April 2024

Almost Summer

Bowling and the Seasons Changing

Firstly, a big thanks to those who joined us for bowling on April 6. It was great rolling strikes (and a few gutter balls) with all of you. I’m looking forward to our next get-together as well, especially now that the winter chill seems to be behind us.

With the weather getting warmer and summer just around the corner, I’m reminded of Genesis 8:22, which tells us, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” This transition from cold gray and wet snow to the warmth of summer is a beautiful reminder that God is sovereign and always in control. And ultimately, that’s our hope – that we have a God who works both on a grand scale and in the intricate, individual details of our lives. Jesus reigns as the King of all Creation, yet He’s also the loving older Brother who delights in walking alongside and with us, even in the small details of everyday life.  

Upcoming Events

Summer Kick-Off at the Claytons

As the school year comes to a close for many of us, the prospect of relaxing without looming deadlines is a welcome thought. So let’s embrace the start of summer together. Join us at the Claytons on Friday, May 3 at 6pm to kick back and enjoy an evening of food, yard games, and community around the bonfire. We’ll have ping pong, cornhole, foosball, and feel free to bring your favorite lawn game too! Non-RRC friends are also most welcome to join in on the festivities.

Please reach out to me at tim.v@rockfordrc.org as soon as possible so we can ensure we have enough food and drinks for everyone. Looking forward to a memorable summer kick-off with all of you!

Bible Study

After more research, we’ve landed on an exciting study idea! Beginning in late June, we’ll be launching a bi-monthly study using “The Story of God” curriculum from the Rooted Network. Our sessions will be held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

If you’re interested in joining us, please reach out via email or text so I can order a copy of the curriculum for you. You can also check out the Rooted Network link below for a preview of what this study entails.

Looking forward to diving into the Word together!

https://www.experiencerooted.com/products/the-story-of-god 

Additionally, don’t forget that Pastor Tim is hosting a weekly “Word and Prayer” gathering at church on Thursdays from noon to 1pm if anyone is interested (and available) in learning how to engage with God’s Word more personally and prayerfully.

Future Opportunity

CrossCon25 - CROSS CON25 Trailer

We are exploring the idea of attending CrossCon25, a transformative worship conference empowering young adults for global impact, in Jesus’ name. It features speakers like David Platt, John Piper, Trip Lee, and Kevin DeYoung.

Date: January 2-4, 2025 (driving down on January 1)

Location: Louisville, Kentucky

Current Estimated Cost: $400 (potentially significantly lower with fundraising and alternative lodging options)

If you’re interested, please let me know (don’t worry, being interested is not a for-sure-commitment). The sooner we have a rough estimate of attendees, we can gauge the feasibility of this, plan for it, and potentially reduce costs through fundraising. Please let me know by the end of April!

Additionally, if you have friends who are interested from outside of RRC, we may be able to include them with us at the event's reduced group fee! Have them contact me as well.

Stay tuned for more details. 

Contact Information

Tim VanderZwaag

tim.v@rockfordrc.org

616-821-8767

view past newsletters here

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” - Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)