Filed under: Jim Lyon - Posts
Believing What “I Believe”
by Jim Lyon, Senior Pastor
Maureen and I are part of a small group, which is, of course, a small part of our larger church family. The group meets every other Sunday evening. We enjoy some refreshments, touch base with each other’s lives, and then dive into a Bible study (or a book grounded in Scripture). Half of the time, the guys break out for the Bible study together in my basement, while the women meet upstairs to cover the same text. The balance of the meetings follows a coed format. In both scenarios, we learn more about God’s Word and each other.
For the last few months, we’ve been studying the New Testament book of Romans, one chapter at a time. Romans covers a lot of ground; it explores some controversial and earthy subjects; it was written 20 centuries ago but speaks as if written for today. Good stuff.
“Thanks” to MPC Volunteers
Volunteers make a difference by contributing their time, energy, and talents to the causes they hold dear and Madison Park Church is dear to many hearts. Volunteering is usually thought of as contributing to help others, but it is as beneficial for the volunteer as it is for the recipient. MPC volunteers find that helping others is a way to gain fulfillment for themselves.
Volunteering takes many forms and is performed by a wide range of people. MPC has 1208 volunteer positions, filled by 800 volunteers, representing over 500 families. Marti Freemen, MPC Volunteer Coordinator, exclaims, “All of our volunteers are young at heart with a passion to serve above and beyond.”
A “Volunteer Appreciation” event, held recently, was a time of giving back a big “thanks” to all MPC volunteers. Tables, beautifully decorated in The Commons, welcomed volunteers to the dessert hour. MPC staff and spouses greeted and served the volunteers, acknowledging the key role they play in the ministry at MPC. Cyndee Bentley, volunteer in the Worship Arts Ministry, expressed, “It was nice to come, relax, and get to know some of the volunteers from other MPC ministries. It was very uplifting to see the wide range of ages of the volunteers. Some were very young and some have earned the right to just sit back and observe, due to many years of service, but have chosen to continue to serve.”
Christian comedian, David Dean, had the group laughing from the time he came on stage in Crossroads Auditorium. Lynn Simpson, MPC volunteer Director of Health Ministry, shared that “I have not laughed so hard in a long time. David Dean was very good and first class. Marti comments, “Where can you go and work like crazy and have so much fun?”
For more information about becoming a volunteer contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
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News and Events – April 29, 2009
What To Do, When You Don’t Know What To Do
Sundays at 9:00am and 10:45am in the Main Auditorium
Confusion is a fact of life, but so is God’s guidance. We often face times when we don’t know what to do. However, as we trust Christ, he will bring clarity to our life and lead us joyfully through the maze. Through June 10, Madison Park Church is embarking on a life-changing 50-day Adventure titled “What to Do, When You Don’t Know What to Do” which explores eight topics to help build trust in Christ during confusing times.
- 50-Day Adventure Journals: The 50-Day Adventure journals, a companion to the Sunday morning teaching series, will enrich your adventure as you explore God’s Word deeper and learn how to apply the Word to everyday living. For most people, participation takes about 10 minutes a day. Download the journal at MadisonParkChurch.org or purchase a copy in The Commons for $2 each.
- 50-Day Adventure Small Groups: New Small Groups are forming for the duration of the 50-Day Adventure. Sign up for a group by contacting Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education at the Church Office. Or to participate in a Small Group during the Wednesday evening service at 6:30pm, simply show-up and you’ll have a chance to join a group.
Men’s Retreat
May 1 and 2 at Lake Placid Conference Center in Hartford City, Indiana
All men are invited to the MPC Men’s Retreat beginning at 5:00pm on Friday through lunch on Saturday. The cost is $45 per person. Contact: Becky Arthur, Administrative Assistant to Senior Pastor.
Baptism In The Lake
Sunday, May 10 following the 10:45am Worship Service
The first 2009 baptism in the lake will be on Mother’s Day. If you would like to be baptized at this outdoor service contact Debbie McCafferty,Administrative Assistant, Pastoral Care.
Annual Bazaar/Auction/Rummage Sale
Saturday, May 16 from 7:00am to 3:00pm
Auction at 10:00am.
Hundreds of items, including home-furnishings, small appliances, baked goods, books, clothing and more will be sold or auctioned at great prices. Proceeds benefit MPC’s ministries. Donations are needed. Charlie Breeze, Auctioneer, will begin the auction at 10:00am.
Touch the World: Rev. J.T. Menifee City-wide Clean-up
Saturday, May 16, 8:30-11:30am
Meet at Sixteenth and Madison Streets (in front of Davis Unique Beauty Salon) for prayer and work location assignments. You don’t have to make a big investment to make a big impression on our city. Simply show up and be ready to clean up our own city and neighborhoods. This is a great day of working with our fellow churches to spruce up our community and give a message hope to our city. Contact: Keith Stork, Outreach and Missions Pastor.
Ministry Happenings
Adult Ministries:
For more information contact, Sarah Trick, Director of Adult Discipleship and Education.
- Boundaries in Marriage: Grow U Class, 6:30pm, Wednesday through June 10, in Room 179. The powerful biblical and relational principles presented in this DVD series will give couples the tools needed to make a good marriage better and save one that’s headed for disaster. Olive Asbury, Instructor.
- Reasons to Believe Class: Sunday at 10:45am in Room 179. This “micro-study” of the basics of Christianity works its way through the essentials of the faith; from God’s character, to the significance of Communion. J.J. and Scott Wilson, Instructors.
- Home Improvement: Grow U Class, Sunday at 10:45am in Room 180. How do such topics as spring cleaning, garage sale, or landscaping relate to your marriage, family and spiritual life? All married and engaged couples are invited to laugh and learn in this four-week spring home improvement series. Contact: Paul and Lori Browning (765) 754-8697.
- Bible For Today: Grow U Class, Wednesdays through June 10 at 6:30pm in Room 175/177. Ever wonder about truth, worship, community, and mission? Bible For Today will explore these core values of Madison Park Church and biblical texts. These core values lead us to Connect, Grow, and Serve. Find out how. David Neidert, Instructor
- Monday Evening Come and Go Prayer: 5:00-8:00pm. The Main Auditorium is open every Monday for prayer, alone or in a group, aloud or silently. Contact: Norma Armogum at (765) 641-3066.
- Congratulations, Graduates!: Madison Park Church extends hearty congratulations to all our graduates. Graduates of higher learning (college, graduate degrees) will be recognized in both services in the Main Auditorium on Sunday, May 3. High School graduates will be recognized on Sunday, May 31. Submit pictures and your future plans to golson@ madisonparkchurch.org by Tuesday, May 19 for publications in the Threads newsletter.
Athletics and Outdoor Ministries
- Softball Season is Nearing: MPC will again be fielding at least one squad for a fast-pitch league. If enough interest garners a second team, another coach will be needed, too. Season starts the week of May 18 with the hope of a few practices and “meet and greets” prior to that date. Contact: Adam Farmer at (317) 442-5731 or ajfarmer@anderson.edu.
- Open Road Motorcyclists Ride: Saturday, May 9 at 11:00am to Hearthstone Restaurant in Metamora. BUG Ride: Tuesday, May 19 leaving at 7:00pm from MPC parking lot to Jimmie’s Dairy Bar in Pendleton. Visit MadisonParkChurch.org for a complete listing of 2009 Open Road rides.
- MPC Bicycling Ministry: Tuesdays at 6:00pm (weather permitting) at the MPC parking lot. Bicyclists of all ages are invited to meet each Tuesday through October and ride from 6:00pm until dark. All skill levels and paces are welcome; no bicyclist will be left behind. Contact: Pete Spoo at (765) 642-8846.
Senior Ministries
- J.O.Y. (Just Older Youth): Thursday, May 21 at Noon in The Commons. J.O.Y. will meet for a luncheon with guest speaker Jeff Matas, Senior Associate Pastor, expressing his sentiments on “I Love Seniors.” All seniors are invited to enjoy the lunch and fellowship. Contact: Esther Crnkovich at (765) 649-3323.
Student Ministries
For more information, contact Gretchen Olson, Junior High Ministries Pastor
End of Year ABS Schedule:
- May 3 – Regular Schedule
- May 10 – Canceled due to Mother’s Day
- May 17 – Last ABS for this school year
IMPACT Junior High
- End of Year Small Group Party— Wednesday May 27
- Save the Date July 17-19 for the Junior High Summer Trip (for grade 5 graduates through grade 7 graduates.)
IGNITE Senior High
- Graduating Seniors: Camping Trip: May 1-3 to Clifty Falls led by John and Liz Hasenmyer
- Senior Recognition at Ignite on Wednesday May 27; in the Main Auditorium on Sunday May 31
- Class of 2009 Baccalaureate: Sunday, May 24, 6:00pm at Reardon Auditorium. Graduating Seniors and parents are invited to this Baccalaureate Worship Celebration with speaker Maurice “Kojak” Fuller, Graduate of Anderson High School and 1993 Indiana “Mr. Basketball.” Sponsored by the Christian Clergy Association of Anderson.
- BigStuff Camp: (for graduating eighth graders through graduating Seniors) June 11-17 in Panama City Beach, Florida.The next payment is due Wednesday, April 29. Contact Rhonda Hollingsworth, Student Ministries Administrative Assistant.
Merge: The last Student Ministries service project for this school year will be Saturday, May 9 from 9:00am to Noon. Meet at Cross Street Center to work in the North Kids Daycare playground. Bring work gloves.
Children’s Ministries
For more information, contact Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor
- Transition Party for Fifth Grade Graduates and Their Parents: Wednesday, May 13, 6:30-7:45pm in Room 176. Come and learn about the Junior High Program, Impact, and meet Junior High Pastor Gretchen Olson and other Impact leaders.
- Easter Eggstravaganza Great Success: A huge thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who helped make the Easter Eggstravaganza a success on April 11! Thank you to the creative planning committee of Sherry Christian, Megan Thompson, Jane Milleman and Laine Wolfe. Over 7000 brightly colored Easter eggs were stuffed and scattered for this wonderful community event. We had approximately 610 children register as they came through our doors of which 80% who do not attend MPC! A special thank you to Mike Meadows for providing free photos of children with the Easter Bunny.
Opportunities to Serve
To find a place to volunteer, contact MartiFreeman, Volunteer Coordinator.
- Clothes/Toy Collection: Children’s clothes(under age 12) and small toys are needed for the Annual Bazaar/Auction/ Rummage Sale. Place items in the box in the Children’s Ministry area through May 10. On the day of the event; the Mayor’s Courtesy van will be transporting persons from the bus terminal to MP throughout the day.
- Annual Bazaar/Auction/Rummage Sale Collection: Donations will be received each Saturday through May 2 at the Scatterfield site, 2604 N. Scatterfield Road, from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Categories for donations include: Business donations, furniture, small machinery (in working condition), jewelry, plants, bake sale, children’s clothing, toys, office items, holiday items, home decor, and much more. All donations are tax deductible, forms will be provided.
Good to Know
- Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast: Friday, May 1,7:00-8:30am at Madison Park Church. Bringing together Madison County leaders and friends. Guest Speaker will be Reverend Robbie Davis, Pastor of the Celebration Church in Columbia, Maryland, and MPC Non-resident Elder. Hosted by Mayor Kris Ockomon and the Christian Clergy Association of Anderson. For more information and reservations contact the Mayor’s Office at (765) 648-6002.
- Dove Harbor Culvers Benefit: Tuesday, May 12 at Culver’s Restaurant. Ten percent of all proceeds will benefit Dove Harbor, a ministry to women in crisis. Eat well and support this outreach ministry of MPC. Contact: Johnna Barnard at Operation Love Ministries.
- Operation Love Food Pantry Benefit: Dan’s Fish Fry, Friday, May 8 from 4:00-7:00pm at the Main Street Church of God Community Building. Adults $8.00; Children $6.00 (ages 6-12); Children ages 5 and under free. Volunteers are needed to set-up, serve and clean-up. Contact: Operation Love Ministries at (765) 644- 2121.
- Operation Love Food Pantry Benefit: By making a $10 donation to Operation Love through our local Meijer store, you will not only support our local food pantry but also increase the percentage of the $100,000 the Meijer chain will contribute to participating food pantries around the country. Contact: Operation Love at (765) 644-2121.
- An Evening with Jay and Richard Harvey: May 8 at 7:00pm at Liberty Christian School Hillcrest Gymnasium. Hilarious comedy mixed with the truth about who we are, who God is, and how this life is supposed to work. Liberty Christian Schools first Event Open House will help put the recess in recession. Contact: Liberty Christian School at (765) 644-7774.
- Mother’s Day Gift: Place your orders for a gift-wrapped Madison Park cookbook. Cookbooks cost $15 each and the gift-wrapping is complimentary. Gifts may be picked up on Sunday May 3 and 10 or from the Church Office. To place orders, contact Marti Freeman, Volunteer Coordinator, at the Church Office.
- Blood Drive: May 16 from 8:30am to Noon at MPC. The MPC Health Ministry will sponsor a blood drive at MPC. Sign up for an appointment at a table in The Commons on Sunday through May 10. Contact: Sonia Smythe at (765) 298-3001.
- Harmony Connection: A new director and members are needed for the Anderson Ladies Barbershop Chorus. Ladies are invited to rehearsals on Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm at MPC. Contact Sharon Holding (765) 284-2166 or Donna Byers (765) 642-2070.
Family News
To submit a threads announcement a birth or death, please contact in Pastoral Care.
Congratulations to:
- Tom and Susan Seal who welcomed a granddaughter, Neviah Katherine on March 6. Proud parents are Robb and Kate.
In Sympathy with:
- Kris Ockomon and family at the loss of his mother, Mary on April 17.
- Nitta Stephenson and family at the loss of her husband, Drake on April 20.
Celebrating the Dedication of:
- Iva Jane Harvey, daughter of Richard and Charity, dedicated on April 19.
Rejoicing in Baptism with:
- Gabby Kramer and Rachel Smith, both baptized on April 12.
- Ryan Gerber and Grace Stottlemyer, both baptized on April 19.
Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and mini-salad bar in The Commons: Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 6:30pm, just before our evening programs. Cost: Adults-$6, Children and college Students (with ID)-$4 (maximum of $22 per family).
- April 29 Roast Pork Loin / Kids’ Option: Grilled Cheese
- May 6 Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Roasted Red Skinned Potatoes Kids’ Option: Chicken Strips & Fries
- May 13 Beef and Noodles / Kids’ Option: Beef and Noodles
Threads 