Ministries

WINTER / SPRING 2023 Ministry Opportunities

Dates are subject to changes. Please check back here or contact the leader to confirm event dates & times.

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We believe that what we do within each ministry should flow purposefully out of what we value and love:

"To LIVE: for God’s world, as God’s family, in the joy of God’s gospel."

WAYS TO CONNECT

GMR Website

Weekly Email Update

Fill out a Connect Card

Follow us on Social Media

 SUNDAY SCHEDULE

9:00 AM - Fellowship & Connection - Join us in the cafe for coffee to catch up with friends you haven’t seen over a busy week.

9:00 AM - 10:15AM - Youth Group - Greg Lieb -

  • Youth (6th grade - 12th grade) meet upstairs for a time of fellowship & teaching.

9:00 AM - 9:40 AM - Encountering God’s Word Together - Ken Downer -

  • See below under DISCIPLESHIP - Co-ed Studies for more details.

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - The Lord’s Prayer, Tim Chester’s Talking to Our Father - Gregg Stashenko - & Cindy Stashenko -

  • See below under DISCIPLESHIP - Co-ed Studies for more details.

9:45 AM - 10:15 AM - Prayer Gathering - Dave Bokmiller -

  • Join the prayer team to pray for the spiritual renewal of our world, nation,
    community & church family.

10:30 AM - Worship Service

  • Worship together through song, prayer & hearing God’s word.

10:30 AM - Children’s Classes - Christen Stewart -

  • Children’s classes (infant - 5th grade) are offered teaching our kids about Jesus.

 

WORSHIP & ARTS

Artist Meet & Greets - Molly Angel -

  • Description: Join us for meet & greets with the artists featured in the gallery. This is a time to meet the artist(s), ask questions, learn more about their work and celebrate their creativity. Everyone is invited!
  • When:
    Sunday, February 12 following the worship service for artist, Beverly Kies
    Sunday, April 16 following the worship service for the Art League of Henderson County
  • Where: GMR Gallery
  • Questions: Contact Molly Angel, Visual Arts Coordinator.

Greeter & Cafe Volunteers - Molly Angel -

  • Do you enjoy welcoming folks and have the gift of hospitality? If so, serving as a greeter or in the cafe might be a good fit for you. We are in need of volunteers  to welcome folks as they come in for worship, make and service coffee and clean up the cafe after the service is over. This ministry has a big impact on visitors and those considering Grace as their church. If you are interested in helping in this way, contact Molly Angel, Volunteer Coordinator.

Musicians - Andrew Kerhoulas -

  • If you are a musician or vocalist and would like to use your gifts to lead the body in worship, contact Andrew Kerhoulas, Discipleship & Worship Pastor.

DISCIPLESHIP

Co-Ed - Studies, Gatherings & Opportunities

[Community Groups - Gatherings around Meals]

Sunday Lunch Gatherings- Gregg Stashenko - & Cindy Stashenko -

  • Description: Are you hungry after worship on Sundays? Do you have trouble figuring out or agreeing on where to go or what to have? If so, let us make it easy on you, join Gregg & Cindy Stashenko at a local restaurant for some food & fellowship.
  • When & Where:
    • February 26 at 12 Bones Smokehouse SOUTH (Arden location)
  • Register: No registration needed. Just head over to the restaurant after the service.

Monthly Community Group (Thursdays) - Glen McCandless - & Cindy McCandless -

  • Description: Do you want to build community with more folks at Grace? What about over dinner? Beginning in February, we’re offering a brand new community group where folks of all ages and life-stages can share life, pray, and enjoy a meal together on a monthly basis.
  • When: 4th Thursday of each month beginning Thursday, February 23 @ 6:30pm (RSVP each month to confirm there are no changes in the gathering dates and times)
  • Where: Biltmore Park *Specific Address will be shared in response to RSVPs.
  • Register: Space is limited, so please RSVP at GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship

[Sundays]

Encountering God’s Word Together - Ken Downer -

  • Description: Come join us as we dive into the scripture passage the sermon will be based on that day. No preparation is necessary. Sit and listen or join the discussion. This is a great way to grow closer to each other as we enjoy the scriptures together. We end our time together just before the prayer gathering which makes for a great Sunday morning! 
  • When: Sunday mornings from 9AM - 9:40AM
  • Where: Education Building - Room 305
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship

The Lord’s Prayer, Tim Chester’s Talking to Our Father - Gregg Stashenko - & Cindy Stashenko -

  • Description: In this study by Tim Chester we will examine the Lord's Prayer line by line, exploring other passages in Matthew's Gospel along the way. As we learn more about the prayer Jesus taught us, we'll get to know God better and seek to live according to his purposes.
  • When: Sunday mornings for 7 weeks (January 15 - February 19) from 9AM - 10AM
  • Where: Education Building - Room 302
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship
    *Childcare Available upon request in registration form.     

[Tuesdays]

Inside Out - Elenore Beach - ​​

  • Description: Building healthy relationships starts inside of us. In this participative 6-week training, we’ll explore how our past relationships have shaped us, and how Scripture speaks into our past and points us forward, allowing God to reshape how we relate to others by working on skills that build health into our current relationships.
  • When: Tuesday evenings for 6 weeks (January 24 - February 28) from 6:30-8PM
  • Where: via Zoom with in-person option available
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship

[Wednesdays]

Renewal Nights - Andrew Kerhoulas -

  • Description: Spiritual renewal and prayer have always gone hand in hand. We seek to host a monthly space to encounter the tangible presence of God through prayer and simple singing to partner with God in intercession for personal, corporate and cultural renewal. It is our desire that these prayer gatherings would serve to usher in the power and presence of God in our hearts, our church community, and where we live. We invite you to join us and to make this pursuit a part of your monthly rhythms. 
  • When: 2nd Wednesday of the month starting January 11 from 7:00PM - 8:15PM. (Other dates: February 8, March 8, April 12, May 10)
  • Where: GMR Auditorium
  • Register: No RSVP needed. Just show up.

They Knew How to Pray Book Discussion - Rick Hebert -

  • Description: One of the best ways to perfect any skill is to learn from a master, and prayer is no different. But where do you find skilled believers who will take you under their wings and mentor you? Come, and enrich your prayer life as we study, discuss, and practice with They Knew How to Pray: 15 Secrets from the Prayer Lives of Bible Heroes. These biblical heroes--including Joshua, Hannah, David, and Jehoshaphat--will counsel you with their cries to God, ignite your faith with their spiritual passion, and mold your heart to God's. We’ll look at the prayer lives of these Bible heroes through the lens of the gospel.
  • When: Wednesdays for 8 weeks (January 18 - March 8) from 6:45PM - 8PM
  • Where: Education Building - Room 305 & Zoom Option available
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship

Servant Leadership Training in the foundations of our theology & church government - Patrick Lafferty -

  • Description: Join in with our nominees to the Diaconate for a wide open discussion of the Westminster Confession of Faith and our denomination's Book of Church Order. Participants will have reading assignments each week and then come with their own questions about these summary statements of faith and practice.
  • When: Wednesdays for 6 weeks (February 1 - March 1) from 6:15PM - 7:15PM
  • Where: Education Building - Room 302
  • Register Here

Women Only - Studies, Gatherings & Opportunities

Women's Breakfast Dates!!

  • Join us for breakfast at Cracker Barrel at 9:30am on the third Friday of each month beginning March 17. Invite your friends and meet us there! (Cracker Barrel, 344 Rockwood Rd, Arden, NC 28704)
  • Questions? Contact Rebecca Parker at

NEW!! Women’s Bible Study (Thursday Evenings) - 1, 2 & 3 John - Emily Petrilla -

  • Description: We will be studying 1, 2 and 3 John with Jen Wilkin's study Abide. Join other women, all ages welcome, in studying God's word, hearing from Him and having time of fellowship and prayer. In three short letters, the apostle John reminds an early church facing division, deception, and doubt to hold fast to what they know and to live like they believe it. And he reminds us, as well. In this 10-session Bible study on the letters of 1, 2, and 3, John, Jen Wilkin helps you see how two thousand years later, his words call to Christians in similar challenges to recall a great salvation and to abide in the truth.
  • When: Thursdays from 6:30pm to 8pm starting March 23rd
  • Where: Emily's House
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship (or email )

Women’s Bible Study (Thursdays) - Ephesians & Lent - Leigh Verm - & Cindy Stashanko -

  • Description: We are committed to meet casually together on Thursday mornings through the year to study God’s word, pray together, and encourage one another. It is never too late to join; women of all ages are welcome. Contact us with questions. We have childcare, but an RSVP is necessary to secure a spot.
  • When: Thursdays from 9:30AM - 11AM, January 19 - April 27
  • Where: Education Building- Room 305
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/groups/discipleship

Ladies Bible Read - Elenore Beach -

  • Description: Join a group of gospel-loving women who love to read through Scripture together. We meet together the first and third Monday mornings of the month to discuss the questions and insights we are gleaning from our readings. Currently, we read through portions of the old and new testaments and engage in laid back but profound discussion. 
  • When: 1st & 3rd Mondays from 10:30AM - 12PM
  • Where: Online via Zoom
  • Register: Email Elenore Beach.

Women’s Gathering at Burning Blush - Allison Rickman -

  • Description: Let’s gather for an evening out. Come to enjoy some food, drink and fellowship at the end of the week. This is a great opportunity to get to know some other women who attend GMR? Catch up with old friends and make new ones. Join the Women’s Leadership Team for an evening at Burning Blush Brewery.
  • When: Thursday, February 2 at 7PM
  • Where: Burning Blush Brewery, 4891 Boylston Hwy, Mills River
  • RSVP: None needed. Just show up.

Women’s Gathering at Fletcher Bakery - Rebecca Parker -

  • Description: Join members of the Women’s Leadership Team for a warm cup of coffee & pastry on Saturday morning. Meet other ladies that attend Grace. Don’t worry about dressing up, grab some sweatpants, shoes & sweatshirt and head over. It’s ok if you just rolled out of bed or worked out. We don’t care, just come for some good conversation & weekend fellowship.
  • When: Saturday, February 18 at 9AM
  • Where: Fletcher Village Bakery and Cafe, 235 St. John Rd, Suite 70, Fletcher
  • RSVP: None needed. Just show up.

Women’s Bunco Night - Rebecca Parker -

  • Description: Do you like a little competition & games? If so, come out for a night of Bunco, a social dice game, that will allow you to chat with and get to know other women that attend Grace as you rotate tables. It will be a night to relax (well, maybe if you aren’t too competitive) and have some fun together.
  • When: Thursday, April 20 at 7PM
  • Where: Rebecca Parker’s Home
  • RSVP: Email Rebecca Parker for directions.

SAVE THE DATE - Women’s Retreat - Allison Rickman -

  • Description: Does an overnight get away spending time with other Grace ladies and time with God sound inviting? Join us for a one night retreat at the beginning of May. The theme will be about Your Story, Our Story and God’s Story. Plans and details are in process. Save the Date, let us know you are interested in attending and look forward to a night away with other Grace ladies.
  • When: Friday, May 5 - Saturday, May 6
  • Where: RidgeHaven Conference Center
  • Details are now available here

Men Only - Studies, Gatherings & Opportunities

Saturday Morning Breakfast Gathering - Dave Bokmiller -

  • Description: The Men's Breakfast Group meets for a time of fellowship, Bible-based study, discussion & prayer.
  • When: 1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month, 8AM - 9:30AM *watch the website for any schedule changes 
  • Where: GMR Cafe
  • Questions: Email Dave Bokmiller.

Wednesday Night Bible Study - Jim Pearce -

  • Description: A book study and a time for fellowship and mutual encouragement.
  • When: Wednesday evenings at 6:00PM
  • Where: GMR - Education Building - Room 304
  • Questions: Email Jim Pearce.

Men’s Hike - Lee Hunt -

  • Men’s Hike, April 15

    • April 15, Meet at 9:30 am (after Men’s Breakfast) at GMR parking lot.
    • Destination: John’s Rock hike off 276 in Pisgah Forest. 5-6 miles, medium difficulty, great views of Looking Glass, great fellowship. More details: https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/davidson-river/john-rock-loop
      Contact Lee Hunt -

See more upcoming Men's Events here

Prayer

Sunday Morning Prayer Gathering - Dave Bokmiller -

  • Description: Everyone is invited to join the prayer team to pray for our world, nation, community, church and one another. Each week prayer requests from the church family are shared and prayed for. You may come to be prayed over as well.
  • When: Sunday mornings from 9:45AM - 10:15AM
  • Where:  GMR - Education Building - Room 304
  • Questions: Email Dave Bokmiller to receive the prayer list.

YOUTH

Watershed - Sunday Morning Youth Group - Greg Lieb -

  • Description: Students (6th - 12th grade) are invited to join the youth group on Sunday morning to share a short talk on Jesus, games, and singing together in community. 
  • When: Sunday mornings from 9AM - 10:15AM
  • Where: GMR Youth Room - Located upstairs
  • Questions: Email Greg Lieb for details.

Winter / Spring Shed Activities - Greg Lieb -

  • Description: Watershed Small Groups will meet on Wednesday evenings to share time in God’s word and hang out together. We will meet in groups of HS guys, HS girls, MS guys and MS girls.
  • When: Wednesdays from 6:30PM - 8PM
  • Where: GMR Youth Room
  • Questions: Email Greg Lieb for details.

Winter / Spring Youth Activities Calendar - Greg Lieb -

CHILDREN

Sunday Morning Children’s Classes - Christen Stewart -

  • Description: Children’s classes that partner with and support families showing each child how to love God’s world, be in God’s family, and live in the joy of God’s gospel.
  • When: Sunday mornings from 10:30AM - end of worship service
  • Where: GMR Children’s Hallway & Education Building
    • We currently have an infant, preschool class (ages 2-4) & three elementary classes (Kindergarten, 1st-3rd grade & 4th/5th grade).
  • Check-in Sunday morning at the CM Welcome Area

MERCY

Widows Group - Fran Li - or 239.248.2477 

  • Description: Join others that have lost spouses for a time of sharing, fellowship and relationship.
  • When: Once a month, usually on the 3rd Friday at 2:30PM
  • Where: Second Act, Hendersonville
  • Questions: Email Fran Li to confirm day, time & location.

Our Journey of Hope - Kathie Sorenson -  

  • Description: Do you know someone who is battling cancer- a neighbor, friend or loved one? Our Journey of Hope is a biblically-based cancer care ministry open to anyone who is ready to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. We want to bring practical support and the hope of Christ to every person in our congregation and community affected by this illness.
  • Questions: Contact Kathie Sorenson to register for the Our Journey of Hope training that will equip and commission you for this special outreach. Materials are provided free of charge. This ministry supports those diagnosed with cancer, those that know someone diagnosed or those caring for someone with cancer.

OUTREACH

Local

GMR Local Partnerships

*Listed below are organizations that support our local community in various ways. We support their work financially and through volunteerism. If you are looking for a place to serve, we would recommend you connect with one of these organizations or the GMR member listed below.

  • Black Mountain Home for Children - www.blackmountainhome.org
    • Paul Shogren -
  • Least of These - www.leastoftheseasheville.com
    • Liz Loop -

Backpack Program - Christen Stewart -

  • Description: Consider donating non-perishable, lightweight, child friendly items to the Feed the Need program. We will be collecting these throughout the school year to help supplement food for local families in need.
  • Suggested Food Items: ramen noodles, fruit cups, individually packaged snacks, mac and cheese bowls, oatmeal, granola bars, Chef Boyardee cups, cereal and poptarts.
  • Where: collection bins are located on the CM hallway
  • Questions: If you are interested in volunteering to help with collection, organization, or food delivery, please contact Christen Stewart.

Global

GMR Global Missionaries

*Please pray for our Global Missionaries as they serve & share the gospel throughout the world. You can learn more about them and their work on the Grace website - https://www.gracemillsriver.org/ministries/global-missions/grace-missionaries/.

  • Scott Rayl - Nigeria
  • Josiah & Barbara Bancroft - Global
  • Joel & Cindy Hylton - Global
  • Ann Kieser - Uganda
  • Edward & Christine Isingoma - Uganda
  • Chip & Meredith Jones - Chile
  • Gary & Ashley Helms - London
  • Yobani Alas - Honduras
  • Knickers for New Life - Uganda
  • Colin Thornley - Global 

COMMUNITY & BODY LIFE

Becoming Family - Membership Class - Allison Rickman -

  • Description: Join us to learn more about Grace ministries, our distinctives, values, philosophy and vision. This is a great way to get to know us whether you want to find out more about GMR or are ready to become a member. *Required for membership.
  • When: Sunday mornings, February 5, 12 & 19 from 9:00AM to 10:00AM
  • Where: GMR Education Building - Room 306
  • Register: GraceMillsRiver.churchcenter.com/registrations

Shepherding Ministry - Rick Hebert -

  • Description: The Grace elders are committed to shepherding the members as encouraged in scripture. The purpose of the Shepherding Ministry is to help every member feel cared for, and encouraged to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • Basic Structure: Each member is assigned to a Parish based on their home address. A Parish Shepherd, GMR elder, is assigned to each parish. Each member is also a part of a smaller group of members called a flock. Each parish is made up of multiple flocks. Each flock has a Flock Advocate, a leader or lay member who is trained to provide a personal connection with each member of their flock.
  • Questions: Email Rick Hebert.

Ways to Serve the GMR Body

Meal Train - Sheryl Mathis - or Julie Ledford -