There's lots of talk these days about Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While you may not see the word Advent in the headlines--it really is what this season is all about. Advent (the Latin word for coming) is the time we celebrate the coming of Jesus: He came and He's coming. And since we are looking at the life of Jesus in the gospel of Mark--there's no need to change the subject! I am right in the middle of preparations for an exposition about the Jesus that is sure to strengthen your faith this Advent. Worship is a great time to get refocused on the true meaning of Christmas.
Do you know someone who does not attend church? Last week one of our staff members was enjoying lunch downtown Valpo and struck up a friendly conversation with the server. Before leaving, he extended a warm, no-pressure invitation to come to church. And she was there last Sunday--with her kids. Remember as you bump into people during the holidays--God could use you to change someone's life. There is no greater news than this. Jesus came. And He's coming again.
For Your Joy,
Lionel
What's new at Calvary...
Facetime Prayer Gathering
The Facetime Prayer Gathering will meet tonight, 11.28 at 6:30p. This is a great opportunity to come and pray for our church, our city, our country, and the cause of global missions. We hope you will join us for this intimate time of prayer!
Children's Ministries
We need you! If you have a passion for kids and connecting them to Jesus Christ, we'd love to have you join the Rock Solid Children's Ministries team here at Calvary! To learn about the many opportunities to get involved, please visit our Volunteer table this Sunday in the foyer after each of the services or email our Director of Children's Ministries, Victoria Evans-Peasley (victoria@calvaryweb.net).
Come join us as we enjoy Back to the Manger, a Christmas musical that will engage your heart as we are reminded of the gift of Christ and why we celebrate His birth. The musical will be presented by Calvary Kids on Saturday, 12.8, following the adorable preschool choir, Wee Worship, at 6p.
Reliant & Connect Student Ministries
Sunday, 12.16 the Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant Tour visits Calvary with Rapture Ruckus, Capital Kings, and Everyday Sunday! Tickets are on sale at www.itickets.com for $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Doors open for the 6p concert at 5:30p. A limited number of tickets are available for the Calvary community at just $10 by entering "Mitaboni" as a coupon code upon online checkout.
Advent Worship Services
Local outreach is happening here at Calvary this Advent season! Reach out to your friends in the community and invite them to join us for worship at 9a or 10:45a on Sundays in December.
This year we will hold two Christmas Eve Communion Services at 5p & 7p. Childcare will be available for infants through preschoolers during the 5p Christmas Eve service only.
Generous Holiday Assistance
Last year our church provided help to more than 100 people during the holiday season. This holiday season we are providing Aldi gift cards to those in need. If you or someone you know has a special need, please contact lori@calvaryweb.net. If you would like to support our efforts, you may make a tax deductible contribution to the Calvary Church Compassion Fund.
Women's Ministries
Learn to mine the riches of God's Word! Sign-up online or at the Info Desk on Sunday for the Women’s Lord, Teach Me to Study the Bible (In 28 Days) Bible Study held on Mondays, 12.3-1.7 from 6:30-8p.
Men's Ministries
Calvary men and friends are invited to attend the Band of Brothers Christmas Dinner. Come enjoy an evening of fellowship at Pikk’s Tavern on Thursday, 12.6 at 7p. Sign-up and pre-pay ($30) at the Info Desk on Sunday.
Calvary Live
The Calvary Live worship album, Mighty Fortress is still available! The album was recorded here at Calvary, live on Sundays, and features the Calvary worship team. It includes 12 popular worship songs such as 10,000 Reasons, Lord I Need You, and Our God. Be sure to purchase your copy at the Calvary Church bookstore!
Coffee with the Pastors
Calvary guests are invited to join us Sunday, 1.6 from 6:30-8p at Cornucopia Coffee Company. Learn about Calvary’s values and vision, and take the opportunity to ask questions of the pastoral staff in a casual environment. We would love to meet you! RSVP at the Info Desk or online.