July 2015
The View
Special events
this month:

New Summer Sermon Series
9:15 & 11:00 AM

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
This Summer Get Ready!

When you go to the beach/
lake it is important that you
are READY.

You need a blanket, towel,
sun lotion, sunglasses, food
and a beach ball.
This summer we want to use our
Next Step Class time to get you
READY for life’s adventures!
The Next Step Classes are listed on Page 6
Sign up for one Today at parkviewfamily.com
Page 2
Student Ministries July Update!
Mission Trip
As many of you read this, a group of 27 adults and students are in Ensenada Mexico partnering with
Dios es Amor to build a house for a homeless family, doing service projects at the church and sharing Christ through a VBS & sports outreach. We would much appreciate your prayers for our trip
that we’re able to make an impact with the gospel for the Kingdom and that God would challenge
the members of the team to grow in their own faith.
Summer Activities
 REFUGE @ Strike-n-Spare – July 22nd – 7:00-9:00
All High School & Middle School students invited… Free bowling &
pizza

VBS @ the REFUGE –Upcoming 6th graders – July 26th-28th – 6:30-8:00
This is an exciting, special time for the new MS students to hang out
and connect with their new leaders for Wednesday night REFUGE
when school starts

Parent’s Open House @ the REFUGE – July 26th – 6:00-6:30
If you’re a parent of a student in middle of high school, you’ve gotta make it out to our an
nual parent’s night… It’s a night specifically for you to come out, meet the leaders who will
be working with your students this year, learn what we’ll be focusing on this year, & find out
how you can be involved more in your student’s spiritual growth…
You won’t want to miss it!
In Christ
Brent
Mission Statement
“Provide an opportunity to share God’s love
for those within our community who are in
need.”
When: 3rd Saturday in July
Where: Parkview’s East Refuge
How: ONLY through donations provided by
Parkview’s congregation.
Most Needed Donation Needs:
Soup, Canned fruit, Pasta & Pasta Sauce,
Cereal, Tuna/Meat
Parkview’s Attendance Record
YTD Small Group Average:
June Small Group Average:
YTD Worship Average:
June Worship Average:
183
123
279
256
Parkview’s Financial Report
(Figures as of 06/29/15))
YTD Ministry Fund Rec.:
251,690.50
YTD Min. Fund Needed:
262,464.52
Weekly Average Needed:
8,963.08
Weekly Average This Mo.:
9,436.46
YTD Ministry Fund Spent:
250,893.78
Building Fund Balance
953,609.37
Page 3
Core Value
Relational Evangelism
John & Karen
Swedberg,
Serving with Baptist MidsMission, Brazil, South Africa
Thank you for your continued part in the outreach in Brazil. Last Sunday twenty of us
distributed nearly 2,000 tracts
& invitations for the special
meetings we will have this Saturday & Sunday. We will be
celebrating the birthday of our
church during the conference.
It is a blessing to serve the
Lord together. My personal
blessing was my partner,
Stephanie. She is eight years
old. She would run ahead of me
and talk to people. I was
blessed to observe how attentive people were as they listened to her. She also warned
me about the uneven sidewalks
so I wouldn’t fall and she distracted dogs so I could put the
invitation in the mailbox if the
owner wasn’t around. The dogs
were all fenced in their yards,
but they can be vicious sounding at least.
Children, young people, and
adults of various ages all had
joy in sharing His Word
through the tracts & invitations.
Please join us in prayer that we
see results from this ministry.
Pray that people would indeed
attend, that we see people
saved and dedicate their lives.
I know that it is hard to pray for
people with funny names, but
do remember those who have
been faithful in the past and
aren’t attending: Nathaniel,
Francis, Renata and boys, Phillip, Hugo. Pray for the salvation of Antônio, Fábio, our
neighbors Robert and Ana. Ana
just found out that she has
breast cancer.
Thank you for praying. We
will let you know how your
prayers were answered.
Though there is great variety in how
God has made us, we are united in our faith
relationship with Him as Christians. We
also share some core biblical values as his followers in the Parkview family.
These values help us promote and pursue unite with each other as we seek to impact others and follow Jesus together.
One of our core values is relational evangelism.
“We believe in
In Mark 1:17 Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you
become fishers of men.” This is not optional. Those who
sharing Jesus
really follow Jesus find that their hearts become like His.
naturally in the
He noticed people. He cared about people. He connected normal flow of our
with them because he cared. His desire was to invite othrelationships.”
ers to enter the kingdom of God.
The ultimate dream is that we would become a spiritual family who care so much
about others that Jesus naturally flows out. In the end evangelism is not a program or
an event. It is the flow of Christ from one person to another.
Selfish Worship?
“Selfish worship” is an oxymoron. Let’s face it,
we’re all human and we’re all naturally selfish. There is
no way to completely remove the desire to have things
the way we like it, it’s not evil or wrong, it’s just the
way we are. When it’s up to us we will choose our
friends and activities based primarily on mutual wants,
needs, and desires. We like to hang out with people
who like the same things we do.
So what happens if we don’t get to choose our group, as in our jobs, extended
families, and even church? We need to learn to sacrifice some of what we want
for the vision and purpose of the larger group; sometimes we do it well, sometimes not so much. The more compelling the purpose, the easier it is to sacrifice.
Ok, so here’s my point for you to think about, what if we are selfish in our
worship gatherings? What if we don’t play the music style I like, what if I want
more music and less talking, or more talking and less music? More prayer, less
prayer.... too hot, too cold.... Selfish. We sometimes lose sight of the greater purpose; worship is not for us, it’s for God. He deserves and commands a sacrifice of
worship, something that costs us something. He desires that we would set our
desires aside and focus on Him, worship Him. We can’t worship Him if we are
focused on us.
The great news is that there is an easy way to overcome this selfishness, if we
will just focus more on Him all week long, pray, study, listen, and seek Him, our
desires will begin to change into His desires. We will begin to realize how awesome He truly is, and then real, deep, authentic worship will pour from our
hearts as we all join together in the greatest purpose of all. Worshiping Our God.
See you Sunday! Scott Sarnes
Page 4
Detective
Doright
Come Join Us
Vacation Bible School!
July 26-July 30th
6:30-8:30 pm

Ages 3yrs-5th grade
meet at the church.

Exciting Bible Experience for
students entering the 6th grade at
The Refuge at 1105 N Park Street.
Journey Off The Map
Take the journey!
LifeWay's VBS will
take your kids to
uncharted territory
where they will
begin to understand that obedience to God can
lead them beyond
the expected. So,
toss the map, stick close to your guide, and
prepare to listen for God’s direction in this
journey that is unknown to us, but known
by Him.
VBS Motto: This is the way. Walk in it.
VBS Scripture: Isaiah 30:21
And whenever you turn to the right or to
the left, your ears will hear this command
behind you: “This is the way. Walk in it.”
(HCSB)
Summer salutations, loyal readers! It's the
time of year when we all think about freedom.
It made me think about an old Carman song
called, "America Again". The ditty's lyrics talk
about how our country was founded on the principles of the Bible. Of the 55
founding fathers, 52 of them were active members of a church. The rest of
the lyrics talk about how we need to return to these principles. And this
song was written in the 90s and here we are still dealing with some of the
same problems. Those founding fathers were definitely strong individuals.
Which brings me off my 'soap box' and back to telling you about our virtue
for June, individuality. God is a unique, one and only God. There is nothing
and no one like Him in the entire universe. It only makes sense that everything He creates is also unique and one-of-a-kind. Spend a few minutes
watching Animal Planet and you'll quickly be amazed by the intricacies of
each animal God created. No two are alike and everyone is created with
special abilities and characteristics. But God's creativity doesn't end with the
animals. God made every person one of a kind. No two people are exactly
alike. Even identical twins have uniquely different fingerprints. We are each
an original--even you! God created you to be uniquely who you are. Paul
tells us in Ephesians 2: 10 that "we are God's workmanship created in Christ
Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do." An
amazing thing about being uniquely created is that you have good works
that only you can do. Every day you get opportunities to make a difference
by doing something specially designed for you. No one else can combine
your experiences, your abilities and your relationships to God's leading and
make a difference in your world. We followed some important events of
Timothy's life throughout the month. The bottom lines for the month were:
Week 1--Jesus wants to use your story to make a difference. Week 2--When
you discover your gifts you can make a difference. Week 3--When you use
our gifts together we make a greater difference. Week 4--You can make a
difference right now. The memory verse for the month was I Timothy 4: 12
A "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young. Set an example for the believers in what you say and in how you live."
The case was solved during a regular Kids Quest session. We were honored to have Sheila Garrett visit us and tell us about Royal Family Kids
Camp. Sheila told us that the camp is a place for kids that have had some
rough times to come and learn about God. We wanted to do something for
these kids and decided to make bracelets and necklaces for the campers.
Honeydo and I marveled at how each necklace and bracelet were different
and showed each individual's creativity. Way to go, Kids Questers! Let's
hear a cheer! Firecracker, Firecracker, boom, boom, boom. You all showed
creativity
and
that
makes
me
crazy
happy!
There you go, loyal readers, this report is as done as LeBron James and
his teams chances for championship. Better luck next year, boys! In July at
Kids Quest we'll be looking at the virtue, love. I'll be searching for a Kids
Quester who chose to give someone their time and friendship no matter
what. If you should see such an example, give me a call. Here's the number
with a July is National Ice Cream Month flair. Nine scoops of rocky road
ice cream for the team to celebrate the win. Eight M&Ms topping the
chocolate ice cream. Seven slices of bananas on the huge banana split. Two
spoons to share a thick strawberry malt. One cherry topping the sundae.
Two kinds of cone for your eating pleasure. Three tablespoons of nuts for
the perfect topping for the parfait.
Page 5
Suggestions for caring for elderly loved ones:


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A structured day of planned activities helps to promote a sense of routine
and stability.
 To prevent the loss of keys, dentures, eye glasses and other items, keep
locked up or out of sight when not in use.
 A major cause of stress is loss. Losses are usually multiple as we grow older.
 Comforting words and caring body language to soothe and calm anxious
elders.
It is important to recognize symptoms of depressions in older people, for they are less likely than
younger people to seek help. Mild depression may not need drugs. They may just need friends who will
spend time with them.
People who are strong in their faith usually exhibit contentment and tend to respond positively under
stress.
When considering your elders’ emotional stability attention to spiritual needs is important.
Thank you to those that continue to pray for this ministry.
Sincerely in Christ,
Barb Chase.
Royal Family Kids Camp!
Royal Family KIDS is part of a network of week-long summer camps for abused, neglected, and
abandoned children. The primary purpose of Royal Family KIDS Camp is to give children a week
of positive memories. Some children in the system never get to have a birthday party... at camp
there is a special day called, “Everybody’s Birthday!” We have a big celebration where we give each
child a small birthday cake and presents.
This year we will again have the opportunity to participate in the Royal Family Kids camp
birthday party. We will be providing the children with a birthday box and are in need of the following items:
Birthday Box for Children ages 6 – 12:
Children’s books, children’s puzzles, necklaces, bracelets, Nerf balls, nail polish, ball caps, sunglasses, hair clips, jewelry, watches, small cars, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump
ropes, Slinky, journals, socks, Legos, beach towels, pens, markers, crayons It is helpful to have multiples of similar items.
A box for the above items will be in the foyer until
Sunday, July 12th.
Page 6
Is Baptism Your Next Step?
Why Not Take it Soon?
Baptism is an act or worship commanded by Jesus at
the close of Matthew’s gospel that publicly demonstrates a person’s decision to trust their life to Jesus.
While it can be a scary step to consider, there is something special about crossing that line as a part of your
public testimony of faith. It is as special to one’s spiritual life as a wedding ceremony is to married life. If
you have not taken that step yet, please consider taking
it soon. Here are some short answers to some common
questions about baptism that may be of help to you:
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?
1. It illustrates Christ’s burial and resurrection.
"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ." --Col. 2:12
2. It illustrates my new life as a Christian.
"By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death,
in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may
live a new life!" --Rom. 6:4
Baptism does not make you a believer - it shows
that you already believe. Baptism does not
"save" you, only your faith in Christ and
through His power does that occur. Baptism is
like a wedding ring – it is the outward symbol
of the commitment you make in your heart.
WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?
Every person who has believed in Christ. "Those who
believe and accepted His message were baptized..." --Acts 2:41
"But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News...and
the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." -Acts 8:12
WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?
As soon as you have believed. "Those who believe[d]...were
baptized...that day!" --Acts 2:41
"Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good
News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some
water, and the man said, ´Look, here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?´ Philip said, ´If you believe with all your heart, you
may.´ The man answered, ´I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.´
So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him." --Acts 8:35
-38
There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have
decided to receive Christ into your life, you can
and should be baptized. If you wait until you
are "perfect", you’ll never feel "good enough!"
NEXT STEP
SUMME CLASSES
“Walking with God in the Desert” with Ray
Vander Laan
This class is offered at both 9:15 & 11:00 throughout
the summer. This study will guide you through the
Bible to discover and draw closer to God, even in
times of trial.
One Week Ministry Training Classes
These classes are training opportunities for people
who serve in various ministries. If you serve or are
interested in serving these one week trainings are a
great way to learn more and understand how important the service you provide is and how it is an
act of worship to God.
The training classes are: Watch for the dates these
will be offered.
Greeters & Follow up
Deacons & Trustees
Nursery
Usher
Communion servers
Our Core Values Classes
We are also offering three week classes twice this
summer on Our Core Values. These classes focuses
on the Fundamentals of what we believe and help
determine what we do and why we do things. All
are welcomed. All ministry leaders will be asked
to attend these classes:
Wk. 1: Offered on 7/12 at 11:00 & 8/9 at 9:15
Biblical Authority
Glorifying God
Living by Faith
Wk. 2: Offered on 7/19 at 11:00 & 8/16 at 9:15
Serving God together
Loving Others
Servant Hearted Ministry
Wk. 3: Offered on 7/26 at 11:00 & 8/23 at 9:15
Discipleship/Developing People Spiritually
Relational Evangelism
Living by Grace
Page 7
‘The View’
Pastor’s log July 2015
As we enter the heart of summer, a new reality is emerging for the American believer. It did not happen
suddenly and many fear that without a radical intervention of God there will be no going back. New York
Times columnist Ross Douthat recently noted on this topic that “the battle is decided, all that remains is the
terms of our surrender.” What we are experiencing is about more than a redefinition of marriage. More troubling is the twisting of God’s truth as it is forced to submit to the world’s values.
While the implications remain to be seen, it is clear that genuine Christian values may no longer be tolerated in public life. Paul Nyquist, pointing to recent bullying of the Mozilla CEO and Chic-fil-e, writes that
Christians are being forced from the public square unless they abandon the tenets of their faith (Prepare: Living Your Faith in an Increasingly Hostile Culture). Our country is growing increasingly intolerant of true followers of Christ.
What will this all mean? Only Jesus knows and he told us that in this world we would have trouble! For
today, I want to point to two verses at the close of 1Corinthians. 1Cor 16:13-14 conclude the letter with four
short, clear commands. They are all stated in a form that calls for continued action. In other words, we are to
continue doing these things. If we do, I am confident Jesus will continue to use us for His glory no matter
what comes next.
1Cor 16:13-14 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done in love.
1. Be on the alert: In other words, STAY AWAKE SPIRITUALLY. Be careful to not become so enthralled by
the world that you lose sight of Jesus and His eternal perspective.
2. Stand firm in the faith: Keep your heart planted firmly in the truths of God. Don’t compromise the gospel
or the word of God no matter how strong the currents of our culture pull.
3. Act like men: Act like a grown up. Be mature. Don’t respond childishly to whatever challenges or pressures emerge in daily life as we seek to honor God.
4. Be strong: Strength must be developed through intentional discipline. Casual Christianity will no longer
be an option. Only those who are grow strong in God’s word, deep in prayer and connected with His family
will have strength to live in holy strength.
5. Let all that you do be done in love: The world calls us to abandon truth in favor of love. True holy love
can never do that. But true holy love requires anchored faith and spiritual strength that does not become
childish or avoid temporary discomfort at the cost of an eternal good. Think of the power of Jesus when facing the cross. That is our calling.
My aim here is not to scare you, but it is to prepare you. These are indeed great times to live in Christ. I
urge you strongly to consider whether he is the core of your life or just part of the interior decorating. Now
more than ever, it will be important for us to stand strong together in Him. I look forward to standing strong
with you in Him in the years ahead.
John