Here we are-- the last WOW-Zine of the year. I hope you've all experienced a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to a New Year that is specifically designed by God for YOU! The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Remember that we'll be having our Undecorating Party this Friday at the church at 6 PM. Bring $5 for pizza and sodas and we'll eat as we take all the beautiful decorations down and store them for another year. After all, nothing says Christmas is over like pizza-scented ornaments and wreaths! Starting around 7, or as soon as Christmas is boxed up, we'll have a game night. I think you all know the routine for that--bring a game (that really helps!) and a snack to share. In order for me to know how many pizzas to buy, please drop me a line or text to let me know you're coming for that part of the evening. (My contact info is always listed at the end of the WOW-Zine.)
Our Bible studies DO NOT meet this week, but will resume next week. I'm looking forward to seeing you all then. Just as a heads-up, Nathalie, you're on for treats that Wednesday night, and Cindy, you're signed up for Thursday morning.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Tuesday, December 16, 2014 WOW-Zine
Thanks to all of you who attended our Christmas party Saturday night! Wasn't it fun? It was great to eat delicious food in such a beautiful setting. Thanks for sharing your "decked halls" with us, Amy! And then all the gift stealing and finagling--wow, what can I say? I'm already looking forward to next year's party!
This is our final week of Bible studies until the first week of January. Helen is providing something to snack on at Common Grounds (tomorrow night at 6:30). The next morning at 9:30 Carol R. is bringing snacks for The Perk. I hope you're able to join us at one of the studies. (They both meet at the church.)
Don't forget about our De-Deck the Sanctuary party on Friday, January 2nd at 6 PM. Bring $5 for pizza and soda and help us put the decorations away for another year. As soon as that is done, we'll have a game night at the church, beginning around 7. Bring a snack to share, along with a game. It's a fun way to start out the New Year together.
Here's a blog post sent to me by a loyal reader. I think most of us can identify!
How to Create Margin in Your Life…During Christmas Season?
Until next time,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcracft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
This is our final week of Bible studies until the first week of January. Helen is providing something to snack on at Common Grounds (tomorrow night at 6:30). The next morning at 9:30 Carol R. is bringing snacks for The Perk. I hope you're able to join us at one of the studies. (They both meet at the church.)
Don't forget about our De-Deck the Sanctuary party on Friday, January 2nd at 6 PM. Bring $5 for pizza and soda and help us put the decorations away for another year. As soon as that is done, we'll have a game night at the church, beginning around 7. Bring a snack to share, along with a game. It's a fun way to start out the New Year together.
Here's a blog post sent to me by a loyal reader. I think most of us can identify!
How to Create Margin in Your Life…During Christmas Season?
This is such a busy time of year. The chaos has hit and I’m already feeling stressed out and almost wishing Christmas would hurry up and get over. I don’t want to be the kind of person…the one that wishes the time away and regrets it later.
The problem and solution came to me as I pulled into my garage the other night. I could barely fit my car into the sliver of a parking space that was greatly reduced because my husband or maybe my 15 year old son had taken up far too much room with the other car in our garage. I literally only had a 1/2 inch clearance on the driver side with my mirrors folded in and had to take extra caution and time to make sure I did not side swipe my husband’s car. When I walked in the door all visions of “happy” family time went out the window because I had to practically crawl out the car window to get into the house. Why was I so irritated, mad and grumpy??? I had been left with no wiggle room and it left me feeling stressed out which lead to me being highly irritated, mad and really grumpy. All because I had no margin.
What is “margin?” “Margin is the space between our load and our limits. It is the amount allowed beyond that which is needed. It is something held in reserve for contingencies or unanticipated situations. Margin is the gap between rest and exhaustion, the space between breathing freely and suffocating.” Richard Swenson, author of Margin.
This time of year, our “margin” is greatly reduced as we strive for perfection when buying gifts, dressing for holiday parties, decorating Christmas trees, hanging holiday lights, baking cookies….the list is endless! We feel the squeeze from our circumstances, commitments, and pressure from others. We most certainly get tired, exhausted, maxed out and have little to no reserve for unanticipated opportunities that come our way.
So how do we create “margin” in our lives during this time of year? I think it starts by having the right heart attitude so we are ready to say “yes” to the significant things and “no” to the insignificant things.
Jesus offers us insight on this topic in Matthew 6:19-21. This passage of scripture is part of what is known as the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus is encouraging and admonishing believers on how to live. This truth has helped me create margin by knowing when to say “yes” and when to say “no.”
“Do not store up for ourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
To “store up treasures in heaven” basically mean our heart attitude it to be rich toward God. This passage is reminding us to say “yes” to the significant things which have eternal value and no to the insignificant which are temporary.
Let’s actively protect our “margin” so we have time say “yes” to the significant and have the courage to say “no” to the insignificant. “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
I’d love to hear your ideas on how to create “margin” this Christmas season! What are some significant and insignificant things that you have struggled with?
The post How to Create Margin in Your Life…During Christmas Season? appeared first onFor the Joy of It.
Until next time,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcracft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Tuesday, December 9, 2014 WOW-ZineIt'
It's time to get your PARTY on!! This Saturday, 6 PM at Amy Rusaw's, is our annual WOW Christmas party. This year's theme is The Polar Express, With a Cup of Christmas Cheer. You've read about it in the WOW-Zine, you've heard it during announcements, and you've seen it in the Wapato Weekly, so you probably know all the details. But just in case ...
~Wear pajamas (slippers too, as it's a shoe-free house. And yes, please wear undergarments beneath your jammies so that we can all have an "uplifting" experience!)
~Bring a breakfast-type item for our potluck brinner (breakfast/dinner)
~Bring a Christmas mug filled with special little items of your choice. Please be sure the mug is gift wrapped.
If you'd like to carpool from Gaston, meet behind the church at 5:30. We'll leave from there at 5:40.
If you love to sample the Christmas baking of others, you can show up at 5 PM for a cookie exchange. Please bring 2-dozen cookies and an extra tray.
You'll receive a Polar Express ticket when you arrive, and it's your job to be sure you get four punches on your ticket during the evening so that your name can be entered in a drawing for a Starbucks gift certificate. You'll receive a punch for wearing pjs, bringing food, bringing a wrapped gift, and getting something from the hot chocolate bar. To get you in the mood for that, take a look at this clip from The Polar Express! (Hopefully you won't have to watch a terrible ad first!)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaD8O2RiVIc
Both Bible studies meet this week and next, and then we'll be off for a few weeks of Christmas break. Melissa signed up for treats for Common Grounds (Wednesday, 6:30 PM) and Kristen S. will bring goodies for The Perk (Thursday, 9:30 AM). I hope a lot of you can join us for whichever study works out best for your schedule. Both studies meet at the church.
Until next time,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail. com 971-285-6699
~Wear pajamas (slippers too, as it's a shoe-free house. And yes, please wear undergarments beneath your jammies so that we can all have an "uplifting" experience!)
~Bring a breakfast-type item for our potluck brinner (breakfast/dinner)
~Bring a Christmas mug filled with special little items of your choice. Please be sure the mug is gift wrapped.
If you'd like to carpool from Gaston, meet behind the church at 5:30. We'll leave from there at 5:40.
If you love to sample the Christmas baking of others, you can show up at 5 PM for a cookie exchange. Please bring 2-dozen cookies and an extra tray.
You'll receive a Polar Express ticket when you arrive, and it's your job to be sure you get four punches on your ticket during the evening so that your name can be entered in a drawing for a Starbucks gift certificate. You'll receive a punch for wearing pjs, bringing food, bringing a wrapped gift, and getting something from the hot chocolate bar. To get you in the mood for that, take a look at this clip from The Polar Express! (Hopefully you won't have to watch a terrible ad first!)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaD8O2RiVIc
Both Bible studies meet this week and next, and then we'll be off for a few weeks of Christmas break. Melissa signed up for treats for Common Grounds (Wednesday, 6:30 PM) and Kristen S. will bring goodies for The Perk (Thursday, 9:30 AM). I hope a lot of you can join us for whichever study works out best for your schedule. Both studies meet at the church.
Until next time,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail. com 971-285-6699
Monday, December 1, 2014
Monday, December 1, 2014 WOW-Zine
Happy December to all of you! Hard to believe we're entering the last month of the year. You think time passes quickly now--just wait until you're my age!!
Our Thanksgiving break is over and both Bible studies will resume this week. We probably have about six more lessons in this series of God Is Just Not Fair, so it's not too late to join us. Alyssa will be providing snacks for Common Grounds on Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and Thursday at 9:30 AM Stephanie will bring some goodies to go with our coffee and tea. Both studies will meet the first three weeks of December, with the last times being on the 17th and 18th, respectively.
Hopefully many of you are planning on attending the WOW Christmas party on Saturday, December 13th at 6 PM. We'll be meeting at Amy Rusaw's for a really fun evening. Since our theme is The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer, please wear winter pajamas and bring a breakfast food for our potluck "brinner." For our gift exchange (i.e. gift stealing) bring a wrapped Chrismas Mug filled with whatever little goodies you can fit inside. Just use your imagination and very little money! If you'd like to carpool, meet behind the church at 5:30 that evening, and we'll leave by 5:40.
If you'd like to participate in a cookie exchange that evening, show up at Amy's an hour ahead of the party (5 PM) and bring 2-dozen cookies and an extra tray on which to take them home. Your cookies will be put aside during the party so no one will assume they're dessert!
A huge thanks to all the ladies who showed up Saturday morning to help decorate the sanctuary! It looks beautiful and festive for the Christmas season. (And Janet's cinnamon rolls made the job easy to do!) I know it seems a long way off, but we'll have our annual Undecorate Party on Friday, January 2nd. We start the evening off with pizza and tucking the decorations away for another year, followed by a game night.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Our Thanksgiving break is over and both Bible studies will resume this week. We probably have about six more lessons in this series of God Is Just Not Fair, so it's not too late to join us. Alyssa will be providing snacks for Common Grounds on Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and Thursday at 9:30 AM Stephanie will bring some goodies to go with our coffee and tea. Both studies will meet the first three weeks of December, with the last times being on the 17th and 18th, respectively.
Hopefully many of you are planning on attending the WOW Christmas party on Saturday, December 13th at 6 PM. We'll be meeting at Amy Rusaw's for a really fun evening. Since our theme is The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer, please wear winter pajamas and bring a breakfast food for our potluck "brinner." For our gift exchange (i.e. gift stealing) bring a wrapped Chrismas Mug filled with whatever little goodies you can fit inside. Just use your imagination and very little money! If you'd like to carpool, meet behind the church at 5:30 that evening, and we'll leave by 5:40.
If you'd like to participate in a cookie exchange that evening, show up at Amy's an hour ahead of the party (5 PM) and bring 2-dozen cookies and an extra tray on which to take them home. Your cookies will be put aside during the party so no one will assume they're dessert!
A huge thanks to all the ladies who showed up Saturday morning to help decorate the sanctuary! It looks beautiful and festive for the Christmas season. (And Janet's cinnamon rolls made the job easy to do!) I know it seems a long way off, but we'll have our annual Undecorate Party on Friday, January 2nd. We start the evening off with pizza and tucking the decorations away for another year, followed by a game night.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Tuesday, November 18, 2014 WOW-Zine
I'm just sneaking in under the wire to get this WOW-Zine out to you on Tuesday! It's just been a really long, full day--probably like yours! So ... several things to remind you of.
There doesn't seem to be any threat of freezing rain this week, so both Bible studies are on as usual. (Remember, neither of the studies will meet next week, due to Thanksgiving.) Janet is on for treats for Common Grounds at 6:30 PM Wednesday, and at The Perk on Thursday morning (9:30 AM) Carol R. will be sharing something yummy. Danielle won't be available for childcare this week, so we may need a mom to work together with Nola.
What: The WOW Annual Christmas Party
Theme: The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer
When: Saturday, December 13th, 6 PM
Where: Amy Rusaw's house
Food: Brinner items (we're having breakfast for dinner)
Suggested dress: Christmas pajamas (or regular jammies)
Gift exchange: Christmas mug stuffed with your creativity
Details: This is going to be a super fun night, ladies! Most of you have seen the movie The Polar Express and know that these little kids take a train ride to the North Pole in their jammies during the night. So we're building the evening around that concept. Wear your pj's (Christmas-themed, if you have some), bring a wrapped Christmas mug filled with goodies that will fit inside (for example, cookies, candy, nuts, hot cocoa packets, etc.) We'll have our usual "Christian women stealing gifts from each other" exchange at the end of the evening! Our potluck dinner will be breakfast items. Your women's ministry team has some fun things planned throughout the evening, so plan now to attend, and feel free to bring a friend with you.
Our Christmas Cookie Exchange will be held the same day at the same place, an hour before the party. If you'd like to participate in the exchange, show up at Amy's at 5 PM with two-dozen cookies and an extra plate. Don't worry, you'll be able to hide your cookies from the rest of us so that you actually get to take them home!
Speaking of the holiday events, it will soon be time to Deck the Sanctuary for Christmas. If you love to decorate and beautify, join us the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 29th at 9:30 AM at the church. Janet will help us get there by providing the scent of her famous cinnamon rolls to lead us to the church kitchen! Pick up your favorite coffee at Scoggins on your way and come put your talents to work. Amy and Debbie always help guide us so things actually coordinate, and we're done within two hours.
I'm going to leave you with a devotional I came across this week.
There doesn't seem to be any threat of freezing rain this week, so both Bible studies are on as usual. (Remember, neither of the studies will meet next week, due to Thanksgiving.) Janet is on for treats for Common Grounds at 6:30 PM Wednesday, and at The Perk on Thursday morning (9:30 AM) Carol R. will be sharing something yummy. Danielle won't be available for childcare this week, so we may need a mom to work together with Nola.
What: The WOW Annual Christmas Party
Theme: The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer
When: Saturday, December 13th, 6 PM
Where: Amy Rusaw's house
Food: Brinner items (we're having breakfast for dinner)
Suggested dress: Christmas pajamas (or regular jammies)
Gift exchange: Christmas mug stuffed with your creativity
Details: This is going to be a super fun night, ladies! Most of you have seen the movie The Polar Express and know that these little kids take a train ride to the North Pole in their jammies during the night. So we're building the evening around that concept. Wear your pj's (Christmas-themed, if you have some), bring a wrapped Christmas mug filled with goodies that will fit inside (for example, cookies, candy, nuts, hot cocoa packets, etc.) We'll have our usual "Christian women stealing gifts from each other" exchange at the end of the evening! Our potluck dinner will be breakfast items. Your women's ministry team has some fun things planned throughout the evening, so plan now to attend, and feel free to bring a friend with you.
Our Christmas Cookie Exchange will be held the same day at the same place, an hour before the party. If you'd like to participate in the exchange, show up at Amy's at 5 PM with two-dozen cookies and an extra plate. Don't worry, you'll be able to hide your cookies from the rest of us so that you actually get to take them home!
Speaking of the holiday events, it will soon be time to Deck the Sanctuary for Christmas. If you love to decorate and beautify, join us the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 29th at 9:30 AM at the church. Janet will help us get there by providing the scent of her famous cinnamon rolls to lead us to the church kitchen! Pick up your favorite coffee at Scoggins on your way and come put your talents to work. Amy and Debbie always help guide us so things actually coordinate, and we're done within two hours.
I'm going to leave you with a devotional I came across this week.
Move the Stone
“Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them. But Martha, the dead man’s sister, said, “Lord, by now the smell will be terrible because he has been dead for four days.” John 11:39 (NLT)
Martha was a practical woman. When Jesus came to her house to teach, she worked herself to the bone cooking and cleaning so Jesus and His followers could be taken care of. When she complained, Jesus helped her set her priorities straight.
While it was important for her to cook and clean, it was more important for her to be in His presence, to listen to and learn from Him.
Now Jesus has come again to raise her brother from the dead. Though, if you asked Martha, if Jesus had come when they first asked Him to her brother wouldn’t be dead.
And now He wants to open up the tomb.
Martha doesn’t understand any of it.
What I find interesting is that when Jesus asks for the tomb to be opened Martha’s first concern is for the smell. She didn’t express her amazement that Jesus was going to raise her brother from the dead after four days, but that a body dead for four days would stink.
Aren’t we often like that?
God tells us to do something, to take a step of faith, to do our part so He can work. And instead of saying, “Wow. Let’s hurry and do it so we can see what God will do,” we tend to think of the practical before the spiritual. We wonder what people will think, how it could logically happen, how it will smell.
Like Martha, our priorities are wrong. Instead of focusing on what God’s going to do, we are worried about how it’s going to affect us.
Why do you think Jesus asked them to move the stone? If He was about to resurrect a dead body, moving a stone from in front of the tomb was a small thing. But He wanted their participation. He wanted them to put their faith in action. If they believed He was really going to raise a body that had been dead four days, then moving the stone from the tomb was the first step to show their faith.
What stone do you need to move so God can work?
What’s something you know God’s been asking you to step out in faith and do?
What action would you take if you really believed God is Who He says He is?
Stop worrying about the practical and get moving.
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Tuesday, November 11, 2014 WOW-Zine
I think I'd better slow down a bit. As I tried to type the title WOW-Zine, my fingers actually did it as WOE-Zone! That is not my intention--this is a woe-free zone around here! The whole purpose of this weekly communication with you is to let you know of the good stuff going on in Women's Ministry so you can be a part of it.
What: The WOW Annual Christmas Party
Theme: The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer
When: Saturday, December 13th, 6 PM
Where: Amy Rusaw's house
Food: Brinner items (we're having breakfast for dinner)
Suggested dress: Christmas pajamas
Gift exchange: Christmas mug stuffed with your creativity
Details: This is going to be a super fun night, ladies! Most of you have seen the movie The Polar Express and know that these little kids take a train ride to the North Pole in their jammies during the night. So we're building the evening around that concept. Wear your pj's (Christmas-themed, if you have some), bring a wrapped Christmas mug filled with goodies that will fit inside (for example, cookies, candy, nuts, hot cocoa packets, bacon, etc.) We'll have our usual "Christian women stealing gifts from each other" exchange at the end of the evening! Our potluck dinner will be breakfast items. Your women's ministry team has some fun things planned throughout the evening, so plan now to attend, and feel free to bring a friend with you.
Our Christmas Cookie Exchange will be held the same day at the same place, an hour before the party. If you'd like to participate in the exchange, show up at Amy's at 5 PM with two-dozen cookies and an extra plate. Don't worry, you'll be able to hide your cookies from the rest of us so that you actually get to take them home!
Speaking of the holiday events, it will soon be time to Deck the Sanctuary for Christmas. If you love to decorate and beautify, join us the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 29th at 9:30 AM at the church. Janet will help us get there by providing the scent of her famous cinnamon rolls to lead us to the church kitchen! Pick up your favorite coffee at Scoggins on your way and come put your talents to work. Amy and Debbie always help guide us so things actually coordinate, and we're done within two hours.
Until then, we have our weekly Bible study opportunities this week and next. (We don't meet during Thanksgiving week.) I'll bring a little snack for Common Grounds on Wednesday night (6:30), and Carol R. is bringing goodies for The Perk on Thursday at 9:30 AM. Please come join us for a great time of study, discussion, and support as we continue through our study of God is Just Not Fair.
Oh, and on a personal note, would you please pray for me this weekend as I speak at a retreat for Lynchwood Church of God?
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
What: The WOW Annual Christmas Party
Theme: The Polar Express with a Cup of Christmas Cheer
When: Saturday, December 13th, 6 PM
Where: Amy Rusaw's house
Food: Brinner items (we're having breakfast for dinner)
Suggested dress: Christmas pajamas
Gift exchange: Christmas mug stuffed with your creativity
Details: This is going to be a super fun night, ladies! Most of you have seen the movie The Polar Express and know that these little kids take a train ride to the North Pole in their jammies during the night. So we're building the evening around that concept. Wear your pj's (Christmas-themed, if you have some), bring a wrapped Christmas mug filled with goodies that will fit inside (for example, cookies, candy, nuts, hot cocoa packets, bacon, etc.) We'll have our usual "Christian women stealing gifts from each other" exchange at the end of the evening! Our potluck dinner will be breakfast items. Your women's ministry team has some fun things planned throughout the evening, so plan now to attend, and feel free to bring a friend with you.
Our Christmas Cookie Exchange will be held the same day at the same place, an hour before the party. If you'd like to participate in the exchange, show up at Amy's at 5 PM with two-dozen cookies and an extra plate. Don't worry, you'll be able to hide your cookies from the rest of us so that you actually get to take them home!
Speaking of the holiday events, it will soon be time to Deck the Sanctuary for Christmas. If you love to decorate and beautify, join us the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 29th at 9:30 AM at the church. Janet will help us get there by providing the scent of her famous cinnamon rolls to lead us to the church kitchen! Pick up your favorite coffee at Scoggins on your way and come put your talents to work. Amy and Debbie always help guide us so things actually coordinate, and we're done within two hours.
Until then, we have our weekly Bible study opportunities this week and next. (We don't meet during Thanksgiving week.) I'll bring a little snack for Common Grounds on Wednesday night (6:30), and Carol R. is bringing goodies for The Perk on Thursday at 9:30 AM. Please come join us for a great time of study, discussion, and support as we continue through our study of God is Just Not Fair.
Oh, and on a personal note, would you please pray for me this weekend as I speak at a retreat for Lynchwood Church of God?
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Tuesday, November 4, 2014 WOW-Zine
Election Day! I know we're all anxious for the political ads to stop showing up on our televisions, air waves, and mail boxes. It's such an honor to have the opportunity to vote, and I hope you've made good use of it. And it got me to thinking about how important elections are to God. There are several verses in the Bible that refer to believers as being God's elect, or elected ones. I love the word picture there--God going into a polling booth, seeing each of our names on the ballot, and putting a big fat X (well, I guess it's really poking out a chad) in front of each of our names. Though in Oregon, with vote by mail, I think a more accurate picture would be Him sitting in the comfort of heaven and using a blue or black ink pen to color in the box in front of our names. Either way, isn't it cool to think that God has chosen each one of us for eternal life with Him? He just goes down the list and says, "I choose you, and you, and you, and ..."
At both our Bible studies last week, we discussed God's sovereignty and of how He has the right to do whatever He wants to do in our lives. We can fight it, or we can submit--the choice is ours. We can question God all we want, but sometimes we end up bringing more grief on ourselves by asking the wrong questions. Instead of asking "why" questions, a better route to go is to ask "how" questions. Those present wanted me to send out those questions, so the rest of you are getting them here too! When going through life's challenges and trials, instead of getting bogged down in the whys, let's ask the hows.
Remember, the why of our suffering may never be answered, but to ask the how of suffering allows us to begin to see the redemption that can come out of it.
This Friday night is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. If you're going and have room to take one woman along with you, would you please let me know and I'll get the two of you together? You can buy tickets at http://lmgconcerts.4dtixx.com/ordertickets.asp?p=213
Amy's Christmas Card Party is coming up Saturday, November 15th, from 10-2 at her house. Please let her know by this weekend if you are planning to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough stuff on hand. For $20, paid directly to her, you'll leave with ten beautiful homemade Christmas cards for the special people in your life. Your daughters are also invited to come if they are at least fifteen years old. Bring snacks and a salad to share during lunch.
A couple other holiday events to add to your calendar?
This week at Common Grounds (6:30 PM Wednesday) Christine is bringing something yummy for us. For The Perk (9:30 AM Thursday) Amy R. is providing something delicious. I hope you're able to join us for either of these. It doesn't matter whether you've attended before or not--we'd love to see you!
At both our Bible studies last week, we discussed God's sovereignty and of how He has the right to do whatever He wants to do in our lives. We can fight it, or we can submit--the choice is ours. We can question God all we want, but sometimes we end up bringing more grief on ourselves by asking the wrong questions. Instead of asking "why" questions, a better route to go is to ask "how" questions. Those present wanted me to send out those questions, so the rest of you are getting them here too! When going through life's challenges and trials, instead of getting bogged down in the whys, let's ask the hows.
- How will God use this preemptively in my life?
- How will He use this loss for my gain?
- How can I cooperate with my loving God's master plan through this current suffering?
- How can this possibly help me grow or change?
Remember, the why of our suffering may never be answered, but to ask the how of suffering allows us to begin to see the redemption that can come out of it.
This Friday night is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. If you're going and have room to take one woman along with you, would you please let me know and I'll get the two of you together? You can buy tickets at http://lmgconcerts.4dtixx.com/ordertickets.asp?p=213
Amy's Christmas Card Party is coming up Saturday, November 15th, from 10-2 at her house. Please let her know by this weekend if you are planning to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough stuff on hand. For $20, paid directly to her, you'll leave with ten beautiful homemade Christmas cards for the special people in your life. Your daughters are also invited to come if they are at least fifteen years old. Bring snacks and a salad to share during lunch.
A couple other holiday events to add to your calendar?
- Saturday, November 29th, 9:30 AM--Deck the Sanctuary! Janet will have her famous cinnamon rolls there, and you can grab a special coffee from Scoggins to go along with it. We'll have Christmas songs going in the background, and lots of laughter as we decorate the church for Christmas.
- Saturday, December 13th, our annual WOW Christmas Party at Amy's, 6 PM. I'll have all the details for you in next week's WOW-Zine so you can start planning ahead. We always have a potluck dinner and a White Elephant Gift Exchange, so I can tell you that much right now. Be watching for the theme!
This week at Common Grounds (6:30 PM Wednesday) Christine is bringing something yummy for us. For The Perk (9:30 AM Thursday) Amy R. is providing something delicious. I hope you're able to join us for either of these. It doesn't matter whether you've attended before or not--we'd love to see you!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Tuesday, October 28, 2014 WOW-Zine
Welcome to a wet Oregon week! I know we tend to get kind of tired of the rain as we deal with it month after month at this time of year, but for the past couple of days I've had two 20-something nephews visiting from California, and that puts a different spin on the rain. California, where they've had no rain for the past three years. California, where the drought has literally changed the landscape. These young men have appreciated hearing, seeing, and feeling the rain. It's a good reminder to savor the blessings we take for granted.
This week in both our Bible studies, we'll continue our journey through the book God Is Just Not Fair. We've had some sweet times of sharing and discussion these past weeks, and hope you can join us at one of the studies this week. Barbara will be bringing snacks for Common Grounds at 6:30 Wednesday night. At The Perk, 9:30 Thursday morning, Cassie will be providing something yummy.
Coming up on Friday, Nov. 7th, is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. Tickets, including handling, are $30 each. If you'd like to go you'll need to purchase tickets on your own, but could let me know and I can inform you of who else is going in case you want to carpool or make it a double date!
Saturday, Nov. 15th, Amy Rusaw is hosting and leading a Christmas Card-making party at her house. It will begin at 10 AM and go to around 2 PM, so bring a salad to share, along with a snack. Girls 15 years of age and older are invited to attend. The cost to make 10 gorgeous cards is $20, and you'll need to pay Amy directly. Let her know if you plan to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough supplies on hand.
Thank you to those of you who write and say how meaningful the devotions are that I find and include with the WOW-Zine. I'm glad they're touching your heart! Here's one for today:
This week in both our Bible studies, we'll continue our journey through the book God Is Just Not Fair. We've had some sweet times of sharing and discussion these past weeks, and hope you can join us at one of the studies this week. Barbara will be bringing snacks for Common Grounds at 6:30 Wednesday night. At The Perk, 9:30 Thursday morning, Cassie will be providing something yummy.
Coming up on Friday, Nov. 7th, is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. Tickets, including handling, are $30 each. If you'd like to go you'll need to purchase tickets on your own, but could let me know and I can inform you of who else is going in case you want to carpool or make it a double date!
Saturday, Nov. 15th, Amy Rusaw is hosting and leading a Christmas Card-making party at her house. It will begin at 10 AM and go to around 2 PM, so bring a salad to share, along with a snack. Girls 15 years of age and older are invited to attend. The cost to make 10 gorgeous cards is $20, and you'll need to pay Amy directly. Let her know if you plan to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough supplies on hand.
Thank you to those of you who write and say how meaningful the devotions are that I find and include with the WOW-Zine. I'm glad they're touching your heart! Here's one for today:
God’s Goodness in the Rear view Mirror
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him. -Psalm 34:8
What a strange sticker, I thought to myself as I glanced at the rear window of a small blue car sitting in the lane next to me at a red light. At first glance, the sign was illegible because the words were backwards. The decal had been applied on the inside of the window rather than the outside, as it was designed to be displayed. But as I focused more intently on the words and read in reverse, I realized the sign read, “God is Always Good.”
For a moment, I wondered why the petite, middle-aged woman driving the car would have applied the decal improperly. Surely she recognized that other drivers would have a difficult time reading the awkwardly displayed sign. But as I gave the scenario more thought, I realized she hadn’t applied that sign to her window for other drivers. She had placed it there for herself. The decal was positioned slightly off center so it could be seen (and easily read) every time she glanced into her rear view mirror.
I felt an immediate sense of kinship with this unknown woman. I too have experienced seasons in my life when I needed visual reminders of God’s goodness.
I taped “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28) on the dashboard of my car when I received some disappointing news.
I wrote “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8) on my bathroom mirror when my heart was broken over a tragic loss.
I’ve even written Scripture passages on my hands when I was feeling particularly down or discouraged.
As the traffic light changed from red to green and we drove in different directions, I lifted up a prayer for this mysterious woman who chooses to keep God’s goodness ever present in her rea view mirror. I would imagine her focus upon the goodness of our God will give her the strength she needs to make her way through whatever challenges she encounters on the road of life.
You may not want to paste a sign on the rear window of your car, but during seasons of disappointment or trial, I encourage you to write Scriptures that testify to God’s goodness and faithfulness in prominent places around your home, in your car, or at your workplace. You’ll find greater strength and courage for whatever lies ahead in your journey.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Tuesday, October 21, 2014--WOW-Zine
I'm back after having flown to Phoenix for the weekend to go with John to his 50th high school reunion. Funny, but his fellow classmates weren't nearly as old as I would have thought they'd be from my vantage point forty years ago! It was interesting to see that five decades puts everyone on a level playing field. It didn't matter who used to be the jocks, cheerleaders, or nerds--they were all just people reconnecting with each other.
Both Common Grounds and The Perk will meet as usual this week. Nathalie is bringing goodies for us to enjoy Wednesday evening at 6:30. On Thursday at 9:30 AM, Keisha is providing goodies and Aimee will be our MIC. Do you remember what your assignment was for this week? It was to choose one of the following verses and memorize by the time you come to study:
Ps. 145:17
Ps. 103:8
Zeph. 3:5
Ps. 37:28
Ps. 135:14
Coming up on Friday, Nov. 7th, is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. Tickets, including handling, are $30 each. If you'd like to go you'll need to purchase tickets on your own, but could let me know and I can inform you of who else is going in case you want to carpool or make it a double date!
Saturday, Nov. 15th, Amy Rusaw is hosting and leading a Christmas Card-making party at her house. It will begin at 10 AM and go to around 2 PM, so bring a salad to share, along with a snack. Girls 15 years of age and older are invited to attend. The cost to make 10 gorgeous cards is $20, and you'll need to pay Amy directly. Let her know if you plan to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough supplies on hand.
Until next week,
Both Common Grounds and The Perk will meet as usual this week. Nathalie is bringing goodies for us to enjoy Wednesday evening at 6:30. On Thursday at 9:30 AM, Keisha is providing goodies and Aimee will be our MIC. Do you remember what your assignment was for this week? It was to choose one of the following verses and memorize by the time you come to study:
Ps. 145:17
Ps. 103:8
Zeph. 3:5
Ps. 37:28
Ps. 135:14
Coming up on Friday, Nov. 7th, is the David Crowder concert at Rolling Hills. Tickets, including handling, are $30 each. If you'd like to go you'll need to purchase tickets on your own, but could let me know and I can inform you of who else is going in case you want to carpool or make it a double date!
Saturday, Nov. 15th, Amy Rusaw is hosting and leading a Christmas Card-making party at her house. It will begin at 10 AM and go to around 2 PM, so bring a salad to share, along with a snack. Girls 15 years of age and older are invited to attend. The cost to make 10 gorgeous cards is $20, and you'll need to pay Amy directly. Let her know if you plan to attend, as she needs to be sure she has enough supplies on hand.
 |        | |||
Soul CareToday is October 21st, 2014.Have a nice day and best regards. | ||
 | Women's Short Devotional | |||
My little grandson corrected me while I tried to cut his pancake into bite-sized pieces, “Gamma, I can do it on my own self.” Of course I chuckled, but his confident and somewhat arrogant statement also made me reflect. “I can do it on my own self.” How many times did my attitude with God say the same? I’d often heard the expression, “Let go and let God,” and I desperately wanted to. However, telling a person with my personality and background to relax while facing challenges is like telling me not to breathe. Can anyone relate? But on this particular morning, as I watched my grandson wrestle with his pancake, turning it into mush as he determinedly cut it up without help, I thought about my own history. In my attempts to take control of situations, how many times had I turned things into pureed muck? As I looked at my grandson’s plate that morning, I realized God knows how messy I am. He could cut my problems into bite-sized chunks if I let Him. So why I wondered, do I insist on doing things on my own self? A few years have passed since the pancake incident. My grandson is a little older, a little wiser, and though he no longer says it the same way, his independent spirit still shines through. As does mine. But these days I’m not so quick to cut my own pancakes. I’ve learned through unwanted consequences to stop trying to do everything on my own. I can’t see ahead how things will turn out. But God can. As He says in Isaiah 46:10, NIV, “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.” He knows the end from the beginning, not me. He sees the various ways my pancake, (life), will turn out based on the choices I make. If I insist on doing things independently, I’ll continue to swallow my own messes. But when I slow down, take a deep breath, hold fork in hand out to Him, and ask Him to help me cut through the problems, life becomes digestible. Knowing His purpose is to protect me from myself has helped me finally let go. | ||
 | Anita Agers-Brooks is a Business and Inspirational Coach, international speaker, author, and host of the podcast, Fresh Faith Inspirations with Anita Brooks. She is passionate about business with integrity, healthy relationships, and issues of identity. Anita loves lounging by a lake with her husband, and believes it’s never too late for a fresh start with fresh faith. More of Anita Agers-Brooks:http://anitabrooks.com/ |
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Tuesday, October 14, 2014 WOW-Zine
Good morning, ladies. It's good to see you here on this rainy day. I guess Fall has really arrived. Time to bring out the jeans and long-sleeved shirts, along with an extra cup of coffee or tea.
A HUGE THANKS to all of you in the Saturday Life Group who helped throw the Harvest Party for the church last weekend. I was unable to attend, but have heard a lot of good things being said about it. I know it's a ton of work to set up, host, and tear down, and you all did it with grace and made everyone feel welcomed.
This week, as we continue to study God Is Just Not Fair, we'll be looking at how we can learn to be grateful even when things aren't going the way we think they should. Common Grounds meets Wednesday evenings at 6:30. Rita is providing treats for us this week. I'll teach the same lesson again at The Perk on Thursday morning at 9:30. Carol R. is bringing goodies for us to munch on, and childcare will be provided by our lovely Danielle and Keisha.
Your Women's Ministry Team will be meeting tonight, so be watching for upcoming events. We've got a good year ahead of us!
I came across a new resource the other day. FaithHappenings.com is a great place to find out about Christian events in our local area, as well as encouraging words for the day. Here's an apt devotion from a few days ago, by Patricia Lee--
A HUGE THANKS to all of you in the Saturday Life Group who helped throw the Harvest Party for the church last weekend. I was unable to attend, but have heard a lot of good things being said about it. I know it's a ton of work to set up, host, and tear down, and you all did it with grace and made everyone feel welcomed.
This week, as we continue to study God Is Just Not Fair, we'll be looking at how we can learn to be grateful even when things aren't going the way we think they should. Common Grounds meets Wednesday evenings at 6:30. Rita is providing treats for us this week. I'll teach the same lesson again at The Perk on Thursday morning at 9:30. Carol R. is bringing goodies for us to munch on, and childcare will be provided by our lovely Danielle and Keisha.
Your Women's Ministry Team will be meeting tonight, so be watching for upcoming events. We've got a good year ahead of us!
I came across a new resource the other day. FaithHappenings.com is a great place to find out about Christian events in our local area, as well as encouraging words for the day. Here's an apt devotion from a few days ago, by Patricia Lee--
Finding God in the Seasons of Our Lives
When the weatherman forecast rain just days before the autumnal equinox in September, I admit I was delighted. Oregon summers are fairly mild—temperatures rarely edge about ninety degrees and the humidity is low.
I’ve several acquaintances from other parts of the country who came as students and elected to stay for the wonderful summers. Not so this year. We experienced a record number of days climbing above ninety degrees, beginning in July and stretching through September. I wondered if those friends I mentioned were now disillusioned and seeking greener pastures.
Even though a native Oregonian, I confess considering some other place to live. But autumn did arrive and with it a prediction of rain. I wandered outside to water the remaining handful of summer plants, checking for precipitation. My street was dry, but I could smell the rain in the air, as intoxicating as walking by a bakery after the bread comes out of the oven.
I think God gave us seasons to teach us about life. Most of us miss the spring of our lives because we are busy being children and discovering the world around us.
Summer follows and we fall in love, have our own offspring, and decide what we plan to pursue in life.
Fall arrives—that season in our lives where our pursuits begin to reap dividends and we can see the fruits of our labors.
Then, after the harvest is complete, we settle in for winter.
Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8 (NIV): “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time for love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”
May you find joy in this season of your life.
Monday, October 6, 2014
Monday, October 6, 2014 WOW-Zine
Good morning, ladies. I'm writing this a day early, and it's going to be a short WOW-Zine today, as I'm on Grandma Duty in Tigard. Not sure why that means this will be condensed, but somehow it makes sense to me! The kids are at school right now, so I guess I could visit with you all morning, but you probably have other things to do too. Let's meet up at one of the Bible studies this week and visit then!
For this week's Common Grounds, Jody signed up for treats. (Wednesday, 6:30-8 PM). For The Perk (Thursday, 9:30-11) Cassie is our MIC and Nicole is bringing goodies. This week we'll be talking about delayed justice in our study of God is Just Not Fair.
The big thing coming up this week is the Harvest Party from 5-8 at the Krautscheid's (4990 Old Highway 47) on Saturday, the 11th. If you've been to these events in the past, you know how much fun they are. It's a great opportunity to bring friends along with you, as it's very family-friendly. (How could it be anything else at the Krautscheid's??!) Bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on, as well as food for the potluck. Everyone needs to bring a main dish. If your last name starts with A-L, ALSO bring a salad or side dish. The rest of you, M-Z, ALSO bring a dessert. Thanks to the Saturday Night Life Group for hosting this event!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
For this week's Common Grounds, Jody signed up for treats. (Wednesday, 6:30-8 PM). For The Perk (Thursday, 9:30-11) Cassie is our MIC and Nicole is bringing goodies. This week we'll be talking about delayed justice in our study of God is Just Not Fair.
The big thing coming up this week is the Harvest Party from 5-8 at the Krautscheid's (4990 Old Highway 47) on Saturday, the 11th. If you've been to these events in the past, you know how much fun they are. It's a great opportunity to bring friends along with you, as it's very family-friendly. (How could it be anything else at the Krautscheid's??!) Bring your own chairs or blankets to sit on, as well as food for the potluck. Everyone needs to bring a main dish. If your last name starts with A-L, ALSO bring a salad or side dish. The rest of you, M-Z, ALSO bring a dessert. Thanks to the Saturday Night Life Group for hosting this event!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
It's hard to believe that this is my youngest's 37th birthday! You may not believe this, but the truth is that when she was born, we lived in rural Nevada (most of it is!) and were an hour away from the hospital. We were so rural (I can hear you asking, "How rural were you?") that we didn't even have telephones! So there was no calling the doctor to see if it was time to head to the hospital. I just had to trust my gut and my contractions! What a gift to get Christina at the end of a 4-1/2 hour labor!
The big thing going on this week is the marriage seminar this weekend. Wapato is excited to have David & Kelli Pritchard bring teaching on marriage and parenting! We will begin Friday evening with a potluck meal at the Rusaw’s, with an informal meet and greet. (Limited to 20 couples) Those who have signed up, please meet at the Rusaw’s at 6:30 pm with a main dish and a side, salad or dessert.
Saturday, Oct 4th, meet at Wapato from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm for sessions on marriage and parenting, followed with a Date Night “assignment”.
On Sunday, the Pritchards will share during our worship service. We will be taking a special offering for their ministry. Please spread the word and invite your friends! It's not too late to sign-up! Call the church office at 503-985-3351.
The big thing going on this week is the marriage seminar this weekend. Wapato is excited to have David & Kelli Pritchard bring teaching on marriage and parenting! We will begin Friday evening with a potluck meal at the Rusaw’s, with an informal meet and greet. (Limited to 20 couples) Those who have signed up, please meet at the Rusaw’s at 6:30 pm with a main dish and a side, salad or dessert.
Saturday, Oct 4th, meet at Wapato from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm for sessions on marriage and parenting, followed with a Date Night “assignment”.
Suggested donation $20 per person for the seminar.
On Sunday, the Pritchards will share during our worship service. We will be taking a special offering for their ministry. Please spread the word and invite your friends! It's not too late to sign-up! Call the church office at 503-985-3351.
Common Grounds and The Perk (our womens' Bible studies) meet this week as usual. Common Grounds is on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8, and Nathalie is bringing our treats. Thursday morning for The Perk, Aimee is providing snacks, and Kristen S. is our MIC. Thank you, ladies, for your help!
We only got partway through our lesson last week, so will finish it up this week and start the next one. (Remember, you just show up--no book needed, no homework, no excuse not to come!) Last week we talked about different views regarding healing (not just physical healing) and of how some people believe they deserve to be healed by God because of their faith and God's goodness. Others of us believe healing is not based on our faith or merit, but on God's plan for our life. We took a look at the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednago (or, as my parents always said, AbedWEgo!) in Daniel 3:8-30. We saw that sometimes God chooses to deliver us through the fire, rather than from it. So come join us this week as we continue studying what we deserve from the Lord.
Thanks to all of you who showed up Friday night to watch the movie Moms' Night Out. That was the most entertaining movie I've seen in a long time. We got to share a lot of laughter and groans!
Coming up NEXT WEEKEND (those who saw the movie will know what I'm alluding to!) is the Wapato Harvest Party. This family event will be on Saturday, Oct 11th, from 5-8 PM at the Krautscheid's. Food, games, pumpkin dish contest, fellowship! This will be a potluck - bring a main dish, plus A- L: salad or side dish and M-Z: dessert. Bring your own chair or blanket to sit on, and dress for the weather. Optional pumpkin dish contest - start refining those recipes now! If you have some pumpkins, hay bales or other harvest decor you can lend for the evening, let the office know.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Womens' Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Tuesday, September 23, 2014--WOW-Zine
Hello there, my friends!
Let me start right off with the most important thing I need to tell you this week, and that regards a CHANGE OF VENUE AND TIME for our WOW Movie Night. It will still be this Friday, Sept. 26th, but will be indoors at 7:30 at Janet George's. (2751 Phillips Rd., Gaston. She's about 1/2 mile up from Karen's driveway. The house is on the left side and the address on the mailbox is easy to see. And their motor home is near the road, which is another good indication that you're at the right place!) Now you won't have to bring all the stuff to keep warm outdoors, but don't forget to bring a snack to share. We'll be watching Mom's Night Out, and this event is open to high school girls also. Karen, who was going to host this event, is back in Illinois spending precious final hours with her grandma, who is dying. Our prayers are with Karen and family.
We got off to a good start in both Bible studies last week, and it's just going to keep getting better. It would be even better if you would come too! Last week was our introduction to God Is Just Not Fair. There are a lot of questions we tend to ask God when life gets hard and we can't figure it out--God, is this fair? Do You err? Do You hear my prayer? Do You care? Are You aware? Are You there?
You may have wondered why I asked people to bring a blanket with them to study. It's because we all have a "faith blanket," comprised of the things we believe, the experiences we've had, etc. It was fun to have the ladies say why they liked their "blankies" so much and to hear the stories behind them. One was about 30 years old and had holes and tears, and stuffing all bunched up in one corner with no batting at all in the center. Another was simply tatters, held together with love. And don't you find that's what happens to your faith blanket? The hard stuff happens and our questions create holes and tears. But just because the blanket is torn doesn't mean we don't continue to wrap it tightly around ourselves. We talked about Job and how in the midst of all his questioning (he asks over 60 of them in that book!) he pulls his blanket tightly around him and says, "Though He slay me, I will still trust Him," (Job 13:15) and "I know that my Redeemer lives!" (Job 19:25). When we have questions, getting answers isn't the answer. The answer comes in seeing God through the rips in our faith blankets.
So join us this week at either Common Grounds on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 (Kristin L. is bringing snacks) or at The Perk on Thursday morning at 9:30 (Kristen S. is bringing snacks, and Stephanie will be our Mother-in-Charge.) This week we'll be talking about our Just Desserts!
I hope you're telling your friends about the marriage and parenting event Wapato is sponsoring the first weekend of October, led by the Pritchards, nationally sought-after speakers on these subjects. Sign-up sheets started filling up Sunday. You can still sign up this Sunday, or call the church office (503-985-3351) to get your name on the list. Suggested cost is $20 per person. Friday night's (Oct. 3rd) event will be a potluck dinner at the Rusaws and the opportunity to hang out with the Pritchards and Saturdays seminars will take place at the church. This event is open to everyone, but no child care is provided.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Let me start right off with the most important thing I need to tell you this week, and that regards a CHANGE OF VENUE AND TIME for our WOW Movie Night. It will still be this Friday, Sept. 26th, but will be indoors at 7:30 at Janet George's. (2751 Phillips Rd., Gaston. She's about 1/2 mile up from Karen's driveway. The house is on the left side and the address on the mailbox is easy to see. And their motor home is near the road, which is another good indication that you're at the right place!) Now you won't have to bring all the stuff to keep warm outdoors, but don't forget to bring a snack to share. We'll be watching Mom's Night Out, and this event is open to high school girls also. Karen, who was going to host this event, is back in Illinois spending precious final hours with her grandma, who is dying. Our prayers are with Karen and family.
We got off to a good start in both Bible studies last week, and it's just going to keep getting better. It would be even better if you would come too! Last week was our introduction to God Is Just Not Fair. There are a lot of questions we tend to ask God when life gets hard and we can't figure it out--God, is this fair? Do You err? Do You hear my prayer? Do You care? Are You aware? Are You there?
You may have wondered why I asked people to bring a blanket with them to study. It's because we all have a "faith blanket," comprised of the things we believe, the experiences we've had, etc. It was fun to have the ladies say why they liked their "blankies" so much and to hear the stories behind them. One was about 30 years old and had holes and tears, and stuffing all bunched up in one corner with no batting at all in the center. Another was simply tatters, held together with love. And don't you find that's what happens to your faith blanket? The hard stuff happens and our questions create holes and tears. But just because the blanket is torn doesn't mean we don't continue to wrap it tightly around ourselves. We talked about Job and how in the midst of all his questioning (he asks over 60 of them in that book!) he pulls his blanket tightly around him and says, "Though He slay me, I will still trust Him," (Job 13:15) and "I know that my Redeemer lives!" (Job 19:25). When we have questions, getting answers isn't the answer. The answer comes in seeing God through the rips in our faith blankets.
So join us this week at either Common Grounds on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 (Kristin L. is bringing snacks) or at The Perk on Thursday morning at 9:30 (Kristen S. is bringing snacks, and Stephanie will be our Mother-in-Charge.) This week we'll be talking about our Just Desserts!
I hope you're telling your friends about the marriage and parenting event Wapato is sponsoring the first weekend of October, led by the Pritchards, nationally sought-after speakers on these subjects. Sign-up sheets started filling up Sunday. You can still sign up this Sunday, or call the church office (503-985-3351) to get your name on the list. Suggested cost is $20 per person. Friday night's (Oct. 3rd) event will be a potluck dinner at the Rusaws and the opportunity to hang out with the Pritchards and Saturdays seminars will take place at the church. This event is open to everyone, but no child care is provided.
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2014 WOW-Zine
Good morning, ladies. I don't know what's going on in your lives today, but I'm pretty sure all of us are very busy. Whether it's entertaining little kids at home, dealing with the drama of school, finding your path through difficult relationship problems, or going through a day out in the work force, we may be facing challenging hours. Let me share this verse of encouragement from Romans 15:13--May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Isn't that a wonderful verse? The joy and peace that we all long for doesn't find its source in ourselves, but in the Lord. And He doesn't just give us a little dab of it, but causes us to overflow. Think of when your washer or toilet overflow--it's hard to contain. God, through the power of the Holy Spirit, wants our joy and peace to be more than we can contain, even during the extreme difficulties of life. Will you let Him do that today?
I'm so excited! Both our Bible studies resume this week, and I can hardly wait to get together with each of you! If you've never attended before, now is the perfect time to jump in. You will find a safe place to grow in the Lord. God Is Just Not Fair is our theme for this year, and I am loving my time spent preparing the lessons for us. You won't want to miss a week as we work our way through some of the hard questions of life.
Common Grounds meets on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 PM, and The Perk studies the same lesson on Thursdays from 9:30 to 11 AM. I still need someone to bring snacks for this Wednesday. Stephanie is bringing treats for Thursday, but I still need a woman to volunteer to work with Danielle in taking care of the kiddos that morning. I know everyone hates to miss out on the actual study, but until such time as we're able to have one person who takes that on each week as a ministry, we're going to have to take turns. If you do it this week, you'll get it out of the way for several weeks! Please let me know if you can do it this week.
Are you ready for some fun?? Then plan on coming out to our WOW Movie Night Under The Stars on Friday, September 26th. We'll meet at Karen's at 8 PM. Bring along a snack to share, a camp chair and blankets or sleeping bag to keep yourself warm. This event is open to those girls who are at least in high school. We've got the perfect movie to watch--Mom's Night Out!
Just a reminder that you don't have to fix lunch this coming Sunday! Wapato Valley Church will be providing a free lunch after the worship service to celebrate our 15th birthday!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Isn't that a wonderful verse? The joy and peace that we all long for doesn't find its source in ourselves, but in the Lord. And He doesn't just give us a little dab of it, but causes us to overflow. Think of when your washer or toilet overflow--it's hard to contain. God, through the power of the Holy Spirit, wants our joy and peace to be more than we can contain, even during the extreme difficulties of life. Will you let Him do that today?
I'm so excited! Both our Bible studies resume this week, and I can hardly wait to get together with each of you! If you've never attended before, now is the perfect time to jump in. You will find a safe place to grow in the Lord. God Is Just Not Fair is our theme for this year, and I am loving my time spent preparing the lessons for us. You won't want to miss a week as we work our way through some of the hard questions of life.
Common Grounds meets on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 PM, and The Perk studies the same lesson on Thursdays from 9:30 to 11 AM. I still need someone to bring snacks for this Wednesday. Stephanie is bringing treats for Thursday, but I still need a woman to volunteer to work with Danielle in taking care of the kiddos that morning. I know everyone hates to miss out on the actual study, but until such time as we're able to have one person who takes that on each week as a ministry, we're going to have to take turns. If you do it this week, you'll get it out of the way for several weeks! Please let me know if you can do it this week.
Are you ready for some fun?? Then plan on coming out to our WOW Movie Night Under The Stars on Friday, September 26th. We'll meet at Karen's at 8 PM. Bring along a snack to share, a camp chair and blankets or sleeping bag to keep yourself warm. This event is open to those girls who are at least in high school. We've got the perfect movie to watch--Mom's Night Out!
Just a reminder that you don't have to fix lunch this coming Sunday! Wapato Valley Church will be providing a free lunch after the worship service to celebrate our 15th birthday!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Tuesday, September 9, 2014 WOW-Zine
What a beautiful, early-fall day! I was just out watering my garden and enjoying the warm sun in the cool air, the sounds of bird calls echoing through our forest. A little piece of heaven! And don't we all need a little peace of heaven? Here's hoping you'll find time to experience that at some point during the day.
Coming soon, to a Bible study near you--God Is Just Not Fair. Ladies, I'm really excited about this new study, as I'm pretty sure we all deal with some of the following thoughts from time to time--Is God fair? Can He change? If He really cared, wouldn't He get me out of this situation? Those, and many more questions will get our minds and hearts engaged as we meet together to study the Word this year.
We'll start off next Wednesday night, September 17th, at the church. The Wednesday night group is affectionately known as Common Grounds, and meets at 6:30 PM. I try to get us out of there as close to 8 as possible. Feel free to bring dinner with you if you're kind of rushed making it after work. Would someone like to volunteer to bring a treat next week? Let me know if you would.
The following day, Thursday, at 9:30 AM, The Perk will begin our year. We work together to provide child care for this, with a different mother each week (known as the Mother In Charge--or MIC) assisted by Danielle Anderson providing care for your children. Who would like to volunteer for this coming Thursday, the 18th? And I'd also love to have someone sign up to bring treats that morning too. You know, Bible study just goes better with a cup of coffee or tea, and a little something to nibble on! (I'll have to do extensive research to find a verse to support that idea, but it sure seems to be true!)
Perhaps you've never attended our Bible studies before. Well, this is the perfect time to jump in! Everyone is at different stages of their Christian walk, and as we share, we learn from each other. Our studies are very interactive with lots of discussion among the teaching. I encourage you to pick one of these days (the same lesson is taught at both groups) and commit to showing up each week. I think you'll benefit spiritually and emotionally as you join other women around God's word.
Your Women's Ministry Team is meeting tonight to begin planning some of the activities we'll offer throughout the year. So be looking for up-coming news about those!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
Coming soon, to a Bible study near you--God Is Just Not Fair. Ladies, I'm really excited about this new study, as I'm pretty sure we all deal with some of the following thoughts from time to time--Is God fair? Can He change? If He really cared, wouldn't He get me out of this situation? Those, and many more questions will get our minds and hearts engaged as we meet together to study the Word this year.
We'll start off next Wednesday night, September 17th, at the church. The Wednesday night group is affectionately known as Common Grounds, and meets at 6:30 PM. I try to get us out of there as close to 8 as possible. Feel free to bring dinner with you if you're kind of rushed making it after work. Would someone like to volunteer to bring a treat next week? Let me know if you would.
The following day, Thursday, at 9:30 AM, The Perk will begin our year. We work together to provide child care for this, with a different mother each week (known as the Mother In Charge--or MIC) assisted by Danielle Anderson providing care for your children. Who would like to volunteer for this coming Thursday, the 18th? And I'd also love to have someone sign up to bring treats that morning too. You know, Bible study just goes better with a cup of coffee or tea, and a little something to nibble on! (I'll have to do extensive research to find a verse to support that idea, but it sure seems to be true!)
Perhaps you've never attended our Bible studies before. Well, this is the perfect time to jump in! Everyone is at different stages of their Christian walk, and as we share, we learn from each other. Our studies are very interactive with lots of discussion among the teaching. I encourage you to pick one of these days (the same lesson is taught at both groups) and commit to showing up each week. I think you'll benefit spiritually and emotionally as you join other women around God's word.
Your Women's Ministry Team is meeting tonight to begin planning some of the activities we'll offer throughout the year. So be looking for up-coming news about those!
Until next week,
Sherrie Ashcraft, Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@gmail.com 971-285-6699
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