Dear Friends,
Often we think of the New Year as getting a fresh start. The New Year presents an opportunity to put the past behind us and to forge forward into a time with new promise and possibilities. Perhaps the New Year is the ultimate “positive thinking” device. It allows us to start over, make new resolutions, and hope beyond hope that this year will be different – that this year we can actually keep the resolutions that we make.
If you have made, are intending to make, or are even considering making New Year resolutions, let me extend to you my heartiest congratulations! For many, there is the sense that they’ve made resolutions before, they haven’t worked, so why bother even trying. Certainly we can understand their perspective. However, to make resolutions, or to be thinking of making resolutions is to say, “I’m going to try anyway, despite my past experiences. I am not going to give up on myself. I want to change. I can change.”
What kind of resolutions have you made? A while back I came across an article entitled, Things We Can Learn from a Dog. The author lists a bunch of things dogs do that help them enjoy life. Maybe in this list are hidden some good resolutions to consider:
· When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
· Be loyal.
· Allow the experiences of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
· Take naps and stretch before rising.
· Run, romp, and play daily.
· Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you’ve had enough.
· Never pretend to be something you’re not.
· If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
· When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.
· Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
· On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
· On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.
· When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
· No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout . . . run right back
and make friends.
· Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Resolutions are about change. Resolutions are about evaluating our lives, seeing some things that don’t quite fit us anymore, and desiring to make adjustments that will help us enjoy life better. Resolutions fit many areas of our lives including our physical well-being, our emotional well-being, and certainly our spiritual well-being. Of this I am certain – all of us can grow spiritually no matter how long we have been a Christian. And often it requires of us some change in our attitudes, our behavior and our spiritual practices such as prayer, worship, and other spiritual disciplines.
Where is it you want to change in 2010? What is it you want to do so that you enjoy your life more, enjoy your family more, and enjoy God more? Whatever you decide, know that God is with you. And should you falter in keeping your resolutions, don’t give up. Rather, start over and give yourself another chance.
Happy New Year,
Pastor Jim
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
American Baptist History
The following information was presented in an article by our Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin, Dr. Arlo Reichter. I believe he got it from the Dakota Baptist. This history tells us a bit more about who we are as American Baptists, and how God has led us for the past 300 years.
· American Baptists were the most important influence in attaching the Bill of Rights to the
Constitution.
· More than any other denomination, we pioneered Black Education in the South after the Civil War.
· By 1911, we had helped establish 1,100 bilingual churches, most of which eventually established
their own ethnic denomination.
· We were the first denomination to begin doing Campus Ministry.
· It was one of our churches that began the first Vacation Bible School.
· We were the first denomination to elect a woman president, Helen Barrett Montgomery.
· Prior to 1920, over 50% of the Protestant churches west of the Mississippi were constructed with
some borrowed funds from our Home Mission Society.
· At the time of the Second World War, we stood with Japanese Americans as they were put in
detention camps, when that was not a popular thing to do.
· ABC pastor Walter Rauschenbusch was called “The Father of the Social Gospel” because he
was a prime mover in Child Labor legislation.
· Our denomination has been present at the beginning of each phase of the Ecumenical
movement and continues to be supportive.
· Ours is the most effective Mission Program on earth! More people are won to Christ per
dollar spent, per missionary sent, than any other group doing mission work anywhere. That is
because we pioneered indigenous leadership everywhere.
· We are the only major denomination where there is no majority of any ethnic or racial group.
We have quite a history as American Baptists. We have something to be proud of, and something to build upon, as we share the Good News of Jesus.
(By the way, be sure to check out the latest news of our American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin. The latest updates are posted each month on the hallway bulletin board under the “Church Family” section.)
· American Baptists were the most important influence in attaching the Bill of Rights to the
Constitution.
· More than any other denomination, we pioneered Black Education in the South after the Civil War.
· By 1911, we had helped establish 1,100 bilingual churches, most of which eventually established
their own ethnic denomination.
· We were the first denomination to begin doing Campus Ministry.
· It was one of our churches that began the first Vacation Bible School.
· We were the first denomination to elect a woman president, Helen Barrett Montgomery.
· Prior to 1920, over 50% of the Protestant churches west of the Mississippi were constructed with
some borrowed funds from our Home Mission Society.
· At the time of the Second World War, we stood with Japanese Americans as they were put in
detention camps, when that was not a popular thing to do.
· ABC pastor Walter Rauschenbusch was called “The Father of the Social Gospel” because he
was a prime mover in Child Labor legislation.
· Our denomination has been present at the beginning of each phase of the Ecumenical
movement and continues to be supportive.
· Ours is the most effective Mission Program on earth! More people are won to Christ per
dollar spent, per missionary sent, than any other group doing mission work anywhere. That is
because we pioneered indigenous leadership everywhere.
· We are the only major denomination where there is no majority of any ethnic or racial group.
We have quite a history as American Baptists. We have something to be proud of, and something to build upon, as we share the Good News of Jesus.
(By the way, be sure to check out the latest news of our American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin. The latest updates are posted each month on the hallway bulletin board under the “Church Family” section.)
Why Go To Church?
A church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. “I’ve gone for 30 years now,” he wrote, “and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can’t remember a single one of them. So I think I’m wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all.”
This started a real controversy in the “Letters to the Editor” column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:
“I’ve been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this… they all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!”
When you are DOWN to nothing, God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment. – submitted by Jodi Isom
This started a real controversy in the “Letters to the Editor” column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher:
“I’ve been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this… they all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!”
When you are DOWN to nothing, God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment. – submitted by Jodi Isom
Annual Reports
Many of you lead ministries, and we are truly grateful for your service to and through our church. Each year our church prints an Annual Report that includes written reports from those who lead ministries. If you lead a ministry in our church, please write your annual report and submit it to either Lori Bowers or Pastor Jim no later than January 10, 2010. Thank you!
Ministry Council
We are grateful to our Ministry Council and their service. Barb Moravec and Becky Luebker have concluded their service. New to the Ministry Council in 2010 are Cathy Strohmeyer (a one-year term), and Becky Zoglman (a three-year term.) Cathy and Becky join current members: Trudi Woods, Julie Delikowski, Tom Romnek, Pat Lewis, and Mike Kesselhon ( who was elected to a new three-year term.) Please keep our Ministry Council in your prayers.
Donations Needed
The following is a list of items that we need donated to our church. If you can donate any of the items, please drop them off on the table in the church kitchen. Thank you.
· Bottled juice for fellowship hour
· 55 gallon garbage bags
· Tall kitchen bags
· Dawn dish soap
· BarKeeps Friend (sink cleaner)
· Boxes of Kleenex
· A wall-mounted Pencil Sharpener
· Bottled juice for fellowship hour
· 55 gallon garbage bags
· Tall kitchen bags
· Dawn dish soap
· BarKeeps Friend (sink cleaner)
· Boxes of Kleenex
· A wall-mounted Pencil Sharpener
Wisdom (submitted by Barb Moravec)
· When you get to your wit’s end, you’ll find God lives there.
· People are funny; they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the
church.
· Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever.
· Quite griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn’t belong.
· If a church wants a better minister, it only needs to pray for the one it has.
· Peace starts with a smile.
· People are funny; they want the front of the bus, the middle of the road, and the back of the
church.
· Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the front door forever.
· Quite griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn’t belong.
· If a church wants a better minister, it only needs to pray for the one it has.
· Peace starts with a smile.
Teenage Depression (from the Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley)
Teenage depression is one of the most prevalent emotional disturbances among high school students. Teenage depression is more than a day or two of the “blues.” It is a continuing, overwhelming feeling of sadness and helplessness that interferes with the teenager’s ability to carry on normally. Teenage depression is extremely painful and debilitating, and because it often is accompanied by thoughts of suicide, it can also be fatal. Symptoms to look for in teenage depression that may indicate a problem that needs to be addressed:
· Change in sleep patterns: too much sleep or difficulty sleeping
· Changes in appetite: noticeable weight loss or gain
· Inability to concentrate
· Feelings of excessive guilt
· Feelings of hopelessness, sadness
· Withdrawal from friends and family
· Changes in activity: slowed movement, monotonous speech or unexplained agitation,
· Change in sleep patterns: too much sleep or difficulty sleeping
· Changes in appetite: noticeable weight loss or gain
· Inability to concentrate
· Feelings of excessive guilt
· Feelings of hopelessness, sadness
· Withdrawal from friends and family
· Changes in activity: slowed movement, monotonous speech or unexplained agitation,
fidgeting, pacing, and wringing hands
· Loss of energy
· A sudden drop in school performance
· Outbursts of shouting or complaining, unexplained irritability
· Neglect of personal appearance
· Crying
· Aggression: refusal to cooperate, antisocial behavior
· Use of alcohol or drugs
· Complaints of aching arms, legs or stomach when no cause can be found
· Perception of being ugly when not
· Loss of interest in activities
· Feeling that life isn’t worth living: recurring thoughts of death or suicide
· Risk taking behaviors
If a teenager is experiencing a number of these symptoms, call The Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley (886-9319).
· Loss of energy
· A sudden drop in school performance
· Outbursts of shouting or complaining, unexplained irritability
· Neglect of personal appearance
· Crying
· Aggression: refusal to cooperate, antisocial behavior
· Use of alcohol or drugs
· Complaints of aching arms, legs or stomach when no cause can be found
· Perception of being ugly when not
· Loss of interest in activities
· Feeling that life isn’t worth living: recurring thoughts of death or suicide
· Risk taking behaviors
If a teenager is experiencing a number of these symptoms, call The Samaritan Counseling Center of the Fox Valley (886-9319).
Newsletter Publisher Needed
We are grateful to Kris Hoehne for publishing our Baptist Light Newsletter these past months. (Thanks, Kris!) Kris is moving and so we are looking for someone to take over the responsibilities of publishing the newsletter beginning with the February issue. Please contact Pastor Jim if interested, and for more details.
Annual Meeting/Potluck
The Annual Meeting of Whiting Community Baptist Church will be held on Sunday, January 31st, 2010, following our Sunday morning worship service. It will include a Potluck lunch – please bring food to share.
Baptist Light Articles
Anyone wishing to submit an article to the Baptist Light may contact Pastor Jim at 722-4312. You may call him with your details, submit jump drives, send email or present printed material. Please have articles to him by the 20th of each month to allow time to print by the 1st of each month.
January Greeters
3 Donna Mentink
10 Donna Mentink
17 Cathy Strohmeyer
24 Kathy Najdowski
31 Cathy Strohmeyer
10 Donna Mentink
17 Cathy Strohmeyer
24 Kathy Najdowski
31 Cathy Strohmeyer
January Birthdays
9 Troy Fisher
12 Kristin Bachorz
14 Anna Fesko
14 Krystal Rose
14 Perry Smith
18 Nancy Biettler
19 Doug Johnson
19 Holly Robinson
22 Kordell Grade
23 Kortney Fisher
26 Christina Hudson
27 Kaley Hill
28 Tina Bachorz
12 Kristin Bachorz
14 Anna Fesko
14 Krystal Rose
14 Perry Smith
18 Nancy Biettler
19 Doug Johnson
19 Holly Robinson
22 Kordell Grade
23 Kortney Fisher
26 Christina Hudson
27 Kaley Hill
28 Tina Bachorz
Monday, November 30, 2009
December Newsletter
Dear Friends,
John Killinger, in his book, Christmas Spoken Here, writes,
"One day I was staring through the window of a beautiful little Christmas shop. It was packed with Christmas items, even though Christmas was still six months away. There were exquisite crèches from Italy, Germany and Norway. There were fuzzy-fazed elves and jolly old Santa Clauses, sleighs and reindeer of every size and description, bells and trees, and music boxes. There were nutcrackers and candles and electric lights, angels and wise men and little drummer boys, stars and snowmen and gingerbread cutouts. The little shop was fairly bursting with Christmas, and a loudspeaker broadcast a medley of Yuletide tunes. It was infectious, even in the summertime. And down in the corner of the front door, where no one could miss it, was the neatest touch of all. It was a small sign that said, “Christmas Spoken Here".”
The little shop Killinger describes sounds a lot like the Christmas store in Frankenmuth, Michigan, only Frankenmuth is a much larger store. Denise and I have been to Frankenmuth twice, and on both occasions have been impressed with the Christmas spirit of the shops and the people, no matter what time of year it is. (We visited in Fall and in Summer.) The huge Christmas store in Frankenmuth, may or may not have a sign, but it certainly has the spirit of “Christmas Spoken Here.”
I don’t know who said it, but a wise person suggested that “Christmas Spoken Here” is an appropriate slogan for the church. Think about that for a moment – Christmas brings kindness and gentleness. It creates good will and courtesy. It promotes peace and joy. These are attributes that seem to be prevalent during the Christmas season. Yet they are attitudes that Christ, “the reason for the season”, creates in us as those who follow Him. It started with the words of the angel, “Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” And each Christmas we share that joy with one another, even with people we don’t know. We give more freely, love more deeply, and care more sincerely than at any other time of the year.
Of course, Jesus did not mean to limit our Christmas spirit just to Christmas. Which gets us back to the slogan, “Christmas spoken here.” Such language is not reserved just for Christmas. Rather, like the small Christmas shop Killinger wrote about, and like the huge Christmas store in Frankenmuth, our Christmas speaking is to be year round. After all, the miracle of Christmas is the basis of all we do.
One person wrote: “The church ought always to speak Christmas. We ought always to be reminded of the Word God has spoken: the intelligible, important, and loving Word of His concern for us.” And then we need to speak it to others – throughout the year. Christmas is spoken here at WCBC. May it always be spoken clearly and lovingly in all we say and do.
Peace,
Pastor Jim
John Killinger, in his book, Christmas Spoken Here, writes,
"One day I was staring through the window of a beautiful little Christmas shop. It was packed with Christmas items, even though Christmas was still six months away. There were exquisite crèches from Italy, Germany and Norway. There were fuzzy-fazed elves and jolly old Santa Clauses, sleighs and reindeer of every size and description, bells and trees, and music boxes. There were nutcrackers and candles and electric lights, angels and wise men and little drummer boys, stars and snowmen and gingerbread cutouts. The little shop was fairly bursting with Christmas, and a loudspeaker broadcast a medley of Yuletide tunes. It was infectious, even in the summertime. And down in the corner of the front door, where no one could miss it, was the neatest touch of all. It was a small sign that said, “Christmas Spoken Here".”
The little shop Killinger describes sounds a lot like the Christmas store in Frankenmuth, Michigan, only Frankenmuth is a much larger store. Denise and I have been to Frankenmuth twice, and on both occasions have been impressed with the Christmas spirit of the shops and the people, no matter what time of year it is. (We visited in Fall and in Summer.) The huge Christmas store in Frankenmuth, may or may not have a sign, but it certainly has the spirit of “Christmas Spoken Here.”
I don’t know who said it, but a wise person suggested that “Christmas Spoken Here” is an appropriate slogan for the church. Think about that for a moment – Christmas brings kindness and gentleness. It creates good will and courtesy. It promotes peace and joy. These are attributes that seem to be prevalent during the Christmas season. Yet they are attitudes that Christ, “the reason for the season”, creates in us as those who follow Him. It started with the words of the angel, “Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” And each Christmas we share that joy with one another, even with people we don’t know. We give more freely, love more deeply, and care more sincerely than at any other time of the year.
Of course, Jesus did not mean to limit our Christmas spirit just to Christmas. Which gets us back to the slogan, “Christmas spoken here.” Such language is not reserved just for Christmas. Rather, like the small Christmas shop Killinger wrote about, and like the huge Christmas store in Frankenmuth, our Christmas speaking is to be year round. After all, the miracle of Christmas is the basis of all we do.
One person wrote: “The church ought always to speak Christmas. We ought always to be reminded of the Word God has spoken: the intelligible, important, and loving Word of His concern for us.” And then we need to speak it to others – throughout the year. Christmas is spoken here at WCBC. May it always be spoken clearly and lovingly in all we say and do.
Peace,
Pastor Jim
Open House
Denise and I would be honored by your presence at our Annual Open House on Sunday, December 20th, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. There will be many delicious foods and beverages, as well as great conversation between church friends. We look forward to seeing you! -- Pastor Jim
Newsletter Continued
When you get to the end of the column where you are reading this newsletter on our website, you are not yet finished. On the right hand side of the blog is a column that has a listing of the rest of the articles. It lists the articles by posting date. That means that the rest of the articles for December may be listed with a November date because they were posted at the end of the month. There is still much to read – so don’t forget to check the rest of the newsletter out.
Miracle On Main Street
An exciting Christmas musical titled, Miracle on Main Street, will be presented to our congregation by the children and youth of our church. It will be presented twice: on Saturday, December 19th, at 4:00 pm, and on Sunday, December 20th, at our 10:15 am worship service. So invite your neighbors, friends and relatives to a Christmas program you won’t want to miss!
Miracle On Main Street Rehearsals
In addition to the rehearsals taking place during Sunday School and Children’s Church, there will be a rehearsal following worship on Sunday, December 13th. Also, rehearsals will be held on Saturday, December 12th, from 9:00 am to Noon, and on Saturday, December 19th, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Finding Spirit In The Season
(from Mayo Clinic Health Solutions)
To increase your holiday happiness this Christmas, try one or more of these ideas:
· Take part in a community sing-along.
· Bake and decorate cookies with your friends or family.
· Take a few moments for personal reflection, meditation or prayer.
· Revive a favorite spiritual tradition.
· Donate blood in honor of the armed forces or disaster victims.
· Take turns sharing a favorite holiday memory with co-workers.
· Donate to a charity in memory of a loved one.
· Ask your family or work group to help you sponsor a family in need or volunteer for an organization.
· Ask loved ones to share a favorite story, poem, reading or song – or create one of their own.
To increase your holiday happiness this Christmas, try one or more of these ideas:
· Take part in a community sing-along.
· Bake and decorate cookies with your friends or family.
· Take a few moments for personal reflection, meditation or prayer.
· Revive a favorite spiritual tradition.
· Donate blood in honor of the armed forces or disaster victims.
· Take turns sharing a favorite holiday memory with co-workers.
· Donate to a charity in memory of a loved one.
· Ask your family or work group to help you sponsor a family in need or volunteer for an organization.
· Ask loved ones to share a favorite story, poem, reading or song – or create one of their own.
Alaska Children's Services
Alaska Children’s Services started in 1890 as the Jesse Lee Home in Unalaska out on the Aleutian Islands. It is now located in Anchorage.
In 1970 Jesse Lee Home, Anchorage Children’s Service, and Lutheran Youth Center were merged to form the Alaska Children’s Services.
Referrals come from the Department of Juvenile Justice, Health and Social Services, schools, physicians, and families. A child must have a diagnosis that qualifies them as severely emotionally disturbed.
Services that are provided include residential psychiatric treatment, home-based care, and therapeutic foster care. Residential treatment stays are 3-18 months, then transition to therapeutic foster care where clients receive home based services, case management, group and individual therapy, and skill development.
Typical kids: average age 14, sexually and/or physically abused, impacted by drugs and alcohol, and has been in at least five other out-of-home placements.
Alaska Children’s Services is one of the mission agencies supported by the American Baptist Churches, and is supported by our church this year through our mission giving.
In 1970 Jesse Lee Home, Anchorage Children’s Service, and Lutheran Youth Center were merged to form the Alaska Children’s Services.
Referrals come from the Department of Juvenile Justice, Health and Social Services, schools, physicians, and families. A child must have a diagnosis that qualifies them as severely emotionally disturbed.
Services that are provided include residential psychiatric treatment, home-based care, and therapeutic foster care. Residential treatment stays are 3-18 months, then transition to therapeutic foster care where clients receive home based services, case management, group and individual therapy, and skill development.
Typical kids: average age 14, sexually and/or physically abused, impacted by drugs and alcohol, and has been in at least five other out-of-home placements.
Alaska Children’s Services is one of the mission agencies supported by the American Baptist Churches, and is supported by our church this year through our mission giving.
Ten Commandments for Christmas
1. Thou shalt not leave “Christ” out of Christmas.
2. Thou shalt not value they gifts by their cost, for many shall signify love that is more blessed and beautiful than silver and gold.
3. Thou shalt give thyself with thy gifts. Thy love, thy personality, and thy service shall increase the value of thy gifts a hundredfold and he that receiveth them shall treasure them forever.
4. Thou shalt not let Santa Claus take the place of Christ, lest Christmas become a fairy tale rather than a sublime reality in the spiritual realm.
5. Thou shalt not burden thy servants, the salesperson, the mail carrier and the merchant. They all shall have your consideration.
6. Thou shalt not neglect the church. Its Christmas services are planned to help spiritualize the Christmas season for thee, thy family and thy friends.
7. Thou shalt not neglect the needy. Let they bountiful blessings be shared with the many who will go hungry and cold unless thou are generous at Christmas.
8. Thou shalt be as a little child. Christmas is the day of the Christ Child; not until thou has become in spirit as a little child art thou ready to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.
9. Thou shalt prepare thy soul for Christmas. Verily most of us spend much time and money getting gifts ready, but few seconds in preparing our souls.
10. Thou shalt give thy heart to Christ. Let thy Christmas list have Christ in thy heart at the top as thy gift to Him this Christmas.
Youth/Young Adults
These are the dates and activities we have lined up for December:
· Wednesday, December 2 6:30-8:30
We'll be decorating the Christmas Tree!
Bring a wrapped ornament for the exchange!
· Saturday, December 5 10:30-1:00
Come to St. Paul's to help serve at Community Table.
· Saturday, December 12 9 - Noon
Play Practice
· Saturday, December 19 Noon - ?
Play
· Sunday, December 20 9 am. -?
Play
· Tuesday, December 22 6-8 p.m.
Ring Bells for Salvation Army
Contact Christi Lewis for more details! 720-0072
· Wednesday, December 2 6:30-8:30
We'll be decorating the Christmas Tree!
Bring a wrapped ornament for the exchange!
· Saturday, December 5 10:30-1:00
Come to St. Paul's to help serve at Community Table.
· Saturday, December 12 9 - Noon
Play Practice
· Saturday, December 19 Noon - ?
Play
· Sunday, December 20 9 am. -?
Play
· Tuesday, December 22 6-8 p.m.
Ring Bells for Salvation Army
Contact Christi Lewis for more details! 720-0072
Community Table
Thank you to everyone who has given of themselves to help make Community Table the successful ministry it has been. Without the donations and the workers, we wouldn't be able to continue this service the first Saturday of each month. It is predicted that our numbers to feed will keep increasing.
If you are able to contribute at any level, it would be very much appreciated. Each month we need twenty (or more) pounds of meat - plus additional ingredients for the main course, three gallons of milk, one and a half gallons of juice, and various desserts. We are already blessed with
some generous members who donate the vegetables, fruit, and bread on a monthly basis. Would you please prayfully consider joining us with this mission?
some generous members who donate the vegetables, fruit, and bread on a monthly basis. Would you please prayfully consider joining us with this mission?
Congregational Meeting
On Sunday, December 13th, following our Sunday worship, a Congregational Meeting will be held. At this meeting we will be electing church officers and ministry council members, voting on Velte Benevolent proposals, and voting on our 2010 Church Ministry Budget.
Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering
Thank You check recipients and others who received financial assistance from the 2008 Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering were overwhelmed by the generosity of American Baptist congregations in the midst of the most severe recession since the Great Depression. Contributions to the RMMO in 2008 totaled $1,358,537. Of that amount, 57% was distributed as Thank You checks to 3,238 retired American Baptist ministers, missionaries and their widowed spouses. 38% was made available to people with emergency and other heavy financial needs, and 5% was used for administrative expenses.
Church Finances
One of the bright spots to our giving the past several months is that for July through October we have received more in our general giving than we have spent. Thank you! However, as of the end of October we have spent more than we have received for the year so that our General Fund year-to-date balance is a negative $3,667. Please keep our finances before God in prayer. Thanks.
Christmas Eve Service
One of our great traditions is our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service. It will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 24th.
Sunday School Update
There will be no Sunday School on Sunday, December 27th. Worship will be at the regular time of 10:15 am.
Out of Office
Pastor Jim will be out of the office from December 25 through December 28. However, he can be reached at 450-7680.
December Greeters
6 Judy Pfister
13 Judy Pfister
20 Becky Zoglman
24 Nancy Biettler
27 Becky Zoglman or Kathy Najdowski
We at WCBC have a need for Greeters. If you would like to help out with this easy, but vital ministry, please call Kathy Najdowski. (Greeters are needed for February and beyond.)
13 Judy Pfister
20 Becky Zoglman
24 Nancy Biettler
27 Becky Zoglman or Kathy Najdowski
We at WCBC have a need for Greeters. If you would like to help out with this easy, but vital ministry, please call Kathy Najdowski. (Greeters are needed for February and beyond.)
December Birthdays
2 Nathan Schwandt
4 Benjamin Romnek
4 Ellen Schwandner
4 Sara Taake
5 Elaine Bastian
11 Jeannie Grable
11 Barb Moravec
16 Andrew Zoglman
19 Dottie Friesen
4 Benjamin Romnek
4 Ellen Schwandner
4 Sara Taake
5 Elaine Bastian
11 Jeannie Grable
11 Barb Moravec
16 Andrew Zoglman
19 Dottie Friesen
23 Amy Taake
25 Tom Romnek
27 Kim Rose
28 Moo Khu Htoo
30 Judy Pfister
30 Kim Rose
25 Tom Romnek
27 Kim Rose
28 Moo Khu Htoo
30 Judy Pfister
30 Kim Rose
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
November 2009 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
For the past five weeks we have tried a noble experiment. On the last Sunday evening in September and all of the Sunday evenings in October, we here at WCBC have had Sunday evening activities. (Still one game and pizza night to go as of this writing.) I was a bit reluctant at first to schedule these activities, but with the encouragement of my wife and Christi Lewis, I had hopes for the good experiences our church could have through them. Certainly, coming together as people of faith can have many positive benefits.
For the past five weeks we have tried a noble experiment. On the last Sunday evening in September and all of the Sunday evenings in October, we here at WCBC have had Sunday evening activities. (Still one game and pizza night to go as of this writing.) I was a bit reluctant at first to schedule these activities, but with the encouragement of my wife and Christi Lewis, I had hopes for the good experiences our church could have through them. Certainly, coming together as people of faith can have many positive benefits.
What has happened with our Sunday evening activities? I have found that our Sunday night activities have been a tremendous blessing! On our first game and pizza night we had over 30 people participate. It was great fellowship just to converse with one another, play some games, eat some pizza, and have fun. Building relationships with fellow Christians is so vitally important to our church life. Having fun doing so just adds icing to the cake.
The following Sunday we had a Sunday evening worship experience. We had a guest praise band, experienced the Lord’s Supper a bit differently, and worshiped God. Around 40 of us participated, enjoying popcorn and fellowship afterwards. There’s that word again – “fellowship.” It’s a strange word in our 21st century, but it describes the joyful interaction we have with one another because we are brothers and sisters in Christ.
On the second and third Sunday evenings in October we had experiences devoted to outreach ministry. The first of these was spent visiting individuals and families related to our church. Our visits went well, and we only wish we would have had more time to visit more people. The second evening was spent raking leaves of some of our church family. This was a “hands-on” service opportunity, and all who participated came away feeling they had made a difference in someone’s life through a simple task. Both of these experiences included a meal and fellowship. We enjoyed serving others, eating together, and just having fun.
Notice all the benefits of our Sunday night activities: Worship, Service, Ministry, Fellowship – these are the marks of a church that strives to live up to our calling to be the Body of Christ.
The opportunities mentioned above happened in September and October. However, there are also opportunities to worship, serve, minister and fellowship all the time at our church. Consider ways you can participate in these, and see what a tremendous difference it is to be active in the Body of Christ.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Jim
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday morning, November 1st. “Fall back,” and enjoy an extra hour of sleep. Better yet, use the extra hour by coming to Sunday School!
Homecoming Sunday
On Sunday, November 1st, we are holding a “Homecoming Sunday.” Many schools have football homecomings, where alumni from past years come back to the school they attended in the past. Our Homecoming Sunday is somewhat similar in that we are inviting church members and friends that we haven’t seen in awhile, to come back “home,” and join us in our worship of God. Together we will celebrate our “oneness” in Christ, for we are brothers and sisters of Jesus.
If you haven’t been to WCBC in awhile, we certainly would love to see you! If you know of someone who hasn’t worshiped with us in awhile, please invite them to our “Homecoming.” Nothing is as special as coming home.
If you haven’t been to WCBC in awhile, we certainly would love to see you! If you know of someone who hasn’t worshiped with us in awhile, please invite them to our “Homecoming.” Nothing is as special as coming home.
The Life You've Always Wanted
The Life You’ve Always Wanted is the title of a new six week Sunday School course now being offered. If you’re tired of the status quo – if you suspect there’s more to Christianity than what you’ve experienced – then you will want to participate in this course on transformation through spiritual disciplines. These are not disciples as in “I have to do these,” but rather ways that help us connect with God that we find satisfying and fulfilling. Please join us on Sunday mornings at 9:00 and discover the life you’ve always wanted.
Out-of-office
Pastor Jim will be out of the office from Monday afternoon, November 2nd, through Saturday, November 8th, attending the Academy for Spiritual Formation. Please feel free to contact him on his cell phone at 920-450-7680. (There will be no Adult Foundations on Tuesday, November 3rd.)
Dr. Arlo Reicther to be at WCBC
On Sunday, November 8th, Dr. Arlo Reichter, Executive Minister for the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin, will be worshiping with us and bringing us the morning’s message.
American Baptist International Ministries
John and Tomoko Armagost serve with the Japan Baptist Union churches in Kansai. In all they do the Armagosts look for opportunities to share the Gospel with people who never have had contact with a church. Children, parents and grandparents learn about the love of God through these initial experiences, which are like first steps that can eventually lead to lifetime decisions to follow Jesus. Here are some examples:
Children: In modern Japan, schools regularly provide activities for elementary-aged children following the normal school day. However, the schools in the Sone area of Osaka have a policy of not having such programs on Wednesdays. This has provided an opportunity for the Sone Church to offer an after-school program called “Olive Club,” which includes games, a Bible story, singing and snacks. One day recently as John and Tomoko helped provide leadership, they overheard one girl say to her friend on the way out the door, “This is best! Are you coming next week?”
Parents: When the church in Nara celebrates Pentecost – the birthday of the church and coming of the Holy Spirit – they have a special service. When the Armagosts spoke earlier this year on that Sunday, the sanctuary was filled with parents who are not normally there; they and their children, who attend the church’s weekday pre-school program, received a special invitation for Pentecost Sunday. Tomoko presented a children’s sermon using a candle and taught, “The flame is like God’s Holy Spirit. It gives light, and warmth, and look…it moves. It dances. It has energy and power. And that is what living with God is like.”
Grandparents: Some months ago one older woman attended her first “Tea-chime,” a gathering where women play the hand-chimes and enjoy a time of fellowship, tea, and a word of prayer. That first step grew to become steps of faith! At her recent baptism, “Mrs. K,” gave this testimony. “I didn’t know how to pray, but I learned to pray.” Now her grandchildren call her, “Amen Grandma,” because when they visit each other, she prays with them each night before they go to sleep.
Please pray for the Armagosts and our other American Baptist Missionaries, who serve Christ and people around the world.
Children: In modern Japan, schools regularly provide activities for elementary-aged children following the normal school day. However, the schools in the Sone area of Osaka have a policy of not having such programs on Wednesdays. This has provided an opportunity for the Sone Church to offer an after-school program called “Olive Club,” which includes games, a Bible story, singing and snacks. One day recently as John and Tomoko helped provide leadership, they overheard one girl say to her friend on the way out the door, “This is best! Are you coming next week?”
Parents: When the church in Nara celebrates Pentecost – the birthday of the church and coming of the Holy Spirit – they have a special service. When the Armagosts spoke earlier this year on that Sunday, the sanctuary was filled with parents who are not normally there; they and their children, who attend the church’s weekday pre-school program, received a special invitation for Pentecost Sunday. Tomoko presented a children’s sermon using a candle and taught, “The flame is like God’s Holy Spirit. It gives light, and warmth, and look…it moves. It dances. It has energy and power. And that is what living with God is like.”
Grandparents: Some months ago one older woman attended her first “Tea-chime,” a gathering where women play the hand-chimes and enjoy a time of fellowship, tea, and a word of prayer. That first step grew to become steps of faith! At her recent baptism, “Mrs. K,” gave this testimony. “I didn’t know how to pray, but I learned to pray.” Now her grandchildren call her, “Amen Grandma,” because when they visit each other, she prays with them each night before they go to sleep.
Please pray for the Armagosts and our other American Baptist Missionaries, who serve Christ and people around the world.
Congregational Meeting
On Sunday, November 8th, following worship, a congregational meeting will be held for the purpose of previewing the proposed 2010 ministry and budget forecast.
Christmas Gift Giving
Christmas shoe boxes bring joy and hope to children in desperate situations world wide. Through the efforts of Samaritan’s Purse and your donations, children are seeing the love of Jesus in action, and reading about him through the “Greatest Gift of All”, a booklet which is included with each box. Children also are brought into follow-up discipleship programs and many come to faith in Jesus.
In 2008, over 8 millions shoe boxes, filled with their many little gifts from generous people like you, were delivered. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” -- Matthew 19:13. Envelopes and shoe boxes are located at the back of church. Boxes need to be at church by Nov 15. For more information, see RoseMary Buelow.
In 2008, over 8 millions shoe boxes, filled with their many little gifts from generous people like you, were delivered. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” -- Matthew 19:13. Envelopes and shoe boxes are located at the back of church. Boxes need to be at church by Nov 15. For more information, see RoseMary Buelow.
Christmas Gatherings
What are Christmas Gatherings? They are a doable, fruitful means of sharing the love of Jesus with neighbors, co-workers and friends. Christmas Gatherings are an evangelistic, social gathering in a home featuring seasonal refreshments, spontaneous sharing of Christmas traditions, and a brief, non-threatening talk on the meaning of Christmas. If you would like to host such an event in your neighborhood, training is available on Tuesday, November 3rd, and Monday, November 9th, both from 6:15 to 8:45 pm. For more information, check out the bulletin board.
Words of Wisdom
· Don’t let your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case.
· Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited – until you try to sit in their pews.
· Many folks want to serve God – but only as advisers.
· It is easier to preach 10 sermons than it is to live one.
· The good Lord didn’t create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
· Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited – until you try to sit in their pews.
· Many folks want to serve God – but only as advisers.
· It is easier to preach 10 sermons than it is to live one.
· The good Lord didn’t create anything without a purpose, but mosquitoes come close.
Church Finances
Although we are currently seeing a negative $2,336 through September, we have made up some of the deficit we have had this year. Thank you for your faithful giving. You make ministry possible! “The one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-8.
Tips for Staying Healthy
· Wash your hands often using warm water and enough soap to create a lather. Rub hands together briskly for about 15 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday.”)
· Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
· Practice good habits, such as not smoking, getting plenty of sleep, staying active, managing stress, drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious food.
· If you get sick, protect others by covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze. Use a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Wash your hands often or use a hand sanitizer.
· If you are sick, stay home from work and school and avoid large public gatherings if you are coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose.
· Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
· Practice good habits, such as not smoking, getting plenty of sleep, staying active, managing stress, drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious food.
· If you get sick, protect others by covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze. Use a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Wash your hands often or use a hand sanitizer.
· If you are sick, stay home from work and school and avoid large public gatherings if you are coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose.
Velte Benevolent Requests
Each year at our December church business meeting, the Velte Committee makes recommendations to the congregation for the use of Velte Benevolent Funds. The recommendations of the Velte Committee are based on the proposals written by congregation members. So if there is a non-profit organization that you would like to recommend to be considered for these funds, submit your proposal to Kim Rose. Some of the previous recipients of these funds include: Leaven, Habitat for Humanity, Boy Scout Troop 300, Community Clothes Closet, and Salvation Army. For more information, see Velte Committee members (Pat Lewis, Kim Rose, Fritz Bowers, Kathy Hoehne,) or Pastor Jim.
Ministry Council Recommendations
The Ministry Council is now receiving recommendations for a new Ministry Council member, to begin serving a three year term beginning in January. Please submit your recommendations to either Barb Moravec, our Church Moderator, or Pastor Jim.
Thanksgiving Humor
A food editor of the local newspaper received a telephone call from a woman inquiring how long to cook a 22-pound turkey. “Just a minute,” said the food editor, turning to consult a chart. “Thank you very much,” replied the novice cook, and hung up!
Thanksgiving Eve Worship
On Wednesday, November 25th, at 7:00 pm, we will host the Thanksgiving Eve worship service. This service of thanksgiving and praise includes our neighbors, Faith United Methodist, and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.
Baptist Light Articles
Anyone wishing to submit an article to the Baptist Light may contact Pastor Jim at 722-4312. You may call him with your details, submit PC diskettes or printed material. Please have articles to him by the 20th of each month to allow time to print by the 1st of each month.
“It’s gonna take a MIRACLE for that to happen!”
But miracles are what Christmas is all about! Plan on learning more about the “miracle” as the children and youth share the program titled, Miracle on Main Street, on Saturday, December 19th at 4:00 and at the worship service on December 20th. Practice times for November are as follows:
Date
Sun. School singing
9:45-10:00
Children’s Church
Approx. 10:45-11:15
Business Meeting
11:15-??
Nov. 1st
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 8th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
All
Nov. 15th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 22nd
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 29th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
If you have any questions, please talk to Holly Robinson, Becky Luebker, or Becky Zoglman.
Date
Sun. School singing
9:45-10:00
Children’s Church
Approx. 10:45-11:15
Business Meeting
11:15-??
Nov. 1st
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 8th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
All
Nov. 15th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 22nd
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
Nov. 29th
PS-5th grade
K-5, select parts
If you have any questions, please talk to Holly Robinson, Becky Luebker, or Becky Zoglman.
Greeters
The Greeters on Sunday morning for the month of November are the Youth Group.
If you would like to serve as a Greeter, we could use your help. A sign-up sheet is available on the back table, or you could call Pastor Jim or Kathy Najdowski. This is a great way to serve your church and bless people coming to worship.
If you would like to serve as a Greeter, we could use your help. A sign-up sheet is available on the back table, or you could call Pastor Jim or Kathy Najdowski. This is a great way to serve your church and bless people coming to worship.
November Birthdays
3 David Isom
5 Amber Lewis
6 Ernie Delikowski
6 Mary Miller-Wenzel
6 Ashley Veldboom
8 Abbey Lewis
9 Amber Fesko
11 Josh Rose
13 Erik Demarais
13 Kathleen Harrington
14 Scott Fesko
5 Amber Lewis
6 Ernie Delikowski
6 Mary Miller-Wenzel
6 Ashley Veldboom
8 Abbey Lewis
9 Amber Fesko
11 Josh Rose
13 Erik Demarais
13 Kathleen Harrington
14 Scott Fesko
23 Jenny Wolfe
25 Cathy Lieske
25 Miranda Romnek
27 Neil Mongan
30 Vicci Achtner
30 Lois Harrington
25 Cathy Lieske
25 Miranda Romnek
27 Neil Mongan
30 Vicci Achtner
30 Lois Harrington
Monday, September 28, 2009
October 2009 Newsletter
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
You and I follow Jesus because God used someone to share the Good News. We have continued and grown as followers of Jesus because God has used others to celebrate with us in victory, encourage us in defeat and call us forward in faith.
You can help to make the same things happen in the lives of people half a world away! That’s why I am writing to ask you both to pray for and to give to the 2009 World Mission Offering.
Our congregation uses the World Mission Offering to support our American Baptist International Mission work around the world. Our giving to the World Mission Offering helps people
· Come to Christ
· Grow in Christ
· Change their world with Christ.
This year International Ministries invites us to look at global mission in these terms:
Be Surprised by Walking in Different Shoes.
“In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus…he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born as a man and became like a servant.” (Philippians 2:5, 7 NCV.)
This year our World Mission Offering will be used in two ways. First, one-half of the offering will go directly to the ministry of David and Betsy Perkins, as we support them in their ministry in India. David and Betsy have worshiped with us here at WCBC on a couple of occasions, and have shared their stories and their ministry with us. Secondly, one-half of the offering will support our American Baptist International Missions ministry around the globe, as we strive to make Christ known to a world who desperately needs him. Our goal is $300 for the Perkins, and $300 for International Ministries.
We have received from the Lord. Let us also give and let Him empower our gifts to transform the world.
Sincerely,
Pastor Jim
You and I follow Jesus because God used someone to share the Good News. We have continued and grown as followers of Jesus because God has used others to celebrate with us in victory, encourage us in defeat and call us forward in faith.
You can help to make the same things happen in the lives of people half a world away! That’s why I am writing to ask you both to pray for and to give to the 2009 World Mission Offering.
Our congregation uses the World Mission Offering to support our American Baptist International Mission work around the world. Our giving to the World Mission Offering helps people
· Come to Christ
· Grow in Christ
· Change their world with Christ.
This year International Ministries invites us to look at global mission in these terms:
Be Surprised by Walking in Different Shoes.
“In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus…he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born as a man and became like a servant.” (Philippians 2:5, 7 NCV.)
This year our World Mission Offering will be used in two ways. First, one-half of the offering will go directly to the ministry of David and Betsy Perkins, as we support them in their ministry in India. David and Betsy have worshiped with us here at WCBC on a couple of occasions, and have shared their stories and their ministry with us. Secondly, one-half of the offering will support our American Baptist International Missions ministry around the globe, as we strive to make Christ known to a world who desperately needs him. Our goal is $300 for the Perkins, and $300 for International Ministries.
We have received from the Lord. Let us also give and let Him empower our gifts to transform the world.
Sincerely,
Pastor Jim
Sunday Nights in October
In addition to our Sunday Night Live, we have church activities for each of the Sunday evenings in October.
Join us on October 11 for a Sandwich Buffet and a night of visitation. Bring some sandwiches to share as we eat together and then visit some of our church family. This activity begins at 5:00 pm.
On October 18 we’ll meet at 4:00 pm to rake leaves for some who need to have this done for them, and then we’ll enjoy a Chili and bread meal together.
October 25 will feature a Pizza and Game Night here at the church, beginning at 5:00 pm.
Join us on October 11 for a Sandwich Buffet and a night of visitation. Bring some sandwiches to share as we eat together and then visit some of our church family. This activity begins at 5:00 pm.
On October 18 we’ll meet at 4:00 pm to rake leaves for some who need to have this done for them, and then we’ll enjoy a Chili and bread meal together.
October 25 will feature a Pizza and Game Night here at the church, beginning at 5:00 pm.
Common Sense Flu Precautions
All flu, including pandemic flu, is caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It is generally spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. An effective vaccination against the pandemic flu – when it is available – will be the best way to prevent the disease.
To fight the annual flu, members of high-risk groups should get a flu shot. Even those who are not in the high-risk categories should get a flu shot.
The following simple, common-sense precautions recommended by the CDC, can also help.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
Stay home when you’re sick or have flu symptoms. Get plenty of rest and check with your doctor.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, not your hands. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you and others against germs. When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand rubs or gel sanitizers.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread to your system when you touch something that is contaminated with germs and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods. Avoid smoking, which may increase the risk of serious consequences if you do contact the flu.
(Small containers of Hand Sanitizer are available for your use while at church.)
To fight the annual flu, members of high-risk groups should get a flu shot. Even those who are not in the high-risk categories should get a flu shot.
The following simple, common-sense precautions recommended by the CDC, can also help.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
Stay home when you’re sick or have flu symptoms. Get plenty of rest and check with your doctor.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, not your hands. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you and others against germs. When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand rubs or gel sanitizers.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread to your system when you touch something that is contaminated with germs and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods. Avoid smoking, which may increase the risk of serious consequences if you do contact the flu.
(Small containers of Hand Sanitizer are available for your use while at church.)
Church Humor
One Sunday, a pastor told his congregation that the church needed some extra money and asked the people to prayerfully consider giving a little extra in the offering plate. He said that whoever gave the most would be able to pick out three hymns.
After the offering plates were passed, the pastor glanced down and noticed that someone had placed a $1,000 bill in the offering. He was so excited that he immediately shared his joy with his congregation and said he’d like to personally thank the person who placed the money in the plate.
And there sat Rosie all the way in the back shyly raising her hand. The pastor asked her to come to the front. Slowly she made her way to the pastor. He told her how wonderful it was that she gave so much and in thanksgiving asked her to pick out three hymns. Her eyes brightened as she looked over the congregation, pointed to the three most handsome men in the building and said, “I’ll take him and him and him.” (Falls Community Church.)
After the offering plates were passed, the pastor glanced down and noticed that someone had placed a $1,000 bill in the offering. He was so excited that he immediately shared his joy with his congregation and said he’d like to personally thank the person who placed the money in the plate.
And there sat Rosie all the way in the back shyly raising her hand. The pastor asked her to come to the front. Slowly she made her way to the pastor. He told her how wonderful it was that she gave so much and in thanksgiving asked her to pick out three hymns. Her eyes brightened as she looked over the congregation, pointed to the three most handsome men in the building and said, “I’ll take him and him and him.” (Falls Community Church.)
October Wedding Anniversaries
2 Greg & Kathleen Harrington
3 August & Esther Bratz
3 LeRoy & Diana DeBroux
5 Dan & Michelle Franz
7 George & Cathy Strohmeyer
9 Tom & Roxanne Schwandt
9 Nick & Tina Voigt
11 Tom & Alicia Romnek
18 Moo Khu Htoo & Hsar Say Paw
20 Richard & Kim Rose
22 Mike & Roxane Kesselhon
29 Art & Ellen Schwandner
29 Perry & Veronica Smith
October Birthdays
6 Sue Schroder
7 Tori Luebker
8 Ken Burrows
10 David Hill
16 Dan Franz
17 Steven Searles
18 Fritz Bowers
20 Richard Rose
21 Roxanne Schwandt
22 Carl Stilp
25 Alice Dorton
30 Charles Pfister
31 Julie Delikowski
31 Michelle Franz
7 Tori Luebker
8 Ken Burrows
10 David Hill
16 Dan Franz
17 Steven Searles
18 Fritz Bowers
20 Richard Rose
21 Roxanne Schwandt
22 Carl Stilp
25 Alice Dorton
30 Charles Pfister
31 Julie Delikowski
31 Michelle Franz
Quick Facts about International Ministries
International Ministries is supported solely through the generosity of churches and individuals. The primary fundraising vehicle is the World Mission Offering.
International Ministries is a Christian mission organization connecting U.S. churches and individuals to holistic missions around the world. Organized in 1814, American Baptist International Ministries was the first Baptist mission agency formed in North America. International Ministries has more than 1,800 short-term and long-term missionaries, bringing U.S. and Puerto Rico churches together with partners in over 70 countries in cutting-edge ministries that tell the Good News of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs.
The Mission Statement of the American Baptist International Ministries is: Our mission is to glorify God in all the earth by crossing cultural boundaries to help people come to Christ, grow in Christ and change their worlds with Christ.
Our contribution to the 2009 World Mission Offering will bring good news of the love of Jesus to people all over the world while helping to meet human needs in the following areas: leading people to faith and starting new churches; training future church leaders; abolishing human trafficking; promoting health in an HIV/AIDS world; creating economic opportunity and building futures; opening the mind and empowering the heart; seeking peace and offering refuge.
American Baptist Churches of WI Annual Meeting
The ABCW Annual Meeting will be held on Friday and Saturday, October 9-10, in Milwaukee. On Friday, the gathering begins at 7:00 pm, at Progressive Baptist Church, with a business meeting, worship, and the president’s reception. On Saturday, the annual meeting moves to Calvary Baptist Church, beginning at 9:00 am with Bible Study and singing, followed by workshops and mission tours of the Milwaukee Christian Center, Greentree/Teutonia Community Center and Tudor Oaks Retirement Community. In the afternoon, a reception celebrating Rainbow Acres 35th anniversary will be held at 3:00, followed by a closing worship celebration at 4:00. Registration information is available on the bulletin board in the hallway.
Annual Meeting Mission Mobilization
One aspect of the ABCW Annual Meeting is Mission Mobilization, which is designed to minister to people in Milwaukee as a witness to our faith as American Baptists. The following are some opportunities to participate:
Friday Night Opportunities:
Bring a can/case of green beans (or other canned goods) to the Friday night session (or put in the basket here at church.)
Bring a dozen or more homemade cookies to be distributed on Saturday at the food distribution and street ministry outreaches.
Bring a blanket and/or stocking cap to be shared through the street ministry.
Saturday Opportunities:
Help distribute food to individuals and families at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church, 2114 W. Mitchell St. (Orientation begins at 8:30 am – park in the back of the church.)
Help prepare and pack box lunches for the above ministry. There are two locations for this: Underwood Church, 1919 Wauwatosa Ave., Wauwatosa; Roundy Church, 1250 E. Hampton Rd., Whitefish Bay. You will need to be at the church of your choice by 8:30 am.
Street Ministry at 10th and Washington – make contact with the homeless and share food with them. Depending upon weather, hand out blankets and stocking caps. This begins at 1:00 pm.
Three “hammer and nails” opportunities. (See Pastor Jim for further information on these opportunities as well as those mentioned above.)
As you can see, there are a variety of ways that you can participate in this year’s Mission Mobilization! Together, we will make a difference!
Sunday Night Live
On Sunday, October 4, at 6:00 pm, we will have a unique Sunday evening worship service. (We will have our regular worship service on Sunday morning as well.) There will be a bit of a different feel to this worship service as we have special guests – the Memorial Baptist Church of Fond du Lac praise band. Communion will be served – and it will be served a bit differently. So come and worship with us on Sunday evening, as well as Sunday mornings.
Church Updates
· Scott Fesko has resigned from his position as volunteer staff person responsible for our Buildings and Property. “Thanks, Scott, for your wonderful ministry with us the last couple of years.”
· Jack Zoglman is our new volunteer staff person responsible for Buildings and Property. Jack has all kinds of skills that he brings to this position. “Thanks, Jack, for saying “yes” to this important ministry in our church.”
· Kathy Hoehne and Holly Robinson will be sharing the ministry of music on Sunday mornings for the near future in the place of Joy Veldboom, who recently resigned. We appreciate Kathy and Holly for leading us through music in our worship experiences.
· Jack Zoglman is our new volunteer staff person responsible for Buildings and Property. Jack has all kinds of skills that he brings to this position. “Thanks, Jack, for saying “yes” to this important ministry in our church.”
· Kathy Hoehne and Holly Robinson will be sharing the ministry of music on Sunday mornings for the near future in the place of Joy Veldboom, who recently resigned. We appreciate Kathy and Holly for leading us through music in our worship experiences.
Mission Project for October
Our mission project for October will be Christmas shoe boxes through Samaritan’s Purse. With starting this in October, this will give us plenty of time for those who wish to share in this project. Shoe boxes are filled with school supplies, toiletries, small toys and hard candies.
Christmas shoe boxes bring joy and hope to children in desperate situations world wide through this simple gift and the Good News of God’s love. Booklets are included in the shoe box “The greatest Gift of All” Children are hearing the Good News with the booklet and in follow-up discipleship programs and many are coming to faith in Jesus Christ through these shoe boxes. In 2008, over 8 millions shoe boxes were delivered. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these “ Matthew 19:13
Envelopes will be located at the back of church. Boxes need to be at church by Nov 15. For more information, see RoseMary Buelow.
Christmas shoe boxes bring joy and hope to children in desperate situations world wide through this simple gift and the Good News of God’s love. Booklets are included in the shoe box “The greatest Gift of All” Children are hearing the Good News with the booklet and in follow-up discipleship programs and many are coming to faith in Jesus Christ through these shoe boxes. In 2008, over 8 millions shoe boxes were delivered. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these “ Matthew 19:13
Envelopes will be located at the back of church. Boxes need to be at church by Nov 15. For more information, see RoseMary Buelow.
Northeast Association American Baptist Women
The Northeast Association Women will hold their Fall Meeting on Wednesday, October 21, 2009, at the Memorial Baptist Church, 645 Forest Ave, Fond du Lac. It begins at 9:00 am with a coffee fellowship, and is followed at 9:30 with devotions and a business meeting. The program will be given by Ardis Mitchell, who will share the story of Alex and Chris Kuhlow of Neenah, who went to the Philippines as missionaries. Their contact with a young girl on the beach selling handmade crafts developed into a life long friendship. (If you are planning to go, contact Shirley Klug.)
Eagle Scott Award Presentation for Scott Lewis
(From Pat and Christi Lewis): “We are excited to announce that Scott Lewis attained the Eagle Scott rank in Boy Scouts on August 19, 2009. We are planning an Eagle Scout Court of Honor for him to be held at Whiting Community Baptist Church on Saturday, October 17, at 2:00 pm. Everyone is invited to attend this ceremony. There will be cake and punch afterwards. Please RSVP to Pat & Christi if you are able to join in our celebration.” (720-0072.)
Tree Farm Fall Outing
Oct. 24th at the Tree Farm in Wautoma! Come anytime during the day. Activities start at 9:00 a.m.
Bring your own sack lunch so you can eat whenever you get hungry! Also bring work gloves, rakes, chain saws. We had a great time last year and got a whole lot done. Bring your family and take a few hikes around the property. If you have never been there, this is a great time to come. If you need directions, see the bulletin board in the church hallway or ask someone who's been there. We would like to see some new faces. Are you going to be one of them?
Bring your own sack lunch so you can eat whenever you get hungry! Also bring work gloves, rakes, chain saws. We had a great time last year and got a whole lot done. Bring your family and take a few hikes around the property. If you have never been there, this is a great time to come. If you need directions, see the bulletin board in the church hallway or ask someone who's been there. We would like to see some new faces. Are you going to be one of them?
Church Finances
As of the end of August we were a negative $3,293. We continue to face challenging times with our finances here at WCBC. We are grateful for all who faithfully share their faith and their finances through their giving. Thank you!
Community Table Thanks
Thanks from the Community Table volunteers of our church to Kathy and Tom Schroder, for their donation of 7 cases of vegetables!
Ministry Council Recommendations
The Ministry Council is now receiving recommendations for new Ministry Council members. Please submit your recommendation to either our Ministry Council moderator, Barb Moravec, or Pastor Jim.
Velte Benevolent Requests
Each year at our December church business meeting, the Velte Committee makes recommendations to the congregation for the use of Velte Benevolent Funds. The recommendations of the Velte Committee are based on the proposals written by congregation members. So if there is a non-profit organization that you would like to recommend to receive some of the funds, submit your proposal to Kim Rose. Some of the previous recipients of these funds include: Leaven, Habitat for Humanity, Boy Scout Troop 300, Community Clothes Closet, and Salvation Army. For more information, see Velte Committee members, or Pastor Jim.
Greeters for October
October 4 Kathy Najdowski
October 11 Julie Delikowski
October 18 Becky Zoglman
October 25 Julie Delikowski
Thursday, August 27, 2009
September 2009 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
I have recently completed my fifth week at the Academy for Spiritual Formation. Only three more weeks to go! To be sure, my time at the Academy has been enriching and rewarding. It has also been challenging and demanding, and has required of me a lot of soul-searching.
I have recently completed my fifth week at the Academy for Spiritual Formation. Only three more weeks to go! To be sure, my time at the Academy has been enriching and rewarding. It has also been challenging and demanding, and has required of me a lot of soul-searching.
The purpose of the academy is to encourage participants in their journey of faith. The actual stated purpose is a bit more detailed:
The purpose of the Academy is to provide an in-depth and comprehensive experience in spiritual formation for lay and clergy persons who are highly motivated in their sense of call to follow Christ and serve the church and the world.
The Academy experience seeks a spirituality that integrates body, mind, and spirit. So our sessions have included information on taking better care of our bodies, reading and teaching that enlightens our minds, and regular worship (three times a day), as well as encouragement in the practice of spiritual disciplines. Thus far I have found the Academy to be a whole lot richer and deeper than I ever dreamed it would be.
You and I as people of faith are challenged to grow in our faith. Ever since we were baptized, Jesus has been inviting us to get to know him more personally. One does not need to attend an Academy for Spiritual Formation for this to happen, for certainly there are plenty of opportunities nearby to enrich our faith in Christ. Yet we do need to take advantage of those opportunities. Why is this important? Because for every message we receive or hear about our faith, and what it means to live as a Christian in today’s society, we receive a dozen or so more messages that show life quite contrary to the message of God’s Word. You may hear about loving your neighbor on Sunday, but through the rest of the week you may hear about getting revenge, taking advantage of others, looking out for number one, and all kinds of other messages that are quite contrary to loving your neighbor. And you will hear these messages from the most unlikely places – your friends at work, the television shows you watch, the football players who take great pride on hurting an opponent, the behaviors demonstrated at school, and so forth. For many, the only exposure to life the way God wants us to live is one hour on Sunday morning. And that is hardly enough. So you can see we are bucking the odds on knowing how to live out our faith. It takes great intentionality on our part if we are to know and learn how Christ wants us to live as his disciples in a society that is not focused on his ways.
For that very reason we have opportunities for spiritual formation right here at church. We have a variety of ways in which we can grow deeper in our faith and develop a spirituality that blesses God, ourselves, and those we live with. In the history of the Church we have called these opportunities Sunday School classes, Bible Studies, and so forth. In reality, they are spiritual formation opportunities – opportunities for you and I to grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus and more intentional in our walk as a Christian.
It is my prayer that we will take advantage of the opportunities for spiritual formation right here at WCBC. Let us strive to be a people who want more and more to know Jesus and what it means to follow him. This fall, join a Sunday School class, our marriage class, Tuesday night studies, or any of the other studies available. And make sure to bring your children, if you have them, and assist them in their spiritual formation. In such a way we will honor Christ.
Peace,
Pastor Jim
Fall Church Schedule
Just a reminder that on Sunday, September 6th, our Fall Worship schedule begins, meaning that worship will begin at 10:15 am. And then on Sunday, September 13th, our Sunday schedule includes prayer time at 8:45 am, Sunday School at 9:00 am, and Worship at 10:15 am.
All-Church Game and Pizza Night
On Sunday evening, September 27th, beginning at 5:00 pm, we are holding a Game and Pizza night here at church. Bring your favorite games (snacks and soda if you want), and enjoy time together with church friends. Once everyone is here, we’ll order pizza and divide the costs.
Marriage Group
On Friday evening, September 18th, at 6:30 pm, a group for married couples and interested singles, will begin. The study we’ll be using is called: I Love You More: How Everyday Problems Can Strengthen Your Marriage. This will be a six session course and childcare will be provided. There will also be free resources, give-a ways, and snacks. Please register by September 8, so that resources can be ordered. Contact Pastor Jim at 722-4312.
Thanks for VBS
(This is a letter we received from a parent of two children who attended this year’s VBS.)
The kids had a blast at VBS! Will told me about Moses and King Pharaoh and the Red Sea! Then he told Helen this line after reading books on Thursday night. He said, “You know Mom, I know that God is always with us, but sometimes I just want someone with me who is not invisible!” Thanks again for all your preparation for VBS and investing in my children’s spiritual growth! Blessings, Mark. (Thanks to all our volunteers and those who helped in many, many ways for being the “visible” Jesus to the kids at VBS!)
The kids had a blast at VBS! Will told me about Moses and King Pharaoh and the Red Sea! Then he told Helen this line after reading books on Thursday night. He said, “You know Mom, I know that God is always with us, but sometimes I just want someone with me who is not invisible!” Thanks again for all your preparation for VBS and investing in my children’s spiritual growth! Blessings, Mark. (Thanks to all our volunteers and those who helped in many, many ways for being the “visible” Jesus to the kids at VBS!)
Church Finances
As of the end of July we are a negative $4,468.02. Our July giving was a plus $88.48. However, for the year we have spent almost $4500 more than we have received in tithes and offerings. We appreciate your giving to God’s work here at Whiting Community Baptist Church. May God bless and guide us through these difficult financial times.
Sunday Night Live!
On Sunday, October 4th, we will have a special evening worship service, in addition to our regular Sunday morning worship service. Sunday Night Live will begin at 6:00 pm, and be somewhat different than Sunday morning. The details are being worked out, but rest assured, you will have an opportunity to worship God and be blessed. In planning for future Sunday Night Lives, we are looking for people who play musical instruments, would like to share stories about their faith, enjoy being in skits, and would want to be on a planning team. If any of these items, or some other ideas you may have for a worship service pique an interest in you, contact Pastor Jim.
Annual Meeting of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin
The Annual Meeting of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin will be held on Friday and Saturday, October 9-10. This year the Annual Meeting will take place in Milwaukee, at the Progressive Baptist Church on Friday evening, and at Calvary Baptist Church on Saturday. The Business Meeting begins on Friday at 7:00 pm, followed by Worship at 7:30 pm. Saturday’s session begins at 9:00 am with a Bible Study and Singing. Then at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm there will be a variety of workshop options and Mission Tours. Options include: White Cross Bandage Rolling, Chin (Burmese) Baptist History/Current, Prayer Quilt Ministry, Project Focal Point, Milwaukee Christian Center, Greentree/Teutonia Community Center, and Tudor Oaks Retirement Community. There will also be a reception celebrating the 35th anniversary of Rainbow Acres at 3:00 pm, followed by a closing worship celebration at 4:00 pm.
Another aspect of the Annual Meeting is Mission Mobilization, led by the ABCW Commission on Congregational Mission, of which Pastor Jim is the moderator. The project of Mission Mobilization this year will be providing food to those on the near south side of Milwaukee. The Commission on Congregational Mission is looking for volunteers to help prepare food, distribute food, and to help build playhouses for kids of the community. If you are interested in helping in any of these projects, and would like more information, contact Pastor Jim.
There are other ways all of us can help with the Mission Mobilization of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin. We will be collecting the following to share with those in need in Milwaukee:
· Canned vegetables
· Toiletry items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, washcloths, soap, and shampoo.
· New or gently used coats, hats and gloves
· Cookies for the meals that will be served while food is being distributed
· Money.
A special rate for people attending the Annual Meeting and staying overnight in Milwaukee is available at the Quality Inn, in Brookfield. For information on the motel, and other aspects of the Annual Meeting, please see the bulletin board.
Another aspect of the Annual Meeting is Mission Mobilization, led by the ABCW Commission on Congregational Mission, of which Pastor Jim is the moderator. The project of Mission Mobilization this year will be providing food to those on the near south side of Milwaukee. The Commission on Congregational Mission is looking for volunteers to help prepare food, distribute food, and to help build playhouses for kids of the community. If you are interested in helping in any of these projects, and would like more information, contact Pastor Jim.
There are other ways all of us can help with the Mission Mobilization of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin. We will be collecting the following to share with those in need in Milwaukee:
· Canned vegetables
· Toiletry items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, washcloths, soap, and shampoo.
· New or gently used coats, hats and gloves
· Cookies for the meals that will be served while food is being distributed
· Money.
A special rate for people attending the Annual Meeting and staying overnight in Milwaukee is available at the Quality Inn, in Brookfield. For information on the motel, and other aspects of the Annual Meeting, please see the bulletin board.
Sunday School Kickoff
We begin Sunday School on Sunday, September 13th, at 9:00 am. There are classes for all ages. Our kick-off will include a light continental breakfast of donuts, coffee and juice.
The Adult Class will have a fascinating study entitled, “If you want to walk on water, you’ve got to get out of the boat!” This study, based on the book of the same title by John Ortberg, invites us to consider the incredible potential that awaits us as we learn to venture out on the risky waters of faith, with Jesus waiting to meet us in ways that will change us forever, deepen our character, and help us trust in God. Please join us!
The Adult Class will have a fascinating study entitled, “If you want to walk on water, you’ve got to get out of the boat!” This study, based on the book of the same title by John Ortberg, invites us to consider the incredible potential that awaits us as we learn to venture out on the risky waters of faith, with Jesus waiting to meet us in ways that will change us forever, deepen our character, and help us trust in God. Please join us!
FW Friends/Adult Formation
FW Friends and Adult Formation will begin on Tuesday, September 15th. We meet from 6:30 pm to 7:45 pm. We invite all children to the fun, games, crafts, snacks, Bible stories, and more that is for children, age 4 through Fifth grade. And we encourage the adults to come to a time of hearing from God through a study of His Word. The Adults will be studying the Book of Acts.
Youth/Young Adults
Here's a double blessing for you!
Beginning on September 12, we will be meeting on Saturday evenings at 6:30 p.m. to open God's Word, study the book of Proverbs (The Book of Fatherly Wisdom), and learn which traits exemplify Godly character. A Bible will be essential, and a Young's or Strong's Concordance will be very valuable in these studies.
Then, beginning on September 13, you will receive the opportunity on Sunday mornings, during the service, to share this wisdom with the younger ones while teaching Children's Church.
Those interested in joining us, please contact Christi Lewis, Phone: 720-0072, E-mail: christ4christ@sbcglobal.net
Beginning on September 12, we will be meeting on Saturday evenings at 6:30 p.m. to open God's Word, study the book of Proverbs (The Book of Fatherly Wisdom), and learn which traits exemplify Godly character. A Bible will be essential, and a Young's or Strong's Concordance will be very valuable in these studies.
Then, beginning on September 13, you will receive the opportunity on Sunday mornings, during the service, to share this wisdom with the younger ones while teaching Children's Church.
Those interested in joining us, please contact Christi Lewis, Phone: 720-0072, E-mail: christ4christ@sbcglobal.net
Adult Ensemble Music Meeting
On Sunday, September 20th there will be an Adult Ensemble rehearsal and music planning meeting in the sanctuary at 11:30. Anyone interested in sharing their gift of music with the congregation, please make plans to be at this meeting and bring your calendars. We will be planning special music for at least the month of October. Starting in October, we are hoping that the Adult Ensemble can rehearse and play on the first Sunday of every month and share in the worship service the second Sunday of the month. If you have questions or are unable to attend the meeting, please talk to Holly Robinson or Pastor Jim.
Small Group
The Small Group Bible Study will begin meeting on Thursday, September 17th, 2:15 pm, at the Klugs. This group meets every other week. We are currently studying the letter of 1 John. Please join us!
Unite For Life Banquet
Individuals from pro-life organizations and churches are invited to come together for one life changing event – to equip and empower the pro-life community and provide them with information on alternatives to abortion. The banquet is Thursday, September 24th, beginning with a reception at 5:30 pm, and dinner and program from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm, at the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel. Tickets are $5.00. Please R.S.V.P. to Pastor Jim by September 7th.
Tree Farm Potluck
Join us on Sunday, September 20th, at 11:45 am, for a Tree Farm Potluck. Enjoy the conversation and the food, and hear updates of what has happened at the Tree Farm this summer. (Please bring some food to share.)
Wanted!! People Who Like To Camp!
The Tree Farm has room for you! When: Labor Day Weekend!
If you have never camped at the Tree Farm or you are a regular camper at the Tree Farm, campsites are available. Contact the Mentinks to reserve your site! dmentink@centurytel.net or phone 920 787-3455. We are looking forward to seeing you there!
If you have never camped at the Tree Farm or you are a regular camper at the Tree Farm, campsites are available. Contact the Mentinks to reserve your site! dmentink@centurytel.net or phone 920 787-3455. We are looking forward to seeing you there!
Volunteer Opportunity
Affinity Visiting Nurses Hospice is in need of volunteers for the following opportunities:
· Hospice Patient Volunteer. Volunteers are needed to sit with patients and provide
· Hospice Patient Volunteer. Volunteers are needed to sit with patients and provide
companionship, help the caregivers and offer emotional support to patients and families.
· Community Outreach Team. Volunteers are needed to sit on a committee to implement,
· Community Outreach Team. Volunteers are needed to sit on a committee to implement,
design and execute community events and awareness of hospice. Plan annual fundraiser
events to help offset costs to patients, represent hospice and help with marketing/PR.
Monthly meetings.
· Clerical Support. Volunteers are needed to assist with clerical duties including labeling and
· Clerical Support. Volunteers are needed to assist with clerical duties including labeling and
assembly of mailings, assembly of charts and binders, filing, typing, data entry and shredding
of confidential waste paper.
For more information, please call 727-2000.
For more information, please call 727-2000.
Health Benefits of Going to Church
(from the Samaritan Counseling Center)
Dr. David Elkins of the American Psychology Association has noted:
· The mortality rate for men who attend church is 25% lower than those who don’t. For women it is 35%.
· Hip-fracture patients who attend church on a regular basis walk longer distances and have less depression at discharge than those who don’t.
· Patients who depend on their faith for strength are three times more likely to survive open-heart surgery.
· Because people who attend church are about 10 times less likely to smoke, they suffer markedly lower rates of coronary artery disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than others.
· In general people who attend church have stronger immune systems than those who don’t which contribute to their overall better health.
· Religious patients spend half as long per stay in the hospital as nonreligious patients.
· People with strong religious faith recover from depression 70% faster than those without a strong religious faith.
· When asked what was the most important factor in helping to cope with illness and recovery 42% of hospitalized patients cited their religious faith.
· The Alameda County Study, which followed nearly 7,000 people, showed that worshipers who participated in regular church-sponsored activities are markedly less stressed over finances, health, and other daily concerns than nonreligious people.
Dr. David Elkins of the American Psychology Association has noted:
· The mortality rate for men who attend church is 25% lower than those who don’t. For women it is 35%.
· Hip-fracture patients who attend church on a regular basis walk longer distances and have less depression at discharge than those who don’t.
· Patients who depend on their faith for strength are three times more likely to survive open-heart surgery.
· Because people who attend church are about 10 times less likely to smoke, they suffer markedly lower rates of coronary artery disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease than others.
· In general people who attend church have stronger immune systems than those who don’t which contribute to their overall better health.
· Religious patients spend half as long per stay in the hospital as nonreligious patients.
· People with strong religious faith recover from depression 70% faster than those without a strong religious faith.
· When asked what was the most important factor in helping to cope with illness and recovery 42% of hospitalized patients cited their religious faith.
· The Alameda County Study, which followed nearly 7,000 people, showed that worshipers who participated in regular church-sponsored activities are markedly less stressed over finances, health, and other daily concerns than nonreligious people.
Wedding Anniversaries
7 Craig and Jenny Hoehne
9 Troy and Kristin Fisher
13 Alan and Julie Delikowski
16 Bob and Becky Luebker
9 Troy and Kristin Fisher
13 Alan and Julie Delikowski
16 Bob and Becky Luebker
Birthdays
5 Mike Woods
5 Jack Zoglman
9 Jodi Isom
10 Jacob Wolfe-Thorpe
14 Madyson Wasbelton
15 Scott Lewis
19 Rosemary Buelow
21 John Bowers
21 Nicolas Brazee
22 Diana DeBroux
22 Kristin Hoehne
24 Bob Luebker
24 Hsar Blut Moo
25 Beverly Strong
26 Mark Bachorz
29 Sasha Piunti
Thursday, July 30, 2009
August 2009 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
Vacation Bible School is here! The planning for VBS has been going on since last winter. We have wonderful volunteers ready to serve the kids that will be coming, craft supplies have been purchased, a supper menu for Sunday night and a snack menu for all five nights of VBS have been set. Fun and exciting games have been planned, toe-tapping and hand-clapping music has been chosen, Bible exploration has been prepared, opening and closing exercises are waiting to be unveiled, and Chadder will help the kids know about Jesus in his special timid way. We’re ready! All we need now is for the kids to show up and bring a spirit of openness to what they learn.
Of course, what we hope they learn is how much Jesus loves them and how Jesus wants to be a part of their lives. That’s the basic, fundamental message of VBS. To be sure, this year’s theme, “Crocodile Dock – Where Fearless Kids Shine God’s Light” is filled with many fun activities – the kids won’t be able to help but have a great time. By the end of the week they will have many “gifts” to take home and many songs floating around in their heads and plenty of memories of having a great time at Whiting Community Baptist Church. And all of this we are extremely glad about.
But make no mistake about it – our primary goal is that they will hear about Jesus and see the love of Jesus through all of us. VBS is about making Jesus known to the kids. That is our mission. That is our hope.
To be honest, we don’t always know what our kids really hold onto in their hearts concerning Jesus when they leave here. Sometimes our leaders hear great questions from our kids that tell us they are hearing our message. And that gladdens our hearts. But whatever our kids are learning, whether it is making sense to them now, or will encourage them sometime later in life, we’re glad for. And we thank God for the opportunity to share Jesus.
The kids who come to our church need Jesus. They need to know how much He loves them. They need to hear the Good Friday story and the Easter Sunday story and what it means for them. Please pray that they will hear these messages.
The messages we will be presenting, and hoping the kids will hear, are the same messages that everyone needs to hear. Your neighbors need to hear the message of God’s love in Christ for them, as does your family and friends. The message of God’s love in Christ is not just for the young; it is for anyone who has never met Jesus and come to know Him. You may know someone like that. If so, God might be calling you to share the Good News of Jesus with that person. And if you did so, the same message we’re sharing in VBS is the message you would be sharing with that person. Again, it’s a message that everyone needs to hear.
Your faith is precious to you. Don’t be afraid to share it. It’s your hope. Help to make it someone’s hope as well.
Peace,
Pastor Jim
Special VBS Activities
Please join us for these special Vacation Bible School Activities that everyone is invited to:
· Saturday, August 1st, 1:00 pm, VBS set-up
· Sunday, August 2nd, 5:00 pm, VBS Kick-off dinner
· Thursday, August 6th, 7:45 pm closing program
· Come each evening of VBS (August 2 – 6) to see what’s going on. VBS meets from 6 pm to 8:15 pm.
· Saturday, August 1st, 1:00 pm, VBS set-up
· Sunday, August 2nd, 5:00 pm, VBS Kick-off dinner
· Thursday, August 6th, 7:45 pm closing program
· Come each evening of VBS (August 2 – 6) to see what’s going on. VBS meets from 6 pm to 8:15 pm.
American Baptist International Ministries
More than a third of our world’s 6.6 billion people struggle for the basic necessities of life – food, water, shelter, clothing – on less than $2 a day. Poor people around the world work and want to work. But they need help to adequately meet their families’ needs. We believe it is not enough solely to give people necessities like food and water. We must also help them provide those basic needs for themselves.
Through our missionaries, global consultants and development workers, we are providing basic education and vocational training so people can build economic independence. We are helping people grow better crops and acquire good strains of cows, sheep and other animals to feed their families and generate income. And we are helping communities tap that most precious physical resource needed for life – water.
We do not work alone but in partnership with local people, who are uniquely able to identify needs, guide culturally appropriate responses, and provide local accountability.
All of our missionaries, global consultants and development workers share the good news of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs. Some focus on the ministry of creating economic opportunity and building futures.
One illustration of this is Scott and Tan Coates, who are missionaries of International Ministries and Mission to Unreached Peoples. From their home in Chiang Rai, Thailand, they engage in holistic leadership development ministries among the minority peoples that inhabit the hills of Northern Thailand and neighboring countries.
A second illustration is Chuck and Ruth Fox, who minister in economic development as well as evangelism, pastoral care, leadership development and women’s ministries. Through their work with approximately 75,000 Akha hilltribe people in Northern Thailand, there has been an increase of self-sufficiency programs involving pig-raising, handicraft development, and crops. In a land where opium trade is a constant reality, three villages have embraced the planting of coffee. Another source of income has developed from the Akha Craft program, which even includes an Internet store, which you will want to visit, http://akhahilltribe.org
Our American Baptist Missionaries are dedicated to sharing the Good News of Jesus in many different ways. Thanks for your support of them.
Through our missionaries, global consultants and development workers, we are providing basic education and vocational training so people can build economic independence. We are helping people grow better crops and acquire good strains of cows, sheep and other animals to feed their families and generate income. And we are helping communities tap that most precious physical resource needed for life – water.
We do not work alone but in partnership with local people, who are uniquely able to identify needs, guide culturally appropriate responses, and provide local accountability.
All of our missionaries, global consultants and development workers share the good news of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs. Some focus on the ministry of creating economic opportunity and building futures.
One illustration of this is Scott and Tan Coates, who are missionaries of International Ministries and Mission to Unreached Peoples. From their home in Chiang Rai, Thailand, they engage in holistic leadership development ministries among the minority peoples that inhabit the hills of Northern Thailand and neighboring countries.
A second illustration is Chuck and Ruth Fox, who minister in economic development as well as evangelism, pastoral care, leadership development and women’s ministries. Through their work with approximately 75,000 Akha hilltribe people in Northern Thailand, there has been an increase of self-sufficiency programs involving pig-raising, handicraft development, and crops. In a land where opium trade is a constant reality, three villages have embraced the planting of coffee. Another source of income has developed from the Akha Craft program, which even includes an Internet store, which you will want to visit, http://akhahilltribe.org
Our American Baptist Missionaries are dedicated to sharing the Good News of Jesus in many different ways. Thanks for your support of them.
Going Round-A-Bout Road Construction?
Do you know what a “local traffic only” sign means? Do you have an alternate way to get home? To work? To your favorite restaurant? Do you know how to navigate a round a bout? “Going Round-A-Bout Road Construction?” is a program being offered by Kim Rudat from the DOT. It’s about the current road construction issues facing drivers and walkers today. Come and learn how to get around in the world of construction and round-a-bouts on Thursday, August 6, at 10 am at the Menasha Senior Center, 116 Main St., Menasha. This is a free event and open to the public.
Puppet Ministry Training (for Youth and Adults)
One Way Street, a prominent name in puppet ministry, is holding a one day workshop for all who are interested in training for puppet ministry. “SummerFest” will be held on Saturday, August 22nd, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Salvation Army, 1525 Appleton Rd in Menasha. The cost is normally $26. However, scholarship funds are available to the first six people. If you are interested in attending, register with Denise Schmitz no later than August 6th.
International Student Hosting
Fox Valley Technical College currently has about 25 international scholarship students living with host families in the area and attending college. These international scholarship students come from all parts of the world, and a portion of their scholarship requires them to live with host families for the first year of their studies in America.
FVTC has 35 new international students arriving in August for the academic year and are needing homes for them when they arrive. Students will be arriving from Central America, Mexico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Japan, Switzerland, France and South Korea. At this time there is still a need to place students from the countries you see in bold.
If you would like more information about hosting an international student, and the benefits you could experience, contact Aaron Gorenc at 735-4728, or email him at gorenc@fvtc.edu
FVTC has 35 new international students arriving in August for the academic year and are needing homes for them when they arrive. Students will be arriving from Central America, Mexico, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Japan, Switzerland, France and South Korea. At this time there is still a need to place students from the countries you see in bold.
If you would like more information about hosting an international student, and the benefits you could experience, contact Aaron Gorenc at 735-4728, or email him at gorenc@fvtc.edu
Pastor Jim at the Academy
Pastor Jim will participating in the Academy for Spiritual Formation from August 11 through August 16. For pastoral assistance, Pastor Jim can be reached on his cell phone at 920-450-7680.
Summer Worship Specials
Our worship is always special, but there are a couple of events that will add a very special touch to our worship experiences in August. On Sunday, August 23rd, Amanda Isom will be sharing her experiences of Africa with us. And on August 30th, Kaylee Isom , Abbey Lewis and Jeanne Grable will be baptized.
Church Finances
As of the end of June, we are in the red, (or in the negative), $4,556. For the first 6 months of the year, we have had two positive months in the black, and four months that have been in the red, including May and June. This is a concern. Please pray for our church as we struggle during these difficult economic times.
Congregational Meeting
On Sunday, August 9th, following worship, we will hold a Congregational Meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the Ministry Council’s recommendations of membership for the following prospective members: Jack and Becky Zoglman, Jeanne Grable, Abbey Lewis and Kaylee Isom.
Down Memory Lane
You’re showing your age if you remember . . .
· Metal ice cube trays with levers
· Roller-skate keys
· Drive-in movies
· Topo Gigio
· The Fuller Brush Man
· 15-cent McDonald’s hamburgers
· 5-cent packs of baseball cards
· Jiffy Pop popcorn
· Green stamps
· Burma Shave signs
· Brownie camera or flash bulbsTimmy and Lassie
· Metal ice cube trays with levers
· Roller-skate keys
· Drive-in movies
· Topo Gigio
· The Fuller Brush Man
· 15-cent McDonald’s hamburgers
· 5-cent packs of baseball cards
· Jiffy Pop popcorn
· Green stamps
· Burma Shave signs
· Brownie camera or flash bulbsTimmy and Lassie
Thursday, June 18, 2009
July 2009 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
Brett Farve is in the news again. Or should I say that he continues to be in the news. I guess it’s a matter of perspective. At any rate, his on-again, off-again, on-again decision to play football for the Minnesota Vikings (of all teams!), or to retire, is in the news. Perhaps by time you read this you and I will know if he will indeed be playing for the Vikings this Fall. Or perhaps we will still be wondering if he will play or stay retired – after all, this is Brett Farve we’re talking about.
Some of you may know from first-hand experiences about on-again, off-again relationships. Maybe you have an on-again, off-again relationship with a friend. Sometimes things are going just great between you and your friend, and other times things cool down considerably between the two of you and you may not see or talk with each other for weeks or months.
Do you ever find yourself in an on-again, off-again relationship with God? There are those times when you are gung-ho in your faith. You really enjoy talking with God, worship is a priority, and you couldn’t be happier in your relationship with Him. On the other hand there may be those times when you could care less about talking to God, you don’t desire to take part in worship, and you would rather not even have God bother you. In fact, God becomes “out of sight, out of mind.”
One of the great challenges we face as Christians is to continue to be deeply connected to God. We shouldn’t be surprised at this for all relationships go through ups and downs. It may be difficult to remain passionate about the person we’re married to. It may be difficult to keep a friendship at a level of caring that first seemed to come so easy. And it is challenging to keep focused on God, maintain a deep prayer life, worship God regularly, and keep growing in that relationship with God. It is challenging – but not impossible.
All relationships require effort – including our relationship with God. Sometimes our relationship doesn’t require a lot of effort, but then there are those times that it does. If you are in one of those times where your relationship with God is more “off-again” than on-again, take steps to get back “on.” Maybe it would be helpful to speak to a fellow brother or sister in Christ about the challenges of staying deeply connected to God. Another possibility is just admitting to God that right now you are far away from Him and aren’t even sure if you care. Honesty is something God can handle.
Having a deep and personal relationship with God is so crucial to our spiritual well-being. To be sure, there are those times when it is difficult to feel connected to God. Work, family, extra-curricular activities – even the best things in life can lead us to an “off-again” relationship with God. However, let us strive to get back “on-again” with our relationship with God. It is only in that relationship that we find true peace and joy.
God Bless,Pastor Jim
Brett Farve is in the news again. Or should I say that he continues to be in the news. I guess it’s a matter of perspective. At any rate, his on-again, off-again, on-again decision to play football for the Minnesota Vikings (of all teams!), or to retire, is in the news. Perhaps by time you read this you and I will know if he will indeed be playing for the Vikings this Fall. Or perhaps we will still be wondering if he will play or stay retired – after all, this is Brett Farve we’re talking about.
Some of you may know from first-hand experiences about on-again, off-again relationships. Maybe you have an on-again, off-again relationship with a friend. Sometimes things are going just great between you and your friend, and other times things cool down considerably between the two of you and you may not see or talk with each other for weeks or months.
Do you ever find yourself in an on-again, off-again relationship with God? There are those times when you are gung-ho in your faith. You really enjoy talking with God, worship is a priority, and you couldn’t be happier in your relationship with Him. On the other hand there may be those times when you could care less about talking to God, you don’t desire to take part in worship, and you would rather not even have God bother you. In fact, God becomes “out of sight, out of mind.”
One of the great challenges we face as Christians is to continue to be deeply connected to God. We shouldn’t be surprised at this for all relationships go through ups and downs. It may be difficult to remain passionate about the person we’re married to. It may be difficult to keep a friendship at a level of caring that first seemed to come so easy. And it is challenging to keep focused on God, maintain a deep prayer life, worship God regularly, and keep growing in that relationship with God. It is challenging – but not impossible.
All relationships require effort – including our relationship with God. Sometimes our relationship doesn’t require a lot of effort, but then there are those times that it does. If you are in one of those times where your relationship with God is more “off-again” than on-again, take steps to get back “on.” Maybe it would be helpful to speak to a fellow brother or sister in Christ about the challenges of staying deeply connected to God. Another possibility is just admitting to God that right now you are far away from Him and aren’t even sure if you care. Honesty is something God can handle.
Having a deep and personal relationship with God is so crucial to our spiritual well-being. To be sure, there are those times when it is difficult to feel connected to God. Work, family, extra-curricular activities – even the best things in life can lead us to an “off-again” relationship with God. However, let us strive to get back “on-again” with our relationship with God. It is only in that relationship that we find true peace and joy.
God Bless,Pastor Jim
International Missions
(A letter from David and Betsy Perkins, ABC Missionaries to India.)
In November of last year we wrote a journal on the acts of violence against Christians in the Indian state of Orissa. I had met with a couple of the leaders from the Baptist churches in that area, listening to them share their experiences and stories of their people. Since then Betsy and I have retold their stories as we have visited churches here in the US, even though they were difficult to hear and comprehend. We have had you to join with us in prayer, in hopes that by means of your prayers to our Heavenly Father, our brothers and sisters in Christ in Orissa would be set free from the persecution they have been experiencing.
God has heard the prayers of the faithful. We received an email this week (mid-May) from Mr. Ramesh, one of our colleagues from Orissa, sharing a message of good news. He writes:
“Dear Brothers and Sisters,
…We hope that there is an end for all the violence as the (political party that had been in power), a Hindu fundamentalist group, has been totally rooted out in the recent elections in Orissa, and the Naveen Patnaik party is emerging as the single largest party to form the government. We hope and trust in God that we will no longer have the communal violence in Kandhamal, (Orissa). Thank you so much for all your prayers and that your prayers were answered by the almighty God. However, please continue to pray for Orissa and pray for (the oppressors). . . Once again thank you so much for your prayers all these days.”
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he reports to them his experience with persecution, but adds, “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel” (Phil.1:12). We have heard similar messages of hope from believers in Orissa. In some villages where aid has been distributed and relief workers have visited, some of the Hindu families have watched the peaceful and loving response of Christians to each other and to their tormentors. They have asked for Bibles to learn more about Jesus. Join us in continuing to pray that the new leaders in the state of Orissa will do their part in ensuring the protection of all of God’s people there, including those who have made the decision to follow Jesus, even in the difficult times. We pray that more will come to know Jesus in Orissa, but that they will be saved the suffering of this past year. Thank you!
In November of last year we wrote a journal on the acts of violence against Christians in the Indian state of Orissa. I had met with a couple of the leaders from the Baptist churches in that area, listening to them share their experiences and stories of their people. Since then Betsy and I have retold their stories as we have visited churches here in the US, even though they were difficult to hear and comprehend. We have had you to join with us in prayer, in hopes that by means of your prayers to our Heavenly Father, our brothers and sisters in Christ in Orissa would be set free from the persecution they have been experiencing.
God has heard the prayers of the faithful. We received an email this week (mid-May) from Mr. Ramesh, one of our colleagues from Orissa, sharing a message of good news. He writes:
“Dear Brothers and Sisters,
…We hope that there is an end for all the violence as the (political party that had been in power), a Hindu fundamentalist group, has been totally rooted out in the recent elections in Orissa, and the Naveen Patnaik party is emerging as the single largest party to form the government. We hope and trust in God that we will no longer have the communal violence in Kandhamal, (Orissa). Thank you so much for all your prayers and that your prayers were answered by the almighty God. However, please continue to pray for Orissa and pray for (the oppressors). . . Once again thank you so much for your prayers all these days.”
In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he reports to them his experience with persecution, but adds, “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel” (Phil.1:12). We have heard similar messages of hope from believers in Orissa. In some villages where aid has been distributed and relief workers have visited, some of the Hindu families have watched the peaceful and loving response of Christians to each other and to their tormentors. They have asked for Bibles to learn more about Jesus. Join us in continuing to pray that the new leaders in the state of Orissa will do their part in ensuring the protection of all of God’s people there, including those who have made the decision to follow Jesus, even in the difficult times. We pray that more will come to know Jesus in Orissa, but that they will be saved the suffering of this past year. Thank you!
Local Mission Opportunity
The Community Clothes Closet provides clothes to people in need on a referral basis, free of charge! One of their special programs is Being Cool for School. This special event provides new clothes and school supplies for more than 700 school-age children. The Community Clothes Closet is looking for donations to help out with this year’s event. If you would like to help, please see Pastor Jim. (More information is available on the hallway bulletin board.)
"Hands-On" Mission Opportunities
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church has a couple of “hands-on” mission opportunities this summer, and they are open to any and all who would like to join their mission work groups. One opportunity is in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, from July 17-26, where flood recovery work and rebuilding tasks are the work projects. A second opportunity is in Fargo, ND, August 5-9, and is also related to flood clean up and possibly some rebuilding. Details are available on a large yellow postcard, posted on the hallway bulletin board.
Fun Camping Facts (from Bouwer Printing)
If you’re heading into the great outdoors, here are a few tips to make your experience a bit more enjoyable.
· When using a public campground, a tuba placed on your picnic table will keep the campsites on either side vacant.
· While the Swiss Army Knife has been popular for years, its cousin the Swiss Navy Knife, has remained largely unheralded. Its single blade functions as a tiny canoe paddle.
· You can duplicate the warmth of a down-filled bedroll by climbing into a plastic bag filled with several geese.
· Take this simple test to see if you qualify for solo camping: Shine a flashlight into one ear. If the beam shines out the other ear, do not go into the woods alone.
· A two-man pup tent does not include two men or a pup.
· A potato baked in the coals for one hour makes an excellent side dish. A potato baked in the coals for three hours makes an excellent hockey puck.
· The sight of a bald eagle has thrilled campers for generations. The sight of a bald man, however, does absolutely nothing for the eagle.
· Bear bells provide an element of safety for hikers in grizzly country. The tricky part is getting them on the bears.
· When using a public campground, a tuba placed on your picnic table will keep the campsites on either side vacant.
· While the Swiss Army Knife has been popular for years, its cousin the Swiss Navy Knife, has remained largely unheralded. Its single blade functions as a tiny canoe paddle.
· You can duplicate the warmth of a down-filled bedroll by climbing into a plastic bag filled with several geese.
· Take this simple test to see if you qualify for solo camping: Shine a flashlight into one ear. If the beam shines out the other ear, do not go into the woods alone.
· A two-man pup tent does not include two men or a pup.
· A potato baked in the coals for one hour makes an excellent side dish. A potato baked in the coals for three hours makes an excellent hockey puck.
· The sight of a bald eagle has thrilled campers for generations. The sight of a bald man, however, does absolutely nothing for the eagle.
· Bear bells provide an element of safety for hikers in grizzly country. The tricky part is getting them on the bears.
Vacation Bible School Update
You love Vacation Bible School, right?! You love watching kids’ faces light up as they worship. You love playing wacky games, eating yummy snacks, and making cute crafts! You love hearing your favorite Bible stories in an exciting way. Well, Crocodile Dock is only one month away! VBS starts on Sunday, August 2nd. (Pick up a flyer on the VBS table.)
Some people have been in the planning process since last August, but there is still much to do during this last month prior to VBS.
· If you want to volunteer in some way, talk to Denise
· If you want to order a T-shirt, sign up by July 9th.
· Volunteer to bring needed items. (sign up at the VBS table.)
· Tell your neighbors, friends, relatives about Crocodile Dock. (And don’t forget to register your own kids!)
· The final planning team meeting will be Monday, July 20th, at 6:30 pm.
· An orientation meeting for ALL volunteers will be Tuesday, July 28th at 6:30 pm.
· Pray for all our volunteers and the kids!
August 2 – 6 will be an exciting week at Whiting! Don’t miss out.
Some people have been in the planning process since last August, but there is still much to do during this last month prior to VBS.
· If you want to volunteer in some way, talk to Denise
· If you want to order a T-shirt, sign up by July 9th.
· Volunteer to bring needed items. (sign up at the VBS table.)
· Tell your neighbors, friends, relatives about Crocodile Dock. (And don’t forget to register your own kids!)
· The final planning team meeting will be Monday, July 20th, at 6:30 pm.
· An orientation meeting for ALL volunteers will be Tuesday, July 28th at 6:30 pm.
· Pray for all our volunteers and the kids!
August 2 – 6 will be an exciting week at Whiting! Don’t miss out.
Campbell Soup Labels (from Shirley Klug)
Thanks to all of you who have been saving Campbell soup labels. I have over 500 points to send to the learning center at Rainbow Acres, an American Baptist home for mentally challenged adults.
Campbell has changed its label program and we no longer send the front panel. Now only select products are eligible and they are the special UPCs marked “1 point and 5 points”. Please cut these out and put in the collection box on the back table. (Make sure you only put in labels with the “point” UPC.s) Thank you
Campbell has changed its label program and we no longer send the front panel. Now only select products are eligible and they are the special UPCs marked “1 point and 5 points”. Please cut these out and put in the collection box on the back table. (Make sure you only put in labels with the “point” UPC.s) Thank you
WE Care
Pick and Save Food Stores has a wonderful way for churches to earn extra cash. If you shop at Pick and Save, ask at the Service Desk for an Advantage Plus Savers Club Card, and sign up our church as your designated donation. And then each time you shop at Pick and Save, have your card scanned. Not only will you receive discounts, but the church receives a cash donation of 1% on all purchases. Through the years we have received an extra $100 more or less each year, and these funds have enabled us to help with some non-budgeted expenses.
College Age Students
Each year a college age ministry, Intervarsity, holds a Student Missions Conference from December 27-31. Urbana 09 is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other Christian college age youth from around the country, and learn of the different ways mission is reaching others for Christ. For more information log onto: www.urbana09.org
Church Finances
As of the end of May, we were short $3,798 of our General Giving goals, and short $830 of our Mission Giving goals. However, on the plus side we had received $1833 in Special Missions monies. Overall, we are short of dollars needed to pay our bills, $3,817, through May.
Tree Farm Brunch
Join us on Sunday, July 12th, following worship, for a Tree Farm Potluck Brunch. Please bring food to share as we enjoy a meal together and discuss updates concerning the Tree Farm. All are invited.
EAA Missionary Housing
This year’s AirVenture at the EAA will emphasize the work of Mission and Humanitarian Aviation. There will be over 250 missionaries who will be coming to the EAA (July 27 – August 2) to participate – this is more than double any previous year. MASA (Mission Aviation Support Association) is looking for help with housing and transportation (as early as July 24 for some.) if you have an extra bedroom (s), and/or a car you can lend for the week, please contact Anita Holdridge at 920-948-3928 or holdridge@fastbytes.com. (Denise and I hosted a missionary couple last year and were greatly blessed! We look forward to hosting again this year.)
If you go to the EAA during AirVenture, be sure to check out the Fly4Life display on Aero Shell Square. It will tell the history of mission aviation, what’s happening now and how people can get involved. Over 30 individual mission organizations will have displays throughout the AirVenture grounds.
Looking Ahead
Saturday, August 1st 10:30 am, Community Table
Sunday, August 2nd 9:00 am, Worship
5:00 pm, VBS Kickoff Dinner
6:00 pm, VBS begins!
Sunday, August 2nd 9:00 am, Worship
5:00 pm, VBS Kickoff Dinner
6:00 pm, VBS begins!
Friday, May 29, 2009
June 2009 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
We’re going on a treasure hunt!
We won’t be digging holes around the church searching for buried gold, though. Instead, we’re searching for God’s treasure.
Scripture provides the map. For God, we are treasure: “You are children of the Lord your God…It is you the Lord has chosen…to be His people, His treasured possession” (Deuteronomy 14:1-2). Although those words were spoken long ago to people in another part of the world, Galatians 3:26 assures us that we are included, too: “For in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.”
One of the gifts of being God’s children is that sometimes we are called to be “treasure tenders” for God. We tend God’s treasure here in our congregation with the love and care we show each other through special meals, visiting the sick and shut-in, teaching Christian discipleship, and praying for each other. We are also invited to tend God’s treasures beyond our congregation by participating in One Great Hour of Sharing.
Life can be tough at times. Hurricanes, earthquakes, cyclones, and tsunamis destroy communities. Wars and ethnic conflicts shatter the very foundation of life, shoving people out of their homes and transforming them into frightened refugees. Persistent hunger, drought, poverty, lack of education, and illness shrivel the life and dry the spirit, leaving individuals to crumble from the inside out.
Through One Great Hour of Sharing, we care for God’s treasures. By sharing some of our earthly treasure – our money, our time, our energy – aid is sent when disaster strikes. Refugees receive help in the long term as they rebuild their lives. People receive education, health care, tools, seeds, and resources to improve their communities.
And the sharing is mutual. When we care for people, we can be transformed by experiencing the presence of God. Seeing what others have lost, we are reminded what matters most in life. Seeing what others live through, we are inspired to live courageously. Seeing that new life is possible, our hope rises. Working with others, we realize that God reaches out to all of us. Relying on God for the outcome, our faith increases.
First Timothy 6:18-19a exhorts us “to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up…the treasure of a good foundation for the future.” Our treasure is doing God’s will. Loving God, and loving God’s treasured people, so we all “may take hold of the life that really is life” (1 Timothy 6:19b). Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). May you find your treasure, and your heart, by sharing resources and changing lives with a generous gift to One Great Hour of Sharing. (Envelopes are available on the back table.)
Sincerely,
Pastor Jim
We’re going on a treasure hunt!
We won’t be digging holes around the church searching for buried gold, though. Instead, we’re searching for God’s treasure.
Scripture provides the map. For God, we are treasure: “You are children of the Lord your God…It is you the Lord has chosen…to be His people, His treasured possession” (Deuteronomy 14:1-2). Although those words were spoken long ago to people in another part of the world, Galatians 3:26 assures us that we are included, too: “For in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.”
One of the gifts of being God’s children is that sometimes we are called to be “treasure tenders” for God. We tend God’s treasure here in our congregation with the love and care we show each other through special meals, visiting the sick and shut-in, teaching Christian discipleship, and praying for each other. We are also invited to tend God’s treasures beyond our congregation by participating in One Great Hour of Sharing.
Life can be tough at times. Hurricanes, earthquakes, cyclones, and tsunamis destroy communities. Wars and ethnic conflicts shatter the very foundation of life, shoving people out of their homes and transforming them into frightened refugees. Persistent hunger, drought, poverty, lack of education, and illness shrivel the life and dry the spirit, leaving individuals to crumble from the inside out.
Through One Great Hour of Sharing, we care for God’s treasures. By sharing some of our earthly treasure – our money, our time, our energy – aid is sent when disaster strikes. Refugees receive help in the long term as they rebuild their lives. People receive education, health care, tools, seeds, and resources to improve their communities.
And the sharing is mutual. When we care for people, we can be transformed by experiencing the presence of God. Seeing what others have lost, we are reminded what matters most in life. Seeing what others live through, we are inspired to live courageously. Seeing that new life is possible, our hope rises. Working with others, we realize that God reaches out to all of us. Relying on God for the outcome, our faith increases.
First Timothy 6:18-19a exhorts us “to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up…the treasure of a good foundation for the future.” Our treasure is doing God’s will. Loving God, and loving God’s treasured people, so we all “may take hold of the life that really is life” (1 Timothy 6:19b). Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). May you find your treasure, and your heart, by sharing resources and changing lives with a generous gift to One Great Hour of Sharing. (Envelopes are available on the back table.)
Sincerely,
Pastor Jim
OGHS Project Descriptions
Here are several of the ways in which One Great Hour of Sharing funds will be used this year.
$60,000 is designated for the Resettlement of Refugees here in the U.S. Refugees from Burma are one of the major groups this fund will help as we respond to the refugees, displaced from their home land, who require assistance as they resettle in our country.
$12,000 is designated for Food Security for Refugee Communities in the Republic of Congo. For Rwandan refugees who fled the 1994 genocide in their own country, life in the Republic of Congo continues to be difficult. The land given to refugee communities is limited and not fertile. And to complicate the situation even more, a disease that attacks the cassava plant – a staple of the diet – has devastated fields. A grant from the OGHS will provide seeds and tools along with goats to help families.
$10,000 is designated for a Dormitory and Training Center for Freed Slaves in Ghana. Young girls in Ghana are sometimes forced to become slaves, which meals for them a life sentence of sexual abuse and forced servitude. The ABC of Massachusetts is working with the Ghana Baptist Convention to free these young girls. The Training Center will be a haven of healing and one of preparation for the training needed to enhance their chosen skills and to enable these young girls to begin life anew outside of the center.
$25,000 is designated for a Micro-Credit Lending Program in Egypt. In a country where poverty is a very serious concern and children are sometimes exploited for their labor, seventy-seven families will be given an average loan of $325 to start a small business or revive a struggling existing business. The loans will be repaid and the proceeds lent to another family within the community. With this support, the financial burden of the family will be lifted, and the children will be able to return to school.
$60,000 is designated for the Resettlement of Refugees here in the U.S. Refugees from Burma are one of the major groups this fund will help as we respond to the refugees, displaced from their home land, who require assistance as they resettle in our country.
$12,000 is designated for Food Security for Refugee Communities in the Republic of Congo. For Rwandan refugees who fled the 1994 genocide in their own country, life in the Republic of Congo continues to be difficult. The land given to refugee communities is limited and not fertile. And to complicate the situation even more, a disease that attacks the cassava plant – a staple of the diet – has devastated fields. A grant from the OGHS will provide seeds and tools along with goats to help families.
$10,000 is designated for a Dormitory and Training Center for Freed Slaves in Ghana. Young girls in Ghana are sometimes forced to become slaves, which meals for them a life sentence of sexual abuse and forced servitude. The ABC of Massachusetts is working with the Ghana Baptist Convention to free these young girls. The Training Center will be a haven of healing and one of preparation for the training needed to enhance their chosen skills and to enable these young girls to begin life anew outside of the center.
$25,000 is designated for a Micro-Credit Lending Program in Egypt. In a country where poverty is a very serious concern and children are sometimes exploited for their labor, seventy-seven families will be given an average loan of $325 to start a small business or revive a struggling existing business. The loans will be repaid and the proceeds lent to another family within the community. With this support, the financial burden of the family will be lifted, and the children will be able to return to school.
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