Hope Notes 1/26/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

We live in a fallen world.  The consequences of sin are all around us.  There is a pattern of reaping and sowing.  Our hearts or spirits are sometimes broken during this process.  I tried to convey this idea to someone who indignantly proclaimed, "I am not a sinner and I've certainly never been broken!"  Her idea of being broken was completely different than mine.  Sometimes being broken is the only way God can truly reach you.  Sometimes when you are in pieces on the ground that is the only time you would "allow" God to scoop you up and begin to put you back together again.  I don't see being broken as a weakness or a bad thing.  I view it as a time when God in His wisdom and His mercy takes all our broken pieces of our lives, blesses them, and rebuilds our lives to be more in His image.  It is a time when you can experience God's love and grace in abundance.  Don't be afraid or ashamed of being "broken" – instead, use it as a time to surrender yourself completely to the Lord and feel the healing balm of His loving kindness.

SUNDAY MESSAGE
1/29 – Appealing to God (2 Samuel 12:15-31)

Have you ever felt so heartbroken and overwhelmed at the path your life is taking that you just cry out to God to change it?  Those moments can be brief or can seem to last forever, but the experience in every minute is having every fiber of our being screaming against where we are headed.  David faced a moment like that in the story we'll read today.  He spent sleepless nights pouring his heart out to the Lord.  Is it OK for us to ask God to change what is happening?  And how do we deal with the reality that the change may not come?  As we wrestle with the hard realities of our lives on this earth, we need to learn from David's experience.

 

MESSAGES AVAILABLE
Did you know 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.

 

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 Prayer Team with any questions.

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY PRAYER TIME

All Sunday School and Nursery teachers/helpers are invited to come join us in the Toddler Classroom every Sunday from 9:40 – 9:45 for a time of prayer before the children begin arriving.

BIBLE READING FOR JANUARY - ACTS
The book of Acts is the place to look if you're curious about the history of the church.  There's a lot of encouragement to be found in reading about the miracles of the early church, the persecution it endured, and the great things it accomplished through the power of the Spirit of God. Acts traces the history of the church from the time Jesus ascended to heaven, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and through the exploits and trials of New Testament heroes of the faith, such as Peter and Paul.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY
7:00 – 8:15
You don't want to miss our study of 1Corinthians!  The Christians at Corinth were like so many of us today – they knew Christ, but they still needed His cleansing! Gathering together midweek to dig into God's Word is key in staying connected to our church family and to our Lord.  Childcare is provided.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
Our Children's Program runs at the same time as Bible study.  We currently offer classes for 2-3 year olds, 4-5 year olds, and 1st thru 5^th graders.

YOUNG ADULTS
Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Monday of every month at 7:30 in the Youth Room at church.  Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome. We now have childcare available.  We have a schedule so that everyone can volunteer to take a week and keep the childcare going.  See Pastor Mark or Dana for more information.

WOMEN'S PRAYER GROUP
Meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm in the Prayer Room at church.  All women are invited to attend.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

LOVE AND RESPECT CONFERENCE
March 2-3, Friday night and Saturday morning

The conference will be held at Calvary Chapel in Philly.  The cost is $35 per person (before Feb 20th).  You can register by going to www.loveandrespect.com and choosing the Philadelphia conference.  Since this conference is within driving distance, it is a very economical way to build your marriage.  Of course, there are local hotels available, so you can also make it into a weekend getaway if you'd like.  But whether your marriage is everything you want it to be or not, it is always beneficial to spend a few days focused on one another.   You won't be disappointed in what God does if you take this opportunity!

PS - the "Weekend to Remember" conference that we've attended the past several years is also available locally including Hershey Pa in February, the Poconos in March, and Washington DC in March and April... for more information about this conference, you can go to www.familylife.com and go to Weekend to Remember.

 

SMALL GROUPS
Study sheets are located in the back of the auditorium, or you can print a copy right from our website!  At Small Groups, we'll take a look at how the Bible emphasizes God's plan for us to grow and be healthy through relationships within our spiritual family.  Anyone still looking for a Small Group to plug into can see Damon Briggs; he will help you get connected!

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP
Wednesdays from 7:00 – 8:30
This is a great mid-week boost for our teens to stay connected, grow in the Lord, and have a fun time with each other!  See Dave Hallahan with any questions.

 

5^th SUNDAY PRAYER SERVICE         - THIS SUNDAY
January 29^th
YOU are invited to join the youth leadership team in the youth room immediately following the service on Jan. 29th. We will have a couple of different ways that we can pray for the youth. There is no time commitment, stay for as long or as short as you'd like. 

 

SUPER BOWL PARTY
Sunday, February 5^th
After church until 2:00 pm

Football – Food – Games – Snacks.  What could be better?!  After church until 2 pm.  Contact Dave Hallahan with any questions either in person, (856)-340-8519 or dmhallahan5@gmail.com.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

DIRECTORY PHOTOS

Prints of the church directory photos are available for those of you who are interested!  To order, visit http://syllipsiphoto.smugmug.com/Children-Families/Hope-Christian-Fellowship-2011.  You can also contact Kristy Straub for additional information at syllipsiphoto@gmail.com, or text/call 856-217-7233.

 

DO YOU "LIKE" HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP          ?
For those of you on Facebook, this is just a reminder to go on our Facebook page and "like" it so you can keep up with what's happening.  It's a great way to stay current with all the activities at Hope.  Don't forget our Young Adults and our Youth Groups pages as well.  Even if you don't fall into that age category, it's fun to check them out and see what they're up to.  Plus, fun pictures get posted!

 

OPPORTUNITES TO SERVE

Do you want to truly feel like you are a vital and connected part of Hope?  Then find a place where you can serve!  Here are some ideas!

 

COFFEE CLEANUP CREW

The coffee cleanup crew could use a few more helpers!  This is a quick and easy way to serve all of our church friends!  Really – it will only take about 15 minutes of your time.  Please contact Al Lewis at Lewis@voorhees.k12.nj.us

 

MEALS MINISTRY
Needs Team is updating the Rotating Meals Ministry list.  We could use some other willing hearts to prepare the occasional meal for a family during a time of need.  Anyone who would like to be added to this list please see Lorraine Otis or contact her atlorraineotis@comcast.net

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Want to help us with the most effective and powerful ministry at Hope?  Join in as part of our Kid's Ministry!  Here's what to do:
          Nursery
                   Contact Brian or Naidona Ott
                   856-589-2047 or ottbriant@netscape.net
          Toddlers & Preschool
                   Contact Franne Harkin
                   609-458-2124 or fhark7@yahoo.com
          Elementary
                   Contact Anita Little
                   856-783-7168 or alittleshopper@gmail.com
          Wednesday Night Program
                   Contact Jen Winstel
                   856-782-7798 or jenwinrn@comcast.net

SOUND AND MEDIA TEAM
Our Sound and Media Team can always use more helpers.  Don't be scared; they will train you!  Contact Steve Jones for sound at jones.stephen.d@gmail.com or Jim Bradshaw at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com for media.

Just pick where you would be most interested in helping and give that person a call. They will fill you in on the current needs and tell you whatever you need to know!

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS
Nursery -                       Sharon Sambucci & Pat Schug
Toddlers                        Rebecca & John Jacob
Pre K – Kindergarten    Kim Lawlor & Ryan Sweeney
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        TBA
Greeters                        John Brazelis
                                       Lucille Franchetti
                                      Lisa Fiorile
                                      Helen Mastalski
Wed. Evening Workers  (N) Mary LeBeau & Lisa Fiorile (4-5's) Connie Matthews

HOPES PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, please fill out a prayer request card and drop it in the offering slot at the back of the church on Sunday or use the "Prayer Request Form" on our website. If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Jim Bradshaw directly at Prayer@hopechristianfellowship.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Dave Bolser – Please pray for healing and strength for both him and Debbie.
Youth Pastor – Please pray for our new Youth Pastor, Dave Hallahan, as he beings the task of ministering to our teens, planning programs for them, and moving forward with God's call on his life here at Hope.
Kids Ministry Director.  Please pray for God to connect us with the right people at the right time and let Him have His work in all of this!
Young Adults – Please pray that God would give the young adults here at Hope a heart for our new ministry so that they can grow in the Lord and forge closer relationships with each other.

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." Ephesians 6:18

Praising our King,
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 Hopenotes Email.

 

Hope Notes 1/19/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

Most every day I take a walk out to the back of our property, into the woods.  I like to look up into the trees and past them to the sky.  Every season presents a different view – soft hazy buds, lush greenery, beautiful autumn colors, or stark bare branches.  I like it in the winter when all the leaves have disappeared.  The trees project their silhouettes in sharp contrast against the sky.  Suddenly, everything that has been hidden by the leaves is revealed.  The haphazard squirrel's nest and the carefully constructed bird's nests are now visible.  They were there all along; I just couldn't see them.  Daniel 2:22 tells us that "He reveals deep and hidden things…"  I know God wants to reveal more to us than just the bird nests; He wants to reveal His truths.  He gave us the perfect tool to do so – the Bible, His Word.  God's Truth is always there, always available.  It isn't hidden at all!  We don't need to wait for the leaves to fall for it to be revealed; we just need to open the Bible and read it.

SUNDAY MESSAGE
1/22 – God's Discipline (2 Samuel 12:1-14)

No one likes to be in trouble. We spend great amounts of energy trying to avoid it or trying to get out of it!  When God brings discipline into our lives, it can very much feel like getting in trouble.  But it is so much deeper than those childish notions.  God's work in our lives when we've done what is wrong is redemptive and designed to draw us into awareness of our wrong so that we can turn from it.  There is certainly much pain in the process, and we do suffer losses as a result of our sin.  But God is not simply inflicting punishment.  He is calling us to true and deep repentance so that our lives can be set back on the right track.  As we look into the story of Nathan's confrontation of David, we'll see an example of how God works in discipline in our lives.  And we'll have the opportunity to respond to His call to turn away from our sin and fall into His grace and mercy.

 

MESSAGES AVAILABLE
Did you know 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.

 

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 Prayer Team with any questions.

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY PRAYER TIME

All Sunday School and Nursery teachers/helpers are invited to come join us in the Toddler Classroom every Sunday from 9:40 – 9:45 for a time of prayer before the children begin arriving.

BIBLE READING FOR JANUARY - ACTS
The book of Acts is the place to look if you're curious about the history of the church.  There's a lot of encouragement to be found in reading about the miracles of the early church, the persecution it endured, and the great things it accomplished through the power of the Spirit of God. Acts traces the history of the church from the time Jesus ascended to heaven, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and through the exploits and trials of New Testament heroes of the faith, such as Peter and Paul.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY
7:00 – 8:15
You don't want to miss our study of 1Corinthians!  The Christians at Corinth were like so many of us today – they knew Christ, but they still needed His cleansing! Gathering together midweek to dig into God's Word is key in staying connected to our church family and to our Lord.  Childcare is provided.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
Our Children's Program runs at the same time as Bible study.  We currently offer classes for 2-3 year olds, 4-5 year olds, and 1st thru 5^th graders.

YOUNG ADULTS
Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Monday of every month at 7:30 in the Youth Room at church.  Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome. We now have childcare available.  We have a schedule so that everyone can volunteer to take a week and keep the childcare going.  See Pastor Mark or Dana for more information.

WOMEN'S PRAYER GROUP
Meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm in the Prayer Room at church.  All women are invited to attend.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

LOVE AND RESPECT CONFERENCE
March 2-3, Friday night and Saturday morning

The conference will be held at Calvary Chapel in Philly.  The cost is $35 per person (before Feb 20th).  You can register by going to www.loveandrespect.com and choosing the Philadelphia conference.  Since this conference is within driving distance, it is a very economical way to build your marriage.  Of course, there are local hotels available, so you can also make it into a weekend getaway if you'd like.  But whether your marriage is everything you want it to be or not, it is always beneficial to spend a few days focused on one another.   You won't be disappointed in what God does if you take this opportunity!

PS - the "Weekend to Remember" conference that we've attended the past several years is also available locally including Hershey Pa in February, the Poconos in March, and Washington DC in March and April... for more information about this conference, you can go to www.familylife.com and go to Weekend to Remember.

 

SMALL GROUPS
Study sheets are located in the back of the auditorium, or you can print a copy right from our website!  At Small Groups, we'll take a look at how the Bible emphasizes God's plan for us to grow and be healthy through relationships within our spiritual family.  Anyone still looking for a Small Group to plug into can see Damon Briggs; he will help you get connected!

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP
Wednesdays from 7:00 – 8:30
This is a great mid-week boost for our teens to stay connected, grow in the Lord, and have a fun time with each other!  See Dave Hallahan with any questions.

 

5^th SUNDAY PRAYER SERVICE        
January 29^th
YOU are invited to join the youth leadership team in the youth room immediately following the service on Jan. 29th. We will have a couple of different ways that we can pray for the youth. There is no time commitment, stay for as long or as short as you'd like. 

 

SUPER BOWL PARTY
Sunday, February 5^th
After church until 2:00 pm

Football – Food – Games – Snacks.  What could be better?!  After church until 2 pm.  Contact Dave Hallahan with any questions either in person, (856)-340-8519 or dmhallahan5@gmail.com.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

FREE PROM/FORMAL DRESSES
Saturday Jan 21^st & Sunday Jan 22^nd
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
"The Rose Petal" community service group would like to offer one free gown to any girl who is not able to afford to purchase a dress for their Prom/Formal.  Each girl must come in person.

 LOCATION:  Beacon Academy Preschool, 570 Egg Harbor Rd, Washington Twp, NJ.  Check out therosepetal@comcast.net for more info.

 

FREE DEVOTIONALS

There are copies of the daily devotional "Our Daily Bread" available in the resource room for free.  The current edition has devotionals for each day through the end of February.

 

DO YOU "LIKE" HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP          ?
For those of you on Facebook, this is just a reminder to go on our Facebook page and "like" it so you can keep up with what's happening.  It's a great way to stay current with all the activities at Hope.  Don't forget our Young Adults and our Youth Groups pages as well.  Even if you don't fall into that age category, it's fun to check them out and see what they're up to.  Plus, fun pictures get posted!

 

OPPORTUNITES TO SERVE

Do you want to truly feel like you are a vital and connected part of Hope?  Then find a place where you can serve!  Here are some ideas!

 

COFFEE CLEANUP CREW

The coffee cleanup crew could use a few more helpers!  This is a quick and easy way to serve all of our church friends!  Really – it will only take about 15 minutes of your time.  Please contact Al Lewis at Lewis@voorhees.k12.nj.us

 

MEALS MINISTRY
Needs Team is updating the Rotating Meals Ministry list.  We could use some other willing hearts to prepare the occasional meal for a family during a time of need.  Anyone who would like to be added to this list please see Lorraine Otis or contact her atlorraineotis@comcast.net

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Want to help us with the most effective and powerful ministry at Hope?  Join in as part of our Kid's Ministry!  Here's what to do:
          Nursery
                   Contact Brian or Naidona Ott
                   856-589-2047 or ottbriant@netscape.net
          Toddlers & Preschool
                   Contact Franne Harkin
                   609-458-2124 or fhark7@yahoo.com
          Elementary
                   Contact Anita Little
                   856-783-7168 or alittleshopper@gmail.com
          Wednesday Night Program
                   Contact Jen Winstel
                   856-782-7798 or jenwinrn@comcast.net

SOUND AND MEDIA TEAM
Our Sound and Media Team can always use more helpers.  Don't be scared; they will train you!  Contact Steve Jones for sound at jones.stephen.d@gmail.com or Jim Bradshaw at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com for media.

Just pick where you would be most interested in helping and give that person a call. They will fill you in on the current needs and tell you whatever you need to know!

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS
Nursery -                       TBA
Toddlers                        Rebecca & John Jacob
Pre K – Kindergarten    Kim Lawlor & Ryan Sweeney
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Bill Berry & Mike Hartwell
Greeters                        John Brazelis
                                       Lucille Franchetti
                                      Lisa Fiorile
                                      Helen Mastalski
Wed. Evening Workers  (N) Steve & Karen Jones (4-5's) Pat Nolan

HOPES PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, please fill out a prayer request card and drop it in the offering slot at the back of the church on Sunday or use the "Prayer Request Form" on our website. If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Jim Bradshaw directly at Prayer@hopechristianfellowship.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Dave Bolser – Dave has been in the hospital over ten days and had surgery Tuesday.  He is not responding well and is in ICU.  Please pray for healing and comfort for both him and Debbie.
Youth Pastor – Please pray for our new Youth Pastor, Dave Hallahan, as he beings the task of ministering to our teens, planning programs for them, and moving forward with God's call on his life here at Hope.
Kids Ministry Director.  Please pray for God to connect us with the right people at the right time and let Him have His work in all of this!
Young Adults – Please pray that God would give the young adults here at Hope a heart for our new ministry so that they can grow in the Lord and forge closer relationships with each other.

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." Ephesians 6:18

One of His,
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 Hopenotes Email.

Hope Notes 1/12/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

This week we commemorate Jesus' sacrifice on the cross with Communion.  We partake in this celebration a little differently at Hope.  We form a circle around the auditorium – no beginning and no end to our circle.  I remember back when we were just a little horseshoe shaped group.  We didn't even make it halfway around!  Now, it is such a blessing to see how we not only complete the circle, but have "extras" piled up in the corners!  We are so full.  God has truly blessed Hope with an abundance of His people.  I believe it is a testimony to the work God is doing here and to the faithfulness of His followers.  Please be sure to come, take your place in the circle and celebrate with us!

SUNDAY MESSAGE
1/15 – A Successful Cover-Up (2 Samuel 11:14-27)

COMMUNION

What is the answer for the mistakes and failures of our life?  Some would say that the best solution is to "move on" and pretend they never happened.  But most of us instinctively act like the only thing we need to do is successfully cover up our wrongs.  For many, we believe we can continue to live in our failures as long as no one knows!  In fact, we have become accustomed to one scandal after another where some public figure has covered their sins for a long time.  Unfortunately, our humanity believes we actually can hide what we've done and act like it never happened.  This drive caused David to deal with his awful sin with Bathsheba by doing even more terrible things.  Never underestimate the power of our desperate and limitless human desire to hide our shortcomings.

 

MESSAGES AVAILABLE
Did you know 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.

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 Prayer Team with any questions.

BIBLE READING FOR JANUARY - ACTS
The book of Acts is the place to look if you're curious about the history of the church.  There's a lot of encouragement to be found in reading about the miracles of the early church, the persecution it endured, and the great things it accomplished through the power of the Spirit of God. Acts traces the history of the church from the time Jesus ascended to heaven, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and through the exploits and trials of New Testament heroes of the faith, such as Peter and Paul.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY
7:00 – 8:15
You don't want to miss our study of 1Corinthians!  The Christians at Corinth were like so many of us today – they knew Christ, but they still needed His cleansing! Gathering together midweek to dig into God's Word is key in staying connected to our church family and to our Lord.  Childcare is provided.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
Our Children's Program runs at the same time as Bible study.  We currently offer classes for 2-3 year olds, 4-5 year olds, and 1st thru 5^th graders.

YOUNG ADULTS
Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Monday of every month at 7:30 in the Youth Room at church.  Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome. We now have childcare available.  We have a schedule so that everyone can volunteer to take a week and keep the childcare going.  See Pastor Mark or Dana for more information.

WOMEN'S PRAYER GROUP
Meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm in the Prayer Room at church.  All women are invited to attend.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST
Saturday, January 14^th @ 8:30 am
Make sure to come and be a part of the fellowship and food that make up a wonderful morning of connection with our brothers-in-Christ.  Bring a friend along to share the experience.

 

LOVE AND RESPECT CONFERENCE
March 2-3, Friday night and Saturday morning

The conference will be held at Calvary Chapel in Philly.  The cost is $35 per person (before Feb 20th).  You can register by going to www.loveandrespect.com and choosing the Philadelphia conference.  Since this conference is within driving distance, it is a very economical way to build your marriage.  Of course, there are local hotels available, so you can also make it into a weekend getaway if you'd like.  But whether your marriage is everything you want it to be or not, it is always beneficial to spend a few days focused on one another.   You won't be disappointed in what God does if you take this opportunity!

PS - the "Weekend to Remember" conference that we've attended the past several years is also available locally including Hershey Pa in February, the Poconos in March, and Washington DC in March and April... for more information about this conference, you can go to www.familylife.com and go to Weekend to Remember.

 

SMALL GROUPS
Study sheets are located in the back of the auditorium, or you can print a copy right from our website!  At Small Groups, we'll take a look at how the Bible emphasizes God's plan for us to grow and be healthy through relationships within our spiritual family.  Anyone still looking for a Small Group to plug into can see Damon Briggs; he will help you get connected!

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP
Wednesdays from 7:00 – 8:30
This is a great mid-week boost for our teens to stay connected, grow in the Lord, and have a fun time with each other!  See Dave Hallahan with any questions.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

FREE PROM/FORMAL DRESSES
Saturday Jan 21^st & Sunday Jan 22^nd
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
"The Rose Petal" community service group would like to offer one free gown to any girl who is not able to afford to purchase a dress for their Prom/Formal.  Each girl must come in person.

 LOCATION:  Beacon Academy Preschool, 570 Egg Harbor Rd, Washington Twp, NJ.  Check out therosepetal@comcast.net for more info.

 

FREE DEVOTIONALS

There are copies of the daily devotional "Our Daily Bread" available in the resource room for free.  The current edition has devotionals for each day through the end of February.

 

DO YOU "LIKE" HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP          ?
For those of you on Facebook, this is just a reminder to go on our Facebook page and "like" it so you can keep up with what's happening.  It's a great way to stay current with all the activities at Hope.  Don't forget our Young Adults and our Youth Groups pages as well.  Even if you don't fall into that age category, it's fun to check them out and see what they're up to.  Plus, fun pictures get posted!

 

OPPORTUNITES TO SERVE

Do you want to truly feel like you are a vital and connected part of Hope?  Then find a place where you can serve!  Here are some ideas!

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
We are still in need of a helper for our 4-5 year old classes and a teacher/helper for our 2-3 year old classes.  Please search your heart to see if God is calling you to help with this ministry.  We will have to cancel classes if we do not get the volunteers we need.

Contact Jen Winstel at jenwinrn@comcast.net  or Pastor Mark to volunteer.

 

COFFEE CLEANUP CREW

The coffee cleanup crew could use a few more helpers!  This is a quick and easy way to serve all of our church friends!  Really – it will only take about 15 minutes of your time.  Please contact Al Lewis at Lewis@voorhees.k12.nj.us

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY MEETING
Sunday, January 15^th
We are in need of a few new teams for the Toddler and Pre-K/Kindergarten classes for the upcoming year.  We will have a quick meeting with all Toddler and Pre-K/Kindergarten teachers and helps, along with anyone who might be interested in serving this ministry.  We will be meeting the Toddler Room.  Contact Franne Harkin (fhark7@yahoo.com) with any questions.

 

MEALS MINISTRY
Needs Team is updating the Rotating Meals Ministry list.  We could use some other willing hearts to prepare the occasional meal for a family during a time of need.  Anyone who would like to be added to this list please see Lorraine Otis or contact her atlorraineotis@comcast.net

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Want to help us with the most effective and powerful ministry at Hope?  Join in as part of our Kid's Ministry!  Here's what to do:
          Nursery
                   Contact Brian or Naidona Ott
                   856-589-2047 or ottbriant@netscape.net
          Toddlers & Preschool
                   Contact Franne Harkin
                   609-458-2124 or fhark7@yahoo.com
          Elementary
                   Contact Anita Little
                   856-783-7168 or alittleshopper@gmail.com
          Wednesday Night Program
                   Contact Jen Winstel
                   856-782-7798 or jenwinrn@comcast.net

SOUND AND MEDIA TEAM
Our Sound and Media Team can always use more helpers.  Don't be scared; they will train you!  Contact Steve Jones for sound at jones.stephen.d@gmail.com or Jim Bradshaw at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com for media.

Just pick where you would be most interested in helping and give that person a call. They will fill you in on the current needs and tell you whatever you need to know!

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS
Nursery -                       TBA
Toddlers                        Ardra Jarvis and Natalie
Pre K – Kindergarten    Tina & Craig Campana
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Bill Berry & Mike Hartwell
Greeters                        John Brazelis
                                       Lucille Franchetti
                                      Lisa Fiorile
                                      Helen Mastalski
Wed. Evening                TBA

HOPES PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, please fill out a prayer request card and drop it in the offering slot at the back of the church on Sunday or use the "Prayer Request Form" on our website. If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Jim Bradshaw directly at Prayer@hopechristianfellowship.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS
Youth Pastor – Please pray for our new Youth Pastor, Dave Hallahan, as he beings the task of ministering to our teens, planning programs for them, and moving forward with God's call on his life here at Hope.
Kids Ministry Director.  Please pray for God to connect us with the right people at the right time and let Him have His work in all of this!
Young Adults – Please pray that God would give the young adults here at Hope a heart for our new ministry so that they can grow in the Lord and forge closer relationships with each other.

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." Ephesians 6:18

The Babe is Born,
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 Hopenotes Email.

Hope Notes 1/5/12

Dear Friends of Hope~
Last night we had our Annual Business Meeting at Hope.  We need to think of a new name for it, because "Business Meeting" sounds so dry and boring.  I actually found it exciting as Pastor Mark took us back to last January and put our goals up on the big screen.  It was awesome to see what God has helped us to accomplish throughout the past year!  I know that I had forgotten what most of our goals were; it was great to be reminded of them and to see so many of them met beyond our expectations.  Let me "boast in the Lord" and say what a feeling of delight I had for our church and the continued growth we have experienced.  God is sending the people and we are doing our best to be faithful to Him and minister to everyone who comes.  Being part of a meeting like last night's really gives you a sense of the family that we are and of the ownership each and every one of us has in Hope.  Now if we could just come up with a better name…………

SUNDAY MESSAGE
1/8 – The Path to Failure (2 Samuel 11:1-13)

When we look at people who do terribly wrong things, we can easily start to think that they are somehow abnormally evil or callous.  But the truth is that most people who make very large mistakes begin by making very little mistakes.  The pathway to the 'big' sins is through little choices that probably feel inconsequential, but which take us into danger.  As we look at one of the major failures in David's life, we'll see how a seemingly small choice leads to unbelievable sin in the life of this godly king.  We'll look at the process by which David is drawn deeper and deeper into evil, and learn how we too are drawn by these forces to go further and further into wrong.  Let's take this opportunity to learn from David's life and be better prepared for the deceptive power of our own flesh.

 

MESSAGES AVAILABLE
Did you know 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.

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 Prayer Team with any questions.

BIBLE READING FOR JANUARY - ACTS
The book of Acts is the place to look if you're curious about the history of the church.  There's a lot of encouragement to be found in reading about the miracles of the early church, the persecution it endured, and the great things it accomplished through the power of the Spirit of God. Acts traces the history of the church from the time Jesus ascended to heaven, through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and through the exploits and trials of New Testament heroes of the faith, such as Peter and Paul.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

WEDNESDAY EVENING BIBLE STUDY
7:00 – 8:15
You don't want to miss our study of 1Corinthians!  The Christians at Corinth were like so many of us today – they knew Christ, but they still needed His cleansing! Gathering together midweek to dig into God's Word is key in staying connected to our church family and to our Lord.  Childcare is provided.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
Our Children's Program runs at the same time as Bible study.  We currently offer classes for 2-3 year olds, 4-5 year olds, and 1st thru 5^th graders.

 

ALL WEDNESDAY EVENING PROGRAMS RESUME JANUARY 11^TH, 2012 

YOUNG ADULTS
Meets the 1^st and 3^rd Monday of every month at 7:30 in the Youth Room at church.  Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome. We now have childcare available.  We have a schedule so that everyone can volunteer to take a week and keep the childcare going.  See Pastor Mark or Dana for more information.

WOMEN'S PRAYER GROUP
Meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 7:00 pm in the Prayer Room at church.  All women are invited to attend.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

 LOVE AND RESPECT CONFERENCE
March 2-3, Friday night and Saturday morning

The conference will be held at Calvary Chapel in Philly.  The cost is $35 per person (before Feb 20th).  You can register by going to www.loveandrespect.com and choosing the Philadelphia conference.  Since this conference is within driving distance, it is a very economical way to build your marriage.  Of course, there are local hotels available, so you can also make it into a weekend getaway if you'd like.  But whether your marriage is everything you want it to be or not, it is always beneficial to spend a few days focused on one another.   You won't be disappointed in what God does if you take this opportunity!

PS - the "Weekend to Remember" conference that we've attended the past several years is also available locally including Hershey Pa in February, the Poconos in March, and Washington DC in March and April... for more information about this conference, you can go to www.familylife.com and go to Weekend to Remember.

 

SMALL GROUPS
Small Groups are starting up again after our holiday hiatus!  New study sheets are out in the back of the auditorium, or you can print a copy right from our website!  At Small Groups, we'll take a look at how the Bible emphasizes God's plan for us to grow and be healthy through relationships within our spiritual family.  Anyone still looking for a Small Group to plug into can see Damon Briggs; he will help you get connected!

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP
Wednesdays from 7:00 – 8:30
This is a great mid-week boost for our teens to stay connected, grow in the Lord, and have a fun time with each other!  See Dave Hallahan with any questions.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

DO YOU "LIKE" HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP          ?
For those of you on Facebook, this is just a reminder for the new year to go on our Facebook page and "like" it so you can keep up with what's happening.  It's a great way to stay current with all the activities at Hope.  Don't forget our Young Adults and our Youth Groups pages as well.  Even if you don't fall into that age category, it's fun to check them out and see what they're up to.  Plus, fun pictures get posted!

 

OPPORTUNITES TO SERVE

Do you want to truly feel like you are a vital and connected part of Hope?  Then find a place where you can serve!  Here are some ideas!

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM
We are still in need of a helper for our 4-5 year old classes and a teacher/helper for our 2-3 year old classes.  Please search your heart to see if God is calling you to help with this ministry.  We will have to cancel classes if we do not get the volunteers we need.

Contact Jen Winstel at jenwinrn@comcast.net  or Pastor Mark to volunteer.

 

COFFEE CLEANUP CREW

The coffee cleanup crew could use a few more helpers!  This is a quick and easy way to serve all of our church friends!  Please contact Al Lewis at Lewis@voorhees.k12.nj.us

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY MEETING
Sunday, January 15^th
We are in need of a few new teams for the Toddler and Pre-K/Kindergarten classes for the upcoming year.  We will have a quick meeting with all Toddler and Pre-K/Kindergarten teachers and helps, along with anyone who might be interested in serving this ministry.  We will be meeting the Toddler Room.  Contact Franne Harkin (fhark7@yahoo.com) with any questions.

 

VBS PROGRAM 2012 MEETING – THIS SUNDAY
January 8th
We are excited that so many people showed an interest in coordinating VBS at our first meeting!  We will have another meeting immediately following the morning service January 8^th.

MEALS MINISTRY
Needs Team is updating the Rotating Meals Ministry list.  We could use some other willing hearts to prepare the occasional meal for a family during a time of need.  Anyone who would like to be added to this list please see Lorraine Otis or contact her atlorraineotis@comcast.net

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Want to help us with the most effective and powerful ministry at Hope?  Join in as part of our Kid's Ministry!  Here's what to do:
          Nursery
                   Contact Brian or Naidona Ott
                   856-589-2047 or ottbriant@netscape.net
          Toddlers & Preschool
                   Contact Franne Harkin
                   609-458-2124 or fhark7@yahoo.com
          Elementary
                   Contact Anita Little
                   856-783-7168 or alittleshopper@gmail.com
          Wednesday Night Program
                   Contact Jen Winstel
                   856-782-7798 or jenwinrn@comcast.net

SOUND AND MEDIA TEAM
Our Sound and Media Team can always use more helpers.  Don't be scared; they will train you!  Contact Steve Jones for sound at jones.stephen.d@gmail.com or Jim Bradshaw at spaceheadjim@yahoo.com for media.

Just pick where you would be most interested in helping and give that person a call. They will fill you in on the current needs and tell you whatever you need to know!

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS
Nursery -                       TBA
Toddlers                        Ardra Jarvis and Natalie
Pre K – Kindergarten    Tina & Craig Campana
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Rick Mounce & Damon Briggs
Greeters                        John Brazelis
                                       Lucille Franchetti
                                      Lisa Fiorile
                                      Helen Mastalski
Wed. Evening                TBA

HOPES PRAYER TEAM
If you have a prayer request, please fill out a prayer request card and drop it in the offering slot at the back of the church on Sunday or use the "Prayer Request Form" on our website. If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Jim Bradshaw directly at Prayer@hopechristianfellowship.org.

PRAYER REQUESTS
Jerry & Carol Bryt – For Carol's father who is in the hospital after a massive stroke.  He has been taken off all support and they are simply waiting.  Please pray for peace as they prepare to say goodbye.
Youth Pastor – Please pray for our new Youth Pastor, Dave Hallahan, as he beings the task of ministering to our teens, planning programs for them, and moving forward with God's call on his life here at Hope.
Kids Ministry Director.  Please pray for God to connect us with the right people at the right time and let Him have His work in all of this!
Young Adults – Please pray that God would give the young adults here at Hope a heart for our new ministry so that they can grow in the Lord and forge closer relationships with each other.

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people." Ephesians 6:18

The Babe is Born,
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 Hopenotes Email.