en Worship - Connect - Serve http://www.columbiagrove.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=257 Christian singer Mark Schultz and Point of Grace will be coming to East Wenatchee Mountain View Assembly of God on Sunday, March 21st at 7 pm! Call Meghan Rush at 679-7898 or e-mail at meghan@columbiagrove.org for tickets. Tickets are $22 and $2.50 of each ticket sale will go to our Youth Group fund. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 12:03:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=256 Friday, March 12th, 7:30-9pm and Saturday, March 13th from 9-4, the CMA will hold their annual season of refreshing 2010 in Yakima at the Westside Baptist Church. This is a great chance to meet Christian motorcyclists. It is the hope that a chapter can get started here in Wenatchee. Please call Paul George at 509-293-1871 or email pawhaler@nwi.net if you are interested. Even if you are not interested in going to the session, but are interested in getting a possible chapter together or just for a ride, call Paul at 509-293-1871.or email pawhaler@nwi.net He would be glad to talk to you about it. Fri, 5 Mar 2010 12:03:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=252 If you are interested in helping plan a church wide 1 night camping trip & bike ride this summer, please attend the informational meeting on March 14 at 10:30am. For more information email Melissa Kelley jkmk2007@live.com Fri, 5 Mar 2010 12:03:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=253 C.G. Book Club is now reading Salt a World History. Potluck and discussion to be held on Friday March 12. New members welcome. Get your book from the library in the Book Club Section. Email Fri, 5 Mar 2010 12:03:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=249 There is a group of men meeting in prayer weekly,from many different denominations to raise up a men's BSF ( bible study fellowship ) We believe that GOD is calling men into this weekly study, and will grow and challenge men to be in his word on a daily basis. With two large successful women's BSF groups already going,we believe now is the time for a men's BSF. You are invited to join them in prayer Tuesday mornings 6:30 am at Wenatchee First Presbyterian Church. For more information please contact Stewart Cusick 741-9414 stewc@genext.net or Dennis Smith 679-3528 gizmo@nwi.net Fri, 5 Mar 2010 12:03:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=172 Mackenzie Mahon Mackenzie runs our discipleship program for 4th, 5th and 6th graders. She's currently a Jr. at Wenatchee High School who's passionate about seeing kids get to know Christ. Steve says she looks a lot like Chloe O'Brian from the TV show 24, only younger. What do you think? Thu, 4 Mar 2010 09:35:30 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=36 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=36&article_id=65 Step 1 Attend a Q & A Cafe. These are presented on a regular basis after worship on Sunday and lasts about 45 minutes. A lite lunch is provided; childcare is available. You will get an overview of 1) the history and theology of Columbia Grove and the Covenant Church, 2) current ministry activities, and 3) organizational structure, with the bulk of the time devoted to answering your questions and helping you consider your call and fit in Columbia Grove. The Q & A Cafe is hosted by Pastor Andrew, various members of the Leadership Team, and the church staff. A "sneak peek" of the type of material usually presented can be downloaded here. Thu, 4 Mar 2010 09:28:28 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54&article_id=157 We have two big service projects each year. In the Summer, we partner with Serve Wenatchee Valley to put shoes on (now) thousands of kids as they return to school. Our most major fund raiser for this we call "Kids Bike for Shoes." In the Winter, we support our church and community families with a project called "Christmas in November." This is a program where we collectively sponsor an individual or a family and tangibly show the love of Christ at Christmas. Learn more about Christmas in November here and contact Meghan Rush at 509-679-7898 or meghan@columbiagrove.org for more information today! Thu, 4 Mar 2010 09:26:34 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=58 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=58&article_id=194 Please continue to pray for Bob Floyd as he continues to recover from heart valve replacement surgery and the unexpected brain aneurysm and complications that followed . Pray for comfort and strength and a speedy recovery and restoration to his health. Please pray for Sue and the rest of the family also as they provide comfort and support. Please pray for Sean Hudgins as he undergoes surgery this coming Monday. Pray for careful hands as the surgery is very close to his spine. Pray for a restoration of health and for Sean's family as they give him strength and comfort. Please pray that a kidney donor would be found for Mario Salgado. Anyone considering donation may call Virginia Mason hospital at 1-800-354-9527 and ask for Mary at the donor line. All expenses to the donor are paid. Submit a prayer or praise request to our Mid-week prayer team. Submit a private prayer request to Pastor Andrew. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:42:09 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60&article_id=211 Sermon podcast via Itunes. Sermon archives. Prayer News. Current Series: "Blessed: The Beatitudes" - Finding God in the mess of everyday life. A six week Connection Group Series that started February 7, 2010. This Week: February 28 - "Blessed Are Those Who Hungar and Thirst fro Righteousness" Upcoming Sermon Series: "Jesus Who?" Investigating the claims about who Jesus is. A four week Connection Group Series starting Easter, April 4, 2010. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:37:58 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=250 Driving down Sunset Hwy, this picture shows the front of the church. You will see signs that say "200 yards McElmurry Lane". Turn East on McElmurry and the church is on the left hand side. See you there! Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:23:24 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=22 Pastor Andrew Thompson Andrew comes to us from Chicago IL, where he served as Worship Leader at Redeemer Church in Park Ridge, IL while completing his Master of Divinity degree through North Park Theological Seminary. Prior to that, he served as Minister of Music and Youth at Wiley Heights Covenant Church in Yakima WA for seven years. He is a published songwriter whose songs are being used by churches across the US and Canada and he has recorded a number of CDs. He and his wife Anita, both grew up in Nelson B.C. They have two daughters, Lauren and Elizabeth. Their house also includes two rabbits: "Joseph" and "Flowercup," and a cat named "Snowflake." In their spare time, the Thompsons like biking, cross-country skiing and trying to figure out how to keep the plants in their yard alive. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:22:42 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=173 Kim Hudgins Kim's job is to oversee our children's midweek discipleship program that runs on Thursday night though the school year. She has a passion to see kids grow deeper in a daily walk with Christ. Kim and her husband Sean have two young sons, which makes her our resident expert in all things involving "Star Wars" or "Ninjas." Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:21:31 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=171 Steve Clem. Steve brings a rich background of musical talent, both as the owner of Avalon Music in Wenatchee, and from decades of musical experience. Steve's job is to develop music, technical and other artistic elements that enhance worship. Right now, Steve's big artistic challenges are developing a high energy choir to augment the worship team and including and developing more people in worship leadership. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:20:43 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=67 Linda Belton Linda, along with her team of volunteers, keeps the office administration and church wide communications running smoothly so that our church stays organized, connected and informed. She comes to us from an extensive background in sales and marketing. She is married to Dave. Together they have three children, and two grandkids! Linda's passion is helping people. She is also the Chairperson of the "Soles From Heaven" ministry that gives away more than 1000 of pairs of new shoes to needy children every year. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:18:58 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=255 More than anything teens are regularly involved in a variety of ministries in our church: playing in the worship band, delivering Children sermons, teaching younger students, serving on short term mission teams, leading in prayer and worship and peer discipleship. We believe in the gifts and talents that God is placing in the next generation and are doing all we can to create a healthy space for these young lives to grow and thrive. Youth Liability Release Form (Required for all trips and other special activities) Please contact Meghan Rush, Family Ministries Director with questions. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:14:15 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=246 Street view of McElmurry Lane. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:12:54 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=103 Our church is involved in a variety of camping programs: Teen Camp with Kootenay Covenant Bible Camp. Children, Teen and Family Camps through Cascades Camp and Conference Center. Informal multi-family camping trips at various times. Contact the church office for information on upcoming events. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:11:34 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=43 The Grove Youth Group meets on Thursday night from 6:30 - 8:00 PM at Mountainview Assembly of God. (19 McElmurry Lane in East Wenatchee.) Each evening includes a worship band, games and a Bible discussion.The Youth Group is open for all students in grades 7-12. In addition, every fall we offer a "Youth Leadership Training" class that offers an overview of Bible basics, along with basic character, leadership and ministry skill development. Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:10:23 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=64 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=64&article_id=201 Your kids are always welcome to sit with you through the entire service if desired. Most weeks there are tables toward the back of the room for young children to color or play quietly as they sit with their families. We also offer: Nursery Care is offered for children ages 0-4 years old during morning worship. The nursery is located in the back hallway to the left. Children's Church is available for children ages 4 to 9 years old. Parents are excused after the children's sermon to register their child for Children's Church. The Children's Church registration is located to the south of the cafeteria. Children then proceed back to a fun and educational time of worship designed just for them! Force 456 is a program for children in Grades 4th to 6th. Force 456 meets in the back of church at two tables designated for them with a Middle School Ministries leader. Children learn through the sermon together in a fun and engaging way. Our church is committed to having a safe and fun environment for our kids to hear the gospel. Please feel free to contact Meghan Rush, Family Ministries Director at meghan@columbiagrove.org with any questions. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:42:21 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=144 Columbia Grove Church Offices are located at 200 Palouse Street, Suite 102 in Wenatchee. Across from the Bruce Hotel, near Liberty Theater. Drop In Office Hours: Monday: 1-5Wednesday: 1-5 Thursday: 1-5 For administrative assistance, or to schedule appointments at other times please contact 509-860-4001. Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:39:05 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=105 You are invited to join us this Sunday where you will find a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a cup of coffee. Meet new friends. Talk about things that matter. We encourage children's participation in worship and have several programs for ages 4-12. In addition, nursery care is provided by qualified volunteers. Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:39:05 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=1 Welcome to Columbia Grove Covenant Church, a thriving multigenerational church in the beautiful Wenatchee Valley of Washington State. We meet at Eastmont Jr. High School in East Wenatchee 9 and 11 AM every Sunday. Please take a look around and explore what is underway and consider how you might want to get involved. God is doing wonderful things! Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:39:05 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=182 Our hope as a church is to help people become more like Jesus, through worship (loving God) connection (loving others) and service (serving our world). Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:37:44 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=38 Expect to be welcomed. Expect that the service will have something for the kids. Expect to hear a wide variety of music. Expect to laugh every now and again. Expect to talk about stuff that matters. Expect to hear the Bible read and discussed. Expect the worship service to last about 75 minutes. Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:58:59 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=21 How We Worship Worship is central to the life of Columbia Grove Covenant Church. It is a place where we gather, where we learn, and where together we respond to the ongoing work of God in our midst. To enable all of us to respond wholeheartedly, we promote creativity, diversity and authenticity in worship. Expect to hear the message presented in a variety of ways. Expect to hear a variety of styles of music. Expect to see a variety of people in leadership. Come as you are; dress however you dress. Come as you are; bring all your questions. Come as you are; bring all your talents. There is a place for you in worship. Our regular worship service times are 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM at Eastmont Jr. High in East Wenatchee. Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:58:32 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=13 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=13&article_id=108 Included below are links to audio files that give an idea of what the weekly messages are like. Not every service is recorded (it's amazing how "tech issues" pop up more frequently in a mobile church) , but most are. Here's some samples. Visit our Sermon Archives: http://columbiagrovesermons.blogspot.com/ Subscribe to our podcast using Itunes or any other podcasting program From the "Questions I Was Afraid to Ask" Series:Red or Blue - How Would Jesus Vote?Where Did the Bible Come From, and Why the Big Deal About it?What About People Who Never Hear?Should Christians Care About the Environment?Christians and WarAre We In The End Times? From the "Tale of Grace" Storytelling Series:The Forgotten InheritanceThe Pigsty Princess Fluffy the Rebellious SheepThe Impostor PrinceSHMILYThe Stingy BillionaireFinding Father Videos From the Sermon - "Building Lasting Intimacy"Best Marriage Advice You've Ever HeardDid You Ever Wonder if You Would Make it?How Did Your Relationship Change Over Time?Pastor Andrew shares his long range vision for the church. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 18:02:12 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59&article_id=207 Mocha Mom's meets every Thursday morning from 11 am to 12:30 pm at Coffee Cabin in Wenatchee at the corner of Fifth Street and Miller Street. This is a great time to fellowship with other woman from church and get to know each other in a support and friendly way. Contact Meghan Rush with any questions. Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:43:46 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=19 We believe that people grow best in their faith as they grow together. That's why we encourage everyone to get involved in a group of some sort. A Connection Group is a group of 3 to 15 people, who regularly meet to share life through study, prayer, service and fun. Check out our current group options through our "find a group" feature. You may be just a few clicks away from friendships that will forever change your life. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:55:41 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=61 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=61&article_id=213 CHRISTMAS IN NOVEMBER Each year we seek to come alongside families that are struggling and provide additional help and support. We would like to wish a BIG Thank You to all the individuals and families who supported this years program. We count our 25+ families sponsored a Huge Success! Thank you All! To get involved, simply donate to our Benevolance Fund and we will use that money for any current families in need. For more information on this program contact Meghan Rush at 509-679-7898 or meghan@columbiagrove.org. Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:08:51 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=20&article_id=63 Our congregation is filled with members who take an active part in ministry. God calls us to make a difference in this world. We encourage everyone to find a service group that fits. There are lots of ways to do that, and it's important for you to find a group that fits you. What do you love? What are you good at? What specific talents has God given you? Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:41:22 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59&article_id=206 The Grove Youth Group has moved to a larger space at Mountainview Assembly of God (19 McElmurry Lane in East Wenatchee). Same time... 6:30 - 8:00 PM.. but a weekly worship band, bigger games, and more room for your friends. See you there. Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:44:28 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=33 A midweek discipleship club for children ages 4 - fourth grade. K2 meets Thursday evenings from mid September - mid April from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Christian Church, 12 N. Chelan St. in Wenatchee. Children are welcomed in at any time of the year, so feel free to come any Thursday K-2 is in session. K2 is now a registered Pioneer club! K2 is a partnership between Columbia Grove Covenant Church and Cornerstone Christian Church. For more information on K2, please contact Kim Hudgins, our K2 Director. For registration information go to K2 Registration . Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:41:50 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59&article_id=205 K2 PIONEER KIDS (PIONEER KIDS CLUB) WEEKLY. K2 Pioneer Kids is a mid week discipleship program that meets on Thursday evenings from 6:30-8pm. Join them for Bible lessons, memory verses, games and crafts with special events throughout the year. K2 Pioneer Kids Club from 6:30-8pm at the Cornerstone Christian Church located at 12 North Chelan Street in Wenatchee. To register your child or children for K2 Pioneer Kids Click here For more info on K2 click here. Thu, 3 Dec 2009 17:11:58 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=146 Calendar of Events September 10 - Season kick off train party at the Wenatchee Miniature Railway September 17 - K2 Begins October 8 - Award Ceremony October 15 - Pictures October 29 - Fall Festival November 12 - Award ceremony November 26 - No K2 Happy Thanksgiving December 10 - Christmas Carroling at Hearthstone Cottage December 17 - Christmas Potluck December 24 and 31 - No K2 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year January 7 - Award Ceremony January 21 - Bowling at Brian's Bulldog Pizza in Cashmere February 11 - Award ceremony February 18 - Potluck and Summer Birthday Party celebration March 18 - Award ceremony April 1- No K2 Spring Break April 15 - Award Ceremony and Graduation ceremony April 22 - Year End Party Thu, 3 Dec 2009 11:44:13 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49&article_id=140 Is your business interested in helping to sponsor a program or event? We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities. Here's some ideas:Sponsor a child/teen camp scholarship ($150 pays for one student)Help underwrite a church newsletter (amount varies, $50 suggested donation)Purchase shoes for underprivileged kids ($10/ pair)Help underwrite community field upkeep (amount varies, $50 suggested donation) All sponsoring businesses names and/or logo will be included in associated printed materials. We can provide you with appropriate receipting to confirm your donation as an advertising expense. Ready to do it? Here's how: Send your check to: Columbia Grove Covenant Church 200 Palouse, Suite 102 Wenatchee WA 98801 Or pay online. (You will be redirected to a secure sister site hosted by Vanco Services.) Thu, 3 Dec 2009 11:36:48 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=46 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=46&article_id=129 There are a number of ways you can financially support the ministry of Columbia Grove: Automatic Electronic Giving (Giving Form) (Changes in Giving Form) Giving money or item towards a specific ministry project Building Fund Giving Benevolence Fund Giving Please prayerfully consider how God is calling you to partner with us in ministry. Now it's possible to give online using a simple, secure process. Click here to give. (You will be directed to a secure sister site hosted by Vanco Services.) May God bless you for your generosity. Thu, 3 Dec 2009 11:30:33 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=145 Looking for a specific form related to our ministry? Here's links to all our main organizational forms and documents in one place. Related to MembershipMembership Application FormColumbia Grove's Constitution and Bylaws Related to Auto GivingSigning up for Auto Giving Form Changing your Auto Giving Form Youth Ministry Liability Release Form (Required for participation in special trips or events)Youth Council Application Form Other Policy Forms333 9th Street Field Usage Agreement Community Communications PolicyWedding PolicyWedding Brochure Volunteer Ministry Job DescriptionSummer Children's Ministry Intern Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:24:00 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=65 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=65&article_id=229 By Wesley W. Nelson When I think about how to become a Christian, I am reminded of a runaway farm horse that came racing down the road toward me. When he saw me, he dashed off the road and got tangled in a huge bundle of old rusty wire. The more he struggled to free himself, the more tightly he became tangled. Finally he lay helpless, with wires all around him, breathing heavily and snorting with frustration. Several people tried to untangle him, but as soon as anyone came close, the horse resumed his struggling. Then a man who loved and understood horses arrived on the scene. For a longtime he talked quietly to the horse from a distance. Slowly, as he talked, he came nearer. When he got close enough he began to pat the horse gently. Soon the horse grew calm enough to permit the man to begin cutting away the wire with a pair of pliers. As long as the horse trusted the man and lay quietly, all went well. But whenever he struggled to help free himself, he only made things worse. Finally the horse gave up and let the man cut away the wires until he was free again. Not only was he free—he was also calm enough to let the man lead him back to his owner. Life, like this runaway horse, is out of control. Here we are with everything imaginable to entertain us—to make life a paradise. Yet these things never seem to bring us peace. The world is full of trouble, and most of the trouble is caused by people. Many of us would like to separate ourselves from those who cause the trouble and think of ourselves as being exceptions, but we can’t do this. None of us is perfectly good, and probably no one is all bad. We are all tangled up with this troubled world because we are part of it. As the Bible says, “There is no difference, for all have sinned” (Romans 3:22-23). God has included all of us among the sinners so he can save us from our entanglement and set us free. Jesus said, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). We Christians are people who are continually being set free, free to live a satisfying and useful life, free from a troubled conscience, free to be what God intended us to be. Jesus offers us a purpose for living, and he assures us of the freedom to fulfill that purpose. Just like that horse, we must give up the struggle to free ourselves. We must trust Jesus to save us from our entanglement and set us free. The Bible tells us: “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of god—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Since salvation is a gift from God, it is available to all people on the same basis. It makes no difference what you have done, why you did it, or how bad it was. If you will trust Jesus, he will come to you as the man came to the horse, set you free, forget your past, and lead you back to God. Then he will help you start to live a new, free life. God has done everything necessary. God has sent his Son, Jesus, who died for ours sins and rose again. This is the most important truth about the Christian faith. The Apostle Paul explained it this way: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). God has done everything necessary for us to be saved from our entanglement. He did it for us because he knew we were so deeply entangled that we could never save ourselves. We can only trust him and accept by faith what he has done for us. This is what the Bible calls “the good news.” What if we can’t believe in God and in Jesus? In these days it is particularly hard to have faith in God because there are so many things all around us to trust in. God seems unreal. Because he knew how hard it would be, he sent his Holy Spirit to convince us how much we need him and to encourage us to turn to him. If we do not have enough faith, God’s Holy Spirit will give us faith. The Holy Spirit gently assures us that God cares, just as the man gently assured the tangled horse that he cared. The Holy Spirit invites us to trust Jesus, just as the man invited the horse to trust him. All we can do is stop struggling and give God a chance. What does faith in Jesus mean? 1) Faith in Jesus means to depend on what Jesus has done. We do this by accepting him as our Savior. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, God offers us the forgiveness of our sins and new life. He asks us to depend on what Jesus has done rather than on what we can do. He asks us to trust in Jesus rather than in ourselves. 2) Faith in Jesus means to trust Jesus enough to repent. We do this by turning to God and confessing that we have sinned by trying to live our own lives without him, and asking him to forgive us. The good news from the Bible is: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19); “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). 3) Faith in Jesus means to confess Jesus as Lord. We do this by inviting Jesus to take control of our lives and confessing that we recognize him as Lord over all. We may not fully understand what it will mean to follow him, but we will trust him to show us the way as we go along. Even though we may fail often, God will forgive our failures. He will help us to overcome our temptations and to live useful and satisfying lives. This is the promise from the Bible: “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). To believe “in your heart” means that you want to believe that Jesus is risen from the dead even though you may not be able to do so. If you will tell God how hard it is to believe, he will accept you and help you to trust in him. To put it simply, we become Christians by believing in Jesus. This means that: 1) We choose to accept him as our Savior and depend on him rather than on ourselves. 2) We repent of our sins and ask God to forgive us. 3) We turn ourselves over to Jesus, confess him as Lord of all, and invite him to take control over us. Then he helps us to believe that he arose from the dead and is able to lead us through our lives. The Spirit of God helps us make this choice and even helps us to believe and to obey Jesus. He also give us God’s gift of salvation. Your response to God One way to respond to God is to pray to him, either in your own words or in the words of the following prayer: God, I put my faith in what you have done for me through Jesus’ death and resurrection. I confess how hard it is for me to believe, but I am trusting you to give me faith. I confess that I am a sinner, and I repent and ask your forgiveness. I depend on Jesus to save me from my sins and to give me eternal life. I want to obey Jesus as Lord of my life. I don’t know all that this means, but I will depend on him to show me as I go along. I know I cannot earn the right to be a Christian. I accept this right as a free gift. Thank you that you have forgiven my sins that you are my heavenly Father, and that you have accepted me as your child. Help me to be a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Amen. If you have just made this decision, welcome to God’s family! God has called you and given you the faith to believe in him, and you have responded to his call. Now you are beginning a new life, a life that you have received as a gift from God. You belong to God and he will give you strength to live this new life by faith. A good promise to remember is: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13). Since you now belong to God’s family, it will be important for you to become acquainted with other members of this family. Find a pastor and some Christian people who will help you begin your new life as a Christian. Scripture passages are quoted from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by the International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers. Copyright ©1989 Covenant Publications Sat, 28 Nov 2009 14:06:21 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62&article_id=214 If you have any items or services you would like to provide church members, please email the church office and we will do our best to post it by the following week. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:23:37 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62&article_id=210 DID YOU KNOW Did you Know Columbia Grove has a "Benevolence Fund"? 100% of this fund goes to help dire local needs, both within our congregation and the larger community, through our partnership with Serve Wenatchee Valley. With this fund we have helped with emergency food supplies, rent & mortgage assistance, utility bills, car repairs and other serious needs. Most of this happens anonymously to the congregation, because it is never our intention to single out those receiving help. To give to our Benevolence fund, please mark "Benevolence" on your offering check memo line. Thank you for your generosity. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:23:37 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=57 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=57&article_id=212 Worship News Prayer News Connection News Service News Support News Community Events News Sat, 14 Nov 2009 19:25:26 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=184 Meghan Rush It's Meghan's job to coordinate and help develop our Children's and Youth Ministry programs and volunteers. With all the kids and youth that are a part of our church, that's a sizable job! Meghan and her husband Shawn have three children, including one teenage daugher. They also run a motorcycle driver training school in their (snicker) spare time. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:12:23 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=39 We value children. For this reason we do everything we can to promote their safety and well being in church. Here are some of the guidelines we follow in order to do this: At least two adult workers with children at all times Background checks of every children’s worker Required nursery sign in and Children's Church sign in Nursery texting/call system. If your infant requires you for any reason during the service,we will text/call you. Please return to the nursery area to attend to your infant’s needs. For safety reasons we do not change diapers without expressed written permission of the parent. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:05:28 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=24 Children in Worship We love kids. Children are highly valued at Columbia Grove and are an essential part of our family. We do all we can to find ways for kids to be fully involved in worship, and to make worship fun and accessible for them. In addition, we have a special Children's Church program during the sermon section of the service where they can interact with the day's message through activities that are geared just for them. Your kids are welcome to sit with you through the entire service if desired. They are always welcome. However, Nursery care for 0-4 year olds is always available if needed Check out our Children's section here. Children who have made a faith commitment to Christ are invited to participate in Communion, with the permission of a parent. Children who come forward who are not yet ready to receive it as a believer will receive a grape as a symbol of their future participation. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:03:36 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=154 Our hope as a church is to help people become more like Jesus, through worship (loving God) connection (loving others) and service (serving our world). Pastor Andrew talks about what to expect when you come to worship with us for the first time. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:09:34 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18&article_id=191 Who is the Evangelical Covenant Church? from Covenant Communications on Vimeo. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:44:32 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33&article_id=190 We are so thankful that once again God has made provision for every child that came to the event on August 15th received a new pair of tennis shoes. Over 1,000 pairs of shoes were given away this year. The people began to line up at 3:15am and the Back to School Clothing giveaway was in full swing by 8am. Continuing until noon for shoes, socks, haircuts, gently used clothing, toothbrushes, balloons, cookies, music and fun, the festivities continued until noon. Thank you to all the volunteers at the event (over 350) and thank you to the tireless efforts of the congregation at Columbia Grove, This year's efforts included a silent auction in December at the Annual Ladies Christmas Luncheon, the Annual Kids Bike For Shoes in June and various businesses who so generously gave their time, talents and money to provide the shoes. To date, this event has raised over $60,000 and over 6,000 pairs of shoes have been given away to children in the Wenatchee valley. Stay tuned for an update as preparations are made for the 2010 "Back to School Clothing Giveaway" in August. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:02:44 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33&article_id=187 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:02:44 MST http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33 http://www.columbiagrove.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=33&article_id=143 Here is the report from Serve Wenatchee Valley: Dear Partner in Ministry, Balloons, stacks of shoe boxes, tables and racks filled with pieces of clothing, haircuts, music, popcorn, cookies and punch, boxes of new socks, face-painting, story -telling and much more brought excited looks to the faces of children and appreciative expressions on the faces of their parents. Hundreds of volunteers and numerous contributors demonstrated what God can do when churches and a community work together. Our seventh annual Back-To-School Clothing Giveaway was an incredible blessing for all who participated. Despite the 100+ degree heat and fears that we might run out (especially when families started lining up at 3:45 am) every one of the children was served. The numbers speak volumes about how lives were touched through the event......1058 children received a new pair of school shoes986 bags of clothing were given away350 free haircuts were provided by the staff/students of the Academy for Hair DesignOver 2500 pairs of new socks were given awayOver $22,000 donated towards the purchase of new clothing and shoes But the numbers do not tell the whole story. The excitement of seeing children get new/used clothing for the new school year and the appreciation of the parents seeing the needs of their children met tell the story which words and numbers are inadequate to express. We would like to express a special word of thanks for your support in helping us make this event possible. Events like this make me appreciate even more the valley in which we live. A spirit of generosity is continually demonstrated by businesses and individuals within our valley to help the less fortunate. Thank you from Bob Shepard, Director of Serve Wenatchee Valley. Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:02:44 MST