Advent 2024
Unlikeable Christmas

The Christmas story is often filled with images of comfort, joy, and peace. But what if the true meaning of Christmas was more surprising, disruptive, and “unlikely” than we ever imagined?

Explore how God chose unexpected people, places, and circumstances to bring about the world's redemption. From humble shepherds to a small town in Bethlehem, from an unexpected birth to a seemingly insignificant stable, we’ll discover that the real power of Christmas lies not in the perfect but in the surprising and ordinary.

Join us this Advent season for an Unlikeable Christmas that’s more than nice. It’s a story of surprise, disruption, and hope—a story that reminds us that God is at work in the unlikely, even now.

• December 1st — Unlikeable Origins

  • Luke 1:26-38, Luke 3:21-38

• December 8th — Unlikeable Characters

  • Luke 1:5-25

• December 15th — Underwhelming Signs

  • Luke 1:39-45

• December 22nd — Unreliable Witness

  • Luke 2:1-20

• December 24th — Christmas Eve Service @ 11:00pm

  • Luke 1-2

• December 29th — Guest Preacher

  • TBD

New Small Group
What the -ology.

This class introduces Christian theology by exploring the key "ologies" that form Christian belief and practice. Dive into foundational theological topics, each exploring their biblical basis, historical development, and practical application to our lives today. Whether you're a new believer, a seasoned Christian, or someone curious about Christianity, this course will equip you with a robust theological framework and a greater understanding of the Christian worldview.

Join in exploring the rich and vibrant theological tradition that has shaped the Christian faith throughout history.

Year End Update
Annual Church Meeting

On November 17th, Blue River held its annual church meeting to approve budgets, approve board member nominations, cast a vision for the next five years, and, of course, eat food and fellowship together.

Budget 2025

• The overall budget went up for 2025 by $1,354

  • Increases in supplies, insurance, mission giving, and building rental accounts increased expenses.

  • Mission spending will now have a designated 10% of our giving receipts donated to local ministry groups.

Church Council 2025

• No new members were introduced to the Church Council for 2025. A.J. Austin was accepted to begin a 2nd term on the council and continue serving as President.

  • A.J Austin (President)

  • Phil Harman (Vice President)

  • Kim Parker (Secretary)

  • Blake McCoy (Treasurer)

Vision Casting for 2025

• 1 Year Goals

  • Reinforced emphasis on external missional outreach and support

  • 30 people consistently connected to the life of the church

  • 3 active small groups

• 3 Year Goals

  • Vision for a new ministry in Whitley Co.

  • 50 people consistently connected to the life of the church

  • 6 active small groups

• 5 Year Goals

  • Permanent worship space

  • Expanded church leadership

Detailed reports of financials, budgets, and minutes are available upon request.

Student Ministry
Winter Jam

Student Ministry will head to Fort Wayne Coliseum to worship during Christian music’s biggest tour. The 2025 tour will feature performances by Skillet, Anne Wilson, KB, Colton Dixon, Newsong, Micah Tyler, and speaker Zane Black.

Mark your calendars for February 6th @ 5:00. More details to come.

Upcoming Student Ministry Dates

• December 1st @ 11:15

• December 15th @ 11:15

Care Ministry
Prayer Requests

You can submit a request for prayer using the button below. Prayer concerns will be kept confidential if requested.

Sunday Morning
Worship

10:00 am | 301 W Van Buren St. Columbia City, IN 46725

Blue River
Staff and Leadership

Phillip Harman - Pastor

A.J. Austin - President
Kim Parker - Secretary
Blake McCoy - Treasurer