As Advent leads us to Christmas, we extend a heartfelt

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1 THE December 19, 2017 Vol. 22, Issue 2 WEST DES MOINES CHRISTIAN CHURCH NEWS AND INFORMATION MAY YOUR CHRISTMAS BE FILLED WITH LOVE & JOY! As Advent leads us to Christmas, we extend a heartfelt invitation to you, your family and friends to join us as we worship and celebrate the birth of Christ. On CHRISTMAS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, there will be one morning service at 10:30 and two candlelight and communion services at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. Note: Childcare will be provided at the 10:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. services only. CHRISTMAS SUNDAY SCHEDULE 10:30 AM Service How do we receive Love? Luke 2:1-7 Dr. Ehrhardt 5:30 PM Family Candlelight and Communion Service featuring the Youth; music shared by the Children, Youth, and The Band 6:30 PM All-Church Supper in Fellowship Hall Menu: Chicken & Noodles over Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Strawberry Pretzel Salad, Rolls with butter, and Christmas Sweets 8:30 PM Candlelight and Communion Service featuring Instrumentalists, Small Groups and Soloists The WDMCC staff appreciates all the love and support you have shared with us and our families this year. We look forward to sharing in more great ministry in 2018! May the miracle of Christmas find you safe in the peace of God and warm in the light of Christ! Adult Ministries Offers Small Group Programming We are happy to announce some exciting opportunities coming in January for small group get-togethers. We will provide a chili lunch for our WDM Fire Department on Wednesday, January 24. To prep for the meal, we will meet on Tuesday, January 23 and deliver it the next day. On Thursday, February 8 at 7 p.m., our own Kirk Wehrspan, DC, CCEP, will give a Healthy Living class on stretching and flexibility called Ways to Protect Your Back (and Feet, Knees, and Hips too!). Watch for more details coming soon on these and other great activities coming this winter! SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 ONE 10:30 AM SERVICE Sermon: 525,600 Eccles. 3:1-13 Dr. Randy Ehrhardt (Church School will not meet.) Save the Date For All- Church Bowling Party! Join us for some bowling fun from 2-4 p.m. at Warrior Lanes (Waukee) on Sunday, January 28. Snacks/drinks can be purchased from the bowling alley on your own. Cost: Adults - $10; Youth (6-12th grade) - $5; Children (5th grade & under) FREE! Sign up and make your payment at the kiosk in The Gathering area or in the office by January 21. We hope you can join us for this fun event! In This Issue January Food & Fun page 2 Winter Sewing Day page 2 Pickleball Anyone? page 3 Habitat Home Dedication page 3 Youth & Children's Ministries page 4 Church School For All Ages page 5 Year-End Tax News page 6 Wondering About WDMCC? page 6 Instant Church Directory App page 7

2 Calling All CYF Alumni, Post-High School Grads and College Students Home for the Holidays Join Randy on Wednesday, December 27 from 5-9 p.m. in the Youth Room for a night of food, fellowship, games, sharing memories and celebrating friendships found at WDMCC. Help spread the word about this special night! Bring a fun $5 gift for an exchange. RSVP to randy@wdmcc.org by Tuesday, December 26. We hope you'll join us we catch up with one another! Crossroads Class 12th Night of Christmas Party Because the 12 Days of Christmas don t start until December 25, we re keeping the holiday spirit going for the whole season! On the last night of Christmas, join us for a 12th Night of Christmas Party. When: Friday, January 5, 2018 from 6-8 PM Where: Robyn & Jordan Bles home We ll have a delicious potluck dinner and some fun Christmas and Epiphany Trivia. Child care is available at church from 5:45-8:15. Bring your child a sack lunch or feed them beforehand. Please RSVP to robyn@wdmcc.org by January 1. Join Us For Food & Fun On January 16 Everyone is welcome to join us for a delicious lunch including homemade cheese soup, ham salad sandwiches, chips, brownies, and beverages on Tuesday, January 16 at noon in Fellowship Hall. After lunch, you are invited to stay for Game Day which begins at 1 p.m. Join in playing a variety of fun games (Dominoes, Cribbage, cards, etc.)...or you can just come for lunch. Sign up at the kiosk or call the office by January 14. Winter Sewing Day Join us for a winter sewing day get-away on Saturday, January 20 (9 a.m. til 2 p.m.) in the gym building- room 111. Bring your sewing machine, knitting needles, embroidery or whatever you enjoy doing and spend the day working on your project and chatting with new and old friends. For lunch, bring your own sandwich and a treat to share with the others. Sign up at the kiosk in January or call the office. Give The Forever Gift As you prepare your Christmas shopping list, consider giving the Forever Gift by purchasing a brick or marker in memory of and/or to honor a loved one in WDMCC s beautiful Memory Garden, located between the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall buildings. Contact the Trustees through the office for more information. The Annual Christmas Luncheon Sunday, December 3 The Fellowship Hall was packed for the annual Christmas luncheon which was served family-style. Musical entertainment was provided by adults, youth and children of WDMCC. 2

3 Disciples Dining around Des Moines Do you like to go out to eat? Do you enjoy the company of fellow Christians? We have two monthly going-out-to-eat ministries for you! This fun is for all ages (working or retired couples and singles). To be put on a reminder list for either group, call or Martha in the office. (#1) MUNCHING WITH MARTHA is a monthly LUNCH get-together. Whether you come alone or with a friend, you're sure to have a great time! We'll dine on Thursday, January 18 (noon) at Legends American Grill (640 S. 50th St. WDM). Sign up at the kiosk in The Gathering by Sunday, January 14. Need more info? Contact Martha McDanel at or martha@wdmcc.org. (#2) DELISH is a once a month DINNER at 6 p.m. with church friends. Meet us Tuesday, January 30 (6 p.m.) at Maxie's (1311 Grand Ave. WDM). Since 1967, Maxie's has taken a simple approach to dining by offering great food, great service and great value. Enjoy mouthwatering sandwiches, pasta, chicken, steaks, seafood and more. Sign up at the kiosk in The Gathering by Sunday, January 28. Who Wants To Play Pickleball? Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in America today. Whether getting involved for a great cardio workout or to stay in shape, the game can help you stay active and healthy while providing hours of social entertainment and fun. Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Two, three, or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated ball, like a wiffle ball, over a net. The gym is available on Thursdays if you are interested in playing Pickleball, let Stephanie know ( or at the kiosk on Sundays) and if daytime or evening is better for you. Music News The Adult Choir will be on break from December 20 thru January 1. Regular Wednesday rehearsals will resume on January 3. All are welcome to join the choir in January as we prepare music for worship on January 8 and beyond! Youth Expressions will resume regular rehearsal/ meetings before Youth Group on January 7 at 4:30 p.m. We will be working to get ready for the Valentine s Dinner Program! Children s Choir will be singing at the 5:30 Christmas Eve worship service (reminder, no Friends in Faith on Dec. 20). The choir will resume regular Wednesday rehearsals during Friends in Faith on January 3. Their first Sunday back singing in worship will be January 14. JANUARY??? The Office Will Be Closed (Mon-Tues) DECEMBER 25 & 26 and (Mon) JANUARY 1, Home Sweet Home A dedication service was held on December 9 for the new Interfaith Habitat Build home built for Hekmat, Abeers and their two sons (left photo). Family, friends, builders and many volunteer workers packed the house on this special day. Several WDMCC volunteers helped with this labor of love. Rev. Robyn Bles said, "It feels really good knowing our church is coming together with our greater community." 3

4 CHILDREN's ministries Friends in Faith and The Membership Class will not meet during Christmas break on December 20 and 27. No Children s Church School December 24 and 31. Children s activities resume January 3, In Case Of Inclement Weather... Sunday morning cancellations for WDMCC will be announced on WHO-TV13, KCCI-TV8, and WHO-1040 AM radio. If there are extreme weather conditions on Wednesdays and WDM schools cancel or dismiss early, the Friends in Faith children will not meet. Find The Hidden Pictures 3 stars, 2 bells, 1 angel, 3 crosses, 1 staff and 2 candles are hidden in the manger. We love Children's Church School! Mark Your 2018 Calendar! December 24 & 31 no activities January 7 Iron Chef Cook-off January 14 Chi Rho/CYF January CYF Retreat January 21 Chi Rho Only January 28 Ministry Teams and Valentine Dinner Prep CYF Retreat January CYF will hang out at church and have activities away from the church from Friday, January 19 to Sunday, January 21. Weekend activities will include playing SARDINES, worship, cooking, watching movies, and just chilling out. We'll meet at WDMCC at 7 p.m. on Friday (please eat beforehand) and stay until we attend worship together on Sunday morning. Cost is $25 or $15 if you can only make it one night. Please sign up by Sunday, January Parents joined their little ones during the Children's Sermon on December 10. The Friends in Faith Children's Choir did a wonderful presentation of "Arrest These Merry Gentlemen" at Christmas Wonderland on December 9.

5 Church School Classes For All Ages Resumes January 7 At 9:30 A.M. GOOD FELLOWSHIP This multi-generational Bible study class led by Rev. Mike Armstrong, meets in the Library in the Fellowship Hall building. All adults are welcome. Y.E.S. (Young Energetic Seniors) This class peruses many biblical, spiritual, and life issues in a discussion-style format led by Ron Townsend and other Y.E.S. members. All seniors are welcome! They also meet 4 times a year for social opportunities and/or mission work and a monthly breakfast. The group meets in the Fellowship Hall Bldg-room 303. CONNECTIONS This discussion class looks at current topics/ issues from a faith and scriptural perspective and is led by Dr. Randy Ehrhardt and class members. We are in the midst of interesting and challenging times in our world and even closer to home. From social media to instant forms of communication, a difficult economy to an ever-changing world, challenges for young people, to daily facing new questions in science, health, government, society, and life; it is important to connect with a community for support, encouragement, conversation, education, challenge, and faith. The class meets in the Gym Bldg-room 113. Invite a friend and join us! CROSSROADS As professionals or folks just starting out in life, we re all seeking ways to live our faith beyond the church pew. Whether you have kids at home, or still feel like a kid yourself, we all can learn and laugh with one another as we figure out how to bring our faith to life in our very busy, everyday lives. We ll conclude our study of More Than Words: 10 Values for the Modern Family, and begin to explore the ways our Christian values provide a steady foundation in the midst of our busy lives and challenging world. In the New Year, we ll explore how we can more fully live out our values of compassion, generosity, joy, peace-building, forgiveness, and many more. The class meets in the Gym Bldg room 110 and is led by Rev. Robyn & Jordan Bles. YOUTH CLASSES Chi Rho (pronounced Ki -row), taught by Michele Ramsey, for grades 6-8 meets in the Fellowship Hall bldg-room 312. The group's name comes from the XP which are the first letters of the Greek words for Jesus Christ. CYF (Christian Youth Fellowship), taught by Shelly Nelson, for grades 9-12 meets in the Youth Room, which is the lower level of The Gathering. MEMBERSHIP CLASS 2018 All children entering 5th grade (and any unbaptized youth) are invited to join this special Wednesday class from 4-5 p.m. Discussion focuses on faith, hope, prayer, communion, baptism, and the beliefs of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Included are guest speakers, community service projects, field trips and fun activities. Each class member will be assigned an elder as their mentor for the year. The Class gathers a 2nd time on Sundays from 9:30-10:15 a.m. in the gym bldg-room 124. Each Sunday is filled with fun and exciting ways to look at topics impacting today s youth. For more info, contact Dr. Randy Ehrhardt (randy@wdmcc. org). If you have a 5th grade child and have not received a letter from the church, please contact the office. CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES NURSERY will have a minilesson and craft for 3 year olds. WONDERS OF THE WORD (W.O.W.) for ages 4 4th grade, is a fun way of presenting God s Word in four learning centers: Bible Story, Craft, Mission/ Activity, Food & Science, and Bible Story Video. At 9:30 a.m., we gather in the Gym Bldg-room 122 for a time of singing, celebration and collecting offering for our international and U.S. church mission trips and the Interfaith Habitat Build. The opening time together is followed by the learning centers. A different Bible story is explored each five weeks. At 10:15 a.m. the children return to room 122 where parents may pick them up. 5

6 Contributions from Community Support Campaigns We are humbled when friends and members designate West Des Moines Christian Church as the recipient of funds from employer sponsored community support campaigns. While we would like to be able to acknowledge these gifts to the donors, we are unable to do so as donor information is no longer provided with these payments. Please know that we are deeply grateful for your gifts! If you have any questions about these contributions, feel free to contact Claudette Sederburg, Financial Secretary, at the church. Important Year-End Tax News If you wish to deduct your 2017 contributions to WDMCC on your federal tax return, do not file before you receive your statement from WDMCC (to be mailed mid-january 2018). Some contributions may not be deductible if you file before receiving the statement. Contributions received in the offering or the church office by December 31 may be deducted for Contributions received in January 2018 may not be claimed even if backdated to Exception: Contributions postmarked in 2017 may be claimed even if they arrive at WDMCC in January Contact Claudette Sederburg, Financial Secretary, any time for information about your contributions. Return Stewardship Commitment Cards We are in the final stages of our Impact, Inspire, Invite stewardship campaign for the 2018 General Operating Budget. Thanks to everyone who has returned a commitment card! If you are planning to make a commitment to support the 2018 General Operating Budget, the Stewardship Committee encourages you to return your card to WDMCC at your earliest convenience. Every commitment is important! Together, we can make amazing ministry in 2018! First time guests and frequent visitors can now learn more about the church at the "Wondering about WDMCC" gatherings. Every 2nd Sunday of the month, after the 10:30 worship service, join a pastor and church member in Conference Room #316 (Fellowship Hall building) for casual conversation about our many ministry opportunities. This time is guided by your questions and interests we are here to partner with you on your path of discipleship. Mark your calendars for our next gathering, Sunday, January The Women's Book Group enjoyed their annual Christmas potluck on December 7. This friendly group is always happy to welcome new members. For more information, see page 7.

7 small groups, bible studies, and adult ministries Small groups are a great way to get connected to other people and build lasting relationships at WDMCC! ADULT CHOIR meets 6:30 p.m. in the Music Room, located behind the sanctuary. All adults and high school youth are welcome! Contact Pam Redford (pam@wdmcc.org). See page 3. CONNECTIONS This discussion class looks at current issues from a faith and scriptural perspective and is led by Dr. Randy Ehrhardt and class members. The class meets on 9:30 a.m. in the Gym Bldg-room 113. CROSSROADS CLASS This discussion class is for young professionals or those just starting out in life, those with kids at home or those who still feel like a kid! The class meets 9:30 a.m. in the Gym Bldg-room 110. See page 2 for details on the January Christmas party. Contact: Rev. Robyn Bles (robyn@wdmcc.org). DELISH! For all ages (working or retired couples & singles) wanting to dine with fellow Disciples. All are welcome to join them on Tues., Jan 30 (6p) at Maxie's in WDM. See page 3 for more details. FRIDAY BIBLE STUDY will resume in February. GAME DAY meets monthly on the 3rd Tuesday (Jan. 16) at 1 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Enjoy fellowship and refreshments and play a variety of fun games (Dominos, Cribbage, cards, etc.). See page 2. GOOD FELLOWSHIP BIBLE STUDY This multi-generational Bible study class meets on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. in the Library. Led by Rev. Mike Armstrong. All adults are welcome! HELPING HANDS This volunteer group meets on Mondays at 8 a.m. in the kitchen to do light housekeeping and enjoy fellowship. MEN S CURRENT ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP meets 7 a.m. at Panera Bread (4150 Westown Pkwy Ste 202). Note: The group will not meet on December 25 or January 1. Contact the office for more info. All men are welcome! MUNCHING WITH MARTHA This fun monthly lunch group is for all! On Thurs., Jan. 18 at noon, they will meet at Legends American Grill. See article on page 3. Sign up by Jan. 14 at the kiosk. Contact: Martha McDanel (martha@wdmcc.org). THERAPEUTIC THURSDAYS will begin January 11. They meet 9 a.m. in Gym Bldg-111 for crafting, creating, and working on various mission projects: hats/scarves for the annual collection, luncheon table decor, items for a Romanian orphanage, gifts for volunteers and more. WOMEN S BOOK GROUP will meet on Thursday, January 4 (7 p.m.) in the library to discuss An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff. Martha McDaniel will review. Contact the office for more info. WOMEN S BREAKFAST GROUP meets twice monthly on the 1st Friday and 2nd Tuesday of the month. On Fri., Jan. 5 at 9 a.m., they will meet at Perk Up (2700 University WDM). On Tues., Jan. 9 (9 a.m.), they will meet at Bakers Square in Clive. All women are welcome! Contact the office for more info. Y.E.S. GROUP (Young Energetic Seniors) meets for Church School, social and mission events, and breakfast on the 1st Saturday of each month (Jan. 7:45 a.m. (Hy-Vee 1725 Jordan Creek Pkwy). Contact the office for more info. Did you know you can get the church directory on your phone? It s a great way to learn the names of the fun folks sitting just a pew away from you and gets you connected to the whole WDMCC community. Follow these easy steps and you ll have the church directory at your fingertips: 1. Confirm your address is in the directory (if you re unsure, stephanie@wdmcc.org). 2. Download the Instant Church Directory app. 3. Plug in the code ed to you from the app you only have to do this once! If you have any questions, need to add an , phone #, or photo to your directory submission, please contact Stephanie. 7

8 Some portions of this newsletter have been deleted to protect the privacy of our congregation. 53rd annual Live Nativity Thank you to the youth, the sponsors, and other volunteers for making the 53rd annual Live Nativity a beautiful reality! 8

9 JANUARY deacons Some portions of this newsletter have been deleted to protect the privacy of our congregation. JANUARY GREETERS 2018 Board Meetings All WDMCC members are welcome to attend these 7 p.m. Tuesday meetings in Fellowship Hall. January 16 March 20 May 15 JANUARY WORSHIP & WONDER JANUARY ushers SCRIP=Easy Fundraising Buy cards as gifts or for your own shopping pleasure. There are 650+ participating retailers! Every order, big or small, adds up to help us pay down Sanctuary debt! We've raised more than $5,200 since beginning this program in March of Our next order date: January 21. If you have questions, just contact Stephanie in the office during the week or at the kiosk on Sunday. JANUARY SOUND TECHS OPERATING INCOME Received year to date as of December 10, $754, Expected year to date as of December 10, $795,

10 REGULAR WORSHIP SCHEDULE 8:30 and 10:30 A.M. Worship Services Church School at 9:30 classes for all ages! ONE 10:30 A.M. WORSHIP SERVICE Church School will not meet this day. How Do We Receive Love? Luke 2:1-7 Dr. Randy Ehrhardt AND TWO CANDLELIGHT AND COMMUNION CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES 5:30 and 8:30 PM Note: Childcare will be provided at the 10:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. services only. JOIN US FOR THE 6:30 PM ALL-CHURCH SUPPER! DECEMBER 31 Dr. Randy Ehrhardt 525,600 Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 One 10:30 Worship Service Church School will not meet. JANUARY 7, 2018 Rev. Robyn Bles Starlight, Star bright Isaiah 60:1-6 JANUARY 14 Dr. Randy Ehrhardt Create Your Own Happiness Matthew 5:3-12 WEST DES MOINES Christian Church 4501 Mills Civic Pkwy. West Des Moines, IA (515) Fax: (515) Office Hours: M-F 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. wdmcc@wdmcc.org facebook.com/wdmcc A Stephen Ministry Caring Congregation Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Christian Church in the Upper Midwest JANUARY 21 Rev. Robyn Bles Change Your Mind; Change Your World Jonah 3:1-5, 8-1 JANUARY 28 Dr. Randy Ehrhardt No Name, No Face John 9:1-11 wdmcc staff Dr. Randy Ehrhardt Senior Minister randy@wdmcc.org Rev. Robyn Bles Associate Minister robyn@wdmcc.org Rev. Mike Armstrong Pastoral Minister Martha McDanel Children and Elder Ministries martha@wdmcc.org Stephanie Murphy Office Administrator stephanie@wdmcc.org Joy Butler Creative Ministries, Caller Editor joy@wdmcc.org Claudette Sederburg Hospitality Ministries/ Financial Secretary claudette@wdmcc.org Pam Redford Music Director pam@wdmcc.org Nathan Green Music Specialist nathan@wdmcc.org Blaine Burright Facility Ministries blaine@wdmcc.org Becky Chaloupecky Bell & Ensemble Director/ Accompanist becky@wdmcc.org Sheryl Neal Accompanist Lisa Lewis Accompanist Kelley Ridgway Food Hostess The Caller newsletter is published monthly by West Des Moines Christian Church. Editor: Joy Butler Submit articles to joy@wdmcc.org. The next issue of this newsletter will mail out on January 23. Deadline to submit info: Monday, January 15.