ABOUT US! CtR Update
This Week at CtR
05/21/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends,
Can I bring some things to our attention as we approach Pentecost on Sunday:
First, it is PENTECOST on Sunday so please wear some RED as a way of celebrating the Birth of the New Creation (always a fun day)
Second, a gentle reminder of our Rwanda Sister-to-Sister meeting immediately after worship. Jane Duffey and Rob Slaughter have agreed to be 'Team Leaders' for our developing relationship but are now looking for the 'team' that will further the work!
Third, another gentle reminder about the wonderful opportunity to serve our youngest members via volunteering for a spot on our Nursery rotation. Please let Jennifer Brown know when you can help.
Fourth, Kim Johnson and her team have decided on a great curriculum for our Summer Sunday School and now are looking for eager folks to teach it! We change things up in the summer and combine our classes into one (with the Pre-School class excepted) and have 2 people each week (you will never be alone!). We also encourage folks who do not teach during the school year to volunteer and give those who do a well-deserved break. A sign-up sheet will be available on Sunday or contact Kim directly.
Fifth, the E-Vite for our Parenting Partners went out this week. I encourage us all to respond as we are able AND to pass this along to our own contacts in the city (or go to evite.com and make your own E-Vite for the event; it's easy enough that even I was able to do it this week!). Continue to Pray, Participate, and Promote this missional event as you are prompted.
Looking forward to worshiping with you on Pentecost.
Peace be with you all.
This Week at CtR
05/13/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
Adjustments are a part of life and I need to inform you of several that have to be made at CtR in the next few weeks:
First, the New Members Liturgical Welcome originally scheduled for Sunday May 30 has been delayed one week until Sunday June 6. Plan now on being present and feel free to help out with the reception that will follow (sign-up this week or next).
Second, the Rwandan Sister-to-Sister Church organizational meeting originally scheduled for this Sunday, May 16 has been delayed one week and will take place after worship on Sunday May 23. Several people who have expressed interest in attending the meeting could not be present this week necessitating the delay.
Third, our Medical Lecture series - PARENTING PARTNERS - begins at the end of this month. If you would like to help out with the planning and execution of this outreach event I invite you to join us immediately after worship in the Fellowship Hall this Sunday May 16. (Note: if you cannot be present on Sunday but would like to help make this series a success please email me - revbriancampbell@gmail.com - or call (757-284-8246).
Fourth, Our new Sister church in Rwanda is a member of the Diocese of Kigali. The Diocese of Kigali is consecrating its new bishop, the Right Reverend Louie Muvunyi on June 20, 2010.
As members of churches that have been linked with the diocese we have been invited to attend the consecration (but you'd better book your ticket now!); asked to pray for the new Bishop; and, if so led, to contribute to a love offering to help defray some of the costs associated with the consecration. If you would like to contribute to this offering please do so by June 6. Make your check out to CtR and note in the memo: Diocese of Kigali. AMiA will present a single gift from all our linked churches to the diocese on our behalf.
Looking forward to worshiping with you on Sunday as we complete our 4 part series on 1 Corinthians 15.
Peace be with you all.
Brian
International Student Event
05/06/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Hey Folks
Can I give a brief update on Saturday's International Student Cook-Out event:
180 invitations have gone out on Facebook to the international students that have been involved in our activities this past year. We have had a dozen confirm, another dozen give regrets, and a further dozen 'maybe's'. So...we are planning on 40-50 guests plus those of us who can join in on the fun.
Here is what we need for Saturday:
Two propane grills (if you can stick around and help cook so much the better; if you cannot but wish to 'donate' your grill we'd appreciate it).
Salads and desserts (we plan on having a very simple menu of burgers and hot dogs with plenty of veggie sides for the vegetarians that are coming). Several of the folks who have told us they are coming are bringing some food but we will need several others to help contribute a salad (of any kind) or some cookies etc.
We plan on having some games set up for fun (ping pong; corn hole; etc). If you have some easy, fun game (outdoor or in) that you could bring, we'd love to have it as well.
Finally, we would like someone to bring a camera and give us a visual record of the event.
If you can help in any of these areas in any way, please contact Emily Louise Zimbrick-Rogers (312-505-6880).
On another front, as I mentioned last week we have now officially been twinned with Mybo Parish in Kigali. Mybo is a Compassion Project parish (which means Compassion can and will be a great help in facilitating our relationship) and the Rev. Stephen Gahigi, Mybo's pastor, speaks English (which is a great asset in facilitating our communication). Please add Mybo and Rev. Stephen to your prayer list. Additionally, I am calling brief meeting of those who would like to spearhead our relationship with Mybo after worship on May 16.
Finally, Clyde Benton is scheduled for his surgery Friday. Kelly Tunno is once again the point person coordinating our help to Betsy and Clyde during his recovery. If you would like to give a meal or set up a time to visit (so they are not overwhelmed on one day or bereft on many) please contact Kelly (757-277-2723).
Have a great and joy-filled week.
Brian
This Week at CtR
04/22/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Just a few things to bring to your attention as we near the weekend;
First, please join with me in congratulating Chris Brown on the occasion of the publishing of his first novel, Beyond the River. This is obviously a major feat for Chris and a great excuse for us to celebrate his use of God's gifts given to him (and what better way to do that but to buy his book!). Well done Chris!
Second, it's not too late to register for our Exploring Membership Class which begins this Sunday after worship and runs for the next 3 weeks. If you have felt God's prompting to deepen your relationship with this community of faith I'd encourage you to act on it and come along for the class.
Third, every year during the Easter season I try to do something different for a sermon series. This year I plan on working my way through 1 Corinthians 15 over the last 4 weeks of the Easter season. Try to read 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 in preparation for Sunday.
Have a great and blessed weekend.
Brian
This Week at CtR
04/14/2010
By Campbell, Brian
There is much that is happening within and around CtR this week:
First, I have a wonderful announcement to make. Kim Johnson has agreed to succeed Jane Duffey as our Director of Children's Ministry. Jane has developed and solidified our Sunday School program and made it a tremendous asset for our ministry. However, with her official appointment as Head of School for Norfolk Christian, the time has come for her to relinquish her leadership role. Allow me, on your behalf, to say 'Thank you' to Jane for her labor of love. Allow me as well on your behalf to welcome Kim to this new appointment and to assure her of our prayers and support as we take the next steps in ministry together.
Second, Serve the City takes place this weekend (Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18) and there is still time to get involved. We as a community place a huge value on Servant ministry and Serve the City is a wonderful way to act on that value. You can volunteer for either a half or full day of service on either or both days. To register please go to 'www.servethecitynorfolk.com' and click on 'Participate' on the bottom of the page. A great way to serve our Lord as we serve those in need around us.
Third, this week is your last chance to bring in your new or used, adult-oriented Backpack for the homeless. Ghent Area Ministries will ensure that they get to the people who truly need them. Drop them off at the church by Friday afternoon.
Fourth, Vacation Bible School in the past has been a fun way to disciple our own children and to reach out with love into the wider community. Our next VBS takes place July 19-23, but our next planning meeting for this outreach ministry takes place this Sunday, April 18 immediately following worship. There are so many ways to be involved and use your gifts and talents. Come and join in on the fun this Sunday.
Fifth, our next 'Exploring Membership Class' will start on Sunday April 25 immediately following worship. If you have been feeling God's nudge about solidifying your relationship with this community then come 'explore' the class and find out what membership is all about. Please let me know that you are planning on coming so I can have enough materials prepared.
Have a great and prompt-filled week!
Brian
Remember to Change your Clocks Tonight
03/13/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Hey Folks
Just a gentle reminder to change your clocks tonight so we all can get to worship on time tomorrow!
While I'm at it:
Please remember to make a note on your calendars for our special Holy Week activities:
Passover Seder Supper on Sunday, March 28 starting at 5:00 p.m. (please remember to sign up for this event)
Maundy Thursday service on Thursday, April 1 starting at 7:00 p.m.
Good Friday service on Friday, April 2 starting at noon.
If you would like to help make Easter special, plan on bringing in some plastic eggs or some small wrapped candy for our Easter Egg hunt.
If you are wishing to explore baptism for yourself or your child, please speak to me as soon as possible (next baptism takes place on April 11)
If you are wishing to explore membership within Christ the Redeemer please sign up on Sunday or let me know of your interest (we will schedule the class to suit those who are interested in attending).
Looking forward to worshiping with you tomorrow.
Peace be with you all.
Brian
Looking Ahead
03/03/2010
By Campbell, Brian
I have been told (by one who loves me dearly) that my Updates (like my sermons) are becoming longer!
I will attempt to keep this one briefer:
Ministry Opportunities:
'The Backpack Challenge' is back! Ghent Area Ministries is once again collecting used and new adult backpacks for the homeless to be distributed at the Project Homeless Connect at Scope in April. Please bring in your donation before April 18 and we'll make sure it gets into the right hands
Calling all Photographers! If you enjoy taking pictures and would like to add value to our web site then plan on meeting with Isaac Pletcher after worship this Sunday.
Advertising and Marketing: If you like to help CtR 'get the word out' about our community in mulitple ways (via production of promotional materials, possible advertising for direct mail, ideas about using neigborhood newsletters etc), then please speak to me (Brian Campbell) after worship, respond to this email, or call me on my cell (284-8246). There are several outreach oriented events being planned in the next few months and the time to act is 'now'!
Sacramental and other Preparation:
Baptismal planning: If you would like to explore baptism for you or your children then please speak to me as soon as possible. Our next scheduled Sunday for baptisms is April 11, the week after Easter.
Our Next 'Membership Class' starts shortly after Easter as well. If you have been prompted by God to consider membership within CtR then speak to me at your convenience. The dates for the class are flexible but will need to be firmed up in the next few weeks.
Something to Celebrate:
Isaac Pletcher has completed his Master's project (a short film) and will be previewing it for any who would like to see it this Sunday following worship in the Fellowship Hall. All are welcomed to stay and enjoy Isaac' creativity (and support him in it as well).
Looking forward to worshiping with you on Sunday (half way through LENT!)
Peace be with you all
Brian
Looking Ahead to Lent
02/10/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends,
Allow me to catch you up on several fronts as we head into the Lenten Season.
First, some Prayer Updates:
- Bob Filer is gaining strength and hopes to be with us in worship on Sunday. Bob is grateful for all of your prayers (and food!).
- Christi Cirillo reports that the children are slowly getting over their illness and that she is 'seeing some light at the end of the tunnel'. She is extremely grateful for all of the support she has received from CtR (Kudo's to Kelly Tunno for organizing all of this on our behalf).
- Keith Waterman told me on Sunday that he has received one job offer and is waiting to hear from several others. He is grateful for your prayers. (I told Keith we'd continue to pray asking for the best fit for him!)
- Our 4rth 'Fun, Food & Friendship' takes place this Saturday, February 13 from 6:00- 9:00 pm. If you have a 'game system' and would be willing to lend it to us (or better yet, come and set it up and 'man it' for the event) or would be willing to provide some food for the party, please email Emily Louise (emilylouise.zimbrick@gmail.com).
- If you have some ideas about how to get the most out of our web site (both in terms of discipleship and missional outreach) you are invited to join a discussion on Saturday, February 13 at 10:30 am (Let me know if you cannot make this date but would like to be involved in future meetings).
- If you would like to join in on the discussion about our 'Conversational Pre-Evangelistic Coffee House' idea, plan on staying after our Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper (roughly 7:30 or 7:45 pm Feb. 16). Let Jim Lingenfelter know of your interest if you cannot make the meeting (jimisown@aol.com).
- Christianity Explored begins on Saturday February 20. Invitations can be picked up for this course on Sundays. If you have a friend who is spiritually open and seeking, pray for a chance to invite them to consider the course (and plan on taking them to it). Contact Emily Louise for more information (emilylouise.zimbrick@gmail.com)
- Our Second Annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper takes place February 16 beginning at 6:00 pm. If you are planning on coming but haven't 'signed up' as of yet, or would be willing to help with the set-up and cooking please let Kandace and Calvin Sherrill know (calkan@cox.net). We plan on having a brief program - culminating in the burning of the palms- at 7:00 pm.
- Our Ash Wednesday service takes place on Wednesday February 17 at 6:00 pm. (Please remember to bring your Palm Crosses from last year's Holy Week on Sunday or Tuesday at the latest).
Brian
Looking Ahead
02/04/2010
By Campbell, Brian
As we look ahead to Lent there are many things happening around CtR!
Please read this blog with an open mind asking 'what does God wish me to do with this?':
Lenten News:
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It's time to return the Palm crosses from last year's Palm Sunday service. Baskets will be placed on the tables at both entrances on Sunday;
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SHROVE TUESDAY's Pancake Supper takes place on Tuesday, February 16 beginning at 6:00 p.m. We will have a short program at 7:00 where we will ceremonially burn the crosses to make the ash for the next day! Great and fun way to start off our Lenten journey. Invite a friend to join you!
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ASH WEDNESDAY service takes place on Wednesday February 17 at 6:00 pm. Plan now to mark the beginning of this great season with your brother's and sisters in Christ.
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Outreach Opportunities:
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'Fun, Food & Friendship' event for International Students takes place on Saturday February 13 from6:00 - 9:00 p.m. We plan on having an 'Electronic Game Night' (Guitar Hero, Dancing Revolution, maybe some Karaoke). I will send out a separate notice sharing how you could help with this event.
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Christianity Explored Course: Jennifer and Mike Dodson will be hosting this 8 week exploratory look at Mark’s gospel. This is a wonderful way of introducing a ‘seeker’ to the claims of the gospel. If you have a friend who is open to spiritual things, pray for an opportunity to invite them to the course (and join them in it!). Begins on Saturday Februrary 20 (9:30 – 11:30 am). More information in a later update.
Ministry Opportunities:
· Intercessory Prayer: Several of us have been stirred up recently to ask the question – ‘How do we undergird the mission and ministry of CtR through intercessory prayer?’. Carolyn Jenkins will be seeking to gather some folks in the next few weeks to address that question on behalf of the community as a whole. Look for a notice about an initial gathering shortly.
· Pre-Evangelistic, Conversational Coffee House: Several people have been stirred up to think about creating and hosting a ‘conversational coffee house’ as a way to connect with those who are seeking God. Jim Lingenfelter will be gathering a group shortly to discuss, dream, and pray about this venture. Look for a notice for an initial gathering shortly.
Discipleship Opportunity:
· ‘Believing God’ a new Beth Moore Study begins next Thursday morning (Feb.11: 9:30-11:30 am).
Much is happening. Please pray for all of the above, and, for God’s wisdom and stirring concerning your own involvement in them.
Have a great prompt-filled week!
Brian
Winter Conference Week
01/25/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
This update comes out early this week due to the upcoming Winter Conference in Greensboro NC. I leave tomorrow Tuesday) as the pre-conference meetings start bright and early Wednesday morning, and return late Saturday. Please pray for the Spirit's anointing of all those who attend but especially of those who lead. I look forward to reporting back to you all on Sunday.
Can I also draw your attention to two developmental meetings scheduled for next Sunday, January 31 immediately after the worship service:
Next Steps in the Development of our Web Site:
If you have any interest in and passion for how we get the most our of our web site- both as a means of discipleship AND for mission - then I encourage you to join the discussion. We will meet in the Parish Hall. If you cannot attend the meeting but have some interest in the task, please contact Bruce Tunno and tell him!
Hospitality and Sunday morning Ministries:
One of the priorities of 2010 is for us to streamline our Sunday morning ministries in such a way that we involve more people and share more equitably in the 'work of the saints'. Kathy Nelson and Jill Branch will present a working proposal, that with input from others, will become the basis for our 'Every Member Visit' scheduled in February/March. This group will meet in the large Sunday School class.
If you have interest in both discussions, I encourage you to 'go' with your strongest passion (But let the other group know of your interest).
As a Follow-up to yesterday's Children's Ministry meeting, the next scheduled gathering is set for Sunday February 21 immediately after worship. Some folks will be reporting back on possible VBS curriculum and how this material might be woven into our Summer Children's Sunday program as well. If you have a passion to see our ministry with and to our children (and their families) grow and thrive in 2010, I encourage you to book the date and come participate in the discussion.
Finally, can I ask for your prayers for Keith Waterman this week. The funding for Art Therapists in Newport News was slashed recently and Keith has been laid off. He has several interviews scheduled this week (some today!) and would appreciate your prayers throughout the process.
Have a great week, and remember: By the grace of God we CAN 'Choose life'!
Brian
This Week at CtR
01/14/2010
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
The Apostle Paul exhorts us to 'rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep' and we seem to have opportunities to do both this week:
First, we rejoice with those involved in our International Student Ministry. Last Saturday night we had nearly 100 international students (and American helpers) in our space for our third 'Fun, Food & Friendship' event. The event was sponsored by GSF (Tab's ministry) who is well established in this work. Nearly 30 of the students are newly arrived (having come for the new term) and are eager for such relationships. Praise God for the turnout and the beginnings of relationships; Pray that these relationships, by God's grace, will bear fruit for the kingdom.
Second, we 'weep' with those who have been devastated by the earthquake in Haiti. If you are looking for a way of helping allow me to suggest two organizations: First, the Anglican Church of North America's 'Anglican Relief and Development Fund' is channelling much needed resources to the hardest hit areas (http://anglicanaid.net); Second, Compassion International has over 65,000 sponsored children in the country and a proven track record of utilizing funds well (http://compassion.com). I commend both of these organizations to you.
Third, if you are looking for a way of serving our children I invite you to a meeting after worship on Sunday January 24. Jane Duffey is inviting all those who are teaching Sunday School presently, or may be interested in teaching during the summer or be open to involvement in a summer children's/family outreach and discipleship program to come prepared to share and to pray for our future development. Contact Jane for further information.
Fourth, if you are looking for ways of connecting with others (and having some fun doing so!)in Christ the Redeemer I encourage you to sign up for our '4Supper Fellowship Ministry'. The concept is simple: you will be grouped with up to 8 others (couples and singles) and share a meal once/month for four months (rotating homes for the suppers). Pick up a registration form on Sunday and be sure to turn it in by January 24. Suppers will begin in February. Contact Jennifer Brown for further information.
Fifth, Please be in prayer for a number of things affecting our community:
- Bob Filer as he recovers from pneumonia
- Our search for a new 'Worship Leader' (please pass on any suggestions to any of the Council members)
- other appropriate and effective opportunities 'to connect with the disconnected' (akin to our International Student work; what ideas for 'connecting' is God stirring up within you or your group?)
Peace be with you all
Brian
Evensong Service TONIGHT
12/09/2009
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
Here’s what’s happening this week at CtR:
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 Evensong Prayer Service
· Tonight at 7:00 pm we gather for a quiet service of Prayer. If you are looking for a way to be ‘quiet’ before God this Advent season and/or to intercede for the church, then I encourage you to come tonight.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Third Sunday of Advent
Sunday promises to be a special day for CtR:
· We will welcome liturgically into membership several people on Sunday (always a special thing!)
· We also gather after the service for our ‘Annual General Meeting’. We’ll have a chance to reflect on 2009 and prepare for 2010; receive a financial report; and elect two new members of our Leadership Council. Please plan now on staying for the meeting and be in prayer for those who need to be prompted to accept the call to ‘leadership’ at this time.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 For Kids Christmas Party
· Thank you to all who volunteered to provide Christmas cookies for FOR KIDS Christmas Party taking place in our facility on December 17. If you did not sign up on Sunday and would like to provide a dozen or more ‘goodies’ for this event, please respond to this email.
CHRISTMAS EVE, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve Service
· We gather on Christmas eve at 5:00 pm for a family friendly service. Plan now on joining in on the fun and invite a friend to join you.
Pot Luck this Sunday!
12/03/2009
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
Here is what’s happening (and NOT happening) this week at CtR:
Saturday, December 5:
· ‘Food, Fun & Friendship’ event that was set for this Saturday has been postponed until January 9, 2010. ODU is in the midst of exams and the students requested the shift.
Sunday, December 6: Second Sunday of Advent
· We’ll enjoy our monthly Pot Luck Lunch immediately after worship. Plan on staying and bring something to share.
· During the lunch I will give a brief presentation on our ‘Revised Membership Covenant’ and then give us all an opportunity to break into specific discussion groups related to some of our need areas for involvement on Sunday mornings. If you have not yet found a place of involvement (whether you are a member or not!), this will be a great chance to explore some possibilities.
Wednesday, December 9: Evening Prayer Service
· We gather at 7:00 pm on Wednesday to pray for God’s blessing and guidance for our community. All are welcome and encouraged to come.
Sunday, December 13: Third Sunday of Advent
· Immediately after worship we will have our ‘Annual General Meeting’ where we will elect our new Council members and receive the financial and other reports for the past year. Please plan now on being present for the meeting and be in prayer for God’s direction and promptings.
Thursday, December 17: ‘For Kids’ Christmas Party
· Our next door neighbors, For Kids, has asked to use our facility for their annual Christmas party. There will be over 100 children (and their parents) and For Kids staff present that night for a dinner, games, music and a visit from Santa.
· We have been asked to provide some Christmas Cookies for the event (25 dozen pieces would suffice!). If you would like to help provide some of the ‘cookies’, please let me know via this email or sign up on Sunday.
Looking forward to worshiping with you on Sunday as we prepare ourselves to welcome our King.
Peace be with you all.
Brian
Pot Luck this Sunday!
12/03/2009
By Campbell, Brian
Dear Friends
Here is what’s happening (and NOT happening) this week at CtR:
Saturday, December 5:
· ‘Food, Fun & Friendship’ event that was set for this Saturday has been postponed until January 9, 2010. ODU is in the midst of exams and the students requested the shift.
Sunday, December 6: Second Sunday of Advent
· We’ll enjoy our monthly Pot Luck Lunch immediately after worship. Plan on staying and bring something to share.
· During the lunch I will give a brief presentation on our ‘Revised Membership Covenant’ and then give us all an opportunity to break into specific discussion groups related to some of our need areas for involvement on Sunday mornings. If you have not yet found a place of involvement (whether you are a member or not!), this will be a great chance to explore some possibilities.
Wednesday, December 9: Evening Prayer Service
· We gather at 7:00 pm on Wednesday to pray for God’s blessing and guidance for our community. All are welcome and encouraged to come.
Sunday, December 13: Third Sunday of Advent
· Immediately after worship we will have our ‘Annual General Meeting’ where we will elect our new Council members and receive the financial and other reports for the past year. Please plan now on being present for the meeting and be in prayer for God’s direction and promptings.
Thursday, December 17: ‘For Kids’ Christmas Party
· Our next door neighbors, For Kids, has asked to use our facility for their annual Christmas party. There will be over 100 children (and their parents) and For Kids staff present that night for a dinner, games, music and a visit from Santa.
· We have been asked to provide some Christmas Cookies for the event (25 dozen pieces would suffice!). If you would like to help provide some of the ‘cookies’, please let me know via this email or sign up on Sunday.
Looking forward to worshiping with you on Sunday as we prepare ourselves to welcome our King.
Peace be with you all.
Brian
This Week at CtR
11/28/2009
By Campbell, Brian
Hey Folks
I trust you had a great Thanksgiving with friends and family and are looking forward to a great new year (Advent begins on Sunday!). Can I ask for some help tomorrow (hoping that you will read this today!):
- We celebrate the First Sunday of Advent with the baptism of Christian James Branch. Please pray for young Christian and his family and plan on bringing something to share at the reception to follow.
- We also plan on beginning our Advent celebrations with the traditional lighting of the Advent Wreath. Could I ask for a renewed effort by all of us to arrive early for worship during this season (9:45 am is a good time to shoot for).
Peace
Brian
