Grace Alive March 2015

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Interim Head of Staff — Pastor Cindy Carter

WHAT IS THE SEASON OF LENT?

Lent is the forty days before Easter beginning with Ash Wednesday, excluding Sundays, because every Sunday is like a little Easter. It is a season where Christians focus on simple living, prayer, and giving things up, in order to make space for the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. It’s a time of reflecting on our deep need, and great gratitude, for Jesus’ death on the cross.

Marianne Meye Thompson, Professor of New Testament at Fuller Seminary, in her article, “Letting Go in Lent,” writes: Many Christians practice the discipline of “giving up” something for Lent--a favorite food, such as chocolate or coffee, or a favorite activity, such as television.

Once Lent is over, so is the “giving up.” Living as Jesus calls us to live means that we are asked to let go of certain things, not just temporarily, but altogether. What we are called to let go of are those self-seeking ways, attitudes that further our own interests and ends, the grudges that we are nursing, anger against a boss or coworker or mate, a bad 2

habit, our greed, and the driving desire to have or consume something. As Jesus approached the Cross, he let go of his own will and even his own life. He gave himself to God. So to live in the shadow of the Cross is to let go of those things that keep us from living fully unto God and for the benefit of others, precisely with the intent of letting them go forever.

It is also possible in Lent to think not of giving something up but of giving something away.

In these fearful and anxious times, it is easy to turn to protecting our own interests and concerns. And it is important to be prudent.

But the hungry are still hungry – and maybe hungrier – when times are tough; the homeless are still homeless, and there may be more of them. Although it is easier to clench one’s hands than to open them, Jesus calls his disciples to “give their lives” to serve others. One of the ways this is done most tangibly and perhaps painfully, too – is to practice the discipline of giving alms (Mt 6:2-4). Lent is a time not so much to give something up, but to give it away, as Jesus gave himself away for us.

As we live in this season, inviting God to make us more like Jesus, let us continue to ask: 1. God, what are you saying to me about what you want me to let go of, in order to live more fully for you?

2. God, what do you want me to do, in the area of giving myself, my time, or my resources away for you and your Upper Story purposes?

Will you let someone know who can pray for you, and hold you lovingly accountable?

May you truly experience the hope and joy of God’s love and resurrection power!

– Pastor Cindy Carter

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Session Update During the January Session meeting, Elders approved Pastor Tyler Van Horn’s job description as Assistant Pastor of Discipleship and Teaching. Pastor Tyler is responsible for nurturing the spiritual development and growth of the congregation and the un-churched through teaching, preaching, coaching, spiritual guidance and development. Pastor Tyler and Pastor Cindy will work closely to influence the culture of the congregation. He works to create a Godcentered culture, in which people continually ask/ discern within the context of community, “What is God saying?” and “What is God calling me (us) to do in response?” Pastor Tyler will also work to align the missional vision and core values of the church through oversight of its various Discipling Ministries for children, youth and adults.

A central goal is to create an environment that is open and inviting to the un-churched as well as those already invested in the life of the church, and seek to multiply the leadership of the church.

Pastor Tyler’s specific job responsibilities will include: • Setting the preaching schedule, planning the preaching topics and studying for upcoming messages with input from Pastor Cindy.

• Working with the worship planning team to set vision and work through how to create worship services that both honor God and are helpful in the discipling of people; all of this done with the worship leaders, the worship coordinator, the worship elders and Pastor Cindy.

• Supporting, leading, and holding accountable the staff members in the following departments: children, youth, families and connecting ministry; all of this done with the primary focus of discipling these staff members so that they can disciple others.

• Attending and participating in weekly staff meetings, as well as helping set vision, problem solving, and plan for staff training with Pastor Cindy.

• Being the pastoral resource and staff contact person for the discipleship ministry team; working with this team of people who are responsible for all of our program ministries.

• Being the pastoral resource and staff contact person for the worship ministry team along with Pastor Cindy; working with this team of people who are responsible for Sunday mornings and all other worship services throughout the year.

• Being the pastoral resource and staff contact person for the service ministry team; working with this team of people who are responsible for our mission partners locally and globally.

• Being the pastoral resource and staff contact person for the Ghormley Commission; helping with the communication between the church and the camp and helping to find ways in which these two entities can work together.

• Playing a secondary role to Pastor Cindy in working to implement a discipleship strategy within our church and working to create a cohesive strategic plan for the growth and health of the church.

• Meeting with people in order to process how God is speaking to them and how they are going to respond.

• Working with 3-5 couples per year in order to prepare them for marriage, plan their wedding ceremony and officiate the wedding service.

During the Presbytery meeting to be held March 6-7th Tyler will undergo examination with the anticipated recommendation for ECO ordination to follow. Please pray for Pastor Tyler as he prepares for the examination.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Student Ministries — Jeff Murray

GRADUATING SENIORS! We want to celebrate your time here and send you off on your next adventure with prayer and encouragement. If you are interested in being part of our Senior Send Off Brunch it will take place on May 3 at 11am in the gym.

Please RSVP by contacting Jeff Murray (jeff@yakimagrace. com) by April 20 with how many people from your family would like to attend. Please email digital pictures, including at least one senior photo and no more than 20 pictures of you growing up. These photos will need to be submitted by April 20.

We’d like you to attend the 9:30 am service that day with your family so that the church can pray for you and your classmates.

Trailseekers

TRAILSEEKERS AUCTION & Trailseekers DESSERT On March 8, Trailseekers is celebrating 25 years of ministry with a Dessert Auction. Join us in the GCPC gym from 1-4 pm. Along with the desserts, there will be both a silent and oral auction of many other wonderful items. Throughout the afternoon, there will be several ways to get to know the boys and girls that are currently involved in Trailseekers, including a short scheduled program.

The Trailseekers organization is made up of several interwoven programs; a weekly grade school program which meets at GCPC, middle-school and high-school leadership small groups and the Orcas Encampment and Short-Stop summer camps. The purpose and goal of Trailseekers is to teach at-risk children and youth about God and the saving grace of Jesus Christ; where the three “R”s are stressed: Responsibility, Respect and Relationships.

We are pleased with the fine citizens we are privileged to work with and invite you to a fun afternoon, making their acquaintance and joyously supporting the growing of their life goals. Come to celebrate, “For Heaven’s Sake!” - enjoy 4

VISION What does Jesus see when he looks at our city?

“Vision” is a four day mission trip in our very own city. March 29 (7:00p) to April 2 (7:00p). We are going to pretend that Yakima is a city that we’ve never been to before! We will try to look at our own city with renewed eyes. We will spend time in places that we would normally pass over. We will learn a lot about what Jesus is doing here through people and how we can be a part of that. We will be spending time serving people with no homes and learning more about the issue of human trafficking (modern day slavery) in our city and world.

Vision is part of our youth group’s Justice Project. In order to participate students need to bring in $89 to cover meals, gas and other expenses for the four days. We will also need to commit to shutting off our phones and approaching this experience with a willingness to see our town in an entirely different way. Without phones, video games, and Netflix to distract us, we will find that our relationships with each other grow and become more important to us. We will discover that more joy comes from playing together, serving together and learning together under the Lord than anything else. Contact Jeff Murray with questions.

some great company, eat homemade desserts and learn of the amazing things God is doing in the lives of children and youth in downtown Yakima.

For more information, or if you would like to donate to the Trailseekers’ auction, please contact Carol West or Pat Erickson. Hope to see you there!

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Devotions — Janet Krieger

“The separation is in the preparation.” prepare your minds for action. “ So Control yourselves. Put your hope completely in the grace that will be given to you when Jesus Christ returns. Obey God because you are His children.

Don’t slip back into your old ways of doing evil; you didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God – who chose you to be His children – is holy. For He Himself has said, “You must be holy because I am holy.”

– 1 Peter 1:13-16

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Peter is writing to believers undergoing severe trials. NonChristians were saying evil things about them, believers were discriminated against, accused of crimes they did not commit and were brought into court and tried on false charges. Peter’s encouragement to the believers was to stand firm and to prepare their minds and hearts to maintain a life of holiness in the midst of these trials.

The Greek expression to prepare your minds for action literally meant to tuck up the hem of one’s robe into one’s belt in readiness to work. It was hard to accomplish strenuous work in a robe so people would gather their robe up, pulling it between their legs and tucking the hem into their belt. Peter is telling the persecuted believers to prepare and be ready for action! Peter goes on to say that they should persevere with self-control, not conforming to the evil and wrong desires of this world but to be holy. To be holy is to separate from this world and the ways of thinking and living that characterize people who do not know God. To be holy is to be separate for God, establishing Godly habits and living out the values of the Kingdom of God.

“ it offers you, for when you love the world, you do

Do not love this world nor the things

not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

– 1 John 2:15-17

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Seattle Seahawk quarterback Russell Wilson has a saying that applies well to our Christian walk . . . “The separation is in the preparation.” Russell references this to emphasize the importance he believes there is in diligently preparing for a season, for each game, so that you separate yourself to excel.

As Christians we must also prepare in order that we excel in obeying and glorifying God. Our preparation for separation is accomplished by imitating the life of Jesus, keeping our thought life centered on the Kingdom and standing strong against conforming to this world. It is choosing to prepare our mind and heart to desire and do what our Lord wants. We prepare ourselves for action, for the separation, with Scripture and prayer.

“ I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. ”

– Psalm 119:11 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test “ me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

– Psalm 139:23-24

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As we prepare ourselves for Kingdom living, ponder these questions: “Does what I read and watch honor God? Are the video games my children play harmful to their minds?

Am I too busy, overloaded and stressed? Do I over-plan and miss God’s plan? Am I preoccupied with money? Do I explore alternative teachings? Am I too open-minded? Do I justify my attitudes, actions & words? Am I unteachable?

Am I creating my own reality in order to continue doing what I want? Do I get caught up in comparing myself to others? Ask God to show you those places He is preparing you to take action, to repent and change your way of thinking and living.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Connecting Ministries — Jocelyn Larsen

ON THE SHOULDERS OF THOSE 11 MEN This month we remember Jesus’ final few weeks of ministry, on his way to the cross and the empty tomb. During these final weeks, Jesus did far less feeding, healing, and teaching ministry to the crowds than was usual for him at the beginning of his ministry. Rather, he spent most of his days in the simple, intimate community of his twelve disciples.

In his heart, he knew that this plan really was the best plan.

And he knew that the best ministry was yet to come.

I wonder if he ever felt a little bit nervous. Here he was, knowing that he was going to be crucified in a very gruesome, very public death. For a few days, this would look like a very dead end to all that he had built in the past three years of full-time ministry. This would look like an abysmal failure for all that the Jews had hoped the Messiah would be. And then, three days later it would look positively absurd: an empty tomb. Lots and lots of people would never believe it. Would anyone believe it?

It is during these rich Lenten weeks that my thoughts drift often to this spiritual legacy of which I am a part. I think of these weak, slow-to-understand, distracted, fiery eleven men who were virtually all that remained of Jesus’ ministry when he left to take his seat at the Father’s right hand.

Against all odds, but alongside the Spirit of God, Jesus’ plan worked. The eleven men held on and the Good News was spread far and wide. Sometimes it spread to thousands at once – quickly and broadly, like wild fire. Sometimes it plodded along, slowly, steadily, from individual Jesusfollower to individual Jesus-follower. The eleven passed along the love of Jesus to their spiritual descendants, who demonstrated Jesus-following to their spiritual descendants, who shared the Good News with their spiritual descendants, who told the Jesus story to me. And I will sit in our beautiful sanctuary this Lenten season - not in a pew, but rather on the shoulders of those who have gone before me in following Jesus. I will sit on Lenten Sundays and on Ash Wednesday and on Good Friday, remembering Jesus and learning more of what it means to live out the Jesus Way, all because of my spiritual parents, all because of their spiritual ancestors, all because of those eleven men, all because of Jesus.

I wonder if he ever had twinges of uncertainty about this plan. He was staking his entire ministry on these twelve, well, these eleven men. The crowds were too wishy-washy (from “Hosanna in the highest!” to “Crucify him!” within just one week?!) to be the leaders and disseminators of his kingdom after he was gone. He was counting on these eleven men to carry on his ministry – the proclaiming of the Good News of the kingdom (now in the very different light of the shadow of the cross and the brilliance of the empty tomb), the teaching of new disciples in the ways of Jesus, and the healing and reparative work this broken world needs. Would these eleven men have what it takes?

Would they remember all that he had poured into them?

Had he invested enough? Would they persevere through difficulties? Would they be up to the task? Would they just forget it all and run for cover?

There was only one way to find out. Knowing that the Spirit would come soon must have bolstered his confidence in these eleven. Yes, he would be gone from them bodily, but in just a few days, he would be with them more intimately than he ever had been – pitching a tent, tabernacling, dwelling in their very mobile hearts by his Spirit.

On whose spiritual shoulders do you sit? Who reached out to you and showed you the way of Jesus? Who passed on this spiritual legacy to you?

And, 30 years from now, who will be sitting on your spiritual shoulders? Who will have learned about following Jesus from your hands, your heart, your life? What an honor to be called, invited, counted in this generations-old spiritual legacy of Jesus himself and those faithful eleven men.

To hear more from Jocelyn on this topic, listen online to a talk that she gave at the Living a Spirit-Led Life Bible Study at GCPC in February. Go to: yakimagrace.com; on the side menu, click on the “Listen & Download” link, then on “Living a Spirit-Led Life.” Then under “Oh, for Heaven’s Sake Winter 2015,” click on the fourth link: 2015_02_03_OhForHeavensSake. Jocelyn also blogs about things like this at lifewithjocelyn.com.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

New Staff Members

WELCOME NEW STAFF MEMBERS Thank you so much for your prayers during this time of transition with our church staff. It was a tremendous blessing to have Diane Kearby join our staff during this time of transition. She was essential in keeping things organized for our pastoral staff, assisting with Deacons and a huge support to our staff. We treasure her servant heart and willingness to help in most any situation! Thank you Diane!

We are pleased to announce that we are hiring two new part time support staff. First is Diane Eilmes, who will be our Technical Support Assistant, primarily assisting Debbie Kent in the areas of Worship and Media, Online media and Technical back up. Diane has been volunteering with Debbie for quite some time and brings years of experience in working with churches and non-profits.

Second is Jean Paulson, who will be our Pastoral Administrative Assistant, working with Session, Deacons, assisting Pastors, organizing baptisms, memorial services, and other support staff help.

Jean returns, having served faithfully in a variety of capacities both as a staff and a volunteer. We had several other good candidates for this position, too, but definitely sensed God’s leading in this decision.

Senior Ministry

KAFFEE KLATSCH In the Aftermath of Near Tragedy ...the Schilperoort’s path to recovery Anne Schilperoort will be the featured speaker for our March 19, 2015 Kaffee Klatsch session at 2:00 in the Garden Room. Previously, she has brought stories of her missionary work in countries where people crave Bibles but can’t get their hands on them. At that time, she said she felt akin to Jonah, because just as he had done, she had occasionally felt the urge to hide from God. Still, He kept searching for her and faithfully led her to some amazing places.

Though Anne is still involved with that form of ministry, God has added new dimensions to her path. As most of us already know, Monte, her husband, experienced a lifethreatening and definitely life-altering accident a couple of years ago. When that happened, things seemed very bleak. Again, Anne felt God’s call to her. Now, a couple of years later, even more blessings appear to be surfacing.

At the March Kaffee Klatsch, Anne will be sharing some of the amazingly positive things that have come from what initially appeared to be a devastating accident. She is the first person to claim that God’s will may be difficult to understand. She knows that other Christian families have gone through shattering episodes where their prayers have been answered differently than petitioned.

Yet, in her family’s experience, God’s abundant grace has been magnified. As we’re told in Isaiah 61:3, “. . .and bestow on them a crown of beauty, instead of ashes, and oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of despair . . .”

Anne’s message will inspire you. We sincerely hope that you will join us. Perhaps you have a friend who is currently experiencing a major event in their lives or has recently done so. We encourage you to invite them to come, too. Anne’s message may help them see things from an expanded point of view.

We always welcome an initial head count for refreshment purposes. Thanks for signing up at the Connection Center.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Children’s Ministry — Susie Woodin

Join us Palm Sunday, March 29 as KidZone presents “Tell Me the Story” during the 8, 9:30, & 11:00 services Don’t miss this special Sunday as the kids share the wonderful story of Easter with the congregation.

PRESENTING…

A SPECIAL FAMILY EASTER WORSHIP SERVICE Join us this Easter Sunday – April 5 at the 9:30 AM service as parents and kids will worship and celebrate together.

Childcare is available kindergarten and younger.

Parents please note: music rehearsal has begun in all classes and KidZone attendance is very important; especially now as we prepare to lead in worship.

Sonbeams and Cubbies sing during the 9:30 AM service only and should arrive to their classrooms by 9:00 AM. They can be picked up in their classrooms at the end of KidZone.

for

children

COMING TO A CHURCH NEAR YOU THIS SUMMER...

GRACE OF CHRIST PRESENTS Super Summer Sunday VBS

1st – 5th Grades sing in all 3 services and should arrive in room 217 @ 8:00 AM. They will be ready for pickup in their classrooms by 11:20.

All kids will have breakfast during the KidZone hour.

June 21 - July 26 6 weeks of fun and adventure for the entire family!

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Preschool — Rhonda Cardona

Formerly First Presbyterian Christian Preschool

8:30 AM to 12:30 PM (Sun – Fri ) GARDEN ROOM

• Books for All Ages and Levels!

• Help a Child Build a Life-Long Love of Reading!

• Your Purchases Benefit the Preschool!

(40 - 50% in New Books, Classroom Supplies & Curriculum!)

Garden Room Wednesday, March 11 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Cristo Vive Fellowship — Pastor Gustavo Carvajal

GRACE OF CHRIST & CRISTO VIVE

One church, Embodying our Mission to Love and Serve... Kindling the Fire FOOTBALL CAMP A football Camp done in late 2014 started a fire of service and love at Adams Elementary and at Washington Middle Schools. God is on the move meeting the needs of children and youth in Yakima. We are joining Him leading a partnership with two key schools in our community: Adams and Washington.

FAMILY NIGHTS AT ADAMS This event happens every other month. It’s a fun movie night that welcomes 300+ parents and children. Our commitment is to set up chairs, man some of the concession tables and help with clean up afterwards.

PARENTS AND TEACHERS ORGANIZATION MEETINGS We have been present at these monthly meetings to help set up breakfast and be there to build relationships.

TEACHERS’ APPRECIATION MEETINGS We want to join the school’s principal and counselor communicating a message of love and appreciation to teachers who are very committed to the success of their students. With a heavy workload and unique pressure and challenges, we want to come alongside and say: We appreciate what you are doing and we are here to help!

ADAMS BULL DOG HUG CELEBRATION FRIDAYS AT 2:50PM This is a high energy activity that rewards and celebrates kids behavior. This has changed their culture going from 60 suspensions a year a couple of years ago to a handful a year. What a change! This has also boosted children’s performance propelling them from being at the bottom to now being one of the top 15 schools statewide.

These are examples of service, but we want to go beyond an act of service. We want to have disciples of Christ being and making disciples. Volunteers who are learning how to be disciples in small groups (huddles) at Grace of Christ will live out as disciples of Christ by engaging opportunities of service in these schools. All of us will grow in Christ likeness as we see God at work in our lives and in theirs.

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To accomplish the goal of having a discipling community we are bringing together outside and in-house partners. We will capitalize on the strengths of the YMCA’s Aspire mentors program, Madison House after school programs, Trail Seeker’s strong relationship with families, and others together with volunteers/disciples from Grace of Christ/Cristo Vive.

Our vision is to see a Multicultural Community of Disciples in Yakima and we invite you to be a part of it!

We have set clear goals to impact the lives of 1,400+ children in these schools and their respective families.

Cristo Vive leadership is driving this partnership. The Cristo Vive Session Commission spearheaded by Rich Millet, Jake Kupp, Alex Rule, Gustavo Carvajal and others have worked on a strategic plan. Here are our S.M.A.R.T.* goals for the rest of the year: Recruitment and Vision Casting for Volunteer Leaders: February 2015 Start 4 Huddle Groups (30 to 38 people): April 2015 3DM Training on the Go… Learn as We Serve Weekly Participation in Bulldog Hug Celebration: November 2015 Bi-monthly participation in Family Night @ Adams: January 2015 Reading Mentorship program at Adams and Washington : 2Q/2015 Soccer Camp (Led by Grace of Christ & Cristo Vive Youth): 3Q/2015 ESL or Parenting or Finances Classes: 4Q/2015 The Time Is Now! We have already engaged and pray for YOUR future involvement. Come to our Vision Casting Session on Monday March 9th at 6:30 pm to learn more about this contagious fire. *Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant & Time Bound.

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Early Learning Zone

Clothing Exchange

SHARING THE LOVE OF JESUS, One Brownie at a Time

SPRING CLOTHING EXCHANGE

Hello Church Family, I wanted to share with you an opportunity the kids in ELZ had today. The kids (mostly 3 years olds) had the opportunity to serve the children at Rod’s House.

We made about 40 desserts for the kids that go to Rod’s House for dinner each night. These are homeless youth that are able to receive a meal each night.

As you may guess, it would be hard to explain homelessness to 3 year olds but they do understand treats. We explained to them that these are kids that do not get very many treats and they (even at 3) are asked to serve others.

The Lord asks each one of to serve others, and by making these treats for someone else they are doing just that. It was such a blessing watching these kids put stickers on the containers, build the brownie and frosting, and top it off with conversation hearts.

As springtime nears, so too does the need for clothing for our neighbors.

As you may know, twice a year, our church hosts a community clothing exchange and this spring’s Clothing Exchange is scheduled for March 28.

It is a chance for Grace of Christ to give the love and compassion of Jesus Christ to our neighbors who are in need; to be the hands and feet of Christ to those around us. “… I needed clothes and you clothed me… The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matt 25:36, 40 NIV For the last several years, the Clothing Exchange has been blessed to be organized by our own Cristo Vive members. But they need our help. Please bring your gently used clothing and household items to the church gym beginning March 22.

And if you can believe it, not one of the kids after talking about why we were doing it, tried to eat any of this yummy goodness. Such self-control! I am just so proud of them and wanted to share this with you!

Thank you for all of your prayers.

Feeling Blessed, Monnie Miller

We want to thank you for being the vital part of this wonderful event. Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples of all nations, and we want to continue this practice to show the Great Grace of Christ. If you are interested in helping at this amazing event, please contact Alex Rule at 248-7940. Volunteers are needed and greatly appreciated.

Hope to see you there!

Cristo Vive and Service Ministry Team

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Ghormley Service Ministry Meadow Christian Camp

SUMMER CAMP 2015 REGISTRATION HAS BEGUN! Be sure to sign up early to guarantee your spot! www. ghormleymeadow.org. Remember to take advantage of 10% OFF when you pay in full and register before April 17!

FOUR WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT CAMP GHORMLEY PRAYER • Pray that Camp Ghormley will be financially successful in 2015 • Pray that relationships would be built, lives changed and every person who comes to Ghormley Meadow will meet Jesus • Pray that the Lord will lead us as we prepare for adding and updating facilities

UPCOMING PROJECTS We are excited to announce that we have begun planning the renovation of our most popular building...Evergreen!

Evergreen is essential to Camp Ghormley’s function as it is where we host a majority of our summer programs and guest groups. Join us in prayer as we decide how to restore Evergreen to best fit Ghormley’s needs.

OTHER VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Contact Joe Buckley, 961-0424 or email jcbuckley2@ fairpoint.net • Adopt-A-Cabin / Adopt-A-Flower Bed • Host Guest Groups • Help with activities and events that will be part of the Year of Ghormley

FINANCIALLY Support Camp Ghormley through operating funds, camp scholarships, and memorials.

SECOND SATURDAY WORK DAY 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 14 Cabins are so heavily used in the summer making winter and spring a perfect time to do repairs and fix ups. There will also be a few outside jobs needing attention.

Your efforts, contributions and prayers are needed and much appreciated! Lunch will be provided with an RSVP. Call Camp 672-4311.

HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM The application and selection process for our High School Leadership Development Program is now open!

SHIFT (and OVERDRIVE – for second year students) is a 3-week program that trains and equips high school students to be spiritual leaders in their homes, churches and schools as well as providing vital work experience. Visit www. ghormleymeadow.org for more information and to apply! * Must be 16 years old or an entering junior or senior in fall 2015.

SUMMER STAFF WANTED It’s that time of year again! Camp Ghormley is now looking for young men and women who want to serve God this coming summer through the ministry of Christian Camping. Those 18 and older can apply through www.ghormleymeadow.org, to be considered for a summer position.

See the camp’s website for more information on available positions.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Women’s Ministry

COME TO THE WOMEN’S SPRING EVENT! We will be taking registrations up to the event date, even after the FREE community Avory Concert, Friday, March 20!

The concert is free and open to men & women.

Saturday’s Women’s Event is $40 per person and includes lunch. Why should you come? Listen to these testimonies of women who attended the last Grace of Christ Women’s event:

awesome, enlightening, revealing, loving “ Restful, sisters in Christ! So many loving sisters in love with the Lord. Soothing, comforting, revelations. He (the Lord) touched my soul and brought new, enhanced joy and love of My Father, God. – Melody

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was blessed to be here with my daughter-in-law. “ IGod truly met me here and filled me up with His

Featuring Guest Speaker

Wendy Backlund gave me personal and spiritual breakthrough “ God which I have been praying for years, and a continued hope for the future. I also made wonderful connections with Grace of Christ women (I’m new) and felt so welcomed, safe, and free to be who I am, and where I am in my journey. Thank you!

–

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Jocelyn

“ The ministry team was precious and blessed us all. Every detail of the retreat was meticulously organized. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in the words of the prayerful women who spoke words of encouragement over my life. This was a time of refreshing, renewal and regeneration!

– Robyn

good promises and words. He amazed me again with miracles of His love. The joy of the Lord is so evident in the women who were here.

– Pam

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Financial Peace University

HOW TO HANDLE MONEY GOD’S WAY The first few weeks of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU) have been a tremendous journey for the 115 people from around the community who have registered for our first FPU class at Grace of Christ Church.

This is an intense, but fun 9 week class that brings lifechanging financial strategies to each household. Together, we are learning how to be good stewards of the money God has entrusted to us. Dave’s online tools and tutorials provide step-by-step help to everyone who is a member of FPU whether you are going through it for the first time or 10th time.

Our Children’s Ministry is offering a program for kids while the adults are in class also teaching our next generation about money the Dave Ramsey way. The 20 plus kids who attend are having fun engaging in activities on how to handle money God’s way. There are also take home exercises that parents and kids can do and talk through together. What a wonderful way to begin having discussions with our children about the importance of spending, saving and giving to others.

Here are a few testimonies from the adults of how their lives and finances have been impacted so far since taking Financial Peace University:

“

In going through the budgeting process, I couldn’t believe how much money was being spent in the food area. As we began to look more closely at this area, we were amazed at the amount of money we could free up to redirect to other categories and never missed a beat or a meal.

I have noticed that I have more money at the end of the month. Using cash has made me double check if a purchase is necessary. Now I have more money than the month, rather than more month than money.

My husband and I are now sitting down and seriously talking about our budget, we are seeing how important it is to be disciplined.

”

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church 9 South 8th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 248-7940

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

March Calendar of Events

Fri, February 27 Sat, February 28

Sun, March 1

Mon, March 2

Tue, March 3

Thur, March 5

Fri, March 6

Sun, March 8

Tue, March 10

Wed, March 11

Thur, March 12

Fri, March 13

Sat, March 14

Sun, March 15

Tue, March 17

Wed, March 18

Thur, March 19

Fri, March 20

Sat, March 21

Wed, March 25

Fri, March 27

Sat, March 28

Sun, March 29

Thur, April 2

Fri, April 3

Sun, April 5

14

MOPS Creative Moments Prayer Shawl Ministry Prayer Sun day Prayer Class “Growing Closer to God” Fellowship Ministry Team Meeting Discipleship Ministry Team Meeting Worship Ministry Team Meeting Senior Adult Ministries Meeting Women’s Ministry Meeting Scholastic Book Fair Opens Today!

Craft Night

9:30 am 1:00 pm

All Morning 1:00 pm 6:00 pm

5:00 pm 6:15 pm 1:30 pm 4:30 pm All Morning 6:00 pm DAYLIGHT SAVINGS: SPRING FORWARD! Trailseeker Dessert Auction 1:00 pm Service Ministry Team Meeting 6:00 pm Business Ministry Team 4:00 pm Parent Night / Scholastic Book Fair 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Ghormley Commission 7:00 pm MOPS Leadership Meeting 9:30 am 2nd Sat Ghormley Work Day 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Prayer Shawl Ministry 1:00 pm National Day of Prayer Meeting 2:00 pm Childcare Staff Meeting 12:30 pm SOAR Gathering 6:00 pm Session Dinner and Meeting 6:00 pm Edith Ferry Circle 12:00 pm Kaffee Klatsch (Anne Schilproort) 2:00 pm MOPS Set Up 5:00 pm

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 9:30 am Avory Concert / Wendy Backlund Guest Speaker 6:00 pm Women’s Spring Event / Wendy Backlund 8:15 am - 5:00 pm Mary MacLean Guild Spring Luncheon 12:00 pm MOPS Creative Moments 9:30 am Clothing Exchange 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Prayer Shawl Ministry 1:00 pm Palm Sun / Kids Sing all 3 Services All Morning Cristo Vive New Members / Baptism Sun 12:15 pm Senior Adult Ministries Meeting 1:30 pm Women’s Ministry Meeting 4:00 pm Cristo Vive Seder Meal 6:00 pm Maundy Thur Communion & Tenebrae 6:30 pm GOOD FRIDAY / PRAYER IN SANCTUARY 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm RESURRECTION SUNDAY! 8, 9:30 & 11:00 am Sunrise Easter Service 6:30 am Easter Breakfast 7:00 am - 11:30 am

Room 217 Garden Room

Moms Knitters

Sanctuary Lounge Lounge 2nd Floor Office Adult Ed Rm Adult Ed Rm Parlor Garden Room Adult Ed Rm

Everyone Everyone Committee Committee Committee Committee Committee Everyone Women

Gym Adult Ed Rm Library Garden Room Adult Ed Rm Lounge Camp Ghormley Garden Room Lounge Adult Ed Rm Chapel Garden Rm/Mid High Parlor Garden Room Gym Gym Sanctuary Garden Room Garden Room Room 217 Gym Garden Room Sanctuary Ward Chapel Adult Ed Rm Parlor Chapel Sanctuary Sanctuary Sanctuary North Lawn Gym

Everyone Committee Committee Everyone Committee Committee Everyone Knitters Committee Staff Everyone Elders/Prog Staff Women Everyone Committee Moms Everyone Women Women Moms Everyone Knitters Everyone Everyone Committee Committee Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Weekday Events

Monday TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

All Staff Chek-In Meeting

Overeaters Anonymous

Trailseekers

Al-Anon

Divorce Care

Tuesday

Bible Study “Living a Spirit Led Life” Women in the Word Bible Study

Wednesday Women of Action (2nd & 4th Weds)

Men’s Noon Bible Study

Contemporary Worship Rehearsal

Youth Group - Mid High & Senior High

Cristo Vive Bible Study

Cristo Vive Music Rehearsal

10:00 am 10:00 am 12:00 / noon 2:30 pm 5:15 pm 6:30 pm 9:15 am 9:45 am 9:30 am 12:00 / noon 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Adult Ed DF Lounge Adult Ed Gym Adult Ed Room 217

Everyone All Staff Everyone

Gym Parlor

Everyone Women

Chapel Adult Ed Sanctuary Youth & Mid High Rms Adult Ed Chapel

Women Men

Everyone Everyone

6th-12th Grade Everyone Everyone

Thursday Bible Study Fellowship

Temple Choir

Cristo Vive Music Rehearsal

SOZO Prayer

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

Sanctuary Women Choir Rm Chapel Cristo Vive Lounge, Prayer Rm SOZO Team

9:00 am - 11:30 am

Chapel, Prayer Rm

SOZO Team

Sanctuary Sanctuary Chapel Adult Ed Lounge Gym Mid High & Youth Rms 2nd Floor Sanctuary

Everyone Everyone Everyone Adults Adults Adults 6th-12th Grade 3yrs-5th Grade Everyone

Friday

SOZO Prayer

Sunday Services and Events

Worship - Led by Contemporary Worship Team Worship - Led by Temple Choir & Organ Worship - Cristo Vive (Spanish) Going Deeper: Zechariah Golden Circle The Story Youth Sunday School KidZone Financial Peace University

8:00 am & 9:30 am 11:00 am 12:15 pm 9:30 am 9:30 am 9:30 am 9:30 am 9:30 am 5:00 pm

Announcements SPRING LUNCHEON!

LOVE INC. CLEARINGHOUSE

All women are invited to our annual Spring Luncheon, hosted by the Mary MacLean Guild. Join us on Wed, March 25 at 12:00p in the Garden Room. Our guest speaker will be Lyndi Peacock, “God Sings Gently.” RSVP to office by March 18. Suggested donation, $5 for lunch.

Unfortunately, Love, INC has had to close the Clearinghouse for a couple of weeks due to not having any volunteers to answer the phones. The need for volunteers is at a critical state.The doorway into Love INC is the Clearinghouse. Without volunteers answering the phones in the Clearinghouse, the needs of our neighbors are unknown. Please prayerfully consider becoming a Clearinghouse telephone volunteer so we can be available to recognize more needs in our community.

Together, we can identify opportunities to love and serve our brothers and sisters. Thank you for your prayers! Please contact: Wendy Staff, Clearinghouse Coordinator at 453-0214.

COVENANT PARTNERS – NEW CLASS IN APRIL Are you interested in Partnering with Grace of Christ?

Come explore what it means to be a covenant partner (member) of our church family.

What is the church anyway? What does it mean to be part of ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians?

What is discipleship, and how do we follow Jesus more closely? Come explore with us! Coming to the class does not obligate you to join.

When: Sundays, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm, April 12th – May 3rd Where: David Ferry Lounge

How: Call the church office 248-7940.

Child care is available upon request.

COOKIES & CANS Thank you for bringing cookies for our fellowship time on Sunday mornings and for bringing non-perishable food for the food bank. (We donate to Calvary Rescue mission.)

The date below is when your family can help this month.

March 1: T - Z March 8: A - F March 15: G - M March 22: N - S March 29: T - Z 15

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church GRACE OF CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 9 S 8TH AVENUE YAKIMA, WA 98902

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID YAKIMA, WA PERMIT NO 59

Holy Week Maundy Thursday, April 2 Communion and Tenebrae 6:30 pm in the Sanctuary

Good Friday, April 3 Sanctuary Open for Prayer Noon - 3:00 pm

Easter Sunday, April 5 Sunrise Service 6:30 am on the North Lawn Worship Services (Contemporary) 8:00 am & 9:30 am Worship Service (Traditional) 11:00 am

Breakfast 7:00 am - 11:30 am in the Gym