Growing “U”
Discipleship through Learning & Relationship
GROWING “U” is just what it says, an opportunity for you to grow in your Christian faith and help others to grow as well. Three seasonal Tri-mesters, each lasting between 8-10 weeks, will offer a variety of topical classes at various homes scattered across our community on different nights of the week.
We believe the short-term commitment required by a 10 week study will serve our people well – to participate, teach or host! Every 10 weeks, groups are disbanded and the “deck is reshuffled” to begin new groups! This gives you the opportunity to meet more people, take different classes or take a needed season “off” if your schedule doesn’t permit. You can participate one semester, two or all three. If you’re really hungry to grow you can take many classes in each semester!
Sunday Mornings
Faith Connections (Sunday mornings at 9:15 am.)
Teacher: Al Schult
Where: Art Room at Duncan
Childcare Provided: Thank you for providing your own care
This course offers an in-depth look at scripture using the Wesleyan Quarterly.
Grab a cup of coffee & snack from 9:15 – 9:30 am. Class runs from 9:30 – 10:15 am.
Sunday Night Sunday School
(6:00 – 7:30 pm.at the Church Ministry Center)
No class January 29, February 5, March 25 & April 1 & 8
January 29: Baptism Beach Party
February 5: Super Bowl
March 25: Cinema Night
April 1 & 8: Easter Holiday
ORCN Presents… Sunday Night Cinema
When: March 25 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Feature Film: Seven Days in Utopia
Seven Days in Utopia, based on the best-selling inspirational book Golf’s Sacred Journey, by David Cook, shows how a person’s personal journey can be given a jolt in the unlikeliest of places–even a lowly golf course. Seven Days in Utopia is an old-fashioned family film in the best sense, like Touched by an Angel meets It’s a Wonderful Life.
Love & Respect (by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs)
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. (finishing up Jan. 8, 15, & 22)
Teacher: Pastor Steve Barkey
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Dr. Emerson Eggerichs’ book, Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires, the Respect He Desperately Needs, is based on the biblical passage from Ephesians 5:33 (But every husband must love his wife as he loves himself, and wives should respect their husbands). His premise is that communication between a husband and wife is often frustrated because of the vastly different ways in which men and women perceive love. Women are wired to need unconditional love and men need to feel unconditionally respected. Revitalize the love in your marriage!
The Bait of Satan: Living Free From the Deadly Trap of Offense (by John Bevere)
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. Starting February 12 and ending April 29 (9 week class)
Teacher: TBA
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Escape the enemy’s deadly trap! The Bait of Satan exposes one of the most deceptive snares Satan uses to get believers out of the will of God-offense. Most people who are ensnared by the bait of Satan don’t even realize it. You will encounter offense, and it’s up to you how it will affect your relationship with God. Your response will determine your future. If offense is handled correctly, you will become stronger rather than bitter. In this tenth anniversary edition of his best-selling book, John Bevere shows us how to stay free from offense and escape the victim mentality.
The Case for a Creator (by Lee Strobel)
When: three Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. (January 8, 15, & 22)
Teacher: Juel Bjerke
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Science had made the idea of a Creator irrelevant—or so Strobel thought. But today science is pointing in a different direction. In recent years, a diverse and impressive body of research has increasingly supported the conclusion that the universe was intelligently designed. At the same time, Darwinism has faltered in the face of concrete facts and hard reason. Has science discovered God? At the very least, it’s giving faith an immense boost as new findings emerge about the incredible complexity of our universe. Join Strobe and Bjerke as they reexamine the theories that once led many away from God. Through their compelling account, you’ll encounter the mind-stretching discoveries from cosmology, cellular biology, DNA research, astronomy, physics, and human consciousness that present astonishing evidence in The Case for a Creator.
The Case for Faith (by Lee Strobel)
When: three Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. (February 12, 19, 26)
Teacher: Jerry Barkey
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
In The Case for Faith, Strobel turns his skills to the most persistent emotional objections to belief—the eight ‘heart barriers’ to faith. This Gold Medallion-winning book is for those who may be feeling attracted to Jesus but who are faced with difficult questions standing squarely in their path. For Christians, it will deepen their convictions and give them fresh confidence in discussing Christianity with even their most skeptical friends. ‘Everyone—seekers, doubters, fervent believers—benefits when Lee Strobel hits the road in search of answers, as he does again in The Case for Faith.
The Case for Easter (by Lee Strobel)
When: three Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. (March 4, 11, 18)
Teacher: Mark & Laurie Pickell
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Did Jesus of Nazareth really rise from the dead? Of the many world religions, only one claims that its founder returned from the grave. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the very cornerstone of Christianity. But a dead man coming back to life? In our sophisticated age, when myth has given way to science, who can take such a claim seriously? Some argue that Jesus never died on the cross. Conflicting accounts make the empty tomb seem suspect. And post-crucifixion sightings of Jesus have been explained in psychological terms. How credible is the evidence for-and against-the resurrection? Focusing his award-winning skills as a legal journalist on history’s most compelling enigma, Lee Strobel retraces the startling findings that led him from atheism to belief.
The Case for Intelligent Design (by Lee Strobel)
When: three Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. (April 15, 22, 29)
Teacher: Mark & Laurie Pickell
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
While science generally contends that life and the universe are the products of undirected natural processes, new evidence from biology, chemistry, paleontology, physics, and astronomy points clearly to a world designed for a purpose. At the heart of this debate are three remarkable films that have helped define the major arguments for the existence of intelligent design behind all of life and the cosmos.
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Facilitator: Wendy Stemmerich
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Hey Orchard Ridge! We are pleased to announce an Easter presentation of “Near the Cross” a highly acclaimed musical cantata by Dennis & Nan Allen. No experience necessary. We want people ages 10 and up. Each rehearsal there will be a devotional as well as music practice. This is more than performance. It’s a way for you to truly worship this Easter, AND lead our people in worship “Near The Cross” on Easter Sunday morning, April 8, 2012. First rehearsal is Sunday, January 8, 2012.
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Facilitator: Randy & Shannon Spach
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Hey teens! Take this time to perfect your talents and abilities. Please join us Sunday evening at the ORCN Ministry Center; you may be surprised at what amazing things happen when you and the Lord show up! We’ll also share in weekly devotions.
Children’s Bible Quizzing (Ages 1st- 6th Grade)
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Teacher: Sharon Barkey
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Children’s Bible Quizzing is studying the biblical book of Matthew this year. Kids get into Matthew and learn what the Bible says. Activities are specifically geared to help children immerse themselves in the ancient world, learning what life was like for Jesus and His followers. Each week children build their spiritual vocabulary as they incorporate FAITH WORDS into their everyday lives. Characteristics of God are revealed in each weekly “Dig Site” to help children learn who God is, what He is like, and how He interacts with people.
Quiz Meets: January 28, March 3, April 14, April 21
Quizzing Review Pizza Party: January 27, March 2, April 13, April 20
Preschool Bible Study (Ages 4-5)
Upon entering kindergarten, parents will have the option of including their children in the children’s quizzing program or enrolling them in the nursery. As the need arises, a separate preschool program will be implemented. Any questions should be directed to Sharon Barky (586) 381-1198 or Kelli McCloud (586) 246-1181.
Nursery
When: Sundays, 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Facilitator: Alyssa Staten
Where: Ministry Center
Special care is provided for our infants all the way to 2 years old.
Thursday Night Alive
Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man’s Soul (John Eldredge)
When: Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (14 week class ending March 29)
Facilitator: Dave Zauner
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
God designed men to be dangerous, says John Eldredge. Simply look at the dreams and desires written in the heart of every boy: To be a hero, to be a warrior, to live a life of adventure and risk. Sadly, most men abandon those dreams and desires-aided by a Christianity that feels like nothing more than pressure to be a “nice guy.” It is no wonder that many men avoid church, and those who go are often passive and bored to death. In this provocative book, Eldredge encourages men to be what God designed them to be: dangerous, passionate, alive, and free.
Covenant: God’s Enduring Promises(Kay Arthur)
When: Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (14 week class ending March 29)
Facilitator: Julie Zauner
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Kay Arthur provides a personal study experience. Covenant explores God’s initiatives with humanity by studying His covenants throughout history. Kay shows that the idea of covenant — God’s enduring promise — is key to understanding our relationship to God. Kay will guide us in exploring the benefits and responsibilities of covenant as well as the character of the covenant initiator. Learn about the remarkable ways the old covenant points to the promises of the new covenant.
When: Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Facilitator: Pastor Steve, Duane Staten
Where: His Rock Café
This group is for teens (grades 7-12).
Worship, study of scripture, & strengthening friendships in the name of Christ are the driving force of this Thursday night fellowship.
Children’s Junior “U” (Ages 1st – 6th Grade)
When: Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:30 pm.
Facilitator: Sharon Barkey
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Junior “U” is a high energy bible based mid-week ministry created for your kids (kindergarten thru sixth grade) through creative hands-on approaches. Your children will be engaged each week in a bible teaching and activity in an environment with caring mentors and friends.
Preschool Bible Study (Ages 4 – 5)
Upon entering kindergarten, parents will have the option of including their children in the children’s quizzing program or enrolling them in the nursery. As the need arises, a separate preschool program will be implemented. Any questions should be directed to Sharon Barkey (586) 381-1198 or Kelli McCloud (586) 246-1181.
Nursery
When: Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Facilitator: Alyssa Staten
Where: Ministry Center
Special care is provided for our infants all the way to 2 years old.
Small Groups
(Various Times on Wednesday)
When: Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 a.m.
Facilitator: Dave Zauner
Where: National Coney Island (45221 Utica Park Blvd, Utica)
Childcare Provided: Thank you for providing your own childcare
While enjoying a breakfast meal together, this men’s group discusses a weekly Bible verse & applies it to their lives. It is a great way to fellowship with other Christian men. What a way to start off the day!
When: Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (we do not meet the first Wednesday’s of every month)
Facilitator: Pastor Steve Barkey
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Childcare Provided: Thank you for providing your own childcare
We would love for you to join us for a time of prayer. Bring your Bibles. If you can’t make the prayer meeting send your request to Robin
If you’ve never experienced the life changing power of prayer, we encourage you to attend.
Remember: “When we work, we work. When we pray, God works!”
Death, Burial, & Resurrection of Jesus (as recorded in the Book of Luke)
When: WEDNESDAYS, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (ending March 28)
Facilitator: Pastor Steve Barkey & Ryan Vetor
Where: ORCN Ministry Center
Childcare Provided
Join Pastor Barkey, Ryan Vetor & friends for a great night of prayer, study & fellowship as they dive into the the death, burial, & resurrection of Jesus. The resource? The Bible of course! Online study guides can be found at http://www.jesuswalk.com/luke/. A light snack is served.
Ministry Opportunities
Abigayle Ministries
When: periodic as needs arise
Facilitator: Trisha Kott
Where: Abigayle Ministry Center (12313 19 Mile Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313)
Childcare Provided: Thank you for providing your own childcare
This service group volunteers at a ministry for homeless, pregnant women and new mothers needing transitional assistance. Abigayle is always in need of women to drive the women to appointments, usually in the local area. Just arrive at the house (the girls are usually always ready), drop them off, and then return to pick them up when their appointments are complete. There is a need for volunteers to spend the night during the week & one weekend per month. They have a very comfortable volunteer bedroom suite. This ministry requires an application process and training. We are also looking for women or a female from our teen group to ride in the van along with Jerry Barkey to pick women up from Abigayle’s on Sunday mornings who want to come to church. No training required. You would have to be at church by 9:15 a.m. If anyone is interested, or you have questions please contact Jerry Barkey at (586) 489-3954.
Hope Center
When: The first Wednesday of every month 9:00 – noon
Facilitator: Pastor Barkey
Where: 33222 Groesbeck Hwy., Fraser MI 48026
Childcare Provided: Thank you for providing your own childcare
Please help by donating your time to the Hope Center Macomb. Hope Center is a food pantry for low income families in the Macomb county area. The services are also open to our ORCN church members who may not live in Macomb county but attend our church. If you would like to volunteer your time, you need to attend an orientation at Hope Center before you can help out. You may complete your registration online at by clicking on the link provided http://www.hopecentermacomb.org/get-involved-1. If you’ve completed the online application and have attended an orientation session, you may schedule your volunteer time online. If you’d like to speak to someone about our volunteer opportunities then please call Lisa at 586-294-HOPE. If you would like to be a volunteer with the Orchard Ridge staff: they volunteer the first Wednesday of every month from 9 am – noon. If you are unable to volunteer your time, you can make monetary donations to help support their needs. If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Steve Barkey at (586) 381-0070.
East Michigan CCDA
What does CCDA stand for? Good Question. The East Michigan Christian Community Development Association was founded and is operated by Pastor Mark Judkins, who is the brother of Kim Bianchini. Their motto is “Unlocking neighborhood access to opportunity”. They assist with job search, finding housing, career development, food, mentoring, business coaching etc. They try to be a “Homeless Prevention Ministry” by helping people function at home and in society.
Current Needs:
- Tutors for their after school program starting in October from 3:00 – 5:00 P.M. If you can read and add, you can help.
- Drivers
- Seniors Program – Starts in October – They need volunteers to sew, play checkers, prepare meals in the ministry kitchen and serve, etc.
- Appliances, Clothing, Furniture, Toys etc. CCDA called it an “Asset Reallocation” program.
- To learn more, follow Pastor Mark Judkins of Rochester, MI on Facebook.






