Driven

SNOW TUBING @ Snow Trails

2012-01-18T08:41:00.000-05:00

On February 4th, we will be joing our friends from Newark UMC to go Snow tubing. We will be heading up to Snow Trails in Mansfield for an afternoon of tubing. The cost for this trip will be $40 and will include dinner. We will meet at the church at 11:00 am on February 4th and return sometime around 8 pm. Let Matt know if you want to go by January 29th.

Coming Up

2011-11-29T06:28:00.002-05:00

Good morning,

Here are just a few reminders about things we have coming up in the near future. December is a busy month so be ready!

1. This Saturday, December 3rd, we are going shopping in Columbus and then to the Zoo lights. We will be meeting at the church at 10::30 am and heading to Tuttle mall. While at the mall, you can shop for anyone. If you would just like to "window shop" that is fine too! Then you will need to eat dinner at the food court before leaving around 4:30 pm to head to the Zoo to see " Wild Lights". The evening will then end with us returning home around 9:30 pm. Please bring $12 for the zoo lights and any money for food/shopping that you may need. This will be a great day! IF you are planning to go, please make sure Matt knows no later than Wednesday (tomorrow). If there are any adults who can go, I am still in need of some chaperones.

2. Since we will be at the Zoo lights and Shopping on Saturday, there will be NO youth group this Sunday as indicated on the original schedule.

3. On December 18th, we will be having our Christmas Party and "Living Nativity". This is a Sunday night, however both youth groups will be combined and we will share in a small gift exchange. Please plan to bring a gift that can be purchased for $5 or under. Dinner will be served and we will then participate in the living Nativity. To give us a little more time this evening, please plan to be at the church from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Make sure to dress for the weather.

4. THIS IS A DATE CHANGE: On December 21st, we will be partnering up with our Snack and Learn program as well as our soup kitchen to have a small Christmas party for the kids at Lincoln Park. As you may have noticed on Sunday, we are having the congregation pack shoeboxes to distribute to the kids. Since few of us have school this day, we figured that middle of the week may be better than another Saturday event in December. Here is the plan:

4:00 pm - Meet at the church to cook/ pack up

5:00 pm - Leave for Lincoln Park/ set up

5:30 pm - Have crafts for the kids to make (with our help)

6:15 pm - Serve dinner

7:00 pm - Distribute shoeboxes

7:30 pm - Return to church/ clean up

8:00 pm - Finished

I think that is all for now, if you have any questions don't hesitate to call or email.

In Christ,

Matt Ballentine

Don't Forget...New Schedule Tonight

2011-11-13T11:44:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder, we are changing our schedule a bit for the rest of the year....STARTING TONIGHT

6-7:45 pm Middle School Youth
6:45-8:30 pm High School Youth

Upcoming Events

2011-10-26T22:05:00.001-04:00

Good evening,

Here are a few things that we have coming up. Please don't hesitate to let me know if you have any questions….

1. We will combining youth group on October 30th and November 6th for a mission oriented event. This Sunday, October 30th come dressed for halloween (no masks or face paint please). We will be running a food drive “Trick or Treat so Kids Can Eat” and on October 30th we will be distributing brown bags to three different communities (Brewer Heights, Story Place and North Fork Village) to distribute brown bags. November 6th we will also be combined to collect the canned goods to be donated to Good Sam. When we are combined, that means we will meet from 6-8:30 pm and we will still have dinner for everyone at the end of the evening. Please plan to be on time and dress for the weather so that we can set out as soon as possible.

2. On November 13th, we are going to be changing the format of youth group a little. We have felt the need to incorporate worship into our Sunday evening activities a little more and so we have come up with a plan to do so. Here will be the new schedule that will begin on November 13th:

6-6:45 pm Middle School
6:45-7:45 pm Combined Worship/ Food
7:45-8:30 pm High School

We are in the process of creating a praise band that could lead us in music and plan to present the message through video, skit, drama or music each evening that we meet. We are really excited about this awesome opportunity. You aren't going to want to miss this experience.

IN Christ's Love,

Matt Ballentine

BOB Evans Festival Cancelled

2011-10-13T22:55:00.002-04:00

Due to a lack of interest, the Middle School Youth will not be going to the Bob Evan's Festival on Saturday. Since this event is cancelled, WE WILL HAVE MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH ON SUNDAY....

Bob Evan's Festival & Kings Island

2011-10-04T22:38:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Here are just a few reminders on things that we have going on over the next couple of weeks. If you have any questions, please let me know.

1. Don't forget, this Sunday coming up, there will be NO YOUTH due to the fact that Mike Rayson will be at our church performing a concert and sharing his message. Please come on out and support this event because I am sure it will be great fun for you and your family. There will be a potluck dinner at 6:00 pm with the concert starting at 7:00 pm. This is NOT going to be some boring speaker, I am sure you will really enjoy it.

2. On October 15th, our Middle School Group will be heading to the Bob Evan' Festival in Rio Grade. This event will also be open to any 5-6th grade students who would like to participate. We will meet at the church at 9:30 am in order to depart by 9:45 am. The cost for this trip will be $8 and please understand that you will need some money to purchase lunch while at the event. They will also have other vendors like Hirsch Fruit Farm :) to purchase from. It is my hope that we will return to the church between 3 & 4 pm. We will call when we are close to returning. We are also in need of parents who would like to attend this trip as a chaperone. Please let Matt know by Sunday, October 9th if you would like to go.

3. On October 22nd, the High School Group will be going to King's Island for their Halloween Haunt on October 22nd. We will meet at the church at 2:00 pm for a 2:30 pm departure. The cost for this event will be $40.00 and will not include any meals that you may need to purchase. We will stop on the way down to purchase food at a fast food restaurant to help avoid the high costs of park food. This is open to any student in 9-12th grade. We will then return to the church at approximately 3 am. If you wish to sleep at the church for the remainder of the night, you are more than welcome to, just bring you overnight supplies to the church. Please let Matt know if you want to go by October 16th so I can make sure I have enough drivers. I am also in need of chaperones for this event, remember chaperones must be over 21 years old.

Just as a reminder, any weekend that we have an event for a particular youth group, we will not have youth group for that age group that Sunday night. So with these two events there will be no Middle School Youth on October 16th and no High School Youth on October 23rd.

I look forward to these upcoming events, again don't hesitate to call or email with questions.

He we go...

2011-09-14T22:37:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to remind everyone that this SUNDAY (9/18) at 5:30 PM will be our Youth Group kick off event known as messy night! While we may not have the usual food mess, we will be playing lots of mud games…like tug o' war, mud volleyball, and much more. We will also throw in there a few water games to clean ourselves off! This event is combined for all middle school and high school students. Again it will start at 5:30 pm and end at 7:00 pm. It is sure to be a good time so bring out your friends so we can get to meet them!

The following week, September 25th we will have our first regular scheduled meeting with middle school starting at 6:00 pm and high school starting at 7:00 pm. We are going to try to have that overlap time again where I want to try something new…It is my goal to bring our middle school and high school group closer together and so weekly we will be having dinner together from 7-7:30. This first week September 25th, parents are welcome to join us for a pizza dinner while we discuss the calendar and logistics for the year. In order to make this dinner idea successful, I will NEED parents to help out by volunteering to bring dinner for a week, it can be pizza, KFC chicken, tacos, etc… If we have 15 parents who are willing to help out, then each parent will have to provide dinner twice during the school year. Remember, I am not looking for Martha Stewart meals, just simple. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO HELP, or know someone in the church that might like to help out our youth ministry, please talk to me so that I can get this schedule together.

I really looking forward to this year as we focus on missions and outreach. It is my prayer that you will grow closer to God and each other as we participate in these awesome activities. Please let me know if you have any questions.

In Christ,
Matt Ballentine

2011-09-03T07:31:00.001-04:00

We will be placing 1400 flags in straw to represent the lives that were lost on 9.11...bring your friends and family to help.

9.11.11 Display Setup

2011-09-03T07:17:00.000-04:00

WE will be meeting at 9:00 am on Monday, September 5th, to put together the display for 9.11.11. If you can come help, that would be great!

Youth Group to Begin on September 18th

2011-08-24T21:40:00.002-04:00

On September 18th, we will be starting to meet on a weekly basis. We are going to have similar start times to last year with Middle School Starting at 6 PM and High School Starting at 7 PM. I would really like to see if we can provide dinner on a weekly basis from the 7-7:30 time frame. If we can do this, our group will grow closer together as an entire youth group (Middle School and High School). If you or someone you know would like to help provide meals, please let Matt know.

2011-08-18T23:16:00.000-04:00

This is going to be an awesome event as we REMEMBER and HONOR those who died and those who serve...even though you may not remember the events of this day, please plan to come out and share in this 10 year anniversary of such a horrific event in our nations history. We will be at church from 3:30-6:30 PM.

Pool Party/ Cookout

2011-08-12T23:52:00.003-04:00

To finalize our summer events, we are going to be having a pool party/cook out at the Smith's home at Club View Drive, Chillicothe. If you are able to come, please let me know by responding on Facebook or this email by Friday, August 19th. I am also looking for some parents who would be willing to donate some food for this event like: hamburgers, hotdogs, side salads, desserts, etc. Please let me know if you would be able to help with this in anyway. Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things for the school year!

DVD/VCR Anyone?

2011-08-12T23:49:00.002-04:00

Many of you may have seen that we have finally gotten the big screen TV hung in one of the youth rooms. Does anyone have a VCR/DVD player that they would be willing to donate to that room so that we would be able to watch Bible study videos (or any videos for that matter) in that room? Thanks for your help!

Zoombezi Bay - NO DATE CHANGE

2011-07-23T10:33:00.000-04:00

I know that there was some talk this week about changing the date for Zoombezi bay. However, after some sitting down and looking at the calendar, we ARE NOT GOING TO CHANGE THE DATE… THE ZOOMBEZI BAY TRIP will be this TUESDAY, JULY 26th however I am going to change the departure time slightly and say we will meet at 9:30 AM and we will return sometime around 10 PM. Please let me know by tomorrow, Sunday July 24th if you are interested in going.

I apologize for any confusion but with summer schedules I was trying to accommodate as many people as possible while still having enough chaperones. The cost is $45 for the day which includes lunch and dinner. You may want some extra money for snacks throughout the day. Please let Matt know by Sunday, June 24th so that I can make sure I have enough drivers…

Have a great day!

Matt Ballentine

VBS & Zoombezi Bay

2011-07-13T12:54:00.000-04:00

Here are some things that are going over the next few weeks:

Next week we will be having VBS and would love for everyone to come. We have morning VBS (9- 11) and evening VBS (6-8) and need help with both. Please let me know if you haven’t signed up yet and would like to.

On Tuesday, July 26th we will be going to Zoombezi Bay. We will be leaving at 8:30 AM and returning around 9:30 PM. The cost is $45 for the day which includes lunch and dinner. You may want some extra money for snacks throughout the day. Please let Matt know by Sunday, June 24th so that I can make sure I have enough drivers. We are also in need of adults to help with this event so please ask your parents if they could attend.

We will be having a Lake White trip again this year but I am still ironing out the dates and will get them to you as soon as possible.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Home sweet home!

2011-06-28T22:35:00.000-04:00

Well, we made it back to Chillicothe and all are really tired. That aside, we had an excellent time and are looking forward to sharing the stories with our families and friends! Thanks to all who helped make this weekend possible

from Walnut Street UMC: Becki & Greg Smith, Beth & Emil Wepprich, Rod Siddons, Melissa Hatmacher, Celia & Scott Smith, Michelle Hines and Matt Shoemaker

from First UMC: Brandi Grant-Rigsby, Gary Watson, Mary & Roger (not sure of last name) :) and of course the congregations of both churches for your prayers and support!

We were definitely able to see each youth grow through Christ this weekend!

Good night and God Bless!

2011-06-28T11:11:00.001-04:00

Working hard today...mulching & weeding @ the parsonage. Off to Salvation Army and Animal shelter soon...

God is working!

2011-06-28T01:07:00.000-04:00

We have definitely seen God at work over the past three days! The two groups from WSUMC and FUMC have really come together well! We have made new friends and look forward to working with them again in the future! Today was an awesome day serving the Housing Coalition of Licking County. We helped them mulch, trim trees, weed, clean dishes and plant flowers. After a day of hard work, we we went swimming at Roger and Mary's where we ate an excellent dinner. Then we ended the day with an exceptional devotion about sharing our burdens with one another. Now it is off to bed so we can rest up for another day sharing God's love! :)

2011-06-27T21:38:00.001-04:00

Awesome pool party! We had a belly flop contest, splash contest and a b'day party for Olivia. Now, we are getting ready for devotions...:-)

2011-06-27T16:17:00.001-04:00

Done with a hard day of work, now showering and getting ready for a pool party...fun, fun!

2011-06-27T09:09:00.001-04:00

Beautiful morning in Newark....off to work for the Housing Coalition. It's going to be a great day!

Made it to Newark!

2011-06-26T22:53:00.000-04:00

We made it to Newark, had our evening devotion, and are just getting adjusted to our "new" home. Look for pictures to come a little later!

2011-06-26T17:09:00.001-04:00

Well, the rain slowed some work...but we still got some of church cleaned and ready for VBS. Now off to dinner at the Wepprichs. :-)

2011-06-26T10:37:00.001-04:00

Up and moving today...awesome worship. Now, back to work!

1 down...3 to go...

2011-06-26T00:24:00.000-04:00

Well, we have officially finished our first day of the mission trip. We have had an awesome time so far. We did a ton of work today and are ready for more tomorrow. We finished up the day with a Chillicothe Paints Game and awesome devotion! Off to bed to rest up for tomorrow!

2011-06-25T19:03:00.001-04:00

After a hard day of work and a yummy dinner we are off to the Chillicothe Paints Game!

Awesome first night...

2011-06-24T23:40:00.001-04:00

We have had an awesome start to our mission trip. We have met some great friends from Newark, Ohio. Off to bed so we can work hard tomorrow...

We have begun...

2011-06-24T20:57:00.000-04:00

The mission trip has begun...we are playing games and getting ready for our evening devotion as we watch this AWESOME video by Francis Chan:

T-Minus 1 Hour till the Mission Begins...

2011-06-24T18:00:00.000-04:00

See you in 1 hour @ the church! :)

T-Minus 4 Hours till the Mission Begins...

2011-06-24T15:00:00.001-04:00

See you in 4 Hours @ Church...are you Ready?

T-Minus 8 Hours till the Mission Begins

2011-06-24T11:00:00.001-04:00

See you in 8 hours at the church!

2011-06-23T20:43:00.001-04:00

Parents, follow us this weekend on our mission trip...we will be posting updates and photos as we serve Gods people.

We're on Facebook & Twitter

2011-06-23T20:06:00.002-04:00

This is so exciting, we are now on Facebook and Twitter...Make sure to follow us for the latest and greatest information.

2011-06-23T18:01:00.001-04:00

Get ready for the mission trip starting tomorrow at 7pm...keep up to date on whats happening here on our blog.

This Sunday and Upcoming Events

2011-05-05T22:46:00.000-04:00

We have a few busy weeks ahead of us with regard to our outreach in Yoctangee park. We can NOT pull this awesome event off without your help so please plan to attend as much as possible. Here is our schedule for the next few weeks:

Sunday, May 8th

4:00 PM – Hand out Flyers in the Park to advertise our May 22nd event- meet at the church @ 4pm

6-8:30 PM – No youth group; spend time with your mothers

Sunday, May 15th

4:00 PM – Hand out flyers in the Park to advertise our May 22nd event – meet at the church @ 4pm

6:00 PM – Middle School Youth

7:00 PM – High School Youth

Sunday, May 22nd

2:30 PM – Meet at Church to set up for outreach

4:00 PM – Outreach in the Park

7:00 PM – Clean up from Park outreach

Sunday, May 29th

6-8:30 PM – NO YOUTH Group Memorial Day Weekend

Sunday, June 5th

6:00 PM – Last Middle School Youth for School Year

7:00 PM – Last High School Youth for School Year

Saturday, June 11th

4:00 PM – Block Party as a follow up for the Outreach in Yoctangee Park – Youth will be organizing crafts…please help!

June 16th- 19th

Ichthus- More information coming soon….

June 24th- 28th

Mini- Mission Trip…We are still looking for adult female leaders….no experience necessary.

We are keeping busy…hope you can join us for as much as possible! We really need your help and look forward to your involvement. Let me know if you have any questions…

Holy Week Events and More

2011-04-17T22:04:00.002-04:00

Here are some things coming up this week…
On Wednesday April 20th, we will meet at the church at 4:30 pm to make Mac and Cheese and salad for dinner. Then at 5:00 pm we will go to Lincoln park to cook out hotdogs, and get set up. Then we will start with dinner at 5:30 pm followed by crafts and a short Easter Message. Lastly, then we will pass out Easter baskets. I know this is a Wednesday but many of you don’t have school the next day. We will be done by 7:30 pm for those who need to get home to bed.

On Saturday night, we will have an overnight for those who are participating in the Easter Sunrise Service. We will meet at the church at 8pm and work till 10 pm. Then we will go to bed no later than 10:45 so that we can be well rested for our 5:30 AM wake-up. If you are not going to be spending the night, we do need to you come to the rehearsal at 8pm to run through all aspects of the service before Sunday morning. Those who are not spending the night will need to be at the church by 5:30 AM. Please wear jeans and a spring colored shirt. If you want to change for the later services you may do so after our sunrise service. Don’t forget, breakfast will be served at 7:30 for those who want to stick around. I am really looking forward to this service, I am sure it will be great!

For the FUTURE…

1. Ichthus will be June 15-19th and we are not sure if we are going…if you are interested, please let Matt know. This is a music festival in Kentucky outside of Lexington and is an awesome event. This would cost about $125 and would be an awesome start to summer vacation. Let Matt know by May 1st if you are interested in going.

2. Mini Mission Trip – We will be doing a mini mission trip this summer in Chillicothe and then Newark, Ohio. The trip will be from June 24th (7pm) to June 28th (9 pm). I am trying hard to not have the cost exceed $50 and will include projects that help those who are in need. We will be joining together with First UMC in Newark for this event. If you would like to participate, I will need a $25 deposit by May 1st and is non-refundable unless your spot can be filled by others. Another major factor involved with this trip will be if I can get enough adult volunteers. I will need at least 4 adults (2 female and 2 males) to chaperone. Please let me know if you can help as a chaperone… remember parents, we need you even if you think your student doesn’t want you there. 

Let me know if you have any questions.

EASTER OUTREACH POSTPONED AND SOME OTHER ITEMS...

2011-04-06T22:07:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

First of all, I want to make sure that you are all aware that the Easter Outreach scheduled for this weekend has been postponed due to a scheduling conflict with the housing authority. I apologize for this last minute notice but we will NOT be meeting on Saturday. We WILL however be rescheduling this event to work in conjunction with our Snack and Learn program that is up and running at Lincoln Park on Monday’s and Wednesdays. Here is the new plan:
On Wednesday April 20th, we will meet at the church at 4:30 pm to make Mac and Cheese and salad for dinner. Then at 5:00 pm we will go to Lincoln park to cook out hotdogs, and get set up. Then we will start with dinner at 5:30 pm followed by crafts and a short Easter Message. Lastly, then we will pass out Easter baskets. I know this is a Wednesday but many of you don’t have school the next day. We will be done by 7:30 pm for those who need to get home to bed.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

BOWLING FOR KIDS SAKE…I have had very few people reply about participating in the bowling this Sunday at Shawnee Lanes. If you are planning to bowl and can get $50 in donations by Sunday that would be great!! I have told them we would have two teams and would hate to back out on them last minute. PLEASE PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED.

Thanks everyone for your help on Friday, we had a great turn out and an awesome time! We will definitely need to do Family Fun Night again! Mark your calendar for May 22nd for our Worship service in the park. We will need all hands on deck to pull off this awesome event to our community. Thanks again!

Have a great rest of the week!

REVOLVE TOUR UPDATED SCHEDULE

2011-03-22T20:26:00.000-04:00

Revolve Tour
March 25-26th
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Friday March 25th:
3:30 PM Meet at Walnut Street UMC
4:00 PM Depart for Columbus
Stop for Fast Food on the way
6:15 PM Arrive at Nationwide Arena
7:00 PM REVOLVE TOUR BEGINS!!!
9:30 PM Revolve Ends for the night
9:45 PM Head home to Chillicothe
11:00 PM Parents pick up at Walnut Street UMC

Saturday, March 26th
6:45 AM Light Breakfast Provided at Walnut Street UMC
7:00 AM Depart for Revolve
7:30 AM Breakfast at Hotel
9:00 AM REVOLVE TOUR
12 ish Lunch at the Arena
4:00 PM Revolve Ends ;(
6:00 PM Arrive back at Walnut Street UMC

Tubing Trip on Saturday

2011-02-03T17:48:00.002-05:00

After some consideration with how many students we have interested in tubing and the options available to us through the different resorts, I have decided that this Saturday we will only do a tubing trip. Here is the information:

When: Saturday, February 5th
Where: Snow Trails Ski Area
Time: Meet at 11am at church (please bring a sack lunch for car ride)
Return: 8:30-9:00 pm
Cost: $35
RSVP: Please respond by Thursday so I can make sure I have enough drivers….

If you are interested in going skiing at a later date, let me know and I will see how much interest we have and find a later date and time to go.

The $35 includes dinner on the trip home...

Revolve Tour 2011

2011-01-02T10:34:00.002-05:00

Revolve Tour
March 25-26th
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Cost: $75 (talk to Matt if you need assistance)

Friday March 25th:
3:30 PM Meet at Walnut Street UMC
4:00 PM Depart for Columbus
Stop for Fast Food on the way
6:15 PM Arrive at Nationwide Arena
7:00 PM REVOLVE TOUR BEGINS!!!
9:30 PM Revolve Ends for the night
Depart for Hotel ( we will fundraise for this)
10:15 PM Spend night at Hotel

Saturday, Marrch 26th
7:00 AM Wake Up!!!
7:30 AM Breakfast at Hotel
8:15 AM Depart for Nationwide Arena
9:00 AM REVOLVE TOUR
12 ish Lunch at the Arena
4:00 PM Revolve Ends ;(
6:00 PM Arrive back at Walnut Street UMC

RSVP to MATT BALLENTINE by January 12th:

740-649-6017 Cell

740-779-6352 Home

youth@walnutstreetumc.com

Resurrection 2011

2011-01-02T10:05:00.003-05:00

Resurrection 2011
January 21-23rd

Plan to arrive at the church between 11:30 & 12. Matt will be getting here around 11:45 as he gets out of school at 11:30. Ideally, we will leave around 12.

Bring with you the trip fee of $115 (please let me know if you need assistance with the cost) and a permission form, if Matt doesn’t already have one for you.

Things to bring:

1. All the stuff you need for two night stay (clothes, pj’s, etc…), you don’t need bedding as we will be staying in a hotel.
2. Bible
3. Note pad
4. Money for food (Friday Dinner, Saturday Dinner, all the rest included)
5. Money for any other souvenirs you may want…
6. Favorite Pillow or stuffed animal

We will return between 5 & 6 pm on Sunday January 23rd (we will call when we are close to the church).

It will be an awesome weekend for everyone; I am really looking forward to it. Please don’t bring anything on the trip that is of questionable nature.

RSVP BY January 12th to MATT via cell phone # or email: youth@walnutstreetumc.com

Contact Info:

Hotel
Reagan Resorts
865-436-5607

The "F" Word

2010-11-30T16:47:00.000-05:00

“Peter replied, ‘Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ –Acts 2:37-38

The “F” word is a word many people shy away from. It’s seen as low, humiliating, embarrassing, and it can ruin your reputation. This word is ‘forgiveness.’ Forgiving is an art not practiced very often nowadays, and one seen as weakness or cowardice, even lame. “Just brush it off, they’ll get over it” or “It’s over already, too late,” are common excuses to not man up and ask forgiveness. Can you imagine what would happen to us if Jesus used one of those excuses?

After being tortured beyond recognition, while hanging on the cross on the brink of death, Jesus cried out to God, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing!” (Luke 23:34). Even after being betrayed by His own people, persecuted, and now being mocked and scorned for being the Truth while barely hanging onto His last few moments of life, He still had the strength to forgive.

Forgiveness is a very difficult thing; it’s putting aside petty feelings of hatred and loving someone who has done you wrong in spite of the circumstances. Think of the Prodigal Son, who went on his own, spent his inheritance, then crawled back to his father, asking only to be a servant, declaring himself unworthy. This parable is a picture of us, in our sinful ways, crawling back to Christ our Father and asking Him for forgiveness. But in order to be forgiven, we must accept we have done something wrong.

Forgiveness is widely recognized by the general population as a necessary part of the healing process. It’s the same with the salvation process also, meaning yes, we have done something wrong, against Jesus. Thankfully, Jesus always forgives us if we repent, and we are welcomed into His loving arms. There are many people who need forgiveness in their life, as do we. One of the greatest commandments given is to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Would you want to be forgiven for something you have done wrong? Are you ready to show God’s love through your forgiveness? Are you willing to forgive today?

Retrieved from www.tddm.org, author unknown.

Awesome Video Reminding us of our AWESOME GOD!

2010-11-09T09:37:00.001-05:00

Here is a funny video about Halloween Candy...

2010-10-26T23:56:00.002-04:00

High School Kings Island...October 23rd

2010-10-11T09:49:00.000-04:00

On October 23rd, the High School youth will be going to Kings Island for Howl-O-Fest. We will be meeting at the church at 2:30 pm and returning around 3:30 AM. The cost for this trip is $35 plus food. We will make a stop on the way there and back at fast food for those who would like to avoid paying a lot for food. Once we arrive home, you can crash at the church for the night so that you don't have to worry about your parents picking you up in the middle of the night. If you want to go, let Matt know by October 17th.

Corn Maze Info...

2010-10-05T13:07:00.000-04:00

Middle School will be going to the Corn Maze on Sunday. The cost for this trip is going to be $15 and includes admission to the maze. If you wish to pick a pumpkin while we are there, that will be additional cost. We will be leaving directly after church and returning at approximately 6 pm. The corn maze is located in Bellbrook, Ohio (about 1 hour and 15 min away). Check out more about the maze at www.myadventureacres.com . See you Sunday!

The Church is like THE OFFICE

2010-10-05T13:02:00.000-04:00

I found this in Devozine and thought it was cool so I wanted to share it with you. Want a Devozine? They are in the youth room for you to pick up...

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2 (NRSV)

When I first started watching The Office, I couldn’t stand it. The embarrassing humor made me anxious and tense, but pretty soon I began to enjoy the show. The situations that Michael Scott and his crew get into have a kind of deep honesty about them. These co-workers who “work” together (do they actually ever work?) are truly themselves with one another. They don’t try to hide who they are; they let it show -- warts and all.

The brokenness of each character is revealed in almost every episode; yet somehow these office mates find a way to continue working together. I used to wonder why everyone didn’t just quit and get out of that crazy place; but as I continued to watch, I realized the answer: Where else could these people truly be that transparent and authentic and still have a role to play?

Isn’t that a great picture of the church? What if the church were a place where you didn’t have to hide the messy parts of your life but could still be loved and have an important role to play? Would you keep coming back to work and worship in such a place? Absolutely! <

By:
Tom Arthur

Church Picnic

2010-09-25T12:04:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, September 26th, remember we don't have youth group. We will be meeting at Yoctangee Park for the church picnic. The picnic will go from 4-7 pm; bring a dish to share. Also bring any games you want to play.

NEW CALENDAR

2010-09-20T23:32:00.000-04:00

The fall calendar is available. Click on the link to the right to view all the events we have coming up this fall! Hope to see you there!

Homes of Hope...Vote Daily

2010-09-06T21:44:00.001-04:00

We have an awesome outreach that has been started in Chillicothe and they need our help. Homes of Hope which helps families get their feet back on the ground has put together a video for the Pepsi, Refresh Everything campaign where they are giving out money to charities who win. Homes of Hope is up for $250,000 but we need to vote daily for them. You can vote two ways, first you can go to the website; http://www.refresheverything.com/homesofhoperosscountyohio and vote or you can, Text 102588 to Pepsi. Remember you can vote everyday! Don't forget!

Upcoming Events...

2010-08-30T15:57:00.002-04:00

Here are some upcoming events...

September 12th 5:30-7:00 PM - Make sure to wear your old clothes...we are about to get MESSY!!! SEE YOU THERE!

September 19th - 5:00 PM - Parents Meeting (Distribute calendar, permission forms, etc...)
5:30 - 7:00 PM Youth Group

September 26th - Church Picnic @ Yoctangee Park 4-7 PM

Pool Party

2010-08-24T15:32:00.000-04:00

There is a pool party for anyone who wants to come on August 29th at the Smith's House on Golfview Drive. We will be meeting at their house at 3 pm and stay until ??? whenever you need to leave. We will provide hamburgers and hot dogs if you all can bring something to share...chips, pop, dessert, etc. Make sure you bring your swim suit, towel and food. Can't wait to see you there!

Kayaking Cancelled...

2010-08-19T14:29:00.000-04:00

I am sorry to have to inform you that the kayaking trip that we scheduled for tomorrow is cancelled due to the fact that I don’t have enough adults. I am going to see if I can find enough adults to go on a Saturday in the near future to reschedule this event however, I am not sure as of right now when that will be. Sorry…

Don’t forget, service project on Linn street will be after church on Sunday. We will have pizza at noon and head over to get to work around 12:30. We need as many hands as possible. Look forward to your help…

Kayaking on Paint Creek

2010-08-16T15:02:00.000-04:00

On Friday August 20th, we will be going kayaking on Paint Creek…maybe. The cost for this trip will be $40 per person whether you want to be in a Kayak or a Canoe. We will meet at the church at 8:00 AM and will return sometime around 3:00 PM. The reason I say maybe, is that I am still in need of adults to go on this trip. As of right now, I only have one adult set to go. If any parents are able to go or you know of someone 21 or older let me know. If you are interested in this trip, RSVP to me by Wednesday. Lunch for this trip is provided in the cost.

Service Project

2010-08-16T15:01:00.002-04:00

On Sunday August 22nd we will be helping out a woman on Linn Street after church. She is in need of yard work/ clean-up. We will be having pizza for lunch right after church and then will head on over to the house in the church van. Please let me know if you are able to help. Make sure that you bring work clothes to church as well as a long sleeve shirt and gloves. We will be done some time around 5pm (if not earlier). Hope to see you there!

Kayaking on Paint Creek

2010-08-09T13:37:00.000-04:00

Look for more information about our kayaking trip on Paint Creek. It will be on Friday, August 20th. Details to come soon...

VBS POOL PARTY!!!!

2010-08-06T12:01:00.000-04:00

Don't forget, this Sunday from 6-9 PM at the city pool, we will be having a pool party for anyone you can bring. Food will be served from 6-7 PM and swimming will be from 7-9 PM. See you there!

Lake White Trip is STILL ON...

2010-08-05T08:48:00.000-04:00

It may be raining outside right now but the Lake White trip is still on. After taking some time to look at the weather, it appears that the t-storms will pass over this morning and this afternoon will be SUNNY! See you at the church at 12:00 (noon). Don't forget your towel, change of clothes, snack to share, and sunscreen! See you in a bit!

HEAVY - Get Help to Lift

2010-08-02T22:00:00.002-04:00

Galatians 6:2

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

You would think I would get the hang of packing for the airlines after a few trips, but it only seems to be moving from bad to worse. After each trip I make mental notes: 1) Do not pack that item again, you didn't use it anyway. 2) Don't forget these items; it would have been nice to have them along. The last two trips my suitcase came back to me marked with an orange tag: HEAVY Get Help To Lift.

Now, I knew my suitcase was heavy, but was it really necessary to inform all my fellow travelers standing around the carousel?

Wouldn't it be helpful if hurting people were as easily identifiable as tagged suitcases? They know their burdens are heavy. Sometimes so heavy they can hardly lift themselves out of bed in the morning. But how can others know they are hurting? Maybe these people, maybe you and I, should begin clearly marking our oppressive days with an orange tag: HEAVY BURDENS Need Help to Lift!

There's no guesswork in the Bible on if we should help carry each other's burdens. Galatians 6:2 commands us to do so, Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

The question is how do we obey that command without the use of orange tags identifying those who need help with their heartaches and burdens? Let's again go to the Bible for God's Word on burden lifting.
Ask the Holy Spirit to clothe you with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience (Colossians 3:12). Have the attitude of Christ, looking not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2). Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Would orange tags make it easier to identify the hurting people in our corner of the world? It certainly would. But is it the best option? No, God always provides the best way. Follow God's commands for burden lifting, imitate Christ's example in how He reached out to others, and let the Spirit lead and guide as you go about the task you've been called to: being a burden lifter for others.

Hide and Seek

2010-07-27T11:41:00.000-04:00

Jeremiah 29:13

“ And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Do you remember when you were little and you would play a game of hide and seek? One thing I remember vividly is the way it felt when I was “IT”. I can sum it up in one word: Lonely. I used to dread having to look for people, but I loved the feeling I got when I found the first person. It meant that I was no longer “IT.” The person whom I had found now had my burden and became “IT” on the next round. Is it coming back to you yet?

The Bible records the ultimate game of Hide and Seek. We are lonely, lost and sick of being “IT.” We are desperate for an encounter with God. Just like in the game, if we search for God diligently we will find Him. Except unlike the game, God is not hiding from us. When we find Him he then takes our sin burden and carries it away, In response we repent and turn away from our sins. God gives us every capability to find Him. One way to start is through His Word. It is a reassuring feeling to know that I will never be “IT” again in my relationship to God.

Isaiah 55:6-7

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him; and to our God for he will abundantly pardon.”

A Day @ Lake White...Details

2010-07-27T11:19:00.001-04:00

On Thursday, August 5th, we will be going to John and Cheryl Henricks at Lake White. This will be an awesome day filled with boating, swimming, food, campfire and s'mores. We will be meeting in the church parking lot at 12:00 PM (eat lunch before you come). We will then head to Lake White and spend all afternoon and evening there. We should arrive home around 10 PM after eating dinner and making s'mores. Here's what you need to bring:

Swim Suit
Towel
Sun Screen
Change of Clothes
Snack food to share

Can't wait to see you there!

Walnut Street Youth have a new name...

2010-07-16T22:26:00.003-04:00

We have decided to be a little more creative than just calling our youth group Walnut Street Youth...our youth group will now be called "Driven." Indicating that there is someone who drives all of our decisions. Who might that be? you ask, Jesus Christ. As we look forward as a group, we look to Christ to DRIVE all our decisions. Hope you like our new identity...

A Day @ Lake White

2010-07-13T23:17:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendars...on August 5th, we will be going to John and Cheryl Henricks for a day at Lake White. We will have the opportunity to ride their boats, swim in the lake and just hang out with each other. More details will be coming soon.

God's Plan

2010-07-13T23:14:00.000-04:00

1Chronicles 28:19

"All this," David said, "I have in writing from the hand of the LORD upon me, and he gave me understanding in all the details of the plan."

This passage is taken from the story of when King David was telling his son Solomon about the plans, for building a temple, that God had given David. The bible has a lot to say about God having plans for our lives. The place of discovery of what God’s plans are begins with seeking him first in our lives. David said the Lord gave him the plan when God’s hand was upon him. This means that David was in the presence of the Lord close enough to God for his hand to be upon him. Through out the entire bible God is continually speaking to his chosen followers. He is still the same today as he was then. He still gives plans and direction for our lives. We are to draw near to God and then he will draw near to us. Consider making a commitment today to spend the next 30 days drawing near to the Lord. Find a quiet place everyday to be alone with God, a place where you can be still and free from distractions. Can you do it?

Zoombezi Bay

2010-07-09T14:01:00.002-04:00

As the weather is getting really, really hot outside, it is time
for some cooling off! On Thursday July 15th, we will be heading to Zoombezi
Bay with the youth group. This trip is open to anyone student who is
entering grades 6-12 and wants to have a day of fun. As always, families
are also welcome to join us with the parent/guardians attending as well.
The cost for the trip will be $40 and includes travel, admission, lunch and
dinner for the day. We will be departing the church parking lot at 9:45 AM
on July 15th and returning at approximately 8:30 PM. Call Matt to let him
know if you plan to go by Wednesday July 14th (so we can have enough
vehicles), 740-774-7222. Don’t miss this awesome event!

Icthus anyone?

2010-04-27T15:44:00.002-04:00

On June 16-20th we will have a group of people going to the Icthus Music Festival in Wilmore, KY. If you are finishing up 7th grade or above, you are welcome to join us on your own for those who are younger, a parent must accompany you on the trip. This is an awesome event that combines camping, cooking out, great testimonies by awesome speakers and tons of awesome Christian music. Bands like Casting Crowns, Newsboys, Skillet, Superchick and many more will be there! The cost for this event will be approximately $125 (could be less depending on group size) and includes your food and event admission. Icthus is open to all families of the church. This is an event you won’t want to miss… If you have any interest in attending, please let Matt know by April 30th (so I can order the early bird tickets…) If you need more time to decide, you may also let me know after that date. I just need a rough estimate.

Middle School Lock-in Changed!

2010-04-27T15:26:00.001-04:00

Due to many conflicts on the calendar for the Middle School Lock-in on May7-8th, we have decided to change this lock-in till June 4-5th from 7pm - 8am. Make sure you change your calendar.

30 Hour Famine Schedule

2010-04-15T08:38:00.000-04:00

30 Hour Famine Schedule
April 16-17, 2010

April 16th

6:00 PM Opening Activities

8:00 PM Video Segment
Discussion

8:45 PM Water Break

9:00 PM Games

10:00 PM Prayer Walk

11:00 PM Devotion

11:30 PM Get Ready for Bed…

11:45 PM Lights Out

April 17th

8:00 AM Wakey, Wakey…

8:30 AM Morning Walk for Water

9:45 AM Water Break

10:00 AM Service Projects/ Outreach

2:00 PM Games

3:00 PM Video Segment

3:30 PM Grocery Shopping

4:30 PM Dinner Preparation

5:30 PM Closing Worship

6:00 PM Breaking the Fast

7:00 PM Depart

Loving God...

2010-04-11T21:44:00.000-04:00

Psalms 18:1

I LOVE you fervently and devotedly, O Lord, my Strength

Being a follower of Christ is so much more than just attending church. The bible says to love the Lord with all your heart, mind soul and strength. (Mark12:30) When we are in love with someone, we express to them by our actions and words “I love you” on a daily basis. As we begin to establish our relationship with God, eventually we should reach this place where “I love you” is a daily expression to him in thought, words and actions. Whenever we fall in love with someone we must first spend time with them, getting to know them, it works the same way with the Lord. Spending time with the Lord means that we talk to him regularly, we read the bible often and we do the things that God likes to do as well as include him in things we like to do. Take time to sincerely tell God, I love you, he deserves to receive our expressions of love, and he also requires it.

How can we share our FAITH?

2010-03-25T23:07:00.000-04:00

You know that sharing Christ with your friends is important. But it can also be pretty scary. What do you say? What will they think?

"Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel." (Ezra 7:10)

A few years ago, I had some friends who weren't Christians, but I had no idea how to witness to them. Those friends were really lost. They were caught up in swearing, sex, drugs and whatever else they could find to fill the emptiness of not having Jesus in their lives. If I had known the Bible better a few years ago, I could have tried to help them know Jesus.

When the book of Ezra was written, the Israelites were coming back from Babylon after living as captives. Their children no longer knew God's law. Ezra felt called to help get Israel back on track, but instead of just teaching others about God's law, he spent time studying it himself. He made sure he understood it before trying to tell others about it.

We can all learn a lot from Ezra's example. It's really important that we take time to study God's Word and know it. Then we can be better witnesses to our friends.

What About You?

1) If someone asked you a tough question about the Bible, would you know how to find the answer?

2) Think of some questions non-Christians might have about God. Then search your Bible and talk with your parents or youth pastor to find some answers.

3) Ask God to help you live out the things you learn as you read your Bible.

Easter Sunrise Service

2010-03-24T00:33:00.002-04:00

Don't forget, we are responsible for the Easter Sunrise service on 4-4-10. If you want, you can stay @ the church Sat. night. We will meet at 8 pm so we are there in plenty of time for the 6:30 am service.

Our Mission/Vision

2010-03-22T13:14:00.000-04:00

Mission Statement
To develop the youth to be true disciples—to fulfill the Great Commission, and to follow,
imitate, and pursue Christ. To help them discover their calling, be made whole,
and equip them to do the work of God.

Vision Statement
To raise up our youth as ambassadors for Christ that are totally fulfilled by Him and
not by what the world has to offer. We want to make disciples who have a fresh and
consistent walk with God for a lifetime.