We look forward to worshiping this weekend with our friend, Reverend Ed Adcock, who will be preaching the Word and Pastor Michael Berg who will be sharing the LORD’s Supper at the Communion table. Pastor Ed’s message will focus on Freedom in Christ Jesus from Romans 8:1-17.

We also want to wish our church family and friends a Happy 4^th of July Weekend and the change of pace to celebrate. Part of what makes July 4^th so special is when we pause to give thanks to God for the freedom we enjoy to freely worship our LORD and Savior. May we all take the opportunity this Sunday to gather with others in Church to worship, praise and give thanks to our good and loving God.

Magnified VBS was a hit! Our second year restarting VBS brought in nearly 100 registrants for our evening VBS, not including the nearly 80 students who participated during the day through our Learning Center. We magnified the Lord all week as we learned about his care, love, forgiveness, and faithfulness towards us. We saw

the BIGNESS of God in the smallest of things as we studied the Bible, played games, did crafts, and had all sorts of fun together. On top of it all, we raised nearly $1500 for Peoria Grown, a ministry focused on providing fresh produce to food deserts around Peoria. Our Missions Committee has decided to match $1000, bringing our total given to Peoria Grown to $2500!

One last note, we need to recognize the unsung heroes of the week – our decorations team of Lisa Kesse, Karen Unger and Katie Unger. They worked tirelessly to transform our church into an amazing space for the kids to enjoy! THANK YOU to them and to all volunteers who brought the Word of God to the kids of our community!

Michael Berg

Lay Pastor

Our current playground for kids is over 25 years over. To leave a legacy for children, we plan to upgrade the playground area with a collaborative effort of support. So many families & groups currently use the playground. Poster boards will be on display in the lobby areas detailing plans to enhance and create an inviting area for kids and families. For more information contact Jim Garner (309.439.1833) or Steve Rollins in the church office (309.691.6322).

Thank you!

Jim Garner

YPM ~ MEXICO MISSION TRIPS – 2026

https://www.ypmusa.org/

Each week will include 12 to 14 participants (though there’s always room for one more!). Participants are welcome — and encouraged — to stay for multiple weeks!

Typical Weekly Schedule
● Tuesday: Travel to Mexico
● Wednesday–Saturday: Mission project work
● Sunday: Worship and cultural immersion with a local Mayan community
● Monday: Group-selected fun day
● Tuesday: Return home

🛠 Project Focus
This year, we’ll continue construction efforts by working on the second building on the IYPM campus. Each week will also include interactions with local university and high school students, offering meaningful cross-cultural engagement.

❄ Why Go?
January and February can be chilly here — it’s a great time to head south and make a lasting impact while
staying warm!

To reserve your spot and for more information contact

Jim Wittmer at jimwittmer@comcast.net.

If you haven’t yet signed up for a 20-minute prayer spot for PRAY NOW CHURCH! you can do that here http://www.northminster.us/pnc.