Friday, December 28, 2007

December 30, 2007 THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE

Sunday, December 30
9:30 am Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am Sunday Morning Worship – Christmas Carol & Hymn Sing. Joseph, Jesus’ step-father, will be our special visitor.
12:30 pm Evangelism & Service Commission

Monday, December 31
7:00 pm MYF (Youth Group) New Year’s Eve Party at the church

Wednesday, January 2
6:00 pm Family Night Supper and activity
7:00 pm Mennonite Youth Fellowship Bible Study

Thursday, January 3
6:00 am Men’s Prayer Meeting
6:30 pm Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, January 6
9:30 am Sunday School Classes for all ages
10:30 am Worship Service “Heavenly Lights” (Pastor Steve) The Stargazers will be our special visitors
6:30 pm Evening Worship Service “The Archaeology of Christmas” (Pastor Steve)

December 30, 2007 ANNOUNCEMENTS

January 2, Family Night
Dinner at 6:00 pm, followed by
a “Ping Pong Tournament”
Sign up on December 30 on the friendship pads if you will be joining us for dinner or call the church office. You may sign up for the tournaments on Wednesday night. Any questions call Doug Lapp. This Family Night is brought to you by the Ushers and the Jr. MYF. The Jr MYF will bring snacks.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
“If the scriptures don’t sometimes pierce us like a sword, we’re not paying close enough attention.” (Kathleen Norris, The Cloister Walk, Riverhead Books, 1996, page 115)

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) Suggestion: Pray around the world on New Year’s Eve. Locate the countries in every time zone in the world. As the New Year arrives at each time zone, pray for the people who live in those places.

Pastor Steve is on vacation from December 27 to January 2. Please contact one of the Elders in an emergency.

Digging Deeper into the Adult Bible Study Sunday School lesson
Each week comments and inspirational thoughts based on each lesson are posted at www.mph.org/abs. Select the tab for the lesson you want to review.
Purpose is distributed weekly in church mailboxes for those who have requested it. Each issue amplifies the themes discussed in the Sunday School lesson. Contact Ruth Ann Bruner if you want to receive this resource in your mailbox.

ONE YEAR AGO IN MAPLE GROVE HISTORY
We are called to remember the good times and the not-so-good times in our past. The good times encourage us to continue; the unpleasant times remind us that we are humans saved by grace. A year ago Pastor Bill Blank announced his resignation; this was a difficult time for our congregation. We thank the Lord for Pastor Bill’s ministry and we ask the Lord’s blessing in his life. Pray for Pastor Bill, Glenda and Emily as they continue to seek the Lord’s leading in their lives.

“Bibles, Buyers and Bling: Can I Have It All?” is a conference that will be held at Maple Grove Mennonite on January 18 & 19. Jim Miller of MMA will lead us as we discuss our relationship to God and Money. Plan to attend. Childcare provided.

“Weekend to Remember”
Marriage is defined by memories. They can be memories of joy and fulfillment or pain and heartbreak. It all depends on how well you apply the principles that make marriage thrive. For thirty years, the Weekend to Remember conference has been helping couples create the kind of memories that build a healthy marriage. Remember your marriage. Remember this weekend.
Weekend to Remember is a weekend marriage conference that teaches God's design for marriage and family. The environment is fun, non-threatening, and sometimes hilarious. And it's a wonderful time for couples to refresh good marriages or heal troubled ones. There are over 150 conferences in cities all across the U.S. each year. Registration is open to individuals, couples, or groups. Whether you're engaged, newlywed, or remarried, enrich your marriage and begin a godly legacy for your family by attending a conference in a city near you. Or plan a memorable getaway to a destination of your choosing.
February 15-17, 2008 at Hershey, PA

Saturday, December 22, 2007

December 23, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, December 23 (Fourth Sunday of Advent)
8:45-9:45 am – Fellowship and Refreshments
10:00 am – Worship Service & Children’s Christmas Program. Dan the Shepherd will be our special visitor this week.

Monday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
7:00 pm – Christmas Eve Service of Carols and Candles. “Searching for Jesus” (Pastor Steve)

Wednesday, December 26
7:00 pm – Mennonite Youth Fellowship (MYF) meeting

Thursday, December 27
Work day for Carol Mast house

Friday, December 28
Work day for Carol Mast house

Sunday, December 30
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Family Worship Sunday. We will have a service of music led by Mike King. Joseph, Jesus’ step father, will be our special visitor this week.

December 23, 2007 – Announcements

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
I heard the bells on Christmas day
their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
of peace on earth, goodwill to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong, and mocks the song
of peace on earth, goodwill to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
with peace on earth, goodwill to men.”
(from “Christmas Bells” written by Henry W. Longfellow in1864, in the midst of the U.S. Civil War)

Artwork of “The True Meaning of Christmas” by the Maple Grove Sunday School Children is on display in the foyer. The drawings will be on display through Christmas Eve. Children may take their artwork home after the Christmas Eve Service.

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) Suggestion: Send a card, call or visit someone who is spending their first Christmas without a loved one.

We extend our Christian sympathy to Jen McGowan on the death of her step-father, Jamie Harnish, on December 19.

Pastor Steve will be on vacation from December 27 to January 2. Please contact one of the Elders in an emergency.

The Youth Group has extra ham loaves from the fundraiser; please contact Laura Ressler if you would like one.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Ruth Ann Bruner is collecting funds for Ralph Burkey. Ralph is the man who pulls a red wagon along Route 41 to collect cans. See Ruth Ann if you can help. There will be a Christmas Party for Ralph on December 23 at 2:30 pm at the Gap Fire Hall. The public is invited to participate.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm. This week Debbie Groff, Kim Mast & Scott Umble will speak to the group. They recently completed one semester at the ECOLA Bible School. Get ready for the New Year’s Eve party starting at 7:00 pm on New Year’s Eve at the church.

COMING EVENTS

Don’t forget our Sunday Evening Worship on the first Sunday of each month. On January 6, 6:30 pm, Pastor Steve will speak on “The Archaeology of Christmas.”

“Bibles, Buyers and Bling: Can I Have It All?” is a conference that will be held at Maple Grove Mennonite on January 18 & 19. Jim Miller of MMA will lead us as we discuss our relationship to God and Money. Plan to attend. Childcare provided.

Women, mark your calendars for the Maple Grove Mennonite 2008 Women’s Retreat. The retreat will be held at the Eden Resort in Lancaster on Feb 22-23.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Welcome KAI REAGAN UMBLE !

Congratulations to Ryan & Bethany Umble on the birth of Kai Reagan (9 lb. 3 oz.) on Monday, December 17. Both Mother and child are home and doing well. Juliana would have preferred a sister, but she is proud of her new brother. We thank the Lord for this special blessing he has brought into the Umble family.

Saturday, December 15, 2007

December 16, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, December 16
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Rejoice in What God Brings” Isaiah 35:1-10; Matthew 11:2-11 (Pastor Steve) Elizabeth and John the Baptist will be our special visitors.

Tuesday, December 18
8:00 am Prayer and Praise Meeting

Wednesday, December 19
6:30-8:00 pm – Children’s Christmas Program Rehearsal
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) meeting

Thursday, December 20
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting at Church

Friday, December 21
1:00-5:00 pm Christmas Caroling by Junior Youth Group and Seasoned Saints.

Saturday, December 22
9:00 am – 12:00 noon – Children’s Christmas Program Dress Rehearsal

Sunday, December 23
8:45-9:45 am – Fellowship Time / Refreshments Served
10:00 am – Worship Service “Children’s Christmas Program”

December 16, 2007 – Announcements

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
It is a joy to receive new members into the Maple Grove family of faith. Today we welcome Edward & Gloria Gilpin, and Charles & Patricia White as members of our congregation. We are thankful for their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and we’re pleased that they desire to commune with us as we seek to serve Jesus together.

Congratulations to Jen Walton for graduating from Brandywine Nursing School.

December 30 will be a Favorite Christmas Hymn / Song Celebration Sunday. Please let Mike King know what your favorite song is and he will try to include it in the program. There will be no children’s program during worship on that Sunday; everyone will gather in the sanctuary.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

This is the last call to help The Evangelism and Service Commission help a family in need this holiday season. There are needy families in the Octorara School District that could use gifts and a Christmas meal. Contact Tim Fritz, Director of Evangelism & Service, if you can help.

Ruth Ann Bruner is collecting funds for Ralph Burkey. Ralph is the man who pulls a red wagon along Route 41 to collect cans. See Ruth Ann if you can help.

OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE WIDER BODY OF CHRIST
(See the large bulletin board in the foyer or call the church office for more information about these items)

Join the Mennonite Central Committee in responding to a powerful November 15 cyclone that claimed an estimated 3,400 lives in Bangladesh and destroyed many homes. Working with partners, MCC will provide food for 10,000 people for one month and begin a longer term project of reconstructing up to 1,500 homes. Please designate your gift “Bangladesh Cyclone Disaster Response” and sent to MCC, PO Box 500, Akron, PA 17501.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Welcome Mason Christopher Beiler

Congratulations to Chris & Megan Beiler on the birth of Mason Christopher on Wednesday, December 12. Both mother and child are doing well. Cameron & Victoria are getting used to their new brother. We thank the Lord for the new life he has brought into this family.

Sunday, December 9, 2007

Christian Sympathy to Willie Lantz and family

Christian Sympathy is extended to Willie Lantz on the death of his sister, Verna Mae Fisher, on Friday, December 7, 2007. You may visit at the family home on Strasburg road anytime on Sunday and up to the time of the funeral. The funeral service will be held on Monday, December 10 at 9:00 am. You can see the obituary and leave a message at http://obits.lancasteronline.com/index.php?action=view&obit_id=2023547.

December 9, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, December 9 (Second Sunday of Advent)
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages.
10:30 am – Worship Service “Take Heart in God” Isaiah 11:1-10; Romans 15:4-13 (Pastor Steve). The Prophet Isaiah will be our special visitor this week.

Monday, December 10
4:00-5:00 pm – Ham loaf pickup at the Church (For those who placed orders)
6:30 pm – Leadership Team meeting

Tuesday, December 11
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise

Wednesday, December 12
All Day – Women’s Sewing Circle
6:30-8:00 pm – Rehearsal for Children’s Christmas Program
7:00 pm – Mennonite Youth Fellowship (MYF) meeting

Thursday, December 13
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting

Sunday, December 16 (Third Sunday of Advent)
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Rejoice in what God Brings” Isaiah 35:1-10; Matthew 11:2-11 (Pastor Steve) Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist, will be our special visitor this week.

December 9, 2007 – Announcements

As followers of Jesus Christ in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church all of us should:
- Assume the best of each other.
- Speak the truth in loving ways.
- Acknowledge that God has led our decision making process.

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) Suggestion: find someone in the church you don’t know very well and invite them to share a meal with you.

We extend our Christian sympathy to Ann Kennel and family on the death of Ann’s husband, Earl J. Kennel on Tuesday, December 4. A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 8 in the Maple Grove Mennonite Sanctuary.

Do you like to draw? See your Sunday School teacher for the Christmas Drawing Activity sheet or pick one up in the foyer. Your drawings need to be given to Pastor Steve by December 16.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Do you want to experience the joy of giving this Christmas? Of course you do! The Evangelism and Service Commission is looking for people to help out a family in need in the Octorara School District. We can show Christ’s love by helping another family to have a merry Christmas this year by providing gifts and a meal. Please contact Tim Fritz, Director of Evangelism and Service.

A local man is in need of someone to help with house cleaning, a donation of dinnerware and carpentry work. Contact Jim Groff (610-593-6612) if you can help.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 2008
We are sponsoring two mission teams this year, January 12-19 and 19-26. Please sign-up on the sheet posted in the reception. See Eric or Sue Nafziger for more information.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday School Resources
Our youth and adult Sunday school classes use curriculum based on the uniform series. We offer a number of resources for further study into the Sunday school lesson.
“Purpose” is the discipleship magazine for older youth and adults and is distributed in weekly parts. Contact the church office if you do not already receive this in your church mail box.
“Rejoice!” is a daily devotional guide that uses the Daily Bible Readings. You can receive this quarterly in your mailbox.
“Adult Bible Study Online” provides special insight and application for the weekly Sunday school lesson. Look for this at www.mph.org/abs.

HELP! Helpers for the 2 year old class are needed during worship time. Next quarter teachers are needed for the Kindergarten class. Substitutes are always needed for all ages. Contact Denyce Copeland if you feel called to this ministry.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm. This week Buzz Tyson will speak to the group.

COMING EVENTS

“Bibles, Buyers and Bling: Can I Have It All?” is a conference that will be held at Maple Grove Mennonite on January 18 & 19. Jim Miller of MMA will lead us as we discuss our relationship to God and Money. Plan to attend. Childcare provided.

Women, mark your calendars for the Maple Grove Mennonite 2008 Women’s Retreat. The retreat will be held at the Eden Resort in Lancaster on Feb 22-23.

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Funeral Services for EARL J. KENNEL

Christian Sympathy is extended to Ann Kennel on the death of her husband, Earl J. Kennel on Tuesday, December 4. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 8 at 11:00 AM in the Maple Grove Mennonite Sanctuary. Calling hours will be Friday, December 7 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM and Saturday from10:00 am until the time of the service.

You can read Earl Kennel’s obituary and leave a message for the family at http://obits.lancasteronline.com/index.php?action=view&obit_id=2021261.

Monday, December 3, 2007

December 02, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, December 2
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Getting Ready for Christmas” Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 24:36-44 (Pastor Steve)
1:00 pm CPR / AED Training
6:30 pm – Evening Worship Service “Christmas Hymn and Carol Sing”
(Cancelled due to possible bad weather)

Monday, December 3
6:00 pm Mennonite Youth Fellowship (MYF) Girls Cookie Bake at Church

Tuesday, December 4
8:00 am Prayer and Praise Meeting

Wednesday, December 5
6:00-9:00 pm – Free Babysitting provided by the MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship)

Thursday, December 6
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting at Church

Sunday, December 9
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Take Heart in God” Isaiah 11:1-10; Matthew 3:1-12 (Pastor Steve)

December 2, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. We miss you when you are not with us.

As followers of Jesus Christ in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church all of us should:
- Assume the best
- Speak the truth in loving ways
- Acknowledge that God has led our decision making process.

Please remember to reserve dates for using the kitchen and fellowship hall by writing in the calendar on the church office windowsill. Church groups will be given preference to outside groups, but your activity must be recorded in the church calendar book to avoid double booking.

FREE BABYSITTING! The youth group will provide free babysitting for ages 1 and up at the church building on Wednesday, December 5th, 6:00 to 9:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to have a date night or go shopping. Please sign-up on the bulletin board in the foyer.

THANK YOU

Thank you for donating shoe boxes to Bridge of Hope. They will be used for the participant alumni Christmas Parties.

Our family would like to extend our gratitude for the support shown by Maple Grove at our dairy sale through the donations of food and time. A special thank you to Anna, Grace and Rhonda Stoltzfus for their skillful organization and a big thank you to the MYF and their leaders and to so many others too numerous to mention. This church does work well together!
Even more than the sale being a financial success, we are grateful for the love we feel through the overwhelmingly generous donations to Jordan’s Memorial Fund. You have no idea how this helps us as a family to know that a part of him will continue to live on through helping others. Please continue to remember us and many others around us through the holiday season as we are missing our loved ones.
With sincere thanks, Ken, Marilyn, Scott, Brandon, Rhonda and Grant Umble

Thank you to all the women who attended the Red / Pink Hat gathering at our home. We enjoyed the fun, food and fellowship. ~ Francesca and Steve Crane

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

The Evangelism and Service Commission invites you to help a family in need this holiday season. There are needy families in the Octorara School District that could use gifts and a Christmas meal. Contact a member of the Evangelism and Service Commission if you can help.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 2008 - We are sponsoring two mission teams this year, January 12-19 and 19-26. Sign up soon. Contact Eric or Sue Nafziger for more information. Note that passports are required to travel to the DR this year.

Helpers are needed for the 2-year-old class during worship. Other volunteers are needed; contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

A local man is in need of a house cleaning team, donation of dinner-wear and some volunteer carpenters. For more information contact Jim Groff at 610-593-6612

OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE WIDER BODY OF CHRIST
(See the large bulletin board in the foyer or call the church office for more information about these items)

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING TO BENEFIT OTHERS
Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties invites you to a “Community Shopping Night” on Thursday, December 6, 5:00 to 9:00 pm at Ten Thousand Villages, Main Street at Exton, 271 Main Street. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will benefit our mission to end homelessness for single mothers. At 8:00 pm there will be a drawing for a $25 gift certificate. Ten Thousand Villages provides vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts. For more information visit www.bridgeofhopelcc.com.

Clean out your quilt closets for the PA Relief Sale! Recycle quilt supplies and unfinished quilt projects at the PA Relief Sale Quilter’s Attic and New Venture at the 2008 sale. For more information visit the website www.pareliefsale.org.

Friday, November 23, 2007

November 25, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, November 25
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Decisions that Unite Us in Christ” Romans 14:13 to 15:6 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 noon – Evangelism and Service Commission

Tuesday, November 27
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
7:00 pm – Family Life Commission

Wednesday, November 28
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study (1 Corinthians 15-16)
6:00 pm – Family Night “Hanging of the Greens” MYF will participate. Chili will be served.

Thursday, November 29
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
6:00 pm – Red and Pink Hat Ladies will meet at the home of Francesca Crane.

Sunday, December 2 (First Sunday of Advent)
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Getting Ready for Christmas” Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 24:36-44 (Pastor Steve)
1:00 pm – CPR / AED Training
6:30 pm – Evening Worship “Christmas Hymn and Carol Sing”

November 25, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. If you notice that one of the “family” is not here, please let them know that they were missed.

A HUNTER'S PRAYER
Dear Lord, May all hunters be blessed with your grace. To all who wander the fields and forests, may you guide them safely back to camp. Thank you for the blessings of venison meat. Let the hunters always remember it is a gift from you. Thank you also for the hunting knowledge, fellowship and outdoor experiences you give the hunters. May they always remember these blessings from you. Amen.
(ELCA NW Synod of Wisconsin)

During November we consider some of the recommendations made by our church consultant. As Christians in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church all of us should:
-Assume the best.
-Speak the truth in the appropriate settings, in respectful ways.
-Once a decision is made, live with it, even if you don’t like it. Stop re-doing decisions in the parking lot.

THANK YOU

Thank you to all who helped with Ken & Marilyn’s Cow Sale. We raised $2,300 at the food stand. This will be divided between the building fund and the youth group.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Join us for the “Hanging of the Greens” on Wednesday, November 28. Chili will be served beginning at 6:00 pm (thanks to the Evangelism and Service Commission) and we will decorate the church building following supper. The Junior Youth will have a cookie bake that evening; cookie dough will be provided. (This event is sponsored by the Christian Education Commission)

The Red and Pink Hat Ladies will meet on Thursday, November 29 at 6:00 pm at the home of Francesca Crane. There will be Soup, Salad and Dessert, and a fun time for all.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 2008
We are sponsoring two mission teams this year, January 12-19 and 19-26. Please sign-up on the sheet posted in the reception. See Eric or Sue Nafziger for more information.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

Christmas is coming! Kim Miller will direct the Christmas Program. Please take time to sign-up on the sheet in the foyer. The children will rehearse on Sundays during Junior Church time starting this week.

Training for CPR and AED will be on Sunday, December 2 following worship. Anyone interested should see Cathy Case to sign up. The cost is $25 and includes American Heart Association licensed training for CPR and AED for response to an adult, child and infant. There are only two spots left in the class.

Sunday School Resources
Our youth and adult Sunday school classes use curriculum based on the uniform series. We offer a number of resources for further study into the Sunday school lesson.
Purpose” is the discipleship magazine for older youth and adults and is distributed in weekly parts. Contact the church office if you do not already receive this in your church mail box.
Rejoice!” is a daily devotional guide that uses the Daily Bible Readings. You can receive this quarterly in your mailbox.
Adult Bible Study Online” provides special insight and application for the weekly Sunday school lesson. Look for this at www.mph.org/abs.

HELP! Helpers for the 2 year old class are needed during worship time. Next quarter teachers are needed for the Kindergarten class. Substitutes are always needed for all ages. Contact Denyce Copeland if you feel called to this ministry.

The Women’s Precept Bible Study meets on Wednesdays at 9:15 am; this week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 15-16, “What happens when you die?” All women are invited. Childcare is provided. This is the final meeting until after the holidays.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm. This week they will join the Church Family Night as we gather for the “Hanging of the Greens.”

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING TO BENEFIT OTHERS
Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties invites you to a “Community Shopping Night” on Thursday, December 6, 5:00 to 9:00 pm at Ten Thousand Villages, Main Street at Exton, 271 Main St. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will benefit our mission to end homelessness for single mothers. At 8:00 PM there will be a drawing for a $25 gift certificate. Ten Thousand Villages provides vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts. For more information call 610-380-1360 or visit www.bridgeofhopelcc.org.

Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society Sponsors Presentation on Switzerland’s “Anabaptist Year 2007”
On Monday, December 3, at 7 pm, at East Petersburg Mennonite Church, the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society will sponsor an illustrated presentation entitled, ?Switzerland?s Täuferjahr 07: A Celebration of Anabaptism in Story and Visuals.? Members of the USA Liaison Team for Anabaptist Year 2007 ? Sam Wenger, Lois Ann Mast, Joanne and Don Siegrist ? will be speaking and presenting DVD footage about the exciting events that took place this summer in Switzerland.
This event will take place at 7 pm at East Petersburg Mennonite Church, located along Route 72 north of Lancaster, just outside of East Petersburg, PA. This quarterly meeting of the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society is free and open to the public. All are welcome. More information is available from the Society at (717) 393-9745; contact Beth Graybill, Society director.

MCUSA Web Content Manager Job Opening
Mennonite Church USA Executive Leadership seeks a full-time Web Content Manager to join its Communications team in its Newton or Elkhart office. The Web Content Manager will play a key role in developing and enhancing Mennonite Church USA's Web presence as well as ensure that content on the denomination's Web site is consistent with Mennonite Church USA's missional priorities and overall communications strategy. This position provides a unique opportunity to impact and impart Mennonite Church USA's mission, goals and resources through technology and multimedia.
For a detailed job description or to submit a resume, cover letter and work samples, contact Executive Leadership Human Resources at HR@MennoniteUSA.org or call 1-866-866-2872 and ask for Executive Leadership Human Resources. Mennonite Church USA Executive Leadership is an equal opportunity employer and encourages women and Racial/Ethnic people to apply.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

November 18, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, November 18
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Speak the Truth in Love” Ephesians 4:1-16 (Pastor Steve)

Wednesday, November 21
9:15 am - Precept Bible Study Class for women.
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship)
7:00 pm – Community Thanksgiving Service at Latta Memorial Presbyterian Church in Christiana

Thursday, November 22
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting at Church
HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Sunday, November 25
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Decisions that Unite Us in Christ” Romans 14:13 to 15:6 (Pastor Steve) Pray for safety for those who are hunting.

November 18, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. We miss you when you are not with us.

We thank all who helped with the food stand, donated time and food, helped move tables and chairs and many other things for the Ken Umble Cow Sale. We will announce the amount raised for the building fund and the youth fund once all the accounts are figured out. It was great to see so many helping.

During November we consider some of the recommendations made by our church consultant. As Christians in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church all of us should:
- Assume the best
- Speak the truth in the appropriate settings, in respectful ways.
- Once a decision is made, live with it, even if you don’t like it. Stop re-doing decisions in the parking lot.

COMING EVENTS

Community Thanksgiving Service will be held on Wednesday, November 21 at 7:00 pm at the Latta Memorial Presbyterian Church, 23 Green Street in Christiana. One of our Maple Grove worship teams will lead worship. Communion (Lord’s Supper) will be celebrated.

The MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm.

Red / Pink Hat ladies will meet on November 29 at 6:00 pm at the home of Francesca Crane. Please contact Francesca by November 25.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES is a women’s Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. This week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 15, “What if you die, and Jesus wasn’t resurrected? Childcare is provided. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

An CPR and AED training course will be taught at Maple Grove on Sunday, December 2. Bring your lunch and stay after church. Cost is $25 and a certificate will be awarded by the American Heart Association. Contact Cathy Case for more information. There are only two places left in the class.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Bridge of Hope is collecting shoe boxes for a Christmas project. Please bring leave them in the foyer by November 25.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 2008 - We are sponsoring two mission teams this year, January 12-19 and 19-26. Sign up soon. Contact Eric or Sue Nafziger for more information. Note that passports are required to travel to the DR this year.

Helpers are needed for the 2-year-old class during worship. Other volunteers are needed; contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

November 11, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, November 11
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Is God Great?” Exodus 5:1-4 (Mr. Dwayne Walton)
2:00 pm – Eighth Annual Pumpkin Olympics (Jeff & Rhonda Stoltzfus’)

Monday, November 12
7:00 pm – Finance Commission Meeting

Tuesday, November 13
8:00 am – Prayer & Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) “Thanksgiving Centerpiece”

Wednesday, November 14
All Day - Maple Grove Sewing Circle
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) Laser tag at the Laserdome
7:00 pm – Adult Sunday School Teacher Meeting

Thursday, November 15
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting at Church

Saturday, November 17
All day – Maple Grove Food Stand at Ken Umble Cow Sale

Sunday, November 18
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Speak the Truth in Love” Ephesians 4:1-16 (Pastor Steve)

November 11, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. We miss you when you are not with us.

We thank all who participated in our Second Annual Building Fund Auction. About $16,000 was raised for the building fund. The balance on the building project loan is $132,000. We give a big thank you to the Building Finance Committee for their work in preparing and implementing the auction.

November 11 is MAPLE GROVE MISSIONS SUNDAY. The offering will be given to the Mennonite Mission Network. http://www.mennonitemission.net/ We welcome Mr. Dwayne Walton, Director of the Parkesburg Point as our speaker in worship. http://theparkesburgpoint.com/

We thank all who stayed for the brief congregational meeting on November 4 following worship. The congregation voted to have the Finance Commission and Trustees pursue additional estimates for landscaping, retaining wall and steps to the playground. A proposal will be brought back to the church in the near future.

Congratulations to the Maple Grove Women’s Softball Team! They are the Manheim Township Recreation Department 2007 Women’s Softball Fall League Champions. Check out the trophy in the foyer.

COMING EVENTS

The MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week the youth will go to the Laserdome for laser tag.

Jeff & Rhonda Stoltzfus will host the 8th Annual Pumpkin Olympics on Sunday, November 11 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. There will be many pumpkin related activities; funds raised will benefit the Bethany & Ryan Umble Missionary Fund.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 17. Ken & Marilyn Umble are hosting a countywide cow sale at their farm. Maple Grove will run the lunch stand as a fund raiser. Profits will be split between the building fund and the youth group. Food donations and volunteers are needed. Contact Grace King for more information.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) is a fellowship program for mothers of young children and meets on Wednesdays at 9:15 am. This week Melba King will teach how to make “Thanksgiving Centerpieces.” Classes for children are provided.

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES is a women’s Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. This week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 15, “What if you die, and Jesus wasn’t resurrected? Childcare is provided. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

An CPR and AED training course will be taught at Maple Grove on Sunday, December 2. Bring your lunch and stay after church. Cost is $25 and a certificate will be awarded by the American Heart Association. Contact Cathy Case for more information.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Bridge of Hope is collecting shoe boxes for a Christmas project. Please bring leave them in the foyer by November 25.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 2008 - We are sponsoring two mission teams this year, January 12-19 and 19-26. Sign up soon. Contact Eric Nafziger for more information. Note that passports are required to travel to the DR this year.

Needed: helpers for the 2-year-old class during worship. Other volunteers are needed; contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

West Fallowfield Christian School will hold their Annual Banquet on November 13 at 6:00 pm. Dinner will be followed by a dessert reception in the new gym. Rita Rhodes will speak on Forgiveness as exemplified by the Amish Community of Nickel Mines. An offering will be taken to support Operation Badget. Contact the school for more information, 610-593-5011.

Seniors United for Recreation and Fellowship (SURF) will meet on Wednesday, November 14, 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Penningtonville Presbyterian Church. A light lunch will be served.

The Penningtonville Presbyterian Church invites area residents over the age of sixty to their complimentary annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Saturday, November 17 at noon. RSVP to 610-593-2173.

The Factory Youth Center of Paradise, PA will hold a Bountiful Breakfast Buffet on Saturday, November 17 from 7:00 to 10:00 am at the Kinzer Fire Hall. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children under 10.

Sunday, November 4, 2007

November 4, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, November 4
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “The Benefit of the Doubt” John 20:24-31 (Pastor Steve)
6:30 pm – Evening Worship (George Metzler)

Tuesday, November 6
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together)
7:00 pm – Care Team Meeting

Wednesday, November 7
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study (1 Corinthians 15)
5:15-6:15 pm – “Growing With God” Church Auction Preview and Dinner
6:30 pm – “Growing With God” Church Auction

Thursday, November 8
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
6:30 pm – Leadership Team

Sunday, November 11
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service – Missions Sunday – Dwayne Walton will speak
2:00 pm – 8th Annual Pumpkin Olympics (Jeff & Rhonda’s).

November 4, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. If you notice that one of the “family” is not here, please let them know that they were missed.

The ANNUAL “GROWING WITH GOD” CHURCH AUCTION to benefit the building fund will be held on Wednesday, November 7. The auction preview and dinner will begin at 5:15 pm and the auction will start at 6:30 pm. We thank John Stoltzfus for serving as our auctioneer. During the auction there will be a food stand, child care for preschoolers, activities for grades K to 5, baking contests for grades 6 to 12, and door prizes. A preliminary list of auction items was published in the Sunday announcement bulletin.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rachel Lusby and Reuben Bender who were united in holy matrimony on Saturday, November 3 in our church building.

During November we will consider some of the recommendations made by our church consultant. As Christians in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church we should:
- Assume the best.
- Speak the truth in the appropriate settings, in respectful ways.
- Once a decision is made, live with it, even if you don’t like it. Stop re-doing decisions in the parking lot.

Next Sunday is MISSIONS SUNDAY. The offering for that day will be given to the Mennonite Mission Network. Mennonite Mission Network exists to lead, mobilize and equip the church to participate in holistic witness to Jesus Christ in a broken world. MMN envisions every congregation and all parts of the church being fully engaged in mission - across the street, all through the marketplaces and around the world. You can learn more about the Mennonite Mission Network at http://www.mennonitemission.net/. Mr. Dwayne Walton, Director of the Parkesburg Point will be our speaker that morning.

Christmas is coming! Kim Miller will direct the Christmas Program. Please take time to sign-up on the sheet in the foyer. Rehearsal will begin soon.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The 8th Annual Pumpkin Olympics will be held on Sunday, November 11 from 2:00 – 5:00 pm. Join the annual family fun at the farm of Jeff & Rhonda Stoltzfus. There will be pumpkin games and snacks for everyone. This year there will be fundraising activities to benefit the Ryan and Bethany Umble mission fund.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

Volunteers are needed to work the food stand for the Ken & Marilyn Umble’s cow sale on November 17. Maple Grove will run the lunch stand. Proceeds from the lunch stand will go to the MYF and the building fund. Food donations are also needed. Contact Grace King for more information or to sign-up.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

Training for CPR and AED will be on Sunday, December 2 following worship. Anyone interested should see Cathy Case to sign up. The cost is $25 and includes American Heart Association licensed training for CPR and AED for response to an adult, child and infant.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN CHURCH MEMBERSHIP? Pastor Steve will lead a class for those who want to know more about officially joining our congregation. The class will be held mid November to mid December during the Sunday School hour. Contact Pastor Steve if you have any questions.

NEW BOOKS have been added to our church library. Look them over and check them out!

HELP! Helpers for the 2 year old class are needed during worship time. Next quarter teachers are needed for the Kindergarten class. Substitutes are always needed for all ages. Contact Denyce Copeland if you feel called to this ministry.

LIFT is a fellowship program for mothers of young children and meets on Tuesdays at 9:15 am. Childcare and preschool classes are provided. This week Kaylene Derksen will speak about “Hospitality on the Run.”

The Women’s Precept Bible Study meets on Wednesday at 9:15 am; this week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 15, “Why the Gospel? What’s your worldview?” All women are invited. Childcare is provided.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week the youth will participate in the Annual Church Auction. Get ready for Lazertag on November 14!

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

The Cornerstone Pregnancy Care Services, Oxford Women’s Clinic, Gap Women’s Center and Lincoln University will have their annual benefit auction on Saturday, November 10 at Kinzer Fire Company. Preview from 8:30 – 9:00 am. The auction begins at 9:00 am. Food and baked goods will be available.

The Factory Youth Center in Paradise will hold a bountiful breakfast buffet on Saturday, November 17 from 7:00 – 10:00 am at the Kinzer Fire Hall. Adults are $7 and children under 10 are $4.

The Deacons of the Penningtonville Presbyterian Church invite local residents over the age of 60 to the ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER on Saturday, November 17 at noon. RSVP to 610-593-2173 by Nov 13.

Friday, October 26, 2007

October 28, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, October 28
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “From Whence Cometh Thou?”
Deuteronomy 4:9-10 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 noon – Potato Bar sponsored by MYF

Monday, October 29
7:00 pm – Worship & Music Commission meeting

Tuesday, October 30
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together)
7:45 pm - Women's Softball Championship game at Stauffer Park

Wednesday, October 31
All Day – The Sewing Circle will work at the Reuse-it Quilting Room in Spring Garden.
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study (1 Corinthians 12-14)
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) meeting: Buzz Tyson will speak

Thursday, November 1
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church

Saturday, November 3
Remember to set your clocks back one hour before bed (Fall Back).

Sunday, November 4
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “The Benefit of the Doubt” John 20:24-31 (Pastor Steve)
6:30 pm – Evening Worship Service – George Metzler will speak.

October 28, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. If you notice that one of the “family” is not here, please let them know that they were missed.

Today (November 4) is MENNONITE HERITAGE SUNDAY. For the Anabaptists, the Bible was and is the basis of our faith. Mennonites are a branch of the Anabaptists. Each of our Mennonite distinctives comes directly from the Scripture: commitment to discipleship, community, and nonresistance all arise out of our unique approach to the Bible. The written Word of God was and is central to our faith and life. Because of this commitment, Anabaptists in Century Europe were persecuted for their faith.. Mennonites also have a rich heritage of sacred music. Every Mennonite family that migrated out of Europe had a wooden trunk that contained the family belongings. Among the varied possessions you could always find three treasured belongings: the family Bible, the Anabaptist Hymnal and “The Martyrs Mirror.” You can learn more with a visit to the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society (http://www.lmhs.org/).

During November we will consider some of the recommendations made by our church consultant. As Christians in communion with the Maple Grove Mennonite Church we should:
-Assume the best.
-Speak the truth in the appropriate settings, in respectful ways.
-Once a decision is made, live with it, even if you don’t like it. Stop re-doing decisions in the parking lot.

MISSIONS SUNDAY is November 11. The offering that day goes to the Mennonite Mission Network. Mennonite Mission Network exists to lead, mobilize and equip the church to participate in holistic witness to Jesus Christ in a broken world. MMN envisions every congregation and all parts of the church being fully engaged in mission - across the street, all through the marketplaces and around the world. You can learn more about the Mennonite Mission Network at http://www.mennonitemission.net/. Mr. Dwayne Walton, Director of the Parkesburg Point will be our speaker that morning.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Mennonite Youth Fellowship will hold a POTATO BAR after worship on October 28. There will be baked potatoes with an assortment of toppings, salad, drinks and dessert. Come and support the youth!

The 8th Annual Pumpkin Olympics will be held on Sunday, November 11 from 2:00 – 5:00 pm. Join the annual family fun at the farm of Jeff & Rhonda Stoltzfus. There will be pumpkin games and snacks for everyone. This year there will be fundraising activities to benefit the Ryan and Bethany Umble mission fund.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer. The Sewing Circle will meet at the Reuse-it Quilt shop in Spring Garden on Wedensday, October 31.

MEALS ON WHEELS of Parkesburg is looking for volunteers to deliver meals one day a month. Call Marie Castetter 610-857-3666 if you can help.

Volunteers are needed to work the food stand for the Ken & Marilyn Umble’s cow sale on November 17. Maple Grove will run the lunch stand. Proceeds from the lunch stand will go to the MYF and the building fund. Food donations are also needed. Contact Grace King for more information or to sign-up.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

HELP! Helpers for the 2 year old class are needed during worship time. Next quarter teachers are needed for the Kindergarten class. Substitutes are always needed for all ages. Contact Denyce Copeland if you feel called to this ministry.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN CHURCH MEMBERSHIP? Pastor Steve will lead a class for those who want to know more about officially joining our congregation. The class will be held in November during the Sunday School hour. Contact Pastor Steve if you have any questions.

NEW BOOKS have been added to our church library. A list was published in the weekly bulletin. Look them over and check them out!

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) meets every Tuesday, 9:15 – 11:00 am. This is a time of fellowship and learning for mothers of young children. Childcare and preschool classes are provided. This week Jalisa Gingrich will speak about “Help! I’m Unorganized.”

The Women’s Precept Bible Study meets on Wednesday at 9:15 am; this week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 12-14, “Confused About Spiritual Gifts?” All women are invited. Childcare is provided.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week Buzz Tyson will speak to the group. Buzz is Executive Director of the Lighthouse Youth Center in Oxford, PA.

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

The House of His Creation invites you to a public re-open house October 28 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. HoHC is located at 720 Buck Run Road, Coatesville (Ercildoun).

TASTE OF HOPE
Announcing Kaleidoscope 2007 “Taste of Hope,” a Latin American marketplace event hosted by Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties on Saturday, November 3, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, 3723 Ridge Road, Gordonville. Entertainment will include a Brazilian Capoeira Group and a Puerto Rican vocal group. Children ages 4-11 can attend the Kids’ Café with a Latin American theme complete with a “kid-friendly” meal, crafts, games, and entertainment including a Brazilian Drummer’s Circle. For more details call 717-394-7406 or visit www.bridgeofhopelcc.org. Reservations requested by November 1.

The Factory Youth Center in Paradise will hold a bountiful breakfast buffet on Saturday, November 17 from 7:00 – 10:00 am at the Kinzer Fire Hall. Adults are $7 and children under 10 are $4.

The Deacons of the Penningtonville Presbyterian Church invite local residents over the age of 60 to the ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER on Saturday, November 17 at noon. RSVP to 610-593-2173 by Nov 13.

Monday, October 22, 2007

October 21, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, October 21
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Don’t Give Up!” Luke 18:1-8 (Pastor Steve)
4:00 pm – Funeral Service for Art King

Monday, October 22
7:00 pm – Leadership Team meeting

Tuesday, October 23
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together)
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball Semi-Finals game at Stauffer Park

Wednesday, October 24
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study (1 Corinthians 11)
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) meeting: George Metzler will speak

Thursday, October 25
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball Championship game at Stauffer Park

Friday, October 26
6:30 pm – ACC Mennonite Women Dinner (Ridgeview Mennonite Church)
7:30 pm – ACC Mennonite Women Program (Ridgeview)

Saturday, October 27
9:00 am – 3:45 pm – Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Fall Assembly at Ridgeview Mennonite Church

Sunday, October 28
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “From Whence Cometh Thou?” Deuteronomy 4:9-10 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 noon – Potato Bar sponsored by MYF

October 21, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. If you notice that one of the “family” is not here, please let them know that they were missed.

Next Sunday is MENNONITE HERITAGE SUNDAY. Maple Grove Mennonite Church was born out of a rich heritage of faith. Many people have chosen to be adopted into this heritage when they joined the church. Mennonites (known as Anabaptists) began forming in the early 1500s and became known as part of the radical reformation because they wanted to make more radical changes than the Protestant reformers such as Luther and Calvin. Because of this, Mennonites were heavily persecuted. Anabaptists reacted to this persecution by forming a belief system based on the Bible, believers baptism, peace, justice, non-resistance, separation from the world’s values, and gift based ministry. We thank God for the rich heritage that has set the foundation for our congregation.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY is offered to Naomi King on the death of her husband, Art King who went to be with the Lord on Friday, October 19. You can read the obituary at http://obits.lancasteronline.com/index.php?action=view&obit_id=1993153.

A MEMBERSHIP CLASS will be held during the Sunday School hour throughout November. See Pastor Steve if you are interested in learning more about church membership.

HELP Do you have an old family Bible in German that was brought to America by your ancestors? Would you be willing to loan it to Pastor Steve? Contact Pastor Steve.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Mennonite Youth Fellowship will hold a POTATO BAR after worship on October 28. There will be baked potatoes with an assortment of toppings, salad, drinks and dessert. Come and support the youth!

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

MCC GROCERY BAGS were distributed last Sunday. Please fill them and return them to the church this week.

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

MEALS ON WHEELS of Parkesburg is looking for volunteers to deliver meals one day a month. Call Marie Castetter 610-857-3666 if you can help.

Volunteers are needed to work the food stand for the Ken & Marilyn Umble’s cow sale on November 17. Maple Grove will run the lunch stand. Proceeds from the lunch stand will go to the MYF and the building fund. Food donations are also needed. Contact Grace King for more information or to sign-up.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

NEW BOOKS have been added to our church library. A list was published in the weekly bulletin. Look them over and check them out!
LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) meets every Tuesday, 9:15 – 11:00 am. This is a time of fellowship and learning for mothers of young children. Childcare and preschool classes are provided. This week the LIFT Staff will lead “The Greatest Recipe Swap Ever.”

The Women’s Precept Bible Study meets on Wednesday at 9:15 am; this week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 11. All women are invited. Childcare is provided.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week George Metzler will speak to the group.

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

The Atlantic Coast Mennonite Women Annual Dinner will be held on Friday, October 26 at Ridgeview Mennonite Church in Gordonville.

October 27 is the Fall Assembly of the Atlantic Coast Conference at Ridgeview Mennonite Church. All members of ACC churches are encouraged to attend.

TASTE OF HOPE
Stroll the alleys of a Latin American marketplace while tasting rice and beans at Rosa’s Café or tortillas at Pedro’s Casa at Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties Kaleidoscope 2007 “Taste of Hope,” Saturday, November 3, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, 3723 Ridge Road, Gordonville. This is a family affair, adults will enjoy entertainment, food and a silent auction of over 100 items while the children enjoy their own Latin American experience. Register now by calling 717-394-7406 or visiting www.bridgeofhopelcc.org. Reservations requested by November 1.

The Deacons of the Penningtonville Presbyterian Church invite local residents over the age of 60 to the ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER on Saturday, November 17 at noon. RSVP to 610-593-2173 by Nov 13.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

October 14, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, October 14
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Resetting the Bones of the Body of Christ” 1 Corinthians 11:17-29 (Pastor Steve)

Tuesday, October 16
MCC Work Day (Akron)
8:00 am – Prayer & Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) Budgeting 101 with Jewell Shivery

Wednesday, October 17
9:15 am – Women’s Bible Study (Precept)
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) Barn Party at Ken & Marilyn Umble’s

Thursday, October 18
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer Meeting at Church

Sunday, October 21
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Don’t Give Up” Luke 18:1-8 (Pastor Steve)

October 14, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. We miss you when you are not with us.

COMING EVENTS

The MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week is the Barn Party at Ken & Marilyn Umble’s. Girls bring a snack, guys bring a drink and everyone bring warm clothing.

November 7 is the date for our 2nd Annual Building Fund Auction. Dinner will begin at 5:15 and the auction will begin at 6:30 pm. During the auction there will be a food stand, childcare for preschool age children, activities for elementary age children and baking contests for grades 6 to 12. Donations may be brought to the church building.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 17. Ken & Marilyn Umble are hosting a countywide cow sale at their farm. Maple Grove will run the lunch stand as a fund raiser. Profits will be split between the building fund and the youth group. Food donations and volunteers are needed. Contact Grace King for more information.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) is a fellowship program for mothers of young children and meets on Wednesdays at 9:15 am. This week Jewell Shivery will teach “Budgeting 101.” Classes for children are provided.

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES is a women’s Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. This week’s lesson is on 1 Corinthians 10. Childcare is provided. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Thursday, October 18 is the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Work Day. Contact Harold Umble for more information.

Grocery Bags for MCC were handed out today. Please fill them and return them by next Sunday, October 21. They will be taken to the ACC Fall Assembly on October 27.

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

On October 15 the MMA will hold a Stewardship Education Event: “Becoming One Financially” is a workshop for young couples to talk about the role of finances in their relationship.

The Atlantic Coast Mennonite Women Annual Dinner will be held on Friday, October 26 at Ridgeview Mennonite Church in Gordonville. Rebecca Sommers, President of Mennonite church USA will speak on the topic “Life is Like a Patchwork Quilt.”

October 27 is the Fall Assembly of the Atlantic Coast Conference at Ridgeview Mennonite Church. All members of ACC churches are encouraged to attend.

TASE OF HOPE Enjoy gourmet coffee and premier desserts in a Latin American marketplace at Bridge of Hope Lancaster and Chester Counties’ “Taste of Hope,” Saturday, November 3, 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, 3723 Ridge Road, Gordonville. Visit www.bridgeofhopelcc.org for more information.

Friday, October 5, 2007

October 7, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, October 7
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service (Mike Weaver will speak on Habakkuk 3)
6:30 pm – Evening Worship

Monday, October 8
7:00 pm – Worship & Music Commission work night

Tuesday, October 9
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together)
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball game at Stauffer Park

Wednesday, October 10
All Day – Women’s Sewing Circle
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) meeting: Mike King will speak
7:00 pm – MGMC Coordinating Body meeting

Thursday, October 11
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
7:00 pm – Leadership Team meeting
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball game at Stauffer Park

Sunday, October 14
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship and Communion Service: “Resetting the Bones of the Body of Christ” (Pastor Steve)

October 7, 2007 – Announcements

Every Sunday is a family reunion for the family of God. If you notice that one of the “family” is not here, please let them know that they were missed.

THANKS
Thanks to all who helped seed the area around the playground and the water runoff swale and for setting up the playground equipment! The fence has been installed and the children are enjoying the playground again. Pray for rain to help the grass grow.

Thanks to all the Maple Grove Church Commission members for their participation in the Vision Casting Meeting last Sunday. The leaders of the church have prepared a vision for ministry during the next 12 months. These plans will be coordinated on Wednesday at the MGMC Coordinating Body meeting.

HELP
Do you have an old family Bible in German that was brought to America by your ancestors? Would you be willing to loan it to Pastor Steve? Contact Pastor Steve.

Christmas is coming! The Christian Education Commission is seeking the person God wants to direct the Christmas Play. Contact Melba King.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) meets every Tuesday, 9:15 – 11:00 am. This is a time of fellowship and learning for mothers of young children. Childcare and preschool classes are provided. This week Vicky King will teach the group how to make Kid’s Cakes.

The Women’s Bible Study will not meet this Wednesday; all the ladies are encouraged to join in the activities of the Sewing Circle.

MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) is for youth in grades 9-12 and meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. This week Mike King will speak to the youth.

PARTICIPATION IN THE GREATER BODY OF CHRIST
(Contact the Church Office or check out the bulletin board in the main foyer for more information about any of these items)

The West Fallowfield Christian School will hold their Annual Pot Pie Supper on Friday, October 12 from 4 to 7 pm. The 26th Annual Country Auction begins at 9am on Saturday the 13th.

On October 15 the MMA will hold a Stewardship Education Event: “Becoming One Financially” is a workshop for young couples to talk about the role of finances in their relationship.

Thursday, October 18 is the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Work Day.

The Atlantic Coast Mennonite Women Annual Dinner will be held on Friday, October 26 at Ridgeview Mennonite Church in Gordonville.

October 27 is the Fall Assembly of the Atlantic Coast Conference at Ridgeview Mennonite Church. All members of ACC churches are encouraged to attend.

Monday, October 1, 2007

September 30, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, September 30
8:45 am – prayer time
9:30 am – Sunday School
10:30 am – Worship Service “God’s Plans – Our Plans” Proverbs 16:1-3; Luke 14:27-33 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 – 3:30 pm – All Commissions Planning Meeting

Monday, October 1
7:00 pm – Maple Grove Mennonite Preschool Board Meeting

Tuesday, October 2
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together)
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball gave at Stauffer Park

Wednesday, October 3
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study
No Youth Meeting this week (New Holland Farmers Fair Parade)

Thursday, October 4
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball game at Stauffer Park

Sunday, October 7
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service with Mike Weaver
6:30 pm – Evening Worship

September 30, 2007 – Announcements

THANKS

Thanks go to Curt King and the trustees for preparing the land behind the church building for the playground and swale for water run off. A lot of dirt was moved in this project. Mulch was laid on the playground platform. This week the playground equipment and fence will be re-installed.

Thanks to all the Maple Grove Church Commission members for their participation in the Vision Casting Meeting on Sunday.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE is responding to the drought areas in PA. You can donate funds, hay, corn or corn silage to this cause. Call 717-768-4670 for more information. Farmers who want to donate corn or soybeans or other grains for draught stricken farmers in central PA can do so by delivering it to Hostetter Grain, Weaver’s Toasted Grain, or Risser Grain.

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES
LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) meets every Tuesday, 9:15 – 11:00 am. This is a time of fellowship and learning for mothers of young children. Childcare and preschool classes are provided. This week Gina Reid will teach a fall craft.

PRECEPTS FOR WOMEN is a ladies Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

Friday, September 21, 2007

September 23, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, September 23
WELCOME FALL
8:45 am – prayer time
9:30 am – Sunday School
10:30 am – Worship Service “God’s Family” 1 John 3:1-2, 10-16 (Pastor Steve)

Monday, September 24
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball gave at Stauffer Park

Tuesday, September 25
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise
9:15 am – LIFT (Learning In Fellowship Together)
7:00 pm – Leadership Team Meeting

Wednesday, September 26
9:15 am – Women’s Precept Bible Study
6:30 pm – Mennonite Youth Fellowship (MYF)
7:00 pm – Family Life Commission Meeting

Thursday, September 27
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
5:30 pm – Red / Pink Hat Ladies meet at Cathy King’s
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball game at Stauffer Park

Sunday, September 30
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Family Worship Service “God’s Plans – Our Plans” Proverbs 16:1-3; Luke 14:27-35
12:00 – 3:30 pm – All Commissions Planning Meeting

September 23, 2007 – Announcements

THANK YOU to all who helped collect food items for the Octorara School District Food Pantry. There were church members and friends standing in front of Dutch-Way Market all day Saturday, September 22. Thank you to the Evangelism & Service Commission for organizing this event.

THANK YOU to the Family Life Commission for the lovely mums the presented to the grandparents of our congregation.

AT THE ANNUAL MEETING on September 16 the annual budget was approved as presented in the Annual Report and Melba King was affirmed as Director of Christian Education for one more year. The Leadership Team presented their plans to follow up on the congregational consultation recommendations.

NEXT SUNDAY, September 30, is Family Worship Sunday. There will be no child care or Junior Church. Everyone will come together in the sanctuary following Sunday School. We encourage families to sit together and worship together.

MISSIONARY SUPPORT Everyone is invited to Maple Grove Mini-Golf Night at Village Greens in Strasburg on Friday, September 28 at 7:00 pm. A portion of the ticket sales will go toward Ryan and Bethany Umble’s missionary support fund. Tickets will be on sale in the foyer on Sunday morning.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The Red / Pink Hat Ladies will meet on September 27, 5:30 pm at Joe & Cathy King’s. Meat and drink will be provided. Bring a covered dish to share. Men are invited to dust off a hat and join the ladies for an evening of fun.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE is responding to the drought areas in PA. You can donate funds, hay, corn or corn silage to this cause. Call 717-768-4670 for more information. Farmers who want to donate corn or soybeans or other grains for draught stricken farmers in central PA can do so by delivering it to Hostetter Grain, Weaver’s Toasted Grain, or Risser Grain.

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

TEACHERS ARE NEEDED for Sunday School: helper for the kindergarten class and a half-time teacher for the 3-4 year olds through March. Contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

LIFT (Learning In Fellowship Together) will begin on September 25 with a Welcome Back Luau. Teachers are needed. Contact Trudy Henderson if you can help.

PRECEPTS FOR WOMEN is a ladies Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

MENNONITE PUBLISHING NETWORK is offering workshops on education for all ages and on worship at Souderton Mennonite Church on September 29. See Pastor Steve or www.franconiaconference.org for more information.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

September 16, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, September 16
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “I am the Door” John 10:1-10 (Pastor Ed Glover)
12:00 noon – Church Dinner
5:00 pm – Senior’s Ice Cream Social
7:00 pm – Annual Congregational Meeting

Monday, September 17
7:00 pm – Worship & Music Commission
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball at Stauffer Park

Tuesday, September 18
8:00 am – Prayer & Praise

Wednesday, September 19
9:15 am – Women’s Bible Study (Precept)
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) service project for Bridge of Hope

Thursday, September 20
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball at Stauffer Park

Saturday, September 22
7:00 am – Food Drive at Dutch-Way Market (all day)

Sunday, September 23
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “God’s Family” 1 John 3:1-2,10-16 (Pastor Steve)

September 16, 2007 – Announcements

TODAY, SEPTEMBER 16
We welcome Becky Yoder Boll and Pastor Ed Glover with us this morning. Becky serves with the Urban Impact Foundation, Athletics and Special Projects. Urban Impact (www.playballforkids.org) was created to foster Christian community development on Pittsburgh’s North Side by bringing help, hope and healing to the community one person, one family, one block at a time. Rev. Dr. Ed Glover is founder and President of Urban Impact Foundation and also serves as Associate Pastor at Christ Church at Grove Farm (www.ccgf.org).
The Family Life Commission will honor the grandparents of our church today following worship. Also, they are sponsoring an ICE CREAM SOCIAL for Senior Citizens at 5:00.

CHURCH BUILDING DEDICATION
We thank all who participated in our building addition dedication on Sunday, September 9. A great day was had by all. The work of the Building Committee is done!

INFORMATION NEEDED
We need to up-date our e-mail address list. Please sent your current e-mail address to mgchurch@netzero.net and pastorscrane@epix.net. We will use the list to contact you about special meetings and activities that pertain to you.

COMING EVENTS
September 16 is our Maple Grove Mennonite Church Annual Meeting. Annual Reports have been distributed in the mailboxes.

November 7 is the date for our 2nd Annual Building Fund Auction. Watch for details.

September 27 the RED / PINK HAT LADIES will meet at Joe & Cathy King’s at 5:30 pm for a meal. Meat and drink is provided; bring a covered dish to share. Men are invited to dust off your hats and join the ladies for an evening of fun.

EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

TEACHERS ARE NEEDED for Sunday School: helper for the kindergarten class and a half-time teacher for the 3-4 year olds through March. Contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) will begin on September 25 with a Welcome Back Luau. Teachers are needed. Contact Trudy Henderson if you can help.

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES is a ladies Bible study held on Wednesdays from 9:15 to 11:15 am. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

MENNONITE PUBLISHING NETWORK is offering workshops on education for all ages and on worship at Souderton Mennonite Church on September 29. See Pastor Steve or www.franconiaconference.org for more information.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE is responding to the drought areas in PA. You can donate funds, hay, corn or corn silage to this cause. Call 717-768-4670 for more information. Farmers who want to donate corn or soybeans or other grains for draught stricken farmers in central PA can do so by delivering it to Hostetter Grain, Weaver’s Toasted Grain, or Risser Grain.

The 6th Annual Food Drive will be held on September 22 at Dutch-Way Market. Volunteers are needed to help collect food. There is a sign-up sheet on the bulletin board. Food donations go to the Octorara School Food Pantry.

PRODUCE JUNCTION is in the foyer. Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

Monday, September 10, 2007

September 9, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, September 9
8:45 am – prayer time
9:30 am – Sunday School
10:30 am – Worship Service “God’s Building” 1 Corinthians 3:9-17 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 noon – Celebration Luncheon
1:00 pm – Activities for Children
2:00 pm – Building Dedication Service
2:00 – 5:00 pm – Open House

Monday, September 10
First Day of Preschool
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball gave at Stauffer Park

Wednesday, September 12
8:00 am – 3:00 pm Sewing Circle
6:30 pm – Mennonite Youth Fellowship (MYF)
7:00 pm – Leadership Team

Thursday, September 13
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise for all
7:45 pm – Women’s Softball game at Stauffer Park

Sunday, September 16
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages (combined youth / adult class with Becky Yoder Boll)
10:30 am – Worship Service – Pastor Ed Glover will speak.
12:00 noon – fellowship dinner (bring a salad or dessert to share)
5:00 pm – Senior’s Ice Cream Social (Family Life Commission)
7:00 pm – Annual Congregational Meeting

September 9, 2007 – Announcements

OOPS! Sorry this was posted late.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rhonda and Brandon Umble on the birth of Grant Jordan Umble on September 4. Ken and Marilyn Umble are the proud grandparents.

MISSIONARY SUPPORT
Everyone is invited to Maple Grove Mini-Golf Night at Village Greens in Strasburg on Friday, September 28 at 7:00 pm. A portion of the ticket sales will go toward Ryan and Bethany Umble’s missionary support fund.

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE is responding to the drought areas in Pennsylvania. Can you donate hay, corn, corn silage or funds? Contact 717-768-4670 or Aldi King from our congregation. 2700 tons of silage has been collected at the King farm to date.

LADIES IN FELLOWSHIP TOGETHER (LIFT) will begin on September 25 with a Welcome Back Luau.

SUNDAY SCHOOL NEEDS
Sunday School teachers are needed. Specifically needed is a helper for the kindergarten class and a half-time teacher for the 3-4 year old class until March. Contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Next Sunday we welcome Becky Yoder Boll and Pastor Ed Glover. Becky will speak to a combined meeting of the adult/youth Sunday School classes in the sanctuary. She will talk about her work with Urban Impact Pittsburgh. The Rev. Dr. Ed Glover, Founder of Global Impact and President of Urban Impact Foundation, will preach. A fellowship meal will follow worship.

GRANDPARENTS DAY
The Family Life Commission will recognize grandparents next Sunday, September 16. “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother …” (Apostle Paul to Timothy, 2 Timothy 1:5) (Sponsored by the Maple Grove Family Life Commission)

THE 6TH ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE will be held at Dutch-Way on September 22. Volunteers are needed to help collect food. Food items will be donated to the Octorara School District Food Bank. (Sponsored by the Maple Grove Evangelism & Service Commission)

ITEMS NEEDED The Sewing Circle is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for MCC. Please place them in the box in the foyer.

A LADIES BIBLE STUDY began on Wednesday September 5 at 9:15 am. The next meeting is September 19. Contact Darlene Groff for more information.

DEDICATION OF CHURCH BUILDING ADDITION
On September 9 we will dedicate our church meeting house. Morning service will be as usual. At noon we will have a congregational meal; please sign up if you will join us for lunch. Children’s activities will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 pm. The building dedication service will take place at 2:00 and open house will follow the service until 5:00 pm.

MAPLE GROVE MENNONITE CHURCH ANNUAL MEETING will be held on Sunday, September 16 at 7:00 pm. All members should attend. Annual reports were distributed on August 26.

HOUSE OF HIS CREATION will hold it’s annual Fundraising Golf Tournament at Moccasin Run Golf Course on Septmeber 14. Contact Michelle at 717-442-4890 or online www.holc.org for more information.

Have you had your Fall tune-up?
Mennonite Publishing Network, in cooperation with local individuals, is offering workshops on education for all ages and worship, at Souderton Mennonite Church on September 29 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. See Pastor Steve or go on-line at franconiaconference.org for more information and registration. Register now!

Sunday, September 2, 2007

September 2, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, September 2
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Workin’ For the Kingdom” Matthew 11:25-30 (Pastor Steve)
6:30 pm – Worship Service (Tim Fritz)

Tuesday, September 4
6:30 pm – Women’s Softball Game at Stauffer Park
7:00 pm – Care Team

Wednesday, September 5
9:15 am – Women’s Bible Study
7:00 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship)
7:00 pm – Christian Education Commission

Thursday, September 6
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise at Church (all welcome)
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Preschool Open House

Friday, September 7
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Preschool Open House

Sunday, September 9
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “God’s Building” 1 Corinthians 3:9-17 (Pastor Steve)
12:00 noon – Luncheon
1:00 – 2:00 pm – Activities for the Children
2:00 pm – Building Dedication
2:00 – 5:00 pm – Open House

September 2, 2007 – Announcements

CHURCH BUILDING DEDICATION
On Sunday, September 9 we will dedicate our meeting house addition.
10:30 am – Worship will focus on “God’s Building”
12:00 noon – Luncheon
1:00 - 2:00 pm – Activities for the Children
2:00 pm – Service of Dedication
2:00 – 5:00 pm – Open House with guided tours and refreshments

BUILDING PROJECT UPDATE
Final details are being completed to prepare for the dedication and open house on September 9. Sunday School Classes began using their new rooms this week. The church office and the basement bathrooms will be painted this week.

PRODUCE JUNCTION
Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

TEACHERS ARE NEEDED for Sunday School: helper for the kindergarten class and a half-time teacher for the 3-4 year olds through March. Contact Denyce Copeland if you can help.

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES
A ladies Bible study will be held on most Wednesdays beginning September 5, from 9:15 to 11:15 am. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

MENNONITE DISASTER SERVICE is responding to the drought areas in PA. You can donate funds, hay, corn or corn silage to this cause. Call 717-768-4670 or talk with Aldi King for more information.

COMING EVENTS
September 16 is our Maple Grove Mennonite Church Annual Meeting. Annual Reports have been distributed in the mailboxes.

September 22 is our Annual Food Drive at Dutch-Way. Food is collected for the Octorara Food Bank.

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) will begin on September 25 with a Welcome Back Luau.

November 7 is the date for our building fund auction. Watch for details.

Monday, August 27, 2007

August 26, 2007 – This Week’s Schedule

Sunday, August 26
8:45 am – Prayer Time
9:30 am – Sunday School classes for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Alive to God” Romans 6:1-11 (Pastor Steve
12:30 pm – Baptism Service and picnic

Wednesday, August 29
6:30 pm – MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) Amazing Race 2007

Thursday, August 30
6:00 am – Men’s Prayer at Church
8:00 am – Prayer and Praise at Church (all welcome)

Sunday, September 2
8:45 am - Prayer
9:30 am – Sunday School for all ages
10:30 am – Worship Service “Workin’ For The Kingdom” Matthew 11:25-30 (Pastor Steve)
6:30 pm – Evening Worship Service

August 26, 2007 – Announcements

CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE WHO WERE BAPTIZED TODAY
Bret Davis
Taylor Fritz
Kacie Hershey
Allison King
Kaitlin King
Kristy King
Lauren King
Lucas King
Collin Nafziger

BUILDING PROJECT UPDATE
Final details are being done to prepare for the dedication and open house on September 9. Sunday School Classes will begin using their new rooms on Sunday, September 2.

BUILDING FUND AUCTION
November 7 is the date for our building fund auction. Watch for details.

PRODUCE JUNCTION
Bring your excess garden produce to share with those in the congregation who do not have gardens. There is a table in the foyer to place the excess blessings from your gardens. Everyone is invited to take what they can use. Share the harvest!

A NEW SCHOOL OF FISH
Check out the “A New School of Fish” display in the foyer. There is a fishbowl with fish that have the names of all our students who are about to go back to school. We are looking for prayer partners for them. So, go fishing and print your name next to the student you pick. You will find the child’s name, address and birthday on the fish. Contact Denyce Copeland if you have any questions.

TEACHERS ARE NEEDED for Sunday School starting this week: helper for the kindergarten class and a half-time teacher for the 3-4 year olds through March. Contact Kim Stoltzfus if you can help.

THE SEWING CIRCLE is collecting hand towels and bars of soap (any size) for Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Please place your contributions in the box in the foyer.

PRECEPTS FOR LADIES
A ladies Bible study will be held on most Wednesdays beginning September 5, from 9:15 to 11:15 am. Contact Darlene Groff if you have any questions.

SUMMER WAS A TIME TO SING IN MAPLE GROVE MENNONITE HISTORY
Our church held a singing in the woods one day every summer from 1933 to 1964. The first year, about 150 gathered to sing hymns and share testimonies under the trees in Kennel’s woods. The next year there were more than 500 in attendance; and the numbers grew until an estimated 7500 people gathered during the summer of 1950. Attendance started to decline and the last singing was held in 1964 with only 1800 in attendance.