Cypress Church Student Ministries Hold First Yule Ball

Students from High Schools and Junior High Schools in the Cypress area held their first ever “Yule Ball” at Cypress Church this year.  The event was complete with a “white elephant” gift exchange and a display of awkward family photos. Some students wore fancy dress-up attire and others came dressed in their favorite “ugly” sweater.

The event was organized by a committee of students under the leadership of Pastor Stan Markowski. It marked the culmination of an exciting year of service, fun, fellowship and growth.

The Cypress Church Student Ministries meet weekly on Tuesday evenings and also hold many special events. All Jr. High and High School students are welcome to join in the fun. Service activities include helping feed homeless area residents in partnership with the Cypress Church Knights of the Holy Grill.

The Church also sponsors camping trips to Hume Lake in the Sierras, dodge ball tournaments, scavenger hunts and much more. Students study the Bible and learn about how to have a personal relationship with Jesus.

Information about Cypress Student Ministries is available on Facebook or call (714) 952-3001. The Cypress Church website is located at: http://www.cyprresschurch.net/

Photo Caption # 1 (top): Students from local area High Schools and Jr. Highs held their 1st annual Yule Ball at Cypress Church complete with an ugly sweater contest and white elephant gift exchange.

Photo Caption #2: The 1st Annual Cypress Student Ministries Yule Ball was held during December at Cypress Church. The students meet regularly on Tuesday evenings throughout the year and are involved in community service, Bible study, camping trips and many other exciting activities.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - www.cypresschurch.net

Cypress Church Celebrates Christmas Through Service

The Holiday Season is a time for giving and showing love for others.  Cypress Church volunteers have been very active throughout the year in the community and are continuing to give and serve others during Christmas time.

Each year the church helps out at the Cypress Senior Center during the annual Holiday Celebration. Hundreds of community residents receive food, gifts and entertainment at this event which is sponsored by the Cypress Department of Recreation and Community Services.

Cypress Church also feeds homeless in the Los Angeles area at Christmas and Thanksgiving. They partner with Faith In Christ Ministries to bring help to many people who have little hope.

Volunteer coordinators, George and Lynn Pardon, arrange for teams to assist local cities during the July Fourth celebration, help with the yearly cleanup at the Cypress Nature Park and guide residents through the employment search process at the Cypress Job Fair.

The church welcome everyone at their Sunday services which are held at 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. The Cypress Church main campus is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View. Information about volunteering in the community is available by calling (714) 952-3001.

Photo Caption #1 (top): Cypress Church volunteers Beverly Hayworth, Lynn Pardon, Mary Beth Walker and Susan VanderWal Faber served meals to seniors at the Cypress Senior Center during the annual Holiday Celebration.

Photo Caption #2: Instrumentalist Jeff Sisil plays saxophone, clarinet and flute with the Cypress Church Worship Team during Christmas Eve services and Sunday worship.

Photo Caption #3: Cypress Church Knights of the Holy Grill Larry Lexus, Dave Austin and Vern Helbig serve food to the homeless during the Holiday Season each year.

Photo Caption #4: Volunteers of all ages from Cypress Church help the City of Cypress with their annual Nature Park clean-up.

Photo Caption #5: Cypress Church collected food donations to assist the "We Care" agency of Los Alamitos in feeding the needy in Orange County.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Celebrate the True Meaning of the Season on Christmas Eve at Cypress Church

Lights, trees, caroling, cookies, hot chocolate, parties and TV specials - we all have our favorite holiday traditions without which Christmas would not be the same. While we love these traditions, sometimes they can obscure what Christmas is all about. Break through all of that holiday clutter and achieve a meaningful Christmas this year!

The community is invited to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas on December 24th at Cypress Church. The Worship Team will be hosting an inspiring evening full of traditional Christmas carols as well as contemporary worship music.

There will be three candlelight Christmas Eve services at 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 24, 2012. For many, experiencing a meaningful Christmas is hard because of its commercialization. Shopping sprees and the much-anticipated holiday gift exchange that is intertwined with Christmas have overshadowed the birth of Jesus.

Pastor Mike McKay of Cypress Church explains that there is much more to the holiday season. “Christmas…” he says, is a time to “…gain a greater understanding of who Jesus is, what is significant about Him, and what knowing Him in a personal way can allow us to reach – hope, peace, joy, and love.”

Cypress Church Worship Leader Nathan Baldwin has a great evening in store for the community. He will be joined by Worship Team members Laurie Fieger, Jeff Sisil, Suzanne McElderry, Garrick Fieger and a host of vocalists and musicians to share the true meaning of the season.

Join the Cypress Church family on Christmas Eve for a time of lighting candles, singing hymns and Christmas carols and a message from God’s Word. The Worship Team hopes that sharing this special evening together will be part of your family’s tradition this Christmas season.

Cypress Church is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View Street. Childcare for children from nursery school thru kindergarten will be available at the 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Services. The Church holds weekly worship and Bible study on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Their main campus is located close to Buena Park, Garden Grove, Anaheim and all of northern Orange County. Information is available at (714) 952-3001 or visit the church online at: http://www.cypresschurch.net.

Photo Caption #1 (top): Pianist and vocalist Suzanne McElderry will be part of the Cypress Church Worship Team for Christmas Eve services at 4:30, 6:00, and 7:30 p.m. on December 24th.

Photo Caption #2: Cypress Church invites the community to discover more about the true meaning of the holiday season with vocalist Laurie Fieger, instrumentalist Jeff Sisil and a host of other musicians on Christmas Eve.

PhtotCaption #3: Nathan Baldwin, Pastor of Worship Arts at Cypress Church (far right), has a great evening of Christmas music in store for the community on Monday, December 24.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Cypress Church Welcomes Worship Leader Nathan Baldwin

The Holiday season is a time for giving thanks and the Cypress Church family is very thankful that Nathan Baldwin has come on board as their new Pastor of Worship Arts. Nathan was officially welcomed by the congregation on November 25th when he led Sunday worship for the first time at Cypress.

Nathan joins the Cypress Church leadership team along with his wife Kim and their daughters Alison and Emily. As a worship leader, song writer, studio musician and church consultant, Nathan has more than ten years experience in full-time ministry. He has led worship for camps and conferences with the praise/worship band “The Bronco Project” as well as with his new band “Grace Exchange.”

Baldwin has college level training at both Hope International University. He has previously served in ministry positions at High Desert Church in Victorville, Oasis Church in Redlands and Olive Drive Church in Bakersfield.

“December Hymns – EP” is Nathan Baldwin’s latest album and it is available on iTunes. When asked what he would name his autobiography Nathan replied: “Grace can change anyone!”

Jesus is “the reason for the season” and Cypress Church invites the entire community to join them for Christmas Eve services on Monday, December 24, 2012 at 4:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The Cypress Church main campus is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View Street. Information is available by phone at (714) 952-3001 or online at www.cypresschurch.net/. Cypress Church serves the cities of Cypress, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, Anaheim, Seal Beach, La Palma and the surrounding area. Sunday services are held at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Photo Caption #1 (top): Nathan Baldwin has recently been selected as the new Pastor of Worship Arts for Cypress Church.

Photo Caption #2: Pastor Mike McKay of Cypress Church (far left) welcomed Worship Leader Nathan Baldwin and his family on Sunday November 25th.

Photo Caption #3: Pastor of Worship Arts Nathan Baldwin led the congregation in singing “Our God is Greater” at Cypress Church.

iTunes Link for Nathan Baldwin's Album - December Hymns - EP: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/december-hymns-ep/id576447784

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Cypress Church Volunteers Build Home for Needy Family

Early this summer a team of volunteers from Cypress Church travelled on a six day mission trip to serve disadvantaged residents in the Ensenada, Mexico area. There were ten Orange County residents in the group from three different families. The mission trip was led by Dan Punkay and Justin McElderry. Other participants included Lori, Andrew and Natalie Punkay; Suzanne, Eliana, Vivian and Cael McElderry; and Tom Frank. All age groups from elementary school to adults were represented.

This is the sixth year that volunteers from Cypress Church have partnered with YUGO Ministries to assist the community of Lomas Bonitas. This neighborhood is located in the mountains on the edge of Ensenada.

The community of Lomas Bonitas is unique in that the residents are immigrants from southern Mexico. There is no running water or natural gas service. The local wage is about $6.00 for a full day of labor. The roads are dirt and in very poor condition. While the parents are working, local pastors Juan and Karina Ambrocio provide programs for the children in town.

Most families do not own homes, but live in one room structures provided for them by the local church, “Centro Cristiano Jehova Jire,” and Yugo Ministries. This year the Cypress Church team partnered with a family of three who were in need, helping them build a small home, complete with a full roof. The family’s previous home was particle board with a tarp over the top. In addition to building, the volunteers also assisted with a neighborhood feeding center for children.

Andrew Punkay gave the Wednesday evening sermon in Spanish at “Centro Cristiano Jehova Jire.” When asked to describe the focus of this trip, Cypress Church Associate Pastor Takeshi Takazawa stated: “This ministry effort is specially designed for volunteers to work together as a family unit to serve people in need and develop relationships.”

Yugo Ministries has been taking the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the people of Mexico since 1964. They train and host youth, adult and family teams from the U.S. and Canada to work in cross-cultural evangelistic, construction, and mercy ministry efforts.

Cypress Church partners with missions organizations around the globe to spread the Good News about Jesus Christ to the world with actions as well as words. This summer other teams from the Cypress area have traveled to Ecuador, India and New Orleans to assist needy individuals and families.

Information about global mission opportunities is available at (714) 952-3001 or email: info@cypresschurch.net. The Cypress Church campus is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View. Worship services are held on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Bible studies and activities for all ages are available. The church website is located at: http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Photo Caption: Families from Cypress Church working alongside their counterparts in Lomas Bonitas, Mexico to build a new home.

Photo Caption: Ten Orange County residents ranging from grade school age to adults assisted local residents and YUGO Ministries in Mexico this summer.

Photo Caption: A needy family in Mexico has moved from a living under a tarp to a new home as a result of volunteers from Cypress Church serving others in the Name of Jesus.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net

Bicycle Maintenance and Training Ride on August 4th

Time to bring the old bike out of the garage, dust it off, and fill up those tires. Team Cypress Church invites you to join them for a bicycle maintenance and training ride on Saturday, August 4, 2012 starting at 11:00 a.m.

Our team of seasoned bicycle riders will be set up in the Cypress Church parking lot to help you air up your tires, lube your chain, and also take care of some minor bike maintenance to help you get pedaling again.

After everyone has their bikes ready to roll, the team plans a short training ride. Please note that all riders must wear a helmet regardless of age.

Team Cypress Church has many activities of interest to area cyclists. If you are on Facebook you may join the Team Cypress Church Cycling Ministry group at: http://www.facebook.com/groups/341205513054/

For additional information about our Bicycle Maintenance and Training Ride you may contact Gerald Torres at (714) 329-8588 or email: 1bikeking@gmail.com.

The Cypress Church main campus is located at 6143 Ball Rd. in Cypress, CA 90630. Sunday services are at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Church information is available at  (714) 952-3001 or visit the website at: http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Art Of Marriage at Cypress Church

Cypress Church will be hosting "The Art of Marriage", a six session video event, on Friday and Saturday, September 28 and 29, 2012. Marriage is colored by personalities and passions and experiences. Making marriage work is a divinely inspired art form. This unique video experience will show how God can turn any marriage into a masterpiece.

"The Art of Marriage" seminar series is a fast paced and compelling presentation. It covers six critical topics that relates to every marriage. These include: God's purpose and plan, overcoming isolation, fulfilling our responsibilities, communication and conflict, experiencing real intimacy and leaving a lasting legacy.

Seminar sessions will be held at the Cypress Church main campus located at 6143 Ball Road in Cypress, CA. The first two sessions will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, September 28, 2012. The second and third sessions will be on Saturday, September 29, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and the final two lessons will be from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.

The seminar fee of $40 per couple includes a textbook, workbook and video teaching sessions for each participant. Childcare will be provided on site.

Registration information is available by email at: ArtOfMarriageCC@gmail.com or by phone at (714) 494-6355.

Click the following link to view the video trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnR9mfZF6iI

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/ - Sunday Worship Services at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Nicole Werner to Open Cypress Festival with National Anthem

Local voice teacher Nicole Werner has been selected to sing the National Anthem at the Cypress Community Festival. Described as a “diminutive charmer with powerful pipes,” Nicole Werner has proven herself the consummate triple threat in musical theatre productions and concerts throughout the country.
Nicole is the lead vocalist with the Cypress Church Worship Team. She grew up in northwest Orange County where she attended Los Alamitos High School and the Orange County High School of the Arts. She studied performing arts at UC San Diego and received an MFA in Musical Theater from San Diego State University. This is the only graduate program of its kind in the nation equipping artists to both perform and teach at the university level.

Her performance credits span the spectrum of musical and theatrical talents. She “dazzled” in 42nd Street as Peggy Sawyer, starred as the title role in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at South Bay Civic Light Opera and played Olive in San Diego’s regional premiere of Putnam County Spelling Bee. She has served as a guest artist with the San Diego Chamber Orchestra since 2006 and has sung throughout Los Angeles with jazz groups Odyssey Tango Trio and Blue Coral.

Most recently, she traveled to the East Coast to sing with the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra. She also has had the great honor of recording a new musical demo with the legendary Golden Age composer Hugh Martin. She works as a choreographer and director for university, public school, and professional productions and teaches voice and musical theatre at Orange County Song and Dance and in her private studio. She is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association and The National Association of Teachers of Singing. More information about Nicole is available online at: http://www.nicolewerner.net/

The opening ceremonies at 9:00 a.m. on Festival Day will include the Flag Salute with a color guard from the Boy Scouts of America. The public is invited to attend this free event at Oak Knoll Park on Saturday July 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Festival information is available online at: http://www.cypressfestival.com/

Photo Caption #1: Voice teacher Nicole Werner, who sings regularly at Cypress Church, has been selected to lead the National Anthem at the opening ceremonies for Cypress Community Festival on July 28th.

Photo Caption #2: Nicole Werner’s performance credits span the spectrum of musical and theatrical talents. She “dazzled” in 42nd Street as Peggy Sawyer and starred in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at South Bay Civic Light Opera.


Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/ - Sunday Worship at 9:00 a.m.; anf 10:30: a.m.

Cypress Church Brings Help to a Hurting World

 God has a life-journey mapped out for each one of us us and He has custom built into us abilities, talents, gifts, passions, desires, dreams, and interests to engage as part of His specific plans. "We are seeking out ways to help the needs in Cypress and the eleven cities that surround it," says Pastor Mike McKay about the church’s desire to help the poor. "We have also looked beyond our borders, connecting with local churches and organizations in different countries to give some tangible expressions of God*s love."

The theme at Cypress Church for 2012 is: "It's Your Serve." This summer members of the Cypress Church congregation are fanning out to serve others around the globe. Chante Longshore is training in Indiana during June and will then tour the East Coast with an evangelistic singing team. J.P. Delmundo has recently gone to Hawaii and will be serving with the The University of Nations (also known as YWAM - Kona). Our Mexico team, which includes the McElderry and Punkay families are building a home for a needy family in Mexico this June.

In early July, Jessica Bujarski will be serving as an intern in Ecuador. On July 16th she will be joined by a team of 15 including the Peterson family and volunteers from four Orange County churches to assist the Waodani Tribe by holding a jungle style Vacation Bible School.

Cypress Church Senior Pastor Mike McKay and his wife Kristi will lead this year's India team. They will travel to the Andhra Pradesh region to minister to orphans and take food to a leper colony. 25 high school students from the congregation will travel to New Orleans starting on July 21 to work with Urban Impact Ministries and Castle Rock Church.

Cypress Church is committed to serving people all around the globe and in our local area in the name of Jesus and the community is invited to participate. There are many opportunities available to volunteer for projects overseas, in other parts of the U.S.A. and also in Cypress and the surrounding cities.

If you want to learn more about missions, receive training in cross-cultural ministry, or desire to get involved in Cypress Church Global Outreach Ministries, please call (714) 952-3001. Cypress Church is located at 6143 Ball Rd. in Cypress, just east of Valley View. Sunday worship services are held at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Photo Caption Top #1: A team of 15 volunteers from Cypress Church and three other congregations will depart for Ecuador on July 16th to assist the Waodani Tribe by holding a jungle style Vacation Bible School.

Photo Caption #2: Cypress Church has teams serving others all over the globe. J. P. Delmundo is working with the University of Nations in Hawaii.

Photo Caption #3: 25 high school students from Cypress Church will travel to New Orleans starting on July 21 to work with Urban Impact Ministries and Castle Rock Church.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Early Bird Registration Open for Heroes: Arise VBS at Cypress Church

Kids will have loads of fun during Vacation Bible School at Cypress Church to be held the week of July 16 - 20. The theme for 2012 is "Heroes: Arise."

This year's program includes Bible lessons, skits, games, crafts, snacks and music. Children will be keeping an eye out for ways that God works in their everyday lives.

They may even notice the daily demonstrations of His love that are often overlooked. Children will also discover how they can be "Heroes" by showing Christ’s love to others through their actions. The program is supervised by trained leaders.

"Early Bird" Registration is now open for "Heroes: Arise" Vacation Bible School at Cypress Church. The cost is $20 per child through July 1, 2012. The normal cost is $30 after July 1st. The program is designed for children from age 4 through 6th grade.

For information contact Mike Haugland at (714) 952-3001. Applications may be downloaded from the Cypress Church website at: http://www.cypresschurch.net. The Cypress Church main campus is located at 6143 Ball Road in Cypress, CA just east of Valley View.

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Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Bob Koehler Selected as Cypress Volunteer of the Year

Cypress resident Bob Koehler received the "Volunteer of the Year" Award from the Cypress Recreation and Community Services Commission in a ceremony held at the Community Center on April 17th. Grace Lee of Cypress High was also honored with the Youth Volunteer Award.

Koehler has lived in Cypress since 1996 and attends Cypress Church along with His wife Jean. He has been active in community outreach activities and also assists with public relations by writing press releases and managing social media accounts and blogs for Cypress Church.

Bob has also been an active volunteer with the Cypress Community Festival. He maintains the Festival website and their Facebook and Twitter pages. Bob's news articles have appeared frequently in the News- Enterprise and Event newspapers. He is a Veteran of the United States Navy, a recipient of the Bronze Star and has been a harbor pilot in the Port of Long Beach for the past 31 years.

Grace Lee has been a volunteer with the Cypress Youth Action Committee. She is a junior at Cypress High where she is a journalist and has written articles for the Cypress Event News.

The awards were presented by Kelly Benson, the Chair of the Recreation and Community Services Commission. Commission members, community volunteers, friends and family were in attendance. In his acceptance remarks Koehler commented: “Jesus taught that it is more blessed to give than to receive and what we have here is a room full of givers.” Information about Cypress Church is available online at: http://www.cypresschurch.net/  The Cypress Community Festival site is located at: http://www.cypressfestival.com/
Photo Caption: Bob Koehler received the 2012 Cypress Volunteer of the Year Award from Recreation Commission Chair Kelly Benson.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Ecuador Silent Auction Planned for April 20th

Each summer members of Cypress Church and other Orange County Christians travel to Ecuador to assist residents in the Waodani village of Zancudo. In 1956 five missionaries were killed by this tribe and their story made headlines in Life Magazine. Their story was recently made into a movie called “End of the Spear.”

The Ecuador Missions Team is holding a Silent Auction on Friday April 20th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. There will be rare, unique and exotic items featured at this event including two (only two!), four foot-long blow guns (and darts) made by the indigenous, Waodani jungle tribe.

The public is invited to attend this free event to be held at Dragonfly Shops and Gardens, an established and classy Victorian shop in the heart of old-town Orange at 260 N. Glassell Street. All profits from the Silent Auction go toward the Ecuador mission trip. The 14 people in the Ecuador Team include high-school students, college students, and adults.

This Ecuador Silent Auction special event will feature live music by jazz musician Jeff Sisil and other artists. There will be hors d'oeuvres, entertainment and, of course, shopping. Some of the items to be auctioned include art work plus tickets to Magic Mountain, Medieval Times, Knott’s Berry Farm, Aquarium of the Pacific, a hotel stay, In-N-Out Burger, horseback riding, Wine Tasting and Making tours, exquisite jewelry, hand-crafted items and much more.

Additional information about the Ecuador Silent Auction is available from Susan Peterson at (562) 867-5223 or email: Susan@funplaces.com. Cypress Church serves communities in northern Orange County. The main campus is located at 6143 Ball Road. Sunday worship is at 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. The church office phone is (714) 952-3001.

Photo Caption: The Cypress Church Ecuador Team is sponsoring a Silent Auction on Friday, April 20 to raise funds for their summer mission trip.

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Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Financial Peace Classes at Cypress Church Start on April 15

Are you concerned about your financial future? Do you have a plan to pay for "emergency" expenses? Are you saving money for retirement? Cypress Church will be offering money management classes that address these issues starting April 15th. The first session is free to prospective students.

The 13 week program, Financial Peace University (FPU), is taught by radio talk show host and best selling author Dave Ramsey. FPU has helped more than one million families nationwide learn how to save for unexpected expenses, pay off debt and invest for future needs like education and retirement.

According to volunteer class coordinator Bob Koehler: "These classes will help you gain control over your finances so that that the lack of money will not control you. The average family that completes the program pays off more than $5,000 in debt and saves more than $2,500 in the first 91 days. Many are completely out of debt except for their mortgage in just 18 to 24 months."

Each class session begins with video teaching from Dave Ramsey. Then there is a time for interactive discussions, budget planning and progress reports. Topics covered include: saving for emergencies, budgeting, relationship and money issues, buying big bargains, getting out of debt, understanding investments, understanding insurance, retirement and college planning, buyer beware. real estate mortgages, careers and extra jobs.

Classes will be held at the Cypress Church main campus located at 6143 Ball Road in Cypress just east of Valley View and are open to the community. Each family or individual participating in the class needs a membership kit which costs $89.00. The kit includes a lifetime husband/wife membership, textbook, workbook, budgeting forms, envelope system, audio cds and access to online tools. The lifetime membership allows participants to attend any FPU class at any time for a refresher course.

Information about Financial Peace University is available from class coordinator Bob Koehler at (310) 508-7909 or email: CaptBobLB@gmail.com. Online registration is available at the following link: http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/locations/org/39574/class/207880/atid/m_ln

Photo Caption: Bob Koehler will be coordinating the Financial Peace University classes at Cypress Church beginning on April 15th at 1:00 p.m.

Rummage Sale at Cypress Church on Saturday March 31st

“Shop ‘til you drop” at the annual Cypress Church Rummage Sale on Saturday, March 31st from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Find toys, books, clothing, sports gear, furniture and maybe that “special treasure” you have been looking for. “Each year we have a wide selection of great bargains available. There should be something for just about everyone!” stated church member Bob Koehler.

The public is invited to this event at the Cypress Church main campus located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View. Proceeds from the Rummage Sale will support missions teams going to Ecuador, New Orleans, India and Mexico during the Summer of 2012.

This is a great opportunity to meet new friends, bless others through your purchases and also to un-clutter your garage and closets at the same time. Donations will be accepted on Thursday, March 29 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Friday March 30 from 12 noon to 8:00 p.m. Please drop off unneeded clothing, furniture, books and household items (in nice condition) at the Cypress Church Gym (No TVs over 27 inches please). Information is available from Sue Frank at (714) 994-2055.

Cypress Church serves the entire northern Orange County area including the communities of Cypress, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, Anaheim and the surrounding area. Information about Cypress Church is available by phone at (714) 952-3001 or by email at info@cypresschurch.net. The church website is located at: http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Photo Caption: Valerie Ancheta, Mark Ancheta and Jim Miller of Cypress Church invite the community to shop at the annual Rummage Sale on Saturday, March 31st.

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Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net

Cypress Church Plans 2012 Easter Week Activities

Easter is a very special time for Christians everywhere and Worship Leaders Suzanne McElderry and Jericho Almiranez of Cypress Church are planning ten worship services for the community during Easter week. The Easter season celebrations begin Palm Sunday which is on April 1st this year. There will be two services at 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. The contemporary worship team and praise band will be joined by a horn section in leading the congregation. Palm Sunday will celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Pastor Mike McKay will present a message on the topic of “The Controversy of the Cross.”

This occasion, which occurred on April 6, 32 AD, was the symbol of Christ as Messiah and King. On that day, in fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, Jesus rode into the city on a donkey while the people were crying out: “Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Cypress Church will celebrate Maundy Thursday, “The Redemption of the Cross,” with an evening Communion Service at 7:00 p.m. on April 5th. The theme will be a journey to the Upper Room the night before Jesus went to the cross. The term Maundy, meaning “mandate” or “command,” refers to the new command Jesus gave his disciples at the Last Supper. The congregation will sit around tables. The Worship Center will be transformed into a Last Supper-esque scene. Music and narration will lead worshippers on a journey to the “Upper Room.”

On Good Friday, April 6th, the worship service will focus on “The Beauty of the Cross” and Christ’s journey from the Upper Room to the Calvary. Beginning at 7:00 p.m., this powerful evening will tug at worshipper’s hearts as they remember what God did for everyone through the death of Jesus Christ. There will be live music, dramatic presentations and other creative elements.

Holy Saturday is celebrated on April 7th. The focus will be on “The Weight of the Cross.” This is an interactive experience to reflect on the Easter story and its significance as a family. Attendees may arrive at 4:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. for a brief introduction to the various stations, followed by the opportunity to discuss, experience, and worship together or individually at their own pace.

Sunday, April 8th is Easter Sunday and there will be three Easter Sunday Worship Services at Cypress Church at 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. This day will a great celebration as the contemporary choir and orchestra, directed by Jeff Sisil, lead the congregation in worshiping the Risen Savior. Senior Pastor Mike McKay will present a message entitled: “At The Crossroads – The Relief of the Cross.” There will be uplifting songs of praise as well as some old-favorites. “He Is Risen! He Is Risen Indeed!” The Cypress Church Children’s Ministry has special activities planned for kids on Easter Sunday including the Easter Story, games and a bounce house.

Cypress Church serves the entire northern Orange County area. The main campus is located at 6143 Ball Road just east of Valley View. The public is invited to participate in all Easter Passion Week activities. Community residents may follow Cypress Church on Facebook and Twitter. Additional information is available at (714) 952-3001. The Cypress Church website is located at: http://www.cypresschurch.net/ and the church email is: info@cypresschurch.net.

Photo Caption #1: Pastor Mike McKay of Cypress Church will share an Easter message with the community entitled “At The Crossroads – The Relief of the Cross” on Sunday April 8th.

Photo Caption #2: Musician Jeff Sisil will lead the Cypress Church orchestra during Easter Week worship services at Cypress Church.

Photo Caption #3: The community is invited to Cypress Church on Maundy Thursday, April 5th at 7:00 p.m. to participate in a re-enactment of the Last Supper.

Photo Caption #4: Cypress Church will offer the community 10 services during Easter Week beginning on Palm Sunday (April 1st) and continuing through Easter Sunday on April 8th.

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Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - www.cypresschurch.net

Cypress Church Men To Host NFL Veteran Ed Tandy McGlasson

What does it take to be a father? Some insight into that agonizingly simple yet complex question may be provided at Cypress Church on Saturday, March 10th by Ed Tandy McGlasson. A former NFL player, speaker, encourager, author and pastor, McGlasson is a big man with a very big heart.

As a veteran of the National Football League, since his college days Ed has been – literally and figuratively – in the center of the action on the athletic fields of major stadiums all over America. As the starting center for the Rams and three other NFL teams in three of the nation’s biggest cities, he heard the cheers of huge crowds for many years. Ed details his life in his best-selling book “The Difference A Father Makes” – a book that has changed thousands of readers’ lives with nearly 200,000 copies sold since its release in 2004.

Ed will be the featured speaker at this month’s Cypress Church men’s breakfast which is open to the community. The Knights of the Holy Grill will be on hand to prepare some of their hearty fare. The breakfast will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Cypress Church located just east of Valley View at 6143 Ball Road in Cypress, CA. The suggested donation for the breakfast is $7 per person.

Cypress Church serves the cities of Buena Park, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Cerritos, Cypress, Garden Grove and the surrounding area. Bible studies and activities are available for all ages. Sunday services are held at 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Information about the upcoming men’s breakfast is available from Todd Zuleger at (714) 448-1765 or email: tzuleger@sbcglobal.net. The Cypress Church office phone is: (714) 952-3001.

Photo Caption: NFL Football Veteran Ed Tandy McGlasson will be the featured speaker at the Cypress Church men's breakfast on Saturday March 10th.

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net/

Cypress Church Offers Volunteer Opportunities

Lately we have been hearing a lot in the news about upcoming elections. Many of us wonder what direction our community and our nation are headed. We would like to be a positive part of the process but we just don’t know how to do it.

The ultimate exercise of democracy is volunteering to serve our community. We only vote in elections once every few years, and voting is important. But, when we volunteer, we are voting every day about what kind of community we want to live in.

Church is committed to serving our local area in the name of Jesus and we invite you to join us. We have put together a list of many opportunities to serve Cypress and the surrounding cities. Community service volunteer opportunities include:

Los Alamitos “Race on the Base” - Saturday, February 25, 2012 – 6:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Last year, Cypress Church volunteers staffed a water station. In addition to staffing a water station, there are many other volunteer opportunities including registration, course monitors, reverse triathlon, junior reverse triathlon, finish line, kid’s fun zone, etc.

If you are interested in participating in any of the events which include 5K run, 5K walk, 10k run, 10K In-Line Skate/Wheelchair, and the Reverse Triathlon (Run 5K, Bike 12 miles, and Swim 200 meters), please contact Brent Theodore at: brent.k.theodore@verizon.net

Habitat for Humanity - Volunteer Orientations - Habitat for Humanity will be constructing a housing development in Cypress beginning in May 2012. There are many volunteer opportunities to assist with this project. The next two volunteer orientations are on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. on February 7 and March 6. These upcoming orientations will be at Sisters of St. Joseph Center, 480 S. Batavia, Orange. There will also be an orientation on April 3 at Sea Coast Grace Church.

Cypress Senior Center - Assist with the serving of lunch on special occasions: Valentine’s Day Lunch on Tuesday, February 14th – lunch service only (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.). St. Patrick’s Day Lunch -Friday, March 16th - lunch service only (11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.).

Cypress Teen Fashion Show - Saturday, March 17, 6:00 p.m. at the Cypress Community Center - 4 volunteers are needed from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. to help with the raffle and hand out programs. There are also needs for teens that have an interest in fashion design or would like to model. Find our more about this event on the internet: http://www.ci.cypress.ca.us/recreation/12_teen_fashion_scene.pdf and http://www.ci.cypress.ca.us/recreation/12_tfs_designer_app.pdf

Tree Donation Project for City of Cypress - March 9 and April 14 - As part of its Arbor Day Celebration, Cypress is seeking donations to plant trees in the city. If you, the company where you work or a group you belong to are interested in supporting this program, the cost is $250 for each tree. Donations are needed by March 9 with all donors being recognized on Saturday, April 14 at 1:00 p.m. More information is available at: http://www.ci.cypress.ca.us/recreation/12_tree_donations.pdf

We Care - Saturday, March 24, 2012 - We Care is a non-profit Family Resource Center serving the cities of Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Rossmoor, Cypress, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and Stanton. We Care provides services for families in crises i.e. rent and utilities assistance, food bank, case management and referrals. We Care’s 6th Annual "From the Heart" Fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 6:00p.m. The casual and fun-filled event features dinner, refreshments, music, and a live/silent auction and will be held at Aegean Designing Whims in Los Alamitos. Tickets for the event are $60 and all proceeds go directly to helping families in crisis. For tickets or additional information, please contact We Care at (562) 598-9790 or visit their website at: http://www.wecarelosalamitos.org

Spring Egg Hunt - Saturday, April 7 at 10:30 a.m. at Oak Knoll Park - A total of 60 volunteers are needed from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to help with egg hunts, crafts, activity areas. About 10 people from Cypress Church volunteered for this event last year. Come and join the fun. This is a great event to volunteer or attend with your kids.

Nature Park Summer Opening Day Event - Saturday, June 2, 10:00 a.m. at Cypress Nature Park - 4 volunteers are needed from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to help with set-up, directions to where the show will be, and help with tear down.

July 4th Celebration - July 4, Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos - 2 shifts (2:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. & 6:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.) 20-25 people per shift depending on how many rides and booths. Cypress Church provided all of the volunteers for the Kid’s Zone last year. It was a great time for everyone.

Cypress Community Festival – Saturday, July 28, at Oak Knoll Park - 10 volunteers are needed from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. to assist vendors to their booth space. 80 volunteers are needed to help with all aspects of the 5K & 10K Run/Walk starting at 7:30a.m. at Council Chambers. This is one event you can volunteer for or participate in. Cypress Church will also have a booth at the Festival again this year so volunteers will be needed to serve in the booth. Mark your calendars. You may discover more about the Festival at: http://www.cypressfestival.com/

City Council Meetings – Attend your city council meetings. Important business impacting your city is conducted and you have a unique opportunity to be in prayer for the city’s leadership. Upcoming Cypress City Council meetings are on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. February’s meetings are on the 13th and 27th starting at 7 p.m.

The Boys and Girls Club in Cypress - This is a great opportunity to love our city by being a blessing to the children. Just two hours a week will have a significant impact. Helping kids with homework and interacting with them in the computer lab, during game time, and listening to them read are a few of the examples of the volunteer opportunities. The Boys and Girls Club is located at 10161 Moody St in Cypress. Their program hours are from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the school year. More information is available at: http://www.boysandgirlsclubofcypress.com

To indicate your interest in volunteering for any of these opportunities or for additional information about community volunteer opportunities, please contact: George or Lynn Pardon at: gpardon@sbcglobal.net or lpardon@sbcglobal.net or phone (714) 827-3585. As additional volunteer opportunities come up, you can be informed of them by providing your email address to George or Lynn Pardon. You may also call the Cypress Church office at (714) 952-3001.

The Bible tells us in the Book of Jeremiah to: “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

Cypress Church - 6143 Ball Rd. - Cypress, CA 90630 - Phone: (714) 952-3001 - http://www.cypresschurch.net