Today s News. First Baptist Church Fuquay-Varina Sunday June 4, Editor s Note. Pancakes, Fellowship, and Fundraising. Page 1

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "Today s News. First Baptist Church Fuquay-Varina Sunday June 4, Editor s Note. Pancakes, Fellowship, and Fundraising. Page 1"

Allison Houston
5 years ago
Views:

Today s News Editor s Note Are you a Microwave Christian? We live in a society that likes and expects everything to happen quickly. But as a Christian, do you lump your spirituality in this scenario?

45 minutes in Sunday school and 60 minutes in bible study yields much needed spiritual preparation for warding off the enemy. As Min.

Don t be a microwave Christian. Don t be so quick to discount the importance of dedicating time to the Lord. Get in that war room.

1 Today s News Editor s Note Are you a Microwave Christian? We live in a society that likes and expects everything to happen quickly. But as a Christian, do you lump your spirituality in this scenario? It takes time to develop and grow your muscles. 60 minutes in the gym equates to 60 minutes of better health. The same concept is applied when it comes to your spiritual muscles. 45 minutes in Sunday school and 60 minutes in bible study yields much needed spiritual preparation for warding off the enemy. As Min. Arnetta Robinson taught in her Sunday school class on April 23 rd, the enemy is out to kill, steal, and destroy us. So it is up to you to put in the time and make God your priority. Don t be a microwave Christian. Don t be so quick to discount the importance of dedicating time to the Lord. Get in that war room. Make going to Sunday school and bible study just as important as eating and breathing. Pancakes, Fellowship, and Fundraising On April 1st, The Mason Jar Tavern on Main Street in Fuquay- Varina was the place to be. The Family and Community Empowerment Services (FACES formerly known as SWFCA) held their annual Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser. Who could resist? The warm, inviting smile of Mrs. Tammy Norton, Chair of the FACES Board greeted everyone at the door. You began to think it s all over, but the secret weapons were busily scurrying around seating patrons, taking orders, serving, and simply making sure everyone received some of the biggest pancakes I d ever seen along with a huge dose of southern hospitality. Fabulous right? But it goes so much deeper than that. FACES is us. Their slogan reads, Local people helping local people. The volunteers that morning worked with smiles on their faces that raised over $3, Those funds will probably touch the lives of somebody that we know and love. We appreciate our First Baptist FACES representatives First Lady Eva Lowery and Deaconess Lula Davis, but there is so much more work to be done. Why not become a volunteer, become a financial supporter, or ask your friends to help? Contact FACES at (919) or exec@faces-cares.org. Romans 8:31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Harriett Wilson Editor Send comments, questions, and articles to HarriettLeeWilson@yahoo.com Table of Contents Page 2 Party Over Here (1st Sundays) Page 3 Resurrection Day Page 4 The Big Hunt Page 5 A Reason to Smile, Pastor s Supporting Cast, and Step in the Right Direction Page 6 FACES Musicfest Mother s Day Activities Page 8 Balloon Fest Fundraiser May 19th Health Fair Mrs. Tammy Norton, Deaconess Lula Davis, and First Lady Eva Lowery Mrs. Norton and Jonathan Pierce, The Mason Jar Tavern Owner Alana Johnson and Youth Ministry Leader Cassaundra McDowell enthusiastically volunteer their service to FACES Page 1

Party Over Here No special invitation is ever required for admission to FBC.

The choir was dressed the part for an all-white party and they partied hard. Actually, the party was popping!

Praising isn t nothing but a party. So the next time you feel like getting dressed up to party hard, think about doing it for the Lord.

2 Party Over Here No special invitation is ever required for admission to FBC. On April 2nd, 2017 the doors of the church were open like every first Sunday, Communion Sunday. The choir was dressed the part for an all-white party and they partied hard. Actually, the party was popping! It just happened to be for the celebration of the Lord s Supper. It was absolutely amazing. Just look at the photos. Let s have a quick conversation. Praising isn t nothing but a party. So the next time you feel like getting dressed up to party hard, think about doing it for the Lord. Isn t the church house the best place to do it? Sometimes you just have to shout. Let the Holy Spirit have control. Don t apologize for letting it out. Lastly, we need to thank God for our musicians. It has truly been a trying road the past couple of years for the music ministry, but it has survived. The April 2 nd supporting music proved We don t need no DJ. Trust in God. Won t He do it? Page 2

Resurrection Day by Jovita Simons Holy Week was long, but the culmination of services was spectacular. Sunday morning celebration at FBC began in spirited song.

Pastor Lowery s announcement that Triple G (God s Great Gift) would be performing a liturgical dance did not prepare the congregation for the blessing of the very moving dance that began with the

path that Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion).

3 Resurrection Day by Jovita Simons Holy Week was long, but the culmination of services was spectacular. Sunday morning celebration at FBC began in spirited song. The church was filled with Easter lilies and all came dressed in their Sunday Best. Pastor Lowery s announcement that Triple G (God s Great Gift) would be performing a liturgical dance did not prepare the congregation for the blessing of the very moving dance that began with the walk of Jesus on the Via Dolorosa (The Via Dolorosa Latin: "Way of Grief," "Way of Sorrow," "Way of Suffering" or simply "Painful Way is a street within the Old City of Jerusalem, believed to be the path that Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion). There was a hush amongst the congregation as they watched Jesus played by Carlton Burt drag the enormous cross while being beaten by a centurion soldier played by Cameron Dixon. The sounds of a whip snapped in the air and the moans from Jesus could be heard. Jesus expelled His final words, It is finished. As Jesus was taken away, members of Triple G entered the sanctuary and began a dance that symbolized those moments in Christian history. They danced to the celebration and glorification of the sacrifice that was made. Their marvelous choreography and passion shown piqued our emotions. Pastor Lowery s sermon, Had Jesus Not Risen, Then What? was moving and challenged us to answer that question. His sermon was based on the scriptures 1Corinthians 15: Simply put, if Jesus had not risen, our preaching would be in vain, our faith would be useless, we would bear false witness, we would continue to live in sin, death would have dominion, and there would be no hope for the future. But the tomb is empty! Jesus has risen! Carlton Burt and members of Triple G (Sakiyha Richardson, Zahnya Palmer, and Kaitlyn Street) Page 3

The Big Hunt All-hands were on deck to get breakfast served. The ladies did not mind serving the children.

Sister Katrina Crosby, Christian Education Ministry Leader took time to do the most important step of the entire prehunt procedures; explanation of

All that money spent on buying baskets, cards, candy, and dying eggs is great for the economy.

resurrection of Jesus Christ. With the lesson under their belt, tummies full, baskets in hand, it was time to have some crazy fun. The big hunt was on!

4 The Big Hunt All-hands were on deck to get breakfast served. The ladies did not mind serving the children. Miraculously the children were very orderly and patient even with all the anticipation of the big hunt. Sister Katrina Crosby, Christian Education Ministry Leader took time to do the most important step of the entire prehunt procedures; explanation of what the day was really about. It s nice to get a pretty new dress, hair ribbons, suit and ties. All that money spent on buying baskets, cards, candy, and dying eggs is great for the economy. But at the end of the day, the ministry wanted the kids to know that it s not about the bunny, it s about the lamb, the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. With the lesson under their belt, tummies full, baskets in hand, it was time to have some crazy fun. The big hunt was on! Plastic, silver, and gold eggs. Each egg promised something good; cash, Bojangles, McDonald s, or candy. Oh, to be a kid for only a day. On the other hand, there were sugar rushes to deal with for days to come that I m grateful not to have had to manage. Sister Twyla Covington aka The Jimmy Dean Lady gets together the last of the sausage Run kids run! Page 4

A Reason to Smile Sister Vanessa McClain shyly smiles as she receives her certificate of completion of the newcomers class. We see you Sis. McClain. You are officially counted in FBC numbers.

A pastor s cast is in place to protect and support, developing an environment where a pastor can grow and thrive.

Without a doubt, a pastor will get burned out if expected to be all things to all people.

They have been planted in the flock to protect and support him, making him a more stable leader and more effective in serving the church.

5 A Reason to Smile Sister Vanessa McClain shyly smiles as she receives her certificate of completion of the newcomers class. We see you Sis. McClain. You are officially counted in FBC numbers. Pastor s Supporting Cast Making it all come together. That is a major goal of any supporting cast. A pastor s cast is in place to protect and support, developing an environment where a pastor can grow and thrive. Fortunately for Pastor Lowery, his cast has increased tremendously in the last couple of years. They can be spotted here, there, everywhere. Without a doubt, a pastor will get burned out if expected to be all things to all people. Thankfully, FBC s associate ministers staff is healthy in numbers and possess a multitude of abilities and gifts. They are able to help Pastor Lowery work through church issues with love and grace. They have been planted in the flock to protect and support him, making him a more stable leader and more effective in serving the church. So not only is Pastor Lowery blessed to have his supporting cast, FBC is blessed. Lets not take them for granted. Encourage their efforts. They work to make FBC greater. Deacon Randy Wilson, Sis. McClain, and Pastor Lowery Step in the Right Direction Looking for a way to fellowship and get a few of the recommended healthy steps a day? There s plenty of room on the FBC Walking Club. Text Sis. Melissa Barbee at (919) for information to a fun way to walk to a fitter you. Ministers Charlene Magnum, Arnetta Robinson, Cassandra Newkirk, Rev. Debra McClain, and Rev. Dr. Brian Wright Rev. McClain s first appearance in the pulpit with Pastor Lowery Page 5

FACES Musicfest Contribution by Deaconess Lula Davis FBC had a large number of supports in attendance at

The event was a variety show which featured talented performers throughout the community.

Additionally, Commissioner Bill Harris played a smooth trumpet rendition Because of Who You Are.

00 that evening which will greatly impact their ability to help those in need.

Commissioner Bill Harris, keyboardist EJ Stewart, Brandon Thomas, and Deaconess Sandra Dunn Mother s Day

6 FACES Musicfest Contribution by Deaconess Lula Davis FBC had a large number of supports in attendance at the FACES Musicfest held on May 5, 2017 at Fuquay Varina United Methodist Church. The event was a variety show which featured talented performers throughout the community. FBC received raving compliments for our two soloists. Additionally, Commissioner Bill Harris played a smooth trumpet rendition Because of Who You Are. The audience thoroughly enjoyed the collaboration of different music styles. FACES raised $1, that evening which will greatly impact their ability to help those in need. They thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support. Commissioner Bill Harris, keyboardist EJ Stewart, Brandon Thomas, and Deaconess Sandra Dunn Mother s Day Activities Proverbs 31:28 Her children arise and call her blessed Men s Fellowship members Brothers Robert Lueck and Archie Gramble readily give out beautiful roses and Sister Grimes gratefully accepts Deaconesses Lula Davis and Lucy Monds make the roses look even lovelier Page 6

7 Sis. Ruby Newkirk feeling happy and blessed to be at her church home with family Church secretary Ronda Burt delivered the personal acknowledgement of First Lady Eva Lowery for the day by Rev. McClain and family Muffin plus rose equals happy mom Sis. Vanessa McClain Muffins for Moms - The Youth Ministry wrapped muffins from The Sticky Bun; a terrific and delicious idea. Page 7

The idea to use the space to raise funds really took off after Trustee Marion

opportunity to raise funds. Was it possible?

Trustee Tucker got to work organizing the event.

Although it was a hot May weekend, the volunteers stayed dedicated to the task.

Not only did the church raise over $1,000.

Trustee Charlene Burrell Deaconess Lula Davis stated, It was a really good

Even members not scheduled to work a shift, came to fellowship with those who were.

8 Balloon Fest Fundraiser The brand spanking new parking lot was put to good use over the Memorial Day weekend. It all began with a discussion between the trustees. The idea to use the space to raise funds really took off after Trustee Marion Tucker received personal phone calls from other church members questioning the opportunity to raise funds. Was it possible? Could the last minute idea really be pulled off? Trustee Tucker got to work organizing the event. A call went out to the congregation and they answered. Although it was a hot May weekend, the volunteers stayed dedicated to the task. It was hard work, but it was all worth it. Actually the success was two-fold. Not only did the church raise over $1,000.00, the occasion afforded time for members to bond. Trustee Charlene Burrell Deaconess Lula Davis stated, It was a really good fellowship for members of the church. Even members not scheduled to work a shift, came to fellowship with those who were. Add some watermelon on Sunday afternoon compliments of Deacon Andy Davis and it made the setting even more enjoyable. Nothing compares to church family hanging out. Left - Ready to go immediately after service Right - Early morning shift volunteers with fresh smiles Photo courtesy of Rev. Debra McClain May 20th Health Fair Photos courtesy of Melissa Barbee Page 8

Today s News. First Baptist Church Fuquay-Varina Sunday January 8, Editor s Note. Sheep Rewarded for Following the Shepherd.

Today s News. First Baptist Church Fuquay-Varina Sunday January 8, Editor s Note. Sheep Rewarded for Following the Shepherd. Today s News Editor s Note The Good Stuff Do you ever wonder if there is some good still left in the world? Well let me tune you in on a little secret. Not only is there still some, but it can be found