women@calvary

what's our homework?

2011-09-18T07:10:00.000-04:00

"Simplifying your life is a journey you choose to take. To do things you enjoy, you must find the time to do them. To make your life easier, you must find better ways of doing things. To spend time with people you value, you must say good-bye to a jam-packed schedule."

- Marcia Ramsland

We are choosing to simplify our lives.

To find a better way of doing things.

To make more time for the people we value.

The beginning of every journey begins with the first step...and here is the first step...and a few more for us to work on over the next few weeks:

Read Chapter 1 - Simplifying is a Personal Journey (page 1)
Read Chapter 3 - Maximize Mealtimes (page 69)
Complete Week One Day 1-5 in the workbook

Have a good week taking those first steps!

we've started to simplify our lives - week one reminders

2011-09-17T20:43:00.000-04:00

Yes, we've started.

Our first Growing Deeper Mentoring Group session started on Tuesday, September 13th.

We are doing a Bible/Book study called Simplify Your Life by Marcia Ramsland.

Here are several reminders of week number one:

"I can do that" - the four words that will carry us through all of our simplifying challenges! Practice saying it out loud - many times a day!
Start with the small things. If we can conquer the small things, we'll be ready to move onto bigger projects. Start by making your bed - everyday.
Remember the term "clear line of site?" Work on getting a clear line of site on your kitchen counters.

And remember: You Are Amazing, Girlfriends!!!

Let's keep praying for each other!

PS...have you joined our women@calvary facebook page yet? Come on over and connect with us there!

pause devotional

2011-09-12T14:04:00.001-04:00

This week's pause devotional is a story about how God uses ordinary, everyday opportunities to transform us into the image of His Son, Jesus.

Click here to read.

God bless you today!

the pastors' wives chat - listen in!

2011-09-10T21:56:00.002-04:00

To help you get to know us better, we got together around a dining room table for a chat, and you are invited to listen in. Join us, Karen Lambshead, Sandra Lombardo, Amy Cockburn and Kathy Butryn, the Pastor's Wives of Calvary Church!

simplify your life!

2011-09-09T19:04:00.002-04:00

Growing Deeper Mentoring Group

begins on September 13th

Calvary Church

7:15 pm

Double Room - Lower Level

See you there!

read a message from Marcia Ramsland, Author of Simplify Your Life

a summer tea

2011-08-12T16:47:00.000-04:00

It was a rainy day...but it dampen our enthusiasm.

Instead of being in the backyard, 20 of us gathered in Kathy's living and dining room. It was close fellowship to say the least, but maybe we got to know each other better!?

Here are a few of the pictures:

And of course, we had lots of goodies too!

It was great to connect! Before we know it, September will be here and we'll be back at it. Mark your calendar now with the dates for our 2011-2012 ministry year!

You Are Invited for Tea on August 3rd at 7:15 pm

2011-07-26T20:31:00.000-04:00

Are you wondering what's going on in our Growing Deeper Mentoring Group in September?

Would you like to connect with other Calvary women during the summer?

Maybe you would like find out more about the women@calvary ministry.

If so, then why don't you come for tea and an evening to enjoy visiting with other women from Calvary.

Where: Kathy Butryn's home

RSVP: kathy.butryn@gmail.com

Time: 7:15 pm

SOOO looking forward to seeing you then!

hugs,

kath

pictures from growing deeper - May 11

2011-05-11T22:20:00.000-04:00

We had an amazing time tonight at Growing Deeper...all about the character quality of "generosity."

Check out the pics!

growing deeper :: April 13

2011-04-14T19:22:00.000-04:00

"There are two ways to get enough. One is to continue to accumulate more and more.

The other is to desire less.

-G.K. Chesterton

Here's a picture of the fabulous women who joined us for growing deeper on April 13th! Thanks for coming out. It was a great evening "getting real" about this whole contentment thing.

There were many of you unable to join us on Wednesday for one reason or another...we missed you!

Love you all,

kath

handout for growing deeper on Wednesday April 13

2011-04-11T13:24:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone...here is the handout/outline for our growing deeper group on Wednesday April 13--just incase you wanted to look at it or download it before you come on Wednesday night. Looking forward to seeing you all there!!!

Click here for handout.

hugs,
kath

get to know us! :: introducing Carla Eastwood

2011-04-11T11:18:00.001-04:00

Carla is Tim's wife, and a busy mom to Sarah and Nathan. She's an amazing knitter--in fact, she is the one who came up with the idea for us to have a knitting club! Thanks Carla!

Take a moment to get to know her better...

1. What is your favourite hobby?

Knitting

2. What was your favourite Christmas gift?

Ipod Nano

3. What is your favourite verse?

Psalm 138

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

Many clothes, a very good camera and probably a far away holiday.

5. What kind of animal best describes your personality?

I'm not sure...does anyone out there have any ideas?

Thanks for sharing with us Carla!

coming up :: April 13 - growing deeper group - contentment

2011-04-10T11:46:00.002-04:00

The Paradox of Our Age

"We spend more but have less; we buy more but enjoy it less; we have more conveniences, yet less time; more leisure and less fun; we have more knowledge but less judgment; we have more gadgets but less satisfaction; more medicine, yet less wellness. We spend too recklessly; laugh too little, drive too fast; get angry too quickly; stay up too late; get up too tired; read too little; watch TV too much, pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values; we talk too much, love too little and lie too often. We've learned to rush, but not to wait; we have more parties, but less fun; more acquaintances, but fewer friends. These are times of fancier houses, but broken homes; higher incomes, but lower morals. We've learned how to make a living, but not a life; we've added years to life, not life to our years."

-Bob Moorehead - Words Aptly Spoken

(as taken from Character Makeover, page 214)

Come on out on Wednesday April 13th, and together, let's re-discover the beauty of cultivating contentment into our character and our everyday life!

get to know us! :: introducing Sari Vandermeer

2011-04-09T11:30:00.004-04:00

Have you met Sari yet?

I can tell you exactly where you can meet up with her every single Sunday: at Calvary Church's Welcome Desk. It is Sari's beautiful smile and caring heart that makes her the perfect fit for that ministry.

Let's find out more about her!

1. What is your favourite hobby?

Gardening or baking!!

2. What was your favourite Christmas gift?

From past or present? The Keg gift card!

3. What is your favourite verse?

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

A trip tour through Europe and stop by Australia!

5. What kind of animal best describes your personality?

Hard one!!! Frog? Long legs and tries to leap at opportunity for others.

Great to meet you Sari!

Be sure to drop by the Welcome Desk and say a "howdy-do" to Sari on Sunday!

growing deeper cancelled for Wednesday March 23, 2011

2011-03-23T17:01:00.000-04:00

cancelled!!!!!!!

Hi everyone...just letting you know that we have cancelled

Growing Deeper for tonight due to the snow storm.

See you on Sunday

devotional :: sabbath rest

2011-03-10T21:04:00.001-05:00

At March's growing deeper group, we talked about the character quality of self control.

Our daily schedule is one area in our lives that must be governed with self control--otherwise our lives are chaotic, hurried and unfocused.

Developing the habit of Sabbath rest is a way for us to exercise that self control over our schedules. Melissa Armstrong has written a devotional that shares her own journey to practicing Sabbath rest. Thanks for sharing it with us Melissa!

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work…” Exodus 20:8-10 (ESV)

When most people are asked to name the Ten Commandments, they can list the directives not to lie, murder, steal, or commit adultery. Tucked in at number four, though, is an oft-neglected command: you shall not work on the Sabbath. We honor God, avoid taking his name in vain, respect our parents, and teach our children about the meaning of “covet.” But what about the Sabbath?

Lest we be tempted to say that God does not take this commandment as seriously as the others, Exodus 31:12-18 says that working on the Sabbath was an Old Testament offense punishable by death (Ex 31:14, 15). God values work, but he also values rest. Additionally, the Sabbath was part of the covenant between God and his people (31:16), a reminder of God’s work (31:17), and a sign that it is God – not work – who makes his people holy (31:13).

I started learning the lesson of Sabbath half-way through medical school, an improbable time for such a lesson. I can testify that while I started keeping the Sabbath because I was convicted by this command, God has been faithful to bless me abundantly through the practice of Sabbath. I have never starved for having delayed grocery shopping. I have never failed a test for having rested on the Sabbath. Rather, I have been bountifully blessed by a day each week to worship without deadlines and to rest and become renewed.

As God taught me the lesson of Sabbath, I found three practical steps to take to follow this command. (1) Commit to following God’s command to rest on the Sabbath. (2) Use week nights and Saturdays wisely, knowing that Sunday is unavailable for work. (3) Enjoy the amazing gift of Sabbath.

God has given us a cure for our hectic lives all along. He commands us to rest.

growing deeper :: self control podcast

2011-03-05T19:47:00.002-05:00

Can you believe it? I TOTALLY forgot to take pics at our February growing deeper group. It was so cute too! We decorated with a Valentine's Day theme.

Oh well. So instead we are using this lame "self control" pic.

Moving on...just wanted to let you know that the self control podcast is available. You can find the link in the right hand column of this blog.

If you were with us for our growing deeper group, you can use the podcast as a refresher.

If you were unable to attend, grab your Character Makeover book and listen to the podcast...you'll get the general idea of the things we chatted about that night.

Oh yeh...and you can click here to download our handout for that night!

Enjoy!

kath

get to know us! :: introducing Carol Morris

2011-02-26T01:10:00.000-05:00

Carol is no stranger to any of us. She was our fearless leader of women's ministry for many years at Calvary Church.

Carol is a very busy lady: travelling the world over encouraging missionaries; being a grandma; ministering at Calvary; visiting shut-ins; and keeping Bob going! Here are her answers to our questions:

1. What is your favourite hobby?

My favourite hobby is swimming.

2. What was your favourite 2010 Christmas gift?

My favourite gift was watching my grandchildren open their gifts.

3. What is your favourite verse?

I don't have a favourite scripture. There are many that are important to me.

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

If I had a million dollars I would give it all away as I have everything I need.

*****

Thanks Carol for taking time to share with us. Carol organizes our delicious Spaghetti Sisters meal from start to finish. Thanks for all your work, we appreciate it.

get to know us! :: introducing Kathy Butryn

2011-02-21T07:53:00.002-05:00

Today it's my turn to introduce myself. My name is Kathy, and I have the privilege of working with an amazing women's ministry team! My hubby, Alan, is one of the Pastors at Calvary Church. (just incase you didn't already know.)

Ok...ready, get set, go...here are my answers to the questions we've been asking our ministry leadership team...

1. What is your favourite hobby?

My new favourite hobby is knitting prayer shawls. (I am a "straight-line" knitter only. Nothing fancy!) I also enjoy strolls around stores full of "previously-loved" items--from antique boutiques to the local Salvation Army Thrift Shop. And reading is my all-time favourite hobby: blogs especially about any topic on homemaking; books on Christian living and spiritual formation; and business books about coaching and helping others grow to their potential.

2. What was your favourite 2010 Christmas gift?

My most favourite was the one from my hubby. My KOBO e-reader. I LOVE it!

3. What is your favourite verse?

Matthew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

Without a doubt, I would buy my dream.

An urban spiritual retreat center in the middle of the noise and hurry of city life. A place where people and church/ministry teams distracted and fragmented by the pace of their lives can come and pause from for an hour, a half-day, or a day to make space for God in their lives and soul and just spend time with Him.

5. What animal best describes your personality?

A Canada Goose. Love them! Love watching the mommas in the spring time taking care of their little ones. (There is always tons of them over around Warden/Eglinton area each spring.) Canada geese are loyal--in fact, I hear they stay with the same mate until death separates them. They know how to work within a team and support each other as they fly south in their traditional "V" formation. They never abandon each other if one is injured. They like the warm weather in the south for a while...and then return back to the great Canadian seasons. That's me. I am loyal, learning to work within teams and support others, learning to be a better leader, like to go south for a short time, and enjoy my Canadian seasons!

So that's me...come by and visit me over at my websites too: KathyButryn.com and The Heart Change Place.com

get to know us! :: introducing Karen Lambshead

2011-02-17T07:31:00.009-05:00

Most of you may already know Karen...at least to see her on Sunday morning. The reason you know her is because she is Pastor Tom's wife. Karen's heart is for women in the community as well as for those who are new to our church...or any church for that matter. Keep on reading to find out more!!

1. What is your favourite hobby?

Reading magazines

2. What was your favourite 2010 Christmas gift?

An Olive Oyl scarf

3. What is your favourite verse?

Isaiah 40:11

"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. (NIV)

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

I would love to travel to as many beaches as I possibly could.

**Maybe Karen and Rosalyn should combine their million dollars!!!!!**

5. What animal best describes your personality?

A turtle...they love to sit on a log in the sun, although I do prefer a comfortable chair!

*****

Thanks Karen for sharing a bit more about you! It's been fun!!

reminder :: here's what's comin' up!

2011-02-13T04:48:00.001-05:00

February 16

Growing Deeper

7:15 pm at Calvary Church

Chapter Four: Self-Control

Download our handout here.

Did you take the challenge?

March 7

Spaghetti Sisters

6 pm at Calvary Church

(sign up at the Welcome Desk!)

March 7

Knitting Club

7 pm at Calvary Church

We've got some great things coming up...hope you can join us!

growing deeper :: courage podcast

2011-02-12T16:45:00.001-05:00

Happy Saturday!

Just dropping by to let you know the podcast link to Chapter Three for Character makeover: Courage is now available!

Click here to listen and/or to hear the other podcasts too!

You can download a copy of our handout from that night too by clicking here.

Have a great weekend...and be sure to mark your calendars for this Wednesday night--our next Growing Deeper on February 16th at 7:15 pm! See you there!

kath

get to know us! :: introducing Rosalyn Elmy

2011-02-11T06:00:00.008-05:00

If you were at our "Everyone Has a Story" Tea Party in December, you will know who I am talkin' about when I say the name Rosalyn Elmy.

Although we got to know Rosalyn a whole lot better that night, we asked her to answer our crazy questions anyways! Here we go....

1. What is your favourite hobby?

Line Dancing!

**now there's something we didn't know about Rosalyn!!!**

2. What was your favourite 2010 Christmas gift?

A handmade stained glass mini lamp.

3. What is your favourite verse?

I Corinthians 13:4-7

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

I'd buy condos on tons of beaches and invite Calvary women over for some vitamin D!

**ok, now she's talkin' our language!!!!**

5. What animal best describes your personality?

It would be a magpie--I'm attracted to glitter!

*****

Thanks Rosalyn! Your "glitter"--from the inside out--lights up our lives. We love you and are praying for you!!!!

ps...are you taking the challenge?

women@calvary purpose :: to know and grow

2011-02-07T07:00:00.015-05:00

Every individual and every organization needs a purpose statement.

A reason why they/it exists.

An alignment tool to filter decisions and direction through.

At women@calvary, we created our vision and our mission statement.

Our mission and vision statement have guided our women's ministry leadership team in both discerning direction and making decisions for the women@calvary ministry.

Not only are the vision and mission statements important tools for the leadership team, they play an important part in helping all the women at Calvary understand more fully the direction of the women's ministry.

There was only one problem.

These two statements are really hard to remember.

So we have combined the essence of our vision and mission statement into our purpose statement:

OUR PUROSE: to know and grow.

Period. That's it. And it's easy to remember!

Check it out here.

Let us know your thoughts...what do you think?

hugs,

kath

ps...are you taking the challenge?

get to know us! :: introducing Melissa Armstrong

2011-02-06T14:56:00.002-05:00

We thought this blog would be a great way for the women@calvary to get to know each other better and to have a snapshot into the lives of the other women we may only see at church once a week.

So the women@calvary ministry team decided to forge the way.

Introducing...Melissa Armstrong

Here are some questions we asked Melissa to answer:

1. What is your favourite hobby?

Knitting!

*and is it ever! Melissa is a mainly self-taught, excellent knitter, and often wears the "fruit of her labours" which we all drool over! Here she is at the knitting club.

2. What was your favourite 2010 Christmas gift?

My favourite Christmas gift is yarn that I picked out on a shopping trip with my mom when I was in Chicago visiting over the holidays. (Stay tuned for the resulting sweater...)

3. What is your favourite verse?

This is a difficult question, as I have different favourite verses for different things.

Romans 10:9 was the verse that led to my childhood decision to have a relationship with Christ.

Ephesians 4:29 is a verse that I often need to keep in mind.

Philippians 4 is probably my favourite chapter, with numerous verses that never cease to speak to me in many different situations.

4. What would you buy yourself if you had a million dollars?

Medical school (I'm still paying off those loans). And then probably a re-visit to Israel.

5. What animal best describes your personality?

I think a beaver (even though I'm not Canadian) because beavers are industrious and hard-working. I also saw one in action at the Montreal Biodome last May and was amazed by how God designed them exactly for their purpose - dexterous front paws for complex tasks, hind paws made for swimming, a tail that helps with swimming and building, etc. I hope and believe that God designed me with such care for the purposes He has for me, too.

*****

Thanks Melissa for sharing with us! It's great to know you better. We are so glad that both Spencer and yourself landed with us at Calvary Church while you finish your Fellowship as a Neurologist. Thank you for your ministry to us!

its a challenge!!! will you take it???

2011-02-02T14:57:00.001-05:00

It was kind of embarrassing.

I was facilitating our growing deeper group on January 19th, and, for the life of me, I couldn't find the book of Esther in my Bible.

Yikes!

I was aware I was getting a bit rusty at locating some of the books of the Old Testament, but I didn't think I was that rusty!

Back to my "Sunday School" days. I knew it was time for an intentional review.

So I extended the challenge to everyone at Growing Deeper to memorize (or re-memorize, whatever the case may be) the books of the Old Testament.

Now, you gals that come out to growing deeper...this is just a challenge reminder! We are now past the half-way point: between our last growing deeper session and the next growing deeper session on February 16th!

I needed a reminder...and I thought it would be a great time to remind all of you too!

Don't come out to growing deeper? No worries!

It's a challenge for everyone!!! Will you take it?

See you on February 16th!

kath

2011-01-28T06:00:00.003-05:00

Fear. It's the flip side of courage. Fear shows its ugly face in our lives in several ways...one of those ways being WORRY and ANXIETY.

The day after our Growing Deeper session on fear, Winona forwarded a devotional she had received that morning written by Max Lucado.

This devotional speaks well to what we had talked about. We hope it encourages you as you become a woman of courage!

God Leads Us

By Max Lucado

“You cannot add any time to your life by worrying about it.” Matthew 6:27

Anxiety is an expensive habit. Of course, it might be worth the cost if it worked. But it doesn’t. Our frets are futile.

Worry has never brightened a day, solved a problem, or cured a disease.

God leads us. God will do the right thing at the right time. And what a difference that makes.

Have a great day...chat with you soon,

hugs,

kath

a courage poem

2011-01-22T17:18:00.001-05:00

At Growing Deeper on Wednesday night, Winona shared a "courage" poem with us...and now we want to share it with you.

It Takes Courage To Be A Christian!

It takes courage to refrain from gossip when others delight in it, to stand up for the absent person who is being abused.

It takes courage to live honestly within your means, and not dishonestly on the means of others.

It takes courage to be a REAL man, a TRUE woman, to hold fast to your ideals when it causes you to be looked upon as strange and peculiar.

It takes courage to be talked about, and remain silent, when a word would justify you in the eyes of others, but which you dare not speak because it would injure another.

It takes courage to refuse to do something that is wrong although everyone else may be doing it with attitudes as carefree as a summer song.

It takes courage to live according to your own convictions, to deny yourself what you cannot afford to love your neighbor as yourself, to follow the example of our risen Lord!

- Author Unknown

a sneak preview :: growing deeper

2011-01-20T21:29:00.001-05:00

Hi there women@calvary!

We had a great night digging into God's Word, exploring chapter three of our Character Makeover book, sharing our "courage" stories, and praying for each other.

The podcast will be available soon...but we thought we'd give you a sneak preview with a few pics!

Winona led our prayer time...

...and then we dug in.

We invite you join us in February when we look at chapter four

of our Character Makeover :: self control.

growing deeper :: character makeover :: it's about courage!

2011-01-17T23:38:00.003-05:00

Hello all you wonderful and amazing women@calvary!!!

Just a wee post about what's coming up on Wednesday January 19th at 7:15 pm at Growing Deeper. We will be gathering in Missionary Hall and digging into the chapter on COURAGE.

Some of you have are wondering if you can still come...even if you haven't read the chapter. The answer is a resounding YES!!! For sure. Come on out. You will be encouraged. It's just a book...there's always time to read it at some point. You will be blessed spending the evening learning with all us gals!

Until then...God bless...

hugs,
kath

happy new year!!!!

2011-01-13T19:14:00.000-05:00

And...here we are. Almost smack in the middle of January.

We sure hope you had a good Christmas season with time for family, friends, a little rest, and a whole bunch of food. And we hope this blog post finds you doing well. We know that many of you (and/or family members) have been fighting this flu bug that has been going around.

Well...are you ready to get going again?

The women@calvary ministry team is.

We got together recently to talk about the first 4 months of women@calvary; to focus on what's happening in the next 6 months; to encourage one another; and to pray together--and to pray for you!

And we are ready to roll again.

Are you?

See you on Wednesday January 19th at 7:15 pm for Growing Deeper. We are going to be looking at Character Makeover - chapter three - courage.

Don't worry if it was such a busy Christmas season that you haven't had time to read chapter three---or you feel rather behind. Come on out anyway. You will be encouraged...and you will be able to catch up in your own way and in your own time!

So see you on the 19th!

We love you lots and are praying for you.

kathy...
for your women@calvary ministry team!

"everyone has a story" tea party

2010-12-21T12:14:00.003-05:00

SPECIAL
REFRESHING
WONDERFUL
PEACEFUL
ENCOURAGING
A TIME OF SHARING
A CELEBRATION

These are the words that the women at our Everyone Has A Story Tea Party used to describe our time together on Monday December 6th.

Great words!

It has also been said that a picture is worth a thousand words...so here are some pictures of our evening that will speak volumes!!!

The tables were decorated beautifully...every lady receiving a book mark and a sample of some Christmas Simmering Scent for their home...and the recipe!

Not only did we enjoy times of just being with each other...

...but there was some deliciousness for us all to enjoy with our tea too!

Beside all the fun activities Rosalyn, our hostess, prepared for us to do...

...each of us had a paper "stocking," and we had the privilege of writing words of encouragement on each other's stocking. What a great gift we each had to take home with us!

Nora shared her own personal story with us (oh my, what an encouragement!) It was a great reminder to each of us that God never wastes our pain!!!

And Deanna ended our evening by reminding us of Mary's story when she sang "Mary Did You Know?"

We have another Everyone Has A Story Tea Party coming up in June! You won't want to miss it!!!

Thanks Rosalyn and Nora (our women@calvary team members leading our Everyone Has a Story Tea Parties) for all your hard work to make this a memorable night for all of us!

growing deeper: overview of our November 10th session on confidence

2010-12-04T18:36:00.000-05:00

Character Makeover: Chapter Two

Confidence

We met with "Christmas in the air" on November 10th...

...enjoying some hot apple cider and Nora's homemade shortbread.

We learn so much from our discussions with each other!

Download your copy of this month's memory verse card and Prayer Tracker.

When is our next Character Makeover Growing Deeper Group?

Wednesday January 19th at 7:15 pm.

Chapter Three: Courage

Love you all lots,

kath

five reasons to come to our {unordinary} tea party on december 6

2010-12-03T13:40:00.000-05:00

Nora and Rosalyn: planning our {unordinary} tea party.

Don't let them fool you. They may be looking at traditional "tea books," but they have some good fun tucked up their sleeves--promising to make a memorable night for all of us! Thanks Nora and Rosalyn!!!

Ok Girls...here are some very good reasons to come on out to our "Everyone Has a Story" Tea Party on Monday December 6 at 7:00 pm. After reading these, you won't want to miss it!!!

REASON NUMBER ONE:

You will laugh--a lot. This is no ordinary tea party!

REASON NUMBER TWO:

You will find out juicy things (hey, we all have stories, what can I say?) about the women@calvary ministry team...so top-secret only Rosalyn, our hostess, knows what will be revealed!

REASON NUMBER THREE:

You will experience sweet friendship with the amazing women@calvary!

REASON NUMBER FOUR:

You will be blessed when you hear Nora's story.

REASON NUMBER FIVE:

You can do two things at once!!!! If you want, bring your knitting...or any other project...because it is also our Knitting Club night. Now that's efficient!!!!

TICKETS?

Just $2.00 each. You can get them at the Welcome Desk on Sunday.

MORE INFO?

Email Kathy at kathy.butryn@gmail.com

See you there!

kath

Have you visited our church blog yet?

confidence - podcast is coming

2010-11-21T20:49:00.000-05:00

Hi! Just a quick post to let you know the podcast for the Character Makeover chapter on Confidence will be available sometime this week.

I have been set back by a cold and coughing fits over the past several weeks, making speaking for longer than a few minutes difficult...but on the mend now! I will be recording very shortly.

Have a great week all you fabulous women@calvary!!!

Love you,

kath

not a knitter? you can still help...share a tim card!

2010-11-16T16:07:00.009-05:00

Hi!

In case we haven't met yet, my name is Karen Lambshead.

I am excited about being on the women@calvary team, leading our community outreach projects--and being able to share about our "Sharing Happiness--One Tim Card At A Time" Christmas project.

For some of us Christmas is the very best time of the year...yes, it can get hectic and stressful as we try to find that perfect gift for a loved one, and attempt to bake shortbread that melts in your mouth!

Unfortunately, for many, Christmas can be a sad and lonely time.

As you may know, a number of ladies from our knitting group have been spending many hours knitting up scarves and hats for our Out of the Cold ministry. They will be well loved and appreciated gifts for our guests that come to our program.

Now, you may not be a knitter but would love to contribute something...well, as part of our Christmas gift bags, we would love to include a $5 Tim Horton's gift card for each person.

We need about 60 cards.

So the next time you run out for a coffee or a tea will you pick up a gift card or two?
You can give your Tim Cards to Sari Vandermeer at the Welcome Desk, to Tara McPherson, our Out of the Cold Co-ordinator, or to myself.
We hope to have all 60+ cards collected by Sunday December 5.
A very thanks to you all in advance of reaching our goal! Your thoughtfulness will make someone's Christmas a little more special.
Karen

good news: looks like we made it!

2010-11-09T23:38:00.004-05:00

Several months ago, the gals of the knitting club took on a very big challenge: to knit a scarf, pair of mittens, or a hat to add to the Christmas gift bags for our Out of the Cold guests.

A big challenge indeed: we needed at least 60 items.

Between working really hard as a knitting club--and extending an invitation to the women of the congregation to join forces with them, it looks like we made it!!!

Yep! At last count, over 75 items have been knit with lots of homemade love!

And more items are on the way! WOO HOO!

Check out this "table of joy!"

Enjoying a "look-over" of the fruits of their labour!

Isn't this a great group shot?! Want to join in? Bring your knitting--or learn how to knit. The knitting club meets the first Monday of every month at 7pm at Calvary Church.

And knitting club: God bless you all...thank you for using your talent and passion for knitting to give to those in need of warmth this winter!! You girls rock!!!

growing deeper: "humility" podcast is now ready

2010-10-31T14:30:00.000-04:00

Just a quick post to let you know that the podcast on humility from chapter one in our Character Makeover is now ready to listen to.

Click here to listen or download

If you were unable to join us on October 20th for our growing deeper group, you can download your personal prayer tracker here...

...and a copy of our memory verse here.

Don't forget to mark your calendars now for our next growing deeper session:

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 10!!

growing deeper: overview of our October 20th session!

2010-10-25T10:28:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday evening of October 20th, we gathered in Calvary's cafe for our 2nd growing deeper session.

And deeper we did go--into probably one of the most challenging, yet by far, the most important and foundational chapter of the book we are studying: Character Makeover.

There were 25 of us all together.

Throughout the course of the evening, we enjoyed sharing and learning from each other in our "round-table" dicussions--at a square table! lol!

Near the end of our evening, we shared with our group the action step we had chosen to take to practice humility--with God's help and by His grace--this week.

Many of the groups prayed with and for each other after sharing their action step.

We recognized that we cannot do this without HIM...and without each other--praying for each other and supporting each other.

If you are following our Character Makeover growing deeper group on-line, have you chosen your action step yet?

We want to be an encouragement to you...again, you can't do it alone. Share your action step with someone. If you like, you can email me (Kathy) and share your action step and I will pray for you...or connect with a friend who is committed to pray with and for you during this Character Makeover adventure.

Speaking of adventures: can't wait until next time--NOVEMBER 10--to hear what God has been up to in your Character Makeover!!! If you can't wait either, why not drop us a line right here on the blog by leaving a comment.

Love you girls. So glad to be on this adventure together!

hugs to you all,
kath

PS...working on the podcast today, should be posted in the next few days!

Oh, one more thing:

Have you dropped our church website lately? How about our leadership blog the pastors write?

Take a few moments to visit...you'll be blessed!

we need help: a message from our knitting club

2010-10-15T10:03:00.001-04:00

Hi women@calvary!

As you may remember from Kathy speaking at church or from reading our website, service is one of the values of women@calvary. And we have a service opportunity for you!

(Melissa Armstrong and Nora Cooper)

Early in the summer, the women@calvary knitting club volunteered to hand knit winter wear to give to each person attending Out of the Cold this Christmas. Our initial target was 60 items, but we’ve recently learned that Out of the Cold is hoping to serve even more this Christmas.

With only about 25 items completed, we have a ways to go in the next 1-1.5 months.

Would you consider helping us out?

If you’d like to knit with us, we’d love to see you at our next knit night (recently rescheduled to November 8th because of a baby shower on the 1st).

You don’t have to knit with us to contribute, though. If you’d like to knit (or crochet!) a hat, scarf, or other winter item on your own, you can find Melissa, Carla, or Nora at church to contribute your item. We’re not picky – straight knit rows are fine (though male or unisex colours are preferred given the typical group make-up)!

Our goal is to share the love of God in a personal and tangible way this winter. After all, God created our inmost beings and knit each one of us in our mothers’ wombs (Psalm 139:13).

Thanks in advance for your help with this project,
Melissa, Carla, & Nora

P.S. We’ll be keeping track of how we’re doing on the side of the blog so you can watch as we approach our goal. Thanks again for your help with this act of service!

meet Sari...and see our prayer request cards

2010-10-04T19:54:00.005-04:00

When you walk through the doors of Calvary Church on a Sunday morning, it will likely be Sari Vandermeer's smiling face that greets you.

Sari coordinates the Welcome Desk at Calvary.

Not only is that great for Calvary Church, but it's also great for women@calvary.

You see, Sari is on our women@calvary ministry team--and because you see her pretty much every Sunday, she is like our "point-person" for women@calvary.

For instance, if you have any questions about what's happening in the women@calvary ministry, just head to the Welcome Desk and Sari will make sure you have the information you need.

Or maybe you have a prayer request. Drop by and see Sari and she will give you a women@calvary prayer request card that looks like this:

Fill it out and hand it back to her, and she will be sure our prayer team not only gets it--but prays for you as well.

After all, isn't that what it's all about?

Have a great week!

kathy

we are on talkshoe!

2010-10-01T00:44:00.001-04:00

Uh-huh! It's true--women@calvary has our own little spot over at TALKSHOE.

Go grab a cup of coffee or tea, curl up in your favourite chair, click the play button, and you can listen to our growing deeper sessions!

If you want to listen on the go, download our podcast to your ipod or mp3 player.

Enjoy!

a message to us...from Katie

2010-09-30T10:10:00.000-04:00

This is fun! It's a personal message from Katie Brazelton, one of the authors of Character Makeover (the book we are using for this year's growing deeper at women@calvary)...to all of us
Here it is:

I send each and every one of you my prayers and love.

You are embarking on an exciting journey.

Take time to consistently prepare your heart for change...

and don't forget to enjoy the process.

Exhale, smile, dance and sing more!

Like Bartimeus in Mark 10:46-52, have a reply when Jesus asks you,

"What do you want me to do for you?"

Love and hugs to you all,

Katie

Thanks Katie! We love you too!!!

our first night at growing deeper...

2010-09-22T21:52:00.000-04:00

...and it was AMAZING!
Here we all are...and we give God all the praise!

Did you miss it? Don't worry, you can join in next month.

Meanwhile, pick up your Character Makeover book at church on Sunday morning ($15.00 each).

Find out more about growing deeper here.

Have a great week everyone!

Love you all!!
k

good news. bad news. more good news.

2010-09-20T21:28:00.000-04:00

Ok, so there is some good news...then some bad news...and then, yeah...more good news.

1. The good news: Nearly 50 women have signed up to join our growing deeper group.

2. The bad news: We ran out of Character Makeover books. Not one to be found in bookstores in Toronto.

Soooo...26 more copies were ordered today!

3. More good news: The books will arrive for Sunday...and if you don't have your book yet, no worries. We'll make sure you have everything you need on Wednesday night.

See you on Wednesday September 22 at 7:15 pm at Calvary Church to begin our Character Makeover!

oops! I made a boo-boo!

2010-09-15T23:52:00.000-04:00

Ok, so maybe it's not a big boo-boo, but to me it kinda is.

In my (Kathy) effort to be as ~~quick~~ efficient with time as possible during Real Time on Sunday morning, I missed the perfect opportunity to introduce the amazing women who are serving on the women@calvary team.

Rats! And it would have worked out so well--they were all right there in the room with us!

Anyways, although not as good as a face-to-face introduction, I'm going to attempt a cyber-introduction.

So women at Calvary...meet the team!

carla eastwood

A busy mom of two young kids, you may find Carla working in Kingdom-Bound Kids, singing on one of Calvary's worship teams...or the "founder" of our knitting club. Carla loves to see women of all generations gather together and encourage each other by sharing their stories.

rosalyn elmy

Over the years, Rosalyn has enjoyed working with couples in strengthening their marriages. She has also owned her own business as an interior decorator and now owns a jewelry business. Rosalyn brings her talent of creating beauty and her gift of hospitality to our Everyone Has A Story Tea Parties.

melissa armstrong
We are delighted to have Melissa with us on the team this year. As a Neurologist, Melissa is nearing the end of her Fellowship here in Toronto, but we are going to keep her as long as we possibly can!! Among other things, Melissa is a talented, self-taught knitter, so co-facilitating our knitting club with Carla is a perfect match for her!

nora cooper
If you attend the knitting club, it won't take you long to discover that Nora is an amazing knitter--and our "go-to" gal for any knitting problems or questions! Nora is involved in several committees at Calvary, and brings her creative talent and awesome gift of hospitality to our Everyone Has A Story Tea Parties.

carol morris

We all love Carol. She has served the women at Calvary Church for many years. Carol oversees our hospitality ministry, visits shut-ins, and travels all over the world with her husband, ministering to missionaries. We are delighted that she has agreed to facilitate one of our favourite times to get together...Spaghetti Sisters!

winona magno

A busy mom of twins, you may know Winona best as one of Calvary's worship team leaders. Besides music, Winona's heart and passion is to provide women an opportunity to pray together--and for each other. Winona is our prayer facilitator at Growing Deeper.

carol frew

Carol has been facilitating our young mom's Bible study for many years, and has had the privilege of walking alongside and encouraging many of Calvary's moms in this important season of their "mommy years."

sari vandermeer

When you come to Calvary Church on Sunday mornings, Sari will likely be one of the first faces you see--she serves at our Welcome Center. Sari's caring and sensitive heart makes her a perfect fit to connect with our women@calvary on Sundays--especially to receive any of your prayer requests or answer any of your questions. Sari is also one of our facilitators at Growing Deeper.

kathy butryn

Like many of the other members of the women@calvary team, Kathy has had a passion for ministry to women for most of her adult life. She lends leadership to the women@calvary team and is one of the facilitators of Growing Deeper.

off to a great beginning!!!

2010-09-12T20:58:00.000-04:00

Well, it's hard to believe, but our Kick-Off Sunday has come and gone! It was great to see--and connect with everyone again as we all gathered back at Calvary after summer vacations.

A lot of you dropped by our women@calvary table today to say hi, get a copy of this year's women@calvary dates, and sign up for growing deeper.

Can you believe it? So far, 23 women have signed up to join us as we journey though the book Character Makeover. Want to find out more about growing deeper, sign up or reserve a book. Send us an email, and we'll be happy to help you!

In fact, we had to order more books this afternoon (and are crossing our fingers that they arrive before next Sunday!!!).

Needless to say, we wait expectantly on God for a great year of growing deeper in our relationship with Jesus and building an impactful and lasting legacy--to His glory!

Have a great week!

they have arrived

2010-09-01T06:53:00.000-04:00

Character Makeover is the book we will be using in our Growing Deeper group this year...and a stack of copies have arrived at my doorstep. They will be available to purchase for 15.00 starting Sunday September 5. See you on Sunday.

k

getting ready!

2010-08-24T00:02:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe--but it's true! Fall is just around the corner.

As we bid farewell to summer, we embrace the start of the women's ministry season of 2010-2011 at Calvary Church. And we're gettin' ready!

Here are a few September dates to mark on your calendar now:

September 12: Kick-off Sunday
September 13: Knitting Club - 7pm at the church
September 22: Growing Deeper - 7:15 at the church

Stay tuned to this blog for everything and anything "women@calvary." Meanwhile...enjoy the rest of your summer!

kathy