FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

1 JOHN 2:16 – For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Satan seduced Eve by appealing to these worldly desires. The lust of the flesh is physical desire. The forbidden fruit was good for food. It fulfilled her physical desire to eat and be full. The fruit was beautiful. It fulfilled her visual desire to possess its beauty. And it could make one wise, which appealed to her pride or ambition. The deceiver exploited Eve then, and he manipulates others today. He is the roaring, devouring lion. He craves you and your spouse, your children, and your grandchildren. And he won’t stop until the Lord casts him into the Lake of Fire. So, we must raise the gates of godliness against the devil’s wiles and resist him in the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.

The lust of the flesh is the evil desire to fulfill physical pleasures rather than enjoy godly blessings. The lust of the eyes is the evil desire to possess things that draw one’s focus and attention away from God. Finally, the pride of life is the sinful selfishness of placing our interests ahead of the Lord’s. Unfortunately, some believe they can indulge all three and still receive God’s blessings. Several public religious figures espouse unbiblical philosophies that your best life is here and now, name it and claim it, and challenge God.

Scripture says, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you” (1 Peter 5:6, 7). So, the Creator of the universe cares for, loves, and desires a relationship with you. Therefore, humble yourself before Him, and know true forgiveness, love, and peace.                                                     ~~ Pastor Greg

FEBRUARY SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

February 5               136

February 12             131               

February 19             112

February 26             144

                           4) 523 (131 average)

If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on the Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church Facebook page (church building is the profile pic). 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

Naomi Dailey, March 25, 83 years

Jean Casey, April 7, 91 years

Phyllis Spurlock, April 9, 84 years

OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

George & Linda Leese, Mar. 28, 56 yrs.

Jerry & Barbara Johnson, April 1, 57 yrs.

Jennings & Jane Hatfield, April 2, 54 yrs.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Thru church treasury                      $50.00

Linda Lafferre                               $20.00

Anonymous                                   $20.00

Nina Nowlin                                  $20.00

Psalm 23:6 (KJV) “…and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever.” In Loving Memory of Mommy (the late Maye Nowlin, who moved to Heaven on 3/21/10) and in Memory of Daddy (the late Homer Nowlin).

Thank you for your generous support.

*Tax Reports: For a copy of the amount you tithed for 2022, please see Brenda Lawson. 

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

March: 1^st & 2^nd Peter and Jude

April: Jeremiah

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.

You are encouraged to read the Bible through in 2023! It is not too late to start, just double up until you are caught up. 

MISSION PROJECTS

In February, we gave to help New Beginnings Crisis Pregnancy Center in Huntington, where they offer compassionate counseling and assistance to women and families during pregnancy, to assist the healthy birth of a child. We gave $142.00 

In March, our project is Global Outreach servant Bobby Bowen. Although she has not been able to return to Uganda after having to leave due to the pandemic, she still manages the food program and other work via the internet. The need in Uganda is great. To give, just put Bobby Bowen on the memo line of your check.   

In February, we gathered towels for Harmony House, which seeks to end homelessness in Huntington. What a wonderful response! We took them 56 bath towels, 6 hand towels, and over 60 wash cloths, which were really appreciated. In March, we are asking for disposable diapers of any size, for Branches Domestic Violence Shelter for Women in Huntington. When women flee dangerous situations, they bring their babies with them! Just put your donation in the basket in the front foyer, and thank you.   

We are still needing some addresses updated due to the 911 Addressing Project. 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. Thanks! 

NEW MEMBERS

On February 25, Pastor Greg baptized Colter Queen, and his sons Tazwell, age 8, and Cannon, age 6. Colter was saved when he was 15, but was never baptized. Tazwell felt the need for salvation after viewing Pastor Greg’s last film. Praise the Lord!

On March 5, Daniel Cook, and his daughter Isabella, called “Bella,” age 12, were also baptized. Daniel had been baptized in the Methodist church, but wanted to be baptized with his daughter. Also, Austin Smith, age 10, presented himself for baptism and was baptized the same day. He is the nephew of Tyler Smith.

Welcome to all these wonderful folks!

THANK YOU

Dear Beulah Ann,

Thank you for your faithful giving. We are excited to see how the Lord uses A New Beginning this year as we are hoping to offer ultrasound. God Bless! 

             Diane Bilbrey, Director

On behalf of Lily’s Place, I would like to sincerely thank you for your generous gift of $376. The funds will help us support the clients we serve in life-changing ways.

                                     Emileigh Cremeens, Development Associate

Dear Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church,

Thank you for your recent gift of $1,589 to the Huntington City Mission. Your generosity makes a difference and give hope to those experiencing homelessness. In Christ, 

                                     Mitch Webb, Executive Director 

Thank you so very much for your generosity and kindness to our Knight’s Great Hall. We are blessed to have your support. We are able to help many families in our community.            Tracey Urian, CMHS Counselor

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.)

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

LOLA MAE BRUMFIELD, 95, of Harts, whose funeral was March 11. She was an aunt of Mollie Perry. 

ELIZABETH “LIBBY” BURKS, 94, of Barboursville, whose funeral service was Feb. 25. She was the widow of Harry Burks, and she is survived by her daughters Dianna Adkins, Linda (David) Brown, and Terri (Greg) Priddy, and three grandchildren. She was a long-time faithful member of our church.

EDGAR H. LAMBERT, 88, of Cabell County. No services were planned.  He was Becky Childers’ boss.  

KENNETH ROSCOE LUCAS, 92, of Milton, whose funeral was March 4. He was a brother-in-law of the late Fred Lunsford.

JUDITH PAULETTE ROSS, 76, of Milton, whose funeral was Feb. 23. She was an aunt of Karen (Kevin) Elkins.

OTHELLA “PUG” RYDER, 88, of Lesage, whose funeral service was Feb. 28. She was the sister-in-law of Bill Ryder.

TERRY MICHAEL TOPPING, 83, of Ona. He was the father-in-law of Mary Topping.

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J Beulah Ann took ten men to the annual ABMM Prayer Breakfast, held at Fifth Avenue Baptist this year on Feb. 25. About 40 were in attendance to eat good food, hear sweet singing, had good fellowship, and heard a good devotional presented by Monty Foster.

J Only five Jesus Kids were able to sing for us on Feb. 19, but what a wonderful job they did! They sang Jesus Reigns and Little by Little, and they blessed us greatly.

J On Feb. 26, the Austin McCoy Band brought our special music. They sang Anthem, Only King Forever, Yes I Will, and other great songs.

J The sweet sound of Amazing Grace on the violin blessed us on March 12. Thank you, Vera Miller.

J The Faithful Servants had fun at a skeet shoot at Camp Ona on Feb. 25. Word is that the shooting skills of Aleah Dillon put all the boys to shame!

My friend Joe recently went on the Dolly Parton diet.

How did it work?

It really made Joe lean, Joe lean, Joe lean, Joe lean!

CALENDAR:

**Mon., Mar. 20, 27, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Mon., Mar. 20, 5:45 pm – Ladies Bible Study based on Max Lucado’s book, He Chose the Nails.  (This is a 5-week study.) See Connie Chapman for more details.

**Thurs., Mar. 23, 30, 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Sat., March 25, 9 am – 2 pm – Ladies Spring Retreat at Beulah Church in Proctorville, Ohio. For more info and a registration form, see Connie Chapman.

**Sun., March 26, 7 pm – Children’s Awards.

**Sat., April 1, 5 pm – Primitive Quartet Farewell Tour, Paramount Arts Center, Ashland, KY.

**Sun., April 2, 6 pm – ABWM, Family Center, ABMM, Caldwell Classroom.

**Sun., April 2, 12:15 pm – VBS Planning Meeting, Children’s Area downstairs.

**Mon., April 3, 7 pm – Combined Boards Meeting, Family Center.

**Tues., April 4,11,18,25, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Thurs., April 6,13,20,27, 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Sat., April 8 – Children’s Ministry Easter Egg Hunt, Family Center.

**Sun., April 9 – Newsletter Deadline.

**Sun., April 9, 11 am – Ordinance of Communion.

** Fri.-Sat. April 14-15 – AB Men’s Work Party at Parchment Valley.

**Fri.-Sun., April 14–16 – Women’s Camp at Camp Cowen.

**Sun., April 16, 2:45 pm – Jesus Kids will sing at Paramount Senior Living.

**Wed., April 19, 7 pm – Quarterly Business Meeting.

**Sun., April 23, 7 pm – Children’s Awards.

**Fri.-Sun., April 28-30 – Spring Camp–a–Rama, at Beech Fork State Park.

PLANNING AHEAD:

**Sat., May 13, 6 pm – Community Dinner.

**Sun., May 21 – Baccalaureate Service.

**Sun.–Thurs., June 25–29 – Vacation Bible School.

When older people say, “Enjoy them while they’re young,” they are talking about your knees and hips, not your kids.

“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.”

Proverbs 17:22 KJV

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

We have had a revival down in our Children’s Ministry area. Three children have been saved and in the last few weeks were baptized. Another child had been saved last year but wanted to get baptized also. PRAISE THE LORD!! Two of the families’ fathers were baptized along with their children. What a glorious time. These homes will be forever changed to the Glory of God: Taz and Cannon Queen and their father Colter Queen;

Isabella Cook and her father Daniel Cook. Also
Austin Smith (Tyler Smith’s nephew). Pray for more to come forward.

Children’s ministry awards and Bible quiz show with Pastor Greg took place Sunday night March 26th. So proud of our kids for saying their Bible verse and what they have learned about Abraham.

Due to illness Jesus Kids were not able to go to Paramount nursing home last week. But on April 16th Sunday afternoon they will be returning there. Please pray for the residents there.

We are getting ready for our Easter Egg Hunt on April 8th. We have plenty of eggs just need candy to fill them. We will be having it at the Beulah Ann Family Center. Please spread the word.

Vacation Bible School – “Zoomerang VBS” is being planned too for June. Please pray about volunteering.

                          ~~Children’s Ministry Team

NEW LIFE FOR SUNDAY SCHOOL QUARTERLIES

In years past, we collected all the expired quarterlies and took them to Twentieth Street Baptist Church (now New Baptist), and from there they were taken to a warehouse in Cincinnati, where they were distributed where they could be used. When that opportunity ended, we simply took them to a recycling center, but that effort also didn’t pan out. Now, Paul Hinkley has volunteered to collect them, and send them to Love Packages in Butler, IL, from where they send donated Bibles and Christian literature all over the world in support of international missions. At the end of each quarter, just drop them in the big box outside Pastor Greg’s office. Thank you, Paul!

LADIES BIBLE STUDY 

The first part of our two-part Bible Study series was completed on February 27, 2023. “Because of Bethlehem,” by Max Lucado. We had great attendance ranging from 19 to 25 women. The focus of the Bible Study was God Has a Face, Worship Works Wonders, God Guides the Wise and Every Heart a Manger. The food and fellowship were wonderful. On March 13, 2023, the second part of the Bible Study series “He Chose the Nails” by Max Lucado began.  Focus points:  He Chose to Be One of Us, He Chose to Forgive Us, He Chose to Invite Us into His Presence, He Chose to Love Us Forever and He Chose to Give Us Victory. We start at 5:30 pm and we bring a variety of snacks and try to start the Bible Study around 6:15. All women are welcome to attend. This will be a five-week study.                             ~~Connie Chapman

CHILI AND SOUP COOK-OFF

On Sunday, March 5, 2023 we had the 5^th Chili and Soup Cook-Off after the morning message.  We were pleased to have Kelly Daniels, principal at CMHS in attendance at our 11 am service, and CMHS Counselor, our own Jenna McComas. Ms. Daniels gave a wonderful talk telling us how our support of the Knight’s Great Hall is appreciated.

Fourteen varieties of chilis and soups were entered in our Cook-off. After “much tasting from the judges,” Debbie Dillion was awarded First Place for her pot of chili and she received a beautiful engraved water bottle from Blenko.  The winner of the fan-favorite chili was 9 yr. old Keeley Carter. (She had a little help from her dad, Chris Carter.) Keeley’s jar was filled with $842.00! She was also given a beautiful water bottle from Blenko. The total amount raised for Cabell Midland High School’s Knight’s Great Hall was $3,254.00. Adult Ministries wishes to thank everyone for their participation in making the Fifth Chili and Soup Cook-off successful.  Big thank you to the judges and all who donated money to this cause. Thanks to everyone for setting up and taking down the table and chairs, and to all the people helping with clean up.                                               ~~Connie Chapman

MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST

On March 11, 2023, Adult Ministries sponsored a Men’s Prayer Breakfast for Beulah Ann, Lighthouse Baptist and Sunrise Baptist churches, with 35 attending the men’s breakfast.  David Collins and Ed Braley prepared the food with David making homemade sausage gravy, fried apples and potatoes, biscuits, eggs, bacon, and a special casserole made by Leigh Ann Bellomy. Lots of coffee, milk and orange juice. The men enjoyed the good food and fellowship with each other and devotion by Pastor Tim Messenger.  Thank you, David Collins and Ed Braley for your fantastic cooking skills. Thank you, Tim for the devotion.                                                   ~~Connie Chapman

BAMBY NEWS 

We have been very busy lately. On Saturday 2/25, 16 teens and a few adults volunteered for a morning of packing boxes and sorting food for the Facing Hunger Foodbank. We packaged frozen beef and venison and filled boxes for Senior Citizens in the service area. Over 7,000 lbs. of food were packed and readied for delivery. The teens love to volunteer there and when they do, they work really hard. Following the work, we enjoyed lunch at Cookout before returning back to the church.

Friday March 10^th, we joined seven other churches in Rec the Rec Weekend. The last time we were able to do this was the weekend prior to everything shutting down for COVID so it was GREAT to get back together. The evening started at Marshall University Campus Christian Center with pizza and chips. We then entered the sanctuary for a praise and worship service with music provide by Painted Skies and our speaker was Dale Sutherland. Following the service, all 200 teens and their adult leaders walked to the Rec Center where we swam, played volleyball, basketball, did rock climbing and just hung out until 5:30 am. Everyone, including the adults had a great time.                                        ~~Mitzi Beckett

 TRUSTEES REPORT – WARMING STATION

The trustees have been busy working on a “Warming Station.” This will be a place for heat & electric for families when the power is off for a while. This is powered by a generator for the Family Center & the bathrooms. This week the Trustees finished the wiring and it is ready to be used. Thank you, trustees for all your hard work on this.

SAMARATIN’S PURSE OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD HITS 200 MILLION MARK

A special report from Operation Christmas Child shares the good news that in 2023, this ministry which started in 1993 gave the box that marked 200 million to a child in war-torn Ukraine. On a bitterly cold and cloudy day, dozens of displaced and orphaned children arrived at the outreach event. God used Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts to bring joy and the eternal Light of Christ into their lives. The symbolic 200 millionth box was handed to 8 yr.-old Natalya, who immediately clung to the yellow flashlight inside her box. She said she was excited to have a light to help her not be afraid when she has to run to the basement during air raids. 

Yulia’s son and daughter also received boxes. “This was amazing,” she said. “My children had to leave all their toys, and I almost never see them happy anymore. My son, Vitaliy, kept begging me for Legos because they were his favorite, and he left them all behind when we fled. I am so thankful to God that he received Legos in his shoebox today.” 

NEW AMERICAN BAPTIST INTERNATIONAL MISSIONARY COMMISSIONED

Sarah McCloy, the 42^nd international missionary to be commissioned from West Virginia, was commissioned on May 5 at Parchment Valley. Leslie Turley took part in the service. Sarah had six weeks training in North Carolina at the Center of Intercultural Training, which was 4 weeks of studying cross-cultural skills and 2 weeks studying language learning techniques. She is at 100% of recurring support, which is a major milestone. She has an apartment waiting for her in Sendai, Japan. She will be teaching part-time at Shokei University and will work in the Chaplain’s department. She asks for prayer for her journey, and prayer that her residential visa is approved in time for her planned departure in May.

Up from the grave He arose, with a mighty triumph o’er His foes. 

He arose a victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever with His saints to reign. 

He arose! He arose! 

Hallelujah! Christ arose!

VOLUME 66 * NUMBER 2 * FEBRUARY 2023

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY VOLUNTEERS (IN MEMORY OF MILDRED CALDWELL, EDITOR FOR NEARLY 60 YEARS)

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

PSALM 111:10 says in part, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom:…”

We live in a world where knowledge increases exponentially every few years, but wisdom creeps at a snail’s pace. Merriam-Webster defines knowledge as “the sum of what is known.” Tomorrow we’ll know something more. It’s incredible to imagine what we’ll know in another fifty years. I am concerned for my son and all those growing up in this world. We’re building mega-cities in places once considered uninhabitable and constructing great monuments to human ingenuity in concrete and steel that reach into the heavens. Like those who conceived the tower of Babel, we seek to glorify humanity and climb up on God’s throne. Lucifer sought the same and was cast down and bound for the Lake of Fire.

We need to relearn the Fear of God. We take for granted the life He provides us. We expect His blessing even though we don’t deserve it and are frequently ungrateful when it comes. A wise man or woman will humble themselves before a holy, righteous, and merciful Savior. He will surrender His will to the Creator. She will seek His face. Wisdom knows how to employ knowledge. For anyone seeking it, the Bible is the book for you. Proverbs provide chunks of digestible wisdom, which, if applied, will enable you to stand on the solid ground of biblical truth in a world slinging anything but the truth.Jesus said, “…Fear him which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell…” (Luke 12:5). Satan does not have that power. The US Government, United Nations, or any council or organization has no such authority. Only God has such power, and yet, God has offered the means of rescue and redemption in Jesus Christ. Therefore, fear the God of Creation for all he can do and stand in awe of him for His great love toward us.                                                                                                                                               ~~ Pastor Greg

JANUARY SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

January 1                116
January 8                146
January 15              149
January 22              119
January 29              117

                           5) 647 (129 average) 

If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on these Facebook pages: Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist (church building is the profile pic); 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 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

Rose Thomson, Feb. 25, 93 yrs.

Delores Jean Burks, March 15, 88 yrs.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Thru church treasury                    $479.00
Buddy Beckett                              $100.00
Gene Caldwell                                $20.00
Beverly Harshbarger                      $20.00

Beverly, who lives in Wichita, Kansas, writes, “In memory of Tim. No matter where he went his heart never left West Virginia.” 

Junior Lee Chapman                      $25.00

Junior writes, “Thank you, we appreciate your newsletter about the people in our area!”

Thank you for your generous support.

CONGRATULATIONS to Tucker & Jessica Neal on the birth of another baby boy, Cohen John Neal on Feb. 8. He is the ninth great-grandchild of Peggy Neal!

God loves knee-mail.

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

On the foyer table, you will find the WVBC ABM’s Bible reading plan. When you read one book each month, you will read the Bible through in five years. In February, read Esther, and in March, read 1^st and 2^nd Peter, and Jude. 

Also, Evangelistic Outreach provides us with very nice calendars which have a reading plan in the back that gives you a reading from both the Old and New Testaments each day. Thank you, Pastors Cal Ray Evans and Brian Baer.

Also, for 2023, we are also offering a chronological Bible reading schedule, if you want to try something different. It is also on the foyer table.

CONGRATULATIONS to these Bible readers, who completed reading the entire Bible in 2022: Vera Miller, Deloris Peyton, Carrie Hunt, Rachael Hunt, and Reese Hunt.

MISSION PROJECTS

In January, our project is the Knight’s Great Hall at Cabell Midland High School. The counselors there oversee the confidential distribution of food, clothing, school supplies, and personal care items either donated or bought with donations. There is great need among the students and their families. Including gifts given for Gene Caldwell’s 100^th birthday party, we gave $1,455 in January.

In February, we are giving to help New Beginnings Crisis Pregnancy Center in Huntington, where they offer compassionate counseling and assistance to women and families during pregnancy, to assist the healthy birth of a child. To give, please write NBCPC on your check memo.

The ABWM Mission Outreach Project for January was snacks for the Veteran’s Home in Barboursville. They really appreciated all the snacks we took to them. In February, we are gathering towels of all kinds for Harmony House, which seeks to end homelessness in Huntington. To help, please bring gently used or new towels and place them in the basket in the foyer. Thank you in advance.

Running feels great unless you compare it to not running.

THANK YOU

After this newsletter is composed, edited and printed, there is till much work to be done. Each month, a faithful group of volunteers, usually about 5 or 6 folks, gather to fold the letters and attach address labels, and bundled them by zip codes. In January, I was made aware that most of our faithful workers were either sick or otherwise obligated on the “work party” day. I made an announcement on Wednesday night asking for more help and wow! Thirteen folks showed up! Thanks, and I hope you all keep coming. It just takes about an hour of your time and is very appreciated. Also, many thanks to Kim Rider, who prints our address labels each month.                                        ~~Jo Ross 

Thanks so much. What a thoughtful thing to do. A beautiful quilted throw for these long, cool evenings. Keep us in your prayers, as we do you. May we all be together soon.                                                 Love, Ed & Chris Watson

The family of centenarian Gene Caldwell would like to thank everyone who helped, contributed, or attended his 100^th Birthday Party on Jan. 15. Special thanks to the Caldwell Sunday School Class for supplying all the salads, the Willing Workers Sunday School Class who supplied the breads, the Faithful Servants Sunday School Class for helping set up and serve, and Youth Ministries for putting away the tables and chairs. Thanks also to WOWK-TV 13 news who covered the event. Dad was surprised by a visit by a member of the WV Legislature, who presented him with a certificate from WV, and by a wonderful gift package from the Cincinnati Reds. But most of all, he was surprised and humbled by the donations you gave to the Knight’s Great Hall and the Huntington City Mission in lieu of gifts. Again, thank you all so much.

Thank you, guys, so much for the generous donation to our Knights Great Hall. Our community can receive food and clothes as needed. We appreciate your support!                                                                             Tracy Urian, CMHS Counselor

Someone said “thirty years ago” and my mind said “Yes! The 1970’s,” but they meant 1993 and now I have to lay down.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

ANA M. ARCHER, 45, of Huntington, whose service was Jan. 30. She was a former co-worker and friend of Debbie Sansom.

EVERETT LEO CHLDERS, 81, of Milton, whose service was Jan. 18. He was a friend to many in the church. 

GOLDEN COLLINS, 91, of Culloden, passed away Feb. 12. Among his survivors are his daughter Goldie Bostic and grandsons Jamie and Shawn Bostic.

BALLARD KENNETH FETTY, 95, of Huntington, whose funeral was Feb. 11. He was a brother of Earl Fetty, and uncle of Nona Rimmer.

JOAN M. LOVEJOY, 69, of Huntington, whose funeral was Jan. 27. She was the wife of Steve Lovejoy, and friend and co-worker of several in our church. 

BETTY ELAINE MEADOWS, 85, of Milton, whose funeral was Feb. 9. She was the former co-owner of Half-Way Market in Milton. She is survived by her daughters Beth Williamson and Buffy Meadows, and son Bruce Meadows. 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Baby Nursery workers for Sunday mornings. See Boo Meadows.

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.)

We are still needing some addresses updated due to the 911 Addressing Project. 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. Thanks! 

*Tax Reports: If you need a copy of the amount you tithed for 2022, please see Brenda Lawson. 

On my best day, I am a child of God. On my worst day, I am a child of God.

I have a fear of speed bumps, but I am slowly getting over it. 

CALENDAR:

**Sun., Feb. 19, noon – Chili and Soup Cookoff. Blenko prizes will be awarded to the chili/soup selected by a panel of judges, and the chili/soup that gets the most donations. All donations will go to the Knight’s Great Hall.

**Mon., Feb. 20, 27, Mar. 6 – 5:30 pm – Ladies Bible Study based on Max Lucado’s book, Because of Bethlehem. (Feb. 20 is the third week of the 5-week study). See Connie Chapman for more details.

**Tues., Feb. 21, 28, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Thur., Feb. 23, 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Sat., Feb. 25, 9 am – AB Men’s Prayer Breakfast at 5^th Ave. Baptist Church in Huntington. Please let Pastor Greg know if you plan to attend.

**Sat., Feb. 25, 9 am – Youth Ministries will be going to assist at Facing Hunger Food Bank, Huntington.

**Sun., Feb. 26, 7 pm – Children’s Ministry Awards.

**Fri., March 10 – Youth Ministries will be participating in Rec the Rec at Marshall University.

**Sat., March 11, 9 am – Beulah Ann Men’s Breakfast, sponsored by Adult Ministries. More details coming. 

PLANNING AHEAD:

**Sat., April 1, 5 pm – Primitive Quartet Farewell Tour, Paramount Arts Center, Ashland, KY.

**Sat., April 8 – Children’s Ministry Easter Egg Hunt, Family Center.

**Fri.-Sun., April 28-30 – Spring Camp–a–Rama, at Beech Fork State Park.

**Sat., May 13, 6 pm – Community Dinner.

**Sun., May 21 – Baccalaureate Service.

**Sun.–Thurs., June 25–29 – Vacation Bible School.

SUNDAY SCHOOL QUARTERLIES: At the end of this quarter, we will once again be collecting our used quarterlies. A box will be placed in the hallway outside Pastor Greg’s office. Paul Hinkley will send them to Love Packages in Butler, IL, from where they send donated Bibles and Christian literature all over the world in support of international missions. Just drop them in the box!

CRITTER DINNER IS BACK!

After a long covid-19 break, we once again gathered to appreciate the bounty the Lord provides in nature for us to eat. Bison, blue gill, catfish, crawfish, deer, elk, frog legs, ox tail, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, shrimp, trout, and wild hog were the featured dishes, along with the usual hot dogs for those with more sophisticated palates. As usual, the crowd was BIG! Thanks to the AB Men who organized and hosted this event, and to all who brought side dishes and desserts. We had a great time fellowshipping and meeting some new folks.

Also, this hunting season’s BIG BUCK contest winner was announced – JD Dillon got not one, but two ten pointers and was awarded a special knife. Young hunters were also presented certificates – Aleah Dillon, and Jeremiah and Isaac Wiseman. Great going, guys!

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J Our Fifth Sunday Night Sing got flipped over on Jan. 29. Fifth Sundays are Pastor Greg’s day off, and we usually have a guest speaker in the morning, and singers in the evening. But on Jan. 29, we welcomed guest singer Corey Clark from Alkol, WV. What a blessing to hear his wonderful voice singing such amazing songs. And for a special treat, he played the piano for his young daughter Brayden to sing, “Let Me Tell You About My Jesus.” The Holy Spirit was definitely with us that morning! Then in the evening, Chelsie Gibson brought the sermon after Blessings sang. 

J Quarterly Business Meeting was Wednesday, Jan. 18. The church budget for 2023 was passed. You may pick up a copy on the front foyer table. 

J Lighthouse Baptist Church in Milton invited our Widows, Widowers and Singles group to join them for a baked potato bar lunch on Feb. 4. Everyone was asked to bring a stuffed animal, and the animal collection was given to the Milton Police Department, to comfort children caught in bad situations.      

Your call is very important to us…please hold for a 40-minute drum solo.  (Joke contributed by Jim Ross.)

Cats can memorize 120 commands, but they don’t want to.

SOUPERBOWL OF CARING 

Youth Ministries hosted a Soup and Salad Supper on Wednesday Feb 8^th to raise money for our Souperbowl of Caring project – the Huntington City Mission. Thanks to those who attended, donated or helped us prepare food, we raised $252. Sunday Feb. 12^th was Souperbowl Sunday where the teens had soup pots at the doors to also collect donations.  $1,087 was collected that morning bringing our grand total to $1,339. Thank you all so much for your generosity.

We will be returning to Facing Hunger Foodbank Sat., Feb 25^th. If you have teens, please encourage them to participate in this time of Serving Him by Serving Others.                                     ~~Mitzi Beckett

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

Our Bible Hero for January was Noah. The children love the story of the ark & the rainbow.

Kids have been busy learning their January Bible verse – Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” On the 4th Sunday the kids earned their awards for their sashes. They are soooo very proud of their sashes & awards. The school age kids remained upstairs that night to hear their favorite Pastor Greg preach. Thank you, Pastor Greg for always taking time for our kids.

In February the Bible Hero is Abraham. Let’s see how many can learn this month’s verse – Genesis 12:2. Awards will be on the 4th Sunday.

Jesus Kids sang at Paramount Senior Living Sunday, Feb. 12^th. We like what Tom McComas said as he was driving the church bus for us. “Kids you are being a missionary when you go in singing about the love of our Jesus to those residents.” Below are some of the resident’s comments:

“We look forward to the kids coming each month and thank you to the ones who bring them.”
“They are a blessing to us!”
“What church are you with?”
The 2^nd Sunday of each month the Jesus Kids minister at Paramount Senior Living from 2:45 – 4:30 pm.Come join us one Sunday for a blessing!! Pray for our kids.                    ~~Children’s Ministry Team

The February-March issue of the WV BAPTIST Magazine includes the “2022 Impact Report.” Here is just a part of that report:

Camp Cowen:

1,321 campers last summer

61 youth accepted Christ

12 cabins got new windows

7 cabins got electrical upgrades 

Parchment Valley:

299 events hosted

18 summer camps

69 individuals accepted Christ

18 youth groups from 7 states completed 33 projects at Brother’s Keeper

Baptist Campus Ministries:

285 students being discipled each week

75 students at Fall Retreat

9 university campuses 

Leadership Development:

9 pastoral ordinations

8 new pastors serving WVBC churches

8 young adults served as Ministry Interns

Disaster Relief:

$318,872 given to support disaster relief around the world

20+ teams sent from our churches to help with relief efforts

8 states and Puerto Rico received direct support from our churches

Education:

14 persons received scholarships from the WV Baptist Education Society

14 girls received scholarships from the WV AB Women

54 students took classes and

10 students graduated from the Bobby Wood School of Christian Studies.

6 students graduated from the WV Palmer Theological Seminary

1 new scholarship program was formed by the WV AB Men 

Global Missions:

$567,456 given to support global missions

36 countries impacted by WVBC support

26 missionaries supported by WVBC churches

1 newly endorsed missionary – Sarah McCloy

Give Him the glory, great things He hath done!

WONDERFUL MISSIONARY VISIT

On the evening of Feb. 5, we welcomed WVBC International missionaries Keith and Debbie Myers, who are in the USA on sabbatical from their home in Mexico. Keith gave an inspiring sermon based on the Great Commission, urging us to embrace the word, “Go.” We are to be making disciples and to be the church outside the walls of the building.

The Myers’ have been married twenty-eight years and have two adult children. Boyden, age 25, lives in Morgantown, and daughter Bailey, age 23, is in Columbus, OH.

They have been serving in Mexico for ten years. Their home is in the town of Pueblo, which is in the Mexican state of Chiapas. They serve thirty-five churches in four states, which is a territory roughly the size from WV to Georgia. But the roads are not good, so even though they are centrally located, the nearest church to them is a two-and-a-half-hour drive, and some churches are fourteen hours away. 

We may think that everyone in Mexico speaks Spanish, but this is not the case. There are sixty-six languages spoken in Mexico, and Spanish is the newest. The Myers’ serve the indigenous peoples of the four states in southern-most Mexico, and they represent six cultures with six different languages. Keith and Debbie speak Spanish, and use interpreters.

Their main focus is on Pastoral Leadership development, and Women’s Ministries. Debbie told us that indigenous women over the age of fifty do not speak Spanish and are illiterate, as education was not available to them as children. But women under thirty can speak Spanish and can read, so they have formed small groups in the churches, so that the older women can share their wisdom with the younger ones, who can read the Bible to them. (The WV AB Women’s Ministries have adopted the Mexico Women’s Ministries as our Mission Outreach Project this year.) 

The Myers’ Prayer Cards can be found on the front foyer table. Please take one to remind you to pray for them, and it also offers the opportunity to support them. You can also follow them on their Facebook page called Myers’ Missions.

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

 Luke 2:11 – For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Preachers often take a verse of Scripture and craft a sermon. I have and will again. But the more I read and study God’s word, the more I understand every word has power. Two words can transform a life for all eternity. So, consider our verse, Luke 2:11, and let’s focus on the words “…this day…”

When was Jesus born? Critics of Christianity say it wasn’t on December 25th. God’s angelic messenger didn’t say it was. He said it was “…this day…” Jesus was born in time and history. This day you have a choice. Will you believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God who was born “…this day…” to save the lost? Or will you reject him and wait for another day? When December 25th arrives, what will you do with “…this day…?” I would expect non-believers to get up, put on a pot of coffee, and spend the day opening presents, overeating, and lying around the house. Sadly, I believe many Christians will be doing the same things.

Christian, what will you do with “…this day…?” A savior was born on “…this day…” He deserves our best sacrifice of praise and worship, not our lame and leftovers. If we choose not to reverence “…this day…” and live like the world, we smirk in the face of a holy and righteous God and devalue the greatest gift of all time. Give God your best this year, on “…this day…” Choose to honor and glorify Him on Christmas day. Beulah Ann will have church on Christmas Day. It’s the Lord’s Day. Sunday School is at 10 am, and worship is at 11 am. And, yes, we will have service Sunday evening at 7 pm. Give God your very best on “…this day…” And Merry Christmas!                                                                               ~~Pastor Greg

NOVEMBER SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

November 6             136

November 13           127               

November 20           124

November 27           118

                           4) 505 (126) average 

The church is thoroughly cleaned between all services. If you cannot attend, all services are streamed live on the Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church Facebook page (church building is the profile pic). You can also watch it 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!

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-Year Plan

December – John

January – Proverbs

Daily Bible reading calendars for 2022 are on the foyer table, courtesy of Evangelistic Outreach.

For 2023, we are also offering a chronological Bible reading schedule, if you want to try something different.

OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

 Buddy & Betty Beckett, Jan. 2, 63 yrs.

OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

 Mary Adkins Taylor, Jan. 8, 83 yrs.

Jerry Zerkle, Jan. 16, 82 yrs.

CONGRATULATIONS to Luke Lunsford, son of Pastor Greg and Jeanne Lunsford, who recently broke the Cabell Midland High School record for swimming the breast stroke. 

CONGRATULATIONS to Morgan Zerkle, daughter of Matt and Becky Zerkle, and granddaughter of Jerry and Clara Zerkle, who played on the USA’s Women’s Softball Team that won a Gold Medal in the Pan American Games held in Guatemala in November. Way to go, Morgan

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Anonymous                                 $50.00

Willing Workers SS Class           $20.00

Linda Lafferre                             $20.00

Brenda Puryear                           $275.00

(Brenda’s contribution will pay for our Annual Mailing Permit in January!)

Thank you for your generous support.

We are still needing some addresses updated due to the 911 Addressing Project. 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. Thanks! 

THANK YOU

To our church family,

We would like to thank each and every one who shared our special day with us. We appreciate all the love and prayers and ask that you continue to pray for us. We are so blessed to be a part of this church and we love all of you.

                                  Willie & Dorey Rose

 Hello Beulah Ann,

Thank you so much for your support of BCM and especially BCM at Marshall University. God is doing great things on this campus. 

                                    In Christ, Rob Ely

 Dear Church Family,

Thank you so much for all the years that you have showed us love through the holidays. The goody baskets and gift card have always been appreciated and put to good use. We love each and every one of you and continue to keep you in our prayers.  

                               Bruce & Peggy Chapman

 Beulah Ann Church,

Thank you so much for the Christmas Gift Bag, very much appreciated. God bless all, love to all, and Merry Christmas.          

                                Sandy Hagley

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

JOHN BURTON “JB” CALDWELL, 63, of Ona, whose funeral was Dec. 2. He was predeceased by his father, John Caldwell, and his wife, Robin Caldwell. He is survived by his mother Judy Brose, sister Amy (Bil) Neal, daughter Amanda McClellan, son Josh Caldwell, two grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and his fiancée, Karen Morrison. He was a member of our church.

MITZI GAIL CHAFFIN, 63, Huntington, whose funeral was Dec. 2. She was a sister of Pastor Paul Michael Booth. 

LORI DINGESS, 4 months old, whose funeral was Nov. 16. She was the daughter of Rusty and Kristen Dingess, and the granddaughter of Rev. Mark Finley (Debbie), Pastor of Sunrise Temple Baptist Church, and great-granddaughter of Barbara and the late Russell Blake.

PATRICK A. KIRBY, 61, of Huntington, passed away Nov. 23. He was predeceased by his parents Vinston and Hazel Kirby. He is survived by several siblings, including Greg Kirby. He was a member of our church. 

DR. JEFFREY KEYS, 69, of South Charleston, passed away Dec. 1. He practiced in Milton for many years.

JIMMY J. ROBERTS, 73, of Huntington, whose funeral was Nov. 21. He was a brother of Linda (David) Chapman, and uncle of Marc (Angie) Chapman, and Chad (Jennifer) Chapman. 

JANET MAE WALLACE, 84, of Culloden, who passed away Dec. 2. She was the former owner of the Village Inn in Milton.

MISSION PROJECTS

In November, we asked for funds for the Christmas Basket project, and we collected $1,850. With this offering, and a balance left from last year, we were able to complete 84 baskets, which volunteers delivered on Dec. 2 to the widowed, those over 80 years of age, ill and in need. We are sorry if we missed anyone.

Thank you to all who gave funds, brought Christmas cakes and candies, all who helped assemble the baskets, and most especially volunteered to make the deliveries all over this community and a little beyond!

In December, we are seeking donations for Lily’s Place, which was founded in 2014 as the first Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Center in the United States. Infants born in Huntington area hospitals to mothers who have used drugs during their pregnancies, and who have no other serious health issues, are brought to Lily’s Place, where they are given the tender care they need (at much less cost than staying in the neonatal unit at the hospital) until they are weaned off the substances in their systems. If you would like to contribute, please write LP on the memo line of your check. And did you know that you can volunteer to rock the babies at Lily’s Place? The babies need low lighting, no loud noises, and a gentle touch. Learn more at lilysplace.org.

WOWS MEET

Our WOW group was invited to Lighthouse Baptist Church for a brunch with their group recently. There were nine of our group and close to fifteen of their group in attendance. When we walked in, our escort Victor Close, who was dressed up in a black suit, escorted us to our tables. The church ladies served us a plate full of delicious food and desserts. We even had some to bring home.

Connie Chapman then spoke to the group about handling grief. She also gave us a lot of printed information about grief. Connie did a very good job. We then were blessed by Mr. Close singing several songs for us.

Each of us had a wonderful time. We hope to do this again. If you are a widow, widower or single person, you are welcome to join us.

                                        ~~Alliene Caldwell 

Notice: In search of an adult version of Elf on the Shelf that moves around at night cleaning the house and doing laundry.

God’s Gift

God’s love was fulfilled

In His only son’s birth,

When He sent the Christ child 

To redeem all the earth!

Let all mankind rejoice

‘Neath the Heavens above,

In this wonderful Gift

Of God’s mercy and love!

CALENDAR:

**Tues., Dec. 13, 20, 27, 10 am – Sew Blest, in the Family Center.

**Sat., Dec. 10, 9 am – In Stitches Christmas Brunch, in the Beaver Building.

**Sat., Dec. 10, 5 pm – Faithful Servants Christmas Party, in the Family Center.

**Sun., Dec. 11, 11 am – Sanctuary Choir Cantata, “Hope Has Hands.”

**Sun., Dec. 11, 7 pm – Children’s Ministry presents “Christmas in Black and White.”

**Fri., Dec. 16 – Sun., Dec. 18 – Trip to Charlotte, NC for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child to help pack boxes at the distribution center. See Jeanne Lunsford for more details.

**Sun., Dec. 18, 7 pm – Youth Ministries Christmas Program, “Giving Hope.”

**Mon., Dec. 19, 6 pm – Christmas Caroling. There will be a time of fellowship and refreshments in the Family Center after caroling.

**Wed., Dec. 21, 7 pm – Fireside Christmas Service, in the Sanctuary. Come and participate in this time of worship and remembrance of Christmases past.

**Mon., Dec. 26 – Beulah Ann celebrates 148 years!

**Fri., Dec. 30 – Pastor’s Greg’s Birthday!

**Sun., Jan. 1, 6 pm – ABWM, Family Center Dining Room.

**Sun., Jan. 1, 6 pm – ABMM, Caldwell Classroom.

**Mon., Jan. 2, 7 pm – Combined Board Meeting, Family Center.

**Tues., Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Thurs., Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26, 6 pm – In Stitches, in the Family Center.

**Sun., Jan. 8 – Newsletter Deadline.

**Fri., Jan. 13 – Newsletter work party.

**Sun., Jan. 15, 12:30 pm – 100th Birthday Party for Gene Caldwell. Dinner will be served. (He needs no presents; he says he has everything! But if you would like, in lieu of gifts, donations for the Huntington City Mission and the Knight’s Great Hall will be accepted.)

**Wed., Jan. 18, 7 pm – Quarterly Business Meeting.

Get your relatives speaking to one another again by sending them a Christmas card with a picture of your family in it with an extra child no one knows.

BAMBY NEWS – FACING HUNGER

On Sat November 19th, fourteen teens and adults volunteered at the Facing Hunger Food Bank in Huntington. For most of the group it was their first time volunteering but all agreed it was something that made a difference. 

This trip, we divided into groups with one group bagging fresh produce and the other bagging up boxed foods. Both the produce and the boxed items were going to be distributed on the following Monday to over 200 families in the area. Following completion of those bags, we jumped in and sorted cases of food by category to be distributed to local food pantries. In total, 80+ boxes of food were packed and over 400 bags.

If you are not familiar with the foodbank, they provide food to hundreds of individuals and families as well as organizations such the City Mission. Due to their ability to purchase in bulk, $1 can literally purchase enough food for nine individuals. They also supply food for hundreds of kids in the school food backpack program. 

The teens enjoy volunteering and making a difference in the community. We look forward to additional opportunities to serve in the future.

                                         ~~Mitzi Beckett

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

 We gathered in the Family Center on Dec. 3 for our annual Church Christmas Dinner, which was decorated so beautifully! Thank you, Naomi Dailey, Susan McComas, and all who helped. The Sunday School Classes provided ham and turkey, and everybody brought everything else. For the first time since covid, we had a big crowd who enjoyed the wonderful food and fellowship. 

 Austin McCoy provided our special music on the evening Dec. 4. He is a talented singer and great guitarist.

 You don’t really want to hear of a shotgun in or near a church, but we now have some new “shotgun” mikes that are working great. They make it possible for folks watching services on Facebook to hear testimonies, prayers, and prayer requests coming from the congregation, without our having to run a handheld mike to them. Thanks, Erin Carter for getting these.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

Children and their leaders are really busy this month. On December 18th the Jesus Kids will visit Paramount Nursing home and will do part of their Christmas play there. They love the kids and the kids love them.

The Christmas play at church will be Sunday December 11th at 7:00 pm. The play director Lisa Vititoe is adding to this newsletter about how this Christmas play and soundtrack was acquired: God was in this from 3 months of practice to now. Praise the Lord. Every year our Children’s Ministry team strives to find a wonderful Christmas Play to go with a theme for our Children to perform and enjoy. Many times, these Christmas plays are from previous years, or from conferences where they have been given a variety of sample materials. This year’s “Christmas in Black and White Musical” by Jeff Slaughter is one of those programs. We were blessed to be able have the program and the original musical CD, however we hit a snag when it came to ordering more products from Brentwood Benson Publishing. Brentwood Benson Publishing has closed their business and 

their products are no longer available. Thankfully, we were able to find several churches had posted their performances on YouTube. Updating our technology earlier this year in the Children’s Department allowed us to review and use their performances to help direct the children. Unfortunately, we still needed the Split Track CD with only the instrumentals, and we were unable to find one. One evening after church Boo mentioned that maybe we could contact the Compass Bible Church to see if they could possibly help us. In the meantime, Pastor Greg, Duane Adkins, and Debbie Sansom all diligently tried to help us find the split track we needed but they hit the same road blocks. We were able to contact Compass Bible Church Tustin of Santa Ana, CA and speak with their Senior Pastor Mike Elliott who put us in contact with their Pastor Nate Mason who was over their Children’s Department. Pastor Nate was in awe that we were calling, clear across the country, for their help from a post on YouTube that was 3 years old. He was excited to try to help us and searched their church and their sister campuses for the track. Road blocks were in his path too, but as we prayed here in West Virginia, his sound technology team found the digital copy. They emailed it to us so that we could perform our play this year with the tracks needed. We are blessed to be a member of God’s Church where we are all connected and striving to spreads God’s message to the masses across the world. We pray that our little play touches your life as it has touched ours through the answered prayers and utmost kindness from Pastor Nate Mason of Compass Bible Church and the beautiful Christmas Story from Luke 2:1-20.          

    ~~Children’s Ministry Team 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

Baby Nursery workers for Sunday mornings and for revival. See Boo Meadows.

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.)

We all know mirrors don’t lie…I’m just glad they don’t laugh.

Laundry:

Washing – 30 minutes

Drying – 60 minutes

Putting away – 7-10 business days

Keeping Christ in Christmas 

If shepherd had not come to worship,

When the tidings came to them;

If there had never been a Christmas star,

Or a Babe of Bethlehem;

There would be no Christmas story,

And there would be no “Peace on Earth,”

For a miracle of love occurred

At the time of Jesus’ birth!

So, let’s keep Christ in Christmas,

In spite of what some say,

For without our blessed Savior

There would be no Christmas Day!

         (Author unknown)

ABUNDANT LIVING in the NEW YEAR

Think deeply, Speak gently, 

Laugh often, Work hard, 

Give freely, Pay promptly, 

Pray earnestly, Be kind.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Frances Adams; C. J. Adkins; Ed & Mary Adkins; Gary Adkins; Junior Adkins; Leonard & Kathy Adkins; Sara Adkins; Steve Adkins; Connie Akers; Kenny Alford; Mitzi Arnold; Dale Barker; Robert Barker; Daniel Beaver; Nila Jean Beckett; Brad Benedict; Brayden Benedict; David & Sue Benedict; Deloris Bias; Barbara Blake; Ronnie Bledsoe; Joe & Edna Booten; Kathy Bragg; Danny Brotherton; Yvonne Brooks; Brenda Brumfield; Larry Brumfield; Leonard & Bonnie Burks; Libby Burks; Alfred & Gladys Burns; Bruce Bryant; Carol Caldwell; Keeley Carter; Carsen Casey; Sheila Nowlin Castle; Addie Chapman; Connie Chapman; Dave & Linda Chapman; Dorothy Chapman; Landy Chapman; Marc & Angie Chapman; Richard & Peggy Chapman; Ricky Chapman; Rosemary Chapman; Sandra Chapman; Ella Childers; Emmaline Childers; Lewis Henry Childers; Betty Clagg; Ricky Clark; Jean Cochran; Joe Colliflower; David & Susie Collins; George Cooper; Keith Cooper; Mary Cooper; Beverly Dailey Copley; Justin Curtis; Jack Dailey; Naomi Dailey; Norma Dailey; Donna Davis; Luana Davis; Jennifer Nowlin Davis; Devona Dick; Mike & Melissa Diehl; Greg Elkins; Earl Fetty; Charley Flowers; Jonathan Foster; Ron & Gina Flora; Walt & Shirley Frye; Martha George; Darren Gibson; Tim Gibson; Troy and Karen Gibson; Trish Graziano; Bernadine Hampton; Beverly Harshbarger; Jennings & Janie Hatfield; Tasha Haverly; Rosie Hensley; David & Terra Hill; Eloise Hinkle; Troy & Ann Holstein; Shelia Holley; Virginia Holley; John Horn; Jim & Rosa Huffman; Pam Hughes; Patty Jarvis; Phillip Jeffrey; Cleo “Punkin” Johnson; Grover & Lorene Jordan; Derek Justice; Ruby Jean King; Shane Kingery; Ricky Kingery; Dwight Kirby; Rose Kuhn; Bonnie Lewis; Sam Litteral; Chancy Love; Rhonda Lucas; Roger Lykins; Gary & Mary Manning; Tammy Manning; Naomi Henry Massie; Cledith Meadows; Ryan Meadows; Roger McCallister; Kenzie McComas; Wiley McGinnis; Joy Miller; Billie Morris; Wanda Kirby Morrison; Carolyn Murphy; Peggy Neal; Jeff & Becky Nowlin; Nina Nowlin; Jim & Marcella O’Lynn; Fred Painter; Andy Payton; Janelle Payton; Linda Payton; Brett Pearson; Mollie Perry; Wanda Porter; Judy Priestly; Frank & Brenda Puryear; Darrell Rayburn; Betty Reynolds; Tim & Brenda Rider; Doris Rider; Laura Rider; Tom Riley, Jr.; John Rimmer; Mary Jane Rimmer; Curtis & Carolyn Roberts; Joanne Rolfe; Cheryl Rose; Gabe Sansom; Coleen Scarberry; Dalvin Scarberry; Peggy Scarberry; Warren Scarberry; Carolyn Shaver; Crystal Shephard; Johnny Shepherd; Barry Smith; Becky Smith; Tyler Smith; William Smith; Roger Sowards; Phyliss Spurlock; Jane Steele; Donnie Stevens; Jean Stevens; Diane Swann; Avery Sweat; Bryan Tatum; Rose Thacker; Kevin Varney; Leoma Shaw Venoy; Butch & Brenda Vititoe; Rosemary Walker; Amy Ward; Coleen Waters; Eva Watson; Gary Waugh; Gay Waugh; Sonny & BeeBee Waugh; Bob Wellman; George Winters; Willow Womack; Mike Woodard; Carol Woody; Sybille “Billie” Yates; Don Young; Janette Young; Ruby Young; others in our church and community who have ongoing needs.

THE LITTLE DONKEY

The little donkey seemed so tired-

He carried such a load-

But Joseph gently urged him on

Along the dark and dusty road

And when they reached the roadside inn,

The little donkey heaved a sigh;

For now he knew he’d have a rest

Inside the stable closely by.

He didn’t question when he saw

That Joseph led his Mary there;

He only knew that he must rest

Against the cool and nighttime air.

He slept; but suddenly awoke

To angel music everywhere;

He saw the three men on their knees

Beside the Baby’s manger bed.

“Great joy to all the world He brings,

Because He is our Christ,” they said.

The little donkey knelt in awe.

“I didn’t know,” he said to them.

Then pride and wonder filled his voice,

“I brought the Christ to Bethlehem!”

IN LIEU OF CARDS

I am not sending cards this year;

Instead, I’ll give to orphans cheer.

With postage up and finance down,

I cannot greet the whole town.

Of course, I must remember well

His folks, and mine, and Auntie Nell.

And Susie’s teachers, don’t forget,

Or Billie’s either. Oh, you bet!

I have to send one to Bob’s boss,

Or we might have a sudden loss.

Our friends, the Jones, I can’t ignore,

Nor yet the Smiths: they sent before.

No, season’s greetings I’ll not send;

Those hours and hours I will not spend.

Then tell me, please, why I sit here

Addressing cards to far and near.

                   (Author unknown)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!