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Inside this issue:

Journey To The Celestial City

2

Grace Church-ROCKAWAY 3

Marriage Builders In 3

Father/Daughter Dinner 3

Baby Bottle Boomerang 3

Child Dedications 3

Membership Class 3

Men’s Bible Study 4

Care-Net 4

DivorceCare 4

GriefShare 4

Grace SWAP 4

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

A Woman’s Heart God’s Dwelling Place

5

Battlefield Of The Mind 5

Celebration of Discipline 5

Faithful, Abundant, True 5

Jonah 5

Twelve Extraordinary Men 5

CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

A Note From Children’s Ministries

6

Word Of Life Snow Camp 7

Small Groups 7

NYC Relief Trip 7

YOUTH MINISTRIES

Finances 7

Family News 7

January/February Calendar

8

Children’s Baptism Class 6

Winter Family Time 6

Save The Date

Route 46 East, Netcong, NJ 973-347-0667

Volume 10, Issue 1

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by Armin Sommer

John 12:20-21 rec ords fascinating encounter. “Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the Feast. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. Sir, they said, we would like to see Jesus. Why did these Greeks want to see Jesus? It was because Jesus answered questions they were

asking. Greek philosophy’s objective was to find answers to the universe’s deepest and toughest questions. Jesus provided answers in a more compelling and coherent way than the accumulated centuries of heady Greek philosophy. These Greeks were smart, but they wanted answers from Jesus. There was a quality about him that they intuitively recognized as a source of truth deeper than Socrates, Aristotle, and all the other ancient philoso-phers. That may be one of the reasons why ancient Greek culture provided such a fertile ground for the gospel in the first century AD. During the month of January, we will present a Sunday morning sermon series that tackles some of the toughest questions that are rumbling like earth tremors through the bedrock of our culture. Questions like:

• “Can the alignment of the stars affect my life?” (After all, didn’t the “wise men” follow the stars to find Jesus?.) • “Does abortion involve more than just a choice?” • “What’s the big deal about beer or tattoos?” (Are they a big deal at all?)

How would Jesus answer these honest and tough questions? Come find out

on January 8, 15, 22, 29

Grace, one church in two locations. No matter which Campus you call home – Netcong or Rockaway, we are glad you joined us. Read

through this newsletter and see all the opportunities there are for your spiritual growth and that of your family. Also, be sure to fill out a visitor's card. We would love to know you are attending and would like to keep in contact with you each week by email.

SUNDAY SERVICES: NETCONG CAMPUS: 8:15, 9:45 & 11:15 A.M. ROCKAWAY CAMPUS: 10:00 A.M.

“TO RAISE UP GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES THAT ARE BUILT TO LAST”

GRACE CHURCH PROUDLY HOSTS

JOURNEY TO THE CELESTIAL CITYJOURNEY TO THE CELESTIAL CITYJOURNEY TO THE CELESTIAL CITYJOURNEY TO THE CELESTIAL CITY

A compelling and lyrical retelling of

John Bunyan’s timeless classic, The Pilgrim’s Progress.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2012 7:30 P.M. Netcong Campus

The Pilgrim’s Progress immortal story of a man named Christian and his companions has been a favorite for generations. Originally published in 1678, John Bunyan wrote this classic from his Bedford, England jail where he was imprisoned for preaching the Gospel. It is the most noted allegory ever told and beautifully expresses—in a simple and relevant fashion—the process of

coming to faith in Jesus Christ and the journey of the believer.

Over the centuries, God has used this story to change the lives of millions, including C.S. Lewis who wrote, “Anyone who is honestly trying to be a Christian and examines Pilgrim’s Progress will soon find his intelligence sharpened; one of the reasons why we need no special education to be a Christian is that Christianity is an education itself. That is why an uneducated believer

like Bunyan was able to write a book that has astonished the whole world.”

Join troubadour Jim Winder and his gifted band of brothers as they present this storytelling concert with original songs that were inspired by the most poignant chapters of the story—from the first

stirrings of the Holy Spirit to the final arrival at the Celestial City of God. Just as compelling today as it was when the passionate preacher put quill to parchment, this is a journey you, your family and

your friends won't want to miss!

“This remarkable journey penetrates and enriches the soul. The story and the music draw you into the Lord’s presence and keeps you there!” Marquis Laughlin, Zion’s Hope Ministries-Fellowship

for the Performing Arts.

Concert is FREE—Tickets are REQUIRED. A love offering will be taken at the end of the event.

Tickets available at the ‘Celestial City Table’ in the Lobby (Netcong and Rockaway) on Sunday, January 1, 8 and 15 or

contact Toni Perry at [email protected] or via cell at 973-223-2665.

Grace Church Rockaway meets on Sunday mornings, 10:00 A.M., at the Dennis O'Brien elementary school. Come join us as we reach central Morris County with the good news of Jesus Christ. Thank you to the many volunteers that made our homeless outreach last month a great success. Thanks to your efforts we were able to provide food, a hot drink, shoes, and best of all the love of Christ to many in great need.

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YOUR SPARE CHANGE CAN

HELP SPARE A LIFE!

This is an opportunity to benefit First Choice Women’s Resource Centers as they reach women making the choice for life. Thanks to a donor’s generosity, your change will be matched. First Choice will receive twice the benefit.

HERE’S WHAT TO DO

Pick up an empty baby bottle at the Information Center in the lobby beginning

January 15. Fill it with your spare change and return before Sunday, February 19.

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Marriage Builders In Action begins January 15 at 9:45 A.M. in the basement of the white house. This class is comprised of couples who are engaged or in the first six years of marriage. Our goals are:

1. To assist couples in developing a solid foundation for a God-honoring marriage by providing biblical teaching on marriage and family related issues.

2. To help couples grow as a unified team and work through difficulties and potential problem areas early in their marriage.

3. To foster spiritual growth as an individual and as a couple.

4. To assist couples in making the social transition from being singles to couples and providing an atmosphere where new friends can be made.

For further information, contact Shirley Wagner a t 973-347-0667 ext 18 or [email protected].

“Train up your child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not return from it.”

Proverbs 22:6 We would like to offer to parents of infants and young children, the opportunity to participate in a Child Dedication. This is a ceremony in which you express your intention to raise your child according to the principles found in scripture and to follow the ways of Jesus. If you are interested in participating in this ceremony on January 22, please contact Linda at 973-347-0667 or [email protected]. You should also plan to attend a brief meeting on January 8 that will explain the details of the dedication process.

Dads, mark your calendars now for the Father-Daughter Dinner on Friday March 2 at Casa Bianca in Oak Ridge. This will be a special evening of magic and memories you will not want to miss. We are also looking for people who would be willing to sponsor a father and daughter who might not be able to afford to attend. Please contact Tim Leonard at 973-347-0667 ext 17 or [email protected] if you want more information.

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Did you know that you can become an official member of Grace Church? Just because you come here every Sunday does not mean you are a member! If you would like to see what it means to become an official member/partner of Grace church, and you attend either campus, we would invite you to attend our Membership/Partnership Classes that are required to become a member. The classes will take place on January 8, 15, 22, & 29 at 5:00 P.M. in the Youth Room at the Netcong campus. The classes run approximately 2 hours and childcare is provided. You must contact Linda at 973-347-0667 or [email protected] to be a part of this class.

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life's most difficult experiences. Gain access to valuable DivorceCare resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. DivorceCare meets on the first Sunday of every month at the Netcong Campus in room 200 (January 1) from 6:30—8:30 P.M. Childcare is not provided. Contact Steve or Tracy Heady at [email protected] with any questions. You can also check out the DivorceCare Website at www.Divorcecare.org to learn more.

Have you experienced the death of someone close to you? Our Griefshare group can help you to move forward!

Begins February 6Begins February 6Begins February 6Begins February 6

GriefShare meets on Monday evenings at 7:00 P.M. at the Netcong Campus (in the downstairs library) and meets weekly. Questions? Contact Frank or Kathy Rizzo at 973-398-1510.




(1 STUDY– 2 LOCATIONS)

ONE HOUR MEETING This Men's Bible study is designed as a group that you can jump into at any time. We have an open door and an open seat for you. If you are not currently in a men's group, this is a great place to start! As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. The sessions are open to all men at Grace and beyond. Choose the one that fits your schedule and then be ready to be challenged and encouraged. For more information, contact Pastor Cameron: [email protected]

Meeting Schedule: JAN 3: 7:00 A.M.- Rockaway Panera Bread

JAN 5 : 6:15 A.M.-Grace Cafe– Netcong Campus JAN 10: 7:00 A.M.-Rockaway Panera Bread

JAN 12 : 6:15 A.M.-Grace Cafe – Netcong Campus JAN 17 : 7:00 A.M.-Rockaway Panera Bread

JAN 19 : 6:15 A.M.-Grace Cafe – Netcong Campus JAN 24: 7:00 A.M.-Rockaway Panera Bread

JAN 26: 6:15 A.M.-Grace Cafe – Netcong Campus JAN 31: 7:00 A.M.-Rockaway Panera Bread

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What is the Grace SWAP? It is a place for people to connect the things that they have (you know, the stuff you no longer need, the stuff in your attic, or drawer, or garage) with people who need them. In the Grace Cafe' you will find cards to fill out describing the item you are GIVING away (All must be free). It will be posted on the bulletin board for others to see, and write down your information. NO items will actually be accepted here at Grace. Once the item is gone, you simply remove your card and praise God for the chance to serve someone else's need.

Do you have the desire and the ability to help other people with the practical things of life: moving, packing, cleaning, making a meal, yard work, etc...? If you like to work behind the scenes and help another person in need, join the Care-Net email team. Periodically, requests for assistance are sent out to members of the team in order to become the Hands and Feet of Christ for someone else. The requests that are shared are from people who are regular attendees at Grace but who do not have the support of a small group. If you are interested in serving with this group, please contact Pastor Cameron Baker at [email protected]. He will be happy to add you to our growing list of helpers. Maybe, you are on the other side of this opportunity. If you find yourself needing a little assistance and are not currently in a small group, drop an email to Pastor Cameron at [email protected] he will be happy to share your opportunity with others who may be able to assist.

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Begins Tuesday, January 10, 9:20 – 11:20 AM,

Youth Room Join Kay Arthur, Priscilla Shirer and Beth Moore for this seven-session Bible study. Kay challenges us to faithfulness in difficult days. Priscilla points to the essential of trust in God's ability, and Beth teaches on how to discern truth from error in these difficult days. Sign up in the lobby or contact Lynne Cartwright at [email protected]. Cost: $15

If you hunger for a deeper spiritual walk with God, join us for the Celebration of Discipline Bible study by Richard Foster. January 1 we will begin studying and discussing the spiritual discipline of Celebration. Our January meetings (these are optional) will be on Sunday, January 15, 11:15 A.M. (room 100) & Monday, January 16 (Grace Café) at 7:00 P.M. The cost is $20 for the book and discussion guide. For more information or if you have questions, contact Doreen Holy at [email protected], Sue Schulien at [email protected].

Navigating a Life Interrupted Begins Sunday, January 15, 2012, 11:15 A.M.– 12:15 P.M., Room 100

What do we do when God interrupts our lives? Many times, like Jonah, we run! In this 7-session Bible study, Priscilla Shirer redefines interruption and shows that interruption is actually God's invitation to do something beyond our wildest dreams. Come find out what God's invitation is for you. Contact Sherrie McDonald at [email protected]. Cost for book: $15

Begins Tuesday, January 10, Room 100 Fellowship time, 6:30-7:00 P.M.

Study time, 7:00 P.M. No Old Testament event illustrates God's persistent desire to relate to His children as the building of the tabernacle. Through the tabernacle God initiated a deeper relationship with His Chosen People by bringing reconciliation and revealing His glory. In this 10-week in-depth Bible study you will be challenged to prepare your heart, like the holy of holies, to become a home for His love and glory — a dwelling place for the Most High God. For more information, contact Carrie Kraus (631-445-9020/ [email protected]) or B e t t y Os t e rh o u d t ( 9 7 3 - 97 8 - 8 5 69 / [email protected]). Cost: $15

Begins Tuesday, January 10, 2012,

6:30 – 8:30 P.M., Grace Café Do you fear tomorrow? Are you quick to condemn others? Do you get angry in traffic? Joyce Meyer shows how she won the battle in her own mind and how you can too. Join this study and begin claiming the freedom and peace that is rightfully yours! Learn biblical principles that you can apply in your daily life. Contact Nancy Ramella at [email protected]. Cost: $15

Begins Thursday, January 5, 2012 7:00-8:30 P.M., Grace Café

This John MacArthur study takes a look at Jesus’ twelve disciples. The men Jesus chose were ordinary, remarkably unremarkable. But they were obedient to the Master’s call. And, under Jesus’ teaching and touch, they became a force that forever changed the world. Contact Susie Arnold at [email protected].

Merry Christmas from Children’s ministries. We hope you have been enjoying your family gift bag. Don’t forget to start the Keys for Kids Devotional January 1. We have volunteer openings in our Netcong and Rockaway campuses: • ROCKAWAY CAMPUS: From January 29-March

1 a temporary preschool teacher is needed for every other Sunday. Please contact Susan McDermott

• NETCONG CAMPUS: From January-March a

person to monitor the elementary hallway for 9:45 and 11:15 A.M.

• NETCONG CAMPUS: A teacher and helper for

4-6 grade is needed twice a month for 11:15 A.M. • NETCONG CAMPUS: A teacher is needed for 2

& 3 yr olds twice a month for 11:15 A.M. • NETCONG CAMPUS: A preschool teacher twice

a month for 9:45 A.M. • NETCONG CAMPUS: A 2nd grade teacher twice

a month for 9:45 A.M. • NETCONG CAMPUS: a Nursery teacher twice a

month for 9:45 and 11:15 A.M. If God is nudging you to volunteer in any of these areas, please contact either Janice or Tara.

A Children’s Baptism Class will be held February 19, 26 and March 4 for children 3rd-6th grade. This is an in depth look at what the bible teaches us about baptism and what it means to a believer. After the 3 week study, they can decide if Baptism is for them or not. Baptism is scheduled for March 25. Homework will be assigned each week and they must bring a bible and pen to each of the classes. Please sign up by contacting Janice for the Netcong Campus and Susan in the Rockaway campus.

Sign up now for the Winter Family Time, a time for your family to gather around a meal and share a activity together. February 4, 11:30 A.M. will be a potluck brunch, please sign up in the lobby in either campus by Januray 29 or by contacting Janice.

2012 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL IS JULY 30-AUGUST 3.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY TEAM:

Janice Rodland- Coordinator of Children’s Ministries [email protected] Tara DiGiacomo Preschool Coordinator at Netcong [email protected]

Susan McDermott Rockaway Campus CM Coordinator [email protected]

SYMPATHIES: Sympathies are extended to:

�Roeland family on the passing of their son, Alex, on November 26.

�Baker family on the passing of Cassie’s mother Laura, on December 11.

PATRIOT PRAYERS

Pray for our servicemen & women: Sam Baker, Daniel Morgan, Frank

Eisbacher, Ben Smith, Samantha Shaw,

Dave Pereda, Josh Williams, Nick Walters, Scott Zetterstrom

To add loved one to the above list, please contact

Lynne Cartwright [email protected].

FOR STUDENTS 7-12TH GRADES

New York City Relief Trip for students in 7th - 12th grades. We will be joining the Relief Bus (www.reliefbus.org) in Elizabeth, NJ and traveling to parts of NYC on Saturday, January 21. We will meet at the church at 6:00 A.M. and return at 6:00 P.M. Only 24 spots available. Please register in the youth room.

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FOR STUDENTS 7-12TH GRADES

We will head to Word Of Life (www.wol.com) on Friday, February 17- 19. The cost is $100. Please sign up in the youth room with payment before February 1st to reserve a spot.

FOR STUDENTS 5-12TH GRADE

During January small groups will meet on January 11, 18 & 25. It is never too late to sign up. Just come Wednesday night and check in at the table in the lobby. For more information please email Pastor Chip at [email protected].

Income vs Budget May - November 2011

$965,307

$788,139$882,511

$-

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

$900,000

$1,000,000

General Income Expenses Budget

Feb 1 • VERTICAL (monthly communion service), 7:00 P.M.

Feb 2 • Men’s Weekly Bible Study, 6:15 A.M. (Netcong Grace Café)

Feb 5 • DivorceCare, 6:30 P.M. • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.

Feb 6 • GriefShare, 7:00 P.M. (downstairs library)

Feb 7 • Men’s Weekly Bible Study, 7:00 A.M. (Rockaway Panera Bread)

Feb 8 • Jr.& Sr. High Small Groups, 7:00 P.M.


Feb 11 • Joy Fellowship, 8:30 A.M.

Feb 12 • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.





Feb 19 • Children’s Baptism Class begins, _____ • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.








Feb 4 • Winter Family T ime, 5:30 P.M.

Feb 17- 19

• Word of Life Snow Camp (7-12 grade)

Jan 1 • New Year’s Day services, 9:45 & 11:15 A.M. • NO REMIX • DivorceCare, 6:30 P.M.

Jan 3 • Men’s Weekly Bible Study, 7:00 A.M. (Rockaway Panera Bread)

Jan 4 • VERTICAL (monthly communion service), 7:00 P.M.

Jan 5 • Men’s Weekly Bible Study, 6:15 A.M. (Netcong Grace Café)

Jan 8 • Membership Class begins, 5:00 P.M. (youth room) • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.


Jan 11 • Jr.& Sr. High Small Groups, 7:00 P.M.


Jan 14 • Joy Fellowship (women’s Bible study), 8:30 A.M. (Grace Café)

Jan 15 • MBA (Marriage Builders in Action) begins, 9:45 A.M. (downstairs in the white house basement) • Membership Class begins, 5:00 P.M. (youth room) • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.




Jan 20 • Journey To The Celestial City, 7:30P.M.

Jan 21 • Jr. & Sr. High NYC Relief trip, 6:00 A.M.

Jan 22 • Membership Class begins, 5:00 P.M. (youth room • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.




Jan 29 • Membership Class begins, 5:00 P.M. (youth room) • Remix, (young adults ages 18-29), 6:00 P.M.


Jan 27-29 • Adult Winter Weekend

Please Note: ALL Calendar items below take place at the Netcong campus unless otherwise stated.

Have an article for the February T imes of Grace? Con-tact Lynne Cartwright at [email protected].

Deadline for articles is Monday, January 9.

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