Filed under: Jim Lyon - Posts
Fortitude - Light and Hope
by Jim Lyon, Senior Pastor
Everybody knows that the fabled pilgrims set sail on the Mayflower in 1620 and headed for Virginia—but landed in Massachusetts instead. Ouch. And you think you got lost trying to find that new little restaurant in Fishers. And then there was that whole surviving the New England winter thing (47% of the Pilgrims, in fact, did not survive), bitter cold, howling winds, blowing snow, and all the rest. Very unpleasant.
As troubled as that first year in the Plymouth Colony was, this band of Pilgrims interpreted their experience as just another step forward in their journey with God. They were accustomed to making sacrifices for their faith; the harrowing challenges of building a new life in the New World were preferred over the terrible price they had already paid for their old life in the Old World.
The Pilgrims were a congregation of believers who refused to conform to the prevailing (at the time) Church of England. While living at home in England, the Pilgrims found that it was actually against the law not to go to Anglican services on Sunday; every Englishman who did not attend was fined the equivalent of six pounds (about $10 today). Jobs were scarce, ridicule was abundant, official and social ostracism was unbearable. They would not accept what they considered to be a corrupted practice of Christianity and elected to flee first to The Netherlands. In a way welcoming, Holland still was a stretch for them; the Pilgrims found the cultural adjustments very rough. They treasured their English language and heritage, but saw it all falling quickly away as their children began to speak Dutch. Amsterdam, even way back then, was a place of moral license, in which the Pilgrims felt very uncomfortable and threatened. And it appeared that Spain might reassert control over the low countries (like Holland). The Pilgrims feared trading the persecution of one crown for another. Where to go? What to do?
Filed under: Feature Articles
Christmas Blues Survival
by April Linville, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.
Holiday time is here! A time for festive partying with friends, and family, sharing good food, gifts, laughter – and getting overwhelmed and depressed. Do you dread the holidays? Christmas can produce fatigue and anxiety, create financial tensions, bring up painful memories and leave people wishing for January 2 to get here already. The following are ideas for addressing the holiday blues.
- Be honest with yourself, God and your friends about what you are experiencing. If you are in a grieving stage of your life or your recovery, acknowledge it. Let others join you emotionally and pray for/with you. Ask God to bring healing.
- Set realistic expectations for events and gatherings you will attend, not overbooking nor isolating. Look for ways to celebrate God’s gift of Jesus to the world (and to you). This may mean attending a Christmas Eve service or writing God a thank you letter or keeping a nativity set in your home. Even if you are feeling down during this season, ask yourself, “How can I celebrate the gift of Jesus now?”
- Watch out for overspending just to make yourself feel better. This can take your focus off the spiritual meaning of Christmas and add stress. Set a Christmas Budget and stick to it. Remember that you can wish others a Merry Christmas just by saying it or giving a homemade gift or sending a card.
- Pray for spiritual family. Jesus said, “Who are my mother, brothers and sisters, but those who do the will of my Father?” (See Mark 3:33-35.) Also, Psalm 68:6 tells us that God sets the lonely in families. Take God at his word. Ask him to bring a spiritual family to you and to help you recognize when he is arranging that. Also, whether you have the Holiday Blues or not, ask God to help you see ways to include spiritual family in your plans.
If you are in need of a professional mental health counselor with a Biblical Christian worldview to discuss these or other issues, please call Linville Services at (765) 642-1853. Visit www.linvilleservices.com
Filed under: Weekly News and Events
NEWS AND EVENTS - November 26, 2008
Highlights
Pastor’s Press Conference
Wednesday, December 3 at 6:30pm
The Commons
Here’s how it works: As the program begins, ushers will hand out Pastor’s Press Conference Question Forms on which to write any question on any subject. The ushers collect the questions and a volunteer randomly selects one at a time. Pastor Lyon attempts, on the spot, to offer a reply within a biblical frame. Come to ask; come to listen; come with an open mind.
North Kids Christmas Program
Sunday, December 7 at 6:30pm
Main Auditorium
A celebration of songs, laughter and fun! Children from North Kids, MPC’s childcare ministry for children ages 1-6th grade, present a delightful Christmas program. Come see the children sing, share, and delight everyone. Everyone is welcome!
AVAD
“Christmas Around The World”
Wednesday, December 10 at 6:30pm
The Commons
Enjoy a delightful and engaging Christmas experience with international guests, taste international food, learn about Christmas traditions in other countries and listen to Christmas stories from around the world.
Christmas Dinner with Carols and Sharing
Wednesday, December 17
The Commons
- 5:00-6:30pm Enjoy a delicious Christmas Dinner with ham and all the trimmings. (See Lighthouse Café below for details.)
- 6:30-7:45pm A Christmas celebration of singing favorite Christmas carols, sharing Christmas memories, traditions and stories of God’s working in the lives of people.
A Christmas Carol
December 12,13,14 at 7:00pm
Main Auditorium
Celebrate the season at our 18th annual musical production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The 100+ member cast, crew and live orchestra bring to life the heart-warming tale of hope and new beginnings. The general admission event is free. An offering will be received to benefit Dove Harbor, a ministry to women in crisis. *** E-vite a friend ***
Christmas Eve at Madison Park
Wednesday, December 24 at 11:00pm
Main Auditorium This unforgettable service, featuring a children’s nativity re-enactment, a glorious reading of the Christmas Story, and Holy Communion is loved by kids and grown-ups alike. As the clock strikes midnight, it magnificently welcomes Christmas Day to the tune of “Silent Night” as thousands of candles bathe the room with light.
*** Evite a friend ***
Join the Journey:
Exciting destinations await!
Wednesday, December 17 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room
Join the Journey provides the essential information you need to know before calling Madison Park Church your church home. The class answers questions such as who we are, what we believe, and our church membership process in a relaxed, fun, and interactive format. You’ll meet others who are on the same journey as you and begin the process of getting connected. This class is offered on the third Wednesday of each month. The next class is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room. Find details or sign-up in the Hospitality Room or click here.
Ministry Happenings
Dreams Work: Thank you for your participation in the Dreams Work Initiative - it is vital. If you have not already done so, please prayerfully consider making a sacrificial commitment, remembering that this gift is above and beyond a regular tithe. Commitment cards are available at the Information Center or click here to submit your commitment online. As you now begin giving toward your commitment, please designate “Dreams Work” in the memo section of your check.
Adult Ministries:
Grow U Fall Semester Ends: The Wednesday night Grow U Fall Semester was completed on November 19. The Grow U Winter and Spring Semester will begin on Wednesday, January 14. Click here to see a complete line up of Grow U classes.
Advent Grow U Elective: Sundays, November 16 – December 21at 10:45am in Room 179. Preparing Our Hearts for Christ’s coming introduces and covers the historic time of preparation for the coming of Christ. As we celebrate Jesus’ first advent (Christmas), the disciplines and anticipation which are part of this season put our hearts in readiness for His second coming. This class is open to anyone and each session includes a special moment of ideas for sharing advent with others, especially children. Contact: Jennifer Wilson (765) 649-8095 or jjwilson@anderson.edu.
Financial Peace University: Join thousands of people who have benefited from the 14-week course taught by author and radio personality Dave Ramsey. An orientation Meeting will be held on Sunday, January 4 at 9:00am in Room 181. Register online at daveramsey.com or contact Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education, at the Church Office.
Intercessory Prayer Time: Wednesdays at 6:30pm in Room 181. Spend time in prayer, praise, thanksgiving, confession and petition with a specific focus each week. Facilitated by Diane Vosburg and Chris Zile.
RefresHer Christmas Brunch: Tuesday, December 2 at 10:00am in The Commons. Ladies, come and enjoy the annual RefresHer Christmas Brunch with a special holiday performance by the 5th and 6th grade choir of Liberty Christian School followed by a brunch buffet served in Crossroads Auditorium. For more information contact Becky Rosenberg at (765) 642-8560 or Tami Seulean at (765) 643-9233.
Come and Go Prayer: Mondays 5:00-8:00pm. The Main Auditorium is open for Come and Go Prayer each Monday evening for individuals or groups to pray for our church, our nation, and family and friends. Everyone is invited.
Singles Hang Out Night: Saturday, December 20 at 7:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium. All singles are invited to participate in a Game Night on the third Saturday of every month. Bring your favorite games and snacks to share. For more information contact: Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education at the Church Office.
Single Among Friends Small Group meets on the first and third Sundays of every month, 6:00-8:00pm at Madison Park Church in room 180. “A Life Well Lived,” an in depth study of Ecclesiastes. For more information, contact Nancy Bitner at (765) 649-0928.
Convergence Breaks for the Christmas Holiday: The college and young adult service, Convergence, will break for Thanksgiving November 30 and for the Christmas Holiday beginning December21and reconvene on January 18. Contact Senior Asociate Pastor Jeff Matas at the Church Office.
Convergence Luncheon: Sunday, December7 following worship in Crossroads Auditorium. All college and young adults are invited to this Christmas luncheon and fellowship.
Student Ministries Volunteer Christmas Party: Tuesday, December 16, 6:00pm-8:00pm hosted at the Fauntleroy home, 1312 N 400 E, Anderson. RSVP to confirm your dinner reservation by December 10 to Rhonda Hollingsworth (765) 642-2000. For driving directions contact Becky Fauntleroy at (765) 620-3120.
Student Ministries:
For more information contact Student Ministries at the Church Office.
Impact Jr. High Ministry:
Sundays at 9:00am in Crossroads Auditorium
- November 30-December 28 - the Christmas series will look at the dynamics of family life, including Jesus’ family. In this season when families spend a lot of time together this series will help make it the best time possible - even in the most unexpected situations.
- Parent Sunday: Sunday, December 7, 9:00am. All parents and guardians are invited to join their Jr. High student to share about the gift of family.
- Christmas Pajama Party: Sunday, December 14, 9:00am. Just role out of bed and invite a friend for a Christmas pajama party as we look at our role in our family and maybe watch a cartoon or two!
Wednesdays in small groups from 6:30-7:45pm in Room 176
Impact Christmas Party: Friday, December 19 from 6:30pm to 9:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium. Get dressed-up for a Christmas dinner! A night of friends, fun and food! Tickets are $5.00 and must be purchased by Wednesday, December 17.
Christmas Sunday, December 21: Impact Students will attend worship in the Main Auditorium with their families to celebrate Christmas together. This is an intentional part of the Christmas series helping students focus on their family this season.
Ignite Sr. High Ministry:
- Wednesdays at 6:30-7:45pm in Crossroads Auditorium.
- Sunday School: Sundays at 9:00am in Room 180 - Bible study for Senior High School students. Series Study November 19 - December 10, STIC (So This Is Christmas).
Ignite Christmas Party: Wednesday, December 17, 6:30-7:45pm in Crossroads Auditorium.
ABS Holiday Schedule: ABS will not meet on November 30, December 21,28, or January 4 resuming regular schedule on January 11.
Student Ministries Water for Water Swim Party: Saturday, December 6 from 9:00pm until midnight at Anderson University Pool in the Wellness Center. The Costs of $10 per person will all benefit the Well Project in Kenya. For more information, contact Student Ministries at (765) 642-2000.
Merge (Student Ministries Service Project): Saturday, December 13. Visiting nursing homes to visit with residents, play games, sing carols and make crafts - spreading joy to those who need extra Christmas cheer. Contact: Pastor Gretchen Olson.
Children’s Ministry:
Family Times Virtue Packs: Designed to give you a simple way to help your kids grow in faith and character. This wonderful resource provides you with the biblical tools to reinforce what your children are learning on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. December’s theme is “Generosity.” Virtue packs are available in the Children’s Center for $9.00. For more information, contact Pastor Paula Spear at (765) 642-2000.
Birthday Party for Jesus: Wednesday, December 17 from 6:30 to 7:45pm in the Children’s Center, for all children age 2 through grade 5. The annual Children’s Ministry birthday party for Jesus invites children to make the festivities more fun by wearing “pajama party attire” to go with the Nativity scene theme. Send the kids in some warm jammies (shoes must be worn). Children will enjoy games, crafts, Bible stories and a special birthday treat! Contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor for more information: (765) 642-2000.
Opportunities to Serve
To find a place to volunteer contact Marti Freeman at the Church Office or mfreeman@madisonparkchurch.org.
Adult Ministries:
Decorate for Christmas: Saturday, November 29 at 9:00am in The Commons. Everyone is invited to participate in decorating MPC for the Christmas Holiday. Contact: Brenda Nighbert (765) 208-5910.
Stephen Ministry: Madison Park Stephen Ministry is YOUR ministry. You play an important part in our Stephen Ministry. Here’s what you can do: PRAY for God to bring hope and help to hurting people through our Stephen Ministry. Accept Care during your time of need. God does not want us to bear our burdens alone. Tell a friend, neighbor, coworker or relative who is hurting about Stephen Ministry. Prayerfully consider becoming a Stephen Minister if you are a good listener and compassionate. The next 50 hours of training begins on January 13. For more information, contact Pastoral Care.
Dove Harbor Toles Flowers Cards: Toles Flowers is selling “Floral Cards” benefiting Dove Harbor. The card, costing just $35, is good for a free small floral arrangement each month for one year - a great gift idea! Dove Harbor will receive $20 from each card sold. Cards are available at the Information Center, Dove Harbor and Toles Flowers (9627 Nichol Avenue in Anderson). Hurry…the quantity is limited! Contact: Johnna Barnard (765) 642-1853.
Dove Harbor Benefit at Texas Roadhouse: Friday, December 12 from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Come enjoy watching the MPC staff and special guests host and serve you! Bring family, friends and office staff groups. All tips from the day will be donated to Dove Harbor. Contact: Johnna Barnard at (765) 642-1853.
Holiday Giving Opportunities
Operation Love Christmas Project: Operation Love’s goal is to provide food boxes, along with a certificate to purchase meat, to 200 local families in need. MPC-goers will make this possible by giving money for the meat certificate, designated on your check or giving envelope for Operation Love. Other ways to help on this project is by donating food, toiletries, toys, paper products, books, games, canned food, socks. Items can be brought to the Information Center marked for Operation Love. For more information on how you can help with the baskets contact Operation Love at (765) 644-2121.
ANGEL TREE CHRISTMAS: Angel Tree helps connect parents in prison with their children through the delivery of Christmas gifts. Over 300 children in Madison County have parents in prison. Madison Park Church would like to provide gifts to at least 51 children (28 families). This is a wonderful opportunity for families, individuals and small groups to minister to those in prison and their families. Stop by the sign-up table in The Commons on November 16 and 23 or contact Trish Thomas at (765) 649-0850 or Myrna Knupp at (765) 683-9496 for further information.
GIFTS FOR INDIA: The India Gospel League, MPC’s longtime partner in India, offers a gift catalog filled with giving opportunities ranging from $5 to $75,000. Available options include gifts for: evangelism and church planting, discipleship, children’s ministries, adult education and training, medical ministries, rural development and skills training, animals, and Adopt-a-village. All gifts are fully tax-deductible. Visit www.iglworld.org.
GIFTS FOR HAITI: Mission Haiti’s giving catalog contains 40 gifts of hope for a hurting world. Opportunities ranging from $4 to $75,000 providing milk, hot food, vocational training, livestock, and building mission hospitals and church buildings. All gifts are fully tax-deductible. For a complete catalog listing visit www.missionhaitimidwest.org
SUPPORT THE TROOPS: The Madison Park Troop Support Team is registering troops and families to receive letters, cards, and packages. Donated items or funds may be dropped at the table in The Commons on the first Sunday of each month. To volunteer or for more information contact: Susie Davis at (765) 649-5848 or jsdavis60@comsast.net.
3rd ANNUAL BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT MPC: Saturday, December 6, 8:30am-11:30am in The Commons. Hosted by Highland High School choral students and MPC Board of Outreach and Missions. The event will include a pancake and sausage breakfast, making a holiday craft, face-painting, story-time, entertainment, and having a picture taken with special guest, Santa, to take home in a holiday frame. Choir Students will be caroling and leading Christmas sing-a-longs. The choral groups are partnering with MPC Board of Outreach and Missions to promote the sponsorship of under-privileged children, and are working with local agencies and organizations to identify eligible recipients. Business and individual contributions and sponsorships are needed to make this possible. $25.00 family discount packages are offered for up to 5 people, and a parent/child inclusive package is $15.00. Additional child packages for the same picture, breakfast, or extra pictures may be purchased for $5.00. Registration for attending or sponsoring the event will be available before and after Sunday services on November 30 in The Commons, or you may contact Rhonda Cantrell at (765) 425-7638 or Laudron5@aol.com.
MADISON PARK COOK BOOK: A great holiday, wedding, birthday or other special event gift, containing favorite, easy-to-prepare recipes, is available at the table in The Commons. Books are also available at Moneyhun’s Fine Gifts, and Seasons of the Heart. All proceeds benefit MPC ministries.
Family News
You’re invited:
To a come and go baby shower for Nicki and Peter Lyon on Sunday, December 7 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm in the Hospitality Room. Hosted by friends of the couple. Contact: Carol Mitchell (765) 642-2000.
Congratulations To:
- Jay and Patty Hinkelman, welcomed a son, Colin Zachary on November 16.
In Sympathy With:
- JoAnn Gates and family at the loss of her mother, Anie Ruth Sparks on November 5
- Anna Pugsley and family at the loss of her mother, Beatrice Dixon on November 8
- Rachel Elliot, Stephanie Cochran and families at the loss of their mother and sister, Paula Elliot on November 17
- Nitta Stephenson and family at the loss of hermother, Patricia Hopkins on November 18
Rejoicing In Baptism With:
- Lauren Logan, baptized on November 9
- Nancy Blake, baptized on November 16
Celebrating The Dedication of:
- Micaela Jean Cress, daughter of Josh and Tami, dedicated on November 9
- Kaleb Brennen Webb, son of Joe and Kristi, dedicated on November 9
- Jonathan Alexander Louis Wilkerson, son of Jesse and Jamie, dedicated on November 16
- Kadeesh Jon Bridgeman, son of Chester and Patsy, dedicated on November 23
News You Can Use
MPC Facilities Closed for Thanksgiving: The Madison Park Church Office and facilities will close on Wednesday, November 26 at 12:30pm. The Madison Park Worship site on Providence Drive will reopen on Saturday, November 29 at 8:00am. The Church Offices will reopen on Monday, December 1 at 8:30am. If you have an emergency during this time, please call (765) 642-2000 and the pastor on call will be notified.
Wednesday Services Suspended: All regular services will be suspended on Wednesday, November 26 due to the Thanksgiving holiday.
Flu Shots at MPC: Flu shots will be available at Madison Park Church on Wednesday, December 3 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Cost is $20 cash or check. Insurance is not accepted. Everyone should consider getting an injection. A flu shot will increase your body’s immunity to the flu by 20-95%. Contact: Lynn Simpson, MPC Health Ministry Coordinator at (765) 623-0088.
Poinsettia Memorials and Honoraria: Offer a tribute to friends or loved ones this season by purchasing poinsettias in their honor or memory. These beautiful plants are available for a gift of $20 each. Order poinsettias at the Church Office or Information center by December 7. Contact: Mary Smith at the Church Office.
Swing into Christmas Concert: MPC-goers invite you to kick off the holiday season at the “Swing into Christmas” concert with Scott Lutterman and The Heartland Big Band on Saturday, November 29 at 7pm in the Paramount Theatre; part of the Festival of Trees. Join Carl Erskine, Jill O’Malia, Sherri Contos, Steve Williamson, Doug Irving, Mel Denniston, Jim Rogers, Tim Rogers and “Santa.” Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students; available at the Paramount and at all Madison County Key Bank locations. Contact: Paramount Theatre Centre at (765) 642-1234 or (800) 523-4658 or visit www.AndersonParamount.org.
Lighthouse Café: Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and mini-salad bar in The Commons. Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 6:30pm, just before our evening programs. Cost: Adults-$5, Children and college Students (with ID)-$3 (maximum of $20 per family).
- November 26 - Closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday
- December 3 - Chicken & Noodles / Kids Option: Chicken & Noodles
- December 10 - Italian Spaghetti / Kid’s Option: Spaghetti
- December 17 - Christmas Ham / Kid’s Option: Pizza
- December 24 - Closed for the Christmas Holiday
- December 31 - Closed for the New Year’s Holiday
Employment Opportunities
Part-time Administrative Assistant
Supports the Director of Adult Discipleship and Education. Applicant must enjoy working with people and in a fast-paced working environment, be proficient with Microsoft Word, and familiar with operating office equipment. Please submit your resume to: Rob Spaulding, Madison Park Church, P.O. Box 2479, Anderson, IN 46018.
Part-time Administrative Assistant
Supports the Director of Front Door Ministries. Applicant must enjoy working with people, be proficient with Microsoft Word, familiar with operating office equipment and multi-tasking. Please submit your resume to: Rob Spaulding, Madison Park Church, P.O. Box 2479, Anderson, IN 46018.
