November 2019 PPAC Newsletter
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1 Samuel 3
One thing I appreciate about great singers is their sensitivity to musical sound. They’re well acquainted with their own voice and float from note to note with ease. They have this ability to easily distinguish one key from another, one pitch from the other, or quickly identify whether a note is too sharp or too flat. It’s a gift not everyone has. But it’s also a gift that with time and coaching one can develop.
The prophet Samuel experienced his own “vocal coaching” session at an early age. However, this session wasn’t about training his own voice, it was about tuning his ear to distinguish other voices. He’d been brought up by the high priest Eli, a man of God, who trained him in the duties and responsibilities of the temple in Shiloh. Samuel was a special boy, dedicated to the service of the temple by his once barren mother Hannah, who cried to the Lord for a miracle. The Lord responded with the boy Samuel.
Samuel was a blessing to Eli the priest, a breath of fresh air in comparison to his two undisciplined and irreverent adult children. God was not pleased with Eli’s parenting choices and had made that known to the aged priest. However, Samuel was kind and obedient, pleasant to have around, and diligent and reverent with the sanctuary services. Not only did Eli observe this, but the eyes of the Most High were also watching.
And then it happened.
One night as Eli lay down to sleep in his own quarters, Samuel too laid down to sleep by the ark of God. But he couldn’t sleep.
“Then the Lord called Samuel, and he said, “Here I am!” and ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call; lie down again.” So he went and lay down.” (1 Sam. 3:4,5)
Someone was calling Samuel, but it wasn’t Eli. Can you believe this happened three times? Three times a voice called, and three times Samuel ran to Eli. Samuel was so used to obeying the voice of Eli, so used to only the two of them completing the ministry of the temple, he didn’t realize that all along there had been a third party involved.
“Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.” (1 Sam. 3:7)
The Lord of the heavens had transcended the portals of the spiritual realm and stood there next to the young boy. God wanted to talk to Samuel. Not Eli the high priest, nor Eli’s two sons who were also priests, he wanted to talk to the boy Samuel.
The interesting thing is, Samuel was not yet able to distinguish the voice of God from the voice of his father figure Eli. Samuel had not yet graduated from knowing the voice of his human father to knowing the voice of his heavenly father. God came to tell him it was time.
Friends, what about us? Have you graduated yet? Have you learned to distinguish the voice of your pastors, your teachers, your parents, your mentors, or your close companions from the voice of God? Can God speak to you directly through His word or communicate to you through your time in prayer? Or does his voice still sound like all of the other cluttered voices taking up space in your head? If so, it’s time to graduate. It’s time to tune our ears to the High King of heaven. He’s waiting to transcend the heavenly portals to have a conversation with you. You can even have a personal coach! The Holy Spirit has a greater ranking than 5 stars. Ask for Him, he’ll help you with lessons in “fine tuning” and his specialty, “vocal coaching”.
Blessings!
Pastor Michelle Odinma
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"DEAR CHURCH"
Our Fall 2019 Sermon Series
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November reading plans will be available this upcoming Sabbath. In the mean time, read from Colossians (the focus for 11/2's sermon), Philemon (11/9), Hebrews (11/16), and 1 & 2 Timothy (11/30).
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NOVEMBER 1 - Thanks for Your Help!!!
Many families came through line receiving fresh food for a week. Great job of organizing, David Burghart and Janelle Randall.
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COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER
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For several years, PPAC has helped with the COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER. We are providing desserts again and we need your favorite pies to make the day a success. If you are interested in serving or helping on Thanksgiving Day, your help is welcomed, as well. If you'd like to help prepare, serve or clean up, sign up at
Volunteers for Thanksgiving Dinner
They are projecting an attendance of up to 600 for the dinner and we half of them will be blessed by PPAC bakers!
We need to
provide 80 PIES!
If you are willing to provide pies, contact Donelle O'Connor
(
text or call 269 491 2641)
. You will be able to deliver the pies to the Freshwater Church in Paw Paw on Wednesday, November 27.
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VISION 2019
The Future of PPAC
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Goal: SPACE FOR OUR GROWING CHURCH!
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Three months left for the first year of the fundraising campaign. We have settled in to the reality of the building project, which is projected to need around $2 million of your hard-earned dollars. Since we
need $1 million on hand
before we can request the other half as a loan from the Lake Union Revolving Fund, we will be setting up Year Two.
So, as you plan your giving for the next three months (the fund raising began in February 2019 and nearly $164,000 is already raised toward the Year One Goal of $250,000),
Remember the Cornerstone fund
.
The need for an enlarged sanctuary and foyer, additional bathrooms, more Sabbath School rooms, fellowship space and an elevator is greater than ever!
LET'S GET THIS DONE!!!!
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WANT SOMETHING SHORT AND SIMPLE that will make a world of difference? Here is the magic answer!
- Get a sheet of paper.
- Number 1-30 on the left side.
- Each morning, write down one unique thing for which you are thankful. Review your previous answers each day.
- Share your gratitude with God, your family, friends and co-workers.
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KEEPING CONNECTED IN PARISHES
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Several parishes have had some time together during the month of October. Hopefully, you are participating and getting to know those within your parish better. Watch for those who may need some assistance - you can be the answer to someone's prayers.
If you are interested in a Parish Project, check with Jan Steffen or Donelle O'Connor for ideas or pick out one of the Thanksgiving or Christmas projects listed in this newsletter. Your parish can make a difference.
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Parishes and Parish Leaders
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BLUE: Jan Bermingham
BROWN: Dave Burghart
CANARY: Juanita and Doug Campbell
GREEN: Heidi Griggs
MAIZE: Mark Mills
NAVY BLUE: Tim Newkirk
RED: Chuck Randall
RAZZMATAZZ: Janelle Randall
SAGE: Mona Sarcona
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We need you/your family's picture. Our own very talented Anndrea Taylor has generously offered to quickly take a pose of your family for the directory. She will be set up in the Fireside Room after church and through the Thanksgiving Fellowship Meal on November 9. She will also be available on November 23 and 30, starting at 9:30 am. This will not be a traditional Anndrea Photo Shoot! If you are interested in professional family photos, please contact her directly.
If you'd like to have the fun of watching some Taylor children, please volunteer for time on these days!
The church is changing how pertinent information is stored. Even if you think your information is correct, please fill out this form to confirm!
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A CORNUCOPIA OF BLESSINGS THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON
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Share your gratitude by attending our annual Thanksgiving potluck luncheon after church on November 9. The Social Committee will be coordinating this special luncheon - bring your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
FELLOWSHIP LUNCHES are scheduled for the Second Sabbath of every month.
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A SPECIAL COMMUNION
SABBATH, NOVEMBER 16
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Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to live in ancient Israel and take part in the sanctuary services? Come on November 16 and get a glimpse of how things were before Jesus' sacrifice changed everything for us.
Pastor Taylor will draw lessons from Hebrews, showing how much BETTER the heavenly pattern is. Communion will be woven into this very special service, as we see how the sanctuary pointed to Jesus and His Sacrifice. You won't want to miss a minute.
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HYMNFEST
SABBATH, NOVEMBER 23
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Sing, Listen, Pray and Give Thanks
Plan now to attend the 2nd annual Thanksgiving Hymnfest on November 23. The service will feature several of our gifted musicians, leading a worship of praise and gratitude. As we sing hymns of adoration and read texts recounting blessings, your hearts will be filled with joy on this special day.
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There will be NO Parish/Visitors' Lunches in November or December because of the holidays. These will restart in January on the last Sabbath of each month. The next one will be on January 25, sponsored by the Brown (Burghart) and Canary (Campbell) parishes.
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COATS, GLOVES, MITTENS, SOCKS AND BOOTS
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GOOD NEWS: If you forgot to bring coats, gloves, mittens, hats, boots, socks, snow pants, scarves, snowsuits and all of the gear required to live through a Michigan winter, it isn't too late!!!
Clean out your closets (or go to the store) and bring your donations to church for
Lydia's Closet
and
The Porch.
Over 150 coats were given out in just a couple of days, so the need is immediate. Your contributions are needed now.
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PPAC has a long history of helping children have a better Christmas. Hundreds of applications for Christmas needs have already been submitted to the Van Buren DHHS. These represent various needs for families in our area.
Want to make YOUR Christmas better? The best way to do that is to reach out an assist someone else. You can do one or more of the following:
- GIVE A FINANCIAL DONATION TO BE USED BY DHHS SHOPPERS. Assign your PPAC donation to Community Services and it will be forwarded to DHHS.
- ADOPT A FAMILY AND COMPLETE THEIR WISH LIST. If you or your parish would like to adopt a family or two, contact Niki Handy directly at 269-621-2879 or email her handyn@michigan.gov
Thank you for your steady support of the Ministry’s of PPAC Community Services and Member Care. During the holidays and the winter months a financial crisis has an even more dangerous impact on a family’s well being. God Bless You as you continue to make a difference for families both inside and outside our church.
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The Pastor has posted four short, new videos in the ABOUT section of our website describing our Church of Refuge values - Worship, Learn, Belong and Proclaim. Take a minute and watch them!
https://www.pawpaw.church/about-ppac.html
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OUR OWN JOSEPH FOX AND THE
HELEN FOX GOSPEL MUSIC CENTER
IN THE NEWS!
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We see our distinguished member, Joseph Fox, every week, but do you know that his other passion is the value of teaching music to those who might not have an opportunity without the Helen Fox Gospel Music Center, dedicated to his amazing mother? Read this article to learn more about Helen and Joseph's vision of tribute to her.
Helen Fox Gospel Music Center
The center was the recipient of a recent grant from the Tendaji Giving Circle. It is so exciting to see Joseph's smiling face holding the gigantic check to further his dream.
Tendaji Giving Circle Grant
We are humbled when we think of the commitment Joseph has to the community and children in particular. Congratulations are definitely in order. May God continue to bless Joseph and Sylvia Fox as they generously demonstrate how much they care.
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PPAC FINANCIAL REPORT
SEPTEMBER 2019
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By Chris Randall, Treasury Chair
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T
ake a careful look at the Treasurer's Report each month - and prayerfully consider your family's contributions.
Treasurers' Report for
SEPTEMBER 2019
Treasurer Chris Randall says, "One month doesn't establish a trend, but September looked very promising! Let's keep it up." Here are some items of interest:
- Tithe was $35,739 for the month. Remember that 100% of Tithe is remitted directly to the Michigan Conference and represents more than 50% of our receipts.
- Income / Giving to Church Budget was $18,843 for the month. This is $3,875 better than our monthly goal!
- Cornerstone (capital / building projects) received $20,301 in September. This brings our total for "Vision 2019" to $163,884 in pledges and gifts.
- Our reserves continue to be healthy and earning interest in the Revolving Fund at the Lake Union Conference. In total, our cash on hand, general operating reserve, and capital replacement reserve has increased 53.4% (mostly due to fundraising for Cornerstone).
- The Conference Auditor conducted her review and has provided a "clean" opinion. Thank you to our Treasurers who are so diligent!
- Over 82% of our giving came through the website or app last month. This is certainly easier for Deacons and Treasurers as it reduces the time for counting, the possibilities for errors, and ultimately time and travel to the bank. If you haven't yet tried online giving please give it a try! Find "Adventist Giving" in the app store; visit www.AdventistGiving.org--> Paw Paw Seventh-Day Adventist Church; or www.PawPaw.Church--> Members--> Give.
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PROFILE: RANDY JONES' FAMILY
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Randy Jones has been an integral part of PPAC for many years. We know you have to arrive pretty early to be there before Randy, as he takes his deacon duties very seriously. He has served as Sabbath School secretary for many terms because we really can't imagine anyone doing a better job than he does. He's also taught children's Sabbath School in most of the divisions and served as an assistant superintendent for Sabbath School. Yes, PPAC is grateful for his dedication. He remembers his first introduction to PPAC through his older (his emphasis) sister, Barb Randall, who claims his as one of her favorite brothers. Although he hasn't always lived close to the church, he's claimed this as home because nothing else measured up for him. He can point to some of his own handiwork, as he was one who spent Sundays with a hammer during the church building process.
Although Randy was born in Missouri, he spent parts of his growing up years in South Haven, Bryan, Ohio and Berrien Springs. He is the youngest son of Vera Dunigan, also a PPAC member who passed away a few years ago. After graduating from Andrews, Randy thought he'd see the country and lived in Loma Linda, CA and Tacoma, WA before returning home and landing the job he still loves in Indiana, working for the state and putting his degree in social work to good use.
Cindy and Randy met at the wedding of her sister who married Randy's good friend - they were both in the wedding.
However, their paths didn't cross again for over ten years when she was visiting her sister while he stopped by to see his friend. Their friendship grew over the next two years until he finally proposed at Disney World. Cindy says, "I only wemt to see Goofy, not realizing I was going to bring him home and live with him for 27 years so far."
Although the couple started out in Constantine, they moved to their current home in Three Rivers 26 years ago. They are the proud parents of two fine young men, William and Zachary, who both work for the Post Office. Zach's two girls, six-year old Addison and newborn Eylah, give Randy and Cindy their favorite jobs of all, Grandpa and Grandma.
Randy enjoys reading and playing with his grandchildren, but we know him as a sports fan, from high school to college to pros. They have enjoyed two cruises with Cindy's family and their son William and his fiance. He can tell you a good story about surviving without luggage.
Randy loves Jesus and is grateful that Jesus has always been a part of his life. He looks forward to sharing his love of the Savior with his granddaughters, especially when retirement arrives and he has more spare time.
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Richard was born and raised in Kalamazoo and Connie grew up in Sturgis, but her family moved to Kalamazoo when she was 16. They met at the Nazarene Church in Kalamazoo, and they dated on and off. Richard did a stint in the Army and was stationed in Germany. While he was there, Connie and her parents visited him, and he surprised her by asking for her hand in marriage. They were married in 1971, and have seen their family grow over the past half-century. They are very proud of their two sons and daughters-in-law and their four fascinating grandchildren.
Richard worked as a sheet metal craftsman (no surprise that he was a craftsman) for 34 years before retiring just over a decade ago. Connie worked as an LPN for 25 years and has since served as a volunteer at the Pregnancy Helpline in Three Rivers, a crisis pregnancy center.
The couple enjoys camping in their RV. Richard's hobby is woodworking, and PPAC knows how talented he is because he builds the amazing VBS sets each year. Kids and adults alike marvel at the sanctuary’s stage when he has everything set up. Connie loves cooking and has blessed many people with her culinary creations.
Richard was raised going to church, but his relationship with the Lord was “pretty casual” until shortly after they were married. Connie remembers her rebirth in Christ happening when she was 14. They have always been active in their church and have loved serving God. After watching a TV sermon on the Sabbath by Doug Bachelor, they wondered about the SDA church and the Sabbath they hadn't been observing. Connie says they picked the Paw Paw SDA Church from the Yellow Pages and came the very next Sabbath. She says they immediately knew that was where they were supposed to be. Both talk about what they have appreciated learning, especially gaining a full understanding of what Scripture teaches about the state of the dead and about hell. It comes as no surprise to hear them state their desires: to follow Biblically sound teachings, to please the Lord, and to be His servants. Paw Paw SDA has benefited from their servant mindset as they have been Sabbath School class leaders, greeters, set builders and cheerful helpers whenever anyone needs a hand. And we’re blessed that you decided to officially join our church community this Fall as members. Richard and Connie, we’re glad to have you in our PPAC Family!
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12 STEPS TO HEALTH
Our monthly challenges from Health Ministries
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STEP ELEVEN: NOVEMBER'S CHALLENGE: NO COMPLAINING!
November is a natural month to take a look at how you view life. Are you complaining a lot? Do you have a list of what is wrong with everything and everyone? If someone wants to whine, are you the one they seek out for encouragement? Negativity takes a toll on physical, as well as mental health. Take a look at this article for ideas on how you can change your mindset.
Complaint Cleanse
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STEP TEN: (October's Challenge)
: GET ORGANIZED
STEP NINE: (September's Challenge):
EAT A HANDFUL OF NUTS EACH DAY.
STEP EIGHT: (August's Challenge):
AVOID MINDLESS SNACKING AND EATING.
STEP SEVEN: (July's Challenge:
READ 20 PAGES EVERY DAY.
STEP SIX: (June's Challenge
)
:
STRETCH FOR 5-10 MINUTES EACH DAY.
STEP FIVE: (May's Challenge)
:
WRITE DOWN SOMETHING YOU ARE GRATEFUL FOR EACH DAY.
STEP FOUR (April's Challenge)
:
WALK AT LEAST FIVE MINUTES EVERY HOUR.
STEP THREE (March's Challenge)
:
CUT OUT SWEETS OR CAFFEINE FOR 30 DAYS.
STEP TWO (February's Challenge)
:
DO ONE EXERCISE ACTIVITY AT LEAST SIX DAYS A WEEK.
STEP ONE (January's Challenge)
:
KEEP TRACK OF YOUR WATER INTAKE - STAY HYDRATED
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WOMEN'S MINISTRIES BRUNCH
November 17
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Plan to come to the October Women's Ministry Brunch on Sunday morning, NOVEMBER 17 from 9:30 - 11:00. Bring something to eat. Bring a Friend! Contact Gwyne Kramer for more information.
Life is busy, but why not take some time to refresh make connections, and lend your support to others. Prayers for the challenges in your lives will be sprinkled with hearty laughter.
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We worry about the shelf life of our gifts for others. How long with this last? The large print of
The Great Controversy
will last forever - if it comes off the shelf and into your hands or the hands of a loved one. It is the perfect Christmas gift for $10. See Jim Merrills and check some people off your list, while putting them on the list for eternity.
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FUN AT HARVEST MOON ACRES - 63 attended to enjoy a perfect fall day on October 27! Thanks to the Social Committee for organizing such fun.
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Joshua Kramer's baptism on October 12. Welcome to the family - we love your enthusiasm and love of Jesus.
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Weston Mark Moon, born to Kevin and Tana Moon, October 14, 8 lbs, 3 oz, 20.5 inches
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Brook has the hang of this!! Going to be a great big sister.
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Just hand Weston to Riley and he'll be quieting down in seconds!
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November 2: Pastor Taylor, Pathfinder Sabbath, Baby Dedication
November 6: Fab 50s, Fireside Room, 11:45 am
November 9: Pastor Krysten Thomas
November 9: Thanksgiving Fellowship Meal (Social Committee sponsors)
November 9: Pathfinders, following Fellowship Meal
November 16: Pastor Taylor, Hebrews and Communion
November 17: Women's Ministries Brunch, 9:30 am
November 18: Finance Committee, 6:30; Church Board, 7:00
November 23: Hymnfest
November 24: Pathfinders, 10:00 am
November 30: Pastor Taylor
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- Bev and Liam Steele - Bev's grandson, Josh Lacour, was killed in a car accident on October 29.
- Liam/Meredith Steele - He's home AND RECOVERING. 616 Benson Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
- Sharon Crux, Health challenges
- Sharon Lamb, Health challenges
- Helen Perry, Send a card or make a visit. She's recovering from a very lengthy hospital and rehab time and is struggling to become mobile again. 1392 Woodlure Dr, Kalamazoo, MI.
- Dave, Kathy and Amy Hill - Amy would love a card - she isn't always well enough to make it to church. 60652 West Oak Drive, Decatur, MI 49045.
- Nancy Boothby - Health challenges, 3060 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
- Anita Ashton - Send a card or come and visit! 6600 Constitution Blvd, Unit 8, Portage, MI, 49024
- David Scofield - Health Challenges, 10640 Paw Paw Lake Dr, Paw Paw, MI 49079
- Becky Lynn, Karl and James Driskel - Karl continues to experience significant health issues
- Lewis and Ardith Owen, 6154 Valley Drive, Paw Paw 49079 - Please send a card.
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Don't miss anything that might be going on - even if you aren't there, you can be there!
Check out the Paw Paw SDA website,
http://www.pawpaw.church/
where you will find a variety of information about past and upcoming events, including links to other church related sites.
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