Lots to cover this week, so let’s jump in!
RightNow Media is available to you!
Just a reminder that First has a subscription that allows any of our members (as well as any friends or family you’d like to add) to access RightNow Media for free. This is a “Christian Netflix” so-to-speak. It has shows for kids, movies, and many Bible study resources. If you’d like to sign up, just email Chris VanDenOever or office@frcportage.org.
Family Fun Night was FUN!
Wow, what a night we had this past Monday at our Family Fun Night. An estimated 120 people hung out in the delightful evening shade and enjoyed tacos, s’mores, and watching Hayden get “pancaked” with syrup and flour (and then pop and shaving cream). There was some tug-of-war, sack races, water, and an intense game of Olympic Bingo. Overall it was just a really fun night and BIG thank you’s to Sarah and Kelli for organizing, Church Life for the delicious food, and everyone else who helped setup, tear down, or provide supplies.
Consistory Response to Farmer’s Market Proposal
Following a month of prayerful consideration, Consistory decided to respond to the City’s most recent request to acquire some portion of the church’s property with the following:
At this time, First Reformed is anticipating needing its current property to accomplish its mission and therefore is not interested in releasing any portion of our property. However, we are open to review any formal proposals that include numbers and formal timelines given in the future. Evaluation will be based on how any proposal helps First Reformed advance in its mission to be a proclaimer of the Gospel in the City of Portage. Additionally, the church is eager to support the people and programs of the City of Portage and is open to cooperation to that end using our physical resources where possible (such as providing parking for a Saturday or Sunday evening Farmer’s Market).
Thank you for praying and helping our leaders reach this unanimous conclusion.
Marti Phelps’ Resignation
After 24 years of service, Marti Phelps has decided to step down from the Finance Team. Marti has been the church secretary, a volunteer in multiple capacities and most recently the Accounting Specialist on the Finance Team handling payroll, receipting, coordinating with our accounting firm and randomly helping people find things throughout the church. She has been conscientious and dependable and has given much of herself to the church for decades. Marti will continue through January of 2025 in order to finish up the fiscal year and help with transition. Consistory is considering the way the forward and how best to fill the several voids Marti is leaving. Thank you for your service, Marti! You are loved and appreciated!
Quick Highlights
- Thank you to Julie and Jacob Pasma for volunteering to help run Projector and Sound!
- Make sure your profile is visible in the Church Center directory. If you’re unsure, please contact Kyle.
- Jacinda Fletcher (daughter of Rob and Tara Fletcher) is getting baptized Friday at Miracle Camp by Kyle!
- Kids and Student Ministries volunteers will be getting formal applications soon in accordance with our updated Child Protection policy. Some may also get a Background Check form if needed.
- September 8 is Fall Kick-off: a Sunday dedicated to sharing the vision of First, Fall/Winter offerings, and picnic following the service. Rumor has it a dunk dank is involved.
- Donate a gift card (or money towards) for our college student care packages. See Pam Everts for info.
- Kyle is in process for ordination with the Michigan Catalyst Network Pathways program and is close to recommendation to the Alliance Ordination Team.
Prayer
- Allysa Pfeifer (Kirby) would appreciate prayers for some health issues. Some testing she had done recently indicates some endocrine problems.
- Laura VanSweden’s Melanoma removal surgery on 8/23, and the nodule found on her lung.
- A member of the mission group Laura VanSweden served with recently, Mike Johnson, had a heart attack, but has been stabilized. Pray for healing and recovery.
- For teachers and coaches who have returned to school and are preparing for school start.
