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Maurice Moments

Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

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Page 1: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Maurice Moments

Page 2: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Our members who are celebrating an "Over 80” birthday this month:

Hospitalizations… We pray for our church family who have been hospitalized or have health concerns:

Chris Budden, Denny Van Ommeren, Val Dykstra, Arlin Bylsma, Miranda Maassen, Ken Budden,

Edna Vander Broek, Isaac Holtrop, Asaiah Smit, Kale Smit, Joyce Groen, Marie Maassen, Isaac Schmidt,

and Ruth Heidebrink

Sympathy…

We extend our sympathy to Nov Van Regenmorter & Mick Van Regenmorter and their families in the passing of their mother, Gert Huisman.

Congregation Thank You Notes

It was so nice to receive all the cards on our birthdays. We are so happy to be part of the family of

God. Thanks a lot! - Norm & Marge Van Ommeren

Thanks for all the prayers, visits, and delicious food that everyone brought. We were so blessed and

touched by the outpouring of love and support. - Perry & Val Dykstra

MRC Family, we cannot thank you enough for all the love and support you have shown us since the

birth of our daughter, Gracelyn. We appreciate all the homemade gifts and delicious foods we

received. Most of all we appreciate the prayers said for Gracelyn when she was in the NICU. We are so

grateful to be apart of such an amazing church family! - Taylor, Jess and Gracelyn Schuetz

Missions & Partners—Thank You Notes

Dear MRC Family—Thank you so much for your generous support. Erin & I are seeing some of the fruit

that God is producing at UNI through your generosity. Nate, Christian, Zac, Corben, Abby, Carly, and

Annie are all freshmen in Erin’s and my Bible studies who either recently received Christ or are seriously

considering it! We thank God for his abundant provision through you! God bless. - Jonathan & Erin Haverdink

Dear Congregation of MRC—We praise God for the 2017-2018 Legacy Plan gift of $4,379 Sioux Center

Christian has received from your congregation for the last school year. We are so very grateful for your

partnership as it helps fulfill our vision that every child is treasured, trained, and transformed as they

learn and live God’s story. Thank you! - Josh Bowar and the SCCS family

Dear MRC—Our hearts are full of gratitude as you continue to pour your love into the survivors; both

women & children, of intimate partner violence. Your generosity of $390 translates into at least 18-20

Bibles for children & women or it translates into at least a year of once a month community meals, or it

translates into purchasing a few more items to add to the care bundles new guests receive upon their

arrival. Once again, thank you for your prayers and supporting Whispers of Love, Hope, and Joy Inc.

financially! - Deb Rensink & the board members We apologize if we inadvertently missed anyone

Marlin Wichers

3339 450th St.

Orange City, IA 51041

*Marlin will celebrate his 91st birthday on Dec. 12

Page 3: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Poinsettias Given in Memory Thank you to everyone who purchased a poinsettia to help decorate

our sanctuary for Christmas. What a beautiful way to remember your

loved ones! The cost is $12 and can be paid at the church office.

Please pay before December 24. Your poinsettias may be picked up

after the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Name: In loving memory of:

Rog & Charlene Oolman Helen Oolman & Lee Palsma

Gary & Dawn De Weerd Gilbert De Weerd & De Weerd sisters

Loren & Shellie Vander Schaaf Shellie’s parents

Lee & Sharon Plendl Howard & Edith Van Roekel; Ed & Lois Plendl

Eileen Wichers & family Allen Wichers

Dykstra Family Wendy & parents

Bill & Judy Vlietstra Henry & Wilma Engeltjes; Bill & Grace Vlietstra

Edith Kuiken & family Dave Kuiken

Bonnie Wolf John Vander Stelt

Lloyd & Marcia Cleveringa Ed & Wilmina Cleveringa; John Maassen

Wanda Kuiken family Bud & sons, Bruce, Brian, & Tim; Elwin Herbst

Lance & Joni Roorda family John Van Middendorp

Bill Mulder Imo Mulder

Krogman Family Mert Vander Broek

Tim & Molly Van Engen Thomas Midland

Mike & Laura Vander Stelt Our grandparents

Wilma Vander Stelt John & our parents

Rob, Wendi, & Joyce Groen Don Groen

Van Peursem family Marion Van Peursem

Brenda Herbst Elwin Herbst; Pat Fedders & Bud Kuiken

Life Groups On The Move

MRC Life Groups are a crucial component to life at MRC, where we

can be known and cared for, grow in faith, serve others, and have fun living

life together.

Lots of people at MRC are enjoying the fruits of that Life Group purpose

statement. In 2017, MRC had 12 Life Groups with 117 people involved. In 2018,

there are 25 Life Groups with 216 people involved.

Here is what some Life Group people are saying: “I like my Life Group because I am

getting to know new friends.” “I like my Life Group because my group has been praying for

me and encouraging me while I am going through a tough time.” “It felt good to draw an

encouragement card and send it to a friend in need.” “We have some goofy people in our

group, and they are fun to be around.”

By mid January the kick-off study for Life Groups will be completed and most of the

groups will begin a new study. That would be a great time for many of you who would now

like to become part of a Life Group to join a group. Stay tuned for more details about how

you could join a group at that time.

Page 4: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Good News Circle

The past several years, Good News Circle has

taken our November meeting to do a service

project. We make fleece tie blankets that we

donate to area agencies to hand out at their

discretion. Fleece blankets have been delivered

to The Bridge, Hope Food Pantry and The Family

Crisis Center.

The Dykstra Family

In September our family sold our home in Brandon, SD and left life as we knew it to join YWAM.

This organization has training campus designed to equip and send out people into all nations to

spread the gospel through specific vocations.

We have been in training in Kona, HI ever since and are preparing to leave for Jinga, Uganda,

Africa where our family will live for 2 months.

We will volunteer our time to build homes, serve the homeless, care for the orphans, lead worship

services, assist in the schools, among other things.

We thank you for your help in our Africa expenses! For further information you can contact us via

Facebook.

“Dear friends, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers, even though

they are strangers to you….”

~ 3 John 1:5

Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra

(graduates of MOC and NWC)

Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9)

There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux Center Pizza

Ranch on December 3 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Page 5: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Come Worship & Serve at the Refuge!

The Refuge worship venue was started to open up worship

space in the sanctuary for visitors and those seeking MRC as

their church home. The Refuge is a second space to worship

while maintaining one morning service at MRC.

If you haven’t experienced worship at the Refuge, come and join us for a

Sunday this month. Some families find this venue to be a very welcoming

and family friendly environment.

Even though there has been a team that has initially lead and served in the

Refuge for the first few months, we are also looking for families or Life Groups

to help with greeting, serving, cleaning up in this worship space. If this is a

place you would be willing to serve at MRC please contact Greg Haverdink

or Bob Cleveringa.

Winter Work Project 2019 This year’s work project will be in Labelle, Florida where they had

hurricane Irma damage from this past year. It will be during the last week in

February from the 15th to the 23rd. We will be working with World Renew and

it will be headed up by Rob and Sharon Schelling. What I do know at this

time is that it will be anything from new construction to demolition.

But what we do need is volunteers who will be willing to help! No skills

required, just the willingness to lend a hand! So if you are interested there is a

sign-up sheet at the information center or you can contact me (Jerry

Vermeer) if you have any questions. We would like to get a rough idea on

how many are going as soon as possible, hopefully right around the first of

the year, so they know how many to figure on at their end in Florida. Watch

your bulletin for more info.

Thank you!

The Mission Committee

Page 6: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Strings for the King - “A Christmas Celebration”

Sunday, December 16

Rehearsals: Please bring your wire music stand from home for rehearsals

Sunday, December 2: 8:45-9:15 am

Sunday, December 9: 8:45-9:15 am

Sunday, December 16: 8:40 am - Tune in the Fellowship Hall

8:50 am - Run through our song in the sanctuary

Thank you for using your gifts of music to honor God and to bless

our congregation!

Laura Haverdink

737-4712

Page 7: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Newsletter items due Dec. 20

December Memory Verse

Prayer Room—December

Date

Dec. 2 Sue De Kok

Dec. 9 Jill Muilenburg

Dec. 16 Dan DeVries

Dec. 23 Laura Haverdink

Dec. 30 Jerry Vermeer

December Welcome Schedule

Main door - Judy Vlietstra

Gym door - Dan DeVries

NURSERY If anyone would like to be added to the Nursery

Volunteer list, please contact Lisa Smit for more

information. Thanks.

Volunteers

Dec. 2 Karen Leusink, Emily Maassen,

Morgan Feenstra

Dec. 9 Gary & Cherie Van Donkelaar & family

Dec. 16 Barb Van Horn, Cheryl Van Wyk,

Brooke Venema

Dec. 23 Dan & Tonya Venema, Brittini Oolman

Dec. 30 Jeff & Sara Wielenga, Collin Van Donkelaar

VOLUNTEERING

AT MRC

Wednesday Night Meals

December 5 - Taverns, tater tots, strawberry

pretzel salad, chocolate chip cookie

December 13 - Brats or hotdogs on a bun, chips,

baked beans, fruit, pumpkin bar or ice cream bar

Come for a great time of food, fun, and fellowship!

Recycled Teenagers Christmas Party

The Recycled Teenagers Christmas Party

will be at the Triple Box on Friday,

December 14, beginning at 6:15 pm

with a social time. Following the meal,

we will play games.

If anyone would like to join, contact

Evonne Wielenga!

[email protected] | 567-4235

Page 8: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

“See what great love the Father has

lavished on us, that we should be

called children of God! And that is

what we are!”

The Christmas Program is at 5:00 on December 16. Children are asked to meet in

their singing rooms (1st-4th meet in the multipurpose room, 3 year olds through

kindergarten meet in room 9) by 4:45.

After the program the children will be excused to go to their Sunday school rooms

to receive a bag of peanuts and candy. If your child has any allergies, please

contact Bonnie Wolf by December 12. Thank you!

December is the month we are giving our Pioneer Club volunteers a

break! There will be NO Pioneer Club in December. It will resume on

January 9.

However, kids in grades 1st-5th will have practice for the Christmas

program on December 5 and 12. Practice will be from 6:30-7:30

both nights. Please come for the meal ministry followed by program practice!

December 5 - Students in grades 1st-4th meet in the multipurpose room; 5th

graders meet in the sanctuary

December 12 - All students 1st-5th will meet in the sanctuary

Note: Kids ages 3 years old through kindergarten do NOT need to come on

Wednesday evenings for practice!

NEEDED: Parents of kids in grades 1st-5th willing to help “supervise” on Wednesday nights

December 5 and 12.

5th grade parents are needed to help with lines

Other parents are need to help with singing

Please contact Bonnie Wolf if you are willing to help!

Strong men, we need you! We are looking for a few men to help set up and

take down risers for the Christmas program. We would need you right after

church on December 9 and 16 and on Wednesday night, December 12.

Please contact Bonnie Wolf if you are willing to help!

Page 9: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Tradition. Many people love this word, then there are others who have more of the “out

with the old, in with the new” thought process.

I looked up the word tradition and this was the definition I found:

The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, or the

fact of being passed on in this way

I can’t say that handing out candy bags to the children is a belief, but it is something that

has been passed down through many generations here at MRC! I received a check in the

mail from someone that grew up in the Maurice Church and in her note she wrote: “I have

the most wonderful memories of Maurice Church Christmas pageants & programs.

It was such a treat to get that bag of goodies. A fond memory, I am so glad you are

keeping that tradition alive! Please accept this donation to help pay for bags of goodies

this year!” She attended church here 45+ years ago and has a very special place in her

heart for MRC! It was so great to hear how MRC continues to touch people in special

ways.

Did you grow up in this church and remember getting the bag of peanuts & chocolates?

Or what traditions do you remember as a child? Share with your kids what was special to

you! Perhaps you could start a tradition of your own!

If you would like to donate towards the Christmas candy and peanuts, please mark your

offering “Christmas Candy” on December 2 or bring it to the church office or Bonnie’s

office. Thank you for your help!

REMINDER: Children & Worship meets December 9 during the service. This is a wonderful

time for 3 and 4 year old children to worship at their level. This is not a play time, but a time

to learn about worship! All 3 and 4 year old students are welcome to attend. They will be

dismissed during the offering to go to Room 2. Parents, the leaders and helpers in Children

& Worship will take your child directly to Sunday School so you may pick them up after

Sunday School. Visitors are always welcome!

**There will not be Children & Worship on December 23

ON THE CALENDAR:

December 2 - Pioneer Club Planning Meeting and Appreciation Meal

December 16 - 5:00 PM Sunday School Christmas Program

NO Sunday School December 23 and 30

Page 10: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of

anything we have done but because of his own purpose and

grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the

beginning of time.”

- 2 Timothy 1:9

REMINDER: There will be no Jr. GAP on December 26 or January 2 for Christmas break. We will start back

up on Wednesday, January 9 at 6:20-7:30 pm in The Refuge

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Jr. GAP Students NEEDED for Life Traveling Nativity - We are in need of some students to help with

acting for Traveling Nativity on December 8 & 9. Please contact Jon Eveland by December 5 for

more information if your Jr. GAPper is interested. By helping, you will receive funds towards

Power Connection 2019 cost.

Jr. GAP Movie Night - Wednesday, December 5 - For Jr. GAP on December 5, we will

be enjoying some popcorn and watching the Christian film, I Can Only Imagine.

The movie will begin at 6:20 pm and will conclude shortly after 8 pm. Parents, you are

invited to join us as well. Bring along a pillow and blanket if you would like! Below is a

description of the movie:

Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Bart Millard suffers physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his

father, Arthur. When Arthur becomes terminally ill, he finds redemption by embracing his faith and

rediscovering his love for his son. Years later, Bart’s troubled childhood and mended relationship with his

dad inspires him to write the hit song “I Can Only Imagine” as singer of the Christian band MercyMe.

(‘I Can Only Imagine’ has been given the Dove Seal of Approval for All Ages)

Wednesday Night Refuge Worship - Wednesday, December 12 - Join us as we worship with our

brothers and sisters in Christ! Practice will be on Sunday, December 9 at 10:45 and on

Wednesday, December 12 at 5:15 pm.

Jr. GAP Christmas Party - Wednesday, December 19 at 6:20-7:30 - Christmas is right

around the corner! We are going to celebrate Christmas in Jr. GAP on Wednesday,

December 19. There will not be a Wednesday night meal in the Family Life Center,

however, we will have plenty of food provided during Jr. GAP for supper. Also, we

are challenging Jr. GAPpers to wear their favorite pajamas for the evening (please

make sure that they are appropriate to be worn in public).

.

Jr. GAP December Birthdays:

Mitchell Baartman - Dec. 7

SCHEDULE: Dec. 5 - Movie Night - I Can Only Imagine (2018)

Dec. 12 - The Incarnation by Dana Van Ostrand

*Refuge Worship Night - 7:25-7:55 pm

Dec. 19 - CHRISTMAS PARTY

LUNCH: Lunch is 2 dozen cookies/bars & 2 two

liters of pop/juice

Dec. 5 - Jacob H, Brady VG, Haley H, Kelsey O

Dec. 12 - Jordan VDH, Carson J, Karter H, Alex VH

Dec. 19 - Provided

DATES TO REMEMBER:

Middle School Retreat 2019 - Hidden Acres - Dayton, IA - April 5-7

Power Connection 2019 - Minneapolis, MN - July 23-28

Page 11: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of

anything we have done but because of his own purpose and

grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the

beginning of time.

- 2 Timothy 1:9

REMINDER: There will be no Sr. High on December 26 or January 2 for Christmas break. We will start back

up on Wednesday, January 9 at 7:50-9:00 pm in the Sr. High Youth Room

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Wednesday Night Refuge Worship - Wednesday, December 12 - Join us as we worship with our brothers and sisters in

Christ! Practice will be on Sunday, December 9 at 10:45 and on Wednesday, December 12 at 5:15 pm.

Sr. High Christmas Party - Wednesday, December 19 at 7:50-9:00 pm - Christmas is right around the corner!

We are going to celebrate Christmas in Jr. GAP on Wednesday, December 19. There will not be a

Wednesday night meal in the Family Life Center, however, we will have plenty of food provided during Sr.

High for supper. Also, we are challenging Sr. Highers to wear their favorite pajamas for the evening

(please make sure that they are appropriate to be worn in public).

Sr. High Summer “International” Mission Trip – July 13-20 – Eaglecrest Alaska Missions

We are excited to announce that we will be partnering with Eaglecrest Alaska Missions (Sutton,

Alaska) for our summer mission trip (July 13-20). Though it is not international per se, it is a great

distance away, and not part of the lower 48 states – and there is great need in the Sutton

community for us to come, serve those in need and experience the love of Christ in a much

different culture than our own! We will be serving by participating in light construction, relationally with families in need,

winterizing homes, chopping wood, potentially helping with a VBS and Summer Day Camp, and perhaps other needs that arise.

So far, we have about 30 students who are interested in going, which is awesome! The cost for the trip has not yet been

determined, as we await word on the NEXT Gen RCA Scholarship, fundraisers, and airfare costs.

Experiencing God at TEC - “I originally went to TEC because a friend asked me to go. I was a little hesitant because I didn’t think I

had time for it, and not knowing anything about it was a little scary for me. TEC was not like anything I had imagined, and it

completely surprised me how quickly I bonded with others and became closer to God. It was such an amazing and emotional

weekend surrounded by people who genuinely loved and cared for me. It is hard to believe how much one weekend impacted

me, but I don’t think my life will ever be quite the same after TEC. It was an experience I will never forget, and I cannot wait to

work at TEC in the future.” - Edyn Dekkers

SCHEDULE: Dec. 5 - Traveling Nativity Prep/Set up (we will begin at

6:30, so if you can arrive early, that would be helpful)

Dec. 12 - The Incarnation by Dana Van Ostrand

Dec. 19 - CHRISTMAS PARTY

LUNCH: Lunch is 2 dozen cookies/bars & 2 two

liters of pop/juice

Dec. 5 - Katie P, AJ S, Angel VZ, Christa VD

Dec. 12 - Caleb S, Hanah VB, Jacie VW, Brandon VS

Dec. 19 - Provided

Sr. High December Birthdays:

Brittini Oolman - Dec. 1 Sierra Borchers - Dec. 2

Tayce Krogman - Dec. 15 Angel Vander Zwaag - Dec. 20

Caleb Schrock - Dec. 22 Lexi Vander Zwaag - Dec. 27

Hope Vander Zwaag - Dec. 29

DATES TO REMEMBER:

Sweetheart Banquet - Thursday, Feb. 7

Easter Pancake Breakfast - Sun., April 21

Live Traveling Nativity - December 8-9 - Sr. High will again be sharing the story of the birth of

Jesus! This event is very special for many in NW Iowa, and many look forward to attending.

For Sr. High, On Wednesday, December 5, we will be prepping for Traveling Nativity. We are

in need of Sr. High students to fill acting slots on both nights. We are also requesting/requiring

that: Every student please bring 2 gallons of apple cider|Every parent(s) of Sr. High students

help out with either Saturday or Sunday nights (please sign up by the info booth or call Jon by Dec. 2) | All students stay until

clean up is completely done for both nights. Please remember: Outside set up will be on Dec. 1 at 1:00 PM | Ask off of work for

December 8 & 9 | Be in the Youth Room by 4 PM

Page 12: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Moments in Missions The special offering for the month of December is:

RCA’s partner for relief & development World Renew

“Uzima” Christmas Offering (please mark your check/envelope with “Special” & place in the plate with your offering)

For advent this year, Pastor Ross and Bonnie are going to challenge the kids, and MRC to

give toward World Renew’s “Uzima” gifts by purchasing a different animal each week for

families around the world. Uzima is a Swahili word that means “full of life.” These gifts will be

a way that we can partner with World Renew in giving Uzima — abundant life — to some-

one who is hungry, poor, and oppressed. It is an opportunity for God to turn everyday events

into miracles like enough food, fruitful work, good health, and community service. A Uzima

gift may be the powerful opportunity someone needs to begin to experience the fullness of

life that God intends! Uzima includes compassionately serving those in need, empowering,

equipping, and encouraging others to make a commitment to God’s work of wholeness

and wellness in their own lives. With each animal that is purchased, an ornament will be

hung on our Christmas tree, and each will symbolize life given to help children and families

around the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to share the share the joy of abundant life the

Christmas.

Uzima!

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Have you ever thought about how giving started at the first

Christmas? Everyone had something to give. When Mary submitted to God’s plan, she gave her body to be the first

home of the incarnated Savior (Luke 1:30-38). Not only that, she

surrendered her good reputation to fulfill the Lord’s calling for her life.

Joseph offered his love and protection to Mary and the child who

was not his own (Matt. 1:18-25). An angel gave an announcement

of the Messiah’s birth to some lowly shepherds watching their flocks

at night. A heavenly host of angels offered praise and glory to

God. The shepherds shared the first personal testimony about the

Messiah. The wise men relinquished the comfort of home to seek the

newborn King & give Him gifts worthy of royalty (Matt. 2:1-11).

At first glance, these gifts may seem to pertain only to the first Christmas, but they each

have application for us today. Look at this list again. What gifts could you give to Christ

today? And how about gifts to those around you? Who needs your protection, love,

time, or perhaps the good news of salvation in Christ?

As is our tradition, this holiday season at MRC we are offering several

opportunities to help others by giving.

Through the Prison Ministries Angel tree, you can purchase gifts that

would benefit children who have a parent that is incarcerated. These

gifts suggestions are hung on the tree and will be delivered to the

homes of the families affected. You can give through your gift or by

volunteering to deliver after all the gifts are collected.

Through donating to The ATLAS Christmas Store you can

help stock the Christmas store that benefits financially

challenged families and the ATLAS office during the

holiday season.

ATLAS Orange City Area is one of MRC’s mission partners who helps those who are

struggling, wanting to grow, or seeking a mentor. Together they work through a helping

process by walking alongside and supporting those who are hurting. At Christmas,

people and families are welcome to shop and purchase new items at greatly reduced

prices, creating an experience of dignity, respect, and stewardship for all involved:

customers, donors, and volunteers. Items are suggestions for store inventory, but if you

have something you would like to donate that would make a good gift this can be

donated as well.

These opportunities to give (Christmas store items) will be available starting Sunday,

November 25, and due back Sunday, December 2. If you would like to volunteer at the

store on December 9, Saturday, or have questions contact La Donna De Vries.

We invite you to seek opportunities to give… through the Atlas Christmas Store,

the Prison Ministry Angel try or your own giving opportunity

Page 14: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” 1 Thess. 5:16-18

Page 15: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s

name was Mary. — Luke 1:26-27

What if Joseph and Mary had shown up in furs with a chauffeur,

bling-blinged and high-muckety-mucked? And what if God had decked out

Bethlehem like Hollywood on Oscar night: red carpet, flashing lights, with

angels interviewing the royal couple? “Mary, Mary, you look simply divine.”

Had Jesus come with such whoop-de-do, we would have read the story and

thought, My, look how Jesus entered their world.

But since He didn’t, we can read the story and dream. My, might Jesus be born in

my world? My everyday world?

Isn’t that what you indwell? Not a holiday world. Or a red-letter-day world.

No, you live an everyday life. You have bills to pay, beds to make, and grass to

cut. Your face won’t grace any magazine covers, and you aren’t expecting a

call from the White House.

Congratulations. You qualify for a modern-day Christmas story. God enters

the world through folks like you and comes on days like today.

So be alert… today just might be your Christmas story.

Page 16: Maurice Moments · Jeremy & Danielle Dykstra (graduates of MOC and NWC) Kasiah (13), Dyson (11) and Adalie (9) There will be a tip night fundraiser for the Dykstra family at the Sioux

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 Good News Party @ Triple

2—Adult Choir 9:30 AM Worship Pastor Ross

10:45 SS

2 PM Pioneer Club Planning Mtg. and Meal

3 8:30-9:30 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

6:30 PM Bell Choir

4 9 AM Staff 1-5 PM Stitches of Love

5 5:30 Meal

6:20 Jr. GAP

6:30 PM Program Practice

7:50 Sr. High

6 8:15-9:00 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

7 8 5:30-8:30 PM Traveling Nativity

9 9:30 AM Worship Pastor Ross

10:45 SS

5:30-8:30 PM Traveling Nativity

10 8:30-9:30 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

11 9 AM Staff

6:30 PM Consistory Meeting

12 5:30 Meal

6:20 Jr. GAP

6:30 PM Program Practice

7:50 Sr. High

13 8:15-9:00 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

14 6:15 Recycled Teens Christmas Party at Triple Box

15

16—Strings for the King 9:30 AM Worship Pastor Ross

10:45 SS

5:00 PM Children’s Program

17 8:30-9:30 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

6:00 PM Bell Choir

18 9 AM Staff 1-5 PM Stitches of Love

19 6:20 Jr. GAP Christmas Party 7:50 Sr. High Christmas Party

20 8:15-9:00 AM Fellowship Through Fitness

21 22

23—Master’s Ringers 9:30 AM Worship Pastor Ross

No Sunday School

24 5:00 PM Christmas Eve Candle Light Service

25 26 27 28 29

30 9:30 AM Worship Pastor Ross

10:45 SS