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One of the great Immanuel traditions is the Summer Retreat. We’ve had big name speakers before and some unknowns (i.e. people within our church). This year we’re going to do something different. We won’t have speakers. The three sessions on Saturday will be open discussions with everyone contributing.
The question for discussion is What Is Christian Community?
#1 – What’s the Basis of Christian Community
#2 – What’s the Means of Christian Community
#3 – What’s the Goal of Christian Community
On Sunday morning we’ll be having our regular worship service at the retreat and the sermon will be on the Obstacles to Christian Community.
All in the context of Christian Community!
The suggested donation is $85 per adult, $15 per kid, but money should absolutely not keep any one from coming. It’s a whatever you can afford policy.
If you plan to be there, please RSVP to Cyndi at koinonia as soon as you can.
FAQs:
· When is it? July 26-28.
· How far away is it? About 1 hour and 45 minutes southwest of the city.
· When can I arrive? Anytime on Friday afternoon. But if you can’t come then, come whenever you can get there (even if it’s just for the Sunday service).
· Will I need to take a vacation day from work on Monday to recuperate? No, the pace is relaxed. You can take naps. There’s planned and unplanned time. You don’t have to prepare any meals (there’s a yummy cafeteria). It’s designed to be a time of refreshment and you can be back in time to unpack and get to sleep early on Sunday night.
· Are the accommodations Five Star? Not quite, but it’s not camping. There’s AC and electricity. There are bunk rooms for men and women and private rooms for families with kids.
· Do I have to bring my own bedding/towels? No. That’s provided. Just bring toiletries and clothes to get dirty in and a swimsuit.
· Is it kid friendly? Of course! There’s open space, hay rides, swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, sports, etc…
· Can I see the stars there? Yes, you can!
This Sunday after the service (app. 1:00 PM) we’ll be having our June Table Talk. The topic for discussion is ‘Spiritual Abuse.’ Go here for more details and optional advanced reading. We will also be having a special guest to help us along on this important subject.
RSVP to ncarter if you plan to be there so we can know how much food to provide.
Due to weather, the Joint Outreach has been cancelled for today.
On the first and third Saturdays we cook out and share the gospel with our neighbors. Come on out! Bring your kids. Face your fears. Serve with your Saturday. Feel the joy of joining with brothers and sisters to share the love of Christ.
Tomorrow (6/15) from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at The Meeting Place.
We normally have a discussion of some topic related to theology after the service on the 3rd Sunday of each month. Since that would fall on Father’s Day this month, we’re postponing it to the next week – 6/23. Lunch will be provided. Let Nathan know if you plan to be there.
Our topic this month is Spiritual Abuse. It has become a bit of a buzzword lately. Several ministries and leaders have been accused of it. What exactly is it? How does it happen? Why is it wrong? How can we be sensitive to those who have experienced it? How can we avoid it ourselves? What is a healthy, biblical view of authority and how should it be practiced?
I’m excited that joining us for our discussion will be a friend and local pastor who has been in ministry in the UIC Area since the early 80s with University Bible Fellowship. By his own admission he has been an authoritarian leader in what could be called a spiritually abusive culture. But in the last several years he has had a personal gospel-awakening and has been seeking to repent of his authoritarianism and reform the culture that allowed it.
Should be a good and helpful discussion!
Immanuel will host a bridal shower celebrating Abby’s upcoming marriage on Saturday, July 6th, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Andrea’s home. An Evite has been sent, but if you have not received one and would like to, please let Cyndi know.
Please bring your favorite recipe to share with the bride-to-be!
The couple is registered at Target and Bed Bath and Beyond.
Please RSVP to Cyndi at koinonia by July 3rd.
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