Categories: News

NEWS FROM OUR PEWS

Good morning!

A Bad Apple. The Merriman-Webster Dictionary defines a bad apple as: “someone who creates problems or causes trouble for others; specifically, a member of a group whose behavior reflects poorly on or negatively affects or influences the remainder of the group.”

Join us on Sunday morning to hear what Pastor Bill has to say in his message titled One Bad Apple.  It is the next installment in the Joshua series.  The scripture lesson is taken from Joshua 7:1a; 19-23.

Using our new hymnal, we will have a mini hymn sing at the 9:00 Traditional Service this Sunday.   Browse through the hymnal to find an old favorite or a new hymn you’d like to try.

 

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES
The Living Word Adult Sunday School Class continues a topical study of Psalms.  The class meets in Room 102 (Parlor) at 10:10 every Sunday morning.  Please join us.

 WE HAVE A NEW APP FOR YOUR iPHONE!
You can get it with the QR Code found in the bulletin or go to the APP store and search Grace Church of Indiana, PA.  This is an easy way to know what is happening at Grace!  (Note:   At this time, the app is not available for android phones—but we’re tryin’)

 

CHECK OUT OUR PROGRESS
Witness the extraordinary strides we are taking in eradicating the debt incurred for disaffiliation by glancing at the prominently displayed Heritage Fund Thermometer in both our Welcome Center and Narthex. We are thrilled to announce that, thanks to generous donations, we were able to make a $69,000 payment towards the principal of the loan just last week!

If you sense a calling to make a meaningful contribution towards covering disaffiliation costs, we extend a warm invitation to you to make a special gift. Simply write “Heritage Fund” on the memo line of your check or indicate the Heritage Fund line on the offering envelope. Your gracious support will make a significant impact on our journey to financial freedom and ensure a strong and stable future for our church, enabling us to continue vital ministry work. Together, let us rally behind this essential cause and pave the way for a debt-free

 

VBS
Hurry and sign up your kids (and their friends) for an unforgettable Vacation Bible School!  Our Stellar VBS is just around the corner, filled with love, special events, and the shining light of Jesus.  Don’t miss out on one of our biggest events of the year at Grace. Register online at indianagrace.org. Get ready to shine and join us for a fantastic closing Foam Party.

 

PACK HOPE EXPERIENCE
Join us for the upcoming Pack Hope Experience: our annual Rice and Beans UNTO event taking place on September 7-8. Together, we aim to pack an impressive 45,000 meals and raise $15,000 for this worthy cause. We kindly ask you to consider making a generous contribution towards this important mission project.

You can support us by signing up online or in the Welcome Center. Your involvement is crucial as this project requires the collective effort of many individuals. By lending a helping hand, you can make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.  Let’s come together, unite our efforts, and make a lasting impact through the Pack Hope Experience. Your contribution–no matter the size, will contribute towards our shared goal of providing sustenance and hope to those who require it most. The bean-o-meter will be in place shortly so you will be able to see our progress!   Thank you for considering this opportunity to help and to support our mission.

 

FOR ALL INTERESTED GRACE CHURCH FAMILY MEMBERS:
Don’t miss a remarkable opportunity to watch the powerful story of Moses unfold before your eyes.  Reserve your seat early by signing up now in the Welcome Center and submitting payment of $165 to the office no later than August 6.  This price includes your ticket to the show, lunch at the Casey Jones Restaurant, and bus transportation.    You may place checks in the offering plate/boxes, mail to 712 Church Street, or drop in the mail slot at the Growth Center.  Please mark “Moses” on the memo line.

 

LADIES FALL RETREAT:
Calling all ladies! You’re cordially invited to experience an unforgettable weekend of intrigue, relaxation, and sisterhood at our highly anticipated Ladies Mystery Weekend Retreat! Join us from October 27th to 29th as we immerse ourselves in the captivating atmosphere of Whitehall Camp and Conference Center.

Prepare to be enchanted by the stories of our speaker Grace Lennox, who is known for her enthralling storytelling. Her insights will inspire you to embrace life’s mysteries with courage and grace. Indulge in rejuvenating activities, forge new friendships, and savor delicious meals prepared with love. Whitehall Camp’s picturesque surroundings will provide the perfect backdrop for reflection and connection, allowing you to unwind and nourish your soul.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity for self-discovery and sisterhood. Sign up for the Ladies  Retreat today on our website at gracechurch@indianagrace.org.   We eagerly await your presence as we unravel the mysteries together. Get ready for a weekend you’ll cherish forever!

 

Arts & Crafts Showcase and Sale:
We invite you to share your creative prowess with your family and the wider community at our Arts and Crafts Showcase and Sale.  On November 3rd and 4th, our church will transform into a vibrant hub of artistic expression and inspiration. This is your chance to display and sell your unique creations, from stunning paintings and intricate pottery to handmade jewelry and exquisite textiles.

Reserve your space now and secure your spot in this extraordinary event. Whether you’re an experienced artisan or just starting your artistic journey, we welcome all skill levels and a diverse range of crafts. This showcase is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow creatives, gain exposure for your work, and support local artists.

Join us in celebrating the beauty of art and crafts and allow your talent to shine! To reserve your space, please sign up in the Welcome Center.  Spaces are limited, so don’t delay!  We can’t wait to see the incredible creations you bring to our Arts and Crafts Showcase and Sale. Together, let’s inspire and uplift our church family and the community with the power of artistic expression.

 

SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY EVENT:
Join us for a delightful summer picnic at Yellow Creek State Park as we celebrate our Senior Adult Ministry! On August 21st, we invite you to bask in the beauty of nature and enjoy a day of fellowship and fun.

Please bring a covered dish to share (and bring your appetites) as we indulge in a delicious picnic spread amidst the serene surroundings of Yellow Creek State Park. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with old friends and make new ones while enjoying the warmth of the summer season.

We look forward to sharing laughter, stories, and a memorable day together at our Senior Adult Ministry Summer Picnic. Save the date and join us for this delightful event!

 

GRIEF SHARE:
We are pleased to announce the formation of a new GriefShare Group, dedicated to providing support and solace to those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. If you or someone you know is grappling with grief and loneliness, we warmly invite you to be a part of this caring community.  The GriefShare Group will meet every Sunday at 1 p.m. starting from September 10. The sessions will be held in the GIM Building. Through shared experiences and understanding, we aim to provide comfort and companionship as we navigate the journey of grief together.  Past participants of this program have found great comfort and encouragement, and they often recommend it to others. We hope that you will gather the strength to join us and experience the blessings of this support group firsthand.  To register for the GriefShare Group, please visit our website at griefshare.org. We look forward to walking alongside you during this difficult time, offering support, understanding, and a path toward healing.

 

Join Our DivorceCare Group for Support and Healing
We are pleased to announce the launch of a new DivorceCare Group, designed to provide support and guidance to individuals facing the challenging journey of divorce. If you are experiencing the emotional turmoil and difficulties that divorce brings, we extend a warm invitation to join us at Grace Church.  The DivorceCare Group will convene every Thursday at 6 p.m., starting on September 7. Our aim is to offer a safe and nurturing environment where you can find solace, understanding, and practical tools to navigate the complex emotions and stresses associated with separation and divorce.

To register for the DivorceCare Group, please visit divorcecare.org. We encourage you to take this courageous step toward healing and restoration. We are here to walk with you on this journey, providing the support and guidance you need.

 

An old poem that came to mind… 

“Said the robin to the sparrow, ‘I should really like to know,
Why these anxious human beings rush about and worry so.’

Said the sparrow to the robin, ‘Friend, I think that it must be,
That they have no Heavenly Father Such as cares for you and me.'”

      – Elizabeth Cheney (1855 – 1904)

 

Have a wonderful weekend!  See you in church