Redeemer East Side Update

Remi zik 122223

This summer, our East Side staff directors are sharing with you what they are most excited about for this next chapter of our history. We hope their reflections will be an encouragement and inspiration to you as we seek to join in on what God is doing on the East Side. This week's letter is from our Neighborhoods and Site Development Director, Aaron Bjerke.

As we on the East Side have recently become our own church, I cannot help but think about my own personal experience coming to Redeemer for the first time 12 years ago.

At that time I found myself to be spiritually confused. Having grown up in a Christian context, it was becoming difficult for me to figure out what part of me was Christian because I was raised in the church, versus what part of me was Christian because of my own personal faith.

Then, one seemingly random Sunday in the fall, I stumbled into Redeemer’s evening service. Like many of us, I had never heard of Redeemer. However, like many of us, I was drawn toward the gospel that evening because of what I experienced in the service: a packed house of young professionals, accessible music, and a thoughtful sermon. From that moment on, I began to cultivate my faith in a new way.

As we think about our church moving forward, it is more important than ever before to make sure we do not outgrow our history in being accessible and gentle to those in our city who are wrestling with the questions of life and faith. I know we can continue to be a community that offers thoughtful dialogue and invests in meaningful friendships.

Sincerely,

Aaron



+ The East Side evening service is moving to 5 p.m. starting this Sunday, August 6th. Children's Ministry will now be provided at this service.


+ Do you know someone who has passion for God, compassion for others, a teachable spirit, and attends Redeemer East Side regularly with prior experience in a Redeemer Community Group? Help us identify East Side leaders to launch new Beta Groups this fall.


+ If you are in your first year of marriage, join Marriage Lab! Marriage kicks off the year with a retreat to the Poconos and will meet monthly from October through May.


+ Actively seeking your next job? Bring your lunch and join the Diaconate's new summer speaker series! Each Thursday throughout the month of August from 12-2PM an industry expert will teach on a job search theme relevant for professionals in all industries and vocations.

+ Join Hope for New York on August 3 at 7pm for our Charity Bike Ride Info Session! Learn more about riding with #TeamHFNY on September 16 and meet others interested in riding and fundraising for the poor of our city.

+ HFNY’s affiliate family has officially grown to 50 partners! Learn more about our recently added five new non-profit affiliates.

+ The Children's Ministry team is looking for a part-time teacher and coordinator for Mustard Seeds, our special needs class. 4-8 hours a week, including Sunday mornings.