SCOTTISH DANCE
The Hertzsprung small group is hosting a ceilidh (pronounced 'caylee') this Friday, March 27 at 7:30 pm at the seminary in Cochrane. A ceilidh is a Scottish dance, similar to square dancing.  Everyone is welcome!  Wear comfortable shoes and clothes (you'll get warm!) and bring along drinks or a snack to share.
 
YOUTH
For youth this week, we will be going to the Ceilidh (see above). We won't be having youth next week, April 3. On April 10 we will be having an Easter egg scavenger hunt... more details to come!
 
MARRIAGE SEMINAR
Just a reminder that Tapestry is sponsoring a "Fireproof Your Marriage" seminar on Saturday, April 4 (9:30 - 12:30) at the Tuscany Club.  The seminar will provide practical help to strengthen and protect your marriage.  Cost: $10 per couple with free childcare available.  If you haven't yet signed up, please do so online by clicking here. 
 
MISSION OPPORTUNITY!
Paul and Lynn Hanthorn and their seven children serve above the Arctic Circle in Ft. McPherson, NWT.  Paul and Lynn have been up north as church planting missionaries for 17 years, seeking to love, serve and reach their community for Christ.  With the generous support of our church family, Tapestry was able to send a care package full of gifts and practical items to bless the Hanthorns at Christmas - and they were left speechless!  
 
We have an opportunity to continue developing a relationship with the Hanthorns.  This July, they are building a church in their community and they're looking for 60 volunteers to help with the project.  If there is sufficient interest, Tapestry would love to send a team to be part of the effort.  Most of the ticketed trades positions are filled, but they still need framers, drywallers, tapers and a bunch of other willing and able workers.  We may also be able to help run a VBS or be involved in other community outreach while others help with the actual building of the church. 
 
Plans are to start the church building project on Monday, July 21 and it should take roughly a week to complete.  Opportunities for some "tourist" activities (flights to the Arctic Ocean, tour of Tuktoyaktuk, whale watching over the Baltic Sea, etc...) could be organized following completion of the project.  Cost per person will depend on how the team from Tapestry made their way to Ft. McPherson.
 
If you're interested in exploring the opportunity further, please let Steve Rathje or Kim Pangracs know as soon as possible.  In the mean time, please remember the project and Tapestry's possible involvement before the Lord in prayer.

SERMON FOLLOW-UP
Thinking about last Sunday's message on Acts 9:32-43...

• A key point:  God's greatest miracle is a life saved and transformed by Jesus Christ
• For further reflection:  Will you let God do His greatest miracle in your life?  Have you trusted Christ to save you?  What area of your life do you need to bring under His transforming power and control?

SERMON SCRIPTURE
This week, we'll be looking at Acts 10:1-48.  Check it out ahead of time!

GOD'S WORD IN YOU
Here's the memory verse for this week:  Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6 NIV).

LIFE OF PAUL
Beginning this Sunday, Josh Tait will lead a 4-week study that looks at the unparalleled life and ministry of the apostle Paul.  After a powerful encounter with Jesus, Paul went from being a persecutor of believers to being persecuted for his role in spreading the good news about Christ, and eventually martyred.  He was the first organized missionary in history and the letters he wrote make up almost two thirds of our New Testament. Come learn and grow on Sunday, March 22, 29, April 5 & 12 from 6:30 - 9:00 pm.  Please sign-up by contacting Josh at 403-851-0338 or by email at joshuahtait@gmail.com. 
 
WEEKEND TO REMEMBER - LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER!
A weekend away to help you and your spouse slow down, reconnect and recharge your relationship.  Sponsored by FamilyLife Canada, "Weekend to Remember" is a fun, practical, and life changing marriage conference being held April 17-19 at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Jasper.  Deadline to register for Tapestry's reduced group rate is Friday.  For more information or to register, please contact Max or Lynda Blazina at 403-288-6615.  
 
FRIDAY NIGHT PRAYER
Come on out this Friday, March 20 at 7:00 pm to Max & Lynda's place for time together in prayer.  Afterward, we'll hang out and play some games.
 
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE?
The Hertzsprung small group is hosting a ceilidh (pronounced 'caylee') on Friday, March 27 at 7:30 pm at the seminary in Cochrane. A ceilidh is a Scottish dance, similar to square dancing. Everyone is welcome!
 
YOUTH
Last week, the youth had an awesome time swimming at Westside followed by some frosties and fries. This Friday (March 20), we will be having a Bible Study - Chapter 4 - at the Genn's house. Feel free to bring a little snack. Next week (March 27), we'll be going to the ceilidh ('caylee') at the seminary (see details above).  Please let Josh & Kelly (403-668-1479) know if you are coming!
 
We would love to send a group up to Summer Youth Celebration, July 14-19. We will be providing more information shortly, or check it out at www.summeryouthcelebration.com/ab

COMING EVENTS
Just a reminder that you can check out Tapestry's Calendar (at the bottom of our main web page) for upcoming activities and events.  Coming soon...Fireproof Your Marriage (April 4), Understanding & Applying the Bible (April 24 & 25), Men vs. Women Laser Tag (April 25), Tuscany Community Clean-up (May 9) and an International Dinner (May 23).
 
GETTING TO KNOW OUR LEADERS
This week, we'll learn more about Bob Shelton who serves as one of Tapestry's elders:

• Born:  Portsmouth, Virginia
• A little about Bob:  I grew up in a small town in Southern Illinois. I did not attend church much but in my teen years started going to church to play on the basketball team. Through the prayers and love of those folks I became a Christ follower. It's hard to believe that was 40 years ago. My current ministry assignment besides serving as an elder at Tapestry is working as the National Team Leader for Church Strengthening with the Canadian National Baptist Convention. My great passion is to encourage and develop the next generation of leaders. My hearts desire is to leave a legacy of faith to my children and grandchildren. Deb and I have been married for 36 years. We have 4 children and 5 grandchildren. The purpose of my life is to help my family and others to enjoy the journey with Jesus, stay the course and finish well.
• Favorite Movie:  My Life
• Favorite Music:  All types, especially jazz and blue grass
• Favorite Place:  Anywhere there is a sandy beach and warm weather
• Favorite Pastimes:  Hanging out with family, playing tennis, taking reflective walks, riding my motorcycle
• Favorite Scripture:  Psalm 78:72  "And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them."

SERMON FOLLOW-UP
Thinking about last Sunday's message on Acts 9:19-31...

• A key point:  Three themes that run throughout the book of Acts are: (1) Christians are those who are filled with the Spirit and are Spirit-driven; (2) Christians are those who have an evangelistic ministry, whose preaching is Christ-centered; and (3) Christians are those who live in community, who are community-nurtured.
• For further reflection:  How can we surrender our lives to the Holy Spirit and let him control and direct our lives? What is the gospel message which we preach?  How did the early church demonstrate community-nurtured living? How can we do the same?

SERMON SCRIPTURE
This week, we'll be looking at Acts 9:32-43.  In the passage, we'll be introduced to a woman named Dorcas (Tabitha) who cared for and ministered to those in need in very practical ways.  Has God provided a Dorcas in your life, someone who came alongside to minister to you during a time of need?  If so, you'll have an opportunity to share at church this week your story of God's kindness and generosity demonstrated through His people. 

GOD'S WORD IN YOU
Here's the memory verse for this week:  I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13 NIV).

CURLING
Everyone (12 & older) is invited to a fun afternoon of curling this Saturday, March 14 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm at the Springbank Curling Club (click here for map).  No experience necessary!  Cost is $10 per person (broom/slider rentals are available for an additional $3 at the rink).  If you haven't already signed up, please RSVP by contacting Steve at 403-375-0061 or by email at steve@tapestrycalgary.com.  Bring a friend and come on out!
 
TAX RECEIPTS
Receipts for January to December 2008 giving will be available at church this Sunday.  If you need your receipt sooner than this, please contact Kevin Napady at 403-208-1318 or by email at kjnapady@shaw.ca.
 
STUDY ON PAUL
The apostle Paul went from being the persecutor of Christianity to being persecuted for his role in Christianity, and eventually martyred.  He was the first organized missionary in history and the letters he wrote make up almost two thirds of our New Testament. Join Josh Tait as he leads a four week study that will examine the life and missionary endeavors of Paul.  Sunday, March 22, 29, April 5 & 12 from 6:30 - 9:00 pm (location to be determined).  Please sign-up by contacting Josh at 403-851-0338 or by email at joshuahtait@gmail.com. 
 
MARRIAGE SEMINAR
Tapestry is sponsoring a "Fireproof Your Marriage" seminar on Saturday, April 4 (9:30 - 12:30) at the Tuscany Club.  The seminar will provide practical help to strengthen and protect your marriage.  Cost: $10 per couple with free childcare available.  Please sign up online. 
 
WEEKEND TO REMEMBER
A weekend away to help you and your spouse slow down, reconnect and recharge your relationship.  Sponsored by FamilyLife Canada, "Weekend to Remember" is a fun, practical, and life changing marriage conference being held April 17-19 at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Jasper.  For more information or to register, please contact Max or Lynda Blazina at 403-288-6615.  Brochures are also available at church.
  
GETTING TO KNOW OUR LEADERS
This week, we'll learn more about Thom Gordon who serves as one of Tapestry's elders:

• Born:  Edmonton, Alberta
• A little about Thom:  Thom has been an engineer and computer professional for over 30 years. Thom and his wife, Lorie, have 5 fabulous children and 5 wonderful grandchildren so far (another is due later in 2009). They spent 13 years in the Middle East where Thom learned what the love of God feels like when the going gets tough.  Living in a Middle Eastern culture helped put the Bible into perspective in a profound way.  Since he was a child, Thom was never satisfied with the world's answers.  His wife Lorie helped him discover that Christ is clearly the answer he sought.  Thom has developed a profound love for Christ, who best personifies why God created us and who He is in our lives.  Thom is still a work in progress, trying to find ways to thank God for the unbelievable gift he gave to us in Christ Jesus.
• Favorite Movie:  The Gods Must Be Crazy (I and II)
• Favorite Music:  Just about anything - especially country!
• Favorite Place:  Athens, Greece
• Favorite Pastimes:  Building and Fixing Stuff, Long Hikes in natural or historical settings, Music (listening and plunking a guitar), Writing
• Favorite Scripture:  Psalm 31:21 - "Praise be to the Lord, for he showed his wonderful love to me when I was in a besieged city."  Also 31:22 "In my alarm I said 'I am cut off from your sight!' Yet you heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help."  (1991, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia - The Gulf War)

SERMON FOLLOW-UP
Thinking about last Sunday's message on Acts 9:1-19...

• A key point:  Genuine conversion yields a Godly transformation.
• For further reflection: In what way is God transforming your life to be more like Jesus Christ these days?  Is there something you won’t allow God to change in you?

SERMON SCRIPTURE
This week, we'll be looking at Acts 9:19-31.  Check it out ahead of time!

GOD'S WORD IN YOU
Here's the memory verse for this week:  For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.  As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him (Psalm 103:11-13 NIV).

**DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME REMINDER - Don't forget to move your clocks ahead by one hour on Saturday night!**

LEARNING ABOUT MORMONISM
A last minute reminder that Tapestry is hosting an "Understanding Mormonism" session tomorrow, Thursday, March 5 at 7:00 pm at the Tuscany Club.  The session will be led by Dr. James Walker, a former fourth generation Mormon and renowned expert on the faith.  If you have Mormon friends or neighbors, or are just interested in learning more about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, then this is something you won't want to miss!  If you haven't yet signed up, but would like to attend, please contact Steve at steve@tapestrycalgary.com.  Please note that childcare is not provided.
 
FRIDAY NIGHT PRAYER
Everyone is invited for prayer and celebration of the Lord's Supper this Friday, March 6 at 7:00 pm at Max & Lynda Blazina's (37 Tuscany Springs Circle).  Afterward, we'll hang out, visit and play some games.  
 
MARRIAGE SEMINAR
Tapestry is sponsoring a "Fireproof Your Marriage" seminar on Saturday, April 4 (9:30 - 12:30) at the Tuscany Club.  The seminar will provide practical help to strengthen and protect your marriage.  Cost: $10 per couple with free childcare available.  Please sign up online. 
 
CURLING
Everyone (12 & older) is invited to a fun afternoon of curling on Saturday, March 14 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm at the Springbank Curling Club (click here for map).  No experience necessary!  Bring a friend and come on out.  Cost is $10 per person (broom/slider rentals are available for an additional $3 at the rink).  Please sign up at church or contact Kevin Napady at 403-208-1318.

STUDY ON PAUL
As we journey through Acts, we're going to meet a man that has left an impression on the world like few in history have:  the Apostle Paul. Next to Jesus Christ, he is likely to have influenced the development of Christianity more than any other person. The apostle Paul went from being the persecutor of Christianity to being persecuted for his role in Christianity, and eventually martyred. He was the first organized missionary in history and the letters he wrote make up almost two thirds of our New Testament. In this four week study, we will examine in depth the life and missionary endeavors of this enigmatic character. Who was he?  What did he do?  And how did he do it?  Join us Sunday, March 22, 29, April 5 & 12 from 6:30 - 9:00 pm (location to be determined).  Please sign-up by contacting Josh Tait at 403-851-0338 or by email at joshuahtait@gmail.com.
 
GETTING TO KNOW OUR LEADERS
Tapestry is led by a team of elders who shepherd, oversee, lead and care for the local church as we follow Jesus together. Steve Rathje serves as our pastor/lead elder. Bob Shelton, Max Blazina and Thom Gordon serve with Steve as elders in spiritual ministry to the church.  To help you get to know our leaders a little better, we're going to provide a profile of each over the next several weeks.  This week, we'll learn more about Steve:

• Born:  Norman, Oklahoma
• A little about Steve:  For many years, Steve had a stirring in his heart for greater ministry involvement.  After working in Human Resources for many years, God opened a door for Steve to serve as pastor at Tapestry early in 2008.  With no formal bible college or seminary training, Steve is humbled to serve in this way - an example that "God doesn't necessarily call the qualified, but qualifies the called."  He and his wife Marilyn have been married for 17 years and are the proud parents of three great kids:  Sara, Jana and Jonah.  Steve's passion is seeing people hunger for and experience an authentic, personal and growing relationship with Jesus.
• Favorite Book (other than the Bible):  "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers
• Favorite Music:  Just about anything - except country!
• Favorite Place:  Oregon coast
• Favorite Pastimes:  Camping, mission trips, being by the ocean, prayer walks, playing games, hanging out with family and good friends.
• Favorite Scripture:  Isaiah 41:10 - "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

SERMON FOLLOW-UP
Thinking about last Sunday's message on Acts 8:26-40...

• A key point:  God is at work all around us.  May we have eyes to see, ears to hear and willing hearts to obey - one step at a time - when He invites us to join Him in the amazing things He is doing.
• For further reflection:  Have you done the last thing God asked you to do?  If not, why not?

SERMON SCRIPTURE
This week, we'll be looking at Acts 9:1-19.  Check it out ahead of time and read how an obsessed Christian killer had a life-changing encounter with Jesus.

GOD'S WORD IN YOU
Here's the memory verse for this week:  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9 NIV).