The Newsletter Needs YOU!

We want suggestions on how to improve the look of our newsletter, so to better reflect the character of our congregation.  A change in things such as page layout, font, or paper color?  Input from the congregation would be appreciated!  Have you seen other church newsletters which have a look you would like to see in ours?  Give suggestions to the Pastor or Joan, who want help in designing a better format.

What type of articles would you like?  Some humor, possibly a cartoon reflecting a church setting?  A worship adult puzzle page?  A list of Board members to contact with questions or suggestions?  A calendar of the months daily church activities for posting on your refrigerator or bulletin board?

The Percival Community Church newsletter is a reflection of our congregation, for ourselves and those who cannot attend services and activities.  Lets try to make the best face possible!

Thank you!

The freshly laid gravel has been appreciated by all.  We have had many a “thank you” from members of the congregation who can now park and walk into the church without trying to jump over the water obstacles.  Thank you!

From the Board Secretary

Spring is unfurling its wings as many robins descend on our lawns.  So it is business as usual for the rest of us too.  The Board met in March to discuss old and new projects, including improvements on the bathrooms for handicap access, arranging for recorded organ music for Sundays in need of such, a coating for the outside ramp to prevent slipping accidents, and above all, landscaping for the front of the church.

Please let members know if you have any ideas concerning any of these.  Landscaping is an immediate interest now, so don’t hesitate.  Paul is taking charge of coming up with a plan. We might think in terms of indigenous plants, and those hardy for the area, as watering on a regular basis to get the young plants growing, will be a special need for a special volunteer.  Peonies, lilies, ornamental trees…share with us your vision.  Also, a workday may be in the offing.  So be prepared!

Secretary, Marcia

Billboard Picture

It’s Aaron Zach!  Too my astonishment I finally observed the billboard with his picture and two other students of Iowa Western promoting their college.  If you should be in Omaha and are driving East on I-80 and around 42nd Street exit, look to the right and yes, there is a larger than life photo of Aaron.  Amazing!  Thank you Nancy Newlon for the picture. Click on picture to enlarge.

Pastor’s Thoughts

We’ve heard the phrase “living on the edge;” it usually refers to an individual who engages in a risky behavior or hobby, such as sky diving, rock climbing, NASCAR racing, tagging sharks, even astronauts, or walking across Niagara Falls just to name a few.

“Living on the edge” involves risk, the thrill of adventure and the ecstasy of accomplishment.  The same can be seen in encountering God, Moses and the burning bush, Moses on Mt. Sinai, at the edge of the Red Sea, Jacob wrestling with the Lord, Abrahams entire life, David’s confrontation with Agiat, and Peter’s confession and denial to name only a few.

“These living on the edge” experiences with God often become pivotal moments of faith.  We can complain, deny, run, wrestle or have a deeper faith.

“Living on the edge” with God can often engage us into a vastly more revealing relationship with our Lord, and whatever the encounter we cannot but be changed.  They will thrust us into a thirst for more and deeper experiences.

May our faith shaping moments lead us to saying like David “Thy loving kindness is better than life?”

Pastor Blaine

Student of the Month Jacob Raymond

Jacob is the son of Rusty and Mindy Raymond.

I am getting closer to receiving my Associates Degree in Criminal Justice at Iowa Western Community College.

I enjoy my classes, living in Council Bluffs and meeting and making new friends along the way. I am also working part time to help with expenses.  As of now I am unsure of what direction I will take upon completion of my degree.  I have really appreciated the gift of money and words of encouragement the church has given to me.  It definitely means a lot!

Here is Jacob’s address if you would like to send him notes of encouragement  The congregation of Percival Community Church wishes Jacob every success in this academic year.

Jacob Raymond, 1102 Marshall Ave.,  Apt. a7,   Council Bluffs, IA  51503