View this email in your browser

Quote For Reflection

In a world that constantly compares people, ranking them as more or less intelligent, more or less attractive, more or less successful, it is not easy to really believe in a [divine] love that does not do the same.

-Henri Nouwen

Events & Announcements

Fellowship Hour This Sunday

Before we kickoff our new Sunday School classes on January 15th, we will have a fellowship time this Sunday in place of Adult Sunday School. There will be coffee and hors d’oeuvres in the foyer to enjoy while spending time with our church family.

New Sermon Series

This Sunday will be the first week of our new sermon series called ‘Joy Unleashed,’ a study of Philippians. We will be diving into what it looks like to be encouraged to live out the reality of the Gospel and to really become like Jesus in our fellowship and worship.

Women’s Bible Study

The Women’s Bible study is starting back up soon. Check out the start dates for the various studies and register now!

Ladies Night Out Is Back

The Ladies restaurant outings are back! Click below to see the dates for upcoming restaurant outings and to register.

Men’s Retreat

The Men’s out of town retreat is quickly approaching! Be sure to register soon to secure your spot and let us know you are coming. Click below for more details.

Upcoming VIP Events

Lunch Tour - Dolce Vita on Thursday, January 12th at 11:30am

Brown Bag Lunch - Come listen to Barb & Rich Leary talk about their ministry in Eastern Europe, especially in Ukraine. Thursday, January 26th at 11:30am

Women’s First Friday Prayer Meeting

Meet in the parlor for a time of prayer this Friday, January 6th at 10:30am.

Library Corner

A New Year’s Resolution (and challenge)! Are you intimidated by the idea of reading through the Bible in just 365 days? Did you know that it can be accomplished in just 12 minutes a day? Pick up your free copy of the 365 Daily Bible Reading Plan (on the Library Display table) and start on the path to building a daily habit of Bible reading that will have a ripple effect through your entire life! Let us know if you’re planning to join us in reading through the Bible by registering below. Not quite ready for the challenge? Check out the new Library display for devotionals and books to start your year off right with a focus on what’s really important—spending time with the Lord.

New Book of the Month! For the months of January and February 2023, the pastors have recommended the book Delighting in the Trinity by Michael Reeves. This book is a rich and enjoyable introduction to the basic beliefs of Christianity, leading us to a deeper understanding of every aspect of our faith through a deeper understanding of the Trinity.

Scripture Reading App

Want another way to stay on top of your Bible reading goals? The Bible Project’s Scripture reading app is a great resource! Download the Read Scripture app for a reading plan, encouragement, tools for comprehension, and more.

Adult Sunday School

Beginning on Sunday, January 15th, we will have two Adult Sunday School options:

Faith and Fellowship: A devotional based in the Psalms or one of Paul’s epistles will be given followed by a time of fellowship. Teacher: Brian Kaman, Location: Parlor

The Story of Salvation, from Dust to Glory: Whether you have been reading the Bible for years or are barely familiar with its contents, this overview series by R.C. Sproul will help you see the overarching development of God's plan of salvation from the dust of Eden to the glory of resurrected life in the new heaven and earth. Focusing on the central characters, themes, and events from the Creation to the Passover. Facilitators: Tim Arnette and Gene Whitehead, Location: Room 3

Opportunities to Serve

Serge Short-Term Mission Trip - Malaga, Spain

Interested in the Summer Mission Trip to Malaga this summer? We will be holding an interest meeting on Sunday, January 15th, in Room 25 following the 11 AM worship service! We hope you’ll join us for this opportunity to serve the Lord, make some wonderful new friends, and build relationships! Questions? Contact Brad Wallace.

Have something you want included in the newsletter? Email Sarah Maddox by noon on Tuesday.