Worshiping Sundays as an Online Faith Community
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10:15 a.m.: Drive-In Worship Service and
Facebook Premiere Worship
Church Office: 980-999-3500
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Weekly Newsletter: September 17, 2020
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We continue to pray for you and the entire Imagine Church family as we enter the sixth month since we suspended in-person worship back in mid-March due to the COVID-19 virus. We pray especially for the 317,000 persons in the Carolinas who have experienced the COVID-19 virus and the 6,144 who have died, along with the 6,540,000 people across the country who have had the virus and the 195,000 who have lost their lives.
Though it has been a very difficult season for us to navigate, Imagine Church has persevered. All of us have had to adapt to this ever-changing reality and learn new ways of doing life and ministry together as a church. Our consistent guidance has been grounded in Matthew 22, the healing ministry of Jesus, and the Lord's commandment to love our neighbor. In a global health crisis, we do this by maintaining a social distance and by honoring many of our older and more vulnerable members.
This past Monday evening, representatives of our various Life Groups met to discuss plans for reconvening our groups for the fall. The Leadership Team meets this Sunday evening to decide on when to reopen indoor worship in the chapel at GCTS. Until that time, we will have outdoor drive-in worship on the new church site the next two Sundays, September 20 and 27. We will have more information in next week's newsletter. Most of all, your staff and church leadership commit to continued prayer with and for you in this time.
Upcoming Events:
Sunday, September 20: THIS SUNDAY!
10:15 a.m. Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship on New Church Site, 5471 Highway 55, East, Lake Wylie
Message: "The Divided States of America, Part 3" by Pastor Bruce
Separate Session for Imagine Nation Youth on Site
6:00 p.m. Leadership Team Meeting on Church Property
Please bring a folding chair or camping chair!
Sunday, September 27:
10:15 a.m. Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship on New Church Site, 5471 Highway 55, East, Lake Wylie
Message: "The Divided States of America, Conclusion" by Pastor Bruce
Separate Sessions for Imagine Kids and Imagine Nation Youth on Site
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Imagine Church Devotional
"Bearing Fruit"
 Have you ever thought of how to define the goal of the Christian life? The goal of Christianity is not that you be gifted, but that you bear fruit. The New Testament calls it "fruit of the Spirit." As the Holy Spirit begins to produce fruit in your life, eventually the final product will be a character that is like that of Jesus Christ. What Jesus wants to produce in you is that the character of your life conforms to his. That's the final work of the Holy Spirit in you and me.
The Holy Spirit is working within you to align the character of Jesus Christ with yours. What will that look like? It will look like nothing less than the life of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. That's what your life will look like; that will describe your character.
When I think about Imagine Church, the last thing I worry about is whether or not we're going to have enough gifted people. We've got more gifted people than any church I know. And I'm grateful for that. But by itself, that's not enough. A church that depends solely on its giftedness will not make it long-term.
 What moves a church to Christlikeness is not our gifts. That which makes a church like Jesus Christ is fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Let us be so dependent, both personally and corporately, upon God's Holy Spirit that when people come to Imagine Church, they will feel something: love and acceptance. And through that love and acceptance, they will come to know their Savior Jesus Christ and their heavenly Father, and through our fruit, we may lead them into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
In the name of the One who can do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
Bruce Jones, Pastor and Co-Creator,
Imagine Church of the Carolinas
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Worship This Week
It was thrilling to be out on the Imagine Church property this past Sunday and to look around thinking of the plans we envision for that holy ground. As Debra Tadlock said Sunday, it's as if God had carved the words "reserved for Imagine Church" on that beautiful 16-acre tract of land. If you missed it, you can watch the service by clicking here, and you also have another chance to experience it as Imagine Church gathers once again for "Drive-in and/or Sit Outdoors Worship" at 5471 Highway 55, East, in Lake Wylie at 10:15 a.m. this Sunday, September 20.
Sunday morning, you can remain in your vehicle or bring a camping chair and socially distance from one another outdoors. Also, a portable restroom facility is now conveniently available on site. Offering baskets will be located on stands for those who wish to make an offering in person on Sunday morning. Those who join us in person can listen to the service over the PA system or on Imagine FM 87.9. If you can't join us in person, look for a shortened, prerecorded version of our worship to be made available on the Imagine Church Facebook page so you can still hear Bruce's message at home. Sometime later on Sunday, we will also post a video link of Sunday's service on the Imagine Church Facebook page for anyone who is interested in viewing it. Bruce will share part 3 of our thought-provoking new series, "The Divided States of America." The one thing that Jesus prayed for before he was crucified was that his movement, his ecclesia, would not be divided, but that we would be one. We invite you to join us for worship this Sunday -- and if you've not seen our new church site, you will be impressed.
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Cookies for Kairos on Sunday, September 27
Our friend, Jim Olson, has asked if Imagine Church could help supply cookies once again for the Kairos Prison Ministry. We would need to bring them to our drive-in outdoor worship on the new church site on Sunday, September 27, or leave them on the screened porch at the home of Bruce and Tyra Jones, 1520 Calvin Hal Lane in the Landing (Lake Wylie) on Monday, September 28. All cookies will be delivered on Tuesday morning of that week.
Cookies must be in quart size, zip-lock clear plastic bags (no exceptions) with twelve cookies to a bag. Brownies are also okay. No powdered sugar, no thin cookies because of breakage. Do not bag the cookies while they are still hot as they will stick together. Please put all the bags of cookies in cardboard boxes as this is the only way the prison will receive them during these difficult times. Write the number of dozen bags on each box. Thank you, Imagine Church, for your support of Kairos!
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Life Groups to Resume in October!
Representatives of each of Imagine Church's life groups met together on Monday, September 14, at the River Hills Marina Club patio to formulate plans for the reconvening of life groups beginning October 1. We will once again offer both home-based life groups for sharing, Bible study, and prayer, as well as larger fellowship/activity based life groups. In addition, we will be starting new ones, some regionally-based and even a daytime group for women and moms of all ages. If you feel that God is nudging you to become convener of a new life group, there is a place for you! Please contact Michelle Transou (704-299-6235) or Amy Davis (704-516-2437) for more information.
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What They're Saying
Hi, Bruce, what a gorgeous piece of land. Yesterday we picked up Jo Veith and drove around. We wanted to show her the future site of Imagine Church. As the gate was open, we just drove in. What a wonderful place to build a church! The pond, the large extent of grass, the barn, the serenity of the place are all just amazing. What a perfect place for a service or retreat! We are thrilled for you and your church family and we can't wait to see what your dream is for the sanctuary and other buildings there. Who could have guessed what plans God had for you way back when! Stay safe.
Blessings, Bob and Monique Boekhout
Park Pointe Village, Rock Hill
Dear Imagine Church,
We are blown away by your help and generosity! Thank you so much for coming alongside us with our move to our new home. We are thankful for all you have done to give us a great start! Thank you, Imagine Church!
Truly, Gregory and Tamra Roberts
Dear Imagine Church Family,
I wanted to thank you for your very generous gift on my ordination day to send me on my way. But even more than that, I wanted to thank you for sharing your hearts and lives with me over the past two and one-half years. I look forward to being a part of Imagine as I watch you plan and grow into this new season. I love you, and I thank God for you and lift you in prayer upon my every remembrance. You are ever in my heart. Again, I am so grateful for your care, love, and support.
In Christ's love, Heidi Chausse
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Leadership Team to Meet Sunday Evening
The Leadership Team will meet on the church site this Sunday evening, September 20, at 6:00 p.m. Please bring your own folding chair or camping chair, and know that we will be finished before dark! Team members, we look forward to seeing you Sunday night!
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Tithes & Offerings: Thank You for Your Generosity
Your continued giving keeps Imagine Church's ministry alive and vital. Offering baskets will be located on stands at this Sunday's "Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship" at the church's property in Lake Wylie if you are led to make an offering. Or, offerings can be made online via credit or debit card, ACH check payment, or by mailing cash or check to our church office at:
Imagine Church
13000 S. Tryon Street, Suite F-114
Charlotte, NC 28278
We offer heartfelt thanks to our Imagine Church family for the continued and generous spirit of giving you display!
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Be the Hands and Feet of Jesus
 There are so many opportunities that exist for our church family to be the hands and feet of Jesus and to help others through various means of service right here in our community. If you are aware of an opportunity that you would like to see highlighted in the newsletter, please email Kari DiDonato at her Imagine Church email: [email protected]
SEPTEMBER'S OUTREACH OPPORTUNITY:
EDGE of York County
Mentoring Program
 EDGE of York County is a mentoring program that is dedicated to equipping, developing, growing, and engaging young women ages 13-25 to reach their full God-given potential. The goal of EDGE is to encourage and inspire young women to strengthen every aspect of life: personally, spiritually, and professionally. Through close mentoring relationships and engagement with the community, young women are empowered to see their true value and develop healthy lifestyle habits and leadership skills.
 EDGE has many volunteer opportunities for the community ranging from mentors to YELL (Youth Engaged in Leadership and Learning) facilitators. Additionally, EDGE conducts a yearly Girls' Summit that will likely be virtual this year. Last year's team of speakers covered mental wellness for the school year, self defense, 'Be You, Be Beautiful", and body image. This Summit brings in women community leaders who share their career choices with the attendees and answer questions.
 EDGE is always on the look out for speakers who love Jesus and youth. We know that Imagine Church is blessed with so many amazing women who love Jesus and our community's youth. Please don't underestimate your ability to make an impact in the lives of these young women. Be a mentor. Be a facilitator. Be a speaker. Please consider sharing your experiences, insights, gifts, talents, time, and love with the the young women of EDGE of York County!
Also, as we did last week, we will have a collection bin available at Sunday's "Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship" if you are able to contribute any of these supplies that EDGE uses to conduct YELL Girls Circles:
- Butcher paper
- Poster boards
- 11x14 paper
- Index cards
- Sticky notes
- Folders with pockets and prongs
- Old magazines (PG rated)
- Markers
- Tape
- Glue
- Disposable cameras
- Fake money
- Skittles
If you won't be at Sunday's worship and wish to donate items, please reach out to Kari DiDonato at her Imagine Church email address ([email protected]). Or, if you are led to offer financial support, please click here to make a monetary donation.
Thank you, Imagine Church family, for generously supporting this month's outreach opportunity. You can learn more about EDGE of York County by following them on Facebook or by checking out their website:
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Weekly Inspiration and Encouragement
 Inspirational Song:
By: Steven Curtis Chapman
Featuring: Brad Paisley, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Lauren Alaina
"Loneliness and aloneness is not what we were made for, not what we were created for. I believe as a Christian, and it's all throughout the bible, that God made us for relationship with each other and with Himself."
~ Steven Curtis Chapman
"In these trying, confusing times, music is a healer - of the mind, the spirit, and sensibilities. And that's exactly why five-time GRAMMY® winner Steven Curtis Chapman enlisted his friends, Brad Paisley, Lauren Alaina, and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, to release "Together (We'll Get Through This)". Proceeds from the inspiring and uplifting collaboration will benefit the Opry Trust Fund and Gospel Music Association to assist those who've been gravely affected by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic." ~
Adkins Publicity
Submitted by: Jennifer Tankersley,
Minister of Worship and the Arts
Bible Verse of Encouragement:
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)
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Prayers and Praises
 We wish to congratulate Abigail Howell and Garen Griffin who were united in marriage at The Citadel Summerall Chapel in Charleston, SC, on Saturday, September 12. Garen is the son of Phil and Cindy Griffin of the Imagine Church family. Garen and Abigail will make their home in Rock Hill. Congratulations!
Bonita Nugent spent a night in the ER at Novant Presbyterian Hospital, Charlotte, after experiencing vertigo and other symptoms on Monday. She returned home Tuesday after lots of tests and is doing well, but we want to hold her in our prayers.
Bruce had a chance to visit last Friday with Bob and Linda Wujciak after Bob suffered a fall a few days earlier injuring his knee. We are praying that his knee heals so they can go on a trip to the mountains that their daughter and son-in-law planned for them in a few weeks.
Martha Edwards has been experiencing some hip issues in recent days that could require a procedure. Please hold Martha in your prayers in the days ahead.
We continue to pray for:
Zach Preston
Vaughn Dunn
Jerry Brownlee (father of Lydia Smith)
Have a prayer request or praise item to share? Please email [email protected] so the church can join you in prayers and praise!
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Imagine Kids
This past Sunday, Gregory shared his message (advance to 18 min mark) from "The Adventures of Joseph, Son of Jacob" with Imagine Kids and their families from the church's beautiful new property. He even brought treats to share with the Imagine Kids! You are invited to join Gregory this Sunday, September 20, when he will again deliver his next message from the church's Lake Wylie property during our "Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship". Bring a chair to sit outdoors, or enjoy his message from inside your car if you'd prefer. And, great news, a portable restroom facility is now conveniently available on site.
Upcoming Events: Looking ahead, Gregory is planning to have Imagine Kids gather during worship service at the church property on Sunday, September 27th! The children will be dismissed just before the sermon and will return to their parents at the end of the service. Carpet squares spaced 7 feet apart will encourage participation while maintaining proper social distancing. Everyone who is working with the children during this time will be wearing a mask, and we encourage the children to wear masks as well. Hand sanitizer will also be available as it is our utmost desire to keep the children safe while also teaching them about the love of Jesus! We hope to see your children on the 27th, and please don't hesitate to reach out to Gregory if you have any questions or concerns!
Memory Verse Parents, here is the memory verse for you to practice with your child(ren)!
Preschool and Elementary:
"You planned to harm me. But God planned it for good. He planned to do what is now being done. He wanted to save many lives. "
Parents, if the entire verse is too long for your preschooler, have them learn the first part:
"You planned to harm me. But God planned it for good."
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Imagine Nation Youth
This past Sunday, Tim shared updates (advance to 16:30 mark) for Imagine Nation Youth from the church's beautiful new property. Then, the youth were dismissed to their own separate session which was facilitated during the remainder of the worship service. Imagine Nation Youth and their families are invited to join us again this Sunday, September 20, at the church's Lake Wylie property during our "Drive-In and/or Sit Outdoors Worship". Bring a chair and plan to enjoy Tim's message from the great outdoors. And, great news, a portable restroom facility is now conveniently available on site.
Upcoming Events:
Winter X-treme:
Mark Winter Xtreme in your calendar for Dec. 27-30!
Cost $200
$100 non-refundable deposit due by Sept. 27;
$50 due Oct. 25;
final $50 due Nov. 29.
Or, you can pay in full.
Please make all checks payable to 'Imagine Church'.
Price includes event, food, activities, transportation, and lodging. Bring extra money for arcade, t-shirts, and shopping.
Itinerary
Sunday, Dec. 27
12:30 p.m. - Meet at CSD YMCA
1:00 p.m. - Depart CSD YMCA
5:00 p.m. - Arrive at Winter X-treme
6:00 p.m. - Dinner
Monday, Dec. 28
9:30 a.m. - Breakfast
11:00 a.m. - Leave for Anakeesta for lunch, zipline, shopping, etc.
5:30 p.m. - Dinner
7:00 p.m. - Service (Riley Clemmons and Crowder)
Tuesday, Dec. 29
9:30 a.m. - Breakfast
10:00 a.m. - Service (Newsong)
12:30 p.m. - Lunch and free time
5:30 p.m. - Dinner
7:00 p.m. - Service (Austin French, Tim Tebow, Lecrae)
Wednesday, Dec. 30
9:00 a.m. - Breakfast
10:00 a.m. - Depart
2:00 p.m. - Arrive at CSD YMCA for pick-up
Please contact Tim Gunn to let him know if you are interested in attending or if you have any questions about these events.
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Happy Birthday!
We send heartfelt birthday greetings to these Imagine Church family members who have birthdays throughout the next two weeks:
Chase Jones
| Sep 20
| Heidi Chausse
| Sep 21
| Ben Horgan
| Sep 21
| Brooklyn Gunn
| Sep 22
| Katie James
| Sep 23
| David Kowalczyk
| Sep 23
| Roland Neuffer
| Sep 23
| Campbell Hurst
| Sep 24
| Kaelyn Turner
| Sep 24
| Brad Kokoski
| Sep 25
| Craig Galeota
| Sep 28
| Stacey Cunningham
| Sep 29
| Tim Gunn
| Sep 30
| Chuck Spencer
| Sep 30
| William Van de Nobelen
| Sep 30
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If you are wanting your name added to our birthday list, simply send us a quick email at [email protected]. We want to celebrate with you!
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Imagine Church is more than a new church start; it truly is a movement. We're seeing people come to know God, and we're watching God change lives. People are connecting with others, being the hands and feet of Christ, and growing deeper in their walk with God. Above all, God is being glorified. Instead of being just another club or group in town, our hope is that you truly encounter God in a new and fresh way. That's Imagine Church!
IMAGINE CHURCH
A spiritually progressive community of faith
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Copyright © 2018 Imagine Church of the Carolinas. All Rights Reserved.
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