In September of 2018, we introduced the Deep Roots Campaign. Our goal was to receive $300,000 over three years. The campaign recognized the deep roots we have in this location (70 years in our sanctuary) and also in the community. To honor and celebrate our community roots we pledged 10% or $30,000 to community partners. Our congregation responded with incredible generosity to this campaign.

Adams Elementary used the gift to purchase outdoor seating to create an outdoor classroom, which debuted this fall. Principal Terry Manning reports that students love getting to work outside. Adams is at full capacity, and the chance to get outside for fresh air and learning is a gift.

Hyde Elementary used the gift to enhance their playground. Next time you’re coming or going from Grace, drive behind Hyde on Glendale between First and Second streets. Take note of the giant yellow shade devices; that’s what our money allowed them to buy.  On hot playground days, students and teachers can find a little shade.

Thank you for your continued generosity!

 

 

Each month on the first Sunday you’re encouraged to take home a re-usable yellow grocery bag, put some non-perishable items in it, and bring it back the next week, or soon thereafter.

In November, we’re sending Darcy Eads to Cuba along with a member of the Marion Presbyterian Church.  They represent the Presbytery of Southern Kansas at a Cuba Network Conference.

They will take things to share with the people they meet in the Cuban churches. Their requests include: Vitamins for children and adults, 81 mg aspirin, glucosamine, over the counter arthritis medication, antacids, antidiarrheals, Desitin, triple antibiotic ointment, bandages, and gauze.  If you have questions, contact Darcy Eads.

If you prefer to bring food, we will save it for the Operation Holiday food drive in November.

Each month Grace distributes bus tickets to people in our community.  This happens on the 15^th of the month, or if the 15^th is on a weekend we meet the Friday before. Volunteers and those receiving tickets begin to gather around 6:30 am in the Grace Alcove. Guests are greeted with smiles, coffee, water, and a place to sit. Tickets are distributed at 7:50 am.

We can always use volunteers to help with set-up, clean-up, and ticket distribution.  Want to help?  Contact Kirk Anderson, kirk@mygpc.org or 684-5215.

Youth Confirmation is the opportunity for youth, eighth grade to high school, to take a snapshot of where they are in the faith, explore possibilities to grow their faith, and to understand the church universal and how Grace and their participation partner together to make this a better house of God.

If your youth is interested, please contact Kirk Anderson or Pastor Catherine Neelly Burton for more information. The classes start near the end of October and finish mid-April.  We meet Sunday afternoons from 1:30 to 3 pm along with two-three church visits.