Another beautiful picture (above) from yet another Baptism this past Sunday!  And yes, you guessed it; there’s another Baptism this Sunday!  I don’t know if you’ve noticed it or not, but Baptisms are a regular thing here at Coastal.  In a lot of churches today, there hasn’t been a Baptism in so long they don’t even fill or clean the Baptistry.  It just sits empty and dusty – which might be a pretty good description of some of those churches.  Not at Coastal.  In 2025 there have been more Sunday’s with a Baptism than not.  It’s just normal at Coastal.  And I love it!  It’s a sign of growth and life change at a church.  So what about you?  Is that your next step?  What are you waiting on?  Jesus did it.  He commanded it. And that settles it – at least it should.  At Coastal we practice believer’s Baptism by immersion.  In other words, we don’t Baptize people unless they believe.  That’s the only requirement for Baptism, that you have personally placed your faith and trust in Christ as your Lord and Savior.  An infant can’t do that.  We also Baptize by immersion.  Why?  Simple – it perfectly illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, Jesus was Baptized that way, and every Baptism in the New Testament was by immersion.  So again, what about you?  We’re ready any Sunday, any service.  And at Coastal it’s a huge celebration!  You can sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday or right now on our website and one of our Pastors will follow up with you.

Guess what?  As of today, we have 74 people (WOW) signed up for our “Making An IMPACT” Evangelism Seminar! It’s THIS Sunday, March 16th, 5pm-8pm, in the Coastal Chapel – childcare and dinner provided.  This seminar is all about equipping you and encouraging you to share your story, share your faith, and making a simple invitation to a church like Coastal where people will hear the good news of the gospel!  And as always, it’s a lot of fun!  Sign up online today!  
 

And finally I’ve got some more GREAT news to share!!  Immigration approved Dustin and Rachel Speer’s adoption of the kids from the New Life Children’s Home in Peru!!!  WOOHOO!  Dustin is one of our Elders and Rachel serves on Staff as our Director of Operations.  I’m so excited for them.  If you’ve been involved in our church for any length of time, you probably know how this has been a painfully difficult process and an ongoing prayer request for 2 YEARS.  There are still some bureaucratic procedures, and they would appreciate your prayers for the final step with the US Embassy in Lima, BUT, they are finally on the home stretch!  If you see Dustin and Rachel, that definitely deserves a hug!  Let’s celebrate together with the Speer family!  And guess how that all started – a Coastal Mission Trip to Peru!

I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love sharing and experiencing the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with YOU, with Charleston, and the world!  Can’t wait to see you over the weekend!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday March 14th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, March 18th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, March 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!   Thursday, March 20th & March 27th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, March 20th, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, March 21st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, March 26th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, March 28, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast has begun!  I hope and pray that it’s going well and that it’s already been impactful for you and your spiritual growth.  Don’t give up!  Remember you are not alone!  Not only are hundreds of people from Coastal fasting with you, but so are Christians all around the world!  I also want to humbly ask you to pray for me, your Pastor, during your fast.  Pray for our church.  Pray for all the people who will be invited to attend Coastal for Easter weekend.  Feel free to email me and share your journey and what the Lord is doing in your life through the fast.  I would love to hear it! -PC
   
3. The countdown to Easter has begun!  We are now 37 days away from Easter Sunday, April 20th!  Coastal will be having 7 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Contact your LIFE Team Ministry Leader to sign up to serve in multiple services or go to our website and sign up now to join a LIFE Team and start serving!
   
4. Coastal’s Young Adults (20’s & early 30’s) are having a Pickleball Night on Friday night March 21st, 6-9pm, in the Coastal Auditorium.  Scan the QR code above or go to this link to sign up!  Dinner provided!  If you have any questions, reach out to Morgan Rainey. 
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today or on your Connect Card on Sunday! 

P.S. Membership Class:  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Sunday, April 13th, from 5-8pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

Take a good look at the picture above and just let it sink in.  If that’s not a beautiful, God glorifying picture of life change, then I don’t know what is!  It’s Pastor Jacob after he has just baptized ANOTHER one of his Students from CSM (Coastal Student Ministry).  Jacob and his entire Team are doing an amazing job!  If your Student (6th-12th Grade) is not involved in CSM, why not?!  Jacob and many of our Students will be out of town this weekend for a Disciple Now event in the upstate, but next Sunday night, 5:30pm-7pm, do your part and get your Students to Coastal! 

And speaking of Baptism, we have yet another Baptism this Sunday during the 3rd service.  This Baptism is for a slightly younger Student, a 5th Grade girl who has given her life to Jesus.  This young girl has been loved, served, and discipled here at Coastal through things like VBS and Coastal Kidz.  Just another example of the emphasis we place on reaching the next generation for Jesus.  And yes, if you’re a parent of a young child, how could you ever let anything get in the way of making sure your child is regularly, consistently involved in Coastal Kidz.  I can’t say enough good things about Aly, her co-ordinators, and all our Volunteers!  They are some of the Super Heroes of Coastal!  And if you are interested in joining their life changing Team, reach out to Aly, or sign up on our online Connect Card (select the drop down menu, “Sign Up To Serve On A LIFE Team” and select Coastal Kidz) and Aly will follow up with you.  

One last thing, I want to personally invite you to sign up for our “Making An IMPACT” Evangelism Seminar on Sunday, March 16th, 5pm-8pm, in the Coastal Chapel – childcare and dinner provided.  I’ll be honest with you, I hate including the word “Evangelism” in any kind of announcement about a training or seminar, not because I don’t believe in evangelism, but because of all the images and fear it sparks in people’s minds.  So let me be clear, this is NOT about knocking on doors and asking people you don’t know, if they died tonight would they go to heaven or hell.  This is not about standing on a street corner and preaching.
 
It’s about learning to share your own personal story and sharing your faith (how you became a Christian) with the people God puts in your life, where you live, work, parent, and play.  It’s about learning the power of a simple invitation to a church that promises to partner with you and share the Good News of the Gospel.  We simply believe that every Christian should have the confindence to do these things.  And over time, if you’ve earned the right, built a relationship, prayed for the open door, all of us will have an opportunity to do just that.  We just want you to feel empowered and confident to do so when the time arrives.  That’s what this Seminar is all about.
  
And if you’ve taken it before, there’s nothing wrong with a little refresher.  Plus, at Coastal, you know we’re going to have fun and feed you well while doing it!  I hope you’ll sign up!  This is a great way to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter!  You can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or go to this link and sign up today.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love being a witness and a participant of what God is doing in our midst!  Can’t wait to see you over the weekend!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, March 7th; Monday, March 10th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, March 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, March 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, March 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, March 11th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!   Thursday, March 13th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday March 14th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins THIS Monday, March 10th, and goes through Friday, April 18th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday, or sign up now on our online Connect Card (it’s on the drop down menu on “My Next Steps”).
   
3. Easter – mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 7 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
4. Coastal’s Young Adults (20’s & early 30’s) are having a Pickleball Night on Friday night March 21st, 6-9pm, in the Coastal Auditorium.  Scan the QR code above or go to this link to sign up!  Dinner provided!  If you have any questions, reach out to Morgan Rainey. 
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today or on your Connect Card on Sunday! 

P.S. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants a glimpse into life in ministry.  Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries.  We will accept mature, older High School Students, but we are mainly looking for College Students and/or young adults.  If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more and apply by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.  Also, if you know anyone who might be interested, please feel free to share!

Our Spring semester of LIFE Groups started this week!  I’ve heard nothing but GREAT things!  We have awesome leaders, and I can’t wait to hear the stories of community, connection, and LIFE change!  Many of our Groups are full, but for those that aren’t, it’s still not too late to join.  Go to our websiteand sign up today! If you have any questions about Groups, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.

This Sunday at Coastal we wrap up our series on The Sermon on the Mount.  I’ll be in Matthew 7:24-27, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Storms really are a part of life, whether we give them names like Hugo, Andrew, Katrina, Floyd, or Helene, OR names like depression, sickness, bankruptcy, cancer, divorce, and death.  I’ve said it many times over the years, “You’re either coming out of a storm, heading into a storm, or you’re smack dab in the middle of one right now.”  God never promises us a storm free life, not even to the faithful.  But He does promise to walk with us through the storm.  He promises to never leave us or forsake us.  And if we let Him, He even has the miraculous ability to use our greatest storm, our deepest pain, for our good and His glory.  There is help.  There is healing.  And there is hope.  His name is Jesus.  And that’s not just a trite saying, a t-shirt, or a bumper sticker.  If you will draw near to Him, He will draw near to you.

But there is another storm we must all face – death and standing before God at the judgement.  That’s the impending storm that Jesus is warning His followers about in the closing section of the Sermon on the Mount.  In fact, here in vss. 24-27, He uses the illustration of two home builders – one who builds his home on the rock and one who builds his home on the sand.  Being from Charleston, we don’t have to guess which home stands strong when the storm hits.  The real question Jesus wants his followers to wrestle with and answer is, “Who or what are you building your life on?”

Speaking of death and eternity, one of our own, Teresa Anderson, recently passed away.  There will be a visitation for friends and family, this Sunday, March 2nd, 4-6pm, at Stuhr’s Funeral Home on the Glenn McConnell.  Her funeral service will be this Monday, March 3rd, 11am, at our church, in the Auditorium.  There will be a graveside immediately following the service at Live Oak Memorial on Hwy. 61.  While her death was unexpected to those who knew and loved her, it was not unexpected to God.  And while we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and the decision she made to build her life on the rock solid foundation of a personal relationship with Jesus!  And because of that, Teresa simply “passed over” from death to LIFE, and we will see her again!  In John 5:24 Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”  That’s what happened to Teresa, and that’s worth celebrating!  What about you?  The storm is coming, coming for all of us, in this life and in the next.  Who or what have you built your life on?  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what God has called us to do together – sharing the life and love of Jesus with Charleston and the world! 

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, February 28th;  Friday March 14th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, February 28th;  Friday, March 7th; Monday, March 10th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, February 28th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, March 1st.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, March 6th;  Thursday, March 13th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, March 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, March 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, March 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, March 11th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins Monday, March 10th, and goes through Friday, April 18th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
    
   And speaking of Easter – mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 7 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
3. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar, Sunday, March 16th, 5pm-8pm, in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  Sign up online or RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare! Dinner provided.
   
4. Coastal’s Young Adults (20’s & early 30’s) are having a Pickleball Night on Friday night March 21st, 6-9pm, in the Coastal Auditorium.  Scan the QR code above or go to this link to sign up!  Dinner provided!  If you have any questions, reach out to Morgan Rainey. 
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today or on your Connect Card on Sunday! 

P.S. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants a glimpse into life in ministry.  Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries.  We will accept mature, older High School Students, but we are mainly looking for College Students and/or young adults.  If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more and apply by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.  Also, if you know anyone who might be interested, please feel free to share!

It was another amazing Sunday at Coastal this past week!  It was LIFE Group Sunday!   We had 1305 people in-person, 974 online, and 1 more Baptism!  I want to thank those of you who have been parking over at Oakland Elementary School (1st drive to the right after the Greenway BEFORE you get to our church) and those of you who shifted from the 10am service to either the 8:30am or the 11:30am service – please keep it up!  It all enables our church to keep growing!  And most importantly, I can’t thank all of our LIFE Group Leaders enough for all of their hard work and creativity!  You guys “knocked it out of the park”!  The excitement, fun, and enthusiasm in the room was palpable!  Plus, are you ready for this? So far we’ve had over 1066 total signups for LIFE Groups!  That’s AWESOME!  

While some of our LIFE Groups are already full, many are not.  So go to our website, check out the catalog, and sign up for a LIFE Group today!  Once you sign up for a LIFE Group, your Group Leader will contact you with all the important information.  Most LIFE Groups begin THIS coming week.  If you have any questions about Groups, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.

The big push between now and Easter Weekend will be Volunteers!  So, reach out to your LIFE Team Leader and start signing up to serve on Planning Center now.  Easter Sunday is April 20th!  Coastal will be having 7 identical Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!  Our goal this year is to have over 3000 people in person over Easter Weekend (last year we had 2541)!  Start praying now for the people you will be inviting and for the people the church will be reaching out to through all of our advertising.  We’ve got two more messages in our series on the Sermon on the Mount – this Sunday and next Sunday.  This week I’ll be talking about some of the most terrifying words ever spoken by Jesus.  It’s found in Matthew 7:21-23.  Take a look at it before this Sunday.  I love you Coastal!  I’ve love getting to serve alongside you as your Pastor!  And I love what God has called us to do together – sharing the life and love of Jesus with Charleston and the world! 

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, February 21st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, February 26th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 27th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, February 28th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, February 28th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, February 28th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, March 1st.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins Monday, March 10th, and goes through Friday, April 18th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
    
   And speaking of Easter – mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 7 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
3. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar, Sunday, March 16th, 5pm-8pm, in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  Sign up online or RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare! Dinner provided.
   
4. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today or on your Connect Card on Sunday! 

P.S. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants a glimpse into life in ministry.  Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries.  We will accept mature, older High School Students, but we are mainly looking for College Students and/or young adults.  If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more and apply by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.  Also, if you know anyone who might be interested, please feel free to share!

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! I LOVE VALENTINE’S DAY!  Why you ask?  Because today is Janet’s and my Wedding Anniversary – 38 years in fact!  Our very first date was actually on Valentine’s Day as well.  I was a freshman and Janet was a senior at a small Bible College in Atlanta (Atlanta Christian College – now Point University).  On that first Valentine’s Day date I told Janet that I loved her.  She replied, “I love you too.”  But honestly, her response was more like, “Aww, I love Jesus and puppies and ice cream, and being at Bible College where we love everyone like a brother and sister in Christ, sure, I love you too, Chris Rollins.”  But I knew this was different and I figured she would too, soon enough.  She did.  We were engaged in May and got married the following Valentine’s Day!  Janet is the first and only woman I’ve ever dated or kissed.  So yes, I am a romantic and yes, I love Valentine’s Day.

However, over the years as I’ve told people to “Have a Happy Valentine’s Day” I’ve actually had people snap back, “You mean, ‘Happy Single Awareness Day’, don’t you?!”  Or today is the day I usually hear all about the Hallmark/Flower Industry conspiracy.  One married woman once told me, “I told my husband, ‘You better not get me flowers or chocolate on Valentine’s Day!  I don’t want that stuff unless you do it all year long.'”

Okay, okay I get it.  Not everyone feels the same way about Valentine’s Day that I do.  But hear me out. Romance has very little to do with expensive candlelight dinners, flowers, or chocolates – although for some people it might.  Romance is simply choosing to love someone exactly the way they need to be loved, expecting nothing in return, regardless of how you feel and regardless of how they respond.  It’s the little things, done consistently, over time.  It’s willingly sacrificing your needs for someone else – putting their needs ahead of your own.  And when you find someone who will do that with you – trust me, there’s nothing better!

But here’s what I want you to think about today.  If that’s the real definition of romance – then in many ways, our God is the “Great Romantic.”  He knows exactly the way each of us needs to be loved and He willingly chooses to love us that way, regardless of how we respond, expecting nothing in return.  He does the little things (and big things), consistently, over time – things that we usually take for granted.  Thank God today for His great love for you and ask Him to help you to be a better lover!

And speaking of love, this Sunday is LIFE Group Sunday and I LOVE IT!  It’s one of my favorite Sunday’s of the year!  Before and after all 3 services you’ll be able to visit a table/booth representing each one of our 60+ different LIFE Groups (kind of like a Job/College Fair, but for Groups)!  There will be snacks. You’ll be able to meet other people checking out all the Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, ask any questions you might have, and most importantly, SIGN UP FOR A LIFE GROUP!  I promise it will be a great day and a lot of fun (there will even be FREE KONA ICE outside for everyone)!  But you don’t have to wait until Sunday to sign up for a LIFE Group.  You can go online sign up for a LIFE Group today!  I LOVE you Coastal!  I LOVE that I get to be your Pastor and lead and serve alongside of so many awesome people!  And I LOVE what God has called us to do together!  LOVE is definitely in the air! 

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, February 14th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Hollywood Free Laundry Day: TOMORROW, Saturday, February 15th, 8am-11am join us out at “We Fold It” Laundromat as we provide FREE laundry service for the residents of Hollywood!
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, February 18th, 12noon-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, February 19th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 20th & 27th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, February 20th, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, February 21st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, February 26th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins Monday, March 10th, and goes through Friday, April 18th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
    
   And speaking of Easter – mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 7 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, April 18th, 7pm;  Saturday, April 19th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, April 20th, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am, 1pm.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
3. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar, Sunday, March 16th, 5pm-8pm, in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  Sign up online or RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare! Dinner provided.
   
4. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is TOMORROW, Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email or sign up on our website, (let us know if you need childcare).  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants a glimpse into life in ministry.  Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries.  We will accept mature, older High School Students, but we are mainly looking for College Students and/or young adults.  If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more and apply by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.  Also, if you know anyone who might be interested, please feel free to share!

So, have you signed up for a LIFE Group yet?  If you haven’t heard, we unveiled our 2025 Spring Semester LIFE Group Catalog!  And just like college, your favorite classes (LIFE Groups) will fill up fast!  Some, in fact, have already reached capacity.  So, go to our website right now, check out all the different Groups and sign up today.  Most of our Groups start the week of February 23rd.  

Now, I can already hear some of your excuses.  And here is the biggest one of all.  “But Pastor Chris, I just don’t have the time for a LIFE Group.  I’m too busy.”  Please hear this with all the love I can muster.  You have time to do whatever it is you value – tv, social media, sports, hobbies.  It’s just not that important to you yet.  So, as we move into the New Year, think about what matters most in this life (your spiritual life, community), let that determine your values and priorities, and in turn let those values and priorities set or reset the habits and routines of your life.  I promise, it’s a decision you won’t regret!
 
Next Sunday, February 16th, is LIFE GROUP SUNDAY!  Before and after each service you’ll be able to check out all the Groups offered this semester, browse the tables in the Welcome Center representing those Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, enjoy some great snacks, and ask any questions you might have!  It’s a BIG Day here at Coastal and a LOT of fun (there will even be FREE Kona Ice outside for everyone)!  Invite and bring a friend and don’t miss it!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do TOGETHER!  Hope to see you on Sunday!  Start signing up for a LIFE Group today!
 
Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, February 7th;  Monday, February 10th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, February 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, February 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, February 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, February 11th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 13th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, February 14th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Hollywood Free Laundry Day: Saturday, February 15th, 8am-11am join us out at “We Fold It” Laundromat as we provide FREE laundry service for the residents of Hollywood!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We’re excited that the 2nd Coastal Van is ready for the road!  We’d love to send the van to Joseph Floyd Manor and Brighton Place to pick up those residents who’d like to come to church. The van departs from Coastal on Sunday morning at 8:30am so the residents at each facility can attend the 2nd worship service. The van then takes the residents home after the service. Volunteer drivers can sign up for either the pickup trip, the return trip or both. If you have a reasonably good driving record and are interested in a ride-along with one of the team’s drivers, reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at chrisjones@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
3. Coastal Student Ministry is heading to Greenwood, SC, for a weekend conference designed to help students grow in their discipleship! It’s March 7-9 and the weekend’s theme, Blueprint, focuses on God’s design for our lives. Students will attend main sessions and choose two breakout sessions on specific topics.  Our Students will stay in a hotel with rooming based on age and gender. The weekend will be full of learning and fun! They will leave Friday afternoon, attend Coastal’s 10am online service Sunday, grab lunch, and aim to be back in Charleston by 4 PM.  The cost is $125, but financial assistance is available—money should never be a barrier! If you’d like to discuss payment options or a scholarship, feel free to email Jacob.  Sign up online today!
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, February 9th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. We’ve already had several Baptisms to start off the New Year!  Maybe Baptism is your next step.  Baptism is a way of “going public” with your faith.  It beautifully illustrates the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  Jesus set the example for us and He commands His followers to do likewise.  At Coastal, we are ready any Sunday and any service for your Baptism.  You can sign up on your Connect Card or sign up today online.

Woohoo!  I’ve got GREAT NEWS!  We just unveiled our 2024 Spring Semester LIFE Group Catalog!  You’ll receive a hard copy on Sunday AND it’s available online too!  You’ll probably even get one mailed to your home.  Don’t worry, if you get more than one, simply share it with a friend.  But we would love for you to go ahead and check out all of our different Groups (there’s something for everyone) and sign up to join a LIFE Group this semester (8-12 weeks)!  By the way, our LIFE Groups are for everyone – whether you’re a member of our church, an occasional attender, or even if you’ve never attended on a Sunday.   We’re called Coastal COMMUNITY Church and you (and your friends and family) are all a part of our community.  There are all types of Groups – activity, women’s, men’s, support, marriage, Bible study, Young Adults, Senior Adults, and more!
 
By the way, not only can you view the catalog online, but you can sign up for a Group online (probably the best way to sign up)!  Once you sign up for a group, your Group Leader will contact you before the semester begins.  Unless otherwise stated in the catalog, all Groups begin the week of February 23rd. 

I also want to invite you to attend LIFE GROUP SUNDAY, on Sunday, February 16th, at Coastal!  We have 3 services – 8:30am, 10am, & 11:30am.  Before and after all 3 services you’ll be able to visit a table/booth representing each one of our 60+ different LIFE Groups (kind of like a Job/College Fair, but for Groups)!  There will be snacks, you’ll be able to meet other people checking out all the Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, and ask any questions you might have.  I promise it will be a great day and a lot of fun (there will even be FREE KONA ICE outside for everyone)!  Hope to see you on Sunday!  Start signing up for a LIFE Group today!
 
LIFE is Better Together!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, January 31st;  Monday, February 3rd; Friday, February 7th;  Monday, February 10th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, January 31st, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, February 1st.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 6th;  Thursday, February 13th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, February 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, February 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, February 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, February 11th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We’re excited that the 2nd Coastal Van is ready for the road!  We’d love to send the van to Joseph Floyd Manor and Brighton Place to pick up those residents who’d like to come to church. The van departs from Coastal on Sunday morning at 8:30am so the residents at each facility can attend the 2nd worship service. The van then takes the residents home after the service. Volunteer drivers can sign up for either the pickup trip, the return trip or both. If you have a reasonably good driving record and are interested in a ride-along with one of the team’s drivers, reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at chrisjones@coastalcommunitychurch.org. 
   
3. This coming Saturday, February 1st – TOMORROW – is Saturday Serve! The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month, all year long.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, you choose which project you want to be a part of, and then we all go out and serve!  There is something for everyone – even children!  Each project is well led and well organized.  I promise you’ll be glad you came!  (Be a “double blessing” and come at 7:30am for chair set-up!)
   
4. This coming Saturday, February 1st – TOMORROW – is Saturday Serve! The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month, all year long.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, you choose which project you want to be a part of, and then we all go out and serve!  There is something for everyone – even children!  Each project is well led and well organized.  I promise you’ll be glad you came!  (Be a “double blessing” and come at 7:30am for chair set-up!)
   
5. Coastal Young Adults had an AMAZING kick-off to their new Weekly Streaming of “The Porch” this past Monday night!  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s YOU are invited!  It’s a great evening of worship, fellowship, teaching, small group discussion, and great fun!  They meet every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel!  For more information, please contact Morgan Rainey.

P.S. P.S.  What’s your Next Step at Coastal?  Here are two possible next steps:

– Newcomer’s Reception: If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 9th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today. 

– Membership Class:  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

Wow!  What a crazy weather week in Charleston it’s been!  I guess snow is going to be about a 7 year occurrence here – haha!  Typically Friday is my day off.  If I do take the day off and if there is an opening, sometimes I’ll sub over at Oakland Elementary School.  I only sub at Oakland, and again, only on Fridays if I’m available.  Well, this past Friday I took a sub job in a Kindergarten classroom for the Teacher’s Assistant.  Honestly, this is one of my favorite spots.  The kids are SO SWEET at this age, so much fun, and still pretty innocent.  Also, as the TA, I’m really just an extra set of hands for the Teacher.  Well, this past Friday as the Teacher was preparing her students for the possibility of snow this week and E-Learning, she asked the class (a little over 20) how many of them had ever seen snow?  Only a small handful of them had ever seen it.  Honestly, I had kind of forgotten about that.  My kids are grown and gone and married.  Watching and listening to these kids and their child like anticipation, hope, and excitement got me excited again FOR THEM!  I found myself getting excited, hoping, and yes, even praying for snow, at least for just a day (be careful what you pray for – haha) so that they could see it, experience it, and do all the things with their friends and family.

And you know what, it got me to thinking about all the things in my own life, in my own Christian experience, that I might be taking for granted, that I might have lost some of that child like joy and excitement over.  I’ve said it many times – you never out grow the Gospel – but maybe I needed to be reminded of that.  And maybe we all need to experience again with fresh eyes when someone comes to Coastal and experiences heart felt worship for the first time, or when they learn about prayer, or join a LIFE Group, or get Baptized, or invite a friend, or share their faith, or all the myriad of things we might be taking for granted.  Matthew 18:1-4, “About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them.  Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.  So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.”  

I truly hope you and your family have enjoyed the snow this week.  Maybe you needed the reset.  This Sunday, I’ll be in Matthew 7:7-12, talking about prayer.  Come on Sunday and listen again with fresh, child like excitement!   I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday! 

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 30th; Thursday, February 6th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, January 31st;  Monday, February 3rd; Friday, February 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, January 24th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, January 31st, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, February 1st.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, February 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, February 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, February 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. As we begin 2025, we are having a Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers.  We’ve already had one Training and this next one is:  TOMORROW, Saturday, January 25th, 9AM (childcare provided). CLICK HERE to register for the Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training. You can also text the word “training” to 843-571-1777.  Childcare is available by REGISTERING HERE or texting “trainingchildcare” to 843-571-1777.
   
3. You should be receiving your 2024 Year End Giving Statement from our church this week – mail or email.  Please check your records for your Statement’s accuracy and contact us if there are any problems.  Make sure your information is current and correct in our database.  Text the keyword MEto 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information, manage your giving, access your giving statement, and more!  If you receive an error, that means we do not have your cell phone number in our church system, so go online and fill out your Connect Card with your information.  If you have any questions about your statement, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy Love, at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  It is your consistent, faithful, generous giving enables our church to make its IMPACT.
   
4. Two of our Support Groups – Divorce Care & GriefShare – begin meeting again in February.   Divorce Care starts on February 6th. Contact Tracy Trunkle (tandttrunkle@aol.com) for more information. GriefShare starts on February 10th. Contact Sue Muoio (s.muoio@outlook.com) for more information.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning this coming Monday night, January 27th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. What’s your Next Step at Coastal?  Here are two possible next steps:

– Newcomer’s Reception: If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 9th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today. 

– Membership Class:  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

Well, I’ve got some EXCITING NEWS to share with you!  Our Christmas Offering Goal for this year was $150,000.  Drumroll please . . . .we reached and SURPASSED our Christmas Offering Goal with a grand total of $203,332.68!!  Wow!  Just WOW!  We will definitely be increasing our goal for next year – haha!  Your generosity never ceases to amaze me Coastal!  It is your consistent (not just at Christmas or special occasions), generous (above and beyond) giving that enables our church to do all that it does here, in the community, and around the world! 

This past Sunday at Coastal we had 1232 people in attendance!  Coastal that is the first time we’ve broken 1200 in attendance on a non “Big Day” (Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day, etc.).  And not only that, but the “spread” of people between the 3 services was great!  The 10am service didn’t feel uncomfortably full.  And it appears as if the people in the 10am service did a better job of sitting toward the front and center of each section, not leaving space between people.  Now it helps when we have a large Coastal Kidz training immediately after the 3rd service, but either way, it showed me that it’s possible to keep growing with our current 3 services.  In fact, I think we can grow to around 1500 with our current configuration.  Next steps will be another service and yes, another building.  Keep up the good work Coastal!  Make Sunday morning worship a priority, but more than that invite people to join you.  You never know the power of a simple invitation.

This Sunday, and for the next 6 weeks, we’re back in our series called, “Blessed” on The Sermon on the Mount.  Hopefully, you recall that we wrapped up chapter 6 right before Christmas.  So, for the next 6 weeks we’ll finish up with chapter 7.  This Sunday, I’ll be in Matthew 7:1-6 and be talking about probable the most quoted verse in the entire Bible – no, not John 3:16.  Can you guess what it is?  Come on Sunday and find out!   I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday! 

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, January 17th;  Friday, January 24th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, January 21st, 12noon-3pm.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, January 22nd, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 23rd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, January 24th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, January 24th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. As we begin 2025, we are having a Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers.  We’ve already had one Training and this next one is:  Saturday, January 25th, 9AM (childcare provided). CLICK HERE to register for the Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training. You can also text the word “training” to 843-571-1777.  Childcare is available by REGISTERING HERE or texting “trainingchildcare” to 843-571-1777.
   
3. Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person TOMORROW, Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am OR Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions.
   
4. Grieving the loss of a loved one or know someone who is?  GriefShare’s 13 week cycle begins on Monday, February 10th at either 2pm or 6pm.  Contact Sue Muoio for more information.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning Monday night, January 27th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. What’s your Next Step at Coastal?  Here are two possible next steps:

– Newcomer’s Reception: If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 9th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today. 

 
– Membership Class:  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

We had an amazing kickoff to the new year this past Sunday at Coastal!  We had 1172 people in attendance and another 905 online.  Most importantly we had our first baptism of the new year!  This past year we baptized 171 people!  Our goal for 2025 is 200 – 1 down 199 to go!  I preached a message on finances and it must have struck a chord because we had 17 people sign up for Financial Peace University through our website and we had 14 first time givers on Sunday!  

Speaking of our attendance – the 10am service was PACKED!  We even had to bring in extra chairs!  Truthfully, we had seats available in the room, we’ve just got to do a better job of filling in those seats and not leaving open seats between you and someone else.  If not, once the service starts and people are standing and singing, it’s hard to find empty seats.   In fact, we’re going to start training our Ushers to seat people as they come in the 10am service, filling in all available seats.  Please help us make this happen.  We never want to turn anyone away because we couldn’t find seats.  In fact, if you see that happening, especially with someone new, be willing to give up your seat.  As always, if you are able, please consider coming to the 8:30am or 11:30am service.  This definitely helps.  These are good problems to have.  Problems are simply opportunities to test our willingness to do whatever it takes to reach people.

This Sunday is my annual, “The Year In Review/Year Ahead” message – kind of a “State of the Church” address.  Don’t miss it!  Our natural tendency, is to dwell in the past, to live in the past, to get stuck in the past.  And all that does is keep us from experiencing all that God has in store for us today and where He is leading us tomorrow.  Isaiah 43:18-19, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing!  Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”  Sunday will be an opportunity to celebrate God’s faithfulness and what He did through Coastal this past year.  And it will be an opportunity to expand our vision for the new year.  I’m asking God to help us see something more, something that challenges us as a church.   I’m asking the Lord to give us a glimpse of what Coastal could do and become.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t with to see you on Sunday! 

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, January 10th;  Monday, January 13th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, January 10th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, January 11th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, January 11th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, January 14th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, January 15th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 16th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, January 16th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, January 17th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, January 21st, 12noon-3pm.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. As we begin 2025, we are having a Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers.  We are offering the training twice: THIS Sunday, January 12th, 12:45PM (lunch & childcare provided) OR Saturday, January 25th, 9AM (childcare provided). You only need to attend one.  CLICK HERE to register for the Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training. You can also text the word “training” to 843-571-1777.  Childcare is available by REGISTERING HERE or texting “trainingchildcare” to 843-571-1777.
   
3. Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am. OR Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions or are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. THIS Sunday, January 12th is the LAST DAY to give to our 2024 Annual Christmas Offering!  With the offering so far we’ve already purchased both the new box truck and a 15 passenger van (we’re just waiting to wrap both of them)!  We’ve also sent $10,000 to the New Life Children’s Home in Peru! And we’ve given Soldier’s Angels $20,000 to pay for half of the food distributions for the year!  There is still much left to be done, but none of this would be possible without your generosity!  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift any time until January 12th at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning Monday night, January 27th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. What’s your Next Step at Coastal?  Here are two possible next steps:

– Newcomer’s Reception: If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 9th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  You can sign up on our website today. 

 
– Membership Class:  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 15th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

At some point in all of our lives, we’ve all heard or said this widely accepted saying, “Experience is the best teacher.”  But guess what?  It’s a myth!  Experience is not the best teacher.  EVALUATED experience is the best teacher!  And one way to evaluate and learn from your experiences is to ask and answer the right questions.   Someone once said, “The quality of your life is determined by the quality of the questions you ask yourself.”  

Here’s a few to get you started:

1. Am I closer to God today than I was on Jan 1, 2024?
2. What is my spiritual growth plan for 2025?
3. What drained me emotionally in 2024? 
4. What fills me emotionally?
5. Is there anyone whose forgiveness I need to seek or forgiveness I need to give?
6. Where is the clutter in my life?
7. Would I rate my marriage a 10? Would my spouse (you might want to ask over a nice dinner)? If it’s not a 10 ask this question, “What would it take in 2025 to make it a 10?”
8. Have I scheduled my date nights for January?
9. How much do I weigh? Is that OK?
10. Do I have a Physical/Mammogram/Colonoscopy/etc. scheduled between now and March 31?
11. What’s my major physical focus area for 2025?
12. Are my finances in order?
13. Do I have debt beyond my mortgage?
14. What’s my next step in my giving?
15. How am I growing as a leader?
16. What are my reading goals for 2025?
17. What caused me the most stress in 2024?
18. How am I going to fix that in 2025?
19. What am I pretending NOT to know?
20. What is my calling?  

So, as you’re praying about goals and changes you want to make in 2025, can I encourage you to include making Coastal a priority?  Jesus called the church His Body, His Bride.  Jesus died for the church.  Jesus started the church.  The church is the Family of God and the only thing that will last on into eternity.  The church is the hope of the world, and when done right, there is nothing greater or more powerful than the local church.  However, there is no perfect church – because the church is made up of people, you and me, and there are no perfect people.  Church attendance/involvement is just like any other habit – it’s easy to make excuses and get out of the habit.  So, my advice, make a commitment and push through.  If it’s been a while, get back in the habit this year.  If you already attend regularly, maybe it’s time you started serving.  Maybe this is the semester that you join a LIFE Group.  How does your giving reflect your commitment to the church?  Is it consistent?  Generous?  Maybe you’re fairly new to Coastal, but have never been to a Newcomer’s Reception.  The next one is Sunday, February 9th, immediately following the 3rd service (sign up online).  Maybe this is the year you officially become a Member of Coastal.  Our next Membership Class is Saturday morning, February 15th, 9am-12noon (sign up now online).  And how about this – invite and bring someone with you to church!  You never know the power of a simple invitation.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together! 

Happy New Year!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, January 3rd;  Monday, January 6th;  Friday, January 10th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, January 3rd, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is THIS Saturday, January 4th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 9th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, January 10th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, January 11th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, January 11th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. As we begin 2025, we are having a Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers.  We are offering the training twice: Sunday, January 12th, 12:45PM (lunch & childcare provided) or Saturday, January 25th, 9AM (childcare provided). You only need to attend one.  CLICK HERE to register for the Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training. You can also text the word “training” to 843-571-1777.  Childcare is available by REGISTERING HERE or texting “trainingchildcare” to 843-571-1777.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  
   
   Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am or Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions or are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. Well, there is only a little over a week left to give to this year’s Christmas Offering.  Next Sunday, January 12th is the last day.  With the offering so far we’ve already purchased both the new box truck and a 15 passenger van (we’re just waiting to wrap both of them)!  We’ve also sent $10,000 to the New Life Children’s Home in Peru!  There is still much left to be done, but none of this would be possible without your generosity!  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift any time until January 12th at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning Monday night, January 27th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. CSM (Coastal Student Ministry – 6th-12th Grade) starts back THIS Sunday!  Doors open at 5pm and the official times are from 5:30-7PM. This is going to be a fun night as we will have an open gym!  What better way to kick off this year than to have no agenda other than eat pizza, play, and to catch up with each other! We’d love to see your student there and this would be a great event for them to invite a friend to as well!  As always, if you have any questions about CSM, please reach out to Pastor Jacob Bonetti.

Happy New Year – well almost!  2025 is just around the corner!  But guess what?  No matter what 2025 brings, Jesus is still on the throne, God is still in control, and our mission is still the same: “to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!”

I sincerely hope you and your family have had a wonderful Christmas!  And let me say how awesome our Christmas Eve services were at Coastal!  We had our largest Christmas Eve services ever – 1972 people in person (another 940 online)!  I want to thank all of our volunteers who served so joyfully!  We could not do what we do without you!  I especially want to thank all of our Worship & Production Team who came very early and were here for all 4 services over 2 days!  There is just something special about lighting candles and worshipping together.  (If you’re available, we’ll be taking down all of our Christmas decorations this coming Thursday, January 2nd, at 9am.  We could definitely use your help!)

Don’t forget that we only have 2 in-person services this Sunday – 8:30am & 10am (no 11:30am services).  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  Hold on to your fork Coastal – the best is yet to come!

Happy New Year!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown! TODAY, Friday, December 27th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 2nd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, January 3rd;  Monday, January 6th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, January 3rd, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, January 4th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. As we begin 2025, we are having a Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers.  We are offering the training twice: Sunday, January 12th, 12:45PM (lunch & childcare provided) or Saturday, January 25th, 9AM (childcare provided). You only need to attend one.  CLICK HERE to register for the Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training. You can also text the word “training” to 843-571-1777.  Childcare is available by REGISTERING HERE or texting “trainingchildcare” to 843-571-1777.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  
   
   Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am or Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions or are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. As you know, Coastal does an enormous amount of Outreach throughout our community.  Much of it is funded every year through our annual Christmas Offering.  This year’s goal is $150,000.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Disaster Relief & Outreach, another 15 Passenger Van, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, CSM Summer Camp Scholarships, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  What we’ve discovered is that we reach our goal when EVERYONE participates.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can all make a sacrifice.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift any time until January 12th at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning Monday night, January 27th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. DON’T FORGET – we offer our Coastal Members and regular attendees free access to RightNow Media, an online church video library.  It’s just one of the many ways to express our generosity to our church family.  Essentially, RightNow Media is a Netflix for Bible studies with videos for kids, students, singles, parents and married couples by teachers like Dave Ramsey, John Piper, Max Lucado, Tim Tebow, and more.  All the content can be accessed from any computer or smart television and through the RightNow Media app on a phone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, etc.  If you haven’t already  done so, click here to set up your account!

So, are you ready for Christmas?  Well, ready or not, it’s ALMOST here!  Which means of course, that our Christmas Eve Services are almost here!  This year we’re having 4 Christmas Eve services over 2 days – Monday, December 23rd,  6pm (a great service for those of you who might be going out of town or have obligations on the 24th);  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm!  I hope you are ready to invite & bring your friends!  Remember, it’s not too late to invite someone.  Make the ask!  What’s the worst thing that could happen?  Better yet – what’s the BEST thing that could happen?  Think through all your contacts – social media, work, neighbors, friends, family – and invite them to come!  

By the way, we ARE having our normal service times THIS Sunday morning, December 22nd:  8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am.  However, on Sunday, December 29th, we will only have 2 Sunday morning services: 8:30am & 10am.
 
Christmas Eve services are one of those times where it is “all hands on deck.”  In other words, if you serve in ministry and you’re not out of town, WE NEED YOU TO SERVE.  Contact your Ministry Leader and let them know which services you are available ASAP!  Every ministry needs plenty of volunteers (and extra volunteers) to pull off Christmas Eve and create a welcoming atmosphere.
 
Pray for me & my message.  Pray that people give their lives to Jesus and get saved!  Pray for our Worship Team that they would lead people to worship Jesus.  Pray for all our Ministry Volunteers, that they would serve Jesus by serving others.
 
Here are a few other important reminders:

– Be helpful, friendly and welcoming to all our guests!
– Introduce yourself & talk to people you don’t know.
– This is important – park over at Oakland to make more room for guests.  The further away you park, the better.
– Fill out your Connect Card.  This encourages others to do the same. 
– Sit to the front & center of each section of the auditorium.
– Coastal Kidz (Birth-5th Grade) will be fully operational during all 4 services.
– If you are serving during a service, PLEASE COME EARLY. 
 
Don’t forget that our entire offering for Christmas Eve (all 4 services) will go toward our Christmas Offering!  Prayerfully consider what you and your family can give.  You might also consider making a year-end sacrificial gift. 

Well, I think that’s about it.   For those of you who are traveling or out of town – HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!  Safe travels and please keep us in your prayers!  And remember, if you can’t make it in person, you will be able to watch all of our services live online.  Can’t wait to see everyone else and all your friends and family over the weekend!  Again, please note that we will have our normal service times this Sunday morning, December 22nd:  8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am.  The following Sunday, December 29th, we will only have 2 Sunday morning services: 8:30am & 10am.  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!
 
Merry Christmas!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, December 20th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Packing & Staging Party for Double Christmas Party:  Come help plus prep and prepare everything for our Double Christmas Party!  TODAY, Friday, December 20th, 6pm-7pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Christmas Party at Charleston Vets & Brighton Place:  Come help spread Christmas joy for those in need in our community – food, gifts, stockings, and music!  TOMORROW, Saturday, December 21st, 10:30am-2pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, December 27th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 2nd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, January 3rd;  Monday, January 6th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  Pick up “You’re Invited” cards and start inviting people now!  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!  Big Days mean “all hands on deck” – all volunteers serving and being willing to serve in multiple services.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  
   
   Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am or Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions or are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. As you know, Coastal does an enormous amount of Outreach throughout our community.  Much of it is funded every year through our annual Christmas Offering.  This year’s goal is $150,000.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Disaster Relief & Outreach, another 15 Passenger Van, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, CSM Summer Camp Scholarships, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  What we’ve discovered is that we reach our goal when EVERYONE participates.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can all make a sacrifice.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift any time until January 12th at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.   Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.
   
5. Coastal Young Adults Weekly Streaming of “The Porch!”  If you are in your 20’s or early 30’s you are invited to our NEW weekly gathering to stream “The Porch” including small group discussion!  Every Monday night, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the Coastal Chapel, beginning Monday night, January 24th!  For more information, please contact Pastor Scott Huff.

P.S. DON’T FORGET – we offer our Coastal Members and regular attendees free access to RightNow Media, an online church video library.  It’s just one of the many ways to express our generosity to our church family.  Essentially, RightNow Media is a Netflix for Bible studies with videos for kids, students, singles, parents and married couples by teachers like Dave Ramsey, John Piper, Max Lucado, Tim Tebow, and more.  All the content can be accessed from any computer or smart television and through the RightNow Media app on a phone, tablet, Roku, Apple TV, etc.  If you haven’t already  done so, click here to set up your account!

Last Sunday in our “Christmas at Coastal” series I talked about living in peace with others.  I made the point that ultimately, the key to peace with God, with yourself, and with others is living in the Spirit – day by day walking with Jesus and giving the Holy Spirit more and more control of every area of your life.  I read Ephesians 5:18-21 which says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

I want to come back to a little side note I mentioned in my sermon on Sunday.  The Apostle Paul starts off by saying that we’re not to get drunk on wine.  Instead, we are to be filled with the Holy Spirit.  As far as drinking and relationships go, for some of you, the best thing you could do for your marriage, for your relationships, is to quit drinking.  I don’t believe the Bible teaches that drinking is a sin.  It’s not.  Drunkenness is a sin.  The real issue is control.  Any time you put ANY substance in your body where the Holy Spirit can no longer be in complete control, you have crossed a line, and you are sinning.  But for some of you, your drinking has consistently led to problems in your relationships.  You say things and do things that you would never say and do if you weren’t drinking, and you have damaged your relationships.  If that’s true of you, it’s time to quit.  Now, if you feel like you can’t quit or you have struggled to quit over and over again, that’s a sign of a greater problem.  It’s very possible that you’re an alcoholic and you need help.  Here’s the good news – there are more people than I can count in our church who will walk with you on the road to recovery.

In fact, we have an awesome ministry at our church called Celebrate Recovery, ready to walk with you on that road to recovery.  Celebrate Recovery (CR) is a Bible-based, Christ-centered recovery program for those who struggle with life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups (pretty much all of us). The curriculum takes participants through the 8 Recovery Principles, which are based on the Beatitudes.  A hurt, habit, or hang-up is anything that hinders your walk with God.  They postpone or prevent genuine fellowship with Him and your loved ones.

You may be thinking that recovery is only for those who struggle with alcohol or drug addictions. While it certainly includes those, it’s so much bigger than that!  Most of life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups can be addressed through this ministry, including problems with anxiety, abuse, anger, grief, depression, guilt and shame, financial insecurity, divorce, dysfunctional families, sexual problems, eating disorders, and much more! 

Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday evening at 6:30PM in the Coastal Chapel and they would love for you to join them!  For more information please contact the CR Ministry Leaders, Chris and Candy Jones at (843) 708-5525.  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, December 13th;  Monday, December 16th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, December 13th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Meeting Street Tailgate: TOMORROW, Saturday, December 14th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, December 14th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Children’s Christmas Craft Station in the Carolina Bay Neighborhood: We’ll have a Team setting up and overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Carolina Bay Holiday Festival, TOMORROW, Saturday, December 14th, 11am-3pm (leaving from the church at 9:45am to set up). 
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, December 17th, 12noon-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, December 18th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 19th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, December 19th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, December 20th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Packing & Staging Party for Double Christmas Party:  Come help plus prep and prepare everything for our Double Christmas Party!  Friday, December 20th, 6pm-7pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Christmas Party at Charleston Vets & Brighton Place:  Come help spread Christmas joy for those in need in our community – food, gifts, stockings, and music!  Saturday, December 21st, 10:30am-2pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. There are lots of exciting things happening during Christmas at Coastal:
   
   – Pray about what you and your family will give towards our Annual Christmas Offering (see below)!
   
    
   – On Saturday, December 14th, you can serve at our Downtown Tailgate or you can help with a Children’s Christmas Craft Station in the Carolina Bay neighborhood.  If you live in Carolina Bay, we’d especially love your help (see details below).  
    
   – On Saturday, December 21tst, we’re hosting DOUBLE CHRISTMAS PARTY, one at Brighton Place, and one at Charleston Vets!  It’s basically a  huge Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, and stockings, at both locations.  For those of you who picked up a “Gift Tag” off of one of our trees, make sure you bring back your tagged, unwrapped gift no later than THIS Sunday, December 15th.
    
   Here are some other specific ways you can still help with Christmas Parties:
    
   1.  Link for Meal Signup (our biggest need at this point):
   https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-53039467-double#/
    
   2.  Link for Stocking Stuffers Signup:
   https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-53037711-double#/
    
   3.  Signup to serve at the event (or any of our other outreach events): https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/
    
   – Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  Pick up “You’re Invited” cards and start inviting people now!  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!  Big Days mean “all hands on deck” – all volunteers serving and being willing to serve in multiple services.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.
   
   Training for new Spring Life Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Saturday, 1/18 from 9-10:30am or Tuesday, 1/21 from 6:30-8pm. Returning leaders’ training will be online on Thursday, 1/23 from 8-9pm. All leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card this Sunday. Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you have any questions or are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. As you know, Coastal does an enormous amount of Outreach throughout our community.  Much of it is funded every year through our annual Christmas Offering.  This year’s goal is $150,000.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Disaster Relief & Outreach, another 15 Passenger Van, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, CSM Summer Camp Scholarships, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  What we’ve discovered is that we reach our goal when EVERYONE participates.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can all make a sacrifice.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift any time until January 12th at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.   Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.
      
5. On Saturday, December 14th (TOMORROW), 11am-3pm, we’ll have a Coastal Team of Volunteers overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Carolina Bay Holiday Festival, in the Carolina Bay neighborhood in West Ashley.  We’ll meet at the Coastal Box Truck at approximately 10:10am at the Carolina Bay Park to unpack and set up everything.  If you would be willing to be a volunteer to welcome and greet people, help children at a craft table, set up & clean up, and be a Coastal Ambassador, please send PC an email at pastorchris@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Not only is this a great opportunity to represent Coastal and to love on a neighborhood in West Ashley, but it’s also an opportunity to invite people to our Christmas Eve services!  We say it all the time, “Let’s make an IMPACT right where we live, work, parent, and play!”  THIS is that opportunity!

P.S. Cindi Rembert (the woman from our church who initiated our relief effort in south Georgia), has started an organization called, “Rise Restore Rebuild.”   Their mission is simple: to help those in need, whether through supplies, donations, or simply sharing love and support. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many families in North Carolina are still struggling, especially as winter approaches.  There is a critical need right now for heat sources and supplies to winterize campers.  If you are interested in learning how you can help, please call or text Cindi Rembert at 843-476-1984.  www.riserestorerebuild.com

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” – at Coastal that is!  If you weren’t here this past Sunday, I can’t wait for you to see our campus over the weekend!  You’re definitely going to want to get a family picture!  

There  are so many exciting things happening at Coastal:

– First of all, tomorrow is SATURDAY SERVE!  Show up at Coastal at 8:30am, hear a “pitch” from the Leaders of all the different projects, choose where you want to be the hands and feet of Jesus, and then go serve!  I seriously can’t think of a better way to start the Christmas season!  

– And then, this Sunday, we continue our “Christmas at Coastal” series!  I’ll be preaching about experiencing peace in relationships.  Don’t miss it!   This Sunday also happens to be “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day” (or simply something “Fun & Festive”).

– And then on Saturday, December 15th, you can serve at our DowntownTailgate or you can help with a Children’s Christmas Craft Station in the Carolina Bay neighborhood.  If you live in Carolina Bay, we’d especially love your help (see details below).  

– On Saturday, December 21tst, we’re hosting DOUBLE CHRISTMAS PARTY, one at Brighton Place, and one at Charleston Vets!  It’s basically a  huge Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, and stockings, at both locations.  For those of you who picked up a “Gift Tag” off of one of our trees, make sure you bring back your tagged, unwrapped gift no later than Sunday, December 15th.

Here are some other specific ways you can still help with Christmas Parties:

1.  Link for Meal Signup (our biggest need at this point):

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-53039467-double#

2.  Link for Stocking Stuffers Signup:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-53037711-double#

4.  Signup to serve at the event (or any of our other outreach events): https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/

– Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!

– And finally, during all of this, don’t forget to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  As you can see, there is so much Outreach that happens at Coastal.  Much of it is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Our goal is $150,000.  What we’ve discovered is that we reach our goal when EVERYONE participates.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can all make a sacrifice.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  When you give, simply use the keyword, “Christmas.”  

Coastal, let’s leverage this season and all the miracles associated with it!  Invite & bring a friend each week of this series and on Christmas Eve.  Invite someone to come and serve our community with you.  Let’s make this the best Christmas ever!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

(friend me on Facebook if we’re not already friends)

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, December 6th; Monday, December 9th; Friday, December 13th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, December 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, December 6th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, December 7th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Bolton’s Landing Holiday Market:  We’ll have a Team setting up and overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Bolton’s Landing Neighborhood Holiday Market, TOMORROW, Saturday, December 7th, 11am-2pm (leaving from the church at 9:45am to set up). 
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, December 10th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 12th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, December 13th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Meeting Street Tailgate: Saturday, December 14th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, December 14th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Children’s Christmas Craft Station in the Carolina Bay Neighborhood: We’ll have a Team setting up and overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Carolina Bay Holiday Festival, Saturday, December 14th, 11am-3pm (leaving from the church at 9:45am to set up). 
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, December 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.orgif you are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. This Sunday is “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!”  That’s right, on Sunday, December 8th, come to Coastal in your “ugliest” Christmas Sweater (or just fun, festive Christmas attire)!  It’s going to be a lot of fun, and we’ll even have a gift for you!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is THIS Monday, December 9th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

P.S. Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  Pick up “You’re Invited” cards and start inviting people now!  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!

Okay, okay, we’re not really having a “Black Friday Sale” at Coastal!  That joke never gets old!  I just thought it might be a fun way to get you to open and read my “Friday 5.”  I know how some of you get when you hear the word SALE!  

I hope you and your family truly had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday!  Today is traditionally called “Black Friday.”  And then next week we have “Cyber Monday” and “Giving Tuesday”!  Regardless of what labels we assign these days, the reality is that more people will buy more STUFF online this weekend and over the next month than any other time of the year. That’s not a bad thing, BUT it isn’t eternal.  Our church exists to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston & the world – and that IS eternal!

So, while you’re shopping online today and over the next month, why not consider doing one of 2 things.  And here’s my CYBER OFFER: 100% of your investment will go to reaching people for Jesus!

1. Go here and give to God through the local church from our website. The investment is eternal.  It lasts way longer than a big screen, toy, or new shoes.

2. Give toward our Christmas Offering – simply use the keyword “Christmas.”  Each and every gift counts – small and large.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can each sacrifice.  And when all of us do that together, that’s when God does a miracle.  Our goal this year is $150,000.

Many people give to Coastal with their smartphone through TEXTING!  Simply text the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions.  GIVE IT A TRY!  You can give any amount, any where, any time, any place.  It is not billed to your phone.  It is through your Bank/Credit Card that you register.  It is simple, safe, and secure.

Whether you and your family are here in Charleston or out of town this weekend, I hope to see you at Coastal on Sunday – in-person or online, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am!   We kick off our “Christmas at Coastal” series THIS Sunday, December 1st.   Take advantage of this season and this series and invite your friends to church!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you over the weekend!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, November 29th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, December 2nd;  Friday, December 6th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 5th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, December 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, December 6th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, December 7th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Bolton’s Landing Holiday Market:  We’ll have a Team setting up and overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Bolton’s Landing Neighborhood Holiday Market, Saturday, December 7th, 11am-2pm.  
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is NEXT Sunday, December 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.orgif you are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. There are lots of exciting things happening during Christmas at Coastal:
   – We kick off our “Christmas at Coastal” series this weekend!  Our theme is PEACE.
   – Pray about what you and your family will give towards our Annual Christmas Offering!
   – Ugly Christmas Sweater Day (or simply something “Fun & Festive”) is Sunday, December 8th!
   – All the gift tags from the Christmas Trees in the Welcome Center have been claimed!  Return the gifts tagged and unwrapped by Sunday, December 15th. We’re having a “Double Christmas Party” for the residents of Charleston Vets & Brighton Place on Saturday, December 21st!  Check out the insert in your bulletin this Sunday about all the ways to help with the event – serving, food, & stocking stuffers!
   – Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, December 9th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

P.S. Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  Pick up “You’re Invited” cards and start inviting people now!

Happy Thanksgiving!  1 Thessalonians. 5:16-18 says, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  Be sure to notice the last part of verse 18, look at it again, “this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  There aren’t a lot of passages in the Bible that specifically spell out, “this is God’s will for you,” but this is one of them.  Think about that.  This specifically is God’s will for all of us – that we rejoice always, that we pray continually, and that we give thanks in all circumstances.  In the original Greek language, they could be translated, “continually rejoice, continually pray, and continually give thanks.” 

That’s really where the challenge lies, doesn’t it?  I mean, we would have no problem if it said, “Rejoice sometimes, pray occasionally, and give thanks when you feel like it.”  It’s the words, “Always”, “Continually”, and “In all circumstances” that trip us up.  And the implication is that the real impact of the gospel will be seen in those times when we don’t feel very joyful, when we don’t want to pray, or when we can’t think of a reason to be thankful.  That’s where we discover if our faith is real or if it’s just a show.

Let’s be honest, this is a challenging verse: for the person who’s recently been divorced; the person who had a miscarriage; the person whose body is devastated by the treatments they are receiving;  the person who feels like they are barely existing in a job filled with difficulties and disappointments; the person who is overwhelmed by financial demands; the person who has to helplessly watch their child suffer;  the person who lives with a cloud of depression;  the person who has recently stood at the freshly dug grave of someone they love; or the person who feels suffocated by their loneliness.

In each of those situations, the idea of “giving thanks in all circumstances” is beyond difficult!  In fact, it seems impossible.  So what is Paul saying?  Well, let me tell you what he’s NOT saying, he’s not asking us to pretend.  Jesus openly WEPT over the death of His friend Lazarus.  And that Greek word isn’t used anywhere else in the entire New Testament.  It literally means that Jesus spontaneously burst into tears, that He was overcome with grief.  Jesus was the most thankful person who ever lived, but that didn’t keep Him from deeply identifying with human sorrow, suffering, and death.  So this is definitely not about pretending or denying.

Nor is Paul saying that we’re to give thanks FOR all circumstances.  Obviously we shouldn’t be thankful for evil or injustice or any of the many things that grieve God’s heart.  BUT, we are to be thankful IN all circumstances.  And that’s an important distinction.  The implication is NOT that everything that happens to us is good.  But rather, regardless of what happens – HE is still good!  And for the believer, JUST THAT provides us with a lifetime of reasons to be thankful.

Each year brings with it ups and downs, joys and sorrows, big & small changes – and 2024 has been no exception.  Through it all, it is my prayer that we are a grateful people and just a little bit more like Jesus.  It is my prayer, that in the midst of all the hustle and bustle of today and this weekend, that you will choose to see all the blessings in your life and be reminded that the greatest of those is that you belong to Jesus!  I can’t tell you how very thankful I am for you and for the privilege and honor of being your Pastor.  Paul’s words in Philippians 1:3 are very real to me, “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.”

Whether you and your family are here in Charleston or out of town this weekend, I hope to see you at Coastal on Sunday – in-person or online!  We’ve decorated our facility for Christmas and this Sunday we kick off our “Christmas at Coastal” series.  Take advantage of this season and invite your friends to church! 

Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Chris

P.S. This weekend & the week ahead will see the largest traffic of onlline shopping of the year!  While you’re shopping, don’t forget that you can also GIVE ONLINE.  You can give through our website, or TEXT the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions. This would be a great weekend to give to our Christmas Offering!  Simply use the keyword, “Christmas.”

On Monday of this week, we delivered over 1000 Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child to the local OCC distribution site!  Your love and generosity never cease to amaze me!  Next year we’re definitely going to up the number of shoeboxes we order!

Speaking of generosity, hopefully by now you’ve heard that this Sunday marks the beginning of our 12th Annual Christmas Offering.  So Coastal, it’s now time to start giving!  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift over the next 8 weeks (starting this Sunday, Nov. 24th – Jan. 12th) at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.   Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Disaster Relief & Outreach, another 15 Passenger Van, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, CSM Summer Camp Scholarships, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.” 

This Sunday we close out our series on this section of the Sermon on the Mount.  I say “this section” because the Sermon on the Mount actually goes all the way through chapter 7 of Matthew and we’ll be wrapping up chapter 6 this week.  But don’t worry, we’ll come back to the Sermon on the Mount in January and finish out chapter 7.  Speaking of worry, chapter 6:25-34 closes with Jesus’ famous teaching on worry.  No one struggles with worry, right?  Vs. 34 of that passage says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” You’ll have to read the rest of that passage to see why Jesus says that.  And I hope to see you Sunday as we dig into it.  And then on Sunday, December 1st, we’ll kick off our annual “Christmas at Coastal” series.  This year’s theme is all about PEACE.  If there’s something this world needs right now more than anything else, it’s peace.  Of course, we know that peace is a person – Jesus.  And true, lasting peace is only found in Him.  Worry this week, peace next week.

One of my favorite passages in the Bible, Philippians 4:6-7, talks about both worry and peace.  Listen to this, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.  Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand.  His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”  This is such a powerful verse.  It’s saying that experiencing God’s peace comes from trusting God and casting all of our worries on Him.  In fact, the word “worry” here literally means to be strangled.  That’s not God’s desire for you.  He wants to set you free from all of that.  It says that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.  The word “guard” here is a military term that means to set a military garrison in place for protection.  In other words, when God’s peace comes into our life, it acts as a supernatural army, guarding and protecting our hearts and minds against enemy attacks – including worry!  That’s good stuff!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love Christmas at Coastal!

Merry Christmas!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, November 22nd,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, November 22nd;  Friday, November 29th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, November 27th, 6-8:30pm, and Monday, December 2nd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, December 2nd;  Friday, December 6th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 5th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, December 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, December 6th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, December 7th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Bolton’s Landing Holiday Market:  We’ll have a Team setting up and overseeing a Children’s Craft Station at the Bolton’s Landing Neighborhood Holiday Market, Saturday, December 7th, 11am-2pm.  
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.orgif you are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. There are lots of exciting things happening during Christmas at Coastal:
   – Pray about what you and your family will give towards our Annual Christmas Offering!
   – If you are able and available, we could use help decorating Coastal’s campus for Christmas this Monday morning starting at 9am!
   – Ugly Christmas Sweater Day (or simply something “Fun & Festive”) is Sunday, December 8th!
   – Make sure you pick up a gift tag off the Christmas Trees in the Welcome Center to help supply a Christmas Gift for the residents of Charleston Vets or Brighton Place for our Double Christmas Party on Saturday, December 21st!  Also, check out the insert in your bulletin this Sunday about all the other ways to help with the event – serving, food, & stocking stuffers!
   – Make plans to now to attend, serve, and invite someone to one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, December 9th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

P.S. Who have you invited to church lately?  The holidays and Christmas in particular are great times to invite people to church.  Yes people are busy, but they are also hurting, searching for hope and help.  We have the answer!  Pick up a little stack of “You’re Invited” cards and hand them out over the holidays!  Pray for all the people who will be invited to our church for Christmas Eve.  Ask God to use our church, our people, YOU, to draw people to Himself as we lift up Jesus in our community!

Check out the new “Christmas at Coastal” graphic above (thanks Carla Marchione – our Graphics Artist)!  I love it!  And yes, I LOVE Christmas at Coastal!  So let’s talk about all things Christmas!  

First of all, we’ll be decorating our campus on Monday, November 25th at 9am!  If you are able and available, we could definitely use the help.  However, please keep in mind that this is not a job for children.  If you’ve seen the finished product or have helped before, you know there is a lot of lifting, moving, getting up and down on ladders, and some very detailed decorating.  But again, we could definitely use the help!

Beginning this Sunday, you’ll be able to take a gift tag off of one of the Christmas Trees just outside the auditorium to help supply a Christmas gift for the residents of either Charleston Vets or Brighton Place.  Once you sign out your tag, simply bring the gift back to the church, unwrapped, with the tag attached by Sunday, December 15th.  The Double Christmas Party (two parties going on at the same time in two different locations) will be Saturday, December 21st!

Sunday, December 8th is “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day” at Coastal!  Come to church with your “ugliest” or most festive Christmas attire!  It’s going to be a lot of fun and we’ll even have a gfit for you! 

And last, but not least, I am so excited to share with you our plans for our 12th Annual Christmas Offering!  Over the years, this offering has made a huge IMPACT on our ministry!  Well, beginning NEXT Sunday, November 24th, through Sunday, January 12th (8 weeks), we are encouraging our entire Coastal family to give above and beyond their regular tithes and offering to this year’s Christmas Offering.  

To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift during those 8 weeks (Nov. 24th – Jan. 12th) at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing, or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services (Monday, December 23rd,  6pm;  and Tuesday, December 24th, 2pm, 4pm, & 6pm).  Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.

Why a Special Offering?  It’s a way for us to grow in our faith and to prepare us for what God wants to do through our church in a bigger way in 2025.  It’s a way for us to sacrifice together as a church family and give generously.  Christmas is all about giving.  Many people, during this time of year, are in fact looking for opportunities to give.  And there is no better place to give than to your local church.

What is our goal and where is the money going?  Our overall goal is $150,000!  Is that a big goal?  Yes!  Can we reach it?  Absolutely!  As always, I am very excited about where this year’s money will be going and the potential Kingdom impact.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Disaster Relief & Outreach, another 15 Passenger Van, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, CSM Summer Camp Scholarships, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  

Let me specifically explain each project for this year’s offering: 

Box Truck.  We now have 2 Tailgating Box Trucks and 2 Clothing Distribution Box Trucks.  But what we quickly discovered this year, especially after the hurricanes came through the southeast, is that we need an empty box to help with relief projects!

15 Passenger Van.  What’s the most consistently asked question from all the places that we serve around Charleston through our Outreach, especially after they get to know us and see us on a regular basis?  Answer:  “Do you provide any kind of transportation to your church?”  We have one van that now does that, but we need another one.  We also need another van to take volunteers to the different Outreach Projects on the same day.  And then of course it would come in handy for Student Ministry and multiple other service opportunities.

VBS & CSM Summer Camp Scholarships.  Coastal has made the strategic decision to invest in the next generation – children and students!  VBS at Coastal is AWESOME!  We see hundreds of children and don’t charge a thing.  Each year Coastal subsidizes Summer Camp and even provides scholarships for students who can afford it. We don’t see these things as an expense.  We see them as an investment – an investment in the next generation, an investment in the Kingdom.

Peru Mission – New Life Children’s Home.  A portion of this year’s Christmas Offering will go to providing Christmas for all the children in the orphanage and their workers.  It will also help cover expenses and salaries for the Children’s Home. 

Soldier’s Angels Monthly Food Distribution.  Through the Low Country Food Bank, Soldier’s Angels provides approximately 70lbs. of groceries to 200+ local veterans who find themselves facing food insecurity.  Coastal already provides Volunteers each month who help with organizing, sorting, preparing, and loading the food.  We will be footing the bill for half (6) of this year’s Food Distributions!

How much should you give?  Prayerfully consider giving a gift that will stretch your faith and include your whole family.  For some people, coming up with “extra” money is difficult.  We’ve learned that as we give, God provides.  Maybe you decide to give up eating out or buying coffee for 8 weeks and give that money to the Christmas Offering.  Maybe you sell something or have a yard sale.  For some people $1000 above your regular giving is a huge sacrifice.  For others, it’s not.  Someone might decide to cover the whole cost for the Box Truck, a Van, VBS, or any of our other projects.  

Just like our Giving Campaigns over the years and all the other Christmas Offerings we’ve done in the past, we can’t all give the same amount, but TOGETHER, we can ALL make a sacrifice.  That’s when God shows up and does a miracle, when together we ALL step out in faith. 

Remember, this offering should be over and above what you regularly give.  If you’re not regularly giving (weekly, monthly), use this time of year to start.  If you’re not tithing (10% of your gross income), step out in faith and start.  Reaching this goal will be a celebration of what God can do through us as together we stretch our faith.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love Christmas at Coastal!

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, November 15th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, November 19th, 12noon-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, November 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, November 21st, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, November 21st, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, November 22nd,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, November 22nd, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, November 27th, 6-8:30pm, and Monday, December 2nd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.orgif you are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. Operation Christmas Child – This Sunday, November 17th, is the last Sunday to bring back your OCC Shoeboxes filled to overflowing with toys and supplies for children all around the world!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, December 9th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel THIS Sunday, November 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

This past Sunday I announced that we are going to have a Beach Baptism this Saturday (TOMORROW), November 9th, at 3pm at Folly Beach County Park!  We’re calling it our “Polar Plunge/Beach Baptism!”  I shared that the whole thing started with a conversation with a woman who wanted to wait to get Baptized over the Summer at the Beach.  I said, “Why wait?”  Well guess what?  We now have 12 people getting Baptized at the Beach tomorrow!  And that number could go even higher!  So, if Baptism is your next step and you’re interested in getting Baptized at the Beach and are willing to brave the colder water, you can respond to this email or sign up for it on our website.  Again, we’ll be at Folly Beach County Park!  The Baptism will be at 3pm.  We’ll be down at the Beach closest to the park entrance side.  Look for the church van – I’ll have Baptism t-shirts and Coastal beach towels waiting for you!  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism tomorrow, but would still like to get Baptized, remember, at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  Simply sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday, or sign up now on our website.  We actually have another Baptism this Sunday during the first service!  God is definitely up to something at Coastal!  I’m just humbled that I get to be a part of it!

Coastal, I ask you to join me in praying for our nation.  While I am continually troubled by what I see all around me, I am not surprised, and more importantly, I am not without hope.  Why?  Because Romans 5:20 says, “But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant.”  You see, I still believe that the light shines brightest in the darkness.  And if we are going to heal, if we are going to overcome the divisive spirit in our land, I believe that we as followers of Jesus have to lead the way.  I’ve said it for years, and I believe it now more than ever, Jesus truly is the ONLY hope of this world – not a President, not a political party, not any policies.  This world is not our home and ultimately our only allegiance is to Jesus and His Kingdom.  Our collective mission is still the same – to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!  That’s all that matters, and that is what’s needed now more than ever before.

Psalm 40:1-2, “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.  He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”  There is no doubt that the world in which we live is a slimy pit of mud and mire, and so many people today seem to be sinking deeper and faster.  They’ve lost their footing.  But the good news is that in Christ, God has pulled me and you out of that same mud and mire, cleaned us up, and set us on solid ground – the rock solid ground of Jesus Christ and His Word.  We have risen above the filth of this world, not by any goodness or righteousness of our own, but by the grace of God.  In fact, He heard our humble, repentant cries and lifted us out.  He saved us.  He rescued us.  So, open your ears and hearts this week to the cries of the world around you.  And before you sling the very mud that you yourself have been pulled up out of, try pointing people to the One and Only Savior who can rescue and save.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, November 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, November 8th;  Monday, November 11th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, November 9th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, November 9th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, November 12th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, November 14th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, November 15th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, November 19th, 12noon-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, November 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
3. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.orgif you are interested in leading a Group.
   
4. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world!  You guys are AMAZING!  We had 1000 shoeboxes that we were handing out – and they are ALL gone!  So now we’re simply asking you to fill the boxes you took home and then bring them back to the church between now and Sunday, November 17th.  Way to go Coastal! 
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, December 9th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Food & childcare provided!

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel NEXT Sunday, November 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

It was an amazing Sunday this past week at Coastal as we Baptized another10 people!  Do you realize that we’ve already Baptized over 150 people this year!  And what’s really cool is that after witnessing all those people getting Baptized last Sunday, another 10 people expressed interest in getting Baptized!  As we say at Coastal, we’re ready for you to get Baptized any Sunday, any service.  Simply sign up online or on your Connect Card and we’ll follow up with you.  And guess what?  Next Saturday, November 9th, at 3pm at Folly Beach County Park we’re having our own little “Polar Plunge/Beach Baptism!”  We’d love for you to join us!

It’s hard to believe, but this week marks THREE YEARS since we’ve been in our new facility (we completely gutted our old building, added on to it, and connected our two facilities with a beautiful new Welcome Center)! Three years – let that sink in for just a moment.  Our new facility has literally affected almost everything we do in such a positive way, and it all gets used almost every day of the week.  Three years ago, during the month of  October, our average Coastal Kidz attendance was just over 100.  Last Sunday, Coastal Kidz attendance was 258!  Our overall attendance average 3 years ago during October was just under 500 people.  Last Sunday our overall attendance was 1078!  All of that in just 3 years!  

But guess what Coastal?  We’re just getting started!  God’s not finished with us.  There is more to be done. There are more people to reach with the Gospel. There are more children to share Jesus with. There are more hurting people to heal, more hungry people to feed, more people to clothe, more lives to change.  So join us in this mission to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!  Step out in faith and attempt something great for God!  Keep reaching out and inviting your friends and neighbors to join us at Coastal!  Keep giving your money generously and sacrificially to support the vision and mission here!  Keep serving and loving our community with us!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, November 1st;  Friday, November 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, November 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, November 1st;  Monday, November 4th, Friday, November 8th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW,  Saturday, November 2nd.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, November 7th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, November 9th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, November 9th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Okay, so this is definitely not Folly Beach, and I promise that the water is not this cold in Charleston in November (or ever for that matter – haha)!  However, next Saturday, November 9th, at 3pm, we are having our own “Polar Plunge/Beach Baptism” at Folly Beach County Park!  If Baptism is your next step and you’d like to join us, you can sign up online or on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game TOMORROW, Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. Grieving?  Know someone who is?  Join GriefShare’s free, one time event on Monday, November 4th at 2pm or 6pm that will help participants prepare for difficult emotions this holiday season and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue (616-443-6553) with questions or register today at www.griefshare.org. 
   
5. One of the projects for our upcoming Saturday Serve THIS Saturday, November 2nd, is a Cleaning & Beautification Day over at Oakland Elementary School.  Some of the things we will be doing is: trimming trees/vines along the driveway and sidewalk at entrance/exit, pressure washing the sign/marquee at the entrance, weeding the garden beds along the front of the school, trimming/removing limbs, and edging and blowing the parking lot and driveway.  If you have any of the tools and equipment for these projects and would like to serve on this project, then come to Saturday Serve, and join us in serving our neighbors!

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

The picture above is of David Torman, one of several men from Coastal who spent hours underneath a home in Swannanoa, NC, digging through and cleaning out bucket after bucket after more buckets than you can count of mud and muck and filthy insulation.  The only way to describe it is a combination of pluff mud and sewage.  For those of you (like me) who are fans of the movie, “Shawshank Redemption”, it reminded me of that scene at the end of the move where Andy Dufresne crawled through 500 yards of a sewage pipe to escape prison.  One of the famous quotes from the movie came from the character Red, who said, “Andy Dufresne, the only man who crawled through a river of !@#+% (poop), and came out clean on the other side.”  I guess it’s David’s smile, despite being covered in filth, that made me think of that scene.  And there is nothing on this side of eternity that can create or manufacture that kind of joy, except humbly serving in God’s Kingdom.  And that’s what we did in Georgia two weeks ago and in North Carolina last week.  Over the past two weeks our church has given tons and tons of water, food, and supplies. We sent those supplies all over the southeast. Over 90 Volunteers personally took time away from work, home, and their busy schedules and went to GA & NC to serve and love the people who were most affected by the storms.  Our Volunteers are some of the hardest working people I’ve ever seen. And you do it all with enthusiasm and joy! And not only that, because of your generosity, we were able to personally give away $34,000 to individual families, many of whom had lost everything. I can’t be more proud of our church and our Volunteers who prayed, served, and gave.  And you continue to do it, week in and week out!

This Sunday, October 27th, is Baptism Sunday at Coastal!  Don’t miss it!  Right now it looks like we’ll be Baptizing almost 20 people throughout the day!  We’ll be baptizing people in all 3 services – 8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am!  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If Baptism is your next step, sign up online today!  

Don’t forget to return the Oakland Elementary School gift items tagged (but not wrapped) by this Sunday, October 27th.  Return the Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes to the church filled with toys and gifts by Sunday, November 17th. I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, October 25th;  Friday, November 1st,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, October 25th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 31st; Thursday, November 7th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, November 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, November 1st;  Monday, November 4th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, November 2nd.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is THIS Saturday (tomorrow), October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email or sign up on our website.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. Grieving?  Know someone who is?  Join GriefShare’s free, one time event on Monday, November 4th at 2pm or 6pm that will help participants prepare for difficult emotions this holiday season and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue (616-443-6553) with questions or register today at www.griefshare.org. 
   
5. One of the projects for our upcoming Saturday Serve on Saturday, November 2nd, is a Cleaning & Beautification Day over at Oakland Elementary School.  Some of the things we will be doing is: trimming trees/vines along the driveway and sidewalk at entrance/exit, pressure washing the sign/marquee at the entrance, weeding the garden beds along the front of the school, trimming/removing limbs, and edging and blowing the parking lot and driveway.  If you have any of the tools and equipment for these projects and would like to serve on this project, then come to Saturday Serve, and join us in serving our neighbors!

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

I hope you and your family are having a great Friday!  As you read this email a group of 32 of us from Coastal are up in Swannanoa, NC (a little town west of Asheville), serving and loving the people in that area.  As I write this email (Wednesday morning) I wish I could tell you exactly what we’ll be doing, but as I’m sure you can imagine, the jobs and needs change every day.  Honestly, we might not know until we arrive (Thursday morning).  But what we do know is that we’re going to serve and work, doing whatever they need.  That’s what I love about our church – our flexibility and willingness to serve and adapt.  But I will give you a report over the weekend on what we saw and did.  One thing that I do know we’ll be doing while we’re there is directly and individually giving away another $20,000 to families in need!  Coastal, all of this is only made possible by your consistent generosity.  We will only be collecting supplies for another week, so I want to encourage anyone who is going to any area affected by the recent storms to come by the church and pick up supplies (many have already done so).  But please don’t forget the we as a church are ALWAYS in need of food for our Community Food Bank.  We feed A LOT of people in our community!  

You should have received your 3rd Quarter Giving Statement this week by email.  This helps our Finance and Admin Team stay on top of any changes or corrections before the end of the year, AND it gives me a chance as your Pastor to say “Thank You!”  The best way to make sure your information is current and correct in our database is to TEXT the keyword ME to 843-571-1777.  There you can view and update your contact information, manage your giving, access your giving statement, and more!

Guess what?  ALL of the Oakland Gift Tags and ALL of the Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes have been taken!  Now they just need to be  returned.  Return the Oakland gift items tagged (but not wrapped) by Sunday, October 27th.  Return the OCC Shoeboxes to the church filled with toys and gifts by Sunday, November 17th.

Make sure you take a moment to watch the short Baptism video above.  It’s a simple collection of a bunch of Baptisms here at Coastal.  But each one of those individuals getting Baptized has a story, a testimony.  Their story consists of 3 parts – what their life looked like before they met Jesus, how they met and gave their life to Jesus, and now, what a difference Jesus has made in their life, how He’s changed them.  And Baptism is a public testimony of all of that.  It’s a way of “going public” with your faith.  It’s a way of personally identifying with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus and the washing away of your sins.  Well, on Sunday, October 27th, we’re having Baptism Sunday at Coastal!  “But Pastor Chris, I thought at Coastal, we’re ready to Baptize people any Sunday, any service?”  Yes, we are!  But Baptism Sunday is simply a way to encourage those who are ready to take this next step, to do so.  So if that’s you, consider this a “nudge” from me to get Baptized on the 27th of this month.  Jesus did it, He commanded it – what are you waiting for?  Go to our website and sign up today! 

On a personal note, I wanted to let you know about something I’m very excited about.  I’ve been a part of a Pastor’s Coaching Group for about 14 years now.  I meet with a group of about 20 Pastors from around the country for 2 days, 5 times a year.  Most of the time, we’ve met in Florida for our meetings.  But this past year we’ve moved some of our meetings to the churches of the Pastors in our Group.  And this week, Tuesday & Wednesday, we’re meeting here at Coastal!  Being a part of this Group has been one of the most impactful things I’ve ever done over the years for our church and for me personally.  I love these men, many of whom have become some of my best friends.  Most of them feel like they already know you because of all the things I’ve shared over the years, because many of them follow us on social media, but mostly because of all the prayers they have prayed for me and for you!  So in true Coastal style, we’re going to roll out the red carpet next week for these Pastors!  We’ve got special gifts and LOTS of food (something we do well) for them!  There might even be a few of them who come in to town early and join us for church this Sunday.  So pray for them and for our time together here at Coastal this week.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Much, Much Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, October 18th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hollywood Free Laundry Day: Saturday, October 19th, 6:45am-10:15am join us out at “We Fold It” Laundromat as we provide FREE laundry service for the residents of Hollywood!   Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, October 23rd, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, October 25th;  Friday, November 1st,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, October 25th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 31st, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, November 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, November 1st, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
4. Grieving?  Know someone who is?  Join GriefShare’s free, one time event on Monday, November 4th at 2pm or 6pm that will help participants prepare for difficult emotions this holiday season and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue (616-443-6553) with questions or register today at www.griefshare.org. 
5. Sunday, October 27th is BAPTISM SUNDAY at Coastal – all 3 services, 8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am!  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If Baptism is your next step, sign up online today! 

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

P.S.S. There will be an important Safety & Security Team Meeting for all current members and those interested in joining the Team TOMORROW, Saturday, October 19th, 9am, in the auditorium.  Come at 8am if you want to help with Chair Set-Up!

OH MY GOODNESS CHURCH!  Your response to EVERYTHING we have going on right now just continues to blow me away!  It doesn’t surprise me necessarily (not anymore), but it humbles me and fills my heart with love and gratitude for each and every one of you.  First of all, there has been a MOUNTAIN of supplies coming in for Hurricane Relief.  By the way, if you’re heading anywhere where they need supplies, come by the church and load up your vehicle (several people have done that already).  If you’ve talked to anyone who went down to south Georgia with us on Wednesday (60+ volunteers!), you know it was a moving and memorable experience.  We gave away food, supplies, and a hot meal to around 400 hurting people.  Many of those people had very little to begin with (it’s a poor, rural community) and still don’t have power or water.  Plus we were able to individually give away $12,000 to families in great need – a single mom with 5 children, a husband and wife who lost their roof, a woman whose husband was killed in the storm by a tree that fell on their house.  These were just some of the many stories we heard and helped this week.  Coastal, God did all of that and more, through YOU!

Oh, and speaking of the other things we have going on right now, as of this email we only have 191 Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes left of the 1,000 we put out on Sunday!  WOW!  If you haven’t gotten yours yet, pick them up on Sunday (or at Double Tailgate tomorrow).  Just bring them back to the church filled to the brim with toys and gifts no later than November 17th.

Also, we only have a few more “leaves” from the Oakland Elementary School Wishlist Tree.  Pick up a “leaf” in the Welcome Center, write down your  Tag# on the signup list, purchase the items, return them tagged (but not wrapped) by Sunday, October 27th.

This coming Thursday morning, October 17th, we’re leaving early for an overnight work trip to western NC.  We will be going to Swannanoa, NC, just outside of Asheville.  They definitely need physical labor help.  We meet at the church at 5:30am and leave no later than 6am, work all day Thursday, probably sleep in a church somewhere (that’s being coordinated now), get up and work most of the day Friday, and then leave for Charleston Friday afternoon, arriving at Coastal around 8pm.  This is a work trip, not a trip for small children.  We’ll be taking shovels, gloves, chainsaws, and other equipment like that.  If you would like to go, please sign up online.  I sent out an updated list of supply needs earlier this week.  This is a self-sustaining trip (bring your own food and sleeping bag).  We will be roughing it.  Once you sign up for the trip, I should be sending out an email early next week with the updated details.  As I’m sure you’re aware, things are changing there every day.  Right now we already have 28 people signed up for the trip – wow!  Like I said earlier – not surprising, just AMAZING!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

From a Heart Bursting With Love!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, October 11th;  Monday, October 14th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, October 11th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, October 12th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, October 12th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, October 15th, 12noon-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, October 16th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 17th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Disaster Relief Trip:  We’re heading up to Swannanoa, NC to help with the clean up effort and deliver supplies.  Meet at the church at 5:30am on Thursday, October 17th (leaving at 6am).  Returning to Coastal on Friday, October 18th around 8pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, October 17th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, October 18th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hollywood Free Laundry Day: Saturday, October 19th, 6:45am-10:15am join us out at “We Fold It” Laundromat as we provide FREE laundry service for the residents of Hollywood!   Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. Grieving?  Know someone who is?  Join GriefShare’s free, one time event on Monday, November 4th at 2pm or 6pm that will help participants prepare for difficult emotions this holiday season and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue (616-443-6553) with questions or register today at www.griefshare.org.
   
5. Sunday, October 27th is BAPTISM SUNDAY at Coastal – all 3 services, 8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am!  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If Baptism is your next step, sign up online today!

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

P.S.S. There will be an important Safety & Security Team Meeting for all current members and those interested in joining the Team on Saturday, October 19th, 9am, in the auditorium.

To say that I was blown away by your response and generosity for Hurricane Relief is an understatement!  WOW!  I’d say that I was speechless, but you know that’s not possible – haha!  Truthfully, it’s just Coastal being Coastal, doing what we do time and time again.  Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!  Tomorrow morning we’ll be caravanning down to south Georgia with 50+ volunteers to feed 4-500 people and give away a MOUNTAIN of food and supplies!  And not only that, we’ll also be giving money DIRECTLY to multiple families who were hit hard and struggling to survive.  Now, are you ready for this?  Not only did Coastal donate a ton of food and supplies to give away, but you gave over $20,000 to give to hurting families.  I’m sure there will be more money coming in, but we’ll be able to help families in both south Georgia tomorrow and western NC next week. If you designate your gift “RELIEF” or “Benevolence,” we will make sure it gets to people in need.  You can also TEXT any amount to our church number, 843-571-1777 (ex. “$100 RELIEF”).

So, speaking of western NC, let me give you the details as we know them right now.  This will be an overnight work/clean up trip.  We will be meeting at the church at 5:30am on Thursday, October 17th, and leaving no later than 6am.  Right now it looks like we will be going to Swannanoa NC, just outside of Asheville to help with clean up (dress appropriately).  As the trip gets closer we’ll know more about what exactly we will be doing (things are changing every day).  We’ll be working from our arrival (approximately 11am) until dark.  More than likely we’ll be sleeping on a floor somewhere, so bring a sleeping bag (we will be roughing it).  Each person needs to be self-sustaining – bring what you will need for food/snacks, small personal cooler, etc.  We’ll bring a large cooler.  We’ll work most of the day on Friday, and leave for Charleston by 3pm, arriving back home around 8pm.  Check the weather before we leave.  It looks like the temperatures have begun to drop there, so please keep that in mind.  If you would like to go on this trip, please sign up online.  For those who sign up online, I will send out an email early next week with all the updated information. 

We will be bringing supplies with us to NC, but the supply list is very different from what we were collecting for south Georgia and other areas.  Here is the new list of supplies needed:

    ◦    Work Gloves and nitrile gloves
    ◦    Shovels
    ◦    Cleaning supplies
    ◦    Pump sprayers
    ◦    Water hoses
    ◦    Sump pumps
    ◦    Pry bars
    ◦    Box cutters
    ◦    Rubber boots
    ◦    Wheel barrows
    ◦    Batteries
    ◦    Sugar free electrolyte drinks
    ◦    igloo water coolers
    ◦    Chest freezers
    ◦    Dehumidifier
    ◦    Fans
    ◦    Duct tape
    ◦    Folding chairs
    ◦    Big squeegee
    ◦    Propane tanks
    ◦    Chainsaws  
    ◦    Protective gear – gloves, chaps, eye/ ear protection 
    ◦    Extra chains for saws
    ◦    Log splitters
    ◦    Tarps
    ◦    Charcoal 
    ◦    Ext cords
    ◦    Pressure washers
    ◦    Power tools

If you have or can purchase any of these items, please bring them to the church by Wednesday of next week.  We will still be collecting other supplies from our previous list for a few weeks.  While we are NOT collecting clothes for Disaster Relief, Coastal’s Clothing Ministry gives away an enormous amount of clothing throughout the year to people in need, and right now we are in need of Men’s (not Women’s) & Children’s clothing.  And the same thing goes for our Food Pantry.  Right now we are giving away A TON of food to our community and our Food Pantry is getting low.  So whether it is for Disaster Relief or for our Food Pantry, just know that your donations are going to people in need and making a difference!  If you are planning a trip to any of the affected areas over the next several weeks, please come by the church and load up your vehicle with supplies. 

Whew! I think that’s about it – for now – haha!  If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  Please pray for the people we will be helping/serving and for the volunteers who will be going.  Also, please pray for your Pastors and Staff here at Coastal.  We have an amazing Team, always ready and willing to do whatever it takes.  But times like these can and do take a toll on everyone, including our leaders.  I love you Coastal!  Hopefully, I’ll give you a recap on our Georgia Trip & an update on the NC trip in this week’s Friday 5!

Much, Much Love & Gratitude! 
Pastor Chris “PC”

P.S.  Again, here’s the link to sign up online to go to Swannanoa, NC next week.  And if you’re making a trip anytime soon to ANY affected area, stop by the church to pick up supplies or let us know what you need!

WOW!  There are so many exciting outreach opportunities going on at our church right now – from our Disaster Relief Trip to Nicholls, GA next week, collecting ongoing Disaster Relief Supplies, Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes, Oakland Elementary School Teacher/Classroom Supply Drive, and then of course all the regular outreach opportunities including Saturday Serve this Saturday! 

Let me give you a quick rundown of those outreach opportunities (and a new one):

–  Disaster Relief Trip to Nicholls, GA.  Hopefully by now you’ve seen my earlier email and all the social media posts about our trip to Nicholls, GA on Wednesday.  We’re leaving from the church at 6am and putting on a “Double Tailgate” – giving away food, supplies, and a hot meal to people in need in south Georgia.  

– And speaking of Disaster Relief Trips, all the details are not yet finalized, but we are planning an overnight work trip to western NC on Thursday & Friday, October 17th & 18th.  We will be going to Barnardsville, NC, just north of Asheville.  It’s in the Buncombe County area (one of the hardest hit counties).  We have a connection from our church with people in the area.  And they definitely need physical labor help.  We would leave early, early Thursday morning, work all day Thursday, probably sleep in a church somewhere (that’s being coordinated now), get up and work most of the day Friday, and then leave for Charleston early Friday afternoon.  This is a work trip, not a trip for children.  We’ll be taking shovels, gloves, chainsaws, and other equipment like that. If you have any interest in going, please let me know.  I’d love to see us take 10-15 people ready to jump in and help!

– For the next several weeks we will be collecting Disaster Relief Suppliesthat will not only go to Nicholls, GA, but to people in need all over the Southeast.  As people from our church and community make trips to various places in need, we are asking that you come by the church, load up your vehicle with supplies, and deliver them to people and places in need.

– Beginning this Sunday, you’ll be able to take home Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes to fill up with toys and gifts.  I know it might seem crazy talking about Christmas in early October, but if you’ve visited any retail stores the last couple of weeks, Christmas displays are already out.  Well, one of our favorite missions that we support here at Coastal is Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world. Our kiosk in the Welcome Center will be filled with the remaining shoeboxes ready to take home each Sunday (until they’re gone).  There will be an insert in the bulletin this Sunday with suggested items to fill the box.  This would be a GREAT opportunity for you to teach your children about generosity, the true meaning of Christmas, and the love of Jesus.  Help us reach our goal of packing over 1000 shoeboxes this year and share the love of Jesus (and the Gospel in their own language) with children all around the world!  Pray about how many boxes your family would be willing to pack, step out in faith, grab a few shoeboxes on Sunday, and help us do just that!  Shoeboxes must be filled and returned by Sunday, November 17th.  

– Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  Our church has a beautiful, special relationship with Oakland Elementary School (one of the schools across the street from our church). This relationship has been forged over 20 years of serving, giving, and loving.  Well, one of the things that has become a yearly tradition for us is our Oakland Elementary School Teacher Wishlist Tree/Tags.  The Tree and Tags are located in the Welcome Center in front of the auditorium.  Each tag represents a need in a classroom (paper, pens, notebooks, markers, wipes, snacks, etc. – nothing too expensive).  And if you know Teachers, you know they are notorious for taking care of the needs themselves, making do, or even worse, going without.  We don’t want to let that happen!  So choose a “leaf” from the tree, purchase the items, and then return them to the church (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, October 27th.  Questions?  Contact Rachel at rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.

Whew!  I know that sounds like a lot, all going on at the same time, and it is.  But that’s okay, that’s what we do, and we serve a great God who supplies all our needs – AMEN!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Reaching Out Together!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, October 4th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, October 4th;  Monday, October 7th; Friday, October 11th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, October 5th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, October 8th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Disaster Relief Double Tailgate:  We’re heading down to Nicholls, GA  on Wednesday, October 9, to pass out supplies, food, and a hot meal.  Leaving from Coastal at 6am.  Returning to Coastal around 8pm.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Thursday, October 10th, 11am-2:30pm.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 10th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, October 11th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, October 12th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, October 12th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, October 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
5. Sunday, October 27th is BAPTISM SUNDAY at Coastal – all 3 services, 8:30am, 10am, and 11:30am!  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If Baptism is your next step, sign up online today! 

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

P.S.S. There will be an important Safety & Security Team Meeting for all current members and those interested in joining the Team on Saturday, October 19th, 9am, in the auditorium.

First of all, let me just say how much I love the heart of our church!  We are known as the church that serves and loves its community and neighbors.  So, the most asked question we’ve received over the last several days is, “How are we going to be involved in the relief effort?” and “How can I help?”  Since the storm went through, we have been in conversation with several churches, organizations, and individuals all affected by the storm.  This morning I was on the phone with a Pastor of a church in Swannoa, NC, one of the hardest hit areas in Western NC.  He cried over the phone at the outpouring of help and support and seeing God move in their small town.  He’s had people in his church who’ve been involved in literally pulling bodies out of the riverbank.  He told me that right now, they don’t need any more food or water.  Their greatest need is money, labor, and clean up supplies (shovels, wheel barrows, dump trailers).  He also told me that as he talked to specific people from their church and their community with specific needs, that he would reach out.  I also spoke with Brian & Madison Ross, a young family who were leaders and very involved at Coastal, who now live in Western NC.  Brian works for Samaritan’s Purse (one of the largest Christian Relief Organizations in the world).  When I called him, he was literally setting up a field hospital in Linville, NC.  Since the storm came through we’ve had conversations with people all over the Southeast who have been affected by the storm.

This is going to be a long, long road to recovery.  Think Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Andrew.  The reality is that some communities will not recover or be rebuilt.  People will be relocating and starting over.  So what can we do?  Well, what we’ve learned over the years is that it’s important to work with people and/or organizations that you know and trust to ensure that the help needed gets to the people in need.  We’ve also operated under the principle of, “Do for one (or a few), what you wish you could do for everyone.”  In other words, we might not be able to give water, food, supplies, and money to everyone in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, but who do we know and who can we help?

So, after a lot of conversations and a lot of prayer, here’s what we’re going to do and how you can help.  One week from today, on Wednesday, October 9th, at 6am, we’re going to be pulling out of Coastal with all 4 Box Trucks and our Van and head down to the small, south Georgia town of Nicholls, GA (about 4 hours away) in Coffee County.  We should be back in Charleston around 8pm.  Why Nicholls, GA?  Well it’s a poor, small (2-3,000 people), south Georgia town that was also hit hard, hasn’t got a lot of press, and not really near a bigger City with supplies.  Therefore, it hasn’t received a lot of help.  We also have a contact with someone we know and trust.  Cindi Rembert, from our church, is from the town and still has family who live there.  She is also working closely with the Mayor of the Town and helping to coordinate some of the relief effort.  Since the storm she’s been driving down with food and supplies.  So when we arrive at the local Town Community Center, we’re going to be setting up a “Double Tailgate” where we anticipate feeding 4-5 hundred people (hamburgers/hotdogs – our normal tailgate), handing out clothes (from our clothing trucks), and giving out food and supplies that we collect this week.  That’s where you come in!  We have less than one week to collect any of the following supplies that we will carry with us to Nicholls, GA:

Bottled water 
Non Perishable Food (protein, pop-top meals/canned goods) 
Contractor size trash bags 
First Aid supplies
Feminine Hygiene
Diapers
Toilet Paper 
Paper Towels
Cleaning Supplies (bleach, spray, wipes)
Baby Food, Formula
Tarps
Pet Food
Charcoal

Please feel free to bring any of the items to the church this weekend – Saturday Serve or Sunday morning.  You can also drop them off during the week – Mon-Thurs, 9am-4pm. And feel free to continue dropping off supplies even after next Wednesday.  I envision our church serving as a local hub of food and supplies for our community.  Then as people from our church and community make trips in the coming weeks to help friends and family in various places in the upstate, NC, FL, GA, and TN, they can simply drop by the church, pick up a car load of food, water, and supplies and personally deliver them to people in need.

We also obviously need volunteers to make the trip to Nicholls, GA with us to pull this off.  We will be driving our Coastal Van and caravanning with anyone who is available, leaving at 6am from the church on Wednesday, October 9th.  Please sign up online if you can go!

One last thing.  The biggest need that we keep hearing over and over is money.  There are plenty of organizations out there to give to.  One of the most trusted is Samaritans Purse (they also organize Operation Christmas Child).  You can also give to our church.  If you designate your gift “RELIEF” or “Benevolence,” we will make sure it gets to people in need.  You can also TEXT any amount to our church number, 843-571-1777 (ex. “$100 RELIEF”).  Earlier today, because of a connection from someone at our church, we were able to give a significant financial gift to a single mom of 4 children with no family, living in the Chimney Rock area who had made a living cleaning AirBnb’s and working at a local restaurant.  Both of her jobs are now gone.  This is how she responded to the gift:

“I’m literally bawling my eyes out. You are a walking angel.  You and your community are a God send.  I will never be able to thank you enough.  I have no words.  I’m so incredibly thankful.  I was feeling defeated, but God is good.  Please tell your church the impact they just made for me and my kids!”

Coastal, when I tell you that your consistent, generous giving enables our church to do all that it does here, in the community, and around the world, this is an example of what I’m talking about.  Well, I think that’s about it.  Coastal let’s do this!  Let’s show the watching world (and Nicholls GA), that there is help and hope!

Much Love! 
Pastor Chris “PC”

P.S.  Again, here’s the link to sign up online to go to Nicholls GA next week.  And if you’re making a trip anytime soon to ANY affected area, stop by the church to pick up supplies or let us know what you need!

A couple of weeks ago, at the end of one of our services, I said something like, “I don’t say something like this often and I’m not saying that I heard an audible voice from God, but I am saying that I believe that God has been tugging at someone’s heart about serving in Coastal Kidz.”  You know what?  I still feel that way.  And I’m wondering if it might be YOU!  Coastal Kidz (Birth – 5th Grade) regularly sees over 200 children each and every week.  It is an amazing ministry with amazing Staff & Volunteers who are making an eternal IMPACT on the next generation of Jesus followers!  And yes, there is a place for YOU!  

I asked Aly Huggins, our Children’s Director, where the greatest need for Volunteers is right now in Coastal Kidz.  Here’s what she said: 

“Do you like weird sayings, writing on your arm, and wearing long socks? Well we have just the place for you! Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade classroom in Coastal Kidz is a rewarding place to share your faith with preteens through games, worship, story, and activities. We welcome almost 30 kids in this age group at the 10am service alone! Which means having loving and dedicated leaders is an essential need. If you think you may have an interest in spending an hour on Sunday with kids this age, we invite you to come check it out and see what we do.”

While the Elementary Classrooms might be our current greatest need for Volunteers in Coastal Kidz, there are plenty of other places to serve.  From Child Check-in, to the Nursery, to Assisting in a classroom, to being a Buddy for a Special Needs child, I promise there is a rewarding place for you!  So consider this your official “nudge” to respond to God tugging at your heart.  Contact Aly Huggins at aly@coastalcommunitychurch.org for more information or come to the child check-in desk on a Sunday and ask for Aly!  I love you Coastal!  I love being the Pastor of a church with so many children, and a church who makes them a priority!  And I love watching them grow up to know and love Jesus with you!

Still A Kid At Heart,
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, September 27th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, September 27th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 3rd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, October 4th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, October 4th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, October 5th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
3. YOUNG ADULTS social at the Charleston Battery game on Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7pm. The cost is $20 which includes a ticket to the Ultra Lounge private deck, soft drinks, & snacks. Parking is not included in the cost of the ticket. Sign up on your Connect Card or on this link to reserve your spot today! Email Pastor Scott with any questions scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is NEXT Sunday, October 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
5. Find your favorite Coastal gear – shirts, hats, cups, car decals and more! Check out Coastal’s online store, always available under the Resources Tab at CoastalCommunityChurch.org or click here.

P.S. 2025 PERU MISSION TRIP INFO MEETING!  There will be informational meetings with Q&A between the 1st and 2nd services and between the 2nd & 3rd services in the Coastal Chapel on Sunday, Nov. 17th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2025!

P.S.S. There will be an important Safety & Security Team Meeting for all current members and those interested in joining the Team on Saturday, October 19th, 9am, in the auditorium.

It’s been another exciting week at Coastal!  First of all, our new semester of LIFE Groups started this week!  I’ve heard nothing but GREAT things!  Personally, I lead a Wednesday morning Men’s Group, and it was so great to see everyone and get started again!  We have awesome LIFE Group Leaders, and I can’t wait to hear all the stories of community, connection, and life change!  Many of our Groups are full, but for those that aren’t, it’s still not too late to join.  Go to our website and sign up today!  We’ve now had close to 1000 signups for LIFE Groups!

And then, of course, we jumped back into our sermon series, “Blessed,” on the Sermon on the Mount.  As a part of this series, we’re emailing out a Daily Devotional (Monday-Friday) written by our Pastors/Staff.  I hope you’ll include it as a part of your daily devotional life.  If you’d like to get the devotionals, but you’re not currently receiving them, make sure you sign up for them on your Connect Card on Sunday (or reply to this email).

This Sunday, in the Sermon on the Mount, I’ll be in Matthew 5:17-20.  We’re going to be talking about the place and purpose of Scripture in our lives.  You’ll also see the high value Jesus placed on Scripture.  In verse 18 of that passage Jesus said, “For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.”  Question – what value do YOU place on Scripture?  

I recently heard a shocking statistic that really bothered me.  It comes from the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University from a survey of 2000 adults.  Now, as surveys go, I realize that’s not a large number, and I understand that statistics can be tricky, and you can get numbers to say pretty much anything you want.  But still, their findings were disturbing.  Here’s what they found:  only 6% of American Christians (not unbelievers, but CHRISTIANS) have a Biblical worldview.  Now, that might automatically raise a couple of questions in your mind.  First of all, what do we mean by a “Biblical worldview”?  Well, a worldview is simply a way of seeing the world.  It shapes how we think and behave.  In computer language, it’s our operating system.  My worldview is the beliefs that I build my life on.  It’s how I view everything in life.  It’s how I view God.  It’s how I view myself.  It’s how I view other people. Your worldview is the basis on which you make your decisions.  It’s how you decide what you decide.  Your worldview determines all of your choices. 

A Biblical worldview then is a way of experiencing, interpreting, and responding to all of life in light of Biblical perspectives.  It’s thinking and behaving like Jesus.  Well, if so few Christians claim to have a Biblical worldview, what IS the prevalent worldview.  It’s something called syncretism.  What’s syncretism you ask?  Simply put, it’s a little bit of this and a little bit of that.  It’s piecing together different worldviews, different philosophies, different belief systems that fit the individual’s emotions and thoughts in the moment.  

Coastal, that is not what Jesus taught or lived at all.  The truth of God’s Word should shape every area of our life, every decision that we make.  It should shape our thoughts and beliefs about life, about death, about relationships, about time, about money, about sexuality, about marriage and parenting, about everything!  As followers of Jesus we don’t get to pick and choose what we believe and think about any given subject based on our needs and feelings at any given moment.  Remember, the Sermon on the Mount is all about what a follower of Jesus looks like – the life that God blesses.  Over and over again Jesus said, “You have heard it said (about various topics and subjects), but I say to you.”  Come this Sunday and discover what Jesus had to say about the Word of God and its purpose in the life of a believer!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love following Jesus with you!

LIFE & LOVE
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   VA Stand Down for Homeless:  Feeding approximately 400 local Veterans and their Service Providers.  TODAY, Friday, September 20th, 9:30am-2pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Ronald McDonald House Meals That Heal:  On Saturday, September 21st, 8-10am, we will be providing breakfast for the resident of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, September 25th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, September 26th;  Thursday, October 3rd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, September 27th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown! Friday, September 27th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, October 4th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, October 4th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, October 5th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. We could use help setting up chairs in the Auditorium TOMORROW, Saturday, September 21st at 8am.  If you are able to help or would like to join the Chair Team, email Pastor Scott Huff.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, October 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
5. Attention Coastal Student Ministry Parents and families!  Sign your student up for CSM Serve Weekend!  It’s September 27-29, and it’s a weekend where students will learn why we serve and that God has gifted each of us uniquely to serve others. Plus we’re going to go and actually serve together!  Amidst all of this, we’re going to worship, dig into God’s Word, and have a ton of fun in between!  All you do is drop your student off on Friday, and we’ll see you on Sunday where you will pick up your student at the third service!  It’s just $75!  Click the link to sign up and encourage your student to invite a friend!  I pray God uses this weekend to transform your student’s perspective on God’s call to serve and His amazing gifting to do so!

P.S. For almost 15 years now, Bryan Miller has faithfully served as the Leader of Coastal’s Safety & Security Team.  When Bryan first started he was a SC State Trooper and our church was MUCH smaller and our campus had a MUCH smaller footprint.  Bryan’s experience, level headed leadership, and love for our church have all been instrumental in the growth of our Safety & Security Team.  After all these years, Bryan has decided to pass the baton of leadership to Jason Huggins.  But don’t worry, Bryan isn’t going anywhere.  He just won’t carry the responsibility of leading the Team.  You’ll still see him serving, keeping an ever watchful eye over our services, alongside our Team.  Jason is married to Aly, our Children’s Director, and together they have 5 children.  And like Bryan, Jason has a lifetime of experience in Law Enforcement.  Before coming to Coastal he also led a Safety Team at their previous church.  So, make sure you thank Bryan for his faithful service and welcome Jason to the Team!  There will be an important Safety & Security Team Meeting for all current members and those interested in joining the Team on Saturday, October 19th, 9am, in the auditorium.

I know sometimes I must sound like a broken record, but it was another amazing Sunday at Coastal this past week!  It was LIFE Group Sunday!   We had 1131 people in-person and another 907 online!  By the way, I want to thank those of you who have been parking over at Oakland – please keep it up!  I can’t thank all of our LIFE Group Leaders enough for all of their hard work and creativity (SNL’s Lunchroom Lady, all the “B’s” buzzing around) this past Sunday!  They “knocked it out of the park” again!  It was as though you could reach out and touch the excitement, fun, and enthusiasm in the room!  Plus, are you ready for this, so far we’ve had over 900 total signups for LIFE Groups!  That’s AWESOME!

While a few of our LIFE Groups are already full, many are not.  So go to our website, check out the catalog, and sign up for a LIFE Group today!  Once you sign up for a LIFE Group, your Group Leader will contact you with all the important information.  Most LIFE Groups begin THIS coming week.  If you have any questions about Groups, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.

And then don’t forget that this Sunday, September 15th, we jump back into our series on the Sermon on the Mount, called, “Blessed!”  I’ll be preaching from Matthew 5:13-16 where Jesus talks about being salt and light.  He’s telling us that as we follow Him, we will have an impact on the world around us – much like salt and light.  Why not put that passage into practice this weekend and invite someone to join you at church on Sunday.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love making an IMPACT with you!

LIFE & LOVE
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, September 13th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, September 14th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Tomorrow, Saturday, September 14th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, September 16th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, September 17th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, September 18th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Thursday, September 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, September 19th, 11:30am-1pm.
   VA Stand Down for Homeless:  Feeding approximately 400 local Veterans and their Service Providers.  Friday, September 20th, 9:30am-2pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Ronald McDonald House Meals That Heal:  On Saturday, September 21st, 8-10am, we will be providing breakfast for the resident of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. Typically, during our LIFE Group semester, our Groups help take care of chair set up in our auditorium on Saturday mornings.  But until Groups get started, we could use help on the following dates:  Tomorrow, Saturday, September 14th at 9:30am and Saturday, September 21st at 8am.  If you are able to help or would like to join the Chair Team, email Pastor Scott Huff.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, October 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
5. Attention Coastal Student Ministry Parents and families!  Sign your student up for CSM Serve Weekend!  It’s September 27-29, and it’s a weekend where students will learn why we serve and that God has gifted each of us uniquely to serve others. Plus we’re going to go and actually serve together!  Amidst all of this, we’re going to worship, dig into God’s Word, and have a ton of fun in between!  All you do is drop your student off on Friday, and we’ll see you on Sunday where you will pick up your student at the third service!  It’s just $75!  Click the link to sign up and encourage your student to invite a friend!  I pray God uses this weekend to transform your student’s perspective on God’s call to serve and His amazing gifting to do so!

P.S. Text the keyword ME to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information, manage your giving, access your giving statement, and more! If you receive an error, that means we do not have your cell phone number in our church system – fill out your Connect Card with your information and check the “change in contact information” box. Questions about anything Coastal? Simply text your question to the number above and we’ll assist you.

The next couple of weeks are going to be super exciting at Coastal with 2 BIG DAYS!  First of all, this Sunday, September 8th is LIFE Group Sunday!!  That’s right – THIS SUNDAY!  And most Groups start the week of September 15th (obviously not February – haha).  I sent out an email yesterday with the wrong date and then I sent out a correction and still got it wrong somewhere else – AAAAAAHHHHH!  Just goes to show that I need as much grace as you do!  

So, what is LIFE Group Sunday you ask?  For those of you who are new to Coastal, let me explain.  Our Sunday morning worship service is pretty much the same, but just a little shorter.  We do that because we want to make plenty of time before and after each service for you to visit a table/booth representing each one of our 64 different LIFE Groups (kind of like a Job/College Fair, but for Groups)!  You’ll be able to meet other people checking out all the Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, enjoy some yummy snacks, and ask any questions you might have.  There will even be FREE Kona Ice outside for everyone!  I promise it will be a great day and a lot of fun!  But most importantly, GO ONLINE AND SIGN UP FOR A LIFE GROUP!  

And then the following Sunday, September 15th, we jump back into our series on the Sermon on the Mount, called, “Blessed!”  In fact, it’s a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  I’ll be preaching through the Sermon on the Mount on Sunday mornings.  All of our Groups will be studying it during the week.  And then beginning on Monday, September 16th, you’ll be receiving a Daily Devotional through the Sermon on the Mount as well.  It’s going to be a powerful season of Spiritual Growth!

Here are some very practical things I’m asking you to do.  1. Pray.  Pray that God would use our church and our people to draw people to Himself as we lift up the name of Jesus!  Pray for me and my messages.  Pray that the Holy Spirit would move in a mighty powerful way!  2. Pull out the stops, and invite and bring a friend to church with you, especially over the next two weeks!  Step out in faith, be bold, and make the ask!  3. If at all possible, consider going to the 8:30am service or the 11:30am service to make more room in the 10am service.  4. This one is BIG – park over at Oakland Elementary School.  This simple gesture will make the transition time between services go so much smoother.  See you and your friends on Sunday!  By the way, I absolutely LOVE IT when you introduce your friends to me!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love doing LIFE with you!

LIFE & LOVE
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Today, Friday, September 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Today, Friday, September 6th;  Monday, September 9th;  Friday, September 13th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Tomorrow, Saturday, September 7th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, September 10th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, September 12th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, September 13th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, September 14th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, September 14th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12noon, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!
   
3. Typically, during our LIFE Group semester, our Groups help take care of chair set up in our auditorium on Saturday mornings.  But until Groups get started, we could use help on the following dates:  Saturday, September 14th at 9:30am and Saturday, September 21st at 8am.  If you are able to help or would like to join the Chair Team, email Pastor Scott Huff.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, October 6th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today.
   
5. Our regular Sunday night Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) resumes THIS Sunday night, September 8th, 5:30pm-7pm (doors open at 5pm). Wednesday Bible Study begins this coming Wednesday, September 11th, 7pm-8pm.   As always, if you have any questions about Student Ministry, please reach out to our Youth Pastor Jacob Bonetti.

P.S. Have you considered automating your giving? It’s a great way to stay consistent. You can do that through your Bank, our Offering Envelope, or through TEXTing.  Just text word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 to get set up.  And as always, if you have any questions you can call the church office (843-571-1777) and we will step you through it.  Just remember that the Ministry and IMPACT of Coastal continues whether you’re here on a Sunday or not.  And everything we do is made possible by your consistent, generous giving!

So, have you signed up for a LIFE Group yet?  If you haven’t heard, we unveiled our 2024 Fall Semester LIFE Group Catalog!  And just like college, your preferred classes (LIFE Groups) will fill up fast!  So, go to our website right now, check out all the different Groups and sign up today.  Most of our Groups start the week of September 15th.  Next Sunday, September 8th, is LIFE Group Sunday!  Don’t miss it – it’s always a lot of fun!
 
This weekend is Labor Day weekend.  Most people have Monday off from work.  A lot of people will be taking that last hurrah, that last getaway, that last trip to the beach this weekend, before the rhythm and routine of the Fall sets in.  Even though schools have been back in session for almost 2 weeks now, Labor Day weekend feels like the end of Summer and beginning of the Fall.
 
So let me ask you, what does the rhythm and routine of your life look like right now?  And most importantly, where does your spiritual life fit in? Is it a small piece of the pie that you’re desperately trying to fit in to an already overcrowded, busy schedule?  Or is it the most important thing, permeating every part of your life, the priority through which everything else flows?  Does the rhythm and routine of your life include reading your Bible, gathering together regularly with your church family in worship, LIFE Group, fellowship, prayer, giving, serving?
 
Here’s the good news.  You choose the rhythms and routines of your life.  You set the priorities.  If you don’t, the urgent will always win the day.  And the urgent, regardless of how pressing it feels in the moment, is usually not the most important.  For example, join a LIFE Group this semester.  Make it a part of the rhythm of your life.  I can already hear some of your excuses.  And here is the biggest one of all, “But Pastor Chris, I just don’t have the time.  I’m too busy.”  Hear this with all the love I can muster.  You have time to do whatever it is you value – tv, social media, sports, hobbies.  It’s just not that important to you yet.  So, as we move into the Fall, think about what matters most in this life, let that determine your values and priorities, and in turn let those values and priorities set or reset the rhythms and routines of your life.
 
One last thing – who have you been inviting to church with you lately?  I sincerely believe that every Sunday is a great opportunity to invite someone to church, but we do have a couple of “Big Days” coming up at Coastal.  Next Sunday, September 8th, is LIFE Group Sunday.  And then on Sunday, September 15th we jump back into our series on The Sermon on the Mount called, “Blessed” and all of our LIFE Groups kick off that week.  In other words, leverage this season and these opportunities to invite someone to Coastal.  God is up to something BIG at our church and I believe we’re going to see the fruit of that this Fall.  Pray about who you will be inviting.  Step out in faith, be bold, and make the ask!  See you over the weekend!  If you are out of town, make sure you catch us online!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love serving alongside of you!

LIFE & LOVE
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown! Today, Friday, August 30th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, September 5th & September 12th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, September 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, September 6th;  Monday, September 9th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, September 7th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, September 10th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – THIS Wednesday night, September 4th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card or online.
   
3. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. I’ll say it again, have you signed up for a LIFE Group yet?  Check out the2024 Fall Semester LIFE Group Catalog and sign up for a Group today!  I love what we do here at Coastal on Sunday mornings!  I do!  I love everything about it.  I love the music.  I love watching people come to faith.  I love all of our LIFE Teams and our Sunday morning Volunteers.  Sunday mornings at Coastal is an exciting place to be.  I don’t understand how you would ever want to miss it.  But. . . there is one weakness with a crowd.  It’s hard to grow in a crowd.  You don’t live out/walk out your faith in a crowd.  You need community.  And that’s what our LIFE Groups are all about!  This semester, we have 64 different LIFE Groups to choose from!  And since we’re all studying the same thing, you really just have to pick out the time and location of the Group you’re interested in.  And don’t worry, we still have our Support and Recreation Groups.  Unless otherwise indicated, most Groups begin the week of September 15th and last 11 weeks (right around Thanksgiving).  Oh, and one more thing, because you read my Friday 5, you can go online, check out all the Groups, and sign up today!  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. There will be no Coastal Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) this Sunday night because of Labor Day weekend.  Our regular Sunday night Student Ministry will resume next Sunday, September 8th, 5:30pm-7pm (doors open at 5pm).  We are encouraging all Students to come to Coastal’s Night of Worship on Wednesday, September 4th, 6:30pm-8pm, to kick-off our Wednesday Bible Study which will begin the following Wednesday, September 11th, 7pm-8pm.   As always, if you have any questions about Student Ministry, please reach out to our Youth Pastor Jacob Bonetti.

P.S. We would like to officially announce that Morgan Rainey has been hired as our new Outreach Assistant!  As most of you know, Morgan was one of our Summer Interns.  She worked alongside Pastor Chris Jones as an Outreach Assistant and did an amazing job!  We are blessed to have her join our Team!  She is moving back to Charleston this weekend, so when you see her on Sunday, make sure you give her a warm Coastal welcome!  And feel free to send her an email doing the same!

I’M BACK!  Janet and I are back from our vacation.  We went to Knoxville, TN to see our daughter and her husband, and then we went to Folly Beach and hung out there for a few days.  We had a great, great time.  We got to see our children, hang out with some good friends, fish (me), sew (Janet), eat some good food, rest, and relax.  But as always, it’s also good to be home!

Speaking of home, for every home or family to thrive and function well, there are certain things that have to get done.  In other words, we all have to pitch in and do our part.  Well, the same is true of a church family.  For OUR Coastal family to grow, thrive, and function well, there are certain things that have to get done.  We call those “things” – ministry.  And at Coastal, all of those ministry opportunities take place through our LIFE Teams.  For the month of August, there has been a real push on finding a place to serve in the family here at Coastal on Sunday mornings.  In fact, we’ve said, if you call Coastal your home, you should be able to answer this question, “What is my ministry and where am I serving on Sunday mornings?”

Well, I’d like to highlight one possible LIFE Team for you to serve on here at Coastal – our Coastal Kidz Children’s Ministry (Birth – 5th Grade).  We strongly believe that if our church is going to continue to grow, we must have a growing, thriving Children’s Ministry.  We also believe that if you help change the life of a child, you change the world!  Simply put, join Coastal Kidz and be a WORLD CHANGER!  There are so many opportunities for men, women, and even students to serve – from Child Check-In, to Lead Teacher, to Classroom Assistants, to holding babies in Nursery.  So, stop what you’re doing right now, go to our website and sign up to get involved with Coastal Kidz!  As always, if you have any questions, or would just like to see what happens on a Sunday morning in Coastal Kidz, reach out to our Children’s Director, Aly Huggins at aly@coastalcommunitychurch.org.

One last thing, Teachers and Students have all made their way back to school!  No matter what school looks like for you and your family this year – public, private, charter, homeschool, or even college – will you join me in praying for our Teachers, Students, and Parents?  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love serving alongside of you!

LIFE & LOVE
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there TODAY, Friday, August 23rd,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown! Today, Friday, August 23rd; Friday, August 30th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, August 28th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, August 29th; Thursday, September 5th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, September 6th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, September 4th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card or online.
   
3. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. Guess what? This coming Sunday, in your bulletin, you’ll be receiving your  2024 Fall Semester LIFE Group Catalog and you can start signing up for a Group!  I love what we do here at Coastal on Sunday mornings!  I do!  I love everything about it.  I love the music.  I love watching people come to faith.  I love all of our LIFE Teams and our Sunday morning Volunteers.  Sunday mornings at Coastal is an exciting place to be.  I don’t understand how you would ever want to miss it.  But. . . there is one weakness with a crowd.  It’s hard to grow in a crowd.  You don’t live out/walk out your faith in a crowd.  You need community.  And that’s what our LIFE Groups are all about!  This semester, we have 64 different LIFE Groups to choose from!  And since we’re all studying the same thing, you really just have to pick out the time and location of the Group you’re interested in.  And don’t worry, we still have our Support and Recreation Groups.  Unless otherwise indicated, most Groups begin the week of September 15th and last 11 weeks (right around Thanksgiving).  Oh, and one more thing, because you read my Friday 5, you can go online, check out all the Groups, and sign up today!  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. This Sunday, August 25th, 5:30-7PM, CSM is kicking off our Fall Semester programming! We are so excited to invest in your Student (6th-12th Grade), and we have a fun night planned.  There’s going to be food, games, bubble soccer, smores and an open gym!  The goal of our kickoff is for Students to reconnect with each other and their leaders, while having a ton of fun at the same time.  If you have a 6th-12th Grade Student, this is a great night to introduce them to CSM!  As a parent or guardian, please plan to come inside when you drop off your Student so that we can update your information in our system.  We look forward to serving you and your family in this season!

P.S. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

Wow – what an awesome day Sunday was!  We baptized another 41 peopleout at Folly Beach!  That means that we have now baptized 139 people so far this year!  I say “so far” because it’s only August, and I firmly believe that God isn’t done!  God is using our church in a powerful way!  

Coastal, I’ll just say it, what we are experiencing isn’t normal for most churches.  But I don’t want normal and I don’t want to settle for what most churches are doing!  Someone once told me, “If you want your church to grow, just look around at what most churches are doing and do the opposite.”  Because most churches aren’t growing.  Do you know what I want?  I want Acts 2:47 to become the new normal, “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”  I want to walk in Holy Spirit power, by faith in the resurrected Savior, and trust in the Sovereign Holy God!  I want to attempt things so big, that without God, we’re doomed to fail!  Simply put, I want all God has to offer and I want to share the good news of the Gospel with as many people as possible until He calls me home or comes again!  That’s what I want – what about you? 

Do you know what’s also normal at most churches?  20% of the people, do 80% of the work.  Read that again.  20% of the people, do 80% of the work.  That’s normal and that’s why most churches aren’t growing.  For the month of August, there has been a real emphasis on finding a place to serve in the family here at Coastal on Sunday mornings.  In fact, we’ve said, if you call Coastal your home, you should be able to answer this question, “What is my ministry and where am I serving on Sunday mornings?”  

So how about it?  What about YOU?  What’s your ministry and where are you serving on Sunday mornings?  Just one person, one service, once a month, makes a huge IMPACT.  Church isn’t a show you watch or an event you attend.  Church is a family.  And for our family to grow and function in a healthy way, it takes everyone pitching in, pulling together, and doing their part.  So whether it’s Coastal Kidz, Prayer Team, Security, Tech, Worship, First Impressions, Cafe, or Online Engagement (whew!) – you should be serving!  But you should be serving not just because there is a need (there is always a need).  You should be serving because this is your FAMILY!  Sign up today online or this Sunday on your Connect Card!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love serving alongside of you!

Never Normal!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, August 16th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, August 20th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, August 21st, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, August 22nd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there Friday, August 23rd,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, August 23rd, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, September 4th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
3. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. LIFE Groups are just around the corner!  It’s going to be an exciting semester!  Remember, the whole church is going to be studying the same thing – The Sermon on the Mount!  Because of that, the LIFE Group Catalog will be a little different.  We’ll still have our many Support Groups and Activity Groups, but since our “regular” LIFE Groups will all be studying the same thing, you’re really just picking the time and location.  But the Catalog with all the information will be available on Sunday, August 25th.  LIFE Group Sunday with all the Tables, Leaders, and great snacks throughout the building will be Sunday, September 8th.  LIFE Groups will begin the week of September 15th!  I hope you’re as excited as I am!
   
   For All LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  We have 3 Trainings (you only have to come to one):
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Monday, August 19 at 630-8pm
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=VWRSb3RORnJFbTA9
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Saturday, August 24 at 9-1030am
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=V2l2NEJSQnBkSDA9
   
   – RETURNING leader training ONLINE on Thursday, August 22 at 8-9pm
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cko4YXUvd3luMGM9
   
   If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. On Sunday, August 25th, 5:30-7PM, CSM is kicking off our Fall Semester programming! We are so excited to invest in your Student (6th-12th Grade), and we have a fun night planned.  There’s going to be food, games, bubble soccer, smores and an open gym!  The goal of our kickoff is for Students to reconnect with each other and their leaders, while having a ton of fun at the same time.  If you have a 6th-12th Grade Student, this is a great night to introduce them to CSM!  As a parent or guardian, please plan to come inside when you drop off your Student so that we can update your information in our system.  We look forward to serving you and your family in this season!

P.S.  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

I love our volunteers here at Coastal – I do!  I truly believe we have some of the best volunteers any church could imagine.  I think the reason we have a high number of committed volunteers here at Coastal is two-fold.  People will serve when they fall more deeply in love with Jesus.  Service is an outflow of a love relationship with Jesus.  The key is to grow in your love for Jesus and when you do, you’ll understand who He has made you to be, and then you’ll WANT to serve Him by serving others.  

Here’s the other reason I believe we produce a lot of committed volunteers.  We consistently teach that the Christian life is fundamentally a life of servanthood.  That’s our primary position – servant.  Jesus is our Master and we are His servants.  Whatever He says goes.  In our world where we are the center of the universe and everything revolves around me and my needs, we have to continually remind ourselves that we serve God by serving others, by putting others ahead of ourselves.  And even in the modern church where we have created a culture of finding a church that offers the best and the most and “I didn’t get anything out of that service” and “I’m burned out” and “I’m too busy” and “I’ve served my time,” somewhere in all of that, we have forgotten that we are here to glorify God, reach out to people who are far from Him, and to be a servant to all.  It’s not about you.  It’s about Him.

We talk about life all the time here.  We exist to share and experience what?  The LIFE and LOVE of Jesus.  Jesus came that we might have LIFE and have it more abundantly.  Well, Jesus said something very interesting about LIFE in Luke 9:23-25, “Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily, and follow me.  If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it.  But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life.  And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose or forfeit your own soul in the process?”  Jesus is saying that we find our lives not by focusing on ourselves, but by giving away our lives for the sake of Him.
 
The month of August, as we move into the Fall, we’re focusing on finding a place to serve in the family here at Coastal on Sunday mornings.  It’s real simple.  If you call Coastal your home, ask yourself this question – what is my ministry and where am I serving on Sunday mornings?  Whether it’s Coastal Kidz, 1st Impressions, our Cafe, the Security Team, the Tech Booth, the Prayer Team or countless other opportunities, there is a place for you!  Go to our website, check out all the different opportunities to serve, and sign up today!  Or, this Sunday, make sure you sign up on your Connect Card, or at all the different LIFE Team Sign-up Sheets just outside the auditorium.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love serving alongside of you!

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, August 9th;  Monday, August 12th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there TODAY, Friday, August 9th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, August 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: TOMORROW, Saturday, August 10th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, August 13th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, August 15th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, August 15th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, August 16th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, August 20th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, August 21st, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal. 
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park THIS Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. LIFE Groups are just around the corner!  It’s going to be an exciting semester!  Remember, the whole church is going to be studying the same thing – The Sermon on the Mount!  Because of that, the LIFE Group Catalog will be a little different.  We’ll still have our many Support Groups and Activity Groups, but since our “regular” LIFE Groups will all be studying the same thing, you’re really just picking the time and location.  But the Catalog with all the information will be available on Sunday, August 25th.  LIFE Group Sunday with all the Tables, Leaders, and great snacks throughout the building will be Sunday, September 8th.  LIFE Groups will begin the week of September 15th!  I hope you’re as excited as I am!
   
   For All LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  We have 3 Trainings (you only have to come to one):
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Monday, August 19 at 630-8pm
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=VWRSb3RORnJFbTA9
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Saturday, August 24 at 9-1030am
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=V2l2NEJSQnBkSDA9
   
   – RETURNING leader training ONLINE on Thursday, August 22 at 8-9pm
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cko4YXUvd3luMGM9
   
   If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
5. On Sunday, August 25th, 5:30-7PM, CSM is kicking off our Fall Semester programming! We are so excited to invest in your Student (6th-12th Grade) and we have a fun night planned.  There’s going to be food, games, bubble soccer, smores and an open gym!  The goal of our kickoff is for Students to reconnect with each other and their leaders, while having a ton of fun at the same time.  If you have a 6th-12th Grade Student, this is a great night to introduce them to CSM!  As a parent or guardian, please plan to come inside when you drop off your Student so that we can update your information in our system.  We look forward to serving you and your family in this season!

P.S. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

Our church is GROWING!  You can track it and see it in every measurable category – attendance, Baptisms, serving, giving, and Groups.  And if what we’re seeing, even over the Summer, is any indication of what’s to come, this Fall is going to be CRAZY exciting!  And so as we prepare for the Fall and all that God is doing here at Coastal, here’s what I’m asking you to do:  ask yourself this question – what is my ministry and where am I serving on Sunday mornings?  For the month of August, we’re focusing on everyone who calls Coastal home, finding a place to serve on Sunday mornings.  At Coastal, we call our Ministries – LIFE Teams.  Simply put, with the growth of our church – we need you (and you need this too)!  

Sunday morning is still the primary way in which new guests get connected to our church.  And to create an environment where those people feel like our welcomed, expected guests in our home, it requires a large and growing volunteer army.  Are you serving in that army?  Now, we don’t want to guilt anyone into serving.  Instead we want to “grace” you into it.  I want you to be so overwhelmed and blown away by the undeserved love, grace, and blessing of God that you are begging us for a place to serve on Sunday morning!

Over the next month, you’ll see a LIFE Team insert with all the different ministries in the bulletin, you’ll hear from different LIFE Team volunteers on stage, in the pre-show, and online.  There will be sign up sheets on the kiosk outside the auditorium, and you can sign up on your Connect Card.  But the simplest way to enlist in that LIFE Team army is to go to our website, check out all the different LIFE Teams, and click on the ones that interest you!  I promise our Leaders will quickly follow up with you, and you’ll experience the joy of serving!  It’s that easy to get started!  Just one person, one service, once a month, makes a HUGE impact!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together in our community, our world, and right here in our church on Sunday mornings!  See you over the weekend!

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, August 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, August 2nd;  Monday, August 5th;  Friday, August 9th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, August 3rd.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, August 8th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, August 9th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, August 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, August 10th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal is looking to hire an Administrative Assistant.  This would be a part time, hourly position – approximately 31 hours a week, Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-1pm.  This person would work closely with Rachel Speer, supporting our Pastors and Staff, and managing our office reception area.  If you are interested, please submit a resume to info@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
4. LIFE Groups are just around the corner!  It’s going to be an exciting semester!  Remember, the whole church is going to be studying the same thing – The Sermon on the Mount!  Because of that, the LIFE Group Catalog will be a little different.  We’ll still have our many Support Groups and Activity Groups, but since our “regular” LIFE Groups will all be studying the same thing, you’re really just picking the time and location.  But the Catalog with all the information will be available on Sunday, August 25th.  LIFE Group Sunday with all the Tables, Leaders, and great snacks throughout the building will be Sunday, September 8th.  LIFE Groups will begin the week of September 15th!  I hope you’re as excited as I am!
   
   For All LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  We have 3 Trainings (you only have to come to one):
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Monday, August 19 at 630-8pm
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=VWRSb3RORnJFbTA9
   
   – NEW leader training in-person on Saturday, August 24 at 9-1030am
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=V2l2NEJSQnBkSDA9
   
   – RETURNING leader training ONLINE on Thursday, August 22 at 8-9p
   https://www.churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cko4YXUvd3luMGM9
   
   If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, August 4th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

By now, you’ve probably heard that our Missions Trip to Peru which was supposed to happen this week, ended up being cancelled.  Last Saturday, early in the morning, our 30 person Team showed up at the Charleston Airport with great excitement and anticipation for all they were going to experience and God was going to do in and through them and the people of Peru.  Their excitement moved to concern, confusion, and then complete disbelief and disappointment as they (along with literally thousands of other people around the world) suffered through delay after delay after delay, missing connecting flights, to cancellation. By the end of the day, the only options they were given were to send a few on a flight on one day, another few on another day, and so on and so forth.  Or to send everyone on a flight on Thursday (yesterday).  Our Team was to begin their return home late tonight.  Obviously, those options were no options at all for our Team of 30.  So, the very difficult decision was made to cancel our trip.  It was one of the longest, hardest, emotional days for our 30 member Team.  Each and every one of them had prayed, prepared, and sacrificed in different ways for this trip.  Some of our Team had been before and were so excited to be returning.  Many were going on a Missions Trip for the first time in their life.  My heart was broken for our Team.

Several thoughts I want to share with you after this experience.  First of all, I am very thankful for Pastor Scott Huff and his leadership of this Team, preparing them for this experience, and his leadership on this difficult day.  You can see the true heart of a leader on days like this.  I’m also thankful for the Team itself and the way they handled and responded to this disappointment.  One of the hardest life lessons to learn, even in the life of a Christian, is to trust God even when things don’t go the way we want them to or think they should.  And that’s especially true when it’s a good and noble plan, one that we’ve worked faithfully to accomplish, prayed about, and sacrificed for – like this Peru Missions Trip.  And it’s moments like this that we simply have to trust in the sovereignty, faithfulness, and love of God.  We might not ever know or understand the answers on this side of eternity.  I’m also thankful for and excited about the generosity of our church.  While the Team itself did not make it to Peru, $28,000 from our church went to Peru to build houses and a community kitchen, to purchase blankets and food for the homeless, and to provide for various needs at the children’s home.  If you give financially to Coastal, YOU are part of making an IMPACT around the world.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.    

One last thing that I want to share with you that I just found out about yesterday.  On Wednesday night, Mike Kennedy, the Missionary who oversees the Children’s Home and mission work in Peru, had to go to the emergency room. He’s been fighting pain from what he thought was a muscle strain, but had begun to realize was a hernia. The doctors said it was really serious and recommended immediate surgery.  He went to see a surgeon yesterday to see how quickly they can get him in.  It can’t wait until they get back to the states in a few weeks.  It really was a good thing that he wasn’t building homes on the side of a mountain with our group this past week.  He could have been seriously hurt, or worse.  Was that the reason we didn’t end up going to Peru this week?  Honestly, I don’t know.  But I do know this, God is in control, Jesus in on the throne, and the Holy Spirit is alive and well, moving in the hearts and lives of His people.  And our mission has not changed – to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor, serving and leading alongside of all the awesome Pastors, Staff, and Servant Leaders of our church!  And I love, love, love what we get to do together!  See you Sunday!

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, July 26th;  Friday, August 9th,  9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, July 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, August 1st;  Thursday, August 8th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, August 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, August 2nd;  Monday, August 5th;  Friday, August 9th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, August 3rd.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs is THIS Sunday, July 28th at 5pm!  Join us for a game between the Charleston Riverdogs and the Annapolis Cannon Ballers at Joe Riley Ballpark. Tickets are FREE and so is parking! To reserve your tickets, simply text the word TICKETS to 843-571-1777 and then click on the link you receive back to fill out the form. Tickets will be sent to you by the email you submit so you can download them digitally to your phone for entry into the ballpark that night. There are no physical tickets for Riverdogs games. Arrive early in any Coastal t-shirt and watch our Youth Pastor, Jacob Bonetti, throw out the first pitch before the game starts.  We have less than 200 tickets left!
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is NEXT Sunday, August 4th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

This Sunday, July 21st, I’ll be kicking off another favorite Summer Sermon Series tradition here at Coastal –“Summer Reading”!  “Summer Reading” is where we pick a group of books for you to read over the Summer, and then the subject matter of each of those books becomes the sermon topic for that particular Sunday.  Now before some of you freak out, thinking that I’ve gone heretical, thrown out the Bible, and I’m now preaching from other books instead of the Bible, throw away your email and simmer down.  That’s not what we’re doing.  We’re not preaching from the books themselves.  If anything, I think you’ll discover that during this series you will find yourself compelled to go to scripture as we point people to the truth of His Word and a deeper relationship with God.  

Here is the Book List and the order in which we will be using them:

When Your Way Isn’t Working by Kyle Idleman
The Crucified Life by A.W. Tozer
The Bait of Satan by John Bevere
Think Ahead by Craig Groeschel
Rest & War by Ben Stuart
Holier Than Thou by Jackie Hill Perry
Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer

So, I hope you’ll pick up one or two or all of them and read them over the Summer.  After all:  Leaders are what?  Readers!  Retired Admiral James Stavridis of the US Navy once said this, “The single best way a leader can learn and grow is through reading.  So many of our best leaders develop and enhance their ability to lead through endless contact with books.”

One last thing, please keep our Peru Missions Team (30 people) in your prayers!  They leave tomorrow and will return next Saturday, July 27th.  Pray for them and the people of Peru they will be serving.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I am truly humbled by what we get to do together!

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, July 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, July 24th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, July 25th;  Thursday, August 1st, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, July 26th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, July 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, August 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, August 2nd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs is quickly approaching! Join us Sunday, July 28th at 5pm for a game between the Charleston Riverdogs and the Annapolis Cannon Ballers at Joe Riley Ballpark. Tickets are FREE and so is parking! To reserve your tickets, simply text the word TICKETS to 843-571-1777 and then click on the link you receive back to fill out the form. Tickets will be sent to you by the email you submit so you can download them digitally to your phone for entry into the ballpark that night. There are no physical tickets for Riverdogs games. Arrive early in any Coastal t-shirt and watch our Youth Pastor, Jacob Bonetti, throw out the first pitch before the game starts.  We still have about 250 tickets left!
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, August 4th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S.  Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Monday, August 26th, from 6-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card (let us know if you need childcare) on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

WOW!  WOW!  WOW!  I can not say enough great things about VBS this week!  First of all, we saw 329 children and had approximately 200 volunteers!  And speaking of volunteers, I know I say this all the time, but we really do have the best volunteers on the planet!  We could not do all that our church does without you!  And you’ve done so much this week, with excellence, joy, and enthusiasm – even during that crazy lightning/rain storm on Tuesday when we LOST POWER and then lost power AGAIN last night!  But nothing phases you guys!  I am proud to be your Pastor!  And most importantly, I’ve just loved hearing all the stories this week of children learning about and loving Jesus.  That’s why we do what we do!  By the way, this is also why we give sacrificially here at our church.  And this is why we’ll continue to walk by faith and trust God for big things – so that we can reach the next generation for Jesus!

Speaking of giving sacrificially, right now (not counting tonight’s offering or anything you’d like to give on Sunday) our VBS offering is approximately $30,000!  That means all Shanty Homes for Peru are paid for and we can start paying for the next 15 passenger van.  

But remember, VBS is not quite over yet!  Tonight is our Party and Closing Program!  From 6pm-7pm (weather permitting) we’ll be outside for hotdogs, Kona Ice, and jump castles.  And then at 7pm we’ll come inside for songs and a slide show!  It’s all FREE, and you’re invited to join us!

One last note about VBS.  To pull off a week long event of this magnitude, with this many moving parts, this many kids, and this many volunteers, it requires great leadership.  Janet Rollins and Aly Huggins are great leaders and have done a great job!  Like all great leaders, they are quick to defer and point to all of their leaders and volunteers.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I am truly humbled by what we get to do together!

In His Service & Yours!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, July 12th;  Monday, July 15th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, July 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, July 13th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, July 16th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, July 17th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, July 18th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, July 18th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, July 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs is quickly approaching! Join us Sunday, July 28th at 5pm for a game between the Charleston Riverdogs and the Annapolis Cannon Ballers at Joe Riley Ballpark. Tickets are FREE and so is parking! To reserve your tickets, simply text the word TICKETS to 843-571-1777 and then click on the link you receive back to fill out the form. Tickets will be sent to you by the email you submit so you can download them digitally to your phone for entry into the ballpark that night. There are no physical tickets for Riverdogs games. Arrive early in any Coastal t-shirt and watch our Youth Pastor, Jacob Bonetti, throw out the first pitch before the game starts.
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, August 4th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Many of you know by now that Heidi Smith, from our church, died on June 28th.  Her funeral service will be held at Coastal, tomorrow afternoon, Saturday, July 13th, at 4pm.  

Also, Teresa Spell’s Dad (Pastor Ryan Spell’s Grandfather), Merrill Hanna, passed away this past Sunday.  There will be a Graveside Service at Carolina Memorial on Rivers Ave. on Monday morning, July 15th, at 11am. Please continue to lift up in prayer these families and their loved ones.

The best week of the Summer for Kids is finally here!  If you’ve been out of the country or under a big rock, VBS starts this coming Monday-Friday night, July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm, 4 year olds – 5th Grade!  There will be a closing program on Friday night, July 12th, for children & parents with hotdogs, Kona Ice, jump castles, all outside from 6-7pm – all FREE!  And then at 7pm we’ll come inside for songs and a slide show!  This year’s theme is “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  If you haven’t already done so, PLEASE REGISTER YOUR CHILD ONLINE NOW. This really makes the check-in/registration process go so much smoother when VBS begins. Online Registration will be closed TONIGHT, Friday night, July 5th at 6pm.  After that, you will only be able to register at our campus each night in-person before VBS. So, the time is NOW – please register here: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/vbs/

Why am I personally so passionate about VBS?  Well, when I was a young kid, the Summer after my dad died, a friend invited me to VBS, and the following week, at Camp, I gave my life to Jesus and answered the call to be a Pastor.  My life was forever changed by a simple invitation from a friend, by that friend’s mom who picked me up each and every night and brought me to VBS, by a church willing to make the investment, by a bunch of volunteers who gave up their week to make an IMPACT in a young kid’s life.  

What about you?  What are you doing next week that’s going to potentially change a child’s life and change the world?  Will it require a sacrifice of your time?  Absolutely.  Will it mean that by the end of the week, you’ll be exhausted?  You bet.  Will you be unable to get the VBS songs out of your head for the rest of the year?  That’s a given!  But I make no apologies in challenging you to join us next week as a VBS Volunteer, because Jesus said that we find true life when we give our lives away.  I’m a product of a loving church and a loving, giving group of volunteers who sacrificed and made a difference in my life.  And now as a by-product of that sacrifice – so are you.  I promise you, you’ll be glad you served, and it will be one of the best experiences of your life!
   
So here’s what I’m asking you to do.  If you don’t already have a place to serve next week, please go to our website and sign up today.  You can also serve by staying after church this Sunday and help us stack and pack the chairs and move some furniture around the building to prep and decorate for VBS.  We’ll also need some volunteers to help set up the chairs on Thursday night after VBS to get ready for our Friday night Closing Program.  And then, of course, we’ll be tearing everything down and cleaning up on Friday night after VBS to get everything ready for Sunday.  There are still a few food needs for the week of VBS.  If you are able to help provide any of these last remaining items, go sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844A9A82DA4FE3-48645655-coastal#/.  If you have any questions about VBS, please reach out to Janet Rollins at janet@coastalcommunitychurch.org or Aly Huggins at aly@coastalcommunitychurch.org.

And finally, I just want to thank everyone for all the love you’ve shown me, your Pastor, this past week for my Birthday!  I am now 57 years old!  I am constantly overwhelmed by all the expressions of love shown to me and my family!  Thank you, thank you, thank you!  Coastal is not just a church that I attend or a job where I work.  It’s a family that I’m a part of!  I say it all the time, but I sincerely mean it – I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I am truly humbled by what we get to do together and that I am a part of it!

Diving Into the Friendship of God With You!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, July 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, July 5th;  Monday, July 8th;  Friday, July 12th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, July 6th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, July 9th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge). 
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, July 11th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, July 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, July 13th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs is quickly approaching! Join us Sunday, July 28th at 5pm for a game between the Charleston Riverdogs and the Annapolis Cannon Ballers at Joe Riley Ballpark. Tickets are FREE and so is parking! To reserve your tickets, simply text the word TICKETS to 843-571-1777 and then click on the link you receive back to fill out the form. Tickets will be sent to you by the email you submit so you can download them digitally to your phone for entry into the ballpark that night. There are no physical tickets for Riverdogs games. Arrive early in any Coastal t-shirt and watch our Youth Pastor, Jacob Bonetti, throw out the first pitch before the game starts.
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors or a Staff Member giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth not only for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. Even if you can’t personally serve next week during VBS because of work or you’re out of town, there is still something everyone can do to be a part of this LIFE changing experience in a very tangible way – through your generous giving!  While our VBS is completely FREE, it does cost something.  However, at Coastal we don’t consider it an expense – it’s an investment, in children and the Kingdom!  This year’s special VBS Offering will be going towards 2 things:  1. Our Peru Missions Team this Summer will be building 25 “Shanty Homes” at a cost of $25,000.  2. If/when we reach that goal, the remainder of the offering will go towards the purchase of a second 15 passenger van to take volunteers to outreach projects and to pick people up and bring them to church on Sundays.  So, pray about what God would have you give.  You can give this Sunday, each day during the week of VBS, or next Sunday.  Simply use the keyword “VBS.”

P.S. Our “Summer Reading” series begins Sunday, July 21st!  “Summer Reading” is where we as a Staff pick out 7 books worth reading over the Summer, and then each week we use the subject matter of one of the books as the subject of that week’s message.  You can see the books and the dates in the graphic above or on the insert on Sunday.  This Sunday, July 7th, we’ll have a small number of each book available for purchase at the church.  Or simply pick up the books yourself through Amazon and enjoy!  Remember, “leaders are readers!”

Another Summer of IMPACT is almost in the books!  I say almost, because there are still 3 more projects left – 2 today & 1 on Sunday (see below).  I know we say this every year, and we’ve said it over and over this month, but it really has been the BEST SUMMER OF IMPACT EVER!  The 58 projects in June saw a total of over 1000 volunteers and almost 3000 volunteer hours!  Please pray for all the seeds of love that were planted, that they will bear much fruit for years to come!  Much thanks goes to Chris Jones, our Pastor of Outreach here at Coastal.  As you can tell, much prayer, planning, organization, and preparation, have all gone into Summer of IMPACT.  And part of what makes Chris Jones such a good leader is that he knows that none of it would be possible without all of our great Project Leaders and the countless volunteers (YOU) who willingly, joyfully served all month long.  But, as you know, even as June comes to a close, serving never comes to a close at Coastal.  Serving and loving our community is not relegated to one day or even one month at Coastal.  It’s something we do all year round!  It’s a part of our culture.  In fact, you can now go to our website and already see and sign up for 185 outreach projects lined up from July 1st all the way through the end of the year!  That’s approximately 31 projects a month!  

Okay Coastal, VBS is now 1 week away from this Monday night: July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm each night, for children 4 years old – 5th Grade!  Are you ready for this?  We already have 266 children pre-registered!

There are 4 Big Needs for VBS:

1. Simply put, with as many kids as we will see, we need MORE VOLUNTEERS – YOU!  Please GO TO OUR WEBSITE AND SIGN UP TODAY!   You can also TEXT “vbsvolunteer” to 843-571-1777 to volunteer.  There is a place for you! 

2.   If you haven’t already done so, PLEASE REGISTER YOUR CHILD ONLINE.  This really makes the check-in/registration process go so much smoother when VBS begins.  Online Registration will be closed Friday night, July 5th at 6pm.  After that, you will only be able to register at our campus each night in-person before VBS.  So, the time is NOW, please register here: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/vbs/.  You can also TEXT “vbs2024” to 843-571-1777 to register your child.

3. FOOD!  At Coastal, we try to provide a mini meal for our VBS snacks since we meet during many families’ dinner time. If you are able to help provide any of these last remaining items, go here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844A9A82DA4FE3-48645655-coastal#/ to sign up.

4. MONEY!  This years VBS Offering will be going towards 2 things:  1. Our Peru Missions Team this Summer will be building 25 “Shanty Homes” at a cost of $25,000.  2. If/when we reach that goal, the remainder of the offering will go towards the purchase of a second 15 passenger van to take volunteers to outreach projects and to pick people up and bring them to church on Sundays.  You can begin giving now through the week of VBS.  Simply designate your offering “VBS.”

If you have any questions about VBS, please reach out to Janet Rollins at janet@coastalcommunitychurch.org or Aly Huggins at aly@coastalcommunitychurch.org. It really is the BEST week of the Summer!  I hope you’ll be a part of it!  I love YOU, I love being your Pastor, I love what we get to do together, and I can’t wait to see you and your friends this weekend!

Making An IMPACT With You!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Food Bank: TODAY, Friday, June 28th, 1pm-4pm.  The Lowcountry Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger in our community. Working with our community partners, this project will have us serving in the Charleston Regional Food Center. Please be sure to wear closed toe shoes. You must be over the age of 12 to volunteer and be accompanied by an adult if younger than 16. Meet at 2864 Azalea Drive, North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, June 28th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Community Blessing Box Resupply Project:  Our church helps to provide non-perishable food and hygiene items to 16 individual blessing boxes in our community.  On Sunday, June 30th, during all 3 services look for the Table in the Welcome Center and pick up to bag of food & supplies with an address for a Box.  This is a great project for families with children!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  Friday, July 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, July 5th;  Monday, July 8th;  Friday, July 12th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, July 6th.  We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, July 9th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge). 
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, July 11th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, July 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, July 13th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones.
   
2. We are planning our 2nd BEACH BAPTISM of the Summer out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, August 11th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
3. As a fun way to celebrate the Summer and our “At the Movies” series, we’d like to take any children from our church and their friends (and children at heart) to the 10am special showing of the new “Inside Out 2” movie at Citadel Mall Cinema, Tuesday, July 2nd – ON US (concessions on you)!  Doors open at 9:30am.  RSVP on your Connect Card or respond to this email with the number of tickets you’ll need.  We’ll meet you at the front door of the Theater on July 2nd!  Parents, if you’d like to read a good review of the movie, go to https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/inside-out-2-2024/
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors or a Staff Member giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth not only for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is TOMORROW, Saturday, June 29th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Our “Summer Reading” series begins Sunday, July 21st!  “Summer Reading” is where we as a Staff pick out 7 books worth reading over the Summer, and then each week we use the subject matter of one of the books as the subject of that week’s message.  You can see the books and the dates in the insert on Sunday.  This Sunday, June 30th, we’ll have a small number of each book available for purchase at the church.  Or simply pick up the books yourself through Amazon and enjoy!  Remember, “leaders are readers!”

 It was another awesome day at Coastal this past Sunday!  Evidently, our men love a clean car, because they loved the “Magic Cleaner Gel” that we gave away.  And evidently, our people love inviting their friends to church – we had 28 1st & 2nd Time Guest Connect Cards turned in, and we gave away 64 movie tickets!  Our in-person attendance was 1125 people (another 723 online)!  Oh, and between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day we dedicated 43 children!  Wow!  Keep it up Coastal – keep inviting and bringing your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors (and keep having those babies – haha)!

Next week is the last full week of Summer of IMPACT.  There are still plenty of opportunities left to serve during this final week of SOI.  Don’t let this last week go by without YOU being a part of it.  Go to our website, check out the remaining projects, and sign up today!  But, as you know, even as June comes to a close, serving never comes to a close at Coastal.  In fact, when you signed up to serve for SOI, you probably noticed that we’ve got projects lined up all the way through the end of the year!!  

VBS is now 2 weeks away from this Monday night: July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm each night, for children 4 years old – 5th Grade!  We already have 228 children pre-registered!  There are 4 Big Needs:

1. Simply put, we need MORE VOLUNTEERS – YOU!  To pull off a VBS like we do at Coastal, reaching around 300 children, it requires A LOT of people.  Please GO TO OUR WEBSITE AND SIGN UP TODAY!   You can also TEXT “vbsvolunteer” to 843-571-1777 to volunteer.  There is a place for you! 

2.   If you haven’t already done so, PLEASE REGISTER YOUR CHILD ONLINE.  This really makes the check-in/registration process go so much smoother when VBS begins.  Online Registration will be closed Friday night, July 5th at 6pm.  After that, you will only be able to register at our campus each night in-person before VBS.  So, the time is NOW, please register here: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/vbs/.  You can also TEXT “vbs2024” to 843-571-1777 to register your child.

3. FOOD!  At Coastal, we try to provide a mini meal for our VBS snacks since we meet during many families’ dinner time. If you are able to help provide any of these last remaining items, go here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0844a9a82da4fe3-coastal1#/ to sign up.

4. MONEY!  This years VBS Offering will be going towards 2 things:  1. Our Peru Missions Team this Summer will be building 25 “Shanty Homes” at a cost of $25,000.  2. If/when we reach that goal, the remainder of the offering will go towards the purchase of a second 15 passenger van to take volunteers to outreach projects and to pick people up and bring them to church on Sundays.  You can begin giving now through the week of VBS.  Simply designate your offering “VBS.”

If you have any questions about VBS, please reach out to Janet Rollins at janet@coastalcommunitychurch.org or Aly Huggins at aly@coastalcommunitychurch.org. It really is the BEST week of the Summer!  I hope you’ll be a part of it!  I love YOU, I love being your Pastor, I love what we get to do together, and I can’t wait to see you and your friends this weekend!

Making An IMPACT With You!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, June 21st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, June 21st, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Bags:  TODAY, Friday, June 21st, 7-8pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the resident of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Sleep In Heavenly Peace Build-A-Bed Project:  We will be building and assembling beds for children in need in the Charleston Community.  Saturday, June 22nd, 9am-1pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Landmarks for Families (CYD) Tailgate: Monday, June 24th, 10am-2pm.  Landmarks for Families is empowering our community’s children and families with safe environments, essential resources and educational and emotional supports they need to succeed. We’re sending a tailgating team to provide a tailgate lunch to the youth who are working to overcome a host of different challenges. Not only is this an opportunity to provide a hot meal but also encourage young people who need our love and support.
   Sleep In Heavenly Peace Bed Delivery: Monday, June 24th, 9am-12noon and Wednesday, June 26th, 5pm-8pm.  We’ll be delivering beds from our Saturday Bed Build to children all over Charleston without beds.
   Patriot Villas Workday:  Tuesday, June 25th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Wednesday, June 26th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Sewing Project:  Wednesday, June 26th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet in the Chapel.
   Lowcountry Food Bank: Thursday, June 27th, 10am-1pm.  The Lowcountry Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger in our community. Working with our community partners, this project will have us serving in the Charleston Regional Food Center. Please be sure to wear closed toe shoes. You must be over the age of 12 to volunteer and be accompanied by an adult if younger than 16. Meet at 2864 Azalea Drive, North Charleston.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, June 27th, 11:30am-1pm.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, June 23rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
3. As a fun way to celebrate the Summer and our “At the Movies” series, we’d like to take any children from our church and their friends (and children at heart) to the 10am special showing of the new “Inside Out 2” movie at Citadel Mall Cinema, Tuesday, July 2nd – ON US (concessions on you)!  Doors open at 9:30am.  RSVP on your Connect Card or respond to this email with the number of tickets you’ll need.  We’ll meet you at the front door of the Theater on July 2nd!  Parents, if you’d like to read a good review of the movie, go to https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/inside-out-2-2024/
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors or a Staff Member giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth not only for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, June 29th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. It is with our deepest sympathies that I want to let you know that Ted Bernados died Tuesday morning at MUSC.  Ted was the father of Prisca Denton.  Prisca and her family have been a part of the Coastal family for over 30 years.  Most recently, Ted was a part of our Chair Volleyball Group.  The Funeral Services for Ted will be at Coastal’s auditorium tomorrow, Saturday, June 22nd:  Visitation – 12noon;  Service – 1pm;  Graveside immediately following service at Carolina Memorial in North Charleston. 

First of all, before I jump into this Sunday and Father’s Day, let me just say that this past Sunday was truly AMAZING!  We had a great kickoff to our “At the Movies” series with 1122 people in person and another 789 people online.  We had lots and lots of guests, gave away lots of movie tickets, and ate A LOT of popcorn!  But the best part of last week was definitely Sunday afternoon at Folly Beach where WE BAPTIZED 77 PEOPLE!!  That’s the most people we’ve ever baptized at any one time, and a ton of people came out early, enjoyed time at the beach, and celebrated with us!  It was truly miraculous – something I will never take for granted or never forget!

I know I say this every year (because it’s true), but this has already been our BEST SUMMER OF IMPACT EVER!  The energy, excitement, and enthusiasm with all the different projects has been so high you can almost reach out and touch it!  Each and every project has gone so well – great leaders, lots of volunteers, and lots of NEW volunteers!  And we are just past the mid-way point.  There are still lots of opportunities left.  Go to our website, check out the remaining projects, and sign up today!

One thing for you to consider about Summer of IMPACT:  it is your generous, consistent giving that enables our church to do all that we do – including Summer of IMPACT.  This month alone we’re putting on 10 different Tailgate Parties, feeding literally hundreds and hundreds of people in our community.  Our church gladly buys all the food and supplies for these and other projects.  But when I say the church, keep in mind that means YOU.  YOU are the church.  People tend to travel and go on vacations over the Summer, which is great (Janet and I are looking forward to getting away later this Summer).  Just remember that the Ministry and IMPACT of Coastal continues whether you’re here on a Sunday or not.  And everything we do is made possible by your consistent, generous giving.  You can give through our website or simply text “GIVE” to 843-571-1777.

This Sunday is FATHER’S DAY!  And yes, it’s going to be AWESOME!  There will be FREE Kona Ice for everyone, Baby/Child Dedication, a gift for all the guys, and some fun giveaways (yes, probably some MEAT) at the end of each service!  Don’t miss it!  Invite and bring your friends!  And remember, every 1st time guest (and the person who invited them – YOU) gets a FREE Movie Ticket to Citadel Mall Theater during our entire “At the Movies” series!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you and your friends over the weekend!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   NHC-Magwood Nursing Facility: Friday, June 14th, 9am-11am.  Bring your family and let’s love on the residents of NHC nursing home!  We will bring them some snacks, music, and fun!  Meet at 2230 Ashley Crossing Dr.
   Hollywood Clothing Distribution:  Saturday, June 15th, 8am-11am.  We’re traveling to Hollywood to help distribute clothing to those in need! If you’ve ever wanted to help take part in what Coastal’s clothing ministry is doing in the more rural areas of Charleston, then come and make an impact with us!  Meet at Highway 165 Town of Hollywood.
   First Responder Appreciation:  Monday, June 17th, 9am-11am.  We’re hosting a Firefighter/EMS appreciation event right here at Coastal! Come serve up some coffee, doughnuts, and bagels as we tell them thank you for serving us!
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, June 18th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, June 19th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Sewing Project:  Wednesday, June 19th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet in the Chapel.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, June 20th, 6-8:15pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, June 21st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, June 21st, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Bags:  On Friday, June 21st, 7-8pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the resident of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Sleep In Heavenly Peace Build-A-Bed Project:  We will be building and assembling beds for children in need in the Charleston Community.  Saturday, June 22nd, 9am-1pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, June 23rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – THIS COMING Wednesday night, June 19th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. This Fall, when we come back to the Sermon on the Mount, we decided to make our sermon series a church wide Spiritual Growth Campaign.  What’s that you ask?  Well, it’s church-wide in the sense that we want to involve everyone at our church at every level:  everyone hearing the same Sunday morning messages corporately, all of our LIFE Groups studying the same material in small groups of 10-15 people, and a daily devotional for everyone’s individual quiet time.  Together, we’ll all be studying, discussing, learning, praying, and striving to live out the greatest teaching we have from Jesus!  I truly believe that this Fall is going to continue to usher in a season of tremendous spiritual growth at our church.  For so many people, it’s going to be one of those turning point moments in their life.
   
   How can you help?  We’re looking for LIFE Group Leaders!  Last semester we had 58 Groups.  This coming Fall we need 75+ Groups!  In many ways, for our Leaders, this will be a little bit easier of a semester.  We’re ALL going to be doing the same study, so you don’t have to fret about what to choose.  And WE are going to be providing the teaching material.  In fact, we’re going to record our Pastors or a Staff Member giving a 10-15 minute teaching for each week’s lesson.  We’ll also provide all the Small Group questions with your own discussion guide.  All you have to do is facilitate the meeting.  We’re also going to stress/recommend Groups of 10-15 people meeting in homes and as much as possible, moving away from the church building.  Again, we really believe this is going to be a tremendous season of spiritual growth not only for our church!  If you are interested in hosting, assisting, or leading a LIFE Group, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org, or let us know on your Connect Card on Sunday.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, June 29th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. At Coastal, we try to provide a “mini meal” for our VBS snacks since we meet during many families’ dinner time.  If you are able to help provide any of these food items, go here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844A9A82DA4FE3-48645655-coastal#/ to sign up. If you are unable to prepare or shop for food, but would like to donate towards our food items, designate “VBS” with your giving.

WOW!  WOW!  WOW!  What an amazing kick off to “Summer of IMPACT” – so many Volunteers, such great Leaders, so many lives touched and seeds planted!  On Saturday Serve alone, this past Saturday, we had 222 Volunteers tackle 11 different projects!  But we’re just getting started!  There’s still plenty of different projects left.  Simply click on this link: Summer of IMPACT, take a look at all the different opportunities, find the project(s) right for you, and then sign up today!

I know I say this a lot – but don’t miss this Sunday at Coastal!  We’re kicking off a favorite sermon series tradition here at Coastal – “At the Movies!”  We’ve been doing this series for 15 years.  Collectively, more guests come to this series than any other!  People LOVE movies!  So leverage that, use our Invite Cards, microwave popcorn invitations, and invite and bring your friends to church.  ALL 1st Time Guests will receive FREE Movie Tickets to Citadel Mall Theater (and the person who invited them – YOU) throughout the entire series.  There will be popcorn, movie trailers, and cool giveaways!  Like I said, “DON’T MISS THIS SUNDAY & BRING A FRIEND!”  This year’s series theme is “Childhood Favorites.”  Each of our Pastors will be sharing their favorite childhood movie and bringing a powerful message straight from God’s Word.

As our church continues to grow, don’t forget to please park over at Oakland Elementary School (down the first drive past the Greenway, on the right, before you get to our church).  It makes for a much easier transition between services.  Also, we are always in need of Sunday morning volunteers, especially 1st Impressions & Coastal Kidz!  If you served in the past or during a big day like Easter – we need you!  Reach back out to your Ministry Leader, and make their day by volunteering to serve.  If you’ve never volunteered before – there is a place for YOU!  Respond to this email or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.

And finally, hopefully by now you’ve heard about our Beach Baptism Service this Sunday, June 9th, 5pm at Folly Beach County Park (see details below).  Are you ready for this?  Right now we have 82 people confirmed getting Baptized!  WOW!  That just blows me away!  God is moving in a powerful way at our church!  Make sure you’re a part of it!  If Baptism is your next step, what are you waiting on?  And don’t let anything get in the way of witnessing this miracle of God on Sunday out at the Beach!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you over the weekend!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, June 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, June 7th; Wednesday, June 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Oakland Elementary School 5th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Oakland’s Graduation on TODAY, Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, June 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, June 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   Community Blessing Box Resupply Project:  Our church helps to provide non-perishable food and hygiene items to 16 individual blessing boxes in our community.  On Sunday, June 9th, during all 3 services look for the Table in the Welcome Center and pick up to bag of food & supplies with an address for a Box.  This is a great project for families with children!
   Coastal Beach Baptism Serve Team:  On Sunday, June 9th, 3:45pm-6pm be a part of the Team that serves, greets, and prepares everything for our Beach Baptism at Folly Beach.  Meet at Folly Beach County Park. 
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, June 11th, 8am-12:30pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Sewing Project:  Wednesday, June 12th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet in the Chapel.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, June 13th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Charleston Vets Potluck:  On Thursday, June 13th, 6pm-8:30pm, join us as we prepare a home-cooked meal for the veterans out at Charleston Vets.
   NHC-Magwood Nursing Facility: Friday, June 14th, 9am-11am.  Bring your family and let’s love on the residents of NHC nursing home!  We will bring them some snacks, music, and fun!  Meet at 2230 Ashley Crossing Dr.
   Hollywood Clothing Distribution:  Saturday, June 15th, 8am-11am.  We’re traveling to Hollywood to help distribute clothing to those in need! If you’ve ever wanted to help take part in what Coastal’s clothing ministry is doing in the more rural areas of Charleston, then come and make an impact with us!  Meet at Highway 165 Town of Hollywood.
   First Responder Appreciation:  Monday, June 17th, 9am-11am.  We’re hosting a Firefighter/EMS appreciation event right here at Coastal! Come serve up some coffee, doughnuts, and bagels as we tell them thank you for serving us!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, June 23rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, June 19th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.  
   
   Bring your whole family, come out early, and have some fun!  You do have to pay for parking at the park.  If you have a Gold Pass, the parking is free.  The Baptism Service will start right at 5pm.  We’ll be down at the beach, closest to the park entrance side.  Look for the Coastal Box Truck & Tent checking people in and the Coastal flag on the beach.  Traffic can be heavy on Folly Road, so make sure you leave yourself plenty of time.  Can’t wait to see everyone on Sunday! We also have a Beach Baptism scheduled for the end of the Summer on Sunday, August, 11th.
   
5. Don’t miss Father’s Day this year at Coastal, Sunday, June 16th!  We’ll have a fun gift for all the men, giveaways at the end of each service, and FREE Kona Ice.  We’re also having another Baby/Child Dedication on Father’s Day.  If you would like your family to participate, sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday OR sign up online. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. At Coastal, we try to provide a “mini meal” for our VBS snacks since we meet during many families’ dinner time.  If you are able to help provide any of these food items, go here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844A9A82DA4FE3-48645655-coastal#/ to sign up. If you are unable to prepare or shop for food, but would like to donate towards our food items, designate “VBS” with your giving.

This Saturday (TOMORROW), marks the beginning of  “Summer of IMPACT” with something we call Saturday Serve!  I hope you’ll join us – the June Saturday Serve is basically a big pep rally for Summer of IMPACT!  If you’re unfamiliar with Saturday Serve, it’s really the backbone of all of our serving here at Coastal and something we’ve been doing for over 7 years now on the first Saturday of every month.  We meet at the church at 8:30am, hear a “pitch” from the leaders of the different projects, pray, and then you pick what you want to do, and go serve.  It’s that simple and that easy!  All of  the different projects are well led, well organized, and A LOT OF FUN!  We would love to see you in the morning!  We even have a new t-shirt for all Summer of IMPACT 2024 Volunteers that you can pick up tomorrow.  Go to our website and sign up for Saturday Serve and any of our 58 different projects this month!  Help us be the hands and feet of Jesus right here in our own community!  

Also, don’t forget that we kick-off “AT THE MOVIES” NEXT Sunday, June 9th!  “At the Movies” is a sermon series where we take current or popular movies and use them as a hook to dig into God’s Word and boldly proclaim truth.  ALL 1st Time Guests will receive FREE Movie Tickets to Citadel Mall Theater (and the person who invited them – YOU) throughout the entire series.  There will be popcorn, movie trailers, and cool giveaways!  Make sure you pick up the microwave popcorn invite tool this weekend to invite your friends to the series.  As a part of the series, we’re also taking anyone who is available to see a FREE children’s movie (TBD) on Tuesday, July 2nd, 10am at the Citadel Mall Theater!

I want to give you an EXCITING update on our Beach Baptism, also NEXT Sunday, June 9th (see all the info below).  The most people we have ever Baptized at any one time at Coastal was last year’s Beach Baptism service with 46 people getting Baptized.  Guess how many people are now confirmed to get Baptized on Sunday, June 9th, 5pm at Folly Beach County Park?  Are you ready for this?!  Drumroll please. . . . . . 72 PEOPLE! Is that awesome or what?  God is definitely doing something exciting at Coastal right now!  I remember the days when we had less than 72 people at church!  And who knows where that number will end up at?  If you would like to join us in getting Baptized at the Beach, go to our website and sign up today! Spread the word, share with everyone you know what God is up to at Coastal, and come out early to the Beach that day and celebrate with us!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do TOGETHER!  And I can’t wait to see you over the weekend!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, May 31st, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, June 1st.  This Saturday Serve also serves as the kick-off of Summer of IMPACT!  There will be 11 different projects!   We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Blood Drive:  TOMORROW, Saturday, June 1st, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.
   NHC-Magwood Nursing Facility: This Sunday, June 2nd, 2-4pm.  Bring your family and let’s love on the residents of NHC nursing home!  We will bring them some snacks, music, and fun!  Meet at 2230 Ashley Crossing Dr.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, June 3rd;  Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island. 
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Monday, June 3rd, 12pm-3pm.
   Patriot Villas Workday:  Tuesday, June 4th, 5-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts at Charleston Vets:  Wednesday, June 5th, 6am-9am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Orange Grove 8th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Orange Grove’s Graduation on Wednesday, June 5th, 9:30am-11:30am.
   Carolina Voyager 8th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Carolina Voyager’s Graduation on Wednesday, June 5th, 5pm-6pm.
   Sewing Project:  Wednesday, June 5th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet in the Chapel.
   VBS Prep:  Thursday, June 6th, 6pm-8pm.  Come help prep decorations and various supplies for this year’s Vacation Bible School!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, June 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Oakland Elementary School 5th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Oakland’s Graduation on Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, June 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, June 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, June 23rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, June 19th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.  We also have a Beach Baptism scheduled for the end of the Summer on Sunday, August, 11th.
5. Don’t miss Father’s Day this year at Coastal, Sunday, June 16th!  We’ll have a fun gift for all the men, giveaways at the end of each service, and FREE Kona Ice.  We’re also having another Baby/Child Dedication on Father’s Day.  If you would like your family to participate, sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday OR sign up online. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. At Coastal, we try to provide a “mini meal” for our VBS snacks since we meet during many families’ dinner time.  If you are able to help provide any of these food items, go here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844A9A82DA4FE3-48645655-coastal#/ to sign up. If you are unable to prepare or shop for food, but would like to donate towards our food items, designate “VBS” with your giving.

Typically, Memorial Weekend officially marks the end of the school year and the beginning of Summer.  But no matter when you or your child gets out of school this year, the month of June always means one thing at Coastal – Summer of IMPACT!  That’s right, and June 1st is NEXT SATURDAY!  Now if you are fairly new to Coastal or you’ve been in hibernation, Summer of IMPACT is a month-long effort where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service.  It’s basically what we do all throughout the year, but MULTIPLIED during the month of June (58 different projects)!  There is something for everyone (including children).  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month. You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that easy.  Like everything we do at Coastal, each outreach project has a leader and each project is well-organized and fully funded.

In fact, the first week alone (7 days) of Summer of IMPACT there are 23 different projects to choose from!  10 of those project will be on Saturday Serve, Saturday June 1st, 8:30am at the church!  Historically, that Saturday Serve is one of the biggest of the year – kind of a kick-off/pep rally for Summer of IMPACT!  You’re not going to want to miss it!  We even have a new t-shirt (see picture above) for SOI 2024 that we’ll start giving out on June 1st at Saturday Serve!

So, it’s time to stop talking about it, and start doing it!  Here’s what I am asking you to do RIGHT NOW:

Click on this link: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/

Scroll down and click on the big blue, “CLICK HERE TO SERVE” button.  That will take you directly to the sign up/registration page.  Take a look at all the opportunities.  Find the projects right for you and then sign up!  You can sign up for as many opportunities as you want directly from our website.  And by the way, you don’t even have to call Coastal your home to participate! Invite and bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to serve!  If you are looking to make an IMPACT in our community, if you want to make a difference this Summer, this is the way to do it!  Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!   If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do TOGETHER!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday! 

Making An IMPACT With YOU!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, May 31st, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, June 1st.  This Saturday Serve also serves as the kick-off of Summer of IMPACT!  There will be 10 different projects!   We meet in the Auditorium at 8:30am, Project Leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we go out and serve!
   Blood Drive:  Saturday, June 1st, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.
   NHC-Magwood Nursing Facility: Sunday, June 2nd, 2-4pm.  Bring your family and let’s love on the residents of NHC nursing home!  We will bring them some snacks, music, and fun!  Meet at 2230 Ashley Crossing Dr.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, June 3rd;  Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island. 
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Monday, June 3rd, 12pm-3pm.
   Patriot Villas Workday:  Tuesday, June 4th, 5-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts at Charleston Vets:  Wednesday, June 5th, 6am-9am.  Meet at Coastal
   Orange Grove 8th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Orange Grove’s Graduation on Wednesday, June 5th, 9:30am-11:30am.
   Carolina Voyager 8th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Carolina Voyager’s Graduation on Wednesday, June 5th, 5pm-6pm.
   Sewing Project:  Wednesday, June 5th, 5pm-8pm.  Meet in the Chapel.
   VBS Prep:  Thursday, June 6th, 6pm-8pm.  Come help prep decorations and various supplies for this year’s Vacation Bible School!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, June 7th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Oakland Elementary School 5th Grade Graduation:  Coastal is hosting Oakland’s Graduation on Friday, June 7th, 9:30am-11:30am.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, June 8th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   2nd Saturday/2nd Meal: Saturday, June 8th, 9am-12noon.  Come serve with us as we prepare a hot meal in the Coastal kitchen and then deliver those meals to one of our awesome ministry partners – organizations like Charleston Vets, S.C. Strong, Brighton Place, Joseph Floyd Manor and more!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. On Sunday, June 9th, we kick off one of our favorite sermon series traditions here at Coastal – “AT THE MOVIES”!  This year’s theme for the movies is “Childhood Favorites” (hence, the “retro” feel for this year’s graphic).  As always, there will be popcorn, movie trailers, and cool giveaways!  Make sure you pick up the microwave popcorn invite tool this weekend to invite your friends to the series.  ALL 1st Time Guests (and the person who invited them – YOU) will receive a FREE Movie Ticket to Citadel Mall Theater throughout the entire series!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, June 19th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.  We also have a Beach Baptism scheduled for the end of the Summer on Sunday, August, 11th.
   
5. Don’t miss Father’s Day this year at Coastal, Sunday, June 16th!  We’ll have a fun gift for all the men, giveaways at the end of each service, and FREE Kona Ice.  We’re also having another Baby/Child Dedication on Father’s Day.  If you would like your family to participate, sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday OR sign up online. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

Wow – we had an amazing Mother’s Day this past Sunday at Coastal with 1400 people in attendance (and another 891 online)!  We had 32 children participate in Baby/Child Dedication over our 3 services (the most ever)!  By the way, we have another Baby/Child Dedication coming up on Father’s Day, June 16th.  You can go to this link and sign up online or you can sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Between the Photo Booth, the zipper bag/gift card, Kona Ice, the Give-aways at the end of each service, and the service itself – I hope every woman walked out of Coastal on Sunday feeling encouraged and loved!

On Sunday, June 9th, we kick off one of our favorite sermon series traditions here at Coastal – “AT THE MOVIES”!  In fact, this is our 15th year doing the series!  If you’re new to Coastal, don’t worry, we’re not preaching from the movies themselves.  We simply use them as a hook to talk about spiritual truth straight from God’s Word.  This year’s theme for the movies is “Childhood Favorites” (hence, the “retro” feel for this year’s graphic).  So, each one of our Pastors will be using a favorite movie from their childhood.  Just out of curiosity – what were some of your favorite childhood movies?  Reply to this email and let me know!  As always, there will be popcorn, movie trailers, and cool giveaways!  Make sure you pick up the microwave popcorn invite tool this weekend to invite your friends to the series.  ALL 1st Time Guests (and the person who invited them – YOU) will receive a FREE Movie Ticket to Citadel Mall Theater throughout the entire series!  We’ll also be taking the kids (and anyone who wants to come) to a FREE movie over the Summer! We’re still working out the details, but we’ll let you know soon.  So mark Sunday, June 9th on your calendar, and start praying about who you will be inviting and bringing to church during the series! 

If you and your family haven’t yet signed up for multiple projects for  Summer of IMPACT, it’s time to do so!  And I seriously encourage you to spread the word with your friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers, especially those people in your life who don’t have a church home or who aren’t even believers.  Why?  Because God created everyone with the desire to be a part of something bigger than yourself and to make a difference.  And believe it or not, most churches don’t have a very good reputation for serving and loving their communities unconditionally.  So leverage Summer of IMPACT as a way to include those who might not darken the door of a church, but would be willing to volunteer in the community.  Don’t you see?  Not only is Summer of IMPACT a great opportunity to serve and bless our community and you – but it is also an opportunity for outreach with your friends!  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do TOGETHER!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas – Today, Friday, May 17th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, May 21st, 12pm-3pm.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, May 22nd, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and
   help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, May 23rd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, May 24th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, May 24th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. RIVERDOGS GAME UPDATE:  We have rescheduled our Coastal Day at the RiverDogs Game for Sunday, July 28th at 5pm.  All tickets will need to be requested by texting the word “tickets” to 843-571-1777 and then filling out the form on the link you receive in return. No ticket requests from the previous game are being held. You must RE-request the number of tickets you would like.
   
3. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or do you know someone who is?  Join one of the FREE special GriefShare sessions THIS Monday, May 20th at 2pm or 6pm at Coastal.  Register at www.GriefShare.org or contact Freeda (540-903-5030) or Sue (616-443-6553).
   
4. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen one of our Beach Baptism videos, watch the one above (make sure you have a box of tissues nearby)!  We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.  We also have a Beach Baptism scheduled for the end of the Summer on Sunday, August, 11th.
   
5. One of the things we get asked A LOT is, “When are we going to have a Coastal Store?  Are those hoodies or zip ups that I see the Staff wearing available to buy?”  Well, guess what? Coastal now has an ONLINE STOREwith t-shirts, hats, and other merch available for purchase!  Throughout the year, more seasonal items will be added.  For example, be on the lookout for a Nike Polo for the Summer!  During the Fall, we’ll add hoodies and zip ups!  If you have any suggestions, please let us know.

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

In the first picture above I’m holding one of the many gifts for all the Teachers & Staff over at Oakland Elementary School for Teacher Appreciation this week – ICED COFFEE!  We also showered them with movie tickets, gift cards, candy, handwritten notes, and lots and LOTS of FOOD!  In fact, while many of you are reading this, we’ll be serving them shrimp & grits for breakfast with Janet’s homemade cheddar cheese biscuits (an annual tradition).  I know I say this all the time, but it’s true – all of this is made possible through your consistent, faithful generosity!  

In fact, that’s true of ALL the Outreach that our church does.  We couldn’t do it without YOU!  And speaking of Outreach & YOU, it’s time for YOU to start signing up for Summer of IMPACT!  If you are fairly new to Coastal, Summer of IMPACT is a month-long effort (the entire month of June) where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service.  It’s basically what we do all throughout the year, but MULTIPLIED during the month of June!  There is something for everyone (including children).  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month. You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that easy.  Every project has a leader and every project is well-organized. 

So here’s what I am asking you to do RIGHT NOW:

Click on this link: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/

Take a look at all the opportunities. Find the project(s) right for you and then sign up!  You can sign up for as many opportunities as you want directly from our website.  And by the way, you don’t even have to call Coastal your home to participate! Invite and bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to serve!  If you are looking to make an IMPACT in our community, this is the way to do it!  And if you sign up for a SOI Project, we have a little gift for you at church on Sunday – a Coastal Box Truck Air Freshener!  But you only get one if you sign up!

One last thing, and it also has to do with money, making an IMPACT, and your generosity.  Jessica & Jon Zawko, who led our Financial Peace University LIFE Group this past semester, shared some exciting news with me.  Their LIFE Group (about 12 people who reported) paid off $109,420 in personal debt this semester!  They also put away $19,200 in savings!  Is that AWESOME or what?  I’m so proud of them!  You say, “Okay Pastor Chris, I see the money and making an IMPACT part, but what does that have to do with generosity?”  Well, did you know that we purchased a Ramsey Site License and all of the Financial Peace University resources are provided to you for FREE (we also did that for two high schools here in Charleston)?  That’s right!  People are hurting and struggling with their finances today, and we want to provide real help and resources.  Simply go to our Resources page on our website and look for Financial Tools.  It will take you to a sign up page with our passcode.  Again, ALL of that could not be done without YOU and your generous, consistent giving to our church!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do TOGETHER!  And I can’t wait to see you over the weekend (Double Tailgate & Sunday morning)! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, May 10th & Monday, May 13th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, May 10th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, May 11th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, May 14th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, May 15th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, May 16th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, May 17th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. RIVERDOGS GAME UPDATE:  We have rescheduled our Coastal Day at the RiverDogs Game for Sunday, July 28th at 5pm.  All tickets will need to be requested by texting the word “tickets” to 843-571-1777 and then filling out the form on the link you receive in return. No ticket requests from the previous game are being held. You must RE-request the number of tickets you would like.
   
3. This Sunday, May 12th, is Mother’s Day!  There will be fun giveaways at the end of each service, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, Baby/Child Dedication, and a special gift for all women!  Pull out all the stops and invite and bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers (pick up some of our Invite Cards)!  We’re even adding extra chairs to make room for everyone!  Come early, park far away, and go out of your way to make our guests feel welcome and at home.  A BIG DAY also means extra Volunteers!  Talk to your LIFE Team Leader, go to Planning Center, and sign up today! 
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
5. One of the things we get asked A LOT is, “When are we going to have a Coastal Store?  Are those hoodies or zip ups that I see the Staff wearing available to buy?”  Well, guess what? Coastal now has an ONLINE STOREwith t-shirts, hats, and other merch available for purchase!  Throughout the year, more seasonal items will be added.  For example, be on the lookout for a Nike Polo for the Summer!  During the Fall, we’ll add hoodies and zip ups!  If you have any suggestions, please let us know.  In fact, the 10th person in my inbox to reply to this email that this is a great idea, will receive a $25 credit to be used in our online store!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or do you know someone who is?  Join one of the FREE special GriefShare sessions on Monday, May 20th at 2pm or 6pm at Coastal.  Register at www.GriefShare.org or contact Freeda (540-903-5030) or Sue (616-443-6553).

I know I say this all the time, but I’m really excited about so many things coming up in the life of our church!  First of all, next week is Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week over at Oakland Elementary School!  Our church has something special planned each day next week – gifts, treats, and LOTS OF FOOD!  It’s our way to celebrate and serve the heroes right across the street from our church.  And all of it is made possible through your consistent, faithful generosity!

And then of course, we’ve got Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 12th!  Mother’s Day is always a “BIG DAY” at our church!  And when I say, “BIG DAY,” you should instinctively know what that means.  It means you pull out all the stops and invite and bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers (pick up some of our Invite Cards)!  We’re even adding extra chairs to make room for everyone!  It means you come early, park far away, and go out of your way to make our guests feel welcome and at home.  A BIG DAY also means, “all hands on deck” for our Volunteers!  If you’re already serving on a LIFE Team, talk to your LIFE Team Leader, go to Planning Center, and sign up today!  If you’re not serving, a big day like Mother’s Day is a perfect time to start.  Sign up on our website today or on your Connect Card this Sunday! It really IS going to be a fun day!  We have a special gift for all women (not just moms), a fun giveaway at the end of each service, a photo booth, Baby/Child Dedication during each service, and FREE Kona Ice for everyone!

That leads us right into June where we’ve got SUMMER OF IMPACT (the entire month of June – see below), “At the Movies” Sermon Series (starts June 9th), our Beach Baptism (June 9th – see below), Father’s Day (June 16th), Coastal Night of Worship (June 19th), and CSM Summer Camp(June 25-29).  WHEW!!  And then, of course, there is VBS and a Missions Trip to Peru!  But that’s July and another Friday 5!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, May 3rd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, May 3rd;  Monday, May 6th;  Friday, May 10th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, May 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, May 9th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, May 10th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, May 11th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. RIVERDOGS GAME UPDATE:  We have rescheduled our Coastal Day at the RiverDogs Game for Sunday, July 28th at 5pm.  All tickets will need to be requested by texting the word “tickets” to 843-571-1777 and then filling out the form on the link you receive in return. No ticket requests from the previous game are being held. You must RE-request the number of tickets you would like.
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
5. Summer of IMPACT is now less than a month away!  If you are fairly new to Coastal, Summer of IMPACT is a month-long effort (the entire month of June) where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service.  It’s basically what we do all throughout the year, but MULTIPLIED during the month of June (58 different projects)!  There is something for everyone (including children).  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month. You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that easy.  Every project has a leader and every project is well-organized. 
   
   So here’s what I am asking you to do RIGHT NOW:
   Click on this link: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/
   
   Take a look at all the opportunities. Find the project(s) right for you and then sign up! You can sign up for as many opportunities as you want directly from our website.  And by the way, you don’t even have to call Coastal your home to participate! Invite and bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to serve!  If you are looking to make an IMPACT in our community, this is the way to do it!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

There is no doubt that many, many people today are hurting, hopeless, and afraid.  So Coastal, let’s DO something about it!  If you want to make a difference, if you want to change the world, it’s not going to happen by crafting the most shared or liked social media post.  Let me tell you where we can ALL start – SUMMER OF IMPACT!  For those of you who are new to Coastal, Summer of IMPACT is all about serving and loving our community – where we live, work, parent, and play.  It’s a month long emphasis that kicks off every Summer at Coastal.  Honestly, it’s what we do all year long, just exponentially during the month of June.  And  guess what?!  SIGN UPS ARE NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN!!!!!

Summer of IMPACT is where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service. Given the 58 DIFFERENT SERVING OPPORTUNITIES, there is literally something for everyone.  Nearly every serving opportunity is family friendly.  We’ll be serving veterans, the homeless, the elderly & sick, children in crisis, those who struggle with drug & alcohol addictions and more.  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month.  You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that simple!  Every project has a leader and every project is well-organized.  

Click on this link: https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/.  Take a look at all the opportunities.  Find the projects that are right for you and sign up today! 

If you are looking to make an IMPACT in our community, if you want to “be” the church, this is the way to do it!  I truly believe that everyone who calls Coastal home can sign up for at least one event.  But here’s what I would also encourage you to do – invite friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers to join you!  You don’t have to be a member of Coastal to participate.  And get this, you don’t even have to be a believer to participate!  Truthfully, I think this is the best way we have to show people what a difference Jesus truly makes in our lives.

So one last time – EVERYONE, GO TO THIS LINK AND SIGN UP TODAY!!
https://coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions/

If you have any questions about Summer of IMPACT and any of the projects, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones – (843) 870-4613.

Sure, these are dark and difficult times.  But it’s times like these where the light shines the brightest!  Coastal, that’s you and me!  Let’s be the light for all the world to see!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, April 26th;  Friday, May 10th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, April 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, May 3rd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, May 3rd;  Monday, May 6th;  Friday, May 10th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, May 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, May 9th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, May 11th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants (ages 16-26) a glimpse into life in ministry. Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
5. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or do you know someone who is?  Join one of the FREE special GriefShare sessions on Monday, May 20th at 2pm or 6pm at Coastal.  Register at www.GriefShare.org or contact Freeda (540-903-5030) or Sue (616-443-6553).

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

People are searching.  Call it whatever you want, but people are searching for fulfillment, for meaning, for significance.  They want to be happy.  The problem is they are searching for it in all the wrong places, and it’s leaving them empty.  They’re chasing after “the good life.”  But what they really want, what they really need, whether they recognize it or not, is the life that Jesus offers – the BLESSED life!  The good news is that God wants to bless your life – but not in the way the world understands blessing.  

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus’ most famous teaching, He tells us how to live the life that God blesses.  In fact, He begins His teaching with these 8 powerful, extraordinary statements.  We know them as “the Beatitudes.”  Each one of them begins with the word, “Blessed.”  But, again, they’re not what you might think.  Last week, we started with the first one, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”  Poor and blessing definitely don’t seem to go together.  But what we discovered is that Jesus was talking about people who humble themselves and realize their need for God.

This Sunday, we are going to look at the 2nd of these revolutionary statements that Jesus made.  And it’s another one of these almost upside/down statements that leaves you scratching your head.  Matthew 5:4, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”  We don’t even like to use the word MOURN.  We live in a society that’s addicted to entertainment and the pursuit of pleasure.  We want to lighten up, loosen up, live it up, and laugh it up.  In fact, we take great pains to do everything we can to avoid sorrow and pain.  The mantra for many today would be something like this, “Blessed are those who manage to laugh their way through life.”  And again, there’s nothing wrong with having a good sense of humor or having a good time.  But the reality is, there isn’t a person reading this, who hasn’t experienced the truth of Proverbs 14:13, “Laughter can conceal a heavy heart; when the laughter ends, the grief remains.” 

And so while the world wines and dines and laughs itself into delirium, the Word of God continues to whisper the wisdom of Jesus.  And here that wisdom is saying, “If you’re truly interested in deep joy and lasting fulfillment, then blessed are the sorrowful. Happy are the sad.”  Now, what in the world does that mean?  What, exactly, is He describing?  Again, probably not what you might expect ,but you’ll have to come to church on Sunday to find out!  Haha – how’s that for a cliffhanger?!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you on Sunday!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas: TODAY, Friday, April 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Brighton Place Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Brighton Place community (here in West Ashley – near Citadel Mall) on Wednesday, April 24th, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, April 25th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, April 26th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, April 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, May 3rd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, May 3rd,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, May 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants (ages 16-26) a glimpse into life in ministry. Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
5. Are you grieving the loss of a spouse or do you know someone who is?  Join one of the FREE special GriefShare sessions on Monday, May 20th at 2pm or 6pm at Coastal.  Register at www.GriefShare.org or contact Freeda (540-903-5030) or Sue (616-443-6553).

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

Something that you’ll hear me say from time to time is, “If a church isn’t constantly trying to reach the next generation for Christ, that church will eventually die.”  I’m so thankful to be a part of a church that makes children, students, and young adults a priority.  Let me share just a few examples:

– CHILDREN: I seriously can not say enough good things about our Coastal Kidz Children’s Ministry (Birth-5th Grade) – and it’s not just because my wife Janet is our Children’s Director!  Janet has been building a phenomenal Team – Aly Huggins, Assistant Director;  Tracy Gundy, Nursery Coordinator;  Erin Strand, Pre-school Coordinator;  Natalie Faust, Elementary Coordinator.  And then, of course, it’s the awesome army of Volunteers who serve, love, and teach, week in and week out!  I would seriously stack our Team and their volunteers up against group around the country!  They are planting seeds of the Gospel that will bear fruit for all eternity!  And by the way, with a growing ministry like ours, there is always a place for you to serve in Coastal Kidz!  Reach out to Janet, or go to our website and sign up today!  One place to get involved and experience the joy of our Children’s Ministry is VBS (see below)!  You can sign up your children and volunteer to serve today!

– STUDENTS: One of the best hires we made 2 years ago was Jacob Bonetti, our Youth Pastor.  He has a genuine and sincere faith, he loves the Lord, loves God’s Word, loves Students, and loves Coastal.  He is a Team Player and a Team Builder.  Just like our Children’s Ministry, he is building an awesome Team of Volunteers who love, teach, lead, and serve our Students each and every week!  They meet on Sunday nights, doors open at 5pm, and their program is from 5:30-7pm.  In fact, let me plug two things going on in Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) right now:  

1. SQUADS!  Each week, students are put in their teams (squad) and can compete for points by doing different things (such as dressing up in each week’s theme, Scripture memory, inviting friends, etc.). It’s very competitive and a lot of fun!  They still have worship, a message, prayer, and Discipleship Groups, but they also have a game built around the SQUADS competition!  They’re also taking up an offering each week with the goal of giving $1000 to build a Shanti Home in Peru for a family in need.  At the end of the year, the #1 Squad gets a prize! Oh, and they also have food each week!  

2. FUGE CAMPS!!! – June 25-29 (Tuesday-Saturday)  CSM is headed to Ridgecrest Conference Center in North Carolina for an amazing week at FUGE CAMPS!  Students will love every second of this week as they worship, participate in Bible study, go to recreation, pick tracks (activities) to do each day, and of course, there is a MEGA RELAY! It is going to be a transformative week, and we’d love for your student to come! The event costs $350, but do not let money be the reason your student does not attend! Also, you do not have to complete payment until June 6th!  So, go ahead and register while spots are limited so your student is LOCKED IN, then you can pay when convenient for you!  Reach out to Pastor Jacob if you have any questions about Student Ministry.  CLICK THIS LINK TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP

– YOUNG ADULTS:  We have a first this year for Coastal – something we’ve never done before:  An 8 week Summer Internship for Young Adults, ages 16-26, June-July.  This 8-Week Program is designed to give participants ministry experience and a glimpse into the life of someone in ministry.  Participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal Staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. Interns are paid $200 a week ($1600 total).  If you’re interested in providing housing for out-of-state Interns, please reach out to Rachel Speer.  To learn more about our internship program or to apply for the program itself, go to our website today.  All applications must be submitted by May 31, 2024.

These are just a few of the ways that we are raising up the next generation of Jesus followers here at Coastal!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY,  Friday, April 12th; Monday, April 15th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, April 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, April 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, April 16th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, April 17th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, April 18th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, April 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday night, April 18th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Let us know on your Connect Card if you need childcare.
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, April 14th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

It truly was an AMAZING Easter weekend at Coastal.  I can’t thank our Staff and Volunteers enough for all your hard work.  I’m still blown away by all the people who were here, the friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers who were invited, and the stories of life change that I’ve been hearing about.  And like I said over the weekend, “We’re just getting started!”  God is definitely up to something here at Coastal, and I’m just humbled and honored to be a part of it.  I hope you are too!

This Sunday we’re kicking off a brand new series on the greatest sermon ever preached.  And no, it’s nothing me or any of our other Pastors have preached – haha!  It’s a sermon that Jesus Himself preached.  We typically refer to it as the Sermon on the Mount.  It’s the longest, continuous teaching of Jesus that we have.  It’s Jesus uncut and uncensored.  It’s found in Matthew chapters 5-7.  And while it’s only 3 chapters, we’re going to take our time, and make our way through it verse by verse, section by section.  Much like we did with the book of Romans, we’re going to start now, take a break during the Summer with our “At the Movies” and “Summer Reading” series, pick back up in the Fall, take a break during the Holidays, and then finish up in the beginning of the new year.  But this will be our major emphasis most of the next year.  In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is essentially teaching us what it means to be His disciple, what it means to be His follower.  And that’s why I’m so excited about this series!  Do your best not to miss any of it, and as always, invite and bring someone with you!

Tomorrow is the first Saturday of the month – which can only mean one thing!  It’s Saturday Serve!  I hope you’ll join us – 8:30 am, at the church.  You’ll listen to our Project Leaders pitch all the different projects, choose a project you’re interested in, and then go out and serve!  It really is that simple and easy.  But that, in no way, describes the IMPACT you’ll make, and the blessing you’ll experience, being the hands, feet, and voice of Jesus right here in our community.  By the way, that describes something else that is just around the corner – Summer of IMPACT!  Summer of IMPACT is a month-long effort (the entire month of June) where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service.  It’s basically what we normally do all throughout the year, but MULTIPLIED during the month of June (58 different projects)!  There is something for everyone.  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month. You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that easy.  Every project has a leader and every project is well-organized.  We unveiled our Summer of IMPACT calendar this past weekend.  You can start signing up for projects on May 1st!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, April 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, April 5th; Monday, April 8th;  Friday, April 12th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, April 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Kits:  On Saturday, April 6th, 4:30-7pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, April 9th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, April 11th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, April 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday night, April 18th, from 6pm-9pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Let us know on your Connect Card if you need childcare.
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  We bought 1000 tickets to give away and we have just over 100 left!
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 14th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.

Woohoo!  It’s finally here!  The first of our 6 services, over the next 3 days, BEGINS TONIGHT!  I can’t wait to celebrate with you and your friends & family!  Our service times are:  Friday (TONIGHT), March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday (TOMORROW), March 30th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  It’s still looking like our Saturday at 6pm service is going to be the least crowded service of the six if you want to avoid the crowds.  So, one last time, if you haven’t done so yet, please go to our website and let us know which service you and your guests will be attending.  Historically, our Sunday, 10am service is PACKED!  We will be adding extra chairs, and we will have our Chapel open and set up for overflow.  So, I need our regular Coastal folks to be prepared to move over to overflow to help make room if necessary.  Remember, it’s not about you.  We’re willing to do whatever it takes to reach as many people as possible.

But most importantly, it’s still not too late to make that call, send that email or text, walk across the street or the office, and invite someone to church this weekend!  You never know the power of a simple invitation.  43 years ago a friend from school invited me to church.  One week later, I ended up giving my life to Jesus and committing to full-time Christian ministry!  Simply put, it changed my life!  Who do you know that needs Jesus?

A few other quick reminders about Easter at Coastal:  Parking & Seatingreally is important on Big Days like Easter, especially Sunday morning.  Please, please park as far away as possible (at Oakland Elementary School – the first right immediately past the Greenway) and sit to the front and center of each section.  And this is important – COME EARLY, especially if you or your guests have children to check in!  With more guests on our campus, make sure you’re even MORE gracious, kind, loving, and helpful to everyone!  Again, it’s not about you. 

PRAY!  Pray for everyone who has received an invitation to come to church.  Pray that not only will they say yes, but that their hearts will be open and receptive to the Gospel.  Pray for me, my voice, my energy, and my message.  Pray for our Worship/Tech Team.  Pray for Coastal Kidz and all the children they will see over the weekend.  Pray for all of our Volunteers that they will be ambassadors for Jesus and His church this weekend and all of our Guests will feel like our welcome, expected Guests in our home.  And speaking of Guests, make sure you escort yours to Guest Services to receive their free gift.  Fill out a Connect Card (yes – there will be giveaways at the end of each service) and encourage your Guests to do the same.  As a Staff and as a church, we started working on and planning for Easter back in January.  Yes, there is still time to invite people, but for the most part the work has been done.  Now, we continue to pray like it all depends on God.  We walk by faith and trust Him.  And then we celebrate the results!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I can’t wait to celebrate with you! 

He Is Not Here! He Is Risen!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, April 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, April 5th; Monday, April 8th;  Friday, April 12th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, April 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Kits:  On Saturday, April 6th, 4:30-7pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, April 9th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, April 11th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, April 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. One of the ways our church marks the beginning of Summer every year is through something called Summer of IMPACT!  If you are fairly new to Coastal, Summer of IMPACT is a month-long effort (the entire month of June) where we as a church saturate our community with the love of Jesus through simple acts of service.  It’s basically what we normally do all throughout the year, but MULTIPLIED during the month of June!  There is something for everyone.  There are opportunities nearly every day of the month. You simply sign-up and then show-up.  It’s that easy.  Every project has a leader and every project is well-organized.  You’ll be able to see a calendar of all the projects this weekend at Coastal and you can start signing up May 1st!
   
3. On Mother’s Day, May 12th, Coastal will celebrate all the women in our lives with fun giveaways, FREE Kona Ice for all ages, a family photo station, and Baby/Child Dedication in all 3 services.  If you would like your child to participate in the Dedication Service, sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.
   
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 14th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children is now open!  Go to our website and register today!

P.S.S. We are planning our Annual BEACH BAPTISM out at Folly Beach County Park on Sunday, June 9th, at 5pm.  You can sign up for it on our website.  The only requirement for Baptism is that you have personally given your life to Jesus.  Baptism is a public profession of your faith, and it’s a great celebration!  It beautifully illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  If you’re unable to participate in our Beach Baptism, remember at Coastal we’re ready for you to get Baptized any service, any Sunday.  If you are interested in getting Baptized, simply respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card, or sign up on our website.

Obviously there has been a big build up for Easter, but don’t think for a second that everything slows down and comes to a screeching halt after Easter at Coastal.  In fact, just the opposite is true.  Here are 4 things that I’m excited about that I want to share with you:

– Mother’s Day, May 12th, is going to be awesome!  Ladies (all women, not just moms) will receive a special gift from the church!  And yes, there will be Kona Ice, Giveaways, and a Photo Booth.  But Mother’s Day (and Father’s Day) means Baby/Child Dedication at Coastal.  We’re capping each service at 10 families per service, so sign up on your Connect Card this weekend for the service of your choice – first come, first serve!

– SUMMER OF IMPACT!  If you’ve been at Coastal over a Summer, you know what this is all about.  It’s basically the Outreach/Serving projects we do during the month ON STEROIDS for the month of June!  This year there are over 58 different projects – something for everyone, almost every day of the month of June.  You’ll get to see a calendar insert on Easter Sunday!

– BEACH BAPTISM!  This is always a special highlight of the year!  We usually have a Beach Baptism at the beginning of the Summer and the end of the Summer.  Our first one will be Sunday, June 9th, 5pm, at Folly Beach County Park.  If you are interested in getting Baptized at the Beach, you can go to our website and sign up today!

– VBS AT COASTAL! Mark your calendars now – July 8th-12th, from 6-8:15pm each night for children 4 years old – 5th Grade!  This year’s theme is “Scuba – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  You’ll be able to start registering your children and signing up to serve over Easter weekend!

Wow!  And that’s just 4 things around the corner I’m excited about!  It doesn’t even include our annual kick off of “At the Movies”, Summer Camp for our Students, a Missions Trip to Peru, and Coastal Day at the River Dogs!  Keep reading below for all the information on Easter Weekend!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, March 22nd, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, March 22nd and Friday, March 29th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, April 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, April 5th and Monday, April 8th,  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, April 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Kits:  On Saturday, April 6th, 4:30-7pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. The most important thing we can do to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter is to PRAY!  Hopefully you’ve already been praying during our 40 Day Easter Fast. To help mobilize our church even further in prayer, our Prayer Team is organizing two events that you can participate in.  We’re conducting a Prayer Walk on Wednesday, March 27th at 5pm at Coastal – everyone welcome.  We’re also conducting a 24-hour Prayer Vigil (from your home).  We’re praying in 15-minute increments for a continuous 24-hour period beginning at 6:30pm on Thursday, March 28th, until 6:30pm on Friday, March 29th.  If you’d be interested in joining in the Prayer Vigil, click on this linkand sign up for a time slot.
   
3. Well, it’s time – time to make the ask and invite your friends to church this Easter!  Our Easter services are now officially ONE WEEK AWAY!  Hopefully by now you’re well aware that we’re having 6 identical services over three days (see times and dates above).  And speaking of making the ask, what’s the worst thing that can happen?  They say no.  And by the way, just because someone says no, keep praying, keep loving, keep serving, look for the open door and ask again later.  But think for a moment about the best thing that could happen.  You could be used by God to literally affect someone’s eternity.  It’s possible that they hear the Good News of the Gospel and give their life to Jesus!  We have the opportunity to literally change the trajectory of entire generations by a simple ask.  Don’t  believe me?  You’re a part of Coastal today because a friend invited me to church when I was 13 years old.  One week later from that ask, I gave my life to Jesus and felt God’s call for ministry.  Make the ask! 
   
   For those of you on Social Media, please go to our Easter at Coastal webpage and click on the “Download Shareable Easter Invite Images” button.  A zip file containing a folder of different images will automatically download on your computer.  These are great images to use on Facebook and Instagram to get the word out and invite people to Coastal for Easter!
   
   And while you’re on our Easter At Coastal page, make sure you go ahead and register for the service you and your family and friends are planning to attend!  That way we can let people know when a service is reaching capacity.  Make sure you connect with your LIFE Team Leader and sign up now to serve at one or more of our services (see contact info. below).  If you are not currently serving in a Ministry, Easter is a great time to get started! 
   
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, April 14th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!

P.S. To pull off a big weekend like Easter with 6 services, we need 2 things to happen:  1.  We need our current volunteers to serve multiple services. Please keep in mind that Sunday will need the most volunteers.  2. We need new volunteers to start serving!  If you’ve never volunteered before, Easter weekend is a great time to start!  You can sign up to serve on your Connect Card this Sunday or you can go to our website and sign up today!  Our LIFE Team Leaders will follow up with you and get you started!

You can also contact our LIFE Team Leaders or Staff directly (contact info below).  Each one of our LIFE Team Leaders is AWESOME, and they will step you through the process. I promise you that what you will receive in return, is far greater than any sacrifice you think you will make.  Sign up today!

Janet Rollins: Coastal Kidz
janet@coastalcommunitychurch.org
843-442-8299

Pastor Scott Huff: 1st Impressions
scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org
859-230-5129 

Matt & Kathy Beam: Cafe
mattbeam13@yahoo.com
843-296-0203

Bryan Miller: Security Team
bryan.bcmill@gmail.com
843-296-2991

Pastor Chris Jones: Prayer Team
chrisjones@coastalcommunitychurch.org
843-870-4613

Pastor Ryan Spell: Worship, Tech, & Online Engagement
ryan@coastalcommunitychurch.org
843-442-8985

Rachel Speer: Office Volunteers
rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org
501-940-0293

P.S.S. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants (ages 16-26) a glimpse into life in ministry. Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please reach out to rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Find out more by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.

2 WEEKS UNTIL EASTER!  Okay Coastal, make sure to pick up and take advantage of all the tools we give away to make it easy to invite someone to our Easter Services.  We have tickets, invite cards, yard signs, social media graphics, and this Sunday we’ll add postcards to your arsenal.  But all of those tools are useless unless you actually reach out to someone.  I also hope you’ll access the most powerful weapon you have in your arsenal – prayer – and join us for our Prayer Walk and Prayer Vigil (see below)!  Please pray for all the people everyone from our church will be inviting, pray for all the people who will receive a postcard in the mail or see our yard signs or billboards.  Pray for our services, our Volunteer Teams, our Staff, and my message.  Pray that many people will respond to the good news of the Gospel and take next steps in their spiritual life.

To pull off a big weekend like Easter with 6 services, we need 2 things to happen:  1.  We need our current volunteers to serve multiple services. Please keep in mind that Sunday will need the most volunteers.  2. We need new volunteers to start serving!  If you’ve never volunteered before, Easter weekend is a great time to start!  And 1st Impressions and Coastal Kidz is a great place to start.  Go to our website and sign up today!  Our LIFE Team Leaders will follow up with you and get you started.  

One last thing about Easter – go to Easter at Coastal and let us know which service you plan on attending by reserving your spot!  It lets us know when a service reaches capacity.  I know we keep saying it, but we really want to encourage our people (YOU) to attend on Friday and Saturday, to make more room on Sunday.  If you plan to come that Sunday, please try to come to the 8:30am or the 11:30am service and park at Oakland.  Typically, the 10am service is PACKED!  But most importantly, as we always say, come to the service that you can get your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to come to, yes, even if it’s Easter Sunday at 10am!.  And obviously, if you’re serving, come to the service that best suits your serving schedule.  Here are the Easter service times:  Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30 & 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am!  

This Sunday, I’ll be closing out our “Financial Freedom” series.  It’s my prayer that this series has been challenging, encouraging, and helpful.  I hope you have a better understanding of why the church should never be apologetic when it comes to talking about money and why a series like this is so important today.  I also hope that you’ve seen the heart of our church during this series – a generous, openhanded church.  Think about all the things that we’ve done during this series – all of the Dave Ramsey materials free for anyone from our church, D-Day where we paid down a $1000 of debt for 3 different people, the free Will & Estate Planning seminar where we gave away a free will package from an Attorney, our reverse offering last Sunday where we gave away $10,000 to our church to spur on a movement of generosity!  Wow!  It has truly been an amazing series that many people are going to look back on as a real turning point in their lives.  This Sunday I’m going to take some of the big principles that we’ve talked about during this series and pull them all together in one final message.  Don’t miss it!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor and leading alongside such wonderful people!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, March 15th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, March 19th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, March 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, March 21st, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, March 22nd, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, March 23nd, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Carolina Bay Easter “Spring Fling”:  Saturday, March 23rd, 3:30pm-7pm.  We’re setting up tents and tables with Easter Crafts for the children/families of Carolina Bay.  Meet at the park at Carolina Bay at 3:30pm to help unload and set up.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
2. The most important thing we can do to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter is to PRAY!  Hopefully you’ve already been praying during our 40 Day Easter Fast. To help mobilize our church even further in prayer, our Prayer Team is organizing two events that you can participate in.  We’re conducting a Prayer Walk on Wednesday, March 27th at 5pm at Coastal – everyone welcome.  We’re also conducting a 24-hour Prayer Vigil (from your home).  We’re praying in 15-minute increments for a continuous 24-hour period beginning at 6:30pm on Thursday, March 28th, until 6:30pm on Friday, March 29th.  If you’d be interested in joining in the Prayer Vigil, click on this linkand sign up for a time slot.
3. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants (ages 16-26) a glimpse into life in ministry. Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please contact the church office.  Find out more by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
5. On Saturday, March 23rd, from 4-7pm, our church will be participating in the Carolina Bay Spring Fling/Easter Egg Hunt!  We’ll be providing a craft area for all the children.  We’ll have our Coastal tents, tables, and supplies for 300+ children!  Here’s what we need – VOLUNTEERS!  Now, there are A LOT of Coastal people who live in Carolina Bay.  If you would be willing to be a volunteer and simply welcome and greet people, help children at a craft table, help set up / break down, and be a Coastal Ambassador, please sign up online.  Even if you can help for an hour or two, just let me know. Set up begins at 3:00PM. And you don’t have to live in Carolina Bay to help – anyone is welcome!

P.S. We’re having a Baby/Child Dedication on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12th OR Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18th.  If you would like your family to participate, sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday OR sign up online. Include the child’s full name and the service you will be attending.

P.S.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children will open Easter weekend!

It’s now just 3 WEEKS UNTIL EASTER!  It’s time – time to start making those phone calls, sending those texts, extending those invitations!  Go to Easter at Coastal and download our shareable graphics to use on Social Media.  And while you’re there please don’t forget to let us know which service you plan on attending by reserving your spot!  It lets us know when a service reaches capacity.  We really want to encourage our people (YOU) to attend on Friday and Saturday, to make more room on Sunday.  If you plan to come that Sunday, please try to come to the 8:30am or the 11:30am service.  Typically, the 10am service is PACKED!  But most importantly, as we always say, come to the service that you can get your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to come to.  And if you’re serving, come to the service that best suits your serving schedule.  Here are the Easter service times:  Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30 & 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am!  

Speaking of serving, please talk to your Ministry Leaders now and VOLUNTEER FOR MULTIPLE SERVICES!  6 services means that it’s “All Hands On Deck.”  We need everyone!  If you’re not serving on Sunday morning yet, Easter is a great time to start.  Sign up to volunteer on your Connect Card this Sunday, and we’ll get you plugged in.  It will be one of the most worthwhile things you do, being used by God to be a link in the chain of people taking next steps and coming to know Jesus!  If you’re not sure where to volunteer, 1st Impressions and Coastal Kidz is a great place to start.

Hopefully you’ve heard by now, but this Sunday at Coastal, as a part of our “Financial Freedom” series, we’re doing a “Reverse Offering.”  We’re going to pass our blue offering buckets around and instead of putting anything in, we want everyone in the room to take one envelope out.  Inside the envelope you’ll find somewhere between $5 and $100.  Now, if you need the money, keep it.  But what we’re encouraging everyone to do is to use the money as a start, to possibly add to it, and use it as a small seed of blessing, for someone else.  Maybe you do something as simple as pay for the meal of the next person in the drive through, or leave an extra large tip for your server.  Maybe you make and take a meal to a shut-in or to the firemen at a fire station.  Maybe you help pay for someone’s mission trip.  Maybe you and your friends or your LIFE Group pool your money together and pay a bill for a single mom struggling to make ends meet.  You pray about it, get creative, and see what God does through you.  Make it something for the whole family to do together.  And then send us an email, or post something on social media, using the hashtag #coastalgivesback, telling us about your experience.  Are you ready for this?  We’re giving away a total of $10,000 in cash for our church to be a blessing.  I can’t wait to hear all about your experience and what God led you to do!

The most important thing we can do to prepare our hearts and minds for Easter is to PRAY!  Hopefully you’ve already been praying during our 40 Day Easter Fast. To help mobilize our church even further in prayer, our Prayer Team is organizing two events that you can participate in.  We’re conducting a Prayer Walk on Wednesday, March 27th at 5pm at Coastal – everyone welcome.  We’re also conducting a 24-hour Prayer Vigil (from your home).  We’re praying in 15-minute increments for a continuous 24-hour period beginning at 6:30pm on Thursday, March 28th until 6:30pm on Friday, March 29th.  If you’d be interested in joining in the Prayer Vigil, click on this linkand sign up for a time slot.

And finally, I want you to welcome Tracy Gundy and Natalie Faust to our Coastal Staff Team!  Tracy will be serving as our Nursery/Toddler Coordinator and Natalie will be serving as our Elementary Coordinator in Coastal Kidz.  Janet and Aly are building an AMAZING Team!  And God is building an AMAZING Family here at Coastal!  I’m just humbled and honored to be a part of it!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor and leading alongside such wonderful people!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, March 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY Friday, March 8th & Monday, March 11th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, March 9th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, March 12th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, March 14th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, March 15th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, March 19th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, March 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar THIS Sunday, March 10th, 5pm- 8pm, in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  Sign up online or RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare! Dinner provided.
   
3. Coastal Community Church’s Internship Program is an eight-week, Summer Ministry experience designed to give participants (ages 16-26) a glimpse into life in ministry. Passionate & gifted participants will gain valuable experience while working alongside Coastal staff members in areas of Administration, Outreach, Worship Arts, Production & Communications, Children’s, or Student Ministries. If you’re interested in providing housing for out of state interns, please contact the church office.  Find out more by visiting our internship program page at www.coastalcommunitychurch.org/connect/internships.
   
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. On Saturday, March 23rd, from 4-7pm, our church will be participating in the Carolina Bay Spring Fling/Easter Egg Hunt!  We’ll be providing a craft area for all the children.  We’ll have our Coastal tents, tables, and supplies for 300+ children!  Here’s what we need – VOLUNTEERS!  Now, there are A LOT of Coastal people who live in Carolina Bay.  If you would be willing to be a volunteer and simply welcome and greet people, help children at a craft table, help set up / break down, and be a Coastal Ambassador, please sign up online.  Even if you can help for an hour or two, just let me know. Set up begins at 3:00PM. And you don’t have to live in Carolina Bay to help – anyone is welcome!

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

P.S.S. Mark your calendars now – Coastal’s VBS is July 8th-12th, 6-8:15pm for children 4 years old – 5th Grade.  This year’s theme is, “SCUBA – Diving Into Friendship With God!”  Registration for Volunteers and children will open Easter weekend!

March 1st – can you believe it?!  Well, either way, it’s here.  And that means one thing – EASTER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!!  In fact, the first of our 6 Easter Services is now 28 days away!  Here is the schedule:  Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30 & 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am!  

This Sunday, make sure you pick up all the Easter Invite Tools: tickets, invite cards, & yard signs!  And yes, go ahead and go to Easter at Coastaland let us know which service you plan on attending and how many people you’re bringing with you.  While you’re there, make sure you download our shareable graphics to use on Social Media.  We really want to encourage our Coastal people to attend on Friday and Saturday, to make more room on Sunday.  If you need to come that Sunday, please try to come to the 8:30am or the 11:30am service.  Typically, the 10am service is PACKED!  But the most important thing is to come to the service that you can get your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to join you.  And if you’re serving, come to the service that best suits your service schedule.  

Talk to your Ministry Leaders now and please volunteer for multiple services.  6 services means that it’s “All Hands On Deck.”  We need everyone!  And if you’re not serving on Sunday morning yet, Easter is a great time to start.  Sign up to volunteer on your Connect Card this Sunday, and we’ll get you plugged in.  It will be one of the most worthwhile things you do, being used by God to be a link in the chain of people taking next steps and coming to know Jesus!  If you’re not sure where to volunteer, 1st Impressions and Coastal Kidz is a great place to start.

And finally, I want to share something with you that’s deeply sad.  Justin Mysock, a 43 year old man who had been coming to Coastal for about the last 6 months, tragically took his own life on Sunday night.  Honestly, not a lot of people at our church knew Justin, but those who did, knew that he struggled deeply.  Family, friends, and those at Coastal who prayed with him or talked with him, offered help and encouraged him to seek professional help.  Even last week, he was in my Wednesday morning Men’s Group and shared that he was struggling.  Multiple men encouraged him, offered to help, and gave him their number.  But, one of the things that I’ve learned over the years, is that we can’t force people to accept or get the help they need. We can’t take responsibility for their actions.  And obviously, when someone gets to that point, they’re no longer thinking clearly.  

But it is a wake up call for all of us that what we do here at Coastal matters, that people need the Lord, they need help, and they need hope.  It’s a reminder to open our eyes and our hearts to not only see the hurting and hopeless all around us, but to act.  Make that phone call.  Have that conversation.  And if YOU are hurting, struggling, and need help, we’re here for you, and we have resources.  Not only do we provide LIFE Groups and Pastoral Counseling, but we have a list of recommended professional counselors that we regularly share with those in need.  Rudy Polito, from our church, works with an organization (NAMI) that provides support and resources for those who struggle with mental illness.  We have Celebrate Recovery that meets regularly on Tuesday nights, 6:30pm in the Chapel.  Celebrate Recovery is not just for those who battle alcohol and drug addiction.  It’s for anyone who struggles with hurts, habits, or hangups (pretty much includes all of us).  Then, of course, we offer Grief Share, for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.  Grief Share meets here at the church on Mondays at 2pm and then again at 6pm.  Pray for Justin’s family & friends that he leaves behind, including his 2 boys, 12 year old twins.  Pray for our Pastors and Staff as we communicate the love of Christ to a hurting world.  And pray for all the people that together we will be reaching out to this Easter.  Jesus truly is the hope of this world!  Now let’s make sure they know it!  Make sure you tell and show the people in your life today how much they are loved!  Speaking of which, I love YOU!  I love being your Pastor and leading alongside such an awesome team here at Coastal!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Today, Friday, March 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Today, Friday, March 1st;  Monday, March 4th; Friday, March 8th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Tomorrow, Saturday, March 2nd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, March 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, March 9th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar next Sunday, March 10th, 5pm  – 8pm, in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  Sign up online or RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare! Dinner provided.
   
3. As a part of our Financial Freedom series, we are offering a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar!  The Seminar will be in our Auditorium THIS Sunday, March 3rd, at 4pm (come a few minutes early, seminar will start ON TIME).  Childcare provided (come early if you need childcare, seminar will start ON TIME).  Go online and sign up today!  During the seminar we will be drawing names and giving away a Will Package with an Attorney.
   
4. Coastal Day at the Riverdogs!  Join us on Sunday, April 21st, at 5pm at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball game!  Reserve your FREE tickets by texting TICKETS to 843-571-1777.  Tickets will be distributed digitally to your email.  Questions?  Contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. On Saturday, March 23rd, from 4-7pm, our church will be participating in the Carolina Bay Spring Fling/Easter Egg Hunt!  We’ll be providing a craft area for all the children.  We’ll have our Coastal tents, tables, and supplies for 300+ children!  Here’s what we need – VOLUNTEERS!  Now, there are A LOT of Coastal people who live in Carolina Bay.  If you would be willing to be a volunteer and simply welcome and greet people, help children at a craft table, help set up / break down, and be a Coastal Ambassador, please sign up online.  Even if you can help for an hour or two, just let me know. Set up begins at 3:00PM. And you don’t have to live in Carolina Bay to help – anyone is welcome!

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

We had a great kick-off to our “Financial Freedom” series this past Sunday with over 1100 people in attendance (another 927 online)!  We’re calling this Sunday, “D-Day” as I’ll be talking about the steps to getting out of debt.  To “put our money where our mouth is,” we’ll be drawing a Connect Card at the end of each service to give away $1000 to help someone pay down their debt.  To receive the debt pay down, the winner will simply contact our Office Manager and provide the details of the debt they would like to pay down.  We’ll take care of the rest!  If the winner is already debt free, they can designate someone else from Coastal to pass along the benefit, and we will contact them.  It’s going to be a powerful, exciting Sunday – don’t miss it!  Invite and bring your friends and FILL OUT YOUR CONNECT CARD!   

Our Spring semester of LIFE Groups started this week!  I’ve heard nothing but GREAT things!  Personally, I lead a Wednesday morning LIFE Group, and it was so great to see everyone and get started!  We have awesome leaders, and I can’t wait to hear the stories of community, connection, and change!  Many of our Groups are full, but for those that aren’t, it’s still not too late to join.  Go to our website and sign up today! If you have any questions about Groups, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.

It looks like it’s shaping up to be a large group of people that we’ll be taking to Peru this Summer – July 20-27!  Don’t forget, if you are interested in going, your $1000 deposit is due this Sunday.  If you have any questions about the trip or the deposit, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.

There’s one more debt I want to remind you about.  And it’s got nothing to do with finances.  It’s the debt that each person owes God because of our sin.  The Bible says that “all have sinned and fallen short of God’s standard.”  You and I have all gone our own way and lived apart from God’s principles.  And so that’s a debt you owe.  Here’s the bad news, the Bible says, “The wages of sin is death.”  In other words, you can never repay this debt, in and of yourself.  You can’t be good enough and try to make up for all the bad things you’ve done.  You can’t work your way into heaven.  You can’t earn God’s favor.  There is nothing you can do to overcome that debt. 

You are hopeless and helpless, EXCEPT for what Jesus has already done for you.  “For the wages of sin is death, BUT the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”  You see, that’s what the cross is all about.  God loved you so much that even though you chose to violate His law and go your own way, He wants you to come home.  And He knew that there was nothing you could do to make up for that.  But there was one who could pay the price for all of our sin, because He was perfect.  And that was His one and only Son Jesus.  And so He sent Him to this earth as the payment for our sin.  So when we ask Jesus to come into our life and forgive us of our sin, He does that.  And then God cancels the debt.  He wipes it clean.  It is forgiven for all of eternity.  That’s why Jesus said, “It is finished!” on the cross.  In other words, it’s paid for.  So when you ask Christ to come into your life, He cancels the debt.  Colossians 2:14, “He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.” 

I sincerely hope a lot of people at our church decide to become financially debt free.  That’s a process, and it might take several years to accomplish that.  But here’s the good news, listen to this.  Are you ready?  In an instant, you can become spiritually debt free, forgiven, and brand new!  Isn’t that awesome?  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor and leading alongside such an awesome team!  And I love what we get to do together! 

See you Sunday!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, today, Friday, February 23rd & Friday, March 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Today, Friday, February 23rd, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, March 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, March 1st;  Monday, March 4th; Friday, March 8th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, March 2nd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, March 9th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. At Coastal, we believe in making an impact one life at a time. We’re hosting an Impact Evangelism Seminar on Sunday, March 10th, at 5pm in the Coastal Chapel. Come learn practical tools to help build your confidence to share your faith without fear.  RSVP on your Connect Card, and let us know if you’ll need childcare!
   
3. As a part of our Financial Freedom series, we are offering a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar!  The Seminar will be in our Chapel on Sunday, March 3rd, at 4pm.  Childcare provided.  RSVP on your Connect Card or go online and sign up today!  During the seminar we will be drawing names and giving away a Will Package with an Attorney.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Easter comes early this year – Sunday, March 31st!  Coastal will be having 6 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!  Our goal is to have over 2500 people in person over Easter Weekend!  Start praying now for the people you will be inviting and for the people the church will be reaching out to through all of our advertising.

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

I know sometimes I must sound like a broken record, but it was another amazing Sunday at Coastal this past week!  It was LIFE Group Sunday!   We had 1124 people in-person, 810 online, and 2 more Baptisms!  I want to thank those of you who have been parking at Oakland and those of you who shifted from the 10am service to either the 8:30am or the 11:30am service – please keep it up!  I can’t thank all of our LIFE Group Leaders enough for all of their hard work and creativity!  They “knocked it out of the park” again!  The excitement, fun, and enthusiasm in the room was palpable!  Plus, are you ready for this, so far we’ve had over 1134 total signups for LIFE Groups!  That’s AWESOME!

While some of our LIFE Groups are already full, many are not.  So go to our website, check out the catalog, and sign up for a LIFE Group today!  Once you sign up for a LIFE Group, your Group Leader will contact you with all the important information.  Most LIFE Groups begin THIS coming week.  If you have any questions about Groups, please reach out to Pastor Scott Huff.  

The big push between now and Easter Weekend will be Volunteers!  So, reach out to your LIFE Team Leader and start signing up to serve on Planning Center now.  Easter comes early this year – Sunday, March 31st!  Coastal will be having 6 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!  Our goal is to have over 2500 people in person over Easter Weekend!  Start praying now for the people you will be inviting and for the people the church will be reaching out to through all of our advertising.

And finally, if you haven’t heard, this Sunday, February 18th, we kick off our “Financial Freedom!” series. During this series we’ll be giving away all of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace resources for FREE (to you AND anyone you bring to Coastal)!  We have a Financial Peace LIFE Group this semester (Monday nights, 6:30pm beginning February 19th)!  Go online and sign up today!  On Sunday, February 25th, we’re giving away $1000 in each service to help someone pay down their debt.  On Sunday afternoon, March 3rd, we’re hosting a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar with an Attorney to answer any of your questions.  During the seminar we’re giving away a Will Package from the Attorney for FREE (a $1500 value)!  Go online and sign up today!  During all 3 services on Sunday, March 10th, we’ll be giving away thousands of dollars in something called a “reverse offering.”  People will literally be taking envelopes of money out of the blue offering buckets and then encouraged to use the money as “seeds” to creatively bless someone in our community.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor and leading alongside such an awesome team!  And I love what we get to do together! 

See you Sunday!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, February 16th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, February 20th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, February 21st, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 22nd, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, February 23rd, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, February 23rd, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, March 1st, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, March 1st, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins THIS Monday, February 19th, and goes through Good Friday, March 29th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
   
3. As a part of our Financial Freedom series, we are offering a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar!  The Seminar will be in our Chapel on Sunday, March 3rd, at 4pm.  Childcare provided.  RSVP on your Connect Card or go online and sign up today!  During the seminar we will be drawing names and giving away a Will Package with an Attorney.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is NEXT Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is TOMORROW, Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email or sign up on our website.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

The next couple of weeks are going to be exciting at Coastal with 2 BIG DAYS!  First of all, this Sunday, September 11th is LIFE Group Sunday!! What is LIFE Group Sunday you ask?  For those of you who are new to Coastal, let me explain.  Our Sunday morning worship service is pretty much the same, but just a little shorter.  We do that because we want to make plenty of time before and after each service for you to visit a table/booth representing each one of our 57 different LIFE Groups (kind of like a Job/College Fair, but for Groups)!  You’ll be able to meet other people checking out all the Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, enjoy some yummy snacks, and ask any questions you might have.  There will even be FREE Kona Ice outside for everyone!  I promise it will be a great day and a lot of fun!  But most importantly, SIGN UP FOR A LIFE GROUP!  In fact, many of our LIFE Groups are filling up fast.  Go online and sign up today!

And then the following Sunday, February 18th, we kick off our series called, “Financial Freedom!”  Hopefully by now, you’ve heard about all the exciting, practical things we’re doing during this series.  We’ll be giving away all of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace resources for FREE!  We’re going to give them away to you AND anyone you bring to Coastal!  We’ll have a Financial Peace LIFE Group this semester (Monday nights, 6:30pm beginning February 19th)!  Go online and sign up today!  On Sunday, February 25th, we’re giving away $1000 in each service to help someone pay down their debt.  On Sunday afternoon, March 3rd, we’re hosting a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar with an Attorney to answer any of your questions.  During the seminar we’re giving away a Will Package from the Attorney for FREE (a $1500 value)!  During all 3 services on Sunday, March 10th, we’ll be giving away thousands of dollars in something called a “reverse offering.”  People will literally be taking envelopes of money out of the blue offering buckets and then encouraged to use the money as “seeds” to creatively bless someone in our community (we’ll explain it during the series).  It’s going to be awesome!

And speaking of practical, here are some very practical things I’m asking you to do.  1. Pray.  Pray that God would use our church and our people to draw people to Himself as we lift up the name of Jesus!  Pray for me and my messages.  Pray that the Holy Spirit would move in a mighty powerful way!  2. Pull out the stops, and invite and bring a friend to church with you, especially over the next two weeks!  Step out in faith, be bold, and make the ask!  3. If at all possible, consider going to the 8:30am service or the 11:30am service to make more room in the 10am service.  4. Park over at Oakland Elementary School.  This simple gesture will make the transition time between services go so much smoother.  See you and your friends on Sunday!  By the way, I absolutely LOVE IT when you introduce your friends to me!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together! 

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, February 9th & Monday, February 12th, all dates 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there,TODAY, Friday, February 9th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, February 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, February 13th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, February 15th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, February 16th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, February 20th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, February 21st, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins Monday, February 19th, and goes through Good Friday, March 29th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
   
   And speaking of Easter, it comes early this year – Sunday, March 31st!  Mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 6 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
3. Attention All Coastal Kidz Volunteers!  We are offering one more Coastal Kidz Training through Zoom THIS Monday evening, February 12, 8PM – 9PM.  This is for all Coastal Kidz volunteers, adults and students, newer volunteers, and those who have served for many years, who have NOT YET attended one of our January trainings.  This is a time for us to learn and grow as Coastal Kidz Volunteers and to adapt and improve how we serve our Coastal Kidz.  
   
   Sign up for the meeting at this link to let us know you’ll be there:
   https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=YlJLK1AyRWVOZUk9
   
   Here’s the Zoom info:
   Coastal Kidz Volunteer Training
   Feb 12, 2024 8PM
   Join Zoom Meeting
   https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81820864489?pwd=RgsLjBH8j3xdkTWAooib5bslPN2ukn.1
   Meeting ID: 818 2086 4489
   Passcode: kidz
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

So, have you signed up for a LIFE Group yet?  If you haven’t heard, we have unveiled our 2024 Spring Semester LIFE Group Catalog!  And just like college, your favorite classes (LIFE Groups) will fill up fast!  Some, in fact, have already reached capacity.  So, go to our website right now, check out all the different Groups and sign up today.  Most of our Groups start the week of February 18th.  Now, I can already hear some of your excuses.  And here is the biggest one of all.  “But Pastor Chris, I just don’t have the time for a LIFE Group.  I’m too busy.”  Please hear this with all the love I can muster.  You have time to do whatever it is you value – tv, social media, sports, hobbies.  It’s just not that important to you yet.  So, as we move into the New Year, think about what matters most in this life (your spiritual life, community), let that determine your values and priorities, and in turn let those values and priorities set or reset the habits and routines of your life.  I promise, it’s a decision you won’t regret!

Next Sunday, February 11th, is LIFE Group Sunday!  Before and after each service you’ll be able to check out all the Groups offered this semester, browse the tables in the Welcome Center representing those Groups, meet the different Group Leaders, and ask any questions you might have!  It’s a BIG Day here at Coastal and a LOT of fun!  Invite and bring a friend and don’t miss it!

And then the following Sunday, February 18th, we kick off what I believe is going to be a LIFE CHANGING series here at Coastal!  We’re going to do some things during this series that we’ve never done before.  The series is called, “Financial Freedom!”  And before you freak out, thinking, “Oh no, a series on money!  I knew it!  The church just wants my money!”  First of all, if you really feel that way about the Lord and about our church, keep your money.  We don’t want it, and God doesn’t want it either.  God wants what it represents – your heart.  And if you’re not a joyful, generous giver, God doesn’t have your heart.  Let’s just be honest with each other. Our world is in a financial mess!  Families are in a financial mess and are falling apart.  The world’s way just doesn’t work.  But God’s way does!  So let’s take this issue back!  Let’s boldly proclaim God’s word and help people honor God with their finances, break the chains of materialism, get out of debt, and leave a legacy for future generations!

Here are some of the things that will happen during the series.  Beginning February 18th, we’re going to give away all of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace resources for FREE!  We’re going to give them away to you AND anyone you bring to Coastal!  Oh and speaking of Financial Peace and LIFE Groups – we actually have a Financial Peace LIFE Group this semester (Monday nights, 6:30pm beginning February 19th)!  Go online and sign up today!  On Sunday, February 25th, we’re giving away $1000 in each service to help someone pay down their debt.  On Sunday afternoon, March 3rd, we’re hosting a FREE Will & Legacy Planning Seminar with an Attorney to answer any of your questions.  During the seminar we’re giving away a Will Package from the Attorney for FREE (a $1500 value)!  During all 3 services on Sunday, March 10th, we’ll be giving away thousands of dollars in something called a “reverse offering.”  People will literally be taking envelopes of money out of the blue offering buckets and then encouraged to use the money as “seeds” to creatively bless someone in our community (we’ll explain it during the series).  WOW!  Like I said, it’s going to be a series like no other!!  Chains are going to be broken, marriages are going to be healed, and lives are going to be forever changed!  I love you Coastal!  I love getting to be your Pastor!  And I love changing the world with you!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, February 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, February 2nd;  Monday, February 5th;  Friday, February 9th; Monday, February 12th, all dates 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is tomorrow, Saturday, February 3rd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Blood Drive:  Tomorrow on Saturday, February 3rd, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot. 
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 8th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, February 9th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, February 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, February 13th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Coastal’s Annual 40 Day Easter Fast begins Monday, February 19th, and goes through Good Friday, March 29th!  Start thinking now about what you’re going to give up to help prepare yourself and our church spiritually for Easter.  Sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday to let us know that you will be participating in the fast.
   
   And speaking of Easter, it comes early this year – Sunday, March 31st!  Mark your calendars now, Coastal will be having 6 Easter Services over 3 days: Friday, March 29th, 7pm;  Saturday, March 30th, 4:30pm, 6pm;  Sunday, March 31st, 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  Remember it’s all hands on deck!  Sign up now to serve in multiple services!
   
3. Attention All Homeschool Families:  We’re having a Valentines Homeschool Mingle on Friday, February 9th, 10am-12pm.  There will be crafts, food (pizza), and fellowship – you’ll get to meet and hang out with other Homeschool families!  This is not a drop-off event, but a time for the whole family. Please RSVP through Natalie Faust at either 443-907-2400 or njudway@gmail.com.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Coastal’s Young Adults (College-30ish) are invited to join us at the SC Stingrays hockey game at the North Charleston Coliseum on Saturday, March 16th, at 6pm.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email Pastor Scott at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org to reserve your spot by Sunday, March 10th.

Well, for those of you who don’t know, today is a special day.  It’s my wife Janet’s 60th Birthday!  Now, normally a husband can get into trouble for sharing his wife’s age.  And by the way, if it’s not your wife, you definitely don’t ask a woman’s age.  But in this case, I think Janet will let it slide.  After all, age is just a number.  And how does that saying go, “You either get older, or die young.”  I keep telling her that 60 is the new 40.  I don’t think she’s buying it, but I don’t think 60 could look any better.  And I couldn’t be more proud of and in love with anyone on this planet!  

Leading up to today, several people have asked me if we’re going to have a Big Party for Janet.  The answer is no.  First of all, at a church our size, who do we invite?  Or better yet, who do we not invite?  And then it becomes a big church event.  And honestly, that’s just not Janet.  Now trust me, as a Pastor’s wife for over 36 years, Janet has organized, planned, led, served, cooked, and cleaned for more church events than I can count.  But she doesn’t like being the center of attention.  She doesn’t like the pressure of feeling like she has to be “on.”  Truthfully, it’s one of the many things I love about my wife.  Instead, our plans are to enjoy the day together, talk to our kids, open a few presents, and cook and enjoy a meal together (and a few other little surprises – I can’t share everything here – she does read this).

And speaking of being a Pastor’s wife, most people have no idea how much a Pastor’s wife does, how much they give, and how much they sacrifice.  I would not be the Pastor I am today, without her.  Coastal wouldn’t be Coastal without her.  Many of you don’t know this, but Janet was our very first Worship Leader (she has a beautiful voice).  She led worship at Coastal for many years.  And what’s crazy, is that for a while she actually led worship AND was our Children’s Director AT THE SAME TIME!  And now, she’s been our Children’s Director for over 20+ years!  Very few people understand the weight and responsibility she carries.  And yet Janet carries it all with grace and love and humility.  She is a smart, strong, servant leader.  She is my encourager, confidant, counselor, teacher, proof reader, and best friend.  Every idea, sermon series, step of faith, new initiative, and staff hire was first run past Janet and her wisdom (okay, I do sneak some of my jokes past her approval – haha).  She is the best wife, the best mom, and the most beautiful woman I know!  

Later this year, after VBS, Janet is going to retire from being Coastal’s Children’s Director.  Aly Huggins, our Assistant Director, will move into that role (by the way Aly is transitioning into that role now and doing a great job).  But don’t worry, Janet’s not going anywhere.  I’m sure you’ll still see her serving in Coastal Kidz or one of many other ministries around Coastal.  Honestly, I’m not sure what the next chapter holds for my wife.  But I’ll tell you this, I’m excited to see it all unfold.  You see, Janet is more than a Children’s Director, more than a Pastor’s wife.  Like you, she’s a child of God and a daughter of the King, seeking to use her gifts selflessly for the Kingdom until Jesus comes again or calls her home.  In the meantime, I’m just blessed to call her my wife!  And if she’s been a blessing to you at all, feel free to shoot her a text, send her an email (janet@coastalcommunitychurch.org), or better yet, tell her in person on Sunday and give her a hug!  I love you Janet, I love being your husband, and I love what we get to do together on this side of eternity and here at Coastal!  And believe it or not, it still feels like we’re just getting started and the best is yet to come!  Happy Birthday!

A Grateful Husband!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, January 26th & Friday, February 9th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  TODAY, Friday, January 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, February 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, February 2nd;  Monday, February 5th;  Friday, February 9th, all dates 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, February 3rd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Blood Drive:  On Saturday, February 3rd, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.  Check out the insert in your bulletin on Sunday and use the QR Code to schedule an appointment!  Let’s help our community!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, February 8th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Double Tailgate Day: Meeting Street & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, February 10th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. As we begin 2024, we are having a Coastal Kidz volunteer training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers. This will be a time of fellowship, planning, brainstorming, and vision casting as we continue to make Coastal Kidz an amazing place for children to learn about God’s love and His Son Jesus as they grow to become faithful followers of Christ.
   
   We are offering the training this Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM. Childcare and dinner are provided. Please RSVP that you will attend and if you need childcare:
   
   Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bGVSY21UUFJoQWc9
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=NUZRblVzNW5TTnM9
   
3. Attention All Homeschool Families:  We’re having a Valentines Homeschool Mingle on Friday, February 9th, 10am-12pm.  There will be crafts, food (pizza), and fellowship – you’ll get to meet and hang out with other Homeschool families!  This is not a drop-off event, but a time for the whole family. Please RSVP through Natalie Faust at either 443-907-2400 or njudway@gmail.com.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. The 2024 LIFE Group Catalog has arrived!  That’s right, and this Sunday you’ll receive a copy.  In fact, you should also be receiving one in the mail soon (feel free to use one as an invitation and give it away).  I’m so excited about LIFE Groups this semester.  Once again, we have the most Groups we’ve ever had in one semester – 57!  You’ll have several weeks to check out the catalog and get signed up.  LIFE Group Sunday (like a job/college fair, but for LIFE Groups) will be Sunday, February 11th – always a BIG Day at Coastal!  And unless otherwise indicated, most Groups begin the week of February 18th and last 8-12 weeks.  And if you want to get an early jump, go to our website, check out our catalog and start signing up today!  If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org

Well, I’ve got some EXCITING NEWS to share with you!  Our Christmas Offering Goal for this year was $125,000.  Drumroll please . . . .we reached and SURPASSED our Christmas Offering Goal with a grand total of $170,588.50!  Wow!  Just WOW!  We will definitely be increasing our goal for next year – haha!  Your generosity never ceases to amaze me Coastal!  It is your consistent (not just at Christmas or special occasions), generous (above and beyond) giving that enables our church to do all that it does here, in the community, and around the world!  And speaking of Christmas around the world, we found out that our Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes were delivered to the following countries this year:  Panama, Ecuador, Burundi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uruguay, Peru, and Honduras (and certain hard to reach places that they can not list).  

In my end of the year message a few weeks ago, I said that by the end of 2024 I can see our church averaging over 1000 in weekly in-person attendance.  Little did I know that the next two weeks we would already be well over 1000 in attendance!  In fact, the last two weeks have been our largest (non Big Day) in-person weekly attendance in the history of our church.  Plus we’ve already Baptized 6 people this year!  Last year our goal was to Baptize 100 people.  And in 2023 we ended up Baptizing 114 people!  This year our goal is a BIG ONE – 200 people!  

We talk a lot about Next Steps at Coastal.  Maybe your next step is Baptism.  What is Baptism, and why is it important?  Well, first of all, let me simply say this – Jesus did it, He commanded it, and that should settle it!  Baptism is the outward expression of the inward conversion that God has done in our heart by faith.  It is a physical act, a physical ceremony that depicts an awesome spiritual reality. Now, in and of itself, Baptism doesn’t save you.  It’s your faith in Christ that does that.  And if you haven’t given your life to Christ and you get Baptized, you’re just getting wet.  Baptism, you see, is a beautiful picture of our salvation.  It also beautifully pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. It symbolizes the washing away of our sins and new life.  We are ready any service, any Sunday for your Baptism.  Typically, we have 2 very large Beach Baptisms over the Summer.  If you are ready to get Baptized, you simply need to let us know when.  You can do that 1 of 3 ways:  respond to this email, sign up on your Connect Card any Sunday, or sign up on our website.  We will follow up with you and get it scheduled as soon as possible.  

Maybe you’re new to our church and your next step is our Newcomer’s Reception (see below).  Maybe you’ve been coming to Coastal for a while and you’re ready to officially make our church family, YOUR church family.  Then your next step is our Membership Class (see below).  And guess what?  Whatever your next step might be, we are honored to walk on this journey with you!

One last thing Coastal – I have a favor to ask of you.  We say all the time that we are willing to do anything short of sin to reach people.  I want to put that to the test.  If you’ve been to church the last two weeks, you know that the second service (10am) is PACKED!  In fact, if you come in late to that service, it’s getting hard to find a seat.  With our current 3 services, our church can grow to a church of around 1500.  But for that to happen, we need some people in the 10am service to go to either the 8:30am service or the 11:30am service.  Now, most importantly, come to church!  If, for some reason, the 10am service is the only service you can come to, then we’ll see you at 10am.  And if you’ve got friends coming, you come to whatever service is convenient for them. Also, if you serve at 8:30am or 11:30am, come to the 10am. But if at all possible, start coming to the earlier or later services to make room for others.   And as always, please sit to the front and center of each section.  This makes it easier on our ushers trying to find seats for people.  And please continue to park as far away as possible, using Oakland Elementary School’s parking lot down the first drive just past the Greenway.  Coastal, these are all great “problems” to have.  Honestly, they’re not problems at all – they’re opportunities.  They’re opportunities for God to see where our priorities are at and if we’re willing to do anything it takes to reach people for Jesus!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Today, Friday, January 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Wednesday, January 24th, 12pm-3pm.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 25th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, January 26th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, January 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, February 2nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. As we begin 2024, we are having a Coastal Kidz volunteer training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers. This will be a time of fellowship, planning, brainstorming, and vision casting as we continue to make Coastal Kidz an amazing place for children to learn about God’s love and His Son Jesus as they grow to become faithful followers of Christ.
   
   We are offering the training twice: This Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM or Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM. You only need to attend one. Childcare and dinner are provided.
   
   Please RSVP for which training you will attend and if you need childcare:
   
   Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM 
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cVI2R1hEZ0p6TU09
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=SEYvR1RWZjVycjg9
   
   Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bGVSY21UUFJoQWc
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=NUZRblVzNW5TTnM9
   
3. Attention All Homeschool Families:  We’re having a Valentines Homeschool Mingle on Friday, February 9th, 10am-12pm.  There will be crafts, food (pizza), and fellowship – you’ll get to meet and hang out with other Homeschool families!  This is not a drop-off event, but a time for the whole family. Please RSVP through Natalie Faust at either 443-907-2400 or njudway@gmail.com.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, February 25th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website or on your Connect Card and indicate if you need childcare!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Attention all LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person TOMORROW, Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.  If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org

WOW!  We had an incredible start to the New Year at Coastal!  We kicked off a new series called, “Alignment.”  During the series we’re looking at five prayers, that when you pray them, you can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God will always answer them with a resounding, “YES!”  Last week we talked about the Eternal Prayer, the prayer of salvation.  We had 1090 people in-person and another 928 people online!  We had 11 people renew their commitment to Jesus, 3 people gave their life to Jesus, and 3 people were Baptized during the services!  It truly was an amazing day!

This Sunday we’ll be talking about the “Restoration Prayer.”  It’s the prayer a believer prays when he or she has blown it, has sinned in what some would consider a “big way,” and now comes to their senses and wants to come home.  It’s a prayer of humble repentance.  To help you prepare for Sunday’s message I would encourage you to read Psalms 51:1-12.  This is the prayer of restoration that David cried out to God when his sin of adultery and murder was brought to light.  I really believe that this Sunday is going to be powerful.  Don’t miss it and do whatever you can to invite and bring people with you.

I also want to give you a little heads up on our next series that we’ll be kicking off on Sunday, February 18th called, “Financial Freedom.”  I’ve been the Pastor of Coastal for over 33 years, and I realize that every time the word “finances” or “money” comes up in the church, some people get nervous.  But quite frankly, we need this.  Our country needs this.  So many people today are under financial stress.  Poll after poll lists financial stress as one of the leading causes of divorce in our country.  Our church needs this.  Week after week, we get prayer requests turned in related to money, debt, and finances.  And so we need to talk about this.  I really believe that God is going to do some amazing things here in our church during this series.  A lot of people are going to begin digging out of the financial mess they’re in and pay down a lot of debt, marriages are going to healed, and people are going to be set free.  Believe it or not, historically, any time we do a series on finances, we see a lot of decisions and a lot of salvations.  Why is that you ask?  Because ultimately, money and finances are a heart issue.  Jesus said, “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”  

But trust me, we’re going to go out of our way to communicate, express, and share the generosity, help, and resources of our church to everyone who walks through our doors.  In fact, let me share with you a few special things we’re going to do during this series.  First of all, for EVERYONE who comes to Coastal during this series we’re going to provide all of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Resources!  During one of the weeks of the series, when we talk about getting out of debt, we’re going to give away $1000 in each service to help pay down someone’s debt.  On the Sunday we talk about living generously, we’re going to do a “reverse offering”!  I’ll explain more about it later, but instead of putting money IN the blue offering buckets when they are passed, everyone will take OUT an envelope from the offering buckets.  In those envelopes will be random denominations of money.  Some might have $5, $10, or $20.  Some might have $50 or $100.  No matter the amount a person receives, we’re asking everyone to think of a creative way to use it to be a blessing.  Now, if someone simply needs the money to personally meet a need, by all means, use it.  But what we’re really excited about is to hear about all the seeds of love that are going to be planted!  Some of you might get together with your LIFE Group or friends and pool your money together and do something really cool!  And then, on top of all that, I want to go ahead and encourage you to think about joining the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace LIFE Group that we are going to be offering this semester! It will be Monday nights, 6:30pm, at the church, starting February 19th.  You’ll be able to sign up once the LIFE Group Catalog comes out.  As you can see, this is going to be a series on Finances LIKE NO OTHER!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, January 12th;  Monday, January 15th;  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, January 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, January 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, January 16th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, January 17th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, January 18th, 6-8:30pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, January 19th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. As we begin 2024, we are having a Coastal Kidz volunteer training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers. This will be a time of fellowship, planning, brainstorming, and vision casting as we continue to make Coastal Kidz an amazing place for children to learn about God’s love and His Son Jesus as they grow to become faithful followers of Christ.
   
   We are offering the training twice: 
   Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM or Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM. You only need to attend one. Childcare and dinner are provided.
   
   Please RSVP for which training you will attend and if you need childcare:
   
   Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM 
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cVI2R1hEZ0p6TU09
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=SEYvR1RWZjVycjg9
   
   Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bGVSY21UUFJoQWc9
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=NUZRblVzNW5TTnM9
3. Attention All Homeschool Families:  We’re having a Valentines Homeschool Mingle on Friday, February 9th, 10am-12pm.  There will be crafts, food (pizza), and fellowship – you’ll get to meet and hang out with other Homeschool families!  Please RSVP through Natalie Faust at either 443-907-2400 or njudway@gmail.com.
   
4. Okay Coastal, this Sunday, January 14th, is the last day to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  I can’t wait to see what the final amount will be – in other words, what God has done through YOU!  I will make the announcement in next week’s Friday 5 and in church next Sunday!  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
   Speaking of Giving, your Year-End Giving Statements will be emailed out in mid January.  Text the keyword “ME” to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org. 
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Attention all LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.  If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org.

P.S.S. Speaking of Finances and Generosity, I wanted to make you aware of something our church (YOU) has been doing this past year.  We are so serious and intentional about making a difference in people’s personal finances, that not only did we purchase a Ramsey Site License for our church that enables us to give away resources, but we also Sponsored two local High Schools (St. Johns & West Ashley) here in Charleston County that enabled them to teach Dave Ramsey’s Personal Finances to their Students.  Both schools had 60+ students this year!  

Here are just a couple of quotes from the students who actually took the class:

“Learning about personal finance is important and I learned how to make a good budget and how to save up for things without getting into debt.”

 “This will help me to eventually be successful and purchase a car, house, and other items using cash instead of relying on credit cards.”  

“I worked to save for a car from the age of 13 to 15. This helped to take stress off of my parents and at the age of 16 I got my car.” 

Again, Coastal, we could not do ALL that we do in the community and the world without YOU and your consistent generous giving!  Thank you!  Together, we are making a true IMPACT!

ALIGNMENT.  What comes to mind when you hear that word?  Maybe you’re driving down the highway and as your speed reaches 50mph you notice your car has a little shake.  Alignment.  You’re driving down beautiful Ashley River Road with towering oak trees just a few feet from the road and you notice your car has a slight drift to the right.  Alignment.  You went to see family over the holidays and you slept on a sleeper sofa.  Alignment – haha!

Well, beginning this Sunday, the first Sunday of the new year, we’re going to be kicking off a 5 week series called, “Alignment.”  In some ways, this is a series on prayer.  But I promise this is not like any series on prayer that we’ve ever done before.  Because during this series, I’m not going to talk about what prayer is, or why prayer is important, or even why you should be praying more.   No, in this series, I want to share with you five prayers, that when you pray them, you can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God will always answer them with a resounding, “YES!”  

Really this series is all about alignment – aligning our lives with God’s plan, God’s will, and God’s word.  If we’re honest, much of our prayer life is just reminding God of our problems – praying through our problems.  Now, listen, pray through your problems with God.  Share your struggles.  Share the desires of your heart.  God wants you to do all of that.  There’s nothing wrong with that.  But, He wants more than that for you.  He wants alignment.  He wants you and I to align our lives with His plan, His purposes, His will, and His word.  An immature person ONLY prays through their problems.  They just ask for things.  They’re not thinking about alignment, aligning their life with God’s best or God’s will.  

But the mature believer, when they pray, they’re not just praying through their problems, they’re praying through God’s promises.  And when we do that, when we align our lives with His word and we pray His promises, the answer is always YES!  1 John 5:14-15, “And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.  And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.”  And that’s what this series is all about!  Don’t miss it!  And don’t forget that we’re back to our normal service times: 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

Happy New Year!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Today, Friday, January 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Today, Friday, January 5th & 12th;  Monday, January 8th & 15th;  9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Tomorrow, Saturday, January 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, January 9th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, January 11th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, January 12th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, January 13th, 10:30am-1:30pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, January 16th, 12pm-3pm.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. As we begin 2024, we are having a Coastal Kidz volunteer training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers. This will be a time of fellowship, planning, brainstorming, and vision casting as we continue to make Coastal Kidz an amazing place for children to learn about God’s love and His Son Jesus as they grow to become faithful followers of Christ.
   
   We are offering the training twice: Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM or Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM. You only need to attend one. Childcare and dinner are provided.
   
   Please RSVP for which training you will attend and if you need childcare:
   Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM 
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cVI2R1hEZ0p6TU09
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=SEYvR1RWZjVycjg9
   
   Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bGVSY21UUFJoQWc9
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=NUZRblVzNW5TTnM9
   
3. Coastal Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) is back on beginning this Sunday night, January 7th!  Doors are open at 5pm and service is from 5:30-7pm!  Parents, make sure your Student and their friends are here!
   
4. There are 2 weeks (this week & January 14th) left to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  Much of our Outreach is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  Among other things we are using the offering to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
   Speaking of Giving, your Year-End Giving Statements will be mailed out in mid January.  Text the keyword “ME” to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Saturday, February 17th, from 9am-12pm, in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Breakfast & childcare provided!

P.S. Attention all LIFE Group Leaders & Assistants:  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.  If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org

Happy New Year everyone – well almost!  2024 is just about here!  But guess what?  No matter what 2024 brings, Jesus is still on the throne, God is still in control, and our mission is still the same: “to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!” 

I sincerely hope you and your family have had a wonderful Christmas!  And let me say how awesome our Christmas Eve services were at Coastal!  We had our largest Christmas Eve services ever  – 1594 people in person!  I want to thank all of our volunteers who served so joyfully!  We could not do what we do without you!  I especially want to thank all of our Tech Team & Worship Team who came very early and were here for all 4 services over 2 days!  There is just something special about lighting candles and worshipping together.  (If you’re available, we’ll be taking down all of our Christmas decorations this Tuesday at 9am.  We could use your help!)

Don’t forget that we only have 2 in-person services this Sunday – 10am & 11:30am (no 8:30am services).  But you’re not going to want to miss it.  I’ll be preaching from one of our foundational passages at Coastal – Luke 15.  If you get a chance, read the chapter in advance and see if you can find at least 3 common threads in the stories that Jesus tells.  Not only will Sunday will be a great opportunity to look back at 2023, but it will help focus our vision for 2024!  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  Hold on to your fork Coastal – the best is yet to come!

Happy New Year!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Today, Friday, December 29th, 4-6pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   “Un-Decorate our Campus:  On Tuesday, January 2nd, come over to the church at 9am and help us take down all of our trees and decorations! 
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, January 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, January 5th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, January 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. As we begin 2024, we are having a Coastal Kidz volunteer training for all Coastal Kidz adult and student volunteers. This will be a time of fellowship, planning, brainstorming, and vision casting as we continue to make Coastal Kidz an amazing place for children to learn about God’s love and His Son Jesus as they grow to become faithful followers of Christ.
   
   We are offering the training twice: Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM or Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM. You only need to attend one. Childcare and dinner are provided.
   
   Please RSVP for which training you will attend and if you need childcare:
   
   Sunday, January 21, 5:00PM – 7:00PM 
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=cVI2R1hEZ0p6TU09
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=SEYvR1RWZjVycjg9
   
   Wednesday, January 31, 6:30PM – 8:30PM
   Training Session: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bGVSY21UUFJoQWc
   Childcare: https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=NUZRblVzNW5TTnM9
   
3. Coastal Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) is off for the Holidays! Their first gathering in the new year will be Sunday night, January 7th (doors open at 5pm and service is from 5:30-7pm)!
   
4. There are 3 weeks left to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  Much of our Outreach is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  Among other things we are using the offering to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
   Speaking of Giving, your Year-End Giving Statements will be mailed out in mid January.  Text the keyword “ME” to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org. 
   
5. ATTENTION Young Adults! Join us at the PASSION Conference on January 3-5 in Atlanta, GA for an unbelievable lineup of speakers, musicians, and more!  We will be joining up with 60,000 other young adults from around the globe!  The deadline to reserve your spot is TODAY, Friday, December 29th.   Click HERE to see the details and how to pay/reserve your spot today!  If you have any questions, reach out to Scott Huff.

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.

So, are you ready for Christmas?  Well, ready or not, it’s ALMOST here!  Which means of course, that our Christmas Eve Services are almost here!  This year we’re having 4 Christmas Eve services – Saturday, December 23rd, 4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th)! I hope you are ready to invite & bring your friends!  Remember, it’s not too late to invite someone.  Make the ask!  What’s the worst thing that could happen?  Better yet – what’s the BEST thing that could happen?  Think through all your contacts – social media, work, neighbors, friends, family – and invite them to come!

Also, Christmas Eve services are one of those times where it is “all hands on deck.”  In other words, if you serve in ministry and you’re not out of town, we NEED YOU TO SERVE.  Contact your Ministry Leader and let them know which services you are available ASAP.  Every ministry needs plenty of volunteers (and extra volunteers) to pull off Christmas Eve and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Pray for me & my message.  Pray that people give their lives to Jesus and get saved!  Pray for our Worship Team that they would lead people to worship Jesus.  Pray for all our Ministry Volunteers, that they would serve Jesus by serving others.

Here are a few other important reminders:

– Be helpful, friendly and welcoming to all our guests!

– Introduce yourself & talk to people you don’t know.

– This is important – park over at Oakland to make more room for guests.  The further away you park, the better.

– Fill out your Connect Card.  This encourages others to do the same. 

– Sit to the front & center of each section of the auditorium.

– Coastal Kidz (Birth-5th Grade) will be fully operational during all 4 services.

– If you are serving during a service, PLEASE COME EARLY. 

– Our V.I.P. Volunteer meeting will be at 3:30pm on Saturday and Sunday in the Gathering Space as usual.

Don’t forget that our entire offering on Christmas Eve (all 4 services) will go toward our Christmas Offering!  Prayerfully consider what you and your family can give.  You might also consider making a year-end sacrificial gift. 

Well, I think that’s about it.   For those of you who are traveling or out of town – HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!  Safe travels and please keep us in your prayers!  And remember, if you can’t make it in person, you will be able to watch all of our services live online.  Can’t wait to see the rest of you and your guests over the weekend!  Also, please note that we will only have 2 Services on Sunday morning, December 31st (New Year’s Eve), 10am & 11:30am.  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

Merry Christmas Eve!
Pastor Chris 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Today, Friday, December 22nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 28th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, December 29th, 4-6pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, January 5th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, January 5th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, January 6th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Don’t forget, we’re having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!  During all 4 services our Coastal Kidz are encouraged to wear their PJ’s and enjoy pizza and a Christmas Movie with a message!  
   
   Also, please note that we will only have 2 Services on Sunday morning, December 31st (New Year’s Eve), 10am & 11:30am.
   
3. Coastal Student Ministry (6th-12th Grade) is off for the Holidays! Their first gathering in the new year will be Sunday night, January 7th (doors open at 5pm and service is from 5:30-7pm)!
   
4. There are 4 weeks left to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  Much of our Outreach is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Our goal is $125,000 and right now we are over half-way to our goal.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  Among other things we are using the offering to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
   Speaking of Giving, your Year-End Giving Statements will be mailed out in mid January.  Text the keyword “M”E to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. ATTENTION Young Adults! Join us at the PASSION Conference on January 3-5 in Atlanta, GA for an unbelievable lineup of speakers, musicians, and more!  We will be joining up with 60,000 other young adults from around the globe!  The deadline to reserve your spot is Friday, December 29th.   Click HERE to see the details and how to pay/reserve your spot today!  If you have any questions, reach out to Scott Huff.

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.

Are you ready for this?!  Christmas is just 10 days away!  I hope you’re as excited as I am!  I also hope you’re praying about who you’re going to invite and bring to one of our 4 Christmas Eve services – Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th)!  By the way, keep praying, but it’s time to actually start inviting!  Reach out to friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers.  What’s the worst thing that could happen?  They say no.  What’s the best thing that could happen?  They come, they hear the Gospel, they receive Christ, and their lives are forever changed!  That’s why we do what we do!  That’s what Christmas is all about!

I’m also excited about tomorrow – Christmas at Charleston Vets!  We meet in the Gather Space tomorrow, Saturday, December 16th, at 10am.  Consider coming early at 9am for chair set-up. Even if you’ve never done chairs before, we can make you an expert in just a matter of minutes!  After a few minutes of discussing how the day is going to go, we will load a bunch of supplies & food on the trucks, pray, and then carpool over to Charleston Vets (parking is somewhat limited). We should be finished with the project around 2pm.

We’ve got some exciting things planned for the veterans. We’re going to be offering a home cooked BBQ meal with all the sides!  By the way, if you have signed up to provide one of the sides, we need those items at the church, hot & ready to serve between the hours of 8am & 9:15am. We’ll be standing by at the glass auditorium doors. We’ll meet you at your car with a cart to move your items inside. Please be advised that any food that isn’t prepared and ready to serve won’t be used at the event. We simply won’t have time to cook or reheat any food items. Thank you in advance for your help with this.

We’re going to be providing every veteran a stocking full of goodies, and Christmas gifts! We’ll be setting up a hot chocolate and coffee bar, Christmas music, a visit from Santa and more! We’re going to have a great time. Whereas we will need your help in all these areas, it’s important to stress the point that the most important job of all is the interaction with the veterans. In fact, there will likely be more of us than those we’ll be serving. However, we’re going to flood and saturate Charleston Vets with the love of Christmas and of Coastal!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 

Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, December 15th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
Packing & Staging Christmas at Charleston Vets:  Come help us get everything ready for our Christmas Party out at Charleston Vets!  TODAY, Friday, December 15th, 6-7pm, at the church.
Christmas Party at Charleston Vets:   It’s a Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, stockings, and coffee & hot chocolate bar.  This will largely be the only Christmas these veterans will get.  In other words, Coastal is Charleston Vet’s Christmas.  Saturday, December 16th, 10am-2pm. Meet at the church. (see above for more info)
Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, December 19th, 12pm-3pm.
VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, December 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, December 21st, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, December 22nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.

As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, December 15th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Packing & Staging Christmas at Charleston Vets:  Come help us get everything ready for our Christmas Party out at Charleston Vets!  TODAY, Friday, December 15th, 6-7pm, at the church.
   Christmas Party at Charleston Vets:   It’s a Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, stockings, and coffee & hot chocolate bar.  This will largely be the only Christmas these veterans will get.  In other words, Coastal is Charleston Vet’s Christmas.  Saturday, December 16th, 10am-2pm. Meet at the church. (see above for more info)
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, December 19th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, December 20th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, December 21st, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, December 22nd, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Don’t forget, we’re having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!  During all 4 services our Coastal Kidz are encouraged to wear their PJ’s and enjoy pizza and a Christmas Movie with a message!  
   
   Also, please note that we will only have 2 Services on Sunday morning, December 31st (New Year’s Eve), 10am & 11:30am.
   
3. The final CSM for this calendar year is December 17th and we have a fun Christmas party planned!  Make sure your student brings a gift (no more than $10) for this event which will take place during normal youth hours (doors open at 5pm and service is from 5:30-7pm)! WE WILL PROVIDE DINNER FOR OUR STUDENTS THIS WEEK!!!
   
4. There are 5 weeks left to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  Much of our Outreach is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Our goal is $125,000 and right now we are just under half-way to our goal.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  Among other things we are using the offering to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
   Speaking of Giving, your Year-End Giving Statements will be mailed out in mid January.  Text the keyword “M”E to 843-571-1777 to view and update your contact information.  If you have any questions, please reach out to our Financial Administrator, Kathy at finance@coastalcommunitychurch.org.
   
5. ATTENTION Young Adults! Join us at the PASSION Conference on January 3-5 in Atlanta, GA for an unbelievable lineup of speakers, musicians, and more!  We will be joining up with 60,000 other young adults from around the globe!  Click HERE to see the details and how to pay/reserve your spot today!

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.

WOW – what a great kick off to “Christmas at Coastal” this past Sunday!  All the decorations were a huge hit, we had a big crowd (955), lots of guests, a Newcomer’s Reception, our new Coastal Christmas ornament (still have plenty if you didn’t get one), and we had our 113th Baptism of the year!  It just doesn’t get any better than that!

This Saturday, TOMORROW, there are 3 great serving opportunities.  First of all, we are Tailgating downtown at Joseph Floyd Manor.  In addition to our normal tailgating fun, we’ll be doing a couple of special “Christmas things” – providing a stocking with goodies, and a coffee & hot chocolate bar for all the residents!  If you are interested in serving, you can sign up online, and meet at the church at 10am.

Next, we are providing a Children’s Craft Station at two large neighborhoods in West Ashley (Boltlon’s Landing AND Carolina Bay) for their Christmas Festivals!  For the Bolton’s Landing project (10am-1pm), we’ll meet at the church at 9am.  For the Carolina Bay project (2pm-5pm) we’ll meet at the Carolina Bay Park at 1pm.  Not only is this a great opportunity to represent Coastal and to love on a neighborhood in West Ashley, but it’s also an opportunity to invite people to our Christmas Eve services!  Sign up for either project online.

And then, on Saturday, December 16th, we’re hosting Christmas at Charleston Vets!  It’s a Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, stockings, and coffee & hot chocolate bar.  This will largely be the only Christmas these veterans will get. In other words, Coastal is Charleston Vet’s Christmas.

And as always, you guys never cease to amaze me!  The food for this event has already been accounted for and ALL the Gift Tags have been taken from the Gift Tag Tree.  If you took a Gift Tag, please return the gifts, unwrapped with the gift tag from the tree, no later than Wednesday, December 13th.  But there are two ways left to help: 

1.  Link for Stocking Stuffers Signup

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-46334575-christmas

2.  Signup to serve at the event (or any of our other outreach events)! coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions

A couple more exciting things:  On Monday and Tuesday of this coming week, we’re meeting with LS3P (our Architects) as we begin to make plans for our next building – a worship space that will seat approximately 1000 people!  And finally, Aly Huggins is our new Assistant Children’s Director, working alongside my wife Janet.  She was already serving in Coastal Kidz as our Elementary Coordinator and now she’s moving into this new role.   Exciting stuff!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas:  TODAY, Friday, December 8th, 8:30am-11am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, December 8th & Friday, December 15th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Joseph Floyd Manor Tailgate: Saturday, December 9th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then head downtown to put on a Tailgate for the residents of Joseph Floyd Manor.
   Bolton’s Landing Holiday Market Serve Team: Saturday, December 9th, 9am-1pm.  We’re setting up tents and tables with Christmas Crafts for the children of Bolton’s Landing.  Meet at the church.
   Carolina Bay Christmas Festival Serve Team: Saturday, December 9th, 1pm-5pm.  We’re setting up tents and tables with Christmas Crafts for the children/families of Carolina Bay.  Meet at the park at Carolina Bay.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, December 12th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, December 14th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Packing & Staging Christmas at Charleston Vets:  Come help us get everything ready for our Christmas Party out at Charleston Vets!  Friday, December 15th, 6-7pm, at the church.
   Christmas Party at Charleston Vets:   It’s a Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, stockings, and coffee & hot chocolate bar.  This will largely be the only Christmas these veterans will get.  In other words, Coastal is Charleston Vet’s Christmas.  Saturday, December 16th, 10am-2pm. Meet at the church.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, December 19th, 12pm-3pm.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Don’t forget, we’re having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!  During all 4 services our Coastal Kidz are encouraged to wear their PJ’s and enjoy pizza and a Christmas Movie with a message!
   
3. There is a Coastal Security Team Meeting TOMORROW, Saturday, December 9th, 10:30am-11:30am at the church.  This meeting is for all current Security Team Members or those interested in serving.  Lunch (hamburgers & hotdogs) provided immediately following the meeting.  Please email Brigette Callahan to let us know you plan on attending.
   
4. Don’t forget to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  Much of our Outreach is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Our goal is $125,000.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  Among other things we are using the offering to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and then follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”
   
5. There will be two informational meetings with Q&A in between services in the Chapel THIS Sunday, December 10th. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2024!

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.  Training for new Spring LIFE Group Leaders will be offered in-person on Tuesday, January 16th, 6:30-8pm or Saturday, January 20th, 9-10:30am.  Returning Leader’s Training will be online on Thursday, January 25th, 8-8:45pm.  All Leaders only need to attend one session.  RSVP on your Connect Card.

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas” – at Coastal that is!  I can’t wait for you to see our campus over the weekend!  You’re definitely going to want to get a family picture!  

There  are so many exciting things happening at Coastal:

– First of all, tomorrow is SATURDAY SERVE!  Show up at Coastal at 8:30am, hear a “pitch” from the Leaders of 8 different projects, choose where you want to be the hands and feet of Jesus, and then go serve!  I seriously can’t think of a better way to start the Christmas season!  

– And then on Sunday, we kick off our “Christmas at Coastal” series!  Over the next 3 weeks we’re using the 3 different “angelic encounters” (Zechariah & Elizabeth, Mary & Joseph, the Shepherds) to tell the Christmas story.  As always, you won’t want to miss it!  This Sunday also happens to be “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day” (see below).

– On Saturday, December 9th, there are 3 more serving opportunities.  You can serve on a Tailgate at Joseph Floyd Manor.  Or you can help with a Children’s Christmas Craft Station at either Bolton’s Landing or Carolina Bay.  If you live in either neighborhood, we’d especially love your help (see details below).  The cool part is that both neighborhoods reached out to our church to help.  Of course, we said yes!  

– On Saturday, December 16th, we’re hosting Christmas at Charleston Vets!  It’s a Christmas Party with music, a home-cooked meal, Christmas gifts, stockings, and coffee & hot chocolate bar.  This will largely be the only Christmas these veterans will get. In other words, Coastal is Charleston Vet’s Christmas.

Here are some specific ways you can help with Christmas at Charleston Vets:

1.  Link for Meal Signup (We’re providing pulled pork BBQ)

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-46306447-christmas

2.  Link for Stocking Stuffers Signup

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050E45A5A92FA0F58-46334575-christmas

3.  Christmas at Charleston Vets “Gift Tag Tree” in the lobby, outside the auditorium on Sunday, December 3rd and December 10th. Secure a tag with “wish list items” for veterans at Charleston Vets. Return the gifts, unwrapped with the gift tag from the tree, no later than Wednesday, December 13th. Volunteers will be available at the tree, at all three services on the 3rd and the 10th to help with questions and assisting with signing up.

4.  Signup to serve at the event (or any of our other outreach events)! coastalcommunitychurch.org/missions

– 4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).  Please be in touch with your LIFE Team Leaders about serving!

– And finally, during all of this, don’t forget to give to this year’s Annual Christmas Offering!  As you can see, there is so much Outreach that happens at Coastal.  Much of it is funded every year through our Christmas Offering.  Our goal is $125,000.  What we’ve  discovered is that we reach our goal when EVERYONE participates.  We can’t all give the same amount, but we can all make a sacrifice.  Every gift counts, every gift matters.  When you give, simply use the keyword, “Christmas.”  

Coastal, let’s leverage this season and all the miracles associated with it!  Invite & bring a friend each week of this series and on Christmas Eve.  Invite someone to come and serve our community with you.  Let’s make this the best Christmas ever!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS: 
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, December 1st;  Monday, December 4th; Friday, December 8th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, December 2nd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, December 8th, 8:30am-11am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, December 8th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Joseph Floyd Manor Tailgate: Saturday, December 9th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then head downtown to put on a Tailgate for the residents of Joseph Floyd Manor.
   Bolton’s Landing Holiday Market Serve Team: Saturday, December 9th, 9am-1pm.  We’re setting up tents and tables with Christmas Crafts for the children of Bolton’s Landing.  Meet at the church.
   Carolina Bay Christmas Festival Serve Team: Saturday, December 9th, 1pm-5pm.  We’re setting up tents and tables with Christmas Crafts for the children/families of Carolina Bay.  Meet at the park at Carolina Bay.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. This Sunday is “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!”  That’s right, on Sunday, December 3rd, come to Coastal in your “ugliest” Christmas Sweater (or just fun, festive Christmas attire)!  It’s going to be a lot of fun, and we’ll even have a gift for you!  Don’t forget, we’re having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).
   
3. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday, December 7th, 6-9pm in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is THIS Sunday, December 3rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
5. There will be two informational meetings with Q&A in between services in the Chapel on Sunday, Dec. 10. Please stop by to meet with Pastor Scott and hear about the trip, cost, and dates for our Peru Mission Trip in 2024!

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.

I just want to take a moment to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving and tell you how very thankful I am for you and for the privilege and honor of being your Pastor.  Paul’s words in Philippians 1:3 are very real to me, “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.”

Each year brings with it ups and downs, joys and sorrows, big & small changes – and 2023 has been no exception.  Through it all, it is my prayer that we are a grateful people and just a little bit more like Jesus.  It is my prayer, that in the midst of all the hustle and bustle of today and this weekend, that you will choose to see all the blessings in your life and be reminded that the greatest of those is that you belong to Jesus!  

Read Ephesians 1:3-8 and be reminded of just some of your blessings today: “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.  Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.  God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.  So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.  He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.  He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding.”  

Whether you and your family are here in Charleston or out of town this weekend, I hope to see you at Coastal on Sunday – in-person or online!  We begin decorating our facility for Christmas next week and kick off our “Christmas at Coastal” series on Sunday, December 3rd.  Take advantage of this season and this series and invite your friends to church! 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Pastor Chris

P.S. This weekend & the week ahead will see the largest traffic of onlline shopping of the year!  While you’re shopping, don’t forget that you can also GIVE ONLINE.  You can give through our website, or TEXT the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions. This would be a great weekend to give to our Christmas Offering!  Simply use the keyword, “Christmas.”

On Monday of this week, we delivered over 900 Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child to the local OCC distribution site!  Your love and generosity never cease to amaze me!  On Tuesday, while our Volunteers were serving at Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution, I had the privilege of sharing with their organization’s leaders that, as a result of our Christmas Offering, our church was going to fully fund half of next year’s Food Distribution (6 of the 12).  To say that they were excited and grateful is an understatement!  Yesterday, we reached out to Mike Kennedy with the New Life Children’s Home in Peru and told him that we’re planning on sending them $10,000 from our Christmas Offering.  Again, I wish you could hear the excitement and gratitude in his response!

So Coastal, it’s now time to start giving!  To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift over the next 9 weeks (starting this Sunday, Nov. 19th – Jan. 14th) at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services (Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm).  Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.  Again, this year’s goal is $125,000!  The money will be going to purchase another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, a Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  If you have any  questions, don’t hesitate to ask.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.”

Tomorrow (Saturday) morning at 11am out at Folly Beach, I’ll be taking a “polar plunge” and Baptizing at least another 5 people (we’ve already Baptized 105 people this year)!  Not only would I love for you to come out and celebrate with these people, but if you’d like to join them and get Baptized, please respond to this email and let me know.  We’ll be at the Folly Beach County Park (not the pier).  The only requirement for Baptism is that you’ve given your life to Christ.  It is an act of obedience, a public declaration of your faith.  It beautifully symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  It also symbolizes new life and a washing away of our sins.  Again, if this is your next step, what are you waiting on?  If the beach in November is not your thing, we can be ready any Sunday, any service – just let us know!  

If you haven’t heard yet, we’re having 4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pmI Please note, there will be NO SERVICES on Sunday morning of Christmas Eve, December 24th.  Instead, there will be 4 identical Christmas Eve services spread out over 2 days – 2 on Saturday and 2 on Sunday, both at 4pm & 6pm.  Reach out to your Ministry Leader and start signing up to serve.  Big Days and Special Services mean “all hands on deck.”  Yesterday, we walked through the Christmas Eve Service itself with Pastor Ryan & Tim, our Music Director.  I’ll just say it’s going to very powerful!  You won’t want to miss it!  Please start praying about who you will be inviting and bringing to Coastal!  But don’t wait for Christmas Eve to invite your friends.  This whole Christmas season is a great opportunity to reach out to friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE,
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS
    
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, TODAY, Friday, November 17th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Coffee & Doughnuts at the “Giving Thanks to Veterans” Charity Match –  Saturday, November 18th, 6am-9:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, November 21st, 12pm-3pm.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, November 24th, 4-6pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, December 1st & Monday, December 4th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, December 2nd.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, December 8th, 8:30am-11am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. December is just around the corner!  And it’s not too early to start planning for Coastal’s “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!”  That’s right, on Sunday, December 3rd, come to Coastal in your “ugliest” Christmas Sweater!  It’s going to be a lot of fun, and we’ll even have a gift for you!  We’re also having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).
   
3. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday, December 7th, 6-9pm in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 3rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
5. Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  This Sunday, November 19th is the last day to bring back your gift items for Oakland Elementary School.  You can drop off your items at the kiosk just outside the auditorium.  Thank you in advance for your generosity!

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.

I can’t thank our Worship Team, Tech Team, & Prayer Team enough for an amazing, inspiring, and encouraging Night of Worship!  If you were there (and around 350+ people were!), you know it was just a simple night of worship and response.  We took communion, people prayed together, and 6 more people were Baptized (3 were Baptized on Sunday)!  In fact, we have now Baptized 105 people this year!  On Saturday morning, November 18th, at 11am, I’m going to be Baptizing 4 people out at Folly Beach (their idea).  Yes, it’s November, and yes, the water is going to be cold – but I can’t wait!  If you want to take the “polar plunge” with them and get Baptized out at the Beach, respond to this email to let me know, and I’ll give you the details. 

There is something else exciting getting ready to happen at Coastal that I want to share with you – our 11th Annual Christmas Offering!  Over the years, this offering has made a huge IMPACT on our ministry!  

For example, in the past our Christmas Offering has enabled us to:

– fully fund “Summer of IMPACT”

– dig & power a well for a community in Haiti 

– re-roof our entire building   

– renovate a home for a family on Wadmalaw Island

– fully fund VBS – pay for our Easter Outreach

– Oakland Elementary School Annual T-Shirt

– Student Ministry Camp & Retreat

– Box Trucks for Community Outreach

– renovate our Chapel

– a new 15 passenger Van

– sound equipment

God has used our church and the Christmas Offering to do all of that and so much more!   Well, beginning Sunday, November 19th, through Sunday, January 14th (9 weeks), we are encouraging our entire Coastal family to give above and beyond their regular tithes and offering to this year’s Christmas Offering.  

To give, all you have to do is designate your gift “Christmas” on your check, offering envelope, online, or TEXTing (843-571-1777).  You can give your gift during those 9 weeks (Nov. 19th – Jan. 14th) at any of our regular Sunday morning services, or anytime through TEXTing, or our website.  You might also consider giving it all at once during one of our 4 Christmas Eve Services (Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm).  Our entire Christmas Eve offering will go toward our Annual Christmas Offering.

Why a Special Offering?  It’s a way for us to grow in our faith and to prepare us for what God wants to do through our church in a bigger way in 2024.  It’s a way for us to sacrifice together as a church family and give generously.  Christmas is all about giving.  Many people during this time of year are in fact looking for opportunities to give.  And there is no better place to give than to your local church.

What is our goal and where is the money going?  Our overall goal is $125,000!  Is that a big goal?  Yes!  Can we reach it?  Absolutely!  As always, I am very excited about where this year’s money will be going and the potential Kingdom impact.  The money will be used for another Box Truck for Clothing Distribution, New Life Children’s Home in Peru, VBS, Sudan Mission Trip, & Soldier’s Angels Food Distribution.  The money is also used for Benevolence & General Outreach.  Let me specifically explain each project for this year’s offering:

Box Truck.  We now have 2 Tailgating Box Trucks and 1 Clothing Distribution Box Truck.  To put it simply, we are in need of another Box Truck for giving away clothes.  We still have volunteers using their vans and vehicles to transport clothes.  Another Coastal Box Truck would meet a huge need!

VBS.  VBS at Coastal is AWESOME!  We see hundreds of children and don’t charge a thing.  We don’t see it as an expense.  We see it as an investment – an investment in the next generation, an investment in the Kingdom.

Peru Mission – New Life Children’s Home.  A portion of this year’s Christmas Offering will go to providing Christmas for all the children in the orphanage and their workers.  It will also help cover expenses and salaries for the Children’s Home. 

Sudan – Empower One.  As a church, we are looking at getting involved with a new mission organization called Empower One.  They are planting churches and reaching one of the largest unreached people groups in the world – the Sudan in Africa.  We hope to send a small Team there in 2024.

Soldier’s Angels Monthly Food Distribution.  Through the Low Country Food Bank, Soldier’s Angels provides approximately 70 lbs. of groceries to 200+ local veterans who find themselves facing food insecurity.  Coastal already provides Volunteers each month who help with organizing, sorting, preparing, and loading the food.  We will be footing the bill for half (6) of this year’s Food Distributions!

How much should you give?  Prayerfully consider giving a gift that will stretch your faith and include your whole family.  For some people, coming up with “extra” money is difficult.  We’ve learned that as we give, God provides.  Maybe you decide to give up eating out or buying coffee for 9 weeks and give that money to the Christmas Offering.  Maybe you sell something or have a yard sale.  For some people $1000 above your regular giving is a huge sacrifice.  For others, it’s not.  Someone might decide to cover the whole cost for the Box Truck, VBS, or any of our other projects.  

Just like our Giving Campaigns over the years and all the other Christmas Offerings we’ve done in the past, we can’t all give the same amount, but TOGETHER, we can ALL make a sacrifice.  That’s when God does a miracle, when together we ALL step out in faith. 

Remember, this offering should be over and above what you regularly give.  If you’re not regularly giving (weekly, monthly), use this time of year to start.  If you’re not tithing (10% of your gross income), step out in faith and start tithing.  Reaching this goal will be a celebration of what God can do through us as together we stretch our faith.

Merry Christmas!
Pastor Chris Rollins

PS – If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.  The easiest and fastest way to give to the Christmas Offering is through TEXTing the word “GIVE” to 843-571-1777 and follow the simple instructions.  Just make sure you designate your gift “Christmas.” 

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS 
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  TODAY, Friday, November 10th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, November 10th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: TOMORROW, Saturday, November 11th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, November 14th, 8am-1pm.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, November 15th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, November 16th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, November 16th, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, November 17th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Coffee & Doughnuts at the “Giving Thanks to Veterans” Charity Match –  Saturday, November 19th, 6am-9:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
2. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – Okay everyone, this is it!  This Sunday, November 12th, is the last day to bring back your Operation Chistmas Child Shoeboxes!! 
3. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday, December 7th, 6-9pm in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 3rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
5. Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  ALL tags have been taken.  So now, simply purchase the items and return them to the church (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, November 19th.  Questions?  Contact Rachel at rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Thank you in advance for your generosity!

P.S. We are in the planning stages for our SPRING LIFE GROUPS!  LIFE Groups are the primary vehicle at Coastal for community – learning, friendships, fellowship, and care.  We typically have all different types of Groups – Bible studies, book studies, activity groups, support groups, men’s/women’s groups.  Would you possibly be interested in leading, assisting, or hosting a LIFE Group this new year?  The Spring Semester begins in February and depending on the Group, lasts for 8-12 weeks.  Sign up on your Connect Card or contact Pastor Scott Huff at scotth@coastalcommunitychurch.org if you are interested in leading a Group.

P.S.S. December is just around the corner!  And it’s not too early to start planning for Coastal’s “Ugly Christmas Sweater Day!”  That’s right, on Sunday, December 3rd, come to Coastal in your “ugliest” Christmas Sweater!  It’s going to be a lot of fun, and we’ll even have a gift for you!  We’re also having  4 Christmas Eve Services: Saturday, December 23rd,  4pm & 6pm and Sunday, December 24th, 4pm & 6pm (no Sunday morning services on the 24th).

It’s hard to believe that this week marks TWO YEARS since we’ve been in our new facility!!  Let that sink in for just a moment.  Look at the pictures above – just a small, small sampling during construction.  Our new facility has literally affected almost everything we do in such a positive way, and it gets used almost every day of the week.  Two years ago, during the first 4 weeks in October, our average Coastal Kidz attendance was 104.  This year, those same 4 weeks, Coastal Kidz has averaged 236!  Our overall attendance average 2 years ago during the first 4 weeks of October was 495.  This year, those same 4 weeks, our overall attendance has been 927 (in September we were over 1000 two different times)! All of that in just 2 years!  

What’s funny to me, is that in some ways, we already take all of it for granted – like this is just the way it’s always been.  I understand how that happens, but I never want to do that.  Sure, buildings and facilities are just tools.  But when they are leveraged for ministry and for the Kingdom, they can make a huge IMPACT!  And for me, they also symbolize our faith.  They are something tangible and physical that remind me that a group of people decided to step out in faith and trust God, that we believed that God wasn’t finished with us, that He wants us to keep growing and keep reaching our community, and leave a legacy for the generations to come.  I never want to forget that, and I never want to take any of that or our growth for granted.  

It also reminds me of the generosity of our church, that a group of people dared to believe God with their finances and sacrificially give above and beyond to make it happen!  But do you know what else it reminds me?  That God’s not finished with us, that there is more to be done, there are more people to reach with the Gospel, there are more children to share Jesus with, there are more hurting people to heal, more hungry people to feed, more people to clothe, more lives to change.  

And guess what?  Last week, I had a meeting with LS3P, our architect, to begin the process of planning for our next building phase – a dedicated worship space that seats close to 1000 people and more Coastal Kidz space!  We probably won’t get started on that for at least another year, but we learned a long time ago, that you’ve got to start planning early.  But I can see it!  Can you?  It’s obvious to me that God is not finished with Coastal, and He’s not finished with YOU!  So join us in this mission to share and experience the LIFE and LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world!  Step out in faith and attempt something great for God!  Keep reaching out and inviting your friends and neighbors to join us at Coastal!  Keep giving your money generously and sacrificially to support the vision and mission here!  Keep serving and loving our community with us!  I love you Coastal, I love being your Pastor, and I love what we get to do together!  And I can’t wait to see you Sunday!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS 
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, TODAY, Friday, November 3rd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Chair Set-Up:  Come and help set up our chairs in the auditorium, TOMORROW, Saturday, November 4th, 7:30am. 
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is TOMORROW, Saturday, November 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Blood Drive:  THIS Saturday, TOMORROW, November 4th, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.  Go online and schedule an appointment!  Let’s help our community!
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, November 6th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, November 9th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, November 10th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, November 10th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, November 11th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world!  You guys are AMAZING!  We had 1000 shoeboxes that we were handing out – and they are ALL gone!  So now we’re simply asking you to fill the boxes you took home and then bring them back to the church between now and Sunday, November 12th.  Way to go Coastal! 
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – THIS Wednesday night, November 8th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is Sunday, December 3rd, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
5. Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  ALL tags have been taken.  So now, simply purchase the items, and return them to the church (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, November 19th.  Questions?  Contact Rachel at rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Thank you in advance for your generosity!

P.S. Grief Share will be hosting a free, one night event THIS Monday, November 6th, at 2pm OR 6pm, called, “Surviving the Holidays.”  This event will help you discover how to deal with the difficult emotions of the holiday season, give helpful tips on how to survive social events, and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue Muoio at s.muoio@outlook.comwith questions or register at www.griefshare.org. 

The story goes that when the British and French were fighting in Canada in the 1750s, Admiral Phipps, commander of the British fleet, was told to anchor outside Quebec and to wait for the British land forces to arrive so he could support them when they attacked the city.  As the admiral waited, he became annoyed by the statues of the saints on the towers of a nearby cathedral, and so he commanded his men to shoot at them with the ships’ cannons.  When the signal was finally given to attack, the admiral was  helpless because he had used up all his ammunition shooting at the “saints.”

Unfortunately, the same could be said about a lot Christians today.  God calls on us to do something great for Him, but often we have nothing left to give because we’ve used up all our energy attacking each other.  The Apostle Paul said in Galatians 5:15, “But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.”  

Don’t miss this Sunday as I’ll be wrapping up Romans 14, where the Apostle Paul addresses how Christians relate to each other when it comes to non-essential, debatable issues.  Romans 14:13, “So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall.”  The message here is clear:  love will not put a stumbling block in our brother or sister’s path.  That’s the whole point of this passage.  It all comes down to whether or not we are acting in love.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!  See you Sunday!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Today, Friday, October 27th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, today, Friday, October 27th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Today, Friday, October 27th, 4-6pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Chair Set-Up:  Come and help set up our chairs in the auditorium, TOMORROW, Saturday, October 28th, 8pm.  Many hands make for quick and light work!  Usually Chair Set-Up is in the morning, but because of the CSM Conference it’s in the evening this week – 8pm.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, November 3rd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, November 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   Blood Drive:  On Saturday, November 4th, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.  Check out the insert in your bulletin on Sunday and use the QR Code to schedule an appointment!  Let’s help our community!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world!  You guys are AMAZING!  We had 1000 shoeboxes that we were handing out – and they are ALL gone!  So now we’re simply asking you to fill the boxes you took home and then bring them back to the church between now and Sunday, November 12th.  Way to go Coastal!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, November 8th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. The Way Young Adult Gathering – All young adults (college to 30ish) are invited to join us this Wednesday night in the Chapel at 6:30pm. There will be dinner along with worship, a message, and table discussions with other young adults. Invite a friend and come hang out with us!
   
5. Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  ALL 150 tags have been taken.  So now, simply purchase the items, return them to the church (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, November 19th.  Questions?  Contact Rachel at rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org.  Thank you in advance for your generosity!

P.S. Grief Share will be hosting a free, one night event on Monday, November 6th, at 2pm or 6pm, called, “Surviving the Holidays.”  This event will help you discover how to deal with the difficult emotions of the holiday season, give helpful tips on how to survive social events, and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue Muoio at s.muoio@outlook.com with questions or register at www.griefshare.org. 

This past Sunday, as we are making our way through Romans, we found ourselves at the end of Romans 13 where Paul is telling us to live and love with a sense of urgency.  Romans 13:11-12, “This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here.”  Paul is saying, “Hey!  It’s time to wake up!  You don’t know when Jesus will come again or call you home!  It’s time to be a living sacrifice NOW.  It’s time to be dedicated to God NOW.  It’s time to use your spiritual gifts, it’s time to be rightly related to each other, it’s time to start loving the way God would have us love.  The time is NOW!  Wake up!”

And we don’t know, do we, when Jesus will come again or call us home?  I saw reminders of that truth several times this week alone.  Pastor Scott’s 93 year old Grandpa (Kathy Love’s Dad) passed away.  They left early this morning for his funeral tomorrow in Illinois.  Tracy Gundy’s 49 year old brother, Eric Russo, died this week. He had been in a week long coma from a stroke that was brought on by a slow bleed at his brain stem.  He leaves behind a wife and two children.  I met with Tracy and her family yesterday to talk about his funeral on Monday.  Dawn & Raef Judd were in Tennessee this past weekend visiting her cousin in the hospital who was in serious condition from a freak mountain bike accident.  They were literally getting ready to head home when they found out that her cousin’s brother, who was driving in from Atlanta with his girlfriend, was in a car accident that killed the girlfriend.  They were just 15 minutes from the hospital and now were being brought to that same hospital by ambulance.  All this week, all reminders that we don’t know when our time is up in this life, and God calls us home.

I don’t know when Jesus will return, but I see everything that’s happening in Israel and around the world and wonder if “that day” is soon approaching.  In Matthew 24 Jesus said, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. . . And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. . . Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. . . But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. . .Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”  Peter tells us in 2 Peter 3, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief.”

By the way, please join me in praying for Israel.  In Psalms 122:6-9 David said this, “Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper.  O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces.  For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “May you have peace.”  For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem.”

Again, I don’t know if “that day” is today or even tomorrow.  But I do agree with the Apostle Paul, that it’s time for the people of God, the church, to wake up and live with a sense of urgency.  In 2 Peter 3:14-15, Peter said this, “And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.  And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved.”

I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And until Jesus comes again or calls us home, let’s be faithful in sharing and experiencing the LIFE & LOVE of Jesus with Charleston and the world – so that more people would be saved!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Chair Set-Up:  Come and help set up our chairs in the auditorium, TOMORROW, Saturday, October 21st, 8am.  Many hands make for quick and light work!
   Food Pantry Sort & Stock:  Coastal feeds an enormous amount of people.  Come to the church and help keep our Food Pantry organized (and have a lot of fun while you’re at it)!  Thursday, October 26th, 11:30am-1pm.
   Coffee & Doughnuts with the Vets at Patriot Villas –  Friday, October 27th, 8:30am-11:30am.  Meet at Coastal.
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, October 27th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Downtown Charleston “Hotdog Ministry”:  We will be grilling and serving hotdogs to the homeless and hungry downtown!  Friday, October 27th, 4-6pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Friday, November 3rd, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is Saturday, November 4th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve!
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world!  You guys are AMAZING!  We had 1000 shoeboxes that we were handing out.  As of today, I think we might have about 20 left!  So now we’re simply asking you to fill the boxes you took home and then bring them back to the church between now and Sunday, November 12th.  Way to go Coastal!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, November 8th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. Attention Coastal!  On Saturday, November 4th, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve), our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.  Check out the insert in your bulletin on Sunday and use the QR Code to schedule an appointment!  Let’s help our community!
   
5. Oakland Elementary School Teacher Classroom Wishlist Tags!  Choose a classroom wishlist tag in the Welcome Center (we only have about 40 left), purchase the items, return them to the church (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, November 19th.  Questions?  Contact Rachel at rachel@coastalcommunitychurch.org

P.S. Grief Share will be hosting a free, one night event on Monday, November 6th, at 2pm or 6pm, called, “Surviving the Holidays.”  This event will help you discover how to deal with the difficult emotions of the holiday season, give helpful tips on how to survive social events, and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue Muoio at s.muoio@outlook.com with questions or register at www.griefshare.org.

One of the things I love about our church is its generosity!  We see it in so many ways – our people’s consistent generous giving, all of our Outreach, Giving Campaigns over the years, special offerings (VBS, Christmas), Food Bank, Clothing, Operation Christmas Child, Peru, and just ALL the stuff and resources we give away (too many to name).  One of the ways that generosity is displayed is through our relationship with Oakland Elementary School.  It is a beautiful, special relationship that has been forged over 19 years of serving, giving, and loving.  Just in the last 2 weeks alone we hosted their Fun Run (for the entire school) on our campus, had almost 30 volunteers go through a Training to become Reading Partners at the school, provided clothes for a child in need, and gave earbuds/headphones to an entire grade level.  

Well, one of the things that has become a yearly tradition for us is our Oakland Elementary School Teacher Wishlist Tree/Tags.  The Tree and Tags (pictured above) are located in the Welcome Center in front of the auditorium.  Each tag represents a need in a classroom (paper, pens, notebooks, markers, wipes, snacks, etc. – nothing too expensive).  And if you know Teachers, you know they are notorious for taking care of the needs themselves, making do, or even worse, going without.  We don’t want to let that happen!  And this is what I also know about Teachers: they are so overwhelmed with joyful gratitude for the small act of kindness.  So, pick up aTag or Tags in the lobby this Sunday, purchase the items, and return them (tagged, but not wrapped) by Sunday, November 19th.  We will distribute the items as they come in.  If you have any questions about your items, contact Rachel Speer.  Oh, we are also collecting bags of candy for their Trunk or Treat!  You can drop off the bags of candy between now and Sunday, October 22nd.  Their Trunk or Treat is at the school on Thursday, October 26th, 5pm-7pm, and is open to the community.

One last thing – don’t miss this Sunday!  It’s going to be a special day in the life of our church.  We will be officially recognizing and setting apart 4 new Elders at Coastal:  Chris Ranew, Dustin Speer, Ricky Spell, and Scott Whitaker.  Feel free to reach out to these guys and give them some encouragement! 

I love you Coastal and I love your generous hearts!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love sharing and experiencing the LIFE & LOVE of Jesus with you, here in Charleston and around the world!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there today, Friday, October 13th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Kits:  Today, Friday, October 13th, 6:30-7:30pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: Tomorrow, Saturday, October 14th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   Hope Center Tailgate:  The Hope Center, managed by the city of Charleston, serves as a one-stop shop in downtown Charleston to assist those who are homeless or who are at-risk of being homeless. We’re sending a Tailgate Team to serve dinner to anyone who is hungry. We meet at Coastal on Tuesday, October 17th, 12pm-3pm.
   VA Hospitality Project: This team serves at the VA Hospital in Charleston by providing a hospitality cart, greeting incoming patients and employees, visiting patients, and helping Volunteer Services with small sorting projects.  Wednesday, October 18th, 8:30am-12pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   Patriot Villas Veterans Tailgate & Game Night:  We will be putting on a Tailgate for the Veterans at Patriot Villas on Thursday, October 19th, 6-8pm.  Meet at Coastal.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world!  We are asking our church (YOU) to simply pray and ask God how many shoeboxes He wants you to fill, take home the shoeboxes we provide, pack them as a family, and then bring back your completed boxes to the church between now and Sunday, November 12th.  Our kiosk in the Welcome Center will be filled with the remaining shoeboxes ready to take home each Sunday (until they’re gone).  There will be an insert in the bulletin this Sunday with suggested items to fill the box.  We only have 290 boxes remaining out of the 1000!  Way to go Coastal! 
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, November 8th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. Attention Coastal!  On Saturday, November 4th, 8:30am-1:30pm (during Saturday Serve, our church is hosting a Blood Drive!  The Blood Connection mobile truck will be in our parking lot.  Check out the insert in your bulletin on Sunday and use the QR Code to schedule an appointment!  Let’s help our community!
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday, October 19th, 6-9pm in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

P.S.  We could still use some Small Group Leaders & Host Homes for the Coastal Student Ministry Conference that we’re hosting the weekend of October 27th-29th.  This truly is an opportunity to make an eternal impact in the lives of the next generation for Jesus!  I am trusting and believing that you will respond!  If you have any questions, if you would be interested in being a Host Home, or if you would be willing to be a Small Group Leader, please reach out to Pastor Jacob at jacob@coastalcommunitychurch.org.

I know it might seem crazy talking about Christmas in early October, but if you’ve visited any retail stores the last couple of weeks, Christmas displays are already out.  Well, one of our favorite missions that we support here at Coastal is Operation Christmas Child (OCC) – sharing the love of Jesus and the Good News of the Gospel through gifts & supplies in a simple shoebox for children in troubled countries/areas all around the world.  What we are asking our church (YOU) is to simply pray and ask God how many shoeboxes He wants you to fill, take home the shoeboxes we provide, pack them as a family, and then bring back your completed boxes to the church between now and Sunday, November 12th.  

Our kiosk in the Welcome Center will be filled with the remaining shoeboxes ready to take home each Sunday (until they’re gone).  There will be an insert in the bulletin this Sunday with suggested items to fill the box.  This would be a GREAT opportunity for you to teach your children about generosity, the true meaning of Christmas, and the love of Jesus.  Help us reach our goal of packing over 1000 shoeboxes this year and share the love of Jesus (and the Gospel in their own language) with children all around the world!  Pray about how many boxes your family would be willing to pack, step out in faith, grab a few shoeboxes on Sunday, and help us do just that!

On a personal note, I want to thank everyone for the love shown to my wife Janet while her mom has been in the hospital in North Georgia.  She’s not home from the hospital just yet, but she has definitely improved, and we hope she’ll be home soon.  Her name is Nancy (just like my mom).  Please continue to keep her recovery in your prayers.  I love you Coastal!  I love being your Pastor!  And I love what we get to do together!

LIFE & LOVE!
Pastor Chris

1. UPCOMING OUTREACH PROJECTS:
   
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes today, Friday, October 6th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Saturday Serve:  The foundation of all of our serving opportunities at Coastal really starts with Saturday Serve – the first Saturday of every month.  The next Saturday Serve is tomorrow, Saturday, October 7th.  We meet in the Welcome Center/Cafe at 8:30am, project leaders make a “pitch” for their serving opportunity, and then we serve! 
   Clothing Team: Our Coastal Clothing Team will be organizing and sorting clothes, Monday, October 9th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 2952 Old Pond Road on Johns Island.
   Soldier’s Angels: We’ll be helping with the Veteran’s Mobile Food Distribution, Tuesday, October 10th, 9:30am-11:30am.  Meet at 1113 Sam Rittenburg Blvd. (The Elks Lodge).
   Lowcountry Orphan Relief:  Lowcountry Orphan Relief provides support services and aid to meet the needs of Lowcountry children identified as at-risk or suffering from abandonment, abuse and/or neglect. Coastal will be serving there, Friday, October 13th, 9:30am-11:30am. Meet at 1850 Truxton Ave in North Charleston.
   Ronald McDonald House On the Go Meal Kits:  On Friday, October 13th, 6:30-7:30pm, we will be packing “On the Go Meal/Snack Bags” for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House.  Meet at Coastal.
   Double Tailgate Day: Charleston Vets & Joseph Floyd Manor: Saturday, October 14th, 10am-1pm.  Meet at the church and then pick which Tailgate you’d like to serve.
   
   As always, if you are interested in serving in any of these projects, you can sign up on your Connect Card this Sunday or sign up now on our website.  If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Chris Jones at 843-870-4613.
   
2. If you’re fairly new to Coastal, a great next step is our Newcomers Reception.  Our next Newcomers Reception is this Sunday, October 8th, in our Chapel immediately following the 11:30am service (at approximately 12:45pm).  This is a great way to learn more about Coastal, meet staff and key volunteers, as well as meet some other new people. Pizza and childcare provided. You can sign up on our website today!
   
3. Mark your calendar for our next Coastal Night of Worship – Wednesday night, November 8th, 6:30-8pm!  Invite your friends and family to join us for a night of prayer, worship, and encouragement.  RSVP now for childcare (birth-kindergarten) on your Connect Card.
   
4. Attention Coastal!  Our church is collecting large bags of individually wrapped candy to help with Oakland Elementary School’s Trunk or Treat.  Their Trunk or Treat is Thursday, October 26th, 5pm-7pm, and we are collecting candy beginning this Sunday through, Sunday, October 22nd.  You can drop your candy off at the bin on the kiosk in front of the auditorium.
   
5. Interested in officially making the Coastal church family, your church family? Our next Membership Class is Thursday, October 19th, 6-9pm in the Chapel. You can respond to this email, sign up on our website, or sign up on your Connect Card on Sunday.  Dinner & childcare provided!

P.S. If you live in Carolina Bay, Shadowmoss, Village Green, or one of several other West Ashley neighborhoods that get a monthly neighborhood magazine, make sure you check out our ad for the many Support Groups we offer at Coastal.  One of those Support Groups is “Grief Share.”  They will be hosting one of their annual seminars called, “Surviving the Holidays.”  It’s a free, one time event on Monday, November 6th at 2pm or 6pm that will help participants prepare for difficult emotions this Holiday Season and discover hope for the future.  Contact Sue (616-443-6553) with questions or register today at www.griefshare.org.