By now most of us have given some thought about our holiday plans. Some of you have it completely mapped out:

who is visiting whom, on which day, at what location and the menu is assigned. In our house, we must plan travel time because neither of our extended families lives in town and we have young adult children with commitments. Scheduling can be a nightmare.Wait, did I just use the word “nightmare” when I am talking about the holiday season!?

Yes I did and it fits better than your pants will fit Thanksgiving

evening. Often an

unwanted guest arrives at our family holiday celebrations and I am not talking about your crazy uncle. The guest’s name is “High Expectations” and he usually brings an unannounced friend named “Stress.”I love using true stories to help make a point. I had an awesome experience this year to share as an illustration. In May my daughter, Mariah, was facing a very difficult time. She had watched some of her classmates withdraw from life when they experienced similar struggles. Mariah decided to lean into life and build something into her life instead of withdrawing. Mariah decided to train for a half marathon in October. She asked

Victory LapDoug Linville, Director of The Miriam Project, Dove Harbor, Linville Services

biweekly weavings of the community at Madison Park Church of God—November 19, 2014

October–December Beneficiary: Dove Harbor

Make a purchase at Holy Grounds and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Madison Park Church’s ongoing missions work in Russia.Come early or linger after the Sunday worship services to enjoy conversation and refreshments. Visit MadisonParkChurch.org to view the full menu.

Sundays, 8:30am-11:30amMasterCard, Visa and Discover accepted.

Worship ServicesSUNDAY9:00am - A blend of traditional and contemporary music, prayer, and teaching from God’s Word.10:45am - Features a praise band with distinctively modern edge and teaching from God’s Word.Classes are offered for all ages at 9:00am and 10:45am. For details, check out the Ministries Guide at MadisonParkChurch.org/ministries or pick up a copy at Grand Central.

Hiking is the one of the best activities for body, mind and spirit and it can be done any time, any place, any duration or any speed. Hiking can be a short stroll or a planned arduous multi-day hike across difficult terrains and challenging conditions. But one thing is for sure, it will benefit your health, your strength and your spirit.Brisk hikes can reduce our blood sugar levels and blood pressure, increase bone density and help guard agains osteoporosis or can significantly decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes or suffering from a stroke. And the more you do it the better it is for improving muscle strength and tone. And if that’s not enough, hiking also helps improve your mood helping to relieve some of the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. It helps us sleep better, improves balance, helps control weight and can even reduce the risk of dementia.The newly formed MPC Hiking Club combines the physical benefits with

spiritual benefits. Being in nature is ingrained in everyone but in the busy pace of everyday life we often don’t spend enough quality time in the outdoors. Hiking is a cheap activity that has lasting benefits. Besides being good for our body it is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family and enjoy the great outdoors together. Hiking together is more like a mini-vacation than exercise, with stories, laughter and memories being made along the way.Clint and Shelly Short, coordinators for the MPC Hiking Club, are very excited about hiking with friends around the local area. The group has been formed for only a short time and has already enjoyed Saturday hikes on the new Anderson River Trail, hiking/biking path that runs along the river and at Mounds State Park. Longer or shorter options are offered for each hike. Check out the Facebook page under Madison Park Hiking Group.

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Good for Body, Mind and Spirit

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A Reason to GiveMadison Park Church is reaching out to make a difference in our community this holiday season. Join in and support one or more of our A Reason to Give ministry partners. See page 4 for details or download the PDF at MadisonParkChurch.org.

•SPECIAL EVENTWednesday, December 3 at 6:30pm in The CommonsMeet representatives from MPC’s A Reason To Give initiative ministry partners and hear how you can make a huge difference this season!

Heartland Big Band Swingin’ Christmas CabaretSaturday, December 6 at 7:00pm in The CommonsThe Heartland Big Band brings in the yuletide season with swinging renditions of the holiday classics that will keep toes tappin’ thru the New Year!

Enjoy new music and special guest artist and jazz violinist, Cathy Morris. Enjoy classics favorites such as “Jingle Bells,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Christmas Waltz,” “Let It Snow” and the ever popular Nutcracker Suite, as only the HBB can perform it. Join HBB and their guests for a great evening of Christmas music in a cabaret setting!

Tickets available at the Church Offices, in The Commons, and at HeartlandBigBand.org

A Christmas CarolIndiana’s longest running, live musical production of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale.

Dinner Theatre: Thursday, December 11 at 6:30pmEnjoy a festive catered dinner followed by a spectacular performance of A Christmas Carol. Reservations required. Tickets: $22.00. Outlets: Grand Central and the Church Office.

Performances: Friday–Sunday, December 12–14 at 7:00pmSaturday Matinee: December 13 at 3:00pmAdmission is free. Open seating. Doors to the Main Auditorium open 30 minutes prior. An offering will be received to benefit Dove Harbor women’s shelter.

Gold Circle Tickets are available for the Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening performances. Enjoy premium reserved seating for $10. Tickets on sale: October 20. Tickets outlets: Grand Central, Church Office, and online at iTickets.com. Seating is limited.

All-Church Christmas PartyWednesday, December 17, 6:30-8:00pm in The CommonsFrom the youngest to the oldest are invited to enjoy an evening of Christmas activities. Begin with a delicious ham dinner at Lighthouse Café from 5:00-6:30pm followed by a variety of activities everyone will enjoy. Create a gingerbread house, make a Christmas ornament, decorate a Christmas cookie, take an elfie selfie, then complete the evening by singing Christmas carols and hearing the Christmas story. Contact: Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor or JJ Perry, Junior High Student Ministries Pastor.

Dove Harbor / Texas RoadhouseFriday, December 19, 11:00am-2:00pmThe annual Texas Roadhouse Tips Day will feature delicious food with staff and friends waiting tables. All tips will be donated to Dove Harbor. Contact: Jennie Griffis at (765) 642-1853.

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A Reasonto Give

News You Can UseThanksgiving Schedule Changes:Wednesday, November 26—All Wednesday activities are suspended.• Church Office (2200 Madison Square):

Closed Wednesday, November 26 at 12:30pm; closed Thursday and Friday, November 26-27

• Worship Site (6607 Providence Drive): Closed Wednesday, November 26 at 2:00pm; closed Thursday and Friday, November 26-27 Note: Open on Friday from 9:00-Noon for Christmas decorating. Open Saturday, November 28 at 8:00am

If you have an emergency during these times, please call (765) 642-2000 and the pastor on call will be notified.Decorate for Christmas: Friday, November 28, 9:00am-Noon. Everyone is invited to participate in decorating MPC for the Christmas Season. Contact, Marti Euneman, Events Coordinator.Women’s Volleyball: Thursdays from 7:00pm-9:00pm in Cross Street Gym All women, age 14 and up, are invited to enjoy physical exercise and fellowship on the volleyball court, every Thursday starting November 6. Contact: Melanie Denniston. Blood Pressure Clinic: Wednesday, December 3 from 5:30-6:30pm in The Commons. MPC Parish Nurses conduct a free blood pressure screening for MPC-goers and community friends. Contact: Sonia Smythe or Lynn Simpson.S.A.L.T.: Sundays at 6:00pm in Room 175. S.A.L.T. (Single Adults Living Truth) gathers to study Single and Satisfied by Tony Evans. All singles are invited. Enjoy bible study, fellowship and social activities. Facilitator: Don Wilson. Contact: Wanda Anderson at (765) 620-4607.Church in the Middle: Sundays at 10:45am in Room 175. The Christian Growth Class is using Pastor Rolland Daniels’ new book Church in the Middle as a guide to explore the importance of making connections outsite of the church walls to reach the world for Christ. The class is open to everyone. Contact: Jackie Corn, Administrative Assistant, Spiritual Formation.

Children’s MinistriesGather Around the Table: Wednesdays, 6:30pm- 8:00pm, Children’s Wing. Celebrate and give thanks together. Helping kids understand the importance of showing gratitude, to God and others. Learning how to live out Hebrews 13:16 by doing well and sharing with others. Contact: Shaiya Badgley, Elementary Age Coordinator.

Student MinistriesALL YOUTH EVENTS:• Christmas Caroling: December 10IMPACT—Junior High Ministries: • Fall Teaching Focus: Huge Hearts:

Matthew 5:43-48, Following the teaching of Jesus, students will be challenged to Love All and have Huge Hearts for the Kingdom.• Sundays at 10:45am in Crossroads

Auditorium. • Wednesdays, 6:30-7:45pm in

Room 176-178. • Christmas Party: December 17. Multi-

generational party in The CommonsIGNITE—Senior High Ministries: • Fall Teaching Focus: THRIVE: Ephesians

3:14-21. Wednesday nights from 6:00-8:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium

•STW OFFERING: for video Projectors/Church of God India project, each week

• Bible Studies:• Sundays at 9:00am in room 180• Tuesdays from 6:00-7:30pm at

Williamson’s Home • Ignite Christmas Party: Wednesday,

December 17 from 6:00-8:00pm in Crossroads Auditorium.

Opportunities to ServeStephen Ministry Training: MPC’s Stephen Ministry is a program that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community. If you are drawn to help people in their time of need, please consider attending the Training Sessions to begin in January. Contact: Nancy McCafferty at (765) 644-1472.Holiday Giving Opportunity: November 2-30 in The Commons. Make a difference in the life of our community. Bring any non-perishable food items and any size socks to the display in The Commons. Items will benefit three local food pantries, Operation Love, Christian Center and Park Place Community Center. A list items to donate is available at the display. Contact: Paula Spear, Children’s Ministries Pastor.

Support The Troops - Preparing for Christmas: Sunday,December 2 in The Commons. Ministers to those serving in the armed forces and their families. Register troops, families and volunteer. Items are needed to send to the troops: Snacks, note expiration date. Toiletries. R&R items: appropriate books/magazines, disposable cameras, games, zip-lock bags, small plastic containers for storage, greeting cards they can send, pens, puzzle books, etc. Socks, dryer sheets, tissues, sunscreen, colorful pillow cases. Personal or convenient sized items are easier to ship. bring items to Grand Central any Sunday or to the Troop Support Table on the first Sunday of each month.A complete list of suggested items are available at Grand Central. Contact: Linda Eaton at (765) 552-0447 or Jean Covalt at (765) 643-2278.

Family News To submit a threads announcement regarding a birth or death, please contact the Pastoral Care office at (765) 642-2000.

Congratulations to:Andy and Kelsie Barva on the

birth of their son, Maxwell James, born on Wednesday, October 29. Proud grandparents are: Dawn and Pat Green and Darla and Rick Busby.

In Sympathy With: Susie and Jim Hughey

on the loss of her mother, Rosemarie Scheib on Saturday,

October 25.Marsha and Eric Reeder on the loss

of her grandfather, William Formy-Duvall on Wednesday, October 29.

Frank and Michelle Amos, Jr. on the loss of his father, Frank A. Amos, Sr. on Friday, October 31.Pam and RB Kuhn on the loss of her mother, Dorothy Cessna on Saturday, November 1Jo and David Evans on the loss of her brother, Larry Neff on Wednesday, November 5.

Community and Ministry Partner News

Candles & Carols: Friday, December 5 at 7:30pm in Reardon Auditorium, Anderson University. Join us as we celebrate the 50th annual Candles & Carols. This special evening will feature familiar hymns and carols performed by the university musical ensembles, including the AU Chorale, Dance

Lighthouse Café

Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and mini-salad bar in The Commons: Wednesdays from 5:00pm until 6:30pm. Cost: Adults-$7, Children and students with ID-$5. Maximum of $25 up to 7 people, $5 per each additional person.

Nov. 19: Roast Pork and Dressing Kids’ Option: Mini Corn Dogs, Mac & Cheese

Nov. 25: Thanksgiving— No Activities at Church

Wednesday, November 19 at 6:00pm in the Hospitality Room

Explore Madison Park provides the essential information you need to know before calling Madison Park Church your church home. The class answers questions such as who we are, what we believe, and our church membership process in a relaxed, fun, and interactive format. You’ll meet others who are on the same journey as you and begin the process of getting connected. Find details or sign-up in the Hospitality Room or online at MadisonParkChurch.org. Contact: Shelly Stottlemyer, Pastor of Connection Ministries. continued on page 4

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Season of Giving Fair

Saturday, December 13 from 11:00am-2:00pm at

Mounds Mall in Anderson. Give the Gift of Compassion and HOPE this Christmas! Make an end of the

year charitable donation which is tax-deductible and will be matched by the generous donations of local businesses.

Dove Harbor is one of nineteen local nonprofit organizations that will be

participating in this wonderful event sponsored by Leadership Academy of Madison County.

Contact: Jennie Griffis at (765) 642-1853.

me to be her running partner. This would be her first “half” and she wanted to train and run it with someone who had completed the 13.1 mile challenge. I said, “yes,” not because I needed a scheduled race to keep me running but to simply have one-on-one time with my daughter. So we each entered into the training for different reasons. Finishing the race became our secondary goal.We came together on the weekends for our long runs at Mounds State Park because the trails were hilly, much like the race

MPC Hiking club is all about helping people be all God intends. So next time you feel in need of a physical or mental boost, why not gain inspiration from joining the hiking group, enjoy God’s creation, gain physical health and make a memory with friends.Contact: Shelly Stottlemyer, Pastor of Connections.

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Good for Body... Continued from page 1

Ensemble, Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and Women’s Chorus. Admission is free and seating is open. CD or DVD can be ordered. Contact: School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at (765) 641-4450.

Employment Opportunity at Anderson University: Part Time Administrative Assistant for Student Life - Assistant Dean of Students (Residence and Housing). Part-Time (53% FTE) hourly position with limited university benefit package. Submit an application to the Assistant Director of Human Resources, Decker Hall Room 10, Anderson University, 1100 East 5th Street, Anderson, IN 46012, kayoung@anderson.edu. Persons with an application on file may call (765) 641-4132 to express an interest in this position.

Community and Ministry Partner News

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course. We completed individual shorter runs throughout the week. We practiced taking our Power Goo at mile 7. We planned out our pace, our water/Gatorade intake strategy, our wardrobe and the attitude in which we would approach the race. When race day came, we were ready. We had a game plan. I told Mariah, “this is going to be our victory lap.” Because our primary goals were bigger than the race itself, we had won even before the race had started. Both of us had achieved our primary goals. The race was going to be a celebration of all the hard work we had accomplished. We worked our plan and we

enjoyed the race. During the race, we often heard comments from the volunteers. They said, “You guys are making this look easy” and “love your smiles!” We worked our plan. More than once I was feeling so good that I wanted to speed up. Mariah would calmly ask, “Dad, what are you doing?” and I would fall back into our pace. Accountability is always a good piece of any solid plan.I am asking that you step into the holidays with a clear understanding and plan of your primary goal. Please don’t miss your primary goal by only focusing on your commitments and busy schedules. The holidays can be difficult and if we do not plan for them we will miss what God has in store for us this holiday season. Identify which situations bring you stress. Where are you putting your expectations? How can you take care of your emotional needs while celebrating and completing the commitments of this season?If our goal is to have the perfect Thanksgiving meal, or to buy presents for everyone we know then we could miss the primary goals of being thankful and celebrating the birth of Jesus. Sometimes we take our primary goal for granted and assume it will happen without being intentional. It will not. While Mariah and I trained, I looked for opportunities to spend time with her, and worked to be available when she had time in her schedule to run. When we are not intentional, we are opening the door for High Expectations and Stress to walk in. So take a moment to name your primary goal for the holidays and make a plan.I would like to suggest one action step for your plan. Do things you know will build joy. Joy means that we are glad to be together. Joy will chase Stress and High Expectations out the door. You can build joy by smiling at the people you are with and praying for them. Acknowledge the characteristics you appreciate about them. You can build joy with God by talking to him and praising him. You could choose a Bible verse for this season to meditate on daily. Listening to music and singing songs in the car can build joy. Deep breathing (smell the flower-blow out the candle) can restore calm when Stress tries to get in. If you are a person who gets recharged by being alone, then create moments to be alone and if you get recharged by being with people then create moments where you are with “your people”.It’s time for your victory lap.Share your thoughts on this article; visit the blog

and leave a comment at MadisonParkChurch.org.

A Reason to Give

Operation Love Socks (any size, children & adult), Canned Corn, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Gravy (powder mix or in a jar)Christian Center Peanut Butter, Boxed Cereal, Hams for Christmas, Coffee, Men’s Hats & GlovesPark Place Community Center Non-perishable food itemsSupport the Troops Snacks (no glass items, non-melty, no pork), Toiletries (no liquid items), Socks, dryer sheets, Q-tips, pillowcase, R&R items: books, magazines, greeting cards, envelopes, board games. Angel Tree Sponsor a family for an incarcerated person with a $15 or $25 donation

Secret Families $550 to sponsor one family, Cash, check, or online giving, Christmas tree stand for medium or small tree (new or nice used), Christmas wrapping paperDove Harbor Thanksgiving Meal for Harbor Families: Seeking donations of sides, desserts and paper products to celebrate the Thanksgiving season on November 25. Contribute food or a monetary donation for this community meal.Christmas Support: Contact us to be matched with one of our families’ wish lists.Additional needs: 30 gallon trash bags, florescent light bulbs, dish soap.

Madison Park Church is reaching out to make a difference in our community this holiday season. Join in and support one or more of our A Reason to Give ministry partners. NOTE: Collection deadline for Operation Love, Christian Center and Park Place Center is December 7.