St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Vacation Bible School

2011-05-01T13:35:00.004-07:00

July 11 to 15 ● All students entering K-5th grade in the fall are welcome to join us for “Pandamania: Where God is WILD about you!” This exciting programs features music, crafts, games, movies, yummy snacks and lots of fun...plus, you’ll learn about God and Jesus in a new, exciting way! Registration forms are available now; bring one to a friend. Lots of adult and youth volunteers are needed to make this program successful. For more information, or to register and/or volunteer, please contact Jennifer at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com. Please register by June 1.

Bible Presentation

2011-05-01T13:35:00.003-07:00

Bibles will be presented to graduating 5th graders on Sunday, May 22 and graduating 12th graders on June 19. To ensure that your son or daughter is included, please call or email Jennifer Cross Miller (685-4720, jennifer.standrews@gmail.com) with your child’s name and grade. Thank you!

Potluck Playdate

2011-05-01T13:35:00.001-07:00

Sunday, May 22 at 5pm ● Come get to know other families with kids at our informal potluck! Please bring a main dish, salad or dessert to share. The kids can play, while the adults chat and get to know each other! Hope to see you there!

Youth Sunday

2011-05-01T13:34:00.002-07:00

Sunday, May 22 at 9am and 10:30am ● Our young people will prepare the message and participate in worship leadership. Any junior high or college student is invited to participate, even if he or she is not currently involved in youth groups. Please contact Rev. Chad Crawford if you would like to help.

Youth Lock-In

2011-05-01T13:34:00.001-07:00

May 14 to 15 ● There will be a youth “lock-in” for 6th to 12th graders from May 14 at 9pm to May 15 at 9am. We will be celebrating the end of the school year with movies, food, games, contests and prizes! Bring a friend! Please contact Rev. Chad Crawford to RSVP, and we’ll let you know what to bring.

Bible Presentation

2011-04-04T20:55:00.002-07:00

Sunday, May 22 ● Bibles will be presented to graduating 5th and 12th graders. To ensure that your son or daughter is included, please call or email Jennifer (685-4720, jennifer.standrews@gmail.com) with your child’s name and grade. Thank you!

Graduates

2011-04-04T20:55:00.001-07:00

If you have a child, grandchild or spouse that is graduating from high school or college this spring, please call or email Jennifer at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com so that they are included in our special list of graduates in June. Please include the student’s name, name of school, degrees earned, and any future plans for education or career. Deadline for submissions is May 15.

Fiesta!

2011-03-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

Sunday, March 13 at 5pm ● St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church is excited to announce a special celebration on March 13. We're raising funds for our mission trip to the Menaul school this summer in Albuquerque, NM, and you're invited to a fiesta! We're going to get out the maracas, hang a piñata, and prepare a traditional Mexican food feast. Wait, there's more! The youth are working on a skit to entertain you while you dine on burritos! Tickets are $10 for individuals and $25 for families, and can be purchased at a table outside the sanctuary before and after worship services beginning in late February. Hope to see you there!

VBS Bake Sale

2011-03-10T09:21:00.001-08:00

Sunday, April 10 ● Please help support our Vacation Bible School program by donating to our VBS bake sale fundraiser. All proceeds will go to help fund scholarships for children of St. Andrew’s and the community-at-large who normally could not afford to attend VBS. Last year, we raised over $260! We hope to see you on April 10 after each worship service, where we will have cookies, cupcakes and other goodies available for a freewill donation. (If you’d like to donate goodies for the sale, please contact Jennifer at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.)

Children's Ministry Sunday

2011-03-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

Sunday, April 10 ● We will be celebrating the children and children’s ministries of St. Andrew’s in both services on April 10. There will be a short drama, singing and bell ringing. Please join us on this special day!

Children's Easter Celebration

2011-02-10T11:56:00.000-08:00

Please mark your calendars now for our Children’s Easter Celebration on Saturday, April 23 at 10am. This is a fun annual celebration featuring crafts, songs, a possible skit, and of course, the ever-popular Easter egg hunt!

We will need volunteers to make this event a success. If you are a Kids Kingdom parent who hasn’t been able to volunteer on Wednesdays, this event certainly qualifies for your time commitment to our children’s ministries. Parents, grandparents or mature youth are welcome to…

• Sign in kids and welcome families as they arrive.
• Lead a simple Easter butterfly and/or cross craft project.
• Provide healthy refreshments and make coffee.
• Coordinate the hiding of the eggs.

If you are able to give your time for any of the above, please contact Jennifer at (925) 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com. Thanks in advance for the many ways that you participate in and support our children’s programs!

Mark Your Calendars Now!

2011-01-04T09:10:00.000-08:00

With the start of a new year comes a new calendar to fill up with activities! We hope you will join us for the following events:

Kids Kingdom Open Enrollment
Happening Now!

Children’s Ministry Sunday
Sunday, April 10

Last Day of Kids Kingdom
Wednesday, April 20

Children’s Easter Celebration & Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 23
10—11am

Youth Sunday & Bible Presentation
Sunday, May 22

Vacation Bible School
July 11-15
9am—12:30pm

Sunday School End of Summer Party
Sunday, August 28
9—10am

Trunk-or-Treat!
Wednesday, October 26
at 6:30pm

Sunday School Christmas Party
Sunday, December 18
10:30—11:30am

Westminster Woods Summer Camps
westminsterwoods.org

For Campers Ages 7 to 13:
June 26 to July 2
July 17 to July 23

For campers ages 9 to 18:
July 11 to 17
July 24 to 30

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2011-01-04T09:02:00.001-08:00

A huge thank you everyone who helped with the 2010 Christmas Pageant. Many thanks to our director, Danielle Mitchell, who superbly led our children in the play “Time Travelers,” as well as Rev. Wendy, Bret Peppo, Debbie Daniels, Sue Johnston, Victoria Naulleau, Mandy Novotny, Cathy Pickle and DiDi Sawin for their assistance.

Thanks also to DiDi Sawin for her help at our Sunday School Christmas Party on December 19, and to the Gourleys and Komori Stagers for providing yummy snacks. We had a lot of fun doing crafts, watching Christmas movies and singing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus!

I am so appreciative of our Sunday School and Kids Kingdom families for making children’s programs at St. Andrew’s possible. I hope you all were able to catch the spirit of Christmas at St. Andrew’s this holiday season, and that you all will enjoy a happy, healthy start to the New Year!

Peace and blessings in the new year,
Jennifer Cross Miller
Director of Children's Ministries

World Communion Sunday

2010-09-02T09:17:00.001-07:00

Sunday, October 3

Do you have clothing from around the world that you would be willing to wear and share for World Communion Sunday? Jennifer Cross Miller and Rev. Wendy are planning a special introduction to communion that would help visualize the global community gathering around the table. Children and adults are invited to participate – but please sign up and let us know your outfit and which service you can help at. Sign up or e-mail wendy.ks.standrews@gmail.com.

Join Us for Kids Kingdom

2010-09-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Starting September 15

All Kindergarten through 5th grade students are welcome to enroll in Kids Kingdom, our midweek program of Christian nurture, fellowship and education. Kids Kingdom runs on Wednesdays, September 15, 2010 to April 20, 2011 from 4:30 to 6:45pm. For questions or information about registration, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

"God & Church"

2010-09-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

Starting September 12 at 6:30pm

Starting this fall, Craig Mizutani will be leading the "God and Church" program for grades 6, 7 and 8. The program curriculum is designed…

* To strengthen young people’s relationship with Christ
* To challenge young people to learn about and participate in the worship and ministry of the church
* To have young people make a plan for daily Bible reading and memorize a creed or statement of belief or passage of scripture
* To provide the opportunity for young people to experience the joy of serving others

The class will be held Sunday evenings after junior high youth group from 6:30-7:30. This program is open to middle school students of the church. This program is recognized by the Boy Scouts of America for the youth religious emblem. Please contact Craig with any questions regarding schedule, supplies and requirements.

Youth News - May 2010

2010-05-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

Youth Sunday
Sunday, May 16 at 9am and 10:30am ● Our young people will prepare the message and participate in worship leadership. Any junior high or college student is invited to participate, even if he or she is not currently involved in youth groups. Please contact Rev. Wendy if you would like to help.

Teens & Technology
Wednesdays, May 19 & May 26 at 7pm ● Please join us for this discussion on teenagers and their use of various technologies (cell phones, computers, texting, Facebook) with family therapist Dr. Marc Komori Stager and Pleasant Hill police officer Kelli Geis. Learn what’s good, what’s bad, what’s criminal, and what to do about it.

Graduates

2010-03-25T09:18:00.001-07:00

If you have a child, grandchild or spouse that is graduating from high school or college this spring, please call or email Jennifer at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com so that they are included in our special list of graduates in June and July. Please include the student’s name, name of school, degrees earned, and any future plans for education or career. Deadline for submissions is May 15.

Bible Presentation

2010-03-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 16 ● Bibles will be presented to graduating 5th and 12th graders on Youth Sunday, May 16. To ensure that your son or daughter is included, please call or email Jennifer (685-4720, jennifer.standrews@gmail.com) with your child’s name and grade. Thank you!

Children's Ministry Sunday

2010-03-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

Sunday, April 25 ● Children in Pre-K through 5th grade are invited to take part in our Children's Ministry Sunday, which celebrates our children and children's programs. There will be singing, bells, reading and worship led by our kids. Parents, if your child is interested in taking part, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

Youth Group ~ April 2010

2010-03-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

6th—8th Grade
Sundays ● 5:00 to 6:30pm

9th—12th Grade
Sundays ● 6:00 to 7:30pm

April 4
No Youth Group
Happy Easter!

April 11
Topic TBA

April 18
Topic TBA

April 25
Topic TBA

Tiffany Crain
Youth Director
crain100@gmail.com

Kids Kingdom ~ April 2010

2010-03-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

K—5th Grade Midweek Program
Wednesdays ~ 4:30 to 6:45pm

April 7
No Kids Kingdom
Happy Spring Break!

April 14
Children's Ministry Prep

April 21
The Last Kids Kingdom!
Birthday Night & Graduation

Sunday School ~ April 2010

2010-03-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Godly Play: (Pre-K - 5th Grade) - 9am & 10:30am

April 4.....In Worship
April 11.....The Story of Sarah
April 18.....Jesus and the Twelve
April 25.....Children's Ministry Sunday

Living the Good News: (6th - 12th Grade) - 9am

April 4.....In Worship
April 11.....Belief in Jesus
April 18.....Christ's Abiding Presence
April 25.....Children's Ministry Sunday

Jennifer Cross Miller
Director of Children's Ministries
jennifer.standrews@gmail.com

Want to Help? Please contribute to the vital ministry of teaching our children by volunteering today! We offer training and support.

Children's Easter Celebration

2010-03-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Saturday, April 3 at 10am

Children of all ages are invited to our annual Easter Celebration on the Saturday before Easter. Fun crafts, a skit and sidewalk chalk art will be followed by an egg hunt in the backyard. Invite your friends, neighbors, grandkids and cousins to join us! Our littlest ones will have a chance to hunt eggs first. We hope to see you there! Youth, we need your help to hide the eggs on the day of the egg hunt. Contact Jennifer at 685-4720 to volunteer.

WE NEED EGGS!
If you would like to donate to this fun event, please bring filled plastic Easter eggs (preferably taped shut) to the church by Wednesday, March 31.

Sunday School ~ March 2010

2010-03-04T09:43:00.000-08:00

Godly Play: (Pre-K - 5th Grade) - 9am & 10:30am

March 7.....In Worship
March 14.....Faces of Easter IV
March 21.....Faces of Easter V
March 28.....Faces of Easter VI

Living the Good News: (6th - 12th Grade) - 9am

March 7.....In Worship
March 14.....Safety in God’s Arms
March 21.....Freedom from Condemnation
March 28.....Holy Week Journey

Jennifer Cross Miller
Director of Children's Ministries
jennifer.standrews@gmail.com

Want to Help? Please contribute to the vital ministry of teaching our children by volunteering today! We offer training and support.

Kids Kingdom ~ March 2010

2010-03-04T09:42:00.000-08:00

K—5th Grade Midweek Program
Wednesdays ~ 4:30 to 6:45pm

March 3
Camping Out

March 10
Home on the Range

March 17
St. Patrick’s Day

March 24
What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?

March 31
Disco Night

Observing Lent with Your Children

2010-02-09T09:35:00.000-08:00

The Christian season of Lent is the time leading up to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, starting on Ash Wednesday. For some people, Lent may be viewed as a somber time marked by fasting (or even deprivation), and they may choose not to observe this season of Lent, and instead look forward to joy of Easter.

However, Lent can be a wonderful time of prayer and introspection, and is particularly well-suited for teaching children about this important, holy season, as well as about the life of Jesus. Lent doesn’t have to be just about giving up something. As a family, you may choose this time to add something special and meaningful to your lives. The following are some ideas for new family traditions, especially well-suited to be practiced during Lent.

Read the Bible Together: Make a promise with your family to read from a children’s bible each day of Lent. Whether you start at the beginning, or simply focus on New Testament stories of Jesus’ life, you are giving your whole family the gift of Scripture and learning together.

Give Thanks Together: Every day during Lent, make a point of having everyone in your family express their thanks to God out loud. Mealtime is an ideal time for this by giving thanks through saying grace. Or, you may start a gratitude journal with your family. In a blank book or journal, have everyone write down a single thing they are grateful for each day of Lent. The blessings quickly add up, plus you’ll have a beautiful family memento to treasure.

Exercise Together: Many children AND adults don’t get the 60 minutes of physical activity recommended for optimum health, so consider adding exercise to your family schedule as a Lenten promise. Walking, biking, playing basketball or soccer, Wii Fit, jump roping, yoga, swimming, taekwondo—there are so many ways to incorporate FUN activity into your family life that have tremendous health benefits as well.

Giving Back Together: Giving to charity or to one’s community is a wonderful Lenten activity. 1) If your children receive an allowance, you may encourage them to earn money for charity by doing extra chores or other helpful activities. 2) There are “Gifts of the Heart” kits (www.pcusa.org/pda/help/goh.htm) that can be made for people around the world, including Haitians, and would be a fun and easy mission project for the whole family. 3) Start a “2 Cents a Meal” offering by decorating a coin bank or basket for the dining table, and having each member of the family put in 2 pennies for every meal they eat during Lent. The 2 Cents offering is accepted the third Sunday of every month at church and is given to local food banks.

However you and your family may choose to observe this upcoming Lent season, I pray that this time is a blessing to you and your children, and that your family feels the love and grace of God every day.

St. Andrew’s Ash Wednesday service takes place on Wednesday, February 17 from 7 to 7:30pm. Please join us for music, prayer, ashes and a blessing.

Kids Kingdom ~ February 2010

2010-02-09T09:34:00.000-08:00

K—5th Grade Midweek Program
Wednesdays ~ 4:30 to 6:45pm

February 3
thgiN sdrawkcaB

February 10
Valentines

February 17
Ash Wednesday

February 24
Chinese New Year
Year of the Tiger

Sunday School ~ February 2010

2010-02-09T09:32:00.000-08:00

Godly Play: (Pre-K - 5th Grade) - 9am & 10:30am

February 7.....In Worship for Communion
February 14.....The Parable of the Sower
February 21.....The Mystery of Easter
February 28.....Faces of Easter II

Living the Good News: (6th - 12th Grade) - 9am

February 7.....In Worship for Communion
February 14.....Revelation of Glory
February 21.....Strength for Temptation
February 28.....The Presence of God

Want to Help? Please contribute to the vital ministry of teaching our children by volunteering today! We offer training and support.

Youth Group ~ January 2010

2010-01-03T14:36:00.000-08:00

6th—12th Grade
Wednesdays ● 6:45 to 7:45pm

January 6 -- Topic TBA

January 13 -- Topic TBA

January 20 -- Topic TBA

January 27 -- Topic TBA

If you’d like to come to dinner before group (only $3!), please RSVP to jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

We are searching for a new Youth Director. For the time being, staff members and parents of our youth are keeping the Wednesday activities moving along with fun games and interesting topics for discussion.

If you have any questions about youth group, please contact Shel White at 685-4720.

Kids Kingdom ~ January 2010

2010-01-03T14:35:00.000-08:00

K—5th Grade Midweek Program

Wednesdays ● 4:30 to 6:45pm

January 6
Happy New Year!

January 13
Dr. Seuss Night

January 20
Wacky Hair Night

January 27
Fiesta Night

Jennifer Cross Miller
Director of Children's Ministries
jennifer.standrews@gmail.com

Sunday School ~ January 2010

2010-01-03T14:34:00.000-08:00

Godly Play
(Pre-K - 5th Grade) - 9am & 10:30am

January 10 -- Holy Baptism
January 17 -- The Good Shepherd
January 24 -- The Good Samaritan
January 31 -- The Great Pearl

Living the Good News
(6th - 12th Grade) - 9am

January 10 -- The Baptism of Jesus
January 17 -- The Glory of Jesus
January 24 -- The Body of Christ
January 31 -- Jesus the Teacher

Jennifer Cross Miller
Director of Children's Ministries
jennifer.standrews@gmail.com

Godly Play Training

2009-12-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday, January 3 and Sunday, January 10 from 5:30 to 8:30pm

St. Andrew’s has a wonderful opportunity to offer Godly Play training here at our own church! If you have been interested in knowing more about this program, please plan to attend.
All attendees are requested to be at both sessions as they are really one training just broken up into two parts to fit our busy schedules. The first session will be experiencing Godly play, exploring the room and the spirituality of the child. The second session will go into details about the role of the storyteller and the role of the doorperson. We will also do some hands-on play with the stories.
Godly Play training can be a very special, spiritual experience, and we hope you can attend. Please sign up in Crothers Hall. If you have any questions about what to expect from training, please see Jennifer Cross Miller or Wendy Komori Stager.

Youth Group ~ December 2009

2009-11-19T21:24:00.000-08:00

6th—12th Grade
Wednesdays ● 6:45 to 7:45pm

December 2
Topic TBA

December 9
Topic TBA

December 16
Topic TBA

December 23 & 30
No Youth Group
We’ll be back on January 6

If you’d like to come to dinner before group (only $3!), please RSVP to jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

We are once again searching for a new Youth Director. For the time being, the parents of our youth are keeping the Wednesday activities moving along with fun games and interesting topics for discussion.

We are forming a Youth Director Search Committee which so far includes Michael Holsinger, Sam Brewer, Bryce Bartolo, Nick Motola, Alison Armand, Colleen Holsinger, Barry Hightower, Jen Miller, Wendy Komori Stager and Shel White.

We hope to have a new Youth Director in January.

The Westminster Woods retreat for high school students is still on for December 4-6. Please register online at WestminsterWoods.org and let us know if you need any scholarship assistance—we can offset your cost by $40 if needed. We also have some scholarship funds to help more, so NO youth should not go because of the cost. Contact Shel White or Wendy Komori Stager for more information.

Sunday School ~ December 2009

2009-11-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

Godly Play
(Pre-K - 5th Grade) - 9am & 10:30am

December 6.........Advent II
December 13.......Advent III
December 20......Advent IV
December 27.......The Mystery of Christmas

Living the Good News
(6th - 12th Grade) - 9am

December 6.........In Worship for Holy Communion
December 13.......The Good News
December 20.......The Coming of the Messiah
December 27.......Jesus’ Family

Sunday School Christmas Party

2009-11-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 20 from 12 to 3pm

All Pre-K through 5th grade kids are invited to our first annual Sunday School Christmas Party! Parents, enjoy some time to yourselves or get in some last-minute Christmas shopping, and drop your kids off at St. Andrew’s for crafts, cookies and Christmas movies. The cost is only $5 per child. Please RSVP by signing up in Crothers Hall or contacting Jennifer Cross Miller, jennifer.standrews@gmail.com

Children's Christmas Pageant

2009-11-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 13 at 7pm

"Good evening, Angels. Are you ready for your next assignment?" We invite ALL members and friends of St. Andrew’s to join us for our annual Christmas pageant. This year’s program is “God’s Angels,” a fun, 70’s-inspired retelling of the classic story. Please invite your friends and neighbors and join the fun!

The Storyteller ~ November 22

2009-11-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

The Ark & the Temple
Focus: A House for God
1 Kings 5-8; 2 Chronicles 2-8

The People of God came into the promised land. David and the People of God began to live in Jerusalem, but something was missing. It was the ark. David and his army went to get the ark.

When they brought the ark in through the great high gate, King David danced before it. They set up the tent of meeting and put the ark inside.

David was not allowed to build a house for God, because he was a man of war. His son Solomon would build the temple. The temple began to grow, and people were amazed. There was a great hall for people to come close to God, and an inner room, called the Holy of Holies, which was for the ark. The High Priest entered only on the Day of Atonement, the holiest day of the year. The temple was beautiful, with carvings of olive wood and gold.

Inside the temple were the same things that helped them get ready to meet God when they were in the desert. The ark was carried inside by the priests. Here is the incense burner. Fragrant smoke filled the temple as the incense burned. Here is the table with the bread for each of the twelve tribes on it. And finally, here is the menorah with its seven branches and lamps burning.

On the day the priests first carried the ark inside, a great cloud of dazzling light filled the temple. God was there.

The Storyteller ~ November 15

2009-11-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

The Ark & the Tent
Focus: God’s Presence in the Tabernacle
Exodus 25-31, 35-40

When God gave the people the Ten Best Ways to live, they loved them so much that they wanted to have them always with them. God told them to build a box called an ark to keep them in and to cover the ark with gold. It had poles on the sides, so the people could always carry it with them wherever they went.

But you can’t just walk up something so precious as the Ten Commandments. You need some way to get ready.

To help them get ready, the people placed an altar of incense which made a good-smelling cloud of smoke, a table with twelve pieces of bread and a seven-branched menorah. Then they put the ark in a special room, the Holy of Holies, and built a tent around it. In front of the tent, there was an altar for sacrifices and a bronze bowl for washing to get ready for prayer. Then, around the whole tent, they put a fence made of cloth. It marked the whole, special area called the tabernacle.

When all of the tabernacle was finished, Moses blessed it. Aaron and all of his sons were made the priests, and they took the tent and the ark wherever the People of God traveled.

The Storyteller ~ October 25

2009-10-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

The Exodus
Focus: Passover of God’s People
Exodus 11:1—15:21

The People of God were living in a place where the rains did not come. The crops had no water, so they could not grow. There was no grain to grind to make bread. Everyone was hungry. The children cried in their sleep. So their mothers and fathers decided to go to a new land where there was food. They had to go even if it was across the desert. Their journey began.

It was hard in the desert, but they kept going toward the land called Egypt.

When the people came into the land of Egypt, they found food and work, but the Pharaoh trapped them. They could not go home again.

They were slaves.

In this story, we follow the People of God into Egypt and learn how their leader, Moses, convinced the Pharaoh to let his people go, but only after ten terrible plagues afflicted the land. They escaped through the miraculous parting of the water into freedom at last.

God was with the People as they “went out” (the literal meaning of exodus) from slavery into freedom through the water. The People of God have looked back to this time to sustain them when God is hidden and they feel lost. For the Jews, especially, the Feast of Passover keeps alive this core event. For Christians, holy Baptism reawakens this event.

The Storyteller ~ October 18

2009-10-15T10:08:00.001-07:00

The Great Family
Focus: God With the People of God
Genesis 12—15, 24

One night God brought Abram outside. He looked up into the sky. God came so close to Abram, and Abram came so close to God, that Abram knew what God was saying. “You will become the father of a great family, and Sarai will be the mother. The members of the great family will be as many as there are stars in the sky and grains of sand in the desert.”

Abram laughed. He and Sarai were very old. God’s promise sounded impossible, but God said to change their names anyway. Abram was to be Abraham, and Sarai was to be called Sarah.
So begins the story of the Great Family, the story of the People of God, the Israelites. Their story begins in the desert, at the edge of the unknown. As we follow the people of God, we find that the desert is a dangerous place, but it is also a place full of wonder and mystery and faith.

It is our story too. We too are the People of God. We are part of that great family that has become as many as the stars in the sky and the grains of sand in the desert.

Trunk-or-Treat!

2009-10-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

Halloween is creeeeping up on us, and that means that it’s almost time for Trunk-or-Treat! All ghouls, ghosts, and candy-seekers of ALL ages are invited to wear their scariest, wackiest or silliest costumes on Wednesday, October 28. A costume parade will start at 6:30, which will be led around the parking lot to collect goodies from obliging trunks. Adults, that’s where you come in! Bring your car and pass out candy to our trunk-or-treaters! The more trunks, the merrier!

If you have questions, contact Jennifer at jennifer.standrews@gmail.com or 685-4720. Invite your friends and neighbors! Kids of all ages (babies and up!) are invited!

The Storyteller ~ September 20

2009-09-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

Godly Play ~ 9am & 10:30am

Second Creation
Focus: “The Falling Apart” and Coming Back Together in a New Way
Genesis 2:4—3:24

There are two accounts of creation in Genesis. The first creation story told of how God created everything from nothing and of the great gifts that He gave to us.

The second creation story begins with Adam-Eve: Adam, who was everyone, and Eve, who came from Adam. She and Adam were always together. They were Adam-Eve.

“Adam-Eve ate from the tree of differences and things fell apart for them. They became Adam and Eve. The difference between them and God also came apart. And the difference between good and evil did too.”

We learn in this story how they “fell apart” from God, from each other, from God’s creation, and from the image of God in their deep selves. But there is always hope. We also learn how these relationships were restored.

“Adam and Eve could not go back to when everything was all together in the Garden. They could only go forward and they did.”

The Storyteller ~ September 13

2009-09-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

Godly Play ~ 9am & 10:30am

Creation

As we kick off another year of Sunday School at St. Andrew’s, we start, as always, at the beginning.

In the beginning, there wasn’t very much. In fact, there was nothing at all. Nothing...except for God, who wanted to give us the biggest gifts of all. In seven days, He gave us the whole of creation:

· Light & Darkness
· Water & Air
· Dry Land & Green, Growing Things
· Night and Day, Moon and Sun, and a Way to Count Our Time
· Creatures that Fly & Creatures that Swim in the Sea
· Creatures that Live on Land
· And Finally, a Day for Rest & Remembrance

I wonder which day you like best?

I wonder which day is most important?

I wonder if we could take out a day, but still have all the days we need?

I wonder which day YOU are in?

Got Kids Under 10? Please Join Us for a Barbecue!

2009-08-27T10:47:00.001-07:00

All families with kids under 10 are invited to join us on Saturday, September 26 at 4pm, for an informal barbeque potluck. Please bring a salad or dessert to share. The kids can play and adults can chat. Hope to see you there!

Godly Play Orientation for Parents

2009-08-27T10:46:00.001-07:00

Please join me, Jennifer Cross Miller, for a Godly Play orientation Sunday, August 30 at 9am. This is a great opportunity to see firsthand what your children will be experiencing each week at Sunday School this fall, and to ask any questions that you may have. When the children are dismissed from church for Sunday School that morning, the kids will head to the backyard for free play, and you, the parents, will take their place in the story circle in Room 3, our Godly Play classroom. I hope to see you there!

Wednesday Line-Up at St. Andrew’s

2009-08-27T10:45:00.001-07:00

Kids Kingdom is Coming!

2009-07-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Kids Kingdom is a mid-week program of Christian nurture for children in kindergarten through 5th grade.

Every Wednesday afternoon during the regular school year, children will participate in recreation and crafts, bible study, worship skills (including music) and family time. Here they will learn what it means to be a child of God. They will also build relationships with other children and adults that we hope will stay with them for the rest of their lives. This is more than a teaching program. This is a system of Christian nurture designed to give our children the tools and confidence they need to survive in our world today.

Kids Kingdom runs September 16, 2009 through March 31, 2010 from 4:30 to 6:45pm. Register today by contacting Jennifer Cross Miller at 685-4720 at jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

VBS: What a Wonderful Week!

2009-07-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

Our many thanks to all the children, parents, youth and adult volunteers that helped to make Vacation Bible School's "Discovery Canyon" such a fun, educational and creative week for St. Andrew's!

Please check out photos of the week's festivities below!

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Thanks to all of our fantastic volunteers and helpers!

Youth: Rachel Rios, Ryan Alkire, Michael Holsinger, Ellen Limpin, Lizzie Stanton, Brandon Clement, Andrew James, Thomas James, Rebecca Thorne, Emily Adamson, Katrina Galloway, Courtney Ashoo, Anna Arbogast, Brad Thompson, Petra Arevalo, Matt Cousin, Emily Bedolla, Cameron Stelchek & Felicia Huddleston

Adults: Elaine Rios, Jennifer Cross, Miller, John Grant, Maureen Clement, Kim James, Peggy Luna, Courtney Mizutani, Michelle Ammon, Michelle Smith, Colleen Holsinger, Bob Holsinger, Brenna Shafizadeh, Karen Abramson, Shel White & Wendy Komori Stager

Sundae Sundays!

2009-07-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

Join us on July 12 and August 16 between services (10 to 10:30am) for our annual Sundae Sundays! Enjoy yummy ice cream with all the fixin’s and mingle with your St. Andrew’s family. Hope to see you there!

Barbecue for Families with Young Children

2009-07-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

St. Andrew’s is blessed with an increase in families with younger children. Many of these parents and children do not yet know each other. Therefore, on Saturday, July 11 at 4pm, we are having an informal barbeque potluck. Please bring a salad or dessert to share. The kids can play and adults can chat. Please sign up in Crothers Hall or email sandy.standrews@gmail.com.

We are also organizing “Dinner with Friends” groups. These groups are made up of three or four families that meet once a month at homes for 5 or 6 dinners. You may sign up for these groups in Crothers Hall or at the barbeque.

Youth Groups - May

2009-04-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Junior High (6th-8th Grade) -- "Salt & Light" -- Wednesdays, 6:30-8pm
High School (9th-12th Grade) -- "Fellowship of the Carpenter" -- Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm

May 6: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - Youth Sunday Prep with Rev. Wendy

May 13: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - Youth Sunday Prep with Rev. Wendy

May 17: 9am and 10:30am -- Youth Sunday!

May 20: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - Bowling

May 27: Regular Meeting

For more information, please contact our youth director, Charlene Marshall (charmar824@yahoo.com).

Vacation Bible School

2009-04-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church invites you and your friends to Vacation Bible School!

July 6-10, 2009

9am to 12:30pm

Discovery Canyon: Explore the wonders of the world

"I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart

and tell about the wonders you have worked." (Psalm 9:1)

Discovery Canyon brings kids full circle with amazing activities, lasting friendships and Bible adventures. Each day kids will explore the Word, make Bible connections, and collect critter friends - each carefully linked to the Bible verse and daily story.

Your amazing Discovery Canyon begins and ends each day with an opening celebration and a closing celebration. During the opening celebration everyone learns the daily theme, Bible story and Bible Memory Verse. There's toe-tappin' music to get the day going and help everyone remember the good news, too!

For more information or to register, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at (925) 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

Attention Grandparents!

2009-04-02T11:01:00.002-07:00

Consider inviting your grandchildren to attend Christian summer camp with you! Westminster Woods’ Grandparent-Grandchild Camp will be Wednesday, August 5 to Saturday, August 8. Shel and Beverly White will be the speakers for this session. This is an ideal opportunity for grandparents to share time with grandchildren, creating rich memories that will surely last a lifetime. Crackling campfires, inspiring Bible stories and stimulating nature walks through the redwoods are just the thing to help youngsters build a strong relationship with Christ, their grandparents, and God’s creation. We’ve got the meals and activities covered — you get to simply relax and enjoy your grandkids. For Grandchildren entering Kindergarten through 4th grade and their grandparents. For more details and registration go to www.westminsterwoods.org.

Graduates

2009-04-02T11:01:00.001-07:00

If you have a child, grandchild or spouse that is graduating from high school or college this spring, please call or email Jennifer at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com so that they are included in our special list of graduates in June and July. Please include the student’s name, name of school, degrees earned, and any future plans for education or career. Deadline for submissions is June 1.

Bible Presentation

2009-04-02T11:00:00.001-07:00

Bibles will be presented to graduating 5th and 12th graders on Sunday, May 17. To ensure that your son or daughter is included, please call or email Jennifer (685-4720, jennifer.standrews@gmail.com) with your child’s name and grade. Thank you!

Youth Groups - April

2009-04-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Junior High (6th-8th Grade) -- "Salt & Light" -- Wednesdays, 6:30-8pm
High School (9th-12th Grade) -- "Fellowship of the Carpenter" -- Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm

April 1: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - Movie Night
April 5: Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser for Mission Trip - 8am to Noon
April 8: Combined Meeting - 6 to 9pm - Capture the Flag
April 11: Easter Egg Hunt - 10 to 11am - Youth help hide eggs.
April 15: Spring Break - No Youth Group!
April 19: Walk the Golden Gate Bridge - 12 to 5pm
April 22: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - The Body of Christ
April 29: Combined Meeting - 6 to 8pm - Youth Sunday Prep with Rev. Wendy

For more information, please contact our youth director, Charlene Marshall (charmar824@yahoo.com).

Save the Date for VBS!

2009-03-12T11:04:00.003-07:00

July 6 to 10, 2009 ~ 9am to 12:30pm

"Discovery Canyon"

Contact Jennifer Cross Miller or Elaine Rios for more information.

Children's Ministry Sunday

2009-03-12T11:04:00.001-07:00

Children in Pre-K through 5th grade are invited to take part in our Children's Ministry Sunday on April 26, which celebrates our children and children's programs. There will be singing, bells, reading and worship led by our kids, and a storytelling message from Godly Play. Parents, if your child is interested in taking part, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com.

Children's Easter Celebration

2009-03-12T11:03:00.002-07:00

Children of all ages are invited to our annual Easter Celebration on Saturday, April 11 from 10 to 11am. Fun crafts, a skit and sidewalk chalk art will be followed by an egg hunt in the backyard. Invite your friends, neighbors, grandkids and cousins to join us! Our littlest ones will have a chance to hunt eggs first. We hope to see you there! Youth, we need your help to hide the eggs on the day of the egg hunt. Contact Jennifer at 685-4720 to volunteer.

We Need Eggs!

2009-03-12T11:03:00.001-07:00

It's almost Easter, and that means we need eggs for our egg hunt! If you would like to donate to this fun event, please bring filled plastic Easter eggs (preferably taped shut) to the church by Wednesday, April 8.

Westminster Woods Summer Camps

2009-02-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

Being a kid can be tough. Our young people experience intense pressure to grow up and to achieve, accompanied by a relentless stream of messages designed to influence their thoughts and actions. This often leaves kids feeling drained and isolated.

Westminster Woods in Occidental, CA welcomes campers into a world free from the pressures of their daily lives - a community where kids of all ages are allowed to grow into their own sense of self, to feel God’s love in their life, and gain renewed trust in Christ.

A week at The Woods:

Brings campers into close contact with the natural world.
Helps young people to develop lasting, meaningful relationships, with peers, counselors, and mentors.
Provides a safe place for campers to express themselves in the context of an accepting, supportive Christian community
Connects young people with others who exhibit and affirm the value of living a life of faith in a complex world.
With greater confidence in their abilities and renewed trust in Jesus Christ, campers return home from The Woods prepared to continue practicing faith in their daily lives.

Go to www.westminsterwoods.org for dates and rates. There is also a sign up sheet in Crothers hall for interested campers and to set up car pools.

NEW - in August, Westminster Woods offers a special Grandparent and Grandchild camp for children K-4 to attend with a grandmother or grandfather This is an excellent way to share fun and faith with a grandchild.

Youth Groups - March

2009-02-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

Junior High (6th-8th Grade) -- "Salt & Light" -- Wednesdays, 6:30-8pm
High School (9th-12th Grade) -- "Fellowship of the Carpenter" -- Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm

March 4: Regular Meeting
March 8: Youth Mission Trip Information Meeting, 11:45am-12:15pm
March 11: Regular Meeting
March 18: Regular Meeting

For more information, please contact our youth director, Charlene Marshall (charmar824@yahoo.com).

Kids Kingdom - March

2009-02-26T10:44:00.000-08:00

Join us on Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6:45pm, for our fun midweek program for K-5! This month's themes are:

March 4 - Inventor/Scientist Night
March 11 - Camping Out
March 18 - St. Patrick
March 25 - What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?

Contact Jennifer at (925) 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com for more information.

Youth Mission Work Trip to Mexico

2009-02-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

August 8-15, 2009 for High School and College Students: We are working closely with a Presbyterian Missionary, Bill Soldwisch, to bring a group of youth from our church to the Dios Es Amor Church. St. Andrew’s church has been building relationships (and structures) with this church since it began in 1999.
If you are a HS student or college-aged young adult, you are invited to prayerfully consider this opportunity to serve our brothers and sisters across the border. This is not time to vacation, but to do something that makes a difference in the lives of the poor. The mission trip is a time of giving oneself in service, but also a way to learn from our Mexican brothers and sisters.
Please plan on attending the initial planning meeting on Sunday, March 8 at 11:45am in the youth room. We will discuss some early plans for transportation, cost and leadership. Also, we hope to get an early idea of the interest and commitment level in the trip. If you cannot attend the meeting, but are still interested in the mission, please contact Rev. Wendy Komori Stager or Charlene Marshall.

Recognition of Our Boy Scouts

2009-02-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in our congregation were recognized on Sunday, February 8 for fulfilling the God and Country requirements for their age group. These boys worked diligently for several months this past fall to complete the requirements. The God and Country program is a religious emblems program created by the national church bodies cooperating with P.R.A.Y. (Programs of Religious Activities for Youth). It consists of four different programs based on grade level. God and Me (grades 1-3), God and Family (grades 4-5), God and Church (grade 6-8), and God and Life (grades 9-12).

The God and Me program is designed to help children become best friends with Jesus as they tell their story of God and Me together. The God and Family program is designed to help youth understand the importance of family and God's role in a healthy family. The God and Church program leads young people on a faith journey with three parts: meeting Jesus, worshiping God, and witnessing and ministering for Christ. The God and Life curriculum is based on the life of the Apostle Paul as recorded in Acts 9:1-31.

On Sunday, February 8, we recognized the following Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts:

God and Me: Timmy Grabow and Sean Mitchell
God and Family: Oliver Armand, Kyle Carpenter, Alex Pinder
God and Church: Brandon Clement, Matthew Cousin, Alexander Henderson, James Mizutani, Harrison Motola, Nick Motola

The various levels of the God and Country program are taught periodically, depending on demand. The next classes are scheduled for the fall of 2010 (God and Church) and the fall of 2011 (God and Life). Please contact Courtney Mizutani for additional information.

"On My Honor...To Serve God..."

2009-02-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

Girl Scout Sunday will be celebrated at St. Andrew's Church on Sunday, March 8. If any member of your family is involved in Girl Scouts or has been in the past and would like to participate in any way for one or both services - I would love to include them! Please contact Maureen Clement to participate or if you have any questions: clement_maureen@hotmail.com or 925-825-9529.

Youth Groups - February

2009-02-05T10:18:00.001-08:00

Junior High (6th-8th Grade) -- "Salt & Light" -- Wednesdays, 6:30-8pm
High School (9th-12th Grade) -- "Fellowship of the Carpenter" -- Wednesdays, 7:30-9pm

February 4: Regular Meeting
February 6-8: Youth Interfaith Experience Weekend
February 11: Regular Meeting
February 18: Regular Meeting
February 25: Regular Meeting
February 27 - March 1: Snow Trip!

For more information, please contact our youth directors, David TenBrook (dntenbrook@gmail.com) and Charlene Marshall (charmar824@yahoo.com).

Kids Kingdom - February

2009-02-05T10:14:00.000-08:00

Join us on Wednesdays, 4:30 to 6:45pm, for our fun midweek program for K-5! This month's themes are:

February 4 - Pirates
February 11 - Valentines
February 18 - Noah's Ark
February 25 - Ash Wednesday

Contact Jennifer at (925) 685-4720 or jennifer.standrews@gmail.com for more information.

A Scout is Reverent!

2009-01-09T08:40:00.001-08:00

Boy Scout Sunday will be celebrated at St. Andrew’s on February 8, 2009. In its 99th year, the Boy Scouts of America will be honoring the 12th point of the Scout Law on its official BSA date. If any member of your family is involved in Cub Scouts or Boy Scouts. I would love for them to participate. Families that have a daughter who is involved in a Venturing Crew are part of the BSA and are welcome. All Scouts and Scouters must be in full dress uniform (aka Class A). An invitation has also been sent to our sponsored Boy Scout Troop 239. Please contact Alan Clement to participate or if you have any questions: alanc3707@yahoo.com or (925) 825-9529. Thank you in advance for your support of St. Andrew’s and the Boy Scouts of America!

Kids Kingdom Open Enrollment

2008-12-19T17:39:00.000-08:00

This January, Kids Kingdom invites your K-5 child to join us during a time of Open Enrollment! Kids Kingdom is a fun midweek program (led by parents and volunteers) on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:45pm in which elementary-aged children enjoy bible study, crafts and recreation, and music, all in a setting of spiritual nurture and fellowship. Between January 7 and April 8, our Kids Kingdom students will learn about Jesus and make lasting friendships with children and adults in our church. And through parent participation (only 1 to 1.5 hours a month!), you too could make some new friends and experience the warm fellowship that only KK can provide. The best part? It only costs $85 per child for the program and dinner fees through April (with scholarships available)! If you have any questions about this opportunity, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at jennifer.standrews@gmail.com, or Colleen Holsinger, our volunteer coordinator, at colleenholsinger@sbcglobal.net. We hope you will pray about this great opportunity for your child. Have a blessed Christmas and New Year, and we hope to see you in January!

Confirmation Class Begins in January

2008-12-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

We will be offering Confirmation Class for any students in the 9th to 12th grades who are interested in becoming members of the church. Interested students and their parents are invited to "Confirmation, Information and Preparation" at noon on Sunday, January 11. You will meet the teachers for Confirmation Class and learn about topics we'll be covering. Confirmation classes will be held starting Sunday, January 25 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. We will finish in May. Please contact Rev. Wendy at wendy.ks.standrews@gmail.com to receive an invitation letter and schedule.

January 11 ~ 12:00-1:30pm ~ Confirmation Information & Preparation

January 25 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Introduction to Confirmation

February 1 ~ 7:00-8:30pm ~ Taize Service

February 8 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Who is God?

February 15 ~ No Class

February 22 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Who is Jesus? Part I

February 25 ~ 7:00-8:00pm ~ Ash Wednesday Service

March 1 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Who is Jesus? Part II

March 8 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Who is the Holy Spirit?

March 15 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ What is the Church? Part I

March 22 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ What is the Church? Part II

March 29 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ What is the Church? Part III

April 5 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ My Relationship with God

April 12 ~ No Class

April 19 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Making God a Priority

April 26 ~ 10:30-11:30am ~ Living Out My Faith in the World

May 3 ~ 10:30am-1:00pm ~ Meet with Session/Lunch

May 10 ~ No Class

May 17 ~ 9:00-11:30am ~ Youth Sunday

Children's Christmas Pageant

2008-12-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Join us on Sunday, December 14 at 6:00pm for a fun retelling of the Christmas story, "Christmas All Around." We hope you all will join us for Christmas music, hymns sung by the congregation, and the retelling of the Story. Rehearsals are on December 7 and December 14 at 12pm.

New Program: Parents & Tots

2008-11-18T10:43:00.000-08:00

For children under 5 and their parent or caregiver. Join us for an informal fellowship and play time. Moms, dads and caregivers can connect with one another; sharing struggles, stories, questions and advice while your child plays with other boys or girls his or her age. The church has a wonderful toddler room that is safe and full of a variety of toys. If the weather is nice, the children can also play outside in an enclosed yard. We will have a short circle time with a book and a few songs, including "Jesus Loves Me." A few tots and moms are able to meet weekly on Friday mornings from 9:30 to 11am. Other tots and parents work during the week, so we'll have occasional meetings on Sunday afternoons, with the next one in January after the craziness of the holidays. Dads and siblings are welcome too. For more information, contact Rev. Wendy at wendy.ks.standrews@gmail.com.

Trunk-Or-Treat

2008-09-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

Halloween is creeeeping up on us, and that means that it’s almost time for Trunk-or-Treat! All ghouls, ghosts, and candy-seekers of ALL ages are invited to wear their scariest, wackiest or silliest costumes on Wednesday, October 29. A costume parade will start at 6:30, which will be led around the parking lot to collect goodies from obliging trunks. Adults, that’s where you come in! Bring your car and pass out candy to our trunk-or-treaters! The more trunks, the merrier!
If you have questions, contact Jennifer at 685-4720 or jenniferc@presbynet.org. Invite your friends and neighbors! Kids of all ages (babies and up!) are invited!

Wednesday Line-Up at St. Andrew's

2008-08-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

With Kid's Kingdom and Youth Groups back in September, Wednesdays at St. Andrew's offer several opportunities for study and fellowship for our children and youth. We hope you will join us! It all starts September 17!

Kid's Kingdom (K-5)
Bible Study, Crafts, Music
4:30 to 6:00pm

Youth Bell Choir (JH & HS)
"The Lord's Ringers"
5:30 to 6:15pm

Dinner for Kid's Kingdom & Youth
6:00 to 6:45pm

Youth Vocal Choir (JH & HS)
"Vocal Velocity"
6:45 to 7:15

"Salt & Light"
Junior High Youth Group
7:15 to 8:00

"Fellowship of the Carpenter"
High School Youth Group
8:00 to 9:00pm

High-schoolers that come early for dinner may do homework between dinner and 8pm.

For more information, please contact Jennifer (685-4720, jenniferc@presbynet.org) or Misty (872-9187, mistythompson@presbynet.org).

Children & Youth Programs Starting in the Fall

2008-08-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's back-to-school time already! With the start of school comes the start of the fall session for children's and youth Christian Education programs here at St. Andrew's.

Sunday School begins its fall session with Godly Play for PK-5 and Youth Sunday School for JH and HS students on Sunday, September 7. If you would like to help teach God's Word to our children, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at 685-4720 or jenniferc@presbynet.org, or sign up in Crothers Hall on the Sunday School clipboard. Sample lessons, curriculum info and/or possible training is available upon request.

Kid's Kingdom, our midweek program for K-5 students, offers bible study, fellowship, music and dinner on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:45pm from September 17 through April 8. For registration forms or more info, please contact Jennifer Cross Miller at (925) 685-4720 or mailto:jenniferc@presbynet.org

Youth Groups will also be back in the fall! Salt & Light (JH) will meet on Wednesdays, 7-8pm, and will follow the Logos model. Fellowship of the Carpenter (HS) will meet from 8-9pm and learn from the Student Life Bible Study.

We welcome newcomers to all children's and youth events, so feel free to invite your friends and neighbors. We wish you all a happy start to the fall school year!

God & Country Scouting Program

2008-08-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

-- God and Family (fourth and fifth graders)
-- God and Church (sixth-eighth graders)

Both classes are scheduled to start September 17. The 4/5 class will start at 3:45 and be done in time for the start of KK. The middle school program will start at 4:30. Classes will be held on the same calendar schedule as KK through December.

God and Country is the religious recognition program for many Protestant churches. Any child who satisfactorily completes the program is eligible to receive recognition. Many scouting programs use the God and Country program as a portion of the Duty to God component of their pledge. For additional information about the program, go to www.praypub.org.

Children commit to attend the class consistently and do "out of class" work to support "in class" work. We will be meeting with Pastor Shel in December.

Interested children’s parents should contact Courtney Mizutani at 671-0767 or by email at cmizutani@sbcglobal.net. Children do not need to attend this church to attend this program -- invite your friends! There will be a small fee associated with the class to cover materials (the workbook) and recognition materials (medals). I will need to know in advance who will be attending, so that sufficient workbooks will be available.

Vacation Bible School Was a Great Success!

2008-07-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

For five days in July, St. Andrew's was transformed into a rainforest for VBS' "Rainforest Adventure: A Treetop Bible Blast." Thirty-two children were enrolled in the program, including 15 who were new to St. Andrew's -- what a great community outreach! St. Andrew's would like to thank all of the volunteers who made the week possible, including, of course, Elaine Rios, the director and tireless organizer, teacher, emcee, and leader. We are so thankful for her and the other volunteers' dedication and hard work!

Adult Volunteers:
Karen Abramson
Kristi Bedolla
Maureen Clement
Marie Duncan
Jackie Lopey
Jennifer Cross Miller
Danielle Mitchell
Victoria Naulleau
Dick Newacheck
Linda Newacheck
Trisha Oldenkamp
Nancy Patten
Mary Schultz
Karen Victor
Wednesday Crew
Shel White

Youth Volunteers:
Ethan Armand
Emily Bedolla
Sam Brewer
Brandon Clement
Bobby Holsinger
Michael Holsinger
Andrew James
Jamie McPherson
Ross McPherson
James Mizutani
Lizzie Stanton
Cameron Stelchek
Brad Thompson

And thank you to the parents who brought their kids to VBS!