scipio at antwerp

Christmas Eve by Candelight 2011

2012-01-03T14:25:00.000-05:00

...and so much more!

Thanks, Pam, for the pictures,

Judy for the planning, and all who participated.

What a special night.

Sunday Highlights - December 18th

2011-12-18T14:44:00.000-05:00

9:00 Hour - Cookie Exchange

and Pictionary with Christmas Song Titles

Kids' Program - by and for our kids!

It was a great 10:00 hour!

Kids did their parts REALLY well.

(Click on any photo above to enlarge)

Weekend Highlights

2011-12-05T07:58:00.001-05:00

Saturday's ladies' brunch...

followed by some serious decorating...

by young and old...

Sunday morning...

Jim, Carol, and Jill lit the second ADVENT candle.

In the evening, Home Connection groups partied...

celebrating Jesus and enjoying each others' company.

Incidentally, photos could NEVER have begun to capture the

fun in our All-Church Sunday School hour!

Dave and Christine led us in a bunch of Christmas-themed games...

Next Week? Carol Sing at 9:00!

Join us.

Sunday Highlights

2011-11-27T14:34:00.001-05:00

Pre-Sunday school activity!

Even the adults got in on the act--

Most traced shapes on colorful (old) Christmas cards

and cut them out to be used in decorating the sanctuary for next week.

Others, showing their creative abilities, cut "free form"!

Impressive, Dywane!

Sunday Highlight

2011-11-16T06:46:00.001-05:00

Our collection of shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child exceeded the goal!

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

In the evening, a bit of fun preceded the viewing of an important video - "180" -

much food for thought and discussion for our H20 kids!

Sunday Highlight

2011-11-05T18:34:00.001-04:00

SPIRITUAL GIFT CHALLENGE: To explore your spiritual gift go to THIS LINK and click on the spiritual gifts assessment on the page. It will not take long and will give you a basic idea of your spiritual gift. Once you have completed it, email or facebook Pastor Gary and let him know what your gift is.

KIDS' TALK

Pam talked about the "Tater Family" - comparing some interesting

Potato Heads to our church family.

She had some great helpers!

We all want to be like "Sweet" Po Tater!

We're Not Always Serious!

2011-10-24T10:42:00.000-04:00

Cutting up at the Gould "Home Connection"...

In fairness, it must be explained that these pumpkins were "carved" while being held

behind our backs. Some of us surprised ourselves...

Bob, our host and voted "Creator of the Most Traditional-Style Jack-o'-lantern".

Sunday Highlight

2011-09-26T09:19:00.002-04:00

Autumn decorations greeted us Sunday.

Thanks to Carole and Joyce for this special contribution

to our day and future gatherings throughout

this beautiful season.

Thanks to the Four Readers

(Dan, Dave, Jeff and Don)

who effectively read

the Parable of the Talents

from Matthew 25:14-30.

Outdoor Service at Camp Clevinger

2011-09-11T14:59:00.000-04:00

Thanks, Dwyane & Carole!

Camp Clevinger Rocks!

Our incredible host & hostess....

Sunday Highlight - September 4th

2011-09-04T15:11:00.001-04:00

Don't leave without checking our our new "Person of the Week" in the tab above!

Ms. Christine's Sunday School Class!

Don't FORGET!

OUTDOOR WORSHIP AND PICNIC NEXT WEEK!

10:00 A.M.

CLEVINGER'S.

BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS!

August 28

2011-08-28T19:13:00.001-04:00

August 28th
Kids' Talk - Tonya with special assistance from
Boston and Chet
Sermon: Remember Lot's Wife (Luke 17:32)
Celebration of the Lord's Supper
Special flowers from Ms. Pam's Sunday school garden.
Message on our church sign: "Eternity is a long time to be wrong."

August 21

2011-08-21T20:27:00.000-04:00

Jeff, behind the blue coffee holder, led the adult Sunday School class

in a discussion of "Light and Joy"

An extra number of people joined in this week...

Some serious study going on here!
And there were a couple MORE tables full besides these.

Next Sunday: Prayer! Don't miss it!

Next Sunday:   Celebration of Communion
                      Short sermon
                      No Kids' Connection, but...
                        Kids' Talk during the Worship Celebration

More Hugs - Antwerp Days

2011-08-13T19:29:00.004-04:00

Joyce and Donna, Rebecca and Sadie, Jen, Carole and Klayre

took turns handing out candy (and REAL) hugs.

Steve helped with set up and both he and Don loaned their pickups

for setting up and taking down the booth.

Free Hugs

2011-08-06T14:59:00.006-04:00

Thanks to all who contributed Hershey Hugs, walked, passed out hugs,

rode the float, and got wet!

This Hug's For You!

2011-08-05T08:45:00.000-04:00

Sharing the facts and heart of our church

with our Harlan community tomorrow morning...

and in a couple of weeks in Antwerp.

It Keeps Getting Better at Big Heart Farm

2011-06-23T12:33:00.001-04:00

Another Great Day at Big Heart Farm!

2011-06-23T06:17:00.003-04:00

VBS Off to a Good Start

2011-06-22T08:15:00.001-04:00

Christine, our director, got us going on Monday. We had twenty students for our first day.

Family & Friends Celebrate with Dan and Stephanie

2011-05-22T17:55:00.000-04:00

For Your Baptism

You’re taking this step of faith
In obedience to the Lord
To be baptized in His precious name
And heed the Master’s call
To rise up with faith in God
And go where He may lead
To share God’s love to everyone
And touch them in their need
May God pour out His blessings
Upon your life today
So you may walk in His abundance
As you commit to Him your way
Keep on trusting in the Lord
No matter what you face
And keep your eyes on Jesus Christ
And live in His sweet grace.
© By M.S.Lowndes

Palm Sunday Breakfast and Send Off

2011-04-17T16:53:00.002-04:00

Our Palm Sunday carry-in breakfast served to honor and send off Ed & Kaylene to their new church home.

Some waited...

while the Service Committee put finishing touches on the food table.

Our guests of honor were the first to go through the food line.

After eating, Judy gave a fine and fitting "Holy Kick" to wish Ed & Kaylene Godspeed

as they leave us for their new church home.

This morning's Worship Leaders. Jeremy was to Brandon's left on the drums.

Our fancy camera didn't have wide enough lens to include him!

2011 Chili Supper

2011-03-06T06:17:00.001-05:00

A total of 13 chilies along with "chili condiments" (cornbread, onion, cheese, sour cream, etc.) were the fare of the evening! Dana and Carol did a great job decorating and planning for the event. Door prizes were awarded and Taco Chili was voted as the favorite.

Registering for door prizes...

Rain, snow, sleet and hail did NOT keep chili fanatics from showing up!

Maybe the most unique (and certainly a yummy recipe) was this "Better-than-it-Looks" entry!

Fun and frolic preceded the actual tasting...

Eventually, we DID sit down to eat. Tables were filled with serious chili-eaters--camera person included!

Bringing Christmas to a Neighborhood Child

2010-12-20T11:52:00.000-05:00

Another way of expressing that South Scipio Church IS

"the church on the corner that cares"...

Operation Christmas Child

2010-11-08T07:46:00.000-05:00

The Dunderman Home Connection and H2O met to assemble shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child (and watch the defeat of the Indianapolis Colts).

Thanks to Shelly for the great pictures!

Man Shower - Best Wishes, Chad!

2010-10-02T09:31:00.000-04:00

The men of South Scipio congregated at Harlan Cafe Saturday morning to celebrate the upcoming birth of Chad's first son. A good breakfast and fellowship was enjoyed by all!

Shed-Building

2010-09-24T09:28:00.000-04:00

So many more men than pictured have been working on this project!

South Scipio Plays, Too!

2010-09-19T16:27:00.002-04:00

Great turnout at The Alley (Hicksville)!

Be sure to click on "Home" at the top and scroll down past this bottom picture to see South Scipio WORK!

South Scipio Works!

2010-09-14T08:52:00.007-04:00

Bright and early a great crew arrived to scrape eaves and paint. This is the first of the autumn community work projects planned. Young and old participated this morning for the glory of God and service to our friends and neighbors.

Praising the Son in the Sun

2010-08-15T14:04:00.006-04:00

Singing

Our People

More People

Campers

Games

Food

Conversation

and a nap

Awana Goes to Harlan Days

2010-08-08T06:30:00.002-04:00

Click on any of these pictures to enlarge! You'll see lots of familiar faces!

Awana Float in the Harlan Day Parade! Last week, it was at Woodburn Days. Thanks to Westwood Fellowship for teaming with us to make our Awana Clubs "visible" in our communities!

God's Promise to Joshua and Us

2010-07-21T08:02:00.000-04:00

The adult Bible class is learning verses that give us promises for hard time. This past week we learned of the encouragement God gave to Joshua and realized we also do not need to be terrified or discouraged.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

VBS Day Three

2010-06-23T17:55:00.002-04:00

DAY 2 PHOTOS - See "Older Post"

VBS Day Two

2010-06-23T17:42:00.002-04:00

VBS Day One

2010-06-23T17:31:00.003-04:00

Baby Dedication

2010-06-15T07:34:00.000-04:00

Asher Isaac dedicated to the Lord by loving parents. Committed to teaching and instructing Asher in the ways of the Lord Jesus Christ. Exciting!

Congratulations, girls!

2010-05-22T20:32:00.002-04:00

Jess and Kirsten graduate from Antwerp High School.

May Work Day

2010-05-17T09:21:00.000-04:00

The photograph apologizes for the quality of the above photo and for all the other indoor shots that didn't turn out well! So much work was accomplished by so many of ALL ages. The South Scipio Church property is much improved thanks to all of you

Mother's Day Celebration

2010-05-11T14:12:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all the teens for their cooperation in wish their mothers a Happy Mother's Day this past Sunday. In addition to the teens participation we sang some of the mothers favorite songs. We noted from God's word that like mothers who are Active, Assuring, All-knowing and Apleny people, so is God. God is all those things for you and me that mother's are for their children only God does it perfectly. We are privileged to be a child of God.

Jesus Time

2010-05-04T05:42:00.002-04:00

Devotions Aren't Magic is a link that will challenge and encourage us in our daily walk with Jesus Christ. Jon Bloom talks about the benefits of a Jesus time when we do not always feel the significance. Our Bible reading and prayer are our soul-food.

Soles4Souls

2010-04-25T16:36:00.003-04:00

Bring gently used shoes to contribute to the Haitian people through Soles4Souls. Any shoes brought to the church by this Sunday or no later than May 5 will be taken to the Old Church Shoppes in Leo to join with others from the area to help the Haitian people. To find out more about the organization go to this link.

April Showers

2010-04-18T07:44:00.003-04:00

Guests checked in....

...enjoyed games and watched Stephanie open gifts for the new baby and the bookshelf fill up with colorful and interesting children's books...

...and ate the delicious cake and other refreshments.

Stephanie even got a little practice holding Anna Elizabeth!
God bless our newborns and "yet-to-be-borns".

Awana Awards - 2010

2010-04-01T06:54:00.001-04:00

Dads and moms, grandparents, relatives and friends filled our auditorium to celebrate the achievement of the Awana students on Wednesday evening, March 31. Commander Shelly rolled out the RED CARPET (see in the very first picture) to congratulate the leaders and children for their diligence in study. Refreshments followed the special night of recognition.

Baptisms

2010-03-14T16:03:00.008-04:00

These four were baptized this morning. Now, "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18

Special Sunday, The Bishop, Baptism

2010-03-12T09:39:00.007-05:00

Bishop Phil Whipple and his wife, Sandy, plan to attend our church this Sunday March 14. Bishop Whipple assumed his responsibility this past August 15 after being elected to the position by the United Brethren in Christ U.S. Conference last summer.

Three people are planning to be baptized this Sunday, March 14. It is exciting to have people publicly proclaim Jesus Christ as his or her Savior. They will talk about what God has done and is doing in them individually.

First Key to Sustaining Faith

2010-02-22T08:41:00.003-05:00

How do you sustain faith during prolonged sickness, continued temptation or seemingly unending relational struggles?

1. Feed on living bread

When you come to the end of yet another day that has drained your physical and emotional and spiritual strength, sit down and read the Word of God. If you can’t stay awake, stand up and read it aloud.
“But Jack, that’s the very time I don’t feel like reading the Bible. And besides, I never remember what I read.” Dear one, you’re not training for a Bible quiz—you’re eating. I don’t remember what I ate last Thursday, but it did my body good. I may not always remember brilliant flashes of insight which light up the dark recesses of my spirit, but my spirit is being fed by the Holy Spirit—who is both the Ever-present Comforter, and the Source of the Word of God (see John 16:13). Jack Hayford, The Heart of Praise, p. 189 and beyond

Am I Devoted

2010-02-16T18:58:00.002-05:00

“And they devoted themselves . . . .” Acts 2:42

"When the early believers converted to Christ, it never occurred to them to fit him into the margins of their busy lives. They redefined themselves around a new, immovable center. He was not an optional weekend activity, along with the kids’ soccer practices. They put him and his church and his cause first in their hearts, first in their schedules, first in their budgets, first in their reputations, first in their very lives. They devoted themselves.

Unmistakable evidence that the Holy Spirit was being poured out." Dr. Ray Ortland

Haiti Kit

2010-02-15T16:01:00.005-05:00

This is the kit our church gathered in response to the devastation of the earthquake in Haiti. We are sending it via the Mennonite Central Committee which is sending 20,000 relief kits, 10,000 heavy comforters and 10,000 flat sheets. You can find specifics of each kit and specifications for comforters and sheets by clicking HERE. Sheets will be used as bedding and mosquito netting. The kits consist of practical hygienic items.

Jesus said, "I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25: 34-40).

Prayer

2010-02-04T18:42:00.004-05:00

Several prayer requests Ami, back & hip pain; Mary, strength and recuperation from surgery; Emanuel strength to come home from hospital.

Praise the Lord for enough funds to meet our expenses in January though we were below budget giving. God supplies our need.

Someone Else Memorial

2010-02-01T09:19:00.003-05:00

Our church was saddened this week to learn of the death of one of its most valued members,Someone Else.

Someone's passing creates a vacancy that will be difficult to fill. Else has been with us for many years and for every one of those years, someone did far more than a normal person's share of the work. Whenever there was a job to do, a class to teach, or a meeting to attend, one name was on everyone's list, "Let Someone Else do it." Whenever leadership was mentioned, this wonderful person was looked to for inspiration as well as results; "Someone Else can work with that group."

It was common knowledge that Someone Else was among the most liberal givers in our church. Whenever there was a financial need, everyone just assumed Someone Else would make up the difference.

Someone Else was a wonderful person; sometimes appearing superhuman. Were the truth known, everybody expected too much of Someone Else. Now Someone Else is gone! We wonder what we are going to do.

Someone Else left a wonderful example to follow, but who is going to follow it? Who is going to do the things Someone Else did?

When you are asked to help this year, remember -- we can't depend on Someone Else anymore.

2010-01-04T19:34:00.003-05:00

We Are Fearfully and Wonderfully Made!

Electrical cardioversion is a procedure whereby a synchronized (perfectly timed) electrical shock is delivered through the chest wall to the heart through special electrodes or paddles that are applied to the skin of the chest and back The goal of the cardioversion is to disrupt the abnormal electrical circuit(s) in the heart and to restore a normal heart beat. The shock causes all the heart cells to contract simultaneously, thereby interrupting and terminating the abnormal electrical rhythm (typically fibrillation of the atria) without damaging the heart. This split second interruption of the abnormal beat allows the heart's electrical system to regain control and restore a normal heartbeat.

This procedure will be performed in a special procedure room with a cardiologist, a nurse and/or an anesthesiologist present to monitor breathing, blood pressure and heart rhythm. Special cardioversion pads are placed on the chest and back (or alternatively, both pads can be placed on the front of the chest). The pads are connected to an external defibrillator by a cable. The defibrillator allows the medical team to continuously monitor heart rhythm and to deliver the electrical shock to restore the heart's rhythm back to normal.

My husband will undergo this procedure this Wednesday morning to correct atrial fibrillation. If you think of us, will you pray for protection and a long-term correction/healing? There is a 90% success rate (with as many as 50% of people returning to irregular heartbeat within a year).

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well (Psalm 139:13-14).

Rebecca posted this on her blog this morning. Thought it was a good explanation to pass along to you. Thank you in advance for your prayers.

Ten Questions to Ask at the Start of the New Year

2010-01-04T08:12:00.002-05:00

Once, when the people of God had become careless in their relationship with Him, the Lord rebuked them through the prophet Haggai. “Consider your ways!” (Haggai 1:5) he declared, urging them to reflect on some of the things happening to them, and to evaluate their slipshod spirituality in light of what God had told them.
Even those most faithful to God occasionally need to pause and think about the direction of their lives. It’s so easy to bump along from one busy week to another without ever stopping to ponder where we’re going and where we should be going.
The beginning of a new year is an ideal time to stop, look up, and get our bearings. To that end, here are some questions to ask prayerfully in the presence of God.
1. What’s one thing you could do this year to increase your enjoyment of God?
2. What’s the most humanly impossible thing you will ask God to do this year?
3. What’s the single most important thing you could do to improve the quality of your family life this year?
4. In which spiritual discipline do you most want to make progress this year, and what will you do about it?
5. What is the single biggest time-waster in your life, and what will you do about it this year?
6. What is the most helpful new way you could strengthen your church?
7. For whose salvation will you pray most fervently this year?
8. What’s the most important way you will, by God’s grace, try to make this year different from last year?
9. What one thing could you do to improve your prayer life this year?
10. What single thing that you plan to do this year will matter most in ten years? In eternity?

Donald Whitney, graciously shared these on his web site that could be shared by those who would use them. It is a good set of questions to which each of us should give prayerful thought. Let us know what you think?

Wisdom

2009-12-22T06:43:00.002-05:00

"Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd prefer to talk." Doug Larson

What About Santa?

2009-12-16T06:05:00.003-05:00

Thinking About Santa

Click on Thinking About Santa and see a thought provoking article about Santa. Gives us things to consider. See what you think?

Nativity Open House

2009-12-03T09:40:00.003-05:00

Come and take a look! Saturday evening from 5-7:30 PM nativity sets of all kinds are on display at South Scipio Church. Refreshments will be served.

A Taste of Christmas

2009-11-29T18:10:00.004-05:00

Liz R. has done a beautiful job of decorating the sanctuary for the Christmas season! The tree looks even better in person.

Nativities are scattered throughout the Fellowship Hall. There is an open house on Saturday night December 5 from 5-7:30 PM to see these Nativities and enjoy refreshments.

First Sunday of Advent

2009-11-29T17:50:00.002-05:00

The Hickok Family did a reading and lit the first candle of Advent.

Sacrificial Giving

2009-11-17T14:04:00.005-05:00

This past Sunday our congregation gave sacrificially. Our financial secretary indicated that the offering included regular offerings, some gifts and some sacrificial giving on the part of our people. It was double our weekly need to meet budget. Praise God! The Apostle Paul said, "He who sows sparingly will reap sparingly. He who sows generously will reap generously." 2 Corinthians 9:6

I saw our own congregation live out 2 Corinthians 8:3 "For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford but far more. And they did it of their own free will."

Joanne Sauder Speaks of Nativities

2009-11-16T18:50:00.003-05:00

Joanne Sauder of Grabill, recently returned from a Nativity Convention is Salt Lake City. She will be speaking Sunday, November 29 at the 9:00 AM Sunday school hour at South Scipio. She will bring some of her collection.

Free, Fun and Festive Christmas Activities

2009-11-14T15:06:00.001-05:00

THE PUBLIC is invited to tour a display of Nativity Sets belonging to families of South Scipio Church on Saturday evening, December 5, from 5:00-7:30. The church is located at the corner of Scipio and Antwerp Roads east of Harlan. Light refreshments will be served.

This is just one of many events scheduled for the 2009 Advent Season. In addition to thoughtful Advent worship services and the Children’s Christmas Program at 10:00 a.m. on December 6, the church has planned special 9:00 activities during the Sunday school hour.

November 29th will feature a display of nativity sets belonging to the families of the congregation. A brief presentation will include a little history and some unique features of various nativity sets.

On December 6, symbols and traditions of Christmas will be explained. December 13th will feature a cookie exchange and fellowship hour. On December 20th, there will be an intergenerational old-fashioned Carol Sing. Children’s classes will meet during all of these sessions except for the Carol Sing when all ages will meet together.

The traditional less-than-an-hour Christmas Eve candlelight service will begin at 6:30 p.m. All activities are free and everyone is welcome. Questions? Call 438-2519 for further information.

Operation Christmas Child

2009-11-13T10:29:00.003-05:00

Shoeboxes filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items and other miscellaneous gifts are sent to needy boys and girls around the world through Samaritans Purse. In addition to the gifts, every box offers an opportunity to share the Good News of the Savior to a hurting child. Bring boxes on November 15.

Enough is Best!

2009-11-02T08:03:00.003-05:00

Yesterday in the message I spoke of five principles of moderation in lifestyle taken from the Bigger Barns parable in Luke 12.
Moderation in heart attitudes and lifestyle choices...
Will ENHANCE the quality of your life.
Will keep the channels of communication and counsel open.
Produces benefits for and builds relationships with others.
Helps us live with a good balance of personal responsibility and a humble dependence on God.
Reflects a Kingdom mentality.

We are called to be people of moderation in our lifestyles.

Awana Costume Night

2009-10-29T07:17:00.002-04:00

Fall Fun Fest Saturday Night

2009-10-23T19:12:00.003-04:00

The all-church Fall Fun Fest is Saturday night at the home of Dwyane and Carole. Bundle up and come along. The hots dogs and chili will be waiting from 6:30 - 8:30 pm. The bond fire will be glowing so you can stay warm around the fire. See you there.

Pastor Wayne, Celebrates 80th Birthday Wednesday

2009-10-18T13:47:00.003-04:00

Rebecca and I are back in the area, after enjoying a few relaxing days in southern Michigan and a few more days in northern Indiana. Though the weather was not great the time was beautiful. Gary will be in the office Monday.

We just discovered that Wayne G. is celebrating his 80th birthday on October 21. Thought many people would want to know, so you could send a card an email or some greeting.

Jeremy Curry to Speak

2009-10-15T12:17:00.003-04:00

Jeremy Curry will be speaking at South Scipio this Sunday at 10:00 a.m. He will address ways to to deal with evil. The Lord has been laying this on his heart for a while. Come and worship the Lord together.

Congratulations, Ed & Kaylene!

2009-10-06T19:18:00.004-04:00

Ed and Kaylene were presented Huntington University's Distinguished Alumni Citation at the Alumni Banquet Saturday, October 3rd. The citation "honors outstanding service over a period of time." In recognizing Ed and Kaylene, it was noted that "they operate as a team in life, work and service." We thank God for their teamwork in leading our congregation in musical worship.

Raising a Modern Day Joseph

2009-10-06T10:49:00.007-04:00

Imagine this scenario for a typical teenager in your church: He's separated from his family and sent to live in a hedonistic, no-holds-barred culture. He's stripped of his spiritual support, left alone, and treated unfairly. Then, at his most vulnerable point, his ego is stoked with power and success. Throughout this rollercoaster ride, would he continue to serve God?This very test was given to the Old Testament Joseph, whose faith remained rock solid. Yet it seems that our youth are ill-equipped to face the moral vacuum in today's culture. Worse, research shows that when young people leave home, many also leave the church. So how can we forge sons and daughters of faith and fortitude?The vital answers are found in the story of Joseph. Drawing from this timeless narrative, author Larry Fowler offers a biblical plan for building teens who will love and serve Jesus Christ. Biblically based and up-to-the-minute relevant,Raising a Modern-Day Joseph is an essential guide to raising a generation that can pass life's tests with flying colors.

Seven Awana leaders and I heard Mr. Fowler speak at an Awana Conference last Saturday in Fort Wayne. We were challenged to read the book and encourage families to raise modern day Josephs.

Our Rock

2009-10-05T21:09:00.004-04:00

"He is our Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." Deut. 32:4

When unexpected challenges and uncertainties show up we look to a place for strength and peace. We have a Rock in our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a great comfort to have a Savior who knows us and cares for us, who is upright and just.

2009-10-04T21:03:00.005-04:00

Monica, Bob, Cindy and Rebecca enjoyed preparing the vegetable soup for our Sunday night meeting of the Gould Home Connection. The soup was delicious.

Muslim Prayer Day Feedback

2009-10-01T20:23:00.007-04:00

Since the request to pray for this day last Friday, I wanted to give you an update on the results. If you want more information go to the link.
http://muddlingtowardmaturity.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/09/islam-on-capitol-hill-event-attracts-far-less-than-expected.html

Effective Prayer

2009-09-30T06:53:00.001-04:00

"Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience."

2009-09-28T09:25:00.004-04:00

This walk bridge connects the IPFW campus to the Holiday Inn along Coliseum Boulevard. Rebecca and I were curious to see it, so we took the walk Sunday afternoon. It was a pleasant surprise and a nice walk. This bridge spans the St. Joe River and is a beautiful sight.
Bridges connect us to places we may not get any other way. Jesus is the bridge to Eternal Life. Jesus said "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through me." Our only way to the Father is Jesus.

Prayer for our Nation

2009-09-25T08:48:00.003-04:00

The desire for power and control by forces of evil are taking place right before our eyes. Please be in prayer today.

Convergence

It is critical that the church in America understands the times and what needs to be done now. The natural things speak of the invisible. Natural happenings on the earth are revealing something that is going on in the spiritual realm. There is a great spiritual conflict with a rising tide of Islamic boldness being manifested. Several happenings are converging this week. First of all, our President has recently proclaimed, honored, encouraged the Muslim holy days of prayer and fasting called Ramadan. He was very silent on the National Day of Prayer but very vocal on the support of Ramadan. Interestingly at the same time a major Christian leader of the Emergent Church called for forty days of fasting and prayer in the same Ramadan period with the goal that the church will better understand our Muslim friends. We are all for understanding but we must have spiritual discernment as to the spiritual dark powers that are being invoked into our nation.

Cause for Concern

At the same time, on the 25th of September, Muslims are calling for a Muslim Day of Prayer in Washington DC (http://www.islamoncapitolhill.com/). They are calling for 50,000 Muslims to gather and pray on the DC Mall. This is the exact word of one of the Sheikhs who is leading this historic gathering, “Muslims should march on the White House. We are going to the White House so that Islam will be victorious, Allah willing, and the White House will become into a Muslim house.” These are not empty words. They speak of a dark spiritual intent and a coming day of great trouble to America.

A Divine Moment

Now these events are enough to awaken us to this significant throbbing moment, but when they all converge it becomes a massive spiritual alarm that must be responded to by the praying Church. This convergence, I believe, is urgently summoning us in the midst of the rising tide of Islamic influence in America to recognize that our God is above every god and that if we return to Him with all of our hearts and call upon Him with fasting and prayer then God could use what the enemy meant for evil to bring about a great day of salvation for Muslims in America.

Here is the Vision

First of all, we cannot be passive as a Church to let these kinds of developments go on without being challenged in the spirit. Our fight is not against Muslims, it is against principalities, powers, and forces of darkness. We are calling the Church of America at the end of Ramadan, from September 21st through 25th, to five days of concerted prayer. On Friday, September 25th, the Muslim Day of Prayer, we are calling the Church of America to fast and pray that Muslims would be moved by the Holy Spirit, convicted by the testimony of Christ, and even be visited by Jesus in dreams. We must pray that God would restrain the spiritual powers behind Islam and grant us the great awakening that we desperately need for America.

Choose the Life

2009-09-16T15:51:00.001-04:00

New study "Choose the Life" by Bill Hull is class being led by Jeff. The book will challenge and stretch us to become more Christlike in our words and actions. This discussion oriented study is at 9:00 am Sunday morning. Give it a try!

Exciting Sunday!

2009-09-13T20:56:00.007-04:00

Six people "advertized" their faith in Jesus today as they were baptized. Sorry we didn't get Elsie's picture.

Baptism

2009-09-10T10:55:00.004-04:00

Baptism is a significant event in the life of a believer. This response of obedience and public demonstration of one's commitment to Jesus Christ encourages the body of Christ and can be a source of inspiration and strength to the believer being baptized.

Four adult and two young ladies are going to be baptized on Sunday. Plan to be here if at all possible.

Do we say "NO" to Self?

2009-09-05T09:52:00.000-04:00

In this day of God's power

"Where are the young men and women of this generation who will hold their lives cheap and be faithful even unto death? Where are those who will lose their lives for Christ's sake -- flinging them away for love of him? Where are those who will live dangerously and be reckless in his service? Where are his lovers -- those who love him and the souls of men more than their own reputations or comfort or very life?

Where are the men who say 'no' to self, who take up Christ's cross to bear it after him, who are willing to be nailed to it in college or office, home or mission field, who are willing, if need be, to bleed, to suffer and to die on it?

Where are the adventurers, the explorers, the buccaneers for God, who count one human soul of far greater value than the rise or fall of an empire? Where are the men who are willing to pay the price of vision?

Where are the men of prayer?

Where are God's men in this day of God's power?"

Howard Guinness, Sacrifice, pages 59-60.

H20 Youth Outing to Paige Crossing

2009-09-03T07:02:00.000-04:00

A Call to Anguish

2009-08-30T20:56:00.000-04:00

Priority?

2009-08-28T11:55:00.000-04:00

"No man ever said, at the end of his days, 'I have read my Bible too much, I have thought of God too much, I have prayed too much, I have been too careful with my soul.'" ~ J.C. Ryle

Reach Out to Someone

2009-08-26T09:37:00.000-04:00

"For the sake of the truth, for the sake of the gospel, and for our calling in this time in history,it is imperative that we love the Lord our God with all our hearts and all our minds and equip our people to do so. This fierce and vast battle does not need to intimidate us. Not everybody can argue at a level to reach a Bertrand Russell, but God does put people into our paths who are at our level. Let’s thank God that the church has people at different levels who can take on everyone. We need to know that the gospel is simple enough to reach a little child and sophisticated enough to reach the finest minds, such as those of Augustine and Paul and others throughout history." ~ Ravi Zacharias

A New Year for Awana!

2009-08-22T10:09:00.002-04:00

Awana kicks off a new year this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. This ministry includes fun, games, singing, teams, Scripture memory and a lesson from the Bible. Age 4-grade 6 are invited.
Cubbies age 4 & 5; Sparks K-2nd grade; T & T 3-6 grades

Godliness

2009-08-19T09:26:00.000-04:00

"Godliness is no optional spiritual luxury for a few quaint Christians of a bygone era or for some group of super-saints today. It is both the privilege and duty of every Christian to pursue godliness, to train himself to be godly, to study diligently the practice of godliness. We don't need any special talent or equipment. God has given to each one of us 'everything we need for life and godliness'(2 Peter1:3). The most ordinary Christian has all that he needs, and the most talented Christian must use those same means in the practice of godliness." - The Practice of Godliness by Jerry Bridges

Home Connection

2009-08-17T09:51:00.000-04:00

Gould Home Connection met at the lake on Saturday. It was a great time with all the Home Connection people present.

Home connections are small groups that encourage and strengthen relationships and spiritual growth. I enjoyed my involvement in home connections as I have become a better friend with people I knew only as acquaintances before. It has strengthened my prayer life and my understanding of other people. I highly recommend involvement. Pastor Gary

Sanctification

2009-08-12T06:32:00.000-04:00

"Sanctification starts with the pastor. His responsibility is to feed and protect his flock. As a pastor, I'm not called to be a stand-up comedian, a self-help guru, or a sex therapist. My job is to teach the Bible, thoroughly and accurately. I'm responsible to encourage and catalyze the spiritual growth of God's people. Anything else is a distraction. Too many pastors today neglect the priority of sanctification for their congregations.

Instead of helping God's people feast on the riches of His Word, they throw their efforts into attracting nonbelievers. Shrouding their teaching in pop-culture references and comedy routines designed to appeal to unbelievers, they withhold the only true source of spiritual nourishment from the Christians there who are hungry. Often the people in the pews don't even realize what they're missing, content instead to be entertained into spiritual starvation.

It's my prayer that you're in a church that does stress the importance of holiness - where your sanctification is encouraged and stimulated, and where you're fed throughout the week on the riches of God's Word. If you are, let me urge you to thank your pastor and church leaders for being faithful to their calling and in the example they set for your congregation. Let them know you're thankful for their commitment to God's Word, and that you're praying for the Lord to bless and sustain them." - John MacArthur

What do You Value?

2009-08-11T15:27:00.000-04:00

After watching a movie entitled "Miss Potter" we heard Renee Zellweger said of Beautrix Potter, "You could see what she valued by the choices she made." As we examine our own lives that is true of us. People can see what we value, what we consider important and what is priority, by the choices we make. That is particularly true of our children and our grandchildren. To quote radio preacher Steve Brown "Now you think about that!"

Joy in Life and Death

2009-08-10T07:21:00.001-04:00

When Michelangelo, already well along in years, was discussing life with an old friend, the latter commented, "Yes, after such a good life, it is hard to look death in the eye."

"Not at all!" contradicted Michelangelo. "Since life was such a pleasure, death coming from the same great source cannot displease us." (Temmlar Werke)

Outdoor Service & Church Picnic

2009-08-07T09:07:00.002-04:00

Sunday, August 16 we will have an outdoor service in front of the church and will follow that with a picnic carry-in lunch. Service committee will provide a sliced ham, bun, drinks and table service. Come join us, bring a salad or dessert to share and enjoy the conversations around the table.

Christ is Our Anchor

2009-08-05T06:05:00.000-04:00

"There is no pit so deep that Christ love is not deeper still." Corrie Ten Boon

Harlan Days Parade

2009-08-02T16:44:00.000-04:00

Awana Float

Tana & Samuel Send Off

2009-07-29T09:48:00.000-04:00

Sunday morning we enjoyed a carry-in breakfast to send off Tana and Samuel as they make a move to the state of Washington. We had a very nice time and took several pictures of people to give to Tana as a remembrance of South Scipio.

Scripture Memory

2009-07-21T10:17:00.000-04:00

During our summer Sunday school adults have been learning verses. This past Sunday eight turned in memorized verses, Monica, Rick, Don, Shelly, Judy, Jeff, Rebecca and Gary. Both Old and New Testament verses were learned. Prov. 3:5-6, Phil. 2:3, Phil. 4:4-7, Prov. 31:11, I John 4;4, Phil. 1:6, Jer. 33:2-3, & 2 Thess. 2:16-17. Good job!

VBS Thank you!

2009-07-20T14:05:00.000-04:00

These pictures were received along from the following letter from Ocleva Williams. (Click on collage or letter to enlarge)

Carry-In Breakfast

2009-07-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

Sunday, July 26 at 9:00 am there is a carry-in breakfast and a card shower for Tana. Bring your favorite breakfast food to share and enjoy visiting with others from the church you don't get to see all the time.

A Quiet Time

2009-07-15T17:31:00.001-04:00

Quiet Time

The Importance of Quiet Time
A "Quiet Time" is a time each day that you get alone with God to read His Word, pray, and seek the Lord. Some people call it "Devotions."

Many Christians can testify that a daily quiet time is the most important factor in developing a relationship with the Lord and living victoriously. Why is it so important? 2 Chronicles 12:14 tells us that King Rehoboam "did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord." Seeking the Lord on a daily basis can prevent us from doing evil. --Kent Crockett

Food for Thought!

2009-07-13T18:13:00.001-04:00

Second Saturday?

If we would stop treating Sunday as a second Saturday, one more day to run to Home Depot, one more day for the kids' soccer games, if we would rediscover Sunday as The Lord's Day, focusing on him for one day each week, what would be the immediate impact between today and one year from today?

By one year from today, we will have spent 52 whole days given over to Jesus. Seven and a half weeks of paid vacation with Jesus.

He's a good King. Maybe we should put him first in our weekly schedules. Dr. Ray Ortlund Jr.

Parsonage Sale Complete

2009-07-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

Don signed some of the official closing papers on Thursday to compete the sale of the parsonage. We thank God for his quick sale of the parsonage. We listed this property just a few months ago. With the economy as it is, we believe God brought the buyer.Thanks for praying. There are items yet to be removed from the barn and storage shed. We have two weeks.

What do we Revere?

2009-07-09T06:53:00.002-04:00

"We absorb what we adore; we appropriate what we appreciate; and we are enriched by what we revere.”
author unknown

We Have A Part

2009-07-08T08:36:00.000-04:00

"God will not give us good habits; He will not give us character, He will not make us walk aright. We have to do that for ourselves; Beware of the tendency of asking the way when you know it perfectly well." Oswald Chambers

Search the Scriptures

2009-07-06T06:10:00.000-04:00

Paul and Silas were in Berea. The people eagerly listened to what they had to say. Then it says they searched the Scriptures day after day to check up on Paul and Silas. Then many came to Jesus Christ as a result. Let us all search the Scriptures to be sure what is said is consistent with the authority of the Bible. Acts 17. Check is out!

Cell Phone vs. Bible

2009-07-04T16:28:00.000-04:00

Do you ever wonder what would happen if we treated out Bible like we treat our cell phones?

What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?

What if we turned back to get it if we forgot it?

What if we flipped through it several times a day?

What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?

What if we gave it to our children as gifts?

What if we used it as we traveled?

What if we used it in case of an emergency?

Oh, and one more thing, unlike our cell phones, we don't ever have to worry about our Bible being disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill!

(author unknown)

Found in "The Fishwrapper" Vol. 13 Issue 16 8/15/08