Newark Youth Blog

Information for Wed 8/26

2009-08-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

- Wed night we will continue with "The Truth Project" and session nine: The State: Whose Law? We will get started at 6:30 PM

- Ms. Sally Kuntz told me today that she will have the classroom cleaned out for us tomorrow. After "The Truth Project", make plans to help pitch in to move the furniture from the storage area into our room. If we work together it should not take too long. We also need to come up with a good name for the room (something better than "teen room"!).

- Many of our teens are returning to school this week or next week. Next week (September 2nd) we will go back to our schedule of a shorter devotional at 7 PM and fellowship time in the gym until 8:30 PM.

Spring 2009 Calendar

2009-02-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

*** Sunday morning Bible Study 9:30 AM ***

*** Teen Life Group Wednesday 7pm (Location varies, call church office for information)***

February

7: Winter Rally @ Manatawny
21: Amazing Grace Project 10AM-1PM
26: David Crowder Concert
27: Teen/Campus Connection 7pm

March

7: Sunday Breakfast Mission: Serving Dinner
13: Pizza, Bible Bowl & Bowling
21: Junior High Bible Bowl @ Camp Hill
27-29 Youth Advance Leadership Seminar

April

11: Sunday Breakfast Mission: Hope Totes & Easter Baskets
17-19 Junior High Retreat
24-26 Senior High Retreat

May

15: Game Night
16: Mexico Golf Outing
29: Manchester (NH) Youth Rally

***Details about Graduation: TBA***

Mark Your Calendars!

June 11-14: Sr. High Guys Hiking Trip
June 20-27: Mexico Mission Trip

Camp Manatawny Summer Sessions. Click Here for more information and dates for your week!

Youth Ministry Update 9/1/08

2008-08-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

- CHANGE FOR WEDNESDAY NIGHT!!! We are beginning a Junior and Senior High “Life Group” that will be meeting on Wednesday nights @ 7pm. This group is for teenagers in 6th-12th grade and their parents. There will be a time of Bible Study directed at issues teenagers are dealing with and then afterwards a time to hang out, fellowship, and play some games. On Wednesday September 3rd, the group will begin to meet in the gym. From then on it will rotate from the gym one week to somebody’s house the next week. We will try to keep you up to date on the location, etc. If you are interested in be part, please talk with Steve Mahoney or be there Wed. September 3rd in the gym. NOTE: If you are a part of another LIFE Group that is ok, this is just a “specialized group”.

- September 1st: Church Labor Day Picnic: See bulletin for details…

- September 13th: BBQ & Game Night at the Wall’s (Bill and Debbie).
Time: 4:00pm-whenever. BRING A 2 LITER OF SODA OR SOMETHING TO DRINK (TO SHARE) WITH YOU (and if you want some games. Directions will be posted on the youth ministry bulletin board. If you have any questions see the Walls’ or Matt.

- September 19-20: Oktoberfest Parking. We will be parking cars in our parking lot for the Oktoberfest as a fundraiser with the money going towards the Mexico Mission Trips. We need helpers on Friday from 5:00pm-10:00pm and Saturday from 12-9PM. Sign up sheet will be on the bulletin board. We will be doing this with BHC as well (they are taken a trip in January to Mexico).

- September 21: Kidney Walk. Please let Matt Wilson know if you are planning to walk. You can fundraise if you want (see Matt for details) or you can just come and walk. Registration starts at 8:30 AM and the walk begins at 10AM. We will have a communion service after the walk at the park with members from other congregations that will be there.

- September 26: Teen/Campus Connection. This will be at the campus house (17 East Park Place). We will have food, games, etc and just some time for you to get to know the college students. We are also inviting the Cedars youth group to be there with us. Please sign up so we can plan for food (AGAIN….on the bulletin board )

- October 4: Church wide Hayride. See bulletin and the Flyer on the bulletin board for more details.

- Information for Stand Your Ground (October 18) and Belpre Youth Rally (November 21-23) are on the board. Registration forms will be coming soon. Mark the dates down and clear your calendars!!!

- HEY GIRLS!!!! Daughters of the King at Fairfax church of Christ is coming November 7-8. Mark your calendars and more information on the way… If you want to see about the conference go to: http://www.fxcc.org/daughtersoftheking/

BEACH & BOOKBAGS!!!!

2008-07-30T14:38:00.001-07:00

Information on two upcoming events/projects:

- Beach Trip Saturday August 9 (there will be no Friday night this year). Leave the building by 8 AM (I know its early but you can sleep on the bus). Be back by 5-5:30PMish. Cost: $5 (also bring $$$$ for lunch). I need you to sign up THIS SUNDAY if you're going!!!!!!!

- Back to School Backpack Giveaway: Saturday August 16th. Meet at the building at 9AM to carpool (9:30 @ SBM). Be done around Noon (back to the building at the latest 1PM). We will be giving out over 2,000 bookbags to inner city children. Please sign up (everyone is invited...parents, friends, etc) on the youth ministry bulletin board if you can go. They need LOTS of volunteers. Sign up by August 10th (so I can give them a count)....we can add more after that but they would like a good headcount if possible (for lunch, volunteer t-shirts and bookbag stations).

Mexico Mission Team Pictures 2008

2008-06-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

PICTURES FROM 2008 TRIP: CLICK HERE!!

Mexico Mission Update: Thursday June 19

2008-06-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a very long but enjoyable day.

We began the day early and went and finished the 2nd floor so it would be ready to begin the roof. We finished that by 11 AM. After lunch we gave out gifts and sang and prayed together over the building and the minister and his family and the congregation as a whole.

One of the highlights of the day was playing street soccer with many of the neighborhood kids. By the end of our time about 15 kids and several adults from the community were there to spend time with us and see us off.

Each year we give gifts to the church as a thank you. We filled the front of the stage with gifts and to the preacher's wife (who cooked all our food each day), we got her a mixer (something the ladies who helped her from our group thought she could use). She was very touched but the gift (something we would take for granted). It was an emotional day but a great one.

After getting back to the hotel and relaxing and having a devotional we went to dinner and then went to a baseball game to Sultanes de Monterrey (the professional baseball team in Mexico). It was an amazing experience with alot of fun. We met a lot of people and enjoyed the game together. Monterrey won 8-1. Look out for Alfredo Simon in the major leagues in a few years....he is a great pitcher. He almost pitched a shutout and had a home run hit off him in the 8th inning.

Tomorrow we head back to San Antonio which will be a LONG day of travel. We have many memories and we are sad to leave. God has done great things this week and it has been great to be apart.

Continued prayers for our travels....

Mexico Mission Update: Wednesday June 18

2008-06-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day! We finished the 4 walls on the second floor and now we need to pour the columns and finish the windows tomorrow.

Rick Owens came to lunch today and talked with us for a while. It is always great to have Rick on the work site and spend time with him and have him talk to the group. Rick and Sherry are two very special people. Sherry is back in New Mexico right now.

Rick told us a little bit of the history of this church and how it came about. The minister and his family moved to this place to live and they met under a tree for several years. They had no where else to go or place to meet so that is where they met. This is one of Rick's ideal people to help. What we are building is something that they would never be able to have and this church will be filled within the next year. You will also see pictures of the minister's house. Most of the cooking is done outside on stoves because they do not have the space for it in their home. They use work gloves as oven mits because that is what they could afford.

We have also worked and met several of the members and heard there amazing stories...some very good and some with great tragedy. But yet daily they see the greater calling.

We also got to interact today with many of the children in the community. People are becoming more friendly and accepting to us. Its a shame tomorrow is the last day since we are making so many connections but hopefully these will spark something for the church there.

Rick reminded us of the phrase "to much is given; much is required" and that rings true each time we come here to Mexico. This has been a tremendous blessing!

Tomorrow we will finish our work at the church and say our goodbyes. Its been a hard week of work but a rewarding one.

Here are pictures from the first few days (not of today) You can see pictures at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/petersonrw/sets/72157605671559782/

Thank you more the prayers....more tomorrow.

Mexico Mission: Tuesday June 17

2008-06-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today was another hot day of work but we made it through!!! With lots of team work, water, and breaks we got alot accomplished. We poured some of the columns, finished 3 of the walls. Tomorrow we will finish the walls and hopefully pour all the columns and finish the windows.

After work, we went to the "Nunery" where all the waitresses dress like Nuns and we have the traditional "Hot sauce contest". After that we went out in the market square and walked in shops, bought some things and even got frozen yogurt. After we did all that we had a wonderful devotional together.

Tomorrow if another long, hot day ahead of us. But we are all in good spirits and excited for the work God has put before us.

More tomorrow......

Mexico Mission: Monday June 16

2008-06-16T19:58:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day of work. Our job is to put up the 4 walls of the 2nd floor of the church. again, we worked at this church 2 years ago. It was good to see people that we knew from years past. Today was very hot but we worked well and got alot done with of course the traditional block parties.

We worked extra because of the late start. We came back to the hotel, had dinner and got to enjoy the evening that we have left (mostly get to go to bed early).

Tomorrow is a busy day and we start early. We hope to have pictures up tomorrow but we will see about that...having some technical difficulties with get pictures up.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers....

Mexico Mission Update: Sunday June 15

2008-06-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Mexico!

We got across the border safely and with out any real issue. We went to church in Nuevo Laredo at the church that Paco just planted two years ago. It was enjoyable to be at the church and worship with some of the Mexican Christians there.

One moment that stuck out was during the sing we sang in english and the Mexican Christians sang in Spanish. However, while singing "We Will Glorify" we all came together in unison singing "Hallelujah". It was really impactful in the sense that we are so different yet through Christ we have anything in common.

From there we continued to travel and ended safely in Monterey. It was great to see Rick Owens again and get to talk with him. The hotel is wonderful and way beyond what we need. We ate in the Marketplace and had a devotional together.

Tomorrow we begin the work. For the first time ever we are working on a building that we worked on two years ago. This is a new experience but one that will be great to rekindle some old friendship that we had from before.

Everyone is doing well and getting ready for bed. It's suppose to be VERY hot this week. But we are ready to work as a team and accomplish what we are to begin.

Thanks for the prayers.....

Mexico Mission Trip Sat. June 14

2008-06-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely in Laredo, TX today after a LONG day of travel. Its good to see some old faces and get to meet some new people. Tomorrow we cross the border into Mexico early in the morning. We plan to go to church in Mexico with one of the preachers we worked with in years past name Paco. Then we are off to Monterrey. The trip is going well so far and we are excited to see what God has in store for us.

Keep the prayers going....they are appreciated and felt.

Pictures will be posted later on in the week!

More tomorrow.....

Movie Night and Mexico updates

2008-06-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

- Movie Night over at the Morgan's. Friday @ 7pm. Guys bring drinks; Girls bring snacks. We are watching National Treasure II!!!! Directions to the Morgan's we're emailed earlier this week or are on the bulletin board at the church. If you need them email me and I can send them to you!!!

- This Saturday the Mexico Mission Team leaves for their work in Monterrey. Please be in prayer all this next week for the safety and success of the team. There will hopefully be daily updates posted here so be checking back to see what we are doing (as long as there is internet access there will be updates...and as of now...everywhere we go there is internet in the hotel).

- I will post the rest of the summer schedule after Mexico (so you will actually see it after this week :)) Calendars are posted on the youth ministry bulletin board in the lobby. REMEMBER TO REGISTER FOR CAMP IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY!!!! AND FOR THE YOUTH MINISTRY CAMPING RETREAT TO CAPE HENLOPEN!!!!

Youth Ministry Update 4/16/08

2008-04-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

• THIS WEEKEND: Junior High Retreat. 6th-8th graders. Location: Camp Manatawny. Registration begins at 7pm. The retreat is over on Sunday at 1pm. You can register online at www.manatawny.org or at the retreat. Details can be found at the Manatawny website or at http://www.jrhighretreat.wordpress.com/ or on the youth ministry bulletin board.

• April 25-27: Senior High Retreat. 9th-12th grade. Location: Camp Manatawny. We will meet at the building at 5pm to leave. We will be back Sunday afternoon. Please let me know if you are planning on going so transportation can be arranged. Registration and details can be found on the youth ministry bulletin board or at the Manatawny website (www.manatawny.org).

• The Golf Outing for the Mexico Mission Team is April 26. Details can be found in the bulletin. If you are going on the trip, help is needed please see Barry Romano. Please come and support the team and have a fun day playing golf! See Barry for questions or information.

• April 30: Community Night. We will not have class this evening. There will be games, food, and play some softball and just enjoy an evening together. We will have the inflatable games as well (jousting, etc). There will be people there from church, school, and community. Starts at 5:30pm; Food will be served (hot dogs, chips, etc) at 6pm. This will be over at around 7:30ish.

• May 2-4: Senior High Guy’s Hiking Trip. Trip is full and details can be gotten from Greg Romano.

• May 3: George Rowe concert @ Cedars church of Christ. Time: 7pm. The concert is FREE but you need to have a ticket. You can get these from the Newark church office or call the Cedars church for details (994-3800).

• May 9: “First Friday”. This will be the last one for the school year. 7-8:30pm in the gym. Snacks, playing in the gym, games, a movie…just a time to hang out. Bring friends if you would like…

• May 16: 2nd Mexico Golf Outing. Details coming…see Barry Romano for info.

• May 17: Service Project @ the Sunday Breakfast Mission. Meet at the building at 9 AM; be at SBM @ 9:30 AM. We will be done around 1 PM.

• May 20: High School & College Graduation Dinner. 7 PM in the multipurpose room.

• May 26: Memorial Day Picnic. See the bulletin for details.

• May 30-June 1: Camp Sonshine @ Manatawny. This is a weekend camp for special need children. There are counselor and staff needs. If you are interested in helping (you need to be 16 to work) call Joanne Earnest @ (610) 689-0173. Details can be found at http://www.manatawny.org/campsonshine.htm

• Mexico Mission Trip is June 14-21

• Register for Camp Manatawny Summer Sessions: Sr. High 2 (11th-12 Grade): June 21-28, Sr. High 1 (9th – 10th grade): June 28-July 5, Jr. High 2 (7th – 8th grade): July 5-12

Junior and Senior High Retreats

2008-04-03T11:04:00.001-07:00

The Junior High Retreat is coming on April 18-20. This is for 6th-8th graders. Location: Camp Manatawny. Registration forms are on the bulletin board in the lobby or you can online register at www.manatawny.org

The theme is: Who Are You? Finding Yourself in a World of Chaos. I am directing the weekend. You can get details about the weekend at: http://jrhighretreat.wordpress.com/

To get the Early Bird Special on cost registration due FRIDAY! If you can't get it in please still plan to attend. Several people from Newark will be working at the retreat as well so there will be familiar faces there

The Senior High Retreat is April 25-27. This is for 9th-12th Graders. Again, registration forms are on the bulletin board or you can register online at www.manatawny.org.

Early bird special on cost is due on April 13th but you can still register after that time....

PLAN TO ATTEND...THESE WILL BE GREAT RETREATS!!!!

SBM is canceled tomorrow & YM update

2008-02-22T13:16:00.001-08:00

- Tomorrow (Saturday) going to Sunday Breakfast Mission is going to be canceled because nobody signed up to go. We will reschedule for sometime in March.

- As was announced two weeks ago; starting June 1st I will be moving from Youth and Worship to a Student minister role, working with the Junior and Senior High and also the campus ministry. This is added responsibility but Im looking forward to continuing to work with the teens and to begin to work with the campus ministry. Because of the added responsibility, I am going to need to be delegating certain responsibilities on both sides of campus and youth. I am still thinking and working on what areas and how and I need to talk more with the elders about this and think and pray about it. At some point in the coming months, I would like to have a meeting to talk about this. Please be thinking of areas that you could help out with the youth ministry.

Some updates and things to keep in mind and mark down:

· Beginning in March; Harold Friedline will be teaching the Senior High Bible Class. The topic will be Dating, Marriage, and Sex. Each Sunday morning Harold will be teaching on this subject and parents are invited to attend and be apart. On Wednesday nights through this series, Harold will be facilitating discussion with the material from Sunday morning…this will be just for the teens and be an opportunity for them to discuss and talk about this.

· March 8th: In place of First Friday we will be going Snow Tubing with the Campus Ministry for our “Teen/Campus Connection”. We are going to Spring Mountain (about an hour away). The cost will be $30 (for tubing and transportation). We will meet at at 11:30 AM (we will either meet at the campus house or church...I will let you know). Please eat lunch before or bring lunch with you. We will tube from 1:30-5:30. We will stop at WaWa or something like that on the way home (this is a quick stop....you can eat dinner at home or get a sub at WaWa...whatever you choose). If you want snacks on the way home or something at Spring Mountain that is on you. Please let me know THIS Sunday or Wednesday because Dave and I need to get vans for this trip. Here is the link for Spring Mountain: http://www.springmountain-fun.com/tubing.htm

· March 14-16: Youth Advance Leadership Conference. The elders and I have selected Andrew Smith, Joel Friedline, Miranda Henry, Lauren Morgan, and Kevin Price to be our Ambassadors this year. Please be in prayer about the conference and each participant.

- Please begin thinking about the April 18-20 Junior High Retreat (6th-8th grade) and the April 25-27 Senior High Retreat (9th-12th grade). More information can be found on www.manatawny.org
I am directing the Jr High Retreat this year and several people have already volunteered to help from Newark...thank you already...it looks like its going to be a great weekend!!! I would love a great turn out from Newark at both retreats! If there is interest but there are financial issues, please let me know and we can work things out...

- Also be thinking about Camp Manatawny summer sessions. This is a wonderful program and a great time for your teens! Check out the manatawny website (www.manatawny.org). The camp board of directors has a policy of "No one turned away for financial reasons" and they have "Camper Scholarships" so if there are financial issues let me know and we will take care of it.

This weekend

2008-02-06T15:50:00.000-08:00

Two things about this weekend:

- Friday night is FIRST FRIDAY! 7-8:30pm. Games, movies, snacks, basketball, volleyball....just some time to hang out!

- U of D Men's Ice Hockey game vrs. PENN STATE. THIS SATURDAY (Feb. 9) Game starts @ 5pm. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 18-under. We will meet at Fred Rust Arena (right by the Bob Carpenter Center) and buy tickets at the game. Please email, facebook, myspace, or call me (Matt) and let me know if your going....

February 2008 Update

2008-01-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

Sunday Morning Bible Class:

Senior High: February will be Dave Blackwell teaching on Prayer then in March Harold Freidline will be teaching a class on Dating and Relationships. More information to come…

Junior High: Teacher is Barry Romano

Wednesday Night: In March, Harold will be teaching and this will be a continuation of the Sunday morning Dating and Relationships class. This will be a time for discussion and interaction with the material in a casual atmosphere.

February 3: SACK THE PULPIT. Please bring in non-perishable food items for the food pantry. Bring them in a sack and place them at the front of the stage area by the pulpit. I will need help sorting and putting away the food after service if you can help!

February 8: First Friday. On the 2nd Friday! 7-8:30PM in the gym. Movies, games, ping-pong, volleyball, basketball, snacks. Come hang out and bring a friend!

February 9: U of D Ice Hockey game vrs. Penn State. 5pm Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for 18 & under. We will meet at Fred Rust Arena and we will just buy our tickets at the game.

February 23: Service Project @ Sunday Breakfast Mission. Meet @ 9:30AM @ the building. Be done around 1pmish. Lunch is provided. Please sign up so we can work out transportation.

February 29: Movie Night 7pm. More info to come…

Mark Your Calendars: Friday, March 7:Teen/Campus Connection: Snow Tubing Edition. More details to come….

On the youth ministry bulletin board there is a year-long calendar and I have marked some events on there along with Camp Manatawny sessions. Please check that out if you want to get some already planned events (such as our retreats, etc).

Youth Ministry Update: Jan. 2008

2008-01-07T13:32:00.000-08:00

· For this month on Sunday mornings, the high school class is going through the series of classes with the college and adults on this year’s theme “Loving One Another”. If you are participating in the other classes please spend time talking about the classes and how you as a family can incorporate different ideas and aspects of the theme into your daily lives.

· Saturday, January 12@ 2:30pm: Newark High School vrs. St. Mark's Varisty Boy's Basketball Game. Our very own ANDREW SMITH will be playing! Please come to Newark High School and go into the game (the entrance is the one in the large parking lot). Family and Friends are welcome. We will go to Grotto's afterwards for pizza (in the College Square shopping center where Kmart and Pathmark are…across the street from Newark high school). Bring $$ for your ticket ($4-$6 for students....Smith's help me out) and then $5 for pizza and drink (if you want something more; that is on your own)

· Friday January 18: Movie Night @ the Morgan’s. 7pm. Guys bring drinks; girls bring snacks

· Saturday January 19: Glen Rock has invited us to their place for a Mexico Reunion. This is for all Mexico 2007 team Members and people interested in the 2008 trip (no info will be given but if your wondering about the trip). We will have a Mexican dinner and a video/slideshow from the '07 trip. We will come back Sat. night. We will need you to sign up by January 13th so we can get transportation together to get up there. Sign-up on the youth ministry bulletin board (plus we need to give Glen Rock a count for food!!!)

· Saturday January 26: Service Project at Sunday Breakfast Mission. I NEED SOMEONE TO HEAD THIS UP BECAUSE I HAVE A MEETING AT CAMP MANATAWNY (transportation to SBM and back and then being there helping with the project). Meet @ Newark @ 9:00. Be at SBM by 9:30. Work till lunch (lunch provided at the Mission). Please let me know if you can head this up and PLEASE SIGN UP ON THE YOUTH MINISTRY BULLETIN BOARD SO WE CAN GET THINGS TOGETHER!!!

· Friday Febuary 1st will be the restarting of First Friday. More details to come…

December Youth Ministry Calendar

2007-11-29T08:12:00.000-08:00

- December 7th: Volunteers for Aletheia School PTFA Santa Social 6PM. If you can help out with the event or make cakes/pies for the cake walk please either call the school or day care office or get in touch with Debbie Daniels, Cheryl Kirkpatrick, or Sharon Jamison ASAP!!

- December 15th: Putting Together Christmas Baskets 9AM-12PM at the building. Every year, Newark gives out baskets of food for people who may not be able to afford to have a Christmas meal with and for their familiy. We'll be helping put those together! PLEASE SIGN-UP ON THE BULLETIN BOARD (parents are welcome to come and help as well!)

- December 15th: CHRISTMAS PARTY!!!! 6PM @ the Spellman's. Bring a gift of $10 MAX for a gift exchange (please bring something that you would be happy getting as well). More details to come! PLEASE SIGN UP SO WE CAN PLAN FOR FOOD, ETC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

- December 21: Movie Night....more info to come!

- December 24: Church and Community Christmas Eve Spaghetti Dinner and Devo: See the church bulletin for more information!

Belpre Youth Rally

2007-11-13T08:39:00.000-08:00

Information for the Belpre Youth Rally

- Chaperones: Matt Wilson, Lori Henry, Sean Henry; Signed up to go: Miranda, Ashely, Nicole, Tom, Issac, Andrew, Kyle

- Leaving Friday November 16 BY 12:30pm. Please be to the building about 12:15ish to pack the van

- Please ALREADY have eaten lunch or bring something for lunch with you.

- Please bring money for 3 meals (they will be fast food type places). Also, if you want snacks on the road (its about a 6 1/2 hour trip) please bring money for that.

- You will be staying with host families Friday and Saturday night.

- If you have not paid or given me your registration form....do it ASAP!!!!!!!!!!

- We will be back sometime Sunday evening. We will call when we are about a 1/2 hour or so out.

Youth Ministry Update October 17, 2007

2007-10-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

• This weekend is STAND YOUR GROUND!!!! Thanks for all the help and prep work…its going to be a great weekend!!!
o If you are going on Friday night to help set up, please be at the building at 6:00pm. Bring clothes for Saturday, toiletries, and sleeping materials (sleeping bag, pillow, etc). Also, PLEASE EAT DINNER BEFORE YOU COME OR BRING IT WITH YOU!! We will have snacks for the night but will not be getting dinner.
o We will be back Saturday by 9:30-10pm-ish.

• Sunday October 21st: No Bible Classes. We will meet in the gym and OVU Ambassadors (the drama group) will be performing for the Bible Class time. Adam Ellis (the speaker from the rally) will be speaking during the worship time.

• November 2: First Friday. 7-9pm. Bring a friend and come enjoy a time to hang out and have some fun. The big question is who will be the first person to beat Matt in ping pong?!?!

• November 3: Hayride & Bonfire. Location: Fair Hill Stables. 4 pm till whenever. Hayride leaves at 4:15 SHARP! Roast hot dogs & marshmallows and Music by Steve Mahoney & Friends. Cost: $4 for 12 and up; $3 for 12 and under (FREE for 2yrs and under). Sign up at the Campus Ministry board by October 28!!!!

• November 10: Sunday Breakfast Mission. We will be helping put together Thanksgiving boxes. Meet at the building 9:30 AM. We will eat lunch at the SBM. Be back by 1:30-2:00.

• November 11: Rob Bell’s “Everything is Spiritual” showing and discussion. This was his talk he gave in Philadelphia last year that some of you went to and some of you have wanted to see. 6:30pm @ the campus house

• November 16-18: Belpre Youth Rally. Please sign up at the YM bulletin board and get a registration sheet from Matt. Need to know by November 1st if you are going.

• November 20th: Sunday Breakfast Mission will be handing out the Thanksgiving boxes. If you are free (I know this is a Tuesday) to help; sign up at the YM Bulletin board. We will leave in the morning and be done early afternoon.

• If you are interesting in helping to serve a Thanksgiving meal at the Sunday Breakfast mission to the homeless please contact Janice Laymon at (302) 656-8542 ASAP. A lot of people help so call in advance.

• Newsboys are coming to DE for a concert & Rob Bell is coming to Philly again. Details on the YM bulletin board if you are interested.

Reminder: First Friday

2007-10-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

First Friday will happen on Oct. 12th not Oct. 5th.... It will be from 7-9pm

Update 9/23

2007-09-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

- On Monday Sept 24, I am going to Ohio Valley University to speak for a few days and then heading to the Zoe Leadership Conference in Nashville. I will be back on Oct. 5th late. So here are a few "in place of me" updates: On Sunday Sept 30; there will be a combined teen class in the morning. On Wed. Sept 26 and Wed. Oct. 3, Don (from the campus ministry) and James Lanson will be teaching the teen Wed. night class. They will be continue the series of classes that we started last week called "The Perfect Life? Sin, the Soul, and Kingdom Living". First Friday will be overseen by Dave Blackwell this month since my flight won't be getting in till 10:30 on Friday.

- Senior High Bible Class: Starting on Oct. 7, Terry Dockins will be teaching a class called "Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ". This is based off a Dallas Willard book but will be a great class with multiple learning experiences. I hope everyone will come and be apart.
There is a meeting about Volunteer staff for 1st Friday RIGHT AFTER CHURCH THIS SUNDAY (9/23) up front. It will be short and sweet and to the point. If you can help please be there.

- Oct. 5: 1st Friday: We had 40 teens show up last time. It was a lot of fun! Come play in the gym, play some games, have some snacks and just enjoy and hang out. 7:00-9:00PM.

- Oct. 12: Teen/Campus Connection: At the campus house. Starts at 6:30pm This will be a time for the teens and the campus ministry to get to know each other. Come for a fun night together and get to know our college students in BHC!!!!

- Oct. 20: STAND YOUR GROUND YOUTH RALLY!!!!!!!! Please see Gretchen Mahoney for a registration form ASAP. They need to be in by Oct. 10 so you wont get a late fee. Check out the website at www.syg07.com

- We are going to need to house around 30 people after Stand Your Ground from Sat night till Sunday morning (bring them to Bible Class). If you are willing to house some please see Matt or sign up Sunday with Matt. The speaker from the youth rally will be speaking on Sunday morning and he is bringing some teens from his youth group. Also, a drama group from Ohio Valley University will be performing in the morning and will need housing. We will provide breakfast at the building.

- Monday Night Basketball is cancelled for the time being. If you would have interest in leading this please talk with Matt ASAP

- LONG RANGE: Rob Bell coming to Philly Nov. 26. Information to get tickets is on the youth ministry bulletin board or go to http://www.godsarentangrytour.com/

September Youth Ministry Update

2007-08-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

• Bible Classes: Junior High (6th-8th grade) will continue to meet in room 402 for Sunday morning class. Senior High (9th-12th grade) will meet in room 406 (instead of 404) for the fall classes starting on September 9th. Matt will be teaching the Justice Mission for September and starting in October Terry Dockins will be teaching. The Wed night class will continue to meet in Room 404.
• September 3: Church-wide Labor Day Picnic- Starts at 3pm in the Picnic area beside the People’s House. Bring food and drinks to share. Music by Steve Mahoney & Friends
• September 14 First Friday BEGINS!! (I know, I know…it’s the 2nd Friday but go with me on this). Start at 7pm. This will be a time to just hang out and play in the gym and have some fun together. We will be making homemade pizzas for dinner! Bring a friend and come out and have some fun!
• September 21-22: Many of you worked at Camp Manatawny this summer. There will be a staff reunion going on at Camp. Check out the Camp website (www.manatawny.org) for more details. Also, that weekend will be the Fall Festival and Booster Dinner. There is information up on the youth ministry bulletin board. Activities begin at 2PM and the dinner is from 4:30-5:30PM. There will also be a time of singing together (I heard the song leader is pretty awesome ) and OVU Express will be performing as well.
• September 29: We will be going to the Sunday Breakfast Mission to work down there. Times for that is TBA and I will let you know ASAP…

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!
o Oct 5: 1st Friday at the Building
o Oct. 11: Shane & Shane Concert (check the youth group board for details and signing up)
o Oct. 20: STAND YOUR GROUND 2007!!! We’re going to need help and I would love for everyone to be there! Check out www.syg07.com

Backpack Giveaway

2007-08-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the Backpack Giveaway at the Sunday Breakfast Mission. Thanks to everyone who donated and helped out. Over 1700 bookbags were given away!!!

Update August 1

2007-08-01T13:27:00.000-07:00

- August 5-8 Vacation Bible School. If you would like to help (there may be some last minute jobs) please see Gretchen Mahoney

- August 8 there will be no bible class. That will be the last VBS night and we will be having a cookout.

- August 10-11 Beach Trip
Friday night: Come to building by 8pm. We'll stay at the building for the night & watch movies, play games, have a devo, etc. There will be several area churches joining us!

Saturday: Get up early and take a bus to Rehobeth Beach, Delaware and stay at the beach all day.

You will need to bring sleeping bag, toiletries, games (if you want for Friday night), drinks (for Friday night), stuff for the beach (modest bathing suit, sun tan lotion, towel, you know...beach stuff), $3-5 to help with gas for the bus, and $$$$ for lunch

Need to know by August 8th if you're going...

- August 18 Back pack giveaway at Sunday Breakfast Mission in Wilmington
We will be leaving the building at 8:00AM. Please plan to meet at the back of the building near the People's House (there is a wedding that day so I would like to not get in the way). They are saying that we will be giving out bags from 9-1. Please sign up at the bulletin board so we can get transportation together.

- August 25 event still in the works. details going...

- STARTING IN SEPTEMBER 1st Fridays. This will be at the building the first friday of the month. There will be pizza, snacks, games, and time to hang out and a devo. This will be a great opportunity to bring a friend to come and hang out and also get to meet some of the jr. high students from Aletheia. More details coming. The first one will be Sept. 14 (I know thats the 2nd Friday but school at Aletheia begins on the 6th and the first friday is too soon...from then on it will be the first Friday)

- Sept. 21-22: Many of you worked at Camp Manatawny this summer. There will be a staff reunion going on at Camp. Check out the Camp website (www.manatawny.org) for more details. Also that weekend, on the 22nd will be the Fall Festival and Booster Dinner. Please plan to join and check the church news bulletin board and the Manatawny website for more information...

- MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!!!! STAND YOUR GROUND 2007 October 22 @ Camp Manatawny. We're going to need some help getting things together for it so let me know if you can help. Check out www.syg07.com for more details. Registration info will be coming. I will need helpers on Friday the 21st setting up at camp...let me know if you can go and help!

Summer Youth Series THIS SUNDAY!!!

2007-07-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

SYS is hosted by the West Chester church of Christ this Sunday (7/22). We will be meeting at the building at 3:00pm. We will be back around 9:30pm. Please bring a few bucks for gas....

Jr High 2 and Mexico pictures

2007-07-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Here are pictures from Jr. high 2 week at Camp Manatawny (if your interesting):

http://community.webshots.com/user/jrhigh2?vhost=community

Here are over 500 pictures from the Mexico trip:

http://www.flickr.com/groups/teammexico2007/

Mexico Mission Trip Picture Update 6/23/07

2007-06-22T22:07:00.001-07:00

Photobucket Album

Mexico Mission Trip 6/22/07

2007-06-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know that we made it into San Antonio safely. The plan for the rest of the night is to have dinner and then have our devo. It was a great week but looking forward to being home. Thanks for the prayers and continued prayers as we travel tomorrow.

Thanks for all the encouraging comments!!!

Mexico Mission Trip 6/21/07

2007-06-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

Today was an interesting and different day. Rick Owens took us to what he calls "the real Mexico" to spend the day with a church and community about 2 hours south of Saltillo. Part of the travel was about a 30 mile on a dirt road...

This was a very poor village. Rick said that these people live off the land and that is how you survive. I added a picture so you could get a taste of the area.

When we pulled up to the church we were greeted by many people. We had lunch, played soccer and volleyball, and just enjoyed the day experiencing life in real Mexico. This was a sobering experience.

On the way home Barry told us that the church's contribution was $15 a week. Most of this money went to help out with the poor people in the community (the rich were the ones with the goats, bulls, and pretty much any farm animal). So we took up a collection on the bus and people gave what they wanted from their spending money. As Barry said tonight in 5 minutes, 52 Americans (mostly teenagers) collected enough money to help the poor for a year in that village (about $800). As Barry said again, "to much that is given, much is required".

The experience of the day ran through our heads throughout the rest of the day whether at dinner or at devo or in conversation. This experience today was a life changing one.

Tomorrow we are leaving in the morning around 7:00 AM to head back to San Antonio. we plan on stopping at a market in Neuvo Laredo and having lunch there with Paco and his family (the minister of the church that we went to on Sunday).

Pray for our travels and safety tomorrow and if you would begin (or continue) to pray for Rick and Sherry Owens (the missionaries we are working with) and Mexico. This week we have experienced the good of Mexico (standard of living wise) and also the "real" Mexico. We are a blessed people but as God called to the Israelists, the same words echo today: you are blessed to be a blessing. To much is given; much is expected.

Mexico Mission Trip Pics updated 6/20

2007-06-21T04:57:00.001-07:00

Photobucket Album

Mexico Mission Trip 6/20/07

2007-06-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

Today we continued to work on the walls on the second floor. We filled alot of columns so that was a lot of mixing of concrete and carrying buckets of concrete to the second floor. Everyone worked hard today. This week's weather has been unusually cooler and we have had some rain all three days. Today we worked straight through the rain singing and having a good time but still working very hard. Today was our last day working on this site because Rick Owens (the missionary) wanted to take us to a town and spend some time in a community that he has built a church building in. He has only ever taking one other group there so this will be a special day. Since it was our last day, we exchanged gifts and contact info and shared hugs, songs, and gifts. The elders that were on the trip prayed over the minister and the ministries that will go on at the site we worked on. It was a moving experience....

We were invited to another church in town (where the church we were working on meets until this building is done) for Wed. night service. We sang, prayed and had a lesson and then enjoyed a meal together. Afterwards some of the team played soccer outside. Let's just say the Mexicans are very good at soccer... It was a great night to fellowship and to enjoy each others company.

Continued prayers for the group and the things that are going on in Mexico...

Mexico Mission Trip 6/19/07

2007-06-19T15:03:00.001-07:00

Today was a good day. We woke up and began to finish the 2nd floor walls. Within two hours we had a whole wall done. The theme of the day was block parties with moving about 700 blocks today. That's one day... We had a truck with 1200 blocks come in on Monday and we have two stacks left. We have laid alot of block! Near the end of the day we began to pour the columns.

As we were pouring a large rain storm moved in and we had to cut the day short. The plan tonight is to have subs at the hotel and have our devo and sit around and relax. The group is going together and working very hard. Everyone should be very proud of this group. More pictures were added...enjoy.

Continue the prayers....they are greatly felt!

Photobucket Album

Mexico Mission Trip 6/18/07

2007-06-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today was day one of working with the church. Our building is about 15 min. from our hotel. Rick said we have the best church with the best location with the best cooks. I think I hear him say that every year. But the statement is really true. It is a great place to work. People are so friendly and grateful for us being there.

Our main job is laying block and building walls. It's going well so far. We worked a 12 hour day today. Barry is a slave driver :) Jk...Actually, Rick had some things that had to get done today so we honored that request and kept going. We are all very tired but the work felt rewarding today.

The rest of the day was going out to eat and having our devo.

Everyone is enjoying themselves and working hard. The group is growing closer each moment and we work very well as a team. God has truly blessed us so far beyond what we need. Everyone sends their love and thanks for the comments and keep them coming....

Here are some pictures from the first day (Sunday). More from today will be up soon (I'm going to get some up but I need to go to bed....)

http://s108.photobucket.com/albums/n10/mwilson1382/

Please continue to keep us in your prayers.....

Mexico Mission Trip 6/17/07

2007-06-17T19:49:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Saltillo, Coahulia!!!

The day began with worship with some of the Mexican Christians in Neuvo Lardeo. It was a great day. We got to see Paco again who is the minister that we have been in contact with since we started working in Mexico over 10 years ago. Paco has started a new church on the other side of town because the church that he was at was full so there was a need for another church on the other side of town.

A woman was baptized at the end of the service. It was wonderful to experience that together. we sang songs, prayed together in both Spanish and English....it was a neat opportunity.

We got to the hotel this evening after the bus trip down from Neuvo Lardeo. On the bus we played cards, talked, slept, and watched Remember the Titans.

The hotel is very nice and people have been great. Rick Owens came and visited with us for a moment during our devo. After the devo, we went and had dinner and now we're getting ready for bed.

We have an early morning tomorrow. According to Rick we have the best place to work with the best job and the best cooks. It's setting up for a great week.

I will have pictures posted later on....

Continue offering your prayers....

Mexico Mission Trip 6/16/07

2007-06-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Larado, Texas! All the groups (newark, Glen Rock, and 3 Copt) made it down safely to San Antonio and we got in to Larado at 5pm. The gelling of the teams seems to be going very well so far. There is a lot of interaction between the groups. The plan is to relax, have dinner together, have a devotional, and get to bed. Tomorrow morning we had into Mexico and will be worshipping with a congregation in Neuvo Laredo.

I will try to update daily. Leave messages for a person or the group and I will get the message to them....

Thanks for the prayers and we ask for continual prayers this week....

MEXICO MEETING AND TEACHER NEEDED FOR ONE WEEK

2007-06-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

June calendars are available on the youth ministry bulletin board
Mexico meeting on June 10th right after service
Mexico Mission Effort: June 16-23...please be praying about the work going on and as we go and come back...
I am in need of someone to teach the Teen class on Wed. July 11th. Please let me know if you can teach...

Update 5/30

2007-05-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is doing well!

TONIGHT Ron "Big Mac" McFarland will be speaking at the Dinner & Devo about his trip to China.
THIS SATURDAY: Starting at 9AM Bruce Wallace asked for our help in sanding down and repainting the big school bus. It will be most of the morning (we won't get it all done but it will be a start). Weather permitting of course. Please wear old clothes!
Sunday morning: Senior High Bible Class: Jim Wilson will be teaching. I will be in prison (Tom Deadman asked me to speak down at the Symrna prison) :)
MEXICO MISSION MEETING This Sunday after morning service. If you are going YOU NEED TO BE THERE!!!
Next week: Camp SonShine at Manatawny (www.manatawny.org)

Have a good week!

Update 5/24/07

2007-05-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

This Sunday May 27: there will be a combined Junior and Senior High class in the 8th grade room. Dave Blackwell will be the teacher.
Memorial Day church-wide picnic on Monday May 28. See the bulletin for more details.
June 2: There will be two service activities going on at the building: 1) the Car Care Ministry will be going on and 2) Bruce Wallace asked for our help (parents included) with sanding and repainting the big school bus. We will begin at 9AM and go till around lunch time. Plus wear old clothes for either of these. This again is weather permitting...
MEXICO MISSION TEAM: Our meeting is June 3rd in the library right after Sunday morning worship service. I believe the meeting will take about 1 1/2 hours. We will eat pizza together sometime during the meeting. Bring $5 for pizza and drinks.

We will be talking about the following:

flight schedules
phone numbers you can be reached at
Itinerary
Logistics to & from the airport
money
medical forms
minor consent forms
passport (bring your passport. I need to photo copy it)
what to wear
any questions you have

Week of May 14th

2007-05-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks for everyone who has been asking about my wrist. I was working on some stuff for the Run around at Aletheia and I opened a window at the bottom of the People's House and broke a window and my hand went through and I cut my wrist in three places. No stitches but alot of soreness. It's healing up pretty well....could have been alot worse then it was...

- Next two Wednesday nights: Teens will meet in the Multipurpose Room with the adults. next week will be a presentation by Ron "Big Mac" McFarland about his work in China

- Movie Night May 18th (this Friday) @ 7pm at the Mahoney's house. guys bring drinks; girls bring snacks.

- Church Wide Picnic: Memorial Day. See bulletin for details.

- No basketball on May 21st and May 28th. Start up again June 4th.

-Register for your Summer Session at camp Manatawny. www.manatawny.org

- Summer calendars will be up next week.

May Calendar update

2007-04-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

- The May calendar is on the youth ministry bulletin board!

- Silent Auction for Summer Mission Efforts is on May 5! We need helpers for set up and cleaning up as well as some helpers to help with things during the auction. Please let me know if you can help. We also need items from local businesses and also services like babysitting or yard work or oil changes or something like that. If you want to donate please fill out a blue form on Sunday!!

- Graduation Dinner. TUESDAY May 8th in the multipurpose room. We will have a combined dinner with the college graduates as well. Please let me know if your coming by THIS WEDNESDAY!!!!! The dinner will be from 7-9pm.

- Family Community Night Wednesday May 9th. There will be no classes and we will be enjoying a night of getting together with people from our community. We will have hot dogs, chips, cookies, and drinks along with moon bounces, obstacle courses, softball, baksetball, and jousting. Please come and enjoy the night with people in our community.

- Saturday May 12. Service Project at Amazing Grace Ministries. Meet at 9 AM and we will work till around lunch and then get some lunch afterwards. Bring some money for pizza. Please sign up so I can arrange rides.

- Friday May 18th. MOVIE NIGHT @ 7pm @ the Mahoney's. Movie TBA. Guys bring drinks; Girls bring snacks.

May 28th. Church Wide Memorial Day Picinic.

Bible Study on Sunday morning at 9:30 AM.
Senior High class: The Last Eyewitness: Looking at the Gospel story through the writings of John. Teacher: Matt Wilson.
Junior High: Meeting God; Trusting God Teachers: Ben Smith and Barry Romono.

Bible Study on Wednesday night at 7:00pm.
"Engaging Our World": Evangelism in Today's Society, "The Justice Mission", and "Visioning for God's Shalom". Teacher: Matt Wilson

Dinner and Devo Wednesday May 30th @ 6:00pm

Baksetball every Monday night 7-8:30/9:00ish

As you can see I have a weekend open every month with nothing going on. That is on purpose so that you will hopefully take advantage and do something with your teenagers and enjoy the gift of family. I know we have lots of stuff going on and different situations in everyones life but make an effort to take some time from your schedule and spend it with your teenagers (if you dont already). Hopefully you'll take advantage....

MEXICO MISSION INFO

2007-04-22T15:19:00.000-07:00

If you need info about the Mexico trip, please go to www.newarkchurch.com
Then click on "Missions"
Then click "Mexico"
Then click "2007"

All the information for that trip is on there including what to bring, a schedule, where we are going, and much, much, more!

The Silent auction is May 5th! We need items and helpers!!!!!!!!

This week and Retreats at Manatawny

2007-04-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Junior High Retreat is this weekend and the Senior High Retreat is next weekend at Camp Manatawny. Information can be found on www.manatawny.org
This Wed. night there will not be the Kid's Night. Next month we will have our Community Family Night. More details to come. We will have regular bible study at 7pm.
Harold Friedline will be teaching the class (I will not be there Wed. night).
On Saturday night we are going to have a movie night at my condo (101 Margit Court Newark) at 7:00 pm. We will be watching "The Pursuit of Happyness". Girls bring snacks; Guys bring Drinks.

3/29 Update

2007-03-28T22:35:00.000-07:00

We were planning on going to see "Amazing Grace" in theaters however there is only an afternoon showing. So we need to reschedule the movie night. Lets reschedule the movie night for the 20th of April.

The Junior and Senior High Retreat registrations are due if your planning on attending those at Manatawny. The registration is available at the youth ministry board or at www.manatawny.org

The Junior High retreat is april 20-22 and the Senior High Retreat is April 27-29.

We are planning on going to the Work Day at Manatawny on April 14th. We will leave the building around 7:30 AM and be back in time for the Blue Rocks game (if you chose to go to the game). Bring a few dollars to put in for pizza for lunch. Please sign up on the youth ministry bulletin board in the lobby. There are more details there as well.

Sat. Service Project

2007-03-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

I have been waiting to hear back from SBM but never heard anything so we are going to meet at the building at 9AM on Saturday and w/ the college students (who will be having a lock-in Fri. night) we will do some jobs around the building that needed to be done. We will be done around 11:30ish. Please wear old clothes. See ya there....

Wed. night class

2007-03-07T10:44:00.000-08:00

As I write this I am stuck in the Columbus, OH airport. My morning flight to Philadelphia has been cancelled and I have a flight out that should get into Philly at 7:35pm. However, there is a chance that flight might get cancelled.

Keep me in your thoughts....

Saying this, the teen class will meet in the multi purpose room tonight because I will not be able to make it back there.

As of right now the service project is on for this Saturday, however I have not heard back from Sunday Breakfast Mission yet. I will keep everyone updated as things come together.......

The Tornadoes in Enterprise, AL

2007-03-02T11:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Adam Ellis (my friend I have been with all week taking this grad class) had been on the phone all day with concerns for his family, wife, and daughter. His parents live in Enterprise, AL and his wife and daughter were in that town yesterday morning. Thankfully everything is okay with his family and his wife and daughter were back in Montegery, AL before the storms, etc hit but close calls on it. This is an update on this with his family and things going on down there:

The Tornadoes in Enterprise, AL

My parents (Keith and Lynn Ellis) live in Enterprise, AL. My pregnant wife and my daughter were visiting them this week. Yesterday (Thursday) morning, Mom, Dana and Emma went to Montgomery to help my sister shop around and get ready for her upcoming wedding. My family is all fine, and I am extremely thankful. Yet, every time I have said that prayer in the last 24 hours, I have been struck by the fact that there are those who don't get to pray that prayer. One of the teenagers who died in the High School went to the church that my Dad preaches at. My Dad was called on to tell her family that she had died. My Dad's strength continually amazes me. Another girl (who I know pretty well) was injured, but will live. The school followed the correct procedure and had the student gather in a hallway for safety. Those one one side were killed while those on the other side were buried in debris, but lived. I don't have a neat theological formula that helps explain that. I'm thankful that my family was spared that kind of loss. I hurt for the parents who sent their kids to school, never to speak to them again. I hurt for the families that are sitting in hospital rooms of their children. I hurt when I think of their confusion in relation to the God they placed their faith in. I don't think they need answers (and I'm not sure there are any answers that would help). I think they need love. I think they need the support of their faith communities. I think they need our prayer for the peace that passes understanding. Please join me in lifting this community up in prayer.
AE

If you guys would please keep this in prayer. It's been a interesting and weird 48 hours with all that has been going on. Adam says he talked with his Dad and his Dad is broken down right now...

Thanks for the prayers and see you all again next Wed.

YOUTH/CAMPUS GET TOGETHER

2007-02-19T12:44:00.000-08:00

THIS SATURDAY!!!

We will be getting together with the college students.

Location: Campus House (17 E. Park Place, Newark)
Time: 6:00 PM
Dinner, Games, Hanging Out, etc
Bring some games with you if you want to...

updated Feb Caldendar and Invisible Children

2007-02-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

Changes to the youth ministry calendar...

*** Every Sunday: Bible Study 9:30 AM***
*** Every Monday: Basketball 7-9 PM ***

7: Bible Study 7PM

9-10: Help @ Manatawny (See Gretchen Mahoney)

14: Bible Study 7PM

15: Invisible Children Screening/ 6:30PM

16 Movie Night @ the Morgan's (Guys: Drinks; Girls: Snacks) 7 PM

21: Kid's Night 7-8 pm (set up at 6:30pm)

24 Service Project, Dinner, & Games with Campus Ministry

28: Dinner & Devo 6:00 pm

INFORMATION FOR INVISIBLE CHILDREN

- This is the organization this opportunity comes out of: www.invisiblechildren.com
- This is apart of their World Tour 2007
Feb. 15 at 6:30 PM
Trabant Theater, Trabant University Center: University of Delaware
See the Movie and then afterwards is a Q & A Session with a represetative from Invisible Children.

More will be talked about on Feb. 11th during the morning service. You can go to the website and get information. I will say that the movie does not sugar coat anything and this is the real experience going on in Uganda. Some of the scenes are disturbing but this is real life and the story of these people. This event is to build awareness and to partner in trying to make a difference... This is a free event so bring people with you. You will be moved by this event...

Movie Night and Kid's Night

2007-01-10T15:52:00.000-08:00

Friday Jan. 12: MOVIE NIGHT @ the Morgan's. we're watching Invisible (yeah I know Eagles movie for the playoffs). Guys bring drinks; Girls bring snacks. Starts at 7pm

Wed. Jan. 17 Kid's Night in the gym. Be there at 6:30pm. Kids from Apartments will be here at 7pm. We'll be done by 8:15pm.

December Calendar

2006-11-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

Dec. 1st MOVIE NIGHT: 7pm @ the Morgan's. Guys bring drinks; Girls bring snacks. We will be watching "Cars".

Dec. 6th Cookies for Inmates: 9 AM-12 PM. Terrific Tom needs help with the hundreds of dozens of cookies that the prison ministry gives out to inmates for the holidays. We will meet at 8:30 am at the church and then help out with the sorting. The sorting will be going on at the Paniel Methodist Church in Newport.

Dec. 9th Service Project: We will most likely be going down to the Sunday Breakfast Mission. I am working out details and will give updates as they come.

Dec. 15th (DATE CHANGE) CHRISTMAS PARTY: At the Guibardo's. We will have a make your own pasta meal. Please bring a gift (under $10) to have for a gift exchange.

Dec. 20th Kid's Night: at the building 6:30pm-8:30pm. The program will go from 7-8.

Dec. 27th Amazing Grace Food Boxes: 9:30 AM. We will help put together food boxes for the needy and hand them out in the early afternoon.

Calendars and details are availible at the youth ministry board in the lobby.

Sunday Breakfast Mission Thanksgiving boxes

2006-11-20T19:18:00.000-08:00

We will go down to the SBM to hand out Thanksgiving boxes on Tuesday morning. We are leaving the building at 9AM and be back around lunch time.

If you cant go this time cause of school we will go again before Christmas and also be helping out with putting them together for Christmas as well as helping them clean up after the holidays so you will definently have plenty of opportunities to help out in inner city Wilmington.

Sunday November 12th

2006-11-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

A few things about this sunday:

- After service we will be packing boxes for children in Haiti. We will have lunch and then go to the Dollar store and get gifts. Then we will wrap the boxes and the cost for sending them to the country is $10 (the gifts in a shoe box usually cost around $10-15 as well). Please bring a lunch and meet in the multi purpose building. Contact Mike Phillips if you got questions.

- After service as well there will be a meeting for people going to the Gulf Coast during January. If you would like to be involved with the Gulf Coast but will be helping with xmas boxes go to the multi purpose room and I will bring info to you while we are packing boxes.

- If you know you will be going on the trip in January there is an opportunity to rack some leaves & get some cash at Dave and Angie Blackwell's neighbor's home. Please contact Dave and Angie at 302-369-1901 if you would like to do this. You will just need to rake no need to bag them (there is a compost pile behind the fence). Talk to Dave and Angie if you're interested....

November

2006-10-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

- November 3-5 Daughters of the King Conference. Fairfax church of Christ (Fairfax, VA). CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICAL WEBSITE! See Lori Henry for more information.

- November 10th: Teen/Campus Connection. @ the Campus House 7:00 pm-11:00 pm. No need to bring anything; come and bring a friend along and lets have some fun with the U of D students!

- November 12: We will be making Christmas boxes to send to Haiti on Sunday November 12th after services. We will have a brown bag lunch after worship, and will go to a dollar store to purchase items for the boxes. Each box will need $10 for shipping plus items to place in the box. Please make checks out to Newark Church of Christ for the $10 shipping fee. Donations of shoe boxes and wrapping paper are welcome. For questions or more information please see Mike Phillips.

- November 15: Kid's Night in Salem Village. Be at the building at 6:30pm and we'll head over to the apartments. Program is from 7-8pm. If you were assigned an area of the night to head up make sure your ready. If you werent assigned a task; come and hang out with the kids!! See Matt or Anna if you have questions.

- November 17-19 Belpre Youth Rally. Location: OVU (Vienna, WV). Cost: $Cost: $40 (Includes registration, housing,
& transportation). Sign up by Nov. 5th!!!

- We will also be going down to the Sunday Breakfast Mission to help with Thanksgiving boxes. More details to come...

STAND YOUR GROUND '06 THIS WEEKEND!!!!

2006-10-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is STAND YOUR GROUND!

We will leave from the building at 8am. If you signed up there is a spot for you. If you didnt sign up then there is not and you need to get a hold of me ASAP.....

Cost is $20 for those who signed up....its going to be a great day!!!

There is a schedule up at www.manatawny.org (look under guestbook).

Also, other details @ http://www.made2006.com/

Any questions please let me know......

FRIDAY MOVIE NIGHT

2006-10-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

There will be a movie night at the Morgan's (Dwight & Kim).

FRIDAY NIGHT OCTOBER 13!!!!!

Time: 7pm

There will be a discussion time after the movie lead by Harold Freidline.

Food provided (just bring yourself).

Just kidding

2006-09-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

Ok because everyone was tied up last Sat. we are going to have the movie night THis FRIDAY (9/29).

Dinner will be at 6:30 and movie at 7:30

See other info at the last post....

see you there

Movie Night THIS SATURDAY 9/23

2006-09-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

We will be having a movie night at the campus house (17 E. Park Place, Newark).
Dinner is at 6pm; Movie at 7pm.
Bring some snacks (healthy and junk food)
We will be watching End of the Spear.
Go to Plugged In for a review of this movie (the page is linked here).
Parents: Plugged In is a movie, music, and pop culture review and discussion website put on by Focus on the Family.

This weekend

2006-09-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

- Parking cars for Oktoberfest is cancelled

- Camp Sonshine is this weekend at Camp Manatawny.

- Because of Camp Sonshine and the amount of Senior High students involved we will have a combined Sunday morning class in the Jr. High room.

REMEMBER B-BALL on Monday nights 7-9pm

Updates for beginning of Sept.

2006-08-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

From Matt: I will be at Lipscomb University taking a grad school class till September 6th. Please keep me in your prayers as I travel.

- Volunteers (young and old) are needed to help park cars for Oktoberfest on September 15-16. There is a sign up sheet for two hour shifts on the youth ministry bulletin board. Proceeds benefit the youth ministry. See Effie Blackburn or Matt Wilson for questions.

- A volunteer (s) is needed to oversee the parking on Saturday night. Please see Matt Wilson if you can help.

- Camp Sonshine at Manatawny. September 15-17. Volunteers are needed to help with this day camp for children with disabilities. Information is on the youth ministry bulletin board or at www.manatawny.org. Please sign up on the youth ministry bulletin board. This is for high school students, college students, and adults.

- Monday Night Basketball begins on September 11th. 7:00-9:00pm in the gym.

Service Project This Saturday!!!!!

2006-08-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Back to School Community Backpack Giveaway

Saturday August 19th from 9:00am-1:00pm

Location & sponsor: Sunday Breakfast Mission
110 N. Poplar Street
Wilmington, DE

We will meet and LEAVE THE BUILDING at 8:15am!!!

Over 2,000 backpack and over 600 jackets will be given out to under privileged children

Sign up at the Youth Ministry board

Questions: See Matt Wilson

BEACH!! BEACH!! BEACH!!

2006-08-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

Beach Rally August 11 & 12

Starting: August 11th at 7pm (Friday Night Games & Rally)
August 12: Go to Rehoboth Beach for the Day!
Cost: $3 for gas & some money for food at the beach

Friday night: basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, football, movies, games, etc...
Saturday morning: Get up early and head to the BEACH!!!

What to Bring: games, beach clothes, beach supplies, sleeping bag, clothes to play in the gym with, snacks & drinks for
Friday Night

2006-08-04T18:19:00.000-07:00

Newark's Vacation Bible School starts Sunday night August 6th till Wednesday August 9th. There are still some needs for this event and need for more volunteers. Please see Gretchen Mahoney if you can help out!!!

There will be no Tuesday night PEG because of the VBS....

2006-07-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

July 26 – Philadelphia, PA
Theatre of Living Arts
334 South Street
Door: 7:00 pm
Show: 8:00 pm

the rest

2006-07-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

- Reminder about P.E.G on Tuesday nights from 6-8 at the Soule's (minus August 8th which VBS will be going on).

- Sign up for the Summer Youth Series on the youth ministry board.

- BEACH RALLY: August 11-12. Details and sign up on the YM board.

New Orleans experience

2006-06-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

Well I'm in New Orleans for the week working at the Tammany Oaks church of Christ in Mandeville, LA. A cool thing happended on Sunday. Cory (a youth minister at 3 Copt C of C) and I were walking in the French Quarter and we were walking by Cafe du Monde when all of sudden a limo pulls up right beside me. The door opens at out walks Nicolas Cage. He was filming a movie in town and he was going to have a coffee at the Cafe. It was pretty cool. He's kind of tall and looked really out of it. It was pretty neat experience. So now him and I are friends....ok not really.

Another amazing experience happened today:
I was working with Dan, who works out of the diaster relief warehouse, and we were delivering bread to people and organizations throughout the New Orleans area. We began to drive through the same area where I worked in Dec/Jan and not much improvement. Some businesses open but nothing really different. Then we went farther into the town. We pulled into what looked like an abandoned Trailer park. Out walks a woman from a trailer that had trees and debrie all over (on top and bottom) of the trailer. The lady can not get any money from FEMA and so she must live there alone in the trailer park. She has no car and no job so she is stuck. So Dan delievers some food to her every few days and checks on here. He told he knows personally about 200 people who are in a similar situation.....

I know there are alot of stories coming out of New Orleans right now and most and many aren't good. and I know that the mayor and others are trying to act like the city is back and the Saints about to play in N.O. isn't going to help the situation but this is a hurting city. This is still a damaged hurt area. So I ask you to do something for me. Come down and help. Be apart of this work. Your help is needed. Keep praying for them and try to come. If you can't, then do this for me: Please make a difference where you live. Clothe the naked. Feed the hungry. Comfort the hurting. We all see situations maybe in our own neighborhood. Be the difference in the world. Be a person that when people think of good things in the world they think of you and your actions. Blessings on you as you continue to partner with God in this beautiful dream for the world....

For information about coming down to new Orleans and helping go to http://www.whereisawjesus.blogspot.com/

Summer calenders, P.E.G. & the Village

2006-05-31T08:23:00.000-07:00

- Summer calenders are available at the youth ministry bulletin board. You can also download a copy at the link to the right under Calender.

- P.E.G. is starting up on June 20th. This will happen every Tuesday night from 6pm-8pm at the Soule's (I will get directions). Bring some snacks and a bathing suit and some games. Each week we will spend some time hanging out (the Soule's have a pool) and then have some food (eat) and then have a short devotional (God) together. This will be rain or shine (if it rains we'll be in the pool house playing games, watching movies, etc). Plan to come and bring friends!!! Good way to begin conversations...

- MAKE SURE YOU SIGN UP FOR CAMP MANATAWNY (www.manatawny.org)

- We will have Kid's Night in the Village on June 14th from 6:30-8:30. Be there tonight so we can get our plans and program together!!!

Kid's Night in the Villiage and Pictures

2006-05-14T05:35:00.000-07:00

- There are pictures from the Kiss the Pig Contest and also from the Silent Auction and Taste of New Orleans Dinner on the Photo Albumn (Click Here to Go to it!)

- Wednesday Night is our first Kid's Night in the Village. We are meeting at the building at 6:30pm to go over to Salem Village and begin the monthly VBS night with them. The program is from 7:00pm-8:00pm. After clean up we will be back at the building by 8:30pm. Contact Anna Henry if you're interested in helping out!! This will be our Wednesday night class this week!

U of D Baseball Game

2006-05-12T07:18:00.000-07:00

On Saturday May 13

U of D Baseball Game
At the U of D Baseball Stadium (behind the football stadium)
1:00pm
Cost: $4
We'll meet at the ballpark and then go in!

See you there...

CAR WASH THIS SATURDAY!!

2006-05-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

We are having a car wash this Saturday from 9:00 am - 12:00pm. Money will go towards our Gulf Coast Trips this summer. Even if you are not going on a trip come and help out with the car wash.

If the weather is rainy we will not having it....Check back here for weather cancellations.

Coming up soon!

2006-04-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

- APARTMENT RUN TONIGHT!!!!!!

- Senior High Retreat: This weekend at Manatawny. we'll leave at 5pm from the building. www.manatawny.org for more information

- Art Show: Art for the Sake of Art at the campus house 2:00pm-5:00pm on Sunday April 30th.

- Need some workers for our Family Night on Wed. May 3 from 6:00pm-8:00pm. Need people to run activity booths and the Moon Bounce, Jousting, and Adventure Maze.

- Car Wash on Saturday May 6th at 9:00am WEATHER PERMITTING!!!! Proceeds go to Gulf Coast Trip!

Family Dinner & Movie Night

2006-04-10T14:42:00.000-07:00

Friday April 14
Dinner begins at 6pm; Movie begins at 7pm
Cost $2 per person (for pizza, drinks, chips, movie, and popcorn)

Donald Miller and Car Wash

2006-04-03T04:54:00.000-07:00

- For those going to hear Donald Miller at Messiah College: Talk with Gail Friedline about transportation information.

- Car Wash for the Gulf Coast Relief Effort will be on Saturday April 8th beginning at 9am in the front parking lot of the building. The money raised will go towards your trip. Tell your family and friends to come and get their car wash.

Final Day Gulf Coast Relief Effort

2006-04-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, the rumors are true. Delaware did a house in a day. An Entire House!
We really are awesome, and by 'we', i really mean God through us. Being the
last day, the only reason we finished an entire house was God.

Day was amazing, we had hippie food delivered, tore up the two story house, the
only inury was sustained by me, but that's expected. The owners thought that a
group was suposed to come by yesterday, and had waited all day for one, but none
showed up. We came today, and they werent able to be there and take off work.
We told them we thought we thought we could finish the house, and didnt
dissapoint. The wife though was able to come by, and got there right as we were
leaving. We were so glad to show her what we got done.

Tonight we are going out to dinner, so i have to go. Keep us in prayer, there
is some spititual warfare going on, even though we are done working.

James

thursday

2006-03-30T19:52:00.000-08:00

Tbursday, again,
was truly amazing. The two houses our group started yesterday we finished
today. At mine and Spence's, we ripped it up, clearing out an attic in an hour,
and having a good half hour break before Dave's (slow) group got done, luckily
they went to the right house this time. At my house, we had found four baby
mice yesterday, and today, we found two of them back in the house. We put them
back outside, but it was really sad, because both of them looked injured
(busting out drywall on top of them can do that).

On the way there, we got stuck for awhile, so we jumped from car to car for
awhile. On the way back, Dave's car had no bladders, so they showed up about
fifteen to twenty minutes after i got back. That was fine for me though, got
right in the shower, and they were nice and very hot.

Tomorrow we are going to try the rare art of finishing one house in one day.
Wish us luck! Oh, and we get to go out to dinner tomorrow too, the family that
my group mucked out today is forcing us to go out to a seafood buffet, and
paying for it. They are so nice, the husband and his brother gave us three
fruit bowls in the last two days, they were soooo good, fresh fruit.

Keep praying for us! :)

Wednesday

2006-03-29T19:13:00.000-08:00

Update from the Gulf Coast

We Split up into two groups, Dave's, and Spencer's (mine). Dave went and began to
work on the wrong house, pretty funny there i have to say. We found mice in my
house, and i made a diving catch and caught one, then promptly relaeased it
outside.

Had Lunch at the hippie place (dont know why i capitalized 'lunch'), and we saw
Chad form the first trip.

Everyone says Hi!!

-James-

tuesday

2006-03-29T05:38:00.000-08:00

Today is tuesday, but that shouldnt be a suprise. Today was amazing, we
finished a house, well, actually, two, since it was a duplex. We got all of the
bottom cleaned out, then started chucking stuff out of the second story windows.

The top floor of the duplex didnt get a lot of water, so we only took out
drywall 4 feet up, so it was a tad easier up there. I managed to not get hurt
today, i think. We had a few minor injuries, but nothing serious still.

Around three o'clock, it was clear we were going to finish today, so a bunch of
people (myself included) climbed up to the top of the house through the hole i
told you about. The view was amazing, we could see for blocks, al of the
destruction and the tarps that were acting as roofs for houses. We also saw a
lot of other holes on houses, so other evidentlay crawled out that way too. But
the coolest thing about going up there was what i saw in the attic. I have
attached the picture, hopefully you can read it. But me explaining it wont do
it justice. There was a picture holding a saying about courage that was
extremely powerful, and right under it was the Bible. It was so cool to see, i
hope you enjoy the picture.

That was our day more or less. I found a really cool sword, but someone threw
it away. My mouse friend ferdinand came out for a bit, some girls screamed, you
know how that goes. Oh, National Geographic is coming thursady morning to take
pictures, its gonna be awesome, alla re looking forward to it.

monday

2006-03-28T08:43:00.000-08:00

Today was monday, and we did a bunch. We split up into two groups last night,
then we got a duplex, and all ended up going to the same place. We packed up a
bunch last night, then got everything else this morning. All but three
wheelbarrows were broken, so we grabbed those and ski-daddled. They fixed the
rest today, so we will get more than three. Needless to say, that was a
substantial limitlung factor.

We got to our duplex late (we left late, then had to go to Walmart for boots,
mattresses, and Brian Regan. I stayed in the car and slept, nap count=3), but
got straight to work. It being spring, everything was a lot drier, and ths
easier to shovel out. One group took one side of the duplex, and the other took
thier side. There was two floors, but the second floor got maybe four inches of
water. Someone had already busted through both at the top, so we could get
through as we desired. Actually, on one side, there was a hole in the roof, and
some food their. One of the families may have tried to wait out the storm, we
arent too sure. But we made a lot of progress, i think we may even be able to
finish tomorrow, especially with the amount of workers we have, and the ease of
the mud.

Lindsay, Pete, and Allie also got in today, and i have seen them all, and they
are doing good. Pray for safety and health, some of our team isnt feeling too
well, and i am extremely accidnet prone. And by that, i mane last night i
dropped a pry bar on my toe, this morning i pulled out a piece of wood too fast
(skinning my arm), getting out of the van i fell (i was trying to climb out of
the back), and i cut my hand really badly draining toilets. It is still
bleeding, even though it is three hours later. Regardless, Dave cant make me
stay here, ill be the first in tomorrow.

Well, i think that is all for the most part. It has been a fun first day(
regardless of my constant accidents), and i am looking forward deeply to
tomorrow. Ohh, we hit up the "Made With Love" cafe again, food is
still amazing. Devo should be starting soon, then we have the night and sleep.
Until tomorrow, hope all is well up there.

Take Luck,
James and the BHC Crew

Gulf Coast Trip: March 27

2006-03-27T07:16:00.000-08:00

These updates this week are from James Lansing (a student at U of D and Blue Hens for Christ).

We all got in good and safe. Today, sunday, was good. After the morning worship service, Most people went into New Orleans to go sightseeing, but a few group members (James, Grant, Naomi, John and some others) went to work. We went to the warehouse, moved some things around, then delivered food boxes to FEMA trailers in Chalmette. It was really cool, getting to talk with people who were trying to rebuild. Now we have Devo, and a few have already requested earplugs (Dave is speaking, haha).

In the absence of Ryan, i have still built a fort. It is made out of chairs,
which i am sleeping on top of, and named the "Sky Fortress".

More tomorrow....

Jen, Youth Advance, Work Day and Car Wash

2006-03-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

A couple of things:

- Jenn from Lipscomb University will be with us tonight (Wed.) She will be talking about Lipscomb and then be hanging out and having some pizza (Jenn's treat)

- Youth Advance is this weekend. We'll be leaving at 9:00am. We'll be back Sunday afternoon

- Work day at Camp Manatawny on April 1st. Sign up at the youth board.

- There will be a Car Wash for Missions on April 8th from 9-12. Be there if you would like to get some money towards your trip to the Gulf Coast!

Teen/Campus Connection II

2006-03-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

Teen/Campus Connection II is this FRIDAY night at 7:00pm at the campus house. Come and enjoy a time of food, fun and connecting with the Blue Hens for Christ ministry. Sign-up on the youth ministry board. Questions: talk to MW (matt wilson) or DB (dave blackwell).

Pictures of Bowling/Movie Night and Fast 4 Relief

2006-02-26T12:32:00.000-08:00

Click on this link for the Pictures from Bowling/Movie Night and the Fast 4 Relief weekend!!

Also click on this link for more JUST ADDED pictures of the Gulf Coast Trip

Fast 4 Relief THIS WEEKEND!!!!!!!

2006-02-23T08:10:00.000-08:00

The moment we have been waiting for is FINALLY here!!!

This weekend is the Fast 4 Relief.

Remember to begin your fast after lunch on Friday.

The WITHOUT EXCUSE concert begins at 7pm (Bring a friend....$2 admissions-goes toward the Gulf Coast Relief)

Here is the schedule for the weekend:

Friday February 24

After Lunch: Begin the Fast

7:00 – 8:00pm Without Excuse Concert
8:30 – 9:00pm Clean up
9:00-10:30pm Free Time
10:30-11:00pm Group Game
11:00-11:15pm Juice Break
11:15-12:00 Devotional
12:00 am Free Time, Games, Movies, Sleep

Saturday February 25

9:00 Wake Up and Clean up some!
9:30 Devotional
10:00 Move to the Campus House (17 Park Place)
10:30 Begin Service Projects
12:30 Juice Break/Group Game
2:30 Finish up Projects
3:00 Game/Free Time
3:30 Head Back to Newark building
4:00 Clean up
4:30 “Break the Fast” Communion
5:00 Dinner

Make sure you bring juice, water, stuff for sleeping, work clothes, games.

Email or IM me if you have any questions or want to bring another friend with you.

This is going to be an AWESOME WEEKEND!!!! I'm really pumped!

See you Friday night!!!

Winterfest and Kiss the Pig

2006-02-15T15:30:00.000-08:00

People Going to Winterfest
Be at the building to leave for Pitman at 10:30pm.

Kiss the Pig Contest is going on till Feb. 26th. Keep getting people to give money towards the relief effort.

Sign up for the Fast 4 Relief on Feb. 24-25

(click on the image to see the flyer for the Without Excuse Concert)

February 10-12

2006-02-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

Here are things coming up this weekend:

* Friday 2/10 Movie Night at the Campus House (17 East Park in Newark: near the insection with S. College). 7pm Bring some snacks to share!

* Saturday 2/11 Ladies Day at the building. Registration starts at 11:30am.

* Saturday 2/11 @ 6pm Gulf Coast Trip Reunion. At the building. Bring pictures, games and come enjoy a time of food and see "the gang" from the mission trip!!

* Sunday 2/12 is Gulf Coast Sunday. If you went on the trip, where your t-shirt.

Feb. Calendar

2006-01-30T16:24:00.000-08:00

Here is the calendar for February.

New Gulf Coast Pictures and Wed. Study

2006-01-27T06:13:00.000-08:00

NEW Gulf Coast Mission Pictures are posted. CHECK THEM OUT HERE!

**FOR WEDNESDAY NIGHTS COMPARATIVE RELIGION CLASS**
Look up and look at some information on Catholicism.

Update from Gulf Coast

2006-01-25T13:12:00.000-08:00

I received this email today and thought everyone would be interested in this!

Wanted to let you know, we visited your friend Charles Whitley at the
Chalmette Church of Christ last week. He said your team cleared out the
building. We nailed down the plywood siding on their building, wrapped it
in tar paper (the auditorium part they are keeping) and framed out some of
the classroom area inside. Thought your team would like to see the
continuation of their efforts cleaning out their building. I took a few
pictures starting at img_3622 at this link:
http://www.therenos.com/katrinapictures/Team%207/JohnTeam7/index.htmland Bill took some as well at this link:
http://www.therenos.com/katrinapictures/Team%207/Bill/index.htmlstarting with picture dscn0338

I put most of our blog entries from servantsunite.blogspot.com on the
whereisawjesus blog as well last week, but you can find links to more
pictures of our trip on the servantsunite blog if you are interested.

We can see some progress from the work we have God. To God be the glory!

Love Wins! -Matt-

A couple things

2006-01-20T09:14:00.000-08:00

1) Reminder: For Wednesday night (Comparative Religion class) Bring information on Contemporary Judaism (example: Kabbalah).

2) Ski Trip: Jan. 27-28

3) Monday Night Basketball
Where the REAL Superstars Play (See Picture)
Monday 7:00-8:30/9:00pm through March 27

4) Feb. calenders will be out this week. Check the youth board to pick up your very own.

5) Next week we will begin our "Fast 4 Relief" fundraising. Next Sunday we will kick off our "Kiss the Pig" Contest!!!!

Final Day Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-12T18:30:00.000-08:00

So today, thursday, was our last day of work, and it was a good way to end.
although we got off to a late start, we all busted it out and finished the
house. At the end of the day, the family took contact info from all of us in
order to stay in touch. Also, a few days ago, we found some money in the junk
that we were taking out. The wife tried desparatly to give it to us, but we
wouldnt take it. Then, today, as we were leaving, she handed us a check so we
could each buy a yellow volunteer t-shirt. We treid to refuse, but we just were
not able to. The wife also brought us loads of snackas for breaks. It was sad
to say goodby, both wife and husband were in tears, but driving home, i felt
such peace that this trip had accomplished so much. I can not wait to return,
whether for spring break, and/or summer.

Peace out y'all
James

Thanks to James for keeping us posted this past week!

Monday Jan. 9 Gulf Coast Mission Trip

2006-01-09T17:41:00.000-08:00

We began a new house today. We were lucky, this one doesnt look too bad, the
front was dried out mud, nice and easy to scoop, but we really didnt seem to get
too far. The heat was really bad, we had to take lots of breaks, and we got
there late after having to pick up tools. We met with the wife of the house,
and when she saw us, she got very emotional. We were able to pray with her a
few times, and let her salvage much of her house. Looks like we are going to
need two more days, lots of stuff top get out.

Jan 7 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-08T18:49:00.000-08:00

On Friday we finished up the house we were working on the past few days. We found a total of three snakes (one was in a tube with much all in it) We had to bust out
walls, clean out the attic (there was just as much stuff as was on the first
floor). Then, when we finished, we gave the family some of our contact info, hugged, and said goodbye. Dave did an interview to bring back and show, it should be good. Traffic made it a three hour trip home!!! Saturday we went to target. Ryan and Diane, and James got matching "Pedro offers you his protection" shirts to wear for gulf coast. We are taking a day off for morning worship and to pick up some people.

Continue to keep us in your prayers!

Jan. 5 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-06T07:22:00.000-08:00

Toady, We spent the entire day mucking out a new house. We got about half done, and will hopefully finish tomorrow. The house we were out was less than half a mile from where the levy broke, so things were really bad, probably the worse we have have done yet. The owners were there when we were working on it, and we were able to salvage some of the things that got all mucky. One thing we got was a dish bowl that belonged to the (i believe late) mother of the residents. When we found it and brought it out, the lady talked to dave about, and was almost in tears. It was heartbreaking having to go through all their things, but that was a ray of sunshine in the muck.

This is a hurting area...please remember these people in your prayers.

Jan. 4 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today we worked at the Joy Fellowship church. We began by organizing rooms for some incoming volunteers. From 12-3, we helped run a drive of food, clothing, health supplies, and hot meals. Each person worked different stations throughout the drvie and some people helped with parking (which James now has a nice tan in January). For the people that were on the trip last week: some sad news; Karunga (one of our mascots pictured here with Mr. Potato Head)'s head fell off today. Ryan is doing okay :) Everyone is in great spirits. Continue keeping us in your prayers.

Jan 3 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-03T18:08:00.000-08:00

The 1st group of team members got back to Delaware safely.

Updates from the 2nd week will be on daily and written by Ryan and James (since I won't be there).

Pictures from week 1 are up to be looked at. More will be added as more pictures come in. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PICTURES!

Updates from the group still in Lousianna:

Jan 2

Today we worked with a group from Chattanooga, Tennessee. In the morning, we loaded toys and bookbags for a local elemtary school, and handed them out (James Polis Elemtary school, we think). The kids were really cute, It was great to see their faces when we gave them the presents. Then, in the afternoon, we went to a house and demucked it. Demucking the house was a surprise so we didn't bring our boots. Let's just say our boots got pretty messy. On the way home, the girls sang "Away in the Manger".

Jan 3

We finished mucking out the house we started on yesterday with the group from TN. There was a lot of digging out of house applicanes and James even got to take a
sledgehammer to a toilet to knock it off its hinges. For the past couple of days Michelle Drew and her daughter came and worked with the group (Michelle was a member at Newark who moved to New Orleans to work on her graduate degrees 6 days before the hurricane. She has continued to live in N.O. and help with the recovery).

Jan 2 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-02T22:14:00.000-08:00

Well for some of us this was our last day in New Orleans. We started the morning early gutting houses, finishing at the church and delivering some gifts to a local school. The people that were staying continued to work while the other group made there way back to Birmingham. The group in Alabama are staying at Angie's sisters home for the night and then to the airport in the morning. There were great memories and lives were changed for a lifetime.

There will be updates for the second week so continue to check back as updates are made. There will be some pictures that will start to be put up tomorrow and into Thurs.

More tomorrow...

January 1 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-01T18:10:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

Last evening we had two new years celebrations: one for east coast new year's and then central new years. For our east coast we had a basketball dropping from the ceiling at the stroke of midnight. Both new years we had a sparkling apple juice toast. Mixed in with that were some games of "Spoons". It was a enjoyable evening.

We woke up and a few people headed over to the church we have been working on and continued working. The others stayed at Tammny Oaks and helped clean the building for worship. We then worshipped with the Tammny Oaks family and then headed to the French Quarter in New Orleans for lunch. It was a nice afternoon.

We then came back to the building and had a "devotional/reflection time". It was a wonderful time of spirited worship and reflection. Now we're having Pappa Johns for dinner....

This has been a great week of service and building community. The trip isn't over yet and is just about to begin for some who will be joining us on Tuesday.

We covet your prayers....

More tomorrow.

January 1 Gulf Coast Trip

2006-01-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

Dec 31 Gulf Coast Trip

2005-12-31T20:00:00.000-08:00

Wow. That's all I have to say about today's experience. Today was the first day everyone went to the "disater area" (and my first experience). As we were traveling there was a place where 8 roads were together and our vans were the only vans on the roads. A very strange feeling for a major interstate highway. Then we hit the area. Fishing boats, turned over coach buses, smashed homes all along the side of the road. The devestation was incredible. The smell was hirendous. There were trash piles about 20 feet high all over the roads. All I can say is Wow.

Today we split into three groups. 2 worked on gutting homes and one big group worked on repairing a church building that was 15 feet under water and was covered with up to 8 feet of mud at one point. We were rebuilding and adding the outside walls of the church. The area was completly diserted. We did not see one person around the church during the day.

A very cool experience was lunch today. We ate at a diaster relief center run by some authentic "hippies". It was a neat experience. There were people that were there who had just got to their homes for the first time in 4 months. It was neat to see people all working together to help out. Both the relief workers and the people there for food, clothes, etc were very appreciative of the work we were doing. Some of the relief workers from the lunch place wanted to come and work at the church so hopefully we'll see them soon here.

Tonight we celebrated New Years alittle early by going out to eat at some restruants. It was a good time. We get to sleep in tomorrow (8am) because of morning worship and then we will go to New Orleans to the French Quarter for lunch and looking around the city.

Have a happy and safe New Years!!!