Compass 12 by Jessica Ripley

ISSUE 12 | November 2014-April 2015

FEELING FORGOTTEN P. 04 ACCORDING TO PLAN P. 12 A SECOND CHANCE P. 18

FROM PASTOR JESSE PREVAIL. A powerful word that speaks to overcoming adversity, opposition and severe disappointment. This issue of the COMPASS is a collection of real-life stories from people in our church that are beginning to understand what it means to prevail against some hard times. They aren’t heroes or super-Christians. They’re just ordinary people like you and me who have faced some pretty tough stuff. Somehow, because of their faith and reliance on Jesus, they’re learning to weather the storms of life. Their responses to trials haven’t been perfect or without times of doubt but God has been teaching them that He does give strength to those who ask Him. JESSE SMITH I pray that in these pages you’ll find encouragement to not

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mark Shetler EDITOR Melissa Shetler EXECUTIVE DESIGN Jessica Ripley PHOTOGRAPHY Sandy Runner CONTRIBUTORS Jonathan Armstrong, Jane Daly, Lindsey Edwards, Jennifer Renfrow, Mark Shetler, Holly Smith, Mary Van Hoomissen, Robin Waldron

SENIOR PASTOR give up when life seems to collapse around you. Reach out

to Jesus. He may not take away the problem or the difficult circumstance, but He is faithful to walk with you.

The COMPASS also has lots of information about the variety of programs and events available at our church. First Cov is a great place to help you get to know Jesus more. I hope you’ll take the next step to get connected to our church family. If you have any questions, or if you need someone to talk to, please feel free to call our office. God bless you. I hope you enjoy this issue of the COMPASS magazine.

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? Did you like this issue? Did a particular article stick out to you? Interested in contributing to the next issue? Whatever it is, we want to hear from you! Send us your feedback by emailing compass@firstcov.org or post a comment to our page at facebook.com/firstcov.

THE PURP OSE of

FIRST COVENANT CHURCH OF SACRAMENTO is to be a

MISSION STATION to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ

WITH EVERY PERSON EVERYWHERE

THE COMPASS IS A PUBLICATION OF First Covenant Church of Sacramento P.O. Box 276450 Sacramento, CA 95827 916.861.2240 • www.firstcov.org

ABOUT THE COMPASS

COMPASS Magazine is First Cov's quarterly publication. In a church our size, it can be an overwhelming task to meet everyone and know everything that is happening. The COMPASS serves as a platform to bring our church family closer together. Within its pages, you will find true stories about the people and ministries of First Cov. And, most importantly, it will help guide you farther along The Path to becoming a fullydevoted follower of Jesus Christ.

CONTENTS

04 • Feeling Forgotten 05 • Prayer as Procrastination 06 • I’m Scared Everything’s Changing 08 • A Glimpse of Joy 08 • Starting Over 12 • According to Plan 14 • Still Growing 16 • To Be Used By Christ 18 • A Second Chance

and to grow and equip believers

INTO FULLY DEVOTED FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST.

COMPASS MAGAZINE

For more information on these ministries, as well as Equipping Classes and Growth Groups, visit firstcov.org.

SUNDAY

WORSHIP KIDS FIRST ON EAGLES WINGS (SPECIAL NEEDS) SOLAS (YOUNG ADULTS)

TUESDAY

MOM’S CONNECTION MOSAIC (SENIOR ADULTS) RENOVATE (HIGH SCHOOL) YOUNG PROFESSIONALS (24-34ISH)

WEDNESDAY

IDENTITY (MIDDLE SCHOOL) MEN’S MINISTRIES WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

THURSDAY

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES CELEBRATE RECOVERY CHOIR

COMING SOON ON EAGLE’S WINGS | DECEMBER 20 Respite night for families with special needs children and their siblings. 4-6:30 p.m. in Room 103. Contact oneagleswings@firstcov.org. DANCE STUDIO CHRISTMAS PERFORMANCE | DECEMBER 13 Children, youth and adults from our Dance Studio will help put you in the holiday spirit with their performance, “These Are a Few of My Favorite Christmas Things”. See ad on page 11. YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OLD TOWN COUNTRY CHRISTMAS | DECEMBER 13 Enjoy Auburn’s holiday tradition with friends from First Cov. Contact Jessica at jripley@firstcov.org. MOSAIC CHRISTMAS BRUNCH | DECEMBER 16 All seniors are invited to a delicious holiday potluck brunch featuring carolers from our preschool and a message on the Christmas story from Pastor Ted. 9:30 a.m. in Room 200. Contact Suzanne at spennington@firstcov.org. COOKIES AND CAROLS | DECEMBER 18 Our preschool children present a delightful Christmas program at 6:30 p.m. Contact Dawn at djeske@firstcov.org. RANCHO CORDOVA ORCHESTRA & FIRST COV CHOIR CONCERT | DECEMBER 19 Enjoy the sounds of the season as our choir joins the community light orchestra for a concert for the whole family at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.rcclo.com for more information. YOUNG PROFESSIONALS CHRISTMAS PARTY | DECEMBER 19 Celebrate the season with other young professionals at this informal but funfilled event. Contact Jessica at jripley@firstcov.org. CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP | DECEMBER 24 Candlelight worship services for the whole family at 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. Please bring a gift for the Birthday Party for Jesus (to be used at next year’s Christmas Mall). See ad on back cover. IDENTITY (MIDDLE SCHOOL) WINTER CAMP | JANUARY 9-11 Middle school students will have a wildly wonderful winter experience at this weekend retreat at Sugar Pine Christian Camp in Oakhurst, CA. Contact Patricia at pmiguel@firstcov.org. WOMEN’S CREATE AND CONNECT | JANUARY 10, FEBRUARY 21, MARCH 14, APRIL 25 Ladies, bring your craft or scrapbooking project and supplies to the Chapel and enjoy making some new friends. We meet in the Chapel, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and ask you to bring a snack to share. GROWTH GROUPS | JANUARY 11–MARCH 21 Growth groups meet in neighborhoods throughout the greater Sacramento area. It’s a great way to connect to the First Cov family. Contact Suzanne at spennington@firstcov.org. CHOSEN ONES | JANUARY 18, FEBRUARY 15, MARCH 15 Join other families who have fostered or adopted children, or who are interested in fostering or adopting, for conversation, information and encouragement. Contact chosenones@firstcov.org. WINTER EQUIPPING CLASSES | JANUARY 18–FEBRUARY 22 We offer a variety of classes at various times throughout the week to help equip you to be a fully devoted follower of Christ. Visit firstcov.org/equipping for class descriptions.

WOMEN’S MINISTRY & MEN’S MINISTRY MID-WEEK EQUIPPING CLASSES JANUARY 21–MARCH 11 Great biblical teaching, small group discussions and personal encouragement for your life. Visit firstcov.org/equipping for class descriptions. CONGREGATIONAL MEETING | JANUARY 25 Join us for lunch at 12:45 p.m. in the Gym and then participate in an uplifting meeting that includes worship, prayer, ministry reports from department heads and information about plans for our church body. Contact Suzanne at spennington@firstcov.org. RENOVATE (HIGH SCHOOL) WINTER RUSH | JANUARY 30–FEBRUARY 1 High school students will have a blast with amazing events and an opportunity to make new friends. Contact Patricia at pmiguel@firstcov.org. CHILDREN’S BAPTISM CLASS | FEBRUARY 8, 15 AND 22 Elementary-aged children learn about the meaning of baptism in preparation for Baptism Sunday. Contact Dustin at dlarsen@firstcov.org. STUDENT MINISTRIES BAPTISM CLASS | FEBRUARY 15 Middle school and high school students interested in baptism should attend this one-day class. Contact Patricia at pmiguel@firstcov.org. NEW MEMBER CLASS | FEBRUARY 22 Want to find out more about who we are and what we believe? Join us for this informative class on Sunday afternoon with lunch provided. Those who choose to join the church will also need to attend a testimony day on March 8. Contact Suzanne at spennington@firstcov.org. WINTER SANCTUARY | FEBRUARY 22–25, MARCH 1-6 Help other members of First Cov in providing a delicious dinner, a safe place to sleep and a chance to connect for approximately 100 homeless individuals from our community. Contact Jennifer at jraynes@firstcov.org. HAVEN BANQUET | FEBRUARY 27 A business-casual gala with great food, entertainment and silent and live auctions. Proceeds benefit families in need in our community. See ad on page 7. BAPTISM SUNDAY | MARCH 1 If you love Jesus and would like to be baptized, please contact Carolyn at cmelville@firstcov.org. JIMBOYS FUNDRAISER | MARCH 22 Support our Mexicali team on their Global Outreach trip during spring break. Contact Kellee at kbaker@firstcov.org. PRAYER EXPERIENCE | APRIL 2-3 Prepare your heart for the true meaning of Easter by participating in this self-guided, interactive prayer experience. It is a deeply moving event open to individuals and families. Contact Patricia at pmiguel@firstcov.org. EASTER WORSHIP | APRIL 4-5 Invite your friends and family to join you for our powerful Easter worship services. Visit www.firstcov.org/easter2015. SOMETHING NEW | APRIL 12 Keep your ears and eyes open for exciting news about what God is doing in our church family! WWW.FIRSTCOV.ORG

Feeling Forgot ten BY ANONYMOUS

The COMPASS editor asked if I would be willing to submit an article about things not going according to plan. But the assignment included an instruction to keep it lighthearted because of the serious content in this issue. I thought, “Okay, well, I can keep it surface level and apply my incredible humor to whatever I write.” But keeping things surface level is not me. I enjoy relationship and community and see vulnerability as a necessity. When I think about things not going according to plan, the first thing that comes to mind is the fact that I am 33, still single with no children. I’m not sure how to keep this topic light as it tends to be the thing that breaks my heart most days. I frequently question if I missed some step in life and/or wonder if something is wrong with me. My plan was to go to college where I would meet my future husband, get married by the time I was 25 and have an undetermined number of children by the time I was 30. It was a good plan in my opinion. I didn’t see any flaws in it. It was so perfect that I tried several times to make it happen. The problem was that I was trying to make God fit into my timing versus letting His timing work for me. Have you heard the assertion, “Perspective is reality?” My reality has been watching my friends get married and have kids while it has seemed that I was forgotten. It’s easier to focus on the things I do not have instead of the things I do have. It’s also easier to think that somewhere along the line I messed up God’s grand plan for me because of the poor choices I made in my life. When I was in my mid-twenties, the norm for my Christian friends seemed to be marriage and the joy of parenthood. I did not fit into the norm at that time, and often times it doesn’t feel like I do now. So I find myself asking two questions: 1) Why do I constantly try to be something I am not? 2) Do I really trust God’s plan for my life? Question 1 is a can of worms for another time. Question 2…I know the answer is supposed to be yes. I didn’t go to years of Sunday School to not learn the right answers. But to be honest, my answer would probably be no. No, but I do want to trust God’s plan. It’s scary to give up your dreams and the things you desire most. There have been numerous tear-filled nights in which I screamed silently, wrestling with the reality that life hasn’t turned out the way I wanted it to. Sometimes it’s easier to focus on what has broken me down instead of who I have become through that brokenness. And it is definitely easier to be mad at God and throw a tantrum (33-year olds do it better than any two year old—we have years of practice) than to appreciate the many unique opportunities I have had while being single. My perspective and my reality have had to do a little adjusting over the last several years. And would you believe that I’ve had to learn a little bit of humility as well? I had to shift my mentality from “woe is me” to learning to be thankful. As a realist, that is no easy feat because it means having to be honest with myself and the not so good choices I have made. It also means recognizing that this is where God has me right now and it may be where he has me forever. Although it was not my plan, I cannot think of a time when God has disappointed me. Come to think of it, I cannot even think of a time where a bad decision I have made has not turned into something good. Maybe that means I am lucky, but I think it means Someone cares about me. Someone big! And that Someone hasn’t forgotten me, not once.

COMPASS MAGAZINE

BY MARY VAN HOOMISSEN

“Pray-crastinating” is a word I’ve created to describe those times when I have used prayer as an excuse for inaction. Instead of doing what I know the Lord has called me to do, I simply say that I will pray about it and avoid the discomfort of obedience. A few years ago I had come to the realization that I needed to step into an area of service for Him, but at first I honestly did not know where to use my gifts. One day I received a mass mailer advertisement about Sacramento County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for children in the foster system. The mailer explained that a CASA is a volunteer mentor who is matched with a child in foster care and who would offer emotional and moral support to that child for a minimum of one year. No matter how many placement changes the child experienced, the CASA would be the one person in the child’s life that was not mandated by the court and who would be a consistent presence in his or her life. Wow, my heart was excited! I knew this was what God wanted me to do. But when I discovered that the requirements included time for training, as well as attending the child’s court hearings, I reconsidered. “Bummer, I thought this is what you wanted me to do God!” For so many of my “logical” reasons, I knew this wasn’t going to work. I have a full-time job and my evenings are busy with Growth Group, Bible study and an exercise routine. The more I thought about it the more I concluded that since I’m single and have no children of my own I wasn’t really equipped for this kind of service. So I fell into my habit of pray-crastination. A few months later, the same mailer showed up in my mailbox. I knew that I was being called, but the fear of not just the unknown, but the known, held me back. I would have to reorder my priorities.

i knew that I was being called, but the fear of not just the unknown, but the known, held me back. I would have to reorder my priorities. As a single person, my time has been my own. Becoming a CASA would change that. I decided to pray about this some more. During this time, First Cov had become involved in the fight against human trafficking. Through a guest speaker, I learned that because of freeway access, Sacramento is one of the top cities in the country for the human trafficking of children. I heard that the majority of the “supply” group is runaway foster kids. The speaker suggested that one of the best ways Christians could combat this heinous injustice is to become involved in the CASA program. No more pray-crastinating! With stomach butterflies and no idea how God was going to work out all the logistics, I signed up for the next CASA training class. It was an incredibly uncomfortable and exciting place to be. The training prepared us well for this new role. I learned that I could overcome all of the obstacles that I had feared. A few months later I was sworn in by the court and assigned my first CASA child. She was 13 at the time. She was struggling academically, had anger issues and ran away more than once. Our relationship took a lot of work. When we first met, she was not interested in having another person “in her business.” One day she said, “I don’t have to have a relationship with you!” I agreed with her but I told her I was there if she decided she wanted one. After months of texting back and forth, she began to be open to the idea of meeting again. As trust began to develop, we spent more time together. She enjoyed riding along the bike trail. We rarely talked as we rode. She’d set the pace and would get lost in her own little world. I just followed along behind her in silence. One day, riding around the lake, we stopped for a

water break. She quietly said, “When I’m riding out here all my anger goes away.” Joy, unspeakable joy! What a humbling privilege for God to allow me to be there in that moment. At that moment, all the selfish logistics I had previously been worried about paled in the light of His power and plan. Obedience had brought indescribable blessing to my life. This young girl is officially out of the system because of her adoption by her foster mother. We stay in touch. Recently I met with the CASA social worker to be assigned a new child. In Sacramento County alone there are over 70 children, most between the ages of 14 and 19, waiting to be assigned a CASA. Some have been on the waiting list for a year. There just aren’t enough CASAs to go around. It reminds me of the truth of Jesus’ words when He said, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field,” (Matthew 9:37-38, NIV). Being a CASA has challenged me and changed me. I have learned, and am learning, the sacrifice and the joy of serving. Do I still pray-crastinate? Honestly? Yeah, sometimes, but I am slowly learning that obedience is a much better path to take. Mary Van Hoomissen has been attending First Covenant for 13 years. She has enjoyed participating in various ministries throughout the years. Currently she serves as a substitute usher and with hospitality for the Bridges outreach. She’s a mountain girl at heart and enjoys backpacking, hiking, cycling, triathlons and is a definite outdoor “gear geek”.

WWW.FIRSTCOV.ORG

HELP MAKE SOMEONE’S CHRISTMAS MERRY AND BRIGHT. Volunteer at the Christmas Mall! Our Christmas Mall provides a shopping experience for families in need in our community. If you would like to take part in this opportunity to bless others, visit firstcov.org/mall and click on the volunteer button.

I’M SCARED

EVERYTHING’S CHANGING

never buy the new iPhone when it’s first released. I don’t like the thought of having to become familiar with all the new features when my current phone is working just fine for me. I don’t download the new IOS when it debuts. I’m sure there’s going to be some kind of glitch that I don’t want to be a part of any way. It’s been almost a year since we updated our television service with wireless receivers (which my wife had to convince me was a good idea). But the new receivers came with new remotes that I still haven’t learned how to use exactly. When I want to see a recorded episode of “Chopped” or “Cutthroat Kitchen” I hand the device to Melissa to retrieve the desired programming. Recently the church office received a new phone system to replace the archaic one that has been here since we first moved into the building. We had a staff meeting with a company rep to show us how to operate the new phones. I still haven’t figured out how to record a greeting for my extension. So here, I admit it publically—I am afraid of technological changes. I know I am electronically challenged. I am convinced that new devices, gadgets and apparatuses are demon-possessed, so I’ll cling to my old phone until it breaks, peer pressure forces me to upgrade or an exorcism takes place.

COMPASS MAGAZINE

BY MARK SHETLER

change in your job description or the new co-worker that is hired to sit at the cubicle next to you. Perhaps as you watch your kids grow older you worry because things will never be the same as when they were young. Or possibly it’s the changes in the mirror that frighten you the most, as if your fading youth is a catastrophe. Maybe when your Growth Group leaders announce that the group is going to “multiply” and split into two because of numerical growth you grumble that the closeness you’ve all had is now ruined. And it’s possible that the idea of changing the name of our church feels like a nightmare to you. But resistance to change doesn’t mesh with the creative character of our God. “In the beginning, God created…” and He has never stopped creating. Since those opening scenes of history new species have sprung into existence, stars have been born (as well as billions of human babies with distinctive DNA and personalities), and wonders like the Grand Canyon have been carved by His fingers. Each winter He creates zillions of snowflakes, each unique and intricate. Then each spring, buds appear on trees and vines, and tulips and crocuses emerge from the sleeping ground.

In the bigger issues of life, change can cause us to squirm, run away or hide under the covers. One of the plagues of the human condition is that we tend to see any challenge of the status quo as a threat to our What I’m trying to say is, God delights safety and security. Maybe you fear a in His role as Creator, and that

means that there’s always stuff around us, and in us, that’s changing. Change doesn’t have to be bad. In fact, change for the believer is a good thing. Paul reminds us that, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV). He takes us in our broken, deteriorated, sinfully human state and creates us anew to live as His children.

Hear the words of your Loving Father, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18-19, NIV). Nothing that is happening to you is a surprise to the Master. It might not be pleasant. It might not be easy. But you can trust But that’s not the end of the story. Him that ultimately what He is doing “He who began a good work in you is creating something even better in your life. will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ An old hymn we used Jesus (Philippians 1:6, to sing when I was NIV). Did you catch ...RESISTANCE TO growing up says, “On that? While He Christ the solid rock already made us CHANGE DOESN’T I stand; all other a new creation MESH WITH THE ground is sinking at the moment sand.” The way we all we said “yes” to CREATIVE CHARACTER need to face change Jesus, He is still OF OUR GOD. is to plant our feet on working on us. Jesus, the One who is And He won’t stop “the same yesterday and working on us until today and forever” (Hebrews Jesus returns. Embracing change is part of what it means to 13:8, NIV). That way we know we’re going to be ok, no matter what follow Jesus. changes we face. So what kind of changes is the Creator God bringing into your life right now? All right. I’ll go figure out how to Maybe the situation you are facing is record a greeting on this newunsettling. Perhaps you have no idea fangled phone on my desk. how this is going to work out, or what good could possibly come from the In his spare time, Mark enjoys new circumstances surrounding you. early morning workouts, cooking You may be really scared, frustrated dinner for his lovely bride, or depressed about the changes. And playing Words with Friends and vacationing on the coast. that’s ok. Reach out and grab hold of the hand of Jesus. He’ll be with you through the season of change, as long as it lasts, as frightening as it might be. He won’t let go of you. WWW.FIRSTCOV.ORG

Joy

A Glimpse of

It’s a weird thing to be pregnant.

You take a test and logically you know there’s a human in you but nothing else seems different, at least not at first. You walk around telling everyone and anyone that will listen that you’re going to be a mom. Still, on the inside, you can’t wrap your head around it. At least that’s how things seemed to work for me. My connection with my child was a logical one through the early stages of my pregnancy. I lacked the overwhelming emotions that so many other moms seemed to

BY HOLLY SMITH

experience…until I found out that our baby was no longer alive. It was then that my world came crashing down. My grief was deep. It consumed me and I began to discover exactly how attached I had become. As I was prepped for surgery, a surgery I didn’t ever expect or want, I remember lying in pre-op crying. I would rather keep my dead baby in me then have it taken out. These were my last few minutes of being one with him. I needed to tell him I loved him. I asked the doctor to allow me to have a few moments to say those words to him once he was removed. She tried to discourage me by telling me that “it” wouldn’t look the way I was anticipating it. I

Starting Over BY JENNIFER RENFROW

Driving a U-Haul loaded with everything I owned, my sister by my side and Texas in the rear view mirror, I had a lot of time to reflect. For seven and a half years I was in full time youth ministry under the same senior pastor. But, in what seemed like a split second, it was over. There were things that I knew clearly as I drove towards “home”, to California on Route 66: I was saved by the blood of Christ, my life purpose is found in Jesus and God had called me to give my life in ministry for Him.

COMPASS MAGAZINE

For six years, I led the youth ministry at a spiritually thriving church in a small Northwest Texas town. Then the pastor I worked for moved to a larger church in a college town in another part of the state and he asked me to join him. Together we saw the opportunity to bring our gifts and graces, as a team, to lift Jesus up. The pastor, his wife and their three children were like family to me from the day I stepped onto Texas soil. Now, stepping into this new ministry and body of Christ, I anticipated their love and support to continue. There were many people in this new congregation watching to see if I could step into the shoes of their former beloved youth minister. They were watching, it seemed, for me to fail. Within months, the watching turned into grumbling: “She’s not dynamic enough,” “She’s not like the last guy,” “She’s changing too many things,” “We don’t like her,” “She won’t let us have fun,” “We want her gone.” To my profound sadness and

didn’t care. As I continued to plead with her, she further discouraged me by saying that “it” would resemble chopped up hamburger meat. I didn’t care what “it” looked like or what “it” resembled. It was my child, my precious child to whom I would never again get the chance to hold and express my love. Her excuses continued until, in my emotional and weary state, I submitted to her judgment. I woke up from surgery, no longer pregnant. To many it might seem twisted that I had longed to keep a deceased baby inside of me, but I did want that. I deeply missed this person that I had never known. I had no desire to hide my anger or my grief. I was mad and so, so sad. I remember later sitting on the floor of my bedroom in the dark crying. As I processed my anger aloud to God I cynically asked, “Where is the joy in this?” God reminded me of Galatians 5:22-23. When we receive Jesus he supernaturally instills in us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness

surprise, my dear friend and pastor also turned his back on me, making painful statements that were untrue. He ultimately asked me to leave. Just like that the door that God had opened was closed. I would have to depend on Him for the outcome. I realized the best thing for all involved was for me to step aside. Significant relationships ended. I was, as described by the Psalmist, one of the brokenhearted.

I ARGUED WITH GOD, YELLING

“I don’t feel joyful!” and self-control. Those qualities (yes, including joy) are not based on our circumstances. They are always present. I argued with God, yelling “I don’t feel joyful!” The Lord gently spoke, “Joy isn’t a feeling, Holly, because feelings are based on circumstances. The joy I give you is everlasting and exists in all circumstances.”

a glimpse of joy. I couldn’t find it in my circumstances, nor in my empty crib, and certainly not in a bundle in my arms. But, Jesus was right. There was joy. I found it in the way our First Cov family cared for us. I was still experiencing pain, but I had discovered a glimpse of joy even in that pain. The joy that I experienced came from people at First Cov. Although we mourned privately, we knew that people were praying for us. They sent us cards. They graciously gave us the space to mourn. All of that helped me to cope, to grow through the grief. Thank you, First Cov, for being our joy when the circumstances were so dark.

“Well, I don’t see the joy, Jesus!” I exclaimed.

Holly is a mother of three amazing kids, not to mention the Senior Pastor’s wife. She works at Capital Christian School as a Life Skills Counselor. She is into shopping, mentoring high school students, talking, drinking coffee and winning! Holly serves with Kids First and is a Growth Group Leader.

Jesus assured me, “There is joy. Look hard.” At that moment, I closed my eyes and sifted through my pain. I dissected everything we were experiencing. Finally, when I was about to give up, I uncovered

What was once a bunch of broken pieces has now come together to create the blessed mosaic of my life.

Route 66 was taking me back to California. I needed to start over. What in the world was I going to do? I was thirty-three years old and moving back in with parents. Brokenness permeated my soul as I made the journey. I was reminded of the brokenness that Jesus experienced for me. He experienced rejection by those who had been his followers. His body was broken on the cross so that I could be healed. He would continue to be my constant, my hope. I would discover His amazing hand of healing through the love of family and friends who welcomed me back with open arms. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” (Psalm 147:3, NIV). One foot in front of the other, I started over. With Jesus leading the way, I stepped into new opportunities. I realized the powerful truth offered in Henri Nouwen’s The Wounded Healer, “Hope prevents us from clinging to what we have and frees us to move away from the safe place and enter unknown and fearful territory.” I began to recognize that I had hope to offer others because I had grown through pain. Through the grace of Jesus, I was becoming a wounded healer.

I started a new job with a non-profit agency. I worked with kids and families who had encountered potholes on the journey of their lives. I was able to listen with empathy, to teach some important life skills and to cheer families on as they pursued healthy choices. This wounded healer was finding a new place to serve.

As I stepped into the brokenness of other peoples’ lives, my own life was being rebuilt. I became appropriately vulnerable and able to walk alongside others who were hurting, pointing to the healing at the cross. I realized that I didn’t need to drive away from the pain and the brokenness of my life, but rather hold that experience tightly so that I could experience healing while offering healing to others. Twelve years later, I am truly awed and humbled at His work in me and through me. What was once a bunch of broken pieces has now come together to create the blessed mosaic of my life. Part of my healing even included a journey back to Texas to reconcile the relationships with the pastor and his family. Healing can come to the brokenhearted. Healing can come when you are willing to start over. Jennifer is a Clinical Program Manager with EMQ Families First working with kids and families in the community. Jennifer loves to scrapbook and hike in California’s vast beauty. She is also busy planning her upcoming wedding, as a newly engaged lady to Scott MacKinnon!

WWW.FIRSTCOV.ORG

CLASSIC WORSHIP SERVICE Sundays at 8:30 a.m.

MODERN WORSHIP SERVICES Sundays at 10 and 11:30 a.m.

A 4-WEEK SERMON SERIES LOOKING AT WHAT THE PROPHETS SAID ABOUT THE MESSIAH. BEGINS NOVEMBER 30.

ACCORDING TO PLAN BY ROBIN WALDRON

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails,” (Proverbs 19:21, NIV). Every day, whether consciously or unconsciously, we all make plans. We plan which clothes to put on, what we will eat for dinner or what time we will go to the movies. Some days we make bigger plans—to change jobs, sell a house or get married. Plans help us function in life and can give us a sense of security, purpose and direction. However, the reality is that no matter how much we plan, we really aren’t in control of the outcome. In small and large ways, life can take unexpected turns. Several years ago life did take a large and unexpected turn for Palmer and Donna Lee. Palmer, age 64, and Donna, age 58, had thought about selling their Gold River home to downsize and move to midtown Sacramento. They dreamed of their retirement when they could go out with friends more often, take long bike trips and travel the world. However, they quickly discovered it was not a good time in the housing market for them to sell and they postponed their plans. Little did they know this was just the beginning of the change in plans God had for them. Not long after this time, Palmer’s daughter, Laura (not her real name), began a downward spiral in her own life, marrying a man who had a history of substance abuse. Addiction became a part of her life as well, and Palmer and Donna struggled as they watched Laura’s life unravel. Their granddaughter, Tia, was born two months after Laura’s marriage

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and the turmoil continued to abound in little Tia’s home. Fourteen months later, her baby brother Landin entered the world into the same unstable environment. Despite Palmer and Donna’s efforts to help Laura, she continued down the same path. Eventually CPS stepped in. After their grandchildren spent a week in foster care, the Lee’s were able to take them into their home—a home much more suited for children than their desired midtown life would have offered. Their plan and hope was to be Tia and Landin’s guardians while Laura went through a rehabilitation program. Unfortunately, she did not complete the program and it became apparent that a loss of parental rights was inevitable. Having been the main caregivers for their grandchildren for over a year, Palmer and Donna had a decision to make—one that would require much prayer and soul searching. Once Laura’s parental rights were taken away, it would be the state’s decision where Tia and Landin would live—unless Palmer and Donna chose to adopt them. Adoption would ensure that Tia and Landin would grow up in a stable, Christian home and have the opportunity to know the Lord. Initially, the Lee’s were not open to becoming parents of young children again in this stage of their life. They could list many practical reasons why they shouldn’t, in addition to their age. Even trusted friends told them they would be crazy to adopt. This was especially true for Donna, as Tia and Landin are not her biological grandchildren. Yet, the Lord tugged at their hearts. Donna says she knew early on that she needed to switch from the role

of grandmother to mother in order to provide the security the children so desperately needed. For Palmer, though, the decision took a bit longer as his focus was on his daughter. He was holding onto the hope that she would be freed from her addictions and be able to mother her children again—the hope that he could rescue her. “I was trying to fix something out of my power. I had played God for so long that I couldn’t trust God with my daughter.”

“SOMETIMES IT’S BETTER WHEN THINGS DON’T GO ACCORDING TO OUR PLAN.”

Eventually, Palmer came to a place of surrender, leaving his daughter and the whole situation completely in God’s hands. Though it didn’t make sense from a human perspective, he and Donna knew what God was calling them to do. After a long legal process, they officially adopted Tia and Landin in May of 2013. The Lee’s plans for the future look very different now. Instead of vacations and midtown life, they have to think about cars and colleges. Palmer will have to postpone his retirement, while Donna has retired early to stay at home with the children. There are many what-ifs and unknowns, but they are trusting God to fill in the blanks, just as He has thus far. They know the opportunity they have to change two lives—and the joy Tia and Landin bring them—far surpasses any plans they could dream of. Sometimes it’s better when things don’t go according to our plan. Robin has been attending First Cov since college and has enjoyed serving in a variety of areas over the years. Currently, she enjoys being a part of the worship team for the modern services and helping plan the Women’s Retreat. Besides hanging out with her two favorite guys— her husband, Scott and son, Spencer— her favorite pastimes are mixed media art and photography.

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ST IL L GROW I NG

“I’m a child of God who is still growing,” says a joyful Bonnie Adams. Bonnie has been serving at First Covenant Church for many years in different capacities—a small group facilitator in the Wednesday night women’s Bible study; an usher captain on Sunday mornings; roles within Celebrate Recovery; participant on Global Outreach trips to Mexicali, Thailand and Colombia; part of the ministry to the women at the strip clubs of Sacramento with As You Are (AYA); and the list goes on.

A lot of growth has taken place in Bonnie’s life as a result of her 14 years of sobriety. Bonnie’s young life was marked by tragedy. Her father died in an Air Force plane crash when she was four. Her mother remarried when Bonnie was six, and she was absorbed into a lonely family experience disconnected from step siblings. She was sexually assaulted by a stranger at the age of 11. By 16, she had married, and by 17 she had given birth to the first of two daughters. She wasn’t raised in a Christian family but, looking back, Bonnie says that during her adolescent and early adult life she was “really seeking and interested in knowing more about God.” In 1980, Bonnie attended a Baptist church with a friend. She remembers placing her youngest daughter on a receiving blanket to walk up to the altar to accept Christ. Looking back, she can see that God had a plan, but at the time it was impossible to foresee that through her youngest daughter,

COMPASS MAGAZINE

BY LINDSEY EDWARDS

Amber DiBernardo, Bonnie would eventually be led to First Covenant Church. The altar call in 1980 was anticlimactic—the “born again” experience hadn’t made anything different or changed Bonnie’s life. Unfortunately, she received no guidance from the church nor did her friend recognize Bonnie’s need for discipleship. Bonnie decided that church and a relationship with God, “just wasn’t for me,” because she had failed to connect with God. After 10 years of marriage, Bonnie and her husband divorced. Already a drinker, Bonnie began to abuse alcohol more seriously. She raised her daughters as a single mother and tried to insulate them from the progressive disease of alcoholism. Her eldest daughter then moved out of the house, leaving Bonnie alone with Amber. For many years, Bonnie was a “functioning alcoholic,” maintaining a semblance of normalcy —holding down a job, raising her children, keeping food on the table and trying to get through each day. A “maintenance drinker,” she was so addicted that it was physically necessary for her to drink. In the morning she would look at herself in the mirror through red eyes and say that she was done, praying hopelessly that God would rescue her and help her stop her pattern of alcohol abuse. Every day on her way home from work she would turn into a liquor store parking lot and then go home to drink herself to sleep after cooking dinner for Amber. She says, “I didn’t think much of myself.”

At her worst, Bonnie would drink a pint of vodka each night. Her struggle intensified when Amber announced that she would be moving out of the house. Bonnie knew that she would drink herself to death without the structure in which she had been operating. Without Amber there, and subsequently, without a reason to maintain a façade of normalcy, Bonnie knew she would be consumed by her disease. She found it more and more difficult just to leave her home in the morning to drive to work. Bonnie began attending First Covenant when she was still an alcoholic in 1998. Amber, the same daughter who had been with her at the altar call in 1980, had received Christ through the leadership of a woman involved with a high school Youth for Christ group. Through Amber’s continuing involvement, they both decided to find a church they could attend together. After their first visit, they knew First Covenant was home. In 2000, two years after beginning to attend First Covenant, Bonnie finally sought treatment through a Kaiser medical recovery program. Her time was spent between her job, Kaiser, Alcoholics Anonymous and First Covenant Church. The recovery process was just as structured as her addiction had been, and through that strict structure she began to experience healing. Bonnie’s identity changed from a daily drinker to a child of God. Life began to open up. Bonnie attended her first Bible study through First Covenant. She felt that everyone there

“I can never go back and make up for mistakes I made in the past. I can only be the best [me] from this point on.” was perfect—they had wonderful lives, looked as good on the inside as they did on the outside and had no problems or issues. Having been raised without Christian influences, Bonnie says she had no idea what Christians did or how they felt—all she knew was that they were nice, and she enjoyed being involved. When one of the leaders asked her to share her story with the group, she declined, fearing that no one would want to be around her if they knew about her struggle with alcoholism. After six months, she finally acquiesced to the urging of Bible study leadership (Bonnie adds, “It must have been the prompting of the Holy Spirit!”) and shared her story. Bonnie was shocked when someone approached her afterward and confided in her that she also struggled with alcohol. In retrospect, Bonnie says that, “If even one person came closer to God because of my story, it was worth it.” At the time though, she wondered, “How could God use someone like me?” Although Bonnie had accepted Christ during the altar call in 1980 and believes that at that time she technically received salvation, she says that her tangible relationship with God didn’t start until twenty years later when she finally became sober. Until attaining sobriety, she was too sick and too addicted to maintain or understand a true relationship with God. Once sober, Bonnie began to get more involved in Bible studies and church groups. She met a pastor’s wife at her first women’s retreat and was then invited to the pastor’s house for a party. She couldn’t believe it: “What would perfect Christians want with a wretch like me?” Through the honesty of church members, she began to see that all Christians weren’t perfect. They had complicated and messy lives, too. She says she realized that being perfect is not what defines us as Christians and began to embrace the mentality that “I wasn’t the only one with issues.” Bonnie says it took years of rehabilitation to become “normal,” although she still struggled to even understand what “normal” meant. Although she knew intellectually that God had saved her and redeemed her, she still struggled with guilt and self-condemnation. Glenda Harr, one of her church and Bible study leaders had her memorize Romans 8:1: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (NIV). Bonnie says that the longer she’s sober, the less she’s scared that her past will be her label: “It’s part of who I used to be and how I became who I am now.” She’s confident that God has given her a second chance, and without Christ, “I wouldn’t have friends, a mission, I’d probably be dead—I’m a miracle.”

Everyone goes through rough times. We don’t need to go through them alone. We’re here to help.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY: A Bible-based 12-step program for all kinds of hurts, habits and hang-ups. Thursday nights at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel. Visit firstcov.org/cr for more information.

LAY COUNSELING: Caring non-professionals trained to listen, guide and pray. Call Jennie at 916.861.1622 for a confidential appointment.

GRIEFSHARE: Help for dealing with the pain of losing a loved one. New groups forming throughout the year. Contact cmelville@ firstcov.org for more information.

DIVORCECARE: Assistance in finding healing and hope after a broken relationship. Contact cmelville@firstcov.org for more information.

Looking back, Bonnie appreciates that God was using her in ways she never expected nor foresaw. On her Global Outreach trip to Colombia, for example, Bonnie says that the leadership had her join the team as the WWW.FIRSTCOV.ORG

...she realized that being perfect is not what defines us as Christians and began to embrace the mentality that “I wasn’t the only one with issues.” arts and crafts person. She initially scoffed at the situation, feeling that she was insignificant in the position and that she wasn’t needed on the trip —other people with important qualifications were going to serve there and she would just take up extra space. Things soon changed when the team was ministering to the local people and Bonnie was invited to share the story of her journey through alcoholism to redemption with women in a Celebrate Recovery Group. God had her on the trip to share her life experience-

—a story that only she could communicate—in a unique and eternally significant way. She says, “You never know how God is going to use you.” Bonnie states, “I can never go back and make up for mistakes I made in the past. I can only be the best [me] from this point on.” Daily, Bonnie works on stepping out in faith and to trust in God. Very candidly, she explains that she’s never had the kind of relationship with God where she feels that He tells her things directly, but rather

TO BE USED BY CHRIST BY JONATHAN ARMSTRONG

t the early age of four, I accepted Christ. I was born with a genetic medical condition that no one else in my immediate family has. I am thankful that my parents decided to raise me as if they would any other child. This is not to say that they denied me access to medical care or neglected me, but they decided that placing too great of an emphasis on how I was “different” would hinder my ability to relate with other kids my age. This helped in the end, because they instilled in me confidence and encouraged me not to develop a victim mentality. I remember one specific opportune moment that I had to meet someone that forever changed my mindset when I was twelve or thirteen. My Dad and I drove to Twin Lake Church in Aptos, CA to hear Joni Ericson-Tada share her testimony. If you are not familiar with Joni’s story, I encourage you to read it. Briefly, though, when she was a teenager she was swimming and diving in a pond that was too shallow and ultimately became paralyzed from the neck down. She was faced with a choice, similar to what I had to make: live life for Christ and serve Him to the fullest, or remain bitter, angry and depressed. I remember walking away realizing that even though I had a medical condition of my own; it did not need to hold me back. I was committed to making the most of what God gave me. This is all to say that I realized from a young age, the uncertainty that my future held. However, when I think about it now with my adult brain, I recognize that as a Christian, I do not need to live in fear of what might happen. My future, and your future, as a Christian is secure. The life on this earth, with our imperfect bodies is only temporary (1 Corinthians 15:35-54).

she recognizes that God is constantly working in her and through her in ways that she often doesn’t even know. Bonnie says, “I’m a scarred person,” but states that because of Christ, “I’m here. I’m whole.” Lindsey is a Certified Safety Management Specialist with a double major BA in English and Religious Studies from UCSB. Lindsey loves crochet, hates gluten and dairy, and has passionately played guitar and sung in worship music ministry for over 18 years.

This condition has had some impact on my life; however, it was not until I was in an automobile accident that my family and I discovered the extent to which it affected me internally. Long story short, I had six major surgeries (spinal surgeries, brain surgery, etc.) within a two-year period. God taught me much through this experience. Notably the importance to trust him daily. Nevertheless, he also gave me a greater sense of passion for others and developed empathy in me that has enabled me to understand what others undergoing challenges are going through. I do not want to say that I never struggled. I did. There were times that I struggled with insecurities, anger, and resentment. Nevertheless, the passion inside my soul that has developed through my life experiences burns brighter than that. My goal is to utilize these experiences to further impact my ability to share the Gospel. I take comfort in the story of Job and how he lost everything but he remained faithful to God. In the end of the story, Job was blessed tremendously for his faithfulness. This is not to say that I am like Job or that I expect to be blessed in the same way he was. In many ways, I already realize how blessed I am. What transformed my mind is when I count my blessings every day and recognize the abundance of blessings I already have in my life. God is more than capable of healing me of my medical condition, but He has not yet. I remember Paul in scripture, he was afflicted with a “thorn in the flesh,” we are not entirely sure what his infliction was, but he remained faithful to Christ to the end (2 Corinthians 12:7). I do pray that He heals me, but I do not expect it in this lifetime. I have resolved to serve to

Christ no matter my circumstances, because He has proven repeatedly to be faithful. This might sound strange, but when I was

younger, I was envious of others that had a strong testimony and would often pray that Christ would give me a strong testimony— Now I recognize this is part of my testimony. If it were not for the medical condition, the accident, and the surgeries I had, I would not have interacted with the medical staff at the hospital. It was there that I was able to share my faith and for that, I am thankful. Each of us has a story to share. God has bestowed a unique set of qualities upon us that only we possess. These gifts are for the benefit of Christ’s church and to further the Gospel. The scripture is clear that a body is made of many parts. I am still figuring out specifically how God will use my testimony, talents, and abilities. I am convinced of one thing that it will be best utilized in the context of a church body—where I hope to grow and become sanctified in Christ. My goal is to be used by Christ and to allow Him to open doors to share my life, struggles, and testimony with others so that they may be encouraged. Jonathan enjoys playing bass guitar, reading, writing, Toastmasters (public speaking) and volunteering with the Bridges ministry. He is recently engaged to the wonderful Laura Tincher, who helps him find opportunities for sharing his gifts, talents and testimony.

ON THE SPOT QUESTION:

WHAT’S ONE OF YOUR MOST EMBARRISING MOMENTS?

“My mom has a picture of me from my first birthday where I went FACE FIRST into my cupcake!” —Aidan Webber

“In class one day, I was so excited because I knew the answer to a question. But when I answered it, it was wrong. I was embarrassed!” —Dakota Kennedy

“When I was 5 years old, I PEED ON MYSELF when I got on my first roller coaster!” —Peter Gomez

Preschoolers, grade schoolers, preteens, teenagers, kids with special needs...we want them all to find a place to belong at First Cov. Kids First:

Our Sunday morning program for nursery through third grade. firstcov.org/kidsfirst

“In high school during a lunch, I was out on the quad as usual. Wanting to show off for a girl, I tried to bicycle kick a ball, but I kicked straight up into the air instead and pulled my hip flexer and was out for two football games my senior year.” —Matt Newton

“In the 8th grade, I was walking to class, reading a book, and walked right into a tree and FELL HEAD OVER HEELS—in in a dress!” —Nita Thomas

“I was so into a test that I accidently asked a question that had already been answered twice!” — Camryn Kennedy

On Eagles Wings:

A ministry designed for special needs children and their families. firstcov.org/oew

Club 45:

An exciting, adventurous group of students grades 4 and 5. firstcov.org/club45

Identity Middle School Ministries: For students grades 6-8. Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. and Wednesday nights at 6:15 p.m. firstcov.org/identity “My senior ball date was shorter than me. We thought it would be a great idea if I sat on his knee for a picture. WE WERE VERY WOBBLY AND FELL OVER, breaking the entire prom photo backdrop in half! Broken vases and flowers everywhere, with 30plus seniors watching!” —Jamie Gomez

“I was in the military. When I moved to Nor Cal, I took a trip to LA and on my way home, I found an awesome local mom and pop shop named Carl’s. I went back on my next furlough. This time I took a wrapper to show everyone. THEY LAUGHED AT ME, saying that Carl’s Jr. was everywhere; one was a block away!” —Eric Scott

“In college I had a ‘55 Ford with transmission problems. I met a kid who talked me into letting him take it to his repair shop. Unbeknownst to me, he just took my car joy riding and caused even more damage to it.” —Dewey Lehnen

Renovate High School Ministries: For students grades 9-12.

Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. and Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. firstcov.org/renovate

A Second During the trial, Judy remembers looking at the man and being thankful that she was no longer the one in shackles.

“T

his is where I’m going to die.” That was Judy’s hands gripped the steering wheel as tightly Judy’s only thought as she stared down as her captor’s grip on the gun. the barrel of the gun. The day started out like any other. Judy was “I’m not afraid to kill you,” her assailant said in a heading toward home after work. Her thoughts matter-of-fact voice. “I killed someone last week.” were on what to fix for dinner for Ed and her two

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Chance kids. The next thing she knew, someone rearended her car. She pulled to the side of the road, and the other car pulled in behind her. They both got out assessing the damage. After agreeing to exchange insurance information, Judy went back to her car to get something to write on. When she turned back around, the man was standing close with a gun pointed at her.

“Get your purse and get away from the car,” he demanded. He then forced her into his car and proceeded to drive to the nearby exit. He parked his car in a secluded area and ordered Judy to climb over a fence. Together they made their way down the embankment back to her car. He kept the gun pointed at Judy as he gave her directions of where to drive. Shocked at finding herself in such a terrible position, she could only pray under her breath, “Lord, help me.” They drove to a Christmas tree farm, closed for the season. What happened next was a horror no woman should ever have to live through. Judy was sexually assaulted and then forced into the trunk of her car, gagged so she couldn’t scream. At an ATM, he used Judy’s PIN to withdraw money from her account. He drove back to the abandoned farm and assaulted her again. He wanted to know if she had kids. Judy said no. She was terrified he’d go after them too.

What happened next was a horror no woman should ever have to live through. “I’ll blow you away if you’re lying to me,” he told her. They got back into the car, heading to yet another ATM for more cash. He got out of the car with

the gun hidden under a tee shirt draped over his arm. After ordering her not to try to escape, he got in line at the ATM. Judy spied a security guard walking across the parking lot. “This is my chance,” she thought. She jumped out of the car and took off running to a nearby hardware store. “He has a gun,” she shouted to the guard. Her assailant ran to a truck where a woman was loading her groceries. He shoved the woman into the truck, took the driver’s seat and peeled out of the parking lot. Judy used the phone in the hardware store to call her neighbor, breathlessly telling her to get Ed and come pick her up. Terrified the guy would come back to get her, she hid behind the display cases until the police showed up, no more than five minutes later. The man was quickly apprehended, after he crashed the truck during the police pursuit. The two and a half years between his arrest and conviction were trying times for Judy. She was anxious to move on with her life, but on more than one occasion she had to meet with the district attorney and recount the details of her kidnapping. Determined not to let this one incident define her life, she continually turned to God in prayer. How does God’s grace cover such a tragic event in a woman’s life? Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose,” (NIV). How could this be for the good? Judy still doesn’t understand all the ways that God has used this tragic situation in her life, but she trusts that He has. To this day, Judy is grateful to be alive. She’s grateful that those terrible events happened to her and not to one of her kids. Judy believes her faith in God’s protection kept

BY JANE DALY

her from being killed that day. Even though she was sexually assaulted, she was adamant that the horrific events of that day would not ruin her life by plaguing her with fear. The odds of her getting through the situation alive had seemed very low. He’d gotten all her money and jewelry. Since he knew that she would be able to identify him if he was ever arrested, he had no apparent choice but to kill her. Judy saw God’s grace at work in the midst of the circumstances when she had an opportunity to escape. When the case finally went to trial, the man was found guilty, not only of Judy’s kidnapping, but also of the murder of a young man who worked at a convenience store. During the trial, Judy remembers looking at the man and being thankful that she was no longer the one in shackles. The physical bonds that had been put on her, and the mental bonds he had used to intimidate and control, were broken by the power of Jesus. Through His power, she endured the nightmare and came through it stronger than ever. If she could survive this, she could survive anything. Since that time, Judy has realized how supportive her family and friends were and continue to be. She was given a second chance and continues to thank God for life, family and the overcoming power of salvation. Philippians 3:13 states: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead...,” Judy says that’s she isn’t a victim, she’s a survivor. She isn’t bound by the tragic events of that day. Instead she looks forward to the future with hope and thanksgiving.

Jane is author of the book From Grief to Grace, to be released January 2015. She and her husband, Mike, are Growth Group leaders and Gospel Discipleship coaches. When not at her computer writing, she’s either catching up on scrapbooking her grandchildren’s photos or riding her bike on the bike trail.

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BRING A WRAPPED GIFT TO THE CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES FOR OUR ANNUAL BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR JESUS. Please bring a new toy or pair of closedtoed shoes valued at $20 or less. Your gift will be used for next year’s Christmas Mall to help families in need.