SVM-MAG_04302014

Faith & Family 2014

Faith & FAMILY

SPRING 2014

A GUIDE TO AREA CHURCHES

Published by Sauk Valley Media

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2014 Vacation Bible School will be held July 28th thru August 1st. 9am to Noon each day. We will have games, snacks, teaching times and crafts for ages 4 years old thru 6th grade!

Rain or Shine, Come join the Summer Fun!!!

Faith & Family 2014

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50 Ways to Make a Difference without Spending a Penny. newsblaze.com

So many people have been laid off from their jobs or have had significant cut backs as to the amount of hours worked (which is the case in my family - my husband is not getting a full 40 hour week and boy does that hurt.) The head says “you can’t afford to give and make a difference” while your heart screams “you can’t afford NOT to give and make a difference!”

9. Hold a yard sale and donate half of the proceeds.

So, what is a person that has a desire to give BIG (and I’m talking give “Oprah big”) supposed to do when the money isn’t there? Forget about the “BIG” portion of giving and simply do what you can with what you have.

13. Encourage our soldiers. Send a free letter here.

I truly do love to buy things for the sole purpose of giving them away. When my children see things are obviously not for them, they will immediately ask “Who is that for?” because they know that I normally don’t keep things - I give them away. With my husbands hours being cut back, I’m still going to give or do something daily to make a difference.

Here are some of the ways I’ll be Spreading Joy while the finances are extremely tight!

1. Pass on a book that you’ve enjoyed.

Write a note in the front saying what you enjoyed and instruct the next “owner” to pass it on after they have read it.

2. Instead of “googling” when searching - use Good Search and these guys will make a donation to Spreading Joy. (Use the link above that will take you there) 3. Donate gently used dvd’s, vhs tapes and video games - I’m sure Spreading Joy can find those that will love to use them.

4. Be Positive today - with the depressing economy, bills falling behind - this can really be tough, but it will encourage those around you and in the process bring joy to yourself.

5. Donate expired coupons to the troops overseas.

6. Thank a Police Officer today (hopefully NOT while you are getting a ticket!)

7. Give time to your spouse - do something together, visit a park, bookstore etc.

8. Donate household items to Spreading Joy to pass along to others in need.

10. Taking the 30 day challenge? Tell me about it here.

31. Visit with the elderly or someone who can no longer get out as much as they’d like.

11. Baby sit for a friend/neighbor for free.

32. Pick flowers from your garden and give away.

12. Serve a meal at a homeless shelter or women’s shelter

33. Volunteer for your local church.

14. Mentor someone - have you started your own business? Are you an expert in a certain field? Share that talent!

15. Donate unused craft items to a daycare or elementary school.

16. Turn in those Box Tops for Education - found on Pillsbury items. Keep these, even if you don’t have kids. There is a school near you.

17. Smile at everyone you come in contact with today.

18. Offer to let someone ahead of you in line.

34. Give a thank you card to someone who has made a difference in your life.

35. Run errands for a new Mom (or someone that is sick) 36. Pick up trash you see as you are walking on your route.

37. Volunteer to read to a class at your local Elementary school 38. Write a thank you note to your child’s teacher.

39. Seek out a store manager and let them know what an excellent employee your grocery bagger was. (or cashier).

19. Volunteer in a Nursing home.

40. Donate gently used clothing.

20. Donate blood.

41. Volunteer at a hospital.

21. Donate Plasma - and get paid for it.

42. Donate your “free items” from the buy one get one free - to a local food pantry.

22. Organize a book drive - get your neighborhood to donate gently used books. Pass out a flier asking for books - giving instructions to leave them in a bag on the porch letting them know you will pick them up the next week.

43. Leave a note hanging in or on your mailbox thanking your mail carrier for always being so dependable!

24. Have a family meal at the table - talk about current events in the family.

44. Speak to the elderly you pass - look them in the eye and smile. We tend to forget about the great individuals who paved the way for us.

25. Give a handwritten note of encouragement.

45. Say Please and Thank you - show sincere appreciation.

26. Start a Gratitude Journal - leave it out for others to see as they visit you.

46. Go to Church. There are so many churches. When people get discouraged, that is one of the first places they’ll go.

You can encourage so many people this way!

23. Turn in your Campbell’s Soup Labels

27. Donate gently used magazines to a nursing home 28. <-this has been missing for a year and a half, and NO one has said a thing to me about it. LOLOLOL just realized today 10.10.10 hahhaha. I LOVE it!, Leaving it and thank goodness for bonuses.

29. Call someone who is not feeling well and talk until you make them laugh 30. Volunteer at an animal shelter - play with the animals.

47. Make extra chili and cornbread muffins - and take to a neighbor.

48. Bake homemade cookies with items you have in your pantry and share with neighborhood children.

49. Donate extra blankets to a homeless shelter.

50. Give a basket of home grown veggies.

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Amazing Grace of Sterling Article submitted by Pastor Loren Schlomer

Our LOCAL mission is to provide a church atmosphere where “love reigns” and a place where everyone’s life will be impacted by the power of God. Our church is a place of freedom where we freely worship and praise our creator with people from all walks of life. Our mission is to minister to the whole family, young and old alike. Our WORLD mission includes reaching other countries with financial support, specifically Albania, Africa, and Guatemala and by personal involvement in the form of preaching as well as working there to improve conditions for the missionaries and the people they are ministering to.

We also financially support our home organization, Faith Christian Fellowship, Int’l which has locations worldwide preaching God’s Word into the uttermost parts of the earth.

God has called us out of the confines of our church to reach into our community. Amazing Grace is able to do this in many ways: 1) Our July 4th Celebration event that offers a great day of carnival fun with fabulous inflatable rides, bungy jumps, rock climbing walls, water slides, and games for the entire family – all for FREE!, 2) we are helping families cut their grocery bills in half through the Smart Choice Food Program, 3) and we are spreading God’s Word throughout our community by broadcasting Pastor Loren’s messages every Sunday on local radio, WIXN @ 8:00 am and WSDR @ 8:15 am.

You have a specific part to play! God has a plan for your life and our church will help you find out what that plan is and will help develop you into God’s perfect will for your life!

Pastor Loren Schlomer

512 2nd Avenue, Sterling 815-625-9300

Amazing Grace is a church where love reigns and lives are transformed by the power of God. We have created an atmosphere of freedom here where people of all walks of life worship God with their whole hearts. It’s a place where people meet God and grow in their relationship with Him.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Where Miracles Happen!â&#x20AC;?

You have a specific part to play! God has a plan for your life and our church will help you find out what that plan is and will help develop you into Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect will for your life!

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Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church is a wonderful place to hear the word of God. This smaller sized congregation makes you feel like you are in a close group with friends at every turn. Working, playing, and studying Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word together is fun. Your church family is there to help, love and support you as together you live your life. Not only in the sacred institutions of baptism, marriage, communion, etc., but everyday life.

There are two active Bible study groups (morning and evening) which are led by Pastor Andermann. A new third Bible Study Group is being planned to meet in the community as an outreach group from the church. The Alive Group meets

once a month in fellowship to have a meal and a good time. Family Night is a similar activity which meets at night.

Once again to have fellowship and a good time, families and their friends are treated to opportunities to do things in the community. To give you an idea of Family Night, it might be a bowling night, a movie night, a swim night, a geocaching night, or a sing fest. This church has fun as it worships the Lord and goes about His business.

Outreach to the community is also an important part of this church. Every year the congregation enters the 4th of July Dixon Petunia Parade. This past year the entry showcased the Lutheran Comfort Dogs who respond to natural disasters and community events. Once a month, the Adult Sunday School teams up with the Sunday Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children to do a Mission Sunday. These efforts help the local community. It is fun to put together Birthday Party Bags which are donated through the local food pantry for kids that would not get a birthday cake if not for a box mix and frosting provided in the party bag. Making stuffed animals which can be given out to children by

Our Savior Lutheran Church of Hopkins Township

First Responders is another fun Mission Sunday activity. The Dixon Food Pantry has called our congregation one of the best regulars they have. In addition, this past year a mission was under taken to provide used shoes for children in Africa. The congregation each year does a fundraiser for the Hope Life Center in which baby bottles are past out and collect full of money. MWML provided child size quilts for the women and children shelter. This coming year it is hoped that the congregation will obtain its own Comfort Dog. Not only going to disasters, but to visit first responders, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and the like. There are lots of things to do in this church. Maybe it is just a cup of coffee and a piece of cake at fellowship after the church service or maybe attending an Advent, Lenten, or Easter luncheon. It is all fun as this congregation worships and serves God!

Messiah Lutheran Church

This beautiful church in the middle of Hopkins Township is rich in history and local color. It has withstood the tests of time for many generations. We invite you to come visit our services at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday morning. We have two annual long-standing, public invited social events: the Ice Cream Social in September and the Chili-Oyster supper in March or April.

Messiah Lutheran Church and Christ

Both feature home-made pies, along with all the other

Lutheran School participate in the Fiesta

delicious food prepared by the members.

Parade 2013

With the universal Christian Church, THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD teaches and responds to the love of the Triune God: the Father, creator of all that exists; Jesus Christ, the Son, who became human to suffer and die for the sins of all human beings and to rise to life again in the ultimate victory over death and Satan; and the Holy Spirit, who creates faith through God’s Word and Sacraments.The three persons of the Trinity are co-equal and co-eternal, one God. Being “Lutheran”, our congregations accept and teach Bible-based teachings of Martin Luther that inspired the reformation of the Christian Church in the 16th century. The teaching of Luther and the reformers can be summarized in three short phrases: Grace alone, Faith alone, Scripture alone.

Grace alone: God loves the people of the world, even though they are sinful, rebel against Him and do not deserve His love. He sent Jesus, His Son, to love the unlovable and save the ungodly.

Faith alone: By His suffering and death as the substitute for all people of all time, Jesus purchased and won forgiveness and eternal life for them. Those who hear his Good News and believe it have the eternal life that it offers. God creates faith in Christ and gives people forgiveness through Him. Scripture alone: The Bible is God’s inerrant and infallible Word, in which He reveals His Law and His Gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ. It is the sole rule and norm for Christian doctrine.

Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church 2035 IL Route 26 Dixon, IL 61021 815-284-4554 Service: 9am Sunday Sunday School: 10:20am Sunday Pastor David Andermann Web: www.coslcdixon.org Email: coslcdixon@gmail.com Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 435 Martin Road Rock Falls, IL 61071 815-625-3376 Service: 9am Sunday Sunday School: 10:15am Sunday Thursday Worship: 7pm Pastor Dan Behmlander Web: www.gslcrf.org Our Savior Lutheran Church 21496 Hazel Road Sterling, IL 61081 815-772-4345 Service: 9am Sunday Sunday School: 10am Sunday Pastor Don Matthiessen Messiah Lutheran Church 1601 Avenue F Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-2284 Service: 9am Sunday Radio Broadcast on 107.7 (FM) Sunday School: 10:15am Sunday Intentional Interim Pastor: Pastor David M. Burges Web: www.messiahlutheransterling.org Email: meloffice@comcast.net St. Peter Lutheran Church 601 N Jackson Street Morrison, IL 61270 815-772-3386 Service: 9:30am Sunday Sunday School: 10:45am Sunday Pastors Mark Winkelman and Mike Winkelman Web: www.stpetersmorrison.com Email: stpeters@frontiernet.net

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First Presbyterian Church Church: More Than a Building A church is not a building. Ever heard that before? People say, “I’m going to church,” and usually, they mean they are going to Sunday worship services. But a church, any church, is more than a building and more than Sunday morning. A church is people – people everywhere!

At First Presbyterian Church, we believe that God gathers us as a community of faith, and then sends us out into the world – out of the building – to share the good news of God’s love everywhere we go. So you’ll see Presbyterians out in the community washing dishes, packing

lunches, feeding kids, volunteering with hospice, the hospital, the YWCA and all kinds of places. We are in the church building, too. We worship at 9:30 AM on Sundays. We have Women’s Bible Study on Tuesday mornings, and our monthly men’s prayer breakfast takes place at the Sterling Red Apple on the second Thursday of every month. On Wednesday nights at various times we offer special programs.

Crucial Conversations This summer, on three consecutive Wednesdays - June 11, 18, and 25 - we are

hosting a free event for the community at 6:00 PM. It is called “Crucial Conversations” and concerns all the things we need to think about and plan for when we face the end of life – medical, spiritual, and practical questions. These are conversations we all need to have, difficult as they might be. We invite you to join us for a light supper and conversations with experts in these issues. Plus, you’ll already have a good parking place for the Wednesday night band concerts!

Call the church at 815-625-0452 to make your reservations. The program is free but space is limited.

Stronghold Day Camp Comes to Sterling If you can’t get to Stronghold Camp, Stronghold camp will come to you! That’s the promise and the fun of Stronghold Day Camp at First Presbyterian Church of Sterling. On July 7-10, an all day camp is available for children from kindergarten through fifth grade. The camp is from 8:303:30, Monday through Thursday, and includes music, games, Bible stories, lots of fun, and a delicious lunch each day. Kids will learn and laugh and play – just like at sleep-away camp. Sound too good to be true? It gets even better – because Stronghold Day Camp at First Presbyterian Church is FREE! – that’s right, through the generosity of our leadership, First Presbyterian offers this day camp for no cost to the kids of our community. However, you must pre-register. Reserve your spot today by calling 815-625-0452 or emailing First Presbyterian at firstpresbyteriansterling@ live.com

First Presbyterian Church 410 Second Avenue Sterling, IL Come

us out!

Big God Warm welcome Cool people Good coffee Great music Thoughtful preaching Need more information?

www.firstpresbyteriansterling.org

815.625.0452

firstpresbyteriansterling@live.com

ǰ Ȃ ǯ Ȃ ŗŝŖ ¢ ǯ Ȃ Ȃ stodgy or boring - the years have given us wisdom, strength, and a strong foundation. Our faith is still growing, even after all these years. And there is always room for more people who want to learn, to work for justice, and to love God with their hearts their minds. Worship is at 9:30 on Sundays, with fellowship, fun and learning through the week. ǯ Ȃ ǯ

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¢ ŝȬŗŖ First Presbyterian 410 Second Avenue Sterling, IL 61081 Phone: 815.625.0452

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¢ ŗŚȬŗŞ First Presbyterian 110 East Third Street Dixon, Illinois 61021 Phone: 815.284.7741

Stronghold camps begin June 13th! Call or see our website for more information.

Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center 1922 Illinois Route 2 North, Oregon, IL www.strongholdcenter.org 815.732.6111

Faith & Family 2014

St. John’s Lutheran:

“Cherishing the Past, Faithful in the Present, Hopeful for the Future” Pastor Mark Oehlert 703 3rd Avenue, Sterling, IL 815.625.2634 http://www.stjohnssterling.org St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church celebrates 160 years of ministry in Sterling this year! Founded in 1854, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sterling, Illinois, is home to 760 church members. We come together for worship at 9:30am Sundays, and a “Taste and See Ministry Night” Wednesdays (meal at 5, worship at 6, learning at 7). Dress is casual, so come as you are! We are located between 7th and 8th Streets, and between 3rd and 4th Avenues.

Parking is available on all sides of our building, and a ramp and elevator are available. Office hours are 8:30am-4:30pm MondayFriday.

First Christian Church, “The Church on the Hill”

Know the Word, Live the Word, Spread the Word Pastor Courtney Chandler 3400 6th Avenue, Sterling, IL 815.625.6851 http://www.firstchristianchurchofsterling.org The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), also known as “The Church On The Hill,” has been a worshipping and witnessing church to this community for 138 years. The church has a glorious history and a vision for the future. We also believe that God calls us to serve those outside our church doors, so we are active in community outreach ministries.

We welcome everyone in our congregation and so we hope to see you in church this weekend! Worship is at 10:15 AM

St. Paul Lutheran:

“Passionate for God and the World God Loves” Pastor Brandon Nelson 1701 16th Ave, Sterling, IL 815.625.3069 http://www.stpaulsterling.com St. Paul Lutheran Church has been an integral part of life in Sterling, Illinois for over 100 years. As members our mission is to: Maintain our daily communion with God through prayer and study; look, listen, and serve the needs of individuals, our community, our state and our world; provide Biblical sermons and Christ centered worship; be open and friendly to others; enthusiastically support our church with money, time, and talents; provide innovative, family-centered education. We are a community that invites you to grow deeper with us. At St. Paul we strive to grow deeper in our relationships; our relationship with God, with one another and also with our community. We are a worshiping community that is passionate for God and for the world God loves. Worship is at 9:00 AM

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Bethel Reformed Church: “A Closer Walk with God”

Pastor Gary Dekoekkoek Bethel Reformed Church, 230 E. 23rd Street, Sterling, IL 61081 815.626.1816 www.bethelreformed.com Our mission is to introduce people to a saving faith in Jesus Christ through worship, outreach and prayer, and to encourage them to join us in growing in a closer walk with God and service in His Kingdom. Bethel Reformed Church of Sterling was organized in 1936 and is a part of the Reformed Church in America. In 1977 the congregation moved from its First Avenue location to the present site on East 23rd Street. In 2005 it added a “Community Room” to the facility to meet a need in the community to accommodate large gatherings for various occasions. We invite you, in the name of Jesus, to join us for Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m. After the service, coffee and cookies are served in the “Community Room” and there is a time of fellowship. Sunday School classes follow for children from 3 years of age through adult.

First Presbyterian Church:

A Heart for God in the Heart of Sterling” Pastor Christina Berry 410 Second Avenue, Sterling, IL 815.625.0452 firstpresbyteriansterling.org We meet for worship every Sunday at 9:30 AM. Our worship service is unique - we use an order of worship, but we are not formal; we use new songs and old hymns; we share and laugh, but we take our faith seriously. Our worship and sermons are created to teach and inspire, to strengthen your faith, and give you a good start for the week ahead. Our prayers are heartfelt, our sermons are engaging, and our music is inspiring, beautiful, and energizing! We also invite you to Bible study, men’s prayer breakfast, and to join us in the many works of ministry we do in our community to care for others.

Grace Episcopal:

“Seeking to embody the love of God and share that love with others.”

Pastor: Peg Williams 707 First Avenue, Sterling IL (815) 625-0442 www.gracechurchstg.org The Episcopal Church is a place that embraces newcomers and visitors. Walk through these doors, and you will find friends. Here we all work together to discern God’s will and let Jesus Christ teach us how to live well. The people ARE Grace Church! Join us for worship on Sundays at 9:00 AM, spoken eucharist on Wednesdays at noon , and come check out our Kids Club, every fourth Friday at 5:30 PM.

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COMMUNITY VBS ONELORD È ONEFAITH È ONEBAPTISM È ONELOVE JOIN US JULY 20-24, 2014 AT ST. JOHN’S! BETHEL REFORMED 230 E. 23rd St., Sterling Rev. Gary DeKoekkoek (815) 626-1816 secretary@bethelreformed.com www.bethelreformed.com 9:30am Sunday Worship 10:50am Sunday School FIRST CHRISTIAN 3400 Sixth Ave., Sterling Rev. Courtney Chandler (815) 625-6851 office@firstchristianchurchofsterling.org www.firstchristianchurchofsterling.org 9:00am Sunday School 10:15am Sunday Worship FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 410 Second Ave., Sterling Rev. Christina Berry (815) 625-0452 firstpresbyteriansterling@live.com www.firstpresbyteriansterling.org 9:30am Sunday Worship GRACE EPISCOPAL 707 First Ave., Sterling Rev. Peg Williams (815) 625-0442 office@gracechurchstg.org www.gracechurchstg.org 9:00am Sunday Worship Noon Wednesday Eucharist ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN (ELCA) 703 Third Ave., Sterling Rev. Mark Oehlert. office@stjohnssterling.org www.stjohnssterling.org 9:30am Sunday Worship 5:00pm Wednesday Ministry Night ST. PAUL LUTHERAN (ELCA) 701 16th Ave., Sterling Rev. Brandon Nelson (815) 625-3069 www.stpaulsterling.com 9:00am Sunday Worship 10:15am Sunday Christian Ed

BETHEL REFORMED, FIRST CHRISTIAN, FIRST PRESBYTERIAN, GRACE EPISCOPAL, ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN & ST. PAUL LUTHERAN WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US FOR WORSHIP & ACTIVITIES. VIEW OUR ARTICLES IN THIS MAGAZINE!

Faith & Family 2014

LOMC Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC) is celebrating a milestone of 40 years of ministry this year. A special celebration will take place at the annual AutumnFest celebration on Oct. 12, 2014. LOMC was owned and operated by the Illinois Synod of the Lutheran Church in America. In 1990, it was separately incorporated and elected its own Board of Directors. LOMC is the only outdoor ministry camp affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (a predecessor body of the current Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).

Originally LOMC was primarily a summer camp for youth.

Through the years, and particularly in the last 10 years, LOMC has become a year-round ministry including summer camp, year-round retreats and special activities.

LOMC isn’t just a summer camp and it’s not just for kids.

LOMC has moved from a largely homogenous group to an ecumenical place of gathering and celebration.

Freedom Tree Village was built in 1998 to accommodate adult retreats and activities including family reunions, church council retreats and many special activities such as scrapbooking retreats as well as confirmation retreats, adult Bible studies and workshops.

LOMC is the host site for a new worshipping community called Freedom Lutheran. Fifty members of Freedom Lutheran worship at the Ragnar Moline Dining Hall every Sunday at 9:45am.

This month, LOMC is adding a new zip line. It will be 1,200 ft. long, the longest single span zip line of its kind in the state of Illinois. The ride will last sixty seconds over a 110 ft. change in elevation with a maximum traveling speed of 40 mph. The experience of this ride will be something our campers will never forget and come back to LOMC to ride again and again.

Throughout the years, LOMC has remained a faith-based ministry where people come to feel God’s calling. LOMC is a place where our guests, young and old, grow and learn spiritually and are open to God’s word.

Our mission “To be the church in outdoor settings, nurturing Christian faith and providing experiences connecting the Word of God with the World of God” has not changed.

About half of the groups and individuals participating in the LOMC ministry are Lutheran. Many other church denominations plan meetings and retreats at LOMC. Public and private schools come to LOMC for a day or several days of environmental education. Urban youth organizations, such as Youth Build in Rockford, come to LOMC each year.

LOMC is a place for all people to come and get away to enjoy 640 acres of forest, prairie, hiking trails, pond and meadows. All of LOMC is open to the public. Our guests can enjoy all facilities from over night lodging to day trips. Summer camp, including day camp, is open to all.

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Faith & Family 2014

Sacred Heart Church Our 2nd graders will be receiving Holy Communion for the first time May 4, as they have been preparing all year in our Religion Classes on Sunday mornings and in the 2nd grade class rooms at St. Mary and St. Andrew Schools. These youngsters have been patiently waiting from the time they could walk forward at Mass, with their parents, watching as it seems everyone else is able to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, except them.

Our Queen Mary, chosen mother of Jesus, will also be crowned the weekend of May 3 & 4, as the month of May we honor Mary and her special role in bringing the Son of God into the world. We pray to Mary to intercede for us, as we know, just as she was hand picked by the Lord to be the vessel for the Son, she is in heaven next to Jesus, so we pray to her asking her to give our prayers Him. Each summer the junior and senior high school members of our youth group go on a mission trip. Our youth group has worked in many inner city work sites from assisting the homeless, being with the elderly, comforting and working next to mentally disabled, playing with and mentoring youth to gutting and rebuilding homes and even landscaping. Many of our youth group members have taken part in mission trips during college, traveling, studying abroad and even finding careers in many of the areas that they ministered to while on a mission trip. The Sacred Heart community is very generous and the youth are able to raise funds to spend a week away which includes one day of â&#x20AC;&#x153;funâ&#x20AC;?.

This summer we will also be hosting a Totus Tuus Day Camp the week of July 13th. A team of college students come in for the week and spend evenings, Sunday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday with the 7th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12th grade in activities and discussions geared to that age group. 1st â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6th grade will gather during the day Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday. They will be having lots of fun with our faith in games, classes and projects. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great week, held right here, at Sacred Heart Church.

St. Andrew Church In March of 2005, Divine Mercy Sunday, which is the Sunday after Easter, the Divine Mercy Chapel at St. Andrew Church opened its doors. As Catholics, our greatest gift that Jesus gave us is His Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist. We have the honor and blessing of receiving Jesus daily if this is our wish. Another great gift is right here in the Divine Mercy Chapel. Here, the Real Presence is revealed to us twenty-four hours almost every day of the year. The time spent here can be the most joyful, peaceful experience you can encounter.

Eucharistic Adoration helps us to develop our own spiritual life beyond the Mass. Private prayer and adoration in turn will help with our participation at Mass. We receive many benefits from having an adoration chapel. Pope John Paul II thought that adoration was so important that he began perpetual adoration in St. Peter Basilica in Rome in 1991. Mother Teresa was asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What would save the world?â&#x20AC;?

Mother replied, â&#x20AC;&#x153;My answer is Prayer. What we need is for every parish to come before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in holy hours of prayer.â&#x20AC;?

We all have very busy lives, with our families, work, and social life, but taking time to spend one hour in adoration will help us get the right balance in our busy lives. We may have to get up one hour early, or get up in the middle of the night, one day a week. For some people, getting up in the middle of the night works best for them. At that time, their mind is free of all the clutter of the day. The total presence of Jesus in the Eucharist becomes more real and they feel like the only two people in the world.

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St. Andrew Catholic Church

Weekend Mass Schedule Saturday 5:00 pm Sunday 7:15 am & 9:00 am Weekday Mass Schedule: Mon. - Thu. 7:00 am During school year Wednesday- 8:15 am Friday 5:30 pm; Saturday 8:00 am Confession Times: Sat. 4-4:45 pm and Tuesday after daily mass.

708 10th Ave., Rock Falls, IL

815-625-4508

www.standrewrockfalls.org

St. Mary's Catholic Church Mass Schedule Ma English Monday - Friday: 8:30 am Saturday: 8:30 am Saturday: 5:00 pm Sunday: 7:00 am, 8:30 am, 10:00 am Spanish Sunday: 11:30 am

600 Avenue B, Sterling, IL

815-625-0640

www.stmarysterling.com

Sacred Heart Parish

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815-625-1134

www.sacredheartparish.net

Faith & Family 2014

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Thrivent Financial Larry Cooper Larry.cooper@thrivent.com 815-625-2200 Dawn Kirchhoff dawn.kirchhoff@thrivent.com 815-441-9305 (cell) Follow us on Twitter @ThriventMedia

Thrivent Financial posts fifth consecutive year of growth; announces impact in Lee and Whiteside Counties.

Organization welcomes Christians to membership ranks, unveils refreshed brand STERLING, IL (April, 2014)â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thrivent Financial announced that its 2013 financial results led to a fifth consecutive year of growth for the not-for-profit member-

ship organization. The organization continued to increase its financial strength as assets under management, revenue and surplus all continued to climb in 2013.

Thriventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outreach funding also continued to grow, as Thrivent and its members contributed $182.7 million in direct support to charitable organizations, schools, congregations and communities across the country. Thrivent members volunteered more than 8.6 million volunteer hours in 2013.

Assets under management, total revenue, total surplus, and life insurance in force all rose as Thrivent experienced one of its best years of performance in its 112-year history. Assets under manage-

ment grew to $90.4 billion, up 9.9 percent over 2012, while total revenue was up 2.4 percent, climbing to $8.5 billion from the previous year. Total surplus, a key indicator of overall financial strength and stability of a financial services organization, reached $6.9 billion, 12.7 percent higher than 2012, and now stands at an all-time high for the organization. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had yet another very strong year,â&#x20AC;? according to Dawn Kirchhhoff and Larry Cooper, Financial Representatives with Thrivent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our 2013 results not only demonstrate our ongoing strength and stability, but also the difference our members make in our local community as well as communities around the world.â&#x20AC;?

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Mission:

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Christ Lutheran School, guided by the Holy Spirit, aspires to nurture, educate, and witness to Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children the Gospel of Jesus Christ as revealed in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word.

Faith & Family 2014 Community impact Thrivent, its members and its employees continue to have a positive impact in communities nationwide as a result of giving and volunteerism. In 2013, the organization and its members gave $182.7 million in direct support to charitable organizations, schools, congregations and individuals in need. The Thrivent Financial Foundation awarded nearly $18.1 million through its Lutheran community and corporate community programs.

Thrivent members and others volunteered approximately 8.6 million hours in communities nationwide.

Thrivent Choice The Thrivent Choice program continued to allow members to have a voice in the way some of Thrivent’s charitable outreach funds are distributed in communities around the world. Nationwide, $49 million in funding was distributed to more than 22,000 congregations and non-profit organizations through the program in 2013. By directing Choice Dollars, eligible benefit members recommended that Thrivent distribute grant funds to 26 congregations and organizations in Lee and Whiteside area. A total of $73,651 in Choice Dollars were received by these organizations locally.

Brand changes beginning March 3 Thrivent has refreshed its brand to better express the story of the organization and to help more Christians feel welcome. This change is a natural next step following the membership’s vote to extend the common bond from Lutherans to Christians, which occurred in May of 2013. Starting March 3, Thrivent is incorporating new brand elements, including a new logo and tagline, into signage, stationery and other materials throughout 2014.

As a membership organization of Christians, the mission of the organization is the same: it strives to serve members and society by guiding both to be wise with money and live generously.

The new logo is made up of a heart, which represents caring and generosity. A cross symbolizes faith, and the path-like arc of the cross represents a journey through life toward financial security symbolizing Thrivent’s commitment to serving members and being their guide. Together, the elements represent the common bond shared by Thrivent members and the generous nature of the membership organization. Thrivent’s new tagline is “Connecting faith & finances for goodTM.” “I’m excited to be able to help guide more Christians as they look to combine faith with finances and generosity,” said Cooper and Kirchhoff. “Our community has benefitted from the generosity of Thrivent members in the past, and we look forward to continuing to make a difference.”

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Faith & Family 2014

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First Christian Church First Christian Church of Sterling: Living Koinonia

By Rev. Courtney M. Chandler He walked in a church one Sunday, carrying an overstuffed duffle bag. His clothes were worn and ragged. His face was dirt stained. He had not shaved in weeks. He was tired. He looked as if life had dealt him a difficult hand and he had lost everything. He walked into the church and sat down on the front row with the duffle bag in his lap. He sat alone. As the minister stood to deliver the message, the man sat with a faraway look in his eyes. Tears ran down his cheek. No one noticed. When worship was over, the congregation met for cookies and punch in the parlor. It said in the bulletin all were invited, so the man picked up his overstuffed duffle bag and

We

made his way to the parlor. He found the table where he picked up a cookie and a glass of punch. He looked around the room. A few people looked his way.

Mostly they pretended not to see him.

When he finished his refreshment he went looking for the minister. The minister was surrounded by church members who were laughing and sharing stories about their golf game. The minister never even spoke to him. The church members ignored him. He took his large, overstuffed duffle bag, threw it over his shoulder and left.

Koinonia is a Greek word for which we have no real English words to fully describe its meaning. However, Websterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dictionary describes Koinonia as an intimate, spiritual communion and participative sharing in a common religious commitment and spiritual community.

Koinonia is the ultimate way of looking at what a faith community should be like.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ideal we strive to reach.

Living life in Christian community means being gracious and refusing to judge. Living life in Christian community means allowing the Spirit in and allowing it take over our lives; fill our hearts and share love, compassion, and kindness. Living life in Christian community means welcoming all people. It means giving every person a place to lay their burdens down. We are to help each other to carry the heavy load of life. This is what happens when we live in Christian community and experience Koinonia.

It had been weeks since the man had last walked into a church.

He decided to try again, this time going to a different church. He came in carrying his overstuffed duffle bag.

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First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ)

Rev. Courtney Montgomery Chandler

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Faith & Family 2014 His clothes dirty. His face worn and unshaven. He made his way to the front and sat, holding his heavy load. As the minister stood to pray he looked at the man, smiled and nodded. The man nodded back. When the sermon ended, the minister invited everyone present to join him at the table of hope, forgiveness, love, and grace. The deacons began to serve communion. Their first stop was to the man with the duffle bag sitting in the front.

“Welcome to our church,” a lady deacon whispered as she held out the tray with bread.

“We’re so glad you’re here,” whispered the man deacon who held out a tray with cups of juice.

The man took communion for the first time in…well, he could not remember. After worship was over, this church, like the other, had a time of fellowship with cookies and punch. People came to him and welcomed him.

“That bag looks heavy. I’ll carry it for you,” Said an older man in suit and tie.

“You don’t have to,” the man answered.

The older man smiled and said, “I know I don’t have to. I want to.” The older man picked up the bag, “What’s in here?

This thing weighs a ton!”

“You can open it if you like,” said the man.

A young woman in her 20’s walked up. “What do you have in there?” She asked.

The older gentleman opened the bag. “Wow!” he exclaimed.

“How long have you been carrying this stuff around?”

“A long time…probably too long.” The man said.

The older man reached in and pulled out a huge package of shame and said, “I’m going to take this away for you. You don’t need to feel ashamed anymore.”

“May I?” asked the woman in her 20’s. She reached in and pulled out a large container of guilt. “Please, let me help you.

You don’t need to carry this with you anymore. You’re forgiven.”

Soon a crowd began to form.

“I’ll help you carry this grief. No one needs to carry that alone.”

“Give me the loneliness. Know that you are never alone.”

“I’ll take brokenness…I’ll bring whatever it is you need to heal.”

“Let me carry your sadness for a while. You deserve a moment of happiness.”

“I’ll take away the worthlessness. Everyone has a gift.

I’ll help you find yours. You are needed. God can use you.”

Before the man knew it, the congregation had taken away the heavy load. The once overstuffed duffle bag now appeared deflated. He began to cry. Then he felt someone staring at him and he looked up. There in front of him was a little girl of about 8 years old. She had black hair, brown eyes and wore a yellow dress. She reached up and placed her small hands on the sides of his cheeks and smiled. With a twinkle in her eye she simply said, “You are loved. You are home.”

Koinonia.

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Faith & Family 2014

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First United Methodist Church in Dixon In May of 1837, a small group of faithful people started the first church in Dixon, and this church would become what is now the First United Methodist Church. They had the vision that this church would be a place that would transform lives and their community.

Our mission still this day is to connect people with Jesus Christ, transforming lives, and the places we live. We have celebrated 177 years of being faithful to that early vision and strive daily to be used by God to make an impact in the people’s lives and our community.

Many people in our church find ways they can serve others through various avenues according to their gifts. Many volunteer at the Dixon Food Pantry, which began as a ministry of our church over 30 years ago. People stock shelves, buy groceries, prepare groceries to go home, and give of their resources, helping to feed over 10,000 people this past year. Others use their gifts to work on teams that have done repairs on people’s homes, helping clean up homes affected by the tornado in Washington, IL. We have sent work teams as far as Louisiana,

Ohio, and Iowa in the past, and have also worked right here in Dixon, making a real difference in meeting the needs of others. Others use their gifts crafting to make items to sell at the Holiday Bazaar to fund mission projects throughout the world so that lives are transformed in places where we may never travel. Many people volunteer delivering for Meals on Wheels or working at the Leydig Center providing a place where people can purchase necessary items for living that are inexpensive.

These are just some of the ways we live out our faith by serving others to transform their lives, our community, and our world. We continue to be involved in our community by volunteering at area schools by helping students with reading, math, or whatever teachers see as beneficial. In the past, we hosted a family fun fair for students and their families providing an evening of fun, games and food. Our church also voluntarily lets area non-profit organizations such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, etc. the use of lower level rooms for meetings and functions.

Our Vacation Bible School, one of the largest attended in Dixon. Is great for children of all ages. Crafts, games, Bible study, snacks, etc. provide children with a wonderful summer start!

Our members enjoy using their gift of music to bless others in our worship services. Some sing in choirs, play in our bell choir, or use their gifts in the women’s ensemble, or as a soloist. We worship together in a traditional worship atmosphere at 10:00 am on Sunday in the Sanctuary, and in a more casual setting at 5:00 pm Saturday in the Chapel. Our new program called Powerhouse Kids will help children grow in their faith and worship in a high energy setting at 9:40 am on Sundays. Our older youth (Cross Current) meet on Sunday afternoons to grow along with others in their faith and share life together. Adults meet in small groups at various times throughout the week to grow in their faith. We launched a new worship experience in our community called “The Rock” to connect the next generation to Jesus Christ and one another so that we can continue to transform lives and our community.

Our Mission is to connect people with Jesus Christ and to each other to transform lives and our community.

Visit www.fumcdixon.org for more information.

CASUAL WORSHIP SERVICE 5:00 p.m. Saturday in the Chapel TRADITIONAL WORSHIP SERVICE 10:00 a.m. Sunday in the Sanctuary FRESH ENCOUNTERS PRAYER SERVICE 7:00 p.m. Wednesday in the Chapel

POWERHOUSE KIDS: 9:40 a.m. Sunday

ADULT SMALL GROUPS: 8:45 a.m. Sunday CHILDCARE: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Sunday

CROSS CURRENT YOUTH: 4:30 p.m. Sunday

First United Methodist Church 202 South Peoria Avenue Dixon, Illinois 61028

(815) 284-2849

9 Ways to Teach Your Child About Charity How to make family giving a habit.

By Chick Moorman and Thomas Haller

Inspired Giving Charity and the spirit of giving have been elevated to a new level in the past few years, following natural disasters, war in Iraq, and terrorist attacks around the JOREH $IWHU ZLWQHVVLQJ WKH KRUULĂ&#x20AC;F LPDJHV of pain and suffering streaming steadily across their TV sets, more people than ever before have dipped deeper into their own pockets to offer needed relief to the survivors of unprecedented tragedies.

Many parents are using the destruction delivered by these catastrophes as an opportunity to help children learn about charity and the importance of reaching out to others in their time of need. They have made generous family donations, often involving their children in picking out the charity, writing the check, and preparing and mailing the envelope. They have allowed their children to witness turning the pain and grief of unimaginable loss into a time of extending love and compassion to unknown people half way around the world.

Clearly, recent devastation provides an opportune time to teach children about charity. But what if parents want lessons about charity to be more than a onetime occurrence? What if they want the spirit of giving to be a way of life for their children? How do they make charity become a habit?

Family Charity Ideas To help your children acquire the habit of charity, consider implementing as a family the strategies which follow.

1. Donate clothes.

2. Help neighbors.

3. Give blood.

4. Make birthdays charitable.

5. Include pets.

6. Deliver nutrition.

7. Change for a difference.

8. Help elders.

9. Pitch in.

By implementing some of these ideas or others like them, you will be teaching your children that charity is not reserved only for emergencies. You will be helping them appreciate that reaching out to others in need is a way of life, rather than a moment in time when a catastrophic disaster occurs. Remember, while you are giving to others, you are giving your children important messages about your beliefs concerning the spirit of giving.

Faith & Family 2014

Once Saved Always Saved? netbiblestudy.net

By Ron Boatwright

20 There are those who say that “once you are saved you are always saved”. They say that it is impossible to fall from God’s grace regardless of what you do. This may sound good and comforting, but let’s see what the Bible says. In 1 Corinthians 9:27 the apostle Paul says, “But I buffet my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” Paul said that it was possible for him to become a castaway.

If Paul became a castaway he would be lost.

In 1 Corinthians 10:12 Paul gives a warning to the Christians at Corinth by saying, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” Why such a warning if it is impossible to fall? So the very people, who think they cannot fall, are given a warning to take heed lest they fall.

In Galatians 5:4 we read, “You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by the law; you have fallen from grace.” Isn’t it strange, that people who say they believe the Bible also say that we cannot fall from grace, when the Bible so plainly says that we can fall from grace. Who are we to believe, God or man? Even though many religious bodies say that you cannot fall from grace, the Bible clearly says that people can fall from

grace. And without God’s grace we cannot be saved.

The doctrine of “once saved always saved” and that you cannot fall from God’s grace and be lost is a doctrine that originated with Satan. Satan wants people to believe that they cannot fall from grace and be lost. In Genesis 2:17 God told Adam and Eve not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and the day they ate of it they would surely die. But in Genesis 3:4 Satan told Eve, “You will not surely die”. Satan only added the word “not” to what God had said. Just as Satan told a lie to Eve, Satan is still deceiving people today by telling them they canNOT fall from grace and once they are saved, they are always saved. He is trying to lull people into complacency. This is one of the many ways that Satan deceives people so they will be eternally lost. But 2 Peter 1:10 says, “be even more diligent to make your call and election sure.”

God’s promises are conditional upon our doing His will. Jesus says in Matthew 7:21, “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven.” And also Hebrews 5:9 says concerning Jesus that “He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.”

Experience the Refreshing Presence of the Lord!

Join us for Celebration Worship Sunday, 10am

Growing Faith, Family, & Friendships!

1403 Hemlock Avenue, Dixon Ph. 815.284.8680 or 815.440.4100 Website: www.glcdixon.org Pastor Steve Young

Faith & Family 2014

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Faith Christian School Faith Christian School is a Christcentered ministry, committed to changing the world by developing students in character, scholarship and leadership.

This is accomplished through a partnership with parents, providing their children with an opportunity for development of the whole person through academics, ethics, and service. The foundation for this development is the Bible, Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holy Word.

school service projects and short term mission trips.

The teachers and staff at Faith Christian School are fully committed to partnering with parents to provide a safe, caring environment while still challenging students to strive for academic excellence, personal accountability, and service within their own community and beyond.

This year, the seniors (pictured) took a trip to Belize with the Praying Pelican Missions Organization. Their team was partnered with a local pastor and church in Rootsville, Belize City. Throughout the week the seniors were involved in childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s after school programs, visits to an orphanage, and Sister Ceciliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home for the Elderly, as well as food distribution and home visits to many families from the church. God blessed them with extra ministry money to purchase a much needed laptop for the Rootsville church pastor and a washing machine for the pastorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family. This trip was definitely an eye opening and rewarding experience for these seniors.

We offer a comprehensive curriculum including dual enrollment with area colleges, as well as sports, music, and art programs. We also provide many different opportunities to serve others locally and worldwide through Key Club, high

For the 2014 Spring Musical, the Faith Christian School Fine Arts Department is excited to announce the upcoming student production of Rodgers and Hammersteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beloved musical, The Sound of Music. Getting to Knowâ&#x20AC;ŚThe Sound

of Music is adapted from the musical The Sound of Music, featuring music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, and a book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, which was based on the book â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Story of the Trapp Family Singersâ&#x20AC;? by Maria Augusta Trapp.

With a cast of 46 students in this full-stage production, audiences will sure to be pleased as the timeless story of the VonTrapp Family is told through unforgettable song and dialogue. Performances dates are Friday, May 9, at 6:30p.m., and Saturday, May 10, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased through the Faith Christian School office.

If you are interested in learning more about Faith Christian School of Grand Detour, please contact us at 815-652-4806.

Registration for new families begins May 1, 2014.

A Ministry of Faith Assembly of Grand Detour â&#x20AC;&#x153;The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.â&#x20AC;?

-Proverbs 9:10

here should be more to life 5 than maintenance-free living.

To learn more about our affordable housing and rehabilitation/skilled care communities, call (815) 537-5705.

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Faith & Family 2014

Make Heritage Woods Your Home!

22

Why should your family lend a helping hand? kidshealth.org

It feels good. The satisfaction and pride that come from helping others are important reasons to volunteer. When you commit your time and effort to an organization or a cause you feel strongly about, the feeling of fulfillment can be endless.

Enjoy the worry-free lifestyle seniors deserve!

Heritage Woods is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults and their families.

Not just any supportive living community, but one that provides exceptional care, support and dignity to all of our residents. Affordable for all incomes, call Denise Garcia for more information.

It strengthens your community. Organizations and agencies that use volunteers are providing important services at low or no cost to those who need them. When a community is doing well as a whole, its individuals are better off, too.

It can strengthen your family. Volunteerism is a great way for families to have fun and feel closer. But many people say they don't have the time to volunteer after fulfilling work and family commitments. If that's the case, try rethinking some of your free time as a family. You could select just one or two projects a year and make them a family tradition (for example, making and donating gift baskets to care facilities for the elderly around the holidays).

Shalom Assembly of Yahweh Uncovering the Hebrew Roots of Christianity

To arrange a visit contact Denise Garcia, Marketing Director

815-625-7045

marketing@hw-sterling-slf.com 2205 Oak Grove Ave., Sterling (3 Blocks N. of W. LeFevre) Managed by BMA Management, Ltd. www.bma-mgmt.com

Services every Saturday at 1:30pm

9843 Hoover Rd Rock Falls, IL 61071 815-718-1323

www.forhisname.com

Faith & Family 2014

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Abiding Word Church shared, “We tell stories on each other.

The ups and downs of marriage, ministry, raising kids, and life. We think that sharing that part of our life is so important. That we’re human too, and just because we are pastors, doesn’t mean that we don’t have struggles and difficulties in life.”

Pastor Terri has taken on the great task of ministry planner. Organizing the church’s planning calendar is a massive undertaking. Each week, Pastor Terri interacts with multiple ministry department leaders to plan for the fantastic church services that take place on Saturday and Sunday at Abiding Word. She facilitates the church “creative team” that brands sermon series’ as well.

Each weekend service doesn’t just happen. Special preparation is made that entails meeting with the creative team, audio, video, ushers, greeters, volunteers, music, sermon planning with Pastor Scott, props, social media, church website, church bulletins (paper and online), and special creative invites for church members to invite friends all goes into making each service at Abiding Word Church an experience that touches lives.

Pastor Terri also co-directs the children’s ministry with Denise Harts. The Orange curriculum that was introduced last year has been a huge success.

PASTOR SCOTT & TERRI PORTER: A MINISTRY TEAM Rev. Scott Porter came home to the Rock River Valley to serve in ministry when he was 21 years old. Two days after graduating from RHEMA Bible Training College in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he started on staff as the assistant pastor at the, then, Abiding Word Christian Center.

In May, Pastor Scott will have been serving in ministry at Abiding Word Church for 28 years. His wife, of 30 years, Terri, an ordained minister as well, has always been active and involved in a myriad of ministries at the church.

In March, Abiding Word Church was happy to announce that Terri would join her husband as co-pastor of the church, with Scott serving as lead pastor.

Their offices are across the hall from each other, and the work that is being done is enormous. The church is in a good place, and growing, and growing once again.

Scott and Terri’s love for one another and the people is evident when, from time to time, they “team teach” a sermon together. When this takes place, it is a time of learning, growing, and sharing of stories. Then, hilarity ensues. Scott

When Pastor Terri was asked what it was like serving in ministry with her husband? She stated, “It gives a different perspective to the ministry as a whole.

Both of us, as individuals, as a man and a woman, brings a unique perspective that helps our congregation, for the better. It brings a balance, and that is healthy.”

Pastor Scott said, “Terri has brought a tremendous amount of creative energy to the church. She is doing a fantastic job.

I’m so happy that the corporate board of our church had such vision to take this step to ensure that Abiding Word continues to be a blessing to our community.

Our mission, as a church, is to ‘Love God, Love People, and Serve the World!’

I turn 50 years old in June, and I feel like I’m just getting started. I truly believe, the best is yet to come!”

Faith & Family 2014

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