Hope Notes 11-27-2005

Dear Friends of Hope ~

 

Don't we really have so much to be thankful for?  May we pay special attention to and "count our every blessing" as we begin this week leading up to Thanksgiving. 

 

Hope is having a very special THANKSGIVING PRAISE SERVICE this Sunday.  Plan to come early (10:30) to enjoy the delicious hot breakfast prepared by our Hospitality Team and to fellowship with each other.  Then, be prepared to be blessed by our time of worship, testimonies, and a time to reflect on the power of thankfulness.

 

WEBSITE NEWS

Asher, our "webmaster" has asked that people write out their testimony for our website and email it to him at ashermaximum@gmail.com or webmaster@hopechristianfellowship.org.  This will be a good evangelism tool and it will also help people to get a better feel for who we at Hope are.

 

CHRISTMAS DAY CHOIR

This is open to men and women Sr. High and up.  A sign-up will be out on 11/27 for anyone who is interested.  Practices will be at Pastor Mark's house on 12/11 and 12/18 at 7:00.  There is no babysitter, but if you need to bring your children, they can play in the basement while we practice.  We're aiming for two songs to sing on Christmas morning.  It will also involve getting to church early on Christmas day, so plan ahead for that!

 

LAUREN'S CHRISTMAS GIFT

We want to remember our missionary in Guatemala, Lauren Pupchick at Christmas.  Every week in November, we will have envelopes for giving to Lauren.  This will not be "support", but a direct gift to her! Simply put your gift in the envelope and drop it into the offering box.   We need to encourage those who serve the kingdom by leaving their homes to spread the Good News.  Lauren will be with us on December 4th, so we can tell her in person that we are praying for her, and that we are proud of her and her ministry!

 

IMMEDIATE NEED - PART TIME BABYSITTER

Kevin & Beth Hess need someone to watch their children at home while they are at work.  This is expected to be two evenings a week (from about 5:00 - 10:00 pm).  There is a possibility of occasional need at other times, also.  If anyone is looking for some extra income and would be willing to help, please contact them right away.  Phone 848-9432.  Email our3sons3@verizon.net.   Thank you!

 

MONTHLY BIBLE READING

Pastor Mark has designated the book of 1st John  as a suggested reading for us to do together during the month of November.  Since it is a short letter, we should try to read it all the way through at one sitting, or we could split it up over the month.  Here's a verse to whet your appetite:  "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God."  1 John 3:1

 

And let's not forget these opportunities to fellowship with one another:

 

CARE GROUPS

Care groups meet this weekend. We currently have two groups meeting on Sunday and one on Friday.  If you are not yet involved in a care group, If me encourage you to do so.  There is a sheet on the table at church that tells the locations and night for each care group.  Pick one up and plug in!

 

LADIES CHRISTMAS FELLOWSHIP & COOKIE EXCHANGE

Mark you calendars for December 8th at Dana Ott's house.  More details coming soon.

 

ADULT CHRISTMAS PARTY (Sr High & Up) coming up on December 16th. We will be having a catered dinner at a hall in Bellmawr.  The party starts at 6:30 and will go until 10:30 pm with dinner being served at 7:00.  We'll have some fun and games, too!  We're making the party open to everyone by only asking for a donation from those who can give one (suggested donation $17/person).  If you can't afford this, please come anyway - that's the very reason we set it up like this!  Don't miss this time to celebrate the season with our spiritual family.

 

ATTENTION ALL YOUTH (grades 6 - 12)!! 

 

GIRLS OF HOPE BIBLE STUDY HAS BEGUN !!

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:15 at Lois Hartwell's house (629-9572).  For girls in 6th thru 12th grade.  We are studying the book of Philippians.  This is a great place to get to know God's Word and each other better.  Come join us!

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

"Becoming a Contagious Christian"  This is an awesome study you definitely don't want to miss!  Witnessing doesn't have to be scary.  Based on Matthew 5, this study helps you find your own personal style of evangelism.  You learn how to share your faith in a way that is normal, natural, regular and effective.  God created you a certain way to reach certain people.  Through this study you will learn how to be aware of the witnessing opportunities God puts in front of you and know that you are prepared to share.  We meet here at Hope from 7:00 - 8:30.  Childcare is provided.

 

ITEMS NEEDED

Our Children's Ministry is still in need of juice boxes.  The children greatly appreciate your donations!

 

DIRECTORY UPDATE

Our church directory is being updated.  Please fill out an information sheet on the side table if you would like to be included.  Our goal is to have the updated directory by the end of November.

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY SETS GOAL

Our goal is to have enough workers so that everyone need only teach once or twice per quarter!  Help us to attain our goal by volunteering to work with Infants, Toddlers, Pre-School, and right on up through 6th grade.  See Debbie Bradshaw or LaTosha Briggs.

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS ARE:

KID'S CORNER                    GREETERS             HOSPITALITY

June Elliot         ( CT )               Pat & Joan Roselli                Carole Baumeister

Erin Sweeney     Helper                                                         Karen Blythe

As scheduled     (T)         

As scheduled     ( I )

 

Don't forget our Thanksgiving Praise Service this Sunday with fellowship and breakfast at 10:30.

 

Next Sunday, Pastor Mark begins a series called "The Gifts of Christmas".  Not the gifts you find under your tree, but the gifts of the heart that come from our Lord.  Pastor Mark will be looking first at Hope, then Joy, Peace, Love, and Life.  Be sure to invite anyone you know who is looking for real satisfaction during the busy holiday season to come attend a service.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

• From Lorraine Otis - My friend's 18 year old daughter, Angela Ionno, who left home with people of bad influence.
• From Patti Chico - Carol Fuoco is doing well and is cancer free.  Pray for Helen Hawco (42), who is diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Help us to remember to pray, Lord.  Not just for these specific requests, but "in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Ph 4:6

 

Serving Him,

Lois

Hope Notes 11-10-2005

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

 

We have lots of chances to be faithful servants this month.  Let us take these opportunities and really be "Jesus" to, not only our church family, but to the family of God across the earth.

 

FOOD SHOWER

Hope is throwing a "Food Shower" for Brian and Gretchen Milks.  They are in a difficult situation right now and their cupboard is bare!  Let's restock it for them!  You can bring  food or household items, or perhaps a gift certificate to a food store.  Bring your donations with you to church this Sunday (Nov 13th).  We want to show our care and concern for them, and to encourage them as they seek God's direction for their lives.

 

LAUREN'S CHRISTMAS GIFT

We want to remember our missionary in Guatemala, Lauren Pupchick at Christmas.  Every week in November, we will have envelopes for giving to Lauren.  This will not be "support", but a direct gift to her!  Simply put your gift (even just a small gift) in the envelope and drop it into the offering box.   We need to encourage those who serve the kingdom by leaving their homes to spread the Good News.  Lauren will be with us on December 4th, so we can tell her in person that we are praying for her, and that we are proud of her and her ministry!

 

"ROOF RAISING" FOR ED YOST

We will be helping Ed Yost put a new roof on his home Saturday, 11/12 from 8:00 am till around noon or so.  Ed's address is 1837 Good Intent Road, Deptford, NJ.  His phone # is 227-7410.  Lorraine Otis is helping put together a lunch for the workers.  If you would like to help Lorraine, just give her a call at 686-1557 or email her at lorraineotis@comcast.net.

 

DON'T FORGET YOUR SHOEBOXES FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD!!!  Boxes are due in this Sunday November 13th.  See Melissa McGinness with any questions.

 

 MONTHLY BIBLE READING

Pastor Mark has designated the book of 1st John  as a suggested reading for us to do together during the month of November.  Since it is a short letter, we should try to read it all the way through at one sitting, or we could split it up over the month.  Here's a verse to whet your appetite:  "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God."  1 John 3:1

 

And let's not forget these opportunities to fellowship with one another:

 

ADULT VOLLEYBALL (Sr High & Up) THIS FRIDAY, November 11th from

7:00-9:00pm.  Meet us at the Five Points Community Volleyball Center on Route 41 in Deptford (just north of Five Points Diner).  We're looking forward to a great time of fun.  There is NO COST involved.  You don't have to pay to come and fellowship! 

 

ADULT CHRISTMAS PARTY (yes- Sr High & Up) coming up on December 16th.  We will be having a catered dinner at a hall in Bellmawr.  The party will start at 6:30 and go until 10:30 pm with dinner at 7:00.  We'll have some fun and games too!  We're making the party open to everyone by only asking for a donation from those who can give one (suggested donation is $17 per person).  If you can't afford this donation, please come anyway - that's the very reason we set it up like this!  Don't miss this time to celebrate the season with our spiritual family.

 

ATTENTION ALL YOUTH (grades 6 - 12)!! 

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH   Come to Pastor Mark and Dana's house after church for some ultimate frisbee and/or flag football.  We'll have pizza and soda, then.......the game is on!  Approximate times 2:00 - 5:00.

 

GIRLS OF HOPE BIBLE STUDY HAS BEGUN !!

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:15 at Lois Hartwell's house (629-9572).  For girls in 6th thru 12th grade.  We've started meeting and it has been great!  We had lots of fun getting to know each other, brainstorming ideas, and setting up our study. We will be in the book of Philippians.  Come join us and find out the strange facts we learned about each other!

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

"Becoming a Contagious Christian" began this past Wednesday. Praise God we had quite a crowd!  This is an awesome study you definitely don't want to miss out on!  Witnessing doesn't have to be scary.  Based on Matthew 5, this study will help you to find your own personal style of evangelism.  You will learn how to share your faith in a way that is normal, natural, regular and effective.  God created you a certain way to reach certain people.  Through this study you can learn how to be aware of the witnessing opportunities God puts in front of you and know that you are prepared to share.  We meet here at Hope from 7:00 - 8:30.  Childcare is provided.

 

ITEMS NEEDED

Our Children's Ministry is in need of juice boxes, animal crackers, & pretzels.  We would appreciate contributions.

 

DIRECTORY UPDATE

Our church directory is being updated.  Please fill out an information sheet on the side table if you would like to be included.  Our goal is to have the updated directory by the end of November.

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS ARE:

KID'S CORNER                    GREETERS             HOSPITALITY

Mike Elliot         ( CT )               Pat & Joan Roselli                 Dana Ott          

Rachel Goeggel   Helper                                                          Naidona Ott

As scheduled     (T)         

As scheduled     ( I )

 

This Sunday is Communion Sunday - "What is Precious to God?"  This is always a very special service as we celebrate the Lord's Supper together.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

• For Hope's finances as we look to bring Pastor Mark on full time and find a permanent location for Hope Christian Fellowship.

Help us to remember to pray, Lord.  Not just for these specific requests, but "in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Ph 4:6

 

Serving Him,

Lois

Special Needs

Hi everyone!

 

Wasn't yesterday a wonderful time to sense the power of God at work among us?  It is so refreshing to hear and see how the Lord is touching hearts and changing lives.

 

I needed to bring two special needs to everyone's attention - one new one and one that we've already announced:

 

First, Hope is throwing a "Food Shower" for Brian and Gretchen Milks.  They are in a very difficult situation right now, and I believe God would have us to reach out and help meet this need.  Their cupboard is "bare" and we need to restock it!  You can bring food items or household goods - or you could get some gift cards from a grocery store for them.  In any case, bring your donations on Wednesday night or next Sunday (with your Operation Christmas Child boxes!).  I know this will be an outpouring of caring and concern for this family and will encourage them as they seek God's direction for their lives and their soon to be born baby!

 

Second, several men have seen me about this Saturday's workday.  Lorraine Otis is helping by getting a lunch together for the crew.  If you want to help with lunch, give Lorraine a call (686-1557) or email her at lorraineotis@comcast.net.  Ed Yost's address is 1837 Good Intent Road, Deptford, NJ 08096.  His phone is 227-7410.  If you want to help and haven't told me personally, please call me (881-4766) or email me (reply to this message) and let me know that you're coming.  As long as the weather cooperates, we'll have a great time together and a great chance to encourage and help this family in preparing for the coming winter!

 

Thanks everyone - don't forget about Contagious Christian training starting Wednesday night (7pm at firehall)

 

Pastor Mark

Hope Notes 11-3-2005

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

 

This is one of those times of year when I am so aware of God's design for creation.  Look at the way He designed the trees so that their leaves change color and give us a beautiful show every autumn!  Be sure to take some time every day to notice God in the world around you.

 

Pastor Mark has a few "projects" for us as a church this November:

 

LAUREN'S CHRISTMAS GIFT

We want to remember our missionary in Guatemala, Lauren Pupchick at Christmas.  Every week in November, we will have envelopes for giving to Lauren.  This will not be "support", but a direct gift to her! Simply put your gift in the envelope and drop it into the offering box.   We need to encourage those who serve the kingdom by leaving their homes to spread the Good News.  This is a simple way to show her that we care, that we're behind her, that we remember her and are praying for her.  It also gives us a chance to tell her how proud we are of her and her ministry!

 

MONTHLY BIBLE READING

Pastor Mark has designated the book of 1st John  as a suggested reading for us to do together during the month of November.  Since it is a short letter, we should try to read it all the way through at one sitting, or we could split it up over the month.  Here's a verse to whet your appetite:  "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God."  1 John 3:1

 

"ROOF RAISING" FOR ED YOST

We will be helping Ed Yost put a new roof on his home Saturday, 11/12 from 8:00 am till around noon or so.  Any men who signed up please contact Pastor Mark by responding to this email or seeing him on Sunday (the original sign up list is M.I.A.).  Ladies, let's get cookin' so we can feed these hungry servants! 

 

The deadline for OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD is almost here.  We have pamphlets on the side table with details and instructions.  Basically, you fill a shoebox with goodies for a boy or girl, wrap it up, and bring it to Hope no later than Sunday, November 13th.  See Melissa McGinness with any questions

 

ADULT FELLOWSHIP at Brian & Naidona Ott's home (Sr High & Up)is THIS SATURDAY, 11/5.   We plan to start this evening of fellowship with a HAYRIDE!  We will meet at "The Rock" camp on Delsea Dr. in Franklinville at 4:30.  Cost is $6 per person.  After wards, we will head over to Brain & Naidona's for a time of fellowship and fun (probably some good snacks, too!).  Please plan to bring a dessert or snack to share.  If you can't make the hayride, just come on over to the Ott's from 6:30 - 8:00.

 

ADULT VOLLEYBALL (Sr High & Up) November 11th from 7-9:00pm.  We are going to the Five Points Volleyball center.  Join us for a night of games and "athleticism".  There is NO COST involved so come and fellowship! 

 

ADULT CHRISTMAS PARTY (yes- Sr High & Up) coming up on December 16th.  There is a signup available for those who are planning to attend.  There is a suggested donation of $17 per person to offset the cost of catering.  We made it a donation so that everyone can come whether they have the money or not!  The night will begin at 6:30 pm with the dinner at 7:00 pm.  Then we'll party until 10:30 and enjoy the season with our spiritual family.  You won't want to miss out on this great night in the holiday season!

 

ATTENTION ALL YOUTH (grades 6 - 12)!! 

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH   Come to Pastor Mark and Dana's house after church for some ultimate frisbee and/or flag football.  We'll have pizza and soda, then.......the game is on!  Approximate times 2:00 - 5:00.

 

GIRLS OF HOPE BIBLE STUDY HAS BEGUN !!

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:15 at Lois Hartwell's house (629-9572).  For girls in 6th thru 12th grade.  We had our first meeting and it was great!  We had lots of fun getting to know each other, brainstorming ideas, and setting up our study. We will be in the book of Philippians.  Come join us and find out the strange facts we learned about each other!

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

"Becoming a Contagious Christian" begins next Wednesday. Witnessing doesn't have to be scary!  Based on Matthew 5, this study will help you to find your own personal style of evangelism.  You will learn how to share your faith in a way that it normal, natural, regular and effective.  God created you a certain way to reach certain people.  Through this study you can learn how to be aware of the witnessing opportunities God puts in front of you and know that you are prepared to share.  We meet here at Hope from 7:00 - 8:30.  Childcare is provided.

 

ITEMS NEEDED

Our Children's Ministry is in need of juice boxes, animal crackers, & pretzels.  We would appreciate contributions.

 

DIRECTORY UPDATE

Our church directory is being updated.  Please fill out an information sheet on the side table if you would like to be included.  Our goal is to have the updated directory by the end of November.

 

WORKERS NEEDED

We are still in great need of volunteers for our children's ministry. You can help with infants, toddlers, pre-school, and right on up through 6th graders!  If teaching is not your gift, don't worry.  We can always use helpers! 

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS ARE:

KID'S CORNER                    GREETERS             HOSPITALITY

June Elliot         ( CT )                         TBA                           Anita Little

Kylie Ott            Helper                                                         Kathy Berry

Bill McGinness    (T)                                                               

Patti Tomasetti   ( I )

 

 

This Sunday, Pastor Mark takes a look at Core Value #8, RELATIONSHIPS.

 

Don't forget:  Care Groups meet this weekend! 

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

• For Leon Walford's grandson, Zachery, who has been passing out.  The doctor's don't know what is causing this yet.
• For Doleen Pierce - Her landlord wants her entire month's paycheck to pay for rent and back rent or she will be evicted.  Doleen has contacted a lawyer, but still needs prayer for God's guidance - or a cheaper apartment!

Help us to remember to pray, Lord.  Not just for these specific requests, but "in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Ph 4:6

 

Amazed at His creation,

Lois