Pastoral Transition ...

Hello everyone,

When you come to the final chapter of a really good book, it is sometimes bittersweet.  You welcome a happy ending, of course, but hate to see it end.  Life experiences are not that dissimilar.  The final chapter leaves us feeling nostalgic, while we look forward to new opportunities as well.

Ronoyce and I have been feeling this way since last summer.  We felt a growing awareness that God was making a change in our lives, and was asking us to get the church ready for pastoral transition.  It was clear that God is ready to bring new leadership, new vision, and new opportunities to SFC.  We believe God revealed to us what our final accomplishments would be, and they have come to pass.  With the same certainty by which we knew God called us to SFC, we are also certain He is leading us in a new direction.

I have spoken with our pastoral staff yesterday and the church board last night, announcing our retirement.  Our last Sunday at SFC will be June 30.  This is not a resignation so we can assume leadership at another church.  Although we will not lead another local church, we plan to continue ministry in new and creative ways as God leads and provides.

Just as we have gladly given heart and soul to faithfully serve such a wonderful church family for nearly 19 years, we hope you will be happy for us and help us celebrate this new phase of our lives.  Let's become prayer partners together through this time of transition and new opportunity, both for the church and us.

This Sunday I will share more details of our story.  Also, I have prepared a special message to help all of us embrace God's abundant blessings and peace.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Pastor Grate

Fabulous Friday!

Hello everyone!

Spring Reflections.  After the much-needed rain this week, this partially sunny day is also welcomed!  Warming temps seem to warm our heart and spirit as we long for the "new life" that Spring brings ... greening grass, budding flowers, and trees that awaken from a long winter's sleep!  

These are visible reminders of the "new life" we have in Christ!  The ugly remnants of the past are transformed into the colorful beauty of grace.  Our spirit is renewed into the image of God, resurrected from our death in sin, making us alive in Christ, adopted into His heavenly family, and empowered to live a new kind of life!  Truly, it is a fabulous Friday!

More Good News.  This is a fabulous Friday for other reasons, too.  After a lengthy process, our new loan was funded this week, lowering our interest rate by 2.5%!  This is an answer to prayer and will help our future ministry.  Thank you for your faithful prayer support during these months of applications, appraisals, paperwork, audit reviews, etc!  

May Opportunities.  May always seems to be a busy month.  Mother's Day, Memorial Day, graduations and graduation parties!  Among the many things we will do this month, it is our privilege to host the Commencement Ceremonies for Nazarene Bible College on Sunday, May 26th, 3:00 p.m. in our Worship Center!  To assist their needs for this special day one time a year, we are combining our two morning English services into one service, beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Please make a note on your calendar to ensure you will be on time for our special service on that day!

Thank you again for being a prayer partner for the ministry of our church.  God notices.

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Gene

Looking Forward ...

Hi everyone,

Ronoyce and I have returned from a few days away with family and friends, and are looking forward to seeing all of you this Sunday!  Come early, prayed up, energized in the Spirit, and ready to engage in authentic worship!  I know God has already planned to meet with us!

Sermon Series.  After Easter we began a new series, addressing some of our "Deepest Needs."  This Sunday, I want to talk about our need to know real and lasting joy in our lives!  God doesn't want us to just endure life, but to enjoy the wonderful life He has provided for us!  If your emotional and spiritual gas tank is near empty, just hang on and come ready for a "fill up" this Sunday!  You won't be disappointed!

New Church Year.  Just when the school year is winding down, this Sunday begins our new church/fiscal year!  In addition, we will be hosting our Colorado Nazarene Family in a few weeks at our Annual District Conference; and then watch what God is going to do at the Quadrennial General Assembly for the Global Church of the Nazarene in later June in Indianapolis!  These are exciting days of opportunity and spiritual advancement!  Let's pray for these two major events that will help shape/guide our beloved church in the future!  

Again, I would love to see everyone this Sunday!  If you're in town, don't miss it!  Many blessings to you and yours this weekend!

Pastor Grate

Memorial Service and More ...

Dear Church Family and Friends,

I trust your week has been blessed by the assurance that God is with you -- especially when things have not gone as planned.  He has promised to never leave nor forsake us. You can count on it!

Sermon Series.  Last Sunday, God graciously allowed us to sense His transcending presence in our time of worship and preaching.  We continue this week, looking at our deepest needs and God's unfailing grace to meet our needs.  Pray with me for another special time of worship this Sunday!

Fiscal Year End.  There are two Sundays remaining in our fiscal year.  Thank you, in advance, for your faithful support of our ministries through returning God's tithe to Him, and giving additional offerings as God supplies the resources.  These next two Sundays are a good time to catch up on your giving, should you be behind.  Again, thank you.

Memorial Service for Bill Sockriter will be tomorrow morning, Saturday, April 20th, 10:00 a.m. in our original sanctuary.  All are welcome to attend this time of remembrance about his life and reflection on God's abundant grace. 

Thought for the Day.  H.L. Hunt made millions of dollars as a Texas oil man.  He was an aggressive business man who had little regard for time.  His chief confidant said he was just as apt to call in the middle of the night as he was to call in the middle of the day.  One night Hunt called at 2 a.m. and said, "John, I just made the greatest trade of my life. I traded the here, for the hereafter."  That was the night H.L. Hunt became a Christian.

For those who know Christ, there is always heaven!

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Grate

Church Elections and More ...

Hello everyone!

With the weekend, will come warmer weather! Sunday will be a great day to gather for worship, fellowship, and discipleship!  Hope to see you this weekend!

Sermon Series.  As I communicated last week, God has laid a new sermon series on my heart, to renew our faith, restore our hope, and reestablish our commitment to be fully devoted, entirely consecrated, Spirit-filled disciples of Jesus!  Join me in praying for God-sized outcomes from this fresh look at the Spirit-filled life!

Church Elections.  The annual election of church officers, will be this Sunday morning, April 14th.  Members, 15 years of age and older, may vote before the first service, between services, and after the second service.  Look for the voting tables in the Worship Center foyer. 

New Life Class Begins this Sunday at 9:00 a.m. in McQueeen Chapel, for those who are searching for spiritual answers, and new believers in Christ!  Another benefit to the class is meeting others, developing new relationships, and increasing a sense of belonging at SFC!  Scott and Kelli Simons will host and teach this exciting new class!  Several have already signed up!  Sign up or just show up!  All are welcome. 

Parents of Teens Coffee House is scheduled again for this Sunday evening!  There is a growing sense of comaraderie among parents, and optimism for the family.  If you are a parent of teenagers, don't miss this inspiring time of growing and learning.

God-sized things are happening!  Don't miss it.  Get involved!

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Grate

Weekend Notes ...

Hello everyone,

With the weekend arriving, here is some information and a few updates for you.

Easter Reflections.  Our celebration of the Lord's resurrection was one of the best!  My spirit was blessed, my heart encouraged, and my faith strengthened!  Invite your family and friends to return this weekend for another inspiring worship gathering!

Sermon Series.  God has laid a new sermon series on my heart to renew our faith, restore our hope, and reestablish our commitment to be fully devoted, Spirit-filled, entirely consecrated disciples of Jesus!  Join me in praying for God-sized outcomes from this fresh look at the Spirit-filled life!

Church Elections.  The annual election of church officers will be Sunday morning, April 14th.  A sample ballot will be available at Information Central this Sunday for your review.

Church Refinance Results.  With a nearly 99% affirmative vote, our congregation voted in favor of refinancing our church, lowering our interest rate by 2.5 %.  Thanks for your participation in this vote!

First Quarter Contribution Statements Online.  As a heads-up, we are trying to streamline the way you can receive timely statements of financial contributions to our church's ministry.

Look for an email from our office which contains a "link" that will take you to our church information management system.  You may be asked to create a "login."  If so, use the email address at which you received the notice, and create your own password.

Once you have logged in, follow the instructions below to view and print your giving statement for the first quarter of 2013.

1. Click Giving Statement
2. Choose "This Year - 1st Qtr"
3. Select Deductible Only
4. Click Pledge box if you have committed to a pledge
5. Print the statement for your records.

If you have questions, please contact Susan Griffin, in our Finance Office.

Remember, the first time is always the most "awkward."  Please give it a try!  It is our hope to use our church "information system" for many more functions in the future, such as sign-up for church functions, receiving donations, providing churchwide information, camp registrations, ministry notifications, and dozens of more uses!

So, remember your password for future uses, including the second quarter's giving statement!

Well, that's about it for now! 

See you on Sunday!

Easter Weekend ...

Hello everyone,

I wanted to remind everyone of our Easter weekend services and activites.  Let us pray for God's blessing on each one!

Easter Weekend Schedule and Reminders.

Friday, March 29 - Good Friday Service with Jews for Jesus.  A Seder Supper demonstration & tasting.  7:00 p.m. in the Worship Center.  Remember, it is not an entire supper, but a "tasting."  Learn the meaning of Passover in new and fresh insights!

Saturday, March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt for kids and families.  10:00 a.m. outside.  We are preparing 3000 eggs for hundreds of kids!  Remember to bring your kids and your neighbor kids!

Sunday, March 31 - Full Easter Breakfast in the Gym, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.  The Hebrews Cafe will be open from 9:00-9:45 a.m. for coffee and donuts.  Remember, all food and coffee service will end by 9:45 a.m. to allow worshipers to be inside the sanctuary for the start of our Easter Service.

Sunday, March 31 - Easter Sunday Worship Celebration, Easter Choir and Sermon, and more!  Combined English Service in the Worship Center at 10:00 a.m.  Remember, we ask everyone to be inside the Worship Center before 10:00 a.m.  If you arrive later, please understand our doors will be closed for the first five minutes of our Easter Service for a dramatic presentation, and then re-open to admit latecomers.

Our Spanish Service will meet in the Stone Chapel at 11:00 a.m.  Pastor Carlos Sepulveda will preach an inspiring Gospel message for this Easter Sunday! 

There will be no Sunday School Classes on Easter Sunday morning.

Parking on Easter.  Because we expect many newcomers and guests on Easter Sunday, we ask all SFC regular attendees to use the west and south parking lots around the original sanctuary, leaving the parking spaces in front of our Worship Center for senior adults and guests!  Thanks in advance for your cooperation to make others feel welcomed to SFC!

Vote to Refinance our Church Loan.  We have been able to refinance our church loan, receiving a 10 year fixed rate arrangement, dropping the interest rate from 7% to 4.5% for the first five years, and 5.15 % for the second five years - saving hundreds of thousands of future interest dollars!  It requires a church vote. 

We invite all regular members and attendees to vote at Information Central, beginning at 9:30 - 10:00 a.m., and again following the morning service.  No signature will be required to vote. Simply check the box indicating you are a member, or the box indicating you are not a member.  Everyone is on the honor system in this way. 

Again, take time to reflect on the meaning of this special week as you remember the great sacrifice of Christ for our sins, and His victorious resurrection from the dead!

Join me for these meaningful services and celebrations!

Pastor Grate

Holy Week Schedule ...

Hello everyone,

I am looking forward to our worship services this weekend as we focus on the cross, and its meaning for our generation.  Palm Sunday is a significant Sunday in our church year.  Please pray with me for a fresh vision and revelation from our Heavenly Father as we enter Holy Week.

Holy Week Services and Events. 

Sunday, March 24 - Palm Sunday.  Our focus will be the cross and a message of salvation. Regular Service times.

Friday, March 29 - Good Friday Service with Jews for Jesus.  A Seder Supper demonstration & tasting.  7:00 p.m. in the Worship Center.

Saturday, March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt for kids and families.  10:00 a.m. outside, weather permitting.  Inside if inclement weather.

Sunday, March 31 - Full Easter Breakfast in the Gym, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.  The Hebrews Cafe will be open from 9:00-9:45 am. for coffee and donuts.

Sunday, March 31 - Easter Sunday Worship Celebration, Easter Choir and Sermon, and more!  Combined English Service in the Worship Center at 10:00 a.m.  Spanish Service in the Stone Chapel at 10:45 a.m.  No Sunday School Classes on Easter Sunday morning.

Plan to participate in our Holy Week services and activities, and bring friends!

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Grate

Weekend Notes ...

Good Friday Afternoon!

With Sunday almost here, I have included some information you may want to know.

The Bible Mini-Series.  This Sunday night, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm and again from 10:00 to 12:00 p.m, the History Channel is airing the first episode of The Bible, a dynamic presentation of the major stories of God's work in our world.  The History Channel is also airing each episode on Wednesday evenings, from 7:00 - 9:00 pm.  The Lifetime Channel has picked this up and is airing each episode on Monday evenings, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.  This is a great opportunity to invite friends and neighbors to watch this epic series and ask questions about our faith!  Enjoy!

Korean Egg Rolls.  Our Korean ladies are preparing hundreds and hundreds of egg rolls for sale this Sunday!  Proceeds will go toward a church project!  If you would like to help them, please come to the East Entrance of the church between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.  A Korean lunch will be provided for those who help.  Plan to buy your egg rolls this Sunday morning!

Easter Preview.  Complete information will be provided in written form next Sunday, but here is a preview of our Easter Week events and services!

March 24 - Palm Sunday

March 29 - Good Friday Service with Jews for Jesus.  A Seder Supper demonstration & tasting

March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt for kids and families

March 31 - Easter Sunday Worship Celebration, Easter Choir and Sermon, and more!

Look for more info next week!  Mark your calendars!  Invite friends!

Love you all,

Pastor Grate

Weekend Reminders and More ...

Hello Church,

Ronoyce and I had our "lunch date" today and watched the snow softly falling across our fair city, and remembered again how much we love our city and our church families!  I trust you will have special time with your loved ones this weekend.

God is Moving!  The presence of Almighty God has been close in our worship times together!  I have been inspired by the music in both services, challenged by the scriptural messages, and touched by the fellowship of other believers!  People are responding to a call to pray at our altars.  Some are renewing their faith in Christ; others have experienced the cleansing power of God's sanctifying Spirit.  Blessed be the Name of the Lord!  I expect more of the same this Sunday!  I hope to see you there!

Membership Sunday.  We will welcome new members into our church family this weekend.  Please stop by the Heritage and Hospitality Center after our services to meet them, share a refreshment time, and encourage them with your friendship!  Let's go all out to make our new members know how special it is to have them as part of our church family!

Financial Update.  Sunday will determine whether we achieve our budget goal for February.  With weather concerns that may affect attendance (and thus, giving), please do your best to participate by bringing your tithes and offerings to the church this Sunday, or if the weather prevents your attendance, perhaps early next week before we close the financial books for the month.  Thanks in advance for your help.

Bible App.  FYI, the YouVersion Bible app for smartphones and notebooks will soon include video features related to the new mini-series on The Bible, airing on the History Channel each Sunday night of March.  Please check the info in our church bulletin this Sunday.

Upcoming Dates.  Please mark these dates on your calendar.

March 10 - Daylight Savings Time Change

March 24 - Palm Sunday

March 31 - Easter Sunday

Please pray with me for our services this Sunday!  I can't wait to see what God is up to this week!

Love you all!

Pastor Grate

New Hispanic Service!!!

Hello Church!

I am still inspired by the baptism service and testimonies we experienced last Sunday morning.  It was such confirmation that God is at work, reconciling the world to Himself!  Let me share with you some things you may want to know as Sunday comes closer.

Many Lights of Christmas Work Day is scheduled for tomorrow, January 19, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Much of the work will be taking down the steel structures and putting them away in the storage units behind our church.  Many hands make light work.  If you are available, I hope we will see you tomorrow morning for this ministry opportunity!

Midweek Bible Studies.  Our new Bible studies for men and women began last Wednesday, January 16, 7:00 - 8:15 p.m.  The men are doing a verse-by-verse study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians in the LAC - Room 409.  The women are studying the Psalms of Faith, and meet in the LAC large assembly area.  If you want to know more people and hunger for meaningful relationships and inspiring times in God's Word, jump in and join us on Wednesday nights!  We also offer a Wednesday evening meal in the Hebrews Cafe from 5:30 - 6:45 p.m. each Wednesday evening.  Come early and let's eat together!

Financial Peace University.  We are offering two new FPU classes.  The first begins on Sunday, January 20, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. in the LAC - Room 409.  The second begins on Wednesday, January 23, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. in McQueen Chapel.  You can register at the FPU ministry counter in the church foyer this Sunday!  Join the scores of SFC families who have experienced new financial freedom by applying these principles to their lives!  Classes are nine weeks long.

Midweek Spanish Service.  We started a new Hispanic service last Wednesday night, with a dozen attending!  It was an inspiring beginning to this new opportunity for worship and fellowship.  It will meet at 7:00 p.m., in Room 204, this week!  Get the word out about this exciting new service!

Local and District Ministerial Licenses.  Interviews for those wanting to receive either a local or district ministerial license will be Saturday, February 2, beginning at 8:00 a.m.  Previous licensees may look for their applications via email.  Should it not arrive in your inbox, please pick up your application at Information Central, or call the church office.  New candidates should pick up applications at Information Central in the church foyer, this Sunday.  Please give prompt attention to this matter, sooner rather than later.  The church board must approve all applicants just days after the interviews.  Failure to interview on time will mean a one-year waiting period until 2014.

Charitable Giving Statements.  A friendly reminder to pick up your charitable giving statement for 2012 at Information Central this Sunday.  Thanks for suppporting our ministry at SFC!

Love you all and see you on Sunday!

Off to a Great 2013!

Hello everyone!

God gave us great services last Sunday as we heard of His miraculous work in a Creative Access country.  We are grateful to be partners with our great God, helping to bring a little bit of heaven to earth!

Many Lights of Christmas Work Day has been cancelled for tomorrow, January 12, due to the severely cold weather coming our way.  It has been rescheduled for the following Saturday, January 19, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Much of the work will be taking down the steel structures and putting them away in the storage units behind our church.  We welcome all the help we can get to do this more strenuous work!  Hope to see a number of you next Saturday!

New Sermon Series.  God willing, I will preach the first message in our new Winter sermon series, discovering how God can take a nobody and turn them into a somebody!  Don't miss a single week of this new and exciting series!

Midweek Bible Studies.  Our new Bible studies for men and women will begin on Wednesday, January 16, 7:00 - 8:15 p.m.  The men will be doing a verse-by-verse study of First and Second Thessalonians in the LAC - Room 409.  The women will be studying the Psalms of Faith, using the Joy of LIving curriculum in the LAC large assembly area.  Why not begin 2013 in a group study of God's Word?  You can sign up on Sunday at the table in the back of the sanctuary! 

Hebrews Cafe Reopens.  Our Wednesday night meals will begin again on January 16, to support our adult Wednesday night Bible studies, youth and children's activities.  Make this a regular part of your midweek practice, to fellowship together around a meal, and attend a Bible study class or church activity!  Hope we pack it out next Wednesday night!

Financial Peace University.  We are offering two new FPU classes.  The first begins on Sunday, January 20, 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. in the LAC - Room 409.  The second begins on Wednesday, January 23, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. in McQueen Chapel.  You can register at the FPU ministry counter in the church foyer this Sunday!  Join the scores of SFC families who have experienced new financial freedom by applying these principles to their lives!  Classes are nine weeks long.

Local and District Ministerial Licenses.  Interviews for those wanting to receive either a local or district ministerial license will be Saturday, February 2, beginning at 8:00 a.m.  Previous licensees may look for their applications via email.  Should it not arrive in your inbox, please pick up your application at Information Central, or call the church office.  New candidates should pick up applications at Information Central in the church foyer, beginning this Sunday.  Please give prompt attention to this matter, sooner rather than later.  The church board must approve all applicants just days after the interviews.  Failure to interview on time will mean a one-year waiting period until 2014.

It's going to be a wonderful Sunday!  Hope to see you at church!

Christmas Sunday Schedule ...

Hello everyone,

As we approach the weekend, here are a few reminders ...

Christmas Services on Sunday, December 23rd.  As we have announced for several weeks, we are having one combined English-speaking Christmas service this Sunday, beginning at 10:45 a.m. in our sanctuary.  We are also having our regular Spanish-speaking worship service in The Cave at 10:45.  No Sunday School classes will meet this week.  So, here is a brief summary of what Sunday morning will look like.

9:00   a.m. - The Hebrews Cafe will open for breakfast, serving a breakfast casserole with home fries,      or donuts and coffee.  

10:45 a.m. - English-Speaking Christmas Worship Service in the sanctuary.

10:45 a.m. - Spanish-Speaking Christmas Worship Service in the Cave.

Again, no Sunday School this week.

Christmas Eve Communion Service.  Our traditional Christmas Eve Communion Service will be on Monday evening, December 24th, 5:30 p.m., in our sanctuary.  This one hour service will inspire us to a greater appreciation of the birth of Christ, God's greatest gift to us!  Please bring family and friends with you for this special service.

December Giving. As a reminder, an information brochure is available in the sanctuary chair pockets describing how to make "year-end" financial gifts. With new tax laws coming in 2013, you may want to consult your tax preparer about your 2012 charitable gifts.  Remember, any such gifts must be postmarked or received in our office, by December 31, to count toward your 2012 giving.

Read the Bible Through in 2013. Our one and two-year Bible reading plans are available in the brochure rack in the Worship Center foyer. Plan to read God's Word systematically in 2013 or in 2013-14! You will be blessed!

I look forward to worshiping with you on Christmas Sunday!  See you then!

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas ...

Hello church,

With light snow in the forecast for today (no accumulation expected for the front range), it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!  When we turn on our more than a half million lights for our drive-through tonight, it will "light up" our world.

To review our volunteer schedule ...

Many Lights Evening Schedule.  When you come for your appointed volunteer time, here is what you can expect and how you can help.

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.  Dinner in the Cafe

5:15 - 5:20 p.m.  Prayer and Instructions in the Cafe

5:20 - 5:30 p.m.  Dress in Costume in the gymnasium and stage in the Cave

5:45 - 5:50 p.m.  Go to your assigned positions

6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  Participate in the MLOC

9:00 - 9:15 p.m.  Clean up and Close

The meals include beef minestrone soup tonight, chicken pot pie on Saturday night, chili and cornbread on Sunday night, and chicken broccoli afredo on Monday night!  Come early with the joy of Christ and a Christmas prayer in your heart!

Costume Characters Needed.  Some of our scheduled volunteers have become sick and will not be able to participate tonight.  If you would like to volunteer and are not scheduled for tonight, come on down and we will find a place for you tonight, or anytime throughout the weekend!

Volunteer Parking.  As always, we ask that NO CARS be parked on the West side of the building.  Please, if you are a volunteer, remember to park on the EAST side of the building, out of sight, and walk through the building from that side.  Thank you, in advance, for your help with this.

Dress Warm.  Please ensure you and your kids are properly dressed in layers to keep them warm while serving outside over the weekend.

December Giving.  Falling short of budget in November, we want to finish strong in December!  Please review your giving to ensure you are current.  In addition, an information brochure will be available in the sanctuary chair pockets describing how to make year-end" financial gifts.  Remember, any such gifts must be postmarked or received in our office, by December 31, to count toward your 2012 giving.

Read the Bible Through in 2013.  Our one and two-year Bible reading plans are available in the brochure rack in the Worship Center foyer.  Plan to read God's Word systematically in 2013 or in 2013-14!  You will be blessed!

Let's join prayers for an impactful weekend as we present Christ to our community!

It's Here! Many Lights of Christmas Begins!

Happy Thursday everyone,

I have returned from my trip to see our daughter and son-in-law, serving as missionaries, just in time to jump into The Many Lights of Christmas!  It will be a blessed and happy time for our church as we actively love our community through this amazing outreach!  Here are some things you should know ...

Many Lights Evening Schedule.  When you come for your appointed volunteer time, here is what you can expect and how you can help.

4:30 - 5:30 p.m.  Dinner in the Cafe

5:15 - 5:20 p.m.  Prayer and Instructions in the Cafe

5:20 - 5:30 p.m.  Dress in Costume in the gymnasium and stage in the Cave

5:45 - 5:50 p.m.  Go to your assigned positions

6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  Participate in the MLOC

9:00 - 9:15 p.m.  Clean up and Close

The meals include meat loaf on Friday night, spaghetti on Saturday night, and soup and salad on Sunday night!  Come early, bring a Christmas smile for your face, and a Christmas prayer in your heart!

Costume Characters Needed.  Each year, as we begin, we are somewhat uncertain about the number of volunteers to expect.  At the moment, we feel we need more to be in character, and serve in other places!  Call ahead, if possible, to let us know you can help, or just come with a willing spirit.

Volunteer Parking.  As always, we ask that NO CARS be parked on the West side of the building.  Please, if you are a volunteer, remember to park on the EAST side of the building, out of sight, and walk through the building from that side.  Thank you, in advance, for your help with this.

Hayrides.  We are able to offer hayrides through The Many Lights of Christmas!  The cost is $3.00 per person, with a $10.00 family cap.  Enjoy your trip through the lighted drive-through in a different way!  Let the authorized persons know at the entrance that you want to do the hayride, and they will direct you.

It is so good to be home and ready to serve alongside some of the most amazing people I know!  It will be a blast!  I hope to see you on opening night, Friday night, as we welcome our congregation and community to the 2012 edition of The Many Lights of Christmas!  See you then!

Good News ... Bad News ...

Hello everyone,

I trust you have had a wonderful week!  Here are some updates as we approach the weekend.

Good News.  We ended our Fall discipleship series this past Wednesday night (Women's Bible Study, Men's Bible Study, Financial Peace University) in style!  Good attendance, high morale, stronger relationships, spiritual momentum, and more!  Look for new opportunities after the first of the year!

Also, I will conclude our current sermon series this Sunday on Faith Enough to Change My Life.  I trust God has encouraged you, strengthened you, and grown your faith during this inspiring time in our church.

Bad News.  One of the two large HVAC units that services the Learning and Activity Center (LAC) completely failed this week, noted by the Sunday School classes that sat in 57 degree temperatures last Sunday!  The good news is that it will be replaced next week.  The bad news is that it will cost right at $10,000.  Needless to say, it was unexpected and will present a strain on our budget.  Let's do our best to be current in our tithes and offerings the next two Sundays as we have to absorb this expense in an already lean budget.  Thanks in advance for your effort!

In addition, if you were planning to make an additional year-end financial gift to the church by December 31st, perhaps you could make it early!  :-)

Sunday School Class Room Change.  Due to the inability to adequately heat the Learning and Activity Center (LAC), the adult Sunday School Classes that meet there normally will be moved to Rooms 203/204, in the corridor behind the downstairs church kitchen.  Please make a mental note of this change and follow the directional signs this Sunday!  We'll get through this!

Thanksgiving Week Schedule.  In keeping with our custom, there will be no activities at the church next Wednesday night, November 21st, to allow our congregation to prepare for their Thanksgiving celebrations with family and friends.

Please note, the church office will be closed both Thursday (Thanksgiving Day) and Friday.  There will be Sunday School and our two worship services, as usual, on Sunday, November 25th.

Many Lights of Christmas Work Day is tomorrow (Saturday) from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Come when you can, stay as long as you can. leave when you have to leave.  For those who want/need to work inside, we are having a stapling party to staple the Legend of the Candy Cane to the candy canes we give to each car.  We need to staple approximately 3500 of these.  Hope you can help!

We will provide a light lunch for our volunteers around noon.

Also, consider which nights you can volunteer during the seven nights of The Many Lights of Christmas, and sign up at the MLOC display in the church foyer this Sunday!

Compassion Response and Christmas Drive-through ...

Hello everyone,

Just a few notes and reminders on this beautiful Friday afternoon.

Hurricane Sandy Relief.  Per our Colorado District Disaster and Relief Coordinator, the quickest way to respond with financial relief for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, is to text "HOPE" to 501501 on your cell phone.  This indicates that you want to give a $10 donation, which will then be billed to your phone bill.  

In addition, you can find more information about relief efforts at http://www.ncm.org/news.

Many Lights of Christmas Work Day is tomorrow (Saturday) from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Come when you can, stay as long as you can. leave when you have to leave.  Every Saturday between now and December 1st is "all hands on deck."  Every hour of help makes a difference and is appreciated!  We will provide a light lunch for our volunteers around noon.

Also, consider which nights you can volunteer during the seven nights of The Many Lights of Christmas, and sign up at the MLOC display in the church foyer this Sunday!

More Info on Sunday.  Be sure to read the latest info in the church bulletin this Sunday!  Lots of things about which to know and remain informed.

Blessings on you this day.  I look forward to continuing our current sermon series on faith this Sunday! See you then!

Daylight Savings Time and More ...

Hello everyone,

On this crisp Autumn Friday, let me send a few reminders about Saturday and Sunday at SFC!

Daylight Savings Time begins this weekend!  Remember, in the Fall, "fall back" are the key operative words when setting your clock for this semi-annual ritual.  Be sure to set you clocks back one hour before retiring on Saturday night, and enjoy an additional hour of sleep!  In this way, no one will have an excuse to "sleep through the sermon!"

Many Lights of Christmas Work Day is tomorrow (Saturday) from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Come when you can, stay as long as you can. leave when you have to leave.  Every Saturday between now and December 1st is "all hands on deck."  Every hour of help makes a difference and is appreciated!  We will provide a light lunch for our volunteers around noon.

Also, consider which nights you can volunteer during the seven nights of The Many Lights of Christmas, and sign up at the MLOC display in the church foyer this Sunday!

We are currently receiving leftover candy from Halloween, or unopened donated packages of candy you may want to purchase in the after halloween sales.  Bring them to Information Central, please.

Thanksgiving Appreciation Lunch for Nazarene Bible College is Sunday, November 11th, following our second service.  We are finalizing plans.  If you are a student, faculty member, staff or administration, and regularly attend Springs First Church ... you and your family are invited.  Please sign up on the bulletin response panel this Sunday, or call the church office no later than Tuesday, November 6th. 

Sermon Series on Faith.  I am excited to continue our deeper look at Faith Enough to Change Our Lives.  Please attend the service of your choice, arrive early, and be seated and ready for God to talk to you this very Sunday!  See you there!

Friday Highlights ...

Good afternoon friends,

Sunday is less than 48 hours away!  Let me share some things you may want to know.

Sunday Highlights.   We got off to a great start in our second one-hundred years as we focused on the kind of faith that pleases God and impacts our world!  This Sunday is the second sermon of this exciting series on practical faith, Faith Enough to Change Our Lives.

In addtion, we are celebrating our unique and close relationship with Nazarene Bible College.  President Harold Graves will brings greetings, and we will join churches around the globe, receiving the annual Nazarene Bible College offering.  Please come prepared to participate in this special offering of love and support.

New attenders will join our church in the Classic Service.  Look for them and make an effort to get acquainted after the service.  We thank God for sending us new members!

October Giving.  Actually, October has not been a strong month to date.  Realizing that many are still traveling this fall, please review your giving and bring it current this Sunday.  Without two very unusally strong Sundays to end the month, we will fall far short of budget.  Please help us avoid that situation.  Thank you in advance for your attention to this important matter.

Upcoming Events.  Our Children's department is sponsoring a Trunk or Treat night for church and community families on Wednesday, October 31st, in the church's west parking lot.  We are now accepting bags of candy for this family-friendly event!  You may bring your bags of candy to Information Central each of the next two Sundays.  Leftover candy will be used in our annual Many Lights of Christmas event.

A fall Teen Hayride is planned for Sunday night, October 28th, 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.  This is a great opportunity to invite friends and neighbors!  Look for more details in the Sunday bulletin and at the youth service on Wednesday evenings.

Construction continues for the sets for The Many Lights of Christmas.  Special crews are working each Saturday in October to complete specific projects.  We will need all hands on deck beginning Saturday, November 3rd!  Please reserve that Saturday to come and work on this exciting event that we offer the community during the Christmas season.

Annual NBC Thanksgiving Appreciation Lunch.  Each year, we have prepared a wonderful Thanksgiving meal for congregation members and friends who work or go to school at Nazarene Bible College and regularly attend Spring First Church.  It is our way of saying "thanks" for their hard work and contribution to the life and ministry of SFC!  If you are a member of the staff, administration, faculty, or student of Nazarene Bible College, and are regular attenders at SFC, please sign up beginning this Sunday for this Thanksgiving event for you and your family!  Use the "tear off" response panel at the bottom of your bulletin and place it in the offering plate on Sunday morning.

Well, that about wraps it up for today!  I can hardly wait to bring you the Good News on Sunday!  See you then!

Pastor Grate

Centennial Celebration Weekend Is Here!!!

Hello everyone!

I am excited about our centennial celebration weekend events and activities!  Hope your family and friends are planning to participate!  Even if the weather is cold outside, we will be warm inside as we celebrate 100 years of service to our church and community.  Here is what we're doing ...

Saturday Activities

• Chuckwagon BBQ on Saturday afternoon, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m., in the gymnasium and LAC. No charge. Dress western or dress casual.  It doesn't matter, just come for this memorable event!  Enter the building through the Cave, Worship Center, or East Entrance.  The LAC entrance is reserved for Senior Adults or those with special needs.

• Flyin' W Wrangler concert begins at 5:00 p.m.  No charge.  It will be a fun and entertaining time for everyone.

Sunday Services and Activities

• The Hebrews Cafe will be open for short-order and/or continental breakfast by 8:30 a.m on Sunday morning.  Fresh-baked cinnamon rolls or a full-cooked breakfast with hot coffee!  Yum!  Why not come early for breakfast with your family and friends!

• The Centennial Celebration Service will begin prompty at 10:00 a.m. in the Worship Center.  Come early, be in your seat, don't miss a single minute of this historic service!  Childcare is provided for kids up to 3 years old.  All others will be in the service.

• This nearly two hour service will include blasts from the past, remembrances from the present, and hope for the future!  I can hardly wait!

• Don't forget to receive your gifts and commemorative items at the close of the service.

• Stop by the Hospitality and Heritage Center to see the new displays from past and present, and check our Springs First Church Authors and Artists display!

Thanks for listening.  I'll see you on Saturday ... and Sunday!