The Columns. November Calvary Baptist Church. 608 Campbell, Avenue, S.W. Roanoke, VA (540)

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1 The Columns November 2016 Calvary Baptist Church 608 Campbell, Avenue, S.W. Roanoke, VA (540) Dr. Steven W. Pollard, Pastor Donna de Simone, Director of Preschool Ministry Debbie Foutz, Office Manager Jane Price, Nursery

2 A word that may be new to you (at least it's usage) straight from the millennial lexicon is "haters." Simply put, "haters" are those who make it part of their demeanor to "put-down" and verbally disparage persons, thoughts, opinions, lifestyles, beliefs...well nearly anything. It may even seem that haters are continually looking for a target for their negativity. They seem to never have a negative though that goes unexpressed. Unfortunately, one of my least favorite aspects of Facebook is as a forum for haters spew their toxins. And it's not just Facebook. It seems to me that our world is being fueled by anxiety fear, anger, hate and criticism. Our leaders have no boundaries when it comes to criticizing each other just to get elected. Even religious leaders seem to be looking for the "next big issue" to rail about from the pulpit; each one responsible for the decline of civilization. It's gotten so Church is more about hating than loving (Okay, for those who want to hop on the "semantics train," don't feed me that line that criticism is a way of informing sinners that they are indeed sinners in need of salvation. It's been my observation that most of those involved in whatever sins top your list aren't sitting in a pew, anywhere. I just think a lot of folks get some perverse pleasure when someone, besides them, is getting lambasted in absentia. Hence, what is the purpose? Just saying...) We at Calvary Baptist Church recognize that everyone needs a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We think everyone needs a safe place to work things out with God, ask the hard questions, and struggle. We also think that such a place should be a place where love is everywhere, at work in everything, guiding everyone in demonstrating what Jesus meant by "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." (John 13:34, NIV) It's not that we don't think sin exists, but we see the solution as God's love; not God's anger; not God's wrath. After all it was Yoda that reminded us, "Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." There's already quite enough suffering going on right now in this world. So if you're looking for a church that's not about being a bunch "Haters"; a place where you are wanted an loved (no matter who you are); Calvary Baptist Church on Campbell Ave is the right place for you. We are a different kind of 'Baptist'. If you don't believe me, come see for yourself! Your Pastor, Steven W. Pollard P.S. One last thing from the internet that I think is true: "All opinions are not okay to express."

3 You made a Difference!! On Tuesday, Oct. 4th, I drove over to Rainelle, W. Va. to visit the Rainelle Christian Academy Facility (the collection Center for the W.Va. Flood Victims.) This is the center for which the Calvary Baptist member s donations of furniture, televisions, bed and bath linens all accessory items were delivered.by our volunteer driver: Mr. Larry Meadows. It was an eye opening operation as to the size of the building and the amount of products that were there to be distributed to the people needing help. Ms. Rudd is the contact person there volunteering her time for several months along with members of Sewell Valley Baptist Church. The Christian Academy is owned by the church but has no students due to the economy in this area of W.Va. She and all members of her church were so thankful for everything that had been donated to them and are dedicated to see that it gets to those in need. She and other members of her church do thank Calvary Baptist for everything that was contributed. There have been so many individuals, organizations and churches involved that she said that it was virtually impossible to record the names and addresses in order to send out written notices of thanks and gratitude. Nevertheless, all donations were greatly appreciated. It was so interesting to learn that families of The Mennonite/Amish faith had moved in by dividing off the areas in the gymnasium to made bedrooms for their families who are there to provide free labor to the families (189 families had signed up for help.) The families were there from New Jersey, Texas, etc. bringing their families with them. Therefore, the children have to be home schooled. I met the Pastor of Sewell Valley Baptist Church, Rev. Fred Fryar. He and family occupied the parsonage which was destroyed by the flood. There was water in his home up to his chest, therefore, he lost everything. Businesses are not eligible for help from FEMA, therefore the repairs have to paid for individually or by the organization. The carpet in the sanctuary was being replaced due to moisture, etc. Despite this tragedy, the people that I spoke with all remain in good spirits and friendly. I saw homes that were still condemned, several FEMA provided trailers and understand that there are people still living in tents. I thank everyone who gave of time, products and gift cards to help our W.Va. neighbors! Shirley Fletcher Following approval by the July, 2015 Church in Conference, Calvary became a voting location for city, state and federal elections. On November 8, 2016, voters registered in Roanoke s Highland District will come to Calvary s Dining Room to participate in the National election. The Dining Room will be closed to all other activities on that day. Special thanks to Calvary members who have volunteered to be present at the facility during the course of the day. They are: Harry Bundy, Betty Hall, Jean McBride, and Jack Pilcher.

4 Calendars The Evelyn Townsend Circle wishes to express sincere appreciation to all who purchased 2017 calendars. This is our major fund raiser each fall and we are very grateful for your generous support! Next Meeting The Circle will meet at 7:00 PM on November 14 th in the home of Janice Deyerle. Anyone who would like to join us is certainly welcome to come and see what we are all about. Home Bound Ministry Team Thank you to our new team members for joining us to keep in touch with our members who are no longer able to attend activities and services at the church facility. Our new members are: Ann Andrews Mary Ellen Gearheart Cheryl Nicely Coretta Sowder Grace Taylor Vilas Secrist Each team member uses visits, calls and cards to remind our Calvary family members that they are still an essential part of Calvary Baptist Church. The Home Bound Ministry team is always looking for new team members. If you would like to be a part of our ministry, please contact one of these Team Leaders: Harry Bundy Betty Hall Jack Pilcher

5 On Saturday, November 4th, hundreds will gather in Downtown Roanoke for the Virginia Veterans Parade to honor our military service personnel. Bring your family and friends and show your support and patriotism. The parade will begin at 11AM. Full details of the event, including the parade route can be found at Contribute When You Shop! Both Kroger and Amazon have programs that make contributions to Calvary when registered patrons shop with them. Best of all the cost to you is Nothing! Zero! Nada! Zippo! Here s how they work. A hearty THANK YOU to all Calvary s friends and family who have participated in Kroger s Community Rewards program. We continue to benefit from Kroger s program and hope, with your help, to continue. Last year Kroger instituted a requirement for a yearly renewal of participation in the Community Rewards, beginning each August. Charitable organizations, like Calvary, receive a portion of the profit from Kroger cards linked to their organization, up to $50,000 per year! If you have not yet renewed your Community Rewards, or have not yet enrolled, you are encouraged to do so! You can call Krogers ( ) to enroll or renew your enrollment. If you prefer, you can enroll or renew online at All you will need is your Kroger shoppers card, and Calvary s NPO (non-profit organization) number; # If you have questions or need assistance, please contact Debbie in the church office. She is more than happy to assist. So PLEASE be sure to renew your card and participate in this EASY- and FREE fundraising opportunity!

6 Amazon Smile provides a simple and automatic way for Amazon customers to support their favorite charitable organizations. With every eligible purchase Amazon will donate a.05% of the purchase price to Calvary. With the Christmas shopping season upon us, and so many people using Amazon for its selection, pricing, and convenience, this fundraising opportunity is a great way to help raise funds for Calvary. And there is NO additional cost to you! To enroll, simply sign on to to establish an Amazon account. With your OR, if you are already an Amazon customer just sign in. You will then be directed to a page to allow you to select your charitable organization. Enter Calvary Baptist Church Roanoke VA and click Select. That s all there is to it! Funny Bones The Usher Cora walked into her local Church. The friendly usher greeted her at the door and helped her up the flight of steps, 'Where would you like to sit?' he asked politely. 'The front row please,' Cora answered amiably. 'You really don't want to do that,' the usher said, 'This pastor is really boring.' 'Sonny, do you happen to know who I am?' Cora inquired, looking directly at him. 'No.' he rejoined. 'I'm the pastor's mother,' Cora announced indignantly. 'Do you know who I am?' he asked. 'No.' she said. 'Good,' he answered and disappeared. Birthday Blessings to members of our Calvary Family! 11/01 Joyce Waugh 11/03 George Akers 11/06 Mick de Simone 11/09 Becky Beard, Mark Meeks 11/12 Paul V. Howell 11/13 Marlene Bradley, Missy Smith 11/14 Lois Cooper 11/18 Melissa Wade 11/19 David Kinsey 11/21 Diane Hylton, Dwayne Mason and Robert White

7 Poinsettias Beginning December 18, Calvary s sanctuary will be decorated with beautiful poinsettias given to the church in Honor or in Memory of friends and loved ones. Each poinsettia costs $7.00. The names will be published in the worship bulletin on December 18. If one poinsettia is ordered for multiple persons, the names will be printed as a group, not individually. Poinsettias will need to be picked up following the Christmas Eve Service, the Christmas Day Service or choose another option below. To purchase poinsettias, orders and payment need to be in the church office by Sunday, December 4. Orders cannot be accepted without payment. Please place your order form and check (note Poinsettia on check) in the offering plate or you can mail your order and payment together to Calvary Baptist Church, 608 Campbell Avenue, SW, Roanoke, VA Please print carefully the name of the person(s) being recognized and the giver s name. Your Name: Phone: Enclosed is my check for $ ($7.00 each). Designate poinsettias as noted below. Donor name(s): In Memory of: In Honor of: Please choose one of the following options: I want my poinsettia to go to a shut-in. I will pick up my poinsettia at the Christmas Eve Service. Donation of $7.00 for a poinsettia to be delivered to a shut-in.