Hope Notes 7/28/16

Dear Friends of Hope ~

So, Olive started her post-surgical physical therapy this week.  One of the things she is required to do is walk on an underwater treadmill.  She doesn't like being in the tank OR in the water, but she obediently walks alongside the therapist.  How do we get her to do this?  It's all about the chicken!  A dried out piece of chicken jerky dangled at the end of the treadmill by yours truly.  (For those of you who are new to Hope Notes, perhaps I'd better mention that Olive is a pup – not a child!)  When she spies that chicken, her little legs begin to move and she fixes her eyes on that delicacy with a laser focus.  I couldn't help it; I immediately thought of two Bible verses that reflect her single minded determination.  First off is this verse: "Run in such a way as to get the prize."  (1Cor 9:24b)  For Olive, that prize was the chicken.  And run she did! The next verse that came to mind was this: "…….but one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Phil 3:13-14)  This is exactly what she did – she forgot all about the pain in her leg and her fear of the water and began straining towards that elusive treat with everything she had!  What about us? Can we move forward with such dedication and purpose? God's great goal is for us to pursue the prize of intimacy with Christ and our eternal reward in heaven.  If we set our earthly goals on heavenly gains, we will have a prize about a million times better than a dried out slab of chicken!

SUNDAY MORNING MESSAGE

7/31 – Without Faith (Hebrews 11:6)

VBS Closing

"Without" is a word with really bad vibes.  If you are "without" money or friends or hope, you are a person who is really having a rough time!  For some, the answer is to gather 'more' so that they will never be 'without'.  But they find that what they gather doesn't always fill in the gap for what they are 'without'.  Today we're going to talk about what God calls the key to everything: Faith.  And we're going to look at how being 'without faith' changes everything.  Maybe it is better to say that when we have faith, our lives work the way they are supposed to.  What kind of faith do we need?  And do you have it?

 

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.

 

PRAYER HUDDLE

8:40 – 8:45 for Both Services

The prayer huddle is open to anyone who would like to come pray - but it is specifically intended for those who are serving on that Sunday.  So if you're scheduled to be in kids' ministry, greeting, in the tech booth, on worship team, or any other ministry role for a given Sunday, join us at 8:40 sharp to pray together for God's power in each of us.  We can do all things through Christ, and nothing of worth without Him, so let's come together each Sunday to ask for God's Spirit to fill us and use us!

 

SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

8:30 in Pastor Mark's Office
Do you have a heart for prayer? Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Questions?  See Bob Baumiester.  "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

 

JULY CHALLENGE VERSE

Colossians 3:1-2

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:00 pm

Join us as we dig into 1Corinthians and gain a deeper understanding of God's Word and its application to our daily lives.  Childcare is available.

Please Note:  We are taking a break from our regular Bible Study during the month of July.

 

YOUNG ADULTS

7:30 in Youth Room

First and Third Monday of every month

Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome.  Contact Dave or Leah Hallahan at dmhallahan5@gmail.com.  Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

MEN'S EVENING SHOOT

Friday, August 5^th

Calling all men!  We're heading out to Quinton Sportsman's Club in Salem County for a manly evening of target shooting.  Cost is $20 for a round of 25 shots and dinner. (Always an option to bring your own shells!)  We are meeting at the church at 6:00pm.  For anyone who prefers to meet us at the club, we plan to arrive at 7:00 pm.   The address is 346 Jericho Road, Salem NJ  08079. We expect to end sometime between 9:00 and 10:00 pm.  Please sign up on the sheet in the lobby so that we can be sure to have enough ammo and shotguns.  See Steve Jones with any questions.

 

ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC – THIS SUNDAY

Sunday, July 31^st @ 5:00

What better way to spend a summer Sunday than a morning of worship and then an evening of family fun at our church picnic?!  Make sure you come back with the whole family.  We'll have games and inflatables and, of course, lots of food!  We provide the hot dogs and drinks – you can sign up to bring sides and desserts.  Signup sheets are in the lobby.

 

SET UP FOR CHURCH PICNIC – THIS SUNDAY

Free Pizza & Water!

We need as many people as possible to set up tables after the second service. As a thank you for helping, we are providing pizza and water for everyone!  See Melissa McGinness or Scott LeBeau if you have questions.

 

MOVIE NIGHT

Sunday, August 7^th @ 6:00

Bring your family to Hope's FREE Movie Night!  We'll be showing "Do You Believe?"  This film invites Christians to take inventory of whether or not they truly believe and to the LIVE like they believe!  It also reaches out to anyone who is lost or hurting with a message of real hope.  There will be a movie just for our kids as well.  We'll have all kinds of movie candy, popcorn, soda…….oh and a few healthy snacks and bottled water, too.  But hey, this is movie night!!  Indulge and enjoy!

 

HOPE'S SUMMER CAFÉ

Sunday, August 14^th @ 6:00

Everyone looks forward to our café – it's such a fun time to get together and enjoy each other's company……and lots of yummy treats!  Not only that, but we get to see our fellow Hopers display their hidden talents!  Look for a signup sheet coming soon in the lobby.  You can sign up for talent and/or for what snack you will bring.  See Kimmi Biglin with any questions.

 

GOD'S GIRLS WOMEN'S GROUP

Mondays at 7:00

The Bible tells us we are wonderfully made - but why do our emotions seem so complicated? That's what we'll be talking about as we resume meeting this Monday.  We will begin studying Patsy Clairmont's book, "I Second That Emotion." Join us as we learn what makes us tick, and how God would like us to respond to the crazy emotions we all share. Signup sheets are in the lobby, or contact Mary Lebeau (316-6301/marylebeau@verizon.com) for information.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST

Second Saturday of Every Month

8:00 – 9:30am

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. See Steve Jones with any questions.

 

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP

Our middle school and high school groups meet at the church on Sundays from 6:30-8:30 all year long! Come out for another amazing year as we grow closer together and closer to God!

 

ROOTED

We are taking a break over the summer but will resume again in September.  See you then!

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEWS

 

GO ZONE

Go Zone is our Sunday Morning kid's service, planned especially for 1^st - 5^th graders.  Our goal is to encourage the kids to live with their focus on "GOing for GOD, GOing for GROWTH, and GOing FOREVER!" This service includes worship, games, and exploring important biblical truths in fun and creative ways before heading off to Sunday school.

Follow HopeKids! Ministries on Facebook at:  facebook.com/HCFHopeKids

 

                                                                                ANNOUNCEMENTS 

 

PRISON MINISTRY SUPPORT

Once again, we have two of our very own (Jim Jefferson & Bill McGinness) participating in this unique prison ministry that reaches inmates with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through athletics. Statistics show that the vast majority of prisoners will not attend a traditional religious program such as a chapel service or Bible study. However, inmates will gladly attend sporting events at which a gospel message is shared.

The commitment to serve in this ministry requires many sacrifices on their part, not just the personal time spent away from their families, but a financial sacrifice as well.  We can help them through prayer and through giving donations as we feel the Lord's leading.  If you would like to contribute, please see Bill or Jim and they will give you the details on how best to give.

 

ENVELOPES FOR DESIGNATED GIVING

If God has laid it on your heart to give a little something extra for His kingdom, we have provided envelopes for you to do so!  These are not for your usual Sunday offering; they are for you to use if you'd like to give to a special project or ministry.  The envelopes are in a wall mounted bin next to our regular offering slot.

 

ONLINE GIVING TO SUPPORT HOPE

It's easy and convenient!  Simply go to our website at www.hopechristianfellowship.org  and click Online Giving.  Text to Give is coming soon!  More information will follow.  Contact Damon (damon.briggs@mitchellandness.com) or LaTosha (usafinancial2000@hotmail.com) Briggs with questions.

 

HAVE OUR ELDERS PRAY WITH YOU

The New Testament has this wonderful ministry for the elders of a church - PRAYER.  And we'd like to offer it to anyone who is in need of healing (physical or otherwise) or who needs the power of God to be at work in their lives in a special way.  If you or anyone you know would like to take advantage of this ministry, contact Pastor Mark to set up a time after one of our Sunday services for the elders to pray over you.

 

OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE

 

CONNECTING AND SERVING AT HOPE

There are so many places to connect and serve here at Hope.  Keep your eyes on this section to be aware of all the different opportunities for you to effectively serve at Hope. There truly IS 'something for everyone' and we want to make it easy for you to know all the different options!

 

FIRST RESPONDERS SECURITY TEAM

We are in the beginning stages of establishing a Security Team here at Hope in the (unlikely) event of an emergency situation taking place during the service.  We want to be proactive and have people and a system set in place so that we are prepared to handle whatever circumstance may arise.  If you are a 'First Responder' (police, security, EMT, doctor, nurse, etc.) and are interested in being a part of this team, please sign up on the sheet in the lobby.  You may also contact Mike Hartwell @ mhredeemed@gmail.com for more information.  Informational meeting coming in September.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEEDS

Our elementary age Sunday School classes are looking for both teachers and helpers to serve. Please contact Matt Russell for more information.

                                             

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS

Nursery 9:00        Sara Cartella, Anki Hill

Nursery 11:00      Mark & Brenda Hallahan

Toddlers 9:00       Kim Haines, Leah Aureli, Katherine DellaRova

Toddlers 11:00     Kirsten Hoy, Kristy Straub, Natalie Mariani
Pre K – K 9:00      Pat & Elisabeth DellaRova, Libby LeBeau

Pre K – K 11:00    Jennifer, Samantha, & Ryan Edwards
1^st & 2^nd – 9:00     Nina Mattera, Michelle Abate

1^st & 2^nd – 11:00   Anne Schweigart, Debbie Davis

3rd - 5^th   9:00      Mary & Scott LeBeau

3^rd – 5^th   11:00     Nance Reeves, Lauren Serebransky

Ushers 9:00          Bob Kerr

Ushers 11:00        Damon Briggs

Wed. Nursery       N/A

Counters              Matt Austen, Bill Berry

Greeters               Pat Keith

                             Sharon Sambucci

                             Katrina Mariani

                             Greg Corrado

                                    

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 Contact Us Form on our website.  http://www.hopechristianfellowship.org/contact/.  If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Bill Berry directly at billandkathyberry@comcast.net.

 

 

Chosen,

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 7/21/16

 

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

There are two words in the English language that can sabotage your peace and joy.  They are very common words, and most of us say (or think) them on a daily basis.  Want to know what they are?  Simple – "What if?"  Nothing can shake the peace and joy out of your soul like uttering those two little words.  You know the deal – once those words take root we begin to conjure up all kinds of disastrous scenarios. Doubt creeps in; joy tiptoes out.  Fear wriggles in; peace slithers out. Those words reveal a lack of trust in our heavenly Father.  When He gives us direction we need to trust Him to show us the way and get us there safely.  When we have worries about relationships, finances, or unpleasant circumstances can we leave them confidently in His hands knowing He is in control?  God knows every single 'what if' there is!  There are no surprises for Him.  He doesn't need us to try and dream up all the possibilities of what might happen; He already knows.  I am the first to admit how difficult it is to stop myself from heading down the path of 'what if' and letting my imagination run wild. But you know what?  God knows how hard it is for His people to stop speculating and so He made sure to give us plenty of promises for peace in Scripture.  If we can't abolish those two words, then we need to at least make sure we remind ourselves of His promises by reading His word. 

 "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." Isaiah 26:3

SUNDAY MORNING MESSAGE

7/24 – The Bride Says "Come" (Revelation 22:12-17)

VBS Kickoff

Wedding invitations are a traditional part of planning any ceremony. The perfect invitation matches the Bride's personality and taste, and of course has all of the correct information listed.  Usually, the goal of sending an invitation is that the person receiving it will come to the wedding and the reception.  As the Bible closes out, we find some final words from Jesus – and they are an invitation to a much bigger event: eternal life and heaven forever.  He talks about how someone accepts this invite, and then He basically commissions us to be the bearers of the invitation for Him.  Are we spending our lives missing out on the greatest cause and privilege of all time?  Will we come to the end of our time on this earth and wish that we had responded or that we had invested more in sharing the invitation?

 

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.

 

PRAYER HUDDLE

8:40 – 8:45 for Both Services

The prayer huddle is open to anyone who would like to come pray - but it is specifically intended for those who are serving on that Sunday.  So if you're scheduled to be in kids' ministry, greeting, in the tech booth, on worship team, or any other ministry role for a given Sunday, join us at 8:40 sharp to pray together for God's power in each of us.  We can do all things through Christ, and nothing of worth without Him, so let's come together each Sunday to ask for God's Spirit to fill us and use us!

 

SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

8:30 in Pastor Mark's Office
Do you have a heart for prayer? Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Questions?  See Bob Baumiester.  "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

 

JULY CHALLENGE VERSE

Colossians 3:1-2

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:00 pm

Join us as we dig into 1Corinthians and gain a deeper understanding of God's Word and its application to our daily lives.  Childcare is available.

Please Note:  We are taking a break from our regular Bible Study during the month of July.

 

YOUNG ADULTS

7:30 in Youth Room

First and Third Monday of every month

Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome.  Contact Dave or Leah Hallahan at dmhallahan5@gmail.com.  Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

MEN'S EVENING SHOOT

Friday, August 5^th

Calling all men!  We're heading out to Quinton Sportsman's Club in Salem County for a manly evening of target shooting.  Cost is $20 for a round of 25 shots and dinner. (Always an option to bring your own shells!)  We are meeting at the church at 6:00pm.  For anyone who prefers to meet us at the club, we plan to arrive at 7:00 pm.   The address is 346 Jericho Road, Salem NJ  08079. We expect to end sometime between 9:00 and 10:00 pm.  Please sign up on the sheet in the lobby so that we can be sure to have enough ammo and shotguns.  See Steve Jones with any questions. 

ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC

Sunday, July 31^st @ 5:00

What better way to spend a summer Sunday than a morning of worship and then an evening of family fun at our church picnic?!  Make sure you come back with the whole family.  We'll have games and inflatables and, of course, lots of food!  We provide the hot dogs and drinks – you can sign up to bring sides and desserts.  Signup sheets are in the lobby.

 

MOVIE NIGHT

Sunday, August 7^th @ 6:00

Bring your family to Hope's FREE Movie Night!  We'll be showing "Do You Believe?"  This film invites Christians to take inventory of whether or not they truly believe and to the LIVE like they believe!  It also reaches out to anyone who is lost or hurting with a message of real hope.  There will be a movie just for our kids as well.  We'll have all kinds of movie candy, popcorn, soda…….oh and a few healthy snacks and bottled water, too.  But hey, this is movie night!!  Indulge and enjoy!

 

HOPE'S SUMMER CAFÉ

Sunday, August 14^th @ 6:00

Everyone looks forward to our café – it's such a fun time to get together and enjoy each other's company……and lots of yummy treats!  Not only that, but we get to see our fellow Hopers display their hidden talents!  Look for a signup sheet coming soon in the lobby.  You can sign up for talent and/or for what snack you will bring.  See Kimmi Biglin with any questions.

 

GOD'S GIRLS WOMEN'S GROUP

Mondays at 7:00

The Bible tells us we are wonderfully made - but why do our emotions seem so complicated? That's what we'll be talking about as we resume meeting this Monday.  We will begin studying Patsy Clairmont's book, "I Second That Emotion." Join us as we learn what makes us tick, and how God would like us to respond to the crazy emotions we all share. Signup sheets are in the lobby, or contact Mary Lebeau (316-6301/marylebeau@verizon.com) for information.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST

Second Saturday of Every Month

8:00 – 9:30am

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. See Steve Jones with any questions.

 

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP

Our middle school and high school groups meet at the church on Sundays from 6:30-8:30 all year long! Come out for another amazing year as we grow closer together and closer to God!

 

ROOTED

We are taking a break over the summer but will resume again in September.  See you then!

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEWS

 

GO ZONE

Go Zone is our Sunday Morning kid's service, planned especially for 1^st - 5^th graders.  Our goal is to encourage the kids to live with their focus on "GOing for GOD, GOing for GROWTH, and GOing FOREVER!" This service includes worship, games, and exploring important biblical truths in fun and creative ways before heading off to Sunday school.

Follow HopeKids! Ministries on Facebook at:  facebook.com/HCFHopeKids

 

CAVE QUEST VBS – THIS WEEK!

July 25^th – 29^th

We are so excited for VBS!  Get ready for an over-the-top underground adventure with CAVE QUEST VBS!  Your children will come away grounded in the rock solid foundation of God's love.  This year, we are having two sessions – our 3-5 year olds will meet from 9:30 – 12:00, and our elementary kids will meet from 6:00 – 8:30pm. 

 

URGENT CAVE QUEST VBS NEED

We are in need of some nursery help to hang out with the Cave Quest VBS volunteer's kids (Babies thru 5 year olds) during the evenings of July 25-29th from 5:30-8:30.  If you'd be interested in serving our volunteers in this way please let Matt Russell know which night you can help!  

Matt's cell - 609-417-1111  

 

                                                                         ANNOUNCEMENTS 

 

UGANDA UPDATE

Patty, Jess and Dave have been having a wonderful time serving alongside Josh and Kelly Hallahan in Kampala, Uganda. Most of their time thus far has been spent with the United Faith Chapel (UFC) and the University Discipleship Movement (UDM). Both organizations are largely run by university students as well as some paid staff. They seek to see university students transformed by God and equipped to bring the whole gospel to the whole world. 

 

Their days have been spent doing campus outreach, which basically amounts to street evangelism on college campuses, leading Bible studies for university students and visiting local high schools to share the love of Christ with them. 

 

God has been working in and through all three of the members of the Hope team. They appreciate your prayers thus far and covet them continually as they serve alongside local students. 

 

PRISON MINISTRY SUPPORT

Once again, we have two of our very own (Jim Jefferson & Bill McGinness) participating in this unique prison ministry that reaches inmates with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through athletics. Statistics show that the vast majority of prisoners will not attend a traditional religious program such as a chapel service or Bible study. However, inmates will gladly attend sporting events at which a gospel message is shared.

The commitment to serve in this ministry requires many sacrifices on their part, not just the personal time spent away from their families, but a financial sacrifice as well.  We can help them through prayer and through giving donations as we feel the Lord's leading.  If you would like to contribute, please see Bill or Jim and they will give you the details on how best to give.

 

ENVELOPES FOR DESIGNATED GIVING

If God has laid it on your heart to give a little something extra for His kingdom, we have provided envelopes for you to do so!  These are not for your usual Sunday offering; they are for you to use if you'd like to give to a special project or ministry.  The envelopes are in a wall mounted bin next to our regular offering slot.

 

ONLINE GIVING TO SUPPORT HOPE

It's easy and convenient!  Simply go to our website at www.hopechristianfellowship.org  and click Online Giving.  Text to Give is coming soon!  More information will follow.  Contact Damon (damon.briggs@mitchellandness.com) or LaTosha (usafinancial2000@hotmail.com) Briggs with questions.

 

HAVE OUR ELDERS PRAY WITH YOU

The New Testament has this wonderful ministry for the elders of a church - PRAYER.  And we'd like to offer it to anyone who is in need of healing (physical or otherwise) or who needs the power of God to be at work in their lives in a special way.  If you or anyone you know would like to take advantage of this ministry, contact Pastor Mark to set up a time after one of our Sunday services for the elders to pray over you.

                                                                         OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE

 

CONNECTING AND SERVING AT HOPE

There are so many places to connect and serve here at Hope.  Keep your eyes on this section to be aware of all the different opportunities for you to effectively serve at Hope. There truly IS 'something for everyone' and we want to make it easy for you to know all the different options!

 

FIRST RESPONDERS SECURITY TEAM

We are in the beginning stages of establishing a Security Team here at Hope in the (unlikely) event of an emergency situation taking place during the service.  We want to be proactive and have people and a system set in place so that we are prepared to handle whatever circumstance may arise.  If you are a 'First Responder' (police, security, EMT, doctor, nurse, etc.) and are interested in being a part of this team, please sign up on the sheet in the lobby.  You may also contact Mike Hartwell @ mhredeemed@gmail.com for more information.

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEEDS

Our elementary age Sunday School classes are looking for both teachers and helpers to serve. Please contact Matt Russell for more information.

                                             

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS

Nursery 9:00        Amy Fleck, Gail Birney, Ryan Winstel

Nursery 11:00      Leah Hallahan, Lauren Czyzewski

Toddlers 9:00       Kim Haines, Leah Aureli, Katherine DellaRova

Toddlers 11:00     Kirsten Hoy, Natalie Mariani
Pre K – K 9:00      Bill & Griffin McGinness

Pre K – K 11:00    Jennifer, Samantha, & Ryan Edwards
1^st & 2^nd – 9:00     Nina Mattera, Michelle Abate

1^st & 2^nd – 11:00   Anne Schweigart, Debbie Davis

3rd - 5^th   9:00      VBS KICKOFF

3^rd – 5^th   11:00     VBS KICKOFF

Ushers 9:00          Mike Hartwell

Ushers 11:00        Dan Rozinski

Wed. Nursery       N/A

Counters              Matt Austen, Bill Berry

Greeters               Pat Keith

                             Sharon Sambucci

                             Katrina Mariani

                             Greg Corrado

                                    

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 Contact Us Form on our website.  http://www.hopechristianfellowship.org/contact/.  If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Bill Berry directly at billandkathyberry@comcast.net.

 

 

Kept in Perfect Peace,

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 7/14/16

 

 

Dear Friends of Hope ~

I'm going to tell you a funny story.  When I was little, I was afraid of the wallpaper that adorned our stairway.  It was a bucolic pattern of sheep and their shepherd, some little trees and a stream.  (Don't ask me WHY my mom had this wallpaper!! Maybe it was popular back in the 40's when they bought the house!) Anyway, more specifically, I was afraid of this one particular sheep.  Right where his mouth would be was what looked to me to be a gaping hole – just ready to eat me up!  In reality, it was simply a hole left from when my dad moved the banister up a notch.  But to my four year old eyes it looked enormous!  Now mind you, I had to pass that monstrous sheep every night on my way to bed.  When I got to the part of the stairs where he loomed waiting for me, I would cross to the other side.  My mom always yelled at me to 'hold the railing!'  No way was I going to allow that sheep easy access to my tender fingers!  I never did tell her what I was so afraid of. I'm sure she would have had a good laugh, and then found a way to reassure me.  This all came to mind just recently when I somehow made the connection between those sheep, that shepherd, and my relationship with Jesus.  How ironic that, as a child, I was so terrified of that scene and that, as an adult, that scene perfectly represents believer's relationship with Jesus, our Good Shepherd.  He stands guard over us.  Protects us.  Leads us to still waters.  Gives rest to our souls.  Comforts us.  Takes us down the right paths. (From Psalm 23)  All these things were what my little soul needed as a child.  That wallpaper should have been a reminder of who Jesus is. Instead, it instilled great fear! It makes me sad that that little girl did not know Jesus. But it makes me SO happy that I have a church determined to make sure every single child knows about Jesus and His love.  We at Hope believe nothing is more important than reaching our little ones for Christ.  I am so thankful for this and am certain that if one of our little Hope Kids saw that scene, they would certainly know what it meant!

 

SUNDAY MORNING MESSAGE

 

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.

 

PRAYER HUDDLE

8:40 – 8:45 for Both Services

The prayer huddle is open to anyone who would like to come pray - but it is specifically intended for those who are serving on that Sunday.  So if you're scheduled to be in kids' ministry, greeting, in the tech booth, on worship team, or any other ministry role for a given Sunday, join us at 8:40 sharp to pray together for God's power in each of us.  We can do all things through Christ, and nothing of worth without Him, so let's come together each Sunday to ask for God's Spirit to fill us and use us!

 

SUNDAY MORNING PRAYER TIME

8:30 in Pastor Mark's Office
Do you have a heart for prayer? Our Sunday morning prayer time is open to everyone. We pray for the services that morning and for the needs in the church. If you would like to participate, just show up!  Questions?  See Bob Baumiester.  "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH

 

JULY CHALLENGE VERSE

Colossians 3:1-2

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY

7:00 pm

Join us as we dig into 1Corinthians and gain a deeper understanding of God's Word and its application to our daily lives.  Childcare is available.

Please Note:  We are taking a break from our regular Bible Study during the month of July.  You are welcome to come out and help decorate for VBS instead!  See Matt Russell for further information.

 

YOUNG ADULTS

7:30 in Youth Room

First and Third Monday of every month

Anyone who has graduated high school up to their early thirties is welcome.  Contact Dave or Leah Hallahan at dmhallahan5@gmail.com.  Childcare is provided.

 

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FELLOWSHIP

 

ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC

Sunday, July 31^st @ 5:00

 

What better way to spend a summer Sunday than a morning of worship and then an evening of family fun at our church picnic?!  Make sure you come back with the whole family.  We'll have games and inflatables and, of course, lots of food!  We provide the hot dogs and drinks – you can sign up to bring sides and desserts.  Signup sheets are in the lobby.

 

MOVIE NIGHT

Sunday, August 7^th @ 6:00

Bring your family to Hope's FREE Movie Night!  We'll be showing "Do You Believe?"  This film invites Christians to take inventory of whether or not they truly believe and to the LIVE like they believe!  It also reaches out to anyone who is lost or hurting with a message of real hope.  There will be a movie just for our kids as well.  We'll have all kinds of movie candy, popcorn, soda…….oh and a few healthy snacks and bottled water, too.  But hey, this is movie night!!  Indulge and enjoy!

 

HOPE'S SUMMER CAFÉ

Sunday, August 14^th @ 6:00

Everyone looks forward to our café – it's such a fun time to get together and enjoy each other's company……and lots of yummy treats!  Not only that, but we get to see our fellow Hopers display their hidden talents!  Look for a signup sheet coming soon in the lobby.  You can sign up for talent and/or for what snack you will bring.  See Kimmi Biglin with any questions.

 

GOD'S GIRLS WOMEN'S GROUP

Mondays at 7:00

The Bible tells us we are wonderfully made - but why do our emotions seem so complicated? That's what we'll be talking about as we resume meeting this Monday.  We will begin studying Patsy Clairmont's book, "I Second That Emotion." Join us as we learn what makes us tick, and how God would like us to respond to the crazy emotions we all share. Signup sheets are in the lobby, or contact Mary Lebeau (316-6301/marylebeau@verizon.com) for information.

 

MEN'S BREAKFAST – THIS SATURDAY

Second Saturday of Every Month*

8:00 – 9:30am

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. See Steve Jones with any questions.

*Please Note:  For the month of July, we are pushing the breakfast back to July 16^th.

 

YOUTH NEWS

YOUTH GROUP

Our middle school and high school groups meet at the church on Sundays from 6:30-8:30 all year long! Come out for another amazing year as we grow closer together and closer to God!

 

ROOTED

We are taking a break over the summer but will resume again in September.  See you then!

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEWS

 

GO ZONE

Go Zone is our Sunday Morning kid's service, planned especially for 1^st - 5^th graders.  Our goal is to encourage the kids to live with their focus on "GOing for GOD, GOing for GROWTH, and GOing FOREVER!" This service includes worship, games, and exploring important biblical truths in fun and creative ways before heading off to Sunday school.

Follow HopeKids! Ministries on Facebook at:  facebook.com/HCFHopeKids

 

CAVE QUEST VBS

July 25^th – 29^th

We are so excited for VBS!  Get ready for an over-the-top underground adventure with CAVE QUEST VBS!  Your children will come away grounded in the rock solid foundation of God's love.  This year, we are having two sessions – our 3-5 year olds will meet from 9:30 – 12:00, and our elementary kids will meet from 6:00 – 8:30pm. 

HELP NEEDED: We will be setting up two large and two smaller tents after the 2^nd service on July 17th. Hoping for 10 to 12 men or woman to assist. Estimating start time at 12:15.  Completion on or about 2:30.

 

                                                                    ANNOUNCEMENTS 

 

UGANDA UPDATE

Patty, Jess and Dave have been having a wonderful time serving alongside Josh and Kelly Hallahan in Kampala, Uganda. Most of their time thus far has been spent with the United Faith Chapel (UFC) and the University Discipleship Movement (UDM). Both organizations are largely run by university students as well as some paid staff. They seek to see university students transformed by God and equipped to bring the whole gospel to the whole world. 

 

Their days have been spent doing campus outreach, which basically amounts to street evangelism on college campuses, leading Bible studies for university students and visiting local high schools to share the love of Christ with them. 

 

God has been working in and through all three of the members of the Hope team. They appreciate your prayers thus far and covet them continually as they serve alongside local students. 

 

PRISON MINISTRY SUPPORT

Once again, we have two of our very own (Jim Jefferson & Bill McGinness) participating in this unique prison ministry that reaches inmates with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through athletics. Statistics show that the vast majority of prisoners will not attend a traditional religious program such as a chapel service or Bible study. However, inmates will gladly attend sporting events at which a gospel message is shared.

The commitment to serve in this ministry requires many sacrifices on their part, not just the personal time spent away from their families, but a financial sacrifice as well.  We can help them through prayer and through giving donations as we feel the Lord's leading.  If you would like to contribute, please see Bill or Jim and they will give you the details on how best to give.

 

ENVELOPES FOR DESIGNATED GIVING

If God has laid it on your heart to give a little something extra for His kingdom, we have provided envelopes for you to do so!  These are not for your usual Sunday offering; they are for you to use if you'd like to give to a special project or ministry.  The envelopes are in a wall mounted bin next to our regular offering slot.

 

ONLINE GIVING TO SUPPORT HOPE

It's easy and convenient!  Simply go to our website at www.hopechristianfellowship.org  and click Online Giving.  Text to Give is coming soon!  More information will follow.  Contact Damon (damon.briggs@mitchellandness.com) or LaTosha (usafinancial2000@hotmail.com) Briggs with questions.

 

HAVE OUR ELDERS PRAY WITH YOU

The New Testament has this wonderful ministry for the elders of a church - PRAYER.  And we'd like to offer it to anyone who is in need of healing (physical or otherwise) or who needs the power of God to be at work in their lives in a special way.  If you or anyone you know would like to take advantage of this ministry, contact Pastor Mark to set up a time after one of our Sunday services for the elders to pray over you.

OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE

 

CONNECTING AND SERVING AT HOPE

There are so many places to connect and serve here at Hope.  Keep your eyes on this section to be aware of all the different opportunities for you to effectively serve at Hope. There truly IS 'something for everyone' and we want to make it easy for you to know all the different options!

 

FIRST RESPONDERS SECURITY TEAM

We are in the beginning stages of establishing a Security Team here at Hope in the (unlikely) event of an emergency situation taking place during the service.  We want to be proactive and have people and a system set in place so that we are prepared to handle whatever circumstance may arise.  If you are a 'First Responder' (police, security, EMT, doctor, nurse, etc.) and are interested in being a part of this team, please sign up on the sheet in the lobby.  You may also contact Mike Hartwell @ mhredeemed@gmail.com for more information.

 

MISSIONARY COMMUNICATION TEAM

Do you have a heart for missions but don't want to travel the globe?  Or maybe you're good on social media, or have a knack for writing.  We could really use someone like YOU!  We are trying to establish regular communication with each of our missionaries.  Ideally, we'd like for each one to have an assigned person who would be their liaison.  We'd also like to put out a quarterly newsletter with current updates on our missionaries.  This is one of those projects where not much effort on your part yields big results!  Contact Barb Frazeur for more information at dwfrazfam@verizon.net or 609-970-8314.

 

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY NEEDS

Our elementary age Sunday School classes are looking for both teachers and helpers to serve. Please contact Matt Russell for more information.

                                             

THIS WEEK'S WORKERS

Nursery 9:00        Amy Fleck, Gail Birney, Ryan Winstel

Nursery 11:00      Leah Hallahan, Lauren Czyzewski

Toddlers 9:00       Kim Haines, Leah Aureli, Katherine DellaRova

Toddlers 11:00     Kirsten Hoy, Natalie Mariani
Pre K – K 9:00      Bill & Griffin McGinness

Pre K – K 11:00    Kim Lawlor, Prisca Ogunkanmi
1^st & 2^nd – 9:00     Nina Mattera, Michelle Abate

1^st & 2^nd – 11:00   Anne Schweigart, Debbie Davis

3rd - 5^th   9:00      Mary LeBeau

3^rd – 5^th   11:00     Nance Reeves, Lauren Serebransky

Ushers 9:00          Bruce Clark

Ushers 11:00        Tom Albright

Wed. Nursery       N/A

Counters              Kathy Berry, Wendy Devereaux

Greeters               Pat Keith

                             Sharon Sambucci

                             Katrina Mariani

                             Greg Corrado

                                    

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 Contact Us Form on our website.  http://www.hopechristianfellowship.org/contact/.  If you have any questions or would like to join the Prayer Team, please contact Bill Berry directly at billandkathyberry@comcast.net.

 

 

He is Our Sheperd,

Lois

 

 

 

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