reflections from 2024
In my own Bible reading this week I came across this passage in Paul’s letter written to a young man named Titus, “For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:3-7 ESV)
I intended to include a much shorter section of the above passage but when I got started … I couldn’t stop. It is so beautiful, so hopeful, so freeing, and so counter all other wisdoms.
Our life together at Grace of Christ is much more than the collective sum of our individual efforts. We are not a cause or club. We are not a political organization, a community improvement association, a self-empowerment group. What we are involved in as a Christian church, as Jesus people, includes some of each of the above but it is so much more. We are connected to a source of power and transformation that is other-worldly, supernatural, Divine.
Sometimes I forget the magnificence of what I am, we are, a part of at Grace. Everything we do, Sundays together, midweek studies and support, coming alongside youth and children, grieving with those in pain, contributing to the spread of the good news of Jesus in far off places, and in schools and neighborhoods in our community, brings us and others into contact with the power and love of the God and Savior of all.
It is rarely flashy. I confess I like flashy. But authentic life change often moves slowly, two-steps forward and one-step back, moments of joy followed by times of sorrow, learning to let go of addictions and distortions and learning to live each day with different priorities, as a follower of Jesus.
That’s who we are, and who we want to be. As we come together for our annual meeting we will hear reports of the year past, we will talk about where we believe God is taking us. As we do let us forget Christian life is not humanly possible. Honestly, we would not want it to be.
“But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
Or as Eugene Peterson paraphrased this, ““But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God’s gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives.” (The Message)
God is constantly at work in us and through us, taking us, and others, on a journey from death to life, from darkness to light, from fear to freedom, from a life with no good future to an eternity full of wonder, joy, and delight.
~ Together at Grace, Curt
I intended to include a much shorter section of the above passage but when I got started … I couldn’t stop. It is so beautiful, so hopeful, so freeing, and so counter all other wisdoms.
Our life together at Grace of Christ is much more than the collective sum of our individual efforts. We are not a cause or club. We are not a political organization, a community improvement association, a self-empowerment group. What we are involved in as a Christian church, as Jesus people, includes some of each of the above but it is so much more. We are connected to a source of power and transformation that is other-worldly, supernatural, Divine.
Sometimes I forget the magnificence of what I am, we are, a part of at Grace. Everything we do, Sundays together, midweek studies and support, coming alongside youth and children, grieving with those in pain, contributing to the spread of the good news of Jesus in far off places, and in schools and neighborhoods in our community, brings us and others into contact with the power and love of the God and Savior of all.
It is rarely flashy. I confess I like flashy. But authentic life change often moves slowly, two-steps forward and one-step back, moments of joy followed by times of sorrow, learning to let go of addictions and distortions and learning to live each day with different priorities, as a follower of Jesus.
That’s who we are, and who we want to be. As we come together for our annual meeting we will hear reports of the year past, we will talk about where we believe God is taking us. As we do let us forget Christian life is not humanly possible. Honestly, we would not want it to be.
“But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
Or as Eugene Peterson paraphrased this, ““But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God’s gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives.” (The Message)
God is constantly at work in us and through us, taking us, and others, on a journey from death to life, from darkness to light, from fear to freedom, from a life with no good future to an eternity full of wonder, joy, and delight.
~ Together at Grace, Curt
deacon ministry
“Therefore, as Gods chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
The 17 members of the 2024 deacon board, knowing they were chosen and dearly loved by God and the people of Grace, chose to dress their hearts and hands with the attributes of love listed in Colossians 3:12. The Deacon Ministry was restructured, and our focus of love and service was funneled into 3 pillars.
Congregational Care Pillar
We faithfully visit, call or send cards to those of Grace who need support and love. We have shared our financial resources to meet practical needs. We added and maintained Care Notes Literature to the kiosk at the Welcome Center.
“Thank you, Deacons, for helping me move into my new apartment. I could not have done it alone.”
“Thank you, Deacons, for the Easter gift. I planted the seed cross and am looking forward to seeing it sprout.”
“Dear Deacons, thank you for including the Care Note on grief in your card. It helped me and gave me hope.”
We have come alongside other ministries of Grace by hosting several Wednesday of Grace dinners and a luncheon for a visiting missionary. In December we delivered homemade candy to 60 Grace members or families as part of our traditional Christmas Cheer.
“Imagine our surprise when we answered our door, and a beloved Deacon handed us a gift of delicious homemade candy! Thank you, Deacons, for loving us!”
Communion Pillar
Each month Deacons prepare the elements and stand with the Elders to serve the people of Grace.
“Thank you for coming to our home and serving us communion. Every month we sit in our recliners with our juice and crackers and participate online. But this month was so special to us being served. We love our church!”
Celebration of Life Pillar
Deacons have the privilege to come alongside family and friends by hosting a reception honoring their loved one. In December we delivered an Amaryllis bulb to family members in memory of their loved one.
“Thank you, dear Deacons, for the beautiful and delicious luncheon you provided for my husband’s celebration of life. During a time when I was weary and couldn’t think, you thought of everything! I appreciate you all so much!”
“Dear Deacons, thank you for the lovely Amaryllis bulb in memory of my mother. It began to bloom the day after you delivered it! Each day I am reminded of her love and life. Bless you all!”
“Do everything in love.” 1Corinthians 16:14
~ Peggy Steere (Moderator)
The 17 members of the 2024 deacon board, knowing they were chosen and dearly loved by God and the people of Grace, chose to dress their hearts and hands with the attributes of love listed in Colossians 3:12. The Deacon Ministry was restructured, and our focus of love and service was funneled into 3 pillars.
Congregational Care Pillar
We faithfully visit, call or send cards to those of Grace who need support and love. We have shared our financial resources to meet practical needs. We added and maintained Care Notes Literature to the kiosk at the Welcome Center.
“Thank you, Deacons, for helping me move into my new apartment. I could not have done it alone.”
“Thank you, Deacons, for the Easter gift. I planted the seed cross and am looking forward to seeing it sprout.”
“Dear Deacons, thank you for including the Care Note on grief in your card. It helped me and gave me hope.”
We have come alongside other ministries of Grace by hosting several Wednesday of Grace dinners and a luncheon for a visiting missionary. In December we delivered homemade candy to 60 Grace members or families as part of our traditional Christmas Cheer.
“Imagine our surprise when we answered our door, and a beloved Deacon handed us a gift of delicious homemade candy! Thank you, Deacons, for loving us!”
Communion Pillar
Each month Deacons prepare the elements and stand with the Elders to serve the people of Grace.
“Thank you for coming to our home and serving us communion. Every month we sit in our recliners with our juice and crackers and participate online. But this month was so special to us being served. We love our church!”
Celebration of Life Pillar
Deacons have the privilege to come alongside family and friends by hosting a reception honoring their loved one. In December we delivered an Amaryllis bulb to family members in memory of their loved one.
“Thank you, dear Deacons, for the beautiful and delicious luncheon you provided for my husband’s celebration of life. During a time when I was weary and couldn’t think, you thought of everything! I appreciate you all so much!”
“Dear Deacons, thank you for the lovely Amaryllis bulb in memory of my mother. It began to bloom the day after you delivered it! Each day I am reminded of her love and life. Bless you all!”
“Do everything in love.” 1Corinthians 16:14
~ Peggy Steere (Moderator)
Family & children's Ministries
Family Ministries had an exciting year in 2024! I was reminded of the verse in Genesis 28:16, Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.”
Of course, we know the Lord is a mighty presence at GOC, permeating the atmosphere, working through the ministries and others, but seeing Him work through all the details and planning of every event was truly awesome.
In June, Children’s Ministries hosted Perry the Poetry Fairy. Perry the Poetry Fairy is Susan Blair, author and publisher of several children's poetry books. She visited us as a sparkling, dazzling fairy complete with wings and a wand and enchanted those who attended with haikus, rhymes, and limericks of children’s poems. Those who came were welcomed to a veggie cup charcuterie reception after.
In April, GraceKids presented their Palm Sunday program. A wonderful morning of having our children participate in worship.
Family Ministries hosted two Starry Starry Nights in 2024, evenings of classical and sacred music. This event continues to be open to the community and we have seen tremendous support from those both inside and outside our walls. It is a unique opportunity to reach people whom otherwise we may not have made connections with and share with our love of others and Jesus through the arts.
In August, we held VBS. This was an amazing week! We had slightly under 100 kids, a full staff, and an ever-present Holy Spirit. The kids who came were blessed, families were welcomed, and lives were impacted.
In the fall of 2024 Family Ministries led staff through a training titled, Grace and Truth by Dr. Preston Sprinkle from the Center of Faith, Gender, and Sexuality. This training was to help gain a better understanding of the LGBQT+ community and to equip us in how to love, listen, and come alongside people who may think differently than we do in this ever complicated and controversial topic.
In October, Family Ministries was hard at work preparing for The Gender, Faith, and Sexuality conference. Unfortunately, signups were low, and the conference was cancelled. However, the training and conversations hosting this conference sparked, were necessary and fundamental in helping us grow as a church more in the ways of Jesus.
Trunk or Treat was held on the last Friday in October. This event has continued to grow, this year The Vintiques of Yakima participated as did many from outside our church community. We not only had the largest participation this year, but we also had the most trick or treaters. The community came out that night, and families were served, and this was a wonderful opportunity to love those around us and build relationships within our community.
In December, GraceKids held their Christmas program on December 8th and hosted a breakfast for families in between services. This was a very special time for families to connect with one another and share a delicious pancake charcuterie breakfast.
The Christmas Eve Family service this year was a totally new experience! Families were invited to participate in reenacting the Christmas story culminating in a live nativity. It was a very special evening, and families of all ages were excited to dress up and be involved. What a beautiful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
~ Sarah Huck, Director of Family and Children’s Ministries
Of course, we know the Lord is a mighty presence at GOC, permeating the atmosphere, working through the ministries and others, but seeing Him work through all the details and planning of every event was truly awesome.
In June, Children’s Ministries hosted Perry the Poetry Fairy. Perry the Poetry Fairy is Susan Blair, author and publisher of several children's poetry books. She visited us as a sparkling, dazzling fairy complete with wings and a wand and enchanted those who attended with haikus, rhymes, and limericks of children’s poems. Those who came were welcomed to a veggie cup charcuterie reception after.
In April, GraceKids presented their Palm Sunday program. A wonderful morning of having our children participate in worship.
Family Ministries hosted two Starry Starry Nights in 2024, evenings of classical and sacred music. This event continues to be open to the community and we have seen tremendous support from those both inside and outside our walls. It is a unique opportunity to reach people whom otherwise we may not have made connections with and share with our love of others and Jesus through the arts.
In August, we held VBS. This was an amazing week! We had slightly under 100 kids, a full staff, and an ever-present Holy Spirit. The kids who came were blessed, families were welcomed, and lives were impacted.
In the fall of 2024 Family Ministries led staff through a training titled, Grace and Truth by Dr. Preston Sprinkle from the Center of Faith, Gender, and Sexuality. This training was to help gain a better understanding of the LGBQT+ community and to equip us in how to love, listen, and come alongside people who may think differently than we do in this ever complicated and controversial topic.
In October, Family Ministries was hard at work preparing for The Gender, Faith, and Sexuality conference. Unfortunately, signups were low, and the conference was cancelled. However, the training and conversations hosting this conference sparked, were necessary and fundamental in helping us grow as a church more in the ways of Jesus.
Trunk or Treat was held on the last Friday in October. This event has continued to grow, this year The Vintiques of Yakima participated as did many from outside our church community. We not only had the largest participation this year, but we also had the most trick or treaters. The community came out that night, and families were served, and this was a wonderful opportunity to love those around us and build relationships within our community.
In December, GraceKids held their Christmas program on December 8th and hosted a breakfast for families in between services. This was a very special time for families to connect with one another and share a delicious pancake charcuterie breakfast.
The Christmas Eve Family service this year was a totally new experience! Families were invited to participate in reenacting the Christmas story culminating in a live nativity. It was a very special evening, and families of all ages were excited to dress up and be involved. What a beautiful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
~ Sarah Huck, Director of Family and Children’s Ministries
student Ministries
In January, we began visiting other ministries, following a pattern we were observing of deeper encounters taking place when we were ‘off-site’. This led to an excursion to On-Fire Ministries which was a divine encounter for many students that night, as well as attending a Youth Conference in April, which was also extremely formative for our students who attended.
In March, we noticed a significant spiritual shift. In general, if felt like our students were finally relaxing and feeling more “at-home” as a group; and also initiating personally with the gospel, pursuing more opportunities to connect with Jesus!
All the while, we have our School of Ministry and Leadership growing in consistency and reliability; as well as our Young Adult Ministry, led by Kathaleen McFarland, continuing to be well attended and well received.
In May there was a rush of seven youth who took their OWN initiative to seek baptism, without being recruited by us! It was thrilling to hear the testimonies of them feeling drawn by The Spirit to either trust Him for the first time or take the obedient step of professing their faith through baptism.
In June, our connection with On-Fire continued, as their volunteers formed about half of the counselors for our Outreach Camp. It was an incredible time for me to share the gospel with the kids and, together with Nina and John giving the altar call, to pray with hundreds of them to invite Jesus into their hearts and lives. Undeniably a miraculous move of God’s Spirit.
In July we went on a MISSION! It was an incredible time of watching our students have deep and impactful encounters with God and each other that took them to new levels of intimacy and trust in their faith journey with Jesus.
In July and continuing into the Fall, we split the Breakfast Club into High School and Middle School Sunday Club, and what a difference! The youth are much more comfortable and talkative now that they’re in age-specific groups! So fun to watch the relationships and community build.
My favorite testimony from the year is a comment of gratitude offered on a prayer card from September: “Something that God has shown me was when my grandma asked me to go to church with her and since I’ve went I have felt a lot of Spirit and love it.”
My favorite testimony from October is the response from a student who recently lost a cousin in a drive by shooting who shared what God was showing them lately: “To Keep Moving Forward (John3:16) #thisisGod”. Or another student who experienced a heartbreaking break up who shared that God was showing her to: “View things in a different perspective; wait for God’s time.”
In November we invited our parents to attend a night of Worship and Testimony. We had an incredibly powerful time of everyone, parent and youth alike, taking a turn to share what God has done for them recently or how they’d seen God be at work in their lives. I can’t begin to describe how much PLEASURE I felt God took in that occasion. Everyone went away encouraged and strengthened as a family of faith. It was holy.
Thank you to our SML and YAM leaders: Don Stuber, Larissa Belknap and Kathaleen McFarland. Thank you to our SML Interns: Aaron Brown, Issac Gambito, Linda Camarillo and Alex Moran. Thank you to my Youth Prayer Team: Jo Branca, Jackie Anderson, Sharon Trick, Carla Kupp, Betty Rosenkranz and Rebecca Whitmore. Thank you to our regular volunteers: Donnie Ide, Jamie and Braden Althaus, Shane and Amae Merrill and John Yolo. Thank you to our INCREDIBLE Student Ministry Assistant: Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa. And to the dozens of supporters who led hikes, cooked meals, brought goodies, hosted parties, etc all year long.
~ Kara Brown, Director of Student Ministries
In March, we noticed a significant spiritual shift. In general, if felt like our students were finally relaxing and feeling more “at-home” as a group; and also initiating personally with the gospel, pursuing more opportunities to connect with Jesus!
All the while, we have our School of Ministry and Leadership growing in consistency and reliability; as well as our Young Adult Ministry, led by Kathaleen McFarland, continuing to be well attended and well received.
In May there was a rush of seven youth who took their OWN initiative to seek baptism, without being recruited by us! It was thrilling to hear the testimonies of them feeling drawn by The Spirit to either trust Him for the first time or take the obedient step of professing their faith through baptism.
In June, our connection with On-Fire continued, as their volunteers formed about half of the counselors for our Outreach Camp. It was an incredible time for me to share the gospel with the kids and, together with Nina and John giving the altar call, to pray with hundreds of them to invite Jesus into their hearts and lives. Undeniably a miraculous move of God’s Spirit.
In July we went on a MISSION! It was an incredible time of watching our students have deep and impactful encounters with God and each other that took them to new levels of intimacy and trust in their faith journey with Jesus.
In July and continuing into the Fall, we split the Breakfast Club into High School and Middle School Sunday Club, and what a difference! The youth are much more comfortable and talkative now that they’re in age-specific groups! So fun to watch the relationships and community build.
My favorite testimony from the year is a comment of gratitude offered on a prayer card from September: “Something that God has shown me was when my grandma asked me to go to church with her and since I’ve went I have felt a lot of Spirit and love it.”
My favorite testimony from October is the response from a student who recently lost a cousin in a drive by shooting who shared what God was showing them lately: “To Keep Moving Forward (John3:16) #thisisGod”. Or another student who experienced a heartbreaking break up who shared that God was showing her to: “View things in a different perspective; wait for God’s time.”
In November we invited our parents to attend a night of Worship and Testimony. We had an incredibly powerful time of everyone, parent and youth alike, taking a turn to share what God has done for them recently or how they’d seen God be at work in their lives. I can’t begin to describe how much PLEASURE I felt God took in that occasion. Everyone went away encouraged and strengthened as a family of faith. It was holy.
Thank you to our SML and YAM leaders: Don Stuber, Larissa Belknap and Kathaleen McFarland. Thank you to our SML Interns: Aaron Brown, Issac Gambito, Linda Camarillo and Alex Moran. Thank you to my Youth Prayer Team: Jo Branca, Jackie Anderson, Sharon Trick, Carla Kupp, Betty Rosenkranz and Rebecca Whitmore. Thank you to our regular volunteers: Donnie Ide, Jamie and Braden Althaus, Shane and Amae Merrill and John Yolo. Thank you to our INCREDIBLE Student Ministry Assistant: Jahzeel Garcia-Figueroa. And to the dozens of supporters who led hikes, cooked meals, brought goodies, hosted parties, etc all year long.
~ Kara Brown, Director of Student Ministries
grace school of ministry & leadership
intern program
The School of Ministry and Leadership has been extremely blessed by the Grace of Christ community. So many members of this church and the greater body of Christ have been willing to share their God given gifts to teach, love on, and support our interns. The fruit of this sacrifice was noticeable as soon as the program began its second year. One of my favorite moments was watching the interns realize their growth by stating, “Look at us being all mature!” They continue to learn and develop their own gifts as they receive from the Grace of Christ community. Thank you for giving them this opportunity to grow and develop as they seek to serve God both at Grace and in the greater “church” of Yakima County.
Our interns are involved in several areas at Grace. Their involvement with the youth program, on the tech team, and with our preschool provide a place for them to learn and serve. You can find them helping with sound and lighting during Sunday services, meeting with church staff during the week as they assist in developing the Grace of Christ website as well as helping with other social media needs. They also have the opportunity to learn and serve in the preschool program weekly.
Most of the interns’ time is spent supporting youth ministry. This includes attending weekly planning meetings, leading the Wednesday Youth Group, and leading the Breakfast Club on Sunday mornings. At youth retreats and Ghormley events, they are involved in planning the program, leading worship, and teaching. Interns served on a mission trip on the Warm Springs Reservation this last summer as they developed even deeper relationships with Grace of Christ youth. Interns also spent their summer serving at Camp Ghormley. They are eager to serve at Ghormley again this summer.
We want to thank you again for providing this opportunity for the interns. They are able to receive their college degrees and training through the Northwest Partnership Program while also developing their gifts with the hands-on experience that this internship provides. It has been a blessing to see these interns develop and it is exciting to imagine and plan for what God has in store for them next. You have created and supported a program that builds the body of Christ. Thank you!
Do you know a High School Senior that would be blessed by participating in the School of Ministry and Leadership? Please contact Kara Brown (Kara@Yakimagrace.com).
~ Larissa Belknap, Intern Director
Our interns are involved in several areas at Grace. Their involvement with the youth program, on the tech team, and with our preschool provide a place for them to learn and serve. You can find them helping with sound and lighting during Sunday services, meeting with church staff during the week as they assist in developing the Grace of Christ website as well as helping with other social media needs. They also have the opportunity to learn and serve in the preschool program weekly.
Most of the interns’ time is spent supporting youth ministry. This includes attending weekly planning meetings, leading the Wednesday Youth Group, and leading the Breakfast Club on Sunday mornings. At youth retreats and Ghormley events, they are involved in planning the program, leading worship, and teaching. Interns served on a mission trip on the Warm Springs Reservation this last summer as they developed even deeper relationships with Grace of Christ youth. Interns also spent their summer serving at Camp Ghormley. They are eager to serve at Ghormley again this summer.
We want to thank you again for providing this opportunity for the interns. They are able to receive their college degrees and training through the Northwest Partnership Program while also developing their gifts with the hands-on experience that this internship provides. It has been a blessing to see these interns develop and it is exciting to imagine and plan for what God has in store for them next. You have created and supported a program that builds the body of Christ. Thank you!
Do you know a High School Senior that would be blessed by participating in the School of Ministry and Leadership? Please contact Kara Brown (Kara@Yakimagrace.com).
~ Larissa Belknap, Intern Director
Preschool
Our tagline for preschool has been “Learn – Play – Grow – Believe!” and that is exactly what we’ve been doing this entire year! We have 17 amazing students and families that have made this year a delight.
More than ever, the preschool is dedicated to being financially responsible and good stewards of the fundraising, donations, gifts, and tuition we raise. I have reduced the hours I work during the week and returned to an hourly position. Our teachers have taken on more leadership with parents, curriculum, and administrative tasks. We also decided to scale back to one classroom: Our PreK students attend class every day. Our 3-Day students come Mon/Wed/Fri. This change in program means we can continue to offer everything that makes our school special (music, PE, chapel, field trips, individualized instruction, a full range of academics, and more!) while staying within our budget.
Each year around this time, we start to pray and listen for what God is saying to our preschool. Every year, even in the years we struggle to find students to enroll, we hear God saying “There are still little ones who don’t know me yet. They need the love, guidance, and support of this church and community. I will send who needs to come.” Although it looks different, the mission of the preschool has stayed the same for the last 40 years: Preparing young hearts and minds for Kindergarten and beyond through the love of Jesus and the community at Grace of Christ.
Registration is starting for the 2025-26 school year. Pray for families to find us. Tell your friends and neighbors we are still here and still going strong. Hang a flyer in your small business. Share our posts on Facebook. Let’s get the word out about Yakima Grace Preschool and build God’s Kingdom through these little hearts and minds!
Preschool Staff:
Becca Mailand – Director; Amber Miller – Lead Teacher; Amiya Aparicio – Assistant Teacher
Preschool Board:
Robin Stuber – Board Chair; Darlene Fairbrook, Jean Schiewe, Carla Kupp, Amanda Zediker
~ Becca Mailand, Director of Preschool
More than ever, the preschool is dedicated to being financially responsible and good stewards of the fundraising, donations, gifts, and tuition we raise. I have reduced the hours I work during the week and returned to an hourly position. Our teachers have taken on more leadership with parents, curriculum, and administrative tasks. We also decided to scale back to one classroom: Our PreK students attend class every day. Our 3-Day students come Mon/Wed/Fri. This change in program means we can continue to offer everything that makes our school special (music, PE, chapel, field trips, individualized instruction, a full range of academics, and more!) while staying within our budget.
Each year around this time, we start to pray and listen for what God is saying to our preschool. Every year, even in the years we struggle to find students to enroll, we hear God saying “There are still little ones who don’t know me yet. They need the love, guidance, and support of this church and community. I will send who needs to come.” Although it looks different, the mission of the preschool has stayed the same for the last 40 years: Preparing young hearts and minds for Kindergarten and beyond through the love of Jesus and the community at Grace of Christ.
Registration is starting for the 2025-26 school year. Pray for families to find us. Tell your friends and neighbors we are still here and still going strong. Hang a flyer in your small business. Share our posts on Facebook. Let’s get the word out about Yakima Grace Preschool and build God’s Kingdom through these little hearts and minds!
Preschool Staff:
Becca Mailand – Director; Amber Miller – Lead Teacher; Amiya Aparicio – Assistant Teacher
Preschool Board:
Robin Stuber – Board Chair; Darlene Fairbrook, Jean Schiewe, Carla Kupp, Amanda Zediker
~ Becca Mailand, Director of Preschool
mission ministry
Mission Ministry Team 2024: Rosanne Bacon, Michele Elledge, Pat Erickson, Mariana Giles, Donnie Ide, Curt McFarland, Betty Rosenkranz, Joyce Sagare, Monte Schilperoort, Don Stuber, and Rebecca Whitmore.
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:21
Another year has come and gone, and once again I see God’s hand at work through Grace of Christ with Grace members reaching out to be God’s hands and feet both locally and throughout the world by stepping up to live out 1 John 4:21. Thank you for loving on the Adams students through the reading program and the Angel Tree Christmas gifts and party. Thank you for volunteering at Davis high school and with the Trailseekers program each week. Thank you for meeting our neighbors’ needs through the Clothing Exchange, the Union Gospel Mission, and Love, INC. These are just a few of the amazing ways that Grace of Christ has stretched out to help fulfill the Great Commission.
Another way that Grace members reached out to those in need was through the youth mission trip in Warm Springs, Oregon, last summer. The mission in Warm Springs is connected with the Sacred Road ministry that Grace supports in White Swan. Thank you for reaching out through the Love of Jesus Christ to those in physical and spiritual need. Your generosity has changed lives. Thank you.
Additionally, Grace of Christ members Gerardo Mendoza and Joseph Leary have stepped out into the mission field locally and have been added as Grace of Christ supported missionaries. Gerardo is officially with Young Life and the newly reopened Madison House as of Fall 2024. Joseph’s ministry has moved from Davis to the Toppenish Tribal School, reaching out to students through multiple avenues at the school. If you can, please take a moment and speak with Gerardo and Joseph about the new ministry paths that God is leading them on. I know that they would greatly appreciate your interest and your prayers. Thank you for supporting MMT and Grace of Christ Missions.
~ Michele Elledge
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. 1 John 4:21
Another year has come and gone, and once again I see God’s hand at work through Grace of Christ with Grace members reaching out to be God’s hands and feet both locally and throughout the world by stepping up to live out 1 John 4:21. Thank you for loving on the Adams students through the reading program and the Angel Tree Christmas gifts and party. Thank you for volunteering at Davis high school and with the Trailseekers program each week. Thank you for meeting our neighbors’ needs through the Clothing Exchange, the Union Gospel Mission, and Love, INC. These are just a few of the amazing ways that Grace of Christ has stretched out to help fulfill the Great Commission.
Another way that Grace members reached out to those in need was through the youth mission trip in Warm Springs, Oregon, last summer. The mission in Warm Springs is connected with the Sacred Road ministry that Grace supports in White Swan. Thank you for reaching out through the Love of Jesus Christ to those in physical and spiritual need. Your generosity has changed lives. Thank you.
Additionally, Grace of Christ members Gerardo Mendoza and Joseph Leary have stepped out into the mission field locally and have been added as Grace of Christ supported missionaries. Gerardo is officially with Young Life and the newly reopened Madison House as of Fall 2024. Joseph’s ministry has moved from Davis to the Toppenish Tribal School, reaching out to students through multiple avenues at the school. If you can, please take a moment and speak with Gerardo and Joseph about the new ministry paths that God is leading them on. I know that they would greatly appreciate your interest and your prayers. Thank you for supporting MMT and Grace of Christ Missions.
~ Michele Elledge
hospitality ministry
Hospitality Ministry Team 2024: Linda Mathews, Cathy Campbell, Joann Benson, Linda Drumhiller, Donnie Ide, Debbie Meyers, Diane Smith, and David Whiteside.
We serve to extend the Welcome of Jesus to all who come to worship on Sunday mornings. The various acts of service we participate in are Baptisms and Celebrations with a wonderful team led by Joann Benson. The Sunday morning refreshment team is led by Dave Whiteside. Dave is seeking a replacement due to outside family commitments. Donnie Ide heads our team of Ushers who serve Sunday mornings and during additional events in the sanctuary. The Greeters and Welcome Center volunteers are important to our Sunday mornings – most times being the first person guests see when they enter our church. The warm smiles, and genuine welcomes make a pleasant visit for guests and church family alike. The Sanctuary Guild adds additional beauty to the sanctuary during Easter and Christmas. Each of these areas of Hospitality are vital in our church life and there is always room for others to be a part of the groups in our ministry.
HMT helps to facilitate opportunities to fellowship within the church family through hosting several events that take place at Grace. Ash Wednesday soup dinner, Trunk or Treat and the Church Thanksgiving dinner are just a few. Last year we had the honor of celebrating Leo and Vivian Dormaier’s 80th wedding anniversary (married February 25, 1944) and Lois Hank’s 90th birthday.
Throughout 2024, the Lord has blessed us with wonderful volunteers who have continued to serve faithfully in this ministry. Whether it is once or twice a year, or once a month, none of this could be done without the army of volunteers who step up to serve in one or more areas of HMT! Stop by the Welcome Center to learn more and be a part of the team.
~ Linda Mathews and Cathy Campbell
We serve to extend the Welcome of Jesus to all who come to worship on Sunday mornings. The various acts of service we participate in are Baptisms and Celebrations with a wonderful team led by Joann Benson. The Sunday morning refreshment team is led by Dave Whiteside. Dave is seeking a replacement due to outside family commitments. Donnie Ide heads our team of Ushers who serve Sunday mornings and during additional events in the sanctuary. The Greeters and Welcome Center volunteers are important to our Sunday mornings – most times being the first person guests see when they enter our church. The warm smiles, and genuine welcomes make a pleasant visit for guests and church family alike. The Sanctuary Guild adds additional beauty to the sanctuary during Easter and Christmas. Each of these areas of Hospitality are vital in our church life and there is always room for others to be a part of the groups in our ministry.
HMT helps to facilitate opportunities to fellowship within the church family through hosting several events that take place at Grace. Ash Wednesday soup dinner, Trunk or Treat and the Church Thanksgiving dinner are just a few. Last year we had the honor of celebrating Leo and Vivian Dormaier’s 80th wedding anniversary (married February 25, 1944) and Lois Hank’s 90th birthday.
Throughout 2024, the Lord has blessed us with wonderful volunteers who have continued to serve faithfully in this ministry. Whether it is once or twice a year, or once a month, none of this could be done without the army of volunteers who step up to serve in one or more areas of HMT! Stop by the Welcome Center to learn more and be a part of the team.
~ Linda Mathews and Cathy Campbell
baptisms and covenant partners
We had eight individuals join as New Covenant partners in 2024. Seven children were baptized by sprinkling and nine were immersed for a total of 16 baptisms. It was exciting to see Grace Alexandra Johnson baptized by her grandfather, Rev. Alan Hilliker; and Peter Curtis Alexander baptized by his grandparents, Rev. Curt and Kathaleen McFarland.
I would also like to acknowledge the passing of two of our committee members this year. Vivian Marie Dormaier (April 6, 1927 to June 26, 2024) and Melody Elaine Marshall (July 1, 1946 to August 29, 2024.) Both ladies will be greatly missed, and we so appreciate their service on our committee for many years.
~ Joann Benson, Chair
I would also like to acknowledge the passing of two of our committee members this year. Vivian Marie Dormaier (April 6, 1927 to June 26, 2024) and Melody Elaine Marshall (July 1, 1946 to August 29, 2024.) Both ladies will be greatly missed, and we so appreciate their service on our committee for many years.
~ Joann Benson, Chair
Worship Ministry
With God’s Grace, we were able to continue to offer both contemporary and traditional services to those who choose to worship in-person, on the web, or even, on their phone! Online streaming has especially been a blessing for families who are planning a Celebration of Life for a loved one, allowing out-of-town friends and families to attend the service virtually.
Bell Tower Carillon Replaced: After 30 years of faithful service, the carillon for the Bell Tower went silent, resulting in numerous phone calls from our neighbors. “Where are the bells?” and “Will they be back?” Even the folks at Davis High School missed the hourly reminders that students should be in class. Thanks to our Grace of Christ Business Ministry Team for approval of reserve funds, we were able to replace the carillon with updated technology featuring much improved sound quality and management.
Download the App: The Yakima Grace App continues to be an easy way to watch online, as well as to stay connected with our Yakima Grace Family through notifications and easy access to publications such as Grace Alive, and the weekly Friday Letter and Sunday Flyer. If you haven’t already downloaded the App on your mobile device, simply go to your App store on your device and search for Yakima Grace – it’s totally free!
Special Thanks: Special appreciation goes to Dave Geho, Tony Hafner, John Yolo, Karen Laurvick, Peter Svensk and Helena Ojanen who volunteered many hours to serve our Church Family on Sunday mornings. Thank you for your continued, faithful service to our Lord.
Join Us! Now is a great time to connect with our Tech Team. Won’t you consider joining the team? Please connect with Debbie Meyers at 248-7940 x109.
~ Debbie Meyers
Bell Tower Carillon Replaced: After 30 years of faithful service, the carillon for the Bell Tower went silent, resulting in numerous phone calls from our neighbors. “Where are the bells?” and “Will they be back?” Even the folks at Davis High School missed the hourly reminders that students should be in class. Thanks to our Grace of Christ Business Ministry Team for approval of reserve funds, we were able to replace the carillon with updated technology featuring much improved sound quality and management.
Download the App: The Yakima Grace App continues to be an easy way to watch online, as well as to stay connected with our Yakima Grace Family through notifications and easy access to publications such as Grace Alive, and the weekly Friday Letter and Sunday Flyer. If you haven’t already downloaded the App on your mobile device, simply go to your App store on your device and search for Yakima Grace – it’s totally free!
Special Thanks: Special appreciation goes to Dave Geho, Tony Hafner, John Yolo, Karen Laurvick, Peter Svensk and Helena Ojanen who volunteered many hours to serve our Church Family on Sunday mornings. Thank you for your continued, faithful service to our Lord.
Join Us! Now is a great time to connect with our Tech Team. Won’t you consider joining the team? Please connect with Debbie Meyers at 248-7940 x109.
~ Debbie Meyers
Worship Ministry: prayer
Our Core Values at Grace of Christ state, “In Prayer we listen to, and seek to live in tune with, the Holy Spirit.”
Jesus tells us in His word that he wants His church (the body of Christ) to be a House of Prayer (Isaiah 56:7 & Mark 11:17). This has been the vision of the Grace Prayer Ministry for many years. This ministry is currently without a leader or an active committee, but prayer continues to be a high priority within each facet of this church. Ministry team meetings, staff meetings, Sunday worship, with our leadership teams, our finance department, in our children’s and youth programs, prayer is at the core.
The weekly Prayer Letter is full of praises and prayer requests shared by our church family each week. In addition, a Prayer Chain is available for urgent prayer requests. We are so grateful for the dedicated group of Prayer Partners who are available after Sunday services and for the intercessors who pray faithfully and intercede during the church services. Pray Yakima 24/7 gives us the opportunity to lift up the Yakima Valley in prayer on the second Sunday of each month. When more extensive individual prayer is requested, trained Sozo prayer partners are available. There are women who meet each Tuesday to pray and intercede for the staff and leadership at Grace. Our student ministry has a vibrant group of people who pray and intercede each Sunday morning and Wednesday evening while youth events are happening.
In His priestly role, Jesus clears the way for human beings to approach our Father in heaven through prayer.” Prayer is a 2-way conversation and God’s plans are accomplished through our prayers with Him.
Our hope in 2025 is that this church continues to grow the vision of prayer permeating every area of ministry in our church, nurture and grow the intercessory prayer teams and seek a Prayer Ministry Coordinator and team to oversee all the areas of prayer ministry at Grace of Christ.
Jesus tells us in His word that he wants His church (the body of Christ) to be a House of Prayer (Isaiah 56:7 & Mark 11:17). This has been the vision of the Grace Prayer Ministry for many years. This ministry is currently without a leader or an active committee, but prayer continues to be a high priority within each facet of this church. Ministry team meetings, staff meetings, Sunday worship, with our leadership teams, our finance department, in our children’s and youth programs, prayer is at the core.
The weekly Prayer Letter is full of praises and prayer requests shared by our church family each week. In addition, a Prayer Chain is available for urgent prayer requests. We are so grateful for the dedicated group of Prayer Partners who are available after Sunday services and for the intercessors who pray faithfully and intercede during the church services. Pray Yakima 24/7 gives us the opportunity to lift up the Yakima Valley in prayer on the second Sunday of each month. When more extensive individual prayer is requested, trained Sozo prayer partners are available. There are women who meet each Tuesday to pray and intercede for the staff and leadership at Grace. Our student ministry has a vibrant group of people who pray and intercede each Sunday morning and Wednesday evening while youth events are happening.
In His priestly role, Jesus clears the way for human beings to approach our Father in heaven through prayer.” Prayer is a 2-way conversation and God’s plans are accomplished through our prayers with Him.
Our hope in 2025 is that this church continues to grow the vision of prayer permeating every area of ministry in our church, nurture and grow the intercessory prayer teams and seek a Prayer Ministry Coordinator and team to oversee all the areas of prayer ministry at Grace of Christ.
Worship Ministry: traditional service
It is an honor and a joy to serve in my capacity as director of traditional music and to lead our Temple Choir. In 2024, our choir actively contributed to our weekly worship services, presenting a diverse selection of anthems and hymns that complemented the liturgical calendar.
There were several memorable services in 2024, beginning with our 81st Carols and Candles service on Christmas Eve. It was a touching celebration of our Lord Jesus Christ, with music and scripture. Dr. Jon Waite’s much anticipated organ prelude was remarkable. The annual Festival of Hymns continues to draw people from our community to join our church family in singing some of our favorite hymns.
Our choir meets for regular rehearsal on Thursday evening, which is one of my favorite times of the week. The commitment our choir members make to lead our congregation in worship, to each other, and to our community is admirable. The love in our group and the genuine care for each other is something that I have felt since my first visit to Grace and it remains strong.
I express my heartfelt gratitude to the choir for their dedication and ministry. Special thanks to our organist Jon Waite, church leadership, congregation, and all who support the music ministry at Grace. I am eager and committed to another year of inspiring worship through musical excellence.
~ Jason Wickson
There were several memorable services in 2024, beginning with our 81st Carols and Candles service on Christmas Eve. It was a touching celebration of our Lord Jesus Christ, with music and scripture. Dr. Jon Waite’s much anticipated organ prelude was remarkable. The annual Festival of Hymns continues to draw people from our community to join our church family in singing some of our favorite hymns.
Our choir meets for regular rehearsal on Thursday evening, which is one of my favorite times of the week. The commitment our choir members make to lead our congregation in worship, to each other, and to our community is admirable. The love in our group and the genuine care for each other is something that I have felt since my first visit to Grace and it remains strong.
I express my heartfelt gratitude to the choir for their dedication and ministry. Special thanks to our organist Jon Waite, church leadership, congregation, and all who support the music ministry at Grace. I am eager and committed to another year of inspiring worship through musical excellence.
~ Jason Wickson
Worship Ministry: Contemporary Service
Greetings from Nathan Gross, Director of Contemporary Worship Ministries at Grace of Christ, and our whole worship team. 2024 was another wonderful year, a year of building friendships, and following God’s lead in many new and old ways. We continue to strive toward growing in our understanding of what it means to truly worship Him, and we continue to pray that our church family is able to draw closer to the Lord through our ministry.
We are constantly reminded of the many blessings and responsibilities that come with this calling, and the commitment of our team members cannot be missed. We want to make sure that it’s known that our team is always ready and willing to connect with new members. If you know anyone who should or would like to join us, please let us know! We are grateful for our team, and their willingness to serve the Lord, oftentimes sacrificially.
As we continue our connection with our Gracia De Cristo friends and family, and the music and language that are able to reach into our community in unique ways, we are constantly grateful for this opportunity. It’s been another year of stretching and growing, and we are blessed to have such a wonderful aspect of our worship services. We are excited to see where God takes it in this year to come.
We have added a new aspect of community this year, Fellowship Fun-day on the First Monday (FFFM). In that, we meet monthly with no agenda other than to hang out with each other, share some food, and grow our relationships. It’s been a wonderful addition, one that I’m glad God placed before us, and one that I hope continues to grow and bring us closer together and closer to Him.
We are excited as we look forward to 2025, following God’s lead in praise and worship! We pray that God’s grace, love, peace, kindness and mercy continue to fill your lives throughout this upcoming year. Thank you for being a part of our wonderful Grace family!
~ Nathan Gross
We are constantly reminded of the many blessings and responsibilities that come with this calling, and the commitment of our team members cannot be missed. We want to make sure that it’s known that our team is always ready and willing to connect with new members. If you know anyone who should or would like to join us, please let us know! We are grateful for our team, and their willingness to serve the Lord, oftentimes sacrificially.
As we continue our connection with our Gracia De Cristo friends and family, and the music and language that are able to reach into our community in unique ways, we are constantly grateful for this opportunity. It’s been another year of stretching and growing, and we are blessed to have such a wonderful aspect of our worship services. We are excited to see where God takes it in this year to come.
We have added a new aspect of community this year, Fellowship Fun-day on the First Monday (FFFM). In that, we meet monthly with no agenda other than to hang out with each other, share some food, and grow our relationships. It’s been a wonderful addition, one that I’m glad God placed before us, and one that I hope continues to grow and bring us closer together and closer to Him.
We are excited as we look forward to 2025, following God’s lead in praise and worship! We pray that God’s grace, love, peace, kindness and mercy continue to fill your lives throughout this upcoming year. Thank you for being a part of our wonderful Grace family!
~ Nathan Gross
men's & women's ministries
WOMEN OF THE WORD BIBLE STUDY
The Tuesday morning Women Of the Word (WOW) Bible study continues its rich history of digging into God’s word and supporting one another in prayer and fellowship. A team of facilitators lead WOW, and we are especially grateful for Ericka Clark, John Stolzenbach and Pastor Curt McFarland, who share their time, insights and love for God’s word and the WOW ladies. Our spring Life Guide study was "Prayer, An Adventure with God" and the fall study, "Ephesians: Wholeness in a broken World”. WOW welcomes all Grace women, their family members and friends.
~ Submitted by Donna Fuhlman and Donna Oliva
MEN’S MINISTRIES
Men meet monthly for a home-cooked, hot breakfast at the church. This group of men has become a small group, growing closer in friendship and encouraging one another on their faith journeys.
The Tuesday morning Women Of the Word (WOW) Bible study continues its rich history of digging into God’s word and supporting one another in prayer and fellowship. A team of facilitators lead WOW, and we are especially grateful for Ericka Clark, John Stolzenbach and Pastor Curt McFarland, who share their time, insights and love for God’s word and the WOW ladies. Our spring Life Guide study was "Prayer, An Adventure with God" and the fall study, "Ephesians: Wholeness in a broken World”. WOW welcomes all Grace women, their family members and friends.
~ Submitted by Donna Fuhlman and Donna Oliva
MEN’S MINISTRIES
Men meet monthly for a home-cooked, hot breakfast at the church. This group of men has become a small group, growing closer in friendship and encouraging one another on their faith journeys.
camp ghormley
Wow, what a year 2024 was. God’s faithfulness was evident in so many ways this past year, both big and small. I first want to acknowledge His provision for the staff that we need to help camp function! We had been waiting well over a year for our Program Director, Elliot Daly, to arrive, as well as searching for a new Maintenance Director. God answered our prayers in big ways this spring as Elliot arrived in April, and just a month later, Kaeden Schmidt (who grew up attending Ghormley), joined our staff as Maintenance Director. Both individuals (and their spouses) are wonderful, mature, Godly young people who care about people and building God’s Kingdom through the ministry of Camp Ghormley. Additionally, we were grateful that for the first time in many years we had a completely full summer staff team. This makes camp function at its best and helps create great experiences for campers!
Our youth and family programs continued to have solid attendance. One testimony that highlighted our year came from Liz Coon, who attended our Mother Daughter Weekend with her daughters. Liz said: “Coming into the weekend, I desperately needed a new level of trust and growth. The weekend took care of that very thing. We were able to look at one another in the eye. Get things off our chest from the stresses of our circumstances and left much lighter. The real mothers and daughters that poured into us through scripture and truths, the new group of friends that would forever pray for one another, and the relief of knowing help was near, even though it seemed farther away only days before, put smiles on all of our faces as we finished up the retreat! My daughter, who’s 8, said the new people she met was her favorite.”
We are also rejoicing in the growth of our outdoor school programs with school groups. This growth has brought an influx of new groups scheduled for 2025, and new opportunities to serve the community using the resources God has given us! The income growth will also help us continue to invest in facility upkeep and building our staff team! Praise God!
Last, but certainly not least, the Retreat Fire. It is the ultimate reminder to never take anything for granted. It was a scary and stressful time for all of us, but God’s provision through it all in protecting the camp property, and then the financial provisions in the months that followed, has been nothing short of incredible. Somewhat unbelievably, thanks to incredible community support, we are in a much better long-term financial position post-fire than we were before it happened. It will forever serve as a testament to God’s goodness, and a reminder to trust Him through everything!
We’re entering 2025 with excitement and gratefulness after a great 2024 year!
~ Gratefully submitted, Joel Whitehead - Executive Director of Camp Ghormley
Our youth and family programs continued to have solid attendance. One testimony that highlighted our year came from Liz Coon, who attended our Mother Daughter Weekend with her daughters. Liz said: “Coming into the weekend, I desperately needed a new level of trust and growth. The weekend took care of that very thing. We were able to look at one another in the eye. Get things off our chest from the stresses of our circumstances and left much lighter. The real mothers and daughters that poured into us through scripture and truths, the new group of friends that would forever pray for one another, and the relief of knowing help was near, even though it seemed farther away only days before, put smiles on all of our faces as we finished up the retreat! My daughter, who’s 8, said the new people she met was her favorite.”
We are also rejoicing in the growth of our outdoor school programs with school groups. This growth has brought an influx of new groups scheduled for 2025, and new opportunities to serve the community using the resources God has given us! The income growth will also help us continue to invest in facility upkeep and building our staff team! Praise God!
Last, but certainly not least, the Retreat Fire. It is the ultimate reminder to never take anything for granted. It was a scary and stressful time for all of us, but God’s provision through it all in protecting the camp property, and then the financial provisions in the months that followed, has been nothing short of incredible. Somewhat unbelievably, thanks to incredible community support, we are in a much better long-term financial position post-fire than we were before it happened. It will forever serve as a testament to God’s goodness, and a reminder to trust Him through everything!
We’re entering 2025 with excitement and gratefulness after a great 2024 year!
~ Gratefully submitted, Joel Whitehead - Executive Director of Camp Ghormley
