May 9, 2018
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:15 ESV
This past Sunday was my first opportunity to participate in serving Westview Elementary. What a tremendous community builder this is for Restoration. It is great that we can partner with and build a relationship within our neighborhood and support the kids and teachers at Westview. Hearing from Patsy Ryan, the school social worker, and Tami Staloch-Schultz, the school principal, was very enlightening. They were so appreciative and expressed their desire to deepen the connection with Restoration. Patsy talked about how no other school she works with has this kind of support from a church. Tami expressed the feeling that they receive so much from Restoration with nothing in return. It is a blessing for us to be able to share our time and help the school.
I also appreciated that the tasks were done in community within Restoration. We were working alongside each other. Work always feels less like work when you are among people you care about.
For anyone who missed this opportunity, I encourage you to give it a try next time. It was very rewarding and I know it means a lot to those that work and learn at that school – both in the actual results and the feeling they get knowing they are supported.
In Hope,
Lacey
Restoration Online Directory
We're very excited to announce the launch of our Restoration Directory! The directory was created as way to help you feel more connected faster. With the directory, you'll have a tool to help you feel more confident in learning and remembering others' faces and names. It allows you to connect outside of Sundays by providing contact information and perhaps a way to call, text or send notes of encouragement, thanks, congratulations or other greetings throughout the year. Simply put, the directory enables us to access contact information for one another. You can only access the directory if you are in it. For instructions on how to get started, go here.
Pulse Twin Cities – May 18
The Church of the Twin Cities is coming to U.S. Bank Stadium for an event that will reach thousands with the message of Jesus. Every seat is a person's life, and we want to see 66,200 people changed as they discover God's heart. On Friday night, May 18, students grades 6-12 are invited to join us as we head to the cities for this special event. Students are encouraged to grab a "Keep 5" card in advance, to pray for five individuals and to look for ways to share Jesus with them. If you are an adult willing to help lead and drive this night or to RSVP, contact DerekWassell@restorationcov.org.
*NEW*
Celebrating Graduates – June 3
On Sunday, June 3, we will recognize Restoration's graduating high school, college and graduate school students with a prayer of blessing during service followed by a cake reception after the worship service. If you are a graduate from any time in the past year, please contact Derek in the church office by Thursday, May 31 so we can be sure to include you. Your Restoration family is proud of you and wants to acknowledge your hard work! Contact DerekWassell@restorationcov.org
VBS AMPED – June 25-29
We are AMPED for VBS this summer where we will have an EXTREME, action-packed week full of songs, games, crafts and learning what it means to LIVE FULLY ALIVE with Jesus! Mark your calendars and invite your friends to join us June 25-29 from 9-11:30am at Apple Valley Baptist, 964 Garden View Drive, Apple Valley. Sign up now at www.restorationcov.org/VBS.
Small Groups
Are you looking for a way to get to know others and grow in your faith? Restoration Small Groups help us grow in our love for God and others within an authentic community of people. Though each group's format is different, all groups have a time of discussion and prayer. If you're interested in joining one of the small groups here or if you'd like to join a group but none of these work for you, please contact Kara at groups@restorationcov.org to learn more.
Pray or Receive Prayer
Are you gifted at prayer or do you have a prayer request that you’d like to share with our prayer team? We believe in the power of prayer and know that God is listening. We would love to pray for you. If you’re interested in joining the prayer team or have any prayer requests, send them to our prayer team at prayer@restorationcov.org
RESTORATION KIDS
Contact: ChrystineVilhauer@restorationcov.org
What We're Learning in May
Preschool:
We see other works of art every day that have a Maker and a plan. We pass them on the street, at work, and every Sunday they play around our feet. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Yes, people! People are God’s works of art. He is our maker. And, He has a plan for each of us. Every neighbor. Every preschooler. Every parent. God has a plan for all of us, because He made us and loves us. We want to teach our preschoolers this month that God has a plan for them. Imagine how much better the lives of our preschoolers and, well, all of us could be if we lived like God has a plan for us, and that God’s plan is always best. We would be the complete Works of Art that God created us to be.
Memory Verse: “The plans of the Lord stand firm forever.” Psalm 33:11, NIV
Elementary:
This month in the elementary classes, we will be talking about the connection between honesty and God’s character, as shown through God’s big story. God wants what is best for us. He has called us His children, and given us great things. Because we know that God is good, WE CAN BE HONEST. Lying and cheating are a response to fear. They are what people do if they think no one else will take care of them. But when you trust in God, when you know His love, you have a different response. You can be truthful.
Memory Verse: “Anyone who lives without blame walks safely. But anyone who takes a crooked path will get caught.” Proverbs 10:9, NIrV
RESTORATION STUDENTS
Contact: DerekWassell@restorationcov.org
Restoration Students Facebook Page
Did you know we have a Restoration Students Facebook page? Check it out and "Like" the page!
Sharing the News
Information from organizations and institutions in and around our community are offered as resources and not necessarily with the full endorsement of Restoration Covenant Church.
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World Vision – Global 6k for Water
On Saturday, May 19th, John Beshara will be running the Global 6k for Water at Crystal Lake Beach in Burnsville. Restoration, along with several churches in the area will be represented at this run to raise money for this great cause. If you're interested in running with John or donating to World Vision for this cause, please contact jbeshara53@gmail.com or visit here.
Apple Valley Seniors Showcase
The public is invited to the Apple Valley Seniors Showcase on Thursday, May 17th, 2018 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information click here.
View past News & Notes by clicking HERE.