LGC JOURNAL
The psalmist said "Our times are in His hands". Just as each of us looks back on the past year and forward to 2007, our church reflects and anticipates as well. Pastor Ray has a vision of transformation for our congregation that will ripple into the community. God is all about changing lives and we should always be striving to be more like Jesus. Our lives may be the only Bible some people read. May we work to be all we can be in Christ this year.
The Women of Faith bible study continued on Jan 3 with lessons on encouragement. Nola led the study on stirring up our spiritual gifts and gave each women a wooden spoon as a reminder. And it didn't stop there! Just as Pastor Ray began to preach the following Sunday, we stood up, waved our spoons in the air, and encouraged him to "stir it up!" What a cheer and goal for every Christian. The Feb 7th meeting was a discussion on how sharing our experiences can encourage others. Many times this involves going out of our way, even stopping what we are doing, to comfort someone. In fact, a phone call interrupted our study...and we practiced what was preached, prayed for and encouraged the person on the other end. We also lifted up many prayer concerns including our own Linda and Joan. We decided what was good for the brethren was good for the "sistern"--which we often call each other affectionately! We took home bookmark trinkets with the Shaker pattern "hands to work, hearts to God".
The first potluck of the year doubled as family game night on Jan 7. Kids and adults were polled for counters and thinkers to match players to planned activities. Craig and Laura laid out the rules for a bunco tournament to the number crunchers, while Sheila got the intellectuals seated for circle games like bop it, rhythm, scissors and the illusive mind-over-magazine game. The younger kids brought their favorite board games. From the sounds coming from every corner, no one cared who won or lost. By the end of the evening, we all knew each other better and loved each other more. It IS a thrill we feel when we get together with God's wonderful people!
After recent elections, Pastor Ray installed church officers, teachers and servants on Jan 14. It is a privilege and responsibility to share the ministry. We just need to be willing and let God use us. On Jan 28 we had our annual congregational meeting in conjunction with all-you-can-eat pizza. Financial reports, trustee review, and council minute summaries gave us reason to thank God for His provision and guidance. Pastor Ray challenged us to look forward to a spiritual accounting this year--decisions, baptisms, visitation, membership, healings. This is the year that the Lord has made, let's make every day count for Him.
What if this was the year that Jesus comes? It could be, but God revealed past, present and future to Paul on the Isle of Patmos. Pastor Ray began teaching a class on Revelation on Jan 14. We must be making a difference locally and around the world to spread the gospel before it is too late. Every first Sunday of the month we get a report on missionaries we support in Uganda, Ukraine, Haiti and beyond. We take an offering at that time as well as bring canned goods for the local food pantry. Besides giving them prayer support, we also sent them a thumbprint valentine with signatures from the congregation. We must also support our country's leaders as they make tough decisions. Ironically the war in Iraq is in the name of freedom and homeland security, but the devil himself is a terrorist of sorts who seeks to kill and destroy. Missionaries are the foot soldiers, we must be the volunteer army. "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophesy, and keep those things which are written therein for the time is at hand" Rev 1:3
Any sports fan could tell you what the Super Bowl represented this year--the Midwest teams, Indianapolis Colts vs Chicago Bears, two black Christian coaches who are best friends and who lead with quiet confidence, and a veteran quarterback that had never won the big one. With that in mind, we had a pre-game service on Saturday, Feb 3, instead of game time Sunday night. New Life Quartet kicked off Super Saturday followed by Pastor Ray wearing a #18 jersey and blue metallic hair! His sermon was about getting hyped up about worship and evangelism like all the hype for a big sporting event. Alittle over the top? This was no fumble--we need to be good sports in the game of life and play anywhere God needs us, always being an inspiration to other players. (P.S. Pastor Ray and Debbie, avid Colts fans, were especially happy about the victory, particularly after their beloved Cardinals baseball team won last season!)
What's love got to do with it? Everything! Feb services were all about what He did for love. Even the children's message talked about the love code XOXOXOX. We can hug and kiss God through our praise and worship. Special music reminded us that love is the most important thing we can teach our children. Along these lines of God's plans for His church, Jesus will return for His bride, the faithful. The choir sang an arrangement heard at most weddings with words that went like this" "All of heaven has waited for that moment when Christ announces 'Here comes the Bride' ". What a reception that will be......
Love never fails--even with blizzard conditions approaching Valentine's Day. Twenty-five couples braved the cold to attend our love banquet at the auction house on Feb 14. Pastor Larry Moreau from Sidell provided entertainment with his guitar, song stories, and humor, especially the finale, Mississippi Squirrel Revival! Thanks Bob, for catering the meal on such short notice; thanks Mary & Phil, for taking our pictures; thanks to King Brent and Queen Christy for sharing the chocolates. We appreciated Pastor Ray, Debbie, Nola and Norma for their time and effort to make it all happen. We had three couples present who had been together for over 50 years. In every successful marriage, God is the third person.
On Feb 18 along with visitors from UMYF, there were new faces in the choir too! And they were wearing brown paper bags! Each with their unique but lifeless expressions, they became the object lesson for the morning sermon on letting our light shine before men. Pastor Ray drove the point home as he explained our witness and our worship are ineffective when we hide the light of Christ under a bushel. Not only that, but Nola found we can develop tunnel vision and cannot see the needs of those around us. Once the bags came off, the praises went up and the glory came down! We all left determined to let the people see Jesus in us! That afternoon the chime choir shined brightly as they played for the nursing home residents.
The transformation begins. On Feb 21 we had an Ash Wednesday service. Hymns on cleansing, surrender, and holiness set the tone for the season of Lent. From Psalms 51 we learned David took responsibility for his sin, asked God for forgiveness, then asked God to restore the joy of his salvation. Ashes, water and oil represent grief over sin, our baptism, and subsequent healing. Some denominations practice giving up something for Lent. We will be giving God 40 days starting now as we study the Purpose-Driven Life, one chapter a day, a weekly bible study offered on several nights, and a Sunday evening service that ties it all together. David told us what pleases God--the sacrifice of righteousness. May He find us faithful as we prepare ourselves for the empty tomb and rise to another level together.
We are blessed God sent us an anointed pastor in Pastor Ray. Space does not allow a week-by-week summary of his sermon fodder, but some just stand out. One Sunday he compared Hollywood's movie ratings to how sermons might be labeled. G-rated, the warm and fuzzy, feel good message; R-rated, the ones that address our daily walk and steps on our toes; and X-rated, the ones that lay out the timeless truth about eternity with or without Jesus. Another Sunday, he drew from the Rocky movies about underdogs who keep getting knocked down by life but keep getting up off the canvas. The star didn't give up because he'd read the script and knew the ending. The bible gives us the same advantage, so we too must keep getting up until the final bell. Even the children see and hear truth from their pastor. Magically, Ray and assistant Debbie, showed how sin can leave ashes of regret, but when Jesus forgives us, they disappear into thin air. Thank God for soft hearts and new starts.
With our study on purpose in high gear, March 10 was set for an annual church clean-up day. Workers just kept coming, rolled up their sleeves, picked their spot, and pitched in. From the youngest to the oldest, it was a flurry of activity, and at times we wondered if we made a bigger mess. But by lunchtime, closets, shelves, and drawers were organized, the building up and down smelled clean and fresh, ready for the Lord's Day. It feels so good to work and worship side-by-side.
Little Natalee Marie was born to Sandy & Jason on March 30th. Grandparents are Derrick & Darlene Simpson. They were showered with lots of soft, pink, gifts on March 17. And for those sleep-deprived nights ahead, we will shower this family with prayer! Congratulations to David and Aubrey Keeling on the birth of their second son, Eric, who joins Dawson. It is such a joy to have babies in our church, and parents who are raising them in the knowledge of the Lord.
40 days later. This number has great significance in the pages of the Bible. Now we know why. After daily personal readings and weekly group studies of Rick Warren's book on Purpose, we have learned more about each other and our God. It is evidenced in the fruit we see ripening in each other. From the first lesson "it's not about us" to the last "living on purpose is the only way to really live", pieces of life's puzzle came together to show us God's plan for each of us and as a church. The journey continues.....
Evidences of spring are at hand. March 25 worship began with Florence Ann Wooters singing His Eye Is On The Sparrow. Yes, He watches us.....we were on His mind before, during and after He gave His life up for us. One of the beauties of the recent group studies was hearing testimonies like husband, George's appreciation of green grass and newborn calves. In less than a week, he had a debilitating stroke. We ask why to such a loved and loving couple, but soon he would be sheltered in the arms of God. Not just George, but his wife, family and family of believers. As Pastor Ray brought out, there are some things a newspaper cannot tell you about a person. It is those things we will remember about George.
Palm Sunday, April 1, the children paraded through the sanctuary as we all sang Hosanna, Blessed is the King! The celebration continued as the children's message was all about the most famous egg, Humpty Dumpty. Just like he had a great fall, so did Adam when he fell into sin in the garden. Only the King of Kings could fix man's broken relationship with God the Father. That evening the sanctuary was prepared for our Easter cantata, A Place At His Table. Center stage was a table covered with gold cloth and arranged with bowls, goblets, and broken bread. Chairs for the host and guests were empty, waiting to be taken. The opening title song said it well...."for each soul there's a chair"....including the echo of children's voices. Monologues gave insight to the thoughts of the servant who prepared the last supper, the carpenter who cut beams for crucifixes, the gardener of Gethsemane, and Mary Magdalene who had experienced every emotion in recent days. Wonderful, anointed music took the listeners along on their journey. As if the cross was not enough, He forgave us too...if we answer the dinner bell, we will feast with Him in glory. It was a moving performance with a timeless message of hope!
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints". Dear Helen Jordan was welcomed into heaven by Jesus Himself on Apr 13. Though we are sad to see her leave this world, we know she has a mansion just over the hilltop. She has left a legacy in her family who will praise the Lord for His faithfulness just as she did.
Holy Week promised to be a time of rememberance. Our Maundy Thursday service was just like the first one, a simple meal of celebration enjoyed by a few close friends before Jesus revealed the coming events of his betrayal and death. As servants cleared the tables, the room grew dark except for seven lighted candles. One by one portions of the passion scripture were read and a candle extinguished. Until.....there was total darkness. In that guiet, Pastor Ray explained a world without light, without hope. Then a spotlight over the cross brought hope alive as only a resurrected Christ could do. "They sang a hymn and went out". Medleys of the cross opened the community Good Friday services on April 6 hosted by our church. Pastor Phip Sams gave the message "Why Preach Christ Crucified?" The salvation plan was completed with Jesus final words, "It is finished." But three days later we celebrated that you can't keep a good Man down! Our mission trip group sponsored a buffet breakfast before worship. It was a whole lot better than jelly beans and chocolate bunnies! From the opening note, "Christ the Lord is Risen Today", praises rang to our living Savior. Because Easter happened, we can have victory in Jesus. After all, it's not about us,.....it's about Him!
On April 15 we welcomed Gideon speaker Ray Odle. Even though each Sunday we confirm "this is my Bible", we easily forget that there are many who've never heard the good news. It is our responsibility to help "get the Word out" to a dark world. On April 22, we had church with the retirement center residents. Pastor shared that life has many ups and downs, but the God on the mountain is still God in the valley. That same evening we invited Fame Church to share in a night of song and snacks. God has given gifts to all His children and it is a blessing to use them and encourage each other. American Idol can't hold a candle to a song from a grateful heart!
In the afterglow of the 40 Days of Purpose, Pastor Ray challenged us to put it all into practice on April 29th. As at the wedding feast, Christ made the water in wine, He can fill our vessels with joy and a desire to serve Him more than ever before. It can be sweeter still as we pray without ceasing. Destiny Fellowship hosted the National Day of Prayer on May 3.
Honoring mothers should be a daily practice. A great crowd made a point to come for family night on Sunday, May 6. Some husbands or children may have prepared the food to share and sit by their favorite Mom. Laura gave several readings recognizing the special role God gave women. Nearly 90 women and children attended the Red Hat Party on May 11 in honor of Mother's Day. Norma and Linda decorated tables with red, purple and pink cloths with feathers here and there, and ladies heads made of flower pots with makeup, hats and curls. After a light supper of chicken salad and desserts (including red cake), we adjourned to the sanctuary. Our guests were the Red Hat Society of Cerro Gordo, several ladies decked out in their "true colors", each with their instrument of choice. They sang some great old songs and told jokes now and then. Everybody was amazed at the jewelry flaunted during "Has Anybody Seen My Gal?" Sometimes they had to stop entertaining to catch their breath, sometimes we had to hold our sides from laughing, but everyone young and old had a good time. Lori closed the evening singing the traditional Scarlet Ribbons, and everyone joined in on a mother's version. Have you ever heard your mother pray? Whether it is spoken or whispered, that is one of the most important jobs we have as mothers. The theme continued Sunday as each mother received a red hat notepad and mints. Just like a wide-brimmed red hat, God has us covered!
Women United continues to meet every other month. Our meetings always have timely devotions given by our hostesses. On May 31, Sherry talked about the board game "The Game of Life" and how we must trust God however the cards fall. On July 26 Sheila gave a lesson on our "purse-onality" with help from Christian comedian, Anita Renfro. It is always good to encourage one another so we can encourage others.
On May 28th a good crowd attended the Memorial Day Ceremony at the old park in Moweaqua. The American Legion and Boy Scout Troop conducted the program with pledges, gun salute, and tributes. Pastor Ray gave the message on veterans and particularly those who laid down their lives for the friends, following Jesus' example. Behind patriotic music, the scouts performed a touching flag retirement ceremony. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. II Cor. 3:17.
After months of prayers for healing, Carl Adrian met his Savior face-to-face in June. Melvin's dad was a true example of a changed life demonstrated by his belief that some day he would walk again (most assuredly in heaven) as well as his volunteer work in his community. In the same way, Norma Mahone will be sadly missed after succumbing to cancer in August. Lori and Al's mother was dedicated to her husband and family, loved life and her God. Heaven's gain is our loss.
With Independence Day looming, family night took on the game show appeal of Who Wants to Be a Million Dollar Christian? with a twist. Regis, AKA Gene, welcomed the audience and interviewed contestant, John Bob. Each patriotic question, from the obvious to the ridiculous, was worth $1/4mil in funny money. John Bob even used both his computer lifeline and polling the audience. However, the last question stumped him--How would he describe his relationship with Jesus? Not sure how to answer, he phoned a friend, Pastor Ray. Too bad, he could not answer FOR him. What is YOUR final answer? We should have a KNOW-SO salvation.
Several parents and children took a day out to visit the St. Louis Zoo on July 2. Orange shirts helped keep everyone in sight. If we could talk to the animals, maybe they'd tell us what they think about their uniqueness; the giraffe's long neck, the elephant's trunk, the zebra's stripes, each with a purpose. Who but God could creat them all and finish with man, in His own image.
Son Force Kids was our Bible School theme July 9-13. Lisa, Dusty, and special agent Pastor Ray set the tone each night. We never knew what disguise Ray would show up in but it was sure NOT to fool anyone! We learned stories of Moses, Esther, and others from the Bible who had a special purpose God equipped them for. The music had a dragnet feel to it that the kids loved. We hope they all went away knowing God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
Capture the Spirit was the theme for our Sunday School picnic on July 15. Fresh off of bible school week, butterflies, fish and nets were place around the sanctuary. And the theme of capturing the Holy Spirit was evident throughout the morning service through songs and the message. The Pettigrew family and Camp Maranatha counselors were welcome guests for the day. The Yoders headed up the grills with ribeyes and hamburgers. After a great meal, kids of all ages enjoyed several outdoor activities, including chalk art and a competitive scavenger hunt, with each clue providing a piece to a very important puzzle. Macklins' then invited all anglers to their pond for fishing. Prizes were given for the smallest and largest fish. At the end of the day our goal was to capture the Spirit, then live and walk in Him daily!
Mission trips don't just happen! Eight members of our church joined with UMYF to serve in flood-damaged Bayou La Batre, AL for a week in July. On Sept 16 the whole group shared about their trip. Building a ramp for a handicapped man, painting school walls, and holding bible school were only a few of their projects. They witnessed firsthand so many families still living in small FEMA trailers and the appreciation of these people for all the help they could get. On their free time, Bev visited the fish market and watched fresh oysters prepared for a ride to IL. These trips are not only life-changing for our youth, but the by the testimonies of our adults, very fulfilling and just what they needed at this time in their lives. Perhaps the most lasting impressions were the hugs that were given and received.
On August 5 the group iPrayz shared their ministry with us. The two couples, who hale from the Effingham area, share music and artistic gifts. The trio sang new and old songs with great harmony and energy. One highlight was during one song the fourth member created a large mural of Christ's face right before our eyes. This was truly a moving service....we pray for iPrayz as they consider fulltime ministry.
Many weeks of preparation and prayer preceded our revival on Sept 6-9. Pastor Ray promoted this as a renewal called Worship Under the Stars. With the cooperation of three other churches, an outdoor sanctuary was set up under a tent on the grounds. Many thanks to all those who donated time, energy and resources to make it so. Each night our choir kicked off the service and Pastor Ray welcomed the Holy Spirit. The evening breeze reminded us of His presence. The night sounds were soothing as God's Word was spoken. Despite the much needed rain that came during the daylight hours nearly every day, we were able to hold services under the tent. The worship team and pastor from each church led a night of worship and teaching on the four aspects of personal growth. Pastor Ray, Steve Williams, Rod Hite and Tom Black covered the areas of power, healing, walking and living in the Spirit. Even on Sunday morning we had services outside where communion was served with emotional prayer times at the straw bale altar. The Holy Spirit rained down on us with a greater desire to share Him and serve Him.
The Sunday morning of Oct 7 we were in for some surprise guests. By all appearances we had a visitation of the "biker" kind, complete with leather, boots, and sunglasses. It didn't take long to learn this motley group was of the Christian kind, by the sound of their singing and participation in praise and worship. Led by Kayla's brother, the men were passing through and Pastor Ray gave them the platform to share about their on-the-road ministry and personal testimony. The preacher of the group held us spell-bound as he paced back and forth proclaiming his personal revival and subsequent evangelistic calling. By no means perfect, he and his band of brothers were forgiven, a message that crosses all walks of life. After the service, they showed off their wheels and shared more stories. You might say they were born to be wild, but God tamed their hearts that His truth could even make the rebel righteous!
We were pleased to host Wycliffe missionaries, Ken and Barb Spragg, on Oct 21. A few years ago our financial support made it's way to their account when it was needed most, and a thank you card was only our first introduction. Ken, a pilot and mechanic, looked up Sheila to provide a portfolio of their ministry after a few months. A short time later he offered to come speak to our people along with his wife who manages the mailroom at JAARS in NC. The couple who are originally from Effingham area, was likable from the start. Their unique presentation helped us all understand the complicated life of a missionary. They asked for a volunteer and Kayla was the perfect stand-in as a missionary wearing many hats. One by one, Ken and Barb would explain all the requirements--first and foremost, daily bible translation, so they handed her a pencil and paper. Student (to learn a foreign language), teacher, computer expert, repairman, builder, dietician, parent and the list went on as they heaped more tools for each trade upon her. It was easy to see what a big job it was, until they asked for help from the congregation, with skills to help lifting that tool over to a partner in the church, or at least pray for needs to be met. Now it was more clear than ever that we can all be missionaries of sorts and share the work of going into all the world to spread the gospel.
Tis the season for Farmers' Day on Oct 28. The theme of the day was the Seasons of Life with the sanctuary taking on the appearance of an art gallery. Large framed pictures of summer, fall, winter, and spring on easels were set up all over the church. The focal point was a spring scene on the communion table symbolizing new life when Christ brings back the springtime to a dreary heart. The prelude included songs of each season then from Eccl came Turn, Turn, Turn, to every season there is a purpose. Great is Thy Faithfulness was the obvious opening hymn, and special music Every Season brought by Kathy summed up God' presence could be seen at all times around and in us. Pastor Ray's message was two-fold. He explained how we adapt to the changes in creation, but we tire and look forward to the next season. We love to see the grass turn green, but we get tired of mowing it. Then he took us through all the life seasons, young to old, and the ups and downs of each time. It's like hills and valleys, and God is with us through them all. We enjoyed a feast after the service and took real live pictures in an open frame to capture the memories of THIS day that the Lord had made.
Our church participated in the community thanksgiving services held the week before the day of thanks. Our worship team provided special music at Sanner Chapel, where the singing is always glorious with the high ceiling of the little country church. As always it is good to hear messages about giving thanks and giving to others. Offerings go to the ministerial alliance to help those in need and operate the local food pantry. You can't help but think of Christmas approaching, it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Before we knew it, it was December and the snow was flying. A very special family night had been planned for the 2nd. Way back in July, the Yoder family had bought fresh oysters on the mission trip for this very evening. We thawed them over several days, then made patties and stew that morning to serve to guests who had been invited to a night of fun and fellowship. The women had decorated earlier in the week so the scene was set for Christmas to begin. A decorated missionary tree was displayed for our monthly offering, God bless them everyone! And the choir had something special planned, fun songs to spread joy all around. After the delicious meal, we all settled in for a nice winter concert and sing-a-long. There was a winter medley, a song about riggin' up the lights, and yes, even one about fruitcake! You had to be there to see what Superman had to do with it! And did you know that everything that Santa knows, he learned from Jesus? Now you and do and that's why we can sing Alleluia, song of gladness!!
Bev and Linda re-created Twas the Night Before Christmas for the Women United party on Dec 7. A fireplace, bed with sugarplum dreams, rocking horse, and window pane to see Santa and his rendeer sleigh made the mood just right. The tables were beautifully decorated with greenery, candles and ornament favors. Dress code was comfortable PJ's, and the children gathered round the tree as Bev read the popular poem to them. We enjoyed soups, sandwiches and desserts not to mention the chatter about shopping and parties yet to attend. We were all so comfortable in flannel, we each got a chance to tell a story about our pajamas and prizes were awarded by our hosts. We had the long-awaited white elephant gifts exchanged, and the best one had to be the bowl made out of an LP record! Money we would have spent on a new gift was collected for the milk fund at the grade schools. We all decided that thrift shops really do have some great treasures! Linda then read Twas the Fight Before Christmas, all about losing the reason for the season. Thanks to our sisters for making a fun night out for the girls!
Winter is showing it's muscles early this year. Each weekend we could expect ice, snow, or cold. But despite cancellations and missed practices, the children put on their program Dec 16 and God smiled. A short play "The Reason Why" was set in an elves' workshop. All the elves were busy finishing up the toys for the good boys and girls and chattering away, while the head elf gruffly kept them on task. As the elves asked each other what was the point of all this, Jingle spoke up about the real reason found in the bible. Carols were sung in between and they all understood what made Christmas so special, a special Baby was born to save us from our sin. The puppets took center stage and everyone got into the act miming Christmas favorites. Thanks to Jerry & Lisa for all the time they spent rehearsing with the kids. Everyone went home with a Christmas treat but the real treat was hearing the story out of the mouths of babes.
Christmas morning 2007 was not just another Sunday morning. Sunday School classes could opt for brunch in the basement, eggnog and spiced cider included. As family after family arrived for worship, piano music filled the sanctuary. As Ring the Bells was played, the candles were lit, the choir filed in and God was there. Eric's family read the advent scripture, Deb gave the children's message of the candy cane, and a gift was given to Pastor Ray and Debbie. Also a new handmade lecturn was in place for Ray, designed by Al of shepherd's hooks and doves. The Christmas message was intertwined between songs by the choir opening with Once Upon a Holy Night. Mary and Joseph had reservations about raising the Son of God but they were just like us, needing only to trust God with their future. The shepherds had an angelic visit announcing His birth, but they just had to believe and obey to find Him. And the wisemen couldn't explain a new star in the sky, but they trusted in something they didn't understand to seek Him. Abby and the children sang "Imagine a World Without Jesus", no Christmas, no angels, no carols. But Jesus IS here and we must share the good news of GREAT joy! That holy night happened once long ago, the rest are anniversaries. Celebrate the Savior born in a manger.
Christmas Eve is a very reverent time to worship. By candlelight, several families joined to honor the coming of the Christ child. Quiet traditional songs, O Holy Night, Away in a Manger, O Come Let Us Adore Him, helped all come into His presence. Nola and Sheila sang Happy Birthday, Jesus and all joined in as we lit His own birthday cake, this Light of the world that never goes out. As the song says, "the presents are nice, but the real gift is YOU!. Then Ray's message was about what our gift could be for Jesus. All He wants is our heart, but He does want ALL of it. Everyone was given a heart shape and before taking communion, each one prayed and laid their heart on the altar. Then we formed a circle of light around the sanctuary from our individual candles and sang Silent Night. Simple, silent, sincere love from our hearts to His. After hugs all around, we went away knowing Christmas was now complete.
We were privileged to share with the retirement home twice in December. On Dec 9 the children's dept sang several carols for the residents. The geese would not be outdone as they came to the windows to join in. Then Ethan, Gretchen and Abby played piano pieces for everyone. Ray shared some thoughts and we greeted many of the listeners. We were very proud of the children's willingness to bring smiles to these folks. We also delivered a dry erase board that had been on their wish list for the activity room to be used for word games. Again on Dec 30 we brought good cheer to these folks. We sang the Real 12 Days of Christmas and Jesus Christ is Comin' to Town, acapella to their delight by the looks on their faces. It IS a joy to share JESUS.
Our church was the setting for the Eagle Scout Court of Honor on Dec 30. Trenton Wiseman received his eagle award with many family and friends looking on. The colors were presented and Erika Dowd sang God Bless America. All the scouts were rewarded with badges for their activities in 2007. Several men praised Trenton for his accomplishments, including our layleader John Bob who told personal stories on Trenton then quoting Micah 6:8 which parallels the scout oath. The eagle scout challenge was delivered by his brother, Nick, also an eagle scout. Trenton would be the first in line to thank his parents Jerry & Lisa for their help and encouragement. The North Park gazebo erected in memory of longtime leader Howard Burns will be even more appreciated because of Trenton's landscape plans and hard work. What a pleasure to see young boys turning into men by doing their best for God and country.
