the guide_winterspring 2014

8/13/2019 The Guide_WinterSpring 2014

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THE GUIDEto Ministry Opportunities

WINTER/SPRING 2014Maple Grove Evangelical Free Church


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TABLE OF CONTENTS:

INTRO TO WINTER/SPRING 2014

1MGEFC CONNECTIONS 2ADULTS 3STUDENTS 10CHILDREN 13CARE 17COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS 20MISSIONS 21WORSHIP 23STAFF DIRECTORY 24


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THE GUIDEcontains our 2014 Winter and Spring ministry programs andevents at Maple Grove Evangelical Free Church. Browse this catalog to

selec t opportunities within each ministry to CONNECT as family, GROW in

faith and SHARE hope with our world.

The contents of The Guide correspond to each ministry at mgefc.orgfor

ease of navigation and quick reference. Complete information about each

ministry may be found at mgefc.org. If you find something in The Guide that

interests you, simply register for it online or contact the church office.

SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIPOur Sunday morning worship services have different flavors. We encourage

you to try them both to dec ide which you and your family prefer.

The Current / 9:30amA multigenerational worship service with lively music and messages that

CONNECT God's truths with everyday living.

The Current: Remix / 11:00amA multigenerational worship service designed to communicate in a different

way the same message found at The Current. A relaxed and intimate

atmosphere featuring modern music that is a little louder.

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL BUSINESS MEETINGMonday, May 5 | 7:00pm | Worship Center

Members and regular attendees, please attend this meeting to hear

updates and reports about the church and ministries.

WINTER/SPRING 2014

For more information and registrations, visit mgefc.orgor call 763.420.6485. 1

New Online Registration & PaymentWe offer online registration and payment options for many MGEFC eventsand activities. If an event requires a registration, click on the Register link

next to the ministry event to register and/or pay for that particular event.

If the registration page asks you to create an account with an email and

password, please follow the instructions. This will automatically link your

registration with our database and enable you to update and edit some

of your information. You will only need to create one account and will be

able to log in using that account for all other registrations in the future.


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WHEN YOU ARE NEW TO MGEFCWe are so glad you are here! It is important to find a church that fits and

finding the right information is a great place to start. As a larger church we

want to help you get CONNECTED in smaller communities. Please take the

time to learn how you can CONNECT at MGEFC!

WHILE YOU ARE HERE ON SUNDAY

Welcome & Information DeskStop by the Welcome & Information Desk on your way out to meet volunteers

and leaders who can answer any questions you may have about MGEFC.

Family InformationKeep updated on all of the church happenings by completing one of our

family information cards located at the Welcome & Information Desk or on

the reverse side of the share card located in the back of each pew. Once

you complete this card, you will receive our weekly emailed newsletter, the

eDispatch, with upcoming events and announcements.

Childrens ProgramOur weekend childrens programs for children from birth through 6thgrade

create a safe, fun atmosphere where children can learn Bible stories and

participate in age-appropriate worship and activities. Stop by the Welcome

& Information Desk and a volunteer will be happy to escort you to your

childrens classrooms.

BEYOND SUNDAYNEWCOMERS' LUNCHSundays, J anuary 26 & May 4 | 12:30pm | Kid Zone

Plan on attending a CONNECTION lunch as Pastor J on and MGEFC staff

introduce you to the church's vision and values and lay out some great

next steps for you and your family! Register online.

DISCOVERY CLASSES

Starting Tuesday, April 29 | 6:30pm | Kid ZoneDiscovery Classes help you become a GROWING part of Gods family

here. We believe God wants each of us to take the next step spiritually

to GROW in our relationship with him. Each Discovery Class builds upon

the others and will help you CONNECT as family, GROW in faith and

SHARE hope with your world. For full details, see page 4.

MGEFC CONNECTIONS

2 For more information and registrations, visit mgefc.orgor call 763.420.6485.


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ADULT BIBLE FELLOWSHIPS [ABFs]ABFs let you start CONNECTING as family here at MGEFC. In each of our ABFs,

you will have an opportunity to meet and build relationships with other adults

and study Gods Word together. ABFs provide a place to be involved, known

and loved.

Who can attend an ABF?ABFs may be attended by anyone who is 18 years of age or older. You will

find a mix of newer attendees and long time members in each group.

Why attend an ABF?In a larger church, it can be hard to know where to start CONNECTING withothers. Getting involved in an ABF will help you get to know other people

and let other people get to know you. Followers of Christ desire to GROW in

their faith and CONNECT with other like-minded believers. ABFs facilitate your

growth in faith and in friendship with others.

When do ABFs happen?ABFs are offered on Sunday mornings during each worship service. You are

welcome to join a class at any time.

ABF Opportunities SONRISE ABF (for early risers of all ages)

Sundays | 8:15am | Youth Room

A gathering of like-minded early risers, married or single, who want to

CONNECT as they study God's Word, support one another and pray.

YOUNG COUPLES ABF (for young couples)Sundays | 9:30am | South East Meeting Room

Whether you are just starting married life or are a few years into marriage,

meet new friends, examine Gods Word and get supported in prayer.

YOUNG FAMILIES ABF (for young families in 30's and 40's)

Sundays | 9:30am | Classroom 245

Learn from the Bible, build community and get CONNECTED with other

couples starting their families.

REDISCOVERY ABF (for couples and singles age 50 and up)

Sundays | 11:00am | Youth Room

For those looking toward retirement, empty nesting or caregiving for

loved ones, come for fellowship, Bible study, support and prayer.

ADULTS. ABF



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CONNECT GROUPSJ ust like Lego blocks snap and click together, God designed us to CONNECT

and snap into a church family. At MGEFC we want to help you CONNECT

with other Christians and find friends, so check out a Connect Group and

find one that fits you!

Made up of 10-14 people, Connect Groups meet about twice a month in

a relaxed atmosphere to develop caring relationships and GROW in faith

together. They run for approximately 2-3 months with open registrations twice

a year. Whether you snap into the perfect fit on your first try or need some

time to test out other groups, our semester-based system is designed to meet

you where you are at.

Get more information on open Connec t Groups and register during our

Winter Registration.

Contact: Danielle Allen / dan ie l lea@mgefc .o rg

DISCOVERY CLASSESDiscovery Classes help you become a GROWING part of Gods family here.

We believe God wants each of us to take the next step spiritually to GROW in

our relationship with him. Each Discovery Class builds upon the others and will

help you CONNECT as family, GROW in faith and SHARE hope with your world.

Take them all as a series or one at a time the pace is up to you as you

discover your next steps at MGEFC!

Discovery Core ClassesOur Discovery Core C lasses (101-401) build the foundation to CONNECTING

as family and GROWING in faith here. Ideal for newcomers, but also good for

attendees looking for next steps, our Core Classes help you to CONNECT and

get to know our church and GROW in faith. Each 101-401 series is offered in

numerica l order and several times a year.

ADULTS. CONNECT GROUPS & DISCOVERY CLASSES



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STARTING POINT

Session 1 | Sundays, J anuary 19-February 16 | 11:00am | Classroom 245

Session 2 | Sundays, April 27-May 25 | 11:00am | Classroom 245

Are you new to the Christian faith or need a refresher on the essential

elements of a relationship with J esus Christ? Then this class is for you. We

will walk you through the Bible and teach you principles every Christian

should know to develop a GROWING relationship with Christ. A Bible is

the required curriculum for this 5-week class taught by J ohn Latterell.

101: DISCOVER MGEFC

Tuesdays, April 29 & May 6 | 6:30pm | Kid Zone

J oin us for a basic introduction to our church family, meet our pastor and

delve into topics like our church's vision and values, statement of faith

and what membership means here at MGEFC. (Prerequisite for MGEFC

membership.) Childcare provided by reservation.

201: DISCOVER SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Tuesday, May 13 | 6:30pm | Kid Zone

Spiritual growth isnt a set of rules and regulations, but a life-long journey

in building a relationship with J esus Christ. This class will help you develop

habits you need to jump-start your spiritual growth: daily time in Gods

Word, prayer, tithing and living in community. (Prerequisite for MGEFC

membership.) Childcare provided by reservation.

301: DISCOVER YOUR MINISTRY


Did you know that God created you with special gifts and passions

intended for his purposes? This class will help you discover and

understand your spiritual gifts in order to use them in a fulfilling way

to serve God and others. Childcare provided by reservation.

401: DISCOVER YOUR INFLUENCE


God has called each of us to influence others with the saving message

of J esus Christ. This class will equip and motivate you to SHARE your faith

in a style that is all your own. Childcare provided by reservation.

ADULTS. DISCOVERY CLASSES



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WOMENS MINISTRY: inSIGNIAWomens Ministry desires to help women bear the unmistakable INSIGNIA of

J esus Christ as we seek to INTERSECT lives with one another, INSTILL truth in our

hearts and INFLUENCE others for Christ.

inSTILL: Bible StudyTa ke t im e to INSTILL G o d s Wo rd in yo ur hea rt th ro ug h Bib le stud y, p ra ye r &

in te ra c t ion w ith o ther wom en.

WINTER SESSION

SATISFY MY THIRSTY SOUL BY LINDA DILLOW

Thursdays, J anuary 9-February 20 | MGEFC | $15AM Session | 9:30-11:30am | childcare available ($25/1 child, $35/2+ children)

PM Session | 7:00-9:00pm | no childcare available

Do you yearn for intimacy with God? Do you long to know his presence,

to be satisfied in heart and soul, but you dont know how? As you learn

a lifestyle of worship, you will be drawn into Gods life-giving presence

the place where God will truly satisfy your thirsty soul. Register and pay

online for study and childcare. Sc ho la rship s a va ila b le up o n re q ue st.

COVENANT BY KAY ARTHUR

Thursdays, J anuary 9-April 17 (no study February 27 & April 3)| MGEFC | $25

AM Session ONLY | 9:30-11:30am | childcare available ($45/1 child, $55/2+)

Mine the riches of Gods Word for yourself and study the incredible

thread of covenant running from Genesis to Revelation. This study, a

lighter version of the Precept upon Precept course, will transform the

way you read scripture and help you dive into Gods binding agreement

with his people and discover that he always keeps his promises. Studyincludes weekly video sessions by Kay Arthur. Register and pay online

for study and childcare. Sc ho la rship s a va ila b le up o n re q ue st.

WONDERSTRUCK BY MARGARET FEINBERG

Thursdays, March 6-April 24 (no study on April 3)| MGEFC | $15

AM Session | 9:30-11:30am | childcare available ($25/1 child, $35/2+ children)

PM Session | 7:00-9:00pm | no childcare available

Filmed in the Canadian Rockies, this study will remind you what it meansto awaken to wonder every day. Sometimes we do and say the right

things, but our hearts remain disconnected from God. We lose our sense

of holy awe. You are invited to drink in the fullness of life as God intended.

Register and pay online for study and childcare. Sc ho la rship s a va ila b le

up on req uest .

ADULTS. WOMEN



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inFUSE: MentoringWa lk alo ng sid e a no the r w om a n to d isc ov er the joy o f INFUSING G o d s lo ve

into he r life .

Whether mentor or mentee, these intentional relationships are based on a

six month commitment and are the next step in GROWING as a disciple of

J esus. If you are already in a mentoring relationship, our mentoring prayer

team would like to cover you in prayer. Please contact our ministry to make

a new mentoring CONNECTION.

Contact:Gay Hedberg / gay .hedbe rg@gma i l . com

inSYNC: Encouraging and EquippingLea rn to live a life IN SYNC w ith the Lord th ro ug h p ra c t ic a l tea c hing a nd

encou ragemen t .

MOPS (MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS)

2nd& 4thTuesdays | September 24-May 13 | 9:30-11:30am | MGEFC

MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers, is an international non-profit organization

that exists to encourage, equip and support women with young children

(from birth through kindergarten) to become the best moms they can

be. Our meetings feature brunch, a speaker, a creative activity, plussmall group discussion that allows members to support each other

through the journey of motherhood.

Contact: Rachel Siefert /m a p leg rove m op s@gm a il.c om

WOMEN LEARNING TO PRAY

Wednesdays | 9:30-11:00am | J eanne Laitinen's home

J oin other women for a time of prayer and support. You are welcome to

come any time you can. "No on e is b orn a p ra yer hero . We a re refined inthe fie ld of p ra c t ic e . " Dutc h Shee ts

Contact:J eanne Laitinen / 763.670.2868 /jea nne l@m g efc .o rg

inSPIRE: Special EventsBe INSPIRED to g e t invo lve d , g e t re a l o r g e t m o ving in yo ur fa ith, you r c hurc h

a nd yo ur re la t io nship s.

RENEW WOMEN'S RETREAT

Friday-Sunday, J anuary 24-26 | Camp Lebanon | $130

J oin other women for a weekend getaway to CONNECT and recharge

your relationship with God. Let the Renew Retreat refresh you for the

coming year and renew your heart, your mind and your strength in God.

Register and pay online.

ADULTS. WOMEN



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Other Resources for Women BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP

Wednesdays | 9:30-11:20am | MGEFC

BSF is a non-denominational Bible study that uses personal study, lecture

and small group discussion to understand the Bible. This year, BSF will be

studying Matthew. While BSF is hosted at MGEFC, BSF group members

are from many different churches and denominations in our community.

Contact: Kerri Larson / 612.306.5032 /kerri_la rso n@ya ho o .c om

MOMS IN PRAYER

Moms in Prayer (formerly named Moms in Touch) impacts children and

schools worldwide for Christ by gathering mothers to pray. The vision is

that every school in the world would be covered in prayer. Groups are

available for moms with children in elementary, secondary and college.

Contact: Mary Nelson / 763.420.6938

MENS MINISTRY: INTENTIONAL MEN (IM)Men's Ministry desires to help men be spiritual leaders of their homes, loving

husbands and dedicated fathers. In todays culture these roles can be

challenging and confusing to live out. We exist to help men GROW in Christs

leadership by being in Gods Word daily and having Christian men holding

one another accountable to live by faith and conviction.

Men's Small GroupsA g rea t w a y to GROW in yo ur sp iritua l w a lk.

TRIADS

Small groups of three or more men meet on a regular basis to focus ondiscipleship, spiritual growth and accountability.

Contact: Roger Bottazzi / rbot t1@aol .com

Men's Special EventsA g rea t w a y to m ee t o ther me n, get CO NNECTED a nd SHARE hop e.

MEN'S MINISTRY BREAKFAST

Saturday, March 1 | 8:00am | Community Room

J oin us for a morning of CONNECTING with other guys, enjoying a heartybreakfast and learning more about Mens Ministry at MGEFC.

ADULTS. WOMEN



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Men's Bible StudiesA g rea t p la c e to GROW in your fa ith th roug h G od s Word a nd d isc ussion .

BIBLE STUDYTuesdays | 7:00pm | MGEFC

J oin other men of all ages as they gather weekly at church to study

Gods Word, pray and get to know other guys.

Contact: Dave Uherka / dave .uhe rka@comcas t .ne t

BIBLE STUDY

Wednesdays | 6:00am | MGEFC

J oin other men as we dive deeper into God's Word to challenge andencourage one another.

Contact: Abe McMahan / 763.257.9782 / ab raham.mcmahan@mdlz .com

BIBLE STUDY

Thursdays | 9:00am | Cabela's, Rogers

J oin with other men to study God's Word and discuss it together.

Contact: Rob Watlov / robwat lov@earth l ink.net

LAMPLIGHTER STUDY

Thursdays | 8:00pm | Barnes & Noble, Maple Grove

Men of all ages are invited to study Lamplighters discipleship study

on the book of J ohn. Lamplighters is a Christian ministry focused on

intentional discipleship.

Contact: Byron Berry / b yro nrbe rry@m sn.c om

REDISCOVERY MONTHLY BREAKFAST ROUND TABLE1stWednesday of month | 6:00am | Original Pancake House, Maple Grove

This group for men 50 and up meets for breakfast, fellowship and

encouragement.

Contact: Mark Petersen / empetersen18331@comcast .net

CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP CONCEPTS (CLC)

A 2-year, comprehensive program designed to model, teach and

encourage practical application of biblical principles while providinga way for men to develop life long friendships with other men of faith.

Contact: Steve Neubauer / s teve .neubauer@atk .com

ADULTS. MEN



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SR. HIGH10th 12thgrade studentsCheck mgefc.org/srhighfor most up-to-date information and subscribe to

our online calendarto have sr. high events automatically added to your

calendar or smartphone.

Regular Events No registration requiredFUEL (FAITH ULTIMATELY EXPRESSES LOVE)

Mondays starting J anuary 6 | 7:00-8:00pm | MGEFC

Our weekly, large group turns up the intensity by incorporating worship,

testimonies, video and teaching from Gods Word. It allows students to

renew, recharge and be refreshed for the week.

RE:FUEL

Mondays starting J anuary 6 | 8:00-9:00pm (fellowship until 9:30pm)| MGEFC

These small group Bible Studies meet weekly after FUEL and are designed

for students looking to GROW deeper in their relationship with God and

other students. Groups are split up by gender and led by highly qualified,

adult volunteers. Students are welcome to hang out after for fellowship

in our Crossroads Caf or engage in sports driven activities in our

Community Room.

SUNDAY MORNING HARAMBEE

Sundays starting J anuary 5 | 9:30am | Youth Room

Our Sunday morning get together is an exciting, non-threatening

environment conducive for interactive conversation of simple and

complex principles in Gods Word.

Special Events Register for sr. high events at mgefc.org/srhighFUEL WINTER FEST 13

Monday, January 20 | 2:00-8:00pm | MGEFC | $5

A great time to embrace everything winter has to offer and enjoy

outdoor winter ac tivitiesespecially broomball! Everyone can play

and warm up by the bonfire. Sledding, indoor board games, food

and hot drinks will be provided. Bring your friends!

DULUTH SPRING BLITZ CONFERENCE

Friday-Sunday, April 25-27 | Duluth, MN | $130

Cutting edge worship led by great worship bands, student-led prayer,

challenging messages by powerful speakers and faith-deepening

breakout workshops are the highlights of this youth conference.

Registration and $50 deposit due March 9. Remainder due April 6.

STUDENTS. SENIOR HIGH



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CHALLENGE 2014

J uly 6-11 | Kansas City, MO | $575

Challenge 2014 is about spreading the fame of the One who rescues

and restores. The theme is Restored: Live the Story. Tell the Story.

Challenge will be a catalytic week for equipping, maturing and

sending out transformed disciples of J esus. For more information about

Challenge, check out challengeconference.org. 9thgraders invited!

Registration and $100 deposit due March 3.

JR. HIGH7th 9thgrade studentsCheck mgefc.org/jrhighfor most up-to-date information and subscribe to

our online calendarto have jr. high events automatically added to your

calendar or smartphone.

Our J esus-focused, Bible-teaching, disciple-making junior high ministry exists

to encourage jr. high students to:

CONNECT in relationships where they can be known, loved & cared for

GROW in personal faith and a love relationship with J esus Christ

SHARE hope and make a positive difference in our world

Sunday Night Oasis No registration requiredSundays, J anuary 12-April 20 | 7:00-8:30pm | MGEFC

Oasis provides relevant Bible teaching, interactive worship, fellowship, games,

testimonies, small group mentoring, service projects, retreats, leadership

development, soc ials and conferences. Friends are always welcome!

XX/XY GAMES & PIZZA FEED OASIS

Sunday, J anuary 12 | 6:00-8:30pm | MGEFC | $3 for pizza

Our 2014 kickoff where it's the G irls vs. the Guys with the Camp

Shamineau staff will be a fun night of unity building as we reconnect

after Christmas break and kick off the new year together.

Sunday Morning Student Impact No registration requiredSundays, J anuary 5-April 13 | 9:30am

Girls: Northwest Wing | Boys: CommonBond C ommunity Room

For students who want to GROW in their faith through a weekly study of God'sWord so they can know what they believe and why it matters. Please bring

your Bible each week.

STUDENTS. JUNIOR HIGH



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SUNDAY MORNINGWorship, Big God Story, small groups, activities and snacks are offered for

children of a ll ages on Sunday mornings. Children must be the designated

ages before September 1, 2013.

NURSERY | INFANT2 YEARS OLD

Sundays | 9:30 & 11:00am | Nursery Hallway, upper level

PRESCHOOL | 2 YEARS OLDPRE-KINDERGARTEN

Sundays | 9:30 & 11:00am | Preschool Hallway, lower level

PRE-KINDERGARTEN | 4 YEARSPRE-KINDERGARTENSundays | 9:30 & 11:00am | Kingdom Kids Room, lower level

ELEMENTARY | KINDERGARTEN1STGRADE

Sundays | 9:30 & 11:00am | J ungle Room, lower level

ELEMENTARY | 2ND4THGRADE

Sundays | 9:30 & 11:00am | Kid Zone, upper level

SURGE | 5TH6THGRADE

Sundays | 9:30am | Surge Room, lower level

CUSTOM MADE | SPECIAL NEEDS

Sundays | 11:00am | South East Meeting Room, lower level

WEDNESDAY NIGHT WEDNESDAY DINNER

Wednesdays starting J anuary 8| 5:00-6:00pm | MGEFC

$3 adults | $2 elementary children | $1 preschoolers

Bring the family for a delicious meal before Quest 2>52 on Wednesday

nights. Ease the transition from a busy day to a great night at church.

QUEST 2>52

Wednesdays starting J anuary 15 | 6:15-7:45pm | MGEFC

Fast-paced, high-energy, evening kids' club program during the school

year for 3 year olds through 6thgrade. Includes worship, Bible stories,

games and small group interaction. Kids are encouraged to invite

friends.

CHILDREN



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VOLUNTEERSResearch indicates kids and youth need at least five people, in addition to

parents, to build into their lives in order to pass on a lasting faith. Whatever

your giftteaching, shepherding, greeting, preparing snacksyou can make

a difference and be one of a child'sfive! Current opportunities include:

K-1stGrade Co-Teacher| Sundays | 11:00am | ever other week

2nd-4thGrade Co-Teacher| Sundays | 11:00am | every other week

Designed By God (Special Needs) Co-Teacher| Sundays | 11:00am

Nursery Caregivers| Sundays | 9:30 & 11:00am

Trekker (K-2ndGrade) Leaders| Wednesdays | 6:15pm

Contact: Kristy Kratky / kristyk@m g e fc .org

SPECIAL EVENTS

For Families F3: SLEDDING PARTY

Wednesday, J anuary 8 | 6:15-7:45pm | MGEFC

Combine family, faith and fun (F3) at this event for all kids and families.

Come for sledding, hot chocolate, fellowship and dodgeball. Childcareprovided for infants-3 year olds. Wednesday dinner available before.

F3: PINEWOOD DERBY

Wednesday, February 26 | 6:15-7:45pm | Community Room

Kindergarten-6thgraders may race cars built from a kit purchased at

MGEFC. Youth and adults may also bring a car for the open race.

Childcare provided for infants-3 year olds. Food available for purchase.

PRAISE PLAYERS' MUSICAL

Saturday, March 15, 6:30pm | Sunday, March 16, 11:00am | MGEFC

The lead designer at the app factory realizes that his app about God

IAM does no good unless people are seeking God in their real lives

with their whole heart. Kids in kindergarten-6thgrade are invited to

join the fun. Visit mgefc.org/praiseplayersfor more details about

participation, parent meeting and rehearsals. Register and pay online.

EXPLORER'S OVERNIGHT

Friday, March 21 | 8:00pm-8:00am | MGEFC | $5 for pizza

Boys in 3rd-6thgrade will have a blast playing games, eating, watching

movies, eating, hanging out with the guys and eating! Bring a snack to

share and bring a friend!

CHILDREN



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Just for Parents PARENT & CHILD DEDICATION

Parent Class | Sunday, J anuary 5 | 11:00am | Surge Room

Dedication | Sunday, J anuary 12 | 9:30am | Worship Center

Dedication shows that parents desire God's wisdom and strength as they

raise their children. Dedication doesn't ensure salvation, but is a public

dec laration of a personal commitment to spiritually nurture their children.

Register online.

INSIDE KIDS' QUEST

Wednesday, J anuary 15 | 6:30-7:30pm | Classroom 245

Sunday, J anuary 19 | 11:00am-12:00pm | Surge Room

Parents, if you want to know what we do in Childrens Ministry and why

we do it, this is the best use of an hour youll have! Come and meet other

parents and teachers and find out how home and church can CONNECT

most effectively. Register online.

PARENT & TEACHER RECHARGE

Wednesday, J anuary 29 | 6:15-7:45pm | MGEFC

Discipline provides a tremendous opportunity for parents to teach their

kids lifes most important lessons. Learn about "Discipline That Connects,"

a biblical and useful approach to discipline. J im & Lynne J ackson will

leave you laughing, crying, encouraged and equipped to uniquely

bring Gods grace to life at home and in the classroom. Invite others

who could benefit from learning how to be better teachers and parents.

Wednesday dinner available before. No Quest 2>52, but childcare

available upon request. Register online to attend and for childcare.

MOMS IN PRAYER

Moms in Prayer (formerly named Moms in Touch) impacts children and

schools worldwide for Christ by gathering mothers to pray. The vision is

that every school in the world would be covered in prayer. Groups are

available for moms with children in elementary, secondary and college.

Contact: Mary Nelson / 763.420.6938

CHILDREN



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SURGEPreteens in 5thand 6thgrade.Register for all SURGE events at mgefc.org/surge.

Friends are always welcome!

BIG BASE KICKBALL

Saturday, J anuary 25 | 1:00-3:00pm | Community Room | $1 for snacks

Have fun playing this fast-paced ball game set up in the community

room. Enjoy fellowship, competition and snacks.

BIG THRILL FACTORY

Saturday, February 22 | 10:30am-2:00pm | Big Thrill Factory | $30

Enjoy a day of bowling, laser tag, bumper cars and arcade games. Cost

includes 2 hours of play and food. Drop off and pickup at MGEFC.

INDOOR MINI GOLF

Saturday, April 12 | 11:30am-1:30pm | Community Room | $3 for pizza

Create and play your own indoor mini golf course.

OASIS INVITATION & CONNECT TIME FOR GRADUATING 6TH

GRADERSSunday, May 4 | 9:30am | Surge Room

Graduating 6thgraders get the chance to meet and ask questions of the

Oasis jr. high leaders and students.

SURGE RETREAT

Friday, May 9, 5:00pm-Saturday, May 10, 2:00pm | Edenwood | $50

Don't miss this exciting growth and CONNECTING retreat. Meet at

MGEFC to carpool to Edenwood Retreat Center in Eden Prairie.

6THGRADE GRADUATION

Sunday, J une 8 | 11:00am | Surge Room

Parents and teachers will send our 6thgrade students into the Oasis jr.

high youth ministry at this special milestone celebration.

OASIS DONUT DERBY FOR GRADUATED 6THGRADERS

Sunday, J une 8 | 12:15pm | Community Room

The official kickoff to jr. high Oasis introduces new students and their

parents to this exciting ministry.

CHILDREN. SURGE



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God designed his church to be built with many members working together to

fulfill the needs of the body and to glorify him. As one family in him, we grieve

and rejoice together; endure and GROW together; serve and be served

together. As one family, we bear each others burdens and with Christ as ourmodel, we joyfully follow his example.

Contact:Lynn Hanf / [email protected]

CRISIS & CONTINUING CAREIMMEDIATE CARE

Those facing a life threatening crisis with an immediate need for care

from ministry staff may contact the church office during office hours or

use the emergency pager system after hours.

FUNERALS

Funeral services may be held at MGEFC. Our MGEFC staff and family

come together to help provide for the needs of the family.

CHURCH FAMILY CAREHOSPITAL AND SHUT-IN VISITATION

We offer prayer, biblical support and encouragement to those from ourchurch family who are hospitalized or home bound.

FINANCIAL COUNSELING

This ministry providesfinancial counseling and assessment to help those

from our church family solve their financial difficulties.

BENEVOLENCE

Members or regular attendees fac ing overwhelming financial hardshipmay meet to discuss their situation and the possibility of assistance.

CHRISTIAN COUNSELING

If you would benefit from Christian counseling, our pastoral staff can

assist you in the referral process.

CARE



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MARRIAGE CAREWEDDINGS

We welcome members and regular attendees to unite in marriage at

the church. Premarital counseling helps couples determine their level of

readiness for marriage and prepares them for married life. A wedding

coordinator assists on-site weddings.

PREMARITAL CLASSES

Premarital classes help couples prepare for their marriage with a firm

spiritual foundation.

MARRIAGE MENTORINGTrained marriage mentor couples come alongside you and your spouse

to encourage, teach communication skills, help with conflict resolution

and evaluate strength and growth areas in your marriage.

Contact: Marc & Geri Nelson / 763.458.3052 / mngn1026@comcast .ne t

Chuck & Shari Minell / 763.464.9339 / sm ine ll@ho tm a il.c om

SUPPORTPOINT MAN MINISTRIES

1stThursday of the month | 7:00pm | Classroom 245

Point Man Ministries brings spiritual and emotional healing to veterans

of all wars and branches of service, men and women. Each meeting

begins with a short prayer and devotional, followed by a meet and

greet session, and ends with an informal time to CONNECT with each

other on a personal basis.

Contact:J im Graser / 763.354.8738

CARE



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PRAYERSUNDAY PRAYER TEAM

Experience the blessing of prayer after Sunday morning worship services.

Contact: Dave & Connie Swan / 763.561.3982 / ed umo m@c om c ast .ne t

PRAYER CHAIN PRAYER WARRIORS

Dedicated people from our church pray for the needs of others. You

may join at any time. Prayer requests may be submitted online or

through the church office.

Contact: Cathy Christie / D-cchr is t ie@comcast .net

PRAYER SHAWLS

Knit or crocheted by loving hands and prayed for, the gift of a prayer

shawl blesses those in sorrow and celebration.

Contact:J udy Mackey / 763.420.8634

ELDER/PASTORAL PRAYER

Pastoral staff and/or elders cover you in prayer and anointing.

Contact: Lynn Hanf / l [email protected]

WOMEN LEARNING TO PRAY

Wednesdays | 9:30-11:00am | J eanne Laitinen's home

J oin other women for a time of prayer and support. You are welcome to

come any time you can. "No on e is b orn a p ra yer hero . We a re refined in

the fie ld of p ra c t ic e . " Dutc h Shee ts

Contact:J eanne Laitinen / 763.670.2868 /jea nne l@m g efc .o rg

CARE



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SHARE hope by being the hands and feet of J esus in the inner city and in our

own Maple Grove backyard. Get involved with our Community Partnership

events by looking for various opportunities highlighted on a monthly basis

that let us SHARE hope as a church body!

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP EVENTS

FebruaryCOMPETE 2014: FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN CROSS OUT HUNGER

COMPETITION

Saturday, February 8 | 4:30-6:30pm | FMSC Coon Rapids

FMSC relies on volunteers to pack meals to send to hungry families world-

wide. J oin us in this competitive drive to benefit malnourished families.

You can assemble your own team or join one already competing.

Contact: Heidi Estrada / heid i .m.estrada@gmai l .com

MarchURBAN HOMEWORKS WORK DAY

Saturday, March 15 | 8:00am-3:00pm | North Minneapolis

Become the hands and feet of J esus in North Minneapolis as we partner

with Urban Homeworks! Sign up online to serve doing construction

and clean up projects and learn more about the ministry of Urban

Homeworks in North Minneapolis. Registration is limited.

EMPTY BOWLS

Thursday, March 13 | 11:00am-7:00pm | Maple Grove Community Center

Enjoy a delicious cup of soup as you peruse and purchase locally hand

crafted bowls. All proceeds help CROSS Food Shelf. Volunteers also

needed for this event!

Contact: Pam Hanson / ant iqu i typam@aol .com

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP TEAMSLooking for more ways to get involved? Register to serve on one of our

Community Partnership Teams at mgefc.org/communitypartners.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS



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The Missions' Leadership Team assists and upholds the church in fulfilling

Christ's Great Commission to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20).

Our goal is to help our congregation:

GROW in vision and passion for missions, CONNECT with our missionaries and projects, and

SHARE the gospel with all peoples, especially the unreached.

Mission Trip NewsCHOLUTECA, HONDURAS

Please pray for our Honduras mission team serving J anuary 17-26, 2014.

A team of 22 people will partner with the Choluteca GCLA (Great

Commission Latin America) Church to serve in several exciting ways:

lead a Vacation Bible School

work with the malnutrition clinic and daycare center in Limon

evangelize under the guidance of the local church

help build a house for a needy family in Las Brisas

assist with various construction projects such as painting, building

a fence for the daycare or whatever else is advised.

The prayers and support of our church body are greatly apprec iated!

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

Former MGEFC members and current ReachGlobal (EFCA) missionaries,

J eff and Diane Droogsma, have invited us to join them in an exciting

initiative during the World Cup soccer games June 12J uly 13, 2014. They

will partner with the Brazilian church and ReachGlobals TREK7 short term

program in Project Liberadade bringing the gospel to a Rio red light

district. See more at go.efca.organd c lick on Rio de J aneiro/TREK7.

Contact:Missions' Leadership Team/ m g e fcm issio ns@m g efc .o rg

ANDAHUAYLAS, PERU

J oel and Giannina Posner and their children currently serve with Kids

Alive in the mountains of Peru. They would appreciate a team from

their home church (MGEFC) partnering with them this next year for

a childrens VBS program and adult Bible studies.

Contact:Randy and J eri Gort / rgor [email protected]

RWANDAPlease pray for the Evangelical Free Church of Rwanda and Pastor Esron

and his wife Kezia Maniragaba and their family. Pray for Christ-centered

unity and strong leadership in the local church, the church plants

throughout Rwanda and their Christian schools and students. We are

considering a short term service trip to Rwanda in the future.

Contact:Shane Mason / shanermason@gmai l .com

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Praying for Our MissionariesNot only do our missionaries apprec iate the financial support provided by

MGEFC, they apprec iate our prayers. Pray for wisdom, focus and fruit in

ministry. Ask the Lord to encourage, protect and provide for each one.

LOCAL (TWIN CITIES) PARTNERS

C.R.O.S.S., Feed My Starving Children, Robbinsdale Womens Center,

Timber Bay: Bruce Kratky, Brad Lien, Dan Miles

U.S. BASED PARTNERS

Mark & Mary Jean Coyne(Navigators, CO), Ryan & Laura Elliot(Cru, OH),

Neil & Sue Grindheim(Navigators, CO), Mike & Linda Gunderson

(ReachGlobal, Latin America), Nate & Lori Johnson(Cru, CO),Dan & Debby Minell (Heres Life Inner City, New York City, NY),

Rob & Jackie Passer(ReachGlobal, NY, Crisis Response),

Charlie & Abbie Schaller(Cru, IA), Reid & Misty Zeller(Cru, CA)

GLOBAL OUTREACH PARTNERS AND PROJECTS INCLUDE:

Jen Blevins(ReachGlobal, Haiti),John & Mary Carlson(Prairie Bridge

International, East Asia), Denny & Nicole DeBruyn(ReachGlobal,

Germany, not yet deployed),Jeff & Diane Droogsma(ReachGlobal,Brazil),Joel & Giannina Posner(Kids Alive, Peru), Steve & Liz Spellman

(ReachGlobal, Southern Brazil & Haiti),Josh & Heidi Thulin(Africa Inland

Missions On-Field Media, Kenya), Carlos Gomez(Great Commission

Latin America, Costa Rica), Educate Rwanda & Pastor Esron Maniragaba

(Evangelical Free Church of Rwanda), MATTOO Men Against The

Trafficking Of Others, Poland Evangelical Mission

Ongoing Course OfferingA TALE OF TWO COVENANTS BIBLE STUDY

Have you wondered what J esus may have shared with the two disciples

while walking on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:27)? A Bible study called

A Ta le o f Tw o C ove na ntsexplores what Jesus likely highlighted. This study

traces God's ancient promises from Genesis to Revelation and helps

provide a solid biblical basis for missions. Taught by Rob Droullard and

Andrew Sternke, the course can be covered in four sessions.

Contact:Rob Droullard / rcdroul lard@gmai l .com

WHEN HELPING HURTS

The Missions' Leadership Team is reading a book suggested by our

short term teams called Whe n Helping Hurts: Alle via t ing Po ve rty Witho ut

Hurt ing the Poo ra nd Yo urse lfby Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. We

highly recommend it to you! Pick up a copy or borrow one of ours.

Contact:Missions' Leadership Team/ m g e fcm issio ns@m g efc .o rg

MISSIONS



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For every worship service or special event at MGEFC, we purpose to honor

God through the creativity that he instilled within us and to communicate

the life-changing gospel message. To get involved, please register for an

audition appointment at mgefc.org/worship.Contact:J ared Sells /ja re d s@mge fc .o rgor Nate Sheppard / [email protected]

GET PLUGGED IN!We want to CONNECT your God-given gifts and talents in several areas of

ministry responsibility. Teams are needed for Sunday morning worship, jr. and

sr. high worship and for other ministry events (women's, men's, children's).

Music Ministry TeamMembers of the Music Ministry Team work closely with the Production Teamto intentionally build Christ-centered environments for worship using their

musical gifts and talents.

Worship Leaders

Vocalists

Instrumentalists

Production TeamThe Production Team is the foundation for making the corporate worshipgatherings a God-honoring environment. The Production Team fills the

following responsibilities and roles:

Planning for holidays and special events

Live Sound (FOH engineers & Audio Techs)

Visual Projection (sermon PowerPoint, worship lyrics, video projection)

Sermon Podcast Production

Video Pre- and Post-Production (editing & shooting)

Lighting (design & control)

Stage Design (design & construction)

Production Grips/Stage Hands (set up, tear down)

UshersThe first four minutes of any encounter can establish the tone for the rest

of the relationship. That's why our ushers are such an important part of our

ministry. They are on the front lines providing warm and hospitable service to

those entering our worship services each week. Ushering is a simple and easy

way to serve with a very flexible schedule.

WORSHIP



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the guide_winterspring 2014

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