New Life Christian Church

PASTOR’S REPORT

Dear Saint (s),

I trust you are enjoying this awesome summer we are having. For me, its been a summer of extreme busyness with lots going on – my brother and his diagnosis, the wedding, the building project…….family…….and on and on it goes. However, the Lord is really causing me to focus on the harvest. In fact, the board and I are going to begin working on a 100 year vision for our church. You can pray for clarity and discernment. I believe this will give us great clarity of vision, direction and instruction in where and how to get the vision of Christ for our area. Thanks for your prayers.

We have a great month coming up in regards to the building project. We are now ever so close…..so keep those offerings coming – we are almost there! With that in mind, I want to ask you to keep the following dates in mind. We will have a men’s workday (and I really need every man there that can possibly come) on Saturday, August 16th – it will start at 8 am until 1 pm We will also have an all church (men and women) work night on Thursday August 28th – it will start at 5 pm and we will end at 9 pm. Thanks in advance for coming. Also, if any men want to work throughout the week and have a few hours – just let us know.

We will also have a church picnic/softball game on Wednesday, August 27th @ 6:30 pm at the Clayton Pavilion and Baseball Field (same field that we went to last year). If you need directions, please call the church office and we will help you out. You don’t need to bring anything except your mitts, if you want to play – if not, still come! The food and drinks will be provided!

The Lord is doing so many great works in our midst. People are getting saved. People are getting baptized. People are getting loved and touched. Rejoice with me – this is really a great time in the presence of the Lord. Also, just by way of testimony I had the privilege of praying with Mayor Jeff Graham from Watertown this week with a group of 5-6 other pastors. God is truly opening up Jefferson County. It’s exciting…..but we must have Unity. I can’t emphasize it enough. It’s the place of life and blessing and the place where Jesus said they (the world) would understand that He is real and has been sent – when we walk and talk as one.

Love you all,
Pastor Kirk

TESTED AND TRIED submitted by David Hayner

Often times in life we are not sure if God is testing us or if this is an attack from the enemy.  Despite which one is occurring we seem to be quick to say that satan is attacking when it’s really God testing us.  The thing about God’s test is that most of the time we have already studied for it; before it springs upon us.  We have already passed small quizzes along the way and now comes the test.  You see God knows you better than you know yourself.  He knows you can’t handle the test on your own so he has filled you with his Holy Spirit this day to guide you to either through it or around it; after the teaching is complete.  There’s a Christian song that says, you have to go through the valley to stand upon the mountain.  God’s word says; the smelter pot is for the silver and the furnace is for the gold; but it is the Lord that tests the heart of man.  Remember God doesn’t test us for his good or growth, but for ours.  Also when he tests us it’s not because he doesn’t know the answer it’s because he’s wanting to see if we will give his answer, that is already within.  Lastly because we live in a fallen world of sin and death; although we may pass the test doesn’t always mean victory in our temporal flesh; but certainly victory in our eternal soul. For our light affliction is but for a moment but it worketh for us a far more exceeding eternal weight of glory.  Therefore get ready; for today you will be tried and tested, but be of good courage for the teacher is not a task master over us, but a Father to us.  S.A.T. test.  Studied And Trained by God. 

33LIVE REPORT submitted by Christopher Hopper

Jennifer, Luik, and I are back home safe-and-sound from our recent trip to Europe. I can’t thank everyone enough for all your prayers and support while we were away. I was deeply encouraged by so many of your emails and phone calls. As most of you know, our travels abroad are far from “easy” and usually need a lot of recovery both spiritually and and physically. This trip was no exception as Jennifer and I were ministering publicly 6-7 hours a day for 10 days straight, on top of a lot of counseling and travel. 

Your support was especially appreciated with the news of Jennifer’s pregnancy and then the following news of the miscarriage. We are doing well, but Jennifer certainly covets your continued prayers during this brief period of mourning which doesn’t seem to be over quite yet. 

This trip was full of highs and a few lows, moments which reminded me that we are at war with the enemy. He hates what we’re doing. But we keep going just the same. In fact, the presence of the attack legitimizes the efficiency and effectiveness of our assault on the kingdom of darkness. We saw adults and youth from Spain, Scotland, Mexico, France, Belgium and Switzerland touched by the presence of God, openly confessing their sins, and many receiving deliverance. There were profound times of teaching and lengthy encounters with the presence of the Lord. We also had many opportunities to minister to the lost and love on those who are spiritually dead, allowing the light and love of Jesus to shine through us in a nation that desperately needs Jesus.

Needless to say I’m returning to our home base with many encouraging thoughts about what is to come. Having just heard about last week’s amazing youth meeting at the church, I am expectant! As we prepare to move into Watertown as a church, the face of our youth ministry will be changing…and expanding. One of the primary functions of the Church that Paul lays out for us in the book of Ephesians is that we grow. I am reminded of what my wife always says: “Souls are waiting on the other side of your obedience.” 

With the onset of a new year for both 33 Live and for the training wing, DIBOR, I have been seeking the Lord for wisdom on how to move forward with discipleship, new strategies to reach the lost youth of Jefferson County, and renewed vision for operating in excellence. August will be a month of planning, meeting with leaders, and preparing for the harvest we are going to see over the next twelve months. Please lift up everyone involved with our youth ministry, that we may hear clearly from the Holy Spirit. 

Practically, I will be working in Thompson Hall over the next month doing painting and dorm renovations for the next DIBOR class. If you’d like to be notified by email or phone when I’m working so you can help, or if you’d like to know what jobs need to be done, even if I’m not there, please contact the office or email me directly (ceek@mac.com). I’d love the help!

KIDS CHURCH submitted by Anna Woodkirk

Hey kids! This past month has been pretty exciting. I was so proud of all of you for working so hard to raise money for Naomi Glenister during VBS. Naomi is a local girl who has cancer. Some of you were very creative in ways to raise money. I was very proud of Jaden Meeks, he showed very good business skills while working to raise money for Naomi. Trace Bovier challenged everyone that he met to help! What a great example they were to all of us!

I hope everyone of you are enjoying your summer. I recently moved to Sackets Harbor and I have been enjoying walks around town and taking lots of pictures of sunsets and sailboats. My family and I spent an evening with the Fairchild family at Westcott Beach. We had a lot of fun playing in the water! What are you doing this summer? I would love for you to write to me and share what exciting adventures that you have experienced this summer. My e-mail address is anniebanana86@yahoo.com or you can mail it to me at PO Box 213, Depauville, NY 13632.

This coming month we will still be working on the ABC’s of the Bible.
I hope that I see you on Sunday at KIDS Church.

I love you all! —Miss Anna

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD submitted by Karleen Bognaski

August is “Back To School” month for Operation Christmas Child.  As you check out the sales flyers for your children or grandchildren, remember to get a little extra to give to our Christmas Children.  This month, we are asking for donations of school supplies such as crayons, pencils, scissors, pencil sharpeners, rulers, glue
sticks, and small pads of paper.  These children have very little, including items needed for schooling, so even if you donate one small item, this is much more than many children can afford.  Without school supplies, many children can not attend school.  It would truly be a blessing to those children to receive these items that we take for granted, and so easily obtained for most of us.  So, remember to grab an extra item and two when doing your school shopping and drop it in the box at the back of the church or give to Karleen Bognaski or Patty Jennings.  Thank you for your generosity!  

VISITATION PASTOR submitted by Pastor Tom

Give Glory to God, what a wonderful Lord we serve! As most of you know, I have come aboard at NLCC to serve as Visitation Pastor. I fully intend to serve this church body with humbleness and love. To minister to the sick and shut-ins, and to visit the hospitals. If you would like to meet with me or know of someone that would like a visit, please call the church office. The office number is 686-6090.

In Luke 22:27, Jesus said, “But I am among you as one who serves.”
I want to be just like my Lord. Jesus in everyway. I must crucify my flesh everyday. If Paul had to, then so do I. I need to spend time in prayer and reading the Word everyday. In this I m anointed to serve my brothers and sisters. I thank you all for that opportunity. Once again if I can be of any help to you, please call. When you have a loved one in poor health or need to be encouraged, I am here for you.

I want to thank all of you for participating and signing the attendance book on Sunday mornings. It helps me to keep in touch and minister to those in need. One other thing, JoAnne and I are so glad to be home. God bless you all!

ANNUAL FOOD PANTRY REPORT submitted by Ernie Ross

Another year has ended (June 30) for the food pantry. I wanted to take a few moments and update you with the numbers for this last fiscal year. The Depauville Food Pantry has served 1,317 households, with a total of 5,488 individuals and our meal count was 115,248. In September 2002 the pantry partnered with the Food Bank of Central New York, and since then we have served 5,021famiilies for a total meal count of 364,694. Incredible!

Most of you know we have opened a Redemption Center in the warehouse, so with 2 businesses it can be pretty busy at times – we are in the need of volunteers for the pantry.
We have openings for all day Monday, Tuesday morning, Wednesday all day, and Friday morning. Anyone wishing to help during these hours please call me!

With the increase of fuel and gas prices, the pantry has seen a large increase of numbers of families (230) from last year. This is making it necessary for new ideas and sponsors to keep the pantry shelves stocked. I estimate that to provide a week’s worth of groceries to a family of five the price is approximately $25 - $30. This year we are looking for organizations or businesses to sponsor families. These one time donations are greatly appreciated. Also, any businesses that work in the food industry that would like to donate your overstocked items, please contact me. All donated items qualify for tax exemption.

The Blessing Room (located in the upstairs of the warehouse) has also had a great year. Just when I wonder if it is worth keeping open, a needy family will come in. Often someone will mention an item they need and within a few days the item will be donated. God knows our needs! With these kinds of things happening throughout the year, I have been convinced to keep the Blessing Room in operation. If you have any household items or clothing (clean and in good condition), please keep the Blessing Room in mind.

I have scheduled an Open House for the Pantry on August 16, 10 am – 12 pm. This will be the perfect opportunity to see the outreach and to ask any questions that you might have. It may even peak your interest in volunteering!

I am certain that as the pantry faithfully continues to give to the needs of our community that God will continue to bless us. I am thankful for all of you that have given so freely and kept us in your prayers this past year. Without your involvement and support the pantry would not be able to continue serving our local area. Thank you.

DIBOR REPORT submitted by Robin Ringer

The summer has been brimming with activity for DIBOR. Here’s an update:
The Hoppers ministered in France for 2 weeks. They joined Michael there who is serving the ministry, EDEN for 2 months.
Melinda has been called to serve a Buffalo ministry called “Breakout”, under Rev. Tommy Reid’s church, Full Gospel Tabernacle. This ministry does intense ministry street work in Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse.
Brittany has spent the last week serving the youth leaders at The Steps, an inner city ministry in Buffalo under Pure for God Ministries.
Sian is traveling the US and visiting friends. He has been given the opportunity to teach bible studies that were taught him in DIBOR and is teaching piano lessons and leading worship.
Marty has returned to Germany for the summer. We all enjoyed a great visit with his dad for 3 weeks. Marty will be serving the Lord by working at a hospital where his parents are on staff.
Joe, Ephraim and Nate are all working.
Chrystelle, our faithful staff member, has been blessed with 2 jobs and has been mentoring a couple of girls over the summer

The Ringers have been resting, housing lots of house guests and enjoyed all their kids and 5 grandchildren!! We are always overseeing youth work through TYM, (Training Youth Ministers) in the Buffalo area and are preparing not only for the Fall start up of DIBOR but the planning of 2 youth retreats that will be offered this year that will train teens in the principles of TYM/DIBOR. Brad and Christopher will be joining with Jay Trainer, a youth pastor from a Rochester Nazarene church in these retreats.

Early September we will welcome Gabi, our new staff member. We have known her for several years. She served the Southwest Youth Ministries, (SWYM) in the UK for 10 years where Brad is on their faculty. Gabi is coming under Pure For God Ministries and will be serving DIBOR by taking on the majority of the administration. This will release the Ringers to focus more completely on the Spiritual Training of DIBOR and TYM.
**For those of you who may be confused with seeing TYM. TYM is the training program that DIBOR uses for its program. TYM provides the Spiritual facet to the DIBOR program. I hope that helps!

This September we will greet 6 new residential disciples!!
Sandi, Kelly, Leah, Esther, Cinno and Thawng

We need some folks help with dorm renovations. If you can help, please call Christopher 686-1888.

All conferences are open to anyone over the age of 18. If you are interested, please contact Christopher again the number is 686-1888.

PRISON REPORT submitted by Nancy Gardner

Step into a missions field ripe for harvest!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP CHANGE LIVES!
Your life will be changed and blessed also.
Volunteer or Visitor - You choose!
Volunteers and visitors are two different categories. A visitor can asked to be put on an inmates visit list and have one on one visits Saturday, Sunday or a holiday. A volunteer, helps out with the teaching of a program (usually 1 night a week 7 - 9 pm) or in the hospitality center. An application for a volunteers usually takes 4 - 6 weeks to be approved. Volunteers will be trained for prison teaching.
Opportunities with classes offered:
Marriage and Parenting - A Bible based 10-week program, once a week 7 - 9pm. Tues. at Cape Vincent or Thurs. at Watertown. Materials from: the Bible, Christian Psychologist Dr. James Dobson, Dad’s Clinic (written by the Assemblies of God Ministries) and a movie - “A Vow to Cherish”. Usually 8 - 20 participants.
Koinonia - Monday 7 - 9 pm at Cape Vincent. Great Bible study - book by book and verse by verse. They are studying the book of Hebrews at present. 12 - 20 participants.
Fatherhood: A Parenting Class For Men. Developed originally for military deployed parents to stay in touch with the growing and training of their children while they were away from home. This program has been adapted for incarcerated fathers. Studies show that a close relationship with their families cuts down on recidivism (returning to prison). Help the children. 7 - 9 Thursday at Watertown.
If we don’t bring in the Gospel, who will?
Join us in acting out Matthew 25:35- 40 We go into Cape Vincent and Watertown Correctional Facilities to share the love and compassion of Jesus. God is moving mightily in the prisons. Join us in prayer or in person. Contact Dave or Nancy Gardner at 686-0086 or d.ngardner@juno.com
P.S. The Prison Ministry are looking for donations of family videos suitable for children while they are visiting their parents. Many people have upgraded to DVD’s and have videos that you are not using, please consider giving them to the Prison Ministry. Nancy Gardner will be glad to receive your donations! Thank you.

MISSION REPORT

Cyprus

Capital: Nicosia
Size: 5,896 sq. km.
Population: 594,200
Religions: Muslim 22% Orthodox 75% Catholic 1.2% Protestant 1.8%

CHALLENGES FOR PRAYER

Pray for the gospel in its purity to be accepted by the many nominal Christians.

Pray for the witness of Greek and non-Greek believers.

Pray for the effective use and distribution of literature and also for the nationwide tract distribution.

Cyprus is the major base for Christian organizations ministering in the surrounding Middle East states. Please pray for stability of the country!

Pray for the crumbling of political, cultural, historical and spiritual barriers to witness and acceptance of the gospel.

The Lord has challenged us (NLCC) to touch every country in the world. So every month we choose a nation (alphabetically) and we target them by prayer and giving. Souls are ripe; please join us in taking this opportunity to bring in the harvest! If you would like to give, please add a note on your offering that it is for the “Country of the Month”. Thank you.