Grace Alive May 2018

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church Yo u r P l a ce To B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e co m e , B l e s s Iglesia Presbiteriana Gracia de Cristo: Un Lugar Para Pertenecer, Creer, Ser y Bendecir

April May 2018

VOL 102 101

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Lead Pastor — Pastor Jim Marian

Thinking Back to Past Seasons I don’t know about you, but Paul seems to be setting the bar pretty high! Allow me to indulge a bit and review some of the “seasons” of my own life: the care-free joys of my childhood, the growth of faith and character in my adolescence, the demands of young adulthood, marriage and my time in preparation through college and seminary.

I love God’s creativity! He didn’t have to make the world as He did. I suppose the weather could have been consistently moderate and the landscape dull and colorless. And maybe there wouldn’t be so many varieties of plants and animals.

Yet God chose to create our world with beautiful, life-giving and ever-changing seasons – four of them to be exact. The cold snowfall of winter, the fresh renewal of spring, the activity and heat of summer and the changing colors of autumn. And just like plants need all four seasons to grow and thrive, so do we.

Seasons of Joy & Heartache Each season of life brings with it joy and heartache, opportunities and challenges. The Apostle Paul knew the good times as well as the bad, and yet he was somehow able to put it all into perspective… to learn and grow in his walk with Jesus. I’ve often thought of Paul’s words in the Book of Philippians, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” (Phil. 4:11b-13) Paul was also the guy who said, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

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Then there’s the season of raising my kids and sharing their victories, struggles and praying for strength as one rebelled against God and family. There were churches served, books published, songs written and conferences led. There were seasons of great joy on family vacations and celebrations of high school and college graduations. There were also seasons of loss as I buried both my parents and many of my uncles, aunts and cousins. And now I have the privilege of entering a new season of life… making new friends and serving the Lord at Grace of Christ in the beautiful State of Washington. And the adventure continues…

Be Encouraged How about you? What season of life do you find yourself in?

Are you able to see the sunshine through the clouds? Are you able to find a smile, even through the tears? Are you able to say with Paul, that because of my relationship with Jesus, “even when I am weak, then I am strong?”

No matter the season God has us in, I want to encourage you with the example of the great missionary: learn to be content no matter the situation, rejoice always, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus… and for me too!

Grateful to be sharing this season of life with you, my Grace of Christ family, Jim Marian, Lead Pastor

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Associate Pastor of Congregational Care & Church Administration — Pastor Cindy Shively

Dear Grace of Christ Family, I am filled with emotion, both joy and sadness, as I write this last article as your Associate Pastor. It was just about 5 years ago that I began the journey of interviewing, receiving a call, and coming to Yakima. Mostly I am overwhelmed with gratitude for your love and support of me and my family, and for your faithfulness in serving the Lord, through our Grace of Christ Church family, in the Yakima Valley, and around the world.

Paul’s words describe my gratitude well. I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-6).

As a church family, we have been through lots of changes these past five years, changing denominations, staff changes, ministry changes, life changes, building changes, but through it all God’s love and faithfulness never change. Romans 13:8 reminds us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:14-19).

3. Continue to Be Faithful. Our Grace of Christ Family is one of the most loving, faithful church families I have ever seen, giving generously of time, talent and resources. Whether helping with ministries inside the church (volunteering with Children, Youth, Deacons, Elders, Group Leaders, Hospitality, Administration, Worship, Music, Media, Pastoral Care, and a plethora of other ministries), or in the community (helping those who are struggling in myriad of ways), our church family has a faithful heart of love and serving for the Lord.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17).

As I reflect on how I’d like to encourage our church family for the future, three things come to mind.

1. Continue to Be Thankful. No matter what life brings our way (the Bible promises we’ll have trouble), trust God is still in the middle of it all, wrapping us all in His Love, because God is love (1 John 4:8). And, we can even glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. (Romans 5:3-5). So no matter what happens, we can relax in God’s love and peace, and be thankful.

2. Continue to Be Expectant. God has blessed us abundantly in the past and present, and we can be assured He will continue to do so in the future. It’s who God is – our loving, giving, Heavenly Dad. He longs for each of us to grow in our love and understanding of being His loved child, and then allow that love to overflow to others. Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians, is mine for each of us today. For this reason, I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power

I will always be grateful to God for the gift of my years at Grace of Christ, and I pray the Lord will continue to bless us all to be a blessing.

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21) With love and gratitude, Pastor Cindy Shively

Yo u r P l a c e t o B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e c o m e , B l e s s

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

STEWARDSHIP Stewardship “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven...” – Ecclesiastes 3: 1 “So pay close attention to how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise. Make the most of your time...” – Ephesians 5:15-16 Time began when God created the world and is His precious gift given to us.

“Time is a fragment of eternity given by God to mankind as a solemn stewardship and one day God will call each one of us to give account of how we have used it.”

– Brian Russell

It is also important we invest time in our church family. Each one of us in the Body of Christ has a gift to share that has been given to us by God. Management, or stewardship, of our time should allow us to meet together on a regular basis for fellowship, worship and service, building each other up in our faith and then reaching out to bless our community.

Participation in a growth group during the week, giving the gift of our time to help with music, children’s or youth ministry, caring for one another by praying, and sharing a meal are all opportunities to grow and bless each other.

Spending Time with God

“Time is not a commodity that can be stored for future use. It must be invested hour by hour or else it is gone forever.”

– Thomas Edison

Being a good steward of time is knowing how to balance our time and divide it between all of life’s responsibilities.

Our Personal Time Much of our personal time is spent in work. As believers, our work is full of value and purpose. In all we do we are working for God and His glory. Our best should be given in our work whether it be in Christian ministry or the mission of the jobs in which we serve our community and earn a paycheck. We should guard against making any division between what is sacred and what is secular.

In addition to the time spent in fellowship and worship with our church family, it is important for each of us to set aside time to draw close to our Father in private worship. God deeply desires we spend time with Him reading His Word, listening for His voice, and sharing our life in prayer. Our time spent with Him is our very best investment.

So... time is precious and Scripture tells us to make the most of every minute. My personal prayer is that I am a faithful steward of the time God has given me. My heart’s desire is to one day hear from my King “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Janet Krieger Elder Business Ministry

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Colossians 3:23 As believers employed as an engineer, doctor, nurse, teacher, builder, policeman, or truck driver... we can serve as a witness of Jesus by the way we do our work and by the way we relate to those with whom we work.

Our personal time must also be balanced with time to recreate or remake us. Our minds and bodies need rest and renewal. For believers setting aside time to worship God, hear His Word and belong to His family is important.

Sharing Our Time with Others Building a healthy marriage, family life and friendships is a responsibility that takes time and is a precious investment God desires for each of us to pursue.

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Foundation Our Grace of Christ Foundation is dedicated

to expanding church ministry by administering assets and funding projects of Grace of Christ. Last fall we shared in Grace Alive the rejuvenation projects which happened around our church building that foundation helped support. Now, we’d like to share how the Grace of Christ Foundation has recently impacted a couple of people with college scholarships.

I was blessed to be a recipient of a generous scholarship from the Foundation. Their assistance in helping me pursue my Masters in Camp Administration at Touro University Nevada allowed me the freedom to pursue the degree that I felt would best enhance my skills and leadership in my work at Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp. Because of their support, I was able to complete my Joel Whitehead degree program and obtain the GCP Foundation skills necessary to be prepared Scholarship Recipient for the role of Executive Director at Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp.

Grace of Christ Foundation has blessed me tremendously over the last 4 years while I was going to school at Whitworth University. This school would not have been within reach without the generosity of the people who have donated to this foundation. I am now working as an Athletic Trainer at a high school. Grace of Christ Foundation has made this career possible for me!

Blessings, Katelyn Hansen

Katelyn (Alderman) Hansen GCP Foundation Scholarship Recipient

I would encourage people to give to the Grace of Christ Foundation because it is vital in helping individuals pursue kingdom-minded work and leadership. Financially speaking, the Foundation helps make possible what would otherwise be impossible or significantly more difficult. I will forever be grateful to the Foundation for their support!

– Joel Whitehead Recently, with the financial help of the Foundation, Joel has been able to further his education in Camping Ministries. This has helped him be a more effective Director in his day to day duties.

But more importantly, his education has given him insight on how to prepare for things to come in the camping arena, which will help Camp Ghormley thrive for generations to come.

– Barney Trick

Yo u r P l a c e t o B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e c o m e , B l e s s

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En Español

Gracia de Cristo Leadership Team

Gracia de Cristo Equipo de Liderazgo

Our GDC Leadership Team meets weekly. The team consists of Alex Rule, Jake Kupp, Rich Millet, and John Stolzenbach.

We have recently moved our meeting to Sundays to include leaders from Gracia de Cristo. It was felt that the Leadership Team should reflect the community of Gracia de Cristo and the numbers doubled! The team now includes: Aurora Rule, Javier and Gloria Valencia, Bladimir Rivera and Edith Figueroa. Others are praying about being part of the leadership team. We are excited to see what God is doing and what He will reveal in the future.

Outreach Camp 2018 At Ghormley Meadow

Outreach Camp’s theme this year will be “I am a Follower of Jesus.” There will be an opportunity for the congregation to help the camp with prayers and financial support. We will also need teachers/mentors, helpers, and other support people necessary to run the camp which will be June 15th-17th. Your participation in this camp is vital to the spiritual and academic growth of our children at Adams Elementary School.

Nuestro equipo de GDC se ha estado reuniendo semanalmente. El equipo está formado por Alex Rule, Jake Kupp, Rich Millet y John Stolzenbach. Hemos llegado a un acuerdo para mover nuestras reuniones a los domingos, y el 11 de marzo de 2018 ya hemos comenzamos nuestra primera reunión con los líderes Gracia de Cristo. Se consideró que el Equipo de Liderazgo debería reflejar la comunidad de Gracia de Cristo y los líderes naturales de nuestra comunidad, y como se pueden imaginar, el número se incrementó al doble.

El equipo ahora se reúne los domingos a las 11:00 A.M. y ha invitado a unirse al equipo a los siguientes: Aurora Rule, Javier y Gloria Valencia, Bladimir Rivera y Edith Figueroa.

Otros están orando para ser parte del equipo de liderazgo.

Estamos emocionados de ver lo que Dios está haciendo y lo que revelará en el futuro.

Campamento de Alcance 2018 en Ghormley Meadow

El tema de Outreach Camp este año será "Soy seguidor de Jesús." El plan de estudios se está escribiendo actualmente. Habrá, como ha sucedido en años anteriores, una oportunidad para que la congregación ayude al campamento con oraciones y apoyo financiero.

Pronto comenzaremos a reclutar maestros / mentores, ayudantes y a otras personas de apoyo necesarias para dirigir el campamento, que será del 15 al 17 de junio.

Su participación en este campamento es vital para el crecimiento espiritual y académico de nuestros niños en la Escuela Primaria Adams.

Words From Celic Reynoso “God tells me that the war is not mine, that I have to remain calm, that I must also have a lot of faith, that I only need to focus on my constant prayer and to praise Him every day of my life.

He always comes out victorious.”

Palabras de Celic Reynoso “Dios me dice que la guerra no es mía, que debo mantener la calma, que también debo tener mucha fe, que solo necesito concentrarme en mi oración constante y alabarlo todos los días de mi vida. Él siempre sale victorioso.”

I want to share a devotional that spoke to Celic; it is out of Our Daily Bread. See page 7.

Yo quiero compartir el próximo devocional de Nuestro Pan Diario que nos habla sobre Celic Reynoso. Ver la página 7.

Trusting God’s faithfulness can dispel our fearfulness.

With the Love of Christ, Pastor Alex Rule 6

Confiar en la fidelidad de Dios disipa nuestros temores.

Con el Amor de Cristo, Pastor Alex Rule

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Gracia de Cristo / English

En EspaĂąol

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Yo u r P l a c e t o B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e c o m e , B l e s s

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Preschool — Rhonda Cardona 509.248.7940, ext. 119 Rhonda@YakimaGrace.com www.yakimapreschool.com

Grace of Christ Preschool thanks everyone for the support!

Over these years of being a ministry of this church, we have been blessed by you in your support. This year is no different! We want to thank you for your financial support and your prayers of support. Recently you have supported us through our calendar and card sales, our Christmas See's Candy, and most recently our Scholastic Book Fair.

And of course, your ongoing support through donations for our scholarship, Bible fund and Higher Grounds Coffee stand. WE ARE BLESSED! Thank you seems inadequate, but please know that it is sincere. We continue to need your support as the tuition we charge does not cover all of the expenses of bringing this ministry to families in our valley. Our scholarship fund is in great need for the upcoming school year. Your donation will help someone send their child to preschool who would otherwise not be able to do so.

2018-19 Preschool Registration Update!

We offer classes for 3 year olds, 4 year olds, and PreKindergarten classes. We are quickly filling up so be sure and don’t wait too long to register.

Please share our information with everyone!

Call for information today and schedule a time to come and see our top rated classrooms and teachers in action.

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Student Ministry

— Thomas Sudbury

This Month WE NEED YOU!

Hey everyone! The Wash-A-Thon 2018 is happening this month and WE NEED YOU to make this successful! We are in need of 200 volunteers to make this happen! We cannot do it without you! On May 20th, we are going to try and wash 1,000 CARS starting at 4pm.

HERE IS WHERE YOU COME IN! WE ARE IN NEED OF:

50 6 4 10

Adult Leads Persons

for each of the 50 wash teams

to help with traffic marking down cars

Persons

as they come in and go out

Persons

set-up & various jobs happening during the time

(I think this will be a great time to help out students at Grace of Christ see that big things can happen when we work together! If you are interested in helping, contact Thomas, Austyn or Ericka and we will get you connected!)

WE ARE ALSO IN NEED OF SPONSORS! This can be a Business or Individual!! Each student is looking to raise the most money so if you choose to sponsor one of them, they will be closer to winning the Grand Prize: A NEW CAR! The way it works is simple: you decide how much per car you will pay us to wash and at the end we will contact you with how many cars it was, and collect the sponsorship money. Our goal is to wash 1,000 cars, so if you donate 1 cent per car, and we wash all 1,000 cars, it would be $10. Or you could donate $10 a car and it would be $10,000!!! We are also looking for corporate sponsorship, so if you own a business and would like promotion, contact Thomas to learn more! Our goal is to raise enough money to support the Student Ministries for Camp, Missions, and Outreach!

School Is Almost Over!

I know most of our youth are looking forward to the end of the school year. It is a time for more freedom, a time to rest, and a time to have great adventures! Our church is currently in a sermon series that focuses on seasons in life, and for many students, these times are the start of great changes. Many get ready to transition to new schools, meet new friends, try new things, and define who they are in new ways. I know for me one of the most life forming times happened when I went to summer camp. This new season for them could have life long impact on their lives. I encourage parents to take time to invest in their kids during this time. In Deuteronomy 6 it says “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Maybe you can go on a hike and talk about God's creation, or choose one day a week to read scripture as a family. Talk to your kids about God's plan in their lives and help them to find answers to big questions. I know it feels like this time upcoming should be a break for everyone, but don't let this be a time you break from God. Show your family that your faith is important to you not just in word but in action. Although I do not get many weekends off myself, I always try to make sure that our family attends church even on our vacations. It gives them a new experience in worship and shows them that I value meeting as a congregation with fellow believers.

Thankful For Our Congregation

I wanted to say thank you for all of the support you give our youth and our team here at the church. I really feel like our church values youth and the ministry that we are doing here.

We are seeing many youth coming and even when we do crazy things like have an all night youth event at the church that goes into Sunday morning you are excited to see the youth. I know anytime I am in need, there are many people willing to step up and support us! From the bottom of my heart, Thank You Church for all you do!

Yo u r P l a c e t o B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e c o m e , B l e s s

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Children’s Ministry — Melissa Gray Day 4 – Guac: Sometimes we iguanas

Sail Away with us this Summer at Shipwrecked VBS! JUNE 25-29 NEW this year, volunteer applications are available online. Visit YakimaGrace.com/vbs to join the VBS fun, and to help make VBS the best week of the summer for kids as they discover that Jesus rescues when life gets stormy. Online registration begins April 29th during our VBS kickoff.

Stop by the Shipwrecked display in the Garden Room to pick up your VBS T-Shirt and find out more about how you can make a difference in the life of a child at VBS this summer. Both youth and adult registration packets are available as needed.

If you are a youth volunteer (must be entering 6th grade) you can use your hours serving in VBS as volunteer hours required for school. Adult volunteers, don’t forget that we provide free childcare for your infants and toddlers, as well as a free VBS class for 3 year olds.

Introducing Our Shipwrecked 2018 Bible Buddies Day 1 – Hope: We jaguars are

pretty big stuff! We’re the largest cats in the Americas and third largest in the world (just behind tigers and lions). That’s grrrreat! Even though we tend to roam alone, I’ll help everyone remember that WHEN YOU’RE LONELY… JESUS RESCUES!

Day 2 – Beacon: If you didn’t

catch a peek at my fabulous feathers up in the trees, you can’t miss my voice.

We toucans are some of the noisiest jungle birds! Our noises help us keep track of each other always so we don’t worry about each other. Jesus always keeps track of you, so remember that WHEN YOU WORRY… JESUS RESCUES!

Day 3 – Rae: Because we’re so big in size, manta rays

also have the biggest brains of any fish!

But even with my size and smarts, I can still run into huge struggles in the giant ocean. Hard times happen to everyone, and WHEN YOU STRUGGLE… JESUS RESCUES!

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mess up and do wrong, and it costs us our tails – yikes! But God made us so that when we mess up and lose our tails, we can grow back new ones. You’ll do wrong sometimes, but God has a plan full of forgiveness and new chances for you, too. WHEN YOU DO WRONG… JESUS RESCUES!

Day 5 –Moe: We sloths are slooow-

moving, and sometimes that gets us into trouble where we aren’t safe. There are things all of us just can’t do, but WHEN YOU’RE POWERLESS… JESUS RESCUES!

Upcoming “Prepare for VBS” Dates!

ONLINE REGISTRATION: begins April 29 VBS DECORATING PARTY: Sat, May 19, 9am–Noon, Garden Rm VBS GYM DECORATING PARTY: Sat, June 9, 9 am–Noon, GYM ALL VBS VOLUNTEER MEETING: 2 pm Youth Volunteers & 3 pm VBS!! June 25-29, 4 years old- 5th grade, VBS CELEBRATION SUNDAY FUNDAY! Sunday, July 1st 9 am–Noon, North Lawn!

GRACE KIDS!

Join us this summer as we continue digging into the Bible each Sunday morning! We have been on many Bible Adventures this year as we have worked our way through the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi.

This summer we will continue our Bible Exploration as we travel through the New Testament all the way to Revelation with hands on lessons and games! Come join the FUN!

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

T H A N K

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U Y O

Thank You Pastor Cindy Shively!

By the time Pastor Cindy “Shively retires at the end of May 2018, we will have served together at Grace of Christ for 15 months – way too short a time, yet grateful for every day we ministered together!

And now a personal word: Cindy, you are a mature follower of Jesus Christ, seeking our Lord in prayer, discovering His will through His Word and loving His people with grace, joy and compassion.

You are a gifted teacher and preacher, I always learned and grew from your messages on Sunday mornings.

You are a loving shepherd, always concerned with the entire flock, not just a selected few. You and Norm have a heart for those who need Jesus as Savior—thank you for starting Alpha groups in your own home to share your faith with others.

And during times of tension, disagreement or misunderstanding, you always kept a cool head and were typically the voice of reason. You have the courage and spine to hold others accountable and the compassion to stand beside grieving widows.

You have served the local church for years with faithfulness and integrity. I believe you will hear the Lord say to you one day, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

I consider it a privilege to have had the opportunity to serve alongside you at Grace of Christ. I pray God’s very best for you and Norm as you enter this next Season of Life… may your grandchildren increase, as well as the fish on your line!

In Christ’s love, Jim Marian

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HAPPY RETIREMENT PASTOR CINDY SHIVELY! Yo u r P l a c e t o B e l o n g , B e l i e v e , B e c o m e , B l e s s

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

T H A N K ALPHA

It was really great having Cindy, who has been trained “through Seminary, to just keep us on track. She was a great asset to our group having had experience with ALPHA in the past. Sooo appreciate her stepping in, along with Norm, to continue experiencing our great ALL Powerful God in transforming lives!

Eric and Nancy Gustafson

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ADULT MINISTRY

Sensitive to all ages & interests, Pastor Cindy has “been continually influential in encouraging adults in

worshiping God, strengthening their faith & following the inspiration of Christ.

With an eye for studies designed to reinforce faith and enhance knowledge of the Bible, she carefully helps evaluate the foundations for Bible studies making sure they are a bigger part of the spiritual journey. Her knowledge & experience have been invaluable!

”

Peggy Schaffer

DEACONS

and I want to thank Cindy Shively for her direction “andLouhelp with the Deacons during her time here at Grace of Christ. She is a wonderful person to work with, as she is calm, organized and always has a smile on her face. She is never in a hurry and always has a few minutes to talk about how things are going in your life. Cindy always has a method to accomplish what needs to happen, but in a quiet manner. Lou and I want to wish Cindy and Norm a wonderful retirement. We are sure they will continue to advance the Lord’s kingdom wherever they go.

Lou and Ellen Bartelli

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HOSPITALITY MINISTRY

charge to remember to see each person as “a Cindy's precious gift from God helped to set the tone for

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U Y O GROWTH GROUPS

are thankful for Cindy sharing her passion for people “toWeconnect and grow together. A couple of years ago she had a vision and gathered a group of people (way before Growth Groups started), this is a great example to me and many others on how to grow in your faith but how to also grow together as friends. Community is important in this world we live in. It’s is important to have a community to share in great times, but also in sadness. I also admire how Cindy lets this congregation love on her through her toughest and joyous times. Cindy, you will be leaving a special mark on Grace of Christ!

Jana Alderman

LIVING WATERS FOR THE WORLD

One of the things that makes Cindy exceptional is her “willingness to open herself to the needs of others. At a

time of loss, Cindy chose to use the money given as a memorial to her late husband, Reverend Gregory Carter, to install two water purification systems at Compassion International sites in Guatemala. The people within these communities were deeply moved by the reality that in the midst of her family’s pain, they would choose to give to others. As a result, hundreds of people now have access to clean drinking water. Cindy is a person of deep compassion who consistently puts love into action.

Jim and Kathy Bricel

Linda Sorenson and Linda Mathews 12

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MISSION MINISTRY TEAM

We want to express our gratitude, for all the years of “dedication as a Pastor and spiritual leader for our church, the Mission Ministry Team and the Hispanic Congregation Gracia de Cristo. Cindy is a natural leader, and her wisdom and knowledge helped us to serve the local and global missions, also to keep us moving in God’s direction. May God bless you and keep you strong in your faith forever.

Pastor Alex Rule, Mission Ministry Team and Gracia de Cristo

Hospitality Ministry Team. It reflects her own humble and God-centered heart for people and her compassionate and thoughtful ways of ministering to others.

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HAPPY RETIREMENT PASTOR CINDY SHIVELY! Ya k i m a G r a c e . c o m

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Prayer Ministry

MOPS

Prayer Testimonies

Our Prayer Ministry testimony this month comes from our children’s department. Melissa Gray sat down with some Grace Kids members to talk about prayer. Here are their wise thoughts.

MOPS

We are coming to an end of our 2017-18 MOPS season at Grace of Christ with only 2 meetings left(5/4 & 5/18) and what a blessing this season has been. This year we have focused on these three key points.

LET LOVE BE THE LOUDEST VOICE

BE GUTSY GO FIRST

So with that I encourage everyone to continue these through summer. Just because our season of meeting is over doesn't mean our season to be "Free Indeed" is. So until Fall when we resume, I leave you with this verse, Luke 4: 18-19.

Those wanting to get involved in the women's ministry of MOPS and help grow in your faith while doing motherhood alongside other women please contact Megan Nelson, megananelson@yahoo.com

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What is prayer/how would you explain it to someone who has never prayed before?

Asking God for help. Speaking to God. A way to speak to God privately.

When do you pray?

When in doubt. When you need something.

To thank God for anything, anytime.

During tough times.

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Have you ever had a prayer answered?

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Yes! I asked God to help some friends who weren’t getting along. They started getting along again and God answered my prayer. I felt great!

Has God ever spoken to you during prayer?

Yes, He called my name.

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What advice would you give someone who is having trouble talking to God? Read the Bible. Keep talking to Him. Keep praying.

Healing Prayer Healing Gathering In March and April, we held prayer healing services in the Grace of Christ Chapel. At each of the two meetings, Pastor Cindy began with scriptures and testimonies about God's work as a healer. Then, we met in small groups to pray for healing. Healing comes in many shapes and sizes - actual physical restoration, a word from God, or even a revelation of an area that needs forgiveness. In our gatherings, we have evidence of all types of healing.

I have a personal testimony of God healing me through a diagnosis. About eight years ago, I was very ill and suffered terrible panic attacks - sometimes several in one day. No doctor or counselor was able to pinpoint what was causing it. After more than a year of this, I gave up trying to get better. I didn't care if I lived anymore. My parents wanted their pastor friends to pray for me. I went just to please my parents. The pastor's wife had God tell her the word "allergy" for me even the day before I went to see them. I didn't feel any different from their prayers, but I acted on the word "allergy" and asked a naturopath to test me thoroughly for allergies. My results came back overwhelmingly clear that I have Celiac disease. The naturopath said, "Whoever prayed for you heard correctly! When I look at these blood results I would say this is a person who can't get out of bed at all. It's amazing that you're even functioning somewhat. Your body is begging for help." In the years since, God has brought me healing through radical diet changes and getting free from an unhealthy relationship. It has been a long process, but I absolutely testify that God is my loving, good Healer!

Our hope is that our community would experience God's healing touch in radical ways. Our next prayer healing service will be Tuesday, May 8 at 7:00pm in the Chapel.

– Brooke Arkills

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry

Campbell Farm Loving Our Neighbors as Ourselves Located on the Yakama Indian Reservation in Wapato, WA, this 40 acre farm was willed to the Central Washington Presbytery in 1978. Campbell Farm is an outreach to the Wapato community where approximately 95 percent of the population lives in dire poverty. Through their multiple programs, Campbell Farm tries to meet the food and clothing needs of their immediate and surrounding community in addition to supporting the educational needs of this at-risk population.

For the past 15 years, the Campbell Farm has successfully organized and operated a strong children’s program. This includes the following: • After-school Cultural Enrichment Program Offering mentoring, tutoring and meals for youth throughout the school year. Presently, some 30 students attend on a regular basis.

the challenges of food scarcity issues. This summer will be the eighth year that Campbell Farm is acting as the host site for the Washington State Child Nutrition Program. All food is prepared at the Campbell Farm commercial kitchen and is then transported to the multiple feeding sites.

Once again, Grace of Christ has the opportunity to support Campbell Farm through our BAGS OF HOPE ministry. Your generosity helps to stretch the outreach of The Campbell Farm to meet vital needs of this community.

There are also many ways that you can provide volunteer service at the Farm. Contact information: The Campbell Farm, 2527 Campbell Road, Wapato, WA 98951; phone 509-877-6413; or email campbellfarm3@hotmail.com.

HERE IS THE BAGS OF HOPE SHOPPING LIST! TOILET PAPER

SHAMPOO

PAPER TOWELS

CONDITIONER

PLASTIC SPOONS & FORKS

GLUE

KLEENEX

CRAFT PAPER

• Summer Youth Camp – Children are provided breakfast and lunch and are organized into age groups to learn about sustainability and farming.

Crafts and games emphasize recycling, gardening, weeding and harvesting crops. Some also participate in the canning and freezing of the harvested foods. Many children help care for the animals by feeding and watering them. Last year, over 75 kids participated in this camp.

DURABLE PAPER PLATES

MARKERS

PLASTIC CUPS

CRAYONS

CLOROX WIPES

HOT GLUE GUNS

• Summer Feeding Program – Throughout the summer months, meals are provided to housing projects in three sites: Campbell Farm, Wapato Community Center, and an isolated location close to Harrah. These meals help to nourish and to alleviate

TOOTHPASTE

• Youth Leadership – Leadership skills and training are provided to older youth in order to address the challenges and stresses of growing up into adulthood.

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GALLON BAGS QUART-SIZE BAGS SANDWICH BAGS YARD-SIZE GARBAGE BAGS TOOTHBRUSHES

Bags of Hope Kick-Off – May 27 Return Filled Bags – JUNE 10

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Hospitality Ministry Hospitality Ministry Team A huge “THANK YOU!” to all those who helped extend a smile and hand welcome, to greet, to usher, to decorate, to serve others during the Easter celebrations. New guests stopped by and picked up a Welcome Packet. People had fun taking pictures at the “We Love Our Peeps!” photo wall. Our newly trained youth baristas were in place as extra help on Sundays. The welcome of the love of Jesus was evident in this place!

Duncan and Crisann McRayde enjoyed an out-of-town visit from their son Don and his children, Eleanor and Henry.

RuthAnn Laurvick using her newly attained skills as a barista.

Dustin and Erika Dore family being greeted by Mike Sorenson and Steve Stermolle on Easter morning.

Coming Events Grace of Christ Church has the privilege of hosting the ECO Presbytery of the Northwest Conference Annual Meeting on May 4th and 5th. As hosts, we are looking for a few volunteers to help for short periods of 45-90 minutes at various times during this event, i.e. greeters, registration table help, lunch buffet workers, servers and kitchen clean up help to aid Gracia de Cristo team who will provide an authentic Mexican dinner on Friday night. It should be a fun and informative event with some great speakers, including our own Pastor Jim. If you are available to lend a hand for about an hour or more anytime during this event, please contact Linda Mathews at 509-3885527 or Linda Sorenson at 509-834-1185 for more details.

Chris Martin assists as a crossing guard for those using the overflow parking on Easter.

Parking Greeters New at Easter was the initiation of parking lot greeters. It was wonderful to have people in the back parking lot to welcome, a crossing guard to greet and assist those who parked at the hospital, and to have those warm smiles and helpful hand to aid those getting out of cars and with wheelchairs and walkers at the front pull up. It is desired to continue to have parking greeters on a weekly basis and plans are underway to have this happen – But, this can’t happen without YOUR support! Please consider taking a turn as a parking lot greeter!

A Celebration of Pastor Jim’s One Year Anniversary will take place on Sunday, May 6th. Words of installation will be given during both the 9:00 and 11:00 services with receptions to follow each service. Look around; we definitely have something to celebrate!

A Celebration of Pastor Cindy’s Retirement will take place May 20th. Come and help celebrate Cindy’s years of ministry! A reception will be held after the 9:00 and 11:00 services. Although she is leaving the formal position as our associate pastor, Cindy and Norm will remain a part of our congregation. They will continue to make Grace of Christ their home church as they begin their retirement activities together and explore what serving God will look like in their retirement years. (Dr. Shively is also retiring as well!)

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Ghormley Meadow Christian Camp

Fred Meyer Rewards

Ghormley recently became an official Fred Meyer community rewards member (#84874)! Help send kids to camp just by shopping. All funds donated go towards our general scholarship fund. Want to join? Simply visit our website: http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-ourteam/donate-to-ghormley/

Online Giving

We are thrilled to be launching a new website this spring! We would love for you to check it out and provide us feedback.

Visit us at www.ghormleymeadow.org to see more.

We’re excited to announce that online giving is now available through our website! Please visit our Donate page to see what giving opportunities we currently have, and how to get involved. http://www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-ourteam/donate-to-ghormley/

Camp Preview Day

Support Needs

New Website

We are excited to host our first-ever camp preview day, on June 9th! Come meet our 2018 summer staff, tour camp, enjoy a few camp activities, and eat a BBQ on the Meadow!

To RSVP, please visit our website, or call us at:

509-672-4311

Prayer Needs

Suggested Donation: $10 All proceeds go to summer camp scholarship fund.

• Pray that God will continue to bless us with groups to fill our 2018 calendar.

2018 Camp Registration

Registration for summer camp 2018 is now open! For more information, visit us at: www.ghormleymeadow.org/ summercamp/

Summer Staff Hiring

We’re hiring! We’ve begun our search for those who God is calling to serve at camp this summer. We have many needs, and a variety of types of positions remain available. If you’re thinking about joining our team, don’t delay, apply today!

For more information on summer jobs, visit us at: http:// www.ghormleymeadow.org/join-our-team/collegesummerstaff/

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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/

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

• Ghormley has hired a fundraising consultant to help us build a future vision and development plan.

Please pray for God's direction in this very important process!

• Pray that God will lead us to the right staff members He desires to serve at Ghormley this summer.

509.672.4311

facebook.com/ghormleymeadow

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Extended Worship - Chapel On Sundays we are offering a worship opportunity following the 9:00 service starting at 10:30AM. This will serve both as an early start of 10:45 service as well as to provide an option for those who would like to have an extended time of worship on Sunday mornings. You can come at 9 (sanctuary) and stay for the 10:30 worship (Chapel) (goes until about 11:15) or come at 10:30 and hear the message afterward!

Retirement Home Worship Services Team A couple times a month we provide worship and a talk for various Retirement Homes in Yakima. Our team is looking for piano players to help with worship. If you are interested, please contact the church!

MEALS OF GRACE FOR CAMP HOPE Thanks to all of YOUR HELP, we have been able to provide a meal at Camp Hope each week throughout the late winter and all of spring! There is still a great need for help with meals for May and June. If you and your family or growth group would like to serve on a Thursday – please contact Kiki Graf, 509-930-0906.

BAPTISM SUNDAY Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13 will be Baptism Sunday. If you would like to have your child baptized, please contact Jana Alderman (by May 7) at the church, 248-7940 or Jana@yakimagrace.com.

CLOTHING EXCHANGE Our annual Clothing Exchange is set for Saturday, May 19 in the gym. Doors open at 9:00am! You don’t need to bring donations – just come shop – for free! We will start collecting donations Sunday, May 13. (Not earlier as we do not have storage!) This is a great event, known throughout the city. Come shop or come and help – we can always put you to work folding clothes, assisting people as they shop, and just visiting with guests! Call the church for more information – see you on the 19th!

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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

May Calendar of Events

April 26

Fri, April 27

Fri, April 27 Sat, April 28 Sat, April 28 May

Adams Staff Appreciation Dinner MOPS Creative Moments MOPS Dinner and Auction MOPS Gathering and Training Prayer Shawl Ministry

Tue, May 1

Tue, May 1

Wed, May 2

Thur, May 3

Fri, May 4 May 4 and 5

Sun, May 6

Sun, May 6

Mon, May 7

Tue, May 8

Wed, May 9 Thur, May 10

Fri, May 11

Sat, May 12 Sun, May 13 Mon, May 14 Mon, May 14 Thur, May 17

Fri, May 18

Sat, May 19

Sat, May 19 Sun, May 20 Sun, May 20 Sun, May 20

Tue, May 22 Wed, May 23

Sat, May 26 Mon, May 28 Thur, May 31

Fri, June 1

Hospitality Ministry Team Nominating Committee Meeting Grace y Gracia Juntos Senior Adult Ministry Meeting MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) ECO Presbytery Meeting

5:30 pm Gym 9:00 am Room 203 5:30 pm Garden Room 12:00 - 4:00 pm Garden Room 1:00 pm Lounge

Adams Staff Moms Everyone MOPS Leadership Knitters

5:00 pm Lounge 5:15 pm Adult Ed Room 6:00 pm Lounge 2:00 pm Fireside Room 9:00 am Chapel Fri and Sat Sanctuary/Garden Rm

Committee Committee Women Committee Moms Everyone

Pastor Jim's Installation and Celebration!

All Morning Sanctuary/Garden Rm Prayer Sun / Communion in Fireside Room All Morning Sanctuary/Fireside Rm Adult Ed Ministry Team Meeting 4:00 pm Library Mission Ministry Team Meeting 4:00 pm Adult Ed Room Preschool Board Meeting 12:00 pm KidZone Center Sozo Leader Training 6:00 pm Lounge MOPS Leadership Meeting 9:30 am Fireside Room Prayer Shawl Ministry 1:00 pm Garden Room Mother's Day / Baptism Sunday Edith Ferry Circle Lunch & Meeting 12:00 pm Fireside Room Business Ministry Team Meeting 4:00 pm Library Grace Fellowship: Sonny Salsbury 2:00 pm Garden Room MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9:00 am Chapel Clothing Exchange 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Gym VBS Set Decorating Work Party 9:00 am - Noon Garden Room Pastor Cindy's Retirement Celebration All Morning Sanctuary/Garden Rm Deacon's Meeting 12:30 pm Lounge Wash • A • Thon/Car Wash! Student Fundraiser 4:00 pm Toyota of Yakima Session Dinner and Meeting 5:30 pm Garden Rm/Adult Ed Mary MacLean Guild Meeting 12:30 pm Off-site Prayer Shawl Ministry 1:00 pm Garden Room Memorial Day / Church Closed Preschool Last Day Luau - 3's 10:00 am Sanctuary Preschool Last Day Luau - 4's and PK 10:00 am Sanctuary

Everyone Everyone Committee Committee Board Sozo Team Committee Knitters

(see schedule YakimaGrace.com)

Women Committee Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Deacons Everyone Elders Knitters Preschool Preschool

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 18

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) All Staff Check-In Meeting Overeater’s Anonymous Trailseekers Al-Anon Divorce Care

TUE

SOZO Prayer Pursuing Our Limitless God (Women's Bible Study)

Women in the Word Bible Study

WED

Youth Group *Dinner too!

Gracia de Cristo Music Rehearsal

THUR Bible Study Fellowship Growth Group - Open...Come Check It Out! Temple Choir SOZO Prayer FRI

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

10:00 am 10:00 am 12:00 pm 2:30 pm 5:15 pm 6:30 pm 9:00 -11:30 am 9:15 am 9:45 am

Adult Ed Lounge Adult Ed Gym Adult Ed Lounge

Everyone All Staff Everyone Trailseekers Everyone Everyone

Prayer Room Gym

SOZO Team Women

Fireside Room

Women

6:30- 8:30 pm 6:00- 8:00 pm

Gym 6th-12th grade Sanctuary

9:00 am 1:30 pm 7:00 pm 5:45 - 9:15 pm

Sanctuary Lounge Choir Room Prayer Room

Women Adults Temple Choir SOZO Team

9:00 - 11:30 am

Chapel

Moms

9:00 - 11:30 am

Prayer Room

SOZO Team

Sanctuary Chapel Sanctuary Sanctuary Adult Ed Room 103 KidZone Wing Youth Rm & Gym

Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Adults Adults 3yrs thru 5th grade Gr 6-12

Sunday Services and Events

SUN

Grace Contemporary Worship 9:00 am Grace Modern Worship 10:45 am Grace Traditional Worship - Led by Temple Choir 11:00 am Gracia de Cristo Worship in Spanish 1:00 pm Going Deeper: Romans 9:30 am Golden Circle 10:15 am Grace Kids 9:00 & 10:45 am Youth reFUEL 9:00 am

Announcements COOKIES

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…

May 6 May 13

May 20 May 27

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

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

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID YAKIMA, WA PERMIT NO 59