Connections - March 2013 newsletter

MARCH 2013 // www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.3286

Easter is March 31 Holy Week schedule

first baptist church greensboro

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Emphasizing worship, spiritual development, fellowship, and ministry to our city and our world.

KEN MEDEMA in Concert @ FBC March 24 7 pm p4

March 2013

www.fbcgso.org 336.274.3286 1000 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401 April Connections Deadline: March 18 Kelly K ll Stephens, S h M Managing i Editor Ed di Communications Director C kkelly@fbcgso.org Gloria Koster, Design Manager G EEducation Ministry Assistant gloria@fbcgso.org g Steve Sumerel, Supervising Editor S Associate Pastor-Adult Learning A ssteves@fbcgso.org Teresa Allen, Media Library Director T tteresaa@fbcgso.org / x229 Ginny Carpenter, Weekday School Director G ginny@fbcgso.org / x240 g Steve Cothran S Associate Pastor-Youth/Families A sstevec@fbcgso.org / x235 Dolores Donahue D Administrative Assistant - Finance A dolores@fbcgso.org / x226 d JJaneAnne Hayber Music/Worship Assistant M jjaneanne@fbcgso.org a / x239 Monica Hix, Pastoral Assistant M monica@fbcgso.org / x231 m Marty Kellam, Food Services Director M m marty@fbcgso.org / x245 R Rosemary Kellam, Operations Director rrosemary@fbcgso.org / x225 K Kate Kitchen H Homebound Ministry Director kkatek@fbcgso.org / 202-5757

March Feat ures: 3

Welcome to Connections by Kelly Stephens inSight by Mike Queen Communicating at FBC by Kelly Stephens

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Worship@FBC

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Youth Fight Hunger & Poverty Consignment Sale by Kelly Cornett

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Putting Hospitality in Place by Mike Queem WE! Shelter Blesses Women by Anita Philpott

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Adult ACCESS Seminars by Steve Sumerel Day Trips by Dolly Chesson & Monica Vaughan Book News by Teresa Allen

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Spring Celebration & Bible Drill Youth News by Steve Cothran

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Sports & Recreation by Tommy Starnes Exercise by Carolyn Clontz

S Scott North, Business Administrator sscott@fbcgso.org / x222 S Steve Pressley, Associate Pastor sstevep@fbcgso.org / x231 M Mike Queen, Interim Pastor m mike@fbcgso.org / x231 V Virginia Reynolds A Assistant Pastor - Preschool/Children vvirginia@fbcgso.org / x241

by Erin Stephens

by Virginia Reynolds

M Marion Smith, Facilities Supervisor, x243 D Doug Vancil, Associate Pastor-Music/Worship d doug@fbcgso.org / x237 T Terri Vancil A Assistant Pastor-Music/Worship tterri@fbcgso.org / x238 S Shelly Worsley, Childcare Director sshelly@fbcgso.org / x293 2 Connections / March 2013

10 Fellowship Connections 11 Calendar 12 CBF General Assembly, Greensboro, NC

Introducing Connections!!

by Kelly Stephens e are proud to introduce our NEW monthly the online document allowing the reader to send an email newsletter, Connections, that replaces the biand to access websites for more information. You also have weekly publication, First Baptist News. We are the option to “share” the newsletter via your Facebook or excited about the “magazine-style” format which will provide Twitter. If you want to print any pages you will need to create you with more ministry information and articles about the a free online account. With an account you can also click the wonderful things that are happening here at First Baptist "subscribe" button to be notified of all publications that FBC Greensboro. publishes and have access to archive issues of the newsletter.

We are also introducing a new way for you to view Another option is to continue to read the newsletter online Connections online via www.ISSUU.com . This website allows and pick up a print copy from the information boards when you to view the newsletter in a magazine flip-page format - or you are at church. click the single page button at the top and view it one page Enjoy reading your first issue of Connections. We had a great time creating it for you! at a time. One great feature enables “active” links within

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Insight

During my thirty plus years of ministry it has always been the sermons on prayer that have

by Mike Queen generated the most inquiry and questions. People seem to ask for copies of those messages around prayer than anything else. I think the reason is clear.

We are a praying people. We pray a lot and often. We believe in the power of prayer. But while each and all of us can tell a story of prayer answered, we can also tell stories of prayers not answered …at least not in the fashion for which we had prayed. I have a friend who is a believer, but he does not pray. He says things happen as they will and that God does not contravene the laws of nature. A lot of people feel just exactly as he does. But many others would love to tell him of a time when God moved against all odds.

In a conversation with dear friend this week I got another insight into the world of prayer. He is a bit older than me and is facing a very difficult cancer diagnosis. The chemotherapy has weakened him greatly, but he was having

a good week post-treatment. He said, “Mike I do not mean to be overly pious when I say this, but the prayers of friends and family mean so much… and they do make a difference.”

These were words from a man who may well die from the cancer he has. They were also the words of a man who knows and has felt the power of prayer in his life and soul.

Prayer will always be the great conundrum of our faith. We will never fully understand it. Even Jesus, when he was in the garden asking God to let the cup of suffering pass him by, knew what it was like to not have a prayer answered.

From the cross he wondered why he had been forsaken. But in the end, he was able to say “Father…into your hands I commend my spirit.”

We will never have all of our prayers answered as we might wish, but we can be assured that God hears our prayers…that God is always with us…and that God has a view of eternity that we can never fully comprehend. So let us be faithful in our prayers…and trust God for the outcomes.

Prayer really does make a difference.

FBC Communications in an ever-changing media world

by Kelly Stephens he wonderful thing about communicating information to our FBC family and the community is the many ways we have to reach people in today’s multi-media driven world. Likewise, the challenge is that there are numerous ways people like to receive information and those are constantly changing and evolving. We have learned that there is no one preferred method and it is best to communicate in a variety of ways. That being said, we are using many ways to get information to you about the ministries and events happening at FBC. We have two primary sources for presenting information: • Newsletter (Connections) - Some members have the newsletter mailed to their home or just pick up a copy from one of the information boards. Some read the newsletter online at www.fbcgso.org/firstbaptist_newsletter in an effort to “go green.”

• Website - two years ago we launched a “new” design that is always evolving with new information - www.fbcgso.org Other communications methods to provide updates and to highlight specific ministry opportunties include: • Constant Contact Mass Emails - with people who have access to email on their “smart phones”, we have started using Constant Contact as a way of sending more visually appealing emails that contain links and photos.

• PhoneTree Messaging - able to send pre-recorded phone messages to your home.

• Facebook Pages - you can “like” the Church and the College department pages and receive updates and event notices.

• Facebook Groups - you can “join” the Church and Youth department groups and even post status updates to share with your First Baptist family.

• Twitter - the newest way is to follow FBC on Twitter - @fbcgso When you are in the building, just look around because we are trying to provide information while you are here too.

• Atrium TV messaging - upcoming announcements/events.

• Information Carousel/Boards - located in the Atrium, outside the office, and in the Children’s wings.

• Graphic Information Posters - located on the walls throughout the building.

• Bulletin Insert - weekly information of upcoming events and happenings in the worship bulletin.

These are just some of the current ways that we are keeping you informed today . . . be sure of one thing, this too may change!

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March 2013 / Connections 3

Holy Week Connect with Worship

March 24 – Palm Sunday

Worship with Ken Medema and Sanctuary Choir. 10:30 am, Sanctuary.

Gather before Worship on the front steps and process into the Sanctuary with palms.

Ken Medema in Concert. 7 pm, Sanctuary. See more below.

March 28 – Maundy Thursday Maundy Thursday Service with Sanctuary Choir.

7 pm, Sanctuary. Reflect upon the sorrow of Jesus’ crucifixion with the Lord’s Supper.

March 31 – Easter Sunday Worship. 10:30 am, Sanctuary. Celebrate our Risen Lord!

Bring a bell from home to ring each time the word “Alleluia” is sung or spoken. Bring a fresh flower to decorate the cross and place them in the receiving baskets in the Atrium and Children's Wing entrances during the Sunday School hour.

Church office is closed April 1 for the Easter holiday.

Hundreds of youth, awesome leadership, great sounds–

CBF of NC Youth Choir Festival March 1 - 2 Closing Concert/Worship Saturday, March 2 2 pm in the Sanctuary Approximately 200 NC youth gather at FBC Greensboro each spring to rehearse and present a closing worship/concert that is open to the public. This year Doug and Terri Vancil will direct the festival and the closing concert will be on Saturday, March 2. Attending from other states are the youth choirs from Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Atlanta and First Baptist Church in Chattanooga. Both choirs will sing in worship with our youth choir on Sunday, March 3.

4 Connections / March 2013

Ken Medema in Concert Sunday, March 24 7 pm, FBC Sanctuary

Free Concert– Open to the Public Ken Medema, pianist and vocalist, st, will be our special guest on Sunday, day, March 24.

A native of Michigan, Ken Medema studied voice and keyboard at Michigan State University where he earned a degree in music therapy. For four ur decades Ken has inspired people e through storytelling and music.

Though blind from birth, Ken sees and hears with heart and mind, custom designing every musical moment of his vocal and d piano performance with brilliantt improvisation.

Don't miss this unique worship experience singing our life stories on Palm Sunday!

Connect with Missions/Outreach

Youth Fighting Hunger & Poverty

By Erin Stephens, FBC 11th Grader

O

ver the past two months, our 11th and 12th grade Sunday School classes have been raising money for a Christian humanitarian organization called “World Vision.” This program works to fight hunger and poverty in third-world countries by delivering livestock for farming, medicine, and other necessities. This our second year doing mission work for this program, and we have been very successful!

On Sunday mornings in December, we visited multiple adult Sunday School classes to explain our mission project. We are grateful for the generous donations from members of our congregation, that helped us raise a grand total of $1,635. This money was used to order 16 chickens, 9 goats, a cow, a donkey, and medicine. The World Vision team decides what areas of the world and families need our donations the most, and sends them overseas. Although we do not know exactly where the animals and medicine were sent to, we can trust that God delivered to those who needed them most. Thank you all so much for your continued support of the First Baptist youth group and the missions we pursue. For more information about World Vision, visit their website - www.worldvision.org

Consignment Sale Helps Families

By Kelly Cornett

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he Second Time Around Consignment sale is right around the corner! On March 8th and 9th, our gymnasium will be bustling with families from our Weekday School, church and community shopping for deals on children’s spring/summer clothing, toys, nursery items, and much, much more.

All proceeds from the sale will go towards the FBC Weekday School Via Scholarship Fund. The scholarship was established in the 1970’s in memory of FBC member, Bill Via, whose wife, Roberta, was a preschool teacher. The Via Scholarship Fund is awarded to families that would not be able to attend our school without some financial assistance. Presently, scholarships range from $50 to $500 per month. We are currently serving 12 families and 14 children.

In the spring of 2011 there was an increase in scholarship applications and a lack of funds to support all of the requests.

The Weekday School Advisory Board sprang into action hosting several donation-only luncheons after worship service and approving a children’s consignment sale to help supplement the fund. After months and months of planning, the first sale was held in the spring of 2012. Proceeds from the sale contributed $3,300 to the Via Scholarship Fund. The second sale, in the fall of 2012, contributed $4,300! We are excited to see what 2013 holds!

This sale brings in people from our church, weekday school and community tagging and selling their gently used children’s items. The consignor earns 60% of their profits with the remaining 40% donated to the scholarship. To encourage consignors to also volunteer to work the week of the sale, their earnings are increased to 70% for volunteering a minimum of 6 hours. Volunteers are essential to the success of each sale.

Converting the gym to a sales floor, checking in consignors,

assisting customers, running registers, along with many other tasks takes a number of volunteers! Moms, dads, grandparents, church members, weekday school staff – all are welcome and encouraged to volunteer!

This sale would never be what it is without the support of our church staff, congregation, and Weekday School parents.

Volunteers on our planning committee are awed by the support of our church staff! We feel truly blessed to have them!

The Second Time Around Consignment Sale has not only made generous contributions to the Via, but it has also allowed us to begin building relationships with those not directly involved with FBC or our Weekday School. Sale week brings a great number of visitors to our church campus. Many are very complimentary of our facility and the friendliness of our volunteers, church members, and staff. Several families in our church began their journey with FBC through their children attending our Weekday School. We have 2 or 3 Weekday School families that now attend our Wednesday evening activities. In the same sense, we have had parents inquiring about our Weekday School through their participation in the consignment sale. Both the school and sale have been actively reaching out to those who may be looking for a church home.

We appreciate your support, encouraging words, and prayers as this sale continues to grow. This is a fantastic opportunity for our church family to show our support of the Weekday School by volunteering a few hours to either greet shoppers, work at a check out station, or by walking the sales floor talking with and assisting our shoppers.

For volunteer opportunities, contact Kelly Cornett or Blaine Bradford - email fbcsecondtimearound@gmail.com or go to the FBC website - www.fbcgso.org/consignment_sale and click on the "Volunteer Sign-up" link.

March 2013 / Connections 5

Connect and Serve

Putting Hospitality in Place

By Mike Queen

T

he proliferation of hotels and restaurants has morphed into the so-called "hospitality industry".

Many restaurants have greeters, door openers and people to seat their guests.

The wait staff always tells you their name.

Many hotels now provide breakfast for guests. They even have a tooth brush in case you forgot yours. If they do their work well, they make you to feel welcome and as "at home" as one can feel in such places. They practice hospitality.

In the church we attempt to do the same thing… practice hospitality. But hospitality is more than being friendly.

The first thing we must do, so far as it is possible, is to put ourselves in the shoes of the guests who come our way. First Baptist Greensboro is a large church; and whether we like to admit it or not, it can be quite an intimidating place for guests.

The problem, of course, is that all of us know our way around FBC…both literally and figuratively. We know the children’s area is as far away as it can be from the parking lot and the doors most folk enter. We know where ‘our’ Sunday School class is. We know the rituals of our worship…how communion is shared…how baptism is conducted. To many guests, all of this is a mystery.

Several weeks ago a group of FBC members gathered to talk about hospitality and how we put it into practice at FBC. In all of their discussions the group tried to see things from the perspective of a guest. Several changes have been implemented already. One of the things we learned was that

guests do not like being identified. That is why many of them did not raise their hands when the ushers were passing out guest cards. Now those cards are in the pews and they can fill them out without drawing attention to themselves.

We are now getting many more cards filled out each Sunday. Second, we have added worship greeters in the Atrium to complement our ushers who greet in the narthex. Third, we have begun a guest reception immediately following the worship service in the parlor. Since that was begun in September, we greet multiple guests virtually every Sunday. It has been a crucial step to getting contact information to follow up with our guests.

On Monday morning, the pastor sends a note to each guest. Every week our deacons make a personal contact with each visitor. Someone on staff is also now assigned to follow up with each person or family. They often find someone in the church to help orient them to and nurture their relationship with the church. Another part of the team is looking at our signage, our parking lot, and a host of other things that a guest might encounter on a visit to FBC. All of this is to say that we are trying to be ‘intentional’ in the practice of hospitality in ways that are winsome to our guests.

“The first thing we must do is to put ourselves in the shoes of the guests who come our way.”

WE! Shelter Blesses Women Residents

By Anita Philpott

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uring the first three months of the WE! Women’s Shelter, over 1,000 volunteer hours have been logged by FBC members and friends. What a blessing it has been to help the 47 different women who have resided there. As we enter the last month of the Winter Emergency Shelter, please be in prayer for those women who are beginning new jobs or still looking for jobs. In the words of Site Manager Jan Hill, “Thanks be to God for this opportunity to serve women who need this resting place on their journey.”

Lynne Greene, Ann Wilson, Catherine Pressley, NEW VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY! Do you want to be a part of this ministry, but you and Monica Vaughan serving dinner. can’t stay overnight? There is a new volunteer slot listed on the sign-up website for Hospitality Volunteers. Persons serving as Hospitality Volunteers work 5:30-9:30 each evening to help make sure the guests have what they need and to assist with miscellaneous tasks as needed. Hospitality Volunteers may help distribute supplies to guests, assist with meal set up, and do other tasks that are helpful to the staff and residents. Check the FBC website to see available opportunities to serve - www.fbcgso.org/we_shelter DONATIONS NEEDED: Umbrellas, Styrofoam cups, money for bus passes and utilities.

6 Connections / March 2013

Connect with Adults

Three Exciting Access Seminars Begin on March 20

By Steve Sumerel

#1: Reading Ruth and Esther– This Bible study will focus upon the only two books of the Bible named for women.

“Reading Ruth and Esther” will afford insight into God’s providential care of his people. Interestingly, the Book of Esther– which never mentions God’s name–depicts God as one who clearly orchestrates the events of his people’s lives.

Led by Steve Pressley in the Chapel, through May 29.

#2: There’s Something About the Mind– This seminar unpacks the wonderful anatomy, functions, challenges and mysteries in one of God’s greatest creations…our mind. You are invited to be part of a seminar that explores the wide spectrum of ways our brains learn and the impact brain differences have on relationships, learning styles, memory and more. As a pediatrician Dr. Bensimhon has the medical training to give us an in-depth understanding of this miraculous organ. As a parent, she is passionate to provide information and skills which will help each of us each excel as God’s children. Led by Pamela Bensimhon, MD in room 108, through May 8.

#3: Important Concepts in Christian Theology– This seminar will examine such topics as the Trinity, the nature of Sin, the meaning of salvation and other key concepts of Christian belief. Led by Steve Sumerel in room 102, through May 8.

Day Trips Are Scheduled – Everyone Is Invited to Go!

By Dolly Chesson and Monica Vaughan

Paul J. Ciener Botanical Gardens on Tuesday, April 2 Trip includes lunch at Graylyn Inn in Winston-Salem. $49/person lunch with tour. Leave FBC at 9:30 am and return around 4:30 pm.

• Old Salem with Tom and Sara Sears on Thursday, May 23 $24/person. Lunch at Salem Tavern. Leave FBC 9 am/Return 5 pm.

• Wohlfart Haus Dinner Theatre on Thursday, June 13 See "Showboat." $49/person. Leave FBC 9 am/Return 6:30 pm.

To sign up, contact Dolly Chesson, swchesson1@gmail.com / 545.7712 or Monica Vaughan, edwinv550@aol.com / 323.0335.

Sign-up online - “Events” link on FBC website: www.fbcgso.org

Library Connections

By Teresa Allen

Curious George’s Dictionary from the editors of the American Heritage Dictionaries A Home for Bird by Philip Christian Stead– Vernon the toad takes the silent Bird on a journey to find Bird’s home.

This Moose Belongs To Me by Oliver Jeffers– A boy learns that moose do not always follow proper behavior.

MAIN LIBRARY “Who Could That Be at This Hour?” by Lemony Snicket– Thirteen year old Lemony Snicket in the tiny dot of a town called Stain’d By the Sea helps investigate the theft of a statue.

The Shoemaker’s Wife by Adriana Trigiani– Two star-crossed lovers meet and separate, until, finally, the power of their love changes both of their lives forever.

The People’s Pharmacy: Quick and Handy Home Remedies by Joe and Terry Graedon– This book includes questions and answers for your common ailments and recipes are also included.

Shaped by God’s Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches by Milfred Minatrea– This book talks about how missional churches live their passion and the nine essential practices of missional churches.

Strength for the Journey: Biblical Wisdom for Daily Living, A New Collection of Sermons by Peter J. Gomes

DONATED BOOKS The Ten Commandments: The Significance of God’s Laws in Everyday Life by Dr. Laura Schlessing and Rabbi Stewart Vogel One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus– An assembly of pioneer women who, under the auspices of the U.S. government, travel to the western prairies in 1875 to intermarry among the Cheyenne Indians.

Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War by Nathaniel Philbrick– The story of the Pilgrims is more than the well-known tale of piety and sacrifice...dominated from the start by issues of race, violence, and religion.

New Library Books

CHILDREN’S LIBRARY

March 2013 / Connections 7

By Virginia Reynolds

Kids’ Connections

Spring Celebration Saturday, March 23, 3-5 pm, FBC Front Lawn

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esus’ command to Nicodemus was, “You must be born again." In the John 3 story, the Jewish scholar was questioning Jesus about the miracle of life and rebirth. Science can tell us much about physical life, but the origin of life itself is still a mysterious miracle to us. Every year, God replays this miracle before our eyes. Flowers arise from the ground. Trees cover their limbs with leaves and flowers. Birds are born from a hard shelled egg, and other animals arrive from a parent’s womb.

Spring is God’s picture of rebirth and new beginnings. Our society’s marketing efforts are so wrapped up in Easter Eggs and bunnies that many use them as symbols of Easter. Although they are a picture of new life, they alone are not worth celebrating. New life is a gift from God – physical and spiritual. Jesus’ resurrection at the first Easter was a picture of regeneration – being born again.

At “Spring Celebration” children and their families will enjoy a chance to experience God’s creation as they pet animals from a petting zoo, make spring crafts, plant flowers, play games, explore nature, and more.

Ken Medema will be our guest story-teller and musician as we explore the miracle of life that God has given us.

FBC Bible Drill Competition

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Sunday, March 10, 6:30 pm, Chapel

any of us recall a verse of scripture when we find ourselves in need of encouragement or reassurance. But how do we find our way through the Bible when we are seeking answers? Some children at FBC accomplish this as a team. Sundays during the school year, the Bible Drill team meets with their coach/teacher, Christy Jones to study verses and passages, committing them to memory and heart. Each of the three years in the program, children are encouraged to memorize 25 verses, identify and locate 10 passages, and become familiar with all 66 books of the Bible. This allows them to find any referenced Bible book or Biblical passage in 10 seconds or less.

During the Bible Drill Competition, the Bible Drill Team will be in action. Team members who show a proficient mastery of the skills will be invited to participate in Associational level and state level drills on March 24 and April 13, respectively. All are invited to the annual drill to encourage our children as they learn the words of God. 2013 Team members: Ginny Barnes; Justin Childs; Parker Hall; Christopher Lyle; Kyleigh Pegram; and Lauren Worsley.

Youth Connections

What’s Up with FBC Youth . . .

By Steve Cothran

Unidiversity 2013 July 22-27, University of Tennessee Cost is $300 for an incredible week of fun and learning about God with friends from churches all over the southeast. Ask anyone who’s been! Unidiversity is an unforgettable experience that will grow your faith! A $75 deposit reserves your spot and you may sign up online at www.fbcgso.org/youth.

MissioNcbf Since the FBC Youth Choir will be an integral part of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship General Assembly that will meet in Greensboro at the Convention Center this summer, we are finding North Carolina mission projects for the first part of the week and will serve at those Monday through Wednesday. We will then participate in the fun CBF activities that are designed specifically for youth on Thursday and Friday. Cost is approximately $100. Sign up through the youth webpage.

Valentine Banquet Kudos! Thank you to our Director Susan Steelman and all of the other parents/volunteers who helped make this year’s Reel Love Valentine Banquet such an “award winning” success! We had wonderful participation, a full house, a delicious meal, and an entertaining show that raised over $2,500 for Youth Missions!

8 Connections / March 2013

Valentine Banquet Memories

Connect with Recreation Ministry

Recreation

…Ministry that gives back

By Tommy Starnes, Upward and CBL Director

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s we get ready to end our fifth season of Upward giving back. I believe it is my job to integrate these youth into Basketball and Cheerleading, I would like to reflect on prominent roles within the program as they grow older. the past seasons leading up to this year: Personally, I stand very committed to the value of As far as numbers are concerned, we started with Upward and CBL (Church Basketball League) ministries. 17 80 participants and flourished to as many as 175. We had 10 years ago, all it took was an invitation to join the First Baptist coaches the first year, and 34 this year. Our average Upward softball team to get me interested in the various recreation skate night attendance is 160, and I have seen ministries. As my family grew, it was important for more visitors in our church service this year than in and me to know we had a place to bring our If I could make Becky years past. Little did I know that my son’s devotion kids where they could learn from a church family last week would put all this in perspective when he a difference in that Christ could be the center of their sports stated, “If I could make a difference in one child’s one child’s life, experiences. life, then I have done my job.”

God has given us the talents and the When it comes to involvement, I have seen then I have facilities since 1963 to use recreation as a tool for many of our church members come out of their families. done my job. other comfort zone to coach teams, witness to visitors, I believe between Upward, the Café space, the and serve in our many volunteer roles throughout exercise rooms, ceramics, CBL, etc., that we the program. Many of these same folks have passionately have an obligation to provide programs and activities to participated in mission trips and other mission opportunities a population in need of a safe, religious environment. We our church offers. These volunteer roles serve as the have many non-church members come through the gym backbone of this program to which I am most grateful. doors hungry for a positive recreational experience. Any Upward serves as a training ground for our youth as opportunity we can take to reach these folks through our well. Many youth volunteer on Saturday mornings to score, various programs could correlate into positive church and referee, coach, and cleanup. Some do it for service hours, spiritual growth. but most do it because it was done for them and they are Isn’t that why we are here?

“

”

Burn a Few Calories at the FBC Gym

By Carolyn Clontz

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uesday and Thursday mornings between 8 - 9 am, you will find a faithful group at the FBC gym using low impact aerobics, hand weights, and elastic bands for stretching and strengthening. This class is a fun way to fill the need for fitness and fellowship!! The class is open to everyone and FREE! Leader: Carolyn Clontz, 288-3216, jwcqclontz@gmail.com

The Mayo Clinic cites these benefits of regular exercise: 1. Exercise controls weight: it prevents excess weight gain/helps maintain weight loss. 2. Exercise combats health conditions and diseases: regular exercise keeps your blood flowing smoothly which decreases your risk of cardiovascular diseases. 3. Exercise boosts energy: regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. 4. Exercise promotes better sleep: regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and aids in deeper sleep. 5. Exercise can be fun: it gives you the chance to unwind and try something new.

March 2013 / Connections 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 on February 10

Carol and John Matthews

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by Statement

Birthdays C B

MARCH 1: Nell Beavers, Stan Decker, Stephanie Stutts MARCH 2: Peter Evenson, James Henderson, III, Susannah Townes MARCH 3: Rhonda Allison, Gavin Cole, Jimmie Foxworth, Jean Fuqua MARCH 4: Jack Foxworth, Sara Massey, Karen Spivey MARCH 5: Phyllis Abee, Will Barnes, Chuck Cranford, Garland Gordon, Charles Jones, Tammy Miller MARCH 6: Monica Hix, David Ryan, Frank York MARCH 7: John Clark, Madeline Fenn, Ron Hooper, Julianna King MARCH 8: Marie Binder, Deborah Gilliland, Sylvia Hough MARCH 9: Wade Adkins, Kenneth Eddins, Shirley Glisson MARCH 10: Norma Kibler, Betty Lusk, Dot Sperber MARCH 11: Wilma Cox, Cathy Isom MARCH 12: Gary Anderson MARCH 13: Larry Davis, Becky Stanley, Allison Twigg

10 Connections / March 2013

MARCH 14: Jeff Austin, Ashley Carter, Sandy Frost, Anne Gurley, Elaine McCall, Lyndsey Pegram, Nicholas Powell, Jeannie Singley, Ruthie Tutterow MARCH 15: Louise Baity, Seth Ryan Macon, Laurie Nipper, Baxter Riddleberger, Vernon Wimberley MARCH 16: Alec Carter, Tom Townes MARCH 17: Alan Rhodes MARCH 18: Emily Crow, Dwight Fickling MARCH 19: Dolly Chesson, Dixon Crews, Lawrence Glisson, Dorothy Hellen, Joseph May, Dorothy Patterson MARCH 20: Valerie Wooten MARCH 21: Wesley Cranford, Ellen Curlee, Carolyn Grassi, Kristie Phillips, Robert Stutts, Ginny Sykes MARCH 22: June Bullington, Ruth Howerton, Seth Macon, Leta Robinson, Lib Smith, Frank Wilson MARCH 23: Joyce Beech, Anne Cober, Debra Hildebrand, Bettie Williams, Melinda Wood MARCH 24: Alice Angell, Ginny Capps, April Pegram, Dee Tanner MARCH 25: Andrew Angell, Linda Morton MARCH 26: Emily Myrick, Sally Skidmore MARCH 27: Merle Frazier, David Teague MARCH 28: Renee Maness, Kim Phillips, Jerry Thompson MARCH 29: Grayson Absher, Barbara Blowe, Jackie Creed, Deanna Pegram MARCH 30: John Butts, Bobbie Carter, Lester Nunn, William Petitt, Kathy Shropshire, Bethany Spivey MARCH 31: Edith Edmonds, Gelly Long, Megan Webb, Judyth White, Seth Wilson

Births: Raina Rebecca Gould Born February 8 Proud Parents: Meganne & Jason Gould

College Birthdays: Stephanie Stutts Birthday: March 1 2506 Gracewood Drive, Greensboro, 27408, 336.501.0830

Heather Outlaw Birthday: March 7 7714 UNCG Station, Greensboro, 27413, 919.818.2406, hloutlaw@uncg.edu

Wade Adkins Birthday: March 9 3403 Donnington Court, Greensboro, 27407-7345, 336.852.0601

Baxter Riddleberger Birthday: March 15 4400 North Danby Castle Road, Greensboro, 27407-6432 336.299.0694, lbriddle@uncg.edu

Emily Crow Birthday: March 18 2230 Granville Towers South, Chapel Hill, 27514, 336.587.0455

Dixon Crews Birthday: March 19 16319 Sullivan Hall, Raleigh, 27607

Grayson Absher Birthday: March 29 P. O. Box 6511, 1834 Wake Forest Road, Winston-Salem, 27109, gbabsher@gmail.com

Seth Wilson Birthday: March 31 The Woodlands of Columbia, 1050 Southern Drive, Unit 316, Columbia, SC 29201, 336.580.0680, wilsonps@email.sc.edu

Bereaved: • Gary Cole in the loss of his sister, and Kevin Cole in the loss of his aunt, Loretta Thompson, on February 6 • The family of Peggy Arnold, on February 10 • The family of Keith Rhodes, on February 13 • Derek Manning in the loss of his father, Jack Manning •Tyler Gail and Jaret Wood in the loss of their grandfather, William Kent Wood, on February 13 • The family of Ed Gunn, on February 22 • Geneva Metzger in the loss of her sister Margaret DelMonaco, on February 21

Daylight savings time begins March 10 Turn your clocks ahead one hour when you go to bed Saturday night, March 9.

March 1 - 2

March 8 - 9

March 31 – Easter Sunday

CBF Youth Choir Festival, FBC (article on page 3)

Second Time Around Consignment Sale. Friday: 9 am - 7 pm, Saturday: 8 am - 1 pm, in Gym. (article on page 5)

Church Conference and Cuisine.

12 noon, 108. No reservations are necessary. $6/person - $20/family max.

Worship. 10:30 am, Sanctuary.

Celebrate our Risen Lord! Bring a bell to ring when "Alleluia" is sung or spoken. Also bring a fresh flower to decorate the cross and place them in the receiving baskets in the Atrium and Children's Wing entrances during the Sunday School hour.

March 23

Church office is closed April 1 for the Easter holiday.

Friday, March 1: 7 pm - Registration 7:30 - 9 pm - Rehearsal Saturday, March 2: 9 am - Rehearsal 11:45 am - Lunch 12:30 pm - Final Rehearsal 2 pm - Closing Concert/Worship The Closing Concert is free and open to the community.

March 3, 10, 17, 24 (4 Sundays) Explore 1st class. 9:15 am, Room 209.

Find out what FBC is all about! Learn FBC history and Baptist beliefs. Meet staff and others interested in learning about FBC. This class is for visitors, non-members actively participating in FBC life, and new members.

March 4 PrimeTime. 9 am - Noon activities.

9 am - Ceramics, Gym 9:30 am - Prayer Shawl Knitting, 108-A 11 am - Bible Study, 218 12 noon - Lunch, 108. Program features Pastor K’Them and Nai Suong Touprong and their son, Simon.

March 10

Spring Celebration. 3 pm, FBC. Stories, crafts, and games help to celebrate the new life of the Spring season and reminds us of the new life we find through Jesus’ resurrection.

Walking children through 5th grade are invited to be part of this FBC tradition.

Ken Medema will be our guest story-teller and musician. (article on page 8)

March 24 – Palm Sunday Worship with Ken Medema and Sanctuary Choir. 10:30 am, Sanctuary.

Gather before Worship on the front steps and process into the Sanctuary with palms. Ken Medema in Concert. 7 pm, Sanctuary. See the article on page 3 for more information.

March 28 Maundy Thursday Service. 7 pm, Sanctuary. Worship the Lord as you reflect upon the sorrow of His crucifixion.

Key: Adults All Ages Children Seniors Weekday School Worship Youth

Sundays@FBC Bible Study: 9:15 am Worship: 10:30 am  YOUTH Bells, 4 pm; Choir, 5 pm; Discipleship, 6:15 pm  CHILDREN Bells (4th/5th), 5 pm; Bible Drill, 6 pm  ADULTS Bells I, 6 pm; Sanctuary Choir, 7 pm

WednesdayNights@FBC Fellowship Meal– 5 pm Kids’ Access– 6 pm Youth Forum– 6:15 pm Adult Access Classes– 6:15 pm Adult Bells II– 6:15 pm Sanctuary Choir– 7:15 pm March 2013 / Connections 11

First Bapt ist Church Greensboro 1000 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27401 www.fbcgso.org

Join us June 26-28 in Greensboro, N.C., at the Sheraton Hotel and Joseph S. Koury Convention Center Register online now — www.thefellowship.info/assembly

Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE PAID GREENSBORO, NC NO. 179