Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Join us this evening for our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 6 pm! It will be a special time of celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus! 

 

How grateful we are for our church family at Anoka Wesleyan! May you have a Christ-filled Christmas as you gather with family and friends! 

Live Nativity

Thanks to all who participated in the Live Nativity last evening! A special blessing was to have the Mike Kisrow family join us and Christmas carol for a good portion of the time!! We pray our presence was a ministry to those who drove by reminding them that Jesus indeed is the Reason for the Season!

It's Thanksgiving!

Thank you, thank you to everyone who participated in our Harvest Dinner on Sunday evening! The food was delicious and the fellowship was very special! I loved hearing your 22 reasons for being thankful!!! And we were able to show Christ's love in a tangible way to a young man who came that evening...awesome night! And weren't you blessed in the morning worship service by Pastor Tim's message on the grace and truth paradox!

Thanksgiving will be here in just a few short days...mark down on your calendar to come to our Thanksgiving Eve service on Wednesday, November 21st, at 7 pm! What better way to start this special holiday than gathering together as the family of God to express our love and gratitude to our heavenly  Father!   Have an awesome time with family and friends as you gather together on Thanksgiving...know how thankful we are for you!!!

Last of all, our sympathy is extended to Linda Jech and family. Linda's aunt Norma passed away today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Be Sure To Vote On Tuesday, November 6th

I have been working on a letter to send to you in regards to Tuesday's election; however, today I received an excellent letter from a pastor friend who said it so well, so I will share a portion with you.   Thanks, Pastor Mike! 

Over the last few weeks I have felt an increasing prompting to write a note to you in regards to the upcoming election. Now, with the election just a few days away, I felt it was time to share my heart and call us as a Church to respond.

Writing this note reminded me of a story a friend of mine tells about an elderly gentleman who was sitting on a park bench, basking in the sun one afternoon, when another elderly fellow sat down. They looked at each other for a moment but did not speak. Both men sat there, staring straight ahead. After a while, one of them heaved a big, heartfelt sigh. The other jumped up immediately and said, "If you're going to talk politics, I'm leaving." Probably all of us are ready for the commercials and the political claims to be done and for us to get back to life as normal, but do not let the reality of this moment slip by. As Christians, we have a privilige and, I beleive, a calling to be front and center this election day. Whenever I begin to talk about this with Christians, there are three key questions that often come up: Why should I vote? Some of the reason we ask this question comes from the question as to whether one vote really will make a difference. This is the wrong question for a believer. The reality is, we have been given responsibility and authority to influence our world, and we should seize every opportunity to do so. How do I vote? As a Christian, our obligation is to vote in a way that best represents and opens the door for the Lord's influence to be fully felt in our world. This means that we have to spend time prayerfully researching each issue and candidate. Use the 10 Commandments as a baseline. Does the issue/candidate allow for freedom to worship and follow God? Does the candidate/issue protect the innocent from murder? How does the issue further Biblical values for the family? Are the economic issues morally right (not stealing), honest, selfless, and provide provision for those who are in need? For specific help on how to vote, we have provided links in this letter to voters' guides. How do I repond if I disagree? In one word, we are to respond with "civility." Romans 13 makes it clear that all authority is to be treated with respect and honor, even if we disagree. We have lost civility in our culture when it comes to conflict. We prefer to accuse rather than actually discuss. It's time Christians model what it means to have conflict with civility and love. The issues in this election are critical for the future of the next several generations. This election is so critical that Billy Graham, who has typicaly been somewhat silent on politics, posted the following word's to a national advertising campaign this last week: The legacy we leave behind for our children, grandchildren, and this great nation is crucial. As I approach my 94th birthday, I realize this election could be my last. I beleive it is vitally important that we cast our ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the nation of Israel. I urge you to vote for those who protect the sanctity of life and support the Biblical definition of marriage between a man and a woman. Vote for Biblical values this November 6th, and pray with me that America will remain one nation under God. ~ Rev. Billy Graham   My prayer is that everyone from Anoka Wesleyan Church would vote.

Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, our General Superintendent gives the following update on Hurricane Sandy as well as ways you can get involved! See the end of this post for ways to contribute online or through your cell phone!    She writes..."Thanks to the many pastors and church families who have been praying for and asking for direction about the best way to support those affected by Hurricane Sandy along the east coast. Here is the current situation for The Wesleyan Church.

District Superintendents have reported that all damage to churches has been minimal. Some roofs have been disturbed and a number of churches have some water damage. However, there does not appear to be major church building damage at this point in time. Most, but not all, churches have reported in to their districts.

However, the greatest need is with our church families and individuals in the heavily affected regions of coastal New Jersey, New York City, and Long Island. To this end our executive team has begun to coordinate relief efforts in partnership with the Church of the Nazarene, which also has numerous churches in this region.

This morning at 8:30 an assessment team was mobilized to meet in Jersey City and begin an evaluation of the damages through onsite visits in the areas I have mentioned. District Superintendent Karl Eastlack has joined this assessment team to represent The Wesleyan Church today in this planning group. Their task will be to agree on and establish staging areas for volunteers to be hosted and to coordinate relief efforts. They will establish a list of priority needs to respond to with the financial gifts and offerings received for these specific relief efforts. Their goal is to have this priority list, staging areas, and the first responders lead team established early next week.

As you are no doubt aware, only official search and rescue efforts and utility teams are authorized to be in these affected areas at this time. But we want to be prepared to offer a clear, safe, and effective way for the many volunteers to serve who have already contacted my office. As soon as we have that information we will post it on the Wesleyan.org home page.

Pastors, please share with your church family that all gifts given by individuals or churches for Hurricane Sandy relief efforts will be used and directed by our approved leadership team on the ground in the affected area. All funds received will be used completely for these efforts.

Donations may be made in several ways.

1. At Wesleyan.org you will find the button marked “Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund.” This offers an option to give online immediately.

2. There is an option to give by text message via cell phone. Text 104Sandy to 20222 to give $10 for Hurricane Sandy relief.

3. Finally, I have heard of many churches that are planning to take up an offering during a weekend service. Please let your treasurer know that any donation by checks can be made payable to The Wesleyan Church and should be noted in the memo line for Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund. As is our usual practice all such gifts may be mailed to The Wesleyan Church, PO Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250.

The initial feedback from the assessment team today indicates a great need for bottled, safe water and for bleach to stop mold. We have arranged for two key churches to help deliver these necessities to the first approved staging site in Jersey City, New Jersey, as soon as possible. Your gifts and offerings will be used to purchase the water and bleach for this delivery and other needs as soon as they arise.

We will have regular updates on Wesleyan.org, in WesLife, and on Wesleyan Pastors Facebook page.

Thank you for your prayers and your incredible generosity. This is the Wesleyan way!

Jo Anne

You Get An Extra Hour of Sleep Tonight!

Our clocks go back on Sunday morning, November 5th, at 2 am!!!

Our "Trunk and Treat" Was A Fun Night!

What an awesome night at AWC's first ever Trunk and Treat!!! We had over 75 kids stop by the church. They enjoyed special treats from each car and then were able to enjoy cookies and something warm to drink before going on their way! We had a spectacular finale to the evening - "Flame Throwers" Adam and Abby gave an amazing demonstration of their skills! Thanks to everyone who donated goodies...and a HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who participated in this fun evening! Was fun to see "Elmer Fudd and Bugs Bunny", Minnie Mouse, a nurse, two Superwomen, a couple Ninja Hunters, some movie stars, a gangster and even a zombie! We're hoping some neighbor kids we met will come join us next Wednesday evening for Kids Klub and Youth Group!!!

What A Day!!!

What an awesome work day we had at the church!  The porch between the church and the parsonage was completed, the youth room was officially transferred to the parsonage, almost every nook and cranny was cleaned, a new "surprise" area in the church was created, AND ALL the yard work was finished!   Phew!!!  Special thanks to the talented Ken for designing, constructing and overseeing the work on the porch and to the men of the church who helped many weekends!   AND special thanks to all our helpers today!  You all ROCK!!!  George, Josh, Leverne, Paul, Tim, Beth, Brenda, Katie, Hope, Lacey, Gabi, Monique, Sierra , Shelbie, Alexus, Pastor Doug and Suzi!    Look forward to worshipping with you tomorrow!  

Happy 50th Anniversary!

Our warm congratulations are extended to Steve and Linda on their 50th anniversary! Arnold and Jim hosted a wonderful party for you today! We know it was a very special time of celebrating your love with your family and friends! How touching to have you reaffirm your wedding vows too...and to hear Steve say he wants another 50 years together! May the Lord richly bless you two!

Financial Peace Is Coming Again to AWC

Financial Peace University is coming to Anoka Wesleyan. This is your chance to get control of your finances. There will be a free preview class on Monday, October 1st from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Take this opportunity to find out what this class is all about. The class will then begin on Monday, October 8th at 7:00 PM, meeting every Monday through December 3rd. This class is NOT just for the Anoka Wesleyan congregation but is open to the general public. Invite a friend to come on the 1st of October to find out what it is about!

Financial Peace University is a life-changing program that teaches you how to make the right decisions with your money. You'll be empowered with the practical skills and confidence needed to achieve your financial goals and experience true financial peace!

Each of the lessons in Financial Peace University deals with a different topic that will change the way you think about personal finance. Dave teaches about how to save money, live on a budget, communicate about money, eliminate debt, find bargains, and experience the joy of giving.

For more information on this program, please call the church at 763-427-1068 or visit Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University website by clic by going to: http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/home

Back to Church Sunday - September 30th

We will be celebrating "Back To Church Sunday" on September 30th!!   In Hebrews 10:24-25, God's Word tells us to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, and not give up meeting together!    Our God is all about relationships....     A personal invitation is all it takes!   Who are you going to invite to come with you on the 30th?   Someone from your family, your work, your neighborhood, your friends?  After the service, we'll be having a potluck dinner!   We're looking forward to a special day!

Awesome Day At The Lake

This morning, Pastor Doug shared from a favorite portion of Scripture (Isaiah 43)...an awesome message on "Fear Not, I Am With You"...   And then off we headed to Orono Lake for our annual Sunday School picnic!  It was a picture perfect day and the food and fellowship was very special!   The kids had an awesome time riding the boat and tubing, thanks to Tim!!   But the highlight of the day was witnessing three young people being baptized...God is so good!!

Just a reminder that we will not be having Kids Klub or Youth Group this Wednesday (August 29th) because of public school orientations!  

Night to Unite Minnesota

What an awesome "Night to Unite Minnesota" event we had at the church tonight!!!   Special thanks to Pat Jenson Stables from coming!  She and her team brought two "trick" horses plus two ponies...the neighbor kids had an awesome time with the the horse and pony rides...oh, the wonder in their eyes!   It was so good to meet some new neighbors...and it was pretty neat to have both the Anoka Police and Anoka Fire Department stop at our neighborhood gathering!   Special thanks to everyone who had a part in making this such a fun night!  

August Is Awesome

It's a busy month at Anoka Wesleyan during the month of August!    On Sunday morning, August 5th, Andrea Swarthout, Global Partners missionary to Japan, will be sharing in the morning worship service at 10:45 am!   Come expecting a blessing!

We're having a block party on Tuesday evening, August 7th, as we participate in "Night to Unite Minnesota" from 6-8 pm.   There will be games, food, giveaways, and even a trick horse!   Come and meet our neighbors!

It's also Vacation Bible School the week of August 12th - our theme is "Sky"  Come discover that by trusting God, everything is possible!  There will be classes for ages 3-99 (kids must be potty trained)!  Registration and Kickoff will be on Sunday evening (Aug 12th) from 6-7:30 pm.   Regular classes will be from 6-8:30 pm Monday through Friday (Aug 13th-17th).  On Friday night, the parents of the kids are invited to attend VBS along with their kids!  

And last of all, we'll have a day at the lake following our morning service on August 26th.   The picnic lunch will start at 1 pm at Orono Park (Shelter #1) in Elk River.  Meat will be provided for grill...bring a dish or two to share!   We will also be having a baptism service while we are there!  See Pastor Doug if you are wanting to be baptized.

We look forward to seeing you at these special events, but until they arrive, would you be praying that these outreach events would be an awesome time of sharing Jesus?   Thanks so much!

P.S.  Special thanks to all those who have been helping with the porch project at the church!  The next work day is Saturday, August 11th!

General Conference Video and Another Workday

Pastor Doug and Suzi have shared with some of you about their time at the General Conference for The Wesleyan Church.  It was a historic event.  Below is a that captures worship services, special speakers, and legislative decisions.  Enjoy!
General Conference Video Highlights

Volunteers are again needed for the three season porch that is being constructed at the church.  The frame work is done!  This Saturday (June 30th) they will be working on the trusses and plywood!   Let Ken, Leverne or Pastor know if you can help!   Know how much your time is greatly appreciated!

Volunteers Needed For Saturday!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!!    Ken is in need of volunteers for Saturday, June 23^rd!   He will be working on putting the roof over the deck at the church and needs helpers!    Do you have a friend who enjoys this type of work?  Invite them to join you as well!  Let Ken, LeVerne or Pastor know ASAP if you can help!

It's Camp Time and Welcome, Baby Evan!

Today six teens and an adult counselor headed to Cedar Springs Camp for Senior High Camp!  The theme for this year is "Transparent".   Thanks so much for praying for our teen camps, kids camp, and family camp!   May it be a very special time of meeting with God.

And our warm congratulations are sent to Rob and Sarah on the birth of their second son, Evan Lee!  Isn't he such cutie!  May the Lord richly bless this precious little one!   We rejoice with you!

Walk for Life 2012

Suzi will once again be taking part in the "Walk for Life" which will be held on June 30th at Lake Koronis. The Walk supports the ministry of New Life Family Services! If you'd like to sponsor her, the signup sheet is on each of the bulletin boards in the entryways at church or you can give online at:

http://www.fundeasy.com/m/1015374/

Pray for General Conference

Thank you for your commitment to pray for God's direction and blessing on the 12th North American General Conference in Lexington, KY. Key issues highly important to the Church's future ministries will be decided, delegates and guests will be traveling from across the globe, and General Conference staff are making last minute plans to serve over 2,000 attendees! May the Lord's be glorified in all that is done!

I freely and heartily yield all things to

Thy pleasure and disposal.

—From the Covenant Prayer of John Wesley

Ladies, Don't Miss Our Brunch On May 19th

Ladies, I hope you have Saturday, May 19th, down on your calendars at 9:30 am! We are having our annual ladies' brunch for all ages! Our speaker will be storyteller, Dodie Davis! She will be sharing on "Happily Ever After...Is There Really Such A Thing?"  You will be blessed!  Don’t come alone!  Bring your mom, your daughter, your grandmother, your neighbor, your friend... Sign up today on the sheets in each entry way!  Cost per person is $5.00.

Youth Group Fundraiser

I'm doing some spring cleaning around the house today to see if I have any "treasures" that I can donate to our youth group for their garage sale next week...proceeds to go to camp registrations for the teens!!! I love our teens...and it thrills my heart to see how excited they are about going to camp! Would love to see the whole youth group and all our kids able to go! Your donations are most welcome! The garage sale is May 5th starting at 9 am!!! Any questions, see Tim or Hope!

Come Join Us Wednesday!

On Wednesday evening, April 18th, Dr. Dan Jones, medical doctor to Zambia through Global Partners, will be sharing at 7 pm. He and his wife, Dr. Joan Jones, are medical missionaries. Their vision is to minister to the broken body of Christ disguised in the sick, the dying, and those with HIV/AIDS. It is their goal to provide a compassionate medical ministry where every broken body can be nurtured and then completely healed by the Great Physician, Jesus Christ!

Our church has been able to provide financial assistance in helping to build the new chapel at Zimba Mission Hospital and in helping with the electrical upgrade project for Zimba. Come join us for a meal at 6 pm and then stay for Dr. Dan's time of sharing!

Jesus Is Alive!

Jesus is light... Shattering all darkness
He is Truth... Silencing all doubts.
He is life... Defeating death.

Jesus saith unto him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me."John 14:6

Come join us this week as we celebrate a risen Savior!

Maundy Thursday Service April 5th - 7 pm
Sunrise Service April 8th - 7:30 am
Easter Breakfast April 8th - 8:15 am
Easter Worship Celebration April 8th - 10:45 am

Special Event with Perry and Nancy Hubbard

Perry and Nancy Hubbard, Global Partner missionaries to Panama, will be with us for a time of ministry next Wednesday evening, March 28th. They will join us for supper at the Wesleyan Café at 6 pm. At 7 pm, Perry will be speaking to the adults and Nancy will be sharing with the kids and teens! We hope to see you there!

Perry and Nancy Hubbard have served in missionary ministry with Global Partners since 1986. They served in Sierra Leone from 1986-1994, in Papua New Guinea from 1995-1999, and in Guyana from 2000-2006. In 2007 they studied Spanish in Costa Rica for eight months before relocating to Panama where they currently live and minister.In 2002 Perry was appointed to serve as the director of the Wesleyan Center for World Missions in Ibero-America and the Caribbean through JIBACAM. Since then, he has traveled throughout the Caribbean and Ibero-America, teaching missions and related topics to church leaders and members. Part of his role includes writing and producing materials that teach and encourage missions involvement.The Hubbards are also involved in assisting The Wesleyan Church of Panama. Perry has developed a Bible institute curriculum for them, which uses a variety of learning methods, including weekly and i intensive classes, as well as the online Wesleyan material at www.ibwww.org. He is also involved in the local men’s ministry. Nancy gives leadership to the hospitality ministry of the church, teaches in the children’s ministry, and serves as the director of the Kindness Evangelism team.Perry and Nancy have three grown children: John, Jeff, and Jessica.

Talent Show - Sunday Evening - 6 pm

"The Little Lamb" is our theme for this fun-filled evening for the whole family! Whether your talent is in reading, singing, playing an instrument, a craft, or whatever, plan on being a blessing (and bringing a smile) to the "family" on the evening of March 18th!

Following the show, please join us in the Fellowship Hall where the Wesleyan Women will be hosting a time of refreshments plus will be having a White Elephant auction for you to participate in! Proceeds will go towards the support of our district missionaries!

See you there!

March 11th Is A Special Sunday~

Don't forget that daylight savings time is this weekend. I don't want you to miss out on an awesome time on Sunday morning at church! The Blake family (missionaries to Europe/Czech Republic through Global Partners) will be with us! And following our time of worship, be sure to stay for the potluck dinner! See you Sunday!

The Lenten Season Begins

Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday…the beginning of Lent. What is Lent? Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and spiritual discipline. The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - His
sufferings and His sacrifice and His life, death and resurrection. The Lenten season begins with Ash Wednesday as the first day and it is the 40 days prior to Easter (Sundays are in the
count!)

I grew up in a church where we had community Lenten services on Wednesday evenings. Even though I was a child, I still vividly remember those days which came not too long after Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ into this world was the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior. But the sending of His Son was only the beginning of the Father’s eternal work of redemption…Jesus was on a mission…it would be one where He would be the conqueror!!

I hope during this Lenten season you will ponder ways that you can deepen your relationship with Jesus.…I promise you that it will be time well spent with Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior of all!

A Love Letter From Jesus To You

My little child, I love you. (John 15:9)
I have called you by your name, you are mine. (Isaiah 43:1)
Before I formed you, I knew you. And before you were born, I consecrated you. (Jeremiah 1:5).
You did not choose me, I chose you. (John15:16).
Beloved, I wish above all things that you prosper and be in good health, even as your soul prospers. (3rd John 2).
Because you are precious to me, and honored, I love you. (Isaiah 43:4).
I have loved you with an everlasting love and I will continue my Constant love. (Jeremiah 31:3).
How can I abandon you? My love for you is too strong. (Hosea 11:8).
I love you so much that I hung on the cross at Calvary. I died for you, and if you believe in Me you will have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore? Yet, even should she forget, I will never forget you. I cannot forget you. See, I have graven you in the palm of my hands. (Isaiah 49:15-16).
For I, the Lord your God, am holding you by the right hand. (Isaiah 41:13).
I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS UNTIL THE END OF THE WORLD (Matthew 28: 20).
Do not let your heart be troubled, trust in me. (John 14:1).
I will help you. (Isaiah 41: 14).
When you pass through the deep waters, I will be with you. Your troubles will not overwhelm you. The hard trials that will come will not hurt you. (Isaiah 43:2).
When you walk through the valley of the shadows of death, do not be afraid because I am with you. My rod and my staff will comfort you. I will lead you in the path of righteousness. (Psalms 23).
I will give you peace in the midst of a storm, not as the world giveth. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)
Peace I give which will pass all understanding and shall keep your heart and mind. (Philippians 4:7).
When you lie down do not be afraid, your sleep shall be sweet (Proverbs 3: 24).
My love for you will keep your dwelling safe (Psalm 4:8).
Beloved my eyes are upon you and I will give you hope, for I am merciful (Psalm 33:18)
You will have access to my grace and rejoice in hope while sharing in the glory of my Father. (Romans 5:2).
I will give you joy and peace. The mountains and hills will sing, and the trees will clap their hands before you. (Isaiah 55:12)
You may have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice and no one will take your joy from you. (John 16:22).
Do not worry (Luke 12:9).
Even the hairs of your head have all been counted, so there is no need to be afraid of anything. (Matthew 10:30).
The mountains may depart and the hills will be shaken but my steadfast love for you will never end. (John 54:10).
Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28).
Come, my love (Solomon 2:10).
Come, I will lead you into solitude and there I will speak tenderly to your heart.
I will be true and faithful. I will show you constant love and make you mine forever. I will keep my promise, and you will really know me then as never before. (Hosea 1:14, 19-20).
I AM WHO I AM (Exodus 3:14).
I am the Lord your God. (Hosea 13:4).
Your Faithful Friend,

Jesus Christ, your Savior

I Know Who Holds 2012

We have crossed the threshhold of a new year -- a new beginning. As I look back over 2011, it was a different year, and at times, a difficult year...BUT MY GOD was with me every step of the way! 2012 is now here. I love a new year for it represents a fresh start, a brand new set of days overflowing with new dreams and unmarked possibilities, yet I also know that this year is full of unknowns. BUT, the good news is that what lies ahead is no surprise to God! I recently read in a devotional..."He has already been where we are going! That reason alone empowers us to face every tomorrow with hope, knowing whatever touches us passes through His hands, with His permission. It is not God's plan for us to dwell in fear or for fear to rule our lives. He has already set in motion the defeat and fall of every giant we will ever face. Our responsibility is to step through our fear, facing every giant in God's power and with His promises. The Holy Spirit will guide the path of His truth in its destined mark, taking down the giants lurking in each tomorrow!" I think that is something to post on your refrigerator as a reminder for 2012!!!


In Kids Klub, we have been 'driving home the truth' that we can trust God no matter what! I don't know what my year will hold, but I know WHO holds tomorrow. My God is the same yesterday, today and forever..so what is there to fear about the unknown of 2012?


We're looking forward to some awesome opportunities where we can reach out in the name of Jesus in our community for 2012! God bless you this New Year...may the Giver of every good and perfect gift bless you with heaven's blessings!

"Ever good and perfect gift is from above." James 1:17 NIV