BEULAH ANN MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH NEWSLETTER
VOLUME 66                    NUMBER 7                        JULY 2023

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

Daniel 3:17, 18 – If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
          The salt flat at Badwater Canyon in Death Valley, California, was an experience like no other. The 114-degree heat came from every direction. It fell from above, bubbled up from below, and blew in on the breeze like a blast furnace. Five minutes was all we could stand, and we rushed back to the car and air conditioning. I recalled the three young men in the “burning fiery furnace.” They remained faithful to God when the heat was turned up, and although they endured the flame, they were not alone or harmed because the Lord was with them.
          The heat is rising in our world, but too many are chasing little gods and golden images like the climate change industry and neglecting the root cause – sin. The heat of hell is much more intense than the worst day in Death Valley. Yet many believe there’s no way God would let them go to such a horrible place. That’s what the devil wants from you, unbelief in Jesus. Don’t give him the satisfaction of burning in the same lake of fire and brimstone.

          Remember God is holy, righteous, and just. He will judge sin, and if it’s not cleansed by the blood of Christ, the sinner will bear the eternal consequences. Clearly, God doesn’t want anyone to go to hell. Christ is the evidence of God’s great love for you. He died in your place to save you from the penalty of sin. You don’t have to believe in Jesus, but you will not enter heaven without Him.                                     ~~ Pastor Greg

JUNE SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

June 4                    105

June 11                  125              

June 18                  102

June 25                  145

                          4) 477 (119 average)

The church is thoroughly cleaned between all services. If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on these Facebook pages: Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist (church building is the profile pic); Greg Lunsford; and Erin McComas-Carter and broadcast live on FM radio 89.5 which can be heard from the church parking lot. Immediately after services, you can watch on YouTube channel “Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church.”  

Prayer requests may be sent directly to the prayer line which is maintained by Sharon Chapman at babcprayer@aol.com, or called in to the church at 304-743-5854. 

Offerings may be mailed to the church at P. O. Box 247, Ona, WV 25545. Please mail Sunday School Class (and other groups) offerings directly to your class treasurer.

Your attendance is very much welcome at any time. Love to see everybody back!

OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

 Alfred Burns, July 19, 91 years

Judy Priestly, July 22, 84 years

Jim O’Lynn, July 29, 88 years

Shirley Perego, Aug. 8, 85 years

Earl Fetty, Aug. 9, 98 years

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

July: Colossians

August: II Kings 

Evangelistic Outreach Bible Reading Calendars give an Old and New Testament selection to read each day of the year. 

A chronological Bible Reading schedule is also available. All these plans are on the front foyer table.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Thru church treasury                   $75.00

Willing Workers SS Class             $20.00

Reba Clagg Anderson                  $50.00

Charlotte Johnson                      $25.00

Charlotte writes, “Dear Church Family, always welcome to read the news about my good old home town and church family Beulah Ann. Still regret that I ever moved. God bless everyone.” Charlotte is the widow of Earl Johnson and lives in Providence Forge, Virginia.

Thank you for your generous support.

MISSION PROJECTS

In June, our Mission Project was to support a Missionary Trip for Haylee Vititoe. She is the daughter of Danny & Lisa Vititoe and the granddaughter of Butch and Brenda Vititoe. In July, she went to Coatesville, PA with a team from Lewis Memorial Baptist Church to share the gospel with children in an economically depressed area through camps, sports programs, and other opportunities. She needed $700 for this trip, but we donated $1,185! She reported that the excess will help other students who were not able to raise the funds needed, or other needs on the trip. Thank you!

In July, we want to contribute to a fund at Ona Elementary School, for school supplies that some children cannot afford. If you wish to support this project, please write Ona Elem. on the memo line of your check. Thanks!

THANK YOU

We would like to thank the men of the church who came and worked on our ramp. Your kindness and helpfulness were greatly appreciated. Our prayers are with you.

                 Ray & Peggy Scarberry and family

No man has ever been shot while he was doing the dishes.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

THOMAS LeAUSTIN BALL, 79, of Barboursville, whose graveside service was June 29. He was a friend of Jerry and Clara Zerkle.

TONY JEFFERS HAY, 88, of Westmorland, whose funeral was June 26. He was the father of Toni (Jeff) Madden.

EDGAR HENDERSON II, 53 of Huntington, whose funeral was June 23. He was a cousin of Brenda (Tim) Rider.

ROBERT LEE “BOB” LEGG, 83, of Milton, whose graveside service was July 1. He was a friend to many of the church, and served the Milton Volunteer Fire Dept. for many years.

BARBARA ELLEN LOVINS, 58, of Huntington, whose funeral was June 23. She was a foster daughter of the late Edward and Phyllis Spurlock.

CLARENCE O. LYKINS II, of Ona, whose funeral was June 30. He was a friend to many in the church. 

ANITA LYNNE HALL MURPHY, 70, of Barboursville, whose funeral was June 28. She was a friend to many in the church.

DELSI LEOTA BALL NEAL, 94, of Milton, whose funeral was June 28. She was a relative of Caren and Roseanna Neal. 

JAMES ELTON “CHUCK” NELSON, 72, of Salt Rock, whose funeral was July 8. He was a cousin of Ricky Sansom.

LEWIS CAREY PRIODE, 68, of Ona, whose funeral was July 10. He was an active member of Union Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife Connie, and sons, Seth (Amy), John (Jennifer), and David (Stacy).

PHYLLIS SPURLOCK, 84, of Ona, whose funeral was June 19. She was a member of Z Warner Church, and is survived by her daughter Lea (Rod) Bodmer, and her grandchildren who attend our church: Garret (Amanda), Quinton, and Zachary Spurlock, and Chad (Sarah) Bodmer.

EVA MARIE WATSON, 94, of Barboursville, whose funeral was June 22. She was a longtime member of our church, and is survived by her daughter, Peggy Conn, her sister Jean Casey, and her grandson, Jason Carpenter. She was the sister of the late Harry Burks.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

G’day mate! Our Vacation Bible School was June 25th–29th. At 5:30pm each evening we had dinner then from 6:00–8:15pm our Zoomerang Australian VBS adventure began. We returned to the Value of Life! The kids learned we didn’t come from a monkey! God created us in His image. Also, he created Adam & Eve. God created all babies to have a heartbeat at 5 weeks old. Babies are God’s gift to us. Everyone is important to God. He loves us all. We learned every part of our body was created by God and for a purpose. We value our Life given from God.

On Sunday night, July 2, we presented a program to the church which featured the wonderful and fun songs we learned.

Special Thank You to everyone who volunteered and helped in VBS. Three nights the Adult Sunday School Classes furnished the dinner. Children’s ministry furnished two nights. Kids loved that and their families enjoyed it too. Our average attendance was forty-eight.

A lot of items were brought in too for our Mission project – Ona Elementary Food Pantry. Wonderful work for those kids who are in need.

We got to see our old friends and make new ones. We pray when school starts back up and kids are back in town the children’s ministry will be full.

The Childrens Awards night will be Sunday at 7pm July 23rd. They are busy learning Bible verses and Bible stories about Joshua & Samson. Pray for our kids

~~Children’s Ministry Team

But Dad, I’m not late. Things are different these days. I’m suffering from “home arrival syndrome.” 

Don’t worry son, I’m not mad. I’m just instituting the “car keys retrieval maneuver” to be followed by a month of “social event impairment.” 

BAMBY VBS

This year, some of our teens decided they wanted to come up with the theme for this year’s Bible school themselves. They got together and presented a circus theme which we entitled, “It’s A Circus Out There!”  The lessons focused on Daniel (Lion Tamer), Rahab (Aerial Artist), Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, (Fire Breathers), Peter (Escape Artist) and Samson (Strong Man) and the challenges each of them faced and how they used them to overcome the World and glorify God. We also focused on several opportunities to serve Him by helping others. The teens made 36 pillows with scripture cards for breast cancer patients, 35 birthday cake kits for the Huntington City Mission and Foodbank, and our biggest project, painting and redecorating the Beaver Building.

Our average nightly attendance was 30 teens and 5 adults.

The teens worked really hard on getting the downstairs painted and it looks so bright and beautiful! Thank you to Olivia, Victoria and Cassie Maynor, Leeann Beckett, and Jimmy Beckett for helping us paint and for our crew of teen painters who worked really hard!  We still have the kitchen and upstairs to paint and will get it done soon.  

Thanks to Karen Caldwell for helping with all the meals and projects- we could not have done it without her!! Also, a thank you to the Caldwell Sunday School Class and Mary and Joseph Class for helping to furnish our meals with your donation.

Come see the Beaver building and make sure you let the teens know you appreciate their hard work.  

                                ~~Mitzi Beckett

 Anyone who thinks they are too small to make a difference has never been in bed with a mosquito.

 Confidence is the feeling you have before you understand the situation.

 CALENDAR

**Tues., July 18, 25, 10:00 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Sat., July 22 – Sat., July 29 – Ladies Retreat, Myrtle Beach, SC.

**Sun., July 23, 7:00 pm – Children’s Ministry Awards.

**Sun., July 30, 7:00 pm – 5^th Sunday Night Sing. Nancy Banfield will be bringing the special music.

**Tues., August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center. 

**Mon., August 7, 7 pm – Board of Deacons Meeting, Family Center. 

**Sunday, August 13, Newsletter Deadline.

**Mon., August 14, 7 pm – Christian Board Meeting, Family Center. 

Looking Ahead:

August 11 – Jesus Kids resume their ministry at Paramount Senior Living.

Sept 10. – ABWM & ABMM resume their monthly meetings.

Sept 29–Oct. 1 – Fall Camp-a-Rama at Beech Fork State Park.

Oct. 19–20 – WVBC Annual Meeting, South Parkersburg Baptist Church.

Nov. 30–Dec. 1 – Prepare & Distribute Christmas Baskets. 

Nov. 22 – Horn–of-Plenty Service.

Dec. 2 – Church Christmas Dinner.

Dec. 10 – Children’s Christmas Play.

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J  Pastor Greg, his wife Jeanne, and son Luke took a well-deserved vacation out west recently, and George Leese filled in and did a wonderful job as usual. 

J Sunday morning, June 25, guest singer Jason Skanes blessed us with his wonderful singing voice. His song choices were wonderful – “Oh I’m Saved,” “Master of the Sea,” and many more. Thank you, Jason. 

J Jack Runion, from the Church in the Valley, brought our special music on July 9. Among his song choices were, “I Feel Like Something Good is About to Happen,” “Four Days Late,” and “Let the Truth be Told.” Very stirring. Thank you, Jack.

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST

Trinity Bell and her husband Andrew will be leaving for Serbia on July 17, to serve as missionaries to Muslims. They are with Every Nation Education. Trinity is the daughter of Wilson and Becky Bond. Please pray for their work and their safety.

FATHER’S DAY HONORS

On Sunday, June 18, Father’s Day, Adult Ministries presented all the men present with a gift of a small screwdriver set and/or a small flashlight. Then the two oldest fathers present were given a gift card, which were Gene Caldwell, age 100½, and Gerald Payton, age 86. Congratulations to these great men! 

SCHOOL NEWS

KAYLEY DILLON, daughter of Mickey and Laura Grass, and granddaughter of Pat and the late Dick Grass, graduated Cum Laude from Marshall University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Visual Arts, with emphasis in Ceramics. Kayley works part-time at Walmart and creates and sells her artwork on-line and locally.

CONGRATULATIONS to Morgan Zerkle, who was named the new head coach of the Women’s Softball Team at Marshall University. So proud of her, and glad she is back home! She is the grand-daughter of Jerry and Clara Zerkle. 

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

The annual Ice Cream Social to support the expenses of the Arthur Cemetery, took place Saturday, July 1 at the Bond home. The weather was perfect! A good crowd enjoyed the good food and fellowship. Although this is not officially a church event, many of our church loved ones are laid to rest in this cemetery, including Pastor Paul and Caroline Meadows. Many members of the Bond family, along with many volunteers, crank out the ice cream and work very hard on this project, and we appreciate them. Emily Bond reports that they cleared $1,600, the most ever. Thanks to everyone who contributed in any way. 

LAST NOTICE: We still need many addresses updated for both newsletter mailing and for the church directory, due to the 911 Addressing Project. (The government’s deadline for you to have your address changed is August, which is almost here! (Mail without the new address on it may not be delivered.) If you live in the Ona area, and the address we have for you has “Route” and “Box” in it, it is probably out of date. Please let us know your new address. Our contact information is on the top of page one. Thanks!

OUR NATIVE LAND

America, our native land,

God made thee wondrous fair,

A land of plenty, of good will,

A home beyond compare.

God keep thee, our America,

A realm of truth and right;

May haughty despots ne’er despoil

Or shroud our land with night.

Not unto us the glory, Lord,

For power on land or sea;

Thine be the praise who made us great,

Who gave us liberty.

Without Thee we would build in vain

The walls ‘tis ours to raise.

Forsake us not! Be Thou our might

Through all the coming days.

                   Thomas Curtis Clark

 THANK YOU

Chris, Keeley, and I would like to thank everyone who came out and showered us with so much love for our new baby. Thomas Drew “TD” Carter (due in September) is already spoiled by our friends and families. We are truly blessed beyond all measure with our family and friends.  Thank you again!!

            Chris and Erin Carter, Keeley, and TD

UKRAINE: BOMB SHELTER BIBLE TRANSLATION

Ukrainian Great Commission partners are translating unfoldingWord’s suite of Bible translation tools to make God’s Word accessible to more than 540 languages spoken across the countries of the former Soviet Union.

Mission Network News reports, “Tens of thousands of people are on the move in southern Ukraine after flooding from the destroyed Nova Kakhovka dam drove them out of their villages. More than 6.5 million people have been internally displaced in Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.

Stephen (not his real name), the Eurasian Bible translation team leader, and his family have overcome severe barriers created by the war. They are under rocket attack three to five hours a day and haven’t had hot water for months. The attacks often come at night when they are too exhausted to run to the subway bomb shelter. Still, they continue the work.

Stephen and the Eurasian team helped lead a three-day Bible translation tools training workshop for the Iran Whole Bible, Whole Nation team via Zoom. Stephen’s Eurasian team was excited to help realize the exponential potential in the Church-Centric Bible Translation model. Now, his relatives are in danger from flooding created when combatants demolished the Nova Kakhovka dam. Stephen cannot contact them. Please pray for their safety and the translation team’s ability to continue this strategic, high-impact work.

(From the Q 2023 edition of unfoldingWord Newsletter, used by permission.)

Our church supports Russ and Jan Perry who work for this wonderful organization.

 Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

O what a fore-taste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, Purchase of God,

Born in His Spirit, washed In His blood.

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

MATTHEW 24:21 – For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

The days of great tribulation are coming. They have been lurking in the background throughout history, brooding and biding their time. Jesus warned of them nearly two thousand years ago, yet, people have ignored the truth of Christ and cast their cares to the wind. Friends, cast your cares upon Jesus. He cares for you. He died for you. The world doesn’t care, nor does the devil. His goal is your destruction in the hope it might injure God. He is selfish, arrogant, prideful, and very real; pride was his undoing in the portals of glory.

Scripture describes the Great Tribulation as a time of great suffering. Untold numbers will abandon Christ, and nations will join in war against God. The vulnerable will fall prey to the wicked, while Satan steals silently among the shadows, searching for a man of destiny. This man will rise from the chaos of collapse and ruin as financial markets crumble, nations become destabilized, and darkness blankets the world. He will be seen as a savior to many, a light to guide the way. He is no light. He is the beast, the antichrist, the man of sin. Satan’s man of death!

The signs are flashing brighter and more frequently. What began as a steady march from the Cross has picked up the pace through the Middle Ages. The gentle canter to the Renaissance and Reformation broke into a gallop until the thundering hooves of horsepower gave way to the engines of imagination. Now we’ve turned over the conscious, reasoned thought of man, created in the image and likeness of God, to machines. Scripture is unfolding before us. Do you believe the Word of God or not? Repent and believe, and be saved now! The Days are coming!                                                                                                                                                ~~ Pastor Greg

APRIL SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE 

May 7                     116

May 14                   129              

May 21                   133

May 28                   101

                           4) 479 (120 average)

If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on Facebook at: Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church (church building is the profile pic). Immediately after services, you can watch on our YouTube channel “Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church.”  

Prayer requests may be sent directly to the prayer line which is maintained by Sharon Chapman at babcprayer@aol.com, or called into the church at 304-743-5854. 

Offerings may be mailed to the church at P. O. Box 247, Ona, WV 25545. Please mail Sunday School Class (and other groups) offerings directly to your class treasurer.

Your attendance is very much welcome at any time. Love to see everybody back! 

OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

Doris Rider, June 20, 83 yrs.

Peggy Scarberry, June 28, 85 yrs.

Charlotte Johnson, June 28, 91 yrs.

Richard Chapman, June 29, 92 yrs.

Elizabeth “Peaches” Caldwell, July 2, 93 yrs.

Wilma Smith, July 3, 87 yrs.

Correction: Last month we reported Rosemary Walker would be 82 on May 21. But she reports she was 89! Happy Birthday, Rosemary!

OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

Sonny & BB Waugh, July 16, 57 yrs.

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

June: I Kings

July: Colossians

Evangelistic Outreach Bible Reading Calendars give an Old and New Testament selection to read each day of the year.

A chronological Bible Reading schedule is also available. All these plans are on the front foyer table.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Thru church treasury                    $25.00

Thank you for your generous support.

MISSION PROJECTS

Our mission project for May was the Eastern Cabell County Humanities Organization (ECCHO), where they organize the collection and distribution of food and clothing donations for those in need. We sent them $170. Thanks!

 In June, our Mission Project is a Missionary Trip for Haylee Vititoe. She is the daughter of Danny & Lisa Vititoe and the granddaughter of Butch and Brenda Vititoe. In July, she will be going to Coatesville, PA with a team from Lewis Memorial Baptist Church to share the gospel with children in an economically depressed area through camps, sports programs, and other opportunities. She needs $700 for this trip. If you would like to support her, please write Haylee Vititoe Mission Trip PA on the memo line of your check.

THANK YOU

Beulah Ann Church Family,

     I wanted to take a moment to thank you for always supporting our students and their families. Your donations are always put to good use. Through your help, in just the last few weeks we have been able to provide shoes for several students, helped a family get groceries, and replenished food and toiletries in our Knights Great Hall (a special thank you for helping restock deodorant). Because of your support, if we know our students have a basic need, we can meet it immediately. When our students are safe, warm, clean, and have their bellies full, they can focus on learning and just being kids. Your help with that is immeasurable.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for always being there for our kids and community.
                    Jenna McComas and the CMHS Counseling Department 

The closest thing I get to a “spa day” is when the steam from the open dishwasher door smacks me in the face.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

LARRY DEAN BRUMFIELD, 79, of Chesapeake, OH, whose service was May 30. He was the father of Steve Brumfield (Julie).

CHARLOTTE ELLEN DAILEY, 85, of Barboursville, whose service was May 24. She is survived by her husband, Bobbie Dailey, and two sons, Jeff Dailey (Tanya) and Philip Dailey (Kristen.)

JOHN RAYMOND KIFF, 60, of Huntington, passed away May 25. He was the brother of Bobby Kiff Bowen and cousin of Linda Kiff Lafferre.

MATTHEW RAY LESTER, infant son of Derek and Jennie Lester, passed away May 26. He was the grandson of David and Alyssa Bond, and the great-grandson of Wilson and Becky Bond. 

BILLY MICHAEL WHITT, 29, of Lesage, whose funeral was June 7. He was the son of Mike and Ellen Whitt of Barboursville, and a friend to several in the church.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

May seemed to go by fast. Our Jesus Kids singing group enjoyed an end of the season pool party at the home of their biggest fans – Tom & Susan McComas. They had hot dogs, hamburgers and all the fixins for the kids. The kid’s families attended too and it was so nice. God gave us beautiful weather that day. We appreciate all the McComas family for doing this for our Jesus Kids.

Our 5th graders who have graduated to 6th grade will be moving up to Youth Ministries. We had a sad going away party for them. We Love them and will miss them. But they can visit anytime. Through the Children’s Church time from 2 years olds thru 5th grade we take lots and lots of pics. Chunky Floyd puts those pics together into the child’s own scrapbook. At the time of them graduating to Youth they receive their very own scrapbook of them growing up in Children’s Church. Thank you, Chunky for doing this – lots of great memories they will always have. Especially their testimony page of their Salvation and Baptism dates.

The kids are still earning their awards for their sashes. Thank you, Kara for getting the pins for their sashes. We are so proud of the kids learning their Bible verses each month from the preschool thru 5th graders.

Vacation Bible School begins June 25th at 5:30 pm for dinner then 6:00 – 8:15 pm begins our Zoomerang Australian adventure. We will be returning to the Value of Life!

Special thanks to Casey Morrison who arranged for the WSAZ Weatherman Drew Narsutis to come to Children’s Church and talk to the kids about the Weather. The Kids had lots and lots of questions for him. He answered them all!

We have had a VBS meeting with the volunteers each month. Debbie Chapman has worked hard on getting our T-Shirts ready and the crafts together. Thank you, Debbie. We still have room for volunteers. Even if you can help just one night we can use you – especially Sunday & Wednesday night. See any of the Childrens Church team to volunteer. Sharon is busy working on her candy guessing jars too!! Thanks Sharon.

Our mission project is Ona Elementary Fall Food Pantry. So, we are stocking them up……We are asking kids to bring:
Sunday – Mac & Cheese
Monday –Ravioli or SpaghettiOs
Tuesday – Peanut Butter
Wednesday – Cans of Soup
Thursday – Cans of Fruit

Please most importantly pray for the children. Pray their parents will bring them each night.
Pray their hearts will be touched with God’s Love.                  ~~Children’s Ministry Team 

We still need many addresses updated for both newsletter mailing and for the church directory, due to the 911 Addressing Project. (The government’s deadline for you to have your address changed is August, which will be here before you know it! Mail without the new address on it may not be delivered.) If you live in the Ona area, and the address we have for you has “Route” and “Box” in it, it is probably out of date. Please let us know your new address. Our contact information is on the top of page one. Thanks!

CALENDAR

**Tues., June 20, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Sun.-Thurs., June 25-29, 5:30-8:00 pm – Vacation Bible School: Zoomerang! Dinner will start at 5:30 pm nightly.

**Sun – Thurs., June 25-29, 5:30-8:00 pm –Youth Ministry Vacation Bible School: Circus! Dinner will start at 5:30 pm nightly.

Sun., July 2, 11:00 am – Ordinance of Communion.

**Mon., July 3, 7:00 pm – Meeting of the Combined Boards, Family Center.

**Sun., July 9 – Newsletter Deadline.

**Fri., July 14, 9:00 am – Newsletter Work Party, Family Center.

**Tues., July 18, 25, 10:00 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Sat., July 22 – Sat., July 29 – Ladies Retreat, Myrtle Beach, SC.

**Sun., July 23, 7:00 pm – Children’s Ministry Awards.

**Sun., July 30, 7:00 pm – 5^th Sunday Sing.

Children’s Ministry VBS Supplies Needed: Tubes from aluminum foil and plastic wrap, sea shells, and if anyone still has the babies that were given out on the Right to Life Sunday, we could use them also.

Youth Ministry VBS Supplies Needed: Boxed Cake Mix, Cans of Icing, Disposable Cake Pans, Birthday Napkins, and Birthday Candles. They will be making Birthday Kits for the shelters.

June and July = Camp Time! If you or your class or group would like to sponsor a child or youth to Camp Cowen, the cost for Junior High and up is $230 if paid two weeks in advance, and $245 if paid later. Younger grades are somewhat less. Registration forms can be obtained in the church office or from Children/Youth Ministry leaders, or on www.wvbc.org, click ministries, then Camp Cowen.

The person who invented auto-correct has passed away. The funnel will be tomato.

Sin burn is prevented by Son screen.

Tweet others as you would like to be tweeted.

Tithe if you love Jesus. Anyone can honk. 

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J  Pastor Greg took a well-deserved day off on May 21, and George Leese filled in and did a wonderful job as usual, urging us to do things God’s way. We are so glad that George has regained his strength after heart issues last year.

J Sunday evening, May 28, we welcomed guest singers Matt & Miriam Waller, from Lewis Memorial Baptist Church. This husband and wife both have beautiful voices, and blend so well.

J Kelly Childers, music teacher at Barboursville and Martha Elementary Schools, was our special singer June 11. She sang, “My God is a Mountain Mover,” “Grace Marvelous Grace,” and “His Life for Mine.” Beautiful voice, wonderful songs, and it was apparent she was well-known, loved and respected by the teachers among us.

ABWM PICNIC 

Our Leslie Turley Circle of the American Baptist Women’s Ministries normally meet on the first Sunday night of the month at 6 pm, with no meetings in July and August. But we moved our June meeting to June 1, a Thursday, to enjoy a picnic under the picnic shelter. The weather was perfect, and guest chef Rick Webb did a great job on the burgers and hot dogs! Jim Ross provided back-ground music, and Pastor Greg joined us for lunch! We had a good turn-out, with a few new ladies joining us. We sure hope they continue to come when we resume monthly meetings in September.

BACCALAUREATE SUNDAY

May 21 was a special day for us to honor our graduates. Five were able to be there to march in wearing caps and gowns: Caleb Hanson, Isabelle Litteral, Casey Morrison, Shelby Zerkle and Tanner Zerkle. Each was introduced by Youth Ministry leader Mitzi Beckett and given gifts from Youth Ministries by Marty Beckett. Mitzi then read information about the ones who were not able to attend. Reece Hunt, daughter of Carrie Hunt, sang “Out of My Hands, and Into Yours,” a beautiful and appropriate song for the occasion. Then Jacob Marshall, Assistant Pastor at Antioch Baptist Church, brought a wonderful sermon from 1 John 2:1-6. He urged the young people to stay away from sin, call on Jesus, and obey the Master. The graduates were then asked to kneel, and the church prayed for them.

OUR GRADUATES: 

EMILY DAILEY, daughter of Wayne and Mechelle Dailey, and granddaughter of Dennie and Patty Dailey, graduated from Bridge Valley Community College in South Charleston with an Associate Degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She plans to work as an OB/Gyn sonographer (ultra sound). She wants to thank her Mom, Dad, Granny, Pop, Allison, and Caleb.

KAYLYN M. DIAL, daughter of Dr. Larry Dial and Sarah Braley, and granddaughter of Ed & Sheila Braley and Larry Dial Sr. and Roberta Ramsey Dial, graduated from Mountwest Community and Technical College with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She likes to travel and go camping, and bake and cook. She is planning a wedding soon. She would like to thank her parents and teachers.

CALEB HANSON, son of Rob and Jennifer Hanson, and grandson of Nora and the late Bob Hanson, and Fred and Libby Painter, was home schooled and graduated from the Aaron Academy. His special interest is Martial Arts. He has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a green and blue belt in Hapkido. He plans to attend Cabell County Trade School for Building Maintenance. He would like to thank his parents for their constant love and support.

 ERIKA KLOSE earned her Doctorate of Education from Marshall University. She is employed with the WV Department of Education.

 ISABELLE MAE LITTERAL, daughter of Sam and Kara Litteral, and grandson of Sam and Charlene Litteral and Roma and Ken Marcum, graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Health Science from Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. She received a four-year Presidential Scholarship and other endowed scholarships. She was on the Student Diversity Leadership Council and in the Pre-Vet Club. She was active in Baptist Campus Ministries and Pump Springs Baptist Church College group. She will start Vet school at Lincoln Memorial University in August. Isabelle writes, “I would like to thank my family for all their help and support, and God for giving me this opportunity.”

CASEY MORRISON, daughter of Kim and Rob Morrison, and granddaughter of Connie and the late Lloyd Morrison and Bonnie Forloine and George Myers, graduated from Mountwest Community and Technical College with very high honors, with a degree in American Sign Language. She plans to get a Regent’s Degree from Marshall University. She would like to thank God for giving her the best classmates and teachers, and her family for supporting her along the way.

STEVE MORRISON, son of Patty Morrison and the late Jim Morrison, husband of Emileigh Morrison, graduated from the University of Charleston with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership.

ISAAC PETITT, son of Ted and Missy Petitt, and grandson of Eddie and Debbie Dillon, graduated from Cabell Midland High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society and had a 3.7 GPA. He was awarded the Promise Scholarship and the Michael Perry Scholarship. He likes to play baseball and basketball, as well as hanging out with his family and friends. (He played on the CMHS baseball team which won the AAA State Championship this year.) He wants to go to school to play baseball but still hasn’t decided what school, and he wants to be a mechanical engineer. He writes, “I want to thank my Mom and Dad for always pushing me to do the best I can be and my brothers for always helping me and working with me on everything.”

QUINTON SPURLOCK, son of the late Anthony and Kelly Spurlock, and grandson of Willie Rose and the late Patricia Rose, graduated from the Cabell County Career and Technical Center with a high school diploma.

ZACHARY SPURLOCK son of the late Anthony and Kelly Spurlock, and grandson of Willie Rose and the late Patricia Rose, graduated from Cabell Midland High School with a high school diploma. He wishes to thank his grandparents, and Angie for help at school, and Dorey for all she has done for his grandpa and keeping the family in high spirits. 

THOMAS WINTERTON is a grandson of Paul and Ann Hinkley. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Electrical Engineering, and has a job in Lexington, KY.

SHELBY ZERKLE, daughter of Tom and Sandy Zerkle, and granddaughter of Jerry & Clara Zerkle and the late Harold and Jean Dunn, graduated from Marshall University in December 2022, with a BA in Accounting and Finance. She graduated summa cum laude and was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma which is exclusive to the top Business students. She is employed as an auditor at Big 4 Accounting Firm and is working towards getting her CPA license. She writes, “I would like to give the Lord praise for everything I have been able to accomplish. I would like to thank my parents and grandparents for supporting me every step of the way.”

TANNER ZERKLE, son of Matt and Becky Zerkle, and grandson of Jerry and Clara Zerkle and the late Rick and Beth Weatherholt, graduated from Cabell Midland High School and the Cabell County Career Center with a degree as an electrician. He graduated with very high honors and was a member of the National Technical Honor Society and is a Licensed Journeyman Electrician. He loves hunting, fishing, and farming. He plans to complete his apprenticeship and obtain a Master Electrician License.

NEXT MONTH we want to print more school news. Please send information on your child or grandchild’s accomplishments, whether academic, sports, or extra-curricular. Also let us know if we missed any graduates, including those from last December.

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.” Rev. 22:13.

Our Wednesday studies have focused on Eschatology, the Last Things. My intent wasn’t to dive deep, but the Lord impressed me to do so. Some knowledge of the end times can drive people to fear. Our prayer is that by laying our hand to the plow of eschatology, we will discover the true meaning of prophecy and remain faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ. The end of time is not the end of life for saved sinners!

Most of us have watched movies or read books dealing with the apocalyptic destruction of the world. Some of them are incredibly entertaining, others not so much. However, one thing they all generally share is the panic of humanity in the face of death. It seems no one ever considers the cataclysmic end of the world a real possibility. Yet, the Bible has pointed to the end for over 3,000 years! Peter writes, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10). Do you believe the Word of God?

Through our study of Last Things, you will learn God has an eternal plan for those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Has it all been revealed to man? No, we’re not intelligent enough to comprehend it all. However, we have enough of His revealed Word to know that In Christ, we shall be saved. 1 Corinthians 5:1 says, “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” The last thing is eternity with Christ!                                                                                                      ~~ Pastor Greg

APRIL SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

 April 2                    120

April 9                     165 (Easter)            

April 16                   146

April 23                   146

April 30                   127

                           5) 704 (141 average)

If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church’s Facebook Page. Services are also posted on our YouTube channel “Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church.”  

Prayer requests may be sent directly to the prayer line which is maintained by Sharon Chapman at babcprayer@aol.com, or called into the church at 304-743-5854. 

Offerings may be mailed to the church at P. O. Box 247, Ona, WV 25545. Please mail Sunday School Class (and other groups) offerings directly to your class treasurer.

Your attendance is very much welcome at any time. Love to see everybody back!

OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

Rosemary Walker, May 21, 82 yrs.

Dennie Dailey, May 23, 81 yrs.

Ruth “Peggy” Chapman, May 25, 85 yrs.

Edith Clagg, May 31, 94 yrs.

Keith Cooper, June 2, 82 yrs.

Richard “Buddy” Beckett, June 12, 93 yrs.

OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

Richard & Fay Jackson, May 21, 57 yrs.

Eddie & Debbie Dillon, June 8, 50 yrs.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Thru church treasury                    $40.00

Willing Workers SS Class               $20.00

Norma Mount                               $20.00

Norma writes, “I enjoy your newsletter very much. I am sending a small donation and my new address. Thanks very much.”

Nina Nowlin                                $20.00

In loving memory of my Daddy, the late Homer Nowlin, on his birthday, May 22.

Thank you for your generous support.

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

May: Lamentations

June: I Kings

Evangelistic Outreach Bible Reading Calendars give an Old and New Testament selection to read each day of the year.

A chronological Bible Reading schedule is also available. All these plans are on the front foyer table.

MISSION PROJECTS

In April, we focused on the Huntington City Mission. It is a full-service shelter where homeless persons can have a safe place to sleep and get a warm meal and be shown and told about the love of Christ. We sent them $1,121.

 Our mission project for May is the Eastern Cabell County Humanities Organization (ECCHO), where they organize the collection and distribution of food and clothing donations for those in need. To give, mark ECCHO on the memo line of your check. Thanks!

 CONGRATULATIONS:

To Jozi Morrison and Brad Adams, who were married on April 30. Jozi is the daughter of Danny and Joan Morrison, and granddaughter of Patty and the late Jim Morrison, and the late Pastor Paul and Caroline Meadows.

 To Leslie Turley, who is retiring from American Baptist International Ministries as Area Director of Southeast Asia and Japan on May 31.

 To Kimberly Miller, who has retired from the United States Geological Survey. She will now devote more time to her position as Discipleship Pastor at Teays Valley Church of God.

NEXT MONTH we will be telling you about our graduates, and other school news. Please give info to Jo Ross about your student’s achievements, whether academic, sports, band, and extracurricular activities, from kindergarten on up! We like to brag about our kids.

 The only thing worse than hearing your alarm clock go off is not hearing it.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Baby Nursery workers for Sunday mornings. See Boo Meadows. Also, Children’s Ministry workers are needed.

Safety Team members. See Rick Webb.

Bus/Van drivers. See Pastor Greg. (You need to have a valid driver’s license and be under the age of 70 due to insurance requirements.)

Today’s Forecast: God Reigns and the Son Shines!

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

LEONARD BURKS, 92, of Ona, passed away May 9. He was an uncle of Judy Lawson and John Rimmer.

LLOYD G. CARTER, 87, of Granite Falls, NC passed away April 1. He was an uncle of Karen Bias Elkins.

OKEY LEE CHILDERS, 93, of Ona, whose graveside service was April 18. He was the husband of Della Black Childers, father of Dennis Childers (Becky), grandfather of Jared Childers (Samantha), and Mary Childers (Cathy), and great-grandfather of Abby Ella, Brooklynn and Okey Childers.

ROBERT “ROBBIE” DAVIS, 59, of Milton, passed away May 8. He was a nephew of Donna Clagg.

KENNETH ROBERT DENNISON, 72, of Ona, whose service was May 18. He was the husband of Sandra Kirby Dennison, step-father of Chip Floyd (Amy), and brother-in-law of Greg Kirby. 

BLANE SCOTT EVANS, 65, of Milton, whose funeral was April 15. He was a retired member of the Ona and Milton Volunteer Fire Departments, and he was a friend of Duane Adkins and several in the church.

LAWRENCE SCOTT MCDERMITT, 60, of Letart, passed away May 4. He was the nephew of Jerry Zerkle (Clara).

RONALD RAKES, 72, of Branchland, whose funeral was May 6. He was an uncle of Mollie Perry (James).

JESSIE SALMONS, 93, of Dunlow, WV, passed away April 26. He was the grand-father of Pastor Jason Salmons.

SPRING REVIVAL 

Well, it has been a long time since we have been able to have a revival. This one came at the right time and with the right evangelist. Pastor Tim Messinger of Lighthouse Baptist Church in Milton, who came from our own church, preached great messages May 1-5. We had visiting choirs from Lighthouse, Union, and Barker Ridge. Our own Blessings also sang one night, and our own Grace Abounds sang the final night. The best news is that one young man was saved!

Owning dogs prepares us for babies.

Owning cats prepares us for teenagers. 

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J  The fourth Sunday night Children’s Ministries awards program was on April 23. The Bible hero they had been studying was Jesus! Many children had memorized Matthew 1:21, and they did marvelous when Pastor Greg quizzed them.

J A very generous anonymous donor paid for new paving of the road at Camp Ona. What a wonderful gift! The road is like new from Howell’s Mill Road to the dining hall.

J Our Pastor is teaching a series on Eschatology on Wednesday nights. On May 10, he provided us a helpful guide for his teaching. Don’t miss the Wednesday night service, you will learn a lot and get your mid-week refueling. 

J For the first time since the pandemic, our Sanctuary Choir sang at another church! Susannah Baptist Church on Fudges Creek invited us to sing at their revival on Thurs., April ??, where Paul Michael Booth was the evangelist. Twenty-four were in the choir, and several more in the congregation. Great fellowship.  

J Our Sunday School Superintendent Tom McComas, is the bus driver for the Jesus Kids. (Also, proud grandfather of Keeley Carter, who sings with them.) The kids sing twice at Paramount Senior Living on second Sunday afternoons. First, they sing in the Memory Care Unit, then move to the Assisted Living building. On April 23, Tom shared with us what a blessing he felt the previous Sunday when the Kid sang to the Memory Care patients. As they sang the old hymns to them, some lips began to move and some toes began to tap. The Kids were reaching them! Praise God for their ministry!

J Blessings presented wonderful Easter music and a dramatic presentation of the crucifixion and resurrection on the Sunday after Easter. 

Very powerful. Thank you so much. 

J Lots of folks came out on Saturday, May 6 to help spruce up Camp Ona and get things ready for the camping season. Lots of cleaning and painting. Thanks to everyone who helped in any way. 

J Our annual Community Appreciation Dinner was May 6. The ABWM, with lots of help, prepared turkey and ham and most of the dinner. Ladies brought some side dishes and desserts. Thanks to Sue Short and Half Way Market for the potted flowers that decorated each table. The oldest lady at the table got to take the flower home. The men delivered lots of dinners to shut-ins around the community. It was a wonderful event.

J We had a tie for the oldest mother present on Mother’s Day Sunday. Rowena Bonde and Viola Adkins, both 92, were given gifts by Adult Ministries. Beautiful mothers, both of them!

WOW ACTIVITY

Some of Beulah Ann’s WOW group (widows, widowers, and singles) attended a special breakfast hosted by Kandi Messinger at the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Milton. It was a time for giving as well as receiving. Each of us donated a needful item for the Huntington City Mission. In return we were served a delicious breakfast of assorted rolls and fresh cut up fruits. After eating we were blessed with two wonderful speakers, Linda Close and Linda Leese. Our thanks to Kandi and all who helped prepare the food and for the beautiful table decorations. Also, thanks to Lighthouse’s Youth Group for the cute clay pots of pansies which were given to each of us to take home.                      ~~Rowena Bonde

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

Jesus Kids have been busy. They sang to Paramount Senior Living patients on April 16th. Residents & their families love to hear the kids sing. Then on the 4th Sunday of April the Jesus Kids sang during the Children’s Ministry Awards upstairs in church. The children love learning about their Bible Hero that month and playing trivia with Pastor Greg on questions about that Bible Hero. (I think He enjoys it too). For memorizing this month’s Bible verse the children receive pins for their sashes which they wear on award night. The children are learning as they earn their pins.

Thank you to the ladies and gentlemen who have volunteered to help us during Children’s Church and Vacation Bible School. We are busy planning for our Vacation Bible School coming up this June. We are going to the Outback. Zoomerang (Australian theme). We are returning to the value of Life. If you can help in any way, please contact one of the Children’s ministry team ladies. We promise you will receive a blessing                  ~~Children’s Ministry Team

A life without God is like trying to dribble a football.

CALENDAR

**Sun., May 21, 11 am – Baccalaureate Service with guest speaker Jacob Marshall. See Mitzi Beckett for more details. There are information sheets on the foyer table.

**Sun., May 21, 2 pm – Jesus Kids End of Season Party, at the home of Tom and Susan McComas. (No more practice until August.

**Tues., May 23, 30, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Sun., May 21, 7pm – Children’s Ministry Awards.

**Thurs., May 25, 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Thurs., June 1, 12:30 pm – ABWM Picnic, in the Picnic Shelter behind the Beaver Building. All women are invited. Lunch will be furnished.

**Sun., June 4, 12:15 pm – VBS Planning Meeting, downstairs in the Children’s Ministry area.  See Boo for more details.

**Sun., June 4, 6 pm – ABMM Meeting, Caldwell Classroom.

**Mon., June 5, 7 pm – Board of Deacons Meeting, Family Center.

**Tues., June 6, 13, 20, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Sun.–Thurs., June 25–29, 5:30-8:00 pm – Vacation Bible School – “Zoomerang VBS!” 

FIFTH SUNDAY NIGHT SING

The Bobby Bowen Family Band sang and played for us on April 30. Bobby on guitar, and his wife Becky on uke bass, daughter Faith aged 17 on mandolin, and son Justice, aged 12 on box drum, make up the band. Two older children have grown up and gone, and they miss them, but they still do a great job. Daughter Gracie, age 24, who is wheelchair bound, is their faithful cheering section. They sang many great songs, such as “Old Rugged Cross,” “Blessed Messiah,” “I’ll Rise Again,” “When I See the City Lights,” and “Land of the Free.” (Our own Bobby Bowen, missionary to Uganda, was also in attendance and had her photo taken with him. Ha!)

I have a smart phone, smart TV, smart fridge, smart thermostat … Essentially, I am the dumbest thing in the house.

ADULT MINISTRIES hosted a Mexican Dinner before church service during revival, May 3rd. We had a Taco Bar, Mexican casseroles, salads, and desserts. The food was wonderful and delicious. We served approximately 50 people. Great evening for food and fellowship before Rev. Tim Messenger presented God’s word. Adult Ministry appreciates everyone who brought food, helped with set up and clean up. Thank you for coming and sharing your evening with us during our Mexican Dinner.                ~~Connie Chapman 

CAMP-O-RAMA FUN

April 28-30th was our Annual Spring Camp-O-Rama. We had a really good time. We had only eight campers this year but still had a wonderful time of fellowship with each other. The weather was rainy and sunny all weekend. But we still had an amazing time enjoying what God has created.  

 Saturday evening about forty-five of us came together and ate hot dogs and hamburgers with all the fixings. There might have been a few deserts also!!! 

 We missed several of our campers this year, but it was a very good trip!!!   ~~Erin Carter

We still need many addresses updated for both newsletter mailing and for the church directory, due to the 911 Addressing Project. (The government’s deadline for you to have your address changed is August, which will be here before you know it! Mail without the new address on it may not be delivered.) If you live in the Ona area, and the address we have for you has “Route” and “Box” in it, it is probably out of date. Please let us know your new address. Our contact information is on the top of page one. Thanks!

Every family has at least one weird relative. If you don’t know who it is, it is probably you.

WHIPPOORWILL COVERED CAMP FIRE DEDICATED MAY 6, 2023

If you have attended Camp Cowen, you have very likely enjoyed a service in the covered campfire. Now the West Virginia Baptist Convention Center at Parchment Valley has one! It is called the Whippoorwill.

Frank Miller, Director of Operations, recalled how just before the pandemic, a young man attending Brother’s Keeper camp at Parchment Valley was depressed and considering taking his own life because of a car crash that had taken the life of his friend, and he felt responsible. At campfire, fellow campers prayed for him, and he was saved! This experience and more caused Frank to be aware of how powerful campfire experiences can be. He had a great desire to have a year-round campfire ministry, where inclement weather would not be an issue. 

Funding came from faithful members of WV Baptist Churches. (The American Baptist Women pledged $6,000 toward the bleachers, and our ABWM donated towards this goal.) The name came from some early volunteers who loved hearing the Whippoorwills in the woods at Parchment Valley. The blueprints came from the covered campfire at Camp Cowen. The Bowhunters Group that meets at PV has donated a 12-foot cross made of 150-year-old barn wood. The Whippoorwill Covered Campfire will seat about 350 people with a 15×20 stage.