VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 AUGUST 2016

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1 3375 Church Lane Duluth GA Rev. Ronald L. Bowens, Pastor VOLUME 4 ISSUE 1 AUGUST 2016 September 5 Labor Day Holiday Office Closed September 10 Next Defensive Driving Class September 17 Walk-A-Thon INSIDE THIS ISSUE FBC 2016 Graduates... Page 2 Hymn of the Month... Page 3 Spotlight on Ministry... Page 4 Back-to-School Event... Page 7 Youth Church... Page 9 Women s Ministry... Page 13 Senior s Ministry... Page 16 Sunday School... Page 18 Opportunities to Serve... Page 19 Recap Golf Outing... Page 20 Defensive Driving Course... Page Reasons to Vote... Page 23 FBC MISSION STATEMENT To Exalt the Savior To Equip the Saint To Evangelize the Sinner Many of God s children need an attitude adjustment. There is so much negativity in the world that we get caught up in the middle of it. We develop a negative attitude about nearly everything. When we encounter a problem or a troublesome situation, we immediately see only the bad in it and don t bother to look for the good. There has to be some good in it for you if you are a child of God. Paul, in Romans 8:28, speaks to born again Christians on this wise, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV) So when we encounter a situation or troubling problem, we should look for the good in it. We should, likewise, look for God working in the midst of it. Once you see the good, you should praise Him and count your blessings. A good example of this is what happened to me on Monday, August, 8, I know you heard that the Delta Airlines computers went down that day and planes were halted everywhere. My scheduled flight to Columbus, OH was scheduled for 10:15 am. I arrived at the airport two hours early. I was thanking God when I saw on my ticket TSA Pre-check, which meant I wouldn t have to go through the hassle of a long line, remove my shoes, unpack my computer, etc. Once I got to the gate, however, that s when my trouble began. The plane had been delayed two hours. When it was almost noon and time to begin boarding, according to the new time, the plane was delayed another two hours. There was no plane at the gate, but after about an hour, a plane arrived. Surely that was a good sign. It appeared to be a good sign. However, we couldn t board until they had located another pilot, co-pilot and crew. When finally a crew arrived, to the sound of loud applause, we still had to wait for a pilot and co-pilot. After a while, a pilot arrived and the applause erupted again. We still couldn t board until a co-pilot arrived and was on the plane. It took another half hour for them to find a co-pilot. We waited three more hours from the last delay, and finally took off around 5 o clock, nearly 9 hours from the time I first got to the airport. The flight to Columbus was only one hour and five minutes. I was tired, angry and, basically, ready to complain to anybody that would listen. That was then. My attitude changed the next morning when the meeting started--in walked a member of my management team. She had been at the airport for 22 hours before she could get a flight out! On top of that, the airline had lost her luggage. She had to go buy clothes for the next two days of the meetings. I looked at my situation, and then took another look. Nine hours wasn t so bad after all. I had my luggage and I was safe. After an attitude adjustment, I began to count my blessing. Every time somebody asked me how I was doing, I said I am blessed out of my boots. In these perilous times in which we live, we should take the Apostle Paul s advice to the Philippian church, Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely. Whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Phil. 4:8). Count your blessings and give God the glory. Rev. Garfield Garner

2 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 2 FBC 2016 GRADUATES! High School: Michael Ball Ann-Marie Boyd Daijah Brown Armani Goss Bria Haynes Patrick Hubbard Morgan Lanier Kejon Lowe Michal Patterson Ethan Rice Tawnecia Rush Keosha Swinney Terrenz Tarver Carlos Wade Asia Williams Brianna Wynter College: Kwesi Abakah Taylor Bailey Ziah Dorsey Nariah Francis Octavia Greer Krystina Leverett Chelsea Mason Matthew Poole Breyuana Smith Clifford Watkins Taryn Wilson

3 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 3 Hymn of the Month Blessed Assurance Blessed Assurance, a well-known Christian hymn, was written in 1873 by Fanny Crosby who was a blind hymn writer. It was told that Fanny Crosby was visiting her friend, Phoebe Knapp, who was having a large pipe organ installed in her home. Since the organ was incomplete, she started playing a new melody she had just composed on the piano. Mrs. Knapp then asked Ms. Crosby, What do you think the tune says? Without missing a beat, Ms. Crosby responded Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine. The hymn appeared in the July 1873 issue of Palmers Guide to Holiness and Revival Miscellany, which was a magazine printed by Dr. and Mrs. W. C. Palmer of 14 Bible House, New York City. This publication helped to popularize the song which became one of the most beloved hymns of all time. This song reflects Fanny Crosby s walk of faith as expressed in Philippians 1:21 by the apostle Paul, For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (KJV) and is also the interpretation of Hebrews 10:22, " Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." (KJV) Verse One Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. Refrain This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long; this is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. (Refrain) Verse Two Perfect submission, perfect delight! Visions of rapture now burst on my sight; Angels descending bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love. (Refrain) Verse Three Perfect submission, all is at rest! I in my Savior am happy and blessed, Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. (Refrain) Submitted by Hyacinth Chung

4 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 4 SPOTLIGHT ON MINISTRY OUTREACH MINISTRY One Body Saved To Serve Ten Fun Facts about the Outreach Ministry 1. The Outreach Ministry s primary mission is to spread and share the love of God outside the church walls by serving others. 2. The Outreach Ministry provides fresh produce, meat and other items to over 300 families each month. 3. The Outreach Ministry opens the doors to the Outreach Center three days a week to provide food, small home goods and appliances to anyone in need. 4. The Outreach Ministry provides book bags filled with school supplies each year to over 200 students--pre-k to College (see this year s response in this newsletter). 5. The Outreach Ministry supports Foster Families by providing a monthly meal and prayer (right to their home). 6. The Outreach Ministry supports orphaned children in Liberia and Haiti. 7. The Outreach Ministry designs and prints birthday and anniversary cards to be given out on the first Sunday of every month. 8. The Outreach Ministry hosts the annual Thanksgiving Eve Service and Lunch. 9. The Outreach Ministry hosts the weekly Mid-week Service at noon every Wednesday. 10. The Outreach Ministry hosts the annual Walk-A-Thon to support our many local and global outreach missions programs. Please support the Outreach Ministry by donating to or participating in the 7 th Annual Walk-A-Thon to be held this year on Saturday, September 17 th (see next page for more information).

5 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 5 Grab your walking shoes and get ready to walk in the Spirit for FBC MISSIONS OUTREACH! 7 TH ANNUAL 5K/WALK-A-THON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, :00 A.M. 9:30 A.M. SHORTY HOWELL PARK 2750 PLEASANT HILL ROAD DULUTH, GA You may print and complete the registration form provided in this newsletter or pick up a form in the Fellowship Hall or from one of the contacts listed below: Sis. Lakeesha Sis. Catherine Sis. Diana We encourage you to begin contacting possible sponsors to assist you in this worthwhile effort. Your sponsors will have two (2) sponsorship options: Option 1 - Pledge a $5 or more donation Option 2 - Pledge a $ per mile donation Please return completed forms and donations by Wednesday, September 14 th to the Church Office or to one of the contacts listed above. Walk-in registrations on the day of the event are also welcome. Donations may also be submitted via the church s offering envelope by indicating Walk-A-Thon on the line provided for Other. PROCEEDS SUPPORT OUR LOCAL AND GLOBAL OUTREACH EFFORTS

6 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 6 Deadline: September 14, 2016 Make checks payable to: Friendship Baptist Church 3375 Church Lane, Duluth GA Rev. Ronald L. Bowens, Pastor 7 TH ANNUAL 5K / WALK-A-THON SEPTEMBER 17, 8:00AM SHORTY HOWELL PARK, DULUTH GA PLEDGE SHEET Name: (Please Print Clearly) Phone and The following persons have donated money in support of my Missions Walk: Name $5 or more $ Per Mile Sheet may be duplicated as needed

7 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 7 BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT The Outreach Ministry s Annual Back-to-School Event was held on Saturday, July 16 th, from 9:30 am-12:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall. Over 220 backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to students in need from pre-k to high school. In addition to the school supplies, the students were treated to lunch, a bible quiz with prizes and a visit from the local Fire Department. The Outreach Ministry would like to thank the many volunteers and those who donated school supplies. Your assistance went a long way in helping our students get ready for a successful school year. Sis. Angela Campbell leads in this effort and can be reached at if you would like more information. For Everyone s Contribution!...more next page

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9 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 9 Get the word out! Tell all your friends and fellow youth members that Youth Church is happening at Friendship Baptist Church! Get excited about Christ! Get ready to praise! Get ready to worship! Services are held on the 1 st and 3 rd Sundays during our regular 7:30 am and 11:00 am worship hours in the Heritage Church, located across the parking lot near the main entrance of the church. These services are for youth between the ages of 11 and 19 (middle and high school ages). Rev. Stanley and Minister Barbara Williams are the leaders of the Youth Church and are excited about their new assignment from the Lord. They are very grateful to Pastor Bowens for trusting them with such an awesome ministry. Rev. Williams served as Youth Pastor at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Alexandria, VA from , and taught youth Sunday School classes for many years. Minister Barbara Williams has also served the youth in various roles as well, to include teaching youth Sunday School classes for over 15 years. They understand how to reach the youth with creative teaching and preaching (in a non-traditional way). They involve the youth in their messages while teaching and preaching. The youth are allowed to ask questions pertaining to the message after each lesson on Sundays. They want to prepare the youth for adult church by allowing them to participate in the services. The youth will be leading worship, making announcements, ushering, playing musical instruments, singing on the youth praise team, and participating in illustrations during Sunday morning messages. Youth Church is off to a great start and the youth are excited about having a non-traditional worship service. The sermons will be on topics such as Anger, Peer Pressure, Bullying, Self-Esteem, Obedience to God and Parents, and many other topics that are relevant to the youth. Rev. Stan and Minister Barbara are making themselves available to the youth for counseling, and or any concerns the youth may have throughout the week. They will have office hours as needed for the youth inside the Heritage Church. The youth services will be lively, uplifting, exciting, inspiring, compelling, but most importantly, the worship services will be enriching. They want our young people to grow stronger in their faith to be bold ambassadors for Christ and to foremost live a life that pleases the Lord. The services will always be in line with the Friendship Baptist Church mission statement, Exalt the Savior, Equip the Saint, and Evangelize the Sinner!! The objective of the Youth Ministry: Not One Child Unlearned, Unloved and Unsaved, Not One.

10 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 10 Youth Church Observation: On July 17 th, 2016, I was blessed with the privilege to sit in on the second Youth Service for the month. The order of service is in line with the Adult Ministry but takes on a different format to meet the needs of the children. At first, it was like the first day of school, some timid faces looking down, some scared to acknowledge the kid next to them, so in order to put distance between the unknown, they would skip a seat, or an entire row and, of course, there is always a class clown in the group. Rev. Stanley Williams was the moderator for the morning, at 7:30 a.m. There was call to worship with only 7 children in attendance; by 7:45 a.m., the count was up to 18 and later totaled 22 children and 6 adults. Two of our 11-year old young ladies read the scripture from Psalm 134. Then, Rev. Stan had an open forum as a form of ice-breaker where he asked the kids to tell the number of books in the bible and the first book of the old and new testaments. The real ice-breaker came during fellowship with each other. The youth were encouraged to get out of their seats, shake each other s hands and introduce themselves. At first, it was like pulling teeth, but then it got better as they and started making new acquaintances. The wanted to jump up and participate. I felt left introduce myself and be their friend, too, but I space and keep my distance, flashing an ever so often. The big kid in me wanted to jump up and participate. I felt left out-- I wanted to introduce myself and be their friend, too warmed to the idea big kid in me out-- I wanted to had to respect their encouraging smile By now they were more relaxed and ready to be ministered to. Minister Barbara Williams brought the word from Genesis 4:1-16. The message was titled, The Dangers of Unresolved Anger (and what a message that was). She spoke about anger and what to do with your anger. She referenced Cain and Abel s relationship with God and Cain s rejection by God. She touched on rejection and how it causes anger and bitterness. She cautioned of our three enemies-- Satan, Flesh and the World. She did an illustration with some of the kids blowing up balloons, showing how anger at its maximum explodes, just as the balloon pops when it reaches it maximum capacity. The message closed out with forgiveness and how it diffuses anger and alleviates some health issues. After the message, there was an open dialogue with the kids; they were free to ask questions about the message, and quite a few had questions and asked how to resolve issues. I was in awe at the innocence of these kids and their thirst to learn at their level. Then I had my turn, the adults were given a few minutes to encourage the young people and letting them know that we are there for them as well. I encourage all parents to address this ministry with their young ones, encouraging them to attend and invite their friends as well. Thank you Pastor Bowens for allowing Rev. and Min. Williams to pilot the Youth Ministry and we will remain prayerful that participation in this ministry will take our younger generation to a whole new level in Christ. Reported by Hyacinth Chung

11 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 11 CHILDREN S CHURCH Children s Church for ages 4-10 is undergoing reorganization and will reopen soon. We ask for your prayers, patience and support during this process. The Nursery for ages six months to three years old will remain open during the 7:30 am and 11:00 am services.

12 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 12 HEALTH MINISTRY August is National Immunization Awareness Month Please follow up with childhood immunizations just in time for school! Also, Walgreens in Duluth (and other locations) provides Pneumonia and Shingles vaccine for adults. Please continue to watch for announcements for the next Health and Fitness Day coming soon! For more information, please contact Vickie Perry at or by to: perryvgperry@yahoo.com. Adults with Diabetes The American Diabetes Association and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend that people with diabetes get at least 150 minutes per week of exercise. That s about 30 minutes, 5 days per week. They also recommend that people with diabetes do four types of exercise training: 1. Aerobic exercise exercises that cause you to breathe harder, i.e., walking, riding a bicycle or dancing. Should be done at least 3 days per week. 2. Strength training exercise that stress your muscles, i.e., lifting free weights or doing exercise that use your own body weight like wall-pushups or standing up out of your chair, sitting back down and standing up again. Should be done 2 to 3 days per week. 3. Flexibility stretching your muscles; may help decrease risk of injury. Should be done daily. 4. Balance training helps you feel steady on your fee; may reduce your risk of falls, i.e., walking heel to toe in a straight line, balancing on one foot at a time. Should be done daily. If you have pain or physical limitations, you may need to start small with exercise. Ideas for exercise if you have pain or physical limitations include water aerobics and chair exercises. When we move in the water, we feel lighter than when we are on land. Chair exercises can be a great way to get your heart rate up without having to stress your lower body. No matter your age or how long it has been since you were diagnosed with diabetes, you will want to talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. Remember, because exercise helps your body use insulin, your blood sugar can change during and after exercise. It will be important to check your blood sugar regularly, and your doctor may wish to make changes to your medications. Adding an extra lap around the block doesn t require a trip to your doctor, but when you are ready to really get moving, you should have the conversation with your doctor first. Exercise might seem like one more thing on your to-do list, but it can actually really help you physically and mentally. Over time, exercise may actually help reduce pain and make moving easier. Start by talking to your doctor! The benefits are waiting for you! FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM AND FITNESS CENTER HOURS OF OPERATION: Mornings Monday Friday 9:00 am 12:00 noon Afternoons Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday (Closed Wednesday afternoons) 4:00 pm 8:00 pm

13 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 13 WOMEN S MINISTRY Women of God Pulling Together 2016 The FBC Women's Ministry has seen women coming together praying and growing together like never before. We meet every second Saturday of the month with intercessory prayer from 8:30 am to 9:00 am and fun and fellowship from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. This year the Women s Ministry will learn from the women of the Bible where our very own FBC women will portray in character these Royal Women (some not so) of the Old and New Testaments (see pictures and the list below of the FBC women and who they portrayed for the first half of the year). In August, we will hear from Fleeting Voices: Obscure Women of the Bible and their unlikely impact. It has truly been a blessing and a wonderful way in learning more about all the women of the Bible. It is not too late to get involved. We want you and we need you! You will be a blessing and you will be blessed! In addition to our monthly meeting, there are several committees and arms of the ministry that are exciting to be a part of, such as "Creative Learning," which meets every Saturday between 11:30 am and 2:00 pm (except holiday weekends) teaching the ladies how to sew, knit, crochet, make jewelry, scrapbook, Christmas wreaths, you name it! Sis. Sharon Wilson and Sis. Pat Malone are our servant leaders. The ministry also makes special prayer shawls for FBC members who have lost loved ones. This God-idea has blessed a lot of our members thus far. If you are interested in Creative Learning, please contact Sharon Wilson at Furthermore, once a year, the Women s Ministry spearheads and supports a luncheon for widows. We are honored to have Pastor Bowens come to share words of wisdom to all the widows and widowers. Watch for the day and time in the church bulletin. Last, but not least, during the Christmas season, the ministry reaches out to the nursing home for visitation and gift giving. God has truly knitted us together, and we are Women of God pulling together that is our focus and theme for Come join us each and every month for breakfast, and taste and see that the Lord is good and bring a friend. You ll be glad you did! For more information about the Women s Ministry, please contact Min. Roslyn Long at February 13, 2016 Founding Mothers: Eve - Christine Smith Job's wife - Betty McGarity Sarah - Kelly Thomas Hagar - Vanessa Thomas Keturah - Penny Poole Rebekah - Victoria Jones Leah Evangelist D. Jackson Rachel - Nita Owens March 12, 2016 Women of Courage: Jochebed - Trudy Jackson Deborah - Leone Wilmont Jael - LaVonna Groce Walking Wounded: Dinah Hazel Franklin Jephthan's daughter Min. Roslyn Long Tamar - Pam Stodghill [Continued on the next page]

14 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 14 April 9, 2016 The Chosen - Five Women Whose Names Appear in the Genealogy of Jesus: Tamar - Mary Blackburn Rahab - Kathy Saunders Ruth - Tonia Simmons Bathsheba - Christine Smith Mary - Vanessa Pratt The Prophets - Women Who Served as God's Messengers: Miriam - Kimberly Rogers Huldah - Sonia Bacon Anna - Mother G. Baker May 14, 2016 Royalty - Seven Royal Women of the Old Testament: Pharaoh's daughter - Mother Dorothy Blagmon Queen of Sheba - Hazel Franklin Vashti - Thelma Matthews Esther - Mother Pearl Coles Merab - Venda Young Michal - Kay Vandiver Abigail - Shirley Sharp June 11, 2016 Disappointed Dreamers Women Who Discovered the Superiority of God s Plans: Hannah - Theressa Goodman Elizabeth - Sonia Bacon Three Women Who Embraced Evil: Jezebel - Dale Brooks Athaliah - Brittany Williams Herodias - Melissa Brock July 9, 2016 Seven Women - The Choices They Made and The Price They Paid: Lot s wife - HaLynn Brown Lot's daughter - Min. Nicole Brown Delilah - Glenda Franklin Maacah - Vickie Perry Gomer - Cecelia Crawford Sapphira - Annie Williams [Continued on the next page]

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16 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 16 SENIOR S MINISTRY O ur Purpose: To Strengthen, Encourage and Nurture seniors 55+ at Friendship Baptist Church and the community with Tender Loving Care and to obey and proclaim Jesus Christ. O ur Mission Statement: That we might exemplify the Fruit of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 O ur Scripture: "The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; to show that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him." Psalm 92:12-15 Leaders serving since January 2014: Rev. Eugene B. Graves, Chairperson Jackie Leverette, Deacon assigned Brenda J. Graves, Secretary Saturday, June 25, 2016, was a day filled with sunshine, fellowship and fun for the FBC Seniors Ministry. Thirty nine seniors, including family and friends spent the day in Chattanooga, TN, enjoying various activities. Some cruised the Tennessee River while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch. Others were entertained at the IMAX Theater with its larger-than-life 3D images. A few of our travelers spent time at the Chattanooga Aquarium where they were amazed by freshwater fish and animals, while others jumped on the shuttle heading to the Northshore where they were able to gaze at the picturesque view of the walking bridge that crosses the river, enjoy a short walk through the park, and a few even enjoyed a ride on the merry-go-round before grabbing a bite to eat at the Beast and Barrel Restaurant. No matter what activity was chosen, everyone had a wonderful time. The ministry expressed appreciation to all who shared in this day. To God be the Glory for the great thing He has done! For more information, contact Cheryl Alford at [Continued on the next page]

17 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 17 To God be the Glory!

18 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 18 9:45 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES IN THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER Class Name 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 SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES IN THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE MAIN BUILDING The Nursery (3 months-2 years old) Beginner s (3-4 year olds) Primary (K-2 nd Grade) Juniors (3 rd -5 th Grade) Charlene Benn Superintendent cbenn527@gmail.com Dorian Rogers Assistant Superintendent 4integrityauto@gmail.com

19 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 19 OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE WEEKLY Worship Services Sunday 7:30 & 11:00 am Sanctuary Youth Church Sunday (1 st & 3 rd ) 7:30 & 11:00 am Heritage Church Sunday School (Adults/Teens) 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 Faith Evangelism Monday 7:00 pm Fellowship Hall Deacon s Meeting Tuesday (1 st & 3 rd ) 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 Bible Study Wednesday 7:45 pm Lower Level Main Building MasterLife1 Class Thursday 7:00 pm Room 102 Lower Level Main Bldg Marriage Class Thursday 7:00 pm Room 201 Lower Level Main Bldg MONTHLY Education Ministry 2 nd Monday 7:00 pm Room 303 Lower Level Main Bldg Usher Ministry 1 st Tuesday 7:00 pm Room 135 Family Life Center Men s Ministry 1 st Saturday 7:30 am TBA Monthly Media Ministry 1 st Saturday 9:30 am Room 130 Family Life Center Mother s Ministry 1 st Saturday 9:30 am Room 135 Family Life Center Minister s Ministry 1 st Saturday 3:00 pm Room 232 Family Life Center Women s Ministry 2 nd Saturday 9:00 am Fellowship Hall Money Matters 2 nd Saturday 11:30 am Fellowship Hall Male Chorus Preparation 2 nd & 4 th Saturday 9:30 am Sanctuary Health Ministry 2 nd Saturday 11:00 am Room 303 Lower Level Main Bldg Outreach Ministry 3 rd Saturday 9:00 am Fellowship Hall Shepherd s Care 3 rd Saturday 10:00 am Room 202 Lower Level Main Bldg Communication s Ministry 3 rd Saturday 11:00 am Room 135 Family Life Center Marriage Ministry 3 rd Saturday 5:00 pm Room 239 Family Life Center Senior s Ministry 4 th Saturday 11:00 am Fellowship Hall Single s Ministry 4 th Saturday 12:30 pm Lower Level Heritage Church Prison Ministry Gospel Choir Preparation Youth Choir Preparation See Quarterly Calendar SPECIAL MONTHLY SERVICES Holy Communion 1 st Sunday 7:30 & 11:00 am Sanctuary Baptism 3 rd Sunday 11:00 am Sanctuary Baby Dedications 4th Sunday 7:30 & 11:00am Sanctuary

20 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 20 GOLF OUTING LEGACY GOLF COURSE, BUFORD GA Friendship Baptist Church held its 8 th Annual Golf Outing on June 11, 2016, and the first time at Lanier Islands Legacy Golf Course in Buford, Georgia. By the grace of God, and several dedicated Friendship golf committee members, the outing was a successful venture once again. Although the total golf player count was down slightly from 2015, this year s sponsorship contributions far exceeded all previous outings. Golfer feedback thus far has been positive and encouraging. All proceeds will continue to support the FBC Family Life Center and its activities. George Rogers, a former Heisman Trophy winner, and also formerly an FBC community resident, provided photo opportunities for golfers to take pictures with him and his trophy. Once again, our faithful FBC Bro. Louie Malone was available to provide his professional photo services. The Golf Outing Committee Chairman, James Brownsmith, would like to thank all those who participated as golfers, sponsors, committee members, and, most of all, Pastor Bowens for his annual blessings of this fellowship and fundraising event. Plans will soon begin for the 9 th Annual Golf Outing in Next year s outing will be even more important because Poplar Hill Baptist Church was able to take spiritual possession of the Church Cup trophy this year by posting the best score. This was the first time since the 2010 inception of the Church Cup trophy that Friendship was not able to maintain possession. The Church Cup trophy was created to encourage fellowship among area churches outside our traditional church walls. Talk has begun with two other churches possibly hosting their own Church Cup event to coincide with Friendship s, and we pray for continued growth and success. Deacon Thomas Young, Golf Outing Coordinator

21 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 21 National Safety Council s Defensive Driver Course Due to membership request, we have returned to the 2-day training class for the National Safety Council s Defensive Driver Course. The next class offerings will be September 10, 2016, from 9:00 am- 4:00 pm with a required noon lunch hour break and September 17 th. For future class dates and registration, please go to the FBC online web direct link. Certification of Defensive Driving Course completion will be provided to all eligible persons to allow for possible auto insurance discounts where offered. Friendship Baptist Church has no authority regarding an insurance company s policy to discount individual customer plans. Please take note this course is for Friendship Baptist Church members only, who qualify for a valid Georgia driver s license. For additional information, please contact: Deacon Thomas Young at (219) or by to: tyoung6027@gmail.com.

22 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 22 Gwinnett SCHOOL BUS SAFETY TIPS As summer vacation has come to an end and students are back to school, drivers will share the road again with school buses. It's important to remember the rules of the road where school buses are concerned, both for the safety of drivers behind the wheel and for kids riding the bus. Here are a few tips provided by the Gwinnett County Police Department to help you understand when to stop for a school bus loading and unloading children. AMBER Lights signal that the school bus is preparing to stop. FLASHING Red Lights with the stop arm extended indicate drivers must STOP. If traveling on a two-lane road with one lane going in either direction, drivers going both directions must STOP. If traveling on a larger road with two lanes of travel separated by a center turn lane, drivers going both directions must STOP. If traveling on a roadway that has separation between the directions of travel (cement median, grass or other barrier), only the vehicles on the same side of the bus are required to STOP. HOMEOWNERS Property tax bills due October 15 For property owners with an escrow account, tax information is available to the mortgage company; however, it is ultimately the responsibility of the property owner to ensure taxes are paid by the due date. If there are any questions about who will pay the taxes, homeowners should contact their mortgage company directly, especially if their mortgage company has recently changed. There are several options for property tax payment: Pay by check, credit or debit card at or at a tag office kiosk by credit or debit card (paying by check is free, by debit card with a $3.95 flat fee or by credit card with a 2.29% convenience fee. Mail payments to P.O. Box 372, Lawrenceville, GA Pay by check using drop boxes accessible 24 hours a day at all Gwinnett tag offices. Pay in person during business hours at all Tax Commissioner offices. Go paperless! Receive your property tax bill electronically! It s quick and easy to sign up. Visit the website and click the Go Paperless button on the homepage.

23 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 23 Top 10 Biblical Reasons Christians Should Register and Vote 1. Jesus said that the second of two Great Commandments is to love your neighbor as you love yourselves (Matt. 22:39). If we truly love our neighbors, we will be concerned about the kind of government leaders and laws we all live under. So we can show love for our neighbors in the way we vote. 2. Jesus called us the Salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matt. 5:13-16). By implication, we are to influence all areas of life and culture, including the arena of government. One of the main ways we can influence government is how we vote. 3. Jesus commanded: Give to Caesar what is Caesar s and to God what is God s (Matt. 22:21). Obviously, the reference is to paying taxes. However, in a democratic republic where we have a government of the people, for the people, and by the people, every eligible citizen is expected to vote as well. 4. Paul states in Romans 13:1 that the governmental authorities that exist have been established by God. In fact, God established three institutions: the family, the church, and the civil government. Therefore, we are responsible to the divinely established institution of government to be good citizens (Rom. 13:1-7, I Peter 2:13-17). One of the ways we can be good citizens in America is to vote. 5. God entrusts every believer with stewardship over time, talents, treasure and opportunities for which we will be held accountable. The ability to vote is a gift to us, and we will answer for what we do (or don t do) with it. Better to be like the wise and faithful servant who took action and invested than the one who did nothing with what he was entrusted (Matt. 25:14-30). 6. Voting recognizes the equality of all people before God, which is the foundation for our right to be heard and represented. (Galatians 3:26-28) 7. The Bible offers examples of representative government: Exodus 18:21 says: Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness: and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. Acts 6:3 says: Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. Based on Biblical principal, we select these representative leaders by voting. 8. The same verses about representative leaders who also speak of the kind of character qualities we should look for in those we select to represent us: able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness (Exod. 18:21)and men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom (Acts 6:3). We should look for candidates who model these values and consider supporting them with our vote. 9. When we vote, we make an alliance with the candidate of our choice. A prophet confronted the King of Judah for his unwise alliance with the wicked King Ahab: Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Therefore, the wrath of the Lord is upon you (2 Chron. 29:2). So we need to be informed before we vote. 10. Elections have enormous consequences: When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked rule, they mourn. (Proverbs 29:2) How we vote today impacts tomorrow! More to come next issue. Source: Voter Resource Guide

24 Friendship Baptist Church A Purpose-Driven Church Page 24 Friendly through Fellowship Developed through Discipleship Enlarged through Evangelism Sharing and Caring through Servanthood Stronger through God s Word and True Worship Church Address and Contact Information 3375 Church Lane, Duluth GA :00am 5:00pm Monday-Friday Contact: Rita Bowens, Executive fbcduluth@att.net FBC MINISTRY LEADERS ASSOCIATE MINISTERS Rev. Ken Blacknell Minister John Carter Minister Chris Colston Rev. Garfield Garner Rev. Al Gamble Rev. Eugene Graves Minister Shurron Green Minister Floyd Williams Rev. Stanley Williams Rev. Alton Wilson MINISTERS OF EVANGELISM Minister Karen Blacknell Minister Amelia Brown Evangelist Geneva Burse Minister Geneva Crownhart Evangelist Karen DeLee Evangelist Denise Jackson Minister Roslyn Long Evangelist Ruthell Morris Minister Barbara Williams Evangelist Deloris Williams FBC COMMUNICATIONS LEADERS Harold Mitchell, Deacon Advisor Minister Amelia Brown, Chaplain Louie Malone, President Terrill Tarver, Vice President Jennifer Jones, Secretary Shatina Patterson, Assistant Secretary Christine Smith, Treasurer NEWSLETTER STAFF Editor/Graphic Design Paulette Tapp Reporter/Writer Hyacinth Chung Photography Louie Malone Publisher Terrill Tarver Please direct comments regarding the newsletter to: communicationsministry@friendshipduluth.org