The Life Education team will be taking a summer hiatius. When we return, plan to join us for “Christianity and World Religions: Wrestling With Questions People Ask”.

This video-based small-group study explores four major world religions- Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism – and compares the beliefs of each with those of Christianity. This six-week study deals openly and honestly with questions people ask about other religions. As part of the study, author and presenter Adam Hamilton interviews a religious leader from each tradition. He treats the world religions with great respect, recognizing the unique contributions of each.

In examining these major world religions and the beliefs of their followers, the Reverend Hamilton urges us as Christians to build bridges with others so that we might grow in our faith, seek peace in our world, love our neighbor, and find positive ways to share the gospel.

During the month of April, Session approved Open Forums that will allow for increased communication between Session members and the congregation on issues Elders are working on. Information will be provided along with a Q and A time. Possible topics include: Budget - Ministry Funding and Land Loan, PCUSA Issues, Worship and Community, and Leadership.

Session also learned of upcoming changes to the Sunday bulletin. These changes are being made in order to be good stewards of our finances and the environment. Please check our web site often as it provides information and dates on upcoming events, classes, ways to serve, and much more!

In March, Session approved the 2010 Ministry Budget. Elders voted to send out a letter of appeal to the congregation asking for increased giving in order to help close the gap in the budget. For those who are able to increase their pledge to the ministry fund, please contact our confidential financial secretary, Dixie Johnson. Elders would like to thank everyone for their continued faithful giving and service.

Session also approved new and revised policy guidelines for leaders serving in our Children’s and Youth Ministries. These policies will be reviewed on an annual basis, and leaders will be provided yearly training each August.

During the month of September, Session:

-Heard an inspirational Centerpointe Christian Preschool update from Preschool Director Didi Huckaby. Didi shared stories illustrating the growing sense of community amongst the staff and families who describe it as a place of love where teachers go above and beyond for the students, families, and each other. The preschool enrollment has been excellent, and many classes have a waiting list.

-Learned of exciting new updates to our website including access to sermon podcasts, the start of Pastor Mike’s blog in the near future, and the creation of a detailed calendar of events.

-Received training on how to make Communications and Facilities Requests for all events. Forms are available in the office should you need to schedule a room or create publicity for an upcoming church event. Communication Request forms can be turned in at the church office or sent to communications@centerpointeweb.org and Facilities Request forms can be turned in at the office or sent to chris.lindstrom@centerpointeweb.org. These forms will soon be available on the church web site.

-Reviewed the role of Church Administrator, Steve Zimmerman, who oversees the following areas on a half-time basis: Finance, Buildings and Grounds, Operations, Administration, and Personnel. Many of these responsibilities have been previously handled by Pastor Mike. The Church Administrator position frees our Senior Pastor to focus on ministry and the fresh vision God has laid out for Centerpointe.