High School Wednesday nights during the summer

True U  

7-8 p.m.

Upcoming teaching topics

This weekend, June 11-12, Docta' Dave will be bringing a message entitled:

The Camel, The Needle, and a Rich Dude

Beginning on June 18, join us for a new series on the book of 1 Peter:

Life Imitating Life

We will be discussing how we can have hope in this world full of trouble. 

Please pray for the Mexico mission team

The 9-10th grade students and leaders are leaving for Mexico on Saturday, June 11 at 4:00 a.m.!
Please keep them in prayer as they work with the Caring Hearts Ministry in San Luis.

Prayer requests:

*God uses the team for His glory

*Safety as they travel and while they are there

*Significant work and blessing to Caring Hearts

* Lives would be touched by the gospel

*Their hearts to be forever changed by His Spirit

They will return on Saturday, June 18 in the evening.

To read daily updates and see pictures while they are gone, visit  

www.thrive2011.tumblr.com

Thank you for your prayers and support!

Weekend teaching summary: June 4-5, 2011

^{Ephesians 5: 15-17
15} Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, ¹⁶ making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. ¹⁷ Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

 Pastor Dan brought application of this passage through the following points:

1) Learn from past experiences so you can evaluate how to respond to present circumstances - remember unwise things you did and avoid repeating them!

2) Recognize today as a "present" from God, and make the most of every opportunity.  Tomorrow is only a better day if we make wise choices today.

3) Seek to understand the Lord's will, and remember that our perspectives are limited - we can't step back and watch our own lives.  God has an eternal perspective on our lives, so seeking and obeying Him are in our best interest.  God's will is not rigid, but it's more like staying within a bubble inside of a circle - if we make choices that are within the boundary of the bubble, we are still walking in His will.

4) Don't be foolish with your time.  Work hard at something God has called you to, and do it for Him.  You won't be disappointed!

Congratulations to our seniors!

Cornerstone's graduating seniors were honored this past weekend in the zone.  They included:
Hannah James
Christian Woyt
Jared Prussia
Zack Mabe
John Lewis
Kelley Neumann
Lauren Abel
Victor Nichols
Austin Ramsey
Tyler Leatherwood
Dan Ott
Andrew Patla
Ken Khan
Dillon Cossey
Jake nedley
Colynn cook
Kory Kappel
Austin Lange
Jess Acito
Sydney McDonald
Katie Bailey
Zabi Mulwa
Becka LeVeille

God bless each of you!

We need your cereal box fronts!

Parents, please save your cereal boxes!  Dave is requesting that everyone cut out the front side of the box and bring it in.  They will be using them at camp. Please bring them to the bin in the zone.

Thank you so much!

Save your newspapers - we need them for Middle School camp!

Parents, please save as many newspapers as you can!  The kids will be playing a game at camp that involves massive amounts of newspaper.  So, bring your stack of newspaper recycling to Cornerstone every week!  There is a bin in the zone where you can put them.

Thanks!

Weekend teaching summary - Middle School - May 21-22

Dishonest Temptations

We all have the ability to be honest or dishonest. Often times it's like we have a little battle inside our heads between the two because we aren’t spending enough time in God’s Word. This temptation comes in all shapes and sizes and has a tendency to sneak up on us.  When it does, we are faced with making a choice: to tell the truth or make up a lie.  It doesn’t matter if you are in elementary school, junior high or high school; it still manages to follow us around everywhere. But, it doesn’t stop there! It takes on some new forms and challenges us as adults, too. Eventually dishonest behavior or temptations only lead to someone getting hurt or punished, and usually, that someone is you. Sometimes we don’t even realize we're lying until it’s too late, and asking for forgiveness is the only step we can take next.

We discussed the definition of honesty: Doing what you know is right, even if it costs you! Battling this temptation really involves a heart change.

In the Bible, (John 14: 6) "Jesus answered, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. The only way to the father is through me.' " So in a way, when we do what is right, honest and true, we are showing others a little bit of what God is, A small picture of what God is like.

Matthew 5:16  says "In the same way, you should be a light for other people. Live so that they will see the good things you do and will praise your Father in heaven."  Light reflects the good we do and others will praise God for His good work they see in our lives.

That Scripture can be a little scary and also put some pressure on us. That’s not why God did this, however. It’s more to show us what a huge deal honesty really is. It also shows people a glimpse of who God is.

There is this cool Psalm in 25: 20-21  "Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.  May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you."

Integrity and uprightness (honesty), are my body guard or protectors, because I expect them to protect me. The Psalmist is saying I need protection. Honesty keeps me out of trouble. This is a huge source of protection in our lives.

Honesty to mom and dad is huge. It gets you more freedom. All they really want to be able to do is trust you. So think about it, if you're making poor choices, chances are your parents aren’t going to trust you. Dishonesty is a classic temptation, especially for Middle School kids, and it doesn’t ever go away. Being honest may not always seem like a big deal, but it’s a really sneaky ninja-like sin that can quickly become a lifestyle if not kept in check.

Personal Challenge: Work hard this week to tell the truth in every situation, even the little things.

Weekend teaching summary - High School - May 14-15

Relationships by Design

Pastor Dan challenged the students to make the BEST choice regarding dating in High School...don't do it!  The pattern of dating and breaking up is not the best way to prepare oneself for marriage.  But, since many students choose to move with the culture and date in their teens, they were given some things to think about regarding choices in dating.

1) Have a standard.
Avoid the standard of "I'll date whoever makes me feel happy".  Rather, seek God, and ask Him lead you in the relationship.  Ask:  "Is God in this relationship?".

2) God cares about who you date.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.", 2 Corinthians 6:14
Look at a person's life to see if you can tell that they love Jesus.  Don't just take their word that they are a Christian.

3) Dating should be preparation for marriage.
Ask, "Is this a person I would want to marry?"  If not, then ask yourself why are you dating them! 
Guys:  Does the girl submit to the Lord and show a willingness to submit Biblically to her future husband?
Girls: Does the guy love Jesus enough to show Christ's kind of love to you and be willing to give himself up for you?  Ephesians 5:22, 25

4) The big question:  How far is too far?
It's not about how much I can get away with and still be a Christian.  The line is different for different people and how they physiologically respond to the opposite sex.  Some will need to stop at holding hands, some with kissing.  Make sure that you are never alone together or go to tempting places!

Dating students are encouraged to invite an older couple into your relationship to allow someone experienced to speak into your lives. 

They were also reminded that when dating someone, they should not spend all their free time together.  One night a week is enough, and this habit will help keep them from getting consumed by the relationship.

Summer middle school schedule

No Wednesday night programming for Middle School students on May 25

Middle School worship team rehearsal
Wednesday evenings - 4:30-8:00 p.m.

June 1, 8, 15, & 22
Dinner will be provided for worship team members.

No regular Middle School Wednesday night programming for the month of June, to allow the worship team time to prepare for an awesome time at camp!

Camp is coming: June 26-July 1

You can still register for camp through June 1!

Coming this summer for High School & College age students:

 Wednesday nights starting June 8

10 week program

Click here to visit the TrueU website.

Middle School Lock-in canceled

Please do not send your student to church on May 20 - the lock-in has been canceled.
Thank you!

Middle school weekend teaching, May 7-8

 Selfish Temptations

Dave described selfish temptations as the desire to only think about ourselves.  This tends to sneak up on us, and before you know it, it confronts us!  Most of us don't wake up in the morning and decide that "Today is the day it's all about me; I can't wait to be selfish today."    

 

When we look at the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, we see that selfishness is actually a killer. When they looked inward and began to focus on themselves, they were struck dead for their selfishness. Thank God He has stopped doing that, or we all would be gone. 

To apply this to us, we need to see that selfishness is still a killer.  It's a killer of the trust we have between friends and parents. It does nothing but hurt us and other people. There are two important things that keep us from being selfish: 1) Learning to love others like we love ourselves, and 2) Practicing generosity.  Selfishness holds us back from both of these things. When we are selfish, we are not generous; and when we are generous its hard to be selfish. 

When looking at the parable of the good Samaritan in Luke 10: 30-37 we see how we could be just like the good Samaritan in our schools, neighborhoods and homes. What if we went out of our way to talk to the quiet kids at school, or sit with the lonely kid at lunch? Then maybe we could even go a step further and cover their costs, just like the good Samaritan. Introduce them to our friends, become their friend. Start to look at them as you look at yourself. And eventually get to the point of Philippians 2:3-4, where we are thinking of them and giving them more honor than ourselves. 

Dave concluded with a personal challenge for the students to look for some practical ways that they can focus on helping others.

Middle school lock-in needs parent volunteers

Parents, get in touch with your youthful side by joining the students for fun, games, teaching, and worship on May 20.  8 p.m. - 8 a.m.

Games and teaching until 2 a.m. and then movies and some sleep.

We need you!
Thank you so much.

Middle School summer camp still has openings

Parents, there is still time to sign up your student for middle school summer camp!  We have 92 kids signed up, but there is currently room for a few more. 

Cost: $350
Deadline: June 5

Please see Dave House if you have questions.

Senior recognition

If you have a graduating senior, please contact Bethany Ramsey at bramsey@cornerstonelive.net to share information and photos.

Senior recognition weekend is

June 4-5

Come to the Spaghetti Dinner!

Please support the student mission trips by joining us for a delicious spaghetti dinner!

Wednesday, June 1

6-7:30 p.m.

All donations will go towards our 

students summer mission trips.

Come hear how students have prepared for this trip 

and how you can partner with us.

Thank you!

Wednesday Night series continue through May 18

Middle School is learning about Prayer

High School students are in a series called

Leaving a Legacy:  The Story of Jonah

Wednesday Night Live

Wednesday, May 25th

7 - 9 p.m.

Battle of the Ages Scavenger Hunt!

with free Rita's Italian Ice

For all students, grades 6-12

Middle School Lock-in coming up!

Middle school parents, mark your calendars for May 20.

Lock-In:  8pm - 8am
The students will play insane games, have awesome teaching, worship, have small group time, eat pizza, and watch movies! 
Cost: $5

Please sign up at the Info Zone.

Middle School weekend teaching, April 30-May1

Topic:  Tempting Stuff

Dave began this series by discussing the Temptation story and where temptation all began. Kids were actually amazed to learn that not only is the Bible unclear as to what kind of fruit it was, the fruit, aka apple, wasn’t really even the issue. The fruit was simply an object used by Satan to reveal the real temptation of trying to become like God. So many times we hear "the devil made me do it"; "it’s not my fault". In reality, God gives us the ability to choose between obeying Him or choosing to go against Him. The sin didn’t occur and doesn’t occur in the temptation, instead it occurs when we make that decision in our hearts, to be disobedient. We discussed that God has allowed temptation to occur in our lives but does not bring the temptation on us. 

James 1:13-15

When people are tempted, they should not say, “God is tempting me.” Evil cannot tempt God, and God himself does not tempt anyone. But people are tempted when their own evil desire leads them away and traps them. This desire leads to sin, and then the sin grows and brings death. 

Temptation is such a powerful thing that we will continue to live with all of our lives. When Jesus was in the desert and Satan tempted Him to do all the things He knew He shouldn’t, Jesus did not sin. So again the temptation itself is not the sin, as Jesus was without sin. But if Jesus was tempted when He walked the earth, it must be something we should expect and pay attention to. The devil simply wants to see us fail. He wants to sneak up on the weak, those who are not spending time with Word, Prayer and Christian friends, and devour them like a lion would devour its weak prey. 

John 10:10

A thief comes to steal and kill and destroy, but I came to give life – life in all its fullness.

1 Peter 5:8

Control yourselves and be careful! The devil, your enemy, goes around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to eat.

Mission Spaghetti Dinner

Plan to join us for dinner on Wednesday, June 1, from 6-8 p.m. in the Cornerstone gym! 

Students who are planning to serve on the mission trips will be serving delicious spaghetti as a fund-raising effort.  There will  be a special time of prayer for the groups going to Haiti and Mexico, and you will have the opportunity to sign up as a prayer partner for specific students.

Senior recognition weekend is coming!

Parents of seniors, please note that the weekend of

June 4-5

will be set aside for senior recognition. 

It will be held in the Zone. 

Please plan to attend with your senior!

High School Weekend teaching summary, April 30-May 1

Topic:  Sex By Design...an open, honest, Biblical view of sex


God has designed sex to be a beautiful expression of intimacy between a married man and woman.  Intimacy is greater than just sex, involving every part of the marriage relationship.  The world would have us believe that having sex is just a physical act, not affecting other areas of our lives.  This is a lie!  In sex, the man and woman become one, as described in Genesis 2:24.  But, since the fall of man, sex from the world is a cheap imitation of what God designed it to be.

Sex is also a picture of God's desire for intimacy with us, His church.  The church is referred to as the "Bride of Christ" in 2 Corinthians 11:2-3 and Revelation 19:7. 

Some see sex as a god, some see it as gross, but in reality, God has given it to us as a gift.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.  Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;  you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

New series starting this weekend!

Starting this weekend, the middle school and high school students will be having separate teaching.  High school will leave the worship area and go to the Upper Room, while the middle school students will remain in the Zone. 

Middle school series:  Tempting Stuff
High school series: Sex By Design - an open, honest, Biblical view of sex

Middle school updates

Middle School Summer Camp early-bird deadline is this Sunday!  You can save $50 on camp with an early sign-up.

If your student is selling Otis Spunkmeyer cookie dough, the orders are due this Sunday.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Middle School Lock In - May 20, 2011.

Visit the new Parent Resource Center

We are excited to announce the launch of the

Parent Resource Center! 

It is located just inside the main doors to the Zone.

You'll find:

ParentLink flyers that offer basic information about Amplified Student Ministries;

Parenting books for your review (but please do not remove them from the Zone);

Volunteer forms;

A parent email sign-up list;

and a bulletin board with information geared toward parents.

Check it out this weekend!

Teaching summary: April 16-17, 2011

Afterlife:  Christianity

Pastor Dan spoke to the students about some of the basics of Christianity, to help them explain their faith to others.  The main question to be answered was, "Who is Jesus?".  A central answer is:  Jesus is the director of all things. An example was given through the Palm Sunday account in Matthew 21:1-11 where Jesus told the disciples to find the donkey and colt on which he would ride into Jerusalem, fulfilling one of the sixty prophesies about Himself.  All sixty were fulfilled in His life on earth, which is statistically impossible by chance, illustrating that Jesus is indeed directing all things according to His plan.

The students were challenged to think about one of the main differences between Christianity and the other religions:  we have Jesus.  None of the others have the Son of God, who came to earth to die in their place, for their sins.  The other religions teach that their deeds will earn them a place in heaven. 

The account of the Passover is a good way to explain salvation.  When the Angel of Death was going to come through Egypt to kill the firstborn sons, Moses instructed the Israelites to take a spotless lamb, kill it, and wipe the blood on their doorposts.  When the Angel of Death saw the blood that had been shed for that family, he passed by that house and spared the firstborn.  Jesus is our spotless passover lamb - He lived a sinless life and died for us. Because of His blood covering us, we are permitted to pass from life on earth to life in heaven when we die as believers in Christ.  Death has no victory over us!  1 Corinthians 5:7 says, "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed."

Scriptures were shared about what heaven will be like:
Philippians 3:21 teaches that our bodies will be transformed to be like Christ's glorious body;
John 14:1-3 teaches that Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven, and that we will be with Him there.

1 Thessalonians 4:17 "Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."

New JAM middle school Wednesday night series

Prayer

Does God really answer prayer?

April 27-May 18

Parents: You're invited to Focal Point!

Focal Point

Where all things become clear

Middle School and High School students are invited, along with interested parents, to attend this special Good Friday event.  There will be worship, communion, and four breakout sessions led by guest speakers and high school students:
1) Authenticity of the resurrection
2) Medical suffering of Christ
3) How to share Easter with my friends
4) Gospel generosity

Please sign up in advance, in the Info Zone.

When:  Good Friday, April 22 

Cost: $5, lunch included
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Weekend teaching summary: April 9-10, 2011

Afterlife: Mormonism

In the 1820's a man named Joseph Smith found himself frustrated with the differences in Christian denominations, not knowing which was right or wrong.  He decided to seek wisdom from God and spent some time praying.  In his prayer time he reportedly saw a vision of God the Father and Jesus as separate beings, and he was told by the Father that none of the denominations were accurate.  He then dictated the Book of Mormon, which described itself as a chronicle of early indigenous Americans, portraying them as believing Israelites, who had a belief in Christ many hundred years before his birth. Smith claimed he translated over 500 pages in about 60 days, and that it was an ancient record translated "by the gift and power of God".  By 1830, Smith reported that he had been instructed that God would use him to re-establish the true Christian church and that the Book of Mormon would be the means of establishing correct doctrine for the restored church.
Mormons believe:

• God is exalted man, and that God is not the creator, but was created by another God who was created by another God, and so on.  
• God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are three distinct persons, rather than the Trinity.
• Human beings have the ability to become God, and God was once a man who lived on another planet..
• Jesus was begotten by physical union of God and Mary.
• False prophesies from Joseph Smith.
• Salvation is attained through good works.
• Three levels of heaven based on the level of a person's belief in Mormonism.

The Mormons believe that Mormonism is Christianity.  Dave encouraged the students to know their Christian faith and the Word of God well so they can speak with a Mormon and not be convinced that being a Mormon is Christian.

As Christians we believe in the Bible as the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).  We believe that God is three-in-one: the Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God (Genesis 1:1).  We believe that God is the Creator of all things; He has always been and always will be God over everything.  We believe that salvation comes from grace through faith,  (Ephesians 2:8-10) and that heaven will become home for all believers by the work Christ performed on the cross (1 John 4:10).

Good Friday event

Focal Point
Where all things become clear

Fusion (High School) students are invited to attend a special event on Good Friday, April 22, from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.   Cost: $5

Worship, Communion, Lunch, and Breakout sessions:
1. Authenticity of the resurrection
2. Medical Suffering of Christ
3. How to share Easter with my friends
4. Gospel generosity

Breakout sessions are led by adults with a special interest or passion for the specifc area of discussion. 

Easter Weekend in the Zone

For Easter weekend, April 23-24, parents are invited to join students in the Zone for worship and a LIVE simulcast sermon from Pastor Donn.  It's the same service as downstairs, but in the Zone with an adult worship team (leading in the same songs!) and Pastor Donn on simulcast.  It'll be fun to worship with the students in their space!
Service times: 
6:00 p.m. Saturday
9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday

Middle school summer camp: Basic Training

Parents, check your calendars and pre-register your middle school student for summer camp!  Early bird deadline ends May 1.  Registration forms are available in the Info Zone.

Fund-raising information is also now available in the Info Zone.  You can challenge your student to pay for camp themselves with fund-raising!

Weekend teaching summary April 2-3, 2011

Afterlife:  Hinduism

Eastern religions and philosophy can be difficult for us to understand since it takes a completely different approach to thought and logic. However because of an over accepted of all religions we see more and more of Hindu ideas becoming more common in our culture. From movies lime Star Wars which teaches there is a universal, impersonal force present everywhere to Avator which shows a godlike presence not only everywhere but in everything. So now things are not just created by a creator but everything is actually part of the creator. This term in Hindu called Brahman is the concept that God is not personal and cannot be known, but more like gravity. Mankind is therefore part of Brahman like water drops in an ocean and the afterlife is our continual process of trying to be reconnected to Brahman. This process invovles reincarnation and finding enlightenment through multiple and varying paths. In Hinduism all paths can lead back to Brahman you just need to be faithful to the path you choose.

From a Chrisitan perspective we would reject the notion that God is impersonal and we hold to the fact we can have a relationship with Him (Gen.1:26; 2 Cor. 5:18). That is why we can call God Father and we can have a personal relationship with Him. We know Scripture teaches that we only have one life and there is only one path to God (Heb. 9:27; John 14:6). It is not intolerant to say Jesus is the only way but we are thankful THERE IS A WAY back to God. 

May we continue to understand why Jesus is so important to our faith and how different his claims are to all other religions.

Fusion movie night

Fusion (High School) will be meeting at the Wynsong Theater in Delmont on Wednesday, April 13 to see the movie "Soul Surfer".  Students are encouraged to bring a friend!

When:  Wednesday, April 13
Time: Meet at the theater at 7 p..m; Movie starts at 7:15 p.m.
Cost: $9.00

FUSION will not meet in the Zone on April 13.

Teaching summary from last weekend: March 26-27, 2011

Afterlife:  Buddhism

Dave House shared with the students the basics of Buddhism, and what the Buddhists believe about life after death. 

Buddhism is a sect of Hinduism, and began in India about 500 years before the birth of Christ.  Buddha, or "enlightened one", was named Siddhartha Guatama, and taught the following principles, called the four noble truths, to his followers:
1) Suffering is universal.
2) The cause of suffering is self-desire.
3) The cure for suffering is to overcome ignorance and eliminate cravings.
4) Suppress craving by following the eightfold path: having the right viewpoint, speech, occupation, mindfulness, aspirations, behavior, effort, and meditation.

Buddha's mission was not for his followers to find heaven, but to show man the way to escape the suffering of life -not to describe what they would find when they would get there. Buddha did not believe in the existence of God, but rather in an "enlightened consciousness".  The Buddhists believe they must work through the four noble truths and the eightfold path to escape their suffering, and their view of the afterlife is sketchy.  Here are some examples of ideas of heaven in the eyes of the Buddhist:  Heaven changes for everyone, and it doesn't last; there are 33 heavens and 33 hells; when a person dies, they could be reborn or reincarnated as another human, animal, ghost, demon, or even a Hindu god.

Dave contrasted this with Christianity, where through the death and resurrection of Christ we are not required to do any work to get to Heaven. 
Ephesians 2:8, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God."
2 Timothy 1:9, " ...who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace."

Please consider volunteering in Student Ministries!

Pastor Dan and "Doctor" Dave have been praying for additional adults to get involved with Student Ministries.  Please consider whether God may be nudging you to fill one of the following volunteer positions: 


Wednesday nights
Most positions can be done before and after the Wednesday night adult classes.
Behind-the-scenes help: Power-point, set-up, clean-up - once a month or more
Cafe - once or twice a month
Info Zone - once or twice a month
Greeters - once or twice a month
Small group leaders - every week, break for summer
 (you're not expected to jump in immediately...first, simply come check things out and get to know the kids)

Saturday nights
Female small group leaders, High School & Middle School (5:30 - 7:30 p.m.)
Info Zone - once or twice a month
(5:30 - 6:00 p.m.; 7:15 - 7:40 p.m.)
Cafe - once or twice a month
(5:30 - 6:00 p.m.; 7:15 - 7:40 p.m.)
The Cafe has been closed for the past 3 Saturday nights because of lack of adult help.

Sunday mornings
Game room "Champion' - responsible for scheduling volunteers for the game room
Game room support - 9 a.m. service, 2nd and 4th Sundays.  (serves from 8:30-8:55, and 10:30-10:55)
Greeter/ check-in  - before 9 or 11 a.m. service - once a month or more
Cafe opening - 8:20 - 8:55 a.m., 1st and 3rd Sundays.

If you would like to volunteer for any of these positions or would like to talk more about where your best fit is, please call or email Pastor Dan or Dave.  Contact info can be found on the left side of the blog.

Middle School summer camp fund-raising opportunities

Camp fund-raising opportunities are now available in the Info Zone:

Hoagie sales
Gene & Boots candy sales
Otis Spunkmeyer cookie dough sales

Your student can pay for camp through fund-raising!
Pick up forms this Wednesday night or on the weekend.

Middle School summer camp information

It's time to start planning for summer!

High Energy Middle School summer camp

June 26 - July 1, 2011

Theme: "Basic Training", a discussion of the basics of faith.

Location: Camp Laurelville

Cost: $300.00

Includes all kinds of fun stuff, games & events, awesome teaching & worship, plus a day at Idlewild!

Early-bird deposit of $150 is due on May 1, 2011, with final payment due on June 5. For late registration after May 1, cost will be $350.00.

Parents are invited to join us for the final worship and teaching on the last day when picking up your student.

Registration forms are available in the Info Zone.

Fundraising

You may raise money for camp through Hoagie sales! Sign up at the Info Zone.

Gene and Boots candy sales are also available. If participating you will be required to pay in advance at Gene and Boots for your box of candy. Call Gene and Boots Candy at 724.837.8427 and mention Cornerstone when placing your order. Please ask them for information on your choices of candy bars, number you will take, and how much you should charge for them.

Pick up information about fundraisers at the Info Zone this weekend.

Scholarship applications: contact Dave House.

Teaching this weekend, March 19-20

Pastor Dan shared a message about what Muslims believe happens to them after death, as the second installment in the series titled, "Afterlife".

Muslims believe in an afterlife called Janna, a garden paradise of everlasting bliss. Entry to Paradise is limited to those who believe in Allah and his messengers, and who have led a good life on earth. In the Qur'an: Surah 2:82 "but those who have faith and work righteousness, they are companions of the Garden: Therin shall they abide (for ever)." A Muslim believes that personal rewards are the goal of heaven: The smallest reward for the people of paradise is an abode where there are 80,000 servants and 72 wives, among other things. The Muslim cannot claim to know he will enter Janna, he just hopes that his good deeds are enough. They believe that those people who do not do the required good works will go to hell.

This was contrasted with the true heaven that God has prepared for believers in Jesus. The focus in heaven is God himself, not the rewards given to each Christian that enters. And, entry to heaven is not something that can be earned. It is a free gift of God through His grace and the blood of Jesus.

Next week in the "Afterlife" series: Buddhism

Coming up....

In Amplified Student Worship this weekend, Scott Uhlinger will be our speaker. He will talk about listening to God, referencing 1 Kings 19: 11-13, James 1:5-6, and Philippians 4:8.

Next week, a new series called Afterlife will begin. Dave will be speaking on Catholicism.

Tonight, March 2nd, JAM will begin the Gladiators series, and Fusion will begin a series titled Pause.

*We are still needing volunteers to head up the fund-raising efforts for the Middle School Summer Camp. Please contact Dave or Ruth if you'd like to sign up or learn more! Thank you!

Weekend teaching summary 2/26 - 2/27/11

"Church Entrance Do Not Block"

Pastor Dan concluded the "Puzzled" series with a teaching from the story of the prodigal son and the response of the older brother. The key passage was Luke: 15-28-31.

The students were challenged to treat non-believers with grace, even if they are offended by them. It is natural to be jealous of others if it seems they are favored over us or if an unfair situation has occurred. This leads to treating others badly, as illustrated by the older brother in the passage. It is important to be mindful of growing pridefulness or negativity toward others. Rather than allow this wrong attitude to take root, we are to purposefully put on grace and have open arms. When they do this, the students are not "blocking" the church entrance!

Whose heart do we most represent: Jesus or the older brother?

Psalm139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Middle school lock-in tonight

Tonight is the Middle school lock-in! I just got word from Dave that last-minute planners are welcome to attend, even if you didn't sign up. "The more the merrier", I heard.

The cost is $3 at the door, and have your students bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and a flashlight for "underground church". It is also school spirit night, so the kids are encouraged to dress in school colors and see which school wins!

It begins at 8 p.m. tonight, and please pick up your students at 8 a.m. Saturday morning.

In case you don't know, underground church is a game where the kids pretend to be a group of Christians in a country that is hostile to believers. Other kids take on the role of the anti-church police and seek them out.

Other activities planned are worship, teaching, watching a movie, insane games, and pizza!

Snow camp.... looking forward to summer camp!

Snow camp was an amazing success. We're praising God for 5 students brought to salvation in Jesus Christ! After learning about that, it is just a bonus to know that there were no injuries, and we're praising God for that, too.

The teaching at Snow Camp was centered around forgiveness, and many of the kids were moved to pray about forgiving others.

Feel free to look at the pictures from Snow Camp, found to the right of this post, labeled "snow camp pictures 2011"

There is quite a buzz among the students about the fun and significance of Snow camp, so naturally they are looking forward to Middle School Summer Camp - to be held at Laurelville Retreat Center in Mt. Pleasant, PA, from June 26 - July 1, 2011.

Registration for summer camp is fast approaching! More details will be available soon.

* Parent Volunteer Opportunity *
There will be opportunities to raise money to help pay for summer camp, and we are needing a few parents to step up and lead these efforts. Hoagie sales, Joe Corbi's food sales, Candy from Gene & Boots, and Car Washes are all possible fund raisers. It's a fun, short-term way to get involved!

If you are interested in learning more about these fund raising opportunities, please email Ruth at studentinfo@cornerstonelive.net.

Teaching this weekend; Feb 19-20

This weekend the teaching in the Zone was titled, "Playin' the Game". Dave shared from his heart about how harmful it is to God, the kids, and other people when they try to fit in with the world and do whatever it takes to be accepted.

The three main points were:
1) Playing the game tarnishes God's image (Ezekiel 36: 20-21, Romans 2:24, Titus 1:16, 2 Cor 5:20)
2) Playing the game may impress others, but God thinks it stinks (Isaiah 1:13-20)
3) Playing the game leads to fruitlessness (Mark 11:13-14, Luke 13:6-9)

A verse that struck me from this lesson was Isaiah 1:19-20. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best of the land, but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.

Dave gave examples of bad language, dressing provocatively, lying, using pornography, and making poor media choices as areas that Christian students need to be careful not to tarnish God's image and bring fruitlessness into their lives.

I hope this helps you strike up fruitful conversation with your student this week!
God bless you.

Upcoming Parent Seminar

Walt Mueller / CPYU present...

Hope and Healing for Broken Kids seminar

with Marv Penner & Rich Van Pelt

Saturday, April 9th, 2011, Monroeville Assembly of God

REGISTER ONLINE: http://www.cpyu.org/

Parents, you are invited to attend this one-day training seminar for youth workers, educators, parents, pastors, and counselors.

REGISTER TODAY! Register before 3/1/2011 to receive the early bird rate!

Saturday, April 9, 2011 • 8:45am–5pm

Monroeville Assembly of God Church

4561 Old William Penn Highway, Monroeville, PA 15146

(located about 20 minutes outside of Pittsburgh)

Brokenness and pain run deep and wide in today’s youth culture. Our kids are victims of family breakups, violence, incest, date rape, sexual abuse, and other devastating circumstances. Today’s kids are faced with issues of increasing complexity, but ignoring these issues is simply not an option. Working with hurting kids should not be taken lightly.

This CPYU one day-training seminar will help you answer the question “What do I do now?” and give you the confidence to listen and respond wisely to what your kids unload on you. Youth specialists Marv Penner and Rich Van Pelt will help you unpack and respond to the complex realities a majority of kids face today. You’ll be equipped to offer a biblically-rooted path towards wholeness—a path we’re all going to be called to walk with hurting young friends.

Presenters:

Rich Van Pelt is the National Director of Ministry Relationships for Compassion International. Rich has expertise in dealing with struggling adolescents, crisis intervention, and postvention—helping kids and parents navigate some of life’s toughest stuff. He is the author of several books including The Youth Worker’s Guide to Helping Kids in Crisis and A Parent’s Guide to Helping Kids in Crisis.

Marv Penner heads up Youth Specialties, Canada and is director of All About Youth and the National Center for Excellence in Youth Ministry. In addition to his teaching, speaking and writing, Marv specializes in parent/adolescent conflict resolution, sexual abuse recovery, eating disorders and marriage and family issues. He is the author of several books including Help! My Kids Are Hurting and Hope and Healing for Kids Who Cut.

Schedule:

8:00–8:45 Registration

8:45–10:15 Welcome to a World of Hurt

10:30–Noon Responding When the Hurt is Deep

Noon–1:15 Lunch Break (on your own at one of several local quick eateries)

1:15–2:15 Hurts So Good: Understanding and Helping Kids Who Cut

2:30–3:30 How To Save A Life: Understanding and Helping Suicidal Adolescents

3:35–5:00 A Biblical Model for Hope and Healing

Parenting is like gardening

The topic of parenting frequently comes up in circles where there are teens in the family. Typically, parents express frustration and doubt in themselves as they witness their kids making poor choices or responding negatively to teaching. Pastor Dan and I were talking about how we would love it for kids to be like a recipe: Put in all the right ingredients, follow the specific directions, and then they’ll come out wonderfully! It doesn’t work that way, does it? We decided that kids are more like seeds in a garden. They start out undeveloped, but generally respond well to good conditions. We choose good soil, add nutrients (not over-fertilizing!), and give water. If we put the seeds in a sunny spot, God provides the sunshine the they need to grow. But, the seeds must respond to the conditions provided, and it takes time for the seed to become beautiful or useful. Aren’t kids like that? We, as parents, must walk in obedience to God as we provide a nurturing environment, much prayer, Bible teaching (but not overloading), and a continuous relationship with our kids as they grow up. It can be painful for them to grow (and painful to watch them), but as God shines His love & guidance on them and we do our part to nudge them out into His light, God does the work on their hearts. Then, after time, we may see the fruit of our labor, and witness the beauty that God produced in their lives. All we can do is obey the Lord to the best of our understanding and ability! So, the next time you feel like blaming yourself for the poor choices your teen is making, stop and ask God if you should do anything differently (and do what you feel led to do), and then pray that He will shine into their lives mightily. We, as Christian parents, can rest in that! Praise the Lord!

Weekly update for parents

• Monthly flyers are available in the Info Zone. Come up to the Zone to pick one up this weekend! These are updated monthly, and are prepared to remind the students of upcoming events and teaching schedules.

• This weekend (February 5-6) offers a great opportunity for your son or daughter to bring a friend to church. Small group time will be extended at each service to allow the students ample time to connect with each other and their leaders.

• High School Missions Trip application deadline is Feb 6. Feel free to contact Pastor Dan at Dhertzler@cornerstonelive.net to have your questions answered. Packets are available in the Info Zone.

• Middle School is having a lock-in on Feb 25-26, from 8 p.m. – 8 a.m.; cost is $3.00 at the door. As a parent, this is an exciting opportunity to serve. Please consider joining the group as they worship, hear great teaching, play insane games, eat pizza, watch a movie, and much more. Please contact Dave House at dhouse@cornerstonelive.net if you would like to come. (You need to have completed “Safe Place for Kids” training.)

• Please pray for the students and leaders who will be attending Snow Camp on Feb 11-13. Thank you!

All activities cancelled tonight!

Due to the weather, Wednesday Night Live will not be held tonight. Stay safe and warm!

New blog, new series, lots of fun!

The Parent blog begins!

This weekend, January 22-23, Amplified Student Ministries (grades 6-12) will begin a new series called "Puzzled". Students will learn about and discuss the purpose of the church. The series will run through Feb 26-27.

Wednesday night JAM (grades 6-8) started a 6 week series on Jan 22 called "My family...how do I deal with them?".

Wednesday night FUSION (grades 7-12) started a series called "Download", which deals with making media choices. High School students also have a bonus time at 6pm for those who want to dive into the Word. They meet in room 203.

Wednesday night LIVE is coming up on January 26th! All students from grades 6-12 are encouraged to invite their friends to "Winter Meltdown". There will be challenges and games, along with Dino wings and pop (free to first time friends).

SnowCamp 2011 is coming up on Feb 11-13. There are extra spots now available, so visit the Info Zone for information and registration forms. Visit www.snowcamp.com for more information about the camp.

High School Mission trip applications are available at the Info Zone and are due on Sunday, February 6.
9-10th grades are going to Mexico on June 11-18, 2011
11-12th grades are going to Haiti on July 20-27, 2011
Please pick up a packet that explains what the trip involves and requires.