I cannot tell you how many people this week have told me that they were just going about their normal dally routine when all of a sudden, seemingly out of nowhere, something happened… something out of the ordinary.

Pardon The Interruption

In a moment, their calendar, their plans, their day became much more complicated.  Someone had an issue to deal with, a problem to solve, a quandary to address.  And many of our good ole GBC people who had prayed “God interrupt me, I am available”, were thinking the same thing.  ”Why did I pray that?”  Now I have this person, this problem to deal with and my day is shot.

Pardon The Interruption

While we all love order and predictability and agendas, the truth is- relationships don’t necessarily work on formulas.  Relationships are fluid and emotional and time consuming and… beautiful.  Anyone with a friend or a spouse or a child knows that relationships take work and time and can regularly interrupt other things we were planning on doing.  And, this reality doesn’t surprise us when it happens in a relationship with another human.  The Bible says God has feelings.  The Bible says God spoke.  The Bible shows many interruptions of God in human history.  Why wouldn’t the Holy Spirit interrupt us?

Pardon the Interruption

5/15/2012

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

 Middle School Summer Kick-Off Day

(incoming 6^th graders thru outgoing 8^th graders)

Sunday, June 3

Morning

6^th Grade Orientation/Welcome Lunch (We will meet in the Box at 10:30 and will finish at Noon)

Evening

Middle School Summer Kick-off Picnic in the Park

Mill Pond Park in Saline

5PM-7PM

Please sign up on the GBC website under Event Registration so we have a count for food.

—————————————————————————————————

 GBC Independent Film Festival (A red carpet premier event)

Oscar Night is dead…but the advent of the GBC Independent Film Festival is upon us.  This is still a formal event (sorry guys) attended by the who’s who of the GBC high school youth group.  Your event will be hosted by such celebrities as Marcus Coldplay Crosby and Professional Athlete Austin Engle.  This evening will focus on the release and world premiers of multiple independent films produced by local artists including the likes of Luke Hayter, Carter Hayes, and Schickling Productions.  We will also have the opportunity to see rare films recovered from the 2011 film archives.  Don’t miss this elegant evening of film and fine dining.

Where:  The Box

When: May 20 from 6PM-8PM

Cost:  FREE

Sign-up: On Facebook event link or by e-mailing Adam (we need to know how much food to make)

____________________________________________________

 PERMISSION SLIPS ARE DUE IN 16 DAYS!!!

Today is May 15 and 2012-13 GBC Youth Permission Slips are due on Wednesday, May 30th!   Again this year there will be prizes for everyone that turns their permission slip in by the deadline!

Please place completed permission slips in one of the black mailboxes at GBC or they may be scanned and emailed to Carol Burgener at cburgener@gracea2.org.

————————————————————————————————–

Middle School Boys Lock-in @ the Box.

This activity includes New 6th grade boys AND this year’s 8th graders!!

WHEN? Friday, June 8.

COST: $3.

WHAT? Pizza, pop, games, and goofyness.

DON’T MISS IT!!

Begins at Box on Friday at 8PM and ends at Box Saturday morning at 8AM.  To sign up, please e-mail Pastor Adamjavascript:DeCryptX('bnpstfAhsbdfb3/psh')  or Carol Burgener cburgener@gracea2.org

YOU MUST SIGN-UP ASAP!!!  Payment can be brought with you on June 8.

——————————————————————————

Cedar Point Trip

Who: All incoming 6^th graders thru graduating seniors

When: Tuesday, June 26 (the week following soccer camp) from 7AM-11PM

Cost: $38 (includes ticket and transportation…money for food would be extra)

PLEASE SIGN UP ONLINE OR DROP PAYMENT IN BOX OUTSIDE OF PA’s OFFICE BY JUNE 17!

Note: Transportation is limited…you must sign up by the deadline in order to be guaranteed a spot.

—————————————————————————–

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 5/20

Middle School in Rooms 23-26

High School @ The Box

this Sunday at 9:30 am.

—————————————————————————————–

Attention All 6-8th graders!!

Register now to attend

GBC’s ON GOAL Soccer Camp

June 19-23 at The GBC Soccer Fields

Registration forms available at The Welcome Center

—————————————————-
Let’s clarify the information for

NEW 6TH GRADERS!!

#1 On Sunday, June 3- Current 5th graders (new 6th graders) will have their normal 9:30 am class with Mrs. Ammann.

#2 On Sunday, June 3- at 10:30 am new 6th  graders will join other MS students in THE BOX for a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th grade students to GBC Youth Ministry.

#3 NEW– See announcement about Sunday Evening June 3rd’s activities.

#4 IMPORTANT– On Sunday June 10, 17 and 24 New 6th graders will continue with their current Sunday morning schedule both hours.

#5 ALL other special activities that the MS group has outside of Sunday morning will include New 6th Grade Students!! (including the MS boys sleepover on June

#6 During the worship hour in July and August– New 6th graders may choose to go to worship or to participate in Children’s Ministry programming (led by GBC teens).

#7 On Sunday September 9th you will come to the 9:30 am MS class and be fully a part of ALL GBC Middle School meetings and activities.

#8 If you have questions about these few changes in schedule please contact Pastor Adam amorse@gracea2.org or 734-663-0589.

______________________________________________________________

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Mrs. Burgener will soon arrange and publish the TIM schedule for July – September. Please let her know if there are dates you know you will not be available. Also let her know if there are classes you prefer to work in, or prefer NOT to work in.

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.

TIM Schedule May 2012-June 2012

5/20       Amara Ikeji, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Andrew Ardle, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                ________________________________________________________________

What is going on in May??

May is a busy time for all of us.  Again this year GBC Youth Ministry will scale back our ministry schedule in May to allow students to concentrate on the many end of school year activities. Sunday morning classes will continue and there will be some occasional “special events.”  Please continue to read the Enews weekly for updates so you don’t miss anything.

—————————————————————————–

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip (2012-13)

Instructions for on-line registration

Student Life @ the Beach Waiver & Release form and Medical Waiver form

MS Mission Trip Permission and Release form

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

5/8/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

 Middle School Summer Kick-Off Day

(incoming 6^th graders thru outgoing 8^th graders)

Sunday, June 3

Morning

6^th Grade Orientation/Welcome Lunch (We will meet in the Box at 10:30 and will finish at 12)

Evening

Middle School Summer Kick-off Picnic in the Park

Mill Pond Park in Saline

5PM-7PM

—————————————————————————————————

 PERMISSION SLIPS ARE DUE IN 23 DAYS!!!

Today is May 1 and 2012-13 GBC Youth Permission Slips are due on Wednesday, May 30th!   Again this year there will be prizes for everyone that turns their permission slip in by the deadline!

Please place completed permission slips in one of the black mailboxes at GBC or they may be scanned and emailed to Carol Burgener at cburgener@gracea2.org.

————————————————————————————————-

Let’s clarify the information for

NEW 6TH GRADERS!!

 #1 On Sunday, June 3- Current 5th graders (new 6th graders) will have their normal 9:30 am class with Mrs. Ammann.

#2 On Sunday, June 3- at 10:30 am new 6th  graders will join other MS students in rooms 23-26 for a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th grade students to GBC Youth Ministry.

#3 NEW– See announcement about Sunday Evening June 3rd’s activities.

#4 IMPORTANT– On Sunday June 10, 17 and 24 New 6th graders will continue with their current Sunday morning schedule both hours.

#5 ALL other special activities that the MS group has outside of Sunday morning will include New 6th Grade Students!! (including the MS boys sleepover on June

#6 During the worship hour in July and August– New 6th graders may choose to go to worship or to participate in Children’s Ministry programming (led by GBC teens).

#7 On Sunday September 9th you will come to the 9:30 am MS class and be fully a part of ALL GBC Middle School meetings and activities.

#8 If you have questions about these few changes in schedule please contact Pastor Adam amorse@gracea2.org or 734-663-0589.

______________________________________________________________

Middle School Boys Lock-in @ the Box.

This activity includes New 6th grade boys AND this year’s 8th graders!!

WHEN?Friday, June 8.

COST: $3.

WHAT?Pizza, pop, games, and goofyness.

DON’T MISS IT!!

Begins at Box on Friday at 8PM and ends at Box Saturday morning at 8AM.  To sign up, please e-mail Pastor Adam amorse@gracea2.org  or Carol Burgener cburgener@gracea2.org

YOU MUST SIGN-UP ASAP!!!  Payment can be brought with you on June 8.

——————————————————————————

Cedar Point Trip

Who: All incoming 6^th graders thru graduating seniors

When: Tuesday, June 26 (the week following soccer camp) from 7AM-11PM

Cost: $38 (includes ticket and transportation…money for food would be extra)

PLEASE SIGN UP ONLINE OR DROP PAYMENT IN BOX OUTSIDE OF PA’s OFFICE BY JUNE 17!

Note: Transportation is limited…you must sign up by the deadline in order to be guaranteed a spot.

—————————————————————————–

What is going on in May??

May is a busy time for all of us.  Again this year GBC Youth Ministry will scale back our ministry schedule in May to allow students to concentrate on the many end of school year activities. Sunday morning classes will continue and there will be some occasional “special events.”  Please continue to read the Enews weekly for updates so you don’t miss anything.

—————————————————————————–

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 5/13

Middle School in Rooms 23-26

High School @ The Box

this Sunday at 9:30 am.

—————————————————————————————–

Oscar Night– Red Carpet Night

When? Sunday May 20-Note the change of date!!!

Who? All GBC High School Students

Where? The BOX

Please note this is a “Red Carpet Attire event”

Deadline for videos is Sunday, May 6. See Pastor A for details

——————————————————————————

Attention All 6-8th graders!!

Register now to attend

GBC’s ON GOAL Soccer Camp

June 19-23 at The GBC Soccer Fields

Registration forms available at The Welcome Center

—————————————————-
Middle School Students–

Sunday June 3 we will have a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th graders.  Don’t miss it!!

————————————————————————————————–

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

TIM Schedule May 2012-June 2012

 5/13        Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker
5/20       Amara Ikeji, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Andrew Ardle, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                         ________________________________________________________________
EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

5-1-12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

PERMISSION SLIPS ARE DUE IN 30 DAYS!!!

Today is May 1 and 2012-13 GBC Youth Permission Slips are due on Wednesday, May 30th!   Again this year there will be prizes for everyone that turns their permission slip in by the deadline!

Please place completed permission slips in one of the black mailboxes at GBC or they may be scanned and emailed to Carol Burgener at cburgener@gracea2.org.

————————————————————————————————–

Let’s clarify the information for

NEW 6TH GRADERS!!

#1 On Sunday, June 3- Current 5th graders (new 6th graders) will have their normal 9:30 am class with Mrs. Ammann.

#2 On Sunday, June 3- at 10:30 am new 6th  graders will join other MS students in rooms 23-26 for a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th grade students to GBC Youth Ministry.

#3 IMPORTANT– On Sunday June 10, 17 and 24 New 6th graders will continue with their current Sunday morning schedule both hours.

#4 ALL other special activities that the MS group has outside of Sunday morning will include New 6th Grade Students!! (including the MS boys sleepover on June

#5 During the worship hour in July and August– New 6th graders may choose to go to worship or to participate in Children’s Ministry programming (led by GBC teens).

#6 On Sunday September 9th you will come to the 9:30 am MS class and be fully a part of ALL GBC Middle School meetings and activities.

#7 If you have questions about these few changes in schedule please contact Pastor Adam amorse@gracea2.org or 734-663-0589.

______________________________________________________________

Middle School Boys Lock-in @ the Box.

This activity includes New 6th grade boys AND this year’s 8th graders!!

WHEN? Friday, June 8.

COST: $3.

WHAT? Pizza, pop, games, and goofyness.

DON’T MISS IT!!

Begins at Box on Friday at 8PM and ends at Box Saturday morning at 8AM.  To sign up, please e-mail Pastor Adam amorse@gracea2.org  or Carol Burgener cburgener@gracea2.org

Payment can be brought with you on June 8.

——————————————————————————

What is going on in May??

May is a busy time for all of us.  Again this year GBC Youth Ministry will scale back our ministry schedule in May to allow students to concentrate on the many end of school year activities. Sunday morning classes will continue and there will be some occasional “special events.”  Please continue to read the Enews weekly for updates so you don’t miss anything.

—————————————————————————–

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 5/6

Middle School in Rooms 23-26

High School @ The Box

this Sunday at 9:30 am.

—————————————————————————————–

Oscar Night– Red Carpet Night

 When? Sunday May 20-Note the change of date!!!

 Who? All GBC High School Students

Where? The BOX

Please note this is a “Red Carpet Attire event”

 Deadline for videos is Sunday, May 6. See Pastor A for details

——————————————————————————

 Attention All 6-8th graders!!

Register now to attend

GBC’s ON GOAL Soccer Camp

June 19-23 at The GBC Soccer Fields

Registration forms available at The Welcome Center

—————————————————-
Middle School Students–

Sunday June 3 we will have a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th graders.  Don’t miss it!!

————————————————————————————————-

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

TIM Schedule May 2012-June 2012

 5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji
5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker
5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                  _______________________________________________________________
EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

4/24/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

High School Girls– Please check FB for more information on The Tea with Tarah and Amanda this Friday night!

———————————————————————————————-

MIDDLE SCHOOL END OF THE YEAR PARTY!!

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25^th, 6:30-8:15pm

WHERE: AT THE BOX

WHAT: END OF THE YEAR TRIVIA, 8^TH GRADE FAREWELL GIFTS, END OF THE YEAR MOVIE, AND LOTS OF FOOD!

***Note to parents: We will start the movie at approximately 7:30 p.m  Please come join us if you’d like!
————————————————————————————————

High School Students Go to the Silverdome!

 This Sunday 4/29 at 2:30pm GBC High School Teens will climb in the van and head to the Silverdome.

Why?? To see our very own Youth Intern- Austin Engel play for the Detroit Mechanix. Austin is a professional Ultimate Frisbee player in the newly formed Profession Ultimate Frisbee League. Very impressive.

Cost?? $10 for the ticket and extra money for dinner on the way home.

The game begins at 4 pm and we plan to return to GBC by 8:30pm

PLEASE RSVP on Facebook if you plan to go.

This will be our final Sunday evening meeting until Oscar Night!!

—————————————————————————————————-

Oscar Night– Red Carpet Night

When? Sunday May 20-Note the change of date!!!

Who? All GBC High School Students

Where? The BOX

Please note this is a “Red Carpet Attire event”

Deadline for videos is Sunday, May 6. See Pastor A for details

—————————————————————————————————

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 4/29 at 9:30 am

 Middle School in Rooms 23-26

High School @ The Box

—————————————————————————————————-

Attention All 6-8th graders!!

Register now to attend

GBC’s ON GOAL Soccer Camp

June 19-23 at The GBC Soccer Fields

Registration forms available at The Welcome Center

——————————————————–

Middle School Students–

Sunday June 3 we will have a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the new 6th graders.  Don’t miss it!!

—————————————————————————————————

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

TIM Schedule April 2012-June 2012

4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann
5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji
5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker
5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
________________________________________________________________
EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Due to this culture shift (and for many other very legitimate reasons) many churches like ours in recent years have chosen to go with a 1 hour format, and I can certainly understand this for the sake of the volunteers etc.

Here at GBC, however, we still offer 2 hours on most Sunday mornings (excluding Holidays and the mid-summer months).  We have chosen to do this very purposefully, and the people who have participated in both hours have seen the benefits.  Still, others, who may have been part of GBC for a while, may not have tried both hours, choosing to attend just the church service instead.  So, as a public service announcement for all GBC folks, here are 10 reasons why you should consider making 2 hours (instead of 1) part of your Sunday routine.

1.  New classes start May 6 during the 9:30 am hour, so you can start fresh with a whole new group.

2.  There is safe, creative, God honoring, free childcare from 9:30-12:00.

3.  If you attended every sermon this year, you would have a mere 30.3 hours of teaching, and I simply can’t say everything in 30.3 hours although sometimes I try.

4.  There are some brilliant teachers at GBC who have much to say about what it means to be a Jesus follower.

5.  If it seems that it may be somewhat difficult to wrangle your entire family to GBC by 9:30, I would guess that it is probably sometimes difficult to wrangle an entire family here by 10:30.  (Fortunately in my case, my wife is the wrangler, and she runs a tight ship).  Think about this: if you aimed for the first hour (9:30) you would definitely make it to GBC and probably even avoid altogether that frazzled, mad rush to make it to service by 10:30.

6.  Being in a smaller group of people, whether it is a volunteer team or a class, gives you the chance to really get to know some people that you would not have otherwise met.

7.  All of us feel the need to really understand our Bibles more than we do.  We want to read it for all it is worth; still, we struggle to understand how to do that.  Starting May 6, you will have a chance to be instructed on that very thing.  I had to pay to take this kind of class in seminary!

8.  2 hours at church, means 2 different opportunities to serve. WOOHOO!

9.  Have you ever wondered what the band is like when they practice?

10.  Did I mention the childcare?

Well, if that doesn’t convince you to consider 2 hours with us on a Sunday morning, I don’t know what will.  Seriously consider joining us for our Spring Seminar on “How to Read the Bible for All its Worth” or perhaps join us for the 3 week “Getting Acquainted With Grace” class where you can learn about our church history, doctrine and membership process.  Both of these new classes will start on May 6th at 9:30, along with (hopefully) your new two hour routine .

Sunday Morning Elective Classes 102- 302 will conclude on April 29.

Listen to MP3

______

Here is CS Lewis’ answer to that question (Mere Christianity, ch. 24 The Three Personal God)

You may ask, ‘if we cannot imagine a three-personal Being, what is the good of talking about Him?’ Well, there isn’t any good talking about Him. The thing that matters is being actually drawn into that three-personal life, and that may begin any time – to-night, if you like.

What I mean is this. An ordinary simple Christian kneels down to say his prayers. He is trying to get into touch with God. But if he is a Christian he knows that what is prompting him to pray is also God: God, so to speak, inside him. But he also knows that all his real knowledge of God comes through Christ, the Man who was God – that Christ is standing beside him, helping him to pray, praying for him. You see what is happening. God is the thing to which he is praying the goal he is trying to reach. God is also the thing inside him which is pushing him on – the motive power. God is also the road or bridge along which he is being pushed to that goal. So that the whole threefold life of the three-personal Being is actually going on in that ordinary little bedroom where an ordinary man is saying his prayers. The man is being caught up into the higher kinds of life – what I called Zoe or spiritual life: he is being pulled into God, by God, while still remaining himself.

______

Brilliant… simply brilliant.

4/17/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Please note:  The Middle School Mission Trip is now CLOSED. If you have questions regarding the MS Mission trip– please contact Pastor Adam.

________________________________________________________________________________

High School Students–

THIS Sunday Evening– April 22 @ The Ammanns.

7221 Ridge Line Circle

Dexter, MI 48130

734-424-0608

Meet at the GBC at 6 pm for transportation or meet at The Ammanns home at 6:30pm.  We will return to GBC by 8:30 pm or your parents may pick up there at 8pm.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 4/22

Middle School in Rooms 23-26

High School @ The Box

this Sunday at 9:30 am.

—————————————————————————————————-

MIDDLE SCHOOL END OF THE YEAR PARTY!!

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25^th, 6:30-8:15pm

WHERE: AT THE BOX

WHAT: END OF THE YEAR TRIVIA, 8^TH GRADE FAREWELL GIFTS, END OF THE YEAR MOVIE, AND LOTS OF FOOD!

***Note to parents: We will start the movie at approximately 7:30 p.m  Please come join us if you’d like!
———————————————————————————————–

Oscar Night– Red Carpet Night

 When? Sunday May 6

Who? All GBC High School Students

Where? The BOX

Please note this is a “Red Carpet Attire event”

Deadline for videos is April 29. See Pastor A for details

—————————————————————————————————-

Attention All 6-8th graders!!

Register now to attend

GBC’s ON GOAL Soccer Camp

June 19-23 at The GBC Soccer Fields

Registration forms available at The Welcome Center

——————————————————–

Middle School Students–

Sunday June 3 we will have a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the news 6th graders.  Don’t miss it!!

—————————————————————————————————

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

TIM Schedule April 2012-June 2012

4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker
4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann
5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji
5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker
5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann

 ________________________________________________________________
EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com.
—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

4-12-12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Dare to Share Conference participants– PLEASE SEE THE FACEBOOK LINK FOR A LIST OF “WHAT TO BRING.”  WE WILL LEAVE PROMPTLY AT 1PM FROM GBC!!

____________________________________________________________________________________

Sunday Morning Classes this Sunday 4/15

 All Teens will meet in rooms 23-26

this Sunday at 9:30 am.

 —————————————————————————————————-

There will be NO Sunday Evening HS meeting this Sunday 4/15.

————————————————————

 MIDDLE SCHOOL END OF THE YEAR PARTY!!

WHEN: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25^th,6:30-8:15pm

WHERE: AT THE BOX

WHAT: END OF THE YEAR TRIVIA, 8^TH GRADE FAREWELL GIFTS, END OF THE YEAR MOVIE, AND LOTS OF FOOD!

***Note to parents: We will start the movie at approximately 7:30 p.m.  Please come join us if you’d like!

—————————————————————————————————

Oscar Night– Red Carpet Night

When? Sunday May 6

Who? All GBC High School Students

Where? The BOX

Please note this is a “Red Carpet Attire event”

 Deadline for videos is April 29. See Pastor A for details

—————————————————————————————————-

A Summer Mission Trip for 6th-9th Graders only!!!!!!

Don’t miss out– only the first 12 students can go!
Date: Aug 5 – 11, 2012
Where: Big Creek Missions, Bear Branch, KY
What:
1)      Children’s – leading daycamps, BYB clubs, and working with local children’s programs
2)      Community – assisting in community outreaches, working with local agencies and ministries to spread the gospel (this is among our most popular ministries!)
3)      Construction – assisting in renovation of homes of those in need.
Cost: $190 (covers meals while there, and air-conditioned facilities with beds and hot showers!), plus some money for meals on the road.
How do I sign up? The first 12 students to pay a $50 deposit will be able to go. The deposit is due by April 15. After April 15, available spots (up to our limit of 12) will depend on whether Big Creek still has space. The final balance is due by May 27. You may register and pay online or in one of the black mailboxes.
Special note from Pastor Adam regarding the trip:
I have had a great response from MS families about interest in a summer mission trip this year. I feel strongly that we should go ahead with plans for this trip. And, since last summer’s trip had to be canceled, I want to invite this year’s 9th graders to participate in the 2012 Middle School Summer Mission Trip (groups from other churches will include 6th – 12th grade students).
—————————————————————————————–

 High School Students–

                            Mark your calendars

 Sunday Evening– April 22 @ The Ammanns.  More details next week!

—————————————————————————–

Middle School Students–

Sunday June 3 we will have a special brunch/lunch during the worship hour to welcome the news 6th graders.  Don’t miss it!!

—————————————————————————————————

Teens in Ministry
Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

TIM Schedule April 2012-June 2012

4/15       Nile Nwogu, Jordan Nwogu, Foster Hayes, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen
4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker
4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann
5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji
5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker
5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu
5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle
6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter
6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen
6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder
6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
______________________________________________________________
EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com.
—————————————————————————————–
Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.
Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,
Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

Listen to MP3

In many ways, this is like saying that the wonderful benefits of my marriage like the conversation, companionship, marriage bed, lovely children and even the tax breaks would be nice to have particularly if those benefits didn’t include my wife.  - Obviously, I don’t feel this way… I love you Charity .

This week, an article in Newsweek suggested the flip-side of that argument.  The author, Andrew Sullivan, suggested that Christianity is in crises and needs to ditch the church in order to properly follow Jesus.  According to the author, Jesus is great, but the church is missing the point of the Gospel.  Essentially, the article prompts individual Christians to seek out Jesus without dealing with the “messiness” of the church.

While I can certainly agree that the church at large is flawed, Mr. Sullivan fails to realize that this messy, dirty, beat up, flawed thing… the church… is precisely what Jesus called His bride…His bride… His bride… that he would build and the gates of Hell would not withstand it.  The relationship is a marriage according to Jesus, and those are some strong words.

Today, it is popular to bash the church at large.  People like their idea of Jesus but not being part of a church.  Many people have walked away from the church while claiming to still follow Christ.  It is easy to see and scoff at the scandals and the misguided political maneuvering of much of the church.  We are an easy target.

But, in the end… if we mock the church, we must remember whose wife we are talking about.  Jesus knew what He was doing when He built the church.  He knew.  He knows, and yet, He still chose us.  He chose us, and He will not divorce Himself from the church, so why should we?

(If you want to read a solid response to the Newsweek article.  Check out the Gospel Coalition’s response.)

4/3/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

NO Middle School Wednesday mid-week ministry this week.

Enjoy your Spring Break!

—————————————————————————————–

A Summer Mission Trip for 6th-9th Graders only!!!!!!

Don’t miss out– only the first 12 students can go!

Date: Aug 5 – 11, 2012

Where: Big Creek Missions, Bear Branch, KY

What:

1)      Children’s – leading daycamps, BYB clubs, and working with local children’s programs

2)      Community – assisting in community outreaches, working with local agencies and ministries to spread the gospel (this is among our most popular ministries!) 

3)      Construction – assisting in renovation of homes of those in need.

Cost: $190 (covers meals while there, and air-conditioned facilities with beds and hot showers!), plus some money for meals on the road.

How do I sign up? The first 12 students to pay a $50 deposit will be able to go. The deposit is due by April 15. After April 15, available spots (up to our limit of 12) will depend on whether Big Creek still has space. The final balance is due by May 27. You may register and pay online or in one of the black mailboxes.

Special note from Pastor Adam regarding the trip:

I have had a great response from MS families about interest in a summer mission trip this year. I feel strongly that we should go ahead with plans for this trip. And, since last summer’s trip had to be canceled, I want to invite this year’s 9^th graders to participate in the 2012 Middle School Summer Mission Trip (groups from other churches will include 6th – 12^th grade students).

———————————————————————————–

Easter Week Schedule

Wednesday- April 4

No Middle School Meeting

 Good Friday- April 6

Family Worship and Communion at 5:30 pm

Easter Sunday- April 8

No Youth Classes on Sunday Morning

10:30 Worship as normal

No Sunday Evening High School Meeting.

__________________________________________________________

Reminder to High School Students: IF you are going to Dare to Share in Chicago– you need to pay your $40 balance by Wednesday, April 11, if you have not already done so. Also, be sure to complete the waiver  and turn it in by April 11.

________________________________________________________

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule April 2012-June 2012  

4/8         Eddie Codrington, Aly/Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji,  Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji

4/15       Nile Nwogu, Jordan Nwogu, Foster Hayes, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen

4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker

4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann

5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji

5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker

5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu

5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle

6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter

6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen

6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder

6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                                     ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Carol Burgener for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

Taking sides is certainly nothing new.  Throughout human history, issues have arisen and folks have picked a side, whether it was Ishmael vs. Isaac or Republican vs. Democrat, side taking has been reality for as long as humans have roamed this earth.  In recent weeks, social media has exploded with angry tweets, interesting facebook groups and more than its fair share of ignorance as people have taken sides.

One example of this was with video (short film) simply called Kony 2012.  When it first came out (a month or two ago) people rushed to support it.  It was their issue… their side.  The video was a documentary on Joseph Kony a warlord and fugitive operating in parts of Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Apparently, Joseph Kony has been responsible for some significant atrocities, and with the release of the video, the outcry arose, “Stop Kony”.  This seems like a good side to be on.  People (responding to the video) passionately flooded the internet with calls for action and declarations of what justice would look like.  But as time went on, other folks started moving to the other side. Groups were created on facebook and people flooded the airwaves saying that the company (Invisible Children, Inc.), who made the documentary, was misguided and less than forthright with their finances regarding received donations.

More recently, the death of the young man, Trayvon Martin, has exploded into the arena of public opinion.  Newspapers, internet columns, youtube videos and radio talk shows have talked and talked and talked. And people are taking sides.  Some claim that the young man was the aggressor while others are saying that George Zimmerman (the shooter) hunted the young man down.   This week, I have talked/heard from two teachers of racially diverse schools regarding this case.  Both of them said, “the situation is tense.  Kids have taken sides.”

In the end people have drawn lines, stated their cases and moved farther and farther from one another.  When things like these arise, how should we as Christians and members of a beautifully diverse church respond?

A couple thoughts…

1.  We should remember that, as followers of Christ, we are ultimately first and foremost bound together in the Holy Spirit.  Regardless of our race, background or citizenship, we are children of the Almighty, and regardless of our opinions on hot button issues, the bond of the faith makes us more alike than any issue that might divide us.

2.  In matters like the two previously mentioned, initially, often the wisest course of action is to keep our opinions to ourselves at least until some time has passed and things are much clearer.  Ultimately, when tensions have calmed, more information has come out and our opinions are better formed, it still may not be best to declare our opinions on the internet.  Much avoidable relational damage can be done by people simply reacting quickly, publicly.

3.  In the end, justice is God’s.  Yes, it is certainly appropriate to work for justice on the behalf of those that are struggling, but, whether or not Joseph Kony or George Zimmerman face the courts of law in this lifetime, God Almighty will bring about His justice.  And He (the all knowing judge) will make the right and true judgment.  No one escapes His gaze and gets away with anything.

4.  We must remember that we are no better than the people involved in the midst of these issues.  We ought to humble ourselves before Christ.  Only He can save us from the murderous, racist, selfish, heinous old nature that everyone (ourselves included) apart from the grace of God has.  Only Christ’s blood can cover us.  Only Christ’s blood can change a heart.  Only Christ’s blood can heal the broken

5.  We must never forget that these “issues” are not simply issues, but they are stories of real people in real pain.  These are not merely subjects to debate.  These situations are ever present realities for people who have lost loved ones.  We should not ever make things like this merely an opportunity to take sides, but rather we ought to demonstrate compassion for those who have lost.

Whose side am I on?!?  That is the questions, right?  Whose side?!?

His

3/27/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

CORRECTION-  

HS will still have a Sunday Night Meeting on Sunday, April 1 @ 6pm.–    Don’t miss it!!

———————————————————– 

A Summer Mission Trip for 6th-9th Graders only!!!!!!

Don’t miss out– only the first 12 students can go!

Date: Aug 5 – 11, 2012

Where: Big Creek Missions, Bear Branch, KY

What:

1)      Children’s – leading daycamps, BYB clubs, and working with local children’s programs

2)      Community – assisting in community outreaches, working with local agencies and ministries to spread the gospel (this is among our most popular ministries!) 

3)      Construction – assisting in renovation of homes of those in need.

Cost: $190 (covers meals while there, and air-conditioned facilities with beds and hot showers!), plus some money for meals on the road.

How do I sign up? The first 12 students to pay a $50 deposit will be able to go. The deposit is due by April 15. After April 15, available spots (up to our limit of 12) will depend on whether Big Creek still has space. The final balance is due by May 27. You may register and pay online  or in one of the black mailboxes.

Special note from Pastor Adam regarding the trip:

I have had a great response from MS families about interest in a summer mission trip this year. I feel strongly that we should go ahead with plans for this trip. And, since last summer’s trip had to be canceled, I want to invite this year’s 9^th graders to participate in the 2012 Middle School Summer Mission Trip (groups from other churches will include 6th – 12^th grade students).

——————————————————————————————–

High School Student Life @ the Beach Update

(July 8-14):

Pastor Adam has opened up a few more spots for the trip. Register online or by putting your $60 deposit in one of the black mailboxes Tomorrow!

The cost of the trip will be $279. This includes the conference, lodging and meals while there. You will have to pay for your own meals while traveling (6 – 8 meals).

_________________________________________________________________

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, March 28

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

——————————————————————————————-

Winter JAM- 2012!!

Don’t miss the chance to hear a great Christian Concert at EMU!!

When- Thursday, March 29

Depart from The BOX at 5:30pm

Return ????

Cost $10 at the door

Please RSVP via Facebook!!!!

___________________________________________________

Easter Week Schedule

Palm Sunday- April 1

No Youth Classes on Sunday Morning

10:30 Worship as normal

 Sunday Evening High School Meeting @ 6pm

Wednesday- April 4

No Middle School Meeting

 Good Friday- April 6

Family Worship and Communion at 5:30 pm

Easter Sunday- April 8

No Youth Classes on Sunday Morning

10:30 Worship as normal

No Sunday Evening High School Meeting.

__________________________________________________________

Reminder to High School Students: IF you are going to Dare to Share in Chicago– you need to pay your $40 balance by Wednesday, April 11, if you have not already done so. Also, be sure to complete the waiver  and turn it in by April 11.

________________________________________________________

Special Teens in Ministry Announcement:

We have some holes in the TIM Schedule for Easter Sunday, April 8. If you will be in town that week and are available to serve, please let Carol Burgener know. Thank you!  (cburgener@gracea2.org)

__________________________________________________________________

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule March 2012-June 2012  

4/1         Nile Nwogu, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Griffin Beck

4/8         Eddie Codrington, Amara Ikeji,  Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji

4/15       Nile Nwogu, Jordan Nwogu, Foster Hayes, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen

4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker

4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann

5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji

5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker

5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu

5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle

6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter

6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen

6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder

6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                                     ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

Dear Students and Parents,

There are several new items below– read carefully.

Here’s this week’s news:

A Summer Mission Trip for 6th-9th Graders only!!!!!!

Date: Aug 5 – 11, 2012

Where: Big Creek Missions, Bear Branch, KY

What:

1)      Children’s – leading daycamps, BYB clubs, and working with local children’s programs

2)      Community – assisting in community outreaches, working with local agencies and  ministries to spread the gospel (this is among our most popular ministries!)

3)      Construction – assisting in renovation of homes of those in need.

Cost: $190 (covers meals while there, and air-conditioned facilities with beds and hot showers!), plus some money for meals on the road.

How do I sign up? The first 12 students to pay a $50 deposit will be able to go. The deposit is due by April 15. After April 15, available spots (up to our limit of 12) will depend on whether Big Creek still has space. The final balance is due by May 27. You may register and pay online (Event Registration on the GBC website) or in one of the black mailboxes.

Special note from Pastor Adam regarding the trip:

I have had a great response from MS families about interest in a summer mission trip this year. I feel strongly that we should go ahead with plans for this trip. And, since last summer’s trip had to be canceled, I want to invite this year’s 9^th graders to participate in the 2012 Middle School Summer Mission Trip (groups from other churches will include 6th – 12^th grade students).

—————————————————————————————–

High School Student Life @ the Beach Update

(July 8-14):

Pastor Adam has opened up a few more spots for the trip. Register online or by putting your $60 deposit in one of the black mailboxes BY MARCH 28.

The cost of the trip will be $279. This includes the conference, lodging and meals while there. You will have to pay for your own meals while traveling (6 – 8 meals).

Watch for an email from Carol Burgener with details. If you don’t receive an email by Friday and are interested in the trip, please contact Pastor Adam.

_____________________________________________________________________

Winter JAM- 2012!!

Don’t miss the chance to hear a great Christian Concert at EMU!!

When- Thursday, March 29

Depart from The BOX at 5:30pm

Return ????

Cost $10 at the door

Please RSVP via Facebook!!!!

___________________________________________________

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, March 21

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Attention ALL High School Students

THIS Sunday Night 3/25 @ The Box @ 6 PM

Be there– you don’t want to miss it!!

————————————————-

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, March 25, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

—————————————————————————————————

Looking Ahead……….

Palm Sunday- April 1

No Youth Classes on Sunday Morning

10:30 Worship as normal

No Sunday Evening High School Meeting.

Easter Sunday- April 8

No Youth Classes on Sunday Morning

10:30 Worship as normal

No Sunday Evening High School Meeting.

__________________________________________________________

Reminder to High School Students: IF you are going to Dare to Share in Chicago– you need to pay your $40 balance by Wednesday, April 11, if you have not already done so. Also, be sure to complete the waiver and turn it in by April 11.

________________________________________________________

 Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule March 2012-June 2012  

3/25       Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

4/1         Nile Nwogu, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Griffin Beck

4/8         Eddie Codrington, Amara Ikeji, Lindsey Hayter, Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji

4/15       Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen

4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker

4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann

5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji

5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker

5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu

5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle

6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter

6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen

6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder

6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                                     ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

1.  First, through phone calls, facebook etc, within minutes of the tornado, people began checking on GBC folks in Dexter.  Efforts were made to reach everyone from GBC that we know lives in the Dexter area.  The flood of phone calls etc. was amazing.  This church really cares.

2.  The news is reporting that no one has been seriously injured from the tornado, and our own phone calls etc. have yet to turn up anyone from GBC who was injured in any way or whose home was damaged.  If you or if someone you know from GBC has been injured or has had their home damaged and they need some assistance, please let your small group and the office know, so we can serve you.

3.  I have placed a phone call and email to the pastor of Dexter United Methodist letting him know that GBC will help in any way necessary.  He has responded and will let me know what their needs are.

4.  The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement through the schools to let people know that they are currently NOT allowing volunteers into the highly damaged areas.  Professionals are handling the clean up and making sure the area is safe of downed power lines etc.  Driving through there again today, I noticed that both the damage but also the current clean-up effort are amazing.

5.  The Sheriff’s office is saying that if you wish to contribute financially in some way to the efforts, you may make a financial donation to the American Red Cross.

That is the pertinent info as of right now.

Here is the rest of the story: God is good and merciful.  While homes were destroyed, lives were not.  Thank Him.  In His wisdom, He allowed this to take place, and we can pray that through this, more people will turn to Christ, and the Church (capital C) will rise up and serve as Christ would have us.

The number one thing you can and should do in this circumstance or any other like this is to pray.  I am not saying that you shouldn’t give or volunteer in some way.  Absolutely, I hope that Christians are the first volunteers and the biggest givers. Those things are good things, but prayer is really the best thing.  It is more critical, more powerful and even… dare I say it… more practical. In this case, since physical action is not an option for us “non-professionals” just yet, lets take this very real opportunity to engage in some prayer action.

3/13/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Sunday Nights are now more fun!

Welcome Amanda and Tarah!!! Amanda Hodge and Tarah Webb have recently joined our High School Leadership Team!  Thanks Ladies for being a part of our group! We appreciate you!

—————————————————-

Middle School @ Zap Zone!!

When?Tomorrow- Wednesday, March 14

Time? 6:15- 8:30 (NOTE EARLY TIME)

Cost? $12

The DEADLINE TO SIGN UP  HAS PASSED-

#1 There are a few spaces left PLEASE contact Pastor A if you are still interested in going

#2 IF you “show up” on Wednesday without signing up we cannot promise space .

#3 IF you “show up” on Wednesday without signing up with Pastor Adam please bring exactly $12– no change will be available.

#4 The is NO alternate programming for Middle School Students not going to Zap Zone.

—————————————————————————————

Attention HS Teens and Parents………….

High School Community Outreach/Service Project: This Sunday night in the Box.

Our high school group will participate in a service project this Sunday March 18, by putting together a theme-based gift basket for a charity event to be held in Saline at the end of the month.  Different groups, organizations, churches, and individuals put together these themed gift baskets and donate them to this event to be held in Saline.  People come to the event, vote for their favorite baskets by donating money, and then all of the proceeds and baskets are given to local charities for distribution.  These charities could include Food Gatherers and the Salvation Army just to name a couple.

Our goal is to come up with a faith based theme that clearly shows the love of Jesus.  We are thinking of a theme such as “Jesus Loves the Little Children”.  In any case, we want our basket to be done with excellence and to the best of our ability.  So, I am asking our teens and parents to consider bringing in a cash donation this Sunday night so we can buy items to put into our gift basket.  I think any amount would be great and much appreciated but the more generous people are, the more generous we can be as we come up with items to fill our basket.  So, if you would be willing to pray about what the Lord might have you give, I would greatly appreciate it. 

Students, this Sunday night we will work on the artistic components of the basket and we will do our shopping together.  Please plan on being there as we have yet another meaningful opportunity to serve together in the name of Jesus.  We will meet at our normal time in the Box at 6PM.  See you then.

PA

Reminder to High School Students: IF you are going to Dare to Share in Chicago– you need to pay your $40 balance by Wednesday, April 11, if you have not already done so. Also, be sure to complete the waiver  and turn it in by April 11.

——————————————————-

              Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, March 18, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

————————————————————————————————-

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

 Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

3/18      Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

3/25       Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

4/1         Nile Nwogu, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Griffin Beck

4/8         Eddie Codrington, Amara Ikeji, Lindsey Hayter, Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji

4/15       Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen

4/22       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Nick Recker

4/29       Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Eddie Codrington, Aly Dahlmann

5/6         Foster Hayes, Lindsey Hayter, Annika Dahlmann, Amara Ikeji, Chidera Ikeji

5/13       Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Jack McEwen, Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker

5/20       Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder, Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu

5/27       Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Griffin Beck, Alicia Ammann, Andrew Ardle

6/3         Eddie Codrington, Annika Dahlmann, Foster Hayes, Aly Dahlmann, Lindsey Hayter

6/10       Chidera Ikeji, Didi Ikeji, Ian McEwen, Amara Ikeji, Jack McEwen

6/17       Nile Nwogu, Nick Recker, Michael Schickling, Emma Sowder, Mia Sowder

6/24       Natasha Webb, Delphanie Wu, Eric Wu, Alex Ammann, Alicia Ammann
                                                     ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

There was a “question” that came up, that we tried to answer.  And it was, “How do you know when you are simply being driven, competitive, excellent and ambitious, and it is a good thing?  Vs.  How do we know when we are worshipping a god of success?  Where is the line?”

We are always looking for the line, but particularly in this case, I don’t think it was very clear to any of us in the discussion where that line was exactly.  There are times when I know that I have crossed the line, but I am not always sure how it happens.  So, here are some questions that I came away from our discussion with that help me know when I am centered on God’s definition of service to Him vs. worshipping a god of success.  I need to survey my heart daily, and maybe these questions will help you as well.

1.  When I am really frustrated or even angry about something at work or a task I am trying to accomplish, is my indignation righteous “Christ-like” anger, or is it more because my false god is being assaulted?  What is really bothering me?

2.  Am I constantly, genuinely giving God the credit for the things that go well.  Or do I secretly sneak in some falsely humble credits to myself when talking to others?

3.  Am I threatened or annoyed by the success of others around me?  Can I congratulate them without comparing myself to them?

4.  Imagine: if my “level”, position, title or “success level” in my company never goes any higher, or if I am fired, knocked down a few pegs on the ladder, or my revenues decrease, can I rest in the fact that what I have in Christ is all I really need, and the rest is details?

5.  Do I idolize, read books on, attend seminars etc. by highly “successful” people in my field and daydream about achieving what they did… more than I think on, read books by, and focus on the life of Christ and His great teachings and saints of old.

Sometimes, I fear that we can look too hard for the line and miss an opportunity to really focus on Christ.  So, lets do this little heart check with these questions and see where our focus really is and which (G)od we are worshipping.  Remember… in the end, we will be judged on faithfulness not finances… service not “success”.  The point of our lives is to be faithful and wise with what we have been given.  The goal is to, by grace, serve Christ excellently, and see what He does with that.  Ultimately, He is the one whose definition of success is the one that matters.

Heart survey says…

Listen to MP3

What we really “get” when we become a Christian is… wait for it… Christ.  I know profound, right?  Beyond some nebulous “benefit” or some potential new group of friends or a greater sense of inner peace; Jesus is what it is all about.  And He is a personal God, and in any relationship there are moments where things can become uncomfortable.

I was turned on to an article titled Religion for Everyone in last week’s Wall Street Journal written by a man named Allain de Botton.  Among other things in his article, the author said, ”Everyone stands to learn something from the ways in which religion delivers sermons, promotes morality, engenders a spirit of community, inspires travel, trains minds and encourages gratitude at the beauty of life. In a world beset by fundamentalists of both the believing and the secular variety, it must be possible to balance a rejection of religious faith with a selective reverence for religious rituals and concepts.”

Huh?  Did he just say what I think he said.

As the article continues, the author suggests that smart people will try to take the good stuff from church (specifically the community of relationships) without dealing with the messiness of dealing with God.  Again… huh?

While I obviously think Mr. De Botton is completely off base with this line of thinking, I believe that he puts into words what many people want from “faith”.  They want the Christianity without Christ.  They want the fellowship without the source of the fellowship.  They want the good without the God.  But last time I checked, you can’t spell “GOoD” without those three pesky letters.

Jesus paid it all. Come and join us as we remember Christ’s death on the cross.               

Sunday, April 8 at 10:30 am

He is risen!  Come and join us as we celebrate!

3/6/2012

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Middle School @ Zap Zone!!

When? Wednesday, March 14

Time? 6:15- 8:30 (NOTE EARLY TIME)

Cost? $12

For transportation purposes the

DEADLINE is 3/11—Only 4 days away!

You must be PAID to reserve a spot.

(As always sign-up is available on-line or by placing $ in one of the black mailboxes)

—————————————————————————————————

Reminder to High School Students: IF you are going to Dare to Share in Chicago– you need to pay your $40 balance by Wednesday, April 11, if you have not already done so. Also, be sure to complete the waiver  and turn it in by April 11.

——————————————————-

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, March 7

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, March 11, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

————————————————————————————————–

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

 Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Mar 11- Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18- Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25- Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

This week remember the prayer: God, I can’t, but You can.

2/28/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

High School Progressive Dinner and Bowling!!!!!!!

TO ENSURE WE HAVE ENOUGH TRANSPORTATION AND FOOD…

   YOU MUST RSVP ASAP!! 

RSVP via FACEBOOK= GOOD

RSVP via GBC online registration= BEST

When?  THIS Sunday  Night- March 4

Cost? $7 (for the cost of bowling) (invite a friend and they can come for $3)

Time: Depart GBC at 4pm and return at 10pm

PLEASE REMEMBER TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK EARLY THIS WEEKEND– NO EXCUSES!!

————————————

 Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, February 29

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, March 4, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

———————————————————————————————–

Middle School @ Zap Zone!!

When? Wednesday, March 14

Time? 6:15- 8:30 (NOTE EARLY TIME)

Cost? $12

For transportation purposes the DEADLINE is 3/11.

You must be PAID to reserve a spot.

(As always sign-up is available on-line or by placing $ in one of the black mailboxes)

————————————————————————————————

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Mar 4 -   Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11- Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18- Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25-Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

 Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

 Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

2/21/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

High School Progressive Dinner and Bowling!!!!!!!

When?  Sunday  Night- March 4

Cost? $7 (for the cost of bowling) (invite a friend and they can come for $3)

Time: Depart GBC at 4pm and return at 10pm

PLEASE REMEMBER TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK EARLY THAT WEEKEND– NO EXCUSES!!

————————————

 Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, February 22

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, February 26, 2012

9:30 am–

Sunday morning both Middle School AND High School Students will meet together at The BOX for a special speaker!  Keith Stanton, from New Tribes Ministries, will be sharing with us.  Keith and his wife Jacqueline are members at GBC and involved in schooling and equipping people for ministry as well as the mission field.  I think you will enjoy Keith and will benefit from what he has to say.  Don’t miss it.

10:30 AM- Worship

—————————————————————————————————

Middle School @ Zap Zone!!

When? Wednesday, March 14

Time? 6:15- 8:30 (NOTE EARLY TIME)

Cost? $12

For transportation purposes the DEADLINE is 3/11.

You must be PAID to reserve a spot.

(As always sign-up is available on-line or by placing $ in one of the black mailboxes)

——————————————————————————————–

Sunday Night– High School Students– Be THERE!

Where?  The Box

When? Sunday Evening, 2/26 @ 6 PM-7:30 PM

———————————————————————

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Feb 26 -  Alicia Ammann, Griffin Beck, Eddie Codrington, Natasha Webb

Mar 4 -  Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11- Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18-  Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25- Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

2/14/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Get Red-dy Middle School!

Coming Soon….. “IncrREDible RED night!”

When: Wednesday, Feb. 15^th, 6:30-8:15p.m.

Where: THE BOX

What: It will be an IncREDible night with Red games, Red prizes, Red food, and everyone in Red!

THERE WILL BE A PRIZE FOR THE PERSON WEARING THE MOST RED!!!

————————————————————-

Sunday Night High School Meeting!

Hey gang, we might do something different this Sunday night (2/19) since there is no school on Monday.  Watch Facebook this week for all the details!!

Pastor A

——————————————————–

High School Progressive Dinner and Bowling!!!!!!!

When?  Sunday  Night- March 4

Cost? $7 (for the cost of bowling) (invite a friend and they can come for $3)

Time: Depart GBC at 4pm and return at 10pm

PLEASE REMEMBER TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK EARLY THAT WEEKEND– NO EXCUSES!!

————————————

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, February 19, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

————————————————————————————————–

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

 Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Feb 19 -           Emma Sowder, Alex Ammann, Mia Sowder, Andrew Ardle

Feb 26 -           Alicia Ammann, Griffin Beck, Eddie Codrington, Natasha Webb

Mar 4 -            Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11-           Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18-           Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25-           Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

Drumroll please… here it is… Never make a big decision in February.  That is it.  That is the principle. Never make a big decision in February.   Bank on it; live by it; chew on it.  Done… Oh… what does it mean?!?!  Good question.

I have found that I am tempted to make large and sometimes unwise decisions when I am in a bad season of life.  It feels like the grass is greener, the weather warmer and the sugar sweeter “over there” when life is a struggle.  If I am emotionally, financially and spiritually stressed, I tend to wrestle with having the wisdom necessary for good decision making, and I would guess that this is true of all of us to some degree or another.

So, I have made it a principle to forgo making big decisions (if I am able) when I am in a funk or a bad spot or a spiritually dry place.  When my time with God has been consistent and rich and I am in a healthy emotional place, I make better decisions.

So what does this have to do with February?  Well, it really isn’t about February.  Yes, it is true that in most years, I have found the weather and dreariness of February makes me a little bit more antsy and a little less wise.  I start pining for beaches, warmth and new adventures.  So, in my mind, February became synonymous with a rough season of life.  This year has been lovely, weather-wise, so these feelings have been a touch less acute.  Nevertheless, the principle is about that state of mind, body, and soul that we are in and the best time for decision making.

2-7-12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here is this week’s news:

High School Teens– PLEASE remember our service project THIS Sunday night!!

We need EVERYONE to help with this awesome project.  Email or Facebook Pastor Adam to let him know you will be there.

Arrive- 4:40 pm

Childcare until 7pm

7:05 Leave to go out to dinner with Pastor Adam!!! 

 His treat!

—————————————————————————————-

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, February 12, 2012

9:30 AM- Middle School meets in Rms 23-26

High School meets in The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

————————————————————————————–

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, February 8

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Get Red-dy Middle School!

Coming Soon….. “IncrREDible RED night!”

When: Wednesday, Feb. 15^th, 6:30-8:15p.m.

Where: THE BOX

What: It will be an IncREDible night with Red games, Red prizes, Red food, and everyone in Red!

THERE WILL BE A PRIZE FOR THE PERSON WEARING THE MOST RED!!!

—————————————

High School Teens– Mark your calendars!

When?  Sunday, March 4th

What?  Progressive Dinner

Details to follow

—————————-

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Feb 12 -  Foster Hayes, Chidera Ikeji, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling

Feb 19 -  Emma Sowder, Alex Ammann, Mia Sowder, Andrew Ardle

Feb 26 – Alicia Ammann, Griffin Beck, Eddie Codrington, Natasha Webb

Mar 4 -  Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11- Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18- Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25-Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow!  GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Listen to MP3

Listen to MP3

1/31/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

IT IS FINALLY TIME FOR SNOW CAMP 2012!!!!

After months of planning and talking– Snow Camp is here!

#1 Arrive at the church no later than 3:15– the bus and van will depart at 3:30– you don’t want to miss it!

#2 ALL paperwork AND $$ MUST be turned in to Carol by 9 am on Thursday morning.

#3 Don’t forget to leave ALL electronics at home– including ipods and cell phones. All leaders will have cell phones in case of an emergency.

————————————————————————————————–

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, February 5, 2012

9:30 AM-There will be NO Youth Classes because of Snow Camp

Any Teens NOT going to Snow Camp that would like to work in Children’s Ministry during the 9:30 hour, please contact Pastor Adam by Thursday at noon!

10:30 AM- Worship

————————————————————————————————-

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, February 1

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

__________________________________________________

Get Red-dy Middle School!

Coming Soon….. “IncrREDible RED night!”

When: Wednesday, Feb. 15^th, 6:30-8:15p.m.

Where: THE BOX

What: It will be an IncREDible night with Red games, Red prizes, Red food, and everyone in Red!

THERE WILL BE A PRIZE FOR THE PERSON WEARING THE MOST RED!!!

——————————————————————-

Attention High School Students-

                                Mark your calendar

Sunday Evening February 12 we will do a service project for young families in our church.  We will be providing childcare at GBC from 5pm-7pm.  At 7pm (after the children leave) we will have our own special activity.  More details coming soon, but mark your calendars and plan to serve!

————————————————————–

Dare to Share Evangelism Training Conference

This is now closed– all spots are taken.

—————————————–

Deadline is TODAY

 High School Summer Trip Info:

What: Student Life @ The Beach

Featuring acclaimed speaker Louie Giglio and  Top Christian recording artist Chris Tomlin!!!!!!!!

(If you don’t know who they are– google them)

Where: Daytona Beach, Florida (I know, what a boring and lame location, right?)

Why: To be challenged in your walk with Christ, to be refreshed physically and spiritually, to build relationships, and to have a blast!

When: July 8-14, 2012

How Much: Cost is not fully determined yet but the conference itself (includes conference cost, hotel stay, all breakfasts, most lunches, and transportation) will not exceed $279 per person.  I am hopeful that I can figure out a way to offer partial scholarships to students who serve during soccer camp week.

Registration: Online registration is closed. Call Pastor Adam (663-0589 or 546-4084) if you want to go and have not yet registered.

 More Info: Please see the informational letter on the website under Teen Ministry Activities.

——————————————————————————————–

STOCK THE BOX– PART 2

Each Middle School and High School student should bring 1 sweet snack and 1 salty snack plus a multi-serve beverage to “Stock The BOX”.  Please bring food with at least a 2 month shelf live to Pastor Adam’s office or The BOX ASAP.

————————————————————–

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Feb 5 -             Annika Dahlmann, Nick Recker, Aly Dahlmann

Feb 12 -           Foster Hayes, Chidera Ikeji, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling

Feb 19 -           Emma Sowder, Alex Ammann, Mia Sowder, Andrew Ardle

Feb 26 -           Alicia Ammann, Griffin Beck, Eddie Codrington, Natasha Webb

Mar 4 -            Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11-           Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18-           Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25-           Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow! There sure is a ton of information! GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

Class 102-How Do Christians Think? Apologetics

Class 202- How do Christians Live?

Class 302- How Do Christians Reach Others?

1/24/12

Dear Students and Parents,

Here’s this week’s news:

Deadline is 1 week away!!!

High School Summer Trip Info:

What: Student Life @ The Beach

Featuring acclaimed speaker Louie Giglio and  Top Christian recording artist Chris Tomlin!!!!!!!!

(If you don’t know who they are– google them)

Where: Daytona Beach, Florida (I know, what a boring and lame location, right?)

Why: To be challenged in your walk with Christ, to be refreshed physically and spiritually, to build relationships, and to have a blast!

When: July 8-14, 2012

How Much: Cost is not fully determined yet but the conference itself (includes conference cost, hotel stay, all breakfasts, most lunches, and transportation) will not exceed $279 per person.  I am hopeful that I can figure out a way to offer partial scholarships to students who serve during soccer camp week.

Registration: $60 due January 31^st.  I am planning on taking the first 12 students who pay their deposit. You may pay online (Event Registration on the homepage)  or with a check in one of the black mailboxes.  More Info: Please see the informational letter on theiswebsite under Teen Ministry Activities.

——————————————————————————————–

STOCK THE BOX– PART 2

Each Middle School and High School student should bring 1 sweet snack and 1 salty snack plus a multi-serve beverage to “Stock The BOX”.  Please bring food with at least a 2 month shelf live to Pastor Adam’s office or The BOX ASAP.

————————————————————–

Sunday Mornings at GBC

THIS Sunday, January 29, 2012

9:30 AM- Youth Classes

Middle School – Rms 23-26  High School – The BOX

10:30 AM- Worship

—————————————————————————————————

Middle School Wednesday Ministry Continues TOMORROW!!

Who?  All GBC Middle School Students and their friends

When?  Wednesday, January 25

Where?  The BOX

Time? 6:30-8:15 pm

Come for a fun time of laughing and learning!

————————————————————————–

Sunday Night– High School Students– Be THERE!

Where?  The Box

When? Sunday Evening, 1/29 @ 6 PM-7:30 PM

———————————————————————

Snow Camp is NOW closed!!!!

—————————-

To all registered Snow Campers:

If you did not receive a letter from Pastor Adam last week with important Snow Camp information– Contact Carol Burgener ASAP–cburgener@gracea2.org

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ONLY 1 SPOT LEFT!!!!  ACT QUICKLY!!!

Dare to Share Evangelism Training Conference

Who: Any GBC High School Student

Where: Chicago, IL

When: April 13-15

How Much: $95 (includes transportation, conference, lodging in hotel, and some meals)

 Why?  Outside of snow camp, I consider this event/weekend to be the most valuable thing we will do in high school ministry this year.  Please commit early and don’t miss the opportunity to be trained how to better share and defend your faith.

Pastor Adam

——————————————————–

Teens in Ministry

Remember– TIM is now “2nd hour”

 Teens in Ministry is our ministry to GBC Children on Sunday mornings.  Teens serve during the worship hour.  If you cannot serve, please try to trade with someone else. With the new Sunday morning GBC schedule, please be sure your parents can stay until noon on the mornings you serve.  Your classroom needs you to be there until the end of class.   

TIM Schedule January - March 2012  

Jan 29 -            Ian McEwen, Lindsey Hayter, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen

Feb 5 –             Annika Dahlmann, Nick Recker, Aly Dahlmann

Feb 12 -           Foster Hayes, Chidera Ikeji, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling

Feb 19 -           Emma Sowder, Alex Ammann, Mia Sowder, Andrew Ardle

Feb 26 -           Alicia Ammann, Griffin Beck, Eddie Codrington, Natasha Webb

Mar 4 -            Ian McEwen, Didi Ikeji, Jack McEwen, Lindsey Hayter

Mar 11-           Nick Recker, Annika Dahlmann, Aly Dahlmann, Foster Hayes

Mar 18-           Emma Sowder, Amara Ikeji, Michael Schickling, Chidera Ikeji

Mar 25 -         Mia Sowder, Alex Ammann, Andrew Ardle, Alicia Ammann

                                                        ________________________________________________________________

EVERYONE–Please make sure we have the proper email address for you and your family. Pastor Adam would like for each youth group member and their parents to see the Enews every week. Send additional emails to dobhodges@aol.com

—————————————————————————————–

Wow! There sure is a ton of information! GBC Youth Ministry is an exciting place to be involved.

Remember that you can find the following things on the GBC website, under Ministries– Teen:

A month’s worth of the Enews

GBC Youth Permission Slip

Lake Ann Registration Form

Dare to Share waiver

Pastor Adam’s letter about Student Life @ the Beach

Instructions for on-line registration

Questions?– Feel free to contact Pastor Adam Morse 663-0589 or amorse@gracea2.org.

In His Service,

Mary-Lynn Hodges for Pastor Adam

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