(Above image: the team from La Providencia who came to work for their neighbors. Also pictured: Jenny Miler, Mary Goblish, and Jay Substad who worked on their project last year.)

By Brian Martin, Director of Children, Youth, and Family

Dear Church Family,

I recently returned from my trip to Honduras with Agua Viva, where I traveled with a handful of other amazing people from (and not from) FCC. Some of you have also had the pleasure of experiencing a trip with Agua Viva, or similar experiences that required you to confront the realities of what it means to love God and love others in a cross-cultural, poverty-stricken situation.

As usual on a trip such as this, God was working and moving in ways that I never knew or would have anticipated. For me, I saw God moving in incredible ways. Indulge me briefly as I share my favorite story from the week.

On our second day of trenching work (we were digging trenches to lay PVC pipe that will eventually bring water from a clean source to homes that have never had access less than a long walk away), a group of men showed up to work. They were not from the village in which we were staying (La Vainilla), but another village (La Providencia). This was not a next-door-neighbor village, but one that was about an hour walk through the mountains from where we were. The men had come to work for the day, to help a community they knew nothing about and had nothing to do with. Why? Because the men visiting from La Providencia were from a village that was blessed by an Agua Viva water project last year, and they heard that the North Americans were back to help someone else.

The men from La Providencia worked all day on Tuesday, having walked away from their own families and their own farms for the day – a big sacrifice. And at the end of the day, they let us know they would back again. Again on Thursday, they worked all day to bless strangers. On Thursday night, there was a town meeting, and the leader of Providencia got up to share. He said (in Spanish, of course) “We came here to help you because we experienced God’s love through our water project, and we wanted to show you God’s love, too. All we ask is that if one of your neighbor’s needs help, that you will help them.”

It was an amazing moment. God was present, and in this case, his hands and feet were represented by ten men from a remote Honduran village who had simply experienced God’s love through the service of others.

When Christians actually act like Christians, it is the most beautiful thing in the world. How are you serving this week to show the love of God to someone who needs to experience his love?

And now, here are some things happening around FCC. Get out your calendars, people!

 

Worship Night - Friday November 22

This last Easter we were blessed by a woman named Shelby Makay, who led worship with Jon Oney. Shelby has agreed with her band to lead a free worship night celebrating with us the joy of Thanksgiving. This is a opportunity to come together as a church and worship the God who gives us acess to unsinkable joy and what we have been talking about in this series. It is going to be a great night. Starts at 7pm and doors open at 6:30pm. See you there!

Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service

Join us on Wednesday, November 27 at 6:30pm for our Thanksgiving Eve Service and Hymn Sing, then stay for pie and fellowship in the Legacy Chapel afterwards. Childcare available for children under age 4.

Advent Event - December 1

Everyone is invited to this year's Advent Event. Make plans to join us Sunday, December 1 in room 100 as we mark the beginning of the Advent Season. The morning is "open house" style beginning at 9:30am and ending at 12 noon. Drop in before or after you attend service, but leave enough time to participate in all the fun activities. The event is free of charge and no registration is required, so remember to bring a friend along. We look forward to seeing you!

Hope Sunday - December 8

We are joining the greater circle of Covenant Churches and World Vision in taking a serious look at how we might help children in the poorest country in the world: the Congo. During this Christmas season as we participate in Hope Sunday, we encourage you to join with us. There are three major areas we are focusing on to prepare our hearts for this event:  1) personally take a “Do Something” card and consider something you might give up to sponsor a child in the Congo; 2) as a small group watch “58: The Film”; or 3) support a single-mother family by supporting our M.O.M.S. ministry bake sale in the lobby. For more information stop by the Hope Sunday Table in the lobby. 

I believe many of us have heard Solomon's wisdom quoted at weddings, "A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiates 4:12.  While the author's original intent appears to be on the wisdom and strength in numbers, it provides a great analogy in wedding homilies that Jesus has to be the third cord in a marriage that prospers and endures.  If I can take a little liberty, I think it provides a helpful picture of what makes a strong and vibrant church.  What I love about the Evangelical Covenant is that our birthplace as a denomination was a beautiful marriage and symmetry of both the Word of God and the Spirit of God.  Churches fall somewhere on the spectrum of their emphasis on the Word of God on one end and the Holy Spirit on the other.  A healthy and thriving church will be more grounded near the center lifting up the necessity and practice of both.  In having a wonderful conversation with missionary Larry Smoak, I was made aware of a third cord that I often forget to include: Service.  Truly, if we are grounded in the Word of God and relying on the Holy Spirit to live the life of Christ, then we are going to be living lives of service in the love and joy of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Hope Sunday on December 8th, is a wonderful way we can lean more into the gift and call of service this Christmas season.  Along with every other Covenant Church, we've been invited to participate in the Covenant Kids Congo Project:  This is a partnership with the Evangelical Covenant and World Vision to reach 10,000 child sponsorships in the poorest country and region in the world: the Congo.  Sunday December 8th is our Hope Sunday dedicated to the need and opportunity to individually pledge to sponsor kids in the Congo, and our church's goal is sponsor between 75-100 kids in the Congo.

In order to prepare for a great Hope Sunday, there are a few things to engage and help strengthen this cord of service and compassion:
1) Do Something -  these are cards we've had in bulletins for a couple weeks.  This a challenge to pray about something as individuals/families we can give up, and what we want to give in order to "do something" in order to end extreme poverty.   As God gives you something to give up, please add your card to the collage of cards in the lobby.
2) 58: The Film - This is a film aimed at ending extreme poverty in our world.  As a way to engage and prepare our hearts for Hope Sunday, we're asking every small group at FCC watch this movie before Dec. 8th.  DVD's can be picked up in the church lobby or you can watch online: www.live58.org
3) Mission Gifts - As well as the opportunity to sign up for Covenant Kids Child Sponsorships, we will have a bake sale that benefits the M.O.M.S. program and an Art and Gift shop that will benefit FCC Missions programs.  While we can't do everything, we can all do something.  And as we take the Do Something challenge, may we as families and individuals take the opportunity on Hope Sunday to seriously consider doing something to end extreme poverty and buy Christmas presents that bless mission partners around the world.

In It Together,
Pastor John

Check out what's happening at FCC:

Altar Prayer Ministry Training
If you are interested in ministering to people who come forward asking for prayer after worship services, or in becoming more comfortable praying with others in general, we invite you to attend this training opportunity on Saturday, November 16 from 9:30 - 11:30 am. For more information contact Pastor John at [email protected].

Congregational Business Meeting
All who consider Faith their church are invited to attend the fall Congregational Business Meeting on Sunday, November 17 at 12:15pm. We encourage you to invest in this chance to be updated about the things your staff and council are working on. Copies of the agenda for this meeting and minutes from July's Annual Meeting are available at the information counter in the lobby. If you have any business that you would like the council to consider bringing to this meeting, please email [email protected].

Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service
Join us on Wednesday, November 27 at 6:30pm for our Thanksgiving Eve Service and Hymn Sing, then stay for pie and fellowship in the Legacy Chapel afterwards. Childcare available for children under age 4.


Worship Night - Friday November 22
This last Easter we were blessed by a woman named Shelby Makay, who led worship with Jon Oney. Shelby has agreed with her band to lead a free worship night celebrating with us the joy of Thanksgiving. This is a opportunity to come together as a church and worship the God who gives us acess to unsinkable joy and what we have been talking about in this series. It is going to be a great night. Starts at 7pm and doors open at 6:30pm. See you there!

Hi church! Triduum - I’ll bet that’s a word you haven’t heard before! I certainly hadn’t, until this morning. Allow me to expound: Today is Halloween, a day that evokes a variety of thoughts and feelings, some of which have served to polarize even Christians. A trusted friend and seminary student posted a thought-provoking article this morning about the history of Halloween which I found intriguing. For what it’s worth…The Triduum of All Hallows (aka. Hallowmas) was a medieval Christian celebration that spanned three days (October 31-November 2). These days, these celebrations, were titled All Hallows Eve, All Hallows Day, and All Souls Day. The Feast of All Saints, or All Hallows, originated as a day set aside to honor those who had been martyred for their Christian faith. Obviously, cultural tweaks and influences have run this celebration “slightly” off-course, and the original and intended meaning of this day, this week, has largely been lost. Regardless of where you land on the continuum of thoughts and feelings in response to this day, may you remember today, even for a moment, those who have paid the ultimate price for their faith. And remember as well, “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4

**Reminder to "fall back" this weekend! On Sunday morning, daylight savings time begins!

Read below for a few upcoming opportunities:

New Equip Class!
Join us for the 4 week adult equip class: "My Life: God's Plan" starting Sunday, November 3 at 11am in room 230. Everyone is welcome! For questions, contact Monroe Larson at 952.890.1912.

Erika Simpkins Missions Update
Come hear Erika  share what has been happening in her life as a YWAM missionary in Perth, Australia on Sunday, November 10 at 12:15pm.

Faith Congregational Business Meeting
All who consider Faith their church are invited to attend the fall Congregational Business Meeting on Sunday, November 17 at 12:15pm. We encourage you to invest in this chance to be updated about the things your staff and council are working on. Copies of the agenda for this meeting and minutes from July's Annual Meeting are available at the information counter in the lobby. If you have any business that you would like the council to consider bringing to this meeting, email [email protected].

 3rd Grade Bibles
Each year Children’s Ministry and Faith Covenant Church are honored to partner with our families in the presentation of a Bible to each of our 3rd grade students. This year we will offer a special Bible presentation ceremony in room 200 on Sunday, November 17. Parents please watch for a letter with information for you regarding this service. If you feel we do not have current information for your family, please contact Children’s Ministry.

Thanksgiving Eve Hymn Sing/Pie Social
Plan to join us for a combined hymn sing/worship service in our Worship Center on Wednesday, November 27 at 6:30pm. Service is followed by a pie social in our newly re-purposed Legacy Chapel.

Christmas Bake Sale 
MOMS will be hosting a Bake Sale on Sunday, December 8 and are currently taking pre-orders for Krumkake and Lefse @ $5.00 each. Please contact MOMS at 952.890.5072 or [email protected] to reserve yours today (otherwise we can't guarantee availability). Also, if you are interested in joining us for baking sessions in the Faith kitchen to donate to the bake sale, please contact MOMS. It will be a great time of fun, food and fellowship!

Adult Retreats at Covenant Pines
If you are interested in quilting or in joining with other Covenant church men for a weekend of fellowship, check out the November retreats offered by Covenant Pines Bible Camp in McGregor MN. Each offers time away from the busy distractions of life while experiencing God’s creation and connecting with friends. More information and registration is available at www.covenantpines.org.

May God's peace guide and guard you as we enter another holiday season!         - Pastor Char

I've got to say I was blown away this last weekend. We saw people from all ages and backgrounds come and be baptized. We baptized over 20 people! Praise God for that! He is still moving and still turning hearts towards himself!

With that said, I do want to take a moment to chat with you about something that is on my heart. I know this series, “Don’t Move The Lamp Stand,” was a little challenging for me. Some weeks were down right hard. I know I needed to take a look and my heart and examine to see where I took the light off of Jesus and onto myself. 

Over the next couple months, we are going to be going through series on joy. I know the word joy is somewhat synonymous with happiness in many peoples’ eyes. Happiness is a feeling that comes from the physical world around us, like — I  got a new boat so now I feel a temporary feeling of satisfaction or pleasure. Joy on the other hand comes from the work of God in you and spills over to the outside. For instance, God is working in your life and you can feel him changing your heart even though you might not be in the best situation. But how do we experience joy amidst life's toughest storms? We will be exploring questions like this in our search to find unsinkable joy.

I think that about does it Faithers. Don’t for get Love Burnsville is this Sunday. We will have a short service at 9:30am and service projects following. Show up in your work clothes and prepare to rake some leaves! Come back at 12:30pm for a meal.

PS. Did you try the coffee in the coffee shop yet? It’s new and good. Try a mocha or a turtle for $1. See you this weekend!

-JON ONEY

HERE IS WHAT IS COMING UP AT FAITH
Thanksgiving Eve Service & Hymn Sing
Faith Covenant is hosting a night of worship November 22 at 7pm. We have been in this series "Unsinkable joy" and one of the greatest ways we can experience joy is in worship of our creator. Some of you remember Shelby who lead worship with Jon Oney last Easter. She has been out on tour, touring the country with her band One Accord. They will be here leading us in worship on this evening of worship you do not want to miss. Come out and join us for this free event and time where we can express our gratitude back to God for the joy he has given us.

3rd Grade Bibles
Each year Children’s Ministry and Faith Covenant Church are honored to partner with our families in the presentation of a Bible to each of our 3rd grade students. This year we will offer a special Bible presentation ceremony in room 200 on November 17. Parents please watch for a letter with information for you regarding this service. If you feel we do not have current information for your family, please contact Children’s Ministry.

Christmas Bake Sale and Krumkake/Lefse Pre-order
MOMS will be hosting a Bake Sale on Sunday, December 8 and are currently taking pre-orders for Krumkake and Lefse @ $5.00 each. Please contact MOMS at 952.890.5072 or [email protected] to reserve yours today (otherwise we can't guarantee availability). Also, if you are interested in joining us for Krumkake Baking Night on November 1, or at another baking session, please contact MOMS. It will be a great time of fun, food and fellowship!

Hymn Sing Sign-up
Have you been itching to sing some of the hymns again? We are gearing up again for our bi-annual hymn sing, happening Wednesday November 27th. And we need you! We have had over 40 of you volunteers for our hymn sing choir lead by Gary Nyquist from Hymn Sing America. We need you again and we are asking for more of you. We are trying to get to a 50 person choir. There will be two rehearsals on Tuesday November 19th @ 6:30pm in room 200 and Saturday Nov. 23rd from 9:00am - Noon. The date of the Hymn Sing will be Wednesday November 27th at 6:30pm. Come join us and sing some of the old favorites.

Sunday Adult Equip Class
Join us for the 4 week adult equip class: "My Life: God's Plan" starting Sunday November 3 at 11am in room 230. Everyone welcome. For questions, contact Monroe Larson at 952.890.1912.
 
Faith Connect
Whether this is your first Sunday at Faith or you have been kicking the tires around here for a while, we want to invite you to our Faith Connect lunch today at 12:15pm in room 200. This is intended to give you information about our church, answer questions, and point you in the right direction to get involved with a small group or volunteering. Childcare will be provided.

Hello Faith Covenant Family!

I’m writing to you this morning from McGregor, MN and Covenant Pines Bible Camp. The air is crisp (aka cold), the leaves are colorful, and the Junior High students are bringing life into a usually quiet camp.

You know what I love about junior high kids? Their passion. Junior High kids don’t just like something, they LOVE it (or hate it…we usually aren’t sure which…). That’s why it’s so important to do things like get away for a weekend at camp to focus on their relationship with God. Because we want to create environments and opportunities for the passion of our young people to be correctly aimed at Jesus.

Where is your passion aimed? How much passion do you have in your relationship with Christ? If you don’t have any passion when you think about Christ, what happened? And what can you do to get it back?

We would appreciate your prayers for our students this weekend (Junior High Oct 16-18; Senior High Oct 18-20)!

Here are some things coming soon at Faith Covenant:

Love Burnsville

Faith Families: make a note to attend the single worship service at 9:30am on October 27!  There will be NO 11:00 SERVICE ON OCTOBER 27. Instead, starting after the conclusion of the 9:30 service, we will have service worship by raking leaves for people in our community who need a little help. You can join by being on a raking team, being on the prayer/missions team, or by watching our youngest children while older children and parents rake. Sign up in the lobby this Sunday!

Love Burnsville Details for Children’s Ministry/Childcare:

There will be regular children's programing (ages 0-5th grade) during the 9:30 service only On October 27. During the Love Burnsville segment we will offer childcare up through age 5 for the families who are participating. Please RSVP to Erin Foley at [email protected] with child's name and age. Parents please have a cellphone turned on and accessible at all times so that we can reach you easily. Please drive separately to your raking location, so you can leave if needed and arrive on time for pick up. Pick up time is at 1pm. A lunch of grilled cheese sandwiches, chips and pudding will be served to your child(ren).  Please bring your own snacks or lunch if your child has special dietary needs. We will be bringing the older children outside to play, so please dress them warmly and bring a jacket with them! Thank you so much for your help in making Love Burnsville a great day!

Hymn Sing

Have you been itching to sing some hymns again? We are gearing up for our bi-annual hymn sing, led by Gary Nyquist from Hymn Sing America and we need you! In the past we have had over 40 volunteers for our hymn sing choir and we would love to have a 50 person choir. Hymn Sing night is Wednesday November 27th at 6:30 pm with rehearsals on Tuesday November 19th @ 6:30pm and Saturday November 23rd from 9am - Noon. Come join us and sing some of the old favorites. Contact Carrie to RSVP at [email protected].

Paid Childcare

We are in need of 2 adults from 6:15-8:30 on Tuesday evenings to watch some amazing kids during one of our adult classes. These are paid positions at $10/hour. Please contact Erin Foley at [email protected] or 952.890.3110 if you are interested.

Children’s Ministry Volunteers

We are so excited to be a part of God’s plan to impact our children for him, and we want you to join us in that privilege! Children’s Ministry is looking for people who love Jesus and love kids to join our team. We are looking for positions on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings. See below for details. Please contact Vicki Newendorp ([email protected]) for Elementary or Hospitality areas and Erin Foley ([email protected]) for Kindergarten and Nursery inquiries.

Role: Elementary Team
Days: Sundays, twice a month (or weekly)
Times: 11:00am service
Responsibilities: Do crafts, have fun, play games, ask questions, share scripture

Role: Preschool/Kindergarten Team
Days: Sundays, twice a month (or weekly)
Times: 9:30am and 11:00am service
Responsibilities: Facilitate Preschool/Kindergarten class with Bible story, free play, and snack

Role: Elementary Small Group Leaders, Preschool/Kindergarten Leaders
Days: Wednesdays (weekly or twice per month, through April)
Times: 11:00am service
Responsibilities: Build relationships, earn trust, have fun, do activities, discuss scripture, ask questions, help students grow

Role: Hospitality and Registration Team
Days: Sundays, twice a month (or weekly)
Times: 9:15-9:45am and/or 10:45-11:15am
Responsibilities: Great warmly, create sense of hospitality, help new families, aid with computer registration (do NOT have to be computer savvy – we can train you!)

Junior High/Senior High Parent Night October 23

Hey parents: We’d love you to join us for our special Parent Night on October 23 at Revolution (6:30-8:00) and Fusion (7:30-9:15). We have been in a series called “Evolve” that has been focusing on families, how they change, and how they grow. While you are here, you will experience teaching on families, a great time of musical worship, and a special parents-only small group discussion. We would love it if you could join us! Contact Brian Martin with any questions ([email protected]).

Here’s some news from some of our partners:

Beautiful You Fall Brunch

You are invited to the 3rd Annual M.O.M.S. Program Beautiful You Fall Brunch on Saturday, October 26th, 10am-noon. Enjoy a morning of great food & fellowship, a fun fashion show and an inspirational message. Tickets are on sale at Faith or by contacting MOMS at 952-890-5072 or [email protected]. Cost is $15, advance tickets are required. M.O.M.S is a faith-based mentoring program to equip single mothers with the skills, education & support needed to build & maintain healthy, stable homes for their children. 

MOMS Christmas Bake Sale: ORDER YOUR KRUMKAKE OR LEFSE NOW

MOMS will be hosting a Bake Sale on Sunday, December 8 and are currently taking pre-orders for Krumkake and Lefse @ $5.00 each. Please contact MOMS at 952.890.5072 or [email protected] to reserve yours today (otherwise we can't guarantee availability). Also, if you are interested in joining us for Krumkake Baking Night on November 1, or at another baking session, please contact MOMS. It will be a great time of fun, food and fellowship!

 Dear FCC family,

It's almost that time to start raking leaves...I can't wait for the time that we as an entire church body get to bless our community by either raking leaves or doing some service projects right at FCC.  This year our Love Burnsville event is expanding to include a global as well as local focus of service.  Evangelical Covenant President Gary Walter has invited our church to be apart of a special coalition of churches to help close the gap in World Vision Child sponsorships in the African Congo.  On October 27th, we will be hearing about the need for Child sponsorships in the poorest country in the world, the Congo.  Maple Grove Covenant pastor, Chad Erlenborn, will be sharing about his experience in the Congo and preparing our hearts for our Hope Sunday, December 8th.  This Sunday will be dedicated to child sponsorships in the Congo, and promises to be a wonderful opportunity near Christmas to share God's love with those who need it most.

For all the exciting ministry opportunities God is giving us, please check them out below...

Blessings,
Pastor John Foley

Love Burnsville
At the conclusion of our worship service on October 27(one at 9:30am), Faith Covenant will have service worship by raking leaves for people in our community who need a little help. You can join by being on a raking team, preparing/ serving food that teams will enjoy after raking, being on the mission/prayer team, or watching children. Sign up on your bulletin insert or in the lobby this weekend!

Hymn Sing
Have you been itching to sing some hymns again? We are gearing up for our bi-annual hymn sing, led by Gary Nyquist from Hymn Sing America and we need you! In the past we have had over 40 volunteers for our hymn sing choir and we would love to have a 50 person choir. Hymn Sing night is Sunday November 24th at 4 pm with rehearsals on Tuesday November 19th @ 6:30pm and Saturday November 23rd from 9am - Noon. Come join us and sing some of the old favorites. Contact Carrie to RSVP at [email protected].

Beautiful You Fall Brunch
You are invited to the 3rd Annual M.O.M.S. Program Beautiful You Fall Brunch on Saturday, October 26th, 10am-noon. Enjoy a morning of great food & fellowship, a fun fashion show and an inspirational message. Tickets will be on sale October 6 at Faith or contact MOMS at 952-890-5072 or [email protected]. Cost is $15, advance tickets are required. M.O.M.S is a faith-based mentoring program to equip single mothers with the skills, education & support needed to build & maintain healthy, stable homes for their children. 

Believer's Baptism
We are in awe of God's movement here at Faith, drawing individuals to Himself - praise God for 32 people baptized in June! We're trusting God to call and prepare others to surrender their lives to Him and, in anticipation, believer baptisms will take place during worship on Sunday, October 20. A preparation class will be available (encouraged but not required) on Sunday, October 13 at 10:30am in the Life Group Room

Prayer Simulcast
Join us for an opportunity to gather with the body of Christ to pray for our nation by way of a PRAYER SIMULCAST sponsored by National Day of Prayer. Event is at Hillside Church in Bloomington on October 18 & 19. For an agenda and more information go to www.prayercastlive.com or contact Sharon at 952.890.6749

Human Trafficking Awareness Seminar
If you would like to know how you can make a difference in human trafficking, join us at Faith on Saturday, October 19 from 9am to 1pm. This seminar includes 3 main speakers, 2 breakout sessions and the "Take a Number" Art Exhibit. Tickets available on-line at AnnexNetwork.org. If you are an attender at Faith, you qualify for the student rate. This event is hosted by Faith4Freedom Abolition Ministry. If you have any questions please contact Deb at[email protected].

“Don’t be scared cause God be with you.”

I woke abruptly to his little scream.  It was three in the morning and my wife and I could hear our two-year old son crying from his room.  I was feeling a bit guilty that my wife takes most of the night shifts so I figured I’d get this one.

I stumbled down the hallway to his room and my heart was moved.  A tearful, desperate little face looked up at mine and exclaimed, “I scared daddy…I scared.”  I did what you would do. I picked him up and pulled his little face close to mine. But then I said something that was as much for me as it was for him.  Drowsily but confidently I told my son, ”You don’t need to be scared…and do you know why?”  A sobbing “no” came back. “You don’t need to be scared because God is with you.” Eventually we got back to sleep and this episode was forgotten….so I thought.

Several days later I froze when I heard my little boy give his very unhappy baby brother some advice.  He said to the crying infant, “Don’t be scared brother cause God be with you.” Kid’s are awesome. They get the important stuff so much faster than we adults do.

So with the humility of a kid, admit it.  You have been the one frozen in fear or grief haven’t you?  And most likely you have been the one trying to find the right words to comfort someone else in that state.  But even if you know the right words do you really believe them? Do I?

The combination of words that came out of my mouth in the middle of the night are as true as they are critical to believe.  “Don’t be afraid, God is with You.” It took me hearing one son repeat those words to another to really think about how powerful this claim is.  It took that to show me that sometimes I say God is with me but don’t fully act as if that is true.

As a part of Faith Covenant Church I suspect you are a Christ-follower.  If you are then you believe on some level that God is indeed with you.  But to what degree to you believe that?  Do you experience God in tangible ways?  One writer suggested that people experience God with them in three practical ways.

1) I know God is with me because I’m aware of his Presence: “I have set the Lord always before me” (Psalm 16:9). Do you realize that what you direct your thought towards influences your ability to perceive the presence of God?  Does God feel distant? Try thinking on God more.  Turn the T.V. off and focus on thoughts about God. You can do this by reading Scripture in a way that asks God to reveal Himself to you. You can do this by journaling on your thoughts to God. You can do this simply by talking to God. But the main thing is to put your mind on God.

2) I know God is with me because I’m aware of his Provision:  Do you know how to tell the difference between your wants and your needs? And if you do, have you made it a habit to present your needs to God?  Simply asking Him to meet those needs grows your ability to sense God.  Doing this, asking God to provide for what he knows that you need, is a practical way we come to know that God is with us.  Try to pay attention to the ways that God has provided for your needs in your past.  Look backwards and identify God’s provision. Having done that look forward—anticipate God will provide what you need—even if you don’t know you need it.

3) I know God is with me because I’m aware of His Power: Want to know God is with you?  Try this: attempt to do something that pleases God but that scares you.  Do something you know you could not likely do without God’s power working through you. Maybe it is sharing your faith? Maybe it is offering forgiveness to someone?  As you do, ask God to work through you.  When you are finished you will see how real God is—how near God is.  And seeing this, you will no longer be afraid.

Faith Covenant, God is better at being a dad than I am.  When you cry out God is always near. Do you perceive him picking you up? Do you see Him providing for you? Do you sense His power in the success you can’t take credit for?  God is with you so don’t be scared.

Please read below for some things happening at Faith:
Human Trafficking Awareness Seminar
If you would like to know how you can make a difference in human trafficking, join us at Faith on Saturday, October 19 from 9am to 1pm for an awareness seminar. It will include 3 main speakers, 2 breakout sessions and the "Take a Number" Art Exhibit. Tickets available on-line at AnnexNetwork.org. If you are an attender at Faith, you qualify for the student rate. This event is hosted by Faith4Freedom Abolition Ministry. If you have any questions please contact Deb [email protected].

Agua Viva Dinner
A team of people will be going to Honduras on November 1-9, 2013 to build a gravity fed water system, build relationships and spread the good news of Jesus Christ, the Living Water. If you are interested in learning more about this ministry and having fellowship with the group, a dinner is being held on Saturday, October 12 at 6pm at Faith Covenant. To reserve your seats, please call Jay Substad at 952.412.7682. (A free will offering will be taken.)

Believer Baptism
We are in awe of God's movement here at Faith, drawing individuals to Himself - praise God for 32 people baptized in June! We're trusting God to call and prepare others to surrender their lives to Him and, in anticipation, believer baptisms will take place during worship on Sunday, October 20. A preparation class will be available (encouraged but not required) on Sunday, October 13 at 10:30am in the Life Group Room.

Beautiful You Fall Brunch
You are invited to the 3rd Annual M.O.M.S. Program Beautiful You Fall Brunch on Saturday, October 26th, 10am-noon. Enjoy a morning of great food & fellowship, a fun fashion show and an inspirational message. Tickets will be on sale October 6 at Faith or contact MOMS at 952-890-5072 or [email protected]. Cost is $15, advance tickets are required. M.O.M.S is a faith-based mentoring program to equip single mothers with the skills, education & support needed to build & maintain healthy, stable homes for their children.
 
Infant Dedication/Baptism
Attention parents! If you desire to have your child either baptized or dedicated, please note the following: A parent class (required) is scheduled for Sunday, October 20 at 9:30am in the Conference Room. A parent application is due to Pastor Char the Monday before class. Contact Jen at [email protected] for additional information and to register. Baptism services are two weeks after class, dedication services are three weeks after class - both at 10:30am in the Legacy Chapel.

Prayer Simulcast
Join us for an opportunity to gather with the body of Christ to pray for our nation by way of a PRAYER SIMULCAST sponsored by National Day of Prayer. Event is at Hillside Church in Bloomington on October 18 & 19. For an agenda and more information go to www.prayercastlive.com or contact Sharon at 952.890.6749.

Hi church! This fall is delightfully busy, full of my favorite things: perfect weather, fall colors soon to arrive, school routines in place… It’s also full of several growing, stretching, and encouraging things: a seminary course immersing me in the History of our faith, a Legacy Chapel being fully utilized (two funerals and a wedding so far, plus various workshops & classes), and evidence of Life in abundance - caring lay ministers opening their hearts to God’s call to love & serve, men young & old meeting at 5:30am for discipleship & encouragement, men & women from within and outside of FCC walking together in Water of Life groups, and individuals seeking God’s will daily through really tough times. God’s kingdom is here, people! God is moving and growing us, both deep and wide. I am thankful to be here in “such a time as this.” Read below for a few upcoming opportunities:

Agua Viva Dinner
A team of people will be going to Honduras from November 1-9, 2013 to build a gravity fed water system, build relationships & spread the good news of Jesus Christ, the Living Water. To learn more about this ministry and have fellowship with the team, a dinner is being held on Saturday, October 12 at 6pm at Faith Covenant. Reserve your seats by calling Jay Substad at 952.412.7682. (A free will offering will be taken)

Infant Dedication/Baptism
Attention parents! If you desire to have your child either baptized or dedicated, please note the following: A parent class (required) is scheduled for Sunday, October 20 at 9:30am in the Conference Room. A parent application is due to Pastor Char the Monday before class. Contact Jen at [email protected] for additional information and to register. Baptism services are two weeks after class, dedication services are three weeks after class - both at 10:30am in the Legacy Chapel.

Believer Baptism
We are in awe of God's movement here at Faith, drawing individuals to Himself - praise God for 32 people baptized in June! We're trusting God to call and prepare others to surrender their lives to Him and, in anticipation, believer baptisms will take place during worship on Sunday, October 20. A preparation class will be available (encouraged but not required) on Sunday, October 6 at 10:30am in the Life Group Room.

Kitchen Volunteers
Do you enjoy helping people celebrate through food, or find reward in comforting mourners by serving them? Our kitchen ministry would love to have you join the team! If you can help prep, serve, or wash dishes for events like Prime Time, weddings, or funerals, please contact Sally at 612.281.3591 or [email protected].

Beautiful You Fall Brunch
You are invited to the 3rd Annual M.O.M.S. Program Beautiful You Fall Brunch on Saturday, October 26th, 10am-noon. Enjoy a morning of great food & fellowship, a fun fashion show and an inspirational message. Tickets will be on sale October 6 at Faith or contact MOMS at 952-890-5072 or [email protected]. Cost is $15, advance tickets are required. M.O.M.S is a faith-based mentoring program to equip single mothers with the skills, education & support needed to build & maintain healthy, stable homes for their children. 

Dance Classes
Kids and teens are invited to FREE dance classes at Faith Covenant on Tuesday evenings. Anyone who wishes to dance is welcome, with no past training or try-outs necessary. Kindergarten – grade 5 meet at 6pm, grades 6 - college meet at 7pm. This is a multi-church ministry sponsored by freedomtodance.org.

See you Sunday morning! Pastor Char

It is an honor to serve the families of our church. I am frequently amazed at this simple fact, and have said aloud more than once “I actually get paid to do this!” I love what I do because I love the Church.

Of course, I haven’t always felt this way, and you haven’t always felt that way either. It is easy to get disenfranchised with the Church. Things don’t go the way we had planned or the way we had hoped, and we get tired of it. We can even get bitter, or angry, or resentful. When we think of church, love is not always the first word that comes to mind.

Church is messy because people are a mess. But thank God for Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross. Thank God for the Spirit living within those who love Him that causes them to love beyond their normal, human capacity.

May you always be able to approach the Church with the love she deserves.

After my meandering thoughts, here are some things happening at FCC:

Faith Membership Class

Whether you're new to Faith Covenant or you've been here awhile, if you're looking for information or for ways to get further connected, you're invited to join us for a two-part membership class. You'll get a chance to meet and talk with the staff, learn about the Covenant denomination and Faith Covenant in more detail, and dialogue with us about what it looks like to be an active part of a local church. Lunch (Sunday morning classes only) and childcare provided. Contact Jen at [email protected] to reserve your spot.

Faith Kids Check-in on Sunday Mornings

Stop by the Faith Kids desk to check your child in and get name tags using our new registration computers.  Every child must have a name tag (including 4th/5th graders) and be checked in at the beginning of the service. 

Infants to Kindergarten (not just through age 4) will spend the entire service in Kid’s Church.  Please drop them off in the Children’s wing at the beginning of service.  

Grades 1–5 will be dismissed during the service.  They will meet in the lobby and head into programming for the remainder of the service hour.  

Parents must pick up all children (including 4th/5th graders) at the end of the service in their Children’s Ministry room. 

Kitchen Team Volunteers

Do you enjoy helping people celebrate through food, or find reward in comforting mourners by serving them? Our kitchen ministry would love to have you join the team! If you can help prep, serve, or wash dishes for events like Prime Time, weddings, or funerals, please contact Sally at 612.281.3591 or [email protected].

Agua Viva Dinner

A team of people will be going to Honduras on November 1-9, 2013 to build a gravity fed water system, build relationships and spread the good news of Jesus Christ, the Living Water. If you are interested in learning more about this ministry and having fellowship with the group, a dinner is being held on Saturday, October 12 at 6pm at Faith Covenant. To reserve your seats, please call Jay Substad at 952.412.7682. (A free will offering will be taken.)

Kids/Teens Dance Class

Kids and teens are invited to FREE dance classes at Faith Covenant on Tuesday evenings. Anyone who wishes to dance is welcome, with no past training or try-outs necessary. Kindergarten - 5th grade meet at 6pm and 6th - college age meet at 7pm. Multi-church ministry, sponsored by freedomtodance.org

Legos?

We want to create spaces for our Children that are irresistible. One way we are hoping to do that is with age-appropriate activities in each of our spaces. We are looking for some Legos for our elementary kid. Any chance you have a big bucket of them sitting in storage that need to be put to good use? If so, please contact Lynn Nunn at [email protected].

Dear Beloved FCC family,