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March 10, 2024

 

 

Welcome back, friends!  We are happy you joined us on this spring-like Sunday!

Daylight Savings kicked in this morning, and we lost an hour’s sleep last night. Thanks to all who rolled out of bed and made it to worship.

Our songs today were “Sweet By and By”, ”Battle Belongs”, “Always”, and  “See A Victory/Surrounded”. The message, “Contending For the Faith” was delivered by Pastor Bob Smith using text from Jude 1-4.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Ministry Highlights featured Larry Klick and Bruce Smit.  Larry is excellent to set up and clean up the hospitality coffee table and help in the kid’s ministry.  Bruce plays bass part time in the band and has manned the camera  for many years so we have online sermons. Thank you for your service, guys!

Parents’ Afternoon Out is happening TODAY, 11:30-3-30 PM at the church.   This is Easter-themed and includes lunch and games.  Thanks to all who organized and served at this event! There was a room full of kids participating.  We hope the parents are enjoying their alone time.

Save the date for Passover Seder on Sunday, April 28th, 5 pm at the church.  Seating is very limited and is open for church members first.  Sign up began two weeks ago, and most of the seats are already filled.  When the last reservation is gone on the list there will be no more added, so sign up ASAP if you want to be included. 

Stone Soup Sunday potluck lunch is on St. Patrick’s Day after service.   Sign up to reserve a seat, and indicate what you will contribute to the meal. If we all bring a little, nobody has to bring a lot.  Men, we would appreciate help setting up and tearing down the tables if you can spare a few minutes.

 

Folks, if you are not already serving here, we need YOU!  We are looking for helpers in the kid’s ministry, hospitality (coffee), and Fishes and Loaves (cooking) departments.  None of these require much of your time. Let’s give the members who are carrying these responsibilities regularly a breather. Mark your connection card if you are willing to learn.  Thanks so much!

 

Small group Bible Study led by Pastor Billy meets Thursday, 6:30 pm at the Hajek home in New Lenox. Come for snacks and fellowship.

 

Seniors St. Patrick’s Day luncheon is Wed, March 20th, noon at the church.  This is always decorated and a lot of fun, so sign up at the Connection Table if you are ages 55+.

 Good Friday Service is Friday, March 29th at 7 pm. Mark your calendars now and invite adults.  This is a powerful service, and not for the very young.

 Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 12.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Arguments” and featured the songs Newsboys/Love One Another, and Danny Gokey/We All Need Jesus.

Pastor Billy will be offering Sunday evening Seminary and Psychology classes beginning April 7th at 6:30 pm.  Sign up at the Connection Table.

Happy Birthday this week to Linda Lee, Levi Hippenhammer, Dave Gross, Bob Hensle, and Cornell Papag who watches us online! If you wish to have your birthday or anniversary listed here, give your information to the piano player a week in advance.

After a hospitalization and then followed by a car accident, we were pleased to see Carlos Lara back in service with us!   Please check on members who are missing.  We still have several sick among us: Gino, Kay, Freda, Charlie… 

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you back here next week at 10:00 a.m. Since next Sunday is St. Patrick’s Day, feel free to wear green!

 

 

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March 03, 2024

 

 

Welcome back, friends!  We are happy you joined us  on this spring-like Sunday!

Our songs today were “Trading My Sorrows”, ”Victory In Jesus”, “Forever”,  “Goodness of God”, “It Is Well”, and “I Have Decided”. The message, “God? Or gods?” was delivered by Pastor Billy using text from John 10:22-24.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

There was a full table of food donated to restock the community food pantry this morning.  Thank you kindly for sharing!

Parents’ Afternoon Out is March 10, 11:30-3-30 PM at the church.   This will be Easter-themed and includes lunch. Contact the Meskins if you have not yet included your youngsters!

“23” young adult group meets at the Knotts’ home in Manhattan this Wednesday at 6:30 pm.

Donuts and Devotional for men is free and takes place Saturday, 8 am at church this Saturday.  Ladies will meet for prayer at Penny Knott’s home at the same time.

Seniors St. Patrick’s Day luncheon is Wed, March 20th, noon at the church.  This is always a lot of fun, so sign up at the Connection Table if you are ages 55+.

Stone Soup Sunday potluck lunch is on St. Patrick’s Day after service.   Sign up to reserve a seat, and indicate what you will contribute to the meal.

Good Friday Service is Friday, March 29th at 7 pm. Mark your calendars now and invite adults.  This is a powerful service, and not for the very young.

Save the date for Passover Seder on Sunday, April 28th, 5 pm at the church.  Seating is very limited and is open for church members first.  Sign up began today, and tables are all filling up.  When the last seat is gone on the list there will be no more, so sign up quickly if you are coming. 

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 10.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Unfairness” and featured the songs We the Kingdom/Jesus Does and Phillippa Hanna/You’re Still God.

Pastor Billy will be offering Sunday evening Seminary and Psychology classes beginning April 7th at 6:30 pm.  Sign ups began today.

Happy Birthday to Greg Fash on the 6! Tammy Smit celebrates on the 9th. Mildred Ferguson would’ve turned 101 this week.  We sure do miss her!  

Check out the St. Patrick’s Day scripture board on the Graybars Project table.  It is only up for one more week.  While you are there, how about putting a word of encouragement on the inmate birthday cards there?

 

Carlos Lara is now home from the hospital!  Get well soon, friend!

 

Diana Lopez begins CNA training, and will not be in services for many weeks during her schooling.  We had special prayer over her and believe she will be fantastic working with patients. 

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378. 

Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you back here next week at 10:00 a.m.

 

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February 25, 2024

 

 

Welcome back, friends!  We are happy you joined us for Communion Sunday and monthly prayer meeting after service.

Our songs today were “Soul on Fire”, ”Your Grace Is Enough”, “Just As I Am”,  “Revelation Song” and “Create In Me a Clean Heart”.  The message, “Thorn In the Flesh” was delivered by Pastor Billy using text from 2 Corinthians 12:1-10.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Parents’ Afternoon Out is March 10, 11:30-3-30 PM at the church.   Deadline to RSVP to the Meskins is TODAY, February 25th.  This will be Easter-themed and includes lunch.

 

Food Pantry collection is next Sunday. Please double bag your nonperishables and leave at the tables in the back of the church. 

Seniors St. Patrick’s Day luncheon is Wed, March 20th, noon at the church.  This is always a lot of fun, so sign up at the Connection Table if you are ages 55+.

Stone Soup Sunday potluck lunch is on St. Patrick’s Day after service.   Sign up to reserve a seat, and indicate what you will contribute to the meal.

Good Friday Service is Friday, March 29th.  Mark your calendars now and invite adults.  This is a powerful service, and not for the very young.

Save the date for Passover Seder on Sunday, April 28th, 5 pm at the church.  Seating is very limited, so when sign up sheets are provided, sign up quickly.

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 9.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Birds” and featured the songs Look At the Birds/ Project of Love, and If I Was a Bird/Mission House & Dee Wilson.

Pastor Billy will be offering Sunday evening Seminary and Psychology classes beginning April 7th.   More details next week.

Happy Birthday today to Connie Schuler!  Sweet little Evelyn Radtke celebrates on March 3!  Remember, there are numerous inmate birthday cards on the baptistry just waiting for you to pen an uplifting word on them.  These change frequently, so check back often.

Special prayers for several who are ill today: Brenda, Darla, Freda, Charlie, Carlos, and Bob H.   Condolences to Heidi Termuende on the loss of her father.  His funeral was yesterday. 

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you back here next week at 10:00 a.m.

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February 18, 2024

 

 

Welcome back, friends!

Our songs today at Revolution Church were “No Sweeter Name”, ”Unchanging”, “You Are Worthy of My Praise/Let It Rise”, “There Was Jesus”, and “Glory In the Highest”. The message was delivered by Pastor Billy using text from Philippians 2:1-11.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Stone Soup Sunday potluck followed the service with a large crowd staying to eat together.  Thank you to the setup/tear down/clean up crews and to all the folks who brought food to share. If you bring enough for your family plus a visitor, we will always have plenty.

If you are 55+ you are invited to the Senior Ministry’s annual Valentine Lunch on February 21st.  This is always fun and beautifully decorated, so watch the Connection Table for sign-up sheets. There is never such a thing as too much love.

Parents’ Afternoon Out is March 10, 11:30-3-30 PM at the church.   Deadline to RSVP to the Meskins is NEXT SUNDAY,  February 25th.  This will be Easter-themed and includes lunch.

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 8.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Love” and featured the songs Child of Love/We The Kingdom, and Love God Love People/Danny Gokey.

Small group meets at the Hajek home in New Lenox this Thursday at 6:30 pm for Bible study and snacks.  Everybody is welcome!

Friday, February 23, “23” young adult small group meets at the Knotts’ home in Manhattan for game night and pizza! Check it out!

 

Happy Birthday today to Beth Printy!  Lisa Jasinski has a birthday on the 24th, and Connie Schuler celebrates on the 25th! Speaking of birthdays, there are numerous inmate birthday cards on the baptistry just waiting for you to pen an uplifting word on them.  These change frequently, so check back often.

If you would enjoy writing encouraging sentiments inside Easter cards for our inmates, speak to Tammy Smit and receive a stack in time for the Graybars Project holiday mailout that begins next Sunday.

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

 

Join us next Sunday at 10 a.m. for worship and monthly prayer meeting after service.  Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you back here next week

 

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February 11, 2024

 

Welcome back, friends! Today is Super Bowl Sunday, and we are glad you left your TV and your recliner to join us for worship before the festivities start!

Our songs today were “Blessed Be the Name”, ”Happy Song”, “Love Is Here”, “One Thing Remains”, and “Achey Breaky Heart”, just for some Valentine fun. The message, ”He Never Fails”, the story of the Good Samaritan, was delivered by Pastor Billy.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Thank you to the mystery person who left the scripture cross bookmarks on the Connection Table! Please take one home and enjoy.

Thank you for your kind and generous donations for the community food pantry! We do ask that in future collections we only bring food and paper products and refrain from household items as they are difficult to transport and to rehome.

Stone Soup Sunday is next week after preaching, and we need to know how many tables to prepare and to be certain we will have ample food.  Bring a dish to share with friends. Gentlemen, we need muscles to help set up tables immediately after service.  

If you are 55+ you are invited to the Senior Ministry’s annual Valentine Lunch on February 21st.  This is always fun and beautifully decorated, so watch the Connection Table for sign-up sheets. There is no such thing as too much love.

Parents’ Afternoon Out is March 10, 11:30-3:30 PM at the church.   Deadline to RSVP to the Meskins is February 25th.  This will be Easter-themed and includes lunch. 

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 7.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Lost” and featured the songs Lose My Soul/Tobey Mac with Terrian, and When I Was Lost/Grace Baptist Church.

Happy Birthday on Saturday to Pat Baker all the way down in Memphis, TN!

Speaking of birthdays, there are numerous inmate birthday cards on the baptistry  just waiting for you to pen an encouraging word on them.  These change frequently, so check back often.

Get well soon to Ann Nordsell who had knee surgery this week. We were pleasantly surprised to see her walk into the church today! We have several sick and absent, so please be mindful to check on the members whose seats were empty this morning. Special healing prayers going up for Freda Wolfenden.

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Join us next Sunday at 10 a.m. for a hot beverage and worship. Remember that Wednesday, February 14th is Valentine's Day, so be intentional about speaking words of affirmation to those around you, and shower the people you love with love. Have a blessed week!

 

 

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February 4, 2024

 

Welcome back, family and friends! The sanctuary looked so pretty with post-Christmas décor making its appearance at the cross.  Spring is not far away!

Our songs today were “Power In the Blood”, ”You Are So Good To Me”, “Turn Your Eyes”, “I Stand Amazed”, and “Battle Belongs”. The message, ”No One Can Find It For You”, was delivered by Elder Larry DeSando with text from 2 Chronicles 7:4.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Today was the annual “state of the union” business meeting exclusively for members. We discussed budget and vision for 2024.  Thank you for attending.

Welcome to Louise Rose, our newest Revolution Church member!

Thank you for your kind and generous donations for the community food pantry!

Last call to pick up your Giving Statement for 2023 from the Connection Table! You will need this document for your taxes. 

23, a small group for young adults, meets at the Knott home in Manhattan this Wednesday at 6:30 pm.

Foundations Class (basic Christians doctrines) meets Sundays , 9 am, in the church kitchen.   The Smiths can give you more details.  Free.

Small group meets at Brenda Hajek’s home in New Lenox 6:30 pm this Thursday.  Everybody is welcome, and this is free.

Donuts and Devotional for men meets at the church Saturday, 8 a.m.  Women meet for prayer at Penny Knott’s home at the same time.  Both events are free.  Please sign up.

If you are 55+ you are invited to the Senior Ministry’s annual Valentine Lunch on February 21st.  Watch the Connection Table for sign-up sheets. 

Sign up now for RSVP and what food you are contributing for Stone Soup Sunday.  We need to know how many tables to prepare and to be certain we will have ample food.

Parents’ Afternoon Out  is March 10, 11:30-3:30 p.m. at the church.   Deadline to RSVP to the Meskins is February 25th.  This will be Easter-themed and includes lunch.

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 6.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Red” and featured At the Cross (Love Ran Red)/Chris Tomlin and Red Letters/David Crowder.

Freda Wolfenden was hospitalized and released again this past week.  Prayers for her speedy recovery.  No visits, calls, or texts yet, please.  Fishes and Loaves has been preparing meals to help her over the hump.  Speak with Dawn Gonda if you would like to contribute a supper.

Happy Birthday to Jo Ann Preston on the 9th!  Ron Schmidt celebrates on the 10th!

Speaking of birthdays, there are numerous inmate birthday cards on the baptistry just waiting for you to pen an encouraging word on them.  These change frequently, so check back often.

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378. Also, notify Larry if you have modifications to make to your contact information in the church directory. New people are invited to be included in this new edition.

Join us next Sunday at 10 a.m. for a hot beverage and worship. Thank you, and have a blessed week!

 

 

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January 28, 2024

 

 

Welcome back, family and friends! It was good to see so many at church for Communion Sunday.

Our songs today were “Unclouded Day”, ”Love Ran Red”, “Here I Am To Worship”, “This Is Our God”, “Hello My Name Is” and “Spirit of the Living God”. The message, ”What Are You Waiting For”, was delivered by Pastor Billy with text from Acts 8:26-40.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

New Membership Class and pizza lunch was today after church. We will announce and welcome new members next Sunday.

The Tax Man cometh!  Remember to pick up your Giving Statement for 2023 from the Connection Table ASAP. This is the fourth week of availability for you.

Next week we collect nonperishables for the community food pantry.  Please remember to double bag to prevent rips and spills.

If you are 55+ you are invited to the Senior Ministry’s annual Valentine Lunch on February 21st.  Watch the Connection Table for sign-up sheets.

Sign up now for RSVP and what food you are contributing for Stone Soup Sunday.  We need to know how many tables to prepare. 

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 5.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “White As Snow” and featured O The Blood-White As Snow/ Victory Worship, and I’ve Been Washed Clean/Greater Vision 

Claps and cheers for Judy Christensen who is working hard to quit smoking.  She is on week FOUR!  You go, girl!

So pleased to see John Baron and Charlie Printy back with us after weeks of illness!   Freda Wolfenden is back in Silver Cross Hospital and has been moved from ICU to a regular room.  Prayers for her speedy recovery.  No visits, calls, or texts is requested.  

Happy Birthday on January 31st to Gabriel Babarinde all the way in Nigeria! 

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Join us next Sunday at 10 a.m. for a hot beverage and worship. Members, plan to stay for our annual business meeting starting soon after dismissal next week.   Thank you, and have a super week!

 

 

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January 21, 2024

 

Welcome back, family and friends! With below zero temps earlier, it felt like we’ve been passengers on the Polar Express this week!  Thanks for coming to worship when it would’ve been more comfortable to stay home in your flannel PJs.

Our songs today were “You Are Holy (Prince Of Peace)”, ”Open Up the Heavens”, “Way Maker”, and “Raise A Hallelujah”.  The message, ”Lazarus”, was delivered by Pastor Billy with text from John 11.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Holiday decoration removal crew spent a lot of time working at the church yesterday.  Thanks to each one who devoted a portion of their Saturday to take down the tree and décor.  It was certainly beautiful while it lasted.

The Tax Man cometh!  Remember to pick up your Giving Statement for 2023 from the Connection Table ASAP.

Senior Ministry sure had a good meal and a fun time at the annual White Elephant gift exchange.  If you are 55+ you are invited to the annual Valentine Lunch on February 21st.  Watch the Connection Table for sign-up sheets.

New Membership Class is after service NEXT SUNDAY, January 28.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you want to attend.  Joining the church afterwards is not mandatory. Pizza will be served. Let Pastor know in advance if you need child care.

Note the new dates for “23” young adult group.  They are now meeting the first Wednesday and the third Friday of each month.  There is more info at the Connection Table 

Small group meets at Brenda Hajek’s New Lenox home this Thursday at 6:30 pm.  Everybody is welcome.  Come for study and snacks!

Pastor Billy’s Exodus Bible study is Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page. We are in Chapter 4.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic was “Blood Donor” and featured Prestonwood Baptist Church Choir/This Blood and Andy Cherry/Nothing But the Blood.

Mark your calendar for the Yearly Church Business Meeting after service on February 4th.  This is for members ONLY.

Special healing prayers for Freda Wolfenden who spent the week in the hospital.  She is home now trying to rest.  We love you, Freda! Fishes and Loaves will be providing meals for a few days, so speak with Dawn Gonda if you would like to share some lovin’ from the oven.

Happy Birthday to Joe Meskin on the 25th! Erin Van Kuiken celebrates on the 26th!

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

We have several elderly and ill members, so please look after each other best you can during this rough season. Please help with errands or a ride to church to keep them safe during this spell of treacherous weather. See you next week for Communion Sunday!

 

 

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January 14, 2024

 

Welcome back, church family and visitors!

My goodness, this is certainly a weekend for harsh winter storms and ridiculously low temps.  Today was three degrees!  Thanks to all who braved the frigid elements to be at church.  Huge thanks to Pastor Billy for shoveling and salting in the miserable cold so we could enter and exit safely. Three cheers for John Chamblee who swooped in and saved the day with his plow in our parking lot!

Our songs today were “This Is Amazing Grace”, ”Grace Greater Than All Our Sin”, “Come Now Is the Time To Worship”, “Speak To the Mountains”, and “Lord Prepare Me”.  The message, ”Oppression”, was delivered by Pastor Billy with text from Mark 9:14-29.  (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

Stone Soup potluck was today.  Thanks to all our cooks and our set-up/tear down crews.  We do this monthly.  Bring something to share and join us again in February.

Because of inclement weather both men and women’s prayer groups were cancelled yesterday.  Holiday decoration removal was also postponed until Saturday, January 20, 10 am.  Please help if you are able.

January Senior Lunch and White Elephant is Wed, January 17th at noon at the church.  Sign up at the Connection Table to save your seat.  Kathy Felchlin can answer any questions about this event.

Young adult “23” group meets at the Knotts’ home this Wednesday at 6:30 pm for devotion, games, and a Nacho Bar!  Free, but let your hosts know you are coming.

Have you been baptized by immersion?  We will have water baptisms during service NEXT SUNDAY.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you have questions or would like to participate. Bring your towel, hairdryer, and a change of clothes.

New Membership Class is after service January 28.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you want to attend.  Joining the church afterwards is not mandatory. Pizza will be served. Let Pastor know in advance if you need child care.

Pastor Billy continues the new online Exodus Bible study Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page with Chapter 3.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic “Spreading Like A Virus” featured Phil Wickham/The Jesus Way, and Casting Crowns/Healer.

Mark your calendar for the Yearly Church Business Meeting after service on February 4th.  This is for members ONLY.

Greg and Judy brought back a large box of multiple food containers from Fishes and Loaves meals, so please claim yours at Kathleen’s desk.

If you are disabled and need a scooter for increased mobility, see Richard and Peggy Rock ASAP.  They would like to gift you a lovely red scooter that sold for $1600 new.  Richard can even deliver locally if you can load and unload it.  How generous!

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378. 

Happy Birthday to Luis Lopez on the 15th! Feliz Cumpleanos!

We have several elderly and ill members, so look after each other best you can during this rough season. Please help with errands, snow shoveling, or a ride to church to help keep them safe as needs arise.  Thanks for all you do! See you next week!

 

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January 7, 2024

 

 

Welcome back on this snowy weekend,  family and friends! 

Our songs today were “Love the Lord”, ”I’ll Fly Away”, “Voice of Truth”, and “See A Victory/Surrounded”. The message, ”SOZO”, was delivered by Pastor Billy. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH. 

Your bulletin contained an insert listing church ministry opportunities and contact info for various church leaders of those groups listed.  Where do you fit?  There’s always room for one more!

Thank you for your generosity to the Manhattan Food Pantry this morning.  The collection table was FULL!

Stone Soup potluck is next Sunday. If you neglected to RSVP and indicate what you are bringing, let Penny know ASAP so we can have enough and have a balanced meal.  We also need to know how many tables to set up after service.

January 13th women meet at the Knott home for prayer at 8 am.  Men meet that morning at the same time at church for Donuts and Devotional.  When each of these are done, everybody is invited to the church to take down the holiday decorations.  The more folks helping, the earlier we finish, so show up if able. 

January Senior Lunch and White Elephant is Wed, January 17th at noon at the church.  Sign up at the Connection Table to save your seat.  Kathy Felchlin can answer any questions about this event.

Have you been baptized by immersion?  We will have water baptisms during service January 21.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you have questions or would like to participate.

New Membership Class is after service January 28.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you want to attend.  Joining the church afterwards is not mandatory. Pizza will be served.

Small Group meets at the Hajek home Thursday at 6:30 pm.  Come and enjoying Bible study and plentiful snacks with friends.

Pastor Billy continues the new online Exodus Bible study Tuesday at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page with Chapter 2.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there. 

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic “New Year’s Resolutions” featured Zach Williams & Walker Hayes/Jesus Fault, and Big Daddy Weave/All Things New.

Check the Connection Table to sign up for “23” young adult group, Foundations, Women In the Word, and Daily Scriptures.

Mark your calendar for the Yearly Church Business Meeting after service on February 4th.  This is for members ONLY.

Judy Fash was back in church today after her hip surgery.  YAY! Greg brought back a large box of multiple food containers from Fishes and Loaves meals, so please claim yours soon.

Prayers for Mildred Juden who is hospitalized in TN with COPD exacerbation and struggling to breathe.  We wish she lived closer to we could visit.

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Thank you for all you do to support this church! You are appreciated and loved even though we might not say it enough. See you next week!

 

 

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December 31, 2023

 

 

Welcome back, church family and visitors!  Thank you to all who braved the snow showers and came out for New Year’s Eve worship! Goodbye, 2023! 2024, please be kind to us. 

Our songs today were “Everlasting God”, ”Trading My Sorrows”, “Because He Lives”, “River of Life”, and “Shout To the Lord”. The message, ”Enjoying God”, was delivered by Pastor Bob Smith. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.) Monthly prayer meeting was held for those who wanted to stay after church. 

 

Thank you to all the kind folks who participated in the Thanksgiving/Christmas card mailout to our inmates in the Graybars Project Prison Outreach group.  We are already getting feedback, and it meant a lot to the men to be remembered during the holidays. Several have sent cards to the church which can be read at the back table.   Some of these prisoners are relatives of church members here.

 

Next Sunday is food pantry collection of nonperishables.  Please double bag to prevent accidental rips and spills.

January Senior Lunch and White Elephant is Wed, January 17th at noon at the church.  Sign up at the Connection Table to save your seat.  Kathy Felchlin can answer any questions about this event.

Have you been baptized by immersion?  We will have water baptisms during service January 21.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you have questions or would like to participate.

New Membership Class is after service January 28.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you want to attend.  Joining the church afterwards is not mandatory.

Pastor Billy kicks off the online Exodus Bible study Tuesday, January 2 at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page with Chapter 1.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic “No Returns” featured Gifts From God / Chris Tomlin & Chris Lane, and If I Got Jesus / Ben Fuller.

Check the Connection Table to sign up for “23” young adult group, Foundations class, Ladies Journaling,  Daily Scriptures, and Stone Soup Sunday potluck.

Happy Birthday to Jason Hippenhammer and his beard on the 6th!

Judy Fash was discharged from the hospital and will be able to ring in the New Year from home!  YAY! If you would like to provide a meal for Greg and her, please contact Dawn Gonda with Fishes and Loaves and sign up to help.

If you need prayer, call or text Elder Larry DeSando 24/7 at 815-351-8378.

Thank you for all you do to support this church with your year end gifts! We hope to see you all back next Sunday at 10 a.m.   May 2024 bring you joy, peace, and happiness! We’ll see you next year!

 

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December 24, 2023

 

 

Welcome back, church family and visitors!  Thank you for driving through drizzle and fog to join us for our Candlelight Christmas Eve Worship and Communion service.

Our songs today were “Hark the Herald”, ”Angels We Have Heard On High”, “Away In A Manger (Forever Amen)”, “Silent Night”, “O Holy Night”, and “Carol of the Bells”. Special thanks to Mikey Nordsell for drumming with the band! The message, ”Christmas Eve 2023” was delivered by Pastor Billy using text from Luke 2. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

On this fourth Sunday of Advent Linda DeLost, Gene O’Brien and Jessica Holub lit the Candle of Love and the Christ Candle and read the scriptures for this Christmas holy season. 

Have you been baptized by immersion?  We will have water baptisms during service January 21.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you have questions or would like to participate.

New Membership Class is after service January 26.  Sign up at the Connection Table if you want to attend.  Joining the church afterwards is not mandatory. 

Pastor Billy has completed the online Genesis Bible study and will take a holiday break on December 26th. Class will resume Tuesday, January 2 at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page with a study of Exodus.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there.

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic “Joy” featured Chris Tomlin/Joy Unspeakable Joy and Micah Tyler/Feels Like Joy. 

There are numerous birthday cards for our inmates waiting to be signed on the Graybars table.  Please take a minute and jot a line of encouragement to these men and women.

Happy Birthday to Brenda Hajek AND Jesus on the 25th!

Freda Wolfenden is home from the hospital, so that is great news here in time for Christmas! Judy Fash had hip surgery and has returned to Silver Cross Hospital where she is in ICU. We pray she will get home in time to enjoy the holidays.

Thank you for all you do to support this church with your year end gifts! We hope to see you all back next Sunday at 10 a.m. to celebrate New Year’s Eve with us! May you have peace with God, peace with others, and peace in your own heart.  Have a blessed Christmas.

 

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December 17, 2023

 

Welcome back, church family and visitors!  We appreciate those who braved the cold rain to come worship.

Our songs today were “Joyful, Joyful”, ”Feliz Navidad”, “Joy In the House of the Lord”, “Joy To the World”, and  “Famous One”.  Special thanks to Carlos Lara for trumpeting with the band! The message,”But You, O Bethlehem” was delivered by Pastor Billy using text from Micah 5:2-5. (You can watch this and past messages by going to the home page and clicking WATCH.)

On this third Sunday of Advent Amos Albert, Alex Lara, and Emma and Jacob Cowger lit the white Candle of Joy and read the scriptures for this Christmas holy season.

Today was Stone Soup Sunday with an incredible potluck lunch after service.  Thanks to all who cooked and brought plenty to share.  Thanks to the Knotts for the yummy fried chicken. Thank you to all who set up and cleaned up. 

Ugly Sweater contest followed our meal.  We had lots of tackiness and gaudiness, but judges chose the following winners: Levi Hippenhammer – child’s division, The Granicznys – Cutest Couple, and Betsy Burnett—best adult costume with that ridiculous light up tree hat perched on top of her head.  They all won gift cards to Chick-Fil-A. Congrats!

Thank you to Kevin Giera a.k.a. “Santa Claus” for being available for family photos and memory making at the luncheon! You can see a lot of photos on Face Book.

Invite your family and friends to our Sunday morning Christmas Eve Service.  There is no PM service this year, but we will still have candlelight, the holiday message, and beautiful seasonal music that morning.

Pastor Billy’s online Genesis Bible study is Tuesdays at 6:30 pm on his Face Book page.  If you cannot access Face Book, go to Pastor Shred on You Tube live videos and watch from there. We are in Chapter 50. 

Pastor Billy’s Worship Wednesday is at noon on FB and You Tube. Tune in to participate with live comments. This week’s topic “Giving Gifts” featured these songs” “The City Choir/We Are the Reason and Amy Grant & Matthew West/Give This Christmas Away. 

There will be no more Small Group at the Hajek home in December to give you time to enjoy your families and enjoy a break for Christmas.  We will see you again in January.

There are numerous birthday cards for our inmates waiting to be signed on the Graybars table.  Please take a minute and jot a line of encouragement to these men and women.

Happy Birthday today to Pat Baker! Reagan Hippenhammer has a birthday on the 19th! Ellen Startz and Phil Graniczny celebrate on the 21st! Bruce Smit celebrates on the 23rd!

Best wishes to Judy Fash who had hip surgery Thursday and is recuperating at home. Speak to Dawn Gonda if you would like to send a meal to help the Fashs during her down time.  Best wishes to Freda Wolfenden who is in Silver Cross Hospital.  We missed her today as she is a past winner for Ugly Sweater.

Thank you for all you do to support this church! We hope to see you all back next Sunday at 10 a.m. to celebrate Christmas Eve with us!

 

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