Eagles Wings Youth Auction January 21, 2010
Posted by todd in : Events, Youth , comments closed| Saturday, March 6, 2010 | ||
YOUTH AUCTION 2010 - To benefit Central’s youth mission trip to Sutton Alaska, June 19-29. Join us at Custer Office Interiors (217 Grandville Ave SW, Downtown Grand Rapids) from 6:00-10:00PM on March 6th, where you will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, while you browse silent auction items and socialize. Then stick around for our live auction, MC-ed by our home-grown Auctioneer team: David Custer and Bill Mills. It will be the most riotously FUN investment of both finances AND time you will make all year!
click here to check out some items that will be up for bid!
Exploring Ethics December 15, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, January 3, 2010 | ||
| Sunday, January 10, 2010 | ||
| Sunday, January 17, 2010 | ||
| Sunday, January 24, 2010 | ||
Ethics: How do you know what is the right thing to do, and how do you actually go about doing it? Join Brian Andrew in the Parlor for four Sundays in January to discuss ethical topics and situations with your Central Family!
Symbols of Advent November 25, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 13, 2009 | ||
December 13th Symbols of Advent Helen Phillips 11:00 am
Explore the symbols of Advent –What is the meaning of the Advent wreath? Why do we bring Christmas trees into the house? Did you ever wonder why we use poinsettias? Come and learn more about the symbols of Advent and bring some more depth to your experience of Christmas.
Angels and Advent November 25, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, November 29, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, December 6, 2009 | ||
December 6th Angels and Advent Elder Dawn Tillema
Who are these angelic messengers in Luke and what do they have to do with the good news of Christmas? Come get to know these heavenly messengers better and reflect on their news of great joy for the advent season! Join us at 11 am on November 22nd, 29th and December 6th.
Embellish Handbell Concert November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events, static website , add a comment| Saturday, April 18, 2009 | ||
Embellish 4pm April 18th
Embellish is a community handbell ensemble representing the greater Grand Rapids area. Embellish was founded in the fall of 1995 to be a professional level group that promotes the art of handbell ringing by providing a high quality musical experience for diverse audiences.
Embellish has made two mid-west tours, performed at the Directors Seminar in Saginaw, MI, accompanied the Grand Rapids Symphony during their Christmas Pops Concert series, and performed at the 2004 movie premier of The Polar Express. The group represented West Michigan at Pinnacle 2004, a nation-wide handbell seminar to perform a showcase concert. In 2006, Embellish travelled to France for their first international concert tour.
One of the highlights of Embellish’s eleven seasons has been the wonderful array of guest artists included in the annual “Embellish and Friends” performances. Over the years Embellish has hosted some fantastic musical guests from our community including The Resonators (percussion ensemble), Brian Morris (guitar), Dr. Larry Visser (organist), and Rich Ridenour (piano).
Embellish rings six-and-one-half octaves of Malmark handbells and five-and-one-half octaves of Malmark ChoirChimes, totaling over 130 bells and chimes.
Alma College Choir November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events, Music, News , add a comment| Saturday, March 14, 2009 | ||
Alma College Choir under the direction of Dr. William Nichols 4 pm March 14th
The Alma Choir is the primary touring choir in the Alma choral program. The Choir’s reputation for excellence, its many traditions, and its ambitious performing, touring and recording schedule attract a group of talented students for whom choral singing is an important part of their lives. About 30% of Alma Choir members are preparing for careers as professional musicians. The other singers are busy preparing for careers in every imaginable area. The common thread that binds these students is the joy — emotional, intellectual and spiritual — found in singing together.
New Years Eve Organ Concert November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Thursday, December 31, 2009 | ||
Todd Wilson 8pm Dec 31stTodd Wilson is Professor of Organ at Indiana University and organ curator of the Cleveland Orchestra. Wilson studied organ with Wayne Fisher at the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, where he obtained both a B.M. and a M.M. He then studied with Russell Saunders at the Eastman School of Music.
Wilson has won several competitions, including the Grand Prix de Chartres and the Fort Wayne Competition. Wilson has performed with many notable orchestras, including the Cleveland Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and he Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. He has performed in Tokyo, Vienna, Slovakia, and extensively throughout the United States.
Mr. Wilson’s numerous recordings include solo organ works as well as performances with a variety of other instrumentalists. The Cleveland Plain Dealer describes him as “… a fabulous virtuoso with fleet feet, a prodigious memory and technique to burn.” A review from Birmingham, Alabama reads, “Wilson … is a master tonal colorist … consistent security on both the manuals and pedals.”
Books of the Spirit November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Thursday, December 3, 2009 | ||
| Thursday, January 7, 2010 | ||
BOOKS OF THE SPIRIT: Join us on December 3 from 10:00 – 11:30 AM for our continuing discussion of Tim Keller’s book, The Reason for God. Since the book covers so much theological territory, please choose one question for discussion and email it to us by Thanksgiving. For our January 7 discussion, we will be reading Dan Brown’s new book, The Lost Symbol. This fun book raises some great questions about the principles upon which our country was founded. Everyone is welcome, and you don’t even have to have finished the book to attend! Please join us!
Thanksgiving Worship Service November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Wednesday, November 25, 2009 | ||
Join us for our community Thanksgiving Service at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary. Communion open to every Christian will be served. Everyone is welcome to attend our dinner before hand at 5:30 and to participate in our service of Thanksgiving to God!
Child Protection Training November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 6, 2009 | ||
CHILD PROTECTION TRAINING: As the people of Christ, we are called to protect the more vulnerable people around us. Do you know how to best protect our children? If you would like to work with children at Central you need to complete our Child Protection Training Class and submit your personal information for a background check. If you have not previously completed the training, please join us on December 6 from 11:15 – 12:15 PM (during Education Hour!). Please RSVP to the church office if you are planning on attending! Thank you for your care of our children!
Christmas in Central Town November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 20, 2009 | ||
Come see our children and Central members in another fantastic Children’s Production! Written and Directed by our own Mary Beth Timmer, the story of what the children do when Christmas is Cancelled will warm your hearts this season. $2 donation per ticket is requested.
Come join us in the fellowship hall on December 20th at 11:00 am!
Christmas Around the World November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Tuesday, December 8, 2009 | ||
Contact Charlotte Geelhoed at 957-0245 if you have any questions or to make your reservations.
Chili Tasting November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 6, 2009 | ||
Chili Tasting on Sunday, December 6 at noon in the Fellowship Hall. You can sample some of the best chili members have to offer. Crackers and cookies are provided also. Please sign up in the Atrium today during Coffee Hour.
All Church Open House November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 13, 2009 | ||
All Church Open House, Sunday, December 13 at the home of Larry and Mary Gerbens, starting at 6:00 PM. Bring an appetizer to share; beverages will be provided. Maps and/or directions will be provided at a later date
New Veggie Tales Video Screening November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, November 29, 2009 | ||
SPECIAL ALL KIDS EVENT: Kids, join us in Fellowship Hall on Sunday November 29 at 11:15 AM for a screening of the brand new Veggie Tales Video, St. Nicholas, A Story of Joyful Giving. This video presents another retelling of the St. Nicholas Story which we remember and celebrate at our St. Nicholas Festival on December 5th. Popcorn will be provided! Come and join the fun with Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber!
Community Thanksgiving Dinner November 24, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Wednesday, November 25, 2009 | ||
SPECIAL THANKSGIVING ADDIE’S DINER: We will add a third Addie’s Diner meal this Wednesday at 5:30 PM. The meal will consist of roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, breads, and pumpkin and pecan pies. A generous family in our congregation will finance the meal and help serve it as well. After dinner, our annual Thanksgiving Eve Communion Service will be held in the sanctuary at 7:00 PM.
Long Nights Journey into Day September 11, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, October 25, 2009 | ||
A video introduction and discussion into the South African context from which the Belhar Confession comes . What are the cultural roots of this document that the RCA is adopting?
The Meaning of Biblical Authority September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, December 6, 2009 | ||
The Meaning of Biblical Authority
Rev. Dr. Louis Lotz December 6
How do I Know? The Bible tells me so! What is the nature and meaning of Biblical authority? What do we mean when we say that the Bible is God’s Word or inspired by God? What is the difference between inerrancy and infallibility? This class meets from 11:15 - Noon in the Chapel.
Identifying Your Spiritual Gifts September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment
Identifying Your Spiritual Gifts
Seminarian Drew Meyers November 22 and December 13
What are spiritual gifts? Do I have them and what should I do with them? This practical course will help you discern your gifts and will guide you in finding your vocation. This class meets from 11:15 - Noon in the Parlor.
The Belhar Confession September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, November 1, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, November 8, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, November 15, 2009 | ||
The Belhar Confession
Rev. Dr. Cynthia Holder Rich November 1—15
The 2009 RCA General Synod voted to adopt this confession and it needs ratification by 2/3 of the regional classes. What are the history and implications of this creed? This class meets from 11:15 - Noon in the Parlor.
Women in the Bible September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, October 4, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, October 11, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, October 18, 2009 | ||
Women in the Bible
Rev. Dr. Lynn Japinga October 4—18
When we examine the stories of women in the Bible we discover a spectrum of both positive and negative experiences. Do those experiences still resonate with us today? This class meets from 11:15 - Noon in the Parlor.
Exploring God’s Grandeur: The Theological Imagination of Gerald Manely Hopkins September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, November 1, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, November 8, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, November 15, 2009 | ||
Exploring God’s Grandeur: The Theological Imagination of Gerald Manely Hopkins
Dr. Jen Holberg November 1—15
Poetry in both form and content should be deeply theological, helping us to better understand God, the creation, ourselves and our fellow human beings. This class meets in the Chapel from 11:15 - 12:00.
Discussion on Christian Symbolism in Worship September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events, static website , add a comment| Sunday, October 25, 2009 | ||
Discussion on Christian Symbolism in Worship
David Veldt October 25
To conclude our six week study of Christian Symbolism in Worship, we will discuss the implications for Central Reformed Church of all of these aspects of Christian Symbolism. This discussion meets in the Chapel from 11:15 - Noon.
Art in the Liturgy and Worship September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events, static website , add a comment| Sunday, October 11, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, October 18, 2009 | ||
Art in the Liturgy and Worship
Helen Phillips October 11 and 18 in the Chapel 11:15 - Noon
Everything that you always wanted to know about religious symbolism but were afraid to ask. This is the third presenter in our series on Christian Symbolism in Worship.
Does Central’s Architecture Reflect its Character? September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, September 27, 2009 | to | Sunday, October 4, 2009 |
| Sunday, September 27, 2009 | to | Sunday, October 4, 2009 |
| Sunday, October 4, 2009 | ||
Does Central’s Architecture Reflect its Character?
Dr. Daniel L. Ballast September 27 and October 4
Barbara Brown Taylor, in her recent book Leaving Church, says that “History matters. The story of a church’s birth tends to shape that community’s identity for the rest of its life, with each new generation adding its own variations to the foundational themes.” Central is unique in that it has experienced two births and one marriage; therefore, a mixture, and sometimes conflict, of foundational themes. We will identify those themes along with their variations and determine if and how they are reflected in the architecture of our church. In the process we will look at what the Irish call “Thin Places” - the ordinary places that people walk right by if they are not paying attention.
This class is the second part in our Christian Symbolism in Worship Series. It meets in the rich architecture of Dykstra Chapel.
Dealing with Anxiety and Stress September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, September 20, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, September 27, 2009 | ||
Dealing with Anxiety and Stress
Counselor Kerry Prior of the Fountain Hill Center September 20 and 27
Stress and anxiety are pervasive today and are effecting our physical and spiritual health. Is there any relief?
The Theology of Space and Architecture September 10, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, September 20, 2009 | ||
The Theology of Space and Architecture
Rev. Dr. Laura Smit September 20
Back by popular demand, Dr. Smit will kick off our Christian Symbolism in Worship Series with a session about glorifying God in architecture. This adult education class meets in the Chapel at 11:15 - Noon.
Central Reads June 16, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Wednesday, June 17, 2009 | ||
| Thursday, July 23, 2009 | ||
| Thursday, August 20, 2009 | ||
CENTRAL READS: Join us this summer as we read and discuss books as a congregation! Our June 17th book is Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. Our July 23rd book is The Shack by William Young and our August 20th book is Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson. Bring your questions and a snack to share! We will look for you at 7:00 pm!
Books of the Spirit Book Group June 16, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Wednesday, July 1, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, August 5, 2009 | ||
BOOKS OF THE SPIRIT: Join us from 10-11:30 AM as we read and discuss books together! The July 1st discussion will be on Escape, by Carolyn Jessop who fled the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Our August 5th discussion will be on Ken Follett’s page turning page turning new novel, World Without End. Join us as we create community and view our faith and diverse theological themes from a variety of perspectives!
Sports Life Camp 2009 May 12, 2009
Posted by admin in : Children, Events, News , add a comment| Monday, July 13, 2009 | ||
| Tuesday, July 14, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, July 15, 2009 | ||
| Thursday, July 16, 2009 | ||
SportsLife Camps is coming to Central Reformed Church for an amazing week of sports, arts, and Outrageous Fun!!! The SportsLife Camps coaches, along with volunteer leaders from our church, will lead campers in the following activities:
Main Events
Basketball & Street Hockey
Ultimate Frisbee & Soccer
Cheerleading & Dance
Ultimate Arts Extravaganza
Arts Extravaganza & Dance
Side Shows
Obstacle Course
Rubber Chicken Challenge
Sports Explosion
75 Foot Slip and Slide
Where?
CENTRAL REFORMED CHURCH
10 College Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503
When?
Monday, July 13th – Thursday, July 16th
Camp begins at 5:45 pm, and it goes until 8:45 pm.
Bring kids for check-in no earlier than 5:30 pm, and pick them up by 9:00 pm.
Check-in and check-out will take place in the Atrium.
Kids must be checked in by an adult each day of camp!
Who can come?
Kids entering 1st – 5th grade in the fall of 2009.
How much?
The cost is $ ZERO for the entire four days of camp.
Donations are accepted however.
Make checks payable to Central Reformed Church.
How to sign up?
Follow this link to our online registration form
Register online!
Questions? Contact the Minister of Lifelong Learning at (616) 456-1773.
Spiritual Intimacy April 21, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, April 26, 2009 | ||
Spiritual Intimacy. Kevin De Kam, Fountain Hill Center. — Instead of falling into the spiritual trap of trying to get everything right and then bringing the best version of ourselves to God, this class will focus on true intimacy. The scriptural truth of bringing all of who we truly are now, warts and all, to a genuine and authentic relationship with God is the best way to receive the blessings God has promised us. These same principles also apply to human relationships, and healthy human relationships are a wonderful way to glorify God. To explore this topic more, join us in the parlor at Parlor 11:10 am.
The Micah Center April 8, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, April 19, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, April 26, 2009 | ||
| Sunday, May 3, 2009 | ||
Rev. Vern Hoffman is the founders of the Micah Center, an ecumenical group of Grand Rapids Christians that seek to influence the world in matters of justice in five areas: Poverty and Hunger, Healthcare, Environment, Immigration and Restorative Justice. Come to the Chapel on April 19th, April 26th and May 3rd at 11:00 to hear about this new movement in our midst.
Men’s Spirituality April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Sunday, April 19, 2009 | ||
“Weaving Jesus Story with our own, growing in the Sacred Masculine.”
Join Rev. Al Heystek as he explores what it means to be male and in our culture and in the church.
Good Friday Community Service April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Friday, April 10, 2009 | ||
The Seven Last Words of Jesus Christ
Oratorio by Theodore DuBois, sung by combined area choirs.
Participating Churches:
First (Park) Congregational UCC
First United Methodist Church
Central Reformed Church
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Westminster Presbyterian Church
St. Marks Episcopal Church
La Grave Avenue Christian Reformed Church
East Congregational UCC
Good Friday Meditation by Rev. Chandler Stokes
held at First Park Congregational Church 10 East Park Place NE Downtown Grand Rapids, MI
Holy Week Prayer Service April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Monday, April 6, 2009 | ||
| Tuesday, April 7, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 8, 2009 | ||
While it is important to learn about prayer, it is even more important to practice it. This year for Holy Week, April 6th – 9th; Central Reformed Church will open the chapel from 12 noon until 12:30 PM for a time of lectionary readings, prayer and silent meditation. Come join us as we prepare our hearts for the passion of Good Friday and the new birth of Easter.
Books of the Spirit Book Study April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Tuesday, April 14, 2009 | ||
Join us for a discussion of the good book, Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy by Kraybill, Nolt and Weaver-Zercher. This small group will not only allow you to grow spiritually, but it will create friendships as well. Everyone is welcome!
Maundy Thursday Worship Service April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Thursday, April 9, 2009 | ||
The name Maundy originates from the Latin mandatum for our Lord’s example in washing His disciple’s feet after their last supper together in the upper room. This act of service and loving care took place at the Lord’s Supper, the central sacrament of the Church, which was instituted on the eve of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion.
Behold, I give you a new commandment, that you love one another, just as I have
loved you. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:34 -35)
The service of Tenebrae, or “service of darkness” is symbolic of the flight of Christ’s disciples, the approach of the dark hate of Jesus’ enemies, and the crucifixion of our Lord. This evening we are reminded of the darkness, desertion, and despair that Jesus experienced in the garden of Gethsemane. During the service, the lights in the sanctuary are gradually extinguished, and the Christ Candle is removed, leaving the nave in darkness, signifying Christ’s crucifixion & death.
Let the solemnity of this hour lead us to worship with thoughtful reverence, just as Jesus did in the fellowship with his disciples within in the shadow of the Cross.
Seder Dinner April 7, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events , add a comment| Thursday, April 9, 2009 | ||
Come join Central Reformed Church as we continue in the Holy Week Passover tradition with our Seder Dinner. Liturgy, food and fellowship all come together at 5:45 pm.
Please call the church office for reservations at 456-1773.
Hebrews Bible Study February 25, 2009
Posted by admin in : Adult Ed, Events , add a comment| Wednesday, March 4, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, March 11, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, March 25, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 1, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 15, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 22, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 29, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, May 6, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, May 13, 2009 | ||
HEBREWS BIBLE STUDY: This nine week study of Hebrews is an encouragement for those of us who sometimes feel burned out by our faith and who are struggling to hold unto our relationship with God. Food and community occurs between 9:00 - 9:30 am, with our study concluding by 11 am. Everyone is welcome and newcomers are warmly invited to join us! Childcare is always provided.
Explore the teachings of who Jesus is and why faith in him matters today. The book of Hebrews is unique; its style is distinct from that of other letters in the New Testament. Though we don’t know who wrote Hebrews or exactly whom it was written to, it’s clear that the book was written to believers in Jesus who had become exhausted. They were tired of being Christians, tired of suffering for their faith, and tired of waiting for Jesus to come back. In their burned-out state they were in danger of drifting in their journey with God. So the writer of Hebrews aims to encourage these believers to hold on, in God’s strength, by refocusing on the author and founder of their faith—the Lord Jesus Christ.
This “back to basics” book outlines who Jesus is and why faith in him matters, and it focuses particularly on Jesus as our high priest and our “once for all” sacrifice (Heb. 10:10-12). Hebrews also speaks to us today, reminding us of all that Jesus is and all he has done for us, encouraging us to live faithfully in times when we too may be weary and in spiritual danger.
This study will take a week off for spring break on April 6th. And on March 18th, we will enjoy a special Bible study with our Teacher in Residence Laura Smit.
The Really Bad Girls of the Bible (Bible Study) February 19, 2009
Posted by admin in : Events, static website , add a comment| Wednesday, April 15, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 22, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, April 29, 2009 | ||
| Wednesday, May 6, 2009 | ||
Book/Bible Study: The Really Bad Girls of the Bible, by Liz Curtis Higgs Please join us for
for a four week book/Bible study as we explore the lives of the following 8 women in the Bible: The Medium of En Dor, Tamar the Widow, Herodias, Athalia, Jael, The Adulteress, Bathsheba, and the Bleeding Woman. Even though they were “bad” in their time, a closer look at their lives reveals God’s truth, shining through the centuries and illuminating the corners of our lives. Liz Curtis Higgs’ blend of contemporary fiction, biblical commentary, and humor helps us all to experience God’s grace anew. Our first meeting will be on Wednesday, April 15th from 9:30 - 11:00 AM. We will discuss two chapters each week, concluding our study on May 6th. For more information and/or to sign-up, please contact Pam Morris (575.0255) or Leslie Hooker (940.0810).