Grace Alive - Spring 2022

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Pastor — Curt McFarland, Pastor

THAT FIRST EASTER MORNING FIRST EASTER MORNING ...

“Cleopas and one other, both had been followers of Jesus, were traveling that first Easter morning from Jerusalem to a small village called Emmaus (uh may uhs), about a seven mile journey. As they went, they talked. Unexpectedly, someone else joined them. It was Jesus, but they were kept from recognizing Him. Jesus asked them what they were talking about. Cleopas answered, “‘Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?’ And He said to them, ‘What things?’ And they said to Him, ‘Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people and how our chief priests and rulers delivered Him up to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. But we had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened.’” – Luke 24 It is difficult for us to grasp the unbelievableness of that first Easter. For three years an increasingly dedicated group had sacrificed careers, families, rootedness, their prior understanding of God, as they followed a preacher, teacher, prophet and miracle worker named Jesus. And then, over the course of one week, the certainty and celebration of Palm Sunday turned into a chaotic nightmare on Friday.

“We had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel.”

The last cry of Jesus while He hung on Friday’s cross, gasping for one last breath, was, “It is finished.” And as Jesus exhaled, the thoughts and hopes of all who loved Him, believed in Him, followed Him, exhaled too. Now what? What are we suppose to do? Should we go home? Did we just waste three years of our life chasing a dream, a Savior, a promised future?

I was maybe five or six years old when I was immersed, not of my doing, in a good and faithful Presbyterian church in my hometown of Danville, California. My not fully believing

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mom (she became a Christ-follower some ten years later) took me every Sunday. What I found in that church was a relentless focus on Jesus, and a genuine commitment to Christian community. I was surrounded by people who offered me care and compassion. I was seen, acknowledged, valued. If there was a hidden agenda, some ulterior motive, I didn’t see it. I was a taker not a giver. The sum total of what I contributed financially, from age five to 18, was less than the cost of a pair of shoes. I doubt my single mom added much to bottom line either. That church invested in me, paid my summer camp expenses, hired youth workers to model the love of Christ. When I left for Seminary, they supported me there too. They even purchased the pastor robe that, to this day, hangs on a hook outside the Grace of Christ Sanctuary.

From a business perspective it was a poor ROI (return on investment). From my perspective it has impacted every day, every hour, every minute, from my early days stretching into eternity. I have lived in the love of Jesus for 55 years because of their love and sacrifices.

What I write next is self-indicting. I’ve been a Christian for a long time, grateful for that. But for me, with the length of years, comes a tendency to slide into the season of Lent, Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Easter as if it is routine, old hat, nothing new, another day, another week. Every Easter, Christmas too, I have to stop and remember how miraculous Jesus is... how unbelievable Easter is. Why is that? How can I forget the other-worldly, supernatural intervention of Almighty God into this world, and into my life? He is the POWER of the universe. He alone has the Power to restore all that is broken in this world and in me. Lord, remind me of the incredible miraculousness of that first Easter. The unbelievableness reminds me that what happened that Easter morning was GOD-SIZED. That is the only size that makes it believable. I must not slide into the weeks ahead. What happened between Palm Sunday and Easter morning is too BIG.

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Holy Week Cleopas, worn down, depressed, shaken to the core, said, “we had hoped that He was the one to redeem Israel.”

Before the night was over, with the simple breaking of bread, their unexpected traveling companion would reveal Himself as the fulfillment of all their hopes, mine too. Am I ready to embrace the unbelievableness of that first Easter and rest in the immensity of this GOD-SIZED miracle of power and love?

In the Good and Undeserved Grace of Christ, – Curt

QUOTE FROM MARTIN LUTHER (1517-1520) Luther’s Works: Career of the Reformer, Volume 1. p190 For a Christian, “all his (her) sins are no longer his (hers) but through that same unity with Christ everything is swallowed up in Him. And this is the confidence that Christians have and our real joy of conscience, that by means of faith our sins become no longer ours but Christ’s upon whom God placed the sins of all of us.

He took upon Himself our sins [Cf. Isa. 53:12]... He places His hand upon us and all is well with us [Cf. Mark 5:23]. He spreads His cloak and covers us [Cf. Ruth 3:9], blessed Savior throughout all ages, Amen.”

Easter

MOVIE NIGHT AT GRACE: “THE MOST RELUCTANT CONVERT”

Movie Night | Wednesday | April 20 | 6pm | Chapel You are invited to come to Grace (in the Chapel) for a movie night on Wed, April 20th at 6:00pm. Please prepurchase your tickets online – go to YakimaGrace.com/ CSLewis. There will be a time for Q&A with Pastor Curt, following the movie.

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Curt McFarland

Darkness growing Evil’s victory dance A buried Son Entombed A miracle born in eternity Planned by One Paid for, drop by drop The currency of forgiveness Who is this rooted in compassion Hands, feet, pierced, mocked with thorns They say a miracle worker Now taunted, hanging, alone Then silence Hope sealed behind a solid door Questions wrapped in linen Despair Death reversed, destroyed Him too much to hold lifeless limbs stir again Heart rhythms restored No mere revival No passing parade Refleshed, relifed, love endures His triumph ours Divine love alone Power beyond powers He lives again, He seeks Freedom for us, eternity too

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Outreach — Alex Rule, Pastor

WE NEED YOUR CONSTANT PRAYERS

NECESITAMOS SUS ORACIONES CONSTANTES

For very long time our communities have been in the transformation processes; after two years of constant changes and new experiences, here we find ourselves living in this world that keeps changing and never stops spinning.

Now more than ever, people are in desperate and constant need of prayers for love, support and understanding. We may never know the stories of each and every one of those affected by all series of events that have occurred and keep happening such as natural disasters, pandemics, diseases, and wars. The one thing we do know is that there are many hurting people in the world who don’t know the difference between the truth and the lies.

There are many who continue to trust in those who promise to solve their problems, yet are unable to solve their own.

The world is full of persuasive false teachers and prophets who predict the future but are always very far from the truth and reality. It is for this reason that we ask you to pray for our families, for our churches and pastors. Pray for our schools, our nation, our government and for all our leaders in every area. Pray for this beautiful and wonderful world that God has created so that we may live in His peace and be full of His true love.

Desde hace mucho tiempo nuestras comunidades han estado en procesos de transformación; después de dos años de constantes cambios y nuevas experiencias, aquí nos encontramos viviendo en este mundo que sigue cambiando y que nunca deja de girar. Ahora más que nunca la gente está en necesidad constante y desesperada de oraciones por amor, apoyo y comprensión; quizás nunca sepamos las historias de todos y cada uno de los afectados por toda la serie de hechos que han ocurrido, y siguen ocurriendo.

Desastres naturales, pandemias, enfermedades y guerras.

Lo único que sabemos es que el resultado de esto es que hay muchas personas lastimadas, personas que no conocen la diferencia entre la verdad y las mentiras, personas que continúan confiando en aquellos que prometen resolver los problemas, pero que no han podido resolver los suyos, aquellos que predicen el futuro pero siempre están muy lejos de la verdad y la realidad. Es por eso que les pedimos que oren por nuestras familias, por nuestras iglesias y pastores, por nuestras escuelas, por nuestra nación, por nuestro gobierno, por todos nuestros líderes en cada área, y por este hermoso y maravilloso mundo que Dios ha creado para vivir en Su paz y lleno de Su Verdadero Amor. Y esto es lo que realmente sabemos; que Dios seguirá amando, cuidando y proveyendo para todas nuestras necesidades.

Hermanos y hermanas, mi petición para ustedes es que no se desanimen, sino que perseveren hasta el final. “¿No se los he mandado yo? Se fuerte y valiente. No tengas miedo; no te desanimes, porque el SEÑOR tu Dios estará contigo dondequiera que vayas”. – Josué 1:9

The one truth that we can truly trust in is that God will continue loving, caring and providing for all our needs.

Brothers and sisters, my petition to you is that you would not be discouraged, but instead persevere to the end. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 God gave us the scriptures to know the truth. He Himself told us, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32

Dios nos dio las escrituras para conocer la verdad el mismo nos dijo: “Entonces conoceréis la verdad, y la verdad os hará libres.” – Juan 8:32

Have I not commanded you?

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

JOSHUA 1:9

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Outreach The following scripture shows us how Jesus taught His disciples. As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”

Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah, and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.

“Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.

At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

– Matthew 24:3-14

La siguiente escritura nos muestra cómo Jesús enseñó a sus discípulos. Más tarde estaba Jesús sentado en el monte de los Olivos, cuando llegaron los discípulos y le preguntaron en privado: —¿Cuándo sucederá eso, y cuál será la señal de tu venida y del fin del mundo?

TEACHER & STAFF APPRECIATION DINNER

CENA DE APRECIACIÓN A MAESTROS Y PERSONAL

Adams Appreciation Dinner | Thursday | April 28 Grace of Christ will be hosting a dinner to celebrate the Teachers and Staff of Adam’s Elementary on Thursday, April 28. Our Church wants to recognize and show our appreciation for all the work and dedication that the Adams’ teachers and staff have shown to the children in our community. They have given their time, resources and energy to continue educating our children despite all the difficult circumstances created by the pandemic. Please let us know if you are willing and able to help with this very important event! Contact Alex@yakimagrace.com or 509248-7940 x113 for more information.

—Tengan cuidado de que nadie los engañe —les advirtió Jesús—. Vendrán muchos que, usando mi nombre, dirán: “Yo soy el Cristo”, y engañarán a muchos. Ustedes oirán de guerras y de rumores de guerras, pero procuren no alarmarse. Es necesario que eso suceda, pero no será todavía el fin. Se levantará nación contra nación, y reino contra reino. Habrá hambres y terremotos por todas partes.

Todo esto será apenas el comienzo de los dolores. »Entonces los entregarán a ustedes para que los persigan y los maten, y los odiarán todas las naciones por causa de mi nombre. En aquel tiempo muchos se apartarán de la fe; unos a otros se traicionarán y se odiarán; y surgirá un gran número de falsos profetas que engañarán a muchos. Habrá tanta maldad que el amor de muchos se enfriará, pero el que se mantenga firme hasta el fin será salvo. Y este evangelio del reino se predicará en todo el mundo como testimonio a todas las naciones, y entonces vendrá el fin.”

– Mateo 24:3-14

Cena de Apreciación a Adams | jueves | 28 de abril Grace of Christ organizará una cena para celebrar la Semana de apreciación a los maestros y al personal de la escuela primaria Adams el jueves 28 de abril. Nuestra Iglesia quiere reconocer y apreciar el trabajo y la dedicación que cada uno de los maestros y el personal de Adams han realizado durante el momento difícil de la pandemia, todos han dado su tiempo y esfuerzo para seguir educando a nuestros hijos. Háganos saber si desea ayudar en este evento tan importante. Comuníquese con Alex@yakimagrace.com o 509-248-7940 x113 para obtener más información.

Adams Elementary Teacher and Staff Appreciation Dinner at Grace of Christ Church 5

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Outreach

Outreach Camp is Scheduled for June 17-19, 2022

120 Adams Elementary Students will receive a weekend at Camp Ghormely

OUTREACH CAMP AT GHORMLEY

CAMPAMENTO DE ALCANCE EN GHORMLEY

God wants us to share our gifts, talents, and resources with those who need it most. Due to the love and generosity of God and our church congregation, Outreach Ministry is able to gift a weekend of camping at Camp Ghormley to 120 Adams Elementary students! Many volunteers, drivers and mentors are needed! We encourage you to participate in this event that will be a beautiful gift for our God, Creator of this wonderful world and universe. The Outreach Camp will take place June 17-19 and include grades 3-5.

Contact Alex@yakimagrace.com or 509-248-7940 x113 for more information.

God bless you always!

Working for The Kingdom of God, – Pastor Alex Rule

Dios quiere que compartamos nuestros dones, talentos y recursos con quienes más lo necesitan. Es por ello que, y gracias al Amor y Generosidad de Dios y de nuestra congregación que estamos planeando regalar un fin de semana de campamento el 17, 18 y 19 de junio a 120 estudiantes de la Primaria Adams en los grados 3, 4 y 5.

Este campamento será en Ghormley. Se necesitan muchos voluntarios, conductores y mentores; los animamos a participar de este evento que será un hermoso regalo para nuestro Dios, Creador de este Mundo y Universo Maravilloso.

Comuníquese con Alex@yakimagrace.com o 509-248-7940 x113 para obtener más información.

GHORMLEY GOODNESS

OUTREACH CAMP VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Ghormley is proud to offer fresh meals created by our Executive Chef, Tom Bandy. Tom brings award-winning skills, decades of culinary experience, and an amazing amount of love to each meal he creates! Visit www. campghormley.com/goodness/ to learn more.

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¡Dios los bendiga siempre!

Trabajando para el Reino de Dios, – Pastor Alex Rule

JUNE 17-19 | CAMP GHORMELY Please consider helping to minister to the students of Adams Elementary during our Outreach Camp on June 1719 at Camp Ghormely. Contact Alex@yakimagrace.com or 509-248-7940 x113 for more information.

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Student Ministry GREETINGS EVERYONE,

We have had so much happen and we are just getting started.

We are continuing our study in Alpha, a video course that we are using to reintroduce ourselves and the youth to talking to others about Jesus, prayer, faith, and the Bible. We are in the middle of it and will continue it till June.

WHAT WE’VE DONE

Since January, we have had a consistent attendance; we have gained a few new faces most recently. As we are growing we have done one service project and a few activities.

Nerf Night

The other fun activity that we had was a NERF Night. Our very own students planned this one. We were down in the Gym and also used the Mid-High room. The students that have attended both of these activities have had so much fun and we both can’t wait to plan more events like these.

WHAT WE ARE PLANNING

Student Ministry Serving at LOVE INC.

Volunteering at LOVE INC.

At the end of February, we helped serve at LOVE INC. Over the mid-winter break we took about seven students over to their facility on 1st Street, we were given a tour and some insight about what they do. We then were given the task of sorting through the pantry, to toss out any expired food, organized it by expiration date, and we also cleaned the area to the best of our ability. We are hoping to build a connection and maybe return to help again.

Cardio Kick Boxing

The other activities we have done this year, an opportunity to have a free trial class of cardio kick boxing down at a new place called kick ‘n coffee.

This activity was planned by one of our connectors.

We are taking our time and planning each and every month.

Spring Break is just around the corner. We are thinking that we are to do some fun activity that week instead of having a regular Wednesday. We are going to continue having Wednesday nights during the month of April even between Wednesday’s @ Grace sessions. So your youth are still able to attend youth group. It will be similar to Wednesday’s we have while Wednesday’s at Grace are in session.

As the days are getting warmer more Connectors activities will be outside. We have a few pending, such as a hike so bring out those hiking shoes and leave them on stand-by.

WANT TO KNOW MORE

If you are interested in helping or finding out more on how/ what we are doing contact us at: Youth@yakimagrace.com Connectors – If you’d like to contact us on specifically being a Connector contact Jahzeel@yakimagrace.com Mentors – If you’d like to contact us on specifically being a Mentor contact Amae.Merrill@yakimagrace.com Youth Group Information: Youth@yakimagrace.com

Student Ministry at “kick ‘n coffee” in Yakima 7

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Family & Children’s Ministry — Sarah Huck Family & Children's Ministry Director

VBS IS BACK! Guess what? We are having VBS this year! I am SO excited. I can’t wait to see how God is going to show up for our kids. When I think of VBS, I remember the days when my oldest son, who is now 16, attended. I had to use my lunch hour to pick him up, and I always planned an extra-long lunch so I could go early and experience the closing program. Because, as a lot of you know, it was an experience! Costumes, loud music, lights, sparkles, and 300 kids! Sometimes I felt like I had stepped into a Vegas show.

It was that spectacular.

As much as I would love to pack 300 kids into the gym, this year it will look a bit different. A little less flashy.

Perhaps, a little less of everything we were used to.

But, don’t worry, not less of Jesus!

No way! Jesus will be MONUMENTAL at VBS this year. In fact, Jesus is the reason behind VBS. It’s all about HIM. Earlier this year, when I asked Jesus if I was supposed to plan a VBS, I heard in my spirit, “Why wouldn’t you?” And my thought following that was yes, why wouldn’t I? So, we are providing an opportunity for kids to be in a Jesus-filled envi-

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ronment, to be loved on, and to hear the gospel. This summer, if they are at GOC, then they are not up in their rooms playing Fortnite, and they are not getting into trouble because they are bored.

They will be at GOC! And I am happy about that. Yet, since this is my first time planning a VBS, I admit, I’m also a bit terrified. But I’m taking Joshua 1:9 to heart and moving ahead in planning an amazing week for 150 kids. That means you will need to register your kiddos ASAP before it fills up. It’s going to be a SPECTACULAR VBS!

WEDNESDAYS @ GRACE On Wednesday nights following dinner, kids 1st through 5th grade join us upstairs in the big KidZone room. We use icebreakers as a fun way to get interesting conversations going. Activities, games, and a Bible lesson follow. I like to let the kids decide on the order of the evening, and it’s amazing how much smoother class goes when kids are included in the planning of the night.

We have been exploring the Bible and getting to know who God is through a study called Bible Seeker Lessons.

The kids have enjoyed these lessons and are having fun exploring the creative ways God reveals Himself to us.

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SUNDAYS WITH GRACE KIDS FAMILY AT GRACE GARDEN ROOM TABLE

Stop by our table in the Garden Room on Sundays and pick up a Family Faith Kit. While you’re there, check out what is new and coming up! We also have activity bags available every Sunday for kiddos to grab.

GRACE KIDS… What have they been up to?

PALM SUNDAY – MY SAVIOR LIVES! Children’s Program | Sunday | April 10 | Both Services We’ve been working hard this spring, getting ready for Palm Sunday! We hope you can come see our Grace Kids with their program, My Savior Lives, on Sunday, April 10 at both services. The kids have been enthusiastically practicing, and we are excited to celebrate our Risen Lord!

Cubbies Class (Ages 3 - Kinder)

Our Cubbies class also has been learning about Jesus’ life in the book of Luke. Our little Cubbies enjoy making fun crafts to complement their lessons – especially crafts that can be used as swords!

Seekers (1st – 5th Graders)

In March, our Seekers class looked at the book of Luke.

Our class had many good discussion times following these lessons. It can be a challenge to take the Word and make it relevant to kids, but we have some gifted teachers and one awesome Holy Spirit!

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GRACE KIDS HOLY WEEK WALK Holy Week Walk | Easter Sunday | April 17 | 9am Grace Kids to be released from 9am Worship Service.

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Grace of Christ Preschool — Becca Mailand

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THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL YEAR

We are wrapping up our school year and what a whirlwind it’s been! We cannot begin to express how thankful we are for the generosity from everyone at church. From our pie sales in fall to the spring flower baskets arriving in May, we appreciate all your support.

Our preschool has been a trusted place of learning in Yakima for 40 years and we are excited to see both returning families and new families join us next year. We taught 23 students this year and our goal is to double our enrollment next year. We’re well on our way, and you may notice us cleaning up another classroom to prepare for more students and a few new teachers.

PARTNERING WITH AN UNSEEN MINISTRY

Preschool is often an unseen ministry for a church. We require so much financial and prayer support, and yet you’ll probably not see many of these kids on a Sunday morning.

By buying that apple pie or flower basket, you’re providing crafts, Bibles, or a tuition scholarship to a young child who you will most likely never meet. Sometimes it’s hard to see the value of a thing, especially when that thing will never actually be seen. Your faith in our school, knowing that the seeds of faith we plant now will grow and ripen in the future, is what sustains our ministry.

We are a Monday through Friday ministry, tucked away in the classrooms of the church. If you are lucky enough to be here on a weekday morning, please take a peek into one of our rooms and see the joy, energy, and learning happening each day!

Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” – Mark 4:26-29

SPRING HIGHLIGHTS

We do so much more than just learn letters, colors, and numbers! Here are a few of our favorite things this season: • Planting Flowers for Mother’s Day – quite a messy day filled with lots of laughs and dirt!

• Raising Caterpillars / Hatching Butterflies – always a miracle in the eyes of a child • Building Forts in Kids Club – working together through fits of giggles • Having a Baby Bag Supply Drive for Life Choices Yakima – giving back to families in our community who may need a little extra love and support • Making Hand-made Blank Cards for Love, INC to Use in Their Ministry – a small gift from us to those working hard to help others in our community • Honoring our Community Helpers in Class – we had teachers, a dentist, and a sheriff come to our class, just to name a few!

• Spring Tea – our students are busy preparing a program for our friends and families at the end of April. Watch for it on our Facebook page!

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION

We ask everyone to continue to pray and prepare for the children and families God is planning on sending to us. Registration is going on now – please consider sharing a quick word about us to your family, friends, and neighbors with preschool-aged children! Stay tuned! We’re in for an exciting time of growth, learning, and renewal at Grace of Christ Preschool!

Preschoolers Practice Coordination and Cooperation During Parachute and Scarf Play 10

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Early Readers Enjoy Choosing Books to Read From The Classroom Library, Dr. Seuss Day and Eating Green Eggs & Ham

Outside Play Time Climbing and Sliding 11

Developing Rhythm, Beat, and Listening Skills in Music Class YakimaGrace.com

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Hospitality ASH WEDNESDAY

The Lenten Season began on Ash Wednesday, March 2, with the Ash Wednesday Service and a pre-service dinner provided by the Hospitality Ministry Team (HMT). A simple fellowship meal of soup and bread was served with about 70 people in attendance.

DID YOU KNOW our church services are live streamed each Sunday morning and the videos are available to watch anytime on our church website? You can see the Ash Wednesday service, too – https://yakimagrace.com/ashwed

often seems to get buried under busyness, forgetting Jesus’ warnings of the false disciples (Matt 7:21-23), and of those who missed catching a glimpse of Him... in the least of these...(Matt. 25:31-46). I am so grateful for the Grace, Forgiveness, and Mercy of the Lord as He steadily does His transforming work in His disciples; and as we learn to yield to the instruction of His indwelling Spirit convicting us of continual need of confession and repentance. It is such a gift and our doorway to freedom!

In the Lenten preparation for Easter, we are given opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

First, we contemplate the great cost of His life in exchange for ours. Second, we carefully examine our own discipleship. As we mature in faith, we become aware of the continual exhortation to change our way of thinking (repent) and turn towards the path that Jesus trail-blazed for us, following in The Way. Jesus said, ‘take up your cross and follow me’ (Matt.16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23). This commandment

The Hospitality Ministry Team’s purpose is to help facilitate the Welcome of Jesus to all who enter the doors of Grace of Christ Church on Sunday mornings, so they may hear the Gospel. Our goal is to help lower barriers so the invitation of Jesus can be heard. It’s ALL about JESUS – the FATHER’S GIFT of SALVATION for the world that is separated from Him by sin and its ensuing death sentence. The greatest commandment of Jesus to His disciples is to... “love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself...” (Mark 12:28-34).

When we live that way, we will see lives and communities transformed and joy and freedom abound.

A meal of soup and bread being served up for dinner prior to the Ash Wednesday worship service.

Family and friends fellowship together during the Ash Wednesday meal.

Family fellowship during the Ash Wednesday meal.

Ash Wednesday Service at Grace

PREPARING FOR EASTER

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Hospitality CELEBRATING EASTER

The celebration of Easter is the proclamation of the redemptive work of the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is core of our identity, unity, and empowerment. This is why we lift up the name of Jesus. He is the Gospel – the Good News of great joy for all people (Luke 2:10).

Extending the hospitality of Jesus isn’t just for the few who have an extra measure of the gift of friendliness, but for all who are disciples of Jesus.

HMT Volunteers Make A Meal for Camp Hope Residents

HOSPITALITY MINISTRY TEAM SERVES OUR COMMUNITY – CAMP HOPE DINNER MINISTRY

EXTEND THE WELCOME OF JESUS

Easter is often a time when new people, or once-in-awhile people, come to church, many burdened with guilt, hurts, fear and/or judgments associated with the church. This Easter celebrate with joy, the work of Jesus in your own life and extend the WELCOME of Jesus to those around you in the sanctuary, the Garden Room, the parking lot and when walking into the church.

Give visitors a warm welcome, introduce yourself, invite them back to another worship service or let them know about other events at the church. The Welcome Center is a handy resource where others can learn more about what’s happening at Grace church. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Linda at (509) 834-1185 or (509) 388-5527.

Although HMT’s main focus is inside the church walls, some HMT volunteers work together to extend the love and welcome of Jesus to others in the greater community. Here some HMT volunteers (usually greeters and volunteers at the Welcome Center) working together to make a meal for residents at Camp Hope homeless shelter the first Friday of each month. Another group, many of which serve on HMT, prepare, and deliver a meal to Camp Hope the first Thursday of each month. More meals are needed! Want to help with a meal now or then? Call Linda Sorenson at 509-248-2794.

READY YOURSELF FOR SUNDAYS PRAY

FIVE VERBS FOR EVERY PARISHIONER

• that the Lord will ignite your heart, mind, and spirit to align with His. • that the name of Jesus would be lifted up.

• for the people you will encounter and impact at church.

• for God's blessings as you greet, serve, engage.

OBSERVE

• Notice those you have not seen before.

• Be aware of obstacle points and offer assistance or get help as needed.

INITIATE

• Engage with those you don’t know by introducing yourself to them and them to others.

• Answer questions, offer information and invite to upcoming events or to come again.

• Bless them and offer to prayer with them.

PREPARE

• Be intentional in your approach - smile, make eye contact.

• Be aware of your body language so it is consistent with your words and expression.

SERVE

• Remember, we are all God’s servants.

• Our attitude affects how we come across to others.

• Extend the LORD’s kindness, love, and compassion to all.

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Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry “Equipping disciples to love and serve our neighbors” Grace of Christ is a mission focused church, sharing DROPS OF GRACE locally, nationally and internationally having a global reach. Loving in the name and power of Christ, Grace of Christ truly has a world-wide impact, changing lives for His Kingdom.

The Mission Ministry Team (MMT) maintains interaction with and oversees distribution of funds to more than twenty mission partners and organizations.

‘EVENING OF HOPE’ SLATED FOR YAKIMA UNION GOSPEL MISSION

EVENING OF HOPE: Impact for a Lifetime Thursday | April 21 | 5:30pm | Yakima Valley College Slated for Thursday, April 21st at 5:30pm at the Yakima Valley College Conference Center, Yakima Union Gospel Mission will hold its annual gala, Evening of Hope. Shawn Niles of Fat Pastor Productions (and fame!) will prepare a culinary extravaganza that will carry you through an experience of moving from homelessness into wholeness. The cost of the event is $100 per ticket and 100 percent of your financial contribution will go directly to client programs as Evening of Hope has been underwritten by community shopping and donations at the Mission’s multiple thrift stores.

You won’t want to miss this special event... meanwhile you can support the Mission’s thrift stores by stopping by Summit Thrift located at 56th and Summitview, Mission Thrift at 2011 West Lincoln Avenue or the original store Lighthouse Thrift at 15 South Front Street.

DAY CENTER OPENS AT YAKIMA UNION GOSPEL MISSION Deemed the GOOD NEWS CAFÉ, the Yakima Union Gospel Mission now has a Day Center to offer respite and relief to those wanting a place to warm-up, get coffee or a snack, take a shower (two new showers are located in the lobby), or 14

UGM’s GOOD NEWS CAFE´ Offers Daytime Respite just momentarily get off the streets. The new front entrance of the Mission now includes over 100 storage totes, where clients can safely keep items while they seek a short period of rest. There are also televisions and games for guests to use. The Good News Café is open from 8:00am-8:00pm, offering much welcomed refreshment.

In addition, the YUGM dining room has also been expanded where people can receive a nourishing meal, spend time with others, and find out that Jesus loves you.

For over 85 years, the Yakima Union Gospel Mission (YUGM) has been a light in the darkness, extending hope to our valley’s homeless, hurting, and addicted men, women, and families. And Grace of Grace has had a longstanding relationship with YUGM, starting with its inception.

The YUGM serves clients 24/7, 365 days a year. If you are interested in ways to help out or to volunteer, check out YUGM.org/volunteer. Here, you can set up an account in about ten minutes and then you will be able to look at opportunities to serve. It could be at Good News Café, or maybe the YUGM Medical Center. (Established in 1995, this clinic is the largest free clinic in Washington state. It is devoted to caring for primary medical needs of those experiencing financial restraints and homelessness.) Or, maybe you will choose to help with one of YUGM other programs such as New Life, Bridge or Discovery. There’s also a dental clinic. And you can always help to support Hunger Ends and Hope Begins by contributing just $2.07 per meal to ensure that others receive healthy food, safe shelter, clean clothing, hygiene supplies, recovery programs, counseling and the miraculous, life-changing love of Jesus.

YakimaGrace.com

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Mission Ministry FRIENDS OF MISSIONS TO LAUNCH ON APRIL 27 The Mission Ministry Team (MMT) will be hosting an introduction to FRIENDS OF MISSIONS on April 27th, during the regular Wednesdays at Grace dinner, at 6:00 pm. Are you curious about missions that our church is involved with, but at present cannot commit the time and energy to become a part of MMT full-time? Come check out FRIENDS OF MISSIONS.

HELP US GET KIDS TO ORCA ENCAMPMENT! TRAILSEEKERS DESSERT DASH! Dessert Dash | May 22 | 2:00pm | Grace of Christ

Whale, Whale, Whale... look what we have for you!

TrailSeekers of Central Washington is excited to invite you to our DESSERT DASH. Join us on May 22nd at 2pm in the gym at Grace of Christ Church. We will dash to our favorite desserts to raise much needed funds to take kids from Adams Elementary, Barge Lincoln Elementary, and surrounding areas to Orca Encampment in Coronet Bay this June. Our Dessert Dash is sure to bring you loads of laughs and a bit of cardio as you race for your favorite sugar filled treat.

If you have questions, please contact Aldo Gutierrez at (509-480-7043 or Monnie Miller at (509) 910-1756.

“The goal for Friends of Missions is to come alongside MMT and help with mission outreach events as each has time, interest, and ability,” explains Michele Elledge, MMT committee member and elder.

MMT wants to “Help People Find their Mission and Passion” and to explore ways to boost our missions and mission partners. Maybe you want to go on a Living Waters of the World mission trip and travel to Mexico. Maybe you are interested in Project Mercy’s hospital and school in Ethiopia.

Or, maybe you are home-bound and want to write letters of encouragement to our missionaries. The possibilities are endless. Could you read to a child at Adams Elementary?

Become active with Mi Pueblito? It could be a one-time experience or an ongoing commitment. The choice is yours.

Members of the Mission Ministry Team will be on-hand to share a bit about missions as well as answer any questions that you might have. Please come!

PRAY 24/7 Our desire and purpose for 24/7 is to “set a watch” by connecting with Grace to pray for our Valley one day each month so that we may experience the blessings of God’s promises 24/7 for 365 days of our year. Your prayers matter! Visit https://yakimagrace.com/prayyakima.

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YakimaGrace.com

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Worship Ministry THE SANCTUARY: PULPIT AND LECTERN

The Birth of Protestantism

Why does our sanctuary have those two big pieces of furniture up there at the front of the church? Let’s do a little investigation and see what we can find out.

The birth of Protestantism led to extensive changes in the way Christianity was practiced as well as the design of churches. To the Protestant Reformers the spoken word, the sermon, should be the central act in church worship. In certain Protestant churches the pulpit was centrally located in relation to the congregation. It is said that John Calvin was so insistent on having the sermon be the focus of the church service that the had his pulpit nailed to the middle of the floor so that it could not be moved to the side.

Pulpits

The Grace of Christ Pulpit Was Given in Memory of Pastor John M. Gordon

The word pulpit comes from the Latin pulpitum meaning platform or step.

This raised platform was originally used to read the Gospel and Epistle. One of the earliest references to the pulpit is from a letter written by early church leader Cyprian around the year 250 AD and another early church leader, John Chrysostrom (357-407AD) is recorded as preaching from one.

As we move through church history, we find pulpits in construction in early churches in the 300s and 400s, but in the medieval period the pulpit gets set aside for the altar, or communion table, as the church service comes to put greater emphasis on the Mass. The elevated platform now becomes focused on the altar and the pulpit and lectern are moved to the side where the Gospel and homily were read from the pulpit and the Epistle was read from the lectern.

Lecterns Some Protestant churches also returned to having two raised platforms placed on The Lectern at Grace of both sides of the altar with Christ Church Was Given in the pulpit being the more Memory of O.P. Strom prominent and placed on the Gospel side where the Gospel was read, and the sermon delivered while the lectern was located on the Epistle side and used for lessons and other readings. In many Protestant churches the pulpit is the largest piece of furniture in the Sanctuary. This is to symbolize that the Word of God is the central focus of the worship service, that preaching from the word of God should be the foundation of Christian worship.

Open Platform, Contemporary Music & Seating Aimee Semple McPherson, a Canadian Pentecostal evangelist and media celebrity, appeared in the early years of the Pentecostal movement in the 1920s and 1930s, and founded the Foursquare Church. She is considered to be one of the earliest to design a church service based on an open platform, contemporary music and theater seating. Her dynamic style of preaching, use of the media and new design concept gradually grew in favor as it was considered to be new, modern and more attractive and has become more and more common in the church in the last 100 years.

Grace of Christ Pulpit and Lectern The pulpit in our sanctuary was given as a memorial gift in the memory of Pastor John M. Gordon and the lectern was given as a memorial gift in the memory of O.P. Strom.

Soli Deo Gloria, Duncan McRayde 16

YakimaGrace.com

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Women’s Ministry

WOMEN’S BUNCO NIGHT

UNEARTH YOUR DESTINY

Wednesdays | April 27-June 8 | 6:45pm | Fireside Room Ladies! It’s spring and Women’s Ministry is in full bloom! We have just finished Igniting Your Faith–Your Life, a Monday morning Bible study led by Robin Stuber. God used this study powerfully through His Word, fresh and solid teaching, and testimonies that ignited our faith and lives.

On April 27th, Wednesdays@Grace will kick-off a new Women’s Ministry series with Robin Stuber, Kathy Bricel, Sandy MacKenzie, Julie Grove and Carla Kupp. The seven week series, Unearth Your Destiny, will focus on the gifts and annointings of the Holy Spirit.

Thursday | May 19 | 5:30pm | Garden Room Need an evening out of the house in May? We are planning a women’s Bunko and fellowship night on Thursday, May 19th, from 5:30pm to 8pm in the Garden Room. A chance for women to come together and roll the dice. Appetizers and dessert are provided and childcare is available. This will be an evening to catch up with old friends and get to know some new. If you have not played Bunko, it is an easy and fun game. There will be fun and plenty of laughter – mark your calendars!

If you want more information about Women’s Ministry, you can find it on the church website (yakimagrace.com). Under the “CONNECT” tab, go to “WOMEN.”

Announcements

SPRING SESSION OF WEDNESDAYS@GRACE

Wednesday Dinner & Classes | 6:00 pm | Gym We have some great options for everyone this spring on Wednesday nights. Dinner is served at 6:00pm in the gym and we’d love to see you there! After dinner the options include: Curt will be leading a viewing and discussion of selected videos from The Chosen series (Adult Ed Room). Women’s ministry will offer a series focusing on our gifts & anointings of the Holy Spirit (The Chapel). Youth group hangs out in the Youth Room – right next to the gym (middle school and high school) and we have classes for kids (2nd floor KidZone Room)! Childcare is also available. Our spring session will be April 27th through June 8th.

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MEN’S BREAKFAST

Men’s Breakfast | Saturday | May 14 | 7:30 am | Gym Hey guys! Mark your calendars – there will be a men’s breakfast on Saturday, May 14 at 7:30am in the church gym. A very hearty (and delicious) meal and good conversation with the guys. A great way to start the weekend. (No gathering in April.)

Men of all ages are welcome – bring your sons or grandsons, friend from work, and your neighbor! Please let the church office know if you want to help cook & set-up or help clean up afterwards.

YakimaGrace.com

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Ghormley

Mother Daughter

RETREAT

REGISTER ONLINE | APRIL 29 – MAY 1

WINTER RECAP

After a slow 2020 and 2021 due to COVID, it has been a joy to see camp filled with people once again! We have enjoyed a busy winter season, with abundant snowfall in January which has given our groups ideal snow conditions throughout the winter. Guest groups have repeatedly remarked how great it is to be back at camp! We also hosted two of our own events in January and February. In January we hosted our first Young Adult Retreat and were thrilled to host 11 young adults for a weekend of worship, teaching, and fun! One attendee called it “absolutely amazing” and said it was awesome to come to a retreat that was truly focused on spiritual growth and not just having fun. In February, we welcomed back our annual High School Retreat! The theme of the weekend was “Life to the full” from John 10:10. Students dove deep and asked great questions about the meaning of life and how the Gospel gives meaning to life and the issues we face. Students had fun sledding, playing games, and had a late-night karaoke party!

MOTHER DAUGHTER RETREAT Join us for Ghormley’s Annual Mother Daughter Retreat, coming the weekend of April 29 - May 1! This is a weekend for mothers and daughters to spend intentional time with each other to have fun, learn, make friends, and further develop their relationships with God and each other. There will be a speaker and worship time, crafts and games, good food, and other fun activities! For more information, or to register, please visit our website: https://www.campghormley.com/family-events/mother-daughter-retreat-weekend/

ONLINE GIVING

We are so blessed by those who support the ministry of Ghormley financially! In these difficult COVID times, regular donor support is a key lifeline to the Lord’s work continuing here at camp. If you’d like to see what support opportunities we currently have, please visit www.campghormley.com/donate. Thank you!

PRAYER NEEDS

• Pray that God would bring groups to fill our school year calendar.

• Pray that God would supply the staff we need to operate at full capacity this summer.

• Pray that God would pave the way for the completion of several important building projects over the course of this year.

• Pray that relationships will be built, lives changed & every person who comes to Camp Ghormley will encounter Jesus.

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SUMMER CAMP 2022 Summer 2022 is coming soon! Register now for an amazing summer filled with worship, games, friends, laughter, and a lifetime of memories! Register now at campghormley.com

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

Grace of Christ Presbyterian Church

Sunday Services & Calendar of Events JOIN US FOR WORSHIP SUNDAY MORNINGS!

9:00am

9:00am Youth 9:15am

11:00am

Communion

Prayer

DATE

Contemporary style worship, classes for children of all ages, childcare available Grace Kids Youth Breakfast Club Digging Deeper – hour long, adult Bible study. All are welcome! (Lounge) Traditional style worship with choir and pipe organ, childcare available.

Served the First Sunday of each month at both services (9:00am & 11:00am) Available at the front of the sanctuary after each service

Sun, April 3 Sun, April 3 April 4 - 8 Thur, April 7 Thur, April 7 Sat, April 9 Sat, April 9 Sun, April 10 Sun, April 10 Sun, April 10 Sun, April 10 Tue, April 12 Tue, April 12 Thur, April 14 Fri, April 15 Sun, April 17 Sun, April 17 Thur, April 20

Fri, April 22 Sat, April 23 Sun, April 24 Tue, April 26 Tue, April 26 Wed, April 27 Wed, April 27 Thur, April 28 Sat, April 30 Sun, May 1 Tue, May 3 Tue, May 3 Sun, May 8 Sun, May 8 Sun, May 8 Sun, May 8 Tue, May 10 Tue, May 10 Thur, May 19 Sun, May 22 Sun, May 22 Tue, May 24 Sun, May 29 Sun, May 29 Mon, May 30 19

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT GRACE MONDAYS 6:30pm Divorce Care

7:00pm Men’s BSF TUESDAYS 9:45am WOW - Women’s Bible Study

6:00pm Youth Worship Band Rehearsal WEDNESDAYS 6:00pm Wed@Grace Dinner & Classes 6:00pm Choir Rehearsal THURSDAYS 9:15am Women’s BSF 3:45pm Gospel Kids Rehearsal 6:00pm Worship Band Rehearsal MON–FRIDAY 9:00am Preschool

EVENT

WHEN

Communion Sunday 9:00am & 11:00am Hospitality Ministry Training 1:00pm Preschool Spring Break Youth Lock-In 5:00pm Starry Starry Nights Classical Concert 7:00pm Men’s Breakfast 7:30am Grace Kids Rehearsal (for Palm Sun) & Pizza!

5:30pm Palm Sunday / Kids Sing 9:00am & 11:00am Fireside Chat with Pastors After 9 & 11 Services Women’s Ministry Team Meeting 10:20am Deacon’s Meeting 12:30pm Business Ministry Team Meeting 4:00pm Mission Ministry Team Meeting 4:30pm Maundy Thursday Service 7:30pm Good Friday Service 12pm - 1:00pm Easter Sunday - Sonrise Service 6:00am Worship Services 9:00am & 11:00am Movie Night “The Most Reluctant Convert” 6:00pm Purchase Tickets at YakimaGrace.com/CSLewis New Members Class part 1 (dinner served) 5:30pm - 7:30pm New Members Class part 2 (brunch served) 9:00am - 12:00pm Welcome New Members/Baptism Sunday Both Services Preschool Spring Tea 11:00am Session Meeting 6:30pm Weds@Grace Kick Off for 7 weeks 6:00pm dinner Friends of Mission Presentation at Wednesday Dinner Adams Teacher Appreciation Dinner 6:00pm Session Retreat 9:00am - 2:00pm Communion Sunday Hospitality Ministry Team Meeting 4:00pm Worship Ministry Team Meeting 5:30pm Happy Mother’s Day Fireside Chat with Pastors After 9 & 11 Services Women’s Ministry Team Meeting 10:20am Deacon’s Meeting 12:30pm Business Ministry Team Meeting 4:00pm Mission Ministry Team Meeting 4:30pm Women’s Bunco & Appetizers 5:30pm Gospel Pres & Gospel Kid lead worship 9:00am & 11:00am Trailseeker Dessert Auction & Program 2:00pm Session Meeting 6:30pm Memorial Day Remembrance During Service 100th Birthday Celebration for Peggy Riley Between Services Memorial Day / Church Closed

YakimaGrace.com

WHERE

Sanctuary Garden Room

Gym Sanctuary Gym Sanctuary/Fireside Rm Sanctuary Fireside Room Adult Ed Room Lounge Library Adult Ed Room Sanctuary Sanctuary North Lawn Sanctuary Chapel Fireside Room Fireside Room Sanctuary Garden Room Room 217 Gym 6:00pm Gym Gym Room 217 Lounge Garden Room Fireside Room Adult Ed Room Lounge Library Adult Ed Room Garden Room Sanctuary Gym Room 217 Garden Room

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