August 29, 2019
Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.
Proverbs 22:6
It is our goal in Kids Ministry to provide a Sunday morning small group experience for kids where they can not only learn about God with age-appropriate content but build relationships with leaders that care for them and are examples of an authentic faith. We believe these relationships are key to helping kids build a lifelong faith.
As Kids Ministry has continued to grow, our classes have become bigger and this relational method of leading Sunday morning small groups has become more difficult. This fall, we are hoping to divide some classes to help provide class sizes that help leaders get to know their kids on a personal level and encourage those relationships.
Here are the primary changes coming this fall that parents will need to be aware of:
- The Infant and Toddler area will be moving back to Glacier. The number of infants has gone down in the past year and we will be able to safely accommodate all of our infants and toddlers in this room once again. We will still be able to section off the room for young infants.
- Kindergarten and First Graders will remain together and will meet in the far section of Yellowstone (where infants and toddlers are currently).
- Second and Third Graders will be separated into two classes. Each of these classes will meet in the far section of Yellowstone (where infants and toddlers are currently).
- Fourth and Fifth Graders will remain together for parts of their class time and will separate into smaller groups based on gender when possible. These groups will meet in the auditorium (with a second group in the lobby area when broken into two groups). They will continue to be dismissed after class without parents needing to come check them out.
Here is what stays the same:
- You will still need to check kids in at the table first thing on Sunday morning. Place the name tag sticker on your child and keep the other sticker for when you pick up your child after service.
- Kids will continue to worship with parents and then be dismissed to kids’ large group time from there. After large group, they will split into their small groups.
- Preschool kids will remain in the same class space they are currently located in (Yellowstone, by the current infant/toddler area). They are dismissed straight to this class after worship.
We’re excited for a new year with your kids and all the opportunities to see God at work in their lives. Thanks for partnering with us to encourage their spiritual growth through Restoration Kids.
If you feel called to work with our kids, we’re specifically looking for teachers for elementary grades. This is a great chance to to better connect with our kids, families, and the church at large.
Blessings,
Chrystine
*THIS SUNDAY*
Communion Sunday
This Sunday we’ll be celebrating communion as part of the worship service. Communion is a sacred practice in the Christian church instituted by Jesus Christ. The bread and cup represent and remind us of Jesus’ body and blood freely being offered to restore us with God. Please note that we always use juice instead of wine and have gluten-free bread available so that all members of our community can participate in communion. If you have questions about kids and communion, please contact ChrystineVilhauer@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.
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 years. Join us in finding your part in the story of God! Books will be available this Sunday, September 1 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.
Meeting – 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.
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. Registration deadline is Monday, September 16.
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
SATURDAY
Men’s Bible Study Group
Saturdays at 7am at the Ministry Center
Studying Immerse
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
Kick Off Sunday – September 8
The new season of Restoration Kids classes will kick off on September 8th.
*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. Busy bags will be available for younger kids. Nursery will be available for infants and toddlers.
RESTORATION STUDENTS
Contact: students@restorationcov.org
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
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.