SEPTEMBER 2014 // www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.3286
first baptist church greensboro
Luncheon, September 21
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Emphasizing worship, spiritual development, fellowship, and ministry to our city and our world.
JUMP INTO FALL
www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.3286 1000 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401
October Connections Deadline: September 16 Email news to kelly@fbcgso.org or bring it to the church office.
Kelly Stephens, Managing Editor Communications Director kelly@fbcgso.org / x223
September 2014 3 Insight | by Alan Sherouse
–Welcome to Jessica Hartmann, our new Pastoral Administrator –Meet Patrick Cardwell – Our 2014-2015 Pastoral Intern
4 Connect with Music & Worship
Gloria Koster, Design Manager Administrative Assistant: Learning gloria@fbcgso.org / x288
–Music @ FBC –Deacon Ordination Service –”It’s Good!” - A Musical about the Creation
Steve Sumerel, Supervising Editor Associate Pastor: Adult Learning steves@fbcgso.org / x233
Connect with Senior Adults
Teresa Allen, Media Library Director teresaa@fbcgso.org / x229 Ginny Carpenter, Weekday School Director ginny@fbcgso.org / x240 Steve Cothran, Associate Pastor: Students and Family Life / stevec@fbcgso.org / x235 Dolores Donahue, Administrative Assistant: Finance / dolores@fbcgso.org / x226 Ashley Gill Harrington, Interim Minister for Children and Families / ashley@fbcgso.org / x241 Jessica Hartman, Pastoral Administrator jessica@fbcgso.org / x231 Jane Anne Hayber, Administrative Assistant: Music and Worship / janeanne@fbcgso.org / x239 Marty Kellam, Food Services Director marty@fbcgso.org / x245 Rosemary Kellam, Operations Director rosemary@fbcgso.org / x225 Kate Kitchen, Homebound Ministry Director katek@fbcgso.org / 202-5757 Scott North, Church Administrator scott@fbcgso.org / x222 Steve Pressley, Associate Pastor stevep@fbcgso.org / x231 Kim Priddy, Assistant Pastor: Missions kim@fbcgso.org / x295 Alan Sherouse, Senior Pastor pastor@fbcgso.org / x231 Marion Smith, Facilities Supervisor, x243 Doug Vancil, Associate Pastor: Music and Worship doug@fbcgso.org / x237 Terri Vancil, Assistant Pastor: Music and Worship terri@fbcgso.org / x238
2 | Connections
–Friends Day Luncheon
5 Connect with Children, Youth, and College
–Meet Ashley Gill Harrington, Interim Minister for Children and Families –Welcoming College Student Visitors –Youth Parent Council –Middle and High School Fall Retreats
6-7 Connect with Missions
–Downtown Discernment Update –A Volunteer’s Reflections on the “Steps to Success” Kindergarten Camp –Missions Fair –Update from the Vaughans –Join FBC help to fight hunger in Guilford County –Upcoming opportunities where you can get involved...
8 Connect with Adults
–New Wednesday Night Access Classes –Best Practice for Sunday School Teaching Training Sessions –New Library Books
9 Connect with Business
–Standing Committees Vote - September 14 –July Financial Report Highlights –September Community Lunch and Church Conference September 14 –State of the Church Luncheon - September 21
10 Connect with One Another
–Fall Kick Off @ FBC - September 3
11 September @ FBC –Day Trip to National D-Day Memorial, Bedford, Virginia
12 FBC Weekday School Second Time Around Consignment Sale Cover photograph courtesy of Charles Hartis.
By Alan Sherouse
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e have rounded out an active and energizing summer at First Baptist. Among the highlights were the gifts of our summer staff: Josh Owens and Susanna Trotter. A recent graduate of Campbell University Divinity School, Josh was ordained by his home church at the close of the summer and is now beginning his tenure as Associate Pastor at First Baptist of Monroe, NC. First, however, he chose to spend 3 months as our youth ministry intern, largely out of his interest in First Baptist and his desire to learn in this setting. Susanna has returned to UNC-Chapel Hill for her junior year after serving as our Children’s Ministry Coordinator throughout a summer of transition. For Susanna, the summer was not only a chance to do work she enjoyed in a church she loved, it was also an opportunity to explore her own sense of vocation. In both of our summer staff members, we are reminded of the opportunity that exists for First Baptist to be a site of formation and encouragement for talented young ministers. We have the same opportunity this fall, as we welcome Patrick Cardwell, a second-year student at Wake Forest Divinity School, who will serve as our Pastoral Intern throughout the school year (more about Patrick below). As First Baptist continues to draw the talents of young ministers for internships and formative programs, I hope we will claim our identity as a Teaching Congregation. Not every church aspires to that calling, but we have lived it for years, even in the Associate Pastor program of the 1960s that drew gifted ministers
like Jack Causey, Bill Wilson, Sr. and Randall Lolley to First Baptist at the start of their pastoral careers. In his description of “teaching congregations,” George Mason, pastor of Wilshire Baptist in Dallas and architect of Wilshire’s model Pastoral Residency program, writes, “Wisdom resides in pew and pulpit alike. Clergy and laity are important to this work of training leaders for the church from generation to generation.” Aware of the wisdom that resides with us, our deacons and ministers have been actively discussing the possibility of First Baptist developing its own Pastoral Residency program. Akin to a medical residency, such pastoral residencies employ recent seminary graduates in a 2-yr program that helps to develop the habits and patterns that characterize a sustainable ministry. The program would utilize the resources and gifts of our congregation to train the next generation of ministers and extend the work and witness of our church across time and space. We look forward to churchwide discussion of this opportunity at our Church Conference this month. Of course – whether Residents, Interns, or Summer Staff – those who come to learn inevitably end up teaching, as well. Even as we draw upon the wisdom and resources of our past, we also continually find through the gifts of people like Josh and Susanna new ways of deepening our lives together in Christ and sharing our witness with the world. In this way, a Teaching Congregation is also a Learning Congregation. I hope we can continually claim that identity, too.
Patrick Cardwell – Our 2014-2015 Pastoral Intern
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e’re pleased to introduce Patrick Cardwell, our Pastoral Intern for the 2014-2015 school year.
Patrick is in his second year of the MDiv program at the Divinity School of Wake Forest. A graduate of Appalachian State University (BA in Religious Studies, 2013), Patrick has previously served as an intern at Wilton Baptist Church in Wilton, Conn. (Summer 2014) and First Baptist Church of Boone, NC (2012-2013). As Pastoral Intern, Patrick will participate in the pastoral ministries of First Baptist, with particular learning goals in the areas of Pastoral Care and Community Ministry. “I’m grateful for the opportunity at First Baptist and glad to have a seat at the table alongside people who strive to bring God’s new community to the present.”
Welcome to Jessica Hartman, our new Pastoral Administrator
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essica brings a range of experience to FBC, having worked most recently as a Veterinary Assistant and before that as a Family Medicine Physician. Jessica is looking forward to being a part of our staff team and coming to know the First Baptist community while serving in this important role. You can find her in the Pastor’s Office every day from 9 am -2 pm. Drop by to say hello! Contact info: jessica@fbcgso.org / 274.3286, x231
– Patrick Cardwell September 2014 | 3
Connect with Music & Worship
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usic @ FBC
From our generation to all generations we offer a song resounding in time…
• Sanctuary Choir provides worship leadership on 2nd, 3rd and 5th Sundays of each month. Two rehearsals are offered each week: Wednesdays at 7:15 (beginning 9/3) or Sundays at 7 (beginning 9/14). Childcare is provided. Adult Handbells is an advanced group of ringers providing worship music on 2nd Sundays. Rehearsals are held in the Sanctuary on Sunday evenings at 6 pm. Instrumental Ensemble is composed of High School and adult players. Dust off that instrument and join us for rehearsal each 3rd Sunday at 7 pm. IE provides music leadership on 4th Sundays in worship. • Youth Choir is a great time and a full room! Eighty Middle School and High School students gather on Sundays at 5 pm to prepare worship music for 1st Sundays. Two youth handbell groups (divided by age/ability) rehearse Sundays at 4 pm. Youth ringers are participants in Youth Choir and ring in worship on 1st Sundays. • Music for Children is a regular feature of Kids’ Access each Wednesday. Music groups are provided for 3s & 4s, Kinders-Grade 1, and Grades 2-5. Earlier arriver activities begin at 6 pm with music and faith formation from 6:15-7:10 pm. Younger children sing for special services in December and May. The Young Musicians (grades 2-5) sing every 2nd Sunday in worship. • Children’s Handbells for grades 4-5 rehearse each Sunday afternoon starting September 14. Children’s bell ringers are drawn from the Young Musicians choir.
Deacon Ordination Service Sunday, September 7 6 pm Sanctuary Join us as we will ordain our new incoming Deacons in a special service of blessing and prayer.
It’s Good!
A musical about the Creation Presented by children in grades 2-5
Wednesday, October 29 at 7 pm Rehearsals begin Wednesday, September 10 from 6:15 – 7:10 pm All 2nd – 5th graders are welcome to join us as we prepare stage, song and dance!
Children’s music activities begin Sept. 10 and regular Sunday evening rehearsals begin Sept. 14.
Connect with Senior Adults
Friends Day Luncheon Celebrates Our Homebound Members Tuesday, September 23, 12 noon, Fellowship Hall
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t’s time to honor our homebound members with our special annual luncheon. Steve Sumerel, our Associate Pastor of Adult Learning, will be offering his delightful rendition of Ishmael’s travels—and your Senior Pastor Alan Sherouse has promised to bring his guitar, so we guarantee it will be a fun event! Church members are encouraged to provide transportation and host a homebound member. Call Kate Kitchen at 202-5757 and she will help identify those whom you might invite or if you are a homebound member in need of transportation. If a family member or caregiver can bring you, they are invited to our luncheon. Our church bus will pick up at Friends Homes Guilford and West, but reservations still need to be made. All reservations should be made with Rosemary Kellam in the main office at 274-3286, ext. 225 by September 19. Friends Day Volunteer Drivers Needed: If you can drive a homebound friend to our luncheon you will be treated to lunch! If you are willing and able, call Kate Kitchen (202-5757) and she will help you with logistics. 4 | Connections
Connect with Children, Youth, and College
Meet Ashley Gill Harrington
Welcoming College Student Visitors
Interim Minister for Children and Families
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shley comes to FBC with over a decade of experience in pastoral ministry to families and children. Most recently she served as Associate Minister of Family Life & Education at University Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, Mississippi (2007-2013). Previously, she served as Minister to Children at Seventh & James Baptist Church in Waco, TX (2003-2007). She is a graduate of Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University (Master of Divinity, 2007) and Georgetown College (Bachelor of Science in Elementary Ed, 2003). Ashley will serve through the duration of our search for permanent leadership of our Children and Family Ministry. A Word from Ashley–I am delighted to be joining you at First Baptist Church! Ministering to children and their families is what I am passionate about and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so with you. I felt called to ministry as a young teenager, and while in college I was given the opportunity to work in my home church. During that time, I saw in children’s ministry the intersection of my calling, my giftedness, and my passions. From there my call has continued to evolve, yet children and families have remained at the center. I love the energy and honesty that children bring to discovering faith, and I enjoy resourcing parents and caregivers with tools to bring the heart of faith development into their homes where they live each day. During this time of interim, I hope to be a loving caregiver to help bridge the gap between the legacy of what was and the hope of what will be for the children and families of First Baptist Church. Though I know this is for a season, I look forward to the good days ahead as we work to welcome and nurture First Baptist’s youngest and treasured members. College Birthday: Tyler Gail Wood 9/9 - Wheaton College, CPO 3221, 501 College Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187, tylergailwood@yahoo.com
If you have a college student: Send us their birthday and contact info: gloria@fbcgso.org / 274.3286, x288
Middle and High School Fall Retreats Retreat Middle School 4 September 12-1 ay Camp Caraw
uth will Middle School yo walk er discover a deep n rso pe 5/ $8 . with God ing, dg lo , od fo rs cove t-shirt.
High School Retreat October 3-5 Blue Ridge Assembly High School youth wil l enjoy this time away with God. $85/person covers food, lodging, t-shirt.
Register now: www.fbcgso.org/youth
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e have a wealth of colleges and universities in Greensboro. Each year almost 45,000 college students are in Greensboro, and this is a time when students need Christ in their lives the most. We can reach out to them, but a church of our size can be intimidating (to say the least) to a college student attending for the first time. There is a great mission waiting just outside our doors. Most college students will sneak into the back of the sanctuary and try to be inconspicuous. Look around and say hello. Our number 1 priority is to make them feel welcome! Even if First Baptist does not become their home, by reaching out and making them feel cared for and loved, they will be stronger in Christ knowing that they have brothers and sisters at 1000 West Friendly Avenue. Youth Ministry and Choir Kick Off Sunday, September 7 4:30 pm, Fellowship Hall We will kick off our Fall Schedule with our annual Youth Parent Meeting. Food will be provided.
Youth Parent Council
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by Steve Cothran
ack in February, I sat down with some parents who came to me and said “We want to help. What do you need?” What blossomed out of that meeting was a Youth Parent Council that has been working over the past several months to pray, to brainstorm, and to look for ways to make Youth Ministry at FBC the best it can be. The members of the Council are Chris Carter, Debbie Garner, Marty Isom, Clare Johnson, Dan Kennedy, Lynda Grace Moore, Alexis Petitt, Kelly Stephens, Tom Townes, Pat Wilson, and Ginny Young, with Amy Knight serving as our chairperson. Please add these leaders to your prayer list as we look to the future and to the great plans God has for Youth at FBC. Youth parents can be active participants in the youth ministry program by volunteering in youth programming or chaperoning an event, retreat, etc. Contact Steve Cothran– stevec@fbcgso.org / 274.3286, x235. September 2014 | 5
Connect with Missions Downtown Update
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ur Ad-Hoc Committee continues to move forward with a feasibility study and strategic plan for a downtown ministry, focusing on 5 key areas of Vision/Mission, Program/Staff, Partners, Building, and Finances. We plan to present our work for church consideration at our October Church Conference. We are encouraged in our work and the possibilities that are emerging. At the September Church Conference (September 14), the Committee will share its progress and outline some of the basic elements of the developing plan. We are also grateful for the thoughtful consideration and dialogue that has occurred with church members throughout our Downtown Discernment, and we hope the discussion will continue to grow. To that end, we would like to schedule conversations with Sunday School classes to discuss the vision further, and also to benefit from the questions and observations that will arise from within the church. Reps from our Ad Hoc Committee would be happy to come to your class one Sunday from September 14 to October 12. Visits can last 10 - 20 minutes and occur at any point in the Sunday School hour, based on your availability. For more information, or to schedule a Sunday School conversation, please contact Laura Lomax– llomax1@triad.rr.com or Kim Priddy– kim@fbcgso.org / 274.3286, x295).
A Volunteer’s Reflections on the “Steps to Success” Kindergarten Camp by Kim Priddy
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emember reading the poem “All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten?” Along with learning to share everything, playing fair, cleaning up your own mess, and washing your hands before you eat; today children are expected to know so much more than I did when I went to kindergarten over thirty years ago. My second go-around in kindergarten was much harder (nap time has become extinct). Did you know that when kindergarteners go to school they are expected to already know their colors, recite numbers, and recognize letters of the alphabet? Children are taught that there are sky line letters (t, b, f, etc…) and plane line letters (n,m,u, etc.). Yes, kindergarten has gotten tougher, but some things have not changed. I witnessed over the two week camp that children are still innocent and love attention. Our partnership is not only with a school, it is with the children and their families. It was a beautiful scene at the Thursday night celebration; communities gathered around tables sharing food, laughter, and conversation. We are all aware that these children are our future. Thank you to everyone who participated in the “Steps to Success” Bessemer Camp. Our Facebook page includes links to the News & Record article and the Guilford County news channel that shared our story. This was absolutely one of my favorite camps!
Missions Fair Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The size of the harvest is bigger than you can imagine, but there are few workers. Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers for his harvest. (Matthew 9.36-38)
6 | Connections
Sunday October 19 12 noon on the Church Lawn Food Trucks will be serving lunch
Come learn more about the ministries that we partner with through financial and volunteer resources.
Connect with Missions Update from the Vaughans by Helen Vaughan
Dear First Baptist Church members,
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hank you for your continued support and encouragement of Ellis and me. We are blessed over and over again by your kind words, your financial support of our ministry, your prayers, and your devotion to our church and to our Lord. We love you! Transition Time: Papa’s passing: Many of you know that Ellis’ dad lived with us. He had a stroke two years ago and we moved back from Budapest in order to care for him. For a while he attended FBC and benefitted from some of your visits and extensions of kindness. He peacefully passed away on July 28. Since Papa does not need us anymore, the option is open for us to return to overseas mission. Horsham, UK-when to go: Our mission, TeachBeyond, is headquartered in Horsham, England. As a member of the leadership team, I am expected to work there at least halftime and preferably fulltime. Over the next several days Ellis and I need to evaluate whether to permanently move there or to commute. Please pray with us about this decision! Switzerland-strategic schools: Reportedly, Europe is the only continent where Christianity is not growing (Antarctica?). We are thrilled to respond to requests to support Christian schools there. In May I worked with a school in Geneva and met with folks wanting to start one in Zurich. India-victory: After a year of curriculum writing and re-writing (after the first team failed and called for a re-write), I went to India in June to teach the Christian teachers from the village schools in the Himalayan foothills. The travel and teaching were both quite challenging (let me know if you want the crazy, longer version of this escapade). As hard as this project has been, I think the week of teaching was beneficial. I also acquired a deeper understanding of the importance of prayer. Mexico-pray again: August 18-22 I will be in Mexico City consulting with a church which is considering starting a school as an outreach to middle income Mexican families. This church wants to transform lives in order to transform their community. Please pray especially for discernment as I interact with the Christ-honoring hopes and dreams of this church.
Editor’s Note: To contact the Vaughans with questions or comments: hvaughan@teachbeyond.org or 336.286.9426.
Join FBC help to fight hunger in Guilford County
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ring donations to Church! (Listed below are food donation suggestions.) Let’s be part of the more than 1.2 million pounds of food distributed through Greensboro Urban Ministry (GUM) feeding programs. GUM strives to fill the gap between individual income and government benefits by providing emergency food assistance bags, which are distributed through the Emergency Assistance Program. These food assistance bags include fruits and vegetables, grains, and protein, to help ensure that those receiving assistance are eating balanced nutritious meals. By helping to ebb the pains of hunger, recipients are provided with some peace of mind and the fortitude necessary to focus on other areas of crisis in their lives. When you are at the grocery story, consider purchasing some of these items: Protein Sources: Tuna, Salmon, Beef Stew, Spam, Corned Beef, Peanut Butter (18 oz. jar) Vegetables: Greens, e.g. Turnip, Mixed Vegetables, Peas (green), Tomatoes, Corn, Green Beans Fruits: Peaches, Pears, Fruit Cocktail, Applesauce Other Items: Soups, Sugar (2 lbs.), Dry milk, Oatmeal (18 oz.), Macaroni & cheese, bags of dry beans, Rice (1 lb. or larger bags) Dietary Supplements: Ensure
Upcoming opportunities where you can get involved…
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Grace Community Fellowship Dinner begins serving monthly on Wednesday, September 3. If you are interested in preparing or serving dinner, contact Jack Steelman–288.7004/ sueanjack@gmail.com or Gayle Wiley–852.2768/ gayle@richardlwiley.com
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Crop Walk will be Sunday, October 19 at 2:30 pm at NewBridge Bank Park. It is not too early to sign up or make a donation for the FBC Team: contact Kim Priddy–274.3286, x295/ kim@fbcgso.org September 2014 | 7
Connect with Adults New Access Classes begin September 10
Grow with Us at Access! Wednesday nights, 6:15 - 7:10 pm
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Women’s Book Study: Unglued–Has there ever
been a time in your life when you have felt “unglued?” Perhaps you are feeling this right now. Women of all ages are invited to join together for an open discussion about emotions that can bring fullness to life, or help to destroy it. Each week will focus on a chapter of Lysa TerKeurst’s new book, Unglued: Making Wise Choices in the Midst of Raw Emotions. The sessions will be led by Kelly Cornett and Becky Starnes in the Café.
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Bible Study: Revelation as Drama–Dr. Jim Wayne will
explore the rich history, the varying interpretations, and the dramatic actions of God in the midst of a very troubled time in his popular seminar on debatably the most misunderstood book of the Bible, The Revelation to John. Dr. Wayne pulls from his personal journey to the ancient sites of the seven churches in Revelation, as he weaves years of study into this multifaceted study. “Revelation as Drama” will meet in room 102.
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Discipleship Study: 14 Disciplines of Faithful Disciples–Just as the
strength of the body takes conditioning, so it is that faithful discipleship takes discipline. Some of these disciplines fit in well with the culture of our time…others, not so much. In an honest and open dialogue, this gathering will explore the pros and cons of 14 important Christian disciplines as we weigh the “cost/benefit” of each. Movie and TV clips, the newspaper, or conversations we have in the workplace and so much more shall become the launch pads for our discussions on how we can be faithful in today’s world. Steve Sumerel will lead this discussion in room 108-C.
New Library Books MAIN LIBRARY • Come Home by Lisa Scottoline • The Jungle by Upton Sinclair • The Drop by Michael Connelly • The Columbus Affair by Steve Berry • The Jefferson Key by Steve Berry • The Search Committee by Tim Owens • Innocent by Scott Turow (Audio Book) • Sycamore Row by John Grisham (Audio Book) 8 | Connections
• To the Last Man: A Novel of the First World War by Jeff Shaara • The Final Storm: A Novel of the War in the Pacific by Jeff Shaara • How To Be Social Media Parents by Brian Foreman • In the Company of Others by Jan Karon
CHILDREN’S LIBRARY • Puppies and Kittens 2 by Marilyn Easton • Mosquitoes by Martha E. H. Rustad • Temperature by Kay Manolis
Best Practice for Sunday School Teaching Sundays, September 14, 21 & 28
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ou take your commitment to teaching Sunday school seriously. You want to plan interesting lessons that matter in the lives of your class. You know the Bible well and use lots of resources to give depth to each lesson. So, in addition to your strong knowledge base and commitment, what can you do to strengthen your Sunday school teaching? What is known about how people learn that can be applied in the Sunday school classroom? On three Sunday evenings in September, Dr. Helen Vaughan will share the well-researched best practices of instructional delivery in room 102. Helen will model and tell about the methods known to increase student learning, build positive relationships among the teacher and participants, and add critical thinking and application to the subject at hand. Anyone and everyone is welcomed as the methods presented apply to any teacher-learner situation; however, the examples will be applied to Sunday school instruction. Please register by contacting Steve Sumerel– steves@fbcgso.org 274.3286, x233. Editor’s Note: For more information on Helen Vaughan’s teaching ministry, read her article on page 7. • Moths by Martha E. H. Rustad • I Love Dogs and Puppies by Nicola Jane Swinney • I Love Baby Animals by Camilla de la Bedoyere • An Awesome Book of Love by Dallas Clayton • Friends by Helme Heine
Connect with Business
Standing Committees Vote September 14 The Bylaws of First Baptist Church specify that the new members of the Committee on Committees are to be elected at a special called meeting of the membership in the month of September. This year, that special called meeting is being combined with the regular monthly meeting for September, which will take place on Sunday, September 14 in the Fellowship Hall following lunch. The new members of other standing committees will also be elected at this meeting. The members of the Committee on Committees will serve for one year. The members elected to the other standing committees will serve a term of three years unless otherwise noted. The nominees for these committees are listed here.
Building and Grounds Committee
Missions Committee
(October 1 / 3 year term)
Scott Lyle Anita Philpott Trisha Hooper Tom Sears Brad Wall
Joanna Sample Jack Sharp Randy McDaniel Bill Tutterow (to complete
vacant term through 2015)
Christian Assistance Fund Committee (October 1 / 3 year term)
Ginger Gooding Tami Payne
(October 1 / 3 year term)
Coolidge Porterfield Thom Little
Committee on Committees:
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f we look at only the July budget numbers listed below, it is hard to imagine how we could find any highlights. Nevertheless, in God’s economy, FBC Greensboro has been blessed over the past year to have more financial resources, in spite of operating budget deficits, due to bequests made to the church and very positive investment results in our endowment funds. The Finance Committee continues to monitor the budget on a monthly basis. This month, they noted: • Receipts for the year, while under budget, are still running ahead of last year. • The rolling 12 receipts at the end of July still total over $1,700,000, $16,000 better than last year. • Total Invested balances, which includes the endowment funds exceed $2,500,000, and are up 4.6% over July of 2013. Things to Consider:
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s your commitment current? Sometimes it seems that our giving goes on vacation when we do in the summer. If that has happened to you, please know that catching up your commitment will certainly help the Finance Committee as they enter into the upcoming budget preparation season. Have you considered making the church a part of your overall estate plan? In the past few months the church has been blessed with several bequests from faithful members who desired to continue their support of the ministry at First Baptist through their wills, trusts, and estates. If you have any questions or would like to know more about these subjects, please contact Scott North, Church Administrator, in the church office or any members of the Endowment Trust or Finance Committees.
July 2014 Financial Update Actual
Personnel Committee
Lee Barnett, Randy Bowers, Chris Canipe, David Crews, Louise Garcia, Dan Kennedy, Elaine McRae, Tammy Miller, Deanna Pegram, Frances Upchurch, Monica Vaughan, and Judyth White
July Financial Report Highlights
Receipts & Distributions
(October 1 / 3 year term)
Budget Last Year
YTD Budget Receipts $ 933,184 $ 987,347 $ 917,160 YTD Budget Disbursements $ 1,051,950 $ 1,043,630 $ 999,520 YTD Differential $ (118,766) $ (56,283) $ (82,360)
Sunday, September 14–
Community Lunch followed by Church Conference 12 noon, Fellowship Hall. No reservations are required. $6/person – $20/family max.
State of the Church
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ll are invited to a “State of the Church” luncheon following worship on Sunday, September 21. This is the first of what will become an annual tradition at First Baptist, providing time for reflection on what has been and vision of what is yet to be. We will reflect on the year that has passed, and share about the year ahead, hearing from a variety of voices among our staff and leaders, as well as a word from Alan marking his first year as our pastor. Lunch will be $6.00/person. No reservation is required, but if you know you will be attending, please contact the office. We hope you will be a part of this celebration of our life together at First Baptist. September 2014 | 9
Connect with One Another If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1st Corinthians 12:26)
Responding to the Invitation
Wednesday, September 3 FBC Front Lawn, 5 - 7 pm • Burgers and Hot Dogs • $6/person–$20/family max. • No reservations needed • Games and activities on the Front Lawn
Joshua Childs (on July 27) By Baptism Over the years, I have thought many times about being baptized. I believed in God and wanted to follow Him, but something held me back. This summer, during our final worship service at Unidiversity, I felt the Lord speaking to me and telling me it was time to trust Him, and His plan for my life. I am ready to trust God’s plan for me and am excited about this next step.
Franklin & Dianna Cecil (on August 10) By Letter We have enjoyed the worship services and Oasis this summer. Becky Yaun and Ed Parkerson have been so informative and welcoming. The Explore First classes were very helpful in learning about FBC Greensboro and meeting the church leadership. Franklin and I feel so blessed being new members of this community in Christ.
10 | Connections
September Birthdays 1. Jake Barlow, Sarah Carter 2. Bill Cashion, Jim Clontz, Jim Deere, Amber Rhodes, Emily Sheffield, Robin Yaun 3. Fred Binder 4. Wesley Adams, Jr., Kilee Blakely, Joyce Burch, Paula Carter 5. Roberta Hartgrove, Aaron Lindsay 6. Mary Jane Beavers, Larry Chadwick, Grey Cockerham, Robb Wells 7. Charlotte Barnes, Dale Bias, Nancy Culclasure, Marty Hill, Marshall Johnson, David Marsh, Katherine Marsh 8. Marina Cothran, Lorie Rainey, Jack Sharp 9. Charles Hewitt, Hannah Persinger, Helen Stinson, Tyler Gail Wood 10. Joshua Childs, Merrill Norris, Matthew Sumner 11. Kenneth Bell, Margaret Wells 12. Barbara Brock, John Chandler, Zylpha Eagle 13. Blaine Bradford, Britt Isom, Marty Isom, Janice Newsom, Bill Walke, Clay Wilder, Bowen Young 14. John Raines, Jean Shore, Mabel Wiggins 15. Jeanelle Lindsay 16. Kubwayo Gervais, Perry Key, Glenda Koger, Frances Upchurch 17. Alan Bowers, Gordan Johnson, Christine Moore 18. Ryenne Blake, Wendy Camp, Kaylee Idol, Joan Ratliff, Alan Tutterow, Kim Youngdahl
19. David Canter, Kay Crawford, John Fisher, Barbara Harvell, Lorna Leigh Lanning, Craig Pannell, John Sample, Austin Worsley, Becky Yaun 20. John Hardy, Patricia Lambert, Faye Thompson, Terri Vancil, Jim Wayne, Bob Wiggins 21. Kate Austin, Isley Morrow, Tom Sears, Jr., Kim Taylor 22. Sidonna Black, Perry Steelman, Paul Stutts 23. Sandy Cole, Hannah Lynch, Evelyn Mitchell, Chuck Peeler, Trent Philpott 24. Mary Adams, Chris Culbreth, David Philpott, Zach Roberts, Jimmy Wiggins 25. Dorothy Lewis, Samuel Vaughan 26. Janet Caldwell, Kate Kitchen, Charles O’Bryant, Archie Williams 27. Haley Simmons Bohon, Mike Kalish 28. Bryce Fogleman, Earl Mitchell, Nancy Page, Todd Power 29. Fairey Horton, Kaye Tutterow 30. Kristen Beavers, Eleanor Manning, John Markham
Bereaved
• Mary Ann Henderson in the loss of her mother, Helen Creech, on June 17 • Lauten and Emily Crow in the loss of their grandmother, and Laura Lomax in the loss of her mother-in-law, Martha Crow, on July 26 • Ellis Vaughan in the loss of his father, Ellis Vaughan, Sr., on July 28
Sept ember @FBC
Regular Weekly Schedule
•September 1 – Church offices closed for Labor Day. •Wednesday, September 3 – Fall Kick-off Celebration: Food, Fun &
Sunday AM @FBC
Family Games. 5 - 7 pm, FBC Front Lawn (see page 10) Saturdays, September 6, 13, 20, 27 – Shower Ministry. 3 pm, Gym • Sunday, September 7 – Youth Ministry & Choir Kick Off. 4:30 pm, 108 (see page 5) • Sunday, September 7 – Deacon Ordination Service. 6 pm • September 12 14 – Middle School Retreat. Camp Caraway (see page 5) • Sundays, September 14, 21, 28 – Adult Teacher Education. 6 - 7:30 pm •
Sunday PM @FBC
•Sunday, September 21 – State of the Church Luncheon. 12 noon (see page 9) •Tuesday, September 23 – Friends Day Luncheon. 12 noon (see page 4) •September 26 - 27 – FBC Weekday School Consignment Sale. (Friday: 9 am - 7 pm, Saturday: 8 am - 1 pm) (see back page)
Study - 9:15 am • Bible Worship - 10:30 am •Guest Reception - 11:45 am (209) • Handbells: Grades 6-12, •Youth 4 pm, Sanctuary/313 Choir: Grades 6-12, 5 pm, 311 •Youth Children’s Handbells: Grades 4-5, •Time TBA, 313 Bible Drill, 6 pm •Children’s Youth Discipleship, •Adult Bells I, 6 pm 6 pm, 301 •Sunday School Teacher Training, •September 14, 21, 28, 6 pm •Sanctuary Choir, 7 pm, 311 Ensemble •Instrumental (3 Sundays), 7 pm, Sanctuary
(see page 8)
September Fellowship Meals 3: Hamburgers & Hotdogs on the Front Lawn, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Peach Cobbler 10: Pecan Encrusted Tilapia, Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Salad Bar / Kids: Fish Stix 17: Chicken Portofino, Orzo Pasta, Broccoli Casserole, Salad Bar / Kids: Chicken Nuggets 24: Fried Chicken, Baked Sweet Potato, Green Beans / Kids: Corndog Reminder: Make your meal reservations for the new year.
rd
Wednesdays@FBC
Meal - Dinner is •Fellowship served between 5-6:30 pm /
Reservations: Due Tuesday at 12 noon – 274.3286 or www.fbcgso.org/fellowshipmeal Kids’ Access - 6 pm Youth Forum - 6:15 pm Adult Access Classes - 6:15 pm Sanctuary Choir - 7:15 pm, 311
• • • •
Key:
Looking Ahead to October • October 1 - 5 – Upward pre-sign-up for FBC members. After October 5, open sign-ups. • October 3 - 5 – High School Retreat. Blue Ridge Assembly • Saturdays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 – Shower Ministry. 3 pm, Gym • October 5 – World Communion Sunday. • October 6 – PrimeTime. 9 am - 12 noon • October 19 – Missions Day & Fair. 12 noon, Fellowship Hall • October 19 – Crop Walk. 2:30 pm
Join the day trip to the
National D-Day Memorial, Bedford, VA Thursday, October 23, 2014 Leave FBC: 8 am - Return: 6 pm
Travel on Holiday Tour bus with a guided tour of the memorial. Cost: $49/person includes lunch. To sign up for this trip: Dolly Chesson– swchesson1@gmail.com / 545.7712 or Monica Vaughan– edwinv550@aol.com /402.1144.
•Adults •All Ages •Children •Seniors •Weekday School •Worship •Youth September 2014 | 11
First Bapt ist Church Greensboro 1000 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27401 www.fbcgso.org
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID GREENSBORO, NC NO. 179
First Baptist Church Weekday School
Second Time Around Consignment Sale Consign • Shop • Volunteer September 26 - 27
Friday - 9 am - 7 pm Saturday - 8 am - 1 pm (Half Price Day) The Weekday School’s semi-annual consignment sale features kid’s Fall/Winter clothing & shoes, toys, bikes, games, outdoor equipment, books, maternity clothing, nursery furniture, bedding, strollers and more! The “Mom’s Spot!” is a great place for ladies to consign your like-new fall/winter clothing, shoes, & accessories! Registration is open NOW if you would like to be a consignor. Consignors will earn 60% of their sales. If you consign and volunteer a minimum of 4 hours, you earn 70% of your sales! The remaining profits go to the FBC Weekday School Via Scholarship Fund which helps families who wouldn’t be able to attend our school without some financial assistance. There are many opportunities to shop, consign, and volunteer so find out how you can be involved in the Weekday School ministry to our community. There are registration links on the website or email the Consignment Team. Find us on www.fbcgso.org/consignment_sale / fbcsecondtimearound@gmail.com