Don't Fall for the Lottery Economy

From MintLife

Summer is over...

Summer is a great time, isn't it? Even if you're working full time, it seems that things move a little slower, or somehow don't feel so rushed. Sure, it's crazy getting packed and ready to go to the shore, or trying to get a home project done - but there are times to just relax and enjoy the weather, or get to know the neighbors again while working outside. Maybe you took a few days and traveled to somewhere new, or stayed on "porchville" and enjoyed a good book. 

Amy and I got in a few good trips in RoadAbode, and also enjoyed helping out with youth and other things at RPC. Over our summer, we were able to meet up with a few of you, and share in your joys, and your sufferings. We feel truly blessed to know you, and be a small part in some of your lives.

Now that summertime has passed, we'd like to start meeting as a group again. Study scripture together, learn from each other, and help one another. Trouble is, as YA Group facilitators, we're unsure how to do that for you. "First Saturdays" through the winter and spring didn't seem to be as popular an idea as thought. And we never seemed to get a consensus on outings or retreats. We had suggestions to make the group "all singles", or "all marrieds" - but with those suggestions, there was not enough of either group to make a whole.

So what could make the YA Group work? Different Venue? Different Bible Study? More Outings or Less? Perhaps different facilitators? Community Involvement?

Or are all these needs already being met by other opportunities?

We'd love to hear from you,

Blessing to Your House,

Mike and Amy K.

(267) 702-6453

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

rpcya.rpcnet.org

Now on "SermonCasts" - Kevin and Cindy Gourlay

Howdy RPC YAs!

This past Sunday we were blessed by a visit from Cindy and Kevin Gourlay. Kevin is a YA who grew up at RPC, and felt led into a life of ministry to bring the Word of God to people thru acting.

Kevin did this thru joining Covenant Players.  Covenant Players pioneered the use of drama as a communications resource in the church. Units of Covenant Players travel throughout the world communicating the reality of the Gospel to communities in churches, schools, and street corners. 

For years, Kevin served throughout Latin America, Learning the culture and language, and relying on God's blessings as he traveled with his troupe from one place to another. It was in Latin America that Kevin met Cindy, while working together. After several years serving in Latin America, the two are now serving in Germany, Cindy's home country.

Cindy is now Unit Leader of the RHEIN UNIT of Covenant Players. Cindy leads the unit with Kevin.

You can catch Kevin's Sermon on Christian Family, Forgiveness and Community; and the Performance by both Cindy and Kevin at 

http://www.rpcnet.org/sermons

The recording starts with Kevin's Sermon, and the performance starts somewhere after the 14 minute mark - you'll need to turn up your speakers at that point since neither was wearing a microphone.

Download the mp3, or listen right on the page.

To Learn more or contact Kevin and Cindy, you can check Covenant Players or Facebook

Peace to your house!

Mike and Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Howdy RPC YAs!

Hope you are enjoying the Memorial Day Weekend. Pastor Bronc's Sermon really was interesting on the Subject of Sundays as the "Christian Memorial Day" You can listen to it at http://www.rpcnet.org/sermons

Know someone who served (or is serving) our country in the military or branch of service? remember to take the time to thank them for the freedoms they've upheld for all of us.

What's Coming Up

Come out for the last re:Fresh of the season. Worship and time to hang out after. Starting at 7:30pm on Wednesday.

This Saturday is "First Saturday" for the RPC YA Group  7pm Saturday June 5th.

We will be having First Saturday at the Annex - in the Parlour. A simple meal, then delve into God's Word. Our Discussion will be on Matthew 6:1-34 

Sunday June 6th at 7pm is a Multi-Congregation/Denomination concert benefiting the community 4th of July Parade. Freewill donation, refreshments, and silent auction all at Roxborough Presbyterian. Come out and support this great community gathering!

The 4th of July Parade will actually be on Monday, July 5th this year. Come out for the parade, and then the Picnic and Patriotic service afterward at RPC. 

Have Questions? Let us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace to Your House!
Mike & Amy K.
rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Where Does the Time Go?

Last Post into the RPC YA Blog was in April, and here it is, already Mid-May. Where Does the Time Go? 

I know I've been busy, with family, with work, and some of the ministries at RPC. But some days, I just wonder if I've accomplished what God wanted in the time I allotted.

Am I being a good steward of my time? Or should our lives be more event oriented than time oriented?

Jesus lived in a culture in which people did not wear watches on their wrists and did not hang clocks on every wall. Sometimes he responded immediately and went to people, and at other times he delayed his response or withdrew to be alone. His ministry was event oriented, not time oriented. We don't hear about Jesus having  a 10:30 am service once a week, or making sure he taught a weekly Torah study. Instead, his life WAS his ministry. Ever moment could possibly be a teaching moment. Every day, to be shared with God our Father. 

But even Jesus at times needed time alone, to rejuvenate and be with His Father. You may want to "escape to a mountain" as Jesus did.  At times he got away from people, and he encouraged his disciples to do the same thing. Some people may believe that a Christian should not refuse to spend time with people who want them to stay, but looking to the Bible, that was not the case with the apostle Paul.  At the end of his second term he briefly visited Ephesus, leaving two other missionaries to continue the work.  When the people of Ephesus asked him to spend more time with them, he declined, saying that he would come back if it was God's will (Acts 18: 20-21). Not only did Paul leave when asked to stay longer, but also at times he purposely avoided seeing people when he was in a hurry.  At the end of his third term and in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, Paul decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time there.  Instead he stopped south of Ephesus and asked the elders of the church to come down to meet him briefly (Acts 20:16-38). We can't answer every call, but we can pray for God's guidance on those we are best suited to answer, or that need our talents the most.

In our North American, Big City Culture, time seems to control all our responsibilities - tied to that minute hand of the clock on the wall.. But we must remind ourselves who really controls what's going on. So  take the time to slow down, be with your God, and be with family. God desire is to be with us, and we must take time to abide by Him. 

What's Coming Up?

Tonight - Be re:Freshed - 7:30pm at RPC - Worshipful Music, a message to learn from, and Fellowship and food after. Come and Partake!

Spring Fair - Saturday, May 22nd - Flea market, fun for the kids, food and music, all to benefit the 2010 Mission Trip. 

Community Garden - There may still be a plot or two left in the Community Garden. Check with Elizabeth if you want one, or just want to help out!

VBS this Summer - What do you think about helping teach kids about our God? Have another talent you can share? Contact Pam or Georgina Vercoe for info how you can be a part of this ministry.

Got Questions?

Let Us Be Your Stepping Stone!

Peace to Your House!

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Have You Seen?

Have You Seen? Next time you're at Roxborough Presbyterian, Look UP! The steeple has a fresh look to it. A nice fresh coat of paint. And in the next few weeks there'll be some roofing and other painting going on as well. Keep an eye open. 

If you see Greg G and Kelly G out and about (or at re:Fresh 7pm Wednesday Nites) Give 'em a big Congrats, they got engaged last weekend.

Our next Outing can be in a new van! RPC Session approved the purchase of a 12 passenger Ford Van. Ducted rear air and heat, double swinging entry doors, and even an input jack for an MP3 player. 

Speaking of Outing, what's next for the RPC YA Group? Trip downtown, out bowling, or to Morris Arboretum to enjoy a spring picnic? Give us some Ideas.

In two Saturdays, it's First Saturday Again! Come out and be Fed In Body and Spirit! Hope to See YA Out.

We leave you with the Comedy Genius (or is it Madness?) of Dave and Brian, a Comedy Duo out of Glenside and Philly. Check out their latest rockin' music video called "The Dork Anthem" on YouTube. There's a possibility they may be coming to RPC in the near future - watch for more info.

Peace to Your House!
Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Needin' a Weedin' This Saturday - and other Stuff

  

This Saturday, come out to the garden for some fun in the sun! Help out, Have Fun, And support the Community Garden This Saturday, from 9:30am to 2:30pm. There will be teams working on new plots, rain-barrel, and mulching projects, plus fun, food, kids activities, and music from local bands.

Kiss of the sun for pardon. 

Song of the birds for mirth.

You're closer to God's heart in a garden,

Than any place else on earth.

 -- Dorothy Frances Gurney

Hope to see YA Out!

OTHER UPDATES - Megan Terry is still in Jefferson Hospital.  Please continue to keep her and family in prayer. 

Heather Miller is soon heading to Alaska! (Heather is employed by the National Park Service and comes out to re:Fresh some nights) Pray she has safe travels and is able to transition well to the new environs.

Speaking of re:Fresh....

re:Fresh Wednesday Night @ 7:30pm - Come out and be re:Freshed - Mid-week!  Depending on the weather, perhaps we'll be doing an "Open Air" version of re:Fresh soon. 

Have Questions?

Let us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace to Your House,

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Maimonides Ladder of Charity

Maimonides was known as a great twelfth-century philosopher and an expert in Jewish law. He organized the tradition's many insights and directives into a graded hierarchy of tzedakah (Charity) -  8 steps - from the most sublime to the barely acceptable, taking into account the effects on recipient and donor alike. 

From Maimonides writings, in  the 12th century:

There are eight degrees or steps in the duty of charity. 

• The first and lowest degree is to give, but with reluctance or regret. This is the gift of the hand, but not of the heart.
• The second is, to give cheerfully, but not proportionately to the distress of the sufferer.
• The third is, to give cheerfully and proportionately, but not until solicited.
• The fourth is, to give cheerfully, proportionately, and even unsolicited; but to put it in the poor man's hand, thereby exciting in him the painful emotion of shame.
• The fifth is, to give charity in such a way that the distressed may receive the bounty, and know their benefactor, without their being known to him. Such was the conduct of some of our ancestors, who used to tie up money in the corners of their cloaks, so that the poor might take it unperceived.
• The sixth, which rises still higher is to know the objects of our bounty, but remain unknown to them. Such was the conduct of those of our ancestors, who used to convey their charitable gifts into poor people's dwellings; taking care that their own persons and names should remain unknown.
• The seventh is still more meritorious, namely to bestow charity in such a way that the benefactor many not know the relieved persons, nor they the name of their benefactors, as was done by our charitable forefathers during the existence of the Temple. For there was in that holy building a place called the Chamber of the Silent, wherein the good deposited secretly whatever their generous hearts suggested, and from which the poor were maintained with equal secrecy.
• Lastly, the eighth, and the most meritorious of all, is to anticipate charity, by preventing poverty; namely, to assist the reduced fellowman, either by a considerable gift, or a loan of money, or by teaching him a trade, or by putting him in the way of business, so that he may earn an honest livelihood; and not be forced to the dreadful alternative of holding out his hand for charity. To this Scripture alludes when it says: and if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee, then thou shalt relieve him; yea, though he be a stranger or a sojourner; that he may live with thee. This is the highest step and the summit of charity's golden ladder.

Charity is not just about money, or donating goods. When we "do" Charity, we make changes not to just our community neighbors, but to our own hearts and minds as well. As a young adult, it might be time to self-assess where your heart is, and in what manner you wish to be involved in what Jesus has commanded us all to do.

Peace to Your House,

Mike & Amy K

For RPC YA Group

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Remember Nicodemus?

Remember Nicodemus?

During the burial of Jesus, something unusual happened — an underrated gesture from an "outsider" named Nicodemus. You will remember Nicodemus if you re-read the scene in John 3 in which he asked, "How can anyone get back in his mother's womb?" in response to Jesus' talk about being born again.

Nicodemus' question drew a reply from Jesus that's become perhaps the most evangelistically successful verse of all time — John 3:16. So what happened to the guy who heard those words from Jesus Himself? At first glance, not much!

In his Gospel, John concluded this scene with a nonchalant "After this," giving no indication of heart change in Nicodemus. In John 7, Nicodemus showed up again,  defending Jesus before some noisy Pharisees hell-bent on arresting Jesus — still, no concrete evidence of conversion.

In John 19 we find Nicodemus' third and final appearance, at Jesus' burial. Read this scene; and, if you have a pen & paper handy, mark down on paper every mention of Nicodemus. Underline any details you learn about him.

Did you catch the amount of spices Nicodemus brought to the burial? Seventy-five pounds! Normal Jewish burials called for five pounds of spices — an amount typically on hand in a Jewish household. Seventy-five pounds was an extraordinary amount — the quantity used to bury royalty. 

Sound like Nicodemus got it - Jesus as his King  - if a bit late.

Nicodemus showed up in broad daylight, declaring allegiance — in stark contrast with his first encounter with Jesus. What's more, you can't hide 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes. Picture 15 five-pound bags of  sugar, or the biggest dog-food bag at Pet Smart! Imagine a quantity that "makes a statement" — and that's what Nicodemus brought.

It was a bold move, but it came late. By waiting until Jesus' death to experience his King, Nicodemus missed a once-in-creation opportunity. Never again would Jesus walk the Earth exactly as He had then. Nicodemus could have  witnessed the miracles. He could have laughed with Jesus. Cried with Jesus. 

In Jesus' day, many believing Jews dialed down their commitment to Him for fear of the authorities. Perhaps that's what kept Nicodemus from all-out discipleship. What fears keep us dialed down in our relationships with Jesus?

To experience His mercy requires that we honestly admit the failures that His mercy can cover. Could fear of admitting we've blown it keep us from basking in all the mercy we can get? Temptation can be boiled down to a fear of missing out. Might this fear throw to the curb our ability to receive Jesus' strength to overcome temptation?

Or maybe we've thought our current spiritual plateau is as good as it gets. Does fear of asking a new set of questions keep us from experiencing a level of spiritual existence that's better than we could ask for or imagine?

Who knows what fears Nicodemus overcame to take that bold step alongside Joseph of Arimathea, another stealth disciple. What fears can you boldly step through in order to know Jesus now? Take a moment and think about your fears and weaknesses, and then look at each, asking something like, "How can I fully experience Jesus through this fear?" or "What once-in-creation characteristic of Jesus will help me in this weakness?"

icodemus wore the moniker "the man who visited Jesus at night" throughout John's Gospel. Now we can see him as the man who publicly crowned Jesus in the light of day. It took the duration of Jesus' ministry for him to make that change. We can start now.

If you need a tangible step, buy a five-pound bag of sugar and have yourself a coronation. When a someone asks why there's a bag of sugar in your office or car, explain away — holding nothing back. You're living a once-in creation opportunity.

-----

Study condensed from YouthWorker.com

Last Nights Maundy Thursday Service with the performance by 180 Dance Company was Moving, even with tech glitches. Did you get to experience it?

Hope to see you out for the Easter Egg Hunt, First Saturday, or Easter Services - How bout all three!

Peace to Your House!

Mike & Amy K.

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

rpcya.rpcnet.org

How Did Your First Day of Spring Go?

Howdy RPC YAs!

"Spring shows what God can do with a drab and dirty world."

-   Virgil A. Kraft 

Hope you were able to enjoy the wonderful warmth of our first day of spring. It truly felt like a blessing after our blizzard of a winter!  Amy, the girls and I (and Molly the pup) enjoyed the day together at a Doggy Easter Egg Hunt to benefit  an animal shelter network. 

Tonight Jeff Mitchell will be leading the re:Fresh Band for our time of Praise and Worship. Our Speaker will be Rev. Bronc Radak.  Come out for a time to be refreshed by praising the glory of the Lord.

The Easter Cantata "Love Grew Where the Blood Fell" will be Sunday March 28th during the 10:30am Service. 

"RISEN"

Maundy Thursday will be April 1st at 7:30pm Though this is usually a solemn service, this year we will be uplifted by the 180 Dance Company, performing Risen 

Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, April 3rd starting at 10am. 

JUST FOR RPC YAs - April 3rd - Come out for First Saturday - 7pm at the parlor in the Annex. A simple meal, Learning about our faith, and then games - or head out after on your own adventure! Childcare provided. Should we plan an outing for April? Let's discuss that as well.

Save Saturday April 17th for the "Needin' a Weedin" Work Party! Come enjoy music, food, and fun activities as we prepare the Community Garden for the Growing Season. More info is available here and you can join the event on Facebook.

Come see the Youth Talent Show Saturday April 24th. More info here

Peace to your House!

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@rpcnet.org

CORRECTION Welcome Springtime! Welcome Easter! What's Coming UP

The intrepid Jeff Mitchell Will be Leading the Re:Fresh band April 24th

THIS Week the 17th -  is Musically Led by Scott G - Musician Extraordinaire

Hope to see Ya Out!

Mike K.

Have questions? Let us be your stepping stone!

Peace to Your House,
Mike & Amy K.
rpcya.rpcnet.org

Welcome Springtime! Welcome Easter! What's Coming UP

Howdy RPC YAs!

Welcome Springtime!

The clocks have sprung forward, the snow has melted, and it's time to check out some happenings at RPC!

First off, re:Fresh THIS Wednesday Nite Service (Starts at 7:30pm) music will be lead by the intrepid Jeff Mitchell - one of the originating members of RPC re:Fresh

Easter week is coming up fast. 

The Easter Cantata "Love Grew Where the Blood Fell" will be Sunday March 28th during the 10:30am Service. 

Maundy Thursday will be April 1st at 7:30pm Though this is usually a solemn service, this year we will be uplifted by the 180 Dance Company, performing Risen You can become a Facebook Fan of the 180 Dance Company here

Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, April 3rd starting at 10am. Other Fun activities for the kids too!

Also on April 3rd - Come out for First Saturday - 7pm at the parlor in the Annex. A simple meal, Learning about our faith, and then games - or head out after on your own adventure! Childcare provided.

 For those that are Early Risers there will be a Community Sunrise Service will be held at Gorgas Park at 7am, Sunday April 4th

Traditional Easter Services will be at 10:30am at Roxborough Presbyterian. Come together to praise our Risen Lord!

Other Stuff Coming Up

Save Saturday April 17th for the "Needin' a Weedin" Work Party! Come enjoy music, food, and fun activities as we prepare the Community Garden for the Growing Season. More info is available here and you can join the event on Facebook.

Come see the Youth Talent Show Saturday April 24th. More info here

Have questions? Let us be your stepping stone!

Peace to Your House,
Mike & Amy K.
rpcya.rpcnet.org

March - First Saturday Coming Up!

Howdy YAs! This Saturday is First Saturday! So come our to the Parlor in the Annex building at 7pm, and enjoy a simple meal, and some discussion & learning. After, we'll play some games, or head out on your own adventure. 

Our study topic "Decisions, Decisions" will be be focused on Matthew 1:18 - 4:25 

Beat Cabin Fever! Come out and join in Praising God at RPCs re:Fresh Service. Wednesday 7:30pm. Praise Music, learning and fellowship.

Stop on Out to RPC Before the Snow Does!

Howdy RPC YAs! Starting to feel a bit of Cabin Fever? Then make sure to stop out for re:Fresh Tonight!  7:30pm at RPC

Come and sing some praises, learn a bit about our Lord, then have some time to fellowship together. Snacks too!

So get out before you get snowed in again!

Coming up - First Saturday for March - Come out to the Parlor in the Annex for a light meal, then some learning and discussion on Matthew. Then some games or head out on your own after! Starts at 7pm

Love to see you out!

Peace to your house,

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Blizzard of 2010

That's what the Reporters are calling it, and I think I agree.

In honor of the Blizzard of 2010, I Created this Snow-themed Wordlist Game. Check it out at the below link. Can you find them all?

http://www.rpcnet.org/philly-snowday-1

Stay Safe, Stay Warm and Check in with your Neighbors. Help 'em if you can!

If you want to chat, I got off from work today! Whoo Hoo!

Peace to your House!

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Another Day, Another Snow Storm

We'll maybe you're not - yet - but it does seem like it's preempted a few of the happenings for Roxborough Presbyterian this winter. 

The latest activity to fall victim to the white stuff is re:Fresh this Wednesday Night. 

re:Fresh is Canceled for Tomorrow Evening due to  - Snow.

We hope your able to stay inside out of the cold wet stuff, if not we hope you can stay bundled up and safe.

If you've done your shoveling or fun in the snow tomorrow, grab a warm cup of beverage, and look over the Matthew Bible Study - that was also preempted by falling flurries - From this past First Saturday. All the materials you'd need are available here. 

So stay safe, enjoy the day off if you can, and take some time to check in with your friends, family and neighbors.

Peace to Your House!

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

First Saturday's Bible Study - Today

As the Mayor has asked us to stay off the streets, we will NOT be meeting at the Parlor today for First Saturday because of the SnowStorm.

However, Amy has diligently formatted the planned Bible Study and we have placed the information for you on the RPC YA site to read, or as a printable download. There is an interactive map linked to work with as well.

We plan to do the study ourselves - this evening - at 7pm on-line. We hope you feel led do the same. Email any questions between 7pm and 8pm, we'll see if we can get back to you. So stay out of the cold, get comfy at home, and read & learn about Jesus' Lineage.

You can get to the Bible Study by clicking this link

Some study info:

The Family Tree of Jesus - Matthew 1:1-17

The purpose of the Gospels is to give us a clear picture of Jesus so we can get to know him better.  They tell us who he is, what he came to do, and what he wants us to do.  Mathew's unique snapshot gives us a picture of Jesus the King .  By the time you reach the end of the Gospel of Matthew, your knowledge of Jesus should be deeper, your picture of him should be clearer, and your understanding of what he wants you to be and do should be more mature.  In the end, if you are willing, you will know him better too.

Also.....

If you are taking a walk to the store - just because you can - check in with your neighbors who are not as able if you can pick-up something for them.  And if you go out to shovel or clean off you car, try to help others as well.

Got Questions? Let us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace to your House!

Mike & Amy K.

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Hope in Sixty Seconds...

Today seconds after dropping the eldest and friends off to school (I'm the morning car-pool dad) I was given a choice and a chance. 

A choice to get involved, and a chance to make a difference.

Getting through North Philly at 7:30am, especially the intersection of Olney and Ogontz, can be  a challenge. As I tetris'd my way from the student drop zone to the turn lane to head towards work, a slow moving car turned into the intersection. It was slow moving because the driver, not dressed for winter weather,  was pushing the apparently stalled vehicle by running alongside, hanging onto the wheel with the door open.  And my immediate thoughts? "Why is he turning HERE? There's nowhere to stop that thing here. Gah! there's no emergency lane. Now he's gonna have to push that thing uphill to get out of the way. How can I get around THIS?." Yep, I was thinking some pretty un-gracious thoughts at that point. Thoughts of helping were tweaking the back my mind, but how was still banging around in there. One thing changed that. 

The driver two cars ahead, waiting for his turn at the turn lane (and at this point  blocked by the disabled car) got out, walked to the back of the car, and pushed. No yelling, no mean gestures, no look of contempt. Just Action. As the two struggled - I got the clear communication of what to do.

Get out and push.

So I took  position next to the well dressed Samaritan and followed his lead. He grunted thanks (as only we guys can) as  we pushed the car a half  block up, into a parking spot. The driver yelled thanks as we both turned, and walk-trotted back to our cars. As I put my car into drive and queued up again to turn, I realized that the whole episode had taken only about sixty seconds. It renewed my hope in this world just a bit. 

The guy who broke down didn't ask for help. But it was pretty evident he needed it. It was pretty evident that the Samaritan and I were not from the neighborhood, and were just passing through on our way - probably to work. We never met before, and will probably not meet again.

But we all changed each other - even for a bit.

All in Sixty Seconds.

Now some may argue we didn't change anything. The Samaritan & I were presented with a "problem" and rectified it for our own gain. Others may say I didn't do enough, and should have checked what else I could have done for the driver, or better yet - check if he knew Christ as his savior. 

I think I did exactly what was intended. For I believe, being involved those sixty seconds  weren't intended to change the driver, the Samaritan, or any observers. It was meant to change me.

1 John 3:18 Explains that by doing what we talk about, by being involved, by "practicing real love" we begin to live truly in the reality of God. And what better way to combat self doubts of your own integrity? 

I was a stepping stone for an unknown man for sixty seconds. Just think what could be accomplished if each of us took a minute of time to give hope to another. Better yet, instead of sixty seconds, what about sixty minutes? A day?  A Week? 

Whatever you can share, what you may discover in the end, is the hope you have given - is to yourself.

Mike K.

------

What's Coming Up:

We're suppose to meet for "First Saturday" this weekend. There's also suppose to be a all-day snowstorm that may preempt that. Before heading out, contact Amy or Myself. If you need our number - Reply to this message. 

Big Game Party this Sunday in the Youth Room on the Big Screen. Stop by for a Quarter, or the whole Game.

Agape Dinner and Musial Extravaganza is Coming up Feb 20th. See Greg or Kelly G (yea, I know their "Gs" are different, but still) for tickets - limited seating first come, first served.

Stay Safe with the Snow, and Remember to Spread a little Hope.

Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier. ~Author Unknown

Got Questions? 

Let us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace  to Your House!

Mike & Amy K.

rpcya.rpcnet.org

First Saturday and Big Game Party

First Saturday will be next Saturday February 6th. Come out at 7pm for a light meal, and then to delve into God's Word. After we'll have a movie and/or card games - or head out on your own adventure!

On Sunday, February 7th Come on out for the Big Game

Watch the BIG GAME on the BIG SCREEN! 

When: Sunday, February 7th

Where: RPC Youth Room

Time: 5:30 pmRPC provides the couches. Please bring a snack or a drink. Wear your Eagles jersey. There'll have our annual Two-Hand Touch Football Game at Halftime!

Hope to see you out!

Mike & Amy K. 

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

Sunday - 1:30p

Howdy RPC YAs!

Just a Reminder below from fellow Ya Bob D about singing and sharing at Andorra Woods Sunday.
-----------------
Hey Crew,

RPC is going to the Andorra Woods Healthcare Center tomorrow (Sunday). We are meeting at church at 1:30 and the service begins at 2:30. If you can make it, great! If not, no problem. Bring your instrument, and music, I'll have song sheets. There will be 8 songs.

Grace and Peace,

BobbyD.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes....Introducing First Saturdays

Howdy RPC YAs!

There is nothing as Constant as Change, so says the Greek Philosopher Heraclitus. Or if you love 70's-80's glam rockers, Davie Bowie's Changes re-inerates the fact by saying we need to accept change as an inevitable part of life.

So What's Changing?

After listening to your needs and input, we're going to change the way the discussion groups meet. The RPC YA Group is going to start First Saturdays, where  every month the first Saturday we will meet in the Annex Building (Where the RPC office is located) Have a simple meal, and do a study - more centered around  Biblical teaching,  that relate to your life. After the study, you can hang out for a movie or card and board games, or head out on your own adventure. We'll still have separated childcare for those with little ones during the study portion of the evening. We're hoping to get a solid group that really wants to learn, think about, and commit on how their faith works, and affects their everyday life.

 Our first "First Saturday" will be February 6th around 7pm

Also, we'd like to organize some RoadTrips that are "Young Adults Only". We would still be providing babysitting, but it would not be at the venue our RoadTrip is going to. Other Facilitators may lead these outings as well. Any ideas for RoadTrips, let us know. 

What's Coming Up and Happening

• re:Fresh Wednesday - 7:30pm  - message by Elder Scott Helms - He has a great Sunday 9am Morning Class you should check out.
• This Sunday January 17th, join the RPC Family as we bring a little Joy to those at Andorra Woods Healthcare, near Ridge Pike and Northwestern Avene. Time is 1:30pm - please chat with RPC YA Bob DiCicco for more info.
• Hoagie Coupons -  That Benefit the 2010 Mission Trip are available. See Greg G or Kelly G for those before or after re:Fresh, or Sunday Services.
• Agape Feast - Will be held Saturday February 20th - With this year's Theme - Rockin' Thru Time - Check with Any Mission Tripper for Tickets.
• We are trying to get a RPC YA Retreat together for the Weekend of March 12 thru 14th - Friday Night to Sunday Afternoon. Venue is Kirkwood Camp in the Poconos, and we would be doing some outdoor activities  - including Maple Sugaring. Cost would be $79 for the weekend, including meals and lodging. Please let us know your interest.

In April - A RoadTrip to Lancaster or Longwood? Interested? Let us know!
In June - A RoadTrip to enjoy the family-friendly Comedy of Tim Hawkins? Interested? Let us know!

Got Questions? Need Answers? Let Us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace to Your House!

Mike & Amy K.

ya.at.rpc@gmail.com

rpcya.rpcnet.org

ya-at-rpc.blogspot.com

RPC YAs - Welcome to the New Year!

Howdy RPC YAs! We Want Your Favorite Help Links!

Have a Great Epiphany!

Today, January 6th Marks Epiphany, the coming of the Magi.

Why is this important?

The Epiphany celebrates God's revealing or manifesting of Jesus' identity as true God, Messiah, and Savior of the world. It not only commemorates the fact that Jesus appeared to save us, but that God revealed the identity of Jesus to the world. The Magi - or Wise Men - Came to present gifts to the new King. They represented not Jerusalem, not the Jews, but the whole World. It shows that Jesus is Lord for all. And then the Magi did what we all should be doing. They didn't just hang out with Christ and stop their journey there. They continued - back to their homelands, and along the way - let everyone know of Christ the King. Listen to Pastor Bronc's Sermon Taking the Next Leap to ponder how this is important in your life a bit more.

Be re:Freshed in 2010!

re:Fresh Starts up again for 2010 tonight 7:30pm. Make like the Wise Men and follow the light. Come out and be re:Freshed!

New WebSite - Just for You!

Hope the start to 2010 has been smooth for you.  Over the Christmas Holiday, we put some finishing touches on a new place you can check out - http://rpcya.rpcnet.org/ Take a wander over, and let us know what other information we should add there. 

We've built this information access point with you in mind. We've try to integrate information that you can find helpful by providing different areas to check out

-Life Helps is for those Life skills that we all need, anything from doing laundry, to renting an apartment, to grocery shopping and everything in between, you can find here. 

-Spiritual Helps gives information on how to strengthen your Spiritual walk. Verses to help strengthen you when times are tough, and links to bibles, and other ways of being closer to God.

We'd also like to hear some of your favorite links and/or tips for living a YA life. - links and tips that help you in your life in whatever way possible. Just email us a link and/or tip to check out, and why you like it. Then we can build a special page and categorize them. Help each other and share your favorite links!

Pondering Something? Let us be your Stepping Stone!

Peace to you and your house,

Mike and Amy K.

ya.at.rpc@rpcnet.org

http://rpcya.rpcnet.org/