church directory

A Special Supplement To The Examiner – February 27, 2010

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ChurchDirectory

Serving Eastern Jackson County Communities

2 Church Directory February 27, 2010

By Community of Christ

Community of Christ is a worldwide denomination with approximately 250,000 members in more than 50 nations. Community of Christ International Headquarters is housed in the Auditorium and the Temple, which is dedi-cated to the pursuit of peace, in Independence, Mo.

People from diverse cultures and backgrounds continue to find hope for their lives and encounter the living Christ each day through the church’s minis-tries, teachings, and mission.

Members and friends of the Community of Christ strive to live its mission to "proclaim Jesus Christ and promote com-munities of joy, hope, love, and peace." The church offers individuals the opportunity to be part of a global community that values all cultures, celebrates the rich diversity of human life, and actively seeks to share the peace of Jesus Christ in com-munities.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is the church’s focus for wor-ship, learning, and mission. Community of Christ empha-sizes the worth of all people, Christian discipleship as a way of life, peace and justice, rec-onciliation, and healing of the spirit.

Community of Christ encour-ages the ministry of all people, including children and youth. Ordained men and women and lay ministers serve congrega-tions.

You are invited to continue exploring the mission, faith, and beliefs of the church by visiting any of the more than 50 congre-gations in the Kansas City metro area.

Community of Christ International Headquarters is open to the public seven days a week. All are invited to tour the Temple and Auditorium, partici-pate in the 15-minute Prayer for Peace worship in the Temple 1:00 p.m. each day, enjoy free organ recitals, and visit the Children’s Peace Pavilion—a non-sectarian, hands-on muse-um dedicated to teaching kids about peace.

A variety of events that reflect the church’s mission are also open to all. Each year, the Temple hosts a Peace Colloquy that focuses on a particular peace and justice initiative in

alliance with other community organizations and faith groups.

The Community of Christ International Peace Award is given annually to an honoree whose work has impacted the pursuit of peace in our world. Recipients are internation-ally acclaimed and represent diversity in terms of ethnicity, gender, and faith.

Visit www.CofChrist.org to learn more.

Visit www.CentralMission.org to find congregations in

Independence and the surrounding area.

Illustration by Mary Shields

Community of Christ serves the world

February 27, 2010 Church Directory 3

St. Mark’s is a vibrant Catholic Community of 2600 families and growing! Located in Independence, Mo., the parish serves Catholics in eastern Independence, western Blue Springs and northern Lee’s Summit. The people of St. Mark’s form a welcom-ing, supportive and friendly community, offering one another the love and care of a family.

The ministry philosophy of St. Mark’s Parish is to offer a multitude of ser-vices to meet the needs of a multitude of people—from cradle to grave. Small Wonder Preschool and our Mother’s Day Out program

provide a loving environ-ment for young children. Both programs recognize that each child is a pre-cious and unique gift from God. Religious education programs for children, youth group for adolescents, prayer and Rosary groups as well as scripture study and fellowship groups for adult men and women are a but a few of the opportu-nities to nourish our faith. Grief recovery and counsel-ing are also a valuable out-reach to those in difficult or painful situations.

St. Mark’s also reaches beyond its boundaries to live out the Gospel of Christ.

Our mission in Anapra,

Mexico provides educa-tion scholarships to 42 stu-dents, food assistance to 63 families and builds 4 homes each year. Volunteers in mission serve not only in Mexico and Africa, but also in the United States. The people of St. Mark’s participate in Habitat for Humanity in Independence and serve in the St. James Soup Kitchen in Kansas City, Missouri.

At St. Mark’s we wel-come all who wish to grow in faith, love and service. Please call us at 816-373-2600 or visit us at www.stmarksparish.com. Habla Espanol? Llame a Hilda, x228, por favor.

Welcome to St. Mark's Parish


Come worship at Timothy LutheranBy Timothy Lutheran Ministries

At Timothy Lutheran, our mission is “Touching Lives for Christ.” The cornerstone of our ministry is to GATHER (for wor-ship and fellowship in the body of Christ), GROW (in Christ-like living through God’s Word), GIVE (joyfully in service to God and His people) and GO (as a wit-ness to all people that Jesus is Lord and Savior).

We are opening doors to Christ with our new site in south Blue Springs, which includes our school ministry for grades K-8. Also at this site, we offer Celebrate Recovery, a ministry that helps us to become free from life’s hurts, hang-ups and hab-its. The weekly Thursday night group meets at 7 pm, followed by small group break-outs at 8 pm. Small group studies for men and

women are based on the Christ-centered 12 steps that recognize Jesus as our Higher Power.

Timothy Lutheran Ministries provides resources and oppor-tunities to learn and grow to be able to face life’s challenges.

Each week we offer five differ-ent worship times and two wor-ship styles, as well as Sunday School for all ages. Our Senior Adult Ministry offers weekly Bible study (Friday mornings), monthly luncheons and a variety of service opportunities. Youth participate in the weekly Insight Bible study, servant events and mission trips. Our grade school, now located at our new south site, provides a Christian educa-

tion in classrooms equipped with the latest technology. For special times of need, we pro-vide DivorceCare, GriefShare, Stephen Ministry, and a number of other support groups.

Timothy members are active in community outreach by par-ticipating in the Blue Springs Fall Festival, the Blue Springs Ministerial Alliance and support-ing local service agencies. We host Breaktime Club for caregiv-ers, offer our facility for weekly scout meetings and sponsor an annual blood drive.

Join us for worship this week-end! Contact us at 816-228-5300 or [email protected] for assistance or information on our ministry opportunities and programs. May the Holy Spirit unleash His power in you to know Christ and serve Him as we con-tinue to Touch Lives for Christ.


First Baptist Blue Springs continues to move forwardWhen you drive past the inter-

section of 15th and Main streets in Blue Springs, you may not even notice that the big brick building on the corner is a church. On the outside, the view isn’t much more than one resembling a warehouse, or at best, an older church with not much life in it. However, take one step inside and you’ll find that First is alive and vibrant, and mov-ing forward like never before.

First Baptist Blue Springs has a rich history, serving Jackson County families in its present facil-ity since 1922. Yet in recent years the church has taken important new steps to effectively continue it’s mission of “knowing Christ and making Christ known.” Many areas of the church facility have been renovated to make every person’s experience more enjoy-able and relevant. Renovations include a preschool “Adventure Village,” a modern worship facility

for children called “The Loft,” and a completely renovated Student Life Center for teenagers. Most noticeable, the church’s main Worship Center received a com-plete makeover in 2008, and now includes comfortable theatre-style seating.

More important than the physi-cal transformations, however, are the lives being transformed at First. First is committed to help-ing everyone connect with God in a way that makes sense and is meaningful, regardless of age.

During worship services, the informal atmosphere encourages both corporate celebration, and the benefit of personal reflection. Musically, the services include a modern array of songs, carefully chosen to help all people connect with God. In addition to music, services often utilize video, drama, and other visual elements to help enhance the worship experience

in a way that is creative and memorable.

The teaching presented at First is designed to be relevant and easy to grasp. People learn what it means to know Christ, and how the Bible serves as a solid founda-tion for a successful life. Sunday services include teaching on important topics that affect every-one in their daily journeys. Those that attend First are finding that “church” isn’t necessarily what it used to be. Change is worth discovering, and Christ is worth following!

Though the outside may not look new, what’s happening inside First Baptist Blue Springs is excit-ing and life-changing. The old saying still holds true – “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” In this case, First Baptist may have been positioned in the same place for many years, but in 2010 the church is definitely moving forward.


When you come around First Baptist Church in Independence, it won’t take you long to figure out that the Children’s Ministry is one of the primary ministries in this church. From brightly-col-ored stripes on the walls leading kids to their rooms on Sunday mornings, to chil-dren’s groups being used to help lead music during a wor-ship service, you will see that children are seen as special gifts from God, to be loved and nurtured in their forma-tive years. “Children are truly the future of the church, so we have a responsibil-ity to invest heavily in their faith development,” says the pastor, Rev. Kevin Payne. “Our Children’s Minister, David Scott, leads a group of committed

volunteers that provide biblical instruction through study, music, and drama, all the while foster-ing a sense of excitement and enjoyment regarding the issues of God’s love, and our faith.”

During the course of a year the church will host a Vacation Bible School in the summer, as well as a “Trunks of Fun”

event just after the Halloween Parade in October. There are other events aimed at reaching children, too, such as an Easter Egg Hunt that is open to the community, swimming parties, and Sunday School lessons in the park.

Rev. Payne invites everyone to join them in their services. “We offer something for every-body, with lively music (both traditional and contemporary), meaningful worship, and lots of service and instructional opportunities.” While everyone is welcome, Rev. Payne espe-cially encourages those with young children to join them. “The development of children in the Christian faith is one of our highest priorities, and we hope you will join us in that endeavor.”

First Baptist Church of Independence


Since it’s earliest days back in the late sixties, Plaza Heights Baptist Church has been a consistent influence in the life of our community. Times sure have changed since then, but the church’s commitment to be a place where people can find real answers for life’s chal-lenges remains as strong or stronger than ever.

After more than 40 years of ministry in this area, Plaza Heights’ vision to be an oasis for people to build relationships with each other and with their God is at the forefront of their purpose. Their vision is:

“Reaching People With God’s Love.”

In this ever changing and uncertain world, Plaza Heights

believes that the answers to the chal-lenges facing the world, the nation, our communities, and families are found in Jesus Christ alone.

Plaza Heights is a place where authen-tic relationships, honest prayer, pas-sionate worship, care for those in need, and relevant teaching are to be found. They are working together to become the type of church described in the Bible, encouraging one heart at a time.

If you are a spiritual seeker or a committed Christian who wants to grow deeper in the Bible and your walk with Jesus;

whoever you are, there is a place for you at Plaza Heights.

At Plaza Heights, you’ll find a warm group of people just like you who are in this journey together and share its ups and downs. This church are com-mitted to Jesus, who has come to give us peace, forgiveness, purpose, and strength for these days, Jesus Christ.

Plaza Heights Baptist Church


By the Church of Christ Elijah

He is the Messenger of the covenant to prepare the way and a people for Christ’s com-ing: (Matthew 11:10, Luke 1:76)

“Behold, I will send my mes-senger, and he shall prepare the way before Me; and the Lord, whom you seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom you delight in: behold, He shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.” (Malachi 3:1)

The Church of Christ has been established anew by the Power and Authority of God, having the same form of Organization, the same Doctrine, and the same Spiritual Gifts as they are found in The Church of Christ

of the New Testament.We have been commanded

to take these Messages to every nation, kindred, tongue and people. Here are the words of the Messenger: “Let the Message I bring be pub-lished in every land. Let it go in every language and tongue, to the ends of the earth.” Message 72:20

“I am the angel of the Lord, the Messenger of the Covenant, the promised Elias which is for to come. I bring the Elias, or Elijah Message the prophets foretold of to come – lest the earth, mankind, be smitten with the curse. But in my coming the curse is lifted. The way is made sure in deliverance and victory in gaining salvation, the plan Christ has laid, and His church

upon His revealing power – the Rock of Assurance. Christ is the Truth and the Light, the Life and the Way; listen to His whisper-ing call.” Message 97:2

These Messages teach the same Gospel that was taught by Christ and His Apostles. For we believe the Gospel of Christ is unchangeable. The Apostle Paul says; “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you, than that which we have preached unto you, Let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:8.

Please join us in worship service. For more information or to request the book: The Word of the Lord Brought to Mankind by an Angel, (which includes 120 Messages) Please contact us, 816-836-1913.

A warning to all people of the second coming of ChristJohn the Baptist (Resurrected) Has Come


Getting to know CornerstoneBy Cornerstone Church

Does the idea of visiting a church service make you uncomfortable? Does church seem irrelevant and unneces-sary to your life? We would say you should give us a try!

Cornerstone Church is a dynamic, friendly church that meets you right where you are. Whether you are just curious about God and church or you're a committed follower of Christ, you are welcome here!

Our worship services con-sist of contemporary music that inspires and prepares hearts to experience the presence of God. The messages from our pastors are targeted to help us apply biblical truths to every area of life including how

to know God, relationships, finances, work, and family issues.

Our ministries to children and students are done with great care and creativity so they always want to come back to learn more.

The Link Café offers light refreshments and specialty drinks as well as free coffee,

and a place to connect with friends before and after ser-vices.

You can browse the Rockhouse Bookstore - filled with Christian books and music, Bibles, and gift items.

Our website, www.CornerstoneLife.org, will give you much more info about our church, but don’t stop there! We’d love to have you join us for one of our Sunday services.

Cornerstone has a far-reaching vision to build a com-munity of believers in Jesus Christ that will experience changed lives and have a posi-tive impact upon our culture today and for generations to come. We extend a warm welcome to Eastern Jackson County to come and be a part of this special church family!


By Central Mission Center

The 38 congregations of the Community of Christ that are in eastern and southern Jackson County form the jurisdiction known as the Central Mission Center. These congregations have many different programs and ministries.

For children, along with Sunday school classes, there are such programs as Young Peacemakers’ Clubs, Jesus and Me, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and after school tutoring.

For middle school and high school students the programs are wide and varied. From weekly meetings to mission trips teens are involved in activities that take them into spiritual

growth and service to others.Adult activities vary from

social functions and spiritual growth experiences to addiction recovery and cancer support groups.

An important function of the Central Mission Center is provid-ing the camp program. For the summer of 2010 there will be four resident youth camps each for a specific age group and will provide camping opportunities for about 550 youth and lead-ers. Also this coming summer the Mission Center will send a youth delegation to Spectacular, a sports, art and leadership gathering for youth. For the 14th year, the South Texas Mission trip will provide an opportunity for Middle School students to

join with Outreach International in conducting service projects for Hispanic communities along the border. Two Family camps for persons of all ages will round out the 2010 camping season.

The Blue Valley Activity Center, a Central Mission pro-gram, has grown a lot in the past few years. BVAC continues to expand their youth sporting programs. Adult kickball is a new program offered by BVAC.

The winter Youth Rally held annually in January drew a four day total of 1600 youth and lead-ers this year. It is considered one of the highlights of the youth calendar.

For more information on Central Mission Center pro-grams call (816) 833-4300.

Central Mission Center Many different programs and ministries in the area


55,000 square feet totally for elementary kids, and middle school and high school stu-dents! Way cool!

Coming in May 2010, Blue Springs Christian Church will open up a new home for its Children’s & Student Ministry. This new facility provides large worship spaces for elemen-tary and Pre-Teens, and one large Student Ministry Worship area, plus breakout rooms for life application and Bible-learning activities for all ages. Included in this new facility will be games rooms, a theater room, a basketball shooting area, snack areas, ministry offices, and a counseling cen-ter. Equipped throughout with

large flat-panel TV screens, high definition sound systems, and video projection units, this facility will provide fun, stimu-lating & wholesome environ-ments. Constructed through a volunteer labor strategy, the Children’s & Student Ministry Building is the second of many specialized ministry buildings planned for the 40 acre campus.

Blue Springs Christian Church, a non-denominational, self-governing fellowship of Christ-followers that began in February 1981, moved to its current facility in November 2002. Contemporary in its approach of “guiding people into a fully-devoted relation-ship with Jesus – together,” the

church presents the timeless truths of Christianity in casual and relaxed environments for all ages. Classic Worship is at 8:15 AM with Worship Alive at 9:30 & 11:00 AM. A Nursery is available at all service times. Kids’ Worship (Preschool, Elementary & Pre-Teen) is provided only at 9:30 & 11:00 AM. Sunday Student Ministry Worship (middle school & high school students) meet at 9:30 & 11:00 AM.

For more informaiton about Blue Springs Christian Church, visit www.BSCC.org or call 816.229.7311. BSCC is located 4.5 miles south of Interstate 70 on Hwy. 7 at the south end of Blue Springs.

Blue Springs Christian ChurchGrowing kids & youth with new spaces


In Luke 13, Jesus is asked “are there few that be saved?” Jesus answers that we should strive to adhere to the narrow path of the gospel, for if we do not, we will be shut out of God’s kingdom despite our claims of service. Jesus then states this will happen because we do not know from “whence ye are” and there will be great sorrow when we see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the prophets of Israel in the kingdom of God but we are thrust out.

In Matthew 15, Jesus says “I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Since God is unchangeable, we should expect that Jesus will be sent only to those who are part of the house of Israel when he returns and not to the entire world as many believe.

So, how are these two

thoughts connected? God made an everlasting covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that through their seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed. (Genesis 12, 26 and 28) Paul teaches that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of that covenant and that without that covenant we have no hope of salvation. (Galatians 3 and Ephesians 2)

So, how do we know we are part of the house of Israel and heirs to the promises God made to them? Paul provides the answer that we must be baptized into the covenant by one having authority (Galatians 3) and many scriptures tell us we then must endure to the end of our days.

If you still think everyone will be saved in God’s kingdom, consider John’s description of

the New Jerusalem with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel over the twelve gates in the wall surrounding the city and that there are angels guarding each of these gates to make sure those who do not know from whence they are do not enter. (Revelation 21)

If you are interested in learn-ing more about this topic or the true points of the doctrine of Jesus Christ, we invite you to visit us or find out more about what we believe at our web site.

The Church of Jesus Christ Zion’s Branch

108 S. Pleasant, Independence MO 64050 (816) 833-4377 email:

[email protected] and

www.zionsbranch.org/forum


Did you know from whence you are?


Welcome to Country MeadowsBy Sandy TurnerThe Examiner

Senior Pastor Dr. Jeff Paul came to Country Meadows Baptist Church this past November after having received a call — which only he could hear.

“My family and I were very comfortable leading a church in Archie, Missouri,” Dr. Paul said of the decision to move to Lee’s Summit. “Although God had a different vision for us, and we’re thankful He did.”

Excited to be part of the con-gregation and staff at Country Meadows, Dr. Paul says the church has the most warming welcome he has ever seen.

“Everyone who visits the church always comments on how comfortable and welcome they feel from the moment they step inside the front doors. That’s what I love about this church — it has that country feeling while in an

urban setting.”Earning his doctorate from the

Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City and after being a pastor for 25 years, Dr. Paul admits that even though he awas raised going to church, his personal relationship with Jesus didn’t happen from just being in church, but being exposed to the word of God and actually listen-ing.

“It wasn’t until I graduated from high school that I actually heard and understood what God was trying to say to me person-ally, and once I did, it changed my life forever.”

With a strong and committed congregation, Country Meadows grew its membership over the past year — even though a Senior Pastor was not in place.

“We are a relational church, and it’s apparent everywhere you look that the congregation cares about each other and is constant-

ly reaching out to the community.”Focusing on communicating

the Biblical truth in a contempo-rary fashion, Dr. Paul uses a floor to ceiling screen in the sanctu-ary to engage the congregation during the worship service. Each weeks’ sermon can also be heard on their website www.cmbc.net as well as a full schedule of activities and detailed information for those wanting to visit Country Meadows. Answers can be found on the website to questions such as: what to expect in the worship service to what’s available for kids and teenagers.

With a high-energy Minister of Youth leading junior and high school students, Country Meadows caters to giving young people the space and time so that they can experience God’s word in their own way.

“It’s a place for teens to con-nect to each other, to us, to God,”

Continued on page 21


Welcome to Susquehanna BaptistBy Sandy TurnerThe Examiner

Susquehanna Baptist Church is gearing up for an exciting three day revival with guest preacher Dr. Bob Springate with the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home. As an accomplished ventriloquist and challenging speaker, Springate is guaranteed to bring laughter and fun to a time of revival.

Celebrating their second year of engaging in “Three Days of New Life,” Pastor Rick Jordan is excited about the opportunity to rejuvenate the congregation as well as to reach out into the community.

“Joe Payne, a deacon in the church came to me in the fall of 2008 with this grand idea. It was a huge success last year and I’m certain the attendance will be even better this time.”

Three Days of New Life will begin on Friday, February 26 beginning with special music at 6:30 p.m.

“The Friday night service will be geared towards the children of our church and community,” Payne said, “with children’s music and children’s time with lots of fun and enter-tainment.”

On Saturday, fellowship time will begin at 11 a.m. with lunch and special music and then the evening services at 6:30 will be geared towards the youth.

Three Days of New Life will conclude on Sunday with breakfast and special music beginning at 8:15, worship at 10 a.m. and at 6 p.m.

“I have believed for many years that the church is too complicated,” Jordan said. “Susquehanna Baptist Church has been my teacher in seeing

how simple believing in God can be and how easy it is to share with each other and the community. Less can be more.”

With nearly 200 active members in the congregation, Susquehanna Baptist Church celebrates 50 years of giving back and reaching out to the community with events such as an annual Easter Egg Hunt, Neighborhood Summer Block Party, Vacation Bible School and Fall Family Fun Festival.

“Churches have their natural rhythm of gathering and then scattering,” Jordan said. “We love the community around us and our goal is to celebrate Christ and then take that light out to our neighbors and friends.”

With the Susquehanna Preschool on site along with an active youth group, the



Welcome to Coventry Estates BaptistBy Sandy TurnerThe Examiner

Senior Pastor, Doug Bradley, has just celebrated one year of ministry with the members of Coventry Estates Baptist Church and is confidently pursuing the work with a clear vision.

“Our task is to help people find a connection with God and nurture the our current relation-ships,” Pastor Bradley said. “That is what God is all about so that is what we will be all about. As a Bible believing Baptist Church, we hope to make an impact on Independence and its residents with the life changing message of Jesus Christ.”

The southern Baptist church is steeped in history, having been established in Independence since 1960 and

has held fast to the truth that lies within the pages of the Bible.

“The world changes, society changes, but the truth never does,” Bradley explains of the philosophy at Coventry. “We are believers in the prophetic nature of the returning of the Lord and I believe that our ear-nest ways of seeking out the truth sets us apart.”

Because our world is ever changing the church has started hosting a ministry outreach to Spanish speaking people. Every Saturday at 6:30, Primera Iglesia Baptista de Independence has a worship service in Spanish, held in the sanctuary. There are children’s activities that are included in the service. Luis Mendoza is the Pastor.

With a Sunday morning wor-ship service beginning at 10:45 a.m., Pastor Bradley invites any-one looking for answers to life’s questions to come and visit.

“Intuitively people who are in a crisis situation want to reach out to those who can give them the hard true facts about what religion is really all about,” he said. “Most of us look backward for the answers, more than for-ward.”

In essence, Bradley believes that many of us feel a sense of security and belonging when attending a more traditional, old fashioned, back to the basics church service.

“We do have a mix of tradi-tional and contemporary,” he said. “But we also know where the line is and we don’t cross over it.”


ComeWorshipWithUsBaptistFirst Baptist Church

of Independence500 W Truman Road

Independence, MO 64050816-252-3377

www.fbcindep.orgSunday Services

9:00 a.m. Traditional Service10:00 a.m. Sunday School/Bible Study

11:00 a.m. Contemporary WorshipWednesday Evenings

Dinner & Bible StudyChildren & Student Activities

First Baptist Church of Blue Springs1405 Main Street,Blue Springs, MO

(816) 229-9335Sunday Worship & Sunday School:

9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.Sunday Evening Service: 5:00 p.m.

Activities and Life Groups for all ages.www.fbcbluesprings.org

Maywood Baptist Church10505 Winner Rd.


www.maywoodbaptistchurch.org9:30 a.m. Bible Study

10:50 a.m. Sunday Worship Celebration6:00 p.m. Wednesday Powerhouse

Kids Program

Susquehanna Baptist ChurchRick Jordan, pastor

17800 Susquehanna Ridge, Independence. MO 64056

816-257-2080www.susquehannabaptist.org

Sundays 8:45 a.m. Sunday School

10:00 a.m. WorshipWednesday

7 p.m. Something for All Ages

SouthernBaptist

Calvary Baptist Church900 NW 22nd Street.,

Blue Springs, MO 64015(across from Blue Springs High School North)

816-228-5540www.CalvaryBlueSprings.org

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 a.m.Sunday Evening Worship: 6:00 p.m.

Wed. Evening Bible Study & Prayer Time 6:00 p.m.

www.CalvaryBlueSprings.org"Loving God, Loving People"

Coventry Estates Baptist Church17133 E. 39th St.


Pastor Doug Bradley and his wife Judy Service Times:

9:30 a.m. Sunday School10:45 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship6:15 p.m. Awana Club (Sept. through May)

6:30 p.m. Sunday Evening Worship7:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study

7:00 p.m. Wednesday Youth Worship(Youth Group: 7th - 12th grade)

www.mycebc.org God's Golden Gems ministry

for seniors meets monthly. Angel Food Ministry distribution site. See our website for the monthly menu

and order schedule.

First Baptist Church of Oak Grove400 E. 14th St., Oak Grove, MO 64075

816-690-3233www.firstbaptistog.org

Sunday Worship: 8:15 & 11:00 a.m.Sunday School: 9:45 a.m.

Wed. Adult Bible Study: 6:30 p.m.Wed. Youth in Worship: 6:15 p.m.

Plaza Heights Baptist ChurchServing the Blue Springs Area

Since 1966Rev. Jim Tolliver, Senior Pastor

816-229-40771500 SW Clark Road

Blue Springs, MO 64015Sundays:

8:00am- FIRST LIGHT@8AM Contemporary Worship

9:30am- Bible Study Groups10:45am- Blended Worship6:00pm- Evening Activities

7:00pm- Family Fellowship MealFull Wednesday Evening Activities

for all agesDinner at 5:15pm

Programs 6:00-7:30pmCall the church office or check out our website

for more informationwww.plazaheights.org

CatholicSt. Ann Catholic Church

10109 E. Lexington, Indep. 252-1160(2 blks. N. of Fairmount Business District)

Mass Sat.: 4:00 p.m. Mass Sun.: 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m.

Mass Mon.: 8:00 a.m. Mass Wed.: 8:00 a.m. Mass Thurs.: 8:00 a.m.

Mass Fri.: 8:00 a.m.Let us become family in prayer

St. Cyril Catholic Church11231 Chicago Street, Sugar Creek, MO

Parish Office: 252-9564Mass Sunday, 9:00 a.m.Mass Tuesday, 8:00 a.m.

Mass: Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.

St. Marks Catholic Church3736 Lee’s Summit Road, Indep.

373-2600www.stmarksparish.comMass Saturday: 5:30p.m.Mass Sunday 8:00a.m.,

9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.,Reconciliation Saturday:

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.Weekday Mass: 9:00 a.m.

YOU ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US!

ChurchofChristElijah

MessageThe Church of Christ

With the Elijah MessageTHE ASSURED WAY OF THE LORD, Inc.

201 West Lexington Ave., Indep., MO 836-1913

(in the Hillcrest Bank Bldg., Ground floor)Apostle Leonard Draves, PastorSunday School for all ages: 10:00 A.M.

Church Service 11:00 A.M.Rev. 12:1, Msg. 2:7, Matt. 17:11,

Rev. 14:6, Mal. 3:1the assuredway.org

(and) ancientofdays.orgttp://www.johnthebaptist.info

Please join us in worship!

CommunityofChr ist

BLUE SPRINGS, MOColonial Hills

3539 S. 7 Highway(816) 229-9344

Sunday Worship: 10:15 a.m.

Mission Woods2800 Duncan Road

(816) 224-0095Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m.


Community of Christ continued

Parkview801 S. 19th Street


BUCKNER, MOBuckner

1001 S. Sibley(816) 650-5745


GRAIN VALLEY, MOGrain Valley

32901 E. Pink Hill Road(816) 443-2526


KANSAS CITY, MOPleasant Heights

4341 Blue Ridge Boulevard(816) 356-2484


Ridgewood4341 Blue Ridge Boulevard


LEE’S SUMMIT, MOColbern Road

27507 E. Colbern Road(816) 578-4574


Lee’s Summit1101 NE Independence Ave.


Woods Chapel500 NE Woods Chapel Road


RAYTOWN, MORaytown

6231 Manning(816) 353-2278


SIBLEY, MOOsage Hills

27503 E. Blue Mills Road(816) 650-5250


INDEPENDENCE, MOBeacon Heights

19402 E. Holke Road(816) 796-7033


Blue Ridge3371 Blue Ridge Boulevard

(816) 521-4075Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m

Celebration Ministries1706 S. Northern


College Park1021 W. College(816) 521-4067

Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m

Cornerstone1316 S. Osage(816) 521-4074


East Alton23rd & R.D. Mize Road


East Independence823 Elizabeth Street


East 39th Street15006 E. 39th Street


Eden Heights1301 E. Sea Ave.


Gudgell Park500 E. Gudgell(816) 521-4069


Highland Manor Mission4341 Blue Ridge Boulevard

(816) 478-1275Sunday Worship: 6:00 p.m.

Liberty Street416 N. Liberty(816) 521-4070


New Hope 220 W. Moore(816) 521-4071


New Walnut Park1137 S. Pearl(816) 521-4072


Oak Hill201 Oak Hill Cluster


Open Arms1101 W. Walnut(816) 461-6788

Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

South Crysler3100 S. Crysler(816) 521-4073

Sunday Worship: 10/30 a.m

Special Ministries Mission1706 S. Northern


Stone Church1012 W. Lexington


Summit Grove411 S. Lee’s Summit Rd.


Village Heights1009 Farview Drive


Walnut Gardens19201 R D Mize Road


ComeWorshipWithUs


EpiscopalTrinity Episcopal Church

409 N Liberty Independence MO 64050

816-254-3644www.trinityindependence.org

Would like to invite you to worship with us at the following services:

Sundays8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Rite I Holy Eucharist9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Adult & Children’s Sunday School10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Rite II Holy Eucharist4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Family Bible Study5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Family Worship ServiceWednesdays5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pot Luck Dinner6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m Evening Worship/Healing Service

Don't forget to visit The Mustard Seed

Wednesday - Saturday Noon until 4:00 PM

LutheranAll Saints Lutheran Church, ELCA

421 SW 19th StreetBlue Springs, MO

(816) 229-3633Sunday Worship:

8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

www.bluespringslutheran.com

Messiah Lutheran Church LCMS613 S. Main, Indep. 254-9405Pastor Jon R Nicolaus

Worship Services from 8:00 and 10:45 a.m.Sunday School and

Bible Classes at 9:30 amwww.messiahlutheranindependence.org

Timothy Lutheran Church425 NW R.D. Mize Rd.

Blue Springs, MO(816) 228-5300

RD Mize SiteWorship

Saturday, 6 pmSunday, 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Education HourSunday, 9:15 am

Wednesday Midweek Classes

September-May6:30-8 pm – Bible Study for all

Children, youth & adultsConfirmation classes (6th-8th)

Timothy Lutheran

301 SW Wyatt Rd SiteContemporary Worship

Sunday, 9:30 amEducation Hour

Sunday, 10:45 am

Timothy Lutheran SchoolFor grades K-8Monday-Friday

www.timothylutheran.com

MethodistChrist United Methodist Church

14506 E. 39th StreetIndependence, MO 64055

(816) 461-1101Saturday Worship: 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Worship: 8:15 a.m. & *11:00 a.m.

Contemporary Service: 9:45 a.m.*(Hearing Impaired Service)

Day Care, Preschool and Youth Ministries www.icumc.org

First United Methodist Church301 SW Woods Chapel Road


Sunday Worship: 8:00 a.m., 9:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.

Saturday Worship Service: 5:30 p.m.www.firstumcbs.org

First United Methodist of Independence

400 West Maple Ave., 64050Rev. Alan Pruitt, senior pastor

Rev. Donice Heriford, associate pastorSunday School: 9:00 a.m.

Traditional Worship: 10:00 a.m., Contemporary Worship: 11:15 a.m.Youth Group: 6:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday

Starshine Pre-School, September to May

254-6900www.indepmo-fumc.orgwww.thedoor-indep.com

Woods Chapel United Methodist Church4725 NE Lakewood WayLee’s Summit, MO 64064

(816) 795-8848Sunday Contemporary Worship:

9:05 & 10:10 a.m.Sunday Traditional Worship:

8:00 & 11:15 a.m.Nursery provided during

all worship services.Adult & Children’s Sunday School at

9:05, 10:10 & 11:15 a.m.www.woodschapelchurch.org

Non-denominational

Blue Springs Christian Church7920 South 7 HwyBlue Springs Mo www.BSCC.org

816-229-7311Sunday Services:

8:15 a.m. Classic Worship9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Worship Alive

Kids Worship and Student MinistriesSundays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

City Church

1600 S.W. Smith St.Blue Springs, MO 64015

(816) 229-9933Sunday Celebration Services:

9 a.m. & 11 a.m.The Edge Youth Ministries,

Children’s Ministries,Young Adults Ministry & Weekly Life Groupswww.citychurchkc.com

Cornerstone Church301 E. AA Hwy.


Sunday Worship: 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.Wednesday 6:30 p.m.: TheLink Youth Ministry

Children’s MinistryAdult Life Cells

www.cornerstonelife.org

ComeWorshipWithUs


Non-denominational continued

Lighthouse Life Application Ministries11415C East 23rd Street,

Indep., MO 64052Pastor Raymond Burks, Sr.

(816) 833-LLAM(5526)Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 a.m.Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

OtherDenominations

New Community Church22603 NW Pink Hill Rd.

Blue Springs, MO 64015(816) 220-2844

Sunday Worship: 10:45 a.m.Wednesday: 7:00 p.m.

www.newcommunityfmc.orgPresbyter ianFirst Presbyterian Church

100 North Pleasant, Independence, MO 64050

816-252-6662 • www.fpcindep.orgBuilding on the Past,

Celebrating the Present, Preparing for the Future

9:30 a.m. Traditional10:30 a.m. Sunday School11:30 a.m. Contemporary

Nursery Care at all services

RestorationThe Church of Jesus Christ

Zion's Branch108 S. Pleasant


www.zionsbranch.orgSunday:

10 a.m. Sacrament (1st Sunday)or Scripture Study

11 a.m. Sermon6 p.m. Scripture Study

Wednesday:7 p.m. Prayer Service

Teaching the True Points of theDoctrine of Jesus Christ

as Restored in 1830

COUNTRY MEADOWS BAPTIST CHURCH CONTINUED from page 14

SUSQUEHANNA BAPTIST CONTINUED from page 15

Minister of Youth Dane Cockrell said. “We call it ‘The Edge’ and we meet on Wednesday eve-nings, around 6 p.m. for music, food, fellowship and to just hang out with others who are also searching for answers or just for someone to listen.”

With a high-energy room set up complete with a snack bar, pool and foosball tables, the students have the opportunity to experience genuine friendship.

“My passion is to give hope

to those teens who are lacking hope,” Cockrell said. “Wanting to connect with another person is ingrained in all of us and we hope that The Edge can be the place that teens can experience real, authentic love and friend-ship.”

Country Meadows keeps things moving for those 50 and beyond with Sams Club, a senior adult ministry that offers guest speakers, singers, local enter-tainment and day trips.

“There are opportunities for all ages to interact and to expe-rience an engaging worship ser-vice,” Dr. Paul said. “All it takes is one foot in the door and we’ll take care of the rest.”

Country Meadows Baptist Church is located at 4901 Lee’s Summit Road (just south of the corner of 40 Hwy and Lee’s Summit Road). For more informa-tion call the church office at 373-6445 or visit www.cmbc.net.

church celebrates family and added a Christian Life Center for fellowship, basketball and vol-leyball leagues, roller skating, movies and recreation.

“We are an intergenerational church family,” he said. “We have something for everyone and blend the services between traditional and contemporary. It’s friendly, warm and simple.”

Bible study on Sunday morn-

ings begin at 8:45 with church service at 10.

“Our Wednesday night gath-ering is very stimulating. We sing and share our thoughts and listen to each other, not just listen to me preaching. There is a definite atmosphere of energy as everyone engages in the service.”

Respecting the busyness of everyone’s lives, the church will be

introducing short bursts of activities and events throughout the year.

“We just have a lot of fun and laugh a lot as we share and grow in God’s love,” Jordan said. “We invite everyone to come and be a part of our family.”

Susquehanna Baptist Church is located at 17800 Susquehanna Ridge in Independence. Contact them by calling 257-2080 or visit www.susquehannabaptist.org.

ComeWorshipWithUs


Status of youth pastors rises as kids' lives get more complicatedElectronic communication, thorny social issues and skepticism of authority mean churches are looking for youth pastors who are in it for the long haul. Long the bottom rung of church ministers, youth pastors and ministers are getting their day.

By Justin L. FowlerThe State Journal-Register

On a recent Wednesday evening, about a dozen teen-agers and adults are lazing around on couches arranged in a horseshoe shape.

Jay Bush, youth pastor at First Church of the Nazarene in Springfield, strides to the front, dressed in jeans and a University of Michigan pullover. He adjusts a music stand that serves as a lectern.

“You kids having a good week?” Bush asks, with answers not matching his enthusiasm.

“What’s the best thing that happened to you this week?” he tries.

“I found out I have a Constitution test Friday,” offers a student.

“The Constitution — that’s important,” Bush shoots back.

The inevitable followup question — bad things that happened over the week — draws more reaction.

“My car broke down,” one girl says.

“So what’s wrong with it?” Bush asks.

“Something with the engine,” she replies to laughter around the room.

“Engine problems — I had that once,” Bush says, jokingly.

After a few announcements and prayer requests, Bush draws a pie chart on a white-board. Soon, he’s filling out sections that make up students’ lives — family, school, friends, work, church/God.

Quickly, they get the picture. “God desires to be more than a slice of your life,” Bush says.

He then produces a pile of aluminum pie pans and, during a prayer, encourages the stu-dents to each take a pie pan.

“I want you to put it some-where as a visual reminder,” Bush says, “that you’re willing to have God have every influ-ence in your life. True freedom to Christ is when you give him everything.”

Long the bottom rung of church ministers, youth pas-tors and ministers are getting their day. First Church of the Nazarene created a full-time youth pastor position, reuniting Bush with his home pastor, the Rev. Fred Prince. At West Side Christian Church in Springfield, four ministers work full time in family life ministry, including Josh Ryder with its high school students and Chris Sandel with its junior high students.

And with the rise of social networking on Web sites such as Facebook and Twitter, the way youth pastors approach their job has changed signifi-cantly — leading some to think that the field needs experts who specialize in the needs of young congregants.

“I don’t perceive it as a stepping stone,” says West Side Christian’s Sandel, 29. “To

me, I feel like this is what God called me to do and gifted me to do. But sometimes,” he adds, smiling, “I feel like I’m a big kid.”

A “social” presenceBush, 38, got into youth

ministry as a happenstance: during a year off from college, the pastor of his Walled Lake, Mich., church asked him to fill in for a year.

“I really wasn’t that passion-ate about it,” Bush remembers. “I made a decision after the first three months: either I was going to pour my heart into it, or I was going to leave it.”

Bush’s affirmation bore out a calling. Four years ago, he was reunited with Prince at First Church of the Nazarene after Prince created a full-time posi-tion for youth pastor.

Still, those who minister to youths sometimes get labeled as glorified “baby sitters,” a ministry fobbed off on green-horn seminary students trying to get their foot in the door.

“‘When are you going to start doing ministry?’ I get that from time to time,” says Ryder, 29.

Those comments come at a time when youth ministry has undergone radical change with the explosion of electronic communication.

Youth ministers have had to adapt to forms of communica-tion favored by teens. That means having a presence on Facebook, texting and tweeting.

“It’s an extension of commu-nication,” Sandel says. “When we use it, it’s how we can be in their realm.”

“Until a year and a half ago, I had never heard of Facebook or MySpace,” Bush admits. “I



thought it was a waste of time. Now I look at it as a tremen-dous tool at my disposal. It’s made communication so much more accessible.”

The Rev. Jenn Simmons of Webster Groves, Mo., who has written extensively on youth ministry, says Facebook has “changed and revolutionized everything,” noting that young people are unabashed in how they use social networks, from expressing their joys and sor-rows to ending relationships publicly.

“They’re willing to share things on Facebook,” adds the Rev. Tasha Blackburn, associ-ate pastor and youth minister at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Springfield, “that they wouldn’t share face to face.”

Young people, Blackburn says, “care about the relationships they develop (in youth min-istry),” even if they’re leery of church as an institu-tion.

“It’s like that book ‘They Like Jesus But Not the Church.’ That’s exactly how kids are,” Blackburn says. “What are you going to put down my throat? What are you trying to convince me of?”

While relationship-building is a component of youth minis-try, so is building a relationship with God, Sandel says.

“If they’re not challenged (in that relationship with God), they

feel that void,” he says.“Most of decisions about

faith are made at the end of junior high or earlier,” Ryder says. “It is humbling to think about.”

“It can be a time of turmoil and vulnerability,” Simmons says. “They have to see church as a safe place for them to gather.”

“It keeps me honest”AuthenticityBlackburn says young peo-

ple want a youth pastor who is

just as open and genuine as they are.

“I stay with it because it does keep me honest, but, boy, they have you doing a range of emotions in the same night,” says Blackburn, 34. “If you had a good night or something resonates, they’ll let you know. On another night, you’ll get hor-

monal attitude.“There’s great joy in the

work, but it’s also humbling. Both are great reasons to stay in it.”

“You have to be bent a dif-ferent way (to do this work),” Ryder says. “I like being in front of kids and doing goofy stuff. I really value where I am.”

“He’s (Ryder) always ener-getic, and he can connect well with high schoolers,” says Chad Long, a junior at Chatham’s Glenwood High School. “He hasn’t been a whole generation removed (from us.)”

Bush says he appreciates First Nazarene creating a

position for a full-time youth pastor. The

church, he says, sees value in

young people, who play in worship bands, run audio-visual equipment and work in the nursery.

“They’re woven in the fabric of the

church,” he insists.

Bush says he tries to model

what he preaches. He knows anything

less wouldn’t be authentic.“I try to keep myself

grounded. Family, kids, my par-enting, my responsibilities. My relationship with God centers on that.

“I can’t lead these students spiritually if I’m not willing to go deeper spiritually.”

Steven Spearie can be reached at (217) 622-1788

or [email protected].

YOUTH PASTORS CONTINUED from page 22

Come worship at Maywood BaptistBy Sandy TurnerThe Examiner

Maywood Baptist Church is breaking down the boundaries and barriers as they take their message to the streets. Investing their energy into the community, the congregation at Maywood is making believers of the old say-ing “actions speak louder than words.”

“Everyone needs a home for their soul,” Pastor Bob Spradling of Maywood Baptist said. “We just want to be an usher to help them find their way.”

Steeped in history, Maywood Baptist has been a part of Independence for over 100 years. The church continues to make history of its’ own with their mission to reach out to the un-churched by leaving the four walls of the church itself.

“There is a certain level of intimidation to enter a church

when you don’t know anyone,” Pastor Spradling said. “You may feel like you’re going to be judged on how you look, how you dress or how little you may know about the word of God. How can we rescue those who are seek-ing help if we don’t enter their world, get involved in their inter-ests and learn about their own heartfelt needs.”

Spradling’s theory is a work-ing ministry in progress and the actions of these Christians, set in motion to touch the lives of oth-ers, is working.

“Our congregation is about diverse as you can get,” he said. “Our senior members have been our greatest asset in break-ing down the barriers between the generations. They embrace everyone who decides to take that first step through the church doors. It’s a rewarding moment when you can witness a 70-year-old greeter embracing the guy

with tattoos who has a criminal history and together they learn God’s truths.”

The congregation at Maywood embraces true evan-gelism with open arms to anyone who is searching for answers to a crumbled life, shattered home or just simply needing a friend.

Thirty of their members are actively involved at Korte and Fairmount elementary schools as youth friends and mentors as well as serving in a cooperative effort with other churches in the area towards programs and activities for those in the com-munity who need a helping hand. A program for attaining a GED is held in the building Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The church offers ministries in various ways from small and large group studies, singing in the choir or Praise Band to youth groups to worship service.


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