Sunday, September 4, 2011

English Ministry News and Notes 9-4-11

*Praise & Thanksgiving! First, we want to praise God for a fun-filled, faith-filled Street Fest Sunday.  We opened our doors and reached out with radical hospitality and experienced such joy.  Great thanks to everyone who pitched in from donating towards the gift bags, putting them together, to running day-of activities.  Your participation and contribution made a difference!
*It's a Party, Sept. 10th - You are invited to celebrate the beginning of a new season of Small Groups with a party!  We're gathering Saturday from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.  Our time together will build community, orient us to the new season, and of course, be fun!  Please RSVP today!
*Rally Day - Sept. 11th!  We're kicking off a new season of Sunday School (children/youth and adults) as well as Small Groups.  You are encouraged to take a new step: if you haven't been attending Sunday School, consider participating; if you haven't been a part of small groups, consider joining.  These are important ways that we nurture growth together!  Please note: Sunday School will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. for children, youth and adults!  Your promptness is appreciated.
*Gum Moon Women's Residence Tour - A private tour has been set up for us to tour the Gum Moon Women's Residence in San Francisco.  Founded in the mid-1800s to save Chinese immigrant women from prostitution by the Methodist Church, Gum Moon continues to serve disadvantaged women and children in the Chinatown area.  The tour will be held on September 17 at 11am-12pm.  We will go to dim sum afterwards.  Sign up on the Social Hall bulletin board.  Directions will be provided for everyone shortly and carpools organized for those who need a ride. Contact Steve Chan or Derek Lang for questions.
* Asian Health Services Annual Gala - Please connect with Derek Lang or Steve Chan if you would like to attend this event on Saturday, September 24th at Oakland Marriott City Center! Tickets are $100/person. Proceeds benefit AHS’s comprehensive health center.
* Support the YCVM Benefit Dinner by donating new “desirable” items, or gift certificates of any kind (services or goods) to their Silent Auction! The benefit dinner will be held on October 7th. Items may be brought to church beginning September 25th, but you can pledge your donation now by connecting with Becky Wong.
*Mark Your Calendars Now for October Happenings:
· 2nd Annual YCVM Benefit Dinner, Oct. 7th @ 6:00 p.m
· World Communion Sunday Joint Worship & Luncheon, Oct. 9th @ 10:30 a.m.
· Food Pantry Orientation (LMUMC & CCUMC), Oct. 15th @ 10:00 a.m.
· Treasures of the Transformed Life Stewardship Season begins, Oct. 16th (Used copies for sale at fellowship time or can be ordered online.)