Feeling The Love?
 This week, I (Fred) was talking with a friend about the human condition- especially our flaws and struggles. As we concluded, I muttered, "It's a good thing He (God) loves us." And as we discussed last Sunday, Jesus really does love us- no matter where we've been, what we've done, or how far we currently seem from God. He seems to specialize in throwing His arms around those previously considered unacceptable. Have you spent any time this week thinking about your willingness to let Jesus love you? Or wondering how you can better mirror His love to those around you? If you weren't a part of the conversation last Sunday, consider catching up with our PODCAST and TEACHING BLOG. This weekend we'll explore what Jesus uniquely brings to the table as a teacher. And without giving too much away, let's just say that it's A LOT. Hope you'll join us.
Excited to Give??
 Not long ago, someone from CNX was describing an experience with another church community that blew them away. When the time for the offering came, one of the leaders took the mic and said that their church applauds every time they have a chance to give back to God. And then the craziest thing happened- most of the people actually stood up and cheered! Now chances are you're reading this thinking that sounds like either a genius idea, or a completely weird one. Or possibly even both. I don't know that we're planning on incorporating mandatory cheering into our weekly offerings at CNX, but it seems like that other church community has tapped into a key idea: We should be excited about the opportunity to give to God.
This Sunday will be our final weekend to collect Giving Pledge cards from those who call CNX home. And while we could spend time talking about how vital the pledges are in helping us craft our budget, ministry and staffing plans- I hope that each of us will respond out of something more powerful than obligation- GRATITUDE. Giving to God isn't a "have to", but a "get to". When we give, we get to tell God that He is more important than our stuff. We get to tell each other that we are excited about the community we are building together. We get to play a part in the life change that God is working in and through our church. We get to say thank you.
And in God's wisdom, these kinds of exciting opportunities aren't just available to a select few who can write the biggest checks. Instead, each of us can give generously, gratefully and cheer-fully from what God has provided for us today. So get excited Connections. We're collecting Giving Pledges this Sunday. Come ready to cheer. :)
Missions News
 And speaking of things that get our adrenaline pumping- this weekend we'll be announcing our latest effort to bless our neighbors in need. Without issuing a "spoiler alert", we can say get ready to "put some feet" on your desire to love and serve the poor. That's all you get for now. More on Sunday
Women Of CNX Dinner (Wed 3/10, 6:30pm)
 It's Ladies Noodle Night at Noodles & Company at Crossroads (behind Pier One) in Cary! Come join us at 6:30 on Wednesday March 10 for noodles and fun. We deserve it, ladies! Please RSVP to Nicole Johnson at thejohnsons@nc.rr.com or 919.539.7610. You can browse the menu HERE.
Want To Pray?
 We talk regularly about being a community and supporting each other, but how do we do that? One way we live into this value is to lift each other up to God. We hear of prayer needs in the CNX community regularly and are looking to expand our prayer team. If you enjoy praying for others consistently and are interested, contact Fred Turner (fredt.connections@gmail.com).
CNX Paper Crafting Night (3/13, 3-11pm)
 Calling all scrapbookers, croppers and card makers- our first crop event is planned. We'll be meeting at the Connections space on Saturday, March 13th from 3-11pm. Whether you are new to these hobbies or have been working at them for years- come hang out and have a great time. And bring a friend with you! If you plan on attending, sign up at the info center on Sunday or email Yvonne Burgess (yburgess@nc.rr.com) or Barbara Christoff (bbecilla@citynet.net). If we have enough folks interested, we may offer pizza for dinner for a small fee.
Fix It Up Or Clean It Up (Or Both)
 Maintenance: Like to tinker? Enjoy fixing things? We're putting together a team of folks to help us maintain the space God has blessed us with by tackling repairs and maintenance issues. If you have experience with/skills in construction, painting, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, drywall, etc. and would be willing to help, contact Don Carr, ConnectionsMaint@hotmail.com.
Cleaning: Our space is getting more and more use and keeping it clean continues to be a challenge. We have a great team of folks who faithfully serve our community by volunteering to clean regularly, but are in need of more help. There are two ways we can pitch in: 1. We are asking each family to consider taking a turn cleaning our building once every 6 months. What's involved? On a normal week it takes two adults approximately 3 hours to vacuum, sweep, clean the bathrooms, mop, get the trash out, etc. If you are willing to help, stop by the info counter on Sunday. You can take a peek at the Cleaning Check List and pick your week on the Cleaning Calendar. 2. We would like to leave our building on Sunday ready for the other groups using it during the week. So each Sunday after worship we asking everyone to help us pick up coffee cups, clutter and crumbs; straighten chairs, tidy up the bathrooms; sweep the entryway and finally take out the trash after most folks have left. No need to sign up or schedule a week- just pitch in before you leave on Sunday. Easy, right? Questions?? Want to let us know you'll be helping? Contact Judy at judybalm@gmail.com
FAST FORWARD
Don't keep all this to yourself. Feel free to forward this info to your friends.
Blessings,
Fred Turner
Lead Pastor
Connections Church
fredt.connections@gmail.com
www.raleighchurch.org
www.sermonguts.com
www.thevoiceoffriends.com
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