Connections - July 2013 newsletter

JULY 2013 // www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.3286

first baptist church greensboro

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FBC Divinity Student Lesley-Ann Hix

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

Raise your hands and serve . . .

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whatever your gifts and talents are, they are meant to be used in service to others.

A Christian perspective from 1 Peter 4.10

www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.3286 1000 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401 August Connections Deadline: July 17 Email news to kelly@fbcgso.org or bring it to the church office.

Kelly Stephens, Managing Editor Communications Director kelly@fbcgso.org / x223 Gloria Koster, Design Manager Education Ministry Assistant gloria@fbcgso.org / x288 Steve Sumerel, Supervising Editor Associate Pastor - Adult Learning steves@fbcgso.org / x233 Teresa Allen, Media Library Director teresaa@fbcgso.org / x229 Ginny Carpenter, Weekday School Director ginny@fbcgso.org / x240 Steve Cothran, Associate Pastor - Youth/Families stevec@fbcgso.org / x235 Dolores Donahue, Administrative Assistant - Finance dolores@fbcgso.org / x226 Jane Anne Hayber, Music/Worship Assistant janeanne@fbcgso.org / x239 Monica Hix, Pastoral Assistant monica@fbcgso.org / x231

July 2013 3 Insight | by Mike Queen Deacons Report | by Laura Lomax

4-5 Cover: Connect through Service –Recycle for Baptist Children’s Homes |

by Shirley Thompson –Serve through StepUp Ministry |

by Shirley Thompson –Peanut Butter and Jelly Are Needed –5th Wednesday Grace Fellowship Meal |

by Jack Steelman –BackPack Beginnings Needs Volunteers |

by Susan Steelman

6-7 Connect with Adults –Day Trips | by Steve Pressley –FBC Adult Learning Ministry News |

by Steve Sumerel

7 Connect with Business 8 Profile of FBC Divinity Student Lesley-Ann Hix | by Lesley-Ann Hix

Marty Kellam, Food Services Director marty@fbcgso.org / x245

9 Connect with Children |

Rosemary Kellam, Operations Director rosemary@fbcgso.org / x225

Connect with Youth |

Kate Kitchen, Homebound Ministry Director katek@fbcgso.org / 202-5757 Scott North, Business Administrator scott@fbcgso.org / x222 Steve Pressley, Associate Pastor stevep@fbcgso.org / x231 Mike Queen, Interim Pastor mike@fbcgso.org / x231 Virginia Reynolds, Assistant Pastor - Preschool/Children virginia@fbcgso.org / x241 Marion Smith, Facilities Supervisor, x243 Doug Vancil, Associate Pastor - Music/Worship doug@fbcgso.org / x237 Terri Vancil, Assistant Pastor - Music/Worship terri@fbcgso.org / x238 Shelly Worsley, Childcare Director shelly@fbcgso.org / x293 2 | Connections

by Virginia Reynolds

by Steve Cothran

10 Connect with One Another 11 July Calendar 12 Back Cover –Summer Reading | by Teresa Allen

...and a little child will lead them.

(Isaiah 11.6)

BY MIKE QUEEN

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o much happens in the life of a congregation that few people ever see. As I write these words in the middle of June, today has been one of those days. One of our members had to have emergency surgery last night (actually at 3 am in the morning). In the chaos of being transported from one hospital to another, of arranging for child care, of letting family know what is going on and of trying to be there for your loved one, you try to keep your wits so you can talk and listen with doctors about all the decisions that must be made in an instant. In order to do all of that, we sometimes need help. But people need to know what you need from them before they can help. In this case, the spouse asked for help at 1:30 in the morning.

The wonderful staff of First Baptist, both ministers and support staff, sprang into action. With one minister out of town, everyone else stepped up. At 2 am the child was dropped off at a staff member’s home. At 3 am one of the ministers showed up at the hospital to sit with the concerned spouse. By the time I got

the word and arrived at the hospital, three other members of the staff and a deacon who works at the hospital were there. After the spouse had heard from the surgeon and everyone was about to scatter, I was asked to offer a prayer.

Those are holy moments in the life of a minister. As we joined hands in a circle, we all got reminded of just how connected and interdependent we are. Somewhere in the prayer I said ‘and help them to know that they have a whole church full of folks remembering them today’. When we finished the prayer, the spouse turned to me and said, ‘we really do have a church like that…I wish I had taped that prayer so she could hear it.’ It was just one event, and even though it was quite serious, the response of this church was amazing. The phone calls from church members came into the office all day long wanting updates on the patient’s condition.

This was the church being the church at its best. No one had to organize anything. Everyone simply did what needed to be done. But there is one important lesson in this story. None of this would have happened had the man not asked for help. You have a wonderful caring staff. Don’t ever hesitate to call on them…when you need them…even at 1:30 in the morning. The work of the Lord goes on 24/7.

Deacons Make Plans for Moving Our Church Forward

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BY LAURA LOMAX

his year your deacons have challenged one another to consider four important questions, which reflect areas in which we believe God is leading our church to change and grow. Deacons have been meeting as small subcommittees to pray about, brainstorm, and develop action plans in response to the questions. The four questions and suggested action plans were reported during our church conferences in May and June:

1. How can our church be more intentional about being truly led by the Spirit of God? We believe that God is leading our church to be more missional in nature. In order to stay in touch with the Holy Spirit’s leading, we must continue to disciple our members in prayer, and to emphasize the role of prayer in our committees, our small groups, and our Sunday School gatherings. We’d like to see our congregation undertake a “one church, one book” style of study (using, as one example, the Richard Foster book Prayer). We would also suggest to our new pastor a sermon series on prayer, to be presented sometime during the next year. Moreover, we sense the need to educate ourselves about the person and work of the Holy Spirit. And we recommend more personal stories/testimonies from our members during worship services.

2. What are we doing now in missions, and how do we determine other missions opportunities in which we should be involved? Our missions organizations are moving toward greater vitality, with the joining of the Missions Partnerships and Great Commission Fund committees into a single Missions Committee. That committee is carefully examining our current missions, as well as reviewing requests for funding from new or growing missions opportunities. Our deacons recently approved the formation of a new missions team that will serve the StepUp ministry, which provides job readiness training and ongoing life skills training and mentoring to Greensboro residents who are jobless, and often homeless. (See article on page 4.) We have recommended and endorsed the appointment of a new, paid staff Missions Coordinator position. We also intend to host a missions fair this fall, in order to communicate to our church the missions in which we are involved, and to engage members to get involved in those missions as God leads.

3. How do we reach those members who have lost energy and/or commitment, and involve them in the life of our church? We agree that the personal touch is the best here. Sunday School classes are often the groups that are most intimately involved with their members, and personal outreach from class members is the best avenue for contact. We also believe that an every-member canvass can be undertaken, in order to find out what members’ needs are, and to encourage them. Quarterly church socials are proposed as well, in order to ensure that we have avenues in addition to Sunday School for social engagement. Also, in the interest of being proactive with our NEW members, we recommend a mentoring program, which would identify their spiritual gifts and get them involved in missions and ministry, while providing small groups for their involvement.

(We have already begun this mentoring program, thanks to our New Member Team of deacons.)

4. How can we achieve more effective communication within our church, and between our church and our community?

The ways we can communicate to our FBC community are changing and growing because of technology. This is great because it allows us to communicate in different ways. To be effective, the information on the website, Facebook, twitter, etc. has to be accurate which requires continuous updating of the most current information. As laity, we are learning the best ways to share information— newsletter, Sunday School announcements/flyers, information boards, phone tree messaging, and through online technologies like email, Facebook, Twitter, FBC website, etc. while remembering that not everyone receives information in the same way. We want to share more about the membership’s involvement in more than 50 missions enterprises by highlighting them in the newsletter and hearing about them on Sunday morning. We hope to establish a clear process for bringing ministry opportunities to fruition and believe a Missions Coordinator and the new Missions Committee will help with this process.

July 2013 | 3

Connect through Service

Serve:

“to render assistance; be of use; help” FBC’s mission statement emphasizes worship, spiritual development, fellowship, and ministry to our city and our world. Sometimes this means serving others by going to Jordan to help out in a Habitat build. Other times it might mean buying a few extra non-perishable groceries on a shopping trip so that those less fortunate can put dinner on the table. FBC members have a track record for helping those in need. Here are some ways in which almost all of us can make a difference in someone’s life.

Recycle for Baptist Children’s Homes of NC

BY SHIRLEY THOMPSON

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ollect the following items from around your home, your office, your friends, neighbors, etc. and bring them to First Baptist and place them in the collection box in room 102 for the benefit of Baptist Children’s Homes: -Inkjet Cartridges -Toner Cartridges (NO toner tubes// tanks) -Cell Phones -iPods/MP3 Players -Headphones -Laptops -Digital Cameras -GPS Devices

Serve through StepUp Ministry

BY SHIRLEY THOMPSON

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tepUp Ministry, formerly Reach Out First, is now a First Baptist ministry team. The purpose of this team is to promote and encourage volunteer involvement in the following two programs that prepare and empower low income, jobless, and homeless individuals in Guilford County who are ready to make a change in their lives by becoming self-sufficient.

The first step offered to participants is the 5-day Job Readiness Program. The curriculum includes a series of workshops including communication skills, interviewing, resume development, and job retention. In addition, each participant receives a one-on-one assessment with a job placement counselor. Upon successfully completing the training, job placement counselors assist all graduates with potential employment and provide follow-up support. Volunteers support this program by providing lunch, leading a devotion, conducting a mock interview, teaching a class, etc.

After a person successfully completes the 5-day Job Readiness Program and is employed at least 30 hours per week, the person is eligible to enter the 52-week Life Skills Program. This one-hour class meets after the Hot Dish and Hope meal on Thursday evenings at First Presbyterian Church. This program is designed for the family including children 16 and younger who attend separate classes. The curriculum covers personal and relational development, goal setting, financial literacy, career development, and credit restoration. Volunteers are needed to mentor a participant in this program, teach Life Skills classes, etc.

If you would like to join this team or volunteer, please contact Shirley Thompson, dcshirle@bellsouth.net / 274-9622. Other team members include: Phil Barbee, Sandra Canipe, Charles Hartis, Jan Hill, Laura Lomax, and Geneva Metzger.

Learn more about this project: www.funding factory.com

Peanut Butter and Jelly Are Needed!

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chools are out for the summer and many children in our community are left without the nutritious breakfast and lunch meals they received through school feeding programs. A sad statistic in our state is that one in four children experience hunger and food insecurity on a regular basis. A quick healthy snack is a PBJ, so let’s fill up the Greensboro Urban Ministry bins in the Atrium and the Children’s Wing with jars of peanut butter and jelly. When you do, you will help fill empty stomachs!

4 | Connections

Connect through Service

5th Wednesday Grace Fellowship Meal

BY JACK STEELMAN

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or nearly 20 years, Grace Community Church has fed the hungry of our community, and presently, they feed up to 250 folks, including children, at their weekly Wednesday “fellowship.” Since 2009, a team from FBC, organized by Jack Steelman, has partnered with Grace in their Wednesday Community Fellowship. Each 5th Wednesday, or 4 times a year, an FBC group prepares, delivers, and assists with serving the Fellowship meal at Grace. The group, comprised of youth and adults, meets on Tuesday to prepare and pack the meal. The following day, the FBC kitchen staff, in addition to the preparation of our weekly fellowship meal, completes the meal for Grace.

The meal is delivered “hot”, and served in conjunction with worship, Bible study, and other activities.

The next 5th Wednesdays will be July 31 and October 30.

Pray for what your involvement might be in this ministry.

For more information, contact Jim and Sandy Frost, frostyone4@earthlink.net or 282-8551.

Left: Families prepared and handed out bags of personal convenience items– their mission even involved the youngest family members.

Right: An FBC group prepares, delivers, and assists with serving the Fellowship meal at Grace. The trayed food illustrates what was prepared by the FBC team.

BackPack Beginnings

BY SUSAN STEELMAN

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e ran an article in the newsletter last August sharing that FBC voted to give $4,000 from the Great Commission Fund to support BackPack Beginnings (BPB), a non-profit organization founded by Parker Wood White, daughter of Bennett and Melinda Wood. Now the rest of the story; in April 2013 BackPack Beginnings evolved and is now no longer under the support umbrella of The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, but is operating as its own 501 C (3) charitable organization.

BackPack Beginnings Volunteers Needed!

Eighteen FBC members delivered weekend meals to 50 underprivileged Rankin Elementary School students during the 2012-2013 school year. Due to the success of the program, in January 2013 we were asked to help deliver meals to Gillespie Park Elementary as well. The number of students served at Gillespie was 35. The total number of children served in our community through this program was 730.

FBC has been asked if we would consider delivering to at least one other school for the 2013-2014 year.

The commitment from volunteers has been 1 hour a week on a rotating basis. The food is bagged and boxed at 3714 Alliance Drive, Suite 105 (off of Wendover West). The volunteer’s responsibility is to pick up the boxes at the site and deliver them to the designated school.

FYI: the work can include lifting at least several 10 lb boxes into your car utilizing a hand cart if needed. The delivery must take place prior to 2 pm each Thursday. The FBC volunteers worked in teams of 2 and delivered once every 8 weeks.

This program needs volunteers like you. An orientation session is scheduled for late August in which new participants will be introduced to the procedures and security issues they will need to be part of in this work.

If this sounds like a ministry that would utilize your gifts and interests, or if you would like more information, please contact Kelly Stephens at sprytwin@aol.com or 288-9183.

July 2013 | 5

Connect with Adults Day Trips at FBC There are so many interesting places all around us that we seem to overlook, so why not take a “Day Trip” with your friends at FBC. Spend one day visiting, touring, and exploring interesting homes, restaurants, museums, businesses, and communities. Some previous trips include:

Above: Sara Sears greets FBC as they arrive at the restored 18th Century home, located alongside the town square at Old Salem.

FBC Visits Sears House On the Square at Old Salem

BY STEVE PRESSLEY

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he Old Salem home of Dr. and Mrs. Tom Sears was the focus of the May 23 Day Trip excursion to our neighboring city of Winston-Salem.

Thirty-eight tour members under the leadership of Monica Vaughan and Dolly Chesson enjoyed a lecture on the theological significance of Old Salem pottery and furniture design, a tour of the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), a tour of the Single Brothers House, lunch at the Salem Tavern, and a guided tour of the late-18th Century Sears home.

Guides for the home tour were Sara and Tom themselves, who have held title to the Salem Square dwelling for about three years. During that time they have restored and furnished the entire three-level house with period fixtures and antiques. Their interest in Old Salem history, culture and restoration dates back to the mid-70’s, when Tom became active in its private governing body, and when family research showed that Sara has several Moravian ancestors.

Tom and Sara, whose primary residence is an Old Salem-style home that they constructed here in Greensboro, have utilized many of the antique furnishings, fixtures, and decorative items previously stored in their attic, in outfitting their Old Salem house. A retired orthodontist, Tom acknowledges that he does not fish or play golf, and that the deployment of his talent for restoration of the historic community has become his retirement hobby Above: Dr. Tom Sears and tour members and passion. Presently he chairs the Old Salem Bonnie Morrah, Kay Mills, and D.C. Thompson Building and Grounds Committee, and spends listen as Sara recalls their acquisition and furnishing of the historic dwelling. four or five days of each week “on the job.”

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– Southern Supreme Fruit Cake Store, Bear Creek – Linbrook Estate/Hall and the John Deere Tractor & Industrial Museum, Trinity – Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, Wytheville, VA – Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Winston-Salem – State Fair, Raleigh – Airborne & Special Operations Museum, Fayetteville – Homeland Creamery, Julian – UNC Planetarium, Chapel Hill – Historic Edenton Home tour, Edenton – Apple Farm Fall Mountain tour, Blowing Rock – Governor’s Mansion tour, Raleigh – Durham Preforming Arts Center (DPAC), Durham – Fearington Village, Pittsboro, and Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill – D-Day Memorial, Bedford, VA The schedule for 2013/2014 will come out in September and possible trips include the Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville and a tour of art venues and Old Greensboro and several others. We hope you will join us if a trip interests you. There is usually a minimal cost associated with trips to cover admission and/or a meal. All ages are invited to participate in the Day Trips being offered.

Necessary transportation is arranged for each trip either by FBC bus, cars, motor coach, and even train. Day Trips are a fun way to spend time with friends and visit some interesting places–and it’s all in a day!

Day Trip organizers: Dolly Chesson (swchesson1@gmail.com / 545.7712 or Monica Vaughan (edwinv550@aol. com / 323.0335).

Connect with Adults FBC Adult Learning Ministry News BY STEVE SUMEREL

Sunday School Moves FRONT and CENTER

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his fall two continuing Sunday School development programs will be kicked off. Almost fifty potential and current Sunday School teachers have already completed the six-month FRONT curriculum. Many of these graduates have asked for the “next level” of Bible, history, and theological study. So, this fall FRONT 201 will offer more advanced study. However, this three month curriculum will be available to anyone willing to take on the challenge.

We are also recruiting for another FRONT class which will be offered if we have at least 10 people sign up. Remember FRONT is more than the classroom component. It is designed for anyone who wishes to explore their calling and place of service. In addition to the classroom material, coaching and mentoring can also be components of this discernment process.

CENTER is a new program designed to train those involved in Sunday School in-reach and out-reach functions. CENTER will also become the support system for these efforts. CENTER will begin with a four week training period, followed by regular support and information sharing group sessions. Every Sunday School class is encouraged to assign someone to this effort. Nearly every plan to increase the level of new member and inactive member participation in congregational life involves efforts by the Sunday School. CENTER will become the on-going equipping tool to keep our Sunday Schools front and center in the future plans and hopes of our congregation.

Anyone interested in obtaining more information on any of these opportunities or who wishes to sign up can do so by contacting Dr. Sumerel ( 274.3286, x233/ steves@fbcgso.org ).

Bible Study: The Journey Begins

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n an effort to offer Bible study to adults who are just beginning their journey of discovery, a Kerygma Bible study plan will be launched this fall. The eight week program will be one of the three Adult Access tracks which will begin in September on Wednesday evenings. It is hoped that those who attend may well continue in their study, possibly even forming a new on-going Bible study class. People who are interested in finding out more about this class should contact Dr. Sumerel (274.3286, x233/ steves@fbcgso.org ).

Connect with Business Bylaws Vote: Sunday, July 14 during a Special Called Church Conference. Be here for this special vote.

Documents regarding the Bylaws revisions are available online: ( http://www.fbcgso.org/article368095.htm ) or in the church office.

May Financial Update

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sing the chart of numbers listed below, we could tell several different positive and negative stories about how the church is doing financially. Using numbers that you don’t see on the chart (e.g. commitments vs. giving, or number of weeks in each year), we could tell even more stories and spin them to our liking either to encourage stronger commitment or to celebrate generosity. Perhaps both encouragement and celebration are in order. For those who may be lagging in their commitments made last fall, this is an opportunity to review your giving thus far in 2013 and, if possible, catch up if you have inadvertently fallen behind.

The Lord has provided, and He will continue to provide through the faithful generosity of his children. We continue to rejoice in His provision through His people at FBC.

May 2013 Receipts & Distributions May Budget Receipts YTD Budget Receipts YTD Budget Disbursements YTD Differential

Budget

Last Year

$124,855 $150,924 $664,282 $735,231 $695,647 $725,480 ($31,365) $9,752

Actual

$107,834 $696,979 $646,956 $50,023

Actions Taken in the June 9 Church Conference

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he following actions were taken by the church in the conference on Sunday afternoon, June 9, 2013. Dr. Stuart Allen, chair of the Finance Committee offered the following two motions which were passed by the body: Motion 1: The Building and Grounds Committee, with the approval of the Finance Committee, requests the expenditure of up to $4,085 to replace and repair the blown amplifiers/ drivers as needed in the carillon bell system in the steeple.

The funds will come from the Major Maintenance Account.

Motion 2: The Building and Grounds Committee, with the approval of the Finance Committee, requests the expenditure of $4,800 to paint both the inside and the outside of the duplex on Guilford Avenue that is owned by the Church. The funds will come from the Major Maintenance Account.

Dr. Laura Lomax, chair of the diaconate made the following the motion which was passed by the body: On behalf of the Deacons, the Finance Committee, and the Personnel Committee, I move that the church create a part-time staff position of Missions Coordinator.

Funding for the year 2013 will come from unspent budget money.

The funding for the year 2014 will come from the J.W. Gawthrop Memorial Fund, which will become unrestricted in 2014.

Finally, Moderator Jack Swanson recognized Mr. William Waters who presented the proposed revisions to the Bylaws in accordance with the requirements of the existing Bylaws. The vote on the proposed Bylaws was then formally set for a called conference to be held during the regular Morning Worship Service on July 14, 2013.

July 2013 | 7

Profile of FBC Divinity Student Lesley-Ann Hix

Accepting a Call to Ministry

BY LESLEY-ANN HIX

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hen we answer God’s call, when we say, “Here I am, send me,” we are voluntarily handing over the reigns of our lives. But even when I started seminary, I was still holding on too tight. Despite accepting my call to ministry, I was certain I knew how God was going to use me and how I would best serve God, so seminary became a time of deep emotional struggle and serious growing pains.

I found myself in front of closed doors I assumed would be immediately opened. My head and my heart weren’t lining up anymore, and I was too hurt to give up on investments and commitments I had excitedly made a year earlier. I was too hurt to recognize the open doors as paths to renewal sent by God. But slowly, through careful listening and probing conversation, God broke through my definitions, pushing me into the places of my life where I gained energy. Through my coursework, God began to speak in ways I had never heard. And as my understanding of God broadened, I found myself standing in solidarity with people I would not have otherwise known.

During my first year in school, McAfee recognized my gifts in journalism and employed me as the designer and co-creator of the school’s online publication. It was something I had never done before, but putting people’s stories together gave me a lot of energy, so I was thrilled to be in a position that combined my passions. In the first magazine, we featured Jen and Trey Lyon, CBF field personnel, telling the story of their ministry among Grant Park’s marginalized population. And during the same month the issue was released, my missiology class began working ethnographically with the Lyon’s ministry. I was assigned to the group that would study their afterschool program, not my first choice, but I was overwhelmingly excited to be placed there. I began getting to know the students, and after a few months, I began learning their stories. Slowly, I learned about the drug addiction and the structural poverty.

I learned about the systemic problems in Atlanta City Schools that were adversely affecting these boys’ success in education.

I learned about the gangs. And I was overwhelmed. I wanted to share their stories with the world. I wanted to share their stories so that their lives might be changed.

I have made a special relationship with Matthew, a 16-year-old. He needed help with his Spanish homework one week, and since I am fluent, he came to me. Matthew is one

Above: Ministry for Lesley-Ann includes fun times as well as having a listening ear for the burdens of a young man’s heart.

of the only African-American students in his high school.

He works especially hard to keep up with everyone else in his classes because he feels the weight of social constraints influencing his educational success. He makes As and Bs in all of his classes, but Spanish is where he struggles the most.

So we looked over his vocabulary for that week and began to make signs with Spanish words to post up on objects throughout our tutoring room at Park Avenue. As we made these signs, we talked about his school and his friends. Every week, for the past year and a half, I have helped Matthew with his Spanish homework. He is now passing the class with a C average, but, more importantly, we have created a sacred space of reflective conversation. I hear about how much he misses his brother who is in jail. I edit English papers. He asks me about my sense of calling and God’s work in my own life. I throw in a few Spanish words. I hear about his friends and the parties and the drugs. I make him practice public speaking.

He asks me about family, success, and purpose. I sit in silent reflection with him.

Matthew embodies the purpose of Jesus’ ministry and the beautifully treacherous depth of God for me. My compassion takes on a new complexity in Matthew’s eyes, and I know that I cannot not do this ministry of solidarity with the marginalized. As Matthew’s flourishing becomes my priority, I am realizing my own story in his. Our salvation is bound up in the divine narrative of those around us. And we must internalize the stories of the oppressed in order to be able to proclaim release to the marginalized. Called into advocacy ministry, I am excited about the intensity in God’s organic movements, embracing the conversations I find myself in and committing to never leave them too soon.

Editor’s Note: Lesley-Ann Hix will be starting her final year of her Master of Divinity degree at McAfee School of Theology this fall. She works as a work-study student in the admissions office at McAfee and co-produces the school’s tri-annual online publication, Tableaux, as its design editor.

With FBC’s help, she is currently serving in Chile through Student.Go. She is ministering with Blake and Bekah Hart, CBF field personnel, in Arica, Chile, for the months of June and July. Check her blog (lahphotography.wordpress.com) for updates, reflections and pictures from Chile.

8 | Connections

Connect with Children Thanks to all who made BIBLE Camp 2013 happen!

Congratulations to FBC’s 2013 Bible Hurdle Champions

BY VIRGINIA REYNOLDS

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ach Bible “hurdle” represents a spiritual learning concept ranging from “Prayer” to “Service to Others” to “Basic Bible Knowledge and Skills.”

These five girls mastered all ten hurdles for the year. They are left to right: Macey Cornett, Hannah Porter, Liza Lewis, Anna Hartis, and Cassady Teague. Congratulations on a year of good work and accomplishment in Sunday School.

Your teachers and church are proud of each of you!

Connect with Youth

YouthJuly Calendar|

Youth parents and kids: Keep this list of events to reference.

Times are subject to change. If in doubt, contact the FBC youth department (church phone: 274.3286, x235/x288) or check the website: www.fbcgso.org/youth

>Monday, July 1, 11 am - 1 pm: Man Monday, Gym > Tuesday, July 2, 7 am: Arise! at Grace UMC > Wednesday, July 3, 11 am - 1 pm: Woman Wednesday, Gym > Thursday, July 4: Church offices are closed > Saturday, July 6, 12 noon: The Lone Ranger, Brassfield Theater > Sunday, July 7, 6 pm: Concert in the Park, Guilford College, FAMILIES and Youth - Bring a picnic > Monday, July 8, 11 am - 1 pm: Man Monday, Gym > Tuesday, July 9, 7 am: Arise! at Grace UMC > Wednesday, July 10, 11 am - 1 pm: Woman Wednesday, Gym > July 14-21: All-State Youth Choir > Monday, July 15, 11 am - 1 pm: Man Monday, Gym > Tuesday, July 16, 7 am: Arise! at Grace UMC > Wednesday, July 17, 11 am - 1 pm: Woman Wednesday, Gym >Friday, July 19, leave FBC at 6:30 pm: Eden Drive-In Movie Night > July 22-27: Unidiversity at University of Tennessee > Monday, July 29, 11 am - 1 pm: Man Monday, Gym > Tuesday, July 30, 7 am: Arise! at Grace UMC >Wednesday, July 31, 11 am - 1 pm: Woman Wednesday, Gym

Man Monday:

All guys report to the Gym dressed in workout wear. Some workout, some Bible Study, and lunch ($5/lunch).

Arise @ Grace UMC:

Join us at 7 am and feed the homeless!

Drop-off at 7 am at Grace UMC – Pick-up at Grace UMC at 9:30 am (438 West Friendly Avenue).

Woman Wednesday: All girls report to the Gym dressed in workout wear.

Some workout, some Bible Study, and lunch ($5/lunch).

Pray for FBC adults and youth attending Unidiversity July 22-27: Brittany Bland, Joshua Childs, Steve Cothran, Jenny Hill, Roxana Johnson, Matthew Kennedy, Virginia Little, Hannah Lynch, Luke Lynch, Taylor McDaniel, Trent Philpott, Ethan Schneider, Landon Schneider, Caleb Wilson, Jaret Wood, Bowen Young, and Clay Young

Pray for All-State Youth Choir participants: Brittany Bland, Leah Frost, Courtney Key, Elias Rainey, Bryce Starnes, Anna Stephens, and Erin Stephens July 2013 | 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 June 9

Guest Reception?? You hear about it every Sunday...

Since last December, we have been offering an opportunity for guests in our Sunday morning worship to meet with Mike and other staff in room 209 (parlor) immediately following worship. This is a wonderful time for anyone new to FBC or interested in our church to informally chat with staff. Light refreshments of lemonade and cookies are provided. When you are in worship, notice those around you and warmly welcome them to FBC. Encourage them to go to the Guest Reception after worship – you may even escort them and introduce them to others along the way.

Pastor’s Gathering?? Sounds fun . . . Next gathering is Sunday, July 21 at 9:15 in room 209 (parlor) This is something new this past year too. Each month Mike hosts a “Pastor’s Gathering” for persons interested in FBC whether visiting for the first time or a long-time participant. These gatherings are a time for fellowship, questions, conversation, and the sharing of information about FBC. If you are interested or know someone who might be interested in one of these informal sessions with Mike, contact Monica Hix in the Pastor’s Office - monica@fbcgso.org or 274-3286, x231.

Amy Overman and Beau Stephens

Welcome New Baby Boy!

(By Statement)

Samuel Douglas Goocey Born: June 19

(Indigo and Declan)

Proud Parents: Rozanna and Joshua Goocey Proud FBC Grandparents: Doug and Terri Vancil

Bereaved •Joyce Beech in the loss of her father, Charles Wagner, on May 26 •Jane Messick in the loss of her brother, Rick Hester, on May 30 •The family of Martin Wimbs, on May 30 •The family of Mary Hayes, on May 31 •The family of Dr. Jack Noffsinger, on June 4 •Chris Culbreth in the loss of his grandfather, Tom Culbreth, on June 12 •The family of Kate Sechler, on June 17 •Joye Brannon in the loss of her brother, James Smith, on June 21

College Birthdays Bryce Russell 7/8

6315 Lakebend Court, Greensboro, NC 27410-8253, wbrussel@uncg.edu

Andrew Kennedy 7/12

3600 Gramercy Road, Greensboro, NC 27410-9148, andrew.kennedy@pop. belmont.edu

Jesse Rainey, III 7/18

2209 Lannigan Drive, Greensboro, NC 27406, elias12@hotmail.com

Allen Putnam 7/19

1317 Westridge Road, Greensboro, NC 27410, putnama@email.sc.edu

Cam Simmons 7/21

1509 Burlwood Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410, cam.simmons@yahoo.com 10 | Connections

FBC July Birthdays 1: 2: 3: 4: 5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16: 17: 18: 19: 20: 21: 22: 23: 24: 25: 26: 27: 28: 29: 30: 31:

Cheryl Angel, Gary Beech, Michael Mathews No FBC Birthdays Chris Bland Cynthia Hartis, Molly Lyle, Virginia Vernon, Cathy Wells Louise Garcia, Carol Matthews, Mike Moore, Clyde Rudd, Randy Willard Matt Hall, Gilbert Pierce, Carolyn Ripley, Kevin Tutterow Dara McKinney, Guyon Phillips Eunice Beavers, Ben Hardy, Patricia Hilton, Bryce Russell, Jean Stanfield Laura Cashwell, Jason Hill, Jerry Phillips, Steven Severance, Robert Stone April Eller, Ken Ripley Margaret Barnes, Larry Canter, Ronald McCraw Kay Hensley, Andrew Kennedy, Lilly Persinger, James Watkins Mark Blakely, Bob Ellis, Christine Garber, Cameron Gooding, Betty Jo Hardin, Beth Shaffer, Cassady Teague Charles Beavers, Susan Bennett, Bobbie Brown, Ruth Gibbs, Patricia Phillips Pattie Barlow, Jane Crandall, Jean Hill, Benny Pember, Lisa Russell Bill Herring, Mason Lewis, LeAndrea Rainey, Margaret Swanson, Cynthia Townes Corie McRae, Jesse Rainey, Anna Rider, Stephen Sumerel Jesse Rainey III, Gary Upchurch, Diane Watkins Tom Boyce, Chad Carpenter, Clyde Mitchell, Allen Putnam Wofford Boyd Joanne Caldwell, Michelle Earles, Mark Frazier, Cam Simmons, Valerie Sutton Nancy Fogleman, Sherry Greeson, Virginia Wells, Holly Woodroof Frances Lake, Joanne Osteen David Angel, Jim Fogleman Jr. Gene Cox, Joe Garcia, Laura Page Blair Tucker Davis Bennett David Ferris, Frances Fogleman, Gene Hester, Jack Sykes Aidan Eller, Virginia Little, Catherine Snavely Davis Baugh David Moore II, Alex Porter, Kaitlyn Rainey

July@FBC

It’s a popsicle kind of summer...enjoy every minute before it melts away... :) Thursday, July 4 Church offices closed.

Sunday, July 14

Sundays@FBC

Prayer for Our Future - 9 am – Bible Study - 9:15 am

Called Church Conference. Sanctuary, during Worship. Worship - 10:30 am – Guest Reception - 11:45 am (209) •Special Bylaws vote.

Conference and Cuisine. 108, 12 noon. No reservations •Church WednesdayNights@FBC required. $6/person–$20/family max.

•Fellowship Meal – 5 pm •Summer Bible Study – 6 pm Sunday, July 21 (No Wednesday night meals/activities in August.)

Baptist All-State Youth Choir Closing Concert.

•NC Hayes Barton Baptist Church, Raleigh, 6 pm.

July 21-23

July Fellowship Meal Menus:

•Happiness Retreat. Caraway Conference Center. Leave FBC at 1 pm.

July 22-27 University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN. •Unidiversity.

Leave FBC at 8:30 am on July 22.

•July Youth Activity Calendar, page 9 / www.fbcgso.org/youth

•July 3: Hamburgers & Hotdogs, Potato Salad, Baked Beans & Apple Pie •July 10: From the Garden: All fresh vegetables •July 17: Salad Palooza: Varieties of salads •July 24: Fried Chicken, Buttered Broccoli Crowns & Au Gratin Potatoes •July 31: Chef’s Surprise

Coming in August A Summer Evening Concert by the Sorrells Family Sunday, August 11, 5 pm, FBC Sanctuary Clark, Karen, Hannah, and Jacob Sorrells of Asheville will sing and play classical, folk, and contemporary sacred music in the Sanctuary.

The concert will be followed by a homemade ice cream fellowship.

Please contact the Music Department (274.3286, x239 or janeanne@ fbcgso.org ) if you would be willing to share a gallon of your favorite flavor of ice cream!

Key:

Sunday, August 25

••Promotion Sunday.

9:15 am. Children and Youth will go to their new Sunday School classes.

•Baptism & BBQ at

the Lake. 4-7 pm, Camp

Weaver. An afternoon of fun, fellowship, food, and an old-fashioned lake baptism.

•Adults •All Ages •Children •Seniors •Weekday School •Worship •Youth July 2013 | 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

Check Out the New Books in the FBC Library!

BY TERESA ALLEN

A Series of Unfortunate Events

(13 volume set) by Lemony Snicket– After the sudden death of their parents, the Baudelaire children must depend on each other. They solve mysteries and attempt to find out secrets while trying to stay out of the clutches of Count Olaf, who is after their family fortune.

Mrs. Kennedy and Me

by Clint Hill with Lisa McCubbin– From the election of JFK in November 1960 until after the election of LBJ in 1964, Clint Hill was the Secret Service agent assigned to guard Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. During those four years, he went from being a reluctant guardian to a fiercely loyal watchdog and in many ways, her closest friend.

Summer

Reading

ALSO:

-The Sixth Man by David Baldacci -The Red Queen by Philippa Gregory -Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory -The Next Always by Nora Roberts -The General’s Mistress by Jo Graham -Sleepwalk by Karen Robards