Triennial!

The day started as any normal day except for the fact that I (Kinsey) hate waking up on my day off at the crack of dawn (7 a.m.).  Thankfully my husband is well aware of this and had the coffee ready.  My mom, Julie, convinced my younger brother that taking us to the airport would win brownie points!  We (Julie, Kinsey, and Cheryl) stopped for a photo op to document this occasion at DIA.  We are going to a conference called Triennial.  The Triennial website descirbes it as the gathering of women of the Evangelical Covenant Church that takes place once every three years. It is an eventful experience in the lives of those who come. It is a place to enjoy fellowship of the richest kind with women from all over the country and world. It is a time to worship God with fullness and joy. It is an opportunity to learn and grow and develop skills to strengthen your spiritual life, or to begin new life with Jesus Christ! It is a moment to relax, unwind, and to find joy and energy and peace in all of it..  The three of us are representing our church here in Washington DC.

We arrived in Washington DC without any issues!  We are staying at the Omni hotel and have a great view of the Washington Monument from our room!  It it such a cool experience to stay in this grand hotel with so much history.  The hotel has been open since the 1930s and has been host to many presidents, movies, and movie stars. Here are some pics of the lobby:  

  

 

We had the opportunity to experience some great Mediterranean food. 

 Cheryl and I shared the hummus tray and the lamb.  I've never had lamb before and it was some of the most unique food I've ever tasted! 

We are so excited to be here and will try to update the blog daily.  Hope you can follow along this week with our adventures.  If you would like to experience Triennial yourself, you can listen to the talks starting Thursday evening at this link: http://www.triennialxiii.org/videos.php.

Get to Know You

Get to Know Debby Hardy:

I want to introduce you to Debbie Hardy! I asked Debby to share with us some of the steps of faith she is taking in her life. I'll let you all snoop in my interview with her. Be sure to check out our blog list! Debby's blog is now on the list!

Where Have You Come From and Where Are You Going?
Since the time Bryan was diagnosed with cancer, I have been sending e-mail updates to friends and family. Each message ends with a word of hope or encouragement found in scripture, books, television, movies, magazines, or wherever. Sharing with others continues to help me during the most difficult times of my life.

My blog is at http://SteppingThruLife.blogspot.com. For now, I’m posting the same messages that I send in my e-mail updates.

I have started a new career as a writer. My first book, tentatively titled Stepping Through Cancer: When Someone You Love is Diagnosed With Cancer, is being edited and should be published in a few months. It’s a manual for cancer caregivers, to help them with day-to-day issues.

When my cancer book’s website is up, I’ll be blogging there for cancer caregivers. In addition to having parts of my book available on the website, we’ll also have a Memories Wall for loved ones and a Victories Wall for cancer survivors.

I am writing two other books as well, one my personal story of our cancer journey and one called Life is a Sudoku Puzzle.

Describe Your Family:
I am a widow with four grown children and five and a half grandchildren (the sixth one is due in September).

When did you become a Christian?
As a young child in a large family with an abusive father, I longed for peace and hope that only Christ could give. When I heard the salvation story and the promise of everlasting life and joy with Him, it was music to my ears. God is the Father I never had.

How long have you been attending Arvada Covenant and are you involved in any ministries?
I met my husband Bryan in April 1995 when Christian Singles Network held a dinner with the singles group at Arvada Covenant, where he was attending. We were married that October by Pastor Wes Swanson. I’ve attended here ever since we met.

I’ve been a part of the music ministry as choir member, accompanist, worship team member, worship leader, actor, director, and Chair and Secretary of the Music, Worship and Drama Committee. I’m currently on the Worship Arts Commission and help out many ways in music ministry.

Bryan and I facilitated the Blended Families Support Group for eight years, where we all learned how to put up with our step kids. Although 60% of second and 80% of subsequent marriages end in divorce, our divorce rate was only 25%. I guess we were successful, but those failed marriages broke my heart.

I’ve also helped with Children’s Choir and Women Ministries, been a Sunday morning greeter, taught Adult Sunday School, worked the Welcome Desk, and volunteered for Royal Family Kids’ Camp.

I am now involved in the Seasoned Singles, a group of informally-organized older adult Christian singles who like to get together and have fun. Some of the singles are looking for a spouse, but not me. Although Bryan predicted I would remarry, I let him know he’s a tough act to follow.

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire.
I wanted a husband who would love me for myself, not for what I could do for him, and who would be the religious leader of our family. Bryan was that man. I learned that the “happily ever after” that we hear about in fairy tales is possible, but it takes work. We found our "happily ever after."

In the months since his death, I’ve decided that I could either be angry at God for taking Bryan or I could be thankful for the time that we were together. I chose thankfulness and the joy that comes with it. I was so fortunate to have that time with Bryan. Life is good!

What is your "job"... I know in this church there are many mothers as well as women who are involved in a career, church, community and volunteer work. Just tell me a little about what you do with your time whether it be kids, work, church, volunteering, pursuing hobbies/goals/dreams, etc... You all are very interesting and capable women and I would love to know what you "do"!
I just retired from Qwest after 37 years of working for “the phone company” (I started when I was 4 years old!). While working, I raised two children and earned two college degrees. My first husband was a Minister of Music, so I also helped to plan the music, sometimes directed the choir, performed, and played the piano and organ, all while holding down a job and going to college.

My sister went back to work after her children were grown and asked how I could get everything done in addition to working. I guess you just plan ahead and clean one room each evening so you don’t have to spend every Saturday cleaning the whole house!

What is your favorite flower?
Daisies are the most wonderful, make-you-smile, feel-good flowers, although receiving roses is special.

What view would you love from your kitchen window?
I have a great view! I get to watch sunsets over the mountains almost every evening. In the summer, the sun goes down behind Long’s Peak and it’s gorgeous.

What is your most treasured recipe?
Pecan pie bars. They are scrumptious and taste just like pecan pie. You don’t need to eat a whole slice of pie, just a bite or two.

What is the most ridiculous fashion trend you ever followed?
I wore paper dresses in the ‘60’s! They didn’t last very long, usually just one wearing, and you had to be careful not to move too fast or they’d rip. AND you had to be sure to wear a full slip underneath, just in case something tore and exposed what you didn’t want anybody to see!

What celebrity did you have a crush on as a girl?Paul McCartney. I was a true Beatles fan and could sing all of their songs. I even ironed my hair!

What would you save first if your house caught on fire?
Bryan’s original paintings, as many as I could carry. He spent six years painting cars and selling prints of them at car shows. I still have many originals at home, in addition to some amazing flower paintings that he did after a car accident in 2006 ended his car-painting career.

What was your favorite family vacation and why?
Bryan and I took a trip to Orlando a few years ago that God planned for us. Bryan had made reservations on Expedia.com for airfare, hotel, and a rental car, but a glitch blocked the transaction. When he called Expedia, they got us airline reservations, a larger rental car, and a private four-bedroom house with our own pool and Jacuzzi! It was the most wonderful, relaxing time.

Thanks for letting peek in on your life, Debbie! I look forward to seeing where God takes you on this journey!

Dessert

We had a wonderful evening with our guest, Noriko, who is visiting from Japan.  Noriko is in the States to spend time with churches in the Midwest Conference before going to the women's conference, Triennial, in Washington, DC.  Noriko shared her testimony with us.  While she doesn't feel her English is adequate, we were all able to understand her perfectly.  It takes a lot of courage to come to a new place and share the most important story in your life in your second language!  We are amazed at what God has been doing in her life and the life of the church in Japan!

Noriko shared with us that about 1% of Japanese people claim to be Christians.  She and her husband were called to be pastors at Shonandai Christ Church in Japan several years ago.  Their church was recently able to move from their current location and buy a piece of land in a nearby community with no church presence.  Before Noriko left Japan they moved our of their current parsonage and into a rented apartment.  Their new church will be built over the next few months!  We are so happy that Noriko will be here for a few weeks and hope that she will be able to replenish during her time here. 

Raise the Flag is a part of the mission of the National Covenant Women's Ministries to bring women from around the world to their national conference, Triennial, that occurs every 3 years.  Midwest Conference has been raising money to pay for Noriko's trip and conference cost. We have such generous hearts in our congregation.  We were thrilled to raise $200 for Raise the Flag.  The proceeds will go directly towards the cost of Noriko's trip.  We appreciated the almost 20 women who were able to participate in this informal dessert!  Thank you! 

Dessert with Noriko.

We have an upcoming event where we have the opportunity to talk with Noriko Kawamura of Japan!  She is the women our Midwest Conference is sponsoring to go to Triennial as a part of the "Raise the Flag" campaign.  "Raise the Flag" is a campaign, as stated by CWM's executive minister Ruth Hill, in which the objective is to bring international guests from the Covenant's countries of missionary service to Triennial XIII, July 22 - 25, 2010 in Washington DC. Along with attending Triennial, they will also travel within their sponsoring conference or church region, sharing about themselves and their mission work.

With financial assistance from the women of the Midwest Conference Noriko Kawamura of Japan will arrive in Denver on July 7th.  ACC is hosting a dessert for her while she is here.  See the left side of the blog for details! 

Noriko is a licensed pastor and serves at Shonandai Christ Church in Japan. Before that she was a missionary for 16 years working with Japanese churches in England and Germany. Noriko and her husband have grown children and a grandson.

As of June 15th our conference has raised a total of $150.00 towards the total estimated cost of $3,800.00 to bring Noriko to the United States, attend Triennial XIII and be available to visit churches or groups within our conference.  You will have an opportunity to donate to this cause at our event if you are able. 

We are excited about this opportunity to host a gathering for Noriko and hope you will be able to attend!

Moms Next

We have something new and exciting coming to Arvada Covenant Church!

COMING THIS SEPTEMBER

We are excited to announce the launch of a new ministry designed for moms with school aged children that would meet twice a month.

More details to come in the next couple of months, but we are looking at a launch date of September 16th from 12:30-2:00 PM* at Arvada Covenant Church.

Please pass the word along (please feel free to forward this e-mail). If you would like to be put on an e-mail list for further information as this develops, please send your name/e-mail address to DLPelon@msn.com.

Thank you and hope to see many of you this fall!

Sincerely,

Linda Pelon

Coordinator

Moms Next – Arvada Covenant Church

Get to Know You

Get To Know Linda Pelon

You may recognize this post from April!  I am re-posting it because I think it is important to reintroduce Linda as our new Moms Next Coordinator!

 Describe why you feel called to be our first Moms Next Coordinator:

I was part of MOPS for 8 years and will forever be grateful for all the valuable things I learned about parenting and friendships made! Having that support system meant so much. It was good to know other mom's struggled with the same things I did and then it was great when you would meet a mom with younger children and could now share advice and encouragement to her.

When I "graduated" from MOPS, I wished there was a new place for me to go and get that same fellowship and encouragement. Now having elementary-Middle School-High School sons, and with present day challenges facing our kids, when I first heard our church was willing to host this new ministry - I knew this is where God was directing me to lead. Looking forward to giving that encouragement once again to mom's and seeing new friendships blossom!

 

Describe your family:

Husband Dan (Met our Senior Year at Arvada High School) married 21 years. Three sons - Joshua 15 - Aaron 12 - James 10

What are your passions?

Being a good mom & wife. Love to organize/clean!!

When do you become a Christian?

When I was 7 while at our after school caregivers house by one of the teenage daughters.

Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?

Dan surprised me with a trip to Germany for our 20th Anniversary to see my favorite castle in Bavaria! Also loved England!

What are your hobbies?

Crazy I know - but I love to Organize and clean! Give me a mess and I love to fix it!

How long have you been attending Arvada Covenant and are you involved (or would like to be involved) in any ministries?

Been attending since May of 1999. Involved with MOPS and served as Co-Coordinator for MOPS A 2003-2005. Then served as Co-Coordinator for Women Ministries 2005-2009 and now serve as Decorations Chair for WM. Have served as a Sunday School teacher for 4 year olds when our sons were younger and also as a Captain for ACKC many years.

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire.

To be blessed with a faithful and loving husband and my three sons!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

Here in Arvada, but would love a beach vacation home too.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

All I ever wanted to be was a good mom and hope my son's will think so as they look back when they are grown.

When was the last time you laughed and why?

Just watched the movie "Old Dogs" and I haven't laughed that much in a long time.

We are thrilled to have this new ministry at ACC.  We hope as a Women Ministry we can support and encourage this new and vital ministry for women to grow! 

Keeping Connected

I love having a blog that keeps us connected to each other.  In a larger church it can be difficult to feel like you know or are known by others.  I would like to try something new!  I know there are several women in our church who have or are a part of a business.  There are other women who are trying to get a writing career off the ground.  There are others that are involved in other areas of ministry in the church that may want to get the word out about an event pertaining to women (i.e. new Bible Studies, etc.). I would love for this to be a place where we can get the word out about those things!  I'm going to label them as Keeping Connected so they will appear in a group heading on the left side of the blog.  I would also like to add websites to our website list on the left.  Or add blogs to our blog list of other women who blog in the church.  Please let me know if anything comes to mind!  Email me at kringenberg@gmail.com!

~Kinsey~

Craft Night

Last weekend we had a great time with women of all ages making these beautiful flower pins!  Jessica and Momma J as well as Jessica's two daughters directed this craft nights.  They do a great job organizing the crafting events and we are really thankful for them!!  Look at our beautiful creations!

  

  

  

It was a great time!! 

Get to Know You

Hi Ladies!  Don't forget about the Craft Night tomorrow!  See the left column for details!

Get to Know Linda!

Describe your family:

My husband and I will celebrate our 35th anniversary this year. We have two adult children: Ashley & Ryan and a wonderful daughter-in-law, Lauren and great son-in-law, Jeremy

What are your passions?

My passion is to spend time with family and friends. I enjoy watching many sporting events and enjoy playing tennis, racquetball, hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing.

When do you become a Christian?

I grew up going to church and learning about the love of God since I was little, but really drew closer to God when I went to college.

Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?

I love to travel but don't really have a favorite place. Each place has it's own unique characteristics that have captured my interest. Some places that stand out are Bermuda, Stockholm, London and some of the Caribbean Islands.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy reading and making cards in my spare time.

How long have you been attending Arvada Covenant and are you involved (or would like to be involved) in any ministries?

I've attended ACC for about 14 years and have been involved in Youth Ministry as well as Women Ministries (currently)

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire.

My kids (never take that for granted)!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I'm a native and love Colorado. If I moved anywhere else, it would be to a more temperate climate year round.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Grow up??

When was the last time you laughed and why?

I laughed at my cat last night because the things they get themselves into are soooo funny. Let's just say that she was somewhere that she was not supposed to be.

Thanks for sharing with us, Linda!!

Get To Know You

Get To Know Griselda

Describe your family:

Most of you already know that I am a mother of 3 beautiful boys; Angel 20 yrs old, Estephan 17 yrs, and Kai 6. Michael and I have been married for 8 years and life is good…Praise the Lord!!!

How long have you been attending ACC?

My family and I have been at ACC for 11/2 yrs

What are your passions?

My passion is first God and then my family. Having the blessing to stay home with my children has been my greatest joy.

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire?

Coming from verbal abuse and feeling unloved as a little girl, I knew there was a God but I never understood His love for me until I opened up myself to Him. There on that first day I stepped into a non-denominational church in California and during worship as my eyes were closed and full of tears, I saw Jesus holding me in His arms like a father holds his child pressed upon His chest. That day He gave put a huge desire in my heart to seek Him more. I want to know more of His love and grace He has for me.

When did you become a Christian?

August - 2004

What is your favorite coffee drink?

Do not have one

What do you like to do in your free time?

Workout - kickboxing

Describe your dream vacation.

Anywhere as long as my family is with me.

What was one of the last things that made you belly laugh?

While I was in California, Michael’s step-mom and I were grocery shopping and I was pushing the cart. In the middle of the isle was a “wet floor” orange cone. I thought it was going to be heavy and I kicked it so hard that it flew fast across the isle and almost hit someone. We laughed so hard that I thought I was going to pee my pants.

Who do you admire?

If I had to choose someone, it would be my husband Michael. You all might not know this but my husband is 9 yrs younger than me and never been married before me. He took on such a huge responsibility marrying me and my two older boys. He has been such a blessing in our lives. Even though he is young he has always been such a responsible individual. I don’t think I could have taken someone else’s family as easy as he accepted mine.

Griselda ~ Thanks so much for letting us get to know you better!

Craft Night

Just wanted to give you an idea of what we will be doing at the craft night!!  Here's two exaples of the flowers we will be making.  Hope you can be there and bring a daughter, mother, sister, friend, family member, or anyone you can think of that would enjoy this!  Look forward to seeing you there.  See the top of the left hand column of the blog for more details!

See you May 16th!

"This is What Church Should Look Like"

If you are like me, the subject of human trafficking is not an appealing concept to dwell on or discuss. It is much easier to pretend the atrocity does not exist, especially in a suburban area like Arvada. It's easy to think of it as a problem that only occurs in other parts of the world ~ not here.

I think it's easy as a church to ignore this topic because the subject matter can be so controversial and uncomfortable. In order to truly discuss this topic it involves talking about pimps and exploitation of young women, men and even children, and all the language that surrounds it. Not exactly what you would deem "church talk." Sometimes it seems we are more willing to talk about the pretty parts of our faith; like redemption, grace, mercy and love but forget that there are very ugly things in our world that are the very reason we need redemption, grace, mercy and love. Sometimes it requires us to talk about the ugly in order to give hope through the pretty. It seems so foreign to us to think of having a relationship with someone in human trafficking when Jesus spent a lot of time with them; the woman at the well, Mary Magdalene, and others that were the exploiters of his day, like tax collectors. He didn’t just spend time with them, he developed a relationship with them.

So, when I came to the event I was not sure what to expect. Barb and her team had tried many different methods of publicity including public service announcements on radio and television stations, fire stations, and police stations. They were hoping that this would reach out to the community and make this event about our community and this topic is not just a ‘Christian’ thing to do but an issue among all of us in Arvada. We were hoping to be a very relevant church. I came in the front door of the church and all the displays were set up and a nice refreshment table awaited the attendees who wanted to visit after the event. So I got in my mode... i.e. make sure you helped welcome people and made them feel at home. Barb, the chief organizer of the event, and her team have all the details in place so I can just relax, welcome people, and take in the event. We had great displays for people to learn more about the topic.

 As I was walking around looking at the displays before the event started, I see a woman come into the church hesitantly. She seemed a little out of her element. So, I figure I better grab her and "rope" her in while I had the chance. I go to greet her and find out that she had taken a bus from Denver to get to this event. I found it amazing that she was that dedicated to hearing the message that she would find a bus route to this event. I introduced her to several people so she would feel at home. Debbie even offered to give her a ride home! Several more unfamiliar faces came through the door as well as several members from the church, including all our pastors; Pastor John, Pastor Nathan and Pastor Bill!

We welcomed Dr. Annjanette Alejano-Steele (or AJ as she likes to be called) as a guest speaker. AJ is a professor at Metro State College and she works extensively in several capacities to fight human trafficking. One way she brings awareness to this cause is through an organization she co-founded called Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking (LCHT). AJ was a compelling and captivating speaker even though the subject matter was very difficult. She instructed us on the definition of human trafficking, local and national statistics, and how it relates to us here in Colorado. The most shocking information of the night was that there were no laws in Colorado regarding Human Trafficking until 2006!!! That is very recent.

Barb Introduces our Speaker:

Dr. Annjanette Alejano-Steele:

AJ with her interns, Debra and Courtney

Kinsey, Cheryl, Barb, AJ, Courtney and Debra

Barb and her team of volunteers did such a wonderful job at organizing this event. Our Women Ministries team was overwhelmed by the response to this event to raise awareness about such a difficult issue. Ninety-Five men and women were able to attend and several hundred dollars were raised for the Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking (LCHT) and a New Day for Children (The focus of our National Women Ministries for 2010)! Look at the bottom left side of the blog for links to these organizations.

After the event, the woman that had come by bus told me that she had never felt so welcomed in a church and felt that "this is what church should look like." She was impressed that our church would promote awareness to this cause when so many people choose to pretend it doesn't exist.

Not only was I excited about the turnout and overwhelming response to this event, but I was touched by the heart of our friend from afar.

I was also moved by the information shared at this event. It is heart breaking to see children exploited in such evil ways. Our Women Ministries team is praying about ways that God may continue to use the women of our church to further show love and support to victims of human trafficking. What are your thoughts? If you came to “Break the Chains,” do you have any ideas or thoughts on what we should do? And, How do we do it?

~Kinsey~


Thoughts from Cheryl:
The easy part of the evening was donating money. It was safe. It kept me distant. I lead the women ministries so of course I will support this cause ~ Right!!

In my safe little world of Arvada I encountered TRUTH. The truth is that within 3 miles of our church is a truck stop, a big truck stop. With an ‘adult’ store across the street, and across the other street is a bar with a pole centered on a stage for nightly entertainment. This is a truck stop that most certainly has women and girls (to hit home - children); being pimped. Human trafficking is alive and well, and it shames me to know how long I have turned an eye away from those right next door, my neighbors. What struck me most was to realize what personal judgment I had passed on the women that I used to call Prostitutes and now realize they are Sex Slaves. Language is a powerful thing, I can give support, add comfort or condemn the very people I am called to love by labeling. And in labeling, I become a deliverer or a judge.

I don’t know what plan specifically God would have me do to love a wounded and hurting slave, and it scares me to death to think about that path. I do know I will not continue to judge but will embrace the poor, enslaved and needy women that I intersect. I also know that I will do what God puts in my hand to do, I will stare need and hurt in the face and I will attempt to be a deliverer.

~Cheryl~

Thoughtful Truths: Break the Chains

At our Women’s Spring Retreat we focused on Restoration. As I journeyed through that weekend and have continued that journey through prayer and in my journal I have realized that restoration is the central theme of all that we are doing in Women Ministries at ACC. We create events like Spring Retreat, Advent Brunch, and Fall into Fellowship to slow us down and spend the time to reflect on our direction with God, to connect with another woman who could grow into someone that can challenge us while showing us the most devoted love of a sister or mother.

I believe I am always on the journey of restoration and I have some pretty dicey situations in my extended families that I am on my knees before God to find the path of obedience, not the path of least resistance. It is truly only God that can heal my broken heart and the hearts of those that I hurt.

It is easy for me to get wrapped up in my egocentric world; and then, God reminds me that the upcoming event, “Break the Chains,” is about the restoration of women who have been held captive as slaves to sex and a perversion of true love. This is a tough sell! I know that most of us will have a number of reasons not to go. And there are some of us, if we are honest, that won’t go because we just don’t want to hear about such atrocities in our own city. I cannot force you to come, but I can challenge you to not shy away from the ‘unlovely’ people that surround us everyday. This is a chance for all of us to ask God HOW he wants us to be restored. Sometimes restoration of our own souls comes in serving those that need something, more than what we need for ourselves.

If you are in the search for restoration in your life; join that search with women, who need women, who know how to love like Christ. That’s You!!!

~Cheryl~

Get to Know You

This week you are going to get to know Jamie!

Describe Your Family:

Our family includes Michael (my husband) and two 10 year old boys Elijah and Seth. They are step brothers but have been together since the age of 3. In the summers we like to camp at places where we can ride our ATVs. On weekends we watch movies as family entertainment and the boys are always helping my husband with home projects. They are learning the trade of a carpenter at a young age.

Where would you go for your dream vacation?

At the end of April we are all going on the Disney Cruise for 3 days and then off to Disney World for 2. We are all very excited.

How long have you been attending ACC and are you involved in any ministries?

I've been attending about 6 months if not longer. I currently attend a small group on Wednesday nights lead by Nate Powell.

When did you become a Christian?

Around 8-12 but didn't develop a true relationship until I turned 30.

Coke or Pepsi?
Diet Pepsi

What's your favorite coffee drink?

Chai Tea or Soy Moca 2 pumps no whip :)

What do you want to be when you "grow up?"

A servant for the Lord

What are you passionate about in life?

Keeping a positive attitude and sharing the gospel with those struggling in life's unexpected turns

Name one way God has given you the desires of your heart?

Blessing my family with good health and loving us everyday

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Honestly right now in life I really enjoy - Sleeping in my free time

Thanks for sharing, Jamie!!

12 Reasons Why You Don't Want to Miss Spring Retreat Next Year!

What Women Had to Say About Spring Retreat:

"One great benefit from our retreat is that I met and got better acquainted with some of the gals at my table during the retreat. Well, about a week later I ran into one of them, when I was shopping at Target, and since we had made that connection at the retreat we enjoyed a nice conversation together where we both commented on such a great event that was fun and meaningful. So, I made a new friend! Not to mention that I'm the new owner of a beautiful Prada purse from the purse exchange!"


"I was convicted by her (Carey Scott) comment that 'living life with God's people is hard and community is messy, but worth it.'"

"I enjoyed the fellowship of other women, either in a new friendship or one that had already been established. Staying overnight definitely allowed more time to connect."

"I have been far away for too long. This weekend I feel that God called me back to Him.  Please pray as I continue my journey back to Him."

"I have been dealing with a broken relationship with my youngest daughter, so I was encouraged to mend that relationship and we are now in the process of rebuilding"

"It was nice getting away with women of all different ages for the weekend. The speaker was interesting/funny and kept your attention with her real life situations that women can relate to. It was nice not worrying about what to fix for dinner, lunch or breakfast and being able to enjoy the time talking to other women."

"I love her (Carey Scott) excitement, vulnerability, and openness to share with us. I also appreciated the opportunity to meet new people and I thought the food was fabulous!"

"I was able to connect with women I had never met.  In a big church it is harder to meet and really get to know people.  Events like this make it easier!"

"The session about restoring our identity really spoke to me. I have been battling fear for years (who doesn’t from time to time). Yet I learned from Nehemiah to face my fears head on through the power of prayer. Fear can hold me back from doing amazing things for the Lord and experiencing all He has in store for my life. I feel like I have been empowered to stand up and overcome my fears!"

"I enjoyed spending time together with other women in a relaxing setting as well as getting a great teaching and new perspectives from the speaker along with worship time."

"The total package: Great hotel to get away for a night - Wonderful speaker - meeting new women and having great fellowship!"

"It was such a delight to sit among 50 plus young, middle and older women at the Women's Retreat and see the expressions on their faces as they listened to the speakers and sang songs of praise. Each were experiencing new meaning to their relationship with our Lord and it registered sweetly on their faces. This blessed my heart"

Hearing the feedback from all these women was so encouraging!  We hope this sparks your interest! When you hear about Spring Retreat next year, make it a priority to come!  We are already in the early planning stages and welcome any suggestions on the event or offers to be involved in the planning!  Save the date for March 18-19th, 2011!

Get to Know You

Get To Know Linda:

Describe your family:

 Husband Dan (Met our Senior Year at Arvada High School) married 21 years. Three sons - Joshua 15 - Aaron 12 - James 10

What are your passions?

Being a good mom & wife. Love to organize/clean!!

When do you become a Christian?

When I was 7 while at our afterschool caregivers house by one of the teenage daughters.

Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?

Dan surprised me with a trip to Germany for our 20th Anniversary to see my favorite castle in Bavaria! Also loved England!

What are your hobbies?

Crazy I know - but I love to Organize and clean! Give me a mess and I love to fix it!

How long have you been attending Arvada Covenant and are you involved (or would like to be involved) in any ministries?

Been attending since May of 1999. Involved with MOPS and served as Co-Coordinator for MOPS A 2003-2005. Then served as Co-Coordinator for Women Ministries 2005-2009 and now serve as Decorations Chair for WM. Have served as a Sunday School teacher for 4 year olds when our sons were younger and also as a Captain for ACKC many years.

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire.

To be blessed with a faithful and loving husband and my three sons!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

 Here in Arvada, but would love a beach vacation home too.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

All I ever wanted to be was a good mom and hope my son's will think so as they look back when they are grown.

When was the last time you laughed and why?

 Just watched the movie "Old Dogs" and I haven't laughed that much in a long time.

Thanks for sharing, Linda!!

New Oasis Class for Women!

We have an exciting new study being offered at Oasis on Wednesday nights!  Starting April 7th, Karen Johnson will be leading a study on a book  called:

Finding yourself struggling with questions of direction, purpose, passion, work and family balance, courage to make a change, or understanding with a definition of success? Do you wonder what the phrase 'you can have it all' really means? All of these questions deal with one challenge - living a strong life. Come and share in a guided discussion about Marcus Buckingham's new book, Find Your Strongest Life, What the Happiest and Most Successful Women do Differently, during a 6 week class, which will meet on Wednesdays, beginning April 7. Marcus has written many other best selling books as well, and has shared this information on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Larry King Live, The Today Show, Dave Ramsey, and others. He comes with experience in getting to the heart of the matter, via in-depth research by thousands of women. He is a solid Christian man who wants to help every woman re-ignite her personal passion and power to discover the role each of us was meant to play. Participant Study Guide will be provided free of charge! We hope you will check it out!

Get to Know You

Get to Know Jenny:

Nicknames:

Jen

Describe Your Family:

Wonderful husband Ron, and 2 fabulous kids, Toriana 13 (3/20/96) and Reece 10 (10/6/99)

What are your passions?

Entrepreneurship, Jesus, My Kids

When did you become a Christian?

I officially became a Christian in VBS when I was in about 2nd grade.

Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?

Amsterdam

What are your hobbies?

Going to my kids sporting events/activities, working out, walking

How long have you been attending Arvada Covenant and are you involved (or would like to be involved) in any ministries?

2006, Womens' ministries, small group coaching

Name one way God has given you your heart's desire.

My family

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I'm living in my dream house in Arvada.

What do you want to be when you "grow up"?

I got it...a mom, wife and business owner

When was the last time you really laughed and why?

I laugh all the time, but yesterday I belly laughed when my family was playing name that tune and we were all singing in the car!

Special thanks to Jenny for letting us post this!

Spring Retreat Update and Pictures

Our Spring Retreat was held at ALOFT hotel this year!  What a great place to have an event!  It was a time to connect with others, enjoy food, worship, play games, sleep (or not sleep for some of you), laugh, meet new people, and learn about restoration from stories in the Old Testament. Carey Scott, our speaker, mentioned that restoration often starts with going back in order to move forward. Like layers of paint on an antique table, you have to take it down to its original design before you can refinish it with stain and varnish. So it is that God uses the corrosive pieces of our life to eat away false identities and reveal who He made us to be. In essence we are all in the process of being restored! Whether you are in the midst of the harsh corrosive of life or in the healing, know that the Master Carpenter is taking great care of His masterpiece, YOU!  Check out this post for a recap of the weekend!

Barb and Linda: can't get much better than these smiling faces to welcome you

Our evening began with dinner and then worship led by Sara Bieri! She has such a gift for leading worship and it was a great way to prepare our hearts for the message:

Carey Scott introduced us to three Old Testament characters who play a role in restoring Jerusalem from rubble to its former beauty. Our first character, Zerubbabel, showed us that you must restore your relationships. In doing so you will face opposition, but God will send reinforcements to sustain you.  For Zerubbabel, these reinforcements were the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah. Those men are the type of people that encourage and help you during your best and darkest of times. Do you have a Haggai or Zechariah in your life? Are you being a Haggai or Zechariah for someone?

Our next character was Ezra and he taught us about restoring our community. Community could mean your church, work, family, neighborhood, or any environment in your life.  Do you think that this is not for you or that God has someone better in mind to restore your community?  One thing we learned from this talk is that God has a purpose and a desire to use anyone who is available. If He can use prostitutes, adulterers, or murderers to make a difference, He can sure use you (no matter what your past is) to make a difference in your community. Are you willing?

Our last character was Nehemiah and he taught us that we cannot give into fear! Some form of "fear not" is used 366 times in the Bible. Clearly it is an important command! What fears or obstacles are keeping you from following God's calling in your life?

Carey shared a genuine and vulnerable message from her heart! I think we can all appreciate a woman who is willing to share with such openness!!

Friday Evening ~ Connecting with Friends, Playing Games, & Meeting New People:

 

 

Playing Games:

Saturday Morning: 

Cheryl and Jessica entertain us and give us some food for thought with their skit about restoration and strippers... a furniture stripper that is. We like to keep it clean at these events! Jessica’s character in the skit was a divorced mother navigating the challenges of single parenthood, relationships and how to restore an old chair. That's where the furniture stripper comes in...and he happens to be a single Christian man who leads a Bible Study (a potential match or what!) We learned that just like this poor chair, we all need restoration in life. See the previous blog post where we have some "Thoughtful Truths" regarding restoration using the analogy of the chair in the skit. Needless to say, I think they managed to make sure we were awake with their play on words!

Barb gives us an update on the Break the Chains event.  Look for info coming soon on the blog.

We also decided to spice the afternoon up by beginning with a purse exchange.  We encouraged women to bring a gently used purse and exchange it in a free for all.  Thankfully no brawls broke out this year! But as you can see we took this exchange seriously! Extra purses will be donated to Theodora House.

Enjoying the beautiful March weather before our Saturday afternoon session:

Cheryl and Kinsey after the retreat:

Are we really happy to have a Spring Retreat under our belts?

Or just delirious...Hard to tell!

We hope you will were able to grow spiritually through this experience!  One of many ways to continue this journey is by using the journals and heart boxes that contain application questions:

Or by investing in your relationships with women at the retreat!  Who is your Haggai or Zechariah?

What a great retreat!! Thank you to everyone who was able to make it. We really tried to capture the weekend through photos of everyone! However, there were a few pictures that didn’t turn out well and were not included! Sorry if I missed you in the photo collection because of that! If there are any specific photos you would like emailed to you, contact Kinsey.