August 22, 2019
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
You bought 70 pairs of shoes and 63 backpacks! Wow Restoration! You are generous! I am so proud and humbled to be a part of such an amazing group of people. Between the VBS fundraiser and Facebook fundraiser, we raised over $2100 and I was able to purchase quality athletic shoes and sturdy backpacks. Each year I purchase an equal amount of boy, girl, and gender neutral shoes (and backpacks) in a variety of sizes. Students at Westview Elementary and other elementary schools will surely be blessed this school season.
Restoration has been providing shoes and backpacks to Westview Elementary School for about five years now. Over the years, the number of shoes and backpacks we have given to Westview have dramatically increased. Patsy Ryan, the school social worker, does a phenomenal job of identifying students in need of shoes and backpacks and makes sure that those students receive what they need before school starts. In addition, when there are extra shoes and backpacks, Patsy connects with the social workers in other schools in the district to share the extra.
This year, Patsy told me that she had parents asking about shoes and backpacks last week already. It is such a joy to be able to be a consistent resource for the school. Our donations allow the school to be able to provide for physical needs of families thus creating a path toward building a trusting relationship between the school and families. Thank you for your generosity, church! We are doing good things in this community.
Blessings,
Michele
*THIS SUNDAY*
Outdoor Worship – August 25
We’ll have our annual outdoor worship service at Crystal Beach Park in Burnsville on Sunday, August 25 at 10am. We’ll worship together, celebrate believer baptisms at the lake and then spend time in community over a picnic lunch. This is a great opportunity to invite someone to church in a beautiful setting outside in God’s creation. Grilled meat, beverages, chips, condiments, and dinnerware will be provided. Last names A-L, please bring a SIDE or SALAD to share; M-Z please bring a DESSERT to share. We recommend bringing lawn chairs for your comfort. Bring some games to play too! Note there will not be Restoration Kids that Sunday so kids can enjoy worship with their families. In case of rain, check our Facebook page and our website early Sunday morning.
*NEW*
Immerse at Restoration
As a Covenant church, we have a long tradition of valuing deep engagement with the whole story of the Bible. The Immerse Reading Bible will help us to see ourselves in the story as we read it together. Beginning September 22 we will read through the first volume of Immerse, Messiah. For the next 8 weeks, Pastor Rob will preach about the week’s reading and small groups will discuss what they have read in a format similar to that of a book club. We hope to make reading one of the Immerse volumes a fall rhythm as a church over the next six year. Join us in finding your part in the story of God! Books will be available for purchase for $10 beginning September 8 at church or the church office. E-books can be purchased HERE. Free audio recording can be found HERE. To find out more or to join a small group, contact kararasmussen@restorationcov.org.
*NEW*
Meeting to Vote on Leadership Team Candidates – September 8
The Leadership Team unanimously agreed to present two new Leadership Team candidates, Don Braaten and Allison Erickson, to the members of Restoration. Please stay for a brief meeting immediately following worship on Sunday, September 8 to vote on these candidates. Questions? Please contact info@restorationcov.org.
Engagement Annoucement
We’re so excited to announce the engagement of Teresa Slepicka and Scott Rhone. They were engaged on July 15 and are planning a wedding for October 2020. We hope you’ll join us in congratulating Teresa and Scott!
Tobias “Toby” Mark Goerdt
We celebrate the birth of Tobias “Toby” Mark Goerdt, 7lbs 15oz, 22in long, born to Matthew & Amanda Goerdt on July 31, 2019! Toby is also welcomed home by big brother Benji. Please keep the Goerdt family in your prayers during this busy time and praise God for a healthy mom and baby. We welcome the Restoration family to support and bless them by providing meals. Please sign-up HERE.
Prayer Meeting – August 28
Join us as we lift up needs within our church and around the world and pray with faith that the Lord will help us in every area of our lives! We will meet from 7-9pm on Wednesday, August 28 at the Ministry Center. We would love to see you there! Contact MaryBeshara@restorationcov.org with questions.
Men’s BBQ – September 21
There’s nothing better than an afternoon of grilling out with the guys. Please join us for some delicious food on the grill and some stiff competition at yard games at the Men’s BBQ at Don Braaten’s house on Saturday, September 21 from 4-8pm. Main dish will be provided. Invite a friend and bring a side dish to share. See you there! RSVP to events@restorationcov.org
Women’s Retreat – September 28
As women we shoulder a lot, but we often forget to take time to be revitalized. You are invited to a day set aside just for you. We will gather in a beautiful lakeside home with peaceful outdoor spaces. There will be time to fellowship with other women, to be still and rest with God, and to be reminded of God’s great love for YOU. Join us as we explore together how we are each Uniquely Made, Deeply Loved. Bring a friend! Cost is $30, which includes lunch, dinner, coffee, tea, and light snacks. Scholarships are available. No childcare will be provided. Space is limited, so reserve your place today! Register HERE. Contact Erin at ekg451@yahoo.com.
Serve in Church
Please pray about and consider serving in one of the areas of critical need within our church. Whether you’re already serving or considering where you can best bless our church, thank you for sharing your much needed gifts! Look for a list of additional serving opportunities on our website at HERE and at the Info Table in the lobby on Sundays. Please feel free to contact the person in charge of the area in which you’re most gifted or interested.
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
At Restoration we value being in Christ-centered authentic community with others. Small Groups create a great space to do this and a wonderful to way to grow in loving God and others. To learn more or if you are interested in leading or joining a group, please contact kararasmussen@restorationcov.org.
SUNDAY
Second Stage Life Group
Every other Sunday, 6-8pm at the Klatts’ home
Discussing Immerse
Led by Dick & Patte Klatt
Families of Youth Lunch
2nd Sunday of the month, Noon-2pm
September 8 at the Stoks’ home in Apple Valley
Led by Kerry Stok
Women’s Small Group
Every other Sunday, 6-8pm at host homes beginning in September
Discussing Immerse
Led by Kara Rasmussen
Families Small Groups
Every other Sunday, details TBD
Discussing Immerse
MONDAY
Moms and Daughters Small Group
Mondays, 6:30-8pm at the Rasmussens’ home
Studying Treasured
Led by Kara Rasmussen and Chrystine Vilhauer
SATURDAY
Men’s Bible Study Group
Saturdays at 7am at the Ministry Center
Studying the Book of 2 John
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
*NEW*
Kick Off Sunday – September 8
The new season of Restoration Kids classes will kick off on September 8th. Parents please look for details from Chrystine in the next few weeks with new classroom location details.
*THIS SUNDAY*
Intergenerational Sunday
At Restoration, we believe that it’s important for children and students to learn spiritual concepts alongside their parents at home and in age-appropriate class settings such as Restoration Kids and Restoration Student groups. We intentionally look for ways to cultivate intergenerational relationships, encourage all ages to participate in various serving roles and structure the worship set and message in such a way so as to include something that speaks to all generations. This Sunday is designed to be an experience where all ages can be seen, heard and welcome to participate. Kids and students will remain in service today to worship alongside their families and church community.
RESTORATION STUDENTS
Contact: students@restorationcov.org
*NEW*
Restoration Students Wednesday Nights – Beginning September 11
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!
Middle School Group
Sept 8, 22 | Oct 13, 27 | Nov 10, 24 | Dec 9, not 23 | Jan 5, 19 | Feb 2, 16 | Mar 1, 15 | Apr 5, 19 | May 3, 17
Students in grades 6-8 begin Sunday mornings in the worship service. On the designated Sundays, they meet in the café for discussion and activities that complement the Sunday morning message. Contact students@restorationcov.org
High School Sunday Nights – August 25
“We use the word ‘love’ all the time. But do we really know what that means? Jesus laid down His life on the cross for us. Do you know what that means!? He gave up His life so we could know what real life, and what real love is all about. The best way we can show His love to others is by giving of ourselves for them. How are you ‘laying down your life’ for the people around you?” Students grades 9-12 will be meeting at the Svarens’ home to study and discuss the book Love Out Loud by Doug Fields. Join us Sunday evenings from 6:30-8pm. Contact students@restorationcov.org with questions.
Wild Mountain – August 28 | 8:30am-5:30pm
Students entering grades 6-12, join us for a day at Wild Mountain on Wednesday, August 28 from 8:30am-5:30pm. Enjoy some crazy fun at the waterpark, alpine slides and go-karts. Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and dry clothes. Arrive at the Ministry Center (7707 147th St W, Apple Valley) at 8:30am for departure via bus. We plan to return at 5:30pm. Cost is $40 for park ticket, transportation, and a supplied lunch; bring extra money if you want additional snacks while there. Invite your friends! Everyone must have a completed Students Participation & Liability form. Contact students@restorationcov.org for RSVP and questions. Please let us know ASAP if you are interested in coming!
Join the Students Team
Do you have a passion for working with students? Are you interested in serving Restoration through our Wednesday Night Student Groups? We would love to hear from you! The students team is looking for adult men and women who would like to get involved in being a part of our team. We welcome anyone who loves God and loves the idea of working with students. Contact students@restorationcov.org
View past News & Notes by clicking HERE.