LGC JOURNAL
New Year's Day fell on Sunday. A new beginning for each of us and for our church. Pastor Jeff Harford and his family were in the area for the weekend. We were blessed by his message of challenge for 2006 The missionary march offering was taken as we listened to Go Tell It On The Mountain. We are commanded to tell others that Jesus was born, to die, to save all mankind. May that be our mission in the coming year of our Lord. As we search for a pastor, may we be faithful as we work together and wait on the Lord to move. (Keep reading!)
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the death of five missionary men in Ecuador. On Jan 8th we viewed "Beyond the Gates of Splendor", a documentary of the tragedy. This amazing story showed "how love can truly transform any situation and how faith makes a family out of the most unlikely of people." In time this savage people learned of the One who did not spear back as the families lived among them. Many plan to see the movie End of the Spear opening in theatres later this month. Just maybe it will the "passion" of 2006.
Many hands made light work on Feb 25. First off, the chimes choir shared their music with the residents of Shelby Manor. This was the first performance for some members but the ringing brought smiles to the folks there. It is not easy for six people with twelve hands to play one song! In the meantime, other hands were busy spring cleaning at the church. Some of the UMYF came out to help as part of their 30-hour famine. We actually found the storage closet had a floor! Upstairs and down were squeaky clean. Bring on the white gloves!
We were pleased to have Roel Villenueva and members of his youth group in our morning services one Sunday in March. Several of our own members will join them this July in a rebuilding mission trip to NC in areas with severe storm damage. He showed slides of previous trips demonstrating the close bond that forms when people are in one accord doing God's work. Some of the kids gave testimonials of what they enjoyed most and how they have grown spiritually during these trips. We'll have opportunity to help financially get them on their way with fundraisers coming up, and be anxious to hear all about it on their return.
On March 23, the Women United met in the church basement. After the business meeting, the hostesses passed the popcorn and hot chocolate as we viewed the first half of the video "Bad Girls of the Bible". This is a series by Liz Curtis Higgs who humorously tells bible stories, failures and successes, and the lessons we can learn from them. One minute we were rolling with laughter and the next, examining our own badness! We hear there's a sequel--"Really Bad Girls of the Bible".
Gary Crowder was guest speaker at our Father-Son Banquet on Mar 31. After a good old-fashioned meat and potatoes supper with enough pie to take home later, the guys were entertained by a ukelele band of 10-12 people from a Taylorville church. They played and sang along to oldies but goodies, literally singing for their supper! As always, Gary gave an inspiring talk on problems and solutions in our community and our world.
Our women's bible study group, having completed our first book in the Women of Faith series, "Managing Your Moods", met at Nola's on Apr 7. She summarized the book's lessons by showing us the trinkets to treasure she had given out--flying pigs, whisks, miniature chairs, butterflys, braided cords. We concluded by watching the rest of the Bad Girls video which highlighted the woman at the well, the woman who anointed Jesus' feet and Rahab, the harlot. As the speaker put it, we might be "bad to the bone, bad for a season, bad for a moment", but we can be made new by God's grace.
God is faithful! Our congregation unanimously elected Ray Price as our pastor on April 9. We first met Ray and his wife, Debbie, in January when he filled the pulpit one Sunday but he was expecting a new assignment by summer. He remarked later of the immediate connection he felt with the people and how we worship the Lord. The feeling was mutual and let's just say, it was a match made in heaven. God always provides for all our needs, the church and the people in it. After some remodeling at the parsonage, dozens of people helped Ray and Debbie move in on April 29. By the way, one of the first decorations they put up was the Cardinal mascot in the yard which pleased ALMOST everybody! We are all on God's team!
Holy Week brought many opportunities to serve and be served. The chime choir blessed the nursing home residents in Moweaqua with a program telling the Easter story in song. We encourage everyone to sing along to the familiar songs, players as well, to stay together and cover up our mistakes! That evening we showed The Passion in the sanctuary to prepare us for Easter. For first-time viewers in particular, the movie was a vivid reminder of the cruelty of the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus as He willingly laid down His life for us. Maunday Thursday service included communion, hymns, and a quiet candlelight reading of the stations of the cross. A solemn reminder of how much love it took for Christ to go through all that WE deserved. Easter dawned with chime praise time before services began. Praise and worship in a full house kept everyone anticipating what came next. The choir performed "End of the Beginning" with a slideshow, concluding with "Total Praise". Pastor Ray gave a victory sermon making plain to all there is room at the cross for anyone who believes.
Worship comes from the heart. Some may think it strange not to hear traditional hymns to start a service, but you might be surprised some Sundays. The piano preludes take an occasional detour to poplular music with a twist. With slides displaying revised lyrics, you might hear "I Will Follow Him", "Up Where We Belong", "The Prayer", "Only Hope", "You Needed Me", "The Sound of Harvest", or "Crying in the Chapel". No one can say God has not been lifted up when we have left the building, not even Elvis!
National Day of Prayer was celebrated with a community service at the Shelbyville Chatauqua Building. There was great praise led by a worship team, patriotic trumpet/trombone duets, specific prayers by area pastors, offering taken and special guests. Nathan Jesse gave his testimony and story of his kidney transplant one year ago. Kent Bottenfield, ex-Cub and Cardinal baseball player, performed several songs he had written and recorded after sharing his story of injury and life after baseball. The whole evening was inspiring and spirit-filled. We must make praying for our nation and it's leaders a priority every day.
On May 7 we had family night with special entertainment with a message. Yes, the voices of the love loaves returned fresh-baked. There was nothing stale about their personal stories of how each one had been "fed" since taken home a month ago. The World Vision challenge was simple, share what you have with African children and orphans. Some of the "loaves" were malnourished, some were operated on (for a loan!), some were stuffed in a corner and forgotten, some were plump and proud. We found out we have more thespians in our midst than we knew!!! Chuckles aside, we were all prompted to do better in the coming weeks to make our bread rise to the occasion of the needy.
Mothers were honored on May 14 since we know they are a gift from God. Special awards were given to three mothers and every mother was treated like a queen for a day receiving a magnet crown and the poem "Mother's Covers". The children's message reminded us of the child's game "Mother May I"? We should have manners or we have to do things over--also we shouldn't make a move without asking God if we should. Each mother was also armed with a small plastic golf ball before the sermon. Pastor Ray came to the pulpit fitted in a catcher's helmet and chest protector. As he read the scripture about women submitting to their husbands, we were allowed to "vent" our true feelings on him. Now that we felt better, he continued to tell us why God made us that way. He was a good sport and we got the point!
May Sundays brought graduations and celebrations. We are proud to have four seniors from area schools in our midst, all hard workers and great role models--Stacey Harley, Nick Wiseman, Travis Woods and Kris Yoder. The youth leaders gave each of them T-shirts with Christian messages. Eighth grade graduates are Paige Jordan, Trenton Wiseman and Katie Yoder who received engraved bibles. The women of the church held their May meeting on Norma Dowd's backyard deck. Nola gave a devotion about blooming where we are planted. She distributed self-exam questions on the quality of our fruits of the spirit like--when we've had a bad day, do we show joy? We had popsicle sherbert and fancy cookies for dessert as we visited. Memorial Day Sunday, May 28, opened with the chimes playing Onward Christian Soldiers and America the Beautiful. We recited the pledges, sang freedom songs, and honored our veterans. Craig Macklin is serving in Iraq at this time. The choir sang "The Marriage Supper of the Lamb", a picture of when there will be no more war. That evening we were favored by a concert from New Life Quartet. Everyone got to hear their favorites and new songs they want to hear again. A time of fellowship was held afterwards.
In general, our services are NOT coordinated by those who lead and share. But time after time, they awesomely follow a theme and you know you've heard from God. On June 4, the family of God was prominent in choruses, missions, childrens' message and sermon. We are all children of God and brothers and sisters in Christ. That evening we shared potluck meal together and broke the love loaves open as we listened to the song "Broken by what breaks the heart of God". It was a "heavy" offering with many well-fed loaves! Next we watched an introductory video for Operation Christmas Child, the shoebox ministry sponsored by Samaritan's Purse. We were challenged to get involved for the sake of the those who cannot help themselves.
On June 7 there were 12 women and one little guy at Nola Bresnan's to begin the study on "Encouraging One Another". Like the last book, we find many promises to remind us that God planned ahead for all our gloomy days. Open discussions bring out some wonderful thoughts to ponder, like when we don't know how to pray, say the ABC's and let God make the words; help me to remember in the darkness of my life what you showed me in the light; things don't come to stay, they come to pass. Sometimes we are the encourager, and other times we need the encouragement. We each received a cheerleader ribbon to remind us that the angels are cheering us on in the paths our lives take. We welcome anyone to join us on the first Wednesday night of every month. We are sure Nola took a Martha Stewart tip when she served the fancy cheese and crackers but it ended up being a Kroger shortcut!!!! The men of the church meet at the church on these same nights. We learn to lean on God and each other.
On July 2 Orin & Sandy Linden were our special missionary guests. This couple raised their four children in the Phillipines and now serve in the Wycliffe organization's Arizona office encouraging new volunteers in bible translation. Orin, a former pilot, shared their story of faith, hope and trust in God no matter where He sent them, and no matter the physical limitations. It is always a joy to meet these humble messengers we have supported many years. A potluck meal at noon let us get better acquainted and learn their personal prayer needs as we partner with them.
Seashells, sand, fish, nets and a few parrots and monkeys transformed our sanctuary into Treasure Cove for this year's VBS July 10-14. Each night more than 40 children came anxious to discover the gem of the night with clues given at each station. Chester, the treasure chest mascot, kept the precious gems safe and sound. As always, the great music seemed to be the catalyst to understanding and enthusiasm about learning more. The riches in biblical principals were stored in their hearts as we learned we are God's treasured possessions!
Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and the Lord's Day. Our annual S.S. picnic theme was Field of Faith, a baseball lover's dream as people sported their favorite team colors on July 23. Spirited songs like "Do You Know About Jesus" (Take Me Out to the Ballgame tune) and "As a Volunteer" (with words about our being players in the Lord's game), "You Are the One" and "We Applaud Your Greatness" (with the audience/fans giving God a hand) were all part of the worship experience! A highlight was a clip from Field of Dreams backed up by a song by ex-Cub/Cardinal Kent Bottenfield, "I Can't Wait to go Home". After great grilled hamburgers and an apple dessert contest, the coolest place to be was around or IN the dunk tank outside. Pastor Ray won the hitting challenge, but we all "walked" away feeling part of God's team.
The Yoders, Terry, Bev, Kris & Katie, Elliott Tom and Melvin Adrian joined up with the UMYF in Moweaqua on a mission trip to coastal North Carolina in late July. After the devastation of spring storms, there were many opportunities to cleanup, rebuild, paint. The team also helped with afternoon kids' club. Missing the comforts of home did not overshadow the new friendships they made with each other and those they came to help. Sightseeing is always a fringe benefit, but their eyes were opened in more ways than one!
In August, Operation Christmas Child gave us another avenue to give gifts of love and hope. Each family was asked to fill a shoebox with age-appropriate small toys, soap, toothbrushes, books, or socks for a boy or girl who otherwise might get nothing for Christmas. Sponsored by Samaritan's Purse Ministries, the gospel is proclaimed as the gifts are distributed. Free gifts are received with gratefulness, just as we hope many of these children will accept the free gift of salvation in part because someone showed they care.
After a long battle with cancer, Carl Simpson went home to be with the Lord in early August. Despite his struggles in the late stages, Carl was always full of hope and praised God for each new day. His desire was to bring his family and friends closer to God and in his life and death, he walked his talk. He will be missed among us but we must not forget how he demonstrated his love and patterned His Savior.
The lazy days of summer were soon forgotten as we revved up for our August 6-9 revival. Todd Hawk returned for four nights of great meetings. The word was out and the house was full each night as we looked inside ourselves to see what God sees. In Todd's special way, we will never think of sunnyside-up eggs the same again, a gracious lesson in answered prayer and brotherly love. Every day should be a day of personal revival, waking up to God's voice.
Krista Macklin & Josh Morgan became husband and wife on August 19. Our best wishes go to this special couple as God blesses their new life together.
Jesus' cleansing of the temple took on a whole new meaning the morning of Aug 27. Starting in the parking lot, attendants directed us to the nickel, dime or quarter areas. Youth met us at the front door selling seat passes in cheap, medium or high-priced pews. Plan on singing? Rent a hymnbook. Music needed? Tip the pianist. The final straw--fill the plate labeled short, medium or long sermon! Pastor Ray had set the stage for a lesson in attitude and obedience. WE are the temple of the Holy Ghost so WE need to present our bodies a living sacrifice. Worship cannot be bought or sold.... God loves a cheerful giver of themselves!
Welcome to our world, Griffin Blaine Adrian! Melvin & Dawn, Aubrey & Riley's family added one on Sept 9. Alex and Elliot were happy too that Baby made boys outnumber the girls! Plenty of love to go around with grandparents Don & Bev Lanter and Carl & Maryann Adrian too. Griffin's dedication was on Nov 26.
On Oct 1, Flagstaff gifts were boxed up for distribution at December Christmas meetings. The haystack supper was the first for Ray & Debbie, but taco fixin's rank right up there with white chili in their book! This was also Love Your Neighbor Sunday, fitting since our neighbors include those across the street, country and world. That morning we also recognized Pastor Ray during pastor appreciation month with a monetary gift to help with travel and other needs. We feel so blessed God sent them to us! In a few short months he has brought new ideas and ways to lead us. One of his trademarks is each morning before the sermon, he asks if we are ready! We stand, raise our bibles high and repeat "This is MY bible" followed by several phrases emphasizing why it is such a precious Book. Even out of the mouths of babes, we hear "This is MY bible".......that is precious too!
As the song goes, "What a thrill that we feel when we get together with God's wonderful people!" On Oct 22 Fame hosted a joint singspiration. From grand congregational singing to youth worship band to the youngest pianist's solo, it was an evening of smorgasbord talent. God set the table and feasted on our praise.
Question: Can you sleep when the wind blows? Everyone at our Farmer's Day Service on Oct 29 had to answer for themselves. Windmills were a common sight on every farm long ago and served a dual purpose, showing wind direction and pumping water, so upstairs and down was decorated with windmills of all sizes amid fall flowers. Tenor Jack Erisman, a farmer himself, sang "Come Into the Field", "He" and also led the congregation in "Master, the Tempest is Raging". The choir added more food for thought with "Wherever the Wind Blows, God is Moving". Pastor's Ray sermon centered on trusting God. The kind of trust where you feel safe in the middle of a storm....most of us would say our lives ride on more rough waters, than smooth sailing. But the power of the Holy Spirit pumps the Living Water into our dry and thirsty souls helping us ride the waves in peace. At noontime, sharing homecookin' fed our hungry mouths! The answer, my friend, is "blowin' in the wind"--the Answer is Jesus!
Well, doggies! Starting Nov 8, Wednesday night bible study used the Beverly Hillbillies series as a lesson opener. The original black and white episodes were shown then followed by questions seeking God's truths in each storyline--honesty, motives, trust. We looked forward to watching the corny characters and discover deeper meanings under the surface. Oh, that we all lived a simpler, uncomplicated life instead of keeping up with the Jones! As Granny might have said, "Be 'still' and know He is God!"
On Nov 19 the Moweaqua Ministerial Alliance arranged the Great Thanksgiving Service at the First Christian Church. Our choir opened the service with "Welcome to the House of the Lord". Our Pastor Ray gave an inspiring message "Man, Am I Thankful", pointing out that Thanksgiving is the door to Christmas. It was GREAT to worship together.
The Assumption Christian Church was the setting for the Nov 18 wedding of Katy Forlines to Michael McLain. It was very much a family affair with Pastor Ray Finney officiating. Our church family, friends and both families vow to lift their marriage up in prayer. And God said "Let there be love!"
On Dec 1 the community experienced a full-fledged ice storm. One by one, substations went out-of-service because of snapped power lines and downed trees. Most people were out for a few hours, some for several days, but many used generators until overworked repairman could restore their power. Old Man winter gave us a jump start. Several members of the church volunteered for Christmas on Main in Moweaqua Dec 2. Nativity participants and cookie bakers helped make the day a success. The more the merrier....Christmas, that is.
The Women United and invited guests enjoyed a lovely Christmas meal together on the evening of Dec 4. Sherry and Lori had the tables dressed with ribbon and crystal favors. We played some games, exchanged gifts, but mostly enjoyed each other's company. There's a friend who sticks closer than a brother; it's His birth we celebrated together. The women's bible study group like to refer to themselves as sistern, not brethren!
Pastor Ray & Debbie held an open house at the parsonage on Dec 8. Guests were met at the door by Rudolph himself, antlers and all. The bear room was quite a hit. Later in a children's message Pastor Ray showed the kids their Christmas stockings, BIG ones! Every year Deb expects a new bear in hers and it joins the collection. What do we expect at Christmas? "Seek and ye shall find!"
We were blessed to hear a special missionary message from Pastor Herman Sentamu of Passover Harvest ministries in Kampala City, Uganda, South Africa on Dec 10. In four years his church has grown from 12 to over 2000 with most members either jobless or employed in poor-paying jobs. After giving us his personal testimony, Pastor Herman was happy to share about the spiritual growth of his people during his travels in the US. There is great need in this heavily populated, poverty-stricken city. Especially at this Christmas time, his heartfelt plea to spread the good news of great joy to all nations touched our hearts. A generous offering was received as we felt led to do our part in giving them Hope, with a name....that wonderful name of Jesus. It is the dream of Pastor Ray to preach to the masses there some day soon at Pastor Herman's invitation.
Our church brought Christmas to the Moweaqua Nursing Home residents on December 17. We sang some traditional carols and Sheila sang a solo "The Perfect Tree". There is nothing like reading a good story so she read The Three Trees to residents as big "kids" sat on the floor around her. Each tree had dreams of being something great, valuable and beautiful, but woodsmen used them to build a manger, a boat and a cross that to there surprise were vital in our Savior's life. Without Christmas there is no Easter. Nola then sang "White (Right) Christmas", followed by everyone singing "Ring the Bells" assisted beautifully by Levon. Let the whole world know! Evening services that night was Christmas Request Night. Threre are so many beautiful Christmas songs they can't all be sung during advent season. This was your chance to request and hear your favorites song by a willing singer. Since the children were practicing in the sanctuary, we held our service in the cozy dimly lit fellowship hall complete with hot chocolate. We started off singing the "Real Twelve Days of Christmas", heard "Christmas Shoes" by Kevin, "What Made the Baby Cry" by Nola, "Ring the Bells" by Jan, "Mary Wrapped a Present" by Sheila, "Mary Did You Know" by Deb, "Go Tell It On the Mountain" by Erin, "We Three Kings" by Gretchen & Ethan, and "It Was a Starry Night" by Al & Lori. Music is a gift of God.
Christmas Eve morning had something for everyone. The choirchimes played selections as people arrived for the 10am program. The youth department under the guidance of Jerry, Lisa and Dusty, performed Live From Bethlehem, puppets broadcasting interviews on that night of nights. Nothing like the familiar carols in children's voices. Abby and Gretchen each played a duet with her mother, and the beginners' sang like little angels. After a break, morning worship began. Each Sunday in December one family would light the advent candle and read scripture....the candle of peace was lit on this day. The choir sang "We Have Seen The Light" and "He is the Light of the World". "We should let our lights shine before men" Matt 5:16. Treats for everyone out the door as we basked in the thought of the living, breathing Word of God become Flesh. Later that evening in candlelight, several families met for a worshipful, silent night. Solos by Tim, Deb and Nola and a shepherd's monologue by Pastor Ray set the scene. Communion and individual candles made Christmas come to us. Jesus, you are welcome here.
