Greetings friends! I appreciate every opportunity to preview the way ahead at Sherwood Park Alliance, and on this beautiful fall Friday I want you to know that I’m kick starting a new teaching series this weekend on the New Testament book of James. James is one of the most celebrated and most criticized biblical books. Some early believers questioned its inclusion in the Scriptures, and the great Reformer, Martin Luther, condemned it because he thought part of it contradicted the Apostle Paul (we’ll talk about that when the time comes!).Despite the criticisms made against it, this powerful letter persistently works its way into the hearts and affections of people of faith. It’s practical, it’s direct, it’s vivid, and it’s encouraging. It’s also stretching, with one of the best examples of this showing up right off the top when James says: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy!” Excuse me? How does THAT make any sense? Pray for me as I take a run at some sense making around that section on Saturday night and Sunday!Please keep scrolling...there’s info below on making a practical difference in our community along with suggestions for getting better connected.Be well everyone,Greg Hochhalter | Lead PastorWe Care Food DriveThis Saturday, October 15, will be our last day to collect food items for our WeCare Food Drive, supporting our We Care Ministry. We have a team that meets each Sunday in a parking lot downtown and provides bagged lunches and donated clothes to people who are in need or may be experiencing homelessness. The love and word of Jesus are shared. We are looking for non perishable food items - please see here for more information. THANK YOU to everyone who has supported this collection drive through the Thanksgiving Season! Items will be delivered on Sunday Oct. 16. Clothing ExchangeBring what you've outgrown and take what you need! Tomorrow, on October 15th we will be hosting our Clothing Exchange event! This is a big event we hold to serve our church and surrounding community. Clothing or household items can be dropped off TODAY, October 14, starting at 4pm through 11am on October 15th.You don't have to donate to attend.Items:All clothing must be washed and clean.Items accepting: Men, women and children's clothing, footwear, belts, purses, small household items, small children's toys, and booksItems not accepted: Car seats, sports equipment, helmets, furniture, damaged goodsPizza with the PastorIf you are new or feel new, join us to learn more about our church. Discover how to get connected and enjoy the opportunity to meet others.Pizza with the Pastor is a regular event we hold, as a way for you to meet others who are new(er), as well as some of the pastoral team.Pizza with the Pastor will be held after each service on October 29 and 30. When you register you can select which class you'll be attending.If are unable to join us in person please email us for an online option.GroupsGroups are a gathering of people from all walks of life where you are invited into a place of deep community, where you can be known, loved, and encouraged to grow in your walk with Jesus.Did you know that we have many different Medium Sized Groups to get involved with? You can join any time!Wednesday Gents Calling men ages 30-45. We read through a book of the Bible, applying what we read into our walk as men/husbands/fathers/employees. Some weeks it is a social time to play and do 'manly' things. Weekly on Wednesdays at 7:00 pmMonday Women's Cafe Calling women of all ages and stages of life who long for great conversation and connection. Come when you can, leave when you must. Bring a craft to work on, a game to play, bring a friend, come by yourself, discover new friends. Connection and spiritual conversation awaits. (Random dates on Mondays 7 pm).Thursday Young Adults For young adults, ages 18-29. We meet weekly on Thursdays @ 7pm. Follow us on Instagram @spac_yaBoomers Are you part of this lively generation of Boomers (age 50-70ish)? We gather monthly for a great time of casual community. Please bring a snack to share. Meets last Friday of the month at 7 pm.Daybreak A medium sized group for women in all life stages. A time for connection, community, and conversation around daily life and faith. Meets Wednesday at 9:30am.For more information on Groups, please contact [email protected].