From the
What’s going on at
Pastor’s Heart
G
ray Area, Now in Technicolor” is the title of the series we will begin on Easter. This series is all about the so called Gray Areas of the Bible. In reality, there are no Gray Areas. Instead the Bible brings truth to us in Technicolor. We just have to decide if we believe G o d ’ s Word or not. For the remainder of this series, we are going to look at some of the hot topics of our day like Abortion, Homosexuality, Evolution, Capital Punishment, and Alcohol. Each week the title of the message is what the world says, but we are going to find what the Bible says to us as believers. Don’t miss a single Sunday and invite a friend to come with you. First Look is our membership class that gives you the opportunity to find out what First Denton is all about. This month First Look takes place on Wednesday, April 3 at 6 pm. If you are considering joining First Denton this is a great way for you to learn about our mission statement and our various ministries, and if you are ready, you can join that night. In His Love, Jeff
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First Denton
WEBS Wednesday Evening Bible Study is led by the Pastor. We are currently studying the book of Exodus. If you are interested in a more in-depth study of God’s Word, this is the study group for you. Join us every Wednesday night in the Fellowship Hall. Dinner will be served at 5 pm and the Bible study will begin at 6 pm. Dinner is only $4 for 13-up, $2 for 4-12, and Free for ages 0-3.
LIFE Groups Get Connected to LIFE– LIFE Groups help adults become developing followers of Christ by providing small groups of adults with similar ages, interests and/or family structures. They meet for interactive Bible study, connect through fellowship, become involved in ministry service and grow through accountability. LIFE Groups meet every Sunday at 8:15, 9:30, & 11 am. Get plugged in to a LIFE Group at First Denton. Go to FirstDenton.org/lifegroups for a complete listing of LIFE Groups or email jeffd@firstdenton. org.
First Look is for those who have recently joined First Denton and for those considering becoming members. The next “First Look” is Wednesday, April 3, at 6 pm in room S-111. Dinner will be served and our pastor will give you a “First Look” at First Baptist. You will be given the opportunity to join if you so desire. For more information or to RSVP, contact Judy Murphy at 940.382.2577, x150 or judym@firstdenton.org.
Staff
Anniversaries
Scott Venable..........................................April 15, 2006 Pastor of Mosaic Church, Chicago
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FirstDenton.org
What’s going on at
First Denton
Grief Recovery Support Group Coats for Christ is a ministry of First Denton that helps collect coats to donate to the Salvation Army. The coats you donate are used to help keep the homeless of Denton warm. Right now you have the opportunity to show Christ to someone by helping them stay warm at night and throughout the winter. Donations can be accepted at the “Coats for Christ” drop box in the main foyer or in the church office.
GriefShare is a special weekly seminar/support group for people grieving the death of someone close. It’s a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. You will learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life. Group sessions will meet Wednesday evenings, April 3-May 22 from 6-8:30pm in the Conference Room at First Baptist Denton. Contact Judy Murphy in the church office at 940.382.2577, x150 or judym@firstdenton.org for more information.
Spring 2013 High Attendance Emphasis Day Kick off Spring at First Denton on Opening Day! Dr. Jeff is continuing a new sermon series, “The Gray Area, Now in Technicolor.” Join us, after the 11 am service, at the Denton High Baseball field for some classic stadium food and a fun softball game. Wear your favorite baseball jersey to church (casual day) and bring lawn chairs or blankets for your family to enjoy the game. There will be a picnic style meal at the field. Invite your friends to church that day! This is a great day to have your entire LIFE group fellowship together as well out on the field! FirstDenton.org/opening-day BEACON
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Adult Ministries Ministry to Men Adult 55+ Ministry Reminder: 39ers in April has been moved to Friday, April 19. Our Men’s Quartet will be singing. We know you will enjoy the program. Be sure to thank Steve Vaughan, John Pearce, Ray Pittman, J. D. Walker and Keith McGee. Surely you are aware that Denton County has a greater horse population than any other county in Texas. We will enjoy a visit to two horse ranches on Wednesday, April 24. The cost of the visits, guide, meal, and bus transportation will be $25. We are doing a Fall Foliage Trip to Branson, October 14-18. We plan to make 2 stops at Mrs. Miller’s Farm. We will stay overnight at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and go to a Gospel Pre-show and the Jamboree. On Tuesday night in Branson we will hear the Oak Ridge Boys, then on Wednesday, the Texas Tenors and the Grand Jubilee Show. On Thursday we will see “New Jersey Nights” and the Presley’s Show. The cost is $650 which includes coach transportation, most meals, six shows and even some shopping time. The deposit of $50 per person is due at sign up. People outside of the church and 39ers may sign up by the time you receive this Beacon. A brochure will be available at 39ers on April 19.
Women’s Ministry April Bible Study - Mentor: How Along-the-Way Discipleship Will Change Your Life. We will journey together looking at what it really means to mentor and become equipped to walk out the Titus 2:3 relationship each woman is called to have. Join us Tuesdays at 9:30am in South Hall, or Wednesdays at 6pm in South Hall for 6 weeks. This study will start Tuesday April 2 and Wednesday April 3. Lunch Bunch - Join us for lunch on April 9, from 11:45am to 1pm, in the Fellowship Hall for a special program with Nancy Pannell while we enjoy “girlfriend” time and fellowship. A tasty salad and potato bar luncheon is included for $5. Please make lunch reservations by emailing jodean.earney@verizon.net or call 940.387.5003. Free childcare is provided (11:30am-1pm) by reservation only. Call 940.382.2577, x164 by April 2. Remember to bring a friend! Spirited Scrappers - April 19 & 20 is for those who want to leave a legacy through scrapbooking. Join our group for a great time of fellowship, inspiring ideas, and preserving those precious memories. Join us Friday 6pm-midnight, and Saturday 9am-6pm in our Fellowship Hall. Lunch provided with reservation, email Deanna Blackmon at blackmond@verizon.net.
Band of Brothers – Connecting men to God, His word and other men for the purpose of winning, growing and training God’s man in Christ. They all meet at the church in South Hall. Band of Brothers 3 meets Monday nights at 7 pm in the Conference Room.Band of Brothers 1 meets each Wednesday night at 7 pm. Band of Brothers 3 is invited to attend on Wednesday night on weeks they do not meet. Come join a group. Visit fbcdbandofbrothers.com.
Single Adult Ministry Single Adult LIFE Group With Kevin and Jessica Jenkins. Email at kevinj@firstdenton.org. Sundays at 9:30am in the Singles Portable on the South side of the Christian Life Center.
Generational Ministries Preschool Ministry MOPS - Join other moms on April 4 and 18 for fellowship and support. Contact Dawn Bath at mopsmom@yahoo.com for additional information. Opening Day - Don’t miss Opening Day on April 7 with our preschool team. Preschoolers bring a friend and come run the bases. You will receive a special Opening Day prize. Wear your favorite team jersey. I Love Denton Day - April 13 preschool families will have an opportunity to minister to residents at The Vintage. Meet at the church at 10:30 am. We will deliver gifts to residents and sing, then go back to the church for lunch. Sign up at FirstDenton.org/ ilovedenton or at the preschool desk. Parent Night Out - Mark your calendar for the next PNO on May 10 from 6-10 pm. Register at FirstDenton.org/preschool or you can stop by the preschool desk. Registration deadline is May 5. Preschool VBS, June 17-21 from 9-noon - We are enlisting our Preschool team for 2013. Preschool classes are available for all VBS workers. Choose one orientation meeting to attend, April 24 at 6 pm or April 28 at 12:30 pm. Contact Shirley Jones at 940.382.2577, x161 and join us at the theme park.
June 17-21 9 am–Noon Completed Kinder.–4th grades
I Love Denton Day - April 13 we will give our time to Woman to Woman’s resale shop Twice as Nice. We’ll share our time and help them organize warehouse items for the resale store. Morning or afternoon shifts available. More info at FirstDenton.org/ilovedenton. Page 4
FirstDenton.org
Generational Ministries Kid’s Ministry Kids VBS - Hold on tight for the ride of your life with VBS 2013! Open enrollment is for completed Kindergarten through 4th grade. Please keep all hands, arms and personal belongings in the ride at all times. Join us for a weeklong adventure at Colossal Coaster World. Be at the Main Gate at 9am on Monday, June 17. The adventure will run each day until noon, thru Friday, June 21. Registration begins soon. We will host two VBS workshops for all adults who want to serve in any capacity in Vacation Bible School. We have two choices: Wednesday, April 24 from 6-8pm in the Kids Worship Room or Sunday, April 28 from 12:30 -2:30pm in the Kids Worship Room. RSVP to stacieb@firstdenton.org if attending and for childcare. VBX 2013 - for students who have completed 5th - 7th grades. Brace yourselves for an extreme roller coaster experience with Thrill Seekers! Meet at the Main Gate (CLC) on Sunday, June 16 at 6:30pm. It will run each evening through Wednesday, June 19 from 6:30 – 8:30pm. Make plans this summer to bring all of your friends because you’ll want to see their faces after the ride. Registration to begin soon. We will be hosting our VBX workshops for all adults, who want to serve in any capacity in VBX on Wednesday, May 22 from 6-7:30pm or Sunday, June 2 from 12:30–2 pm in the Kids Worship Room. Please RSVP to stacieb@firstdenton.org if planning to attend.
Pret
Camp *** *** Hide & S k*** ***
Student Life for Kids Camp: Hide & Seek Who’s Invited? All current preteens in 3rd through 6th grades When &Where? July 9–12 (date change);Austin College, Sherman,TX What to Expect? Come join us for an incredible week of Hide & Seek! At Student Life for Kids Camp, we will dive into the Word and study the glorious truths and the good news of the Kingdom of God. This year’s Camp Pastor will be Chris Kinsley. Taylor Anderson will lead worship along with the SL4K Band. Key Verse: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.� (Matthew 6:33) Cost & Deadlines: $275* *Registration has been ongoing since December of 2012. You will need to pay $125, which includes your non-refundable deposit of $75, ASAP. Once your preteen’s deposit and first $50 is received, you will need to pay $50/month for March – May. Sonic cards are available to sell to help your preteen pay their own way. However, they will only be available to sell after initial deposit is received. Please register online at FirstDenton.org/kids-summer or bring your check in a Preteen Camp registration envelope (2nd Floor communication rack) to the Kids Ministry Office ASAP to reserve your preteen’s spot. Space is limited. For
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Kid’s Ministry (cont.) Sponsors Needed As with all Kids Ministry Camps, we need adult sponsors to accompany us this year. Please contact Pastor Chris at chrisb@ firstdenton.org if you would like to sign up to be a Life Coach (Sponsor). Depending on the number attending, we still need guys and ladies. Scholarships Available As with all Kids Ministry Camps, we have some scholarship assistance available on a first come, first serve basis. Please contact Pastor Chris at chrisb@firstdenton.org if you want to apply for scholarship assistance this year. To help pay your own way, consider selling $5 Sonic cards. They are available in the Kids Office weekly and on Sundays during transition times in the Kids Resource Room. I Love Denton Day – Kids Style! - Bring your family for a brief meeting, 12:30pm in Fellowship Hall and then trek over to Primrose Senior Center on University. We will be planting flowers and providing a treasure hunt experience for the resident’s grandchildren. Please sign up online at FirstDenton.org/ilovedenton.
Student Ministry Spring Garage Sale - The Student Ministry is preparing for a Spring Garage Sale Fundraiser and would love to have your donations. We can arrange to pick up your items or you may bring them to us. We could use your help with pricing, organization or set-up. If you know any available storage near the church we could use for this event, please let us know. This garage sale will generate money that will directly contribute to a student being able to attend a mission trip or camp. Taking donations until April 3. For questions email Laura Collier at laurac@firstdenton.org. Pine Cove Spring Retreat - This year’s Spring Retreat is for Middle School and High School students. We will leave Friday, April 26 from the CLC at 5 pm. The cost is $100 due by April 7. Senior Sunday - May 26. All seniors will be recognized during the 11 am worship service followed by a lunch for seniors and immediate family in Fellowship Hall. The picture due date is April 7. Be looking for your informative letter from your High School LIFE Group leaders in the mail. Any questions, contact Jane Naugher mamajane7@gmail.com, 940.391.5170. Youthiversity is our crazy, awesome 3 night event for all MS and HS students. Scheduled for June 23-25. More details to follow! Upcoming Student Ministry Events: Summer Camp – MS will be going to Glorieta, NM, June 30-July 6, the cost is $350 and a deposit of $100 is due now. HS will be going to Panama City, FL July 23-28, the cost is $350 and a $100 deposit is due now. Mission Trips – MS will be serving in McAllen, TX July 29-August 3, the cost is $325 and a deposit of $75 is due now. See The Post for details or contact Doug Giles at dougg@firstdenton.org. HS will be serving in Jamaica July 12-19, the cost is $850 and a $100 deposit is due now. See The Post for trip details or contact Doug Giles at dougg@firstdenton.org. Page 5
Mission News
Additional Ministries First Refuge Ministries
55 University leaders and students had a great week in Panama City on the Beach Reach Mission Trip. You can be assured many lives were changed as a result. Please keep them in your prayers. The rest of the 2013 Mission Trips will be happening very shortly so be praying for them also. Our goal is to send 200 church members on mission trips this year. - Doug Giles World Mission Offering Emphasis - In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells the disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” In 2013, First Denton is embarking on fulfilling this scripture by revamping our World Mission Offering to include a plan to reach others in Jerusalem (Denton), Judea (Texas), Samaria (North America), and the ends of the earth (International). Our giving goal to accomplish our plans for 2013 is $225,000. As of March 13, $146,307 has already been given to our 2013 goal. You can see complete list of goals at FirstDenton.org/missionsgiving. 2013 Mission Trips - Please be praying for our mission teams as they prepare for 2013 mission trips to Honduras, Ethiopia, Haiti, Key West, Chicago, Jamaica, McAllen, Kenya, and India. Please visit our website at FirstDenton.org/missiontrips to get details on all the trips.
I Love Denton Day Saturday, April 13 is our 2013 I Love Denton Day. There will be several projects to choose from as we go out as a church and show the love of Jesus to our community. More information is available at FirstDenton.org/ilovedenton. Newton Rayzor Reflection Garden We are in need of recycled items such as outdoor planters, benches, tables, etc. for Newton Rayzor’s Reflection Garden that we are doing on I Love Denton Day. Please contact Jodi Massey at 940.484.4384 or jodim@firstdenton.org if you have anything you would like to donate. Newton Rayzor Back To School Event We will once again be adopting children in need of school supplies and other back-to-school necessities from Newton Rayzor Elementary School. Please stop by our table outside the library beginning Sunday, April 7 to select a child. Each child will receive a backpack and school supplies for that child’s grade level. You can also purchase a new pair of shoes or other items to help make going back to school special. Please contact Jodi Massey at 940.484.4384 or jodim@firstdenton.org for additional information. Page 6
First Refuge Ministries is continuing to take volunteers as we expand the ministry. Those wanting to volunteer can get an application from the church office or from First Refuge. To give directly, designate “First Refuge” on your offering. Visit First Refuge Ministries at FirstDenton.org/firstrefuge. First Refuge Cancer Support Group - First Refuge has started a Cancer Support Group Ministry. If you are a cancer survivor, newly diagnosed or in the middle of the storm, come see what God has in store for you. This month we will meet April 9 and April 23 at 6:30 pm. The meetings are at First Refuge Ministry Building at 1701 Broadway (two blocks south of First Baptist Denton at corner of Malone and Broadway). For more information, contact Clint Blackmon at 469.222.4575 or clint@temsco.com. First Refuge Recovery Support Groups Making Peace with Your Past Women’s Group Making Peace with Your Past Men’s Group Moving Beyond Your Past Support Group Introduction to Celebrate Recovery and Facilitator Training Please contact Shirley Jones at 940.382.2577, x161 for detailed information. Register at the tables outside the Worship Center. First Refuge Food Pantry - First Refuge Food Pantry served more than 250 people with groceries during the month of February. Please remember to pray for our volunteers as they show the love of Christ to the people in our community. We still have a great opportunity for one or two individuals to help us transport food deliveries to the Food Pantry. Please contact Jodi Massey at 940.484.4384 or jodim@firstdenton.org for more information. Food Pantry Sunday - April 14 is Food Pantry Sunday and we are requesting canned soups. Please drop off these items in our new Food Pantry containers located at each church entrance. Contact Doug Giles at dougg@firstdenton.org or 940.484.4384 for any mission related information.
Additional Ministries Special Needs Ministry will have its next worship God’s GPS service and fellowship time on April at 3 pm in the CLC. This event GPS Perfect 13is designed for the developmentally Souls disabled, their families, and their first denton’s special needs minist y
caregivers but everyone is invited. Grab a friend and join us; you will be glad that you did. FirstDenton.org
Additional Ministries Recreation Ministry FBCD Masters - Our annual First Denton Masters Tournament will be April 6 at the Lake Park Golf Club in Lewisville. Tee off is at 7:30 am. The format is a 2 man best ball. The cost is $40 per player and you can email Brad Cockrell at bradc@firstdenton.org or call 940.382.2577, x171 by April 1 to sign up. 2013 Golf Tournaments: April 6............FBCD Masters May 31...........In His Grip Invitational June 29...........FBCD Players Championship August 10.......Beat the Heat Summer Championship September 7...Fall Memorial October 6........Beat the Staff Championship
the
GRAY
AREA
NOW IN TECHNICOLOR a new sermon series from Dr. Jeff Williams
Beginning March 31
Family Ministry Family Fun Movie Night Sunday, April 14 6 pm, Fellowship Hall We will be showing “Who is Simon Miller?” Please be aware that some of the action scenes in this movie do include gun use and fist fights. There is no foul language. This movie does not have a rating. We will serve hotdogs, popcorn, and drinks and watch this action packed thriller on the big screen. Bring the whole family. Couples Retreat - Our Spring Couples Retreat is May 3 - May 4. We will be staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in North Grapevine. Lyndy Phillips will be our speaker. Lyndy will be both informative and entertaining. The cost is just $75 per couple and includes room, dinner on Friday and breakfast on Saturday morning. This is going to be a great weekend to enjoy some quality time with your spouse. Register online at FirstDenton.org/couples by April 19.
In this series we will be using the Bible to convert societal gray areas to technicolor. Things like homosexuality, abortion, evolution and the road to Heaven, The Bible takes those subjects and makes them crystal clear, in vivid Technicolor.
Check out the messages in this series: March 31
All Religions Lead to Heaven April 7
Same Sex Marriage is the Same April 14
It’s Just a Fetus April 21
It All Started With a Big Bang April 28
Eat Drink & Be Merry May 5
Capital Punishment Doesn’t Deter Crime
FirstDenton.org/gray BEACON
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First Baptist Beacon
FIRST BAPTIST BEACON (USPS571400) is published monthly by First Baptist Church, 1100 Malone Street, Denton, Texas 76201-2799. Periodical Postage Paid at Denton,Texas.
Postmaster: Please send requests for change of address to First Baptist Church, 1100 Malone St, Denton, TX 76201-2799.
Christian Sympathy Scott & Bebe Reib on the death of his grandmother, Jean Reib, greatgrandmother of Jake & Luke
In Memorium Keating Armstrong Ronnie Roberts
Willis & Sandy Cash on the death of his sister, Jewel Bernay Robertson Mary Jo Armstrong on the death of her husband, Keating Armstrong Janet Hardegree on the death of her father, Kenneth Byars, brother-in-law of Sue Bizzle William & Judy Murphy on the death of his sister, Maureen Lathan Donna Lynch & Sara Shelton on the death of their mother, Joyce Lynch, grandmother of Carson Terry Roberts on the death of her husband, Ronnie Roberts
First Baptist Church Denton, TX • 940.382.2577 • FirstDenton.org
Sunday Schedule
8:15 am..........................Adults 55+ LIFE Groups 9:30 am.......................LIFE Groups and Worship 11:00 am.....................LIFE Groups and Worship
FBCD Staff Dr. Jeff Williams, Senior Pastor......................150 Jeff Dooley, Senior Associate Pastor .............111 Keith McGee, Minister of Music/Worship........141 Jim Markle, Minister of Business Admi...........121 Brad Cockrell, Associate Pastor.....................171 Cliff Feeler, Minister to Adults 55+..................155 Chris Barfield, Minister to Kids ......................131 Shirley Jones, Min. of Preschool Education...161 Mark Caswell, Minister to Students ...............191 Austin Wadlow,University Minister..................181 Todd Spurgin, Facilities Manager...................127 Lisa Lee, Senior Accountant...........................120 Judy Murphy, Pastoral Ministry Asst...............150 Brad Hill, Communications Director................112 Doug Giles, Missions Minister ...... 940.484.4384 Maegan Woodard, CDC Director ...................167
Births Justin & Rachel Roberts on the birth of their daughter, Alexa Roberts, granddaughter of Steve & Rhonda Roberts and Ray & Becky Knight and greatgranddaughter of Joe & Rynell Novak and Larry & Frances Schneider
Wednesday Menu April 3 - Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Vegetable & Hot Rolls April 10 - Taco Salad w/ Rice and Beans April 17 - Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Green Beans, Pizza for kids April 24 - Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, French Fries All items for our Wednesday evening meals are available on a first come, first serve basis.
Prices: Age 0-3........Free Age 4-12,........$2 Age 13-up.......$4
This Month’s Giving Worship Attendance Average................................1379 LIFE Group Average Attendance March 2013 Adult ....................................................................224 Adults 55+ ...........................................................217 Single Adults...........................................................11 College ................................................................100 International ............................................................7 Youth ...................................................................122 Kids .....................................................................141 Preschool ............................................................150 Other .....................................................................25 TOTAL (Average) .................................................996 Budget & Designated Funds* Annual Budget..........................................$3,675,000 Budget Received This Month........................283,836 Budget Needed, YTD....................................777,404 Budget Received, YTD.................................775,085 Building Fund, Total.......................................690,685 Over/Under Budget.......................................(2,319) TOTAL World Missions, YTD........................148,399 Homebound Report: February 2013 Visits: 82 • Cards/calls: 63 Magazines: 31 • CD’s/DVD’s: 8 • Favors: 32
Library Hours Sunday 9:15 am-12:30 pm Monday 8:30 am-3:30 pm Wednesday 8:30 am-2:30 pm 6 pm-8 pm Other times may be available. Contact Dianna Ray 940.382.2577, x109 or library@firstdenton.org. Free books will be offered the first Wednesday night of each month in the Fellowship Hall during the evening meal.
Following Christ: How to Become a Christian We joyfully share this information with you in anticipation of meeting you personally. Whether you are new to the community or have been here awhile, we have a place for you. But even more importantly, God has a place for you and wants to change your life! If you want to accept Christ as your Savior and have certainty of eternal life, then pray this prayer from your heart: “Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner and have displeased You in many ways. I believe You died for my sin and only through faith in Your death and resurrection can I be forgiven. I want to turn from my sin and ask you to come into my life as my Savior and Lord. From this day on, I will follow You by living a life that pleases You. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me. Amen.” After you have received Jesus Christ into your life, tell a Christian friend about the important decision you have made. Follow Christ in believer’s baptism and church membership. Grow in faith and enjoy new friends in Christ by becoming part of His church and attending the Bible study class the church has just for you. You’ll find others who will love and support you.