Archive sept 12 2021 _ Dec 12 2021

December 12, 2021:

Hello, friends! Thanks for joining us in worship and also on this website! Here’s what took place this week at Revolution:

Diane Neakarse and Marnie Carlson read scripture and lit the candle of JOY on this third Sunday of Advent.

Today’s songs were “Jingle Bells”, “Feliz Navidad”, “Unspeakable Joy”, “Heart of Worship/Come Let Us Adore Him”, “Jesus Messiah”, “Famous One”, and “God With Us”. Pastor Billy’s sermon was called “Ghost of Christmas Future” with text from Luke 1:35-38. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Today was our annual Ugly Sweater contest and many of us showed up all decked out in the gaudiest outfits we could make or buy. Winners were 1st place: Freda Wolfenden with a gift card to Chipotle, 2nd Place: Bruce Smit with a Fullers car wash gift card, 3rd Place: Samantha Getty with a bag of Christmas snacks, and Cutest Couple: Lara and Dennis Smith with a gift card to Opa Greek Restaurant. Thanks to all who participated!

We were surprised and saddened to learn the Sandoval family has received a call to enter a different phase of their life of ministry, and their final service with us will be Jan. 9th. Elders and deacons prayed a prayer of blessing over them on stage today, and we saw many wiping tears on the crowd. Listen for upcoming plans for a departure celebration in coming weeks.

Ladies Christmas event, “Oh, Holy Night”, was Friday evening at the church with nearly 80 attending! Joy Katz was the speaker, and Brenda Hajek led the awesome group of ladies who volunteered to bake, decorate, set up and clean up to make it all possible. Some of our men even showed up late to put the sanctuary back together. Gift basket winners were Meredith, Janette, and Erin! Pans of extra food were delivered to the Manhattan Fire Dept. after the event.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. In last week’s show he welcomed Brenda Hajek and Joy Katz to discuss Christmas traditions and how to deal with holiday stress. “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s featured song was “God So Loved”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week’s topic was “The Holy Spirit” with guest, Ethan Rico.

Our Christmas Eve candlelight service is at 5 pm on Dec. 24th and should last near an hour. Who have you invited? There should not be even one empty seat on the most holy of holidays. Come early if you want a seat up front.

Ladies Book Club New Year Kickoff is Wednesday, January 5, 7 pm at the church. This is fellowship and snacks with an introduction to the new book. Questions? Speak with Penny Knott.

Donuts and Devotional is Jan. 8th, 8 a.m. at the church. All men are invited to come and fellowship. This is FREE.

Graybars volunteers: Extra donated cards and some postage stamps are still available on the nativity table if you’d like to send some words to the inmates you write. Help yourself, just remember to choose white envelopes and cards with no glitter. Only plain ink is acceptable. This is the loneliest time of the year for many of them, so let’s remember the guys and girls who would love to be with their families just as we do.

Happy Birthday to Pat Baker way down in Memphis, TN! Jo’lissa Williams, we send you birthday wishes all the way to Stockton, IL. We sure miss that little girl bouncing all over the church! Reagan Hippenhammer has a birthday next Sunday!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring some friends and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. Have a blessed week!

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December 5, 2021:

Hello, friends! Thanks for stopping by to catch up on Revolution’s news on this rainy Sunday afternoon!

Leslie and Phil Graniczny read scripture and lit the candle of PEACE on this second week of Advent.

Today’s songs were “Angels We Have Heard On High”, “O, Come All Ye Faithful”, “Redeemed”, “Lord, I Need You”, and “Peace, Peace, Wonderful Peace”. Pastor Billy’s sermon was called “Ghost of Christmas Past” with text from Col.1:15-20and John 1:1-3, 14. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

What an honor for Gene O’Brien to be installed as a deacon this morning! We thank him for showing humility and faithfulness to our church for years. He is known for making time to help members and is well loved here. All the pastors, elders and other deacons laid hands on him to give him a special blessing.

Thank you to those who shared food donations for our local food pantry today. We collect the first Sunday of each month, and only accept non-perishables.

It’s time to decorate our tacky holiday outfits for our annual UGLY SWEATER DAY next Sunday, December 12! Prizes will be awarded for the favorites! Get creative, get in the Christmas spirit, and have fun with us.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. In last week’s show he welcomed Wayne Smith, his former pastor. “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s featured song was “Jesus, Take the Wheel”.

Ladies Christmas event, “Oh, Holy Night”, is Friday, December 10, 6:30 pm at the church, and it is last call to sign up for a seat. Tickets are only $10 for a guest speaker, a good meal, and a time of holiday fellowship. Don’t procrastinate! Several of the tables are already full, so pay Heather Smith if you plan to join us.

Our Christmas Eve candlelight service is at 5 pm on Dec. 24th and should last near an hour. Let’s fill the church for this special evening of worship and the sights and sounds of this most holy of holidays. Come early if you want a seat up front.

Ladies Book Club New Year Kickoff is Wednesday, January 5, 7 pm at the church. This is fellowship and snacks with an introduction to the new book. Questions? Speak with Penny Knott.

Happy 77th Birthday to our southern gentleman greeter, Harvey Ferguson, Jr! Greeter Freda Wolfenden also has a birthday this week!

Congratulations to Kevin Ward and his sweetheart, Jessica Marie. He popped the question, and she said YES!

Standing ovation to Brian Fischer for being named 2021 Citizen of the Year by the New Lenox Chamber of Commerce! What a tremendous honor to be chosen! The world needs fewer Karens and more Brians!

Thank you to all who donated Christmas cards to the Graybars Project prison outreach. At this point we have received more than enough to meet our needs plus a few left over to share. We appreciate the volunteers who stayed busy writing encouragement during our holiday mailout this week! Mr. Cornelius, a generous soul who follows our services online, donated stamps, so if you need some for your pen-pal letters, it is fine to take some from the table. Extra donated cards are also available there if you’d like to send some to the inmates you write. Help yourself!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring some friends and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. Have a blessed week!

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November 28, 2021:

Hello, friends! We hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving holiday weekend with plenty of love, fellowship, and food. From the looks of so many in elastic waist pants, it appears most of us fared well in the food department!

Wasn’t the sanctuary gorgeous? We give a round of applause to Judy Fash for leading the volunteer team of men and women in decorating for the Christmas season!

We officially kicked off the Advent season as John and Ann Nordsell read scripture and lit the first candle of HOPE.

Today’s songs were “I Saw the Light”, “This Is Amazing Grace”, “Even So Come” and “Who You Say I Am” for Communion. Pastor Billy’s sermon was called “Upon This Rock" with text from Matthew 16:13-15. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.) Monthly prayer meeting was held after service for those who wished to stay.

What an honor for Larry DeSando to be installed as an Elder and Bob Hensle (also known as Autumn’s grandpa) to be installed as a deacon. We thank both of these men for showing humility and faithfulness to our church. All the pastors laid hands on them and also Larry’s wife, Eileen, to give them a special blessing.

Tinsel? Check! … Jingle bells? Check! …Candy canes? Check! Duct tape? .... Check! It must be time to decorate our tacky holiday outfits! Our annual UGLY SWEATER DAY is Sunday, December 12! Prizes will be awarded for the favorites!

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. In last week’s show Pastor welcomed Nathan Hansen from Bethel Church of Houston Texas . Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week it was cancelled as it fell on a holiday evening.

Ladies' Christmas event, “Oh, Holy Night”, is Friday, December 10, 6:30 pm at the church, and it is time to sign up to save your seat. Tickets are only $10 for a guest speaker, a good meal, and a time of holiday fellowship. Seating is limited, so don’t procrastinate! Several of the tables are filling up, so while there is time you can still choose your table hostess. Pay Heather Smith.

Our Christmas Eve candlelight service is at 5 pm on Dec. 24th and should last near an hour. Let’s fill the church for this special evening of worship and the sights and sounds of this high holiday.

Happy Belated Birthday to Diane Neakarse who celebrated on Thanksgiving day! If Ronnie Hajek had lived, he and Brenda would’ve celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary this weekend. We sure do miss Ron.

Get well wishes going out to Jan Golden who had her FIFTH shoulder surgery! We were excited to see a smiling Darla Carroll and Lisa Jasinski back after many weeks of illness.

Thank you to all who donated Christmas cards to the Graybars Project prison outreach. At this point we have received more than enough to meet our needs plus a few left over to share.

Some of the Fishes and Loaves cooks need to stop by our kitchen and claim their returned food containers and thank you notes. We appreciate your hospitality!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring some friends and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. Remember to bring some nonperishable items with you for our food pantry collection next Sunday. We collect the first weekend of each month. Have a blessed week!

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November 21, 2021:

Hello, friends!. We had so many new faces in the crowd for our Thanksgiving worship service this morning. We hope you were blessed and will join us again soon.

Today’s songs were “Big House”, “The Table”, “Revelation Song”, “Lord, You Are Good”, “Doxology”, and “Gobble Gobble”. Pastor Billy shared the pulpit with Matt Sharpe who preached a message titled “Your Place At the Table”. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Matt and Becky Sharpe and three of the four children drove from Michigan to be with us today. They helped launch this church when we were brand new and trying to get established years ago, and we grieved when they moved north! Last night our favorite hostess, Brenda Hajek, was gracious to host open house for those who wanted to visit with the family and munch snacks prior to this morning’s service.

Nearly 30 seniors enjoyed the “Let’s Give Thanks” traditional Thanksgiving turkey luncheon at the church Wednesday. We were happy to have several visitors join us. Pumpkin pies and spinach dip trays were raffled. Karleen Kendal from the Manhattan Food Pantry was guest speaker.

Time to drag out the trusty old glue gun and the glitter. Our annual UGLY SWEATER DAY is Sunday, December 12! Prizes will be awarded for the favorites!

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. In last week’s show Pastor included Matt Sharpe who shared about God’s provision. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week included his wife, Miriam and guest Sandra Rico who prayed live for people requesting prayer online.

Ladies Christmas event, “Oh, Holy Night”, is Friday, December 10, 6:30 pm at the church, and it is time to sign up to save your seat. Tickets are only $10 for a guest speaker, a good meal, and a time of holiday fellowship. Seating is limited, so don’t procrastinate! Buy your tickets from Heather Smith. You may sign up for whichever table hostess you choose while seats are available.

Our Christmas Eve candlelight service is at 5 pm on Dec. 24th. Let’s fill the church! It should last near an hour.

Happy Anniversary to Greg and Debbie Struck! Happy Birthday to Kevin Ward on Friday! Nick and Nate Radtke also will be eating birthday cake this week!

Get well wishes going out to Amy who is home recuperating from knee surgery.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring a friend and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. Remember to lay out your stretchy pants and roll your scale back 10 lbs. Wednesday night. HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYBODY! We are thankful for YOU!

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November 14, 2021:

Hello, again friends! Pull up a chair and let’s catch up on “What’s Happening” while the first flurries of the season swirl. Welcome!

Songs were “Oh, How I Love Jesus”, “Rattle”, “There Is A Fountain” and ”How Can I Keep From Singing”. Pastor Billy delivered a message about the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ cloak and the raising of the dead little girl with text from Luke 8:40-56. Laying on of hands and prayers for the sick among us were offered. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

You will NOT want to miss next Sunday. Our dear friends who labored alongside us when this church was being planted years ago will be back in town and preaching for us. Matt and Becky Sharpe and family will arrive in town Saturday for open house starting at 7 pm at Brenda Hajek’s Wood St. home in New Lenox if you wish to drop in and say hello.

Wed., Nov. 17th, the age 55+ group will host a “Let’s Give Thanks” traditional Thanksgiving turkey luncheon at the church. Kathy Felchlin can give you more details. If you are new to this church, we’d love to have you join us if you are a senior. It’s free, and it’s fun! If you forgot to sign up, please let Kathy know you are coming and what dish you will bring to share.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. Last week’s forum was an all-girl panel featuring Penny Knott, Jamie Sagerser, and Lisa Finley sharing their thoughts on Overcoming the Power over Darkness.

Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. Wednesday he focused on Veterans Day and featured the song “Surrounded”. To all the veterans and active military families from Revolution Church let us thank you for your service!

Ladies' Christmas event, “Oh, Holy Night”, is Friday, December 10, 6:00 pm at the church, and it is time to sign up to save your seat. Tickets are only $10 for a guest speaker, a good meal, and a time of holiday fellowship. A final planning meeting was held after service today.

Fishes and Loaves participants, please pick up your food containers from the kitchen ASAP. Thank you for being so generous and hospitable to the Smits while they were down for the count the past couple of weeks. They are so grateful for the hand up. Speak to the amazing Dawn Gonda if you would like to volunteer with this ministry of helps.

Friends, let’s send extra love out to the Brian and Kathleen Milligan family as her father passed peacefully in his sleep Thursday. A private service was held Saturday. Kathleen is our church office manager.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring a friend and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. We expect several visitors because of the Sharpes being in town, so try to come a bit early to get a seat.

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November 7, 2021:

Hello, friends! Pull up a chair and let’s catch up on “What’s Happening” here at your favorite church this first Sunday of November. This was time change weekend. Did you remember to roll back your alarm clock, or did you show up for service an hour early today?

Songs were “Greatness of Our God”, "Let The Praises Ring", “Forever”, and ”Here I Am to Worship”. Pastor Billy delivered a message about the woman with her alabaster jar with text from Luke 7:36-50. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Thank you to all who remembered to bring non-perishables to share with our local food pantry this morning. It is always pleasing to God when we serve our own community. We collect the first Sunday of each month here.

Wed., Nov. 17th, the age 55+ group will host a “Let’s Give Thanks” traditional Thanksgiving turkey luncheon with White Elephant gift exchange at the church. Sign up at the Connection Table to attend and to bring a dish to pass. Kathy Felchlin can give you more details. If you are new to this church, we’d love to have you join us if you are a senior. It’s free, and it’s fun!

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He often takes questions from his students and addresses a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use one. This week’s forum is an all-girl panel featuring Penny Knott, Jamie Sagerser, and Lisa Finley sharing their thoughts on Overcoming the Power over Darkness. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too.

Ladies' Christmas event is Friday, December 10, 6:00 pm at the church, so save the date. A planning meeting was held after service, so hope you stuck around a few minutes if you want to help.

Happy Birthday to Deacon Michelle Grifford on the 9th! Thank you for all you do for this church, Michelle!

Tammy Smit was released from the hospital this weekend and is recuperating from pneumonia at home now. She was permitted to briefly address the church via Face Time today. We hope to see her back on the piano bench soon, so pray for a speedy healing. We were happy to see Bruce back on camera today after his illness, too. Thank you to all who ran errands and fed him when he needed a hand. Pray for Diane McCullough, our video hostess, who has also been out with illness for a good while. She is missed on the screen!

Congrats to our drummer, Mikey Nordsell, and his sweetheart, Amanda. He popped the question, and she said YES! How wonderful!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring a friend and come join us at 10 am next Sunday.

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October 31, 2021:

Hello, friends, family, and visitors! Here’s the latest from Revolution Church here on Halloween 2021, or as some of the old timers call it “Reformation Sunday”:

We celebrated Communion together as we do the last week of each month. Songs were “Everlasting God”, “God of Wonders”, "Raise A Hallelujah" and ”The Blessing”. Pr. Julian Sandoval delivered the message for this Family Sunday called “I’m God’s Favorite”. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.) Pastor Billy will be back in the pulpit next week. Monthly prayer meeting was held after service for those who wished to participate.

Ladies Book Club meets Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 6 pm at the church for food and fellowship. Book discussion of “The Women of the Bible Speak” begins at 6:45. Speak to Penny Knott for details.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest was Michael Patton. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was “Lord, I Need You”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. This week’s guest will be our own beloved hostess, Brenda Hajek, sharing what she’s learned about hospitality. Don’t miss this one!

Ladies' Christmas event is Friday, December 10, 6:00 pm at the church, so save the date. A planning meeting will be held after service NEXT SUNDAY, so plan to stick around just a few minutes if you want to help.

Happy 11th Anniversary to Jason and Kristen Hippenhammer! (Let us know a week in advance if you have a special day you wish to see acknowledged here. We certainly don’t want anybody falling through the cracks.)

When you say your prayers, call out the Smits’ names. Bruce is sick at home, and Tammy is seriously ill in ICU at South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest with covid pneumonia. We have been missing “The Announcement Lady”, Diane McCullough and hope she will be feeling well enough to soon be back up on the screen. Prayers for all those in this congregation who are struggling with health issues. Let’s check on one another and do what we can to help during these rugged weeks while our brothers and sisters are down.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Bring a friend and come join us at 10 am next Sunday. Remember to roll that alarm clock BACK an hour Saturday night for Daylight Savings!

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October 24, 2021:

Hello, friends, family, and visitors! Thanks for stopping by to check out the newsletter on this rainy Sunday! Here’s the latest:

Songs were “Today Is The Day”, “Salvation Is Here”, “Come As You Are”, and Blessed Assurance”. (You can watch Pastor Billy’s message by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

After weeks of absence because of serious illness, we where overjoyed to see the Smiths return to church! Pastor Bob greeted the congregation and thanked all who helped and encouraged them during this rugged time.

Senior Hoedown chili luncheon was Wednesday with 22 attending. Thank you to all who set up, cleaned up, cooked, and helped in any way to make the day special. Wed., Nov. 17th, Seniors will host a “Let’s Give Thanks” traditional Thanksgiving luncheon at the church. Sign up at the Connection Table to attend and to bring a dish to pass. Kathy Felchlin can give you more details.

Ladies Book Club meets Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 6 pm at the church for food and fellowship. Book discussion of “The Women of the Bible Speak” begins at 6:45. Speak to Penny Knott for details.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guests were mother and son, Jamie Sagerser and Ryan Ferguson. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was “Come As You Are”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week’s guest was our own Gene O’Brien sharing about servant evangelism, specifically his work with Samaritan’s Purse.

Ladies' Christmas event is Friday, December 10, 6:00 pm at the church, so save the date. A planning meeting will be held after service the first Sunday in November.

Happy Birthday to Greg Struck on the 29th! Who else has a birthday or anniversary you'd like to announce here? Jot it down and give it to the piano player to be included here. We don't want anybody to be skipped.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. We’ll be here same time, same place next week. Bring a friend and come join us at 10 am.

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October 17, 2021:

Hello, friends, family, and visitors! Welcome to our newsletter! Here’s the latest:

Pastor gave a message about Rahab called “Rearview Mirror” with text from Joshua 2 and 6. Songs were “All The People Said Amen”, “Hello My Name Is”, “All My Hope Is In Jesus”, “I Am Who You Say I Am”, and “I Have Decided”. (You can watch the message by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Manhattan Township sent a letter of appreciation to the church for the recent huge donation of non-perishables for the community food pantry. Thank you!

Blaine & Cynthia Petersen and family had a sweet send-off from us last Sunday before they relocated Thursday. If you’d like to drop them a card, their new address is: 323 N. Main St., Stockton, IL 61085.

Senior HOEDOWN luncheon will be at the church at noon on October 20th. If you want to participate but forgot to sign up, contact Kathy Felchlin for attendance and for bringing a dish to share.

Ladies Book Club meets Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 6 pm at the church for food and fellowship. Book discussion begins at 6:45. Speak to Penny Knott for details.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest was NC Pastor Jordan Finley. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was “Who You Say I Am”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week’s guest was Emily Lippert who spoke about “DTR – Define the Relationship”. Next week we can look forward to hearing our own Gene O’Brien sharing about servant evangelism.

Ladies' Christmas event is Friday, December 10, 6:00 pm at the church, so save the date. More details will be given in coming weeks.

Happy Birthday to “Mr. Fix-It”, Charlie Printy on the 20th! Happy 61st birthday to Joe Jasinski!

Congratulations to Lisa Jasinski on landing an incredibly wonderful day-shift position as a Microbiology Lab Technician in Wood Dale!

What a joy to see Sara Moehle walk in with her smiling infant, Colton! Congratulations on your baby boy!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Visitors, thank you for coming! Worship begins promptly at 10 AM, so let’s the pack the house next week.

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October 10, 2021:

Hello, friends and family! Welcome to our newsletter! Here’s the latest:

Pastor Billy shared his pulpit with Pastor Miriam who gave a message called “Renew, Restore, Refresh” with text from Genesis 5:1-2. Songs were “Revival”, “No Sweeter Name”, “House of the Lord”, and “Jesus Paid It All”. (You can watch the message by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

At the end of the service we honored the Petersen family who will be relocating near Galena, IL on Thursday. Blaine, Cynthia, Calvin, Justice, and Jolissa were presented with gifts, cards and flowers, and were given a prayer blessing by the group to send them on their way to this next chapter in their lives. We shared in goodbye cupcakes and cookies after service and signed a take home banner. They have faithfully given years of service to us since the first day this church launched, and they will most certainly be missed. THANK YOU!

Donuts and Devotional was cancelled this weekend, and Foundations class on Sunday mornings is on hold until further notice while Pastor Bob is recuperating.

Senior HOEDOWN luncheon will be at the church at noon on October 20th. See Kathy Felchlin for details. Watch the Connection Table for sign-ups for attendance and for dishes to pass.

Ladies Book Club meets Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 6 pm at the church for food and fellowship. Book discussion begins at 6:45. Speak to Penny Knott for details.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest was Psychotherapist Matt Sharp who years ago helped launch Revolution as a church plant. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was “House of the Lord”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week’s guest was our own Pastor Billy. This week we can look forward to hearing from Emily, a former member of Julian’s youth group.

Ladies Christmas event is Friday, December 10, 6:30 pm at the church, so save the date. More details will be given in coming weeks.

Happy Birthday to Eileen DeSando! She is the talented writer who provides all the Daily Scripture online for us. If you want to subscribe, ask her to add you or mark your Connection Card to get your daily dose of encouragement. Debbie Dobias celebrates on the 15th! She has been so good to help church members in need of physical therapy over the years. Happy 29th Anniversary weekend to Phil and Michelle Grifford!

Best wishes and healing prayers for Bob Hensle who had cataract surgery a few days ago.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Visitors, thank you for coming! Do visit us again! Destiny and Diamond Torres, it was awesome seeing you girls walk into the building! Come early to enjoy coffee and make new friends next Sunday. Worship begins promptly at 10 AM.

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October 03, 2021:

Hello, friends and family! Welcome to “What’s Happening”! Pull up a chair and let’s catch up on the events at church this first Sunday in October!

Pastor Billy delivered to us a message about change with text from Ephesians 2:1-10 . Songs were “Hallelujah, Your Love Makes Me Sing”, “Unchanging”, “Amazing Grace-My Chains Are Gone”, “You Never Let Go”, and “At the Cross”. (You can watch the message by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

After service a meeting was held to gauge interest in an upcoming women’s Christmas event. Listen for more announcements as we get closer to December. If you’d like to help, mark your connection card or speak to Pastor Billy to see where you will be a good fit and the best helper.

Foundations class on Sunday mornings is on hold while Pastor Bob is recuperating.

Donuts and Devotional is Saturday, Oct. 8, 8 am at the church. This is free for men, but you must sign up at the Connection Table so the person who does the work will know how many pastries to purchase and how much coffee to brew. Bring a friend. See Pastor Billy for more details.

Ladies Book Club will meet October 6, at the church for food and fellowship at 6 pm and book discussion at 6:45 pm. Penny Knott can give you more details.

Senior HOEDOWN luncheon will be at the church at noon on October 20th. See Kathy Felchlin for details. Watch the Connection Table for sign-ups for attendance and for dishes to pass.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. This last week his returning guest was Michael Patton (this was his second time as a guest). He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest was. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was “Unchanging”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week’s guest was our dear friend, sweet Lakeda Vaughn who now lives in Texas! Coming up is our own Pastor Billy.

Happy Birthday to Heather Smith on the 4th! Lakeda Vaughn celebrates on the 7th way down in Texas! Wayne Mazur will be eating birthday cake on the 8th . We are so happy he found Revolution Church. If you haven’t met him yet, he is the smiley gray-haired guy who usually sits behind Brenda and Harvey’s row.

Best wishes and healing prayers for Bob Hensle who has cataract surgery this week.

Thank you to the gardeners who brought gourds and tomatoes for our sharing table. If you have extra, bring. If you need or want, take.

Our local food pantry shelves were almost bare, so humongous thanks to all who brought non-perishables to share. So much food was carried in we had to set up an extra table to receive it all!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Visitors, thank you for coming! Do visit us again! We hope to have a full house next week for 10:00 AM worship. Come early to enjoy coffee and make new friends.

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September 26, 2021:

Hello, friends and family! Welcome to “What’s Happening”! Pull up a chair and let’s catch up on the events at church:

Pastor Billy delivered to us a message called “We Are Family” with text from Mark 6:1-3. Songs were “Open Up the Heavens”, “Worthy of My Praise”, “Lead Me to the Cross”, “We Believe”, and “Family of God”. (You can watch the message by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.) We shared in Communion and then had monthly prayer meeting after service for those who wished to stay.

Route 66 Franklin Graham God Loves You Tour” was at the Speedway in Joliet last Sunday afternoon with Newsboys, Marcos Witt, and Dennis Agajanian leading us in worship! We were glad so many from our church attended. Gene O’Brien was a volunteer. Wonderful event! Sorry to those who missed much of the service because of the horrific traffic jam near the Speedway.

We are so sad to report that our beloved Bob Brown passed away last Sunday evening at the hospital. We pray special blessings on Rita and the family. His memorial service was Thursday evening at the church with a full house. Many thanks to each person who prepared food, helped with set up or clean up, or participated in any way to give him a beautiful send off. Burial will be at a later undetermined date. Memorial photo boards were set up for viewing today. Bob’s wheelchair was rolled on the stage and draped with his Cubs jersey and a cross necklace he had crafted.

Condolences to Jan Golden on the loss her aunt in Georgia. Our sympathies to Diamond and Destiny Torres on the loss of their great-grandma. Both women were buried on Thursday.

Condolences to the Rych family on the loss of their beloved dog, Scooby.

Thank you to those who provided meals for the Griffords through Fishes and Loaves Ministry. We were pleased to see Michelle back with us following her hip surgery. She came with crutches, but is healing, so that’s great news!

We have missed the Smiths for several weeks. Today Pastor Bob greeted us briefly via video. He is making progress, but still has a way to go before he will be able to come back to church. He says Heather is taking good care of him. Thank you to those who have stepped up to help them in any way. If you would like to provide a meal, please see Dawn Gonda or Penny Knott who will arrange that through our Fishes and Loaves.

Foundations class on Sunday mornings is on hold while Pastor Bob is recuperating.

Ladies Book Club will meet October 6, at the church for food and fellowship at 6 pm and book discussion at 6:45 pm. Penny Knott can give you more details.

Senior HOEDOWN luncheon will be at the church at noon on October 20th. See Kathy Felchlin for details. Watch the Connection Table for sign-ups for attendance and for dishes to pass.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest was Jamie Sagerser who escaped from a “Christian” cult. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week Pastor and author, Phil Fields shared about the Unperfect Marriage. Next week is our own Lakeda Vaughn who now lives in Texas!

Happy Birthday on Oct. 1 to Debbie Struck and Elizabeth Hippenhammer! Happy 15th Anniversary to Julian and Miriam!

Thank you to Diane Neakarse for bringing her homegrown ornamental gourds and to Penny Knott for the homemade mini-loaves of sweet breads for our sharing table. If you have extra, bring. If you need or want, take.

Speaking of food, Faith Cromwell addressed the church to tell us besides cereal and canned fruit, the local food pantry shelves are bare. She requested we buy a bit extra to contribute next Sunday. She asked we be mindful of buying nonperishables that when combined could make a meal such as cake mix AND frosting, or ingredients for chili (or whatever) rather than just shopping for random items. Please double bag to help prevent tears and spills during delivery.

If you want to help with the women’s Christmas event, stay after service for a quick meeting after church next Sunday.

That’s our news today from Revolution Church. Visitors, thank you for coming! Kevin and Sandy, it was super seeing you again! We hope everybody comes back next week for 10:00 AM worship.

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September 19, 2021:

Hello, friends! We appreciate you taking time to read “What’s Happening”! Let’s catch up on the events at church:

Pastor Billy delivered to us a message called “Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weenie”. Text was from Matthew 17:20. Songs were “I Saw the Light”, “He Reigns”, “Heart of Worship”, “Rattle”, and “Because He Lives”.

Billy Graham Association presents the “Route 66 Franklin Graham God Loves You Tour” at the Speedway in Joliet Sept. 19th! Newsboys, Marcos Witt, and Dennis Agajanian will be leading us in worship! We will not be in bleachers, so take your own chair or blanket for sitting in the field. Refreshments are permitted to be carried inside. FREE!

“Hello My Name Is” brunch for women was Saturday. Thanks to Eileen DeSando for hosting, and to Rita Brown for being the guest speaker!

Ladies Book Club will meet October 6, at the church for food and fellowship at 6 pm and book discussion at 6:45 pm. Penny Knott can give you more details.

Senior luau luncheon was Wednesday at the church. Thank you to all who cooked the food and did the work. Senior hoedown luncheon will be at the church at noon on October 20th. See Kathy Felchlin for details. Watch the Connection Table for sign ups.

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’s special guest is Jamie Sagerser who escaped from a “Christian” cult. They will be taking live questions. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too. This week’s song was Elevation Worship’s “Rattle”.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week Jeff Thomas shared about “Mercy”.

Sending get well wishes to Bob Brown who is still in Silver Cross Hospital. Send a card if you want to be an encourager. He is not up to phone calls at this time.

Special prayers for the Smiths as Pastor Bob is now recuperating at HOME! Yay for improvements! We sure do miss Heather and him.

Sending prayers and get well wishes to Jan Golden who is home with a broken wrist. We miss you, Jan!

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Visitors, thank you for coming! We hope to see everybody back next week for 10:00 AM worship! See you at Franklin Graham’s crusade in a bit!

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September 12, 2021:

Hello, friends! We appreciate you taking time to read “What’s Happening”! Let’s catch up on the events at church:

Pastor Billy delivered to us a message called “Seeds and Weeds”. Text was from Matthew 13:10-13, 24-29, and 36-43. Songs were “Let God Arise”, “Because He Lives”, “Redeemed”, “Living Hope”, and “Seek Ye First”. By clicking WATCH on our homepage, you can view the preaching by Sunday evening.

The sharing table provided free freshly picked orchard apples compliments of the Knotts today. Thank you for your generosity! Remember, if you have extra produce, bring it. If you need it, take it.

Samantha Jasinski was acknowledged today as she is returning to college in England this week after spending her summer vacation with her family in Lisle. We have been so happy to see her again after such a long absence because of covid travel restrictions.

Manhattan’s Labor Day Parade was a lot of fun! Thanks to Penny and Bruce for driving, and we appreciate those who did puppets and candy throwing. Thanks to all who donated candy!

Billy Graham Association presents the “Route 66 Franklin Graham God Loves You Tour” at the Speedway in Joliet Sept. 19th! Invitation cards are found at the Connection Table. Please take some to pass out to others! This is the first time this has come to Chicago area since 1972 and is the first stop on the route to end at the California coast. Newsboys, Marcos Witt, and Dennis Agajanian will be leading us in worship! FREE! More yard signs were passed out today to help advertise. We will not be in bleachers, so take your own chair for sitting in the field.

“Hello My Name Is” brunch for women is Saturday, September 18th at Eileen DeSando’s Frankfort home. There is a sign-up sheet for attendance and for bringing a dish to pass. See Penny for more info.

Dig out your Hawaiian shirts and leis for the senior luau luncheon Wednesday, September 15, at noon at the church. If you haven’t signed up yet, you must let Kathy Felchlin know you are coming and what food you are bringing to share!

Pastor Billy’s online study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. He takes questions from his students and answers a few each week. Email him your questions, and perhaps he will use yours. This week’ special guest was Brian Pruitt who spoke about Generational Curses. Pastor’s “Worship Wednesday” videos are live at noon on Facebook, too.

Pastor Julian’s Thursday 6:30 pm online Bible study is on his Face Book page. “Amongst Friends” features a different topic each week with Julian and various friends. Last week 16 year-old Michael Borosak shared about “Heeding the Call”. Next up is Pastor Jeff speaking about mercy.

Happy Belated Birthdays to Faith Cromwell and Linda DeLost! We love and appreciate you two ladies! Congrats to Debbie Struck as she starts her new job as Admissions Rep/Student Advisor/Community Outreach Coordinator with John Amico School of Hair Design.

Sending get well wishes to Bob Brown who is in Silver Cross Hospital this week. It was so good to finally see him back in church with us a couple of weeks ago, and we hope to see him again soon. Give him a quick call or send a card if you want to be an encourager.

Michelle Grifford is recuperating at home from Thursday’s hip surgery. Thank you to those who are providing meals to make life a bit easier during her down time. If you’d like to cook, you’re welcome to hop on this meal train.

Special prayers to the Smiths as Pastor Bob is in Silver Cross Hospital battling serious sickness. Sorry, but no visitors at this time for him. Until further notice his Foundations classes are on hold. Donuts and Devotional was also cancelled for Saturday.

It was wonderful to see Heather Smith and the entire Graniczny crew back with us again after illnesses!

We ask AGAIN for volunteers to train to sit at the tech table and flash the lyrics on the wall during the music portion of the service. We have an immediate need, and this is a way you can serve your church.

That’s the news today from Revolution Church. Thanks for reading! Visitors, thank you for coming! We hope to see everybody back next week for 10:00 AM worship!

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