Summer camps were unforgettable!
In June, 65 middle schoolers took Wood Lake Camp by storm for Five Oaks Camp Getaway, and in July, 70 high schoolers did the same. Over 27 adult leaders and 12 student leaders invested a week of their time to keep the campers alive, thriving, growing in their faith, and running hard. Middle schoolers learned and grew from the teaching of our own Ariel Koning, who taught about how we see Jesus foretold in the Old Testament. High schoolers learned from Woodlake Camp speaker Caden Kroeker, who preached from John on the importance of knowing Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. Here’s a fun fact about summer camp: One week of camp has more contact hours than a year of student ministry does. We praise God for all the ways he showed up in the lives of students this summer!
Register now for outdoor baptisms!
Our outdoor baptism celebration is right around the corner. We love to celebrate with God's people when they take the important step of baptism, and doing so on the island at the University of Northwestern, in all of God's summertime beauty, is even better. Join us on August 16 at 10 am for baptisms in Lake Johanna, followed by refreshments, fellowship, and time to swim. Please register all family members who will attend here. Please note: Our outdoor baptism service is our only service August 15+16!
Last call for our school supplies drives!
You can help kids in our community and in Haiti to start the new school year well by providing them with the supplies they need. Throughout the month of July, we’re hosting an online drive in partnership with Hope for the Brave and GVCM. Hope for the Brave is collecting backpacks to distribute to kids in need in St. Paul. GVCM is collecting funds to provide 200 students with essential school supplies, shoes, and uniforms made by women in Haiti. To participate in the Hope for the Brave Backpack Drive, click here. To donate to the GVCM Supply Drive, click here. The final day to donate is July 31.
Students: See you on Wednesday night for water fun
We can’t wait to see you again on August 5 at 6:30 pm for another great night to connect with friends, have fun, and make the most of summer. Middle and high schoolers, invite your friends, and come ready to get wet! during our soapy, slippery, and hilarious game of water crab soccer. Questions? Email Cody Baader.
Last call for the Global Leadership Summit!
The best leaders never stop growing. That’s why we’re hosting the Global Leadership Summit on August 6–7. Over two inspiring days, you’ll gain practical leadership tools and a fresh perspective from world-class speakers, including Craig Groeschel, Priscilla Shirer, Arthur C. Brooks, Jim Collins, and Candace Cameron Bure. The Summit is also a great opportunity to invite a friend, coworker, or neighbor who may never attend church but wants to grow as a leader.. Invest in your leadership and the people you influence every day. Register here. Questions? Email Emily Brewer.
Growing kids starts with great leaders
Every weekend is a chance to shape a child’s faith, and sometimes that means navigating busy classrooms and big personalities. Whether you’re already serving in Five Oaks Kids or considering joining the team, this training will give you practical tools. Join us Saturday, August 22, 12–1:30 pm, for our Kids Volunteer Training & Appreciation Event, featuring a professional educator sharing effective classroom management strategies. Details and registration are here.
Be the first friendly face they meet
Starting life in a new country can be exciting—and overwhelming. This fall, you can help international students feel welcomed and cared for through the Hospitality Center at the University of Minnesota and Concordia University. Serve by helping at the Welcome Picnic, hosting a student who is waiting for housing (1–7 days), or providing an airport pickup. Simple acts of hospitality make the biggest difference. Questions? Email Dave Baar.
Community News
Nursing job opportunity in Woodbury
New Life Family Services (a long-time Impact partner) recently opened a First Care Center in Woodbury, a transformation of the former Woodbury Options for Women center. They are currently looking to hire a full-time nurse to support the critical services they provide to women and families in our community. Additional information can be found here: https://nlfs.org/get-involved/careers/. If you’d like us to send you the information via email, email Dave Baar, impact@fiveoakschurch.org.