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 Dan's January 2008 Update
We survived!
During the last month we have had temperatures ranging from zero to 60, weather ranging from blizzards to thunderstorms, and ground cover ranging from 8 inches of snow to mud! The circumstances were almost perfect for a family Christmas (all kids and grandkids were here for at least a couple of days—though some had to be routed around fog through Midway in Chicago, then by bus to the Quad Cities).
It seemed like every weekend we were wondering what weather system would be undermining our attempt to meet together. Although we cancelled the Sunday morning service on December 23 (and the Schoepfs, etc, were out sledding at 9 am!), we had great weather and attendance for the three Christmas Eve services.
Now we get back to reality and here is what’s up—
"Group Doctor"
After months of prayer and searching we are delighted to announce that (Dr.) Jeff Allgood will be serving as our small groups pastor. Jeff and his family have been here at Calvary since 1994. He has served with men’s and adult ministries teams, the Leadership Board (chair for 2+ years). Jeff will officially begin on February 1 and will be working part-time. His work will be to come alongside and champion the small group ministry (community) here. He will be the "second base coach"—"Group Doctor"J! Jeff is married to Janet and they have four children—Lance (at Iowa State), Molly (at Iowa State), Kyle and Angie.
Hope for the world’s neediest children
Our missions team under the leadership of Jill Cawiezell is announcing a new partnership which will connect the people of Calvary with the children of Liberia. Two years ago we began to focus our prayers, strategies, and resources toward three parts of the world—China (no small target!), Guatemala (where 200+ Calvary folks have visited on short term trips), and West Africa (specifically from Senegal to Liberia).
We have been specially burdened to team up with Vision Trust International (www.visiontrust.org) and the Prime System School of Christ in Monrovia, Liberia. Our goal is to help the orphaned and vulnerable children (in line with what God says) in their spiritual and educational development while supporting their health advancement.
Last weekend almost 40 children were sponsored! If you are interested and have questions about Calvary’s specific project please contact Jill (jillc@calvaryonline.org).
See the world as God does
With all the hype about the caucuses I must occasionally review the things that really get God’s attention. What is it that grabs God’s heart? What is it that God wants me to see about the world around me? Actually, I think it takes some training to get my eyes focused on the right stuff.
One of the best ways for this to happen is through "Perspectives" (www.perspectives.org). The class will have top-notch presenters and begins on Monday, January 14, at 6 p in Community Room 6. This is not for slouches! If you just want to check it out, you are welcome to attend the first session at no charge. If the tuition or child care is a problem please touch base with the "Get Salty" team at the information table in the Commons. And pray for the team of 18 who are putting this opportunity in front of us.
The Treasure Principle
Our focus for the next four weekends will be on what God says about money! It is a big deal! A fourth of the stories Jesus told had this theme. As we start a new year we need to be on top of the earning/saving/spending/giving/borrowing patterns!
The Treasure Principle (see book with the same name by Randy Alcorn) is "You can’t take it with you, but you can send it on ahead" (Matthew 6:19-21).
We will conclude the series with a "Tithe Challenge Weekend"—everybody tithe on what they make in a week. We’ve never done that before. God says to test him in this. Let’s see what He will do through us!
Dan Schoepf is the Senior Pastor of Calvary Church.
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