Crossroads Student Ministry 
Weekly Newsletter


October 2017


One great blessing of social media is we're able to be connected to so many folks around the world. For me, this connection is felt particularly strongly during events like the tragedy in Las Vegas that took place on Sunday.

Two friends of mine were in Las Vegas this past weekend. Through Facebook, I learned that they were both safe. Other friends posted tributes and prayers - one for a teacher at her grandson's school and the other for a work colleague and mother of three - who sadly didn't survive. 

There's a beautiful prayer written by Rev. D.G. Hollums, which has helped to uplift me this week, and I hope it may do the same for you and your family:

Dear Lord,
When all we have left to do is cry out in the midst of the pain, give us hope.
When our tears feel like the only way to quench our thirst, remind us of your providing presence.
When loneliness seems overwhelming,
Make your presence known.
This world seems so full of death and destruction, but you are a God of life and restoration.
Mold us into an unwavering people of grace, passion and love that cannot ever be ignored.
Amen.

Let us keep praying. Let our hearts stay open. Let us bring Jesus' shining example of love, service, compassion, and forgiveness to all that we do. Let us strengthen our connection with one another through our steadfast connection with God. 

Peace to All,
Marilyn
There are  THREE Ways to Worship  at Crossroads
Every Week!

Saturday @ 5:15 PM in the basement   

Sunday @ 9AM & 11AM  in the Sanctuary 
SAVE THE DATE!

"Shedding New Light on Raising Teens"
A Workshop for Parents

Sunday, October 15th, 2017
3:00-5:00PM

You're invited to participate in a powerful workshop presented by Heather Kirby (LCSW and CSAC) where you'll l earn new ways to navigate some of the more difficult interactions with your teens and tweens. 

Heather will offer a fresh perspective and effective strategies to help parents to better understand, connect with, and guide their children through the difficult adolescent years - on mental, emotional, and spiritual levels. She'll also address the pressures and anxieties that teens face and how to be supportive, present, and encouraging so they can thrive. This workshop could dramatically enhance your enjoyment of parenting over the next several years!

This workshop is offered free to the community. To secure your seat, please register in advance by emailing Marilyn at [email protected] .

 


Our Pets Bless Us in Countless Ways.
Let's Celebrate & Bless Them Right Back!

Crossroads Underground Presents:
Community Blessing of the Animals

Saturday, October 28th, 4-6PM  in the 
Crossroads Parking Lot

Bring your family and friends - human, furry, scaly, feathery, or otherwise! 
If you're not able to bring your pet in person, we'll happily bless a picture or a favorite toy.

Halloween costumes are welcomed!

We'll be collecting "Love Donations" to support 
Island Dog Rescue of Virginia Beach, who are helping to provide food, safe shelter, and medical care and supplies to dogs, cats, horses, and other animals in need in the Virgin Islands.



Have you ever wondered what it is like to move to a foreign country without knowing the language or culture? 
Or do you wonder why someone would want to do that in the first place?  

CUMC's English as a Second Language (ESL) mission gives you a chance to discover the answers to these questions and more! 
Come share the unlimited welcome of our community with the adult ESL students by helping to care for their children while they are in class.  

Crossroads' students and their friends are invited to assist in childcare on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:00-9:00PM throughout the Fall Semester, which begins this Wednesday and Thursday (September 13th & 14th) and runs through November 16 th .  

Even serving one evening during the semester would be a blessing to all. 
The volunteer hours count toward school club requirements!  

If you are interested in serving in this worthwhile mission, please contact 
Kathy MacKrell at [email protected] .  


Do you play an instrument?
Do you love to sing?
Have you ever thought about being a part of the Sunday Morning Worship Team?

Now's your chance to join the fun as we joyously sing, play, and praise God together! 
Learn new songs, share the stage with an amazing group of world-class musicians, and showcase your talents!

Please contact  Susan Yantis, [email protected]
for more information.

Regular Gatherings 

Intersect


Intersect takes Sunday School to the "next level"!

This week, we're continuing to explore the Old Testament in new ways and to discuss how we can actively listen for God every day.

9AM is Middle School Student Focused
11AM is created with High School Students in Mind


However, Students of either age-group are invited to attend the session of their choice.

See you in the Discipleship Room!