Share & Care. April 2015 A Newsletter of the Escondido United Reformed Church

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Merryl Edith Ellis
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1 Share & Care April 2015 A Newsletter of the Escondido United Reformed Church

Youth of Yesterday will meet for lunch at Meadowbrook Village on Wednesday, April 8. Coffee at 10:30 with lunch to follow. Dr. Van Ee will lead us in a devotional and Mrs.

2 Youth of Yesterday will meet for lunch at Meadowbrook Village on Wednesday, April 8. Coffee at 10:30 with lunch to follow. Dr. Van Ee will lead us in a devotional and Mrs. Emily will bring students from Calvin Christian, who have participated in the Spring talent competition for our entertainment. Cost for the lunch is $7 and if you plan to attend, please sign the sheet on the Information Counter in the foyer. On March 31 I will be leaving Meadowbrook and moving to Altadena, California. to live with my daughter, Karen and my 6 year old grandson, Luke. I have arthritis in my hands and I drive with hand controls. It has become increasingly harder for me to drive distances. Luke and I moved to Escondido 5 1/2 years ago. We felt your love and support, especially during Luke s illness and his death 3 years ago. You have made me feel so welcome here and I will miss the Escondido church, the preaching, and the many friends I have made. My new address will be:.blessings, Joyce In case you missed GEMS is looking for a new head counselor to start in the Fall of school year. You do not have to have a child in GEMS to be head counselor. You and a friend could be co- head counselors? If you are interested or have questions, contact Michele or the church office. ADVANCE NOTICES Friday, April 10: Friday, April 17: Sunday, April 19: Tuesday, April 21: Thursday, May 14: Young People Spaghetti Dinner 5:30-7:30pm. CCS Spring Gala (see flyer for more details) GEMS Sunday CCS Society Meeting Ascension Day Service, 7:00pm.

On February 18 and 25, we had a widow/widower lunch at the

It is always a lot of fun visiting while having a wonderful

A few things about this group that I have come to know, that

go home to rest and John responded, No I have errands to run.

3 On February 18 and 25, we had a widow/widower lunch at the parsonage. It is always a lot of fun visiting while having a wonderful lunch. A few things about this group that I have come to know, that they are so full of joy and encouragement. They are also full of energy. Chris asked John toward the end of the lunch if he was going to go home to rest and John responded, No I have errands to run. I got a kick out of that because I think Chris is the one that needed a nap. On February 25, we celebrated my birthday at the second luncheon. I would like to thank all of you who came to visit with us, for the birthday cards, gifts, and wishes. I also want to thank Joke Van Die for all of her help. Chris and I look forward to the next widow/widower lunch..darcy

This summer, on July 4th, Steve, a member of our church since 2004 and teacher at Calvin Christian High School, will travel to Mzuzu, Malawi to volunteer at a Rafiki orphanage.

Elaine, John and Debby, who have also volunteered for this organization. Dr.

4 This summer, on July 4th, Steve, a member of our church since 2004 and teacher at Calvin Christian High School, will travel to Mzuzu, Malawi to volunteer at a Rafiki orphanage. Rafiki, which means friend in Swahili, operates orphanages in the ten poorest English speaking countries in Africa. Many of us may know Dr. Elaine, John and Debby, who have also volunteered for this organization. Dr. Dennis, a frequent pulpit supply for our church, professor at Westminster, and PCA pastor, is on Rafiki s Board of Directors. Each Rafiki orphanage village has a school for its residents. The schools teach from a Christian World and Life view summarized in their mission statement, The Education Program seeks to cultivate minds and hearts that love God, their neighbor, and all that is true, good, and beautiful. To be frank, I was a little concerned about going to Africa to volunteer, Steve explained, "But, after attending the training at Rafiki s headquarters in February, they encouraged me to break out of my comfort zone and help. They need teachers to fill-in for the missionaries who work there full-time, but need a break. I will most likely be assigned to work as a substitute teacher in the school. I am excited to live-out a little of the command to us in James 1:27 'Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.' Steve asks that you pray for his work there as well as that of the full-time missionaries and other short-term volunteers. All volunteers must pay for the costs associated with their time at the orphanage, including housing, food, health insurance, and transportation. Classis SW meet Tuesday, March 10 at the EURC. Classis SW consists of 12 churches and at least 2 delegates from each church attend. Visitors are welcome to attend the meeting. This year there were many extras that attended the meeting. The elders asked a Food Service Group to help with the meals for the day. Thank you to Joan for all the meal planning and shopping as well as Debbie who helped that day.

A Season Well Played By Marianne This past girls varsity basketball season was definitely one to remember.

Everyone had a job they could do for the team, and when everyone executed their job, it was a great thing to see.

We ended the season as league champions with a record of 22-5, the most winningest a Calvin Christian girls team has had.

But of course, this would not have been possible without the support of our coaches who inspired our plays and discovered many quotes and phrases to inspire us.

5 A Season Well Played By Marianne This past girls varsity basketball season was definitely one to remember. Out of the eleven members on the team, six of them were from the Escondido URC (Kara, Erica, Corrie, Katie, Jacqui, and Marianne). Everyone had a job they could do for the team, and when everyone executed their job, it was a great thing to see. We also had a great camaraderie, as we would goof off together before games, but when game time came, it was down to business. We ended the season as league champions with a record of 22-5, the most winningest a Calvin Christian girls team has had. There were many exciting moments and games in which we scored over 60 points, or everyone got a bucket, or we shut some of the other team s best players down defensively. But of course, this would not have been possible without the support of our coaches who inspired our plays and discovered many quotes and phrases to inspire us. Also our parents made this possible with their loyal game attendance and unconditional love and support. It was also great to see many friends from school, or youth group, or other loyal fans from church come to watch our games. Lastly, but most importantly, through God all this was possible and we hope that He was glorified through our playing of the game of basketball. I am so proud of how all the team members played this season and what we accomplished together.

Faith Expression Tour In the early morning of Thursday March 1 2, C a l v i n Christian s singing g r o u p, F a i t h Expression which i n c l u d e s e i g h t

We made stops at various local retirement homes in the Tucson area.

It was very enjoyable to get to talk to those living there and learn a little bit about them from the brief but enjoyable time we had with them.

Along with singing on this trip, we enjoyed a fun outing on Saturday the last day of our tour to Kartchner Caverns.

6 Faith Expression Tour In the early morning of Thursday March 1 2, C a l v i n Christian s singing g r o u p, F a i t h Expression which i n c l u d e s e i g h t members of the EURC, began our long awaited tour to Tucson, Arizona. Our trip began with an eight hour drive to our destination then a whirlwind of singing. We made stops at various local retirement homes in the Tucson area. When there we enjoyed singing to the wonderful people who lived in those places and enjoyed a time of talking to our eager and grateful audience of elders. It was very enjoyable to get to talk to those living there and learn a little bit about them from the brief but enjoyable time we had with them. We visited in all seven retirement and assisted living centers, each being a unique experience and quite enjoyable. Along with singing on this trip, we enjoyed a fun outing on Saturday the last day of our tour to Kartchner Caverns. These underground masterpieces were amazing and mysterious manifestations of God s handiwork throughout creation. A unique experience we had in the cavern was being able to sing with most of the members of our choir inside the cave! After this we headed back to California with many unforgettable experiences forever in our memories and reminders of how great God is throughout our lives....jacqui

Cadet Pinewood Derby On Saturday, March 7 th our annual cadet pinewood derby was held

This year a total of 50 different racers took part in the mornings events.

The cadet boys were divided into three age groups as well within their group.

Turkey award was also given out to the least speedy car in all three divisions.

The noise was deafening at times, but we made it through all the races without anyone

Thank you to all the boys and girls, for taking part in the races and working hard to

7 Cadet Pinewood Derby On Saturday, March 7 th our annual cadet pinewood derby was held in the church social hall. This year a total of 50 different racers took part in the mornings events. The races were broken down into three divisions: Gems / Cadets / and Open division. The cadet boys were divided into three age groups as well within their group. Trophies were awarded for top three in each area for speed and show, and the coveted Turkey award was also given out to the least speedy car in all three divisions. Crossroads San Marcos also took part in the races once again with their cadet boys. The noise was deafening at times, but we made it through all the races without anyone calling in the police for noise control. Thank you to all the boys and girls, for taking part in the races and working hard to make your incredible creations. Some of the noted designs this year were; The Mystery Machine, wedge of Gouda, a skateboard, a helicopter, and a Camaro modeled after Koos vehicle. Hope everyone had a great time, see you again next year.

9 June 24 Church Family Game Night July 22 Trivia Night August 12 Talent Show with Chili Cook-Off & Pie Bake-Off The Outreach and Fellowship Committees have teamed up for a new series of events called Summer Nights. (Don t worry, it has nothing to do with the song from Grease.) The purpose of these three nights is to promote fellowship and to provide an opportunity for outreach. You are encouraged to invite friends, co-workers, etc. to participate with our church family. If you re interested in helping, please contact Sarah or Jimmy. They ll have lots of ways for you to use your gifts! So, mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details in upcoming editions of the Share & Care and in the weekly bulletins!

LOGOS 2015 will feature keynote speaker Rip Pratt, pastor of youth and family of New Life PCA in Escondido, CA.

Jeremy Veldman of Covenant URC in Kalamazoo, MI and Rev. Aaron Verhoef of Covenant Reformed Church in Newton, NJ will lead workshops on the topics described on the opposite side.

We will also have a special men and women-only breakout session included in the program. Lodging will be in upscale cabins at Potter s Ranch, located in Union, Kentucky.

10 LOGOS 2015 Theme: Look, Seek and Serve! Based on the parable of the talents found in Matthew 25:14-30, this year s LOGOS summer conference will take place August 5-8 at the Potter s Ranch in Union, Kentucky, D.V. LOGOS 2015 will feature keynote speaker Rip Pratt, pastor of youth and family of New Life PCA in Escondido, CA. Rip has been a popular RYS convention speaker since the event s inception and we trust that his talks will greatly bless us all. Three related workshops, led by Rev. Brian Najapfor of Dutton URC, Rev. Jeremy Veldman of Covenant URC in Kalamazoo, MI and Rev. Aaron Verhoef of Covenant Reformed Church in Newton, NJ will lead workshops on the topics described on the opposite side. Every attendee will have the opportunity to hear three main sessions, three workshops and be part of a small group led by one of our young men. We will also have a special men and women-only breakout session included in the program. Lodging will be in upscale cabins at Potter s Ranch, located in Union, Kentucky. A limited number of preferred housing (condo-like atmosphere with inside bathrooms) will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis (approximately 10 men and women only). Attendees will be housed in order of postmark of payment. All rooms will contain linens and be air-conditioned. We are also very pleased to offer the Creation Museum as the scheduled day away activity (you may also want to visit nearby Cincinnati on your own). This eightyear-old, state-of-the art museum presents the biblical story of creation in a winsome and creative way, and includes the Stargazer s Planetarium. We believe that this venue will be greatly appreciated by all. Attendees will certainly appreciate the variety of low priced (b/w $5-$15) outdoor recreational options available: zip-line, climbing wall, archery, bb guns, paintball, paddle boats and canoes. Horse trail rides are $ Other more expensive activities include a high ropes course, renting sea-doos, pontoons and other boats on Gunpowder Creek. Social nurturing is also an important aspect of this annual conference. We would heartily encourage all post-high singles ages to consider spending some quality fellowship time with like-minded young adults from across the country. We would like to especially encourage everyone to participate in our annual talent show. Bring your instrument, skit, or voice along to share with the group! For those who live in the western part of the country, we are recommending that you use the nearby Cincinnati airport in order to attend. You must contact RYS Director Ed DeGraaf regarding air travel arrangements prior to booking to see if we can assist with ground transportation. The online registration deadline is July 15. To register, please sign in to the RYS website at reformedyouthservices.org, or mail the form opposite this page so we receive it by the above date. Cost is $ (U.S.) for the program only, $ (check or paypal) if you wish to enjoy the Creation Museum. Payment confirms registration and housing. Remember to include the required medical form (located online, please print off) and mail with your check. Paypal is also available online if you wish to use that payment option. Travel and parking is your own responsiblity. Late fee is $30.00, If you have any questions, please contact RYS Director Ed DeGraaf at (616) or rys@iserv.net.

11 LOGOS 2015 Registration Church Name Last First Sex M F Age Address City St./prov. Zip/postal code Phone College (or) Occupation address (optional): Roommate Choice (one or two people, please) I would be willing to be a small group leader. I would like to register for the LOGOS 2015 conference (only) at $ (U.S. Funds only, please). I would like to register for the LOGOS 2015 conference plus include the Creation Museum ($275.00) Mail this form (or sign up on-line) with payment to Reformed Youth Services by postmark July 15. Registration is confirmed when payment and medical form is received. Late fee is $ Please send your completed form (or register online), medical form and/or check to: LOGOS 2015, th Avenue, Hudsonville, MI Workshops Forgiven and Redeemed Rev. Brian Najapfour This workshop expounds Micah 7:18-19, a passage written when God s covenant people were prospering materially but declining morally. As a result of their sin, God s divine judgment came upon them. Yet, because of His mercy, God sent Micah to proclaim the message of forgiveness: Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. Rev. Brian Najapfour is the pastor of Dutton URC in Dutton, MI. Stand Up and Stand Out! Rev. Jeremy Veldman Jonah is a remarkable story on how the Lord commissions and then re-commissions a reluctant and fearful prophet to a terrifying evangelism opportunity. In the belly of a fish, the Lord graciously teaches Jonah that Salvation is from the Lord, and a few lessons about having compassion for the lost. Let s walk with Jonah on a journey on what it means to Stand Up and Stand Out for Christ courageously and compassionately. Rev. Jeremy Veldman is the pastor of Covenant URC in Kalamazoo, MI. Who s In Control? Rev. Aaron Verhoef As followers of Jesus, we would all say we know who s in control. But, like most things, living that out is another story. Could it be that we worry, have anxious thoughts, become frustrated, and make foolish choices because we forget the Author and Creator of our stories? Whose story is being written: your story or His story? Rev. Aaron Verhoef is pastor of Covenant Reformed Church in Newton, NJ. Reformed Youth Services is a youth ministry organization committed to the spiritual and social nurturing of our covenant youth. The ministry is overseen by a representative board and the consistory of Cornerstone URC in Hudsonville, MI. LOGOS a conference for Christian young adults with a reformed worldview August 5-8, 2015 Potter s Ranch Union, KY

12 APRIL OFFERING SCHEDULE DATE MORNING SERVICES EVENING SERVICE April 3 Good Friday Benevolent Fund April 5 General Fund/CCS Tuition Aid Fund CLIR-Rev. Bill Green April 12 General Fund/Building Fund Cadets (Grand Rapids) April 19 General Fund/CCS Legacy Fund GEMS (local) April 26 General Fund/Building Fund Gideons The General Fund offering not only support the ongoing expenses of our local congregation, but also other ministries such as: CLIR-Rev. Bill Green, NKST Sponsorship Program, and OURC (Oceanside). The deacons ask that everyone support the General Fund with 5% of their income and other causes with an additional 5% of their income. Descriptions of Offerings BENEVOLENT FUND This fund is administered by the deacons to those with financial needs in our congregation and in our community. CALVIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS TUITION AID This offering is used for tuition assistance for families from our church who are unable to pay full tuition at Calvin Christian Schools. The Deacons think that it is necessary to maintain at least two tuition aid offerings per month. Keep in mind that our commitment for tuition aid amounts to $58, for the school year. GIDEONS This offering will go to support the work of the Gideons as they provide Bibles to hotels and prisons all over the world. Many have been blessed by this ministry. BUILDING FUND is used to maintain the facilities and for any new building projects or improvements on the church properties. CCS LEGACY FUND Calvin Christian s Legacy Fund seeks to help families that cannot pay the full cost of education. The only consideration for assistance awards is the family level of financial need. REV. BILL GREEN is a missionary serving churches in the Tepeyac & Guadalupe area of Costa Rica. He also works with the Latin American Fellowship of Reformed Churches (CLIR) in the publication of Reformed literature in Spanish. CADETS (Grand Rapids) The money from this offering will be sent to the National Cadet Organization. This money is used to off-set expenses for the rather small organization. One offering per year is taken for this organization EURC - GEMS 3 rd - 8 th grade (local) is a program for girls in 3 rd - 8 th grade that meets twice a month on Mondays. They are involved in activities, Bible studies and service projects.

Share & Care December 2017 A Newsletter of the Escondido United Reformed Church

Share & Care December 2017 A Newsletter of the Escondido United Reformed Church Youth of Yesterday will meet for lunch at Meadowbrook Village on Wednesday, December 13. Coffee at 10:30 with lunch to follow.