November 29, 2018
Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.
Psalm 95:1-2 NIV
Did you know that smells, sights and sounds are the most powerful memory triggers? Maybe that’s why the Christmas season holds such powerful memories. I can still smell my Grandmother’s scrumptious Christmas treats when I catch a waft of cinnamon this time of year. I can still hear the reverberations of the bell choir of my hometown church playing Angels We Have Heard on High when I hear certain chimes close to Christmas. And when I see our little lambs and calves for the Restoration Kids Christmas program, I can still picture the brown felt sewn hood, long ears and stage makeup that I “got” to wear one year for a Christmas program. These memories do more than put a smile on my face, they rush me right back to that sacred space where I first wondered and learned about the presence of God in the world and in my life. What brings you back to when you first heard, truly heard, the Christmas message? What if it’s possible to experience that again, not only for ourselves or for our children, but for those who have never really heard? I believe it is possible…with music.
Music has always been a part of the Christmas story. Throughout the centuries, musicians, songwriters and storytellers have used music to tell the greatest story of all time: God with us. In fact, music might be the best response to the mystery of Christmas. Music expresses what mere words cannot. Music helps us share in the hopeful, joyful, excitement of waiting for Christmas: the waiting a parent does for their college student to arrive home at Thanksgiving or the waiting a young child does seeing the presents slowly pile up under a tree. But Christmas music also expresses a truer, deeper meaning of this season: the waiting for God to come to us. The waiting that goes back to the time of religious, political and geographical oppression for the people of God. This kind of waiting is expressed when God’s people cry out in the Psalms, “How long, O Lord?” and, “When will you send us a Savior?” That is a kind of waiting we don't love to talk about but know all too well: waiting for the prejudice, injustice and oppression in the world to be made right, waiting for a prayer to be answered for a loved one in pain, or even waiting for someone to call to take that feeling of loneliness away. Music is necessary in that kind of waiting because sometimes there are no words to contain the mix of emotions we feel.
Many of the people around us spend more time thinking or wondering about Jesus Christ during this season than any other time of the year. More people attend church during Christmas than any other time of the year. We also tend to find ourselves singing or listening to songs about Jesus during the Christmas season more than any other time of year. The late pastor, scholar and storyteller, Eugene Peterson, said, “When we submit our lives to the stories we read in Scripture, we find that we are not being led to see God in our stories but our stories in God’s.”
Join us in fully experiencing the Advent and Christmas season through the music of some beloved Christmas Carols and allow God’s Son to be revealed to you, just as he was revealed to all of humanity over 2,000 years ago on that holy night in the little town of Bethlehem. There will even be a chance for you to join us in some old-fashioned caroling in December. It’s a perfect time to invite someone you have been praying for and reaching out to, to give them the opportunity to truly hear the Christmas message.
Blessings,
Rob
Restoration Praises and Prayers
We're excited to let you know that we've created a new section on our weekly News & Notes newsletter email called Restoration Praises and Prayers. In this new section, we'll include big announcements and happenings within our community. You'll be able to find milestones from the rest of our Restoration community to help keep you better connected. So, we'd love to highlight times like engagements, new babies, retirement announcements as well as if someone in the Restoration family is hospitalized or if an immediate family member has passed away. Please keep us updated on anything you'd like to include by emailing info@restorationcov.org. Likewise, if you're ever interested in writing an article for our News & Notes weekly email newsletter, contact the same address above – we're always looking for writers!
*NEW*
New Prayer Team Leader
As of December 1, Mary Beshara will take over as the leader of the Prayer Ministry team, taking on the role that Leanne Esch has faithfully held here at Restoration. Mary has a proven passion for prayer- both in engaging in prayer for others, and in helping others grow in their experience of prayer. We hope you'll join us in welcoming Mary into this new role and thanking Leanne for her loving leadership on the prayer team.
*NEW*
Christmas Eve Service – December 24, 3:30pm
We will gather for a special time of worship at 3:30pm on Monday, December 24, at our usual worship location, 14601 Hayes Road in Apple Valley. Child care will be provided for younger children, birth through preschool, and busy bags will be available at the worship services for children in grades K-5. Please visit the information table in the lobby on Sunday for invitations you can share with someone you know.
*NEW*
Christian Reading Recommendations
Based on an excellent recommendation from one of our members and because we’re always looking for ways to encourage spiritual growth and learning, the staff and leaders of Restoration have helped to compile a list of Christian book recommendations. THIS LIST can be used as a reference for personal use, small group reading selections or if you’re looking for a book for a friend or family member this Christmas. Printed lists can be found at the information table. If you have any questions or have any suggested books for either adults or children to add to the list, please contact Kerry at kerrystok@restorationcov.org.
*THIS SATURDAY*
Armful of Love Wrapping Party
Armful of Love gifts may be brought unwrapped and labeled with the ornament to the Ministry Center before 10am this Saturday. Please know that you're more than welcome to attend the wrapping party even if you didn't buy a gift! This year we have a few more ways you can help us assemble advent gifts. We'd love to have you invite a friend and join us Saturday as we wrap gifts, make cards and prepare advent handouts at the Ministry Center from 10:00am-noon. Contact Michele Jacobson at outreach@restorationcov.org.
*THIS SATURDAY*
Prayer on the First
Please join us in dedicated prayer from 7:00-7:15pm. Call (712) 832-8330 and you’ll be prompted to put in an access code 475-2417#. You’ll be prompted to state your name but don’t. Instead hit # to enter the call. The ministry of the month and prayer needs will be explained. Opportunities to pray corporately will be identified during the call. The conference call is specifically designed to highlight the ministries of Restoration and needs specific to that particular ministry. Contact: prayer@restorationcov.org
*THIS SUNDAY*
Food on the First
At the start of the month, we donate food for Westview Elementary School staff to distribute from a “food locker” to hungry families. To help, head to the store for healthful, non-perishable food and bring it to church. Gift cards in any amount to Cub, Wal-Mart or Target will also be greatly appreciated since they help families purchase meat and fresh produce. Cash, check and designated online donations go to The Sheridan Story program that puts a weekend meal in participating students’ backpacks every Friday of the school year.
Advent Message Series – Christmas Carols
Familiar sights, sounds and traditions fill this wonderful time of year. Throughout the centuries, musicians, songwriters and storytellers have used music to tell the greatest story of all time: God with us. Join us in fully experiencing these Christmas Carols during Advent, and allow God’s Son to be revealed to you, just as he was revealed to all of humanity over 2,000 years ago on that holy night in the little town of Bethlehem. Join us at Hayes Senior Center Sundays at 10am in December for our Christmas Carols message series.
Amazon Smile
Are you planning on shopping at Amazon? Did you know that when you shop and buy at Amazon.com, if you go through AmazonSmile you can support Restoration? To shop at AmazonSmile simply go to smile.amazon.com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. You may also want to add a bookmark to smile.amazon.com to make it even easier to return and start your shopping at AmazonSmile. To sign up, go to the following link Amazon Smile and choose Restoration Covenant Church as your organization to support. Thanks in advance for choosing to support Restoration!
Women’s Christmas Gathering – December 9th
The Sunday Night Women's Small Group would like to invite all Restoration ladies and a guest to a Sip and Social Christmas party! Join us Sunday, December 9th from 6:30-8:30pm at Kara Rasmussen's house: 161 Spruce drive Apple Valley MN 55124. Consider this opportunity to invite a friend to this informal evening of food, song and holiday festivities. RSVP or contact kararasmussen@restorationcov.org with any questions.
No Worship Service on Sunday, December 30
The holidays are a great time to express our appreciation to all of our volunteers who invest in Restoration’s mission on a weekly basis. Thank you to our amazing team leads and loyal volunteers. We are so thankful for you and all the work you do! We hope you'll enjoy sleeping in on Sunday, December 30, because we will not be gathering for a worship service that day. However, we do hope you'll join us that day for…
…Sunday Fun Day!
Restoration is going to have a whole lot of fun on Sunday, December 30. We'll meet at the Ministry Center at 10am until 1pm. Staff will provide brunch from 10-11:30am. Stick around for games and conversation. There will also be some great games set up in the large room, but you are welcome to bring your own game as well. This is an "all church" event which means everyone is welcome. No RSVP required. Festive or tacky Christmas attire is encouraged. Contact LaceySkoglund@restorationcov.org in the church office with questions.
Caroling – December 19
Because our Christmas message series focuses on Christmas Carols, the staff thought it'd be an awesome idea to bless others this holiday season through the gift of song. Even if your singing doesn't feel like a gift, your presence is and we hope you'll join us at the Ministry Center on Wednesday, December 19 at 6:30pm to carol with us. This will take place during our regularly scheduled Restoration Students but ALL ages and musical abilities are welcomed and encouraged to carol. Please RSVP to info@restorationcov.org to let us know you're coming so we know how many groups we'll have.
Join the Setup Team
Are you a behind-the-scenes type of person ready to serve alongside other men and women at Restoration? Do you know someone who could serve in this capacity? If you're willing to move chairs, do light lifting, and set up the stage and worship area once a month on Sunday mornings, then you'd be a valuable asset on the set up team. At Restoration, the set up team creates the environment where people can encounter God. Michael Van Dyken, the team leader, is looking for volunteers to to serve. To learn more, contact him through setup@restorationcov.org.
Small Groups
Restoration Small Groups exist to help people be known and grow in their relationships with God, the church, and with others far from Christ. We believe that people need different things to grow at different points in their life. Because of that, we offer three types of Restoration Small Groups. Below are some of our available fall Small Groups. For questions or to join a Small Group, please contact kararasmussen@restorationcov.org.
SUNDAY
Women's Life Group
Every other Sunday, 6:30-8:30pm in various homes
Studying the current sermon series
Led by Kara Rasmussen
Family Life Group (children welcome)
Every other Sunday, 5:30-7:30pm in various homes
Studying the current sermon series
Led by Matt & Mallory Allinder
Second Stage Life Group
Every other Sunday, 6:00-8:00pm at the Klatts' home
Studying the current sermon series
Led by Dick & Patte Klatt
Families of Youth Life Group (potluck lunch)
2nd Sunday of the month, Noon-2:00pm in various homes
Fellowship with some discussion and prayer
Led by Janice Svaren
TUESDAY
Women's Life Group (children welcome)
Every other Tuesday 10am at the Days' home
Studying the current sermon series
Led by Amy Day
WEDNESDAY
All Ages Life Group (children welcome)
Every other Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm at the Zaffkes' home
Studying the current sermon series
Led by Garrett & Amy Zaffke
THURSDAY
All Ages Disciple Group
1st and 3rd Thursdays at 7pm at the Barriusos' home
Led by Janae Barriuso
SATURDAY
Men's Bible Study Group
Saturdays at 7am at the Ministry Center
Studying the Book of Mark
Led by Chad White
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
Kid’s Christmas Program – December 16th Invite your friends and family to join us at 10am on December 16 as the kids usher us into a morning of worship that will help inspire your Christmas season. Pastor Rob shares the stage with the children of Restoration Kids as they retell the Christmas story and remind us that Christ's presence is the real gift of the season. Parents please have your kids to church at 9am on Sunday, December 16. Contact: ChrystineVilhauer@restorationcov.org
Calling All Kids
Do you have friends who would like to have their kids involved in church but have yet to check us out? We have a great way to reach your unchurched family and friends who are looking for fun ways to get their kids to church. Invite them to participate in our Children's Program on Sunday, December 16. The kids will start practicing for the program during our regular worship time starting November 11. Parents hear a great message and kids learn more about the Christmas story. We're always looking for adult volunteers to help with our program so if you're willing to share your gifts, please contact ChrystineVilhauer@restorationcov.org.
RESTORATION STUDENTS
Contact: students@restorationcov.org
Lock & Key Escape Room
Students in grades 6-12, join us and invite your friends for a Lock & Key Escape Room experience on Saturday, December 8. Come ready for a challenge and mystery that will only be solved by working together. Meet at 10:00am at Restoration's Ministry Center: 7707 147th St W, Apple Valley. Cost is $20/student, and each student needs a participation & liability form on file. Bring $5 for lunch. You can get picked up at the Ministry Center at 1:45pm. Sign up early-we are limited to 20 students. RSVP by Sunday, December 2 with cash or check. Email students@restorationcov.org with questions.
Restoration Students Wednesday Nights
Upcoming Dates: Dec 5, 12, 19, Jan 9, 16, 23, 30
Students in grades 6-12 are encouraged to join us at the Ministry Center (7707 147th St W, Apple Valley) from 6:30-8pm on Wednesday nights for a time of teaching, activities, and groups that focus on encountering Jesus, building meaningful relationships, and restoring hope to the world. If you have a Bible, bring it. Invite a friend! Contact students@restorationcov.org
Middle School Group
Upcoming Dates: Jan 6, 20
Students in grades 6-8 begin Sunday mornings in the worship service. On the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month, they are sent to the café for discussion and activities that complement the Sunday morning message.
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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Ukraine Mission Trip
Jacob Sturges is preparing for a 10-day mission trip to the Ukraine where he will visit and serve local orphans at a state run orphanage that currently serves about 120 children. If you're interested in learning more about his trip or supporting Jacob through your prayers or finances click HERE or contact him at Jacob.Lee.Sturges@gmail.com.
Operation Christmas Child Seeking Seasonal Help
In order for Samaritan's Purse to be successful and reach as many children as possible, they need Team Coaches, Greeters, Floor Coordinators, and Dock Workers to assist with the volunteers that come every day to help package shoeboxes for children all over the world. If you're interested in supporting this great mission and making a few dollars while doing so, please check out the attached pdf HERE.
View past News & Notes by clicking HERE.
