Special note to parents and teens

Hello,
It's 11:45am on Christmas Eve, Eve...I'm sitting at my desk doing some planning for the coming year! I'm so very excited about what 2015 holds for us!

One of the things that I'm really looking forward to is our first series on Sunday Mornings in January. Recently I have been asked several questions about Baptism and if we can have a baptism class for the youth group. Well, rather than run a class at some other time during the week, I have decided to teach my way through the material during Sunday School.

I will cover all the basics of Baptism (what is means, what is does/doesn't accomplish, and obedience). At the end of the "class" students will have the opportunity to sign up for baptism with WHBC, but it would be good if you, as a family, have discussed this already.

Parents, I am asking you to spend some time this holiday season with your students. If they have not been baptized ask them to consider responding in obedience when this series is over. I pray that God would stir in our students hearts and lead them to respond. I pray that through this, they might have an anchor of faith in their minds. If you or your students have questions about baptism or what our process entails, please let me know.

Another exciting event on the horizon is our Winter Retreat! This event is February 6-8th and is open to all New Heights Students. This is a great event and one that will provide life long memories!

Here's a link to Scioto's Website.
http://www.sciotohills.com/revolution-genesis

PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER ONLINE! I would like to manage our registrations, so that I have an accurate head count. But if your student is planning on going I need to know ASAP.

Wednesday Nights in Jan and Feb will be special!

The youth leaders are prepping your small group topics and lessons! We will meet together at 6:30 for worship and announcements then split into small groups for the rest of the time! This is a great time to grow in the relationships between peers and youth leaders!

Summer 2015 GO Trip
We are officially heading back to Chicago and Breakthrough Ministries. We are close to setting dates, but it looks like mid to late July. All current 8th graders and all high schoolers are invited to join the team. Begin praying about your involvement on the trip and start saving up!

There's a lot more ahead in 2015! It's going to be a great year!

Special Message from Michelle!!

Hey Teens!! This Sunday, December 28th, during first service from 9:00-10:30 we are having a youth group brunch! Bring your favorite breakfast dish or drink and come enjoy the last Sunday morning of 2014 with your friends. (Plates, cups, napkins, and silverware will be provided.) 

~Michelle Gammie

Salvation Army work day

Quick reminder:

Tomorrow we will meet @ 10:30am at church. We will take students to three locations for Bell Ringing. Students should bring money for lunch. At 3:30 or so we will pick up all the students and head up to the Kroc Center in North Dayton.

We will eat Pizza for dinner and watch a movie and play games during the evening. We will be back at church by 8pm.

We had a great time last year and the more the merrier!!

Hope to see you tomorrow!

December 2014

Hello!!

Announcements for DECEMBER 2014

Wednesday December 10th
6:30pm - 8pm
New Heights Christmas Party
Come out for our Christmas party! There will be games, food, door prizes, and fun!
Bring a $5-$10 White Elephant Gift.


Saturday December 13th
10:30am-8pm
Salvation Army Kettles and Kroc Center Party

We will leave the church parking lot @ 10:30 and head to a few locations to ring the bells and greet customers near Salvation Army Red Kettles. Around 3:30pm we will head to the Kroc Center in North Dayton and have some fun. We will watch a movie, eat pizza and play around. We will return to church by 8pm.
Bring money for lunch (fast-food) and a donation for the Red Kettles. Pizza will be provided.




Saturday December 20th
9:45-12:15pm
Miami Valley Women's Center Workday
Join us as we support this ministry to the Women of the Miami Valley who are seeking guidance and assistance. We leave church @ 9:45am and return @ 12:15pm. Come ready to clean. :)

Stay connected/informed
Remind101 text and email updates...no more than 5 texts per month!
Hey Parents, there's a way to get short text reminders straight from ME (Justin)...
Text @newheigh to (937) 619-5999. or send an email to newheigh@mail.remind101.com


Important Dates
Wednesday Dec 17th, 24th and 31st there is no youth group!
Sunday Dec 14th and 21st there is no Sunday School!
Sunday Dec 28th Sunday School is 1st hour!!


Awaited...for the past two years we have taken a trip to Crossroads Church in Cinci to see their amazing Christmas Show, Awaited. Well, this year they doubled their capacity, from 50,000 available tickets to 100,000 available tickets...Those Tickets "sold out" within days. We can't even get standby tickets. So, we will have to AWAIT, next years' program....Sorry!

Wednesday Activities!!

Hello Everyone!!


OUR SNOWTUBING ACTIVITY HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO SCHEDULING ISSUES AT BEACH MOUNTAIN!

We will however be going Ice Skating at the Kettering Rec Center.

We will meet at church at 10am. Open Skate at the Rink is from 11am-1pm.

The cost is:

Resident                   Non Resident

Youth (3 – 17)	$4.50	$7.50
Adult	$5.00	$8.50

Bring Money to cover your fees (these prices include skate rental and admission) and money for lunch at Wendy's or Panera Bread.

We will return to church around 2pm.

Thanks for your flexibility!!!

Justin

November - December Happenings!!!

Hey there,

It's been awhile since I've updated you all on what's been going on! Part of the reason for that is that I'm also involved in the Men's Ministries which are pretty much exploding right now (PTL)!

Anyway! Here we go with what's happening!

Events
Shoebox Prepwork
Wednesday November 12th
Tomorrow night we will be helping with some prep for the Shoebox Packing Party which is happening this Sunday! Come out to help us prepare boxes and gift bags for kids around the world!

Shoebox shopping...Take some time to do some shopping this week and bring our box supplies this Sunday! Here's a video to help with details for what to pack.

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/pack-a-shoe-box/?utm_source=OCC-ShoeboxTime-6787-Catalyst&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=m_YOCC-14PC_Catalystemail&utm_content=6787-Vid-image#ooid=I3cXhmcTodv8TeNzqRhJm8IYNLjFsfr3

MVWC Workday & Holsinger's Leaf Day
Saturday November 15th
MVWC 9:45am-12:15pm
Holsingers 12:30-4ish bring cash for lunch at Wendy's or similar. And bring rakes, gloves etc!

SnowTubing @ the Beach
Wednesday November 26th
10am-2pm $16 per person, plus extra cash for lunch.

Awaited
December TBD.
If you've been around the past two years you've probably heard about our trip to Crossroads Church in Cinci for their Christmas program, Awaited. This phenomenal production is one of my favorite events we do all year long! We will be securing 30+ tickets for the show. Signups will be first come first served. We will know the dates of our show around December 1st.

Teaching
On Wednesday nights for the next several weeks we will be exploring what it looks like to live life intentionally with the gospel in mind. We are working through a series entitled, Life on Mission and David Platt is the primary teacher through the series. Students are discussing the implications of the teaching in their small groups.

After the first of the year we will be breaking into our small groups for age/gender specific teaching lead by our phenomenal Youth Leaders!

On Sunday Mornings we will begin a series looking into Salvation. We will discuss the plan of Salvation and what it really means that we were chosen before time (Eph 1:4). We will also look at Justification, Sanctification and Glorification and how those truths impact our lives.

Starting in January we will explore Baptism. This study will provide students the opportunity to remember what it means to be baptized (if they have been already) and stir others to obedience in baptism after hearing what it means and why we do it.

Important Dates
There is no Youth Group 
November 26th
December 17th, 24th or 31st

There is no Sunday School 
December 14th or 21st 

And We will meet 1st hour for Sunday School on December 28th!



Thanks for reading!
As always, reach out to me with questions, concerns or complaints (jk on the complaints) jk on that, I'm open to hearing complaints... :) 
Justin

Men's Retreat Invite

Hello Friends!

Hi, in 10 days the WHBC Men of the Heights Men's Retreat will be starting! I am extremely excited for this event...not only because I have been working on it for months, but because God has wired me to thrive when I'm around other men who love God. Did you know your son is wired the same way? And all of the men in your life!

Please consider sending your Junior High and High School aged sons to this retreat. I can think of few better ways to make an impact on a young man, than sending them to spend the weekend with godly men who are working towards their own Spiritual Growth!

How cool would it be for your son to return home having made some deep personal connections with men 2 or 3 times their age?!

7th and 8th graders can attend with Dad, Grandpa or male guardian. 9th-12th can come without supervision, but all will be expected to participate in the retreat as adults. This will be a fantastic time spent digging into God's word and sharing with other men. We'll also have fun. Late night hoops, carpet ball, skeet shooting and more!

Students attending with a family member are only $30. Students attending solo are asked to pay the full retreat price, there are however a few Scholarships available.

The main bus leaves @ 1pm on Friday October 31st. A second bus will leave at 4:30 from church. A third wave will leave Saturday morning early. All buses will arrive back at church around 10 or 10:30 Saturday night.

Contact Justin @ church for more info.

Parent's Meetings...and why you should be there!

Every few months we hold a Parent's Meeting (ok, well actually it's been more than a few months since our last one...but let's not talk about that). We hold these meetings so that YOU, the parents can connect with me, the guy you pay to Pastor your kids. But this is also a great opportunity for YOU, the parents, to connect with other parents.

You may feel your kid is the only one with behavior issues at home...you get good reports from teachers and coaches, but at home.....BLAH! You may feel you are the only one dealing with whatever issues you are dealing with.

Let me promise you something. You are NOT ALONE! Solomon, the wisest guy ever, told us "Nothing is new under the sun". And Paul tells us that all temptations and sins are common to all people...that doesn't mean we all have the same EXACT struggles, but we are all in the same boat.

So you are not alone. Other parents are uniquely equipped to walk through this journey with you. Don't try to walk it alone. 

Parents, I work hard to make sure your students know that I love God. That I love His Word, and that I love them. Because of my relationship with your students, I often have deep conversations with your kids, that you may, or may not have with them. I don't want that to ever be an issue. But the only way that's not an issue is if you trust me. You can't really trust me unless you know me. And you can't really know me unless you interact with me. 

We are all busy, so I'm not suggesting we all go out for coffee once a week...I love coffee, but even I believe you can drink too much coffee. 

BUT, these Parent Meetings offer you the chance to see me and interact with me. Please consider coming out this Thursday evening for 1 hour (7pm-8pm in the youth room) to hear about what God is doing and see where we're headed over the next several months. Also, you'll hear about how to stay connected throughout the weeks and months, before our next Parent's Meeting.

Thank you! I hope to see you Thursday.

Justin

October News

Hi there,

First, I want to say we're off to a GREAT START to the school year! We've had consistently large groups the last 3 weeks! Thanks for your commitment to New Heights Student Ministries!

Second, Here's some important info!

Fun Stuff

Junior High SNAC (fun activity)
Sunday October 5th from 7pm-8:30pm. Laser Tag! $17 per student is the cost. We'll play 3 games for that price! Invite your friends!

Senior High SNAC
Saturday October 18th from 12:30-3pm (following the MVWC workday). Laser Tag! $17 per student. Bring Cash for lunch as well. We'll stop at Wendy's or LaRosa's for lunch then play.

Informative Stuff

Parents meeting (exciting activity)
Thursday October 2nd from 7-8pm. Come out to hear about our plans for the coming school year. Meet some of the youth leaders. Get your chance to yell at Justin for all the things he's messed up recently... :) Just kidding...unless you really have some concerns. And if that's the case I am happy (or very interested) in hearing those concerns.


Resources

Parents Online Bible Study
Soon you will be invited to take part in an online Bible Study designed for YOU (parents). It will combine parts of several solid video based Bible studies. The best part, you can access them from your home, office or wherever you have an internet connection. You can access them at any time of day or night. You'll be able to interact with other parents who are working through the same material.

I am working on this resource, not because I think I have the answers or the formula figured out for how to raise teens...(mine aren't teens yet, and you better believe I'm coming to YOU when they are). My goal is to offer fresh perspectives and insights from a wide range of people. Also I'll show you from the students' side of things, a few perspectives on parenting. : )

If you don't like the sound of this resource, feel free to ignore it. But if you are interested, look for more details soon.

Thank you for your support of New Heights Student Ministries!

Justin

Cool Happenings

Hi,

Here's a few things coming up soon!

Women of the Heights and Men of the Heights Kickoff

This Sunday Morning the Women of the Heights and Men of the Heights are having a kickoff event during the normal Sunday School hours. This is event will give the men and women of the church a chance to see what's planned for the coming year. We will not have a normal Youth Group this Sunday. The junior high will still meet, but all high schoolers are invited to attend their respective kickoff event.

Please encourage your students to come. Both the Men's and Women's Ministries are reworking some of the familiar events and adding so really cool opportunities for this year. It would be awesome to have our high school students begin to plug in and start relationships with more adults through the Men's and Women's Ministries.

Retreats

We have been presented with an opportunity to attend some retreats this fall. There is a high school retreat and a Men's Retreat coming soon. All High School Guys are invited to attend the Men's retreat. Any Junior High Guy is invited as long as Dad or a guardian is attending.

The Men's Retreat is October 31st and November 1st @ Scioto Hills, we are still finalizing details such as times and pricing.

The High School Retreat will either be November 8-10 or 14-16. The cost is $50 for the entire weekend. We will be heading to a Camp in Butler Springs. We need to know what kind of interest there is in the retreat. If we have lots of interest we will make it happen. If not...

Here's a link to the webpage with lots of helpful info.

http://iamone21.com/experiencechange/experience-change-faqs/

Prayer Meetings

Starting Thursday September 11th through Thursday October 9th the church will be holding special prayer meetings. There will be two meeting times; 6:30am-7:00am and 8:30pm-9pm. These will be informal prayer times set aside to pray for the ministry of Washington Heights. We will pray for the health of our church and revival. They will end right on time, there will be no lesson or discussion.

Students are invited and encouraged to join. Please make it a priority to attend. Pastor Kisner will lead the Morning sessions and I (Justin) will lead the Evening Sessions.

Small Groups and Leaders

Please pray for the Youth Leadership Team. We are working on getting our small groups back up and running, but we need more Adult Leaders. Ideally we will have small groups with 5 to 7 students plus two leaders. We currently are unable to follow this ideal set up because we do not have enough leaders. Please pray that people would join us and that maybe you are part of the solution.

We are having a Youth Leader Meeting Sunday September 14th during the first worship service. If you are interested in seeing how you might help please let me know you are interested and plan to attend the meeting if possible.

God is doing some really cool things here at WHBC and especially in our Teens!

Thanks

Justin

Long time no write...

Wow, it’s been a while since I posted on here…sorry. If you’re like me, the last several weeks have been insanely busy.

Don’t forget to come out to the Praise and Picnic this Sunday.

The Splat presentation is going to be awesome! The Kohavis are a young couple from Nashville and they are seriously talented! You don’t want to miss this!

There will be a kids program for preK – 6^th grade as well.

 Plan on staying for the Picnic and fun to follow!

We’re going to have a blast! We’ve got 3 bounce houses. ONE for the little ones, and 2 for everyone else!!

We’ll be holding the first ever WHBC Cornhole Tournament, a water balloon toss challenge and more! Come out! Bring your friends and plan on having fun!

Here’s a little video we’ve used for promotion purposes in the Big Room (big Church). Enjoy and hope to see you Sunday!

MVWC update

Hey! No women's center tomorrow.  

No women's center tomorrow. 

Feel free to come hang out and watch some Upward Soccer if you want. But NO WOMENS CENTER tomorrow!

Important Updates for the week!!!

Hey families,

Salvation Army Carnival
Friday August 1st 12:30pm-9pm.
The Salvation Army is hosting an end of Summer Carnival for people who have been involved with their Summer Programming. We have been asked to help staff the Carnival.

They need at least 20 students who can help with games during the Carnival. They have 10 games and need 2 students per game for running it and supervision.

We will leave church at 12:30pm on Friday and help with a bit of set up before the Carnival actually starts. When the Carnival is over we'll be able to hang out and use the gym or watch a movie in the Theater. We'll be back to Church at little after 9pm.

You need to bring comfortable clothes for the day.

RSVP so we know how many will be coming and how much Pizza to have available!

Dragons Game
Sunday August 3rd 1pm-6pm
The Cost is $10 
RSVP ASAP
We will leave the church parking lot @ 1pm for the game. Please eat lunch before you come or plan to eat at the game.
Our seats are in the outfield, uncovered and exposed. The forecast looks great! 
We will return to church following the game. 

Call, text or email with questions!!

TOMORROW -- CHASE WEDNESDAY

Wednesday July 23rd     6:15-8:45p

Justin is out of town and we need a lot of VOLUNTEERS (kids, parents, and youth workers) to help with this event. If you are planning to attend and can help with the planning and execution of this event contact Jenny Wyckoff at wyckoff@whbc.org , leave a message on the New Heights FB page, or call the church office (434-4676). Let's keep this important ministry outreach event going even though your fearless leader is vacationing.

Salvation Army Carnival

Hey There!!

So, Friday August 1st the Salvation Army is hosting an end of Summer Carnival for people who have been involved with their Summer Programming. We have been asked to help staff the Carnival.

They need at least 20 students who can help with games during the Carnival. They have 10 games and need 2 students per game for running it and supervision.

We will leave church at 12:30pm on Friday and help with a bit of set up before the Carnival actually starts. When the Carnival is over we'll be able to hang out and use the gym or watch a movie in the Theater. We'll be back to Church at little after 9pm.

You need to bring comfortable clothes for the day.

RSVP so we know how many will be coming and how much Pizza to have available!

Thanks!

Back in the Swing of Things...

Hey everyone,

It's good to be back in the rhythm of the day to day. It took me several days to readjust from the Nicaragua Trip, but I'm back feeling somewhat normal.

Hey so, here's an update on upcoming events!


Friday July 18th
5:30-7:30 I need help with a service project. The Bill Glass Prison Ministry Dinner is being hosted at the church. They need help cleaning up after the dinner. There will be food available for volunteers and it's pretty simple work, just a lot of it. 300 chairs and a bunch of tables need to be put away. Please come out to help!!!


Saturday July 19th
9:45-12:15 MVWC workday

Wednesday July 23rd
6:15-8:45 Chase Wednesday!!!

Friday August 1st
Salvation Army Summer Festival
Times will be announced ASAP. We will help with running the festival then have a chance to hang out and use the gym/theater when we're done.

Sunday August 3rd
1pm-6pm Dragons Game!! $10 per person Junior High and High School are invited.

Wednesday August 20th
Back to School Bash 6:30-8:30 in the Youth Room

Wednesday August 27th
6:15-8:45 Final Chase Wednesday of the Summer!


Stay tuned for other info!

Nicaragua Reunion

Hey Nicaragua Team,
There's been some confusion about the reunion tomorrow night.

We'll meet in the Youth Room at 7pm for some conversations and pictures.

Bring yourself and your family. Many of you have shared some of your personal stories with your families, tomorrow night, hopefully they can get another perspective on the trip.

We'll officially end at 8:30...but if we stay a little longer that's fine too.

If you have an SD card with pictures from the trip please bring it. When the Gammies return from Vacation you will have the opportunity to get all of the pictures she took.

7pm-8:30pm in the youth room. Families invited.  Bring your SD card with pictures on it.

Day Eight

Day Eight

Today was busy from the beginning. We are breakfast and hit the road close to 8. We drove an hour out of town to a zip lining center. 

We harnessed up and were drove to the top of a small hill nearby. These lines are in the jungle. So we clipped on and zipped from one platform to the next. There were about eleven platforms and it took about 45 minutes to complete the course. 

After completion we got back on the bus and drove to Laguna de Apoyo. This "resort" is settled in the crater of an extinct volcano which has filled with water, creating a massive lake.  We had an amazing lunch and lots of free time. Many played in the water, floating on rubber inner tubes, kayaks or pool noodles. We played King of the Mountain on a floating dock and other crazy games.

This day capped off the trip in a special way. We got back to the center around 6:30 and ate quickly. After packing our suitcases we met for our final debrief. 

We spent much of the evening discussing re-entry. We talked about how even though our friends and family love us, they won't love slowly looking through the thousands of pictures and videos we've taken. We talked about the feelings of sadness that are common after missions trips. 

Ask your students how the trip was. Ask them what made an impact. Ask them what they don't want to forget. But make sure you ask them how God changed them or what He taught them. 

I will post from one of the airports during our travels tomorrow. Thanks for joining us on our journey in this way. Thanks for your prayers. 

Day Seven

Day Seven

Today we started with work projects around the center. We cleared gravel and cement from an area near the dining hall, painted a few buildings and started the process for a loading dock. We were able to finish a number of projects and set up a few others. 

After lunch we headed out to Javier's church again. For some of us it was our third trip there. We played games and entertained. A soccer game broke out when some 18-25 year olds saw one of our soccer balls. These guys are good!

After a while we served a snack and Tang to the small kids and got them to sit down. We sang some songs and then did a puppet show. Mark taught a lesson and a verse to the kids. After that we played some more games. We had a long jump rope that the little kids loved. After a while the soccer guys gave it a try. These guys take competitions very seriously. 

Debrief tonight was really cool. Tim Erlandson shared his testimony. One theme that has surfaced through our reading in 1 John is the assurance of our salvation. It has also surfaced in our debriefs as an issue many students struggle with. Tims testimony was a perfect fit with this theme. 

God is working. 

God is good, all the time. 

All the time, God is good. 

Day Six

Day Six

In some ways it's hard to believe that it's day 6 already. The time has gone by quickly. But when I think about what's been accomplished I am amazed that it's only been 6 days.

 I've lost track of all of the deep conversations I've had. Some where in groups, others one on one. Some where entirely spiritual. Some where resolving conflict or drama. Some ended in tears as the Holy Spirit melted hearts of stone. Others ended with shoulder shrugs and ambiguity. 

God is working. 

This morning we split the group and attended 2 different church services. One group went to El Camino, which is a Children's Ministry Center. If you saw the pictures of us indoors doing a vbs that's El Camino. This group sang a bunch of songs both in English and Spanish. They prepped a snack for the kids and showed Gods love to them. 5 students shared their testimony  to the entire group through Abby as she translated for them. They had a great time. 

The other group went to Pastor Javier's church. The pictures from our first VBS were at this location as well. We sat in the small concrete block building that is is a state of repair due to the earth quakes from April. Javier just finished repairing the top half of the walls this week. We sat with his young church on flimsy plastic patio furniture and listened as a Gloria Player played hymns in Spanish. It's hard to sing How Great Though Art in English while your neighbor is singing in Spanish. : )

The scripture reading this morning in church was Psalm 34...go look it up. Spend a few minutes looking at the homes and places these people live, then look up Psalm 34. 

 

This afternoon we spent a few hours hanging out at the Holsingers home. It was relaxing and fun. 

Our debrief tonight warmed my heart. God is using your children to do great things. 

Pray for strength as we enter our final day of ministry. Pray for boldness. Pray the the Holy Spirit would work in His timing to solidify lessons we've all learned this week. 

Thanks. 

Day five

Day five

Today was a long day. It started for some of the team yesterday morning. I'm sure most of you know Jordan Barlow has been fighting a battle over his health almost since we got here. Everything came to a head Friday night. The decision was made to fly him home and Joel Harbaugh and Mark Holsinger spent all night working on the details to get him home. 

This morning the team headed out to Masaya Volcano and then to the Masaya Market for some touristy fun. Many of our groups were escorts by "helpful" locals who were eager to show us the place to find the best prices and authentic merchandise. Typically they took us to a vendor who happened to be a relative or someone who was willing to split the profit. 

After the market went to Papa Johns for lunch. This was the best Papa Johns I've ever had (and not bc I was hungry or missed pizza). We left the touristy part of town and headed out into the "county". After 45 minutes of driving up a mountain, weaving back and forth and being jolted around we arrived. 

Pastor Luis's church uses a humble piece of property less than half the size of our sports field back home. We did our program right away and then got to play and interact with the kids.  

The Holsingers brought a massive smiley face piñata for very in to enjoy. When the piñata finally broke the mayhem that ensued was startling. Kids and adults rushed in for handfuls. I picked up pieces that had flown further from the pile and handed them to a little girl who could just barely walk. Her sister (maybe 7 yrs old) thanked me profusely for helping. 

Pastor Luis would later tell us that the reason the adults had jumped at the pile as we'll was that many of them are near starvation and so they were not too proud to rush in like the children.  

We then walked the quarter mile or so into the valley to visit some homes. We visited Maria's home. This home is the inspiration for the M&M hut that was in the foyer for several weeks. We prayed for her and her family of five. 

God is breaking hearts. Not just bc of the abject poverty we've seen, but bc of the hope we see on the faces of so many who have nothing. We've seen pastors who board a bus and travel 3 hours in one direction without the money to get a ride home, trusting that God would provide. We've seen children laugh with pure joy at bubbles. God is changing your students. 

When we get home, after you e gotten the tourist recap from them, ask them what they'll never forget. Ask them what poverty smells like. Ask them what it's like to see the poorest of the poor love with such faith and love. Ask them how they're different. 

Day Three

Day Three

Today we were up early for devos and breakfast. Half the team went to the Feeding Center near Lake Managua. This is the center we raised the money for with the M&Ms. It was truly amazing to see these kids get to play and worship together with our teens. The cool factor increased when Mark and Jen told us that some of the money raised went to purchasing chicken fir their meal today. So they got the treat of chicken with their usual meal of soy protein, rice and handmade corn tortillas. We handed out the sets of bowls, cups and flatware as well. 

The other half of the team was able to paint half of the Seminary building at the Center. They also continued the task of filling the septic hole with rocks. 

We ate lunch at a Nicaraguan buffet then headed to a Children's Center on the coast of Lake Managua. The whole team ran VBS at the Children's Center and had a blast. The children like playing with us, but mostly like teasing us. : )

When we got back to the center, a storm had knocked out the power for a few hours but it was back on before dinner. 

Spirits are high! God is working in hearts. Pray that students would work through problems or sin that is holding them back. Pray that the Holy Spirit would protect us and change us. 

Day Two

Day Two

After our long day of travel we all slept in until close to 6am...actually most of the guys were up before 6...the sun begins to rise at 5am and our curtains let it in. We had an awesome breakfast of rice and beans, eggs, toast and fresh local fruit. We had devotions out of 1 John 1 and orientation.

Some of the team jumped into work projects around the center...filling low spots in the dirt roads, filling a septic hole with rocks and hauling other rocks to the septic hole. Others prepped crafts and VBS supplies. 

After jalapeño chicken, rice and plantains for lunch we headed out for our first VBS. Don't picture a WHBC style VBS. There was no drama, coordinated movement of crowds of people or Dan Ernst leading songs...but realistically that's not what would work here. Maybe if Erica Kwast was here to plan it, but alas... We played soccer and whiffle ball, painted fingernails and blew bubbles. We hung out with 20-30 kids and then had a snack.  Next we sang some simple songs in Spanish. Abby DeLange served as my translator and did an awesome job. 

It began raining right as we packed up and we were treated to a beautiful double rainbow! 

We came back to the center for grilled steak, chicken and pineapple kabobs with rice and beans. 

Day Two ended with a debrief recapping our experiences from the day and free time. Most students spent their 2 hours of freedom in the centers massive pool. It was a refreshing end to a very warm and sunny day. 

As we head to bed the only things we've got to worry about are blisters, soreness and drinking more water. Everyone is feeling pretty good as we wind down. 

I guess I've done a good job preaching about drinking water because now when I gather the group together someone always guesses that I'm going to talk about drinking more water. : )

It's 10pm here in Managua which means it's 12am back home. The dorms are quiet but warm. Pray for no injuries or dehydration tomorrow. We'll be away from the center most of the day doing ministry at 2 locations. 

God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good!

Day One

Day One

Travel

Today was great. After a safe ride to Dayton International Airport we made it through security fairly quickly and boarded our plane with time to spare. All of our flights were on time for arrival and only once did we sit on the plane before take off. 

We had some downtime in Houston which allowed us the chance to watch the US vs Belgium game. : (

We landed safely in Managua just before 9pm local time or 11pm Eastern. We made it through Immigration without any problems AT ALL. And we went through customs and security so fast I was left wondering if we'd skipped a step. Praise The Lord!! 28 people and all our luggage arrived on time and safely. 

The small stomach issue we had during travel has resolved itself without an other casualties. 

The Holsingers picked us up at the door and we made the drive through the city of Managua and to the ABWE center a little after 11pm local. After a short pow wow to address Wednesdays schedule we headed to bed. 

Praise God for smooth and safe travel. Be praying for worshipful attitudes and God honoring work! 

This is a great group and God is already working!

Important Updates...Yes they're always important...

Hey there!

First, Welcome to all the new 7th graders and any new families who've joined us recently!

Summer Vacation is already underway and June is packed full of events and activities! ONE QUICK CHANGE OF SCHEDULE!

Starting Today...we will meet from 6:30-8:30 on Wednesday nights through the summer.

And NEXT WEDNESDAY JUNE 11TH THERE WILL BE NO YOUTH GROUP DUE TO VBS!!!


FINAL CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR CEDARPOINT is today!!!
If you are currently in high school (includes our freshly promoted High School and College freshmen) you have until AFTER church tonight to pay and register for CEDARPOINT.
$50 due today!!!

VBS snacs 
Tuesday June 10th after VBS the 7th & 8th graders are invited to go to Wendys for lunch followed by Putt Putt @ Adventure Golf in Centerville. The cost for mini golf is $8 per person and lunch is whatever you'll eat at Wendy's. We will be back around 2:30pm.

Thursday June 12th after VBS all high schoolers are invited to go to Young's Dairy for games and fun. We'll eat on our way out to Young's (Wendy's probably) and then hang out at Young's. We'll be back at church around 4pm. Bring as much money as you think you'll need. There are batting cages, mini golf, driving ranges, animals to feed, and all kinds of food and ice cream. So be prepared as far as money goes.

Miami Valley Women's Center Workday!
Saturday June 21st we will get back to the routine of our normal duties out at the Women's Center. We'll leave church at 9:45 and be back at 12:15.

Chase Wednesday in June...
June 25th...this time we'll be joined by a group of  30 teens plus leaders from Arkansas. This group will be sharing a presentation with music and drama in the Field at the Chase apartments. We average 30 of our people for this event...It'd be nice if we have AT LEAST AS MANY of our people, as this group from AK has... :) Lets show up BIG for this!!!

A few reminders for your Friday viewing pleasure

Hey I've got some important reminders of upcoming events.


Nicaragua Team Members - I need to photo copy your passport sometime this next week. So bring it Sunday or stop by the church some time.

This Wednesday May 28th is Chase Wednesday we're leaving church @ 6:15 and will return at 8:45. Come ready to play and have fun with the kids at Chevy Chase.

Sunday June 1st is promotion Sunday and Graduate Recognition Sunday...
Graduating Seniors make sure you've sent in a picture of yourself and your plans for next fall!
Everyone is invited to the Summer kickoff Cookout following the 2nd service! Check your letter or the last post on here for details for what to bring.

Sunday June 1st is the last day to register and pay for Cedar Point. Have your $50 and sign up or you won't get to go...

VBS is just around the corner, sign up to help!

Thanks...as always let me know if you have questions.


Thanks Justin

Promotions and a Picnic

Hello New Heights Families,

It’s almost June, and that means it’s almost time for Promotion Sunday. That’s right! June 1^st is Promotion Sunday and Graduate Recognition Sunday.

To mark this special day in the life of our ministry we are having an ALL YOUTH GROUP FAMILY COOK OUT! I can smell the grill already! This cookout will give students a chance to hang out and welcome the new 7^th graders and congratulate our outgoing seniors. And Parents, this gives you the chance to spend some time with the Youth Leaders.

Please plan to stay after the morning services and join us for the cook out. The church will provide plenty of hot dogs, but we need your help to make this a cook out to remember.

Every Family                                  2 liter or bottles of water

Current 7-8^th graders                Salad of some sort (potato, egg, green, etc)

Current 9-10^th graders             Bag of Chips AND a dessert (nothing frozen cause we’ll be outside)

Current 11^th-12^th graders        Fruit or veggie tray

 **current grade as in the 2013-2014 school year.

Families should also plan to bring lawn chairs, blankets and other picnic-ish paraphernalia. We will head back to the Soccer fields after the 2^nd service has ended. We’ll be done by 2.

Quick Recap -- Sunday June 1^st following the 2^nd service bring your family and your assigned dishes and drinks to the Soccer fields for an All Youth Group Family Cook Out and mingle with parents, students and leaders!

RSVP to the church office with total number of attendees—434-4676 or gabbard@whbc.org.

Thanks so much for allowing New Heights Ministries to serve your family!

Reminder about the Miami Valley Women's Center Walk 4 Life

Hey everyone,

Here's a reminder about Saturday!!


We will leave church  @ 6:30am and head to the Women's Center.

We will leave the Women's Center and return to church around 12pm.

We can grab lunch if there's interest.

AND I will pay for lunch if we get 20 people to come help!

VERY IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

I am very sorry to have to announce that our events for tomorrow night will not be taking place. 
I apologize for the last minute changes! I know that your families are all busy and when schedules change at the last minute it often throws the whole family into a spin.

Due to circumstances beyond my control we can not attend the Dragons Game tomorrow night. And due to the thunderstorms forecast for Friday night we will not be camping out either.


What we WILL be doing is going to the Dragons Game Monday night...We will leave church @6pm and return after the game. Cost of the game is $7 (bring $$ if you want to eat at the game).

No Dragons or Camping May 9th

Monday May 12th Dragons game only
Leave church @ 6pm. Cost is $7

If you're interested in what happened, here's the scoop.

Several Months ago I ordered the tickets using a mail in form. A few weeks ago, after not hearing back from the Dragons Box office I called to find out if everything had gone through. I was told everything was in order and that we would receive the tickets in a few days. The tickets did arrive at the church shortly thereafter but since I was assured everything was in order I did not check the tickets themselves. Unfortunately Friday the 9th was unavailable when I placed the order, as was a second date I offered. What was available was Monday the 12th (my third option, but not really one I expected to have to use). For some reason we were never notified of the dates that ended up being booked.

I called the Dragons and tried to find a way for us to attend tomorrow night but they were not able to help.

So I have 30 tickets for Monday May 12th @ 7pm.

Come join me for some of America's Favorite Pastime!

Again, I apologize for the disruption and last minute changes!

God Bless!

Justin

Dragons and Campouts and Cedar Point OH MY!

Well, this is the blog you've all been waiting for...

keep reading to find details about our Dragons Game and Campout and... Cedar Point!!!

Friday May 9th we (all New Heights Students) will be heading to Fifth Third Field to watch the Dayton Dragons play! I have plenty of tickets so invite your friends! The Cost for this event is $15...pay me that evening! We will leave the church parking lot at 6pm. Following the game the buses will return to WHBC parking lot. All Junior Highers (Ignite) will be picked up at that time. All High Schoolers (Revolution) that plan on attending the Campout will stay at the church.

For the Campout we will leave the church once everyone is ready and head to the Erlandson's (Dan and Louanne) home in Waynesville. Bring a sleeping bag, clothes and pillow. We will set up guys on one side of the yard and girls on the other. We'll have a fire in the fire pit, play some games and hang out. We will eat breakfast on Saturday and be back at church by 10am.

Sign up in the Youth Room!

June 17th-18th Revolution ONLY (high school)

We will leave the church parking lot around 3pm on Tuesday June 17th. We will head to Elyria OH where we will stay at a church overnight. Wednesday June 18th we will get up and head to Cedar Point for the day. We will return to church after our day of fun at the park.  We will leave when the park closes at 10 and should arrive back at WHBC around 2 am.

The cost is $50 plus food money. You need to bring money for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks for Wednesday. Dinner Tuesday will be provided for you.

You must sign up and pay by Sunday June 1st!

If you have questions or concerns about anything listed above please contact me through the church office or by email. 

Justin Hoppe
Pastor of Student Ministries
jhoppe@whbc.org