FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

2 Chronicles 7:14 – If my people, which are called by my name, will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Indeed, a modern-day revival can only occur with the Holy Spirit’s divine work in the life of born-again Christians. Charles Finney and other 19th-century Evangelists believed they could cultivate revival through a man-made process. Stop trying to force revival. If we follow God’s Revival Recipe, we’ll be ready to receive it when the Holy Spirit moves. So, what is it? It’s a four-step process to prepare individuals to receive God’s blessings: humble yourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn from your wicked ways.

Humility is a trait Christians must cultivate. The world notices when believers are lifted up with selfish pride, and it’s a massive turnoff to them. The only thing Christians can brag about is Jesus. Let us decrease and let Him increase. Prayer is essential to spiritual revival and daily life. Pray for forgiveness and cleansing. Pray for personal revival. Prayer is your direct line to the throne of grace, and we should go boldly!

Seeking God’s face is about knowing Him intimately. That’s why young lovers look deep into each other’s eyes. Do you want to know God like that? Then seek His face. Open your heart and your Bible and get to know Him. Turn from wickedness. Sinning against a Holy and Righteous God is wickedness. And we’re all sinners. Everyone needs to turn from their sins. Since the death of Christ, our sins were judged on Him at Calvary, but when we sin after salvation, we need to repent and seek forgiveness. He cleanses and advocates on our behalf. Revival is about restoration. Prepare yourself to be revived, and encourage others to come and hear the Word of God and be saved!                                                                                                                                           ~~ Pastor Greg

MARCH SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

March 3                  158

March 10                134             

March 17                129

March 24                126

March 31                159 (Easter)

               5 (706) 141 average

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

 FIND US ON MEDIA, OR CONTACT US

Web site: www.beulahann1874.org (Check the church calendar, find the latest bulletin, newsletter, service times, and more.

Facebook: Beulah Ann Baptist Church (Services live streamed.)

You Tube: Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church (available a few minutes after the close of service.)

Radio: WEMM FM, 107.9, Mondays at 7:45 am – a 15-minute program, “Child-like Faith.”

E-mail: BeulahAnnMBC@gmail.com. Also, prayer requests can be sent to babcprayer@aol.com and will be shared with a large group of prayer warriors.

Telephone: 304-743-5854.

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

          April: Micah

          May: Hebrews

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.

 OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

Pat Grass, April 30, 83 yrs.

Ed Watson, May 10, 92 yrs.        

Leoma Shaw Venoy, May 10, 82 yrs.                                  

OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

Richard & Peggy Chapman, Apr. 28, 73 yrs. Jerry & Clara Zerkle, May 2, 58 yrs.                    

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Anonymous thru church treasury     $25.00

Thank you for your generous support.

MISSION PROJECTS 

In March, the Mission Project is the Huntington City Mission, which feeds and houses people in need in the Huntington area in a 50-mile radius, and shares the love of Christ. We sent them $477 for this month.

Our Mission Project for April is our own Camp Ona, where churches and groups from the Guyandotte Baptist Association and other have fellowships and camping. To contribute, please write Camp Ona on the memo line of your check.

In March, the ABWM collected very clean used or new stuffed animals. You really came through on this project! We got 75 very cute adorable huggable critters! In April, the ABWM members also made homemade cookies and filled three large trays. On April 8^th, we delivered one cookie tray and two large bags of toys each to the Ona Volunteer Fire Department, the Sheriff’s Field Office in Ona, and the Ona EMS Station, to give to children caught in traumatic situations, such as auto accidents, fires, and domestic violence. These were all gladly received!

CONGRATULATIONS to Seth & Brooke Neal, on the March 22 birth of son, Carson Lee.

THANK YOU

Dear Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist,

          Thank you so much for your generous gift to A New Beginning Pregnancy Resource Center. Your kind and generous hearts mean so much to us and enable us to serve our local community. We are excited to see where God leads in 2024.

                                Kara Angus, Director

May the Lord reward you for your kindness. Ruth 1:18

                    Frank and Teresa Miller

                    WV Conference Center at

                    Parchment Valley

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

JIMMY LEE CLAGG, 76, of Milton, who passed away on Mar. 22. His funeral service was private. He was an uncle of Christy Holley, and cousin of Brian Bellomy.

ANNIE PATRICIA COLEGROVE, 90, of Ona, whose funeral was Mar. 21. She was the widow of Jack Colegrove, and is survived by two sons, James Colegrove (Denise) and Christopher Colegrove (Toni). She was a life-long member of Barker Ridge Baptist Church, and was a friend to many in our church.

BOBBY LEE GIBSON, 11, of Stuart, FL, whose celebration of life was April 11. He was a son of Brent David and Lisa Gibson, grandson of Rev. Brent (Ellen) Gibson (former pastor at Mud River Baptist Church) and Becky Childers’ grand-nephew.

NEW MEMBERS

Finn Shafer, age 7, son of Caleb and Courtney Shafer, and Bradley Neal, age 6, were baptized on April 7. Bradley is the son of Seth and Brooke Neal.

On Sunday, March 24, Piper Nunn, age 13, daughter of Brittany Hart, was saved, and she was baptized on April 14. Alex Smith, nephew of Tyler Smith, was also baptized on that day, having been saved in last spring’s revival.

SPRING SEWING RETREAT

Saturday, April 13th, the quilting groups of BAMBC invited Faith FWB church to come and join us to make quilts for Branches Women’s Domestic Violence Shelter in Huntington. There were 21 in attendance. We provided breakfast and lunch and they provided dessert for our lunch. We had door prizes and games and we even had time to sew approximately 250 blocks! We gave 90 blocks to Faith church for three quilts. They plan to donate these to Branches also when completed. We will be preparing the remainder of the blocks which will make four or five quilts.

 We are also in the process of finishing six Quilts of Valor for 2024.                    ~~Shirley Frye

Don’t let your age get you down. It’s too hard to get back up again.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

March 30^th was our “Eggciting Easter Egg Hunt” at our church. we had a family lunch, sang songs, did sand-art crafts, and played games. Then began one of the biggest collection of eggs. Special thanks to Dale & Debbie Napier for the use of their front yard for the 1^st–6^th graders. Then the 2-year-olds and kindergarteners hunted in front of the church’s garage. Special prize eggs were found too. The day was beautiful! Then Easter Sunday was a great turnout of kids as we worshiped the true meaning of Easter.

It’s Vacation Bible School planning time. The first Sunday of April we had our first meeting. Several wonderful volunteers were there and signed up for different ways to serve. We have great leaders for each event and we are so thankful for them. We are praying for more volunteers to sign up. Next meeting will be May 19^th right after morning church. Vacation Bible School is June 2^nd–6^th.

Jesus Kids have been working on their spring play “The Epic Easter Trivia Show.” They showed their talent on Sunday, April 14^th at Paramount Senior Living. People come from all over to see them even Ohio. On April 21^st at 7 pm they will perform for our church. They know the true meaning of Easter. Also, our awards will be that night. Kids are learning their Bible verses.

Special praise report for Bradley Neal and Finn Shafer who were saved and baptized!!

If you can help us in any way, see any of the Children’s Ministry Team and thank you.

                       ~~Childrens Ministry Team

MISSION TO JAPAN

Young Global Servant Sarah McCloy writes that she has now been in Japan for one year! Easter has come and the cherry blossoms have bloomed, and God’s blessings abound. She has completed a year of language school, and is ready to start her second year. She says learning Japanese has been one of the most difficult and rewarding tasks of her life. She has made many friends in local churches, school, and neighborhood. She will soon be ministering at two local churches, Shokei Baptist and Kashimadai Church. She asks for our prayers for all her endeavors.

CALENDAR

**Mon., April 22, 5:30 pm – Ladies Bible Study, Family Center. We are studying 3:16, Numbers of Hope by Max Lucado. This is the 4^th week of the 5-week study. All ladies welcome, even if you had not been to all the sessions. See Connie Chapman for more information.

**Tues., April 23, 30, 10 am – Sew Blest, 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Fri., April 26 – Sun., April 28 – Spring Camp–a–Rama at Beech Fork State Park. A dinner will be held on Sat., April 27. Hamburgers and hotdogs will be provided. Please bring a covered side-dish or dessert if you plan to attend. (This dinner is open to all who wish to attend, not just the campers.) See Erin Carter for more details.

**Fri., April 27 – Sat., April 28 – AB Men’s Work Party at Camp Cowen.

**Sun., April 28 – Fri., May 3, 7 pm – Spring Revival with Paul Michael Booth. A Nursery will be provided every night for infants

to 3-year-olds. Children’s Church for all ages will be Sunday and Wednesday night only. Wednesday night fellowship dinner at 5:30 pm – Mexican!

**Sat., May 4, 9am – Work Party at Camp Ona. Volunteers needed!

**Sun., May 5, 6 pm – ABWM meeting in the Family Center, ABMM meeting in the Caldwell Classroom.

**Mon. May 6 – Board of Deacons Meeting.

**Mon., May 6, 5:30 pm – Ladies Bible Study, Family Center. We are studying 3:16, Numbers of Hope by Max Lucado. This is the fifth and final week of this study. All ladies welcome, even if you had not been to all the sessions. See Connie Chapman for more information.

**Mon.-Wed., May 6-8 – Spring Golden’eers Conference,Parchment Valley Conference Center.

**Tues., May 7, 14, 21, 28 – Sew Blest at 10 am, and In Stitches at 6 pm – Family Center.

**Sat., May 11, 6 pm – Community Dinner, Family Center. AB Men will cook the meal, ladies please bring desserts.

**Sun., May 12 – Mon., May 13 – Summer Kick-Off/Youth Work Party, Camp Cowen.

**Mon., May 13, 7 pm – Board of Christian Education meeting, Family Center.

**Sun., May 19 – Baccalaureate Service.

**Sun., May 19 – 2^nd VBS Planning Meeting.

**Sun., June 2 – Thursday, June 6 – Vacation Bible School. This year’s theme is “Twists & Turns.”

 SESQUICENTENNIAL PLANNING

On December 26, 2024, Beulah Ann will be 150 years old! The Anniversary Committee has been making plans and we want to give a heads up, especially to those of you have moved away, because we would love to have you visit “home” and worship with us on any or all of these special events. We will have many events starting in June when we are 149½! We will list here the ones that have been firmed up.

è Sat., June 22, at 4:00 pm – “Dinner on the Ground” at the picnic shelter. Hot dogs, hamburgers, etc., and homemade ice cream! A truck trailer stage will be set up, and you can bring a lawn chair if you like. Four young preachers who heard their call while worshiping under Pastor Paul Meadows will all speak: Jason Salmons, Tim Messinger, Jeff Fetty, and Tracy Mills.

è Sun., Aug. 11, 7 pm – Simon Morrison, pastor of Mud River Baptist Church and who was raised in this church, will speak. Mud River is our “Mother Church.” Their congregation will also be worshipping with us, and we will have a fellowship reception after service.

è Sun., Sept. 15 – Homecoming! We are going back to old-fashioned homecoming. Pastor Greg will speak at 11 am, then we will dismiss for dinner, but not in a hurry. So that no one will have to leave service early to prepare the tables, we will have about a 20- minute period to fellowship, and look at the historical displays if you would like. Then we will return to the sanctuary around 1:30, where Calvin Ray Evans will speak around 2 pm. Also, we will have a visiting quartet.

è Sun., Dec. 29, 12:00 – Sesquicentennial Dinner! Historical quilts will be on display,and we will open the Time Capsule that was created in 1999 at our 125^th Anniversary.

        The Adult Fellowship Sunday School Class has graciously allowed us to use their classroom for our historical displays. This room will be ready sometime in June, which you can look anytime. We are also hoping to have a new Church Directory completed by December, and an update to the church history that was written by Mildred Caldwell up through 1999.

CALDWELL BROTHERS VETERANS MEMORIAL BRIDGE 

On Sunday afternoon, April 7, the Caldwell family invited everyone to a reception to commemorate the dedication of a bridge in honor of the four Caldwell brothers who served in the armed forces. James and Theo Caldwell had a farm just a mile or so above the present church. They had six sons and four daughters. James died young, and Theo was left with the challenge of raising them. When WW II broke out, three of her sons answered the call. Two had serious medical issues, and one was too young. 

The late Clyde “Ted” Caldwell served in the US Army in Germany and was captured and spent seven months in a Prisoner of War Camp before being freed by the Allies. His mother was notified he was missing in action and did not know of his imprisonment at first. He was treated very badly. He received a Purple Heart and several other medals. He was the father of the late Raymond and the late Carol Caldwell, and Ruth and Ted (Karen) Caldwell.

The late Andrew “Carl” Caldwell served in the US Army in Europe as a sniper under General Patton. He was the father of Linda Hayes, and foster father of the late Patty Cremeans Rose.

Lewis Eugene “Gene” Caldwell served in the US Navy in the Pacific arena as a radioman. He is now 101 years old and still knows Morse Code and many other signaling forms. He is interesting to talk to if you want to spend a visit with him. He is the father of the late Ann Caldwell, Mary (Michael) Burdick, Joyce (Jim) Ross, and Susan (Tom) McComas.

After the war, the youngest son, the late John Caldwell, served in the US Army in occupied Germany. The war was over, but this was still a dangerous job. He was the father of the late JB Caldwell and Amy (Bil) Neal.

At the reception, the Junior ROTC Color Guard of Cabell Midland High School presented the colors, which was very impressive. Amy Neal led in the Pledge of Allegiance, and we all sang the Star-Spangled Banner. Then WV Delegate Daniel Linville, who was the sponsor of the bill to name the bridge, presented the official proclamation, and a smaller version of the sign to Gene Caldwell. At the same time, workers on Interstate 64 unveiled the actual large signs (east and west) on the bridge that crosses over Howell’s Mill Road.

Thank you to all who came to help celebrate this wonderful occasion. (If you would like to see video of the reception, check the James and Theo McCormick Caldwell Family Facebook page, or Susan Caldwell McComas’ Facebook page, or the page of just about any Caldwell relative you can think of!)

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS 

J  Easter music was thrilling. Choir Director Duane Adkins had carefully chosen songs for every service in the month of March, leading up to Easter. On that day, the Sanctuary Choir sang “Beyond the Cross” and “Behold How He Loves” (which was accompanied by a touching video created by Susan McComas), among other beautiful meaningful songs. The children also sang, “Lord I Lift Your Name on High,” and a quartet of Jeanne Lunsford, Judy Lawson, Tom McComas, and Duane Adkins sang, “It is Finished,” a very powerful song. Reece and Carrie Hunt also sang wonderful solos.

J The Osburn Family from Wayne brought our special music Sunday morning April 14. Kenneth Osburn and his two daughters and a friend brought music that blessed everyone, bluegrass style.

J Jerry Johnson was our song leader on Sunday evening, April 14, and he said he had been missing something from our services since the Covid pandemic. He called for an old-fashioned handshake! Of course, most of us have returned to shaking hands in greeting, but the idea of singing a song and letting everybody who wanted to shake hands with everybody else had kind of died. But it was a joy seeing everyone moving around, and to hear the conversations and even laughter. We couldn’t hardly quit. We are so blessed.

Deacon Dennis Childers recently shared this memory: When he was young, one fall he heard it announced that the church would be giving out revival fliers. He wondered what kind of flowers could be planted so late!

YOUTH MINISTRIES

This year, as in the past, several area churches rented the Marshall Rec Center for our annual Rec the Weekend. This year the speaker was Jacob Marshall, and our 20 teens joined around 200 others for a night of fun and fellowship. The teens had many opportunities for fun such as swimming, basketball, volleyball, racquet ball and climbing the rock wall. Everyone had a great time.

What a glorious Sonrise service led by our youth early Easter Sunday morning! After many weeks of practicing parts and setting scenes, BABMY blessed the church with a beautiful service, telling the story of the resurrection through the eyes of Jesus’ followers: Mary Magdelene, Peter, John the Beloved and Thomas. Reece and Carrie Hunt did a beautiful job with their solos!! Thank you to all attended, I believe the count was 80.                 ~~Mitzi Beckett

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

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK…

There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2

Has God answered a prayer for you? What was your response? Did you thank him? Did you give him a casual head nod or tip your cap? Or did you expect Him to answer and therefore feel no need to give thanks? Hannah prayed for a child, and the baby Samuel was the Lord’s answer. In gratitude, she poured out her heart in thanksgiving and praise, magnifying the Lord. We should do that when the Lord answers our prayers, whether we asked for a child or a discount on used tires. We should glorify Him! We can’t praise Him enough in word or deed.

It’s time Christians come down from our holy high horse and get back on shouting ground with the Lord! He’s worthy to be praised! If you’ve ever had a prayer answered, you should praise Him! I’m not talking about saying, “Thanks, Big G!” That’s bordering on blasphemy! He is not “Big G” or “The Man Upstairs.” He is God! The Holy, Righteous, Omniscient Creator! Recognize His Majesty! Be grateful and gracious in your praise. Be open and obvious to whom you give the glory!

If your next answered prayer depended on the praise and glory you gave the Lord for your last answered prayer, what blessing would you receive, full, partial, or none at all? I suggest we follow Hannah’s example, who lifted her voice and praised God with all she had for all she received. She knew there was only One God, and He was holy. He is the Rock on which the faithful can stand and rely. He never fails or falters. Open your heart, humble yourself, and lift your voice in praise to the one from whom all blessings flow! Give Him the glory he deserves every day!            ~~ Pastor Greg

FEB. SUNDAY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

February 4              135

February 11            123               

February 18            144

February 25            141

                           4 (543) 136 average

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

FIND US ON MEDIA, OR CONTACT USWeb site: www.beulahann1874.org (Check the church calendar, find the latest bulletin, newsletter, service times, and more.

Facebook: Beulah Ann Baptist Church (Services live streamed.)

You Tube: Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church (available a few minutes after the close of service.)

Radio: WEMM FM, 107.9, Mondays at 7:45 am – a 15-minute program, “Child-like Faith.”

E-mail: BeulahAnnMBC@gmail.com. Also, prayer requests can be sent to babcprayer@aol.com and will be shared with a large group of prayer warriors.

Telephone: 304-743-5854.

BIBLE READING PROGRAMS

WVBC ABWM 5-year Bible Reading Plan:

          March: Galatians

          April: Micah

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. 

 OVER 80 BIRTHDAYS

Jimmy Floyd, Feb. 29, 20 yrs. (really 80) yrs.

Naomi Dailey, Mar. 25, 84 yrs.

Jean Casey, April 7, 92 yrs.

 OVER 50 ANNIVERSARIES

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

Jerry & Barbara Johnson, April 1, 58 yrs.

Jennings & Jane Hatfield, April 2, 55 yrs.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEWSLETTER FUND

Willing Workers SS Class             $20.00

Nina Nowlin                                $15.00

Nina writes, “In loving memory of Mommy, the late Maye Nowlin, who moved to Heaven on Mar. 21, 2010. ‘that whosoever believeth in him shall have eternal life.’ John 3:16 KJV. We miss you.”

Thank you for your generous support.

MISSION PROJECTS

The Mission Project for February was New Beginnings Crisis Pregnancy Center, a non-profit organization in Huntington, WV offering compassionate peer counseling and assistance to women, teens, and parents during a planned or unplanned pregnancy. We contributed $160 to this worth cause.

In March, the Mission Project is the Huntington City Mission, which feeds and houses people in need in the Huntington area in a 50-mile radius, and shares the love of Christ. To give, please write HCM on your check memo. Thank you.

In February, the ABWM Community Outreach Project was collecting towels (bath, hand, or wash cloth) for Harmony House in Huntington, where small apartments and many services are provided to help people facing homeless get a good start. We didn’t count them, but you gave a very large bag of towels, much appreciated.

In March, the ABWM is collecting very clean used or new stuffed animals. These will be divided among the Ona Volunteer Fire Department, the Sheriff’s Field Office in Ona, and the Ona Ambulance Station, to give to children caught in traumatic situations, such as auto accidents, fires, and domestic violence. To give, place your contribution in the basket in the foyer.  

NOTICE: If you need a tax statement of your church giving in 2023, please contact Financial Secretary Brenda Lawson, or call the church at 304-743-5854, and we will give her the message.

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF:

HERBERT KENTON ALFORD, 86, of Ona, whose funeral was Feb. 29. He was a long-time science teacher in the Cabell County Schools, and friend to many in the church.

TAMMY BLACK, 61, of Milton, whose funeral service was Mar. 12. She was in food service in Cabell County Schools, and a friend to several in the church. 

RODNEY GLEN CARTER, 72, of South Point, OH, who passed away on Feb. 29. He was an uncle of Karen (Kevin) Elkins.

GREGORY DALE HATFIELD, 66, of Milton, whose funeral was Mar. 3. He was the brother of Valerie Leggett.

JOYCE JIMISON, 91, of Culloden, whose funeral was Mar. 9. She was a friend of Alliene Caldwell and several others in the church. She was a faithful member of Union Baptist Church.

GROVER JORDAN, 89, of Milton, whose graveside service was Feb. 21. He is survived by his wife Lorene, a daughter, two sons, and grand and great-grandchildren. He and Lorene attended here faithfully until their health declined.

RAMOLEE KNIGHT, 93, of Scott Depot, whose funeral was Feb. 18. She was the widow of George “Buck” Knight. 

BOBBY JOE MORRISON, 80, of Milton, whose graveside service was Mar. 1. He was the husband of Wandy Kirby Morrison, and brother-in-law of Greg Kirby. 

WILMA SMITH, 87, of Barboursville, passed away Mar. 13. She was the widow of Elsworth “Boogie” Smith, mother of Allen, Randall and David Smith, and grand-mother of Heather Glover and Trena Smith. Arrangements were incomplete as of this writing. 

JAMES KENT WAUGH, 78, of Ravenswood, passed away Feb. 15. He was a cousin of Joyce Ryder, Sharon Hayes, Sonny Waugh, and Becky Childers.

ABMM PRAYER BREAKFAST

You can probably still smell the bacon at Camp Ona from the Feb. 24 Men’s Prayer Breakfast. The event was hosted by Fifth Avenue Baptist Church, and our ABWM cooked the breakfast.

Sixty-five men from eleven churches participated. The special speaker was Rob Ely. The men ate 15 pounds of bacon! Plus, sausage, eggs, breakfast casseroles, biscuits, gravy, fried potatoes, fried apples, apple butter, jelly, OJ, coffee, and milk! No one went home hungry for sure.

NEW MEMBERS

On Sunday, Feb. 25, Pastor Greg baptized Avery Black, seven-yr. old daughter of Chris and Christy Black, and Julie and Ronnie Clagg, husband and wife. Ronnie is the brother of Chris (Erin) Carter. Welcome!

THANK YOU

Thanks so much for helping celebrate Mrs. Rosanna’s 90^th birthday! She was so surprised. Again, Thank you!         The Neals

Jimmie & Loretta (Chunky) Floyd sent a nice note thanking everyone for all the calls and cards for Jimmie’s 20^th Birthday, when he actually turned 80. Leap Day Baby!

Thank you so much for your generous donation to our Knights Great Hall. We appreciate your continued support to help our community. Again, thank you!

                    Tracy Urian, CMHS Counselor

 EASTER BUNNY???

Have you ever wondered how a bunny distributing eggs became associated with Easter? Recently came across this little story in, of all things, a puzzle book, as a Cryptogram:

“Most people think of the rabbit as a symbol of Easter, but the original Easter Bunny was actually a hare. Hares and rabbits are often confused with each other because they look similar, but hares are usually larger, have longer ears, and are born fully developed.

According to a German legend, Eostre, the goddess of spring, made the hare from a bird. The hare was so grateful that it laid eggs in honor of the bird during the Easter celebration.”

So, here is an explanation that makes no sense. Aren’t we blessed to know the real Easter story?

Every minute you are angry, you lose sixty seconds of happiness.

CHILI/SOUP COOKOFF 

Wonderful aromas were in the air on Sunday, Feb. 18, the day of our Chili/Soup Cookoff to raise funds for Cabell Midland High School’s Knights Great Hall. New Principal Matt Adkins thanked us for all we do for the KGH, which he said serves and helps people on a daily basis. Teacher Kayla Holtzapfel was also in attendance. School Counselor, our own Jenna McComas, told how many families live paycheck to paycheck. Also, it is alarming how many teens have no place to live, “couch hopping” from place to place. Many do not have parents they can depend on, and are helped by grandparents and great-grandparents. The KGH can supply them with food supplies (easy foods to prepare) and toiletries. These are given to the student in non-descript back-packs, so confidentiality is preserved. They no longer keep a clothing closet, except for prom dresses. But with the funds that we (and others) supply, they can buy what is needed, such as coats or shoes.

About fourteen or so (forgot to count) pots of various soups and varieties of chili were offered. A panel of judges tasted each one, and the judges awarded first place to Jenna McComas! (No, it was not rigged, her chili was just that good. She used Duane Adkins’ recipe, which won last year.) Also, there was a glass jar in front of each pot for you to put money in for your vote. Brooke Chapman won the people’s choice award for her delicious chili. The winners were awarded Blenko Glass water pitchers, engraved. A grand total of $2,494 was raised for KGH!

REVIVAL SEASON

The Sanctuary Choir traveled to Sunrise Baptist Church (a two-minute drive!) on Mar. 4 to sing in revival. Pastor Mark Finley welcomed us warmly. The evangelist was Chuck Elkins, raised in the Howell’s Mill community, now pastor at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Hannan. He preached a powerful and challenging sermon from Matthew 6:16 on fasting. He said fasting is mentioned in the Bible 77 times, and baptism is mentioned 75 times, so it is very important to God. An added bonus was that Global Outreach missionary to Uganda (now home-based) Bobby Bowen was there. She said it was a great opportunity to visit with two churches at one time that both support her ministry. Also, she graduated with Chuck!

GUEST SPEAKER

Brian Morrison spoke to us on Feb. 25 about the Saints Prison Ministry. It was founded thirty-five years ago. A team of 14-15 men from the Huntington Area was formed in 2017, and they spend much of their summer visiting prisons in WV, Ohio, and Kentucky, and play softball with the prisoners. Brian said that when prisoners are invited to a religious service, about 20% will attend. But if they are invited to a ball game, about 80% will attend. He and his teammates share their testimony with the ball players, the people in the stands, those standing along the fences, and even the correctional officers.

They use the Gospel of John and provide handouts and “connection cards,” which collects the inmate’s ID info, and prayer requests. It gives them three choices: 1. Already saved, wish to rededicate. 2. Not ready, need more information. 3. I accept Christ today. They follow-up with cards and more information based on the response.

Brian is a long-time friend of Pastor Greg, having played ball with him and against him.

Brian and his team make day trips throughout the softball season. If you would like to learn more about this ministry, see saintsprisonministry.org.

Unfolding of the lilies,

The singing of the birds,

Tell of the joys of Easter

Better than we in words.

            ~~ Isabelle Carter Young

Lilies! Lilies! Easter calls,

Rise to meet the dawning

Of the blessed light that falls

Through the Easter morning.

          ~~Mary A Lathbury

 CALENDAR

**Mon., Mar. 18, 6 pm – Ladies Bible Study Fellowship series begins. We will be watching “Jesus,” a movie from Sight and Sound, and enjoying pizza. Everyone is welcome.

**Tues., Mar. 19, 26 – 10 am – Sew Blest, Family Center.

**Tues., Mar. 19, 26 – 6 pm – In Stitches, Family Center.

**Sat., Mar. 30, 11 am-1 pm – Children’s Ministries Easter Egg Hunt, Family Center.

**Sun., Mar. 31, 6:30 am – Easter “Son” rise Service, Family Center, presented by Youth Ministries, followed by a light breakfast.

**Mon., April 1, 5:30 pm – Ladies Bible Study, Family Center. We will be studying 3:16, Numbers of Hope by Max Lucado, a 5-week study. Let Connie Chapman know if you want a book ordered.

**Mon., April 1, 7 pm – Combined Board Meeting.

**Tues., April 2, 9, 16,23, 30, 10 am – Sew Blest, 6 pm – In Stitches, Fam. Center.

**Sat., April 6 – Adult Ministry trip to see Cincinnati Reds Game. There is a sign-up sheet on the foyer table. Game at 1 pm, one-day trip. See Jeanne Lunsford for more details

**Sun., April 7, 11 am – Ordinance of Communion, offering for Deacon’s Benevolence Fund

**Sun., April 7 – After morning service – 1^st VBS Planning Meeting, downstairs.

**Sun., April 7, 6 pm – ABWM Meeting, Family Center dining room, ABMM Meeting, Caldwell Classroom.

**Sat., April 13, 9 am – 3 pm -Quilting Retreat. Quilters from Faith Baptist Church in Lavalette will be joining us to make quilts for Branches Domestic Violence Shelter in Huntington. Everyone is welcome to join in, even if you are not a quilter.

**Wed., April 17, 7 pm – Quarterly Bus. Mt.

**Thurs., April 18, 6:30 pm – Guyandotte Baptist Association Special Meeting for election of officers and to form a constitutional update committee.

**Fri., April 26 – Sun., April 28 – Spring Camp–a–Rama at Beech Fork State Park.

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY NEWS

It’s March already! Jesus Kids sang at Paramount Senior Living the 2^nd Sunday and they did an outstanding job. Even our Bus Driver Uncle Tom McComas joined in with them singing. Anytime you want to get your Blesser blessed come and go with us. We will save you a seat on the bus! Special thank you to Connie Chapman who made spaghetti sauce for the kids for dinner. Yum Yum!

March 30^th 11 am – 1pm will be our “Egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt”. We always serve lunch so come hungry! Invite every child you know. Thank you to our church family for bringing in candy and eggs.

April 21^st at 7 pm will be the Jesus Kids Spring Play, “The Epic Easter Trivia Show”.  It will be good.

On Sunday, Feb. 24, the children were given their awards for February. Children were awarded points for attendance, learning their Bible verse, and for singing with Jesus Kids. The kids who got six points or more were rewarded with a bowling trip! Then Pastor Greg emceed the Bible Trivia contest for the whole church, and of course, the kids won! Kids are busy learning their Bible Verse for this month. We challenge you to learn it too – Mark 16:6 – “And He saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is Risen; He is not here: behold the place where they laid him.”     ~~Childrens Ministry Team

GOOD NEWS NUGGETS

J  Evan Arkell, our WVBC Area Minister, worshipped with us on Wednesday night, Feb. 28.

J Steve Morrison surprised us by playing guitar and singing a solo on March 14. We knew Steve was a gifted drummer, but many of us didn’t know he played guitar too. His rendition of “How Great is Our God” was uplifting. 

J Pastor’s wife Jeanne Lunsford is a wonderful singer and sings for us frequently. But she did an especially great job singing “Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone” on Mar. 14. It was a great day for music! 

J Movie Night was great on Friday night, March 8. About thirty-two turned out, toting their lawn chairs, to watch “Jesus Revolution” starring Kelsey Grammer. It was an adult who described the movie as “awesome!”

Ben Franklin may have discovered electricity, but it was the man who invented the meter who made the money.

UNFOLDINGWORD MARCH NEWSLETTER

Dear Beulah Ann Missionary Baptist Church,

Thank you for faithfully investing in the work of Church-Centric Bible Translation through unfoldingWord! 

Following an Open Bible Stories community check in Chad (Africa), the local Iman made an astounding comment, declaring, “If any Muslim says that Jesus is not the savior, he is not a real Muslim, and he should be stoned!” Etienne Madjibaye, our Chadian Bible translation partner, was there that day. He explained that, initially, teenagers were stationed outside, ready to move on the Imam’s signal and stone or kill the Bible translation team. Now, things are different. “I bless the name of the Lord for unfoldingWord,” says Etiennne, “because Open Bible Stories is inspired. Nothing has ever helped us reach Muslims like this tool.”

I praise God for the profound work that He is doing among Muslims and other unreached people groups as you help equip the church in Every People Group to translate the Bible into Every Language.

David Reeves, President

(We support Russ and Jane Perry from unfoldingWord.)

The hour we lost this weekend was the one where I was going to go to the gym.

Middle age is when it takes longer to rest than to get tired.