January 6, 2008 – Announcements

THE FIRST EVER MAPLE GROVE PING PONG TOURNAMENT
After 4 hours with 144 ping pong matches that involved 70 people, playing the best of 3 games … the 2008 Maple Grove Junior Champion is KENT LANTZ. The top female participant was NAT LANTZ who made it to the semi-finals in her bracket. The winner of each adult bracket played in the final four: 4th place – KYLE KING; 3rd place – BRIAN CAMPBELL; 2nd place – ARLIN KENNEL, and …the champion of the First Ever Maple Grove Ping Pong Tournament and winner of the Golden Paddle is JOE LUSBY JR. Joe was also the only player who went undefeated all night.
Thanks to all who participated and/or came to cheer and share in the set-up, preparation, and helped to clean-up.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Based on the story of the wise men, Epiphany is a Sunday to explore the wisdom of God coming into our world through the birth of Jesus the Christ. It is a day to spin out the implications of Jesus’ incarnation for Christians and for the whole world. As the apostle Paul states, “So here I am, preaching and writing about things that are way over my head, the inexhaustible riches and generosity of Christ” (Ephesians 3:8 in Eugene H. Peterson, The Message, Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1995). [From today’s Adult Bible Study lesson, page 36]

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) Suggestion: Invite a friend to go with you to visit a nursing home; read scripture and pray with the people you visit.

UP-DATE FROM THE LEADERSHIP TEAM
The Leadership Team (Elders and Pastor) continues to work to provide spiritual vision, oversight and direction for the congregation. The issues raised from our congregational consultation continue to be addressed and a renewed vision is being developed. A recent meeting with consultant Marcus Smucker and our Conference Minister Merv Stoltzfus has helped define our process. In February the Leadership Team has scheduled a retreat to pray and address the roles of pastors, elders and how they relate to the congregation. A congregational meeting will be held at a later date as a public forum for your questions and concerns. Please contact the pastor or one of the elders if you have any questions.


EDUCATION AND INSPIRATION OPPORTUNITIES

LIFT (Ladies In Fellowship Together) is a program for mothers of young children. LIFT meets on Tuesday mornings from 9:15 to 11:00. Nursery care and preschool classes are provided. This week Cathy King will lead a Bible Study.

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

The MYF Boy’s Camp Out is Saturday and Sunday, Jan 5 & 6. Contact the youth leaders for more information.

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

COMING EVENTS (Mark your calendars)

“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.

The Annual Maple Grove Talent Night will be held on Wednesday, February 6. Sign up your “act” by Feb 3.

“Weekend to Remember” is a weekend marriage conference that teaches God’s design for marriage and family. It will be held in Hershey on February 15-17. Registration materials are available in the foyer or from a member of the Family Life Commission.

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.