Finding Your Way Home .................................1Christmas, Like the Cross, Tells of His Sacrifice 2Bd. of Administration Meeting Highlights ......3Renew Your Rebirth........................................6Holy Communion ...........................................6Behold the Savior Christmas Service ...............7Church Contribution Envelopes ......................8

A Reminder ....................................................8Mark Your Calendar ........................................9Thank You Notes .............................................9Calendar .......................................................10 Just for Kids ..................................................12Trail Life for Boys ..........................................13Family Christmas Celebration .......................13

Women’s Ministries ......................................13PrimeTimer Updates .....................................14Wall of Gratitude ..........................................15Why?, A Series for Advent ............................15Christmas Eve Services .................................16Celebrate the Season: Festival of Tables ........16Missions News ..............................................17

DECEMBER 2015Finding Your Way Homeby Dr. Jody Bowser, Senior Pastor

Behold the Savior! Christmas Services P. 7 • Christmas Eve Services P. 16

MESSENGER

I pray that you Find Your Way Home this

Christmas.

It’s a story that is played out time after time after time. Bridges are burned. Relationships are broken. Words are spoken that can never be retracted.

I’m not just talking about casual friendships, or mere acquaintances. I’m talking about family. I’m talking about parents and children, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives. I’m talking about home.

Jesus told the story two thousand years ago. He spoke of a son—and a father—and a brother (Luke 15). He spoke of selfishness, and short sightedness, and hurtful words spoken in haste. He spoke about heartbreak, and separation and arrogance.

But the heart of the story…the moral of the story…has far more to do with love than hate. Far more to do with hope than

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back to Him. I pray that you “Find Your Way Home” this

Christmas. Reach out to those you’ve been keeping at arm’s length. And more impor-tantly—reach out to God. I can promise you His door is open. The light is on. The Father is waiting for you to return.

Christmas, Like the Cross, Tells of His Sacrificeby Don Baker, Executive Pastor

Most of us probably don’t think of Christmas and sacrifice in the same light. From time to time we may sacrifice something for ourselves to give a Christmas gift to someone we love but, for the most part, Christmas is about abundance, not sacrifice. When we think of Christ and sacrifice we usually think of the crucifixion. Right? But could I encourage you to think differently this Christmas? Especially as we consider the manger.

Think of the sacrifice Jesus made at His birth! Jesus, the Creator of the world, the Son of God, gave up His position in Heaven, His place of glory and honor, to come to Earth and begin His journey to death in our place (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus was born in a barn (no room in the inn) so that we could have a heavenly home (John 14:2). Jesus made Himself nothing (Phil. 2:7) so that we could receive a crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4). Jesus was forced to be a refugee and pursued by Herod to be killed so that we could be adopted into the family of God and set free (Eph. 1:5; Hebrews 2:14, 15).

Jesus sacrificed everything at Christmas! As we think of the birth of Christ and cel-ebrate this special time of year, remember this sacrifice—praise and thank Him—and then, live it (Romans 12:1).

disappointment. The sin and selfishness—that’s the human story. The grace and reconciliation —that’s heaven’s story. That’s God’s message. That’s God’s Word to the world. It’s Christmas. It’s Jesus. The world is full of prodigals. Lonely prodigals. Chambersburg is full of prodigals. You may be a prodigal. You may not look the part. You clean up pretty good. And you’ve brought others into your story: spouses and children and friends. But deep down, you know your heart. And you know you’re a prodigal. You’re continuing to nurse a grudge that should have been released years ago. You’re running, and empty, and you’ve made all kinds of horrible choices trying to fill the hole in your heart—to numb the pain in your soul. And those “sinful habits” have simply become part of you. Like the color of your eyes, or the way you spend your Sunday afternoons. They’ve just become part of how others see you, and how you see yourself.

There just comes a point where home becomes a distant memory. Almost like a myth. Others might have a “home”—but not you. Bridges have been burned. Relationships have been broken. Words have been spoken that can never be retracted.

Is this you? Am I describing you?Please—listen to me. Check that. Listen to

God. Listen to Jesus when He said, “God loves this world so very much that He gave His one and only Son. And whoever believes in Him will never perish, but will inherit eternal life” (John 3:16).

It is NEVER too late to go home. Home— as in heaven. Home—as in God. Home— as in parents, wives, husbands, children. Home— as in reconciliation. Home— as in love.

You are NEVER so lost, or so “bad,” that you can’t find your way home. God’s arm is never so short that He cannot save. His ear never so deaf that He cannot hear (Isaiah 59).

Christmas is “God with us”—Immanuel. Christmas is God loving us. Christmas is God coming all the way to us, to take us all the way

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KING STREET CHURCH exists to reach people at their level of spiritual

interest and lead them to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

We believe that becoming a fully-devoted follower of Christ involves four core values: CONNECT: Genuinely seek God through worship and prayer. GROW: Intentionally become more like Jesus. SERVE: Generously give ourselves to others in Jesus’ name. SHARE: Compassionately reveal the Good News to our world.

______________________________

Ministry StaffKen Adams, Business ManagerDon Baker, Executive PastorMitch Benedict, Worship Arts AssociateJody Bowser, Senior PastorStephen Flint, Director of Choral and Instrumental Ministries and Associate Minister of Pastoral CareMatt Gish, Pastor of High School MinistriesBecky Hann, Director of Children’s MinistriesNathan Hann, Director of Contemporary and Blended WorshipTyler Roberts, Media and Production CoordinatorJohn Shadle, Pastor of Middle School and College MinistriesLes Stine, Minister of Pastoral Care

______________________________

January 2016 Messenger DeadlineArticles and information for the January 2016

issue should be submitted by December 16.______________________________

The Messenger is a monthly publication of King Street United Brethren Church162 East King St., Chambersburg, PA 17201Phone: (717) 264-4651, Fax: (717) 264-9408Internet: www.kingstreetchurch.com

Don Burkholder, editor (donburk@comcast.net)

Board of Administration Meeting Highlights

The Board of Administration met on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 in Room M115. Steve Shadle, chairman, called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Chuck Schussler opened the meeting with devotions and prayer. Following are highlights from this meeting:

Senior Pastor's Report:Jody Bowser shared that it is great to be at

KSC and that he and his family continue to settle into their new home and surroundings. He stated that his first series on Sunday morn-ings is a way to share the messages that are at the top of his heart: that we be a church that seeks God and His Word and studies His Word together. Pastor Jody expressed how he has been blessed to see so many in KSC that have a heart for the lost and hurting. Jody reviewed the top five goals that KSC presented for the first two years of his ministry here and how he hopes to achieve them.

Executive Pastor’s Report:Don Baker noted the tremendous sense of

excitement within the staff and the congrega-tion as Pastor Jody begins his ministry at KSC. He reported that six persons were baptized during October, bringing the annual total to 16 baptisms. There were seven child dedications during the month of October, bringing the annual total to 23 dedications. There will be six new partners recognized during the month of November, bringing the annual total to 11 new partners. Pastor Baker shared that there are great testimonies in all of these areas. Don stated that there was an attendance increase during the first two Sundays of November. He expressed his thankfulness for those who led from the pulpit during the month of October: Mike Wentz, John Shadle, Matt Gish and Eric Bert. Don stated that members of the staff

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attended a one day leadership event in Lan-caster. Don shared that there are a lot of people hurting, a lot of painful situations, along with all of the good that is happening in our con-gregation and asks that we remember to lift each other up in prayer. He noted that the staff continues to work hard and that we are moving into a very busy time of ministry after a great fall season. Don discussed the ongoing technical issues in the Sanctuary during the 9:45 Sanc-tuary Service. Following a time of discussion, a motion to approve, on a trial basis, the use of a replacement sound system component from First Baptist Church in Orlando, Florida passed.

Elder’s Reports: Mike Wentz expressed the elders’ grateful-

ness at having Pastor Jody attend their meeting. He noted that elder candidates will be presented for board approval at the December meeting. Mike shared that the elders spent time during their last meeting getting to know Jody and together spent time in prayer seeking God’s direction for KSC.

Commission Reports: • Children and Youth – Sue Washabaugh noted

that Becky Hann has reported an upcoming opening for Nursery Coordinator, as Lisa McMichael will be relocating with her family. Sue stated that the Children’s Ministry has many needs for helpers as well as teachers. The After School Program is also in need of tutors and that at this time the program is no longer able to accept new students. She shared how exciting it is to see our youth that have graduated going forward for God. Sue noted that 170 youth attended the All Nighter on October 30 and had a great time.

• Finance – Ray Cullen stated that the commission reviewed September’s financial results as well as upcoming fourth quarter expenses. Ray reported that the commission reviewed and made minor adjustments to the proposed 2016 operating budget and stated

that the individual commissions did a great job putting their budgets together. He stated that the commission will meet on December 2 to prepare offering envelopes for 2016.

Ken presented the October Financial Summary. He noted that October giving and expenses were under the budgeted amount. Year to date expenses and income are under the budgeted amount. Ken presented and reviewed the proposed 2016 KSC operating budget. A motion to approve this budget passed.

• Local Outreach – Dave Miller stated that the commission held its meeting on November 3. Dave reported a good turnout from various ministries who shared positive ways God is working in their ministry, as well as needs and prayer requests. Dave noted that Once More Ministries is holding their quarterly toiletry drive during the month of November to prepare for their next distribution, which will be held on Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. He expressed his gratefulness for the congre-gation’s generous giving during the last drive held in August. Dave distributed the revised Orphan Care/Adoption Committee structure document and discussed changes that have been made. There is still a need for someone to lead this committee. A motion to approve the document, with requested revisions as noted, passed.

• Missions – Brian Mace stated that the com-mission met on Monday, November 2. Adam Keath attended the meeting and provided an update on the Thailand Barnabas Team, noting that Bryan and Emily continue their work with the CSL Church and are expecting to return to the States on furlough in April 2016. Brian discussed recent decisions on requests made for support under the Affiliated Ministry Policy. One applicant was denied, based on non affilia-tion with KSC for an extended time. Following a time of discussion, a motion to support a one-time goodwill contribution, apart from the Affiliated Ministry Policy, as support for

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Kyle Bushre passed. Brian noted that a team of seven persons will be traveling to Haiti from November 14 through November 21. A motion to approve matching funds to Pastor Richard per our MOU with the Arcahaie congregation passed.

• Personnel Relations – Eric Oyer reported that Lisa McMichael will be leaving as Nursery Coordinator due to relocation and that Becky Hann and Don Baker are currently looking at possible job description revisions. Eric dis-tributed a revised copy of the PRC leadership structure document and reviewed wording changes. A motion to approve the revisions to the document passed. He distributed a revised copy of the Personnel Handbook Acknowledgement statement and reviewed changes. A motion to approve the revisions to the document, with noted changes passed. Eric discussed two requests that were made by the Compensation Committee to the PRC regarding pay ranges. A motion to approve the adjustment to the pay ranges as recommended by the Compensation Committee passed. He reviewed which current job positions qualify for a cell phone allowance. A motion to increase the reimbursement for the Senior Pastor passed. On behalf of the PRC and the Board of Administra-tion, in recognition of Don Baker’s extremely good and dedicated leadership over the past 22 months, Eric presented Don with a token of the church’s appreciation. Don replied that it was a total staff/team effort.

• Property – Alex Rohrbaugh stated that the commission appreciated John Little joining the meeting and his input. He noted that New-comer Associates is continuing work on the interior design drawings for 56 N. Second Street and expects that they will be completed by the end of the year. A team of volunteers will be returning to the property for more demolition work before the next phase of construction begins. Alex shared that the necessary repairs for the parking lot adjacent to the sanctuary

have been completed. He reported that quotes for the renovation for the KSC Community Center have not yet been received, but the commission is looking at the possibility that the windows will need to be replaced as well. Alex noted that the curb and sidewalk repairs along King Street, which were approved at the October board meeting, will hopefully be completed before the end of the year. Alex reported that a request has been made to have an additional handrail installed in the stairway from the choir room to the sanctuary entering the choir loft. The commission is looking into whether this is permissible due to possible code concerns.

• Worship Arts – Chuck Schussler reported that there is a new bulletin board display for Worship Arts located outside of Guest Central, where information will be provided about upcoming programs as well as needs. Chuck requested ongoing prayer for Nate Hann, Steve Flint, Mitch Benedict, and Nicco Ravenna as we move into this very busy time of the year. Chuck shared a reminder for the upcoming Christmas production, “Behold the Savior,” to be held December 6 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Chuck mentioned the recent inclusion of a string quartet during worship services, coordi-nated by Jason Ankerbrand, and stated that they are hoping to repeat this in the future. Chuck noted that 40 children are participating in Kids Choir and it is going well. A motion to approve the purchase of four room darkening blinds for the Baker Center passed. These blinds will be installed in front of the current blinds and used to control the ambient lighting of the room.

Administrative Report:Ken Adams reported that Nominee Response

Forms have been mailed to the qualified can-didates who were nominated for individual commissions. Once returned, the Nominating Committee will then forward the forms to the commissions for their review. Ken presented a request from Jody Bowser to approve a portion

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Renew Your Rebirth by Nancy FritzPrayer Ministry

I can’t imagine what Christmas would be like without music! I’m glad the radio starts playing Christmas music early—I love them all! The lyrics of one song declares that Christmas is “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” Whether or not you agree with this statement may depend on where you are in the maze of shopping, decorating, baking, wrapping, partying, rehearsing for the Christmas Pageant, etc. Affluence and the media have made it very easy for us to become distracted from the most meaningful things in life.

A number of years ago, on Christmas Eve, the church was packed with people. As I sat in the darkened sanctuary, holding my lit candle, the first strains of Silent Night began to waft through the crowd. At that instant the Holy Spirit gave me a brief message: “Nancy, this would be a good time for you to renew your rebirth.” Since that night many years ago,

Christmas Eve has become a time for me to recommit my life to Christ—to be reminded of His purpose for coming to earth and His Amazing Grace that allows us to become His children; to realign my priorities and realize that my time on earth is running out. Like a tiny hole in a balloon, little by little my zeal for the Gospel can lose buoyancy; my daily quiet time, which was birthed in spiritual intimacy and eagerness to learn, can shrivel into the same ritualistic rote, perhaps three or four times a week. Without a daily dose of the Living Word, my attitude, speech and thoughts can easily slip over into the carnal lane of the speeding highway of life.

So for me, “the most wonderful time of the year” has become a time to get back on track spiritually. No, I don’t need to be saved again, thanks to God’s ongoing grace, forgiveness and patience with me. But I can “renew my rebirth experience” and begin the new year revitalized, with a recharged spiritual battery, which, if used daily, will supply the discipline, motivation and inspiration I need to guard against lethargy or stagnancy. During this Christmas season, I pray you’ll take a few minutes to simply be still and listen closely - God may have a specific message for YOU!

“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen” ( II Peter 3:18).

of his salary to be designated as housing allow-ance for the remainder of 2015. A motion to approve this request passed. Ken discussed a request from the Downtown Business Council for a donation for the Annual Christmas Parade. A motion on this request passed. Ken discussed a request regarding the Scout cabin, which was donated by the Burkholder family in 2010. A motion to donate the cabin and ground back to the Burkholder family passed.

(These highlights are taken from minutes written by Dixie D. Cantrell, Recording Sec-retary for the Board of Administration. Board meetings are open to members of King Street Church. Unabridged copies of the minutes from the November meeting will be available at the church office after they are approved at the next meeting.)

December 13 , 2015Contributions are designated for the Community Assistance Program for

the upcoming winter season.

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Our Christmas production, Behold the Savior!, will be held one day only, Sunday, December 6,

at 4 and 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. The theme of this special Christmas service is “from darkness to

light.” Pastor Jody Bowser will include a gospel presentation in the message, so we encourage you to invite others to the program. You should receive an invitation in your worship folder and there are more in the lobbies. Take a few and give them out to anyone who might be

blessed by an evening of Hope and Good News!

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Church Contribution Envelopesfrom the KSC Finance Commission

December is here again and we need to remind you of one more item to put on your “To Do” list. You need to pick up your Church Contribution Envelopes.

The Finance Commission will set up our distribution tables in the foyer beside the Sanc-tuary on Sunday, December 6 and Sunday, December 13. If you contribute using church envelopes or have requested envelopes, please stop and pick up the box with your name. If you wish to pick up your envelopes during the week, just stop by the foyer between these two dates. If you do not currently have envelopes and would like to receive them, please call the church office (264-4651) and we will have a box prepared and set out for you.

If you are contributing by check or cash, we encourage you to use contribution enve-lopes even if you choose not to show the dollar amounts or your name on the envelope. These envelopes assist the office in recording your contributions.

We do offer two electronic contribution options also: online credit card donations and automatic ACH (your account to King Street’s account) contributions. You can visit our website to learn more about these options.

Remember, contributions are tax deductible and you will receive a receipt for recorded annual contributions over $250. For other amounts you can request a receipt from the church office. Your contributions continue to support King Street Church’s effort as a growing church to “Reach people at their level of spiritual interest and lead them to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.” If you are contributing electronically or are not using your envelopes, please advise the church office so we can keep an accurate count of envelopes

Your year-end tithes, offerings and gifts MUST BE RECEIVED or, if mailing, post-marked by 12/31/2015 in order to qualify and be credited to your 2015 contri-bution records as a tax-deductible donation.

A Reminder

required.As you scurry through this holiday season,

please be reminded of the reason that we celebrate this season, the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. All the members of the Finance Commission would like to wish our entire church family the very best during the holiday season. Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Winter/Spring Wednesday Night Classes

Begin on January 6Classes that will be offered include men’s

and women’s Bible studies, GriefShare (beginning 2/3), Pottery, Financial Peace University and New Testament: Structure

and Story. Additional classes will be added to the list. Check the January

Messenger and upcoming worship folders for a complete list.______

Samaritans Fund AuctionSaturday, March 19Matt Hurley, auctioneer

Sponsored by the KSC deacons

Many thanks for your cards I received to help celebrate my 90th birthday anniversary. Your printed and written comments are really appreciated. Thank you. Thank you!!

Earl Petersu u u

We were so blessed to receive the fabric you collected and gave us. How can we say thank you in the very best way?! You are an amazing fellowship of believers and we are blessed to be part of your missionary outreach. We had a big need, you responded and you gave abundantly! May you receive a huge return on your giving!

From The House of Grace Kelly Snyder Janet Johnston Eileen Parsons Carlene Jumagalli and all of the ladies

Pick up one of four

Advent devotionals

in the lobby and prepare your

heart for Christmas!

MONDAY TUESDAYSUNDAY

DECEMBER 2015JANUARY 2015

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30

NOVEMBER 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

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6 7 8

13 14 15

20 21 22

27 28 29

8:15, 9:45, Worship Services and Intercessor Meetingsand 11 a.m. 9:45 a.m. Sunday School11 a.m. Preschool and Kids Worship Adult and Youth Sunday School4:00 p.m. Behold the Savior! Christmas Service6:30 p.m. Behold the Savior! Christmas Service

8:15, 9:45, Worship Services and Intercessor Meetingsand 11 a.m. 9:45 a.m. Sunday School11 a.m. Preschool and Kids Worship Adult and Youth Sunday School

8:15, 9:45, Worship Services and Intercessor Meetingsand 11 a.m. 9:15 a.m. Blood Pressure Check, Parish Nurse Room (M117)9:45 a.m. Sunday School11 a.m. Preschool and Kids Worship Adult and Youth Sunday School

8:15, 9:45, Worship Services and Intercessor Meetingsand 11 a.m. 9:45 a.m. Sunday School11 a.m. Preschool and Kids Worship Adult and Youth Sunday School

Second Sunday of Advent

Communion, Third Sunday of Advent

Fourth Sunday of Advent First Day of Winter

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY2 3 4 5

9 10 11 12

16 17 18 19

23 24 25 26

30 31

7:00 p.m. Family Christmas Celebration Youth Street Meeting Adult Elective Classes

12:00 p.m. PrimeTimers Christmas Luncheon7:00 p.m. Youth Street Meeting Adult Elective Classes

7:00 p.m. Youth Street Meeting Adult Elective Classes

3:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Sanctuary

4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Baker Ctr.

6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Sanctuary

7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Service, Sanctuary

9:30 a.m. Saturday Sanctuary Fellowship Room

9:00 a.m. Once More Ministries Distribution

9:30 a.m. Widows Fellowship Event

Fellowship Room

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

Christmas Day

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JUST FOR KIDS

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Trail Life for BoysBoys in grades K-12 are invited

to join Trail Life, a Christian-based outdoor adventure club. They will meet on Monday nights at 6:30 at Cumber-land Valley Christian School. For more information, call KSC member Wayne Myers at (717) 816-7027 or visit the official website: www.traillifeusa.com.

SATURDAY SANCTUARYDecember 5

9:30 a.m., Fellowship Roomu u u u u u u u u

WIDOWS FELLOWSHIP EVENT

Women who have lost a spouse are invited to a Christmas Fellowship Event on Saturday, December 12, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Our Women of Worth Widows Ministry will be hosting the event in the Fellowship Room. Bring a snack to share; drinks will be provided. We will offer an evergreen centerpiece craft for a sug-gested donation of $3. Invite a friend and please RSVP by December 6: (717) 729-2835 (Mary Armstrong) or womensministry@kschurch.org.

Families of children in preschool and elementary grades are invited to a

Christmas Party December 2 at 7 p.m. in the Baker Center.

We’ll have games, refreshments, a Christmas lesson, photo booth, singing by the Children’s Choir and other themed activities! Please RSVP online at www.kingstreetchurch.com.

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Checks should be made payable to KSC PrimeTimers.Call Karen Aikman, (717) 267-2116 or (717) 860-0008, to sign up for the events.

Send deposits or payments to Karen Aikman, 604 Devon Dr., Chambersburg, PA 17201. Call Jerry Aikman, 267-2116, for more information.

° Christ in the Smokies Museum and Gardens ° Four Shows: “The Smokey Mountain Opry” “HatfieldandMcCoyDinnerShow” “Patty Waszak Show” “Country Tonight” • Thecostofthetripincludes: ° TransportationonaBollmancoachbus ° Fourshowsincludingthedinnershow ° Twodinnersandthreebreakfasts ° Step-on-guideattheNationalPark ° Dollywood ° Christ in the Smokies Museum and Gardens ° Gratuitiesandbaggagehandling

DecemberPrimeTimers Christmas Luncheon • Wednesday,December9 • Cost:$15 • CutoffandpaymentduebyNovember19 • Entertainmentwillbeginatnoon,followed bythecateredmeal.

Looking Ahead to 2016Samson at Sight and Sound • Tuesday, May 24, 2016 • Cost:$100 • Signupandpaymentdue:April22,2016 • Showat11a.m.followedbydinnerat 2:30p.m.atPlainandFancy

•CostincludesSamson,dinner,taxesand gratuities

u u u

Smokey Mountain – Pigeon Forge • October 17–20, 2016 • Cost:$645Double,(singleandtriple pricesavailable)

• Signupandpaymentdue:August1,2016 • Includes:

° AguidedtouroftheSmokeyMountain NationalPark

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Potluck Lunches • January13 • February10 • March9 • BakerCenteratNoon • Meatandplacesettingsprovided • Costbydonation

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Are you thankful for God’s goodness in and through our church? Would you be willing to share this with others by writing a brief note on the chalk-boards in the chalkboard hallway in the Rotz Foyer? Please consider taking a moment to express your gratitude for God’s blessings in and through King Street Church in 2015. Let’s fill the hallway and encourage one another with public expressions of thankfulness!

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ServicesThursday, December 24

3, 6 and 7:30 p.m.Sanctuary

4:30 p.m., Baker CenterBring your family to a reverent and

joy-filled Christmas Eve service. A very special moment in the service will be the lighting of candles as we

sing Silent Night.

Nursery provided for ages 3 and under at 3, 4:30 and 6.

A Festival of Tables is when all the tables in the room are decorated in a unique way, but following the same theme. Our Women’s Ministries group has enjoyed hosting several festivals, and they are a big hit with all the ladies who attend! The next Festival of Tables will be Saturday, January 23, at 6:30 p.m. in the Baker Center.

Our theme is Celebrate the Seasons! Hostesses will decorate their table to reflect either spring, summer, fall or winter. You can also plan special snacks that are specific to your season. Show everyone in the room exactly WHY you love your favorite season! Maybe it’s springtime flowers, or summer fireflies, the harvest in fall or the magic of winter snow.

We will be looking for ladies who are willing to hostess a table and other helpers who can bake treats. Enjoy special music, and a message from a guest speaker. The event is free. Register to hostess a table, bake treats or attend by January 16. Contact Mary Armstrong (729-2835) or email womensministry@kschurch.org.

MISSIONS NEWS

Excerpts from “The Reecks’ Report” Newsletter(Roger and Marilyn are based in Honduras with Wycliffe Bible Translators)

Most years we do not celebrate Thanksgiv-ing. It isn’t a tradition in Honduras. However, many years ago when the Garifuna Old Testa-ment was being translated and the translation team was working at an office in our house we invited all of them to have Thanksgiving dinner with us. Including family it came to 20 people. That day many Garifuna people came to the office and we assumed that they were family or friends of one of the team members. As each one walked in Roger invited them to eat with us. That meant many extra people at the table but the Lord extended the food and all ate heartily. At the end of the day when we asked, “Who were those guys?” No one seemed to know them. Strangers? It made it seem like a real Thanksgiving—more like the first one.

Even without a big dinner we can still feel grateful. Here are some things that we are thankful for:

1) Back in the spring the two Venezuelan Bible story teams (that we were consultants to) finished their story set and the stories are being used to reach people for Christ.

2) Roger’s ankle replacement was successful.3) Roger was able to travel to Brazil and

Guinea Bissau in the summer, but that was only because of the prayers of so many of you!

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The Lord sustained him and he was able to do the Bible translation consulting that he set out to do.

4) Marilyn was able to travel to Venezuela in September and be with six new Indian groups who were being trained to start Bible story projects.

5) There are seven different Venezuelan Indian groups who are beginning to translate the book of Luke into their language. We are consultants to three of the language projects. God’s Word is taking shape in hearts and lives.

6) We are thankful that the Miskito Bible story programs are on the air in Honduras and soon in Nicaragua. The response has been very positive.

7) We are thankful for the members of our family and how the Lord has taken care of each one of them during this last year. We pray that we continually grow in Him.

After two weeks of additional training in Dallas we are off again—Roger to Africa and Marilyn to England. There she will teach a week–long course in Bible storying at a training session for missionaries at Redcliffe College. This is something new for her (to teach in English, not Spanish) so she appreciates your prayers. Marilyn will be back in Honduras in time for Christmas.

Thoughts from MarilynI know that there are so many of you in

Roger’s position—suffering an ailment that leads to discomfort and pain and not being as productive and active as desired. And you question why. But, even though you don’t know or feel it you bring glory to His name. Others look on and see you as an example to follow which helps them to not complain about the little things and to push forward.

And I often wonder why does Roger have to live with a high level of nerve pain when he is at the peak of his production level? He has never been so knowledgeable and capable to come alongside others and guide them in

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understanding how to present the Word of God in their own language. And he feels great joy in doing it. He continually works at improv-ing his ability to speak Portuguese so that he can consult the translations in Guinea Bissau, Mozambique and Brazil. Recently, the projects in Venezuela have been added to his workload.

Roger left for Mozambique and he wonders if he will be able to work the long hours needed. Will he need to take time out during the con-sultant sessions because pain is causing him to not be able to work?

It seems selfish to always ask for prayer for Roger when we know that others are in worse situations. Roger continually expresses that your prayers have sustained him and make it possible for him to accomplish “the purpose of His will.” We appreciate your partnering with us to bring about “the praise of His glory.”

Prayer Requests from the Kisamores(Travis and Bekii serve in Quemchi, Chiloe Island, Chile, with Eastern Mennonite Missions. The updates are submitted by Anne Vincenti, Bekii’s mother)

As the Kisamores are getting ready for a short furlough in the United States over the Christmas holidays, here are some prayer requests from them;

•There will be four more weeks of Kid’s Club before they go on leave. Please pray that the lessons will be meaningful for the children, and that they will have a clear understanding of the Christmas story. Also pray that there will be enough help for these gatherings to proceed safely.

• After the Kisamore’s return to Quemchi, they will be reassessing this program and seeking God’s direction for it.

• At this time Travis and Bekii must be making decisions about schooling for Esperanza

and Theo. Their new school year will begin soon after their return to Chile in January. School is a requirement for Chilean children beginning at age three, so they will both qualify, but there are different options available. Please join them in prayer for the best solutions for them and their children’s needs.

• New (and old) relationships are developing, especially because of having a family and school connections now. They are getting to know other parents through school programs. Bekii was just in a school related program (dancing as a dog, it looked like) with another mother, which opened another door for relationship-building. A prayer opportunity recently brought about a new closeness with another mother. Praise God for continued ministry, often in new areas!

• Lastly, Travis and Bekii appreciate your prayers for them as they look forward to their time at home with family and friends. And upon returning to the field after that, they are anxious for God’s clear vision—the work He has planned for them with the time they will remain in Quemchi, Chiloe, Chile.

A Report from the Gerlachs(Bryan and Emily serve in Thailand with the UB Global Ministries)

We miss you guys like crazy and cannot wait to reconnect this spring/summer!

We could really use some prayer for our visa paperwork. Since we are getting our visas through the Cool Shade of Life Church’s foundation, instead of through the big FCF organization, we have a lot more responsibility in getting the paperwork together. It used to be very easy for us and all we had to do was sign some documents, but now we have to prepare the documents as well. We have had some great help with this, but it is still very complicated and very important to get it right.

So, we are heading to immigration to apply for 90 day visas, which will then allow us to apply for one year visas.

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Please pray that we have all of the needed paperwork and that everything goes smoothly, both this week and in the coming months as we apply for the one year visa.

We are also in the process of praying about a new sending organization, so please keep that in your prayers for us as well. We have given ourselves a deadline of making the decision by the new year and we could really use prayer for wisdom for that decision.

Lastly, we (like everyone else) are going to be really busy for the next few months with the holidays here, and a lot of other random things (Global Ministries trip coming, Visa paperwork, our pregnancy, missions trip with Cool Shade of Life, Bryan’s parents coming to visit, and normal ministry and life). So please pray that we would have strength to do all of that well.

Excerpts from “The Pierces’ E-Postal” Newsletter(Bernie and Sherry serve in France with Christar. They are presently ministering in the US.)

Thanks for praying for the ladies’ care fair. Here is a report back from our dear friend/team leader in Lyon, Keith:

• “First of all thanks to many of you who wrote saying you were praying - that is greatly appreciated!...

• Karen (who is sick- please pray for her) and Liz came back to our house rejoicing over the day’s activity.

• We had called on outsiders (of our church) to come and give a hand, and those who came did a super job! Welcoming, loving on non-be-lievers, encouraging ....

• N did a great job in giving her testimony for the first time. Jesus is for all people!

• There was a small area for anyone who wanted to be prayed over, believers and unbe-lievers were prayed over.

• One gal who has been suffering from

depression for the last three months came and went away greatly encouraged.

• One of our church gals was talking to a gal from Ethiopia who was a newcomer.

• Many of the gals who came, received one more time a loving embrace from Christ fol-lowers. There is one gal whom we have known for a long time who is coming, not only to our activities, but also to our meals (we eat at church two times a month). Pray that S will give her heart to Christ ....”

We have enjoyed several neat opportunities to share the work in France, including one new adult Sunday school class and one partnering fellowship and another partnering a children’s Sunday school class. This week we shared with two groups of Awana children. May God con-tinue to keep these children sensitive and help them to understand what some adults are still learning, that Jesus died because God loved all the world.

Update from Nicky PoarchI am continuing to work with New Tribes

Mission as their personnel secretary for the field of Indonesia. This position requires a lot of correspondence with new personnel wanting to go to Indonesia to serve as well as filing reports and working as a liaison between the field and our home office in Sanford, FL. I work on these responsibilities 15-20 hours weekly. I am working as a secretary at my church as well. I love both jobs and I know the Lord is continuing to provide for my children and me through these jobs. Thank you all for your con-tinued love and prayers as we walk through this journey of grief and changes. I can honestly say it has only been through God’s faithfulness and strength we are doing as well as we are today! We love you all!

Missions news submitted by Sharon Smith

KING

STREET CHURCH

United Brethren in Christ

162 East King StreetCham

bersburg, PA 17201