Prayers for Jenn and family

Jenn and Maiyson came down with some sore throats and chest congestion on Monday. Maiyson started a fever yesterday afternoon and has been known to convulse when she has one. Please pray that they would be healed very quickly and that McKensa would stay healthy. She has a very weak respiratory system and Jenn and Jarrod are concerned she may get sick. Please pray that God would put a hedge of protection over this house. Thanks church!

* Update from Jenn - Please continue to pray for our household! Its a sick one! (LOL~Seriously)

I am still very congested in the chest, and its hard to breath at times. Its such a dry cough that it hurts so bad to cough, and the cough just wont quit. Some of you may heard me lastnight, I sound like a frog is in my throat. (ribbit ribbit)

Maisyn has the same symptoms as me, but her cough is more broken up, she has has a fever on and off since the start of this, she did come down w/ another one last night, BUT THANK GOD it hasnt gotten high.

Mykenza hasnt had any symptoms as ours, but started to complain of a sore throat last night, PLEASE PRAY EXTRA HARD FOR HER! Her body cant fight these bugs like the rest of the family. When she gets chest colds, 90% of the time it turns into pnemonia. We have preventative steroid inhalers, which I have started her on so please pray she stays well.

Talor started the cold symptoms yesterday, runny nose, and a broken up cough. BUT lastnight she shocked us in the middle of the night w/ a HIGH temp, and vomitting! ewe.... poor Jarrod cleaned it all up for me, bless his heart!

Jarrod is still well! PLEASE PRAY FOR HIM to stay that way, we cant afford for him to miss work, and I really just dont want to see him get this awful bug, it hurts!

Thank you for your prayer thus far, PLEASE continue, we need them so desperately!!!!

I will keep you updated...

God Bless~ Jenn Read Full Post»

BABY JESUS PARTY THANK-YOU!!!

I just wanted to take a moment to THANK all the volunteers that took charge and helped plan and host the 1st annual "BABY JESUS BIRTHDAY PARTY" on Dec. 21st. This was a wonderful time and spiritual bonding for our children @ River. We are sorry if you missed this opportunity. We do plan to have the same people plan this event next year on about the same Sunday. So mark your NEW 2009 calendar early!lol. We had about 15 kids this year. We heard Mary read " The very first Christmas" by an heirloom nativity set. The children then played "tape the baby in the manger" with Dawn Jahn and Kay Defour. Two children won and recieved a gift. Amber Jacobs helped them glue a nativity picture together as a take-home craft and then we had a Birthday cake and some sausage and crackers & fellowship time. ALL got a party favor bag to take home and I've been told they enjoyed it and want to do this again next year. Special thanx to Dawn and Amber and Kay for pulling this together! If you have a desire to assist with this next year, please contact Mary H. 742-8284. Til then...Thanx for sharing your kids with us and MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Read Full Post»

New Year's Eve Party

Please join us for a River New Year's Eve Party.  December 31st at 6:00 at River of Life Church.  Bring a snack to share, covered cups for the kids, a gift worth less than $1 and friends.  We will be snacking, playing games and watching a family movie.  Any questions contact Liz at 434-1800 or Nicole at 566-0073.

 

 

 

Read Full Post»

January Children's Seminar

 

Don't forget to sign-up for The January Children's Super Seminar!!!  This will be great information for children's volunteers, parents, grandparents and anyone that has contact with children.  The seminar is Saturday, January 17th from 9:00-2:00.  $12 registration fee includes snacks, lunch, training and a few teaching tools. Registration is due before January 5th to Nikki Zajicek 617-9772. 

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greeters

This Sunday there will be sign up sheet for the
upcoming year. If you are unable to attend the
service on the 23rd, but would like to be on the
schedule, email Paul at paul@portagechurch.org, or
call 605-393-1244this week to be put on the shedule. Read Full Post»

Updates from Pastor Bob's Blog

Would you like to get daily e-mail updates from Pastor Bob's blog?  

Daily updates, scripture pondering, inspiring thoughts, doctrinal clarity, technology, and humorous posts!  

Just go to www.UnmeritedFavor.net/blog and subscribe.

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Please Use Front Door

Our Building & Grounds Team is working on a copier room by the back door (near the alley).  While this is under construction, please do not use the back door at all.  He is asking that everyone please use the front door.  Thanks! Read Full Post»

Christmas eve service

If anyone is interested in helping out with the Christmas eve program we are having a short meeting on Wed. Dec 17th at 6:00pm. So if you can make it please come. If you can't make it but still want to help please email Alisha@PortageChurch.org.
Thanks Read Full Post»

BABY JESUS BIRTHDAY PARTY!!!!

December 21, 2008 we will be having a Birthday Party for JESUS!!! Immediately AFTER the CHURCH SERVICE...This is for the children, so moms and dads feel free to go do some last minute Christmas shopping! We will meet for 1 1/2 hours to have cake and games and activities. This is to honor our Lord and Saviour on HIS Birthday. We'll be driving home the TRUE MEANING of the season. I'm so excited that we are starting this tradition here at River. Hope to see all of the kids there!!! For questions contact: Dawn Jahn@(608)566-9400, or Amber, or Mary 742-8284. Merry CHRISTmas!!! Read Full Post»

River New Years Eve Party

RIVER OF LIFE NEW YEARS EVE
FAMILY FUN NIGHT!

COME AND JOIN US AT
RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH,
FOR A FUN NIGHT WITH
GAMES, FOOD AND A
FUN FAMILY & CHURCH
FELLOWSHIP TIME!

TIME: 6PM – 10PM

THINGS TO BRING

*PLEASE BRING A SNACK
FOOD TO SHARE,
*A GIFT THAT IS A $1 OR LESS IN VALUE, THIS IS GOING TO BE USED IN ONE OF OUR GAMES, PLEASE WRAP THE GIFT.
*PLEASE BRING A CUP WITH A LID, (sippy cups work great)
FOR ALL KIDS.

GAMES WE ARE PLAYING

*TAKE AWAY BINGO
*PICTIONARY
*DISNEY SCENE IT

IF TIME ALLOWS WE WILL BE WATCHING THE MOVIE HORTON HEARS A WHO!


SO COME AND HAVE A BLAST AND BRING IN THE NEW YEAR (a little early) WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!

DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE SIGN UP SHEET FOR BRINGING FOOD! Read Full Post»

Update on Sara's grandpa~ PLEASE PRAY

Sara's grandpa Billy went to be w/ the Lord yesterday afternoon. Please continue to pray for the family.

If you would like to make a meal, or send your condolences, please contact me at 617-4274 Read Full Post»

Christmas Caroling

Join us to spread some Joy and Love to our neighbors.  Meet at River Wednesday, December 17th at 6:30PM for Christmas Caroling.  This is for all ages so no child care will be provided.  Hope to see you there.   Nikki

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Update on Sara T's Grandpa~PLEASE PRAY

Sara's grandpa has been in the hospital for days now with liver/kidney/ and lung issues. His tests came back lastnight that the fluid they took from his lungs is not cancerous. They would have to do a more invasive test to find out if it is indeed cancer in his liver or kidneys.

They had to up his blood pressure meds, because his pressure is very low making his extremities very cold and his feet are turning more purple, its hard to find a pulse in his feet, they still can in his hands. They have also upped his sedation meds due to his increasing pain.

He has been on dialysis for some time now, and your body cannot be for a long period of time. So with all this being said, the family had to make a decision (knowing Billys wishes) to no longer let him suffer. The family will be coming together today ( wed) to say their goodbyes.

Please continue to pray for the family, and if you would like to send a meal over to help Sara out please contact me at 617-4274 Read Full Post»

URGENT Prayer Request

Please be in prayer for Sara Treddinnicks Grandfather (Billy) he has been addmitted to the ICU at the UW for what they thought was pnemonia, then turned into kidney/liver/and lung problems, and now think it might be cancer. He is on life support,and is not eating, they are most likely going to start tube feeding tomorrow. Please pray for his comfort, and Gods will.

Please also pray for the family, whom has been by his side, God help them understand and find peace in you.

Please pray for the doctors aswell.


I will update this post as I am updated, all prayers are appreciated Read Full Post»

Annual Meeting Results

We had our annual meeting yesterday.  We were pleased to see it was our largest one ever!  A lot was accomplished at that meeting.  Just in case you missed it, I will share some of the exciting news that happened yesterday:

• We ate lunch together, enjoying each other's company and then shared communion together in the middle of the meal.

• We heard 7 ministry team reports from our 7 deacons - allowing us to hear all the ways that God is working in our midst as well as opportunities to grow in 2009.

• We heard the annual Pastor's Report including highlights from 2008 & some vision for 2009.  God is working through River of Life Church!

• We adopted 2 position statements to better clarify and add depth to our doctrinal position.

• We approved our largest budget to date to expand our ministry horizons even further.

• We approved to sponsor a church plant in the Middleton area in 2009, which will be led by Chad & Sherri Ellis.

• We reminded the people of the HUGE missions opportunity in the Dells this summer that River will be overseeing.  100 - 250 people coming to the Dells!

• Everyone who attended received an autographed copy of "Karla Faye Tucker - Set Free" book by Linda Strom.

• We gave away about 25 additional gifts in a raffle give-a-way.

• The big final prize was a trutone ESV Study Bible, which went to Trina Gaunt!

All in all, it was a great meeting!  Thank you to all the members and regular attendees who were able to make it and participate.  I truly cannot wait to see what God has in store for River in 2009!  God bless...

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River Ladies... YOU ROCK!

I am so honored to be a part of the Women's Ministry! I had such a wonderful time tonight, I dont think things could've gone any better. We had 32 in attendace! SOOOOOOO much food, lol... Southern Baptist Women... LOL...

Thank you so much to all who attended, and a special thanks to Sara T for singing, Kerrie for her poems, and Autumn for her devotional.

I enjoyed so much just sitting back and watching all my sisters enjoying their time w/ fellow sisters, it was priceless and brought many smiles to my face. Thank you all. I love ya's!

Thanks so much to the ladies that stayed a little later and helped clean up~ much appreciated!

For the ladies that couldnt make it this year, we hope to see you at our 2nd annual Christmas bash in 2009! We missed you.

God is Good... Can I get an amen!?

In Him~Jenn Read Full Post»

A Way to Lighten the Load

“Moses’ father-in-law replied, ‘What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.’” Exodus 18:17-18

Admit it—as a society we’re overloaded and stressed out
most of the time. The pace and pressure of our day piles up and affects our physical, emotional, and mental health. It distorts our attitudes at work, home, and even in our ministries. Pushed to the limit, we become exhausted and, ultimately, ineffective.

But God doesn’t expect us to do everything alone. Even Moses was advised by Jethro, his father-in-law, to ask for help and delegate some of the work. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—in fact, it shows character.

I don’t know what you’re wrestling with in your life, but I do know that right now, somewhere in your life, some people are just waiting for you to ask them to help you. God has them there for you. Maybe a friend can give you a break from care-giving responsibilities. Or a supervisor will assure that your work gets done as you go through chemotherapy. Or a credit counselor is waiting for you to call so she can help you get back to financial freedom.

Only you know what’s weighing you down. But Jesus stands ready to help you figure out how to lighten the load, and He has placed people in your life to assist you.
All you have to do is ask. Read Full Post»

River Ladies Christmas Party!

River of Life Church
Thursday, December 4th
6pm-9pm

Dont forget to invite a friend, bring a snack to pass, and a wrapped ornament w/ your name and year on it, for an arnament exchange!

The exchange will be at 7pm, and there will also be a few gifts raffled off, so dont forget to enter your name in the drawing when you come to the party!

If you are interested in singing a song, reading a poem, scripture, a devotion, or whatever talent you may have and would like to share w/ you sista's, please conact me ASAP~ We would LOVE to have you share!

A few of us will be coming early, about 5pm-ish to help set up, and I hope we all can come together to clean up so we can all get home to our families at a decent hour.

Call Jenn w/ any questions 617-4274

otherwise... SEE YA THURSDAY

PS~ feel free to dress up in your best Christmas gear, fancy, funny, or fatigues :-) Read Full Post»

Ralphs 50th (100th) Surprise Birthday Party!!

Just wanted to drop you all a line to invite you to a SURPRISE Birthday Party for my BELOVED husband! He has turned 50 on the 14th and has never-ever had a party in his honor. Sooo I'm asking for any who are available to drop in a join us celebrate on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 29th  @ our house 410 East Edgewater St.  Portage at 5:00 pm to ? 

Fellowship, cake, and ice cream. 

It is a SURPRISE so help me keep it that way. Sorry short notice. Tech. difficulty with this BLOG. 

RSVP 742-8284

Read Full Post»

How to use ESV Study Bible

I have had a lot of people tell me how much they love their new ESV Study Bible.  I'm glad you are enjoying it!  However, I have also found that many of you are unaware of some of the many features, extras, and little "how to's" to get full usage out of this new & exciting tool.  I've had a lot of excited people asking some good questions, so... 

For those of you who have purchased the ESV Study Bible or are considering getting one... would you be interested in having a sit down discussion and guiding time of how to use the ESV Study Bible & online tools?  Would this be of interest to you?

I'd like to see you all get the most out of this great new tool & the word of God.  If this would interest you, please let me know by commenting to this blog post or e-mail me.

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NO SCUBA this Week

A quick reminder that we will not be having SCUBA this Wednesday night, nor next Wednesday.  

Please make sure to check the River online calendar for all upcoming events.  You can find it by going to: www.PortageChurch.org/calendar.html

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CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

Invite your friends & family to River's special Christmas Eve Service Wednesday, December 24th at 6 PM.

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What a Great Service!

Wow!!  We had 178 in attendance yesterday - our biggest service ever!!  We heard 4 testimonies from Kay, Jessica, Dawn, and Jesse before seeing them baptized!  We also saw about 10 - 12 people surrender their lives to Jesus Christ yesterday and get saved!!

Wow... what an AWESOME day!!

A special THANK YOU to all of the people that made yesterday possible.  To all of the children's workers, nursery volunteers, and to all those that did the "behind the scenes" duties that make everything work - THANK YOU  so much!!!  Your service is not in vain.  God sees all and the lives that were changed yesterday will be just a taste of the eternal reward in Heaven.  I want to say THANK YOU for those who joyfully serve their church for the sole purpose of allowing the Gospel message to be proclaimed to the lost.  Praise God!!

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Prayer request

Please be in prayer for Maisyn and Mykenza... Maisyn has had a fever on and off all day today, and tonight it got up to 102.5, ibeprofen hardly brought it down before she went to sleep. Mykenza has an elevated temp of 100.5 and discomfort. Please just lift my babes up, I just hate it when they are sick. :-(

Thanks Jenn Read Full Post»

Trent Shoessows Celebration of Life service

Monday November 24, 2008
CrossPoint Assembly of God Church
2727 County Hwy CX (behind walmart)
Visitation 10am
Service 11am
Luncheon to follow service at the church

The families address is...
N2728 Wilson Road
Poynette, WI 53955 Read Full Post»

Announcement

No SCUBA this week or next week
We will not be having SCUBA this week or next. SCUBA will resume
again on Wednesday, December 10th. Read Full Post»

Trent is with our Lord

I am very sorry to tell you that Trent has just passed away to be with the Lord Jesus. We grieve with the family and ask you to continue to pray for them as they mourn and heal.

Psalm 55:22 says:
"Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." Read Full Post»

Pray for Trent & family

I'm here at the hospital with little Trent & his parents. Things don't look promising. They did a test this morning & determined him brain dead. Sandra & Terry are prayfully considering when to take Trent off life support.

Please continue to pray for this family. Read Full Post»

Re: URGENT prayer meeting for Trent

Prayer vigil time has been moved up do to the test time being moved. We will be at River of Life Church at 8:15am please come  when you can.   River of Life Church 102 w. Franklin st Portage, wi 53930 Thanks, Jenn Selbach River of Life Church

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URGENT prayer request

There is a 2 1/2yr old boy named Trent Shoessow, fighting for his life that NEEDS our prayers!

Please Please pray for a miracle, as Trent hasnt had brain activity all day today, and not breathing on his own; he is on life support.

There will be another test done tomorrow (11-20) at 11am, the deciding factor will be made from the results. Please pray in faith for a miracle! God does Amazing things, and this family NEEDS Him right now, aswell as our diligent prayers.

I will update as I am updated

Thanks-Jenn Read Full Post»

Bookcase

I have a small bookcase that needs to go to church. It is being donated to the Children's Ministry. If someone could come by and pick it up, that would be great. It is about 30x30x12. It would fit in most vehicles. I am at 712 W. Wisconsin St in Portage. I am home most of the time, so whenever is convenient for you is fine! Thank you!

Tara
617-4752 Read Full Post»

Website Update - November 20th @ 10 PM

Our server support team will be performing scheduled maintenance on our server on November 20th @ 10:00 PM CST. During this time they will be upgrading our web server for higher performance and security.

The church website (www.PortageChurch.org) as well as my personal website (www.UnmeritedFavor.net) will be unavailable for an estimated 30-45 minutes. During this time an "Under Maintenance" page will be displayed instead of the normal content.

The blogs for both the church, and my personal site will still be available by direct access at the following addresses:

Church Blog: http://riverreport.blogspot.com

My Blog: http://pastorbobturner.blogspot.com

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SCUBA Pre-Work for Ephesians 2:15-16

Here is the pre-work for this coming week's SCUBA study.  Click the following link to download it.  This will also be available at the information center near the front door of the worship center. 

http://portagechurch.org/scuba/Ephesians/Ephesians%202.15-16.pdf Read Full Post»

Kids Christmas Program

As the Christmas season is coming upon us very quickly we are beginning to think about Kids Christmas Program.  We are looking for people who would like help us plan this program.  If you have any ideas we would love to hear them. We will be having a short planning meeting in the near future to brain storm ideas.   Keep your ears open for a time and date.

If you know that you would like to help you can also e-mail me as well.

Alisha@PortageChurch.org

Thanks,

Alisha Turner

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Youth

Reminder of the Youth Meeting this Sunday, November 9th from 4PM-6PM at River of Life Church.

 

Please join us to discuss a possible River of Life Youth Ministry!  Please RSVP to Nikki Z at 617-9772.  All adults are welcome.

Read Full Post»

Samaritan's Purse Boxes

Reminder that the boxes for Samaritan's purse are due this Sunday!!

Full shoe boxes can be put on the table to the right as you come in the entry way.

 

If you need ideas for what to put in your box or directions, there are flyers on the table in the entry way.  

 

What you will do:  1)  Get a shoe box, 2) determine if you will have a box for a boy of a girl and what age group (2-4, 5-9 or 10-14), 3) Fill with gifts 4) It is optional if you would like to give $7 to help cover shipping costs, 5) Drop off at River by November 9th.  Place a rubber band around the shoe box to keep it closed.  6) Optional: you can enclose a note or photo for the child.

 

If you would like to support the project but don't want to fill a box please consider donating toward the shipping costs. 

 

Do not include:  Used/damaged items; war-related items; knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snowglobes or glass containers; aerolsol cans.

 

Also, there will be a pizza party for all the kids that participate on Friday, November 14 from 6:00-7:30. 

 

If you would like to find out more about Samaritan's Purse go to http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ or contact Mary at 742-8284.

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Father's Love

You must watch this video.

http://www.maximumreferrals.com/videos/bridge/bridge.html


John 3:16-21
"For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him."
"There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God's light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants"


Challenge yourselves to share the Word this week. Invite someone to church, pray with someone, share your testimony. The more you do it, the easier it gets.

God Bless, Tara Read Full Post»

Baptism Service - November 23rd

For those of you who would like to be baptized as a believer, please let me know as soon as possible.  You can e-mail me, or fill out a YELLOW WELCOME CARD this Sunday at church.

For those who would like to be baptized, you will need to meet with me next Sunday (November 16th) directly after church. 

Thanks!!  Pastor Bob

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Voting Guide

Don't forget to vote this Tuesday, November 4th.  I encourage you to pray, vote your values, and then pray...

To help you , here is a link to a voting guide.  Let me also encourage you to vote the issues, and not for a party or person.  Thank you!

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SCUBA Pre-Work for Ephesians 2:11-12

For those of you who need the pre-work for SCUBA this week, you can download it here:

http://portagechurch.org/scuba/Ephesians/Ephesians%202-11-12.pdf Read Full Post»

Prayer Request for Tracy

I'm not sure if you've heard about it on the news or not, but the accident on Hwy V in Vienna - outside of DeForest - involved one of my closest friends and coworker Tracy. She is the only one that survived the accident. The accident happened Sunday evening.

She is a Christian, and prayers for healing would be awesome. She's at UW Hospital and is stable. She's had surgery on her colon and intestines as well as her right hand. She will need additional surgery on her hand as nerves were severed and need to be reattached. She will be in the hospital for the remainder of the week and quite possibly into next week.

Thank you!

Erin Read Full Post»

River Ladies Christmas Party

Hey River Ladies, its party time! Thursday December 4th~6pm-9pm  Looking for help to plan food, secret santa, setup and clean up. Contact Jenn @ 617-4274

Read Full Post»

I Appreciate the Appreciation

I wanted to say "THANK YOU" to everyone at River for the new grill. That is just awesome! I used it that night. Thank you so much. Read Full Post»

God is SO Amazing!

Well... We all made it back safely from Texas. Thank you all for your prayers!

I cannot wait to share what God is doing in Texas! He is so amazing...

Jenn Read Full Post»

Samaritan's Purse

Operation Christmas Child is a service project that the River of Life Children's Church kids are doing (and anyone else that wants to participate).

 

What you will do:  1)  Get a shoe box, 2) determine if you will have a box for a boy of a girl and what age group (2-4, 5-9 or 10-14), 3) Fill with gifts 4) It is optional if you would like to give $7 to help cover shipping costs, 5) Drop off at River by November 9th.  Place a rubber band around the shoe box to keep it closed.  6) Optional: you can enclose a note or photo for the child.

 

If you would like to support the project but don't want to fill a box please consider donating toward the shipping costs. 

 

Do not include:  Used/damaged items; war-related items; knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snowglobes or glass containers; aerolsol cans.

 

There will be flyers with more info at the church. 

 

Also, there will be a pizza party for all the kids that participate on November 14.

 

If you would like to find out more about Samaritan's Purse go to http://www.samaritanspurse.org/ or contact Mary at 742-8284.

Read Full Post»

Please Pray...

There will be 16 of us from the Centeral Baptist Association traveling to Texas on a missions trip. We leave tomorrow (10/17), and will be returning late Tuesday night (10/21).

Please keep us all in your prayers for safe, anxiety free travels, for God to do amazing things through us while we are there, and for us all to return home safely.

Thank you & God Bless!
Jenn Selbach Read Full Post»

SCUBA Notes from Last Night

For those of you who missed last night's SCUBA lesson, we closed our study of Ephesians 2:8-10.  The pre-work for ch. 2:11-12 is in the info station in the entrance of the church.  

So for those who couldn't be there, click here are some notes from it.  If you have questions, please see someone who was there for a further explanation if you need it.

Read Full Post»

River Haven

I have an awesome volunteer opportunity that I would like to make you aware of. I am now the Volunteer Coordinator for River Haven, the Homeless Shelter. We have many wonderful volunteers, but are always looking for more. It is a wonderful way to help your community. If you are interested, please contact me. We have shifts that can fit just about anyone's schedule.
Laurie Hansen 566-1230 Read Full Post»

Portage Youth!!!

 

Please join us to discuss a possible River of Life Youth Ministry.

 

Sunday, November 9^th from 4PM-6PM at River of Life Church

 

The agenda will include: 

 

1) Praying for River youth, Portage youth, past River youth group members, future leaders and God's guidance for a future River youth ministry.

 

2) Brainstorming.  Please bring any ideas for a River youth ministry.  Let's dream for current and future River youth opportunities. 

 

3) Be willing to share your experience w/any youth ministries and your passion for Portage youth.

 

Please RSVP to Nikki Z at 617-9772.  All adults are welcome.

Read Full Post»

Good News Club Snacks

Good News Club (GNC) has met twice this year.  Last week we had 20 kids, this week 36!!!  The leaders are very excited to see what God is doing at Rusch!  Please be in prayer for us.

 

We are looking for people to bring a snack for the GNC kids to have after school.  This could be a one time commitment or once a month, whatever fits your budget.  Please contact Nikki Z 617-9772 or NikkiZ@portagechurch.org.

Read Full Post»

CEF Variety Show

Calling all child stars!  Child Evangelism Fellowship (the ministry behind Good News Clubs in our schools and many non-denominational local outreaches) is having a fundraiser/talent show night Saturday, Nov 8th at 6pm at Lighthouse Familiy Ministries in Poynette.  We are looking for any and all types of kid talent, it can be cute or funny or sweet, or whatever kids can do!

Children can perform in groups or do a solo; anything is welcome that will glorify God and entertain.  The more variety the better.  Does your child know a dance number from last years' dance class?  Is he willing to read a passage of scripture?  Sing a song?  Do a cheer?  Do a puppet skit?  Can anybody do skateboard tricks, or shoot a basketball creatively?  I would love to have some gymnasts or a karate demo.

Contact Julie at 429-4656 or 617-4590 if you are able to help CEF by allowing your child to participate.  There will be one dress rehearsal Friday, Nov 7th, so it isn't a lengthy time commitment, just that Fri and Sat eve.

 It's kids only!  If you know somebody talented, drop me a line!

Read Full Post»

River Ladies Christmas Party!

Mark your calenders ladies!!!!!

Thursday, December 4th

If you are interested in helping w/ the party please contact Jenn at Jenn@PortageChurch.org.

More details to come... Read Full Post»

Chris Tomlin concert

Chris Tomlin Concert January 31st!!!!! Tickets are $23 If you're interested, please contact Jenn at  Jenn@PortageChurch.org 608-617-4274, as we need to order tickets ASAP.

Read Full Post»

Voter's Guides Available at River

Voter's guides are available at the information center at River. The
information center is the rotating rack in the entry way. Feel free
to take one and pray before you vote. Read Full Post»

Coats of Many Colors

Coats of Many Colors Coat Drive

Collecting until Oct 19th:
Gently used & clean winter coats, infant to adult.
        -workable buttons, zippers & snaps
 Snow boots of all sizes

Collection container in church entryway.

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SCUBA is still on

Hi everyone!  Although I am out of town this week, I will be back Wednesday night to teach SCUBA.  So we will still be having SCUBA!  See you Wednesday night at 7 PM. Read Full Post»

"Cleaning House"

Hey All -  Over the course of the next two weeks, we are going to do some "cleaning house" in a few areas of our worship center.  If you have items in the area near the back entrance, in the wooden pulpit in the back of the sanctuary or near the south wall of the kitchen - please take them otherwise we will be donating or disposing of them.  Thanks a bunch :)  Mike & Faith

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Pastor Bob is Out of Town Oct. 6 - 11

Pastor Bob will be out of town Monday October 6th until Sunday October 12th. Also, the entire Leadership Team is out of town Friday Oct. 10th & Saturday Oct. 11th for a retreat together. Read Full Post»

Sign-in & Car Talk

The sign-in for children's church has moved to inside the sanctuary.  Please sign your children ages 4 years-5th grade in for children's church. 

 

Don't forget to pick up a Car Talk each week!  They are located on the bulletin board in the entry way.

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Must be moving season!

Emily and I are relocating across town this weekend! We are very excited to be moving away from the flood prone area! Sorry for the short notice, but I had to be sure to finalize a few details before posting about it.
We are able to start moving in Sunday after church. I am doing a walk-thru at noon, and then moving in. Saturday I will be packing up the rest of the house/daycare and making sure that things are as 'grab and go' ready as possible. If there is anyone that would be willing to come help for a little bit, it would be great! I am not closing daycare during this process, and need to have the basics set-up for when I open on Monday. If there is anyone that would be able to come help me with some unpacking next week, it would be greatly appreciated! I will have pizza and beverages on hand. The playroom will remain set-up thru Saturday, so children are welcome!

One of the perks is that we are now just 2 blocks from Emily's school and closer to some dear friends, and closer to River!

Moving on up and moving on out!

Details:
Current house:
215 Brook St~ Close to Pizza Hut, turn LEFT at Portage Motors/Moto Mart. 2nd block, left side, yellow house.

New home:
712 W. Wisconsin.~Across of St. John's Church
You can park in front of the house, or behind it. The house has W. Wisconsin on the front side, and another street on the backside. Big white house. Read Full Post»

Children's Church

Help is still needed for helping with children's church and nursery during the service.  The rotation is once every 4-6 weeks.  Please contact Nikki Z with questions.

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Put the fun Back in Parenting.....

There are two Love & Logic classes being offered this fall, child care is provided for both:    

 

1) at Woodridge Primary School from 5:30-7:30 Thursday nights from Oct 9th-Nov 20th.  Supper is provided.  Call Mrs Hoksch 742-3494 ext 3102 for more info or to register.

 

2) at Pardeeville elementary, call the Pardeeville schools for more info. 

 

I would highly recommend the classes.  Please contact me with any questions Nikki Z 617-9772

 

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Antiquities Fundraiser for Mops

I just wanted to let you all know that Mops(Mothers of preschoolers) is doing a fundraiser. We are having pictures of the kiddos taken. The date is Oct. 17th and 18th. They will be black and white with a colorsplash. They provide the clothing we just need the kids. We sell a coupon for $10.00 and you receive a 10x13 print about 2 weeks later. It is for a great cause and have done these picures many times. They are very cute. If anyone is interested please contact me at 697-3790. This will be a great Christmas present for loved ones or just something different from the usuals. I will have coupons on Sunday and can sell them until Oct. 9th. Please help support this ministry.

Sara Tredinnick
saratredinnick@yahoo.com Read Full Post»

EWOMEN CONFERENCE INFO

The conference IS SOLD OUT! So whoever has their ticket and is going, I NEED to meet briefly w/ you after church this week. I will be canceling rooms Monday October 6th. I have a number of 5 that are going, if you havent already let me know that you DO have your ticket, it is a MUST you let me know no later than this Sunday October 5th!

I will be driving, we are meeting at my place of employment on Friday October 10th at 3:30pm, leaving at approx. 3:45pm, and checking into the hotel before we go over to the conference

Call me 608-617-4274 or email me Jenn@PortageChurch.org Read Full Post»

You're invited to.....

Good News Club at Rusch.  All kids ages Kindergarten-6th grade can come learn about God AT SCHOOL.  Starting Tuesday, October 7 from 3:00-4:15 in the Rusch elementary cafeteria.  Kids will play games, learn memory verses, do crafts and hear a Bible story.  Pick up a permission slip in the school office.  Any questions contact Nikki Z 617-9772.

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Childcare Help for Checking the Water

Would anyone who is not attending Checking the Water on October 5th like to volunteer to watch kids for some who would like to attend?  I don't know that this is needed yet, but it would be nice to know if someone asks.  

If you would like to help out, please e-mail me: Bob@PortageChurch.org   thanks!

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CBA Annual Rally

Everyone is invited to attend our Association's Annual Meeting & Rally on Saturday, Oct. 11th starting at 9 AM held at Trinity Baptist Church in Reedsburg. 

Our Director of Missions, Mark Millman has a blog post on why you should attend the CBA Rally this year.  Contact the CBA office for more info: (608) 825-9946    

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Checking the Water - Oct 5th

Checking the Water is River's membership class. This will be Sunday, October 5th around noon. 

Please feel free to grab or bring a lunch and eat during the session. Please fill out a yellow card to let us know you are attending.  I hope to see you there!

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Children's Bibles

Does anyone have any gently used children's bibles that they would be willing to donate to River Children's Ministry and/or for use at Good News Club at Julia Rusch?

 

If you have anything please contact Nikki at 617-9772.

 

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Position Statements

At our annual meeting, on Sunday December 7th, we will voting to adopt 2 position statements to our church doctrine.  These statements are not new in the sense of additional or alternative teaching to what most of you are used to from the pulpit at River.  Instead, they are some of our core teachings that are already being communicated.  

With that in mind, your River Leadership Team is recommending to amend our current doctrinal statement to better reflect who we are and what we believe on these specific issues.  We believe this will help keep unity in the church and assist those outside our church to better understand some of our beliefs on some key issues and topics.

I am asking all members to print and read through these position statements and e-mail me with any questions or comments as soon as possible.  All potential future members should also read through these to get a better understanding of our doctrinal stance on these important subjects.

Here are the position statements for your review:

• Reformed Positional Statement

• Charismatic Positional Statement

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Prayer for Anne & her family

Please be in prayer for Anne and her family.  Her brother-in-law passed away.  She is out of town for a few days for the funeral.  Pray for her family to turn to Christ through this difficult time.  Thanks! Read Full Post»

FALL DECORATING !!

WE NEED SMILING FACES AND HELPING HANDS TO BRING SOME FESTIVE FALL COLOR TO OUR WORSHIP CENTER INSIDE AND OUT - WE'LL HAVE PUMPKINS, STALKS, HAY BALES, ETC ... ALL WE NEED IS YOU!  PLEASE COME AND JOIN US - WE'D LOVE TO SHARE THE FUN

 

WE'LL BE MEETING AT THE WORSHIP CENTER ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 AT 5PM TO DO THE DECORATING  - COME TO HELP AND THEN PLAN TO STAY FOR SCUBA !!

 

HOPE TO SEE YA'LL THERE -

 

MIKE & FAITH

 

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ESV Study Bible - Ephesians Chapter 1

For those of you who are attending our Ephesians study, the ESV Study Bible (set to be released Oct. 15th) just put out the intro and study notes for Ephesians chapter 1.

Feel free to check it out to re-cap all the verses and subjects that we recently finished studying. You can find this in pdf form by going to: http://www.esvstudybible.org/images/excerpt-ephesians-intro.pdf

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WILD AT HEART STUDY

ATTENTION MEN ! ARE YOU READY FOR AN ADVENTURE? WE WILL BE STARTING A NEW STUDY/JOURNEY CALLED WILD AT HEART FROM JOHN ELDERIDGE.  WE SET SAIL ON THIS ADVENTURE ON  SATURDAY OCTOBER 4TH AT 4 P.M   PLAN ON COMING FOR DINNER AND STAYING AS WE BEGIN THIS STUDY.   WE WILL THEN MOVE THE STUDY BACK TO SUNDAY MORNINGS BEGINING AT 8 AM.    PLEASE WATCH FOR MORE INFO AND SEE MIKE G ABOUT GETTING A BOOK. GOD BLESS---------MIKE   we are still meeting on sundays morning at 8:30 up until then please join us all men are welcome

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SCUBA Pre-Work

The SCUBA pre-work is now available for this coming week.  

You can access it by going to: 

http://idisk.mac.com/bobinwisc-Public/SCUBA/Ephesians%202-4-7.pdf

This week we are studying Ephesians 2:4-7, our new life in Christ. Please feel free to read through and participate this Wednesday at 7 PM!

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Moving help needed for Turners

Just an update.  We have decided to move on Saturday September the 27th instead of Friday night as we won't be done with our closing until 5pm.  So if you can help at all we would very much appreciate it.  We will start loading the trailers up at 8am at the apartment. So if you can help please let us know.  

I will have coffee and breakfast at the apartment.  Lunch as well will be provided.

Thank you,

Turner Family

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FREE MOVIE-HELP NEEDED

CEF will be showing a free movie- The story of Jesus for children.  This movie will be free and showing on September 2oth at 10AM at the Portage Theater.  For adults and kids.

We are looking for helpers...

We need people to come at 9:15 on Saturday to help with the kids and to traffic the theater.

And they also need people to be counselors to be available after the movie to answer questions and pray with the kids.  If you can help with this there will be a training session on Friday Sept.19th at River from 6:30-8:30pm.  Johanna from CEF will be there to do this training.

And we will be given free tickets to hand out to people who live by you and you friends and family. So we will also need you help in handing these out, kind of like reverse trick-or - treating.

More info coming soon.

Any questions please talk to Alisha or email me at  Alisha@PortageChurch.org

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Baptism Service - September 14

If you would like to be baptized as a believer, please fill out a yellow card or contact Pastor Bob as soon as possible. 

All who will be baptized need to meet with Pastor Bob next Sunday (Sept. 7th) after the service.

Thanks!

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Children's Church in need of many committed volunteers

We are very light in all age groups for volunteers-in the class room divisions we only have 3 or 4 volunteers for each group.  This is to serve God, grow outside your comfort zone and give  back to our church family.  It gets to be a lot when it’s the same 3-4 people all the time.

Thanks ~ Karrie

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SCUBA Update for this week

For those of you who attend SCUBA on Wednesday nights, you were given the pre-work for starting Ephesians chapter 2 for this week.  Well, we have a slight change of plans... I would like to revisit one example that was raised last week and go through some of the questions in a little more detail.

The example given was from Deb about the person who says they got saved years ago, and never stops sinning... in fact they have an ego or attitude about their sin now.  We talked briefly about knowing them by their fruits with a little distraction.  I would like to spend a little more time to make sure you all understand what the Bible is talking about here.  

So with that being said, I am taking a brief detour and have issued some different pre-work for this Wednesday.  Please hold on to the Eph. ch. 2 pre-work, as we will get to that after we answer these questions first.

Here is the link to the new pre-work for this Wednesday.   †

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New Blog Home for River Report!

I have moved the 'River Report' blog to blogspot now. The old blog was hacked into and some links were re-routed to another website.  So I have re-routed the old links to this new location.

I have wanted to move our church blog to blogspot for a while now so this just helped put a fire in me to actually do it.  So welcome to the new River Report!!

I want to welcome you all to post prayer requests, announcements, updates, discussions, etc on here. So feel free to register for a free blogger account by clicking this link.

Then comment on this post or e-mail me and I will be glad to get you set up to post on this blog.   †

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