DECEMBER 2018 Vol. 6, Issue 12

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1 3375 Church Lane, Duluth GA Rev. Ronald L. Bowens, Pastor DECEMBER 2018 Vol. 6, Issue 12 Monday, December 31, :00 p.m. Church Office Closed December 24-25, 31 & January 1 DECEMBER Christmas Day 26 Worship Service CANCELLED 31 New Year s Eve JANUARY New Year s Day 5 Men s Ministry Meeting 10:30am 6 FBC Bowling League 5:00pm 12 Women s Ministry 9:00-11:15am 21 MLK Jr Day Inside this Issue: The Birth of Christ... 1 Hymn of the Month... 2 Signs of the Season... 3 Inspirations from the Psalms Seeds of Faith... 6 Prayer List... 7 Health Ministry... 8 Outreach Ministry... 9 Women s Ministry Creative Learning Communications Ministry FBC Bowling League Church News Winter Preparedness Sunday School Classes Opportunities to Serve Bible Reading Schedule FBC MISSION STATEMENT Exalt the Savior Equip the Saint Evangelize the Sinner 2,000 years ago a young woman from the town of Nazareth named Mary was visited by an angel named Gabriel. Gabriel told the Jewish woman that she would have a son named Jesus and that he would be the Son of God. At this time, Mary was engaged to her soon-to-be husband Joseph. When told Joseph he was hurt and confused because he did not believe Mary. The angel Gabriel visited Joseph and told him that Mary would be pregnant from the Lord and that she would have a son named Jesus who would save the people from their sins. Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem because of an order from the Roman emperor that a census, or record, of all people, be taken in their hometown. After traveling pregnant on a donkey for several days, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem and were told that there were no places to stay. The inns were full. Seeing that Mary was due at any moment, an owner of an inn told Joseph that they could stay in his stable. Mary and Joseph settled down on the hay in a stable with animals sleeping. Mary went into labor and Jesus was born in the stable. The only place for the sleeping baby to rest was most likely in the animals trough, known as the manger. During this time, an angel appeared to shepherds who were watching their flocks in the fields near Bethlehem. The angel told them the good news of the birth of the Savior and Messiah, Jesus Christ. The shepherds immediately went to find baby Jesus, which the angels told them they would find sleeping in the manger. After some time, three wise men, also known as magi, saw the brilliant star in that sky that rested over where Jesus was born. The three wise men traveled from a far eastern country to find the new king. During the wise men s trip, Herod the king of Judah met with the wise men and told them to come back and let him know where the baby king was so that he could go worship him as well. The wise men continued to Bethlehem and found Jesus right where the star pointed. They knelt and worshipped the Savior and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They then traveled back home a different way knowing that King Herod was not intending to worship Jesus but that he planned to kill the baby. Today, we celebrate the birth of Jesus and the coming of our Savior at Christmas time. Source:

2 December 2017 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 2 HYMN OF THE MONTH Joy to the World If you were asked to name three famous Christmas carols, the subject of this story would probably be in the group you would choose. One of our most popular carols is the result of the efforts of three notable men, Isaac Watts, George Frederick Handel and Lowell Mason. Handel was a large, robust, outspoken musical genius, while Watts was a frail, sickly, quiet man only 5-feet tall. Mason was an energetic publisher, choir director and composer. Handel and Watts lived in London and were acquaintances, and Mason lived 100 years later in Boston. In 1719, Isaac Watts, already a notable scholar and author, sat down under a tree at the Abney Estate near London and began to compose some poetry based on Psalm 98. He had, in his teen years, complained that the songs sung in church were hard to sing. His father said, Well, you write some that are better. And so he did. For the next two years, young Isaac wrote a new hymn each week. The people loved them. In 1741, George Frederick Handel, who was already famous as a composer, decided that he wanted to do a truly great work. After spending several hours in prayer, he labored for 23 days writing his now famous Messiah, one of the greatest of all sacred classics. USA Today once reported that approximately 125 million people heard the Messiah the previous year. It has been the basis for many other compositions. A noble man once praised Handel for the entertainment he has furnished in one of his compositions. In no uncertain terms Handel let the gentleman know that his music was composed to make men better, not to entertain them. Almost a century later, Lowell Mason found Watts poem of joy and wanted very much to publish it. There was only one problem - he didn t have a proper musical setting. In his search, he came upon a beautiful melody in Handel s Messiah. So Mason set Watts poem to Handel s music and created one of the world s most beloved and popular Christmas songs, Joy to the World. Joy to the world! The Lord is come. Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare him room, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing. Joy to the earth! The Savior reigns. Let men their songs employ, While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. In every corner of the globe, Christ sets the captive free and puts a song in lonely hearts. He reigns as king in the lives of men. And he can bring joy to you if you really believe the message, Joy to the world, the Lord is come. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. Matthew 2:10 Contributed by Paulette Tapp

3 December 2017 Page 3 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church By Christine Smith Withdraw Inactivity New Life is Coming! Timeout Eclipse Retreat Shorter days, bare trees, icy cold weather, and hot chocolate are all signs that Winter is upon us. The Winter season starts December 21 and ends March 21. While the trees go bare and the plants go dormant, we have full confidence that Spring will come again, which represents God s Promise of the Resurrection! It is said that the four seasons are reflective of the full life cycle. Spring represents our youth where the tender young root system of trees and plants need nourishment to grow. Summer represents our adulthood where the trees and plants adjust to their surroundings. Fall represents our golden years it s harvest time for everything that has been planted, grown and ripened. Winter represents death, which for the Christian is not to be feared. To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven; a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted. Ecclesiastes 3:2 KJV SPRING SUMMER In this season, take timeout to consider the things you want to shed from your life. Remember, New Life is coming and you have the opportunity for a fresh start! FALL WINTER

4 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 4 INSPIRATION FROM THE PSALMS Written By Evangelist Deloris Williams PSALM 31:5 KJV A Psalm of David Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou has redeemed me O LORD of truth. SITUATION: Our focal point in this responsorial Psalm involves an anthem of a (corporal work) spoken from the Cross of Calvary of Our LORD and Savior for over 3,000 years ago from a gruesome and horrific, and grisly, act of evil the historical song of a cry, a whimper, of a concluding end for the rescue from an unspeakable revulsion of persecution having been finished. Why has this (Psalm) become so famous of a whimper, and why has it involved those who follow CHRIST JESUS? David knew persecution! This entire Psalm is suggested to be read. FOCUS AND INSIGHT: TO BE GENUINE WILL COST! Meaning of Genuine from on-line Thesaurus: To be real, authentic and indisputable, true, legitimate, valid, unadulterated and being the actual real deal! NOT by man s eyes, but GOD s eyes. A FORTRESS IN ADVERSITY: The fabric of which we are made defines our mission. This Psalm is a Spiritual ligament to Stephen, filled with grace and power, and performing great wonders and signs. Read Acts 6:8-15 Acts 7:54-8:3. Stephen was couched between vicious council of grisly evil from the so-called Synagogue of men who did not understand or withstand the wisdom with which he spoke. Are you HOLY SPIRIT filled? Scripture says those who heard Stephen became infuriated, and they ground their teeth at him. What TRUTH are you refusing to compromise, causing Satan and his followers to hate to the point of killing, stoning, wounding in thought or attitude towards someone spiritually Chosen for a work for JESUS? EXPLORATION: Synagogue? Evidently, a place of worship, prayer and learning for Jewish people; nevertheless, we encounter these same people today. We, as followers of Jesus Christ, live in a time and place where violent persecution is seen in these last days! An evil bacteria of cunningness has crept in among the sheep and will produce an army of False Christian-likeness. READ ON! ONLY GOD will judge faithfulness!

5 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 5 (Inspiration from the Psalms cont d) INSPIRATION: Examining (who we are and for what we stand for)? GOD usually shows us our (true) hearts when we see those who suffer for Christ through our presence and support in their suffering. Who do you say you are in Christ? Are you living up to your (Title)? How have you had compassion as a TRUE, GENUINE and CHRIST- LIKE man or woman of GOD? WHO ARE YOU REALLY?: We are not dispatched to gather and listen to feel good services and trust God to keep us in our comfort zones. Listen to how Stephen resembles the model of Jesus as he quoted a concluding responsorial breath of release. Scripture linked to this Psalm another example of what (the FIGHT represents). We read as Saul (later Paul) stands by as Stephen, soon to be the first Martyr, is being stoned to death! Filled with the HOLY SPIRIT, Stephen looked up intently to heaven, as he was being stoned to death and saw the glory of GOD and JESUS standing at the right hand of GOD! Did you do your duty? Read for yourself. TRUTH OR DARE?: How (hot or cold) are we to spiritual darkness? Are we advocates or (spiritual celebrities) poisoned by the fruits of carnality? Man is never Superior to his Creator, and is ever inferior because many are NOT aware that we are saved by grace and mercy from the domains of darkness. NOTHING ELSE! CONCLUSION: Under the hailing stones, rather spiritual or physical attacks, how many have (mediocrely) said GOD help, and a quick AMEN, in the case of those called according to the The FIGHT going through? When was the last time you did this in person for those under spiritual attack; a phone call, in pursuit of (Your ) personal happiness and (comfort) in this (WORLD) as a Christian?! Are you willing to give your life for the cause in (authentic) warfare prayer? Do your works match the title as a Servant of the LORD? Like (Saul-Paul), ARE YOU STANDING OBSERVING?! STEPHEN, THE MARTYR, DIED SPEAKING BOLDLY AGAINST SIN! In the End of Life for Jesus, will you be qualified to say these famous words: Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou has redeemed me O LORD of truth? WHAT S YOUR TESTIMONY IN THE FINAL CHAPTER YOUR SOUL IS WRITING? DON T BE AFRAID TO RUN FOR JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH. CHRISTIANS WILL NOT ONLY BE JUDGED FOR WHAT THEY DO, BUT FOR WHAT THEY DID NOT DO!

6 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 6 THREE KEYS TO THE SEED OF FAITH CAMPAIGN: 1. Recognize that God is your Source - Philippians 4:19 says, My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. God will use many different instruments to supply our needs but He alone is the Source, and He alone cannot fail. 2. Give first, so that it may be given back to you - Luke 6:38 says, Give, and it will be given to you. We must first plant a Seed of Faith so that God can multiply it back to meet our needs. Jesus is talking about giving in the deepest sense of the word the giving of ourselves to God. This includes anything we can give: love, time, patience, forgiveness, finances, and our prayers. Please note that our giving reflects our Trust in God. 3. Expect a miracle - Mark 11:24 says, Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. The moment we ask God for something the moment we do our part and plant our Seed of Faith we should believe God that the answer is on its way. It s important to expect our miracle so we can recognize it and reach out to take it when it comes. How This Campaign Will Work: Over the next 78 weeks, we are asking every member and friends to sow a seed of $26 over and above your tithes and offerings. If you are not able to give $26, give what you can, and if you are able to give more than $26, please do so. If you are blessed to give $260 or $2,600 per week, be obedient to God. We are asking you to please utilize the blue envelopes located on the back of the pews. Using the blue envelopes will help our Finance Ministry greatly. This allows them to track and account for your seed offerings. So please each Sunday for 78 weeks, give God something to work with. No matter how little you think you have, sow it in Joy and in Faith, knowing you are Sowing Seeds so you, your family, our church, each ministry and our community may reap miracles from the seeds that are sown.

7 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 7 Remember with prayer, calls and visitations Bro. James Agee Bro. Gabriel Bell Bro. Willie Benton Min. Karen Blacknell Rev. Kenneth Blacknell Dea. Hezekiah Bowens, Jr. Bro. Julius Brogdon Sis. Joyce Brooks Sis. Sherie Brown Bro. Tyler Caldwell Sis. Pearl Coles Sis. Nekka Dean Sis. Doris Doyle Sis. Everlene Fisher Sis. Barbara Hall Sis. Crystal Ingram Bro. Willie L. Harris Sis. Charlotte Hayes Bro. Leroy Hurt Bro. David Johnson Sis. Mary L. Jones Bro. Patrick Jones Sis. Diedra Joyner Bro. Dennis Kimmey Sis. Mabel Lawrence Bro. Edwin Logan Sis. Sylvia Marrow Sis. Roxanne Motley Evg. Valerie Montaque Sis. Khuyen Nguyen The Palmer Family Sis. Gloria Peters Bro. Garvin Potts Bro. Kelvin Pruitt Sis. Carrie Rawls Sis. Peggy Rogers Bro. Benny Rollins Bro. Rennie Samuels Dea. Clarence Slaughter Bro. Antone Smith Sis. Latisha Smith Sis. Valerie Smith Bro. Xavier Stephens Sis. Tiffany Stovall Bro. Julian Sydnor Sis. April Walker Sis. Mabel Thomas Sis. Savalia Thomas Rev. Dwight Wilkerson Min. Floyd Williams Dea. Clendon Wilson Sis. Sadie Wilson Bro. Donald Wood

8 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 8 HEALTH MINISTRY AIDS Awareness Month December is AIDS Awareness Month. AIDS Awareness Month is a key opportunity to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed on, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services. Statistics According to AIDS.gov, more than one million Americans are living with HIV, but one in five of them are not aware they are infected. While the total number of people with HIV in the United States has increased recently, the annual number of new infections has remained relatively stable. World AIDS Day is important because it reminds us that HIV has not gone away every 9.5 minutes someone in the U.S. is infected. There is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education. It also serves as a prime opportunity to remind people of how important it is to get tested and to know your results. FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM AND FITNESS CENTER HOURS OF OPERATION: Mornings Monday Friday 9:00 am 12:00 noon Evenings Tuesday 4:00 pm 8:00 pm

9 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 9 OUTREACH MINISTRY ONE BODY SAVED TO SERVE OUTREACH CENTER HOURS: Mondays & Saturdays: 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Wednesdays: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm The Friendship Market ***Fruit and Produce*** The Friendship Market food distribution project needs more MALE VOLUNTEERS between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Fridays. If you can volunteer for any hours during that time, please contact Diana McGhee at or by dianaymcghee@bellsouth.net. Wednesdays: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Fridays: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Saturdays: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Items will be distributed in the Fellowship Hall on Fridays and from the Outreach Center on Wednesdays and Saturdays on a first come, first served basis. Did you know that the Outreach Ministry hosts a mid-week worship service every Wednesday at noon in the Fellowship Hall? Join us!! The FBC Outreach Ministry offers a Care Community to support foster care parents and information on becoming a foster parent. We also offer training to members who wish to become Care Community volunteers. Please contact Venda or Linda LBmilton1@charter.net for more information.

10 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 10 THANKSGIVING OUTREACH The FBC Outreach Ministry hosted its 10 th Annual Thanksgiving Eve Service and Luncheon on Wednesday, November 21, 2018, in the Family Life Center. It was a wonderful time of fellowship with people in the community and with FBC members.

11 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 11 (Thanksgiving Outreach cont d)

12 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 12 (Thanksgiving Outreach cont d)

13 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 13 (Thanksgiving Outreach cont d) Diana McGhee, Ministry Leader Photos courtesy of Louie Malone

14 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 14 WOMEN S MINISTRY Saturday, November 10, The morning began with ministry leader, Vickie Chambers, inviting each sister to share a verse she had been meditating on: Gerri Wright, Galatians 5:17-23; Mother Dorothy Blagmon, Psalm 102 and Cheryl Alford, Hebrews 11:1. In keeping with the monthly tradition, a warm welcome was extended to new member, Lois Shorter, who is also celebrating a birthday on November 26 th and guest, Shenia Jackson, who was visiting for the first time. Vickie also surprised each sister present with an opportunity to receive a gift from a vast display of donated items. As the women prepared for the morning s event, we were inspired by several songs played for the group by our resident musical technician, Dranita Morrow. She encouraged women to listen and meditate on the following: The Spirit of Love is Here and Satisfied, both of whose lyrist is unknown. However, the women were well familiar with Change Me sung by Tamela Mann. All three renditions were a blessing to the mind and the soul. They were followed by a liturgical interpretation of Let Your Glory Fill This Place. The ministry is grateful for the faithfulness of Evg. Kimberly Rogers who uses her gift of interpretive dancing to uplift the women every month. In preparation for the Women s Ministry Best Festive Table Contest in December, Vickie established several groups of women who agreed to come together on Friday, December 7 th, to work as a team under the leadership of those sisters who are part of the Creative Learning Workshop. This gathering will be one of fun and fellowship as well. Members of the Seniors Ministry will also be on hand to decorate a table. The morning topic was The Fruit of the Spirit taken from Galatians 5:23-24 and introduced by Min. Nicole Walker. She began by encouraging each sister to make a note of what needs to be changed in her life. She reminded the women that we are all a work in progress and each has something she needs the Holy Spirit to work in her. Min. Nicole emphasized the fact that we women need our God to intercede for us daily. After her opening prayer, Min. Nicole introduced the first speaker who had the responsibility of sharing a three-minute presentation and following it to introduce the next speaker. Shared below are brief highlights presented by each speaker: JOY - Min. Roslyn Long Min. Long began by sharing with the group the joy she had as she prepared a candlelight breakfast for her husband of 33 years. She continued by reminding the women that we should want the joy of the Lord in everything we do. The joy of the Lord is our strength. Rejoice that the Lord has come. Rejoice every day for His presence. Remember that the joy you have can never be taken away because this world did not give it to you. She ended by reminding women that her joy is because of her personal walk with the Lord. Nehemiah 8:10b says, This day is holy to our LORD. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. PEACE - Harriet Hairston We must be thankful for peace. It speaks of unity. We can t be at peace without love. It s important to understand that we can t separate the fruit. Peace brings an inner calm. When we get anxious, we must realize that calling on Jesus will bring us an inner peace. Several scriptures were provided: Isaiah 26:3 Thou will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee because he trusts in Thee. Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. LONGSUFFERING - Brenda Graves Longsuffering is the godly patience that we need to show to others what our God did for us. He wants us to be like Him. Be mindful that we are in training to become kings and priests. We must show mercy and be forbearing. We must seek forgiveness from those we offend. We must practice going from the old to the new in Christ. In other words, we must become like Christ. We must learn to react to others the way we want God to do with us. Colossians 3: Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe

15 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 15 (Women s Ministry cont d) yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the LORD forgave you. GENTLENESS - Irene Cassell Gentleness is not a weakness. Jesus was gentle. It means to fear God and be obedient to Him. It s a strong hand with a soft touch. It speaks truth with a guarded tone. It uplifts and restores. Through it, we are able to love. To be gentle takes yielding to the Holy Spirit. We must watch our words and walk in the scriptures. We re exhorted to not only guard our words but our facial expressions and, finally, to be kindhearted to one another. Ephesians 4:2 - With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;... FAITH - Robin Dawson After sharing a testimony of the responsibilities involved in the passing of her mom, Robin reminded the women that it s a journey in which you really learn to trust God. She encouraged the women to pray and not try to do everything on your own. Instead, look to God every day and walk in what He has for you. She did so when she started her online business, reminding herself to stay in the Word. One of several verses she shared was: Hebrews 11:1 - Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen. MEEKNESS - Cynthia Urquhart We must never give a person a reason for us to become uncivil. We re born with a birthmark and we should each bear the reflection of that birthmark. There are five characteristics of a Christian s birthmark: 1) Confession - Romans 10:9: If ye confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, ye shall be saved. 2) Change - 1 John 2:29: Everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him. When you are truly saved, you will think, act and speak differently. 3) Compassion - 1 John 4:7: Beloved let us love one another for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. 4) Conflict - 1 John 2:14c: you have overcome the wicked one. 5) Conduct - 1 John 3:9: Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. This is not to say that you will never sin. However, when we do, we will confess our sin and seek God s forgiveness and grace to do better. Finally, meekness is an active and deliberate acceptance of undesirable circumstances that are widely seen as only part of a larger picture. Cynthia shared a moment in her life when she did not exhibit meekness. She acknowledged her failure to see the bigger picture and repented. She did so with the full realization that God s grace is inexhaustible and His salvation is irreversible. TEMPERANCE - Tuwanda Williams Temperance most commonly means selfcontrol. It s important to exercise selfdiscipline to get a crown that will last forever. It includes the ability to say no. It s the inner strength to be master over self and be ruled by Christ. It includes making time for what s important to God. Her prayer is that all women be fruitful bearers of temperance. Several scriptures were provided, two of which are noted here: (1) Titus 1:8 which encourages us to be a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; (2) 2 Peter 1:56 says And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness. LOVE - Pamela Stodghill Love is an action word. It s what you do; not what you feel. If you truly love, it will cause you to forgive others; to pray for them; to uplift them. Once you re a partaker, be a distributor. Scriptures she offered included: Romans 5:6-8 - For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. This ended the morning s presentations. We pray that enough nuggets have been provided to give you a bit more understanding concerning the Fruit of the Spirit and how it should impact your life. Heartfelt appreciation was extended to each of our sisters who stood before us to share what our Great and Merciful God placed on their

16 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 16 (Women s Ministry cont d) hearts. Having been spiritually satiated, we then had time to partake of a light breakfast prepared by our faithful servant, Sis. Gertie Brock. We truly thank God for her dedicated service in this area. To God be the glory for the things He has done and is doing in our midst. Submitted by Cheryl Alford Photos by Shirley Price

17 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 17 CREATIVE LEARNING Saturday, November 17, 2018

18 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 18 (Creative Learning cont d) To end the 2018 year, our Servant Leader, Pat Malone, once again hosted an Ugly Sweater-Ornament Party luncheon in her home. Games, good food and fun was had by all. Prizes were handed out for the Ugliest, Most Creative, and Girl You Tried sweaters and for other games played. We want to thank Pat for her unselfish service and the support of her faithful team during Submitted by Paulette Tapp Photos by Shirley Price

19 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 19 WOMEN S MINISTRY ANNOUNCEMENT HAPPY NEW YEAR to All! The Women s Ministry will come together on January 12, 2019 From 9 11:15am In the Fellowship Hall (lower level) We d love for all of our sisters to join us. Please arrive by 8:45am so that we can begin on time. The theme for the morning will be Getting to Know You We hope to see you there and by all means, Bring a Friend.

20 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 20 COMMUNICATIONS MINISTRY Members of the Communications Team met at the home of Louie (Ministry President) and Pat Malone on Saturday, December 1 st, for the annual ministry fellowship. There were games played and prizes to win, wonderful food and lots of fun and laughter. Photos by Louie Malone and Shirley Price Family Feud LOSERS I want that book!

21 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 21 FRIENDSHIP IN FELLOWSHIP BOWLING LEAGUE All Ages Welcome! Individuals and/or 3 Member Teams January 6, :00 p.m. Stars & Strikes 1601 Horizon Parkway Buford, GA For more information, contact Deacon Michael or ethel.emery@yahoo.com

22 INTER ES TED IN BEING A DRIVER December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 22 & Other Important Information WEEKLY CLASSES Sunday Masterlife 1: The Disciple s Cross - FLC Room 130 Masterlife 2: The Disciple s Personality - FLC Room 210 Masterlife 3: The Disciple s Victory - FLC Room 211 Masterlife 4: The Disciple s Mission - FLC Room 213 GriefShare - FLC Room 234 Monday When Life Is Hard Turning Your Trials into Gold. Join us Monday nights from 7:00 8:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Books are $12. Transportation Ministry Interested in being a driver? Dial Need a ride to the church? Dial and leave a message. OTHER NEWS AROUND GWINNETT Tax Commissioner s Office Seniors 65 or older on January 1 can get an exemption. If you are 65 years or older as of January 1 and your taxable income is below $91,912, you likely qualify for the Senior School Tax Exemption. Apply by April 1, 2019, to be eligible. To apply for an exemption, visit For assistance, tax@gwinnettcounty.com or call

23 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 23 COME JOIN US Every Wednesday Night for: Intercessory Prayer Coming Together to Pray for Each Other and the World 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Worship Service & Bible Study 7:30 p.m.

24 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 24 Be Prepared For Winter Weather The onset of winter brings invigorating temperatures and bracing breezes, but it can also carry some risk. Be winter wise, and reduce the chance of mishaps or even tragedy. Start by having all home heating appliances serviced by a qualified technician. Check smoke alarms and practice a home fire drill to test your escape plan. Install a carbon monoxide alarm near sleeping areas. Dress appropriately and wear warm layers of clothes. Every household should have an emergency preparedness plan. Test your plan and build a winter weather kit that includes: Flashlights and extra batteries Battery-powered NOAA weather radio and a portable AM/FM radio Extra food and water, such as high-energy snacks Extra medications Extra baby supplies Basic first-aid supplies Blankets, sleeping bags and extra clothing Check The Weather Before You Go If the weather is frigid, you're going to want to warm up the car before you drive it. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never leave a vehicle running in an enclosed area, such as a garage. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that a car running in an attached garage is never safe, even with the garage door open. If the forecast looks iffy, wait out the storm if possible. But if you must travel make sure you share your travel plans and route with someone before you leave. If you become stranded in an unfamiliar area, do not leave your car. Light flares in front and behind the car and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, mud or any object. Prepare Your Car For Winter Besides checking the weather, it's important to have a mechanic check the condition of the following vehicle systems before heading out on the road: Ignition Brakes Wiring Hoses and fan belts Spark plugs Air, fuel and emissions filters, and PCV valve Distributor Battery Tire wear and air pressure Antifreeze level and freeze line

25 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 25 Don't Leave Home Without These Winter road trips even short ones are a great way to celebrate with family and friends. Being prepared can ensure a safe and happy time is had by all.

26 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 26 FBC YOUTH MINISTRY AGES: NURSERY - 5TH GRADE 7:30 AM & 11:00 AM SERVICES As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace 1 Peter 4:10 TEEN MINISTRY HERITAGE CHURCH AGES 12 TO 19 (MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL) 7:30 AM & 11:00 AM SERVICES

27 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 27 Bro. Dorian Rogers Superintendent 4integrityauto@gmail.com CLASSES LOCATED IN THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER (FLC): Class Room Class Room Men s Class 131 In Teens (High School) 217 Survival Kit 135 Jesus and Me (Middle School) 219 Women s Class 139 CONN3CT (College age 19-29) 220 Basic Bible Study 208 IGNITE! (Singles and Young Adults 29 & Older) 221 New Member s Class 209 Marriage Class 233 Master Life 1: The Disciple s Cross 130 Single Parenting 220 Master Life 2: The Disciple s Personality 210 Master Life 3: The Disciple s Victory 211 Master Life 4: The Disciple s Mission 212 Note: Adult classes are combined on the 5 th Sundays and meet in the Sanctuary CLASSES LOCATED IN THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE MAIN BUILDING: The Nursery (3 months-2 years old) Beginners (3-4 year olds) Primary (K-2 nd Grade) Juniors (3 rd -5 th Grade)

28 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 28 0PPORTUNITIES TO SERVE WEEKLY Worship Services Sunday 7:30 & 11:00 am Sanctuary Teen Church Sunday 7:30 & 11:00 am Heritage Church Sunday School Sunday 9:45 am Family Life Center Sunday School (Youth) Sunday 9:45 am Lower Level Main Building New Members Class Sunday 9:45 am Room 209 Family Life Center Deacons Meeting Tuesday (1st & 3rd) 7:00 pm Room 232 Family Life Center Mid-Week Service Wednesday 12:00 noon Heritage Church Intercessory Prayer Wednesday 6:30 pm Sanctuary Sunday School Teachers Wednesday 6:30 pm Lower Level Main Building Adult Bible Study Wednesday 7:30 pm Sanctuary Youth Church Bible Study Wednesday 7:45 pm Lower Level Main Building Recovery Ministry 7 days a week 24 hours a day Contact: Tim MONTHLY Education Ministry 2nd Monday 7:00 pm Room 303 Lower Level Main Bldg Usher Ministry 1st Tuesday 7:00 pm Room 135 Family Life Center Men s Ministry 1st Saturday 7:30 am TBA Monthly Media Ministry 1st Saturday 9:30 am Room 130 Family Life Center Mothers Ministry 1st Saturday 9:30 am Room 135 Family Life Center Ministers Meeting 1st Saturday 3:00 pm Room 232 Family Life Center Women s Ministry 2nd Saturday 8:45 am Fellowship Hall Money Matters 2nd Saturday 11:30 am Fellowship Hall Male Chorus Preparation 2nd & 4th Saturdays 9:30 am Sanctuary Health Ministry 2nd Saturday 11:00 am Room 303 Lower Level Main Bldg Outreach Ministry 3rd Saturday 9:00 am Fellowship Hall Shepherd s Care Ministry 3rd Saturday 10:00 am Room 202 Lower Level Main Bldg Communications Ministry 3rd Saturday 11:00 am Room 135 Family Life Center Marriage Ministry 3rd Saturday 5:00 pm Room 239 Family Life Center Seniors Ministry 4th Saturday 11:00 am Fellowship Hall Singles Ministry 4th Saturday 12:30 pm Lower Level Heritage Church Prison Ministry Gospel Choir Preparation Tuesday before 1 st & 3 rd Sundays 7:00 pm Youth Choir Preparation Tuesday before 2 nd & 4 th Sundays 6:45 pm SPECIAL MONTHLY SERVICES Holy Communion 1st Sunday 7:30 & 11:00 am Sanctuary Baptism 3rd Sunday 11:00 am Sanctuary Baby Dedications 4th Sunday 7:30 & 11:00am Sanctuary Get plugged in and start serving today. Your gifts, talent, skills and time are needed.

29 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 29 National Black Anthem Lift every voice and sing, till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of liberty; Let our rejoicing rise, high as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory won. Stony the road we trod, bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, have not our weary feet, Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered; Out from the gloomy past, till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who has brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee. Shadowed beneath Thy hand, may we forever stand, True to our God, true to our native land.

30 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 30 This schedule will take you through the entire Bible in a year. OLD TESTAMENT POETRY NEW TESTAMENT January February March January February March January February March 1 Gen. 1,2 1 Exod.13,14 1 Num. 1,2 2 Psalm 1 1 Psalm 23 1 Psalm 43 2 Matt. 1 1 Matt Mark ,4 2 15,16 2 3, ,6 3 17,18 3 5, Luke 1 4 7,8 4 19,20 4 7, , ,22 5 9, , , , , , , , , , Mark , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,30 15 Lev. 1, , , , , , , , , , , , ,10 19 Deut. 1, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Exod. 1, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,26 April May June April May June April May June 1 Deut. 27,28 1 I Sam. 3,4 1 I Kings 9,10 3 Psalm 66 1 Psalm 86 1 Psalm Luke 22 1 John 18 1 Acts ,30 2 5,6 2 11, ,32 3 7,8 3 13, ,34 4 9, , John Josh. 1,2 5 11, , Acts ,4 6 13, , ,6 7 15, , ,8 8 17,18 8 I Kings 1, , ,20 9 3, , , , , , , , , , Rom , , , : , , , : , , , Sam. 1, , : Judg. 1,2 17 3, , : ,4 18 5, , : ,6 19 7, , : ,8 20 9, : , ,12 21 I Chr. 1, , , , : , , , : , , , : , , , : , , , : , , Ruth 1,2 28 I Kings 1, , ,4 29 3, ,18 30 I Sam. 1,2 30 5, , ,8

31 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 31 Study to show thyself approved, rightly dividing the Word of God. This schedule is arranged as following: Two Old Testament chapters every day One Poetry chapter each weekday One New Testament chapter each weekday Print, cut and separate them as bookmarks to help keep your place in each section of your Bible. NEW TESTAMENT POETRY OLD TESTAMENT July August September July August September July August September 3 Rom Cor. 3 1 Phil. 1 3 Ps. 119: Psalm Prov. 4 1 I Chr. 21,22 1 Neh. 7,8 1 Isa. 3, : ,24 2 9,10 2 5, : , ,12 3 7,8 6 I Cor : , , : Esth. 1,2 5 11, Col Chr. 1,2 6 3,4 6 13, : ,4 7 5,6 7 15, : ,6 8 7,8 8 17, : ,8 9 9, , : ,10 10 Job 1, , : , , , I Thess , , , , , , Gal , , , , , , , , , , , , Thess , , , , , , , , , Eph , , , I Tim , , , Cor , , , Ezra 1, , , Prov , , , , , , , , , , , ,58 29 Neh. 1, , , , , , ,6 31 Isa. 1,2 October November December October November December October November December 2 I Tim. 6 1 James 1 1 Rev. 2 2 Prov Song 4 1 Isa. 63,64 1 Ezek. 1,2 1 Hos. 1,2 3 2 Tim ,66 2 3,4 2 3, Jer. 1,2 3 5,6 3 5, ,4 4 7,8 4 7, ,6 5 9,10 5 9, ,8 6 11, ,12 9 Titus 1 8 I Pet , , , , ,16 8 Joel Eccles , ,18 9 Amos 1,2 12 Philemon , , ,4 13 Heb , , , , , Pet , ,26 13 Obadiah , ,28 14 Jonah 1, , , , , ,32 16 Mic. 1, I John , , , , , , ,38 19 Nah , ,40 20 Hab , ,42 21 Zech , ,44 22 Hag. 1, John Song , ,46 23 Zech. 1, John , , , Jude ,46 25 Dan. 1,2 25 5, Rev , ,4 26 7, , ,6 27 9, , , ,12 29 Lam. 1,2 29 9, , , ,12 30 Mal. 1, ,4

32 December 2018 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 32 CHURCH ADDRESS AND CONTACT INFORMATION 3375 Church Lane, Duluth GA Contact: Rita Bowens, Office Office Hours: Monday Friday 9:00am-5:00pm fbcduluth@att.net Website: FBC LEADERSHIP FBC ASSOCIATE MINISTERS Rev. Ken Blacknell Rev. Garfield Garner Rev. Eugene Graves Min. Shurron Green Rev. Timothy Twyman Min. Floyd Williams Rev. Stan Williams Rev. Alton Wilson COMMUNICATIONS LEADERS Louie Malone, President Terrill Tarver, Vice President Shatina Patterson, Secretary Kelly Wilson, Assistant Secretary Christine Smith, Treasurer Hyacinth Chung, Chaplain Harold Mitchell, Deacon Advisor FBC MINISTERS OF EVANGELISM Min. Karen Blacknell Min. Amelia Brown Evg. Geneva Burse Evg. Karen DeLee Min. Roslyn Long Evg. Valerie Montaque Evg. Ruthell Morris Evg. Kimberly Rogers Min. Nicole Walker Min. Barbara Williams Evg. Deloris Williams NEWSLETTER STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Paulette Tapp Editor/Proofreader: Christine Smith Graphic Designer: Paulette Tapp Photographer: Louie Malone Photographer: Shirley Price Publisher/Webmaster: Terrill Tarver Friendship Baptist Church has a newly-enhanced website to provide greater communication across all FBC Ministries. The address has not changed. Improvements are ongoing. Feedback can be provided to the Communications Ministry at tag49llm@aol.com. SUBSCRIBE today at: Articles for next month s newsletter are due Friday, January 4, 2018.