IINAGH Church Newsletter: Updates And Events

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the IINAGH Church newsletter! We're so excited to bring you all the latest happenings, upcoming events, and some inspiring words to keep you going. Our church community is thriving, and there's always something wonderful going on. Whether you're a long-time member or new to our family, we want you to feel connected and informed. This newsletter is your go-to source for everything IINAGH, so grab a coffee, get comfy, and let's dive into what's new and exciting.

What's Been Happening at IINAGH?

It’s been a whirlwind of activity here at IINAGH, guys! Our recent worship services have been particularly uplifting. We've been exploring the theme of 'Faith in Action,' and let me tell you, the messages have been powerful. Pastor John’s sermon on 'Living Your Faith Out Loud' really resonated with so many of us. He challenged us to not just believe, but to do. To be the hands and feet of Christ in our everyday lives. We saw an incredible outpouring of generosity following that message, with many people stepping up to volunteer for our community outreach programs. It’s truly inspiring to see our congregation living out their faith so passionately.

Beyond the pulpit, our small groups have been buzzing with life. The Wednesday evening Bible study group is currently delving into the book of Romans, and the discussions are always insightful and thought-provoking. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of scripture and connect with others on a more personal level. If you’re looking for a way to grow spiritually and build meaningful relationships, I can’t recommend joining a small group enough. We have groups for all ages and interests, so there’s definitely something for everyone. Don’t be shy – reach out to Sarah in the office, and she can help you find the perfect fit. It’s where the real community happens, you know?

Our youth ministry, affectionately known as 'The Lighthouse Crew,' had an amazing time at their recent retreat. They spent the weekend camping, doing team-building activities, and diving deep into faith-based discussions. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many of the teens sharing how the retreat helped them feel closer to God and to each other. We're so proud of our youth leaders, Mark and Emily, for their dedication and creativity in putting together such a meaningful experience. They really have a gift for connecting with our young people and helping them navigate the challenges of growing up in today’s world. Keep them in your prayers, guys!

And let's not forget our music ministry! The choir has been working hard on new anthems for the upcoming Easter celebration, and the praise band is bringing fresh energy to our Sunday mornings. If you have a passion for music and worship, we’d love to have you join us. Rehearsals are Tuesdays at 7 PM. It's a joyous and welcoming group, and no prior experience is necessary – just a willing heart!

Upcoming Events You Won't Want to Miss!

Get your calendars ready, folks! We have some truly special events lined up that you absolutely do not want to miss. First off, mark your calendars for April 15th, which is our annual Community Outreach Day. This is a cornerstone event for IINAGH, where we extend our love and service beyond the church walls. We'll be partnering with the local food bank to sort and distribute donations, and we’ll also be visiting a nearby senior living facility to spend time with residents and share some music and fellowship. It's a powerful reminder of our call to serve those in need and to be a tangible expression of God's love in our community. We’re looking for volunteers to help with everything from organizing donations to providing transportation. Sign-up sheets are available in the foyer and online. Let’s make a real difference together!

Then, gearing up for Easter, we have our Good Friday Service on April 19th at 7 PM. This is a solemn and reflective service, commemorating the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It’s a time to pause, remember, and give thanks for the ultimate act of love. Following that, our Easter Sunday Celebration on April 21st will be a joyous and vibrant service filled with powerful worship, an inspiring message from Pastor John, and maybe even a few surprises! We’ll have special music, and we encourage everyone to wear their brightest colors to celebrate the resurrection. Following the service, there will be a fellowship reception in the hall with light refreshments. It’s always a highlight of the year, celebrating the hope and new life that Easter brings.

For our younger members and their families, don't forget the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 20th, starting at 10 AM on the church lawn. Kids, get ready for a fun-filled morning of searching for colorful eggs, games, and fellowship. Parents, it's a great opportunity to connect with other families in our church community. Make sure they bring their baskets!

And for those interested in deepening their spiritual journey, we’re launching a new Men's Breakfast series starting May 4th at 8 AM in the fellowship hall. This will be a monthly gathering focused on faith, fellowship, and encouraging one another. Our first speaker will be local author and speaker, David Miller, who will be sharing his insights on 'Building a Stronger Faith in a Challenging World.' It’s a fantastic chance for the men of IINAGH to connect, share, and grow together. Breakfast will be provided, so just bring yourselves and an open heart.

A Word from Pastor John

My dear IINAGH family,

As I reflect on the past few weeks, my heart is filled with gratitude for the vibrant and active community we are a part of. The energy and enthusiasm I see each Sunday, and throughout the week in our various ministries, is a testament to the power of God working within us. We are called to be a beacon of hope, a place of refuge, and a source of encouragement for our community and beyond. Faith in action isn't just a sermon series; it's a way of life that we are striving to embody here at IINAGH.

I'm particularly encouraged by the response to our recent call for volunteers for community outreach. It’s in these moments of selfless service that we truly reflect the heart of Christ. Remember, Jesus said in Matthew 25:40, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Let these words guide us as we continue to serve our neighbors with compassion and love. Our upcoming Community Outreach Day is a wonderful opportunity to put this into practice.

As we approach Easter, a time of profound reflection and joyous celebration, let us remember the immense sacrifice and the glorious resurrection of our Lord. The resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith, offering us hope, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. May the message of Easter fill your hearts with renewed faith, peace, and an unshakeable joy. I invite you all to join us for our Good Friday and Easter Sunday services as we come together to celebrate this most sacred time.

I also want to take a moment to express my appreciation for the dedicated individuals who lead our various ministries. From our worship team and choir to our small group leaders and youth pastors, their tireless efforts are what make IINAGH such a special place. Thank you for your service and your commitment to building up the body of Christ.

Let us continue to pray for one another, to support each other’s walks of faith, and to always seek opportunities to share the love of God. May God bless you all abundantly.

In His Grace, Pastor John

Ministry Spotlights

Children's Ministry: 'Little Sprouts'

Hey parents! Our 'Little Sprouts' children's ministry is a place where kids can learn about God in a fun, engaging, and safe environment. We focus on age-appropriate lessons, songs, and activities that teach foundational biblical truths. Every Sunday during the main service, our dedicated team of volunteers leads the children in worship, storytelling, and crafts. We're currently exploring the theme of 'God's Promises,' and the kids are loving the interactive stories about Noah, Abraham, and David. We also have special events planned throughout the year, including our upcoming Easter Egg Hunt! If your child is between the ages of 3 and 10, we'd love for them to join us. Just check in at the designated area near the sanctuary before the service. Our goal is to help our 'Little Sprouts' grow in their understanding and love for Jesus from a young age. We believe that investing in our children is investing in the future of our church and our world!

Outreach Committee: Making a Difference

The Outreach Committee at IINAGH is the driving force behind our commitment to serving the wider community. We believe that faith calls us to action, and we are dedicated to identifying needs and mobilizing our congregation to meet them. As mentioned, our upcoming Community Outreach Day on April 15th is a major focus. We are coordinating with several local organizations to ensure our efforts are impactful and well-organized. Beyond this event, the committee meets monthly to plan ongoing initiatives, such as supporting local homeless shelters, providing resources for families in need, and participating in community improvement projects. If you have a heart for service and want to be part of a team that makes a tangible difference, we welcome you. Your time, talents, and resources are invaluable. Please contact David Lee if you’re interested in joining the committee or learning more about our current projects. Let’s be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community!

Worship and Music Ministry: Elevating Praise

Our Worship and Music Ministry is all about creating an atmosphere where people can encounter God through song and music. Whether you’re part of the main choir, the praise band, or simply someone who loves to sing along from the pews, you are a vital part of our worship expression. The choir, under the skilled direction of Eleanor Vance, is preparing some truly inspiring pieces for Easter. Their dedication and talent bless us each week. The praise band, led by Michael Chen, continues to infuse our services with contemporary and heartfelt worship music that connects with all generations. We are always looking for new voices and instrumentalists to join our teams. No auditions are required for the choir – just a passion for singing praises! For the praise band, some musical experience is helpful, but a willing spirit is the most important qualification. Rehearsals are a great place to connect and grow together in faith and musicality. Reach out to Eleanor or Michael if you feel called to serve in this vibrant ministry.

Prayer Requests

We believe in the power of prayer, and the IINAGH family is here to support you. If you have a prayer request, please submit it through the tear-off slip at the back of the sanctuary, via email to prayer@iinagh.org, or by speaking with one of our elders after the service. All requests are kept confidential and will be prayed over by our dedicated prayer team. Let's lift each other up in prayer, knowing that God hears our petitions. Your requests are important to us, and we are honored to bring them before the Lord. Please remember to also pray for our missionaries, for those who are sick or struggling, and for peace in our world.

Stay Connected!

Don't miss out on any of the IINAGH news! Follow us on social media for daily inspiration and updates. We're on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can also visit our church website at www.iinagh.org for more information about ministries, events, and service times. If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please don't hesitate to contact the church office at office@iinagh.org or call us at [phone-number]. We love hearing from you, guys!