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▪ MISSIONS MINISTRY▪ CHRISTIAN WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP▪ YOUNG AT HEART▪ CHILDREN AND YOUTH From The Pastor's Pen....August, 2016 By: Rev. Dr. J. Keith
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By: Rev. Dr. J. Keith Brown
Worry
WORRY. Such a short, simple word and yet, one that is all too familiar to most of us The student worries about the upcoming math test. The employee worries about his upcoming evaluation with his boss. The Sunday Scripture reader worries about fumbling over words or getting lost in the reading. And then there are some who worry about a medical test result. In truth...worry is as part of life for many as is breathing itself.
But what does God's Word tell us. In Matthew 6, Jesus clearly says that we are not to worry. Simply look at the birds in the air on the grasses in the field and notice how God takes care of each. Jesus speaks the same to us. In fact, he concludes this section with this statement in verse 34: “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.”
So, from this teaching of Christ from the Gospel, let me suggest the following lessons:
Don't beat yourself up if you do worry. Worry comes easier to some and for these folks, they often feel they are less spiritual or weaker in faith. This really isn't true. Some who naturally worry, even though they try very hard not to and fail, are often very strong and loving followers of Christ. So...don't beat yourself up if you worry...just try to let more of it go. That is part of growing.
Worry does nothing. My son is a champion at this and I admire his ability to not sweat stuff. He often says, “It will be what it will be.” Pretty good point. The truth of his statement echoes that of Christ when he says that worry accomplishes nothing other than to perhaps send us to our knees in earnest prayer...or the hospital with a heart attack.
Know that God is in control. Either we believe that or we don't.
“I am inwardly fashioned for faith, not for fear. Fear is not my native land; faith is. I am so made that worry and anxiety are sand in the machinery of life; faith is the oil. I live better by faith and confidence than by fear, doubt and anxiety. In anxiety and worry, my being is gasping for breath--these are not my native air. But in faith and confidence, I breathe freely--these are my native air. A John Hopkins University doctor says, "We do not know why it is that worriers die sooner than the non- worriers, but that is a fact." But I, who am simple of mind, think I know; We are inwardly constructed in nerve and tissue, brain cell and soul, for faith and not for fear. God made us that way. To live by worry is to live against reality.”
Dr. E. Stanley Jones, Transformed by Thorns, p. 95.
May God bless you as you try each new day to better live without worry and anxiety.
Blessings,
Pastor Keith |
PRAYER CHAIN NEWS—
If you have not yet signed up,please check the box located on the communication sheet in your bulletin. (If you have already signed up there is no need to sign up again) Emails will go out via internet and for those of you who do not have a computer/email, we will notify you via the phone tree. Please be aware your prayer requests from the Sunday Bulletin will be shared on the prayer chain. If you have a prayer request of a personal nature, please come to the Pastor with your request; do not put it on the comment section of your bulletin. You MUST sign up to be included on the prayer chain. We will not automatically put you on without your permission because of legalities. If you would like to be included in this new Prayer Chain List, please check the box on the communication insert in your bulletin or you may email:stpaulsreformed@gmail.com, call: 828-465-0931, or contact us through our facebook page. |
NEW!!
CONTEMPORARY
PRAISE & WORSHIP SERVICE !!
FEATURING OUR NEW PRAISE
COORDINATOR: ADAM ROSE
Please come and join us every Monday Night at 7 PM.
A time of Praise & Worship with a brief message by Pastor Keith. This is open to everyone in the community! If you belong to another church, this is a great opportunity to come and see what we are all about or just come and
join us for worship! This is a casual service, come as you are!! This is an exciting time to be at St. Paul’s Reformed Church!! |
AUGUST BIRTHDAYS
▪ 2 LINDA SWEET
▪ 4 JO ANNE BEARD
▪ 5 RODNEY BOST
▪ 6 ANN BURGIN
▪ 7 WAYNE MUELLER
▪ 11 CAROLYN STILES
▪ 13 MICHAEL JARRETT
▪ 16 CHELSEI JOHNSON
▪ 16 CRISTY DETTER
▪ 17 JERRY SWEET
▪ 18 CLAUDE SIMMONS
▪ 25 ERNIE FRINDT
▪ 26 HARRY HIGHT
▪ 27 JAMES WHITE
▪ 31 JONATHAN HEFFELFINGER
▪ 31 LARRY WATTS
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AUGUST ANNIVERSARIES
▪ 13 JAMES & YOUN WHITE
▪ 14 PAUL & MARY WOODS
▪ 21 MICHAEL & JANE DAVIS
▪ 21 STEVE & ANGIE DAVIS
▪ 21 DAVID & CHELSEI JOHNSON
▪ 24 JERRY & AUDREY DEAL
▪ 26 ARNOLD & MARI LYNN SAIN
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HEAR AND SEE THE MESSAGE AGAIN!
If you would like a DVD copy of the
worship services at
St. Paul’s please contact
Donna Rudolph at stpaulsreformed@gmail.com or
please contact the church office at 465-0931
or you may watch the Worship Service on our You Tube channel stpaulsreformed or on our website St. Paul's Reformed Church |
Prayer Requests
may be sent to the Church Office:
stpaulsreformed@gmail.com or you may call 828-465-0931
You may also call Donna Rudolph at 828-638-8856
We now have a phone tree prayer chain for updates (for those of you who do not have a computer or receive email.) If you would like to be included in this, please contact Donna. Office hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs. 9 AM-3 PM and Fri. 9 AM-4 PM or you may leave a message. |
Consistory Notes…
St. Paul’s Reformed Church Consistory Meeting
July 18, 2016
Present: Steve Deitz, Bobby Stiles, Gina Lutz, Sandy Stillwell, Robin Caldwell, Larry Kiziah, Anita Deal and Pastor Keith Brown.
Prayer requests were presented and the meeting was opened with prayer.
Minutes from June 20 meeting were read and approved. Members were also presented with the minutes of the Congregational meeting on June 26.
Pastor’s report was received.
Financial report was received.
Old business:
The copy of the changes to the Constitution and Staff Handbook that were discussed last month have been edited and will be proofed a final time.
Members were encouraged to begin looking for a 15 passenger van. Any possible leads should be directed to Steve Deitz.
With the creation of an Associate Pastor position with emphasis in the area of senior adults, and Rick Crotts filling that position, the congregation will soon vote concerning the ordination of Rick.
Motion was made and passed to add PayPal button to St. Paul’s website for the purpose of donations if there is no charge to the church for this service.
New business:
There will be a budget meeting on Tuesday, August 16, at 6:30PM to plan the 2017 budget.
The next scheduled meeting of the Consistory is Monday, August 15, at 8:15PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Anita Deal |
BROTHERHOOD BREAKFAST
AUGUST 7, 8 AM
ALL MEN ARE INVITED TO ATTEND! |
JOIN THE BARNABAS TEAM
IS A CARD MINISTRY THAT WELCOMES EVERYONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO COME. IF YOU HAVE SOMEONE IN NEED OF ENCOURAGEMENT AND WOULD LIKE THEM TO RECEIVE A CARD, PLEASE SEE MARTHA HEADRICK. THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE AUGUST 17TH AT 9 AM. |
NEW…
Intercessory Prayer & Anointing
will begin on Monday,
August 8th at 6:30 PM.
Do you have a need?
Do you need healing and anointing? Please see
Candace Childers for more
information. |
SIGN UP TO
PUT FLOWERS ON THE ALTAR!
If you would like to place flowers on the altar in honor or memory of someone, please sign-up outside the church office. Fill out an information sheet located in the hallway beside the calendar and place in the secretary’s box in the narthex or in the box on the office door. Please note: St. Paul’s uses ABC Florist at (828) 466-1234 or Lester Lane at (704) 462-2406. If you would like to contact them for your needs, we have made arrangements with them for delivery. You may call them or you may use a florist of your choice. If you are going to use your own florist, please call the church office to make arrangements for delivery. (PLEASE... Be sure to sign the flower chart/calendar in the hallway outside of the office to secure your date for flowers) |
Instant Church Directory Mobile App
NEW FEATURE!!!!!
All of our church members/visitors can now view our church directory from your iPhone, iPad, Android or Kindle Fire by downloading the free Instant Church Directory Members App. All members/visitors need to do is to search for "Instant Church Directory" in the Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Appstore, or go directly to this link:
http://www.instantchurchdirectory.com/app
You will be able to access all of our church member/visitor information, including names, addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, birthdays and anniversaries.
(Please Note: you will be asked to make an account with your email and a password) |
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
on August 7, 2016 after the 10 AM worship service. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the ordination of Rick Crotts. As Rick is transitioning to the position of Associate Pastor in charge of senior adults, ordination would allow him flexibility in his duties and in his ability
to assist Pastor Keith.
BUDGET MEETING
There will be a budget meeting to formulate the 2017 budget on August 16 and on August 23 at 6:30 PM. Please note, if the entire budget gets addressed on August 16 there will not be a meeting on August 23. Any group head that would like to provide a monetary request for their group is asked to get that information to Jeanne Jarrett prior to August 16. |
WEDNESDAY NIGHT FELLOWSHIP
AUGUST 10TH
Menu: A Salad Bar with Chicken and Baked Potato, Beverage and Dessert Price is $4.00 Meal will begin at 5:30 PM
Program:
Bingo! Fun for Everyone!
Please sign up by Monday, AUGUST 7TH or at the latest by 10 am on Wednesday, AUGUST 10TH for an accurate meal count. You may also call the Church office---465-0931. You may also sign up on the sheet on the easel in the Narthex if you would like to bring dessert. Desserts are appreciated! Please plan to be a part of this wonderful time of food, fun and fellowship!! Tear off the reservation form and place in the box marked WNF in the Narthex. |
MISSIONS MINISTRY REPORT
By: Nancy Long
There was no July Missions Ministry Meeting, the next meeting will be August 7, immediately following the Congregational Meeting. |
The Corner Table Needs for AUGUST
TOMATO SAUCE, FRUIT CUPS,
PUDDING CUPS,
SPAGHETTIO ’S
Please place all items in the cart located in the Narthex. Thank you for your continued support! |
ATTENTION:
The quality of life inside the womb is as important and precious to the Lord as quality of life after birth. The Pregnancy Care Center exists to share those values with each of its clients.
The Pregnancy Care Center -- Hickory has had:
--- 15 women make decisions to CHOOSE LIFE for their unborn babies in the past 6 months!
---9 ladies accepted Jesus into their hearts
---9 ladies rededicated their lives
PRAISE THE LORD for the lives, both tiny and adult, that have been saved!!
The PCC has had more than 1100 visits from clients since January 2016; this included ladies receiving counseling, participating in Bible Study, getting ultra sound, receiving supplies, etc.
For your information, The PCC has an ongoing Bible Study for its clients who wish to participate.
The PCC asks that you keep clients and families, staff, and volunteers in prayer.
Churches and Friends
of the Pregnancy Care Center--
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Churches and Friends of the
Pregnancy Care Center--
Many thanks to those who have contributed to the Pregnancy Care Center.
It is important that these mothers feel valued and loved, and St. Paul's is so kind to remember these young families. The PCC is delighted to receive new or gently used baby clothing or accessories from newborn to size 2. Please place items in the narthex cart. Thank you very much
SPECIAL NEEDS:
▪ Summer Outfits (12-24 months sizes)
▪ Light Weight Sleepers
▪ Socks
▪ Crib Sheets
▪ Bouncy Seats
▪ New Car Seats
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FROM OUR MISSIONARIES…
By: Mary Woods
Mark & Roxanne Johnson Indiana Univ. CRU
Kyla, Eden
Our summer assignment is a much needed Sabbatical, which is 30 days. We are excited to take time to refresh and take time to focus on our Lord and meet others. We have set up a schedule that will refresh both of us. I have been pursueing my Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. I have enjoyed the classes throughout the year, and will finish a semester worth of content in 1 wk. with test. A lot of work but I have learned a lot. Kyla is 3 1/2 and Eden is 18 mos. old. We are thankful for all you do for us. Many Blessings.
Mark and Natasha Palmer Central Asia CRU
Emily, Jessica, Elizabeth
Long time since we wrote and much has happened. God did much and we are thankful to see how He continues to bring people into His family. I've worked with a group of guys, all different, talented and special. I see many making poor choices, but God is gracious and merciful. This year over 1,000 students heard the Gospel and 59 made decisions for Christ. Our girls finished another academic year successfully and Natasha had some opportunities to witness to Moms she meets. Please pray for our family and our future. Pray for wisdom for our 3 girls' future. Also pray for new Staff and some will be raising support. We are blessed to know that our God is the author and protector of our Faith, His will be done in His timing. We thank you for your love and support. |
Serving God Through Serving Others
All ladies of the church are invited to attend the Christian Women's Fellowship as we develop a closer relationship with God, make Him known to others, and fellowship with each other. |
The CWF will meet on Sunday, August 7, at 8 AM. Please join us for this breakfast meeting including devotions and service opportunities at our church. |
WHAT A MOVING EXPERIENCE…
It is to prepare the elements for Holy Communion. Donna Deitz is blessed with this opportunity for August Communion. |
B-I-N-G-O
Abernethy Laurels
Wednesday, August 10
2:30-3:30 PM
Thanks to the Youth and children of St. Paul’s for helping at bingo in June. After bingo, the bingo helpers enjoyed a visit with Geraldine in her room. What a delightful afternoon! |
HAPPY BIRTHDAY,
JERRYSWEET!
Jerry Sweet will be celebrating a special birthday on August 17th. Please join the CWF as we shower him with cards and/or other forms of birthday wishes. Cards may be sent to:
Jerry Sweet
1763 Jarrett Farm Road Newton, NC 28658 |
THANKS…
To all who have already signed the 2016-2017 Service Booklet as a commitment to serve at St. Paul’s. Your willingness to help is deeply appreciated! |
BRICK ORDERS
Have been received and will be taken to the monument company soon for engraving. |
NEW MEMBER RECEPTION…
Three new members who joined St. Paul’s in February were honored at a reception on July 17. Welcome to the family, Faye Wolters, Claude Simmons, and Jerry Gene Jenkins. You are loved! |
2016-2017 CWF SERVICE BOOKLET…
Is available. Some of the service opportunities include hosting showers or receptions for graduation or new members, preparing Communion, helping with Chicken ‘n dumpling’ fundraiser, cleaning the old church for our 2 annual service, decorating for Christmas, devotions at a meeting, helping with Christmas party or ice cream social, or volunteering at ECCCM or The Corner Table. Let’s work together to bless and be blessed! |
“Today you are the oldest you have ever been, yet the youngest You will ever be, so enjoy this day which the Lord has made.”
St. Paul’s Young at Heart Group is open to anyone in the church age 50 or over. You do not have to be a member of the church to participate in any of the activities. So plan to join us this year as we share the love, joy, and fellowship of Christ. |
SPECIAL AUGUST BIRTHDAYS...
Let’s shower Jerry Sweet with birthday cards on August 17th. Send them to:
Jerry Sweet
1763 Jarrett Farm Road Newton, NC 28658 |
B-I-N-G-O…
At Abernethy Laurels is on Wednesday, August 10 at 2:30 PM. Your help in assisting the residents with the bingo games is greatly appreciated. Children and grandchildren are welcome. |
The Young at Heart
will be viewing the murals at Mt. Grove Baptist Church and meeting the artist on Thursday August 4 at 11am. Everyone is to meet at the church at 10:15 AM.
Lunch will follow. . |
ROAD TRIP…
So much information about the many inspiring programs at Samaritan’s Purse was presented to the 16 Young at Heart members who traveled to Boone on July 13. From the International Crisis Relief delivering food, water, medical care, and other life-saving relief to the U.S. Disaster Relief with their nationwide network of Christian Volunteers who work tirelessly to clear debris and make emergency repairs, all done in the name and love of Jesus. Physical as well as spiritual needs are dealt with by Samaritan’s Purse as the survivors are helped to deal with unspeakable grief and loss.
Not only is Samaritan’s Purse ministering to needs during time of crisis, but there are ongoing programs dealing with feeding, medical issues, construction, water, sanitation and hygiene, women’s programs, children’s programs, animals, agriculture, operation heal our patriots, discipleship, education, training, and, most familiar to St. Paul’s, Operation Christmas Child or Shoeboxes.
Please pray for this organization as they try to be a good Samaritans as presented to us in God’s Gospel of Luke. |
SENIOR EXPO AT METRO CENTER…
Please join the Young at Heart as we gather information on healthcare, professional services, and other related topics for seniors. There will also be complimentary food samples, giveaways, health screening, and bingo.
This 5th Annual Prime of Life Senior Expo will be at Hickory Metro Convention Center. Watch your bulletin for the date and time. |
YOUTH WORK DAY
The Youth will have a big work day 8/11. Youth & any body that wants to help as we refresh the basketball court. Starting at 8:30/9:00. We'll have lunch and some games too. Wear your old clothes & come prepared to work. |
Summer blessings!
The Crawdads Making a Difference Monday— Is a Crawdads event scheduled for Monday, August 1, 2016. The gates open at 5:30 pm and the game begins at 7:00 pm. Admittance for the game is free with a $5.00 or more donation of baby items to the Pregnancy Care Center. We so appreciate the many ways you support this ministry.
Also, please mark your calendars for Thursday, September 15, 2015 at 7:00 pm for “A Celebration of Life, Love, & Laughter”-An evening of theater featuring ACTS OF RENEWAL.
In His Love,
Janet Shores RN |
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