Adult Ministries

2014 - 2015

BAPTISM CLASSES First Monday Night of Each Month at 7:30pm Baptism classes prepare parents, children & adults for baptism. The purpose of the baptism class is to explore the meaning of bap-tism, to walk through the baptism service and to help equip par-ents to pass on the faith to their child. Parents are required to at-tend a baptism class prior to their child's baptism into the Christian Faith at Word of Peace. If you have already attended a baptism class at Word of Peace for another child, you do not need to attend again. Contact the church office at 763-496-2400 to register.

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION & BAPTISM CLASSES

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION September 27 or November 18, 2014 February 19 or April 18, 2015 Word of Peace offers New Member Orientation sessions 3-4 times each year. These sessions are de-signed to quickly help you feel a part of this com-munity. Each session is three hours in length, during which time you will: • Meet the pastors • Hear what we believe and how we do

ministry • Share in a fellowship meal • Meet some of the church staff • Learn how to identify and use your gifts For more information or to register, visit wordofpeace.org/membership or contact Susen Kay in the church office at 763-496-2400.

2014-15 Sessions

Saturday, September 27, 2014 9:00am - 12:30pm

(Includes Breakfast) Reception of New Members is October 12 & 13 Register and request childcare by September 23

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

5:30pm - 9:00pm

(Includes Dinner) Reception of New Members is November 30 & December 1

Register and request childcare by November 13

Thursday, February 19, 2015 5:30pm - 9:00pm

(Includes Dinner) Reception of New Members is March 1 & 2

Register and request childcare by February 16

Saturday, April 18, 2015 9:00am - 12:30pm

(Includes Breakfast) Reception of New Members is April 26 & 27

Register and request childcare by April 13

Whether you're walking through

the doors for the first time or

you've been coming for years,

Word of Peace is a place where

you can feel welcome, comforta-

ble and encouraged to explore

your relationship with God.

HABITS OF HAPPINESS: STUDY OF PHILIPPIANS September 21 - October 12

Philippians uses the word “joy” or “rejoice” every few paragraphs, but the joy it describes doesn’t vanish when faced with challenges. Paul wrote this letter to the community of faith in Philippi from prison. He encourages his readers that even in the midst of challenges, we are not alone. Whether we are in joy or sorrow, pleasure or pain, we in Christian community do not rejoice in private or suffer alone. It is in Christian community that we are reminded of God’s ongoing work and promise, through Christ’s death and resurrection, that provides us with the ability to rejoice despite our circum-stances.

SUNDAY MORNING STUDIES 9:45 AM in Room 120

ABUNDANT JOY, OVERFLOWING GENEROSITY October 26 - November 16

A portion of Paul’s second letter to the Christian com-munity in Corinth serves as the foundation for four bib-lical studies. Each is intended to amplify the overall theme of “Abundant Joy, Overflowing Generosity.” Week One: Granted by the Grace of God Week Two: Free to Give Week Three: Given First to the Lord Week Four: Excellence in Giving

YOU SHALL HAVE A SONG: AN ADVENT STUDY November 23 - December 14

God promises, “You shall have a song” (Isaiah 30:29) even when things look the most bleak and hopeless. This study explores four songs from the Bible: God’s New Song in Psalm 96, Song of Light in Isaiah 42:1-9, Mary’s Song (Luke 1:46-55) and the Servant Song Philippians 2:5-11. Let the lyrics of these and other songs of faith bubble up in our lives in praise of God’s amazing work of creating, renewing and saving.

Who is The Marriage Course for? The Marriage Course is perfect for any married couple, including those who are: • Looking to enhance their marriage • In the first five years of marriage • Struggling with issues • At a challenging stage (i.e. new baby, career change, empty nest) What Should You Expect? During seven evenings spent together, couples talk about important issues such as: • Recognizing each other's needs • Relating to parents and in-laws • Learning how to communicate • Healing past hurt • How to make each other feel loved • Resolving conflict • Making time for and having fun with each other • Good sex Each evening begins with a candlelit meal. Then a video presentation, fol-lowed by the chance to talk about the topic together as a couple. The setting is welcoming, relaxed, and un-threatening. Privacy as a couple is always respected. While based on Christian principals, the course is help-ful for any couple with or without a Christian faith or background. Please register by September 28.

HABITS OF HAPPINESS: The Gift of Imperfection Letting Go of Who You Think You’re

Supposed to be and Embrace Who You Are

October 5 - November 23

Cost: $15 for materials

Wholehearted living is about engaging in our lives from a place of worthiness. It means cultivating courage, compassion, and connection to wake up in the morning and think, “no matter what gets done and how much is left undone, I am enough – I am a Child of God.” Wholehearted living directly impacts our daily lives with our families, friends, work, and our own happiness. Our study is guided by scripture, video clips and Brené Brown’s book, The Gift of Imperfec-tion. We will spend time together around practical ways to live lives as imperfect but beloved Children of God. We will engage in these practices together—

• Letting Go of What People Think • Letting Go of Perfectionism • Cultivating Gratitude and Joy • Cultivating Trusting Faith • Letting Go of Comparison • Cultivating Play and Rest – Letting Go

of Exhaustion as a Status Symbol • Cultivating Meaningful Work • Letting Go of Self-Doubt and

“Supposed To”

Please register by September 28.

Marriage Course The How to Build a Healthy Marriage that Lasts a Lifetime...

October 5 - November 13 Cost: $5 per couple for materials

About Sunday Evening Studies The evening begins with an informal dinner at 6:00 pm and the courses take place around 6:30 and run to around 8-8:30 pm. Childcare is available upon request. Registration forms are available at wordofpeace.org and at the Information Desk.

SUNDAY EVENING STUDIES: Fall Sessions

HOW TO GET THROUGH WHAT YOU’RE GOING THROUGH Experiencing Grief and Loss

January 18 - March 8

Meal served at 6:00pm (free-will offering) Study begins at 6:30pm and ends around 8:30pm. Cost: $15 for materials

We have lost loved ones. We have lost pets. Some of us have suffered from a trauma that has torn our definition of life from us. There are those who have been given a diagnosis of a physical or mental illness that has taken away our dreams and identity. Some of us have lost jobs, homes or other things of value. Some losses are hard to define. But there is one truth we can be sure of, we are not alone. This course is a 10-week journey through grief and loss. Through the use of artwork, poetry and other mediums we will put words and images to our experiences. We will look at the Psalms to reconnect us to God and God’s people who grieve with us. Grief is a journey from sorrow to joy. When we walk through it together we can support one another. Topics Include:

• Life Together

• Trauma of Loss

• Experiencing the Loss

• Recognizing the Reality of Loss

• Experiencing the Emotion of Loss

• Expressing the Emotion of Loss

• Reinvesting in Life

• Making New Meaning

• Stepping Into Life Anew Please register by January 11.

Alpha is a 10-week practical exploration of the Christian faith and gives everyone the opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. Alpha meets once a week for 10 weeks. Sessions begin with an informal dinner, followed by video presentation and time to dis-cuss what's been taught. Everyone is welcome at Alpha. Alpha is for people from all backgrounds and perspectives. It’s perfect for those looking for “more,” even if you’re not sure what that “more” is. If you’re wondering if Alpha is right for you, contact Pastor Rick at (763) 496-2400 or pastorrick@woplc.org. Please register by January 11.

THE ALPHA COURSE January 18 - March 22, 2015

Cost: $5 per person for materials

• Who is Jesus?

• Why Did Jesus Die?

• How Can I Be Sure of My Faith?

• Why & How Should I Read the Bible?

• Why and How Do I Pray?

• How Does God Guide Us?

• Who Is the Holy Spirit?

• How Can I Be Filled with the Spirit?

• How Can I Resist Evil?

We’ll explore...

SUNDAY EVENING STUDIES: Winter Sessions

Men’s Breakfast and Bible Study 2nd Saturday of Each Month - 7:30 AM Leader: Lou Oberdeck 763-420-3353

Open to all men, this Bible study offers a free continental breakfast followed by meaningful explorations and discussion.

Mondays With Moms Mondays at 9:30 AM Leader: Missy Henderson 763-428-5225 missy.henderson@comcast.net

A study and fellowship group for mothers with children of all ages. We discuss sever-al books throughout the year. Join us at any time!

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Every Other Wednesday - 9:15 AM Leader: Jennifer Frion Contact: Children, Youth & Family Office 763-496-2400

Come experience community, personal growth, practical help and spiritual hope. You'll be welcomed, accepted and inspired as we all strive to reach our full potential while celebrating the ups & downs of motherhood. All area moms are welcome to attend.

Praying In Color Wednesdays at 5:30 PM and 6:45 PM October 1, November 5, December 17, January 28, April 22 Leader: Jan Stolba janstolba@yahoo.com

When you want to pray, are you easily dis-tracted or impatient? Do you struggle to find the right words? Do you want a new way to pray? Praying in Color is a way to pray with your eyes, your ears and your hands. It is like doodling – you don’t need

to be an artist. Open up a new prayer path to God – open your heart to praying in color. This is a wonderful prayer method for all ages. Come when you are able.

Sunday Night Men’s Group Sundays at 8:00 PM Leader: Eric Henderson 763-428-5225 ehender79@comcast.net

Whether looking to God for help in fa-thering, being a supportive spouse, or dealing with "guy stuff," we all need a sup-port system where we can grow deeper in our relationship with the Lord. We meet on a weekly basis in order to study God's Word or a biblically-based book in order to support each other as we strive to max-imize who God made us to be. Once a month we go out in service to our church and community. All men are welcome.

Tuesday Evening Circle 2nd Tuesday/Month - 7:30 PM Leader: Sara Hnath 763-428-8568 hnagolf@hotmail.com

Gather in local homes for an evening of Bible study, fellowship and desserts.

Women’s Friendship Circle Tuesdays at 9:00 AM Leader: Sandra Nelson 763-497-3588

A group of women who gather each week to share concerns for others and ourselves, pray, delve into the Bible study found in Gather magazine. They celebrate “highs” and extend compassion for the “lows,” and sometimes enjoy treats and coffee! Women are welcome to attend as their schedule allows.

Women of Faith Every Other Monday at 7:00 PM

Beginning September 15, 2014 Leader: Linda Foley 763-428-5110 marklinda@peoplepc.com

Gather with other women of faith for a study of the book, “Old Testament Char-acters” by Peter Scazzero. Abraham gives us an unforgettable portrait of faith. Dan-iel is an example of holiness. And through her willingness to risk her own life, Esther shows us what commitment means. This study explores the lives of these and other Bible characters. Their example helps us live in the present by learning from people of the past.

Via de Cristo Weekend Retreats Contact: Eric & Missy Henderson 763-428-5225 missy.henderson@comcast.net

A powerful weekend retreat designed to strengthen and renew the faith of Chris-tian people. Come enjoy learning about God's grace and the unconditional love Christ has for all of us.

SMALL GROUP STUDIES & FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

STUDY & FELLOWSHIP GROUPS

Visit us Online at

wordofpeace.org/learn

Visit Word of Peace

Online:

wordofpeace.org

BeFrienders Ministry 3rd Tuesday of Each Month - 7:00 PM Leader: Jean Baumgartner jean.bumgardner@ slumberland.com

We all have a "story" and there are times when we all need someone who will listen to us as we sort out our life. The Word of Peace BeFrienders Minis-try is here for you. Trained people are available to be your friend, listen to "your story" and to give you a support-ive ear as you find solutions.

Grief Support Group 2nd Tuesday of Each Month - 6:30-8:00 PM Leaders: Shirley Corliss 763-428-4102 Cheryl Karst 763-441-3019

The group gives a confidential oppor-tunity to talk about the origins of grief, whether recent or sometime in the past. As we share with others, we gain com-fort and understanding. All are wel-come. Come when you are able.

Alcoholics Anonymous Thursdays at 7:00 pm Contact: 612-616-6430 for more info.

Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellow-ship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. The primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcohol-ics to achieve sobriety. There is an AA meeting at Word of Peace on Thursday evenings at 7:00 pm in room 161.

Emotions Anonymous Wednesdays at 1:00 PM Leader: Betsy Olson Contact: Pastor Krista 763-496-2400 pastorkrista@woplc.org Emotions Anonymous is a twelve-step organization, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. Our fellowship is com-posed of people who come together in

weekly meetings for the purpose of working toward recovery from emo-tional difficulties. EA members are from many walks of life and are of di-verse ages, economic status, social and educational backgrounds. The only re-quirement for membership is a desire to become well emotionally.

Yoga Sundays at 5:30 PM Beginners Sundays at 6:30 PM Yoga I Leader: Marilee Maxwell 763-428-7815 maxwellmc@embarqmail.com

Come enjoy a yoga class free of charge! Each exercise is adaptable for varying skill levels. Everyone is welcome.

Don’t Stress Out! Strategies for Teen Girls Thursdays, September 25 - November 20, 7:00-8:00 PM Leaders: Cindy Lovelette and Michelle Reimer Contacts: Michelle Reimer michelle.reimer@elkriver.k12.mn.us Pastor Krista Strum pastorkrista@woplc.org Cost: $80

Being a teenager can be very stressful with so many decisions to make each day. Come join us on a journey where we will explore the topics of stress and anxiety. We’ll learn how to modify our thinking and behavior so we can gain more confi-dence in our lives and see how God is with us every step of the way. Topics will include assertiveness skills, getting through panic attacks, using anger in a positive way, and how to manage worrying.

Grief Group for Teenagers (Grades 9-12) Thursdays, February 26 - April 23, 7:00-8:00 PM Leader: Michelle Reimer Contacts: Michelle Reimer michelle.reimer@elkriver.k12.mn.us Pastor Krista Strum pastorkrista@woplc.org Cost: $80

One of the hardest things we have to face in life is the death of a family member or friend. In this group you will learn how to cope with the death of a loved one by sharing your stories, learning from others and navigating through the grief process.

HEALTH & WELLNESS GROUPS & CLASSES

Cindy Lovelette has been leading anxiety groups in the Elk River School Dis-trict for the past 2 years. Michelle Reimer is a guid-ance counselor at Elk River High School and member of Word of Peace. She has been lead-ing grief groups for teen-agers for over 15 years.

Voices of Peace Adult Vocal Choir Rehearsals: Wednesdays from 7:30-8:30 PM

Voices of Peace is open to all singers from high school through adult. The choir sings for worship on the 3rd Sunday of each month. We sing a varied repertoire, from cho-ral classics to contemporary favorites. There is no audition required, and everyone is welcome to join any time. During the seasons of Christmas and Easter, Voices of Peace become the Festival Chorus, and many singers join specifically for those times.

Angel Wings Adult Bell Choir Rehearsals: Wednesdays from 6:00-7:30 PM

Angel Wings gets its name from the classic movie "It's a Wonderful Life." Remember when Clarence tells George that everytime a bell rings an angel gets his wings? This is a Level 3 bell choir that performs during worship once a month.

Harmony Men's Chorus Rehearsals: Thursdays from 7:00-8:00 PM

Harmony sings gospel and barbershop music for worship once a month. There is no au-dition to join and all men may join at any time during the year.

Deo Glorias Women's Contemporary Group Rehearsals: Mondays from at 7:00-8:00 PM

Deo Glorias [To God be the Glory] sings during worship on the fourth Sunday of the month. There is no audition required and all women are welcome to join at any time of the year.

MUSIC GROUPS

Develop your spiritual friendships at Word of Peace by participating in any of these adult music groups. For more information, contact Michael Sahlen at 763-496-2412 or msahlen@woplc.org.

SERVICE GROUPS

Fix-It Fellowship 1st Wednesday of Each Month 9:00 AM Leader: Lou Witt 763-843-4195

Men and women of the church meet for coffee, fel-lowship and a devotion, then they replace light bulbs, make small repairs, paint, hang shelves and do other light pro-jects around the building.

Sacred Stuffers Dates and Times Vary Leader: Susen Kay 763-496-2420 skay@woplc.org Men and women get together and help the church office staff by putting bulletins and newsletters together, stuffing envelopes, preparing mailings, etc. They often stay when the work is finished and enjoy coffee and fellowship with one another.

SMALL GROUP STUDIES & FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Worship and Visual Arts Enriching the worship experience with art, music, and drama, as well as caring for the appearance and artistic expression of the church.

Life and Growth Tending to the life and well being of the congregation.

Social Ministry Leading the congregation in responding to the needs of the local community.

Global Ministry

Leading the congregation in responding to the global mission concerns of the world.

C.A.R.E. The Welcoming and Inviting team - Reaching out to members of the church and surrounding community.

Stewardship Providing opportunities for the congrega-tion to give back to God from the many blessing God has given to each of us.

Education Providing leadership and supervision for education and other faith formation ac-tivities for children and their families of the church.

Youth Middle school and senior high youth pro-grams and faith formation of middle school and senior high youth and fami-lies.

Property The maintenance of the church building and grounds.

Endowment Fund Enhancing the mission of the congrega-tion apart from the general operations of the church.

MINISTRY TEAMS

Share your gifts and talents, while you get to know others and take part in the leadership of the ministry of Word of Peace. For more information, contact Tracy Rowe, Volunteer Coordinator, at 763-496-2421or trowe@woplc.org

MINISTRY TEAMS

C H A N G E S E R V I C E R E Q U E S T E D

Adult Ministries

LOOK INSIDE!

You will find many opportunities to:

• Grow in Christian Faith

• Become Closer to God

• Develop Supportive Friendships with Other Christians

Non-Profit Org.

U.S. Postage

PAID

Rogers, MN

Permit No. 9