Threads

Weekly News and Events - December 29, 2008

bfauntleroy — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 04:05:46 +0000

NEWS AND EVENTS - December 29, 2008

This Week at MPC

Breaking News: Advent Conspiracy
Current Sermon Series: Sunday at 9:00am and 10:45am, Main Auditorium.
Headlines from Matthew 1-2: Rediscovering the astonishing news of the first Christmas story.

MPC Facilities Closed for New Years:

Worship Site: Closed January 1 and reopen January 2 at 8:30am.
Church Office: Closed on January 1 and reopen January 2 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 Wednesday services will be suspended on December 31.

Support the Troops: The Madison Park Troop Support Team collected and sent 35 packages to the troops for Christmas. Register troops, families or volunteer at the Madison Park Troop Support Team display in The Commons on Sunday, January 4. Items, including phone calling cards or cash to cover shipping costs, may be donated at the table. Contact: Susie Davis at (765) 649-5848 or jsdavis60@comcast.net.

A Look Ahead

January 7, 2009 - Wednesday Grow U Winter/Spring Semester Begins.
Sunday, January 11 - “The Goof Principle” with Jay Harvey
9:00 and 10:45, Main Auditorium
January 17- Single Game Night
January 25 - Madison Park Church Annual Business Meeting: 6:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium.
February 15 - It’s Worth the Wait: Conference for Junior and Senior High Students; a special Parent Track runs concurrently.

Stephen Ministry: Have you been considering becoming a Stephen Minister? If you have felt a nudge that God would have you step up to the role of Care Giver come learn more about this vital ministry. A Stephen Minister is available on Sundays, 10:30-11:00am in the Hospitality Room with applications and to answer questions. The next 50 hours of training begins on January 13. For more information, contact Pastoral Care.

Good To Know

Convergence Breaks for the Holidays: The college and young adult worship service, Convergence, is on break for holidays. The service will reconvene on January 18. Questions? Contact Jeff Matas, Senior Associate Pastor at the Church Office.

End of Year Giving: Thank you for your faithfulness in giving of your resources to the ministries of Madison Park Church of God. Please remember to receive 2008 giving credit for financial gifts, all gifts have to be received in the Church Office by closing at 4:30pm on December 31, 2008. If you are mailing contributions, items must be postmarked on or before December 31, 2008, to receive 2008 giving credit for the contribution. Questions? Contact Calvin Pleninger at the Church Office.

New 2009 giving envelopes will be available in The Commons on Sunday, December 28, 2008. If you do not currently receive giving envelopes, you may request them online. For more information, contact Calvin Pleninger at the Church Office.

Update F1 Forms for 2009: If you are in charge of a regular event that runs from January to December and it will continue next year, please be sure to submit a new F1 Event Form to the Church Office. F1 forms are available at the Information Center and the Church Office. Contact Kelli Bays at the Church Office.

More MPC News

Get Connected at MPC

Stop by the Hospitality Room before or after our Sunday worship services to learn more about how you can get connected at Madison Park Church. It’s an informal, come-and-go, gathering.

Join the Journey provides the essential information you need to know before calling Madison Park Church your church home. Learn more and sign-up for the next class.Small Groups at Madison Park Church are designed to nurture great friendships that last a lifetime, while fostering personal, spiritual growth and discovering ways to reach out beyond ourselves to serve our community and world. Learn more.

Pastor’s Column - Questions from the Text(s)

bfauntleroy — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:15:03 +0000

Questions from the Text(s)

Jim Lyon, Senior Pastor

There is just something about the Christmas story that captures our hearts. Maybe it’s the drama of the young couple reduced to lodging in a stable, the contrast of a Heavenly King born in a barn, the wonder of angels startling the peasant shepherds in the dark of night, the mystery of the magi traveling to bow low before the Mystery of the Ages. There are good guys (like the shepherds and Wise Men) and bad guys (like the despicable Herod). There are palm trees and the soft light of oil lamps. There are stars and there is the Star. And, there is the Child, “wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” For unto us is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord .

It’s hard to imagine a more perfectly crafted narrative. With extraordinary brevity (especially given the magnitude of the moment), the Scriptures deliver a glimpse of history that never ceases to amaze and engage. We are drawn to its warmth, hope, and promise every year. It never grows tiresome, it never bores. It seems always fresh, even though obviously familiar. It’s supernatural. It’s the kind of story—it’s the kind of history—that only God could write.

Still, for all we know about Christmas, sometimes when we stop and think about it, we have questions. Who owned the stable, for instance? Who was that innkeeper? How many magi came from the east, anyway? And where, exactly, is “the east?” How old was Joseph? Why did God choose Mary? Is it possible that Mary really was only a teenager when Jesus was born?

Why does Matthew tell us that Joseph didn’t have sex with Mary until after Jesus was born? Did Jesus have any friends His age growing up, if Herod killed all the boys who were his age in Bethlehem? In what year was Jesus really born? In 4 BC? Or was it 6 BC? Why not in the year 0, if that’s when we begin counting years (like this one, 2008)? Do “gold, frankincense, and myrrh” have any theological meaning?

If it was God’s plan for Jesus to be born in Bethlehem, does God also plan all of the bad stuff? How did Mary and Joseph know they understood what God wanted? How can I know what He wants from me?

These are the kind of questions that have been texted to me during the Sunday sermons in December. As many of you know, we’ve activated a new interactive ministry on Sunday mornings, in which you can text me questions from your cell phone, as I’m preaching. As I have been walking through Matthew’s record of the Christmas story, you’ve been coming up with great questions; every question has merit (even if your neighbor thinks they already know the answer). I’ve only been able to answer three or four at the end of each service, but there are many more being received. I’m very excited about what has happened so far and the way in which you are participating .

Life is filled with questions. The more I know about God, the more questions I have. I believe that wisdom is knowing what the right questions are, not necessarily knowing what the answers are.

Finding answers is important, though. And with our new texting ministry—as with so many other ministries at Madison Park—we encourage you to ask questions. When you have a question, bring your questions to church. Church should be the first place—not the last one–that comes to mind when inquiring minds want to know.

There are some things about which I have no questions, however. For instance, the love of this congregation. I have no questions about it because I have lived in its warm embrace for so long I know, absolutely, it is deep and wide, gracious and kind. I have watched this congregation love people in far places and love struggling souls right here at home, too. I have experienced this congregation’s love for me and my family.

Whatever questions I may have this Christmas, I want you to know I have no doubts about this church’s love. And, because I am so certain of your love for God and each other and the world beyond, I never ask the question, “Isn’t there a better place to serve than this?” The answer is clear: no way. It is a sacred privilege to serve at the Madison Park Church, a privilege never taken for granted and for which I daily thank God.

On behalf of my family—and the whole staff team—please accept our thanks and appreciation for all the ways you have loved us in 2008 (and over the years before, too!)—for loving without question. Merry Christmas to my dear church family. And, yes, keep those loving questions coming in. Just text: 95494 ask mpc on Sunday mornings.

Weekly News and Events - December 24, 2008

administrator — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:06:45 +0000

NEWS AND EVENTS - December 24, 2008

This Week at MPC

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. E-vite a friend.

Breaking News: Advent Conspiracy
Current Sermon Series: Sundays at 9:00am and 10:45am, Main Auditorium
Headlines from Matthew 1-2: Rediscovering the astonishing news of the first Christmas story.

A Look Ahead:

MPC Grow U
Winter/Spring Semester begins in January, Madison Park Church
New programs and classes for adults, designed to keep you learning and growing in your faith! A wide selection of Grow U electives will be offered at Madison Park Church on Sunday mornings beginning January 4 at 9:00am and 10:45am and Wednesday evenings beginning January 7 from 6:30 to 7:45pm. Visit our website for a complete lineup of Grow U electives.

“The Goof Principle” with Jay Harvey
Sunday, January 11, 9:00 and 10:45, Main Auditorium
Guest speaker and MPC-goer, Jay Harvey will share from his book “The Goof Principle, Discovering the Jonah in all of us.” Jay integrates thoughtful humor and deep spiritual truth to convey the love and grace of God for everyone.

It’s Worth The Wait
Sunday, February 15, 5:00 - 8:30pm, Madison Park Church
A dynamic and relevant event for junior and senior high students; a special Parent Track runs concurrently. Learn from the Bible how to attract, date, and prepare for a relationship. Register with MPC for the discounted rate of $20 per person. MPC Group Rate registration is January 4 - February 1. Sign-up in The Commons, at any Student Ministries program or at the Church Office. For more information, contact Student Ministries.

Exciting destinations await!
Wednesday, January 21 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, January 21 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room. Stop by the Hospitality Room or visit our News and Events page to learn more or sign-up.

Ministry Happenings

Adult Ministries:

Financial Peace University: January 11 - April 5 at 9:00am in Room 181. Join thousands of people who have benefited from the 13-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. Visit the News and Events page to learn more and sign up online. For more information 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.

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.

New Singles Small Group Starting January 8: Meets the second and fourth Thursday of every month, 7:00-8:30pm in the Hospitality Room. Join the “Singles Journey: 20 and 30 Somethings Walking with God Together” and explore the book The Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne. For more information contact: Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education at the Church Office.

J.O.Y. Luncheon: Thursday, January 15 at Noon in The Commons. J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth) will meet to celebrate the new year. John Williams will share his story of how God brought them through a difficult time when their home was destroyed by fire. All seniors are invited to this time of food, fellowship and entertainment. Contact: Esther Crnkovich at (765) 649-3323.

Singles Hang Out Night: Saturday, January 17 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 Sunday 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.

Student Ministries:
For more information contact Student Ministries at the Church Office.

It’s Worth The Wait Conference: Sunday, February 15, 5:00-8:30pm (doors open at 4:00pm) at Madison Park Church. A dynamic and relevant event for junior and senior high students; a special Parent Track runs concurrently. Learn from the Bible how to attract, date, and prepare for a relationship. Register with MPC for the discounted rate of $20 per person. MPC Group Rate registration is January 4 - February 1. Sign-up in The Commons, at any Student Ministries program or at the Church Office. For more information, contact Student Ministries.

Impact Jr. High Ministry:

Sundays at 9:00am in Crossroads Auditorium
Wednesdays in small groups from 6:30-7:45pm in Room 176

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.
ABS Holiday Schedule: ABS will not meet on December 28, or January 4 resuming regular schedule on January 11.

MERGE Student Ministries Service Project

Dove Harbor Work Projects
Saturday January 10, 9:00-12:00pm
Drop-off and pick-up at Dove Harbor.

Madison County Youth Event

Disco Fever Roller Skate Night at Roller Arena
Sunday, January 18, 6:00-8:00pm
Cost is $3.00 per person. Come dressed in your disco best and join students from all over the county for a night of roller skating fun.

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. January’s theme is “Resourcefulness.” Virtue packs are available in the Children’s Center for $9.00. For more information, contact Pastor Paula Spear at (765) 642-2000.

Dolls Needed: New or gently used baby dolls are needed in the Children’s Center. The Early Childhood “First Look” curriculum focuses on God’s wonder and discovery - objects to touch, wild and wiggly activities to get them moving, crafts and real life situations to which children can relate. For more information, contact Pastor Paula Spear.

Opportunities to Serve

To find a place to volunteer contact Marti Freeman at the Church Office.

Adult Ministries:

Family News

To submit a threads announcement regarding a birth or death, contact Debbie McCafferty in Pastoral Care.

In Sympathy With

Lorraine and Robert Bales and families at the loss of her husband and his father, Frank on December 7.
Rosemary Chamberlain and family at the loss of her sister, Phyllis Carlson on December 12.
Judy Frazier and family at the loss of her father, Walter Laycock on December 12.

Congratulations To

Scott and Stacia Lutterman, who welcomed as son, Brennan Samuel on December 8. Proud big brothers are Aidan and Rylan.
Tom and Connie Evans, who welcomed a grandson, John Richardson, on December 15. Proud parents are Andrew and Cindy.
Jim and Maxine Tanner, who welcomed a granddaughter, Alexis Kate Tanner, on December 13. Proud parents are Nick and Bryanna.

Good to Know

MPC Facilities Closed for Christmas and New Years:

Worship Site: Will on close December 24 at 12:30pm and reopen at 10:15pm for the Christmas Eve Service. Closed on December 25 and 26 and reopen December 27 at 8:30am. Closed January 1 and reopen January 2 at 8:30am

Church Office: Will close on December 24 at 12:30pm and reopen December 29 at 8:30am. Closed on January 1 and reopen January 2 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 Wednesday services will be suspended on December 25 and December 31.

Convergence Breaks for the Christmas Holiday: The college and young adult worship service, Convergence is on break for the holidays. The service will reconvene on January 18. Contact Jeff Matas, Senior Associate Pastor at the Church Office.

End of Year Giving: Thank you for your faithfulness in giving of your resources to the ministries of Madison Park Church of God. Please remember to receive 2008 giving credit for financial gifts, all gifts have to be received in the Church Office by closing at 4:30pm on December 31, 2008. If you are mailing contributions, items must be postmarke d on or before December 31, 2008, to receive 2008 giving credit for the contribution. Questions? Contact Calvin Pleninger at the Church Office.

Kitchen Appliance Needed: A kitchen electric stove is needed for the Cross Street Church Office site. Contact the Church Office.

Madison Park Church Annual Business Meeting: Sunday, January 25, 6:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium. Everyone is welcome; all those who have declared that they are believers and that Madison Park Church is their church home may vote.

Faith and Family Night with the Ice: Saturday, January 17, 7:30pm at Pepsi Coliseum. Join the Indiana Ice for “Faith and Family Night with the Ice” as the Ice battle the Green Bay Gamblers. Special musical guest SONICFLOOD will play a special pre-game concert at 5:45pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, call T. J. Davis or Bryan Moore at (317) 925-4423.

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).

December 24 - Closed for the Christmas Holiday
December 31 - Closed for the New Year’s Holiday
January 7 - Loaded Baked Potato Soup / Kid’s Option: Mini Corn Dogs and Mac & Cheese
January 14 - Teryaki Chicken, Rice and Eggrolls / Kid’s Option: Chicken Fingers with Fries

Weekly News and Events - December 15, 2008

bfauntleroy — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 04:07:40 +0000

Weekly Update - December 15, 2008

This Week at MPC

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 at the Lighthouse Café.
6:30-7:45pm: Come enjoy singing favorite Christmas carols, sharing Christmas memories, and hearing stories of God’s working in the lives of people.

Birthday Party for Jesus
Wednesday, December 17, 6:30 - 7:45pm
Children’s Center
The annual Children’s Ministry birthday party for Jesus invites children, age 2 through grade 5, 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.

Ignite Sr. High Ministry

“White Christmas” Party
Wednesday, December 17, 6:30-7:45pm
Crossroads Auditorium.

Impact Jr. High Ministry

“White Night” Christmas Party
Friday, December 19, 6:30pm - 9:00pm
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, December17.
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.

Breaking News - Advent Conspiracy
Current Sermon Series
Sundays at 9:00am and 10:45am
Main Auditorium
Headlines from Matthew 1-2: Rediscovering the astonishing news of the first Christmas story.

A Look Ahead

January 7, 2009 - Wednesday Grow U Winter/Spring Semester Begins
January 17, 2009 - Single Game Night
February 15, 2009 - It’s Worth the Wait: Conference for Junior and Senior High Students; a special Parent Track runs concurrently.

Good To Know

End of Year Giving: Thank you for your faithfulness in giving of your resources to the ministries of Madison Park Church of God. Please remember to receive 2008 giving credit for financial gifts, all gifts have to be received in the Church Office by closing at 4:30pm on December 31, 2008. If you are mailing contributions, items must be postmarked on or before December 31, 2008, to receive 2008 giving credit for the contribution. Questions? Contact Calvin Pleninger at the Church Office.

New 2009 giving envelopes will be available in The Commons on Sunday, December 28, 2008. If you do not currently receive giving envelopes, you may click here and request them online. For more information contact Calvin Pleninger at (the Church Office.

More MPC News At:

Get Connected at MPC

Stop by the Hospitality Room before or after our Sunday worship services to learn more about how you can get connected at Madison Park Church. It’s an informal, come-and-go, gathering.

Join the Journey provides the essential information you need to know before calling Madison Park Church your church home. Learn more and sign-up for the next class.

Small Groups at Madison Park Church are designed to nurture great friendships that last a lifetime, while fostering personal, spiritual growth and discovering ways to reach out beyond ourselves to serve our community and world. Learn More.

Pastor’s Column - A Celebration Like No Other

bfauntleroy — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 04:15:59 +0000

A Celebration Like No Other

by Jim Lyon, Senior Pastor

The Washington State Capitol building in Olympia is an architectural gem. Perched on a steep bluff, the Capitol has withstood three major earthquakes thanks to the outstanding original design and craftsmanship. It hasn’t been rocked by anything like the attention it’s receiving now, though, due to the placement of an “atheist” plaque for “the winter solstice” in the Capitol rotunda, facing the “holiday tree for children” and a nativity set (sponsored by a local businessman).

The plaque (placed by a national “Freedom from Religion” association based in Wisconsin) reads: “At this season of the Winter Solstice, may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.”

Hmmm. I’d say that last line is designed to push some hot buttons. Merry Christmas, er uh, I mean, Happy Holidays, to you, too. Washington’s Governor, Christine Gregoire, believes that once the nativity-sponsoring businessman sued for and won the right to place a crèche in the rotunda in 2006, the state cannot regulate anything placed there.

Hmmm. How about a Klu Klux Klan display, diminishing people of color? How about an anti-Semitic poster? How about a placard that reads: “Get your blankety- blank-blank Jesus Christ out of my face!”

I’m guessing that the Governor (a professing Catholic) would decide there are some boundaries governing public displays, after all. The question is, what should the boundary be? It’s at this very subjective intersection that the public, the courts, and our elected officials are compelled to meet.

Whatever the outcome of that conversation, one fact remains: Christmas is the ancient celebration of Christ’s birth. It has inspired and blessed at least since 354 AD (so far, the first year in which a written record of the observance on December 25 has been discovered). Christmas may be celebrated worldwide by gazillions who know nothing about Jesus and don’t care. But, it is, at its core, the event that altered the world’s calendar, dividing history into two epochs (before Christ and after Christ), the event that, more than any other, has changed the world. Where would this world be without the first coming of Christ? Without hope, that’s where.

However, Bill O’Reilly and Governor Gregoire and the Freedom from Religion bunch resolve their disputes, you can make a choice today to introduce the Christ of Christmas into your public square. Our 18th annual presentation of A Christmas Carol takes the stage on December 12, 13, and 14. A Christmas Carol still stirs our imagination because it is the testimony of a sad, bitter old soul transformed by the Christ of Christmas… it is a story of redemption, in which repentance, faith, and Christ all converge on Christmas Eve to save. That’s a Christmas tradition worth celebrating and a message worth proclaiming.

And then there’s Christmas Eve at Madison Park: a single, unforgettable, once-in-a-year moment in which we fill the building with song, worship, Communion, a children’s nativity, and candlelight— as each of us raise our candle singing “Silent Night” at midnight, welcoming the Christmas Day and all it represents for Heaven’s cause. Bring some friends. Bring your kids (and grandkids), even in their pajamas.

And pick up some gift ideas in The Commons when you’re at Madison Park on Sundays this month. From the India Gospel League catalog to Angel Tree to Haiti Gift Ideas, you can literally change somebody’s world this Christmas, for Jesus’ sake. If this is slavery, Mr. Freedom from Religion, then chain me up.

If Christmas must be eviscerated to simply mark the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere (“the winter solstice”), well then this world will be a much darker, dreary, and dreadful place. But, if Christmas is the remembering of the brightest Light that has ever shown, the promise of “peace on earth and goodwill toward men,” the coming of “God with us,” our Immanuel, well, then, make this a celebration like no other. To every Grinch we say, “Merry Christmas” and “may God bless us, everyone.”

P.S.: If you’d like to wish Governor Gregoire a “Merry Christmas,” do it sweetly by calling her office in Olympia: (360) 902-4111.

Christmas: By The Numbers

bfauntleroy — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 04:10:39 +0000

Christmas: By The Numbers

MPC volunteers help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes the Christmas season a highlight and much loved time of the year. Not everyone can be named but the numbers are powerful!

550 hours invested in creating the Christmas banners hanging in The Commons and 4 tree skirts. It took:
6 number of workers who hand-crafted the banners: Ev Crandall, Pauline Flowers, Susan Myers, Barb Porter, Donita Rada, and project coordinator, Brenda Nighbert
1,575 yards of fabric
25 spools of thread
2 number of men it took to creatively design hardware and bravely hang the banners high in The Commons! Dwaine Jackson and David Browning
75 cast members in A Christmas Carol
16 technical and set crew in A Christmas Carol
280 musicians and worship assistants serving in Worship Arts during Advent services
75 poinsettias decorating MPC facilities (Plants are still available for purchase in honor or memory - call Church Office)
304 volunteers who serve in Front Door Ministries to greet worshipers each week

Find your place of service at MPC and discover the benefits of fellowship, sharing times of food and laughter and new friendships! Contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator at (765) 642-2000 or email at mfreeman@madisonparkchurch.org.

Weekly News and Events - December 10, 2008

bfauntleroy — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 04:05:34 +0000

NEWS AND EVENTS - December 10, 2008

Highlights

Breaking News - Advent Conspiracy

Pastor’s Current Sermon Series: November 30 - January 4
Sundays at 9:00am and 10:45am
Headlines from Matthew 1-2: Rediscovering the astonishing news of the first Christmas story.

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.

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.
Evite a friend.

Christmas Dinner with Carols and Sharing

Wednesday, December 17 at 11:00pm
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.

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.

A Look Ahead:

January 14, 2009 - Wednesday Grow U Winter/Spring Semester Begins
January 17, 2009 - Single Game Night
February 15, 2009 - It’s Worth the Wait: Conference for Junior and Senior High Students

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

Thank you for your faithfulness in giving of your resources to the ministries of Madison Park Church of God. As the year draws to a close, please note to receive 2008 giving credit for financial gifts, all gifts have to be received in the Church Office by closing at 4:30pm on December 31, 2008. If you are mailing contributions, letters must be postmarked on or before December 31, 2008, to receive 2008 giving credit for the contribution. If you have questions, contact Calvin Pleninger at (765) 642-2000.

New 2009 giving envelopes will be available in The Commons on Sunday, December 28, 2008. If you do not currently receive giving envelopes, you may click here and request them online. For more information contact Calvin Pleninger at (765) 642-2000.

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:

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: January 11 - April 5 at 9:00am in Room 181. Join thousands of people who have benefited from the 13-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. Click here to register online. For more information contact: Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education at the Church Office.

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.

Convergence Breaks for the Christmas Holiday: The college and young adult worship service, Convergence, will break for the Christmas Holidays beginning December 21 and reconvene on January 18. Contact Jeff Matas, Senior Associate Pastor at the Church Office.

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 at (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.
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

“White Night “ 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).

“White 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.

Merge Student Ministries Service Project: Saturday, December 13 9:00am at MPC. Christmas cookies and cards will be made then delivered to shut-ins and nursing home residents. Parents are invited (welcome) to join the kids in this project. 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:

Stephen Ministry: Have you been considering becoming a Stephen Minister? If you have felt a nudge that God would have you step up to the role of Care Giver, we would love to meet with you. A Stephen Minister is available on Sundays from 10:30 to 11:00am in the Hospitality Room with applications and to answer questions. The next 50 hours of training begins on January 13. For more information, contact Pastoral Care.

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

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.

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.

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

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

In Sympathy With:

Frank Records and family at the loss of his mother, Tommie on November 23.

Rejoicing In Baptism With:

Reginald (Rex) and Nancy Greer, baptized on November 30.

Celebrating The Dedication Of:

Treyson Carroll Dole, son of Doug and Erin, dedicated on November 30.

News You Can Use

Holy Grounds Gift Baskets: Looking for a unique Christmas gift that sends blessings around the world? Purchase a gift basket from Holy Grounds; available through December 21. One gift basket includes Madison Park Blend Coffee, a coffee mug, and three Holy Grounds Gift Certificates. Another basket contains the above listed plus an MP Cookbook and Lighthouse Café coupon. Gift wrapped in cellophane and ribbon, these gift baskets make
great gifts. All proceeds go to missions.

MPC Facilities Closed for Christmas and New Years:

Worship Site:

Will on close December 24 at 12:30pm, and reopen at 10:15pm for the Christmas Eve Service
Closed on December 25 and 26 and reopen December 27 at 8:30am
Closed January 1 and reopen January 2 at 8:30am

Madison Park Church Office:

Will close on December 24 at 12:30pm and reopen December 29 at 8:30am
Closed on January 1 and reopen Friday, January 2 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 Wednesday services will be suspended on December 25 and December 31.

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.

Threads Weekly Update- December 1, 2008

bfauntleroy — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 04:10:20 +0000

This Just In…

Winter Items Needed: The Christian Center, a ministry to men, is in need of men’s winter jackets and blankets. Delivery can be made to the Christian Center at 625 Main Street in Anderson. For more information call Trudy at (765) 378-7523.

Madison Park Annual Auction/Rummage/Bake Sale: Saturday, May 16, 2009. As you put away your Christmas decorations, clean out closets, replace old with new; remember to save items for the MPC Auction.

This Week at MPC

Here’s What’s Cookin’ at The Lighthouse Café - December 3
Chicken & Noodles, Kids Option: Chicken & Noodles

Flu Shots at MPC
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%.

Pastor’s Press Conference
Tomorrow Night! 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 attempt s, 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!

A Look Ahead

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.

Pastors Column - Fortitude - Light and Hope

bfauntleroy — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 04:20:51 +0000

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?

The answer? Cross the vast Atlantic on the Mayflower, of course, and settle in America. They were not the first to do so—and certainly not the last. Few assumed greater risks to pursue their dream, though. Sailing from Britain in September and landing near Cape Cod on the following November 21, the Pilgrims were confined “below decks,” by the crew, stricken with scurvy and who knows what else for months. Wading ashore in that bleak, damp November, weakened, hungry, and rancid from so many months in closed quarters, the Pilgrims had to wonder, “What have we done?” as they considered carving a new home in the dark, overpowering wilderness.

The miracle of the colony’s survival, the drama of the small party’s ambition, the anchoring faith in God which held them steady and led them to overcome impossible odds is now too often dismissed as quaint legend. It is not. It is history. It is our history. It is the history from which the kernels of American self-government and civilization have been planted and grown. It is the history of Thanksgiving Day.

The story of that “first” Thanksgiving feast day (well, actually, days—it was a three day celebration) is at the core of the whole narrative. A people who might have spent days complaining and gripped by fear and doubt, chose instead to spend their days thanking God, acknowledging His sovereign hand and trusting Him for their future. The power of that thanksgiving to transform their course is what Abraham Lincoln recognized (in another very challenging season of the nation’s life) when, in 1863, he established the custom, by Presidential proclamation, of calling the nation to prayer and thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. (Franklin Roosevelt later adjusted the traditional date from “the last” to “the fourth” Thursday in November–to extend the Christmas holiday shopping season in the wake of the Great Depression).

And so, these 387 years after the first Pilgrim Thanksgiving, as we stare into our future with confidence sometimes shaken, as we wonder what lies around the bend, as the-once-mighty General Motors teeters near collapse, as questions can seem to outnumber answers, as the November weather turns chill on its way to winter, we, too, can find transformational light and hope in the Pilgrim (and very biblical) commitment to thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving Day, stop and pray. Pray with others in your house. Acknowledge God. Thank Him for His sovereign hand in your life (yes, even in the midst of tough stuff), and trust Him for the days ahead. Identify three things for which you can thank God out loud, in the company of witnesses. Read a Psalm (like Psalm 138); read it, also, out loud. Don’t even think about eating that turkey (or those sweet potatoes with melted marshmallows on top) without thanking God first.

And, oh yeah, thank God this year that those Pilgrims didn’t give up. Their faithfulness and fortitude have blessed generations. Yours can, too.

Christmas Blues Survival

bfauntleroy — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 04:15:14 +0000

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