The Invitation to Discipleship
September 24, 2023
The call to be a disciple is first and foremost an invitation to receive a new identity. It beings with our baptism and gets worked out in...
Discipleship
WORSHIP SERVICES
Sundays | 10:30AM | In-Person or via Livestream
We encourage you to join us for worship every Sunday morning at 10:30 AM, either in person, or via livestream at our church YouTube page.
SMALL GROUPS
If you are interested in joining with others to share life and dive deeper into the sermon and what it means for our lives, please contact Pastor Melissa.
VOCATIONS | Healthcare
SUN, OCT 8 following the service (@ 12PM) in C8–12
SUN, OCT 8 following the service (@ 12PM) in C8–12
What does it mean to live as a Christian in your workplace? Maybe you are or feel as though you are the only Christian at work. Maybe you’re unsure how to integrate your faith into your work. God has us in our workplaces to demonstrate and declare his glory and grace, but what does that look like in your vocation?
Anyone who is working in the healthcare field is invited to a one-time meetup over lunch on October 8. Join with others engaged in the same field of work to receive encouragement and share the challenges and opportunities you’ve experienced in living as a Christ-follower in your workplace. (Note: there will be opportunities for other vocational fields in the coming months.)
Please RSVP to Pastor Melissa by October 5: mlowther@granthamchurch.org.
TOGETHER ON THE JOURNEY: Vocational Meetups
Various dates | Lunch after service in C8-12
Various dates | Lunch after service in C8-12
What does it mean to live as a Christian in your workplace? Some may be or feel as though you are the only Christian at work. And some may be unsure how to integrate your faith into your work. God has us in our workplaces to demonstrate and declare his glory and grace, but what does that look like in your vocation?
Throughout 2023-2024, we will be hosting several one-time meetups over lunch for those serving in specific vocations. Join with others engaged in the same field of work as you to receive encouragement and share the challenges and opportunities you’ve experienced in living as a Christ-follower in your workplace.
Schedule (subject to changes & additions):
- Education: Sunday, November 12, 2023
- Business/Finance: Sunday, January 28, 2024
- Mental Health: Sunday, March 10, 2024
- Technology: Sunday, April 14, 2024
Please RSVP if you plan to attend to Pastor Melissa.
DISCOVER GRANTHAM
WED, OCT 11 @ 7PM & SAT, NOV 4 @ 9AM–1PM
WED, OCT 11 @ 7PM & SAT, NOV 4 @ 9AM–1PM
For those who are interested in learning more about Grantham Church, join Pastor David Flowers and Pastor Melissa Lowther for a hybrid learning experience engaging in the basics of our church’s belief, values, vision, and operations. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet other attendees and discern how God might be leading you to engage with our congregation. This class is required for those who would like to pursue membership at Grantham, but anyone is welcome to participate. Please note the format:
- WED, OCT 11 @ 7:00 PM: 30-minute introductory Zoom
- A few short videos & readings to review on your own between Oct 11 – Nov 4 (approx. 1 hour time commitment)
- SAT, NOV 4 @ 9AM–1PM: in-person session with lunch & childcare provided
All three segments are part of the class. Please register by October 5 if you plan to participate!
Current Sermon Series
We are Disciples | Fall 2023
granthamchurch.org/sermons
granthamchurch.org/sermons
In our highly compartmentalized lives, it can be easy to think about “discipleship” as something that happens only when we’re in the church building. But according to the New Testament, discipleship happens as we are knowing and following Jesus with other disciples—wherever we go! Being a disciple begins with knowing who we are in Christ, and this new identity is to be discovered and lived out in every area of life. What does this look like? In this series, we will unpack Grantham Church’s definition of disciples: “people in community who – empowered by the Holy Spirit – are growing to love, follow, and lead others to the God who looks like Jesus.” Join us as we seek to live into our calling to be disciples who make disciples in the way of Jesus.
Recent Sermons
One Generation to Another
September 17, 2023
Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” We see many biblical examples of...
Belonging to the Body of Christ
September 10, 2023
It’s quite clear that millions of Americans are lonely, lacking in purpose, searching for meaning, and looking for a place to belong. As...
How Long, Lord?!
September 3, 2023
The Book of Revelation can seem quite strange to us today. That’s because it is full of apocalyptic imagery and symbols. So, what should...
Adult Learning Communities (Sundays @ 9AM)
Interested in, or questions about Learning Communities, contact Pastor Melissa Lowther.
LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS
messages of hope from the exile
SEPT 3 – NOV 26 in A1
messages of hope from the exile
SEPT 3 – NOV 26 in A1
When things fall apart, we often ask, “where is God?” Join the Philathean Class to look at how the biblical prophets of the Exile (Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel) reveal our faithful God, a God of new beginnings.
TEACHERS | MJ Fair, Jonathan Owen, Glen Pierce, John Yeatts
THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
SEPT 10–DEC 17 in C8–12
Although it’s one of the most cited passages of Scripture, the meaning and application of the Sermon on the Mount is far from settled. Theologians, preachers, and every day Christians differ over whether Jesus’ teachings in his oft-quoted sermon are actionable or merely aspirational; too principled to be practical in the “real” world; an ethic for a future time/age or a roadmap for faithful living in the here and now. The Discipleship Class will explore these and other questions as we dive deep into, read slowly, and discuss together Matthew 5-7, taking into account Brethren in Christ theology, doctrine, and core values.
TEACHERS | Randy Basinger, Kurt Bodling, and GuestsCLASS COORDINATORS | Ken and Yvonne Martin
PARENT LEARNING COMMUNITY
begins SEPT 10 in C7
Parenting is both difficult and rewarding and being part of a local church gives us a community with whom to face these challenges and opportunities together. In this class, parents will explore Scripture as well as other resources to help orient our hearts toward Christ and his desire for our families. Join this judgment-free environment to share in the realities of parenting and grow with others as we seek to live as wise, loving, and gracious parents.
LEADERS | Leah & Jason Clarke, Kathy Stuebing
YOUNG ADULT LEARNING COMMUNITY
begins SEPT 10 in C9
Young adulthood has unique advantages and challenges. The Bible speaks to these experiences, and we also benefit from sharing our joys and struggles with others. Geared toward those in their 20s who are learning to navigate life as adults, this class includes Scripture reflection, prayer, and conversation as we seek to grow in our faith together and share it with others.
FACILITATOR | Rich Stuebing
Beyond Sunday Mornings
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY
FRIDAYS @ 6:45–7:45AM in the Coffee Shop
The men’s weekly Bible study resumes on Friday, September 8. Men are welcome to join for a study of the letter of James, which includes much discussion and emphasis on practical application of biblical truth. We always end promptly at 7:45am to allow time to get to work or other engagements.
LEADERS | Rich Stuebing, John Yeatts
GRANDMOTHERS IN PRAYER
4TH THURSDAYS @ 9:30–11AM in C8–C12
All Grandmothers are invited for a time of fellowship and prayer for our beloved grandchildren. During the time together, we will be using Philip Yancey’s book Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference? with discussion led by various grandmothers. From September-April, we will discuss chapters 13-18. Instead of the regular 4th Thursday meetings in November & December, there will be a Christmas brunch on Thursday, December 7.
LEADER | Velma Yoder
Community Life
FELLOWSHIP MEALS
1st & 3rd SUNDAYS @ 12PM in Fellowship Hall
1st & 3rd SUNDAYS @ 12PM in Fellowship Hall
Sharing life around the table is one of the best ways we can connect together as the body of Christ. Over a meal we meet new friends, celebrate God’s goodness, and carry one another’s burdens. Grantham Church has partnered with One80 Ministries to host this time where God can strengthen our friendships across divides, encourage us as we journey together in our faith, and provide a welcoming space for anyone seeking to be known and loved. There’s room at the table!
Fall 2023 meal dates are:
- September 3 & 17
- October 1 & 15
- November 5 & 19
- December 3 & 17
To help make these meals possible, contact Dawn Isley to find out about volunteer opportunities.
LIBRARY BOOK CHAT
The Library Book Chat meets to share informally about inspiring books, both fiction and nonfiction. When you have a book to present, contact Edie Asbury to set up a mutually agreeable time to meet, either by Zoom or in person, and other Book Chat participants will be invited to join the meeting. This is a great way to hear about what others are reading on their discipleship journey!
LEADER | Edie Asbury
Children (birth–grade 5)
Questions? Contact Pastor Denise Fogelsanger
LEARNING COMMUNITIES | Sundays, 9–10AM
BIRTH–24 MONTHS | C11 (NURSERY)
Loving care will be offered in the nursery
2–5 YEAR OLD PRESCHOOLERS | D23
Preschool children will be using the Wee Wonder curriculum to explore what it means to come to church, God made the world, and thanking God this fall.
KINDERGARTEN–5 GRADE | D26 & D27
School age children will be using the Shine: Loving in God’s light Curriculum. This fall they be learning about becoming a People of God as they learn about the family of Abraham and Sarah through stories from Genesis, and the Journey to Freedom from stories of Exodus and Joshua.
CHILDREN'S CHOIR | Sundays @ 10–10:20AM (D20–22)
Children 3 years up through high school are welcome to join as we practice songs that will be performed in the worship service throughout the year.
NURSERY & PRESCHOOL CARE | Sundays @ 10:15AM (C11)
INFANTS & TODDLERS
Birth- 24 months will receive loving care in the nursery (C11) during the worship service.
PRESCHOOLERS
Children aged 2-3 year old will be in D21, children aged 4-5 year old will be in C19 where each class will have a time of play and Bible Stories.
KIDS' OWN WORSHIP | Sundays @ 11AM (during the sermon)
Children in K-6th grade will join their families for the first part of the worship service. At the start of the sermon, they will be invited to a special worship service. Children in Kindergarten through 6th grade will meet in the area near the mailboxes. We will then split into 2 classes and move to the Children’s wing.
- Kindergarten through 2nd grade will continue using the Gospel Project as we work our way through the Bible. This fall we will be learning from the minor prophets as we explore stories about the Southern Kingdom of Judah, then looking at a people restored through hope in exile and returning to the land.
- The 3rd through 6th graders will continue exploring Bible stories using the Godly Play teaching method and will be studying the Old Testament stories from Creation through the Return from Exile.
More Children's Ministry
SING AND PLAY
FRIDAYS, @ 9:30–10:15 AM & 10:30-11:15 AM
SEPT 15–DEC 1
FRIDAYS, @ 9:30–10:15 AM & 10:30-11:15 AM
SEPT 15–DEC 1
Sing & Play, a time for preschoolers and their favorite caregivers, to come play in the Fellowship Hall with 8 different stations to choose. We will be resuming on Fridays for the fall starting on Sept. 15 through Dec. 1, with 2 sessions that will last 45 minutes each (one at 9:30-10:15am; and the other at 10:30-11:15am)
TRUNK OR TREAT | volunteers needed
SUN, OCT 22 @ 5:30–7PM
SUN, OCT 22 @ 5:30–7PM
Calling everyone with a vehicle of any kind to join us for the annual Trunk or Treat outreach event. Please sign up on the Time to Sign up sheet to join in the fun evening. Trunk or Treat is on Sun., Oct. 22nd from 5:30-7pm.. You may arrive whenever you need to get your trunk set up in whatever décor you would like, keeping it nonscary, kid friendly, and keeping with our core values. Bring you candy, fun trunk and enjoy blessing our church family and community.
We also need people to welcome our guests, donate cookies, serve snacks, help park cars, drive the barrel train, and help with games. Please sign up on the following sheet.
Youth (grades 6–12)
Questions? Contact Youth Coordinator, Chrissy Hoffner
"Doors"
“Doors” will be the overall theme in Youth Ministry this year. Throughout the Bible we see many doors…some opened, some closed, many representing new opportunities, salvation, The Way…
LEARNING COMMUNITY
SUNDAYS @ 9AM-10AM in C15 (Youth Room)
SUNDAYS @ 9AM-10AM in C15 (Youth Room)
In Sunday morning Learning Community, we will focus on the sin crouching at the door and how we can be offensively prepared for spiritual warfare, as well as opening the doors of communication by discussing questions from “Can I Ask That?” from Fuller Youth Institute, a Sticky Faith Curriculum.
EVENING YOUTH GROUP
SUNDAYS @ 6PM–8PM | C15 (Youth Room)
SUNDAYS @ 6PM–8PM | C15 (Youth Room)
In Evening Youth Group, we will focus on the doors of friendship via lessons, visuals, and personal interactions.
Fall 2023 Schedule
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Youth Ministry makes a difference. 15 years ago, statistics showed that Christian youth stayed in school longer, were healthier, felt better about themselves, were more likely to volunteer their time to help others, and had better relationships with their parents. Statistics today show that nearly six in ten (59%) young people who grow up in Christian churches end up walking away. We need to build relationships with the teens to help them understand and own their faith.
Do YOU want to make a difference in the life of a teen?
College Students
Questions? Contact Pastor Melissa Lowther.
FELLOWSHIP MEALS
1ST & 3RD SUNDAYS, after the service
Get to know people of various ages and stages of life over a free lunch twice/month. This is a great way to feel part of our church family and share life together.
FALL DATES | Sept 3 & 17; Oct 1 & 15; Nov 5 & 19; Dec 3 & 17
GET "ADOPTED"
We have families & individuals who would love to come alongside you during your time in college through prayer, occasional meet-ups, and general relational support. If you’d like to get connected with someone, contact Pastor Melissa: mlowther@granthamchurch.org.
TEXT UPDATES
Receive texts about twice/month with reminders about what’s happening at Grantham Church, as well as short devotionals & encouragements. Text “@gccollege” to 81010 to sign up.
COLLEGE STUDENT WELCOME LUNCH
SUN, AUG 27 @ 12-1:30PM in Fellowship Hall
SUN, AUG 27 @ 12-1:30PM in Fellowship Hall
Join with other college students, as well as members of the Grantham Church family, to connect, be encouraged, and hear more about how we want to come alongside you in your faith journey during your time in college. Lunch is free!
Questions? Contact Pastor Melissa.
Worship Arts
Interested in, or questions about Worship Arts, contact Pastor David Perry.
Music Opportunities
WORSHIP TEAM
A collective of musicians, tech volunteers, and Scripture readers that help lead our congregation in faithful and heartfelt worship. In particular, we are looking for more volunteers to run projection and sound.
CHRISTMAS CHOIR
All our welcome to sing in the choir in our Sunday morning worship service on Dec. 24. Choir rehearsals will be Nov. 29, Dec. 6, and Dec. 20 from 6:30-7:30 pm. Please RSVP to Pastor David Perry to participate.
HANDBELL CHOIR
SUNDAYS @ 12pm in THE MUSIC ROOM
SUNDAYS @ 12pm in THE MUSIC ROOM
Have you ever wanted to try ringing handbells? Can you read music? Keep a beat? Watch a director? Rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 1 after worship (around 12pm) for 30-40 minutes of practice. The plan is to play in worship 10/29, 11/26 and a December date TBD. Check your calendars and contact Chrissy Hoffner, preferably PRIOR to October 1, to express interest.
ARTWORK IN WORSHIP | calling all children and youth artists
RSVP by SUN, OCT 1
RSVP by SUN, OCT 1
If your child (any age) loves to create art and would like to be commissioned to make art for our October 29 worship service projection slides, please RSVP to Pastor David Perry by October 1 to receive your song assignment.
CAMPFIRE WORSHIP
SUN, OCT 8 @ 7PM
SUN, OCT 8 @ 7PM
A casual, communal time of singing modern worship songs around a campfire. You are welcome to bring any instrument and/or your voice, and join us next to the softball field!
ADVENT GELLI ART CLASS | led by Susan Bailey
WEDS, starting OCT 11 @ 6PM in A3
WEDS, starting OCT 11 @ 6PM in A3
Join Susan Bailey every Wednesday night (starting Oct. 11) at 6:00 pm in room A3 as she leads a class in the making of gelli art. All of the art in the class will be used for our Adventsanctuary art project, “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” Anyone high school and up are welcome, regardless of artistic skills.
HYMN SING
SUN, OCT 15 @ 4PM
SUN, OCT 15 @ 4PM
Join us on Sunday, Oct. 8 in the sanctuary for an informal hymn sing. Bring your requests!
Special Worship Opportunities
TAIZÉ
SUN, NOV 5 @ 7PM
SUN, NOV 5 @ 7PM
Join us on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 7:00 pm in the sanctuary for a service of spoken and sung contemplative prayer, inspired by the Taizé monastic community in France.
MESSIAH LIFEWAYS CAROLING
WED, DEC 13
WED, DEC 13
All ages are welcome, as we carol for Messiah Lifeway’s outdoor, drive-thru event. Please RSVP to Pastor David Perry if you wish to participate.
LONGEST NIGHT SERVICE
THURS, DEC 21 @ 7PM
THURS, DEC 21 @ 7PM
Join us on the Winter Solstice, for a Longest Night Service that gives voice to our grief, pain, and lament as Christmas approaches.
the Art Gallery
Georges Rouault: A Steadfast Vision
SEPT 24–NOV 24 in THE ART GALLERY (A1)
SEPT 24–NOV 24 in THE ART GALLERY (A1)
In the Gallery this fall: Georges Rouault: A Steadfast Vision was assembled to celebrate the 150th anniversary of his birth and to introduce this critically important artist of faith from the 20th century. Every Christian should be acquainted with his profound vision. This collection of prints has been traveling across the U.S. since 2018. Georges Rouault (1871–1958), considered the most important Christian artist of the 20th century, knew his calling and stood firm against the tide of current art movements in the early 20th century. Rouault believed that his art was more than just a means of personal expression. He considered his occupation as a calling and felt honored to communicate the message of the Gospel to a troubled world.
Questions?
Contact the Office