the arrival

2020 disturbed and up-ended the status quo for many of us. You might be coming to Christmas a little bruised, broken and exhausted and unsure of what you have to give. Jesus invites us to be part of the unexpected! 


The Arrival is unexpected. “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.” (John 20:14) As followers of Jesus, we get to be part of His mission to transform neighborhoods from Battle Ground, WA to Xevitz, Guatemala with hope, health and peace. We invite you to celebrate the birth of Jesus by redirecting some of your Christmas spending to those in need around the world. The point of giving is not to offer handouts, but to be part of the mission of Jesus to move others towards sustainable health and wholeness. 


Find The Arrival 2020 Booklet Here


Gather Growing up, my family gathered to sing a song and light candles in the weeks leading up to Christmas. You can place your Arrival Advent wreath (kits available at church on starting November 29) at the center of your table or in a place where you can enjoy its light! Invite your children to gather for a moment of peace, in the midst of busy holiday schedules. If you are single, invite a friend to join you or simply enjoy quiet reflection with Jesus. Light the candles (add one each week) and sing a Christmas carol to welcome His Arrival. 


Grow Read the scriptures for each day slowly and really listen. Use the questions for reflection, and use the activity to bring what we're learning to life. Pray and ask God to expand your heart with compassion for the most needy people in this world that God so loved.

 

Give Our family loves to give and receive meaningful gifts. Does yours? There can be significant demands on our financial resources at Christmas, but we want to challenge you to join us by redirecting some of your Christmas spending to provide for the needs of the most vulnerable people around the world. Each Sunday will include an opportunity to give toward the needs of the hungry and hopeless. Over the years, we've watched our kids hear the Lord with us and respond generously with Christmas giving. We want to increase Christmas together. 


Go "Go into all the world..." (Matthew 28:28) Jesus invites us to take the GOOD news across the street and around the world. Even if we can't travel far this fall, our gifts and love carry the good news to a family in Battle Ground needing practical help, to another family in Mexico who is awaiting help to build their first home, and refugees from Venezuela who need shoes to walk to a better life. Let's reach beyond our comfort zone to offer hope and help in Jesus' name. 


The Arrival changes everything. Our December worship will culminate with a shared Christmas offering on December 20. 100% of this offering will be dedicated to our organizational partners outside our doors. 


With hope, Pastors Rick and Elizabeth


The Arrival giving



Our family loves to give and receive meaningful gifts. Does yours? There can
be significant demands on our financial resources at Christmas, but we want to
challenge you to join us by redirecting some of your Christmas spending to provide
for the needs of the most vulnerable people around the world. Each Sunday will
include an opportunity to give toward the needs of the hungry and hopeless. Over
the years, we’ve watched our kids hear the Lord with us and respond generously
with Christmas giving. We want to increase Christmas together.


Rick and Elizabeth Sawczuk


Click here to give online!