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September 2010 Our Fall Worship Schedule Resumes Sunday, September 12
Beginning the Sunday after Labor Day, we will resume our Fall Worship Schedule with Sunday Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.. The Chancel Choir will sing at the 11:00 worship service. Church School for all ages is at 9:30 a.m..
We have had a strong summer of worship attendance even though families have been in-and-out for times of vacation and re-creation. We look forward to seeing you all that Sunday.
A Reminder Note
Just a note that our Weekly Bulletins and monthly Newsletters are posted on our church Website with lots of other useful information and links. Check it out at www.umccadillac.org
September Hospitality Committee
Chairwomen: Betty Mayer Joan Irvine
Iva Azelton Kelly Ball Tasha Blake Kathy Box Linda Davis Dorothy Dean Lori Glynn Jerri Hubbell Deborah Janway Diane Leavell Evie Lux Betty Mitchell Deloris Parker Eileen Richard Sue Smith Helen Vivian
The next Equal Exchange Coffee Sale will be on Sunday, September 5 following both services.
September VOLUNTEER Ministry
September Birthdays
1 Tom Bihlmeyer, Judy Coffey, Dick Loughmiller, Adrian Slachter 2 Lois Miller, Lisa Myers 3 Stephanie Barron, Joan Deer 4 Margaret Benninger 6 Jerry Deer, Craig Greenman, Ben Redes, Waneta Springberg 7 Phyllis King, Gerald Leavell, Jane Whitney 8 Betsy George, Ron Vaughan, Helen Vivian 9 Katie Brastrom 10 Larry Payne 12 Keith Lake 14 Amy Cardinal, Debbie Pant, Ron Truax 15 Kelly Ball 16 Mary Alene Culver, Jeff Marion, Bill Rau 18 Eva Barnes, Joyce Cinco, Tim Hillard 19 Tara McKibben 20 Diana Burrill, Lorna Geeseman, Luke Nelson 21 Chloe Ostema 22 Jack Boyd, Linda Davis 23 Rebecca Janway 24 Kathy Payne, Don Rennie, Jim Weaver, Karen Zenner 25 Sally Bassett, Kevin Cummings, Chet Wells 26 Lauryn Blake, Keenan Cooper 27 Jacob Farmer 28 Jennifer McKibben 29 Larry Bowman, Justin Thompson 30 Dorothy Dean, Betty Spaulding
The new entrance doors are in place and the handicap buttons are now operational. There are a few new things to know about the doors. First, to activate the blue handicap button, a switch must be turned on when the doors are first unlocked and opened. There are two switches at our front entrance and one switch at the kitchen entrance. And at the end of the day, or when everyone leaves our building, the switches must be turned off before locking the doors. This will prevent the buttons being used and burning up the motors and batteries that operate the doors.
We are having some cement work done outside both handicap doors, creating a smooth entrance for wheelchairs.
Our ceiling fans in the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall are doing a good job of circulating the air. It was decided, on the recommendation of an electrician, that the rooms would definitely stay cooler if the fans remain on 24/7; so we will leave them on. However, all windows should be closed and locked at the end of the day. In particular, classroom windows should be double checked when leaving the room on Sundays, as they are frequently found open by NOC cleaning staff on Mondays.
Let us care for our church the same way we care for our home.
September’s Loose Plate Offering will go toward our donation to Crop Hunger Walk 2010. Our church goal is $2,000. this year. Most of this will be raised by the walkers who will gather donations, but every penny we collect will help us towards our goal. We are also challenging the congregation to 100% participation for this year’s Crop Hunger Walk. Please see the article about the Crop Hunger Walk in this Newsletter edition. We understand that not everyone can walk or pledge money, so we have created a list of ways that you can participate. It is as follows:
We are sure that there are additional ways that each of us could participate, so let the church office (775-5362) know if you can help out in any way.
This month the non-perishable food and paper products collected will be given to the Jennings Community Church Food Pantry. This is a small restart church in the Jennings area that provides Christian services to that community and surrounding areas.
New Books on the Book Cart
Fiction Grace In Thine Eyes by Liz Curtis Higgs
Dawn’s Prelude by Tracie Peterson
Non-Fiction
Half The Sky by Kristof and WuDunn is a book that takes its title from a Chinese Proverb, “women hold up half the sky.” It tells the account of women and girls suffering abuse in Africa and Asia; how some escape and others that need our help.
Help Our Friends Stay Connected
Some additional members and friends of our congregation have gone into a care facility, are now shut-in or in our circle of care.
Lakeview Lutheran Manor 360 Pearl Street • Cadillac Evelyn Peterson (618) • Norma Webber (614)
Curry House 5858 S. 47 Road • Cadillac Eloise Baker (110) and Irene Szymke (107)
Green Acres 235 Pearl Street • Cadillac Virginia Linn
Simons AFCH 2882 E. M-55 • Cadillac Waneta Springberg
Belle Oakes 2353 S. LaChance Road • Lake City 49651 Doris Brenneman and Alene Culver
At Home Sherm Martin 10575 E 36½ Rd. • Cadillac
Janet Root - 224 Barbara Street • Cadillac
Hazel Jarvis - Kirtland Terrace - Apt. 603 She would appreciate short visits & calls.
Hilda Fox 409 Hersey • Cadillac
All would appreciate cards, prayers and visits.
At our August 9 meeting we learned that we had 10 individuals/couples signed up for the Dave Ramsey program, which we are pleased to report considering it is our first time presenting the program. We are offering childcare during the class for those who need this service. Please call the church office if you would like to participate in this valuable program. Even though one class has already taken place, you can still catch up! Cost is $100; you will receive a box containing informational CD's, books, etc. AND you will be able to attend any other Ramsey class free of charge anytime and anyplace in the future. Many thanks to Bob Campbell for leading the class!
For the month of July we reported to the congregation that we had a net income of negative $2400.87. For the year, we have had a net loss of $5324.61, which simply means that we have spent more money than we are taking in through our collective giving. The committee talked at length about ways to communicate to the congregation about our finances and how this downward trend could eventually lead to serious problems. All church committees will soon be receiving their budget request forms. We in the finance committee are asking that budgets be reviewed very closely to see if there are any areas that can be "trimmed." We know that our church programs are important and do not want to cut important ministry funding. We are working on the upcoming Stewardship Campaign and prayerfully ask the congregation to pay close attention to the message that Pastor Tom and members of our congregation will be sharing during this important event!
Memorial Garden
Our Church Memorial Garden is in full bloom this summer with the center bed radiant with color and the hydrangea and hostas really in full array.
We want to remind the members and friends of our church that cremains can be interred in the garden. There is no fee but if the family would desire to make a contribution, the money donated will be used to help to maintain the garden.
A reminder that this is a very natural and earthy garden, there are no containers or markers in the garden. Each person interred will have a page in the remembrance book as well as one in the permanent records of the church.
If you need any help or have any questions, you may contact Pastor Tom or Judy at 775-5362 or Kay Hinkston, chair of the Memorial Garden.
This year’s CROP Hunger Walk will be held on Sunday, September 26 at 1:00 p.m. with a soup meal following,
In case you are unfamiliar with this mission, let us share some information with you.
We will be sharing more information with you on the Sundays preceding the walk.
UMW Readers
The United Methodist Women at our church read 53 different books for the 2010 UMW Reading Program. We increased our knowledge, gained awareness, and deepened our faith. Congratulations to the 23 women who completed the 2010 Reading Program!
Fifteen completing Plan 1 were Sally Bassett, Jo Brown, Mary Buehler, Brooke Clark, Leta Corwin, Kris Darrow, Linda Davis, Donna Freeland, Lori Glynn, Helen Quinn, Marie Rennie, Rachel Stewart, Marilyn Truax, Ann Vaughan and Jane Wightman.
Five completing Plan 2 were Betty Dumont, Ona Greenman, Margaret Himes, Joyce Seward and Bonnie Stephan.
Three completing Plan 3 were Donna Crance, Kay Hinkston and Sally Smith.
Please plan to attend the UMW District Annual Meeting to receive your Certificate of Recognition in person
We are in need of volunteers to help in three areas of Sunday School this year.
If you believe the Lord is leading you to work with the Sunday School, please contact Dave Bassett, Education Committee Chair or by email at revdaveb “at” sbcglobal.net
Church Librarian
Audrey Blevins has been our Church Librarian for the past three years. She has kept us up-to-date on new books recommended books and keep both the library and book cart in tiptop shape. She is finding that it is time for her to step aside from this responsibility.
We are currently looking for some who enjoys reading and would like to undertake this important work in the life of our congregation. Audrey is willing to show the new librarian the “ropes” to help get them started. Starting date would be in October.
If you would be interested or need more information, please contact Judy at 775-5362 or email her at jcoffeyumc “at” yahoo.com.
Remembering in Prayer . . .
Janet Root, Clara Handy, Norma Webber, Evelyn Peterson, Deb Bihlmeyer, Justin Bruner, our College Students, those serving in our Military, the families of Kay Rellick Bea Baker and John Hines as they grieve the loss of their loved ones, Hazel Jarvis, Pat McCormick, Donna McCormick, all our students and school personnel as they begin a new year of school,,
The UMW General Meeting will be held on Thursday, September 9 at 7:00 p.m.. The program, entitled UMW 101, will be presented by Linda Darrow, from the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church. Dessert will be served. Child care will be provided. Please call Marilyn Truax if you will be needed child care.
Circle Chairs will meet between services on Sunday, September 12 with Sally Bassett to start updating program books for next year.
An organizational meeting on our upcoming Beginners Quilting Class will be held on Wednesday, September 8 at 7:00 p.m.. Lots of cool information will be shared, including what you will need to bring for your first class as well as the date and time of the class. Please call Donna Freeland with any questions.
We had four people attend the MSU Extension Food Preservation Classes on August 9 and 11. This was a great class with a great deal of information.
UMW Upcoming Meetings
Saturday, October 2 Grand Traverse District UMW Meeting in Petoskey
Monday, October 4 @ 1:30 p.m. Executive Board Meeting
Saturday, October 16 West Michigan Conference Annual Meeting at Holland UMC
Don’t forget the Holiday Bazaar is coming November 6! We hope everyone is building and sewing and baking and creating. This church has a wonderful tradition of hosting a great Holiday Bazaar. If you are working on items for the Garden Room for example: bird houses, please contact Shelley DeCoeur or Lynn Cummings.
Mentor Mack Bazaar Happenings
Do you like to laugh, get to know other women, eat yummy food, make a difference and craft? Have you always wanted to make something for the Bazaar but are unsure what to do, do not have the time to gather supplies or do not think you are a crafter?
in
the Fellowship Hall
Shelley DeCoeur Lynn Cummings
Also we are collecting used jewelry, purses, shoes, books & White Elephants. As you are cleaning your closets or reorganizing your summer into fall wardrobe, set aside some of these items for the Treasure Boutique, Jewelry Room, Books & Holiday clothing. Secret Saints ~ 2010-2011
It is September once again and we are looking forward to another year of our Secret Saints program. This is a volunteer ministry that allows a church member to choose a college student of their choice and correspond with them “anonymously” throughout the school year to let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers. Then next May, we will reveal the Saints identity during our end of year celebration. This is a wonderful program and I always receive a lot of positive feedback, both from the students and the Saints on how much they each have enjoyed the contact. It is also a great way to make a new friend!
Our sign up will be after both services on September 19 and 26. Please consider being a part of this ministry for the upcoming school year. If you have questions or would like to sign up early, please give me a call and I will be glad to help you! Deborah Janway
Fall Equinox is on September 23 Spectacular September
September 5
Worship at 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost Holy Communion will be served
Text: Luke 14:25-33 The Towers of Jesus
September 12
Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost Fall Worship Schedule Begins Church School Resumes at 9:30 a.m. Worship at 8:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. with classes for all ages 3 to 100+ Child Care for those under 3 Invite your friends and family to join you.
The Chancel Choir will be singing at the 11:00 a.m. worship service.
Text: Luke 15:1-10 Sheep Wander Away One Nibble at a Time. So Do People Who Try a Little Taste of Forbidden Fruit.
September 19 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Worship at 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. Church
School at 9:30 a.m. The Balm That Heals The Sin Sick Soul
Sign-up following each worship service to be a Secret Saint for one of our College Students for the 2010-2011 School Year
September 26 Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost Worship at 8:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Church School at 9:30 a.m. Stewardship Campaign Begins
New Bibles will be given to our Third Graders at 11:00
Secret Saint sign-up continues
Text: 1 Timothy 6:6-19 Money Matters, for Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also
Junior Disciples welcome all boys and girls grades 6-8. The Junior Disciples meet regularly on Sundays for youth meetings and also participate in a variety of events geared toward building Christian experiences & friendships as well as service projects. Fall season kick off for Junior Disciples will be on September 12 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.. We will return to the fall schedule with a big Birthday Party Celebration for all our members. This is the first opportunity for everyone to meet each other, so we are hoping every youth will attend! There will be cake, balloons, games & prizes! Plus the opportunity to sign all the birthday postcards that are sent out throughout the year.
We will also hold the fall JD Youth & Parents Meeting on Sunday, September 19 from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. (during our regular youth meeting time). This will be a time for planning fall/winter activities everyone will enjoy, coordinating snacks & scheduling other events. We hope all JD’s & parents can attend. If you are unable to be present, please contact Youth Coordinator, Debbie Pant at 779-2999, to get a copy of the prospective schedule and sign up to volunteer for a few activities.
Kans For Kids
The Junior Disciples are collecting your empty soda bottles & cans to sponsor international youth in Kenya and Lebanon through World Vision. See the bulletin board in the Education Wing for the latest photos and letters from both girls as well as instructions on how to write to them. Collection bins for your cans and bottles can be found near the women’s restroom. Returning cans in September will be Debbie Pant & Family.
Sr. High YOUth
All high school age youth and friends are invited to attend Sr. High YOUth activities. The teens meet regularly for YOUth group meetings, as well as fellowship activities, spiritual growth experiences and service events. The return to fall hours begins on Sunday, September 12 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. with our Annual Birthday Bash. It will be our first opportunity to welcome new members & get to see some fresh faces. We hope everyone will attend; friends are welcome!
On Sunday, September 19 • 5:00 - 6:30 p.m., we will hold a YOUth and Parents Meeting. We will discuss mission trip opportunities for the next two years, our fall schedule, activities and events we would like to participate in this fall/winter, as well as some volunteer sign up opportunities for our parents. If you are interested in Sr. High YOUth but not able to attend the meeting please see or contact Youth Coordinator, Debbie Pant, to get a copy of the prospective schedule and sign up to volunteer for a few activities.
September YOUth Schedule
Fall Kick Off Birthday Parties Sunday, September 12 Sr. High YOUth 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. JD’s 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Youth & Parent Fall Planning Meeting Sunday, September 19 Sr. High YOUth meet 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. JD’s meet from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
SR. High Regular YOUth Group Meeting Sunday, September 26 • 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
There are three stages in the work of God: Impossible, difficult and done. James Hudson Taylor
On Wednesday, September 8, you have an opportunity to join with other Christians across our greater community in praying for our schools. Churches of the Cadillac Area Ministerial Association have taken a school to especially hold in prayer.
Our church will be specifically praying for Cadillac High School. We will gather near the front entrance of the school at 7:00 p.m. to share in prayer together. Our prayers will be for a good school year for all the students and staff and for safety and protection for all. It would be wonderful to have at least a couple of dozen persons come and pray together. Mark your calendar and plan to come and share in praying for our young people and our school staff.
Bless the Students
Dear Lord Jesus, bless the children and youth of this nation, returning to their schools and colleges. May your Holy Spirit enlighten their minds, purify their vision and strengthen their wills. Protect them as they learn in the classroom and participate in activities outside it. May they learn to follow in your steps, just as you grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Amen.
Our program of Christian Education for fall begins on Rally Day, Sunday, September 12 at 9:30 a.m. as Church School for all ages goes into high gear. We have classes for all from ages three through 100+. Staffed Child Care is available for those under three. Two adult studies will be offered as well as our One Room School for students Kindergarten thru 5th Grade. Junior High and Senior High classes are open to all youth in grades six through twelve. Come and learn more about God’s love, Jesus and his teachings and the life of faith. See you there September 12!!!
The Bell Choir will begin on Sunday, September 12 at 9:30 a.m. in the Corbin Room. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Tonja Hinkston, Bell Choir Director.
The Chancel Choir still has room for you!! We practice on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.. We sing four-part (SATB) music. No auditions are necessary -- just a willing spirit. We have a place and a robe waiting for you!!
For those who attend early worship: we need your help! The Coffee Hour held immediately following the early worship service needs hosts. It is a fairly simple process. The coffee pots and cold drinks are prepared for you - just plug in the coffee. Cookies are available to be placed on serving trays. Moving the drinks and cookies to the serving table and serving the coffee is all that is needed. If you would like to bring some cookies you have prepared, that would be wonderful. Please sign-up on the Volunteer Ministry for this important ministry in the life of our congregation - you are needed!
Only Today
There
are two days in every week about which we shouldn’t worry.
During, August, three saints of our congregation passed away. We remember these dear ones and offer love and care to their families at this time of loss.
Bea Baker went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 1 at Mercy Hospital at the age of 97 years. She grew up in Cadillac, married Harvey Baker in 1929. In her younger years, Bea worked in retail stores in downtown Cadillac including Millikens. Later, they purchased Harvey’s Market on Chestnut Street which they ran 12 hours a day for more than 27 years. It was a popular place for students from CHS to hang out. She became a confidant to many of the kids. Into her life, daughter, Phyllis was born. And as Phyllis grew up and married, a grandson, Jim and granddaughter, Penny, were born into the family. In 1980, she sold the store and moved into Harborview. She was the “unofficial” social director and helped with Meals-on-Wheels. Bea had five generations of her family including great-granddaughter, Sarah, and great-great grandson, Camden. Bea loved the weekly sermons on tape, the yearly caroling and all the hand-crafted gifts/cards which arrived made by the children of the church. Her funeral service was held at the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home August 4 with Parish Assistant Judy Coffey officiating. Burial took place at Maple Hill Cemetery. Our deepest sympathy to her family, Phyllis Cornell, Jim & Rebecca Hagberg, Penny and Mike Jenema, Sara, Joe & Camden Clugston.
Kay Rellick died peacefully on August 7 at Belle Oakes. Kay had just celebrated her 90th birthday on June 21. Kay was born in Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania and grew up in Indiana, PA. During her teen years, she worked in a department store and modeled. She married Ray Ryen and together they had two daughters, Patty and Sandra (Snookie.) Kay was raised Methodist as a child but in her mid-adult years, she was baptized and join the First Christian Church in Indiana. Later she moved to the Detroit area. Eventually, she came to Cadillac to be near her daughter. She became affiliated with our congregation and joined the Dorcas Circle and Friendship Chain. She enjoyed the companionship of the women and loved to go out with them for meetings or just chat on the phone. Kay was a daily reader of the scriptures, studied them and listened to Christian teaching. Her Bibles and hymnal overflowed with notes, songs and special articles which had meaning for her. Ill health began to creep in. Kay needed more care than what could be provided at home. She moved to Belle Oakes. Tender care was provide by her family and the care staff. Surrounded by her loved ones, Jesus came and took her home on August 7. Her funeral service was held in our sanctuary August 10 with Parish Assistant Judy Coffey and Pastor Tom Ball officiating.
John Hines was called home by the Lord on August 9 at Mercy Hospital. John, too, had just celebrated his 90th birthday on July 10 with family and friends. He was born in Hartford City, Indiana. John and his bride, Ruth, were married on January 31, 1942. He served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Dennis DE 405 during World War II. John continued to serve in the Navy until retiring in 1962. He retired from the Fleet Reserve in 1973. His second career was with Cadillac Rubber and Plastics, where he retired in 1983. John and Ruth were members of the Selma Street UMC joining in 1959. For over twenty years, they wintered in Florida. John served on the original building committee for the new church and other committees over the years. John enjoyed fishing, tennis, reading, writing letters to the editor of the Cadillac News and most of all spending time with his family. John died peacefully on Monday, August 9 surrounded by those he loved most. His Memorial Service was held in our sanctuary on August 12 with Pastor Tom Ball and Judy Coffey officiating. Our hearts go out to Ruth, his wife of 68+ years, children, Patty, Johnny and Angie and their families, at this time of loss.
Former Choir Director, Ken Dodge died of a heart attack on August 9 at Munson Hospital. A Celebration of Life Service was held at the First Baptist Church on August 13.
We just learned of the passing of a former member of the congregation, Janice Frandsen. She and her late spouse, Arnie, were members of our Chancel Choir. Janice was active in the UMW. She crafted many, many lovely items for our Holiday Bazaar even after they moved from Cadillac to Riverview. Janice passed away on August 16. Her funeral service was held on August 20 at the Howe-Peterson Funeral Home in Taylor. Condolences can be sent to her daughter: Jill Kovacik • 7877 East Blue Rd • Falmouth, MI
When I look at the beautiful prayer quilt you gave me, I am swept with gratitude and joy. As I finger the squares and knots, I think of the patient hands that made it and the hands that tied each knot. Whether you actually tied a knot in the quilt or sent a card or just thought of me kindly, I am lifted by your prayers. I think of each prayer you sent as a connection between you and me and God. As you pray for me, I pray that each of you also feels that connection with God’s blessing and power. Clara Handy
Thank you to all our summer yard work volunteers! Our church grounds have looked wonderful; we appreciate your time and energy!! We will have a complete list in our October Newsletter.
A special thank you to Mike Stephan for laying the new metal stripping in the Fellowship Hall between the linoleum and the carpet. It looks great and will make it easier to move the carts into the hall.
Why the Heat Index Matters
The National Weather Service created the heat index (HI) to tell how hot it really feels when the humidity is added to air temperature. If the HI is between 105 and 130 F, heat stroke is possible with continued exposure or physical activity. But, if the HI is 130 F or higher, heatstroke is highly likely with continued exposure.
So, how do you protect yourself? Reduce your risk of heat-related illness by exercising outdoors during cooler times of the day when possible. If you must exercise in the hot/humid conditions, start with short, 10-15 minute bouts of low-to moderate-intensity physical activity and gradually increase your time and intensity over 10-14 days. This will give your body time to adapt to exercising in that environment. Be sure to get plenty of rest, food and fluids before you exercise, stay hydrated during and after your workout and take frequent breaks.
The Difference Between Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
You may have diverticulosis and not even know it. In the lining of your gastrointestinal tract, small pouches or sacs can develop called diverticula-- and they generally do not cause any symptoms. But, in some cases these pouches or sacs can become inflamed or infected. This is called diverticulitis. When this occurs, you might experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, constipation and decreased appetite.
Treatment for diverticulitis depends on the severity of the symptoms. If mild, a liquid or low-fiber diet for a short time might be all you require. But with recurrent bouts of diverticulitis, you may need more advanced care and possibly even surgery.
You can prevent or slow the progression of diverticular disease by eating a diet high in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, responding to bowel urges and getting regular exercise. *both from Mayo Clinic Health Solutions
AED & CPR Training
Our Parish Nurses are sponsoring a class to recertify and/or to learn how to use the AED and the newest methods in CPR. Dawn Ewald, R.N. from Mercy Hospital will once again be here to teach those who are interested. We will hold the class at the church Tuesday, October 26, the time yet to be determined. However, it will be in the evening. Mark your calendars now!!
Something Beautiful
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. I Corinthians 12:27
The question frequently posed to pastors and lay persons is, “Why Church?” Or, more specifically, why should we gather togther as a church?
The Rev. Dr. Melanie Rosa at Lakewood United Methodist Church in Lakewood, Colorado has preached several sermons on “why we do church, anyway.” Out of her series on this topic, I agree with four areas that Homiletics journal highlights: Community, Real People, Money and Mentors.
First, so many pastors and church families get hung up on the numbers game. Both groups worry about survival and growth based on attendance. While we certainly want our churches to flourish, survival and growth - apart from greater spiritual concerns - should not be the primary goal of attendance and other involvement in congregational life. We also need to remember that everyone benefits from participation in church life. A faith community provides instruction, support, feedback and accountability. It brings order to our lives. “Attending worship is an important way of putting the events of our lives in helpful perspective” says Dr. Rosa. We need church because it satisfies our need for community.
Second, the reason many individuals give as to why we do not need the church is because of hypocrisy. The church is full of hypocrites. Exactly! The Body of Christ is made up of “real people” who are not perfect. And we need each other to help each other through our human failures towards perfection. We need to move together from judging to loving and forgiving.
Third, many people feel all the church does is ask for money. Yes, the church is always asking for money, and giving it is for our spiritual well-being. Giving out of what we have has as much to do with the first great commandment as with the second one. We give a small portion of what is God’s back to God. And it also provides us with an opportunity to give generously to others for our own good.
Lastly, people need to be part of a church for spiritual guidance and mentoring. The lay people, paid staff, including the pastor, provide for these needs. We are all ministers in God’s family, and mentor each other in many ways.
Remember, the church is the Body of Christ!
Pastor Tom
A Book Study on “Boundaries” by Cloud and Townsend begins Monday, September 13 6:00 - 8:00 p.m..
This is open to all who want to learn how to take control of their lives. Instructor is Teri Fall. The class is free however registration is required. This is a powerful and enlightening study. To register, call Teri today at 231.743.6213
Sexual Abuse Recovery Groups begin on Thursday, September 9 at our church from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
There is freedom after sexual abuse and rape. God has called us to be conquerors. Don’t allow shame to stop you. The abuse was bad but you aren’t bad! Recovery groups are available for children ages 10 - 13 • teens • men • women. There is no cost and all meetings are confidential. We are a dynamic group of survivors helping victims of abuse. To join us call today 231.775.6804 or 231.743.6213.
Bootprints in the Sand is a local project supporting our deployed service men and women from McBain, Marion, Cadillac and the surrounding area by providing some basic needed items or just a package. Some of the items being collected are: white socks, non-alcohol shampoo, Fusion razors/blades, stick (only) deodorant and playing cards. For a more comprehensive list of items needed, please take a sheet on the table in front of the military quilt, which also has a box to place your donations; thanks for your support! In addition, if you have a friend or loved one serving aboard, they would be glad to send a box to them. Details are on the yellow sheets.
Divorce Care 4 Kids
Divorce Care 4 Kids, a program for children of families experiencing divorce and separation, will begin Thursday, September 9 at First Baptist Church • 125 Stimson • Cadillac. This program runs for 13 weeks from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m..
DC4K is a biblically based, non-denominational, Christ-centered ministry tool designed to bring healing to children of divorce and separation through the use of DVD dramas, music, puppets, stories and fun games and activities. Call First Baptist at 775-5629 for more information or to register.
We will be continuing to schedule appointments for our new Church Pictorial Directory. Photography dates are September 21, 22, 23, 24 & September 27 and 28 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:20 p.m. And on Saturday, September 25 from 9:00 a.m. - 5:10 p.m..
Scheduling an appointment to have your family picture taken is quite easy. You can sign up at church or if you have access to the internet, you may schedule your appointment online. Simply follow these easy steps:
Your appointment has been made! If you have any trouble, just call the church office at 775-5362 and Diane will be happy to help.
We are wanting all members and friends of the church to be included in this new directory; please sign-up now. Pictures will be taken in our air-conditioned Wesley Room.
Some Additional Information
The on-line and at church registration ends on Sunday, September 12. During the week of September 12, if you have not yet signed-up to be photographed, Olan Mills will be calling you to schedule an appointment for your family. Or you may call them toll-free at 1.800.866.2263.
In addition, Olan Mills will be making reminder calls to all who have scheduled appointments both on-line and at the church. Each family who is photographed will receive a free 8x10 picture & a free church directory. We are hoping that all of our members and friends will be included in this new directory!
We are looking for a few good pebbles!? We have all tossed a pebble into the water & watched the ripples flow out. As our church family begins it is new ministry with Mackinaw Trail Middle School - "Mentor Mack"- we are seeking volunteers with a heart to make a difference one hour once a week in the life of a child. Over the course of the school year, that one hour sends a positive ripple through the life of an at risk child. The ripple continues on through the child's classroom, life at home and ultimately the child's future. This time spent has consistently proven to show an improvement in the child's attendance, academics, attitude and behavior-all with one hour once a week!
*
training that will fully equip you in September
2)
Ten Prayer Partners
3)
Prayer Coordinator
4) Event Coordinator
*
assist in planning two celebrations a year for the Mentor Mack
participants
. . . created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God has prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
Sunday, October 11 A Special Prelude at 6:30 p.m. featuring Hymns of the Church Seasons Hymn Sing at 7:00-ish Dr. Glenn Verbrugge - Organ • Dr. Saundra Blanchard - Piano Dr. Randy Myers - Leading Sing Child Care provided by our Youth will be available
A Offering will be received for Supplies for Dr. Glenn to take to Africa and for a Public Health Mission Trip Dr. Saundra is making to Guatemala Refreshments Will Follow Invite you friends and family to join you for a wonderful evening of music & singing |