Getting To Know Us: Dustin Erhardt

How/why do you serve at Sunset?

I haven't been coming to Sunset for very long, but I love the sense of community and raw faith I've seen demonstrated here. I've been blessed get to play my guitar and sing on the stage, and I hope to find some other ways to serve too.

One thing you want to accomplish in the next 10 years.

I'd love to be able to continue songwriting and playing, and help others do the same.

What are you passionate about and why?

I'm passionate about worship, especially when God's people come together. I believe that God uses our worship to get things done, just like He does with prayer.

Favorite vacation memory?

I haven't been on many exciting vacations per se, but I've done some traveling and met a lot of really great people. It's really cool to see fellow Christians from all over the country and be reminded that God's still working through us all.

What’s your “day job”?

I travel and play in a band called Sixteen Cities. We just finished our first national album, which will be in stores October 10th.

Ministry Update 7/10

From Jay

Goin’ all in
There’s an ARMY recruiting station close to my home, right by Blockbuster Video and a pizza joint. From time to time, I’ll see the guys with short haircuts and pressed suits going in there with a wide- eyed teenager about to sign a chunk of their life over to the military. There have been times in my life when I have had the fleeting thought: “That would be nice”. There is something in each of us that wants to go “all in” on something; to leave everything behind and commit solely to one purpose with no distraction.

Matthew 13:44-45:
44"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
45Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”

Today I ask myself, “Would I give up anything for Christ if He asked me to?” Would I give Him my iphone? My truck? Would I give Him my house? My job? Would I give Him my family? Would I give Him my friends? Do I realize the treasure I have in Christ? Do you? Are you “all in”?

Ask yourself right now if there is anything in your life that you think is more valuable or important than what you have in Christ. Do your actions show it?

“God, I don’t want you to have to take everything from me before I realize what I have in You is everything. But if that is what it takes, then God take it all.”


Prayer Challenge from Pastor Ron
I hope you all had a good celebration of Independence Day on July 4. We pulled out the barbecue, lit some fireworks with our family at our house, and then went to the spectacular Oak Hills Fireworks display along with many thousands of people from this community. The freedom we enjoy in our country deserves the celebration.

A week ago in my Sunday message I talked about the East Indian evangelist K. P. Yohannan's experience at his first American prayer meeting. He came to hear one of the most famous pastors in the United States preach. That Sunday the pastor told the people there were some things heavy on his heart and invited them to come pray at the midweek service. K .P. decided to attend. In India and other places around the world where Christians are persecuted prayer is the centerpiece in church life. Everyone comes to pray, and most people are on their knees before sun-up each morning.

K. P. came early anticipating a large crowd. When he got there, he was surprised to find the chapel empty. A few people wandered in at the prescribed time of 7:30 pm. Forty-five minutes later an elderly man, not the pastor, walked in to lead the meeting. He made a few devotional remarks and closed in prayer. As the seven attenders filed out, Yohannan sat there in stunned silence. Is that it? Where was the pastor who had a burden?

Most American churches are not known for prayer. Prayer is rather far down the list of our priorities. So I invited people to stay and pray with me after each morning service a week ago. I am so grateful for all who stayed. About 100 joined me after each service. During the Sunday evening service I made the prayer time part of the service, so in a sense I made them stay and pray with me. It meant so much to me to see people praying for the president, our economy, our marriages, and our church. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 God says, If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." This was a promise to the people of Old Testament Israel. It is still a promise that is relevant to us today. God tells us if we humble ourselves and turn from our sins and pray, he will answer our prayers. He will heal our churches and our nation.

I encourage you to make prayer a centerpiece in your life. Begin your prayers with praise, confess your sins, pray for leaders in our country, and pray for leaders in our church. Pray for your family members. Pray for people you want to come to know Christ. Pray through all the details of your day.

This Sunday my message is titled "Caring For Our Cities". Often Christians are seen as people who do not care about their cities. The cities in our Portland metro area have so many needs. We can make a difference by meeting some of those needs. This is one of those messages when I felt as though the words just came to me from God as I wrote them. I hope to see you this Sunday.

Pastor Ron


Opportunities To Serve

Christmas In July
It’s finally summer in Oregon, but it’s Christmastime at Sunset! In order to keep our costs down for our annual Food and Toy Drive in December we are celebrating Christmas in July.
Everyone can play a part in this amazing ministry by bringing either canned food (see list below) or toys and gift cards (see list below) to church any Sunday in July and drop them off at the Food and Toy collection points (Courtyard and just outside the East Entrance).
Please plan now to bring your donations on July 12th, 19th or 26th.

Food Donations
Spaghetti Sauce (26oz)
Peanut Butter (16oz)
Canned Fruit (15oz)
Applesauce (2#)
Cranberries – Sauce or Jelly (15oz)

Toy Donations
Approx. $15 retail value
No Stuffed Animals Please
Gift Cards (Target, Fred Meyer, Kohl’s…)
Movie Tickets
Art Kits

Worship Choir
We are looking for people who enjoy expressing their love for God through singing. Worship choir will sing again on July 26th and August 23rd. If you plan to sing on those dates, please attend rehearsal at 8pm in the Sanctuary on the Thursday before the Sunday’s listed. Interested but aren’t sure yet? Then contact Jill at jillhofer@sunsetpres.org for more information. All ages welcome.

Production/Tech Team Volunteers Needed!
We are looking for people to fill the following roles:
· Service Director
· Lighting
· Graphics
· FOH Camera Op Week
· Message Slide Designer

In addition we have a new volunteer role: Video production. We'd like to find some video editors in our midst. Are you or do you know someone who could do simple projects for us? (i.e. this week, we have white text (provided) on black screen and need someone to edit.) The level of the projects will depend on who we discover. The content is generally available a couple weeks in advance of the deadline. Ifyou have this skill or know someone at Sunset who does, please email me janetfraser@sunsetpres.org.


Upcoming Events

July 12, 19, 26 Christmas in July! Bring your donations for Food & Toy (details are above)
July 12-16 – Middle School Camp, click here for more info
Please pray for our middle school students and camp volunteers this week.
August will have a Back to School drive to collect school supplies for William Walker students
August 3-8 – High School Camp, click here for more info
August 18-23 – Kids Camp, click here for more info

The church truly is the hope of the world.
This year’s Leadership Summit (August 6-7) is being held locally at
Easthill Foursquare Church in Gresham. Because of our past involvement
in hosting the Summit, we’re given a special rate to attend this year.

Important! This rate is only to be used by members and
regular attenders of Sunset. If you’re bringing a friend you
can register him/her with your special code; otherwise,
it’s not for use outside of Sunset. This code allows you to
attend for a savings of $160. Our special rate is only $95.

This year’s faculty is again outstanding! This conference is geared for every adult in our church. You will once again be challenged to Lead Where You Are. There are sign-up sheets at the Book and Tape Counter in the Lobby or… register at www.willowcreek.com use our special discount code of: SD9SP to receive our special rate of $95 (Students $75). This rate expires 7/30/2009!

Getting To Know Us: April Curtright

April pictured here with fellow choir member Jilly Gossett and Choir Director Jilly Hofer.

How/why do you serve at Sunset?
I'm in the choir, I occasionally do special media projects, have done data entry, and generally just hang around a lot helping where I can.

Why do you serve?

Because I love and believe in the ministry of Sunset, especially the Worship & Creative Arts team. I love the PEOPLE on W&CA, they have become my family. I love serving next to them to bring glory to God. Choir is the most important area of service for me. Those people mean the world to me. I love singing and have learned so much from Jill's leadership and her love of people and music.

When you have a day to spend any way you want, how do you choose to spend it?

With people I love. God has blessed me with some pretty amazing friends, and nothing makes me happier than spending time with them...doesn't matter what we're doing as long as we're together.

What’s your favorite time of day and why?
On just a regular day, probably early morning because that's generally when I have my time with God and do some writing.

Current top 10 songs on your playlist?
It's hard to choose just 10...
You Are Everything by Matthew West
Don't Get Comfortable by Brandon Heath
Every Time I Breathe by Big Daddy Weave
How Would I Know by Kathy Troccoli
Only Hope by Jill Hofer & Nikki
He Reigns by Women of Faith Worship Team Rebirthing by Skillet Hold Me Jesus by Big Daddy Weave That's How Much I Love You by Kathy Troccoli Made to Worship by Chris Tomlin

July 5th Worship Gatherings

The NINE
Welcome/Announcements: Barb Feil
Transition to worship: Jill Hofer
Song: Holy Holy Holy (Hymn)
Song: Holy Holy Holy
Transition: Jill
Song: Sanctuary
Song: Sing Of Your Great Love
Pastoral Prayer: Jill
Offertory: Special: Everything
Song: What The Lord Has Done In Me
Message: Living Out Our Faith: Barb
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Barb

the eleventh hour
Welcome: Jay McKenney
Song: You Hold Me Now
Song: Stronger
Song: Let God Arise
Song: You Are Here (The Same Power)
Pastoral Prayer: Jay
Offertory: Special: Everything
Song: From The Inside Out
Family Business: Barb
Message: Living Out Our Faith: Barb
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Barb

TheGathering at6pm
Welcome/Announcements: Barb
Song: Song of Hope
Song: Stronger
Song: Live To Worship
Song: From The Inside Out
Pastoral Prayer
Family Business
Offertory: Song: tbd
Discussion Time: Barb
Message: Living Out Our Faith: Barb
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Barb

Worship News 7/3

From Jay

EVERYTHING
We are doing a song this week in church by Tim Hughes called Everything.

God in my living, There in my breathing, God in my waking, God in my sleeping,
God in my resting, There in my working, God in my thinking God in my speaking.

I can’t honestly say that right now God is not my Everything, He’s just part of my life. As you continue to read these lyrics, ask yourself where your day to day life fits in with what’s written here:

God in my hoping, There in my dreaming, God in my watching, God in my waiting,
God in my laughing, There in my weeping, God in my hurting, God in my healing


Am I alone in the realization that there are many times I can’t say that?


The truth is, more often than not for me, many things on that list don’t include God in the equation. So for me, when I hear a song with the lyrics like this one, it comes with a sense of longing… it comes with a sense of regret… longing and regret for the things in my life that I know I’m allowing that make him not my Everything. They’re not horrible things or things I couldn’t justify to anyone effectively. But there are things that have taken His place… things I know on a heart level, a level that’s down in the places of my soul that only Christ can truly read accurately.

But this song also gives me a tremendous sense of hope. I am still sucking oxygen, I’m not dead yet, I can still make Christ my Everything, because His Spirit is in me. I could still go there with my life.

Christ in me, Christ in me, Christ in me, the Hope of Glory
You are everything, Christ in me, Christ in me


Sometimes I get stuck in Romans 7 and forget about Romans 8 :)
Romans 7 says -
14b“The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. 15aI don’t really understand
myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.
18And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is
right, but I can’t. 19I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong,
but I do it anyway.” (NLT)

There are some days I cry out to God saying “I don’t even know what that would really look like Lord, for You to be my everything.” What I do know is that I want it before Heaven; I want to be able to look into His eyes through the eyes of my soul, and know that He has truly become my Everything.


Romans 8 tells me it’s possible. I believe it’s possible; otherwise, we should just all go home, forget the battle, and settle for a loss till Christ returns.
1So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2And because you
belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads
to death. 3The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful
nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies
we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his
Son as a sacrifice for our sins.
5Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are
controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6So letting your sinful
nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life
and peace. 7For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it
never will. 8That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never
please God.
9But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have
the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ
living in them do not belong to him at all.) 10And Christ lives within you, so even though your
body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with
God. 11The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.


Christ in me, the Hope of Glory, Be my everything
Be my everything, Be my everything, Be my everything, Be my everything


Here is a link to the song if you want to listen to it: Everything

News & Views by Pastor Ron
Dear Congregation:


It is with regret that I report Eric Venable's final day of employment as Minister of Students & Families was Tuesday, June 30. We had high hopes for Eric when he began August 18, 2008, which makes his departure disappointing.

So, what's next? In our effort to closely manage our expenses we have no plans at this time to fill this position. Mike Giering will take leadership of the College Ministry and will help us hire a part-time person to work with this ministry. Mike will continue to be the Director of High School. Kurt Brandemihl will continue as our Director of Middle School. We have complete confidence in Mike and Kurt. Both will report directly to me. Beth Werner will assume the responsibility for Family Ministry. John Franklin and Mike Matousek, current members of the preaching team, will assume Eric's vacated preaching assignments.

As difficult as staff changes are, I believe God is sovereign. I believe God is in control and leading us in the way that he knows is best. Jesus Christ is Lord of Sunset Presbyterian Church and will continue to fulfill his promise to build his church.

Last Sunday I talked about the importance of prayer. We need your prayers now. Satan loves to take difficult situations and stir up dissension in the church. Pray for our church, our leadership, Eric and his future, and for me. And, this would be a great time for you to step forward to volunteer to help with middle school, high school, or college ministries.


This Sunday Barbara Feil will be speaking about living out our faith with a message from the book of Ezra. I'll see you there. And don't forget our new time for the Sunday evening service is 6:00 pm.

Pastor Ron

Christmas In July
It’s finally summer in Oregon, but it’s Christmastime at Sunset! In order to keep our costs down for our annual Food and Toy Drive in December we are celebrating Christmas in July!


Everyone can play a part in this amazing ministry by bringing either/or canned food (see list below) or toys and gift cards (see list below) to church any Sunday in July and drop them off at the Food and Toy collection points (Courtyard and just outside the East Entrance).


Christmas in July begins this Sunday, July 5th. If you are out of town this weekend, please plan now to bring your donations on July 12th, 19th or 26th.

Food Donations
Spaghetti Sauce (26oz)
Peanut Butter (16oz)
Canned Fruit (15oz)
Cranberries – Sauce or Jelly (15oz)

Toy Donations
Approx. $15 retail value
No Stuffed Animals Please
Gift Cards (Target, Fred Meyer, Kohl’s…)
Applesauce (2#) Movie Tickets
Art Kits

Our Cup of Joy ministry serves a delicious and nutritious meal to homeless in our community once a month. On Saturday, July 11th, Cup of Joy is hosting a barbecue for homeless men and women and families from JOIN, a county agency that helps homeless men, women and families into permanent housing. It will be held at Colonel Summers Park on SE 17th Ave and Taylor at 12 noon. Volunteers are needed to grill, bring side dishes, and to visit and love on our guests. You can sign up at the Seasons of Service counter on Sunday. Also, if you have a special talent such as juggling or magic tricks please let us know.


Opportunities To Serve

Worship Choir
We are looking for people who enjoy expressing their love for God through singing. Worship choir will sing again on July 26th and August 23rd. If you plan to sing on those dates, please attend rehearsal at 8pm in the Sanctuary on the Thursday before the Sunday’s listed. Interested but aren’t sure yet? Then contact Jill at jillhofer@sunsetpres.org for more information. All ages welcome.


SEASONS OF SERVICE
At Sunset we meet in a building on Cornell Road. But perhaps the truest expression of the church is when it goes outside the walls and becomes knee deep in community involvement. Seasons of Service is a cohesive strategy of community outreach that allows individuals, care groups, small groups, ministry teams and families to serve.


Sunset’s strategy of outreach focus’s our efforts in three areas:
· Serving our schools
· Serving the hungry and poor
· Ministering to the multi-ethnic


Seasons of Service is divided into spring, summer, and Fall/Winter serving opportunities. We are in the middle of our Summer Season of Service. Click here for more information about opportunities to serve. Click here to volunteer for a Seasons of Service event.


Production/Tech Team Volunteers Needed!
We are looking for people to fill the following roles:
Service Director
Lighting
Graphics
FOH Camera Op Week
Message Slide Designer

In addition we have a new volunteer role: Video production. We'd like to find some video editors in our midst. Are you or do you know someone who could do simple projects for us? (i.e. this week, we have white text (provided) on black screen and need someone to edit.) The level of the projects will depend on who we discover. The content is generally available a couple weeks in advance of the deadline. If you have this skill or know someone at Sunset who does, please email me janetfraser@sunsetpres.org.

Getting To Know Us: Debbie Hamelman

How/why do you serve here at Sunset?
I work on the tech crew, usually as stage manager, but I have actually run the lighting a couple of times and did the media shout once, and that was scary!! I also serve on the leadership team for the 50s/60s single group, I have worked at the Bike Fair for two years. I have been attending Sunset for about 5-6 years and just thought it was time to serve instead of observe, I used to belong to a Rotary Club and we did alot of service projects, they always make you feel good, it is better to serve others. So I guess I was missing that aspect of my life after I left the Club.

One random fact or accomplish?
I am a Nascar fan, a Jeff Gordon groupie. I have actually been to three races and had a great time, was lucky enough to get garage passes at two of the races and got to meet a lot of the drivers (including my Jeff!!)and get autographs. I was in seventh heaven all day, couldn't quit grinning...also, I used to race a 4-wheel drive truck myself years ago! I guess I like speed?

What made you interested in serving as a stage manager?
Long story, my friend Wayne Moore, one of the sound guys,suggested I meet Janet a couple of years ago, and I actually did at a BBQ at Wayne's house. I did a shadow of the Powerpoint stuff about that time, but for some reason, never pursued it. A couple of years go by, I see Janet in church, we chat, but nothing else, then I see all of these "first serve" opportunities, so I do another observe for the stage manager job and thought I could handle it ok, and here I am, loving it!! Nothing like getting to tell other people what to do, my mom training comes in very handy! So I guess it is all about God's timing and not mine....who knew? :-)

If you could go to the airport on a Friday night and fly anywhere for a week, where would you go and why?
I would go to Italy, I have been wanting to go there for years, it is beautiful and historic and just looks like a wonderful place to visit. Of course if I just wanted to go somewhere to relax it would be Maui!! I love it there.

What’s your “day job”?
I work for a small high tech company. I have been there for about 20 years! I am the Purchasing manager and I manage the manufacturing department as well. And anyone that works at a small company knows that you wear many other hats in a day than just the hat for your job title. Probably why I love my job so much, the people are honest, hard working and awesome, more like family than co-workers and the work is different every day. My favorite day job is when I get to spend the day (or any amount of time!) with my grandson Will. Being a grandma is just the most amazing priviledge and joy! And yes, he is the cutest, smartest and most incredible 2-year old around!

June 28th Gatherings

The NINE
Song: My Savior Lives
Song: You Never Let Go
Setup Theme: Jay McKenney
Song: Blessed Assurance
Family Business: Mike Matousek
Pastoral Prayer: Mike Matousek
Offertory: Special: I Still Believe
Message: Prayers That Claim God's Promises: Pastor Ron
Transition to Prayer & Healing
7 Promise Readers
Song: Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron

the eleventh hour
Song: Promise
Setup songs: Jay McKenney
Song: Healer
Song: Shout Unto God
Welcome & Greet: Jay
Family Business: Mike Matousek
Pastoral Prayer: Mike Matousek
Offertory: Special: I Still Believe
Message: Prayers That Claim God's Promises: Pastor Ron
Transition to Prayer & Healing
7 Promise Readers
Song: You Never Let Go
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron

TheGathering at6pm
Song: Song Of Hope
Song: You Are Here
Welcome & Announcements
Song: You Are Near
Prayer
Offertory: I Still Believe
Discussion Time
Offertory: Special: I Still Believe
Message: Prayers That Claim God's Promises: Pastor Ron
Transition to Prayer & Healing
7 Promise Readers
Song: You Never Let Go
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron

Worship News 6/26

From Jay

UNDIVIDED

I used to travel with a group of guys in a singing ministry, and I learned something about team over the years. I learned that in a team, one of the most important things is chemistry. The way that we relate to one another, the way we treat one another, the way we work through things, the way that we resolve conflict, handle disagreements, listen to one another and speak to one another, had a greater effect on our ministry than learning the right notes, or the right places to be, etc. When we were unified, our ministry and effectiveness and even our sound was dramatically different. When we weren’t right with each other, when we weren’t resolved our ministry suffered, and we weren’t as effective. You probably know this from teams you are on or serve in.

I think of the verse in Matthew 12 where Jesus said, 25"Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” (The context of this verse is when the Pharisees accused Jesus of using Satan’s power to perform His miracles.)

In much the same way a team needs to be unified to function well, and as individuals our hearts need to be undivided when it comes to our relationship with the Lord.

Exodus 20:3: "You shall have no other gods before Me." Here are some different translations of that same verse:

"You shall have no gods but me."
"You should not defy me by making other gods your own."
“You should have no other gods beside Me.”
"You shall have no gods to set against Me."

When I first came to know Christ, it felt way easier to have an undivided heart… it seemed more natural that Christ was all consuming. Today it seems harder; it’s increasingly harder for me to have an undivided heart. So many things pull at my heart; they vie for it… subtly and not so subtly. Good things and bad things are a constant threat trying to become god and make Christ only a piece of my heart.

Proverbs 4:20-23:
20 My son, pay attention to what I say;
listen closely to my words.
21 Do not let them out of your sight,
keep them within your heart;
22 for they are life to those who find them
and health to a man's whole body.
23 Above all else, guard your heart,
for it is the wellspring of life.

Guarding our heart is absolutely critical to keeping it undivided… and a team of undivided hearts is a powerful and effective witness to the love and hope we have in Christ.

Excerpt from News & Views by Pastor Ron

Financial Update
At our Session meeting last Thursday Jeff Peterson brought a report from the Finance Committee. I think you should hear this message directly from Jeff. Here’s what he has to say:

Dear Congregation:

I continue to be encouraged and humbled by God’s financial provisions for and from our church body. Many in our body have had severe financial hardships this year, and yet we are able to support our new level of spending after we have made so many financial sacrifices over the last year. At our last finance meeting we came to some conclusions which I would like to share with you.
· Given our current giving rate, for the 2009-2010 ministry year we are recommending a total budget number of no greater than $3.2 million from the operating fund (which is approximately 10% less than the 08-09 budget). We think that with a budget of $3.2 million we can fund ministry programs at the same level as this year.
· Our team believes that we should “treat our employees right”. We would love to restore benefits/wages/hours that were cut in March 2009. In order to achieve this, either giving will need to increase or more cuts will need to be made.
· We hope for some excess funds for this year and next year (which we have not really seen yet) which would allow us to build up our reserves for building maintenance and unforeseen expenses that may arise. We feel that extra funds in this area are critical to maintain our current property.
Although the giving has been good, and we are meeting our current budget, there is no indication that we can make any increases in our 2010 budget. If God has blessed you, and you are able to give more, we could really use your gifts at this time.

Sincerely,
Jeff Peterson, Elder of Finance

Don’t forget our Sunday evening service has changed to 6:00 pm.

Opportunities to Serve

Worship Choir
We are looking for people who enjoy expressing their love for God through singing. Worship choir will sing July 26th and August 23rd. If you plan to sing on those dates, please attend rehearsal at 8pm in the Sanctuary the Thursday before the Sunday’s listed. Interested but aren’t sure yet? Then contact Jill at jillhofer@sunsetpres.org for more information. All ages welcome.

SEASONS OF SERVICE
At Sunset we meet in a building on Cornell Road. But perhaps the truest expression of the church is when it goes outside the walls and becomes knee deep in community involvement. Seasons of Service is a cohesive strategy of community outreach that allows individuals, care groups, small groups, ministry teams and families to serve.
Sunset’s strategy of outreach focus’s our efforts in three areas:
· Serving our schools
· Serving the hungry and poor
· Ministering to the multi-ethnicSeasons of Service is divided into spring, summer, and Fall/Winter serving opportunities. We are kicking off our Summer Season of Service. Click here for more information about opportunities to serve. Click here to volunteer for a Seasons of Service event.

Safety at Sunset
One of the “holes” left after our recent layoffs is the need for a representative from W&CA on the Safety Team. We’d like to fill that hole with a volunteer. Safety on our campus is a responsibility of the Operations team, but they need input and support from all the other teams to handle the variety of needs at Sunset. Those needs range from maintaining a safe work environment for our staff to handling an emergency that might occur on our campus.

If you’re interested in representing W&CA and being a part of Sunset’s Safety Team, please contact Carrie at carriepeeples@sunsetpres.org. The Safety Team meets once a month on the fourth Thursday from 10 to 11am; however, they may be open to changing the time.

Production/Tech Team Volunteers Needed!
We are looking for people to fill the following roles:
· Service Director
· Lighting
· Graphics
· FOH Camera Op Week
· Message Slide Designer

In addition we have a new volunteer role: Video production. We'd like to find some video editors in our midst. Are you or do you know someone who could do simple projects for us? (i.e. this week, we have white text (provided) on black screen and need someone to edit.) The level of the projects will depend on who we discover. The content is generally available a couple weeks in advance of the deadline. If you have this skill or know someone at Sunset who does, please email me janetfraser@sunsetpres.org.

Upcoming Events
July 12-16 – Middle School Camp, click here for more info
August 3-8 – High School Camp, click here for more info
August 18-23 – Kids Camp, click here for more info

Getting To Know Us: Rhett Lee

Rhett featured here with his wife Erika and kids Caitlynn and Jackson.

How do you serve at Sunset?
I play drums for the Worship Team. I’ve also assisted at Sunday School and the kids’ choir.

What’s a recent project you were glad to complete?
Cleaning out 5 years of junk from the basement so our friends from Arizona (a family of 5) could stay with us and not be attacked by boxes.

If you were a motorized vehicle (car, bike, train, etc), what type would you be and why?
Top Fuel dragster – 8000 horsepower and 0-300+ mph in 4 seconds. Or Thomas the Tank Engine – because he’s Really Useful. It’s kind of a toss-up.

What’s your “day job”?
Technical Specialist at Nike’s Tiger Woods Center. A fancy title for “A/V technician.” Basically, what Travis does for Sunset, I do for Nike. In fact, I met Travis years ago when he would come in and do audio for big events.

Weekend Awards: by Jay McKenney

The following awards are real and recognized in Troutdale by me and certified by official electronic email transfer.

New guy award This one was tough, really tough. I think what made it so challenging is there were two new guys, Dustin and Steve. In the end it was a split decision.
Thanks to both of you for bringing it, and joining our team! Can’t wait to have you back.

Best drama/skit/sketch Even though this one was easy because there was only one, I have to say I was SO impressed with the how well you all acted!! Ben please have me over sometime to watch a football game. Loved your passion. You all put in some work not only memorizing but in your delivery, and it showed. And it really helped break up Ron’s sermon in a good way and keep people engaged. Nice work Daphne and Dania on that script.

Hardest on the equipment I keep wondering why this should be a reward, seems counter productive. This one goes to Dustin for almost breaking Ben’s record for pulling the aviom down. One more Dustin and you would share the title. But you will have to wait a while it looks like to get another chance at it. Maybe you can win it while you are on the road, keep us posted.

Best Janet impression This week goes to Carrie, who stepped her game up in a big way and did so many behind the scenes actions to keep things movin. Thank you Carrie.

Moron Moment Goes to me, for forgetting in the nine that I was supposed to release to welcome and greet not Ron, and basically looking like, a moron, immediately qualifying me for this prestigious honor and securing my victory.

Best sound during an offertory I actually got to sit in the congregation during May Our Praise. This one goes to Ryan Barmore. The mix from where I was sitting was like my favorite mix at Cold Stone. Half coffee ice cream, half cake batter, peanut butter, oreos, and fudge. Now transfer that to the mix I heard on the platform. It was that good. And now I have to go to Cold Stone. And relive that analogy. It will symbolize and honor and really bring authenticity to this award.

Special Mention goes to Laura VanderGiessen, Kristin Hopper, Travis, Chris Goodell, Ed Stillwell, Tyler Braun, Phil Van Dyke, The entire Kuskie Clan, Ushers, Debbie, Carolyn, and all the tech team. And my mom. It takes an army of people to do what we do each week. Thank you for making it such an awesome experience, and thank you for serving, you are appreciated more than you know. Have a great Monday.

Sincerely,
Jay

June 21st Worship Gatherings

The NINE
Prelude: piano
Song: All Creatures Of Our God And King
Song: Your Grace Is Enough
Welcome & Greet: Jay McKenney
Announcements: Pastor Ron
Message: God Answers Prayers Filled With Praise: Pastor Ron
Drama during message
Pastoral Prayer: Pastor Ron
Offertory: Special: May Our Praise
Transition to worship: Ron
Song: You're Worthy Of My Praise
Song: Praise To The Lord Almighty
Song: Worthy Is The Lamb (with prayers of praise on screen in middle)
Closing Announcements/Bendiction: Pastor Ron
Postlude

the eleventh hour
Prelude
Song: Your Grace Is Enough
Song: Song Of Hope
Welcome & Greet: Jay McKenney
Announcements: Pastor Ron
Message: God Answers Prayers Filled With Praise: Pastor Ron
Drama during message
Pastoral Prayer: Pastor Ron
Offertory: Special: May Our Praise
Transition to worship: Ron
Song: Live To Worship
Song: Our God Reigns
Song: O Praise Him (with prayers of praise on screen in middle)
Closing Announcements/Bendiction: Pastor Ron
Postlude

TheGathering at6pm
Song: Your Grace Is Enough
Song: Song Of Hope
Transition: Laura VanderGeissen
Message: God Answers Prayers Filled With Praise: Pastor Ron Open discussion
Offertory: Hallelujah
Song: Praise To The Lord Almighty
Song: You're Worthy Of My Praise.
Closing Announcements/Benedictin: Pastor Ron
Postlude

Worship News 6/19

From Jay

A Culture of Confession
My favorite moment in church ministry was April 5th of this year. During a few silent moments at the opening of Sunset's service, we had people anonymously write their personal confessions on a piece of paper. You might even remember what you wrote. We collected all these writings and selected a good amount of them to be read aloud during Communion.

It was a powerful moment to say the least.

I was one of the readers.

I remember reading confessions of ignoring God, marital unfaithfulness, lack of a desire to be at church, drug abuse, and many other confessions that were hard to read and even harder to say out loud.
----

Too often we allow church to be a place for people who have it all together. We put on nice clothes, and fake faces. When asked how we're doing we almost always say, "Doing pretty good." If church can't be a place for us to be real as a confessing community of sinners in need of grace, then I think we've missed the point. As this comes to mind, our mantra of "we choose to be real" also comes to my thoughts. What could that possibly mean?

In 1st Corinthians 2:2 Paul says, "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified."

Now obviously Paul teaches more than the cross (all you have to do is read some of 1&2 Thessalonians or 1&2 Timothy to see that), but he can't talk about all the other things without tying it back to the cross.

Paul's ultimate confession was always that he was the chief of all sinners: a man unworthy of God's grace, yet he was given it still. Nothing in Paul's ministry was done without a focus on the cross and its redemption for even those who are unworthy to touch it.

If a church can truly create a culture of confession it not only allows for grace to be poured out, but it also allows for the cross to take center stage. It is through confession that we experience the power of Jesus Christ and him crucified. Let's resolve to know nothing else.

An excerpt from News & Views by Pastor Ron

I will be giving my second message on prayer and will talk about the importance of praising God in prayer. I will dedicate this message to the men. I hope I’ll see you there. If you missed it, get the cd at the book & tape counter in the lobby.

Sunday Evening Service Time Change
Beginning this Sunday and continuing through September the Sunday evening service will be at 6:00 pm. This is your reminder that during the busy summer months when you may have activities or be out of town on Sunday morning, you can still attend our Sunday evening service at 6:00 pm in the gym. This service is more intimate, and we take time for questions about the sermon. It is a great opportunity for families to worship together. Check it out.

Bike Fair Success!!!
The Bike Fair on Saturday the 13th was a great success--660 guests including 360 children, 300 helmets given away, 90 bikes repaired and 78 bikes donated. Wow! These children were taught bicycle safety and had fun riding through the obstacle course. This was a great beginning to our Seasons of Service activities and provided a great opportunity to connect with our community. Thanks to all who volunteered their time and skills and to all those who donated bikes; many children were made very happy.

Opportunities To Serve

Worship Choir
We are looking for people who enjoy expressing their love for God through singing. Worship choir will sing June 28th, July 26th, and August 23rd. If you plan to sing on those dates, please attend rehearsal at 8pm in the Sanctuary the Thursday before the Sunday’s listed. Interested but aren’t sure yet? Then contact Jill at jillhofer@sunsetpres.org for more information. All ages welcome.

SEASONS OF SERVICE
At Sunset we meet in a building on Cornell Road. But perhaps the truest expression of the church is when it goes outside the walls and becomes knee deep in community involvement. Seasons of Service is a cohesive strategy of community outreach that allows individuals, care groups, small groups, ministry teams and families to serve.
Sunset’s strategy of outreach focus’s our efforts in three areas:
· Serving our schools
· Serving the hungry and poor
· Ministering to the multi-ethnicSeasons of Service is divided into spring, summer, and Fall/Winter serving opportunities. We are kicking off our Summer Season of Service. Click here for more information about opportunities to serve. Click here to volunteer for a Seasons of Service event.

Safety at Sunset
One of the “holes” left after our recent layoffs is the need for a representative from W&CA on the Safety Team. We’d like to fill that hole with a volunteer. Safety on our campus is a responsibility of the Operations team, but they need input and support from all the other teams to handle the variety of needs at Sunset. Those needs range from maintaining a safe work environment for our staff to handling an emergency that might occur on our campus.

If you’re interested in representing W&CA and being a part of Sunset’s Safety Team, please contact Carrie at carriepeeples@sunsetpres.org. The Safety Team meets once a month on the fourth Thursday from 10 to 11am; however, they may be open to changing the time.

Production/Tech Team Volunteers Needed!
We are looking for people to fill the following roles:
· Service Director
· Lighting
· Graphics
· FOH Camera Op Week
· Message Slide Designer

In addition we have a new volunteer role: Video production. We'd like to find some video editors in our midst. Are you or do you know someone who could do simple projects for us? (i.e. this week, we have white text (provided) on black screen and need someone to edit.) The level of the projects will depend on who we discover. The content is generally available a couple weeks in advance of the deadline. If you have this skill or know someone at Sunset who does, please email me janetfraser@sunsetpres.org.

Upcoming Events List
July 12-16 – Middle School Camp, click here for more info
August 3-8 – High School Camp, click here for more info
August 18-23 – Kids Camp, click here for more info

Getting To Know Us: Bob Thomas

How do you serve at Sunset and the Worship & Creative Arts Team? Presently I sing in various worship teams at Sunset, am an Elder to Session for the Worship and Arts ministry and am on the Creative Arts Serving Team (CAST). I have served in the Food and Toy ministry vicariously through my wife, Kristin, who has been one of its leaders for the last few years (I’m the gopher).

If the past 5 years of your life was made into a movie, what would the title be and why? “Dumb and Dumber” – the more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know
“Toy Story” – with two boys under the age of 8, it feels like I’ve been picking up toys and yelling at the kids to pick up toys for the last 5 years. I hear this never ends and the toys just keep getting bigger.

Describe your perfect vacation. My perfect vacation would be at Sunriver, near a pool, with my family, with no agenda and cable TV (don’t have it at home so I get to catch up on the universe of reality shows that make me realize what I’m not missing on cable TV).

What’s your “day job”? I manage some multi-state rehab companies that provide physical, occupational and speech therapy in skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, schools and hospitals. I also teach continuing education courses for therapists around the country and at Pacific University in Hillsboro and write for various professional publications.

AWARDS from Jay

Hey all,
Welcome to the weekend awards. The following awards are real, and serious, and recognized in the State of Oregon by me and certified by official email transfer.

MOST IMPROVED OUTFIT This award goes to Bob Thomas, who wore a shirt with a basic definable color this week. J Bob you sounded SO good on Hear Our Prayers and as usual delivered it with heart and passion as well.

PLAYING ON YOUR BIRTHDAY AWARD This one was tough, but I ended up giving it to my dad John McKenney, who did in fact play on his birthday. Way to go John. And nice work on the cool bass part on the time has come. I wanted to put some sunglasses on you in that moment.

BEST JANET IMPERSONATION This award goes to Carolyn, who is a faithful volunteer who does whatever she can to help each week, with such an awesome attitude!

BEST LOOP AND WITTIEST COMENT AWARD Combo awards are rare and should be treasured. This one goes to Rhett Lee who submitted the best loop AND made us all laugh during our sharing time as usual.

FIVE PLACES AT ONCE Goes to Travis, who was everywhere this weekend doing everything, in the midst of some wacky stuff going on in our sound system.

SMILE AWARD If you have ever seen the Ramblin Rod show, you know what this award is about. This one goes to Bethany, who always has a beautiful authentic smile and lights up the platform whenever she is on it.

MEMORY AWARD This one goes to the choir, who had to remember verse three and four of Come Thou Fount several times, without lyrics, or with the wrong lyrics, and pushing through it sometimes just by willing the mouth to move open and shut regardless of actual words coming out J

COOLEST PRELUDE Holy cow that was awesome. Matt and Randy and Rhett hit it out of the park, that was just, cool.

There are SO many other awards that could have been given, but policies and by laws restrict more than 8 being handed out, and I don’t want to discredit or hurt the award process so I’ll stick with the rules.

Choir and Orchestra, THANK YOU SO MUCH for an awesome year! We love you and appreciate your time, talent and heart and what you bring to Sunset!! You have blessed us!

Thank you band and singers, who still amaze me that you pull off two services formats each week! That is no small feat.

Thank you tech team, who work your tail off behind the scenes, putting in so much effort for a large time block each Thursday and Sunday.

And thank you prayer warriors, who hit the front lines of battle for us week in and week out. Priceless.

Praying for you all this morning, that your relationship, your communication, your prayer life with Jesus will deepen and come alive on a new level this week.

Jay

June 14th Worship Gatherings

The NINE
Prelude: Jazz arrangement
Special: Come Thou Fount
Welcome: Pastor Ron
Song: Holy Is The Lord
Song: What A Friend
Pastoral Prayer: John Franklin
Offertory: Choir: Shine On Us
New Series Theme: Jay McKenney
Song: For These Reasons
Song: I Exalt Thee
Message: Prayer For God's Glory: Pastor Ron
Divin' In Recognition
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron
Postlude

the eleventh hour
Prelude: Jazz arrangement
Welcome: Pastor Ron
Song: The Time Has Come
Song: All To You
Pastoral Prayer: John Franklin
Offertory: Special: Hear Our Prayers
New Series Theme: Jay McKenney
Song: Came To My Rescue
Song: I Exalt Thee
Message: Prayers For God's Glory: Pastor Ron
Sacrament of Believer Baptism
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron
Postlude

TheGathering at5pm
Welcome/Announcements: Pastor Ron
Song: Glory
Song: Holy Is The Lord
New Series Theme/Prayer: Laura VanderGeissen
Offertory: Song: What A Friend We Have In Jesus
Song: Came To My Rescue
Song: I Exalt Thee
Message: Prayers For God's Glory: Pastor Ron
Closing Announcements/Benediction: Pastor Ron