Filed under: -- Outreach and Missions, -- Volunteer Ministry, Feature Articles, Volunteer Ministry, Weekly News and Events
Salt and Light – In Our Community
Jesus calls us to be “salt and light,” change agents, which alter the taste and appearance of everything they touch. We also are called to live in community, sharing together the joys, sorrows, triumphs, struggles, and responsibilities of His work – and our lives – in this world.
Salt must be rubbed in by hand and come in direct contact to preserve for future good and give flavor. Salt is also used as a fertilizer and used to promote the growth of that which is good. Salt makes people thirsty – through us God will generate a thirst for the living God as we spread it into our community.
Being light is not an option – it is part of being like Christ. Living in a way pleasing to God is shining light into our workplace, our school , and our community. As Christians we are to reflect the light of Jesus to the world.
Spreading salt and light by serving our local community intangible ways which can be fun and rewarding. On Wednesday, July 22, MPC-goers of all ages are invited to work on simple projects throughout Anderson. Others will be able to serve the community without leaving The Commons! No matter your age or abilities, everyone can serve in these meaningful and beneficial ways:
- The Christian Center
- Dove Harbor
- Letters to inmates
- Package medications and vitamins for Honduras
- Stuffing bears for premature babies at Riley Hospital
- Weeding and trash clean up around MPC
- Wash and wax church shuttles
- Children’s area clean up
- Inventory for T.A.P.P. (providing hope for AIDS victims in Uganda)
- Letters of encouragement to Nursing Home residents
Want to spread salt and light with other MPC-goers? Contact: Keith Stork, Outreach and Missions Pastor.
Join the Won by One initiative
Identify three people whom you will commit to pray for and invite to MPC this year. Pick up a Won by One card at the Information Center, fill it out and post it on your refrigerator or keep in a place that you will see often, Pray for God to use you to expand the Kingdom.
Filed under: Feature Articles
God at Work: in the shurbs and flowers
“The Lord grabbed my heart and it’s a great journey!” God has really been at work in the life of Rick Sprague since he accepted Jesus his first Sunday at church – on the first Sunday in the new Madison Park Church facilities and where he was later baptized. He says, “I’m new at this but have gotten real involved in the Men’s Fraternity and attend the Monday night Men’s Bible Study trying to grow and learn all I can.”
Rick works at the “oldest profession recorded – gardening!” He is presently a Landscape Manager at Ball State University overseeing many of the beautiful gardens on the campus. He, along with his wife Bev, has been in the landscape/garden center profession for years. “Planting, watering, pulling weeds – that’s not a chore, it’s something I love to do. I’d love to be a great singer or pray like others – but I do so in my mind as I tend the gardens!”
Rick is a member of the MPC Landscape Committee which takes seriously the responsibility of making the grounds and parking lots attractive and a good first impression to all who drive onto the MPC campus. Rick took on the added responsibility of planting the flower beds at MPC, taking special care to get them ready for the North American Convention and the visitors from around the world. One lady at the convention complimented his “Flower Ministry”—-and Rick says his joy for working in the soil took on “a new meaning.”
Rick has been on a mission trip to India where his heart was “stolen” for India missions. He and Bev hosted an international guest couple from India for NAC. Rick has been training up and down the steps of the BSU Arena (the highest mountain he could find around here) carrying a 47 pound backpack, in preparation for his August climb up Mt Rainier followed the next week by a climb up Mt Adams with a group from MPC Men’s Fraternity.
Rick and Bev have three grown children and three grandchildren. Rick is a great example of how a life can be changed for the good by Jesus – even when the guy is in his fifties and has no adult history with God. Bev, too, is a smiling witness to the changes and blessings in their lives. God, continues to be, at Work.
Filed under: Weekly News and Events
News and Events – July 22, 2009
Summertime Wednesdays
Wednesdays at 6:30pm in The Commons
Come enjoy a variety of exciting and challenging programs scheduled for the weeks ahead:
- July 22 – Salt & Light: Community Service
Serving the community in tangible ways can be fun and rewarding. MPC-goers of all ages are invited to work on simple projects throughout Anderson; at Dove Harbor, the Christian Center, Operation Love, and on the MPC church property. Others will be able to serve the community without leaving The Commons! No matter your age or abilities, everyone can serve in a meaningful and beneficial way. - July 29 – All-Church Picnic: 5:00-7:45pm at MPC, west side (back) of church building. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, insect repellent, baseball mitt, and enjoy a delicious picnic served by Lighthouse Café from 5:00 – 7:00pm. Enjoy participating in games on the lawn or watching from your lawn chair, a special musical group and great fellowship. Bring friends, neighbors and family! In case of inclement weather festivities will be held in The Commons and Crossroads auditorium. Volunteers are needed to assist with games. Contact: Shelly Stottlemyer, Director of Front Door Ministries.
- August 5 & 12: Regular Wednesday evening schedule including Lighthouse Café will be suspended in preparation for the Fall Launch
- August 19: Fall Launch
Thinkety, Think, Think
Love to brainstorm new ideas? Help us name a new worship service!
Innovative thinkers are needed to help submit possible names for a New Worship Service set to launch at Madison Park Church in late August.
The new service, open to people of all ages, will be held Sunday mornings in Crossroads Auditorium at 10:45am and will provide an intimate, distinctly different worship experience along with biblical teaching from Pastor Jim Lyon, via live video feed from the Main Auditorium. The new worship experience is designed to provide a fresh growing edge to help reach our community and beyond.
Got several ideas? Send them on! Just make sure you submit all of your ideas before 12:00pm (Noon) on Monday, July 27 at www.MadisonParkChurch.org.
Watch Sermons Online: Madison Park Church of God is now video casting Sunday sermons on Vimeo. View, share, and subscribe to MPC videos at the Vimeo website: www.vimeo.com/channels/madisonparkchurch. MPC media capabilities are being upgraded – soon videos will be accessible directly from the church website.
Explore Madison Park - Exciting destinations await Wednesday, August 19 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room. Explore Madison Park 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. Find details or sign-up in the Hospitality Room or online at MadisonParkChurch.org.
A Look Ahead:
- Indiana Church of God State Conventions
- Northern Indiana Campmeeting: July 26-29 at Yellow Creek Lake Camp, Claypool, Indiana.
- Central Indiana Campmeeting: July 26-August 2 at Central Indiana Campground, Mooresville, Indiana.
- Dan’s Fish and Chicken Fry: Saturday, August 29, 4:00-7:00pm. Proceeds will benefit Dove Harbor.
- Miriam Project 5K Run/Walk & 10K Run: Saturday, September 12, 8:30am. Pre-Registration of $15 by August 28 guarantees a T-shirt. For more information contact Brooke Mathis at (765) 640-1580.
- 24 Hours to Ignite Your Passion, Renew Your Vision, Energize Your Church! – October 20-21 at Madison Park Church, sponsored by Church Builders Plus. Guest Leaders Will Mancini, Gabe Lyons, Ron Fowler and Michael Card.
- Best Practices for Pastoral and Congregational Financial Health Conference. November 6-7 at Madison Park Church. Sponsored by Indiana Ministries, in conjunction with the Board of Pensions, Anderson University Falls School of Business and School of Theology.
Ministry Happenings
Adult Ministries:
For more information contact, Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- Grow U 2009-2010: Beginning on Wednesday, August 19 and Sunday August 23. New classes will be offered along with continued learning and growing opportunities.
- Financial Peace University: Join thousands of people who have benefited from the 14-week course taught by author and radio personality Dave Ramsey. Classes will be offered on Wednesdays beginning August 19 and on Sundays beginning August 23. Register online at MadisnParkChurch.org or contact Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- Eight Habits of a Successful Marriage: Four consecutive Thursday nights beginning August 6 at 6:00pm at MPC. For those who want to strengthen or give new life to their marriage; are getting married; been married a long time and want to grow even closer or those struggling in marriage and need a tune-up. Pastor Keith Stork and Dr. Leroy Quashie leaders. Contact Keith Stork, Outreach and Missions Pastor, at the Church Office.
- New Small Group for Men: God wants men to be leaders in their homes. Whether you are a single father through divorce, separation, or otherwise, come join a group that will be a source of encouragement and accountability as you strive to be the best father to your children. Interest Meeting on August 26, 6:00pm. Contact: Rudy Pyle at (765) 278-9366.
- Sign-up and Stay Connected! Join the Threads Weekly Email List: To sign-up for the weekly Threads email visit our website at www.MadisonParkChurch.org.
- Well Women: Fridays, 10:00am – Noon. A ministry for women who feel called to model a life of balance, self-care, grace and growth. Each session will include forty-five minutes of light exercise and one hour of guided Bible Study. Kimberly Majeski, leader.
- RefresHer: The book for the 2009-2010 RefresHer Bible Study is now available. The Beth Moore study of Esther: It’s Tough Being A Woman is available at the Information Center ($15 for the guide). The ladies Bible study will run from September through May. Contact: Tami Seulean at (765) 643-9433.
Athletics and Outdoor Ministries
- Open Road Motorcyclists Ride: August 1-3, Mackinac Island Run, Michigan. BUG Ride: Tuesday, July 28 leaving at 7:00pm from MPC parking lot to Maucky’s in Frankton. Click here for a complete listing of 2009 Open Road rides.
- MPC Bicycling Ministry: Tuesdays at 6:00pm (weather permitting) at the MPC parking lot. Bicyclists of all ages are invited to meet each Tuesday through October and ride from 6:00pm until dark. All skill levels and paces are welcome; no bicyclist will be left behind. Contact: Pete Spoo at (765) 642-8846.
Senior Ministries
- J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) Trip: Thursday, August 13. A chartered bus will leave MPC at 8:00am to tour the Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio (or the optional destination of Fairfield Mall.) Cost: $15 for the bus plus meal money Admission is Free. For reservations contact Karen Zierer at (765) 643-5637.
- J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) Trip: Thursday, October 29. All senior adults are invited to Bearcreek Farms for the Fall Gospel Concert. $25 includes the chartered bus, concert ticket and meal. Spots are limited. For reservations contact Karen Zierer at (765) 643-5637.
Singles Ministries
For more information, contact Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- Singles Walk: Saturdays, 9:00am at Shadyside Park. All singles are invited to walk with the Single Among Friends Small Group every Saturday. Meet in the Shadyside parking lot off Cross Street. Contact: Nancy Bitner (765) 649-01928.
- Singles Hangout Night: Saturday, August 15, 7:00-9:00pm in the Hospitality Room. All singles are invited to a night of fun, games and fellowship. Bring a snack and game to share.
Student Ministries
For more information, contact Gretchen Olson, Junior High Ministries Pastor.
Combined Junior High and Senior High Ministries:
- Wednesdays in Crossroads Auditorium: 6:30-7:45pm – Activities to intentionally build community.
- July 22 – Salt & Light: Community Service
- July 29 – All Church Picnic
- Sunday Mornings at Crossroads Auditorium: 9:00-10:15am – Deeper learning experiences in God’s Word.
Children’s Ministries
For more information, contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.
- Wonderful Wednesday Hallelujah Hoopla!
- July 22 – Family Service Project
- July 29 – All Church Picnic
Opportunities to Serve
To find a place to volunteer, contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
- Children’s Ministries Needs Creative People: A Creative Arts team is needed to help create monthly themed environments for our elementary program. For more information contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.
Good To Know
- Night Lights Recommended Reading: Each week during the Night Lights-Illuminations from the Persecuted Church sermon series, Pastor Jim Lyon shared inspiring true stories and firsthand accounts from troubled parts of the world; places where the light of Christ must shine in deep darkness. The following books offer fascinating and sobering glimpses of those dark places, and may enhance your understanding of the context and history of the world far beyond your front door. Each of the books recommended are secular and can be at times coarse and earthy. Even so, they illuminate the truth about the personalities and events that have shaped contemporary events.
- Indian Summer: The secret History of the End of an Empire by Alex Von Tunzelmann
- Freedom at Midnight by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins
- Mwo: The Unknown Story by Jung Chang and Jon Hallida
- Empire: The Rise and Demise of the British World Order and the Lessons for Global Power by Naill Ferguson
For a synopsis of each book go to the MPC website.
- Library Survey and Giveaway: A great response to the MPC Library Survey was very informative in helping the library move into the future and into the digital era. All survey respondents names were placed in the drawing for the library prize package, which includes copies of: Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Broken on the Back Row by Sandi Patty, Facing the Giants DVD Movie, and Unveiled by Francine Rivers. The winner of the Library Survey Prize Package is, David Neidert. Enjoy the reading David! Be sure to check out the wide variety of books and videos that will help you be transformed by renewing your mind!Be sure to check out the wide variety of books and videos available at the Madison Park Church library that will help you be transformed by renewing your mind.The MPC library is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am until 4:30pm at the Cross Street site.
- Madison Park Commemorative Walkway: Create a lasting memorial with the Madison Park Commemorative Walkway. Brick pavers may be purchased and engraved with a family name, an individual’s name (“In Honor Of” or “In Memory Of”) or a favorite scripture. Orders may be placed at the church office or on the MPC website. Proceeds of the walkway go to the Building Fund. Download the Order Form. For more information contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
- Online Giving: Financial contributions to MPC’s general fund may now be given online. Visit MadisonParkChurch.org and click on the Give tab in the navigation bar. MasterCard, Visa, Discover and electronic checks are accepted. Contact: Rob Spaulding, Business Administrator.
News You Can Use
- Anderson University Alumni and Friends Special Events:
- Ice Cream & Movie in the Park: Friday, July 24, 8:00pm at Shady Side Park Main shelter house on Broadway. The whole family will enjoy a great evening outdoors with free ice cream and the movie “Monsters vs. Aliens.”
- AU Alumni Night at Symphony on the Prairie Featuring Michael Cavanaugh and the music of Billy Joel: Saturday, July 25. Gates open at 6:00pm, concert at 8:00pm at Conner Prairie. Cost: $15 per person, tickets are limited.
- To register for these events contact the Alumni Office at (765) 641-4100, alumni@anderson.edu or www.anderson.edu/alumni .
- Camp Hope: August 7-8. A camp designed for children ages five – seventeen who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The two day camp will help children work through grief with activities which include expressive crafts, hilarious games and swimming. For more information or to register contact St. Johns Health System at (765) 646-8179.
- New Life Weekend with Steve Arterburn: July 24-26 in Columbus, Ohio. An intensive weekend workshop that provides an opportunity experience God’s healing grace, emotionally, spiritually and physically. For more information contact Jason Estopinal at (949) 494-8383 ext. 737.
Family News
To submit a threads announcement a birth or death, please contact Pastoral Care.
Congratulations to:
- Bill and Carolyn Hall, who welcomed a great-grandson, Aiden James on June 26. Proud parents are Kristin and Sean.
- Carrie and Danny Denniston, who welcomed twin daughters, Noel Christine and Natalie Paige on July 14. Proud grandparents are Dave and Jennie Denniston and John Walters; proud great-grandparents are Jim and LaVerne Walters.
In Sympathy with:
- Jack Cope and family at the loss of his father, Jack on July 2.
- Keith Stork and family at the loss of his step-father, Glenn Deisler on July 4.
- Trudy Perkins, Eric Perkins, Gena Starks and families at the loss of her husband and their father, Bill on July 10.
- Dave and Nancy Bailey and family at the loss of their son, Chad on July 11.
- Scott and Myrna Rambis and family at the loss of his uncle and her brother-in-law, Joe Rambis on July 12.
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-$6, Children and college Students (with ID)-$4 (maximum of $22 per family).
- July 22 – Pulled Pork Barbecue Sandwiches // Kids Option: Pizza
- July 29 – Hamburgers and Homemade Potato Salad // Kids Option: Hot Dogs
- August 5 & 12 – Suspended until the August 19 Fall Launch
- August 19 – Chicken and Noodles // Kids Option: Chicken and Noodles
- August 26 – Spaghetti // Kids Option: Spaghetti
