January 16, 2022

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What is the overarching story that defines your life? What gives your life purpose and meaning? Who is the author? What role do you play? What happens when the story does not go as you planned it to?

The story of Ruth is a story of tragedy, loss, pain, heartache, uncertainty, bitterness, and fear. It is a story that shocks us with how real and tragic it is, but it is also a story that reminds us of the much larger story that all of our life stories are a part of: God’s redemptive story. The story of Ruth is a reminder for us of God’s unfolding redemptive story that takes place not only in the pages of Scripture but also in our everyday lives. Amidst the tragedies and through the everyday ordinariness of life God’s redemptive story continues to unfold in us, among us, and through us, but the only way we will notice it is in our everyday faithfulness.

Today we see in the story of Ruth 2 how God's redemptive story continues to unfold not only in the lives of those involved, but also through the lives of those involved in the story. God's redemptive story continues to unfold through the faithful acts of Ruth and Boaz. How might God be wanting to use you in His redemptive story?

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                                        

Call to Worship

*Songs                                                    O Praise Him                                                -Crowder

                                                               Song Of Love                    -St. James, Bronleewe, Ash

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

 The Word of God

*Song                                                    Worthy Worthy                            -Vertical Church Band

Scripture:                                                      Ruth 2    

Message                         “The Unfolding of God’s Redemptive Story”

                                                            Pastor Matt Lee

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

*Song                                                 My Hope Is In You                           -Powell, Third Day      

*Benediction

 Postlude                                       

Mission of the Month Offering Received

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

 January Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

January Mission of the Month – Safe Families for Children: Safe Families for Children hosts vulnerable children and creates extended family-like supports for families facing a crisis through a community of compassionate volunteers to keep children safe and families together. To find out more, please visit their website at www.safe-families.org. 

CONNECT/ Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group:  We have made a decision to put a pause on both CONNECT and our Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group Meetings for the rest of the Wednesdays in January due to the increasing number of Covid cases at this time.  We will be watching the numbers very closely and will let you know as soon as a decision is made for February. Thank you for your understanding.

Super Bowl Sub Sale:  This fundraiser is put on by our Jr. & Sr. High youth groups to help support activities and mission trips. They will 2 kinds of subs offered:

1.      The "Kickoff Special"- Ham and provolone cheese. $4.50 Each or 10 for $40.

2.      The "Touchdown Deluxe"- Ham, salami, provolone, and American cheese. $5.50 Each or 10 for $45. 

Please write your order down on the sign-up sheet that is located on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.  You may also email your order to Joey South at jrsouth16@yahoo.com.  We will continue taking orders until Sunday, January 30th.  The subs will then be made on the Saturday, February 12, and will be available for pickup after the worship service on Super Bowl Sunday, February 13.  Payment is due at pickup.

You Are Invited to a Baby Shower for Sara E-A: Saturday, February 5, at 10:30 am., here at Immanuel, in the Family Life Center. Sara is registered at Amazon and Target. Instead of a card, please consider giving a book. Sara has many Spanish/Bilingual books listed.  Cash or checks payable to Sara E. are also an option so she can purchase large items in Honduras.  (stroller, highchair, diapers, etc.) Masks are encouraged and appreciated.

Join Us Next Sunday as we continue the Sermon Series through Ruth and “The Unfolding of God’s Redemptive Story”:  ( Jan. 30 – Ruth 4)

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Brian and Elizabeth Bruxvoort, Alaska

Pray that we as a family will fervently seek the Lord in the coming year and be fully devoted to Him.  Please pray for full healing of Brian’s eyes.  Please also pray that God will prepare the children’s hearts for camp this summer; to respond to His offered gift of salvation and spiritual growth, and that the ministries in Alaska will bear abundant fruit for Christ.

 If you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org, or you may place a written request in the prayer box that is located just outside of the sanctuary next to the church mailboxes.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                        Sara E-A (Pregnancy), Mark B, June B, John B,

Joe C, Howard J. C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

Kathy G, Roland H, Lon H, Barb K, Wayne K,

Marcia N, Caitlin S (Pregnancy), Wayne S,

Carroll S, and Sandi S

If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

January 25- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

January 27- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

January 30- Super Bowl Sub Orders Due

February 2- CONNECT, Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm. (TBD)

February 5- Sara E-A Baby Shower, 10:30 am.

January 9, 2022

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What is the overarching story that defines your life? What gives your life purpose and meaning? Who is the author? What role do you play? What happens when the story does not go as you planned it to?

The story of Ruth is a story of tragedy, loss, pain, heartache, uncertainty, bitterness, and fear. It is a story that shocks us with how real and tragic it is, but it is also a story that reminds us of the much larger story that all of our life stories are a part of, God’s redemptive story. The story of Ruth is a reminder for us of God’s unfolding redemptive story that takes place not only in the pages of Scripture but also in our everyday lives.

Amidst the tragedies and through the everyday ordinariness of life, God’s redemptive story continues to unfold in us, among us, and through us, but the only way that we will notice it is in our everyday faithfulness. Ruth is a reminder that God’s redemptive story in Jesus Christ continues to unfold through our everyday, ordinary faithfulness.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                                        

Call to Worship

*Songs                                                 I Wanna Be Washed                                         -Spiritual

                            How Great Thou Art/How Great Is Our God -Hine /Tomlin, Reeves, Cash

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

 The Word of God

*Song                                                     We Fall Down                                                   -Tomlin

Scripture:                                                       Ruth 1    

Message                         “The Unfolding of God’s Redemptive Story”

                                                              Pastor Matt Lee

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Celebrate the Lord’s Supper

Responsive Communion Thanksgiving

*Song                                                         All To You                                  -Brewster/McNully 

*Benediction

Postlude                                       

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

January Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

January Mission of the Month – Safe Families for Children: Safe Families for Children hosts vulnerable children and creates extended family-like supports for families facing a crisis through a community of compassionate volunteers to keep children safe and families together. To find out more, please visit their website at www.safe-families.org. 

Flowers Provided By:  Carrie B in celebration of her grandson Zeke’s birthday.  Zeke, we hope that the year ahead holds many wonderful surprises for someone as special as you! Happy Birthday!

CONNECT:  We have made a decision to put a pause on CONNECT for the rest of the Wednesdays in January due to the increasing number of Covid cases at this time.  We do hope to resume again in February, but again it will depend on how many cases there are.  Your safety and your children's safety are of the utmost importance to us, so we will be watching the numbers very closely, and we will let you know as soon as a decision is made for February. Thank you for your understanding.

Winter Game Night on January 15: Let’s begin 2022 with fellowship! Bring your favorite card or board game, and a friend, and come join us for an evening of fun and games next Saturday.  Snacks will be provided.  We will begin at 6:30 pm and will go until the fun is done!

Join Us Next Sunday as we continue the Sermon Series through Ruth and “The Unfolding of God’s Redemptive Story”:  (Jan. 16 – Ruth 2, Jan. 20 – Ruth 3, Jan. 30 – Ruth 4)

Thank You

Immanuel Church Family, as the year draws to a close I just want to take a moment to thank each of you for making Immanuel such an amazing church. My family has appreciated all the ways you have welcomed us over the last year.  Thank you also for the generosity you have shown me and my family throughout the year, but especially this Christmas season with the gifts, cards, and prayers.  You are a great people to have the privilege to pastor and to have the opportunity to serve Christ together with. I look forward to what God has in store over the next year.  Grace and Peace, Pastor Matt

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Brian and Elizabeth Bruxvoort, Alaska

Pray that we as a family will fervently seek the Lord in the coming year and be fully devoted to Him.  Please pray for full healing of Brian’s eyes.  Please also pray that God will prepare the children’s hearts for camp this summer; to respond to His offered gift of salvation and spiritual growth, and that the ministries in Alaska will bear abundant fruit for Christ.

 If you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org, or you may place a written request in the prayer box that is located just outside of the sanctuary next to the church mailboxes.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                        Sara A. (Pregnancy), Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Wayne K., Marcia N, Wayne S., Caitlin S. (Pregnancy), and Carroll & Sandi S.

If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

January 19- Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm.

Our service project this month is the City Rescue Mission.

We have an opportunity this month to volunteer in the Upscale City Rescue Thrift Store or to serve meals at the Men’s and/or Women’s shelters.

The volunteer Coordinator for the City Rescue Mission has stated that their Thrift Store at 3700 W Saginaw Hwy is where they really need help at all hours.  They can utilize groups of up to 10 people at a time from 11:30-5:30 pm Thursday thru Saturday the entire month of January.  They recommend time slots of 2-4 hours at a time.

The Women’s and Children’s Shelter can utilize groups of up to 8 from 5:30-7:30pm.:

January 2nd, 6th, 8th, and 9th.

January 16th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd

January 24th and 28th

The Men’s Shelter can utilize groups of up to 6 from 6:20-8:00pm.

 Saturdays, January 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th

Please keep in mind that this would be a great time for small groups to get together and volunteer.

These times could change as other groups from other churches etc. may take some of these times. 

There will be a sign up sheet on the bulletin board and as you put in times Vivienne will call and confirm your time. Or you could call yourself, Emilee Iseminger, Volunteer Coordinator 485-0145ex1237.

 Super Bowl Sub Sale

This is a fundraiser that we do each year to help support our youth groups and our mission trips.  We will be taking orders through

Sunday, January 30th.

Touchdown Deluxe: (Ham, Salami, Provolone, and American Cheese) $5.50 Each or 10 for $45.

Kick-Off-Special: (Ham and Provolone Cheese) $4.50 Each or 10 for $40.

 You may place your order by signing up on the bulletin board located just outside of the sanctuary, or you may email Joey S.

Please pick up your subs after the worship service on Sunday, February 13th, to either enjoy during the big game, or to freeze for later!  Payment is due at pickup.

December 19, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

During the season of Advent, we will be going through the book of Isaiah in a series titled, “A Thrill of Hope”. This series will focus on God’s promises through the prophet Isaiah. These promises gave hope to hopeless people, but they were not immediately fulfilled. As we journey through Isaiah and look at the promises God made to His people, we will see how it is our hope for what is to come that forms us as we wait in the present moment.

Isaiah will challenge us to see that God doesn’t work according to our timeline and He certainly doesn’t work in the way that we think He should, but even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of what is happening, God is at work to fulfill His promises.

 Through Isaiah God reveals to us what we will ultimately see in the manger scene. We will see that in God’s timing, He uses the unexpected and the unimaginable to accomplish His purposes, and when we believe in a God like this, even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of things, there is always the thrill of hope in a God who is faithful to fulfill His promises.

This week we enter into the time of exile for the people of Israel. During this difficult time in which many find themselves questioning God, Isaiah gives the people a comforting message that anticipates their questions and reminds them of the hope they have in God.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                                        

Call to Worship

*Songs                                                O Come All Ye Faithful                                             -No. 193

                                                                 We Three Kings                                                    -No. 206

Kids Message

Congregational Prayer

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Advent Wreath Lighting

Advent Video Testimonial

The Word of God

*Song                                           Come Thou Long Expected Jesus                                     -No. 168

Scripture:                                               Isaiah 40:1-11; 21-31

Message                                               “A Comforting Hope”

                                                                    Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

*Song                                            Angels We Have Heard On High                                      -No. 192

*Benediction

Postlude                                       

Mission of the Month Offering Received

Offering

*Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

December Calling Team:  Please call Sue F or Liz S with any special concerns or requests.

December Mission of the Month, Eve’s House: (Ending. Violent. Encounters.) This organization provides legal services, shelter, food, and a safe place to live for women and children who have experienced domestic violence.  For more information, please visit www.eveinc.org, or if you are in need of help, please call the Crisis Line at (517) 372-5572.

Enhanced Coffee Hour:  Please join us for food and fellowship in the Family Life Center after the service this morning.

Christmas Eve Service:  Please join us Friday, December 24, at 6:00 pm., for our Christmas Eve Candlelight service. 

CONNECT/ Jr. & Sr. High Youth:  There will be no CONNECT or Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group this Wednesday, December 22, or next Wednesday, December 29, due to Winter Break.  We will resume once again on Wednesday, January 5.

Reminder from the Counting Team:  Per IRS rules, all contributions for the 2021 giving year must be received in the office by Dec. 31, or if mailed, postmarked by Dec. 31.  E-Giving donations must also be made by Dec. 31.  Thank you in advance. ~ Sheryl

Join Us Next Sunday, As We Wrap Up the Series, “A Thrill of Hope.”:  

• December 26 - Isaiah 61 "A Hope for December 26th"

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for CranHill Ranch-

Please pray for the CranHill staff that they will receive God’s guidance and hear His direction.  Please pray for their retreat groups and for their campers, asking God to soften their hearts so that when they hear the Gospel, they can respond.  Please also pray for their summer camps, and that they will have enough staff during the summer.  (If you know of a college student who is looking for a place to serve and to live out their faith, please have them fill out an application at www.cranhillranch.com/apply, or they may call  (231) 796-7669 for more information.)

There is a Prayer Request box located next to the mailboxes, just outside of the sanctuary. If you have a personal prayer request, please write it down on one of the “Prayer Request” cards provided and place it in the box. The box will be checked weekly and shared only between ministry staff and the Prayer Team.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                       Sara A. (Pregnancy), Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Wayne S., Sandi S, and Caitlin S. (Pregnancy)

If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

                           December 29- No CONNECT/ Youth Group, Winter Break

                        January 05- CONNECT/ Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm

                                           January 11- Men’s Study, 7:00 p.m.

                                 January 12- Fellowship Team Meeting, 6:30 p.m.

                                   January 15- Adult Game Night, Time TBA

December 12, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

During the season of Advent, we will be going through the book of Isaiah in a series titled, “A Thrill of Hope”. This series will focus on God’s promises through the prophet Isaiah. These promises gave hope to hopeless people, but they were not immediately fulfilled. As we journey through Isaiah and look at the promises God made to His people, we will see how it is our hope for what is to come that forms us as we wait in the present moment.

Isaiah will challenge us to see that God doesn’t work according to our timeline and He certainly doesn’t work in the way that we think He should, but even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of what is happening, God is at work to fulfill His promises.

Through Isaiah God reveals to us what we will ultimately see in the manger scene. We will see that in God’s timing, He uses the unexpected and the unimaginable to accomplish His purposes, and when we believe in a God like this, even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of things, there is always the thrill of hope in a God who is faithful to fulfill His promises.

This week we enter the world of Isaiah 11 which is a world filled with the corruption and devastation of sin. Yet, in this world, where sin has caused great destruction, God promises to intervene. God promises hope for new life and restoration through a promised Savior who will be what every other king failed to be, and who will bring what no other person could bring, freedom from sin and new life.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                                   He Is Born                                               -Collinsworth

                                                    Go Tell It On the Mountain                                          -Hayes

Call to Worship

*Songs                                                  O Praise Him                                                     -Crowder

                                                    Do You Hear What I Hear                            -Regney/ Shayne

Kids Message

Congregational Prayer

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Advent Wreath Lighting

Advent Video Testimonial

 The Word of God

*Song                                           Come Thou Long Expected Jesus                      -Wesley/ Prichard

Scripture:                                                    Isaiah 11:1-9

Message                                              “Hope Sprouts Eternal”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

*Song                                                   Unspeakable Joy   -Tomlin/ Cash/ Handel/ Watts/ Gilder

*Benediction

Postlude                                        Good Christian Friends, Rejoice               -McDonald                     

Offering

*Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

December Calling Team:  Please call Sue F. or Liz S. with any special concerns or requests.

December Mission of the Month, Eve’s House: (Ending. Violent. Encounters.) This organization provides legal services, shelter, food, and a safe place to live for women and children who have experienced domestic violence.  For more information, please visit www.eveinc.org, or if you are in need of help, please call the Crisis Line at (517) 372-5572.

Prayer Request:  Please pray for traveling mercies and protection over Mark and June as they travel too and from the Mayo Clinic this week.  Please also pray for a positive report from the doctors regarding Mark’s test results, and for complete healing in Jesus name.  Thank you.

CONNECT this Wednesday, December 15: Ashlee will be serving lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and dessert for dinner. Afterwards, the CONNECT Kids will enjoy watching a Christmas movie with popcorn, and they will be bringing home their Christmas ornaments that they made over the last 2 weeks.

Join Us Next Sunday, December 19, After the Service, for an Enhanced Coffee Hour:  Food will be provided by the Fellowship Team.

Men’s Bible Study:  Due to Holiday travel and participant schedules, the Men’s Bible Study will be meeting only once during the month of December on Tuesday, December 21, at 7:00 p.m., at the same location.  Thanks ~ Bruce and Mike.

New Greeter Schedule posted. Thanks to everyone who participated as a greeter in 2021. The new schedule for January- March has been posted, so please sign up early to get the week(s) of your choice. All volunteers are welcome! This is a great way to meet and greet both our church family and visitors.

Join Us as We Continue through the Series, “A Thrill of Hope.”:   

December 19 - Isaiah 40:1-11; 21-31 "A Comforting Hope"

December 26 - Isaiah 61 "A Hope for December 26th"

Prayers for RCA Missionaries-

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Sara A., Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Sandi S, and Caitlin S.

If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

December 20- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 21- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                          December 22- No CONNECT/ Youth Group, Winter Break

                                   December 24- Christmas Eve Service, 6:00 pm.

                           December 29- No CONNECT/ Youth Group, Winter Break

                        January 05- CONNECT/ Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm

December 5, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

During the season of Advent, we will be going through the book of Isaiah in a series titled, “A Thrill of Hope”. This series will focus on God’s promises through the prophet Isaiah. These promises gave hope to hopeless people, but they were not immediately fulfilled. As we journey through Isaiah and look at the promises God made to His people, we will see how it is our hope for what is to come that forms us as we wait in the present moment.

Isaiah will challenge us to see that God doesn’t work according to our timeline and He certainly doesn’t work in the way that we think He should, but even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of what is happening, God is at work to fulfill His promises.

Through Isaiah God reveals to us what we will ultimately see in the manger scene. We will see that in God’s timing, He uses the unexpected and the unimaginable to accomplish His purposes, and when we believe in a God like this, even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of things, there is always the thrill of hope in a God who is faithful to fulfill His promises.

This week we enter the darkness of Isaiah 9 to discover the light of hope which shines bright amidst it. Isaiah 9 helps us to see this morning what it means to truly live with hope in this world.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

Call to Worship

*Songs                                          Let Everything That Has Breathe                                     -Redman

                                                              What Child Is This                                    -An English Carol

Kids Message

Congregational Prayer

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Advent Wreath Lighting

Advent Video Testimonial

 The Word of God

*Song                                             O Come O Come Emmanuel                                        -Helmore

Scripture:                                                     Isaiah 9:1-7

Message                                           “Hope Amidst Darkness”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Mission of the Month

*Song                                                          He Reigns                                              -Furler/ Taylor              

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

*Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

December Calling Team:  Please call Sue F or Liz S with any special concerns or requests.

December Mission of the Month, Eve’s House: (Ending. Violent. Encounters.) This organization provides legal services, shelter, food, and a safe place to live for women and children who have experienced domestic violence.  For more information, please visit www.eveinc.org, or if you are in need of help, please call the Crisis Line at (517) 372-5572.

CONNECT this Wednesday, December 8: Ashlee will be serving nachos for dinner at 5:30 pm.  Afterwards, the kids will be able to tell the Christmas story with Katie using nativity pieces, and they will be continue working on their Christmas tree ornaments that they will be taking home next week on December 15.

Men’s Bible Study:  Due to Holiday travel and participant schedules, the Men’s Bible Study will be meeting only once during the month of December on Tuesday, December 21, at 7:00 p.m., at the same location.  Thanks ~ Bruce and Mike.

New Greeter Schedule posted. Thanks to everyone who participated as a greeter in 2021. The new schedule for January- March has been posted, so please sign up early to get the week(s) of your choice. All volunteers are welcome! This is a great way to meet and greet both our church family and visitors.

Message from the Prayer Team:  There is a “Prayer Request” box located on the table next to the mailboxes, just outside of the sanctuary. If you have a personal prayer request, please write it down on one of the “Prayer Request” cards provided and place it in the box. The box will be checked weekly and shared only between ministry staff and the Prayer Team unless you request otherwise.  Your prayer concerns are important to us, and all requests will be handled with extreme care and confidentiality as we pray for your situation.

Join Us as We Continue through the Series, “A Thrill of Hope.”:   

December 12 - Isaiah 11:1-9 "Hope Sprouts Eternal"

December 19 - Isaiah 40:1-11; 21-31 "A Comforting Hope"

December 26 - Isaiah 61 "A Hope for December 26th"

Save the Date:The Fellowship team will be hosting an adult game night here at Immanuel on Saturday, January 15.Please think about joining us that evening for a night of fun, and please also start thinking about a friend or two that you might like to invite.

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Sayuri & Abraham Kist-Okazaki, Asia

Please pray for Sayuri and Abraham’s continued good health as they find themselves in their late 50’s, and for their two children who are both recent college graduates working in Japan. Please also pray for vision in the congregations of Japan, that they might have an excitement and passion for evangelism, and please for the people in Japan who have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Sara A., Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Sandi S, and Caitlin S.

If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

December 15- CONNECT/ Youth Group Christmas Party, 5:30 pm.

December 16- Outreach Team Meeting, 7:00 pm.

December 20- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 21- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                          December 22- No CONNECT/ Youth Group, Winter Break

                                   December 24- Christmas Eve Service, Time TBA

                           December 29- No CONNECT/ Youth Group, Winter Break

November 28, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

 During the season of Advent, we will be going through the book of Isaiah in a series titled, “A Thrill of Hope”. This series will focus on God’s promises through the prophet Isaiah. These promises gave hope to hopeless people, but they were not immediately fulfilled. As we journey through Isaiah and look at the promises God made to His people, we will see how it is our hope for what is to come that forms us as we wait in the present moment.

Isaiah will challenge us to see that God doesn’t work according to our timeline and He certainly doesn’t work in the way that we think He should, but even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of what is happening, God is at work to fulfill His promises.

Through Isaiah God reveals to us what we will ultimately see in the manger scene. We will see that in God’s timing, He uses the unexpected and the unimaginable to accomplish His purposes, and when we believe in a God like this, even when all hope seems lost, and even when we can’t make sense of things, there is always the thrill of hope in a God who is faithful to fulfill His promises. This morning we will begin our series by looking at Isaiah 7:1-17 and the hope that we have in a God who promises to be with us, even amidst moments of devastation and destruction.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

Call to Worship

*Songs                                       My Soul Magnifies The Lord                             -Carson/ Tomlin

                                                          Revelation Song                                                        -Riddle

Kids Message

Congregational Prayer

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Advent Wreath Lighting

Advent Video Testimonial

 The Word of God

*Song                                              O Come O Come Emmanuel                           -Helmore                   

Scripture:                                                     Isaiah 7:1-17

Message                                        “Hope in a God Who is With Us”

                                                                      Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

Moment for Ministry

*Song                                                              Forever                                                          -Tomlin  

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

*Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

November Calling Team:  Please call Rick H or Sandy C with any special concerns or requests.

November Mission of the Month: Please consider choosing a tag from our Angel  tree located just outside of the sanctuary to purchase a gift for a member of a young refugee family of 4 from Afghanistan, who also have a baby on the way.  After purchasing your gift, please place it under the tree unwrapped.  Please also turn in your Angel Tree Tag, as well as your original receipt, or a copy of it, with the gift for "Charitable Contribution" tracking purposes.  No gift receipts please.  Wrapping paper, gift tags, and tape are also welcomed donations for this very important mission.

A Message from the Prayer Team:  There is a “Prayer Request” box located on the table next to the mailboxes, just outside of the sanctuary. If you have a personal prayer request, please write it down on one of the “Prayer Request” cards provided and place it in the box. The box will be checked weekly and shared only between ministry staff and the Prayer Team unless you request otherwise.  Your prayer concerns are important to us, and all requests will be handled with extreme care and confidentiality as we pray for your situation.

CONNECT this Wednesday, December 1: Ashlee will be serving breakfast for dinner: pancakes, hash browns, and fruit salad.  Afterwards, the kids will learn about how Jesus is our best Superhero, and they will begin decorating their very own Christmas tree in their Superhero area.  Each week the kids will make a beautiful ornament for their tree, and then on December 15th, they will be able to take all these ornaments home with them.  They will also learn and talk about how hard it is to wait, and there will be singing and games too! 

Staff Holiday Gifts: Can be made until Sunday, December 12: If you would like to contribute towards a  monetary Christmas gift for the ICRC staff, please enclose your gift in an envelope labeled “Staff Gift”, or you may write this on the memo line of your check, and then drop it into one of the collection plates in the sanctuary. You may also  hand it to one of the Deacons: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, or Liz S.  Please also be sure to include your envelope number for contribution credit.  The deacons will then divide the funds among the staff for their annual holiday gifts from the ICRC congregation. 

New Sermon Series Schedule:

November 28 - Isaiah 7:1-17 "Hope in a God Who is With Us"

December 5 - Isaiah 9:1-7 "Hope Amidst Darkness"

December 12 - Isaiah 11:1-9 "Hope Sprouts Eternal"

December 19 - Isaiah 40:1-11; 21-31 "A Comforting Hope"

December 26 - Isaiah 61 "A Hope for December 26th"

Save the Date:The Fellowship team will be hosting an adult game night here at Immanuel on Saturday, January 15.Please think about joining us that evening for a night of fun, and please also start thinking about a friend or two that you might like to invite.

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Maasai Outreach Mission, Africa

Please pray for the health of the Maasai people. Pray they will have access to the care they need, including prenatal care, immunizations, counseling, and other basic healthcare. 

If you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia Jackson at 663-7441. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org, or you may place a written request in the prayer box that is located next to the church mailboxes.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Sara A., Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Sandi S, and Caitlin S.

Have you or a loved one been in the hospital or have just gotten out and were told you should rest for a few days? If so, wouldn’t it be great to have a home cooked meal delivered to your house? If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

December 6- Spiritual Growth Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 6- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 7- Elder’s Meeting, 7:00 pm.

December 8- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

December 8- Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm.

December 9- Kinetic Gospel Discipleship Class, 7:00 pm.

                                        December 14- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                   December 15- CONNECT/ Youth Group Christmas Party, 5:30 pm.

November 21, 2021

Sunday, November 21, 2021

 “Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What are we as a church known for? What are we known for by our neighbors? Do people outside of the church know us for what we say we want to be known for?

 We are living in a time when the perception of the church in our country is at an all-time low. It is an often repeated phrase that the church is known more for what it is against, than for what it is for. Yet, we as a church have a mission statement and core values that we desire to be known for. The question that we must ask ourselves is: Have we succeeded in this? Are we known for what we want to be known for?  Do people who drive by our building every day know what we are for?

Today we conclude our series by looking at our core value “Doing Acts of Service,” and turning to the story of God’s people in exile to learn from the unique calling and command God that gives them in Jeremiah 29:7. God will challenge us this morning through Jeremiah to see our world and our place in it as followers of Christ in a way that brings the flourishing of His Kingdom.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                                    Sing To The King                                                       -Foote

                                                                 Life Of Praise                                                             -Hall

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

 The Word of God

*Song                                                         Worthy, Worthy                           -Vertical Worship Band

Scripture:                                                   Jeremiah 29:7          

Message                                             “Doing Acts of Service”

                                                                    Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

*Song                                                       Prince Of Peace                         -Imboden/ Rhoton                        

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Mission of the Month Offering Received

Offering

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

November Calling Team:  Please call Rick H or Sandy C with any special concerns or requests.

November Mission of the Month: Please consider choosing a tag from our Angel  tree located just outside of the sanctuary to purchase a gift for a member of a young refugee family of 4 from Afghanistan, who also have a baby on the way.  After purchasing your gift, please place it under the tree unwrapped.  Please also turn in your Angel Tree Tag, as well as your original receipt, or a copy of it, with the gift for "Charitable Contribution" tracking purposes.  No gift receipts please.  Wrapping paper, gift tags, and tape are also welcomed donations for this very important mission.

Flowers Provided By:  Julie L in loving memory of her mom Beverly’s birthday.  Beverly was also a beloved Grandma, Great Grandma, and Great-Great Grandma, who’s spirit and strength lives on in each one of us and in the lives that she touched. 

Thanksgiving Baskets After the Service:  Please join us in the Family Life Center after the service today to help assemble and deliver Thanksgiving baskets for our community. 

2022 Tithing Envelopes:  If you do not need tithing envelopes for next year, please let Stacia know in the church office by next Sunday, November 28.

Nursery News:  We are in need of volunteers to help out in the nursery during the Sunday Services.  If you are able to do this, please contact Ann H to let her know. 

Staff Holiday Gifts: Can be made until Sunday, December 12: If you would like to contribute towards a  monetary Christmas gift for the ICRC staff, please enclose your gift in an envelope labeled “Staff Gift”, or you may write this on the memo line of your check, and then drop it into one of the collection plates in the sanctuary. You may also  hand it to one of the Deacons if you would like: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, or Liz S.  Please also be sure to include your envelope number for contribution credit.  The deacons will then divide the funds among the staff for their annual holiday gifts from the ICRC congregation. 

Save the Date:The Fellowship team will be hosting an adult game night here at Immanuel on Saturday, January 15.Please think about joining us that evening for a night of fun, and please also start thinking about a friend or two that you might like to invite.

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Maasai Outreach Mission, Africa

Please pray for the health of the Maasai people. Pray they will have access to the care they need, including prenatal care, immunizations, counseling, and other basic healthcare. 

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Sara A., Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Sandi S, and Caitlin S.

Have you or a loved one been in the hospital or have just gotten out and were told you should rest for a few days? If so, wouldn’t it be great to have a home cooked meal delivered to your house? If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri M.

                                                          Save the Dates

December 1- CONNECT/ Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group , 5:30 pm.

                      December 2- Kinetic Gospel Discipleship Class, 7:00 pm.

December 6- Spiritual Growth Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 6- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

December 7- Elder’s Meeting, 7:00 pm.

November 14, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What are we as a church known for? What are we known for by our neighbors? Do people outside of the church know us for what we say we want to be known for?

We are living in a time when the perception of the church in our country is at an all-time low. It is an often repeated phrase that the church is known more for what it is against, than for what it is for. Yet, we as a church have a mission statement and core values that we desire to be known for. The question that we must ask ourselves is: Have we succeeded in this? Are we known for what we want to be known for?  Do people who drive by our building every day know what we are for?

Today, we will be looking at our church's core value of Responding to Real Needs through the lens of James 2:14-26. This passage this morning will challenge us to see how our response of faith in Christ leads us in our response to the real needs around us.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                                     Let It Rise                                                             -Davis

                                                        Power Of Your Love                                                  -Bullock

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

  The Word of God

*Song                                                  Blessed Assurance                                                    -Crosby

Scripture:                                              James 2: 14-26

Message                                        “Responding to Real Needs”

                                                                 Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

Celebrate the Lord’s Supper

Responsive Communion Thanksgiving

*Song                                                      You Are Good                                                    -Houghton

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 Wi-Fi- icrcchurch, Password goodwithG0d

ANNOUNCEMENTS

November Calling Team:  Please call Rick H. or Sandy C. with any special concerns or requests.

November Mission of the Month: We have an Angel tree set up just outside of the sanctuary with gift tags to choose from for a young refugee family of 4, who also have a baby on the way. This family had to evacuate from Afghanistan for safety reasons.  Please consider choosing a tag from the tree to purchase a gift for a member of this family.  Each tag will tell you the age and a desired gift.  After purchasing your gift, please place it under the tree unwrapped.  Please also turn in your Angel Tag, as well as your original receipt, or a copy of it, with the gift for "Charitable Contribution" tracking purposes.  No gift receipts please.  Wrapping paper, gift tags, and tape are also welcomed donations for this very important mission. Thank you in advance for helping us to bless this family and to make their Christmas a very special one this year!

Coffee and Fellowship:  We are excited to announce that we are once again offering coffee and fellowship in the Family Life Center after the services starting today!

CONNECT this Wednesday, November 17:  Join us for dinner this Wednesday, at 5:30 pm. Ashlee will be serving pizza, salad, and dessert.  Afterwards, the kids will be learning about how God is our Superhero, and about all of the miracles that He did while traveling with the Israelites in the desert.  The kids will also enjoy making Thanksgiving crafts, playing games, and they will have the opportunity to earn their “Thankful” badge for their superhero capes.

Its That Time of the Year Again: On December 1, we will be distributing the tithing envelopes to the congregation for next year. Please let Stacia know in the church office by next Sunday, November 28, if you do not need tithing envelopes for 2022. 

Nursery News:  We are in need of volunteers to help out in the nursery during the Sunday Services.  If you are able to do this, please contact Ann H. to let her know. 

Join Us Next Week as We Wrap Up the Sermon Series “Known”: 

·Sunday, November 21- “Doing Acts of Service.”  Jeremiah 29:7

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Brian and Elizabeth Bruxvoort

Pray that the children who went to Bible Camp will be strengthened and discipled to walk with the Lord.  Pray also for strong health so that we can continue to serve the Lord, and please pray for Christians to be more concerned about our walk with Jesus rather than the state of our nation. Please also pray also for Christian workers across Alaska as we prepare for the coming cold and darkness of winter, and that our family will continually seek to love the Lord our God with all of our heart.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.   

    Have you or a loved one been in the hospital or have just gotten out and were told you should rest for a few days? If so, wouldn’t it be great to have a home cooked meal delivered to your house? If you are in need of meals, or if you are willing to provide meals when needed, please contact Kerri Miller at (517) 927-9209.

                                                          Save the Dates

November 22- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

  November 23- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                   November 24- Thanksgiving Break, No Youth Group or CONNECT

                                             December 1- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                        December 1- Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm.-8:00 pm.

                           December 2- Kinetic Gospel Discipleship Class, 7:00 pm.

November 7, 2021

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                 All Creatures of our God and King/Sing Alleluia                     -No. 347

                                                             Made To Worship                         -Tomlin/ Cash/ Sharp

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

  The Word of God

*Song                                                       Revelation Song                                                      -Riddle

Scripture:                                                    John 4:1-26

Message                                            “Welcoming the Stranger”

                                                                    Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Mission of the Month

*Song                                                   Your Grace Is Enough                                     -Maher     

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

  *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

November Calling Team:  Please call Rick H or Sandy C with any special concerns or requests.

November Mission of the Month: We have an Angel tree set up just outside of the sanctuary with gift tags to choose from for a young refugee family of 4, who also have a baby on the way. This family had to evacuate from Afghanistan for safety reasons.  Please consider choosing a tag from the tree to purchase a gift for a member of this family.  Each tag will tell you who the gift is for, their age, and a desired gift.  (The families wish list is also posted on the bulletin board located just outside of the sanctuary.)  After purchasing your gift, please return it here to Immanuel unwrapped.  Please also turn in your original receipt, or a copy of it, with the gift for "Charitable Contribution" tracking purposes.  No gift receipts please.  Wrapping paper, gift tags, and tape are also welcomed donations for this very important mission. Thank you in advance for helping us to bless this family and to make their Christmas a very special one this year!

Thank You for All of the Prayers, Thoughtful Concern, and Cards During Joy’s Last Illness and After She Went Home to Jesus:  A special appreciation to all those who helped set up and serve at Joy’s memorial luncheon.  Our church family has lifted us up during this time and continues to carry us along. ~ Alv and Family

CONNECT this Wednesday, November 10:  Join us for dinner this Wednesday, at 5:30 pm., Ashlee will be serving nachos.  Afterwards, the kids will learn about Jesus’s friends Mary and Martha and why they are superheroes.  They will also talk about how much fun it is to visit and play with friends, and they will be making Stone Soup!  Miss Linda will need some help making the soup, so please have the kids bring 2 stones that fit into the palm of their hand so that they can help her out and earn their “Cooperation” badge. 

The Search for Our New Director of Music Ministry is Already Underway:  If you know of someone who might be interested in this position we encourage you to share the job posting that can be found on our website with them. The link is: https://www.icrclansing.org/new-page-85. Candidates should email their cover letter and resume to ICRCMusicSearchTeam@gmail.com no later than November 30th. 

Join Us Over the Next 2 Weeks as We Continue the Sermon Series “Known”: 

·         Sunday, November 14- “Responding to Real Needs.”  James 2: 14-26

·         Sunday, November 21- “Doing Acts of Service.”  Jeremiah 29:7

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Brian and Elizabeth Bruxvoort

Pray that the children who went to Bible Camp will be strengthened and discipled to walk with the Lord.  Pray also for strong health so that we can continue to serve the Lord, and please pray for Christians to be more concerned about our walk with Jesus rather than the state of our nation. Please also pray also for Christian workers across Alaska as we prepare for the coming cold and darkness of winter, and that our family will continually seek to love the Lord our God with all of our heart.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

November 17- CONNECT, 5:30 pm

November 18- Kinetic Gospel Class, 7:00 pm

November 21- Thanksgiving Basket Assemble and Delivery, 11:15 am

On Sunday, November 14, Pastor Matt will be preaching to us about our core value, "Responding to Real Needs in the community", and we would like to take up a collection on that day to go along with this message. 

We are asking that you bring an item or two to church with you on that Sunday, November 14, to donate to our Personal Needs Closet that we are working on putting together so that we can respond to the needs of the community that surrounds Immanuel.

 We have defined "Personal Needs" items as anything that cannot be bought with food stamps, but we are not going to be doing clothes at this time.  These items may include: 

 Toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, hairbrushes, hair products, men's and women's body wash or bar soap, shampoo and conditioner, household cleaning supplies, all-purpose cleaners, diapers, wipes, gently used or new sheets and blankets, women's sanitary items, deodorant, or anything else that you can think of that would be needed in a home but cannot be bought with stamps.  You can even purchase dollar store gift cards if you would like in denominations of $5 or $10. 

There will be a large white box to place these items, located just outside of the sanctuary, on Sunday, November 14, and we thank you in advance for your donations and for your heart to help us respond to the real needs" in our community.

October 31, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What are we as a church known for? What are we known for by our neighbors? Do people outside of the church know us for what we say we want to be known for?

We are living in a time when the perception of the church in our country is at an all-time low. It is an often repeated phrase that the church is known more for what it is against, than for what it is for. Yet, we as a church have a mission statement and core values that we desire to be known for. The question that we must ask ourselves is: Have we succeeded in this? Are we known for what we want to be known for?  Do people who drive by our building every day know what we are for?

Today, we will be looking at our church's core value of Nurturing Children and Youth through the lens of Jesus' words in Matthew 19:13-15.

  The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                           My Lighthouse                                        -Rend Collective

                                                       Feed The Fire                                        -Grooters & Beal

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

  The Word of God

*Song                                          No Longer Slaves                                          -Bethel Music

Scripture:                                     Matthew 19:14

Message                           “Nurturing Children and Youth”

                                                        Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                          

The Response to the Word

*Song                                           Trading My Sorrows                                                   -Evans

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

  *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

October Calling Team:  Please call Eric C or Harold S with any special concerns or requests.

October Mission of the Month: CWS CROP Hunger Walk. Today is the last day to contribute to this very important mission! 

Thank You for All of the Prayers, Thoughtful Concern, and Cards During Joy’s Last Illness and After She Went Home to Jesus:  A special appreciation to all those who helped set up and serve at Joy’s memorial luncheon.  Our church family has lifted us up during this time and continues to carry us along. ~ Alv and the V K Family

CONNECT this Wednesday, November 3:  Ashlee will be serving Burgers for dinner at 5:30 pm.  Afterwards, the kids will be learning about David the shepherd boy making beautiful music to God. They will also be able to touch and play real instruments, and they will be making 3 different instruments for our Praise band! 

Kinetic Gospel Discipleship Class Begins This Thursday, November 4th, at 7:00 pm.: This class will be led by Pastor Matt and will help us to discover how the Gospel of Jesus Christ empowers us to live as disciples of Christ. We will meet for 5 sessions, taking a break the week of Thanksgiving, and finishing on Thursday, December 9. To sign-up, please email Pastor Matt or you may write your name down on the sign-up sheet located on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.

Thanksgiving Baskets:  With your donations, we are able to provide Thanksgiving baskets to 54 families!  We are now in need of volunteers to help assemble and deliver the baskets on Sunday, November 21, after the service.  If you are able to help with this, please write your name down on the sign-up sheet located just outside of the sanctuary, and if you will be delivering baskets, we ask that you go in groups of 2 or 3.  Please write down the names of all people in your group on the sign-up sheet.  We are looking for 15-20 groups total to make deliveries.

The Search for Our New Director of Music Ministry is Already Underway:If you know of someone who might be interested in this position we encourage you to share the job posting that can be found on our website with them. The link is: https://www.icrclansing.org/new-page-85. Candidates should email their cover letter and resume to ICRCMusicSearchTeam@gmail.com no later than November 30th.

New Sermon Series “KNOWN”:

 Sunday, November 7: Welcoming the Stranger. John 4:1-30

 Sunday, November 14: Responding to Real Needs. James 2:14-26

 Sunday, November 21: Doing Acts of Service. Jeremiah 29:7

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Mark & Deb Wilson, Asia

Deb is strengthening church leaders through training, coaching, and mentoring. Mark teaches seminary classes and helps Cambodian churches and leaders discover, understand, and live into God’s intentions for them. Please pray for the new ministry leaders in Cambodia. May they receive the training needed to boldly grow the church in their home country. Pray that they might faithfully follow God's purposes for them in life and ministry.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

November 9- Consistory Meeting, 6:30 pm

November 9- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm

November 9- Painting with Sandi, 6:30 pm

November 10- CONNECT, 5:30 pm

.November 11- Kinetic Gospel Class, 7:00 pm

October 24, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

What are we as a church known for? What are we known for by our neighbors? Do people outside of the church know us for what we say we want to be known for?

We are living in a time when the perception of the church in our country is at an all-time low. It is an often repeated phrase that the church is known more for what it is against, than for what it is for. Yet, we as a church have a mission statement and core values that we desire to be known for. The question that we must ask ourselves is: Have we succeeded in this? Are we known for what we want to be known for?  Do people who drive by our building every day know what we are for?

Today, we will be looking at our church's mission statement through the lens of Christ's mission communicated to us in John 20:21 and in Acts 3:1-16. Through our readings from Scripture this morning we will see what it means to live our lives with the Spirit empowered energy of God's work in the world through Jesus Christ.

  The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Song                                                  Pass It On                                                -Kaiser                        

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

 The Word of God

*Song                                                   So Send I You                                                   -Peterson  

Scripture:                                             John 20:21; Acts 3:1-16

Message                                               “Kinetically Christlike”

                                                                      Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

Moment for Ministry

*Song                                          We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations                                    -Nichol

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

  *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

October Calling Team:  Please call Eric C. or Harold S. with any special concerns or requests.

October Mission of the Month: CWS CROP Hunger Walk. We still have one week left to contribute to this very important mission!  You may make a donation by placing it in the Mission of the Month offering plate located at the front of the sanctuary.  If you will be writing a check, please write CWS CROP in the memo line. 

Flowers Provided By: Don and Pat W. in celebration of their 62 years of marriage.  Don And Pat, may God keep blessing the two of you and may the love you have for each other keep growing with time.  Happy Anniversary!

Trunk-or Treat:  This Wednesday, October 27, from 6-7 pm.  If you signed up to decorate your vehicle and pass out candy, please come here to the ICRC parking lot at 5:30 pm to get a parking spot and to set up.  There is also a Facebook event created on our ICRC Facebook page to invite your family and friends! 

Discipleship Class:  Beginning Next Thursday, November 4th, at 7:00 pm., you will have the opportunity to learn more how to be a disciple through the class, “The Kinetic Gospel”. This class will be led by Pastor Matt and will help us to discover how the Gospel of Jesus Christ empowers us to live as disciples of Christ. We will meet for 5 sessions, taking a break the week of Thanksgiving, and finishing on Thursday, December 9. To sign-up, please email Pastor Matt or you may write your name down on the sign-up sheet located on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.

Thanksgiving Baskets:  With your donations, we are able to provide Thanksgiving baskets to 54 families!  We are now in need of volunteers to help assemble and deliver the baskets on Sunday, November 21, after the service.  If you are able to help with this, please write your name down on the sign-up sheet located just outside of the sanctuary, and if you will be delivering baskets, we ask that you go in groups of 2 or 3.  Please write down the names of all people in your group on the sign-up sheet.  We are looking for 15-20 groups total to make deliveries.

We Still Have 1 week to collect Personal Needs Items for the Homeless Angels/ City Rescue Mission: There are items needed specifically for the women at the City Rescue Mission, they are asking for  full size body lotion and baby wipes.  Please place items in the tub labeled “Homeless Angels” located just outside of the sanctuary.  Thank you.

Do You Like Laughter, Joy in Sharing Memories, and Playing Detective?: If so you are invited every Wednesday from 1-3 pm., or after the Connect dinner at 5:30 pm, to join us in the library to help identify the many unlabeled photos in the albums of times past. We'd like to give these photos to those who are in them, so we need your help identifying who these people are that had such good times in the years that have gone by. Our "Fall Library Cleanup" team appreciates what time you can give and any ideas that you may have to help our library serve your needs. Feel free to bring a friend to share in the fun! If you have any questions, please contact Doreen D.

New Sermon Series “KNOWN”: What are we as a church known for? What are we known for by our neighbors? Do people outside of the church know us for what we say we want to be known for? We are living in a time when the perception of the church in our country is at an all-time low. It is an often repeated phrase that the church is known more for what it is against, than for what it is for. Yet we as a church have a mission statement and core values that we desire to be known for. The question we must ask ourselves is: have we succeeded in this?

Are we known for what we want to be known for?  Do people who drive by our building every day even know what we are for? In this series we will look at what we as Immanuel want to be known for, our mission and our core values, and we will see how we must seek to be known in the greater Lansing area in this way.

  Sunday, October 24th: Kinetically Christlike John 20:21; Acts 3:1-16

Sunday, October 31: Nurturing Children and Youth. Matthew 19:14

 Sunday, November 7: Welcoming the Stranger. John 4:1-30

 Sunday, November 14: Responding to Real Needs. James 2:14-26

 Sunday, November 21: Doing Acts of Service. Jeremiah 29:7

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Mark & Deb Wilson, Asia

Deb is strengthening church leaders through training, coaching, and mentoring. Mark teaches seminary classes and helps Cambodian churches and leaders discover, understand, and live into God’s intentions for them. Please pray for the new ministry leaders in Cambodia. May they receive the training needed to boldly grow the church in their home country. Pray that they might faithfully follow God's purposes for them in life and ministry.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

November 2- Consistory Meeting, 6:30 pm

November 3- CONNECT, 5:30 pm

November 3- Fellowship Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

November 4- Kinetic Gospel Class, 7:00 pm.

October 17, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

In our busy lives it is so easy to become consumers of Jesus and His Gospel message. We come to church when we can and when we want to. We sit in the pews or stream the worship service as customers consuming church as just another product that we enjoy, but Jesus desires more for His followers. Jesus desires for the life transformation of His grace to lead us to be not just consumers of His grace, but cultivators of His grace in our everyday lives. In what we give our time to and through the priorities which shape our lives, Christ calls us to be His cultivators in this world.

In this series, using the book “Surprise the World!” written by Michael Frost as a supplement, we are looking at the 5 habits we must seek to live with as cultivators of Christ's work in the world. Today we conclude our series by looking at Luke 10:1-12 and considering how as followers of Christ, having been made to be a part of His mission, we are to now live on mission.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                                  Days Of Elijah                                                        -Mark

                                                         Love With Abandon                                             -Newsboys

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

  The Word of God

*Song                                                   Lord I need You                                                       -Maher

Scripture:                                                  Luke 10:1-12

Message                                                “Live on Mission”

                                                                  Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Mission of the Month Offering Received

*Song                                                         You Are Good                                                  -Houghton

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

  *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

October Calling Team:  Please call Eric C or Harold S with any special concerns or requests.

October Mission of the Month: CWS CROP Hunger Walk. Praise God we had 37 people participate in our ICRC CROP walk last Sunday! (27 adult walkers, 5 youth walkers, and 5 rockers!)  We still have 2 Sundays left to contribute to this very important mission to help end hunger in our community and around the world.  If you would still like to make a donation to CROP, you may do so by placing it in the Mission of the Month offering plate located at the front of the sanctuary.  If you will be writing a check, please write CWS CROP in the memo line. 

Flowers Provided By: Fred and Kandy H in celebration of Ian’s birthday.  Ian, may you have many heavenly blessings on your special day!

CONNECT this Wednesday, October 20: Join us this Wednesday for a free family dinner at 5:30 pm.  Ashlee will be serving lasagna, garlic bread, salad, and dessert.  Afterwards, we will be doing a “Pumpkin Night” with the kids, so have them bring a friend, wear something orange, and come enjoy some fun with crafts and games! 

Trunk-or Treat:  This year we will be hosting our annual “Trunk-or-Treat” event for the community on Wednesday, October 27, from 6-7 pm.  We are looking for candy donations for this event, and volunteers to decorate their vehicles and pass out candy.  If you can donate candy, please drop it off to the church office, or you can place it in the tub located just outside of the sanctuary.  If you will be decorating your vehicle and passing out candy, please show up to the church at 5:30pm. to get a parking space and to get set-up.

Southern Gospel Concert Friday, October 29, at South Church:  Tribute Quartet and Jim & Melissa Brady will be performing.  Tickets are $15.  Please talk to Sheryl E at church or text her if you are interested in going. 

Beginning Thursday, November 4, at 7:00 pm, Pastor Matt Will be Leading a Class Called “The Kinetic Gospel”:  This class will help us discover how the Gospel of Jesus Christ empowers us to live as disciples of Christ.  We will meet weekly on Thursday nights at 7:00 pm. for 5 sessions, taking a break the week of Thanksgiving, and finishing on Thursday, December 9.  To sign-up, please email Pastor Matt, or you may sign-up on the bulletin board located just outside of the sanctuary.

A Little Pumpkin is on the Way: Join us for a baby shower in honor of Caitlin S, on Saturday, November 6, at 11:00 am.  The shower will be in the Family Life Center here at Immanuel.  Caitlin is registered at babylist.com. 

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for Our ICRC Search Team- Please be praying for Joey South, Dave South, Kelly Johnson, Karla Ter Haar, Jennifer Blanck, Marcia Jackson, and Pastor Matt Lee as they begin their search for a new Worship Director here at Immanuel.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

October 26- Deacon’s Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                              October 26- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                                           October 27- Trunk-or-Treat, 6:00 pm.

                               October 28- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                             October 28- Outreach Team Meeting, 7:00 pm.

October 31- Assembling Packages for Homeless Angels, Following the Service

October 10, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

In our busy lives it is so easy to become consumers of Jesus and His Gospel message. We come to church when we can and when we want to. We sit in the pews or stream the worship service as customers consuming church as just another product that we enjoy, but Jesus desires more for His followers. Jesus desires for the life transformation of His grace to lead us to be not just consumers of His grace, but cultivators of His grace in our everyday lives. In what we give our time to and through the priorities which shape our lives, Christ calls us to be His cultivators in this world.

 In this series, using the book “Surprise the World!” written by Michael Frost as a supplement, we are looking at the 5 habits we must seek to live with as cultivators of Christ's work in the world. Today we look at Luke 10:38-42 to see how the regular habit of learning about Jesus helps us grow in our love and service to Him and for our neighbors.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                             I Wanna Be Washed                                               -Spiritual

                                                        Power Of Your Love                                                 -Bullock

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

  The Word of God

*Song                                                Worthy, Worthy                -Vertical Church Band                                

Scripture:                                            Luke 10:38-42

Message                                             “Love and Learn”

                                                              Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

*Song                                                   Everywhere That I Go                                  -Houghton                

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

October Calling Team:  Please call Eric C or Harold S with any special concerns or requests.

October Mission of the Month: Today is the day for ICRC’s CROP Hunger Walk. We will start here at Immanuel at 10:45 am. with an announcement and a prayer, and then either head out into the neighborhood to walk or get ready to rock for CROP. There will be a tent set up at the far end of the parking lot for the "Rockers”, and for the "Walkers", please use your printed maps and the signs posted along the route with arrows to follow for direction.  We will finish the service with the benediction and a prayer when we return, and then enjoy some cookies and refreshments afterwards.  Thank you for joining us today to continue the fight against the challenges of disease, disaster, displacement, and other concerns that leave people hungry.

Flowers Provided By: Carrie B in celebration of her granddaughter Cora’s birthday and in remembrance of her mom, Sandy F’s birthday. Cora may God’s awesome blessings be upon you this day, and Sandy, we send birthday wishes to you in heaven, carried upon a prayer, to the place where you are now, with sweet, tender loving care.   

CONNECT This Wednesday, October 13: This Wednesday, the kids will be learning about Esther, and how God has a plan for us. They will learn about never giving up, and they will be celebrating a new holiday called Purim.  Join us for a family dinner beforehand at 5:30pm, and have the kids bring a friend to come join in the fun!

ICRC Bonfire Night, this Friday, October 15, from 7-9 pm.:  We look forward to a great time singing songs, roasting marshmallows for smores, and enjoying fellowship with our church family around the fire!  Please bring your own chairs or a blanket to sit on, and feel free to invite a friend.  Hope to see you here!

Trunk-or Treat:  This year we will be hosting our annual “Trunk-or-Treat” event for the community on Wednesday, October 27, from 6-7 pm.  We are looking for candy donations for this event, and volunteers to decorate their vehicles and pass out candy.  If you can donate candy, please drop it off to the church office, or you can give it to Joey S, and if you will be decorating your vehicle and passing out candy, please show up to the church at 5:30pm. to get a parking space and to get set-up.

Beginning Thursday, November 4, at 7:00 pm, Pastor Matt Will be Leading a Class Called “The Kinetic Gospel”:  This class will help us discover how the Gospel of Jesus Christ empowers us to live as disciples of Christ.  We will meet weekly on Thursday nights at 7:00 pm. for 5 sessions, taking a break the week of Thanksgiving, and finishing on Thursday, December 9.  To sign-up, please email Pastor Matt, or you may sign-up on the bulletin board located just outside of the sanctuary.

Collection for Homeless Angels: The Outreach Team is taking a collection to support Homeless Angels through the month of October. Homeless Angels is a homeless shelter located at 3216 W. Main St., Lansing, MI. The items that they are in need of are listed below. Please bring them to the church by October 31. Also, we are asking for your help on that Sunday to assemble individual packages of these items. Please consider staying after the service on October 31.

• Twin Size bedding X-Long

• New or gently used sheets, blankets, and comforters

• Laundry Soap

• Full size body wash

• Men’s and Women’s deodorant

• Toothpaste

• Paper Plates, paper bowls, paper towels

• Toilet Paper

  Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

  Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for Our ICRC Search Team- Please be praying for Joey South, Dave South, Kelly Johnson, Karla Ter Haar, Jennifer Blanck, Marcia Jackson, and Pastor Matt Lee as they begin their search for a new Worship Director here at Immanuel.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

October 18- Spiritual Growth Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                   October 19- Creative Worship Meeting, 4:00 pm.

                                                October 20, CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                               October 22-24- Youth Fall Retreat, Cran Hill Ranch

                                         October 26- Deacon’s Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                             October 26- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                                           October 27- Trunk-or-Treat, 6:00 pm.

October 3, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

In our busy lives it is so easy to become consumers of Jesus and His Gospel message. We come to church when we can and when we want to. We sit in the pews or stream the worship service as customers consuming church as just another product that we enjoy, but Jesus desires more for His followers. Jesus desires for the life transformation of His grace to lead us to be not just consumers of His grace, but cultivators of His grace in our everyday lives. In what we give our time to and through the priorities which shape our lives, Christ calls us to be His cultivators in this world.

In this series, using the book “Surprise the World!” written by Michael Frost as a supplement, we are looking at the 5 habits we must seek to live with as cultivators of Christ's work in the world. Today we look at Luke 5:15-16 to see how the regular habit of listening prayer can be a catalyst for our mission to serve our neighbors.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                

*Songs                                        All Creatures of Our God and King                          -No. 347                                          

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

 The Word of God

*Song                                               Open the Eyes of My Heart                                          -Baloche

                                                               Lord, I Need You                                                     -Maher

Scripture:                                                   Luke 5: 15-16   

Message                                                     “Listen First”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Mission of the Month

*Song                                         Sing to the King/ Sing, Sing, Sing            -Foote/Tomlin          

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

October Calling Team:  Please call Eric C or Harold S with any special concerns or requests.

October Mission of the Month: CWS CROP Hunger Walk.  Join us next Sunday, October 10, for ICRC’s CROP Hunger Walk. The service will begin at 10:00 am, but will end early, after the message, around 10:45am. We will then get ready to walk or rock for CROP at that time.  We will start here at Immanuel with an announcement and a prayer, and then head out into the neighborhood with our maps, our signs, and our enthusiasm! The walk is about 1 mile long. If you plan on rocking instead, please bring your own chair.  It does not have to be an actual rocking chair; a camp chair is fine.  There will be a tent set up at the far end of the parking lot for the "Rockers”, and for the "Walkers", we will have printed maps and signs posted along the route with arrows to follow for direction.  We will finish the service with the benediction and a prayer when we return, and then enjoy some cookies and refreshments afterwards.  You may raise money for CROP by asking your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors to support your walk with a donation.  To get a donation envelope, please see Marcia J.  You may also contribute to CROP by placing a check in the offering plate here at church for the Mission of the Month, or you may mail it to the church office.

Flowers Provided By: Joe C in honor of Michelle’s birthday on October 7.  Michelle may God’s grace be with you and may His love surround you on this special day and always.

Thanksgiving Baskets:  Today is the last day to purchase a Thanksgiving basket for a family in need. The cost of each basket is $40 and will include the following items:  Turkey, Stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, rolls, pie, and more. If you would like to purchase a basket for a family, please sign-up on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary. Payments are due at this time and can be placed in the collection plate located at the front of the sanctuary.  If paying by check, please write “Thanksgiving Baskets” in the Memo line.

CONNECT This Wednesday, October 6: This Wednesday, the kids will be learning about how God makes us brave and about standing up for what is right.  They will also be making prayer pillows.  Join us for a family dinner beforehand at 5:30pm, and have the kids bring a friend to join in the fun!

You are Invited to a Bonfire Here at ICRC, on Friday, October 15, from 7-9 pm.:  We look forward to a great time singing songs, roasting marshmallows for smores, and enjoying fellowship with our church family around the fire!  Please bring your own chairs or a blanket to sit on, and feel free to invite a friend.  Hope to see you here! 

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Mission Partners of India

Pray for donors to provide scholarships for students of all ages to continue their education at the Nursery School and English School.  Pray for the safety, encouragement, and provision of our co-workers in India during an intense time of persecution and unrest.  Pray for families that rely on the village gathering places, and for funding to continue this development, and for individuals, families, and communities to be empowered with purpose so that they can rise above poverty.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

                                             October 12- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                                           October 13- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                                   October 14- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                      October 15- All Church Bonfire, 7-9 pm.

                         October 17- Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30-7:30 pm.

                               October 18- Spiritual Growth Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                           October 20, CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

Sending prayer for our city and our neighborhoods

Written By: Lee Hardy (Reformed Worship)

 Lord God, as we go to our neighborhoods now and in this coming week,

by the power and promise of Your Holy Spirit, open our ears

to hear what You are saying to us,

in the things that happen to us,

and in the people we meet.

Open our eyes

to see the needs of the people around us.

Open our hands

to do our work well, to help when help is needed.

Open our lips

to tell others the good news of Jesus

and bring comfort and laughter to other people.

Open our minds

to discover new truth about You and our world.

Open our hearts

to love You and our neighbors

as You have loved us in Jesus.

Let us go forth in the name of Christ.

Thanks be to God.

September 26, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

In our busy lives it is so easy to become consumers of Jesus and His Gospel message. We come to church when we can and when we want to. We sit in the pews or stream the worship service as customers consuming church as just another product that we enjoy, but Jesus desires more for His followers. Jesus desires for the life transformation of His grace to lead us to be not just consumers of His grace, but cultivators of His grace in our everyday lives. In what we give our time to and through the priorities which shape our lives, Christ calls us to be His cultivators in this world.

In this series, using the book “Surprise the World!” written by Michael Frost as a supplement, we are looking at the 5 habits we must seek to live with as cultivators of Christ's work in the world. Today we look at Luke 19:1-10 to see how Christ can use our mealtimes to further the work of His grace in the lives of others. 

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love                        -Scholtes

                                                           Reach Out and Touch                                               -Brown

                                                     What a Friend We Have in Jesus                                   -Converse

*Songs                                                     Those Who Trust                                                   -Chaffer

                                                            I Will Offer Up My Life                                            -Redman

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

The Word of God

*Song                                                             Hungry                                                              -Scott  

Scripture:                                                    Luke 19:1-10

Message                                      “Feeding Others in Body and Soul”

                                                                    Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

Moment for Ministry

*Song                                                               Today                                                -Doerksen/Gage             

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                      

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

September Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

September Mission of the Month: No Senior Without Christmas: TRIAD will be filling 400 boxes with household supplies, non-perishable food, and holiday cheer to be delivered by law enforcement and fire personnel, to needy, older adults living in the tri-county region of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties.

Flowers Provided By: Dean and Marcia Jackson.

CONNECT This Wednesday, September 29:  You are invited to join us each week on Wednesday Evenings for a free family meal beginning at 5:30 pm, and a lesson plan and activities to follow for the kids!  The CONNECT Kids theme for September through December is Superheroes.  Last week the kids learned how to be a good Samaritan and to help those in need.  We also provide opportunities for the kids to play games, do crafts, and earn awards, so bring the family, invite your friends and neighbors, and join in the fun!

Dave and the Kids Would Like to Thank You for Your Support, Cards and Prayers As We Are Coming to Grips With the Passing of Jodi:  Also, thank you all who helped out at the memorial service and luncheon. We are very pleased with how everything went.

Thank You So Much for the Continued Prayers:  Our church family is truly a blessing to us.~ Mark and June.

Thanksgiving Baskets:  We will provide Thanksgiving baskets once again to families in need this year.  The cost of each basket is $40 and will include the following items:  Turkey, Stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, rolls, pie, and more. If you would like to purchase a basket for a family, please sign-up on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary by Sunday, October 3.  Payments will be due at that time.  You may place your payment in the collection plate during the Sunday service times, if paying by check, please write “Thanksgiving Baskets” in the Memo line.

Join Us After the Service on Sunday, October 10, for ICRC’s CROP Hunger Walk: We will be walking right here in the neighborhood that surrounds us as we continue to fight against the challenges of disease, disaster, displacement, and other concerns that leave people hungry. If you would like to walk or rock for CROP that day, please sign up on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary. You may raise money for CROP by asking your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors to support your walk with a donation.  To get a donation envelope, please see Marcia J. CROP will also be our Mission of the Month for October.

You are Invited to a Bonfire Here at ICRC, Friday, October 15, from 7-9 pm.:  We look forward to a great time singing songs, roasting marshmallows for smores, and enjoying fellowship with our church family around the fire!  Please bring your own chairs or a blanket to sit on.  Hope to see you here! 

Handyman Service Ministry- We have stepped out in faith and introduced a new “Handyman” service to our community provided by the members of ICRC.  So far we have offered the following services:

• Repairs done around the house

• Repairs to equipment

• Yard clean up

• Painting

• Housecleaning

If you are particularly skilled in one of these areas, or in an area that we have not listed here and would be willing to be added to our list of people to call when somebody is in need, please write your name down, on the “Handyman” sign-up sheet that is located on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.  If you would like to know more about this ministry, please contact Viv M from the Outreach Team.  Thank you.

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Ashlee W, Emily W, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Denise Kingdom Grier, Africa

There are thousands of children in Botshabelo, Africa who do not have a family that can support them. Denise works to keep vulnerable children in their own homes and to place orphans into loving foster or adoptive families. Denise also works with the Setshabelo Family and Child Services staff to raise awareness about family-based care and to establish family and child support ministries with area churches. Please pray for Denise’s ministry to continue and for the children of Botshabelo.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

                                             October 6- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                                 October 10- CROP Hunger Walk, 11:15 am.

                                          October 12- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                                            October 13- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                                   October 14- Prayer Team Meeting, 6:30 pm.

                                      October 15- All Church Bonfire, 7-9 pm.

Sending prayer for our city and our neighborhoods

Written By: Lee Hardy (Reformed Worship)

 Lord God, as we go to our neighborhoods now and in this coming week,

by the power and promise of Your Holy Spirit, open our ears

to hear what You are saying to us,

in the things that happen to us,

and in the people we meet.

Open our eyes

to see the needs of the people around us.

Open our hands

to do our work well, to help when help is needed.

Open our lips

to tell others the good news of Jesus

and bring comfort and laughter to other people.

Open our minds

to discover new truth about You and our world.

Open our hearts

to love You and our neighbors

as You have loved us in Jesus.

Let us go forth in the name of Christ.

Thanks be to God.

September 19, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

In our busy lives it is so easy to become consumers of Jesus and His Gospel message. We come to church when we can and when we want to. We sit in the pews or stream the worship service as customers consuming church as just another product that we enjoy, but Jesus desires more for His followers. Jesus desires for the life transformation of His grace to lead us to be not just consumers of His grace, but cultivators of His grace in our everyday lives. In what we give our time to and through the priorities which shape our lives, Christ calls us to be His cultivators in this world.

 In this series, using the book “Surprise the World!”  by Michael Frost as a supplement, we are looking at the 5 habits we must seek to live with as cultivators of Christ's work in the world. Today we will look at Matthew 5:13-16 and see how Christ calls us to bless others as He has blessed us.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                         I Sing the Mighty Power of God                        -Watts/ Raney

*Songs                                                        O Praise Him                                                   -Crowder

                                                                  You Are Good                                                 -Houghton

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids Message

Installation of New Consistory Members

The Word of God

*Song                                                     Be Thou My Vision                            -Ballad/Ash         

Scripture:                                                Matthew 5:13-15

Message                                            “Blessed to Be a Blessing”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

*Song                                                            Lifesong                                                               -Hall   

*Benediction                           

Postlude                                       Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee                                  -Albert Travis

Mission of the Month Offering Received

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

September Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

September Mission of the Month: No Senior Without Christmas: This year, in order to meet increased demand, TRIAD will fill 400 boxes with household supplies, non-perishable food, and holiday cheer. The boxes are delivered to needy, older adults living in the tri-county region of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. Each box is delivered by uniformed public safety personnel, including law enforcement and fire personnel.

Flowers Provided By:  Jennifer B, “For of both of my kiddos birthdays, Angel is  23 and Esperanza will be 13.” “They are my heart that beats outside my chest, they keep me in check and trying to be the best example that I can be for them.  They are also the reason for my wrinkles and gray hairs. Lol!  

Installation of New Consistory Members:  Congratulations to  Harold S will be installed as ICRC’s new Elder today, and Liz S who will be installed as our new Deacon.  Please be in prayer for them as they begin their new positions. We would also like to thank Marcia J who will be rotating off of the Elders, and Julie L from the Deacons, for all of their hard work and dedication to this church.

Our Weekly CONNECT Program Begins This Wednesday, September 22:  Please join us at 5:30 pm for free family dinner.  The kids will then join together after dinner for a short lesson and fun activities.  The theme for CONNECT Kids from September through December will be Superheroes!

We Would Like to Offer Life Skill Classes for Adults and Parents on Wednesday nights:  If you have a special skill or talent that you would be willing to teach to a small group of adults on Wednesday nights during CONNECT, for about an hour, please contact Vivienne M to let her know.  Viv's information is in the church directory, or you may contact Stacia in the office to pass that information along.

ICRC DOES IT AGAIN!  In an incredible display of support, we collected the following for the Judson Clothing Closet: 18 pair of pants/leggings; 38 pair of socks; 61 shirts/sweaters/hoodies; 33 sports bras and 282 pair of underwear. There was also over $1600 donated for new clothing purchases. The clothing has been delivered in time for the September back-to-school appointments. Thank you for your donations and prayers.

Our Heartfelt Thank You to All of You That Have Contributed to the AV Project to Enhance Our Video and Audio Worship Experience:  We have received more than $30,000 in contributions! Praise God! It's not too late, however, if you want to contribute to this worthy cause. We will continue to accept any and all gifts. To date, the components have been ordered and we're looking at a mid to late October delivery and installation time frame. We'll let you know if this changes. Again, thank you.

CWS CROP Hunger Walk:  Sunday, October 10.  This year we will be walking together as a church right here in the neighborhood that surrounds Immanuel!  We have decided to do this immediately following the service that Sunday.  We will have signs made to carry and show the community why we are walking, to help end hunger, and the walk will only be about a mile long.  Pastor Matt has mapped directions for our walk through the neighborhood that we will share with you very soon, or if you would rather sit in a rocking chair and rock instead, you may do that too.  We will have rocking chairs available underneath the entrance canopy in the parking lot. 

If you plan on walking or rocking for CROP that day, please sign your name on the sign-up sheet that Marcia J has placed on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.

CROP has also offered a "Youth Team" challenge once again, so if we have at least 3 or more youth walking with us, raising at least $250 or more, then CROP will give another $125 as a credit towards the amount raised by our congregation!

CROP is also our Mission of the Month for October:  If you will be making a monetary donation to the CROP Hunger Walk, please place it in the offering baskets during the Sunday Services during the month of October, and if you will be writing a check, please make it out to ICRC, with CWS CROP written in the memo line.  You may also raise money for CROP like we did in years past by asking your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors to support your walk with a donation.  If you would like to do that, please contact Marcia Jackson, and she will give you an envelope.

Thanksgiving Baskets:  We would like to provide Thanksgiving baskets once again to families in need this year.  The cost of each basket is $40 and will include the following items:  Turkey, Stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, rolls, pie, and more. If you would like to purchase a basket to provide for a family in need this year, please write your name down on the sign-up sheet located on the bulletin board just outside of the sanctuary.  Please also include the number of baskets that you would like to purchase. 

The Deadline to Sign Up to purchase a Thanksgiving Basket is Sunday, October 3:  Payments will be due at that time.  Please make your payments by mailing them directly to the church office located at 3200 Delta River Dr., Lansing MI, 48906, or you may place them in the collection plate during the Sunday service times. If you are paying by check, please write “Thanksgiving Baskets” in the memo line. 

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Mike J, Harold S., Liz S, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Denise Kingdom Grier, Africa

There are thousands of children in Botshabelo, Africa who do not have a family that can support them. Denise works to keep vulnerable children in their own homes and to place orphans into loving foster or adoptive families. Denise also works with the Setshabelo Family and Child Services staff to raise awareness about family-based care and to establish family and child support ministries with area churches. Please pray for Denise’s ministry to continue and for the children of Botshabelo.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

                                          September 28- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

                                            September 29- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                                 September 30- Outreach Team Meeting, 7:00 pm.

October 3- Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group, 5:30 pm

Sending prayer for our city and our neighborhoods

Written By: Lee Hardy (Reformed Worship)

 Lord God, as we go to our neighborhoods now and in this coming week,

by the power and promise of Your Holy Spirit, open our ears

to hear what You are saying to us,

in the things that happen to us,

and in the people we meet.

Open our eyes

to see the needs of the people around us.

Open our hands

to do our work well, to help when help is needed.

Open our lips

to tell others the good news of Jesus

and bring comfort and laughter to other people.

Open our minds

to discover new truth about You and our world.

Open our hearts

to love You and our neighbors

as You have loved us in Jesus.

Let us go forth in the name of Christ.

Thanks be to God.

September 12, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

"Who is my neighbor?" This is the question the expert in the law asks of Jesus in today's passage. However, I find that Jesus, after telling the parable of the Good Samaritan, leads us to the question He should have asked, and that we should ask ourselves, "How am I to be a neighbor to others?" In this famous parable we see not only who our neighbors are, but how Christ calls us to meet the needs of our neighbors by putting their needs ahead of our own.

 This morning we will see that it is the beautiful story of the Gospel of Jesus Christ that empowers us to love our neighbors as Christ loves each of us. May we be challenged today to ask God in prayer, not who our neighbors are, but what are the needs of our neighbors that He is calling us to meet?

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                          

*Songs                                                      Love the Lord                                               -Brewster 

                                                          How Great is Our God                    -Tomlin/Reeves/Cash

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids

The Word of God

*Song                                                           Sanctuary                                       -Thompson/ Scruggs

Scripture:                                                  Luke 10:25-37                           

Message                                                 “Neighbors First”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

 Celebrate the Lord’s Supper

Responsive Communion Thanksgiving

*Song                                                           He Reigns                                                -Furler/ Taylor

*Benediction                           

Postlude

Offering

The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

September Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

September Mission of the Month: No Senior Without Christmas: This year, in order to meet increased demand, TRIAD will fill 400 boxes with household supplies, non-perishable food, and holiday cheer. The boxes are delivered to needy, older adults living in the tri-county region of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. Each box is delivered by uniformed public safety personnel, including law enforcement and fire personnel.

Flowers Provided By:  Kandy H in celebration of Fred’s birthday on Monday, September 13.  Fred may God always provide you the most precious things in life:  Health, love, joy, peace, and prosperity.  Happy Birthday!

Please Pray for Mark and June B as They Travel to Mayo for Mark's Checkup:  Please pray for traveling mercies as well as a good report from Mark’s doctors. Psalm 121:7-8, “The Lord will keep you from all harm – He will watch over your life; The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore”. Amen.

The Burcham Life Group is Resuming In Person Bible Study After the Service Today:  We will be discussing the book “Surprise the World: The Five Habits of Highly Missional People”, written by Michael Frost.  This study parallels Pastor Matt's sermon messages.  We will also be discussing fellowship and ministry opportunities for this fall.  Come check us out, new members are always welcome! 

CONNECT Kickoff: Join us this Wednesday, September 15, from 5:30-7:00 pm for a family dinner and kids activities.  This will be our last summer CONNECT, and our kickoff to our Weekly Fall CONNECT program that begins on Wednesday, September 22!  The theme for September through December will be Bible Superheroes!

Installation of New Consistory Members:  Next Sunday, September 19, Harold S will be installed as ICRC’s new Elder, and Liz S will be installed as our new Deacon.  Please be in prayer for them as they begin their new positions. We would also like to thank Marcia J who will be rotating off of the Elders, and Julie L from the Deacons, for all of their hard work and dedication to this church.

CWS CROP Hunger Walk:  In 2021, we will continue to fight against the challenges of disease, disaster, displacement, and other concerns that leave people hungry. Hunger is one of the greatest injustices facing our world, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Ending hunger is possible, and we can help make it happen. Please be looking forward to joining ICRC’s CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, October 10, after the service, to help raise funds that will take us one step closer to ending hunger once and for all! More information is to come, so please be watching for it in future bulletins.

New Sermon Series: “Cultivators”: (September 12 - October 17)

It is so easy for the church, and the Gospel message that we believe, to become another good or service that we consume. It also easy for us as Christians to become consumers of the Christian faith, but Christ desires for us to be much more than just consumers, and to do more than simply consume the Gospel. Christ calls us to be Cultivators of the Gospel in our lives and in our communities.

As followers of Christ in this world we have been called to participate in His mission by seeking to cultivate the good news of Jesus Christ in the places He sends us to throughout the week.

Using the book titled, “Surprise the World! 5 Habits of Highly Missional People”, written by Michael Frost, we will begin this new series titled, “Cultivators”, and we will be looking at the 5 habits of cultivators who seek to see their neighbors and communities transformed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sunday, September 12 - Neighbors First

Luke 10:25-37

 Sunday, September 19 - Habit #1: Blessed to be a Blessing.

Matthew 5:13-15

 Sunday, September 26 - Habit #2: Feeding Others in Body and Soul.

Luke 19:1-10

 Sunday, October 3 - Habit #3: Listen First.

Luke 5:16

 Sunday, October 10 - Habit #4: Love and Learn.

Luke 10:25-28, 38-42

 Sunday, October 17 - Habit #5: Live on Mission.

Luke 10:1-24

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Marcia J, Mike J, Julie L, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Yakuv Gurung, Asia

Yakuv Gurung is called to train and raise local leaders and church planters to reach the Nepali-speaking people in Nepal and in the U.S. Yakuv works with RCA partner Jibit Asha International (JAI) and local planters in Nepal to make strategies to reach their communities. The goal is to plant 50 churches in the next five years in Nepal and to form a Reformed network of churches affiliated with the RCA in the U.S.  Please pray for the church planters to reach unreached people, and that they will get the resources that they need for this ministry.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.       

                                                          Save the Dates

                     September 22- CONNECT, 5:30 pm.

                       September 23- Joy Vander Kolk’s Memorial Service, 11:00 am.

                                             September 23- Prayer Team Meeting

                                            September 28- Men’s Study, 7:00 pm.

September 5, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

This week's message was supposed to be on Psalm 37 and the question was going to be, "What is God's will for my life?" However, I felt the Spirit leading me in a different direction than I had planned, so today we will be looking at Psalm 44:17-26 instead, and asking the question, "How should we deal with our grief?"

 Grief is a part of life in this fallen world. Scripture never talks about hardships as being something we might experience, but rather that we will experience grief and sorrow in this world. So, it is important that we should consider the question, “How are we to deal with our grief?”, when we find ourselves grieving. Though we are at times not good at dealing with our grief, this morning scripture gives us the gift of lament to bring our grief before our faithful God and find healing and redemption.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                          

*Song                                                       Holy, Holy, Holy                                                     -Heber

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids

 The Word of God

*Song                                           Lifesong/Singing in the Victory                        -Hall/Austin Stone

Scripture:                                                 Psalm 44:17-26                

Message                                     “What are we to do with our grief?”

                                                                    Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

Sacrament of Baptism                       Braylon and Elijah Alford

Mission of the Month Presentation

*Song                                                         Great Things                                        -Wickham/Myrin

*Benediction                           

Postlude

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

September Calling Team:  Please call Mike J or Carrie B with any special concerns or requests.

September Mission of the Month: No Senior Without Christmas. This year, in order to meet increased demand, TRIAD will fill 400 boxes with household supplies, non-perishable food, and holiday cheer. The boxes are delivered to needy, older adults living in the tri-county region of Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties. Each box is delivered by uniformed public safety personnel, including law enforcement and fire personnel.

CONNECT Kickoff: Join us from 5:30-7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 15, for a family dinner and kids activities.  This will be our last summer CONNECT, and our kickoff to our Weekly Fall CONNECT program that begins on Wednesday, September 22!  The theme for September through December will be Bible Superheroes!

Thank You for All of Your Prayers: I had another great check-up.  Thank you also for caring, and for being our forever friends. ~ Sandi Shults

A Grand Thank You: For the cards, calls, and prayers during my time of healing.  Also, a big thank you to the small group that visited me on my birthday, how awesome!, and a special thank you to Julie Lewis for being with me through my chemo treatments.  Please continue to pray for me as I have come to many changes this year.  God bless you all~ Kathy Glisson 

CWS CROP Hunger Walk:  Did you know that 1.1 billion people in developing countries live on an income of $1 a day or less, and that every day, more than 16,000 children die from hunger related causes? That is about 1 child every 5 seconds.  The CROP Hunger Walk will be our Mission of the Month for October again here at ICRC, and we will be walking together as a church on Sunday, October 10th, so let’s start thinking about this mission today and be praying about how we can stand with Church World Services, and impoverished people around the world, to envision a way to reach a better future.

Audio/Visual Improvements Project:  A correction from last week’s bulletin, there is no deadline to donate to this project. You may give at any time by placing a check in an envelope titled "AV gift" and return it to the office via the offering plate or through the mail.  Thank you kindly for your consideration.

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Marcia J, Mike J, Julie L, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Yakuv Gurung, Asia

Yakuv Gurung is called to train and raise local leaders and church planters to reach the Nepali-speaking people in Nepal and in the U.S. Yakuv works with RCA partner Jibit Asha International (JAI) and local planters in Nepal to make strategies to reach their communities. The goal is to plant 50 churches in the next five years in Nepal and to form a Reformed network of churches affiliated with the RCA in the U.S.  Please pray for the church planters to reach unreached people, and that they will get the resources that they need for this ministry.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.                                                                                    

August 29, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

Thank you for joining us today as we stand united in Christ with Siloam Nepali Church, sharing the same heart and mind as we worship together.

Pastor Matt will be leading our study today in Galatians 3:26-29, teaching us what it means to be “United in Christ.”  Every born-again believer who is saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ is incorporated into the body of Christ, the church. So, all Christians are united in Christ by definition because they are all united with Christ through salvation. We are called to live out this unity by loving, serving, respecting, and forgiving one another, and we are to view and treat other born-again believers in a manner that reflects the actual oneness that our Savior has achieved for us.

The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                          

*Songs                                                    Raise a Hallelujah                                    -Helsers/Stevens

                                                                 Waymaker                                                          -Sinach

Prayer Led by Pastor Chandra

The Lord’s Prayer in Both Nepali and English

 The Word of God

*Song                                                       Heart of Worship        (Siloam Praise Team)       -Redman

Scripture:                                                Galatians 3:26-29          

Message                                                 “United in Christ”

                                                                   Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

 The Response to the Word

*Song                                                         Amazing Grace                                                  -Newton

*Benediction                           

Postlude

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

 ANNOUNCEMENTS

August Calling Team:  Please call Sue F. or Julie L with any special concerns or requests.

August Mission of the Month: Judson Love Clothing Center is in need of all children's clothing starting with size 4, but especially needed are sports bras sizes S – XL, and men’s/boy’s boxers sizes S- XL.  There is a box for donations located just outside of the sanctuary, or you may make a monetary donation towards this very worthy cause.

CONNECT Kickoff: Join us from 5:30-7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 15, for a family dinner and kids activities.  This will be our last summer CONNECT, and our kickoff to our Weekly Fall CONNECT program that begins on Wednesday, September 22!  The theme for September through December will be Bible Superheroes!

Ministry Team Leaders:  Please join us for our next 90-Day Goals God Dreams Meeting on Thursday, September 16, at 7:00 pm., to discuss our continued vision for Immanuel Community Reformed Church.

Greeters Needed: We are starting a new system for Greeter sign-up.  On the bulletin board you will find a sign-up sheet which gives you the flexibility to sign up by specific weeks through December.  We need 2 greeters per week so you can volunteer as a couple or as an individual.  After signing up, you will receive a short description of duties in your mailbox, and a reminder will appear in the bulletin the week prior.

If You are Interested in Supporting Our Audio/Visual Improvements Project:  you may put a check in an envelope titled "AV gift" and return it to the office via the offering plate or through the mail.  The deadline for donations is Sunday, September 5. Thank you for your consideration.

ICRC Members and Visitors: Here at Immanuel, we believe it is our calling as Christians to grow together in the knowledge and example of Jesus Christ. Our primary way of doing this is through our Life Group ministry in which members and guests have the opportunity to be connected with a group of fellow Christians for the purpose of growing together in Christ. Some of our Life Groups have continued to meet throughout the summer and others are planning to start meeting again in the fall. You can find more information about each Life Group, its leader, and meeting time on our website at https://www.icrclansing.org/small-groups. Please talk with our Life Groups Connections leader, Rick H, if you have any questions or would like to know more information. 

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Darla L, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Marcia J, Mike J, Julie L, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Peter and Patty Ford, Middle East

Pray for peace and positive relations between Muslims and Christians in the Middle East,  and specifically for Lebanon. Pray for Peter and Patty as they carry out their various ministries at NEST and in Beirut, and for the people of Lebanon as they deal with regional tensions and the large presence of Syrian refugees. Please also pray for NEST president George Sabra to guide the school well through the many challenges facing Middle Eastern Christians, and  for the students as they face uncertainties both during their time at NEST and once they graduate, due to political and religious tensions in the region.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, and Sandi S

for continued healing.                                                                                    

Save the Dates

  September 7- Consistory Meeting

                                        September 8- Spiritual Growth Meeting

                                           September 9- Prayer Team Meeting

                                                 September 12- Communion

August 22, 2021

“Greetings from all of us at Immanuel”

The two most common misconceptions about the Bible that people inside and outside of the church hold: One is that it is a set of rules and mandates that are so regressive and historic that it feels less like a book and more like a cinder block weighing us down. The other is that, while the Bible may be viewed with some respect and esteem, it sits on people's shelves next to other highly respected books, but it is rarely read.

 Neither of these views have the life shaping view of the Bible that we must have as Christians. Today, in the well-known verse of Psalm 119:105 we will see what is truly significant about the Bible that is God's Word. The significance of the Bible is that its purpose and influence on our lives goes far beyond what any other set of rules to live by, or books on our shelves, can claim to have. This morning we will seek to see the Bible as God intends for us to see it, so that He might change our lives through it.

 The Approach to God

Pre-Service Music                          

*Songs                                                         Let It Rise                                                        -Davis

                                                              My Hope is in You                                     -Geesbreght

Prayer of Confession                     

Words of Assurance and Law of God

Kids

 The Word of God

*Song                                             Open the Eyes of My Heart                                     -Baloche      

Scripture:                                                     Psalm 119              

Message                                 “What is So Significant About the Bible?”

                                                                  Pastor Matt

Prayer for Blessing                           

The Response to the Word

Moment for Ministry

*Song                                                       All to You                                                     -Brewster

*Benediction                           

Postlude

Offering

 The ongoing ministry of the church relies on the generous giving of its members. At this time, we will not be passing the offering plates during the service.  Please place your offering in the basket provided.

 *Songs used by permission of CCLI #95502

ANNOUNCEMENTS

August Calling Team:  Please call Sue F or Julie L with any special concerns or requests.

August Mission of the Month: Judson Love Clothing Center is in need of all children's clothing starting with size 4, but especially needed are sports bras sizes S – XL, and men’s/boy’s boxers sizes S- XL.  There is a box for donations located just outside of the sanctuary, or you may make a monetary donation towards this very worthy cause.

Combined Outdoor Worship Service with Siloam Nepali Church, Next Sunday, August 31, at 10:00 am.:  Praise God as we come together for the diversity of gifts and graces within the body of Christ and for the beautiful variety and variance of the people, personalities, interests, and activities that are represented throughout the whole Church of God.

Greeters Needed: We are starting a new system for Greeter sign-up.  On the bulletin board you will find a sign-up sheet which gives you the flexibility to sign up by specific weeks through December.  We need 2 greeters per week so you can volunteer as a couple or as an individual.  After signing up, you will receive a short description of duties in your mailbox, and a reminder will appear in the bulletin the week prior.

ICRC Members and Visitors: Here at Immanuel, we believe it is our calling as Christians to grow together in the knowledge and example of Jesus Christ. Our primary way of doing this is through our Life Group ministry in which members and guests have the opportunity to be connected with a group of fellow Christians for the purpose of growing together in Christ. Some of our Life Groups have continued to meet throughout the summer and others are planning to start meeting again in the fall. You can find more information about each Life Group, its leader, and meeting time on our website at https://www.icrclansing.org/small-groups. Please talk with our Life Groups Connections leader, Rick H, if you have any questions or would like to know more information. 

Summer Series June 13- September 5: Join us as we continue to take a deep dive into the Psalms in order to know ourselves, our world, and our God more deeply.

August 29 - What is So Significant About the Bible? Psalm 119

September 5 - How Can I Know God's Will for My Life? Psalm 37

Your Leaders are so thankful for your fervent prayers:

 Staff: Pastor Matt L, Joey S, Darla L, Stacia W

Consistory: Carrie B, Sandy C, Eric C, Sue F, Rick H, Marcia J, Mike J, Julie L, and our ministry teams

Prayers for RCA Missionaries- Peter and Patty Ford, Middle East

Pray for peace and positive relations between Muslims and Christians in the Middle East,  and specifically for Lebanon. Pray for Peter and Patty as they carry out their various ministries at NEST and in Beirut, and for the people of Lebanon as they deal with regional tensions and the large presence of Syrian refugees. Please also pray for NEST president George Sabra to guide the school well through the many challenges facing Middle Eastern Christians, and  for the students as they face uncertainties both during their time at NEST and once they graduate, due to political and religious tensions in the region.

To hear more prayer requests from ICRC, please call 321-2495, extension 191, or if you have a personal prayer request, please contact Marcia J. You may also submit a prayer request on our website at www.icrclansing.org.

 Friends with Health Concerns

                            Shelby A, Mark and June B, John B, Joe C

Howard C, Sandy F, John F, Carol G,

                 Kathy G, Roland H, and other Parkinson’s sufferers,

                       Lon H, Marcia N, Marian P,

             Sandi S, and Joy V for continued healing.                                                                                    

Save the Dates

August 31- Deacon’s Meeting

 September 5- Outdoor Worship/ Braylon & Elijah Alford Baptism

 September 7- Consistory Meeting

    September 8- Spiritual Growth Meeting

      September 9- Prayer Team Meeting

          September 12- Communion