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Dawn Farris

Go Vols!
Years ago when we lived in East Tennessee we became Tennessee Volunteer fans. "Go Vols!" was the cry heard throughout the football and basketball stadiums along with the familiar sound of the song, Rocky Top!

When I entered into ministry, the shout, "Go Vols!" took on a whole new meaning as we cheered on those who serve faithfully as volunteers in our ministries.

Each week at NTCC, as part of our attendance tracking we take note of the number of volunteers that were a part of making Sunday services take place. The number might surprise you--on average between 65-70 people volunteer each Sunday to help people experience Jesus at NTCC. People serve in so many ways: door greeters, serving and preparing communion, check ins, snow shoveling, music, tech, and of course, teaching in adult, youth and children's classes.

Serving as a volunteer isn't just needed, it's a privilege, and a gift. It's fruit that comes as a  result of our growth in Christ. Jesus came to serve and not to be served, and we are called to follow the same example. It's my experience, that when you serve, you continually get more than you give. But that's not to say that volunteering is always easy, or convenient or even fun. (But lots of times it is, especially in children's ministry!)  But it is our calling and our privilege to serve the King of Kings and to help others come to know Christ as Savior.

When we volunteer and serve together God works in amazing ways. He bonds us together in unity. He builds our faith as we see Him as work. He creates new friendships and helps us grow in grace and compassion with one another as we learn each other's stories and find similarities in our lives. He accomplishes His will to bring more people into His Kingdom, and He grows us more and more into His likeness.

In 2018, it's been a privilege to see more people volunteering in new areas than ever before. Because of this, we are continuing to see more people growing. Personally, I have made more new friends at church, and I have seen God doing amazing things in the lives of adults and children. My story of God's work in growing and so is my faith.

So, thank you, NTCC for volunteering your time, your efforts, your prayers, your money and your hearts to the kingdom of God and may we continue to grow as we serve Him together in 2019. We are thankful for you and God's work in and through you!! Go Vols!!  

Want to know how or where you can use your gifts and talents to serve? Just ask one any of our staff, elders, or anyone else who is serving somewhere, email us, or make a note on your connection card any Sunday. We look forward to serving Jesus with you!

 

Schedule of Events for NTCC
 
January

Jan. 9:   Wednesday night KidZRocK & Loft programs Resume

Jan. 19: Refuge Women freezer meal prep day in the MPB 9am-Noon

Jan. 26-27: 36 Hour Prayer Event. Begins 6am Saturday & ends 6pm Sunday night with praise and worship in the sanctuary. 
 
For more information on any of these events, please call the NTCC office at
319-524-8727.
 
New Testament Christian Church is taking 36 hours and committing ourselves to praying constantly during this time. Our prayer initiative will begin at 6am on Saturday, January 26, and will conclude at 6pm on Sunday, January 27, with a Praise and Worship gathering in the sanctuary at that time.

The church, and a room for prayer, will be open during this entire 36 hour period. There are 144 fifteen minute windows for people to commit to spend time praying. The goal is for each 15 min time slot to be filled and for there to be constant prayer here at the church. If you are interested in committing to a time of prayer here at NTCC please check the available times and sign up for one or more 15 min increments. Time slots will be located on the back table or you can call the office to get into a time slot.

                                                                                                     

Susan Thomson
Missions Leader

                                                                                                                                                                  

     
Shiloh Christian Children's Ranch
 
     Shiloh began in 1977 in Shelbina, Mo with their 1st home being built in Clarence, Mo to place children, who are victims of abuse and neglect as well as other at risk situations into caring homes. The house parents are just like you and me. They bring the children into their home to  care, love, teach about God, and discipline them just as they do their own children.  Joe and I know 1st hand the joys, trials, and heartaches ,as we came to Kahoka as relief houseparents for the homes there. 
 
     Mark Adkison, Executive director, asked the question " What is one of the most rare and precious commodities in our culture and society?"  TRUST!  The Shiloh ministry team feels passionate about TRUST. Why? It's the building block of the relationships we focus on each day. Trusting relationships are critical for our children to see, due to their lack of trust in almost anything and anyone. They have been lied to, neglected, manipulated, or abused, and have no reason to trust on any level. Therein lies the passion! The children are shown and taught how trust is reached and kept by being given the love, Godly teaching, and consistency needed to build trusting relationships.
 
     All the houseparents need our continued prayers and support as they care for the children each day. If you are interested in knowing more about the ministry, their wish list for the sites, and hearing  how each child is progressing or giving to support the ministry, contact the Shiloh office at 573-588-7730 for more information and how to receive their news letter.
 
     As an extra reminder, we are asking you to save those plastic bottle lids and caps, to help get enough to have benches or picnic tables built for Shiloh from the plastic.
 
In January & February, Commission Coffee Corner donations with be shared with Shiloh Christian Children's Ranch
 

 

 





Commission Coffee Corner
Every Sunday, coffee is ready at the Commission Coffee Corner before worship and ABF Classes. Coffee is free, but as you fill your cup, you may notice a jar for donations on the counter. Your donations support a different mission organization each month that is working to bring the good news to all corners of the world.

 

                     

 

Cullen Hartley
NTCC and KCA Administrator
 

“You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.”

Psalm 4:7

 

Many tasks that we undertake feel like a pain and a drudgery. We don’t want to work with those annoying people. We don’t have enough resources to tackle that tough problem. This can’t be what God has really called me to do??! We think these thoughts as we carry on with a multitude of our responsibilities.  
 

However, most of the time the problem is not with our responsibilities but with us! Since childhood our brains have been wired to be self-seeking. We want thrills; we want excitement; we want our environment to reflect our preferences. We want maximum profit for the least effort.
 

Yet, these thoughts are not God thoughts. God does things with an eternal perspective, under His priorities, according to His purposes. Still, God understands our conflicted, self-centered disposition and demonstrates great love and mercy to His people.
 

The prayer challenge for this New Year is to seek to conform our minds to God’s purposes as we joyfully work out our salvation. As a king who was previously a shepherd, David knew the pains of day-to-day labor, and he also experienced the finest extravagances of his era. Even so, he came to the understanding that God is the source of joy, the world’s joys do not compare with what God provides, and doing right in the sight of God brings more satisfaction than all worldly praise. We pray that as our attitudes reflect these truths, our minds and hearts with be primed to serve others and experience more of God’s joy in 2019!

 

 

Please don’t forget to join us for our prayer and worship meeting on Sunday nights from 6pm to 7pm!

 

 

 
            Find and follow Jesus forever

As I was getting things together for this month's newsletter, I learned of the sudden death of a ministry leader named Craig Jutila. Craig was formerly on staff as the Children's Pastor at Saddleback Church in California, ran his own ministry Empowered Living, and was most recently the family pastor at Venture Christian Church in California. I was privileged to meet him and speak with him on several occasions. We used curriculum he published with HiSKidZ at NTCC. His work, words and life have influenced many through the years. He excelled at making the Bible come alive, the gospel clear and equipping  families to grow in Christ together. Here is an excerpt from one of his blogpost called 21 Conversation Starters to Get Your Family Talking. 

Craig's death from a snowboarding accident occurred while he was with his family. Early in his ministry, he allowed work and ministry to overshadow his family. Thankfully, he allowed God to humble him and change him to make an even greater impact in both the kingdom and his family. I hope you will take some time to use these conversations starters to help strengthen your family here at home.


 

 1. If my family could repeat a vacation, it would be . . .

2. I’m a great sister or brother because . . .

3. If I could redecorate my bedroom, I would . . .

4. I like to surprise my brother and sister by . . .

5. The best thing that happened to me this week was . . .

6. The best advice I’ve ever received was . . .

7. The best book I ever read is . . .

8. My favorite teacher is . . .

9. I would like to take my family to see . . .

10. The last time my family laughed together was . . .

11. When I grow up, I want to . . .

12. Today, God used me to . . .

13. My favorite Bible verse is . . .

14. One thing my grandparents say is . . .

15. The last time I told someone “I love you” was . . .

16. If I could give my family one thing, it would be . . .

17. If I could create a new family tradition, it would be . . .
    
18. The talent God blessed me with is . . .
    
19. My favorite holiday is . . .
    
20. The last person I gave a hug to was . . .

21. The last app I used on my phone was . . .


                                       




                           


 Coming January 9th to KidZRocK
                         
Beginning January 9 at KidZRocK, HiSKidZ will be learning about the disciples of Jesus and how the power of God changed their lives. As we learn to find and follow Jesus forever, we will learn about what it means to have be bold, fierce, faithful, sacrifice, humility and more! 

Pray for us as we begin these new lessons and for the impact these truths will have on the lives of HiSKidZ at NTCC.

 

Current Opportunities include:
KidZChurch Volunteers--Come be part of what God is doing in the lives of HiSKidZ.
Training provided.

Nursery Cleaning Team Volunteers--Volunteers are needed to come to the church one afternoon a week to clean the baby and toddler nurseries and toys. 

 

 
HiSKidZ classes on Sunday morning meet at 9am (lessons with Bible skills games) and 10:30 KidZChurch (with songs, lesson, communion time and lesson review games).
NTCC's Youth Programming, TheLoft, for grades 6-12, exists to evangelize, disciple, and equip youth through exposure to God's work, prayer, community, and Christ-centered relationships in order to mobilize them to works of service. The Loft meets on Wednesday Nights in the NTCC MPB. Grades 6-8 meet from 6pm-7:15pm and Grades 9-12 meet from 7:30pm-9pm. On Sunday mornings, grades 7-12 meet at 9am for The Loft AM Bible study all year long.



Calvin Stevens
Student Ministries


 
Greetings from the Loft!
 
       I am writing this message to inform the church that  I will be stepping down from my position as youth minister here at N.T.C.C.

       I have made this decision after much prayer and nudging from God.  My last day will be Sunday, July 6th, 2019. My plan is not to leave the church, just make room for someone that can devote more time to the youth of our church.  The Elders have already begun the search process.  
 
       I am giving a six months notice in the hope that no members or staff are inconvenienced in any way by my stepping down. I promise to do everything in my power to make this transition as smooth as possible. I am writing this message on very good terms with the Elders and staff, and I believe that the best for our church is on the near horizon. If you have any questions to this news feel free to catch me around the church, call, or email me. 
 
      My church family here at N.T.C.C. has really saved my life and helped me be the man of God I am today. I came to this church at a very low point in my life and through your love, and the grace of God I truly feel loved, and like I’m living with purpose.  I really feel blessed to have served alongside so many in the church. I do not plan to leave N.T.C.C. and it’s my prayer that I’ll still be able to serve in other areas as needed. I love this place, and it will always be my church home, even if God calls me somewhere else. As of now, He has not revealed the rest of His plan. I know I will use this time to return to bible college and pursue a degree in counseling.
 
       Please join the Elders, staff, and I in prayer for Gods wisdom during this transition. Pray also for whoever God may lead to Keokuk to serve here at N.T.C.C. It is with a heavy heart that I step down but I know God will make good out of this situation, and it is the best step during this season in my life.  
 
To God be all the glory.
 

 


TheLoft for Junior High

Grades 6-8
6pm-7:15 pm on Wednesday Nights during the school year 

TheLoft for High School
Grades 9-12
7:30pm-9pm on Wednesday Nights during the school year 

For more information about youth programming at NTCC, or more information about volunteering with youth please call
319-524-8727


Cullen Hartley
Administrator

 

Happy New Year!
Keokuk Christian Academy is excited for all of the upcoming events that will happen in 2019. In January, we will be kicking off our basketball season. In addition, we will have School Choice Week on January 21-25. This is a nationwide observance designed to celebrate our freedom to select the best educational experiences for our children.

 

We also want to remind parents that January is a great time to enroll your children in our school. If you are thinking of making the switch in 2019, don’t wait until August! Our new semester starts on January 21 and we would love for your children to join us as soon as possible. Call the office at 319-524-5752 to get started.

 

Important Dates

Jan. 18: KCA vs. Quincy Christian School @ Home (6:00pm)

Jan. 25: KCA vs. Quincy Christian School @ Quincy (Time TBA)

Jan. 21-25: School Choice Week Theme Days

Feb. 1: KCA vs. Mt. Pleasant Christian School @ Home (6:00 pm)

March 1: Early Enrollment Deadline for 2018-19 School Year


 
 
 
For more information about KCA and how to enroll, visit www.keokukchristianacademy.com




FREEZER MEAL WORKSHOP DAY
Saturday, January 19 @ 9am - Noon

Sign up at the tables in the back of the church
Be on the lookout for ingredient list sign up.


There is no charge for this ministry event.

All meals made go to the freezer meal ministry of NTCC. 
For more information, contact Amy Lambert.
 

 

 

Adult Bible Fellowship: Sunday Mornings are just the beginning!

 On Sunday mornings, join our NTCC family in one of our Adult Bible Fellowship (ABF) classes. This ministry exists to equip the NTCC congregation with the Word of God as we live to be obedient to the Great Commission and take the Gospel of Jesus to the world.


At 9:00am:
Chip Ingram: Transformed
Study leader: Dave Snowden

In this series, from Ephesians 4, you will learn how true life change can happen to you. You'll be able to identify the barriers that have held you back from receiving God's best and you'll also learn how to break out of a destructive lifestyle so you can become the person you've always longed to be. This fresh approach to spiritual transformation is designed to move you from the frustration of failure to the freedom you have in Christ.

At 10:30am:

Connie Helenthal will be facilitating this class December though February.

 *NTCC is still in need of additional facilitators'. Schedules are flexible and easily adaptable. If you are interested in being a part of this ministry please call the church office for more information. 319-524-8727


At 10:30am:
Standard Bible Publishing Lesson: Our Love for God
Study leader: Cullen Hartley


This winter, lessons focus on "love". The Biblical outlook on love is grounded in God's unchanging nature. Our acts of love toward Him and others are responses to this aspect of His identity. Throughout this quarter topics will include God as Love, Love for God, Love Like God and Love like No Other. Passages from the books of Deuteronomy, Joshua, Psalms, Matthew, Luke and various Epistles will be explored.


For more information about our ABF ministry, please see Chris Mickelson or contact the NTCC Office 319-524-8727

At 6pm: 
Sunday Night Prayer 


Join New Testament Christian Church on Sunday nights, from 6pm to 7pm, for a come-and-go-as-you-please time of prayer. This service focuses on seeking our God together as the Church through singing, scripture reading, and praying in groups, with a friend, or by yourself. For more information, please see an NTCC staff member.




Small Groups are currently meeting at various locations throughout the tri-state area. Spiritual growth continually occurs in small group cultures, and we encourage every member of NTCC to plug into a group or ABF. 

God uses small group studies to help us BELIEVE, BELONG and BECOME all He desires for us as His body.  Small groups are a great way to connect and be a part of what God is doing in lives here at NTCC.

 

 

MIXED STUDIES

-Tuesdays: at 7:00pm Keokuk, IA - Led in rotation by the Abegglen, Blankenship and Hanson families.

-Thursdays: at 6:30pm Keokuk, IA - Led by Nathan & Kristin Schulte

-Thursdays: at 6:30pm rotating in Carthage & Warsaw, IL - Led by Dave Snowden & Tim Crose

 

MEN'S STUDIES

-Thursdays at 6:00pm: Men's Accountability Group. Led by Calvin Stevens. Meets weekly at NTCC. All Men welcome!


MEN'S FELLOWSHIP

-Thursdays at 11:30am: The 'Barnabas Men' meet each week at 4th Street Café for fellowship & lunch. All men are invited to join!


Women's Small Group and Studies-

 
-Mondays at 3:30pm - Ladies Small Group at Susan Thomson's home in Kahoka, MO.  . 
 
-Tuesdays at 6:30pm - Womens' Study at Dawn Farris' home in Hamilton, IL.  The Group is also involved in times of service and fun. 
 
-Wednesdays at 1:00pm - Ladies Bible Study at River Terrace Apartments Dining Hall. Led by Elly Webb.

 
For more information and details regarding these and other studies please contact the office 319-524-8727
 

 
 
Offering and Attendance
2018 Weekly Need: $5,281.00
       
November  Offering  Attendance   Volunteers
December 2 $9,902.65 219 60
December 9 $11,401.82 200 61
December 16 $4,629.97 206 64
December 23 $4,685.02 269 79
       
 



Monthly Financial Reports are available upon request from the NTCC Office.


 
Click here to catch up on sermons or to listen again
Considering taking your faith to the next level? Contact the office for more options at NTCC
319-524-8727
Click here to contact an NTCC staff member


New Testament Christian Church

Staff
Derek Olsen, Senior Pastor
Dawn Farris, Children's and Family Ministry Director
Cullen Hartley, NTCC Minister of Administration and KCA Administrator
Calvin Stevens, Student Ministries
Bree Hartley, Secretary

Elders
Jeff Doore, 319-524-2376
Ray Miller, 319-795-2500
Bill Schulte, 319-524-7238
John Wardwell, 217-847-3628
David Zanolla, 309-259-0284

Deacons
Tim Crose, 309-224-9408
Harold Hough, 319-524-4365
Denny Moore, 217-242-9402
Nathan Schulte, 319-795-6346
David Snowden, 217-256-3248
Calvin Stevens, 319-670-1430

 

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