Prayers, Praises and News

2009 FIC NEWSLETTER UPDATES

JULY 19 UPDATE

Cool weather has descended upon us midsummer which for some is a welcome relief and for others a nuisance. Isn't it interesting that we humans find it difficult to be happy, not to mention full of joy, with the blessings God has for us. We always seem to find something, no matter how trivial, that would make it better for us or those we love. Today, rain or shine, warm or chilly, fruitful or frustrating, thank God for life.

Scott taught the class today focusing on Leviticus, which in Greek and Hebrew means He Called. This book, as the third book in the Hebrew Bible/Torah, marks the beginning of their relationship with God with the appointment of Aaron as priest and beginning to set some societal structures and expectations, rights and responsibilities over which Aaron then others would govern in the flesh. In the larger context, Leviticus demonstrates that we need God to help give us structure for our lives.

Scott pointed out that this one book has 613 laws in it for us to abide by, amid very vocal commentary from a variety of class members about the purpose and goals for and of those laws. There are, of course, hundreds if not thousands more throughout the Old Testament. Aren't we glad Christ came to fulfill all of those for us and be the role model for the rest of humanity.

The flowers in the sanctuary today were from Joye's garden and were absolutely lovely. What a blessing to have such gifted gardeners in our group!

Marilyn Fightmaster's piano offertory of "Fairest Lord Jesus" brought awe and inspiration, and the choir anthem "Jesus Shall Reign" kept the sanctuary engaged in an uplifted and worshipful place. How wonderful that God has blessed our church with such amazing and gifted musicians.

Patsey provided the sermon today "Encouragement Changes Everything" and demonstrated her gift of encouragement to all those listening. A gift of the Holy Spirit, encouragement isn't simply "You Go Girl!" but demands so much more of us to give to those around us. The gift of encouragement includes:

1. Encouraging with your prayers--having the strength to make prayer cone through guidance and will to do what God needs us to do to make his will happen. An attitude that God is not working alone but is working in and through us as his vessels.
2. Encouraging through your presence--being present physically and mentally to give hope, thanks, words of praise and help.
3. Encouraging through your participation--sharing and fellowship in the word, finding solutions, fear and frustration of doing the work together.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• August 29 is the Women's Ministry Fall Luncheon. Mark your calendars!
• July 30 the Women's Ministry is hosting a dinner at the Hope House for those staying there while being treated for cancer. Contact Phyllis Combs pacombs1@windstream.net to participate.
• August 16 the Freemans will share their experiences in Rio de Janeiro with the class. Don't miss it!
• August 12 is the church-wide picnic on the green
• Limestone will be closed well into the fall from Euclid to Vine Street, so the Limestone entrances to the church will be inaccessible.
• Volunteers are needed to work at the medical and dental missions. Contact Patsey to volunteer.
• 40 Days of Love series will begin in Sunday School on October 4.

JULY 12 UPDATE

Summer has finally arrived and today it seems like with vengeance. It is hot, humid and very very bright. But that sunshine and that heat and that humidity have a purpose in our world so we are thankful He sends them. And we are thankful when he moderates the temperatures some, lowers the humidity, and gives us a breeze. Enjoy summer!

Bill taught the class today, continuing Ben's foray into Deuteronomy 16:1-8, which focuses on God's embedding of traditions among his people in order to remind them that they are God's chosen, that God cares about them, and that He delivers them. Traditions are a way of building community, building sense, building culture that makes us feel safe, comfortable, and valued. We can take them to levels God never intended, and create exclusionary sects that go against God's' purpose of salvation for all, and we must guard against letting our traditions give us reason to judge the traditions that others know, and judge them for not knowing ours. Patience to teach and embrace are the keys to evangelism, not prejudice and condemnation. Tribalism hides our light under the proverbial bushel, rather than letting it shine forth.

Shine this week!

The topic for the 11am service today was wrestling. Not something I do a lot of...or ever cared to...at least physically. Now mental wrestling I am a champ at...not so much with others but with myself and with God!! Others may call it overthinking??

Anyway, Robin lost at thumb-wrestling during the Children's Sermon, the choir did an outstanding rendition of "On Jordan's Stormy Banks" and Dr. Baker  asked us if we'd ever been defeated by God.

Interesting concept. We don't normally think of God wrestling with us, although we frequently see us as human beings wrestling with His purpose. We are the adversaries and he patiently with perfect grace waits us to "get over our mad" and get on with it. (sorry...family joke that does not bear going into). But in this instance, God came to be Jacob's adversary and to defeat him for his own good. To give him the grace that only God can give...freely...openly...totally.

Hmmmm.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• July 13-17 Soccer Camp from 9-12noon at Macedonia Christian
• July 17 or 18 FIC Social Dinner and a Play: Meet up at Cheddars on Tates Creek at 6pm, then go to see "Forever Patsy Cline" at the Studio Players Carriage House performance at 8pm. Tickets available by phone or on the web at www.studioplayers.com. For dinner reservations on Friday let Doris know if you are coming. For dinner reservations on Saturday let Denise know you're coming.
• July 18 College Ministry to Reds Game
• July 19 8:30am012:30pm Blood Drive
• July 20-24 Basketball Camps
• August 1-8 ROC Closed for cleaning. Volunteers welcome!
• Aug 12 Church Picnic on the Green
• July 30 the Women's Ministry will host dinner at the HOPE Lodge. Please let us know if you can help with food and socializing by contacting Phyllis Combs at pacombs1@windstream.net

JUNE 28 UPDATE

Greetings and Salutations FIC Members, and Happy Nearly Fourth of July!!!

It is that time of the summer when we heat things up a bit (like hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans and firecrackers) and come together to celebrate the great freedoms and joy being part of this great country brings to even the least of our fellow citizens. Take some time to reflect on God's plan for our country, for our church, for our class, for our families, and for ourselves as the freedom inherent in being an American allows us all to not only think about it, but act upon it for His glory.

Benita led us last Sunday as we continued with the Exodus study and the Israelites being blessed by God to move forward with His plan for their safety, their futures, and a permanent home for their nation. Were they elated at this new opportunity? Were their eyes fixed forward toward the column of fire that was God? Or did God have to put a huge reminder out in front of them (and we know how much humans like to watch fire...we are all nearly pyromaniacs!) so their eyes would remain forward-facing?

Was their fear of leaving their comfort zone, or was their fear for the dangers that may lay ahead? As one they harrassed Moses to convince Pharoah, yet when they started moving forward, they blamed Moses for getting them into this mess. How often do we do the same when we see God's plan for our lives and for whatever reason things start to move in a direction we hadn't anticipated (God-breathed or Human-manipulated) do we blame God for not seeing this barrier when He started you down this path. Not our fault, right???After all, who's omniscient here??

So...all this rambling to say let's consider those ancient Israelites who began in hope and gave in to fear; those founders of our country who began in inspiration and hope and founded a country whose goals are freedom to worship God and live together in harmony; and consider those of us today (leaders and followers) who are trying to live together in peace and harmony in a world that is increasingly global and at odds. As Benita concluded the lesson: The heart of the Gospel is DON'T BE AFRAID!! God will deliver you.

The only thing to fear is fear itself-- Franklin Delano Roosevelt in his first inaugural address

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• July 3 is the Transylvania Fourth of July Concert/Celebration at Morrison Hall on the Transy Campus. Please join us to sing, celebrate and praise God for this wonderful nation. Come after 5pm and look for FIC on the right side facing the stage. Jazz begins at 5:30 and Patriotic music at 8pm. Bring chairs, blankets, picnic or food to share, and join the fun!
• This week our youth through 5th grade at at Creative Arts Camp.
• Youth are at Passort in North Carolina at Wingate
• Sunday was Doris and Bill's 34th Wedding Anniversary. Whew!
• A sheet was passed around to sign up for watering the prayer garden as it needs to have consistent moisture after moving and replanting last month. Please contact Kathy if you want to volunteer.

 JUNE 21 UPDATE

Greetings, Friends in Christ. I hope everyone is having a great week and enjoying the sunshine (although not the heat index!)

Sunday Bill continued the study in Exodus with chapters 5:1 to 6:1 with a lively discussion about authority, looking at it two ways: those in authority and those under authority.  I was pleased that my name did not come up, given that my husband was teaching, but Benita's willingness and expertise as a leader came up often. The movie Defiance was recommended to illustrate this concept in several regards. Someone mentioned that those harboring the Jews actually prayed at one point for this "blessing" to be taken from them because it was too great. I assume (not having seen the movie yet as it's not at the dollar movie/box) the responsibility was great, the stress that responsibility caused was great, the fear was great, the coordination was great and much much more. We often take the role of a victim in our lives, seeing only those things that cause us discomfort, when most of the time our discomforts are so minor compared to so many others'. In my view, this is why it is so important to have a missions mindset. Keeps giving me a reality check!

My favorite benediction was sung yet again. I just nearly swoon when I hear the choir doing such an incredibly blended rendition of The Lord Bless You and Keep You. He does...each and every day.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• The Nada, KY mission trip has been changed to one day on Saturday, July 11 from 9am to 4pm. A yard sale and community cookout are planned. If you have housegold goods to donate, please being them to church.
• Vacation Bible School is going on this week. Help out if you can!
• Glenn gave the Deacon report and mentioned that the ending cash balance is the lowest it's been in four years. It is 1% down from last year.
• October Sunday Schools will begin a 40 days of Love study.
• On a Sunday in August Kevin will be ordained. More to come on date/time.
• The Medical Clinic needs volunteers, particularly on Mondays. Call Benita if you can volunteer.
• The Freemans reported that the Brazil trip went off beautifully and passed around a composite of pictures taken and put together by Jean Cravens.
• Benita also mentioned that some of the dates on the God's Pantry signup sheet were incorrect. If you are signed up, please check with her before showing up.

JUNE 7 UPDATE

Greetings all! What more could we ask for from our Lord than gorgeous sunshine, cool temperatures (mostly), low humidity and a spring breeze! He has blessed us for nearly a week with this environment and our class took full advantage of it by working for half a day on Saturday in the Memory Garden beside the ROC. We cleaned out weeds, trimmed bushes and perennials, took out overgrown plants, planted new ones, divided old ones, and mulched before cleaning up and standing back to enjoy our work. However, we can arrange, plant, divide, water, nurture what God gives but only He can create the beauty that is genetically instilled into these lovely flowers. Take a moment the next time you are at church and walk through the Memory Garden. It's lovely!

Ben led us this morning as we launched into our study of Exodus. The story of Moses, from his frightening near miss from death in infancy to his adoption as Pharoah's son and the privilege that afforded him to exile tells us he faced many ups and downs but still was completely unprepared (he thought) for what God asked when He decided to "let his people go". Moses negotiated with God, refused to see how his life had prepared him for this unlikely prospect, was hardly an orator, yet in faith he obeyed and led God's people across the Red Sea and into the desert.

Like Moses, many times we ask "Why Me, Lord?" We fail to see how the unique circumstances and experiences God gives us prepare us to do His will. We look right past the burning bush and may curiously remark on it, but move on without really seeing God in our everyday surroundings. Do we hear God speak in circumstances, being confirmed by scripture or by others whom we trust?

In 11am service, the choir's rendition of the offertory was a beautiful blend of voices lending the serenity of worship before Dr. Baker's sermon "Your Emotional Bank Account: Deposits to Make". Bob began with telling the story about a wedding that took place in the midst of one of the worst storms in Texas that year. But it was the love of the people who braved the storm to attend, and the work everyone went to as plans for what was to be an outdoor wedding had to be moved indoors. It's the people with whom we have close and loving relationships, through which we experience and worship God the Father, Son and Spirit that make our lives worthwhile. A metaphor for those relationships is a bank account, and the "deposits" we need to pay close attention to are:
Understand individual relationships with those to whom you are committed. What seems like a deposit to you might actually be a withdrawal for the one to whom we wish to demonstrate love. That vacuum cleaner for your wife's birthday, or even your husband's, is not likely to be considered a balance builder!
Build up the balance by keeping your promises. Honor your commitments to those you love and to those to whom you've made a promise. This creates a stable, loving, trustworthly relationship that can survive a tremendous amount of hardship.
Demonstrate personal integrity by being honest. You know deep in your heart whether you have lovingly and faithfully made the deposits that are necessary to keep a positive balance in your "account".

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Mike and Jean announced that Jill and Ryan Davis, longtime beau and son of Carol and Steve Davis. A December wedding is planned and it looks like several showers may take place before then.
• Tuesday is the last Business Person's Lunch featuring Mike Kane, president of Voice for Humanity.
• A sign-up sheet was passed around to bring food for Bible Study Teachers at VBC June 22-26.
• This weekend is again the UK gala It's a Grand Night for Singing. David Owen said he would be going on Friday and anyone that wishes to join him would be welcome.
• Congraulations to Deacons Bill Buzo and Ben Carr.
• Calvary Women's Ministry Bible Study begins June 16 at Joye's at 9am. This time the study is a Beth Moore study of Esther.
• God's Pantry is being manned by our class this Tuesday.
• Maurine's family has asked for donations in memory of her mother be made to the Calvary Communion Committee to purchase new trays or polish the old ones, whichever is more expedient, for the church.
• The pack of note cards of David Owens' painting of the Perlington Church is $6 and available from Joye

MAY 24 UPDATE

Hello, and Happy Memorial Day!

When our fellow classmates chose the order of teaching our lessons, Scott drew the lesson which is very often taken out of context, Ephesians 5:22-33, beginning, “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord….” Thank you, Scott, for sharing your time to lead this lesson. In the proper context, this lesson is about mutual relationships of love, honor, care, respect, and yes, obedience.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Wednesday night this week, May 27, is the last Wednesday Night Fellowship until Wednesday, August 12, the date for the Church Picnic.
• Business Person’s Lunch will host Mike Kane, founder of Voice of Humanity. Serving begins at 11:45 am.
• Next Sunday evening, May 31, is the viewing of FIREPROOF, a marriage enrichment resource. The movie will immediately follow the dinner which begins at 5:30 pm. Sign by visiting the church website, www.calvarybaptistchurch.com.

The tradition of Memorial Day is to honor and remember those who served our country through the personal sacrifice of death on the battlefield or as a result of wounds suffered during battle. This day began after the Civil War when people visited the grave sites of soldiers from the North and South to recognize their service and sacrifice. Today, this day is for all military personnel who died serving this country. [As a contrast, Veterans’ Day, November 11, is the day set aside to honor all military personnel, living and past, who serve our country, a day we thank them for their service.] May we always remember, what we have does not come to us without past and current sacrifice.
 
As a part of each military funeral, the final call a soldier makes is the bugle call of Taps. Here is a summary of the history and origin of this most recognized bugle solo (unless you are a native Kentucky bluegrass blueblood):
History of Taps

By Rod Powers, About.com
Of all the military bugle calls, none is so easily recognized or more apt to render emotion than Taps1. Up to the Civil War, the traditional call at day's end was a tune, borrowed from the French, called Lights Out. In July of 1862, in the aftermath of the bloody Seven Days battles, hard on the loss of 600 men and wounded himself, Union General Daniel Adams Butterfield called the brigade bugler to his tent. He thought "Lights Out" was too formal and he wished to honor his men.

Oliver Wilcox Norton, the bugler, tells the story, "...showing me some notes on a staff written in pencil on the back of an envelope, (he) asked me to sound them on my bugle. I did this several times, playing the music as written. He changed it somewhat, lengthening some notes and shortening others, but retaining the melody as he first gave it to me. After getting it to his satisfaction, he directed me to sound that call for Taps thereafter in place of the regulation call. The music was beautiful on that still summer night and was heard far beyond the limits of our Brigade. The next day I was visited by several buglers from neighboring Brigades, asking for copies of the music which I gladly furnished. The call was gradually taken up through the Army of the Potomac."

This more emotive and powerful Taps was soon adopted throughout the military. In 1874 It was officially recognized by the U.S. Army. It became standard at military funeral ceremonies in 1891. There is something singularly beautiful and appropriate in the music of this wonderful call. Its strains are melancholy, yet full of rest and peace. Its echoes linger in the heart long after its tones have ceased to vibrate in the air.

The origin of the word "Taps" is thought to have come from the Dutch word for "Tattoo"- "Taptoe." More than likely, "Taps" comes from the three drum taps that were played as a signal for "Extinguish Lights" when a bugle was not used. As with many other customs, the twenty-four notes that comprise this solemn tradition began long ago and continue to this day.

While there are no official lyrics for Taps, the following unofficial verse (author unknown) is often used:

Fading light dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar drawing nigh -- Falls the night.

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky;
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Then good night, peaceful night,
Till the light of the dawn shineth bright;
God is near, do not fear -- Friend, good night.

Above Information Courtesy of United States Army Center for Military History2

MAY 10 UPDATE

Bill led us in a study of Ephesians again, as Paul writes to the gentiles in Ephasus. We learned from Margie that Ephesus was five times the size of Lexington, which certainly surprised me. As, I believe, do many of you, I picture all ancient day cities as more like towns but those in heavy commercialized areas such as ports, of course grew much larger.

Announcements

• Today is Mother's Day...honor your mother in memory, thought or deed
• The church will show the marriage enrichment-centered movie FIREPROOF on May 31 to follow a supper of chili and hot dogs, followed by antacids.
• Sunday, May 17, will be Business Session. Lunch will be $3.
• This Friday and Saturday is the Calvary Women's Ministry Spring Luncheon. Please be in prayer that every attendee and worker is touched by the Holy Spirit as we learn to Walk with Purpose!

MAY 3 UPDATE

Ben taught today out of Ephesians, reminding us we were "signed, sealed, delivered" to God with His seal...and though John King was absent, Jim Smith tried to fill his shoes commenting on the predestined aspect of this verse, often quoted as the basis for the once saved, always saved tenet of our faith.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Donations are needed for the Brazil Mission Trip. A list of items is at the end of this email.
• Tickets and t-shirts for the Calvary Women's Ministry Conference are available between Sunday School and the service. It will be a terrific conference, with lots of time to fellowship, share, and learn together. Register right away!

As we pray for the country's economic situation, remember as well those that work one-on-one with those who have lost jobs, as they too are struggling with agencies that have been cut drastically while their work load has increased dramatically.

Today's services were led by college students and recent graduates who blessed us with their insights during the children's sermon, their testimonies, their musical talents. Robin's sermon reminded us how blessed we are to have the opportunity to experience the world with and through their eyes...working frantically to complete school work struggling (just as we do) to be still and know God.

BRAZIL MISSION DONATIONS NEEDED
Dizie Cup
Water Color Sets
Paint Brushes
Crayons
Markers, Scissors
Multicolor Construction paper
Black construction paper
Popsicle sticks
Small sea shells
Tissue paper (blue, green, red, pink, orange)
Cellophane (blue, green)
Wax paper (several rolls)
Clear Contact paper 9 (several rolls)
9" Dixie paper plates
Thin paper plates
Goldfish crackers
Glue-on eyes
Zip lock baggies
12 hole punchers

APRIL 26 UPDATE

Greetings! These have certainly been days made by the Lord in which we should delight! Sun, cool breezes, the world springing to life around us almost as we watch. What could be better!

Bill taught this week, leading the class in the study of John Chapters 20 and Acts 4.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• July 8-11 is a missions opportunity church wide in Nada, Kentucky which is in Powell County. There will be a yard sale, crafts, backyard Bible studies, and a reverse mission trip where we bring Nada residents to the big city (Lexington?). Cost is $30 per person and if you are interested please contact Patsey Jacobs: patsey@calvarybaptistchurch.com
• May 3 is College Graduate and Summer Missionary Recognition as well as the Connect with Calvary class at 9:45 in the Fireside Room.
• Friday, May 8 is the Spring Fling Parent's night out for birth-grade 5 from 6-9pm.
• Sunday, May 10 is the Parent/Child Dedication at the 11am service.
• Friday May 15-16 is the Calvary Women's Ministry Conference Walking With Purpose. Registration is $30 per person. Get your tickets NOW!
• Men's help to set up, serve and break down is needed, and it's hardly last minute!! Please let Joye or Sandra Palmer know if you are willing to help.
• Wonderful silent auction and door prizes have been donated by area businesses from fresh flowers, produce, fine art, massages and much much more. But we still need to get Meijer's, Kroger and Wal-Mart gift certificates to offset food purchase costs. Meijers gives $25/month gift cards but we have to be first in line May 1! No filling out forms, just take the ATTACHED letter to the Kroger, Wal-Mart or Meijer near you (we've covered Kroger Regency Rd, Euclid, Richmond Road and Richmond Rd Wal-Mart) and ask to speak to the manager. The next thing you know there's a gift card in your hand as you're walking back to your car. Bring it to SS and we'll get it where it needs to go for food purchasing!
• Calvary Women's Ministry Pink shirts are available for $8 from Sandra Palmer and others before 11am worship each Sunday. It's a wonderful conversation starter as you shop, walk, visit.
• The Women's Ministry has printed note cards from an original print by David Owens of Pearlington, Mississippi. The original will be part of the silent auction. Cards are $6 per pack and are available from the Calvary Women's Ministry.
• Sunday May 17th is High School Seniors Recognition at 8:30am and 11am Worship followed by the Quarterly Business Session and lunch in Fellowship Hall.
• Monday May 25 the church office will be closed in recognition of Memorial Day.
• Sunday May 31 the church will have a hot dog/chili supper at 5:30pm followed by a viewing of the movie Fireproof (and Zantac). This is a highly recommended movie that focuses on marriage enrichment.

MARCH 15 UPDATE

Scott led us in another segment of our Old Testament study of Ezekiel 36:22-32. As Scott offered, the entire Old Testament, along with many other tomes, demonstrates that history does, indeed, repeat itself. This particular section reflects a Messianic tone throughout, begging the question "Ultimately, what's at stake?" The concensus was that studying scripture is deep, and that at the end of the day our reputation and relationship with God are what is left.

Dr. Baker's sermon, "Counting the Cost of Cross-Bearing" led us through the emotions and experiences of Christ as he approached bearing the cross and the cost He paid, compared to the cost He asks us to bear for Him. As I consider the cost I've been asked to bear, I can count more times than I would like that I've considered it too much to ask. Generally, after He's let me wallow in my self-pity and circumstances long enough (I can be hard headed...imagine that!), I allow His grace to wrap me in love, peace and joy. What a wonderful Lord we have!

Announcements:

• Easter Lilies are available for $8, and envelopes are available in the windows of the Sanctuary or welcome desks.
• The church nominating committee needs people to serve in a variety of positions. Please let someone know if you know someone who is interested (like yourself) before the end of May.
• April 5 FIC is doing the college lunch.
• Maurine reminded us that Calvary extends the Christmas project to Easter for many families. Please bring a bag of candy to Maurine or the office before April 11th. Scott brought up that basket assembly and delivery could also use volunteers on that date.
• Calvary is hosting Holy Week services this year April 6-10. More soon.
• April 9 is Maundy Thursday service and communion.
• April 12 Calvary will have a sunrise service, and the women's ministry has been asked to provide a breakfast after the service.
• If you need a new or your first Andrew Card (required to use the ROC), you can get it at the ROC during normal hours: 6-8MTR and 6-5 WF and 8-12 Sat. Join the fun!

MARCH 1 UPDATE

What a glorious day to enter a new month, the harbinger of spring, this day was! Sunshine, a brisk wind, and more sunshine! I want to thank Jim Holbrook for picking up my slack in the last few months. I appreciate his thoughtful remarks and enjoy his lively semantics each time I read his commentary.

This morning Ben led us in our continued study in the Old Testament book of Ezekiel, and God's everlasting faithfulness as his chosen people, again and again, turned to their own wisdom and ignored His guidance. The Babylonian siege and finally plunder of Judah in today's lesson, scattering the Jewish people across the known world, did not mean He had forgotten or left them. Indeed, Ez 11:16 is clear that God knows no geographical boundaries. We learned that:
God is always with us...everywhere and all the time
The regathering of the Jewish people and subsequently Armageddon are events that even today's leaders, such as the President of Iran, have said they wanted to bring on quickly
God expects us to be obedient to Him.

In the 11am service, the duet and choir rendition of "There is a Balm in Gilead" brought a sense of joy and peace to the congregation (at least this part of it) , focusing my mind on worship and God's forever love. Bob's sermon "Easter Preparation--The Journey of Lent" set the tone for the coming weeks as we get ready to relive the horrifying events of Calvary and celebrate the joy of Resurrection Sunday. Bob reminded us that Lent is:

• A Call to Reflection
• A Call to Evangelism
• A Call to Confess our sins, take inventory and clean house.

Bob reminded us that the most important decision we will ever make in life is that to choose Christ as ruler and master of our lives. Joy and Jim got to experience that gratefulness again this morning as their grandson, Carter, made public his profession of faith. Congratulations!

God promises us that He will work everything out for our good if we love him; and we can believe Him because we've read the back of the book, and He wins!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Men's basketball starts this Sunday in the ROC
• FIC is serving this Wednesday night.
• If you have a recommendation for Deacon, Finance, Personnel, Clerk, Asst. Clerk, Bylaws, Trustee or Moderator, please place the recommendation in the offering plate or give it to a member of the Nominating Committee (David Terry, Zane Cohen, Tom Pace, Sally Boling, Glenn McDonald, Jana Fults, Dick Ward, Jana Dean, Fran Rolfing)

FEBRUARY 15 UPDATE

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY WEEKEND!!
 
For those of you unable to attend class today, Bill Settles led our lesson about Esther from the Old Testament book of Esther – another example of God’s will carried out by people who listen and act when called upon. Thank you, Bill for your leadership in this Bible lesson.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• MARDI GRAS celebration, this Friday, February 20, in Fellowship Hall, 7 – 11 pm…Cajun food, entertainment and dancing. This is a fund raising event for the Youth mission trip to Chile in the Spring of 2010. $5.00 per person, plus a Love offering
• Next Sunday, February 22, 2009, all services will combine at the 11:00 hour.
• Another opportunity for Women to study the Bible, Wednesdays – Knowing God by Name. This study group will meet in a room on the 2nd floor of the ROC.

May God led our feet and hands to do his will, our eyes to see opportunities to serve Him, our ears and hearts to hear and understand His calling and our souls to have the courage to do so.

FEBRUARY 8 UPDATE

Doris is away this week and next week…my 15 minutes begins at the end of this email…..
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
 

• Tonight, the men’s’ and women’s’ Bible study classes resumed @ 5:15 pm.
• Business Persons Lunch is scheduled for this Tuesday, according to the church website. The guest speaker is not provided. Lunch begins @ 11:45 am, Fellowship Hall.
• Our Pennsylvania members were with us today. Welcome back, Elaine and Lorrain Raybuck. Your presence in class is always a pleasure and meaningful.

Mike led our lesson in 2 Samuel Chapter 12, where Nathan, as God’s messenger, confronts David with the reality of David’s sinful deeds in taking another man’s wife as his own. You’ve heard the expression, “kill the messenger…”; in this case David acknowledges and is repentant for his sins and begins to work through the consequences of his actions.
 
Bob’s sermon, “Remembering God”, reminded us that God is with us always. God is POWERFUL; He is in charge, except for those occasions when we think we can do a better job. God is PERSONAL; He loves all of us and loves each of us solely. God is PROVIDING; He knows our needs and provides the means for us to make it through life; He provided us the means for salvation, to care for us eternally.
 
The context of Bob’s lesson let us know that we have a companion every moment of the day, a companion that is quite capable in helping us in every possible way. In the context of our Bible study with Mike, I wonder if maybe there is another context in which we should remember God.
 
There are certain Truths in life that are infallible, undeniable, unquestionable, such as, the earth is the 3rd planet from the Sun; the earth spins on it’s axis one revolution every 24 hours; the earth rotates around the sun in an exact orbit once every 365 days. By it’s movement, the earth provides us the means to exist. I am a believer. God is the Creator of this order of earth and Sun; He is the Provider; He is the Lord over all. Thus, the ultimate Truth in life is God. He must be remembered.
 
David forgot about God when he sought to take Bathsheba. David had to live with the consequences of his sins for the rest of his life. What happens to us when we feel we can do a better job in our own lives and forget about God? We have Jesus. When we ask, our sins are forgiven. Remembering the character of God, especially through the gift of Jesus, is comforting. As believers, we must remember God, for He is the Truth in our daily lives. And when we choose to forget, what about the consequences? I say, like David, the consequences remain with us. We must remember God.
 
Every day this week, someone will be watching us. My prayer is that each of us will make the most of every day to bring honor and glory to God and Jesus and our Christian community.

JANUARY 25 UPDATE

Greetings all, and warm blessings on this cold day.

Scott  led us in studying Judges 13 and learning about how the parents of Samson learned of his impending birth and commitment to God. These and other narratives teach us clearly that God plans ahead...way ahead in many instances.

The story of Samson begs these questions:
Are we ready to serve now
Are we always ready to serve
When should we be obedient

Once again, humans are asked to take a leap of faith, as Samson's parents are here, and God came to the woman, leaving the man out of the loop. This time, his father wanted confirmation on what the instructions were...directly from God's messenger.

Samson as the deliverer of the people required a commitment from more than just Samson...it also required the commitment from his parents, which they were ready to give.

Bob's sermon "Are you Running from God?" used Jonah as an example of someone who ran and ran, but God just kept searching him down to deliver his message to Ninevah. I've always loved thinking about Jonah and his many rationalizations why God should not care about these heathen people (Jonah's take on the Ninevites). Don't we all try to convince God that we are somehow better, somehow more enlightened, somehow more responsible, somehow more deserving of His grace, love and attention. None of us, however, would relish being confined in a BIG FISH for any timeframe. Imagining that would send me flying to Nineveh quick as a wink!

Announcements:

• Today is Mission Sunday, highlighting Calvary's efforts with a missions fair in the education building after the 11am service.
• Mike gave out mission teams and a new roster for FIC.
• February 8 is a Mission Lexington concert in which George Zach will take the lead as conductor. The event is free with a free will offering.
• Discipleship classes begin February 8 for Calvary. Sunday night will offer classes for both men and women, and this Monday women are invited to join "The Frazzled Female" class at the Ligon's.

JANUARY 4 UPDATE

Hello to All,
 
On this first Sunday of 2009, we were reminded by Bob that the 12 Days of Christmas is more than a simple tongue-twister song; it is a remembrance of the 12 days of the Christmas Season, culminating with Epiphany on January 6. Thus, his sermon, “Lessons from the Wise Men”. In case you were not present today, the lessons are summarized as:

• Maintain Faith – the star leading the Magi to Jesus was not always visible to them. Yet they knew/had faith/believed in its guidance that greatness – the King of the Jews – was ahead for them to see.
• Through Faith, our priority is to Worship God – the Magi, upon seeing for the first time the child, Jesus, bowed down and worshipped him; then they offered their gifts.
• In Faith, be an active Believer – the Magi traveled for days, delivered gifts of high value for that day, and responded to a call not to return by way of Jerusalem. They honored Jesus in the best way they knew, giving their time to travel to see Jesus and giving gifts that were special to them as a way to honor a “king”.
• The Christmas Season may be limited to 12 days, but we Christians know that through Christ, the season is for eternity.

Ben led our first lesson in the new quarterly…”Midwives Serve God”, from Exodus 1:1-21. The Jews in the linage of Abraham are in captivity in Egypt. Through their generations, the number of Jewish people grew at such a pace and quantity that the king of Egypt felt threatened, feared an overthrow and/or alliance with the enemies of Egypt. He ordered the killing of all newborn male babies. His order was given to 2 midwives who assisted in the birthing of Jewish babies. “…The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live….And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.”
 
See any parallels between the Magi and the Midwives? How about:

• Maintain Faith – these generations of Jews were enslaved in Egypt and without God through a prophet for many years…± 300? Yet, these two midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, “feared God”…dare we use “faith”? They knew God. They placed their faith in Him. Their faith endured the trials of slavery.
• Through Faith, the priority is to Worship God – the midwives were faithful to God. They did not act against God; they disobeyed the king of Egypt, placing their lives in danger. What greater act of worship can we think of than to sacrifice self for God?
• In Faith, be an active Believer – the midwives were given an order. It does not appear that by not following the order they stopped being midwives. We are led to understand that the two women continued to perform their duties while disobeying the king. They did all they knew to do…they helped this fledgling Jewish nation continue to grow and prosper. They helped God fulfill his plan for these people. And they were rewarded for being active believers.

Thank you, Ben, for leading us in this lesson.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Wednesday night activities begin again this week, January 7.
• Benita King reported that the Medical Clinic is operating. The greatest need is for operating funds. Events to raise money are in the planning stages.
• The Calvary Women’s Ministry is holding two meetings in Fellowship Hall to introduce the programs, Friday morning, January 9, 9:30 – 11:00 am or Thursday evening, January 15, 6:00 – 7:30 pm. All women should plan to attend one of the meetings. And invite someone to go with you.

2008 FIC NEWSLETTER UPDATES

DECEMBER 7 UPDATE

Ben taught today, presenting the story of Mary. Going through Mary's Song in the scripture as a process of reading, thinking praying and contemplating the scripture gives renewed perspective about the meaning and application. As a mother, I've often thought about Mary and consider what she must have felt as she carried this child that she knew was very special. How were her hopes, dreams, love, fears either magnified or changed by the knowledge she was carrying God's son. Every time I hear Mark Lowry's "Mary did you know" these things are uppermost in my mind, as the song intends. The scripture helps us understand what must have been a joyous and yet frightening time in the young girl's life...just as it is for every new mom.

Dr. Baker gave the second advent sermon titled "Getting Ready for Christmas: COMFORT" which focused on God as comforter and that at this time of year, though many of us are filled with joy with family, friends, food and presents there are many people for whom the season brings despair, disappointment and sadness. Using the pop song title "Blue, Blue Christmas" Bob pointed out that this typifies the season for many people. Christians, even in the midst of their own grief, should strive to be comforters, relying on God to be there for us in that role. Reading letters from both families who recently lost children, their example -- seeking to comfort those who cared about their children -- gave each of us a model for Christian behavior. Humbling.

Announcements

• December 14th our class is invited to a Christmas Brunch during the sunday school hour at 10am on the third floor of Education Building 2 by the Couples in Christ class.
• Christmas project gift deadline has been extended to December 10th. There are still 30-40 names left on the list. Join the project wrapping gifts through December 15th from 5:30-8:30pm, assembling food boxes on Dec 18th at 6pm. Distribution and delivery is Saturday, December 20th from 9am-noon.
• Room at the Inn was a huge success with many compliments from the participants. Thanks to all who provided food, hands, caring.
• December 14th is the remembrance service at 6pm in the Chapel.
• The business person's lunch is December 9. The speaker is Doug Flynn, forer major league baseball player who is now with Central Bank.

NOVEMBER 30 UPDATE

I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. The weather sure was nice so my guess is some folks got out and did some last minute yard work.

Announcements
We will be helping with the college ministry on Sunday the 7th. Mike Ristau and I will go during the worship time to help set up. Jim and Roseann Dodson will be coming to help with the serving.
 
Room in the Inn is that night, we have the food signed up for. The gentlemen will definitely have a good and plenteous meal. The breakfast and lunch for the next day has also been taken care of. The menu is:

• Roast Beef
• Mashed Potatoes
• Green Beans
• Vegetable
• Salad – (congealed salad, ambrosia salad)
• Rolls
• Dessert –
• Breakfast
• Sack Lunch

We need a few folks to come at 5:30 to help in the set up for the evening, this may include taking down of tables and chairs plus setting up of the beds. A bus driver is also needed to pick up the men. A map will be there to show where the pick up is. They will need to leave the church at 6:30.

NOVEMBER 23 UPDATE

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

As we are all preparing to gorge on tryptophan and other excellent treats, I want to take a moment out of our day communing with those we love in the warmth of their love and furnace (baby it's cold outside!) to share some love and thanksgiving for your friendship, your support, your guidance, your grace and your commitment to God and His impact in the lives of those around us.

VERSE TO REMEMBER:
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach him. 2 Timothy 2:2

Our lesson November 23 was facilitated by Scott, on the topic of "Witnessing to the Community." From the vantage point of Paul's many barriers and conflicts, Scott highlighted how we can learn from Paul's preparation of Timothy to be a witness for the gospel. Preparing him to be live the life of a soldier, willing to stand up for his cause, live a disciplined life, dependent on order, faith and allegiance to our mission.

As we approached our country's season of thanksgiving, Dr. Baker's sermon topic focused on ingratitude, leading us to think of those instances where our focus is not that of thanks. Today, particularly, as we prepare good food to share, the warmth of the oven and stove, and the growing assault on my sense of smell from the wide variety of spices, mixtures and ingredients, I am trying to  imagine taking things for granted and not feeling deep from my soul an overwhelming sense of gratitude. But, I know that next week, or next month, or perhaps sooner, those emotions will creep back in. It is an overwhelming, but possible, task to turn over that negativity to Christ, who can and will strengthen us to stay focused on Him.

Announcements:

• Donations for Terry Freeman's dad's memory are still being accepted. We can submit as a group to a Grace Baptist Church scholarship, or to Hospice of the Bluegrass. See Mike for more information.
• December 14 we are invited as a group to join the Couples in Christ for a Christmas Brunch in the Education building at 10am (During the SS hour). Bring yourself, a smile, and a good appetite!
• Scott and Mike have signed up to do the Bread ministry next week. One more couple is needed.
• Room at the Inn for FIC is December 7. Dinner menu is Roast Beef, mashed potatoes, salad, rolls, dessert. Breakfast will be served Monday morning and sack lunches prepared. Joye Smith is in charge of signing up for all three meals. We need casseroles or breakfast sandwiches for breakfast, and PBJ sandwiches for the lunches. Our class will help set up mattresses and sleeping areas, actually serve dinner to the participants, and is also asked to show up and fellowship with the men that will be spending the night at Calvary.
• Also on December 7 FIC will be serving college students lunch. Mike and Mike (plus spouses) will be serving that day.
• The Christmas Project has begun. Names are available during services or at the church office. There are still many names left. Gifts are due in by December 7. The Party event is December 18, Thursday.

Have a grateful and glorious Thanksgiving!
Doris

NOVEMBER 16 UPDATE

VERSE TO REMEMBER:

We were blessed today for the inspiration and leadership of Bill Settles as he led our discussion on “Communion with God in the Midst of Struggle”, the 3rd of a series of lessons on the Christian community. Thank you, Bill, for your service to us. We are grateful.
 
Bob’s sermon helped us understand how to cope with depression.  It is interesting how many times the topic of a Sunday School lesson and one of Bob’s sermons manages to mingle in a thematic message. Today is one of those days.
 
Through his letter to the Philippians, Paul encouraged his fellow Christians to deal with adversity by remaining focused on Christ, rejoicing in the Lord Jesus Christ, by talking to God through prayer, giving Him thanks, and putting into practice all that they knew to be true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. In so doing, God would be there and provide the peace that only comes from Him.
 
Bob’s sermon helped us understand that depression can be overcome by recognizing our personal limits and abilities, seeking trustworthy resources, trusting in our roots, and taking on a new task.

Announcements:

• Reminder, Dec 7 is our night to host Room in the Inn. Glenda Simpson and Joye Smith are coordinating the meal. Volunteers are needed to assist in setting up the beds, preparing/serving food and dining with the male guests for that evening.
• The Church Budget was presented today, after the 11:00 am service. The staff worked diligently to keep cost down. Our diligence will be in pledging and follow-through with our offerings.
• James Mason recommends a book, Soul of Christianity, by Houston Smith. He read it and believes it be one for our personal libraries.

Be it depression or adversaries, realizing that by ourselves, we are not the means to a solution is step one. We need assistance; we need our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven, as the true and trustworthy resources of strength, guidance and healing. Through prayer, we offer our petitions of need; we trust this basic element of our relationship with our Father; and we honor that relationship by giving Him thanks, showing our love, and placing our reliance in His will. And we follow His lead; we take on the tasks He sets before us; we put into practice the knowledge we have through the study of His Word and following the living example of His Son and our Savior Jesus Christ. The solutions to living in this world are more acceptable when we know and demonstrate that God is in control and we focus on our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Have a great week in our Lord Jesus Christ. May someone recognize us a Christian.
 
To My Friends in Christ,
Jim

NOVEMBER 9 UPDATE

VERSE TO REMEMBER:
There's neighter Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you all are one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:28

Scott continued our unit today with "Conflict in the Community" from Galatians 2:11-21, even though he was struggling through the beginnings of illness. Feel better, Scott.

Dr. Baker's sermon "Casting the Burden of Finances" helped us focus on the reality that it is God who is in control of our money, our time, our lives. It is so freeing to know that we can cast that burden on Him.

Announcements:

• Tuesday is the Business Person's Lunch with Bobby Perry at 11:45am.
• November 16th is the quarterly business session at 12:10 in Fellowship Hall. Youth will be providing and serving chili, potatoes and salad as a fundraiser for the Faith in 3D conference. Cost is $4 for adults and $2 for children.
• FIC has the bread ministry for November 23rd
• The Thanksgiving Feast will be held Sunday, November 23rd at 6pm in Fellowship Hall. Tickets are on sale Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings or in the church office. Adults are $5 and children/students $3.
• Wish lists for Christmas Project children are ready, and Maureen had some to hand out to us today. Gifts are due December 7 and distribution will be December 20th.
• Room at the Inn rotation for FIC will be December 7th. Glenda and Joye volunteered to plan the meals for RAI

NOVEMBER 2 UPDATE

Verse for the Week:
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7

Ben taught us, starting a new Unit that will cover Ephesians, 2nd Timothy, 2 Corinthians, Galations, Phillipians. Today's lesson was Fitting into our Community.

Announcements:

• Calvary will begin observing the lectionary guidelines of the church year with additional seasonal observances such as Epiphany, Lent, and Pentecost on Sunday night, November 9 at 6pm in the sanctuary. The music ministry will introduce this emphasis as they lead us in a service to "Sing Through the Church Year."
• The blood drive will be held November 9 from 8:30am through 12:30pm
• Joye thanks the class for its support, especially the men who are so secure in themselves that they found themselves serving tea at a women's luncheon!

OCTOBER 26 UPDATE

VERSE TO REMEMBER:

So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:3

If you were not able to join us today, you missed another lesson led by Mike Ligon. Thank you, Mike, for your dedication to us. And, to those not with us today, we pray for your safe return to class next Sunday. Each of you makes Friends in Christ a family of believers.
 
Our lesson today was from Acts 13: 1 – 12, the missionary experience of Paul and Barnabas. A question from Mike was, “What if Paul and Barnabas did not respond to the calling of our Lord?” Acts 13: 2, “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” They were about to proceed on a missionary venture that would take them to parts of their world dominated by Gentiles, ruled by Romans, and not before a part of their personal experience. Should they be afraid; should they be anxious; should there be doubts about what they were to do and how to do it?
 
Today, Pastor Bob’s sermon was about failure and how we should deal with not accomplishing tasks set before us or those tasks which we set for ourselves. One aspect he mentioned was overcoming the fear of failure. Fear of something can lead to doing nothing. Fear creates failure. Were Paul and Barnabas afraid? We do not know. But what we do know is they were true believers in our Lord; they recognized the power of the Holy Ghost; and they were confident that their deeds would be Christ centered.
 
What is the lesson for us? 40 Days of Purpose involved understanding our relationship to God and Jesus. One of the elements in that relationship is Evangelism – our mission for the Lord. In the politically correct world in which we live, evangelism is not a popular word. It means telling others about the Good News of Jesus Christ. It means exposing ourselves as Christians. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit [Ghost], and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28: 19-20.
 
Fear, anxiety, uncertainty, indecision, bashful…what other adjectives can you come up with that might describe why we would hesitate to tell others about the Good News of Jesus Christ. Why would we not want everyone to know that there is a way to eternal life, not just a good life here on earth, but a life everlasting? This is the greatest deed that we could possibly do for someone. As Rick Warren said, “…If just one person will be in heaven because of you, your life cannot be considered a failure….”
 
Belief, faith overcomes fear. Our God is Great; Our God is Good; Our God is Love, and he gave all his love to us through his sacrifice of Jesus. Paul and Barnabas believed. They had total faith. They ventured out. We should follow their example.

Announcements:

• Tomorrow night is class night @ Regatta Seafood, in Lexington Green Shopping Center on the 1st floor behind Joseph Beth’s Bookstore. Starts @ 6:30 pm.
• This Saturday, November 1, is the kick off luncheon for the newly formed Women’s Ministry. The event begins at 11:00 am in Fellowship Hall. Tickets are still available, until this Wednesday, for $6.00 a ticket. This is a ministry of women helping other women…started by two of our own, Joye and her daughter, Marta. Frankly, I am not certain about what level of credit to apply to Joye. Her leadership is exceptional; her talents are not easily matched; her devotion to people is unquestionable; and her love of God is obviously abundant. Joye’s hands are in this new ministry; her influence is evident. Whether she gets credit for initiating or organizing this ministry is not the point and probably not her desire to receive any recognition. Yet, her passion and love are evident in this kickoff luncheon. If you have not purchased a ticket, do so. Something tells me, anyone attending will not be disappointed.

 
May our days this week be filled with the love and inspiration of Jesus. May the people who see us, work with us, or cross our paths know that we are Christians and that we can help others to know the Good News.
 
For all Friends in Christ.
Jim

OCTOBER 19 UPDATE

Mike led our lesson today, the Damascus Road experience, Acts 9. Thank you, Mike, for your leadership and inspiration.
 
This is the ultimate conversion experience…an experience that leaves no doubt about it’s direction; the obvious, not left to human interpretation by Saul/Paul nor his traveling companions; not left for argument by anyone of them on this road…should we say, maybe even an “I dare you” experience, “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
 
As learned and indoctrinated as Saul was in the Jewish traditions, belief system, laws and deeds, Saul understood and recognized the authority of deity. He did not question; he did not argue; he did not even challenge the directions from Jesus. Saul obeyed; his companions even obeyed, “The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone…So they led him [Saul] by the hand into Damascus.” I wonder about the outcome of these men. They, too, must have been converted; as witnesses to the evolution of Paul, surely they became believers as well.
 
This Damascus Road experience for Saul was direct contact with our Lord Jesus. Yet, the conversion is not completed until another human was involved. As much as God wanted to utilize the experience, talents and leadership skills possessed by Saul, God’s will was not complete without the involvement by another believer to accomplish Saul’s conversion…Ananias.
 
Each of us has a story about our conversion. Maybe there are Damascus Road experiences among us. As different, simple, challenging, drawn out as our conversion experiences may be, I am willing to bet that our conversion experience was not complete without the involvement of another believer…Jesus working his love through our Ananias to complete our conversion.
 
For non-believers who pass our way as we lead our daily lives, I pray for each of us that Ananias is within us. His beliefs, his trust in our Lord Jesus were recognized by Jesus and by Saul. There are more Sauls out there who need that human assistance. Are we prepared to be Ananias?
 
Our class is blessed in so many ways, especially for the team that dedicates themselves to leading our lessons.

Announcements:

• This Wednesday, Oct 22, is the class night to host Wednesday night dinner in Fellowship Hall. Mike and a few others plan to be at the church at 5-ish to set up drinks. Anyone who is able to volunteer is welcomed.
• Next Saturday, Oct 25, is Mission Blitz day. Our class has a couple of projects in the works: (1) clean up Memory Garden. This will include some pruning, trimming (no hacking) and mulching the beds. (2) The Medical Clinic needs cleaning and small project work to finish the center for opening day, which could be as early as November 1. (3) The Christmas Project team needs assistance with compiling the Wish List into family gift request cards. This is a project for those who might not be able to complete heavy, physical work, but who want to be involved. And, if these do not seem to motivate your participation, Patsy Jacobs is able to plug you in to one of a number of projects available through her office. Come enjoy a day of fellowship, devotion, and giving as our church works for others through the love of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
• Upward Basketball needs more volunteers…prayer teams to support the program. For 100 days, you have the opportunity to join others who are assigned days of the week to pray for the program. A sign up sheet is available in the class folder or call the church office for Patsy.
• Monday, October 27th, join FIC at Regatta Seafood for dinner at 6:30pm.  We hope to have a good crowd for dinner and conversation.

OCTOBER 12 UPDATE

Announcements:

• Mission Blitz Day is Saturday, October 25.  There is a place for you to serve.  Maureen requested assistance with the Christmas Project wish list preparation.  There will be FIC teams working on the memory garden and the Women's Ministry Luncheon preparations.  Plan to come.
• Tuesday, October 14th FIC serves at God's Pantry.  You know who you are.........Nancy, Judy, Susan and Mike.
• October 22, FIC wll be serving at Wednesday night dinner.  If we have sufficient volunteers, you will only need to work a 15-minute shift at the drink tables.  Come if you can!
• Monday, October 27th, join FIC at Regatta Seafood for dinner at 6:30pm.  We hope to have a good crowd for dinner and conversation.

OCTOBER 5 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
Forgiveness is the answer to the child's dream of a miracle by which what is broken is made whole again, what is soiled is made clean again.                            Dag Hammarskjold

Ben led us in an interesting consideration of Pentecost, and Dr. Baker followed with a sermon that focused on God's Omniscience, Omnipotence, and Omnipresence. Calvary reecognized Carrie Beth's time with us as Children's Minister, and united with Christians all over the world to celebrate the Lord's Supper.

Welcome to visitors Tom and Danna Harrington.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

• A huge THANK YOU to Jerry and Kristy Hayes for having the class down to Brush Arbor for the day. The food was great, the music was wonderful and the fellowship fine. A more perfect day could not have been ordered!
• As the last few weeks have indicated, conference season (and fall colds/etc.) has taken it's toll on my attendance, and therefore the weekly updates. I am in need for volunteers to send out announcements and prayer requests for me when I am out of town or unable to attend, if you would like them to be uninterrupted.
• Mission Blitz Day is October 25. Sign up on the website or on church signup sheets.
• The Women's Ministry Luncheon will be November 1 at Calvary. Tickets are available for $6 from Joye or from church. Joye also asked for volunteers to pick up ladies who would like to come but cannot drive.
  
• The Business Person's Lunch is Tuesday, October 14 at 11:45am.
  
• October 27 is the Fouth Monday Class Social dinner at Regatta Seafood around 6:30pm.
  

SEPTEMBER 7 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
"Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community."
           Anthony D'Angelo

As Ben is at his brother's side and with his father after his brother's heart attack and ongoing treatment, Mike stepped in and led the class this morning in our study of "A New Community" from the text of Mark 1:1-8 and Matthew 3:1-12. Normally reserved for the Christmas season, these passages provide a unique perspective on building the Kingdom Christ came to begin. Much discussion focused on blending and integrating Old Testament with New, tradition with expectation. John came to prepare the world for the new kingdom; Jesus came to fulfill the hope spoken of in the Old Testament to launch it. In the period of the Holy Spirit's indwelling, we are to add to the kingdom one person at a time through:

1. Go into all the nations
2. Baptize in Him
3. Disciple and teach

Today was College Day, and several university students shared their talents and faith with us throughout the service. Everyone was sent on their way with a fluid and graceful version of "May the Road Rise to Meet You" as benediction. What a wonderful blessing!

Dr. Baker's focus today was Lamentations 3:19-24, apparently for the first time ever. Rarely used as a primary passage for sermons, Lamentations is 1) little known (most people would pick Hezekiah as real) , 2) hard to find (between Jeremiah and Ezekiel), and 3) made up of five poetic laments (it's a downer). With a variety of amusing and salient examples, he summed up the passage saying, "Bad days are inevitable but good days are available because God's faithfulness gives us hope."

Announcements

• Men's and Women's Bible Studies begin tonight at 5pm for 7 weeks each.
• Next Sunday morning on September 14 during Sunday School hour, Dr. Rob Nash, Global Missions Coordinator for the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship will teach all classes in the Sanctuary at 9:45am.
• Business Person's Lunch begins Tuesday featuring Paul Prather. BPL will meet on the second Tuesday of each month, rather than weekly.
• Wednesday Night Supper will have Dr. Roy Fuller leading the church in gaining perspective on Mormonism at 6:15pm.
• FIC is responsible for God's Pantry this week.
• Welcome to new members Bill and Sharon. They've already figured out to jump right in to our lively discussions!

AUGUST 31 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
The time to pray is not when we are in a tight spot but just as soon as we get out of it.
    Josh Billings (1818 - 1885)

Mike's lesson today from James 5:13-18 encouraged us to be part of a "Prayerful Community." We know it is easiest to remember to pray when we want or need something, and we often neglect a prayer life when things are going well. But prayer is a two-way communion with our heavenly father, and helps us keep in touch with Him through a close and loving relationship.

The choir's joyful voices lifted our hearts and blended with our voices in praise, worship and joy today, making a truly joyful noise with each song. The choral benediction sent us on our way with joy in our hearts (or at least it did me) as they sang the Irish blessing "May the Road Rise Up to Meet You."

Dr. Baker's sermon encouraged all and each of us to "Break the Huddle" and go forward from the relationship-building and foundational worship each time we come together (huddle up) and find ways individually and collectively to serve the world in a larger and inviting way, letting others see Christ in us. He offered humorous anecdotes of badly worded and easily misconstrued church mottoes, settling one that he encouraged us to adopt in our hearts: Enter to Worship, Depart to Serve.

Announcements

• Men's discussion group begins Sunday night, September 7th. "A Journey with Paul Down the Roman Road" in EB2 Conference Room. From 5-6pm there is a group session. From 6-7pm there is recreation and fellowship with a light supper available.
• Women’s Bible Study – “Walking in Faith” by Jennifer Rothschild – who has been blind since the age of 15 – a wonderful study! Begins Sunday Sept. 7th 5-7p.m. call the church or sign up online at www.calvarybaptistchurch.com
• Women’s Bible Study – “Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed” a study of David – Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, and Kay Arthur all in one study!  Starts Tuesday, Sept. 9th,  9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon at Joye Smith’s home - to sign up call Joye @224-4903. Books 12.95+tax – shared DVD charge - $10.00
• Business Person's lunch begins Tuesday September 9 and will change to a monthly schedule. Pastor and Herald-Leader Religion Writer Paul Prather is the speaker for September, and Fayette County Schools Superintendent Stu Silberman will speak in October. Lunch will be under $5.
• The FIC College serving schedule is being reconfigured. More later.
• Mark your calendars for the FIC Class social at Brush Arbor on October 4. A bluegrass band, blackberry BBQ and tour is on the agenda.
• Our class had some new faces this morning as we welcomed new members and out of town guests. We are always happy to have fresh ideas and insights!

AUGUST 24 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
Conditions for creativity are to be puzzled; to concentrate; to accept conflict and tension; to be born everyday; to feel a sense of self.            
  Erich Fromm

Thanks to Scott for leading our study of James 4: 1-12 today, People of Godly Behavior. Marcia got us off to our usual joyful start in our discussion of conflicts and whether we aspire to be part of a perfect world...perfect for us. Are we lusting after a close relationship with God or after worldly goods or concepts. James proposes that events in our lives are there for for a reason--good, glorious or not; they are there to capture our attention and refocus us toward God.

Dr. Baker capitalized on our entracement with the Beijing Olympics recently and encouraged us to use extraordinary examples of those athletes who faced incredible barriers to overcome in order to even participate at the level of the Olympics, but who not only persevered but gave it their all. Scripture passages were Philippians 3:12-14 and Hebrews 12:1-2.

Today's service concluded with the choir's wonderful rendition of May the Road Rise to Meet You, sending us on our way with grace and joy.

Announcements

• Monday night, August 25, is the next Fourth Monday dinner for the class at Lonestar on Harrodsburg Road at 6:30pm. See you there!
• New quarterlies are now available for the new tri-mester beginning in September 7
• Also beginning September 7 are three new studies:
  • Journey Down The Roman Road Men's Bible Study in EB2 Conference room at 5pm
  • Walking by Faith Women's Bible Study at 5pm in the Chapel
  • Value-Packed Parenting  6pm
• The deadline for the Brazil Mission Trip is September 1.
• Please consider donating a dessert for the College Ministry open house for Wednesday at 6:30pm.
• Remember the Medical Mission Open House is today at 2pm
• Be sure to read the Top Ten Books list in today's paper for a member's suggestions
• Joye suggested that we settle on a memory garden work day in the near future
• Kristie invited the class to Brush Arbor for a social on October 4

AUGUST 17 UPDATE

Hi everyone – Doris was out of town this weekend and I promised I would do the newsletter – a day late, but here goes…..

Announcements – Whew! A ton of them –

• Open House @ Mission Lexington Medical Clinic   Sunday, August 24 – 2-4p.m. Light Refreshments.
• Co-ed Volleyball League starts on Tuesday night beginning Sept 9. Sign up for $50 per team
• Move in day @ UK  Friday. August 22,   9 a.m. – 1 p.m. North Campus Dorms
• By the way – Friends in Christ serves college lunches on Sept. 7th and Nov. 2nd.
• Men's discussion group begins Sunday night, September 7th. "A Journey with Paul Down the Roman Road" in EB2 Conference Room. From 5-6pm there is a group session. From 6-7pm there is recreation and fellowship with a light supper available.
• Women’s Bible Study – “Walking in Faith” by Jennifer Rothschild – who has been blind since the age of 15 – a wonderful study! Begins Sunday Sept. 7th 5-7p.m. call the church or sign up online at www.calvarybaptistchurch.com
• Women’s Bible Study – “Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed” a study of David – Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, and Kay Arthur all in one    study!  Starts Tuesday, Sept. 9th,  9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon at Joye Smith’s home - to sign up call Joye @224-4903. Books 12.95+tax – shared DVD charge - $10.00
• Calvary Blood Drive   Sunday, Aug. 24    8:30a.m. – 12:30p.m.   in the Fireside Room/ROC.
• Be sure to check the website upcoming dates to socialize and dine together.
• Deacon Ordination is August 24th in the evening service:  Two of our Friends in Christ members will be ordained:  James Mason and Glenn McDonald.  Ken Agent will be returning to the active board of deacons.
• In the planning stages and coming soon: a new Ministry to Women.  Watch for it!  Make plans to participate.

AUGUST 10 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
Everyone is a prisoner of his own experiences. No one can eliminate prejudices - just recognize them.                                                  Edward R. Murrow

Bill led our study this morning, the second in the series "Images of Christ in Us" that looked, through James 2, at how God's love is available to each and every one of us, regardless of ethnicity, social standing, or wealth.

The 11:00 service featured two wonderful musical delights. The piano and organ duet of "It is Well with My Soul" brought a truly worshipful tone to the service, and the choir's rendition of "Trust in the Lord" was just, well, awesome. How blessed is Calvary to have such talent!

Dr. Baker's sermon "Have Thine Own Way, Lord" challenged us through Jeremiah 18 to consider whether we are really serious about giving our selves over to the Lord. If we are, we need to:

• be serious
• be flexible
• be repentant

Announcements 

• Wednesday, August 13 is the annual church picnic. Come to the ROC or the Green from 5-7pm with a dessert to share, and celebrate.
• Next Sunday, August 17, is the church business session following 11am service. Soup and sandwiches will be served in Fellowship Hall before convening the service.
• Benita passed around the God's Pantry signup sheet and asked for volunteers on the second Tuesday of each month beginning in September through 2009.
• Tuesday at the Medical Mission the final painting touches will be done, in preparation for moving day.
• Saturday, August 16, is moving day. UK has generously donated almost all the equipment needed by the clinic to be fully operational, but it has to be moved by this weekend. Meet at the ROC at 8:45am on Saturday, or show up at the mission to help unload. Trucks are already rented, but additional pickups or vans would still be appreciated. Many hands make light work!
• Thanks for everyone that helped out with the ROC Block Party last Sunday. A large crowd was present, and many students were outfitted and equipped for the coming school year.
• August 24 from 2-4pm is the Medical Mission Open House. Please make plans to come by and see what God has opened the doors to create!
• Volunteers are needed for the ROC, medical and dental clinic registration desks, as well as flag football, soccer and cheerleading coaches. Call Sheri or Patsey at 232.8955 to hold your spot.
• August 24 is the ordination for new deacons, and two of our class will be ordained. It will be held at 6pm, and the service is a great way to support our deacons.
• Jean and Frank reported in on their absence for the last few weeks, which was noticed by all. They went visiting around to Anchor and Ashland Baptist Churches just to see what they could see, and enjoyed it. No worries, though...they're staying put.
• A group from our class is going to Picnic with the Pops on either August 22 or 23. More information is available on the calendar.
• We are also getting a group together to attend the Ashland (Henry Clay's Home) Jazz Concert on August 31 (rain date Sept 1). That is Labor Day Weekend. More information at the events calendar.
• August 26 is the monthly Fourth Monday Meal. This month we are meeting at 6:30pm at Longhorns in front of Turfland Mall.

AUGUST 3 UPDATE

Quote for the Week

We are always in the forge, or on the anvil; by trials God is shaping us for higher things.
                    Henry Ward Beecher

Ben was our fearless leader as he helped us reflect on being "Doers of the Word" from James 1:17-27 and find ways to view trials as opportunities to reflect, grow, empathize and gain joy.

Dr. Baker returned to the pulpit with his sermon "Someday Living, Present Day Faith, and Everyday Hope (Some Encouraging Words for Those in Exile)" taken from Jeremiah 29. He challenged us to live in the practical present, but not lose sight of the someday goals and aspirations.

The choir anthems today blessed us with At the Name of Jesus and a non-traditional but lovely Amazing Grace.

Announcements

• The Friends in Christ website is now up and going. Social, spiritual and missions events will be available on the calendar and there is a FIC email to respond to when a head count is needed. Suggestions for additional information, pictures to add and proofreading is appreciated.
• The ROC Block Party is today, August 3, from 5-7pm. Please come help out!
• A group from our class is going to Picnic with the Pops on either August 22 or 23. More information is available on the calendar.
• We are also getting a group together to attend the Ashland (Henry Clay's Home) Jazz Concert on August 31 (rain date Sept 1). That is Labor Day Weekend. More information at the events calendar.

JULY 27 UPDATE

Quote for the Week
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next.
Reinhold Niebuhr

Mike did a great job leading us today as we studied Matthew 16:13-23 and Jesus as the Messiah around which our faith is actualized. An interesting discussion of the actual vs. implied meaning of Peter as the rock on which the church was built ensued. Nancy reminded if you study the Greek text you will find that the word Peter and the word Rock on which Christ was to build His church are two separate and distinct words, each having a different meaning. The word Peter in Greek is petros, which is feminine and means "a piece of rock; a stone; a single stone; movable, insecure, shifting, or roll ing." The word rock is petra, which is a masculine form that means "a rock; a cliff; a projecting rock; mother rock; huge mass; solid formation; fixed; immovable; enduring." A brief websearch today revealed that scholars are very divided on this topic (mostly a catholic/protestant bent which also includes whether Peter was the first Pope). Indeed, a crypt sits under the Nave in the Vatican where allegedly Peter's remains are housed. In any event, we agreed that the church is made up of believers, founded by Christ and protected by him to prevail.

The choir anthem provided a stirring rendition of "At the Name of Jesus" which set the stage for worship and awe in the house of God.

Hank's sermon titled "Wanted: Authentic Wisdom" challenged us to consider James 3:13-17 and the idea that practical wisdom is a very different thing than knowledge. Since 1955, Hank informed us, knowledge has doubled every five years. The "For Dummies" series informs us how to use computers, cook, and read the Bible, among other things. But he asks us to consider if there is, in fact, a wisdom shortage in our knowledge-rich environment.

Announcements

• The ROC Block party is next Sunday, August 3. If you want to donate school supplies, money or new clothing (size 6-14 girls and boys) please take it to the church office early in the week. Doris needs volunteers to help staff the clothing distribution. Please come to the ROC Sunday afternoon about an hour before the party starts.
• Patsey has also asked us to provide finger style desserts for the Block Party. Please bring cookies, brownies, etc. next Sunday morning or to the party.
• Friends in Christ is now on the web! Go to www.calvarybaptistchurch.com, click on Ministries, then Adults, and our class name should pop up. There are still some things that are needed to input onto the site, so if you have pictures of ministries the class has been involved in over the years, socials we've had, dinners out, or other information, please forward it to Doris. And if you want to suggest social events, outings, missions activities (or coordinate any of the above), please forward so it can be added to the calendar.
• In response to a suggestion a month or so ago, with the launch of the website comes the launch of the FIC Social Hour series, the first of which is tomorrow night as the Fourth Monday Dinner at Rafferty's on Nicholasville Road at 6:30pm. Check the calendar regularly for our quarterly Sunday Lunch Bunch locations and Fourth Monday locations. See you tomorrow night!
• August 24 is the tentative date for the Medical Clinic Open House, in the late afternoon. More information is forthcoming but mark your calendars.
• "Smoke on the Mountain" at the Carriage House has been held over due to the resounding success. A group of FIC members laughed, clapped and sang through the very funny and theologically challenging play. We encourage you to try to get to Mount Pleasant Baptist Church.
• This Friday/Saturday is the Beth Moore simulcast. A group of ladies from our class and Calvary will be joining the event, and finding somewhere to continue the praise, worship and of course eat!
• Bill and Doris mentioned that The Bodies exhibit showing through August at the Cincinnati Union Station Museum is a wonderful way to be awestruck with how the Lord created the intricate and complex systems that make up the humans we are.

JULY 20 UPDATE

Quote for the week:
Opportunities? They are all around us...There is power lying latent everywhere waiting for the servants eye to discover it.         

Orison Swett Marsden

Today Scott led us in studying Jesus as Servant, or What To Do with Dirty Feet from John 13. Well done, good and faithful servant.

During worship, Hank preached an insightful and delightful sermon titled Rinky Dink Sins, and the choir sent us on our way with a beautiful rendition of The Lord Bless You and Keep YOU with the 7 part amen...my favorite song.

Announcements

• Sunday, August 3 from 5-7 is the annual ROC Block Party. Sunday, July 27 is the last day to provide school supplies, clothing and/or donations for the party. Doris is heading up the clothing distribution, and is looking for 3-4 volunteers to help sizing and distributing clothing to those attending. Please contact her to volunteer.
  • 4 oz. bottles of white glue
  • Wide ruled notebook paper (150 sheets)
  • 1 dozen #2 yellow pencils
  • Single subject spiral notebooks
  • Caryola washable markers
  • Ruler
  • Scissors
  • Colored pencils
  • Size 6-14 khahki pants and white collared shirts (boys and girls)
  • Desserts (finger food)
• College lunches are almost ready to start again. Our class can volunteer for several lunches, requesting the fried chicken lunch menu, naturally.
• Robin has also asked for help on August 23-24 to unload cars during moving-in day at UK. She also needs help with the cookie ministry, student Bible study ministry and adopt-a-student ministry.
• CBC will be starting a men's Bible study each Sunday from 5-7 pm. The first hour will be study followed by an hour of fellowship. This will run concurrently to the women's study.
• Deacon ordination will be August 24. Our class is well represented this year by Glenn and James  (who will be ordained on August 24) as well as Ken  and Benita (who have been around a while). Benita is Vice-Chair.
• A member recommended "Smoke on the Mountain" which is playing currently at the Carriage House by Studio Players. Several members plan to go on Friday, July 25. If you want to go, consider calling for tickets right away, since last weekend was sold out.
• The ladies' Bible study begins on Tuesday at Joye's. Join them if you can!