If you’re in high school, you’ll definitely want to come to C-Groups at the Giroux’s house tomorrow (Google Map here) for a very significant and important announcement about the high school ministry this year. I’m sure you’ll all be very excited when you hear it and you’ll definitely want to be the first to know so you can ask questions and hear more about something exciting that’s happening. Invite your high school friends and we’ll see you there tomorrow! Outdoor sand volleyball starts around 5:00 or 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 6:30 p.m., and Bible study starts at 7:00 p.m.

While it’s not required, please plan to bring a dish to share for the potluck dinner if possible. Thanks!

Annual Student Ministry Meeting this Sunday

There’s been some confusion about the starting time of this meeting. We’re going with the time that was printed on the summer schedule at the beginning of the summer: 6:00 PM.

There’s a lot of different connection points in our youth ministry here at Alexandria Covenant Church. This Sunday, August 29, we have a big meeting where we go over everything that’s happening this upcoming school year with the youth group. We’ll introduce you to events and programs, explain how things work, and share what’s changing. This is a very important meeting and we highly encourage all students and parents to attend. It starts at 6:00 PM.

Movie night at the Schmoyer’s on Thursday

All 7th-12th graders are invited to hang out at the Schmoyer’s house this Thursday to see the movie, “Letters To God,” as voted on by the students. It starts at 9:00 PM! Bring a lawn chair, bug spray, snacks and a couple friends!

Watch this brief video to learn more about what makes Movie Night at the Schmoyer’s unique:

Join our prayer team!

This year we are making prayer a primary value of our ministry, not just bookends we use to open and close meetings. It’s permeating almost every aspect of our ministry and will continue to grow as we move forward throughout the school year.

Chanda Winkels is forming a team of adults, parents, and students who will gather together to pray for our ministry, our community, students, leaders, schools, and more. They’re meeting in the Prayer Room at church on a weekly basis at these times:

• 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month: 6:30-8:00 p.m., starting September 8
• 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month: 6:4-7:45 a.m., starting September 15

If you’d like to join the prayer team either in the evenings, mornings, or both, contact Chanda Winkels at jcwinkels@yahoo.com or 320-766-8010.

If you missed the initial Haiti meeting two weeks ago, contact the church office for the handout with all the information on it. However, if you’re interested in going, the initial $470 is due this Friday, August 20, if you haven’t gone before. For those who want to go back to Haiti with us and people from outside our church body, your deadline is August 30 for the $470. The remainder of the cost for airfare is due September 17 (whatever that works out to be). The actual trip dates are October 16-23.

Baptism time change

The baptism on Lake Burgen this Sunday is now at 4:00 PM. If you’d like to learn more about baptism and talk about possibly being baptized yourself, contact Pastor John at the church or by emailing him at jlevahn@alexandriacovenant.org. Come out and support everyone and bring a dinner to eat at the picnic afterwards! It’s at the Martinson’s house at 2155 S. Burgen Drive SE in Alexandria (Google Map here).

Parent Dinner this week

Our final open parent dinner at the Schmoyer’s house (Google Map here) this Thursday, August 19. We know that parents are the most spiritually influential person in the spiritual growth of your teenagers, so we want to have a relaxed conversation around dinner about how we can link arms and support each other. Sign up by calling the church office. If you can bring a drink, salad, desert, or main dish to share, that would be helpful, too.

Movie Night next week

Remember Movie Night at the Schmoyer’s house next Thursday, August 26, at 9:00 PM. We setup the big screen on the outside of the house and sit in the driveway to watch a movie. The movie is TBD, but we’re thinking about showing the movie, To Save A Life. Any votes or opinions, contact Tim via text message, Facebook, phone call, or whatever else works for you.

Annual Youth Ministry Meeting

There’s a lot of different connection points in our youth ministry here at Alexandria Covenant Church. On Sunday, August 29, we have a big meeting where we go over everything that’s happening this upcoming school year with the youth group. We’ll introduce you to events and programs, explain how things work, and share what’s changing. This is a very important meeting and we highly encourage all students and parents to attend. It starts at 6:30 PM.

Journey Registration Night

REGISTRATION: Wednesday, September 8, is registration night for 7th and 8th graders who wish to participate in The Journey, our confirmation/discipleship small groups for jr highers on Wednesday nights. Registration happens at church from 6:30 to 7:30 PM in the foyer area outside the Worship Center. The cost is $20/person, which covers the student’s journal and Bible. If you are unable to come to church to register at that time, you can stop by the church office before then to register.

LAUNCH: Wednesday, September 15, The Journey starts at 6:30 PM in the gym at church.

There’s a lot of different connection points in our youth ministry here at Alexandria Covenant Church. On Sunday, August 29, we have a big meeting where we go over everything that’s happening this upcoming school year with the youth group. We’ll introduce you to events and programs, explain how things work, and share what’s changing. This is a very important meeting and we highly encourage all students and parents to attend. It starts at 6:30 PM.

Fall Ministry Dates

With the school year around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about this next year of fall ministry here at the church. Here are the important dates you should have on your calendar.

Sunday Mornings
Sunday school starts on Sunday, September 12! We’re excited to start digging into the Word with you all! Jr high Sunday school is in room 130 at 9:00 AM and Sr. High Cafe is in the Beacon (the white building behind the church) at the same time.

Sr. High Impact
Sr. High Impact, our large-group meeting, also starts on Sunday, September 12, at 6:30 PM at church. Come enjoy a time of worship, games, teaching and discussions!

The Journey
REGISTRATION: Wednesday, September 8, is registration night for 7th and 8th graders who wish to participate in The Journey, our confirmation/discipleship small groups for jr highers on Wednesday nights. Registration happens at church from 6:30 to 7:30 PM in the foyer area outside the Worship Center. The cost is $20/person, which covers the student’s journal and Bible. If you are unable to come to church to register at that time, you can stop by the church office before then to register.

LAUNCH: Wednesday, September 15, The Journey starts at 6:30 PM in the gym at church.

C-Groups
There is no registration for our 9th-12th grade small groups. Students are free to show up when C-Groups start on Wednesday, September 15, at the Giroux’s house (Google Map here) or the Carlson’s house (Google Map here). The Monday night C-Group is no longer at the Hurlbut’s house. Instead, they’re meeting at the Winkels’ house (Google Map here) starting September. C-Groups start at 6:30 PM.

Baptism service

We’re having a baptismal service on Sunday, August 22, at Lake Burgen. If you’re interested in being baptized, contact Pastor John LeVahn by calling the church or email him at jlevahn@alexandriacovenant.org. He’ll talk with you about it a little and will get you signed up.

Parent dinner next Thursday

Our final open parent dinner at the Schmoyer’s house in on Thursday, August 19. We know that parents are the most spiritually influential person in the spiritual growth of your teenagers, so we want to have a relaxed conversation around dinner about how we can link arms and support each other. Sign up by calling the church office. If you can bring a drink, salad, desert, or main dish to share, that would be helpful, too.

Movie Night

Remember Movie Night at the Schmoyer’s on Thursday, August 26, at 9:00 PM. We setup the big screen on the outside of the house and sit in the driveway to watch a movie. The movie is TBD, but make sure this time is on your calendar.

We’re been working on nailing down some details for the next Haiti trip taking place in October and now we are ready to share them! If you’re interested in going to Haiti, come to our informational meeting this Tuesday, August 10, at 6:30 PM. We’ll meet in room 114 at church and will share a little bit about the trip, see who’s interested in going, and answer any questions you have.

C-Groups tomorrow

If you’re in 9th-12th grade and haven’t checked out C-Groups yet, go to the Giroux’s house this Wednesday (Google Map here). Play sand volleyball at 5:30 PM, have dinner together at 6:30 PM, and Bible study starts at 7:00 PM. All meals this summer are potluck, so bring something to share!

Soul Fuel this Thursday

Soul Fuel Bible study for 7th and 8th graders is this Thursday at the Schmoyer’s house (Google Map here). It starts at 6:30 PM and you can plan to be picked up at 8:30 PM. Bring a Bible and wear clothes you can run around in.

MUUUCE details reminder

If you’re signed up for MUUUCE, remember that we’re meeting at the church at 1:00 PM on Thursday.

What to bring:

• Bible
• Sleeping bag, pillow, (pad is optional)
• Swimsuit (1-piece only)
• Towel/small bag
• Toiletries/Sunscreen
• Clothes for each day
• Shoes and comfortable sandals
• Sunglasses
• Money for anything you want at Valleyfair and other activities

IMPORTANT: We’ll be stopping for dinner on the way down there and stopping for lunch on the way home, so bring some money for dinner and lunch.

Baptism service

We’re having a baptismal service on Sunday, August 22, at Lake Burgen. If you’re interested in being baptized, contact Pastor John LeVahn by calling the church or email him at jlevahn@alexandriacovenant.org. He’ll talk with you about it a little and will get you signed up.

Parent dinner on Aug 19

Our final open parent dinner at the Schmoyer’s house in on Thursday, August 19. We know that parents are the most spiritually influential person in the spiritual growth of your teenagers, so we want to have a relaxed conversation around dinner about how we can link arms and support each other. Sign up by calling the church office. If you can bring a drink, salad, desert, or main dish to share, that would be helpful, too.

Movie Night

Remember Movie Night at the Schmoyer’s on Thursday, August 26, at 9:00 PM. We setup the big screen on the outside of the house and sit in the driveway to watch a movie. The movie is TBD, but make sure this time is on your calendar.

Pictures and video from our Sr High Canoe Trip

We had a great time (mostly!) on the Crow Wing River last Sunday! Besides some thunder and lightening that forced us off the water for a while to be eaten my mosquitos, it was a good trip!

Here are pictures and video of our time. Check them out!

If you’re in 9th-12th grade, our annual canoe trip is coming up for you this Sunday! Call the church by Friday at 4:00 PM to RSVP. Cost is $25/person. Pack a lunch to eat when we arrive at Crow Wing River and bring extra cash for dinner on the way home. We leave the church at 9:30 AM and will return around 6:00 or 7:00 pm.

Mexico Missions Trip Video

Got the highlight video from our Mexico missions trip finished! Here it is:

Pictures are on our church’s Facebook page here.

Sorry to crash this on you jr high families last-minute. The paperwork was accidentally set aside in the midst of Haiti, Mexico and summer planning, so we’re just getting this out to you now. Our apologies.

For all incoming 7th-9th graders who want to attend MUUUCE (“The Most Unbelievable, Ultimate, Urban, Camping, Experience”), here’s the info you need.

• Dates: August 12-14
• Where: Faith Covenant Church in Burnsville, MN
• What: A weekend packed with fun, games, Valleyfair, baseball game, CHAOS, and more!
• Cost: $85/person (includes lodging, food, Valleyfair and baseball game)

To Register: Visit the church office or the youth kiosk and pickup a registration form. Fill it out and turn it in with a check for $85, payable to Alexandria Covenant Church. If you need financial assistance, please let us know. We’re more interested in having your student attend than we are in your money.

Important: We need parents who are available to help drive us down to Burnsville on August 12th and also pick us up on August 14. Please let Ruth Nelson know if you’re available to help with transportation! Contact Ruth Nelson in the church office at ruthn@alexandriacovenant.org or call 320-763-5659.

DEADLINE: Registration forms and money must be turned in to the church office by Monday, July 19!

Check out the MUUUCE website!

This Sunday is the Jr. High Canoe Trip! If you’re in 7th or 8th grade and you haven’t signed up yet, you need to do so by Friday!

We will leave the church at 9:30 PM. It costs $25 a person. Girls must wear a one-piece bathing suit. Pack your lunch to eat at the canoe rental place on Crow Wing River, and bring some money to stop for dinner on the way home.

WEATHER: Right now the weather forecast is calling for thunderstorms on Sunday. If the trip is canceled, each person will receive a refund for the trip.

Sign-up by turning in your check to the church office, payable to Alexandria Covenant Church.

Parent dinners

We know the parents are the most spiritually influential people in the lives of teenagers, so we want to partner with you! Parent, sign-up for a dinner at the Schmoyer’s house to discuss how the youth ministry can partner with you in helping your teens grow in their faith. The first one is this Monday, July 12, and the second one is Thursday, August 19.

Sign-up by calling the church. If you can bring a dinner item to share, that would be great, too. Let the church office know what you’re bringing so we can plan accordingly. Thanks!

Soul Fuel for 7th-8th graders

Soul Fuel is this Thursday, July 8, at the Schmoyer’s house (Google Map here). It starts at 6:30 PM and you can plan to be picked up at 8:30 PM. Bring a Bible and wear clothes you can run around in.

Potluck dinners for C-Groups

G-Groups are on Wednesdays at the Giroux’s house (Google Map here) for 9th-12th graders. Come to play sand volleyball at 6:00 PM, have dinner together at 6:30 PM, and Bible study starts at 7:00 PM. All meals this summer are potluck, so bring something to share!

Download the Summer Schedule

You can download the Summer 2010 youth group schedule here. It explains what’s going on this summer, how you can stay up-to-date, a description of what the events are, and more. You’ll definitely want to print this out and keep it handy all summer. Or, pick up a printed copy from the youth kiosk at church.

The first Soul Fuel Bible study for jr highers starts tonight at the Schmoyer’s house (Google Map here). It starts at 6:30 PM and you can plan to be picked up at 8:30 PM. Bring a Bible and wear clothes you can run around in.

After tonight, the next Soul Fuel is on Thursday, July 8.

Wake ‘n Ski this Sunday

Our first Wake ‘n Ski for the summer starts this Sunday at the Holm’s house at 1418 Firemens Lodge Rd SW in Alexandria (Google Map here). It starts at 2:00 PM and will end at 6:00. Dinner is included free!

If you’ve never water skied or wakeboarded before, come and learn how in the beginner’s boat. Or, if you’re an expert, enjoy the more advanced boat. Whatever your skill level, you’ll have a good time. Bring a friend!

NOTE: Girls are expected to wear a one-piece swimsuit, or wear a dark shirt over a two-piece suit. Thanks.

Canoe Trips

Sign-ups are now available for the canoe trips. The Jr. High canoe trip is on Sunday, July 11, and the Sr. High canoe trip is on Sunday, August 1. Each group will leave the church at 9:30 PM. It costs $25 a person. Girls must wear a one-piece bathing suit. Pack your lunch to eat at the canoe rental place on Crow Wing River, and bring some money to stop for dinner on the way home.

Sign-up by turning in your check to the church office, payable to Alexandria Covenant Church.

Parent dinners

We know the parents are the most spiritually influential people in the lives of teenagers, so we want to partner with you! Parent, sign-up for a dinner at the Schmoyer’s house to discuss how the youth ministry can partner with you in helping your teens grow in their faith. The first one is Monday, July 12, and the second one is Thursday, August 19.

Sign-up by calling the church. If you can bring a dinner item to share, that would be great, too. Let the church office know what you’re bringing so we can plan accordingly. Thanks!

Potluck dinners for C-Groups

G-Groups are on Wednesdays at the Giroux’s house (Google Map here) for 9th-12th graders. Come to play sand volleyball at 6:00 PM, have dinner together at 6:30 PM, and Bible study starts at 7:00 PM. All meals this summer are potluck, so bring something to share!

Download the Summer Schedule

You can download the Summer 2010 youth group schedule here. It explains what’s going on this summer, how you can stay up-to-date, a description of what the events are, and more. You’ll definitely want to print this out and keep it handy all summer. Or, pick up a printed copy from the youth kiosk at church.

G-Groups start again this Wednesday at the Giroux’s house (Google Map here). Come to play sand volleyball at 6:00 PM, have dinner together at 6:30 PM, and Bible study starts at 7:00 PM. This week Leesa Lee will lead the discussion.

Soul Fuel for 7th-8th graders

The first Soul Fuel Bible study for jr highers starts on Thursday, June 24, at the Schmoyer’s house (Google Map here). It starts at 6:30 PM and you can plan to be picked up at 8:30 PM. Bring a Bible and wear clothes you can run around in.

Canoe Trips

Sign-ups are now available for the canoe trips. The Jr. High canoe trip is on Sunday, July 11, and the Sr. High canoe trip is on Sunday, August 1. Each group will leave the church at 9:30 PM. It costs $25 a person. Girls must wear a one-piece bathing suit. Pack your lunch to eat at the canoe rental place on Crow Wing River, and bring some money to stop for dinner on the way home.

Sign-up by turning in your check to the church office, payable to Alexandria Covenant Church.

Parent dinners

We know the parents are the most spiritually influential people in the lives of teenagers, so we want to partner with you! Parent, sign-up for a dinner at the Schmoyer’s house to discuss how the youth ministry can partner with you in helping your teens grow in their faith. The first one is Monday, July 12, and the second one is Thursday, August 19.

Sign-up by calling the church. If you can bring a dinner item to share, that would be great, too. Let the church office know what you’re bringing so we can plan accordingly. Thanks!

Download the Summer Schedule

You can download the Summer 2010 youth group schedule here. It explains what’s going on this summer, how you can stay up-to-date, a description of what the events are, and more. You’ll definitely want to print this out and keep it handy all summer. Or, pick up a printed copy from the youth kiosk at church.

Tonight, Tuesday, June 1, at 7:00 PM at church the Haiti team will give a report about our trip last month. We’ll share stories, show pictures and videos and tell about the amazing things God did to and through us.

We’ll also introduce our next trip back to Haiti this fall. If you’re interested in going with us, please attend tonight to hear about it and get the preliminary information so you can start planning accordingly.

C-Group canceled for the next 2 weeks

You can download the Summer 2010 youth group schedule here. It explains what’s going on this summer, how you can stay up-to-date, a description of what the events are, and more. You’ll definitely want to print this out and keep it handy all summer. Or, pick up a printed copy from the youth kiosk at church.

UPDATE: C-Groups at the Giroux’s are canceled for June 2 and June 9. The next C-Group will resume on Wednesday, June 16.