September 2008
FBC Informer – September 2008
Table of Contents
Pastor’s Column
Announcements
Thank You
Upcoming Events
Worshipping God
- Consecration Sunday
- September Worship Services
- Choirs and Worship Band
- Schedule for Children’s Church Workers
Growing Together
- Stewardship
- Parents’ Night Out
- Youth
- Jr. High Weekend
- Wednesday Night Activities
- Wednesday Night Supper Menus
- “Reasons to Believe” Small Group Studies
Serving Others
“Reasons to Believe”
In the months of September and October, I will be embarking on a sermon series called “Reasons to Believe.” On the Sundays when I will be preaching, I will be addressing some topics of faith that non-Christians (and even some Christians) ask, such as: “Is there a God?” “What about other religions?” “What about evil and suffering?” “Is God a killjoy?” “Are we sinners at the hands of an angry God?” and “Is God seen or unseen? Known or unknown?”
My approach to these topics will be a little different from the standard “apologetics” approach, which often tries to produce evidence that “demands” a rational verdict for the truth of Christianity. This approach assumes that we’ve got the “truth,” and therefore we can “reason” unbelievers into believing in the existence of a deity, hopefully one that bears some resemblance to the God of Jesus Christ. Apologetics used in this way can sometimes become a weapon used to target those who believe differently than we do. But I am of the belief that very few people have ever been argued into a loving and trusting relationship with anyone, much less God. I also believe that reason can take us a way, even a long way toward belief, but it is less likely to lead us all the way to staking our very lives on a loving God.
I’m not saying that we should totally discard reason, or evidence, or arguments. I’m merely advocating a humbler type of apologetics, one that tries to examine and explain one’s faith as clearly as possible. I’m advocating a kind of apologetics that is an exercise in self-definition, an exercise in helping oneself gain greater clarity in what one believes (or doesn’t believe) about God. Therefore, what I shall attempt to do in the sermon series is not so much trying to convince an unbeliever as much as trying to publicly work out my beliefs about God. And I invite you to share this journey with me. To those of you who doubt the existence of God, I invite you to doubt your doubt for a few weeks. But to those of you who believe in the existence of God, what I’m going to say in the sermon series may challenge the kind of God that you think you believe in.
Throughout this series, I hope to be less of an expert or an answer man, and more of a catalyst for your thinking and discussion. That’s why Amanda is working hard to organize new small groups for you to join and to recruit leaders to facilitate your thinking and discussion. I hope that you’ll take advantage of this opportunity to delve deeper into your faith so that we may grow together not just intellectually, but even more importantly, in our daily walk as the presence of Christ in our community and in our world.
- In Christ, Michael
Announcements
Amanda Johnston Celebrates First Anniversary on Sept. 4
Congratulations to Rev. Amanda Johnston on her first anniversary as Associate Pastor of Congregational Care and Growth! We express our joy to Amanda on her achievement!
In Memoriam
Geneva Milvina Baber Dickerson
July 13, 1921-August 3, 2008
New Website Launched!
We’ve recently launched this new website. Here you will find blog entries, pictures, sermon downloads, church calendar, latest announcements and much more! Many thanks to Mike Mills, Jay Lynn and Jordan Whiley for helping Michael Cheuk redesign and launch the site.
Thank You
Dear Church Family,
It’s wonderful to have such a caring and loving Church Family. I want to thank all my friends and my Deacon, Rodney Dunning, who spent the best part of the day at the hospital with me before I was transferred to Richmond. It was so comforting to have them there and to know they cared. Thank you for all your prayers, visits, cards and phone calls. A big thanks to Michael and his family who came to Richmond. I just want to say a big thanks for the beautiful flower arrangement; it was so pretty for the entire hospital stay. My doctor says I am doing fine and need not return for a year.
May God Bless You, Ruth Patteson
* * * * * * * *
Dear Church Family,
Thank you so much for the prayers, calls, cards, flowers, visits and support for our family during this difficult time. Mom will be missed, but through our faith we know she is with the Lord! We are truly blessed to be a part of this Farmville Baptist Church community.
In Christ’s Love, George, Lorraine, Georgia and Stephen
* * * * * * * *
Just a note to express my thanks for the visits, calls, cards and prayers since my accident. It means a lot to me to have Christian friends include me in their prayers. It’s been two months and I continue to improve. I hope to be able to join you in worship soon.
Wayne Falls
* * * * * * * *
Dear Members of Farmville Baptist Church,
We are most appreciative for your love and concern shown to my mother, your fellow church member, Geneva Dickerson, during her past nine years of illness and now to us in our bereavement. In Christian love you welcomed us and mourned with us. You sent a wreath of lovely flowers and provided the food for the family meal at the church . For all this we are grateful.
Billy, Barbara, Matt & Mark Dickerson, Anna and Shane Cordell
* * * * * * * *
Thank you for remembering us in prayer and with food during our recent “ups & downs”!
Nancy & Clinton Vick
FBC Community Bulletin Board
The pictures and newspaper articles from the bulletin board near the Fellowship Hall have been taken down and archived in a photo album that will be kept in the Fellowship Hall for all to enjoy. That means the board is now open for new items, so bring your favorite photos and newspaper articles of our congregation!
Upcoming Church Events
September 1…..Labor Day – Office Closed
September 2…..Preschool Begins
September 3…..Wednesday Evening Activities Resume
September 4…..BCM Dinner
September 6…..Community-Wide “One in Christ Celebration
…………………….Concert”/Heritage Baptist Church
September 7…..Sunday School Promotion
September 12…Deadline for Jr. High Weekend registration
…………………….Parents’ Night Out
September 14…Church Council
…………………….College Cookout/Moore’s Home
September 21…Quarterly Business Meeting
…………………….Contemporary Worship Service
September 28…Consecration Sunday
September 30…Mustard Seed Network Meeting
Worshipping God
Consecration Sunday, September 28, 2008
September is our Stewardship Emphasis month, and this year, our theme is “Reasons to be Grateful.” Throughout the month, members of our church will give reasons why they are grateful for God’s blessings in their lives and in our church.
This stewardship emphasis will reach its climax on “Consecration Sunday,” September 28, when we will turn in our estimate of giving cards to help support the ministry and mission of Farmville Baptist. On that day, Dr. Daniel Bagby, Professor of Pastoral Care at the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, will be our guest speaker during worship. Immediately after worship, all members and guests are invited to a free catered luncheon held at the Gee Price Center of The Fuqua School. Let’s all attend church that Sunday and make September 28 a high attendance Sunday!
Very soon, letters will be mailed to members and regular attendees to give more details about our stewardship emphasis and Consecration Sunday. You will receive a call to remind you about Consecration Sunday and to RSVP for the luncheon. Please be in prayerful consideration in the coming weeks as you seek God’s guidance in your stewardship and participation in God’s work through the ministries of Farmville Baptist!
September Worship Services
Sept 7 – “The Power of Rest and Prayer” Mark 1:35-39
Sept 14 – “Where is God in the Midst of the Storm?” Matthew 14:22-33 (Communion)
Sept 21 – “The Prodigal Father” Luke 15:11-32
9/28 – “From Groaning to Gratitude” Exodus 17:1-7. Dr. Dan Bagby, guest preacher.
“One-in-Christ” Celebration Concert, September 6
On Saturday, September 6, there will be an outdoor, ecumenical “One-in-Christ” Celebration Concert held at Heritage Baptist Church from 6 to 7 p.m. and a free barbeque fellowship afterwards. This celebration is organized by “One-in-Christ in Prince Edward County,” a group of ministers passionate about Christian unity and reconciliation in our community. Please plan to attend! For more information, please visit http://oneinchristpec.wordpress.com.
Sunday School Promotion, September 7
On Sunday, September 7, at 11:00 a.m. worship, we will be promoting our Sunday School classes for our grade-school students. We will also be recognizing our Sunday School teachers in the worship service.
Contemporary Service, September 21
On September 21, we have a contemporary service planned for Sunday morning worship. Our worship team will be playing and leading the music and we are planning to involve many college students, youth and children in the service. If you’d like to help lead in that service, please contact Michael or Amanda.
Singers and Ringers Wanted!
Beginning in September we will resume our regular schedule for the Sanctuary Choir and Handbell Choir. The Sanctuary Choir sings regularly during the Sunday morning worship service and practices on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Handbell Choir rehearses on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:20 p.m. and plays during Sunday morning worship about once a month. Both choirs are seeking new members! If you’re interested in participating, please see Anita Lynn, 391-3751.
Worship Band Rehearsals
Starting in September, the worship/praise band will be practicing every Sunday 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. We need fill in/back up musicians and anyone who may be interested in participating in the worship band in any way. We will be working on praise and special music selections for worship services on special Sundays and contemporary services like the one we will have on September 21. Please contact John Johnston (434-607-0008) if you are interested in being a part of the band.
Sunday Schedule for Children’s Church Workers
September 7
Cribs:……………….Kerby Moore
Toddlers:…………….Lucille Holman
Children’s Worship: Beth Cheuk & Jewel Moore
September 14
Cribs:……………….Chuck & Debbie Daniel
Toddlers:……………Lucille Holman
Children’s Worship: Beth Cheuk & Patti Trent
September 21
Cribs:………………..Longwood Student
Toddlers:……………Lucille Holman
Children’s Missions: Edith Ann & Katherine Austin
September 28
Cribs:……………….Katrina & Tori Dunn
Toddlers:……………Lucille Holman
Children’s Worship: Beth Cheuk & Janett Southall
Growing Together
Stewardship Report
Budget Needs through August 24………………$181,350.68
Budget Disbursements through August 24……$154,431.77
Budget Receipts through August 24……………$139,354.93
Giving Stocks to the Church
The church has set up an account with Davenport & Company and Edward Jones to facilitate the receipt of appreciated stock and securities from members. A member of the Stewardship Committee will explain the tax advantages of giving appreciated stock to the church during the church Business Meeting on September 21. You may also contact Janett Southall (at Davenport, 392-9813) or Kerby Moore (at Edward Jones, 391-1284) for further information.
Parents’ Night Out, September 12, 6 to 9 p.m.
The Children’s Committee will be providing a Parents’ Night Out on Friday, September 12, from 6:00-9:00 p.m. We will provide dinner, a movie and games. The cost is $5 per child. To make a reservation, contact Tammy Dunning (392-4990). Reservations are due by Sept. 10 in order to ensure adequate childcare.
Youth News for September
September 7
5 p.m. Worship Band
6 p.m. No Holds Barred: “Is There A God?”
7 p.m. Youth Advisory Committee Meeting
September 10
6 p.m. PASSways Presentation
September 14
5 p.m. Worship Band
6 p.m. No Holds Barred:”What About Other Religions?”
September 21
5 p.m. Worship Band
6 p.m. No Holds Barred “What About Evil and Suffering?”
Junior High Weekend at Eagle Eyrie
Junior High Weekend will begin on Friday evening October 10 and end on Sunday afternoon October 12, at Eagle Eyrie Conference Center in Lynchburg, VA. We’ll leave the church for Eagle Eyrie on Friday at 4 p.m. and will return Sunday afternoon. Cost has yet to be determined. If you are interested in going, and would like more information, please contact Amanda at 392-5041, 607-0082, and by email. Registration deadline is September 12.
Wednesday Night Activities to Resume
Starting September 3, our Wednesday Night Activities will resume. Here is the schedule:
5:45 to 6:30 Wednesday Night Supper.
6:15 to 6:45 Children’s Choir, led by Gail Cave.
6:45 to 7:30 “Bible Blitz,” for children. If the Prayer Meeting ends before 7:30, parents can collect their children early.
6:30 to 7:15 Adult Discipleship Study in the Fellowship Hall
6:30 to 7:30 Bell Choir Rehearsal
7:15 to 7:30 Prayer Meeting in the Fellowship Hall
7:30 to 8:30 Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal
Menus for September
COST:
Adults & Children 12 and older: $5.00
Children 3 through 11: $2.00
Children 2 & under: free
Family limit: $14.00
September 3
Oven Fried Chicken w/Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, String Beans, Tossed Salad, Rolls and Jello w/Fruit. Children’s menu: Same
September 10
Baked Pork Chops, Fried Apples, Green Peas, Tossed Salad, Rolls and Banana Pudding. Children’s menu: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
September 17
Spaghetti, Corn on the Cob, Garlic Bread, Tossed Salad and Peaches. Children’s menu: Same
September 24
Potato Bar, Sour Cream, Butter, Bacon Bits, Cheese, Tossed Salad, and Watermelon. Children’s menu: Same
Please make your reservations now!
“Reasons To Believe” Small Group Bible Studies
Amanda Johnston will be organizing small group Bible studies to complement the “Reasons to Believe” sermon series. These groups will provide an opportunity to dig a little deeper and to discuss personal opinions and beliefs on the sermon topics Michael will be presenting. If you are interested in participating in a small group please contact Amanda. Child care will be arranged when necessary.
Five groups have been confirmed so far:
Sunday 6 p.m. led by Rodney Dunning
Tuesday 10 a.m. led by Peggy Cave
Tuesday 7 p.m. at Church, and 8 p.m. at the BCM led by Amanda Johnston
Wednesday 6:30 p.m. led by Michael Cheuk
Contact Amanda by phone: 392-5041, cell: 607-0082, or by e-mail if you’re interesting in joining one of these groups.
Serving Others
Adopt-a-Student Cookout, Sept. 14
Please mark your calendars for a cookout to kick off the new school year! Farmville Baptist Church LOVES college students and we want to treat you to a fun cookout on Sunday, September 14 beginning at 4:00 p.m. The location is 604 First Ave, just two streets west of Longwood. Easy walking distance! But we can arrange transportation if you need it.
The highlight will be the matching of college students (who wish to participate) with their “parents.” By the way, it’s not too late to put your name in the hat as either a student or a parent! (The “Adopt-a-Student” program is a fun outreach program designed to give college students local Christian support while living in Farmville. Suggested activities may include taking your students to lunch or having them over for a home cooked meal, sending cards on special occasions, calling to check on them, offering a ride to Sunday School, etc).
Please help us out by RSVP’ing by Sept. 12. For more information or to sign up, please contact Kerby Moore by phone 392-6727 or by email: kerbymoore1 [at] embarqmail.com.
Opportunities to Serve Others
Meals on Wheels continues to need drivers – substitute and permanent. Several of our church members answered the call to serve this summer. The Copeland and Landrum families have served as substitute drivers. If you are interested in driving, contact the MoW coordinator (392-8797). They’ll call or send an email when they need a driver. If you are available, you’ll go to the back of the hospital at 10:30 a.m. on the day requested. According to Kathryn Copeland, it takes about an hour to deliver the meals.
A Habitat for Humanity ReStore is coming to Main Street!! ReStores are building supply/home interior stores that accept and resell quality new and used home furnishings and building materials. They generate funds to support Habitat’s building programs, while reducing the amount of used materials that are headed for overflowing landfills! Habitat is looking for a few more people to join their ReStore Committee and volunteers to help out in the store. If you would like more information, contact Pam Gill at 392-6627.
If you have information on other community service needs, please contact Amanda Johnston (392-5041) or Patti Trent (trentpf [at] @longwood.edu).