HAPPY FATHER’S DAY, GOD!

 

            As I was thinking about this month’s newsletter article, I read “A FATHER’S PRAYER” by Douglas MacArthur: “Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory. Build me a son whose wishbone will not be where his backbone should be; a son who will know Thee and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge. Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here let him learn to stand up in the storm; Here let him learn compassion for those who fail. Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high; a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men; one who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep; one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past. And after all these things are his, add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, the meekness of true strength. Then I, his father, will dare to whisper, ‘I have not lived in vain.’”

            Many fathers will be celebrating Father’s Day 2008 with their children, spouses, other family members, and friends. However, whether we celebrate with an earthly father or not, it is incredibly vital for us to always celebrate the Heavenly Father who has loved us since the beginning of time. It was even prophesied in the Old Testament: “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders, And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NIV). Let us remember that God, “A Father to the fatherless…,” is able to provide for, care for, protect, and guide us in a way that earthly fathers do not have the capacity to do (Psalm 68:5 NIV). Even when celebrating our earthly dads, let us remember that there is a God-sized “hole” in everyone’s heart that only the Father can fill. He has the ability to teach men how to be fathers after His own heart and is the perfect role model for everyone to follow. Let’s give God a place of priority by celebrating Him each day, thanking Him for the loving fathers (and father-figures) in our lives, and praying for our loved ones on a daily basis. “…Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven’” (Matthew 6:8-10 NIV). My prayer is that all dads who read this newsletter will have a blessed Father’s Day celebration!

            In addition to celebrating Father’s Day, the month of June is very busy for the church. June 14^th marks Flag Day, a time set aside to honor, show respect, and fly the American flag. This is also a day to remember our nation’s leaders and military families in our prayers. Father’s Day, a special time set aside to honor and remember the most important male figure in your life, is June 15^th. Also, June 16^th-20^th marks Vacation Bible School (VBS), a time for the church to be involved in teaching the word of God to young people. Every member of the church is asked to be involved in VBS. If you are wondering how you can get involved, the answer is: Get all children you know registered for VBS, volunteer your time, help provide supplies, and, most importantly, pray daily for VBS. What a unique opportunity for each of us to be about God’s business! Jesus said, “As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4 NIV). So, let us further our Father’s kingdom by working together, not only during the special occasions mentioned above, but everyday! “Have we not all one Father? Did not one God create us?” (Malachi 2:10). As brothers and sisters in Christ, let us be on one accord with excitement as the Lord blesses our immediate families and our church family this month. The family of God working together…what a great gift to offer our Heavenly Father!

                                         ***James H. Callaway, Pastor***

 

 

CHURCH FUNNIES:

********************************************************************************************A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five

and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to "honor thy father and thy mother," she asked "Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?"

Without missing a beat one little boy answered, "Thou shall not kill."

LOT 'S WIFE

The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, "My Mummy looked back once, while she was driving," he announced triumphantly, "and she turned into a telephone pole!"

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More Bible Trivia

Q. Who was the greatest female financier in the Bible?
A. Pharaoh's daughter. She went down to the bank of the Nile and drew out a little prophet.
Q. What kind of motor vehicles are in the Bible?
A. Jehovah drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden in a Fury.
A. David's Triumph was heard throughout the land.
A. Honda--because the apostles were all in one Accord.
A. 2 Cor. 48 describes going out in service in a Volkswagen Beetle: "We are pressed in every way, but not cramped beyond movement."

 

June Calendar of Events -

Fri. 6,       7:00 p.m. ABW Women

Mon. 9,   7:00 p.m. Deacon’s Meeting

Tues. 10,   6:00 p.m. Pre-Board Meeting

                7:00 p.m. CE Board and Trustee Meetings

                8:00 p.m. Official Board Meeting

Thurs. 12, 1:30 p.m. Priscilla Circle

Thurs. 26,  6:30 p.m. Life Without a Mate

Tues 24,   7:00 Lydia Circle

 

ABW Ministry:

 

 

 

Gail Dye, ABWM President

American Baptist Women's Ministries will not be meeting in June.  But please attend your Circle meetings and continue to pray for our Special Interest Missionaries and our Special Project, "Break the Chains:Slavery in the 21st Century".

Our next meeting will be July llth in Harrison Chapel.

 

The following is a portion of an article in the ABWMinistries "Central Connection" concerning the Special Project:

 

"Victims of human trafficking face numerous health risks.  Physical risks include drug and alcohol addiction; physical injuries (broken bones, concussions, burns, vaginal and anal tearings);  Traumatic brain injury resulting in memory loss, dizziness, headaches, numbness;  STD's;  sterility, miscarriages, menstrual problems;  and the list goes on.  The Referral Hotline to get help for these women and girls is 1-888-373-7888. 

Please keep these victims in your daily prayers and give generously to our project so we can help these women and children."

 

If you would like to know more about this project you may visit these websites:

www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking/about/fact_sex.    or    www.abwmbreakthechains.org

 

ABWMinistries Summer Retreat will be held on June 6th and 7th.  I hope many of you have already made plans to attend.  More information about Special Project will be shared there too.

 

Another area of service for ABWomen is helping people in our own community.  You may ask "What can I do for those in my church and community that won't cost too much?"  Here are some ideas.  How about a Secret Prayer Pal?  Send a homemade loaf of bread to someone who is a "shut-in", remember someone's birthday with a $3.00 bouquet of flowers from a grocery store, send a card for a special occasion or one "just thinking and praying for you",  give a small gift or card to say 'thanks" to someone.

There are many ways to volunteer in the community.  Call a nursing home and get a name to send cards to --someone who doesn't have anyone.  When you are going to the store, call your neighbor to see if she needs anything, or call someone just to say "Hi".....  Let God guide you to what He wants you to do and He'll give you the ability to do it.  Be creative and see how you can contribute to your church and/or community.

 

AWANA/YOUTH

 

Hey everybody important awana dates to remember –Sunday May 25, 2008 awards ceremony.

Dates for summer program - June 8, 2008, June 22, 2008,

July 13, 2008, July 27, 2008, August 10, 2008

All times are the same as regular Awana, except June 22, 2008 which is the same day as the all church picnic.  Start time is 4:00 p.m.  The first day of the new Awana year will be august 17, 2008.  We will begin enrolling on august 3, 2008 hope to see all of you this summer and in the new Awana year.  Roy Richardson, commander

 

CAMPING

From kindergarten to 18 years old pack your bags and tell your parents to get your registration in because camp is right around the corner. If you are interested in summer camp, check the schedule on the bulletin board and get a registration form from the church office.  This year the theme is FRESH FAITH, be prepared for the time of your life.

 

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Sundown Salute worship service in Heritage Park July 6.  Please note we will not hold our Sunday School or  11 a.m. worship service here at the church that morning in order to allow participation in the community church service.

 

One of our Military Families:  The Guy Family.

David and Pattye met and married in Texula, OK.  After high school David joined the US Army July 2, 1996.  Pattye worked as a nursing assistant.  They were married at the First Baptist Church of Texula, OK on July 3, 1998, her father, Charlie Floyd officiated the service.  Their first home was Ft. Campbell, KY where their first child, Emma Kathleen, was born.  A few months later they moved to Scholfield Barracks, Hawaii and served for 13 months, where their second girl, Leigha Francis was born.  They finished out their tour and arrived at Ft. Riley, KS in 2002.  We started serving the Lord at the First Baptist church in September of that same year.  David served his country in Iraq in 2003 and 2005.  He became a Deacon of the church in 2007 and Pattye sang in the choir and sang specials along with the girls.  Both girls have accepted Christ and grew up in the church.  David and Pattye have been married for 10 years.  Emma is 9 years old and Leigha will be 8 in July.

As of June 26, 2008 the Guy  family will start a new ministry.  David will be in Korea and Pattye and the girls will be moving closer to home.  The first Baptist church will always be in our hearts as the family we grew with for 6 years.  We have been truly blessed.

 

On June 22, 2008 at 4:00 pm we will have our church picnic at the park on 5th Street.  Come out for some food, fun, fellowship.  Bring a dish to share.  Bring your lawn chairs to have some fellowship!

Vacation Bible School is coming June 16-20th from 9 am 12 noon.  We will be studying God's Big Backyard!   We look forward to seeing all of you here.

COMMITMENT!!!

It has been said, “April showers bring May flowers!” A flower can add beauty to any scenery and liven up its surroundings. “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:7-9 NIV). I think of all the wildflowers that just come up on their own by God’s hand of love. What a beautiful expression from God to add color and beauty to a world filled with so much gray. When we plant seeds, it takes time and commitment to produce a beautiful flower garden. If we don’t have the time, patience, or commitment it’s best for us and the seeds that we leave them in the package.

Life requires a commitment that one should honor at all times. I thank God for our First Baptist Church family and the hours that many of us dedicate to ministry. We’re all ministries of His Gospel. Ministry in the church is the way we get the message of Jesus Christ across to our community and to the world. Our level of commitment is essential to the church because we must model what it means to be a committed Christian.  “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun” (Psalm 37:5-6 NIV).

Let us think of our church as a flower garden. To have a beautiful flower garden, we must be committed to plant, nurture, water, and exhibit patience for the flowers to grow. Our Christian walk and our church united in the Body of Christ Jesus, require commitment. As you read this newsletter, please ask yourself this question: “How committed am I to my church and its ministries?” The eleven disciples who walked with Jesus were so committed they died for their beliefs. Through the disciple’s commitment of sincere dedication, determination, and discipline in spreading the Gospel, we are representatives in this day as followers of Jesus Christ.

May we continue to be nourished in growing more spiritually in our daily Christian walk and Christian faith to serve others as followers of Jesus’ teachings on servanthood. There are ministries in our church that are in dire need of your services now. So, why not humble yourselves and let God exalt you? Make a commitment today to serve God, believing that He has need of your spiritual gifts. Also, let us always remember what it means to be a (F.A.T.) Christian (Faithful; Available; and Teachable). Think about God, the Bible and what God has done for you and remember: “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:8-9 NIV). We can allow God to empower us in demonstrating His promises of faithfulness and love by giving unselfishly of our: Time, Testimony, Talents, and Treasures. Please pray now for God to plant His Word in seeds of fruitfulness, to nourish you with His Living Water, to spiritually grow you to maturity as a beautiful blooming Spring flower garden in this day to say: “I can do more and give more of myself in uniting with The First Baptist Church of Junction City…Fulfilling God’s Great Commission!” Therefore, as baptized believers in the Body of Christ, you are being obedient to God’s Word as you delight yourself in His statues for storing up treasures here on earth and in Heaven for eternal life in His Kingdom.

The late Dr. M. R. DeHaan from RBC Ministries wrote: BE AN ANDREW! “Only three things are mentioned about Andrew #1) He brought his brother to Jesus (John 1:40-41); (#2) He brought a boy with a simple lunch to Jesus (John 6:8-9); (#3) He brought the Greeks to Jesus (John 12: 20-22).” Unnoticed, unappreciated and all but forgotten; but what a ministry he had! Without Andrew, there would not have been the great preacher of Pentecost, Peter. Without Andrew, the hungry multitude would not have been fed or the Greeks brought to Christ. You may not be able to preach, sing, write, or do many of the flashy things other people may notice. But, you can be of service by prayer, witnessing, and remembering all that is written in this message according to how God has allowed flowers to bloom in your life: Be an Andrew! With much thanksgiving and all praise and glory to God Almighty, these are exciting times for total giving and commitment in our First Baptist Church family! Today, will you say yes to giving...To committing yourself to be all that you can be in Christ? Be an Andrew! “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16 NIV).

We are His workmanship! We are a work in progress! We are partners in God’s work, giving to what God loves, which is a part of His purposes for us. God has need of each one of us and He wants total sacrifice of our entire being to Him. If Jesus is indeed our Lord, we will see that giving is easier when we give ourselves and our choices to the Him. Give with excitement! It’s a rule of life: “God showers His blessings on those who give their lives and resources willingly.” In 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Paul shows how we honor God by encouraging us to give generously and describes the attitude with which we are to give. Thank you for your commitment! God’s forgiveness and salvation through Christ’s death and resurrection makes you alive and rooted in your Christian faith.  To be committed is like the blooming of May flowers growing in God’s love, developing in His faith, and shining in the beauty of His holiness with a community of believers united in God’s family. “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17). Where faith is lacking, he supplies faith. I am confident, through prayer that God will supply your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ!

Happy Mother’s Day!!! We are blessed with God’s gift of mothers!!!

                                          ***James H. Callaway, Pastor***

 

 

 

ABW Ministry:

 

The American Baptist Women are continuing to promote giving to the ABWM Special Project which is "Break the Chains: Slavery in the 21st Century".   The goal for this national project is $250,000 to be raised from 2007-2009.

The funds that are received will be directed to ministries that address the sexual exploitation of women and children: 50% for ministries in the U.S. & Puerto Rico, and 50% for ministries that are international. 

One of the ministries that will be receiving funds is the Mansion of Light Baptist Church in Costa Rica. The church is situated in a poor community where children are subjected to physical and sexual violence in their homes, and where young girls gather at bus stops to go into the city to sell their bodies. The church has a dream to open a Family Life Center that will be a safe place for children. They also plan to reach out to the families in their community with parenting classes, abuse prevention and job training. "Break the Chains" project funding will help this congregation do that outreach. Won't you help us reach this goal. If you want to give by check please make the check out to 1st Baptist Church and in the memo write ABWM Special Project. 

 

ABW Ministries will be meeting on May 2nd, at 7:00 p.m. in Harrison Chapel at the church. The program is entitled "The Cutting Edge" with Joan Zoschke as the program leader.  Devotions will be given by Glenda Bryant and refreshments will be served by Jimmie and Phylis Richardson.  All women of the church are invited to attend.  We hope to see you there.

 

Gail Dye, ABWM President

 

 

 

 

AWANA/YOUTH

 

Our youth program has now been combined with the Awana leadership.

Ayah,  Ayah,  Ayah!!!

Come One, Come All

Are you in the 6th, 7th or 8th grade?

Are you tired of the same old stuff at Sunday School?

Do you have questions you want answered?

Come Sunday Evening, 5:45 to 6:45.

I can't promise we will get all of your questions answered but we will have fun trying.  The first course of study will be on parables and prophecies.  No book needed except for a Bible.  If you don't have one, we have some to use.

If you want more info call the church office, 785-238-3016 or me at 785-375-7504.  If I don't answer leave a message and I will call back.   Hope to see you all soon.  Roy Richardson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MISSIONS!  MISSIONS!  MISSIONS!

 

“It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:7-8 NIV). In last month’s issue of the “The Encourager” I shared with you that I am serving on The General Board of The ABCUSA and The Board of National Ministries. My orientation for this spiritual commitment was held on March 9^th –12^th in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania at the ABCUSA Mission Center. I have been an American Baptist for many years, but this was my first visit to The Mission Center located in Valley Forge. I was impressed to see the day-to-day operation of our national body. The orientation was given by Rev. A. Roy Medley, General Secretary ABCUSA, his staff and various Ministries within the ABCUSA Denomination.

 

The Scripture Reading from Acts 1:7-8 is our commission to evangelize the world. Parts of “The Mission Statement for ABCUSA” are: “The heart of the gospel is God’s redemptive love. In our life together, the world will see the power of forgiveness to overcome alienation, the strength of love to transform hate, the power of grace to break the bonds of guilt, the triumph of hope over despair, and the victory of faith over doubt. Through the cross of Christ we embrace the world as neighbor. Our vision for mission energizes a multitude of servant ministries of evangelism, discipleship, leadership, new church development, social justice, healing, peacemaking, economic development and education. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we work together in mutual trust, humility, love, and giving that the gospel might be preached and lived in the entire world.” When I think of how The First Baptist Church of Junction City fits into the overall mission of the ABCUSA Denomination, I believe we are called to be people of prayer, purpose, and people of passion in our local community, state, nation, and in the world.

 

My orientation to “The Board of National Ministries” was given by Rev. Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins III, Executive Director. As a part of The American Baptist Churches USA, The National Ministries answers God’s call to live out the

the Christian faith and transform individuals, congregations and communities through developing Christ-centered leadership, networks, and programs committed to witness and evangelism, social justice, discipleship and mission work across the United States and Puerto Rico. I returned from this orientation and board meeting feeling that as a Pastor and member of this congregation, we will need to do our share in transforming lives and communities. I will be sharing more relevant information on other issues as I serve in ministry at the denominational level. I feel more and more of the urge for God’s Great Commission. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

                                          ***James H. Callaway, Pastor***

 

 

ABW Women

 

The American Baptist Women’s Ministry will be having a dedication service for the white Cross quotas that have been filled this year.  White Cross is a mission giving ministry that helps Baptist missionaries at home and around the world.  Some of the quotas are Cash quotas and some are a Purchase Plan quota.  On the Purchase Plan our ladies purchase or make many items that are needed on the mission field and send them to the missionaries.

 

I hope all ladies of the church will consider coming and participating in this dedication service.  There will also be a time of refreshments and fellowship.

 

ABW Ministries meets at 7:00 p.m. in Harrison Chapel at the church on April 4^th.  See you there!

 

Gail Dye, ABWM President

 

ABW Ministry:

 

The American Baptist Women will be hosting the Tri-River Spring Rally on April 28, 2008.  Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the brunch will be served at 10:00 a.m.  We are looking forward to Karen Morerod’s presentation of Echo’s of Esther.  So put yourself in Esther’s shoes and be prepared to stretch yourself to the edge of learning and bold service for God.  Karen is our association personal development coordinator.  Gail Dye will be bringing our special music.  Our annual Love Gift offering will be received.  The Spring business meeting and election of new officers will follow.

 

 

AWANA/YOUTH

 

Our youth program has now been combined with the Awana leadership.

 

NEW:  We are starting a new ministry for the Middle School and High School youth.  The rooms will be upstairs in the education wing.  The outline is as follows:  9:30 am to 10:00 am will be a time of fellowship and planning for outings, etc.  10:00 am to 10:45 am will be a time of study.  The Middle school will continue with the David Cook series, however, the High school will not.  The High school will be an open forum type of discussion of matters pertaining to the students based on Bible teachings.  As a High school student if you have questions and want answers come.  If any church member knows of High school or Middle school students not attending or may be attending, please provide us with their names and mailing address and we will contact them.  Sincerely, Roy Richardson

 

 

 

ABW Women

 

In 1928 Mary Gates Atkinson, who was the 3^rd president of what was then called the Kansas Baptist Women’s Union, began a scholarship program that has continued for the past 90 years.  It was established to assist their education as they prepare for ministering as pastors, or in national or international mission service, or full time Christian vocations.  Callie Byington is our local Scholarship Associate for American Baptist Women’s Ministries.  On March 7^th at 7:00 p.m. in Harrison Chapel she will be presenting a program and skit about the Scholarship program.  Students eligible for this scholarship are either attending Bacone College in Oklahoma or Ottawa University in Ottawa, KS or Central Baptist Seminary in Kansas City.  Each year we are assigned a student to pray for and to correspond with.  Our student this year is Seth Vopat.  He is a 3^rd year student at Central Seminary.  He and his wife, Beth, are from Overland Park, KS.  Please add them to your daily prayer list.

 

All ladies of the church are invited to attend this program on March 7^th.  Please join us for an evening of fellowship.