Hope Notes 3/29/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

I grew up in the Catholic Church and the month before Easter was a h-u-g-e deal and time for us to show our devotion to God by giving up something for Lent.  Now, as a born again believer celebrating Easter in a non-denominational church, I just realized that Lent has been going on and I haven't "done" a thing!  Does this make me a bad Christian?  Am I not concerned with the awesome sacrifice Jesus made for me?  Well, I read something that helped shed a little light on that for me and thought I would share it with you all.

 

 Food for thought:  "Lent is a sacrifice training ground.  It's a time to exercise your faith muscle, to focus your eyes on Jesus, the sacrifice that all the rest hinge on.  Lent is good, but we should want to live the rest of our lives punctuated by sacrifice.  We should want to expect miracles from a God who takes our little sacrifices and turns them into a door through which the supernatural can burst into our world."

SUNDAY MESSAGE

4/1 – Hoping for Good News (2 Samuel 18:19-33)

Which would you rather hear – good news or bad news?  Of course, we'd all rather hear good news!  But there is a strange reality to life… bad news always speaks louder than good news.  If you get both at the same time, the likelihood is that you'll fixate on what you didn't want to hear instead of celebrating what you did want to hear.  In our story in David's life, we'll take a look at this reality as David waits for news of his son, Absalom.  And we'll find out that God understands this human experience – He doesn't criticize us for being impacted by bad news.  Instead, He goes through those experiences with us.

 

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE
Friday, April 6th at 7:00
Please join us for our Good Friday service this year.  It is a special time when we get together as a church to remember Jesus' sacrifice for each one of us.  We will have Communion and share for about an hour together in music, scripture readings, and prayer.  We will also be taking a benevolent offering for the needy. Don't miss this powerful evening on the weekend that we commemorate together the death and resurrection of our Savior!

 

SUNDAY SERVICE APRIL 22^ND

Block Party Info

During worship this Sunday, Pastor Mark will be talking about the Block Party (May 19^th).  This day will be an opportunity to find out exactly what we're doing for the Block Party and what kind of help we need to make this a success. We will have people at various signup stations so that volunteers can pick the area they wish to help in and signup right there!

We want to encourage everyone to make an extra effort to come out for church this day so that you are here to know what's going on and to offer your much needed help!

 

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 APRIL – 2^nd TIMOTHY
2^nd Timothy is the last letter Paul wrote before being executed, and it reveals his loneliness and isolation.  Through it all, however, Paul seems at peace with his plight – knowing that he has finished the work God sent him to do.  Paul takes the time to remind Timothy of his responsibility to continue the work of God, and he shows that suffering (or even dying) for service to Christ is a spiritual honor.  This letter reminds us that no matter how our lives end, or how we may be treated for our faith, by "fighting the good fight" we end up winners.

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.

 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Week of July 16, 2012

Mark your calendars and be a part of Backstage with the Bible, our first VBS event!  Age levels for classes are Preschool through Grade 6.  Make sure your kids don't miss out on this fun packed week!  Invite their friends to come, too!  Program begins Monday, July 16^th and runs from 6:15 till 8:45pm.

For more information, contact Erin at ecl6292@comcast.net, Harriet at habrittingham@yahoo.com, or Anne at annemarie523@juno.com.

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

 

WOMEN'S WEEKEND – LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

March 30^th – April 1^st

Calvary Chapel of Delaware County is taking part in the Women's Weekend at Sandy Cove in North East MD.  The program includes sessions led by Debbi Bryson and Sherri Youngward, workshops, activities, and prayer.

For more information, contact CCDC at 610-459-8111 or www.ccdelco.com.

 

HCF SOFTBALL TEAM

If you can put on a baseball glove, a pair of cleats, and swing a bat – the HCF Softball Team needs you!  We have a co-ed team; open to anyone who turns 15 or older before April. See Lenny Little with any questions.  Signup sheet is in the back.

 

HCF BLOCK PARTY

Saturday May 19^th

It's not too early to mark your calendars for this special day! We're going to need 'all hands on deck' to make this a success, so we wanted to get that date out to everyone right now so that we can save the date on our calendars.

 

ITEMS NEEDED FOR BLOCK PARTY

We are in need of several 10'x10' tents.  If anyone has tents or information on tents, please see Pastor Mark or Dana.

 

BLOCK PARTY VENDOR FORM         

Are you a crafter, or do you have a business that you would like to promote?  Consider reserving booth space at our Block Party to sell or advertise your items.  Pick up a vendor application in the resource room.  Vendor application form will also be available soon on our church website (www.hopechristianfellowship.org) so that you can print one from there.  Feel free to pass on this information to other vendors you may know.  See Damon Briggs or Ellen Lewis with questions.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST

Second Saturday of Every Month

8:30 am

Come and join us for a delicious breakfast and a good time of fellowship/sharing with the men of Hope.  Feel free to bring a friend!  Open to men 18 and older.  If anyone would like to help set-up and/or prepare, we meet in the kitchen at 7:00 am. See Bob Rice with any questions

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our small groups are finishing up for this season.  They run through the end of April - the last study sheet will be out on 4/29.  Please make sure your small group is getting your last meetings in and that you're there!  And then take these summer months to keep up with each other on a less formal basis.  It is also a great opportunity to connect with a few others outside of your small group. 

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.

 

YOUTH RETREAT

April 20th-22nd @ Delanco Camp.
Early registration is $95.00.  Any registration within a week of the retreat will be $125. Students who attend five Wednesday night meetings from February through the retreat will receive $25 towards their registration fee and those who attend ten meetings will receive $50. More information can be attained through contacting Dave Hallahan (dmhallahan5@gmail.com or 856-340-8519) or from Delanco.org.  Be sure to register all students with Dave. A down payment of $45 will be required at time of registration.  Registration forms are located in the Resource Room.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

MARCH GIVING

We averaged $5730 per week in giving for March, which brings our annual weekly giving average to $5281.  This definitely meets our target of $5000 per week and allows us to not only save toward our major projects, but also to save towards the other challenges God has ahead of us!

 

PARKING 

Please help us maximize our parking by using spaces on the grass around the parking lot.  We're going to try to park two deep in the grass, and try to use all the space in the parking field.  As we look towards Easter, we want to do all that we can to allow space for each person coming.  SO if Hope is your church, please help us.  Obviously, be careful if there has been rain......we don't want anyone getting stuck out there!

 

REFRIGERATOR NEEDED

We are looking to replace one full freezer in our kitchen with a large refrigerator.  If anyone has one that they would be willing to donate to the church, please let one of our deacons know.

 

FREE STAND UP FREEZER

We have one full size freezer in our kitchen that we don't need. It is free to anyone who would use it.  It is the one next to the double doors at the back of the kitchen.  Please see Bob Baumiester if you are interested.

 

 

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!

 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Our first VBS adventure begins the week of July 16^th.  Classes run from Preschool through Grade 6.  We need plenty of teachers, helpers, and volunteers.  There's something for everyone to plug into!  For more information, contact Erin at ecl6292@comcast.net, Harriet at habrittingham@yahoo.com, or Anne at annemarie523@juno.com.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING KIDS PROGRAM

Our Wednesday night kids programs are coming to an end for this year at the end of April and will restart in September.  The Leadership Team is working on a plan for the kids on Wednesday nights for May and June.  If anyone is interested in taking this ministry to our preschoolers (3-5yrs) or elementary kids (1st-5th grades), please let Pastor Mark know right away.

 

CHILDRENS' MINISTRY TEACHERS NEEDED

We are in need of two teachers ASAP for the 1^st-3^rd grade class.  Please contact Anita Little if interested at alittleshopper@gmail.com or phone 856-373-2090.

 

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 at lorraineotis@comcast.net.

 

FOOD PANTRY

We are in need of the following items:

Pop Tarts

Applesauce

Cereal Bars

Coffee

Please remember to check the expiration dates and put all donations in the basket located outside the kitchen door.

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 -                       Kacy Maska, Kristy Straub
Toddlers                        Rebecca & John, Abbey Harkin, Richard Bunnell
Pre K – Kindergarten    Tina & Greg Campana
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Karen Jones, Lois Hartwell
Greeters                        Tony Dariano
                                       Mickey Dariano
                                      Dorothy Haines
                                      Diane Beardsworth
Wed. Evening Workers  (N) Lucy Muhlbaier, Charlotte Zediker (4-5) 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

Good Friday & Easter Service – Please pray and prepare for our services as we work together to make sure our visitors feel like we are ready for them and happy that they came.  Also, remember our kids' workers for that day – the ministry to our children on Easter is unbelievably important!
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!

"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

Forever 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.

 

 

NEED

 

METAL DETECTOR

The Needs Team is looking to see if anyone at Hope has a Metal Detector? Someone at Hope has a father who is battling prostate cancer. He is feeling well enough to take his wife to a NC beach for the month of April. His daughter would love to give him this as a gift and feels it would be relaxing fun for him, his wife, and the grand kids who will be visiting as well. If you or anyone you know has one they would like to get rid of or sell, please contact Jim Bradshaw at: spaceheadjim@yahoo.com

hope notes 3/22/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

Have you picked up your copy of our newest church directory yet?  It's a thing of wonder – color photographs and a spiral ring binder!  We are getting so "fancy"!  Don't let it sit around collecting dust or get lost under a pile of papers.  Take it out and USE it!  Study the names and faces.  Write someone an encouraging note.  Pick up the phone and call someone.  Use it as a prayer directory.  Just think – if we all went through the directory name by name and offered up a prayer for each one, even if it was only one name per day – what an awesome amount of prayer that would be!  I'd like to send out a big thank you to everyone involved in putting this resource together for us!

SUNDAY MESSAGE

3/25 – No Winners (2 Samuel 18:1-18)

One of the ways police identify the people who commit crimes is by the use of fingerprints.  The marks left behind by people are unique and let the authorities connect the wrong-doer with the deed because their identifying marks are on the objects they touched.  In a very similar way, the results that come from rejecting God are very distinctive.  It is almost like you can know where the situation will wind up as soon as you decide to push God's direction aside.  James tells us that sin always brings destruction in our lives.  In David's life, we have been seeing the destruction that came from his choices and Absalom's choices to do their own thing instead of following the Lord.  What we'll see is that almost no matter how you look at it in the end, there are no winners when God is not the one in charge.

 

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE
Friday, April 6th at 7:00
Please join us for our Good Friday service this year.  It is a special time when we get together as a church to remember Jesus' sacrifice for each one of us.  We will have Communion and share for about an hour together in music, scripture readings, and prayer.  We will also be taking a benevolent offering for the needy. Don't miss this powerful evening on the weekend that we commemorate together the death and resurrection of our Savior!

 

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 MARCH – LUKE
Written by a physician, Luke outlines the life of Christ in far more detail than any of the other three Gospels.  Modern, secular historians have checked the accuracy of Luke's record and have come away impressed – he just didn't make any historical errors.  But, far more than history, Luke's Gospel records the central point in the history of God's relationship to us – the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ – and emphasizes the importance of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit.  

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.

 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Week of July 16, 2012

Mark your calendars and be a part of Backstage with the Bible, our first VBS event!  Age levels for classes are Preschool through Grade 6.  Make sure your kids don't miss out on this fun packed week!  Invite their friends to come, too!  Program begins Monday, July 16^th and runs from 6:15 till 8:45pm.

For more information, contact Erin at ecl6292@comcast.net, Harriet at habrittingham@yahoo.com, or Anne at annemarie523@juno.com.

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

 

WOMEN'S WEEKEND – LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

March 30^th – April 1^st

Calvary Chapel of Delaware County is taking part in the Women's Weekend at Sandy Cove in North East MD.  The program includes sessions led by Debbi Bryson and Sherri Youngward, workshops, activities, and prayer.

For more information, contact CCDC at 610-459-8111 or www.ccdelco.com.

 

HCF SOFTBALL TEAM

If you can put on a baseball glove, a pair of cleats, and swing a bat – the HCF Softball Team needs you!  We have a co-ed team; open to anyone who turns 15 or older before April. See Lenny Little with any questions.  Signup sheet is in the back.

 

HCF BLOCK PARTY

Saturday May 19^th

It's not too early to mark your calendars for this special day!  This is the first of two main outreach events for our community this year. 

We're going to need 'all hands on deck' to make this a success, so we wanted to get that date out to everyone right now so that we can save the date on our calendars.  In the next month, we'll be asking for help in all kind of areas, from food, to games, to give-aways, to vendor or crafter tables, to parking and setup and cleanup.  There is more to do than we've ever done before, but we are excited for what God is going to do as we reach out to our community on that day.  Keep watching for more information in the coming weeks!

 

ITEMS NEEDED FOR BLOCK PARTY

We are in the planning stages for this big event and there are a few items we are looking for right now:

Several 10 x 10 tents

                             Carnival type games

 

If anyone has these items available, please let Pastor Mark of Dana know.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST

Second Saturday of Every Month

8:30 am

Come and join us for a delicious breakfast and a good time of fellowship/sharing with the men of Hope.  Feel free to bring a friend!  Open to men 18 and older.  If anyone would like to help set-up and/or prepare, we meet in the kitchen at 7:00 am. See Bob Rice with any questions

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our small groups are finishing up for this season.  They run through the end of April - the last study sheet will be out on 4/29.  Please make sure your small group is getting your last meetings in and that you're there!  And then take these summer months to keep up with each other on a less formal basis.  It is also a great opportunity to connect with a few others outside of your small group. 

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.

 

YOUTH RETREAT

April 20th-22nd @ Delanco Camp.
Early registration is $95.00.  Any registration within a week of the retreat will be $125. Students who attend five Wednesday night meetings from February through the retreat will receive $25 towards their registration fee and those who attend ten meetings will receive $50. More information can be attained through contacting Dave Hallahan (dmhallahan5@gmail.com or 856-340-8519) or from Delanco.org.  Be sure to register all students with Dave. A down payment of $45 will be required at time of registration.  Registration forms are located in the Resource Room.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

RESOURCE ROOM GOODIES
Don't forget to check out all the reading material we have available for FREE in our Resource Room.  If you're looking for something to help you grow closer to the Lord, this would be a great place to pick up some books or devotionals.  This quarter's "Daily Bread" devotionals have just come in and are ready for the taking!

 

HOPE'S MISSIONARY BOARDS

Want to learn more about Hope's missionaries and find out how to connect with them?  Check out our new missionary bulletin boards, located in the hallway outside of the children's classrooms.  Continue to check back every so often for new information and updates.

 

REFRIGERATOR NEEDED

We are looking to replace one full freezer in our kitchen with a large refrigerator.  If anyone has one that they would be willing to donate to the church, please let one of our deacons know.

 

FREE CHRISTMAS TREE

Anyone needing a 6' artificial Christmas tree can contact Ken Blythe at 856-237-5373.

 

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.

 

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!

 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Our first VBS adventure begins the week of July 16^th.  Classes run from Preschool through Grade 6.  We need plenty of teachers, helpers, and volunteers.  There's something for everyone to plug into!  For more information, contact Erin at ecl6292@comcast.net, Harriet at habrittingham@yahoo.com, or Anne at annemarie523@juno.com.

 

WEDNESDAY EVENING KIDS PROGRAM

Our Wednesday night kids programs are coming to an end for this year at the end of April and will restart in September.  The Leadership Team is working on a plan for the kids on Wednesday nights for May and June.  If anyone is interested in taking this ministry to our preschoolers (3-5yrs) or elementary kids (1st-5th grades), please let Pastor Mark know right away.

 

CHURCH SPRING CLEANING DAY – THIS SATURDAY

Saturday, March 24^th 9:00 – 12:00

In anticipation of Easter Sunday (and all our visitors!), we will be sprucing up Hope inside and out! 

Outside:  mulching, weeding, general clean-up.  Inside: windows.  Please bring gloves, wheelbarrows, any lawn tools you like to use, and a willing heart. There is no sign-up; just come and give as much time as you are able!  See Brad Hopkins or Glenn Johnson for further information.

 

CHILDRENS' MINISTRY TEACHERS NEEDED

We are in need of two teachers ASAP for the 1^st-3^rd grade class.  Please contact Anita Little if interested at alittleshopper@gmail.com or phone 856-373-2090.

 

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 at lorraineotis@comcast.net.

 

FOOD PANTRY

We are in need of the following items:

Pop Tarts

Applesauce

Cereal Bars

Coffee

Please remember to check the expiration dates and put all donations in the basket located outside the kitchen door.

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 -                       Kacy Maska, Kristy Straub
Toddlers                        Ardra Jarvis, Joyce James, Sammy Swedo, Adeyemi O.
Pre K – Kindergarten    Tina & Greg Campana
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Kathy Berry, Carole Baumiester
Greeters                        Mike Hartwell
                                       Matt Austen
                                      Lisa Minner
                                      Emily Hartwell
Wed. Evening Workers  (N) John & Dawn Brazelis (4-5) Linda Landis

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

Good Friday & Easter Service – Please pray and prepare for our services as we work together to make sure our visitors feel like we are ready for them and happy that they came.  Also, remember our kids' workers for that day – the ministry to our children on Easter is unbelievably important!

Lauren Pupchick – Our missionary is asking for prayer as she returns to Guatemala on March 21^st; she has been feeling a lot of spiritual warfare and would ask like our prayers for strength and victory in Jesus' name as she goes forward.
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!

"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

Hosanna in the Highest,
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.

 

 

A message from the Hoffman family.....

To Our Church Family at Hope ~

MOM (Ruth McDevitt) mother of six will be dearly missed by all. Mom is a believer, and was not healthy when God called her home.......God is truly merciful.

 We will be having a service and celebration of her life on Saturday down at the shore. That's where we were raised, and where Mom still resided until her death.

 Just wanted our church family to know how much we have appreciated all the prayers.  Look forward to worshiping with you all Sunday the 24th.

 All our love,
  The Hoffman Family.......

Hope Notes 3/15/12

Dear Friends of Hope~

I was sitting outside the bank yesterday staring at the row of shrubs in front.  I noticed two lone daffodils sticking up over the evergreens.  I wondered if there was a second layer of dirt on top somehow – how else could they appear over the bushes?  Curious, I got out of the car and went over to look.  There was no hidden second row; they had simply pushed their way up from the ground, through the bushes, and over the top.  They had to be at least 2 ½' high!  They didn't fall over because they were supported by the evergreens.  Such tenacious little flowers!  I admired their determination to bloom, no matter the hindrance they faced.  How persistent are we in the face of obstacles?  If I liken myself to those flowers and the Lord to the evergreens, then I must conclude that we can overcome difficulties and "bloom", but only with the support and strength of our Lord.

SUNDAY MESSAGE

3/18 – Playing Chess with God (2 Samuel 17)

Moves and counter moves – chess is definitely a game of strategy!  You try to anticipate what your opponent will do and use your moves to overcome theirs.  Or you work to go on the attack and make the other side react to what you're doing.  Either way, you feel like playing the game is a battle over strategies and control.  Some people try to play a game like that with God.  They think they can out-maneuver Him.  They gather their strategies and wisdom and put their plan into action, thinking that they will gain control of their lives or circumstances.  In our story of David's life, we see Absalom and his men thinking exactly that way.  They are confident that the discussions they are having will guarantee Absalom's security and success as Israel's new king.  But we'll see that they couldn't win at this game when they were playing against God!

 

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE
Friday, April 6th at 7:00
Please join us for our Good Friday service this year.  It is a special time when we get together as a church to remember Jesus' sacrifice for each one of us.  We will have Communion and share for about an hour together in music, scripture readings, and prayer.  We will also be taking a benevolent offering for the needy. Don't miss this powerful evening on the weekend that we commemorate together the death and resurrection of our Savior!

 

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 MARCH – LUKE
Written by a physician, Luke outlines the life of Christ in far more detail than any of the other three Gospels.  Modern, secular historians have checked the accuracy of Luke's record and have come away impressed – he just didn't make any historical errors.  But, far more than history, Luke's Gospel records the central point in the history of God's relationship to us – the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ – and emphasizes the importance of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit.  

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

 

WOMEN'S WEEKEND – LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

March 30^th – April 1^st

Calvary Chapel of Delaware County is taking part in the Women's Weekend at Sandy Cove in North East MD.  The program includes sessions led by Debbi Bryson and Sherri Youngward, workshops, activities, and prayer.

For more information, contact CCDC at 610-459-8111 or www.ccdelco.com.

 

HCF SOFTBALL TEAM

If you can put on a baseball glove, a pair of cleats, and swing a bat – the HCF Softball Team needs you!  We have a co-ed team; open to anyone who turns 15 or older before April. See Lenny Little with any questions.  Signup sheet is in the back.

 

HCF BLOCK PARTY

Saturday May 19^th

It's not too early to mark your calendars for this special day!  This is the first of two main outreach events for our community this year. 

We're going to need 'all hands on deck' to make this a success, so we wanted to get that date out to everyone right now so that we can save the date on our calendars.  In the next month, we'll be asking for help in all kind of areas, from food, to games, to give-aways, to vendor or crafter tables, to parking and setup and cleanup.  There is more to do than we've ever done before, but we are excited for what God is going to do as we reach out to our community on that day.  Keep watching for more information in the coming weeks!

 

ITEMS NEEDED FOR BLOCK PARTY

We are in the planning stages for this big event and there are a few items we are looking for right now:

Several 10 x 10 tents

                             Carnival type games

 

If anyone has these items available, please let Pastor Mark of Dana know.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST

Second Saturday of Every Month

8:30 am

Come and join us for a delicious breakfast and a good time of fellowship/sharing with the men of Hope.  Feel free to bring a friend!  Open to men 18 and older.  If anyone would like to help set-up and/or prepare, we meet in the kitchen at 7:00 am. See Bob Rice with any questions

 

SMALL GROUPS

Our small groups are finishing up for this season.  They run through the end of April - the last study sheet will be out on 4/29.  Please make sure your small group is getting your last meetings in and that you're there!  And then take these summer months to keep up with each other on a less formal basis.  It is also a great opportunity to connect with a few others outside of your small group. 

 

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.

 

YOUTH RETREAT

April 20th-22nd @ Delanco Camp.
Early registration is $95.00.  Any registration within a week of the retreat will be $125. Students who attend five Wednesday night meetings from February through the retreat will receive $25 towards their registration fee and those who attend ten meetings will receive $50. More information can be attained through contacting Dave Hallahan (dmhallahan5@gmail.com or 856-340-8519) or from Delanco.org.  Be sure to register all students with Dave. A down payment of $45 will be required at time of registration.  Registration forms are located in the Resource Room.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

RESOURCE ROOM GOODIES
Don't forget to check out all the reading material we have available for FREE in our Resource Room.  If you're looking for something to help you grow closer to the Lord, this would be a great place to pick up some books or devotionals.  This quarter's "Daily Bread" devotionals have just come in and are ready for the taking!

 

HOPE'S MISSIONARY BOARDS

Want to learn more about Hope's missionaries and find out how to connect with them?  Check out our new missionary bulletin boards, located in the hallway outside of the children's classrooms.  Continue to check back every so often for new information and updates.

 

REFRIGERATOR NEEDED

We are looking to replace one full freezer in our kitchen with a large refrigerator.  If anyone has one that they would be willing to donate to the church, please let one of our deacons know.

 

WEBSITE LUNCHEON – THIS SUNDAY

Sunday March 18^th

We are going to hold a lunch meeting after church on March 18th for anyone who is interested in helping us with our church website.  We want to make our website everything it needs to be in order to help those checking out our church get a good feel for who we are and what we're about.  If you have experience with websites, or are a writer or photographer or graphic designer, we'd like you on our team.  The lunch will be a chance for us to gather everyone interested and organize so that we can keep our website fresh and informational. Coming to the lunch doesn't mean you are committed, but we are praying that God will draw together the right team to work together on this powerful tool. 

 

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.

 

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 KIDS PROGRAM

Our Wednesday night kids programs are coming to an end for this year at the end of April and will restart in September.  The Leadership Team is working on a plan for the kids on Wednesday nights for May and June.  If anyone is interested in taking this ministry to our preschoolers (3-5yrs) or elementary kids (1st-5th grades), please let Pastor Mark know right away.

 

CHURCH SPRING CLEANING DAY

Saturday, March 24^th 9:00 – 12:00

In anticipation of Easter Sunday (and all our visitors!), we will be sprucing up Hope inside and out! 

Outside:  mulching, weeding, general clean-up.  Inside: windows.  Please bring gloves, wheelbarrows, any lawn tools you like to use, and a willing heart. There is no sign-up; just come and give as much time as you are able!  See Brad Hopkins or Glenn Johnson for further information.

 

CHILDRENS' MINISTRY TEACHERS NEEDED

We are in need of two teachers ASAP for the 1^st-3^rd grade class.  Please contact Anita Little if interested at alittleshopper@gmail.com or phone 856-373-2090.

 

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 at lorraineotis@comcast.net.

 

FOOD PANTRY

We are in need of the following items:

Pop Tarts

Applesauce

Cereal Bars

Coffee

Please remember to check the expiration dates and put all donations in the basket located outside the kitchen door.

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 -                       Nicole Babli, Mallory Pantaleo
Toddlers                        Ardra Jarvis, Joyce James, Sammy Swedo, Adeyemi O.
Pre K – Kindergarten    Franne Harkin, Maurice Brazelis, Jake Gotshall
1^st – 5^th                           TBA
Counters                        Kathy Berry, Carole Baumiester
Greeters                        Mike Hartwell
                                       Matt Austen
                                      Lisa Minner
                                      Emily Hartwell
Wed. Evening Workers  (N) Damon Briggs, Katrina Mariani (4-5) Charlotte Zediker

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

Good Friday & Easter Service – Please pray and prepare for our services as we work together to make sure our visitors feel like we are ready for them and happy that they came.  Also, remember our kids' workers for that day – the ministry to our children on Easter is unbelievably important!

Lauren Pupchick – Our missionary is asking for prayer as she returns to Guatemala on March 21^st; she has been feeling a lot of spiritual warfare and would ask like our prayers for strength and victory in Jesus' name as she goes forward.
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!

"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

Humbled by the Cross,
Lois

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