The crisp fall air is upon us, and with it comes a new season and a new teaching series starting this Sunday!
This week we turn from the Minor Prophets to the Apostle Paul in order to learn how he changed from being a Jesus hater to the most radical of Jesus followers. Let's jump in by asking, "What were the key ingredients that led to Paul's radical transformation?
Our service begins at 10:00 AM, and we invite you to stay afterward for some quality fellowship time.
Note from Pastor Eric Sorenson
Giving Our Offerings
In the form of a question, the writer of Psalm 116 reflects on all he owes the Lord for God's enduring mercy: "What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?" Two verses later, he answers his own inquiry: "I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people" (Psalm 116:12, 14).
For thousands of years, it has been the normal practice of the people of God to bring their tithes and offerings and present them to God during public worship. That's because it has always been understood that presenting our financial offerings is an act of self-dedication and a necessary step of discipleship. But as you remember, something dark covered the earth beginning early in 2020, something eventually called COVID. Early in the pandemic, just about every church scrambled to figure out how to receive contributions electronically. Even when churches dared to re-gather, almost all refrained from physically passing the plate, lest the virus spread. But that was then, thank God, and this is now.
Beginning this Sunday, we will set aside some moments in our worship gathering to present our tithes and offerings as an act of devotion to our loving Savior. It's true that many of us find giving online to be convenient and easy, so online giving will continue to be the choice of many. As has always been the case, no one should feel compelled or pressuredto "put something in the plate" as you pass it along. If you choose to give online, consider the act of passing the plate a reminder of God's call to give up everything to follow Jesus, including our precious money. Others, however, may choose to place their offering in the plate as a physical act of expressing their thanks to God. Either way, each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9).
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. For this first week, the offering will take place during the announcements, and our Connections Pastor, Brandon, will guide the logistics. Thank you to everyone who faithfully supports the mission and ministry of Community Covenant Church.
LIFE AT COMMUNITY COVENANT
?? Fall Fest 2024 is Almost Here! ??
Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of the year! Join us on Saturday, October 26th for our annual Fall Fest, a day filled with laughter, community, and fun for all ages! We'll have bounce houses, hay rides, carnival games, and of course, plenty of candy to share. It's the perfect opportunity to connect with friends, meet new neighbors, and celebrate the beauty of the season together.
Each year, we welcome around 500 people from our community for an afternoon of joy and fellowship, and this year, we're expecting it to be bigger and better than ever. Whether you're young or young at heart, there will be something for everyone!
? Want to be a part of making Fall Fest amazing? ?
We're looking for passionate volunteers to help with activities and welcome our guests! Whether you love interacting with kids, enjoy setting up games, or simply want to serve in any way you can, there's a spot for you!
We're also collecting donations of candy to make sure everyone goes home with a treat. Feel free to drop off your candy donations in the bin at our welcome table starting this Sunday.
You can sign up to volunteer by clicking the link below or at the welcome table, or simply ask one of our friendly staff members. Let's come together to make this Fall Fest a memorable time for all! ??
Coffee + Community = The Perfect Sunday! After church this Sunday, join us for a warm and welcoming coffee fellowship on the patio. It's a great chance to chat, laugh, and catch up with friends over some delicious treats! ?
? This week, it's YOUR turn to bring the goodies! ? If it's your scheduled week, we'd love for you to bring something yummy to share. Just drop off your plated, ready-to-serve treats in the Fireside Room before worship. Don't worry-if this week doesn't work, feel free to bring something on another Sunday!
Monthly Schedule
First Sunday Last Name A Thru F Group #1
Second Sunday Last Name G Thru M Group #2
Third Sunday Last Name N Thru S Group #3
Fourth Sunday Last Name T Thru Z Group #4
Fifth Sunday Fellowship Coordinator Team
Let's come together, share some good food, and enjoy the gift of fellowship. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table! ?☕
? ISM Student Ministry: Roundabout - Week One ?
Get ready for an exciting new series kicking off this week in ISM Student Ministry! Starting next Wednesday, we'll dive into a four-week journey called "Roundabout: Navigating Life's Reroutes." This series is all about tackling one of life's biggest questions: "How does following Jesus help me navigate and embrace the changes I face?"
Change is everywhere-from school to friendships, family, and even within ourselves. It can feel overwhelming, but it's also a key part of growing up and discovering who God has made us to be. Over the next four weeks, we're going to explore what it looks like to trust Jesus through those twists and turns and find purpose even in the unexpected.
Why this series matters: In a world that's constantly shifting, students are dealing with big changes every day-whether it's adjusting to new relationships, handling academic pressures, or figuring out their identity. Through Roundabout, we'll create space to have real, honest conversations about these challenges and discover together how God is present in every moment of change.
Don't miss out! Join us next Wednesday from 6:30-8:15 PM for the first week of this series. There will be fun games, inspiring discussion, and a chance to connect with friends-old and new! Plus, we'll have some snacks to keep the energy high. ?
Whether you're feeling lost in the roundabouts of life or just looking for a place to grow deeper in your faith, this is the perfect space for you. Let's navigate the road ahead-together!
? Life Groups Are Kicking Off This Week! ?
Life Groups are back and better than ever! These aren't just any weekly meetings-they're where life happens. Whether you're looking for a place to laugh, grow, dive deeper into God's Word, or simply connect with others who get what you're going through, Life Groups are the perfect spot.
Think of it like this: Life Groups are where we share our stories, support each other through the ups and downs, and cheer each other on as we all try to love God, follow Jesus, and serve others. It's more than a group; it's a place where friendships are formed, faith grows, and community comes alive. ?
Ready to jump in? Find Alicia or Brian Larson-they're your go-to guides for getting plugged in. Whether you're brand new or looking for a fresh group to join, they'll help you find the perfect fit and answer any questions you have!
Let's do life together, build each other up, and walk this faith journey hand in hand! ?
Calling All Women!
Women's Bible study will begin on September 16 and 18 and we hope you will join us! We'll meet in the Media Room at the church on Monday nights at 6:30 or Wednesday mornings at 10 AM. To sign up, visit the welcome table before or after the service.
Questions? Contact Laura (laura.lynn.robertson@gmail.com) or Karin (koalakarin@gmail.com)
Feeling overwhelmed? Need a little extra support? We're here for you! Our amazing prayer team is ready and waiting to lift you up. Whether you're going through something big or just need some encouragement, we believe in the power of prayer and we're excited to stand with you in faith.
Submitting your request is super easy-just head to our website and use the Prayer Request tool. You can choose whether to share it with our whole community or keep it private for just our prayer team. Either way, know that your request will be handled with love, care, and a whole lot of compassion.
Let's connect through the power of prayer! You don't have to walk this journey alone. ?
Need some extra encouragement or a moment to connect with God after the service? We've got you covered! Every Sunday, our awesome prayer team will be available after worship to pray with you and for you. Whether it's something big or small, just approach one of our friendly team members after the service, and they'll step aside with you for a personal and heartfelt prayer.
Stay Connected-Sign Up for Prayer Updates! ✉️
Want to be part of something bigger? Join our Prayer Chain Email to stay in the loop! You'll get updates as prayer needs come in, and you can lift others up in prayer throughout the week. It's an easy way to stay connected and make a difference!
If you'd like to receive these updates and be part of our prayer chain, please click here to sign up.
