Grace Alive - October 2019

Grace of Ch r i s t Pre s by t e r i a n C h u rc h Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo

OCTOBER

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“Love Others Through Drops of Grace”

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Head Pastor — Bill Williamson

THE GRACE OF GIVING

“But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.” 2 Corinthians 8.7 Dear Grace Family, The early Christians were very generous. In Acts 2:46 it says that they had “generous hearts.” The Apostle Paul calls their generosity an “act of grace.” As humans, we are probably not generous by nature. Our tendency is to want to get, more than it is to give away. We may not be hoarders, but we do accumulate more than we probably need. It takes the grace of God to change our hearts. It takes the Holy Spirit to create within us a desire to be a generous people. I believe that is what happened in the early church. They had just received the Holy Spirit, and as a result, it says “they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” – Acts 2:45 Grace of Christ has a history of being generous. However, it’s not because of our human capabilities. It truly is who we are: Grace of Christ. We love God, because He first loved us.

We then are able to give to God and others, because God first gave to us in the offering of His Son Jesus Christ. The gift of Christ was an act of grace. As we then respond, giving back our praise and thanksgiving, as well as our tithes and offerings, that too is an act of grace.

During the month of October, we looked at 2 Corinthians 8-9 to learn from the Christians in Corinth, who were

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encouraged by Paul to “excel in this act of grace.” I heard it once said that we are to strive to outgive God. Of course, that could never happen. God gave us everything through the death of His Son. What God now expects from us is a heart of thanksgiving, a spirit of generosity, an act of grace in giving back to God what already belongs to Him. Yes, October will be the time we talk about Stewardship.

You will be encouraged to not merely keep on giving, but to “excel in this act of grace.” You will not be told to outgive God, but to give according to what God puts on your heart. It’s an act of grace. It’s also an act of worship. It’s not merely giving God ten percent, the common standard for a tithe. It’s about recognizing that everything belongs to God. Stewardship is not about giving a tithe but giving all that we have to faithfully serve God. It’s about availing oneself to God, to be used by Him, even if that means giving sacrificially of our time, talents AND treasures.

It is my prayer, that as you consider what God is asking you to give in 2020, that it will indeed be an act of grace that comes from a heart that is being transformed.

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

In Christ, and because of His Grace, Pastor Bill

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Congregational Care — John Stolzenbach

Fall Cleaning

DON’T FORGET THE CLOSET With fall in the air I am thinking of a ritual around our house as a child that took place every fall. In fact the ritual took place twice a year. It was called Spring and Fall house cleaning. My dad would be in charge of the outside, the yard and the wooden storm windows/screens. On the inside, my mom was cleaning closets and storing summer clothes in boxes in the basement and bring out winter clothes along with doing a thorough house cleaning.

All this got me thinking about Spiritual house cleaning which shouldn’t happen just twice a year, but should be on-going, like a self-cleaning oven. Many of you are familiar with the little booklet by Robert Boyd Munger entitled, My Heart – Christ’s Home, based on Ephesians 3:16-17.

I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

Munger goes through each room of our heart/home; the study, dining room, living room, etc., visualizing Christ interacting with us in each room and the activities that take place in each. But it’s the last area that always gets my attention as Christ says this, “There’s a peculiar odor in the house. Something must be dead around here. It’s upstairs. I think it’s the hall closet.” I’m thinking here of all the things that get thrown in my literal closet and my spiritual closet that I hope no one finds. Munger says he finally, reluctantly hands over the closet to the Lord.

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What about us, you and I? What have we placed in the closet of our hearts hoping no one, especially our Lord, will find? The reality is, He already knows what’s in there. It’s like confession, He already knows what separates us from Him, but He wants us to acknowledge it, and give it over to Him. If your spiritual closet is anything like mine has been at times, it may contain past hurts, mistakes, unforgiveness, a poor image of ourselves based on what others have said about us, or the lies of the evil one. Having recently gone through a personal inventory of my spiritual closet with a valued friend, I was able to do some needed house cleaning.

What about you? Where is the Lord wanting to take your hand and help you seek freedom from those things that keep you stuck in the past? I’m not suggesting going mining, rather allowing the Holy Spirit to bring those things to the surface. Isn’t it time to find a valued friend, or in some cases a professional counselor, or a Sozo prayer team member to come along side you, and clean house? Get rid of what’s weighing you down and holding you back from becoming the man or woman God intended you to be in the first place.

Remember we can either get our image of self from others, OR, we can remember who we are IN CHRIST JESUS: I am GOD’S MASTERPIECE – Ephesians 2:10 I am SAVED BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH – Ephesians 2:8 I am MADE RIGHT WITH GOD – 2 Corinthians 5:21 I am FORGIVEN – Ephesians 1:7 I am a NEW CREATION – 2 Corinthians 5:17

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Stewardship

Sacrificial Giving Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.

But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling His disciples to Him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything – all she had to live on.” – Luke 16:9 There was Jesus, seated beside the offering plate, as many rich people contributed large amounts to the temple. The offerings were an act of devotion; people would give a portion of their money back to God as an act of obedience and as a way to express their dependence upon Him. The culture of the day was for the people to publicly offer their financial gifts to God. When large gifts were given there would be much applause.

Jesus continues to quietly watch how we give. He knows if we give casually, grudgingly or as a thanks offering to God. The widow’s offering teaches us there is simply no excuse for not giving. Christ’s mission in this world benefits greatly from those who give sacrificially, generously and thankfully.

It is a blessing to the church, community and the Kingdom when we, who are entrusted with managing our Master’s affairs and finances, are good stewards.

Jesus saw and valued the large amounts given by the rich people, but our Lord sat quietly until the poor widow dropped two coins, almost nothing, into the box. It was then, Jesus spoke to call His disciples to Himself and use the moment to teach about giving. The seemingly next to nothing offering given by the widow, was in reality everything. The offering of two coins was a sacrifice... and an expression of knowing that all she had was from God. The monetary value of the widow’s offering was so small it likely went unnoticed by those in attendance at the temple. Rather than applause however; what she received were words of praise from the King Himself.

Jesus saw the widow’s offering as the greatest given that day.

“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.

Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” – Hebrews 4:13

Giving sacrificially to God, the widow expressed her complete dependence on God to take care of her. Giving sacrificially, the widow expressed her trust in God to provide what she would need. Giving sacrificially, the widow offered what is most precious to God... herself. Faith was demonstrated as the widow entrusted her life and her destiny to God.

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Does it make a difference in your giving when you stop and consider that our offering is seen by the One who still sits “opposite the place where the offerings were put?” Do you give from the overflow of abundance in your life or are you reaching down to that deep place of sacrifice to give back to God what is from Him? Are you entrusting your life, your comfort, your destiny to God? Have you ever given sacrificially like the widow? Is God calling you to give more than you have been giving in the past? If so, what’s holding you back?

Spend time in prayer asking the Holy Spirit in what manner He would have you give sacrificially to the work of the Kingdom.

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

– Janet Krieger Business Ministry Elder

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

God Has Big And Good Plans For You!

¡Dios Tiene Grandes Y Buenos Planes Para Ti!

Dear brothers and sisters, as Christians, we spend our time thinking and planning our future. Maybe we have our calendar full of events and activities for the next two years. The point here is that we only think of our plans and not of God’s plans for our lives. God wants you to trust Him. He wants you to put all your trust, plans, ideas, dreams, goals, projects, etc. in His hands. Please read the verses of Jeremiah above and pray for Gods help in your personal life and that His perfect will may be accomplished in you.

Como cristianos, pasamos nuestro tiempo pensando y planificando nuestro futuro. Tal vez tenemos el calendario lleno de eventos y actividades por los próximos dos años.

El punto aquí es que solo pensamos en nuestros planes y no en los planes que Dios tiene para nuestras vidas. Dios quiere que confíes en Él; que pongas toda tu confianza, planes, ideas, sueños, metas, proyectos, etc. en sus manos. Lea los siguientes versículos y haga una oración para que Dios le ayude en su vida personal, para que se haga la voluntad del Señor en tu vida.

His word also reminds us that we must first seek His kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) and not to worry so much about tomorrow. (Matthew 6:34).

Su palabra también nos recuerda que debemos buscar primero Su reino y Su justicia (Mateo 6:33) y no preocuparnos tanto por el día de mañana, (Mateo 6:34).

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“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the LORD, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call on Me and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear [your voice] and I will listen to you. Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

“Porque Yo sé los planes y pensamientos que tengo para ti ", dice el Señor," planes de paz y bienestar y no para el desastre, para darte un futuro y una esperanza.

Entonces me invocarás y vendrás y me oraras, y oiré [tu voz] y te escucharé.

Entonces [con un profundo anhelo] me buscarás y requerirás [como una necesidad vital] y [me] encontrarás cuando me busques con todo tu corazón.”

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (AMP)

Jeremías 29:11-13

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

Thank You, Grace Of Christ, For Your Generosity

Gracias Gracia De Cristo Por Tu Generosidad

This year, we have been able to deliver about 80 Bags of Hope that were filled with school supplies to Adams Elementary School. God is good all the time!

Este año, hemos podido entregar alrededor de 80 Bolsas de Esperanza llenas de útiles escolares a la Escuela Primaria Adams. ¡Dios es bueno todo el tiempo!

We also had the opportunity to help with the open house on August 26, where more than 600 people attended despite the strong heat. We were happy to help prepare food and welcome students and their families as they began a new school year.

También tuvimos la oportunidad de ayudar en la jornada de puertas abiertas el 26 de agosto, donde a pesar del fuerte calor asistieron más de 600 personas, estábamos llenos de gozo al ayudar a preparar la comida y de dar la bienvenida a los estudiantes y sus familias al comenzar un nuevo año escolar.

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Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

Please Welcome Adams Elementary’s New Principal Julianna Maxwell

Por Favor Demos la Bienvenida a Julianna Maxwell la Nueva Directora de la Escuela Primaria Adams El Distrito Escolar de Yakima se enorgullece en anunciar la contratación de Julianna Maxwell como directora entrante de la Escuela Primaria Adams. Julianna anteriormente se desempeñó como subdirectora de White Center Heights Elementary y Soos Creek Elementary en el oeste del estado de Washington.

The Yakima School District is proud to announce the hiring of Julianna Maxwell, as the incoming principal for Adams Elementary School. Julianna previously served as the assistant principal of White Center Heights Elementary and Soos Creek Elementary in western Washington state.

Julianna grew up outside of Atlanta, Georgia and attended North Georgia College where she graduated in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science. She relocated to Washington in 2000 where she discovered her passion for teaching and enrolled at City University and obtained a Master’s Degree in Teaching. After nine amazing years of teaching she enrolled in the City University Administrative Certification program. She completed her administrative certification in 2015 and continued into the Ed.D Leadership program where she is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership.

Julianna has a passion for serving students and their families. She has a strong background in instructional leadership and believes that, with the right support, all students are capable of achieving at their level.

Julianna values relationships with students, staff, and families; she feels that these relationships are essential to student learning.

Julianna, and her 14 year old daughter Emily, are excited to relocate to Eastern Washington and look forward to becoming involved members of the school and community. On the weekends they enjoy spending time together and with their three dogs. Julianna also enjoys yoga, listening to live music, and spending time with close friends. Her daughter, Emily, has a passion for horses and looks forward riding in the Yakima sunshine!

Julianna creció en las afueras de Atlanta, Georgia, y asistió a North Georgia College, donde se graduó en 1999 con una licenciatura en ciencias.

Se mudó a Washington en 2000 donde descubrió su pasión por la enseñanza y se matriculó en la Universidad de la Ciudad y obtuvo una Maestría en Enseñanza.

Julianna Maxwell Después de nueve años increíbles de enseñanza, se inscribió en el programa de Certificación Administrativa de la Universidad de la Ciudad. Completó su certificación administrativa en 2015 y continuó en el programa de Liderazgo Ed.D, donde actualmente está trabajando para obtener su Doctorado en Liderazgo Educativo.

Julianna tiene una pasión por servir a los estudiantes y sus familias. Ella tiene una sólida formación en liderazgo educativo y cree que, con el apoyo adecuado, todos los estudiantes son capaces de alcanzar su nivel.

Julianna valora las relaciones con los estudiantes, el personal y las familias; ella siente que estas relaciones son esenciales para el aprendizaje de los estudiantes.

Julianna y su hija Emily, de 14 años, están emocionadas de mudarse al este de Washington y esperan convertirse en miembros involucrados de la escuela y la comunidad.

Los fines de semana disfrutan pasar tiempo juntos y con sus 3 perros. Julianna también disfruta del yoga, escuchar música en vivo y pasar tiempo con amigos cercanos. ¡Su hija, Emily, tiene pasión por los caballos y espera cabalgar bajo el sol de Yakima!

Working for the Kingdom of God, – Pastor Alex Rule 7

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Trabajando para el reino de Dios – Pastor Alex Rule

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Children’s Ministry — Melissa Gray

Requirements for decorating a car: contact Melissa by October 21 with the theme and name of your vehicle (family friendly please), commit to participating on October 30 and have your car ready by 6:00pm that evening, and last, be available to hand out treats or candy and spread the love of Jesus to everyone who stops by your car. For more information, or to RSVP Please contact Melissa at: melissa.gray@yakimagrace.com or 248-7940 x110 Hey Kids, don’t forget to pick up your October Pockets in KidZone for a chance to earn 10 extra tokens to spend at the student store! Also, remember to bring your Bible every Sunday to class to earn an additional token!

OCTOBER MEMORY VERSE

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” – Galatians 5:22-23

OCTOBER LESSONS AT A GLANCE: THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT Oct 6: The fruit of Patience Oct 13: The fruit of Kindness Oct 20: The fruit of Goodness ct 27: The fruit of Faithfulness O (Harvest Party! Wear your costume!)

GRACE KIDS HARVEST PARTY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27

D2–DONUTS & DISCIPLESHIP 4TH AND 5TH GRADE FUN!

D2 continues this month as we work on digging deeper into the weekly lessons, spending time together through fellowship and prayer... and of course eating DONUTS! D2 meets weekly following the 9:00am lesson next door in room 209.

Calling Christmas Pageant Participants! This year Grace of Christ is coming together to present a special Christmas Program that will include all ages from our congregation.

Rehearsals begin Sunday, October 6 with speaking and singing parts available. We are also looking for individuals to help oversee rehearsals, build the set, provide snacks, and assist with other details. Please contact Melissa Gray if you are interested in performing or helping with this special event. The performance will be held on December 15.

Wear your costumes to church (please no toy weapons, scary costumes, or masks) and be ready to celebrate with fun pumpkin themed games and activities at 9am in KidZone.

HARVEST PARTY | 9:00am | KidZone

GRACE FAMILY TRUNK-OR-TREAT NIGHT Wednesday | October 30 6:30-8:30pm Come dressed in your favorite family friendly costumes and enter for a chance to win a prize for the BEST COSTUME and/ or Best Decorated Vehicle!

FREE Dinner in the gym at 6:30 followed by Trunk-OrTreat festivities in the parking lot. This is a great Halloween alternative, or a Halloween warm up for kids who would love to wear their costume more than once.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Preschool — Alli Weide 509.248.7940, ext. 119 Alli@YakimaGrace.com www.yakimapreschool.com

Chapel

October Memory Verse: “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.” Genesis 28:15 Jesus Storybook Bible Story: Daniel and the scary sleepover, from Daniel 6 God rescued Daniel and He would keep rescuing his people. “The time was coming when God would send another brave Hero, who would love God and do what God said – whatever it cost him, even if it meant he would die. And together they would pull off the Greatest Rescue the world has ever known!”

Classrooms

Second Step Social-Emotional Skills for Early Learning Focusing Attention: Using our eyes, ears, and brain to pay attention.

Self-Talk: Talking to ourselves in a quiet voice inside our heads to help us focus and pay attention.

“Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.”

– Samuel Butler This month we take full advantage of the abundant agricultural area that we live in and spend the first couple of weeks exploring apples.

We combine our apple exploration with learning about our 5 senses.

We look, touch, smell, taste, and even hear the differences in a variety of apples! Are certain colors sweeter or crunchier? Yum! The last two weeks we learn about pumpkins. We go on a field trip to Thompson’s Farm in Naches where we get to watch them fire pumpkins out of a cannon, cheer on pigs as they race around a track, and take a hay ride to the pumpkin patch where we get to pick out our very own pumpkins. At the end of the month we dress up in costumes and decorate the pumpkins at our Pumpkin Parties!

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October Numbers: 4, 5, 6, 7 October Color: Orange Color Days: Oct 28th & 29th October Letters (2-Day & 3-Day): H, T, I, U October Letters (Pre-K & K-Prep): NM, JK, LU, VW

PAMPERED CHEF FUNDRAISER! Now – Friday, October 18th Our Pampered Chef fundraiser is running through October 18th! This month you can choose between a FREE Pizza & Crust Cutter or Personal Size Round Stone with any $80 purchase. Catalogs are available around the church or you can order online at www.pamperedchef.com/party/gocpreschool!

Orders ship immediately and directly to you! If you have any questions, feel free to contact Katrine Schraan at: Katrine.schraan@yakimagrace.com

www.pamperedchef.com/party/gocpreschool

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry

All-Church Fall Festival

What a joy to come together for one service of worship and fellowship at the All-Church Fall Fest last month. Despite the threat of rain and competition of a Seahawks game, there was a great turnout for this event with somewhere around 275 people in attendance. Congregants and guests of all Linda Sorenson ages mingled together sharing in the fun. The get-acquainted Bingo game helped facilitate mixing. Derek Smith with his bluegrass gospel songs, Tom Oliva and his magic show, Nathan Gross and the church youth band, bouncy houses, raffle prizes, and great food all added to the festivities. This event was a collaborative effort of many church staffers and volunteers of the Hospitality Ministry Team. As always, there was much time, energy, and volunteer help needed to make this event come about. Thank you to all those who made this event happen!

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Linda Mathews

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry

Thanksgiving Potluck Mark your calendars for the next All-Church Event!

Sunday, November 24th we will gather for a Thanksgiving Potluck. Turkey, potatoes gravy and dressing will be provided. Congregants will provide sides, salads, and desserts. Watch for details in the future weeks.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry “Equipping disciples to love and serve our neighbors” Grace of Christ is a missional church distributing DROPS OF GRACE locally, nationally, internationally and globally.

Loving in the name and power of Christ, Grace of Christ truly has a world-wide impact, changing lives for His Kingdom.

Yakima Union Gospel Mission Team Successfully Summit Rainier

View From Camp Muir

Mount Rainer Summit Crater

After some ten months of discipline – along with mental, spiritual and physical training – the Yakima UGM TEAM have successfully summited Mount Rainier. The feat encapsulated skill, discipline, strength and much courage. Hopefully, you have been following along with their journey (highlighted in Grace Alive) which began this past summer with climbing Mount Aix, then Mount Adams, and then the final summit of Mount Rainier.

Each climb progressively harder and requiring more determination, tenacity and skill. The following is a firsthand summary from one of the athletes and devoted volunteer, Kathy Tierney.

Two climbers weren’t feeling well, another was struggling with health issues, and another had just lost his mother.

She, like the rest of the team, leaned on others when she was feeling weak and held up others when she was feeling strong. “A Rainier image of the body of Christ!” according to Noon.

All 9 climbers from our Yakima UGM climbing team made it to the summit of Mount Rainier and back! As the Ashford Faith Baptist Church sign declares, “You gotta go by Faith to get to Paradise!” Noon Thorne, one of two recovery climbers who summited wishes she could say the climb up and down was easy, but that would be far from the truth. After crossing Ingraham Glacier and scrambling up Disappointment Cleaver, she was exhausted, cold, and afraid. Her rope leader shielded her from the wind and made sure she ate and drank. She realized that others on the team had struggles that might be bigger than hers.

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We had so much support from beginning to end... volunteer porters, Ashford Faith Baptist Church provided housing before the climb, many generous donors, especially Grace of Christ Church, and a welcome from more porters (and fresh food!) as we climbed down from Camp Muir after summiting to avoid incoming bad weather. We are grateful to our team for summiting but even more grateful that we all made it down safely! For those of you who have followed the many hikes and summits that began in November when we began fitness training and monthly climbs up progressively harder peaks, this marks the finale of the UGM’s Climbing out of Homelessness Program 2018-19 and the beginning of lasting friendships and life lessons “on the rope.” We accomplished things with our team that we would and could not do alone. We are forever grateful to this team of beautiful people and to all who helped make it possible.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry YWAM Cambodia Update

Mission Sunday Slated for November 3rd – Taking the Gospel to the World The Missions Team (MMT) will once again be showcasing Grace of Christ’s twenty-plus Mission Organization Partners and Mission Partners on Mission Sunday, November 3rd. Look for our tables and displays in the Garden Room to learn more about the ways that Grace of Christ distributes DROPS OF GRACE locally, nationally, internationally, and globally.

In addition, Garth Gustafson from YWAM (Youth with a Mission) living in Battambang, Cambodia will be presenting a special Mission Sunday message that you won’t want to miss!

Garth Gustafson started working with YWAM in 2002 and in 2005 founded YWAM/ University of the Nations Battambang, Cambodia, where he serves as the Executive Director. Garth also serves as an Elder for the YWAM Movement in Asia helping to serve and support Garth Gustafson over 1,200 in Southeast Asia.

He has a Bachelor degree in Business Management and Sports Administration from Pacific Lutheran University, a Masters Degree in Biblical Studies from the University of the Nations and is currently pursuing a Doctorate degree of Ministry in Leadership and Ministry in the Asian Context with Fuller Theological Seminary. Garth and his wife Caroline have two children, Lyla and Gunner and reside in Battambang. Join us for a free lunch and update on Cambodia and the Phase 2 of our campus development with Garth and Caroline Gustafson on Sunday, November 3rd at 12:30pm in the Gym.

MISSION ORGANIZATION PARTNERS & MISSION PARTNERS Adams Elementary Ministry Yakima Blessings of Hope Philippines, Lani & Michael Johnson Campbell Farm Wapato Christian Health Service Corps, Ryan & Heidi Moultray Creative Access Nation, Egypt CRU: Emily & Nathan McIndoo Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Austyn Chynoweth Gracia de Cristo Restoration Ministry Grace of Christ Church Student Ministries JAARS/Wycliffe Indonesia Living Waters for the World Love, Inc (In the Name of Christ) Mabel Swan Yakima Madison House Project Mercy Yetebon, Ethiopia SIM France, Tim Teusink Sunrise Outreach Center & Camp Hope Trailseekers Monday Program Union Gospel Mission Yakima Whitworth University Spokane Young Life Yakima Young Life Jump Starts, Don Stuber YWAM Cambodia, Garth & Caroline Gustafson YWAM Kona, Aaron & Ronda Barker 13

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry

Sacred Road Ministries COME & SEE Recently, the Mission Ministry Team had the pleasure to meet with Joshua Tsavatewa, the Children’s Ministry Coordinator for Sacred Road Ministries. The goal of Sacred Road Ministries is to unite a growing community of believers who have a passion for God, for each other, for the lost, and who are prepared and equipped to serve the Lord by ministering in the community.

Joshua moved to the Yakama Indian Reservation in the summer of 2010. The reservation sits at the foot of snowcapped Mount Adams and is the largest Indian Nation in the Northwest. It is also one of the largest reservations in the United States with over 10,000 enrolled members. Sacred Road Ministries works to reach the community by providing worship services at Hope Fellowship Church, a children’s ministry, a youth ministry, and an after-school program (Kingdom Kids). The ministry also provides community services, acts of mercy, recruiting events, and organizes service teams that work together for one week at a time.

Helping Those In Need Reflecting back on this past summer, Joshua shared that it was quite a busy and productive summer for Sacred Road Ministries. The ministry takes Isaiah 58 to heart, where the Lord tells His people to “extend themselves” and to “pour themselves out” for their needy and oppressed neighbors so that He will redeem and restore their broken community. Sacred Road spent endless hours repairing and restoring numerous homes in the community and built several Tiny Houses for Village of Hope in Toppenish.

Kid's Club “We hosted a kid's club at two sites on the Yakama Reservation and one on the Warm Springs Reservation, Tsavatewa explained. We ministered to an average of 230 children per day. And, for four weeks, we hosted a day camp at our church building, averaging around forty children daily.”

on Tuesday nights. “Youth Group averages around 70 teenagers and around 25 of those youth in our Discipleship Groups that meet bi-weekly.” Tsavatewa further explains that this is vital in order to rise up leaders in the church.

Preparing for Fall and Winter Gearing up for fall, Tsavatewa acknowledges that Sacred Road has an abundance of indispensable activities and programs on the docket. “Youth Group, Young Life, the after-school tutoring program, Mercy Ministry and Firewood Ministry are all about to get started after a summer break, Tsavatewa states.

“Last year, we delivered 97 cords of firewood and this year we are ready to give out 100-plus cords.” The wood supply is critical when the weather turns cold, providing a source for both heating and cooking. This is yet another example of how this ministry provides acts of service and mercy. “We have some free wood for pick-up and we do some deliveries focusing on single moms, elders, and the poorest in the community.”

Prayer Ministry Teaching

We sense God’s call to increase intercessory prayer in our church. Join us for a light supper and teaching on Thursday, October 24 at 6:00pm in the Garden Room.

Carla Kupp will introduce the topic: Why Do We Pray?

Church Services & Youth Group According to Tsavatewa, Sacred Road offers regular Sunday services throughout the year, and Youth Group 14

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Worship Ministry An Interview with Jason Wickson As Temple Choir’s youngest tenor, I want you to know Jason, or Mr. Wickson as I should say, as my fellow singers do – is a respectful, humble, and jovial man of the Lord whose gift is uplifting others through song. I’m looking for another word, yet I just can’t find it.

and you have an idea and then God has a different plan that ends up working out better than your plan.”

Let’s begin with a brief bio. Jason has always enjoyed singing and listening to music. He realized his voice’s potential in his sophomore year in high school, going on to obtain his bachelor’s at Oakland University, outside of Detroit. To earn his performer’s diploma, he went to Indiana University, where he met his wife, Naomi. After completing his diploma, Jason opted to begin his master’s degree – however, a technical difficulty precluded the offer of a stipend and full assistantship. Instead, Jason received an apprenticeship with Palm Beach Opera and thus sidestepped the onerous burden of student loan debt. Since then, he’s sung in a variety of church choirs and has taken on a myriad of young artist programs and gigs across the states from Chautauqua to Palm Beach and Charlotte to Detroit. Abroad, he’s sung in various events in England, France, Hong Kong, and most recently, an opera in Germany.

Music has taken Jason around the world, but more importantly, music has affected his family “in a lot of ways, more positive than negative, I would say.” Having brought the Wicksons' together, music has also brought them here.

An Othello school’s need for a music teacher led them to live in Moses Lake for a couple of years. A few annum hence, the Wicksons’ are performing and teaching around the Valley and beyond, while Jason completes his master’s at Central and they raise their young daughters Evangeline and Teegan surrounded by Naomi’s family.

“Definitely, we’ve seen God’s plan unfold…including being here at Grace. I mean it's part of God’s plan… You try to plan life and you think that you know what’s going to happen,

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Grace is grateful that His plan has brought them here. As Temple Choir Director, Jason has brought precision and purpose from crisp responses to complex anthems. As a singer himself, he “enjoy[s] being able to help from a singer’s point of view, vocally, on how to make a better tone.”

Beyond his efficient professionalism on display in the choirloft are the affable mirth and humor shown in the choir-room.

He’s a renowned tenor with an impressive resume, but behind the steely face of his performances is a Christian with a love for God, family, and fellowship. Notice how he listens intently in conversation, smiles when leading the hymns, and exudes respect, gratitude, and humility to those around him. He cares about the work we do for the Lord in worship, and he “love[s] the enthusiasm that the choir has for this church and for the music that we sing and being part of the worship here, so that’s refreshing and gives me confidence too that everyone here is really on board and wants… not just to make music but to praise the Lord.” Not only does he look forward to each Sunday, but, in his words, “I think I look forward to Christmas, I think that’s going to be fun, and choosing the pieces. One thing that’s fun for me is kind of having a plan for what we can do and then trying to schedule enough rehearsals that we can tackle some complicated music.” As he has emphasized in the choir room many times before, “I don’t want to call it a product because we’re worshiping, but to be able to present something that’s to the best of our ability and making sure that we have enough time to do that.” There it is. The humble statement complemented with a sense of duty, accomplished with elegant professionalism.

Ah, that sounds right: grace is the word that I’m looking for.

– Conor Lincoln

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp 80th Anniversary Celebration

On Saturday, September 21st, Ghormley gathered together 215 of our closest friends for a wonderful night of celebration, food, testimonies, and sharing about future ministry plans! Ericka Corban did a fantastic job of leading worship, and a wonderful dinner and appetizer spread was provided by D'Lish Catering.

A grand total of $73,000 was raised! For those unable to attend, it is NOT too late to donate, as we are seeking to raise a total of $100,000 in contributions.If you were unable to attend, but would like more information about future Ghormley plans which were shared at the 80th celebration, please contact Ghormley's Executive Director, Joel Whitehead.

Summer 2019

"Summer is now over, and we are praising God for the campers who came to Ghormley this summer. God did amazing work in the lives of so many youth who came to camp. Many campers reported growing in their faith, and hundreds made a decision to follow Christ for the first time!

Our theme this summer was "Your Mission Should You Choose To Accept It" which focused on the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:16-20. Campers learned what it means to be on mission for God, and learned more about their identity in Christ as ones sent out to reach the world with the good news of Jesus!"

Fall Events

This fall, Ghormley will be hosting several events here at camp. Take a look at the information below, and make plans to join us!

Registration and information for all events can be found on our website.

MIDDLE SCHOOL RETREAT is our weekend retreat

for 6th-8th grade students and will be held October 25-27.

Register online!

Online Giving

Online giving is now available! Please visit our Donate page to see what giving opportunities we currently have, and how to get involved. http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/ join-our-team/donate-to-ghormley/

Support Needs

Interested in supporting the ministry of Ghormley? We have a number of projects either in process or that we are raising funds for, so we can begin. If you’d like to know what we’re up to, or how to support the ministry of Ghormley, visit us at: http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-our-team/ donate-to-ghormley/

www.ghormleymeadow.org 16

MT. MEADOW CHRISTMAS (Family Christmas Event) is coming this December! What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than a weekend here at Ghormley devoted just to family and activities to help kick off the Christmas season! Be sure to mark your calendar for the weekend of December 7-8, as this one family experience you won’t want to miss! Online registration will be available beginning October 4th.

Prayer Needs

• Praise God for His amazing work in the lives of campers at Ghormley this summer.

• Pray that God will continue to bless us with groups to fill our non-summer months.

• Pray that relationships will be built, lives changed, and every person who comes to Ghormley Meadow will meet Jesus.

• Pray that the Lord will lead us as we raise funds and embark on several facility improvement projects.

509.672.4311

facebook.com/ghormleymeadow

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Announcements leaves to programs so make sure to stay updated by following on Facebook @ Grace Student Ministries and Instagram @gcpcstudentministries.

Pressing Matters

"The Fork Lifters" May God be with you until we eat again. This is the mantra of our church fellowship. It is the sharing of food that becomes a very real way to draw us into fellowship.

Pastor Emeritus Steve Baker

I was a member of a small group that ate together once a month. We called ourselves "the fork lifters." I received a phone call from one of the wives in the group that didn't want the pressure of preparing a fancy meal. She wanted to serve hot dogs instead. The night of the simple meal arrived. I was blown away by the variety of hot dogs and number of toppings.

That was our first and the last "simple meal" and from then on it was gourmet all the way. I am thankful for the times of celebration that we experience as a church community. Look for ways to gather around the table and enjoy the meal!

Student Ministries Kicking Fall off Right!

The school year is off and running and we are just trying to keep up!

Our first youth group of the year was nice and intimate with a chili dinner and acoustic worship on the lawn.

Our game plan for the fall is to take things down to the studs and focus Ali Hildebrand on our relationships and creating a strong Christian community for our students. If you’d like to get involved in any capacity, just reach out to our transition manager Ali Hildebrand. Things are changing all the time from

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At the end of October, we are trying to send as many of our middle schoolers as possible to Ghormely’s Middle School Retreat (formally known as Slamquest.) To help them get there we are going to attempt to press our own cider and have it available by donation the following Sunday, October 13th in the Garden Room. We say attempt because part of the fun of student ministries is that you never really know how things will turn out! Middle School Retreat is a bright spot in the ministry where you can see a kid who’s on the fence about their faith jump in head first in just a weekend. If you are a parent wanting to sign up your middle school student, make sure to get the promo code from Ali Hildebrand. Sign-ups are on GhormleyMeadow.org.

MOPS Mothers of Preschoolers

1st & 3rd Friday's of the Month, 9am – 12pm MOPS has started their year off with some fun! After the two ladies that were supposed to go to MomCon almost didn’t get to go because of the hurricane, it shifted to be able to get thousands of moms there! They listened to some amazing speakers and brought back some great ideas to include moms and how to help moms face their fears and of course have fun!! They have some great meetings coming up in October and November! If you would like to volunteer with our kids program or even just be a mentor mom, please email or call Danielle Woodcock at 509-312-9883 and we can find a way for you to serve! We are going to spend the year having more fun, fearing less, and finding our people. MOPS meetings are held on the first and third Fridays of the month from 9:30am to noon (with a few exceptions).

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Our Core Values

Glorifying God With Our Best Pioneering and Ongoing Outreach Engaging and Nurturing Relationships Being a Cornerstone in the Community Equipping People for Ministry Through Biblical Foundation and Service

9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 248-7940

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Fri, Oct 4

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

9:15am

Chapel

Moms

Sat, Oct 5

Madison House Work Day

8:00am

Madison House

Everyone

Sun, Oct 6

World Communion

Sanctuary

Everyone

Mon, Oct 7

Worship Ministry Team Meeting

5:00pm

Library

Committee

Tue, Oct 8

Mission Ministry Team Meeting

4:00pm

Adult Ed Room

Committee

Tue, Oct 8

Prayer and Healing Service

6:30pm

Chapel

Everyone

Wed, Oct 9

Foundation Board

7:00am

Library

Committee

Wed, Oct 9

Preschool Board Meeting

12:15pm

KidZone

Board

Thur, Oct 10

Women's Ministry Team Meeting

Adult Ed Room

Committee

Fri, Oct 11

No Preschool Today

Fri, Oct 11

Safety Team Meeting

1:30pm

Library

Committee

Sat, Oct 12

Prayer Shawl Ministry

1:00pm

Garden Room

Knitters

Sun, Oct 13

Stewardship Kickoff

Sun, Oct 13

Cider Press Fundraiser

Mon, Oct 14

Edith Ferry Circle Lunch and Meeting

Mon, Oct 14

Business Ministry Team Meeting

Fri, Oct 18

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

Sat, Oct 19

Quinceniera (Nohelia Garcia)

Tue, Oct 22

Session Dinner and Meeting

Thur, Oct 24

All Morning

4:30pm

All Morning

Garden Room

Everyone

12:00pm

Fireside Room

Women

4:00pm

Library

Committee

9:15am

Chapel

Moms

Sanctuary only

Gracia de Cristo

5:30pm

Garden Rm/KidZone

Elders

Prayer Ministry Dinner and Training

6:00pm

Garden Room

Everyone

Fri, Oct 25

MOPS Leadership Meeting

9:00am

Adult Ed Room

Leader

10/25 - 10/27

Middle School Retreat at Ghormley (register online)

Ghormley

6th-8th graders

Sat, Oct 26

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Garden Room

Knitters

Sun, Oct 27

Commitment Sunday

Sanctuary

Everyone

Sun, Oct 27

Deacon's Meeting

12:30pm

Lounge

Deacons

Wed, Oct 30

Preschool Staff Meeting

12:15pm

KidZone

Teachers

Wed, Oct 30

Family Dinner & Trunk or Treat

6:30pm

Gym / Parking Lot

Everyone

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

9:30am

Chapel

Moms

10:00am - 2:00pm

All Weekend 1:00pm All Morning

NOVEMBER

Fri, Nov 1

Sun, Nov 3

Daylight Savings: Fall Back

Sun, Nov 3

Prayer Sunday / Communion in Fireside Room

All Morning

Sanctuary / Fireside Rm Everyone

Sun, Nov 3

Garth Gustafson (YWAM Cambodia) Preaching

All Morning

Sanctuary

Everyone

Sun, Nov 3

Gustafson YWAM Fundraiser Luncheon

Gym

Everyone

12:30pm

Grace Alive is available in a PDF format on the church web page www.YakimaGrace.com. For inquiries, submissions, omissions, and corrections, contact Ericka in the church office 248-7940 x 100. ericka.clark@yakimagrace.com

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Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Weekday Events MON TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

Overeater’s Anonymous Trailseekers Al-Anon Divorce Care Bible Study Fellowship

10:00am 12:00pm 2:30pm 5:15pm 6:30pm 7:00pm

TUE

9:00-11:30am 9:45am 10:00am 5:30-7:00pm 7:00-8:00pm

Prayer Room Fireside Rm Lounge Sanctuary Sanctuary

Make Appointment Women All Staff Gracia Music Team Men

WED Gracia Women of Prayer Encounter | Youth Group (Dinner too!)

Beth Moore Bible Study (Dinner/Class)

5:30pm 6:30-8:30pm 6:30-7:00pm

Adult Ed Gym Gym/Lounge

Women 6th-12th Grades Women

HUR Bible Study Fellowship T SOZO Prayer Temple Choir

9:00am 5:45pm - 9:15pm 7:00pm

FRI SOZO Prayer MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) (1st & 3rd Fridays)

9:00 - 11:30am 9:30 - 11:00am

SOZO Prayer Women of the Word Bible Study Staff Check-In Meeting Gracia de Cristo Music Rehearsal Gracia Men of Courage

Adult Ed Adult Ed Gym Adult Ed Lounge Sanctuary

Sanctuary Prayer Rm Choir Room Prayer Room Chapel

Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Men

Women Make Appointment Choir Make Appointment Moms

Sunday Services and Events

SUN

Grace Contemporary Worship 9:00am Sanctuary Everyone Sanctuary Everyone Grace Traditional Worship (Led by Temple Choir) 11:00am 1:00pm Sanctuary Everyone Gracia de Cristo (Worship in Spanish) Going Deeper: Genesis 9:30am Adult Ed Adults Golden Circle 10:15am Room 103 Adults Grace Kids 9:00 & 11:00am KidZone Wing 3yrs-5th grade Youth reFUEL 9:00am Youth Rm & Gym 6th-12th grade

Announcements COOKIES FOR SUNDAY!

Thank you for bringing cookies, crackers, fruit, or quick breads for all to enjoy during our fellowship hour on Sunday.

See dates you can contribute – last names beginning with…

SUNDAY

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Oct Oct Oct Oct

6 13 20 27

Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

G-M N - S T-Z A- F

GRACE OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 S 8TH AVENUE YAKIMA, WA 98902 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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