(Updated Friday, December 27)
YOUTH DEPARTMENT GOOD NEWS: We are blessed to share that Patti Laninga, our Interim Youth Ministry Coordinator, has agreed to stay on for the second semester to provide continuity for our youth programs. During this time, we will continue reviewing our needs as a church so that we can hire a permanent Youth Ministry Coordinator who can help us live into a renewed vision for youth ministry at CMC. In addition, Emma de Vries has come on board to assist Patti with our high school program. We are grateful to both Patti and Emma for their faithfulness to our students in this time of transition.
YOUTH MINISTRY TOWN HALL MEETING UPDATE: Last Sunday, Dec. 22, we had a wonderful, hope-filled time learning about our current youth ministry and visions for the future. If you were unable to attend but would like to view the Town Hall, please contact Doris for a link to the presentation by Patti Laninga and Pastor Suzanne Hart.
USHERS NEEDED: Would you be willing to serve as an usher on Sunday mornings and/or at other events? Contact Bud Timmer (budtimmer@gmail.com).
MEAL & MISSION STATEMENT WORKSHOP PACKETS: If you were unable to attend the mission statement workshop, there are leftover take-home information packets that you may pick up at Kiosk 1 that will help you get up to speed with some of the conversations about our future that are currently taking place. Many who attended the workshop felt encouraged about the future of CMC. Please continue to pray for our church!
RETIREMENT WISHES FOR STAFF MEMBER MARY DEBLAAY: After 21+ years as a faithful staff member here at CMC, Mary’s last day as the Assistant Worship Arts Director will be Tuesday, Dec. 31. We are so thankful for the ways she’s blessed our congregation. May God bless her nichly as she enters this new chapter of her life.
GIVING ENVELOPES FOR 2025 are available on a table by Entrance B. If you do not see your name or would like envelopes for 2025, please contact Beth Smith.
ARE YOU GRIEVING OVER THE LOSS OF SOMEONE CLOSE TO YOU? In a GriefShare group, you’ll find a warm and caring environment offering you support and encouragement as you journey through your grief. A new GriefShare group begins next week – meeting Mondays, Jan. 6-March 31, 6:30-8:30pm (Room 169). Brochures are available at the Care Kiosk. For more information or to sign up, contact Lori. You may just show up!
JESUS ENCOUNTERS: All are invited to come and be encouraged as each week a personal story of an encounter with Jesus is shared on Sundays, beginning Jan. 5, 10:45-11:45am in the Prayer Room. Facilitated by Scott Cramer. For more information or to schedule a time to share, contact Scott (cramer @charter.net or 616-836-3390).
THE CHOSEN – SEASON ONE, WEEKLY WATCH PARTY: Wednesdays, Jan. 15-March 12, 6-7:30pm. This historical drama is based on the life of Jesus, sharing an authentic and intimate look at Jesus’ revolutionary life and teachings. After each episode there will be an informal time of discussion led by Pastor Suzanne. Sign up at the Discipleship Kiosk.
THE PRACTICING THE WAY COURSE will help you follow the practices and rhythms Jesus and his earliest followers lived by. Join us as we grow in living as an apprentice of Jesus: Sundays, Jan. 12-March 2, 10:45am. Contact Lynn.
THE MARRIAGE COURSE is for all couples looking to invest in building a better, stronger marriage. Wednesdays, Jan. 8-Feb. 19, 6-7:30pm, Room 167. Learn practical tools to deepen your connection and keep the spark alive. Each week there will also be time for one-on-one conversations as a couple. Led by Rick and Becca Derberger. Sign up with Lynn.
WEDNESDAY WOW STUDIES (9-11am / Jan. 8-March 26): “Esther: Daring Faith for Such a Time as This” in Room 167. “Thrive: Living Faithfully in Difficult Times” in Room 166. Sign up at the Discipleship Kiosk or contact Lori.
PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE: For the month of December we are collecting bar soap, feminine hygiene products, and toothpaste for the food pantry. Bring items to the Collection Center in the Mixing Area.
This page is a full resource of all the announcements listed in the bulletin and e-news so you don’t miss a thing! You may receive more information regarding specific classes pertaining to children, youth & adults if you go to their respective web pages.