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Calvary Life
Winter 2026 JANUARY · FEBRUARY · MARCH 3
Program Guide Your guide to the activities at Calvary Church this upcoming season.
Lent 10 Practicing The Season of Lent begins in February. Learn more about how we observe this time at Calvary Church. Our Holy Week & Easter service times can be found on the next page.
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Slide into a Volunteer Role
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An Update on Community Groups
This cold and dark time of year, is a great time to get out of the house and into a new serving gig.
Calvary Staff Member Joshua VanderLeest has a new role and he’s answering your questions!
17 Jerusalem Project Update
Get to know more about our current batch of pastoral residents.
Corner 18 Library Calvary’s Library team is offering ideas to help you dig deeper into the Bible in the New Year.
19 One Christmas, One World
Get a glimpse into how the International Ministry celebrated the Christmas season. Consider how you can join in this dynamic community.
20 Emergency Procedures
It’s the time of year where we can often see weather related cancellations. Learn more about how Calvary responds when things take a turn.
Outreach Week 14 Global In March we set aside time to focus on how we can engage with God’s work around the world. Find out more about this year’s plans as we get fired up to bring the Gospel to all people.
16 Facing Cancer in Community
Calvary volunteer leader, Bob Ham, shares how Calvary comes alongside those who have received a cancer diagnosis.
707 E Beltline Ave NE Grand Rapids MI 49525 Mailing Address: PO Box 1600 Grand Rapids MI 49501
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Ph (616) 956-9377 Fax (616) 956-9723 calvarygr.org CalvaryChurchGR calvarygr
JANUARY-MARCH 2026 PROGRAM GUIDE S U N D AY M O R N I N G S Worship & Prayer
9:00am Classes
Sunday Morning Worship Service Calvary Church Sanctuary 9:00 & 10:45am
Ambassadors | Chapel | A medium sized teaching-oriented class comprised of senior adults.
Both services are identical. Join us! All services are also streamed live at calvarygr.org. We are currently in a series on the Epistles of John.
Breathe | Room 255 | Does not meet on the 2nd Sunday of the month | A small teaching oriented community of women from all ages and stages focused on connecting, supporting and loving each other.
Calvary Church welcomes people of all abilities. Special accommodations including reserved seating and wheelchair assistance are available. Inclusive worship is encouraged for all - in the Sanctuary with additional spaces available for those with sensory sensitivities. Many hearing aids offer hearing assistance by selecting the t-coil setting on your device. You can take advantage of this feature on the main floor behind row 6 of the main seating area. For more information, please contact Zach Schmuck (zschmuck@ calvarygr.org) . Pre-Service Prayer 8:30-8:50am | Room 211B Come pray with the morning’s teaching pastor and other participants that God would bless our worship services. All are encouraged to join. Boiler Room Prayer 8:50-11:55am | Room 212 Pray over every aspect of the service as the Holy Spirit leads, assisted by a request sheet composed by staff. Open to all, come and go as able.
Adult Sunday Classes Adult Sunday classes are committed to engaging deeply with the Bible and authentic biblical community. The focus of each class is growing in God’s Word, care, prayer, and community. Visit a few of the classes to see where God may lead you. Questions? Contact Karen (kvanholstyn@ calvarygr.org) at ext. 5173.
Faith Builders | Room 260 | A medium sized teaching-oriented class of couples and singles 40’s-60’s. Family Tree | Room 251-253 | A medium sized multi-generational sermon discussion class focused on doing life together as we pray for one another and share what God is teaching us through the Sunday sermons. Growing in Relationships | Room 261 | Only meet 2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays | A large teaching-oriented class of married, single, and remarried adults. Horizons | Room 252-254 | A new class for singles and couples in their 20’s-40’s focused on community and spiritual growth. Come help us grow and shape this class while discussing the sermon each week. Children are welcome as needed. Young Marrieds | Room 264 | Designed to create community among newly married and engaged couples while learning to keep Christ at the center of the relationship. Meets 1st, 2nd & 3rd Sundays.
10:45am Classes Faith & Fellowship | Room 264| A medium sized sermon discussion class of all ages and life stages.
revival, member care, and ministry to others. We endeavor to glorify God locally and globally. Our teaching focuses on Biblical truth and application. Monthly social events allow friendships to grow in a relaxed setting.” Journey | Room 265 | A large teachingoriented class of all ages and life stages. Koinonia | Room 260 | A medium sized sermon discussion class of all ages and life stages who love Jesus. Legacy Builders | Room 106A | A small discussion style class of all ages and life stages that study the Bible inductively verse by verse. Sojourners | Room 252 | A medium sized teaching-oriented class comprised primarily of senior adults who are seeking to become more inter-generational.
Kids 9:00 & 10:45am (Nursery - Fourth Grade) Check-in: All children need to receive their nametags at the check-in area at the bottom of the stairs, then be escorted by a parent or guardian to the room number printed on their name tag. Inclusion is encouraged for children of varied abilities, K – 4th grade. If extra support is needed, an individualized Care Plan can be developed alongside our facilitator, Pamela Cook, (pcook@ calvarygr.org). Holiday Sundays: February 15 (Winter Break). On these Sundays, only nursery & preschool are available in Calvary Kids. We encourage families to worship together in the Sanctuary on these days.
Heirs Together | Chapel | We are a welcoming community of married, single, widowed, and divorced adults who love Biblical principles, prayer, missions,
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Students 5th-8th Grade: Sunday Class Unit 4: Medieval | Jan. 18-Feb. 1 Unit 5: Reformation | Feb. 15-Mar. 1 Unit 6: Modern | March 8, 22, Apr. 12 10:30am | Room 108 | $5 56 & 78 are hosting a joint Sunday class. This joint parent/student class is a supplement to our families and student’s full engagement in Sunday services. This year we are going to be walking through the topic of Church history, and taking a look at how we as the church have lived out the great commission over the last 2,000 years. Please register in advance at calvarygr.org/5678sunclass.
Adults Membership Class Sundays, January 11 – February 8 10:45am-12:00pm | Room 251-253 Register at: calvarygr.org/classes This five-session class will explore what Calvary Church believes and teaches. The class is open to anyone 12 years of age and older.
S U N D AY NIGHTS
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The Winter/Spring Semester begins January 4. There is no programming on February 15 (Winter Break Holiday Sunday).
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The Winter/Spring Semester will begin on January 7. There is no programming on February 18 (Winter Break).
Fifth-Sixth Grade (56) Wednesdays | 6:15-7:45 | Room 108 Register at calvarygr.org/56
The foundation of the Wednesday Night experience at Calvary is the Wednesday Fellowship Dinner (WFD). A hearty, healthy meal featuring a rotating entree, pizza or chicken nuggets, and a salad bar. More than just solving the equation of what you’ll have for dinner on a busy weeknight, WFD is a lowstakes opportunity to gather around the table with your church friends. It’s a casual time for community that you don’t have to organize or plan - just show up! Every week is a chance to meet someone new or deepen an existing relationship.
JOIN US! 4:30-6:30pm Gathering Place Cost: $7 $28 max per immediate family
High School Ministry 6:30pm-8:30pm | Room 208 (Entrance E)
Calvary Kids: Kids-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm | $10 per child
At HSM, our goal is to help students become ROOTED in a personal relationship with Jesus—so they can grow full of love, walk in truth, engage in meaningful community, and live fruitful lives wherever they go (Colossians 2:6–7, Philippians 1:9–11).
Children from birth through 4th grade are invited to join us on Wednesday evenings for our Kids-N-Action programming! It is our desire that children understand what God says in the Bible, believe it, and put it into action in their daily lives. KNA is designed to foster social interaction through Bible stories, electives, and small groups while facilitating spiritual growth in learning how to put your faith into action! Register at calvarygr.org/kna.
We’re all about growing deeper in faith and having a ton of FUN along the way. Every Sunday night, we come together to play games, worship, hear a teaching, and have real conversations in small groups. After that, stick around for Overtime—an extra hangout time until 9:30pm to relax, connect, and build friendships.
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W E D N E S D AY N I G H T S
Come as you are—we’re excited to grow with you!
The $10 registration fee helps us offset the cost of some really fun things we will be giving away to your child! If cost is an issue, reach out to Annie Gillette (agillette@calvarygr.org) about scholarship opportunities.
We have large group worship, small group discussions, and free time activities all centered around our study of the Word. This framework along with engaging video skits and our loving leaders helps to create a space where students can feel known, loved, cared for, and trained up in truth as we gather together each week! Seventh-Eighth Grade (78) Wednesdays | 6:15-7:45 | Room 208 We kick off our nights early from 5:306:00pm for some game time in the gym, but our doors officially open at 6:15! We are studying the book of Revelation in our series, Revel. We hope to see you on Wednesdays! The Conversation - Jump in anytime! 6:30-7:15pm | Room 215 In The Conversation, our goal is to create a spontaneous community comprised of anyone who might walk into Calvary. Together we seek out scriptural truth, transparency in our lives, truth in repentance, and take time to just fully love on one another by the power of Jesus Christ our Lord! Questions? Contact Sara Blue (sblue@calvarygr.org). Intercessors / Prayer Chain 6:30-7:45pm | Room 212 Open to anyone interested in praying for Calvary Church, its congregation, pastors, staff, volunteers and programming. Meet to pray over requests emailed through week. Submit requests to Cindy (cmarrell@calvarygr.org). Unshackled Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm | Room 256 Unshackled is a weekly Bible study designed for men who are transitioning out of the jail/prison system and looking to build a firm, biblical foundation to help them grow and maintain their walk with Christ. Questions? Contact Lou DeGraaf (ldegraaf@calvarygr.org).
Wednesday Night Women’s Bible Study 6:30-7:45pm | $10 per semester | Contact women@calvarygr.org to register. While the children are in Kids-N-Action, moms and working women come together for growth in God’s Word, prayer, and community. Note: space is limited. Note: The same study is offered on Monday evenings for both men and women. Register for Monday evening at calvarygr.org/classes.
Short-Term Classes Using your Spiritual Gifts Wednesdays, January 7 – February 4 6:30-7:45pm | Room 251-253 Register at calvarygr.org/classes You have been given a special gift by the Holy Spirit in order to build up the church body! Come and discover your spiritual gift and how you can use it. In this course you will be equipped with a greater understanding of how spiritual gifts work in the church and the next steps to using your gifts for God’s glory. A Man & His Fatherhood Wednesdays, January 14 – February 25 6:30-7:45pm | Room 265 | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes A Man and His Fatherhood will help you think strategically about being a dad and help you prepare to launch healthy sons and daughters into the world. This study is part of the Authentic Manhood 33 series of six-week sessions that gives men a vision for manhood as modeled by Jesus in His 33 years on earth. You and Me Forever: Marriage in Light of Eternity Wednesdays, January 21 – March 18 6:30-7:45pm | Room 252 | $15 per book Register at calvarygr.org/classes Pursue a marriage that radiates God’s Glory. Prioritize your eternal relationship with your Creator above all – because only when two people are right with God will they be right with each other. Francis and Lisa Chan share insights on making courageous decisions based on devotion to Jesus.
A Man & His Design Wednesdays, March 4 – April 22 6:30-7:45pm | Room 265 | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes There are so many voices out there that are telling men what it means to be a man. Discover God’s design. A Man and His Design is part of the Authentic Manhood 33 series of six-week sessions that gives men a vision for manhood as modeled by Jesus in His 33 years on earth. Membership Class Wednesdays, February 25 – March 25 6:30-7:45pm | Room 251-253 Register at: calvarygr.org/classes This five-session class will explore what Calvary Church believes and teaches. The class is open to anyone 12 years of age and older.
KIDS & STUDENTS Calvary Kids
Birth-Fourth Grade Contact: Annie Gillette agillette@calvarygr.org
Parent Workshop March 19 | 7:00-8:30pm Join us for a practical and encouraging evening on the importance of spiritual formation in your child’s daily life. Take part in workshops and insights from multiple speakers, all designed to help you build meaningful faith rhythms at home. Register online by March 11 at calvarygr. org/ckworkshop. If you have any questions please email Annie Gillette, Calvary Kids Ministry Assistant.
All Students
Fifth-Twelfth Grade Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org
Students Rockin’ New Year Friday, January 9 | 6:30-8:30pm | Free Meet & Pick Up: Room 208 | Entrance D Register: calvarygr.org/newyear by Jan 2 Get ready for Student’s Rockin’ New Year, a night of pure entertainment, a dazzling mix of talent show and skit night! Expect jaw-dropping performances, hilarious skits, and of course, those fancy snacks you crave. We’re talking a New Year’s bash, even if it’s a little late, that’ll have you buzzing with excitement! Come dressed in your Hollywood glam!
Kids-N-Action Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm
Fifth & Sixth
See page 4.
Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org
Fifth-Sixth Grade
Paint Party January 16 | 6:00-7:30pm | Room 208 Cost: $20 per family
56: Wednesday Nights Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm
Come join us for a break from the monotony of the gray outdoors to brighten up the world through guided painting! We will have snacks and a painting activity full of colors and fun. Register at calvarygr.org/ckpaint.
Laser Tag Night February 13 | 6:30-8:30pm | $10 Meet & Pick Up: Room 108 (Entrance F)
Winterfest February 21 | 9:30am-12:00pm | Room 208 Cost: $20 per family We may not be able to bring the sunshine to Michigan, but we can give a warm smile and a hot cup of coffee! Take a break from the winter cold and join us for a morning of fun. Bring your whole family out for games, inflatables, snacks, and of course, coffee! Register at calvarygr.org/winterfest by Feb. 19.
See page 4 for details.
In this high-octane interstellar showdown, you’ll be transported to a futuristic battlefield where laser fire illuminates the darkness. Navigate through a labyrinth of obstacles, strategically outmaneuver your opponents, and unleash a barrage of laser blasts to emerge victorious. Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping adventure that will test your reflexes, coordination, and marksmanship. Join the ranks of elite space soldiers and conquer the galaxy, one laser tag battle at a time.Register at calvarygr.org/lasertag.
Pajama Movie Night March 13 | 6:30-8:30pm | Free Meet & Pick Up: Room 108 (Entrance F) Register at calvarygr.org/56movie
High School
Lights, camera, action! Get ready for a night at the pictures, darlings, a cinematic spectacle that’ll transport you to another era! Join us on March 13 at 6:30 for a screening of a hand picked film, a true classic of the silver screen. We’ll have popcorn, of course, and all the trimmings, so you can settle in and enjoy the show like a true Hollywood star. It’s gonna be a swell evening of entertainment, so don’t be a wet blanket, just bring a dry one with your pajamas – be there or be square!
HSM Sunday Nights Sundays | 6:30-8:30pm | Room 208
Seventh & Eighth Seventh-Eighth Grade Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org
78: Wednesday Nights Wednesdays | 6:30-7:45pm See page 4 for details. Winter Retreat (with High School) February 6-8 | Grace Adventures | $155 Experience the joys of winter with friends on our Winter Blast Retreat at Grace Adventures! Relax around the fire with a board game, ride a horse through snowy wooded trails, fly down the tubing hill, or tackle laser tag or the climbing wall with friends. Take a break from the normal rhythms to come rest and deepen relationships with friends, hear from awesome speakers, and worship in community. Spots are limited, sign up soon! Register at calvarygr.org/78retreat. Movie Night Friday, March 13 | 6:30-8:30 | Cost: Free Meet & Pick Up: Room 208 | Entrance D Register at calvarygr.org/78movie. Critics’ choice alert! The 7th and 8th Grade Movie Night is set to deliver a cinematic experience worthy of a standing ovation. We’re hosting a carefully curated film, designed to captivate and entertain even the most discerning young cinephiles. Expect the perfect pairing of buttery popcorn and delectable snacks, enhancing every scene. This is not just a movie night, it’s a cultural event, a masterclass in cinematic enjoyment. Don’t miss this limited engagement!
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9th-12th Grade
Contact: Darcy Walukonis dwalukonis@calvarygr.org
See page 4. HSM Retreat (With 7th & 8th) February 6-8 | Grace Adventures | $155
Men and women come together for large group teaching and gender specific small group discussion of the lessons. Freedom in Christ Thursdays, January 8 – March 12 6:30-8:30pm + Saturday, February 21 from 9:00am-4:30pm Room 251-253 | $10 Register at calvarygr.org/classes
Experience the joys of winter with friends on our Winter Blast Retreat at Grace Adventures! Relax around the fire with a board game, ride a horse through snowy wooded trails, fly down the tubing hill, or tackle laser tag or the climbing wall with friends. Take a break from the normal rhythms to come rest and deepen relationships with friends, hear from awesome speakers, and worship in community! Spots are limited, so sign up soon. Register at calvarygr.org/hsmretreat.
Do you know how to walk in your Freedom in Christ? Are you experiencing a lack of joy, unforgiveness, depression, or lack of spiritual growth? Do you feel like you’re stuck in a cycle of sin-confess-sin-confess but never truly break free from road blocks? Are you struggling with knowing, believing and acting on the Truth of Scripture? Join us for this 10-session class to learn practical, proven ways to overcome by the power of prayer in Jesus name to address these issues your life.
Let HSM Cook March 27 | 5:30- 8:30pm | $10 Meet and Pick-up: Room 208 (Entrance D, E)
Forever Hope Adoptive & Foster Care
Put on your kiss the cook aprons, fire up the burners, shop for your ingredients and BAM! HSM is cookin’. Show off your skills in the kitchen by coming to our let HSM cook event. Teams will be given a meal to cook for their peers… and your special guest judges. You will be given a list of ingredients to shop for and make your best meal to compete for who will be the best HSM cook.
A D U LT S Contact: Karen VanHolstyn (kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org
All Adults Monday Night Bible Study - Spring Semester January 5-May 4 | 7:00-8:30pm Gathering Place | $10 per semster Register at calvarygr.org/classes Join us as we start a new study book in the Gospel of John, chapters 10-21. An eyewitness and disciple of Jesus, John wrote this account that looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not. Join us as we discover who Jesus is through amazing signs and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to the world!
Contact: Lou DeGraaf ldegraaf@calvarygr.org
Adoptive & Foster Moms Book Study Jan. 14, Feb. 11, Mar. 11 | | 6:30-7:45pm Calvary Kids Family Room (139) Join other adoptive/foster moms for inspiring discussions. We will be reading Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become Like Him. Do as he Did by John Mark Comer. Questions: contact Sheri Schmidt (sschmidt@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5524.
Men
Contact: Jessica Henkaline jhenkaline@calvarygr.org
Men at Noon Tuesdays | 12:00pm | Zoom This group of men meet weekly throughout the whole year to do an inductive Bible study. Contact Russ (menatnoon@calvarygr.org) for details. Men of 6:10 Wednesdays | 6:00-7:30am | Room 265 Inductive study of the book of Ezekiel meets on Wednesdays. Contact Earl (menof610@calvarygr.org) for more info.
Men of 7:24 Saturdays | 8:00-9:00am | Room 265 Journey through the Bible to discover what God is saying and to grow and mature as an active disciple of Christ Jesus. Contact Denny (menof724@ calvarygr.org) for more information. Men of Prayer Third Tuesday | 6:30-7:30am | Room 253 We need prayer warriors now more than ever! Join the praying men of Calvary church for a one-hour prayer meeting on the third Tuesday of the month. There will be a brief devotional, worship, and a time of inviting the Lord’s presence in united prayer. Coffee will be available and you will be out by 7:30am. Men’s Futsal Pickup Thursdays | 7:00-9:00pm | Room 208 (Gym) Would you like the opportunity to play this fun and exciting game? Join us at Calvary for Thursday night pickup Futsal! Futsal is 5 on 5 indoor soccer played on a hard pitch. It is a fast-paced game with lots of opportunities to sub in and out with other players. You can drop in for a half hour or stay for the whole night. Students age 16+ are welcome with a parent. Contact: Eddie (futsal@calvarygr.org). Men’s Breakfast January 10 | 8:00-9:30am | Room 208 | $5 Kick off the new year right with men’s breakfast! We will be diving into the life of David as God makes him King of Israel. What is God calling you to in this new year? What promises are you waiting for Him to fulfill? Join us for a morning of worship, fellowship, and encouragement as we talk about these topics and more. As always, breakfast is just $5, so grab a friend and sign up at calvarygr.org/men. Sportsman’s Banquet January 24 | 5-8pm | $30 Gathering Place We are excited to host our 5th annual Calvary Sportsman’s Banquet! This year’s theme is Experience the Catch of a Lifetime. We will be welcoming keynote speaker and owner of Lake Effect Lure Company, Matt Goehler. Just ten years ago, as an atheist, he was wrestling with despair, moments from taking his own life—a miraculous moment where he found true life and his world was forever
changed. Bring a friend and prepare to be encouraged and amazed by his story. This event is fun for the whole family, featuring a delicious gourmet meal, games, fellowship and more. Your admission will come with 10 tickets for our free raffle and 1 grand prize ticket that could take you to Canada for a week of fishing or win a new gun or bow! Register at calvarygr.org/men. This event will sell out, so don’t wait.
sincerity in repentance, and faith in God. Come join us as we learn about worship and repentance from the life of David. Register at calvarygr.org/men.
Men’s Breakfast February 14 | 8:00-9:30am | Room 208 | $5
Oasis has the wonderful privilege to journey through the book of John. To recapture and reexplore our first love, Jesus, and to deepen our abiding faith in Him. So, come, see, know, and believe, Jesus, our Messiah! This is a great time of fellowship, worship and Bible study. No registration needed.
You do not want to miss this special Men’s Breakfast Valentine’s Day edition! We will be spicing things up with a special panel discussion to talk about Sex. Let’s face it, this is a topic that we don’t talk about enough. We are taking the bull by the horns and tackling how to stay pure in a post-moral society, as well as what healthy married sex should look like. Josh VanderLeest will be moderating our panel which will be comprised of Clare DeGraaf, Tom Olsson, and Mike Reiffer. Join the conversation by submitting your questions to calvarygr.org/survey. Register today at calvarygr.org/men. As always, breakfast is just $5, so grab a friend and sign up now. Calvary Date Night February 27 | 6:30-8:30pm Gathering Place | $50 Back by popular demand, Calvary Date Night is coming in hot! We will have the lights down low, and the atmosphere just right for an amazing evening with your beloved. Men, this is your chance! Bring your spouse or fiancé to Calvary Date Night. We are going to share a gourmet meal, some fun activities, and and an encouraging devotional from Tom and Jen Olsson!. This is an opportunity to reestablish the importance of date night! Register at calvarygr.org/datenight. This event is for engaged & married couples. Men’s Breakfast March 14 | 8:00-9:30am | Room 208 | $5 David was the most prolific King in Israels history. He was also the author of half of the Psalms. He would be the modernday equivalent of grammy award winning artist and billionaire head of state! But he was known for his heart of worship, his
OASIS (60+) Contact: Carla Julien cjulien@calvarygr.org
Oasis Bible Study Wednesdays | 9:45-11:00am Gathering Place
Oasis Chili & Games January 31 | 11:00am | Room 108 Bring your favorite board game and soup or appetizer. This will be a great time of food, fun and fellowship. R.S.V.P to Carla (cjulien@calvarygr.org). Oasis Luncheon February 9 | 10:00am-12:00pm | $14 Gathering Place Join us for a special time as several of our Oasis friends share highlights from their travels with Calvary Church tracing the Missionary Journeys of the Apostle Paul through Turkey and Greece. During our time together, they will relive Paul’s accomplishments and struggles through the leading of God’s spirit to bring to the Gentiles the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through their stories we’ll be reminded of Paul’s sacrifice, and what this experience spiritually meant to each of them. Register at calvarygr.org/oasis by February 2. Navigating the Senior Care Maze March 23 | 10:00am-12:30pm | $14 Gathering Place Crossroads Eldercare Options is one of the leading services offering hope to seniors and their caregivers by personalizing the search for long-term care, through expert counseling on the clinical, financial, legal, and senior housing aspects of eldercare planning that are critical when making important decisions. We look forward to their being with us to help us navigate the Senior
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Care Maze. This seminar is specifically targeted for those 40+ and should be attended by seniors, caregivers, and those who will one day be responsible for the care of their aging parents. A delicious lunch will be served. Register by March 15 at calvarygr.org/oasis.
OASIS Singles (60+) Contact: Gladys Ramsey oasissingles@calvarygr.org
Oasis (60+) Singles Sunday Lunch Meet for a tasty lunch and good fellowship right after the second church service. Cost of lunch will be on your own. R.S.V.P. to Gladys. January 4 | 12:30-2:00pm Morning Belle (1600 E Beltline Ave NE) February 1 | 12:30-2:30pm Woodland Mall Food Court March 1 | 12:30-2:30pm Sheshco Oasis (60+) Singles Dinner & Movie January 24 | 5:30-8:30pm | Room 208 | $10 Join us for an evening from the past while we enjoy an “old movie” on a large screen and feast on pizza and salad. R.S.V.P. to Gladys by January 21. Oasis (60+) Singles Super Bowl Party February 8 | 6:00-10:00pm | Room 251 Bring your favorite snack to share and beverage of your choice. R.S.V.P. to Gladys by February 5. Oasis (60+) Singles Comedy Night March 21 | 5:30-9:00pm | $10 Come and enjoy a great time of laughter and a nice meal together. R.S.V.P. to Gladys by March 18.
Widows & Widowers
Contact: Lynnell Bok (lbok@calvarygr.org)
Galentine Luncheon for All Single Women February 1 | 1:00-3:00pm Gathering Place | Cost: $10 Whether you’re Divorced, Widowed or have been single your whole life, this special Galentine Luncheon is just for you and we would love to have you! Please join us for a very special day that the Lord made just for us single ladies for a time of fellowship and laughter as we hear what our guest speaker, Mary Ann Oatis has to share with us. “Don’t shine
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so that others can see you, but shine so others can see Him” Register at calvarygr.org/galentine or contact Lynnell (lbok@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5520 by January 23. Widows Coffee March 21 | 9:30 – 11:30am | Room 208 | $5 Topic: Healthy Living RSVP online at calvarygr.org/widows or to Lynnell (lbok@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5520 by March 13
Women
Contact: women@calvarygr.org
Tuesday Morning Women’s Bible Study Second Semester Begins January 6 9:15-11:15am | $10 per semester Contact women@calvarygr.org to register. Join us as we start a new study book in the Gospel of John, chapters 10-21. An eyewitness and disciple of Jesus, John wrote this account that looks into eternity to grasp the spiritual meaning of the events and words of Jesus in a way that the other three gospels do not. Join us as we discover who Jesus is through amazing signs and testimonies of God’s faithfulness to the world!
take the first step. Blessed2Bless gatherings are for prayer and encouragement as we continue to reach out. Embrace: Women Embracing Motherhood Together First, Third & Fifth Thursdays 9:00-11:15am | Gathering Place Embrace is a warm community where faith is strengthened through friendships, mentoring and sound teaching for Moms with babies and young children. The Embrace theme this year is Shalom – “Peace I leave you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) We would love to have you join us for fellowship, mentoring, devotions, breakfast and insightful speakers. While you are enjoying a time with other Moms, your children will be lovingly cared for in our Embrace Kids nursery. Children must be registered in order to take advantage of this opportunity. Questions? Email embrace@calvarygr.org. Homeschool Moms First Fridays, Beginning October 3 9:30-11:30 | Room 139
You will be placed in a small group where you will discuss the lessons and then come together as a large group in the Gathering Place for teaching. Throughout the year we will have optional small group socials and opportunities for “Table Talks” as well.
Calvary’s Homeschool Moms meet once a month for a time of prayer and building community. We invite you to join us on the first Friday of the month, October through May. Children are welcome and we provide care, activities and a place for studying. For additional questions, contact Andrea(areiffer@calvarygr.org) or women@calvarygr.org.
Tuesday Kids is a wonderful place for children ages birth to six years old. Moms must be in attendance at Bible Study at Calvary while children are in the class.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Second & Fourth Thursdays 10:00am-12:00pm | Room 215 (Entrance C)
For a virtual option, contact women@ calvarygr.org for availability. Wednesday Night Women’s Bible Study See page 5. Blessed2Bless Prayer Wednesday, January 21 | 11:15am-12:15pm Monday, March 16 | 11:30am-12:30pm Room 215 (Entrance C) As we continue to step out in faith into our neighborhoods, workplaces and friend groups with simple Bible studies (Women’s Ministry has these resources), you may need encouragement to carry on or maybe God has been prompting you to
Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting? We would love to have you serve with us in the Prayer Shawl Ministry. We meet the twice a month for a time of prayer, devotions and fellowship while creating prayer shawls. Join us in person or work from home; we supply yarn and patterns.
Young Adults
College & Career (Ages 18-30) Contact: Abby Nuenke anuenke@calvarygr.org
Tuesday Nights Tuesdays | 7:30-9:00pm | Room 208 (Entrances D & E) We exist to help Young Adults know God and actively live out their faith where they live, work, and play. So, come encounter Jesus in a community of young adults through worship music, teaching, testimony, and friendship. Doors open at 7:00. For updated information on events and other happenings at YA, head to our linktree: https://linktr.ee/ya.calvarygr. Cannonsburg Tubing January 30 | 6:00-9:00pm | $15 Cannonsburg Ski Area Registration Required by January 27 at calvarygr.org/yatubing Calling all outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers! Join us for an epic snow tubing night with all your friends from Young Adults! Whether you’re a snow pro or a first-timer, this is your chance to hit the slopes, enjoy the winter wonderland, and make unforgettable memories. Join us after in the Cedar Lodge for a cozy hot chocolate party to warm you up! Winter Sports Day February 21 | 1:00-4:00pm | BYO Money Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park Hey, young adults! We’re heading out to Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park for a day all about getting outside and embracing winter! Spend the afternoon with us and choose your own adventure—skate through the woods, snowshoe the dunes, or cross-country ski the trails. Bring your friends and try one or try them all! Stick around for bonfire time and hot cocoa to warm up and wind down by the fire. Serving Event Saturday, March 21 | 9:00am -1:00pm Meet: TBD We have an opportunity to step outside our usual rhythm and step into service together! We’re hoping to partner with ministries across Calvary to meet a variety of practical needs—yard work, fixing, cleaning, building, painting, and more. Our heart is simply to serve our brothers and sisters here at Calvary in tangible, meaningful ways. Plan on joining us at Raising Cane’s after.
CARE & SUPPORT GROUPS Contact: Christie Thompson cthompson@calvarygr.org
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings Sundays – Women’s Stag 5:00-6:00pm | Room 112 (Entrance G) Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 7:30-8:30pm | Rm 112 (Entrance G) Monday-Friday 12:00-1:00pm | Rm 112 (Entrance G) Al-Anon Thursdays | 7:30-8:30pm | Room 110 (Entrance G) Tuesday Women’s Meeting 7:00-8:00pm | Room 114 (Entrance G)
P R AY E R Contact: Cindy Marrell (cmarrell@calvarygr.org)
Elder Prayer First Tuesday | 6:15-7:15pm Contact: Cindy Marrell at ext. 5997 Are you seeking healing? Do you need others to come alongside you right now? Experience the encouraging power of prayer with the Elders. Schedule a time and let us come before the Lord with you in this season. High School Parents Prayer First & Third Sundays (September-May) 5:15-6:15pm | Room 207 (Just show up!) Starts with the HSM team sharing what they see God doing in the youth group as well as prayer requests, then lifting those before the throne of our gracious God.
Al-Anon is a program of recovery for the families and friends of alcoholics, whether or not the alcoholic recognizes the existence of a drinking problem or seeks help.
Jerusalem Project Monthly Prayer Second Sunday | 10:20-10:40am | Room 110 Pray for the Jerusalem Project. Sign up for our monthly prayer email, contact: jp.prayer@calvarygr.org.
Avenue Help for men who are struggling with pornography and/or sexual brokenness. Contact avenue@calvarygr.org.
Pastors’ Prayer Partners Sundays | One Service Monthly
Hannah’s Heart Support for those grieving a miscarriage or the loss of an infant. Contact: hannahsheart@calvarygr.org Mental Illness Support Group Second Thursday | 6:30-8:00pm | Rm 255 If you are caring for a loved one with mental illness, this support group is designed to give you encouragement, training and fellowship with others walking a similar journey. Contact mentalhealth@ calvarygr.org with questions. Our Journey of Hope Cancer Care One-on-one support ministry partnering cancer patients with trained Cancer Care Volunteers who will walk alongside them to provide hope and encouragement on their cancer journey.
Receive weekly updates from the Pastoral Staff via email or postal mail. Your role is to pray with a team of prayer warriors during one service a month and pray in your own home regularly. Prayer For the Persecuted Church Fourth Sunday | 10:15-10:40am | Room 110 Pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering for their faith. Register for our prayer list by emailing a request to prayerforpersecuted@calvarygr.org. Third Monday Missionary Prayer Third Monday | 11:30am-12:30pm | Rm 255 Join us to hear updates and pray for our missionaries around the world. Saturday Night Prayer Team Contact: Amber Koster (satnightprayer@ calvarygr.org) Team members pray on their own for a half-hour shift from 8:00pm-8:00am every Saturday night with a minimum one-year commitment. Participants specifically pray for Pastor Jim, his family, and all aspects of the Sunday services. Prayer guides and the order of service are provided.
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Practicing Lent Purpose of Lent Lent is a season in the Church Calendar, beginning on Ash Wednesday (this year February 18) and concluding with the celebration of Jesus’s resurrection on Easter Sunday, that offers opportunity for us to reorder our spiritual lives. Too easily we forget God as our Maker and Redeemer, replacing Him with things and ambition (Robert E. Webber). Lent is a time to return to the basics, to orient ourselves around the spiritual realities of life. Lent is a spiritual pilgrimage, a journey wherein we choose to die with Christ and be buried with Him, so we can be raised in the resurrection of new life.
Lenten Disciplines At Calvary, the season of Lent is a time to develop or return to intentional spiritual rhythms as you prepare to celebrate Easter. Each week the congregation is invited to focus on developing in the disciplines of prayer, meditation, fasting and giving.
Prayer During Lent, we set aside extra time to pray. Our hope is that by taking this intentional step as a congregation in this season, we will come to Easter having developed or deepened a habit of prayer. For it is through prayer that God transforms our lives, it is an avenue through which His character is made evident in us.
Fasting Lent is a time for self-examination and contemplation. To facilitate this, Christians often set aside certain foods or non-essential activities. Fasting is not meant to be deprivation or a means of earning grace. Rather, fasting is meant to provide spiritual focus. By setting aside something that is normally a part of your daily life, you are creating space for God. As you voluntarily deny yourself, you are reminded of Jesus as the source of your true sustenance. Fasting is not limited to food (though many people may choose a meal or specific food group from which to fast). Abstaining from certain practices can help us loosen the grip that unhealthy appetites and destructive addictions have on our lives. You may consider fasting from buying books, wearing makeup, listening to the radio /podcasts or eating processed foods. To abstain from these things, things that are not in and of themselves bad, helps us resist subtle idolatry and refocus our lives on God. On Sundays, we set aside our fast as we spend time gathered as a church, feasting in the presence of the Lord.
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Giving During the season of Lent we are spending extended time in prayer. As part of this practice we seek to know how God would have us deepen our giving. Consider ways that you can express your faith by following Jesus’s example of sacrifice both in His life and ultimately in His death. As a church we use this season in the church calendar to focus on the Jonathan Fund. This is our church’s fund set aside to encourage those who are suffering. Consider giving to this fund or finding other ways to encourage those who are suffering that they may persevere through trial. Learn more at calvarygr.org/give.
Advice for Practicing Lent Take it slow and simple. If this is your first introduction to the spiritual disciplines, consider just beginning with prayer and fasting. Don’t get overwhelmed with adding on all the things at one time. Pick one discipline and develop that habit before moving forward. Don’t be afraid to try again tomorrow. Accept that the Lord’s mercies are new every day and don’t allow yourself to get discouraged if you miss a step along the way. Find a community to practice Lent with. Whether it’s a group of co-workers, friends you eat lunch with at school, or your own family—Lent is a great opportunity to encourage one another in your walk with Jesus. Tell a friend what disciplines the Lord is highlighting for you to pursue, and consider asking them to hold you accountable to continue in that practice. While the practice of fasting is very personal, it’s helpful to know that we’re doing this together as a church community. Baptism In the early centuries of the church, the forty days before Easter came to be recognized as the season of Lent (a Latin word that means “spring”), when new converts were prepared for baptism. This preparation included biblical instruction, prayer, repentance and fasting. In time, the practices of Lent were embraced by the entire church. We continue to mark this season by celebrating baptism during our Easter services. If you are ready to make a public proclamation of your faith in Jesus, to publicly turn your back on sin and take on the new life of Jesus, consider being baptized. Contact baptismdeacon@calvarygr.org to sign up, or receive more information about baptism at Calvary Church.
HolyWeek PALM SUNDAY | MARCH 29 SERVICES: 9:00 & 10:45AM WORSHIP NIGHT: 6:00PM
SLIDE
Join us for a fresh and powerful evening of worship designed to set our hearts and minds on things above, as we enter into Holy Week.
into a Volunteer Role
PRAYER & REFLECTION GUIDED EXPERIENCE IN THE CHAPEL MONDAY- THURSDAY: 7:00AM-9:00PM, FRIDAY: 5:00AM-7:00PM
Michigan’s cold season is a perfect time to stay busy and avoid the mid-winter blues. Calvary Church has just the solution if you are considering how you can love the Lord and your neighbor. As a body of believers, we all have been given unique spiritual gifts. These come in the form of supernatural empowerment from the Holy Spirit, and we are called by God to use them to build up the church and glorify our heavenly Father in heaven. Some are called to teach, others are gifted in encouragement or mercy, and yet others are called to serve, just to name a few. What does it look like for you to step into a volunteer role at Calvary Church that God has designed just for you in this season?
All regular programming is suspended during Holy Week. Ministries will instead create a guided experience, centered around the prayers of Jesus, to give you time and space to reflect on Jesus’s life and death throughout the week.
MAUNDY THURSDAY |APRIL 2 SEDER MEAL: 6:00PM Experience the last supper as Jesus did with His disciples in the Upper Room. Attendance is limited, please register at calvarygr.org/seder.
GOOD FRIDAY | APRIL 3 SERVICE: 7:00PM An evening of reflection that commemorates the night when Christ bore the ultimate burden for us and was crucified in order to give us peace with God.
Easter
Easter is the biggest Sunday of the year as we celebrate Christ’s resurrection victory over sin, fear and death and the peace and new life we can find in Him today. In this special worship service we'll witness God's transformation power in baptism, sing anthems of praise and proclaim the mighty Word of God. This is a great opportunity to invite people to experience the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit alongside you.
BREAKFAST: 8:00-10:00AM
Enjoy a delicious, light breakfast in the Gathering Place.
CALVARY KIDS
Children's programming is available for birth to preschool at the 9:00 & 10:45am service.
I would encourage you to ask the Lord what He wants from you and how you should respond to His call. Our God is good and faithful, and He will definitely answer if you seek His will. If you would like to further explore your spiritual gifting, we have a wonderful resource Neil Kassuba available called the Spiritual Gift Survey that Facilitator, helps identify how God has designed you for Serving Ministry His purpose and His glory. I am also always available to talk and get to know you better, hear your story of faith and be an encouragement as you walk in the light of our Savior. Should you have already identified the area that you would like to serve at Calvary, completing a volunteer application is the first step in making your intent official. Visit calvarygr.org/volunteerapp or scan this QR code to access the application. If you need further assistance, it would be a blessing for me to help. You can contact me, Neil Kassuba – Facilitator, Serving Ministry at 616-956-9377 or nkassuba@calvarygr.org.
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Prayer Ministry Volunteer Opportunity – Is Holy Week extra special to you? We’re looking for volunteers now to assist in planning the concept and preparing materials for three reflection stations. We also need help with set-up in late March and tear-down on April 4. Fill out the Volunteer App or contact Cindy Marrell (cmarrell@calvarygr.org) with questions.
See more volunteer opportunities on the next page. 11
Update
er te lun Vo () Opportunities
Calvary Kids – Come have an impact of raising up the next generation of faithful believers serving our children at Calvary Church ages birth through 10 years old. We are looking for room helpers to serve on Sundays during first or second service or Wednesday evenings with Kids in Action. Building/Office Support – Looking for a unique way for your family or small group to serve? Our campus facility blesses so many people with a clean, organized, and welcoming environment. Come adopt a room making sure it’s ready for the next meeting or ministry event. Communion Servers – Calvary is looking for individuals who would like to serve in the role of helping with our communion services. Duties include either preparation of the communion trays on Saturday mornings or being a communion server on Sunday. This is an incredible privilege to be apart of as we remember Jesus’ sacrifice for us while focusing on unity and fellowship in the church body. Training is provided and the schedule is flexible. Groundskeeping – We are always looking for individuals who want to maintain our beautiful grounds as we welcome guests. If you enjoy fresh air and working behind the scenes, consider a role on our snow removal team or assist with maintenance.
Ready to apply? Scan this QR code with your phone which links you to the MyCalvary login page for the volunteer application. It takes just a few 12 minutes to complete.
An on Community Groups If you haven’t yet heard, my role here at Calvary has recently changed! For the past three years, I’ve had the joy of serving as our Director of Hospitality, a position that has continually grown as we seek to make Calvary a truly welcoming place for everyone. In my new role as Director of Connections and Hospitality, I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue the hospitality work I love while also stepping into new areas, including overseeing Community Groups at Calvary. I’m deeply thankful for this opportunity and for the trust our leadership has placed in me. I’d like to share an update on our current plans for Community Groups. As I write this in early December, I’m prayerfully seeking the Lord’s direction and planning for the future of this ministry. Even during the discernment process for stepping into this role, the Lord has been so faithful. He has already given me both a passion and a vision for what lies ahead. Community Groups are one of the best ways we can actively live out the Christian life we see in Scripture in our very own communities. They are places where authentic relationships are formed. They are also spaces where the mission of Christ is lived out in a world that desperately needs Him. While I’m excited to share more in the coming months, for now I’d like to invite you to reflect on a few simple questions:
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Do I have deep, life-giving relationships with other brothers and sisters in Christ? Would I benefit from being in a smaller community where others can encourage me to fully live out my faith? Is God calling me to help lead others in community and mission? Do I simply want to learn more about Jesus in a smaller setting?
Or even,
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Do I want to have some fun with my fellow Calvary Church family?
If any of these questions resonate with you, I encourage you to consider joining a Community Group. Email jvanderleest@calvarygr.org, and we can talk one-on-one about where God might be leading you.
Free Access to +25,000 Bible Study Videos Every person at our church has free access to biblical video series for adults, youth, and kids. Start streaming today on your favorite device.
Get Free Access: Scan the QR code to create you free account and start browsing. Questions? Contact Karen VanHolstyn
(kvanholstyn@calvarygr.org) at (616) 956-5173
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THE G OS P E L FO R AL L PE O PL E S These excerpts from scripture show us that God desires the salvation of all people, and to accomplish this desire, he wants us to be involved in getting the gospel out to all peoples who have not yet heard it. What a privilege that God engages us, his church, to make him known among the peoples of the earth! This year’s Global Outreach Week will provide multiple opportunities for you to think about and explore how God might be leading you to engage with his plan of bringing the gospel to all peoples.
M O HA MAD AND T EIJA
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? Romans 10:14
Special Guests
We are looking forward to one of our own Global Partners coming to share with our Church on Sunday, March 8 during the morning services, as well as later that evening at Sending Gen Z (HSM and YA). It will be a privilege to have Mohamad and Teija along with their kids Sham and Amir with us in person. Mohamad has an amazing God story to tell us that will both encourage your faith and open your eyes to how God is moving. Mohamad grew up as the son of an Imam in a refugee camp in Aleppo, Syria and had a hatred toward all Christians. But God used his Word and some key people to draw Mohamad to himself. Now he is a gospel light to many others, just like him, who have fled from Muslim nations. They flock to his refugee center and find there the love of Christ displayed and the truth of the gospel proclaimed, and many are turning to faith and being baptized! In addition to his sharing on Sunday, you can also connect with Mohamad as he leads a workshop on engaging with Muslims on Thursday evening March 5, and at his table during our March 7 Global Adventures Fair. Hold these dates on your calendar and you will be glad you didn’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience what God has done and is doing through Mohamad and Teija.
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O PPO R TUN I TI E S
WORKSHOP
MA RCH 5 · 6 : 00- 8:00PM · ROOM 26 1 This workshop will allow Mohamad to help us understand the world view and thinking of Muslims as they as they encounter the gospel. He will draw from his own previous Muslim background, as well as his countless engagements sharing the gospel with Muslim refugees, to encourage and equip us as we also have opportunities to interact with Muslims.
SENDING
Gen Z MARCH 8 · 6:30-8:30PM CALVARY CHURCH ROOM 208 Mohamad and Teija will be sharing about their unusual courtship and marriage and also have some amazing God stories to tell.
MARCH 7 · 10:30AM-2:30PM GATHERING PLACE Come and see how God is using 30+ organizations to take the gospel to all peoples! These organizations range from local ministries here in Grand Rapids, to those serving globally at the ends of the earth. You may even learn about how pilots and mechanics are crucial for carrying the gospel to some parts of the world. There will also be family-friendly activities, such an cultural performances, a dress-up photo booth, a passport to get filled in, and six international samples of street food for you to try out! Come and go at your leisure, but we ask that you register for this free event at calvarygr.org/fair. All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend.
This event is for high school students and young adults up to 28 years old! No need to register.
SUN MORNING
MARCH 8 9: 0 0 & 1 0 : 4 5A M
Refugees enjoying tea and hearing the gospel at the Friendship Project Center
Mohamad will share his riveting story of coming to faith and God leading him into ministry.
Outside of the Friendship Project Center
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Cancer
Facing in Community
“I am sorry, the tests show it is cancer.” These few words turn your world upside down. Priorities shift and are replaced by fear and uncertainty. Doctor visits and appointments now fill your days. You may feel lonely and isolated. If this is your story, or the story of a friend or loved one, take heart because you are not alone. God has promised “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). “Never” means not now, not ever. If you or a loved one is on a cancer journey, Calvary’s Cancer Care Ministry was created for you. Volunteer training for this ministry involves 14 hours of interactive seminars which include spiritual guidance, personal testimony, and time with clinical cancer specialists. Through these seminars we learn that there is hope, and there is help. Contributed by Bob Ham
Since 2024 our volunteers have walked alongside more than 40 “cancer friends”. We say “cancer friends” because deep and meaningful friendships are formed with those who are facing cancer.
“BE STRONG AND OF GOOD COURAGE: DO NOT BE AFRAID… THE LORD YOUR GOD IS WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO.”
“Time and conversations have profound impact and meaning. Being part of this ministry has brought new relationships from journeying with my cancer friends.” Steve Dickerson “What a blessing to walk beside my dear sister in Christ through the joys and sorrows of her cancer journey. It has deepened my own relationship with Jesus.” Lora Kleis “I am blessed to serve in this ministry. God has moved in my cancer friend’s life in so many ways. How wonderful to praise Him together. He is good!” Sharon Van Wieren “It is such a blessed privilege to walk with my new cancer friend on her cancer journey. We are both deepening our relationship with God as a result.” Beth Metz
JOSHUA 1:9
We do not replace your clinical cancer care team. Rather, we focus on 3 areas:
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Spiritual Encouragement: With shared prayer, Bible passages, and godly counsel we can help the cancer friend stay connected to Father God.
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Practical Helps: Our volunteers are able to point you to resources in Calvary Church and our community in areas of meal provision, housekeeping, transportation and more.
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Friendship: Companionship plays a vital role in recovery and attitude. We will meet you where you are by the means that you prefer whether personal visits, email, or phone calls and texts.
Cancer friends have shared with us:
Spiritual Encouragement
“Sharon’s support and compassionate visits were invaluable. She has become a cherished friend. Our conversations and shared strength blessed me greatly.” C.W.
Practical Resources
“The Cancer Care Ministry has been a lifesaver for me. They provided me with an absolutely wonderful volunteer. Lora stood beside me like a true friend.” K.M.
Friendship
If you or someone you know is on a cancer journey, or if you need more information about the Calvary Cancer Care Ministry, you can reach out to us through Calvary Care at (616) 956-5628.
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“Beth provided me with a file box containing Bible verses that carried me through some difficult times. Gentle yet firm counsel blessed me when I needed to get back on track.” M.S.
An Update From Our
Pastoral Residents The Pastoral Residency program is a two-year mentoring and ministry training program designed to prepare future church leaders.
for constant soul care.” Looking ahead to this new year, Gabe said, “I am excited to see what God has in store for after the residency and to maintain the beautiful relationships I have made here at Calvary.” Chick-fil-A or Raising Canes? Gabe: Chick-fil-A and it’s not even close We wanted to share a snippet of what our current residents—Gabriel Jorden, Luke Walsh, and Tanner VanOss—have been up to!
Gabriel Jorden In the program’s second year, the residents focus on a ministry at Calvary or a local, partner church. Gabriel’s placement is with Oasis—a Calvary ministry for senior adults—where he has helped launch Oasis@Home, offering prayer and support for individuals experiencing a health crisis. Gabe’s takeaway is that the residency has taught him two things: “the weight of a pastoral call but also the importance of creating margin
Luke Walsh Luke is ministering at Indwelling Community Church where he leads the Men’s Ministry, preaches on Sundays, and is helping establish staff policies. This past year has brought some memorable experiences, including a men’s retreat and a mission trip to Greece. Reflecting on the joint men’s retreat with Indwelling, Calvary, and New Heart, Luke thought it was powerful to be a part of God moving and changing people’s lives. On the mission trip to Glyfada, Greece, he learned “many good lessons about shepherding, spiritual warfare, God’s love for people, and obedience no matter the cost.”
What are you currently reading? Luke: The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer and The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Tanner VanOss God recently called Tanner VanOss and his family back to Michigan, after serving as missionaries in Asia for eight years. While the decision was one of this year’s biggest challenges, God also opened the door to the pastoral residency program. Looking back over the past few months, Tanner said, “A highlight has definitely been seeing God show up and speak to me in new areas and starting to use me in this new season.” This winter, Tanner is working with Missions and Outreach. “The Lord has burdened my heart for the global church, and I am looking forward to serving in this area!” Where would we find you when you’re not working? Tanner: Playing games with my kids or going for a walk in the woods. 17
Calvary Library
New Year, New Opportunities The New Year often brings thoughts of fresh starts, resolutions and new goals for the year ahead. Hopefully all of our lists include how we can grow in our understanding of who God is and grow closer to Him. One of the best ways we can do that is by spending time in His Word. The more we understand Scripture, its context and the big picture of the Gospel the stronger our faith and appreciation for who God is becomes. This New Year, you may be wanting to read the Bible more consistently, more deeply or with greater understanding. However the Lord is leading, our Calvary Library team wants to support and encourage you. Below are a few resources that may help you in this New Year to study the Bible more.
COMIN COMI N G IN 2026 The Calvary Church Art Committee will have a call for entries for artists from the congregation (for those who call Calvary home) to submit artwork for an exhibition at the Calvary Church Gallery reflecting on the current series about 1 John.
Reading Plans through Bible Gateway - Bible Gateway has a wide variety of different reading plans that can help you read the Bible in a different way. From straight through, to chronological to a focus on the gospels or Psalms to audio options there are many great options that could help you build a plan for your reading. If you are feeling like a reading plan may be something you want to try, we encourage you to pray and let the Spirit lead you to the plan that the Lord has for you this year. Bible Recap - The Bible Recap offers tools that are meant to help people read, understand and love the Bible. They have a chronological Bible reading plan that comes in several forms - book, podcast or video. Each day’s Bible reading is about 12 minutes long and the recap is around 8 minutes long. The Bible Recap also has a devotional for kids that families could do all together. If you are looking for something that is a bit shorter or more in depth - they offer a variety of studies on specific topics and New Testament books, including the book of John. Their study on the book of John is called - Knowing Jesus as God. It’s a 10-session study on the Gospel of John. Our library has many Bible Recap resources in multiple languages. If interested, please come by and check them out! Wherever God leads you this year, we pray that all of us will have a fruitful year of studying God’s word and growing to be more like Him.
The Calvary Library is staffed with volunteers on Sunday Mornings from 8:30am-12:30pm and on Wednesday Evenings from 6:30-8:30pm. However, the library is also open anytime the building is. You can visit the library anytime to study, read or check out books with our self checkout system.
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Register at calvarygr.org/men
MEN’S BREAKFAST
a candid discussion about sex and relationships
February 14 | 8:00am You do not want to miss this special Men’s Breakfast Valentine’s Day edition! We will be spicing things up with a special panel discussion on sex. We are tackling how to stay pure in a postmoral society, as well as discussing what healthy married sex should look like. Josh VanderLeest will be moderating our panel which will be comprised of Clare DeGraaf, Tom Olsson, and Mike Reiffer. More on our panel members is available when you register at calvarygr.org/men. Join the conversation by submitting your questions to calvarygr.org/survey. As always, breakfast is just $5, so grab a friend and sign up now.
In early December, Calvary's International Ministry hosted a joyful multicultural celebration titled “One Christmas, One World.” More than 100 people attended the event, representing a beautiful diversity of backgrounds—including Middle Eastern, Portuguese, Korean, Indonesian, Ukrainians, and Indian friends. The event welcomed both those who know Jesus and those who are still discovering who He is. The afternoon was supported by many dedicated volunteers and a wonderful team of high school girls who helped with hospitality, activities, and setup. We are grateful to all their support and dedication to serve. The program included delicious food, an international coffee station, a meaningful devotion focusing on the divine message of Jesus’s birth that is offered to all the nations. Our guests also enjoyed a talented chalk drawing artist who drew the nativity scene in a creative way, alongside music and multinational performances of “Silent Night." What a joy to hear the different languages all declaring God’s ultimate message of hope, peace, and unconditional love. We are reminded of Revelation 7:9, "After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb."
We ended the event with a festive Christmas cookie decorating time for families and children. “One Christmas, One World” was a powerful reminder that the message of Christmas invites every nation, every family, and every person to experience hope, joy, and unity in Christ. We are grateful for all who participated and look forward to hosting more events that celebrate God’s heart for the nations. If you would like to get connected to Calvary International Ministry, please contact Lana Duoibes (lduoibes@calvarygr.org), we are looking forward to getting to know you!
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Emergency Awareness WINTER SEVERE WEATHER ADVISORY
As we approach the winter season, it’s important to stay informed about potential weather-related closures due to snow and ice. Building Closures: If travel conditions pose a safety concern, Calvary may decide to close the building. Any closures will be posted on Calvary’s website. If you’ve signed up for text or email notifications, you may also receive updates directly to your mobile device from your ministry leader. Group Cancellations: Some groups may choose to cancel their programming even if the building remains open. These cancellations will also be posted on the Calvary website and communicated by the group leader. Safety First: Travel conditions can vary throughout West Michigan. If you feel that it is unsafe for you or your family to travel, even when the church is open, please prioritize your safety and stay home.
FIRE SAFETY
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If the fire alarm sounds, exit the building calmly and orderly. Family reunification will occur outside at designated locations.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
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Report all medical situations to the Emergency Response Team (ERT). Use Help Phones located throughout the facility for assistance.
SECURITY CONCERNS
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Report any suspicious activities to the Emergency Response Team (ERT). Help Phones are available throughout the facility for immediate reporting.