Aug 19 2018 - Nov 25 2018 | revolutionchurchold

November 25, 2018:

Hi, friends! Happy Thanksgiving holiday weekend! From the number of people who showed up in their drawstring stretchy pants, it seems we were all blessed with plenty of turkey and trimmings and pie! We hope you got some much needed rest.

Wasn’t the church beautiful today on this Communion Sunday? We thank the Decorating Team for making the place festive inside and out. Tom Wozny gets special recognition for his efforts on the annual Christmas tree! Next Sunday you will see it lit up in all its glory!

Today’s songs were: “Hello My Name Is”, “Spirit In the Sky”, “Blessed Be the Name”, “I Stand Amazed”, and “Hallelujah”.

Pastor Billy continued his series, “We Are Family” with his message, “Baby Boomers”. Text was from Romans 12:3-5 and 1 Corinthians 12: 12-17. Chef Jason Hippenhammer was on stage preparing homemade Alfredo sauce to help illustrate the sermon lesson in a unique way. After service all were invited up to sample his recipe. Spoiler Alert: His was better than Ragu! (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.)

Thank you to all who stayed after church for the monthly prayer meeting. This is usually the last Sunday of each month.

Saturday, December 1, 1:00 pm is the Women’s Merry Mixer Christmas event here at Revolution! There will be gorgeous, themed tables, gifts, prizes, and a delicious meal. Tickets are $10.

Our Children’s Christmas program “BEHOLD—THE CHRISTMAS STORY” is Friday, Dec. 14th! The play begins at 7 pm, but if you come at 6 pm you can enjoy free hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, and the Ozinga “Merry Mixer” light show truck! If you can bake or provide cookies for this event, please sign up at the Connection Table. Paper invitations are now available, so please take some to share with friends.

Invite family and friends to our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Monday, Dec. 24, 5:00 pm. This service is entirely different than our Sunday service.

Graybars Project prison outreach thanks all who donated signed Christmas cards. We had plenty for our inmates and enough for Crossroads Prison Ministry correspondence school to include a card in many of their lesson packets! Your extras are already set aside for next year. Magazines for the Will County Jail is an ongoing collection. Be sure and cut out your address labels first!

Happy 7th Birthday, Mason! Happy Birthday to Kevin Ward and Zachary Smith on Monday! After four girls, we congratulate Kristen and Jason Hippenhammer as they prepare for a BOY!

Hunker down, brace for the winter storm predicted to hit us this afternoon and enjoy your Sabbath. We will see you again next Sunday!

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November 11, 2018:

It was good to see you all at church this Veterans Day weekend. Our veterans were asked to stand and were honored by applause. Thank you to all these men and women and their families for their years of service!

Pastor Billy began his new series, “We Are Family”. His message “Millennials and the Church” included text from 1 Timothy 4:12. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “All the People Said Amen”, “If We Are the Body”, “It Is You”, and “Jesus Paid It All” and “Lord Prepare Me”.

Several of our youth and the Sandovals were blessed to serve with “Feed My Starving Children” at the Suter Company in Sycamore, IL! It is always good to teach our kids to have compassion for those less fortunate among us.

The Sandovals have kicked off “Warm Their Soles”, a project to gather NEW socks and gloves for the homeless. There is a bin in the back to collect donations for men, women, and children. Thank you to those who care enough to make sure these brothers and sisters have dry, warm feet and hands during this chilly season.

Magazines for the Will County Detention Center are still being collected at the Graybars Project table. We have had great response already. Speak up if you want to ride along for delivery in Joliet or are able to deliver to other correctional facilities. Be sure and cut or ink out the address labels first! Special appreciation to Jan Dombrowski for her efforts at the New Lenox library which netted us PILES of reading material!

Senior Ministry Thanksgiving Lunch is on Wednesday, Nov 14th at the church. 55 years and older are welcome, just please sign up to bring a dish, and see more info at the Connection Table. Leader, Rita Brown can answer your questions. There are some really outstanding cooks in this group, so join them for some good eatin’ if you are free!

If you are single, you are invited to Tom and Pat Wozny’s house in Frankfort at 5 pm Sunday, November 18th for “Friendsgiving”. To attend you will need to sign up to bring a side dish at the Connection Table. Brenda Hajek and Jill Good can give you more details for this holiday meal.

Men’s Quarterly Breakfast is Saturday, November 17th, 8 am at the church. There will be lots of food prepared by Women’s Ministry, fellowship, and a short devotional. You must sign up for this, but it is FREE.

December 1 is the women’s Christmas event here at Revolution! The invitations are gorgeous and were passed out last Sunday. If you were absent, visit the table with the Christmas sleigh for yours. You may purchase your ticket and find more info at the Connection Table.

If you would like to help with our children’s Christmas Play "BEHOLD", volunteer with Julian and Miriam ASAP!

Wedding bells were ringing for Jackie H. and Jason S. this weekend! Congratulations to this awesome couple! We wish them decades of happiness!

Congratulations to Kevin Ward for landing a new job at Amazon!

Happy Anniversary to Jason and Kristen Hippenhammer! Happy Birthday to Fishes and Loaves leader Dawn Gonda on Friday!

Get well wishes are extended to Bryan Milligan and guitarist John Nordsell who both had surgery this week.

Condolences to Debbie Struck on the passing of her grandmother last week. Bruce and Tammy Smit thank everyone who supported them during the funeral week for his mother, Lois. For calls, food, cards, attending her service, airport pick ups, and for stepping in as impromptu pallbearers, all of these acts of love were appreciated.

We want to see you next Sunday. Thank you for all you do to help this church thrive. Have a blessed week!

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November 4, 2018:

It was good to see you at church this drizzly November morning. Nearly everybody remembered it was time change weekend. We enjoyed cinnamon rolls before and after service. Welcome, visitors!

Pastor Billy took a breather today, and Pastor Bob Smith filled the pulpit. His message “Who Are You?” included text from Genesis 1:26-27, and Genesis 2:19-20. He taught about Identity, Purpose, and Relationship. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Who Are You”, “Leaning On the Everlasting Arms”, “Hallelujah”, “No Longer Slaves”, and “The Lord Our God”.

The Sandovals are kicking off “Warm Their Soles”, a project to gather NEW socks and gloves for the homeless. There will be a bin in the back to collect donations for men, women, and children. Thank you to those who care enough to make sure these brothers and sisters have dry, warm feet and hands during this chilly season.

Thanks to all who contributed Christmas cards for the inmates. Today was the deadline for those. Magazines for the Will County Detention Center are still being collected at the Graybars Project table. We have had great response already. Be sure and cut or ink out the address labels first!

December 1 is the women’s Christmas event here at Revolution! The invitations are gorgeous and were passed out today. If you were absent, visit the table with the Christmas sleigh next Sunday for yours. More info is found at the Connection Table.

If you would like to help with our children’s Christmas Play, volunteer with Julian and Miriam ASAP!

Happy Birthday on Friday to Michelle Grifford! She is so good to be sure all our special events are visible in the public eye!

Deepest condolences to Rita and Bob Brown on the death of their son, Michael. His service has already been held. Our sympathies to Bruce Smit on the passing of his mother, Lois. Visitation is Wednesday, 10-11 am at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Monee. Funeral begins at 11. Burial is at the church.

We want to see you next Sunday when Pastor Billy begins his November series, “We Are Family”. Have a blessed week!

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October 28, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church this morning. We had a strong attendance with several new faces! We recited The Shema in Hebrew to stand with our Jewish family affected by the senseless massacre inside a synagogue in PA this weekend. Monthly prayer meeting was held after service.

Pastor Billy continued his October series “Who Are You Listening To?” with a message called ”When Satan Speaks ”. Text was from Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 2:17-18, John 8:44, and Luke 4, the story of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Revival”, “You’re Worthy of My Praise”, “Redeemed”, and “Nothing but the Blood”. (Thank you, Penny for taking responsibility for Communion today.)

This week “The Altar” youth group (along with some adults) was blessed to do an outreach to homeless people in a shelter 11 minutes away in Joliet! Socks, water, and food were passed out. A door was opened for returning to possibly do some children’s meetings! Speak to the Sandovals if you would like to contribute items to make more blessing bags for the homeless. They are also kicking off “Warm Their Soles”, a project to gather NEW socks and gloves for the homeless. There will be a bin in the back to collect donations for men, women, and children. Thank you to those who care enough to make sure these brothers and sisters have dry, warm feet and hands during this chilly season.

If you enjoyed the Mexican fiesta last week, consider coming to the Senior Ministry Thanksgiving Lunch on Wednesday, Nov 14th at the church. 55 years and older are welcome, just please sign up and see more info at the Connection Table. Leader, Rita Brown can answer your questions.

December 1 is the women’s Christmas event here at Revolution, and Pat Wozny is seeking volunteers to design and host tables. More info is found at the Connection Table. Sign up if this is your gifting!

Deadline is NEXT SUNDAY for Christmas cards for our inmates. Be SURE and read the guidelines posted on the bulletin board before marking cards so none are rejected in the mail room. White envelopes ONLY!

Remember we are collecting magazines for men and women at Will County Adult Detention Center in Joliet. There is a basket on the bulletin board table. If you want to ride along to the jail to help deliver these each month, see Tammy Smit.

Get well soon wishes are going out to our head of Security, George Carroll. He had plastic surgery on his hand after going to battle with a router. Ouch! Router: 1. George: 0. Kaye Schmidt, we see you fighting cancer yet still in your seat smiling, and we send you love and good wishes, too. So many of us have been seriously ill this week.

Happy Birthday to Greg Struck!

Thanks to Jill Good for the yummy snack cakes she baked for the hospitality table! She is talented in the kitchen! If you have a sweet tooth, you will definitely want to be here next week for CINNAMON ROLL SUNDAY. Come enjoy a sweet treat on time change weekend. Remember the goofy video today that showed Kathleen falling BACK off the ladder, and roll your clock BACK an hour. Have a great week! You are loved!

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October 21, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church on this chippy October morning. At least there wasn’t hail and SNOW like fell on many of us Saturday! We had a strong attendance with several new faces!

Pastor Billy continued his October series “Who Are You Listening To?” with a message called ”Can You Hear Me Now?”. Text was from Genesis 22 and John 1:22-27. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page. See if you can spot the moonwalking bear!) Today’s songs were: “Because He Lives”, “Open the Eyes of My Heart”, “Always”, and “Good Good Father”. Thank you, Justin Graniczny for filling in on drums for us!

Yesterday was our Men’s Donuts & Devotional here at the church. 18 guys attended! Deacon Todd Bullaro delivered a really good devotional. Thanks to those who came out and to those who stayed to put the church back together afterwards since we had carpets cleaned and furniture was stacked all over the place.

Senior Ministry Mexican Fiesta was at the church this Wednesday, with 40 attending, and this place looked, smelled, and sounded like a Mexican restaurant! Miriam Sandoval handmade the colorful paper flowers for the tables. Some of the food was catered, but thank you to all who brought the other dishes to share. We had several new people eat with us who do not call this their home church. Special thanks to the folks who put in so much effort to provide this fun meal.

If you enjoyed the fiesta, consider coming to the Senior Ministry Thanksgiving Lunch on Wednesday, Nov 14th at the church. 55 yrs and older are welcome, just please sign up and see more info at the Connection Table. Leader, Rita Brown can answer your questions.

Men’s Quarterly Breakfast is Saturday, November 17th, 8 am at the church. There will be lots of hearty food, fellowship and a short devotional. You must sign up for this, but it is FREE.

Dec. 1 is the women’s Christmas event here at Revolution, and Pat Wozny is seeking table hostesses to put on their creative decorating hats and make things beautiful. Sign up if this is your gifting!

Let us remind you of the white display case beside the Connection Table. George Carroll constructed the intricate temple model inside. Check THAT out! Excellent job! There is a slot there in which you can drop contributions to our building fund, also known as the “Moriah Project”. Some folks are donating monthly, others have given one time gifts.

If you’d like to participate, remember we are collecting magazines and Christmas cards for the Graybars Project inmates. There are baskets on the bulletin board table for both. Deadline is Nov. 4th for the cards. Mail rules have changed since last year, so be SURE and read the guidelines posted on the bulletin board before marking cards. White envelopes ONLY!

Thanks to every person who stepped up to help Diane Neakarse move yesterday! It is good to help each other when we can.

Monthly prayer meeting will begin about 10 minutes after church is dismissed for those who wish to stay on October 28th. We want to see all of you back next Sunday.

Have a great week!

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October 14, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church on this chilly morning. We had a strong attendance with several new faces!

Pastor Billy continued his October series “Who Are You Listening To?” with a message called ”What the World Has to Say”. Text was from Romans 12:1-2 and Ephesians 2:1-5. Bet we were the only church in the USA to toss Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms into the crowd to help pound home the lesson! (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Let the Praises Ring”, “Oh How I Love Jesus/Thank You Lord”, “Draw Me Close”, “One Thing Remains” and “Lord Prepare Me to Be a Sanctuary”.

Graybars Project has a basket on their table to collect magazines, coloring, and puzzle books for the Will County Adult Detention Center in Joliet. There is an ongoing dire need for reading materials there. They are also collecting SIGNED, UNSEALED Christmas cards for inmates now through Nov. 4th. Mail rules have changed since last year, so be SURE and read the guidelines posted on the bulletin board before marking cards.

Did you take home some free jalapenos, green tomatoes, and pumpkins? Thank you to the Knotts for sharing their surplus! How generous!

Thanks to Bob and Connie Schuler for hosting the adult connection BBQ at their home last night. This was an evening of bonfire, supper, and bean bags. What a good crowd! Thanks to all who cooked and attended.

Senior Ministry Mexican Fiesta is at the church this Wednesday, October 17th at noon. Check for sign-up sheet and more info at the Connection Table for this time of food and fellowship. 55+ and their spouses are invited. Friends of this age are also welcome, so just sign up!

October 20, 7 am is our Men’s Donuts & Devotional here at the church. We should be finished by 8 am, so you will still have your Saturday free. All our men and male friends are welcome.

Wednesday, Nov. 14th is a Senior Ministry Thanksgiving lunch at the church for those 55 and older! Rita Brown is the contact person for this holiday fellowship meal. Have you signed up yet?

Happy 26th wedding anniversary to Phil and Michelle Grifford! Happy Birthday to Pat Wozny!

Condolences to Brenda Hajek on the passing of her brother-in-law in Memphis before church began this morning. Pray for Harvey Jr, and widow Pat during this time of grief. Prayers for Brenda’s other brother-in-law, Danny, who has been hospitalized for months with cancer and is doing poorly.

Come early next week and grab coffee and a nibble before the first song starts at 10 am. Our hospitality team is so good to have that table up and running each Sunday. Have a great week, and take good care of each other! Speaking of that, if anybody has muscles and some free time, Diane Neakarse is moving from New Lenox to another New Lenox address Saturday, and helpers would be appreciated.

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October 7, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church on this gray and drizzly morning. We had a good crowd in spite of the weather. We extend a welcome to our visitors, also!

Pastor Billy began his new October series “Who Are You Listening To?” with a message called ”Voices”. Text was from Ephesians 2:1-5 and Romans 7:14-25. Before today, who knew that Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” was inspired by these verses in Romans? Thanks to Chris Meskin and Todd Bullaro for assisting with sermon drama today! (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “I Saw the Light”, “This is Amazing Grace”, “All My Hope Is In Jesus”, and “Shout To The Lord”.

“Common Ground”, a women’s get acquainted event was held at the church yesterday. There was lunch, a game, craft making, and a devotion given by Penny Knott. Thank you to all who attended and those who helped with set up, food prep, clean up, and made the fun stuff happen!

Bob and Connie (Turtle Lady) Schuler are hosting an October 13 adult connection BBQ at their Elwood home. This is an evening of bonfire and bean bags. Bring a chair and a side dish or dessert to share. Remember, no children at this one, so plan ahead for a babysitter. In case of rain, they will resort to Plan B and do fun stuff inside.

Senior Ministry Mexican Fiesta is Wednesday, October 17th at noon. Check for sign-up sheet and more info at the Connection Table for this time of food and fellowship. 55+ and their spouses are invited. Friends of this age are also welcome, so just sign up!

October 20, 7 am is our Men’s Donuts & Devotional here at the church. We should be finished by 8 am, so you will still have your Saturday free. All our men and male friends are welcome.

Happy Birthday today to Lakeda Vaughn! (She is the sweetheart who prayed the benediction over us today.) Bob and Rita Brown celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this week. Huge congrats to them! We would love to see them have 50 more!

Come early next week and grab coffee and a nibble before the first song starts at 10 am. Our hospitality team is so good to have that table up and running each week. Thanks to whoever baked the brownies to share. Have a great week, and take good care of each other!

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September 30, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church today on Family Sunday! The Schulers treated us to homemade toffee, and the Knotts shared apples picked at a Michigan orchard. The Lord loves cheerful givers, and so do we!

Pastor Billy continued with his “Seven Churches of Revelation” series with a message called ”Five Steps to Failure”. We reviewed vital lessons learned from our studies of the churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Lay Em Down”, “All the People Said Amen”, “I’ll Fly Away”, and “Glory in the Highest” for Communion. Our monthly prayer meeting was immediately following service for those who wished to stay.

Thank you to all the wonderful folks who donated toiletries, clothing, food, linens, a bike, and household items to bless inmate Brett! One couple even sent money for tattoo removal. Bruce Smit drove his truck full of your love gifts all the way to a tough neighborhood in East St. Louis to make the delivery to the halfway house. Brett shared with the other residents there, and he said some of the folk had never experienced such love and kindness from strangers before, and they were deeply grateful and touched. Special thanks to Vivian, Brenda, Debbie, Greg, and Lakeda for putting forth extra efforts to provide a hand up!

“Common Ground”, a women’s “get acquainted” event will be at the church Saturday, October 6th at noon. Deadline for $15 ticket purchase was today. There will be coffee bar and soup & salad bar provided. You will also get to make and take home a craft. Pat Wozny can give you more info.

Bob and Connie (Turtle Lady) Schuler are hosting an October 13 adult connection BBQ at their Elwood home. This is an evening of bonfire and bean bags. Bring a chair and a side dish or dessert to share. Sign up at the Connection Table. Remember, no children at this one, so plan ahead for a babysitter.

October 20, 7 am is our Men’s Donuts & Devotional here at the church. We should be finished by 8 am, so you will still have your Saturday free. All our men and male friends are welcome.

We ask a special blessing on the Golden family as Jan’s father will be buried this weekend in TN. We pray for safe travels and for God’s comfort during this time of grief.

We also pray for safe travels home for Elena’s sister, Dominga, and for Harvey Ferguson as he returns to Memphis. It has been a joy having them with us in service.

Happy Birthday, Debbie Struck and Elizabeth Hippenhammer!

Next Sunday check out the clipboards on the back table listing opportunities to serve with the ministries necessary for Sunday morning church operations. Just TRY one. If you are not a good fit there, you don’t have to stay. Everybody needs to be busy serving the body here. Have a great week, and take good care of each other!

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September 23, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church today!

Pastor Billy continued with his “Seven Churches of Revelation” series with a message called “Laodicea—Lukewarm” from Revelation 3:14-22. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Power in the Blood”, “Your Love Oh Lord”, “Grace Like Rain”, and “Cannons”. Thanks to Bruce Smit and Grant Cromwell for sharing their guitar talents with us!

After service Pastor Billy baptized drummer Mikey Nordsell. Jill Good was baptized by her friend, Pat Wozny. Jill and Mikey, we are very proud of you!

“Family Fall Festival” was yesterday from 10 am-2 pm. This free event for the community included a bouncy house, carnival games, baking and chili competitions, corn husking, puppet show, and prizes. Thank you to all who sacrificed your Saturday to set-up, work, and tear down when it was all over. Thank you to the local businesses who came alongside in support.

Applause for our Fall Festival winners:

Chili Cookoff: 1st: Tom Wozny, 2nd: Cindi Miller, 3rd: Bob Smith

Baking: 1st: Connie Schuler’s peach cobbler, 2nd: Jan Dombrowski’s blueberry cake, 3rd: Mishel Rych’s strawberry cake

Corn Husking: 1st: Kathleen Milligan, 2nd: Justin Graniczny

Grand Prize Raffle Winner: Faith Cromwell

Special thanks to Miriam & Julian for leading this event. High fives for Magic Autumn’s balloon artistry and the puppeteers’ entertainment. We hope you all had fun!

Singles’ BBQ and Newcomers’ Dessert have been postponed because of scheduling conflicts. Sorry about that! We will reschedule both soon.

“Common Ground”, a women’s “get acquainted” event will be at the church Saturday, October 6th at noon. Deadline for $15 ticket purchase is September 30th. There will be coffee bar and soup & salad bar provided. Sign up and pay by NEXT SUNDAY at the Connection Table.

Bob and Connie (Turtle Lady) Schuler are hosting an October 13 adult connection BBQ at their Elwood home. This is an evening of bonfire and bean bags. Bring a side dish or dessert to share. Sign up at the Connection Table. Remember, no children at this one, so plan ahead for a babysitter.

Senior Ministry Mexican Fiesta is Wednesday, October 17th at noon. Check for sign-up sheet and more info at the Connection Table for time of food and fellowship. 55+ and their spouses are invited. Friends of this age are also welcome, so just sign up!

October 20, 7 am is our Men’s Donuts & Devotional here at the church. We should be finished by 8 am, so you will still have your Saturday free. All our men and male friends are welcome.

Happy 12th Anniversary to the Sandovals! Happy 34th Anniversary to the Woznys!

We ask a special blessing on the Golden family as Jan’s father passed away this weekend. Mr. Shannon Hicks will have viewing and burial in Dickson, TN on October 1-2. We pray for safe travels and for God’s comfort during this time of grief.

Come a bit early next week to check out the many clipboards on the back table listing opportunities to serve with our various ministries. There is enough variety that you certainly should be able to find an area where you can use your gifts and talents to help your church run smoothly. Many thanks to those of you already serving with joyful hearts. This place couldn’t survive without you. Have a blessed week!

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September 16, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

It was good to see you at church today! Didn’t you love the new fall décor? Our resident florist, Judy Fash, is responsible for the beauty inside, and the Woznys filled the planters at the entrance. Thank you, decorators!

Pastor Billy continued with his “Seven Churches of Revelation” series with a message from Revelation 3:7-13 . We studied about the little church at Philadelphia that had an enormous amount of faith and willingness to stand. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Today is the Day”, “Everlasting God”, “Give Me Faith”, and “The Lord Our God”, closing song "He Is Lord".

Nine people from our senior ministry traveled to Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum in Kentucky this week for a three-day adventure! The weather cooperated, and they all seemed to enjoy the exhibits and the fellowship. How fun!

Yesterday 13 men gathered at the church for a time of donuts, coffee, and a testimony devotional presented by Tom Wozny. Guys, we hope you enjoyed your morning.

“It Matters to This One” Appreciation Luncheon for Graybars Project pen pals was this afternoon in Frankfort. Each member was presented with a starfish gift bag and a nice meal. One of our inmates contributed a poem written especially for the occasion. Thanks to the Lees and the Smits for hosting!

“Family Fall Festival” is Saturday, September 22 from 10 am-2 pm. This is a FREE event for the whole family with bouncy houses, carnival games, pie eating and corn husking contests, a chili cookoff, and much more. There is a Friday meeting at the church for those volunteering. Talk to Pastor Julian or Miriam for details. Invite buddies and make plans NOW so you can be here for this fun event!

Singles are invited to a free BBQ on Sunday, September 23rd. Brenda Hajek is hosting at her New Lenox home. Sign up at the Connection Table, and you will receive the address.

Newcomer’s Dessert scheduled for September 28th has been postponed because of scheduling conflicts. Sorry about that!

Baptismal service will be next Sunday, September 23rd with a class for all the candidates that morning at 9 am at the church. Mark your connection card or speak to any of the pastors if you want to be included.

Come a bit early next week to check out the many clipboards on the back table listing opportunities to serve with our various ministries. There is enough variety that you certainly should be able to find an area where you can use your gifts and talents to help your church run smoothly. Many thanks to those of you already shouldering responsibility and serving with joyful hearts. This place couldn’t survive without you. Have a blessed week!

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September 9, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

Thank you for joining us at church today! Pastor Billy continued with his “Seven Churches of Revelation” series with a message titled “Sardis—Dead or Alive”. Text was from Revelation 3:1-6. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Revival”, “Let the Praises Ring”, “God of Wonders”, and “I Stand Amazed”.

Labor Day was Monday, and we marched in the Manhattan parade. Walkers passed out candy, business cards and info for the upcoming fall festival. Our musicians dressed in patriotic garb suitable for the Bicentennial theme and played live on a trailer while the puppets sang along. Thanks to all who donated candy. We had plenty with a bit left over! Tom Wozny, George & Darla Carroll, and Greg Fash burnt the midnight oil to create the cake float Sunday night. Thanks to Bruce Smit for the trailer and for driving. A couple of minutes after we finished the parade the skies opened and thoroughly drenched the puppeteers and the band as they made their way back to the church. We were heartsick at the sight of dripping wet instruments and electronics, but God was good and today everything fired up and worked well. YAY for that!

Small groups are kicking off, so if you want to be included, hurry and sign up! Browse the Connection Table to purchase study books and to check out the topics/locations/dates/times that work best for you. We have six classes in addition to individual study opportunities for women.

Thank you to members of Fishes and Loaves who have provided meals for Ken and Jan Poort following Jan’s arm surgery. Feel better soon, Jan! Speak to Dawn Gonda if you would like to serve in this very helpful food ministry. She is the absolutely the sweetest thing, and she would love to put your oven to good use.

Seniors 55+ are traveling to Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum in Kentucky September 12-14! $232.50 is due. Rita Brown or the Woznys can answer your questions. We hope this group has an excellent safe road trip and adventure!

Donuts and Devotional: Saturday, September 15 all men are invited to come to the church for a time of donuts, coffee, and a short devotional. We start at 7:00 and will be finished before 8 am. There is no charge.

One of our Graybars Project inmates is being released next week. There is a basket on the table for those who would like to bless him with toiletries or very basic items to get him on his feet. There is a list of needs posted there for those who would like to show grace to one of our “Last, Lost, Least”. Thank you to those who have already been so very generous with household items. Next Sunday is the final day for the basket.

Appreciation Luncheon for Graybars Project Pen-Pals is 1:00 pm, Sunday, Sept 16 at the Lee home in Frankfort. Today is final day for pen-pals to save their spot. Speak to Durk, Linda, or Tammy for more information.

“Family Fall Festival” is Saturday, September 22 from 10 am-2 pm. This is a FREE event for the whole family with bouncy houses, carnival games, pie eating and corn husking contests, a chili cookoff, and much more! Please visit the Connection Table or the online sign-up page to help. Talk to Pastor Julian or Miriam for details. Invite buddies and make plans NOW so you can be here for this fun event!

Our next baptismal service will be Sunday, September 23rd with a class for all the candidates that morning at 9 am at the church. Mark your connection card or speak to any of the pastors if you want to be included.

Singles are invited to a free BBQ on Sunday, September 23rd. Brenda Hajek is hosting at her New Lenox home. Sign up at the Connection Table, and you will receive the address.

Newcomer’s Dessert is Friday, September 28th at 7 pm at the Knott home in Manhattan. If you are new or would simply like to meet more people and leaders who attend here, you are invited. This is free, but you need to sign up so they can save you a spot.

“Common Ground”, a women’s “get acquainted” event, will be at the church Saturday, October 6th at noon. Deadline for $15 ticket purchase is September 30th. There will be coffee bar and soup & salad bar provided. Sign up and pay at the Connection Table.

Bob and Connie (Turtle Lady) Schuler are hosting an October 13 adult connection BBQ at their Elwood home. This is an evening of bonfire, and bean bags. Bring a side dish or dessert to share. Sign up at the Connection Table. Remember, no children at this one, so plan ahead for a babysitter.

Let’s fill up God’s house again next week! First song begins at 10 am and pre-service prayer is 9:30 in Pastor Billy's office for those who wish to participate. Come early and enjoy coffee and snack provided by those who serve with the hospitality ministry! Have a blessed week.

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September 2, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

Thank you for joining us at church today!

Pastor Billy continued “The Seven Churches of Revelation” series with the message, ”Tryatira—Tolerance and Compromise”, with text from Revelation 2:18-29. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Today’s songs were: “Soul on Fire”, “You Are Good”, “Give Us Clean Hands”, and “Famous One”.

Labor Day is tomorrow, Monday September 3, and we are marching in the Manhattan parade with 11:00 kick off. We need lots of walkers to help us pass out business cards and candy. Our musicians will be playing live on a trailer and the puppets will be “singing” along. Dress festively as the theme is “Bicentennial”. You can check out the parade route on the Manhattan website if you are planning to come clap and cheer. If you forgot to bring your candy yet, bring it with you Monday.

“HERO” (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) hosted a conference Thursday, August 30th in New Lenox. Pastor Billy participated in the presentation. Thank you to those who attended and prayed with those impacted by addiction. There are pamphlets on the Connection Table for more information about this organization.

Small Group sign-ups are in progress. Browse the Connection Table to purchase books or check out the topics/locations/dates/times that work best for you. We have six classes in addition to individual study opportunities for women.

One of our Graybars Project inmates is being released this month. There is a basket on the table for those who would like to bless him with toiletries or very basic items to get him on his feet. There is a list of needs there for those who would like to show grace to one of our “Last, Lost, Least”. Thank you to those offering furniture and large items. He is still waiting for the prison to determine where he is to live. Once we get that info, we can proceed.

Seniors 55+ are planning a trip to Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum in Kentucky September 12-14! Itinerary, hotel information, payment requirements and sign-up sheets are found on the Connection Table. $232.50 is due. This is the final week to sign-up. Rita Brown or the Woznys can answer your questions.

Donuts and Devotional: Saturday, September 15, all men are invited to come to the church for a time of donuts, coffee, and a short devotional. We start at 7:00 and will be finished before 8 am. There is no charge.

Appreciation Luncheon for Graybars Project Pen-Pals is 1:00 pm, Sunday, Sept 16 at the Lee home in Frankfort. Speak to Durk, Linda, or Tammy for more information.

“Family Fall Festival” is Saturday, September 22 from 10 am-2 pm . This is a FREE event for the whole family with bouncy houses, carnival games, pie eating and corn husking contests, a chili cookoff, and much more! Please visit the Connection Table to sign up to help. Talk to Pastor Julian or Miriam for details. Invite buddies and make plans NOW so you can be here for this fun event!

Our next baptismal service will be Sunday, September 23 with a class for all the candidates that morning at 9 am at the church. Mark your connection card or speak to any of the pastors if you want to be included.

Newcomer’s Dessert is Friday, September 28 at 7 pm at the Knott home in Manhattan. If you are new or would simply like to meet more people and leaders who attended here, you are invited. This is free, but you need to sign up so they can save you a spot.

Happy 23rd Birthday, Robbie Fosen!

We hope by next Sunday everybody will be back from illness and vacations. Let’s fill up God’s house again! First song begins at 10 am and pre-service prayer is 9:30 in the kitchen for those who wish to participate. Come early and enjoy coffee and snack provided by those who serve with the hospitality ministry! We hope to see you at the parade in the morning. Have a great holiday!

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August 26, 2018:

Hello, Friends!

Warm welcome to all our visitors. We saw many new faces in the crowd. We hope you were blessed by the service and the fellowship on this Communion Sunday.

Pastor Billy continued “The Seven Churches of Revelation” series with the message, ”Pergamum – Where Satan Has His Throne”, with text from Revelation 2:12-17. We also got a good laugh out of the parody video, “Church Hunters”. (You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.) Thanks to George Carroll for the sword demo!

Today’s songs were: “Open Up the Heavens”, “Trading My Sorrows”, “Blessed Be the Name”, and “I Surrender All”. We thank guest musicians, Bruce Smit and Grant Cromwell, for playing bass and guitar with the team today. There was a churchwide prayer meeting immediately after service for those who wished to stay.

We appreciate Bob Brown contacting folks who submit prayer requests on Sunday’s connection cards. He has been praying over the phone with each person, and we have had a lot of positive feedback since this started!

Labor Day is just around the corner, Monday September 3, and we are marching in the Manhattan parade with 11:00 kick off. We need lots of walkers to help us pass out business cards and candy. Our musicians will be playing live on a trailer and the puppets will be “singing” along. Dress festively as the theme is “Bicentennial”. You can check out the parade route on the Manhattan website if you are planning to come clap and cheer. If you forgot to bring your candy yet, just bring it with you Monday.

Autumn Small Group sign ups are in progress. Browse the Connection Table to purchase books or check out the topics/locations/dates/times that work best for you. We have six classes in addition to individual study opportunities for women.

Seniors 55+ gathered for a BBQ Friday at Kathy Felchlin’s Manhattan home. Singles met for potluck and a free music show by Rosie and the Rivets at Concerts on the Green in Frankfort last Sunday evening. We appreciate those who attended and those who organized.

Graybars Project sent a team to serve at a prison tent revival in Plainfield, Indiana yesterday morning. Because of heavy rain the men were moved inside, so the volunteer duties greatly changed. (Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape!) They were able to pray with several inmates who came forward for the altar call, which was an honor. Thanks to Pastor Bob for chauffeuring the group and for not hurling himself into traffic after six hours of non-stop girly magpie chatter!

One of our more local, young prisoners is being released next month. There is a basket on the table for those who would like to bless him with toiletries or very basic items to get him on his feet. There is a list of needs there for those who would like to show grace to one of our “Last, Lost, Least”. Thank you to those offering furniture. He is still waiting for the prison to determine where he is to live. Once we get that info, we can proceed.

“HERO” (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) is hosting a conference Thursday, August 30th from 5:00-8:30 pm in New Lenox. Pastor Billy is participating in the presentation. The group is seeking folks who are willing to pray and are willing to minister to families of addicts. Larry DeSando can answer any questions. There are pamphlets on the Connection Table for more information about this organization.

Seniors 55+ are planning a trip to Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum in Kentucky September 12-14! Itinerary, hotel information, payment requirements and sign-up sheets are found on the Connection Table. $232.50 is due by September 2. Rita Brown or the Woznys can answer your questions.

“Family Fall Festival” is Saturday, September 22 from 10 am-2 pm . This is a FREE event for the whole family with bouncy houses, carnival games, pie eating and corn husking contests, a chili cookoff, and much more! Please visit the Connection Table to sign up to help. Talk to Pastor Julian or Miriam for details. Invite buddies and make plans NOW so you can be here for this fun event!

Our next baptismal service will be Sunday, September 23 with a class for all the candidates that morning at 9 am at the church.

Mark your connection card or speak to any of the pastors if you want to be included.

Happy FIRST birthday to Princess Scarlett Hippenhammer!

See you next Sunday! And YES, we are open Labor Day weekend!

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August 19, 2018:

Happy Sunday afternoon! Thank you for joining us for church today! Among our visitors, we were surprised and excited to see Harvey Ferguson slip in all the way from Memphis, TN.

Pastor Billy continued “The Seven Churches of Revelation” series with a message called “Smyrna—the Persecuted Church” with text from Revelation 2:8-11, Revelation 20:11-15, and 1st Peter 5:6-11. We also got a good laugh out of the parody video, “Looking For a Church to Call Home”. You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page. Today’s songs were: “Let God Arise”, “Salvation is Here”, “Doxology”, and “Always”.

Speaking of singing, would you like to serve this church by putting our lyrics up on the screen during worship? The Tech Team is looking for folks with some computer abilities to help us once a month. We will train you. Mark your connection card or speak to Cynthia Petersen.

Labor Day is just around the corner, and we are marching in the Manhattan parade again. Last year we ran out of candy, so we are collecting earlier this year. Toss yours into the bin at the back of the church. Thanks to those who have already contributed! We need lots of walkers to help us pass out business cards and candy. Our musicians will be playing live on a trailer and the puppets will be “singing” along.

Our youth group sure had a big time last weekend. They had a spend the night party with movies, make-overs, went to the park, went out for taco lunch, and then ordered pizza for supper. We heard there were lots of giggles and laughter. If you have kids in Jr. Hi. or Sr. Hi., check out “The Altar” on Wednesdays, 6:30 pm at the church.

“Hello, My Name Is” potluck brunch/fellowship was yesterday in Manhattan with 19 attending. Thank you, Penny Knott for hosting, and thank you, Darla Carroll for being the guest speaker this time.

Singles 18+ will meet at Concerts on the Green on Kansas St. in Frankfort today, August 19th, 5 pm. Bring a dish to pass, and enjoy a free music show afterward. “Rosie and the Rivets” is performing. Look for the flag in the back.

Seniors 55+ are gathering for a BBQ at noon this Friday, August 24th at Kathy Felchlin’s Manhattan home. This is free, but you need to sign up and indicate what dish you will take to share.

Our young people will host a community carwash in our parking lot on Saturday, August 25th. How fun! If you’d like to assist or want more info, speak with Pastor Julian.

Be in prayer for travel safety for the Graybars Project group that is volunteering at a prison tent revival in Plainfield, Indiana Saturday morning. They are responsible for greeting inmates before and after the service and assisting the evangelist with chairs and equipment set up.

“HERO” (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization) is hosting a conference Thursday, August 30th from 5:00-8:30 pm in New Lenox. Pastor Billy is participating in the presentation. The group is seeking folks who are willing to pray and are willing to minister to families of addicts. Sign up or speak with Larry DeSando if you want to help or go. There are pamphlets on the Connection Table for more information about this organization.

Seniors 55+ are planning a trip to Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum in Kentucky! Itinerary, hotel information, payment requirements and sign-up sheets are found on the Connection Table. $232.50 per person covers your lodging and tickets.

The Garden Sharing Table is making a comeback! Last year our gardeners brought extra crops, and those who wanted or needed could take home fresh produce for free! If you would like to share your fruits, herbs, or veggies, please wash them and bring a few bags for carrying home.

Happy Birthday to Judy Fash! Happy Anniversary to the Grafraths. Blessings on all our youth and school employees who now have their noses to the grindstone again. We also have several adults in college, so we pray they have successful semesters.

See you next Sunday at 10 am for the first song. Arrive a few minutes earlier and you can enjoy coffee and a snack. Come at 9:30 if you wish to participate in pre-service prayer in the office. 9:00 am in the kitchen is Foundations Bible study taught by Bob and Heather Smith. Have a blessed week!

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