We wanted to share some exciting news about the program starting in September.  We are adding a middle school group to Pioneer Girls. This new class will be for 7^th -9^th graders.  It will look a lot like the traditional PG classes, but, our focus for these emerging young women is for small group discipleship, leadership training, life skill development, service projects, and some fun events…all enveloped in a community that is just right for the age of these girls. 

The group would meet at regular PG time:  4:00-5:30 on Wednesdays. We hope families with girls this age will consider being a part of this new group. If you’re interested, let us know if you are thinking of participating.  This will help us plan for the year. 

Also, please be praying about our need for leaders this coming year.  We are looking for lead teachers from New Life in Christ Church, but also specialized “unit” leaders who can lead/teach specific skills for just 1-2 class times during the year.  We also need nursery leaders.  

We are looking forward to seeing all that God will do through PG this year as well as continuing to lay a sure foundation in these girls’ lives (Isaiah 33:6). Thank you for praying and participating faithfully each year.

Warmly in Christ,

Dorinda McConnell and Sharon Leaman

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Sandy’s Testimony About Pioneer Girls: I was recruited to assist with Pioneer Girls in 1998 when my daughter, Miriam, was entering as a “Scooter” at 4 years old.  I was placed in the 5^th and 6^th grade “Trailblazer” group.  I also became the official photographer for the church club.  As a child, I did not enjoy clubs such as Girl Scouts because the girls and leaders in my group were rather snobby, and I felt like an outsider who did not measure up.  I was not sure if I would find this to be different, but it was.  The curriculum was very Christ-centered and emphasized the Bible as our authority for every aspect of our lives.  Pioneer Girls teaches not only life skills like sewing, cooking, and first-aid, but also offers badges on friendship, social skills, and family.  These badges always point to the gospel and the scriptures to help the girls learn how to be a good friend,  sibling, or daughter.  The girls practice using God’s Word to evaluate their choices in friends, media, clothing, and service.  We have had some awesome discussions on a wide range of topics from bullying and cliques to conflict resolution and honoring God with our speech, and, of course, we go down many rabbit trails.  Who can predict how God will use these conversations in their lives?   I have probably learned as much as the girls.  I really enjoy getting to know the girls through Pioneer Girls.  I have found that it provides a solid foundation for continuing friendships as they grow up.  My daughter learned things in club that I probably never would have attempted with her, particularly sewing, candle-making, orienteering, sign language, and many of the crafts.  I can handle broadcasting, but my sewing skills are very rudimentary.  Being in club allowed Miriam to learn skills from other women and even to still consider those ladies as friends.  Also, being very social, Miriam loved hanging out with the other girls and making friends.  Club is a great place to learn how to get along with others, a skill that must be deliberately pursued.  If you would have asked me 20 years ago if I would be teaching kids in Pioneer Girls or home schooling, I would have thought, “no way.”  However, God dragged me reluctantly into both areas, and over time I grew to see that God could use me in those ways and even to enjoy doing them.  You may contact Sandy at cyberstandra@verizon.net.

• {New!} VBS Closing Ceremony Picnic | Friday, July 31, 6 pm – 7:30 pm {11925 Burgess Lane}
  Our closing ceremony picnic is a new VBS ministry this year.  The church is providing hot dogs; attendees are asked to bring sides.  It will be a time to socialize and have the kids share a little of their week with their parents.  They will sing and there will be some of their crafts on display.  Contact: Carrie Verbosky
• Blood Drive | Thursday, August 6 (Appointments available from 2 pm – 7 pm)
  To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call the church office.  Remember to drink plenty of water, eat a good meal, and bring a photo ID. Contact: Church Office | 540-786-4848 | nlicc@nlicc.org
• “Back to School” Women’s Prayer Breakfast | Saturday, August 8, 9 am-10:30 am {Fireside Room}
  This month’s breakfast will feature a “Back to School” theme!  We are delighted to have several guests speakers.  As always, if you are willing and able to bring a breakfast item to share, please click here.  (Please come regardless of whether or not you are able to bring something to share!) Contact: Amy Auker

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SERVING OPPORTUNITIES

• Meals Needed for Mangus Family
  As Nancy continues to recover from her surgery, would you consider blessing their family with a meal?  Diabetic-friendly meals for 3 would be greatly appreciated.  Please contact Joy for the sign-up, if able to provide a meal.  Contact: Joy O’Toole
• Sunday School Teachers & Assistants
  Many opportunities are available as Promotion Sunday (August 30) is around the corner!  Please prayerfully consider teaching or assisting.  This weekly commitment might only involve 50 minutes of interaction (9-9:50 am) with these little ones, but, the Lord certainly uses those precious minutes to build up kingdom leaders. Contact: Laurie Burrows
  
• Junior Worship Teachers Needed | Once-a-Month Rotation {August 30-May}
  Junior Worship provides children aged 3-4 the opportunity to hear God’s word and worship together at their level.  Children attend Junior Worship from about 10:35 (after the offering) through the end of the service.  Junior Worship is meant to model the worship service: there is singing, prayer requests + prayer time, and a short bible lesson + uncomplicated craft.  Four teams (each consisting of 2 adults+1 pre-teen helper) each serve once a month.  Many resources are available for crafts, lessons, etc.  Questions? Ask Laurie! Contact: Laurie Burrows
• Pioneer Girls Teachers & Substitutes Needed
  Many teachers and assistants are needed!  See image below for idea of how YOU can help, as able.  Please prayerfully consider being a light to these girls ranging from PreK – 9th grade!  Contact: Dorinda McConnell or Sharon Leaman
  
  
• Church Kitchen Cleaning Volunteers
  A deep-cleaning maintenance schedule has been created.  We suggest during the first week of the month, 2-3 people get together to clean & organize the kitchen. Sign-up with a friend or get to know someone new!  You can access the sign-up here. Contact: Christine Fulcrod | 540-746-4848 | nlicc@nlicc.org
• Furnishings & Cleaning Supplies for Church Manses
  If you are able to donate gently used (or new) furnishings and new cleaning supplies, please click here.  If you have questions regarding delivery of furniture and/or specific needs listed, please contact the deacon on call.  Contact: Deacon on Call
• Bulletin Folding Volunteers
  Do you have a couple hours on a Friday afternoon you can spare?  Sign up HERE to fold bulletins after 1 pm some Friday.  Takes about 2 hours (faster if you bring a friend!) Contact: Dayra Rumbaugh | 540-786-4848 | dayra@nlicc.org