Hope Notes 02/25/10

Dear Friends of Hope ~

Communion Sunday at Hope is special for more than a few reasons, but here are my top two:  1) It sets aside time to purposely remember exactly what Jesus did for us at Calvary.  I know I don't think about that every day, even though you would think something that momentous would be at the front of my mind constantly.  We need that deliberate focus that Communions Sunday brings.  2) It brings us together as a family; we can gaze around the circle and see the faces of our brothers and sisters in Christ. It renews the love in our hearts for each other and reminds us that we are, indeed, all a part of God's family.

 

SUNDAY SERMON 

2/28 – What Really Bugs You About God? (Acts 19:23-41)

COMMUNION

OK – so this topic is a bit forbidden to discuss.  But that doesn't make it any less real!  We all can find ourselves frustrated with the Lord.   What is it about God and His work that finds a way to get on our nerves?  Maybe we can find some insight into our own feelings by looking into a story where an entire city is completely upset with God and His workers – including Paul!  As we look at what was bugging them, we may well be able to relate it to our own struggle.   We may even find that we've allowed certain desires or designs to stand in the way of seeing God's plan for us and our world as the RIGHT plan and better than our plan!

 

CD'S AVAILABLE

Please remember that Sunday's worship service is available on CD immediately following the service for FREE!  Pick up a copy for yourself or for anyone you would like to share Hope with. Pastor Mark's messages are also available on our website, www.hopechristianfellowship.org. 

 

PRAYER TEAM'S SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We start at 9:15 am in one of the classrooms. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Contact Jim Bradshaw at

spaceheadjim@yahoo.com with any questions.

 

BIBLE READING FOR FEBRUARY – MARK

The Gospel of Mark pictures for us the Son of God in all His power – complete with nineteen miracles – but also paint a very human portrait of the Savior.  We see that Jesus deeply felt human emotions:  disappointment, weariness, wonder, affection.  We also see Jesus as a servant, both of His heavenly Father and of the people around Him.

 

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

New Time 7:00 – 8:15pm

Think the book of Genesis couldn't possibly relate to us and the world in which we live?  Think again!  Genesis means "beginnings" and that's just what this book is about.  It describes a loving God who made all things perfectly, but also tells about the beginning of sin and how it ruined what had been a perfect relationship between God and man.  Isn't that still happening today?  Join us as we continue our study on the book of Genesis. Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

BOWLING NIGHT

Sunday, March 14 

5:00-7:00pm

Brunswick Zone, Deptford NJ

$8.00 per person, includes 2 hours bowling, shoe rental, pizza, soda, and the greatest fellowship money can't buy!

Please sign up on the back table at church.

 

SOFTBALL SIGN UP

Open to Men and Women.

Season starts in Mid April.

Must be 15 years old before the end of the season (Mid-July) to play.

Competitive, 15-Team League. Games played on week nights (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays).

Signup sheet on back table.

Get the old glove and cleats out and join in the fun!

See Lenny Little for details:

 609-634-9132 littlemanlenny@yahoo.com

 

YOUTH GROUP - NEW DAY AND TIME

Our Youth Group (J.U.I.C.E.) will now be meeting on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30

 Note that this coincides with Bible Study.  This is a great mid-week touch point for our youth – a spiritual "shot in the arm" to get them through the week.  Please make every effort to get your kids here; you won't regret it!

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our newest set of study sheets are out; pick one up and get ready to rejoin your Small Group!  Watch for reminders each time a new cycle study sheet is put out.  In addition, you can now go online and print out a study sheet from our website.

 

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

BABY BOTTLES

Please remember to pick up a baby bottle and fill it with your spare change.  Those nickels, dimes, and quarters really add up! 

Choices of the Heart will use every bit of it to help their ministry. The filled bottles should be returned by March 7^th.  See Wendy Devereaux with any questions.

 

HEALTH & WELLNESS AT HOPE

Just a reminder to parents to please not bring your child to church if he/she is sick or if there is an illness running through the family. We know no one likes to miss a Sunday, but for the consideration of others please take every precaution to avoid spreading sickness.  Thank you!

 

HELP NEEDED FOR PRIMARY CLASS

We need of a teacher for the 1^st & 2^nd grade class as well as the 3^rd-5^th grade class.  Helpers are needed for both classes. Please see Anita Little if you would like to help.

 

UTENSILS & SERVING PIECES LOOKING FOR OWNERS

We have a stack of empty containers and serving utensils left over from the Cook Off (and a few other occasions).  Please come and claim your items – they are lonely and want to go home!

 

NEEDS TEAM MEAL MAKERS

The Needs Team is looking to compile a list of those who would be willing to make the occasional meal for families in situations where the delivery of a prepared dinner would be a tremendous blessing.  Just see Lorraine Otis or contact her at lorraineotis@comcast.net or call at 686-1557. You will be contacted to see if you are available when a need arises.  Meals can also be made at anytime as well and put in the pantry freezer. Just see anyone on the Needs Team (Bill Murray, Ken Blythe & Lorraine).

 

 HCF BOOK CLUB

"Healing is a Choice" – Steve Arterburn

This is a wonderful book about the ten choices we can make to find true and deep healing from the wounds of life and the ten lies that stop us from making these choices.  Steve Arterburn also wrote "Every Man's Battle" and is the found of Women of Faith.  He runs New Life Ministries and has touched the lives of countless hurting people.

 

 LAWN SIGNS

Please stop by the back of the church and pick up a lawn sign for you yard. This will be a great way to reach out to people in your neighborhood.  You never know who might be looking for a church home!

 

BUMPER STICKERS

These are a great way for people to be introduced to Hope.  Think of all the people you'll reach as your drive, sit at traffic lights, or even when your car is parked somewhere.  But remember…..you are an "advertisement" for Hope, so watch the road rage! J

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS:

SIGN-IN TABLE:       Denise Brion

LAMB'S MINISTRY:   LaTosha Briggs & Damon Ott (T)

                              Sharon Rainey & Son (I)

                              Kim Lawler & Erin Sweeney (C)

                              Melissa Angel & Emily Tambucci (1^st & 2^nd)

                            Anne Owens & Jess St.Petery (3^rd – 5^th)

GREETERS:             Lillian LaRue & Charlotte Zediker

COUNTERS:            Jeff Toomin & Ken Blythe

CLEANERS:             Charlotte Zediker

TOY CLEANERS:      Ken & Karen Blythe (February)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

CHILD CARE:          Judy Gotshall (Infant – Kindergarten)

                            Kathleen Toomin (1^st – 5^th Grade)

 

 HOPE'S PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, just drop it in the box near the door on Sunday or email Jim Bradshaw during the week at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com. He will get your requests to the team. If you would like your request to appear in the Hope Notes, let Jim know.  If you want to be a part of this ministry, send Jim your email address and he will add your name to the team.  Please remember, anyone is welcome to join us for prayer at 9:15 on Sunday mornings whether they are on the team or not.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Youth Group – For the Lord's direction and guidance.  For our young people to make it a priority to come.

Building – For God to continue opening/closing doors as we seek to establish a permanent home for Hope.

Small Groups - For God to lead and direct people to their various Small Group. For Small Groups to be a powerful spiritual and relational force at Hope.

 

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 

 

Our God is Able,

Lois

foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com

 

 

Note:  If you do not wish to continue receiving Hope Notes, simply reply to this email and I will remove your name from the list. Any correspondence for Hope Notes goes to foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com.

 

 

Faith is a moment by moment decision.  (M.Ott)

                                                                       

 

BBQ & CONCERT

SPECIAL REMINDER

Don't forget that this Saturday, February 20th, is our FREE BBQ & CONCERT with music provided by Compelled & Defined By Grace.  The BBQ starts at 5:00 and the concert begins at 7:00.  Be sure to invite your friends to come and enjoy this fun event!

We still need people to help set up and take down.  We also need more side dishes/desserts. 

Hope to see you there!

Hope Notes 02/18/10

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

This will be a special Sunday as we have Compelled come and lead worship for us.  It's always energizing when God mixes it up a bit and gives us another worship band to enjoy. It will be especially nice for our worship team since they work so hard to bring us our music every week. It will be a nice way for them to get renewed by simply being out there in the audience doing nothing but letting the music wash over them as they sing praises to the Lord!

 

SUNDAY SERMON 

2/21 – God is Calling (Acts 19:8-22)

Have you noticed how compelling your ringtone has become?  A phone rings in church and everyone's attention turns to the sound.  You're in the middle of a deep discussion, and your phone starts vibrating, and you would almost lose your mind to ignore it!   But somehow, when God is calling, we can often find a way to put Him off.  We rationalize or we get distracted with other things in life.  But God is calling you!!  He has amazing things for your life.  And He wants you to get to them!  As we watch Paul in his mission work, we'll see that God was working through Paul to call people to Himself – and what happens around us and in us when God is calling to us.

 

CD'S AVAILABLE

Please remember that Sunday's worship service is available on CD immediately following the service for FREE!  Pick up a copy for yourself or for anyone you would like to share Hope with. Pastor Mark's messages are also available on our website, www.hopechristianfellowship.org. 

 

PRAYER TEAM'S SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We start at 9:15 am in one of the classrooms. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Contact Jim Bradshaw at

spaceheadjim@yahoo.com with any questions.

 

BIBLE READING FOR FEBRUARY – MARK

The Gospel of Mark pictures for us the Son of God in all His power – complete with nineteen miracles – but also paint a very human portrait of the Savior.  We see that Jesus deeply felt human emotions:  disappointment, weariness, wonder, affection.  We also see Jesus as a servant, both of His heavenly Father and of the people around Him.

 

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:30 - 8:30 pm

Think the book of Genesis couldn't possibly relate to us and the world in which we live?  Think again!  Genesis means "beginnings" and that's just what this book is about.  It describes a loving God who made all things perfectly, but also tells about the beginning of sin and how it ruined what had been a perfect relationship between God and man.  Isn't that still happening today?  Join us as we continue our study on the book of Genesis. Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

YOUTH GROUP - NEW DAY AND TIME

Our Youth Group (J.U.I.C.E.) will now be meeting on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30

 Note that this coincides with Bible Study.  This is a great mid-week touch point for our youth – a spiritual "shot in the arm" to get them through the week.  Please make every effort to get your kids here; you won't regret it!

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our newest set of study sheets are out; pick one up and get ready to rejoin your Small Group!  Watch for reminders each time a new cycle study sheet is put out.  In addition, you can now go online and print out a study sheet from our website.

 

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

HEALTH & WELLNESS AT HOPE

Just a reminder to parents to please not bring your child to church if he/she is sick or if there is an illness running through the family. We know no one likes to miss a Sunday, but for the consideration of others please take every precaution to avoid spreading sickness.  Thank you!

 

HELP NEEDED FOR PRIMARY CLASS

We need of a teacher for the 1^st & 2^nd grade class as well as the 3^rd-5^th grade class.  Helpers are needed for both classes. Please see Anita Little if you would like to help.

 

 

UTENSILS & SERVING PIECES LOOKING FOR OWNERS

We have a stack of empty containers and serving utensils left over from the Cook Off (and a few other occasions).  Please come and claim your items – they are lonely and want to go home!

 

NEEDS TEAM MEAL MAKERS

The Needs Team is looking to compile a list of those who would be willing to make the occasional meal for families in situations where the delivery of a prepared dinner would be a tremendous blessing.  Just see Lorraine Otis or contact her at lorraineotis@comcast.net or call at 686-1557. You will be contacted to see if you are available when a need arises.  Meals can also be made at anytime as well and put in the pantry freezer. Just see anyone on the Needs Team (Bill Murray, Ken Blythe & Lorraine).

 

 HCF BOOK CLUB

"Healing is a Choice" – Steve Arterburn

This is a wonderful book about the ten choices we can make to find true and deep healing from the wounds of life and the ten lies that stop us from making these choices.  Steve Arterburn also wrote "Every Man's Battle" and is the found of Women of Faith.  He runs New Life Ministries and has touched the lives of countless hurting people.

 

 LAWN SIGNS

Please stop by the back of the church and pick up a lawn sign for you yard. This will be a great way to reach out to people in your neighborhood.  You never know who might be looking for a church home!

 

BUMPER STICKERS

These are a great way for people to be introduced to Hope.  Think of all the people you'll reach as your drive, sit at traffic lights, or even when your car is parked somewhere.  But remember…..you are an "advertisement" for Hope, so watch the road rage! J

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS:

SIGN-IN TABLE:       LaTosha Briggs

LAMB'S MINISTRY:   Judy Gotshall & Damon Ott (T)

                             Sharon Rainey & Son (I)

                             Kim Lawler & Erin Sweeney (C)

                             Melissa Angel & Emily Tambucci (1^st & 2^nd)

                            Anne Owens & Jess St.Petery(3^rd – 5^th)

GREETERS:             Lillian LaRue & Charlotte Zediker

COUNTERS:            Carole Baumiester & Karen Jones

CLEANERS:             Jess St.Petery

TOY CLEANERS:      Ken & Karen Blythe (February)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

CHILD CARE:          Lillian LaRue (Infant – Kindergarten)

                            Stephen Jones (1^st – 5^th Grade)

 

 HOPE'S PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, just drop it in the box near the door on Sunday or email Jim Bradshaw during the week at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com. He will get your requests to the team. If you would like your request to appear in the Hope Notes, let Jim know.  If you want to be a part of this ministry, send Jim your email address and he will add your name to the team.  Please remember, anyone is welcome to join us for prayer at 9:15 on Sunday mornings whether they are on the team or not.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Youth Group – For the Lord's direction and guidance.  For our young people to make it a priority to come.

Building – For God to continue opening/closing doors as we seek to establish a permanent home for Hope.

Small Groups - For God to lead and direct people to their various Small Group. For Small Groups to be a powerful spiritual and relational force at Hope.

 

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 

 

In a Pocket of His Grace,

Lois

foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com

 

 

Note:  If you do not wish to continue receiving Hope Notes, simply reply to this email and I will remove your name from the list. Any correspondence for Hope Notes goes to foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com.

 

 

Don't expect creation to give you what only the Creator can.

                                                                                M.Ott

Hope Notes 02/11/10

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

I've been enjoying listening to the silence of the snow.  It makes everything so quiet.  You can tell before you even look outside in the morning that it has snowed during the night.  Then, in the evening, the silence is so peaceful. Unfortunately, all this snow is making it difficult for us at Hope to connect with one another.  We're missing a worship service here, a Bible study there.  Not being able to have that weekly connection makes a difference.  It makes you realize the value and wisdom in God's Word where He tells us not to forsake fellowshipping with one another.  He knows how much we need it!

 

SUNDAY SERMON 

2/14 – SPECIAL SERVICE

 Love is a very central theme to the Word of God - God's love for us, our love for Him, our love for one another, and on it goes!  Most people would confess that love is major driving force in their lives.  Relationships revolve around this idea.  But love is often confused with a warm feeling or a thrill in our heart.  Real love acts.  When we read Paul's description in 1 Corinthians 13, we find out that it acts selflessly and sacrificially.  We believe that God has called us to show the love of God to one another and to our world.  So we're taking this day devoted to love and focusing on opportunities to put our love in action.  We are privileged to have Choices of the Heart Ministries and Handi*Vangelism Ministries come and share with us how God is using their ministries and how we can get involved!

 

CD'S AVAILABLE

Please remember that Sunday's worship service is available on CD immediately following the service for FREE!  Pick up a copy for yourself or for anyone you would like to share Hope with. Pastor Mark's messages are also available on our website, www.hopechristianfellowship.org. 

 

PRAYER TEAM'S SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We start at 9:15 am in one of the classrooms. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Contact Jim Bradshaw at

spaceheadjim@yahoo.com with any questions.

 

BIBLE READING FOR FEBRUARY – MARK

The Gospel of Mark pictures for us the Son of God in all His power – complete with nineteen miracles – but also paint a very human portrait of the Savior.  We see that Jesus deeply felt human emotions:  disappointment, weariness, wonder, affection.  We also see Jesus as a servant, both of His heavenly Father and of the people around Him.

 

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:30 - 8:30 pm

Think the book of Genesis couldn't possibly relate to us and the world in which we live?  Think again!  Genesis means "beginnings" and that's just what this book is about.  It describes a loving God who made all things perfectly, but also tells about the beginning of sin and how it ruined what had been a perfect relationship between God and man.  Isn't that still happening today?  Join us as we continue our study on the book of Genesis. Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

YOUTH GROUP - NEW DAY AND TIME

Our Youth Group (J.U.I.C.E.) will now be meeting on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30

 Note that this coincides with Bible Study.  This is a great mid-week touch point for our youth – a spiritual "shot in the arm" to get them through the week.  Please make every effort to get your kids here; you won't regret it!

 

WEEKEND TO REMEMBER MARRIAGE SEMINAR

February 12-14, 2010
Hershey Lodge
PO Box 446
Hershey, PA 17033-0446
1-800-437-7439

SMALL GROUPS

Our newest set of study sheets are out; pick one up and get ready to rejoin your Small Group!  Watch for reminders each time a new cycle study sheet is put out.  In addition, you can now go online and print out a study sheet from our website.

 

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

UTENSILS & SERVING PIECES LOOKING FOR OWNERS

We have a stack of empty containers and serving utensils left over from the Cook Off (and a few other occasions).  Please come and claim your items – they are lonely and want to go home!

 

NEEDS TEAM MEAL MAKERS

The Needs Team is looking to compile a list of those who would be willing to make the occasional meal for families in situations where the delivery of a prepared dinner would be a tremendous blessing.  Just see Lorraine Otis or contact her at lorraineotis@comcast.net or call at 686-1557. You will be contacted to see if you are available when a need arises.  Meals can also be made at anytime as well and put in the pantry freezer. Just see anyone on the Needs Team (Bill Murray, Ken Blythe & Lorraine).

 

NEW FEATURE – HCF BOOK CLUB

"Healing is a Choice" – Steve Arterburn

This is a wonderful book about the ten choices we can make to find true and deep healing from the wounds of life and the ten lies that stop us from making these choices.  Steve Arterburn also wrote "Every Man's Battle" and is the found of Women of Faith.  He runs New Life Ministries and has touched the lives of countless hurting people.

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS:

SIGN-IN TABLE:       LaTosha Briggs

LAMB'S MINISTRY:   Lenny Little & Kara Ott (T)

                              LaTosha Briggs & Judy Gotshall (I)

                              Franne Harkin & Liz Johnson (C)

                              Joe & Lisa Anyzek (1^st & 2^nd)

                            Kathleen Toomin (3^rd – 5^th)

GREETERS:             Lillian LaRue & Charlotte Zediker

COUNTERS:            Carole Baumiester & Karen Jones

CLEANERS:             Jess St.Petery

TOY CLEANERS:      Ken & Karen Blythe (February)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

CHILD CARE:          Franne Harkin

 

 HOPE'S PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, just drop it in the box near the door on Sunday or email Jim Bradshaw during the week at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com. He will get your requests to the team. If you would like your request to appear in the Hope Notes, let Jim know.  If you want to be a part of this ministry, send Jim your email address and he will add your name to the team.  Please remember, anyone is welcome to join us for prayer at 9:15 on Sunday mornings whether they are on the team or not.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

 For all those in our fellowship who are having surgery this week:  Ken Blythe, John Brazelis, Tony Dariano, Karla Hopkins, and Eva Owens.

Helen Mastalski – God's protection for her family. 

Lisa Anyzek - Unspoken

Youth Group – For the Lord's direction and guidance.  For our young people to make it a priority to come.

Building – For God to continue opening/closing doors as we seek to establish a permanent home for Hope.

Small Groups - For God to lead and direct people to their various Small Group. For Small Groups to be a powerful spiritual and relational force at Hope.

 

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 

 

Mighty is our God!

Lois

foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com

 

 

Note:  If you do not wish to continue receiving Hope Notes, simply reply to this email and I will remove your name from the list. Any correspondence for Hope Notes goes to foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com.

 

 

Don't expect creation to give you what only the Creator can.

                                                                                M.Ott

Wednesday Night Services Cancelled

Hi Everyone!

 

Seems like the snow is coming every time we plan to have a service!  As much as I hate doing this, we need to cancel this evening's Bible Study and Youth Group.  There is a Blizzard Warning in effect through midnight, and the authorities are warning everyone to stay off the roads later today due to those dangerous conditions.  So please be safe and stay warm - and if you can help out those around you, please do so!

 

Now it does seem like forever since we have been able to have everyone together.  We had about 80 to 85 at church Sunday, and the week before that, the snow stopped many of you from coming out as well.  So, please make plans to be with us on this Sunday!!  We're putting the focus on "Love in Action" this Valentine's Day and presenting challenging opportunities to get involved with helping people in real need.  Plus, as a church family, we need times like this to catch up with one another and sustain our connections!  Don't miss this Sunday and all that God wants to do as we meet together in His name!

 

May the Lord keep you this day and every day!

Pastor Mark

Tomorrow's Service

Hi Everyone -

 

This time it is Pastor Mark writing.  I just wanted to get the word out that we WILL be having our services tomorrow at 10 am.  Our Building Team has done a fabulous job of getting the walks and the lot cleared of snow.  Those who live close to the church tell me that the roads have been plowed.  Obviously, nothing is completely cleared, but we believe it is reasonable to open the church tomorrow for whoever can make it.

 

For those of you who can make it, please do everything you can do to help us fill in for those who can't.  If you can be understanding and patient as we find people to staff kids classes and take care of what needs to get done, things will run much more smoothly.  Thank you all in advance for your willing hearts to serve!

 

Let me add this personal note.  We are making this decision based on what we believe we can do on our end.  However, each of you need to personally decide how safe or possible it is for you to travel to church tomorrow.  We will completely understand if any of you feel that it is unwise or unsafe to join us for the service tomorrow.  We will do our best to post the message online for those who would like to catch up.  We trust each of you to make the decision for you and you family that makes the most sense.

 

Also, the teen activity is ON for tomorrow after church at the Angels house.  Due to the nature of the roads, we are making one adjustment - asking parents to get their kids TO and FROM the Angels house.  The activity will start after church and will go until 3 pm - lunch is provided.  If you have any questions, contact Chris and Stephanie Mulder(stephersmulder@comcast.net).

 

OK - feel free to write me at ottzoo@gmail.com if you have any questions!  Hope to see many of you tomorrow!

 

Serving Him Together!
Pastor Mark

Hope Notes 02/04/10

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow…" Isaiah 1:18  That's the verse that keeps coming to mind as I look out at all this snow we've been having.  The snow can be blindingly white; is that how clean we are in God's sight?  And what about the dirty mess that's under the snow?  You know how it looks when it starts to melt; all brown and yucky.  I know that God has washed me clean.  I think the dirty mess is there simply as a reminder to me of how my flesh continues to dirty up my life and to keep me striving to live the way God already sees me.

 

SUNDAY SERMON 

2/7 – The Holy Spirit in Believers (Acts 19:1-7)

We hear so much discussion about the Holy Spirit today in the church.  It can get confusing! What does it mean to be "filled" with the Holy Spirit?  When do we "receive" the Holy Spirit?  In this story, we will see that Paul came across some believers who had not yet received the Holy Spirit.  There is a specific reason for this, and we can learn from this story some foundational truths about the Holy Spirit and His work in each of us as well as the teaching from Scripture on how He is at work today in the church.

 

CD'S AVAILABLE

Please remember that Sunday's worship service is available on CD immediately following the service for FREE!  Pick up a copy for yourself or for anyone you would like to share Hope with. Pastor Mark's messages are also available on our website, www.hopechristianfellowship.org. 

 

PRAYER TEAM'S SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We start at 9:15 am in one of the classrooms. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Contact Jim Bradshaw at

spaceheadjim@yahoo.com with any questions.

 

BIBLE READING FOR FEBRUARY – MARK

The Gospel of Mark pictures for us the Son of God in all His power – complete with nineteen miracles – but also paint a very human portrait of the Savior.  We see that Jesus deeply felt human emotions:  disappointment, weariness, wonder, affection.  We also see Jesus as a servant, both of His heavenly Father and of the people around Him.

 

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:30 - 8:30 pm

Think the book of Genesis couldn't possibly relate to us and the world in which we live?  Think again!  Genesis means "beginnings" and that's just what this book is about.  It describes a loving God who made all things perfectly, but also tells about the beginning of sin and how it ruined what had been a perfect relationship between God and man.  Isn't that still happening today?  Join us as we continue our study on the book of Genesis. Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

YOUTH GROUP - NEW DAY AND TIME

Our Youth Group (J.U.I.C.E.) will now be meeting on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 – 8:30

 Note that this coincides with Bible Study.  This is a great mid-week touch point for our youth – a spiritual "shot in the arm" to get them through the week.  Please make every effort to get your kids here; you won't regret it!

 

YOUTH GROUP HANG TIME – THIS SUNDAY

Sunday February 7^th

12:00 – 3:00 pm

Come on out and hang with us at Norm Angel's house!

 5 Hunters Creek Circle, Mullica Hill

 

WEEKEND TO REMEMBER MARRIAGE SEMINAR

February 12-14, 2010
Hershey Lodge
PO Box 446
Hershey, PA 17033-0446
1-800-437-7439
We are getting together a group of married couples to experience this amazing marriage seminar. You can register via phone or mail.
In order to make hotel reservations and receive the discounted room rate of $115/night, you must call the hotel directly at 1-800-437-7439. See Melissa McGinness with any questions.

Our Group Name is:  HOPEHANDS

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our newest set of study sheets are out; pick one up and get ready to rejoin your Small Group!  Watch for reminders each time a new cycle study sheet is put out.  In addition, you can now go online and print out a study sheet from our website.

 

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

JANUARY GIVING REPORT

For the month of January, we averaged $2989 per week.  Our target for 2010 is $3300 per week.  Please pray that the Lord will allow us to meet and exceed our goal for this year so that we can continue to minister effectively and to grow as God as planned!  If you haven't made a personal decision to give to the church that you attend, please take some time to seek the Lord in prayer and come to some commitment on what God would have you sacrifice to give in support of His work!

 

SOUPER BOWL SOUP & CHILI COOK OFF WINNERS!

Chili – Anne Owens

Soup – Dana Ott

Congratulations, ladies!  Get ready to share those recipes!

Thanks to all who participated; it was a really fun time.

 

NEEDS TEAM MEAL MAKERS

The Needs Team is looking to compile a list of those who would be willing to make the occasional meal for families in situations where the delivery of a prepared dinner would be a tremendous blessing.  Just see Lorraine Otis or contact her at lorraineotis@comcast.net or call at 686-1557. You will be contacted to see if you are available when a need arises.  Meals can also be made at anytime as well and put in the pantry freezer. Just see anyone on the Needs Team (Bill Murray, Ken Blythe & Lorraine).

 

NEW FEATURE – HCF BOOK CLUB

"Healing is a Choice" – Steve Arterburn

This is a wonderful book about the ten choices we can make to find true and deep healing from the wounds of life and the ten lies that stop us from making these choices.  Steve Arterburn also wrote "Every Man's Battle" and is the found of Women of Faith.  He runs New Life Ministries and has touched the lives of countless hurting people.

 

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS:

SIGN-IN TABLE:       Kylie Ott

LAMB'S MINISTRY:   Lenny Little & Kara Ott (T)

                              LaTosha Briggs & Judy Gotshall (I)

                              Fran Harkin & Liz Johnson (C)

                              Joe & Lisa Anyzek (1^st & 2^nd)

                            Kathleen Toomin (3^rd – 5^th)

GREETERS:             Lillian LaRue & Charlotte Zediker

COUNTERS:            Melissa McGinness & Kathleen Toomin

CLEANERS:             Kathleen Toomin

TOY CLEANERS:      Ken & Karen Blythe (February)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

CHILD CARE:          Linda Landis

 

 HOPE'S PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, just drop it in the box near the door on Sunday or email Jim Bradshaw during the week at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com. He will get your requests to the team. If you would like your request to appear in the Hope Notes, let Jim know.  If you want to be a part of this ministry, send Jim your email address and he will add your name to the team.  Please remember, anyone is welcome to join us for prayer at 9:15 on Sunday mornings whether they are on the team or not.

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Helen Mastalski – God's protection for her family. 

Lisa Anyzek - Unspoken

Janet Welsh - Please pray for relief from pain, strength, and peace as she goes through a long & difficult recovery from cervical spine surgery.

Youth Group – For the Lord's direction and guidance.  For our young people to make it a priority to come.

Building – For God to continue opening/closing doors as we seek to establish a permanent home for Hope.

Small Groups - For God to lead and direct people to their various Small Group. For Small Groups to be a powerful spiritual and relational force at Hope.

 

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 

 

God is Able,

Lois

 

Note:  If you do not wish to continue receiving Hope Notes, simply reply to this email and I will remove your name from the list. Any correspondence for Hope Notes goes to foolsforchrist7@yahoo.com.

 

 

Don't expect creation to give you what only the Creator can.

                                                                                M.Ott