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The XP Report |
 It's hard to believe that I have been the Executive Pastor (XP) here at Bethany for a year now! I started back on July 30, 2007 part-time, and then transitioned to full time on April 1 (no fooling!) Time sure flies when you are having fun and keeping busy, and I'm doing both of those!
As with any new calling (or job,) it takes a little while to get comfortable with the surroundings. Fortunately, having been a member at Bethany since 1993 and an elder for two terms, I had some familiarity with what's been happening at Bethany. But being on staff is quite different; there is so much more happening at Bethany than I had known about! Switching gears from the business world to the ministry world has also been a challenge, but one that I am really starting to appreciate.
Let me refresh your memory on what I do as XP: Lead the people who work for Bethany Community Church and manage the resources that they work in and that you, as members and attendees of Bethany, use in worship and service to God. I let our Senior Pastor, Rich Hendrix, focus on preaching and teaching the Word of God, shepherding and counseling God's people and casting vision for the future.
Let me tell you, if you don't already know, we have wonderful, godly people on staff, and it's a pleasure to work with them! Also, we have a magnificent campus with some great buildings in which to do God's work. It's a pleasure to come to this campus everyday. Now, there are some minor problems here and there, and just like your house or apartment, there are always things that need repair. But overall, God has really blessed us!
I hope to make my "XP Report" a regular feature in upcoming E-News. I'll try to let you know what's happening with the campus, resources and people that are Bethany. If you have any questions or suggestions for topics that interest you, let me know. My email address is jcrocco@bethanycc.com, or call me at 480.831.5005.
Thanks for the opportunity to serve as your Executive Pastor. It's an honor and privilege!
Blessings,
Jim Crocco |
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A Word from Rich |
Political SeasonI admit to being a political junky. I just love American politics (but strangely I hate church politics!). I never met an election cycle I didn't like. Mind you, I don't have any delusions that politics or political leaders will save us or solve the really important issues of human life. But I love the unique privilege of selecting leaders in our country. I'm nowhere near convinced that our process is serving us well these days, meaning I'm not sure that either party has put forth the best, most qualified candidate for President in the whole population any time in recent memory. But I sure love the idea of free people freely identifying and empowering their own leaders. What a concept.  But every American knows that the concept only works if we, the people are informed and involved. Some years that may mean voting for the least objectionable candidate. I know there have been times I have held my nose and voted. But I voted. And I won't quit or give up as long as this freedom, this opportunity is mine. Other times I have been enthusiastically supportive of a candidate I really trusted and believed in. My record of voting for candidates that turned out to be good ones is mixed at best. In hindsight, I'd certainly cast some votes differently if I had it to do over. But I've never regretted voting. In fact, I always feel a great sense of pride and privilege in affixing that little "I voted" sticker to my shirt and heading off to work after casting my one precious vote. Not surprisingly, the Bible never actually mentions voting, but it has a ton to say about being the people of God in the world, about being citizens of God's Kingdom while living in an earthly empire (or republic). And it is eloquent in its call to us to use our lives and influence for goodness and righteousness in the world. I'm not sure that Scripture anywhere implies that our greatest influence will be by voting, but voting is one way our voice is heard. In a pluralistic, secular democracy like ours our influence at the polls probably is actually less than the real-world influence we have every day as individual citizens who orient our lives around the truth of God and his grace to people. We certainly make a far greater mark in our world by the way we live and serve others in our immediate communities. But voting remains a part of our influence and a part of our responsibility. Of course, deciding who to vote for is hard. Sorting out campaign rhetoric from real truth isn't easy. Discerning who can be trusted and who is good to their word is a daunting task. And expressing our values and commitments in voting is a huge challenge too. For followers of Jesus we have to remember that he actually said very little about economic or military security, but a great deal about matters of truth and justice and care for the poor. I'm not saying any of those priorities is the sole, or even primary responsibility of government, but our hearts for people who are created in the image of God and are dearly loved by the Savior (even before they accept his love) ought to be an influence in determining our political values and votes. For a Christ-follower, voting can't just be about what is best for me personally, what suits my family most and what I would like for America. I have to vote thinking that my first and greatest loyalty is to God who made me and redeemed me for his eternal purposes. I have to understand that I am a steward of my one vote, just as I am of everything else I have in this world. I hold them in trust for God who gave them to me and I am responsible to use every asset I have for his glory more than for my own comfort and convenience. So, I urge all of us who are citizens of this great country, to use the next 96 days leading up to election day in America to get informed. About what the candidates believe and stand for. But also informed about what it means to be a follower of Christ in the real world. Including in the voting booth. -Richard Hendrix
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Preschool and Beyond |
Bethany Learning Center, a ministry of Bethany Community Church, continues to register for the 2008-09 school year for those ages 15 months thru Kindergarten. Before and after care is offered. Spots are still available in some age levels. For more information, contact 480.838.2440 or visit www.blcforjesus.org. |
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Children's Ministry Column |
 Back From Camp
Transformer Summer Camp was a non-stop adrenaline rush from the moment we left! 2008 found us back at Tonto Rim ready to jump into all the fun and excitement this 4th and 5th grade camp had to offer...soaring through the trees on the zip-line, cliff jumping into the creek, racing mountain scooters, canoeing on the lake, soaking each other in water wars, playing rocket ball in camp, and shooting paintball in the forest!
This was a camp of "firsts" where many of our kids had first-time experiences. "First-time trusting Jesus" tops the list. Others were "first-time being away this long on my own" and "first-time I ever went horseback riding." Each day brought an opportunity to hear something new about God's desire and plan for us. We gave back to Him regularly through our worship and quiet times together as cabin groups. From early morning to late late night, every day was filled with more adrenaline, more experiences and more memories than can ever be contained. Talk to one of our campers and catch some of the overflow.
-Kevin Kramar
Bethany Volunteer Camp Counselor
Early Childhood Ministry Volunteer Opportunity
Parents have the opportunity to assist the teachers during 9am & 10:45am services in the A building classrooms. Please sign up and indicate the frequency which you are available to serve. We will contact you soon to make rotation arrangements. Frequency of service: Odd months, even months, one week a month or substitute/on-call. Please contact Robin Johnson or 480.831.5005 X465
Couple Finds Treasure
A couple years ago, my wife Beth and I were challenged by some changes that were occurring at Bethany, particularly the downsizing of staff. Knowing that we love Bethany and the opportunities it provides for lay ministry, it was easy for us to decide and become more involved in a class where our youngest child was spending his Sundays. This class had just begun to focus specifically on the needs of the age group, 4th and 5th graders, and were calling themselves the "transformers", modeled after Romans 12:2. Little did we know that it would become one of the more special parts of our personal and Christian growth. Without too much detail, I can say that the relationships we have formed with this group have been exciting, passionate, and challenging. There is not a Sunday that goes by where, when we walk into that room, several of the kids will come up and engage us with hugs and conversation about their  lives. The time spent with them in worship, prayer, studying the Bible and play is mutually joyful, precisely that "treasure" that is mentioned in Matthew 13:44. I would only encourage others to become involved at some level. Although our needs are great in children's ministry, ALL areas of the church are in need of help and leadership from those of us who call Bethany "home". This is what the Great Commission was, and is all about!
--Brad |
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Upcoming Events |
Step Right Up! Read All About It! "Our family had an awesome afternoon together at the water park!" , "I got to speak to my grand daughter on the phone today!", "That new recipe I tried at dinner tonight was fabulous!" "I lost the last 10 lbs I've been trying to lose for months", "I found the cutest shoes to go with that new sundress!" "My son was recognized at school this week for having good character!", "I passed that Biology test I was so worried about!", "Our new puppy is just adorable!", "My children are starting to use their manners at the dinner table!", "The presentation I just gave went really well and I remembered everything I was trying to cover!" In the face of all the bad news we so frequently hear reported, we can often overlook the good news that surrounds us everyday. Come Thursday, August 27, to the H building from 6-8:80pm to kick-off Bethany Community Church Women's Ministry 2008-09 season. There will be refreshing salads and decadent desserts. We will share good news and hear about all of the exciting events coming up for the year. Get your tickets Sunday in the courtyard or in the church office during the week. Cost is $5 per person. Contact Mary Beth Cochran at 480.831.5005 for more information or mbcochran@bethanycc.com
"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Romans 10:15
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New - Stretch and Tone Zone Class Need help staying in shape and feeling fit? Join this new fitness class designed to strengthen and tone your core using light weights, therapy bands and rist-a-bands. Learn the proper techniques to correctly use light weights, how to balance and stabilize muscles and stretch so you don't loose flexibility. Class is offered two nights a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30pm in F1. Cost is $5 per class with minimum sign up of 10 classes. Wear loose clothing, bring 5-6lb weights and a mat. This is a beginner friendly class. Space is limited so register soon. Contact Mary Beth Cochran at mbcochran@bethanycc.com
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Biblical Hebrew Class
 A new class will be forming in the fall for any persons interested in studying the original language of the Old Testament. The class will meet weekly for one hour and require 3-4 hours per week of study. The time for meeting will be determined by those attending the class. The teacher for this course is Jill Pack. Jill has taught similar classes in several valley churches. She has studied extensively at ASU, Fuller Seminary and under Hebrew University professors in Israel. If you would like to be a part of this class, please email Robyn Dahl at rdahl@bethanycc.com or sign up at the Women's Ministry table on Sundays. _____________________________________________________________
Friday, August 8 at 7pm Do you love to play games, share and enjoy delicious appetizers, or just chat with the gals? Then Girlfriend Connection is the place for you! Join us every second Friday in C2. All ages are welcome to enjoy the fun and great times. There is no cost and new friends are always encouraged to come. For more information, contact Noreen Hurd at 480.820.3788 or for an electronic reminder the week of Girlfriend Connection send your email address to mbcochran@bethanycc.com. |
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Community Outreach |
International Friends - Sunday, August 10
 Do you ever wonder what it's like to live in another country, experience a different culture? Well here's your chance-and all from the comfort of home.
At the beginning of each ASU school year, International Students, Inc., headed up by Dan McCoy, recruits Christian families and individuals to participate in ASU's International Friends. This program matches an American family or individual with an international student attending ASU. The family or individual tries to make contact with the student at least once a month for an activity or perhaps just by sending a card or note or making a phone call.
The goal of the experience is a two-way exchange of culture and friendship. Students can experience real American life and develop a friend to whom they can turn if they are homesick or in trouble. What better way to introduce Jesus to someone from another country than by modeling Him as a genuine friend?
Stop at the table in the courtyard on Sunday, August 10, to learn more about the program and sign up for training scheduled for late August.
Questions? Contact Sebastian Albert.
I-HELP
Many people at Bethany are getting involved in feeding the homeless through the Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program (I-Help) in Tempe. Diana Keller wrote this letter telling how the experience impacted her family.
On Thursday, June 26 my daughter, husband and I took part in helping an adult community from Bethany Community Church feed the homeless through the program I-Help. First of all, with the great supervision of Cheryl Chamberlain, our part was easy. I learned many things by speaking with our new friends. First of all any one of us could be there with some bad fortune in our lives. Many were people just like us that had bad luck and made a few bad choices which put them in this situation. Those who got lucky in the lottery system to be bused to this location for dinner and a place to sleep for the night were very grateful and appreciated everything we did for them. They all devoured the food and were saving some for later. They all helped to clear the tables and set up for the night. All were very respectful and complimented all the helpers. It was enlightening to speak with them and find out their stories and how they survive.
My family left feeling very blessed that we were able to help and realized how very small our problems are compared to most of these. We heard some say now that they have God in their lives, everything will be better.
My family will be taking the July 26 night and are eager to give them the best dinner ever. It is the least we can do! I would encourage everyone to take part in this vital program.
Others who have planned and served meals for the I-HELP program during the months of June and July include: Single Vision, World Community and Crossover Faith Communities, as well as Cheryl Chamberlain's bunko group. Do you have a heart for the homeless? If so, contact Cheryl Chamberlain. She'll be happy to get you plugged in.
Los Niņos of Guadalupe
 Wow! Thanks to the people of Bethany for your generous Christmas gifts to the Los Niņos kids: 218 art supplies, 23 bicycle repair items, 34 skeins of yarn and crochet hooks, 3 raffle prizes, and 23 miscellaneous toys/books, plus $65 in cash & gift cards. You are the absolute best. If you missed the opportunity to learn of the exciting things the Los Niņos of Guadalupe program is doing this year, contact Cindy Paul.
If you and/or your group are involved in ministry outside the walls of Bethany, we want to know about it. Please contact Peggy Levesque. |
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International Outreach |
 Short-Term International Outreach Teams
Team Peru Dates: August 8-17 Location: Flores de Villa, Lima, Peru This team will serve with our long-term partners in Peru, David and Gina Stavros. The Stavros' are ministering among the poor of Flores de Villa, a shanty town on the outskirts of Lima. Three facilities have been established in the community in response to the physical, social and spiritual needs: Casa Darling, a loving facility for homeless girls; Casa San Juan, a similar facility for homeless boys, and Semillitas Child Care Stimulation Center, where mothers can bring their infant children to develop motor skills. The team members, Penny & Rick Campa, and Cecilia & Keith Holbert will be helping with light construction needs on the various facilities. They will also have many opportunities to interact with the children and youth of Flores de Villa. Please pray for these team members and follow the team's progress online at www.peruvianpartners.org. |
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Student Life |
Operation Renovation
 On July 12, MSM went to UMOM Day Centers in Phoenix to care for the underprivileged! The center offers emergency housing for homeless and low-income families and transitional housing for families and single women. The play area for the kids was in poor condition with lots of trash and broken toys. We picked up lots of trash, did some yard work, scrubbed a bunch, and got the place lookin' nice! It was an awesome time! Thanks to all the middle schoolers who served like Jesus in the real world!!
D-Backs Game & Stellar Kart Concert
On July 18, MSM went to Chase Field to watch the Diamondbacks battle the Dodgers. It was Youth Faith Night, so afterwards there was a Stellar Kart concert! Stellar Kart is a popular Christian rock band. The middle schoolers and adults alike enjoyed rockin' out and praising God! Thanks to everyone who attended!
MSM Is Going To Sun Splash
MSM is headed to Sun Splash on Saturday, August 2. Meet at church at 6pm and we will return by 10:30pm. Come ready to get wet and wild on tons of awesome rides! For details, visit the Middle School page of the Bethany website. As always, bring a new friend and they get a huge discount on this end-of-summer fling. |
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Congratulations |
Baptized Sunday, July 27
 The following showed their testimony of faith by being baptized: Nicholas Johnston, Harrison Merritt, Steve Mishler, Rick Morrow, Bethany Ringwald, Haley Strauss, Zack Taylor, Bequa Wolff, Raylene Wolff and Kevin Wynne. If you are interested in being baptized or would like information on baptism please contact Mary Beth. | |
My first response was to connect him with the World Community class since they have a few great couples from the Indian culture that might be able to greet him. Long story short, they connected and found out that one of them comes from the same village in India as the newcomer's wife!
One of the many objectives on Sunday morning is to create a space for us to encounter God, to offer him our praise, and to seek to hear His voice. We realize that for those with sensitive hearing, this can often be difficult. In order to make our services as distraction-free as possible, we offer hearing assist units, as well as earplugs. If you have sensitive hearing, please visit the Information Center and feel free to check-out a hearing assist unit, or take a pair of earplugs. (The hearing assist units will need to be returned, but you can keep the earplugs!)
