House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church January 2014
Notes, prayers and praises
OUR CHRISTMAS HEIFER INTERNATIONAL offering this year was $254!
RACHEL STOLTZFUS is recovering well from her recent spinal surgery (see her address on the reverse side).
JANUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to James Stauffer 1/8, Susan Campbell 1/17, Becky Morlan 1/28, Dick Dumas 1/30!
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
Lectionary readings
5 Isaiah 60:1-6 Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 Ephesians 3:1-12 Matthew 2:1-12
12 Isaiah 42:1–9 Psalm 29 Acts 10:34-43 Matthew 2:13-17
19 Isaiah 49:1–7 Psalm 40:1–11 1 Corinthians 1:1–9 John 1:29–42
26 Isaiah 9:1-4 Psalm 27:1, 4-9 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Matthew 4:12-23
(revised) January services worship at 4, meal at 6
5 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
“Twelfth Day of Christmas” Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
12 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns
Dr.,K’town 908-0391
Worship
and sharing, followed by our annual business meeting.
Carry-in Meal
19 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns
Dr.,K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing:Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
26 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope Directory (Not available online)
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
December 2013 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church December 2013
Reflections on Gift Giving at Christmas
In his book, “Scroogenomics”, Joel Waldfogel of the University of Pennsylvania makes the case that gift giving, especially the kind we do at Christmas, makes no economic sense. It’s a form of wealth destruction, he says, in that if we buy a sweater for ourselves for, say, $50, we do so because we believe it has at least that much value, but if Aunt Minnie buys a $50 sweater for us it’s unlikely that it has that same value for us. We might just store in an already full closet and later haul it off to the local thrift store or sell it at a pittance at our next yard sale. So unless we know someone very, very well, he says, we’re better off giving them a gift card, or a gift to charity in their name. Or we might write or create something that can’t be bought at a store, or maybe put together a book of coupons that offer our time or some favors they might enjoy.
I’ve just read reviews of the book, so I shouldn’t pretend to understand it all, but I do know that as a child growing up (in a home in which my parents were poor and our Christmases meager), whatever simple gifts I was given, whether bought or homemade, definitely increased in their value in the giving. I was breathless with excitement over the kind of simple Christmas my grandchildren could hardly imagine. Yet I’m sure I enjoyed it as least as much as they, surrounded on Christmas morning by all kinds of battery powered gadgets and Fisher Price plastic and reams of torn wrapping paper. As an alternative, I’ve even proposed that our grandchildren might want to select from their rather ample toy collections something they would like to give one of their young cousins or a needy child as a recycled gift, carefully chosen and given a second life. Or we adults could agree to select a choice book from our libraries or from our collection of dishes or tools to give a friend or family member, something we no longer need but believe could add to someone else’s pleasure, and thus truly add value to the gift. - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* WE WILL BE USING the lectionary texts during Advent.
WE WELCOME OUR HOUSE CHURCH FRIENDS to our annual Christmas Celebration and meal at the Lodge Sunday, December 15.
A DECEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSING to Karen Campbell 12/26!
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
Advent lectionary readings
1 Isaiah 2:1-5 Psalm 122 Romans 13:11-14 Matthew 24:36-44
8 Isaiah 11:1-10 Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 Romans 15:4-13 Matthew 3:1-12
15 Isaiah 35:1-10 Psalm 146:5-10 James 5:7-10 Matthew 11:2-11
22 Isaiah 7:10-16 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 Romans 1:1-7 Matthew 1:18-25
29 Isaiah 63:7-9 Psalm 148 Hebrews 2:10-18 Matthew 2:13-23
December services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 12/15)
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
25th Anniversary celebration for Elly and Neal
Worship and Sharing c/o Lois Wenger and David Weaver
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Reception Carry-in meal
15 Annual Christmas Reunion Celebration with other house churches
4 pm Carry-in Meal at Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391, plus a meditation by Dick Dumas, carol singing, a children’s story, and an offering for Heifer International.
22 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church December 2013
Reflections on Gift Giving at Christmas
In his book, “Scroogenomics”, Joel Waldfogel of the University of Pennsylvania makes the case that gift giving, especially the kind we do at Christmas, makes no economic sense. It’s a form of wealth destruction, he says, in that if we buy a sweater for ourselves for, say, $50, we do so because we believe it has at least that much value, but if Aunt Minnie buys a $50 sweater for us it’s unlikely that it has that same value for us. We might just store in an already full closet and later haul it off to the local thrift store or sell it at a pittance at our next yard sale. So unless we know someone very, very well, he says, we’re better off giving them a gift card, or a gift to charity in their name. Or we might write or create something that can’t be bought at a store, or maybe put together a book of coupons that offer our time or some favors they might enjoy.
I’ve just read reviews of the book, so I shouldn’t pretend to understand it all, but I do know that as a child growing up (in a home in which my parents were poor and our Christmases meager), whatever simple gifts I was given, whether bought or homemade, definitely increased in their value in the giving. I was breathless with excitement over the kind of simple Christmas my grandchildren could hardly imagine. Yet I’m sure I enjoyed it as least as much as they, surrounded on Christmas morning by all kinds of battery powered gadgets and Fisher Price plastic and reams of torn wrapping paper. As an alternative, I’ve even proposed that our grandchildren might want to select from their rather ample toy collections something they would like to give one of their young cousins or a needy child as a recycled gift, carefully chosen and given a second life. Or we adults could agree to select a choice book from our libraries or from our collection of dishes or tools to give a friend or family member, something we no longer need but believe could add to someone else’s pleasure, and thus truly add value to the gift. - Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* WE WILL BE USING the lectionary texts during Advent.
WE WELCOME OUR HOUSE CHURCH FRIENDS to our annual Christmas Celebration and meal at the Lodge Sunday, December 15.
A DECEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSING to Karen Campbell 12/26!
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
Advent lectionary readings
1 Isaiah 2:1-5 Psalm 122 Romans 13:11-14 Matthew 24:36-44
8 Isaiah 11:1-10 Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 Romans 15:4-13 Matthew 3:1-12
15 Isaiah 35:1-10 Psalm 146:5-10 James 5:7-10 Matthew 11:2-11
22 Isaiah 7:10-16 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 Romans 1:1-7 Matthew 1:18-25
29 Isaiah 63:7-9 Psalm 148 Hebrews 2:10-18 Matthew 2:13-23
December services worship at 4, meal at 6 (except 12/15)
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
25th Anniversary celebration for Elly and Neal
Worship and Sharing c/o Lois Wenger and David Weaver
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Reception Carry-in meal
15 Annual Christmas Reunion Celebration with other house churches
4 pm Carry-in Meal at Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391, plus a meditation by Dick Dumas, carol singing, a children’s story, and an offering for Heifer International.
22 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Sunday, October 27, 2013
November 2013 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church November 2013
Tithes and Taxes: Very Modest Forms of Rent
In the Hebrew Bible, God's people are commanded to set aside ten percent of their produce and income for the support God’s work and for the benefit of the poor. The New Testament does not mandate a tithe, but promotes generous giving of the kind that helps bring about equality among believers.
It’s hard to imagine any North American Christians feeling justified in giving any less in light of how blessed we are in comparison to the majority of people in the world. Ten percent could be considered a most reasonable form of “rent” for the privilege of living on the most hospitable planet imaginable.
Think of all the benefits: enough food, water and fresh air here for all (providing we take proper care of the earth), along with the priceless gift of life itself--plus countless other examples of pure, unmerited grace.
We could also think of taxes as a modest and reasonable “rent” we gladly pay for living in a country that offers so many benefits and services we could never provide for ourselves.
For example, we have roads, schools, a postal system, police protection, health care for the elderly and most needy, plus a host of other blessings we regularly take for granted. Of course we can also find examples of waste and misuse of tax dollars that need to be addressed, but instead of complaining, we should seek to correct them and to be grateful for the fantastic bargain we are getting for our “rent payments”.
Lest we be guilty of a serious case of “Gratitude Deficit Disorder”.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* “A LIFE HEALED AND WHOLE” is the theme of our fall Bible study series on I and II Peter.
OUR PENNY POWER OFFERING for the Relief Sale this year totaled $233.28 ($132.14 last year).
* NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Neal Nelson 11/2, Rachel Stoltzfus 11/5, Paul Swarr 11/10, Emily Zhou 11/11, and Guy Vlasits 11/21. Neal and Elly Nelson’s 25th anniversary is November 26!
* HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
* GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
November lectionary devotional readings
3 Isaiah 1:10-18 Psalm 32:1-7 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 Luke 19:1-10
10 Psalm 98 Job 19:23-27a 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 Luke 20:27-38
17 Malachi 4:1-2a Psalm 98 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Luke 21:5-19
24 Jeremiah 23:1-6 Psalm 46 Colossians 1:11-20 Luke 23:33-43
November services worship at 4, meal at 6
3 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
I Peter 5 “The Burden and Blessing of Leadership”: Overseer Roy Hange
Finger Foods Meal
10 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
II Peter 1 “Bright Light to Live By”: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
II Peter 2 “Living in Perilous Times” Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Sharing, Prayer, and Renewing of Wedding Vows (Neal and Elly’s 25th)
II Peter 3 “Ready for Christ’s Coming” James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church November 2013
Tithes and Taxes: Very Modest Forms of Rent
In the Hebrew Bible, God's people are commanded to set aside ten percent of their produce and income for the support God’s work and for the benefit of the poor. The New Testament does not mandate a tithe, but promotes generous giving of the kind that helps bring about equality among believers.
It’s hard to imagine any North American Christians feeling justified in giving any less in light of how blessed we are in comparison to the majority of people in the world. Ten percent could be considered a most reasonable form of “rent” for the privilege of living on the most hospitable planet imaginable.
Think of all the benefits: enough food, water and fresh air here for all (providing we take proper care of the earth), along with the priceless gift of life itself--plus countless other examples of pure, unmerited grace.
We could also think of taxes as a modest and reasonable “rent” we gladly pay for living in a country that offers so many benefits and services we could never provide for ourselves.
For example, we have roads, schools, a postal system, police protection, health care for the elderly and most needy, plus a host of other blessings we regularly take for granted. Of course we can also find examples of waste and misuse of tax dollars that need to be addressed, but instead of complaining, we should seek to correct them and to be grateful for the fantastic bargain we are getting for our “rent payments”.
Lest we be guilty of a serious case of “Gratitude Deficit Disorder”.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* “A LIFE HEALED AND WHOLE” is the theme of our fall Bible study series on I and II Peter.
OUR PENNY POWER OFFERING for the Relief Sale this year totaled $233.28 ($132.14 last year).
* NOVEMBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Neal Nelson 11/2, Rachel Stoltzfus 11/5, Paul Swarr 11/10, Emily Zhou 11/11, and Guy Vlasits 11/21. Neal and Elly Nelson’s 25th anniversary is November 26!
* HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
* GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
November lectionary devotional readings
3 Isaiah 1:10-18 Psalm 32:1-7 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 Luke 19:1-10
10 Psalm 98 Job 19:23-27a 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 Luke 20:27-38
17 Malachi 4:1-2a Psalm 98 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Luke 21:5-19
24 Jeremiah 23:1-6 Psalm 46 Colossians 1:11-20 Luke 23:33-43
November services worship at 4, meal at 6
3 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
I Peter 5 “The Burden and Blessing of Leadership”: Overseer Roy Hange
Finger Foods Meal
10 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
II Peter 1 “Bright Light to Live By”: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
II Peter 2 “Living in Perilous Times” Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Sharing, Prayer, and Renewing of Wedding Vows (Neal and Elly’s 25th)
II Peter 3 “Ready for Christ’s Coming” James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Monday, October 7, 2013
October 2013 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church October 2013
It Will Not Always Be As It Is Now
In his meditation in the July-August, 2013, issue of "Beside the Still Waters", James Baer tells about a Russian family he visited that had the words "It will not always be as it is now" written in large print on a placard on their dining room wall.
It turns out that many years before the father had spent years in a Soviet prison for refusing to enlist in the army because of what he believed Jesus taught about violence. It was then that the mother had written these words and posted them as a sign of hope for herself and for her children, trusting that one day their father would return and things would be better.
When the father was finally released and life greatly improved, some friends asked why she had not removed those words. Her reply was simply, "Because it's still true that 'It will not always be as it is now'."
Just as people in distress need hope, those of us who are doing well need to learn from history that all nations, economies and cultures rise and fall. We could all face hardships in our lifetimes like those of people in Syria today and in many other trouble spots in the world, past and present. Or as with the following:
• A major collapse of the worldwide economic system
• Destruction of computer systems on which we have all become
extremely dependent
• Major droughts and other weather events associated with climate
that could result in severe shortages of water and food
• Massive assaults by terrorists or by nations with atomic and other
weapons
Meanwhile, we need to have a heart that suffers with those already experiencing devastation and do everything possible to help them, just as we would have others do to us if we were in similar straits.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* “A LIFE HEALED AND WHOLE” is the theme of our fall Bible study series on I and II Peter.
RACHEL STOLTZFUS is recovering well from her recent spinal surgery and appreciates our ongoing prayers and concerns. Contact her at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817 (301-493-4470).
OCTOBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Elly Nelson 10/28, and a belated Happy Birthday to David Weaver 9/23!
MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be at the Fairgrounds October 4-5.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
October lectionary devotional readings
6 Habakkuk 1-2:4 Psalm 37:1-9 2 Timothy 1:1-14 Luke 17:5-10
13 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 Psalm 66:1-12 2 Timothy 2:8-15 Luke 17:11-19
20 Jeremiah 31:27-34 Psalm 121 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 Luke 18:1-8 27
27 Joel 2:23-32 Psalm 65 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 Luke 18:9-14
October services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
6 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
I Peter 2:11-25 “This World is not Your Home”: Paul Swarr
Carry-in Meal
13 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
I Peter 3:1-12 “Beautiful, Everyday Love”: Harvey Yoder
Finger Foods Meal
20 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
I Peter 3:13-4:6 “Blessed by Suffering” Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
I Peter 4:7-19 “Living With the End in Mind” Elly Nelson
Family of Hope House Church October 2013
It Will Not Always Be As It Is Now
In his meditation in the July-August, 2013, issue of "Beside the Still Waters", James Baer tells about a Russian family he visited that had the words "It will not always be as it is now" written in large print on a placard on their dining room wall.
It turns out that many years before the father had spent years in a Soviet prison for refusing to enlist in the army because of what he believed Jesus taught about violence. It was then that the mother had written these words and posted them as a sign of hope for herself and for her children, trusting that one day their father would return and things would be better.
When the father was finally released and life greatly improved, some friends asked why she had not removed those words. Her reply was simply, "Because it's still true that 'It will not always be as it is now'."
Just as people in distress need hope, those of us who are doing well need to learn from history that all nations, economies and cultures rise and fall. We could all face hardships in our lifetimes like those of people in Syria today and in many other trouble spots in the world, past and present. Or as with the following:
• A major collapse of the worldwide economic system
• Destruction of computer systems on which we have all become
extremely dependent
• Major droughts and other weather events associated with climate
that could result in severe shortages of water and food
• Massive assaults by terrorists or by nations with atomic and other
weapons
Meanwhile, we need to have a heart that suffers with those already experiencing devastation and do everything possible to help them, just as we would have others do to us if we were in similar straits.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
* “A LIFE HEALED AND WHOLE” is the theme of our fall Bible study series on I and II Peter.
RACHEL STOLTZFUS is recovering well from her recent spinal surgery and appreciates our ongoing prayers and concerns. Contact her at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817 (301-493-4470).
OCTOBER BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Elly Nelson 10/28, and a belated Happy Birthday to David Weaver 9/23!
MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be at the Fairgrounds October 4-5.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
October lectionary devotional readings
6 Habakkuk 1-2:4 Psalm 37:1-9 2 Timothy 1:1-14 Luke 17:5-10
13 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 Psalm 66:1-12 2 Timothy 2:8-15 Luke 17:11-19
20 Jeremiah 31:27-34 Psalm 121 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 Luke 18:1-8 27
27 Joel 2:23-32 Psalm 65 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 Luke 18:9-14
October services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
6 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
I Peter 2:11-25 “This World is not Your Home”: Paul Swarr
Carry-in Meal
13 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
I Peter 3:1-12 “Beautiful, Everyday Love”: Harvey Yoder
Finger Foods Meal
20 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
I Peter 3:13-4:6 “Blessed by Suffering” Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
27 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
I Peter 4:7-19 “Living With the End in Mind” Elly Nelson
Sunday, August 25, 2013
September 2013 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church September 2013
Two Letters From a Close Friend of Jesus
Between now and Advent, we will be focusing on a study of I and II Peter, two pastoral letters by the apostle Peter, among the early church’s most influential disciples and one of Jesus’s closest friends. Written at around 64 and 66 A.D, his letters were addressed to Christians living in Asia Minor and beyond who were suffering from widespread Roman persecution. Our theme for the series will be “A Life Healed and Whole”.
As we delve into Peter’s writings we will find them as powerful in their ability to inspire and build us up today as they were when they were first circulated nearly two millennia ago.
Here are some things Eugene Peterson has to say about I and II Peter in his introduction to the text in the Message:
The two letters Peter wrote exhibit the qualities of Jesus that the Holy Spirit shaped in him: a readiness to embrace suffering rather than prestige, a wisdom developed from experience and not imposed from a book, a humility that lacked nothing in vigor or imagination. From what we know of the early stories of Peter, he had in him all the markings of a bully. That he didn’t become a bully (and religious bullies are the worst kind) but rather a boldly confident and humbly self-effacing servant of Jesus Christ that we discern in these letters is a compelling witness to what he himself describes as “a brand-new life, with everything to live for.
Notes, prayers and praises
SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARY BLESSINGS to Billy & Karla May 9/3!
MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be at the Fairgrounds October 4-5.
HARRISONBURG DISTRICT COUNCIL meets at the Lodge 9/26.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
September lectionary devotional readings
1 Jeremiah 2:4-13 Psalm 2:4-13 Psalm 81:1-16 Hebrews 13:1-16
8 Psalm 1 Jeremiah 18:1-11 Philemon 1-21 Luke 14:25-33
15 Psalm 51:1-10 Jeremiah 4:11-28 1Timothy 1:12-17 Luke 15:1-10
22 Psalm 113 Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 1Timothy 2:1-7 Luke 16:1-13
29 Psalm 146 Jeremiah 32:1-15 1Timothy 6:6-19 Luke 16:19-31
September services worship at 4, meal at 6
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
I Peter 1:1-2 “The Apostle and his Epistles”: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Riven Rock Park, Shelter #3 (Rt. 33 west of Harrisonburg)
Worship, Sharing and Bible Study
I Peter 1:3-12 “A Brand New Life”: Harvey Yoder
Carry-in Picnic Meal (grill available for hamburgers, hot dogs, etc.)
15 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
I Peter 1:13-2:1-3 “A Life Blazing With Holiness” Dick Dumas
Carry-in Meal
22 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
“A Life of Faithfulness--First, 16th and 21st Century Witnesses”
Power Point presentation by Phil Kniss Lord’s Supper Meal (provided)
29 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
I Peter 2:4-10 Study “Life on Solid Rock” James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church September 2013
Two Letters From a Close Friend of Jesus
Between now and Advent, we will be focusing on a study of I and II Peter, two pastoral letters by the apostle Peter, among the early church’s most influential disciples and one of Jesus’s closest friends. Written at around 64 and 66 A.D, his letters were addressed to Christians living in Asia Minor and beyond who were suffering from widespread Roman persecution. Our theme for the series will be “A Life Healed and Whole”.
As we delve into Peter’s writings we will find them as powerful in their ability to inspire and build us up today as they were when they were first circulated nearly two millennia ago.
Here are some things Eugene Peterson has to say about I and II Peter in his introduction to the text in the Message:
The two letters Peter wrote exhibit the qualities of Jesus that the Holy Spirit shaped in him: a readiness to embrace suffering rather than prestige, a wisdom developed from experience and not imposed from a book, a humility that lacked nothing in vigor or imagination. From what we know of the early stories of Peter, he had in him all the markings of a bully. That he didn’t become a bully (and religious bullies are the worst kind) but rather a boldly confident and humbly self-effacing servant of Jesus Christ that we discern in these letters is a compelling witness to what he himself describes as “a brand-new life, with everything to live for.
Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
SEPTEMBER ANNIVERSARY BLESSINGS to Billy & Karla May 9/3!
MENNONITE RELIEF SALE will be at the Fairgrounds October 4-5.
HARRISONBURG DISTRICT COUNCIL meets at the Lodge 9/26.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
September lectionary devotional readings
1 Jeremiah 2:4-13 Psalm 2:4-13 Psalm 81:1-16 Hebrews 13:1-16
8 Psalm 1 Jeremiah 18:1-11 Philemon 1-21 Luke 14:25-33
15 Psalm 51:1-10 Jeremiah 4:11-28 1Timothy 1:12-17 Luke 15:1-10
22 Psalm 113 Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 1Timothy 2:1-7 Luke 16:1-13
29 Psalm 146 Jeremiah 32:1-15 1Timothy 6:6-19 Luke 16:19-31
September services worship at 4, meal at 6
1 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
I Peter 1:1-2 “The Apostle and his Epistles”: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
8 Location: Riven Rock Park, Shelter #3 (Rt. 33 west of Harrisonburg)
Worship, Sharing and Bible Study
I Peter 1:3-12 “A Brand New Life”: Harvey Yoder
Carry-in Picnic Meal (grill available for hamburgers, hot dogs, etc.)
15 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
I Peter 1:13-2:1-3 “A Life Blazing With Holiness” Dick Dumas
Carry-in Meal
22 Location: Family Life Resource Center 723 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
“A Life of Faithfulness--First, 16th and 21st Century Witnesses”
Power Point presentation by Phil Kniss Lord’s Supper Meal (provided)
29 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
I Peter 2:4-10 Study “Life on Solid Rock” James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Saturday, July 27, 2013
August 2013 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church August 2013
A Harvest of Over Ripe Fruit
The ancient prophet Amos, a Judean shepherd and vinedresser, marches into neighboring Israel with bad, bad news.
His timing couldn’t be more awkward. The economy of that nation is booming, stock prices are soaring, housing starts are at a record high, and consumer confidence is rising. But so is the gap between rich and poor.
Which is why Amos wades right into the Israeli commodities market and announces that it's all over. God is fed up, he says. All of your bins of freshly harvested grain will mold, and your lush harvest of ripe summer fruit will rot, he declares. Your greedy profit-taking is over.
According to the prophets, whenever the poor aren't getting a fair share and a fair shake, the Almighty is outraged. So God thunders out as if to say, "Enough already! My bounty is meant to be shared, not hoarded.”
Jewish scholar Abraham Heschel describes men like Amos as "some of the most disturbing people who have ever lived," and adds, "Instead of dealing with the timeless issues of being and becoming, of matter and form, of definitions and demonstrations," he (the prophet) is thrown into orations about widows and orphans, about the corruption of judges and the affairs of the market place. The world is a proud place, full of beauty, but the prophets are scandalized, and rave as if the whole world were a slum... What if somewhere in ancient Palestine poor people have not been treated properly by the rich? ...Why such inordinate excitement? Why such indignation?"
Heschel then notes, "The things that horrified the prophets are daily occurrences all over the world."
Notes, prayers and praises
AUGUST BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Gail Blackburn 8/30! Alma Jean and Harvey’s anniversary is 8/8 and James and Ruth Stauffer’s is 8/30.
WONSHE has moved to 1086 Smith Avenue. Her phone number is 303-309-0868.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of October will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068, and her new email is loisriverawenger@yahoo.com.
BILLY MAY had been scheduled to have a suspicious growth in his mouth removed, but it completely disappeared, an answer to prayer!
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
August lectionary readings
4 Psalm 49:1-12 Hosea 11:1-11 Colossians 3:1-11 Luke 12:13-21
11 Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 Isaiah 1:1-20 Hebrews 11:1-16 Luke 12:32-40
18 Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 Isaiah 5:1-7 Hebrews 11:29-12:2 Luke 12:49-56
25 Psalm 71:1-12 Isaiah 58:9b-14 Hebrews 12:18-29 Luke 13:10-17
August services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
4 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
11 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
18 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
25 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church August 2013
A Harvest of Over Ripe Fruit
The ancient prophet Amos, a Judean shepherd and vinedresser, marches into neighboring Israel with bad, bad news.
His timing couldn’t be more awkward. The economy of that nation is booming, stock prices are soaring, housing starts are at a record high, and consumer confidence is rising. But so is the gap between rich and poor.
Which is why Amos wades right into the Israeli commodities market and announces that it's all over. God is fed up, he says. All of your bins of freshly harvested grain will mold, and your lush harvest of ripe summer fruit will rot, he declares. Your greedy profit-taking is over.
According to the prophets, whenever the poor aren't getting a fair share and a fair shake, the Almighty is outraged. So God thunders out as if to say, "Enough already! My bounty is meant to be shared, not hoarded.”
Jewish scholar Abraham Heschel describes men like Amos as "some of the most disturbing people who have ever lived," and adds, "Instead of dealing with the timeless issues of being and becoming, of matter and form, of definitions and demonstrations," he (the prophet) is thrown into orations about widows and orphans, about the corruption of judges and the affairs of the market place. The world is a proud place, full of beauty, but the prophets are scandalized, and rave as if the whole world were a slum... What if somewhere in ancient Palestine poor people have not been treated properly by the rich? ...Why such inordinate excitement? Why such indignation?"
Heschel then notes, "The things that horrified the prophets are daily occurrences all over the world."
Notes, prayers and praises
AUGUST BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Gail Blackburn 8/30! Alma Jean and Harvey’s anniversary is 8/8 and James and Ruth Stauffer’s is 8/30.
WONSHE has moved to 1086 Smith Avenue. Her phone number is 303-309-0868.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of October will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068, and her new email is loisriverawenger@yahoo.com.
BILLY MAY had been scheduled to have a suspicious growth in his mouth removed, but it completely disappeared, an answer to prayer!
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogspot.com.
HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
August lectionary readings
4 Psalm 49:1-12 Hosea 11:1-11 Colossians 3:1-11 Luke 12:13-21
11 Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 Isaiah 1:1-20 Hebrews 11:1-16 Luke 12:32-40
18 Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 Isaiah 5:1-7 Hebrews 11:29-12:2 Luke 12:49-56
25 Psalm 71:1-12 Isaiah 58:9b-14 Hebrews 12:18-29 Luke 13:10-17
August services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
4 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave. 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
11 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
18 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
25 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
Saturday, July 6, 2013
July 2013 newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church July 2013
Virginia Conference Assembly at EMHS
Thursday, July 25
7 pm Worship – “Imagine God’s power at work in us!”
Speaker: Loren Horst
8:45 pm
Concert by The Walking Roots Band and homemade ice cream
Friday, July 26
8:15-9:00 am Bible Study – “God’s Intention for the Church”
Teacher: Carmen Schrock-Hurst
7:00-8:30 pm Worship – “Participating in the Vision of God”
Speaker: Nelson Okanya, president of Eastern Mennonite Missions
8:45-9:45
Taste of Missions
Saturday, July 27
7:00-8:00 am
Mennonite Women’s Breakfast with Grace Prasetyo
Mennonite Men’s Breakfast with Chris Riddle
10:00-10:45 am
Bible Study – “God’s Provision” Teacher: Phil Kniss
Directions to Lois Rivera-Wenger’s home (7/7/13):
Take 42 south about 15.0 miles, turn left on to Mt Solon Road, (which becomes Spring Hill Road). Go 6.2 miles, turn slight right on to Shutterlee Mill Rd. Go 1.3 miles, turn slight right on to Homes Lane. Go 0.5 mi, then turn left at 204 Homes Lane. Bring lawn chairs, and allow about 45 minutes to get there!
Notes, prayers and praises
JULY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Lois Rivera-Wenger 7/30 and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Guy and Margie Vlasits 7/27!
PRAY FOR KARLA MAY as she recovers from her knee surgery, and for BERTHA SWARR, who is now recuperating at home.
DAVID WEAVER’S correct phone number is 421-4504.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of October will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068, and her new email is loisriverawenger@yahoo.com.
EVERYONE IS WECOME to attend sessions at this summer’s Virginia Conference Assembly as outlined on page one.
HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
July lectionary readings
7 Psalm 66:1-9 Isaiah 66:10-14 Galatians 6:1-16 Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
14 Psalm 82 Amos 7:7-17 Colossians 1:1-14 Luke 10:25-37
21 Psalm 15 Amos 8:1-12 Colossians 1:15-28 Luke 10:38-42
28 Psalm 138 Hosea 1:2-10 Colossians 2:6-19 Luke 11:1-13
July services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
7 Location: Lois Rivera-Wenger, 204 Homes Ln., Staunton 502-525-8650
Worship, Sharing and Bible Study led by Lois Rivera-Wenger
Bring Lawn Chairs and Food for a Carry-in Picnic Meal
14 Location: Paul and Bertha Swarr 1260 Parkway Dr 22802 434-2607
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Pizza Meal
21 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
28 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church July 2013
Virginia Conference Assembly at EMHS
Thursday, July 25
7 pm Worship – “Imagine God’s power at work in us!”
Speaker: Loren Horst
8:45 pm
Concert by The Walking Roots Band and homemade ice cream
Friday, July 26
8:15-9:00 am Bible Study – “God’s Intention for the Church”
Teacher: Carmen Schrock-Hurst
7:00-8:30 pm Worship – “Participating in the Vision of God”
Speaker: Nelson Okanya, president of Eastern Mennonite Missions
8:45-9:45
Taste of Missions
Saturday, July 27
7:00-8:00 am
Mennonite Women’s Breakfast with Grace Prasetyo
Mennonite Men’s Breakfast with Chris Riddle
10:00-10:45 am
Bible Study – “God’s Provision” Teacher: Phil Kniss
Directions to Lois Rivera-Wenger’s home (7/7/13):
Take 42 south about 15.0 miles, turn left on to Mt Solon Road, (which becomes Spring Hill Road). Go 6.2 miles, turn slight right on to Shutterlee Mill Rd. Go 1.3 miles, turn slight right on to Homes Lane. Go 0.5 mi, then turn left at 204 Homes Lane. Bring lawn chairs, and allow about 45 minutes to get there!
Notes, prayers and praises
JULY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Lois Rivera-Wenger 7/30 and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Guy and Margie Vlasits 7/27!
PRAY FOR KARLA MAY as she recovers from her knee surgery, and for BERTHA SWARR, who is now recuperating at home.
DAVID WEAVER’S correct phone number is 421-4504.
LOIS RIVERA-WENGER’s address through most of October will be 1317 Lake Access Road, Smithfield, KY 40068, and her new email is loisriverawenger@yahoo.com.
EVERYONE IS WECOME to attend sessions at this summer’s Virginia Conference Assembly as outlined on page one.
HARVEY’S BLOG is at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
July lectionary readings
7 Psalm 66:1-9 Isaiah 66:10-14 Galatians 6:1-16 Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
14 Psalm 82 Amos 7:7-17 Colossians 1:1-14 Luke 10:25-37
21 Psalm 15 Amos 8:1-12 Colossians 1:15-28 Luke 10:38-42
28 Psalm 138 Hosea 1:2-10 Colossians 2:6-19 Luke 11:1-13
July services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
7 Location: Lois Rivera-Wenger, 204 Homes Ln., Staunton 502-525-8650
Worship, Sharing and Bible Study led by Lois Rivera-Wenger
Bring Lawn Chairs and Food for a Carry-in Picnic Meal
14 Location: Paul and Bertha Swarr 1260 Parkway Dr 22802 434-2607
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Pizza Meal
21 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
28 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vlasits
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Bring Your Empty Cup
We invite everyone to join us in prayer and/or in person as we celebrate the Lord's Supper at the Family Life Resource Center meeting room this Sunday, June 23. Each participant is to bring their own cup, one they use regularly at home,
for the 4 pm service, where the theme will be "Fill My Cup, Lord". Each
may have as much grape juice in their cup as they wish, along
with a full slice from a loaf of gluten-free bread to be eaten at
leisure during this first hour of the service, the bread reminding us not
only of Christ's broken body, but also that in Christ we have become
"one loaf" (I Corinthians 10:16-17). There will be no other meal this
Sunday.
In the second hour of Bible study, one of the texts is Psalm 42, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God." The cup we use and take home with us will be a reminder of God's daily provision for satisfying that thirst.
Like the woman at the well
I was seeking
For things that could not satisfy;
And then I heard my Savior speaking:
"Draw from My well
that never shall run dry."
Chorus:
Fill my cup, Lord,
I lift it up Lord!
Come and quench
this thirsting of my soul;
Bread of heaven,
feed me till I want no more --
Fill my cup, fill it up
and make me whole!
So, my brother, if the things
this world gave you
Leave hunger that won't pass away, My blessed Lord
will come and save you,
If you kneel to Him and humbly pray:
Chorus:
In the second hour of Bible study, one of the texts is Psalm 42, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God." The cup we use and take home with us will be a reminder of God's daily provision for satisfying that thirst.
Here's the text of the song:
Like the woman at the well
I was seeking
For things that could not satisfy;
And then I heard my Savior speaking:
"Draw from My well
that never shall run dry."
Chorus:
Fill my cup, Lord,
I lift it up Lord!
Come and quench
this thirsting of my soul;
Bread of heaven,
feed me till I want no more --
Fill my cup, fill it up
and make me whole!
So, my brother, if the things
this world gave you
Leave hunger that won't pass away, My blessed Lord
will come and save you,
If you kneel to Him and humbly pray:
Chorus:
Thanks to all who will join us in prayerful communion.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
June 2013 House Church Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church June 2013
Practicing God’s Presence
"Brother Lawrence", born in France in 1611, experienced a powerful spiritual awakening at age 18. When he later joined the Order of “Barefooted” Carmelites in Paris he was assigned kitchen duty as a lay brother in this austere monastic community, an assignment he carried out cheerfully in spite of his aversion to any kind of food preparation work. His goal became to constantly "practice the presence of God," the spiritual discipline that became associated with his name.
I've often wondered if it’s really possible to live that way, a question we reflected on in a Family of Hope church service recently when veteran missionary and associate member Paul Swarr led our study of one of the lectionary texts in Lent.
I left that gathering with a new desire to have every part of my life, the "spiritual" and the "natural" alike, be lived in harmony with God, with a far less defined, clear dividing line between the "sacred" and the "ordinary" in everyday life. Since then I have been reminding myself of the need to listen deeply to the still, small voice of God--with the third ear of the heart--so that every moment becomes holy, every meal becomes a Eucharist, and every meeting with another an epiphany.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
JUNE BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Sophie May, 6/2, Josiah Dumas 6/9, Karla May 6/16, Isaiah May, 6/27 and Harvey Yoder 6/30!
PRAY FOR BERTHA SWARR who was admitted to VMRC Rm 102.
KAREN SOICH suffered a fall April 23 that has resulted in a lot of pain and her needing to use a wheel chair for now. Pray for her.
FLRC SPRING DINNER with speaker Jim Glanzer is June 8!
FOURTEEN FOH MEMBERS and friends enjoyed an Older Order Mennonite tour Saturday, May 25, which included a delicious noon meal at Ray and Rosemary Martin's west of Briery Branch.
THE PASTOR'S HARVSPOT BLOG IS LOCATED at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
June lectionary readings
2 Psalm 96 1Kings 18:20-39 Galatians 1:1-12 Luke 7:1-10
9 Psalm 146 1Kings 17:8-24 Galatians 1:11-24 Luke 7:11-17
16 Psalm 32 1Kings 21:1-21a Galatians 2:15-21 Luke 7:36-8:3
23 Psalm 42-43 1Kings 19:1-18 Galatians 3:23-29 Luke 8:26-39
30 Psalm 77 2Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 Galatians 5:1, 13-25 Luke 9:51-62
June services (worship at 4, meal at )
2 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Harvey & Alma Jean Yoder 1135 Hamlet 22802 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
16 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Sharing in the Lord's Supper: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas No meal this Sunday
30 Location: (to be announced)
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church June 2013
Practicing God’s Presence
"Brother Lawrence", born in France in 1611, experienced a powerful spiritual awakening at age 18. When he later joined the Order of “Barefooted” Carmelites in Paris he was assigned kitchen duty as a lay brother in this austere monastic community, an assignment he carried out cheerfully in spite of his aversion to any kind of food preparation work. His goal became to constantly "practice the presence of God," the spiritual discipline that became associated with his name.
I've often wondered if it’s really possible to live that way, a question we reflected on in a Family of Hope church service recently when veteran missionary and associate member Paul Swarr led our study of one of the lectionary texts in Lent.
I left that gathering with a new desire to have every part of my life, the "spiritual" and the "natural" alike, be lived in harmony with God, with a far less defined, clear dividing line between the "sacred" and the "ordinary" in everyday life. Since then I have been reminding myself of the need to listen deeply to the still, small voice of God--with the third ear of the heart--so that every moment becomes holy, every meal becomes a Eucharist, and every meeting with another an epiphany.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
JUNE BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Sophie May, 6/2, Josiah Dumas 6/9, Karla May 6/16, Isaiah May, 6/27 and Harvey Yoder 6/30!
PRAY FOR BERTHA SWARR who was admitted to VMRC Rm 102.
KAREN SOICH suffered a fall April 23 that has resulted in a lot of pain and her needing to use a wheel chair for now. Pray for her.
FLRC SPRING DINNER with speaker Jim Glanzer is June 8!
FOURTEEN FOH MEMBERS and friends enjoyed an Older Order Mennonite tour Saturday, May 25, which included a delicious noon meal at Ray and Rosemary Martin's west of Briery Branch.
THE PASTOR'S HARVSPOT BLOG IS LOCATED at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com.
June lectionary readings
2 Psalm 96 1Kings 18:20-39 Galatians 1:1-12 Luke 7:1-10
9 Psalm 146 1Kings 17:8-24 Galatians 1:11-24 Luke 7:11-17
16 Psalm 32 1Kings 21:1-21a Galatians 2:15-21 Luke 7:36-8:3
23 Psalm 42-43 1Kings 19:1-18 Galatians 3:23-29 Luke 8:26-39
30 Psalm 77 2Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 Galatians 5:1, 13-25 Luke 9:51-62
June services (worship at 4, meal at )
2 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
9 Location: Harvey & Alma Jean Yoder 1135 Hamlet 22802 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Meal
16 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Lois Wenger
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
23 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Sharing in the Lord's Supper: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas No meal this Sunday
30 Location: (to be announced)
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
Sunday, April 28, 2013
May 2013 FOH Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church May 2013
One Flock, One Shepherd
Jesus: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. -from John 17
Paul: I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought... 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? ...For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. - from I Corinthians 1-3
Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. - I Corinthians 10:16-17
I urge you then to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with each other in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.. Eph.4
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. -Romans 15:5-7
Notes, prayers and praises
* MAY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Margie Vlastis 5/1, Alma Jean Yoder 5/15 and Karen Soich 5/20!
* CONGRATULATIONS ON THE BIRTH OF JOSHUA ALLEN to Sophie May on April 14, weighing in at 7 lb., 11 oz.!
* “HEARTFELT THANKS to all of you who have supported me with your prayers, cards, visits, food and other acts of kindness during my recovery from knee surgery. You’re such a blessing! - Alma Jean Yoder
* Follow the pastor's blog at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com
May lectionary readings
3 Acts 16:9-15 Psalm 67 Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5 John 14:23-29
10 Acts 16:16-34 Psalm 97 Revelation 22:12-21 John 17:20-26
17 Acts 2:1-21 Psalm 104:24-35b Romans 8:14-17 John 14:8-27)
24 Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 Psalm 8 Romans 5:1-5 John 16:12-15
May services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
5 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
12 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Mimi Copp Johnson, representing MCC East Coast, will lead us in study
and reflection on our mandate to serve. Carry-in Finger Food Meal
19 Pentecost! Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
26 Location: David Weaver 1032 Smith Avenue 22802 421-4504
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
I support the goals, vision and faith of Family of Hope, will attend weekly services as regularly as able, and will use my gifts and offer my help and encouragement to this church family to the best of my ability. I invite other members to support me--and to confront me as needed--in remaining faithful to this commitment.
Family of Hope House Church May 2013
One Flock, One Shepherd
Jesus: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. -from John 17
Paul: I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought... 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? ...For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. - from I Corinthians 1-3
Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. - I Corinthians 10:16-17
I urge you then to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with each other in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.. Eph.4
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. -Romans 15:5-7
Notes, prayers and praises
* MAY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Margie Vlastis 5/1, Alma Jean Yoder 5/15 and Karen Soich 5/20!
* CONGRATULATIONS ON THE BIRTH OF JOSHUA ALLEN to Sophie May on April 14, weighing in at 7 lb., 11 oz.!
* “HEARTFELT THANKS to all of you who have supported me with your prayers, cards, visits, food and other acts of kindness during my recovery from knee surgery. You’re such a blessing! - Alma Jean Yoder
* Follow the pastor's blog at http://harvyoder.blogspot.com
May lectionary readings
3 Acts 16:9-15 Psalm 67 Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5 John 14:23-29
10 Acts 16:16-34 Psalm 97 Revelation 22:12-21 John 17:20-26
17 Acts 2:1-21 Psalm 104:24-35b Romans 8:14-17 John 14:8-27)
24 Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 Psalm 8 Romans 5:1-5 John 16:12-15
May services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
5 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
12 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Mimi Copp Johnson, representing MCC East Coast, will lead us in study
and reflection on our mandate to serve. Carry-in Finger Food Meal
19 Pentecost! Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr. K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
26 Location: David Weaver 1032 Smith Avenue 22802 421-4504
Worship and Sharing:
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
I support the goals, vision and faith of Family of Hope, will attend weekly services as regularly as able, and will use my gifts and offer my help and encouragement to this church family to the best of my ability. I invite other members to support me--and to confront me as needed--in remaining faithful to this commitment.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Another Special Easter Service
 |
| Gathering for breakfast at the Vlasists' Lodge after Sunday's sunrise service |
Our Family of Hope House Church
celebrated its annual Easter sunrise service yesterday at the securely locked
entrance of the once public Massanutten Caverns.
This was followed by celebrative singing together
and an Easter brunch in the former Caverns Lodge, with the meal prepared by hosts
Guy and Margie Vlasits, members of our church who operate the Old
Massanutten Lodge Bed and Breakfast.
A great time!
(photo by Margie Vlasits)
A great time!
(photo by Margie Vlasits)
Sunday, March 31, 2013
April 2013 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church April 2013
Notes, prayers and praises
APRIL BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Bertha Swarr 4/13, Jack (Hong
Yan) Zhou 4/14, Cathy Atwell 4/19, Bo Hu 4/20 and Randy May 4/21!
WE THANK GOD FOR MARGIE VALSITS’s great doctor’s report!
ALMA JEAN YODER is recovering from her March 22 knee surgery and was moved to the Shenandoah unit atVMRC for rehab.
RACHEL STOLTZFUS has sold her place and remains at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
April lectionary readings
7 Acts 5:27-32 Psalm 118:14-29 Revelation 1:4-8 John 20:19-31
14 Acts 9:1-20 Psalm 30 Revelation 5:11-14 John 21:1-19
21 Acts 9:36-43 Psalm 23 Revelation 7:9-17 John 10:22-30
28 Acts 11:1-18 Psalm 148 Revelation 21:1-6 John 13:31-35
April services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
7 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: Lois Rivera-Wenger Carry-in Meal
14 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Finger Food Meal
28 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope Directory (birthdays and addresses not included here)
Atwell, Cathy
Blackburn, Gail
Campbell, Susan
Campbell, Karen
Dumas, Dick
Levesque, Trish
May, Karla
Morlan, Becky
Nelson, Neal & Elly
Rivera-Wenger, Lois
Soich, Karen
Stauffer, James & Ruth
Stoltzfus, Rachel
Swarr, Paul & Bertha
Vlasits, Guy & Margie
Weaver, David
Wonshe 10/27
Yoder, Alma Jean & Harvey
(covenanted members names in bold)
Family of Hope House Church April 2013
Notes, prayers and praises
APRIL BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Bertha Swarr 4/13, Jack (Hong
Yan) Zhou 4/14, Cathy Atwell 4/19, Bo Hu 4/20 and Randy May 4/21!
WE THANK GOD FOR MARGIE VALSITS’s great doctor’s report!
ALMA JEAN YODER is recovering from her March 22 knee surgery and was moved to the Shenandoah unit atVMRC for rehab.
RACHEL STOLTZFUS has sold her place and remains at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
April lectionary readings
7 Acts 5:27-32 Psalm 118:14-29 Revelation 1:4-8 John 20:19-31
14 Acts 9:1-20 Psalm 30 Revelation 5:11-14 John 21:1-19
21 Acts 9:36-43 Psalm 23 Revelation 7:9-17 John 10:22-30
28 Acts 11:1-18 Psalm 148 Revelation 21:1-6 John 13:31-35
April services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
7 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: Lois Rivera-Wenger Carry-in Meal
14 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
21 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Finger Food Meal
28 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope Directory (birthdays and addresses not included here)
Atwell, Cathy
Blackburn, Gail
Campbell, Susan
Campbell, Karen
Dumas, Dick
Levesque, Trish
May, Karla
Morlan, Becky
Nelson, Neal & Elly
Rivera-Wenger, Lois
Soich, Karen
Stauffer, James & Ruth
Stoltzfus, Rachel
Swarr, Paul & Bertha
Vlasits, Guy & Margie
Weaver, David
Wonshe 10/27
Yoder, Alma Jean & Harvey
(covenanted members names in bold)
Saturday, February 23, 2013
March 2013 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church March 2013
A Hymn for Lent - Samuel Crossman 1664 (WH 235)
My song is love unknown,
My Saviour’s love to me;
Love to the loveless shown,
That they might lovely be.
O who am I, that for my sake
My Lord should take frail flesh and die?
Sometimes they strew His way,
And His sweet praises sing;
Resounding all the day
Hosannas to their King:
Then “Crucify!” is all their breath,
And for His death they thirst and cry.
Why, what hath my Lord done?
What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run,
He gave the blind their sight,
Sweet injuries! Yet they at these
Themselves displease, and ’gainst Him rise.
They rise and needs will have
My dear Lord made away;
A murderer they save,
The Prince of life they slay,
Yet cheerful He to suffering goes,
That He His foes from thence might free.
In life, no house, no home
My Lord on earth might have;
In death no friendly tomb
But what a stranger gave.
What may I say?
Heav’n was His home;
But mine the tomb wherein.
Here's the link to hear this sung by the St. Martin in the Fields Church Choir
Notes, prayers and praises
MARCH BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Ruth Stauffer 3/28, and Elianah Zhou 3/25, c/o Jack Zhou, 5615 W. Wren Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291.
WE ARE GRATEFUL TO GOD for the good report from Margie Vlasits about her being able to discontinue her cancer treatment!
ALMA JEAN’S KNEE SURGERY has been rescheduled for March 22.
CONTACT RACHEL STOLTZFUS at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470, or accameds@gmail.com.
OUR EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE and breakfast will be at the Vlasits March 31!
WE WELCOME LOIS WENGER home after helping with her grandchildren in Tennessee.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
March lectionary readings
3 Isaiah 55:1-9 Psalm 63:1-8 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Luke 13:1-9
10 Joshua 5:9-12 Psalm 32 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
17 Isaiah 43:16-21 Psalm 126 Philippians 3:4b-14 John 12:1-8
24 Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 Philippians 2:5-11 Luke 22:14-23:56
31 Isaiah 65:17-25 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 1 Corinthians 15:19-26
John 20:1-18
March services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
3 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Finger Food Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
31 Location: Easter Sunrise Service Guy & Margie Vlasits 908-0391
8 am Easter meditation by Harvey Yoder, followed by Easter singing and with a breakfast at 9:30 am.
Family of Hope House Church March 2013
A Hymn for Lent - Samuel Crossman 1664 (WH 235)
My song is love unknown,
My Saviour’s love to me;
Love to the loveless shown,
That they might lovely be.
O who am I, that for my sake
My Lord should take frail flesh and die?
Sometimes they strew His way,
And His sweet praises sing;
Resounding all the day
Hosannas to their King:
Then “Crucify!” is all their breath,
And for His death they thirst and cry.
Why, what hath my Lord done?
What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run,
He gave the blind their sight,
Sweet injuries! Yet they at these
Themselves displease, and ’gainst Him rise.
They rise and needs will have
My dear Lord made away;
A murderer they save,
The Prince of life they slay,
Yet cheerful He to suffering goes,
That He His foes from thence might free.
In life, no house, no home
My Lord on earth might have;
In death no friendly tomb
But what a stranger gave.
What may I say?
Heav’n was His home;
But mine the tomb wherein.
Here's the link to hear this sung by the St. Martin in the Fields Church Choir
Notes, prayers and praises
MARCH BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Ruth Stauffer 3/28, and Elianah Zhou 3/25, c/o Jack Zhou, 5615 W. Wren Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291.
WE ARE GRATEFUL TO GOD for the good report from Margie Vlasits about her being able to discontinue her cancer treatment!
ALMA JEAN’S KNEE SURGERY has been rescheduled for March 22.
CONTACT RACHEL STOLTZFUS at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470, or accameds@gmail.com.
OUR EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE and breakfast will be at the Vlasits March 31!
WE WELCOME LOIS WENGER home after helping with her grandchildren in Tennessee.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
March lectionary readings
3 Isaiah 55:1-9 Psalm 63:1-8 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Luke 13:1-9
10 Joshua 5:9-12 Psalm 32 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
17 Isaiah 43:16-21 Psalm 126 Philippians 3:4b-14 John 12:1-8
24 Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 Philippians 2:5-11 Luke 22:14-23:56
31 Isaiah 65:17-25 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 1 Corinthians 15:19-26
John 20:1-18
March services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
3 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: Harvey Yoder Carry-in Meal
17 Location: Family Life Resource Center 273 Newman Ave 432-0531
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Elly Nelson Carry-in Finger Food Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Meal
31 Location: Easter Sunrise Service Guy & Margie Vlasits 908-0391
8 am Easter meditation by Harvey Yoder, followed by Easter singing and with a breakfast at 9:30 am.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Jesus Did Not Come to Establish a Temple-Based Religion
The following is an excerpt from Garry Wills’ book, WHAT JESUS MEANT, (Viking Press 2006)
When Jesus drives the merchants from the Temple, onlookers challenge him, “What authorization can you produce for doing this?” He responds: Destroy this Temple and in three days I will raise it again.” The Jews scoff at the mere idea of rebuilding the Temple in three days: “Construction of the Temple has taken forty-six years.” But the gospel adds: “The Temple he referred to was his body” John 2:21
The Temple of Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans in 70 C.E., and it never rose again. But Jesus had already loosened it from its moorings...
Jesus did not come to replace the Temple with other buildings, whether huts or cathedrals, but to instill a religion of the heart, with only himself as the place where we encounter the Father. At first one might think Jesus would not recognize most of what calls itself religion today. But, on second thought, it would probably look all too familiar, perpetuating the very things he criticized in the cleanliness code, the Sabbath rules, the sacrifices, and the Temple. It was natural, therefore, for religion to kill him, since he was its foe.
His followers would be killed for the same reason. Stephan, the first martyr, is stoned for predicting the destruction of the Temple Acts 6:14). Stephan tells his executioners what Jesus told the Samaritan woman: “The Most High does not live in houses constructed by human hand. Rather, as the prophet says, ‘Heaven is my throne, and earth my footstool’ ” (Acts 7:48-49).
What is the kind of religion Jesus opposed? Any religion that is proud of its virtue, like the boastful Pharisee. Any that is self-righteous, quick to judge and condemn, ready to impose burdens rather than share or lift them. Any that exalts its own officers, proud of its trappings, building expensive monuments to itself. Any that neglects the poor and cultivates the rich, any that scorns outcasts and flatters the rulers of this world. If that sounds like just about every form of religion that we know, then we can see how far off from religion Jesus stood.
When Jesus drives the merchants from the Temple, onlookers challenge him, “What authorization can you produce for doing this?” He responds: Destroy this Temple and in three days I will raise it again.” The Jews scoff at the mere idea of rebuilding the Temple in three days: “Construction of the Temple has taken forty-six years.” But the gospel adds: “The Temple he referred to was his body” John 2:21
The Temple of Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans in 70 C.E., and it never rose again. But Jesus had already loosened it from its moorings...
Jesus did not come to replace the Temple with other buildings, whether huts or cathedrals, but to instill a religion of the heart, with only himself as the place where we encounter the Father. At first one might think Jesus would not recognize most of what calls itself religion today. But, on second thought, it would probably look all too familiar, perpetuating the very things he criticized in the cleanliness code, the Sabbath rules, the sacrifices, and the Temple. It was natural, therefore, for religion to kill him, since he was its foe.
His followers would be killed for the same reason. Stephan, the first martyr, is stoned for predicting the destruction of the Temple Acts 6:14). Stephan tells his executioners what Jesus told the Samaritan woman: “The Most High does not live in houses constructed by human hand. Rather, as the prophet says, ‘Heaven is my throne, and earth my footstool’ ” (Acts 7:48-49).
What is the kind of religion Jesus opposed? Any religion that is proud of its virtue, like the boastful Pharisee. Any that is self-righteous, quick to judge and condemn, ready to impose burdens rather than share or lift them. Any that exalts its own officers, proud of its trappings, building expensive monuments to itself. Any that neglects the poor and cultivates the rich, any that scorns outcasts and flatters the rulers of this world. If that sounds like just about every form of religion that we know, then we can see how far off from religion Jesus stood.
Family of Hope--Who Are We?
We are a small group of Christians who live in and around
Harrisonburg, Virginia. We meet in one of our homes each Sunday at 4 pm
for our regular time of worship (we like to sing!), and for prayer,
Bible study and a carry-in meal.
As far as beliefs are concerned, we affirm the ancient creeds of the church and the core beliefs of the sixteenth century Anabaptist wing of Reformation. Like them, we stress voluntary believers baptism as a pledge of our covenant to follow the teachings of Christ to the best of our ability. Each member renews the following covenant each year on Pentecost Sunday, as follows:
"I support the goals, vision and faith of Family of Hope, will attend weekly services as regularly as I am able, and will use my gifts and offer my encouragement to this church family to the best of my ability. I invite other members to support me--and to confront me as needed--in being faithful to this commitment."
While we see ourselves first of all as members of God's worldwide family, we are linked with the Mennonite family of churches in seeking to follow Christ's example of living a life of simplicity, generosity and nonviolence. Our giving helps support that denomination's mission, relief, education and publishing efforts.
Since we have no paid staff, have few operating expenses, and do not own or rent any real estate, we are able to use almost all of our $18,000 congregational budget each year for charity and for mission outreach as decided on by our members. A four member leadership team meets monthly to plan for our services, but most major church decisions are made by the whole group. We have no other committees or boards.
Since 1987, our aim has been to experience church in its simplest, most basic form, as a group of people gathering each week to worship and scattering each week to serve.
Harvey Yoder, pastor
harvyoder@gmail.com
As far as beliefs are concerned, we affirm the ancient creeds of the church and the core beliefs of the sixteenth century Anabaptist wing of Reformation. Like them, we stress voluntary believers baptism as a pledge of our covenant to follow the teachings of Christ to the best of our ability. Each member renews the following covenant each year on Pentecost Sunday, as follows:
"I support the goals, vision and faith of Family of Hope, will attend weekly services as regularly as I am able, and will use my gifts and offer my encouragement to this church family to the best of my ability. I invite other members to support me--and to confront me as needed--in being faithful to this commitment."
While we see ourselves first of all as members of God's worldwide family, we are linked with the Mennonite family of churches in seeking to follow Christ's example of living a life of simplicity, generosity and nonviolence. Our giving helps support that denomination's mission, relief, education and publishing efforts.
Since we have no paid staff, have few operating expenses, and do not own or rent any real estate, we are able to use almost all of our $18,000 congregational budget each year for charity and for mission outreach as decided on by our members. A four member leadership team meets monthly to plan for our services, but most major church decisions are made by the whole group. We have no other committees or boards.
Since 1987, our aim has been to experience church in its simplest, most basic form, as a group of people gathering each week to worship and scattering each week to serve.
Harvey Yoder, pastor
harvyoder@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
February 2013 Newsletter
House-to-House
Family of Hope House Church February 2013
Worship Services Should Never Be Boring
As a child I well remember being bored stiff in the insufferably long church services we attended every Sunday morning. My young mind traversed the globe thinking of ways to make the time go faster.
As an adult I still experience an occasional lack of joyful and rapt attention in a service, with my mind wandering to the carry-in meal that’s always a part of our weekly gatherings!
Yet I sincerely believe that all worship gatherings can be times we truly look forward to if we regularly experience the following:
1. Everyone is greeted with a warm, embracing welcome. This may or may not include the Biblical “holy kiss”, but certainly a greeting that is a genuine and loving equivalent.
2. We are free to “share our mutual woes, our mutual burdens bear.” None of us needs to ever leave our gatherings with the same weight of troubles we brought with us. We are extravagantly loved and fervently prayed for as needed.
3. We recognize that every scriptural passage, every Bible story, every hymn text, every responsive reading we use has had some kind of powerful impact on an individual or group at some point in time, so much so that it merited inclusion as worship and learning material to be preserved and passed on. So we savor each as having the power to truly inspire and bless. If we feel bored instead, it may be because we have not imaginatively immersed ourselves in the text.
4. Each of us regularly contributes encouragements, hymns, readings, and/or teachings to our weekly “carry-in” service, rather than just being passive consumers of professionally prepared services.
5. We have good love feasts together on a regular basis, with every meal celebrated as a form of Eucharist.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Trish Levesque 2/23, at17600 14th Avenue North, Apt. 127, Plymouth, MN 55447-2951.
THE CHRISTMAS HEIFER PROJECT OFFERING was $1000! Last year’s offering was $491.25.
CONTACT RACHEL STOLTZFUS at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470, or accameds@gmail.com.
AT OUR FOH BUSINESS MEETING the congregation approved a 2013 budget of $18,000 for 2013.
HARVEY AND ALMA JEAN will be with daughter Joanna and family in Rochester, NY, February1-7.
PRAY FOR ALMA JEAN YODER, who is scheduled for a knee replacement February 25.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
February lectionary readings
3 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Psalm 71:1-6 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Luke 4:21-30
10 Exodus 34:29-35 Psalm 99 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2 Luke 9:28-43
17 Deut 26:1-11 Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 Romans 10:8b-13 Luke 4:1-13
24 Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 Psalm 27 Philippians 3:17–4:1 Luke 13:31-35
February services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
3 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
17 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Finger Food Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Ellie Nelson Carry-in Meal
Family of Hope House Church February 2013
Worship Services Should Never Be Boring
As a child I well remember being bored stiff in the insufferably long church services we attended every Sunday morning. My young mind traversed the globe thinking of ways to make the time go faster.
As an adult I still experience an occasional lack of joyful and rapt attention in a service, with my mind wandering to the carry-in meal that’s always a part of our weekly gatherings!
Yet I sincerely believe that all worship gatherings can be times we truly look forward to if we regularly experience the following:
1. Everyone is greeted with a warm, embracing welcome. This may or may not include the Biblical “holy kiss”, but certainly a greeting that is a genuine and loving equivalent.
2. We are free to “share our mutual woes, our mutual burdens bear.” None of us needs to ever leave our gatherings with the same weight of troubles we brought with us. We are extravagantly loved and fervently prayed for as needed.
3. We recognize that every scriptural passage, every Bible story, every hymn text, every responsive reading we use has had some kind of powerful impact on an individual or group at some point in time, so much so that it merited inclusion as worship and learning material to be preserved and passed on. So we savor each as having the power to truly inspire and bless. If we feel bored instead, it may be because we have not imaginatively immersed ourselves in the text.
4. Each of us regularly contributes encouragements, hymns, readings, and/or teachings to our weekly “carry-in” service, rather than just being passive consumers of professionally prepared services.
5. We have good love feasts together on a regular basis, with every meal celebrated as a form of Eucharist.
- Harvey Yoder
Notes, prayers and praises
FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS to Trish Levesque 2/23, at17600 14th Avenue North, Apt. 127, Plymouth, MN 55447-2951.
THE CHRISTMAS HEIFER PROJECT OFFERING was $1000! Last year’s offering was $491.25.
CONTACT RACHEL STOLTZFUS at 6516 Lone Oak Ct., Bethesda, MD 20817, 301-493-4470, or accameds@gmail.com.
AT OUR FOH BUSINESS MEETING the congregation approved a 2013 budget of $18,000 for 2013.
HARVEY AND ALMA JEAN will be with daughter Joanna and family in Rochester, NY, February1-7.
PRAY FOR ALMA JEAN YODER, who is scheduled for a knee replacement February 25.
GET FOH UPDATES at http:/familyofhopehousechurch.blogpost.com.
February lectionary readings
3 Jeremiah 1:4-10 Psalm 71:1-6 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Luke 4:21-30
10 Exodus 34:29-35 Psalm 99 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2 Luke 9:28-43
17 Deut 26:1-11 Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 Romans 10:8b-13 Luke 4:1-13
24 Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 Psalm 27 Philippians 3:17–4:1 Luke 13:31-35
February services (worship at 4, meal at 6)
3 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: James Stauffer
Bible Study: Paul Swarr Carry-in Meal
10 Location: Guy & Margie Vlasits 3448 Caverns Dr., K’town 908-0391
Worship and Sharing: Guy and Margie Vasits
Bible Study: James Stauffer Carry-in Meal
17 Location: James & Ruth Stauffer 1250 Parkway Dr 22802 574-6141
Worship and Sharing: Harvey Yoder
Bible Study: Dick Dumas Carry-in Finger Food Meal
24 Location: Susan Campbell 1361 Lincolnshire Dr 22802 564-1524
Worship and Sharing: Susan Campbell
Bible Study: Ellie Nelson Carry-in Meal
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