ALPHA IS COMING! We are now preparing to launch a small group series this Fall called the Alpha course. The Alpha course is based around answering some of the key questions at the heart of the Christian faith. The topic is how to find deeper purpose in life. These small groups will meet here at the church. Each meeting begins with sharing a meal and fellowship around the tables, followed by a twenty- minute video. After that is a discussion of the topic at each table. The course will start in mid-September and run for about eight weeks.
Our goal is to have six tables of about six people each. We have already put together a very good team of people to handle the procurement and set up of the food each week. WE STILL NEED TWO OR THREE MORE TABLE LEADERS. If you are interested in learning more about being a discussion leader or assistant leader, please see Pastor Cliff or Pastor Amy.

12 NOON- THE LORD’S PRAYER As part of the Global Methodist Church, everyone is invited to stop at 12 Noon sharp, if possible, and take a moment to pray with all our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. The Lord’s prayer is the perfect prayer model, so if time permits, why not take a moment and ponder the different segments of the prayer and go deeper with God. May God bless the Global Methodist Church worldwide as we all devote this time of prayer to God.

THE 500 CHALLENGE UPDATE: Summer 2024 is coming to an end! The goal to share 500 tracts with our neighbors, friends, and family is not over. May we take seriously our responsibility to share God’s Word continuously. It is our prayer that God has blessed our efforts here in Claymont (and beyond) to grow the kingdom of God.

QR CODE – Atonement now has a QR Code that will make giving to the church easier. Aim your camera on your phone on the code and it will take you to Atonement’s Giving Page on our website. And then, continue to follow the prompts. No App necessary!

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD: For the month of September we are still collecting donations for items previously mentioned as well as 8 oz. plastic cups, small plastic bowls, and flip flops.

Happy Birthday September!
SEPT 9 – VICTORIA BEZILLA-HOFFERTH
SEPT 11 – BOB CLARK
SEPT 13 – GEORGE BILLY-ATTOH
SEPT 13 – MIKE JONES
SEPT 14 – LYNN ARMSTRONG
SEPT 15 – NATHANIAL LANG

SAMARITIAN’S PURSE WATER PROJECT continues as Atonement collects coins and donations to fund the Clean Water Wells projects. Samaritan’s Purse tells us on their web site that 748 million people live without access to clean water. Atonement’s coin collection (in the blue water jug in the Welcome Center and in the mason jar up front at The Branch) have accumulated thousands of dollars for the Clean Well water project. Pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters (as well as cash or checks) are most welcome!

SOMETHING NEW FOR ATONEMENT’S CHURCH FAMILY…
Check out the Happy Birthday display outside the Nursery. On the Master List check for your name and birthday to make corrections if necessary. If your name is not on the master sheet, then follow directions on the display to fill our card with name and birthday date, not including year. Please make sure your writing is easy to read, so to minimize mistakes.

IMPORTANT REMINDER Thank you to all who are making an effort to attend church without using perfumes, colognes, lotions, essential oils or scented soaps that are triggering allergic reactions. Your cooperation really makes a difference for those affected. In the past few months several people have had to leave Atonement due to adverse reactions. Such as, migraine and regular headaches, difficulty swallowing, skin reactions, and asthma attacks.

KNITTING FOR A NEED: Knitters & Crocheters – Free Yarn! We have free yarn available that would be perfect for Baby Blankets and Newborn Caps. Contact Pastor Amy for details.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The 2024 altar flower chart is hung up out- side of the nursery. If interested, please add your name and phone number to the chart or call the Church office and provide your name, the date requested and whether a side or center arrangement is requested. You will be contacted regarding the bulletin write-up closer to your sign-up date. Prices: $20/vase; $40/center.

S.U.R.G.E. is starting on Friday, September 13
Meeting in the Youth Room.
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Leaders: David and Amanda Lang, Tom and Patty Bailey, Corrine Coates & volunteers

JOIN THE TEAM at Knollwood Community Center! Afterschool Program BIBLE STUDY. Beginning with the Story of David, the boy who trusted God. MONDAYS 4-5pm, Elementary Grades K-5. Starting Monday, September 12 Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me. Mark 9: 37