Fellowship Christmas Dinner Planned (UPDATED)

Thanksgiving is still a few days away and already we are planning a church fellowship Christmas Dinner. We will be serving lasagna on Sunday December 13, 2009 at 5:00 pm to the entire congregation. All are invited. See Debbie Weese for more information.

UPDATE: Following the dinner, Divine Delay will be presenting a concert.

Youth Christmas Party

The youth will be having a Christmas party with the youth from New Beginnings Church at the Fresh Grounds coffee house on Sunday December 13, 2009 at 6:30 pm. Bring a pair gift-wrapped socks for a gift exchange. All youth in grades 7-12 are invited.

Christmas Cantata Performance

The choir will be presenting their annual Christmas cantata on Sunday December 20, 2009 at 6:00 pm. This year's performance is entitled "Emmanuel - Celebrating Heaven's Child".

Women's Meeting and Christmas Party (UPDATED)

On Tuesday December 8, 2009 at 7:00 pm the Women's Ministry will hold their annual Christmas Party. All women of the church are encouraged to attend. The special emphasis this year is the donation of items needed by the Salvation Army that are not usually available for purchase with food stamps. See Cyndi Sankey for a list of needed items or more information.

UPDATE: The Salvation Army donation is being done in lieu of a gift exchange. The items needed by the Salvation Army are:

• Household cleaning supplies


• Laundry soap


• Bleach


• Fabric softener or dryer sheets


• Paper towels


• Toilet paper


• Diapers for adults or toddlers


• Feminine hygiene products


• Personal hygiene items


• Aspirin


• Tylenol for children or adults


• Tissues

Please bring your donation to the church by Tuesday December 8, 2009.

Also those attending will be making lap blankets and shoulder wraps to give to those who need a little extra warmth during our services. So bring your favorite recipe card along with a finger-food or a treat to share.

Winter Quarter Adult Sunday School Classes Offered

The winter quarter for the Sunday School calendar will begin on December 6, 2009. We are offering these 3 classes for adults this quarter:

"Systematic Theology" led by Pastor Todd Jaussen will continue. This is a deep look at the doctrines of our faith. This quarter will focus on the Doctrine of the Trinity and Salvation. Anyone can join the class at any time. Here is a link to a preview of the book that is being used: Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine by Wayne A. Grudem.

"A Powerful Prayer Life" will be a discussion of the book How to Develop a Powerful Prayer Life: The Biblical Path to Holiness and Relationship with God by Gregory Frizzell. Prayer is probably the most important thing we can do on our own in our Christian life. Pete Keeley will be leading this class.

"About My Father's Business - Biblical Business Management" will be taught by Lee Earnhardt. This class will examine the Bible to understand what God has said about taking our faith to the marketplace and honoring God in the midst of the world. We will look at our calling as Christians in the workplace, and how we can apply Scripture in living out our faith. There will be teaching, discussion, and sharing so we can learn from the Bible and one another's experience.

Christmas Caroling Voices Needed

Christmas caroling is being planned for Saturday afternoon December 12, 2009. We will leave from Crossroads at 1:00 pm and head to the local nursing homes and Greenville House. Please sign up if you want to go. Refreshments will be provided upon returning to the church. The more voices the better.

Holiday Plans from The Good Shepherd Center (UPDATED)

The Good Shepherd Center's holiday plans are underway, and our church has been asked to provide 125 canned yams/sweet potatoes or vegetables for their Thanksgiving baskets. Please drop your food donations off at the church office by Sunday November 15, 2009 so we can keep them separate from other donations to the Center.

UPDATE: A special thank you to all those who helped meet and exceed our quota for the Thanksgiving basket program.

Operation Christmas Child to Start (UPDATED)

It's time for Operation Christmas Child to begin. The shoe boxes will be available on Sunday October 18, 2009. This annual mission is a blessing to both the box-fillers and the receivers.

UPDATE: 100 shoe boxes are now available. Each box contains a pamphlet that helps you select appropriate items for the child. The filled boxes must be returned to the church by Sunday November 15, 2009 in order to get them to the next point in the distribution chain.

This program is a great opportunity to share the gospel and the joy of Christmas with those that may never otherwise hear of Jesus Christ.

UPDATE: The Missions Committee would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all who participated in Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. A total of 109 boxes are being sent all over the world from Crossroads and in each one will be a message of the "Love of our Savior".

New Sunday Evening Study Series to Start in November (UPDATED)

A new series from Pastor Todd Jaussen will begin on Sunday November 8, 2009 for the Evening Bible Study program. This 6 week program will address the question: "How can I be sure I am a Christian?".

If this is a question you are wrestling with in your life then please plan to join us as we hear and study words of assurance from the Bible.

The Sunday evening Bible Studies take place from 6-7:00 pm each week.

UPDATE: Due to a prior postponement and a special upcoming Sunday evening event, this new Bible Study series will now begin on Sunday November 22, 2009 at 6:00 pm.

UPDATE: How can I know...really know, with assurance, that I am truly saved and WILL go to heaven when I die? That question has no doubt concerned you and passed through your mind on many occasions. At least it should have! Starting on Sunday November 22, 2009 our evening Bible Study will address this issue with a study of the Assurance of Salvation. Come to explore this vital topic and find the joy, security, and boldness that comes when both facing life and death that results when one has such assurance.

November Women's Ministry Night (UPDATED)

The Women’s Ministry will be holding their monthly meeting/activity night on Tuesday November 10, 2009 at 7:00 pm. Pat Diehl is hosting. All women are encouraged to come!

UPDATE: Joanne Dodson will be presenting a program on "Let Your Light Shine".

Thanksgiving Fellowship Meal Coming Soon (UPDATED)

Our church Thanksgiving Dinner takes place on Sunday November 15, 2009 at 5:00 pm. There is a signup sheet at the church for those planning to attend and a separate signup sheet for those able to provide pies or other food items.

UPDATE: Final preparations for the dinner are in the works. Just a reminder that all are invited, even if you did not have the opportunity to signup; there will be enough food!

Also, following the dinner, Todd and Jan Jaussen will be sharing a presentation on their recent trip to the Holy Lands.

Evening Bible Study Postponed for November 1, 2009 (UPDATED)

Due to illness, the Bible Study session for Sunday November 1, 2009 has been postponed. Watch here for further updates.

UPDATE: The Bible Study session originally scheduled for Sunday November 1, 2009 will take place on Sunday November 8, 2009 at 6:00 pm. This will be the final session in the current series "Deepening Our Understanding of the Bible". A new series will begin November 22, 2009.

Thank You Veterans!

On this Veterans Day -- Wednesday November 11, 2009 -- make a special effort to thank a man or woman who has bravely served our country in any branch of the military: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard. Without them, whether in peacetime or war and on the homefront or abroad, the freedoms we cherish and enjoy would certainly be in jeopardy. They have gallantly stood in the way of oppression, tyranny, and injustice. Every single American freedom, and many more worldwide, is mixed with their blood, sweat, and tears.

We especially want to acknowledge and honor all veterans in our congregation for their service, upholding freedom for all!

To the Veterans: We owe you so much because you gave us so much. Our humble thanks is woefully inadequate.

Ladies Aid Christmas Dinner

The Ladies Aid Christmas Dinner is being planned for Thursday December 3, 2009 at 11:30 am at Rosie’s Restaurant in Jamestown. All Ladies Aid members and social members are invited. Ordering will be off the menu and all dinners will be paid for by Ladies Aid. Please notify Lu Bogacki if you are able to attend.

Monthly Rescue Mission Trip Needs Persons and Cookies

The Rescue Mission trip is this Wednesday November 4, 2009. The van leaves from the church at 4:25 pm and travels to the mission in Youngstown. Please sign up as seating is limited to 10 persons.

Anyone willing to supply a dozen or more cookies should contact Fran Wilkin.

Next Kid's Movie Night Scheduled

The next 5th & 6th grade movie night will be held on Friday November 13, 2009 at the Johnson’s home. Join together at 5:30 pm for dinner, a movie, and a Bible Study based on what was watched.

Come On -- Ring That Bell (UPDATED)

The Salvation Army is getting ready for their annual Christmas Kettle Drive. 100% of the money collected in the kettles goes directly toward providing services to our local community. Our church is slotted for Saturday December 5, 2009 from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm at the Greenville Wal-Mart Food Entrance. If you are interested in volunteering to "Ring the Bell" for the Salvation Army, please sign up. Two persons are required for each hour.

UPDATE: There still are a few slots available for bell ringers. Please sign up to help fill our 12 hour commitment.

Quarterly Congregational Meeting (UPDATED)

Our quarterly congregational meeting will be Thursday October 29, 2009 at 7:00 pm. This is an important function of our church body. We will be discussing the budget proposal and voting on several leadership positions.

UPDATE: With 53 members present, Rich Ehrhart, Jack Knauff, and Frank Weese were voted in another term as Deacons, Will Hamilton was elected to another term as Building Superintendent, Sue Preston was reconfirmed as Treasurer, and the proposed 2010 Budget was approved.

Chili Dinner Scheduled

As the air gets chilly, it's time for chili. We are having a chili dinner after church on Sunday October 18, 2009. The chili will be provided, so bring a favorite side dish and have a great bowl of fellowship.

Joint Leadership Conference Coming

Our church, along with Central Community and Lakeside, will be hosting an Elder/Leadership Conference on Friday evening October 9 and Saturday morning October 10, 2009. The elders of those churches will be meeting at Lakeside during those times, and there will be a special session on Saturday for the elders’ wives. Pastor Randy Pizzino from Trinity Baptist Church in Roanoke, Virginia, will be the speaker. His wife, Julie, will be addressing the wives. If any men in the church aspire to the office of elder and would like to attend these sessions, you are more than welcome.

See one of the elders for more information.

Divine Delay in Concert to Benefit The Good Shepherd Center

A concert will be held on Sunday September 27, 2009 to benefit The Good Shepherd Center of Greenville. It will begin at 6:00 pm at St. Clement's Episcopal Church and will feature Divine Delay. They will bring the music for the evening and refreshments will follow. A love-offering will be taken.

Those attending are also asked to bring a non-perishable, canned protein food.

Annual Quilt Fair Coming Soon, Donations Welcome

Ladies Aid will be holding their annual Quilt Fair at the church on Friday October 9, 2009 and are seeking donations of craft items and baked goods for the event. All items can be brought to the church by Thursday October 8, 2009. Also, please remember to bring your quilts to display.

Ladies Bible Study Set to Resume

The Ladies Bible Study will resume meeting weekly on Wednesday September 16, 2009 at 10:00 am. We will continue with our study from the book Her Name Is Woman by Gien Karssen.

Next Women's Ministry Meeting Moved to September 15, 2009 (UPDATED)

Due to the holiday week and several other activities, the September meeting of the Women's Ministry had been rescheduled for Tuesday September 15, 2009 at 7:00 pm. All women of the congregation are invited to participate.

Update: Hosted by Lorretta Ball and Jeanne Ball, the theme will be "Grandparents' Day". All ladies are invited whether they are grandmothers or not. Please bring pictures of grandchildren for the “Bragging Table.” The meeting will include a devotional, food, and fun.

Contact Cyndi Sankey for more information.

Greenville Version of The Amazing Race

The 2nd annual Amazing Race is going to be held on Sunday October 11, 2009 from 2:30-8:30 pm. The event will start at the New Beginnings Christian Church and finish at Crossroads with dinner, worship, and a great speaker. Students in grades 7-12 are eligible to register in teams of four. Please encourage your friends from outside the church as this event is designed for lots of fun as well as outreach.

Please contact Martha Johnson for more information.

Note that adult helpers are needed to make this day successful.

Kid's Movie Night is Back!

Students in grades 5-6 are invited monthly to share a meal, watch a movie, and then participate in a Bible study that reflects a biblical view of the movie's content.

Hosted by Marty and Martha Johnson, this month's movie will be "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium" on Friday September 18, 2009 from 5:30-8:30 pm. See the Johnsons for more information.

Youth Group Kicking Off for the Year

The new year of Youth Group will be resuming Sunday September 13, 2009. This is open to all students in grades 7-12. We will be having pizza and brainstorming about the upcoming year.

The meeting will be held at Fresh Grounds for 5:45-7:15 pm. Contact Martha Johnson for more information.

Dinner and Concert at Campground

During the church camping weekend September 11-13, 2009, there will be a Potluck Dinner on Saturday evening at 6:00 pm followed by a special concert from Divine Delay at 7:00 pm. Everyone is invited, regardless whether you are camping or not. Please bring a covered dish of your favorite food to share. Place settings will be provided. The campsite is at Pymatuning State Park in Andover, OH.

Results of Shoe Collection Project

A special mission focus of the Family Bible School was to collect new shoes for distribution to at-risk children in the United States and to orphans in 55 countries around the world as administered by Shoes for Orphan Souls. Millions of children do not have decent shoes every day.

We collected a total of 73 pairs of shoes and 25 pairs of socks! Thank you for your support of the project.

Outdoorsmen: Shopping Trip Planned

"Outdoorsmen" and "Shopping Trip" are not two phrases usually found in the same sentence. Still, we are planning a trip to Cabela's in Wheeling, WV for Saturday September 26, 2009. The times have not yet been finalized, but we probably will be leaving early, having breakfast, visiting the store, lunch, and home by late afternoon. Cabela's has much more to offer than just hunting and fishing supplies. Please sign up if you are interested. See Frank Weese or Todd Jaussen if you have any questions.

Men's Retreat at The Castle

The local Men of Vision chapter is gathering with other area chapters for a weekend retreat at The Castle near Franklin, PA. This event on September 11-12, 2009 will be a time of fellowship, fun, games, golf, food, and other activities. See Ray Shingler for more information.

Can You Sing? New Choir Season is Forming (UPDATED)

On Sunday August 30, 2009 there will be a meeting after the worship service for anyone interested in joining the choir.

Weekly choir practice will resume Thursday September 3, 2009 at 6:30 pm.

Contact Debbie Weese for more information.

New Sunday Evening Study Series Announced

Our next Sunday evening Bible Study series led by Pastor Todd Jaussen will begin September 6, 2009 at 6:00 pm. This fall we will start with an 8-week study called "Deepening Our Understanding of the Bible". We will look at two things: first we will give an overview of the whole Bible so that we will understand the different books and what they teach; secondly we will find and follow the one story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Hope to see you there. And bring your Bible...

Three New Sunday School Classes to Start (UPDATED)

The new Sunday School quarter begins on September 6, 2009 and three new classes for adults are scheduled. We hope you can join one of the classes or any of the others being offered.

"Systematic Theology" will be led by Pastor Todd Jaussen. This will be a deeper look at the doctrines of the Bible. It will be a serious study of theology and class members will have reading assignments for throughout the week to be prepared for the class. The student does not need a vast academic background, just a hunger to know the things of God at a deeper and more glorious level. Here is a link to a preview of the book that will be used: Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine by Wayne A. Grudem.

"Returning to Holiness" will follow the guideline of Romans 12:1 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.” How can we fulfill this Scripture in our lives? Here is a study that will help us dig deep into our spiritual lives to reveal the sins we sometimes overlook. These sins can rob us of the peace that godly living produces. This will be a challenging, yet rewarding class taught by Gary Meikle.

Marty and Martha Johnson will be overseeing "The Coffeehouse Gospel". This class will read and discuss the book of the same name by Matthew Paul Turner. This book explores ways in which we can use our personal life stories naturally, in conversation, to share Christ with others. Chapters cover topics such as selflessness, listening through conversation, and engaging your world. This book seeks to empower Christians to engage others in meaningful and purposeful conversation. Here is a link to a preview of the book: The Coffeehouse Gospel: Sharing Your Faith In Everyday Conversation by Matthew Turner.

Calling All Campers: 2009 Camping Weekend Set (UPDATED)

Just a reminder that the Church Camping Weekend is fast approaching. It will be held September 11—13, 2009 at Pymatuning State Park in Andover, OH. There is a signup sheet available for those who plan to camp. You will need to make your own reservations. More information will follow. Questions can be directed to Ray Murrin.

Update: Ray has announced that a few trailers are available to rent for the weekend for those who do not have a camper. See Ray soon if you are interested.

Report on Family Bible School: Shoe Collection (UPDATED)

A special mission focus of the Family Bible School was to collect new shoes for distribution to at-risk children in the United States and to orphans in 55 countries around the world as administered by Shoes for Orphan Souls. Millions of children do not have decent shoes every day. It was decided to extend this program to the end of August before the shoes are packed and sent in. Any type of shoe or boot, socks, and shoelaces is acceptable as long as they are new. The items can be dropped off at the church.

Eye Glasses Collection for Missions

The Missions Committee is collecting old eye glasses to take or send to the Dominican Republic. Any type of old reading glasses, magnifying glasses, sunglasses, etc. will be accepted: prescription or regular. There is a box for these at the church.

Final 2009 Summer Fellowship Gathering (UPDATED)

For the final Summer Fellowship Gathering event, Mrs. Jeanne Ball and family will be presenting an evening of music and memories here at the church on Sunday August 30, 2009 at 6:00 pm.

Several groups will be praising the Lord here in song, giving testimony to His goodness and faithfulness. Come share this time with them. There will be a fellowship time afterward. Please bring your favorite desserts.

Prayer for New School Year

There will be a prayer service for the benefit of the staff and students of the Greenville School district and Keystone Charter School on Tuesday August 25, 2009 beginning at 6:00 pm. The service will start in front of the Hempfield School (Fredonia Road), then participants will travel by the own transportation to the Greenville High School (Donation Road), East Elementary (Columbia Avenue), and finish the service at the Keystone Elementary Center (South Good Hope Road). All members of the community interested in participating are welcome to attend. Questions can be addressed to April Knierman.

Sunday School Planning Meeting

A planning meeting for the Sunday School program will be held Thursday August 20, 2009 at 7:00 pm. All who are interested in teaching children, young people, or adults, please plan on attending. We are in need of teachers. Any questions can be directed to Lorretta Ball.

Mission Report from The Good Shepherd Center

We want to acknowledge your congregation's support throughout the year to The Good Shepherd Center. Although we do not sent out a monthly thank you, we are most grateful to you and do not ever take you for granted. Typically, most folks think about us at the holidays, and we are thankful for that, of course, but we are now feeding over 350 households monthly. Your regularly given gifts make it possible for us to continue to offer support to the growing number of individuals who need our assistance. This has been a challenging year for us due to plant closings and lay-offs, the uncertain local and national economy, and theft of our safe which contained our operating money, gift cards, titles and valuables that had to be replaced. Most recently, due to the impasse of Pennsylvania's representatives to pass a budget, many state workers are contacting us for assistance to get by until they begin receiving pay checks again. These challenges are not necessarily unique to us; most food pantries are finding it more difficult to meet needs. We are blessed as God continues to provide for this ministry through your help. Your support is a witness to many in our community that others care and are concerned for them.
Mary Ann Reeher, Executive Director of The Good Shepherd Center in Greenville.

August Women's Ministry Meeting

All women of the congregation are invited to the Women's Ministry evening on Tuesday August 11, 2009 at 7:00 pm. The fun will be hosted by Margie Haller and Nita Murrin at the church.

Have You Ever Gone on the Monthly Rescue Mission Trip?

Did you know that the first Wednesday of every month a group travels from our church to the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley in Youngstown, OH? They go to help serve a meal, minister to, and fellowship with those in need. The van leaves the church at 4:25 pm and seating is limited so a signup sheet is available. Contact Fred Switzer for more details.

This month we are taking watermelons for the dessert. If you can supply one, please see Fran Wilkin.

Ladies Aid Annual Family Picnic

The Ladies Aid group is having their annual family picnic at Hempfield Park, Pavilion #3 on Wednesday August 5, 2009 at 1:00 pm. All Ladies Aid members, social members, and their families are invited.

3rd 2009 Summer Fellowship Gathering Coming August 9

The 3rd Summer Fellowship Gathering of the year will be hosted by the Keeleys on Sunday August 9, 2009 at the church. We will eat at 5:00 p.m. Please bring a dish of food to share for our meal. Drinks will be provided. After the meal, Pete will present a slide show and Bible study which will focus on the awesomeness of God and the uniqueness of Christ.

Family Bible School Almost Here!

This summer we are having a unique Bible School program aimed at entire families. On the evenings of August 3 to 7, 2009 from 6:30-8:30 pm there will be activities, lessons, crafts, games, and snacks geared for family groups. Even if you do not have young children, we have something for you, too. Why should the kids have all the fun? Get the word out for this special event!

There will be a very important meeting on Sunday August 2, 2009 from 2:00-4:00 pm for all volunteers involved with the program.

Quarterly Congregational Meeting Scheduled

The next quarterly congregational meeting will be held Thursday July 30, 2009 at 7:00 pm. This is an important function and privilege we have as members of Crossroads. Agenda packets will be available Sunday July 26, 2009 at the church.

2nd Summer Fellowship Gathering on Calendar

A summer fellowship gathering will be hosted by the Haller's at the church on Sunday July 26, 2009 at 4:00 pm. Come enjoy an evening of worship music, food, and fellowship. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be provided. Please bring a favorite dish to share.

We Are Updating the Prayer Chain Caller List

We need to update our prayer chain caller list. If you would like to be included as one to receive and/or pass along emergency prayer requests, please contact Sue Preston at the church office and leave your name and phone number. If you are already on the list but want removed, please notify the office.

Prayer Request List Available Weekly

A praying church is a healthy church. A weekly prayer list is available at the church that lists our current concerns and needs.

1st Summer Fellowship Gathering Scheduled

The first summer fellowship gathering of 2009 will be held Sunday July 19, 2009 at the Jaussen's home. The fun starts at 3:00 pm with dinner at 5:00 pm. Please bring a pot of food, your swimsuit, a lawn chair, and a Bible. We will be discussing the topic: What do I do when my spiritual fire is low? These fellowship times are to increase our closeness and relationships as the family of God.

2010 Mission Trip Planned

We are already planning a mission trip for 2010. The Missions Committee has decided upon March 2010 for another trip to the Dominican Republic. Now is the time to start thinking about going. See a committee member if you are interested or have any questions.

Some financing is available for the participants. Don't let finances hold you back from going.

Check out the pictures from this year's trip on the Crossroads Gallery site.

Digging Deeper

"Digging Deeper" is what we do during the summer for the adult Sunday School hour. We discuss the sermon and dig deeper into the Bible, going beyond what is preached during the worship service. We invite all to stay and dig deeper into the Word of God with others.

Yard and Bake Sale

The Women's Ministry will be holding a Yard and Bake Sale Saturday July 18, 2009 at West Salem Grange Hall in Maysville from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Donations of unwanted household materials in good condition would be appreciated. No clothing will be accepted. Work day will be Friday. Contact Cyndi Sankey for more information.

Sound Witness in Concert

A concert by Sound Witness is scheduled for Sunday July 12, 2009 at 6:30 pm. They are a country, bluegrass, gospel music group proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ in song. A time of fellowship will follow the concert.