en A RECONCILING IN CHRIST Congregation http://www.ctkvestal.org © Copyright 2000 - 2010Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=216 During the summer, our Sunday morning schedule changes, with traditional worship at 9:00 and progressive worship at 10:30. On Sunday, September 13 (the Sunday after Labor Day), we'll return to our regular schedule, with worship at 9:00 and 11:15 and Sunday School for all ages at 10:10. A.M. Have a great summer! Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:31:37 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=321 Here's a new Bible reading for each day, from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. If you like, you can have it sent to you in email form each day; click on "Subscribe" below. Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:23:56 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=294 We're glad you've found our website! It will tell you a lot about Christ The King. Want to learn more? Take a look at the latest newsletter Join our email news list Better yet, come and visit on a Sunday morning! We hope this is the beginning of a long and meaningful relationship! Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:23:56 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=309 Here's a feature that Fox 40 News did recently, as a group of 10 students and 3 adults from Christ The King got ready to leave on a week-long Workcamp trip. Workcamp is an annual event at Christ The King, and a highlight of the year for our young people (and their adult mentors!). Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:23:56 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=13 Most of the Messages are in ".pdf" format, and require the free Adobe Reader. 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | Earlier Messages TitleDatePresented By2010 Farewell Message Jun 27 Mark and Nadine Ridley A Time of Fear or a Time of Hope Jun 13 Nadine Ridley Where Are Your Wounds? Jun 6 Mark Ridley Rest for the Weary May 30 Nadine Ridley Babel Overthrown (Pentecost) May 23 Mark Ridley The Least of These May 16 Nadine Ridley Real Women in a Real World (Mother's Day) May 9 Nadine Ridley Wise, Foolish or Evil? May 2 Mark Ridley Prevailing Prayer Apr 25 Mark Ridley Show Me! Apr 11 Nadine Ridley Easter Joy Apr 4 Mark Ridley Palm Sunday: Why Didn't He Say Something? Mar 28 Nadine Ridley Core Values 5: Stewardship Mar 21 Mark Ridley Core Values 4: CommunityMar 14 Nadine Ridley Core Values 3: TransformationMar 7 Mark Ridley Core Values 2: HealingFeb 28 Nadine Ridley The Languages of LoveFeb 14 Mark Ridley A Guest in a Holy PlaceFeb 7 Nadine Ridley The Christ The King CrossJan 31 Mark Ridley Conversations with GodJan 24 Nadine Ridley New WineskinsJan 17 Mark Ridley The Sign on the BusJan 10 Nadine Ridley An Agreeable Possibility Jan 3 Mark Ridley Mon, 21 Jun 2010 03:00:15 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=31 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=31&article_id=28 Church Council is a group of members, elected by the congregation, who supervise the day-to-day operations of the church. Our current Church Council members are: Kyle Brown, President Cathy Gould, Vice-President Linda Truman, Financial Secretary Eric Donaldson, Treasurer David Banner Irene DeMetros Wendi Eames Evelyn Goetz Steve Johnson John Lurenz Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:38:55 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=26&article_id=24 At Christ The King, we have an experienced and committed staff of professionals who are here to serve our church family and our community. Angie Roux is our Director of Youth Ministries. Julie Sifert is our Director of Children's Ministries.Our Church Administrator is Beth Quattrociocchi . The Director of Music for our 9:00 service is Jim Ford.Lukus Wells is director of music for our Progressive Worship Service. Our Nursery Supervisor is Jane Davis.Our Sexton (Janitor) is Gary Robertson. What We Believe Mission/Vision/Values The Wider Church Fri, 4 Jun 2010 13:28:48 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=102 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=102&article_id=300 Most of the Messages are in ".pdf" format, and require the free Adobe Reader. Current | 2009 | 2007 | Earlier Messages TitleDatePresented By2008God's AnswerDec 28Mark RidleyChristmas According to Luke: Mary and GabrielDec 7Nadine RidleyChristmas According to Luke: Zechariah/ElizabethNov 30Mark RidleyThe Least of TheseNov 23Nadine RidleyA Shovel or a Teaspoon?Nov 16Nadine RidleyLight in the DarknessNov 9Mark RidleyEveryday HeroesNov 2Nadine RidleyThe Reformation Begins Right HereOct 26Mark RidleyWhy We GiveOct 19Mark RidleyWhy We PrayOct 12Nadine RidleyWhy We Celebrate CommunionOct 5Mark RidleyWhy We ServeSep 28Nadine RidleyWhy We WorshipSep 21Mark RidleyWhy We SingSep 14Mark RidleyPassing It OnSep 14Nadine RidleySeeing the PoorSep 7Mark RidleyAn Active BlessingAug 31Nadine RidleyTrying to Make Sense of It AllAug 24Mark RidleyWhen Christians Go AstrayAug 17Mark RidleySome Lessons Learned on My SabbaticalAug 10Nadine RidleyDiscover Recovery 7: Serving OthersMay 11Mark RidleyDiscover Recovery 6: Relating to GodMay 4Nadine RidleyDiscover Recovery 5: ReconcilingApr 27Nadine RidleyDiscover Recovery 4: RepentingApr 20Mark RidleyDiscover Recovery 3: ConfessingApr 13Mark RidleyDiscover Recovery 2: SurrenderingApr 6Nadine RidleyDiscover Recovery 1: Admitting We Are PowerlessMar 30Mark RidleyEaster 2008: An Easter EarthquakeMar 23 Nadine Ridley40 Days with Jesus 7: Worst-Case ScenariosMar 16 Mark Ridley40 Days with Jesus 5: Don't Worry - Be HappyMar 2 Nadine Ridley40 Days with Jesus 4: Secret FaithFeb 24Mark Ridley40 Days with Jesus 3: A Kingdom HeartFeb 17Nadine Ridley40 Days with Jesus 2: Fulfilling the LawFeb 10Mark RidleyAsh Wednesday 2008Feb 6Nadine Ridley40 Days with Jesus 1: The BeatitudesFeb 3Mark RidleyJesus' Ministry - and OursJan 27Mark RidleyLiving Your LifeJan 20Nadine RidleyWilderness TestsJan 13Nadine Ridley Thu, 14 Jan 2010 10:17:43 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=97 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=97&article_id=280 Most of the Messages are in ".pdf" format, and require the free Adobe Reader. Current | 2009 | 2008 | Earlier Messages TitleDatePresented By2007Martin Luther's Christmas SermonDec 30M/N RidleyLearning from the GrinchDec 24Mark RidleyChristmas According to Matthew: Pt. 4Dec 23Nadine RidleyChristmas According to Matthew: Pt. 3Dec 16Mark RidleyChristmas According to Matthew: Pt. 2Dec 9Nadine RidleyChristmas According to Matthew: Pt. 1Dec 2Mark RidleyGiving ThanksNov 25Nadine RidleyA Family ThanksgivingNov 18Nadine RidleyPersonal Reflections on GivingNov 11Mark RidleyAtheism 5: Belief Is BarbaricNov 4Nadine RidleyAtheism 3: Belief Is UnscientificOct 21Mark RidleyAtheism 2: Belief Is DangerousOct 14Mark RidleyAtheism 1: Belief Is IrrationalOct 7Mark RidleyOne Life to LiveSep 23Nadine RidleyYou Give Them Something to EatSep 16Mark RidleyI Believe; Help My UnbeliefSep 2Mark RidleyNow What Do I Say?Aug 26Nadine RidleyWater, Wine and BreadAug 19Mark RidleyDoing What You Do Best Skills and Interests Inventory Jul 22Nadine RidleyInterruptionsJul 15Mark RidleyA God-given PassionJul 8Nadine RidleyYour Spiritual GiftsJul 1Mark RidleyGifts, Just Waiting to Be OpenedJun 24Mark RidleyJust a Little Time (Fathers' Day)Jun 17Nadine RidleyHealing PrayerJun 10Mark RidleyThe Myth of the Happy Meal Jun 3Nadine RidleySecond Wind May 27Mark RidleyAmerican Idols: Celebrities May 20Nadine RidleyAmerican Idols: Family May 13Mark RidleyAmerican Idols: Beauty May 6Nadine RidleyAmerican Idols: Sex Apr 29Mark RidleyAmerican Idols: Money Apr 15Mark RidleyEaster Changes Everything Apr 8Mark RidleyMaking Jesus CryApr 1Mark RidleyGod Loves You Mar 25Nadine RidleyWho Needs Jesus?Mar 18Mark RidleyEvangelism That Works Mar 11Nadine RidleyThe Incredible Shrinking Church Mar 4Mark RidleyWorship and PrayerFeb 25Nadine RidleyHide and Seek for Adults Feb 18Mark RidleyWorship 101 Feb 11Mark RidleyThe Years the Locusts Have Eaten Feb 4Mark RidleyBe the Body Jan 28Nadine RidleyThe St. Paul's Story Jan 21Mark RidleyBanquet Etiquette Jan 14Mark RidleyCreating Community Jan 7Nadine Ridley Thu, 14 Jan 2010 10:03:46 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=98 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=98&article_id=281 Most of the Messages are in ".pdf" format, and require the free Adobe Reader. Current Messages | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 TitleDatePresented By2006Two ChristmasesDec 24Mark Ridley"Silent Night"Dec 24Mark Ridley"It Came upon the Midnight Clear"Dec 17Nadine Ridley"Of the Father's Love Begotten"Dec 10Mark Ridley"O, Come, O, Come, Emmanuel"Dec 3Nadine RidleyRadical HospitalityNov 26Nadine RidleyHoly Thanks (Thanksgiving)Nov 21Nadine RidleyMarching Off the MapNov 19Nadine RidleyThe Anatomy of HypocrisyNov 12Mark RidleyLazarus LaughingNov 5Nadine RidleyFaith Without SacrificeOct 29Mark RidleyGod's Financial PlanOct 22Mark RidleySaying "Yes" to GodOct 15Nadine RidleyA Spiritual Check-UpOct 8Mark RidleyFaith and FriendsSep 24Mark RidleyFear Not, Little FlockSep 17Mark RidleyPassing the TorchSep 10 Nadine RidleyHaving a Shepherd; Being a SheepAug 27Mark RidleyYour Questions: How Can I Keep Hope Alive?Aug 20Nadine RidleyYour Questions: What Is God Like?Aug 13Mark RidleyYour Questions: Does God Heal Today?Aug 6Nadine RidleyYour Questions: Life After Death?Jul 23Mark RidleyYour Questions: Jesus and the End Times?Jul 16Nadine RidleyIn All ThingsJul 2Mark RidleyYour Questions: Hard Sayings?Jun 25Mark RidleyYour Questions: Old and New Testaments?Jun 18Nadine RidleyYour Questions: How Can We Interpret the Bible?Jun 11Mark RidleyJust the BeginningJun 11Nadine RidleyJesus and WomenMay 28Mark RidleyLeaving HomeMay 21Nadine RidleyDecoding Jesus: The Da Vinci Code May 14Mark RidleyThe Waiting Game May 7Nadine Ridley"Do You Love Me?" Apr 30Mark RidleyEaster: Do Not Cling to Me Apr 16Mark RidleyGood Friday: A Man for Others Apr 14Nadine RidleyMaundy Thursday: Foot-Washing Apr 13Mark RidleyLent 6: What Is Truth? Apr 9Nadine RidleyLent 5: Cleaning House Apr 2Mark RidleyLent 4: The Four-Day Darkness Mar 26Mark RidleyLent 3: Creating a Clean Heart Mar 19Nadine RidleyLent 2: Jesus and Nicodemus Mar 12Mark RidleyLent 1: The Other Brother Mar 5 Nadine RidleyAsh Wednesday: Journeying Toward the LightMar 1 Mark RidleyCross Training II Feb 26 Mark RidleyCross Training I Feb 19Nadine RidleySpring TrainingFeb 12Mark RidleyJonah: A Reluctant ProphetJan 29Nadine RidleyLike Sheep Without a ShepherdJan 22Mark RidleyThree Dimensions of a Complete LifeJan 15Nadine RidleyJourney of the MagiJan 8Mark RidleyThe Gift of TimeJan 1Nadine Ridley2005 Have a Defiant ChristmasDec 25Mark RidleyWhen God Became HumanDec 24Mark RidleyAslan Is on the MoveDec 18Nadine RidleyTurkish DelightDec 11Mark RidleyA World Without ChristmasDec 4Nadine RidleyThe Land Beyond the WardrobeNov 27Mark RidleyLuther's Dark SideNov 20Nadine RidleyLuther's Three Great DiscoveriesNov 13Mark RidleyMeet Martin LutherOct 30Mark RidleyCore Values 5: StewardshipOct 23Nadine RidleyCore Values 4: CommunityOct 16Mark RidleyCore Values 3: Transformation - Part 2Oct 9Nadine RidleyCore Values 3: Transformation - Part 1Oct 2Mark RidleyCore Values 2: HealingSep 25Nadine RidleyCore Values 1: Acceptance Sep 18Mark RidleyThe Gospel According to Abner Doubleday Aug 21Mark RidleyLiving the Hyphen to the Full Aug 14Mark RidleyFashion Sense Aug 7Nadine RidleyListen, for God's Sake! Jul 31Mark RidleyIt's Not Fair! Jul 24Nadine RidleyWeeds and Wheat Jul 17Mark RidleyIt All Comes Down to Love Jul 10Nadine RidleyMeet St. Matthew Jul 3Mark RidleyI Want to Know Jesus Jun 26Mark RidleyTwo Fathers Jun 19Mark RidleyThe Second Touch Jun 12Nadine RidleyFoundations of Faith Jun 5Nadine RidleySelective Memory May 29Mark Ridley Thu, 14 Jan 2010 10:03:03 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=111 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=111&article_id=324 Most of the Messages are in ".pdf" format, and require the free Adobe Reader. Current | 2008 | 2007 | Earlier Messages TitleDatePresented By2009 Advent 4: Together in the DarknessDec 20Nadine Ridley Advent 3: Promises in the DarknessDec 13Mark Ridley Advent 2: Songs in the DarknessDec 6Nadine Ridley Advent 1: Stories in the DarknessNov 29Mark Ridley From a DistanceNov 22Mark Ridley Giving to GodNov 15Nadine Ridley The River of LifeNov 8Mark Ridley A Great Cloud of WitnessesNov 1Nadine Ridley The Shelf Life of GraceOct 25Mark Ridley What Storms Can BringOct 18Mark Ridley Jesus and the Canaanite WomanOct 11Nadine Ridley God's Family ReunionOct 4Mark Ridley Loving ExtravagantlySep 27Nadine RidleyThe Book of FaithSep 20Mark RidleySymbols and StoriesSep 13Nadine RidleyParables: The Lost SheepAug 2Nadine RidleyParables: The Two SonsJul 26Mark RidleyParables: The Four SoilsJul 19Mark RidleyParables: The Workers in the VineyardJul 12Nadine RidleyTwo KingdomsJul 5Mark RidleyNew BeginningsJun 28Nadine RidleyPrayer as a Path to GodJun 21Mark RidleyChristian CaregivingJun 7Nadine RidleyWhat's Gotten into You?May 31Nadine RidleySurviving 6: Surviving Spiritual DoubtsMay 24Mark RidleySurviving 5: Surviving Job Loss or InsecurityMay 17Mark RidleySurviving 4: Surviving Chronic IllnessMay 10Nadine RidleySurviving 3: Surviving an Economic MeltdownMay 3Mark RidleySurviving 2: Surviving a Dysfunctional Family Apr 26Nadine RidleyEaster HopeApr 12Nadine RidleyChristian Healing 6: The Healing of Grief and DeathApr 5Mark RidleyChristian Healing 4: The Healing of RelationshipsMar 22Nadine RidleyChristian Healing 3: Tough Questions About HealingMar 15Mark RidleyChristian Healing 2: Physical HealingMar 8Nadine RidleyChristian Healing 1: Jesus, the HealerMar 1Mark RidleyFacing New Realities 4: The InternetFeb 22Mark RidleyFacing New Realities 3: The Changing FamilyFeb 15Nadine RidleyFacing New Realities 2: New Rules for SexualityFeb 8Mark RidleyFacing New Realities 1: The Changing WorkplaceFeb 1Nadine RidleyMarks of a Great ChurchJan 25Mark RidleyFaith and FriendsJan 18Mark RidleyThe BodyJan 11Nadine RidleyChristmas According to Luke: Simeon and AnnaJan 4Mark Ridley Thu, 14 Jan 2010 10:01:18 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=51 At Christ The King, we've identified four basic types of small groups. They're all important, but each has a different purpose. K-Groups. Back in New Testament times, the first Christians discovered what the Bible calls koinonia, a Greek word variously translated as "fellowship," "community," "communion," "intimacy" and "friendship." As Christians experienced that koinonia with each other, they also grew into koinonia with God (1 John 1:3, 6-7; Phil. 1:5; 2:1). At Christ The King, our K-Groups (short for Koinonia Groups) are designed to help group members experience the same koinonia that energized the early church -- the same growing intimacy and deepening fellowship, with each other and with God. Interest Groups. These groups are similar to K-Groups, except that people come together around a common interest. That interest can be almost anything, from serious Bible study to learning how to fish or play bridge! What's important is that friendships are made and lives are shared. Support/Recovery Groups. Our Support/Recovery Groups meet to address a shared concern (support) or a crippling need (recovery). Relationship-building still takes place in these groups, but the primary focus is on helping participants deal with their specific concerns or needs. Examples include Divorce Recovery, Family Matters (a group for parents) and Coping with Loss. Ministry Teams. Another type of group at Christ The King is the Ministry Team. These groups focus on performing a specific ministry in the church or community, while building caring relationships among the group members. Examples include Stephen Ministry, the Faith and Justice Team, or the CTK Choir. Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:17:45 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=53 Small Groups -- Big Impact. Here at Christ The King, we're in the business of helping hurting and hungering people find healing and new life, through a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. And we're convinced that the best environment for cultivating that "growing relationship with Jesus Christ" is a small group. Why are small groups so important? Because in small groups . . . you build relationships of quality and integrity with othersyou experience Christian love and caring, at the deepest possible levelyour faith deepens, as you and your group-mates study together, share your discoveries, and hold each other in mutual accountabilityyou and your group grow closer as you work together to help othersyou have a laboratory where you can test your gifts and find them confirmed by othersyou're part of a group that's there for one another, through good times and bad. Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:16:00 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=27 Christ The King is located at 499 Plaza Drive in Vestal, New York, within fifteen minutes' drive of anywhere in the Binghamton metropolitan area. View Interactive Map | Get Personalized Directions From the East (Binghamton). Take the Vestal Parkway to University Plaza (the former Vestal Plaza). Just after the traffic light at the entrance to University Plaza, turn left onto Plaza Drive. Follow Plaza Drive up the hill, past Time Warner Cable. Look for the church sign and driveway on your left, at 499 Plaza Drive. From the West (Vestal). Take the Vestal Parkway past the entrance to Binghamton University. As you continue, you will ascend and descend a hill and see Universidy Plaza (the former Vestal Plaza) ahead on your right. Take your first right onto Plaza Drive. Follow Plaza Drive up the hill, past Time Warner Cable. Look for the church sign and driveway on your left, at 499 Plaza Drive. From the North (Route 17). Take Exit 70S off Rt 17. Follow NY Rt 201 south across the Susquehanna River. Continue straight ahead, following signs for Binghamton and NY Rt 434 East. Merge onto Rt 434 (the Vestal Parkway) and continue past the entrance to Binghamton University. As you continue, you will ascend and descend a hill and see University Plaza (the former Vestal Plaza) ahead on your right. Take your first right onto Plaza Drive. Follow Plaza Drive up the hill, past Time Warner Cable. Look for the church sign and driveway on your left, at 499 Plaza Drive. Sunday Worship Christian Education Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:11:34 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=26 Every Sunday morning from 10:10 to 11:10 you'll find growth opportunities for the whole family -- from three-year-olds to adults. (Check for vacation times in the summer.) Children's Ministry. Jesus and Friends (our ministry for children from age 3 through sixth grade) gathers each Sunday morning for fun, learning, music and crafts. [More . . .] [To pre-register your child for Jesus and Friends, click here.] Youth Ministry. On Sunday mornings, teenagers from seventh through twelfth grade meet in three different class-groupings. And there's lot's more happening beyond Sunday morning, too! [More . . .] [To pre-register your 6-12th grader for youth classes or groups, click here.] Adult Education. Classes for adults are also offered every Sunday morning. In addition to the ongoing Adult Forum, special classes are offered on a variety of topics throughout the year. And looking beyond Sunday mornings, our network of small groups provides a host of ways to make friends and grow closer to God. Sunday Worship Getting There Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:10:21 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=108 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=108&article_id=311 Lukus grew up in Barton NY, near Owego, and his musical talents emerged at an early age. He's a versatile musician with an enchanting voice; he plays a range of instruments, from piano and guitar to harp and Native American flute. Lukus is in demand as a performer at such local venues as the Rivermews Cafe and Merlin's. You can catch his appearance schedule (and some videos) on his MySpace page. Lukus has brought a fresh and youthful perspective to our 11:15 worship service. That service, launched in 1992, was originally in the "contemporary worship" style of the 1990s: heavy on "praise songs" and light on elements like communion. But with guidance from Lukus, the service has become far richer and deeper, evolving into a style we call "Progressive Worship" or "Post-contemporary Worship." It combines secular songs and modern worship music with traditional elements, some dating back to the Middle Ages. It's a service you need to experience! Lukus brings laughter and creativity to the weekly planning sessions with Pastors Mark and Nadine, where the design of each week's progressive service takes shape. His deep spirituality and abundant musical gifts have been a real gift to our congregation! Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:09:06 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=105 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=105&article_id=304 Prior to coming to CTK in July 2000, Jim was an organist at a Presbyterian church and a United Methodist church (both in Binghamton), and he taught English to adults from all over the world in a program run by the Binghamton City School District. He has written original music for theatrical productions at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, and at Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX. He is a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). Jim's wife Colleen teaches social studies at Binghamton High School, and their son Mike is a physical education teacher and coach in the Susquehanna Valley School District. Jim is thrilled to work at Christ The King with people he respects and enjoys, and is especially grateful for the abundance of musical talent found here! Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:59:53 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=104 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=104&article_id=303 Beth lives in Endwell with her husband Mike, daughter Perri, and son Nick (who are now away at college). They moved to the Southern Tier from Syracuse around 2000, and Beth usually attends the second service, but says she "attends the first when Nick is playing the tuba." Beth loves antique furniture, restoring old items, crafts, painting, and gardening. She also notes that she's "required" to love soccer, as Perri is an enthusiastic team member. What does Beth like best about Christ The King? "Interacting with the congregation. I adore the children who attend Jesus & Friends and have gladly served as a Sunday School teacher. We have a wonderful group of caring people at CTK. Mark and Nadine are great to work for! They are always looking for new ways and programs to better our congregation's relationship with God." Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:52:16 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=107 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=107&article_id=306 Julie is a native of the Binghamton area, and loves being surrounded by the mountains. All of her pre-college education was in Catholic parochial schools, which helped to begin her religious journey at a young age. She went on to earn a secondary teaching degree at SUNY Cortland. Julie attended Binghamton University for her Masters in Special Education (Grades K through 12), and her continuing education is supported by literature and on-line small groups consisting of other religious teachers. Julie and her husband Robin -- along with their two children, Joshua and Nicholas -- joined Christ The King in 2006; Julie was hired as Director of Children's Ministries in 2008. Her enthusiasm, her skills and her obvious love for children have been on display ever since. More important than her hobbies of gardening, cars, camping and music, Julie is a soccer coach, Odyssey of the Mind coach and a volunteer in her sons' classrooms. One of the things Julie likes best about Christ The King is the opportunity to expand her faith in a comfortable, challenging atmosphere. An Alpha graduate, Julie found that the course gave her a chance to learn more about Christianity and about how personal the love of God truly is. She currently participates in the Wednesday morning Bible study. Experiences like these have deepened her faith and have given her an opportunity to explore herself as a constantly growing Christian. Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:49:16 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=106 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=106&article_id=305 Sat, 10 Oct 2009 13:44:08 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24&article_id=55 At Christ The King you'll find people at every stage of life -- from those just starting out, to those with a lifetime of experience to share. And you'll find people at every stage in their spiritual journeys, too. That's one of the things that makes Christ The King such an exciting place. Christ The King is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, but we're a diverse group, from a variety of religious backgrounds. Some of us used to be Roman Catholics . . . others were "generic Protestants" . . . some of us never attended a church at all before coming here. But we've all found a spiritual home at Christ The King. We're also a "Reconciling in Christ" congregation. That means we offer a warm and explicit welcome to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation -- or, for that matter, their race, social class or any other designation. When we say everyone's welcome at Christ The King, we mean it! We think you'll find Christ The King to be a great place to worship God, to make friends, to grow in your faith, and to make a difference in the world. Meet Our Staff What We Believe Mission/Vision/Values The Wider Church Sat, 10 Oct 2009 04:51:41 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40&article_id=37 Growing Through Divorce Thousands of people in our community have had their lives deeply affected by the tragedy of divorce. Every one of these people has deep and very specific needs that must be dealt with before they can move on to lead full and joyful lives. The purpose of Divorce Recovery is to help people find new meaning and value in their lives in the aftermath of divorce. Through a combination of lectures and small group discussions, participants will learn specific strategies for dealing with the trauma of divorce and will experience the support and concern of others who are facing similar issues. Please Note: These sessions are designed for people who are adjusting to the finality of a broken marriage, rather than dealing with the possibility of reconciliation. As one counselor has put it, "You can go through a divorce, or you can grow through a divorce." The goal of the Divorce Recovery Workshop is to help divorced persons make this difficult and painful time in their lives an occasion for growth and new life. Sat, 12 Sep 2009 05:02:21 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40&article_id=46 When: Six weekday evenings, from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. Who: Any divorced or separated person of any age, whether or not they have remarried. Where: Christ The King Lutheran Church, 499 Plaza Drive, Vestal. Click here for a detailed map. Once you reach the church, there will be signs to guide you and hosts to greet you. Cost: The registration fee of $30 includes a copy of the book, Growing Through Divorce, by Jim Smoke, and covers other workshop costs, such as refreshments each week. Registration: Although we accept registrations as late as the second week of the workshop, it helps a great deal to know in advance that you're coming. Please send in your registration to the Church Office, call to register at (607)729-2688 weekdays between 9 A.M. and 1 P.M., or use our online registration form. Sat, 12 Sep 2009 04:47:23 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=27 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=27&article_id=25 Worship Services. We offer two very different worship services every Sunday morning, to meet individuals' differing needs. Both services include communion every week. Classic Worship at 9:00 A.M. Our first service of the morning, from 9:00 to 10:00, is the more traditional of the two. It employs elements of our Lutheran liturgy, with roots that go back for centuries. The worship experience is enhanced by special music from our Choir, soloists and special ensembles. Progressive Worship at 11:15 A.M. (Summer, 10:30). Our second service, from 11:15 to 12:15 (summer, from 10:30 to 11:30), is the more informal service, employing a wide range of musical styles, from folk to reggae to contemporary praise music. On a typical Sunday you'll find a mixture of ancient prayers, video clips, provocative images and inspiring music, Nursery Care. During both our worship services we offer professional nursery care for infants through children in kindergarten in our Church Nursery. Christian Education Getting There Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:07:02 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=62 When you use the link below to send us a Prayer Request, it goes to a group of people who have agreed to pray for needs as soon as they hear of them. Before you send your request, though, please read the Privacy Guidelines below. This will help you frame your request in a way that protects the privacy of the person being prayed for. And remember, God works through prayer! Click here to submit your Prayer Request. Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:16:58 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=63 Confidentiality. The Prayer Requests that come to the Prayer Network often contain personal information about the people who seek our prayers. We recognize that such information is entrusted to us only so that we can pray for people's needs; this is a sacred trust that we endeavor to respect at all times. Accordingly, all participants in the Prayer Network agree not to share personal information contained in Prayer Requests with anyone else. Such information is used only in prayer. Third-Party Prayer Requests. You are welcome to post Prayer Requests for yourself or for a third party. But we ask that you keep the privacy of the third party in mind as you frame such Prayer Requests. First, always obtain the permission of the person being prayed for before posting a Prayer Request. "I'm sure the person wouldn't mind" is not enough - the person should knowingly consent to having his or her need posted on the Prayer Network. In particular, you should always obtain the person's consent before using his or her name in the request. If permission has not been obtained, or if the person requests anonymity, then it is sufficient to describe the condition in general terms, such as, "Please pray for a person who entered the hospital for surgery today." While more information could help us pray more specifically, it is more important to protect the person's right to privacy. Click here to submit your Prayer Request. Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:15:41 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=8 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=8&article_id=6 Christ The King is part of a world-wide network of Stephen Ministry congregations, where specially trained Stephen Leaders help Stephen Ministers become more effective friends for people going through difficult times. Stephen Ministers are assigned to one-on-one caring relationships with people inside and outside our congregation. They meet typically for one hour a week with their care receivers, offering a listening ear and a supportive presence. Stephen Ministers observe strict confidentiality about their caring relationships, and participate in regular supervision sessions. If you'd like to receive care from a Stephen Minister, contact Pastor Nadine Ridley. If you'd like to become a Stephen Minister, contact Angie Crawford. Tue, 9 Jun 2009 13:15:55 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=39 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=39&article_id=36 Alpha Meets on Sundays at 5:30 P.M. Register Online Now! What is Alpha? Alpha is a series of thought-provoking weekly sessions that provide a down-to-earth, practical introduction to Christianity. Alpha is low-key, friendly and fun -- and it's supported by all the major Christian denominations. Half-a-million Americans have already taken part! Who is Alpha for? Alpha is for anyone who wants to explore the validity and relevance of Christianity. Some who come have never set foot in a church. Others have attended church off and on for years but feel they've never really understood the basics of the Christian faith. Whether you're checking out Christianity for the first time or revisiting your faith, you'll find Alpha to be a true spiritual adventure. What's involved? Each Alpha evening begins with a light supper, followed by a talk on a topic like" • "Who is Jesus?" • "Why Did Jesus Die?" • "Does God Still Heal Today?" Then we break for coffee and refreshments and divide into smaller groups to discuss any questions prompted by the talk. There's also an optional Weekend Away midway through the course, where new friendships have the chance to blossom. What does it cost? There is no charge for the Alpha course, but guests are invited to make a voluntary contribution toward their own supper and toward the cost of their food and lodging during the Weekend Away. We all have questions . . . "Why?" "How?" "What on earth for?" Now there's a place to bring your questions -- a place where everyone's welcome and no question is out-of-bounds. It's a place where you can explore the meaning of life. It's called Alpha. For more information, contact Christ The King. Alpha Meets on Sundays at 5:30 P.M. Register Online Now! Fri, 30 Jan 2009 09:24:13 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=100 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=100&article_id=296 Wednesday, January 21, 20094:30 pmRegistration 5:30 pmTheological Reflection Group7:00 pmOpening Eucharist - Sister Miriam MacGillis, preacher 8:30 pmAdjourn ______Thursday, January 22, 2009 9:00 amRegistration Concludes9:00 amOpening Remarks9:15 amTimothy J. Gorringe - Presentation and Q&A10:45 amBreak11:00 amTheological Reflection Group12:15 pmLunch Break (on your own)2:00 pmNéstor O. Míguez - Presentation and Q&A3:30 pmBreak 3:45 pmTheological Reflection Group 5:00 pmAdjourn8:00 pm Special Performance: A Portrait of Rachel Carson (by Marian McPartland)______Friday, January 23, 2009 9:00 amDavid C. Korten - Presentation and Q&A10:30 amBreak 10:45 amTheological Reflection Group12:00 pmLunch Break (on your own)1:00 pmMajora Carter - Presentation and Q&A2:30 pmBreak 2:45 pmTheological Reflection Group4:15 pmClosing Panel5:15 pmAdjourn Mon, 5 Jan 2009 15:32:22 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52&article_id=103 To join the Prayer Network, use our online form. In a day or two, you'll receive an email with instructions on how to activate your membership. Welcome to the Prayer Network! Your prayers are appreciated - and your prayers have power! If you have any questions about the Prayer Network (or about prayer in general), please address them to either Pastor Mark or Pastor Nadine (office, 729-2688; home, 729-7971; pastors@ctkvestal.org).] Join the Prayer Network now! Sun, 7 Sep 2008 04:16:32 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=44 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=44&article_id=40 In the Newcomers' Class, folks who are new to Christ The King learn more about the church, meet current members, and get answers to all their church-related questions. The class, hosted by Pastors Mark and Nadine, takes place over several relaxed and informative evenings at church. Click here to register or to receive more information about the CTK Newcomers' Class. Wed, 7 May 2008 18:52:54 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=9 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=9&article_id=107 The CTK Choir helps to lead worship at our 9:00 worship service. It's led by our Music Director, Jim Ford. The Choir is open to all who have a desire to praise God through song. Choir members range in age from Junior High students through adults. Rehearsals are held at 7:00 P.M. on Wednesdays. For more info, contact Jim Ford. Wed, 7 May 2008 18:52:37 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=117 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=117&article_id=109 Celebrate Recovery is a fellowship that celebrates God's healing power in our lives. By working and applying biblical principles, we become free from our addictive, compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. This freedom creates peace, serenity, joy and, most importantly, a stronger personal relationship with God and others. As we progress through the program we draw strength from our personal, loving and forgiving Higher Power - Jesus Christ. Our local group is a unique lay ministry born out of a deep need for a support system for Christian individuals who are wrestling with chemical or alcohol dependency, sex addictions, eating disorders and more. Powerful, proven tools are offered to combat the fear, guilt, anger, loneliness, confusion and frustration which accompany these compulsive behaviors and their total affect on families. Somehow, because we are Christians, we think we should be immune to such "thorns in the flesh." When Christians recognize they have a problem, they work harder than most people to cover it up so their pastor and church friends won't find out. Thus, they end up trying to carry the burden all alone. Jesus said, "Admit your faults to one another and pray for each other to that you may be healed." (James 5:16) You no longer have to wage the battle by yourself. Help is available through this group for your destructive habits, hang-ups and hurts if you are only open to receive it. Our Celebrate Recovery group meets off-site on Sundays at 1:00 P.M. Visit Wed, 24 Oct 2007 15:16:49 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=40&article_id=47 Session 1: Is This Really Happening to Me? Stages of the Divorce Experience Session 2: Coping with Your Ex-Spouse A Relational Reality that Still Exists Session 3: Assuming New Responsibilities Planning for Yourself and Your Future Session 4: Coping Skills for Worries, Dark Thoughts and Down Days Handling the Tough Times Session 5: Finding and Experiencing Forgiveness Cutting Loose and Moving On Session 6: Thinking About New Relationships Relating, Dating and Mating Again Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:11:15 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=4 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=4&article_id=7 The mission of Children's Ministries is to help children through 6th grade grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ, through mentoring, fun activities, music, worship, Bible study and small group interaction. Our Director of Children's Ministries is Julie Sifert. She works with the Children's Ministries Team to ensure that our programs meet the needs of all the children of our church. Click on the "Children" tab in the "Ministries" menu at the left to learn more about our Children's Ministries, including: Jesus and Friends First Communion Class Church Nursery Tue, 2 Oct 2007 04:56:14 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=5 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=5&article_id=11 Our Sunday morning ministry to children from three years of age through sixth grade is called "Jesus and Friends." It takes place during the Christian Education Hour, from 10:10 to 11:10. At Jesus and Friends, children learn about God's love through songs, stories, crafts and other fun activities. Up-beat music, attention-getting drama, kid-friendly crafts and games are all part of the Jesus and Friends formula. Caring adult leaders spend one-on-one time with the children each week, building relationships that can last a lifetime. Thu, 6 Sep 2007 16:30:23 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=111 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=111&article_id=105 We offer three different Sunday School classes for youth: 7th - 8th Grade, 9th - 10th Grade and 11th - 12th Grade. Each of of the classes, led by caring adults, gives kids a safe place to explore the tough questions they're facing every day. Thu, 6 Sep 2007 16:15:57 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=23 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=23&article_id=20 We offer three different Sunday School classes for youth: 7th - 8th Grade, 9th - 10th Grade and 11th - 12th Grade. Each of of the classes, led by caring adults, gives kids a safe place to explore the tough questions they're facing every day. Thu, 6 Sep 2007 16:00:52 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=8 The philosophy behind our ministries to 6th through 12th graders could be summed up in a single phrase: "One Kid at a Time." We treat all teenagers as unique individuals, and we try to find the best way to help each of them find a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. Click on the "Youth" tab in the "Ministries" menu at the left to find out more about our Youth Ministries, including: Sunday Morning Youth Classes • 7th and 8th Grade • 9th and 10th Grade • 11th through 12th Grade Youth Group Work Camp Confirmation Ministry Thu, 6 Sep 2007 15:15:55 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=93 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=93&article_id=260 Atlana pastor who could be expelled supported by former opponentBy JOHN BLAKE | The Atlanta Journal-Constitution | Published on: 01/17/07 James Mayer is a 70-year-old truck driver from South Carolina who calls himself a "tough Lutheran." But when he talks about what's happened to him during the past six years, his eyes well up. He swallows hard and sighs. Then the tears come. "Look at me," he says with a sheepish smile. "This is who I am. I'm not ashamed of it." Six years ago, Mayer was an angry man. St. John's Lutheran Church had elected the Rev. Bradley Schmeling, an openly gay man, as its new pastor. Only six people out of the then 250-member congregation voted against Schmeling. Mayer and his wife were two of them. He vowed not to return. This is the worst thing that could have happened to the church, Mayer thought. They're probably going to close the doors. St. John's doors remain open, but Schmeling's future is now in doubt. Bishop Ronald B. Warren of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America filed charges in August against Schmeling after the pastor told him that he had entered into a relationship with another man. ELCA policy permits gay clergy -- only if they're celibate. Schmeling's trial starts in Atlanta on Friday. He could be expelled from the ELCA. The Midtown church has since rallied around Schmeling -- and so has Mayer. He has not only returned to the church but contributed money to Schmeling's legal defense. He tears up at the prospect that "Pastor Brad" may no longer lead his church. "If you had told me six years ago that I was going to give money to Brad's defense," he says, "I would have told you, 'You've lost your mind.' "Middle-ground position Over the past three decades, most mainline Protestant denominations have become more accepting of gays. Some, like the United Church of Christ, even support the rights of gays to marry. The ELCA has not gone that far. It won't allow any "practicing" gays in sexual relationships with people of the same gender to be ordained as clergy. Those guidelines have been adopted by some other Protestant denominations. It's viewed as a middle ground, a way to avoid schism. Yet inevitably a congregation will violate these rules, deeming the celibacy requirements as outmoded interpretation of Scripture. St. John's is such a church. When it called Schmeling for interviews in 2000, he told them he was gay. But it wasn't an issue, says Laura Crawley, the congregation's president. "At the time, the bishop approved him," she says. "We were not breaking any sort of rules in calling him." Crawley says the church's call committee was drawn to Schmeling's ability. His way of translating ancient Scriptures into plain language. His habit of not just using children as cute backdrops in service but treating them as adults. His flair for creative worship. They knew, though, that he might break church rules someday if he met someone. Many actually hoped that he would. "When your job is giving 24 hours a day, you need someone in your life who is devoted to giving to you," she says. The church may have become more accepting of gay pastors, but Mayer didn't get the memo. He didn't change his views of gays. He was more concerned with survival. "The church was barely hanging on when he came," Mayer says. So was the ELCA. Like many other Protestant denominations, the organization's membership has been declining for at least 20 years.Some say most Protestant denominations are dying because they're diluting the Bible. Others say it's because they're not inclusive. When both sides clash publicly, they typically follow a formula. Clergy cite dueling biblical verses, pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit and parse the meaning of convoluted church policy phrases. Mayer doesn't cite biblical scholars or the Holy Spirit to explain his change. A reserved man, he doesn't even like talking about the subject. "I'm only here because of Pastor Brad," he says as he unfolds his lanky frame in a chair at a St. John's Sunday school room. "If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't even be talking to you.""The only thing I ever heard about gay was bad." He says he never talked about homosexuality growing up on a farm in Prosperity, S.C. There was no theological debate; the issue was settled. "I came up with very little knowledge of gayness," he says. "The only thing I ever heard about gay was bad. This is all I knew: He's gay. He's bad." That didn't change when St. John's called Schmeling, a seminary student at Emory University who was completing his doctorate. When the church selected Schmeling after a congregational vote, Mayer started thinking about other churches. But they had to be Lutheran. Mayer was a devoted Lutheran who once broke up with a girlfriend because she was a Baptist. He can trace his Lutheran ancestors back to the 17th century. And though he had attended St. John's with his wife, Irene, for 47 years, he was prepared to move. "I figured it was going under," he says. "I might as well hunt somewhere else." Schmeling drew him back home, though. First, he reached the person Mayer calls "the most important person in my life" ‹ his wife, Irene. The two will celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary this month. Schmeling called Irene at their Forest Park home to introduce himself. "The word 'gay' didn't really come up in my conversation," Irene Mayer recalls. "He was calling with concern about myself and my family." Schmeling kept calling her. "Over a period of time, he won her over," Mayer says. "She just started loving him."Church revival Mayer also noticed that his church wasn't dying anymore. In six years, St. John's membership grew from 250 to about 350. More children and young adults joined. Once, Mayer knew all the members -- but he has since lost track. "I'm the old person right now," he says with a smile. Then Schmeling touched another important person in Mayer's life -- his 47-year-old daughter. He won't divulge the details but says that his daughter was experiencing some significant personal problems. She wasn't a member at St. John's, but Schmeling met with her and helped pull her out of her crisis. "Every time I ever said, 'I need you,' that's all I had to say, [and] he was there," Mayer says. Finally, Schmeling evoked memories of another important person -- Mayer's father, Enoch, a turkey farmer. "My mother preached the Bible; Daddy lived the Bible," he says. "If I said I needed help, he was there. The words 'I love you" weren't part of his vocabulary. It was just something I knew." Mayer says he saw the same quality in Schmeling. He somehow made people know that he cared for them. He made time to help. Made time to meet complete strangers. Made time to make everyone welcome. By the time Mayer learned that Schmeling had a partner, he says it was "irrelevant" to him. "I wasn't surprised," he says. "If you find someone like Pastor Brad that everyone likes, you know that he was going to run into someone who was gay and who felt the same way the rest of us do." When asked about biblical verses that condemned homosexuality, though, Mayer's posture stiffens. He says: "I don't go there. "That's between Pastor Brad and God," he says. "None of us are perfect. We're all going to answer for our sin." When asked about ELCA guidelines, he grasps for the right words. Finally, he says after sighing, "I don't know everything in the world. I don't understand how we all couldn't be born perfectly. "It's just that over a period of time, I came to realize Pastor Brad wasn't the person I thought he was. He was still gay. But the knowledge that I had of gay people wasn't who he was. "He was just like everybody else." Fri, 19 Jan 2007 09:48:13 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=44 A Definition. Here at Christ The King, we have a working definition of worship. Worship is . . . coming into God's presence to express our love for God and experience God's love for us. In every service of worship, we strive for that kind of exchange of love. Click on the "Worship" tab in the "Ministries" menu at the left to learn more about such Worship Ministries as: Senior Choir Worship Arts Team Worship Tech Team Worship Leadership Teams Deacon Team Fri, 25 Aug 2006 10:23:55 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=45 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=45&article_id=41 God has given all of us wonderful gifts, shaping each of us as a unique creation. And the Bible tells us that God gives us those gifts, not just for our own benefit, but also for the benefit of others. But often we don't take the time to discover the gifts we've been given. That's what the Gifts Discovery program is all about. In Gifts Discovery -- offered either as a weekend retreat or as a 5-week seminar -- you'll uncover your Spiritual gifts, Heart (passions), Abilities, Personality and Experiences. Together they reveal your unique, God-given S_H_A_P_E. And once you've discovered your gifts, we'll help you find ways to put them to use in meaningful ministries. Isn't it time to unwrap your gifts? Fri, 7 Apr 2006 07:54:51 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=40&article_id=131 Here's another way that we at Christ The King can reach out to those affected by Hurricane Katrina. Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) has now been granted access to some of the devastated areas and has established a staging area in Jackson, Mississippi. And Lutheran World Relief, which usually deals exclusively with needs abroad, is working with LDR to distribute health kits to those who have had to flee their homes. These health kits help children, men and women who are refugees maintain personal hygiene while living in exile. Items may also contribute to a new start for those who can return home. The following items are needed for each health kit (all items should be new and in good condition): One hand towel, dark color recommended One washcloth, dark color recommended One bath-size bar of soap, any brand, in its original wrapping One adult-size toothbrush in its original packaging One 5-7 oz. squeeze tube of toothpaste with remaining shelf life of at least 12 months (see note below), remove packaging One comb, wide tooth preferred, remove packaging One metal nail file or nail clippers with file attached, remove packaging Six Band-Aids® (or similar brand), preferably 1/2" to 3/4"; secure together with a rubber band Note: Toothpaste is marked with an expiration date. Please include toothpaste with at least a 12-month shelf life; 18 months highly preferred. Bring the items listed above to Christ The King. For the next two Sundays, September 11 and 18, the children and youth of our church will assemble the items into kits and package them for shipping to Lutheran World Relief. Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:27 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52&article_id=65 Participants. Anyone is welcome to join the Prayer Network and receive prayer requests. All you need is a commitment to pray for people's needs whenever you receive a prayer request. Confidentiality. The prayer requests that come to us often contain personal information about the people who seek our prayers. That information is entrusted to us only so that we can pray for people's needs; this is a sacred trust that we must respect at all times. Accordingly, all participants in our Prayer Network must agree not to share any personal information with anyone else. Such information is to be used only in prayer. Confirmed violations of confidentiality will result in the violator being barred from the group and from any further access to prayer requests. Receiving Requests. When you receive a prayer request, you should pray for it as soon as possible. It is also helpful if you keep a record of prayer requests and add them to the personal prayer requests you pray for in your regular Quiet Time with God. Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:27 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=51 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=51&article_id=48 The Saturday morning Men's K-Group gathers each week from 8:00 to 9:30 to share bagels, coffee and our journeys. We talk about all kinds of things, we pray together, and we support one another. And we love having new people join us! Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:27 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=59 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=59&article_id=73 A gathering of people interested in developing their writing skills. Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:26 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=54 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=54&article_id=54 The Tuesday Morning Bible Study group is for women of all ages. Meeting each week from 9:30-11:00 A.M. (9:00-10:30 A.M. in the summer) for study, fellowship, and prayer, we alternate between studying the Bible and reading books together. (Recent books we've read include Bad Girls of the Bible and The Screwtape Letters.) Although we meet at Christ the King, our members come from many churches, so come and bring your friends! New members are welcome at any time Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:26 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49&article_id=60 Introduction. Through prayer, God makes us partners in his work in the world. Prayer is mysterious, but it is also the most powerful force on earth. Just consider . . . We can touch people's lives without ever meeting them - through our prayers! We can help hurting and hungering people find healing and new life in Christ - through our prayers! We can bring peace and comfort to people going through the toughest crises they'll ever face in life - through our prayers! That's why we've set up our online Prayer Network. We're using the power of the Internet to help us pray for people who need our prayers, whoever or wherever they may be. Request Prayer Join the Prayer Network Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:26 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=47 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=47&article_id=43 LifeShapes is not a program. It's a discipline -- a way to understand ourselves and our relationships with Christ and one another. LifeShapes links the discipleship principles of Jesus to memorable images -- eight shapes. It forms the vocabulary that expresses the theology and daily life of a disciple of Jesus, painting a clear picture of what God intends to do in your personal life, in the church and in the world. In Jesus' day, teaching was based on the oral tradition. People learned through storytelling and verbal teaching rather than reading texts. Today we're still visually oriented. Trying to convey aspects of discipleship through lists, principles and phrases does not work in our time. But LifeShapes provides a simple but powerful way to help you learn and to remember the principles of the Jesus-driven life. Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:26 MST http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=48 http://www.ctkvestal.org/app/w_page.php?type=group&id=48&article_id=44 The Upstate New York Synod's Southern Tier Conference stretches along the NY-PA border for almost a hundred miles (from Corning to Binghamton), extending as far north as Ithaca and Norwich. Within the conference are 13 ELCA congregations, with average weekly worship attendance ranging from 26 to 157. At any given time, some of these congregations are without a pastor. (In the fall of 2004, for example, four of the congregations had no pastor of their own.) What do congregations do when they are without pastors, or when their pastors are ill or absent for other reasons? In some areas they can call on retired clergy or pastors who work in non-parish settings (hospital chaplains, for instance). But in the Southern Tier there simply aren't enough "extra" clergy to go around. Recognizing the difficulties facing conferences like ours, the Upstate New York Synod has been encouraging conferences to train and certify deacons: i.e., qualified lay persons who can be authorized by the Bishop of the Synod to preach at worship and/or preside at communion. The Synod recognizes two types of deacons: (1) Congregational Deacons, who can be authorized to preach and preside in their own congregations, and (2) Conference Deacons, who can be authorized to preach and preside in other congregations (within the deacon's conference). Following guidelines established by our synod, our conference conducts a six-month training program for Congregational and Conference Deacons, called the Southern Tier Conference Academy. While the Academy is principally designed to prepare participants to serve as deacons, the individual class sessions are open to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge or skills. The six sessions of the Academy are held on Saturdays, from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M., over a period of six months. The sessions cover the following topics: Deacon Skills Old Testament Survey New Testament Survey Lutheran Identity Preaching Worship and Spiritual Formation There is no charge for attending Academy sessions, but participants are expected to purchase their own study texts. Some congregations offer grants to help their deacon candidates with book and travel costs. In addition to the class sessions described above, our synod requires that deacon candidates undertake "at least 15 hours of instruction or study in the particular area of ministry in which they will serve." This requirement is generally met through independent study, in consultation with the candidate's own pastor. Once they have completed the course of study described above, candidates can be commissioned as deacons only upon the recommendation of their home pastor and Church Council, as well as the Southern Tier Conference Deacon Training Team, the Dean of the Conference and, ultimately, the Bishop of the Synod. Deacons are commissioned for three-year terms, renewable indefinitely. Deacons are expected to complete 10 hours of continuing education each year, either through established programs or independent study, in consultation with their pastors. When deacons are called upon to preach or preside outside their home congregations, they are paid mileage and an honorarium equivalent to that paid to a substitute pastor. If you're interested in becoming a deacon, discuss it with your pastor. Then attend the first Academy session, on "Deacon Skills." That session will help you determine whether you have the gifts needed to be a deacon. Thu, 29 Sep 2005 03:16:26 MST