October 22, 2010

Our Rwandan Weekend

We’re about to step into an exciting several days as Church of the Redeemer celebrates our special relationship with Rwanda. If you’ve been around for awhile, you probably know the stories and chapters of our connections to this unique and beautiful country. But sometimes we forget how blessed we are to be so intentionally related to brothers and sisters on the other side of the world, and what a positive strength this is for our own families and communities.

Once again it is a unique privilege to welcome Bishop John Rucyahana, as we’ve done every year for 12 years. He is a treasure for us, as God has used him to bring hope and healing to his scarred nation, and leadership to the global church. This is his last visit with us as Bishop of the Shyira Diocese as he prepares to retire next month. He will continue to be active in ministry and in his new role as Chairman of Rwanda’s Unity and Reconciliation Commission. Let’s welcome him and also bless him for the years of love, care and leadership he has offered our church since it first began. He will share at the banquet, preach on Sunday and do confirmations. Bring guests along with you to experience the ministry of this outstanding servant of God.

Also with us is Richard Ndekezi, ‘top boy’ at Sonrise High School. As head ‘Prefect’ he is a leader of leaders, appointed by virtue of his academic achievements as well as his character. Richard has travelled from Rwanda just to be with us at the benefit and for worship on Sunday, and will be sharing his story at the banquet Saturday night. If you have ever wondered ‘what kind of difference does Sonrise really make?’ then don’t miss the opportunity to hear the answer first hand.

Come celebrate these vital connections in our life together, with the Sonrise Benefit on Saturday evening and Sunday morning worship at 10am.

Peace of Christ,
Jay

The Rev. Jay L. Greener, Rector
Church of the Redeemer

jlgreener@gmail.com

COR@9 Announcement — Spiritual Gifts

For the past couple of years, we have sensed God calling us to grow in the vital area of discipleship, so we have intentionally been building and strengthening ministries intended to grow disciples. COR@9 (“Church of the Redeemer at 9 a.m.”) has been one important ministry that has emerged in response to Jesus’ call to each of us, “Come, follow me.” This Fall, COR@9 returns with some specific teaching and discussion around two areas that are integral parts of discipleship: spiritual gifts and spiritual practices.

If you have been in the church for any length of time, you have probably heard the term “spiritual gifts” a number of times. You might have even taken a spiritual gifts inventory. However, did you know that spiritual gifts are not just for “super Christians” or “charismatics,” but a fundamental part of being the body of Christ together? In other words, did you know that spiritual gifts are not a spiritual “upgrade” option? Could you answer the question, “why are spiritual gifts important?” Do you have a sense of how the Spirit has uniquely gifted you to serve His people? Are you actively using your gifts at Redeemer?

If not, come and grow with us as Dana Harris leads us in understanding and living into Spiritual Gifts together. Beginning October 31st and lasting for four Sundays, we’ll engage with Scripture and hear from one another as we seek to strengthen one another and our common ministry. For more information, please contact Pastor Amanda (zaholm [at] gmail.com or 951-256-0124).

Winter Clothing/Coat drive

Through Sunday, November 14th Church of the Redeemer is sponsoring an all winter clothing drive (including outerwear) for our neighbors in need. Love INC (In the Name of Christ) will be overseeing the distribution of these items. Needed are “gently used, clean” winter clothing as well as winter coats, hats, scarves, gloves and the like for all ages. Items can be placed in two marked boxes located in the foyer. If you have any questions, please contact Dan Babarik at dblaw7 [at] gmail.com or 847.360.3300 or 847.244.3236.

New to Redeemer?

If you’re new to the Redeemer scene, that’s great. You are not alone. We want you to feel welcomed and invited to a place where you feel you truly belong. Beginning next Sunday,
join us for Discover Redeemer, over a light lunch for four Sundays. Come and learn more about our story, the things we believe and practice, and the vision that God is releasing here.

Giving

We’re in the final months of the year, and are counting down to meeting the budget, and finishing 2010 with all of our ministry bills paid. That’s important, and meeting this goal will require gifts of sacrifice (of all sizes) and fervent prayer. The end of the year is not that far off, so thank you for praying and participating as God directs.

Have you experienced God’s gracious generosity in a unique way? Have you seen needs met that grew your faith in God’s goodness? Please share your stories as a means of encouraging our community in faith and generosity. Thank you for sharing your life and resources openly before the Lord.

Amount last Sunday: $6,448
Amount still needed by December 31st: $113,142

Service of Healing

On the first Wednesday evening of each month we host a service of healing, including a time of music/worship, prayers of confession and reconciliation, holy communion, and anointing with oil for wholeness. Our first service last month was well attended and many experienced the touch of God in their lives at points of need.

Our next service will be Wednesday, November 3rd, 7pm at Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Please pray for . . .

— the Sonrise Benefit, for Bishop John and Richard Ndekezi
— that we would be full of the Holy Spirit, especially those being confirmed on Sunday
— those in need of provision (job, healing, relational, etc)
— our Alpha courses underway
— our year end financial need