This Week’s Church and Community News
This Sunday, July 19
What's happening to the Church? Studies show that the Church is on the decline in the United States. We're going to explore how to turn that around, based on a promise made to Solomon when the Temple was dedicated. Bruce Ballast will be our guest speaker this Sunday, and he will be sharing from 2 Chronicles 7:14. Bruce is the retired pastor of Covenant Life Church in Grand Haven.
Next Sunday, July 26
We are engaged in an epic battle between the power of sin and death and the power of the Spirit. Sometimes, it seems like sin and death are winning as we see sin's effects in our lives and in the world. This Sunday, we will look at these two powers at work in us and the world and be reminded of which power has already won the battle. Rev. Becky Tjapkes will be our guest speaker. She’s a chaplain serving Hospice patients in West Michigan.
Ways to Give
You can support God’s work through FCC at any time in the following ways:
1) Electronically, by going to www.ferrysburgchurch.com/give, using the FCC App, or scanning this QR code.
2) Use the giving boxes in the back of the sanctuary.
3) Mail your check to church or use your bank’s bill pay service.
This Week’s Featured Ministry Partner – Steve & Kim Holtrop
Steve and Kim Holtrop are missionaries with Resonate Global Mission in Nicaragua. Steve works with the Nehemiah Center, an organization that trains and disciples local ministry leaders.
Next week, the offering will also be for Holtrop.
Featured Ministry Partners
Please consider supporting our ministry partners with your prayers and offerings.
July 19 - Holtrop
July 26 - Holtrop
August 2 - DeLange
August 9 - DeLange
August 16 - DeLange
Seniors Event
You are invited to watch the Coast Guard Parade of Ships on July 27 at 11:30 a.m. on our porch at North Shore Pier. Bring a bag lunch, and we will provide beverages and cookies to enjoy while the ships arrive. Please park in the Fisherman's Parking Lot. Contact Al & Lynn DeYoung at 616-405-0620 with questions.
Directory Updates
Our directory is almost ready! Stop by the table in The Commons to confirm that your information is correct. Corrections can be made by filling out one of the cards available next to the directory. If you are not in the directory, but would like to be included, please fill out a card or email office@ferrysburgchurch.com.
Shoe Drive
Bring in your used shoes and drop them in the barrel located in the hallway outside the office! All styles and sizes are appreciated. The shoe drive will benefit Great Faith Commission Ministry in Sierra Leone, Africa.
July Office Hours
During July, our office hours will be Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This will give our staff a short rest before preparing for our fall programs. As always, if you have questions, email office@ferrysburgchurch.com, and we will help you however we can!
Summer Prayer Guides
One great way to stay connected with your church family this summer is prayer. We have created a prayer calendar with a simple, daily way for you to pray for FCC and our community. Prayer calendars are available on the tables in the back of the sanctuary.
Online Directory
Contact the office or check with a staff member or member of the Council if you need the password to access our online directory.
LifeGroups
LifeGroups are mid-sized groups of people from our church family that gather twice a month to study, serve, and share life together. We have groups for all kinds of people at different places in life. If you’d like more information or help finding a LifeGroup, contact Pastor Nate (nate@ferrysburgchurch.com) or the church office (office@ferrysburgchurch.com).
Connections Emails
Want to stay in the loop with your church family? Sign up for the Connections email. An email goes out on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sunday mornings. This is also how we communicate cancellations and other important information. To sign up, send an email to office@ferrysburgchurch.com.
Men’s Coffee
Come for a cup of coffee and some conversation every Wednesday at 9 a.m in The Commons.
Women’s Coffee
During July and August, we will meet at North Beach on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 9:00 a.m. Parking passes are required, so carpooling is encouraged! In case of bad weather, we will meet at the church. Contact Elizabeth Wierenga with questions.
Youth and Family Ministries
Student Ministries - Pool Party
Join us July 26th at the Kendziera house, from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. The address is1278 Brookwood Drive, Norton Shores. Lunch will be provided! Bring your swimsuit and a towel, and come hang out with us! All incoming 6th graders through seniors are welcome to join.
GEMS
All girls in grades 1 through 7 are welcome to belong and be loved at Ferrysburg GEMS! GEMS meets the first and third Mondays of the month from 6:30-8:00 p.m. from September 21 through March. Contact Lori Houskamp (lori@ferrysburgchurch.com) for more information.
MomCo
MomCo is a place for moms to experience encouragement and community. Childcare is available for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Find all the details and meeting dates at ferrysburgchurch.com/momco.
GymJam
GymJam is a great opportunity for kids and caregivers to gather in the FCC gym so kids can play and adults can enjoy fellowship. Find future dates for GymJam on the Facebook page, at ferrysburgchurch.com/gymjam, or grab a postcard from the check-in station.
Community Announcements
Mosaic Counseling - Men’s Support Group
Whether you are dealing with stress, relationships, work pressures, family concerns, personal growth, mental health struggles, or simply looking for connection and support, this group offers an opportunity to share experiences, gain perspective, and build meaningful relationships. The group provides a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where men can connect with others who may be facing similar life challenges. They meet the third Monday of each month, starting July 20, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Grand Haven.
Foster Families Needed for Refugee Children
Across the world, war, natural disasters, or persecution have forced families to flee their homes. Before they flee or along the dangerous journey to a refugee camp, children and teens can become separated from their families. If family members cannot be located or are unable to provide care, teens could be resettled in the US in our foster system. As a refugee foster parent, you can provide a safe and supportive home for a teen to heal from past trauma and prepare for future independence. Contact Grace Drost at Bethany Christian Services for more information: gracedrost@bethany.org or (616) 826-2088.
Share Your Gifts at Love in Action
If you already volunteer with Love in Action, we want to say thank you! Giving your time is a precious gift and we are grateful. Do you know all the ways there are to get involved at Love in Action? Receptionist, client advisor, financial coach, health and dental clinics, administrative assistant/data entry, Upscale Resale store, transporting and processing donations, central pantry, gardening/landscaping, maintenance, mobile food distribution (food truck). We all have gifts to share, and when we share, we create opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with others. Opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing, weekly scheduled shifts. As a volunteer, you decide your schedule! Email love@loveinactiontricities.org for more information.
