GLAD TIDINGS MAY 2019

Letter from the church council

John 15:5-8

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much

fruit; apart from me you can do nothing…”

On Saturday, March 30th, the Church Council met together at the home of Erwin Kinsey for a Council retreat. Enjoying the warm hospitality of Erwin and Angelika, the Council members reflected on the year past and set the priorities for the year ahead. We rejoiced in the growth of the children and youth ministries as well as the increase in the number of small groups meeting together for Bible Study, prayer and caring support. We reviewed some of the challenges we have faced this past year and identified the areas we want to grow in and move forward during this next year.

Recognizing the richness of our diverse congregation, we will pursue ways to increase the involvement of even more people who attend Arusha Community Church (ACC). We understand that almost everything that happens in and through our church is done by people volunteering their time and abilities. Some volunteers have expertise in certain areas and others are just learning. There is room for everyone in our congregation and everyone is invited to participate fully! Galatians 6:9-10 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers”.

Why do you come to church? What is meaningful for you? Have you ever thought about church services and asked yourself, “why do we do things like sing, pray, preach, take communion, gather the offering” etc.? During the month of May and part of June, we will be doing a series of sermons on the Theology of Worship. We will have various preachers speak to the different elements of a church service and talk about why they are important. We are expecting to learn some new things and trust that this will make our services even more meaningful for each one of us.

Karibuni wote!
~ Sharon Mkisi

CHURCH COUNCIL’S RETREAT

Left to right: Sharon Mkisi, Eric Mbelle, Rebecca Mosley, John Kraft, Monica John,
Christopher Kenyi, Erwin Kinsey, Christy Rowe Miller,
Michael Pallanore, Doreen Marandu.
Missing: Moses Manyama and Elizabeth Hudgin.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Improvements coming: The ACC Church Council met in April and approved a proposal to make a number of repairs and improvements to the church facilities. In the coming months, expect to see workers refurbishing the sound room, painting Sunday school rooms, repairing cracks, painting and replacing the lighting in the sanctuary and working to make our worship space more beautiful and functional. If you have any questions, please approach any member of council.

May 2019 Service Schedule