The Calvary Connection

April 28, 2010

Greetings!

This past Sunday was one of celebration at Calvary as 32 eighth graders were confirmed and received into membership. Confirmation Sunday is always a high point in the life of the church as it celebrates the culmination of ongoing nurture, spiritual growth, and a year of guided studies.

We began Sunday morning with unexpected excitement during our 8 am worship service! A loss of pressure in one our water lines caused the fire alarm system to activate. Larry Gamblin, Director of Building & Grounds, responded quickly and professionally to accurately assess the situation. At no time was the congregation in danger and by the end of our 9:30 am service we were back to our regular Sunday morning environment.

At our 11 am service the Calvary family witnessed the confirmation ceremony as students knelt while pastors, parents and mentors surrounded each for the personal pronouncement of affirmation. These confirmands are more than just new members of Calvary - they are our future. This was demonstrated when our Administrative Board Chair Dale Hall passed the torch to Giles Roll, a member of our confirmation class. Perhaps one day Giles will be passing the torch to another class of confirmands.

Pastor Lori, Michael and I have felt great pride with how these young people have grown and developed this past year. It was a pleasure to work with them as they were thoughtful and inquisitive throughout our weekly sessions. We are blessed as a church to be part of the cultivation of these young Christians. We are thankful to God for this and every opportunity to help make disciples for Jesus Christ.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Randall K. Perry (bio)
Directing Pastor

Opportunities to Connect

(click on the title to read the entire article)

2010 Congregational Survey
Last Sunday a congregational survey was introduced to the Calvary family. We are asking each household to complete one survey. The results will help staff and lay leadership plan for Calvary's future and maximize the use of our current facility.

Support Our Soldiers
Calvary was excited to launch a new program this Sunday to support our servicemen and women serving our nation. Learn how you can get involved!

Volunteer at East Bay Camp
Calvary's Outreach Committee is sponsoring two opportunities for hands on service at East Bay Camp on Lake Bloomington. Is God calling you to give a couple hours of your time?

Couples Night Out
Mark your calendars for Friday, May 7, as we gear up for another Couple's Night Out at Calvary. This is an awesome opportunity for couples to spend a fun night out and build their relationship in the process.

Teacher Appreciation Brunch Support
KidVenture Children's Ministries will be holding a special appreciation brunch for teachers and volunteers this Sunday. Is God calling you to help make this brunch a reality?

New Member Class
Are you interested in learning more about Calvary or considering becoming a member? Stop by Calvary's next new member class on May 16!

Pastor Lori Leaving Calvary June 13

Pastor Lori will be leaving Calvary June 13. Plans are underway for a big celebration - stay tuned!

Vacation Bible School 2010
Vacation Bible School registration is still open! Download registration forms and get in the game for God!

News from Missionary Linda Unger
Calvary supported missionary Linda Unger is making a difference in Africa because of the generousity of the Calvary people.

News Nuggets

In preparation for Graduation Sunday on May 23, Calvary Student Ministries is collecting pictures of high school seniors through the years. Three to six photos per senior are requested (including a senior portrait). Contact Dave Moravec (309-838-1947, ddmoravec5@msn.com).
The summer edition of Seasons, Calvary's guide to adult Bible studies, support groups and more will hit the Atrium on Sunday, May 9. Be sure to pick up a copy of Seasons to get plugged in to spiritual growth opportunities this summer!
New Upper Room Devotionals are available at the Welcome Center.
The Calvary family is invited to volunteer at Midwest Food Bank on Wednesday, May 12, 6:30-8 pm. We will sort food, bag beans and help prepare the next food shipment. RSVP by Sunday, May 9, at the table in the Atrium. Contact Susan Sopek (309-662-4752, srsopek@verizon.net).
Here's your opportunity to volunteer during third quarter! Calvary will hold Super Sign Up Sunday on May 2 and 9 in the Atrium. We need many volunteers each Sunday including: greeters, door openers, ushers and so much more! Contact Doretta Irwin (309-452-5413, dorettai@cumcnormal.org).
Ladies of all ages, in four, one-hour rehearsals you can be in Sister Act! Our first rehearsal will be Wednesday, May 5, 6-7 pm (also May 12, 19 and 26). We sing, move and are filled with a love for serving the Lord enthusiastically! Sister Act will be presented on September 11 at the Fiftieth Celebration. Contact Pat Messinger (309-287-1747, patmessinger@comcast.net).
Mornings with Moms is headed to the Calvary Garage on Friday, May 7, 9-11 am. Jim Swearingen and Richard Nielsen will be our guests as they share the fine art of woodworking. Enjoy this time of learning while also completing a fun project! Childcare will be provided. Contact Lori Short (loris@cumcnormal.org) if you plan to attend so we can have plenty of supplies available; however, walk-ins are always welcome!
Sunday is the last day for Candle Sales, a fundraiser for Calvary Student Ministries Reach Workcamp trip. A variety to scents are available, candles are $16.50 each. Stop by the CSM table in the Atrium to purchase a great Mother's Day gift and support our annual trip to Reach Workcamp.