Mosaic Wichita, Weekly Update

Greetings and blessings to each of you,

Thankfully some of the things have begin to wind down at Mosaic after the completion of our Bikers for the Homeless, To Benefit Mosaic, Tougher Than Hell Motorcycle Rally. If you didn’t catch the story in the Wichita Eagle on the story, check out the following link:

http://www.kansas.com/2012/07/30/2427286/motorcyclists-rally-to-benefit.html#storylink=newsletter

In regards to numbers, for a first year, it wasn’t too bad, we hope to grow it next year and already have an experienced volunteer in motorcycle rallies to help organize and plan the event. In regards to media coverage it was quite successful. We had 2 television stations on site covering the event as well as The Wichita Eagle. Individuals unable to attend can still contribute to the cause and help out. You can visit www.mosaicwichita.com to send online donations, you can also mail them to P.O. Box 47261, Wichita, KS 67201. We also have a limited number of t-shirts available. You can purchase them either at Mosaic or via email. If picking up in person, we will sell the shirts for $10 each, if purchasing online we are asking $15 which will include postage and handling. Again, they are available in limited numbers.

I am also working already on our next fundraiser to be held from December 6-9. That event will draw upon various individuals from Mosaic, The Homeless Community, Celebrities, and various actors/actresses from the area as we present, An Old Fashioned Radio Show Christmas. This program will present replications of 3 Holiday Themed Old Time Radio Shows. We already have some of Wichita’s top actors volunteering for this benefit which will also include dinner, more on this event to come and if interested, please let us know.

This Sunday I conclude the series of Lessons from Vacation. The service and discussion on Sunday will start at 10:30 AM, we will have a discussion time from 9:30 AM – 10:15. I strongly encourage folks to come as we look at a church in Johnson City Tennessee that has replicated a successful formula for a church that blends the community and the homeless, with a larger than normal homeless population. There were certain things about this church which made it obvious to me that we need to work on if we are to make it.

It has been a wonderful week so far and I am looking forward to tonight’s men’s gathering starting at 6 PM. As usual, the bulletin is attached, and I hope to see as many as possible this week. For those at other churches, we could use your prayers. I would also like to meet with each of you, as pastors or lay people individually to discuss how you can help and we can partner together in this ministry which God has called us to. We are also grateful that Hope Community Church will be feeding this coming Saturday and we encourage as many as possible to come take part of that work together.

Thanks and again, God’s blessings,

Mike

If you haven't please visit our web site where you can also contribute to the ministry at www.mosaicwichita.com; you can also email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online.  If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so.  Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA


All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:


Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202


Blessings to you and have a great week.


Mike


Mosaic Church Web Site


The Keystone Kid


The Virtual Pew Web Site



Facebook


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Movie Reviews


Twitter


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Mosaic Update, Urgent Prayer Needs

Greetings this week from Mosaic. A lot is going on and today in particular I am requesting everyone to spend some time in prayer as I share some needs.

As you may or may not know we have had some issues with our landlord, it has been a good situation for us, but there are still issues. As of yet they have yet to pay for various things that need to be repaired and we are going to have to pay for those items and then reduce the cost from our rent payments.

1st we have had 2 attempted break-ins to Mosaic, the back door estimate to fix at this point in time is approximately $1,500

2nd, last Sunday while going into church we noticed our air conditioning was not working. Initial estimates indicate rather expensive repairs. We have 3 units, none of them are working, thus no air, and likely no heat until the repair. It could cost as much as $1,500 each to repair.

3rd This next Sunday, Sunday July 29 is the Bikers for the Homeless to Benefit Mosaic Tougher Than Hell Rally. We have had confirmation from one group from Dothan Alabama who is attending the festival. We hope to finish the details for the rally this week, and hopefully have a ton of riders showing up. We have ordered 144 t-shirts and hope to sell out of those shirts to raise additional funds for Mosaic.

We are a small congregation, last week, we were 95% homeless in attendance, the truth is, we don’t have a lot of funds that come into Mosaic. We could use prayers for one of several things this week:

1st Finances, that God continues to provide. We have up to this point, thankfully always taken care of our obligations and needs. This hit is huge for us.

2nd Laborers and Volunteers who could help with our needs. It is possible that there are those who could donate goods and services to fix what we need, as far as we are concerned that is as good as money.

3rd New members, we need new members, not just the homeless but especially those who would look at becoming a part of Mosaic and being serious about their commitment. If coming from another body, we would request involving us and your pastor or church family in those discussions to insure that a good transfer takes place and the ongoing spiritual needs you have are met either by Mosaic, or your current church who would more or less be sending you to a mission church.

4th Wisdom, that God would give us wisdom in the areas we need wisdom, growth, a new permanent location that is ours, etc…

This week I met with a local leader who told me, “Mike you are the person God is calling to bring the church together to support Mosaic. Wichita needs your church as no other is doing what you are doing.” This individual, I can’t share their name as of yet and I spoke for some time. I don’t know how I feel about the comment and expressed as much to him and he told me that there would be things I had to do that were uncomfortable but it didn’t change the reality that Wichita needed Mosaic. I will be contacting some pastors this week and getting with them regarding the need to according to him share:

1) My story, 2) Why Mosaic 3) The vision, short term and long term for Mosaic

You can also pray about those things.

This week’s message is a continuation of Lessons from the Vacation, When God Calls. I have already had a request from individuals to video the message so could use some help in videoing it to post on the internet. It is a message where God has spoken to me about my need in this area, it is why I think I will likely be a little more passionate than at other times, it covers issues related to my relationship to God, and listening to His call that I need to heed and listen to.

A lot going on, we need you, we appreciate the prayers and actions to assist us, more so this time in our time of need which we don’t typically endure.

On the good news side, I have had 3 individuals outside of Mosaic also contact me regarding their desire to do Final Friday at Mosaic. I am kind of stuck in the place now of organizing all of this since I have not heard from a person who volunteered to do it. I could use some help in helping out and organizing and coordinating these events that the community, as I expected, has heard about and are now contacting us to present their art at our church.

Thanks and again, God’s blessings,

Mike

If you haven't please visit our web site where you can also contribute to the ministry at www.mosaicwichita.com; you can also email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online.  If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so.  Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA


All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:


Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202


Blessings to you and have a great week.


Mike


Mosaic Church Web Site


The Keystone Kid


Facebook


The Virtual Pew


Movie Reviews


Twitter


Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page


Personal Web Site

Mosaic Pastor on Vacation, The Body Stepping Up

Greetings to all of those on the Mosaic mailing list,

This will likely be the last email from me for the next couple of weeks as I am getting ready to leave on vacation with my family tomorrow morning bright and early. I am looking forward to, and in need of time away to relax and recoup. I am not so positive it is a great thing in some regards as the area I am going to has in the past presented problems for me as it rekindles much of my past. I am also in the position of dealing with some family issue that has been really difficult as of late. I may share more about this later, but it has all happened so fast and so recent we are really trying to do all we can to hold it together at the moment, while at the same time, seeking wisdom and direction.

Now the purpose of this letter is more of a housekeeping thing as we need each of you, that are a part of Mosaic to come through, for those not a part of Mosaic but pray for us, keep reading, there is likely some things you can still help out with, and Lord knows, I need it right now.

As I have stated in the past, currently I am overwhelmed and need a break. I am not sure the trip to Tennessee is the best, but out of the love and respect for my wife who wants to visit her family, some of which are quite old now, I am making it out of respect and love for her. That said, there are some things you need to be aware of, some things that need to be done in my absence, and some things you can likely do to lighten the load.

First is some housekeeping things and I mean literally housekeeping things. As of recent with the low numbers in the day program we need people to get in early to help pick up, take out the trash, vacuum, and those types of things. This can also be done by each group in their respective space during those times after church service or use of the facility.

Next help with promotions and help for the Bikers For The Homeless Rally. We need several things here.

1) As of yet while some have expressed an interest in vending, non one has officially filled out the paperwork for vending. That must be done within 14 days of the event, or the group simply won’t be allowed to vend either their items, food etc… I am also requesting help here to try and identify vendors for the event. I have spent a great deal of time here, but so far, with limited results, I have also contacted two individuals to help with this, but so far, no results or really any reply.

2) We still need help passing out flyers and information to local locations promoting the event. I am leaving forms here, but am also attaching forms to this email. Please, pass out, distribute, more as you can.

3) We still need donations of items, coupons, whatever for door prizes. We want to encourage people to come.

4) There is a bikers rally in Cassoday the 1st Sunday of the Month, another in Potwin the 2nd Sunday of the month. We need someone to help distribute flyers to these events.

Another area that I need is coverage for the pulpit on July 8. I have spoken to several individuals, one of which gave a maybe and hasn’t confirmed as of yet, and two others that are out of town and have other obligations. I am pretty particular as to who fills the pulpit in my absence, but that said, I know others outside of Mosaic may either know someone, or, be able to help out themselves. Please contact me. Now I had someone the other day say that they wouldn’t be able to reach me during my vacation time, a reminder here of a couple of nifty gadgets in today’s world, cell phones, and the internet. While I may be difficult to reach at times, such as when I am rafting down a class 4 white water river, there is also this thing called answering machines or call notes. Leave a message, and I will be able to call you back or get you in the limited times I may be online.

I also want to remind folks, we try to feed on the first and last Saturday of each month as well as try to have things available for the homeless that come to church on Sunday. It may be something as simple as a sandwich, water, and/or chips, but it is something that folks will appreciate. We need folks to help carry this out though, by bringing, getting donated or preparing food, and of course, serving it.

The only other thing to mention is the need for someone to coordinate, and follow through with Final Friday for the church. I am in a bind as these events have been scheduled, but I really need follow through with this in the promotion of the events, and the coverage of the events. I do have artists now contacting me about coming to display their work. It would be a shame to not offer these folks the benefit of displaying their art work, which in essence also brings in potentially new people to Mosaic.

That’s about it other than I really appreciate your prayers over the next couple of weeks. I imagine there will be some tough time, but I also know there will be some good times. I appreciate how our body has come together and will continue to do so, Mosaic is made up of good folk. Appreciate your prayers and hope to see you soon.

Blessings,

Mike

Please pray for our future, our needs, and those we are called to serve

If you haven't please visit our web site where you can also contribute to the ministry at www.mosaicwichita.com; you can also email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online.  If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so.  Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA


All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:


Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202


Blessings to you and have a great week.


Mike


Mosaic Church Web Site


The Keystone Kid


Facebook


The Virtual Pew


Movie Reviews


Twitter


Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page


Personal Web Site

Mosaic Update, Friendship, Hosea, Bible Study

 

Weekly greetings to all of those who are either a part of or supportive of Mosaic, 

So far this has been an interesting, albeit, not always fun week. I have been reminded of this thing we call ‘friendship’ and what that concept of being a friend means. If anything I am convinced of this, we as humans don’t do a very good job at either being a friend, or having friends. That isn’t to say we can’t do it, or shouldn’t try, but it isn’t easy. I am grateful though for one true friend I have who will never leave me, forsake me, or as the old song reminds me: “I’ve got a friend in Jesus.” 

Now a few reminders for the week: First on Saturday we are having a Vision Team Meeting from 11 AM – 12:30. We are not feeding this week so will be able to spend time in discussions on various issues, from a building fund and committee (we have a property we can look at as early as next week), as well as committees for Fundraising, Public Awareness, Communion and so forth. Those on the committee should have received notice about this earlier in the week.

On Sunday we are completing our Study of Hosea. Let me say this, I was talking to Mary Jane about this yesterday, there are events that happen in the lives of people that I have no control over, there are at least 4 families I have dealt with in one way or another this week, that said, neither do I have control as to the relevance of the message in regards to events in ones life.  I have said it before, it is amazing how God has certain messages in place that coincide with the events going on in the lives of those in the Body of Christ. I am certain, there are components of this weeks message that we all, (including me) need to head to, apply and understand for our lives in regards to our walk with God.

I also want to give fair warning and advance, on Sunday, June 24, we will be having our service at Hope Community Church, a sister church as they celebrate Biker Sunday. They are graciously providing a van to help transport folks from and back to Mosaic. Again, this is not this week, but next week. 

I also want to say; while the bulletins are attached for those getting this via email, there is an announcement I want folks to take into consideration and start making plans for. For some time we have wanted to do more in the area of teaching in regards to our relationship with Jesus. Jenni Buckmaster has for some time been participating in a women’s bible study at Hope Community Church on Wednesday nights, we have some that have also participated in a Bible study with Ruth and Gunther on Thursday nights. We are now advocating that the women of Mosaic consider participation in the Bible Study at Hope on Wednesday nights from 6 – 8 PM. If interested in more details see Jenni about this. I know Mary Jane is looking forward to this, but we want to encourage more. We will also be starting a Bible Study and Growth Group for Men on Wednesday Nights at Mosaic from 6 – 8 PM. This will allow the women to participate together, as well as the men to meet at the church. Let me challenge, the growth of the body is critical, and while outside groups are supported, the growth of the body is something we should work on together. We would even welcome other study groups to use our facility to invite others to; of course all of this including anyone who may want to participate, including our homeless friends. I am looking forward to this. One note regarding the men’s group is as follows:  Mary Jane and I are on vacation the first 2 weeks of July as we visit Tennessee. I am recommending that this next Wednesday, we, the men, get together for a social time, maybe even a cook out at the church. We will officially start our meeting times on July 18. We will discuss the up coming weeks and times together this Wednesday, June 20. The Men’s Study will be on Being a Godly Man. Again, everyone is welcome to these groups, whether one of those who have been coming to Mosaic, thinking about it, or even if at another church who would like to plug into the Mosaic Family, even though you may be a part of another body.

This week, prepare for church; invite family, friends, and others you have been thinking about. Be in prayer for the body and the upcoming event Bikers for the Homeless to Benefit Mosaic Tougher than Hell Rally. In regards to prayer, I want to also let folks know that former church plant pastor, and Pastor Matt Lowe has accepted a position in Shreveport Louisiana as a youth pastor. Pray that God will bless Matt, Rebecca and family and especially that God sends a buyer for Matt’s house here in Wichita. 

Now in closing, understand if you want to be on the churches email list, simply email us at mikefurches@yahoo.com and I will place you on the Mosaic mailing list. 

Appreciate your prayers and hope to see you soon. 

Blessings,

Mike

Please pray for our future, our needs, and those we are called to serve.<br />

If you haven't please visit our web site where you can also contribute to the ministry at <a href="http://www.mosaicwichita.com/">www.mosaicwichita.com</a>  you can also email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com<br />

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online.  If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so.  Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’<br />

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA


All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:


Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202


Blessings to you and have a great week.


Mike


Mosaic Church Web Site


The Keystone Kid


Facebook


The Virtual Pew


Movie Reviews


Twitter


Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page


Personal Web Site

Mosaic Update, Hosea, Sin Consequence

Are you ready for the summer? I can already tell it is going to be a busy one where Mosaic will be doing a number of things. Make sure to check your bulletin which is attached if you have received this via email. If you want to be on our email list, simply email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com and I will gladly place you on our list.

As to the events going on, it all starts on Friday night, starting at 6 PM as we host a Final Friday Art Exhibit at the church. We will have two artists with their work on display and refreshments will be available. We are also looking for future artists to display their work in the future. We will be involved in other things including this Saturday, a Vision Team Meeting at 11AM until 12:30 PM. We also could use some folks to help us feed this Saturday as this Saturday and next Saturday is our feeding times and we don’t have anyone to provide these services. We will have sandwiches and other simple things to feed. I have a board meeting Saturday morning to attend for Novus Orsa, then our Vision Team Meeting at 11 and then a friend from Texas who has supported The Virtual Pew who I will be having lunch with. So any additional help will be great. Also coming up this weekend is The Vision Team Memorial Day Get Together. We will be cooking out and having a good time. Then don’t forget that on Saturday June 2 we will be having a BBQ at my house with my own BBQ recipe. I will smoke a Brisket and some Pork Ribs plus have some of my sauce available. We will be asking folks to bring sides. I will start smoking the meat early in the day, and we will start serving at 5:15 – 5:30 PM. For those that want, we will be going to The Wichita Wild Arena football game after we eat; game starts at 7:05 PM. This will be a great opportunity to bring friends, and even if not going to the football game, one can still come for a good time with food and fellowship. You can also check the other events in the bulletin including Biker Sunday at Hope Community Church on the last Sunday in June, and our own, Bikers for the Homeless to Benefit Mosaic, Tougher Than Hell Rally the last Sunday in July. We have already had various vendors and others talking about this event and volunteering to help out.

This Sunday we continue with part 3 of our study of Hosea. We will be approaching a sensitive subject for many, sin. I think sometimes we forget, there are consequences for sin and this weeks time will let us know some of those consequences. This last Sunday, the attendance was down quite a bit, please help spread the word and it is always great to see folks at Mosaic for our Sunday Morning services starting with a testimony/discussion time at 9:30 and church starting at 10:30. Hope to see you this week, and if not, I pray that God blesses you in an abundant way.

To see the video below, just click on it, if for some reason the video doesn’t appear or is distorted or not in full frame, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iszVTWUGQQM

 

Now in closing, understand if you want to be on the churches email list, simply email us at mikefurches@yahoo.com and I will place you on the Mosaic mailing list.

Appreciate your prayers and hope to see you soon.

Blessings,

Mike

Please pray for our future, our needs, and those we are called to serve.


If you haven't please visit our web site where you can also contribute to the ministry at www.mosaicwichita.com you can also email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com


Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA


All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:


Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202


Blessings to you and have a great week.


Mike


Mosaic Church Web Site


The Keystone Kid


Facebook


The Virtual Pew


Movie Reviews


Twitter


Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page


Personal Web Site

Weekly Update 10/30/11 Halloween Week

This week a lot is happening at Mosaic, of course that seems to be the norm. Let me just mention a few for this Halloween week.

Tomorrow the message at Mosaic will be part 2 of Discovering Jesus in Contemporary Culture. The theme of this week, following the Halloween theme is Finding Jesus in Horror. This will be a kind of kick off service of this format and you will see how a sermon comes about specifically from the television series, Dexter. While there may be those who are critical, I think most will be surprised.

This has been a busy week and weekend for me. Last week was the showing of my film The Long Walk at the Tallgrass Film Festival, I want to thank everyone who came out for the showing. On Monday morning I left for Tulsa to cover for Hollywood Jesus the film Home Run. While there I met representatives from various agencies including The Dove Foundation, Focus on the Family, and numerous others including John Baker, the creator of Celebrate Recovery. It was a blessing to get to be on the set of the film being made as well as spending time with others covering the film. The discussions with Mr. Baker were really quite interesting and the opportunity to visit a Celebrate Recovery meeting in Tulsa was quite enjoyable.

This week at Mosaic we start a new venture. Starting on Tuesday, November 1st we start providing overnight shelter services for homeless women. We still need 2 twin beds for the staff as we currently have cots for the women staying in the shelter. We are also in need of food for the shelter, including presweetened cereal, powdered milk, coffee, sugar, and other items for breakfast. We are also still in need of volunteers, especially women volunteers to help out on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Be in prayer as we provide these services.

This Monday, is Halloween, and as many likely already know, The Fox 104.5 FM Radio took on Mosaic as an organization to help out as they present their Classic Horror, Classic Rock event. They will be showing 2 movies The Shining and Halloween at The Forum Theater, located at 147 S. Hillside starting at 7 PM. There is a recommended donation of $10 of which all proceeds go to Mosaic.

I also want to remind everyone on the vision team, we will be meeting, next week at 12 Noon to discuss various plans and activities regarding growth and other agenda items.

Please help spread the word about Mosaic we need you, and we need to grow. We specifically continue to have needs with youth and worship so be in prayer regarding those things as we try to develop them and seek God’s wisdom and help in those areas. Also check out Mosaic’s new web site located at www.mosaicwichita.com

Until next week, God bless and don’t forget to check out the attached bulletin.

Blessings to you, and hope to see you this weekend,

Pastor Mike

Some have asked for the Panel Discussion video of Why They Like Jesus But Not The Church. That video is attached here, if it doesn’t show up or doesn’t show up in its entirety, just click the following link.
http://vimeo.com/30737572




Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:

Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

The Keystone Kid

Facebook

The Virtual Pew

Movie Reviews

Twitter

Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page

Personal Web Site

Mosaic Weekly Update, 10/19

Greetings, this weeks Mosaic update is coming a little early due to a number of events that are happening this week, one of them, my commitment to the Tallgrass Film Festival which I cover for Hollywood Jesus and the showing of my own film at that festival. It is a busy few days for me as I cover Tallgrass through Sunday evening, then I leave for Tulsa Sunday Evening and return Tuesday night to cover the making of the feature film Home Run starring Vivica A. Fox and Scott Elrod and has as a point of focus, Celebrate Recovery a substance abuse recovery program like Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous except with a strong Christian Focus. I am excited about these things but we are also getting ready to launch the Overflow Women’s Shelter for homeless women.

In the process, I know, as I have heard through the grapevine, there are those critical of providing a service like this, despite the reality that it will provide needed income for 4 families including mine, and beyond that, at no cost to the church, we will provide services that no one else was willing to provide that will help keep women alive through the Winter. The reality is, very little of Mosaic’s money, and time from its members have been impacted by this ministry or our regular homeless outreaches which occur 5 days a week. I challenge for those who think it has, to show me where and how. The bottom line, God calls us to serve the poor. Many churches make excuses as to why they can’t do it, not Mosaic. We will follow Christ’s directives and we certainly cherish those who have come along with us to support this ministry. It is far from all we are, but it is a part of what we do in regards to fulfilling the call of Christ. We have 3 staff that starts training on Thursday and Friday, and we open up our doors from 6 PM – 7 AM starting November 1 and concluding on April 1. Please be in prayer that as this program starts that God would be glorified and Mosaic will be blessed for its efforts.

In regards to the above, we could use the following.

For overflow staff and volunteers:
2 twin beds and bedding
A dresser
A good working dryer to help treat clothing and bedding for potential bed bugs
And food donations such as coffee, breakfast items, (note on breakfast items we want presweetened cereals, preferably, in the self serve containers where the cereal is prepackaged in a bowl), creamer, sugar, sugar substitute, coffee cups, bottled water, etc. Any other food item or snacks would also be appreciated. So far Mosaic has spent very little money of its own on items for the homeless program, (estimated $200 or less). We are so grateful to those who have donated in the past. Your support has provided ample opportunities of ministry. We could use more volunteers, especially through the winter, through the day and evening hours. We hope to have the property open as much as possible through the day to provide a place to get out of the weather. Currently myself, and Kim who have been here through the day for the day program, will be working in the evening program which will limit to some extent our day to day operations.

Our staff for the program consists of the following: Myself who will be directing the program and providing coverage, Virginia Aurora who will provide part-time emergency coverage , Kim Pargas ongoing staff coverage, and Lisa Dimmitt, ongoing staff coverage. We also are looking for additional volunteers who can help out and make a difference in the life of a homeless lady.

I also want to remind everyone of the showing of my short film, The Long Walk, Sunday at the Murdock Theater here in Wichita, located at 536 N Broadway St., the High School portion of the program starts at 1 PM and the showing of Kansas Filmmakers, which my film is a part of, start at 3 PM. Students get in free with an id, otherwise admission is $8. I would love to see as many people as possible at the showing of The Long Walk on the Big Screen. Also be in prayer as there is a question and answer session after the showing of the film. I and other film makers are available for this but my prayer is that there are opportunities to share how my faith and specifically Jesus provided the healing I needed.

Then on Halloween Night, October 31, The Fox, 104.5 will be hosting a Classic Rock, Classic Horror movie night in College Hill at The Forum Theater, located on Hillside and Douglas in the Old Baptist Church. There is a suggestion donation of $10.45 of which all proceeds go to benefit Mosaic. The films are Halloween, The Shining, and The Exorcist. We are grateful for this benefit and especially the attention it will bring to Mosaic. Check out the attached bulletin for the remainder of announcements.

Remember, our teaching and discussion time starts at 9:30 on Sunday. We have had good attendance as we discuss questions individuals asked regarding getting to know Jesus. This week we explore the question of did Jesus have siblings? We start a new teaching series for church at 10:30. The series is Discovering Jesus in Contemporary Culture. This week the focus is on Why We Look at The Culture. I look forward to this series and the upcoming events during the Holiday period. I am also looking forward to the first of the year where we will start a new series by going through a book in the Bible.

I hope all of you have a great week, keep us in prayer and if there are things you would like us to pray for let us know. If you are getting this email via another source than email, and would like to get it via email where we can send you the attachments, send us an email at mikefurches@yahoo.com and let us know you would like to subscribe to the newsletter.

Blessings to you, and hope to see you this weekend,

Pastor Mike

Some have asked for the Panel Discussion video of Why They Like Jesus But Not The Church. That video is attached here, if it doesn’t show up or doesn’t show up in its entirety, just click the following link.
http://vimeo.com/30737572




Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:

Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

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Prayer and Worship Service On Sunday

Greetings on the weekly Mosaic Newsletter and update, while a little later than usual this week, it is still coming out despite a lot going on this last week.

As many know we are making progress in moving forward and receiving funding for the church and various individuals, (including me) by offering and providing an emergency overnight shelter for homeless women in Wichita. This program will run from November 1 – April 1. These last few weeks has involved a lot of work in trying to finalize the plans including the hiring of a staff to oversee this facility. The program will have very little impact on the day to day activities of the church. Keep this in prayer, while there are some who have taken issue at times with the homeless program, it is providing some financial help for 4 individuals plus providing a needed area of ministry which Jesus calls us to. There are still some concerns here and the prayers are greatly needed to lift this area of ministry up.

Also be in prayer as we look at expanding our ministry in the area of youth. Buckey has taken leadership in this and we want this part of our church to grow, the adjunct of a youth program will assist as we outreach to others. I met with several individuals this week about their involvement at Mosaic and they were interested in the particular area of youth, we need help here and we want to start reaching out to families with children.

Worship is also something we need to explore. We need a worship leader and musicians who are interested in assisting our church and bringing us to a place of legitimate worship. We need people who are dedicated and willing to promote the concepts of worship, plus stick it out and endure. We want to enter a place where God works each and every week.

A lot is coming up at Mosaic, we have a number of things regarding ministry during the holidays and we want those who believe in the ministry God has called each church to, (working with and ministering to the poor) to realize they are welcome at Mosaic. So many seem to ignore the call Jesus places on his followers to serve. We are more caught up with being served, than we are serving, yet he calls all of us who say we are his followers to serve. He reminds us that the last will be first. That isn’t to say we don’t give ourselves the attention we need, but the attention and growth we go through are to assist us in reaching the world around us. It is only as we are complete in doing the work we are called to do that we will find a place of peace. In finding that place, in doing that work, we need each other.

In closing, don’t forget that tonight, (Saturday) from 5 PM – 10 PM the youth along with various adults will be providing a Parent’s Night Out. During this time there is a suggested donation of $4 an hour and $2 for each additional child. This is a suggested donation and no child will be turned away. There are refreshments, games, drink and more provided during this time. You are invited to drop your children off starting at 5 PM and enjoy the evening. All proceeds from this go to support upcoming youth activities. Donations above the suggested donation are welcome,

Now I hope to see each of you this Sunday as we will be spending the service in Worship and Prayer. We will be having various sessions of prayer for individual needs, our church, and our city, nation, and world. Come prepared to share, worship, and pray.

Teaching time will start at 9:30 when we will be discussing the question: Was Jesus Married and will he be in the future? The discussion last week got a little active and we have been having a good group attending during this time, last week, around 18 attended so come on out during the church teaching and Sunday School time at 9:30.

Now if you are receiving this via some other form than email, you can always email me at mikefurches@yahoo.com to be placed on the church email list where you will receive a copy of the bulletin along with the newsletter.

Until later, God bless,

Pastor Mike

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:

Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

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Mosaic Wichita Facebook Page

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216 S. Market
Wichita KS, 67202
(316) 807-8034

Greetings, I will keep today’s note short because things are so busy. Please make sure to check out the bulletin as there are some events listed. I am on my way this morning to meet with the Mayor’s office and am excited to share with them about the future and ministry of Mosaic.

I also want to remind members of our Vision Team that we have a very important meeting this Saturday at noon. We could also use volunteers this weekend as Kim is out of town so we will need help serving food and welcoming our guests at our Saturday program. We will serve at 1AM and ask our volunteers to be here starting at 11 AM, no later than 11:30

I also want to make mention of several other things that are going on. This next week, we will be hosting a Missional Church Training at the request of a local Baptist church on Tuesday the 13th from 6:30 – 8 PM. There will also be a meeting in Wichita this week regarding sex trafficking in our city. I will be sending out information regarding that meeting but as of yet, don’t have confirmation as to the time or location, but am expecting that meeting to be held on Friday.

There is another bit of good news; I am meeting next week with and at the request of 104.5 Radio who is looking at using our facility on Halloween. This is an opportunity to get word out about Mosaic plus continue to serve the community. They will be requesting a donation for the event which they plan on donating to Mosaic. There will be radio spots which feature Mosaic and possibly a way to open up doors at building additional community connections.

There is no doubt that God continues to work and use this church. The reality is his hand is evident in the things that are taking place. Let’s all be careful though, there are those, some of which call themselves ‘Christian,’ who would have us fail. God is providing Divine Opportunities and appointments for us; we have to be prepared to act on those opportunities. The reality that people are still coming, commitments of faith, and baptism are taking place should cause us to celebrate, certainly the angels in Heaven do if we believe the teachings that come from Luke 15 where we are told the angels rejoice and throw a party over each soul that was lost and is now found.

God is working, what an honor to be a part of it. I kind of feel like Moses in the wilderness, Mosaic can likely relate as we have wondered and moved, but are now seeing God work, seeing opportunities like never before, there is no doubt that God is working, the issue is who wants to be a part of that work and experience the blessings of the Promised Land which God has called us to? I know I do, I hope to have company come along. I am sure there will be.

I also want to remind folks of our meeting on Sunday, the time changes for the start of services, we will enter a devotional prayer time at 9:30 for the church, the Jr. High and HS kids will meet during this time and attend church, and church will start at 10:30. This Sunday we continue the series of Why They Like Jesus But Not The Church, with a focus on Fundamentalism. Next week we complete the series, but we are planning a panel discussion of individuals on Sunday the 25th to talk about their reflections and beliefs regarding ‘The Church.’ This will be an enlightening meeting that will allow us to learn from those we want to reach.

One last note, don’t forget tonight, Friday Sept. 9, is the Drive In – We will be seeing the kids shows, Smurfs, and Cars 2. We will be leaving the church at 7:30 and it is $10 a car load. We will be taking the van and pack in first come first serve into the van, especially for those who don’t have money. I am looking forward to a good time, bring your chairs, snacks, drinks, and be prepared to have a fun time together.

Blessings and God bless you all,

Pastor Mike

PS. Please Remember, if you are getting this at Facebook or another site, you can send an email to mikefurches@yahoo.com to receive your own email copy.

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:

Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

The Keystone Kid

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Mosaic Capital Campaign

Dear Friends and Friends of Mosaic,

We are in a unique position where I am doing something I didn’t know if I would ever do, that is writing a letter asking you to consider helping Mosaic in regards to a capital purchase for a property we will own.

As most of you know Mosaic has been in existence for around 5 years now. In that time Mosaic has moved and is finally in a location where we are seeing unbelievable ministry take place. Some have called us a missional church, maybe we are, but let me ask, is there a church in Scripture that we see that isn’t supposed to be a missional church? We are seeing fruit and even today, am planning another baptism of another individual in the next weeks. We are seeing fruit and making a difference in the lives of people. While we have lost some folks, we have others come on board to replace them who believe in and care about the ministry that God is doing through Mosaic.

Now let me give some specifics. Over the 5 or so years that Mosaic has been in operation we have rented property. We have been reluctant to purchase any property but now with the incorporation of a Vision Team we believe the right situation has happened in the last few weeks that we need to act on. The property we want to purchase is on the block we are currently located on, that property was appraised at approximately $400,000. The previous owners of the property operated a restaurant coffee shop on part of that property and put in approximately $40,000 in renovations to that property. Unfortunately they recently filed bankruptcy and the property is now available to us for between $50,000 - $60,000. There is also condo fees associated with the property that covers much of the cost including maintenance, utilities, and more. We are seeking to obtain funds in the amount of $60,000, and $70,000 for the property.

What we believe would be an appropriate use of the property would be to open up a for profit business where we serve coffee, soups, sandwiches, and crocks (crock pot recipes) along with minimal breakfast items. We would open 6 days a week during breakfast and lunch, and on evenings during downtown and/or arena events. We would keep the prices low and affordable for the walking traffic located near us. Across the street are the SRS offices. One of the mistakes we believe the previous owner made was they offered Starbucks quality at Starbucks prices. It is our desire to offer prices at a much lower price and with not quite the variety. We have been assured from several downtown residents, business people and others that this would be a great adjunct to our area. We would operate the business end of it with volunteers and limited paid staff. Ultimately, once the business grows we would hire homeless individuals and others to work on site. We will also have a section of the property that will have available office space which we would consider renting out for additional income.

The benefit of the current property is there is also room for additional offices and a sanctuary space. Our current space which we rent for $1,300 a month is approximately 6,000 Square feet. The new location, including the restaurant would include approximately 7,500 square feet. We would also have the option to purchase additional floors of the property, located at the Sutton building for approximately $60,000 per floor if we were to decide or grow to the place to offer additional services, of course the purchase of these floors would be optional and dependent on the future status of ownership of those floors.

Obviously, the time is short on the availability of this property. This property will soon go on the market and there are likely other interested buyers. We want to move on the property as soon as possible.

We need your help, can you contribute and assist with this purchase for Mosaic. I can’t say what it would be like to own our own facility, where there is the possibility that we could maintain the type of missional church we are, yet have an option to provide funds for the church to operate. For those things to happen though, we need you to assist us. You could be another church making an investment to the ministry, a business who believes in what we are doing, or an individual who wants to make a difference. We are also willing to consider low interest loans to help with this, but would obviously really joy in the gifts and donations which make this happen.

The time to grasp the opportunity is short, the potential is tremendous. There is no doubt, that when a small church like Mosaic has the opportunity to purchase a property worth close to ½ a million dollars for $60,000 this is a God send. With the current redevelopment of downtown, the new apartments coming in imagine the impact we can have.

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:

Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

The Keystone Kid

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Mosaic Update September 1

Greetings to everyone on this Labor Day Weekend,

Things are going great at Mosaic and I continue to be excited about the totality of the ministry God has called us to. This week, we were blessed in our day program with an abundance of food. This week our homeless, and others who visit us for the next few days are eating shrimp, pork chops, fresh fruit, and the list goes on and on. We are able to do this due to a wonderful donation to our program.

I am also excited this week due to the opportunity on Sunday for my wife and I to visit my daughters church in North Newton to attend our grandsons baby dedication. As a result of that activity, John Stinson will be teaching a very important message on How We Know The Bible Is True. I hope everyone is able to attend, brings some friends and gets some valuable information from John. Last weeks message is available on Vimeo, and I would hope that everyone would go check it out. I posted the message in 2 parts, the first part dealing with how the world sees the church in regards to its treatment of women, and the second part on how they see us in regards to our treatment of homosexuals. I will pick up the series again next week as we look at how Fundamentalism has impacted the world’s view of the church. The links to the messages at the vimeo web site are as follows and I am also posting the videos onto this newsletter:

Part 1 - http://vimeo.com/28306130
Part 2 - http://vimeo.com/28310455

For those that don’t know, Our Vision Team, which meets again, September 10, has challenged us to look at the purchase of a property that is coming available in the very near future. The property, appraised at approximately $400,000 is available for $50,000 - $60,000 I have been busy gathering information regarding that property and I am including a letter attachment that we are sending individuals and locations in trying to raise the money for the property. To think we can be on the same block, have the same ministry, and be in a location that can provide a since of permanence is a blessing. We are praying for God to work on us and the letter will give a lot of information. The Vision Team is unanimous in our effort here and we ask for prayers and help in spreading the word.

In closing, one of the things that has been brought up several times now is the work we are doing and what folks seem to think is the ‘cost’ or ‘attention’ given to the homeless. I want folks to know, Mosaic is doing far more than that, but we are doing ministry, which God has called the church, (not just our church but all churches) to do. Other churches are recognizing that and we are meeting with them. For example, this next week I am hopefully meeting with the pastor at 1st Mennonite Brethren Church, the Director of World Impact Wichita, and I am also doing a training on the missional church for Westside Baptist Church at Mosaic on September 13 at their request. I am also planning a meeting with the pastor of Inovo a church that is close by on how we can replicate ministry. There are a lot of churches where the focus is almost entirely on self, yet, scripturally, while there is disciplining and training taking place, we need to remember, that training responsibility is to train others to carry out and do ministry, or if you will, missional ministry. We also can’t change the reality that we have to surrender and do the things God has called us to, and if we look at Scripture, the call to ministry to the poor is a given, and very clear throughout the Bible. It is why we see people expressing an interest in what we are doing, and a reason we are seeing fruit. Even this week, I am speaking to another individual about his commitment to follow Christ and his desire to be baptized. God is good, and we need to look at the call to win souls, and then disciple them in the salvation, calling, and work of following Jesus. Of course that is done in surrender, not per say works, but being on the forefront to see these things happen is a blessing. Thankfully there are enough volunteers to help with the day program that I am now able to get many more things done than in the past.

As always, the bulletin is attached. Please make note of the Drive-Inn option for next week, we hope we can have as many as possible attend. Bring your lawn chairs, find folks to ride with, and it will cost $10 per car load. It is a great deal and opportunity for us to spend some time together in the community.

Lastly, we now have a way folks can contribute to Mosaic online. If interested in sharing with Mosaic online you can visit the following link and do so. Just designate what your gift is for when you donate, you can designate gifts for ‘general funds,’ ‘capitol campaign,’ or ‘homeless program.’

If the button doesn’t appear, you can give at the following link - https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=G6KQJMMUS72CA

All contributions to Mosaic are tax-deductible. If mailing contributions to Mosaic, you can send them to the following address:
Mosaic Wichita
216 S. Market St.
Wichita, KS 67202

Blessings to you and have a great week.

Mike

The following is the video of part 1 of this last weeks sermon:


The following is part 2 of the same sermon:


To follow Mike's other blogs or gather more information about his ministry you can visit the following:

The Keystone Kid

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