Dec 2 2018 - March 3 2019 | revolutionchurchold

March 3, 2019:

Welcome back, friends!

Thanks for coming to worship with us on Founders’ Day! We recognized those present today who were at our original kick-off service held at Frankfort’s Founders Center five years ago. We also paused to honor those who began with us but have promoted to Heaven: Su Parker, Ronnie Hajek, Rich Portwood and Grandma Mildred Ferguson. We celebrated after service with cake!

This morning Pastor Billy continued his series, “1&2 Peter“with a message called, “Truth or Consequences”. The text was 2 Peter 1:12-15. You can enjoy this sermon again by going to the home page and clicking WATCH Monday afternoon.

Today’s music was “Revolution”, “Today Is the Day”, “Let the Praises Ring”, “God of This City”, “Jesus Paid It All”, and “Fill My Cup, Lord”.

Today we began our monthly collection of items to stock the local Manhattan food pantry, and we had a lot! It is always a blessing to serve our community and help those walking through tough times. Thanks to all who contributed. Thank you to Durk and Linda Lee for delivering these goods to the pantry.

We are collecting magazines, coloring books, paperbacks, and hardback novels to share with the men at the new Joliet Treatment Center that houses 150 mentally ill inmates. We also can use Easter cards with white envelopes. Leave these at the Graybars Project table THROUGH MARCH 24th. Everybody is welcome to tour the Stateville prison in Crest Hill, IL with our team for free. See date and admission requirements at the Graybars table sign-up sheet.

Kristen Hippenhammer is almost ready to birth her son, so we now have openings for serving in the nursery. If you would like to help care for our tiny ones once a month, it would be a humongous help. Mark your connection card or speak with Miriam Sandoval to take a turn.

March 9 at 8 am is our quarterly men’s breakfast at the church. You will need to sign up for this one, or the folks responsible for cooking won’t know how much to prepare! No charge.

Pastor Bob is now collecting $56 from those 13 and older who are attending the one day men’s conference in Wheaton on April 27. The ticket includes lunch. There are a few scholarships available, so if you want to go, but don’t have the funds, speak with Pastor Bob.

Senior Ministry is hosting a St.Patrick’s Day lunch /Kitchen Shower Wednesday, March 13th at the church at noon. There is a sign-up sheet for food and also needed kitchen items. Rita Brown can answer your questions. If you are 55+ come and join us!

Sunday, March 17th, singles are invited to the DeSando home in Frankfort for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration meal. Sign up at the Connection Table for this fun event.

There is a new weekly Tuesday night small group/Bible study starting March 19th at the Knotts’ home in Manhattan. It will begin with the book of James and then move on to Jude. Sign up at the Connection Table.

Ladies, Saturday March 23 at 9am is "Hello My Name Is" for women where someone will share their story. Breakfast /snacks /beverage provided. Please be sure to sign up at the Connection Table. You will be given the address at the time of sign up.

Happy Birthday today to Deacon Darren Rych, and twins, Destiny & Diamond Torres! Tammy, our pee-anna player has a birthday on Saturday!

See everybody back here next Sunday by 10 am. Be sure and pick up your large print copies of “Daily Bread” on the Connection Table. We don’t want those to lie there unread. Have a blessed week, and stay warm!

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February 24, 2019:

Welcome back, friends!

Thanks for coming to worship with us today on Communion Sunday. It was so incredibly windy one member swore he saw a lady peddling her bicycle through the sky!

This morning Pastor Billy continued his series, “1&2 Peter“ with a message called, “The Invisible War”. The text was 1 Peter 3:18-22. (How many of us have the Batman theme song stuck in our head now?)You can enjoy this sermon again by going to the home page and clicking WATCH Monday afternoon.

Today’s music was “Salvation Is Here”, “You Are Worthy of My Praise”, “Let Rise”, “Whom Shall I Fear”, “Always” and “Break Every Chain”.

Founders’ Day is March 3rd, and we will celebrate Revolution Church’s 5th birthday! Join us after service for cake!

Next Sunday we will begin our monthly collection of items to stock the local food pantry. It is always a blessing to serve our community and help those walking through a rough patch. Leave your food on the large table closest to the coffee.

March 9 at 8 am is our quarterly men’s breakfast at the church. You will need to sign up for this one or the folks responsible for cooking won’t know how much to prepare! No charge.

Senior Ministry St. Patrick’s Luncheon and Kitchen Shower is at the church on Wed, March 13 at noon. There is a list of needed items found at the Sign-Up clipboard.

Singles Ministry St. Patrick’s Day Celebration is Sunday, March 17th, 5pm at the DeSando home in Frankfort. Sign up for this meal and fun event at the Connection Table.

Ladies, Saturday March 23 at 9am at Eileen DeSando’s home in Frankfort is "Hello My Name Is". Breakfast /snacks /beverages are provided, and a woman will share her story. Check the Connection Table to see what food items are still needed.

Happy Birthday to Lisa Jasinski today! Our favorite candy maker, Connie Schuler, celebrates on Monday! Justin Graniczny has a birthday Saturday. Destiny & Diamond Torres and Deacon Darren Rych will all be eating birthday cake next Sunday! Let’s stop for a minute and remember sweet Grandma Mildred Ferguson who would’ve celebrated her birthday on Saturday. We sure do miss her!

See you next Sunday at 10 am!

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February 17, 2019:

Welcome back, friends!

Thanks for coming to worship with us today even though many of us woke to snow AGAIN. Raise your frostbitten hand high if you are already sick to death of winter.

This morning Pastor Billy continued his series, “1&2 Peter“ with a message called, “Got Milk?” The text was 1 Peter 2:1-3. We were taught to avoid the land mines of spiritual junk food and instead taste and see that the Lord is good. You can enjoy this sermon again by going to the home page and clicking WATCH Monday afternoon.

Today’s music was “Open Up the Heavens”, “Trading My Sorrows”, “Here I Am to Worship”, and Josh Baldwin’s new one “Stand in Your Love”.

Senior Ministry Italian Valentine Luncheon was Wednesday with over 30 attending. Thanks to all who set up, decorated, cleaned up, and brought food. Special thanks to Pastor Billy and Grant Cromwell for leading the group in vintage karaoke love songs!

Beginning in March we will be doing a monthly collection of items to stock the local food pantry. It is always a blessing to serve our community and help those walking through a rough patch. Listen for more details for this new ministry!

“Experiencing God” at the Lees’ home has been rescheduled for fall. They will have a monthly fellowship meal with devotional instead. Baked potato supper is Tuesday, March 12, at 6:30. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen for more details.

Newcomer’s Dessert is Friday, February 22 at 6:30 pm at the Knotts' home in Manhattan. Remember this is a gathering only for adults, so plan accordingly and come out to meet new people while you snack.

Founders’ Day is March 3rd, and we will celebrate Revolution Church’s 5th birthday! Join us after service for cake!

March 9 at 8 am is our quarterly men’s breakfast at the church. You will need to sign up for this one or the folks responsible for cooking won’t know how much to prepare! No charge.

March 13 Seniors 55+ will meet at the church for a St. Patrick’s Luncheon, fellowship, and a kitchen shower. There is a sign-up sheet at the Connection Table.

Men’s conference will be in Wheaton, IL April 27th, and Pastor Bob wants us to carpool and include all our guys. Cost is $65, so start saving now. If you are interested, there is a sign-up sheet on the Connection Table.

Some of our families are now exchanging jigsaw puzzles. On the bistro table beside the Connection Table you will see the boxes. Work one, and return it. Sharing is fun!

Happy Birthday to Beth Printy on the 18th, Jill Good on the 23rd, and Lisa Jasinski on the 24th! Happy 20th Anniversary wishes are going out to Chris and Vivian Meskin!

Congratulations to Tom Williamson, newest Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant at LHC Home Health Care out of Olympia Fields! God blessed him with this position on his birthday! Yay, Tom!

Thanks to everybody who provided meals for Freda Wolfenden while she was down with pneumonia. We appreciate Dawn Gonda heading up Fishes and Loaves and coordinating the food. She is a sweetheart and would love to add you to her team if you like to cook.

We want to see all of you back with us for Communion next Sunday at 10 am. Stay warm, and have a blessed week!

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February 10, 2019:

Greetings, friends!

Thanks for coming to worship with us today. Some of us barely got home before yet ANOTHER round of that dreaded “Devil’s Dandruff” started falling from the sky. Keep repeating: “It’s only 37 more days til spring.” We can do this!

This morning Pastor Billy continued his series, “1&2 Peter“ with a message called, “Walking in the Dark ”. The text was 1 Peter 1:10-16. You can see the sermon by clicking WATCH on our home page Monday afternoon.

Since this is Valentine’s Day week, the band dressed festively, and today’s music was “Unchanging”, “You are Good”, “ Doxology” , “How He Loves”, Hillsong’s new one, “Who You Say I Am” and “Jesus Loves Me”.

“Turtle Queen”, Connie Schuler, was recognized for treating us to homemade candy again today. She is so generous with her treats! There was a huge bowl of it at the hospitality table. If you enjoyed your sample, please note that she is always taking orders for sale.

It was announced that beginning in March a monthly collection of items to stock the local food pantry will be gathered. It is always a blessing to serve our community and help those walking through a rough patch. Listen for more details for this new ministry!

The Altar youth group went bowling Wednesday night and had a whoop-ti-do time together. Parents, you should check it out if you have children. Pastor Julian can give you more info.

“Experiencing God” at the Lee home in Frankfort begins February this Tuesday at 6:30 pm. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen to inquire about a $16 book. Sign-up sheet is at the Connection Table for this Monday evening class!

Men’s Donuts and Devotional was yesterday at the church with 13 attending. Thank you, Chris Meskin for leading the devotional. March 9 at 8 am is our quarterly men’s breakfast. You will need to sign up for this one! No charge.

Senior Ministry Valentine Luncheon is Wednesday, February 13 at noon at the church. There is a sign-up sheet at the Connection Table if you want to come out for good food and some fun! This will be an Italian meal with lasagna, spaghetti, salad, breads, and Italian desserts for those 55+.

Newcomer’s Dessert is Friday, February 22 at 6:30pm at the Knott’s home in Manhattan. Sign up for this free adult gathering at the Connection Table.

We are once again collecting magazines to be shared with the men and women in the Joliet jail. We also can use birthday cards and general greeting cards, preferably with white envelopes. Leave these at the Graybars Project table. We have several birthday cards there if you wish to sign for the inmates and brighten their days. Keep in mind that any splashes, stains or food smears will cause the magazines and those cards to be rejected at the correctional facilities. For this reason, let’s keep that table free of your snacks and beverages.

We are happy Freda Wolfenden and Brian Fischer are home from the hospital. Phil Graniczny’s mom is now under hospice care and has returned to live at his home. Prayers for Leslie who will be caring for her.

Happy Birthday to Jan Poort! Jimmy Leatherman and Tom Williamson share a birthday on the 15th!

We want to see all of you back with us next Sunday at 10 am. Stay warm, and have a blessed holiday week!

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February 3, 2019:

Greetings on this Super Bowl Sunday, friends!

If you are reading this, it means you survived the Polar Vortex that roared through and turned Chicagoland into “Chiberia”! 52 hours below zero with windchills of -50s mopped the floor with many of us. After THAT, today felt like spring! Let’s hope we are over the worst of winter now.

This morning Pastor Billy began his series, “1&2 Peter“ with a message called, “Our Living Hope”. The main text was 1 Peter 1:2. Today’s music was “This is Amazing Grace”, “Your Love Never Fails”, “Your Grace Finds Me”, “Shout to the Lord”, and Hillsong’s new one, “Who You Say I Am “.

Hats off to our newest graduate! Brenda Hajek began college when was 64 and widowed. 48 years after high school she earned her Associate in General Studies (with high honors) from Joliet Junior College! How awesome and inspiring is THAT?

Happy 65th wedding anniversary to Durk and Linda Lee! Pastor Bob Smith’s parents just celebrated 71 years together! These couples deserve a standing ovation! Donna Windberg’s birthday was yesterday! Jo Ann Preston and Jan Poort also celebrate their birthdays this week, and Happy Birthday (Sunday Feb. 3) to our very own Children's Pastor, Miriam Sandoval!

Pastor Billy will be teaching an intensive five-week class called “Comparative Religions” beginning this Tuesday at the church. You will compare and contrast various cults and world religions to Christianity. Last week’s first session was cancelled so students wouldn’t freeze to death en route, so if you want to join now, you will not be behind.

“Experiencing God” at the Lee home in Frankfort begins February 11 at 6:30 pm. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen to inquire about a $16 book. Sign-up sheet is at the Connection Table for this Monday evening class!

Men’s Donuts and Devotional is Saturday, February 9th, 7:00 am at the church. This is free to all our men. Male friends are welcome, too!

The next Adult Connection outing is a live mystery show and dinner at the Lion’s Community Center in New Lenox. Cost is $30 per person. Deadline for paying and signing up for the February 9th event is February 1. Michelle Grifford can answer your questions if you need more info.

Newcomer’s Dessert is Friday, February 22 at 6:30pm at the Knott’s home in Manhattan. Sign up for this free adults only gathering at the Connection Table.

Thanks to all who completed the “Family Census” email these past two weeks. If you did not receive one, contact Larry DeSando at Larry@therevolutionchurch.org . If you do not use email, speak to him at church to be sure you are not omitted by mistake.

Remember to pick up your Giving Statement from the Connection Table as you will need it when you do your taxes.

We are once again collecting magazines to be shared with the men and women in the Joliet jail. Leave these at the Graybars Project table. We have several birthday cards there if you wish to sign for the inmates and brighten their days. Keep in mind that any splashes, stains or food smears will cause the magazines and those cards to be rejected at the correctional facilities. For this reason, let’s keep that table free of your snacks and beverages.

We want to see all of you back with us next Sunday at 10 am. Have a blessed week!

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January 27, 2019:

Welcome back, friends!

Oh. My. Goodness. What a brutal winter weather week we slogged through, and more snow is on the way later today! We appreciate those who bundled up and braved the Arctic blasts to come worship. We were thrilled to see Bob Brown make his first appearance since having a stroke a couple months ago. He is in a wheelchair, but is working hard in rehab and getting stronger. He greeted the congregation and prayed a blessing over us.

This morning after we shared in Communion Pastor Billy continued his series, “Flip the Script” with a message called, “Paul…Blinded By the Light”. The main text was from 1 Timothy 1:12-16 and Acts 9. Today’s music was “I’ll Fly Away”, “Love the Lord”, “Give Us Clean Hands”, “How Great Is Our God”, the classic “How Great Thou Art” and “Oh, How I Love Jesus/Thank You Lord”.

Our yearly church business meeting was held after service and all members were invited to attend. 2019 budget and hierarchy of ministry leaders was presented by Pastor Billy. Larry DeSando shared information about the role of deacons and how that effects us. Pastor Bob spoke to us about possibilities for evangelism and opportunities to physically serve. Elder Tom Wozny presented background on the International Missions Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. Secret ballot vote determined that the church’s tithe will now be paid to them.

Men’s Donuts and Devotional is Saturday, February 9th, 7:00 am at the church. This is free to all our men. Male friends are welcome, too!

Senior Ministry Valentine Luncheon is Wednesday, February 13 at noon at the church. There is a sign-up sheet at the Connection Table if you want to come out for good food and some fun!

Thanks to all who completed the “Family Census” email this week. If you did not receive one , contact Larry DeSando at Larry@therevolutionchurch.org . If you do not use email, speak to him at church to be sure you are not omitted by mistake.

Remember to pick up your Giving Statement from the Connection Table as you will need it when you do your taxes.

Today is Justice Petersen’s birthday! Joe and Tim Meskin celebrated their birthdays this month! Donna Windberg’s birthday is next Sunday, so give her some extra loving when you see her.

Weatherman says we can expect actual temps of -20 degrees or worse by Wednesday, so check on each other often, and stay warm and safe. God bless and keep you until we are together again next week!

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January 20, 2019:

Welcome back, friends! Yesterday we feared we might have to ride snowmobiles to get here, but many of you mustered courage and drove in for service in spite of the bitter cold. It’s mornings like these that we are so thankful for the hospitality team volunteers who make sure there are steaming cups of tea and coffee to warm us!

This morning Pastor Billy continued his series, “Flip the Script” with a message called, “Peter…Restored“. Text was from John 21:15-19. Today’s music was “Revival”, “I Have Decided To Follow Jesus”, “Only Grace”, and “One Thing Remains”.

Larry DeSando explained that we will be receiving a “family census” form via email that we need to complete. If this church doesn’t have your email or you do not receive your census, please send your email address to Larry@therevolutionchurch.org so we do not miss you.

Welcome our newest members: Debbie Dobias, Kathy Felchlin, Teresa Page, and sisters Diane McCullough & Linda Delost!

Volunteer Dessert at the church was Friday night, and we were happy so many of you could come fellowship and enjoy snacks before the snow started falling.

Our yearly church business meeting will be after service Sunday, January 27th. We will discuss the 2019 budget, building project, vision, and various other items. If you are a church member, you are welcome to attend.

Pastor Billy will be teaching an intensive five-week class called “Comparative Religions” beginning Tues, January 29th at the church. You will compare and contrast various cults and world religions to Christianity. Sign up at the Connection Table.

“Experiencing God” at the Lee home in Frankfort has been postponed until mid-February. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen to inquire about a $16 book. Sign-up sheet is at the Connection Table for this Monday evening class!

Men’s Donuts and Devotional is Saturday, Feb. 9 at 7:00 am here at the church. This is free and should be done within an hour.

Senior Ministry Valentine Lunch is at the church on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at noon. If you are 55+, you are invited. Sign up at the Connection Table.

The next Adult Connection outing is a live mystery show and dinner at the Lion’s Community Center in New Lenox at 6:30 pm, Saturday, Feb. 9. Cost is $30 per person. Deadline for paying and signing up is February 1. Michelle Grifford can answer your questions if you need more info.

Men, save the date for April 27th! “Iron Sharpens Iron” is attending their first men’s conference in Wheaton, Il. Ages 13+ can attend. Listen and watch for more info as the date draws closer. Pastor Bob can give more info.

Welcome back to Illinois, Harvey Ferguson and Pat Baker. They are visiting from Memphis and will be in the area til near the end of January, so enjoy their company while you can.

Happy birthday to Cynthia Petersen, Madison DesLaurier, Madilyn Leatherman, and Erin Van Kuiken! This is also the birthday of Revolution Church! We are now FIVE years old! Woo-Hoo!

Tip of the cap and highest respect to our drummer, Mikey Nordsell, who just celebrated one year clean and sober! Pastor Billy said, “Here! Have a drink on me!” and presented him with a congratulatory jug of chocolate milk. Feel free to bring him chocolate milk any Sunday as the guy loves that stuff. YAY, MIKEY!

After church we held our monthly prayer meeting with those who wished to stay. After that, some of our folk with muscles and good hearts went to Bob and Rita Brown’s home to shovel snow from their driveway since Bob is still recovering from a stroke.

Sending love and good wishes to Durk and Linda Lee who have been terribly ill for three weeks. You are missed!

See you next week when Pastor Billy continues his series with teaching about Paul and how God “flipped his script”. Remember to pick up your Giving Statements from the Connection Table, for the Tax Man cometh!

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January 13, 2019:

Welcome back, friends! We know some of the side streets were still unplowed, but we appreciated you braving the snow and coming out to worship!

This morning Pastor Billy began his newest series, “Flip the Script” with a message called, “David – A Man After God’s Own Heart“. Text was from 2 Samuel 11:1-26 and Lamentations 3:21-23 . Today’s music was “I Saw the Light”, “Words I Would Say”, “Eye of the Storm”, “No Longer Slaves”, and “Amazing Grace”.

Gene O’Brien shared briefly about his volunteer service replacing roofs destroyed by hurricane winds in Mexico Beach, Florida with Franklin Graham’s organization, Samaritan’s Purse. Gene is such a good soul, always finding ways to be a helper when there is a need.

Exploring Membership Class was after church. Childcare and light lunch was provided. Thank you to those who volunteered to serve food and help with the kids.

Senior Ministry’s White Elephant Luncheon last Wednesday sure was fun! Nearly 30 folks enjoyed chili, baked potatoes with all the fixings, and dessert. Gifts were all over the road from home décor items to thermometers, books, and even oysters! Thanks to all who cooked, and special appreciation to Judy Fash for decorating each table so uniquely and festively!

Thank you to the folks who came in Friday to clear the holiday decor from the sanctuary. It surely was beautiful while it lasted! Thank you, Tom Wozny, for outstanding efforts with the magnificent tree again this year!

Men’s Donuts and Devotional was at the church yesterday with 17 men attending in spite of snow falling. Thank you, Tom Williamson for giving the devotional!

If you have volunteered at this church in 2018, you are invited to a Volunteer Dessert at the church January 18 at 7 pm. This is free! Your family is welcome, but note there is NO CHILDCARE, so plan accordingly!

“Experiencing God” at the Lee home in Frankfort has been postponed until mid-February. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen to inquire about a book. Watch for a sign-up sheet!

The next Adult Connection outing is a live mystery show and dinner at the Lion’s Community Center in New Lenox. Cost is $30 per person. Deadline for paying and signing up is February 1. Michelle Grifford can answer your questions if you need more info.

We are so happy to report Bob Brown was discharged from the hospital to home last week. Prayers for wife, Rita, to have strength to do all that will need doing while he recovers.

Special prayers for Greg and Debbie Struck as Greg’s mother passed away. Services were private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested a donation to her favorite dog rescue. They can give you more info on that.

See you next week!

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January 6, 2019:

Good morning, and Happy 2019, friends!

This morning Pastor Billy took his traditional New Year’s breather and Pastor Bob Smith stepped to the pulpit with a message called, “Who Are You?“ Text was from Genesis 1:26-27 and Colossians 2:9-10. Today’s music was “Hello, My Name Is”, “All My Hope Is In Jesus”, “In the Garden”, and “You Never Let Go”.

Pastor Julian officiated a bilingual baby dedication for little Zoelle, daughter of Rashaad and Jessica Gibbs. We are happy so many of their family were able to attend the ceremony. Welcome, and come visit again any time!

Senior Ministry is hosting a White Elephant Luncheon at the church at noon on Wednesday, January 9th! There is a sign-up sheet for the meal which will feature chili and baked potatoes and all the fixings. This will be a perfect opportunity to regift some of the junk you got for Christmas! See Rita Brown for more info if you are 55+!

Men’s Donuts and Devotional will be at the church on Saturday, January 12, 7 am. This is free. Invite every man you know! It is expected to last less than an hour to get you home in time to tackle your “honey-do list”!

Exploring Membership Class is after church on Sunday, January 13. Childcare and light lunch will be provided, so you must sign up at the Connection Table or RSVP with one of the pastors so we know you are coming.

Ladies, “It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way”, a new Tuesday evening study, begins January 22, 6:30 pm. TODAY was the final opportunity to sign up at the Connection Table. Cost is $24. Penny Knott can answer your questions.

“Experiencing God” will be taught Mondays at 6:30 pm at the Lee home in Frankfort beginning January 21. Contact Blaine and Cynthia Petersen to sign up and to inquire about a book.

Happy Birthday, Vivian Meskin! Happy Birthday to Jason Hippenhammer and his beard! Congratulations to Bruce Smit whose bullying story about forgiveness was featured in the Chicago Tribune this week! (Remember, if you would like your anniversary, birthday, or special accomplishments shared here, give the info to the piano player a week prior. We would never want to leave out anybody!)

We are so happy to report Bob Brown is expected to be discharged from the hospital to home on Friday. Prayers for wife, Rita, to have strength to do all that will need doing while he recovers. Also, keep Lisa Jasinski in your prayers as she is caring for her husband who was injured in a car accident.

Special prayers and love going out to Greg and Debbie Struck as Greg’s mother is in hospice at Palos Hospital and near the end of her journey. If you are in the area, it seems visits are appreciated.

Join us next Sunday as Pastor Billy kicks off his January series called “Flip the Script”, all about second chances –something we all have needed at one time or another.

Happy New Year!

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December 30, 2018:

Hello, Folks!

If you are reading this page, that means you have survived Christmas! We hope all of you have full tummies, full hearts, and got some much needed relaxation and rest!

Our Christmas Eve candlelight service was a blessed evening, and we thank all who ventured out to come and worship. The Larry DeSando Family lit the final candle of Advent, the Christ Candle. Penny Knott opened with prayer and scripture reading, and Pastor Billy presented the gospel. The night’s music was Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s version of “Carol of the Bells”, “Christmas Hallelujah”, “What Child Is This”, “Silent Night”, and “O Holy Night”. Visitors, we were pleased to have you. Please do not wait til Easter to come again.

This morning, the 5th Sunday of the month, was Family Sunday when our children stayed in the sanctuary and our children’s workers also were able to stay in the service with us. Pastor Billy continued his series, “Is There Anyone Who Knows What Christmas Is All About?” with his message, “The Cradle and the Cross”. Text was from Luke 2:21-35. Today’s music was “Carol of the Bells” instrumental, “Jesus Messiah”, “We Fall Down”, “10,000 Reasons”, and “Glory In the Highest”. We ushered out 2018 by sharing in Communion and having churchwide prayer meeting afterward.

Did you get the opportunity to peek into the children’s area? You will notice a huge and colorful difference the next time you walk down that hall. We also now have fold out baby changing tables in both men and women’s restrooms. Thank you, Lakeda Vaughn for sewing and hanging the new curtains!

When you are at the coffee table, step to the left and read all the Christmas greetings our Graybars Project inmates wrote to our church. These men and women have truly appreciated the pen-pal letters, and birthday / holiday cards many of you have signed. They did their best to return some love.

Men’s Donuts and Devotional will be at the church on Saturday, January 12, 7 am. This is free. Invite every man you know!

Exploring Membership Class is after church on Sunday, January 13. Childcare and light lunch will be provided, so you must sign up at the Connection Table.

Ladies, “It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way”, a new Tuesday evening study begins January 22, 6:30 pm. Sign up at the Connection Table. Cost is $24. Next Sunday is the deadline to join this group. Penny Knott can answer your questions.

Today is Mishel Rych’s birthday, and we surprised her by singing when she stepped up to do announcements! Saturday is Sue Mulder’s birthday, and Jason Hippenhammer celebrates his on the 6th! Tommy Naughton is also blowing out birthday candles this week! (Remember, if you would like your anniversary, birthday, or special accomplishments mentioned here, give the info to the piano player a week prior. We would never want to leave out anybody!)

Remember that Tuesday is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one. Happy New Year!

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December 23, 2018:

Hello, Folks! Today was our annual Ugly Sweater Sunday, and you did not disappoint! We can tell some of you put a lot of effort and thought into the monstrosities you sported today. There was a lot of laughter, and we thank you for being good sports and participating. Post your photos on Face Book so we all can enjoy!

Pastor Billy continued his series, “Is There Anyone Who Knows What Christmas Is All About?” with his message, “Nazareth to Bethlehem ”. Text was from Luke 2:1-7, Matthew 1: 18-21, and Micah 5:2. The Meskin family read and lit the fourth candle of Advent, the Candle of Love.

Today’s songs were: “Feliz Navidad”, “Joy Unspeakable Joy”, “I Celebrate the Day”, “Mary Did you Know” and “O Holy Night”.

Did you get the opportunity to peek into the children’s area? Pastor and a professional painter have been hustling many long days to finish this remodeling project. You will notice a huge and colorful difference the next time you walk down that hall. We also now have fold out baby changing tables in both men and women’s restrooms. Thank you, Lakeda Vaughn for sewing and hanging the new curtains!

Invite family and friends to our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, tomorrow, Dec. 24, 5:00 pm. This service is entirely different than our Sunday service. Please help us share the church’s post on your Face Book pages. We can reach so many more people this way. There were also paper invites we provided in your bulletin to share with friends. Do not let even one of these go to waste.

Men’s Donuts and Devotional will be at the church on Saturday, January 12, 7 am. This is free. Invite every man you know!

Exploring Membership Class is after church on Sunday, January 13. Childcare and light lunch will be provided, so you must sign up at the Connection Table.

Ladies, “It’s Not Supposed To Be This Way”, a new Tuesday evening study begins January 22, 6:30 pm. Sign up at the Connection Table. Cost is $24. Penny Knott can answer your questions.

Our Bob Brown is still in rehab following a stroke. Janet Bernstrom is now home after total knee replacement, so let's keep both of them in our prayers.

Happy 6th Birthday to our sweet little Reagan Hippenhammer! Happy 13th to Lainey Nordsell, daughter of our drummer, Mikey! Happy Birthday, Ken Poort! Dec. 30th is Mishel Rych’s birthday!

Have a blessed and peaceful holiday week. Merry Christmas!

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December 16, 2018:

Hello, Folks! Welcome to Revolution Church! Pardon our mess. Our children’s area is in the middle of renovation and painting, and should be finished before next Sunday. You will notice a huge and colorful difference the next time you walk to the restrooms and kitchen.

Today’s songs were: “Glorious One”, “It Is You ”, “Do You Hear What I Hear”, “Joy Unspeakable Joy” and “He Is Lord”.

Pastor Billy continued his series, “Is There Anyone Who Knows What Christmas Is All About?” with his message, “Against All Odds ”. Text was from Luke 1:39-41. The Hippenhammer family read Luke 2: 10-11 and lit the third candle of Advent, the Candle of Joy.

Our Children’s Christmas program “BEHOLD—THE CHRISTMAS STORY” was held here Friday evening, and we had a full house! The play began at 7 pm, but those who came early enjoyed free hot chocolate, Christmas cookies baked by many of our members, and the Ozinga “Merry Mixer” light and music truck. A huge basket of snacks, movie passes, gift card, and other treats was won by the Dombrowskis’ daughter during the prize drawing. Standing ovation to the cast and crew and all the volunteers who put in weeks of effort to make this a successful gift to our community! Thank you to the Sandovals for leading!

Ugly Sweater Sunday is December 23, so start searching early for your gaudiest sweater, dress, hat, scarf, or vest, and let’s get creative and have fun with this annual event.

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. Please help us share the church’s post on your Face Book pages. We can reach so many more people this way. There are also paper invites we provided in your bulletin to share with friends.

Thanks to your generosity, Graybars Project has been overwhelmed by the number of paperbacks and magazines donated for inmates. You have enabled us to also bless nursing home and homeless shelter residents with coloring books and reading materials. Next Sunday is the last day we will collect for a while so as not to overwhelm the facilities.

Our Bob Brown is now making progress in rehab after suffering a stroke a couple weeks ago. We miss you, Bob! Hurry back to us, friend!

It was a happy surprise to look up and see Sue Mulder walk in the door all the way from Arizona! We still miss you, Sue! Madison DesLaurier is on winter break from Blackburn College and also popped in to surprise us.

Happy Birthday to our bass player, Phil Graniczny on Friday! (Get well wishes are also going out to him.) Happy Birthday to camera guy, Bruce Smit on the 23rd!

Congratulations and best wishes to Tom Williamson for landing a new fulltime position as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant at a facility in Ottawa! He begins Monday! YAY!

Have a blessed week. See you Sunday in your ugly sweater!

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December 9, 2018:

Hello, Folks! Thank you for visiting this page. Here’s what’s up with our church this week:

Today’s songs were: “Go Tell It On the Mountain”, “Open Up the Heavens”, “O Come All Ye Faithful”, “God With Us”, and “We Believe”. Lenny the Therapy Dog made a surprise visit, and received lots of pats and scratches from dog lovers.

Pastor Billy began his new series, “Is There Anyone Who Knows What Christmas Is All About?” with his message, ”Expect the Unexpected”. Text was from Luke 1:26-28 and Genesis 3:15. Last week Lakeda Vaughn and Trinity lit out first candle of Advent, the Candle of Hope. Today Jan Golden, along with Destiny and Diamond Torres read Isaiah 9:6 and lit the second candle, the Candle of Peace.

We gave a round of applause to four men who totally gave up their Saturday to rewire the whole church. With all the juice the giant Christmas tree was pulling, we were blowing fuses left and right, so that was all remedied with the rewiring. Huge thanks to Phil Grifford, Greg Fash, Larry DeSando, and Darren Rych for a job well done! It was great to have the tree, hot coffee, and music all at the same time!

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 signed up to provide cookies for this event, you must have them at the church no later than 5:30 pm. Be sure to pass out the paper invites the church provided. More than 20 people have sewed, built, or somehow contributed to this production! A huge basket of snacks, movie passes, gift card, and other treats will be given to one of you who attends Friday night!

Ugly Sweater Sunday is December 23, so start searching early for your gaudiest sweater, dress, hat, scarf, or vest, and let’s get creative and have fun with this annual event.

Thanks to your generosity, Graybars Project made their third delivery of paperbacks and magazines to Will County Jail. There were so many items this month we were able to also share with the residents of Frankfort Terrace nursing home and the Daybreak Shelter in Joliet! Applause for Lauren Gross for gathering CASES of books in spite of being quadriplegic and on a vent. Huge thanks for Charlie Printy and Bruce Smit for hauling books!

Get well wishes and much love is going out to our Bob Brown who has had a tough week in Silver Cross Hospital after suffering a stroke. Rita was back with us today and says rehab is his next step. We miss you, Bob! Hurry back to us, friend!

Condolences to Tom and Pat Wozny on the death of his mother this week. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 12 at noon at Kerr-Parzygnot Funeral Home with service at 1:30 pm. Lunch follows at Scrementi’s in Steger at 3 pm.

Congratulations to Brenda Hajek for finishing her Associate Degree in Liberal Arts at Joliet Junior College! YAY! She began in 2016 at age 64!

Happy Birthday to Craig Dombrowski! Happy Birthday in Memphis to Harvey Ferguson!

Have a blessed week. See you at the play Friday night!

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December 2, 2018:

Hello, Folks!

Wasn’t the church Christmas tree gorgeous all lit up? Kudos to Tom Wozny for his hours of devotion to make it so grand! We thank the Decorating Team for making the place festive inside and out. Enjoy the cross manger scene and the tree for some family holiday photos if you wish.

Today’s songs were: “Let the Praises Ring”, “He Reigns”, “Angels We Have heard On High”, “God of Wonders”, “How Great Is Our God”, and “How Great Thou Art”.

Pastor Billy continued his series, “We Are Family” with his message,”The Greatest Generation”. Text was from Philippians 2:1-4. We also enjoyed seeing on the big screen photos of some of our oldest couples when they were in the earliest days of their relationships. You can see this message Monday afternoon by clicking WATCH on our Home Page.

Saturday was the Women’s Merry Mixer Christmas event here at Revolution! There were eleven gorgeous, themed tables each decorated by a hostess. Numerous nice prizes were awarded and a delicious meal prepared by Tom Wozny was served by several of our men. Larry and Eileen DeSando portrayed Mary and Joseph and presented the gospel to the guests. There were several new people present. Thank you to each person who devoted time, treasure, and talent to make this luncheon a success!

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.

Friendly reminder for those donating magazines to the Will County Jail. Address labels MUST be removed per jail policy. If you bag them up before leaving at the Graybars Project table, it will make it much easier to load them for delivery after service! Thanks for sharing!

Happy Birthday to Jan Dombrowski! For her birthday she is requesting donations to Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization (HERO). Information about this local organization can be found on the Connection Table.

Have a blessed week. See you back in church next Sunday!

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