News from the Elders: August/September '23 Recap

CELEBRATING GOD’S PROVISION AT THE ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
We want to thank all of you who joined us for our annual Congregational Meeting on September 17.  The meeting was highlighted by a celebration of God’s provision this past year and a time of looking forward to where we believe the Lord is leading us, and the corresponding budget plan FY 2023-24.  By an overwhelming majority, the FY 2023-24 budget was approved and one Elder candidate, Doug Cornell, was reelected for a three-year term.  We look forward to another fruitful and productive year as we faithfully serve the Lord for His Glory and Kingdom purposes.

ELECTION OF NEW BOARD OF ELDER OFFICERS
Based on unanimous support, Ken Harlander, was reelected as Chairman of the RCC Board of Elders.  George Buell and Doug Cornell will also serve another term as Vice Chairman and Secretary of the Board, respectively.

SETTING OUR COURSE NEXT YEAR THROUGH THE “DISCIPLE” SERMON SERIES
From August 13 – September 3, Senior Pastor, Matt Vorhees, set the course for RCC during the next year through a sermon series entitled, “Disciple”.  During this four-week sermon series, Matt communicated what it means to be a church that “Makes Disciples Who Make Disciples” and how that occurs by “Walking With Jesus”, “Becoming Like Jesus”, and “Being Sent By Jesus”.  If you were not able to hear these messages or want to refresh your memory, please reference the “Disciple” sermon series on the church website or mobile app.

THANKFUL FOR THE COMMUNITY GROUP CONNECTION LUNCH
As a follow-up to the “Disciple” Sermon Series and Ministry Fair at the end of August, the Community Group Ministry hosted a Connection Lunch on September 10.  The lunch was designed to connect people who were not currently participating in small groups to a Community Group Leader.  The event was a huge success and over 25 people were personally connected to a Community Group to start the Fall Season at RCC.  As was reported at the Congregation Meeting, over 900 of our people at RCC are connected in some form of a small group relationship.  Praise the Lord!

EXCITED ABOUT THE IMPACT OF THE MINISTRY FAIR
On August 20 and 27, our major ministry areas hosted a Ministry Fair after each service in our Community Center concourse.  The Fair featured various types of food and drink offerings at each of the ministry booths, along with information concerning the ministry area and ways to connect.  The events were a great way for our people to fellowship and find ways to get involved at RCC during the Fall Season.

REJOICING IN THE SHORT-TERM TRIP TO BROOM TREE
A team of 12 people from RCC traveled to Arkansas on August 11-17 to support the Broom Tree Refuge.  Broom Tree is a ministry RCC has supported for several years that provides a place for pastors, church leaders, and missionaries to find rest and peace after difficult seasons of ministry.  Our short-term mission team provided much needed heavy lifting, cleaning, and maintenance work on the 40 acre property, along with being a fresh breath of encouragement and support for the Rays who run the Refuge.  

ENCOURAGING PARTICIPATION IN PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH
October is Pastor Appreciation month, and it has been our tradition to recognize and thank our Pastoral Staff for their commitment to love and shepherd our church family.  We encourage you to begin thinking now regarding how you might express your appreciation to these faithful servants of our Savior and Lord, Jesus.

“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice.”
Philippians 4:4