SEPTEMBER 2017 | www.fbcgso.org | 336.274.3286
Baptism at the Lake Sunday, September 10 4-7 pm | Camp Weaver
first baptist church greensboro
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Emphasizing worship, spiritual development, fellowship, and ministry to our city and our world.
Fall Kicks Off THIS MONTH @ FBC
Enjoy a harvest of ministry and growth opportunities for:
CHILDREN • YOUTH COLLEGE • SENIORS ADULTS • MISSIONS WORSHIP
Wednesday Night Meals Start Back on September 6
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www.fbcgso.org | 336.274.3286 1000 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401
September 2017 3 Window Gazing 4 Baptism and BBQ at the Lake
October Connections Deadline: September 15 Email news to gloria@fbcgso.org or bring it to the church office.
5 Celebrating Rev. Steve Cothran 6 FBC’s New Pastoral Resident, Rev. Darnysha Nard
Rosemary Kellam, Production Editor Operations Director rosemary@fbcgso.org / x225
7-11 Fall at First Baptist –Regular Weekly Schedule | Music/Worship Ministry Children’s Ministry | Youth Ministry | College Ministry Adult Ministry | Senior Ministry | Missions at FBC | Recreation
Gloria Koster, Managing Editor/Designer Administrative Assistant: Learning gloria@fbcgso.org / x288
12 Connect with Ministry Partners –Job Posting at Hope Academy | Peacehaven Community Farm
Steve Sumerel, Supervising Editor Associate Pastor: Adult Learning steves@fbcgso.org / x233 Teresa Allen, Media Library Director teresaa@fbcgso.org / x229 Jane Anne Hayber, Administrative Assistant: Music and Worship / janeanne@fbcgso.org / x239 Amy Grizzle Kane, Associate Pastor: Missions and Community / x295 Marty Kellam, Food Services Director marty@fbcgso.org / x245 Amy Kirkman, Weekday School Director amy@fbcgso.org / x240 Christina McCord, Minister to Children and Families christina@fbcgso.org / x241 Darnysha Nard, Pastoral Resident darnysha@fbcgso.org Scott North, Church Administrator scott@fbcgso.org / x226 Sarah Parker, Interim Youth Minister sarah@fbcgso.org / x235 Steve Pressley, Associate Pastor stevep@fbcgso.org / x232 Larry Putnam, Financial Assistant larry@fbcgso.org / x222 Alan Sherouse, Senior Pastor pastor@fbcgso.org / x231 Courtney Stamey, Pastoral Resident courtney@fbcgso.org / x223 Tommy Starnes, Recreation Director tstarnes@triad.rr.com / x251 Doug Vancil, Associate Pastor: Music and Worship doug@fbcgso.org / x237 Terri Vancil, Assistant Pastor: Music and Worship terri@fbcgso.org / x238 2 | Connections
13 Connect with Children –Thank You FBC Kids and Families for a Great Summer! –Mom’s Group Connect with the Weekday School –Upcoming Events | Link Your HT VIC Card 14-15 Connect with Youth –Meet Sarah Parker | Middle School Fall Retreat –Memories of FBC Youth Ministry Fun this Year 15 Connect with College –Sundays at First Baptist Church | “First Families” –College Birthdays | Upcoming Events 16 Reflections –Summer Youth Intern Reflections by Will Raybon 17-19 Connect with Adults –Adult Access Classes | PrimeTime 2017-18 Bible Study –YWCA Family Shelter | Introduction to the Life Compass Plan –Stay Connected with FBC 20 Connect with Business –Giving at FBC Greensboro | Standing Committees Vote –Financial Update 21 Connect with One Another –New Members | Birthdays | New Baby | Bereaved 22 Belong at the Table: Wednesday Nights at FBC September Calendar 23 A Thousand Words…
24 Friends Day Luncheon | FBC Trips Office Hours: 9 am - 5 pm, Monday - Friday Weekends and Holidays: If you have an emergency pastoral care need when the church offices are closed, please leave a message at 338-2438 and someone will return your call.
Window Gazing
By Alan Sherouse
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HANGE EMPHASIZES WHAT IS HAPPENING TO US, while transition is an opportunity for growth.” This is the claim of William Bridges in his 1980 book, Transition: Making Sense of Life’s Changes. His national best-seller aims to demonstrate that while change is always occurring, and often beyond our control, moments of change also provide occasion for the growth that can come in transition. Bridges says that, “Change is situational. Transition, on the other hand is psychological.” As people of faith, we can add that transition is also “theological.” In transition, we trust in the God who makes all things new, and seek how God is calling us to grow in that work ourselves. In our life together as First Baptist Greensboro, we know the faithfulness of God in moments of transition. We are experiencing it anew as September begins, especially as we mark transitions in our staff. These days have many endings, beginnings and moments in-between, and the pages of this newsletter reflect it. As August ended, we celebrated 17 years of ministry with our Associate Pastor for Youth & Families, Steve Cothran. Steve, Nancy and their family are a part of us, and while we do not lose the depth of that relationship, we do mark an ending of Steve’s days as youth minister, staff colleague, retreat leader, Valentine’s Banquet host, bus driver, and favorite office for many a child to visit on the third floor. Our prayers for Steve’s joy and thriving in new opportunities are echoed in our prayers for our church, and especially our youth and their families, amidst this change. As we have honored Steve, we also mark significant moments of beginning. We welcome Amy Grizzle Kane, who this month begins her ministry as our Associate Pastor: Missions & Community Ministry. Many of us had the opportunity this summer to meet Amy, Sean, Aaron and Aiden, and we are thrilled at the expertise Amy brings and the gifts of the whole Kane family. This month, we also welcome a new Pastoral Resident, as Darnysha Nard begins her two years of ministry and learning with us. Darnysha has moved into the Resident House and is eager to meet the congregation in person. Finally, as you’ll see in the newsletter, we’re also happy to welcome Sarah Parker, a student at Wake Forest Divinity School, who will serve as an Interim Youth Minister for us until we call a new Associate Pastor to work with our youth. It’s so important that we mark endings well and greet beginnings with hope and expectation, as God is known to us especially amidst transition. Healthy churches live in transition. The New Testament tells of a movement in constant change. That early church modeled the life of Jesus, who himself was itinerant and adaptable, constantly moving from place to place, engaging people, and responding to the needs of this world as he encountered them. Christ’s Spirit sparked the same life in his followers. In Acts 2, when the Spirit first rushed through Jerusalem with the initial spark of the Christian Church, it found people eager and expectant, out in the city, gathered with all backgrounds, and primed, in the words that Peter echoes from Joel, to “see visions” and “dream dreams”. That’s where we’ll be found too, as the Spirit works in us through all that is new. As William Bridges puts it, “It is when we are in transition that we are most fully alive.” Transition is a sign of life. Even more importantly for us, it can be a sign of our faith — faith in the Creator that is always recreating, the Christ who is always on the move, and the Spirit that renews God’s people through all that comes. Right: Pentecost art by Lesley-Ann Hix Tommey, in celebration of Steve Cothran. September 2017 | 3
BAPTISM AND BBQ AT THE LAKE…an FBC Tradition Sunday, September 10 | Camp Weaver | 4-7 pm
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OME MIGHT SAY the annual Baptism at the Lake is a time when we celebrate the end of summer vacation, but that is only a small part of it. More than anything else, the Baptism at the Lake is a celebration of the fellowship we enjoy together. Baptism at the Lake is the embodiment of fellowship. It is an extended period of time to engage in conversations that last more than a few minutes. It is a time when we enjoy catching up on the families of our church. We come together to enjoy Lee’s barbecue, and the special dishes brought by everyone at the picnic. Recipes and many of the family stories from which they derived flow as freely as the iced tea and lemonade. And we come to enjoy the fellowship of our faith. We participate together as folks join with the minister in the lake for baptism…one of the oldest of our traditions…one of the most significant events in our faith journey…one of the most important acts of bonding a group of believers into a fellowship of faith. This year’s Baptism and BBQ will include the ordination of our new incoming deacons. Baptism at the Lake is more than the food, more than the recreation, more than the ritual or a social event. It is what God intended fellowship to be; the celebration of our commonality and our deep and abiding love and appreciation for one another.
What to Bring: • Side Dishes/Desserts – enough for your family and to share • $2 for BBQ and money to purchase leftover BBQ • Lawn Chairs/Blankets • Bug Spray – just in case • Swimsuit/Towel – if you want to enjoy the lake • Life jacket if you have one – Camp Weaver also provides them • Friends and neighbors
Directions to Camp Weaver: Take East Lee Street until it ends, turn right onto Young’s Mill Road, and make a left onto Mill Point Road. The camp is 3/4 of a mile on the right on Tapawingo Trail. Follow signs to the lake. 4 | Connections
Celebrating the Ministry of Steve Cothran 2001 – 2017
I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil. 1.3-6)
September 2017 | 5
CONNECT WITH THE RESIDENCY PROGRAM
FBC’s Pastoral Residency Program Rev. Darnysha Nard | 2017-2019 Pastoral Resident
F
IRST BAPTIST GREENSBORO is excited to announce Rev. Darnysha Nard as our new Pastoral Resident. Darnysha was selected by our Residency Committee after a comprehensive search through the spring and early summer. She will begin her Residency in September. A graduate of Wake Forest University Divinity School (MDiv ‘17) and Virginia Commonwealth University (BA in English ‘13), Darnysha has a wide range of ministry experience. She has served as a Pastoral Intern at churches including First Baptist Church, Highland Avenue in Winston-Salem and First Baptist Church of Greenville, SC. Darnysha also served as a Chaplain Intern with Wake Forest Baptist University Medical Center as part of her education at Wake Forest. For multiple summers, she has worked with the nationally recognized youth camp ministry, Passport, Inc., including serving as Camp Director for Passport Mission Base in Washington, D.C. in Summer of 2017. DARNYSHA’S MINISTRY AT FIRST BAPTIST will draw on her breadth of experience and passions. As with previous Residents, John Thornton and Courtney Stamey, particular areas of focus will be identified within the first few months of Darnysha’s tenure, with one of her areas of focus being as a compliment and support to First Baptist’s youth ministry. Please pray for Darnysha in this transition, and find ways to welcome her with First Baptist hospitality as her Residency begins! For more about the Pastoral Residency, visit: www.fbcgso.org/pastoral-residency
“There are many times that I have heard people talk and preach about the Kingdom of God as a distant and hopeful place of arrival, but I like to think that there are glimpses of it here on earth. I think the church is one of those glimpses.” —Rev. Darnysha Nard 6 | Connections
FALL AT FIRST BAPTIST On pages 8-11 you will learn more about FBC’s ministries and programs and find out how you can get connected!
Regular Weekly Schedule Sunday AM Bible Study | 9:15 am | Children, Youth & Adults Worship | 10:30 am
Sunday PM Youth Handbells | 4 pm | 319-D/Sanctuary Youth Choir | 5 pm | 311 Adult Bells | 6 pm | Sanctuary Youth Discipleship | 6:20 pm | 301 Sanctuary Choir | 7 pm | 311
Wednesday Evenings Fellowship Meal Reservations Reservations due Mon., 12 noon. Cancellations due Tuesday, 12 noon. Meal reservation? Online: www.fbcgso.org/calendarevents OR Marty Kellam – x245 | marty@fbcgso.org Fellowship Hall | 5:30 pm (serving begins at 5 pm)
Kids’ Access | 6 pm Youth Forum | 6:15 pm Adult Access Classes | 6:15 pm Sanctuary Choir | 7:15 pm, 311
September 2017 | 7
MUSIC/WORSHIP MINISTRY For more information about our Music/Worship ministry, contact Terri and Doug Vancil– Terri: terri@fbcgso.org – x238 and Doug: doug@fbcgso.org – x237
ADULT MUSIC MINISTRY Sanctuary Choir | Sundays, 7 pm and/or Wednesdays, 7:15 pm | Room 311 The anchor of our music ministry, this adult choir sings in the morning worship service on 3rd and 4th Sundays. The Sanctuary Choir also prepares larger works for special seasons of the church year. Two rehearsals are offered each week and choir members may attend one or both rehearsals. Childcare is provided. Directors: Doug and Terri Vancil
Instrumental Ensemble | Sundays, 7 pm (September-May) | Sanctuary For middle school through adult ages, this ensemble plays periodically for worship and during special seasons. All range of instrumentalists are welcome from the symphony player to the school band player, present and former! Adult Handbells | Sundays, 6 pm (September-April) | Sanctuary A group of experienced ringers, rehearses on Sunday evenings at 6 pm, rings often in worship and for special seasonal services. New ringers, especially college age, are always welcome. Director: Terri Vancil
YOUTH MUSIC MINISTRY Youth Choir I and II | Sundays, 5 pm | Room 311 All 6th-12th graders are welcome. Youth Choir I is open to 9th-12th graders and Youth Choir II to 6th-8th graders. During the school year, the youth choir sings together on the 2nd Sunday of the month for worship. Rehearsals for Choir I and II are together and separate. Director: Doug Vancil
Music-Youth Handbells | Sundays, 4 pm | Sanctuary and Room 319 Two handbell choirs, for 6th-12th grades, ring for worship services and special services during the school year. Bell ringers must be active members of Youth Choir. Directors: Terri Vancil, Youth Handbells I (advanced); Doug Vancil, Youth Handbells II (beginner/intermediate).
CHILDREN MUSIC MINISTRY Music for Threes and Fours | Wednesdays (September-May) 6 pm, Early-arriver “Storytime” | 6-6:45 pm, Music Activities: Our youngest children become aware of God’s story through singing games, steady beat activities and movement | 6:45-7:15 pm, Mission Activities and Bible Stories Teacher: Louise Burroughs
Music for Kindergarten and Grade 1 | Wednesdays (September-May) 6 pm, Early-arriver “Storytime” | 6-6:45 pm, Music Activities: Our young school-agers enjoy music and vocal discovery through singing, movement, games and rhythm instruments | 6:45-7:15 p.m. Mission and Discipleship Director: Penny Rowe
Young Musicians Choir for 2nd-5th Grade | Wednesdays, Room 223/225 (September-May) 6 pm, Orff Ensemble | 6:15-6:45 pm, Young Musicians Choir: Advanced musical and vocal development is offered to older children through singing, Orff instruments, ethnic drums, handbell, and movement. This choir sings occasionally for worship and during special seasons of the church year, and periodically presents a children’s musical. 6:45-7:15 pm, Mission Activities and Faith Formation | Director: Terri Vancil
Children’s Handbells | Sundays An introductory children’s handbell class is offered periodically to 4th and 5th graders who sing in the Young Musicians’ Choir. This beginner class prepares children for participation in youth handbell choirs. 8 | Connections
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY For more information about our Children’s ministry, contact Christina McCord – christina@fbcgso.org | x241.
SERVING & VOLUNTEERING IN CHILDREN’S MINISTRY AT FIRST BAPTIST, we are committed to following Jesus’ example by welcoming children into our church family. During a child’s infancy, we covenant with parents to be partners with them in nurturing their child and in helping them grow to know and love Jesus as friend, Savior and Lord. Our varied programs for children are directed toward that end. As we welcome new babies, children, and their families to our church, our ministry to children is growing! With all of this wonderful growth, our volunteer needs are growing as well. From rocking newborn babies to playing with preschoolers, we need your help during the worship hour. Would you consider giving just a few Sundays volunteering in Nursery caring for our youngest children during worship? No matter your age or ability, there is a place for you! We hope you will partner with our growing children’s ministry. We will provide any training and materials. To provide the safest and most secure environment possible, all ministry partners must be approved through FBC’s Policy for Volunteers with Minors and Vulnerable Adults.
YOUTH MINISTRY IN THE FBC YOUTH MINISTRY we live like Jesus–learning, laughing, growing, praising, loving, serving, going and doing. We live in fellowship and respect and will hold each other accountable to God’s word. Come and be a part of a great group of youth searching for their place in God’s kingdom. Find your place here at FBC! We have lots of fun with special events, retreats, mission trips, choir tours, volunteering in the community, and more. Our weekly activities start on Sunday mornings with Bible study at 9:15 am. Sunday afternoons begin at 4 pm with music activities and include a snack supper and conclude with discipleship time by 7 pm. Wednesday nights are a time of fun, fellowship and seeking from 6:15-7:15 pm.
COLLEGE MINISTRY For information on how to get connected with college ministry, contact Adam Horton, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Collegiate Minster @ UNCG | adam.horton@cbfnc.org IN THE FBC COLLEGE MINISTRY we are committed to becoming followers in the way of Jesus individually and within our community. Our core values involve the practice of spiritual disciplines, commitment to social justice and the pursuit of Biblical knowledge all within an authentic community. Join us for FREE Wednesday night dinner from 5:30-6:15 pm in our Fellowship Hall. You must make your meal reservation - due Tuesday at 12 noon: online at www.fbcgso.org/calendarevents or 274-3286, x245. September 2017 | 9
ADULT MINISTRY SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY ADULT BIBLE STUDY is ever changing and we have both traditional and more contemporary classes to choose from, as well as special one-time studies and seasonal studies. Bible study at FBC is every Sunday morning at 9:15 am until 10:15 am. There are small group Bible studies for all ages of adults that are based on the standard age division, as well as classes that are intergenerational, just for women, just for men, for the dramatic, and those based on a specific topic. We invite you to join us to study God’s word.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT ADULT ACCESS CLASSES ADULT ACCESS CLASSES provide a unique mid-week intergenerational and educational gathering time.
SENIOR MINISTRY OUR SENIOR ADULT MINISTRIES include monthly PrimeTime activities, homebound ministry, Bereavement Team, Friends Day, Historical Committee, day trips and more.
PrimeTime: This gathering for persons 50 years and older takes place on the first Monday of each month, October-December and February-May. A wide spectrum of activities is included: ceramics, prayer shawl knitting, Bible study, and a wonderful lunch with entertainment or a speaker. There is something for everyone on PrimeTime Monday! Day Trips: FBC Day trips are offered throughout the year to lots of interesting places in and around the Piedmont Triad. Everyone is invited to sign up and come along. We offer a variety of trips from memorial visits to plays to shopping to gospel sings and preaching! Come and have fun! For more information, contact: Cliff Lowery – lowerycc@aol.com | 210-6923 or Monica Vaughan edwinv550@aol.com | 323-0335
Previous Day Trips include: • D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia • Billy Graham museum • Southern Supreme Fruit Cake Store, Bear Creek • Shopping at Tanger Outlet • Paul J. Ciener Botanical Gardens • Old Salem • Plays at Wohlfart Haus Dinner Theatre • State Fair, Raleigh • Airborne & Special Operations Museum, Fayetteville • Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Winston-Salem • Homeland Creamery, Julian • UNC Planetarium, Chapel Hill • Historic Edenton Home Tour 10 | Connections
MISSIONS AT FBC MISSIONS AT FBC – SERVING LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY FBC HAS ESTABLISHED relationships with many wonderful non-profit organizations. Throughout the year there are many opportunities for you to get involved and serve in a variety of ways. To find out more about our Ministry Partners go to www.fbcgso.org/ministry-partners and click on individual ministry partner names at www.fbcgso.org/ministry-partners to access their websites and discover more about their organizations and how they are serving and meeting the needs of our community. We also support several missionaries through prayer, financial assistance, and serving alongside them on the mission field. Join us in support of our missionaries who are called to serve either in the United States or abroad.
WMU AT FBC: The Woman’s Missionary Union of First Baptist Church is part of a national organization that was organized in 1888 and has become the largest Protestant organization for women in the world, with a membership of approximately 1 million. From the beginning, WMU’s main purpose has been to educate and involve women, girls, and preschoolers in the cause of Christian missions. It accomplishes these purposes primarily through age-level organizations that study about missions, pray for missions, and seek opportunities to do missions locally and around the world. WMU at FBC is active and there are several groups you can participate in to serve and “do” missions work:
• WMU Group 2 – meet 1st Tuesdays at 7 pm Contact: Libby Shull – 312-5444, lshull@accordant.net | Martha Hicks – 337-5647, mphicks1030@gmail.com • WMU Group 3 – meet 2nd Tuesdays at 9:30 am, room 102 Contact: Jolyn Kelley – 852-0221, grandmuff@yahoo.com | Marie Binder – 288-3857, fbinder@aol.com • WMU Group 4 – meet 2nd Tuesdays at 10:30 am (September thru June) Contact: Martha Robison Spangler – 617-0961, martharobisonspangler@gmail.com • Mobile Meals – meet 3rd Fridays at 9:30 am, Peace United Methodist Church Contact: Cynthia Townes – 273-4020, cmtownes@yahoo.com | Anita Philpott – 456-7116, philpott4@bellsouth.net
RECREATION STAY FIT with Upward Cheerleading/Basketball, men’s softball, middle school/high school church basketball league, and morning exercise group. There is also a weight room and ceramics department in our gym building.
September 2017 | 11
CONNECT WITH MINISTRY PARTNERS
First Baptist has established relationships with many wonderful non-profit organizations. Featured on this page are a job posting at Hope Academy and a ministry focus on Peacehaven Farm. Job Posting: Development Director, Hope Academy | Greensboro, NC – 20-30 hours a week Hope Academy a non-profit is seeking a seasoned Director of Development to lead the development effort for the general operating budget and develop and execute a capital campaign to support growth and expansion. Hope Academy is a private, non-denominational Christ-centered school, for low income students in ggrades 5-8. Hope p Academyy seeks a Director of Development with the experience, the organizational skills, Competencies include: and the determination to meaningfully lead our development efforts while • Extensive development experience. wholeheartedly supporting our mission statement: “Through the hope and power of Christ and the influence of positive relationships, we seek to partner • Personal faith, humility and initiative. • Organized and thorough with with families to educate, encourage, and equip the youth we serve in order to attention to detail. transform their futures.” • Exceptional written and oral Reporting to the Director of Strategic Partnerships, primary responsibilitiess communication skills. of the Development Director include: • Excellent people skills • Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising plan including • Proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint cultivation and solicitation for foundation, individual, corporate, faith based d and donor database software. Experience organizations and public sector funding streams. in design or graphic software a plus. • Represent GFM/Hope Academy to the public through speaking • Proficient with social media. engagements and public relations opportunities including fundraising events.. • Bachelor’s degree required. • Produce high quality written materials including grant proposals, letters, reports, mailings and acknowledgements required to support ongoing fundraising activities. • Collect and synthesize information and data for grant reports, board meetings, proposals and supplementary development materials. • Integrate all development materials with overall strategic marketing and communications plan. Please email a resume to regina@glenwoodfamilyministries.org for consideration.
Peacehaven Community Farm… •A sustainable farm located on 89 beautiful acres of organic gardens, rolling pastures, and lush woodlands that connect people with special needs to their community •Dedicated to establishing an affordable housing community that provides a permanent home for adults with special needs in a supportive and family-like environment •Committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability on our working, community supported farm •Embraced by the support of a diverse and dedicated community engaged in growing both vegetables and relationships •Blessed by people who choose to live in community with people with special needs where the values of service, sharing, and the recognition of every individual’s gifts and contributions offer a model of renewal for our world •Celebrated by all who experience the peace and wonder of the farm’s community •With a mission to connect people with special needs to the larger community through shared living and the work of a sustainable farm. Our Vision is to provide a nurturing destination for learning and growth for people of all abilities. For more information about Peacehaven Farm go to their website: www.peacehavenfarm.org 12 | Connections
CONNECT WITH CHILDREN
THANK YOU FBC KIDS AND FAMILIES FOR A GREAT SUMMER! By Christina McCord SOME HIGHLIGHTS from this past summer were Peacehaven Community Farm workday, PASSPORTkids! Camp, movie night, VBS, spray ground, Junior Church, and a Grasshoppers game. There was lots of community building and spiritual growth that occurred through these events, and it was special to be a part of it. Coming up at FBC: • Sunday, September 10: Kindergarten and 3rd grade Bible presentation during the worship service • Save the date for our annual Fall Fest: Saturday, October 28 | 3-5 pm
Moms’ Group Mondays, September 11 thru November 13 9:30 - 11 am | FBC room 319 Based on the book “Listen, Love, Repeat” we will engage in learning practical ways to love the people closest to us as well as those who are farthest away. As we allow God to change our own hearts, we will grow in our abilities to change the hearts of others. FREE Childcare is provided starting at 9:15 am. Invite a friend and join us.
CONNECT WITH THE WEEKDAY SCHOOL
Upcoming Events Sept. 5 (Tu) 9-11 am: Parent Orientation Day Sept. 6 (W): First Day of School Sept. 6 (W) 12:15 pm: Popsicles on the Playground for Weekday School students and families Sept. 26 (Tu): Scholastic Book Fair/Family Night
Weekday School News • Link your Harris Teeter VIC card to the FBC Weekday School (8564). Link it at your favorite HT store or online at bit.ly/vic-link • Check out our new and evolving website: www.fbcgso.org/weekday-school — It has the latest information on registration, our yearly calendar, and our digital parent handbook. • Registration is ongoing throughout the year. Contact Amy Kirkman - amy@fbcgso.org | x240 for more info. September 2017 | 13
CONNECT WITH YOUTH
INTERIM YOUTH MINISTER – SARAH PARKER
W
E WELCOME SARAH PARKER as our Interim Youth Minister this fall. Sarah is a student at Wake Forest University Divinity School. She has worked with several youth groups as a ministry intern, including most recently with Knollwood Baptist in WinstonSalem and Smoke Rise Baptist in Atlanta. She is the child of ministers, and has grown up in some of First Baptist’s peer churches, where she had wonderful experiences in youth group. Sarah will work an average of 25 hrs/wk, working with the Pastoral Staff and Youth Council to continue leadership for a healthy ministry with youth of First Baptist Church Greensboro and their parents until a permanent Associate Pastor: Youth & Families is in place.
Search Committee Associate Pastor: Youth & Families– The Personnel Committee seeks nominations as they form the Search Committee for the next Associate Pastor: Youth & Families. Please send any names to Coolidge Porterfield, Chair, at cporterfield@triad.rr.com
Memories of FBC Youth Ministry Fun this Year
Photos include youth hanging out at Hanging Rock, spending time together at DiscipleNow Weekend, and posing for a group photo during their mission trip to Shreveport. 14 | Connections
CONNECT WITH YOUTH
Middle School Fall Retreat at Camp Caraway September 29 - October 1
Youth will discover a deeper walk with God. $95/person covers food, lodging, t-shirt. Sign-up by September 15. Register now: www.fbcgso.org/youth
CONNECT WITH COLLEGE
“FIRST FAMILIES” CARE FOR OUR FBC COLLEGE KIDS AND WE NEED YOU!
Sundays at First Baptist Church: -Pick-up at the UNCG Rock at 10:15 am for the Worship Service -Light lunch and Bible Study immediately after Worship in the Café
COLLEGE BIRTHDAYS Hannah Persinger | September 9 | UNC-Charlotte
First Families is a program of our College Ministry that connects our college students with a FBC member or family sponsor. Your responsibility is to stay in contact with your student during the school year via emails, phone calls, cards, and maybe a small gift on his or her birthday. For more information, contact Catherine Little - CatherineScottLittle@gmail.com | 856-0623.
1006 Courtland Street, Greensboro, NC 27401 | neal.persinger@gmail.com
Upcoming Events
Joshua Childs | September 10
• Saturday, September 2:
1313 Gadwall Way, Seneca, SC 29678-4956 | joshua.childs98@gmail.com
Margaret Wells | September 11 | Virginia Tech 1504 Burlwood Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 | margiepargie167@aol.com
Ryenne Blake | September 18 | UNC-Wilmington 1722 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 | Ryenneblake@gmail.com
Austin Worsley | September 19 | UNC-Charlotte 5806 Windhurst Court, Greensboro, NC 27410-2512 | austinworsley96@gmail.com
Hannah Lynch | September 23 | East Carolina 411 Sherrill Street, Greensboro, NC 27403 | hlynch.023@gmail.com
Jaret Wood | September 24 | Western Carolina 4002 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, 27410 | wjwood123@hotmail.com
Cooperative Baptist Student Fellowship (CBSF)
CBFS Game Night • Saturday, September 9: The National Folk Festival Downtown Greensboro (FREE) • Saturday, September 16: Service Project • Saturday, September 23: Hiking & Picnic at Hanging Rock State Park • Saturday, September 30: Campus Scavenger Hunt • October 27-29 (F-Su): CBSF Fall Retreat September 2017 | 15
REFLECTIONS
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NOTHER GREAT SUMMER is in the books and another stellar Summer Youth Intern is headed back to Divinity School. We were blessed this summer by Will Raybon’s enthusiasm to serve, his love for the youth, his many gifts, and his ever-present smile. As Will journeyed with us these past 3 months, he not only learned some of the “ins and outs” of youth ministry but he also brought a fresh perspective to FBC and his joy in connecting with our youth was evident to all. I am excited for Will as he pursues his passion for ministry at Gardner-Webb Divinity School this fall, and as you read his reflections on his time with us this summer, join me in praying for God’s continued guidance for Will this fall. –Steve Cothran
SUMMER YOUTH INTERN REFLECTIONS By Will Raybon
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Y HANDS FEEL STICKY,” I said to Steve as I attempted in vain to wipe sugar residue from my fingers. I heard a few more voices mutter “Thank you” over the din of the crowded room. “Yeah,” Steve replied, “It gets everywhere.” “Got any more creamer?” a gruff voice asked. “Is this sugar?” a second voice added. Over the ever-constant dull roar, we could hear an argument over nothing from across the room. Organized chaos is the name of the game over at Grace United Methodist Church every Tuesday morning from 7-9 am. As FBC Greensboro’s summer youth intern, I have spent many mornings this summer with Steve and a few others from our church at the Arise breakfast at Grace. Our particular job is to make sure everyone who wants coffee has it. It is messy, loud, discombobulating, and chaotic. It is also what our Celtic Christian sisters and brothers termed, “A thin place.” It is where the distance between heaven and earth collapses. I have experienced many of these places this summer. Hearing the uncontrollable laughter of a child during VBS, seeing the youth grow at Unidiversity, experiencing the beautiful voices heard at the All-State Youth Choir concert, and feeling the joy of a husband as a church stands and affirms the calling of his wife to be the new missions’ pastor. I will treasure the gifts First Baptist has given me throughout my time here this summer. I have learned that ministry is messy. It can be loud, discombobulating, chaotic, and any other adjective for overwhelming you wish to name. However, it is in the midst of all these things that we see, hear, and feel the Kingdom. The Kingdom is here all around us; laughter, songs, tears, prayers, friendships, and community, all of these things are markers of the Kingdom. We just need to look and to see them for what they are.
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CONNECT WITH ADULTS
Three Adult Access Seminars begin September 6 Access classes for adults meet on Wednesday evenings from 6:15-7:10 pm
SHARE YOUR GIFTS Room 102 | Facilitator: Courtney Stamey THIS FALL WE WILL CONTINUE to expand on the spirit of “finding” your place to one of “belonging” by offering a special and unique Access class. This class will be taught by eight different people! For the month of September we are asking people to “Share your Gifts.” This is an opportunity for people connected to the life of our church whether staff, regularly attending guests, new members, and long tenured members to share about the things that give them joy. We will have a wide variety of gifts shared, including art, photography, music, culinary skills, nutrition, mindfulness, and authorship.
CHAPEL BIBLE STUDY: THE MANY SIDES OF KING DAVID Chapel | Teacher: Dr. Steve Pressley KING DAVID WAS A MAN who longed to build a house for the Lord, yet in the end it was the Lord who built David a house—the House of Israel—and ultimately granted him the Messiah as his son. David would, in the words of biographer Frank Mead, become “the embodiment of [Israel’s] qualities, the incarnation of her spirit, the type of her destiny.” All of this despite the fact David “knew sin and fault and cruelty,” was a murderer and an adulterer, and had the blood of Israel’s enemies on his hands. Still, “pure religion lay within him like hidden gold.” He was poet, politician and musician. Nearly half of the 150 Psalms are attributed to David. We will consider the enigma of the shepherd-boy who killed Goliath and became Israel’s king as we survey his story in the books of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. This Chapel Bible Study will begin Wednesday, September 6 and continue through Wednesday, November 15.
BELONGING AND BECOMING: CREATING A THRIVING FAMILY CULTURE 108-C | Teacher: Courtney Willis PARENTS OF INFANTS THROUGH TEENS are invited to join our 8 week study on Belonging & Becoming: Creating A Thriving Family Culture. While following this book by Mark & Lisa Scandrette, we will talk about what it’s like to nurture our families in a high-performance, fast-paced culture. We will engage with conversations and ideas about how to be a family that is creative, intentional, soulful, and globally aware. It could be helpful to personally purchase and read the book, but it is not necessary in order to attend the class.
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CONNECT WITH ADULTS
A NEW PRIMETIME SEASON BEGINS ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 2 2017-18 PrimeTime Bible Study Will Examine Seven Chosen Chapters This year’s edition of our monthly PrimeTime Bible Study will feature seven of Dr. Steve Pressley’s all-time favorite Bible passages. The chapters are drawn from major biblical divisions: the Old Testament sections known as Law, Prophets and Writings, plus the New Testament Gospels, the Book of Acts, the letters of Paul, and the General Epistles. Studies and Monday meeting dates are as follows: • October 2 | Genesis 50: You meant evil…but God meant it for good (v. 20). • November 6 | 2 Chronicles 20: Stand firm, hold your position…do not be afraid and do not be dismayed (v. 17). • December 4 | Isaiah 40: They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;…(v. 31). • February 5 | Matthew 19: With man [salvation] is impossible, but with God all things are possible (v. 26). • March 5 | Acts 20: I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself (v. 24). • April 9 | 1 Corinthians 1: God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;…so that no human being might boast (vv. 27-29). • May 7 | 2 Peter 3: But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells (v. 13).
PrimeTime at FBC includes: 9 am: Ceramics, Gym | 9:30 am: Prayer Shawl Knitting, 108-A | 11 am: Bible Study, 101 12 noon: Lunch, 108 – Cost: $6/person – Reservation Deadline: September 28 Sign up for lunch online: www.fbcgso.org/seniors or contact Marty Kellam - marty@fbcgso.org | x245
HELP! THE YWCA FAMILY SHELTER NEEDS YOU (AND SOME FOOD!)
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BC HAS COMMITTED TO serve dinner at the Y once a month on the 3rd Monday. If each Sunday School class or group chooses a (one) month, that will take care of a year! Please select the month your class would prefer (with a back-up month). This is not a large commitment of time or effort. Dinner is for 30 people (and for you if you choose to stay and eat with the residents). It consists of an entree, some veggies and/or a salad, and dessert. It will be served at 6:30 pm, is quickly consumed, and clean up is minimal. The staff and residents do most of that work. The work can generally be handled by 3-4 people, but more are always welcome. If you would like to sign up to volunteer, you will receive more details. To sign up contact Cookie Hamilton - cookie8061@aol.com | 676-7213 or Nancy Davis - davisndn@aol.com | 674-2884.
The dates are listed below: Dates for 2017 – September 18 | October 16 | November 20 | December 18 Dates for 2018 – January 15 | February 19 | March 19 | April 16 | May 21 | June 18 | July 16 | August 20 September 17 | October 15 | November 19 | December 17
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CONNECT WITH ADULTS
Introduction to the Life Compass Plan Tuesday, September 12 | 7-8:30 pm in room 102
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LIFE COMPASS PLAN can guide you into a secure future, shared by people you love, while creating a legacy you choose. If you are younger, the potential is huge for how much your Life Compass Plan can fully express your greatest dreams and make the most impact on the world. If you are in the second half of life, a Life Compass Plan can add laser focus, establish your place as a trusted elder in your community and make the end of life an elegant journey through an unavoidable passage. Come learn how a Life Compass Plan works and how you can participate in a group that will meet to mutually encourage one another as you form your own unique path into your greatest potential. You will do this while learning to navigate “adult-ing” and aging at the highest level. Bring with you anyone you want to share the future with in any significant way. We can plan to flourish together!
Stay Connected on the Go with the Churchlife App
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AVE YOU EVER NEEDED a church member’s phone number or address when you are away from home or the church is closed? Well, the Churchlife app could be very helpful to you. The Churchlife app is a FREE, easy to use app that will give you instant access to the FBC contact database from your mobile devices. Only FBC members in our database have access to this information. You can easily look up phone numbers, addresses, and emails for each person in our Access ACSTM database. The app will even map a route to an address! Simply login using your Access ACSTM Member username and password from the “SignIn” at the top of the FBC website. Note: We have no access to your password, but we can help you with your username. We can help you reset your password if needed or you can reset it from the website link. If you have questions, contact Scott North - scott@fbcgso.org | x226.
Keep Us Updated! If you’ve had any changes to your contact information (phone, email, and address) let us know. If your children move, get married, go to college or graduate — we need to know that too! Send all updates to Rosemary Kellam: rosemary@fbcgso.org | x225. You can also update your member information via the private FBC Member website – click the “Sign In” button at the top of the website. All FBC members can create a login/password and have online access to your giving summary, church calendar, online registrations, search information, etc. Go to www.fbcgso.org to get started! Subscribe to the online version of Connections: FBC produces Connections in a printed format, but also in an online version with “active” links within the document that allow the reader to send an email or to access websites for more information. To subscribe, go to www.fbcgso.org/newsletter Keep up with FBC thru social media: “Like” us on Facebook September 2017 | 19
CONNECT WITH BUSINESS
Community Lunch followed by Church Conference Sunday, September 17 after Worship Cost is $6/person and $20/family maximum. NO reservation needed. A brief church conference will follow lunch to allow the membership to hear the latest from our Deacons and committees bringing motions forward.
Giving at FBC Greensboro Giving financially lets us honor God with the resources and provisions that He has provided for us. Practicing generous giving strengthens our relationship with Christ. As we learn to grow in our trust and faith in Christ, it is important to trust in His provision‌ we give faithfully and generously out of grateful hearts. If you have giving questions, contact Scott North scott@fbcgso.org | x226.
July 2017 Financial Results
Year-to-Date Budget Receipts/Distributions Receipts YTD Receipts YTD Disbursements Net YTD Deficit
Actual $116,934 $875,246 $968,198 ($ 92,952)
Budget $122,706 $959,361 $1,029,236 ($ 69,875)
Last Year $119,876 $918,714 $997,143 ($ 78,429)
Standing Committees Vote Sunday, September 17
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he Bylaws of First Baptist Church specify that the Committee on Committees shall present to the congregation the slate of nominees for election in the September Business meeting two weeks prior to the election. All nominees that will be considered this month are listed here:
Missions Phil Barbee | Renee Fila Amy Overman Stephens | Monica Vaughan Judyth White
Christian Assistance Sean Martin | Parker White
Building and Grounds Darlene Biffle (filling unexpired 1 year term) Ed Morrah | Lori Taylor Tom Townes
Personnel Sandra Canipe | Alan Tutterow 20 | Connections
Here is the list of those nominated for the Committee on Committees Gayle Adams | Robert Angell Blaine Bradford | Kelly Cornett Nancy Culclasure | Charles Hartis Perry Key | Karl Lewis Lynda Grace Moore | Tom Petty John Suggs | Cynthia Townes Ben Turner | Judyth White Anita Wilson
CONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER
Responding to the Invitation
September Birthdays (No FBC birthdays September 15)
Noah Woodell ( July 23)
Jacob Webb (August 20)
Welcome New Babies: George David Stone Born: August 8 | Parents: David and Jamie Stone
Andrew “Drew” Graham Lyles Born: August 14 | Parents: Graham and Melisa Lyles
Bereaved • Dale Singley in the loss of his mother, Lucille Singley Clark, on July 23 • Tom Petty in the loss of his cousin, John Petty, on July 24 • The family of former member Janet Finch Flemming, on July 25 • Bob Wiggins and Pam Key in the loss of their brother and uncle, Richard Wiggins, on July 25 • Carolyn Myers in the loss of her mother, Mary Cooper, on July 29 • The family of Dr. Gladstone Harrell, on July 30 • The family of Dr. William Stafford, on August 3 • The family of Ila Ingold, on August 4 • Rob Baugh in the loss of his mother, Pat Baugh, on August 5 • Jeff Perry in the loss of his father, Michel Perry, on August 11 • The family of Janelle Snider, on August 16 • The family of Vivian Rallings, on August 20
1. Jake Barlow, Sarah Carter 2. James Barber, Jim Clontz, Jim Deere, Emily Sheffield, Matthew Stall 3. Fred Binder, Brittany Wonce 4. Wesley Adams, Kilee Blakely, Joyce Burch, Paula Carter 5. Roberta Hartgrove 6. Edna Andrews, Grey Cockerham, Robb Wells 7. Charlotte Barnes, Dale Bias, Nancy Culclasure, Marty Hill, Marshall Johnson 8. Norma Adams, Marina Cothran, Lorie Rainey, Jack Sharp 9. Hannah Persinger, Helen Stinson 10. Joshua Childs, Merrill Norris, Matthew Sumner, Charlotte Vance, Meredith Vaughn 11. Margaret Wells 12. Barbara Brock, John Chandler, Richard Miller 13. Ann Barnes, Blaine Bradford, Britt Isom, Marty Isom, Janice Newsom, Bill Walke, Bowen Young 14. John Raines, Jean Shore 16. Josef Fila, Perry Key, Frances Upchurch 17. Alan Bowers, Gordan Johnson, Sarah Moore 18. Ryenne Blake, Kaylee Idol, Derek Johnson, Joan Ratliff, Alan Tutterow, Kim Youngdahl 19. David Canter, Kay Crawford, John Fisher, Lorna Leigh Lanning, John Sample, Austin Worsley, Becky Yaun 20. Patricia Lambert, Faye Thompson, Terri Vancil, Bob Wiggins 21. Kate Austin, Tom Sears, Kim Taylor 22. Sidonna Black, Allison Donovan, Nevin Rohrbaugh, Perry Steelman, Paul Stutts 23. Sandy Cole, Hannah Lynch, Evelyn Mitchell, Chuck Peeler, Trent Philpott 24. Mary Adams, Bobby Alford, Chris Culbreth, David Philpott, Jaret Wood 25. Dorothy Lewis, Samuel Vaughan 26. Carter Bland, Janet Caldwell, Archie Williams 27. Kayse Burke, Mike Kalish 28. Bryce Fogleman, Earl Mitchell, Todd Power 29. Graham Bland, Fairey Horton, Kaye Tutterow, Matt Wise 30. Shari Beavers, Annie Donovan, John Markham, WK Morgan September 2017 | 21
September @FBC
This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be happy today! (Psalm 118.24)
Belong at the Table: Wednesday night theme continues this Fall By Courtney Stamey LAST YEAR, WE TALKED ABOUT what it means to “Find Your Place at the Table.” We considered what it meant to share meals together on Wednesday night as set by the example of Jesus sharing meals with his disciples. For the next few months, we will focus on what it means to Belong at the Table, and then we will concentrate on what is means to Welcome Others to the Table. With the concept of “finding your place” came several new things to help people feel welcome. We incorporated Weekly Children’s Extras, with healthy options for kids like fresh fruit, veggies, and yogurt. We also added a weekly salad bar, moved the payment table into the Fellowship Hall, and moved the stage to the center of the room. All of these things done so as many people as possible could find their own places at the table. The next step in finding your place at the table is moving beyond knowing you have a seat, it is knowing that you belong, and welcoming others in turn. We know that there are continual improvements to make all feel welcome, and we always appreciate your feedback.
Wednesday Night Weekly Activities Meals: 5:30 pm - 6:15 pm Classes: 6:15 - 7:10 pm September 6: Theo’s Famous Fried Chicken September 13: Pasta September 20: Baked Potato Bar September 27: Breakfast Weekly Children’s Extras:
Yogurt, Fresh Fruits & Veggies, Etc. Reservations are encouraged for meals. 22 | Connections
•3, 10, 17, 24 (Su): College Lunch/Bible Study.
Café, 12 noon •3 (Su): Committee on Committees. 4 pm •4 (M): Church offices closed for the holiday. •5 (Tu): Grace Meal Prep. Kitchen, 5 pm •5 (Tu): WMU Group 2. 102, 7 pm •6 (W): Grace Meal Pick-Up & Serve. Kitchen, 5 pm •6, 13, 20, 27 (W): Fellowship Meal/Free for College. 108, 5:30 pm (serving begins at 5 pm) •6, 13, 20, 27 (W): Adult Access. 6:15-7:10 pm •10 (Su): StepUp Ministry Clothing Collection. Atrium, 9 am •10 (Su): Worship/Bible Presentation. Sanctuary, 10:30 am •10 (Su): Baptism at the Lake/Deacon Ordination. Camp Weaver, 4 pm •10 (Su): Finance Committee. 108-C, 4:30 pm •11 (M): Deacon’s Meeting. 102, 7 pm •12 (Tu): WMU Group 4. 204, 10:30 am •12 (Tu): Silver Compassion. 7 pm •13 (W): Missions Committee. 108-E, 5:30 pm •15 (F): Mobile Meals. Peace United Church of Christ, 9:30 am 17 • (Su): Community Lunch followed by Church Conference. 108, 11:45 am 19 • (Tu): Friends Day Luncheon. 108, 11:30 am •20 (W): Building & Grounds Committee. 216, 5:30 pm •26 (Tu): Senior Adult Council. 216, 2 pm •26 (Tu): Personnel Committee. 216, 7 pm •29-Oct. 1 (F-Su): Middle School Fall Retreat. Camp Caraway
•Adults •All Ages •Children •College •Seniors •Missions •Weekday School •Worship •Youth
Key:
A Thousand Words‌ A picture tells a story just as well as, if not better than, a thousand written words. Enjoy these pictures that tell stories from our FBC family. Share your photos: #fbcgso on Facebook or Instagram.
Memories from FBC’s Interns-Led Worship Service
Happiness Retreat 2017 at Camp Caraway Memories
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First Baptist Church Greensboro 1000 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401 www.fbcgso.org
Friends Day Luncheon to Celebrate Our Homebound Members Tuesday, September 19 11:30 am | Fellowship Hall
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T’S TIME TO HONOR our homebound members with our annual Friends Day luncheon, 11:30 am, September 19. As in past years, lunch will be served by FBC ministers and staff. Homebound members and friends will share tables, lunch and conversation. A brief, inspirational program–including a special greeting from the Pastor–will follow. Once again, our church deacons have agreed to invite our homebound fellow members, and deacons will also be working to arrange transportation. Other members who are interested in transporting and hosting a homebound member should contact Steve Pressley - stevep@fbcgso.org | x232 - and he will assist in coordinating with a deacon. Deacons and others who are hosting should RSVP Steve Pressley at stevep@fbcgso.org by Friday, September 15. The event is free for all homebound members, and also for those who transport them and share lunch with them. These include deacons, other church members who host, and any family members or caregivers who assist with transportation.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID GREENSBORO, NC NO. 179
Join us on these FBC Trips: November 2-4 | Yadkin Tours Christmas Shows, Carolina Opry & Alabama Theatre, Myrtle Beach Includes two shows, three paid meals, oceanfront lodging, Supreme Fruit Cake Tour, and shopping at Coastal Mall and Tanger Outlet. $325/person. Sign-up deadline: October 1. December 1 | Yadkin Tours American Jubilee Christmas Show, Rudy Theatre, Selma, NC Get in the spirit of the holidays. Sing along with traditional Christmas favorites like “Silver Bells” and “White Christmas.” $89/ person. Sign-up deadline: November 1. Important Sign-Up Trip Information: To reserve your spot for a trip, go to www.fbcgso.org/trips or contact: Cliff Lowery: 210-6923 – lowerycc@aol.com or Monica Vaughan: 323-0335 – edwinv550@aol.com (NOTE: Payment for the trips cannot be accepted online)