XRDS RSS

Crossroads Jazz Party

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 +0200

This year the proceeds will go to a small project on the Ssese Islands in the Victoria Lake, Uganda:

Bery’s place. Bery and team shelter young girls, often sexually abused, and help them finish their school education and find an occupation/training. Currently the project is financed by family means, but the need is (unfortunately) growing and so they are seeking other ways of helping these young women.

UNIQUE DESIGN

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

The course will run for 4 sessions. After you complete it, you can talk with one of the Unique Design consultants about your discoveries. The consultant will help you with practical ways to further develop your gifts. He or she can also give you directions on finding the best place for you to serve both in the church and outside.

When: From 11.00 - 13.00, June 3, 10, 17, 24 and a consultation session on July 1st
Where: Room 105
Cost: 30 Euro.
Sign up: please fill in this form.

If you want more information please contact us us at unique@xrds.nl.

Time to Serve Some Cities Again: 400 Volunteers Wanted!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

Serve the City-looking for 400 volunteers!
You can make a difference in the lives of people in Amsterdam, Haarlem and Utrecht! From the 17th till the 20th of May there will be a new edition of Serve the City. And you and your friends, collegaues, can you want to make a difference in somebodies life!

Who are we?
Serve the City mobilizes volunteers to show kindness in practical ways. Our projects are often simple: sports, music, arts and crafts, painting, serving food and cutting hair. Join hundreds of other Serve the City volunteers and make a difference to people living in cities including your own life.

Join us!
There is an amazing variety of projects to choose to be a part of from 17th till the 20th of May. Go to the website to sign up for a project.

17th-20th of May Amsterdam www.stcamsterdam.nl
17th of May Utrecht www.stcutrecht.nl
19th of May Haarlem www.stchaarlem.nl

Three-Story Evangelism Workshop

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

The 'Three Stories' involve:
1. Listening well to other people, to THEIR story, praying;

2. listening to your own life, finding honest ways to tell YOUR OWN story, (someone can argue with your abstract theology and philosophy, but no one can argue with your personal experience...or with your love for them!);

3. learning to link THEIR story and YOUR story to GOD'S story in the gospel, learning several ways of thinking about the good news of the Gospel, looking for genuine ways to explain it simply but with honesty and depth.

Always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that lives in you; but do it with gentleness and respect. I Peter 3:15

To sign up, please contact Bob Phillips (bob@xrds.nl), or on Sundays at the sign-up table in the lobby.

A Toolkit for Dads

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 +0200

XRDS Women presents: Boundaries – a Biblical view

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

Do you ask yourself questions like:
Can I set limits and still be a loving person?
What if my boundaries upset or hurt someone?
Are boundaries selfish?
Why is it difficult for me to hear no from people?

On Saturday June 16th Ina van ‘t Hoenderdaal will talk about a biblical view of boundaries. She will share some of the basic elements such as: what they are, what they protect, how they are developed, how they are broken, how to repair them and how to use them. We'll also look at how boundaries operate in relationships, in tasks and in your spiritual life.

When: Saturday June 16, 15:30 - 17:30 (coffee at 15:00)
Where: Room 215, Amstelveen College, Startbaan 12
Speaker: Ina van ‘t Hoenderdaal
Cost: Donation
Sign-up: women@xrds.nl

To get the latest information about upcoming Crossroads Women events in your mailbox, email us at women@xrds.nl with topic ”add to database” you will begin to receive our updates which are sent approximately once a month.

Songs of Sunday 13 May 2012

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 +0200

The songs of Sunday 13 May 2012

Hosanna (Praise is rising) - Paul Baloche

Forever Reign - Reuben Morgen, Jason Ingram

10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) - Matt Redman

Refiner's Fire - Brian Doerksen

How great is the love - Paul Baloche & Meredith Andrews

Our God - Chris Tomlin

The Homegoing of Jodi Holzhausen

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

Jodi’s life was filled with exuberance that was visible even in the photos. (See a sampling in the following video.)

It was hard not to smile back and be inspired by the way she lived her life to the full. When she served our community, she had a title that no one has held either before or since as the ‘Fun Elder’, bringing many memorable moments of laughter to our gatherings.

She loved to connect with people and people with each other. Some of us know each other because Jodi introduced us. As we got to know Jodi, we became aware that Jodi not only wanted people to connect with each other, but that she was passionate about connecting people to Jesus, in a natural and joy-filled way. At her last birthday party, she wanted to be sure that her neighbors, her colleagues, her book club friends and her Bible study and church friends knew each other.

Those who were close to Jodi learned what a person of prayer she was. Often when issues came up in conversations, she would pray for us with passion. When Jodi walked her dog, she prayed for those whose houses she passed and for the concerns of the day.

Getting to know Jodi’s story, included realizing that this degree of zest for life and passion to bring the love of Jesus to the world, was given extra passion because of the very serious car accident she experienced as a young women, the joy of having a second chance at life, that was translated into a resolve to life her life to honor God. This led to major investments in youth and missions work in various ways throughout her life.

We are proud that Jodi finished her life well, full of faith and full of love for those around her. And we are proud of Stefan and the children who cared well for her in her years of battle with illness and with great love entrusted her to the care of Jesus.

Cards for the Holzhausen family sent to the Crossroads Ministry Centre will be delivered to their home.

Fam. Holzhausen
Crossroads International Church
Buitenplein 55
1181 ZD Amstelveen

Lets surround them with our prayers and continuing support going forward.

Who's Church?

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0200

22 April 2012 – 1 Thess. 1:1-3
“God’s church”

29 April 2012 – 1 Thess. 1:4-10
“Our church”

6 May 2012 – 1 Thess. 3:6-13
“Passionate church”

13 May 2012 – 1 Thess. 4:1-12
“Pure church”

20 May 2012 – 1 Thess. 4:13-5:11
“Ready church”

27 May 2012 – 1 Thess. 5:16-19 (Pentecost)
“Church on fire”

3 June 2012 – 1 Thess. 5:23-28
“Responding church”

XRDS 15+ Serve Sunday

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The 15+ group has been challenged for six months to get involved in the church and serve the first Sunday of the month! We are part of the body, it's time to function as part of the body. So from this past February to July, there will be no regular 15+ youth gathering the first Sunday of the month. Parents of 15+ youth, if your child is looking for a way to get involved, please email youth@xrds.nl and we will find a way for them, and maybe even yourself, to serve in the church.

If you are not the parent of a 15+ youth, there are ways that you too can be involved in the church and help the body of Christ function. Email us and we would love to get you connected to the right people to help out.

Open U

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Staff Update February 2012

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Also, we've invited Julie Homans, coming to us from Indiana in the States, to join the Management Team, along with Brigitte Makkinje, a long-time Crossroader. This expands expand our team to 5 ministry leaders guiding specific aspects of our congregation to better carry out our mission. Julie is the Ministry Leader of Services, connecting all the aspects of our Sunday gatherings going forward, and Brigitte will focus on helping us develop the Outreach department, including developing local and global opportunities for Crossroaders to serve. We hope you'll take time to greet them as you get a chance.

Welcome to Manuel van Dam, now the team leader of the 12PLUS youth ministry and Jeroen van der Schulp our new Facilities Team Leader. Both come to us with a variety of experiences, including international assignments, to add their gifts to the mix.

You've prayed with us for some time for these positions to be filled. Thank you! You'd be encouraged to see all of the staff at work together.

XRDS SNOW TRIP 2012

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

CROSSROADS COMMUNITY EVENING

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Crossroads Utrecht

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

When: Sunday, March 25 at 16:30
Theme: A Community of colours
Where: Please check our website: www.crossroadsutrecht.nl
What: Worship, teaching and a pot luck dinner
Teenagers and children are welcome, and will have their own activities. No sign-up needed.
More info: info@crossroadsutrecht.nl

Christ is the best for you!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Parents want to help their children build a relationship with God. But how do you do that? Deuteronomy 6: 4-9 can help you. It tells about how your everyday life is the example that you live. This example should practice your believe that Christ is the best for you! Taking care of your own relationship with God helps you to overflow with love for Him.
Children continually listen and watch their parents. They make to form a picture. What kind of a picture do they see from your Christian life? And what differences does it make in their lives? Do you make your child aware of the differences in your life because of God?
Living with God is not always easy, it’s helpful for your child to share your struggles. Prepare them with your examples and tell them the things you need forgiveness for. By showing them in how you deal with the challenges in life, you help them to put their trust in God. Help them to meet His standards.
Children need the love of their parents, and love can be spelled as t…i…m…e! Parents need to spend positive time with their children, this is the only way to get to know them. When you know the character of your child, you can help them in their Faith journey and give them tools to make choices.
May God bless you in your daily testimony!

Tinka Veninga
Coordinator Noah's Ark (Creche & Sunday School)

Freedom in Christ

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Welcome to James Paton, our new Teaching Pastor!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

James comes to us from serving the last 9 years as co-pastor of a large, dynamic, missionally oriented congregation in Calgary (Canada), after growing up in Scotland and pastoring in Switzerland.

The Pastor Search Team, made up of Crossroads members, with a vast array of gifts and experience, spent many months searching and praying though 200 applications for the Teaching Pastor position, including reading what applicants had written about themselves and their perspectives, letters of reference from people who have worked with them, listening to sermons, eventually Skyping with 6 pastor couples and inviting 2 couples to visit us here in the Netherlands. We are very grateful to the team for spending the many dedicated hours in this thorough process.

After receiving the insights and recommendations of the team, inviting input from Bill and Miriam and spending additional time in prayer and discernment, the Elders unanimously agreed to call James to this role—which we are please to report he has accepted.

In the first few weeks, James will focus on getting his family settled, finding long-term housing and planning with Crossroads leadership and staff before taking on full responsibility for leading the Teaching Team, developing learning opportunities throughout our community and helping to lead Crossroads toward more fully carrying out our mission. We hope you will give this family a warm welcome to our community and pray for them, giving them grace as they adjust. Will you thank God together with us for answering our prayers?

Christmas Lunch

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The Christmas Lunch was about being a family to one another and celebrating Christmas together instead of by yourself.

We all wish you a Blesses Christmas whether your alone or with a group of people to celebrate Christmas. May Jesus who came into this world to take up our sins and die for us, be the light to guide you true this season.

New Children's Group Started!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

We started this group in Faith, because we did not and still do not have a full team of
volunteers together. We believe that Jesus wants to welcome the little children, like in
Matthew 19:14, where Jesus said: “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them,
for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” That is why we trust that God will provide to
welcome these children in His body, the church!

The Vogels is a small group with 13 children on the list and around 5 attending each Sunday.
There are many more in the pipeline though, we expect to have 32 at the end of the season.
Together the Vogels will form a small community within the Crossroads community. Each
year they will move up to the next group together.

Do you want to welcome them and invest in this little emerging community? Let us know at
children@xrds.nl

Christmas@thefarm 2011

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

We were pleased to note that about 20 groups of 10 kids and their parents were taken on the tour around the farm. (see pictures)

The kids learned important truth from the Bible using games and activities.

We want to thank all the volunteers who made this event possible!

Parents-to-Be!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

17 December: Serve the City

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

On the 7th of January we will have our next Serve the City event and we want to show Amsterdam that we not only care about them in the Christmas season. We especially need many people for the beauty day at the rehabilitation centre. If you want to help out go to the website www.stcamsterdam.nl/en/projecten and sign up for a service project to show your love and Gods love for the people in Amsterdam.

Becoming a Love and Logic Parent – (For parents of children 7-11 years)

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The term Love and Logic comes from effective parenting centred in love. Love that is not permissive, love that doesn’t tolerate disrespect, but it is powerful enough to allow children make mistakes and permit them to live with the consequences of those mistakes. Most mistakes do have logical consequences. Those consequences, when accompanied by empathy, our compassionate understanding of the child’s disappointment and frustration are more likely to hit home with mind changing power.

Parenting with Love and Logic is not a foolproof system that works every time. No system can promise that. But it is a system that has a strong chance of working in most situations. Parents will find success using the love and logic attitude. Once the attitude is mastered, handling most problems becomes second nature, even when a particular problem has not been explored. The approach is more of an attitude that will allow our children to grow into maturity as they grow in years. It will teach them to think, to decide, and to live with their decisions. In short, it will teach them responsibility. If we can teach our children responsibility, we’ve accomplished a great portion of our parental task.

The Bible provides insight on many parental issues. Much of what it teaches is summarized beautifully in a familiar Old Testament proverb:

‘Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.’ (Proverbs 22:6)

What greater gift can parents give their children, other than the opportunity for a joyful, productive and responsible adult life? We believe the principles of Parenting with love and logic will help achieve that result.

Info/Register: loveandlogic@xrds.nl

Registration deadline: January 3rd, 2012

When: Tuesday the January 17th to February 21st 2012 (except February 14th).

Where: Ministry Center

Parenting with Love & Logic 0 to 6 years

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Where does the term love and logic come from?

Effective parenting centers around love: love that is not permissive, love that doesn’t tolerate disrespect, but also love that is powerful enough to allow children to make mistakes and permit them to live with the consequences of those mistakes. Most mistakes do have logical consequences. And those consequences, when accompanied by empathy – our compassionate understanding of the child’s disappointment, frustration and pain – hit home with mind-changing power.

Parenting with Love and Logic is not a fool proof system that works every time. No system can promise that. But it is a system that has a strong chance of working in most situations. Parents will find success using the Love and Logic attitude. Once the attitude is mastered, handling most problems becomes second nature, even when a particular problem has not been explored. The approach is more of an attitude that will allow our children to grow in maturity as they grow in years. It will teach them to think, to decide, and to live with their decisions. In short, it will teach them responsibility.

If you’re interested in learning more, we strongly recommend you join a 6-week class. You will learn the basics of Love and Logic, get a whole basketful of techniques you can use immediately and you’ll have fun in the process!

If we can teach our children responsibility, we’ve accomplished a great portion of our parental task.

The Bible provides insight on many parenting issues. Much of what it teaches is summarized beautifully in a familiar Old Testament proverb:

‘Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.’ (Proverbs 22:6)

What greater gift can parents give their children than the opportunity for a joyful, productive, and responsible adult life? We believe the principles of Parenting with love and logic will help achieve that result.

For more information on Love and Logic please see www.loveandlogic.com.

This class is for parents with children in the ages 0-6 years.

When: 11/01, 18/01, 25/01, 01/02, 08/02 and 15/02 from 20:00 to 22:00

Where: Vinkeveen (address given upon registration)

Cost: €30 per person or €50 per couple

Registration deadline: December 28th, 2011

More info or register?: lovelogic@xrds.nl

Serve the City Amsterdam & Utrecht

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

So enough opportunities to serve! See www.stcamsterdam.nl or www.stcutrecht.nl for sign ups or after the service in the lobby where you can sign up for the projects. You can do this together with your small group or friends or just sign up yourself for your favorite project. Who will you bless this winter season with your hands and serve a smile?

A chair... is so much more than just a chair. Have you ever adopted one?

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Our church has gone through a lot of change. The most noticeable development, in the last 8 years, is of course, our growth. Crossroads has outgrown its structures. We need to put new structures in place to be able to do all that we want to do: organizing services, supporting LIFEgroups, developing activities that fit the styles and interests of our children and youth, offering equipping courses for different groups within our community, etc.

If we add up all the costs for all our activities ( over € 800.000,-- for 2011) and divide them by the 52 Sunday services and divide this amount by the average amount of adults that attend the 3 services, we come to a cost of € 19,23 per filled chair per Sunday for 2011.

However, as the first steps for our plans for 2012 are being taken, we have already made financial commitments, to continue with the structure upgrade (for example, a salary for the new teaching pastor) and investments in parts of our vision that have had less emphasis (outreach, care ministry, etc.). This has caused the cost per chair to increase to € 23,53.

By the end of next year ,when the structure upgrade has been fully completed and we have hired a healthy amount of staff, as proposed in the new structure, our cost will have increased to € 27,28 per chair for each Sunday. This is € 118 per month for each adult that participates on Sundays.

To give you an idea how the costs are divided over the 6 different ministries, a short overview:
• 27 percent of all our costs are service related (that is, without the cost for the children services);
• 16 percent of all our income is invested in our children;
• 13 percent goes to faith formation;
• 21 percent to outreach & missions;
• 13 percent goes to connections;
• 10 percent goes to deaconate/care.
Because of this new season we are entering, we want to ask you to reconsider your giving to Crossroads for 2012. Please take some time to think it over, to pray about adopting a chair, or the leg of a chair, or maybe, beside your own chair, a chair for someone else.
It would help greatly if you could make a decision about this topic before the 15th of December, so that we know where we stand financially at the beginning of next year.
But if you are ready to take action now, you can click here.

Connection points

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Christmas Lunch @ Xrds

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Women Event: Finding JOY through the Holidays!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Though born in the USA, Linda has been living in Amsterdam on a great adventure! Since 2003 she is assisting Great Commission Ministries with the church, Amsterdam 50.

Using her degrees in physical education, athletic training, and coaching, Linda has worked with young people for 25 years. She is enthusiastic about sharing God’s love and encouraging biblical values in her work in education, athletics, community service and church. You can more about from her web page: http://www.lindakitchen.org/

A chair… is so much more than a chair

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

You could say that it costs € 19,23 every Sunday for you and I to sit on our chair in Crossroads. To make possible the upgrades we have planned for the coming months, the cost for your and my chair goes up to € 23,53 per Sunday, an increase of 20%. And if we want to carry out the plans we have for 2012, the cost of the chair goes up to € 27,28 each week.

During the meeting we were all asked to consider our giving to the Crossroads. We are all in different situations:

Maybe you are in a situation where you can consider raising your giving to Crossroads;
Maybe your situation is changed and you feel financial strain;
Maybe you have never considered giving structurally to Crossroads and could this be the time to start doing it;
Maybe you can adopt a chair and pay for one of the chairs that are filled with people who are early in their faith journey or for people whose funds are limited.
Maybe you can adopt five chairs and make room for more.

Whatever the situation you are in, the request at the moment is to consider, think and pray about your giving to Crossroads. During the next weeks you will be reminded of this topic and the request is to make a decision before the 15th of December.

If you are ready to take action now, you can click here.

Christmas at the Farm

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Connections

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Or even when you have been coming for a long time, and you have ideas on how to improve things or to start something up, where do you go? How do you keep connected when things change in your life? First you were hanging out with the singles, now you are married and thinking about kids. How do you meet with people in a similar life stage? Or perhaps something more dramatic happened in your life, is there a way to connect to other Christians that have the same challenge?

I think we can all identify with these types of situations, can't we?

As Christians we are all on a journey it is not meant to be traveled alone. It is good to team up with others who are traveling in the same direction and who are in the same stage of the journey as you are.
The connections ministry is all about that, connecting people, to help each to take a next step--whether to find them opportunities to connect to God, to others, to the church or to serving possibilities.

We were brainstorming about this connections theme and I shared with Miriam and Bill my passion for this. As we were looking at how these ideas would fit in the new structure, we soon realized that it actually covered a lot of the Life ministry that was provided for in the new structure.

So that is what I will be focusing on: all of the ingredients it takes to create opportunities for connection in our church. It is a big task and a lot has to be done. But I am excited about it. We still need to find a new Facilities Team Leader, but in the meantime we would like to take some small steps, beginning already in the coming weeks. We would like to set up some opportunities for people to get to know each other. We call these opportunities Connection Points, there are several possibilities we are thinking about but we are still looking for people who like to host them. Nothing complicated, just a one-time opportunity initially to get to know each other and exchange contact information over a cup of coffee.
Let me give some examples of what is possible.

Single mothers
Young internationals
Freelancers
Parents with special need children
Perhaps we can set up some regional ones, to meet people in your neighborhood.

We also would like to start something we call “Meet the Pastors”. It would be great to offer newcomers a cup of coffee and to hear more about Crossroads, meet the pastor, other staff, but also other people. Yet another way to get connected.

If you have ideas about this or would like to get involved do not hesitate to contact me at Johan@xrds.nl. Thanks!

Lining Up

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

1.About a year ago, we worked on sharpening our various mission and vision statements.

Our Mission:

To build a dynamic Christian community that attracts people to Christ, helps them take their next steps in faith and equips them to serve God in the world.

Our Vision:

To be a church for believers and seekers: sharing the gospel in worship, word and deed in an approachable manner.
To be a healthy community of disciples, from infants to adults: following Jesus Christ and growing in faith through prayer, learning and serving
To renew our culture: changing minds and hearts, blessing others, serving the troubled and the poor.
To multiply our community: starting new communities and planting churches in the Netherlands and beyond.

We are looking for a Facilities Team Leader

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The Facilities Team Leader is also to provide a well coordinated security & safety plan and a Risk Assessment plan for all of Crossroads, by setting up and maintaining the RI & E (Risico Inventarisatie & Evaluatie or Risk Assessment) for Crossroads, as well as a BHV (Bedrijfshulpverlening or Emergency Response) and a training plan for it. More info

Becoming a Love and Logic Parent – (For parents with children 7-11 years)

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Teaching Pastor Search Update

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We have worked hard as we’ve poured over cover letters and CVs, and reviewed sermons and questionnaires. We’ve shared many long evenings of prayer, discussion and discernment to get to where we are now. In the process, we’ve gelled as a team as we’ve learned to utilise each other’s gifts, strengths and perspectives.

In August and September we screened all the applicants and gradually narrowed them down to a short list of 10. In October we sent these 10 candidates a questionnaire which enabled us to discern the 6 candidates with whom we will do Skype interviews. These interviews will provide an essential piece to our discernment process as we meet and talk with the candidates for the first time. Following the interviews and reference checks, we’ll decide which candidates we will bring to Amsterdam to complete the discernment process.

We would have loved to be further along in the process by now, but we are proceeding as quickly as we are able, intent upon not rushing a process which needs to be done well. We are grateful for our teaching team who is able and willing to go the extra mile during this transition time.

Please continue to pray for us! Pray for wisdom and discernment, for perseverance and health, for our team dynamics and unity and, most of all, that we will have eyes to see and ears to hear what the Lord desires to reveal to us.

Healing Hearts Bible Study for Women Who Have Had an Abortion

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0200

What?

A 10-week Bible study called “Binding up the Brokenhearted”, specifically written for women who suffer from the after-effects of abortion. The study is designed by Healing Hearts, a Christian organization devoted to helping women who need hope and healing in their lives (see www.healinghearts.org).

The group setting will be small (maximum 4-5 particpants) and confindential, offering you a safe place to share your story with other women without fear of judgement or condemnation. The group is lead by someone who has personally experienced abortion and has walked through the healing process.

There are weekly homework assignments to help you work through your past hurts and the feelings that accompany them. Chapters and assignments are discussed in the group, with room to share anything that has come up or comes up during the sittings. Your group leaders will walk with you during this process and will help you find the healing that there is to be found in God’s Word.

We are aware of the sensitivity of the subject of abortion and therefore groups are strictly confidential.

When?

Starting December 13th, Tuesday evenings from 19.00 to 21.30 h. (Another day & time may be set after mutual agreement with leaders and participants)

For whom?

All post-abortive women. Even if it has been a long time since you had your abortion(s) and/or you are not sure what there is to deal with, we encourage you to sign up.

Costs?

A €20 contribution to cover material costs. (Only for those who can afford it.)

Sign up

Healinghearts@xrds.nl

Serve the City

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We are also looking companies that want to make their contribution to our city for a day. Wanna know more? www.stcamsterdam.nl or mail at info@stcamsterdam.nl

Stop the Traffik Benefit Concert

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200

In the meanwhile we got to know each other better and have grown into a nicely melted group. We really enjoy playing together and are preparing for the next concert on the 12th of November with a completely new range of musical pieces. All the proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Dutch branch of Stop the Traffik, an organisation fighting human trafficking worldwide. For more information: www.stopthetraffik.org

In response to asking the musicians why they offer up so much time to prepare for the concerts, Rio offers a quote from Tomas Segovia, a poet: "Playing music must be like life itself, an explosion of liberty".
And Hsiang Ling adds: "The heavens declare the glory of God, the skies proclaim his handiwork!" (Psalm 19:1).
Just as nature proclaims God's glory, the fact that we are able to create and produce beautiful sounds that blend in harmonious melody point to the beauty of a creator God. May the music we play lead people on to search for a reason behind the music and find Him, the one for whom, by whom and in whom all things were created.

We are looking forward to be playing for you again:
Stop the Traffik benefit concert
12 November 2011, 19.30
Noorderkerk, Noordermarkt, Amsterdam
Tickets € 15 euros, however you are free to give more (or less) towards this good cause.

Ticket sale starts October 23 in Crossroads, for information: crossnotes@xrds.nl

Afternoon Tea for Women

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200

When: September 17, 2011, from 2:00 to 4:30 pm
Cost: €7,50
More information: Women@xrds.nl

Join the LIFEgroup Leadership Course in September!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200

During 5 Monday nights (starting 19 September) we will look at topics like “How to Deal with Group Dynamics”, “How to Prepare and Lead a Bible Study”, "How to Facilitate Worship and Prayer" or "How to be a missional LIFEgroup". To sign up or to ask for more information, please email: martijn@xrds.nl.

Thank you, Fiona!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Exciting Times Ahead

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We are also well underway to implementing parts of the new structure plan for Crossroads that was discussed in the Membership Meeting in April this year. Job descriptions for all positions in the new structure are being written, and some of them have already been advertised as vacancies. Of course, we are also looking for the right roles for each one already on staff. We are confident that God has a perfect plan to put each person in the place most suited to their gifting.

We are also working on a plan for the extension of the Elder Board, for identifying Deacon candidates, and a plan for an Advisory Board. We will update you on further developments. In addition to this, a team of specialists in this area will meet in September to review our statutes.

Finally, in all of these tasks before us, we realize that it is God who is in control. In this process, we are dedicated to do our utmost for His highest. We look to Him for wisdom, encouragement and peace of mind. Thank you so much for the trust that you are giving us in carrying out this task and for your ongoing prayer to support us in this process.

The Elders

Update on youth department

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Tory is a student student at Tyndale Theological Seminary. He is allowed to work 10 hours per week next to his studies. We are very excited to have him on board.

We are currently also advertising a 20-hour/week youth ministry position. The position is for the Team leader 12+.

Final update collection Noah's Ark

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

To refresh your minds again. It is a project supported by Stichting Antwoord (www.antwoord.org). For every donation of € 12 , one child can go to pre-school for one month.

Noah's Ark already made it possible for 7 children to go to pre-school for one year. Our goal was to raise 1.296 euro so 9 children could go to pre-school. Did we reach it? Almost! Just 33 euro's short. The missions team was so impressed however by the efforts of the Noah's ark children that they decided to help them reach their goal. 9 Children will be able to go to pre-school next season!!

A big thank you to all Noah's Ark kids in the age 3-7 (and their parents) for making this possible for those children in Mozambique!

Tinka Veninga
Coordinator Noah's Ark (0-7 year olds)

Children's End-of-the-Season Celebration

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

I'm happy to be back (after my maternaty leave) as Children's Church Coordinator and I'm looking forward to invest in the lives of the children of Crossroads. Hope to see you all, in the summerprogram or next season!

Hanneke

Children’s Church Summer program!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Normally Noah's Ark has 13 (!) different groups. In the Summer there will be 8 groups, bringing and picking up will stay the same.

As of this Sunday you can sign up your children in one of the following groups:

0-2 year olds
One Bears creche during the first service.

2 year olds
Elephants for the English speaking children
Tijgers for the Dutch speaking children

3-7 year olds
- Cats 3-7 year old English speaking children (former Squirrels, Giraffes and 3-year-old’s from Elephants)
- Leeuwen 3 year-old Dutch speaking children (the 3 year old’s from the Tijgers)
- Panda’s 4 and 5 year-old Dutch speaking children (former Pinguins, Dolfijnen)
- Apen Dutch speaking children from group 2&3 in Dutch school system (former Paarden)

There are still serving opportunities for the Dutch speaking 3-7 year old groups on the 14th, 21st and 28th of August.

If you would like to sign up, you are more then welcome! Sign up at children@xrds.nl

The new season will start at the 5th of September.

Marriage Relationship Seminar

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200

When: September 24, 2011; from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (with lunch provided)
Where: Crossroads’ Ministry Center
Cost: €7.50 per person
Register at: info@xrds.nl

Staff Update

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Daniel and Elmien, with their children, will be moving back to a place in South Africa called Knysna. We will let you know very soon when an opportunity for us to say good-bye has been planned.

Jurjen van Houwelingen will be taking on the graphic design responsibilities of Rebecca Langeveld while she is on maternity leave. Also, Hanneke Kuiper will return from maternity leave in the next month. We will miss Hilde van der Draai, who has done a great job in filling in for her.

Victoria Sarasola, our office assistant, will be moving into the production position. Victoria has experience as a stage manager and will be in charge of the organization of our Sunday gatherings.

Kairos Course

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

What participants are saying …

“Kairos is a great opportunity to be in the presence of God, listening to His heartbeat.”
“Kairos has been one of the most profound and challenging courses I have attended in 25 years of my Christian walk.”

This inspiring course will be offered at Crossroads for only €50, including materials!
Fridays, 30 Sep. & 7 Oct., 19:30 – 21:45
Saturdays, 1 & 8 Oct., 9:00 – 17:00
Sundays, 2 & 9 Oct., 14:00 – 17:00
Wednesday, 5 Oct., 19:30 – 21:45

For more information or to register, contact Rhonda Ashworth: ashworth@compuserve.com, or visit the Missions display table the third Sunday of each month.

www.kairoscourse.org

Alpha Course is Back!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Do you ever wonder who Jesus really is? Maybe you feel like Jesus could have something to do with the meaning of your life. Or you consider yourself a Christian, but you still feel like you could use a fresh take on the basics of your faith. The Alpha Course may be just the thing for you! This course is open to everyone interested in exploring what being a Jesus-follower is about. Come, relax, eat, share your thoughts and explore the meaning of life in ten thought-provoking sessions.

The Alpha Course will start at the end of September, and this year the course will consist of two groups. One large group who will meet every Thursday in Amstelveen, the other one will be a small Living Room Alpha on Tuesday in Badhoevedorp. Each night we start with a delicious meal which gives people a chance to get to know each other, followed by talks about topics covering the basics of the Christian faith. After each talk we divide into small groups to discuss the topic of the evening, to listen, learn and discover.

If you want additional information about the course or if you are interested in signing up, please contact us at alpha@xrds.nl or visit our information stand at the Xrds Sunday service.

Interested in getting involved in making it all happen? The Alpha Course cannot be held without the help of dedicated volunteers. If you feel that you would like to help, please contact us at alpha@xrds.nl. We are always in need of people who can pitch in to host, to cook and to pray.

Have you ever wanted to share your faith, but didn't know where to start? This year we need extra hands for the small Living Room Alpha. So if you want to learn more about your sharing faith and conducting Alpha, this will be a great opportunity for you! By the end of the course, you will have received the discussion materials and enough training to start your own Living Room Alpha!

Will you help teenagers to discover God?

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

On the basis of Bible passages, the teenagers will be challenged to reflect on the connection of the stories to their daily lives. So what?? We are looking for volunteers who are willing to launch this experience with this new group! Are you active and creative? Do you have a passion for Jesus and a heart for teens? Maybe God is calling you to help out. If so, we would like to invite you to sign up to work with two other volunteers in preparing to teach from the Rock Steady curriculum once or twice a month on Sunday mornings. Training opportunities available. Interested??
Send an email before 19th of July 2011 to hilde@xrds.nl

Children's Choir from Uganda!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

UP4S provides (Christian) education, medical care, and food, providing children with a strong foundation for the future. The children come from the village of Bukomansimbi. In Bukomansimbi there is a primary school that accommodates 300 children. Half of them already have sponsors, while the other half is still looking for caring people to contribute to their needs. Through the help of Dutch volunteers, the quality of this school’s education has improved, and they have become an example for the community. To help the other schools in that region as well, Hilde van der Draai has started an outreach program with the help of Ugandan professionals. Teachers of four schools in the area of Bukomansimbi are being trained to implement ideas for improvement for their education. Furthermore, UP4S opened a secondary school to provide vocational education. Although at this time, there are only two classes, they are looking for financial support to add two more classes in 2012. Hopefully you will enjoy the choir this Sunday!

Noah's Ark collection update

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

It is a project supported by Stichting Antwoord (www.antwoord.org). For every donation of € 12 , one child can go to pre-school for one month. By the end of May, the total had reached € 1.083,92!!

This means that Noah’s Ark has already made it possible for 7 children to pre-school for one year. Those 7 children don’t have to wander around on the streets alone anymore. The 3-7 year-old children from the Pinguins, Dolfijnen, Squirrels, Giraffes and Paarden groups made this possible. We hope to teach them, by giving them a chance to give to other children, that you can bless others by sharing what you have received from God.

We will be collecting money until the 17th of July! What if we collected € 1.296 to send two more children to school? In the Newsletter of July we will let you know if we made it to our goal.

Tinka Veninga
Coordinator Noah's Ark (0-7 year olds)

yearly members meeting

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Click here to read a summary of the financial report. If you have any questions regarding the report then please email them to us at fs2010@xrds.nl before noon on Saturday 4 June. We will make every attempt to answer them on the Monday evening.

Looking forward to seeing you all on June 6.

Together in our Lord Jesus Christ,
Crossroads elders

19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. -- Ephesians 2:19-22 (New International Version)

Fresh... and the promises of God

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

This is just one of many promises found in the Bible. The list is enormous! With the help of some study material we have found over 1000 promises in the Bible!!

God is good, and so are His promises! And they are true! No matter what your circumstances are. Even if your heart condemns you, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. (That is another great promise found in John 3:20). We want to seek and find out how God promises can shine on our problems. How the very word of God holds a truth, that can set us free. Free from fear and anxiety, free from sinful behaviour and free from hurts of our past.

Does the Bible really holds that claim? Is that real? Jesus says in Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Come and join us while we seek the presence of God to make His truth ours!

Saturday, Amstelveen college, 7.30 PM *FRESH*

A prayer request

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Many of you will also be aware that the change team, a specially commissioned team of hard-working volunteers, are currently busy working on the new structure for Crossroads as we move forward into an exciting new future for our church. In addition, this week the pastor search team has also started its work. Again, please join us in praying, which will be the foundation upon which Crossroads is built over the coming months.

Most of the volunteers on these teams have full-time jobs and many have children. Combining the hectic everyday activities with the quite extensive work involved in the ‘change’ process can be tiring, and we are so very aware that we need to constantly seek God’s will. However well thought through a leadership structure may be (and we’re trying our best to get it right!), it will always be the people that make the difference. We also think of the elders, so please pray that the decisions taken will be discerning ones based on God’s heart for Crossroads and the gifts of those who we meet.

Every Monday evening there is a Prayer Meeting at the Ministry centre, and we will endeavour to ensure that an update is available to guide the prayers of those able to attend these evenings. Please consider whether you are able to uphold Crossroads and its members in prayer on these evenings.

Good Friday Children's Program

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We have tried to teach the children that they can have a relationship with God, because Jesus freed us from our sins.

Children started in small groups to make x crosses. The older children did this with nails, hammers and wood. For the younger ones (3-6 year olds) we thought it would be safer to do this with paper ;-).
Those crosses where a symbol of their sins. In the meanwhile the small group leader talked with them about sin. Do they know what it means and do they have examples?

All the small groups joined for prayer, worship and the teaching. Even Herodes came by as you can see on the picture.

When they returned in the small groups the x crosses where decorated. The older ones wrote their sins on the cross.
In their small groups they brought their symbol for the sin to the cross standing in the gym. Some children kneeled by the cross, prayed and thanked Jesus for what He did for them.

We ended the evening together in prayer and with singing a song.
What a special evening to experience this with those children! They can really be an inspiration to us adults and our Faith journey.
If you want to be inspired by the children as well, let us know at children@xrds.nl

For more pictures click here

Trusting God through Life's adventures

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Pam is a noted author of 5 books including “Safer Than a Known Way”, “The Five Silent Years of Corrie ten Boom” and “Finding your Way through Depression” and speaks at Women’s Conferences and Retreats as well as to Students of all ages, Senior Adults and Prison Audiences.

Pam is a narrative speaker and with her stories she will help us to discover how to trust God through life’s adventures and walk a road of surrender that leads to liberty in Christ and discovering who we really are in Him.
We look forward to a great evening of wonderful stories about Pam’s journey of faith and adventure.

For more information visit her website at www.pamrosewellmoore.org

Date: Saturday, May 21st
Time: Arrive from 19:00, program from 19:30
Location: Amstelveen College
Cost: Donation
Sign-up: women@xrds.nl

Feel free to invite your friends, but please do register through women@xrds.nl for preparation purposes.

Janike van Dijk Update

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Dear Crossroads community,

God has done a great miracle in my life and in the midst of our community. I've survived this cardiac arrest and-- even more amazingly--I have come through this almost free from damage. I feel God has given me a second chance.

Last week, after 24 days in two different hospitals, I was released. It's great to be home again. I'm still very tired and weak. It's going better every day, but very slowly. I've already come an incredibly long way, but there is still a long journey ahead. I need to recover, and I need time to process everything.

I want to thank all of you who have been sending cards, bringing flowers, writing messages online, cooking meals, and--last but not least--all who have been praying. We as a family have felt that we were carried in prayer and that we were surrounded by a loving, caring community. Thank you!

"But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation."
Psalm 13:5

Much love,
Janike--also on behalf of Erik, Hanna and Lydia,

Night of Prayer 2011 June 10th

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 +0200

The Night of Prayer is initiated by Open Doors in The Netherlands, an organisation globally
dedicated to support Christians in countries where oppression and persecution are taking
place. The purpose of this Night of Prayer is that Christians dedicate themselves, by means
of prayer, to their fellow believers who regularly have to spent many nights in prisons and/or
police cells.

Why pray at night? “Especially at night, many persecuted Christians are experiencing a hard
time. This is the moment doubt strikes.”, says Open Doors spokesman Klaas Muurling. Also in
Scripture we see that many Christians pray during the night. When Peter was imprisoned, the
church prayed at night and he was released.”

Already in Jonah’s time the city of Nineveh - current Mosul in Iraq - was a stronghold of evil.
This is exactly why the LORD sent Jonah to this city to share His message. Even now Iraqi
believers in Bagdad and Mosul are encountering violence. Many are fleeing the country, while
others doubt: will the also flee their country to a safer place? Next to this, Nineveh is a symbol
of all those other places where Christians are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus.

During this Night of Prayer we will pray for Iraq and many other countries where Christians
are being persecuted.

We would like to invite you to join us for this Night of Prayer. Coffee, tea and some snacks
will be provided. If you would like to take a break during the night you can bring your sleeping
bag as well. Doors open at 21:00pm; exact starting time will be 22:00pm.
More information will follow, via email, after sign up.

After a general introduction we will show clips with information about Christians in Iraq and
many other countries. After each clip we will take time to pray.

You can sign-up on Sunday May 15 and 22 and June 5 after the 1st and 2nd service. For questions or immediate sign-up, please contact Joke Leijen at: jokeleijen@gmail.com.

Join Serve The City!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Think about fixing someones house, or going out a day with people who really need that. Some people are really lonely, have nobody to help them out or to love them. You can love your neighbour in Amsterdam from the 2nd till the 5th of June and serve smiles. Go to www.stcamsterdam.nl where you can sign up for the projects. You can do this together with your life group or friends or just sign up yourself for your favorite project.

Changes in Pastoral Care

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Introducing Pastoral Care

To help you find the way more easily when you are seeking help, the counseling, restorative prayer and 7 steps ministries have joined to form the Pastoral Care ministry.The monthly ‘restorative prayer and counseling’ sessions on the first Sunday of the month will cease to exist, and instead we will offer pastoral care by appointment. The Pastoral Care team consists of different volunteers, who have a passion for God and people and have experience in different areas of pastoral care and prayer.

What can Crossroads Pastoral Care offer you?

There are several ways we can serve you, depending on your needs and situation:

There are people trained in pastoral care who would love to talk with you one on one about the problems you face.
There are people who would like to take time to pray with you and seek the Lord together with you.
There are people who would love to guide you through steps to freedom in Christ.
Crossroads offers several different courses which address different life challenges. We can help find the right course for you.
Finally, we can assist you in finding professional help if that is necessary. We have a referral list of Christian mental health and life skill professionals in the greater Amsterdam area.

How can you contact us?

You can contact us via the Crossroads website, via pastoralcare@xrds.nl or via our telephone number: 06-13628857

new leadership structure

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We have created a summary of the meeting on Monday that also includes an overview of the structure for those of you who could not attend. The document also has a comprehensive FAQ section in which we have attempted to answer all the questions that people submitted on Monday and since.

You can access the document via this link. There will also be hard copies available at the info table this coming Sunday.

May we conclude with three points:

1) As we move to the next level at Crossroads, we extend our enormous gratitude to the incredible team of staff members who have run our church over the past months with complete dedication. A big thank you to you all.

2) The new structure will only work if people like you get involved! Crossroads needs all members of the ‘body’ to join us on this adventure of faith.

3) Last – but definitely not least – please join us in praying. There will be an announcement on Sunday about a week of prayer and we would also encourage you to include the church in general and our staff and leaders in particular in your daily prayers.

Love and blessings

The Elders

Meet the neighbors

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

CURRY NIGHT at Meet and Eat@Crossroads

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Membership Seminar

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Good Friday service

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Prayer-for-Crossroads Initiative

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Those who have gathered agree that we don’t want to lose this prayer momentum for our church community, so we’ve scheduled these prayer times on the following dates:

Every Monday evening, from 19.45 – 21.30 at the Ministry Center

Various prayer-minded people in our community will facilitate the evening, using their own resources as well as current prayer points for the church.

CROSSROADS EMAIL PRAYER UPDATE

If you would like to receive extra prayer requests, then you can click here to go to the sign-up page. This will be a trial to see if our existing online resources may be able to help us increase the level of intercession in our community. A number of you have been asking for this, so we are taking steps to see what is possible.

Staff Updates

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

She is miraculously out of intensive care, breathing on her own, and slowly beginning to engage with those around her. This will be a journey of many steps, but we are blessed to see God’s healing already taking place in response in many, many prayers this week.

Erik, Hanna and Lydia have staying at the ‘family house’ connected to the hospital in Alkmaar (the nearest place where they had available intensive care beds on Monday) to be near Janike. Various family members and people from the Crossroads leadership have been with them at least a part of every day. In the past fews days various friends of the girls were able to visit Hanna and Lydia as well.

Updates in Dutch are available on this blog site that Erik has been updating regularly:

Sherry Ramzy has left her staff role at Crossroads where she has served our community in coordinating the Welcome Ministry, coordinating membership requests and especially offering the Unique Design course, intended to help people discover their special contribution to God’s purposes, both inside the church community and beyond. We appreciate her various contributions through the years and pray God’s rich blessing on her next steps. We trust God’s guiding hand, and we pray that she will discover surprising new avenues to make her next unique contribution to the work of Jesus on earth.

Victoria Sarasola joined our staff to strengthen our office department. She will be the friendly voice you hear when you call the office.

Hanneke Kuiper has given birth to her son Jonathan. Needless to say she is on maternity leave. Hilde van der Draai is filling in for her untill she is back again.

Pray For Japan

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

For God's intervention in the crisis.
For peace and comfort to those who have lost family, friends or co-workers to the disaster so far.
For creativity and wisdom for the scientists and engineers who are working on cooling the nuclear reactors.
For the strength and health of the aid workers and volunteers who are assisting with relief efforts in communities hit by quakes and tsunamis and loss of power in cold weather.
For the skill and effectiveness of doctors, nurses and health care workers who are trying to treat and restore injured people.
For the spirit of Japan to endure during this time of trial and emerge from it with a sense of purpose and compassion and appreciation of the eternal and
That the Japanese people can see Christian love in action through acts of compassion and the power of prayer.

We will be initiating some times of prayer for Japan and in addition will make the community aware of opportunities to give towards the relief effort. We will give you more information as soon as it becomes available.

Personal prayer training

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The training will be held on 20 March from 11:00 until 12:15 in the School Lounge. If you’d like to register or more information, please email Edward: eheijden@hotmail.com or call 06-50213969.

Serve the City Spring edition

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

So we want to give you the opportunity to sign up fo a project on the 12th of March. So if you want to make some people smile: please read more about the projects on www.servethecity.nl and sign-up
"

Marriage Preparation Course

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The dates are: March 31, April: 7 & 14, May: 12 & 26, June 9 .Next to these teachings each couple will be personally guided by a mentoring couple. Questions or sign up: Peter and Trea Zevenhuizen at: premarriage@xrds.nl. Please sign up before 12 March so we have time to arrange enough mentors. Where: Ministry Center, Amstelveen. Time :19:30. First session starts at 19:00 with a meal. & the following sessions at 19:30 without a meal.

Curry night Meet and Eat @ Crossroads.

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

When: Saturday 16 April 2011, 19:00 hours.
Where: At the Ministry Center Theme: Curry night (a choice of Indian curries)
Cost: 15 Euro per person, including drinks.
Tickets: available at the sign up table on 27 March and 3 & 10 April.
For info: meetandeat@xrds.nl.

Fearless and Free

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Plan now to attend Fearless & Free: Becoming a Woman of Strength and Dignity. You’ll discover the keys to facing every day with confidence and courage.

Our speaker is Grace Fox, author of Moving from Fear to Freedom: A Woman’s Guide to Peace in Every Situation and the popular 10-Minute Time Outs devotional series. She has written hundreds of articles for magazines including Focus on the Family, Power for Living, and Today’s Christian Woman. She’s a trusted media guest for programs including “It’s a New Day,” “100 Huntley Street,” and “FamilyLife Today.”
Grace lives in British Columbia, Canada. She and her husband direct International Messengers Inc., ministry that specializes in creative short-term and career overseas in Eastern Europe. www.gracefox.com

DATE: April 9, 2011
TIME: Coffee @ 7 pm; Meeting starts @ 7.30 pm
PLACE: Xrds at Amstelveen College
Startbaan 12 1187 XR Amstelveen
COST: Donation is appreciated
For Preparation Purposes Please register Women@xrds.nl

Young International Sunday lunches

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Come join us for lunch after the 2nd service in ‘The Cave’
(12:30 behind the coffee area).
A light lunch and drinks will be served for a small donation of 2 euros.
Meet other internationals and get
connected to socials happening throughout the week.
Contact Amy at internationals@xrds.nl for more info on the
‘Young Internationals’.

Sliedrechts Visit Crossroads

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Tim and Angie will bring a greeting in all three serviceson that Sunday. In addition they will give a short presentation about their ministry in Uganda during the 2nd and 3d service in the lounge. Take time to meet Tim and Angie, hear of the wonderful work they are involved in and encourage them with your prayers.

Crossroads goes hiking

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Christmas at the farm 2010

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

IIt was a day full of beautiful snow where the kids went for a treasure hunt for true happiness. On their journey they scrawled through the hay and they met the shepherds, where the kids learned that true happiness isn't found in popularity. The kids met the wiseman, where they were taught that true happiness isn't found in being rich either. The scribe thought that if your performance is great you find true happiness, but this wasn't the case either. In the end the children met Joseph and Mary and baby Jesus. There it was said that true happiness is only found when you've a close relationship with Jesus. During the different stations the kids learned an important truth from the Bible;

'Delight yourself in the Lord and He'll give you the desires of your heart'.
I hope we all took that lesson home!

Hereby I want to thank all the volunteers who made this day happen and went through the snow to help and be there for around 150 kids and parents on Christmas at the farm 2010!

Taking Up an Offense

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Serving in ministry for 50+ years, I've seen this scenario played out time and again, and every time the enemy gets the victory over the believer. Here's the scene; someone in the church, or family, or workplace, or school is offended by the actions or words of another person. A friend, acquaintance or family member hears of or observes the incident and becomes offended on behalf of their friend, etc. Long after the two actual participants in the event have settled things and moved on, those who have taken up the offense are still fuming and stewing every time they are reminded of the event or the people involved. Why? I think I know.

When I'm offended, God immediately gives me grace to forgive and move on. I can deal directly with the offender and our relationship can be restored. However, if I take on an offense on behalf of another, I am not afforded the grace of God needed to forgive. I'm pretty much on my own to do it the hard way; by strength of will. As I begin to take steps of obedience, God does offer grace, and it gets easier as I go along. The scripture that addresses this issue is found in Hebrews 12:14-15 "Strive for peace with everyone and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble and by it many become defiled;"

So, what should I do when someone comes to me and wants to talk about "the incident"? I should offer to pray with and for them, and go with them to the other party and seek resolution (with me only as a spectator) What if the one who comes to me was not a direct participant, but is passing along "hearsay"?
My response should be "I have promised God not to listen to bad reports about people lest I become offended at them and become a part of the problem rather than a part of the solution. I will pray with you for the people involved, but I don't need particulars in order to do that."

God wants unity in His body, the church. In order for there to be corporate unity, there must first be individual unity between persons involved in conflict.

Elder update

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

As communicated in December three of member of the interim team have prayerfully decided not to continue. So we would like to thank Paul Prinsen Geerligs, Sander van Muijen and Martijn Zandvliet for their gift of leadership and service as they not only served our community faithfully and diligently but invigorated our team with a fresh energy. May the Lord richly bless and protect you and your families.

Neil van Der Meer had decided to continue serving and supporting until such time as new elders are added to the elder board. Gerard Stroomberg has felt God’s call to join the elder board for a full 5 year term. Although Gerard has already served as an interim elder for the past 6 months, we still as a matter of formality we need to inform you, our community of his decision should you have any concerns or questions about his appointment please contact myself or one of the other elders.

Metanoia Ministries served our community as consultants until December last year. Jim and Sharon van Yperen's ministry has been a great blessing to our community and to us as leaders. Many of the processes they initiated are spearheading now. Jim and Sharon served us diligently and sometimes beyond our expectations. The biblical truths and principles they shared with us have certainly helped us grow stronger and deeper as a community. Although they are not present with us, we want to take this opportunity to express our thanks to them. And pray God’s rich blessing upon them. In response to this Jim and Sharon send their deepest appreciation and Love to the whole community and considered it an honor to serve us in this way.

Alastair Adkins

Child dedications are changing (part two)

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

A lot of the parents want to dedicate their child in a personal way and celebrate this with their community afterwards. Until now dedications were done three times a month divided over the three services with a maximum of two dedications per service. Parents only had the chance to select one bible verse or poem which could be read in the service. There was no time to explain the choice, pick a song or maybe even sing a song.

What will the dedications look like after the change?
From 11.30 until 11.45 parents, children and guests can enter. At 11.45 the Liturgy starts with a welcome, prayer, song and introduction on child dedication. One by one the parents will be asked to come forward and have a personal time where they introduce themselves, explain and read what they have chosen. In between there will be another song. When all the parents have their personal time, the questions for the parents and the communities present will be asked. Then the prayer of blessing will follow. A song will close the Liturgy. Then everyone can stay for the coffee and tea, which will be available after the service.

You are warmly invited to join the parents during the dedication of their child. It is possible for you to join the first service or a part of the second and then come to the dedication. Or go first to the dedication and then join the third service. The Sunday after dedication you will see the families on the screen. Then you are able to congratulate them when you see them.

The Money Seminar

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

You can take control of your finances! Crossroads is once again offering a seminar that gives you the opportunity to stop and consider how you manage your money. This basic 4- session seminar includes sound financial biblical principles sessions on budgeting, giving, spending/debt, and saving/investing. You will be provided with practical tools and principles to handle your money in a way that leads to the freedom God promises us.
This seminar is for everyone whatever your family status, and financial situation. Find out how God feels about money, spending, debt, investing etc. Come and find out how you can get back in control and stay on top of it. Some work at home will be required as well as attendance to all 4 sessions.

Sounds Fun and exciting? Sign up!
Sounds not fun but painfully necessary? Sign up and laugh (or cry) with the rest of us.

The MONEY seminar:
4 Sundays in a row to get your bucks in a row: Sunday 20, 27 February, 6 and 13 March 2011.
Starting at 9:30 until 11:15 at the church, room still to be announced.

Costs: 7 euros for the whole course, including comfort food, drinks, outline of presentations, and tools to take with you. Seminar facilitator: Thessa van Muijen Max. amount of participants: 25.
Sign up by emailing Thessa at thessavanmuijen@filternet.nl

Money loses all power if you push it in the light – where it belongs!

Food Collection

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

This Sunday we are going deeper in the Lord’s prayer: ‘give us today our daily bread’ as part of our series “PRAYER”. Please join us in being an answer to our brothers and sisters in Amsterdam who do not have enough to eat. Please bring a box to church on the 16th containing:
- Pasta
- Rice
- Canned soup
- Canned vegetables
- Canned fish
- pasta sauce (powder)
- pasteurised milk
- coffee
- tea
- sugar
We will collect the food on a big table at the side stage of the auditorium.

You Are Warmly Invited...

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

dus

Kids collected 450,31 euro voor Mozambique!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Pinguins, Dolfijnen, Squirrels, Giraffes and Paarden groups, which are children aged from 3 until 7 years old, made this possible. We really hope to teach the children through this offering, that you can give away what you are receiving from God. On the 28th of November all the children who helped collect the money received a small thank you gift from Stichting Antwoord. Brigitte Makkinje, from Stichting Antwoord, came to the Paarden group to hand out the gifts herself as you can see on the pictures.
Let's see how much money Noah's Ark has collected for the children in Mozambique at the end of the season! We will keep you posted.

Tinka Veninga
Coordinator Noah's Ark (Creche & Sunday School)

28 - 30 December Mission 2010

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Together with other young Christians we hope to grow in a missionary lifestyle. Are you in the age of 18-30 years? This conference might be really something for you.Inspiring speakers, practical workshops and a time to meet with missionary organizations and an Serve the City outreach on Wednesday afternoon. Are you ready for a challenge to discover together with God what is like to live your mission? Join us from the 28-30 of December in de Noorderkerk in Amsterdam. For more info go to www.mission2010.nl

Serve the City, winter edition

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We need a project leader for evey single project we will do during this year’s Serve the City. As a project leader you will inform your volunteers, keep connected with the organization and make sure everything goes smoothly on the Serve the City day. Please contact merel@stcamsterdam.nl for more information or if you are interested in being a project coordinator. Do you know a service project that we can support? Every year we are looking for new projects to help people. Do you know somebody or a project that needs a hand because he or she is not able to do it themselves? Please let us know at info@stcamsterdam.nl. For more info please visit www.stcamsterdam.nl or call Brigitte.

Child Dedications are changing....

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

After the dedications there is also the possibility to congratulate the parents. Tea and coffee will be provided. Child Dedications will now be held every third Sunday of the month. The first one will be on the 9th of January. Just for this month in the second Sunday of the month.

The community will be informed about the children who are being dedicated before and after the Child Dedication service via e-letter and bulletin.

Requests for Child Dedications can be made to Tinka Veninga (coordinator Noah's Ark (0-7 year olds) at tinka@xrds.nl.

Vacancy

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The mission of Crossroads International Church Amsterdam is to build a dynamic Christian community that attracts people to Christ, helps them take their next step in faith and equips them to serve God in the world.

Operations

The Operations department focuses on supporting the various ministries in the field of Operations, Administration, Finance, Facility Management and HR. The department coordinates, builds and implements policies in these fields. In addition, tasks and support activities are carried out for the various Ministries within Crossroads.

The Operation Department of Crossroads is currently recruiting a:

Office Assistant
32 hrs

Function

As Office Assistant you play a central role in providing office, secretarial and administrative support in order to ensure that organisational services within Crossroads are provided in an effective and efficient manner. You are responsible for arranging meetings and conferences and taking minutes. You will maintain several databases and order relevant office supplies. You perform reception duties by answering calls and mails and will greet and direct visitors.

So who are you?

You have a MBO level of working and thinking and relevant work experience as office assistant or secretary. You are a so called ‘self starter’, take the initiative and are result oriented. You are able to liaise with a variety of stakeholders and to set priorities and organise. You also have excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. You have a close affinity with Crossroads goals.

What we offer?

We offer a versatile position within a young and enthusiastic team within a growing organisation. You will have the freedom and opportunity to continue developing yourself and achieve tangible results. Due to our commitment to spend our funds on achieving our mission, the salaries within Crossroads are not excessive. The monthly salary is non-negotiable and fixed at € 1,750.00 gross, based on a 40 hour working week. In addition we offer a pension plan and compensation for travel costs.

Interested?

If you recognise yourself in this outline and have seen your core qualities detailed above, we would like to meet you!
If interested, please send your Letter of Introduction (maximum one page) and CV (maximum two pages) within a single document at the latest by 17 December 2010 to HR@xrds.nl.
For inquiries related to the position, you can email or contact Jessie Murillo Bisbal, Office Manager, at 31 (0)20-545-1444.

Internal candidates have preferential treatment.

Noah's Ark is extended!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

As of the 7th of November, there are now Groene and Oranje Tijgers (Green and Orange tigers). On the 14th of November each group already had 9 Tijgers attending! The Tijger group is the first class in which we tell stories about God from the Bible, sing songs with them and do a small craft activity. It is great to see how pure and open these children are to hear The Message. They are so free in sharing as well. God can really use them in His plan! We hope Noah's Ark can welcome more new children in the future.

Christmas Packages

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

We still needs lots of articles like: Sugar, long life milk, coffee, tea, cans of vegetables, lemonade, olive oil, sunflower oil, cacao, instant soup, nuts, dried fruits, pasta and flower.
Luxurious articles like butter, cookies, chocolate, drinks and candy are also welcomed just as articles for personal care.
We would also like to treat the families with some non-food articles as well such as toys, coloring books, pencils, pens, games, candles and blankets.

Please also consider making a package with your family or donating the package you receive from work.

Please contact me as soon as possible at geertje@delport.nl or 020-6260834 if you would like to donate.

All gifts, small and big, are welcome and appreciated

Missions at Crossroads

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Hi! I am David Kirton. I am a member at ‘Cross Roads’ and I’ve been attending this church for almost 4 years now. I’m a drummer in one of the worship teams since 2007. Maybe you’ve seen me drum one time. In this article you can read more about me, about what brought me here and what other things I’m doing in Amsterdam.
I was born 33 years ago in Barbados, an island in the Atlantic Ocean just north-east of Venezuela. My whole life I knew that I am called to missions. I was only 14 years old when my father Pastor Michael G. Kirton, blessed me out of his church to pursue God’s dreams and visions! Growing up in church, I was very involved in church programs. In my teenage and young adult years, I travelled throughout the Caribbean, and Barbados ministering through preaching, dance, song, street evangelism and different ministries. In 2002 while I was Director of ‘Youth for Christ Barbados’, I was invited to Curacao for youth ministry and it was there where God spoke clearly to me that He was sending me to the Netherlands. He gave me a vision of strong (Christian) youth moving across schools, universities and communities, transforming them with His glory as they went. It was for this reason that I came to do a DTS with ‘Youth with a Mission Amsterdam’ (YWAM) in 2003. There began my journey as a missionary, of pursuing the vision for the Netherlands that God had given me.
Since then I have been reaching out to children, teens and young adults in different ways. Through YWAM Amsterdam, I´ve set up a discipleship school for university students called the ‘Take-Off’. The first school finished successfully in June, with 8 students graduating and being sent out to transform their universities! In partnership with other Christian organizations I give workshops for problem youth, giving them hope for achieving something in life through learned or developed skills. I give drumming lessons to young kids in Zuid-Oost to build relationship with and disciple them. Because they are the future and if they change the neighborhood will change! I’m also now on the leadership-team of YWAM Amsterdam. Together with the other leaders, we are seeking after Gods heart for Amsterdam, this nation and the rest of the world and our roll in that.

My vision is to see the body of Christ mobilized to disciple this post modern generation while doing it myself through the use of my own God given gifts and talents, and to see youth knowing God and making Him known wherever they go.
I will keep on following Gods voice and believing in His big plans for Amsterdam and the Netherlands! Support through prayer and finances enables me to go after what I am called for. I am thankful that Crossroads wants to partner with me in this vision.

24-7 Prayerweek

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Prayer is something most of us usually struggle with. But if that's you, then especially, the 24/7 prayerweek is something for you! If you have never prayed for more than 5 minutes, then come and sign up for an hour or two at the 24/7 prayerweek. We build a 24/7 prayer room (check out www.24-7prayer.com) to pray for a whole week!!

At this very moment someone, somewhere is praying; maybe through word, thought, flowing through a pen or painted on a wall, they're speaking to their creator. In 24-7 Prayer Rooms in any number of countries, from different streams of the Church, Christians are learning to pray by praying.
The first night and day 24-7 Prayer Room started by accident in September '99. A small group of English youth took on the extreme challenge of praying non-stop for a month. They broke days into hour slots, filled a room with creative inspiration and expected to fail after a week... God turned up and they couldn't stop 'til Christmas! A passion for God's presence, a rise in faith and answers to prayer brought new life to their Church.

We, as Crossroads, recognize the power, the wonder, the mystery of prayer. And so, we want to dive in! For a whole week! And we would LOVE you to join us! Sign up for time slot and come to learn how to pray...

If you can't make it to church the coming weeks, but you do like to sign up for the prayerweek, please do so, by filling out this form

Please fill in your name *

E-mail adres

Praying Together!
Obviously prayer it's more fun (and more powerfull!) when you pray together... As a LIFEgroup, a team or group of friends, feel free to come as a group! If so, please indicate with how many you are planning to come.

With how many people are you planning to come?

On which day would you like to come and pray? (if you want to come and pray more than 1 day, please sign up for each day separetly)

	Sunday the 29th
	Monday the 30th
	Tuesday the 31st
	Wednesday the 1st
	Thursday the 2nd
	Friday the 3rd
	Saturday the 4th

Which timeslots would you like to come and pray?

	Early Morning (6:00-8:00)
	Morning (8:00-10:00)
	Late Morning (10:00-12:00)
	Early Afternoon (12:00-14:00)
	Afternoon (14:00-16:00)
	Late Afternoon (16:00-18:00)
	Early Evening (18:00-20:00)
	Evening (20:00-22:00)
	Late Evening (22:00-0:00)
	Night (be a hero..!) 0:00-6:00

What if that didn't work?
We can imagine that the form above didn't allow you to fill in what you wanted to fill in. For instance, you want to pray more than one day and therefore you need more timeslots to clarify or you only want to pray for an hour or in a different timespan. That's all ok. Please clarify in the textbox below...

Additional information

Photo's for the website needed!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Then send them to be used on the website! Email the pictures to jurjen@xrds.nl! It can be anything. LIFEgroup gatherings, socials, worship, childrens ministry or whatever expresses something of the vibrance of this church.

Crossroads is going local!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0200

You need 'brothers and sisters' who live close to you. It is important to know other Crossroads people who live in your town or neighborhood. As one person from Haarlem wrote, "I wonder how many people driving around me on the A9 are also going to Crossroads. I wonder if someone in the next street might also be going to Crossroads, but to a different service..".

That's why more and more people are taking the initiative to meet other Crossroaders who live in the same neighborhood or city. Over the last few months BBQ’s, lunches, picnics in parks, local worship nights, and even a theater program have been organized by locals to meet other locals. In places like Hoofddorp, Haarlem and the surrounding Kennemerland, Utrecht, ’t Gooi and Amsterdam-West. And the fruit growing out of these events is abundant: many new contacts, new friendships, new LIFEgroups even.

And you know what’s so great about this? These events weren’t planned or delegated by me or any of the staff. No top-down organization. They were truly ‘grass roots’. The ideas and implementation came from ‘ordinary’ (or should I rather say ‘extra-ordinary’?) Crossroads people and LIFEgroups who saw a need and simply did something about it.

Church isn't about activities. It's about relationships. And relationships grow when people meet each other. Eat together. Laugh together. Pray together. Share life together. And what is easier than doing this with your Crossroads 'neighbors'? Might it be time for you to get to know your Crossroads neighbors? It is so simple. Food, fellowship and fun. Advertise it on the Crossroads message board in the lobby, put it on facebook or twitter. Tell your friends to tell their friends... Enjoy!

DAD-KID CAMP 2010

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0200

On Friday, after experiencing an eternity on the Dutch highways, the dads made it to the camp. The hours in the car were soon forgotten when they were welcomed with a great meal prepared by Dorien Renselaar. The tents were set up, and all the dads and their kids were invited to present themselves on the cat walk. The theme was “Royal Family,” so each of us was given an orange t-shirt, and the dads and their kids were asked to add some accessories that went along with that theme. Most dads were not too comfortable parading up and down the cat walk with their kids, but it was a good time of getting to know each other. We were all given an envelope with the name of a family that we secretly had to serve that weekend, and we ended the evening with a camp-fire and roasted some marshmallows.

Saturday morning, most woke up early and had a wonderful breakfast under a clear blue sky. We started the day worshiping together, listening to a teaching on what it means to be “royal family,” and doing a prayer circuit. The fathers and kids were put in 8 teams. Each team would go through a circuit with different fun prayer activities.

After lunch, the infamous ‘game afternoon’ started. The team had again done an outstanding job of preparing outdoor games…and this year was even more challenging than last year! Some dads had a hard time keeping up with the kids. After an afternoon of games involving water, running, climbing and crashing through the woods, we ended the afternoon with a BBQ together. After the BBQ, many dads were ready for bed… but an evening game was still to come, the favorite of many kids. This year, we hadto hunt for deer, bears, wolves and ducks in a dark, pitch-black forest. We had to be careful, though, not to be caught by the police. And after another campfire, we went to bed again.

On Sunday morning, we woke up to the rustic sound of rain on our tents. But the rain could not spoil the fun, as we gathered for worship again and shared in our families and with other families what we had learned this weekend and how we could apply that when were home again.

Many, many thank you's to Hanneke and to all the volunteers for a Royal treatment this weekend! We had a great time!

New service Times

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Love and Logic

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0200

"Your children will win because they'll learn responsibility and the logic of life by solving their own problems. And you'll win because you'll establish healthy control-without resorting to anger, threats, nagging or exhausting power-struggles.

Parenting with love and logic puts the fun back into parenting."

If you are interested, please email us at lovelogic@xrds.nl.
Also if you have any questions or would like to sign-up please contact: Britt Nicholas (mobile) 0624988731 or (email) lovelogic@xrds.nl.

Where does the term love and logic come from? Effective parenting centers around love: love that is not permissive, love that doesn’t tolerate disrespect, but also love that is powerful enough to allow children to make mistakes and permit them to live with the consequences of those mistakes.
Most mistakes do have logical consequenses. And those consequenses, when accompanied by empathy-our compassionate understanding of the child’s disappointment, frustration and pain-hit home with mind-changing power.

Parenting with love and logic is not a foolproof system that works every time. No system can promise that. But it is a system that has a strong chance of working in most situations. Parents will find succes using the love and logic attitude. Once the attitude is mastered, handling most problems becomes second nature, even when a particular problem has not been explored. The approach is more of an attitude that will allow our children to grow in maturity as they grow in years. It will teach them to think, to decide, and to live with their decisions. In short, it will teach them responsibility. If we can teach our children responsibility, we’ve accomplished a great portion of our parental task.

The Bible provides insight on many parenting issues. Much of what it teaches is summarized beautifully in a familiar Old Testament proverb:‘Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.’ (Proverbs 22:6)What greater gift can parents give their children than the opportunity for a joyful, productive, and responsible adult life? We believe the principles of Parenting with love and logic will help achieve that result. (From the introduction of Parenting with love and logic.)

The Sense and non-sense about dating

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Date: Oct: 10, 17, 24 and 31st 2010.Time: 11:00-12:30u.

Sign up went really well, the course is fully booked. If you have NOT signed up, you will get a second chance in January, when we will run the course again.

For more info, email Aukelien van Abbema at singles@xrds.nl.

Missions at Crossroads

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0200

In 2010 we are financially supporting 13 missionaries, 5 mission organizations and have given several onetime gifts for short term outreaches. By the end of the year we will have given €95.602,00 in total. This in itself shows our serious commitment to missions both across the street and across the world.

Our missionaries serve in many capacities: church planting, mercy ministries, urban missions, social justice, evangelism, leadership training. You can find Crossroads missionaries ministering in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Europe, Africa and Asia. We are so very thankful for those from among us who are willing to “go” and share the very good news of Jesus.

If you would like to know more about missions at Crossroads or information about our missionaries and supported organizations, you can visit our missions’ board in the lobby on Sunday or join us for our monthly missions’ prayer time on the last Sunday of every month. We would love to have you with us.

As a final note, you should know that Crossroads now has an active Missions Committee. Though the elders are responsible for policy and final decisions for financial support, the missions committee is responsible for the day to day oversight of missions at Crossroads. This includes everything from prayer support, pastoral care for our missionaries, mobilization, training, interviewing missionary candidates and making recommendations to the elders. The missions committee at present is: Bill Hoopes, Theo Zwart (Frontiers), Phoebe Lagerweij and Steve Ashworth (YWAM). Please keep this team in your prayers as well as all our missionaries.

Bill Hoopes
Executive Pastor, Crossroads International Church

Poldersport, fun and following Jesus

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0200

We did a Polder survival trek which involved different ways of crossing polder watercourses. The whole experience included various ropes, trapezes, rope ways and a raft to get across as well as assorted balancing and agility exercises. Afterwards we had a relaxing picnic in the Amsterdamse bos. A true highlight on our youth ministry calender.

Another highlight on our youth ministry calender is the upcoming Youth Retreat: “Inked”. The Youth Retreat will take place from 1-3 October and we will stay in the group accommodation (not in tents) at De Woensberg near Huizen.

Before I explain the weekend theme “Inked”, a little background information: Most Christians have used the well-known quote from St. Francis of Assisi, “Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.” It is a challenge to Christians to live the Gospel with their actions - to let their lifestyle display the character and message of Christ.

The challenge for many people is to live that life consistently. When surrounded by church friends and family members we may feel more inclined to visibly demonstrate a commitment to Christ. However, when placed in an environment where we are not surrounded with positive reinforcement, the lifestyle “marks” of a Christian may become less visible and in many cases disappear.

The youth retreat will challenge us to study and apply the attributes of Christian living that can be seen in our lives at all times. Like a tattoo, these virtues can be permanently inked on our lives and are not concealed or removed when we enter an environment that challenges our commitment to Christ.

We will examine different virtues of Christian living, which will demonstrate why a Biblical worldview is the key to having the optimum life experience. It will encourage us to establish a moral integrity when studying Scripture that will leave us marked for life as we apply these lessons to our lives within and outside the church walls.

Please pray for the retreat, the youth leaders and teenagers. Pray that every teenager at the retreat will see himself/herself as our Heavenly Father sees them. Pray that the Holy Spirit will teach all of us the things that we need to learn to fulfill the purpose that He has for us.

Lessons we learn from dirty feet

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Somehow I had always failed to notice this one particular verse which introduces the story, John 13:3: “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God”. But now this verse really struck me. Because what one would expect after such a statement is either a demand of Jesus to be worshiped or a clear demonstration of his unlimited power. How different is Jesus' response....

Instead of being worshipped or displaying his omnipotence he goes on his knees to serve!!! “so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him” (v. 4-5). For us westerners in the 21^st century it is hard to grasp how humiliating washing somebody else’s feet was in 1^st century Palestine. Only the lowest of slaves were doing this. Because it was considered to be the dirtiest of jobs. Imagine the feet of people were wearing open sandals in dusty streets with open drains…

Jesus realizes he is Lord of Lords and King of Kings, coming from God and returning to God, and picks up the job of the least of slaves. Isn't this both mind blowing and heartwarming at the same time? THIS is our God! And because God is like this, he wants us, his followers to reflect him. That’s why Jesus says (v. 14-15): “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you”.

What would Crossroads look like if we would really obey this call to serve each other sacrificially? How would our world look like if every Jesus-follower would start to really act like their Master? I look forward having a summer break to dream about this. And to start following Jesus' example more intentionally myself. More than enough dirty feet waiting to be washed! ;-)

Membership Seminar

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0200

At Crossroads we believe that membership really does matter. We are an ‘open’ community in that we want many, many people - no matter what the level of their faith commitment - to feel able to participate in our services and activities.

We do not see the church as a closed ‘club’ for the faithful, but as a safe place in which to pursue questions of faith.

But we do need to know who is ‘with us’ in building this community; who are the people who feel so strongly about the goals and values we hold that they want not only to participate but to commit, to play a part in nurturing and growing the

community towards greater impact and effectiveness. We call this being ‘strong at the centre: open at the edge’, and the decision to become a member is a decision to move from the ‘crowd’ to the committed ‘core’.

If you would like to know more about what being a member involves, we invite you to join the "Membership Seminar" on Sunday the 18 July 2010 at the

Amsteveen College, Startbaan 12, Amstelveen at 11:00- 12:30. Future dates: 19 September 2010, 14 November.

Please sign up at Sherry@xrds.nl or call 020- 545 1442.

Introducing LifeSpeak

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0200

“So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:9-13)

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” (Rev. 3:20)

God speaks! Throughout Scripture, when men and women of God are perplexed, threatened, need insight, wisdom or counsel God instructs us to “inquire” of Him. The first step in discerning God’s will is to ask. The second is to listen.

Much depends upon how we open our life to hear and follow God’s voice. For example, how can you be sure that what you hear is actually God speaking and not the extension of your own desire? How do you guard against blind spots in your thinking, or self-deception in your heart? What steps can you take to test discernment spiritually so you can respond in confident obedience to God’s call? These are the questions that the LifeSpeak process is designed to address. You have probably heard us talk about LifeSpeak but you may be wondering what it is. This article introduce the process and explain how you can prayerfully support each of the four men who are in LifeSpeak right now.

LifeSpeak is a comprehensive spiritual discernment process for men and women who want to hear, discern and obey God’s call for their life and ministry. It is a communal discernment process. What we mean by “communal” is that each leader who participates not only seeks to hear God speak to him or her personally, but invites outside observers and trusted friends to listen with him and to speak into his call, gifting and appointment also. This process includes many hours of prayer, personal reflection and small group life-on-life dialogue.

Right now at Crossroads, four senior leaders are in the LifeSpeak process: Johan Verboom, Bill Hoopes, Martijn Rutgers and Daniel de Wet. Please pray for these men and for their LifeSpeak Groups, that all would hear God’s voice clearly.

Here is what is happening and how you can pray. . .

The purpose of LifeSpeak is to come alongside each of these men to truthfully acknowledge his strengths, weaknesses and opportunities in ministry through comprehensive spiritual discernment. A special LifeSpeak Group has been formed for each leader, consisting of five to seven people who know the leader well so they can speak truth with love into his life. Each Group will meet at least four times during the month of June. Each meeting is ninety minutes long. Between each meeting we pray about specific ideas, questions or promptings that emerge in our conversation, asking God to bring understanding, clarity and direction about His will. In fact, each Group member has pledged to pray daily for the leader, to affirm and encourage him and to speak truthfully about any weaknesses or concerns that are revealed that God wants to heal, correct or change.

Most groups have already met twice. We are exploring questions such as, “What is your passion?” “What are you gifts and strengths?” “What is God teaching you through recent events?” “Where are you weak?” “What do you need to change or correct?” “How does change, failure, or transition impact your call to ministry?” “What is God saying to you? And to your spouse?”

Through prayer and conversation, the Group identifies and explores barriers that might be holding the leader back, or keeping the leader from serving fully in the power of the Spirit’s call and gifts. The purpose is to help each man hear and discern God’s voice amidst the busyness of ministry and the tumult of family emotions, fears and pressures in his life. With the prayer and perspective of others, each man can perceive what he may not have been able to see on his own, and hear God’s voice more clearly. Testing God’s will with others allows each man to identify and address any doubts, fears or uncertainties he might have. Jesus tells us to test and discern His will by the fruit it produces, so we look for the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control).

LifeSpeak provides a safe place for a leader to see himself truthfully and to discern God’s direction using spiritual measures. Our goal is to encourage and bless each leader so that they may serve with confidence here at Crossroads or in another place of service.

The great, Good News is that God is for us, not against us. He speaks! In fact, God has already provided all we need to discern His – in His Word, through His Spirit and with His people. This is the work and responsibility of each person and the church. This means your participation through encouragement and prayer is also needed. Please pray for Johan, Bill, Martijn and Daniel. Pray that God would reveal his perfect will to each man personally through the dialogue and affirmation of their LifeSpeak Group.

Our hope is to complete the LifeSpeak process by the end of the summer. When the process is complete, each leader and LifeSpeak Group will share what has been discerned with the elders and with the congregation.

Thank you for praying!

Baptism service

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0200

This Sunday 13th of June 2010 we will have baptisms again. If you would like to be baptized or if you want to have more information about baptism in general, then you can contact us at baptism@xrds.nl. Someone will get in touch with you and schedule a meeting with you.

The joy of Pentecost

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0200

But what is Pentecost and where does it fit in?

Pentecost is the festival when we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is celebrated on the Sunday 50 days after Easter. Pentecost is really the birthday of the church and the start of the church's mission to the world.

We keep track of time and seasons of the year by using calendars that provide us opportunities to observe and celebrate certain events or occasions. The changing seasons of the year also provide us with recurring opportunities to celebrate our faith in Jesus Christ. During Advent we prepare for Jesus' birth and our own renewal. At Christmas we celebrate the joy of Jesus' birth - of God with us. Through the Season after Epiphany we read of Jesus' baptism, His call of the disciples, and His ministry of teaching and healing. Lent is a season preparation for Easter. It is a time of decision and commitment. The Easter Season, or "The Great Fifty Days" from Easter to Pentecost, is a season to celebrate the resurrection appearances, the gift of the Holy Spirit. We see the power that Jesus embodied, being passed on to the disciples. In the Season after Pentecost we look at what it means to be part of the church - Christ's body - carrying on His work in the world.

Pentecost Sunday is the day we celebrate the fact that now we are Spirit-people! God is here, with us now, by his present Spirit. God is here by his Spirit to hear our songs, to listen to our prayers, to strengthen our faith through hearing the Word and God is present by his Spirit to seal the Word in our hearts. May God continue to fill us with the knowledge of His will, with all the wisdom and understanding that His Spirit gives.

Why we must listen

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 31 May 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The meeting is on Monday night, May 7th, from 19:30 to 21:30 in the Amstelveen College Auditorium.

Christianity has always has been a faith of hearing. Moses’ words to Israel were, “Hear, O Israel, the LORD our God, the LORD is one.” (Deut 6:4) Paul wrote, “Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” (Rom. 10:17)

What does this mean for us?

Scripture continually links listening to obedience. For example, both the Greek and Hebrew word for “hear” includes obedience in its meaning. The parable of the sower is a good example. The whole parable is about hearing. In the parable, God’s Word is the seed, we are the soil. How we listen and follow what we hear shows what kind of soil we are, and what kind of fruit we will produce.

Jesus taught: If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that `every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. (Matt. 18:15-17). Does the word “listen” surprise you? Why didn’t Jesus say, “If your brother repents,” instead? What is it about listening that is so important to living a life of reconciliation?

In Philippians, Paul addresses a problem between two women in the church. We don’t know what the problem is, Paul doesn’t say. Even more, he does not seem to care. What is important to Paul is that the women “agree,” and if they can’t “agree with each other in the Lord” the church is responsible to help them. (Philippians 4:2-3) What does it mean to “agree in the Lord?” What would this look like in practice in our families and friendships?

These are the kind of questions we will be looking at and answering together on Monday night. Come for good, lively interaction and learning as we discover together how to put our “eyes in our ears.”

Dialogue & Discovery: Monday night, June 7th, from 19:30 to 21:30 in the Amstelveen College Auditorium.

Stained Glass Masquerade

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 +0200

She was standing outside the front door of the church smoking when a fellow came up to her and said: “Don’t you know that smoking is bad for you and that it’s a sin?” Her reply to this earnest young man was “At least my sin is public and out in the open, what about you? Is there anything you’re doing privately that you would be ashamed of people knowing?” There was only an embarrassed silence as the young man stormed off.

There is a great song by the group Casting Crowns called “Stained Glass Masquerade”:

So I tuck it all away, like everything’s okay
If I make them all believe it, maybe I’ll believe it too
So with a painted grin, I play the part again
So everyone will see me the way that I see them
Are we happy plastic people
Under shiny plastic steeples
With walls around our weakness
And smiles to hide our pain
But if the invitation’s open
To every heart that has been broken
Maybe then we close the curtain
On our stained glass masquerade

This song talks about the struggles many of us face deep down but can never show in the church. How sad is it that we can’t be real with one another among brothers and sisters in the Lord!? Church should be the one place that we CAN show what’s inside!
Living a transparent life is a risky endeavor unless we are planted in community that reflects the life of Christ in a radical, accepting, forgiving way. May Crossroads be a church that so radically expresses the life of Christ that people can be coaxed to “close the curtain on our stained glass masquerade”, step out into the light and receive the healing and forgiveness that God intends.

HEART2HEART RETREAT

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Mon, 10 May 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Location: Amerongen on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.Date: From June 4th, Friday evening until Sunday afternoon, June 6th.Cost: 150euro. We would love to fill the center with up to 84 women from different churches and backgrounds– invite your family and friends to join us. Sign up: women@xrds.nl.

PRAYER WEEKEND FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The Night of Prayer is initiated by Open Doors in The Netherlands, an organisation globally dedicated to support christians in countries where oppression and persecution are taking place.

The purpose of this Night of Prayer is that christians dedicate themselves, by means of prayer, to their fellow believers who regularly have to spent many nights in prisons and/or police cells.

Why pray at night? “Especially at night, many persecuted christians are experiencing a hard time. This is the moment doubt strikes.”, says Open Doors spokesman Klaas Muurling. Also in Scripture we see that many christians pray during the night. When Peter was imprisoned, the church prayed at night and he was released.”

This year the Night of Prayer is focussed on christians in North Korea and the Muslim World. Muurling: “In these countries christians experience and suffer from discrimination and persecution because they believe in Jesus Christ. Many times this causes them to loose their jobs, not have access to Bibles, being taken to prison, being tortured, and sometimes even being killed/murdered. It is a great signal when we can tell persecuted christians that so many christians in the Netherlands and Belgium are praying for them.”

We would like to invite you to join us for this Night of Prayer at our Ministry Center. Coffee, tea and some snacks will be provided. If you would like to take a break during the night you can bring your sleeping bag as well. Doors open at 21:00pm; exact starting time will be 22:00pm. After a general introduction we will show clips with information about christians in North Korea and the Muslim World. After each clip we will take time to pray.

Sign up: Sunday May 16 and May 23 after the 1st and 2nd service. For questions please email: jokeleijen@gmail.com For immediate sign-up, please email: info@xrds.nl

Heart@Heart Retreat

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Location: Amerongen on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug
Date: From June 4th, Friday evening until Sunday afternoon, June 6th.
Cost: 150euro*.
We would love to fill the center with up to 84 women from different churches and backgrounds– invite your family and friends to join us.
Sign up: women@xrds.nl
Details and sponsorship* info on the Heart2Heart Women's Retreat

Community starts with you!

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +0200

In fact, we believe that the Christian life can only be relevantly lived out in the context of community. It is my job as Community pastor to think about, develop and nurture community life in Crossroads. And in all honesty, I can tell you: this is not easy!

Because Crossroads is quite different from any other church.... 1500 regular visitors spread over three services with 40 different nationalities, all kinds of social, church and theological backgrounds, coming to Crossroads from places as far as Antwerp and Zwolle.... How do you create a close knit community out of this? Sociologists will say it's impossible. As Christians we know it is possible, because of Jesus. Because Jesus unites us despite our differences. He can draw us into deep fellowship with each other despite human barriers. So we believe this, but how do we do it?

I am deeply convinced that smaller is better. Although worshiping with 500 other people in a service is great, it hard to connect with those 499 other people. That's why we also need to be part of a smaller group of people to grow together as followers of Jesus. Crossroads wants to help you plug into these kind of groups: LIFE groups, mentoring relationships, accountability groups or transformation trios, the Foundations group, the Alpha course… We can facilitate it, but in the end you are the one who makes community happen.

Think and pray about what you would like to be part of. Sign up for a group. Let me know if you would like to start a group (we are always short on LIFEgroup leaders!). Talk to others about it and get them involved. Eat, pray, share and care together. Because community starts with you!

Martijn Rutgers, Community pastor, martijn@xrds.nl

Become a buddy of a former prostitute

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Social workers make contact with the prostitutes and offer help to those wishing to quit. In addition to personal attention and care, they share the Gospel with the women behind the windows and explain how the sacrifice of Jesus offers new life. One of the latest Scarlet Cord initiatives is the ‘Buddy Project’, where women befriend and support those who have left prostitution.

The social workers from Scarlet Cord frequently come across women wishing to step out of prostitution. In the past these women had to be directed to other welfare organizations, which didn’t always turn out the way they hoped. There were long waiting lists, the women sometimes felt misunderstood and only some of their problems were solved. To fulfil the needs of ex-prostitutes, Scarlet Cord started developing and presenting its own programmes in 2004 and they have been very successful.

Based on these years of experience, Scarlet Cord developed in cooperation with Randstad HR Solutions a programme called ‘A New Perspective’. A pilot started in Amsterdam this February. In addition to regular psychological and social help, the former prostitutes have opportunities for education and/or retraining so they can eventually find a new job.

The prostitutes who come into contact with Scarlet Cord’s social workers have taken an important step towards a different life. However, a majority of the women who manage to quit prostitution through our programmes can feel very isolated. Due to the nature of their work many have lost contact with friends and family, making it difficult to function in society.

The ‘Buddy Project’ aims to address this problem. As buddies, women support women who have quit prostitution, for example, by accompanying them on appointments with the council or other institutions, introducing them to a church or club, or enjoying leisure activities together. We are looking for more volunteers for this vital role so if you are interested, contact Ineke Punt for more information or check the website www.scharlakenkoord.nl.

Youth Retreat

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200

We also learned through some great games. Just who were the most competitive people in the group Thankfully no one lost an eye playing Spoons, no hands were broken playing Slaps, or limbs lost playing Ninja (If you don't know what Ninja is, there's a great video from the retreat here. We were also able to find out who likes to stay up late and who goes to bed early. Many of us leaders realized we are not as young as we think we are. Many of us also came back a couple kilos heavier than when we went because the food was so good.

Thank you to the parents who sent their children on the retreat. It was a joy getting to know your children better and find out how we as leaders can better minister to them and the group. A special thank you to the leaders, cooks, and staff that helped make the retreat possible. Can't wait till next year!

Short term serving opportunity

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Experienced people will prepare and lead the program. You could be one of the 10 helpers needed to assist. And of course, you would be able to attend the second service yourself.

After the summer program has ended, we will sit down with you, have a cup of coffee and talk about your experience. Together we can decide whether you might want to continue and where you might best serve.

If you have any questions or want to sign up, let us know at the sign-up table. (This coming Sunday is the last time.) or at children@xrds.nl

Fresh! “There is a time for everything”

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200

God has good plans

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

For a reminder of where we stand at this time here is a link to our previous updates.

Now more than ever we are seeking God’s guidance and praying for continued unity as the process moves forward. Would you stand with us in prayer as we remind ourselves everyday that it is not us, but God who brings change? We can only be tools in this process.

Prayer gathering continue every Monday evening at the Ministry Centre. You are welcome to join us at 19.45. Please also consider praying for Crossroads daily in the weeks and months of change ahead. Love never fails.

Dad Kid camp 2011

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200

At night we got to know each other a little bit as every family had prepared a collage at home that told part of the story of their family.
The theme of the weekend was “heaven is home” , about the verses in Matthew 9:19 -21
Saturday morning started with some gym exercises to wake up, followed by a good breakfast and a morning of teaching and prayer activities. The Dad’s got to spend some meaningful time with their kids to talk about things that matter in life, or better yet, that matter in eternity.
The afternoon was spent doing games on the beach of the Henschotermeer. The weather was very cooperative and as we returned we were greeted by the smell of BBQ. In the dark of the evening we played an exciting game made even more exciting by the constant flashes of lightning in the distance. When it was time to go to bed, rain was pouring down and some dad’s had to relocate their bed for the night as their tents were not suited for the Dutch summer weather.
Sunday the Dad’s got to spend some time together talking about the important role a Dad has in a child’s life. We got to encourage each other and pray for each other to ask God’s help in raising our beautiful children.
We are all very thankful to Hanneke and her team for another excellent weekend. The Dad Kid Camp has become a great way to start the season! We can’t wait to go again next year!

Click here for more pictures

Sense and Nonsense about Dating

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

What? A 5-week course providing you with lots of insights regarding dating and singleness, including a male/female session where specific gender-related issues are addressed. We have inspiring teachings, small group discussions and assignments to get the most out of this course. The book we use is that of Dr. Henry Cloud ‘How to Get a Date Worth Keeping’, which will be provided at the start of the course. Teaching input is provided by a DVD series by Dr. Cloud, by singles at Crossroads, by people who married later in life and by people giving the pre-marriage course. All these perspectives combine to help you figure out your own perspective on healthy Christian dating.
When? Sunday mornings, 5 weeks in a row, September 11, 18, 25, October 2 and 9, 11:00-12:30.
For whom? Singles wanting to get the best out of their dating experiences. For you to get the most out of the course and teaching, commitment is key. When you sign up we expect you to be present for the all of the sessions.
Costs? We ask a contribution of € 20 to cover the costs of materials.

Hospitality as a lifestyle

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

It is fairly easy to ask friends to come over and have fun. Hospitality does mean making whoever crosses your path feel welcome and safe, appreciated and known by their name. When we love and open our hands and hearts to receive someone, we are, in fact, extending God's and heaven's hospitality to them.

In Romans 12:13, Paul says: “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

As part of the welcome team, we are scheduled on some Sunday mornings to practice hospitality to newcomers and visitors of our church. It is a great opportunity to do that but we also realise that we desire to be committed to practice hospitality at all times and everywhere to everyone! Our hospitality should not be limited to our duty on Sundays. Sometimes you may only have one chance to show your hospitality. So, don't miss it!

God is inviting us to be hospitable to all at all times. With humility and open hearts, spontaneously and deliberately, consciously and creatively, with flexibility and integrity, tact and wisdom, availability, love and a yielded life.

Is Hospitality for all of us to practice? Yes, hospitality is something everyone can give. It starts with what you have in your hands, offer it with a cheerful heart. Sometimes it is just a cold glass of water that you can offer to someone thirsty. Know that God's blessing is attached to it. Offer your time and your love to others as if you are offering it to the Lord Himself! Imitate Jesus who loved us more than life. Love others, live for others. Lives will change, including yours!

When God offers you the opportunity to be generous, He will honour and bless you. He will show you His presence!

When missionaries pray for change

info@xrds.nl (XRDS) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 +0200

The first time Mark and Jacolien van de Steenhoven walked through the Spangen district of Rotterdam, they knew Mark would soon start a job at Crossroads Rotterdam. As they stood in front of the house where they now live, God started to touch their hearts for the people of this multicultural neighbourhood and they prayed for other Christians to come and live there too. It was the start of a remarkable journey.

On Good Friday I took a train to Rotterdam to visit Mark and Jacolien. Walking from the railway station to their house, I passed women in Arabic clothing who were sting outside their homes enjoying each others company while their children played on the streets. It all looked very peaceful. I also crossed a square where lots of young Cape Verdean people were hanging out with their fancy cars and loud music, preparing for a racing contest.

It is now almost two years ago since the Crossroads missionaries bought a house and moved to Rotterdam. They continued to pray for the neighbourhood, and some other Christians have since joined them. Various churches are working together now in a project called ‘Faith for Spangen’.

Mark told me that he will join Youth for Christ, which is running a Youth Alpha Course with some of the Cape Verdean youngsters who brighten up the neighbourhood in a way that can sometimes make it hard to sleep at night. In addition, Mark is involved in organising the upcoming Serve the City Rotterdam on 21-23 May. Jacolien has found a job around the corner with Timon, an organisation that helps young adults who are struggling to find their way in life.

After hearing some wonderful stories of how God is working in their lives I joined them for a service in Crossroads Rotterdam. This church has been steadily growing over the last couple of years and lots of people enjoyed an interactive service on the Passion of Suffering, closing with having Communion together. You could really feel the sense of fellowship in this Church, which is so closely connected to Crossroads Amsterdam.

There is much more to tell about Crossroads Rotterdam and the work Mark and Jacolien are doing. If you read Dutch you can check the website www.xrr.nl and their blog at www.steppingstones.typepad.com. If you would like more information in English, contact mark@xrr.nl.