First Baptist Owensboro
June 2017
GOD AT WORK
SUMMER READING
FATHER'S DAY TRIBUTE
Learn how one FBC couple's invitation
Looking for a good book this summer?
Our K–5th graders made some special
to church made an eternal impact.
Our ministers have got you covered!
art to show their love for their fathers.
TABLE OF CONTENTS A Word from Paul ............................................................................................... 1 FBC's Recreation Ministry: A Fresh New Start ............................................... 2 On May 15th, Dave Roberts began work as our Interim Recreation Director. Learn about his hopes and intentions for the ministry and about some upcoming events in which you can participate.
Happening in June............................................................................................... 3 God at Work: A Simple Invitation by Andrew Hollis & the Papaloucas ...4–6
Pg. 2
On March 19, 2017, Andrew Hollis followed his profession of faith with Believer's Baptism. A simple invitation from Andonis & Celia Papaclouca made an enternal impact on his life.
First On Mission: Oneida Baptist Institute ...................................................... 7 We've heard about Oneida Baptist Institute, a Christian boarding and day school located in Oneida, KY, but we may not know its history. Learn a little of OBI's background and how First Baptist Owensboro supports their mission.
You've Gotta Read This One! .........................................................................8–9 Looking for a good book to read this summer? Our ministerial staff has some suggestions for you. There is something for everyone, so check it out!
Pg. 4–6
Know Your Deacons featuring Larry Kanipe & Mike Little .................. 10–11 To Whom We Belong by Derry Billingsley .....................................................10
On June 11, we will observe the Lord’s Supper. In this article, Derry relates remembering life's important moments with how Christ wants us to remember Him through the Lord's Supper.
Connect Follow-Up Committee Update by Virgil Barker ............................11 On our Connect: For Future Generations journey, Virgil reminds us to be thaankful and give God praise for all that He has done through First Baptist Owensboro.
Pg. 8–9
What I Love About My Dad ...................................................................... 12–15 We asked our Kindergarten through 5th grade children to draw what they loved about their father. In this month's Connect, they share their heartwarming (and funny!) pieces of artwork. Happy Father's Day to all our First Baptist fathers!
Calendar of Events ............................................................................................16 May: A Month in Review .................................................................................17
Pg. 12–15
MEET OUR STAFF PASTOR
Paul Strahan PStrahan@fbcowb.org
WORSHIP
Derry Billingsley DBillingsley@fbcowb.org
DISCIPLESHIP
Wesley Dunn WDunn@fbcowb.org
ADMINISTRATION & SENIOR ADULTS
Bob Farmer BFarmer@fbcowb.org
CHILDREN
Suzie Horner SHorner@fbcowb.org
INTERIM RECREATION Dave Roberts DRoberts@fbcowb.org
STUDENTS & MISSIONS
FINANCIAL SUPERVISOR
PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS
Will Smith WSmith@fbcowb.org
Alisha Williams AWilliams@fbcowb.org
OFFICE MANAGER Judi West JWest@fbcowb.org
Barbara Wright BWright@fbcowb.org
Maeghan Adams MAdams@fbcowb.org Michele Burton MBurton@fbcowb.org Susan Dant SDant@fbcowb.org
230 JR Miller Blvd • Owensboro, KY 42303 • 270.683.3505 • fbcowb.org
by Paul Strahan, Pastor
O
ne of our focuses for this
Timothy. In the final section of that let-
issue of Connect is “Summer
ter, Paul is hoping that Timothy will be
Reading”. Reading books can
able to come see him. In chapter four
and does provide tremendous value to
verse 13 he says, "When you come bring
our lives. I have come to realize how
the cloak which I left at Troas with
important reading is to my life and
Carpus, and the books, especially the
ministry. The most important book
parchments.” Isn’t it amazing of all the
for any of us is God’s Word, the Bible.
things the Apostle could have asked for,
I pray that you make an effort each
he said especially the parchments. He
day to read some portion of the Bible.
wanted to continue studying/learning
We are familiar with the Apostle Paul’s
and reading in his final days.
encouraging words to Timothy. In 2 Timothy 3:16–17, Paul said, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped
The Principle of the Path by Andy Stanley
Andy is very good at communicating and in his book teaches you how to get
As we enter the summer, it would do
to where you want to be from where
all of us good to plan to read a book
you are. He uses personal illustrations,
or two. I want to share with you two
which are easily followed and always
recommendations that have impacted
seems to make very good sense. I seem
my life and ministry.
to come away from his writings thinking to myself, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
for every good work.” Paul was in a
If you have trouble seeing the path to
Roman prison when he wrote to young
your end results, this will help you.
The 4 Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, & Jim Huling I had the privilege of hearing Chris give
helps you think through the disciplines,
a talk on the title of this book. He is
which lead to execution. We have begun
very engaging and knowledgeable in the
implementing this into our goals as a
subject matter. If you are like me and
staff. This book is good for businesses,
sometimes have trouble seeing things
families, corporations, and individuals.
to fruition, this book is invaluable. He
Everyone can benefit.
FBC'S RECREATION MINISTRY: A FRESH NEW START Hello FBC Family,
and love neighbor as ourselves"
As you may have heard, I have been
The ongoing construction of Phase II
hired as the Interim Recreation Direc-
and the breakdown of the CLC cool-
tor beginning May 15th, the day I write
ing unit has caused complications,
these comments. I'm excited about the
but remedies are forthcoming. I have
possibilities of ministry through our
several ideas of additional activities and
Christian Life Center (CLC). In the
fellowships such as Pickleball, Two by
days to come, I plan to meet with staff
Twosday, Wednesday Warriors, Fourth
and administrators to get more familiar
Friday Foursomes, various fellowships,
with how we can incorporate recreation
and incorporating community events
and activities into building the church
into our programming. You'll hear
fellowship and extending our out-
more about these in the weeks to come.
reach. I would like to hear from church
Most programs will be applicable for
members (an upcoming survey may
multigenerational and/or family partic-
appear) as to how best to accomplish
ipation. I pray that you'll join in the fun!
our vision—"To use the outlet of recreation in order to pursue the two greatest commandments—love God with our all
Again, I look forward to hearing your
Dave Roberts Interim Recreation about the use of recreation in sharing God's love and serving together. In His Glory, Dave Roberts
thoughts and concerns. I'm excited
COMING SOON IN RECREATION Find more information on these events and more on page 11's Happening in June feature.
Thursday, June 8: Our senior adults are taking a trip
Friday, June 23: Let's play golf! On the fourth Friday of
to watch the Reds play the St. Louis Cardinals. A limited
each month, the CLC hosts a monthly golf outing at Ben
amount of tickets are available. To reserve your spot, contact
Hawes Golf Course. Players are responsible for greens and
Susan at SDant@fbcowb.org or 270-683-3505.
cart fees. Call Dave Roberts at 270-683-3505 to participate.
2 | Connect Magazine
HAPPENING IN JUNE WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE
Wednesdays in June
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL June 12–16 at 8:30 AM
Hawes Golf Course on the fourth Fri-
day. Games are 9 or 18 holes and begin at 2:30 PM. Players are responsible for their own greens and cart fees. Contact
Each Wednesday in June, prayer lunch
All Galactic Starveyors are encouraged
Dave Roberts at 270-683-3505 if you
will meet, but there will be no family
to join us for VBS as we search for the
would like to participate.
supper or evening activities. Prayer
Visible and Discover the Invisible. Chil-
lunch will not meet the week of VBS.
dren having completed grades K–5th
CAMP K12
SENIOR ADULT BASEBALL TRIP
and their friends are welcome June
Thursday, June 8
Have a free Thursday? Our senior adults are taking a trip to the Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio to watch the Reds play the St. Louis Cardinals.
12-16 at 8:30-11:30 in the Christian Life Center. Volunteers and children can register online at fbcowb.org.
CROSSINGS SUMMER CAMPS
June 16–18 & June 17–23
Friday, June 30
Kindergarten–second graders love to go to camp but may not be quite ready for an overnighter. Camp K12 is their chance to get away for a day and have some fun! Children will receive an email with the details as to where we will go this year and how to register.
Tickets are available on a first come/first
Our middle and high school students
Friends are welcome to join us! Past
serve basis. The trip will cost $28, which
will attend summer camp—themed
destinations have been the Children’s
includes ticket and transportation. The
"Outsiders"—at Jonathan Creek on June
Museum of Evansville, Chaney’s Farm,
bus will depart from First Baptist at 7
16–18 (MS) and 17–23 (HS). Contact
and Kentucky Down Under. This year’s
AM and return time will depend on
Will as soon as possible to register.
camp will be just as fun. Contact Suzie
the duration of the game. To reserve
NO EVENING WORSHIP
with any questions.
your spot on this trip, contact Susan at SDant@fbcowb.org or 270-683-3505.
CELEBRATION OF THE LORD'S SUPPER
Sunday, June 18
There will be no evening worship on
Sunday, June 11 at 8:30 & 11 AM Father's Day, Sunday, June 18.
We will remember and proclaim Jesus Christ's sacrifice during worship on Sunday, June 11 in both morning worship services! Take the opportunity to prepare your heart and mind in the days prior to this special time.
4TH FRIDAY FOURSOMES
Friday, June 23 at 2:30 PM
QUARTERLY BUSINESS MEETING Sunday, June 25 at 6 PM
This meeting will be held in the Fellowship Hall, and all First Baptist Owensboro members are encouraged to attend.
Let's play golf! Each month the CLC hosts a monthly golf outing at Ben June 2017 | 3
Andrew Hollis being
just had to be kind to others and hope
baptized by Pastor
that it was good enough. I kept to my-
Paul Strahan in the
self and lived a sort of solitary life after
CLC on May 19, 2017.
moving out here by myself. I first met Andy and Celia as I was walking my dog through the neighborhood. I moved to Owensboro back in 2014, and they lived along the path I would walk Gracie. Andy and I both worked very early mornings, and it seemed like we would run into each
GOD AT WORK
A SIMPLE INVITATION
other just about every morning and
On March 19, 2017, Andrew Hollis followed his profession of faith with Be-
conversations. This went on for a while
liever's Baptism. As a transplant from Florida with a sour taste for the church,
before he started inviting me to FBC
a simple invitation from Andonis & Celia Papaclouca made an enternal impact
and even with those first few invites I
on Andrew's life.
sort of excused myself out of it because
Andrew Hollis I grew up in Florida as part of a large family split between two homes. I didn't grow up in the kindest area, and it was practically a culture shock for me to move to Owensboro, where it seems that neighbors not only know each other's names, but actually talk to each other. I think that's why I was so hesitant to Andy and Celia's openness; it just wasn't something I was familiar with. We didn't talk to each other where I'm from, except to tell them to keep the noise down. As far as my spiritual life went, it was just sort of there. My family would 4 | Connect Magazine
attempt to go to a service and it would
then again in the evenings. We didn't say much at first, just the usual acknowledging nod toward each other. We eventually progressed to actually saying pleasantries and from there
of sour past experiences in the church.
only last a week or two. I never had
I think they must have caught on to that
a church upbringing, and as an adult
because Andy went from inviting me to
I just didn't have any luck finding a
church to inviting me over just to sort
church that I felt like I fit in. There
of relax and hang out. I took them up
were a few churches I went to that
on the offer one night as they were host-
didn't even have a sermon! I walked
ing dinner and s’mores for what turned
in, the choir sang, they passed around
out to be a group from our Young Adult
the plate, and people started leaving. I
Sunday School group. I enjoyed myself
wanted the studies. I wanted the ser-
that night and after hearing some of the
mons. I wanted the community involve-
topics discussed it had me interested in
ment. I remember leaving churches
the church, because it wasn't what I was
feeling disappointed as if it were all just
familiar with from my past experiences
fake, but I always had that feeling in my
at church back home in Florida.
heart. That belief. After a few attempts, I just fell back and deemed it good enough to just be kind to people. I got stuck in that moralistic concept that I
I believe it was that same weekend that I took them up on the offer to join them at FBC. I liked what I saw. It was a
welcoming atmosphere, so I continued
come a full member and follow through
the church, so I was definitely initially
to join them both for Sunday School as
with Believer's Baptism.
hesitant at tagging along to a church.
well as service. Sometimes we would go back home for lunch. What started as a sort of church fellowship turned into one of my closest friendships. We would get together to go over the week's Sunday School lesson while having dinner and our movie nights. We would help each other out with work projects around the house and dog sitting. They got me interested in helping out at the church with AWANA, and I really enjoyed helping with that until my work schedule became hectic and I had to drop out. I continued coming to Sunday School and FBC services for the next two years before deciding to make Jesus a priority in my life. I then came forward to be-
Andonis Papalouca I remember Andrew would always walk his dog, Gracie, through the neighborhood. I would be outside, washing the car or doing some yardwork. As he would walk by, I would wave or give him a head nod. In Sunday school, Wesley was teaching us how to minister to others who may not have God in their lives. I was always a little hesitant on bringing up the subject of God, because I never knew how people were going to react. Andrew popped up in my mind as someone I could invite to church. One day, I decided to ask him his name and some brief background information. After time played its course and
If I could encourage others in our congregation regarding inviting others, I would say absolutely do it! We are called to reach out to our neighbors—to go forth and make disciples. Think of all the small interactions you have with people on a daily basis and take the opportunity. It may take a couple tries to break down walls and find a connection, but you never know who needs that little push to not only become a
But as our conversations got longer, it was easy to see that Andonis is easily one of the kindest people I have ever met. The same can be said of Celia, especially when we all first met. I don't think I really had the appearance of an approachable guy (with my dirty work clothes, bandana, and giant dog), but she was just so welcoming and sweet. It seemed like I quickly became a small part of their family.
great friend, but to also find their rela-
It really opens my eyes to how easy it
tionship with Jesus.
can really be to reach out to somebody.
I'm an introverted person, and it takes me a while to warm up to people. Those few sour visits I had from my past churches had kind of put me off
There are people you have the opportunity to come across every day. It takes no effort to just be a friendly face in the neighborhood or workplace.
we got to know each other better, I
We wanted to gradually introduce
took that leap asked him if he attended
him to people so that he wouldn’t be
church anywhere in town. He told me
so overwhelmed when he came to
that he wasn’t currently going any-
church. From then on, our friendship
where, so I told him that we would love
has grown tremendously. Ever since
to have him come worship with us at
that first initial invite, Andrew has been
First Baptist. I also told him that we
very consistent with coming to church
had a great Sunday School group that
and very involved in our Sunday School
he could come to before worship. He
class. We started having Andrew over
let me know that he was sometimes
for dinner, and he would come over
nervous about being around big crowds
regularly and visit. Celia and I have
of people. I told him that I totally un-
moved since then, but we still keep in
derstood where he was coming from,
frequent contact with Andrew.
as I sometimes felt nervous around big crowds of people. Celia and I had planned to have a s’mores night at our home around our fire pit. We invited Andrew and several other members of our Adult 1 Sunday School group.
I was led to invite Andrew because as we got to know him and his spiritual life, I could tell that he wanted to know more about God and grow in his faith. Continued on Page 6...
In the beginning of our friendship, conversation was brief, but it grew over time. I wanted to talk to him about God, but at the same time not overwhelm him with the subject. As time went on, Celia and I would have him over for dinner and let our dogs, Gracie and Huck, play together. Anytime I was outside, he would walk up to see what I was doing, and we would just talk and hang out. If I ever needed someone to talk to, I felt comfortable talking to him.
Celia Papalouca Andonis had been talking to a guy who walked his dog past our house. He lived just down the street from us. Andonis invited him to church, and we invited him to have dinner with us occasionally as well. Their acquaintance soon led to a friendship between the three of us. We would pick Andrew up on our way to church and typically have him over for dinner afterward. We had time to discuss Sunday school lessons, sermons,
The majority of the time, I don’t feel I make a significant impact on others’ lives. Sometimes I just don’t realize what a simple gesture can do because I never see the end result. We weren’t able to be present at Andrew’s baptism, but watching the video of his testimony brought me to tears. We have seen God at work in him, and we continue to see the changes it has made in Andrew’s life. Knowing that God used us to witness to Andrew is truly humbling.
The only personal barrier I had to
and everyday life struggles. We were
Seeing the impact that Andonis’ friend-
get over was the fear of him rejecting
blessed to see small changes in Andrew’s
ship and simple invitation to church has
me when I brought up the subject of
life but never fully realized the impact
made in Andrew’s life has really en-
church. I tend to keep to myself, and it
we were making. When we watched An-
couraged me to invite others to church.
takes me a while to open up to people.
drew’s testimony before his baptism, we
I haven’t had anyone take me up on the
I eventually said to myself, “Well, the
saw the reality of what God had done
offer yet, but I am still inviting others as
worst thing that can happen is him say-
through our friendship with him.
God leads me.
Being Andonis’s wife, I was there to en-
To those who are reading this, don’t be
Seeing what has happened with Andrew
courage him. Although, Andonis didn’t
discouraged. Keep inviting others to
has impacted me greatly. Knowing that
need much encouraging. I was excited
come. In your lifetime, you may invite
he has grown in his faith entices me to
to hear that he had invited Andrew
hundreds of people to church. Even if
grow in my own faith as well. Andrew
to church. However, I never knew if
just one responds to your invitation,
and I are in the same boat, as we both
Andrew would end up coming with us
you are making a difference that lasts
did not come from a background of
or not. Not many people actually take
for eternity.
spiritual upbringing. Also, it does make
you up on the offer. Because of so few
me very happy to know that I brought
people that typically accept the invita-
someone closer to God. I was very
tion, inviting people to church can be
proud of Andrew and his decision to
discouraging.
ing ‘no’ or not being interested.”
become a member of First Baptist and carry out Believer’s Baptism.
Celia, Andonis, and Andrew pictured after Sunday School 6 | Connect Magazine
on May 22, 2017.
FIRST ON MISSION
ONEIDA BAPTIST INSTITUTE
O
neida Baptist Institute was
Burns succeeded. His founding Board
in New York, "Professor" Burns was able
founded in 1899. The turn
of Trustees were native mountaineers of
to buy land in 1910 for a school-run
of the century was a dark
warring clans. These men worked with
farm.
time in the eastern Kentucky mountains. There was mass illiteracy and
Burns to construct a one-room building.
Oneida Baptist Institute continues to
The school opened with 100 students
honor her Godly heritage by offering
and four teachers on January 1, 1900.
affordable, quality, Christian education
Tuition was $1.00 per month which
to young people from all walks of life
OBI's founder, James Anderson Burns,
many families could not afford to pay.
and maintaining an atmosphere where
sought to end the feuds by uniting fam-
At times, Burns accepted sheepskin,
teenagers can grow physically, mentally,
ilies of warring clans in a common goal:
coal and even a bull as tuition. He
socially, and spiritually.
Christian education for their children.
turned no one away. Students also
few schools. Men and boys were being killed in bloody feuds.
"The idea was to give the children religious education...till they learned
worked on campus to help pay their way.
By giving to First On Mission (FOM), you are giving in part to the Oneida Baptist Institute. Each year, First Baptist
to love one another and forgot how to
By 1905, Oneida Baptist Institute had
donates 4% of our total FOM offering to
hate." —James Anderson Burns, Found-
dormitories for boys and girls. Thanks
Oneida. To learn more about First On
er of Oneida Baptist Institute
to a generous gift from a private donor
Mission, visit fbcowb.org/FOM.
June 2017 | 7
YOU'VE GOTTA READ THIS ONE!
We asked our ministerial staff to give us a couple recommendations of what our congregation could be reading this summer. They pulled through with some great suggestions! We received books for all ages, walks of life, and interests. Discover your next summer read in the recommendations below! Alisha Williams, Preschool
with communication with your strong-
the illustrations for the 101 different
Teaching with Love and Logic
willed child. Both of these books will be
Biblical thoughts and stories are bright
by David Funk & Jim Fay
on display in the preschool.
and colorful. Don’t let the Juvenile
Teaching with Love and Logic is about
Suzie Horner, Children
Nonfiction classification discourage you
building a relationship with children
Praying Circles Around the Lives of
based on trust. This book suggests ways
Your Children by Mark Batterson
to change your words to get the child’s attention. It deals with topics in behavioral problems, letting children make choices and understand limitations, and includes talking points on removing your emotions from the situation. I recommend this book to those desiring more fun teaching their children while gaining more cooperation.
Praying Circles Around the Lives of Your Children introduces innovative ways for parents to include and encourage other family members to become an active part of a child’s spiritual growth in life through prayer and activities from the time they are born to adulthood. It is a quick and easy read, and you will want to have a highlighter
Parenting with love and Logic
ready for those “I wish that I had
by David Funk & Jim Fay
thought of that” moments. This book is
Parenting with Love and Logic is about how to help with picky eaters, potty
a great read for parents and grandparents alike.
training, special needs, and much more.
Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing
It helps parents teach children to make
by Sally Lloyd-Jones and Jago
good choices and experience happy lives while maintaining their love and respect. I recommend this book to help 8 | Connect Magazine
Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing is a book that will do just that. It is perfect for individual and family devotions and
as an adult from reading this book. It is theologically rich and reveals Biblical truths in such a unique way. I dog-eared half the book while reading and it did make my heart sing!
Will Smith, Students & Missions Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris This is my favorite entry level biblical theology book. It is perfect for new and “seasoned” believers. Super easy to read and understand. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to have a better understanding of what they believe and why they believe it. Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God’s Will by Kevin DeYoung I love this book. If I could give it to everyone I would. If you have ever won-
dered about what God’s will for your life
areas of conflict in my own life. This
is, then I would recommend this book.
book really helped me understand the
The subtitle is correct…liberating!
biblical pathway to seeking and grant-
Wesley Dunn, Discipleship
ing forgiveness.
Gospel Treason: Betraying The Gospel
Derry Billingsley, Worship
With Hidden Idols by Brad Bigney
Worship Matters by Bob Kauflin
If you are anything like me, you do not
There are countless books on worship
lack for information about what the Bi-
and even fewer good books on worship.
ble says. Instead, the struggle is actually
Worship Matters is an excellent book
living out the commands of the Bible in
on worship. While geared toward those
full obedience to Christ. Basically…“If
who lead, this is a book every Christian
I am a believer, why do I have such a
will benefit in reading. I’m challenged
hard time changing, quitting this and
in Kauflin’s stressing the need for both
instead doing that?” Bigney gets to the
head and heart in worship: “…mind and
heart of it…false worship known as
heart belong together. Strong passionate
idolatry. This book helped me identi-
desires for God flow from and encourage
fy some of the idols of my own heart
the faithful, thoughtful study of God—
(desires of the flesh) and gave a pathway
His nature, character, and works.”
for repentance and obedience. Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds by Chris Brauns
One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp Through One Thousand Gifts, I discovered keeping a list can change your life. God brought this book into my life in a
Forgiveness is something that some
time I didn’t realize I needed to read it,
people run from and refuse to offer. On
and He has used it to change my daily
the other hand, some people flippant-
perspective and attitude. If you find it
ly hand over forgiveness as though
difficult to be thankful, read this book.
nothing has happened and there is no residual effect. Neither is a biblical response to conflict in life. Neither worked for true reconciliation in the
This month we introduce Larry Kanipe and Mike Little. These men of God are tasked with the mission of caring for our church's needs. Keep them in your daily prayers as they seek to serve our congregation and pursue unity in the church. When did you become an FBC member? 9 years ago in 2008 What passage of Scripture has recently impacted you and in what way? "I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth. And, after my skin has been de-
LARRY KANIPE
stroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God."
Christ face to face. We walk by faith
Job 19:25-26
that Jesus lives and trust in His promise
In the past few months, these verses
of being with Him in our eternal home.
have spoken to me as we see death most
What are specific ways that you pray
every day, either on the news or in our
for the congregation of FBC?
neighborhood, friends, and family.
I pray that our church and myself will
These verses point to a most important
seek opportunities to witness and be
promise from God. Believers will see
Christ-like in leading the lost to Him.
TO WHOM WE BELONG
By Derry Billingsley, Worship
Memories are powerful. They remind us
in a car accident with Papa and my
instruction: “Do this in remembrance
of who we are and to whom we belong.
cousins. I recall the scared feeling of
of me.” Jesus wants us to remember
seeing Papa unconscious, and how
Him. We are to remember not only His
stressed my cousins and I were. He re-
body broken for us, but also the mira-
covered from the incident, but it was a
cles performed, His instruction on daily
hard time on the entire family. As I look
living, and the love He showered on all
back, I am thankful that things didn’t
he met. As we drink of the cup, which is
turn out worse than they did.
the new covenant in His blood, we are
I have fond memories of reunions with my family. We’d have a huge meal, including Papa’s camp stew and Mema’s butternut cake. At some point after the meal, we would gather around the piano. Mema, my aunts, and cousins would take turns playing as everyone
These and many other experiences
sang from hymnals (the ones with
with my family have shaped me into
shape notes). When I was younger, I
the person I am. My memories remind
didn’t want to stop playing games to
me of who I am and to whom I belong.
sing. Now, I see the importance of the
Remembering Christ does the same.
tradition. Singing with my family is part of the fabric of who I am. I have an unpleasant memory of being 10 | Connect Magazine
As our Savior and His disciples were observing the Lord’s Supper on the night before His death, He gave an
to recall His birth, example, death, and resurrection. Also, we are to be mindful of how Christ has revealed himself to us in our lives. On Sunday, June 11, we will observe the Lord’s Supper during both morning worship services. Come prepared to recall His sacrifice, and remember His life and love shown to us on Calvary.
comfortable working with the music
I think we have a loving congregation
department here and what is kind
here at FBC. When we DID move our
of...“cool”…..Denny Waldroup was
membership here, I was concerned
Stephen and Elizabeth’s Sunday School
about the size and the stigma that goes
teacher when we came. NOW…..he’s
with “downtown FIRST Baptist Church”.
mine.
None of my family EVER felt as though
What passage of Scripture has recent-
MIKE LITTLE When did you become an FBC member? Vickie and I…along with our son Stephen and our daughter Elizabeth…. joined FBC in the fall of 2000. Elizabeth was invited to be a member of the group “Access Assured”. Vickie fit
ly impacted you and in what way? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”……Phi. 4:13. I’ve looked forward to retirement, but occasionally the things I’ve worked at are out of my comfort zone. God has inspired me to just do my best and believe in his presence near me, daily.
we were in a foreign, cold environment. Our first Sunday School class, the choir, the ministers, the members…all made us feel welcome from that first Sunday we attended. My prayer is that EVERYONE who comes to visit our church will feel the same way we did. There is something here for everyone. I pray that FBC continues to reach out to the world through the mission fields we have become a part of. God’s name be praised.
right in as a Sunday School teacher
What are specific ways that you pray
for the elementary ages, I’ve felt very
for the congregation of FBC?
by Virgil Barker, Follow-Up Team
to a bird, what fruit is to the tree, what
calendar and we have already reached
the rose is to the thorn, that is praise to a
75% of our goal. I encourage you to
child of God.” (Spurgeon Gems)
daily give thanks to God for this display
O Lord our Lord, Your name is the most wonderful name in all the earth! It brings You praise in heaven above.
How often do we really take time from
—Psalm 8:1 (NCV)
our busy schedule, get alone with God,
Have you ever heard the phrase "the pleasure of praise"? Do we consider praising God a pleasure or do we view praise as an obligation? Is praise something we feel we must do to obtain God’s favor? Charles Spurgeon says, “Praise is the beauty of a Christian. What wings are
and pour out our sacrifice of praise?
of faithfulness. Faithfulness illustrated by each of us who strive to be good stewards of God’s many blessings.
We, the Follow-Up Team Members,
God has blessed us as a church by bring-
have many reasons to offer praise as
ing together a group of believers willing
we look at the faithfulness of the body
to share not only our financial resources,
of believers referred to as First Baptist
but also our talents, as we capitalize on
Owensboro. Connect: For Future Gen-
the opportunities to minister right here
erations is at the halfway point on the
in Owensboro and around the world. June 2017 | 11
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY DAD... We asked our Kindergarten through 5th grade children what they loved about their father. Here are some of their heartwarming (and funny!) pieces of artwork. Happy Father's Day to all our First Baptist fathers!
12 | Connect Magazine
June 2017 | 13
MORE LOVE FOR OUR DADS
14 | Connect Magazine
June 2017 | 15
JUNE Calendar of Events
1 THURSDAY 4SUNDAY
6:00 PM Seekers Prayer No Children's Church
8:30 AM 9:45 AM 11:00 AM 6:00 PM
7
Classic Worship Sunday School Elevate Worship Evening Worship
WEDNESDAY
15 THURSDAY 8:30 AM VBS Day 4
CLC HOURS
16
6:30 AM - 8 PM
6:00 PM Seekers Prayer
18
SUNDAY
8
10 11SUNDAY
SATURDAY
8:00 AM Heart to Heart Breakfast Celebration of the Lord's Supper No Children's Church
8:30 AM 9:45 AM 11:00 AM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM
Classic Worship Sunday School Elevate Worship Evening Worship Deacon Meeting
12 MONDAY 8:30 AM VBS Begins! 13 TUESDAY 8:30 AM VBS Day 2 14 WEDNESDAY
No Noon or Evening Activities
8:30 AM VBS Day 3
16 | Connect Magazine
Father's Day | No Evening Worship High School Camp Begins No Children's Church
Prayer Meeting
THURSDAY 7:00 AM Senior Adult Baseball Trip
Middle School Camp Begins
8:30 AM VBS Day 5
No Evening Activities
12:00 PM
FRIDAY
8:30 AM Classic Worship 9:45 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Elevate Worship
21
WEDNESDAY No Evening Activities
12:00 PM
Prayer Meeting
23 FRIDAY 2:30 PM 4th Friday
Foursomes
25SUNDAY
No Children's Church
8:30 AM Classic Worship 9:45 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Elevate Worship
6:00 PM Quarterly Business Meeting
28
WEDNESDAY No Evening Activities
12:00 PM
Prayer Meeting
30FRIDAY 3:00 PM Camp K12
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Wednesday
6:30 AM - 9 PM
Friday
6:30 AM - 1 PM
Saturday
9 AM - 1 PM
OFFICE HOURS Monday–Thursday 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday
8 AM - 1 PM
BROADCAST INFO Our service is broadcast on 90.3 WKWC on Sundays at 10 AM and Channel 72 Tuesdays at 7 PM and Wednesdays at 9 AM. Services are on a one week delay. Note: If sensitive information is mentioned in a service, it cannot be broadcast. An older service will be aired in its place.
MINISTER ON CALL If you have an after hours emergency, please call 270.683.3505 and press 9 to reach the minister on call.
MAY: A MONTH IN REVIEW
"If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together." —1 Corinthians 12:26
CHURCH FAMILY REPORTS
APRIL 21–MAY 24
SYMPATHY...We offer Christian
respectively; to Larry (Suzie) Horner
love and sympathy to Larry & Teresa
and Nate (Frances) Horner & family in
Gillaspie in the death of his son, Roy
the death LeLand Dean Horner, father
Gillaspie; to Mary Ann (Bob) Leucht
and grandfather respectively; to Patsy
and Millie Miller in the death of Nina
(Don) Bryant & family in the death of
Hayden, daughter and granddaughter
her mother, Dorothy Hudson.
WELCOME FIRST BAPTIST'S NEWEST MEMBERS!
Joined by Letter on April 9th Carol Parker
Joined by Letter on April 23rd Dana Hunt Pictured with her daughter, Haven
Joined by Letter on April 23rd Chelsea Lindsey
Joined by Letter on April 23rd Tony & Cindy Newby
Joined by Letter on April 23rd Chris & Dianna Thompson
Came Forward for Baptism on April 30th Lillian Chaney
Joined by Letter on May 14th Cathy Mann
June 2017 | 17
empty page, any thoughts on what can go here?
empty page, any thoughts on what can go here?
ALL ALL
NO MAN IS C ALLED TO LIVE AN ORDINARY LIFE FOR GOD N O M A N I S C A LJULY L E D 28 T -29 O L2017 I V E |ANASHVILLE, N O R D I N ATN RY LIFE FOR GOD MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM
JULY 28 -29 2017 | NASHVILLE, TN MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM Kurt Warner, Darryl Strawberry, the Benham Brothers, Russell Moore, Rick Burgess, JD Greear, Robby Gallaty, Eric Geiger, Tim Timmons, Brad Stine & More Kurt Warner, Darryl Strawberry, the Benham Brothers, Russell Moore, Rick Burgess, JD Greear, Robby Gallaty, Eric Geiger, Tim Timmons, Brad Stine & More
S TAAT R T FBCOWB.ORG/MAINEVENT I N G AT $ 5 9 REGISTER ONLINE L I F E W AY. C O M / M A I N E V E N T | 8 0 0 . 2 5 4 . 2 0 2 2