April e-News

♥♥♥ OUR HEARTBEAT ♥♥♥

Women of Heart – April 23, 2011

He is Risen! He's Alive!

What a message of hope came Easter morning for those disciples wondering if their loyalty to Jesus was wrong! They got to wake up from what must have seemed like a bad dream and start the process of new understanding about who and what the Kingdom of God was all about.

As we enjoy spring and Easter let's focus on both... the huge price Jesus paid by giving his life and the huge love that freed us from paying the price ourselves. He paid it all! Thank you God for sending your beloved Son to pay my bill so I can belong to you.

It is humbling that He, who paid such a huge price, would let us be engaged in reaching out to those who are the least of these - those who are ignored - those who are brutally treated. It is with amazement and gratitude that our combined efforts have allowed us to surpass our fundraising goals. The amount that is on its way to Ratanak Foundation for foster care for girls rescued from brothels in Cambodia exceeds $19,000.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 25:37-40:
"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me--you did it to me.'"

Let us continue to do good, be generous and share - in our families, our city and our world!

I love Women of Heart!
Verna Ratzlaff (Your volunteer leader)
Women of Heart

April 21 - Spring Gala - Party with a Purpose

It's hard to believe that our Winter/Spring 2011 term concludes this week (except for a few groups that are extended to complete their material). Our gala event is a celebration for everyone. We would love to have you join us for the morning.

Even though both spring and Easter are late to arrive on our calendar this year, we have so much to hope for. We are grateful for the time we get to spend together. You are invited...

Thursday, April 21, 2011 - Spring Gala - Party with a Purpose

9:15-11:15 a.m. - Center Street Church Chapel and Chapel Lobby (West Entrance - Central Campus)
Silent Auction - raising funds and awareness for young girls rescued from Cambodian brothels
Continental Breakfast
Music by Paul Ungless and Harmony through Harmony
Silent Auction Details -

Donated auction items will be displayed around the perimeter of the chapel and will be ready for bids by 9:15 a.m. Please print your name clearly as you make bids. The amount of time you can bid in each section will be clearly marked. As a section closes, an "auctioneer" will use a highlighter pen to mark the final line - you will have the fun of checking if you won the item(s) you bid for.

Check and pick up items with your winning bid. (bags will be available)
Take your bid sheets to the checkout center to pay.
Pay by cash, cheque, debit or credit card.
Cheques should be made out to Ratanak Foundation.
Auction purchases do not qualify for tax receipts.
Other donations of $20 and higher qualify for tax receipts.
Results will be sent in WofH's April e-News!

"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'" Matthew 25:37-40

Verna (volunteer leader)
Women of Heart
Connecting | Transforming | Mobilizing

March E-News

♥♥♥ OUR HEARTBEAT ♥♥♥

"Better to be patient than powerful;..." Prov. 16:32a "A cheerful heart is good medicine..." Prov. 17:22a

Our theme, Embracing Our Brokenness, exploring the journey of hope through patience and longsuffering, has been personalized in my life through my sister's suffering with leukemia, a stem cell transplant and the long road to recovery that we see ahead. I hope that I have become a more capable and courageous influencer in my home, neighborhood and world. Thank you for your prayers and encouraging words each week.

Looking ahead at important to Women of Heart things:

• Mar. 24 - Tomorrow our all-group event will feature Wendy Lowe, director of Calgary Pregnancy Care Center sharing stories of Hope. In addition you will have several opportunities.
• Mar. 24 Opportunities for You

1. Bring quality journals and/or baby/mom items for CPCC
2. Choose from the Justice Cafe menu of options for our April 21 Fundraiser
3. Sign up for a Women of Heart Team personal contact
4. Offer suggestions for future topics/skills for Women of Heart
5. Give an offering to assist with the weekly thank you $$ we bless our consistent children's ministry team with.

• Mar. 31 - Spring Break school age guests (older kids) have the option to check in with Courageous Camels (there will be enough adults and space) OR join you to share the experience of your class OR join the Winter Potpourri group.If you have a family vacation planned during this week, we'll miss you and bless you to enjoy a wonderful time with your dear ones.
• Mar. 31 - The "La Boutique" group will have a "free" market for used items that have been brought in through the winter that is open to everyone - 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Apr. 21 - all-group event - will feature a silent auction organized by the Justice Cafe.

See you tomorrow!

I love Women of Heart!