2009 Messengers

2009 Messengers

First Baptist ChurchHuntsville, Alabama

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts David Hull, Pastor

The theme Scripture passage for our Bicentennial Celebration is Hebrews 12:1-2. Do you remember those powerful words? Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set

before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. (NRSV)

Throughout our anniversary celebration we will let these words guide our learning and our worship. Let me share the way I hope to use a phrase from this passage to begin our studies together on Sunday and Wednesday nights. What does it mean to be “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses?”

Sunday nights – Foundations – 5:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall (Begins January 11)

In a year that we reflect on the beginning of the First Baptist Church, we would do well to learn about the beginning of “The Church.” On Sunday nights we will engage in a study of the Book of Acts that I am calling “The Footprints Begin.” From now through March we will make our way through the Acts of the Apostles in a teaching format that will be very similar to the way that I approached Revelation last Winter/Spring. I will teach through the book by highlighting major themes. A time for question and answers will follow. Our fall of studying and discussing the life of Peter will roll right into this study of Acts, since Peter will be a central character in the great story of the beginning of the early church. The “great cloud of witnesses” who surround us today are those pioneer saints who began the footprints of the church following the resurrection of Jesus. Join us on Sunday nights for Foundations as we learn how these footprints began.

Wednesday nights – Prayer Meeting – 5:45 in the Fellowship Hall (Begins January 7)

The “great cloud of witnesses” includes people who have lived since the days that are recorded in the Scriptures. We have much to learn from the saints who have gone before us throughout Christian history. Their faith, devotion, and commitment teach us about following Christ. On Wednesday nights I will teach a series called “Surrounded by a Cloud.” Each week we will learn from one who has left indelible footprints of faith that continue to influence us today. Will you join me on this journey? I am excited about what we might learn together that will enrich our spiritual lives and strengthen the ministry and mission of our church.

Sunday, January 11, 2009 Sermon: “A Little While”

John 16:16-22 First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Music from A2O

Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.

Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a. m. Music from the Sanctuary Choir and FBC Orchestra

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall FOUNDATIONS

“The Footprints Begin” A study of the Book of Acts taught by the Pastor

Activities for Preschoolers and Children Youth Choir resumes

January 8, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, January 11 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM “Financial Peace”/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct. 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Monday, January 12 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, January 13 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./241 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, January 14 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev. Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Facility Planning Comm/Parlor 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Young Adult Bible Study/107 8:00 PM Thursday, January 15 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Mommy Time/Parlor 6:00 PM Friday, January 16 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM FBC Stu. D-Now/CLC 6:00 PM D-Now Weekend/Chapel 7:00 PM Saturday, January 17 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM FBC Stu. D-Now 3:00 PM Weekend/CLC D-Now Weekend/Chapel 6:00 PM

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern The Ministry of Choir The extraordinary effectiveness of a choir’s ministry has been evident in recent days at FBC.

• The impact of the Living Christmas Tree is resonating throughout our city, as comments and other feedback continue to pour in, now several weeks after the fact. Thank you, choir, for your hard work throughout the Fall in preparing to present music of such diversity, depth, beauty and meaning.

• The power of singing great music together in an experience that goes beyond

words is quite extraordinary. The end result is far greater than simply the sum of all the parts. Transcendency of expression in the worship of God can occur when great preparations have gone before. Thank you, choir, for giving yourself to something beyond the individual and immediate.

• The community that develops within a choir can usher forth in renewed

understanding of God’s love and grace. The ways that our choir has supported through prayer and action the family of Barry Vines in recent days is indicative of Christian community being lived out. Thank you, choir, for your ministry.

Our Sanctuary Choir of 2009 has two incredible opportunities that it will seize beginning this weekend---the commissioned anthem of our Bicentennial Celebration Year, and the Brahms Requiem. In the kickoff of preparations Friday night and Saturday morning, our beloved choir will immerse itself in learning a brand new piece, just written, and composed especially for us, “Run the Race with Perseverance,” by Michael Cox. It is a fabulous composition that will be presented to our congregation in just a few weeks. The choir will also tackle the nearly overwhelming challenge of the Brahms Requiem, one of the greatest choral/orchestral works of all time. Singing this work in the context of faith, and in remembrance of and thanksgiving for the 200 years of saints who have served Christ through our church, will be truly extraordinary. Interested in giving yourself to this extraordinary ministry? Contact our Music Ministry Office for more details. The annual visit to Blue Spring is just around the corner, with Easter music, the June Bicentennial Celebration, and a Fall Hymn Festival to come! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ MUSIC MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES This week----Children’s Choirs and Praise Bands resume Sunday---Youth Choir resumes Monday---Hallelujah Choir resumes February 8----Pastor and musicians to First Missionary Baptist, Blue Spring February 22----FBC Orchestra In Concert (5:00 pm) March 1----Premiere of commissioned anthem March 19----Organ Recital by Elizabeth Hostetter (city-wide Lenten Series) April 5----VOICES concert (Youth Choir Festival presentation, with guest conductor Stephen Carrell)

FIFTEEN-YEAR ANNIVERSARY This Sunday, we will recognize Sue McElyea for 15 years of service as a Ministry Assistant on our church staff. Since January 13, 1994, Sue has served us faithfully in a number of roles, and presently serves as the Missions and Outreach Ministry Assistant. Her current assignments involve producing our weekly newsletter, The Messenger, and various other weekly publications. Among many other duties, Sue works with Sunday School records and coordinates and orders all of our Sunday School literature. She makes our office inviting with her welcoming smile and gracious spirit. Feel free to stop by the Main Office Suite and thank Sue for her fifteen years of faithful and dedicated service to us.

Student Ministries Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students

FYI Menu

Wednesday, January 14

Adults Taco Salad

with meat, lettuce, cheese, beans, tomatoes

Cheese Cake

Salad Grilled Chicken Salad

(Reservations for salad must be turned in by noon on Wednesday.)

Kid’s Meal

Pizza, Fruit, Cookie, Milk

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #14 - January 4, 2009

Year-to-Date Goal: $1,341,488.00 Offering:

This Week $68,233,87 YTD $1,410,458.87

Debt Retirement: This Week $4,843.00 YTD $31,714.72

WORSHIP SERVICES December 28, 2008 Sanctuary Worship 758 TOTAL 758 January 4, 2009 First Fellowship 317 Sanctuary Worship 765 TOTAL 1082

A SPECIAL “THANK YOU”

To all of the FBC men and women who helped with the immense task of “putting up” and “taking down” the Living Christmas Tree, we do thank you. Without your willingness to help, this great task could not be accomplished. Gordon Perry and Holly Canup

DID YOU KNOW?

The entire 2008 Living Christmas Tree performance can be seen on our FBC

website. Just click on LCT video.

Early Adult Ministry Pam McDaniel, Minister to Early Adults

COUPLE TIME/DATE NIGHT Friday, January 30 - FBC Fellowship Hall

Dinner and Program facilitated by Jack and Amanda Ragland, The Vine Pastoral Counseling Center

Information from The Vine: With a continually increasing divorce rate, our culture is full of forces capable of undermining our marriages. Now more than ever, our marriages need to be centered in our relationship with God. Marriage is meant to be lived as a three-way covenant between God, husband and wife. As a three-strand cord, our marriages will not be quickly broken (Eccl. 4:12). On Friday, January 30, we will host an evening that can be like a date-night. Come as a couple, and bring your friends; plan ahead with us, and we will help make sure you sit at the same table. We will enjoy a catered meal, and we will have a program that celebrates the spiritual aspect of our marital relationships which makes them strong. The cost is $25.00 per couple. For more information or to reserve a spot, contact www.vinepcc.com or call 461-8580.

Disciple-Now Weekend January 16-18

A D-Now is a great time for students to grow in their faith through small group Bible studies in homes, worship, mission

activities, and tons of fun with friends over the course of a weekend. Sign-up is now open. Registration forms are being

mailed and are available in the Student Ministry area. A D-Now Weekend is a great event to invite a friend

that does not attend church.

Cost: $25.00 per person Register by Wednesday, January 14

The group Four Days Late will lead worship and David McDaniel will be our speaker.

ESTABLISHED 1809 Ephesians 3:17-18, TNIV—”I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of

Christ.”

From the makers of Centri-Kid & Centrifuge... MFuge is camp filled with Bible study, worship, fun, and daily mission activities. www.fuge.com

For all students in grades 7-12!

June 15-20—Nashville, TN Cost: $290 through January 25 • After January 25, cost is $325 • $100 deposit due with registration

MEMORIALS ( August 1, 2008-December 24, 2008 )

BUILDING FUND

Marjorie & Earl Cloud, Sr.

Dr. June Foley

Mr. Bill Lucas, Jr. Mrs. Doris Neville

Latham & Ann Walker

HARP FUND

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple Mrs. Louise Stephens

Joan G. Dowdle

LOCAL MISSIONS

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple Dr. Grady Baker

Mrs. Barbara Darnell Mr. Forest Herrington

Mr. David Hinkle Mrs. Jocie Taylor

Ethel Bush

Dr. Grady Baker Virgil & Maxine Berry

Mr. David Hinkle

Mr. George H. Shepherd Bill & Dot Barnes

LOTTIE MOON MISSION OFFERING

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple

Dr. Grady Baker Mrs. Betty Boulton

Mr. James “Jim” Flinn Mr. Louis Dees, Jr. Mr. Bill Lucas, Jr.

Mrs. Doris Newman Mr. George Shepherd

Ms. Gwen Smock Mr. Borton Tranter Mrs. Maxie Wells Johnnie T. Zbinden

MEMORIAL FUND

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple Tom & Marilyn Guffin

Dr. Grady Baker

Nathalee H. Callaway Sara G. Haraway

Ralph & Lavonne McCallum Carl A. Morring. Jr.

Harry & Linda Pearce Marcus & Emma Pearson

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor

Mr. Howard W. Drake Paul & Janice Allison

Jean Drake

Mr. James “Jim” Lindley Flinn, Jr. Nancy H. Allen

Charles & Becky Boyd Nathalee Callaway

Paul S. Jones Family Winfred & Frances Jones

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor

Mr. James Harris Lula W. Bates

Mr. David Hinkle

Brothers & Sisters of the Allred Family Mr. & Mrs. Clyde N. Barclay

C. C. & Martha Fountain Carl A. Morring, Jr.

Ann & Latham Walker

Mr. Forrest Herrington Glenda & Joe Ed Bragg

Mr. Johnie Verne Jordon

Daniel & Anne Clough

Mr. Bill Lucas, Jr. Luther Click

J. D. & Barbara Kirkland Kathy Plexico

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor Glen & Ann Ritter

Howard & Dot Sanderford

Mr. George Shepherd Linda & Bill Ayers

Stephen & Lynn Baginski Josephine B. Baker

Linda & Michael Bamber Mr. & Mrs. James A. Brown Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Brown

Mr. & Mrs. Mitchell Brown Sara & Jimmy Gullett Mrs. G. H. Hallman Jackie Hammersley

Mary & Camille Harris David W. Harvey

Kiwanis Club of Huntsville Harriet Davis Krueger

William Krueger Ollie & Mary Lambert

Gaines & Helen Lawrence Jeff & Lisa Lawrence Holly Shepherd Lollar Kim & Gary McClain Louis & Jane Moore

Everette & Melba Ramage Mary Lou Schram

Mr. & Mrs. W. Hal Shepherd

Ms. Gwen Smock Jeanne E. Grant

Mrs. Louise Stephens Tom & Marilyn Guffin

Scott & Lady Smith

MISSIONS FUND

Mrs. Marjorie Cloud Mr. Forest Herrington

Mr. David Hinkle Mr. Homer Powers

Joy & Michael Moore

Mr. George Shepherd Paul & Martha Nelson

RALPH LANGLEY PREACHING SCHOLARSHIP

Mr. Forest Herrington

Jim & Ola Ann Lee

TV MINISTRY

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple John C. Weaver

WMU FOUNDATION

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple Jody & Phil McCuiston

WORLD HUNGER

Homer & Helen Hall

Ralph & Lynda Romero

HONORARIUMS

GLOBAL MISSIONS

Howard & Dot Sanderford Mary Ann Delano

GRACE LANGLEY FUND

Dr. Ralph Langley Barbara Herrington

RALPH LANGLEY PREACHING SCHOLARSHIP

Dr. Ralph Langley Barbara Herrington

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 1. January 8, 2009

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool

Encouraging Moments Kids have a way of speaking words of encouragement that create heart moments in a parent that are more significant than those children ever imagined. And God knows that we need that kind of support. Parenting is hard work, and hope is a cherished commodity that keeps parents moving forward when they feel like things are falling apart either in themselves or in their kids.

Children also have the ability to turn the things parents teach them into lessons for others, including you. On the one hand, it’s quite encouraging to see that your child is getting it, but on the other hand, it can be difficult to receive a rebuke from your child. Children have an uncanny way of sensing truth and proclaiming it. Maybe that's why God likens our own spiritual growth to be like a child growing up.

Even though parents are always learning and growing, understanding God's grace in its various forms is a challenge for even the most mature person. God uses hardship and trials to develop the character in a person's life. Romans 5:3-4 says, "Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." The struggles parents face within themselves and with their children are part of God's refining process.

God has many ways of sending parents messages of hope. They sometimes come through a scripture passage or a pastor's message. A husband or wife can be a great source of encouragement in family life, but there's something about God's use of a child that has the ability to go straight to your heart. It's those moments that parents can look back on and cherish during the difficult times. This parenting tip comes from the book Family Heart Moments, True and Inspiring Stories by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN. PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT WHEN? February 6, 2009, 6 – 9 p.m. WHERE? Main building of FBC for ALL children WHO? Babies – 6th Grade WHY? Kids just wanna’ have fun! Parents can go out together. HOW MUCH? $5.00 per child, maximum of $15.00 per family HOW? Call Childhood Ministries office, 428-9411, no later than January 25th

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY

Amanda Allen in the loss of her grandmother, Iva Cargle Joyce Ellett in the death of her husband and Lynne Ellett in the loss of her father, Boots Ellett, Sr. Carl & Libby Laitinen and family in the loss of his father, Matthew Laitinen Paro & Joyce Perrett in the loss of his brother, Bill Perrett Elsie Rogers in the loss of her nephew, Claude (Buddy) Rogers Amy & Chris Thompson in the loss of her grandfather and Andrew and Jacob Thompson in the loss of their great-grandfather, Carter Dobbs Family and friends of our member, Barry Vines, especially to his wife, Ann Vines, and his step-children, Greg & Bradley Lansdell and Deanne & Tyler Vail

Financial Peace Class will begin January 25 and meet each Sunday at 4 p.m. in the Parlor. A one-hour

Orientation Class will be offered Sunday, January 11, at 5:00 p.m. in the Parlor. To learn more about this opportunity, you are encouraged to attend the January 11 Orientation Class.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Ellene Flinn, Alice Tranter, Deanna Geurkink, Charles Rollins, and Susan Cornelius. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

NEEDED Forty-five dutch ovens/soup pots are needed for serving soup at the tables on Sunday evening, January 18, at our Bicentennial kickoff. If you can help with this, please bring them to the kitchen by Wednesday, January 14.

Sunday, January 18 Games, Crafts, Square Dance,

Meal & Program

October 30, 2008


Happy Birthday! You are 200 years old, you know. Now that does sound old, doesn’t it? In fact you are older than the state of Alabama. You are older than the Southern Baptist Convention. You have been around a long time! Happy Anniversary! You have been in a committed relationship

for 200 years. Bound by the covenant of the church, our lives are connected together – and that connection has lasted longer than any marriage ever could. You are First Baptist Church, and this is your birthday and your anniversary. The celebration now officially begins. Sunday we start a year-long observance of our 200 years of life and relationship. Over those 200 years we have gathered in five different buildings for worship and Bible Study. Beautiful paintings of those buildings will be dedicated in worship this Sunday. Our theme of “The Footprints Continue” and our theme Scripture verses of Hebrews 12: 1-2 will guide our worship this Sunday morning. I hope that you can be present for the special day. After our morning worship I hope that you will travel with me back to 1809 – in the beginning. Whether you come to the afternoon dessert gathering or the evening meal, you will meet people from the past who will help you understand what life was like for those charter members of First Baptist Church. As our celebration begins, it is a good idea to go back to the beginning. Perhaps you remember those movies called “Back to the Future.” That is a good way to think about this great anniversary that lies before us. We go back – all the way back to 1809. But we do so not only to remember our past but to prepare for our future. “The Footprints Continue” we say. That means the people who have come before us have made their imprint on this church and community. It also means that we are a part of ensuring that these footprints of faith will continue for another 200 years. So let’s go back, starting with this Sunday. Then let our backward look launch us into the great future that God has in store for us. I look forward to making this anniversary journey with you.

Sunday, January 18, 2009 Kickoff for our Bicentennial Celebration

Sermon: “The Footprints Continue”

Hebrews 12:1-2 Our Bicentennial Celebration begins this Sunday as

we consider what the theme of our celebration means to each one of us.

First Fellowship - 8:15 -Fellowship Hall Music from Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem -

”Come, Christians, Join to Sing” (Young) Tom Guffin, vocal solo

Solo instrumental offertory

Sunday Afternoon 2:30—3:45 p.m. - Fellowship Hall Bicentennial Program and Dessert

As we enjoy a dessert representative of 1809, we will learn some “in the beginning” stories of FBC through shared

fun and lively presentations of characters who would have lived in that era.

4:00-5:45 p.m. 1809 Fun and Games at the Christian Life Center

Including - soap carving... corn husk dolls... potholder weaving... giant pick sticks... giant checkers and tic tac toe... tops and jacks... square dancing and waltzing!

6:00 – 7:15 p.m.

Bicentennial Program and Meal in Fellowship Hall (Tickets have sold out for this meal)

While we enjoy a meal representative of 1809, we will learn some “in the beginning” stories of FBC through lively presentations of characters who would have lived in that era.

January 15, 2009 January 15, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, January 18 FBC D-Now/CLC 6:00—9:00 AM First Fellowship 8:15 AM Bicentennial Kickoff Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM FBC D-Now/Chapel 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Bicentennial Kickoff Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Bicentennial “In the Beginning” 2:30 PM Program and Dessert/FH Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Boy Scouts Comm/342 4:00 PM 1809 Fun & Games/CLC 4:00 PM Bicentennial “In the Beginning” Banquet and Program”/FH 6:00 PM Monday, January 19 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers/342 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 20 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, January 21 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Congregational Life Comm/114 5:00 PM Missions Strategy/Parlor 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Young Adult Bible Study/107 8:00 PM Thursday, January 22 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, January 23 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Fellowship Club Day Trip 10:30 AM Saturday, January 24 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM Ladies’ Retreat January 23,24,25 Fort Payne, AL

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach A Great Start to the New Year

With the start of a new year this may be a time to make some commitments to enhance your spiritual walk with God. We all know the importance of the basics of Bible study and prayer. As you ponder the fortifying of your spiritual journey, remember that a disciple is incomplete without involvement in service and outreach. Make it a priority this year to find several different opportunities to serve your community and others. Of course making a commitment now to participate in Serving the City on Saturday, April 18, would be a

natural choice. Along with service, pray about and decide on one person who does not have a relationship to Christ to focus your care and concern on this year. Plan to go to lunch or surprise them with a gift of kindness at unexpected times. Set up a schedule of ideas of building that relationship with a heart of love. Worthy goals – biblically sound – and an important part of becoming Christ-like in all we do. Have a great 2009!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED First Baptist Church has needs for volunteer helpers almost every week to help with the many ministries within our church from assisting in the church office with mail-outs to preparing worship guides. If you have some time during the week that you could give, if you like fellowshipping with other people, then this ministry is for you.

Kay Gover is our Team Leader She would be delighted to talk with you and help you find a place to serve.

Choose one of three easy ways to join…. Email Mark Seanor - [email protected]

Call the Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403 Or contact Kay Gover at 536-8317

MARRIAGE WORKSHOP

MARRIAGE WORKSHOP OFFERED BY THE VINE – Come and explore how marriage best fulfills its God-given purpose as it is lived out in a three-way covenant between God, husband and wife. Marriage as a Three-Strand Cord is a biblically based consideration of this covenant. The workshop led by Drs. Jack and Amanda Ragland, will be Friday, January 30th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost is $25.00 per couple and includes dinner and a program. For more information, or to register, please contact The Vine (256-461-8580), website (www.vinepcc.com). MARRIAGE CONSULTS OFFERED BY THE VINE – A Marriage Consult provides opportunity for you and your spouse to evaluate your marriage, to name your strength and to discover areas for growth using questionnaires and conversation with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. This is intended as a safeguard for even healthy marriages. For more information contact The Vine (256-461-8580) or check our website (www.vinepcc.com).

TRIP TO WASHINGTON, DC - OUR NATION’S CAPITAL May 14 - 19, 2009 (Thursday - Tuesday) - Cost is $525 *

$75 Due Upon Sign-up *Price per person, based on double occupancy. Add $170 for single occupancy

FOR MORE INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS CONTACT: Adult Ministry Office @ 428-9400. Final Payment Due: 3/8/2009

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern

A new year... The beginning of a new year is always a wonderful time to renew your commitment to get in shape. FBC’s Christian Life Center offers a number of opportunities to help you improve your health. We have a variety of weekly aerobics classes to meet your specific needs. Below is a list of the classes we offer:

Hi/Lo Aerobics – 9:00-10:00am (Mon, Wed, Fri) Step Aerobics – 5:30-6:30pm (Mon, Tues, Thurs) Seniorcize – 9:00-10:00am (Tues, Thurs)

Aikido Self Defense – 6:30-7:30pm (Tues, Thurs) Line Dancing – 9:00-11:30am (Mon) We also have an exercise room full of weight and aerobics equipment, including exercise bikes, spin bikes, and treadmills. The CLC has basketball

and racquetball courts, as well. For more information, call 428-9445; or take a tour of the CLC on your computer by visiting www.fbchsv.org/recreation.

SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, February 13th at the CLC. Please contact Kay Bugg if you are interested, 828-2700 or

FYI Menu

Wednesday, January 21

Adults Chicken-Fried Chicken

Mashed Potatoes Green Beans

Roll - Dessert



Kid’s Meal


PLEASE NOTE Youth Choir will not meet this Sunday

afternoon, January 18, due to the Bicentennial Kickoff events and D-Now.

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #15—January 11, 2009


This Week $50,715.53 YTD $1,461,174.40

Debt Retirement: This Week $520.00 YTD $32,234.72

ATTENDANCE January 11, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 100 Children 140 Students 118 Adults 696 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 23 New Members — Visitors 28 TOTAL 1105

Worship Services First Fellowship 340 Sanctuary Worship 757 TOTAL 1097

THANKS

A thank you note has been received from Johnnie Barnes and family. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

LADIES’ BIBLE STUDIES

Priscilla Shirer Study - "He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear From God" In this study, Priscilla shows us how God spoke to Samuel and how He speaks to Christians today. 7-week study - Tuesday mornings Beginning Tuesday, January 27 9:00 to 11:00 - Room 342 Childcare available on request. Call Donna Lehman at 536-9003 to sign up.

Precept Bible Study This class is the 4th part of the study of Revelation, but each part stands alone. So if anyone is interested in taking it, you are welcome to join in. The class will run from January 21 until May 7, taking off the week of Spring Break. Time is 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 in Room 342. If someone needs info, please contact Kennie Worlund at [email protected] or 539-4275.

DONATIONS NEEDED FOR ESL

English as a Second Language ministry would greatly benefit from donated cakes and/or money donations for our coffee breaks. The students prefer simple cakes that don't have frosting, such as different flavored pound cakes. If a monetary donation is more convenient, $30 covers what we would purchase. PLEASE consider doing this as a Sunday School, small group or even as a family. Our budget is very limited and this would help the monies we have to stretch through May. Please contact Tina Darby 837-5699 if you would like to help.

When Dr. John Ingle Riddle was President of Judson College (one of the oldest Women’s Colleges in the U.S.) he was famous for the following quote in messages to the student body: “With patience, perseverance, and a bottle of sweet oil the snail finally reaches Jerusalem.” Students believed that was his way of encouraging them to stay the course until it was time to celebrate graduation. Your Bicentennial Celebration Committee can relate to that statement. We are happy the time has finally come for past and present members to begin celebrating the 200th anniversary of First Baptist Church. As we have reflected over the history of this great church we realize even more what a blessing it is for all of us to be here, at this church, at this time. We have so much to celebrate but we also have a challenge before us as a Body of Christ to continue the work He has called us to do. The “Footprints” began on the banks of the Flint River on June 3, 1809 with a small group of pioneers, and it is unlikely that small group dreamed the church would grow, with God’s guidance, to the large congregation it is today with over 3,000 members. Members of First Baptist Church are involved in missions locally, in the state of Alabama, in numerous states throughout the U.S., and in many foreign countries. God has blessed First Baptist with visionaries and those who answered the call to serve in these varied mission opportunities. We trust you will take advantage of all the worship services that have been planned for you throughout 2009 and that you will be blessed by your participation. Information regarding these worship services is available throughout the church, on the website, and you will read about them regularly in the “Messenger.” The Committee asks you to pray that everything that is done to celebrate our 200th anni-versary will glorify God and point others to Him. While this truly is a time to celebrate our past and the present it is also a time for us to continue the “Footprints” of service, missions, and evangelism so future generations will know the One who has made First Baptist Church what it is today. There is so much work to be done and it is our prayer that we “will run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Thank you for the honor of serving you through the Bicentennial Celebration Committee. Patty Atherton

UNIQUE “QUILTS” ARE CREATED TO HELP CELEBRATE 200 YEARS OF HUNTSVILLE’S FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

Combining skills common to frontier housewives with those of modern Huntsville technologists, a group of Huntsville First Baptist members -- mostly women -- have created unique wall hangings that are central decora-tions for the church’s bicentennial celebration. They have designed and fabricated huge “quilts” that are displayed on both sides of the tall organ pipes which adorn the front of the 65-foot-tall sanctuary. They aren’t quilts in a conventional sense. Rather they are 12x18-foot quilted hangings that mimic the rain-bow in color and complement the bright colors of the 32-foot high stained glass windows that line the sanctuary walls. First Baptist was formed June 3, 1809 and is the oldest missionary Baptist body in Alabama, a decade older than the state. The theme of the year-long 200th birthday observance is “The Footprints Continue,” which is artistically depicted on the hangings as human footprints of increasing size from one quilt to the other. The theme wording, along with the biblical reference, appear on banners apart from the quilted hangings. The idea of the quilts originated with Glenn Brown, a member of the Bicentennial Observance Committee who has a designer’s eye. He presented his thought to Mrs. Janis Warman, a church member who is known as an experienced quilter and who has made banners for the church in the past. They devised a design that would com-plement the sanctuary and particularly the dominant colors. “Glenn designed this on his computer and selected the proper colors, then we measured the sanctuary spaces available and determined the appropriate sizes,” Mrs. Warman said. With the help of Mrs. Warman’s grandson, William Bugg, footprints were designed in proper prospective. “With Glenn’s design I sat down with large graph paper and put the design into 12-inch squares, making the quilts 12 squares across and 18 squares vertically,” Mrs. Warman stated. Next she took the design to a pro-fessional machine quilter to assure that the unusual size could be accommodated. From past experience she knew that cotton fabric for the top and backing would be best, with batting in between. Volunteer workers were so-licited, and many offered fabrics from their own collections, while other pieces were purchased. A work space in the church’s Christian Life Center was reserved for up to four weeks. Stitching began on October 13, 2008, and 17 days later that important phase of the work was completed on the second and final quilt. The quilts were then taken to a professional machine quilter who created the design of the footprints on her com-puter and stitched them onto the quilts. Seventeen First Baptist women participated in the project, accruing a total of 1,200 hours of work in the process, which included the binding and the placement of sleeves on the backs for hanging purposes. Principal workers on the project, in addition to Janis Warman, were Hannah Alderson, Janice Allison, Ann Bailey, Kay Warman Bugg, Denise Carter, Joyce Freisen, Carelese Hinton, Beth Hoffman, Deborah Mason, Hallie McDavid, Linda Nowlin, Mary Ann Prince, Bettye Pugh, Sara Stokes, Libby Whisenant, and Pat Williams. Oth-ers who helped with supplies and provided “wonderful goodies” were Ann Clinton, Amy Walker and Mary Reeder. For posterity’s sake, a fabric label was placed on the back of each quilt, briefly telling the story of the pro-ject and naming the participants. (By Joe Jones, Historian) (Editor's Note: This article was written for the forthcoming FBC history book, due in June 2009. and is reproduced here in connection with the hanging of the quilts.)

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 2, January 15, 2009

Experienced Adult Ministry Mark Seanor, Minister to Experienced Adults

Golden Anniversary Celebration

February 12, 2009

Tell Us Your Story of 50+ Years of Marriage

On Thursday, February 12th, at a special dinner and program, we will honor and celebrate those First Baptist couples who have been

married 50+ years. In order to help us celebrate this milestone, your help is needed. Here is how you can help. Instructions:

• Answer a minimum of two or more of the following questions about those early years. The fifth question is a must.

• Use no more that 175 words.

• Electronic copies are preferred; however, if you are not able to e-mail your answers you may turn in a written copy. ([email protected])

• The deadline for submitting your answers will be Sunday, January 25th, 2009. January 25th, 2009 is also the deadline for photos of your wedding day. (these will be scanned and returned)

The questions are: 1. Where and when did you marry?

2. Where and how did you meet?

3. Where did you honeymoon and what song/music was special to you?

4. A humorous story or unusual event that occurred during dating, wedding, or early marriage. 5. What are the key ingredients that have made your marriage successful?

Tuesday Evenings — January 20 – April 14

6:00-7:30 p.m. - CLC Registration: $15

Call 428-9400 or visit www.fbchsv.org for more information.

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS

Christian Women’s Job Corps is in need of mentors for our upcoming spring classes. Training for mentors will be held on Tuesday, January 20, in Room 333 of First Baptist Church from 6:00 – 8:30 pm. If you are interested in learning more about mentoring, please contact Elaine Dickson at 428-9435 or [email protected]

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Rick & Cindy Maxwell in the loss of his sister and Rob, Hannah, and Susan Maxwell, in the loss of their aunt, Phyllis Cook Woody & Linda Williams in the loss of his aunt, Annie Ruth Williams STITCHING—SEWING—QUILTING!! On Thursday, January 22, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at our Christian Life Center there will be an interest meeting of women who like to stitch. Whether you are stitching a hem, doing embroidery, needlepoint, or quilting (machine or hand stitching), please come and join in the Fellowship and Fun of stitching with other women. We will talk about other times and places to meet, fellowship, and stitch. Please contact Janis Warman at 880-2058 or e-mail [email protected] if you are interested.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

WHEN? February 6,, 6 – 9 p.m. WHERE? Main building of FBC for ALL children WHO? Babies – 6th Grade WHY? Kids just wanna’ have fun! Parents can go out together. HOW MUCH? $5.00 per child, maximum of $15.00 per family HOW? Call Childhood Ministries office, 428-9411, no later than January 25th

October 30, 2008


Our Bicentennial Journey has begun. Sunday was a day of rich celebration, worship, fellowship, and fun. I am grateful to all who worked so hard to make the day possible. Now, where do we go? As we launch our Bicentennial Celebration, the theme for our anniversary will give direction to our worship. Using words that had great meaning in the history of our church, we will

reflect on some of the footprints that have gone before us and discuss how we can continue these footprints with our faith and ministry today. This past Sunday we began the series “The Footprints Continue.” Listed below you will find the messages for the weeks ahead that develop this same theme. I invite you to join us for worship each Sunday. January 25 “There Was Much Water There” John 3:22-23 February 1 “Respond Ye to this Sacred Call” Matthew 11:28-30 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper February 8 “Extend an Arm” Matthew 28:18-20 February 15 “You are the Light of the World” John 8:12 and Matthew 5:14-16 February 22 “Enlarge the Place of Thy Dwelling” Isaiah 54:2-3

Continuing the theme of “looking ahead,” let me call your attention to a Baptist meeting that might be of interest to you. The New Baptist Covenant will have a Regional Gathering in Birmingham on Saturday, January 31, at the 16th Street Baptist Church and the Birmingham Civil Rights Museum. This gathering is designed to bring together a celebration of Baptist churches across racial lines in order to celebrate unity in Christ and to focus on ministry to the poor. Keynote addresses will be given by Former President Jimmy Carter, Beeson Divinity School Professor of Preaching Robert Smith, and Marian Wright Edelman, founder and President of the Children’s Defense Fund. Special interest sessions will be provided in the morning and afternoon to share specific information about the ministry topics being explored. You can find more information at www.se.newbaptistcovenant.org. I plan to attend this meeting and invite you to come if this would be a gathering that has meaning for you.

Sunday, January 25 Message Series: “The Footprints Continue”

Sermon: “There Was Much Water There” John 3:22-23

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from A20


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music: “Keep Your Lamps” (Thomas)

FBC Orchestra Offertory—“Blessed Are They” (Brahms)

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall “The Footprints Begin”

A Study of the Book of Acts “Witnesses in Jerusalem - Acts 3:1—8:3

Women’s Bible Studies

Priscilla Shirer 7-week Study "He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear From God"

In this study, Priscilla shows how God spoke to Samuel and how He speaks to Christians today. Tuesday mornings, beginning

January 27, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. - Room 342

Precept Bible Study This class is the 4th part of the study of Revelation, but each part stands alone. So if anyone is interested in taking it, you are welcome to join in. The class will run from January 21 until May 7, taking off the week of Spring Break. Time is 9:00 -11:00 a.m. in Room 342. For more information please contact Kennie Worlund at 539-4275 or [email protected].

Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman 11-week Beth Moore study beginning February 4 at 10:00 a.m. - home of Holly Canup, 102 Preserve Ct. Madison. E-mail Holly at [email protected] or call 256-722-2770. to sign up. Going up against heavyweights bent on her destruction, Esther trusted God and landed a blow that saved her people. The Old Testament story of Esther is a profile in courage and contains many modern parallels for today's woman. Esther's destiny can be yours as you know more deeply the God who is in your corner.

December 18, 2008 January 22, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, January 25 Ladies’ Retreat, Off site 8:00—11:00 AM First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Family Dedication Gathering/Chapel 10:00 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship Family Dedication/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM FBC Saxophone Ensemble/CR 4:00 PM Boy Scouts Comm/342 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts Youth Snack Supper/241 6:00 PM Monday, January 26 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers/342 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 27 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, January 28 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM History Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Young Adult Bible Study/107 8:00 PM Thursday, January 29 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, January 30 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM “The Vine” Dinner/FH 6:00 PM Saturday, January 31 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM Master Class, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Trombones/CR

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern The Youth Choir …is off to a great start in 2009. Our rehearsals continue this Sunday, January 25, at 5 pm, followed by Snack Supper. This particular rehearsal is very important since we missed the 18th due to D-Now and the Bicentennial kickoff. The group will sing for worship February 1. One of the keys to our ministry with youth in choir is the team of Youth Choir Sponsors. These adults help to cover the many details of youth choir activities, including assistance at rehearsals. Their contribution of time and energy help to make the YC ministry effective to the lives of our students. Thank you to Karen Anderson, Greg & Kelley Ellison, Stuart & LeAnne Fowler, Suzanne Hefner, Amy McKenzie, Suzanne Norris, Wayne & Janice Owen, Anne Reasons, Phillip & Laura Roberts, Randy & Kristy Taylor, and Marilyn West Blue Spring ….is the shorthand phrase for our annual connections with a very special sister church, the First Missionary Baptist Church on Blue Spring Road. On the Sunday evening of February 8, our choir and orchestra will join our pastor in helping lead the annual combined worship service there of our two congregations. This is always a delightful gathering, full of inspiration and fellowship. Thank you, choir and orchestra, for your extra efforts in making this event so meaningful. The pre-service rehearsals at Blue Spring will be: 5:30 pm Orchestra in the sanctuary (newly refurbished) 6:00 pm Choir in the Choir Room We will follow our regular pattern with robes and music. Contact the Music Ministry Office if you have questions. (428-9421) Run the Race with Perseverance …..is the title of our commissioned anthem for the Bicentennial Celebrations this year. Written by Michael Cox (remember his thrilling Deo Gratias of a few years ago?), this piece connects our focal scripture passage of Hebrews 12:1-2 with Ephesians 3:14-21 and weaves a beautiful tapestry of music around them. This wonderful and significant new artistic creation will be premiered by our choir and orchestra on Sunday, March 1, at the Sanctuary Worship hour. Plan to be present! Dr. Cox will be with us that day, as well. (The choir and orchestra are reminded of their session with him on Saturday morning, February 28, in preparation for the Sunday presentation. He will have some background on the piece which will be of great interest.)

The FBC Orchestra IN CONCERT

Sunday evening, February 22 5:00 p.m.

WOMEN ON MISSION Tuesday, February 3

9:30 a.m. - Room 118 Speaker: Joe Turman, Missionary on Three Continents

Come learn about his places of service (Viet Nam, Philippines, Indonesia, Zambia, Slovakia)


FYI Menu

Wednesday, January 28 Adults

Steak Burger Baked Beans - Chips

Dessert

Salad Chef’s Salad


Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT NOT AVAILABLE DUE TO

BANK HOLIDAY.


Sunday School

Preschool 86 Children 135 Students 118 Adults 702 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 27 New Members - - Visitors 32 TOTAL 1100


FBC LIBRARY HOURS

SUNDAYS 9:00 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m.- 10:45 a.m. 11:40 a.m. –12:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS 10:00 a.m.—1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Please visit the

FBC Library’s website at www.fbchsv.org/library.

Tuesday Evenings

January 20 – April 14 6:00-7:30 p.m. - CLC

Registration: $15 Call 428-9400 or visit www.fbchsv.org for more information.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool PARENTING An Important Distinction

There's a big difference between punishment and discipline. Punishment gives a negative consequence, but discipline means "to teach." Punishment is negative; discipline is positive. Punishment focuses on past misdeeds. Discipline focuses on future good deeds. Punishment is often motivated by anger. Discipline is motivated by love. Punishment focuses on justice to balance the scales. Discipline focuses on teaching, to prepare for next time.

The child who teases relentlessly, the child who whines for a snack, and the child who bickers with his brother all have one thing in common: a need to change patterns of behavior and a need to change the heart. Some parents only use punishment or anger to motivate their children to act differently. This attitude says, "If I just point out the problem enough times, he'll eventually change."

What these kids really need is firm correction with a positive focus. Be sure to tell your children what they should do in place of the unwanted behavior. Teach them right responses to replace the negative ones. Have them practice doing the right thing before they are free to go. It takes more work to discipline instead of punish but the rewards are certainly worth it. Children grow and develop new patterns of healthy responses. This idea was taken from the book Home Improvement, The Parenting Book You Can Read to Your Kids by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN BSN.

REMINDERS: Deadline for Parents’ Night Out Reservations – January 25! Call 428-9411 Deadline for MOPS/Moppets for February 23 meeting is February 16! Call 428-9411

THANK YOU! To all who made the D-Now Weekend a success!

Transportation—Darrell Eldridge; Food—LeAnn Fowler; Mission Project—Chris Sims; Host Homes—John & Elaine Dickson, Vernon & Beth Bice, Dr. Joseph & Cathy Hicks, Phillip &

Felecia Stallcup, Dr. Park & Kim Mims, John and Susan Wessinger, Dr. Mark & Cindy Russell, and Keith & Suzanne Hefner; and all the people who assisted in some or many ways.

From the makers of Centri-Kid & Centrifuge... MFuge is camp filled with Bible study, worship, fun, and daily mission activities. For all students in grades 7-12!

June 15-20—Nashville, TN Cost: $290 through January 25 After January 25, cost is $325

$100 deposit due with registration

Sunday, February 1—at the CLC—5:00

Dinner for Preschool Moms If you have a child in the Preschool Ministries (Babies – Kindergar-ten) of our church, you are invited to come to a covered dish dinner at the home of Joy Moore on February 19 beginning at 6:00 p.m. Come, visit with other Moms, try new dishes, and enjoy a great meal and wonderful fellowship together. This is a Mom’s only event! Watch your mail for a reminder card with more information. Hope you will come.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 3, January 22, 2009.


MARRIAGE WORKSHOP OFFERED BY THE VINE – Come and explore how marriage best fulfills its God-given purpose as it is lived out in a three-way covenant between God, husband and wife. Marriage as a Three-Strand Cord is a biblically based consideration of this covenant. The workshop led by Drs. Jack and Amanda Ragland, will be Friday, January 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. The cost is $25.00 per couple and includes dinner and a program. For more information, or to register, please contact The Vine (256-461-8580), website (www.vinepcc.com).

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS Mentors are needed for our upcoming spring classes. If you are interested in learning more about mentoring, please contact Elaine Dickson at 428-9435 or [email protected] Ministry Position Available: Computer Teacher for the First Baptist Church Site Time Commitment: 4.5 hours a week for 10 weeks Computer Knowledge Needed: Basic Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel If you know anyone who would be interested in this part-time position, please have them call 428-9435. There is a monetary stipend provided. We are looking for a committed Christian woman to help our students build and grow their computer skills.

Ladies’ Luncheon

Sunday, February 15 Fellowship Hall

Immediately following the

10:30 a.m. Worship Service

Speaker: Amanda Allen, Children’s Music and Missions Minister

Cost: $7 Make checks payable to FBC.

Sign up will be on

on Wednesdays and Sundays through February 8. You may also sign up with Sherry Jarnagin in the Adult Ministries Office.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Betty Gilliand 3224 Stonewall Rd SE Owens Cross Roads AL 35763-8647 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Lucy & Rick Coleman in the loss of her son--in-law, Robert Rainey Joan Dowdle in the loss of her brother, John Gates Judy Green in the loss of her son, Harold Green Arnold Hornbuckle in the loss of his niece, Linda Keller Hope & Jamie Mackey in the loss of her grandfather and Cade and Story Mackey in the loss of their great-grandfather, Orville Owens

THANKS Thank you notes have been received from Laura Walke and Linda and Bill Horn. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

BLOOD PROFILES Once again blood profiles will be offered through our CLC starting February 1. Forms may be picked up at the CLC. Executive Profile is $30 Executive Male (PSA) is $35 This opportunity will be available for the month of February!

50+ WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

We have no records of wedding dates in our data system. The only way we know is if you tell us. If you have celebrated a 50th Wedding Anniversary and have not heard from us about this event, please contact the Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403 to give us that information. If you have received an invitation and have not RSVP’d, please do so by Sunday, January 25

PLEASE NOTE A green dutch oven went home with the wrong family last Sunday night. Please check to see if it is in your kitchen, then return it to the church kitchen to exchange for the yellow one.

Thanks, Syble

October 30, 2008


Anne Lamott writes the following words in her book, Traveling Mercies:

When [my pastor Veronica] was about 7, her best friend got lost one day. The little girl ran up and down the streets of the big town where they lived, but she couldn't find a single landmark. She was very frightened. Finally a policeman stopped to help her. He put her in the passenger seat of his car, and they drove around until finally she saw her church. She pointed it out to the policeman, and then she told him firmly, "You could let me out now. This is my church, and I can always find my way home from here." And that is why I have stayed so close to mine - because no matter how bad I am feeling, how lost or lonely or frightened, when I see the faces of the people at my church, and hear their tawny voices, I can always find my way home.

We are talking a great deal about the church these days as we celebrate the Bicentennial Anniversary of First Baptist Church. Our purpose is not just to review the great history of our church. Instead, this is a season of recommitment and renewal. We remind ourselves of the importance of church in our lives. These are also difficult days for many within our congregation. We need the encouragement, guidance, fellowship, and love of each other in days that are not easy. I am thankful to be a part of a wonderful church community in the living of these days. Perhaps we can all echo the words written above when we think about First Baptist Church. “This is my church, and I can always find my way home from here.”

Sunday, February 1, 2009 Message Series: “The Footprints Continue” Sermon: “Respond Ye to This Sacred Call”

Matthew 11:28-30 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from A2O


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music: Youth Choir will sing —Indescribable -Arr Lawrence

Sanctuary Choir Anthem —Make Our Church One Joyful Choir -Crutchfield

Music from the Trombone Choir

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall

FOUNDATIONS - “The Footprints Begin” A Study of the Book of Acts

“Witnesses in Judea and Samaria” - Acts 8:4-40

December 18, 2008 January 29, 2009

Ladies’ Luncheon Sunday, February 15

Fellowship Hall

Immediately following the 10:30 a.m. Worship Service Speaker: Amanda Allen, Children’s Music & Missions Minister

Cost: $7 - Make checks payable to FBC. You may sign up on Wednesdays and Sundays through February 8, or with Sherry Jarnagin,

in the Adult Ministries Office. If you have questions, call Kimberly Collette, 830-8168.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, February 1 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Bicentennial Gift Comm/117 1:30 –5:30 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM FBC Saxophone Ensemble/CR 4:00 PM Boy Scouts Comm/342 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations - “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts/FH Youth Snack Supper/241 6:00 PM Monday, February 2 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers/342 7:00 PM Tuesday, February 3 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, February 4 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Young Adult Bible Study/107 8:00 PM Thursday, February 5 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Serving the City Mtg/CLC 5:30 PM Friday, February 6 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Saturday, February 7 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM

JOINT WORSHIP SERVICE AT FIRST MISSIONARY

BAPTIST CHURCH, BLUE SPRING SUNDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 8

6:30 P.M.

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Serving the City 2009 - Saturday, April 18 All the people who are working with Serving the City are meeting and working hard on planning projects and preparing for the 2009 service day. In general, March will be the month for sign-ups for projects and for donations to come in. Donations were very successful last year as we worked through Sunday School departments and classes. This year, look for information in February on what we will ask your class or department to provide for Serving the City. New Hub Sites This year we are striving to begin two new hub sites... one in Madison and one in North Huntsville. Madison First Church of the Nazarene will be the host site for the Madison hub. I met with them last week and they are so excited about the opportunity to serve in this way. They are also a little overwhelmed with what all is involved. Please pray for their leadership and workers as they prepare for serving in Madison. Madison Churches If you have a friend or family in a Madison church, do call them now and encourage them to come to the Madison interest meeting on Monday, February 9, at 6:30 at First Church of the Nazarene, Madison, 8234 Madison Pike, just east of Dublin Park. The north Huntsville hub location is being considered by a church in that area and is in the process of approving their church as a hub. Pray also that they will feel led to fill this role. Prayer Walking – new this year One new area of service we are adding this year is prayer walking the city. I am very excited about this new outlet of service. Teams will sign up and go to specific areas around our city and prayer walk that site. Schools, City offices, the court house, hospitals, malls, police and fire stations are a few of the possible sites. Please consider signing up for this area in March. George Merritt is the project leader for this project. If you would like to be a team leader for one of the sites, contact George. Team leaders needed We are seeking team leaders in all areas of projects – see Rodger Keen, Andy Crocker, or any Serving the City worker about how you can help. Our goal this year is for 700 people from our church to be involved. Service is the natural response to the worship of God.

After each of the morning worship services on February 1, students will be standing at doors with soup pots collecting donations that will serve the food ministries of both the Huntsville Assistance Program (HAP) and the Downtown Rescue Mission.

Please give any loose change or larger gifts to help people in need in our community.

DEACON BANQUET

The annual FBC Deacon Banquet for all ordained deacons and ministers and their spouses is Thursday, evening, February 26, in the Fellowship Hall. The evening is a time of fellowship for all deacons, those who are currently active as well as those who are inactive. We encourage you to be a part of this special evening featuring a special guest musician. If your address is not on file in the church office please contact Susan Williams at 428-9400 or [email protected], so that we may send you an invitation.


Blood Profiles Offered in February The Recreation Ministry is teaming up with Huntsville Hospital again this year to bring you the opportunity to have a complete blood work-up administered at a greatly reduced price. The Executive Profile is $30, and the Executive Male Profile is $35 (which includes the PSA test). There is also a new test for Heart Disease available this year for an additional fee of $10. Cash and checks are accepted as payment (please

make checks payable to First Baptist Church). Come to the Christian Life Center to register. Blood work forms, as well as maps to the participating labs, will be available starting *February 1st. Lab work must be completed by February 28th. *Please note that we cannot hand out forms until February 1st. If you have any questions, please call 428-9445.

FYI

PLEASE NOTE

We have a new deadline for Messenger articles to be turned in.

Articles must be in by

9:00 a.m. on Thursday mornings prior to the week you wish to have

the article published.

Menu

Wednesday, February 4

Adults Chicken Pot Pie Layered Salad

Cranberry Congealed Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad

Chef’s Salad (Reservations for salad must be turned

in by noon on Wednesday.)

Kid’s Meal Pizza, Fruit, Cookie, Milk

STEWARDSHIP REPORTS

Week #16 - January 18


This Week $43,504.61 YTD $1,504,679.01


Week #17 - January 25, 2009


This Week $56,774.62 YTD $1,561,453.63



Sunday School


Worship Attendance First Fellowship 364 Sanctuary Worship 736 Ladies’ Retreat 29 TOTAL 1129

Children’s Ministry Cindy Russell, Minister to Children Church - It's Good for Your Kids

Church is good for children. That's the message of a new study that says young

children of church-going parents fare better behaviorally, emotionally and cognitively than do children of parents who never attend church. In fact, the more often the parents attend, the better off the kids are. The study by sociologist John P. Bartkowski and a team of researchers at Mississippi State University examined data from the nation-wide Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, which evaluated First-Graders by interviewing parents and teachers. In the data Bartkowski used, some 9,500 parents and 8,800 teachers were interviewed. The ECLS study was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics. Examining the ECLS data, Bartkowski and his team concluded it is "quite clear" that religious attendance impacts children positively. His research -- which claims to be a "first of its kind" study on the subject using "nationally representative data" -- will be published in the journal Social Science Research. "Religion does seem to be good for young children," the study says. "The religious attendance of parents and a cohesive religious environment in the home yields significant benefits for children's behavioral, emotional, and cognitive development, and such outcomes are most pronounced when both partners attend services frequently." "Religion" in the study includes all religions -- the ECLS survey did not ask specific faith questions -- so there is no way of knowing if there are differences among, say, Baptist, Catholic or Jewish families. But Bartkowski's study did determine that while church attendance is good for children, parental debate over religion is not. In fact, the study found that when parents argue about religion, it can "significantly undermine" a young child's development. However, when they are in agreement, it can be very beneficial. The study also said parent-child discussions about religion "often yield positive affects on child development." Regularity in attendance can make a difference, too. "In many of the developmental domains featured here, the children who are doing the best are in households where both parents attend worship services frequently," the authors wrote. The frequency of attendance may make a difference, the study says, because it gives other adults -- for example, in Sunday school settings -- the opportunity to "reinforce parental values" taught at home. Michael Foust, Baptist Press. Crosswalk Parenting, 2007. MARK YOUR CALENDAR Sports Camp June 8-9 Vacation Bible School June 22-25 Music Camp July 6-10 Centri-Kid July 20-24

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 4, January 29, 2009

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Anna Grace Eldridge 222 Dupree Dr Huntsville AL 35806-1006 Jackson Mucci 990 Heatherwood Dr SE Huntsville AL 35802-2638 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Roy & Pat Heifner in the loss of his step-brother, Lisa Andrews in the loss of her uncle, and Brittany, Bryan, and Brandon Andrews in the loss of their great-uncle, Wilmer Gray Sydni Martz in the loss of her father and Debbie & Allen Stephenson in the loss of her cousin, Michael Martz Mary & Tom Owen in the loss of her nephew and Tighe, Pam, Tighe Jr., and Callie Owen in the loss of their cousin, Lee Joiner

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Beth Fleming (Huntsville High PTSA), Howard and Dot Sanderford, and Laura Biggerstaff. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

A D U L T L E A D E R S I N U N I F O R M

This Sunday, FEBRUARY 1, is SCOUT SUNDAY! If you are a Brownie Scout, Girl Scout, Cub Scout, Boy Scout or Venture Crew member, help our church acknowledge your role in citizenship, leadership and Godliness in service. The recognition will be at the end of SANCTUARY WORSHIP this Sunday. Wear your uniform, and be prepared to hand out Worship of God bulletins at the Sanctuary entrances at 10:15 a.m.

Experienced Adults Mark Seanor, Minister to Senior Adults

Tuesday Evenings through April 14

6:00-7:30 p.m. - Christian Life Center Registration: $15

Call 428-9400 or visit www.fbchsv.org for more information.

* * * * *

Choose one of three easy ways to join….

E-mail Mark Seanor - [email protected]

Call the Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403

Or contact Kay Gover at 536-8317

2009-2010 Registration

“WEE” are making plans for the 2009-2010 school year. Registration for our Half Day Mother’s Morning Out and our Half Day Pre-school, PreK, and Kindergarten (we also have Full Day Kindergarten) is as follows: Registration begins on Monday, February 9, for WEE families; Wednesday, February 11, for FBC members; and Friday, February 13, for the general public. The WEE Ministry provides developmentally appropriate activities for infants (six weeks) through kindergarten in a loving, Christian environment. Need more information? Call 428-9440.

Come and join our family as we play, learn, and grow together.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, February 13, 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Speaker: Michael White Subject: Seeds

MENU: Lasagna, Green Salad, Dessert

Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107, for reservations.

A Week-day Volunteer Force known as Helping Hands needs your help. First Baptist Church has needs for volunteer helpers almost every week helping with the various ministries within our church from assisting in the church office with mail-outs to preparing worship guides. If you have some time during the week that you could give, if you like fellowshipping with other people, then this ministry is for you.

Kay Gover is our Team Leader

She would be delighted to talk with you and help you find a place to serve.

October 30, 2008


The preacher Greg Laurie once said, “Jesus did not command the whole world to go to church. Jesus commanded his church to go to the whole world.” God’s mission moves us beyond the walls of our own church. We are called to cross the street and to cross the globe to go to the whole world with the Good News of Jesus. This Sunday morning we will be talking about how we can “extend an arm” of the church into our community and around the world. This term

(“extend an arm”) comes from the early history of our church but has great meaning for our present and our future. The command of Jesus is an awesome task, isn’t it? The “whole world” is a big place. Frankly, it is more than we can do by ourselves. The mission of God requires us to cooperate with others who are on this same mission in different churches. We cannot go to the “whole world” as First Baptist Church. Joining hands with others, the whole world can be reached. On Sunday night we will live out this cooperative spirit in our worship experience. We will not meet in our regular place for Foundations. Instead we will be at the First Missionary Baptist Church on Blue Spring Road. The cooperative worship events between our two churches have enriched our lives for many years now. It is good for us to worship with our brothers and sisters at the other First Baptist Church in town. I greatly enjoy my friendship with Dr. Julius Scruggs, their Pastor, and I know that many of you look forward to this annual event at their church. If you have never attended, I invite you to join us for a very special worship service and fellowship time. I will be preaching and our Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra will be leading in worship. Jesus did command his church to go to the whole world. We will “extend an arm” to the “whole world” only if we join hands and hearts with other Christians in the common mission to which God has called us. Will you help us take another step in that direction this Sunday night?

Sunday, February 8 Message Series: “The Footprints Continue”

Sermon: “Extend an Arm” Matthew 28:18-20

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra Anthem:

Bear the News to Every Land —arr. Danner

Sunday Evening - 6:30 p.m. Joint Worship Service at

First Missionary Baptist Church Dr. Hull, preaching, music by

FBC Choir and Orchestra

Directions: From North Memorial Parkway,

turn west onto either Max Luther or Sparkman, then right onto Blue Spring.

Church will be a few blocks down on the left.

December 18, 2008 February 5, 2009

WEE 2009-2010 Registration

“WEE” are making plans for the 2009-2010 school year. Reg-istration for our Half Day Mother’s Morning Out and our Half Day Preschool, PreK, and Kindergarten (we also have Full Day Kindergarten) is as follows: Registration begins on Monday, February 9, for WEE families; Wednesday, February 11, for FBC members; and Friday, February 13, for the general public. The WEE Ministry provides developmentally appropri-ate activities for infants (six weeks) through kindergarten in a loving, Christian environment. Need more information? Call 428-9440. Come join our family as we play, learn, and grow together.

CANADA OR COLORADO MISSION 2009 MEETING Wednesday, February 11, 4:45 p.m.

Meet and eat in Room 140 St. Felix de Valois (Montreal, Quebec Area) or

Durango, Colorado Area — Bayfield/South Fork, Colorado July 14 - 28

Topics: Accommodations, Meals, Tasks, Sightseeing, etc.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, February 8 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM FBC Saxophone Ensemble/CR 12:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Joint Worship at First Missionary Baptist Church 6:30 PM Monday, February 9 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Roundtable/242 12:00 PM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers/342 7:00 PM Tuesday, February 10 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM HAP Brd Meeting/241 6:30 PM Wednesday, February 11 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Canada Missions/140 4:45 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Business Meeting Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM Young Adult Bible Study/107 8:00 PM Thursday, February 12 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM 50th Wedding Anniv. Celebration/FH 5:45 PM Friday, February 13 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Saturday, February 14 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern The Blue Spring Project Even though that subject line sounds like a military venture of some type, it only refers to the efforts of a couple of our Music Ministry groups in helping to lead a joint worship service at our sister church, First Missionary Baptist Church on Blue Spring Road. The date is Sunday evening, February 8. Our Sanctuary Choir and FBC Orchestra make an annual trek over to “Blue Spring” and share in a very special service, one in which our pastor brings the message, our musicians bring lots of special music, and the two congregations enjoy a hearty after-church fellowship. Thank you, choir and orchestra, for your extra efforts at making this evening so special and effective. Your presence means much! 4:00 pm (approximately)……Orchestra logistics crew loads stands and music at FBC, Travel to Blue Spring, and set up in the sanctuary 5:30 pm………………………….Orchestra rehearsal in the sanctuary 6:00 pm………………………….Choir rehearsal in the Choir Room there (singers, please be responsible for your own robe and music folder) 6:15 pm (approximately)………Pre-service mini-concert by our instrumentalists 6:30 pm………………………….Worship service begins The Youth Choir will rehearse at the regular time of 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 8, fyi.

In Concert Sunday, February 22

5:00 p.m. THE FBC ORCHESTRA

Plan to attend…..and invite others to join you. Our orchestra’s concerts these past few years have attracted wonderful crowds and represent yet another way for our church to reach out to the city. Who do you know that would enjoy hearing a first-rate church orchestra play exciting repertoire in our sanctuary? Invite them! The concert is free, with no offering collected. Music to be performed will include: Crown Imperial—Walton Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral—Wagner/Calliet Praise to the Lord, the Almighty—arr. Goeller Blessed Are They—Brahms plus……a beautiful hymn arrangement featuring Emily Parker, now a graduate assistant in instrumental music at Samford, on the euphonium and…..a reprise of last year’s feature piece, A Lincoln Portrait, by Aaron Copland, featuring Don Phelps as narrator. (Did you know that Abraham Lincoln was born the same year as our church, 1809?) Help spread the word! The Sanctuary Choir is off to a tremendous start to one of their big projects this anniversary year, a presentation of the Brahms Requiem in remembrance and celebration of 200 years of saints’ service in and through FBC, Huntsville. It is not too late to be a part of this incredible opportunity. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 7 pm (child care provided). The bonus rehearsal for February is this Thursday, February 5, starting at 6:30 pm. This special rehearsal will only be covering the music of Brahms and helps to allow singers from some of our sister churches to participate.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, February 11 Adults

Baked Spaghetti Tossed Salad

Garlic Roll - Dessert



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #17— February 1, 2009


This Week $69,577.43 YTD $1,631,031.06


ATTENDANCE Sunday, February 1, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 96 Children 142 Students 119 Adults 718 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 20 New Members 0 Visitors 34 TOTAL 1129

Worship Services

First Fellowship 331 Sanctuary Worship 805 TOTAL 1136

ADDITIONAL DAYS ADDED FOR STITCHING—SEWING—QUILTING!!

February Stitching!!

Come and Stitch and Fellowship with other women on Tuesday; February 10 and 24, as well as Thursday; February 12 and 26, at the Christian Life Center from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Please note that an evening time to stitch is being planned and will be announced later. Contact Janis Warman at 880-2058 or e-mail [email protected] if you are interested.


Parenting Tip Planning Consequences

When giving out consequences don't think JUSTICE, think HEART CHANGE. This one truth can change the way you discipline your kids. Many parents think, "Because you did this, you deserve that." That kind of justice mentality doesn't usually produce the desired results.

Consequences should not be viewed as a sentence for committing a "crime," but rather as motivation to bring about heart change. Consequences are tools to get a child's attention. They are preparation for significant discussions to address heart and character issues. Here are some suggestions for planning consequences:

The younger the child, the more immediate the consequence should be. "Because you keep running away, now you have to ride in the stroller."

As children get older, connect consequences logically to life. "Because you're not finishing your homework assignments, you'll have to get them checked each day by me." (Lack of responsibility requires greater accountability.) "Rachel, since you didn't listen to my warning, and you continued to be wild and broke the lamp, I'm going to have you earn the money to replace it." (When children are unresponsive to words of correction, they need to experience the negative consequences of their actions.)

Tie privilege and responsibility together. "Since you’re not sticking to the time limits we agreed upon, now you lose the privilege of playing on the computer for awhile." You might ask yourself, "What privilege is my child misusing?" to help determine the consequence. "Jim, because you left your bike out on the front lawn overnight, you're going to lose the privilege of riding it today. You know that if it gets stolen you won't have one to ride at all."

When possible, choose constructive consequences. "Because you continue to be mean to your brother, I want you to choose three ways to show kindness to him."

Determining consequences can be a challenge. Often it’s helpful to take time to plan and strategize for character development.

This tip comes from chapter four in the book Good and Angry: Exchanging Frustration for Character in You and Your Kids by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

Friday, March 6 - 6:00 PM at FBC

Featured Entertainment: Kyle Matthews Kyle is an incredible musician and songwriter (www.kylematthews.com)

Tickets: $20 per person Tables available for $200

Tickets available from February 8 - March 1

Spring Camp Registration is OPEN

$190 per student through February 18 (multi-family discount: deduct $20 per

additional student). After February 18, cost is $240 per person with no discounts.

A Parenting Discussion led by Jack and Amanda Ragland of The Vice Counseling Center, Inc.

Sunday, February 22, at 5:00 PM in the Student Big Room (309/310)

This discussion is the second of four being held quarterly.

For more information, contact Jamie Mackey.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 5, February 5, 2009.


PREVENTIVE HEALTH LIFESTYLE WELLNESS SEMINAR Led by Sue Godwin

“A preventive medicine that does not come in a bottle” seminar.

How to live healthy to eighty and beyond. Personal stewardship to the Lord includes our most precious possession, our bodies.

Christian stewardship is all about Jesus and how far we are willing to go to be an example for Him.

The first session will be Tuesday, February 17, at 10:15 a.m. following Seniorsize class in the CLC patio room.

The second session will be Tuesday, February 24, at the same time and place. If 15 or more sign up, there will be a reduction to $10 for the book that is offered. Men and women are encouraged to attend. Call the CLC at 428-9445 by February 8.

Blood Profiles Offered in February

The Recreation Ministry is teaming up with Huntsville Hospital again this year to bring you the opportunity to have a complete blood work-up administered at a greatly reduced price. The Executive Profile is $30, and the Executive Male Profile is $35 (which includes the PSA test). There is also a new test for Heart Disease available this year for an additional fee of $10. Cash and checks are accepted as payment (please make checks payable to First Baptist Church). Come to the Christian Life Center to register. Blood work forms, as well as maps to the participating labs, will be available starting February 1st. Lab work must be completed by February 28th.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Kaylyn Bugg 153 Honey Brook Dr Toney AL 35773-6976 Evan Willoughby 494 Brenda Dr Madison AL 35758-2800 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Gene & Ellen Bailes in the loss of his mother, Lorene Bailes Ann Brazelton in the loss of her nephew, Stephen Fann OUR NEWEST Graham John Bailey, son of John & Laurel Graham Bailey, 131 Compass Point Drive, Madison, AL 35758, born January 27, 2009. Proud grandparents are Jerry and Charlene Graham.

Thanks A thank you note has been received from Mickey Murphy. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

Friday, February 13, 10:00 a.m. Fellowship Hall

Speaker: Michael White Subject: Seeds

Menu: Lasagna, Green Salad, Dessert Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107, for

reservations

DEACON BANQUET

The annual FBC Deacon Banquet for all ordained deacons and ministers and their spouses is Thursday, February 26, in the Fellowship Hall.

The evening is a time of fellowship for all deacons, those who are currently active as well as those who are inactive. We encourage you to be a part of this special evening featuring a special guest musician.

If your address is not on file in the church office please contact Susan Williams at 428-9400 or [email protected], so that we may send you an invitation.

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor Last Sunday we talked about how our church has always followed the command to “Go” and has “extended an arm of the body” to share the Good News with people who are outside the fellowship of our church. Missions has been at the heart of who First Baptist Church has always been. It is a part of our DNA. The best way for the footprints of missions to

continue for the next century is to provide opportunities for young people to be on mission. Missions education is a very important part of a person’s faith development. However, going on mission is much more life-changing than just talking about mission. An experience is deeper than just knowledge. This summer our Student Ministry is taking a big step and is going on an international missions trip. A group of 21 students and 9 adults will be traveling to Pecs, Hungary to work with missionaries Glen and Clista Adkins as they minister to the Roma (Gypsy) people in Hungary. Remember that Clista was a child in our church and was baptized in our church. Her first missions education came from our church. Now she can be a part of teaching a future generation of missionaries! It looks like a case of “the footprints continuing” doesn’t it? I am very excited for our youth and their leaders who will be going on this trip. My family traveled to Pecs, Hungary during our sabbatical last summer and saw the work of Glen and Clista. Our church has already given financial support to help the Gypsy Choir that Glen formed to travel to the Baptist World Youth Congress last summer to sing. Our prayerful support for these missionaries will continue as the youth travel to help them this summer. A trip of this nature is costly. Various streams of funding will be going into this opportunity. You have a chance to help us “extend an arm” all the way to Hungary. On March 6 we will have a fundraiser that will be a dinner and concert. Kyle Matthews is the guest artist. I have known Kyle since his college days. He has brought his outstanding songwriting, singing and piano playing to various churches that I have served in the past. I love to hear him sing. You will as well. I hope that you will join me for a wonderful evening that will be a blessing for you, for our students, and ultimately for Gypsy students in another land. That sounds like a good way to “extend an arm of the body” don’t you think?

Sunday, February 15

Sermon: “You Are the Light of the World” John 8:12 and Matthew 5:14-16



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music: Sanctuary Choir Anthem

Festival Piece on St. Anne Solo Handbells by Jim Rogers

Amazing Grace

Ladies’ Luncheon - 11:45 a.m. Fellowship Hall


FOUNDATIONS “The Footprints Begin”

A Study of the Book of Acts “The Conversion of Paul”

Acts 9:1-31


In Concert Sunday, February 22

5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary The FBC Orchestra

Ministry Calendar Sunday, February 15 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Ladies’ Luncheon/FH 11:45 AM “Serving The City” Tng/CLC 1:00 PM Stephen Ministry 3:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR & Sanct 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations - “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts/FH Monday, February 16 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, February 17 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Roundtable/118 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, February 18 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Missions Strat. Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 7:00 PM Thursday, February 19 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM “Moms of Preschoolers”/Off Site 6:00 PM Friday, February 20 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Builders “A” SS Supper/118 6:00 PM Saturday, February 21 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM H’ville Music Study Club Festival 8:30 AM

—— SAVE THIS DATE —— Langley Golf Tournament

Friday, May 29

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Serving the City – Saturday, April 18 These are hectic days for Serving the City coordinators as we are planning all the projects for this year. Some of our Serving the City First Baptist team met with the new hub leadership at Madison First Church of the Nazarene this last week. They are so excited to be working as a hub and are doing a great job in getting ready for the April 18 service day for the Madison churches. I believe they will have about 90% of their active church members working on Serving the City. I would love to see 90% of our active church members involved. We have set the goal of 700 volunteers working from our church. That means every Sunday School group and every mission group in our church will need to work hard to get their members involved. There also will be many who are not involved in Sunday School that will need to volunteer. Our sign-up days will be every Sunday in March. Watch for details on how you can be a part of Serving the City. Volunteer Opportunity Friends, Inc. will host a volunteer training on Wednesday, February 18th, noon -1:30 Friends, Inc. is a volunteer organization that helps people in very practical ways. They provide transportation to medical and cancer treatment appointments, make friendly visits and phone calls to people who need companionship and emotional support, run errands, such as grocery shopping and prescription pick-up. The only requirement is the desire to help others. A variety of opportunities are available to meet each volunteer's availability and interests. If you would like to help or need more information, contact: 534-4079.

FOOTPRINTS FROM THE PAST

WE SHOULD ALL WELL-REMEMBER BESSIE SPRAGINS FBC old-timers will remember Bessie Pettus Spragins (1897-1980), who ought to be well-remembered by us all at our 200th birthday. She was christened Ruth Elizabeth Pettus but was affectionately known as Bessie. Our good-but-not perfect records don’t indicate when she joined the church, but she was in the mainstream by 1910, when she became at age 13 the assistant to Beulah Ware, Sunday School pianist. She was the daughter of Richard E. Pettus, an FBC and Madison Baptist Association stalwart who wrote the association’s first his-tory and who served two terms as president of the Alabama Baptist State Conven-tion. (After her father’s death in 1929, Bessie inherited all of his records and eventu-ally delivered them to Samford University and First Baptist, making a matter of re-cord much of our otherwise murky past.) Unmarried to age 52, Bessie’s lasting claim to fame was in the realms of music and history. She organized and served as president of the Huntsville Music Appreciation Group. Also, she was president of the Huntsville Forever Young Music Group. She, like Miss Beulah, was pianist for the city Kiwanis Club for years. In 1976 Bessie was chosen for the Virginia Hammill Simms Memorial Award for outstanding contribution to the arts in Huntsville. She was an important writer, providing portions of the city’s sesquicentennial book in 1955 and the Spragins family history published by her husband, William E. Spragins, in 1956. She was FBC historian for many years and was chair of the church’s 150th birthday celebration. She wrote the Beulah Ware story when Miss Beulah’s 60 years as organist was celebrated in 1961 and the present organ was named for her. Bessie recorded her family’s connections to First Baptist from 1836, her husband’s from 1819. She died in 1980 in her 83rd year and was buried beside her husband in Maple Hill Cemetery. Her gravestone gives only the date of death. Was she perhaps sensitive about her age? (By Jim Harrison/Joe Jones, History Committee)

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Blood Profiles Offered in February The Recreation Ministry is teaming up with Huntsville Hospital again this year to bring you the opportunity to have a complete blood work-up administered at a greatly reduced price. The Executive Profile is $30, and the Executive Male Profile is $35 (which includes the PSA test). There is also a new test for Heart Disease available this year for an additional fee of $10. Cash and checks are accepted as payment (please make checks payable to “First Baptist Church”). Come to the Christian Life Center to register. Blood work forms, as well as maps to the participating labs, are available at the front counter throughout the month of February. *Lab work must be completed by February 28th. If you have any questions, please call 428-9445.

Water Coloring with Pastels Class Would you like to learn how to use pastels in card-making or scrapbooking? This new class will teach you how to use pastels as a tool for water coloring. Plus, you will make a card featuring the new

technique that you can send to a family member or friend. The class will be held on Friday, February 27 at 6:30 p.m. at the CLC. Cost is $5. Please contact Toni Cassidy to RSVP, [email protected] or 828-9992.

FYI Menu

Wednesday, February 18 Adults

Chicken Fingers Baked Beans - Potatoes—Dessert

Salad

Fried Chicken Salad (Reservations for salad must be turned



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #19 - February 8, 2009


This Week $85,218.78 YTD $1,716,249.84


ATTENDANCE February 8, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 98 Children 133 Students 118 Adults 701 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 24 New Members — Visitors 23 TOTAL 1097 Worship Attendance First Fellowship 296 Sanctuary Worship 756 TOTAL 1052

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Thursday Evening, February 26

6:00 p.m. - CLC Bring a covered dish.

Contact: Myra Haythorn, 837-3107.

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children MAKE GOD REAL TO YOUR KIDS - Karyn Henley interview by Ron R. Lee

We all want to make God's love and care real to our kids, but it can be a challenge. We sit Jimmy down to hear a Bible lesson only to find that he's more interested in poking his brother and tipping his chair back on two legs—before falling over. Even when no stitches are required, it's frustrating. Many of us feel we're not doing that great a job at the most important task facing Christian parents. But before you don sackcloth and ashes, consider the hands-on approach advocated by child-education specialist Karyn Henley. "Kids can learn from the direct teaching approach," she says, "but they really learn better in other ways." How can we make our children's spiritual development a more natural part of family life? We often think of family devotions as everyone sitting down together to read the Bible and pray. But with young children, family devotions don't have to involve reading anything. Children 5 and under learn best by moving around and touching things. So if your kids are preschool age, do something active for family devotions. (See "Devotions Preschoolers Will Love" at right.) What else works with young children? Talking is a natural way to connect. You don't have to talk about Jesus every moment, but you should be modeling Christian values. You do that in the daily routines of family life—washing clothes or cleaning up spills. When you serve your family, you are modeling part of what it means to have a Christ like character. But do kids realize that when Mom cleans up a mess, she's demonstrating a Christ like spirit? They won't make the connection, but you can. Just say, "I'm being a helper. And sometimes you help me. Those are things that God likes us to do." But even when you're not talking about it, you are building into your child's life a picture of how Christian faith is lived out. And your life speaks louder than any words you'll say. If he sees you read your Bible regularly, one day he'll sit down with a book. He might be holding it upside-down, but he's pretending to read his Bible. When we encounter a "teachable moment" in our child's life, how can we make full use of the opportunity? The best way is to use Jesus' method, which involves connecting a truth with the listener's experience. Identify one of your child's experiences, verbally connect the truth to that experience, then challenge the child to think about God. For the entire article check out: http://www.christianitytoday.com/childrensministry/articles/cpt_1999.9g3.9g3044.html

2009 Report

Thank you, First Baptist Church, for donating $1,423.00 to the Souper Bowl of Caring on February 1. The food ministries of the Huntsville Assistance Program (HAP) and the Downtown Rescue Mission benefited from your generosity. Souper Bowl of Caring is a national event that has raised over $3.3 million dollars this year with over 6,500 churches and groups participating.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 6, February 12, 2009.


50th Wedding Celebration Thursday, February 12th

5:45 p.m. - Fellowship Hall

Save these Dates April 23, 2009

Monte Sano State Park Lodge

Dr. Fisher Humphries In an

Experienced Adult Sunday School Retreat “I Have Called You Friends”

May 14-19th – Spring Trip to Washington D.C. June 1st – Sunday School Fish Fry

Every Monday – Hallelujah Choir Second Friday – Fellowship Club

Mark’s Thoughts: From time to time in my personal Bible Study I will take a word or question and begin looking up scriptures that answer that question or define that word. This month I have been asking the question WHO AM I? Below are just a few of the scriptures that answer this question. Matt. 5:13 I am the salt of the earth. John 1:12 I am a child of God (part of His family). Matt. 5:14 I am the light of the world. John 15:15 I am Christ's friend. Acts 1:8 I am personal witness of Christ for Christ 2 Cor. 5:17 I am a new creation (new person) This week my question to you is “What are YOU studying and what is God teaching YOU through His word?” (2 Tim. 2:15)

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member Jean Cannon Family and friends of our member, Aileen Halcomb, especially to her son, Daniel Halcomb Linda Nowlin in the loss of her aunt, Cindy & Mark Russell in the loss of her great-aunt, and Katherine, Matthew, and John Mark Russell in the loss of their great-great aunt, Hazel Phillips Charlene & Henry Hill in the loss of her brother-in-law, Alan & Culise Hill in the loss of his uncle, and Courtney and Cole Hill in the loss of their great-uncle, Billy Stephenson

THANKS

A thank you note has been received from Laquita Powers. This has been posted on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Our next meeting is February 23rd in Room 118 at 9:00 a.m. Moppets (care for your child) is available by calling 428-9411 no later than February 16. We had a wonderful time at our first meeting and hope that you will join us for this meeting. Our MOPS group is open to anyone with a preschool child; you do not have to be a member of First Baptist Church!

MEN’S BARBERSHOP SINGING

Men of the church are invited to come join the fun and fellowship of men’s barbershop singing every Tuesday night in Room 108, 7:00-9:00 p.m. We sing love ballads, patriotic, and gospel music. Previous music experience and knowledge NOT a requirement. Willingness to fellowship, learn music, and have fun singing IS.

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor I was in Third Grade when I started taking violin lessons. Using a violin that my father had played for many years, I started by taking violin in my grade school. Later that turned into private lessons at the University of Louisville and participation in my junior high orchestra and in a county-wide youth orchestra. I played for about ten years until I was in high school.

Not only did I play, but I have fond memories of elementary school field trips to the “Making Music Concerts” sponsored by the Louisville Symphony Orchestra. Thousands of school kids from the Louisville area were treated to time away from school to go hear our local symphony. I enjoyed the break from school, but this fledgling violin player was also amazed at the sounds that I heard from the symphony. Finally, my family would attend the Louisville Symphony from time to time. I remembered the ornate beauty of the concert hall and the splendor of the music. Some of my teachers played in the symphony, and I watched them closely as they performed on the large stage. I feel very fortunate that I grew up with the opportunity to love and appreciate great music. Such a background has given me a lifetime of enjoyment and blessing from the music of great orchestras. First Baptist Church has one of the finest church orchestras that you will find anywhere. This Sunday night they will be in concert at 5:00 p.m. in our Sanctuary. I encourage you to invite someone to join you for that concert. You might invite someone like me (when I was 10) who is a beginning musician that would love to hear the sounds of an orchestra. Many children do not have such an opportunity these days. Or you might invite someone like me (when I am an adult) who has developed a long-time appreciation for great orchestral music. You know people like this in our community. Will you bring them with you to the orchestra concert this Sunday night? And what does all of this have to do with God? This concert, while not a worship service, will be a doorway into the life and ministry of our church. Some people will enter the doorway propped open by music before they will come to anything else. If I was not involved in a church, I might be open to hearing the good music of an orchestra. You see, I was just brought up that way. You never know who else might be just like that!

Sunday Morning, February 22 Sermon:

“Enlarge the Place of Thy Dwelling” Isaiah 54:2-3


Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Music: Sanctuary Choir, Men’s Ensemble, and FBC Orchestra


Sunday Evening

Friday, March 6—6:00 PM

Featured Entertainment: Kyle Matthews Kyle is a gifted pianist, singer, and songwriter.

Tickets: $20 per person / Tables—$200

Ministry Calendar Sunday, February 22 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM MOPS Set-up/118 10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM FBC Saxophone Ensemble Reh/Sanct 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Riding the Roller Coaster/309-310 5:00 PM Youth Choir/CR & Sanct 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM FBC Orch Concert/Sanct 5:00 PM Student Fun Night 6:00 PM Monday, February 23 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM\ MOPS/118 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers/342 7:00 PM Tuesday, February 24 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, February 25 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 7:00 PM Thursday, February 26 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Deacon Banquet/FH 6:30 PM Friday, February 27 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Fellowship Club Day Trip 11:00 AM-3:00 PM Sullivan/Frady Wedding Reh,Chapel 6:00 PM Saturday, February 28 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM Michael Cox Anthem Reh/Sanct 9:00 AM Sullivan/Frady Wedding/Chapel 11:00 AM

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern IN CONCERT….. Our own FBC Orchestra This Sunday, February 22, 5:00 pm A wonderful opportunity to invite friends from the community!

Run the Race with Perseverance ……is the title of the anthem our church has commissioned in celebration of the FBC Bicentennial this year. It will be premiered on Sunday morning, March 1, by our Sanctuary Choir and orchestra. Composed by Dr. Michael Cox of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, the piece has become a favorite of our singers and players already. They love it! Both groups are so looking forward to presenting this inspired music as an act of worship on March 1. Many in the FBC family will remember Dr. Cox from Deo Gratias, a tremendous work which we presented here just a few years ago in a Spring feature entitled “Songs of Thanksgiving.” This gracious and humble musician will be our special guest the weekend of March 1, working with our musicians on Saturday morning, February 28, in preparation for worship on Sunday. He will also play the piano during worship that morning. Here are the scripture passages that have been set to music in “Run the Race with Perseverance”: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. And I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ throughout all generations, forever and ever and ever! Amen!” These words from Hebrews 12 and Ephesians 3 will be an incredible expression in worship on March 1. Join us in thankfulness for the power and truth in these words, for the giftedness of the composer who set them to NEW music, and for the efforts of choir and orchestra members who have prepared this challenging new anthem to the glory of God.

Bicentennial Celebration Weekend of Events June 12 - 14, 2009

Save these dates!

Friday Evening, June 12 Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion Events begin - CLC

Saturday Morning, June 13 Rehearsal of Reunion Choir in preparation for Sunday morning worship.

Saturday Evening, June 13 Bicentennial Homecoming Dinner

Von Braun Center

(Reservations required)

Sunday, June 14

Homecoming Sunday Worship Service

Followed by Dinner on the Grounds


Invitations for June 13 and June 14 dinners will be mailed May 18, 2009.

Continue to look for upcoming and updated information at First Baptist web site – fbchsv.org

DO YOU HAVE YOUR BICENTENNIAL CAR STICKER? Pick up one, two, or more today.

They are available in the Welcome Center, Fellowship Hall, and the Church Office.

NORTH AMERICAN MISSIONS

WEEK OF PRAYER

Tuesday, March 3 10:00 a.m. - Room 118

Speaker:

Ed Ables, Hispanic Worker In Northeast Alabama

Bring a salad to share for

lunch.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Are you looking for a new way to meet Church members? The Sunday Morning greeters are looking for volun-teers to greet members at the doors from 8:45 until 9:10 a.m. If you are interested in either volun-teering every Sunday or as a substitute, please con-tact Toni Morgan (880-1544).

S u n d a y S c h o o l R e t r e a t

“I Have Called You Friends”

Thursday, April 23 Monte Sano State Park Lodge

Led by

Dr. Fisher Humphries


FYI

Menu Wednesday, February 25

Adults

Pot Roast and Gravy Mashed Potatoes

Green Peas Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT NOT AVAILABLE

DUE TO BANK HOLIDAY

ATTENDANCE February 15, 2009

Sunday School


Thanks Thank you notes have been received from “Our Place,” Gene & Ellen Bailes, Ann Brazelton, Ann Vines, Claudell Cummings, Judy Green, Keith & Suzanne Hefner, and Rebecca & Daniel Dean. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Thursday Evening, February 26

6:00 p.m. - CLC Bring a covered dish.

Contact: Myra Haythorn, 837-3107.


Seniors Still in Service The word “retirement” isn’t in the Bible, at least not in the sense that we ever retire from serving God and others. Seniors who’ve had active lives may want to relax a bit during their retirement years, but continuing in ministry—even just a day or two each month, will help them realize that God still wants what they have to offer. Here are 25 ideas for “senior service” to get you started: 1. Adopt a “grandchild.” 2. Volunteer at a crisis pregnancy center. 3. Help young business entrepreneurs. 4. Provide childcare for MOPS or other young mothers’ programs. 5. Plant flowers in working neighbors’ yards (with their permission, of course). 6. Visit nursing home patients. 7. Volunteer to work at a church camp. 8. Watch a single mom’s kids while she goes grocery shopping. 9. Serve meals at a homeless shelter. 10. Be a prayer partner, or volunteer to coordinate a prayer chain. 11. Teach English as a second language (ESL). 12. Do odd jobs for a neighbor. 13. Collect or distribute food at a local food bank. 14. Volunteer at the humane society. 15. Work on a Habitat for Humanity home. 16. Deliver Meals on Wheels. 17. Teach crafts, music, or another skill. 18. Serve as a hospital volunteer. 19. Help with a community cleanup project. 20. Coach Little League or a kids’ soccer team. 21. Work at a blood drive or flu shot clinic. 22. Serve as an election judge. 23. Provide meals for families with new babies. 24. Deliver prescription medicines to shut-ins. 25. Help a mission or nonprofit organization do mailings. (These ideas were originally published in Rev! magazine, and this is just one of the thousands of articles available to members of Church Volunteer Central in their Idea Depot.) Yes, you are reading the Preschool Ministry article! There are so many ways that Experienced Adults can lead by example with our young families. Within this list are many ministry opportunities that are found in our church. And the opposite is also true, young families can mean a lot to our experienced adults. Some of these ideas can be “tweaked” to serve those who have served many before and are now finding that they need some help with daily life. Look for ways to help those around you whether you are young or experienced and serve them with God’ love.

MOPS for March Reservation deadline for new children for MOPPETS – March 16 MOPS meeting – March 23, 9 – 11 a.m., Room 118 Speaker: Amanda Ragland

Spring Camp Registration is OPEN

$190 per student through February 18 (multi-family discount: deduct $20 per

additional student). After February 18, cost is $240 per person with no discounts.

We have 21 students and 9 adults committed to serving in Pecs, Hungary this July for 12 days.

Ways you can support this FBCHSV mission team: 1. Pray for them—prayer partners will soon be enlisted 2. Support them—attend the Dinner & Concert on March 6

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 7, February 19, 2009


Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Megan Sheehy 237 Misty Cove Ct New Market AL 35761-7645 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Vernon & Beth Bice in the loss of his uncles; Gena & William Black in the loss of her uncles; and Libby, Cappy, and Tabitha Bice and Audrey Black in the loss of their great-uncles, Ralph Kelly and Alvin Bice Dean & Lara Daugherty in the loss of his grandfather and Kristen and Justin Daugherty in the loss of their great-grandfather, Bill Daugherty John & Kathy Latimer in the loss of his mother and Sara Latimer in the loss of her grandmother, Winnie Latimer Family and friends of our member Lottie Thornton, especially to her daughter, Lisa & Mark Congo, and her grandchildren, Ray, Jessica, and Cody Congo Cathy & Barton Warren in the loss of her aunt and Wilson and Beeson Warren in the loss of their great-aunt, Elizabeth Richardson Lenora Weakley in the loss of her sister and Libby & Jim Whisenant in the loss of her aunt, Doranelle Marable Woody & Linda Williams in the loss of his cousin, Juanita Perkins in the loss of her cousin, Teresa & Jim Covington in the loss of her uncle, and Christy and Alan Covington in the loss of their great-uncle, Joel Brown

REMINDER

Blood Profile Forms may be picked up at the CLC. Lab work must be completed before February 28.

Bicentennial Celebration Weekend of Events June 12 - 14, 2009

Save these dates!

Friday Evening, June 12 Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion Events begin - CLC

Saturday Morning, June 13 Rehearsal of Reunion Choir in preparation for Sunday morning worship.

Saturday Evening, June 13 Bicentennial Homecoming Dinner

Von Braun Center


Sunday, June 14

Homecoming Sunday Worship Service

Followed by Dinner on the Grounds


Invitations for June 13 and June 14 dinners will be mailed May 18, 2009.

Continue to look for upcoming and updated information at First Baptist web site – fbchsv.org

DO YOU HAVE YOUR BICENTENNIAL CAR STICKER? Pick up one, two, or more today.

They are available in the Welcome Center, Fellowship Hall, and the Church Office.

NORTH AMERICAN MISSIONS

WEEK OF PRAYER

Tuesday, March 3 10:00 a.m. - Room 118

Speaker:

Ed Ables, Hispanic Worker In Northeast Alabama

Bring a salad to share for

lunch.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Are you looking for a new way to meet Church members? The Sunday Morning greeters are looking for volun-teers to greet members at the doors from 8:45 until 9:10 a.m. If you are interested in either volun-teering every Sunday or as a substitute, please con-tact Toni Morgan (880-1544).

S u n d a y S c h o o l R e t r e a t


Thursday, April 23 Monte Sano State Park Lodge

Led by

Dr. Fisher Humphries

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Lent is the season in which we prepare for the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time of repentance and reflection. It is a spiritual emphasis to focus on the sacrifice

of Christ and the hope for our lives. On Sunday mornings during Lent we will listen to the phrases from our Bicentennial theme verses (Hebrews 12:1-2) and see how we can be “Running the Race that God has Won.” (With special thanks to singer/songwriter D. E. Adams whose song inspired the series title.) Each phrase from this great passage of Scripture will take us to other places in the Bible where we can explore these themes. My hope is that this biblical journey will deepen our faith as we move through this holy season. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we worship together. March 1 - “Patient Perseverance” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us” March 8 - “Extra Baggage” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely “ March 15 - “Looking to Jesus” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” March 22 - “Begin at the End” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “who for the sake of the joy that was set before him” March 29 - “At the Cross” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “endured the cross, disregarding its shame” April 5 - “Seated at the Right Hand” - Hebrews 12:1-2 “and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.” Palm Sunday

Sunday, March 1, 2009 New Message Series:

“Running the Race that God has Won” Hebrews 12:1-2

Sunday’s Sermon: “Patient Perseverance” “ ...let us run with perseverance

the race that is set before us”



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music: “Run the Race with Perseverance”

Composed by Dr. Michael Cox of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, this commissioned piece will be premiered by our Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra. Many in the FBC family will remember Dr. Cox from Deo Gratias, a tremendous work presented here just a few years ago in a Spring feature entitled “Songs of Thanksgiving.” This gracious and humble musician will be our special guest this weekend, working with our musicians on Saturday morning in preparation for worship on Sunday. He will also play the piano during worship.

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Youth Choir

5:00 p.m. - FOUNDATIONS Fellowship Hall

“The Conversion of Peter” - Acts 9:32-12:25


NORTH AMERICAN MISSIONS WEEK OF PRAYER Tuesday, March 3

10:00 a.m. - Room 118 Speaker: Ed Ables, Hispanic Worker

in Northeast Alabama Bring a salad to share for lunch.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, March 1 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM RA Racers/CLC 9:00 AM—5:00 PM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR & Sanct 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations - “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts/FH Monday, March 2 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Deacons Meeting/118 6:00 PM Tuesday, March 3 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Week of Prayer/118 10:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, March 4 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Discipleship Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Missions Strategy Workgroup/Parlor 5:30 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 7:00 PM Saxophone Ensemble Reh/Sanct 7:30 PM Thursday, March 5 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, March 6 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Student Mission Dinner/Concert/FH 6:00 PM Saturday, March 7 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM N. Ala Young Ringers/Off Campus 8:00 AM Requiem Choir Reh/CR 10:00 AM

—— SAVE THIS DATE —— Langley Golf Tournament

Friday, May 29

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach

Serving the City as ONE – Sign-Up Sundays First Baptist Goal – 700 volunteers

Sign-Up Sundays - ALL the Sundays in March Sign-Up Brochures available Sunday, March 1

Beginning March 1 the sign-up brochure for Serving the City will be available in Sunday School Departments and Classes, at the Welcome Centers, in the office, and passed out in the worship times. We encourage you to sign up as Sunday School classes or departments, groups throughout the church, families, or individuals. If you do sign up as some group for a project we do ask that you turn in individual sign-up brochures for each person involved. We must know the number of people involved to plan appropriately. If you have questions be sure to contact Rodger Keene or Andy Crocker for more information.

Service Day – Saturday, April 18


RALPH LANGLEY SALUTES AN ALL-TIME FBC HERO In our upcoming mid-June bicentennial events, all four of the living ex-pastors of First Baptist are scheduled to attend, and speak. The only one now living in Huntsville, Ralph Langley, last fall had occasion to visit with another predecessor pastor, now living in Atlanta. We invited him to tell you about J. T. Ford. -- Joe Jones, Historian I recently visited with one of my all-time pulpit HEROES---J. T. Ford. He became pastor of FBC in March of 1949. He was only 29. From the start he preached to overflow crowds ---SRO (Standing Room Only)---Sunday after Sunday. He enlarged the worship space. And even utilized the nearby hotel (Russell Erskine) and turned the hotel bar into a men’s Sunday School. And he borrowed public school space. He led to Christ a prominent business leader. And the next Sunday six more town leaders came for baptism (four of whom would become deacons). Ford’s staff consisted of a custodian and a part-time secretary, a volunteer choir director, and an organist. He reorganized the Sunday School and Training Union. He instituted a UNIFIED BUDGET. He began a fully graded music program. He built an education building and initi-ated rotation of deacons. He started an early morning worship service. After just less than four years here, the Fords were called to FBC – Birmingham. But they left this church with a VISION and a FAITH for the future. So---we say “Thanks be unto God” for those four great years of 1949 to 1953. And we rejoice that they have lived to this hour to see that so much of their work is still being blessed of God. Welcome them back this June on the 200th Birthday! (By Ralph Langley)

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Here’s an opportunity to get out of the house on a Friday night for some FREE fun! We’ll have many activities available at the CLC, including:

—pick-up basketball & volleyball (for middle school to adult) —table games (ping pong, pool, air hockey, foosball) —board games – bring your favorite one! —young children’s room —popcorn, snacks, and drinks —and fun!

No reservations necessary. We’ll see you April 3rd!

FYI Menu

Wednesday, March 4

Adults Chicken Cordon Blue

Broccoli/Cheese/Rice Casserole Congealed Cranberry Salad

Roll - Dessert

Salad Fried Chicken Salad


Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week #20 – February 15, 2009 Year-to-Date Goal: $1,818,945.00 Offering:

This Week $45,111.65 YTD $1,761,361.49


Week #21 - February 22, 2009


This Week $43,947.94 YTD $1,805,309.43


ATTENDANCE

February 22, 2009

Sunday School Preschool 90 Children 145 Students 119 Adults 674 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 26 New Members - - Visitors 29 TOTAL 1083

Worship Attendance First Fellowship 327 Sanctuary Worship 748 TOTAL 1075

GREETERS NEEDED

Are you looking for a new way to meet Church members? The Sunday Morning greeters are looking for volunteers to greet members at the doors from 8:45 until 9:10 a.m. If you are interested in either volunteering every Sunday or as a substitute, please contact Toni Morgan (880-1544).

STAFF ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION

This Sunday we recognize Edna Zimmerman, our Part-time Church Receptionist on Thursdays and Fridays, for five years of service. Edna is the first person you talk to on the phone when you call the church office on those days. She is also the first person you see when you come through the door of

our church office. Edna is responsible for many different facets of ministry in the life of our church. She oversees the church calendar, handles all transportation requests, maintains our daily hospital list and assists with benevolence needs in the church office. Thank you, Edna, for being a welcoming and caring presence as you minister with us at First Baptist Church. We hope you will continue to share your gifts with us as part of our church staff for years to come.

DO YOU HAVE YOUR BICENTENNIAL CAR STICKER?

Pick up one,two,or more today. They are available in the Welcome Center, Fellowship Hall,

and the Church Office

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61 Number 8, February 26, 2009


This past week 67 couples came together for a celebration banquet in honor of their 50+ years of marriage. In preparation for this event, questions were asked of the couples as to what were the key ingredients that have made their marriage successful?

They said… …genuine love and faithfulness to your

marriage vows…”till death do us part” is a promise not an option.

…respect and love …honoring God and our wedding vows. …considerate of the other’s wishes and

supportive of what they want to do. …a personal relationship with God. …mutual love of church, music, gardening, travel and children. …Christianity. …love, family, Christian friends. …trust and dependence on God. …shared common values, united position where children were concerned, and

a commitment to our love and marriage. …faith in God, and a deep respect for each other. …patience and forgiveness. …love, commitment, unselfishness, tolerance of adverse or differing viewpoints,

and Christian faith. …love and respect for each other. …lot of give and take, forgiveness, and hard work.

According to our records, the longest-married couple at the banquet was Ellen & Ernie Hamilton who will be married 67 years come this September. Hilda & Jack Furman will be married 66 years this April, and Martha & Ralph Edfeldt celebrated 65 years the night of our banquet.

Sock Collection We're collecting SOCKS for 7,000 children living in Perry County and Alabama Foster Homes. Purchase your socks and place them in the Serving the City collection bins at church during the month of

March. Socks for boys and girls of all ages...including adult sizes for teens ...are needed

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Peter Sizemore 3216 Monarch Dr SW Huntsville AL 35801-3439 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Amanda Allen in the loss of her grandmother, Dorothy Allen Linda & Jerry Davis in the loss of her mother, Adeline Myers Peggi & Wood DeLeuil in the loss of her sister, Margaret Jones Michael & Beth Faulkner in the loss of his father and Brian, Kelly, and Lauren Faulkner in the loss of their grandfather, Troy Faulkner Eddie & Laurie Houk in the loss of his father and Anna and Clay Houk in the loss of their grandfather, Edward Houk Imogene Jackson and Frances McGuffie in the loss of their brother-in-law, James Lancaster Ann & Robert McMillan in the loss of her cousin, Gaynell Milam Family and friends of our member, Leona Rains OUR NEWEST Tanner Lee Webb, son of Lindsay and Kevin Webb, born February 16, 2009. Proud great-grandparents are Camille and Paul Lynch.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Joe and Betty Galey, Ed and Betty Pugh, Mary Lysaght, and Mac Halcomb. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


This issue of The Messenger contains an additional page that describes an upcoming

Called Business Meeting for our church. I suggest that you stop reading my thoughts and turn to that page now. Read it closely and then come back to this article. Leadership is often about making adjustments in the middle of the action. A coach has a game plan that needs to be changed at half-time because of the moves of the other team. A general has a battle plan that must be adjusted because of the advancements of the enemy. A pilot has a flight plan that is changed due to the approaching storm. Wisdom in leadership is knowing when to “stay the course” without wavering and when to adjust the plan to meet the current conditions. I am grateful for wonderful leaders in the life of our church. You will read in the “extra page” of this newsletter that we brought several groups together to discuss the course of action that we felt God is leading us to take as a church. Significant changes have occurred since a plan was approved on May 4, 2008. What should be our response? You will see how the Leadership Council, Trustees, and Finance Committee answered that question when they met last week. The Deacons affirmed this direction in their meeting this week. Now you will have an opportunity to enter into the discussion, to gain valuable information, and to cast your vote on the direction that we are to take in the future. I hope that you will join us for the Called Business Meeting on March 22 at 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. In the meantime I encourage you to pray. I know that you are already praying for the leaders of our country as they are faced with making important decisions for the future of our nation. Please pray for leaders in our church as we seek to follow the Will of God and to give leadership to the congregation in these uncertain days. With prayer, faith, and healthy conversation within the church I am convinced that God will lead us through these changing days and into a bright future of ministry and mission.

Sunday, March 8, 2009 New Message Series:


Sunday’s Sermon: “Extra Baggage”

“. . . Let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely . . .”

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from Youth Praise Band


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. The Sanctuary Choir, The Youth Choir,

and Amelia Lane, clarinet

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Youth Choir

5:00 p.m. - FOUNDATIONS Fellowship Hall

December 18, 2008 March 5, 2009

Fun things for the whole family!!

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS THIS WEEKEND. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour Saturday night.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, March 8 (Daylight Saving Time begins) First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR & Sanct 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations - “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts/FH Monday, March 9 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Roundtable/242 12:00 PM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, March 10 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Prescilla Shirer Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM HAP/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, March 11 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Meeting/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift-Off/309-310 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 7:00 PM Thursday, March 12 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, March 13 Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Saturday, March 14 Organ Rehearsal/Sanct 8:00 –10:00 AM Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM Bridal Tea/Parlor 9:00 AM Bicentennial Art Work/CLC 10:00-12:00 AM March 14—18 - Student Spring Camp

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern

March Dates to Note in the FBC Music Ministry Wednesday, March 4 Hallelujah Choir sings for Prayer Meeting Saturday, March 7 Rehearsal of the Brahms Requiem (10:00 am—Noon) (It’s not too late to get involved with this masterwork for the ages!) Sunday, March 8 Youth Choir sings for Sanctuary Worship Thursday, March 19 Organ Recital by Elizabeth Hostetter at 12:10 p.m. (Part of the AGO Lenten Series) Sunday, March 29 VOICES rehearsal at Athens FBC

Johannes Brahms…….A German Requiem…… Spring, 2009 A BICENTENNIAL PRESENTATION

In Remembrance, Thanksgiving, and Celebration of the saints who have served Christ during the 200 years of ministry

at FBC, Huntsville (1809-2009)

Sunday, May 3 - 5:00 pm Our Music Ministry is involved in one of the most significant musical challenges ever faced by FBC groups—presenting the Brahms Requiem! This masterpiece stretches our choir in numerous ways (vocally, musically, spiritually) as it calls for the very best we have to offer. We are at once excited and overwhelmed by the challenges contained in the pages of this demanding work. Rehearsals that began in January and February are continuing this month. Perhaps you are interested in being a part of this project, or perhaps you know of singers who might be. Come on! It is not too late to get involved! The core message of the work is that Sorrow will be turned to Joy. The scriptures that Brahms chose bear witness to this promise, and his incredible music expresses it with such power and beauty. Please join in prayerful support for those many who are immersing themselves in a project like this. Pray for their good vocal health, for the deepening of their spirit that will occur as they study and grow, and for the witness that will occur in our sanctuary on May 3 when this mighty presentation occurs!

Have you checked out our Facebook? MOPS-First Baptist Church Huntsville March 23 – Room 118, 9 – 11 a.m.

Deadline for MOPPETS is March 16. Call 428-9411 to reserve a spot for your preschooler. Guest Speaker: Amanda Ragland Recognizing Baby Blues and What to do About Them


FYI Menu

Wednesday, March 11

Adults Pork Tenderloin w/Gravy

Italian Green Beans Pineapple Casserole—Dessert




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 22 - March 1, 2009


This Week $54,316.72 YTD $1,859,626.15


ATTENDANCE March 1, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services First Fellowship 169 Sanctuary Worship 574 TOTAL 743 (Continued from first column) Mistake #3: Over stimulation in dreamland Mobiles, with their rotating toys, sound, and lights are too much of a distraction for babies. There are so many bright colors; it will keep them awake instead of teaching them that it is time to go to sleep. It's not just babies who may be over stimulated at bedtime. If older kids have lots of toys in the bed or other distractions, they may not be getting the shut-eye they need. Good habit: Keep it dark, and cut the action at nap time and nighttime. Infants and toddlers (who are too young to have developed nighttime fears) will sleep best in nearly pitch-black rooms. For babies to sleep well, on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the darkest, the room should be an 8 or 9. Use a fan or white noise machine to muffle any sounds from the street or the next room.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Common Sleep Mistakes Parents Make (excerpts from the ParentCenter Bulletin)

Getting young children to sleep — and stay asleep — is one of the most daunting tasks of parenthood. Even parents of "good" sleepers face nap time or bedtime struggles occasionally. In fact, up to 40 percent of children suffer from some sort of sleep problem.

Mistake#1: Putting children to bed too late Kids sleep less these days than their parents did growing up. By the time your whole family gets home, has dinner, does homework, and so on, sleep may become a forgotten priority. Or you might put off bedtime to avoid battles or in the hope that your child will crash, fall asleep without any intervention, and sleep in late. Good habit: Set regular bedtimes (and, if appropriate, nap times) and stick to them. And don't wait until your kid is rubbing his eyes, yawning, or whining — that's probably too late. Put him to bed earlier. Even 15 to 20 minutes of extra sleep can make a difference. While every child is different, babies and toddlers typically need 11 hours of sleep, preschoolers need up to 12 hours once they drop daytime naps, and older kids should get 10 to 11 hours. Figure out what time they need to be up in the morning and plan accordingly. Mistake #2: Relying on motion What parents haven't breathed a sigh of relief watching their baby snooze in an infant swing or doze in the backseat of the car? Often these wonderful moments occur when you least expect it — and most need a break. But some moms and dads fall into the trap of using motion to get their young kids to nap or fall asleep at night. If your child is always sleeping in motion, in strollers or cars, he probably doesn't get the deep, more restorative sleep due to the stimulation of motion. Good habit: Use motion for calming, not naps Before you throw a tantrum at the notion of giving up the musical swing, it’s okay to use motion to soothe a cranky child. But once your child has fallen asleep, cut off the swing or park the stroller. Guilt-free bonus: If you're taking a long car ride and your child slumbers, just sit back and enjoy the moments of silence. (Continued on next column.)

Sunday—March 8 6:00 PM during Youth Choir Snack Supper

Time to receive trip information, Q&A, Notarize Participant Form & relay information

Sunday—March 29 5:30 PM at the home of Jeremy, Chris & Patrick

Dickson

Can you hit the piñata?

We have 78 students signed up for Spring Camp. I am excited about the number that will travel to Laguna Beach on March 14-18. As the students count down the days to their anticipated break and trip, I ask that you pray for them and for the opportunities Spring Camp gives: • Pray for personal commitment to living their

life as a follower of Jesus Christ. Our theme is “Live Love” based on John 13:34-35 where Jesus gives us a new command to love one another.

• Pray for the strengthening of friendships among the students. Spiritual growth is much easier with strong Christian friendships.

• Pray for safety in travel and play. • Pray for our camp leadership. Speaker and

musician James Tealy and his band are coming for our worship times.

• Pray for the adults that are taking vacation time & time away from family to invest in the lives of our students.

Thank you for your continued support of our Student Ministry. FBC invests in its students! Jamie

Needed: Male adults willing to invest in the lives of students as a D-Group mentor. We have

students wanting to be in a small discipleship group. Commitment requirements—meet weekly with

students, lead them in study, and be their support.

For more info, contact Jamie Mackey.

CALLED BUSINESS MEETING ON MARCH 22, 6:00 P.M.

On May 4 of last year our church voted to move ahead with a facility ex-pansion and renovation project. Following that vote we continued to work on the details of the proposed plan and put in place a team to give leader-ship to a Capital Stewardship Campaign that would help us to raise the necessary funds for the building program. And then the global economy moved into a time of turmoil like we have not seen in many years. So now what? What should we do and where should we go considering that there have been many changes since our church decision on May 4? In November we decided to reschedule the Capital Stewardship Campaign from January, 2009 to the fall of 2009. We continued to work through design and pricing on the sanctuary television and audio portion of the work which was planned to begin before the CLC renovation. Mostly we were on hold — waiting, praying, and talking about what should be done next. Last week we had a combined meeting of the Leadership Council, Trus-tees, and Finance Committee. This large group put their heads together to formulate two recommendations that will be brought to the church. The Deacons later affirmed these two recommendations in their meeting on March 2. The church will meet in a Called Business Meeting on Sunday night, March 22, at 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall right after Foundations. The following recommendations will be considered:

This first recommendation acknowledges that the current economic situation will continue to be very detrimental to a successful campaign. While no one knows when to expect a more positive economic outlook, the combined leader-ship group felt that sometime in the year 2010 promises to be a much better time to move ahead with such a campaign. In addition to global economic challenges that confront all of us, new informa-tion has recently come to the Trustees and will be shared in the Called Business Meeting that will show why a possible delay is necessary to satisfy some city ordinances before we can proceed with the building program.

Recommendation #1

A combined gathering of the Leadership Council, Trustees and Finance Committee recommends that the church defer the Capital Stewardship Campaign to the year 2010.

This second recommendation acknowledges that the replacement of sanctu-ary television and audio equipment falls under capital maintenance require-ments and must be addressed even if we do not proceed at this time with the CLC renovation. Full information will be given at the meeting about the pro-posed equipment purchase. In the recommendation that was adopted on May 4, 2008, the following words were included: “The Leadership Council recommends that the church empower the Trus-tees to work in conjunction with the Audio Visual Ministry Team to proceed with the selection/purchasing/installation of audio and television equipment for the Sanctuary. Realizing that February, 2009 is the date for the digital conversion in broadcasting, we believe that it is wise to make our television changes to coincide with this timetable. Audio improvements can proceed as soon as contractual arrangements dictate. The church line of credit may be used in an amount not to exceed $800,000 for these transactions. Future funding from the Capital Stewardship Campaign will be used to pay off this short-term indebtedness.” A new recommendation returns to the church because the actual cost of the equipment is greater than the authorized amount and because the delay of the Capital Stewardship Campaign has created a new timetable for action. Please join us for this important Called Business Meeting on March 22 at 6:00 p.m. as we discuss future plans for the ministry of our church. In the meantime, pray that God will give us wisdom and guidance in the decisions that we will make.

Recommendation #2

A combined gathering of the Leadership Council, Trustees and Finance Committee recommends that the church approve the purchase and im-plementation of the sanctuary sound improvement program and the digital television conversion program as detailed in the attached proposals (to be distributed at the Called Business Meeting). It is recommended that the church fund these projects through the use of our existing line of credit not to exceed an amount of $850,000. Contingency funds for any overrun of these projects are recom-mended to be allocated from the Caldwell Estate of $55,000.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 9. March 5, 2009


LADIES’ FELLOWSHIPS March: Are you the mother of a preschooler? Do you have memories of life with a preschooler? If so, this event is for you! Friday, March 27: “ MOTHERLOAD” -- a new comedy at Merrimack Hall

5:30 p.m. Dinner at FBC 7:30 p.m. Show at Merrimack Hall Cost: $20 dinner and show; $15 show only Reservations with payment needed by Sunday, March 22. Contact Sherry Jarnagin in the Adult Ministry Office (428-9403; [email protected]).

April: For all FBC Women and Friends Tuesday, April 28 Ladies’ Day Trip to the Amish Country in Ethridge, Tennessee Mark the date. Watch for more info.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, March 13

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Musical Program Menu: Chicken & Dumplings, Green Peas, Pear Salad, Dessert

Call Myra Haythorn, 881-6997, for reservations.

ORGAN RECITAL

BY ELIZABETH HOSTETTER THURSDAY, MARCH 19

12:10 PM - FBC SANCTUARY Part of the AGO Lenten Series

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Ila Glaze, especially to her daughter, Anne & Bill Stone Former CWJC student, Julie Jones, in the loss of her daughter, Shannon Jones Family and friends of our member, Frances McGuffie, especially to her sister, Imogene Jackson OUR NEWEST Jake Carter Guffin, son of Shawn and Stephanie Guffin, 1167 Hollyhealth Lane, Charlotte, NC 28209, born February 19, 2009. Proud grandparents are Tom and Marilyn Guffin, and great-grandparents, Carter and Ethel Mitchell

THANKS Thank you notes have been received from Mickey Murphy, O.D. Street, and Wood Deleuil. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

The Hallelujah Choir invites you to

a coffee Monday, March 23, 2009 10:00 a.m. - Church Parlor

Following the coffee, you are invited to follow our happy group to listen and/or

sing with us in joyful song. It’s easy and fun to sing praises

to the Lord

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Three years ago last October our church began the worship service that we call First Fellowship. Meeting in the Fellowship Hall at 8:15 on Sunday mornings, this worship experience is done in a

more casual setting with the musical leadership of praise bands and is enhanced by visual projection on screens in the room. Each week about 300 to 400 people gather for worship in this setting. First Fellowship has become a significant part of the worship life of First Baptist Church. Musical leadership in this service is very important. Someone needs to recruit and rehearse the three praise bands that give leadership to worship. Music is selected that supports the theme of worship. We began with volunteers filling these leadership roles and last summer moved into staff leadership in this area as our Ministry Intern, Lee Deutschendorf, has been the worship leader. Knowing that Lee’s tenure as Ministry Intern will come to a close this summer, the Personnel Committee has been discussing what needs to happen for leadership in this service after July. A recommendation went from the Personnel Committee to the Quarterly Business Meeting in February to establish a Contemporary Worship Leader position that will give leadership to the music, media, and outreach elements in the First Fellowship worship service. After approval by the church, we are now ready to begin searching for the person that God has prepared for us. A Search Committee has been selected by the Personnel Committee to lead in this search. They will recommend a name to the Personnel Committee who will then bring the name to the church. Two members of the Personnel Committee are on the Search Committee. They are Keith Hefner, Chair of the Search Committee, and Johnnie Barnes. Five regular participants in First Fellowship were selected to serve as well. They are Wes Blake, John Dickson, Randy Taylor, Lisa Felder, and Kim Mims. Billy Orton and I will serve as ex officio members of the group. I am excited about the possibility to move ahead in searching for a leader who can help in the growth and development of the contemporary worship experience in our church. We ask for your prayers as we search and encourage any suggestions or recommendations that you would make to the committee. Speaking of worship . . . I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday. Our church is very blest to have two wonderful opportunities for worship each Sunday morning. Choose the service that is best for you (8:15 or 10:30) and come to offer your heart to God in worship.

Sunday, March 15, 2009 Message Series:


Sermon: “Looking to Jesus”

“….looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith…”

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from A2O


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem — Rescue the Perishing

Orchestra offertory— Wherever He Leads, I’ll Go (arr. Winkler)

Emily Parker, Euphonium Soloist Violin Solo by Janet Crawford—

I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - FOUNDATIONS

Fellowship Hall “The Missionary Journey of Paul”

Acts 15:36-21:14 (Jane Hull, Guest Teacher)

Organ Recital by Elizabeth Hostetter

Thursday, March 19 12:10-12:50 p.m. - FBC Sanctuary

Part of the American Guild of Organists Lenten Recital Series


Ministry Calendar

SPRING BREAK WEEK Sunday, March 15 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Boy Scout Comm/342 4:00 PM Foundations - “The Footprints Begin” 5:00 PM A Study of Acts/FH Monday, March 16 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Tuesday, March 17 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Wednesday, March 18 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Meeting/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Mission Strategy Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Personnel Committee/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, March 19 Organ Recital by Elizabeth Hostetter, 12:10 PM Part of the American Guild of Organists Lenten Recital Series/Sanct “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:00 PM Friday, March 20 Hoke-Baten Wedding/Chapel 7:00 PM Saturday, March 21 Organ Rehearsal/Sanct 8:00 –10:00 AM Student Spring Camp: March 16-20

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Easter Crosses for your Yard Last year we provided for you a wooden cross with the appropriate color sash to drape across the cross. We distributed over 400 crosses to place in yards during Holy Week leading up to Easter. On Sundays, March 22 and 29, we will have crosses available to those who did not get a cross or those who are new to our church this year. We had several reports about how the crosses helped heighten worship for families and individuals last year. We will provide a table at First Fellowship and a table in the east entrance so you may pick up your cross, the hardware, the sashes, and instructions for displaying the cross in your yard. We found that it is a beautiful witness and a reminder of the gift that God gave us through His Son.

Sign-Up Brochures and Donations This week we will continue to make available Serving the City sign-up brochures in each worship service. The earlier you sign up the

better for all the hard-working volunteers who have to process all this huge amount of data and make sure all projects are ready for the number of people that sign up for that project. Sunday School classes and departments have received the requested donations for many of the packing projects. Please plan to provide these donations to the best of your ability. Again, our volunteers spend hours preparing for each packing project and securing supplies that do not come in through the donation process. Thank you for your wonderful help with all donations. Please Note: We do need every person to fill out a sign-up brochure even if you have been assigned a project already. We need all this information as we work toward a goal of 700 volunteers from FBC.


MOSES NEECE -- HE GAVE US OUR CURRENT NAME In our anniversary reflections we’ve made much ado about Beulah Neece Ware and her unprecedented service of sixty years as organist of First Baptist, saying virtually nothing of the parents in whose footsteps she followed. Moses Neece joined the church through baptism in 1875 and a year later accepted a role in raising funds for the church. Another year passed and, in 1877, he was named church clerk, a position he held for quarter of a century. Both Moses and his wife, Willie Cornelia Miller Neece, sang in the choir and held prominent roles in most phases of church life. She taught a young ladies Sunday School class for many years, and was a leader in the Ladies Aid Society which became in 1907 the Woman’s Missionary Union; she served as president of that organization from 1899 to her death in 1912. In 1892 Enon Baptist Church named Moses as treasurer of a fund to build a new meeting house. In this capacity he rose in a business meeting in August 1893 and moved that Enon change its name to Huntsville First Baptist. It was unanimously approved. His drive and that of others to build a new church house (the Gothic Church) was successful; he was a leading speaker in the laying of the cornerstone August 11, 1894. He held many other positions, including chairman of deacons. He was allotted, as president of the BYPU (Baptist Young Peoples Union), a half hour on the program in 1909 commemorating the church’s first hundred years. In 1905 Mr. and Mrs. Neece attended the first Southern Baptist Convention held outside the south, in Kansas City. It’s easy to see that Miss Beulah’s tenacity and usefulness were merely following and extending the pattern set by her parents. By Joe Jones/Jim Harrison, History Committee

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Here’s an opportunity to get out of the house on a Friday night for some FREE fun! We’ll have many activities available at the CLC, including: pick-up basketball & volleyball (for middle school to adult), table games (ping pong, pool, air hockey, foosball), board games – (bring your favorite one), young children’s room, popcorn, snacks, and drinks, and fun! No reservations necessary. We’ll see you April 3rd!

Self Defense Class – Aikido Who: 10th Grade to Adults When: Tuesdays and/or Thursdays at 6:30 pm Where: Christian Life Center (CLC) Please contact Sandra Taylor (430-1764) for more information, or if you are interested.

Mother-Daughter Scrapbooking Workshop Friday, March 20

5:00 - 9:00 pm in the CLC Patio Room For Mothers, Daughters, Grandmothers (ages 8 & up). Bring your own album projects or pre-order a paper album kit for $5. Contact Kay Bugg this week for more details: [email protected] or 828-2700.

FYI Menu

Wednesday, March 18

Adults Beef Stew, Coleslaw Cornbread, Dessert

Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad (Reservations for salad must be turned


NO KID’S MEAL DUE TO SPRING BREAK

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #23 - March 8, 2009


This Week $77,698.88 YTD $1,937,325.03


ATTENDANCE - March 8, 2009

Sunday School



We still need additional Sunday Morning greeters to meet members and visitors at the doors from 8:45 until 9:10 a.m. If you are interested in either volunteering every Sunday or as a substitute, please contact Toni Morgan (880-1544). The only prerequisites: a smile and a handshake!!

This is a great way to learn Church members.

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children ARE YOUR CHILDREN STRESSED ABOUT MONEY? Children are naturally intuitive creatures. With the airwaves filled with dire financial news, you can be certain that the children are listening. Not only are they listening, but if they hear one story multiple times...to a child that is multiple events. As the financial distress continues to rule and our purses close tighter, the question becomes, “How much should we tell the children?” Preschool Children Most young children are oblivious to problems with the economy as long as their basic needs are met. They do however notice stress in the home and if they cannot identify the source will frequently think it is their fault. Limit discussions about money/finances around the young child and do not let them listen to the daily ticker tape. Younger Elementary Children Younger children will hear about financial problems. They are exposed to adult conversations outside the home, but they will not grasp the financial concepts. Add this to the multiple events phenomenon and you have a stressful situation. If you do not address the concepts they hear, they will assume any stress in the home is their fault. Young children do not need details - simple assurance will work. If you say continually, “no we can’t afford that” your child will assume the worst. If you need to adjust your spending habits, tell your child you are making sure things will remain OK. Older Elementary Children Older children need more information in order to process the stress. It is good for them to see their parents modeling good spending habits and stress control. Often we continue to shield older children, depriving them of the opportunity to learn coping skills. Be selective in what you tell a child, but do share more of the real world facts with them. For example, you may tell an older child that you have lost your job and are working to find another, but you would not tell that same child that your mortgage is in jeopardy. Whatever your situation, make sure to keep as many things the same as possible. Particularly things that are enjoyable -- like family rituals. Rituals are one of the most powerful measures that parents can use to reduce stress. It indicates to a child “all is right with my world.”

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 10, March 12, 2009.


Trails to Adventure Outdoor Small Groups

Spring Interest Meeting Sunday, March 29

4:00 p.m. in Room 118

In a day when technology and business hold masses of individuals indoors underneath artificial light, studies show that more that 49 million people in the United States have broken free to recreate in the outdoors. Trails to Adventure is an exciting way to reach people for Christ, connecting them and each other with the Creator while exposing them to the light of the world. Do you enjoy….Canoeing, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Outdoor Photography, Bicycling, or even Scuba Diving? Would you like to be with others who enjoy….Canoeing, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Outdoor Photography, Bicycling, or even Scuba Diving? If your answer is yes, then join us for our Spring Interest Meeting, Sunday, March 29, at 4:00 p.m. to learn more. Trails to Adventure are for those individuals who have an attraction to God’s creation and love the great outdoors.

* * * * *


Experienced Adult

Sunday School Retreat with the author

Dr. Fisher Humphreys

Monte Sano State Park Date: Thursday, April 23, 2009

$15.00 per person

For reservations, contact the Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Tim Eum 437 Natures Way SW Huntsville AL 35824-3116 Cindy Hadley 1402 Ascent Trl NW Apt C Huntsville AL 35816-2170 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Irene Adams Family and friends of our member, Mary Allen, especially to her daughter, Jenny & Fred Glazner Debbie Bell in the loss of her mother, Beatrice Bell George Mitchell & Jennifer Britt in the loss of his mother, Sally Ann Britt Pat & Roy Heifner in the loss of her uncle, Lisa Andrews, in the loss of her great-uncle, and Brittany, Bryan, and Brandon Andrews, in the loss of their great-great uncle, Lee Reaves Family and friends of Madison Baptist Association Director of Missions, John Long, especially to the Madison Baptist Association staff Marcus & Lois Rhodes in the loss of his sister, Faye Sanders Family and friends of our member, Carlyle Smith, especially to his wife, Mary Helen Smith Family and friends of our member, Betty Wilson, especially to her daughter, Kim & Tom Cooper

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Thursday, March 26 6:00 p.m. at the CLC Bring a covered dish.

For information, Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107.

THANKS Thank you notes have been received from Peggi DeLeuil, Penny Johnson, and Linda and Woody Williams. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


This coming Sunday night we will be adding one special event to the regular schedule. At 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall we will gather for a Called Business Meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on two recommendations that come from a combined meeting

of the Leadership Council, Trustees, and Finance Committee. These recommendations were later affirmed by the Deacons. Now you will have an opportunity to hear them explained and to cast your vote. The first recommendation calls for the church to defer the Capital Stewardship Campaign to sometime in 2010. You will remember that this Campaign was originally scheduled to begin in January. In fact, our Commitment Sunday was planned to be this past Sunday. Last November we voted to reschedule the Campaign for the fall of 2009 due to the global economic conditions. Noting that conditions have not improved we believe that a campaign set for this fall may not be the best time for us to make stewardship commitments to God. The recommen-dation would simply delay this campaign until the following year. The second recommendation calls for us to proceed with our plans to purchase new television equipment and audio equipment for the Sanctuary. While some parts of our facility expansion and renovation are put on hold, this is one area where it is recommended for us to move ahead with only some slight adjustments to the original plan. In the Business Meeting you will hear details about the proposed equipment purchase and the plans for financing such a project. Various groups within the church have been hard at work preparing these recommendations since we voted to proceed last May. I hope that you will come to learn and to cast your vote as we determine the next steps for our congregation. These are not easy days in which to make decisions about ministry and money. The dark cloud of the economy hangs over us all. However, if we openly seek God’s Will through prayer and honest conversation about these matters, I believe that we will emerge stronger as a church and we will find the clarity for facing the future that God has in store for us. I encourage you to join us this Sunday night for the discussion and the making of decisions.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Message Series: “Running the Race that God has Won”

Hebrews 12:1-2

Sermon: “Begin at the End”

“...who for the sake of the joy that was set before him…”

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m.

Music from Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. FBC Sanctuary Choir

Piano Duet: Juliana Darby and Michaela Dubose-Schmitt


Fellowship Hall “The Gospel in Jerusalem”

Acts 21:15-23:35


Called Business Meeting The church will have a Called Business Meeting on Sunday evening, March 22, at 6:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall to consider two recommendations concerning our proposed facility expansion program. Dr. Hull’s “First Thoughts” column on this page has additional Information.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, March 22 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM MOPS Set-up/118 10:30 AM RA Racers/CLC 11:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Called Business Meeting/FH 6:00 PM Monday, March 23 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Coffee/Parlor 10:00 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, March 24 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, March 25 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Congregational Life Comm/117 5:00 PM Missions Strategy/Parlor 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Facility Planning Comm/Parlor 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, March 26 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, March 27 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM “Mommy Time”/CLC 4:00 PM Pietrzyk-McKee Wedding Reh/Sanct 5:30 PM Saturday, March 28 Fellowship Club Day Trip 7:00 AM Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM Pietrzyk-McKee Wedding /Sanct 6:00 PM

GETTING TO KNOW YOU Thursday, March 26, 6:00 p.m. - CLC Bring a covered dish. For information,

call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern OUR CARILLON Thank you to Joe Lunsford who has spent a significant amount of time improving our carillon. Joe has redone the wiring in the bell tower and also has developed a software program that has so many creative possibilities for our use. Perhaps you’ve noticed that now instead of hearing the Westminster chimes each quarter hour, you now hear “O God Our Help in Ages Past.” We recorded from the small keyboard in the music suite (which plays only 24 of the 48 bells), saved and programmed this historic hymn using Joe’s software. Our choir recently sang the text of this great hymn. It rings out its message as part of our bicentennial celebration: “O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal home!” You’ll hear a new phrase added each ¼ hour until the entire four phrases of the hymn are rung on the hour. The new software gives us the ability to pre-program music you might request for specific occasions. We can record it in advance and schedule the date and time for it to ring. So if you have a special event or a special request, please talk to Elizabeth about how we might use the carillon. Thank you, Joe, for the fine job you’ve done in helping us use our beautiful carillon in more ways. Your skills and dedication have made a great improvement combining the mechanics of an instrument that goes back to the 15th century with modern technology. Thank you, too, to Michael Moore who ascends the freight elevator to the carillon 65 feet in the air to play it each Sunday as you come in for Sunday School and as you leave the 10:30 Sunday morning service. He’s up there playing live in real time! That’s not pre-recorded music! From high in the tower room, the player performs from an instrument with “batons” and a pedalboard instead of keys, laid out similar to a keyboard. The player plays with his/her fists rather than fingers. From the tower, the player can do more complicated arrangements and play faster and more musically due to the closeness of the contact from the real carillon to the bells and clappers. Michael often plays his own beautiful arrangements. With the outstanding artistic and technological minds we have in our church, the sky is the limit! Dates to Note: April 4-5 VOICES Youth Choir Festival at FBC Guest conductor is Stephen Carrell (FBC, San Antonio, Texas) Saturday mass rehearsals Palm Sunday concert at 5 pm April 8 Maundy Thursday Worship in the Fellowship Hall (7 PM) Music from the FBC Orchestra and First Fellowship Musicians Celebration of the Lord’s Supper April 9 Good Friday Worship in the Sanctuary (7 PM) Music from the Sanctuary Choir A Service of Tenebrae May 3 Presentation of the Brahms Requiem (5 PM) Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra Guest singers from sister churches In Remembrance, Thanksgiving and Celebration of the saints who have served Christ for 200 years at FBC May 17 Music and Missions Recognition Service (5 PM)

RA RACERS

RA Racers will be this Sunday, March 22, in our CLC. First Baptist racer registration will be from 11:30 to 12:30. First Baptist races begin at 12:30. Madison County Baptist Association races will be immediately after FBC races. You can contact John Schocke with questions, [email protected]


FYI Menu

Wednesday, March 25 Adults

Stuffed Baked Potato w/BBQ Pork

Layered Green Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #24 - March 15, 2009

Year -to-Date Goal: $2,106,789.00 Offering:

This Week $71,565.13 YTD $2,008,890.16


SUNDAY SCHOOL AND

WORSHIP ATTENDANCE FIGURES WILL BE PRINTED NEXT WEEK

FIRST STITCHERS Our group will meet in the Patio Room of the Christian Life Center on March 26, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Tables are set up to do hand-stitching, machine-stitching, quilting, and even for cutting out projects. Beginning in the month of March the group plans to meet the 2nd and 4th Thursday’s through the month of May. Please come and join in the fun of Stitching. If interested and need more information contact Janis Warman: 880-2058 or by e-mail, [email protected] .

Trails to Adventure

Outdoor Small Groups Spring Interest Meeting

Sunday, March 29 4:00 p.m. in Room 118

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool THE CELEBRATION CONTINUES In January, when we kicked off our year-long celebration of our 200th birthday, we had many participants who helped paint a mural which is hanging on the wall in the CLC. From 3-year-olds and up, the artists chose their colors and painted to their hearts’ content. Have you been by to check it out? Thank you, Jamie Richardson, for drawing the outlines for us to fill in. What a beautiful example of “the ages” working together. Common Sleep Mistakes Parents Make

(excerpts from the ParentCenter Bulletin, continued from last article) Mistake #4: Skipping the bedtime routine With a baby, you might assume that a routine consisting of a bath, a book, and a lullaby isn't yet necessary. But "having a series of calming, pleasing activities leading up to lights-out is very important," says Judith Owens, director of the pediatric sleep disorders clinic at Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. It prepares your child for sleep, she explains.

Parents of big kids who used to have a bedtime routine may drop it because they mistakenly believe their child is too old or because they are too tired themselves to do it. But even adults benefit from having some kind of routine to wind down each night. Good habit: A comforting bedtime ritual Regardless of your child's age, the key is to have a predictable series of steps that help him wind down from the day. For an infant, that might mean a simple change into pajamas and some cuddling; with older children, the routine might entail a bath, reading books, singing songs, or saying a prayer. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - June 22-25 Our curriculum has been chosen and we are taking volunteers to help with VBS. As you are doing your spring cleaning, if you find fabric that we could use for draping around doorways, please place it where you can find it easily for us. We will also need tent-like structures with open sides for decorating purposes too. Watch The Messenger for more information. If you would like to look at some information about our VBS on-line, it is by Group and is called Paul and the Underground church. As our church has been thinking about what we were like 200 years ago, we want the children to experience what the early church was like. Please be in prayer for those who will be teaching and leading in our VBS this year. Start praying now for the children who will attend. Volunteer by calling the Childhood Ministries office at 428-911.

Sign-up Deadline—March 31

M-Fuge Mission Camp Belmont University in Nashville

Cost: $325.00

June 15-20 Students will join with over 400 other stu-dents for a week filled with great service opportunities, Bible study, worship, and fun. M-Fuge is a great week. Students come away changed.

Sunday—March 29 5:30 PM at the home of Jeremy,

Chris & Patrick Dickson

Can you hit the piñata?

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801

The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801- 5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 11, March 19, 2009.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Lynn Phillips 2802 Overton Rd SW Huntsville AL 35801-3218 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Mary Jo Deaver in the loss of her cousin, Irby Mandrell Eva & John Geiger in the loss of her aunt, Elizabeth LeMon Family and friends of former FBC member, Betty Taylor, especially to her husband, Donald Taylor OUR NEWEST Dailey Mayne Boyett, daughter of David and Haley Boyett, 502 Greendale Drive, Huntsville, AL 35806, born March 15, 2009. Proud grandparents are Debbie and Allen Stephenson. Daniel Alexander Laster, son of Aaron and Robin Laster, 150 Spinnaker Ridge Drive SW, Apartment #G126, Huntsville, AL 35824, born March 13, 2009.

THANKS Thank you notes have been received from Michael Faulkner and John, Kathy, and Sue Latimer. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

The Hallelujah Choir invites you to a coffee

Monday, March 23, 2009 10:00 a.m. - Church Parlor

Following the coffee, you are invited to follow our happy group

to listen and/or sing with us in joyful song. It’s easy and fun to sing praises

to the Lord .

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE WORKSHOP: APRIL 2-4

This workshop will be held at Madison Baptist Association. Cost is $50. Please prayerfully consider your involvement. Our ESL ministry needs more teachers. Contact Tina Darby with questions, 837-5699.

You Are Invited

to come and hear Alan and Melodie Lyons,

Missionaries to Guatemala, Panama,

and Mexico. Hosted by Roundtable III

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 10:00 a.m.

Fellowship Hall Men and Women

are invited to attend.

PERRY COUNTY MISSION TRIP

MAY 31 - JUNE 5

Watch for an announcement about an interest meeting

to be held in April.

Gordon Perry


FBC Girls’ Night Out Are you the mother of a preschooler? Do you have memories of life with a pre-schooler? Would you enjoy shared laughter about life with preschoolers? Then you are invited to join us for:

MOTHERLOAD, a new comedy at Merrimack Hall (Huntsville) Friday, March 27

The published information about this show states, “Join us for a night of hysterical mixes of motherhood, comedy and true confession of the . . . ever challenging quest to be the ‘perfect mom’.” Here is the plan we are offering: 5:30 Gather in the Patio Room at our CLC for dinner and pre-show fellowship 6:45 Carpool over to Merrimack Hall for the show which begins at 7:30 Cost: $20 - fellowship dinner at the CLC and show $15 - show only Checks made payable to FBC

Reservations with payment needed by Sunday, March 22. Contact Sherry Jarnagin in the Adult Ministry Office (428-9403; [email protected]) A phrase in our FBC Vision statement is “Connecting Members.” Fellowship and shared laughter are great connecting tools! I’ve not seen the show, but it sounds like something of which we might enjoy laughing together! What do you think? FBC Girls’ Night Out? Would you like to join this gathering? Bring a friend? Let us know by Sunday, March 22. I look forward to hearing from you.

Pam

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Holy Week is only a few days away. The Season of Lent comes to a climax in this week that we set apart to remember the last few days of Jesus’ life. I encourage you to make this week “holy” in your life. Rather than having a normal week, will you participate in the worship events that are planned at the church so that

you will find time for reflection and repentance in preparation for the glorious celebration of Easter? Here is what we have planned: Voices – April 5, Palm Sunday, at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary Each year our Youth Choir joins with other youth choirs in our area for a joint musical presentation. This year we host the concert as a special event to begin Holy Week. A guest conductor, Stephen Carrell, from the First Baptist Church in San Antonio will be leading the group. You will find this evening to be a true blessing for you as the music of our youth point us to the cross. Wednesday, April 8, Regular Wednesday night activities Join us for our usual Wednesday night activities that provide fellowship and learning for all ages. Maundy Thursday, April 9, 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Music will be provided by the Orchestra and some of the First Fellowship musicians. We will remember that it was on this Thursday night that our Lord first served the “Lord’s Supper” to his friends. We will join in a celebration of Communion on that night. Good Friday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary A Service of Tenebrae is a worship experience that grows darker and darker as worship progresses. It reminds us of the darkness that fell on the earth the day Jesus died on the cross. Scripture passages will tell the story, and our Sanctuary Choir will lead us as they sing the story. We will leave in darkness and silence – preparing our hearts for the glorious light and hallelujahs of Easter. In addition to these worship services at our church, I invite you to participate in two other Lenten/Holy Week services at sister churches in our city. I will be preaching on Tuesday, March 31, at the noonday service at Church of the Nativity, Episcopal and at the noon Holy Week Lunch service at the First United Methodist Church on Monday, April 6. I am honored to be invited to lead in these services, and I pass along the invitation to you to join with our brothers and sisters in Christ from these churches in the community as we make these remaining days of Lent a holy experience.

Sunday, March 29, 2009 Message Series:


Sermon: “At the Cross” “...endured the cross, disregarding its shame…”



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. FBC Orchestra—Prelude to “Te Deum”

Sanctuary Choir—”God So Loved the World”


Fellowship Hall “The Journey to Rome” — Acts 24:1 - 2:31


You Are Invited to come and hear Alan and Melodie Lyons,

Missionaries to Guatemala, Panama, and Mexico. Hosted by Roundtable III

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Men and women are invited.

Refreshments provided

CALLED BUSINESS MEETING RESULTS

At a Called Business Meeting held last Sunday night, March 22, the church voted to defer the Capital Stewardship Campaign to the year 2010. We also voted to approve the purchase and imple-mentation of the sanctuary sound improvement program and the high definition digital television conversion program at a combined cost of approximately $850,000. The church will fund these pro-jects through a combination of our existing line of credit and a new fixed rate loan.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, March 29 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Choir/Off Campus 2:20 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM “Trails to Adventure”/118 3:30 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Stu Fun Night/Off Campus 6:00 PM Monday, March 30 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Marriage Ministry Team/111 6:00 PM Tuesday, March 31 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WMU/FH 10:00 PM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 1 Precepts Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Missions Strategy/Parlor 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Early Adult Ldrship/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Committee/Parlor 7:00 PM FBC Saxaphone Ensemble/Sanct 7:30 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, April 2 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM HAP Training/241 9:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, April 3 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Fellowship Club 10:00 AM FBC Family Fun Night/CLC 6:00 PM Saturday, April 4 Ala. Music Tchr Assoc 8:30 AM—3:30 PM Festival/2nd & 3rd Floors

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children GOING TO CHURCH I love to sleep in late. In fact, on most days, I don’t even set my alarm clock. I let my daughter be my alarm and I enjoy every precious minute of extra sleep when she decides to sleep in, too. The only day I set my alarm and get up with it, even if my daughter’s not awake yet, is Sunday. Why? Because we go to church on Sunday. I don’t always crawl out of bed eagerly on Sunday mornings and some weeks we’re a little slower than others, but we always get up and go. You don’t have to go to church to be saved or even to worship the Lord, but I believe church is very important. I’ve made it a priority for myself and my family for several reasons: 1. I want to show God He’s a priority. It just doesn’t make sense to say, “God, I really appreciate all the things you’ve done for me and all the blessings You’ve given me this week and I hope You’ll be with me next week, but I just can’t make it to church, today. I know You’ve set this day aside for us to worship You, but I’ve just got better things to do.” We are commanded to make the Lord our number one priority. Sadly, we’re sinful and we rarely make Him number one in our lives. But going to church is a small way to show God that we do want to make Him our priority. Matthew 22:37: “Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’” 2. Worship. You don’t have to go to church to worship the Lord. You can and should worship Him with your whole life. But scheduled time set aside to worship the Lord with other Christians has special value, too. Sometimes it is accompanied by warm fuzzies and sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it’s something deeper that you may only realize the significance of later. Worship is work, not just something to make us feel good. Worship is a sacrifice we make that pleases the Lord, but it also benefits our spirits. Romans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - This is your spiritual act of worship.” Psalm 34:9 : “Worship GOD if you want the best worship opens doors to all his goodness.” 3. Fellowship. Not taking advantage of the opportunity to go to church and be with other believers would be like living in the same town with all your relatives and never going to visit them. We’re all members of God’s family and we belong together. Ephesians 2:19: “You are members of God’s very own family, citizens of God’s country, And you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.”

There’s not much we can do alone, apart from our body of believers. Romans 12:4-5: “Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we’re talking about is Christ’s body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn’t amount to much, would we?” Fellowship with other Christians gives us a deeper understanding of the richness of our blessings. Philemon 1:6 : “My prayer is that our fellowship with you as believers will bring about a deeper understanding of every blessing which we have in our life in union with Christ.” 4. Spiritual Food. I don’t know about you, but I sure need all the help I can get in navigating through life. I value every single bit of God’s wisdom, insight and truth that I can get. And what better place to get it than at church from God’s very Word through reading, studying, listening and discussing it with other Christians. Ephesians 6:13-17: “Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.” Author: Heather Roberts - Check out the website at www.totallyawesomegrace.com

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, April 3, 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

“Give My Regards to Broadway” Huntsville Music Study Club

For reservations, call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107. Menu: Greek Chicken w/Blackberry Sauce, Long Grain Wild Rice,

Mixed Vegetables, Roll, Dessert

FYI Menu

Wednesday, April 1 Adults

Penne Pasta Casserole Green Salad - French Bread

Dessert



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #25 – March 22, 2009


This Week $43,565.27 YTD $2,052,455.43


ATTENDANCE

March 15, 2009 Sunday School


March 22, 2009 Sunday School


WORSHIP ATTENDANCE

March 15, 2009 First Fellowship 206 Sanctuary Worship 627 Student Spring Camp 109 TOTAL 942

March 22, 2009 First Fellowship 305 Sanctuary Worship 633 TOTAL 938


SATURDAY, APRIL 18

March 29 is the last Sunday to sign up for Serving the City. Our church goal is 700 and around 300 have signed up. We know many base ball leagues will begin that weekend but we have many projects and variety of times of service available – so be sure to sign up and we will work out the time factor for you and your family. Write on your sign-up brochure the times you have open and we will do our best to find a great project for you.

Easter Crosses Easter Crosses will be available for the next few Sundays. Be sure and add this avenue of worship to your Holy Week observances and the celebration of Easter Sunday. Crosses will be available in the east entrance and the Fellowship Hall.

Orders are being taken now for Easter lilies to be placed in the Sanctuary on Easter Sunday. If you would like to purchase a lily in memory of or in

honor of someone, you will find order envelopes at the welcome centers and in the Church Office. Cost is $7. Deadline to purchase is Sunday, April 5. Please turn in envelope and payment to the Church Office.


Here’s your opportunity to get out of the house on a Friday night for some FREE fun! We’ll have many activities available at the CLC, including: pick-up basketball & volleyball (for middle school to adult), table games (ping pong, pool, air hockey, foosball), board games – (bring your favorite one), young children’s room, popcorn, snacks, and drinks, and fun! No reservations necessary. We’ll see you April 3rd!

FBC SPORTS CAMP - 2009 June 8-10, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Completed Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Registration is May 4-29 at the CLC Cost: $40 ($35 for other siblings)


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 12, March 26, 2009.


This Sunday, March 29th Trails to Adventure

Outdoor Small Groups

Spring Interest Meeting 4:00 p.m. - Room 118

In a day when technology and business hold masses of individuals indoors underneath artificial light, studies show that more that 49 million people in the United States have broken free to recreate in the outdoors. Trails to Adventure is an exciting way to reach people for Christ, connecting them and each other and with the Creator while exposing them to the light of the world. Do you enjoy….Canoeing, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Outdoor Photography, Bicycling, or even Scuba Diving. Would you like to be with others who enjoy….Canoeing, Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Outdoor Photography, Bicycling, or even Scuba Diving. If your answer is yes, then join us for our Spring Interest Meeting, Sunday, March 29, at 4:00 p.m. to learn more. Trails to Adventure are for those individuals who have an attraction to God’s creation and love the great outdoors.

***** “I Have Called You

Friends”

Experienced Adult Sunday School Retreat

With the author Dr. Fisher Humphreys

Monte Sano State Park Thursday, April 23, 2009

$15.00 per person For reservations contact the

Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Brady Buford 353 Woodmont Dr Union Grove AL 35175-7868 Judy Ross 1000 Airport Rd SW Apt B10 Huntsville AL 35802-4303 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Diane & Jerry Mungle in the loss of her mother and Jeremy Mungle in the loss of his grandmother, Dot Lawson Don & Joyce Royston in the loss of his sister, Virginia Schaefer Glennice & Ray Swaim in the loss of her uncle, R.E. Vaughn OUR NEWEST Reagan Alivia Latham, daughter of Kent and Allison Latham, 4871 Gresham Ridge Drive, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144, born March 18, 2009. Proud grandparents are Dal and Sandra Kirkland and Marilyn and Bobby Wells, and great-grandparents J. D. and Barbara Kirkland.

YOUTH CHOIR INFO

Next Sunday, March 29, is a special rehearsal opportunity as our Youth Choir will meet with three other churches’ VOICES participants in a joint rehearsal at FBC Athens. Students are asked to meet at 2:15 pm to leave for Athens. Following the joint rehearsal at FBC Athens, our students will enjoy a Fun Night at the Dicksons on the way back home.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Jane Starr, Don and Joyce Royston, Emma Mitchell, Bob Miner, Becky Caneer, and Linda & Jerry Davis. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


The following words are from

The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey:

The other two days have earned names on the church calendar: Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Yet in a real sense we live on Saturday, the day with no name. What the disciples experienced in small scale—three days in grief over one man who had died on a cross—we now live through on cosmic scale. Human history grinds on, between the time of promise and fulfillment. Can we trust that God can make something holy and beautiful and good out of a world that includes Bosnia and Rwanda and inner-city ghettos and jammed prisons in the richest nation on earth? It's Saturday on planet earth. Will Sunday ever come? That dark, Golgothan Friday can only be called Good because of what happened on Easter Sunday, a day which gives a tantalizing clue to the riddle of the universe. Easter opened up a crack in a universe winding down toward entropy and decay, sealing the promise that someday God will enlarge the miracle of Easter to cosmic scale. It is a good thing to remember that in the cosmic drama, we live out our days on Saturday, the in-between day with no name. I know a woman whose grandmother lies buried under 150-year- old live oak trees in the cemetery of an Episcopal church in rural Louisiana. In accordance with the grandmother's instructions, only one word is carved on the tombstone: "Waiting." Though Jesus cast a vision for a better kingdom now and in the future, as long as it is Saturday, the fulfillment of that vision still awaits until Sunday dawns.

With all of the economic turmoil and uncertainty in our world these days, it surely does feel a great deal like Saturday. I read those words by Yancey several years ago, but they seem to have more meaning for me this year. We are “waiting,” aren’t we? Isn’t it a great thing that Sunday is coming! Join us for worship during Holy Week as we “wait” for the Sunday that fills us with hope.

Holy Week Worship

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Palm Sunday Sermon:

“Seated at the Right Hand” Hebrews 12:1-2


Music from A20


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Guest Soloist Stephen Carrell

Sanctuary Choir and Brass: “In Christ Alone” Young Musicians Handbells

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary VOICES Youth Choir Concert

Guest conductor is Rev. Stephen Carrell, Minister of Music and Worship

at FBC San Antonio, Texas

Wednesday Night, April 8 Regular activities and supper

Maundy Thursday, April 9, 7:00 p.m.

Fellowship Hall FBC Orchestra and First Fellowship Musicians

Celebration of Communion

Good Friday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. Sanctuary

Service of Tenebrae Music from Sanctuary Choir

December 18, 2008 April 2, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, April 5 - Palm Sunday First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Boy Scout Comm/342 4:00 PM VOICES Reh/CR, Sanct 3:30 PM VOICES Concert/Sanct. 5:00 PM Monday, April 6 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Deacons’ Mtg/118 6:00 PM Tuesday, April 7 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 8 Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 6:15 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Missions Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, April 9 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Maundy Thursday Sevice/FH 7:00 PM Friday, April 10 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Good Friday Service/Sanct 7:00 PM Saturday, April 11 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon

PLEASE NOTE

This Sunday, April 5, is the deadline for all “Serving the City” donations to be turned in.


VOICES This weekend is the VOICES Youth Choir Festival, hosted at First Baptist Church! Our youth choir members will join with their counterparts from FBC Decatur, FBC Madison and FBC Athens. Guest conductor/clinician is Rev. Stephen Carrell, Minister of Music and Worship at FBC San Antonio, Texas, a youth choir specialist. The ministry of youth choir is a significant one. Students are exposed to scripture texts that, when sung, are internalized for a lifetime! The experience of making music with a group of peers is beautiful on so many levels, too. Choir offers a great social environment that includes an emphasis on worship, spirituality and ministry. Our students grow in their faith through involvement in the Youth Choir at FBC. The VOICES festival brings together four youth choirs with similar musical and ministry approaches. Students will learn and draw strength from each other. Saturday’s sessions will include a 10 AM morning rehearsal, lunch at Parkway Place Mall, and an afternoon rehearsal dismissing at 3 PM. The VOICES festival will conclude with a Palm Sunday afternoon concert in our sanctuary at 5 PM. Plan to attend and bring friends to what promises to be a very special presentation by youth choral musicians from around our region!

* * * * * Stephen T. Carrell is in his eighteenth year as Minister of Music of the 148-year-old First Baptist Church of San Antonio, Texas. His ministerial and musical pursuits have been committed to the teaching and equipping of children, youth and adults in the choral and vocal arts and to the unification and edification of the church through a shared language of multi-generational worship. He is a graduate of Baylor University where he earned the Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in vocal performance. He has appeared as tenor soloist with the San Antonio Symphony and with the Austin Symphony. Stephen has appeared in “Three Tenors” concerts with Boca Symphonic Pops in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His youth and adult choirs have appeared in multiple conferences and have been featured with the Texas Choral Directors Association Church and Community Division presentations. He and his wife, Jamye, have three lovely daughters, Sarah, Rebecca and Rachel.

Staff Anniversary Recognition This past Sunday in First Fellowship, we recognized Terry Lonergan, our CLC Coordinator, for five years of service at First Baptist. Terry coordinates all activities that take place at the CLC and even some events beyond the CLC doors! Terry supervises our CLC staff and coordinates the volunteers who faithfully serve in this ministry. Through events such as church-wide picnics, Fall Festivals, birthday and other parties, craft gatherings, family reunions, sporting events – the list goes on – Terry has helped First Baptist toward the goals we all desire. Thank you Terry for being a welcoming and caring presence as you minister with us at First Baptist Church. We hope you will continue to share your gifts with us as part of our church staff for years to come.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, April 8 Adults Ham

Scalloped Corn - Broccoli - Roll Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #26—March 29, 2009


This Week $64,154.37 YTD $2,116,609.80


ATTENDANCE March 29, 2009

Sunday School



Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from John and Lucy Cotton (for FBC prayers), Martha Edfeldt, and Glennice Balch Swaim. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.


EASTER OPPORTUNITY Our Worship Care classrooms for Easter are staffed by those of you who call to volunteer for that particular Sunday. What a beautiful way to show God’s love to young families by caring for their young child (ages birth – 3 years) and providing a sense of security for parents so they may attend worship on Easter Sunday. We offer care for both Worship Services so you can choose whether you will serve during First Fellowship from 8:00 a.m. until Sunday School time OR during Sanctuary Worship from 10:15 until the service is over. If you would like to serve in this ministry, please

call the Childhood Ministries office at 428-9411. EASTER FLORAL CROSS During this time of the year, we see a beautiful illustration of God’s love and redemption with the new life found in trees and flowers around us. We invite you to help us illustrate this new life with your family by bringing flowers to add to our Easter Floral Cross. You can find this cross in the gathering area in front of the library. This is a great family picture moment! We look forward to seeing you at the cross!

We are continuing with our Adventure in Mothering theme through April and May. Our next meeting is April 27 from 9 – 11 a.m. If you are coming for the first time and need care for your preschooler, age birth through kindergarten, please call 428-9411 by April 20 to make reservations for MOPPETS. Our program for April is on Nutrition – both

for you and for your child. How do you lose that last 10 pounds anyway? We invite you to come, join our group, and bring a friend! We are in this adventure together!

We had a great Spring Camp learning about Jesus’

words — “A new command I give

you: Love one another. As I have loved you so you must

love one another.”

Thank you, FBC, for the continued support of

our Student Ministry!


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 13, April 2, 2009


Ladies’ Fellowship Opportunity DAY TRIP TO THE AMISH COUNTRY IN ETHRIDGE, TN

For All FBC Women and Friends Tuesday, April 28

Cost: $8.00/person, payable to FBC when you sign up; other individual expenses include your travel, lunch, and any shopping you may do!

To sign up see Sherry in the Adult Ministry Office ([email protected]; 428-9403). Sign-up deadline: Wednesday, April 22. For more information, contact Kim Mims ([email protected], 883-2167). Plans are: 9:15 AM Depart from FBC East Entrance. Carpool to Lawrenceburg,TN (1½ hour drive). 11:00 AM Eat lunch together at The Brass Lantern. We will have a group reservation; Order from menu; Cost, $10 or less. 12:15 PM Drive to the Amish Welcome Center in Ethridge, TN. 12:30 PM Enjoy a 1 ½ hour horse-drawn wagon tour of the Amish Country. 2:00 PM Enjoy free time/shopping; Return home based on individual scheduling needs (allow 1 ½ hours for drive home). A word of testimony from an FBC member . . .

Ladies, let me encourage you to visit the Amish Country! Last fall, I went with some friends. What a delight! It was a beautiful day! The surroundings were gorgeous! We took a guided tour on a horse and buggy. We met some of the Amish people and it was such a blessing to hear from their hearts. They allowed us to have a window into what their lives are like. They taught us a lot by the way they live their lives. They are happy, humble people who love

the Lord. They are very talented people as well. We met furniture makers, basket weavers, toy designers, bakers and others with very creative abilities. We were able to purchase some of these treasures which made us happy and them happy as well! It was a great day of fellowship with each other and fellowship with the Amish people. I know you will be blessed in this trip! I hope you can go! Donna Lehman

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Gay Ritch PO Box 324 Huntsville AL 35804-0324 OUR NEWEST Molly Amanda Burton, daughter of Brian and Lisa Burton, 2300 Nottingham Way, Albany, GA 31707, born March 25, 2009. Proud grandparents are Rhett and Jackie Burton and great-grandparents John and Mary Gamble. Kyle Dean Mackrell, son of Ryan and Heather Mackrell, 112 Saint Anne Road, Madison, AL 35758, born March 26, 2009.

This Sunday, April 5, is the last day to order an Easter lily. If you would like to purchase a lily in memory of or in honor of someone, you will find order envelopes at the welcome centers and in the Church Office. Cost is $7 . Please turn in envelope and payment to the Church Office.

THURSDAY, April 23

6:00 p.m. - CLC

Bring a covered dish.

Call Myra Haythorn,

837-3107 for reservations.

October 30, 2008


During this Lenten Season I have enjoyed the opportunities to speak in two sister churches of other denominations. I am grateful to the Church of the Nativity, Episcopal, and the First United Methodist Church in Huntsville for inviting me to participate in their noonday services. It is always good to learn from others and to experience worship and fellowship that are outside the normal rounds of my own experience.

I was worshiping in the Episcopal Church, just a few moments away from preaching, when the Old Testament lesson was read. I had not selected this passage. In fact, I did not know what it was going to be before I arrived to preach. The words rang out in that historic sanctuary: When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion,

we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves. Psalm 126

I have reflected on those words from the Psalmist since that day. They describe the message of Easter, don’t they? This Sunday we gather to affirm that “The LORD has done great things.” We will hear again the glorious Easter story as told in John 20:1-18. It begins in darkness as Mary was one of “those who go out weeping.” She went in the darkness to bear the seed of her tears for sowing. Later, an encounter with the Risen LORD turns her around to “come home with shouts of joy.” “May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.” We come to Easter with all of the struggles that cause us to “sow in tears” along the road of life. But along that Easter road, just at the point of the empty tomb, we may exclaim like Mary, “I have seen the LORD.” That is the hope of the Resurrection. Everything changes once we “see the LORD.” Sowing tears . . .reaping joy. Let’s talk about that as we celebrate a glorious Easter.

Easter Sunday April 12, 2009

Sermon: “Sowing Tears...Reaping Joy” Psalm 126 and John 20:1-18



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. FBC Choir and Orchestra Anthem: “The Holy City”

Solo from Suzanne Hefner

No evening service or activities.


Ministry Calendar

Sunday, April 12—Easter Sunday First Fellowship/Baptism/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM NO EVENING SERVICE OR ACTIVITIES Monday, April 13 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Roundtable/242 12:00 PM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, April 14 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC 6:00 PM HAP Brd Meeting/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 15 Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Blood Drive/CLC 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Nominating Comm/111 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Bible Study/108 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Missions Strategy/Parlor 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, April 16 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM “Daybeak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Brahm’s Requiem Reh/CR,Sanct 6:30 PM Friday, April 17 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM “Serving the City” Prep/FH 6AM-5:30 PM Belk Piano Reh/Sanct 3:00 PM Saturday, April 18 “Serving the City” FH 6:00 AM-5:30 PM “Serving the City”/CLC 8:00 AM-6:00 PM Suh Piano Recital/CR 2:00 PM Belk Piano Recital/Sanct 2:00 PM Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon


Thank you for the good response to volunteering for Serving the City on April 18. We look forward to a wonderful day of service in our community. A snack breakfast begins at 7:30 in the Fellowship Hall. Projects will begin at 8:30 unless a different time is arranged by the team leader. If you ordered a T-Shirt, bring $5 with you to the Fellowship Hall to pick up your shirt. For any questions see Rodger Keene or Andy Crocker. There is one additional need: More baskets, medium and large, are needed for packing projects. Please bring these to the church office by Sunday, April 12.

WORKSHOP

On Saturday, May 9, Stephen Ministries from St. Louis, Missouri will conduct a half-day workshop for Huntsville area churches of all denominations. Our

church will host this in our building from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. This workshop features an introduction to the Stephen Series System of Lay Caregiving Ministry. You, as an FBC member, are invited to attend at no charge, but you do need to call the church, 428-9400, and register. This is an opportunity for our membership to find out more on how to care in a distinctively Christian Way.

CANOEING AND TROUT FISHING TRIP—

INDIVIDUAL OR FAMILY Thursday, May 28 – Monday, June 1.

We have the opportunity to combine two great outdoor activities... trout fishing and canoeing. As a part of the First Baptist Church Adventure Series the two groups are planning a trip to northern Arkansas at the same time. You are welcome to combine the two activities or enjoy them separately. This trip will have a lot of flexibility for your schedule: the number of those coming with you, you can tent camp, bring an RV, or rent a cabin by the river. We will be stationed on the White River at His Place Resort (www.hisplaceresort.org) and will take advantage of the great trout fishing there. The canoeing group will float two rivers: the clean, clear, and cold White River, and the first river to be made a national river waterway by congress, the Buffalo River.

The Buffalo has some of the highest bluffs, beautiful water and sections just right for beginners or for those who enjoy a little challenge. Eustis Walker will be leading the fishing group and Mike Pearce will be leading the canoeing group. An interest meeting will be held for all who would like to find out more details about this trip. The interest meeting will be Sunday afternoon, April 19, at 2:00 p.m. in the Church Parlor.

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern The LifeSouth Bloodmobile will be in the Christian Life Center parking lot on Wednesday, April 15, from 10am-6pm, accepting blood donations for our community.

YOU’RE INVITED!!! What:............................National Scrapbook Day Event When:...........................................Saturday, April 25th Time:.............................................9:00am to 9:00pm Location: ...............First Baptist Church, Huntsville; CLC Cost:.............................$20 per person, includes lunch; pre-paid registration guarantees workspace 12 hours of dedicated time and space for album -making projects. Space is limited and going fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a day scrapbooking with friends. Contact Kay Bugg today if you are interested! (256) 828-2700 or [email protected]

FBC Sports Camp 2009 June 8th – 10th ? 9am – 2pm

Completed K through Completed 3rd Grade Registration: May 4th – 29th at the CLC. Cost: $40 ($35 for other siblings)

FYI Menu

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Adults Parmesan Chicken

Pasta Noodles Green Salad

Roll



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #27 - April 5, 2009


This Week $91,427.57 YTD $2,208,037.37


ATTENDANCE April 5, 2009

Sunday School


WORSHIP ATTENDANCE


THANKS

A thank you note has been received from Jim and Nancy Harrison. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children

Many parents had bad, or just plain boring, experiences in church as kids, and wonder if there's any point to taking their children through the same process. Knowing that it's the right thing to do, and convincing the child, are two different things. Children need to know: Going to church is something Christians do as a way to connect with God and God's people. Explain to your child why it's important and the benefits of going to church. Your job

isn't done until they understand why you're asking them to go to church. If you drag your children, and never let them see the purpose behind it, they'll find better things to do with their Sunday mornings when they're old enough to make the choice.

Explain that life isn't lived in isolation. A church provides a bigger family, a group of people to care about and who care for you.

Going to church helps parents in the spiritual teaching of children. When parents are the only teacher of God's principles and way of life, children may end up thinking that everything that has to do with God is just their parents' own personal hang-up.

Don't leave all spiritual teaching to Sunday school teachers and pastors. Teaching a child about God is a mutual support job of family and church.

Church is a place to learn about God and His principles for life. Show them the application of Biblical principles in YOUR life and the life of your family.

On the way to church, talk about how you're looking forward to learning more about God during the service and study hour.

On the way home, share what you learned and get your children talking about what they did, what songs they sang, what the lesson was about.

When your church schedules something extra - a party, a play, a midweek kid's club - make it a priority to get them there.

Build friendships and social relationships with other members in your church. Bring the life of the church into the life of your family.

Teach your children that faith is about knowing God; and about who they become and how they live as a result of that relationship. From Talking to Your Children About God by Rick Osborne, copyright (c) 1998. Rick Osborne is the creator and co-author of the bestselling 101 Questions Children Ask About... series, author of Teaching Your Child How to Pray, and the online newsletter Tips and Tools for Spiritual Parenting; and co-author, with national radio talk show host Larry Burkett, of Financial Parenting.

April 23 – 7PM – Fellowship Hall FREE EVENT!

LIVE NATIONWIDE Childcare provided.

First Baptist Church Spring 2009

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL REPORT

We are now at our halfway point in the fiscal year. Offerings are $2,120,693 toward a budget of $2,242,245. This shortfall of $121,552 is 5.7% below our expected ministry goal. At this point last year, giving was $2,172,045. This difference of $51,352 is a 2.4% decrease in giving. Should this deficit continue through the next quarter, our budget will have to be reduced, affecting most ministry areas. Some expenses have already been delayed due to the decrease in giving, as you can see below. God’s Word tells us that all we do and give in His service will be blessed. This year holds many opportunities for ministry and in order for us to achieve all God has planned for us, we must be found faithful in the area of financial stewardship. If you are behind in your gifts to the church you will have opportunity to make up that difference on May 3. We begin a stewardship emphasis next week focusing on “Share Generously.” Look to the next page for more information. We are a church body that gives liberally and cheerfully—in both service and financial resources. As we enter the third quarter of this year—a time when we are vacationing and enjoying the summer season—we ask that each person respond to God’s blessings and continue to open his/her heart to the needs of God’s people through His church.

Ministry Budget October - March, FY 2009

YTD Budget YTD Actual Ministry Receipts $ 2,242,245 $ 2,120,693 Ministry Expenditures: Vision for Ministry:

Worship 40,375 22,328 Evangelism 96,701 82,525 Spiritual Growth 120,777 93,342 Ministry Development 3,300 817 Congregational Life 70,065 47,281 Missions 269,070 254,484 Total $ 600,288 $ 500,776 Equipping for Ministry 958,711 912,366 Support for Ministry 575,474 479,553 Other (Income)/Expenses 3,200 (2,741) Total Ministry Expenditures $ 2,137,673 $ 1,889,955 Excess (Deficit) $ 104,572 $ 230,738

“Although they were going through hard times

and were very poor, they were glad to give generously. They gave as much as they could

afford and even more, simply because they wanted to.

They even asked and begged us to let them have the joy of giving their

money for God’s people.”

“Although they were going through hard times and were very poor, they were glad to give generously.” 2 Corinthians 8:2 In this passage, Paul commends the Macedonians in this work of generosity. The Macedonians were facing extremely hard times. Poverty was rampant. People were pushed to their limits – yet they were happy. They gave, pleading for the privilege of helping others. They gave themselves completely to God and let Him work through their lives. What does this say to us today? In early 2009, we face the most challenging economic times since the Great Depression. Incomes and savings are vanishing. This is new territory for most of us. With all of the economic turmoil and uncertainty in the financial markets, what will be the impact on what we give? What do we do with the money we have? Do we continue to give? Do we back off a little? Do we give more? What about the church? Does it continue to minister? Does if back off a little? Does it do more? We need to keep a long-term perspective during this recession and not overreact to the short-term situation. The economy will always be cyclical, but the Church must always hold firm to its God-given vision and not make compromises that will impact future ministries. We should not be anxious during these times, but move as God commands. We must stand firmly on our faith, trust in God, be thankful for our blessings and be willing to share them with others. Remember how God has blessed us. Even in these tough times – especially in these tough times – He is there. Like the Macedonians we need to let the great grace and favor from God make us useful to others and willing to share. The Macedonians made a fresh surrender of themselves, and all they had, to the Lord Jesus Christ. They gave unselfishly, as if they had been rich. We must let this example lead us to share His blessings generously. Give yourselves to Him, lay aside the weight of fear and sin, renew your faith that He will provide. Rejoice as we trust that He will do what He says.

Live in faith – not fear. Share Generously – May 3

First Baptist Church Spring 2009

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE




“I Have Called You Friends” Experienced Adult

Sunday School Retreat

With the author, Dr. Fisher Humphreys

Monte Sano State Park April 23, 2009

Begins at 9:30 a.m. $15.00 per person

For reservations contact the Adult Ministry Office at 428-9403.

Deadline to sign up…Sunday, April 19

* * * *

First Baptist Church Spring Family Campout

April 30- May 2, 2009 Come Early or Come Late

Lake Guntersville State Park

CAMPGROUND: (256) 571-5455

RESORT Information: (256) 571-5440

Each camper is responsible for making their own reservations. At that time you will be required to make the first night’s deposit.

Contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403, to tell us your plans.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Fran Bugg 8720 Edgehill Dr SE Huntsville AL 35802-3642 Wayne Hostetter 990 Hillwood Dr Guntersville AL 35976-1029 Walter G. Nunn 1007 Speake Rd NW Huntsville AL 35816-3535 Susan P. Temple 2441 Bell Manor Dr SW Huntsville AL 35803-3428 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Bill & Betty Lee in the loss of his aunt, Vesta Dickerson Velma Mitchum in the loss of her niece, Jeannettle Riddle Glennice & Ray Swaim in the loss of her cousin, James Hovis, Jr. OUR NEWEST Molly Amanda Burton, daughter of Brian and Lisa Burton, 2300 Nottingham Way, Albany, GA 31707, born March 25, 2009. Proud grandparents are Rhett and Jackie Burton and John and Mary Gamble. Grayson James Harrell, son of Jay and Meg Harrell, 1652 Oscar Patterson Road, New Market, AL 35761, born April 2, 2009.

Are you a new church member? Or, maybe you are a long-time member, and would just enjoy the fellowship.

Join us…THURSDAY, April 23 6:00 p.m. - CLC

Bring a covered dish. Call Myra Haythorn,

837-3107 for information.

Weekday Early Education Ministry Menu April 2009

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

30 Snack: Cheese Puffs/Juice

French Toast Sticks Sausage

Apple Juice Milk

1/2 Banana Snack: Peaches/Crackers/Water

31 Snack: Mixed Cereal/Juice

Pizza Green Salad

Milk Pears

Snack: Vanilla Pudding/Wafers/Water

1 Snack: Applesauce/Crackers/Water

Chicken Fingers Mashed Potatoes

Broccoli Roll Milk

Banana Pudding Snack: Cookies/Juice

2 Snack: Cinnamon Toast/Juice

Hamburger/Cheese (pickles and condiments)

Carrot/Celery Sticks w/Dip (Sliced Carrots for younger

children) Tater Tots/Milk

1/2 Orange Snack: Pretzels/Bugles/Juice

3 Snack: Cream Cheese/Graham

Crackers/Juice Chicken 'n Dumplings

Roll Milk

Peaches Snack: Gingerbread/Juice

6 Snack: Cheese Crackers/Goldfish/Juice

Spaghetti Green Beans

Toast Milk

Applesauce Snack: Chocolate Pudding/Wafers/Water

7 Snack: Cheese/Saltines/Juice

Chicken Nuggets Mashed Potatoes

Green Peas Roll Milk

Chocolate Pudding Snack: Banana/Crackers/Water

8 Snack: Biscuits/Jelly/Juice

Taco Salad (w/lettuce, tomato, salsa)

Cornbread Milk

Pineapple Tidbits Snack: Cookies/Juice

9 Snack: Mandarin Oranges/

Crackers/Water Ham

Sweet Potato Patty Fried Okra

Cornbread Milk Pears

Snack: Bugles/Juice

10

Center Closed Good Friday

13 Snack: Cheese/Saltines/Juice

Pizza Whole Kernel Corn

Milk Applesauce

Snack: Vanilla Pudding/Butter Cookies/Water

14 Snack: Pretzels/Bugles/Juice

Chicken Fingers Macaroni & Cheese

Green Beans Cornbread/Milk

Cookie Snack: Applesauce/Crackers/Water

15 Snack: Cinnamon Toast

Ravioli Green Salad

Toast Pears

Milk Snack: Cookies/Juice

16 Snack: Mandarin Oranges/

Crackers/Water French Toast Sticks

Sausage Apple Juice/Milk

Peaches Snack: Cookies/Juice

17 Snack: Cheese Crackers/

Goldfish/Juice Meat Loaf

Mashed Potatoes Green Peas

Roll Milk Vanilla Pudding Snack: Blueberry Muffin/Juice


Sausage & Shells Green Beans

Whole Kernel Corn Roll Milk Cookie

Snack: Pretzels/Bugles/Juice

21 Snack: Cream Cheese/Graham

Crackers/Juice Fish Sticks

Baked Beans Cole Slaw Roll Milk

Chocolate Pudding Snack: Peaches/Crackers/Water

22 Snack: Pineapple Tidbits/Crackers

Water Beef-Vegetable Soup

Cheese Toast Milk 1/2 Banana

Snack: Cookies/Juice


Lasagna Broccoli Roll Milk Peaches

Snack: Cheese Crackers/Goldfish/Juice

24 Snack: Snack Mix/Juice


Carrot/Celery Sticks w/Dip (sliced carrots for younger)

Tater Tots Milk Applesauce

Snack: Sugar Cookies/Juice

27 Snack: Cheese Puffs/Juice

French Toast Sticks Sausage

Apple Juice Milk

1/2 Banana Snack: Peaches/Crackers/Water

28 Snack: Mixed Cereal/Juice

Pizza Green Salad

Milk Pears

Snack: Vanilla Pudding/Wafers/Water

29 Snack: Applesauce/Crackers/Water

Chicken Fingers Mashed Potatoes

Broccoli Roll Milk

Banana Pudding Snack: Cookies/Juice



Carrot/Celery Sticks w/Dip (Sliced Carrots for younger

children) Tater Tots/Milk

1/2 Orange Snack: Pretzels/Bugles/Juice

** Due to the supplier, there may

be some substitutions. **

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor The scene at the empty tomb ended with Jesus encouraging Mary to go share generously. “Go to my brothers and say to them . . .” The glad story of Easter is to be shared with others. In the days after Easter we pick up the theme “Share

Generously.” These words capture a stewardship emphasis of our church that will climax on a special day of giving on May 3. This theme also helps us to remember what we are doing on Saturday as we are “Serving the City” in the name of Christ. We go to tell our brothers and sisters about the meaning of Easter. Each week we will think about “sharing generously” as a way of life for followers of Christ. I look forward to worship with you in the days that are ahead. Holy Week and Easter were glorious. The month after Easter can be as well! Message Series: “Share Generously” April 19 “A Shared Story” Luke 24:36-49 The wonderful good news of Easter is a story that we can all share. April 26 “A Shared Ministry” II Corinthians 8:1-7

We can all join in the ministry of the church through the gifts that we offer to God.

May 3 “A Shared Home” Psalm 84 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

Sharing does not always mean giving. Sometimes it means that we are willing to receive the gift of God’s home that is being shared with us.

May 10 “A Shared Blessing” Romans 15:28-29 Mother’s Day

One of the greatest gifts that we can share with our family and friends is the gift of blessing.

Saturday, April 18 “Serving the City”

* * * * * Sunday, April 19

New message series begins: “Share Generously”

Sunday’s Sermon: “A Shared Story” - Luke 24:36-49

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.

Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music: Sanctuary Choir with

Soloist Christie Weber


FOUNDATIONS “Preparing for the Brahms Requiem” Taught by David Hull and Billy Orton

December 18, 2008

April 16, 2009

“Although they were

going through hard times and were very poor,

they were glad to give generously. They gave as much as they could afford

and even more, simply because they wanted to. They even asked and begged us

to let them have the joy of giving their money for God’s people.”

May 3

Ministry Calendar Sunday, April 19 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM FBC Adventures/Parlor 2:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM Boy Scouts Comm/342 4:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’ s Bible Study/242 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM “Riding the Roller Coaster”/309/310 5:00 PM “Serving the City” Reflections/FH 6:30 PM Monday, April 20 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Orchestra Reh/CR/Sanct 7:00 PM Tuesday, April 21 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 22 WEE Breakfast/WEE Hall 7:00 AM Precept Bible Study 9:00 AM WEE PreK Program/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, April 23 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM Exp. Adult SS Retreat 9:00 AM-3:00 PM Monte Sano Lodge WEE Chapel/Chapel 9:30 AM “Daybeak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Mommy Time/Parlor 6:00 PM “Town Hall for Hope” Telecast/FH 7:00 PM Friday, April 24 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Scrapbooking/CLC 8:30 AM Fellowship Club Trip 10:30 AM-3:30 PM Kempaner-Hearne Wed Reh 5:00 PM Sanct & Parlor Saturday, April 25 Scrapbooking/CLC 8:00 AM-9:00 PM Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon Kempaner-Hearne Wedding 6:00 PM Sanct & Parlor


The Brahms Requiem Sunday, May 3, 2009 5:00 p.m. A BICENTENNIAL PRESENTATION In Remembrance, Thanksgiving and Celebration of the saints who have served Christ during the 200 years of ministry at FBC, Huntsville (1809-1009) Our Music Ministry has been hard at work for months on this masterpiece of choral and orchestral repertoire and is very excited about presenting it within the context of faith during this special year in our church’s history. Our preparations have already resulted in incredible growth in musicianship as we have immersed ourselves in such a work, and the scriptures that Brahms chose for his “German Requiem” have provided incredible strength to many of our singers and an expression of praise and worship that is unparalleled. The project has truly represented one of the most significant endeavors ever undertaken by the FBC Music Ministry. Johannes Brahms, of course, is one of the greatest composers of all time. His music represents the deepest in human emotion and the highest points of artistic expression. A German Requiem is said to be the best loved choral/orchestral work in the world behind Handel’s Messiah. The essential message of Brahms’ Requiem is that sorrow will be turned to joy. As Psalm 126 in the first movement will remind us, sowing tears will eventually lead to reaping joy. We are performing the Requiem in English, by the way. Even though it is entitled A German Requiem , Brahms intended the work to be done in the language of the people. Our Sanctuary Choir will be augmented a bit in the presentation by the presence of some singers from sister churches in the faith community of our city. The orchestra will be made up of selected players from the FBC Orchestra and some guest instrumentalists from the community. Soloists are Christie Weber and Van Arc Wright, two young adults from our city who are each embarking upon careers as professional singers. You will meet them in Sanctuary Worship services later this month. You are warmly invited to attend two special sessions of Foundations on Sunday evenings April 19 and 26 at 5 p.m. as David Hull and Billy Orton teach on the background and message of the Brahms Requiem. These sessions will help you to more fully appreciate and understand the presentation on May 3. Above all, you are invited to pray now for the May 3 presentation. Pray for the many performers as they continue to prepare some of the most challenging music that any of them has ever done. Pray for the power of the scriptures to be heard and felt. Give thanks to God for the 200 years of saints who have gone before and whose ministries we are celebrating in the Requiem. And……invite your friends and associates!

CALENDAR REMINDERS

Experienced Adult SS Retreat, Monte Sano, April 23 Ladies’ Day Trip to Amish Country—April 28

Spring Family Campout - Guntersville - April 30 - May 2 Choir Presentation of the Brahms Requiem - May 3

Stephen Ministry Workshop - May 9 Music & Missions Recognition Service - May 17

Canoeing & Trout Fishing Trip - Arkansas - May 28 - June 1 Bi-Centennial Homecoming Weekend - June 13-14

Student M-Fuge - June 15-20 Vacation Bible School – June 22-25.

Sports Camp - June 8-10. (Registration is May 4-29) Music Camp for Children - July 6-12

A Parenting Discussion led by Jack and Amanda Ragland of The Vine Counseling Center, Inc.

Sunday, April 19, at 5:00 PM in the Student Big Room (309/310)

Discussion: where are the limits between healthy and unhealthy relating to time, activities, hanging out

and everything else your child wants to do.

Student Ministries Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students FYI

Menu

Wednesday, April 22

Adults Lasagna

Green Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad






This Week $145,323.87 YTD $2,353,361.24


ATTENDANCE - April 12, 2009

Sunday School



CANOEING AND TROUT FISHING TRIP —

INDIVIDUAL OR FAMILY Thursday, May 28 through

Monday, June 1.

Interest meeting will be this Sunday, April 19, 2:00 p.m.

In the Church Parlor.


TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT MONEY Staff writer Linda Matchan had a great piece in the Globe the other day, offering advice from therapists on handling the hard choices parents often have to make when times are tough. But if you have never discussed money with your kids and you need to now in order to handle a financial crisis, figuring out how can be difficult. Our kids range in age from “Oooh, something shiny! Can I eat it?” to “But all of my friends have cell phones” to “What car will I be driving when I get my license this fall?” The challenge, for us, is to address their very different levels of concern without making any of them feel insecure or fearful. It can be hard to stay up-beat and still be realistic. Here are a few tips to try: Be open and honest, but don't over-explain. Jamie Woolf, author of Mom in Chief, suggests that parents should answer kids’ questions and respond to their concerns, but not delve into all the details. “For example, you may be worried about your college savings, but your ten year-old daughter is not likely to lose sleep over it,” she writes on her blog. Let the kids help you save. If the kids feel like they're helping you save money, being more frugal can become a source of pride rather than frustration. Let your little kids hold the coupons while you shop for groceries. Grade school-aged children can be tasked with shutting off lights at home when they're not in use. Teens can help track their own expenses and learn how to cut costs. Embrace inexpensive or free activities and homemade gifts, and find ways to make your entertainment dollars do double duty. (For instance, buying a family membership to a local museum is a tax-deductible way to enrich your kids lives and help the community at the same time.) Be consistent. Kids crave stability, and you’re not doing them any favors by deciding to splurge “just this once.” If you do, when the next opportunity to spend comes around, you won’t have a leg to stand on. Show them how to budget. Parents are split on the allowance issue -- should you tie it to chores or just give them the money? -- but you give your children an allowance, take the opportunity to talk to them about how to save and how much to spend. If your kids are really young and money has no real meaning to them yet, start with something they do understand -- like treats. Can your 6-year-old make a very small bag of candy last a week? That's basic budgeting. Be willing to meet older kids part way. If you budget $25 for jeans and your teenager wants a much more expensive pair, tell her that you’re willing to pay for part of it -- but she has to come up with the rest. According to Chick Moorman and Thomas Haller, authors of The 10 Commitments: Parenting with a Purpose, saying so “curbs feelings of entitlement and allows children to take ownership for achieving their desires.” Remember that, as a parent, your job is to set limits. “You’re not depriving your children” points out Dr. Michelle New at KidsHealth.org, “you’re teaching them important lessons about delaying gratification, earning treats and rewards, and about family finances.”

Lylah M. Alphonse is a Globe staff member and mom and stepmom to five kids. This is from Child Caring: parenting news and advice.

Sunday—April 26 Starting at 3:00 PM

in the FBC Parking Lot

Sign up in teams of 4-6 students on the sheet outside Jamie’s office. A driver will be assigned to the

group. We will meet up for a group cookout at a “sight to be found.” Geocaching is a high tech GPS-

driven scavenger hunt. Lots of FUN!

Graduate Family Dinner—Saturday, May 16 Graduate Sunday—Sunday, May 17

High Sch Seniors—have you turned in your material? College—we list your name, school, & degree in

Sunday’s worship program. To be listed, please turn in your information by May 1.



Early Adulthood Ministry Pam McDaniel, Minister to Young and Median Adults

Ladies’ Fellowship Opportunity DAY TRIP TO THE AMISH COUNTRY IN ETHRIDGE, TN

Tuesday, April 28

Cost: $8.00/person, payable to FBC when you sign up; other individual expenses include your travel, lunch, and any shopping you may do.

To signup see Sherry in the Adult Ministry Office ([email protected]; 428-9403). Signup deadline: Wed, April 22. For more information, contact Kim Mims ([email protected], 883-2167). Plans are: 9:15 AM Depart from FBC East Entrance. Carpool to Lawrenceburg,TN (1½ hr drive). 11:00 AM Eat lunch together at The Brass Lantern. We will have a group reservation; Order from menu; Cost, $10 or less. 12:15 PM Drive to the Amish Welcome Center in Ethridge, TN. 12:30 PM Enjoy a 1 ½ hour horse-drawn wagon tour of the Amish Country. 2:00 PM Enjoy free time/shopping; Return home based on individual scheduling needs (allow 1 ½ hours for drive home).

Young Adults – college, 20s, 30s. . . Do you have questions about Jesus? About faith? About life?

You are invited to join us for

Forum /for Him/. . . a meeting place for open discussion

Bible study, prayer, conversation, friendship Wednesdays @ 8:00 PM

Dinner provided FBC Christian Life Center

Check us out at “Forum Huntsville” on Facebook [email protected]

You are invited to be part of the conversation . . .

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Julianna Darby 360 Douglass Rd NW Huntsville AL 35806-2216 Carelese Hinton 3201 Cove Cross Rd SE Owens Cross Roads AL 35763-7005 Blake Sadler 917 N Cleermont Cir SE Huntsville AL 35801-1637 Hannah Splawn 1311 Old Carriage Ln SE Huntsville AL 35802-2766 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Laurie & Ben Gibbons in the loss of her sister-in-law and Matthew, Sarah, and Caleb Gibbons in the loss of their aunt, Darlene McNabb Buford & Dot Whitt in the loss of his sister, Leverl Mullins Mary & Homer Wilson in the loss of her sister-in-law, Patricia Yeager OUR NEWEST Cariann Keller Beatty and Camile Walker Beatty, twin daughters of Sloan and Cindy Beatty, 2017 Eagle Valley Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242, born April 6, 2009. Proud grandparents are Bill and Escoe Beatty.

AT HIS FEET

Intercessory Prayer Ministry Team

“Because Your loving kindness is better than life, my life shall praise You. Thus, I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hand in Your name.” Psalm 63:3-4

AUTOMATED PRAYER LINE: 428-9460

Judson College Recruitment Party

Saturday, April 25, 2009 10:00 A.M.

Patio Room - CLC

Hosted by local alumnae of Judson College

for prospective students and parents.

More information: 800-447-9472 or www.judson.edu

October 30, 2008


We are now less than two months away from the focal point of our church Bicentennial Celebration. Let’s review what will be happening in June as we celebrate our anniversary. Church History Book – On Wednesday night,

June 3, we plan to introduce the new church history book and offer it for sale. The author of the book, Dr. Bruce Gourley, will be with us to speak that night. Baptist History and Heritage Society Meeting – On June 4-6 we will host the annual meeting of the Baptist History and Heritage Society. This meeting will recognize the 200 years of our church and the 400 years of Baptists as a movement. The Society has made available free guest registration for this meeting to all of our church members. More details will come later about the schedule for this meeting. If you have an interest, you may want to put it on your calendar now. Youth Choir and Tour Choir Reunion – Beginning Friday, June 12, members from the Tour Choir and the Youth Choir from the past are gathering for a reunion. A reception will be held on Friday night, with a choir practice on Saturday morning. The group will sing in worship on Sunday morning. Because we do not have a comprehensive mailing list of all former members of these choirs, we need your help. If you know of someone who was in these groups, please share this information with them. Direct them to our web site for more details about the Reunion. Bicentennial Banquet – Saturday night, June 13, we will enjoy a banquet at the VBC for the entire church. This banquet will be a large “birthday party” for First Baptist. Former pastors Allen Walworth and Dennis Wiles will speak. Beautiful music will be presented. Visual images on the screens will take you back in history to remember people who have been a big part of the history of the church. The most amazing birthday cake that you have ever seen will be unveiled. And more . . . and more. Invitations will go out in May. Mark the date on your calendar now! Homecoming Day – Sunday, June 14, will be a day of worship and fellowship. The day begins with a time for gathering and greeting before Sunday School. Following the Bible Study hour we will gather in one worship service at 10:30. (First Fellowship will not meet on that day.)Former pastors J. T. Ford and Ralph Langley will participate in the service as well as the Reunion Choir. Following worship we will have “dinner on the grounds” with time for all to fellowship as long as you like. I am excited about what is to come. Will you join us for the grand celebration?

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Sermon: “A Shared Ministry” II Corinthians 8:1-7



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir sings an excerpt

from the Brahms Requiem Guest Soloist, Van Arc Wright Music from FBC Orchestra


FOUNDATIONS Second Session of

“Preparing for the Brahms Requiem” Taught by David Hull and Billy Orton


BICENTENNIAL PRESENTATION In Remembrance, Thanksgiving and Celebration of the

saints who have served Christ during the 200 years of ministry at FBC, Huntsville

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. ~Heb. 12:1-2

RequiemRequiemRequiem

JOHANNES BRAHMS

May 3, 2009May 3, 2009May 3, 2009 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. --- Sanctuary Sanctuary Sanctuary

Ministry Calendar Sunday, April 26 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM MOPS Set-up 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM Brahms Requiem Reh/CR,Sanct 3:00 PM Boy Scouts Comm/342 4:00 PM Financial Peace/Parlor 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Men’ s Bible Study/242 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Stu. Fun Night/Off campus 6:00 PM Monday, April 27 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM MOPS Mtg/118B,C 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Orchestra Reh/CR/Sanct 7:00 PM Tuesday, April 28 Amish Tour/Off Campus Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, April 29 Precept Bible Study 9:00 AM WEE PreK Program/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Missions Strategy/ Parlor 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, April 30 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE Chapel/Chapel 9:30 AM ESL Volunteer Luncheon/118 11:15 AM “Daybreak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Brahms Requiem Reh/CR,Sanct 6:30 PM Friday, May 1 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM Behel-Turner Reh/Chapel 5:30 PM MOPS/CLC 6:00 PM Saturday, May 2 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon Brahms Requiem Dress Reh 10:00 AM-12:00 CR, Sanct Behel-Turner Wedding/Chapel 4:00 PM


“Thank you” for a great “Serving the City” day. Details will be published next issue.

Mike

LIBRARY NEWS

Have you visited the FBC Library web page lately? There you’ll find book reviews, a list of new books, information on making library donations in memory or in honor of someone, descriptions of the different types of materials found in the library – and you can even search the library’s catalog from home or work. Check out http://www.fbchsv.org/library to learn more.

Here is a sample of some of the new items and authors the library has recently acquired:

The Case for the Real Jesus - Lee Strobel (232.9 Str)

Evidence for the Resurrection - Josh McDowell (232.97 McD)

Take One - Karen Kingsbury (F Kin)

Age Before Beauty - Virginia Smith (F Smi)

Dakota December - Laurraine Snelling (F Sne)

Eyewitness Dinosaur - David Norman (J567.9 Nor)

There's a Princess in Me - Sheila Walsh (CE Wal)

California Brides - Cathy Marie Hake (F Hak)

NEEDED…... SEWING MACHINES, SCISSORS, THREAD,

NEEDLES AND

WILLING WORKERS

Tuesday, May 5, 9:30 a.m. Room 118 Projects to be done for Girls in Action

and children in Huntsville Hospital

ESL MINISTRY Our English as a Second Language (ESL) Ministry needs someone for the upcoming year (mid-August through mid-May) to coordinate childcare workers during our Thursday morning ESL classes. Please prayerfully consider helping with this ministry and contact Tina Darby. Ideally, it would be helpful to observe the person currently filling this role. Tina Darby 837-5699


YOU’RE INVITED!!! What:................................National Scrapbook Day Event When:..............................................Saturday, April 25th Time:............................................... 9:00am to 9:00pm Location: ......................... First Baptist Church, Huntsville; Christian Life Center Cost:.................................$20 per person, includes lunch; pre-paid registration guarantees workspace 12 hours of dedicated time and space for album -making projects. Space is limited and going fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a day scrapbooking with friends. Contact Kay Bugg

today if you are interested! (256) 828-2700 or [email protected]

June 8th – 10th & 9am – 2pm Completed K through Completed 3rd Grade

Registration: May 4th – 29th at the CLC Cost: $40 ($35 for additional siblings)

Coming soon to the CLC…

We are currently in the process of converting one of our Racquetball rooms into a smaller weight and exercise room. Soon we will offer cardio and weight equipment on both the first and second floors of the CLC. More info to come…

FYI Menu

Wednesday, April 29 Adults

Grilled Chicken - Rosemary Potatoes

Calico Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad




EASTER SERMON Printed copies of Dr. Hull’s Easter sermon, “Sowing Tears. . .Reaping Joy,” are available in the literature racks, at the welcome centers, and in the church office.



This Week $39,779.59 YTD $2,393,140.83

Debt Retirement: This Week $380.00 YTD $47,895.72 ATTENDANCE REPORT

April 19, 2009

Sunday School



THANK YOU FBC 3,112 pairs of socks

were collected Our collection will be combined with other CBF churches in our state and given to the 7,000 children in Alabama foster care and the children of Perry County through Sewing Seeds of Hope.

VBS

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

BORROW Pop-up type canopy “tents” Large baskets “Oriental” rugs Large “silk” plants Large (old looking) pottery

DONATE Old solid color sheets Large boxes, Xerox & appliance kind Paper grocery sacks

June 22-25 Monday – Thursday

9:00-12:00

Preschool and Children workers still needed.

Call today to secure your volunteer location. 428-9411





Helen Keller on

“I remember the morning that I first asked the meaning of the word ‘love…” Miss Sullivan put her arm gently round me and spelled into my hand,

“I love Helen.” “What is love?” I asked.

“Love is something like the clouds that were in the sky before the sun came out” she replied. “You cannot touch the clouds, but you feel the rain and know how glad the

flowers and the thirsty earth are to have it after a hot day. You cannot touch love either; but you feel the sweetness that it pours into everything. Without love you would not be

happy or want to play.” The beautiful truth burst upon my mind--I felt that these were invisible lines stretched

between my spirit and the spirits of others.”

As I look back on the last couple of weeks I am reminded again and again of the Love of God as it was and is demonstrated through God’s people. It began with Holy Week and the services that led us up to Easter, then this past Saturday where hundreds of people went out into our city and shared the Love of God through service. It is my prayer that we continue to become Easter people, allowing God to shape the way we work and live each day. “Living a Live Worth Sharing and Sharing a Life Worth Living” each and every day.

FOOTPRINTS FROM THE PAST DR. LANGLEY HAD AN UNCLE WHO LED FBC, TOO By Ralph Langley, Pastor Emeritus I’m so glad to note that in the colorful history pages of FBC I have a beloved uncle. He was the Rev. Dr. Wilson Monroe Blackwelder, brother of my maternal grandmother. He served as pastor from 1917 till 1925. He was a graduate of Auburn and our seminary at Louisville, KY. When he left this church he became pastor of FBC-Decatur--and from there founded Central Baptist Church of Decatur. He would later serve several Baptist churches of Birmingham; he finished his ministry as chaplain of the Baptist hospitals of Birmingham. The Blackwelder years here were marked by new growth in the city and our church. But those same years were punctuated with the tragic national epidemic of influenza, as well as World War I. Our North Alabama veterans needed a warm -hearted minister friend--and found him in the Blackwelder man of FBC. As the war raged on, an amazing 34 young men went off to fight from our First Baptist, including two sons of the Blackwelders. And amazingly all 34 came home safely to Alabama at the war’s victorious end in 1918. On December 22, 1921, The Huntsville Times ran a story commending the Blackwelders for leadership and loving devotion to the church and to the whole city.

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Lisa & Randall Belk in the loss of her uncle and Ashley Belk in the loss of her great-uncle, Bill Gober Bianca & Richard Cox in the loss of her sister-in-law, Randall & Patricia Cox in the loss of his aunt, and Douglas, Catherine, and Jennifer Cox in the loss of their great-aunt, Judy Polk Jean Drake in the loss of her daughter-in-law, Margaret Manning Family and friends of our member, Amelia Maddox, especially to her son, Phil & Nita Maddox, and her grandchildren, Andrew, Clara, Catherine, and Rebecca Maddox Pat Martin in the loss of her sister-in-law, Leisa & Mike Smith in the loss of her aunt, and Jenna Brown and Bryan Smith in the loss of their great-aunt, Wendell Bledsoe Pat Martin in the loss of her mother-in-law, Leisa & Mike Smith in the loss of her grandmother, and Jenna Brown and Bryan Smith in the loss of their great-grandmother, Lucille Martin Family and friends of our member, Martha K. Phillips Jenny & Tommy Sisco in the loss of her grandfather and Andrew and Caroline Sisco in the loss of their great-grandfather, Carroll L. Sacre OUR NEWEST Carter Michael Freeman, son of Carole & Kevin Freeman, 604 W. 27th Street, Lumberton, NC 28358. Proud grandparents are Charlene and Jerry Graham.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, May 8

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Program:

“Downsizing Your Home and Your Life” Speakers: Mr. & Mrs. Hennessee

Menu: Ham, Sweet Potato Patties, Cole Slaw,

Roll, Dessert Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107,

for reservations.

Thanks

A thank you note has been received from Sallie Keith. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the church office.

October 30, 2008


Share Generously. These two words express the stewardship theme for our church as we prepare for a special offering next Sunday. You will be receiving a letter with an offering envelope this week. I encourage you to do the following:

Try tithing. Give 10% of your income as you return the tithe to God. Perhaps tithing is not a regular practice for you. Let this Sunday be a time to try out this biblical principle for stewardship. Share Generously – and learn the joys of tithing.

Catch Up. It is easy to fall behind in our offerings to God. You may have

committed to a path of stewardship for the year but are not where you had hoped to be at this time. Sunday will give all of us a chance to get back on track with our giving. Share Generously – and catch up on your giving.

Give from your abundance. Sometimes we receive financial blessings

that we did not plan to receive. It gives us an opportunity to give an extra amount beyond what we had pledged or planned. Share Generously – and offer a gift in gratitude for the wondrous blessings of your life.

Like the Macedonians that are mentioned in II Corinthians 8 who “gave according to their means, and even beyond their means, begging earnestly for the privilege of sharing in this ministry to the saints” we can Share Generously as we all participate in the calling of God to serve in ministry through our church. I pray that the “abundant joy” known by the Macedonians as they gave will overwhelm us as well! Share Generously . . . this Sunday. In that same spirit of generous sharing, why don’t you share an invitation with a friend and bring them with you to the Brahms Requiem on Sunday night? I look forward to seeing you Sunday --- in the morning and the evening. It will be a great day of worship. ATTENTION ALL PAST YOUTH CHOIR AND TOUR CHOIR MEMBERS Please make your plans to attend the YOUTH CHOIR and TOUR CHOIR reunion the weekend of the Bicentennial Celebration at First Baptist Church June 12 – 14, 2009. We have received a number of reservations but we need more! We have not heard from many of you from the 1990-2000 time era and it won’t be the same without you! Please check the church web site and click on the fbc200.org site and find the sign-up form under Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion in the side bar. Please register and join us for this historic event. You’ll be glad you did. Please spread the word. Schedule for the weekend: Friday, June 12, 7 to 10 pm Fellowship in the Christian Life Center Saturday, June 13 at 9:30, Rehearsal in the choir room Sunday, June 14 Rehearsal at the church prior to 10:30 Worship Service

Sunday, May 3, 2009 Sermon: “A Shared Home”

Psalm 84 Observance of The Lord’s Supper

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music from Youth Band


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir sings “How Lovely Are Thy Dwellings”- Brahms

The FBC Men’s Ensemble sings “Table of Grace” Harp offertory solo by Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen

Sunday Evening

5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary

Presentation of the Brahms Requiem BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

In Remembrance, Thanksgiving, and Celebration of the saints who have served Christ during the 200 years of ministry at

FBC, Huntsville


This Sunday you are being asked to “Share Generously” of your financial resources. Even though we face un-certain economic times, the body of Christ must continue to respond to the physical and spiritual needs of

the people in our community and around the world. This requires an individual response from each of us to honor God by being good stewards of the gifts with which God has blessed us. Although our emphasis this Sunday is on financial blessings, we are reminded that our stewardship extends to our time and talents as well. There is more work to be done and God has and is equipping us for His service. Let’s follow the example of the early Christians in Macedonia and be “found faithful in generous giving even though they were going through hard times.” You will receive a special “Share Generously” offering envelope in the mail this week. Whether your gift represents 10%, 20% or a simple sacrifice, re-spond to the blessings you have received from God by giving back to His Church on Sunday.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, May 3 First Fellowship/Lord’s Supper/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Lord’s Supper 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM Brahms Requiem Concert/Sanct 5:00 PM Monday, May 4 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Reh/CR 10:30 AM Hallelujah Choir Luncheon/FH 12:00 PM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM Tuesday, May 5 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WMU/118 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, May 6 Precept Bible Study 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells/329 4:15 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Discipleship Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd and 3rd Floor 5:25 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Celebration Comm Mtg/117 7:00 PM Saxophone Ensemble/Sanct 7:30 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, May 7 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE Chapel/Chapel 9:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Friday, May 8 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM WEE Mother’s Day/Parlor 8:00 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Belk Piano Reh/Sanct 3:30 PM Saturday, May 9 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon Stephen Ministry 9:00AM—1:00 PM Conference/FH/118 Cooper Piano Recital/Sanct Loft 10:00 AM Belk Piano Recital/Sanct 2:00 PM


The Brahms Requiem This Sunday, May 3, 5 pm “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses……” These words from Hebrews 12 have been deeply meaningful as our church has observed her bicentennial anniversary this year. We have seen how the footprints of earlier generations have helped to lead us to this point in time. We have acknowledged again and again our thanksgiving for those who have gone before. To God be the glory! This weekend’s presentation of A German Requiem is being offered in remembrance, thanksgiving, and celebration of the saints who have served Christ through the ministries of FBC during these 200 years. The names on the front of the program will be representative of countless others in the history of this church who “ran the race with perseverance” and bore witness to the truths being proclaimed Sunday in the masterwork by Johannes Brahms. The texts he handpicked and set to such beautiful music have much to teach us about living in the 21st century as well as about our eternal hope. Brahms (1833-1897) composed the work over the period of several years and was greatly influenced by the deaths of his dear friend and mentor Robert Schumann and later his own mother. It premiered on Good Friday, April 10, 1868, with the composer conducting, a performance that catapulted his stature to international acclaim. The structure of this Requiem is that of a seven-movement arch, with movement four at the top and, significantly, containing the sublime comfort of Psalm 84 (“How lovely are Thy dwellings, O Lord of hosts”). Movements one and seven bear great similarity, as both convey blessings (movement one blesses those who mourn, and movement seven finally offers blessing to those “who die in the Lord”). Movements two and six are the longest and are also linked in their overall structure (both starting with thoughts on our mortality and ending with grand, joyous fugues of praise and rejoicing). The arch form is further seen in the linkages between movements three and five (both are very personal in nature, with the soloist/choir laments of movement three seeking comfort and hope and the tender soloist/choir expressions of movement five offering deep comfort). The Music Ministry of FBC is honored to have a number of friends from sister churches who will be performing with us May 3. The presence of others in the “faith community” assisting with such a significant musical challenge is deeply appreciated. Our presentation of “the Brahms” is intended as far more than strictly a performance. We love this work and have been greatly challenged and inspired by our experience with it this Spring. We will offer it Sunday as an act of worship. Our own faith in God’s incredible love and power has been strengthened. May it be so as you listen with both head and heart. May you also be reminded of those who have gone on before us, whose footprints we follow. And, may we depart reminded that we are God’s people! --Billy Orton Minister of Music and Worship

* * * * * The Hallelujah Choir will sing on Sunday morning, May 10.

The Youth Choir will sing on Sunday morning, May 17. * * * * *

Music and Missions Recognition Service – May 17, at 5 pm in the Sanctuary The children who have been growing through Music and Missions ministries will share what they have been learning and will lead all of us in a very special service of celebration on Sunday night, May 17th, at 5 pm in the Sanctuary. Our children have worked hard to prepare for this wonderful opportunity to share with our church family and friends – please make plans to attend! You will certainly be blessed! Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion—June 12-14, 2009 Help spread the word to all former members of the youth music groups here at FBC! Registration is available online at www.fbchsv.org

FYI Menu

Wednesday, May 6

Adults

Turkey/Dressing Green Beans

Cranberry Sauce Roll - Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 30—April 26, 2009


This Week $86,648.45 YTD $2,479,789.28


ATTENDANCE April 26, 2009

Sunday School



NEEDED…...

SEWING MACHINES, SCISSORS, THREAD,

NEEDLES AND

WILLING WORKERS

Tuesday, May 5, 9:30 a.m.

Room 118 Projects to be done for Girls in Action and children in

Huntsville Hospital


Our FBC students spent this past Sunday tracking down the historical spots of First Baptist Church? Their monthly FUN Night fellowship was a geocaching expedition that took them from our current FBC site to places like the previous site at Clinton and Gallatin, the graves of former pastors in Maple Hill Cemetery, and concluded out at the west fork of the Flint River. We express our gratitude to the many that helped with this event!

Weekly Events Sunday School—9:15 AM

Wacky Wednesdays Lunch at 11:59 AM Mission Project at 1:30-5:00 PM Games & Devotion at 6:00-7:00 PM

Summer Sunday Nights—June 7, July 12, & August 2 Summer Mission Camp (M-Fuge)—June 15-20 Student Family Day at the Lake—June 28 Hungary International Mission Trip—July 15-26 Hungary Report & Family Picnic—August 9

Hungary Mission Trip participants will soon be coming

to Sunday school classes asking the church to partner

with the team in praying for the trip and for the Adkins’ ministry

in Pecs, Hungary. Also, the mission team will be

enlisting people to be a part of a 12-day, 24-hour a day prayer vigil while they are on the trip. Stay tuned for more details.


VBS

SUPPLIES NEEDED:




9:00-12:00



Students at the original Enon “Log” Church site




Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

David & MeKyoung VanBuren Emily, Sarah, and Joshua VanBuren 2521 Millwood Cir SE Huntsville, AL 35803-7908

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY

Janice & Paul Allison in the loss of her brother-in-law, Bill Moon

Family and friends of our member, Jewel Craig

Ray & Alene Donaldson in the loss of his sister-in-law, Audra Mae Donaldson

Susan & Scott Field in the loss of her aunt and David and Ellen Field in the loss of their great aunt, Lorene Grainger

Mary & John Gamble in the loss of her aunt, Helen McKinney

John & Diane Gordon in the loss of his uncle and Jimmy and Mary Beth Gordon in the loss of their great-uncle, Oren Clem

Virginia & Earl Noe in the loss of her brother, Glenn & Terri Brown in the loss of his uncle, Teresa & James Bailey in the loss of her uncle, and Andrew and Jonathan Bailey in the loss of their great-uncle, Waine Brown

ESL MINISTRY Our English as a Second Language (ESL) Ministry needs someone for the upcoming year (mid-August through mid-May) to coordinate childcare workers during our Thursday morning ESL classes. Please prayerfully consider helping with this ministry and contact Tina Darby (837-5699). Ideally, it would be helpful to observe the person currently filling this role.

You are cordially invited to attend the graduation ceremony for

Christian Women’s Job Corps® of Madison County, Inc.

Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 pm

Hillsboro Heights Baptist Church 3614 Drake Avenue SW

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, May 8


“Retail Real Estate & Issues for Seniors” Speakers: Mr. & Mrs. Hennessee

Menu: Ham, Sweet Potato Patties, Cole Slaw,

Roll, Dessert Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107, to rsvp.

PLEASE NOTE

New FBC Emailing Lists Policy In an effort to make our FBC emailing list system more secure and more efficient, we are in the process of developing new policies for our emailing lists. The purpose of our emailing lists is to distribute church or class specific information to our members (Sunday School classes, choirs, deacons, total membership, hospital list, etc.)

We ask that from this point on all mail to [email protected] should be directly related to the class/group or to FBC. For example, please don't send humor emails or columns, chain letters, other people's inspirational poetry/stories, want ads, political emails, or any off-topic information to our lists. These types of emails are one way that viruses and security threats are spread. They occupy valuable space on our system and many members object to receiving this type of email through our email lists. If you have any comments or questions you may contact [email protected]. Thank you for helping us keep our email system secure, efficient, and pertinent to church-related issues. FBC Computer Committee

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

On Wednesday night, May 13, we will have a Quarterly Business Meeting during the Prayer Meeting hour. You will hear several reports about the life of our church. One recommendation will come to you from the

Leadership Council that needs some advance notice. Let me explain what is going to be presented. On May 4 of last year we voted to move ahead with a facility expansion and renovation program. In November we voted to delay this work due to the concerns related to the potential for capital stewardship gifts in this economy. In March we voted to move ahead with the purchase of new television equipment and Sanctuary audio equipment. We are working now on the implementation of these two projects. So what happens next? Our Leadership Council will recommend to the Business Meeting that we form a Building Committee that will work on the facility expansion and renovation project from this point forward. Our Facilities Planning Committee has done an excellent job of planning and preparing us for this construction project. After years of hard work, they need to receive a pat on the back and a “job well done” from all of us. A new Building Committee will lead us forward to the completion of the project. As you see these folks around the church, please offer your special thanks to them for their service on the Facilities Planning Committee: Mike Kirk, Chair, Janice Allison, Kimberly Collette, Jeff Gattis, Jan Mann, Chris O’Neil, Gordon Perry, Christy Taylor. They have done excellent work, and I am most grateful for the faithful, creative service. Once the Building Committee is formed, it will then be prepared to move ahead when the church decides that the timing is right for a capital stewardship campaign and a construction project. We will continue to pray about the right time for us to move ahead. In the meantime, the Building Committee can be getting oriented to their task and can make preparations for the work that is to come. I hope that you will come to the Business Meeting so that we can all join in the discussion and the vote on this important step forward. The footprints continue . . .

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Sermon: “A Shared Blessing” Romans 15:28-29



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music by The Hallelujah Choir

Offertory music from FBC Orchestra

No evening service or activities

December 18, 2008 May 7, 2009

Baptist History & Heritage Society Annual Meeting

First Baptist Church, Huntsville, Alabama June 4-6, 2009

Although registration will be necessary, most meetings will be free to members of

FBC Huntsville as the host congregation.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, May 10 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Family Dedication Gathering/ 10:00 AM Chapel Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/ 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM No Evening Activities Monday, May 11 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM WEE Ministry/CLC 10:00 AM Roundtable/42 12:00 PM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, May 12 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/CLC 10:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM HAP Brd Mtg/241 6:30 PM Wednesday, May 13 WEE Spring Celebr/CLC 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Precept Bible Study 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev. Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M Recognition 5:25 PM Rehearsal/2nd,3rd Floor,Sanct Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/140 & 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM Forum Bible Study/CLC 8:00 PM Thursday, May 14 “Moms in Touch”/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM LCT Planning Team/Parlor 10:30 AM “Daybreak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Friday, May 15 Men’s BSF/Parlor 4:45 AM WEE/K Graduation 8:00 AM-2:00 PM and Luncheon/FH,118 Saturday, May 16 Korean School/3rd Floor 8:00 AM-12:Noon Graduates & Family Dinner 6:00 PM 118 & Patio


Serving the City 2009 Thank you for serving our city with over 600

volunteers from First Baptist Church. Not all the churches have reported in at this time but we had somewhere around 1800 volunteers from 38 congregations working over 100 projects in Huntsville and Madison. The leadership from First Baptist has always been outstanding but this year we had several new people in leadership roles that did a great job. Rodger Keene and Andy Crocker provided wonderful leadership for our church and brought many new ideas and organization to the day. The First Baptist hub placed over 900 volunteers in more than 60 projects; the Madison First Church of the Nazarene placed over 150 volunteers in over 30 projects, and individual churches who planned and carried out their own projects placed over 750 volunteers in a large number of projects. The bottom line is that we were able to impact our community for Christ by serving and demonstrating love to people in all areas of our city. Thank you for being a part of Serving the City 2009. We are now making plans for April 17, 2010. If you have suggestions for projects or helpful information about making the day better and better, please pass to Rodger Keene, Andy Crocker, and Mike Pearce.

JUNE 3rd -- A REALLY BIG DAY IN FBC HISTORY

We've talked about it and planned it for years, and now the church history committee announces a major program for the actual 200-year birthday of our church. The date occurs on Wednesday, June 3rd, and the History Committee has been assigned responsibility for that regular Wednesday night program. The new First Baptist history book, in preparation for four years by the History Committee, will be introduced on that occasion. The author, Dr. Bruce Gourley, will speak, after which the book will be offered to members for $20, appreciably less than the actual cost. Each book will have a DVD containing voluminous details of the church's 200-year past. Dr. Gourley will be available to sign copies of the book for those who so desire. Our church was formed on June 3, 1809, and is the oldest missionary Baptist church in Alabama. MEN’S MOVIE NIGHT May 14, 6:00 PM at the FBC CLC

• Bring movies • We’ll eat steak and other good food. • Respond to Dow Canup ([email protected])

by Tuesday, May 12, if you plan to attend. Are you interested in assisting with FBC Men’s Ministry?

• Retreat • Service • Fellowship • Study Groups

Please email Dale ([email protected]) concerning your interest to get involved.


June 8th – 10th ? 9am – 2pm Completed K through Completed 3rd Grade

Registration: May 4th – 29th at the CLC Cost: $40 ($35 for additional siblings)

Coming soon to the CLC… We are currently in the process of converting one of our Racquetball rooms into a smaller weight and exercise room. Soon we will offer

cardio and weight equipment on both the first and second floors of the CLC. More info to come…

SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, May 8th at the CLC. We will only offer the morning session on this date, from 9:00am—2:00pm. Contact Kay if

interested, 828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI Menu

Wednesday, May 13

Adults Steak Burger - Baked Beans,

Cole Slaw Roll, Dessert

Salad

Fried Chicken Salad (Reservations for salad must be

turned in by noon on Wednesday.)

Kids’ Meal Pizza, Fruit, Cookie, Milk

Please Note:

This is the last day for the Kids’ Meal until Fall.

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 31 - May 3, 2009


This Week $161,382.70 YTD $2,641,171.98


ATTENDANCE

May 3, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 56 Children 92 Students 106 Adults 530 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 15 New Members 1 Visitors 35 TOTAL 835 WORSHIP ATTENDANCE First Fellowship 326 Sanctuary Worship 560 TOTAL 886

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Pat Martin, Leisa, Mike, Jenna, and Bryan, Wes Holly Family, Edwin and Jessie Bledsoe, and Laurie Larry Family; Brenda Miles and Family; Ed and Libby Yancey; Lucille Dyar; Jean Drake. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the church office.

VBS

SUPPLIES NEEDED:




9:00-12:00




The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 18, May 7, 2009


Experienced Adult

Sunday School L.I.F.E. Groups (Learning * Involving * Fellowship * Evangelism)

Arthur Flake became the first leader of the Sunday School Department of the Baptist Sunday School Board in 1920. A committed layman and traveling salesman, he moved to Nashville and for the next 17 years Sunday School became a major work of his life. He is best known for what he promoted

as a five -step formula for building and growing a Sunday School: Know the possibilities Enlarge the organization Provide the Space Enlist and Train the workers Go after the people Today’s Sunday School and small groups can still learn from the past by applying these same principles known as Flakes Formula to their department and or class if the following characteristics are shared. Outreach is a primary focus of the ministry. New people can join a class or group at anytime The style of the ministry is relational The ministry meets on a long-term and ongoing basis The primary textbook is the Bible It’s time we get Back to the Basics. Today in our Experienced Adult Sunday School departments and classes we must never lose sight of the objective of the original small-group experience: to invite people to study the Bible with a group of peers under the guidance of a committed leader so that the Holy Spirit might do His work through the living Word of God.

Reach * Teach * Witness * Minister

* 5 Step Formula for Sunday School Growth by David Francis

* * * * * * *

At the lake house of Dr. Jimmy Wall

Don’t forget your Lawn Chair, Fishing Pole, and Appetite!

Monday, June 1st 10:00 - 3:30

Lunch will be served at noon Cost: $6.00 plus a covered dish Sign up through your S.S. Departments or the Adult Ministries Office 428-9403

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Jonathan Frady 115 Irongate Rd Madison AL 35757-8724 Doris Sneed 1222 Pratt Ave NE Huntsville AL 35801-3057 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Kim & Tom Cooper in the loss of her father, Bruce Smith Family and friends of our member, Claude Dyar, especially to his wife, Lucille Dyar, and his aunt, Ester Dyar Roy & Pat Heifner; Lisa Andrews; and Brittany, Bryan, and Brandon Andrews in the loss of their cousin, Jason Heifner Don & Rebecca Newman in the loss of his sister, Virginia Betts Howard Sandlin in the loss of his brother, James Robert Sandlin

MUSIC MINISTRY DATES

The Hallelujah Choir will sing on Sunday morning, May 10.

The Youth Choir will sing on

Sunday morning, May 17.

Music and Missions Recognition Service May 17, at 5 pm - Sanctuary

Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion

June 12-14, 2009 Please help spread the word to all former

members of FBC youth music groups. Registration is available online at

www.fbchsv.org

BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION WEEKEND OF EVENTS

Friday Evening, June 12

Youth/Tour Choir Reunion (See info above)

Saturday Morning, June 13

Rehearsal of Reunion Choir in preparation for Sunday morning worship.

Saturday Evening, June 13

Bicentennial Homecoming Dinner Von Braun Center


Sunday, June 14 Homecoming Sunday Worship Service

followed by Dinner on the Grounds (Reservations required)

Invitations for the June 13 and 14 dinners

will be mailed the week of May 18.

October 30, 2008


May 17 will be Graduate Recognition Sunday in our church. During both morning worship services we will recognize the High School graduates from our church family. You can see the pictures of these graduates in this issue of The Messenger. The weekend

promises to be a special one for those who will soon graduate and for the families who will watch them move on to college or work. While Sunday morning recognizes academic achievement on the part of High School seniors, Sunday night will be a time to celebrate the spiritual growth of our children. Throughout this school year, music and missions ministries take place each Wednesday night for preschoolers and children. These folks learn wonderful lessons about the Bible, worship, music, and missions. They need an opportunity to share with you what they have learned. You need the chance to be taught by our children. Sunday night you will have this opportunity during a special service in the Sanctuary at 5:00 p.m. As our church has this Sunday of recognition, I will gather with family for a significant celebration. Our daughter, Emily, will be graduating this weekend with a Master of Divinity degree from The School of Divinity at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC. We will be there to rejoice with her. It feels like just last week that she was singing in children’s choirs at M & M Recognition services. It seems like just yesterday that she dressed in cap and gown at her High School Graduate Recognition service and we sent her off to college. Now the academic journey comes to an end (at least for now!) and she moves on to follow her ministry calling. By the way, that is cause for even more rejoicing. Last Sunday, the Highland Baptist Church in Louisville, KY called her to be their first Minister to Young Adults. We are filled with joy as she begins this new adventure in ministry in the city where she was born. As I am away recognizing the graduate in my family, I am very grateful that Jamie Mackey, our Minister to Students, will be preaching in both morning worship services. It is appropriate for him to offer a message on this day when we feature our students and their families. I know that you will receive a blessing from Jamie and from our young people this Sunday morning and night.

Sunday, May 17, 2009 Graduate Recognition Day

(Graduates will be recognized in both services.)



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music by Youth Choir

Sermon by Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students

Music and Missions Service 5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary

Our children who have been growing through Music and Missions ministries will share what they have been learning

and will lead us in a very special service of celebration.

“Share Generously” Update You have been found faithful in your giving and for that we are grateful! Your generous offering on May 3 rd totaling approximately $164,000 will more than make up our deficit giving through April of this year. It will not, however, get us through those lean months of giving during the summer unless giving remains at the top of our faithfulness to Christ and His work here at FBC. The summer months bring particularly heavy expenses in ministry needs, camps, VBS, mission trips and the like. Let’s remain faithful in our stewardship, allowing the spirit of compassion and community to drive us. Let’s not let the “theology of scarcity” – the need to hoard everything for investments in our own security – rule our lives. Let’s break the bounds of scarcity and embrace the freedom of generosity.

Live your life well with generosity and hope!

December 18, 2008 May 14, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, May 17 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM “Graduate Recognition” Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/ 10:30 AM “Graduate Recognition” Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM HHS Baccalaureate/Sanct 2:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118A 3:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM BSA Trp 70/342 4:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/242E 5:00 PM Music & Missions Svc/Sanct 5:00 PM Monday, May 18 Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3 rd Floor 5:00 PM Heritage Ringers’ Concert/Sanct 7:30 PM Tuesday, May 19 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Wednesday, May 20 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev. Comm/117 5:00 PM Congregational Life Comm/114 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/118A 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/140 & 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Personnel/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, May 21 “Daybreak” Reh/FH 5:00 PM Friday, May 22 Saturday, May 23

Baptist History & Heritage Society Annual Meeting

First Baptist Church, Huntsville, June 4-6, 2009

Although registration will be necessary, most meetings will be free to members

of FBC Huntsville as the host congregation.

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern On the Brahms Requiem…. Thank you to all who helped make the presentation of the Brahms Requiem so beautifully effective! It was indeed a highlight in our church’s life, thanks to the many in the choir and orchestra who labored diligently since January on this very demanding work, to the many who offered technical as well as moral support and encouragement, and to the many who took the time and energy to invite others to attend. The huge crowd that filled our sanctuary in spite of tornado warnings, monsoon-like rains, and swine flu fears found a remarkable experience of worship and artistry. Thank you! The choir and orchestra were stretched to new heights of musicianship through their preparations for this masterwork. I am so proud of each one who was involved, for I know what they gave of themselves. We were also delighted to welcome some brothers and sisters from other church choirs in the faith community who were interested in this extraordinary production. We could not have done it without them. FBC folks were most gracious and hospitable, I might add. The impact of the Brahms Requiem was powerful. Those in attendance have continued to express their deep gratitude in glowing accounts through personal contacts and numerous emails, stating that they were overwhelmed/touched/inspired/impressed/etc. Some of the most appreciated comments refer to the comfort they felt from the work and to the fact that the music and the scripture texts led them to deep and moving worship. We should never underestimate the power of great art utilized in the expression of God’s Word. Once in a great while (decades?) there comes an opportunity to do something truly significant. The Brahms Requiem represented one of those opportunities during this Bicentennial Celebration. Singers and instrumentalists seized this opportunity (as I prayed they would!) and their efforts brought glory to God as a result. For me personally, this project called forth my very best. I am a better minister/musician because of it. And, heartfelt gratitude is expressed to our Music Ministry staff and especially Elizabeth Hostetter. Their efforts were quite extraordinary. Thank you, First Baptist Church, for touching so many lives through the Brahms Requiem! Billy Orton

S u n d a y e v e n i n g , M a y 1 7 , 5 p m Our children’s choirs and missions groups will bring a delightful and inspiring service to life on that Sunday evening! Amanda Allen and the great team of leaders and workers who lead our children each Wednesday night will have some very special things in store for us all. T h e H e r i t a g e R i n g e r s , an auditioned community handbell choir led by Dan Lawhon, will give their Spring Concert in our Sanctuary on Monday night, May 18, at 7:30 pm. The public is cordially invited to attend. Y o u t h C h o i r / T o u r C h o i r R E U N I O N W E E K E N D ! - J u n e 1 2 - 1 4 Friday night fellowship Saturday morning rehearsal Sunday morning sing for Homecoming Worship Service See friends new and old……..former directors…….be a featured part of the Bicentennial Celebration…… More info and registration can be found at www.fbchsv.org or by contacting the Music Ministry Office.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, May 20 Adults

Lemon Chicken Rice - Green Beans

Roll - Dessert Salad



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #32 - May 10, 2009


This Week $55,664.29 YTD $2,696,836.27


ATTENDANCE


Sunday School Preschool 89 Children 129 Students 118 Adults 607 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 23 New Members - - Visitors 40 TOTAL 1006


Music Ministry Highlights

in Weeks to Come

Bicentennial Homecoming Weekend June 13 and 14 Includes a Reunion Choir for former Youth Choir and Tour Choir members Sign up online at www.fbchsv.org Music Camp for Children - July 6-12 Registration opens soon! Hymn Festival: WHAT WERE WE SINGING? October 18 at 5 pm Focus on the hymns utilized in each of the five church buildings where we have met during these 200 years: The Log Church (1809-1825) The Brick Church (1825-1860) The Bell Tower Church (1861-1895) The Gothic Church (1895-1963) Governors Drive (1963-present)


VBS 2009

SUPPLIES NEEDED:


DONATE Old solid color sheets Large boxes, Xerox & appliance kind Paper grocery sacks Empty paper towel rolls


9:00-12:00



Ragan Deal will be our Summer Intern starting at the end of May through the beginning of August. Ragan comes from Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology. He is pursuing a Master of Divinity degree with the desire to go into Youth Ministry upon graduation. Huntsville will not be a new place for Ragan. He is the son of Susan Parr Deal and the grandson of Bill and Ora Parr. Ragan’s grandmother worked with our ESL Ministry for many years before moving to Trussville, AL. He will be working with our Student Ministry and the children’s camps this summer. We encourage you to begin praying for Ragan’s time with us. We also encourage you to get to know him once he is in town by having him for dinner at some point in June and July.

Ragan with his mother Susan.

Lunch—11:59 AM at a Huntsville eating establishments

Transportation leaves from FBC at 11:45 AM

Mission Project—1:30—5:00 PM At local Huntsville ministry such as MANNA

House, CASA, Salvation Army and the Downtown Rescue Mission

Games & Devotion—6:00 PM We get outside on the FBC grass for some

games that are fun and can be wet and messy. We end the day with a devotion.

For a full schedule of the week by week destinations, go to www.eggbeateryouth.org.

The summer Wednesday schedule will be completed once Ragan “the Intern” is here.




LOVING GOD, SERVING OTHERS, GROWING DISCIPLES

Are you interested in assisting with FBC Men’s Ministry? • Retreat • Service • Fellowship • Study Groups

Please email Dale Jobes ([email protected]) indicating your interest to get involved. Are you interested in facilitating a Women’s Bible Study?

• Wednesday nights at FBC? • Sunday nights at FBC? • Weekday mornings at FBC? • In your home, morning or evening?

Please contact Donna Lehman ([email protected]; 536-9003).

Are you interested in serving in Sunday Morning Bible Study for adults? • Teacher • Outreach, Inreach

Please contact Pam McDaniel ([email protected]; 428-9403). Are you interested in helping to plan upcoming Couple Time/Date Nights?

• Marriage Enrichment • Fellowship and Fun

Please contact Nathan Alderson ([email protected]). FBC . . . Loving, Serving, Growing Together!

" F A M I L Y " Q u i l t s f o r t h e C e l e b r a t i o n D i n n e r J u n e 1 3 a t t h e V B C ! ! !

Please consider sharing your “family” quilt to be used for decoration during our 200th Celebration dinner. Your quilt will be displayed in the North Hall of the VBC from Saturday, June 13, at 3:00 p.m. until directly after the dinner. We need approximately 20-25 quilts. Security will be available while they are displayed. For further information, please contact Glenn Brown at 539-9196 or [email protected].

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Herbert Batt, especially to his wife, Carolyn Batt Rita & James Davenport in the loss of her mother, and Andrew and Abigail Davenport in the loss of their grandmother, Mrs. Phillips OUR NEWEST Kathleen May “Katie” Thompson, daughter of Chris and Amy Thompson, 110 Jeff Ridge Trail, Harvest, Alabama 35749, born May 4, 2009.

June 7

Sunday

Step

Next

An invitation to take the “next step”

in church membership

Sunday Step

Next

Do you know someone who has been a guest of FBC or active in our ministries but has not yet made the commit-ment to officially join with us? Please encourage them to consider June 7 as a special invitation to join FBC. Call Susan Williams 428-9408 in the church office for more information.

June 7

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor In keeping with the Bicentennial Theme, “The Footprints Continue,” we are planning a special day on June 7 that is called Next Step Sunday. The purpose is very simple. For those people who regularly participate in the family of First Baptist Church but who are not

church members it will be an opportunity to take “the next step” and join the church. This is a chance to be a part of the “continuing footprints” in the life of First Baptist Church. I wonder if you might have an interest in this special day that we are planning. Maybe you know someone who does.

Some people think about joining First Baptist Church but have been putting off the decision or have just never gotten around to it. Others have some questions about church membership that they would like to have answered. I realize that there can be many reasons why people have not made the decision to be a member. Some may prefer to keep things just like that for now. If so, that is great and there will be no pressure placed on anyone to make a decision of any kind. However, for those who have been looking for an opportunity that might help them in taking the “next step” we have designed this Sunday with them in mind.

On June 7 there will be a designated area in the Fellowship Hall and the Sanctuary where people who are joining can sit alongside other participants. Others may prefer to simply sit where they like in the congregation. At the conclusion of the service I will recognize each new member by calling out their name. There will be no need to walk the aisle or stand in the receiving line. It is as simple as that. At the church Welcome Centers and in the Fellowship Hall you will find brochures that have information about different ways that people join our church. You will also see Response Cards that will allow you to indicate your preferences related to Next Step Sunday. If you would like to talk to me about this opportunity or if you have any questions about all of this, please indicate that on the card and drop it in the offering plate. I will get in touch with you. You may also indicate on the card your readiness to join the church. If you are ready to join, one of our ministers will call to get some additional membership information from you. Becoming a member of the Church is a significant and personal decision. If this is the right decision for you at this time, I want to invite you to take the Next Step.

Sunday, May 24

Sermon: “Precious Memories” 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Theme: The Memorial Day holiday weekend gives us a good opportunity to “remember” some things that

should matter most in our lives.

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by A2O


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir - “How Great Thou Art”

Arr. Courtney

NO EVENING SERVICE OR ACTIVITIES

December 18, 2008 May 21, 2009

Baptist History & Heritage Society

Annual Meeting First Baptist Church, Huntsville

June 4-6, 2009 Theme: Baptist Contributions, 1609-2009

Saturday, June 6 - 9:00 a.m. Music by our Sanctuary Choir

Major addresses by David Hull, Pastor,

and Bruce Gourley, author of our new church history book.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, May 24 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM NO EVENING SERVICE OR ACTIVITIES Monday, May 25 Memorial Day - Offices & CLC Closed Tuesday, May 26 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM Advisory Council Mtg/Parlor 7:00 PM Wednesday, May 27 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Colorado Missions Mtg/140 4:45 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, May 28 “Daybreak” Reh/FH 9:00 PM Friday, May 29 Fellowship Club Day Trip 9:00 AM Ralph Langley Golf 12:00 PM Tournament/Goose Pond Colony Saturday, May 30

FLAG DAY IS JUNE 14

Boy Scout Troop 70 requests that you bring unserviceable American flags to the Church Office. The troop will retire them properly.

FBC HISTORY BOOK Our new history book will be

introduced and will be on sale Wednesday evening, June 3 ,

in Fellowship Hall.

The author, Dr. Bruce Gourley, will speak and will be available to

autograph copies. Cost: $20


Good News On Channel 48 news this past week there was a wonderful piece about the Angel Food Ministry. They interviewed Fran Fluhler, the director of Manna House, and daughter of our Jack and Evelyn Lucas, and did a great job of explaining the mission of Angel Food. Also, an interview with Gayla Kidd aired last week about the new Huntsville Assistance Program North site. Several months ago Gayla began working with churches in the Toney area on beginning a new Huntsville Assistance Program site in that area. They have secured the use of a great building and volunteers from churches in that area have been putting in new sheetrock and lots of fresh paint for the center. It will be known as “HAP North” and is beginning with at least 10 new churches affiliating with HAP. Congratulations to Gayla and the team of volunteers who helped bring this gift of care and service to that area.

2009 – 2010 Outreach Challenge Don’t forget the recent challenge from our pastor. From Easter 2009 to Easter 2010 you are asked to commit to building a relationship with one person or family. Plan events that help build that relationship, look for ways to truly listen to their needs, and be a good friend to them. Once God leads you to a person be aware of His leadership in your life and in your friend’s life. Just think, if half of the adults in our church committed to this

challenge, we would see God’s blessings in more than 300 or more new people’s lives being touched by the love of God. Now that’s Good News.

J u n e 1 3 a t t h e V B C ! ! !

Please consider sharing your “family” quilt to be used for decoration during our 200th Celebration dinner. Your quilt will be displayed in the North Hall of the VBC from Saturday, June 13, at 3:00 p.m. until directly after the dinner. We need approximately 20-25 quilts. Security will be available while they are displayed. For further information, please contact Glenn Brown at 539-9196 or [email protected].

SUNDAY STEP

NEXT JUNE 7

Do you know someone who has been a guest of FBC or active in our ministries but has not yet made the commitment to officially join with us? Please encourage them to consider June 7 as a special invitation to join FBC. Call Susan Williams 428-9408 in the church office for more information. Also, please see Dr. Hull’s article in this newsletter.

An invitation to take the “next step”

in church membership.


June 8th — 10th — 9am – 2pm

Completed K through Completed 3rd Grade Registration: Through May 29th at the CLC

Cost: $40 ($35 for additional siblings) Spaces are still available, so sign up before they’re gone! This is a great

opportunity for your child to learn the value of exercise and an active lifestyle, and to learn how our God leads us in “Running the Race” of life!

SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, May 29th the CLC. For more information or to sign up, contact

Kay at 828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI

Menu Wednesday, May 27

Adults

Taco Salad w/meat, lettuce, cheese,

beans, and tomatoes Dessert

Salad



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #33 - May 17, 2009


This Week $55,019.93 YTD $2,751,856.20


ATTENDANCE - May 17, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services First Fellowship 250 Sanctuary Worship 749 Experienced Adult Trip 75 TOTAL 1074

COLORADO MISSION 2009

MEETING (Bayfield, Colorado (Durango Area)

Wednesday, May 27, 4:45 p.m.

Room 140 (Meet & Eat)

Dates: July 16 – 28

Topics: NC application, Transportation, accommodations,

sightseeing, etc.


VBS

SUPPLIES NEEDED:




9:00-12:00



GETTING TO KNOW YOU Thursday, May 28, 6:00 p.m.

CLC Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107, for information.

The Footprints Continue...

Saturday, June 13

Other upcoming events: Wednesday, June 3

Presentation of Church History Book

Thursday, June 4-6 Baptist History and Heritage Society Meeting at FBC

Friday, June 12 Youth Choir/Tour Choir Reunion Begins

Saturday, June 13 Bicentennial Banquet (see info above– reservations required)

Sunday, June 14– Homecoming Sunday 8:45- Meet and Greet with Former Staff (East Entrance)

9:15– Sunday School 10:30– Worship

Following Worship– Dinner on the Grounds (Reservation required))

Von Braun Center North Hall Six o’clock in the evening

$20.00 per person

Join in the inspiring celebration program featuring former pastors - Allen Walworth and Dennis Wiles.

Share in the lighting of the 200 Bicentennial Candles. Marvel at the 10-foot high Bicentennial Cake - a work of art.

FBC musicians will lead in the celebration as our pastor David Hull serves as the

Master of Ceremonies.

Business Attire

Childcare available at FBC beginning at 5:30 pm. Reservations required. Call 256-428-9411

If you have not received an invitation by May 25 please call Anne Stone at 256-539-3512.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of w

itnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and

the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus

the pioneer and perfecter of our faith . . ."Hebrew

s 12:1-2

TESTIMONIALS ABOUT PAST FBC MEMBERS

Beulah Neece Ware (1881-1977) (Mrs. Frank Ware) Written by Sylvia Bailey - (Judson College, 1958)

Miss Beulah, as she was called by young and old alike, loved everybody and everybody loved her. A story I heard about her was related to her being the pianist for a Children’s Department in Sunday school at First Baptist Church. While a young boy was on a vacation with his family, he wanted to send Miss Beulah a card. When asked why, he re-sponded, “She’ll wonder where I am.” Obviously, she made him feel special.

Miss Beulah’s parents were active members of FBC so she was there with them, as the saying goes, every time the doors were open. She was an accomplished musician during her early years and was graduated from Judson College in Marion, Alabama in 1901 with a degree in music. Shortly thereafter, she became the organist for FBC where she continued to serve for over 60 years, a record. In 1963, she became Organist Emeritus. When the new Sanctuary and the new Casavant Pipe Organ were being planned, it was decided that the organ would be named for her. In addition to her work at FBC, she was also the organist for Temple B’nai Shalom for 50 years.

Miss Beulah was active in the community playing the piano and organ for different groups including a funeral home. She organized the Huntsville Music Study Club in 1920 and was its first president. She served as pianist for the Hunts-ville Civitan Club for 40 years and the Rotary Club for 30 years. Her ability to play by ear any song requested made her a popular addition to each meeting.

I, along with other Judson Alumnae of FBC, wished to honor her so we planned a special occasion at the Russel Erskine Hotel in May 1972. The luncheon was attended by local dignitaries and others who spoke of her gifts of time and talents to their respective organizations, church, and synagogue. The Madison County Chamber of Commerce later presented her its Distinguished Service Award, the first woman to be honored.

The bulk of her estate was willed to FBC. In 2002, the trustees recommended and the church approved the use of the funds. Fittingly, part of the estate was used to add the “trumpets” to the pipes. They concluded the report, “ We hope each time the trumpets are blown or the piano is played, we will be reminded of her faithful service.”

I am sure God himself smiled when he called her home.

Constance Loftin and Etoile Allred (Written by Harvilee Phillips Harbarger)

Back in the good old days when First Baptist Church was located on West Clinton Street the Girls Auxiliary was the organization to be in. “We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations” was the hymn of choice and our theme.

The time was the mid 1940’s and Constance Loftin and Etoile Allred were our GA leaders, helping us learn about the good works and lives of missionaries and lots of Bible study. These ladies, then in their prime, as young, devoted Christian wives and mothers were ideal role models for us to look up to and enjoy being with.

One of my fondest memories of these meetings was the spaghetti and meatball suppers the ladies prepared for us. The very small kitchen was in the basement of the old Church and was furnished with vintage equipment. This was during World War II and meat was rationed along with other essentials. So the ladies even had to share their ration stamps to purchase the meat.

There was no church cook or hostess during those days so Mrs. Loftin and Mrs. Alldred were our cooks as well as our inspiration.

The meatballs that night were dee-licious!! I’ve never forgotten how good they were. I even got the recipe and have it on the same card in my file 65 years later.

Constance Loftin and Etoile Allred gave many hours in their dedication to Huntsville First Baptist Church and we re-member them for their work in helping mold the lives of so many young girls in the 1940’s.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 20. May 21, 2008


The Rest of Your Life Do you find yourself thinking about what the rest of your life is going to be

like? After 50 years of age, many people become more thoughtful about how they want to spend the years they have left. Some lower their heads to race to the finish line of retirement so they can finally enjoy life in the sun, traveling, or just “kicking back.” Others want to retool their lives to spend their years in meaningful and significant ways to help make the world a better place. Whatever your thoughts, reflecting on the rest of our days is important.

For example, many older adults have much to offer younger generations. Our church and society cannot afford to have this wealth of experience and wisdom escape behind gated communities or spend all their days on the links. More than ever, older adults are needed to speak into the confusion and chaos of our world. It is unacceptable for serious followers of Jesus Christ to turn their backs and dismiss our involvement with “it’s their problem now.”

As you take stock of your life, ask yourself the following questions. Are you looking forward to retirement? Are you thinking of returning to school?... Just a side note…. this month two of our experienced adults have received advanced degrees. Bob Hall, a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering from UAH, and Homer Wilson a Master of Art and Religion(MAR) from Liberty University. Congratulation guys!!! One way of taking stock is to ask yourself some important questions.

George Kinder, a CPA and founder of the Kinder Institute, asks three

potent questions that help us evaluate our life: Question 1: “Assume that you’ve got all the money you need and you will

not have to worry about money again. The question is, What would you do with it? How would you live?”

Question 2: “You go to the Doctor, who discovers you have a rare illness. He says that you’re going to feel perfectly fine for the next five years, but then the illness will prove fatal. It will come suddenly, causing no suffering. The question is, Now that you know that your life will be over by then, how will you live it? What will you do?”

Question 3: “You go to the Doctor. You feel perfectly healthy. Again the doctor explains that you have a serious illness. But this time the doctor says, ‘You have only 24 hours to live.’ What did you miss? Who did you not get to be? What did you not get to do?”

For followers of Christ I would add additional questions to ask: If I stop and listen, what do I think God is saying to me? Am I using my God-given talents, gifts, experiences and abilities to further His Kingdom? What passion have I buried that needs to be re-examined? What flame has God put in my heart that needs to be fanned into a burning fire? I challenge you to ask yourself these questions and then begin the process of getting and giving more in the rest of your life.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Will McDavid 223 Hughes Pond Cir Madison AL 35758-7373 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Becky & Mike Soutullo in the loss of her cousin, Mildred Canterbury OUR NEWEST Laney Nicole Dellinger, daughter of Jeff and Pepper (Hilleke) Dellinger, 4260 Loblolly Court, Auburn, AL, born April 30, 2009. Proud grandparents are Harry and Becky Dellinger and Frank and Shelia Hilleke (former members). Anna Irina Pickle, daughter of Bob and Sasha Pickle, Elkmont, Alabama, born May 11, 2009. Proud grandmother is Becky Pickle and great-aunt Betty Thurstone. Eli Foster Richardson, son of John and Jamie Richardson, 1606 Montdale Road, SE, Huntsville, AL 35801, born May 14, 2009. Proud grandparents are E.C. and Dottie Richardson.

A NOTE FROM

JAMIE & HOPE MACKEY

Dear Church Family — We want to give you an update on Story. This week, she will begin wearing a helmet on her head for six months. The helmet is to help round out a flat spot on the back of her head (medically referred to as plagiocephaly). A craniofacial specialist at Vanderbilt recommends we do this for several reasons. We are notifying you of the helmet on the front end because we covet your prayers and so that we do not have to tell the condition repeatedly (especially in front of Cade). Story is developing well. Please greet her as you normally would a beautiful little girl. With Gratitude – Jamie and Hope

THANKS

Thank you notes have been received from Kay Webb (Moms in Touch Prayer Group), and Ellen and Ernie Hamilton. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


Sunday nights during the summer months provide for us a wonderful opportunity to live out our Bicentennial theme, “The Footprints Continue.” On seven different Sunday nights we will have worship in our Chapel. Each of these nights our History Committee will lead us in a moment of teaching and reflection on the life and contribution of someone from the history of our church. On Wednesday nights we have been focusing on great

figures from church history. Now we need to learn about people from the history of our church. I am grateful for the work of the History Committee on this worship feature. But we are saying “The Footprints Continue.” The focus of our anniversary celebration is not just to look back to the past. It is to see how the footprints of faith continue on into tomorrow. For that reason, I have invited six people who are currently studying in preparation for ministry or have recently graduated from a time of theological training. These people have family connections to our church and represent the way that the footprints of ministry will continue into the future. I want you to hear from them over the summer months in conjunction with the reflections on people from the history of our church. The summer series begins on Pentecost Sunday – May 31. Perhaps those words from the Book of Joel that Peter quoted in his Pentecost sermon will be a good description for what we are doing this summer. Peter quoted the Lord who spoke through Joel when he said, “I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy . . .” (Acts 2:17) I invite you to join in worship this summer as the “sons and daughters” of our church will preach the Good News. Here is the schedule for the summer:

Worship in the Chapel - 5:00 p.m. on Sunday Nights May 31 David McDaniel, Preaching Student, Truett Seminary of Baylor University, Waco, TX June 7 Emily Hull, Preaching Recent Graduate, Wake Forest School of Divinity, Winston-Salem, NC June 21 David Hull, Preaching June 28 Chris Sims, Preaching Recent Graduate, Duke Divinity School, Durham, NC July 19 Rebecca Orton, Preaching Recent Graduate, McAfee School of Theology, Atlanta,GA Minister to Children, Parkway Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA July 26 Ragan Deal, Preaching Student, McAfee School of Theology, Atlanta, GA Summer Ministry Intern August 2 Jane Hull, Preaching Student, McAfee School of Theology, Atlanta, GA


Sermon: “Believing and Belonging”

Colossians 2:6-7

First Fellowship 8:15 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Music from Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:15 a.m. Music by Sanctuary Choir

Terry Jarnagin, solo

Evening Service - 5:00 p.m. Worship in the Chapel

David McDaniel, Preaching

December 18, 2008 May 28, 2009

SUNDAY STEP NEXT

JUNE 7

Do you know someone who has been a guest of FBC or active in our ministries but has not yet made the commitment to officially join with us? Please encour-age them to consider June 7 as a spe-cial invitation to join FBC. Call Susan Williams 428-9408 in the church office for more information.

An invitation to take the “next step” in church membership.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, May 31 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM Worship Service/Chapel 5:00 PM

Monday, June 1 Sr. Adult Fish Fry/Off-site 10:00 AM-3:00 PM

Tuesday, June 2 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Wednesday, June 3 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/140 & 141 6:00 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 4 Baptist History & Heritage 9:00 AM-8:30 PM Society Friday, June 5 Baptist History & Heritage 8:30 AM-9:00 PM Society Saturday, June 6 Baptist History & Heritage 9:00 AM-12:15 PM Society

Perry County Mission Trip: May 31—June 5

Sports Camp: June 8 and 9

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern BICENTENNIAL HOMECOMING WEEKEND JUNE 13-14

Music Highlights— * Friday night social time for former Youth Choir/Tour Choir members

* Saturday morning rehearsal of the “Reunion Choir” * Saturday night banquet will feature the FBC Orchestra and soloist Emily Hull

* Sunday morning worship service will begin EARLY with a Pre-Service Mini- Concert by the “Reunion Choir!” * Music from the Sanctuary Choir, Reunion Choir and FBC Orchestra, including a reprise of the commissioned anthem (“Run the Race with Perseverance” by Cox) * Closing anthem by combined choirs, including the CURRENT Youth Choir (“God of Grace and God of Glory” by Langston) MUSIC CAMP 2009 July 6-10 Final presentations on Sunday evening, July 12

Registrations are now open! You can register online or simply call the Music Ministry Office. Camp leaders— KinderCamp directed by Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen Younger Camp directed by Amanda Allen Older Camp directed by Lea Hoppe Faculty and staff are still being enlisted. Contact the MM Office if you are interested. INVITE CHILDREN TO THIS TERRIFIC WEEK OF MUSICAL AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH!

First Family, The summer is a wonderful time to expand horizons, both personally and corporately. We are currently looking to expand our First Fellowship ministry team. We are looking for instrumentalists (primarily acoustic, electric, and bass guitar players, and trap set

drummers) to assist in leading worship in our First Fellowship service. Experienced musical skill is preferred, but a receptive and worshipful heart is an absolute must. This can be a temporary or long-term commitment, based on your availability. We will hold informal auditions in order to assess where you best fit in our First Fellowship worship team.

Requirements: -help one of our contemporary praise bands lead worship on Sunday mornings in

First Fellowship, at least two times each month -consistently practice once a week with one of our praise bands, and practice

on your own to achieve musical excellence -lead worship not just on stage on Sundays, but through the way

you live your life everyday If you are interested in serving our Lord and our church in this capacity, please contact me for more information: [email protected] or 428-9446. -Lee Deutschendorf


FYI Menu

Wednesday, June 3

Adults Pork Shoulder Roast

Corn Coins Turnip Greens

Dessert



STEWARDSHIP

AND ATTENDANCE REPORTS NOT AVAILABLE DUE TO EARLY PRINT DEADLINE

June 8th — 10th — 9am – 2pm Completed K

through Completed 3rd Grade Registration: Through May 29th

at the CLC Cost: $40

($35 for additional siblings) Spaces are still available, so sign up before they’re gone! This is a great

opportunity for your child to learn the value of exercise and an active

lifestyle, and to learn how our God leads us in

“Running the Race” of life!

COLORADO MISSION 2009 MEETING

(Bayfield, Colorado (Durango Area)

Wednesday, May 27, 4:45 p.m. Room 140 (Meet & Eat)

Dates: July 16 – 28

Topics: NC application,

Transportation, accommodations, sightseeing, etc.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool MOPS – TOGETHER ON PLANET MOM (theme for MOPS International for the year 2009 – 2010) If you see any of these women around our church, please thank them for their commitment to MOPS International and especially to FBC MOPS. These are the Steering Team members who have planned, publicized, prayed about, encouraged and prepared our meetings for the past year. They have agreed to continue into the next year. Toni Cassidy – Coordinator Beth Crocker – Co-Coordinator & Discussion Group Team Leader Heather Armstrong – Finance Leader & Publicity Team Leader Laura Cook – Creative Activities Leader Joan Whetzel – MOPPETS Leader Debbie McDaniel – Mentor Mom Our dues for the year are $40.00 which includes your membership in the International Organization of MOPS and gives you a subscription to MomSense (magazine), e-mail newsletter and a book.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL is fast approaching! We have a few positions available for those of you who have not yet volunteered. Call soon if you have a certain age group that you prefer to teach or a certain activity that you prefer to help with so that we can put you in that place. Every year, you are patient with us as we decorate and transform our church into whatever theme we are using for VBS. This year, we will be building Rome for a week! Some of the items that have been listed that we need are for decorative purposes – we still need large plain, pottery type pots; laundry- type wicker or woven baskets; oriental rugs; and solid color sheets (not fitted). Pop-up type gazebos will help us to transform our hallways and

classrooms into the streets and homes of Roman citizens. We chose this theme because we thought it would be interesting during this celebration of our 200 years of FBC for our children to learn more about the New Testament church and the challenges that the early Christians had. If you cannot help us physically the week of VBS, we ask that you pray for our teachers and our children as we help them see what the early Christians endured in order to worship our God. VBS is June 22 – 25, from 9 – Noon each day. Call 428-9411 to volunteer today!

Photo by Bob Saint

June 7 5:00 PM

Disc Golf & Food at Monte Sano

Pre-Trip Meeting Wednesday, June 10, at 7:00 PM

In Room 241

On sale Wednesday, June 3

Cost $20

Presentation by Author Bruce Gourley

Other upcoming events: Wednesday, June 3

Presentation of Church History Book (see above)

Thursday, June 4-6 Baptist History and Heritage Society Meeting at FBC (see reverse side)


Saturday, June 13 Bicentennial Banquet (Reservations required)



Following Worship– Dinner on the Grounds (Reservations required))





s 12:1-2

Following a presentation by author Bruce Gourley, the book will be offered for purchase. Each book will contain a bonus feature - a computer DVD contain-ing details (archival documents, pictures, etc.) of the church's 200-year past. Dr. Gourley will be happy to sign copies of Leading the Way for those who so desire. On the morning of Sunday June 7th, members will have the opportunity to purchase the book before First Fellowship in the Fellowship Hall and before and after Sanctuary worship in the vestibule outside the FBC Library. After the 7th, books will be sold through the church office and by mail.

Baptist History and Heritage Society FBC Huntsville

Thursday, June 4– Saturday, June 6

You’re Invited to Big History Session Especially June 6th

Baptist historians from over the nation, mostly from colleges and universities, will gather at FBC June 4-6 for the annual meeting of the Baptist History and Heritage Society, celebrat-ing 400 years of the Baptist denomination as well as the 200 years of the host church.

The theme of the conference is “Baptist Contributions, 1609-2009.” Plenary speakers Thursday night (June 4) and Friday night (June 5) will be Dr. Carol Crawford Holcomb of University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, Texas, and Dr. J. Wayne Flynt, retired, Auburn University. Many breakout sessions in which numerous papers will be pre-

sented will be held Friday. FBC members are invited to attend any of these sessions without payment of regis-tration fees. Church members interested in attending the awards luncheon on Friday, June 5, will be asked to send in a registration form and to pay $20 to help cover the cost of the meal. For more information, see www.baptisthistory.org or contact Pam Durso at [email protected] or 678-547-6095. The Saturday morning, June 6, program will be of especial interest to FBC members. The entire program will be devoted to First Baptist-Huntsville, and will include music by our sanctuary choir and major addresses by Dr. David Hull, pastor, and Dr. Bruce Gourley, author of the new FBC history book which will have been unveiled that week, as well as shorter talks by FBC history committee members Jim Harrison, Eva Geiger and Joe Jones. (Dr. Gourley is interim head of The Center for Baptist Studies, Mercer University, Macon.) All speakers will deal with aspects of FBC’s 200-year past. (by Joe Jones)

Carol Crawford

Wayne Flynt




How’s your summer looking? School graduations. Dance recitals. Piano recitals. Little league ball. Grass to mow. Suitcases to pack. Trips to Grandma’s. Dog to board. Swimsuit to buy. Vacation Bible School. Music Camp. Sports Camp. Centri-Kid. Mission Trips. More camps. Celebrating 200 years of FBC. Days at the pool. Days on the golf course. Days at the lake. Family picnics. Family reunions. Trip to the beach. Trip to the theme park. Blueberries to pick. Flowers to water (maybe not!).

Watermelon to eat. Weeds to pull. Books to read. Sunburns to prevent. House to clean. Clothes to wash. Movies to watch. Weddings to attend. Bills to pay. Lawn mower to repair. Fireworks to enjoy. Walks to take. Sunsets to watch. Boats to ride. Sandcastles to build. Neighbors to meet. Tennis lessons to take. Busy days of summer may be a good time for us to hear again our simple reminder from God. What does He ask of us?

Do what is fair and just Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,to your neighbor,

Be compassionate and loyal Be compassionate and loyal

in your love,in your love,

Don't take yourself too Don't take yourself too seriously seriously ——

take God seriously.take God seriously.

Micah 6:8Micah 6:8

Loving God, Serving Others, Growing Disciples Loving God, Serving Others, Growing Disciples –– summer, winter, spring, and fallsummer, winter, spring, and fall

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Eugenia & Frank Graves in the loss of her brother-in-law, Chuck Holman Gail & Philip Hopson in the loss of her aunt, Lena Davis Family and friends of our member, Edna Lighton

RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATES

Shawn Wesley Davenport, Ph.D. in Psychology from The University of Tennessee on May 7, 2009. He is a former FBC Summer Intern, married to Mary Beth Chambers. He is the son-in-law of Gary and Patricia Chambers and grand-son-in-law of Betty Patterson. He is currently working as an assistant professor at High Point University, High Point, North Carolina Mary Elizabeth Orton, Master of Arts in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences from San Diego State University on May 22, 2009. Mary is the daughter of Billy and Jane Orton. Sarah Anne Proctor, Bachelor of Arts in English from UAHuntsville, May 2009. She is the daughter of Dale and Paula Proctor.

Mr. and Mrs. Joel Lonergan and

Mr. and Mrs. Steve Deutschendorf invite you to share in the joy

of the marriage of their children Britney Lonergan

and Lee Deutschendorf

on Friday, the twenty-sixth of June Two thousand and nine

at six-thirty in the evening Burritt on the Mountain

3101 Burritt Drive SE Huntsville, Alabama

Ceremony and reception outside at Burritt

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

What is a Baptist? Perhaps you have been confronted by this question as someone has asked you about your church. How would you answer the question? What do you feel are the distinctive characteristics that make one a Baptist?

We live in a day in which denominational boundaries are being blurred. Many people move from one denomination to another as they move from city to city or from church to church. Whereas in the past a person might remain in one denomination for an entire lifetime, today’s mobile society sees many people crossing denominational lines in search of a church that will meet their needs. The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life that I mentioned last Sunday learned in a recent study that 44% of Americans are not a part of the religious tradition in which they were raised. Our own church is composed of a number of folks who did not grow up as a Baptist. We also have many people who worship with us in person or by television who simply do not know what a Baptist is. While our top priority is to be Christian in service to our Lord Jesus Christ, we also must acknowledge that members of our church have chosen to be a Baptist kind of Christian. Do we know why we have made this choice? This Sunday I want to address these very questions. I do so for the sake of the long-time Baptists who may have never thought about what it means to be Baptist because we were simply born into this family of faith. I also offer this sermon for the people who are considering our church as a church home or who are simply worshipping with us. The more someone knows about our identity as a Baptist church the better able they will be to make a decision about church membership and their experience of worship in our midst will be enhanced.

In this great season of our Bicentennial events we also recognize that we are celebrating the 400 th anniversary of Baptists as a movement. This week we are hosting the annual meeting of the Baptist History and Heritage Society to commemorate both of these anniversaries. On a Sunday that will give an opportunity for people to take The Next Step in connecting to our church through membership and will begin a week of anniversary festivities, it may be a good time for us to remember what it means to be Baptist. I invite you to join us this Sunday as I preach “Why Baptist?”

The Footprints Continue . . .

Sunday, June 7 Sermon: “Why Baptist?”

Jude 3 In this day when many churches do not

have a denominational identity, why do we remain Baptist?

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by “The Meltons”


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir and FBC Men’s Ensemble


Emily Hull, Preaching

December 18, 2008 June 4, 2009

This Weekend - June 4-6 Baptist History and Heritage Society

Annual Meeting

The Saturday morning, June 6, 9:00 a.m. session will be of especial interest to FBC members. The entire program will be devoted to First Baptist-Huntsville, and will include music by our sanctuary choir and major addresses by Dr. David Hull, pastor, and Dr. Bruce Gourley, author of the new FBC history book, as well as shorter talks by FBC history committee members Jim Harrison, Eva Geiger and Joe Jones.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, June 7 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Bridal Shower/Parlor 2:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band Reh/309-310 3:00 PM Worship Service/Chapel 5:00 PM Stu. Summer Sun Nights 5:000—10:00 PM Off Campus Monday, June 8 Roundtable/242 12:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM

Tuesday, June 9 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM HAP Board Mtg/241 6:30 PM

Wednesday, June 10 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Stewardship/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/140 & 141 6:00 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM Mission Presentation/Parlor 7:00 PM M-Fuge Stu & Parents/241 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 11 The Vine Brd Mtg/242 11:30 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM WEE Staff Shower/Parlor 5:00 PM Youth Choir Reunion/CR 6:00 PM

Friday, June 12 Angel Food/ 8:30 AM-5:00 PM East Welcome Ctr Tour Choir Reunion/CLC 5:00 PM Youth Choir Reunion/CR 6:00 PM Saturday, June 13 Youth & Tour Choir 10:00 AM-2:00 PM Reunion/CR Bicentennial Banquet/VBC 6:00 PM

FLAG DAY IS JUNE 14 Boy Scout Troop 70 requests that you bring unserviceable American flags to the Church Office. The troop will retire them properly.

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Mission Prayer List Last Sunday you heard Hope Mackey offer prayer for several mission endeavors this summer. So you will have a written list of the ones we know about, I am listing all the opportunities in missions we have this summer. Please cut out this list and pray for each of these mission efforts this summer.

PICTURES FOR “GOD AND COUNTRY” CELEBRATION

Again this year we will have a special patriotic service and supper. This will be held on Wednesday night, July 1. As before, we will have a slide presentation to honor all military personnel, living and deceased, connected to our church family. If you have not previously submitted a picture to be included in this presentation and would like to do so, please bring the picture to Nancy Moore in the Church Office. It will be scanned and returned to you. Please bring the photo by the office before June 21.

Volunteers for Homecoming Sunday

A team is needed to take down tables and chairs after the "Dinner on the Grounds" Homecoming Sunday, June 14. If you will be available to be a part of this group, please contact Harry Dellinger, 882-9025 or [email protected].

Prayer List for the FBC Summer Mission Activities

Month of June – Establishment of the North Huntsville Assistance Program June 1-5 – Perry County June 15-19 – Student Ministry to Nashville Mission/Fuge June 20-27 - Madison World Changers June 22-26 - Vacation Bible School All the Sundays in July – collection for school backpacks July 15-26 - Student Mission to Hungary July 19-28 - Colorado Mission Trip August-September – Huntsville Assistance Program food drive Sunday School Departments and Classes new year and their commitment to serve missionally Please continue to pray for the Mission Strategy Study Work Group


New Fitness Room In addition to our upstairs Aerobics/Weight Room at the CLC, we have created a new Fitness Room downstairs, located in what used to be Racquetball Court #1. We currently have two treadmills, a LeMond RevMaster spin bicycle, and a Lifecycle recumbent exercise

bicycle available in this room, with weight equipment on the way soon as well. Be sure to come check it out!

FYI

Menu Wednesday, June 10

Adults

Greek Chicken w/Blackberry Sauce (on side)

Long Grain Wild Rice Mixed Vegetables

Roll - Dessert



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #35— May 31, 2009


Two Weeks $125,972.57 YTD $2,877,828.77

Debt Retirement: Two Weeks $1,550.00 YTD $54,774.72

Because there was no report last week, two weeks are reported here.

ATTENDANCE May 31, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 87 Children 125 Students 123 Adults 657 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 26 New Members - - Visitors 44 TOTAL 1062 WORSHIP ATTENDANCE May 24, 2009 First Fellowship 287 Sanctuary Worship 592 TOTAL 879 May 31, 2009 First Fellowship 431 Sanctuary Worship 759 TOTAL 1190

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children Parents’ Summer Survival Guide

In the summer, find a balance of unstructured play-time, routine, enrichment, and quality family time. Children need unstructured time to rest and be creative, but providing structure, experiences, and tools that put the mind and body to work help children have fun and grow, and help you manage a busy summer. Have a Routine * Stick to a wake up time and a bedtime routine as much as possible * Plan meals and have healthy snacks on hand to avoid impulsive, unhealthy eating.

Use the local farmers market for a day trip and healthy eating * Establish rules for sibling disagreements and other situations that can lead to

problems. You stay out of it as much as possible; your presence in the argument only sets up a triangle and produces a “winner” and a “loser” in the disagreement.

Spend Quality Family Time Together

* Read together. This presents the opportunity for another series of daytrips to the library, followed by together time.

* Talk; your children never get too much of your time. Take advantage of the opportunity while they still want to talk to you.

* Plan a variety of activities together. Check online for free activities in the Huntsville area: Botanical Gardens, Burritt, Sci-Quest, Art-League, etc.

Exercise the Mind * Have fun, interesting, and educational magazines available * Help find safe, informative, and interactive web sites to explore * Stock up on good books from the library * Have games, puzzles, and art supplies on hand * Allow for unstructured play-time; NOT baseball, soccer, dance etc. Think Kids -

space, sandboxes, swings, etc. Exercise the Body * Go swimming; local pool, Natatorium, Point Mallard * Ride bikes; Aldridge Creek greenway * Go on walks; Monte Sano, Green Mountain * Do activities that involve physical activity

Other upcoming events:


Saturday, June 13 Bicentennial Banquet (by reservation)



Following Worship– Dinner on the Grounds (by reservation)





s 12:1-2

Homecoming Sunday, June 14

On Sunday, June 14, First Baptist Church members will be saying “Welcome Home” to former members and staff as well as guests. As our extended FBC family joins together on Homecoming Sunday we will celebrate 200 years of First Baptist Church, Huntsville with a day of worship and fellowship. Please note that it will also be a “casual Sunday.” As we begin there will be a time of gathering and greeting at the East Entrance starting at 8:30 a.m. Come by on your way to Sunday School and say hello to friends old and new. Following the Bible Study hour we will gather for the Homecoming Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. (First Fellowship will not meet on this day.) The Reunion Choir will offer pre-service music. Among those leading in the worship service will be J. T. Ford, Ralph Langley, David Hull and the Reunion Choir. In re-sponse to the many special requests, we will hear again "Run the Race with Perseverance", the Michael Cox anthem commissioned for the Bicentennial.

Following worship, we will gather in front of the church for a Church-wide picture.

For those who made reservations, dinner on the grounds will also follow wor-ship. Children will have an opportunity to enjoy games and activities from the past. You are welcome to visit as long as you like.

We look forward to a joyful time of worship and fellowship together.

TESTIMONIALS ABOUT SOME FBC MEMBERS WHO INFLUENCED OUR LIVES

Nathalee (Mrs. Richard C. Jr.) Callaway Written by Janet Crawford

One of the dearest persons of my acquaintance in my years at First Baptist Church is Nathalee Callaway (Mrs. Richard C. Jr.). Nathalee and Dick, her husband, were one set of youth teachers during my teen-age years. They cared for us as if we were their own, if we allowed that to happen. They planned very meaningful service-related activities for us. One in particular, I will never forget. The activity revolved around a Christmas Party for six children who lived in a slum area of our city which was affec-tionately (?) known as "Bugger Town.” We brought these children to FBC, then on the corner of Clinton and Gallatin Streets, to the basement which was our Fellowship Hall. One particular little girl, Mary, age 6, took "possession" of me, even to the indifference to her gifts. Even as a 16-year old I knew that this child's body was too warm. This particular night was also Adult Choir Rehearsal night. One of the members of our choir was Dr. Bill Kates, a family physician. I explained to Nathalee that I felt that Mary was not well. After feeling the child, she agreed and called Dr. Kates to come down to the party where he announced that Mary had pneumonia. So Nathalee and I took Mary to Huntsville Hospital, followed by Dr. Kates. You might think my story ends here, but, alas it does not. Mary held me tight until her mother arrived which was around midnight. So now I was in trouble with MY mother who was expecting me home after two hours at the party to "baby sit" my two sisters. When I got home, Mother was furious. But when I got home from school the next afternoon, she met me with open arms and tears of apology. All because Nathalee had called to tell her what a paragon of love and compassion I was! I miss seeing Nathalee around FBC, but I know that where she lives now she is still loving and caring for those around her.

Charles Ronald Martin Written by Leisa Martin Smith

Charles Ronald Martin was a carpenter. He loved to make and build things out of wood. He built, restored, refinished and refurbished pieces of furniture for many of his friends and family. He loved Jesus and followed his teachings. Ron was a tall man, six foot four, and towered over several of his friends, but was a gentle giant. He was a kind man and loved his friends and family. Ron was born in 1933. He moved his family to Huntsville and FBC in 1963. He worked for NASA until he retired in 1988. Squatley (a self-named group of FBC camping families) and family camping trips were a favorite. Some of his and Pat’s best friends were formed through these campouts. After moving to Huntsville, he served God through this church as a deacon, Sunday School department director and teacher, an FBC builder, and a choir member. He loved to sing, had a beautiful bass voice and enjoyed the old gospel music. One of his favorites was “I’ll Fly Away.” He had a heart for missions. He traveled far and wide on mission trips, going to Missouri, South Carolina, Alaska, Canada, South America and the Czech Republic, building as he went. He worked on the Lincoln Village pro-ject and helped build a Habitat House. He was also involved in the two-year build of the Brownsboro Baptist Church. The steeple was actually built in his back yard and hauled over to the church on Steve Tondera’s trailer. Dad had many wonderful experiences with this First Baptist family and loved them all. He left behind several examples of his fine handiwork: two pulpits for the sanctuary, a prayer bench and communion table, a cross lectern, and several bookcase and shelving building projects. Cancer took him in 2006, way too soon. I am sure he is singing as he builds beside Jesus.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 22, June 4, 2009


WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

(Written by a former child)

Each of us (parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher or friend) influences the life of a child. Children are watching you and doing as you do, not as you say.

When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make my favorite cake for me and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life. When you thought I wasn't looking, I heard you say a prayer, and I knew there is a God I could always talk to and I learned to trust in God. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it and I learned we have to take care of what we are given. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grew up. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw tears come from your eyes and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's alright to cry. When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw that you cared and I wanted to be everything that I could be. When you thought I wasn't looking, I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up. When you thought I wasn't looking, I looked at you and wanted to say, "Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking." As a grandparent I am reminded again that …LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Ben Bragg 117 Westbury Dr SW Huntsville AL 35802-1619 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Ben & Wendy Bragg in the loss of his father and Mary Elizabeth Bragg in the loss of her grandfather, James W. Bragg, Jr. Madge Genter in the loss of her brother, Gene McDaniel Bobby & Beverly Miller in the loss of his father and Todd Miller and Meredyth Miller in the loss of their grandfather, Robert Miller

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Susan Stinson (Huntsville High PTSA), and Joyce Royston. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Lord, help me to sow a seed, to fill a need, to lift a load,

as I travel the Emmaus Road.

The above verse appeared on the “Cracker Barrel” page of the June 2009 issue of Mature Living, written by our own Bill Boulton.

LIBRARY NEWS Do you struggle to find family-friendly faith-based films at your movie rental store? Look no further!! The FBC Library will now offer contemporary family movie titles. Our first offerings include “The Passion of the Christ,” “Facing the Giants.” “The Ultimate Gift,” and, of course, “Fireproof.”

Please stop by the library to check out these great Christian movies, not only for your entertainment, but also spiritual enrichment. And keep an eye out for new titles as we expand our inventory based on your response to this exciting new media offering from your church library. See you soon!!

October 30, 2008


Our first meeting was on October 22, 2006. Since then the Bicentennial Celebration Committee has been meeting regularly and working hard to plan and implement the events for our anniversary celebration. We

elected Dana Lee Jennings and Bill Lucas to Co-Chair our Committee. Members of the Committee then dreamed about what could happen during 2009. Plans began to emerge. Assignments were made to each Committee member to help us carry out the plans. Many additional people were recruited to make events happen. Now, after years of work, we come down to a big Homecoming Weekend. I hope that you will join me in thanking the following folks for their work on this Bicentennial Celebration Committee: Patty Atherton, Scott Boothe, Glenn Brown, Charlotte Davis, Nancy Harrison, Dana Lee Jennings, Bill Lucas, Carolyn Miller, and Dottie Richardson (Billy Orton and David Hull, ex officio). They truly have done excellent work in preparing us for the special events of this year. Early in the work of this Committee we developed a Purpose Statement. It is always good to review to see if what we have been doing has been living up to our purpose. We wrote, “The purpose of the 200th Anniversary Celebration for First Baptist Church in Huntsville is to glorify God through telling the story of the past, featuring the ministries of today, and projecting enthusiasm for the future.” So, as we move through this weekend I hope that you will . . . Glorify God Tell some stories of the past Experience the ministry of our church in the present Be filled with a sense of enthusiasm for our future. The Footprints Continue. . . Happy Anniversary!

Homecoming Weekend Saturday, June 13

Bicentennial Banquet at the VBC - 6:00 p.m. (by reservation)

Dr. David Hull – Master of Ceremonies Speakers: Former Pastors,

Dr. Allen Walworth and Dr. Dennis Wiles with

The FBC Orchestra - ”A Mighty Fortress is Our God “ (arr. Kirkland)

Solo by Emily Hull Music from Billy Orton and Elizabeth Hostetter

Sunday, June 14

8:45 a.m. - Greet former staff - East Entrance 9:15 a.m. - Sunday School

10:20 a.m. - Mini-concert by the Reunion Choir “Soon Ah Will Be Done” (Dawson)

“I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord “ (arr. David Lowe) FBC Orchestra selection

10:30 a.m. Combined Worship Service

Remembrances by former pastors, Dr. J.T. Ford and Dr. Ralph Langley

Sermon: Dr. David Hull “The Footprints and the Foundation”

1 Corinthians 3:5-23

Service Anthems by Combined Choirs: “Bound for the Promised Land “(arr. Wilberg)

“Run the Race with Perseverance” (Cox) “God of Grace and God of Glory” (Langston)

Following Worship - Dinner on the Grounds (by reservation)

No evening service or activities

December 18, 2008 June 11, 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, June 14 “Homecoming Sunday” NO FIRST FELLOWSHIP Meet and Greet Former 8:45 AM Staff Members/East Entrance Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Mini-Concert /Reunion Choir,Sanct 10:20 AM Combined Worship Svc/Sanctuary 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM “Dinner on the Grounds” 11:45 AM

Monday, June 15 Heritage Ringers/Sanct 7:00 PM Tuesday, June 16 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM CWJC/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Wednesday, June 17 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 18 Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, June 19 VBS Set-Ups 8:00 AM—2:00 PM

Saturday, June 20 June 15-20: Student M-Fuge Camp

VBS

June 22-25

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Youth Choir/Tour Choir REUNION WEEKEND! June 12-14 Friday night fellowship Saturday morning rehearsal Sunday morning sing for Homecoming Worship Service See friends new and old……..former directors…….be a featured part of the Bicentennial Celebration……sing some wonderful music with 135+ other singers! More info and registration can be found at www.fbchsv.org or by contacting the Music Ministry Office

Bicentennial Music Highlights— * Saturday night banquet will feature the FBC Orchestra and soloist Emily Hull

* Sunday morning worship service will begin EARLY with a Pre-Service Mini-Concert by the “Reunion Choir!” * Music from the Sanctuary Choir, Reunion Choir and FBC Orchestra, including a reprise of the commissioned anthem (“Run the Race with Perseverance” by Cox) * Closing anthem by combined choirs, including the CURRENT Youth Choir (“God of Grace and God of Glory” by Langston)

July 6-10 Final presentations on Sunday evening, July 12 Registrations are now open! You can register online or simply call the Music Ministry Office Camp leaders— KinderCamp directed by Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen Younger Camp directed by Amanda Allen Older Camp directed by Lea Hoppe Faculty and staff are still being enlisted. Contact the MM Office if you are interested. INVITE CHILDREN TO THIS TERRIFIC WEEK OF MUSICAL AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH! First Family, The summer is a wonderful time to expand horizons, both personally and corporately. We are currently looking to expand our First Fellowship ministry team. We are looking

for instrumentalists (primarily acoustic, electric, and bass guitar players, and trap set drummers) to assist in leading worship in our First Fellowship service. Experienced musical skill is preferred, but a receptive and worshipful heart is an absolute must. This can be a temporary or long-term commitment, based on your availability. We will hold informal auditions in order to assess where you best fit in our First Fellowship worship team.

Requirements:

-help one of our contemporary praise bands lead worship on Sunday mornings in First Fellowship, at least two times each month

-consistently practice once a week with one of our praise bands, and practice on your own to achieve musical excellence

-lead worship not just on stage on Sundays, but through the way you live your life everyday If you are interested in serving our Lord and our church in this capacity, please contact Lee Deutschendorf,[email protected] or 428-9446.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, June 17 Adults

Spaghetti - Green Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad

Chef’’s Salad (Reservations for salad must be turned


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 36 - June 7, 2009


This Week $107,937.51 YTD $2,985,766.28


ATTENDANCE - SUNDAY, JUNE 7, 2009

Sunday School



Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from Fran Jacks and Bill and Betty Lee. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.


WHERE ARE YOUR FOOTPRINTS LEADING? We have talked a lot since the beginning of this year about: footprints, following those who have gone before, the great cloud of witnesses, et al. Our Preschool hallways have had footprints in them for

years and when we replaced them a few years ago we had a lot of you upset because they were gone for a short period of time. We all feel more secure when we know where we are headed, and having someone who has gone before us to map out the terrain or to make a path for us makes it easier for us to enter or to follow. If we want the pathway to stay clear, we need to have those who will continue to walk it. If we want our children to be taught, we must have volunteers who will teach. Have you thought about where your footprints will lead and who will follow in them? If you are seeking a place to make a difference, why not call the Childhood Ministries Office, 428-9411, and talk to us about where you can serve in Preschool and Children’s Ministries in the year ahead. We are currently putting together our Sunday School Staffs for next year and would love to talk to you about a place for your feet (and heart) to lead!

As the mission trip to Pecs, Hungary approaches (July 15-26), we want to ask our church to partner with the mission team members in praying for this trip. Here are some ways you can participate: 1. Begin praying now for the students and adults traveling to Pecs to work with Glen

and Clista Adkins and their ministry. On Sunday, June 21, the congregation will be given prayer cards that will include the trip participants and the overall purpose of the trip.

2. Commit to praying for one hour while we are on the mission trip. There is a 12-day, 24-hour prayer grid with hourly slots available for your to sign up on the bulletin board outside Jamie’s office. Sign up for an hour to pray while we are on the trip. You will receive a trip schedule to know what we will be doing during that particular hour to assist the direction of your prayer.

3. Trip participants will be coming to every adult Sunday school class to share for just a few minutes about the trip and to request your prayer support over the next few Sundays. Listen to them and pray for them and the trip after they share.

4. Pray for Glen and Clista Adkins, CBF Missionaries, and their ministry in Pecs and the Gandhi School with Roma students. Did you know that Clista grew up in FBC?

5. Celebrate how the “footprints” are continuing through the sending of these students to minister to the Roma people group in Pecs!

Thank you, FBC Huntsville, for all the support you have already given towards this mission trip. Now, we also express our gratitude for sending us with your prayers!

The Footprints Continue...


Saturday, June 13

Bicentennial Dinner Von Braun Center North Hall

Six o’clock in the evening (by reservation)

Join in the inspiring celebration program featuring former pastors - Allen Walworth and Dennis Wiles.

Share in the lighting of the 200 Bicentennial Candles. Marvel at the 10-foot high Bicentennial Cake - a work of art.

FBC musicians will lead in the celebration as our pastor David Hull serves as the

Master of Ceremonies.

Business Attire Please park at the city lot (Old Meadow Gold) and

Lot K across Clinton Avenue

Sunday, June 14 – Homecoming Sunday 8:45 - Meet and Greet with Former Staff (East Entrance)

9:15 – Sunday School 10:20– Mini Concert from Reunion Choir

10:30–Worship (featuring former pastors–Ralph Langley and J.T. Ford) Following worship – Group photograph in Sanctuary

Following photograph – Dinner on the Grounds (by reservation) Tents will be set up in parking area behind Fellowship Hall for picnic.

Extra parking will be available in doctors’ parking lots across St. Clair.





s 12:1-2

Hannah Maxwell 824 Loukell Ave SE Huntsville, AL 35802-2654 Donald McElyea 811 Annlau Ave SE Huntsville, AL 35802-2606 Charlotte McManus 7809 Haven St SE Huntsville, AL 35802-3259 Nina Perry 1706 Haynes Ave NE Huntsville AL 35811-2154 Garrett Rogers 10020 Willow Cove Rd SE Huntsville, AL 35803-2624 Judy Rollins 1006 Hermitage Ave. SE Huntsville, AL 35801 Floyd & Clara Seals 107 River Walk Trl New Market, AL 35761-7673 Jonah Smythe 7712 Foxfire Dr SE Huntsville, AL 35802-2718 Samuel Smythe 7712 Foxfire Dr SE Huntsville, AL 35802-2718 Brian Temple P.O. Box 14095 Huntsville, AL 35815 Clay Tucker 701 Solitude Circle SE Brownsboro, AL 35741-9383 Jack Tucker 701 Solitude Circle SE Brownsboro, AL 35741-9383

Ken & Teri Wales 120 Liberty Dr Madison, AL 35758-8397

Jim, Marian and Burns Accardi 808 Mullins Hill Dr SE Huntsville, AL 35802-1964 Austin Boothe 142 Sarah Jane Dr. Madison, AL 35757-7738 Dale Fatzer 408 Eustis Ave SE Apt G Huntsville, AL 35801-4166 Brian Faulkner 210 Flemington Rd SE Huntsville, AL 35802-2304 Sheryl Guffin 2315 Gallatin St. Huntsville, AL 35801 Anna Ingram 1606 Greenwyche Rd SE Huntsville, AL 35801 Erin Jones 1003 Harrison Ave. SE Huntsville, AL 35801-3140 James G. Jones 1513 Sun Valley Rd SE Huntsville, AL 35801-2102 Patti Lindow 142 Spring Water Dr. Madison, AL 35758 Ryan & Heather MacKrell 112 Saint Anne Rd Madison, AL 35758-6117 Natsuki Marsh 243 Stardust Cir Toney, AL 35773-9396 William Mastin 1510 Toney Dr SE Huntsville, AL 35802-1233

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of Ju Jien “J.J.” Kwan

SCHOOL BACKPACKS FOR

THE CHILDREN OF COUNCILL COURT

One of the mission pro-jects our church has adopted for the past several years is providing school backpacks for the children at Councill Court. Since all residents will be moving by the end of the year, this will be our last time to par-ticipate in this project. Many children will attend Blossomwood and Huntsville Middle for the first semester so we want them to have a good beginning. We will be requesting general supplies instead of specific grade level supplies because the applications will be less than in other years. One of our projects for Serving the City was furnishing needed supplies for Harris Home. As a continuation of this project, we will be providing backpacks for the teenagers who live there. The home houses teens from Seventh to Twelfth Grade. There are 30 who live there: 20 males and 10 females. They will all require large backpacks. July 5th is the start date for collect-ing supplies. There will be collection con-tainers located in the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall. A list of needed supplies will be on the web site, in your Sunday School Department boxes and at the Welcome Centers. Cash donations are always welcome. Please begin think-ing now how as an individual, a family, and a Sunday School Department you want to participate in this mission project for the final time. If you have questions or comments, please call or email Debbie Howard at 256-882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you in advance for your participation.

Family Matters




During the week of Vacation Bible School the FBC Library will be open

during the following times:

Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 11:45—12:20

Wednesday: 11:45—12:30 and 3:00—5:00

PICTURES FOR

“GOD AND COUNTRY” CELEBRATION

Again this year we will have a special patriotic service and supper. This will be held on Wednesday night, July 1. As before, we will have a slide presentation to honor all military personnel, living and deceased, connected to our church family. If you have not previously submitted a picture to be included in this presentation and would like to do so, please bring the picture to Nancy Moore in the Church Office. It will be scanned and returned to you. Please bring the photo by the office before June 21.

October 30, 2008


Praise God from whom all blessings flow! This wonderful, memorable weekend was made special because... We glorified God and praised our Lord who is the foundation for our faith and our church We worked together as a team and did more together than we ever could on our own We celebrated, laughed, cried, sang, ate, worshiped, hugged, and prayed We offered thanks for the past and “lived into” dreams for the future. We experienced grace and responded to challenge with commitment. We listened to stories that we had heard before and told new stories of faith and love We were made grateful by memories of yesterday and inspired by hope for the future We were surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, and will run with perseverance the race before us!

Sunday, June 21 We celebrate our fathers. Dr. Hull begins a new series:

“Family Matters” A Study of the Parable of the Prodigal Son

Luke 15:11-32

This Sunday’s Sermon: “Family Matters: The Father”


Music by Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music by Sanctuary Choir-

“Keep Your Lamps” - Thomas

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. Worship in the Chapel with Dr. Hull

December 18, 2008 June 18, 2009

Caribbean Mission Project – November 21-28

This mission project, to be led by Dr. Jerry Graham, will be to the Dominican Republic, working with Haitian immigrants. Although medical personnel will be needed, there is also the need for assis-tance in non-medical areas as well. People needed are pharma-cist, dentist, and other workers to help with distributing medicines, witnessing, and assisting the eye glasses team. No experience needed for the helpers... each person will receive training. This group will be working with the SBC missionaries Sam and Delores York. The cost of the trip will be between $1200 and $1500 depending on airline cost. There will be some financial assistance available. A passport will be required. If you are interested or need more infor-mation, contact Laura at Dr. Graham’s office, 256-461-7482. There will be an interest meeting in July to provide all information. Watch for the date and time in this newsletter.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, June 21 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM VBS Set-Ups 10:15 AM-5:00 PM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Music Camp Auditions/CR 3:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Boy Scout Comm/342 4:00 PM Worship/Chapel 5:00 PM

Monday, June 22 VBS—June 22-25 Tuesday, June 23 A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Wednesday, June 24 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Music Camp Auditions/CR 1:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir.CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 25 Friday, June 26 Saturday, June 27 Deacon Family Picnic/ 10:00 AM—3:00 PM Off Site

LANGLEY GOLF TOURNAMENT

The 20th Annual Langley Golf Tournament was held on May 29th, 2009. We had 117 golfers participating this year and we raised over $1600 for our youth mission trip. The big winners were Ron Lynch, Jonathan Lynch, Zach Lynch, and Nick Lynch. We would like to thank everyone who helped us with the tournament and with the snack and drink sales. We look forward to seeing you for the 21st annual tournament next year!

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Sabbatical and Study Leave For the next several weeks I will be on the first part of my sabbatical leave. I plan to use this time for discovery in three areas outlined below, some writing and reading, and some respite days. The three areas of study will involve traveling to several US cities. One area of study will be to develop a mission site that will have the advantage of offering a variety of tasks requiring many different sets of skills and gifts. This site would be family friendly and within one day’s driving distance from Huntsville. The second area will be to visit several churches and community mission centers to find fresh ways to meet needs in our community. The third area of study would involve investigating other models of outreach to the community. At this time I am in my 22nd year of ministry with First Baptist Church and in my 39th year of being in Christian ministry. I would like to say “thank you” to you, the members of First Baptist and to the church in general, for the privilege of serving in this place. I also appreciate the forward thinking of the church to offer sabbatical leave to all full-time ministers. I ask for your prayers for this time of discovery. I hope to see and learn many new things that may help in future ministries and missions.

SCHOOL BACKPACKS FOR THE CHILDREN OF COUNCILL COURT

One of the mission projects our church has adopted for the past several years is providing school backpacks for the children of Councill Court. Since all residents will be moving by the end of the year, this will be our last time to participate in this project. Many children

will attend Blossomwood and Huntsville Middle for the first semester so we want them to have a good beginning. We will be requesting general supplies instead of specific grade level supplies because the applications will be less than in other years. One of our projects for Serving the City was furnishing needed supplies for Harris Home. As a continuation of this project, we will be providing backpacks for the teenagers who live there. The home houses teens from Seventh to Twelfth Grade. There are 30 who live there: 20 males and 10 females. They will all require large backpacks. July 5th is the start date for collecting supplies. There will be collection containers located in the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall. A list of needed supplies will be on the web site, in your Sunday School Department boxes, and at the Welcome Centers. Cash donations are always welcome. Please begin thinking now how as an individual, a family, and a Sunday School Department you want to participate in this mission project for the final time. If you have questions or comments, please call or email Debbie Howard at 256-882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you in advance for your participation.


SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, July 24th at the CLC. There will be 3 sessions on this date: from 8:30 am—2pm, from 2pm—5pm, and from 5pm—10pm. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI

Menu Wednesday, June 24

Chicken Salad

Cool & Colorful Pasta Salad Pear Salad

Poppy Seed Muffin

Salad



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #37— June 14, 2009


This Week $52,439.23 YTD $3,038,205.51


ATTENDANCE - JUNE 14, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services Sanctuary Worship 1720 TOTAL 1720

Thanks

A thank you note has been received from Mary Elizabeth Bragg. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.


GOING TO CHURCH I love to sleep in late. In fact, on most days, I don’t even set my alarm clock. I let my daughter be my alarm and I enjoy every precious minute of extra sleep when she decides to sleep in, too. The only day I set my alarm and get up with it, even if my daughter’s not awake yet, is Sunday. Why? Because we go to church on Sunday. I don’t always crawl out of bed eagerly on Sunday mornings and some weeks we’re a little slower than others, but we always get up and go. You don’t have to go to church to be saved or even to worship the Lord, but I believe church is very important. I’ve made it a priority for myself and my family for several reasons: 1. I want to show God He’s a priority. It just doesn’t make sense to say, “God, I really appreciate all the things you’ve done for me and all the blessings You’ve given me this week and I hope You’ll be with me next week, but I just can’t make it to church, today. I know You’ve set this day aside for us to worship You, but I’ve just got better things to do.” We are commanded to make the Lord our number one priority. Sadly, we’re sinful and we rarely make Him number one in our lives. But going to church is a small way to show God that we do want to make Him our priority. Matthew 22:37: “Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’” 2. Worship You don’t have to go to church to worship the Lord. You can and should worship Him with your whole life. But scheduled time set aside to worship the Lord with other Christians has special value, too. Sometimes it is accompanied by warm fuzzies and sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it’s something deeper that you may only realize the significance of later. Worship is work, not just something to make us feel good. Worship is a sacrifice we make that pleases the Lord, but it also benefits our spirits. Romans 12:1 : “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - This is your spiritual act of worship.” Psalm 34:9 : “Worship GOD if you want the best; worship opens doors to all his goodness.” 3. Fellowship Not taking advantage of the opportunity to go to church and be with other believers would be like living in the same town with all your relatives and never going to visit them. We’re all members of God’s family and we belong together. Ephesians 2:19: “You are members of God’s very own family, citizens of God’s country, and you belong in God’s household with every other Christian.” There’s not much we can do alone, apart from our body of believers. Romans 12:4-5: “Each part gets its meaning from the body as a whole, not the other way around. The body we’re talking about is Christ’s body of chosen people. Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body. But as a chopped-off finger or cut-off toe we wouldn’t amount to much, would we?” Fellowship with other Christians gives us a deeper understanding of the richness of our blessings. Philemon 1:6 : “My prayer is that our fellowship with you as believers will bring about a deeper understanding of every blessing which we have in our life in union with Christ.” 4. Spiritual Food I don’t know about you, but I sure need all the help I can get in navigating through life. I value every single bit of God’s wisdom, insight and truth that I can get. And what better place to get it than at church from God’s very Word through reading, studying, listening and discussing it with other Christians. Ephesians 6:13-17: “Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.” Author: Heather Roberts - Check out our website at www.totallyawesomegrace.com

Memorials January 1, 2009 to May 31, 2009

ANNIE ARMSTRONG OFFERING

Mrs. Ila Glaze Max & Mary Ella Croft

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORP

Mrs. Ila Glaze Jane Elizabeth Carter

FBC BUILDING FUND

Mrs. Irene Adams Corinne & Graham Shovelton

Mr. Herbert Batt

Hoyte & Maxine Johnson

Mrs. Beatrice Tanner Bell R. D. & Dathern Moon

Mr. Claude Dyar

Corinne & Graham Shovelton

Mrs. Ila Glaze Ethel Bush & Andrew Bush

Agnes C. Gatlin Gene Gilliam

Tom & Becky Hall Chuck & Dolores Johnson Hoyte & Maxine Johnson

Bill & Anne Gatlin King William & Polly Lucas R. D. & Dathern Moon

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor George & Sally Schubert

Mrs. Theresa Jesup

Sue & Donna Thornton

Mr. Borton Tranter Janet Crawford

Sue & Donna Thornton

Mr. Barry Vines American General Financial Services Employees: Lynda, Chris & Charley

Anonymous

FBC MISSIONS Mr. Herbert Batt

Richard & Mary Jeffries Ann & Latham Walker

Mr. Claude Dyar

Richard & Mary Jeffries

FBC TELEVISION MINISTRY Mrs. Jean Cannon

Elizabeth W. Whitten

Mrs. Ila Glaze John C. Weaver

Mrs. Aileen Halcomb

Billy & Dot Barnes Donald & Ginger Bishop

Roy & Gina Bradley Ethel Bush & Andrew Bush

Gail O. Clever Robert Coates, Jr.

The Kenneth Deatherage Family Carol S. Duffey

Joyce & Charles Edgar, Jr. Branch & Gene Fleming

John & Eva Geiger Halcomb & Wertheim P. C.

Jane Harrington Charlene & Henry Hill Jean & Tom Houser

Frances Jacks Frances & Winfred Jones

The Jerry Ledbetters Bill & Polly Lucas

Jack & Evelyn Lucas James & Linda Maples R. D. & Dathern Moon

Carl A. Morring, Jr. Elizabeth Peery

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor Renfroe Animal Hospital

Ellen & Charles Robinson Evelyn R. Shelton

Mrs. Aileen Halcomb, continued Cliff & Sue Ellen Sisson

Glenda & Richard Smallwood Vivian R. Smithson

Ann & Latham Walker William & Diane Waud

John C. Weaver Elizabeth Whitten

RALPH LANGLEY SCHOLARSHIP

Mrs. Aileen Halcomb Gail O. Clever

LOTTIE MOON MISSION OFFERING

Mrs. Mary Lib Apple Max & Mary Ella Croft

Mr. Jack Couch Mr. Louis Dees

Mr. James L. “Jim” Flinn Mr. Bill Lucas, Jr. Mr. Borton Tranter Mrs. Maxie Wells Mr. Tim Wilson

George & Ruth Merritt

MEMORIAL FUND Mrs. Irene Adams

Harriet & Horace Bibb Mr. & Mrs. John S. Epps

Beth & Bill Fleming Neal & Virginia Walker Jennings

William & Polly Lucas Cynthia “Jo” Pryor Louise B. O’Reilly

Frank Tatom Ann & Latham Walker

Mrs. Beatrice Tanner Bell

Cliff & Sue Ellen Sisson

Mrs. Jean Cannon Ethel Bush & Andrew Bush

Michael & Karen Riley

Mr. Claude Dyar Sue E. Dean

Mr. James L. “Jim” Flinn Cary H. Johnston

Cliff & Sue Ellen Sisson

Mrs. Ila Glaze Henry & Charlene Hill Joe & Jeanette Hunter

Mr. Bill Lucas, Jr.

Eva & Stephen L. Johnston, Sr. Cliff & Sue Ellen Sisson

Mrs. Amelia Maddox

Joe and Beth Clark Jack & Evelyn Lucas

Dr. & Mrs. Walter Mills The Orthopedic Center

Cynthia “Jo” Pryor The Jerry Roden Family

Mrs. Doris Melton Walter S. Melton, III

Mr. Carlyle Smith Dolores W. Cooley

Mr. Borton Tranter Nathalee Callaway

Richard & Patricia Kalmbacher

Mr. Barry Vines John & Betty Sue Gore

Celia S. Johnson

MUSIC MINISTRY

Dr. D. K. Cross Johnnie’s Prayer Group

WORLD HUNGER

Ms. Linda Perry Richard Langseth




Creativity and Wisdom in Aging Ward Tanneberg

It is often taken for granted in these modern times, even accepted to be scientific fact, that creativity's decline is inevitable with age. Dean Keith Simonton, professor of psychology at the University of California, Davis, noted that, "In ancient times, and in most traditional cultures, aging was often synonymous with the acquisition of wisdom. . .(but) Within the last few centuries, the notion has become ever more prevalent that there is an optimum age for exceptional achievement, after which an inexorable decline sets in . . . According to Einstein, who won his Nobel Prize on quantum theory that he published when merely 26 years old, "a person who has not made his great contributions to science before the age of 39 will never do so."1 (Okay, so nobody can be smart all the time in everything; not even Einstein!) When you think you may well be the dullest post on earth, remember that Winston Churchill became prime minister for the final time at age 77. Grandma Moses didn't get started painting until she was 79. Oliver Wendell Holmes was still making law on the Supreme Court at 90. Albert Schweitzer was that age, too, working with lepers in his hospital at Lambarene. Then there was Michelangelo who was shaping great sculpture until the very week he died at age 89. Geniuses all, you say? Of course they were. But here's the take away that we 'normal human beings' don't want to miss. After reviewing all these studies, Simonton concluded by saying, "Contribution for contribution . . . age becomes utterly irrelevant in the anticipation of creative impact . . . Usually creators in their sixties and seventies are at least as productive as they were in their twenties.2 In fact, it seems there is an aspect of wisdom which younger people are not able to grasp. Some elements drawn from a lifetime of experience can only really be understood much later on. So don't buy into the myth of inexorable decline. Not every older person will be wise, but we could be, and we should be. There is a larger percentage of wise older persons than among the young, in that some aspects of wisdom gathering and dispensing are only made possible by living longer. Then there are those aspects of wisdom that come from relationship with our always present, almighty, all-knowing God. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him" (James 1:5). Whatever you do, don't give in or give up. You earned those wrinkles and now God wants to be certain you invest what you earned. Give yourself away to others. Be some young man or woman's 'new best friend.' Delight yourself in the life and love of your peers. Let your unique, God-given creativity and wisdom flow. Share the love of Jesus daily. Be God's man or woman in the best years of your life, the extra years the Lord has blessed you with! 1 Dean Keith Simonton, "Does Creativity Decline in Later Years?," in Late Life Potential, Marion Perlmutter, ed. (Gerontological Society of America, 1990), p 83 2 Simonton, op. cit

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Ralph & Martha Edfeldt in the loss of their grandson and Joy & Michael Moore in the loss of their nephew, Jacob Edfeldt Family and friends of our member, Jeff Riddle, especially to his wife, Christine Riddle OUR NEWEST Owen Maxwell Davenport, son of Wes and Mary Beth Davenport, Jamestown, North Carolina, born June 3, 2009. Proud grandparents are Gary and Pat Chambers and great-grandmother Betty Patterson.

PICTURES FOR “GOD AND COUNTRY”

CELEBRATION

Again this year we will have a special patriotic service and supper. This will be held on Wednesday night, July 1. As before, we will have a slide presentation to honor all military personnel, living and deceased, connected to our church family. If you have not previously submitted a picture to be included in this presentation and would like to do so, please bring the picture to Nancy Moore in the Church Office. It will be scanned and returned to you. Please bring the photo by the office before June 21. GETTING TO KNOW YOU

Thursday, June 25 6:00 p.m. - CLC

Bring a covered dish. For information,

Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107

October 30, 2008

First

Thoughts David Hull, Pastor

Baptists began 400 years ago this year. From the very beginning, we have always championed the cause of religious liberty. Our movement

began with a group who broke away from the Church of England because church and state were too closely co-mingled. Then in the early days of our own country, Baptists like John Leland fought for the Bill of Rights that would preserve religious liberty for all. The Fourth of July is a wonderful time for us as Baptists to affirm our religious freedoms and to thank God that we live in a country where we can enjoy this liberty. On Wednesday night, July 1, we have a special supper and service that will help us to offer thanks to God for these freedoms. We will follow the regular Wednesday night time schedule, but the program will have a special flavor to it. Wear your red, white, and blue as we decorate the room with our patriotic colors. After the fellowship meal a program will follow that includes patriotic music. Members of the Boy Scout Troop that our church sponsors will also lead in the program. Once again we will offer a slide presentation that honors members of our church who have served in the military. Each year the number of pictures grows as we remember these who served so that we might maintain our freedoms. It promises to be a great night of fellowship and inspiration. I hope that you will be present for the event.

Sunday, June 28 Sermon:

“Family Matters: The Younger Son” Luke 15:11-32

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by A20 and Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem: Softly and Tenderly

(arr. Clausen)


with Chris Sims, recent graduate, Duke Divinity School,

Durham, North Carolina

December 18, 2008 June 25, 2009

“God and Country” Celebration

A special patriotic service and supper Wednesday Evening, July 1 4:45 p.m. - Fellowship Hall

Bruce Zeiger, trumpet solo

Ladies Ensemble Slide Presentation of FBC Armed Forces Members

Program will feature FBC Boy Scout Troop (# 70)

Meal: Chicken Finger Basket, Chips,

Cole Slaw, Brownie Cost: $6 - No Salad

Ministry Calendar Sunday, June 28 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Eye Glasses Training/242 2:30 PM Stu. Family Day at the Lake 2:00 PM Worship/Chapel 5:00 PM

Monday, June 29 Tuesday, June 30 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scout Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Webelo Cub Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Wednesday, July 1 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM “God & Country” Celebration/FH 4:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Saxaphone Ensemble/Sanct 7:30 PM Thursday, July 2 Friday, July 3 Church Offices and CLC Closed

Saturday, July 4 Building will be closed.

FBC DEACON NOMINATIONS

Each year our church family is given the opportunity to nominate and elect, from among it’s membership, 12 adults to serve a 3-year term of commitment as deacons of our fellowship. Deacon nominations will open on Sunday, July 5. Church members are asked to begin praying now for nominees. Deacon nomination forms and qualifications can be found in the church office and on-line at www.fbchsv.org


July 6-10, 9:00 AM – 2 PM Summer is definitely upon us! It seems like just yesterday we were bundled up, hurrying inside to get to the heaters and now we’re hurrying inside to reach the air conditioning! So while summer certainly means hot weather, it also means it’s time for Music Camp! We have three different camps with different themes – KinderCamp for children who have completed Kindergarten, Younger Camp for children who have completed 1st and 2nd Grades, and Older Camp for children who have completed Grades 3-6. KinderCamp (led by Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen) The theme of KinderCamp this year is “God Colors My World.” Each day we concentrate on a different color with a corresponding Bible story and we spend our mornings in four different Adventure times. We make a craft related to our Bible story of the day and a snack related to the color of the day. We also read a story related to the color of the day and we learn about the wonders of God’s world in puppet time. Each day, our group times are filled with singing, using instruments and playing rhythm and movement games that reinforce our special color of the day. Younger Camp (led by Amanda Allen) First Baptist Church is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year! In the spirit of this wonderful event for our church, the Younger Camp’s theme for Music Camp this year is “Heroes of the Bible.” Our children will be learning about some of the most inspiring people from the Bible, while also participating in some special music and fun breakout sessions involving movement, rhythm play, and instrument instruction! Don’t miss this – it’s going to be great! Older Camp (led by Lea Hoppe) We will be learning the musical, “Rescue in the Night” - a light-hearted, but faithful rendition of the Biblical story of Daniel, focusing on his outstanding example of courage and obedience! Performance opportunities will include being able to choose to be part of the drama, solo singing, or playing instruments. All participants in older camp will have daily encounters with Orff instruments, boomwhackers, crafts, handbells, and even a drum circle! Add to that some fun time in recreation and we have an experience that you will not want to miss! Registration is open now! You can register online at http://fbchsv.org/musicandmissions/MusicCampReg.html, or register in person at the Music Ministry Office or Amanda Allen’s office. Please make plans for your children to attend! This is truly going to be a fantastic summer event at our church! Amanda Allen Minister of Children’s Music & Missions


FYI Menu

Wednesday, July 1 “God and Country” Celebration

Chicken Finger Basket

Chips - Cole Slaw Brownie

NO SALAD



This Week $50,545.50 YTD $3,088,751.01



Sunday School



Caribbean Mission Project – November 21-28

This mission project, to be led by Dr. Jerry Graham, will be to the Dominican Republic, working with Haitian immigrants. Although medical personnel will be needed, there is also the need for assistance in non-medical areas as well. People needed are pharmacist, dentist, and other workers to help with distributing medicines, witnessing, and assisting the eye glasses team. No experience needed for the helpers... each person will receive training. This group will be working with the SBC missionaries Sam and Delores York. The cost of the trip will be between $1200 and $1500 depending on airline cost. There will be some financial assistance available. A passport will be required. If you are interested or need more information, contact Laura at Dr. Graham’s office, 256-461-7482. There will be an interest meeting in July to provide all information. Watch for the date and time in this newsletter.

STAFF FAREWELLS

Sherry Jarnagin who was our Ministry Assistant in the Adult Ministries Office has recently resigned to give more time to family. Sherry has been working with Pam McDaniel (Minister to Young and Median Adults) and Mark Seanor (Minister to Experienced Adults) since the fall of 2006. Thank you Sherry for your work with us in ministry at First Baptist Church.

Debbie Stephenson who was our Accounting Assistant in the Finance Office has recently retired. Debbie has been working with Alison Hoskins (Church Accountant) since the fall of 1996. Thank you Debbie for your work with us in ministry at First Baptist Church.

48 FBC’ers spent last week at M-Fuge mission camp in Nashville.

Pray for Hungary Mission Trip: • Prayer Cards available

outside Student Ministry office.

• 24-Hour Trip Prayer Grid on the bulletin board outside the Student Ministry office. We are asking people to take one hour or more while we are on the mission trip to pray for the trip. this Sunday, June 28

at the Stallcup’s Place on Lake Guntersville

Start Time: 2:00 PM Food & Devotion: 4:30-ish PM

RSVP to [email protected] for food prep. (Thank you!)

Even grades bring sides / Odd grades bring sweets or snacks / All bring drinks

Upcoming Student Activities: July 12—Broom Ball Summer

Sunday Night Fellowship—cost: $10

August 2—Canoeing the Elk

River—cost: $20 / sign-up by July 19.

Homecoming Sunday Committee Janice Allison, Tina Darby, Charlotte Davis, Harry Dellinger, David Giambrone, Betty Lankford Co-Chair, Maxine Newsome, Dottie Richardson Co-Chair, Laura Roberts, Randy Taylor, Jerry Evans w/Greenbrier Restaurant, Ayres Farmers Market, Mary Lou McNabb w/Mary Mac Farms

Hostesses for Homecoming Sunday Paul and Janice Allison, Doyle and Ann Bailey, Brenda Beck, Mike and Shari Burnum, Sammy Butler, Jo Colvin, Larry Creech, Carol Duffey, Bill and Sherree Jones, Frances Jones, Gayla Kidd, David and Toni Morgan, Roger and Ceil Nichols, Howard Sandlin, Nora Towns, Eustis and Amy Walker, Pat Williams, Mary White

Outside Workers for Homecoming Sunday Buddy and Gloria Blackwell, Van and Reva Carrin, Jim and Hazel Foshee, Roy and Pat Heifner, Mike and Jan Mann, Ed Pugh

Singings Groups for Picnic Marian Talley, Dennis O’Dell, Alicia Pettis, Mike Kirk, Rosemary Wolfe, George Barnes, Betty Barnett, Lawton Kitchin, Elisa Fairless, Rodger Keene, Patti Lindow, David Sizemore, BJ Boyanton, Tom Guffin, Kathryn Witherow, Joe Holley, Pat Perry, Joe Zimmerman, Janet Crawford, Polly Crawford, Bill Stone, Jane Orton, Kenneth Matthews, Linda Durrett, Lea Hoppe, Alan Jones, Pam Jones, Frances Jones, Joe Jones, Doyce Bailey, Ann Jones, Jennifer Jones, Laura Faulkner, Randi Jones, Robert Jones, Randy Taylor

Picnic Table Cover Group Friday at l pm group: Kay and Bert Gover, Mary and Bill Jeffries, Amy and Eustis Walker, Jo Ford, Jo Colvin, Linda Powers; Sunday at 7 am group: Amy McKenzie, Brian Leffel, Elaine Leffel, Sarah Leffel, Laura Leffel, Laura Roberts, Dana Mucci, Barbara Sizemore, Sarah Sizemore, Sally Martin

Homecoming Sunday Early Fellowship Susan McClung

Homecoming Sunday Logistics Set up: Paul Glover, Clifton Sisco, Joe Mitchell, Neal Lankford, Boyd Lankford, Graham Lankford, Emily Lankford, Ross Ward, EC Richardson, Joel Lonergan, Colvin Lonergan, Jamie Mackey, Ragan Deal, Cameron McDaniel, Becky Dellinger, Harry Dellinger. Take down: Clifton Sisco, Rosa Sisco, Danny Hallman, Sandra Hallman, Randall Cox, Ross Ward, EC Richardson, George Barnes, Billie Perkins, Ed Perkins, Becky Dellinger, Robby Dellinger, Harry Dellinger, Conor Gattis

Other Homecoming Sunday Helpers Christopher Roberts, Terry Lonergan, Joel Lonergan, John Richardson, Nancy Moore, Lori Kegley, Nancy Harrison, Syble & John Noblin, Julia Perry, Rachel Perry

Homecoming Sunday Photo Bob and Cherry Saint

Bicentennial PowerPoint Allen Godwin

Bicentennial Picnic Celebration Decorating Committee for Tents and Fellowship Hall

Betty Lankford-Head Chairman, Maxine Newsome- Chairman, Casey Broome -Co-Chair, Sally Ennis, Libby Whisenant, Mary Ann Moon, Janet Creech, Jocie Renfroe, Billie Perkins, Sandy Bowlin, Jean Houser, Becky Lambert, JoAnn Bugg, Anna Ingram, Judith Whittington, Martha Odom, Wini Beason, Sandra Hall, JoAnn Malcom, Shirley Thompson, Louise Rhodes, Teri Estes, Donna Rogers, Evelyn Rutland, Ann Ritter, Sandra Hallman. Many ladies donated ferns, flowers and greenery.

Homecoming Picnic Children’s Activities Jeremy Dickson, Caleb Eldridge, Robert Boothe, Kristen Gravlee, Jonathan Gravlee, Erin Westbrook, Sarah Jarnagin, Hallie Caneer, Rachel Taylor, Caroline Caneer, Julianna Darby, Noah Darby, Anna Grace Eldridge, Sarah Sizemore, Sarah Leffel, Stacey Schocke, Lara Daugherty, Emily Leviner, Elaine Leffel, Paul Nelson, Britney Talent Smith, Keith Harris (our awesome bal-loon sculptor!)

Homecoming Picnic Check-In Charlotte Davis, Donna Thornton, Sue Thornton, Jean Walker, Catherine Miller, Linda Hillis, George Davis, Sue McElyea, Julie Oliver, Ron Lankford, Janet Creech, Rosa Sisco

Homecoming Picnic Helpers Neal Lankford *, Ana Lankford *, Boyd Lankford *,Graham Lankford*, Emily Lankford*, Betty Lankford, Ron Lankford, Emma Louise Ennis*, Judson Ennis*, Sallie Ennis, Maxine Newsome, Terry Newsome, Rosa Sisco*, Joyce Freisen*, Lucy Glover*, Linda Causey, Glenda Weatherly*, Betty Tomlin*, Don Tomlin*, George Davis*, Charlotte Davis, Julie Oliver*, Becky Dellinger, Linda Hillis*, Bobby Craig*, Ann Bailey*, Debbie Bell, Sybil Noblin*, John Noblin* * not committee members

History Committee & Others Responsible for New History Book Jim Harrison, Eva Geiger, Kitty Johnson, Scott Boothe, Jo Pryor, Catherine Miller, Joe Jones, Ed Culpepper, Ed Pugh, Kay Bugg, Nancy Adair, Carol Belk, Mary Louise Donahoo, Jud Reasons, Allen Godwin, Nancy Harrison, Jack Lucas, Nancy Moore, Sue McElyea

Bicentennial PR Committee Patty Atherton- PR chair, Joe Jones- co-chair, Lisa Ceci, Dan Smythe, Kim Mims, Melissa Bullard

Bicentennial Photographers Kay Bugg, Kristin Blake, Holly Canup, Lara Daugherty, Karen Jesup, Debbie McDaniel, Susan Wessinger, Ed Perkins, Lee Rhoads, Bobby Saint, Jim Atherton, Patty Atherton, Nancy Harrison

Thank You

Thank You

Bicentennial Children’s Coloring Book Nancy Harrison

Homecoming Sunday Carillon Concert Michael Moore, Darrel Eldridge

Bicentennial Committee Patty Atherton, Scott Boothe, Glenn Brown, Charlotte Davis, Nancy Harrison, David Hull, Co-Chair Dana Lee Jennings, Co-Chair Bill Lucas, Carolyn Miller, Billy Orton, Dottie Richardson

Reunion Choir Committee Pat Lewallen and Billy Orton, co-chairs,

Elaine Dickson , Christy Eldridge, Sheila Smock

Orchestra Council (Saturday Dinner Plan Details) Bruce Zeiger, Alan Jones, Emily DePlachett,

Kevin Insley

Orchestra Logistics: Bob Sentell, Ben Bragg, Vince Dauro, Leigh Anne Dauro, Mike Kirk, Ken Smith Danny Hallman, Robert Jones, Alan Jones, Kevin Insley, Richard Toomey

Youth Choir Sponsors: Karen Anderson, Kelli Ellison, Greg Ellison, LeAnne Fowler, Stuart Fowler, Suzanne Hefner, Amy McKenzie, Suzanne Norris, Wayne Owen, Janice Owen, Anne Reasons, Phillip Roberts, Laura Roberts, Randy Taylor, Kristi Taylor

Videographers/Photographers for Reunion Events, Saturday Night Dinner, etc.

Debbie McDaniel, Nathan Alderson, Dru Murphree, Steve Jones, Bob Saint

Music Librarians Nancy Morton, Janet Creech

Audio help with the Reunion Choir rehearsals: Jack Lucas

Sanctuary Aesthetics & Lots of Other Stuff (Display of names, etc.) Glenn Brown

Commemorative Gifts Scott Boothe, Toni Morgan, Becky Caneer, Darrell Eldridge, Randall Belk, Michael Boothe, Gary Willoughy, Jennifer Willoughy, Evan Willoughy, Olivia Willoughy, Dana Kitchin, Becky Caneer, Caroline Caneer, Hallie Caneer, Brian Leffel, Bethany McDaniel

Celebration Quilt Committee Glenn Brown: Designer of Quilt Janis Warman: Chairperson of Quilt Committee Joyce Freisen, Ann Bailey, Sara Stokes, Janice Allison, Hallie McDavid, Linda Nowlin, Mary Ann Prince, Hannah Alderson, Libby Whisenant, Pat Williams, Deborah Mason, Kay Bugg, Beth Hoffman, Denise Carter, Ann Clinton, Carelese Hinton, Mary Reeder, Amy Walker

Quilters Mary Adams, Janice Allison, Jennifer Averett, Doyle and Doyce Bailey, Doris Bentley, Ginger Bishop, JoAnn Blue, Ethel Bush, Reva Carrin, Robin Chambers, Jo Colvin, Essie Coppock, Ben Darby, Martha Edfelt, Joyce Freisen, Ann Gravlee, Nancy Harrison, Myra Haythorn, Frances Jones, Elaine Leffel, Toni Morgan, Libby Peery, Mary Reeder, EC Richardson, Evelyn Rutland, Bonnie Tondera, Janis Warman, Lenora E. Weakley and her daughter Libby Whisenant, Elizabeth Whitten, Janet Williams, Pat Williams, Joyce Freisen who collected and hung quilts, Janis Warman who returned and hung quilts, Pat Williams who hung quilts.

Bicentennial Banquet Soloists Emily Hull, Billy Orton and Elizabeth Hostetter

Homecoming Banquet Special Thanks The Von Braun Center Staff, Colonial Printing, Glenn’s Florists, Sydney Toups, Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

Bicentennial Cake Dathern and R.D. Moon

Bicentennial Dinner Childcare Joy Moore, Angela Seanor, Karen Knight (JWBC), Glinda Jackson (WEE), Dee Dee Patty, Kristi Southerland (WEE), Lynn Earnest JWBC), Crystal White (WEE), DeLeash Williams (WEE), Penny Jones (WEE), Jennifer Earnest (JWBC), Brooklyn Patty, Jackie Pride, Carolyn Nalls, Carol Putman (JWBC), J.D. Thorne (JWBC), Corrie Thorne (JWBC), Cameron McDaniel, Amanda Ryburn (WEE), Lisa Smith (JWBC), Scott Smith (JWBC), Michele Patrick, Michelle Mendes (JWBC), Rachel Taylor WEE– FBC Weekday Early Education JWBC– Jackson Way Baptist Church All others from FBC

Church Family Album Pictures Allen Godwin, Jim Harrison

Food for Saturday Set-Up Crews Carolyn Miller, Nancy Harrison

Bicentennial Banquet Seaters and Greeters Elaine and John Dickson, Jeremy Dickson, Chris Dickson, Patrick Dickson, Hope and Jamie Mackey, Jean and Mark Rasco, Joanna and Bill May, Jan and Mark Thornton

Bicentennial Dinner Two Hundred Lights Cochairs: Anne and Bill Stone, Terry & Sherry Jarnigin, Hayley and Sarah Jarnagin, Brittany Tallent-Smith

Bicentennial Dinner Committee Beth Bice, Scott Boothe, Glenn Brown, Elaine Dickson, John Dickson, Co-Chair: Joan Dowdle, Joyce Friesen, David Hull, Chair: Dana Lee Jennings, Evelyn Lucas, Betty Lunsford, Joe Lunsford, Bill Lunsford, Ingrid Lunsford, Hope Mackey, Jamie Mackey, Kim Mims, Billy Orton, Gordon Perry, Dottie Richardson, Laura Roberts, Bobby Saint, Cherry Saint, Anne Stone, Bill Stone, Janis Warman

Bicentennial Dinner Table Decorators Beth Bice, Kim Mims co-chairs, Escoe Beatty, Glenn Brown, Linda Causey, Carla Cobb, Robin Chambers, Charlotte Davis, Melinda Holloway, Becky Lambert, Jan Mann, Kathy Nelson, Noel Saunders, Susan Wessinger

Bicentennial Dinner Program Laura Roberts, Billy Orton, Anne Stone, Bill Lucas

Bicentennial Dinner Podium Flowers Evelyn Lucas

Bicentennial Dinner Orchestra Tom Bahder, Lisa Belk, Kristen Bethlenfalvay, Ben Bragg, Amy Brown, Briana Carrasquillo, Jana Clark, Ben Darby, Alisa Dauro, Leighanne Dauro, Vince Dauro, Emily DePlachett, Ellen Field, Susan Field, Joyce Green, Danny Hallman, Amy Helser, David Hoppe, Lea Hoppe, Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen, Noah Hoppe-McQueen, Elizabeth Hostetter, Dale Hutchens, Midori Inoue, Kevin Insley, Alan Jones, Joel Keene, Susan Keene, Johnny Kirk, Nan Kirk, Mike Kirk, Amelia Lane, Katherine Martin, Katie Necaise, Jane Orton, Dale Proctor, EC Richardson, Jim Rogers, Robert Sentell, Ken Smith, Werner Smock, Richard Toomey, Caroline Wang, Robert Williams, Suzy Young, Bruce Zeiger

Many thanks to our Ministerial Staff, Office Staff, Kitchen Staff & Custodial Staff for making this weekend possible!




Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Brett Ables 5017 Adams Ave Adamsville AL 35005-1210 Sara Ashby 10 Lori Ln Fayetteville TN 37334-4825 Catherine Ladd 2019 Flagstone Dr Apt 1408 Madison AL 35758-2962 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Yvonne Taylor in the loss of her grandson, Jason Taylor

Thanks A thank you note has been received from Rosie Byrd. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

SCHOOL BACKPACKS FOR COUNCILL COURT

Please remember that July 5th is the start date for collecting supplies. There will be collection containers located in the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall. A list of needed supplies will be on the web site, in your Sunday School Department boxes, and at the Welcome Centers. Cash donations are always welcome. Please begin thinking now how as an individual, a family, and a Sunday School Department you want to participate in this mission project for the final time. If you have questions or comments, please call or email Debbie Howard at 256-882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you in advance for your participation.

October 30, 2008


Former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, told this story at an August 4, 2002, Sunday School class at National Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C.:

Although I never doubted the existence of God, I think like all people I've had some ups and downs in my faith. When I first moved to California in 1981 to join the faculty at Stanford, there were a lot of years when I was not attending church regularly…. I was a specialist in international politics, so I was always traveling abroad…. [One] Sunday morning, I went to Menlo Park Presbyterian Church [in Palo Alto]. The minister that Sunday morning gave a sermon I will never quite forget. It was about the Prodigal Son from the point of view of the elder son. It set the elder son up not as somebody who had done all the right things but as somebody who had become so self-satisfied; a parable about self-satisfaction, and content and complacency in faith [and] that people who didn't somehow expect themselves to need to be born again can be complacent. I started to think of myself as that elder son who had never doubted the existence of God but wasn't really walking in faith in an active way anymore. I started to become more active with the church, to go to Bible study and to have a more active prayer life. It was a very important turning point in my life. (quoted in “Walking in Faith” in the Washington Times, 8-2-02)

Condoleezza Rice had a turning point in her life when she considered again the story of the elder son in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. This Sunday we will be talking about this part of the story. Perhaps there is a lesson that you can learn from the elder son. I hope that you will join us as we listen to the story and learn together.

Sunday, July 5

Sermon: “Family Matters: The Elder Brother”

Luke 15:11-32

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by Amanda Allen and Family


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthems:

He Knows My Name –Walker Christ Go Before You –Banks

Solo by Sarah Taylor

No Evening Service or Activities

December 18, 2008 July 2, 2009

DEACON NOMINATIONS AND ELECTION

The 2009 FBC Deacon election will be Sunday, September 20. Nominations begin this Sunday, July 5, and end August 16. The nominating forms, which require a signature of the person making the nomination, are available in the Church Office, through Sunday School classes, and on the FBC web site, www.fbchsv.org. As you think of the person you would like to nomi-nate, ask yourself if the person demonstrates: · Spiritual growth · A Christian family life · Personal and public morality · A life accepted by God and the Church It is suggested that you contact the individual you are nominating to confirm their willingness to con-sider serving as a deacon.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, July 5 First Fellowship/Baptism/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM NO EVENING SERVICE Monday, July 6 Music Camp Begins Deacons/118 6:00 PM Tuesday, July 7 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scout Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM

Wednesday, July 8 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Mtg/FH 5:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Missions Comm/242C 7:00 PM

Thursday, July 9 Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, July 10 Music Camp Workers’ Mtg/Parlor 1:30 PM

Saturday, July 11

MUSIC CAMP Next Week July 6-10 Call the

Music Ministry Office to register,

428-9421, or go to www.fbchsv.org.

Memorial for Aileen Halcomb

In memory of Aileen Halcomb, long-time and much-loved member and employee of First Baptist Church, the current FBC

staff donated funds to purchase a suitable tribute to her.

Knowing of Aileen’s love for children and story telling, and also her love of “everything pink,” the staff planted a pink dogwood tree and purchased a stone bench and two stone statues of children appearing

to be listening to a story. These have been placed in the garden area on the east side of our building.

On June 16, 2009, a dedication ceremony was held with Aileen’s

family and friends, and FBC staff attending. The picture above is of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren,

and sister.

Aileen’s life reflected her devotion to her Lord, her church, her family, and her friends. She did, indeed, leave many wonderful

footprints along the way.

FIRST BAPTIST HISTORY BOOK

The new First Baptist history book can be purchased for $20.00 at the First Baptist Church Office. By mail they can be purchased for $25.00. Contact

First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35801 or e-mail:

[email protected] or phone (256) 428-9400


SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, July 24th at the CLC. There will be 3 sessions on this date: from 8:30am—2pm, from 2pm—5pm, and from 5pm—10pm. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected].

Holiday Closings The Christian Life Center will be closed on

Friday, July 3rd and Saturday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day.

FYI

Menu Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Chicken Pot Pie Layered Salad

Cranberry Congealed Salad Roll

Peach Cobbler





This Week $48,655.31 YTD $3,137,406.32



Sunday School Preschool 77 Children 109 Students 81 Adults 606 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 20 New Members 3 Visitors 34 TOTAL 930


Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from Ralph and Martha Edfeldt, and Joy and Michael Moore. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Caribbean Medical Mission Project

Thanksgiving Week, November 21-28, 2009

This project is now available for registration. Contact Laura at Dr. Jerry Graham’s office for more information at 256-461-7482.


‘TWAS THE DAY AFTER BIBLE SCHOOL”

‘Twas the day after Bible School and all over town, With a sigh of relief, we all settled down.

Out to the golf course goes Dad In his cap, And home in the bedroom Mom’s taking a nap.

Gone Linda, gone Brenda, gone David and Johnny, Gone Margie, and Mary, and Ronnie and Donnie. Gone stories, and puppets, and songs in the air,

Gone paint under fingernails and paste in the hair. Rest sweetly, dear workers, and wake with good cheer,

For Bible School won’t come again for a year. As they drifted off, I heard them exclaim:

“It was worth all the hard work and we’d do it again!”

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, July 17

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Program: Origins of Jihad

Speaker: John Reitzell Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107,

for reservations.


Gordon Perry Written by Jim Atherton

Gordon Perry is my long-time friend and spiritual mentor. He is a tireless worker and a true servant for the Lord. Difficult assignments seek out Gordon and he invariably says yes. He has served in numerous high profile jobs and many more completely out of the limelight. Gordon has served the church in numerous jobs such as Deacon, Deacon Chairman, Sunday School Department Director and Teacher in numerous departments, Trustee, Finance Committee, Pastor Search Committee, and current member of the major church renovation planning committee. Gordon is particularly gifted in organizing and managing construction projects. He served as the daily church contact during the major renovation of the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall. He organized and leads a group called “Baptist Men” that is com-prised of FBC men (both voluntary and “involuntary”) who do construction at the church and within the community. These projects include the ongoing renovation of Lincoln Mill Village, plus many renovations and modifications involving FBC Sunday School rooms and offices. Other projects include the Huntsville World Changers Pro-ject, a year-long effort involving the Sanctuary of Brownsboro Baptist Church, a yearly project in Perry County Alabama renovating sub-standard housing, and numerous other tasks both large and small. To each task he brings one outstanding characteristic – a humble spirit. He is truly a man after God’s own heart and I’m privileged to call him my friend.

Syble Noblin Written by Patty Atherton

First Baptist Church is a wonderful place to worship and a place that has given us hours of fun and fellowship around the tables as we have enjoyed meals pre-pared by our Church Hostesses and their staff. We have been blessed with outstanding Church Hostesses through the years and I would be remiss not to mention each one. Ladies like Inez Blackwell from whom I continue to learn techniques for baking cakes. Alma Tidwell and her delicious yeast rolls made fresh for every meal. When asked for the secret of her rolls she said “start with White Lily Flour.” Leslie Mayhall served the church for many years and she was faithful to the task. Charlotte Davis was a joy to see in the kitchen as she worked with energy and style. Syble Noblin has continued the tradition of dedicated service and I find her to be a joy to work with for special events. She is always cooperative, excited about the event, and determined to see that every detail is completed to your specifica-tions. I appreciate her gracious manner and expertise. Many times Syble has gone the extra mile by coming in early to start cooking for breakfast functions that had to be ready by 7a.m. She has also brought her own dishes and silver from home to in-sure the table was correctly appointed for a special occasion. I am grateful to God for Syble Noblin and we are blessed to have a church hostess with a heart for serving others.

TESTIMONIES (CONTINUED)

Grady B. Gatlin Written by Anne Stone

Grady Gatlin loved First Baptist Church; he loved Huntsville; he loved being a part of this community, and he loved being our Father’s son. Mr. Gatlin was a businessman by career – and such a good one that even into his 8th decade and working only part time, he outsold every other salesman in the Men’s Department at Dunnavant’s Department Store. He loved being with people – he worked it, kept in touch, knew how to relate. Even though Mr. Gatlin sold men’s clothes, for years he taught a ladies’ Sunday School class at FBC. In fact, he taught the oldest ladies’ class. Because I was privi-leged to call him my “Uncle Grady,” my Mother’s brother often invited me to partici-pate in the monthly class meetings for his SS class members. What good times we all had as the ladies reminisced about their lives, their families, and their times in fellowship at church. By the time they were in Uncle Grady’s class, their families were scattered. Many were widowed; children and grandchildren not nearby. That class was family to them with Uncle Grady enjoying it right along with them. These “church friends” had become a real family. I was so proud to be Uncle Grady’s niece – he knew what a church could be and what joy it could bring when we are part of the Family of God. We stand tall on his shoulders.

Agnes Gatlin Written by Anne Stone

Agnes Gatlin was 102 years old on December 12, 2008. She now lives in Anda-lusia, Alabama but for most of her life, she lived on Locust St. in Huntsville. Since she was married to my mother’s brother until his early death, I call her Aunt Agnes. Aunt Agnes retired as head of the Madison County Health Department’s lab – an un-usual position for a woman of her times. Aunt Agnes also taught a ladies’ Sunday School class at FBC for many years and continued to do that at her little Methodist church in Andalusia ‘til her late 90’s. Each morning she still rises about dawn to spend her time in God’s Word. Ladies at FBC still tell me how much they enjoyed being in Aunt Agnes’ class and just knowing her. She remains a quiet woman of strength, faith, courage, and generosity. Her faith is well grounded and proven beyond any doubt. She is part of the sturdy foundation of First Baptist.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 26, July 2, 2009


Beginning Today Beginning today, I will no longer worry about yesterday.

It is in the past and the past will never change. Only I can change by choosing to do so.

Beginning today, I will no longer worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will always be there, waiting for me

to make the most of it. But I cannot make the most of tomorrow without first making the most of today.

Beginning today, I will look in the mirror and I will see a person worthy of my respect and admiration.

This capable person looking back at me is someone I enjoy spending time with and someone I would like to get to know better.

Beginning today, I will cherish each moment of my life. I value this gift bestowed upon me in this world and I will unselfishly share

this gift with others. I will use this gift to enhance the lives of others.

Beginning today, I will take a moment to step off the beaten path and to revel in the mysteries I encounter.

I will face challenges with courage and determination. I will overcome what barriers there may be which hinder my quest for growth

and self-improvement. Beginning today, I will take life one day at a time, one step at a time.

Discouragement will not be allowed to taint my positive self-image, my desire to succeed or my capacity to love.

Beginning today, I walk with renewed faith in human kindness. Regardless of what has gone before, I believe there is hope for a brighter

and better future. Beginning today, I will open my mind and my heart.

I will welcome new experiences. I will meet new people. I will not expect perfection from myself nor anyone else: perfection does not

exist in an imperfect world. But I will applaud the attempt to overcome human foibles.

Beginning today, I am responsible for my own happiness and I will do things that make me happy . . .

admire the beautiful wonders of nature, listen to my favorite music, pet a kitten or a puppy, soak in a bubble bath . . .

Pleasure can be found in the most simple of gestures. Beginning today, I will learn something new; I will try something different; I

will savor all the various flavors life has to offer. I will change what I can and the rest I will let go.

I will strive to become the best me I can possibly be. Beginning today. And every day.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Logan Blake 107 Bridge Arbor Ln Huntsville AL 35811-9761 Blake Shelton 2634 Quarter Ln SE Hampton Cove AL 35763-8677 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member William Groves, especially to his wife, Sue Groves Family and friends of our member, Dennis Holmes Mary Johnson and Merle Tumminello in the loss of their cousin, Anna Waldrop

Backpacks for Councill Court

Students Beginning July 5th, school supplies needed for Councill Court and Harris Home will be collected. We need your donations in order to help the children have a successful start to a new school year. Please consider participating individually, as families and as Sunday School departments and classes. Monetary donations are welcome. Supply lists are provided in your Sunday School boxes, online and at the Welcome Centers. There will be collection containers located in the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall. The end date for collecting supplies is Sunday, July 26th. If you have any questions, contact Debbie Howard at 882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you for your participation.

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Each year our family makes a pilgrimage to the beach. We really are very predictable. (The great exception to this rule was our sabbatical trip last summer.) Two weeks at Garden City, South Carolina seems to renew energy and restore us for the coming church year. We rest, read, take in

the surf and sun, and of course eat all the good seafood that we can. This year the thought of rest sounds especially inviting. In my absence the following schedule has been designed for worship leadership:

Sunday morning, July 12 Ralph Langley, our Pastor Emeritus, will be preaching

in both worship services.

Sunday night, July 12 Presentation by our Children’s Music Camp

Wednesday night, July 15

Pam McDaniel, Minister to Young and Median Adults, will be teaching.

Sunday Morning, July 19

Jud Reasons, our Associate Pastor, will be preaching in both worship services.

Sunday Night, July 19

Rebecca Orton, Minister to Children at Parkway Baptist Church, Atlanta, (and recent graduate of McAfee School of Theology)

will be preaching.

Wednesday night, July 22 Mark Seanor, Minister to Experienced Adults, will be teaching

I look forward to seeing you again on July 26. You will be in our thoughts and prayers as we are away. Enjoy the wonderful speakers that you will hear in my absence. I know they will be a blessing to you.

Sunday, July 12 Dr. Ralph Langley,

Pastor Emeritus, Preaching “Don’t Go to Sleep in Church!!”



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music by

Sanctuary Choir and Music Camp Children Guest Soloist Laura Rice Christy

Children’s Music Camp Presentations 5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary

December 18, 2008 July 9, 2009

WOMEN’S RETREAT

September 25-27, 2009 Doublehead Resort, Town Creek, Alabama

Reservation deadline: August 7 It will be here quicker than you think!

Call the Adult Ministries Office, 428-9403.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, July 12 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Centri Kid/Parent-Campers/241 4:00 PM Music Camp Presentation/Sanct 5:00 PM Student Summer Nights/Off-site 6:00 PM

Monday, July 13

Tuesday, July 14 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM HAP Brd Mtg/241 6:30 PM

Wednesday, July 15 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Prayer Mtg/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra Reh/141,Sanct 6:00 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, July 16 Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Mommy Time/Parlor 6:00 PM

Friday, July 17 Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Men’s Retreat/Off Site 4:00 PM

Saturday, July 18 Men’s Retreat/Off-Site 9:00 AM

Deacon Nominations Currently Being Accepted

Nominations for Deacons will be accepted through August 16. Nomination forms are available in Sunday School rooms, the Church office and on the Church website (www.fbchsv.org). In considering who to nominate, refer to the Biblical teachings related to the office of Deacon found in I Timothy 3:8-13, Acts 6:1-7, and Romans 16. Pray not only for names of persons to nominate, but also about your own willingness to serve God and your Church as an FBC deacon.

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Many thanks to all those who, by their faithful presence and sharing of talents and energies, help the music ministries at FBC to continue in vital fashion during these summer months! Music Ministry Dates to Note— July 12, 5 :00 pm Music Camp final presentations July 27, 10:30 am Hallelujah Choir resumes regular Monday rehearsals Week of August 16 Children’s and Youth Choirs begin regular rehearsals September 9, 7 pm Living Christmas Tree kickoff And, on the horizon— Additional “MasterClasses” from the FBC Music Ministry Our annual Hymn Festival is very special this year—

“What Were We SINGING!?” A Bicentennial Hymn Festival October 18, 5 pm

A Window on Worship A series of occasional articles One of the finest texts in contemporary hymnody has come from the pen of Fred Pratt Green. It speaks to our expression through song in worship. Here are several of his stanzas. Use them in reflection upon your own approach to the worship of God: When in our music God is glorified, And adoration leaves no room for pride, It is as though the whole creation cried Alleluia! Alleluia! How often, making music, we have found a new dimension in the world of sound, As worship moved us to a more profound Alleluia! Alleluia! And did not Jesus sing a psalm that night when utmost evil strove against the light? Then let us sing, for whom He won the fight: Alleluia! Alleluia! Let every instrument be tuned for praise! Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise! And may God give us faith to sing always Alleluia! Alleluia! Billy Orton Minister of Music and Worship


FYI

Menu Wednesday, July 15

BBQ Pork

Green Beans Potato Salad

Coconut Cake



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 39 - July 5, 2009


This Week $103,630.01 YTD $3,241,036.33


ATTENDANCE - JULY 5, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services


Pray for Hungary Mission Trip: • Prayer Cards available outside Student

Ministry office. • 24-Hour Trip Prayer Grid on the bulletin board

outside the Student Ministry office. We are ask-ing people to take one hour or more while we are on the mission trip to pray for the trip.

Trip Itineraries are available at www.fbchsv.org or

outside the Student Ministry Office to aid your prayer time for the mission trip.

July 12—Broom Ball Summer Sunday Night Fellowship—cost: $10

August 2—Canoeing the Elk River—cost: $20 Sign up by July 19.

THANK YOU First Baptist for all the support you have given to the Hungary Mission Trip. Plan now to attend the Hungary Trip Report on Sunday, August 9, at 5:00 PM.

We welcome new 7th graders! Family Picnic—6:00 PM on FBC Grass

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Available for sale: Music CD’s $5.00 Music DVD’s $20.00 See Cindy Thompson in the Childhood Ministries Office or call 428-9411.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR SERVICE Have you thought about where your footprints will lead and who will follow in them? If you are seeking a place to make a difference, why not call the Childhood Ministries Office, 428-9411, and talk to us about where you can serve in Preschool and Children’s Ministries in the year ahead. We are currently putting together our Sunday School Staffs for next year and would love to talk to you about a place for your feet (and heart) to lead!

PRESCHOOL WORKDAY In preparation for our new Sunday School year, the Preschool Ministries (Sunday School, Weekday, Childcare, Music and Missions) will have a workday on August 8 from 8 – noon. This will give teachers the opportunity to clean out old supplies; meet those with whom you share rooms and storage space; do some real cleaning of tables, chairs, cabinets, etc.; and make plans for the upcoming year with the children you will be teaching. Watch for more information to come!


Aileen Halcomb

Written by Mary White

My dad taught me “Live the kind of life, that when a person speaks your name, good thoughts follow.” Certainly, that is the case when the name, Aileen Halcomb, is spoken. Words such as kindness, great Christian, loving, joyful, honorable, and true friend come to my mind when I hear her name. Aileen was a wonderful influence in my life. I am a better person and a better Christian because of her. I am thankful to Jesus Christ that He planted her in my life when I came to First Baptist Church in l968. I loved her dearly.

Written by Khris Chess

In 250 words, I can only list a handful of individuals at FBC who’ve made a difference in my life: · God, who showed up when I prayed for help, and who then introduced me to His Son using people like you.

· Susan Williams, who loaned me “The Case for Christ” after I told her, “I don’t think I’m an atheist anymore,” and who then invited me for the “40 Days of Purpose” campaign at FBC a few weeks later.

· Susan’s parents, Wallace and Rubye Weaver, who welcomed me into their balcony pew like one of their own children.

· Dr. Hull, whose message on September 21, 2003, was about heaven.

· Greg Parker, teacher of the Community Class, who seemed so nice that I e-mailed him questions about things like aliens and dinosaurs, and he never laughed.

· My 40-Days small group: Alan Jones, Greg and Pam McDaniel, Glenn and Terri Brown, Amy Kearney, Robert and Susan Williams, and Scott and Susan Field. When I made a profession of faith that November, many joined me at the front.

· Lauren Anderson, Amanda Anderson, Thomas Lewallen, and Patrick O’Dell, who bravely stood barefoot with me outside the baptistery on November 30, 2002 and offered encouragement.

· Howard Culpepper, who loaned several books to me through Susan, though we didn’t meet face-to-face for many months.

· Patty Atherton, Ingrid Lunsford, and all the dear women in the Ladies' Sunday School class who continue to teach me about Christian love.


Mrs. Charles B. (Floy) Rawls Written by Sylvia Bailey

When I first came to FBC in 1963, Mrs. C.B Rawls’ name was on everything related to Preschool: teacher, director, committee leader, study course participant, trainer for new volunteers etc. But in 1967, a new ministry of the Madison Baptist Association (MBA) was in its formative stage. They asked Floy Rawls, a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, to establish English Classes for internationals living in the area. She was already trained in the teaching of Adult Reading and Writing but this was another area of literacy missions that the Home Mission Board of the Southern Bap-tist Convention (SBC) had developed. Floy went to the Southern Baptist Seminary for a workshop to take training in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL). Soon she became known not only for her expertise in Preschool work but also for her work in literacy missions.

In February 1968 Floy Rawls became the founding director and teacher trainer for the English Classes at FBC. These classes meet on Thursday 9-11 AM and during the first three years met year around. Since then the classes have essentially followed the calendar of the Huntsville City Schools. Over 6,000 students from over 100 coun-tries have attended the classes.

Floy Rawls was recognized for her leadership with many awards and honors. Some of them are:

1983 - 1st Recipient of the MBA Floy Rawls Award for Volunteer Service

1990 - Human Rights Award from the United Nations presented by Huntsville and Madison County

1990 - Mildred Blankenship Award from the North American Mission Board of SBC

1992 - Cross of Merit, the highest civilian award from the Republic of Germany

I traveled with Floy to attend conferences and take workshops. I also helped her and Sara Cherry in conducting local workshops for volunteer teachers. As we traveled, Floy would inquire about my plans to continue teaching and/or succeeding her as the director. I told her that I was prayerfully considering going back to public school teaching. Closer to the time of her retirement, with a twinkle of her eyes, she said “My prayers are canceling out your prayers.” I guess they did.

She served as the director for 27 years ( 1968-1995). I taught for 26 years and served as the director for 13 years ( 1995-2008). Tina Darby and Tara Dubose-Schmitt are now co directors and doing a marvelous job continuing what Floy Rawls began over 40 years ago.

Thank you, Floy Rawls, for blessing my life and so many others, especially our friends around the world. Only Heaven knows the extent of her influence as she lived out the scripture to “welcome the stranger among us.” (Hebrews 13:2). She moved to Temple, Texas in 1996 and died there in November 2006.




FORUM is a Young Adult Bible Study Fellowship Group that meets weekly at FBC. This summer, Forum is living out their Christian faith by serving others. Plans for the remaining weeks include: Thursday, July 16 6:00 – Meet for supper; prepare medical kits for Africa missions

Thursday, July 23 6:00 – Meet for supper; sort school supplies and pack backpacks to be given to children whose families live in Councill Court Tuesday, July 28 6:00 – Picnic and build a wheelchair ramp Tuesday, Aug. 4 5:30 – Meet at the CLC; distribute backpacks with school supplies to Councill Court families

Bible study…Prayer…Fellowship…Food…Fun…Service Young Adults – 20s, 30s, young at heart – are invited to be a part of FORUM. For

more information, contact Pam McDaniel (428-9414; [email protected]). We would love to have you join the group!

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, July 17

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Program: Origins of Jihad

Speaker: John Reitzell Call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107,

for reservations.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Hayley Jarnagin 319 Cedar Trail Ln Harvest AL 35749-9659 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Essie Fanette in the loss of her sister, Lois & Marcus Rhodes in the loss of her aunt, and Shannon Jordan and Alex Wilson in the loss of their great-aunt, Milla Matthews Kelley & Jeff Gattis in the loss of her grandmother and Elizabeth, Conor, and Jake Gattis in the loss of their great-grandmother, Lillian Glover OUR NEWEST

Eileen Lee Sheehy, daughter of Megan and Sean Sheehy, 237 Misty Cove Court, New Market, Alabama 35761, born July 3, 2009.

BACKPACKS FOR COUNCILL COURT AND HARRIS HOME

School supplies for Councill Court and Harris Home are now being collected. Our goal is to help the students have a successful start to the school year. Supply lists are provided in your Sunday School boxes, online and at the Welcome Centers. Collection containers are located in the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall. Contributions can be made as individuals, as families and as Sunday School departments and classes. Monetary donations are welcome. Remember that the end date for collecting supplies is July 26. If you have any questions, contact Debbie Howard at 882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you for your participation.

October 30, 2008

On Second Thought

From the desk of Jud Reasons

Associate Pastor As you read this article, thirty of our students and their chaperones led by

our Minister to Students, Jamie Mackey, are on a mission trip to Pecs, Hungary. As we commissioned them this past Sunday, we committed to pray for them while they are away from us. I hope you will give some time each day to pray for our youth mission team. They go to work with CBF Missionaries Glenn and Clista Adkins who are serving at the Ghandi School in Pecs. Pray for their witness, their safety and their health. You can follow their mission journey through words and pictures at their blog, www.fbchsv2hungary.blogspot.com. They will return from Hungary Sunday evening, July 26, and will share a report with us on Sunday evening, August 9. Another group from our church leaves this coming Monday. At 6 a.m. that morning, busses in our parking lot will begin to fill with 60 Fourth through Sixth Grade children and their chaperones leaving for CentriKid Camp at Toccoa Falls, Georgia. They are led by our Minister to Children, Cindy Russell. Weeks at camp can be life-changing weeks for our children….I encourage you to commit this group to prayer as well. They will return Friday, July 24. Summer gives many of us the opportunity to break away from our routine and find rest and renewal. My family and I just returned from vacation that provided us with a great time of rest, renewal and also many wonderful memories as a family. With our pastor now away for a few days of rest and renewal, I look forward to preaching in both morning worship services this Sunday. Sunday evening, Rebecca Kearney Orton will be preaching. I look forward to see you this Sunday! Jud

Sunday, July 19

Jud Reasons, Preaching “Lessons from the Sea”

Matthew 14:22-33



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Duet by Becky Foshee and Jane Orton

Music from the FBC Saxophone Ensemble Sanctuary Choir Anthem:

“Lord, I Want to Be a Christian” - -Riddles

Evening Worship in the Chapel 5:00 p.m.

Rebecca Orton, Minister to Children at Parkway Baptist Church, Atlanta,

(and recent graduate of McAfee School of Theology) will be preaching.

December 18, 2008 July 16, 2009

Deacon Nominations Currently Being Accepted

Nominations for Deacons will be accepted through August 16. Nomination forms are available in Sunday School rooms, the Church office and on the Church website (www.fbchsv.org). In considering who to nominate, refer to the Biblical teachings related to the office of Deacon found in I Timothy 3:8-13, Acts 6:1-7, and Romans 16. Pray not only for names of persons to nominate, but also about your own willingness to serve God and your Church as an FBC deacon.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, July 19 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Boy Scout Comm/342 4:00 PM Worship/Chapel 5:00 PM

Monday, July 20

Tuesday, July 21 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM

Wednesday, July 22 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Prayer Mtg/FH 5:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM

Thursday, July 23 Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, July 24

Saturday, July 25 Gideons’ Ldrship Team/ 9:00-11:30 AM 241,242

SCHOOL BACKPACK COLLECTIONS

As the collection of backpack supplies continues, how have you decided to be involved? Are you participating as a family, individual or as a Sunday School class? Please consider today how you can help. Supply lists are located at the Welcome Centers, in Sunday School boxes and on the church website. Monetary donations are welcome and on July 19 and 26 there will be people located at the Welcome Centers to accept them. After First Fellowship, donations will be accepted at the Welcome Center in the Fellowship Hall. After Sunday School and after the 10:30 service, donations will be accepted at the East Entrance Welcome Center. Remember that the end date for collecting supplies is July 26. If you have any questions, contact Debbie Howard at 882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you for your participation.

Music Camp 2009 was wonderful! ~ Foundations laid for a lifetime of worship ~ Relationships fostered between children, youth and adults ~ Great devotional and spiritual experiences ~ Considerable outreach on the part of the church ~ Musical “highs” ~ Lots of fun!! Three Camps in one— KinderCamp led by Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen Younger Camp led by Amanda Allen Older Camp led by Lea Hoppe Great faculty and staff— Susan Keene, Joy Moore, Janet Crawford, Polly Crawford, Mary Ella Sharpe, Dana Mucci, Susan Wessinger, Jennifer Willoughby, Alana Allen, Josh Coble, Sally Martin, Emily Hoppe, Noah Hoppe-McQueen, Barbara Sizemore, Suzanne Hefner, Billy Orton, Laura Roberts, Elizabeth Hostetter, Lee Deutschendorf, Terry Lonergan, Amy Kearney, Nancy Campbell, Mkyoung VanBuren, Jack Lucas, Steve Jones, Lee Sims, Syble Noblin Robert Boothe, Phillip Garrison, Michael Kearney, Sarah Leffel, Michela Marlow, Patrick McDaniel, Julia Perry, Rachel Perry, Sarah Sizemore, Emily Van Buren, Erin Whetzel, Kayla Wilson, Amanda Anderson, Ashley Belk, Caroline Caneer, Jennifer Cox, Emma Ennis, Michael Hoffman, Sarah Jarnagin, Caroline Johnson, Alexandra Martin, Melissa Russell, Ben Vaughn, David Vorreyer, Erin Westbrook, Auseel Yousefi, Hallie Caneer, Juliana Carter, Catherine Cox, Claire Crenshaw, Kate Lewallen, Bethany McDaniel, Oliver Norris, Maggie Sisco, Brittany Tallent-Smith, Rachel Taylor, Sarah Taylor, Rebecca VanderVeer, Garrett Ellison, Stephanie Gonzales, Joel Keene, Cameron McDaniel, Robert Moser, Christian Ngata, Patrick O’Dell, Adam Thompson, Alex Wilson Musical Presentations— God Colors My World Heroes of the Bible Rescue in the Night

THANK YOU TO ALL!


SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, July 24th at the CLC. There will be three sessions on this date: from 8:30am—2pm, from 2pm—5pm, and from 5pm—10pm. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI

Menu Wednesday, July 22 Beef Tips over Rice

Green Peas Pistachio Salad

Roll Dessert

Salad



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 41 - July 12, 2009


This Week $63,046.41 YTD $3,304,082.74


ATTENDANCE

Sunday School



Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from Brittany Riddle (recipient of the Ralph Langley Preaching Scholarship, Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond), Charles D. Powell, Eva and John Geiger, Nancy Morton, and Jane Davis. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

The CLC Gym will be closed for cleaning of the ceiling area from July 27-31. There will be

no activities in the Gym, Weight Rooms, Racquetball Courts, or Walking Track during this time.

The Patio Room, Game Room, and

Offices will remain open.

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children Q & A: The Persistent Child By Dennis and Barbara Rainey; www.familylife.com Q: When my child makes a request and I give him an answer he doesn't like, he keeps coming back and making the same request over and over and over again. How should I handle this problem? Dennis: Someone has said that nagging is like being nibbled to death by a duck. This is the duck that gets you right here—the persistent child. Persistence is really a good charac-ter trait, but it does have a downside. Look at it like this. This child may be the next Billy Graham. This child may be the next mis-sionary whom God uses to win people in foreign countries to Christ because he perseveres and comes back over and over and over again! Often a weakness is a strength that is taken to an extreme. Of course, this is no comfort right now for a mom who bears the brunt of this "nibbling" per-severance. I know I made my own mother suffer—I hounded her to death, pestering her, wearing her down. A child can see when his mother starts to weaken, and then he keeps piling on the pressure. Barbara: I think you need to find out what your limit is. I think you need to decide on what issues you are going to draw the line. On this issue, you need to make it clear to the child what consequences he will face if he repeats a request for which he already has received an answer. For example, you could say, "When you ask me if you can spend the night with a friend and I say 'no,' that's my final word. If you come ask me again, you are going to be grounded." Then, when this happens, you need to follow through and discipline the child as you promised. Otherwise your child will learn that you are the type of parent who threatens punishment but doesn't carry it out. He'll take advantage of this and find a way to get what he wants. Dennis: Barbara's dad once gave me a sign after traveling eight hours in a car with our family on a trip. It reads, "Exactly what part of the word NO do you not understand?" He felt like I needed to say “no” and draw boundaries and not keep listening to the kids as they nagged and complained. I hung the sign on a lamp at home. My kids didn't like it. I'm amazed that they didn't toss it in the trash can. Barbara's advice is very sound—kids need to hear ahead of time what will happen if they come back over and over again with the same request or question. Now this may sound harsh, but it's all about developing character in our children. We used this technique a lot because we had many strong-willed kids in our family.


“Miss Marian” Written by David E.Harbarger

My Aunt Marian Phillips Harreld, has taught Sunday School at First Baptist Church Huntsville for 66 years (without a break in the years). She is now 94 years old and would still be teaching three-year–olds if she was physically able.

From the time I was 3 years old she was my teacher and I managed to fail Sunday School promotion every year until I was 8 years old so I could stay in her class.

She began teaching the 3-year olds when she started helping Mrs. R.C Callaway in the Primary Department at the Old Church on West Clinton Street. She continued and loved the association with the children for the next 66 years. At the time of her re-tirement she was teaching the grandchildren of her first students.

One little fellow was with his mother one day downtown and saw “Miss Marian.” He looked up and told his mother “there goes God is Love.”

Also, to this day, I remember her always saying when the cookies were passed- “take the one you touch.”

She surely has touched many young Huntsville Baptist lives with her love and espe-cially mine.

Mary Rankin Sneed Arnold Vaughn Sneed Written by Jane Sneed Lynn

Mary Rankin Sneed was baptized here in 1917. This church was the center of her life. When a young woman, she was a Sunbeam Leader, Bible School teacher, and active in Sunday School. In 1949, Mary was president of W. M.U. Until well into her 80’s she taught an adult Sunday School Class.

Arnold Vaughn Sneed was baptized in Mississippi around 1916. He was ordained a deacon hero in 1937 and served as a Trustee from 1948-1951. “A.V” was on numerous committees during the 1950’s and 60’s and served on the planning committee for the present building.

Through the financial trials of the 1930’s, the challenge of the war years, (remember people standing for services during the war?), and into the optimistic 1950’s this gen-eration pressed on. “Giving up” was never considered.

“The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.” Psalms 112:6


Cindy Wiles Written by Donna Lehman

When I think about people who have touched my life, the life of First Baptist Church and have made a huge impact in the world at large, I always think of my friend, Cindy Wiles. She teaches people so much by the way she lives. As she has lived out the calling of God, for her own life, she has encouraged us all to do the same. As she lives “out of her comfort zone,” she has beckoned others to do the same. She is a great role model for the kingdom of God. She has taught us to cherish the Bible. I remember countless times, walking into her home, to see her Bible opened on the kitchen table. She displays such a love for the Word. I remember attending women’s conferences with her. Just before bed-time, we would all listen as Cindy would ask us to share our favorite Bible verses. She would share hers. She would read the Word aloud to us. She led many Bible studies for women at FBC. It was from these studies, that many women dug deeper into the Bible. It was from these studies, that I was encouraged to step out of my own comfort zone into leadership of women’s Bible studies. She has led me and so many others to love the people of the world. Anyone who knows Cindy, knows her commitment to the Great Commission. She reminds me of a modern day Paul with her tenacity and her desire to take God’s Word to the world. She is not timid. She is relentless when she knows that God has called her to take His Word to places in this world. She has a missionary’s heart. She has always felt a strong desire to be on the international mission field. Her passion is conta-gious. Through her, the Holy Spirit has lit His Fire in the hearts of many at FBC to go to Africa, Bangladesh…the list goes on. People who had never gone on mission trips were excited about serving. She was instrumental in organizing our Global Missions Center at FBC. Her life’s calling continues as she pours out to places and people all over this globe. She has opened our eyes and hearts to many “people groups” of this world. Cindy taught me about worship. I have known her to “dance” before the Lord, to sing before the Lord and to lift her hands high before the Lord. In her, I see a pas-sionate heart for God that loves worship. She taught me the absolute necessity for wholehearted, pure, worship for Jesus. She cannot be satisfied with stale worship. She taught me that worship can happen anywhere …from the kitchen table to the most formal sanctuary. FBC has been greatly impacted by Cindy’s heart for worship. Worship is at the center of her relationship with Christ. She has shown us the necessity of prayer in all things. She taught me and many at FBC the importance of prayer walking, whether it was within the walls of FBC or a village in Africa. Every mission endeavor was covered in prayer from start to finish. I had the privilege to join prayer teams for many of these trips. She encouraged the writing of prayer cards, as members of our church traveled on mission trips. She lives out Colossians 4:3- “Pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our mes-sage, so that I may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.” This was and still is the prayer of Cindy Wiles’ heart ! Cindy Wiles has touched many hearts at FBC. Her love for Christ impacts people all over the world. She challenges us to live our lives for Christ. My walk with the Lord has become more real and personal because of my mentor, Cindy Wiles. She dra-matically impacted the face of FBC, in the living out of her calling to our Lord, Jesus Christ.




MARK WRITES ON BEING AN ENCOURAGER If there is one basic or universal kind of ministry that everyone can and should do, regardless of gender, age, economic level, spiritual gifts, talents, or experience... this is it! "I thank my God every time I remember you.” (Phil.1:3 NIV) The Apostle Paul was an "appreciator" and encourager. Those of us who want to make a real difference in our church, family, and community might consider following his example. What if everyday we expressed to our spouses, verbally and in writing, our love and appreciation for the important contributions they make to our lives? What if we prayed daily for one or two of our church teenagers or college students? And sent monthly notes expressing our interest and love? Or perhaps even shared an occasional fast-food hamburger or coke with these young people? What if we encouraged those who are beginning a new business, undertaking a challenging new job, or beginning marriage or parenthood by sharing that we have been there ourselves and understand the challenge? What if—in addition to shaking hands at the door and saying, "Nice sermon, pastor!"—we sent notes, or email to our pastors expressing your appreciation and gratitude for his ministry to us? We have all personally experienced God's power to sustain us through difficult times. What if we shared with those facing similar circumstances the Good News that He is always with us? Today's world is hungry for people who actively share God's love through the appreciation, encouragement, and affirmation of others. Try these simple action steps... 1. Every morning ask your Lord—the Great Encourager/Appreciator—to give you a grateful attitude and lead you to people who need your encouragement. 3. Develop the ongoing habit of expressing appreciation to those around you by phone, e-mail, or in person. 4. Once a week (at least) write and mail a brief note of thanks or encouragement to someone you choose. 5. Once a month take a teenage, friend or neighbor out for fast-food and conversation. By taking these action steps you can make a difference...in our church, your family, and neighborhood. It’s about LOVING GOD…SERVING OTHERS…GROWING DISCIPLES

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Noah & Kathryn Hoppe-McQueen 2911 Barcody Rd SE Huntsville AL 35801-2218 OUR NEWEST Anna Elizabeth Moore and Abigail Grace Moore, twin daughters of Mike and Stephanie Moore, 224 Heather Drive, Central, South Carolina 29630, born July 11, 2009. Proud grandparents are Larry and Nancy Moore.

WOMEN’S RETREAT

September 25-27, 2009 Doublehead Resort,

Town Creek, Alabama

Reservation deadline: August 7

It will be here quicker than you think!

Contact the

Adult Ministries Office, 428-9403, to register.

October 30, 2008


I look forward to returning from vacation this Sunday as we gather for worship. The time for rest and renewal has been wonderful, but I will enjoy the chance to see you and worship with you again very soon. For three Sundays I plan to look at selected Psalms for the morning message. These great words from the “Hebrew hymnbook” speak to our hearts. Perhaps these songs of faith can guide us as we tune our lives to sing of God’s love. Here is the message schedule for the next few weeks: July 26 “Enjoy God” Psalm 37:1-11 Theme: Psalm 37 teaches us how we can enjoy God. Do you? August 2 “A Song in the Night” Psalm 42 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

Theme: Even in the dark times of our lives, God gives us a song to sing. Do you know the song?

August 9 “Teaching the Truth” Psalm 78:1-8

Theme: As school begins and students return to the classroom, this Psalm guides adults to know how to teach truth to our children and younger friends. Do you know how to teach the truth?

Sunday, July 26 Sermon: “Enjoy God”

Psalm 37:1-11

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Sunday School - 9:15 a.m.

Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Evening Worship in the Chapel 5:00 p.m.

Ragan Deal, Preaching Ragan has been our Summer Student Ministry Intern.

He is a student at McAfee School of Theology, Atlanta, Georgia

December 18, 2008

July 23, 2009

SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND

BACKPACKS

This Sunday, July 26, is the last day for the collection of school supplies and back-packs. If you have not contrib-uted, please consider how you

can help to make the start of school successful for many students. Supply lists are available on the church web site and at the Welcome Centers. Monetary donations are welcome and this Sunday there will be people located at the Welcome Centers to accept them. After First Fellowship, donations will be accepted at the Welcome Center in the Fellowship Hall. After Sunday School and after the 10:30 service, donations will be accepted at the East Entrance Welcome Center. If you have any ques-tions, contact Debbie Howard at 882-0840 or [email protected]. Thank you for your participation.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, July 26 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Backpack Ministry/FH 11:45 AM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Worship/Chapel 5:00 PM

Monday, July 27 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, July 28 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scout Trp 70/312 6:30 PM

Wednesday, July 29 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Music Ministry Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Stu. “Wacky Wed”/Off-site 12:00—5:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Prayer Mtg/FH 5:45 PM “Wacky Wed./Backyard Grass 6:00 PM Dr. Graham Mission Interest Mtg/118 6:30 PM

Thursday, July 30 Fellowship Club Day Trip 8:30 AM-5:30 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, July 31 Saturday, August 1

LOOKING AHEAD

Women’s Retreat Deadline to register: August 7

Doublehead Resort, Town Creek, AL September 25-27

Contact the Adult Ministries Office.

Preschool Workday August 8

8:00 a.m. - Noon for Sunday School teachers to

prepare classrooms

New Sunday School Year Begins August 9

Children’s & Youth Choirs resume

Week of August 16

Living Christmas Tree Kickoff September 9, 7:00 p.m.

2009 FBC DEACON ELECTION

The 2009 FBC Deacon election will be Sunday, September 20. Nominations end August 16. The nominating forms, which require a signature of the person making the nomination, are available in the Church Office, in Sunday School rooms, and on the FBC web site. If you need a nomination form mailed to your home, please call the Church Office, 428-9400. As you consider someone to nominate, reflect on the Biblical teachings related to the office of Deacon found in I Timothy 3:8-13, Acts 6:1-7, and Romans 16.

Many of us have heard the term Stephen Ministry. But are we sure we know exactly what it is and, more importantly, why it is important to all of us? Let’s take a quick quiz and find out. Answer these following True/False questions about Stephen Ministry.

1. Stephen Ministry is a self-help group like Alcoholic’s Anonymous (AA) or Weight Watchers 2. Stephen’s Ministers are individuals who have a professional degree in psychology or social work 3. In order to take advantage of this ministry, you need to be a member of our church.

If you answered “false” to all the questions above, you are correct. You may already know a lot about the Stephen Ministry, but read on, you may learn even more. Learn and be able to answer these questions for everyone.

Stephen Ministry is not a self-help group like AA or Weight Watchers. Stephen Ministry equips lay people to provide confidential Christian care to individuals in our congregation and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Gifted lay people are trained to support and extend the care that pastors may otherwise provide.

Stephen Ministers do not have to have a professional degree in psychology or social work. A Stephen Minister is a person who has a heart to walk beside a person who is hurting and who has spiritual gifts for care giving. They are individuals who are carefully selected to serve in the role of a Stephen Minister. They are also required to complete approximately 50 hours of training to learn how to provide emotional and spiritual care to another person.

A person does not have to be a member of First Baptist Church Huntsville in order to take advantage of our Stephen Ministry. While it is true our current ministry is reaching out mostly to members of our congregation, others can take advantage of Stephen Ministry at First Baptist Church. If you have a friend, relative or neighbor who needs someone who cares, listens and can pray and support them, they can receive help from our ministry. We strive to tithe our Stephen Ministry care to those outside of our church. Stephen Ministers reach out with God’s love to people who are hurting— both congregation members and non-members alike. Stephen Ministers care for people who are facing tough times. We all experience challenges in life—times when we could benefit from the support of a caring Christian friend. Stephen Ministers are ready to provide the emotional and spiritual care you or a friend need when faced with a crisis or difficulty, whether you are facing:

· Loss of a loved one · Divorce or separation · Loneliness or discouragement · A chronic or terminal illness

Are you struggling with some issues that seem overwhelming at times? Do you know someone who is suffering from grief or loneliness? Could someone you know benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister? If you have any questions about the work of the Stephen Ministers in and around First Baptist Church, call Rebecca Dean, our Stephen Ministry Referral Coordinator at 256-428-9434.

Student Ministries Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students Please continue to remember our students and adults who are on the Hungary Mission Trip. They will return this Sunday, July 26.

FYI

Menu Wednesday, July 29

Chicken-Fried Chicken

Mashed Potatoes Green Beans

Roll Dessert

Salad



STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #42 - July 19, 2009


This Week $65,912.93 YTD $3,369,995.67


ATTENDANCE JULY 19 - 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services First Fellowship 287 Sanctuary Worship 734 Men’s Retreat 21 Student Mission Trip 30 TOTAL 1072


Listening

As Jesus said, “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." Parents can use this principle to understand a child’s heart. Listening becomes the key.

It’s surprising how many times we ask kids why they don’t talk to their parents and hear the answer: “Because they don’t listen to me.” Yes, it’s true some children confuse listening with agreeing. On the other hand, we find some parents really don’t listen to their children, whether they agree or not. They’re irritated by the illogic, different viewpoints, or naive opinions of their children.

Listening can feel like torture as a child goes on and on about things that don’t make sense to the parent. It’s in these moments, however, that parents can learn a lot about a child’s heart. Children may be wrong, but they’re usually following some kind of internal logic. Listening allows you to figure out what's going on and offer correction where helpful.

As you listen to your kids talk, try to discern what may be distracting them from understanding the truth. Don’t feel like you have to point it out on the spot. Take time to listen and make mental notes of errors in their thinking. Look for creative ways to help them understand truth more fully.

An accepting, safe, listening ear often opens the heart in ways that nothing else can. As you listen to your child, you’ll learn about dreams, goals, and commitments. Good or bad, time spent listening to your children gives you a greater sense of what’s going on inside, offering you ideas and direction about heart change that’s needed. This tip comes from the book Parenting is Heart Work by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

CARIBBEAN MISSION PROJECT - NOVEMBER 21—28

This mission project led by Dr. Jerry Graham will be to the Dominican Republic working with Haitian immigrants. Although medical personnel are needed there is also the need for assistance in non-medical areas as well. People needed: Pharmacist, Dentist, and other workers to help with distributing medicines, witnessing, and assisting the eye glasses team. No experience needed for the helpers, each person will receive training. This project will be working with the SBC missionaries Sam and Delores York. The cost of the trip will be between $1200 and $1500 depending on airline cost. There will be some financial assistance available. A passport will be required. If you are interested or need more information, contact Laura at Dr. Graham’s office, 256-461-7482. An interest meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 29, in Room 118 at 6:30 p.m. This project is now available for registration.

First Baptist has just completed the third quarter of this financial year. Offerings are $3,178,641 toward a goal of $3,186,785, just $8,100 under our expected giving. This is a much better report than we were able to give at the midway point in our fiscal year. At the end of March, we were $121,552 below our expected ministry goal. Your generous gifts have made up that shortfall and sustained giving through the third quarter near the budgeted level. Thank you for your con-tinued financial support of this church and your realization that ministry depends upon your faithfulness – not only finan-cially but also in gifts of time and ability. To meet our last quarter ministry goals we must continue to give sacrificially – giving as you have received.

Did you know that your church . . . helps underprivileged mothers develop work and life skills? Provides instruction

in English as a second language? Provides tutoring for inner city children? Supports community construction projects? Reaches hundreds of homes weekly through its television ministry? Meets community benevolence needs in food, prescrip-tion drugs and housing? Sends medical and missionary teams around the world? Opens its doors to myriad groups for community meetings, rehearsals, Bible studies and concerts? Offers a vast array of worship and Bible study opportunities for all age groups?

Find your place of service and continue to support the ministry of FBC with your influence, inspiration, joy, and excite-

ment as we love and give.

Ministry Budget October - June, FY 2009 YTD Budget YTD Actual Ministry Receipts $ 3,186,785 $ 3,178,641 Ministry Expenditures: Vision for Ministry: Worship 58,537 34,774 Evangelism 134,650 124,524 Spiritual Growth 176,364 140,567 Ministry Development 5,150 4,637 Congregational Life 103,948 79,432 Missions 382,416 381,437 Total $ 861,065 $ 765,371 Equipping for Ministry 1,457,235 1,370,439 Support for Ministry 862,541 740,975 Other Income-Interest ( 6,348) Other Expenses-Bank Fees $ 4,800 $ 4,572 Total Ministry Expenditures $ 3,185,641 $ 2,875,009 Excess $ 1,144 $ 303,632

First Baptist Church SUMMER 2009

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

Between Me and God and ______?

(This is reproduced fromThe Generosity Letter, an electronic newsletter produced by Ruben Swint, our capital campaign consultant, who is a Senior Strategist with GENERIS.

I have been hearing the phrase for nearly three decades now, ever since I began serving the local church. I have heard the phrase during annual stewardship programs and during capital campaigns. I have heard it every time stewardship was the sermon subject or the Bible study topic. You have heard it too. "What I give to the church is between me and God!" I have heard this phrase so often that I used to think that somewhere in the Bible those exact words must appear. The truth is that this phrase is a phantom text similar to "God helps those who help themselves." It is a persistent statement though and it has become part of the landscape any time money, giving, stewardship or generosity is mentioned. "What I give to the church is between me and God." Well, yes it is. I have no problem with that statement. I respect a donor's preference for the confidentiality of their giving. I have many church clients who have even institutional-ized the phrase. Periodic public statements or written articles reinforce the confidentiality of all giving. "No one knows what someone else gives, especially not me," many pastors say. Whether the pastor, or someone, should know what others give is a topic for another time. What I want to ask is not whether giving should be private or public, but rather whether my giving is between me and God only? Because the Christian faith is lived in community, I would say that what I give is between me and God and be-tween me and the other believers in my church family. If my church is a family of faith who are on mission for God's kingdom, then what I give, or do not give, has an impact on our life together, whether others know what I give or not. I am part of the body and I have a part to play. I have time, talent and money to contribute to the common good and for a common cause. What I give is between me and fellow believers in my church because we are connected to one another in Christ. That spiritual connection is expressed in glad and generous sharing. "Now all the believ-ers were one in heart and soul, and nobody called any of his possessions his own. Instead, they shared everything they owned." Acts 4:32 NIV Similarly, what I give is between me and God and between me and others who need some good news. Even in the United States, there are many people who need the good news of a warm meal, a safe place to live, clean cloth-ing, medicine and employment. What I give is between me and those who need what I can make possible. Luke's parable of the rich man and Lazarus indicates that how close we allow the poor to come to us and to our wealth can determine how close we will be to God. What I give is between me and God. Yes! What I give is between me and the fellow believers in my church family. Yes again! And what I give is between me and the lost and suffering in my world. Most certainly, yes! So for me, my giving provides a spiritual connection to God, to His church and to the world He desires to save. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!




The Start of a New Sunday School Year is upon Us Sunday, August 2 Sunday School Leadership Preparation Day *Leadership, be on the lookout for details to come. Sunday, August 9 New Year Begins! *All, watch for our new listing of 2009/10 classes and locations. Two New Early Adulthood Classes will be included in the listing. More details to come. As one year ends and a new one begins, let’s remember to:

-Thank God for the blessings received. -Thank leadership for the service that has been given. -Prayerfully consider our own place of service, place of connection in the new year. -Commit afresh to be a part of Bible study, fellowship, and Christian care with a group at church.

CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S JOB CORPS CWJC is in need of GED tutors for our fall session. If interested, please call Elaine Dickson at 428-9435 for more information.

UKRAINE MISSION TRIP July 31 – August 9

Team Members “On Mission”

Agape Baptist Church, Scottsboro, Alabama

Max Croft, Devon Price, Tommy McGee, Mike Burton, Shelia Bailey

First Baptist, Huntsville Myra Haythorn, Jimmy Wall, Jr., Marty Martinec

Your prayers are requested for the presence and power of the Holy Spirit

to be evident in every life involved in this mission.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS John Mark Blankenship 100 Davion Ct Madison AL 35758-9211 Russell Buring 305 Seminole Dr SW Huntsville AL 35805-3861 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Terry & Jimmy Lott in the loss of her mother, Robbie & Michael Klemm in the loss of her mother, Chandler and Riley Klemm in the loss of their grandmother, Joyce Freisen in the loss of her sister, John & Robin Freisen in the loss of his aunt, and Taylor, Anna Kate, and Andrew Freisen in the loss of their great aunt, Bobby Dudley Eustis & Amy Walker in the loss of his mother, Annie Walker

Thanks A thank you note has been received from D.K. and Brenda Hale, Directors of Canada “Arms of Love.” This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the church office.

AT HIS FEET Intercessory Prayer

Ministry Team

“Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! He is the Father who is compassionate and the God who gives comfort. He comforts us whenever we suffer. That is why whenever other people suffer, we are able to comfort them by using the same comfort we have received from God.” 2 Cor. 1:3-4


October 30, 2008


On Wednesday night, August 12, our church will have a Quarterly Business Meeting. As usual, we will hear reports about the work of the church. Various recommendations will come from

committees that may require our vote. One item in particular needs some advance announcement. The Leadership Council will be presenting a recommendation that a Building Committee be formed to provide leadership as we move forward with our building program. A Facilities Planning Committee has given excellent service to our church for several years as they have worked with architects to develop a plan for the growth of our facilities. Now it is time to form a Building Committee that will implement the next chapter of this project. A recommendation from the Leadership Council will describe the charter for the Building Committee and will define the scope of their work. If this motion passes, then the Nominating Committee will be prepared to present a slate of nominees to serve on the Building Committee. The Nominating Committee is hard at work right now selecting people to serve on this Committee. If elected by the church, the Building Committee would begin to work immediately. Does this mean that we are ready to move ahead with our building project? No, not yet. The Leadership Council will continue to discuss and prayerfully discern when the best time will be to launch a Capital Stewardship Campaign and a construction program. When that time comes, they will bring a recommendation to the Deacons and to the church. There is much that can be done in the meantime, however, and the Leadership Council feels that now is a good time for the Building Committee to begin its work. I hope that you will join us for the Business Meeting as we discuss the next step that we will be taking to improve and enlarge our facilities for the purpose of enhancing the ministry opportunities for our church.

Sunday, August 2 Sermon: “A Song in the Night” - Psalm 42

Celebration of the Lord’s Supper



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Guest Soloist — Mark Blankenship

Sanctuary Choir Anthem: “In Remembrance” —Red FBC Men’s Ensemble: “Come to the Table” —arr. Lister

Evening Service - 5:00 p.m. - Chapel

Jane Hull, Student at McAfee School of Theology, Atlanta, Georgia, will preach.

Instrumental Trio: “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me” arr. Tom Guffin

(Susan Keene, Joel Keene, and Nancy Morton)

December 18, 2008 July 30, 2009

LOOKING AHEAD

Adult Sunday School Leadership Meetings Sunday, August 2 - 11:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Women’s Retreat

Deadline to register: August 7 See page 2 for more information.

Preschool Workday

Saturday, August 8, 8:00 a.m. - Noon

New Sunday School Year Begins August 9

Children’s & Youth Choirs Resume

Week of August 16

Kids’ Meals Resume Wednesday, August 19

Living Christmas Tree Kickoff September 9, 7:00 p.m.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, August 2 First Fellowship/ 8:15 AM Lord’s Supper & Baptism/FH Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/ 10:30 AM Lord’s Supper & Baptism SS Leaders/Lunch/FH 11:30 AM Early Adult SS Kickoff/111 12:30 AM Exp. Adults SS Kickoff/118 12:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Worship/Chapel 5:00 PM Stu/ Summer Night/Off Site 5:00 PM

Monday, August 3 Backpack Ministry/FH 9:00 AM-12:;00 PM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Deacons/118 6:00 PM

Tuesday, August 4 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Learning Quest/241,242 8:45 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Backpack Distribution/CLC 5:30 PM Grief Share/CLC-Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scout Trp 70/312 6:30 PM

Wednesday, August 5 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Discipleship Comm/117 5:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 5:30 PM Prayer Mtg/FH 5:45 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM FBC Saxophone Ensemble/Sanct 7:00 PM

Thursday, August 6 Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, August 7

Saturday, August 8 WEE Kickoff/ 7:00 AM-3:30 PM WEE Area,118 Preschool Workday/201 8:00 AM-12:00 PM

WOMEN’S RETREAT September 25-27, 2009

Doublehead Resort, Town Creek, Alabama

Guest Leader: Suzanne Matthews Reservation deadline: August 7

Call the Adult Ministries Office, 428-9403. What is the beginning of every spiritual life? What can exhilarate us and draw us close to God, yet at the same time, frustrate us and consistently remain our greatest challenge? Prayer! After the disciples had been with Jesus for quite some time, they said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray.” They really meant, “Lord, we want to learn to pray like You pray!” Looking into Luke 11, and leading us to revive our prayer lives, Suzanne Matthews will lead the First Baptist Women’s Retreat September 25-26 at Doublehead Resort in Town Creek, Alabama. Suzanne taught the Bible Study Fellowship Evening Women’s class in Huntsville for 14 years. She currently teaches classes for her church, St. Andrew’s Anglican Mission. She recently retired from the Huntsville Museum of Art as the Director of Advancement and enjoys reading and oil painting. Suzanne is married to Ben and they have four children – Houston, Nate, Sarah and Molly. Molly and her husband, Casey Turner, have Suzanne and Ben’s first grandchild, Anna Claire.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, August 14

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Speaker: Mayor Tommy Battle

Menu:

Taco Salad with Meat, Lettuce, Cheese, Beans, Tomatoes Dessert

Call Myra Haythorn at 837-3107

for reservations.

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Line Dancing starts back on Monday, August 3 rd. Call the CLC at 428-9445 to find how you can join this exciting group.

GriefShare starts its fall session on August 4th at the CLC. Contact the Adult Ministries Office at 428-9403 for details.

SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, August 14th at the CLC. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI

Menu Wednesday, August 5

Steak Burger Baked Beans

Cole Slaw Dessert

Salad

Grilled Chicken Salad

(Reservations for salad must be turned in by noon on

Wednesday.)

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #43 - July 26, 2009


This Week $62,065.74 YTD $3,444,695.41


ATTENDANCE July 26, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services First Fellowship 353 Sanctuary Worship 689 Student Mission Trip 30 TOTAL 1072

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children PARENTING MOMENT: But Mom, Everyone's Doing It Has your child ever come to you and made the statement "Everyone's doing it," to get you to give in to a request? Children use all kinds of tactics to get permission for things parents would rather not say yes to. Keep these three things in mind when you are challenged with that statement.

First, sometimes kids believe that appropriate behavior is determined by the culture. Rather, the rules you set up are based upon the values you hold. Different families have different values so as parents we need to decide what values and convictions we are going to use to determine the rules and expectations for our own families.

Second, not everyone else is doing it. There are many families that set guidelines similar to, or even more strict, than yours. Children have a tendency to find more permissive families to compare themselves to so they can ask for more.

Third, recognize that this statement is a manipulative technique. It makes us feel like we’re depriving our kids of something. Parenting is hard work and too many parents are unwilling to take a stand for what’s right and for values that are wholesome and healthy.

Don't let your children push your buttons with the statement, "Everyone's doing it." Instead, use the opportunity to teach them about your convictions and the values behind the rules you set. This idea was taken from the audio CD series, "Eight Secrets to Highly Effective Parenting," by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN. AT HIS FEET

Intercessory Prayer Ministry Team

“For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as we did when we first

became Christians, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.” Hebrews 3:14


UPCOMING WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES Hi friends, I know that I had planned on leading Beth Moore’s, “Esther” study this coming Fall, but I feel like God is leading me in a different direction. Here is what I will be doing in the Fall. I hope that you will come and bring friends!! All ages welcome!

“He Will Come to Us Like the Rain - DOWNPOUR” Written by Pastor James McDonald 12 - week workbook and DVD study

With its powerful call to revival, James’ study leads believers to lift up their eyes and return to the Lord. In this, God brings healing, restoration, and revival. God gave this message to Hosea, and it’s still true today. So if you are thirsty for spiritual renewal this may be the study for you! This study will look at people in God’s Word and people of our “recent past” that have been brought to personal revival. Such people are King Josiah, King Hezekiah, King David, Jonah, Peter, and the first 120 followers of Christ. Also, we will touch on Jonathan Edwards and the First Great Awakening, the revival in Scotland, the Cana-dian revival, the revival in Wales, the Moravian revival and the Shantung revival.

Study Begins:

Tuesday. August 25 (starting earlier this year!)

12-week DVD-study on Tuesday mornings. Led by Donna Lehman Room 342, First Baptist Church

9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Childcare is available.

Call me (536-9003) if interested so books can be ordered and childcare reservations can be made.

Donna Lehman

* * * * *

Kay Arthur Precept Study Led by Kennie Worlund

Isaiah 1-39

"The Word of the Holy One of Israel, the Remnant and the Nations… and the Promise of the Child to be Born"

Study Begins:

Wednesday, August 19 through December 2 Wednesday mornings - Room 341, First Baptist Church

9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Cost of book is $26.50

Please call Kennie Worlund if interested - 539-4275 or 603-6458 - so that books may be ordered.


ETHEL BUSH Written by Glennice Swaim

Early in my First Baptist life, God gave me the gift of Ethel Bush as my Sunday School teacher. Ethel supplied us with prepared Sunday School lessons com-plete with the Word of God and practical application. She mothered us, she en-couraged us, she reprimanded us when necessary, and she helped grow us into more than we were. She, through personal example, lived out her personal commitment to be a good wife, a good mother, a good friend, a good community leader, a strong defender of all that is good and decent, a “can do” attitude even when the prospects were daunting. She and James were there for the good times and the bad. These many years later, my life is brightened every time I see her and Andrew on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Their strong walk, grounded in their faith, and their warm smiles and words of concern and en-couragement, speak volumes of how life can be well lived.

DAVID HINKLE

Written by Ray Swaim

The year was 1990. I was at a crossroads in my life. I met Glennice, who would later become my wife. Then I met First Baptist Church. Then I met David Hinkle. God gave me to David Hinkle as his newest assignment. He became my friend, my father figure, my mentor, and my barber. He fulfilled that assignment with such love and grace. He spotted what natural ability I had that God could best use and he drew me in to be a part of the usher group which he headed up at that time. When I became a member of First Baptist, it was David Hinkle that I saw walking down the aisle toward me, followed by my fellow ushers. I was moved and blest in a profound way. David Hinkle….. gentle, smiling, eyes sparkling, outstretched hand, warm…..the epitome of "God's doorkeeper in the House of the Lord.” Only God and the walls of the little one-man chair barbershop on Poincianna Street have the faintest notion of all that David Hinkle did to represent His Lord and Saviour and to en-courage and uplift men from a wide range of ages and interests through the years. He would cut your hair, cash your checks, and Biblically counsel you in a single sitting. I have just recently been added to the deacon board of First Baptist Church, Huntsville. It's one more growing step in my walk with the Lord, first put in motion by David Hinkle faithfully serving his Lord.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 62, July 30, 2009.


Adult Sunday School Leadership Meetings

Wednesday July 29th at 5:15-5:45 - Room 118 Division Directors and Departments Directors meeting

Sunday, August 2 - 11:45 a.m. . - 1:45 p.m.

Fellowship Hall and Room 118 Adult Sunday School Motivational Event for all Adult Sunday School leaders.

Schedule 11:45-12:30 Lunch

12:30 Dismiss for Room 118 12:45-1:45 Time with Bo

Our special guest will be Dr. Bo Prosser, CBF Coordinator for Congregational Life. This Sunday School Motivational Event will be for all our 2009-10 Adult Sunday School leadership team… Department Directors, Teachers, Assistant Teachers, Outreach Leaders and other Sunday School Leadership. There will be no cost for the meal and no reservations required for leadership; however a donation and reservation will be required for all non-Sunday School workers. Reservations are needed for those individuals.

* * * * *

August 4th – October 27th 2009

Tuesday Evenings, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Registration: $15

First Baptist Church - CLC 428-9400 or visit www.fbchsv.org

* * * * *

To better help in the planning for the health ministry within our church, your assistance is needed in the filling out of the survey forms that you will find this Sunday in your Sunday School Department or class. There will be no need for you to sign your

name unless you want to. All information is confidential and will be used for planning programs this fall and coming spring.

You may return them through your Sunday School box, drop them by the Adult Ministry Office, or give them to Eugenia Graves, our First Baptist Church Parish Nurse.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Griffin Blake 107 Bridge Arbor Lane Huntsville AL 35811-9761 Ethan Canup 102 Preserve Ct Madison AL 35758-3661 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Kitty Johnson in the loss of her brother and Tommy & Penny Johnson in the loss of his uncle, Talmadge Ryan Larry & Lisa Kimmons in the loss of his father, William Kimmons Family and friends of our member, Maxine McMurtrie

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Terry Dudley Lott, Rebecca Dean and Family, and Bill and Penny Hastings. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

You are warmly invited to the Service of Ordination

of

Emily Katherine Hull to the

Ministry of the Gospel

Sunday, August 9, 2009 7:00 p.m.

First Baptist Church 510 West Main Street

Knoxville, Tennessee 37902

www.fbcknox.org/events/hull-ordination

Reception to follow.

October 30, 2008


School is about to begin. The new season of learning invites us to ask the questions again, “How do we learn?” and “How should we teach?” School teachers are preparing for the new year by discussing these kinds of questions. Sunday School teachers, choir leaders, mission group leaders, and youth leaders are talking about the same things as a new church year begins. How do we learn? How should we teach?

On Sunday morning we will listen to Psalm 78 as we wrestle with these questions. This is a Psalm that encourages “Teaching the Truth.” What instructions might God have for you about how we can teach one another? Let’s open our Bibles and find out on Sunday morning. I am reminded of the old Chinese saying: I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I do and I understand. Sometimes learning happens best through doing. That is why it will be important for you to come on Sunday evening as well as Sunday morning. Recently our older youth and their leaders took a mission trip to Hungary. They did not just hear about the Roma people – they met them. They did not just see the work of the Gandhi School in Pecs, Hungary – they worked to make the school a better place for the Roma youth. These experiences of doing have taught those who went on the trip some wonderful lessons. Will you be present on Sunday night at 5:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall so that our youth and their leaders can tell you something that they have learned through these experiences? Jane and I will not be present for the Sunday night program. Instead, we will leave right after church on Sunday morning and travel to the First Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN where our daughter, Emily, will be ordained to the Gospel Ministry. You may have noticed an invitation to the entire church in last week’s edition of The Messenger. As we prepare to participate in her ordination, I can’t help but think of all of the Sunday School teachers, choir leaders, mission group leaders, youth leaders, and mission trips that helped to teach Emily the way of faith. She is now sharing her gifts in teaching others as the Minister to Young Adults at the Highland Baptist Church in Louisville, KY. These are important questions. “How do we learn?” and “How should we teach?” Let’s talk about them this Sunday. I look forward to seeing you then.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Sermon: “Teaching the Truth” Psalm 78:1-8



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir sings

“In Christ Alone” —arr. Hayes Solo by Alicia Pettis

Evening Service 5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall

Youth Mission Report

December 18, 2008 August 6, 2009

Our new year begins this

Sunday, August 9.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, August 9 Promotion Sunday First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Boy Scout Trp 70/343 3:00 PM Hungary Mission Trip Report/FH 5:00 PM Student Ice Cream Social/ Grass 6:00 PM

Monday, August 10 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, August 11 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC-Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scout Trp 70/312 6:30 PM HAP Board Meeting/ 6:30 PM

Wednesday, August 12 Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev. Comm/117 5:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 5:30 PM M&M Training/118 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Quarterly Business Mtg/FH 5:45 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM

Thursday, August 13 The Vine Board/Parlor 11:30 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM

Friday, August 14 Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM

Saturday, August 15

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

Friday, August 14 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Speaker: Mayor Tommy Battle

Menu: Taco Salad with Meat, Lettuce,

Cheese, Beans, Tomatoes Dessert

Call Myra Haythorn at 837-3107

for reservations.


MUSIC MINISTRY GROUPS ARE BEGINNING! Find your place of service. Each group represents a wonderful means of experiencing worship, fellowship, and ministry—

Sanctuary Choir and FBC Orchestra have begun regular rehearsals. Children’s and Youth Choirs kick off the week of August 16.

The Living Christmas Tree

celebrates 25 years of ministry this year! Kickoff is September 9.

FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE Sunday Nights (August 16-October 25) 5:00-6:00 PM unless otherwise noted

FOUNDATIONS in Fellowship Hall taught by David Hull Who: All Ages What: “Eternal Life”- an 8-week study from the Gospel of John

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY/LIFE GROUP Who: Women, all ages What: Growing Weary of Doing Good? Encouragement for Exhausted Women Contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403; [email protected] PARENT TIME Who: Parents of all ages What: Learning from our Ministry Staff about various development issues as we parent MARRIAGE CONSTRUCTION Who: Dating Couples who are considering marriage, Engaged Couples, Newlywed Couples (married 3 years or less) What: Let’s talk about marriage! When: August 30-October 25 Time: 6:00-8:00 PM Contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403; [email protected] MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS - taught by Elizabeth Hostetter Who: Adults (do not have to be in choir) What: Learn to read music, rhythms, key signatures, some sight-singing. Designed to develop your basic music skills . Contact Elizabeth for more information, 428-9423; [email protected]

DINNER THEATRE The Hallelujah Choir began preparing for a

Dinner Theatre this past Monday. (Rehearsals are 10:30 a.m.)


FYI Menu

Wednesday, August 12 Parmesan Chicken

Pasta Noodles - Green Salad Roll - Dessert

Salad



Kids’ Meals will resume August 19.

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 44 - August 2, 2009


This Week $85,813.90 YTD $3,530,509.31


ATTENDANCE August 2, 2009

Sunday School



ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)

Our English as a Second Language Ministry will resume on August 20, after our summer break. We are looking for volunteers and greeters; also for people to share about their hobbies/special interests at coffee breaks, and Sunday School classes/groups willing to provide coffee break cake. There is a teacher training workshop at Shocco Springs - August 27-29. Please contact Tina Darby if you are interested in helping with our ESL Ministry.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool PLAYGROUND HELP The mulch on our playground needs some attention from some caring friends who have TILLERS. After lots of rain and children playing on it when it is wet, the mulch becomes compacted. If we had some folks with tillers who could spend some time “fluffing” the mulch it would help it to last longer and also provide a safer fall surface for our children. Please call Joy, 428-9427, or Terri, 428-9440, if you would be able to help us with this safety issue. We are having a Preschool Workday in our classrooms on Saturday, August 8 th and hope that this playground preparation can happen at the same time. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Wow! Your MOPS Steering Team has put together some wonderful events for Mothers of

Preschoolers! We hope you will join us this year in our meetings. We will meet 2 times a month beginning in September. The meetings are the 2nd and 4 th Mondays of the month from 9 – 11 a.m. in Room 118. Childcare is free in a MOPPETS classroom

but you do need to call for reservations by the Monday before a meeting takes place to hold a place for your child. Call 428-9411 for MOPPETS reservations and for more information about MOPS. Reserve Saturday, August 15 for a FBC MOPS Family picnic!!! The picnic will be held at Brahan Springs Park from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Bring a covered dish to share and your own drinks! There is a playground for the children and other activities will be planned. Directions: Go south on Memorial Parkway, turn right onto Drake Ave, turn right onto Ivy St., Our picnic is located at Pavilion 2 which is the first pavilion you come to that is next to a playground and restrooms. FBC MOPS Family Kick Off Event: Saturday, September 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at FBC's CLC. Bring your family and invite your friends that are mothers of preschoolers!! There will be activities for the children as well as for mom and dad! "Where two or three come together ... there I am with them." Matthew 18:20

We welcome new 7th Graders! Ice Cream Social—6:00 PM on FBC Grass

Hungary Mission Team Report

Sunday, August 9 5:00 PM

in the Fellowship Hall

Come hear from our students and adults as they share their

experiences while on an incredible mission trip.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 31, August 6, 2009


¦ Are you a Young/Median Adult who is new to the Family of FBC? ¦ Are you a Young/Median Adult who is new to the Family of FBC? ¦ Recently Joined? Interested Guest?¦ Recently Joined? Interested Guest?

¦ Would you like to know more about FBC’s People and Ministries?¦ Would you like to know more about FBC’s People and Ministries?

Getting to know you and helping you feel connected is important to us!

ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, A NEW CLASS WILL BEGIN:ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, A NEW CLASS WILL BEGIN:

Sunday mornings, 9:15-10:10 Room 241-A

A 12-week class that will cycle continuously through the year Facilitators: Debbie McDaniel, Joe & Patsy McPhail

Offered for adults, average ages 20s-50s

This class is new in our options of Early Adulthood Sunday School Classes. It is offered for the purpose of helping new members and guests learn about FBC and explore ministry opportunities of interest to them. Getting to know each other and fostering a sense of belonging within the Family of FBC are key components of the class. The curriculum is organized with a 12-week cycle of lessons. People may enter the class at any point along the cycle. Each week’s lesson includes Bible study and an opportunity to learn something about FBC. Members of the church staff and other church leadership will take a turn sharing with class members. As a part of the class, group members will learn about our other Sunday Morning Bible Study options. After completing their 12-week cycle in “Meet FBC,” these well-connected (!) class members will be equipped to join an on-going Sunday Morning Bible Study Group of their choice. The class will continue its 12-week cycle throughout the year (noting again that people may enter the class at any point during the year).

Is this class of interest to you? Is this class of interest to you? Would you like to be a part of the group that begins on August 9?Would you like to be a part of the group that begins on August 9?

Contact Pam McDaniel ([email protected]; 428-9414) to sign up or for more information.

Looking forward to connecting with you! Save the Date….Friday, August 21 – COUPLE TIME! Watch for more information to come.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Jamie Richardson 1606 Montdale Rd SE Huntsville AL 35801-2130 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Debbie Bell in the loss of her cousin, Roger Bell Marilyn Johnson in the loss of her mother, Maye Johnson Family and friends of former FBC member, Claudell Shippey Sue Ellen & Cliff Sisson in the loss of her mother, Eudine Thompson OUR NEWEST Cody Cooper Hance, son of Murray and Jana Hance, 126 White Road, Headland, AL 36345, born July 28, 2009. Proud grandparents are Larry and Judith Whittington. Rylee Brooke Banta, daughter of Chris and Aimee Banta, 2372 Chalybe Trail, Hoover, AL 35226, born July 30, 2009. Proud grandparents are Mark and Angela Seanor.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Christine Riddle, Jim and Rita Davenport, Clifton Sisco, Peggy Owen, Mary Adams, Evelyn Rutland, and the CoDA Group (for use of our building). These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

UPCOMING WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES

“He Will Come to Us Like the Rain

- DOWNPOUR” Written by Pastor James McDonald 12 - week workbook and DVD study

Begins Tuesday. August 25 Led by Donna Lehman

Room 342, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Childcare is available.

Call 536-9003 so books can be ordered and childcare reservations can be made.

* * * * Kay Arthur Precept Study

Led by Kennie Worlund Isaiah 1-39

"The Word of the Holy One of Israel, the Remnant and the Nations…

and the Promise of the Child to be Born" Study Begins:

Wednesday, August 19 - December 2 Room 341, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Cost of book is $26.50 Please call Kennie Worlund if interested - 539-4275 or 603-6458 - so that books may

be ordered.

October 30, 2008


Our Bicentennial Theme Verses, Hebrews 12:1-2, begin with the word, “Therefore.” Anytime we see that word in the Bible, we know that it refers to what comes before it. We need to look to see what it is “there for.” The great “Roll Call of Faith” or “Hall of Fame of Faith” is what we find in Hebrews 11. We see a list of names of heroes who faced the challenges before them “by faith.” It is this list of names that is referenced in the words, “Therefore,

since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses . . .” The first half of our Bicentennial celebration year gave us a chance to remember the past. The remainder of the year will let us look to the future to the “race that is set before us.” How do we move into this next chapter in the great history of our church? By faith! How do we face an unknown future in our personal lives, family lives, and our vocations? By faith! On Wednesday nights (beginning August 19) I will teach about many of the names mentioned in Hebrews 11. We will study one person each night and learn how they lived “by faith.” On Sunday mornings we will focus on two people mentioned in Hebrews 11 as we explore the theme, “By Faith!” Abraham moved out into the unknown to follow God by faith. His great-grandson, Joseph, endured tremendous hardships but thrived because he lived “by faith.” There are lessons here for all of us to learn as we move into God’s future “by faith.” I invite you to join us on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights as we let these Bible heroes of the past show us how to live into our future.

“By Faith . . . Abraham” August 16 “God’s Call” Genesis 12:1-3 August 23 “God’s Covenant” Genesis 15:1-21 August 30 “God’s Timing” Genesis 17:1-16 September 6 “God’s Provision” Genesis 22:1-19

“By Faith . . . Joseph” September 13 “Abandoned” Genesis 37 September 20 “Tested” Genesis 39 September 27 “Trapped” Genesis 40-41 October 4 “Promoted” Genesis 41:46- 50:26 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

Sunday, August 16 Sermon: “God’s Call” - Genesis 12:1-3



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir will sing. The FBC Big Band will play.

Sunday Evenings - 5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall FOUNDATIONS - A new 8-week study begins:

“Eternal Life” - from the Gospel of John This Sunday Evening - Introduction: What is Eternal Life?


Music and Missions Kickoff is Wednesday, August 19th ! It’s time to start back with our Wednesday night children’s programs! We’ve got a really exciting year planned for our children, and hope that yours will be involved! We have classes for our preschool as well as grade-school children: Preschool Music is a great time of fun and creativity! Our children will be moving, singing and playing instruments, as they explore the differ-ent ways to make music in their world. Parents will be invited into the classroom regularly to share these experiences with their child. Preschool Missions (Mission Friends) is a time when children begin to learn what a missionary is. They will learn about other cultures through dress, food and many other activities. They will also partici-pate in Mission Projects. Children’s Music is made up of four different choirs—Music Makers 1,2,3 and Young Musicians. These children continue in their Music Education by using games, instruments and movement to learn musical concepts. They will also spend time finding and developing their mu-sical voice. These groups will participate in the Hanging of the Green service at the beginning of Advent. Young Musicians Choir will take an out of town trip in the spring. Children’s Missions is made up of GA’s for girls and RA’s for boys. These groups continue the study and love of missions begun as pre-school children. Participation in more extensive mission projects such as the Shoe Box ministry, clothes closet ministry, and ministry to our church homebound members help these children to truly “Go into all the world….” Our children are invited to eat dinner with us in Fellowship Hall – cost is $3.50. Children’s choir begins at 5:25 p.m., with Missions classes beginning at 6:10 and ending at 7 p.m. Watch your mail for a postcard with more information (room numbers, etc.)!

Ministry Calendar Sunday, August 16 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Community Class Brunch/107-108 10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 4:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time/114 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Monday, August 17 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Women’s BSF/118 4:45 AM Tuesday, August 18 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Rotary Club/FH 11:45 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Wednesday, August 19 WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Congregational Life Comm/114 5:00 PM M&M 5:20 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 5:30 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Matrix/309-310 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, August 20 Student Prayer Breakfast/FH 6:00 AM ESL/First Floor 9:00 AM WEE Parent Orientation/Chapel 5:00 PM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:30 PM Friday, August 21 Couple Time/FH 5:00 PM Arrowood-Roden Reh/Chapel 5:00 PM Saturday, August 22 Arrowood-Roden Wedding/Chapel 5:00 PM

YOUTH CHOIR The Youth Choir begins a new

year this Sunday !! Special 4:00 p.m. kickoff

rehearsal in the Choir Room. Snack Supper and Fellowship

to follow.

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Easter to Easter Challenge 2009-2010 Have you accepted the challenge yet? Our pastor, on the Sunday after Easter, encouraged us to commit to building a relationship with one person or family in the span from Easter 2009 to Easter 2010. Using the “I” cube theme of invite, invest, and introduce, we are to focus on just one family or person to help them see first hand the relationship of Christ in our lives. In the next few weeks we will provide each person with a booklet full of suggestions and information on how we build these relationships and introduce them to Christ. Watch for this in your Sunday School classes/departments and at the welcome centers. We hope you will find this helpful as we focus this year on outreach to people all around us.

The Vine Pastoral Counseling Center: Celebrating Ten Years of Ministry to the Community!

Ten years after our beginning, The Vine Pastoral Counseling Center is growing and stronger than ever. Our four therapists provide more than 250 sessions per month of individual marriage and family counseling. We exist to serve the needs of the community, particularly our supporting churches, so please call if we can be of assistance to you. We are grateful to you for supporting and partnering with our ministry! Our beginning... In 1998 a committee from the Huntsville Association for Pastoral Care was formed to explore the need for and interest in an ecumenical pastoral counseling center. During this process, Frank Broyles, Executive Director of HAPC, introduced Amanda and Jack Ragland to Jim Norris. The Raglands and Jim shared a common vision for a pastoral counseling center that would be supported by and accountable to local congregations who wanted to partner with one another to provide counseling to individuals, couples, and families in North Alabama, regardless of their ability to pay. In March of 1999, The Vine Pastoral Counseling Center was established, and the vision became a reality. We are thankful for the opportunity to be a vessel of Christ's compassion and healing in the world. In ten years we have...

Provided 26,975 hours of counseling to the community Provided $42,755 of Scholarship Assisted Sessions Grown to include 18 supporting churches and 2 supporting organizations

In the future we hope to... Continue to reach more people through additional staff and offices, which will allow us to extend further the ministry of reconciliation. We want to be vessels through which Christ binds up the broken-hearted in our world. For more information, please visit our website, www.vinepcc.com, or you may call our office at 461-8580.

FBC Marriage Ministry cordially invites you to a “Tell All” Couple Time.

Friday, August 21, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the Chapel Cost: Free

• Hear about all the Couple events planned for the coming year , then head out for a night on the town!

• Be eligible to win dinner with an “in your seat” drawing! •Learn how you could attend the Marriage Retreat for FREE

• Childcare available for ages 0-6th Grade. Reservations required. (Please feed your children before attending.)

Deadline: Monday, August 17th

Contact Cindy Thompson in the Childhood Ministries Office by phone only 428-9411.

For more information, contact Kay Bugg @ [email protected]


The Christian Life Center will be hosting a Life Line Screening on Wednesday, September 30th. During this screening you can get up to five health tests performed at a great discounted rate. Life Line Screening forms are available at both Welcome Centers, as well as at the CLC Front Desk. Pre-registration is required, so don’t delay!

FYI Menu

Wednesday, August 19

Adults Taco Salad

w/Meat, Lettuce, Cheese, Beans, Tomatoes

Dessert



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #45 - August 9. 2009


This Week $63,925.39 YTD $3,594,434.70


ATTENDANCE—AUGUST 9, 2009

Sunday School



PLEASE NOTE As you know, Councill Court is closing soon and residents are moving to other locations. Because of this, we will no longer sponsor “Our Father’s Closet,” which Roger and Susan Keene have managed so faithfully for the past six years. Please find other agencies that will accept your donations of clothing and household items.

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children CREATE A FAMILY PARENTING PLAN Whitney Hopler; Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer Godly families don't just happen. They are the result of wise planning by diligent parents seeking to follow God's vision for their families. When you are proactive about directing the course of your children's development, you help them discover God's best for them. Here are some parenting principles you can use to intentionally help your children grow into the people God wants them to become: • Resist the temptation to program your children to become miniature versions of yourself. Instead, strive to help them become more and more like Jesus Christ. • Hold regular family conferences. Use them to discuss and pray about each family member's concerns. • Incorporate core attitudes into your family relationships, and use the acrostic T.R.U.E. to remember them. They are: trust, respect, understanding, and expressed love. • Make it a habit to listen to your children on a regular basis. And while you're listening to them express their thoughts and feelings, hear them with an open heart and without judgment or criticism. Then follow up by asking them additional questions to clarify what they've shared with you. • Extend grace to your children in all situations, remembering that God relates to you with grace. • Write a family vision statement. Think and pray about specific family goals that will help you all influence others for Christ and leave a godly legacy. • Discover each other's God-given talents, and help each other use them to the fullest. Use your gifts to complement each other, rather than compete with each other. Work as a team to maximize each other's strengths and minimize each other's weaknesses. • Give each of your children what he or she needs most during each developmental stage. • If you're a single parent, don't try to function as both parents. Realize that it's not possible for one person to do so, and take the pressure off yourself. Solicit mentors to contribute to your child's life as healthy role models. Adapted from In-Laws, Outlaws, and the Functional Family, copyright © 2003 by Dr. Harry R. Jackson, Jr. Published by Regal Books (from Gospel Light), www.regalbooks.com.

AT HIS FEET Intercessory Prayer Ministry Team AUTOMATED PRAYER LINE: 428-9460

The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is

right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Automated Prayer Line: 428-9460

FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE Sunday Nights (August 16-October 25) 5:00-6:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted

FOUNDATIONS taught by David Hull Who: All Ages What: “Eternal Life” an 8-week study from the Gospel of John Where: Fellowship Hall The Gospel of John gives witness to the fact that Jesus came to show us a new kind of life. This description of eternal life is a thread that runs through the Gospel and compels us to a new understanding of our own lives. On Sunday nights, our Pastor will lead us to study the Gospel of John by tracing this theme of eternal life in the great Gospel and by learning about how we can live this kind of life right now.

August 16 Introduction: What is Eternal Life? August 23 A Life that is Bright and Full August 30 Pictures of Eternal Life: Water September 6 No Evening Activities – Labor Day September 13 Pictures of Eternal Life: Bread September 20 The Way to Eternal Life September 27 Living the Life: Loving Service October 4 Living the Life: Fruitful Mission October 11 Host FMBC Blue Spring (Sanctuary) (No Foundations) October 18 Hymn Festival (Sanctuary) (No Foundations) October 25 Living the Life: Empowered Prayer

MUSIC FUNDAMENTALS taught by Elizabeth Hostetter Who: Adults (do not have to be in choir) What: Learn to read music, rhythms, key signatures, some sight-singing. Designed to develop your basic music skills. Where: Room 242 Contact Elizabeth for more information, 428-9423; [email protected] WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY/LIFE GROUP facilitated by Pam McDaniel and other class members Who: Women, all ages What: Growing Weary of Doing Good? Encouragement for Exhausted Women Where: Room 111 Cost: $10 for cost of book Using a book written by Karla Worley as our guide, this class will take a look at the struggle women often face to balance home, church, work, and life’s demands. The focus of the study is “not about prioritizing your daily planner, but about realign-ing yourself under Christ’s lordship.” You are invited to be a part of the conversation as we study scripture, support one an-other in prayer and friendship, and seek Christ in our daily walk. To sign up or for more information: Contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403; [email protected]

MARRIAGE CONSTRUCTION facilitated by Bob & Cherry Saint, Mike & Becky Soutullo, Randy & Kristi Taylor Who: Dating Couples who are considering marriage, Engaged Couples, Newlywed Couples (married 3 years or less) What: Let’s talk about marriage! Where: Room 107 When: Aug. 30-Oct. 25 Time: 6:00-8:00 PM Supper is provided. We’ll enjoy fellowship conversation around the meal table with each other. Following the meal each week, a married couple of “experienced years” will lead discussions on various marriage topics such as: communication, con-flict resolution, finances, appreciating our differences, marriage as a covenant relationship. To sign up or for more informa-tion: Contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403; [email protected] PARENT TIME taught by various members of our Ministry Staff Who: Parents of all ages What: Learning from our Ministry Staff about various development issues as we parent Where: Room 118 Over the course of eight weeks, Ministers from our Preschool through Experienced Adult area will each take one or two weeks to explore Christian parenting and changing developmental aspects.

August 16 Cindy Russell (1st through 3rd Grade) August 23 Joy Moore (Preschool) August 30 Jamie Mackey (Middle School) September 6 No Meeting (Labor Day Weekend) September 13 Cindy Russell (4th through 6th Grade) September 20 Jamie Mackey (High School) September 27 Mark Seanor (Caring for the Caregiver) October 4 No Meeting (beginning of Fall Break) October 11 No Meeting (6:30 p.m. Worship with FMBC Blue Spring in our Sanctuary) October 18 No Meeting (5:00 p.m. Bicentennial Hymn Festival) October 25 Jamie Mackey (College)


EVELYN LUCAS

Written by Ann Lifer

What can I say about Evelyn Lucas? She is a wonderful, loving, giving Christian woman. She has been a blessing in my life for the past 48 years. When we moved our letter from First Baptist Church in Atlanta to First Baptist Huntsville, she and Jack were first in line to welcome us. We were expecting our third child and as soon as she was born, Evelyn was on our doorstep with her new baby boy and gifts to enroll our new little girl in Cradle Roll. Preachers come and preachers go, but Evelyn is always there welcoming the babies each Sunday. There is no way that all the babies that have gone through the nurs-ery at First Baptist can be counted, but Evelyn was there to rock and love each one. She has watched so many of these babies grow into adults and some are now bring-ing their babies to the nursery for Evelyn to welcome each Sunday morning. My daughter still has the little pink New Testament that was awarded to her 48 years ago by the Cradle Roll Department and will always treasure it. Thanks, Evelyn, for all you have done and all you will do in the future. God has blessed so many through you.

“MR. RIP” - SHIRLEY - AND THREE-YEAR-OLDS Written by Sara Stokes

“Present, on time (actually early), and prepared” helps define “Mr. Rip” Mitchell and Shirley Davis’ years of teaching three-year-olds in Sunday School. After we received our roll for the new class each year, we tried to visit in the home of each child. “Mr. Rip” always made his visits and could recognize and welcome each child as they came to their new class. Everyone who knew Shirley appreciated how attractively she dressed, but her dress never prevented her getting down on the level of the children. Though “Mr. Rip” and Shirley both “wore many hats” they were dedicated to their commitment to teach three-year-olds. I can still see Shirley rolling out Play Dough and laughing with a child and can hear “Mr. Rip’s” soft “Yea” as he confirmed another. Sunday mornings were devoted to teaching “This is the day God made,” “Jesus loves you,” and “Love one another.” Perhaps there are some grown-ups in our church to-day who still love Sunday School because of the love they received from these two loving teachers.




Banta Factory Announcement

2009 Model Baby Banta

Model Number One: Rylee Brooke Banta Designer and Chief Engineer: Christopher James Banta Production Manager: Aimee Seanor Banta Technical Director: Dr. Cynthia Lassiter Model Release Date: July 30, 2009 at 10:47 a.m. Weight: 6 pounds, 13 ounces Length: 20 1/4 inches Proud Grandparents: Mark and Angela Seanor

Outstanding Features of this Model: Two-Lung Power…Free Squealing…Scream Line Body…Continuous Bawl

Bearings…Economical Feed…Water Cooled Exhaust…Changeable Seat Covers Special Note: The management assures the public that there will be no new models the balance of this year!!! Model on Display: 2372 Chalybe Trl. Hoover, AL 35226

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Toni & Michael Cassidy in the loss of her uncle and Aidan and Isley Cassidy in the loss of their great-uncle, Windell Stovall James & Jean Melton in the loss of his sister, Brenda Mehlferber Carter & Ethel Mitchell in the loss of his brother-in-law, Meta Brown in the loss of her brother-in-law, Marilyn & Tom Guffin in the loss of her uncle, and Sheryl Guffin in the loss of her great-uncle, Carter Sisk Nancy & George Murphree in the loss of her father, Edsel Faught Floyd & Clara Seals in the loss of his brother and Britney Tallent-Smith in the loss of her great-uncle, John Seals, Sr.

GIRL SCOUT OPEN HOUSE

Girl Scout Troop 743 will have an Open House on Sunday afternoon, August 30, from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the church parlor. This troop is for Grades Kindergarten through 3rd Grade. Come and enjoy refreshments, make a craft, and register to be a part of the troop. For more information, please call Yvette Hawkins @ 656-8766 or Christie Harmon @ 539-6408.

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

Our English as a Second Language Ministry will resume on August 20, after our summer break. We are looking for volunteers and greeters; also for people to share about their hobbies/special interests at coffee breaks, and Sunday School classes/groups willing to provide coffee break cake. There is a teacher training workshop at Shocco Springs - August 27-29. Please contact Tina Darby if you are interested in helping with our ESL Ministry.

Thanks

A thank you note has been received from Pastor Jacques Cote and Shankwood Baptist Church Family of Spencerville, Ontario. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


Four years ago this October our church began the worship service that we call First Fellowship. Meeting in the Fellowship Hall at 8:15 on Sunday mornings, this worship experience is done in a more casual setting with the musical leadership of praise bands and is enhanced by visual projection on screens in the room. Each week about 300 to 400 people gather for worship in this setting. First Fellowship has become a

significant part of the worship life of First Baptist Church. Last Sunday we had 392 people in worship with another 34 in Worship Care for a total of 426 people participating. Musical leadership in this service is very important. Someone needs to recruit and rehearse the three praise bands that give leadership to worship. Music is selected that supports the theme of worship. We began with volunteers filling these leadership roles and last summer moved into staff leadership in this area as our Ministry Intern, Lee Deutschendorf, has been the worship leader. Knowing that Lee’s tenure as Ministry Intern would come to a close this summer, the Personnel Committee discussed what needed to happen for leadership in this service after July. A recommendation went from the Personnel Committee to the Quarterly Business Meeting in February to establish a Contemporary Worship Leader position that will give leadership to the music, media, and outreach elements in the First Fellowship worship service. In addition, the Personnel Committee extended the term of Lee’s internship through December to allow time for a search. A Search Committee has been selected by the Personnel Committee to lead in this search. They will recommend a name to the Personnel Committee who will then bring the name to the church. Two members of the Personnel Committee are on the Search Committee. They are Keith Hefner, Chair of the Search Committee, and Johnnie Barnes. Five regular participants in First Fellowship were selected to serve as well. They are Wes Blake, John Dickson, Randy Taylor, Lisa Felder, and Kim Mims. Billy Orton and I serve as ex officio members of the group. For several months Billy and I have been seeking recommendations, talking to prospects, and developing a list of people for the Committee to interview. In the coming days the search committee will begin meeting regularly as we move ahead with these interviews. I am excited about the possibilities before us as we search for a leader who can help in the growth and development of First Fellowship. We ask for your prayers as we search and encourage any suggestions or recommendations that you would make to the committee.

Sunday, August 23 Sermon:

“By Faith…Abraham” “God’s Covenant”

Genesis 15:1-21

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music led by A2O


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem:

“Arise, My Soul, Arise” (Dale Wood)

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. Foundations for Life

The following classes are offered.

~ An 8-week study from the Gospel of John Taught by David Hull

This week’s session: “A Life that is Bright and Full”

~ Music FUNdamentals - Room 242 Taught by Elizabeth Hostetter

~ Parent Time - Room 118 (This session for parents of Preschoolers)

Taught by Joy Moore

~ Women’s Bible Study/Life Group Room 111

Facilitated by Pam McDaniel and other class members


Ministry Calendar

Sunday, August 23 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Student Min Open House/3rd Fl 9:15 AM Student Min Parent Mtg/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time/114 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Youth Snack/241 5:30 PM Monday, August 24 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM Tuesday, August 25 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM WEE Staff Training/Parlor 7:00 PM Wednesday, August 26 Precept Bible Study/342 9:30 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Building Comm/Parlor 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, August 27 CWJC Classes/330-333 8:30 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM WEE Parent Orientation/Chapel 5:00 PM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:00 PM Friday, August 28 Saturday, August 29 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM


Music Groups Kick Off a New Year!! Children’s Choirs meet as part of “Music and Missions” on Wednesdays at 5:25 pm, beginning this week. The Youth Choir began on August 16 and meets Sundays at 5 pm in the Choir Room. The Hallelujah Choir resumed rehearsals earlier this month and is preparing a Dinner Theatre for next month. Adult Praise Bands, the Sanctuary Choir, and the FBC Orchestra all meet weekly and provide music each Sunday for morning worship services. Find your place of service!

LCT kickoff is September 9 (the Wednesday AFTER Labor Day, as usual). What is NOT usual this year is that it is our 25th Anniversary Tree!

Our silver anniversary promises to be great.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN DEVELOPING YOUR GOD-GIVEN TALENTS AND SKILLS? Music FUNdamentals Class ……A new class began August 16, 5-6 p.m. Taught by Elizabeth Hostetter

Have you always wanted to learn to read music? Come join the fun with others who want to know more about all those lines and dots! This entry level class is for those who either do not read or would like to improve their music reading. We’ll do a variety of music skill building at each session. There will be no pressure to perform! No tests!

For any interested adults! You can do as little or as much as you want. There is no required text, no homework but there will be recommended resources for those who want to do more. Room 242, Sundays, through October 25, 5-6 p.m. on the same nights Foundations meets. MasterClass for Singers…..Our Music Ministry is again offering a special Saturday session for anyone interested in improving their singing skills. Led by one of the finest vocal teachers in the region, Dr. Ginger Beazley, the session will provide instruction in fundamental areas of singing technique. (Last year, one of the most helpful portions of the morning was having Dr. Beazley provide a voice lesson for a couple of singers in front of the whole class.) The date is still waiting final confirmation, but we feel pretty sure that this class will be offered on Saturday morning, September 19. Save the date and plan to participate! You will be glad you did. MasterClass for Pianists…..October 11, 2:00-4:00 pm……Please watch for more information in weeks ahead.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, August 26

Adults Chicken Salad

Cool & Colorful Pasta Salad Pear Salad

Lemon/Poppy Seed Muffin Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #46—August 16, 2009


This Week $58,447.61 YTD $3,652,882.31


ATTENDANCE—AUGUST 16, 2009

Sunday School



GIRL SCOUT OPEN HOUSE

Girl Scout Troop 743 will have an Open House on Sunday afternoon, August 30, from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the church parlor. This troop is for Grades Kindergarten through 3rd Grade. Come and enjoy refreshments, make a craft, and register to be a part of the troop. For more information, please call Yvette Hawkins @ 656-8766 or Christie Harmon @ 539-6408.

Preschool Ministries, Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Parenting Moment: Desire and Temptation We all wish our children would desire the right things in life and avoid tempting situations. Desires reside in the heart and can be good or bad. Psalm 37:4 tells

us “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Knowing the difference between a healthy desire and a temptation, however, can be a challenge at times, especially for kids.

A great tool in this area is your own transparency. You encounter desires and temptations every day. By talking with your children about how you deal with those situations, you can provide your kids with examples that will help them learn what to do with their own desires and temptations.

Twelve-year-old Sean asked his mom why she didn’t get angry when she was cut off on the road, giving Mom a perfect opportunity to talk about how she lets it go so she doesn’t have to harbor the anger. Mom knew that Sean needed that message because he’d been treated unfairly at school and was tempted to act out his own anger. Sean listened and pondered what his mom said. Mom watched the wheels turn in his head and knew she had just connected somewhere deep inside her son.

Don’t miss the opportunities provided by day-to-day life to point out to your children appropriate ways to deal with desires. Explain to your kids why you pursue some desires and let others go, and help your children see how those principles apply to their own lives as well. Your transparency can be a valuable guide as your children wrestle with desires. This tip comes from the book Parenting is Heart Work by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller. Dates to Remember: August 23 Parent Time: Parents of Preschoolers – Room 118, 5:00 p.m.; bring questions & suggestions – Let’s talk about Preschoolers! August 30 MOPS Sunday September 5 MOPS Fall Family Kickoff – CLC: 9 – noon, bring friends with preschool children September 10 Mommy Time for Mothers of children 2 and under (reservations by 9/7/09 required for childcare) September 14 MOPS September 27 Family Dedication Sunday (letters mailed soon) September 28 MOPS

September 11-13 at Camp ToknowHim For students in Grades 7-12

Cost: $85 per student (plus multi -family discounts) through August 30 — $100 after this date

This Sunday, August 23

9:15 AM—Open House/3rd Floor 9:30 AM—Parent Meeting/Chapel

We have changed the time of our Wednesday nights for this year. We are rejoining the middle and high school groups. Younger students can glean from the example of the older students. The older students can take some of the energy from the younger students. We will continue using the name LIFTOFF for our gathering. The Student Ministry space will be open from 4:00 to 8:00 PM.

Prayer Breakfast Thursday—August 20

6:25-7:30 AM FBC Fellowship Hall

Featuring speaker Siran Stacy

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY

“He Will Come to Us Like the Rain - DOWNPOUR” Written by Pastor James McDonald

12–week workbook and DVD study

This study will look at people in God’s Word and people of our “recent past” that have been brought to personal revival. Such people are King Josiah, King Hezekiah, King David, Jonah, Peter, and the first 120 followers of Christ. Also, we will touch on Jonathan Edwards and the First Great Awakening, the revival in Scotland, the Cana-dian revival, the revival in Wales, the Moravian revival and the Shantung revival.

Study Begins: Tuesday, August 25

Led by Donna Lehman Room 342, First Baptist Church, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Childcare is available. Call Donna, 536-9003, if interested.

FBC Marriage Ministry cordially invites you to a “Tell All” Couple Time.

Friday, August 21, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the Chapel Cost: Free

• Hear about all the Couple events planned for the coming year , then head out for a night on the town!

• Be eligible to win dinner with an “in your seat” drawing! •Learn how you could attend the Marriage Retreat for FREE

• Childcare available for ages 0-6th Grade. Reservations required. (Please feed your children before attending.)

Contact Cindy Thompson in the Childhood Ministries Office

by phone only 428-9411. For more information, contact Kay Bugg @ [email protected]

The Hallelujah Choir of First Baptist Church, Huntsville presents

Dinner Theatre “Jonesville High School Golden Jubilee”

(Home of the Jack Rabbits)

Thursday and Friday evenings, September 17 and 18, 2009 Fellowship Hall

Dinner at 6:00 p.m. - Play to follow Cost: $15

Tickets may be purchased on Wednesday nights in Fellowship Hall

and on Sunday mornings at the East Entrance.

TESTIMONIES ABOUT PEOPLE WHO INFLUENCED OUR LIVES

Bonnie Tondera Written by Patty Atherton

As a young mother with three children under school age I was in need of a Mentor and I found her in Bonnie Tondera. Not only was Bonnie one of the best Sunday School teachers I ever had the privilege of hearing, she was also one who would listen when you needed a shoulder. I remember many times, just when I needed a visitor, Bonnie would call and come by the house to visit with me. Most of the times she came bearing her famous bread and butter pickles that she had made from her own garden and I still use her recipe for those tasty pickles. Not only did Bonnie minister to me as a young adult she has continued to teach me how to deal with adversity. Bonnie has taught classes on “Death and Dying” and through that class I learned how to better minister to those who were deal-ing with grief. Also, she taught me how to deal with the different stages of grief in my own family as I have lost loved ones. Bonnie has been an inspiration to me as I have seen her go through serious health issues in her own family. Her faith in God and the strength she has shown through heart breaking situations continue to teach me, by example, how to deal with adversities. I will always be grateful to God for placing Bonnie Tondera in my life at First Baptist Church.

JD KIRKLAND

Written by Barbara Kirkland

I believe my husband, JD Kirkland, made an impact on the life of our church and helped make it a great church. We moved to Huntsville in 1952 and joined the church in July. Almost immediately, JD was asked to be a Sunday School superintendent and form a new Young Adult Sunday School Department as many new people were coming to Huntsville. He was asked to enlist the teachers and department officers. There was not sufficient room at the church so we met at the elementary school on Clinton Street. We had classes in the school, in the Russell Erskine Hotel (including the barber shop), at the church and other locations. The department was a great success and grew like a weed. After a few years in that job, JD was asked to become the General Officer of the Sunday School as Associate Superintendent for Training. In that job, he was responsible for establishing and executing the study course book program for the church. The program become highly successful, with hundreds of books read and hundreds of diplomas issued to members of our church. Our church became one of the top ten churches in the Southern Baptist Convention in number of awards for books read and diplomas issued.

He then became a part of the Sunday School records team and became responsible for entering all the Sunday School attendance records each week. He assisted in providing the department their records and compiling the data as they returned the boxes. He provided the Sunday School superintendent and the pastor the attendance each week and for many years announced the information in the morning worship service. His smiling face and greeting was usually the first person the directors saw each Sunday. Although Sunday School started at 9:00 a.m., JD was at the window by 8:00 to give out boxes for those that were early. He continued to perform his record room duties until the church staff assumed the task in 2007. He was given a plaque by the church for 50 years of service in 2007. In addition to those efforts, he served as a training union director for several years. He served five years on the finance committee of the church.

JD served in the Navy during World War II and again during the Korean War. He worked at Redstone Arsenal, serving as Chief Engineer of a major air defense missile program that was used by the Army, Marine Corps, and 29 allied nations.

He has been a faithful member of our church all these years. He has made a difference in the life of our church through his service.




Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Elizabeth Broadway-Sheible 1020 Wright Dr SE Huntsville AL 35802-1107 Caleb Perry 2007 Butler Rd New Market AL 35761-8828 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of former FBC member, Barbara Chandler, especially to her husband, Lynn Chandler Former staff member Sammy & Carol Gilbreath in the loss of their twin grandbabies Wayne & Jo O’Neal in the loss of his brother, Jim O’Neal Vic & Beth Robbins in the loss of his aunt, Yvonne Copeland Family and friends of our member, Sheila Smock, especially to her husband, Werner Smock, and her sons, James and Michael Smock Kitty & Jack Sisco in the loss of her sister, Hazel Bragg Sisco

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Kitty Johnson and Sue Ellen Thompson Sisson. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Katherine Hoppe-McQueen invites

the FBC Congregation and Friends

to a Harp Recital

Sunday Afternoon, August 30th

Two thousand and nine 2:00 p.m.

FBC Chapel

October 30, 2008


Anne Lamott has written the following in her book, Traveling Mercies: When [my pastor Veronica] was about 7, her best friend got lost one day. The little girl ran up and down the streets of the big town where they lived, but she couldn't find a single landmark. She was very frightened. Finally a policeman stopped to help her. He put her in the passenger seat of his car, and they drove around until finally she saw her church. She pointed it out to the policeman, and then she told him firmly, "You could let me out now. This is my church, and I can always find my way home from here." And that is why I have stayed so close to mine - because no matter how bad I am feeling, how lost or lonely or frightened, when I see the faces of the people at my church, and hear their tawny voices, I can always find my way home.

I love that vision of the church. Church is the place where “you can let me out” because “I can always find my way home from here.” Will you let your church be the place where you can be “let out?” Maybe that means you can be “let out” to worship, or to serve, or to ask questions, or to find answers. As you make your way through the journey of life, take time to be “let out” at church. Stop and stay for awhile. If you do, then you will be able “to find your way home from here.” That may mean that you find your way home to stronger relationships, to deeper connection with God, to greater under-standing about who you are and what God has called you to be. It may mean that you find your way home to grace and forgiveness that leads to new beginnings filled with hope. Take time to be let out at church . . . and find your way home.

Sunday, August 30 Sermon: “By Faith...Abraham”

“God’s Timing” - Genesis 17:1-16

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music led by Amanda Allen


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Handbell Duet by Jim Rogers and Jane Orton

Music from FBC Orchestra Sanctuary Choir Anthem—

Thou Gracious God, Whose Mercy Lends (arr. Wilberg)

FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE - 5:00 P.M.

This Sunday Evening ~ Study from the Gospel of John “Pictures of Eternal Life: Water”

Taught by David Hull - Fellowship Hall

~ Music FUNdamentals - Taught by Elizabeth Hostetter Room 242

~ Parent Time - Room 114

Taught by Jamie Mackey (For Middle School Parents)

~ Women’s Bible Study/Life Group - Room 111 Facilitated by Pam McDaniel and other class members

~ Marriage Construction - Room 107 - 6:00 p.m. New class begins - goes through October 25

Facilitated by Bob and Cherry Saint, Mike and Becky Soutullo, and Randy and Kristi Taylor

More details on page 3 of this newsletter.


DEACON NOMINEES Thank you, church members, for your diligence in nominating men and women to serve as Deacons in our church. Photographs and biographies will be forthcoming.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, August 30 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Girl Scouts Open House/Parlor 1:00—3:00 PM Katie Hoppe-McQueen Harp Recital 2:00 PM Chapel Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR 5:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time (Parents of Students) 5:00 PM Room 114 Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Gospel of John 5:00 PM Bible Study/FH Youth Choir Snack/241 6:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM Monday, August 31 Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM New Systems Training/Parlor 4:30 PM Tuesday, September 1 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Men’s BSF Leaders/342 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Wednesday, September 2 Precept Bible Study/342 9:30 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Committee/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, September 3 Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:00 PM Friday, September 4 Driessnack-Morgan Reh/Sanct 4:30 PM Saturday, September 5 MOPS/CLC 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM Driessnack-Morgan Wedding/Sanct 4:30 PM

Katherine Hoppe-McQueen

invites the FBC Congregation and Friends to a Harp Recital

Sunday Afternoon, August 30th Two thousand and nine

2:00 p.m. - FBC Chapel

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach First Baptist Church Food Drive Again we are sponsoring a food drive to help two very important ministries…. Huntsville Assistance Program and Jehovah Jireh House. You will remember that HAP is a group of 58 churches that work together to provide utility, rent, a food pantry, and other assistance to our community. The Jehovah Jireh House is a resident home for 18 mentally-challenged adults which includes two of our church members. Our schedule for the drive will be to pass out the “HAP SACKS” after each service this Sunday, August 30. Then on the two following Sundays, September 6th and 13th, you may bring the sacks back filled with food items and place downstairs in the Fellowship Hall and upstairs in the “big blue box.” The Emmaus Cluster Interested in the Emmaus Walk? Plan to attend the Emmaus Cluster at Latham United Methodist Church on September 12, 2009. Everyone is invited. The cost is $18 for lunch and the training materials. You may contact Bill Glover at [email protected] or call 256-536-3087 for registration or more information. Project Share One of the easiest ways to help people in our community is to participate in Project Share each month. It provides utility help for the elderly and disabled in our area. Simply add $1 or more when you pay your utility bill and check Project Share on your bill. They have reported being low on funds this summer due to more need with the economic slowdown. This is a great way to help our community.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU THURSDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 3

CLC - 6:00 P.M. BRING A COVERED DISH TO SHARE.

For information, call Myra Haythorn at 837-3107.

The Hallelujah Choir of First Baptist Church, Huntsville presents

A Dinner Theatre “Jonesville High School Golden Jubilee”

(Home of the Jack Rabbits)

Thursday and Friday evenings, September 17 and 18, 2009 Fellowship Hall

Dinner at 6:00 p.m. - Play to follow Cost: $15

Tickets may be purchased on Wednesday nights in Fellowship Hall and on Sunday mornings at the East Entrance.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Installation of Officers

Menu Grilled Chicken, Coin Corn, Calico Salad, Roll, Dessert

For reservations,

call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107.

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern FBC MOPS Family Kickoff Event

Every mother of a preschooler and her family is invited to attend the FBC MOPS Family Kickoff Event on Saturday, September 5. Drop in at the CLC any time between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon to have fun and learn more about MOPS. There will be activities for mom, dad, and the children, so come prepared to have fun!

SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, September 11, at the CLC. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up at 828-2700 or [email protected].

Life Line Screening The Christian Life Center will host a Life Line Screening on Wednesday, September 30. During this screening you can get up to five health tests performed at a great discounted rate. Life Line Screening forms are available at both Welcome Centers, as well as at the CLC Front Desk. Pre-registration is required, so don’t delay!

Holiday Closing The Christian Life Center will be closed on

Monday, September 7th, in observance of Labor Day.

FYI Menu

Wednesday, September 2

Adults Pot Roast with Gravy

Mashed Potatoes Green Peas

Roll Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #47—August 23, 2009


This Week $78,557.37 YTD $3,731,439.68


ATTENDANCE - AUGUST 23, 2009

Sunday School



MARRIAGE CONSTRUCTION Are you:

A DATING COUPLE who is considering marriage?

AN ENGAGED COUPLE? A NEWLYWED COUPLE married less

than 3 years? Then this class is for you!

Sunday Nights, August 30 – October 25

6:00 – 8:00 PM - Room 107 Supper provided.

Facilitated by Bob and Cherry Saint, Mike and Becky Soutullo,

and Randy and Kristi Taylor To sign up, contact the Adult Ministries

Office, 428-9403 or [email protected]

Cost: $25


First Grade Bible Presentation Sunday, September 13

9:25 a.m. Chapel

Parents’ Night Out Friday, October 2

Deadline for reservations: September 20 Birth through 6th Grade

Main building, Chapel entrance $5 per child

Fall Festival at Tate’s Farm Saturday, October 24

6:00-9:00 p.m. Cost: $5 per person

(23 months and under Free) or $20 family

Tickets go on sale Sunday, September 27. Deadline is Sunday, October 18.

OPEN HOUSE GIRL SCOUT TROOP 743

Sunday Afternoon, August 30 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. - Parlor

This troop is for Kindergarten through Third Grade.

Join us for refreshments, make a craft, and register.




This week… Live a Life of Purpose

As you go out into the world this week being the salt and light, doing the task God has called you, remember these things. • Allow God to guide you…Ask, seek, and knock. Life is always good, but sometimes tough. Life is not always easy, so begin now to develop a willingness to turn to God. • Know yourself…Know your strengths and weaknesses. Build your dreams and relationships accordingly. • Trust your experience…trust that God has led you in a way which He has prepared you for…the path you are now traveling. • Stretch your mind…Draw strength and gain purpose from scriptures and devotional classics. • Cherish the privileges which God has given you. • Give those who know you the best--reason to love you the most…Do your best whatever it takes and don’t cut corners. • Accept forgiveness and be a forgiving person…Learn from your mistakes. Know that your failures do not define who you are and certainly not who you can become. Determine, with God’s help, to live as a forgiven and forgiving person. • Remember you are God’s “dwelling place”…Be clean…physically, morally, and mentally. • Do not drift away from Christ or the church.

Know that as you desperately seek God, God is passionately seeking you. As you strive for many different things in life, don’t leave Christ and the church out of the equation. Find time in your daily living for Christ and in your weekly schedule for the church. This charge was given to FBC Huntsville students Sunday May 20, 2001 and it is one that is still good for us today.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Marian Ford 105 Autumn Spring Gurley, AL 35748 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Rita & Jerry Cobbs in the loss of her father and Garrett, Joel, and Ethan Cobbs in the loss of their grandfather, James Hutcheson Pat & Roy Heifner in the loss of her aunt, Frances Reaves Karen & Nelson Parker in the loss of her mother and Emily and Matthew Parker in the loss of their grandmother, Christine Gregg Nell Parsons in the loss of her husband, Col. Robert A. Parsons

LCT Kickoff is September 9. Our silver anniversary promise

to be great. Join us !!!

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Charles M. Davis, Viola VanOrden, and Linda Davis. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


Open my eyes, that I may see,

Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me

The words of this old hymn took on new meaning last Sunday. Our 10:30 worship service was broadcast in High Definition for the first time. In fact, we believe that this was the first HD broadcast ever to originate in the city of Huntsville. (We receive HD broadcasts from the networks, but so far we are the only local broadcast that begins in High Definition.) The installation of our equipment is not yet complete. Two more cameras will soon be installed. In addition, there are still some “bugs” to be worked out on the technical side of the new equipment. But a new day has begun! We can rejoice and be glad in it! The great news is that we have taken a large step of faith into the future. We have made a significant investment in the technology that will allow us to share the Gospel through television and the Internet in the highest quality possible. I am very excited about these new developments and look forward to the way that God will use this enhancement of our broadcast abilities for the work of the Kingdom. Please pray that these broadcasts will be used to reach people for Christ in ways that we have never been able to do before.

Open my ears, that I may hear, Voices of truth Thou sendest clear

“Can you hear me now?” Do you remember the question asked by the man in the cell phone commercials? That is a good question for me to ask you now. If you worship in the Sanctuary – can you hear me now? The installation of our new audio system is now complete and the results have been outstanding. People have told me that they are hearing better now. The reports are coming from all parts of the room. We will continue to fine tune the equipment, but I am so grateful that the audio quality in the room is now greatly improved. Special thanks go to Jack Lucas, Steve Jones, and Dru Murphree for the hard work they have put into the installation and launching of this new equipment. Countless hours have been put in by these men who have worked with professional installation teams to ensure the best beginning possible. Please join me in saying “thanks” to them when you see them around the church.

Sunday, September 6 HAP Food Collection Day

Please remember to return your filled “HAP” Sacks.

Sermon: “By Faith...Abraham”

“God’s Provision” Genesis 22:1-19

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by Lee and Britney Deutschendorf

Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem—

“I Want Jesus to Walk with Me” (arr. Shelton)

with Dale Hutchens, saxophone Nancy Morton, piano offertory

No evening service or activities in observance of Labor Day Weekend.

December 18, 2008 September 3, 2009

The Hallelujah Choir

of First Baptist Church, Huntsville presents

A Dinner Theatre

“Jonesville High School Golden Jubilee” (Home of the Jack Rabbits)

Thursday and Friday evenings,

September 17 and 18, 2009 Fellowship Hall

Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Play to follow

Cost: $15 Tickets may be purchased

on Wednesday nights in Fellowship Hall and on Sunday mornings

at the East Entrance.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, September 6 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:15-10:30 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM NO EVENING SERVICE OR ACTIVITIES Monday, September 7 Labor Day - Offices Closed Tuesday, September 8 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM Hallelujah Choir D.T. Rehearsal/FH 2:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Contemporary Worship Comm/Parlor 6:00 PM HAP/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM Wednesday, September 9 Ladies’ Tea Comm/242 9:00 AM Precept Bible Study/342 9:30 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir D.T. Rehearsal/FH 10:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Cradle Roll Mtg/Off Campus 11:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/242 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct, 141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR/East Entrance 7:00 PM LCT Kickoff Thursday, September 10 Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM WEE Grandparents’ Picnic/Ct’yard 9:30 AM FBC Stitchers/CLC 1:00 PM Hallelujah Choir D.T. Reh/FH 1:30 PM “Daybreak” Reh./FH 5:00 PM FBC Men’s Fellowship/CLC 6:00 PM Friday, September 11 BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM MOPS Steering Comm/Library 9:00 AM WEE Grandparents’ Picnic/Ct’yard 9:30 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Saturday, September 12 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM


Our Living Christmas Tree Kickoff is Wednesday, September 9, at 7:00 p.m.

in the Choir Room. We will introduce the music for this

25th Anniversary, and then enjoy delicious snacks and a time of fellowship.

If you’ve ever considered singing on the tree, this is the year !!

A NEW ADDITION Have you noticed the “new” organ in the East hallway? If not, take a close look. This circa 1876 Shoninger Organ is probably the first organ used by Enon Baptist Church. After moving to the city of Huntsville in 1861, the church voted ten years later to acquire an organ. A few months after the young, new pastor, Benjamin West Bussey, had come, he made the motion in an April 5, 1871 meeting that a committee of two (one being himself) “assist the choir in arranging the organ.” Elder Bussey’s wife, Anna Hill, known to be a talented organist, vocalist, and active in the music program of the church, was probably influential in the choice and could possibly have also been the first church organist. She died in 1876 so it is likely the organ was secured between 1873-1876. The patents on the interior labels go through 1873. The company's founder, Bernard Shoninger (1828-1910), an immigrant from Bavaria who settled in New Haven in the 1850s, came to America with only $14.40. His family was a prominent Jewish family in New England and Germany. Soon his company was a leading manufacturer of pianos and organs and held over thirty patents. In the 1880s his business was international and among the leading manufacturers of pianos and organs. Having an organ put the church on the cutting edge of church music of the time. It was probably used in both the “Bell Tower” and “Gothic Church” locations. The minutes do not mention “organ” again until 1888 when funds were donated for the organ and then in 1899 when a pipe organ fund was begun. After the church’s move to the current location, church historian Mrs. Elizabeth "Bessie" Ruth Pettus (William E.) Spragins, took the organ to her house for preservation. In 1968, she donated it to Samford University Special Collections, Birmingham. As of August 24, 2009, the organ is on "permanent loan" to FBC from Samford University.

Administrative Staff News

Reta Tumlin began as our full-time Accounting Assistant July 27. Reta is responsible for posting contributions, counting receipts, paying bills and managing our safekeeping files. Her technical gifts as well as her attention to detail and confidentiality are already

appreciated by those who have met and worked with her. Reta and her family (husband Tony and daughter Beth) are active members at Locust Grove Baptist Church. Feel free to stop by the Finance Office and welcome her to the staff at First Baptist Church.

Mona Isom is resigning effective Friday, September 11. She has served First Baptist Church in the Music Ministry Office for almost seven years. Mona has provided faithful support to Billy Orton, Elizabeth Hostetter, Amanda Allen and Lee Deutschendorf, covering all ages in the Music Ministry. She has typically been the first person we talk to on the phone when we call the Music Ministry Office and has been responsible for many different facets of music ministry in the life of our church. As you see Mona over the next few days, share your thanks to her for her service at First Baptist Church.

FYI

Menu Wednesday, September 9

Adults

Chicken Tetrazzini Tossed Salad

Garlic Roll Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 48 - August 30, 2009


This Week $51,186.57 YTD $3,782,626.25


ATTENDANCE August 30, 2009

Sunday School



Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool SAVE THE DATE! NOVEMBER 7 John Rosemond is coming to town! FBC and Huntsville High are co-sponsoring this event which will be housed at Huntsville High School. Watch the Messenger for more information because we will be selling tickets at a discounted price. PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT Friday, October 2 Deadline for reservations: September 20 Birth through 6 th Grade Main building, preschool entrance $5 per child Call 428-9411 for reservations

FALL FESTIVAL AT TATE’S FARM Saturday, October 24 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Cost $5.00 per person (23 months and under FREE) or $20 family Tickets go on sale Sunday, September 27. Deadline Is Sunday, October 18.

WANTED

VINTAGE AND PERIOD DRESSES 1809-2009

Perhaps you have already heard about the Ladies’ Tea and Fashion Show that is planned for Sunday, November 15, in our Fellowship Hall. As part of our year-long bicentennial celebration, this event will feature vintage and period dresses, modeled by some of our very own church members. Dresses not worn by the models will be on display throughout the room. In preparation for the fashion show, we are asking that you look through your attic, your closets, your old cedar chest, to see if you have any vintage or reproduction clothing (women and children’s) that could be used. A sampling of all the time periods, 1809-2009, is desired. Shown below are the dates and times for the clothing to be brought to the church where a committee of ladies will receive and record your clothing.

Wednesday, September 9 9:00 -11:00 a.m. and 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Room 242

and

Wednesday, September 16 9:00 -11:00 a.m. and 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Room 118 Please write on a 3x5 card your name, phone number and email address. Give a short description of the item along with the period it represents. Perhaps it was worn by a family member; we want to know its history. If you have a picture of the item please bring it; if not we will make one. We anticipate an excellent response and plan to use as many dresses as possible. For more information, call Joyce Freisen, 881-7010.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Food Drive for Huntsville Assistance Program - Sundays, September 6 and 13

Living Christmas Tree Kickoff - Wednesday, September 9

Bring vintage and period dresses (for November 15 Fashion Show)

Wednesdays, September 9 and 16

Student Fall Retreat - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, September 11-13

Hallelujah Choir Dinner Theatre - Thursday and Friday, September 17 and 18

Election of Deacons - Sunday, September 20

Life Line Screening - CLC - Wednesday, September 30

Parents’ Night Out - Friday, October 2

Alabama WMU Day of Prayer - Tuesday, October 6

Bicentennial Hymn Festival — “What Were We Singing!?” - Sunday, October 18

Fall Festival - Tate’s Farm - Saturday, October 24

All Saints’ Day Orchestra Concert - Sunday, November 1

Ladies’ Tea and Fashion Show - Sunday, November 15

Caribbean Mission Project - November 21-28

Living Christmas Tree Presentations - December 17, 18, 19, and 20

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Installation of Officers

Menu Grilled Chicken, Coin Corn, Calico Salad,

Roll, Dessert

For reservations, call Myra Haythorn, 837-3107.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 35, September 3, 2009


For the Men: FOOD AND FOOTBALL!

Thursday, September 10

6:00 PM @ FBC CLC

GA Tech vs. Clemson Game Steak on the grill

Invite your friends! — Cost - $5.00

RSVP to [email protected] by Wednesday September 9.

FBC Stitchers!!

Whether you are doing hand-work or want to bring your sewing machine, come and have the joy of

stitching with other stitchers. We begin on Thursday, September 10, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Patio Room of our Christian Life Center. You may contact the CLC for more information at 428-9445.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Ryan Buford 353 Woodmont Dr Union Grove AL 35175-7868 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, James Cummings, especially to his wife, Claudell Cummings Pat and Roy Heifner in the loss of her aunt, Lisa Andrews in the loss of her great aunt, and Brittany, Brandon, and Bryan Andrews in the loss of their great, great aunt, Frances Reaves Family and friends of our member Robert Parsons, especially to his wife Nell Parsons James Potts in the loss of his father, Don Potts Family and friends of former FBC member, Gene Smith, especially to his wife, Joan Smith

Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from Nell Parsons and family, Kitty and Jack Sisco, and Jo and Wayne O’Neal. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

DEACON NOMINEES

Thank you, for your diligence in nominating men and women to serve as Deacons in our church. These persons have agreed, if elected, to serve a three-year term as Deacon. Election of Deacons will be Sunday, September 20.

Want to stay informed about FBC Men’s Ministry events?

Join our Facebook Group at FBCHSVMen,

Contact [email protected] and

ask to be added to the Men’s email listserve.

October 30, 2008


For the last four Sunday mornings we have been learning about the faith of Abraham. “By faith” he set out on a journey to follow the call of God. That led to incredible

promises and wonderful provisions. There are lessons for each one of us in this great story of the relationship between God and Abraham. We can live by faith. Will we? Now we turn our focus to Abraham’s great-grandson. Joseph was the son of Jacob who was the son of Isaac. His life began with great privilege. Along the way he endured tremendous hardships. With each blow that he suffered, each betrayal that he experienced, and each detour that he had to take, he came to understand how God works for good even in the tough times of life. This is a lesson that we all need to learn. Now is a time that we need to be reminded of the story of Joseph. I invite you to join us on Sunday mornings as we learn from one who lived a hard life and found God walking with him along the way. There are lessons here for all of us to learn as we move into God’s future “by faith.”

“By Faith . . . Joseph” September 13 “Abandoned” Genesis 37 September 20 “Tested” Genesis 39 September 27 “Trapped” Genesis 40-41 October 4 “Promoted” Genesis 41:46-50:26 Celebration of the Lord’s Supper Joseph became a great leader. As we learn about this leader, take some time to think about leadership in the life of our church. I encourage you to look over the nominees for Deacons that you will find in this Messenger. On September 20, we will elect twelve people to be servant leaders in our church. Please give prayerful consideration to this very important selection and then come prepared to cast your vote on September 20.

Sunday, September 13 2nd “HAP” Sack Collection Day

Sermon: “By Faith...Joseph”

“Abandoned” Genesis 37



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. FBC Orchestra — “On That Beautiful Shore”

featuring Jana Clark on Tin Whistle Clarion Winds will also play.

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Foundation Classes

6:00 p.m. - Marriage Construction Class Room 107


LEARN MORE ABOUT FBC

Meet FBC! is an ongoing class for young and median adults (average age 20s -50s) that meets each Sunday to meet with our ministerial staff and learn more about FBC. The class is predominately comprised of adults new to the church; however, if you are not “new new” but are interested in hearing more from a particular minister, please join us in Room 241A on any of the remaining dates and together we’ll learn more about the minis-tries of our church!

Our Remaining Schedule this Session Sept. 13 – Mark Seanor, Minister to Experienced Adults 55+ Sept. 20 – Amanda Allen, Children’s Music & Missions Minister and Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music & Organist Sept. 27 – Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions & Outreach Oct. 4 – Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Oct. 11 – Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students Oct. 18 – Jud Reasons, Associate Pastor

Ministry Calendar Sunday, September 13 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM 1st Grade Bible Presentation/Chapel 9:00 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Building Committee/Parlor 2:30 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time/114 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Bible Study/FH 5:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM

Monday, September 14 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Roundtable/242E 12:00 PM Hallelujah Choir DT Reh/FH 1:30 PM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, September 15 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir DT Reh/FH 10:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM

Wednesday, September 16 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ladies’ Tea/Fashion Show Comm/242 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Hallelujah Choir DT Reh/FH 10:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Ladies’ Tea/Fashion Show Comm/118 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Missions Strategy/Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Building Comm/Parlor 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct/141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, September 17 Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir DT Reh/FH,140,141 11:30 AM Dinner Theatre/FH 6:00 PM Forum/107 6:00 PM

Friday, September 18 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir DT Reh/FH,140,141 8:00 AM Dinner Theatre/FH 6:00 PM

Saturday, September 19 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM Master Class for Singers/Choir Room10:00 AM


E2E

Easter to Easter Challenge 2010 Watch for more information this month on the Easter to Easter Challenge – build one relationship with one person or family from Easter to Easter.


Parents’ Night Out Friday, October 2

Deadline for reservations: September 20 Birth through 6th Grade

Main building, Chapel Entrance $5 per child

Fall Festival at Tate’s Farm Saturday, October 24

6:00-9 p.m. Cost: $5 per person

(23 mos. and under Free) or $20 family

Tickets go on sale Sunday, September 27 Deadline is Sunday, October18

SCHOOL START-UP CRASH COURSE By Dr. Brad Schwall Routine *Establish a routine for morning and evening * Prepare for the next day the night before * Ensure good night’s sleep and good breakfast Homework * Establish a homework time and space * Be involved * Guide your child to plan ahead for special projects * Show your child how to plan and be responsible, and then, step back Parent/Teacher Relationships * Be supportive * Keep lines of communication open * Be appreciative * Volunteer at your child’s school Extra-curricular Activities * Set limits on commitments * Reserve time for family time

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, September 11th at the CLC. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected].

The Christian Life Center will host a Life Line Screening on Wednesday, September 30th. During this screening you can get up to 5 health tests performed at a great discounted rate. Life Line Screening forms are available at both Welcome Centers, as well as at the CLC Front Desk. Pre-registration is required, so don’t delay!

WANTED

VINTAGE AND PERIOD DRESSES 1809-2009

FYI

Menu Wednesday, September 16

Adults

Lasagna - Green Salad Roll

Dessert

Salad




Attendance numbers and Financial Report not available

because of holiday.

DEACON ELECTION WILL BE

NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

MUSIC MINISTRY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Our Music Ministry continues its series of MasterClasses with a special session for persons interested in singing— MasterClass for Singers, Saturday, September 19, 10 AM Taught by Dr. Ginger Beazley A great opportunity to learn some fundamentals related to singing, such as posture and body alignment, breathing, tone quality and range, etc.

You will soon be seeing more information about the Ladies’ Tea and Fashion Show to be held on Sunday, November 15. As part of our year-long Bicentennial Celebration, this event will feature a fashion show of vintage and period dresses (1809-2009) modeled by some of our very own FBC ladies. Dresses not worn will be on display in the room. In preparation for the fashion show, we are asking that you look through your attic, your closets, your old cedar chest, to see if you have any vintage or reproduction clothing (women and children’s) that could be used. A sampling of all the time peri-ods, 1809-2009, is desired. Shown below is the remaining date for the clothing to be brought to the church where a committee of ladies will receive and record your clothing.

Wednesday, September 16 9:00 -11:00 a. m. - Room 242 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Room 118

Please write on a 3x5 card your name, phone number and email address. Give a short description of the item along with the period it represents. Perhaps it was worn by a family member; we want to know its history. If you have a picture of the item please bring it; if not we will make one. We anticipate an excellent response and plan to use as many dresses as possible. For more information, call Joyce Freisen, 881-7010.

BICENTENNIAL THROWS

Our First Baptist Boy Scout Troop #70 is selling throws (54”x 60”) commemorating the Bicentennial of our church. The cost is $50 and they will be on sale until October 30. A sample will be displayed on Wednesday nights in the Fellow-ship Hall during September and is on permanent display in Room 107. You may order the throws on Wednesdays or by calling Rebecca Dean at 837-5235. Payment is required with your order and the throws will be available in early December. These would be perfect Christmas gifts for family members that have moved away or any member of our church. Pro-ceeds will go toward camping equipment and other expenses for Troop #70.

Called Business Meeting Wednesday Night

September 23

For the purpose of voting on Nominating Committee Recommendations and

Budget Presentation/Discussion.




First Baptist Church, Huntsville Experienced

Adults

Helping Adults 55+ Find Significance for their Lives

thru…

A Sunday School “Life” Group

We believe this takes place best with a group of friends. Sunday School classes are Life Groups that are arranged by Life Stages. Sunday School LIFE Groups are: 1. Consistently Learning to be more like Christ. 2. Effectively Involving themselves in ministry. 3. Deeply Fellowshipping with others 4. Intentionally Evangelizing those who don't know Christ. Do you belong to a Sunday School Life Group? If not then

Join us this Sunday! As we together learn about…

Loving God, Serving Others, and how to Grow as Disciples

This Sunday, September 13, is the deadline to purchase tickets to The Hallelujah Choir‘s

Dinner Theatre “Jonesville High School Golden Jubilee”

(Home of the Jack Rabbits) Thursday and Friday evenings,

September 17 and 18 Tickets will be available at the East Entrance Sunday morning.

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Charles & Teddie Carter in the loss of his cousin, Virginia Giech Tom & Marilyn Guffin in the loss of his cousin, Laura Kendall Richard and Ginger White in the loss of his mother, Alice White. OUR NEWEST Layla Elise Williams, daughter of Lee and Mallory Williams, 704 Hines Street, Athens, AL 35611, born August 10, 2009. Proud great-grandmother is Velma Mitchum.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Sammy and Carol Gilbreath, Lib Howell, Billie Robertson, Harris Home for Children (for school supplies and backpacks), Claudell Cummings, and Susan and Roger Keene. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Choose Life Walk for Life

Annual Fundraiser Come join the walk and ask

family, friends, and work associates to sponsor you.

Saturday

September 19

For more information call Myrna Boyd at 461-0032.

ALABAMA WMU

DAY OF PRAYER

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2009

9:30 A.M. Room 118

October 30, 2008


The powerful story of Joseph invites us into worship this Sunday morning. My message is “Tested” from Genesis 39. Joseph was

placed in a difficult situation. He was tested, but he was found faithful. Let’s talk about what that means for you and me. Worship will have several special features this Sunday that I want to draw to your attention:

Sunday will be Deacon election. In both morning services, our members will have a chance to select the kind of people who are servant leaders in our church. Please be prayerful about the twelve names that you will select to be Deacons in our church. Look over the insert from the Messenger last week and select people that you believe will be the best Deacons for our congregation.

Sunday is also Gideon Sunday. In each morning service Kevin Beal,

the President of the Alabama/N.W. Florida Gideons International Association will share a presentation and we will receive an offering to support the ministry of the Gideons. This ministry places Bibles all around the world so that millions of people can learn of the good news of God’s love.

Finally, be aware that there will be a film crew present on Sunday morning to record portions of both worship services in addition to some pictures of people sharing fellowship together. This will become a video that will be used in some web based advertising for our church. We hope to share some of our Sunday morning experiences with those who will find us in the Yellow Pages on the web.

Read Genesis 39 before you come on Sunday. Prepare your heart to hear what God is saying to us. Come . . . let us worship together!

Sunday, September 20 “Gideon Sunday”

Gideon speaker will be Kevin Beal, President of the Alabama/NW Florida

Gideons International Association

Dr. Hull’s Sermon: “By Faith….Joseph”

“Tested”

Genesis 39

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by Daybreak


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music from Sanctuary Choir and FBC Orchestra

Solo by Terry Jarnagin

Sunday Evening

Foundation Classes - 5:00 p.m.

Marriage Construction Class 6:00 p.m. - Room 107


DEACON ELECTION

This Sunday, September 20, during each morning worship service, church members will vote on 12 persons to serve as Deacons for a three-year term. Please carefully read the instructions and information included on your ballot. Absentee ballots are available in the Church Office. These must be turned in by 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, September 20 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Eagle Crt of Honor/Chapel,Parlor 3:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR, Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time/114 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Bible Study/FH 5:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM

Monday, September 21 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM

Tuesday, September 22 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM WEE Pictures/Chapel 8:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 6:30 PM

Wednesday, September 23 WEE Pictures/Chapel 8:00 AM Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM History Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra Reh/Sectionals/Sanct 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, September 24 Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM FBC Stitchers/CLC 1:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Bldrs B Coed Class Fellowship/118 6:00 PM Forum/107 6:00 PM LCT Bonus Reh/Sanct 6:30 PM

Friday, September 25 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM WEE Ministry/CLC 9:30 AM

Saturday, September 26 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM 50th Wedd.Anniversary/Parlor 2:00 PM Master Class for Singers/Choir Room10:00 AM September 25-27: Ladies’ Retreat - Doublehead Resort September 27-October 3: Experienced Adult Trip to Williamsburg


Hallelujah Choir Dinner Theatre Many thanks to our Hallelujah Choir for the Dinner Theatre this week!! The “high school reunion” has proven to be much fun, and your presence and message a lift to all. Opportunities for developing your musical knowledge and abilities— Music FUNdamentals Class This class continues through October 25, taught by Elizabeth Hostetter. This entry level class is for those who either do not read or would like to improve their music reading. We’ll do a variety of music skill building at each session. There is no pressure to perform! No tests!

For any interested adults! You can do as little or as much as you want. There is no required text, no homework but there will be recommended resources for those who want to do more. Room 242, Sundays, 5:00 p.m.

MasterClass for Singers Our Music Ministry continues its series of MasterClasses with a special session for persons interested in singing—This Saturday, September 19, 10:00 a.m. Taught by Dr. Ginger Beazley A great opportunity to learn some fundamentals related to singing, such as posture and body alignment, breathing, tone quality and range, etc. The Living Christmas Tree Preparations have begun! The choir so far is tremendous in every way. And, it is not too late to get involved. Regular rehearsal on Wednesday at 7:00, as usual, PLUS the September Bonus Thursday rehearsal is Thursday, September 24, at 6:30 p.m.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * LOOKING AHEAD— A Bicentennial Hymn Festival Sunday evening, October 18, 5:00 p.m. “What were we SINGING?” A focus upon the music of FBC in— The Log Church (1809-1825) The Brick Church (1825-1860) The Bell Tower Church (1861-1895) The Gothic Church (1895-1963) Governors Drive (1963-Present) An All Saints’ Day Concert Presented by the FBC Orchestra with special guests Sunday evening, November 1, 5:00 p.m.

VIDEO RECORDING This Sunday, September 20, a video film crew will be recording portions of both worship services and also some Sunday School department activities. They are taking footage for a video intended for newcomers to our community. It will be a part of Yellow Pages.Com. Please do your best to ignore the cameras and not let them distract you from worship.


FYI Menu

Wednesday, September 23 Adults

Greek Chicken w/Blackberry Sauce Long Grain Wild Rice

Mixed Vegetables Roll - Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORTS Week #49 - September 6, 2009


This Week $129,964.83 YTD $3,912,591.08


* * * * * Week #50 - September 13 2009


This Week $65,742.76 YTD $3,978,333.84

Debt Retirement This Week $595.00

YTD: $75,037.94

ATTENDANCE - SEPTEMBER 6, 2009

Sunday School Preschool 64 Children 88 Students 80 Adults 516 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 26 New Members — Visitors 37 TOTAL 811 ATTENDANCE - SEPTEMBER 13, 2009

Sunday School Preschool 81 Children 116 Students 112 Adults 616 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 18 New Members — Visitors 29 TOTAL 972 WORSHIP ATTENDANCE September 6, 2009 First Fellowship 225 Sanctuary Worship 619 TOTAL 844 September 13, 2009 First Fellowship 251 Sanctuary Worship 630 Student Retreat 83 TOTAL 964

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Parenting Ideas with John Rosemond Nationally known syndicated parenting columnist John Rosemond will speak at Huntsville High School, 2304 Billie Watkins Ave, on November 7th.

Rosemond, a family psychologist with more than 35 years experience working with families, is one of a handful of parenting experts who promote a truly traditional approach to raising children. His nationally-syndicated newspaper column appears in more than 250 newspapers and has more than 10 million readers. In 1989, John’s Six-Point Plan for Raising Happy, Healthy Children was published by Andrews McMeel. It rapidly became a best-seller. Since then, he has written twelve more parenting classics, including Parenting by The Book, published by Howard Books in 2007.

Rosemond will present two sessions at the high school. Parenting the Strong Willed Child is the first session, from 10:30 - 12:00. The second session, from 1:00 - 2:30 features Parenting the Strong Willed Teen. Between events, Rosemond will be available to autograph books purchased at the event.

Ticket prices are $15 for one session or $20 for both. To purchase tickets, please contact the Childhood Ministries Office at First Baptist Church at 428-9411 or you may stop by the church (Monday -Thursday, 9-2 or Friday, 9-noon). Rosemond’s visit is sponsored jointly by First Baptist Church Huntsville, Huntsville High School, and The Huntsville Times. PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT Friday, October 2 Deadline for reservations: September 20 Birth through 6 th Grade Main building, preschool entrance $5 per child Call 428-9411 for reservations

FALL FESTIVAL AT TATE’S FARM Saturday, October 24 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Cost $5.00 per person (23 months and under FREE) or $20 family. Tickets go on sale Sunday, September 27. Deadline Is Sunday, October 18.

We NEED your College Child School Contact Information. Please send it to Cindy Thompson at [email protected] or 256.428.9411

Make a Care Package for Your College Child Saturday—October 10 @ 10:00 AM

Do you have a loved one away from home? Would you like to send him or her something made with love? If so, come and join us at the CLC on Saturday, October 10, at 10:00 am. We will be making a journal, a school pennant, a treat bag, and a card to send to a loved one! The cost is $20 to cover supplies and RSVPs are needed by September 28 so supplies can be ordered. Please contact Toni Cassidy at 828-9992 and [email protected] OR Beth Crocker at 325-8313 and [email protected] for more information or to RSVP.

“HAP” Sack

Food Collection

From the picture shown here you can see a portion of the mountain of food that has been donated for HAP and Je-hovah-Jireh House. Thank you for your wonderful

generosity in helping with the food drive these last two weeks. These two great ministries will put all of it to good use.

“Caring for The Caregiver”Sunday September 27th

Led by Dr. Jack Ragland, LMFTDoctor of Ministry in Marriage and Family Therapy

5:00 p.m. Room 118

Loneliness..I feel like I’m losing touch with others.

Isolation…No one else understands or knows what I’m going through.

Exhausted…There’s not enough of me to go around.

I don’t know where to turn for advice

I’m drowning…

Am I becoming depressed

?

…To learn more join us Sunday Sept. 27Th

From FBC History Committee The Messenger of First Baptist Church began publication 59 years ago. Here is an excerpt from that very first issue. Vol 1, No. 1 May 18, 1950 PASTORGRAPHS The church has authorized a three-month trial period for the publication of a weekly church paper. The first issue of it is in your hands. It will be mailed on Thursday of each week and will carry a full schedule of church activities and news as well as general articles of denominational and religious nature. The Sun-day bulletin will be continued but will be cut down to include the orders of worship and special an-nouncements. We hope you will like "The Messenger" and that you will read it with care and interest. Dozens of similar publications by other Baptist churches come to our office each month and testimonies from these church leaders indicate that a very valuable contribution is made through the weekly church paper. Some changes will be made from time to time to improve the arrangement and content but the general format will be the same as you see it in this issue. It is the prayer and hope of the church staff that this little paper may serve as an integrating and coordinating organ in our church program, carrying its weekly "message" into the homes and hearts of our membership. We welcome your suggestions and comments. Dr. J. T. Ford

Starting Thursday October 15, 2009 FBC launches "Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood.” In this 24-session study, men will join together to ex-plore the biblical definition of manhood, to deepen relationships with other men, and to live lives of “authentic manhood”.” Session Topics include: The Four Faces of Manhood, Looking Back, "Unpacking", Making a Healthy Break with Mom, The All Alone Wound, The Wounded Heart, Implications of the Heart Wound, Genesis and Manhood, A Biblical Definition of Manhood, A Man and His Wife, 25 Practical Ways to be a

Servant Leader, Fathers and Sons, Fathers and Daughters, A Man and His Life Journey, among others. More information can be found at: http://www.mensfraternity.com/ Men’s Fraternity will meet Thursday mornings at 6:15 a.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Join with other men at Men’s Fraternity @ First and embrace The Quest for Authentic Manhood. Register with the Adult Ministries Office at 428-9403 or [email protected].

NEW STEPHEN MINISTER TRAINING CLASS

Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who receive special training to provide one -to-one Christian care to people in our congregation who are experiencing grief, loneliness, divorce, hospitalization, disability, job loss and many other life difficulties. A new training class for Stephen Ministers is being scheduled for January, 2010. If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister, or for more informa-tion, call Bettye Pugh at 881-6696.




At the most unexpected moments in your life there is this whisper of the Lord, “Come to Me,” and you are immediately drawn to Him. Personal contact with Jesus changes everything. –Oswald Chambers

WOMEN A group of 75 of our women - of all ages - will be attending FBC’s Women’s Retreat at Doublehead Resort September 25-27. Our focus: Lord, teach me to pray. Guest Speaker: Suzanne Matthews Music and Worship Leader: Amanda Allen Resounding thanks is given to our outstanding Women’s Retreat Planning Team: Kim Mims, Carla Cobb, Emily DePlachett, Beth Hoffman, Becky Lambert, Susan Wessinger, Fran Wilson, Lisa Wilson, Judith Whittington. Thank you for the prayers, time, and talents you have lovingly given to prepare the way for our wonderful upcoming weekend of personal contact with Jesus and with one another. MEN On Thursday, October 15, FBC will launch Men’s Fraternity: The Quest for Authentic Manhood. This is for men of all ages and will meet at FBC every Thursday morning at 6:15. Contact the Adult Ministries Office (428-9403 or [email protected]) to sign up or to learn more. Thank you to Dow Canup and Mike Soutullo, among others, for the leadership that is being given. YOUNG ADULTS (mostly 20s and 30s…some a little younger, some a little older…) Thursday nights, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. in Room 107 – FORUM Facilitator: Pam McDaniel Who and What: Most folks in Forum are in their 20s and 30s – some a little younger, some a little older; some are single, some are married; some are members of FBC, some are not. Because childcare is not a part of Forum, most who attend do not have children (but all are welcome). Supper is provided – as well as friendship, support, and fun! 6:30 – We eat supper and talk. 7:00 – We share in Bible study, prayer and more talk around the table 8:00 – We end...but stay and talk some more until we are ready to go home! Wednesday nights, 5:30-7:00 p.m. in Room 107 – Another Young Adult Small Group Facilitators: Scott and Karen Hangartner, Jeff and Kelley Gattis Who and What: Young adults (mostly 20s, 30s) gather for conversation, relationship building, and support for Christian living in a small group that is facilitated by some couples who have “experience on the road of life” and want to walk along with you! The content of the conversation varies based on the interests of the group. At some points it may be Bible study, other times book study, other times conversation about life. The core focus is supporting one another in our shared journey of Loving God, Serving Others, Growing Disciples. Childcare is available during this time, so if you are a young adult with children, this group may be of interest to you! …May our fall be full of personal contact with Jesus

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Sidney & JoAnne Allen 2803 Winterberry Way SE Owens Cross Roads AL 35763-8641 Eaton & Audrey Robinson 4409 Hidden Lake Dr SE Owens Cross Roads AL 35763-9020 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Wilma Basden Pat & Bo Cassity in the loss of her uncle and Allison Cassity in the loss of her great uncle, Bill Thompson Greg & Kathy Parker in the loss of his mother and Jacob Parker in the loss of his grandmother, Sarah Parker Family and friends of our member, Ruth Price OUR NEWEST Jacob Lewis McElroy, son of Daniel and Allison McElroy, 1101 Edgewood Ave, SE, Huntsville, AL 35801, born September 1, 2009. Proud grandparents are Glen and Mary Beth Priddy and great-grandmother Cecile Lochridge

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Karen and Nelson Parker and Susan Cornelius. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

ALABAMA WMU DAY OF PRAYER

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2009 9:30 A.M. - Room 118

Called Business Meeting Wednesday Night

September 23

For the purpose of voting on Nominating Committee Recommendations and

Budget Presentation/Discussion

October 30, 2008


As members of First Baptist Church we are part of a large family of Baptists. Not only are we connected to other members in our church, but we have Baptist brothers and sisters all around the world

who are in our family. Let me share some news about the Baptist family. We have some family reunions coming up. The annual meeting of the Madison Baptist Association will be Tuesday, October 20, at the Flint River Baptist Church. Last week the Executive Board of the Association called Dr. Harold Sellers to be the new Executive Director of Missions. I look forward to working with Dr. Sellers as he leads our Association in the years to come. If you would like to attend the Association meeting as a Messenger from our church, please contact Susan Williams in the church office. The Fall Gathering for Alabama CBF will be Tuesday, November 3, at the Mountain Brook Baptist Church in Birmingham. Special speakers for that occasion will be Neville Callam, the new General-Secretary of the Baptist World Alliance and Brent Walker, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee. You do not need to register to be a Messenger to this meeting. A brochure is on the bulletin board outside the church office that will contain more information about the gathering. The Alabama State Convention annual meeting will be in Huntsville this year. November 17 and 18 are the dates for the meeting that will be held at Whitesburg Baptist Church. If you would like to learn about the ministry of Baptists in Alabama, this local meeting will be a good opportunity for you. You do need to sign up to be a Messenger with Susan Williams in the church office. In this year when we celebrate 200 years as a church we also celebrate the 400th anniversary of Baptists. It is great to be a part of a Baptist family who gathers at 600 Governors Drive. It is also wonderful to be a part of the big family of Baptists.

Sunday, September 27 Sermon:

“By Faith...Joseph” “Trapped”

Genesis 40-41



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Bruce Zeiger and Werner Smock,

Concerto for Two Trumpets - Vivaldi

Sanctuary Choir - “Sing Praise to God” - arr. Berg

Sunday Evening Classes 5:00 p.m.

Foundations - Fellowship Hall Music Fundamentals - Room 242

Women’s Bible Study/Life Group - Room 111 “Caring for the Caregiver” - Room 114

6:00 p.m. Marriage Construction - Room 107


NEWLY ELECTED DEACONS

The following individuals were elected as deacons this past Sunday to serve three-year terms:

Paul Allison, George Barnes, Betty Barnett, Glenn Brown, Jerry Davis, Heinrich Dubose -Schmitt,

Frances Jones, Curt Morton, Phillip Roberts, Jim Whisenant, Len Worlund, Joe Zimmerman

Ministry Calendar Sunday, September 27 First Fellowship/Baptism/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Family Dedication Gathering/Chapel 10:00 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Fam. Dedication 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM MOPS Setup/118 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR, Sanct,342,140 5:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Caring for the Caregiver/114 5:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM Student FUN Night/Off Campus 6:00 PM

Monday, September 28 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM MOPS Mtg/118 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, September 29 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/343 7:00 PM

Wednesday, September 30 Lifeline Screening/CLC 8:15 AM-5:30 PM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Missions Strategy Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Early Adults SS Mtg/108 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Thursday, October 1 Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM The Vine Board Mtg/Parlor 11:30 AM BSF Fellowship/3rd Floor & Parlor 5:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM BSF Seminars/309-310 6:30 PM Friday, October 2 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Parents’ Night Out/WEE Halls 6:00 PM Saturday, October 3 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM September 25-27: Ladies’ Retreat - Doublehead Resort September 27-October 3: Experienced Adult Trip to Williamsburg


EASTER TO EASTER CHALLENGE E2E

Beginning this past Monday, September 21, we began an “Easter to Easter Challenge” weekly email to “First News.” The email will provide encouragement for each person to accept the challenge from our pastor to begin an intentional relationship with a person or family between last Easter and the coming Easter. The email will be designed with many different suggestions on how to build a relationship, develop listening skills, recommend recreational and social opportunities, define some kindness activities, and general guidance in spiritual conversations. If you are not on the “First News” list, call the office to have your email address added. If you do not have email service we will provide some printed content of the emails at the east welcome center. Look for the Easter to Easter display. Begin now praying for that person or family to whom you believe God is leading you to begin or strengthen a relationship in order to love them to Christ. See Mike Pearce for any questions. U.S. Flag Replacement Drive As a service to Huntsville area businesses, First Baptist Church Boy Scout Troop 70 is offering a U.S. Flag Replacement Drive. If your company’s flag is worn or faded, Troop 70 will help replace and retire your flag. All flags will be disposed of properly in an official flag retirement ceremony and new flags are available for a nominal fee. For more information, please contact Allan Morgan at 880-1544 ([email protected]). Service Opportunity with CASA – Assessors and Volunteers Needed CASA does a wonderful job working with older adults in our community to keep them warmer and safer during the winter months. Each year they enlist volunteers to help with Weatherization Day. This year, it will be Saturday, November 7. Perhaps your class or group would be willing to put a team together to help the elderly in our area. But the immediate need is for the assessors who evaluate the homes before hand for the work needed in weatherization so materials are available and volunteers will have what they need on November 7. Call Marcia at 533-7775 or email her at [email protected] to sign up or for more information. Food Drive Thank you, thank you for your wonderful response to the food drive for Huntsville Assistance Program and the Jehovah-Jireh House. Our FBC Boy Scout Troop 70 took the food to the Jehovah-Jireh House last Tuesday and the RA’s sorted and moved all the food for HAP on Wednesday night. Thanks to you all for your generosity and hard work.

Don’t start your shopping until… you have come to the World Crafts Party on Wednesday evening, October 14, in Room 118. You will be able to see and buy wonderfully unique hand-made items from around the world. Christmas items, jewelry, handbags, baskets, and linens are part of this beautiful collection which gives artisans and their families hope for a better life.


CROPTOBERFEST is coming Saturday, October 17th! Contact Kay for more info, 828-2700 or [email protected].

The Christian Life Center will host a Life Line Screening on Wednesday, September 30th. During this screening you can get up to 5 health tests performed at a great discounted rate. Life Line Screening forms are available at both Welcome Centers, as well as at the CLC Front Desk. Pre-registration is required, so don’t delay!

FYI Menu

Wednesday, September 30 Adults

Chicken Cordon Blue Broccoli/Cheese/Rice Casserole

Congealed Cranberry Salad Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #51 - September 20, 2009


This Week $56,587.05 YTD $4,034,920.89


ATTENDANCE - SEPTEMBER 20, 2009

Sunday School



FBC TABLECLOTHS

Pat Williams is now in charge of the

checking out and turning in of our church-owned tablecloths. If you need to use the tablecloths, please call Pat at 518-9262 or 426-4957.


THE BENEFITS OF REGULAR CHURCH ATTENDANCE by Neil MacQueen

What if I told you there was a well-researched and statistically proven program that can: • increase the average life expectancy of your children by 8 years • significantly reduce their use and risk from Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs

• dramatically lower their risk of suicide • help them rebound from depression 70% faster • dramatically reduce their risk for committing a crime

• improve their attitude at school and increase their school participation • improve their performance in college and lessen problems with college-age substance

abuse • reduce their risk for rebelliousness

• reduce the likelihood that they would binge drink in college • improve their odds for a "very happy" life • provide them with a life-long moral compass

• and get them to wear their seatbelts more often Is there such a program? Yes, there is. And it is supported by research from Duke University, Indiana University, The University of Michigan, The Center for Disease Control, Barna Research Group, numerous independent studies, and the National Institute for Healthcare Research. How much would a program like this be worth to you? What if I told you it was free, and only took about 2 hours a week? Take a look at the list again. It's not a dream. The program is called "active church participation." In study, after study, after study, children who actively engage in a faith community on a regular basis are rewarded with SIGNIFICANTLY reduced likelihood of problems and risks, and significantly improved odds of a happier, healthier, longer life. These studies show the same results for adults as well. To increase the odds of receiving these results, you can't wait. According to a Barna Research Group study, adults who attended church regularly as children are nearly three times as likely to be attending a church today as their peers who avoided church during childhood (61% to 22%, respectively). In other words, parents who truly want the best for their children should get their children involved at church now and regularly. In a search for "what works," researchers keep turning up "active participation" in a "faith community" as the one consistent potent factor in raising up children in the way they should go. It's time for the Christian Church to speak up on this matter, beginning with our own Christian parents.

To paraphrase Jesus, "What parent, knowing that it is bread that really works,

would give their child a stone?"




“Caring for the Caregiver” This Sunday, September 27th

5:00 p.m. Room 114 Led by Dr. Jack Ragland, LMFT

Doctor of Ministry in Marriage and Family Therapy

? I don’t know where to turn for advice ? Loneliness…I feel like I’m losing touch with others. ? Isolation…No one else understands or knows what I’m

going through. ? I’m drowning…Am I becoming depressed? ? Exhausted…There is not enough of me to go around.

…To learn more, join us this Sunday, September 27

Grief Recovery Support Group Find comfort and care to help you heal from your loss

Grief Share is a special weekly seminar/support group for people grieving the death of someone close. It’s a place where you can be around people who understand how you feel and the pain of your loss. At Grief Share, you’ll learn valuable information that will help you through this difficult time in your life.

FALL 2009

Groups will meet every Tuesday through October 27 6:00—7:30 p.m. - First Baptist Church Christian Life Center

To register or for more information, please call 428-9400.

FLU SHOTS

Seasonal flu shots will be given on Thursday, October 1, 8:00 a.m. until noon at the CLC. More details will be announced soon. FBC members will have a later opportunity for shots that will be given in our building. Watch for that announcement.

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Hoyt Harris, especially to his wife, Sandra Harris, and his children, Len & Renee Harris, Lori Harris and Lona Harris Lila Kennedy in the loss of her sister-in-law, Louise Kennedy Libertore Lynn & Don Mielke in the loss of her cousin, Harold Tatz Kristi & Randy Taylor in the loss of her father and Sarah, James, and Rachel Taylor in the loss of their grandfather, James Bailey

THANKS

Thank you notes have been received from Dathern Moon, Lamar and Shirley Thompson, Hoss Belk and Family, and The Monday Night CODA Group, These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

A “THANK YOU” FROM THE KEENES

Because Councill Court will close soon, the First Baptist ministry, “Our Father’s Closet,” officially closed on September 7. We would like to take this opportunity to thank First Baptist members for supporting this mission for more than 5 years. Many of you have helped to serve clients, sort clothes, and provide clothes, furniture, and other items. Your generosity has been overwhelming. As a result, we have assisted hundreds of families with clothes and other necessities. The remaining items will be passed on to another ministry. Sincerely, Rodger and Susan Keene

ALABAMA WMU DAY OF PRAYER

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 9:30 A.M. - Room 118

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

I invite you to a special event on Sunday night, October 11. Even if you do not normally come on Sunday night, I encourage you to be with us for worship and fellowship. It is once again time for our joint worship service with the First

Missionary Baptist Church on Blue Spring Road. Because of the special events of the evening, we will not have our usual Foundations for Life teaching time at 5:00 p.m.. The worship service will begin in the Sanctuary at 6:30. During worship the choir from First Missionary Baptist will sing and Dr. Julius Scruggs will preach. I am always stirred by the music of the choir and the preaching of Dr. Scruggs. You really do not want to miss this experience. Following worship we will have a time of food and fellowship. Each year we enjoy the worship and fellowship when our two churches get together. This year will have a special significance beyond what happens every year. You are probably aware that Dr. Scruggs was recently elected President of the National Baptist Convention. This is a tremendous honor for him and the church that he serves. We will have the opportunity to offer our words of blessing and our prayers for God’s strength and guidance as Dr. Scruggs takes on this new leadership role with a national scope. He will continue to serve as the Pastor of First Missionary Baptist Church as he also gives leadership to those in the National Baptist Convention. We read in Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” I invite you to join with our friends at First Baptist Church, Blue Spring Road as we share in their rejoicing over the election of Dr. Scruggs to this singular honor. Isn’t it great to be a part of the family of faith known as First Baptist Church? Isn’t it great that our family of faith is larger than just our own congregation? We are always enriched when we can join with brothers and sisters from another church. I hope that you can be with us on October 11 for this special experience.

Sunday, October 4

Sermon: “By Faith...Joseph”

“Promoted” Genesis 41:46-50:26

Celebration of the Lord’s Supper

First Fellowship Music by A20


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir Anthem— “At Calvary”—McDonald

Ben Bragg, trombone offertory

Sunday Evening Classes 5:00 p.m.

Foundations—Fellowship Hall Music Fundamentals—Room 242 Women’s Bible Study/Life Group

Room 111

6:00 p.m. Marriage Construction— Room 107

December 18, 2008 October 1, 2009

Alabama WMU Day of Prayer

Tuesday, October 6

9:30 a.m. - Room 118

Ministry Calendar Sunday, October 4 First Fellowship/Lord’s SupperFH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Lord’s Supper 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Foundations/FH 5:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM

Monday, October 5 - Fall Break Week Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Men’s BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Tuesday, October 6 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Women on Mission/118 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/343 7:00 PM

Wednesday, October 7 Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH (No Kids’ Meals) 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Missions Strategy Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Fall Break Movie Night/309-310 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Thursday, October 8 FBC Stitchers/CLC 1:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM Friday, October 9 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM MOPS Steering Comm/Library 9:00 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Saturday, October 10 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM

“Meet FBC!” Sunday Mornings, Room 241A For new members to meet with

our ministerial staff

Our Remaining Schedule

Oct. 4 – Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Oct. 11 – Jamie Mackey, Minister to Students Oct. 18 – Jud Reasons, Associate Pastor


We will be led by several of our Music Ministry groups in this festival—Sanctuary Choir, Music Makers and Young Musicians, one of our adult praise bands, and the FBC Orchestra, Do plan to attend…….with a friend by your side !


FYI Menu

Wednesday, October 7

Adults Ham - Scalloped Corn

Broccoli - Roll Dessert

Salad



NO KIDS’ MEALS THIS WEEK

STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week # 52 - September 27, 2009 Year -to-Date Goal: $4,150,000.00 Offering:

This Week $73,122.33 YTD $4,108,043.22


ATTENDANCE SEPTEMBER 27, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services First Fellowship 323 Sanctuary Worship 549 Women’s Retreat 75 Experienced Adult Trip 45 TOTAL 1037

Caribbean Mission Work

The Caribbean Mission Team still needs two or three more volunteers for the Dominican Republic work November 21-28, 2009. Some financial assistance is available. Call Charlene Graham or Laura Elrod, 461-7482, at Dr. Jerry Graham’s office. Last day to sign up is October 15, 2009.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool MOPS The goal of MOPS International is to come alongside mothers of preschoolers to encourage, equip and develop them to be the best moms possible. How We Do This at FBC By encouraging and equipping moms through speakers and group discussions. By developing leaders through Steering Team leadership positions. By growing churches because Moms see the importance of following God’s leadership in their lives. By bringing moms and families to Christ through examples of Christ likeness, support and friendships. FBCMOPS will be limited in membership when we are unable to provide care for the children of the Mothers of Preschoolers who want to join our group. We are still seeking some people who will help us with our MOPPETS program for the babies through Kindergarten age children who come with their mothers. If you are interested in helping to provide this care, please contact Joy at 428-9411 or [email protected]. This outreach ministry reaches Moms of all ages because we all live on Planet Mom and we can learn from one another as we navigate this life of motherhood. Please be in prayer for our Steering Team leaders and for the Moms who come to our meeting seeking friendship and support.

DON’T FORGET!

FALL FESTIVAL AT TATE’S FARM Saturday, October 24

6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Cost $5.00 per person

(23 months and under FREE) or $20 family Tickets on sale now in the Childhood Ministries Office.

Deadline Is Sunday, October 18.

JOHN ROSEMOND Huntsville High School, 2304 Billie Watkins Ave, November 7th. Parenting the Strong Willed Child, from 10:30 - 12:00 Parenting the Strong Willed Teen, from 1:00 – 2:30. Ticket prices are $15 for one session or $20 for both. Rosemond’s visit is sponsored jointly by First Baptist Church Huntsville, Huntsville High School, and The Huntsville Times.

Fall Break Movie Night

Wednesday October 7 6:00 PM

in the Student Big Room

Popcorn, Snacks, & Drinks will be

served.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 39, October 1, 2009


October Couple Time! ….because giving care & attention to the marriage relationship is important.

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Betty Belk, especially to her husband, A.D. Belk, her son, Dan & Carol Belk, and her grandson, Tyler Belk. OUR NEWEST Victoria Jane Blevins, daughter of Julie and Greg Blevins, 5 Haynes Drive, Moody, AL 35004, born September 28, 2009. Proud grandparents are Susan and Roger Keene.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

Friday, October 9 10:00 a.m.

Fellowship Hall

Program: “Laughter...Good Medicine”

Speaker:

Belinda Talley

Call Kay Gover, 536-8317,

for reservations.

WHAT: COUPLE TIME: DINNER AND A MOVIE WHO: Married and Dating Couples WHERE: Ditto Landing Pavilion WHEN: Friday, 16 October 2009 TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 PM RESERVATIONS NEEDED BY: 7 October to Hope Davis, FBC Adult Ministry Office 428-9403 or [email protected] COST: No cost! Dinner is provided (Lawler’s BBQ).

Set aside a night to give attention to your mate. Enjoy dinner, an enjoy-able outdoor movie, and fellowship with other couples at the Riverside Pavilion at Ditto Landing. Our food will be from Lawler’s BBQ. Consider bringing chairs or a blanket for you to sit on and a jacket or warm cloth-ing in case it’s windy. Please note that you are responsible for arranging your own childcare. Let us know if you need help securing names of babysitter possibilities.

Questions? Contact a member of our FBC

Marriage Ministry Team:

Nathan & Hannah Alderson John & Jamie Richardson

Jay & Meg Harrell George & Kay Bugg Bob & Cherry Saint

FBC Marriage Ministry...helping couples become more Christ-like by loving, serving, and growing closer to God and each other.

October 30, 2008


In recent weeks we have begun to broadcast our Sanctuary Worship service in High Definition. This new technology provides a much clearer picture for those who worship with us by television. Perhaps this new venture into the world of High Definition can help us think about the proclamation of the Gospel. Jesus commands us to love. In fact his

commandments were given in High Definition. They are crystal clear – but often difficult to follow. For the next four weeks I will be preaching about the “love commandments” of Jesus and how we are called to follow them today.

Message Series: “High Definition Love

October 11 “Love the Lord your God” - Mark 12:28-34

The Greatest Commandment tells us that we are to love God with all of our being. How do we do this?

October 18 “Love Your Neighbor” Mark 12:28-31, Luke 10:25-37

Part II of the Greatest Commandment tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Who is my neighbor?

October 25 “Love Your Enemies” - Matthew 5:43-48

Jesus challenges us to go beyond loving people who love us in return. How is it possible to love our enemies?

November 1 “Love One Another” - John 13:34-35

Jesus gave a new commandment – to love one another as he had loved. So how did Jesus love?

Our world needs to see and hear Christians who are obeying the commands to love. Let’s make sure that we have these words of Jesus clearly in focus. I invite you to join us for worship as we think about “High Definition Love.”

Sunday, October 11 New Message Series Begins:

“High Definition Love” Sermon: “Love the Lord your God”

Mark 12:28-34



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. FBC Orchestra will play

Sanctuary Choir anthem— Down to the River to Pray—Arr. Chilcott


WORLD CRAFTS PARTY WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14

4:00—7:00 p.m. - ROOM 118

Come early to shop for Christmas gifts from around the world. These gifts are from artisans who are able to support their families from the sale of these items. These unique gifts are from more than 160 countries. Don’t miss this great opportunity!!

Sunday Evening Worship

6:30 p.m. - FBC Sanctuary Joint Worship Service with

First Missionary Baptist Church, Blue Springs

Message by Dr. Julius Scruggs Music by First Missionary Baptist Choir

Fellowship time to follow.

Regular Sunday evening classes will not meet.

Ministry Calendar Saturday, October 10 Sweater Collection/ 9:00 AM-2:00 PM East Entrance Sunday, October 11 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship/Baptism 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Accompanists’ MasterClass/CR 2:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM MOPS Set-Up/118 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Joint Worship w/Blue Springs 6:30 PM FBC Sanctuary/Fellowship to follow

Monday, October 12 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM Roundtable/242E 12:00 PM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor 5:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, October 13 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM HAP Board/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, October 14 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Cradle Roll/Off Campus 11:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/242 4:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM World Crafts Party/118 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Ministry Dev. Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Stewardship Committee/114 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Missions Strategy/Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct/141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, October 15 Men’s Fraternity/FH 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM LCT Bonus Reh/CR,Sanct 6:30 PM

Friday, October 16 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Scrapbooking/CLC 9:00 AM Couple Time/FH 5:00 PM

Saturday, October 17 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM

Staff Anniversary Recognition

This week we celebrate and give thanks to God for the ministry we have shared with Pam McDaniel. Pam joined the staff of FBC in September of 1994 but has been a member of FBC since 1978. She began as Minister to Preschool in 1994 and as ministry needs changed, Pam’s assignment also changed. She is now our Minister to Young and Median Adults. Her love for God and the ministry that God has called her to has touched many individuals over her fifteen years on staff.

When you see Pam in the hallway this week, share your words of encouragement and appreciation with her. Thank you, Pam, for the loving way you lead us at FBC!

Children’s Missions & Music Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Missions and Music On Sunday, October 18th, the 4th and 5th Grade Girls in Action group will be offering for sale crosses made from tiles that have fallen from our mosaic. The 200 crosses were created and numbered to commemorate our Bicentennial year. At the Homecoming Banquet held in June, each of our five living pastors was presented with the cross numbered with the year his pastorate began. The remaining 195 crosses will be for sale on October18th at the following times and locations: —before First Fellowship in the Fellowship Hall, —before Sunday School at the East Entrance —before Sanctuary Worship in front of the Library Cost is $10 and the proceeds will be given to the building renovation fund. For more information, please contact Lara Daugherty at 837-5688.

Led by several of our Music Ministry groups….Sanctuary Choir, Music Makers and Young Musicians, an adult praise band, and FBC Orchestra. Do plan to attend…...and bring a friend.


You’re invited to…

CROPTOBERFEST! Come enjoy 12 hours of dedicated time and space for your album-making projects while having access to the latest information and products.

• Saturday, October 17th

• Christian Life Center

• 9am to 9pm

• Registration fee: $25 Great gifts and fantastic prizes! Space is limited and going fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a day of scrapbooking with friends, completing many pages, and potentially winning more supplies! Contact Kay Bugg if you are interested, at (256)828-2700 or [email protected].

FYI Menu

Wednesday, October 14 Adults

BBQ Pork - Baked Beans Cole Slaw - Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #1 - October 4, 2009

Year -to-Date Goal: $76,360.00 Offering:

This Week $66,283.54 YTD $66,283.54

Debt Retirement: This Week $585.00 YTD $585.00

ATTENDANCE—OCTOBER 4, 2009 Sunday School



BAPTIST WOMEN… 200 YEARS OF FASHIONS

This is the theme of our upcoming “Tea” celebrating the 200 years of First Baptist Church. Women of FBC are invited to a Tea and Fashion Show celebrating the church’s past through a display of fashion. The event is Sunday, November 15, at noon. Each ticket is $10 and the seating is limited. Ticket sales begin on Sunday, October 25.


PASSING ON OUR FAITH

How is it that the local church has the greatest children and youth ministries in the history of western civilization and yet produces a generation of young adults who “compartmentalize” their faith in Christ at best? I dream of a day when our children make decisions about relationships, family marriage, morality, and life path based on their deep conviction that all of their life belongs to Christ. However, despite all of our technology, resources, programming, and professionalism we are somehow missing the boat of effective spiritual formation. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY? These commands that I give to you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. —Deut. 6:6-7 He decreed statues for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. —Ps.78:5-7 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have com-manded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.—Mat. 28:19-20 Fathers do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. —Eph. 6:4 When you follow this thread of Scripture, it is easy to discover that God’s plan is for Him to partner with the work of the family to disciple children. How does the church partner with mom and dad to equip and help you accomplish this command?.... Let’s have some con-versation about what you need as parents to pass your faith to the next generation. In Christ, Cindy


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 40, October 8, 2009


Care for the Caregiver*

Jack Ragland Giving consistent or long-term care for a loved one is at best a difficult situation. There are many things to consider and often it seems we have to make a decision between what are all bad options. It is important to remember that if we are really trying hard to do the best we can by our loved one that we are, in fact, giving them the best we can. Here are some things to consider: Do as much pre-planning as you can. When you first begin to see the role you are about to take, make sure all legal and medical directives are in place. Reach out to others to help. This is no time to be a lone ranger. Look to the church, community services, support groups and others to give you help and ideas. There is no need to “reinvent the wheel” when others have already been there.

FBC has a wonderful Stephen Ministry program. Find out if it is right for you—it probably is. Do as much research as you can into the issues at hand with your loved one so you can be prepared and there will be fewer surprises. For additional resources visit the Adult Ministries Office. They can help connect you with helpful services and will

have a list of internet resources that might be helpful to you. Just remember, the worst thing you can do is think you can do it alone. * These are notes taken from last week’s meeting with Jack Ragland on “Care for the Caregiver.”

SWEATER COLLECTION

This Saturday, October 10, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM FBC East Entrance

Please bring new or clean, slightly used sweaters, afghans, gloves, and scarves for school-aged children. These will be donated to neighborhood schools and Christmas Charities.

Family Matters

No Sympathy Announcements or

New Members

ACCOMPANISTS’ MASTER CLASS

Sunday, October 11, 2-4:30 p.m.

Led by Elizabeth Hostetter Choir Room

This is to improve accompanying skills and is for anyone who accompanies a choir, soloist, or is pianist in the orchestra or has an interest in learning how to accompany. Part of the session will use class participants willing to bring an accompaniment and play it for the class. Elizabeth will give pointers to help in following a conductor and playing musically. If you would like to do this, come prepared to play. Choir directors are encouraged to come and conduct an anthem using his/her accompanist.

FBC FALL FAMILY CAMPOUT

October 29-31 Lake Guntersville State Park

We will be staying in Sections G, E, and D. You will be required to make the first night deposit to hold your campsite and dates. For more information or to sign up, contact Lake Guntersville State Park by calling CAMPGROUND (256)571-5455 or RESORT Information: (256)5715440. Each camper is responsible for making their own reservation. Then contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403, to tell us your plans.

October 30, 2008


Our Bicentennial Anniversary has given us a wonderful opportunity to reflect on many different aspects of church life over the last 200 years. The beauty of commissioned paintings have reminded us about the five buildings that housed

our congregation. We have honored the saints who have gone before us in the great history of the church. Former pastors have been here to talk about their days of ministry. A history book tells the story of a church that has led the way in ministry and mission. A special Reunion Weekend gave us a chance for a memorable celebration. Now it is time to experience the music of our history. On Sunday night at 5:00 p.m. our Music Ministry will lead a Bicentennial Hymn Festival. The congregation will sing favorite hymns and hear music presentations by Children’s Choirs, Sanctuary Choir, a Praise Band, and our Orchestra. In addition, I understand that there will be several “guest appearances” by Beulah Ware who was our organist for 60 years! The printed program for the evening will be a great keepsake from our Anniversary year. I encourage you to come to the Bicentennial Hymn Festival. Even more than that – I hope that you will invite someone to come with you to the event. It promises to be a special evening. The music will continue on Sunday night, November 1, in an “All Saints’ Day Concert.” Our church Orchestra will be leading us on that night. The music will range from a presentation of Mendelssohn’s Symphony # 5 known as “Reformation,” to a big band sound. Our Bicentennial theme verse fits the meaning of All Saints’ Day – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses . . .” (Hebrews 12:1) The music of the evening will help us to give thanks for those saints who have gone before us in the long history of our church. You will be enriched by the experience of the evening if you come. Don’t just keep that experience to yourself – bring someone with you! I am grateful for a wonderful Music Ministry that helps us to remember our heritage as we worship our God together.

Sunday, October 18 Sermon:

“Love Your Neighbor” Mark 12:28-31, Luke 10:25-37



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music from the Sanctuary Choir—

Bound for the Promised Land—arr. Wilberg Eric Clark, oboe solo

Sunday Evening - 5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary Bicentennial Hymn Festival


Ministry Calendar Sunday, October 18 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 4:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 4:30 PM Bicentennial Hymn Festival/Sanct 5:00 PM Monday, October 19 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM All-City Choral Festival Sanct, CR, Parlor 8:00 AM-3:30 PM BSF/Chapel 5:00 PM All-City Choral (Con’t) 6:00-9:00 PM Tuesday, October 20 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM All-City Choral Festival Sanct, CR, Parlor 8:00 AM-3:30 PM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./242 9:00 AM WEE/ Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./242 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/242 11:00 AM Music Staff/242 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM All-City Choral Concert/Sanct, CR, Parlor 7:00 PM

Wednesday, October 21 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-1:00 PM Library Open 3:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Congregational Life Comm/114 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct/141 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, October 22 Men’s Fraternity/FH 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM FBC Stitchers/CLC 1:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Bldr’s B Fellowship/118 5:30 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM LCT Bonus Reh/CR,Sanct 6:30 PM

Friday, October 23 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Fellowship Club Trip/Off Campus 7:30 AM

Saturday, October 24 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM BSF Seminar/342 9:00-11:00 AM Fall Festival—Tate’s Farm 6:00 PM

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Our Music Ministry is very excited about the “Bicentennial Hymn Festival” this Sunday afternoon, October 18, at 5 pm! Highlights include— * Many of our favorite hymns

* Several “guest appearances” of Beulah Ware! * Children’s choirs and the Sanctuary Choir * Music from the Orchestra and one of our Praise Bands * Historical display of memorabilia and the church portraits * Singing to the sounds of our FIRST church organ (ca.1876) The printed program will be a wonderful keepsake from our Anniversary Year, as it contains significant historical information and pictures. The “What Were We Singing” segments will help us to explore, experience and celebrate the songs that helped our church live through the past 200 years.

Plan to attend…….and invite friends!

15-Year Staff Anniversary Recognition

This week we celebrate and give thanks to God for the ministry we have shared with Angela Seanor. Angela joined the staff in September of 1994 as our Childcare Coordinator. Her dedication to providing the best for our children is evident as she coordinates the number of paid workers needed per class, watches the church calendar closely to determine when childcare is necessary, interviews and trains staff, and still finds the time to encourage parents and workers. Her gentle spirit and servant heart is evident to workers, parents, and children. When you see Angela in the hallway this week, share your words of encouragement and appreciation with her. Thank you, Angela, for loving our children!


FYI Menu


Broccoli Soup Turkey Sub Sandwich

Dessert



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT

NOT AVAILABLE DUE TO HOLIDAY

ATTENDANCE REPORT October 11, 2009


WORSHIP SERVICE October 11, 2009


FLU SHOTS FOR FBC MEMBERS

Wednesday, October 21 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. - CLC

You must make a reservation. Call 428-9403 or email

[email protected] to reserve your space. First 150 reservations will be taken. Cost: Free to Medicare members; $9 for BC/BS members. All others $30.

TICKETS FOR THE LADIES’ “TEA”

AND FASHION SHOW WILL

GO ON SALE SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25.


ANNOUNCEMENT! 4-YEAR OLDS TO ENTER WORSHIP SOON! During the month of November, the children enrolled in our 4-year old Sunday School class will participate in God’s Sanctuary to experience worship either in First Fellowship or Sanctuary Worship. Please begin to pray now for the children (and for their parents) as they enter this new phase of development and continue to grow as Jesus did. Our 4’s will participate in Worship beginning on the 1st Sunday of Advent.

ROSEMOND TICKETS AVAILABLE IN CHILDHOOD MINISTRIES OFFICE FBC, Huntsville High School and the Huntsville Times are sponsoring JOHN ROSEMOND Huntsville High School, 2304 Billie Watkins Ave, November 7th. Parenting the Strong Willed Child, from 10:30 - 12:00 Parenting the Strong Willed Teen, from 1:00 – 2:30. Ticket prices are $15 for one session or $20 for both and are available in the Childhood Ministries office. Rosemond, a family psychologist with more than 35 years experience working with families, is one of a handful of parenting experts who promote a truly traditional approach to raising children. His nationally-syndicated newspaper column appears in more than 250 newspapers and has more than 10 million readers. In 1989, John’s Six-Point Plan for Raising Happy, Healthy Children was published by Andrews McMeel. It rapidly became a best-seller. Since then, he has written twelve more parenting classics, including Parenting by The Book, published by Howard Books in 2007.

DON’T FORGET! CHURCH-WIDE FAMILY FALL FESTIVAL AT TATE’S FARM Saturday, October 24 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. - Cost $5.00 per person (23 months and under FREE) Deadline for tickets Is this Sunday, October 18.

Like a speeding roller coaster, raising teens can be a wild ride. Both joyous thrills and sheer terrors are likely to occur in the everyday ups and downs and the unexpected bumps and turns….Adolescence is a time of rapid change, when a young person is busy figuring out who he or she is and wants to be….At the same time, the role you have played for years as a parent may suddenly be less clear, and you may not know what to do.

Here are a few suggestions for your role as parents during the adolescent years: 1. Ignite Positive Change—for your teen to grow up to be a caring, responsible, and

happy adult, you need to help her or him learn how to make wise choices, handle the pressures of daily living, and find meaning and fulfillment in life.

2. Steer Away Obstacles—view obstacles differently. Rather than seeing them from the negative, see them as learning opportunities.

3. Build You Teen’s Assets—help them have both internal and external strengths that help them function well in society.

4. Nurture Your Own Assets—you cannot do it alone. Find other parents and adults to be a source of support for you. Who you perceive yourself to be also changes being a parent.

5. Reach Out and Let Your Child Give to the Family—allow your child to reach out through his or her unique gifts to your family.

6. Keep Loving Them—as turbulent as adolescence can be, continue to love your child. [Quoted and modified from Parenting at the Speed of Teens: Positive Tips on Everyday Issues—A Search Institute Publication.]

Sunday—October 25 6:00 PM

Dinner at Alex Wilson’s Home Activity—Corn MAiZE

Cost: $8.00 into the MAiZE

(Sign-up is required—either on the board outside Student Ministry Office,

Youth area, Facebook, or email)


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 41, October 15, 2009.

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Scott & Susan Field in the loss of his mother and David and Ellen Field in the loss of their grandmother, Bettie Field Dee & Towry Jacks in the loss of her sister-in-law, Christine Prince

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Lila Kennedy, Jo Anne and Sidney Allen,

and Lynn and Don Mielke. These have been placed on the bulletin board across

from the Church Office.

THE VINE PASTORAL COUNSELING

CENTER is on Facebook. Become a fan and receive updates which will include periodic prayers and

thoughts for people on a healing journey. Our web address is www.vinepcc.com or you may

call The Vine at 461-8580.

FBC FALL FAMILY CAMPOUT

October 29-31 Lake Guntersville State Park

We will be staying in Sections G, E, and D. You will be required to make the first night deposit to hold your campsite and dates. For more information or to sign up, contact Lake Guntersville State Park by calling CAMPGROUND (256)571-5455 or RESORT Information: (256)5715440. Each camper is responsible for making their own reservation. Then contact the Adult Ministry Office, 428-9403, to tell us your plans.

Early Adult Ministry Pam McDaniel, Minister to Young and Median Adults

EARLY ADULTHOOD MINISTRY TEAM

“What are the needs of our adults, ages 20s-50s?” “What forms of Christian support are we offering to meet those needs?”

“What are we doing well?” “What do we need to improve?”

Those are the questions asked by the members of our Early Adulthood Ministry Team. This team meets for the purpose of defining, evaluating, and strengthening the ministry of FBC with young and median adults. The next meeting of our Early Adulthood Ministry Team is Wednesday, October 21. Do you have input you would like to offer? We want to hear from you. Please feel free to contact Pam McDaniel ([email protected]; 428-9403) or a member of this year’s Early Adulthood Ministry Team: Scott Boothe Jennifer Matthews Andy Crocker Toni Morgan Crystal Dickerson Dan Smythe Culise Hill A representative from Twentysomethings/Forum Nan Kirk

This Sunday, October 18th, the 4th and 5th Grade Girls in Action group will be offering for sale crosses made from tiles that have fallen from our mosaic. The 200 crosses were created and numbered to commemorate our Bicentennial year. At the Homecoming Banquet held in June, each of our five living pastors was presented with the cross numbered with the year his pastorate began. The remaining 195 crosses will be for sale on October 18th at the following times and locations: —before First Fellowship in the Fellowship Hall, —before Sunday School at the East Entrance —before Sanctuary Worship in front of the Library

Cost is $10 and the proceeds will be given to the building renovation fund. For more information, please contact Lara Daugherty at 837-5688.

October 30, 2008


I write these words today from Richmond, Virginia, where I am attending a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond. This morning

we began our meeting with a Devotion that was led by Dr. Caleb Oladipo, a Professor of World Missions at the seminary. Scripture and prayer composed the time of worship that we experienced together. The following two prayers were prayed by our group: O gracious and Holy Father, Give us wisdom to perceive thee, Intelligence to understand thee, Diligence to seek thee, Patience to wait for thee, Eyes to behold thee, A heart to meditate upon thee, And a life to proclaim thee; Through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayer of St. Benedict (c. 480-547) May the strength of God pilot us. May the power of God preserve us. May the wisdom of God instruct us. May the hand of God protect us. May the way of God direct us. May the shield of God defend us. May the host of God guard us against the snares of evil and the temptations of the world. May Christ be with us, Christ before us, Christ in us, Christ over us. May thy salvation, O Lord, be always ours this day and for evermore. Amen. Attributed to St. Patrick (c. 385-461)

Sunday, October 25 Sermon: “Love Your Enemies”

Matthew 5:43-48

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by Youth Band

Youth Choir: “Be Still and Know” —Chapman


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir–

“To God be the Glory” —Arr. Raney

“Cantate Domino” —Pitoni Youth Choir - “Be Still and Know” —Chapman

Evening Schedule Conclusion of all

Foundations for Life classes.


Women of FBC

are invited to tea and a show of fashion from the past 200 years.

Sunday, November 15, 2009 at noon

$10.00 per guest/ticket

Tickets will be sold at the East Entrance and in the Fellowship Hall on

October 25 and 28; November 1 and 4; and November 8.

Seating is limited - get your tickets early!

Ministry Calendar Sunday, October 25 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Parenting in the Pew/205 9:00 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM MOPS Setup/118 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR, Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Music Fundamentals/242 5:00 PM Parent Time/114 5:00 PM Women’s Bible Study/111 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Dr. Hull’s Bible Study/FH 5:00 PM Marriage Construction/107 6:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM

Monday, October 26 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:00 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, October 27 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Grief Share/CLC Patio Room 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, October 28 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/242 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Mission Strategy Work Grp/Parlor 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Leadership Council/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, October 29 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:00 PM All Saint’s Day Concert Reh/Sanct 7:00 PM

Friday, October 30 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM WEE Jamboree/Courtyard 8:00 AM

Saturday, October 31 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM All Saint’s Day Concert Reh/Sanct 10:00 AM

Alabama CBF's Fall Gathering

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 Mountain Brook Baptist Church, Birmingham, Alabama

Theme: 400 Years of Freedom as Baptists The year 2009 marks the 400th anniversary of the founding of the

Baptist tradition in America. Come hear Neville Callam, leader of the Baptist World Alliance, and celebrate the freedom

that we share together as Baptists. To register, go to: www.alabamacbf.orrg

Alabama Baptist State Convention Annual Meeting

Tuesday & Wednesday, November 17-18, 2009 Whitesburg Baptist Church, Huntsville, Alabama

Special worship service begins at 6:45 PM, November 17 Theme: The Great Commission...GPS (God's Plan for Sharing)

For more information, visit www.alsbom.org Contact Susan Williams in the Pastor’s Office

if you are interested in being sent as a Messenger.

FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION This week we recognize Darryl McLaughlin, one of our church custodial staff members, for five years of service here at First Baptist Church. Darryl began work with us on October 25, 2004. He is responsible for cleaning the first floor area of our church which includes Fellowship Hall and the multiple setups this room requires each week. He also maintains the cleanliness of all classrooms, hallways and bathrooms on the first floor as well as the cleaning of the kitchen floor each day after use with WEE and other Church-wide events. Including other general

repairs and assisting other custodial staff as needed, Darryl is quite busy. His careful attention to these areas allows our church and community to have a clean and comfortable place to worship and serve. Next time you see Darryl, express your words of appreciation and affirmation to him for his service among us.

New Church Directory Needs Your Help!

In the next month, we will be printing new church directories that will be formatted and hole punched to fit in the back of your current pictorial directory. Pictures of those who have joined since our current pictorial directory went to press in July of 2007 will also be included in this new update. As we make final preparations, we need your help in having correct information. If your information (home address, home phone, work phone) has changed in the past two years and you have not notified the church office, please call Nancy Moore in the church office or email her at [email protected]. Please make this contact today!

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern Did you know... ...that the American Heart Association recommends that adults do moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for at least 30 minutes 5 days out of the week, or vigorous-intensity aerobic activity for at least 20 minutes 3 days out of the week? The AHA also recommends that adults engage in maintaining or increasing muscular strength and endurance (weight or resistance workout) at least 2 days each week as a part of a healthy lifestyle. (For more info, please visit http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=120001) Just because it’s getting cold and rainy outside doesn’t mean that you can’t get your exercise in. The FBC Christian Life Center offers a walking track, a basketball court and racquetball court, and many aerobic and weight-lifting machines indoors for your convenience. Don’t let the weather keep you from maintaining a healthy exercise routine!

FYI Menu


Beef Tips over Rice Green Peas

Cranberry Congealed Salad Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week # Year -to-Date Goal: $ Offering:

This Week $ YTD $

Debt Retirement: This Week $ YTD $

Facilities Expansion: YTD: $

ATTENDANCE

Sunday School

Preschool Children Students Adults Brookdale—Regular Attenders New Members Visitors TOTAL

Worship Services First Fellowship Sanctuary Worship TOTAL


PASSING ON OUR FAITH (Part 2) How is it that the local church has the greatest children and youth ministries in the his-tory of western civilization and yet produces a generation of young adults who “compartmentalize” their faith in Christ at best? I dream of a day when our children make decisions about relationships, family marriage, morality, and life path based on their deep conviction that all of their life belongs to Christ. However, despite all of our technology, resources, programming, and professionalism we are somehow missing the boat of effective spiritual formation. SO IF THE BIBLE SAYS... These commands that I give to you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. —Deut. 6:6-9 We as Christian parents have been commanded in this passage to “impress on our children God’s commands.” You’ll note it’s not a suggestion. But it also leads to the question of “HOW?” HOW DO WE AS CHRISTIAN PARENTS ACCOMPLISH THIS? This very same Scripture gives us the how….. Talk about them ... • when you sit at home: Do you have faith conversations at home? Do you talk about

your child’s Sunday school lesson? Do you have a family devotion anytime during the week?

• when you walk along the road: Do you talk about Godly things in the car between activities? Do you listen to and talk about Christian music? Do you pray together when you see/hear and ambulance/fire truck/ police car?

• when you lie down: Do you pray for and with your child every night at bedtime? Do you read a Bible story together before going to bed? Does your child see you study your Bible?

• when you get up: Do you pray for your child in the morning (at breakfast or in the car on the way to school)? Do you select a verse of the day/week or passage of the month for memorization?

These are just a few of the ways you can impact your child’s spiritual formation. It’s not diffi-cult, but it is imperative. Your children will follow your example and lead, but you must be intentional about passing on your faith. In Christ, Cindy

FYI Menu

Adults Wednesday, October 28

Beef Tips over Rice

Green Peas - Cranberry Salad Dessert

Salad

Chef’s Salad (Reservations for salad must be turned in

by noon on Wednesday.)


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #3 - October 18, 2009

Year-to-Date Goal: $229,080.00 Offering:

This Week $50,403.84 YTD $191,615.97


ATTENDANCE - OCTOBER 18, 2009

Sunday School Preschool 84 Children 128 Students 106 Adults 652 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 21 New Members - - Visitors 29 TOTAL 1020 Worship Attendance First Fellowship 271 Sanctuary Worship 603 TOTAL 874

BICENTENNIAL THROWS Our First Baptist Boy Scout Troop #70 is selling throws (54”x 60”) commemorating the Bicentennial of our church. The cost is $50 and they will be on sale until October 30. You must place your order by that date. A sample is on permanent display in Room 107. You may order the throws by calling Rebecca Dean at 837-5235. Payment is required with your order and the throws will be available in early December.

First Baptist Church Fall 2009

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

Ministry Plan October - September, FY 2009

YTD Goal YTD Actual Ministry Receipts $ 4,150,000 $ 4,116,479 Ministry Expenditures: Vision for Ministry : Worship 76,300 70,643 Evangelism 172,500 162,274 Spiritual Growth 227,670 220,209 Ministry Development 6,700 6,637 Congregational Life 139,330 123,406 Missions 498,000 493,978 Total $ 1,120,500 $ 1,077,147 Equipping for Ministry 1,909,000 1,879,930 Support for Ministry 1,114,100 1,087,782 Other Income-Interest $ ( 412) Total Ministry Expenditures $ 4,150,000 $ 4,044,446 Excess (Deficit) $ 0 $ 72,033 In a year of economic recession, when financial institutions failed, stock markets plummeted, and foreclosures plagued many in our country, we have been faithful in our financial stewardship to God through First Baptist Church. Our gifts in excess of $4,116,000 are the highest in our 200 year history! Even though we fell short of our $4,150,000 goal, we ended the year with excess funds of $72,000. Thank you for your continued financial support of this church and your realization that ministry depends upon your faith-fulness. We have demonstrated that financial stewardship is not a once-a-year consideration, but a week-to-week, month-to-month commitment requiring discipline and consistency.

Just as important as your financial commitment to your church, you have given and continue to give of your time and talents in service to our Lord. Many lives have been touched through the ministry of FBC – people are being helped and lives are being changed! We are all encouraged and strengthened in our mission as a church when God’s people prove themselves faithful.

GIVING CATEGORIES FY 2009

Regular Offering $4,116,479 Benevolence $ 8,935 Debt $ 76,175 Facilities Expansion $ 31,353 Sanctuary TV/Audio $ 3,275 Library Memorials $ 1,476 Lottie Moon $ 31,338 Global Missions $ 15,561 World Hunger $ 7,628 Annie Armstrong $ 8,230 Kathleen Mallory $ 5,223 Children’s Home $ 5,440 Grace Langley Memorial $ 1,175 Ralph Langley Scholarship $ 1,450 Memorials $ 8,156 Special Missions $ 47,088 TOTAL GIVING $4,368,982

“Whoever sows generously…” Start small and grow:

Step 1: Give. Step 2: Plan what to give. Step 3: Give regularly. Step 4: Increase giving. Step 5: Begin to give a tithe. Step 6: Encourage others to give. Step 7: Give beyond your tithe.

First Baptist Church Fall 2009

STEWARDSHIP UPDATE

“Whoever sows generously…” Seasoned gardeners will soon find seed catalogs arriving in their mailboxes. There are literally hundreds of differ-ent types of seeds available for planting. In God’s garden there are a multitude of plants offering beauty, wonder-ful aromas, fruits, and vegetables. A seed’s life-bearing quality makes it a perfect metaphor for the ministry of Jesus Christ and the Church. The seed sown by Jesus is the Word of God. As a seed holds the promise of life, so God’s Word holds the promise of new life. As a seed is alive, so God’s Word is living and active; it is full of power and energy. The ministry of the church, and thus the ministry of each Christian, is to sow seeds – seeds of faith, hope, and love. Taking the cue from Jesus, we are to sow seeds generously, without any thought of the cost, but with great passion and concern that all lives be given the opportunity to receive the Word of God. Sometimes we forget that our pri-mary purpose is to sow seeds of faith; we get too caught up in the mechanics, costs, obstacles, trying to decide ex-actly what will bring people to church, what people want, what will entice people to commitment. We focus so much on the problems of thin soil, seed-stealing birds, weeds, and thorns, that we expend too little energy on the joy and blessings of faith. We forget that God gives the growth; that our role is simply to sow the seeds – generously. As we approach the time of sowing seeds through our financial commitment to the church, the Stewardship Com-mittee asks that you also consider sowing seeds of generosity through your personal commitment of time - building relationship with God and building relationship with those who need to know the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Take a look around the hallways of our building during the first weeks of November – we will have dis-plays in which you can find information about the myriad opportunities of service in our church and in our com-munity. May God make us generous – with our finances and our time - so that those seeds sown in His name will have the best possible chance to grown and ripen and deliver their gift of life.

Commitment Sunday is November 22 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:6-11


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 43. October 22, 2009


First Baptist Church Fall Family Campout October 29-31, 2009 Come Early or Come Late

Lake Guntersville State Park

http://www.alapark.com/LakeGuntersville

For more information or to sign up contact Lake Guntersville State Park by calling…

CAMPGROUND: (256) 571-5455 RESORT Information: (256) 571-5440

We will be staying in Sections G, E and D. You will be required to make the first night deposit to hold your campsite and dates.

Each camper is responsible for making their own reservation Then contact the Adult Ministry Office…428-9403

to tell us your plans

CAMPING RATES Water & Electric Site $20.41 Full Hook-up Site - $23.77 Primitive Camping - $13.67

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Carver Bussey, especially to his wife, Madelyn Bussey Jeanine & Robert Doyle in the loss of her father and Lauren and Parker Doyle in the loss of their grandfather, Leon Roberts FBC staff member Joyice Hill in the loss of her father, Alvin Hill Family and friends of our member, Barbara Shrout Knickelbine FBC staff member Darryl McLaughlin in the loss of his grandmother, Carrie Ward OUR NEWEST Jonathan Robert Sentell, son of Bob and Angela Sentell, 278 St. Clair Drive, New Market, AL 35761, born October 19, 2009. Proud grandparents are Dr. Alan and Pam Jones, and great-grandparents Joe and Frances Jones.

Thank You, Thank You !!! ……...for the wonderful response to the World Crafts Fair last week. Your generosity will be much appreciated by the artisans who created these beautiful items and who depend upon your purchases for their livelihood.

MISSION SEASON IS ALMOST UPON US !

On Tuesday, November 3, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 118, Rodney Duncan, missionary to Malaysia, will share with us about his work there. Rodney is a relative of Jo Pryor and is on state-side assignment. You are encouraged to come hear him.

October 30, 2008


This Sunday is “time change Sunday.” Remember to “fall back” by setting your clocks back an hour. I always think of this as the time of

year that we “get an extra hour.” So what are you going to do with that extra hour that you get this Sunday? In addition to what we normally experience in Bible Study and worship on Sunday, you might want to consider using your “extra hour” for these special opportunities this week. This Sunday after our worship service in the Sanctuary we are offering an Open House of our new television and audio equipment in the Sanctuary. You will remember that new equipment was installed this summer to enhance the audio quality in the room and to allow us to broadcast in High Definition to our surrounding area. You might be interested in seeing what some of this amazing equipment looks like. In fact, you might like to consider being a volunteer with our AV team. Don’t rush off too quickly to lunch. After all, you have an extra hour! Linger for a few moments after worship this week and stay for the Open House.

Sunday night promises to be a rich experience as our Orchestra leads us in an All Saints’ Day Concert. You will be touched by the beauty of the music. Join us at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary for this special musical event. Bring a friend with you for the evening. Give thanks -- we get an extra hour! I invite you to share it with your friends at First Baptist Church.

Sunday, November 1 Sermon: “Love One Another”

John 13:34-35



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Music Makers will sing. FBC Orchestra will play.

Sanctuary Choir will sing.

Please see page 2 of this newsletter for information about the program.


Reminder: Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 1.


An All Saints’ Day Concert This Sunday, November 1, at 5:00 PM Presented by the FBC Orchestra

Our instrumentalists are excited about this concert! And, if you love the great hymn by Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” you will be excited by the concert, too. We open the concert with an incredible fantasia setting of the hymn and we will close the concert with a powerful arrangement of it. In between will be featured Mendelssohn’s Fifth Symphony (“Reformation”) which is also based on that great hymn tune. Add to all this the music of our FBC Big Band and the featured presence of Ken Watters, one of the premiere jazz artists in this part of the country, and you have one fine concert………certainly worth your inviting MANY friends to attend with you! Thanks for spreading the word. See you Sunday at Five. Music Ministry Dates to Note— November 1 Music Makers Choir sings for Worship November 8 FBC Orchestra plays at Under the Christmas Tree (VBC) November 13-14 LCT Retreat! November 15 Young Musicians Choir sings for Worship The Youth Choir — is gearing up for Christmas music. Not only will the students be involved in the Hanging of the Green (December 6 AM), but they will also share in a ministry setting that same evening at Brookdale Place. Then, on December 13 at 5 PM, our students will lead in an Advent Worship celebration in the Chapel. Rehearsals each Sunday are very important. Please note these dates and times: November 1 Youth Choir meets at 4 pm November 8 Rehearsal at the regular time of 5 PM November 15 Rehearsal at the regular time of 5 PM November 22 Likely no rehearsal at all, due to the Thanksgiving Dinner (stay tuned for confirmation)

You’re Invited to the Open House!

This Sunday, November 1 Following the 10:30 AM Worship Service,

visit the TV Broadcast and Audio Control Rooms in the Sanctuary to see our new audio

and broadcast equipment.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 1 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Worship Helpers-4’sWEE Hall 9:30 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Month-AQtr. Tm. C/St. Off 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 4:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 4:30 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM All Saints’ Day Orch Concert/Sanct 5:00 PM

Monday, November 2 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM

Tuesday, November 3 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Women on Mission/118 9:30 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, November 4 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Tea/Fashion Show Comm/142 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Tea/Fashion Show Comm/142 4:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Discipleship Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, November 5 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM Fashion Comm/316,325 9:00 AM-12:00 PM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:00 PM

Friday, November 6 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Scrapbooking/CLC 9:00 AM Fashion Comm/316,325 9:00 -11:00 AM Soutullo-Musgrove Reh/ 6:00 PM Sanct,Parlor Saturday, November 7 Ala. Baptist 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Keyboard Festival/227,CR,241 Soutullo-Musgrove Wedding/ 4:00 PM Sanct,Parlor


FYI Menu

Wednesday, November 4 Adults

Fried Chicken Creamed Potatoes

Green Beans Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week # 4 - October 25, 2009 Year -to-Date Goal: $305,440.00 Offering:

This Week $54,301.72 YTD $245,917.69


ATTENDANCE OCTOBER 25, 2009

Sunday School



POINSETTIAS

It is time to begin placing orders for poinsettias to be used during the Christmas season.

These may be given in memory of or in honor of someone. Forms are available at the welcome centers and in the Church Office. Cost is $8.50. Deadline for returning forms with payment to the Church Office is Sunday, November 22.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Saying "NO" is A Spiritual Challenge

Some kids have a very hard time accepting no as an answer. They argue, whine, or badger to try to persuade their parents to change their minds. Parents must use several strategies to help kids live within limits and be satisfied with what they have.

The solution is contentment. Contentment comes from trust in God. You may want to help children understand that their inability to accept no as an answer is really a spiritual issue. As children are able to understand, you can share with them about godliness and why you are taking such a strong stand in certain areas.

One dad remembered a key turning point with his teenage daughter when he approached her problem of arguing from a spiritual perspective, “Honey, I know you are just focusing on the limits I’m placing on you but would you think about something else just for a minute. Our relationship is important to me and I try to say yes to you whenever I can. Sometimes I have to say no and when I do, I feel hurt because you attack me as if I’m the enemy. Your persistence hurts our relationship. That’s why God talks about contentment in the Bible. Contentment is the ability to be grateful for what you already have instead of complaining about what you don’t have. Would you please think about my limits as a spiritual challenge for you?”

Children who are demanding and grow up with unchecked selfishness will have a harder time as they grow older. They won’t have the character necessary to understand and accept the limits that God may place on them. As you help your children address their arguing, badgering, and whining, you will begin to prepare them for a life of contentment. We all need to learn to live within boundaries, whether they are financial limits or health restrictions. Limits are a part of life. Contentment means that we say no to things we can’t afford or shouldn’t eat. If children can’t accept no from their parents, how will they ever learn to say no to themselves or accept limits from God? This tip comes from chapter five in the book, "Good and Angry: Exchanging Frustration for Character in You and Your Kids" By Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller.

Youth Choir Council These students were nominated by their peers to be on the Youth Choir Council:

Amanda Clark Anna Grace Eldridge

Ben Carrasquillo Eric Clark

Sarah Fowler Sarah Leffel

From Glen Adkins – CBF Missionary in Pecs, Hungary: I just want you to know that we are really enjoy-ing the newly renovated choir room. We are also having Bible Club in the room every Mon-day evening, because it is such a nice room.

The students are also enjoying all the other renovations. Every time we walk into the school we think of FBC Huntsville when we see the students sitting on the benches in the front area. They look great and are in use con-stantly.

I took a couple of photos at our last choir re-hearsal. They are posted here to the right.

I thank you again for all you and your group/church did for us and the Gandhi School.

I hope all is well in Huntsville.

Sincerely, Glen Adkins

Mitch McKenzie Sarah Sizemore

Britney Tallent-Smith Rachel Taylor

Erin Westbrook

Students enjoying the Corn MAiZE fellowship.

TESTIMONIES ABOUT PEOPLE WHO INFLUENCED OUR LIVES

Paul Nelson Written by Tom J. Owen

It has been my privilege to be associated with a great group of Christian men in our Sunday School class for more than 35 years. They continue to inspire me to stretch toward becoming more Christ-like. One of the men in this group, Paul Nelson, has continued to be an inspiration to me and our fellow members. He truly lives out one of his favorite scriptures, Micah 6:8: ”He has showed you, O man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly and to love kindness and mercy, and to humble yourself and walk humbly with God.” Paul is a brilliant electrical engineer but he is always modest concerning any personal accomplishment or his Christian ministries and life style. He always had a Bible on his desk at work. Inspired by Ken Roberson, a former member, he has managed, deliv-ered and nurtured a Meals on Wheels route for 20 years. Paul, accompanied by the Meals on Wheels director, delivered the first meals. He is a charter and faithful mem-ber of our church builder’s group, working at the Lincoln Mill Village, with Perry County mission trips, and on FBC in-house projects. He performs countless personal ministries, in which he builds, repairs, and renders any help needed to members of our class, FBC, or acquaintances who are ill. He often teaches the class or serves as department superintendent when asked or needed.

ANNE STONE Written by Lisa Greer Ceci

The first time I saw Anne Stone, she spoke to my Sunday School class about the Huntsville/Madison County Christian Women’s Job Corp. My first impression was, “The lady is passionate about that organization.” She made a believer out of me, as I’m sure she has many of you. The CWJC has helped hundreds of disadvantaged women receive educational and life skills and spiritual guidance. This enables them to make a better life for themselves and their children. The CWJC is successful because of volunteers and generous do-nations. I believe Anne’s passion for the organization helps spark that success. Anne also has a passion for teaching. She challenges others to fulfill their destinies. I don’t know how many high school students and church members she has taught through the years, but God has used her to touch a lot of lives, including mine. Thank God for people like Anne Stone.

TESTIMONIES (Continued)

ELLENE FLINN Written by former member Sarah Fortner

During our five years at First Baptist, we made many dear friends and were inspired by many. But I would have to say that Ellene Flinn had the most impact on our lives. About 30 years ago, Ellene started “Getting to Know You.” We came to First Baptist in February 1998 and that fall Janice Allison showed me an announcement about “Getting to Know You,” and told us we should really try it, especially since we were new to town and to the church. We took her good advice. Through this group we met and made friends with many who blessed our lives...people whom we would probably never have met in a church as large as First Baptist. Ellene and Jim were two of the people we probably would not have known had we not joined “Getting to Know You.” Ellene was always a very gracious lady, and is a fine, sweet Christian. We enjoyed knowing her and Jim and visiting in their home. We thank Ellene for reaching out and starting “Getting to Know You” so many years ago. Through it she has touched many lives. We thank her for the dear friends we made because of that outreach. We were blessed because of Ellene and “Getting to Know You.”

Consider Paul’s words to the church at Corinth as he writes to them about stewardship. Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to

God. 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 Are you willing to wrestle with the meaning of this passage as you apply it to yourself and your family? Take a look at the questions below in light of the passage from 2 Corinthians. • Am I aware of God’s overflowing provision and blessing in my own daily experience of faith? • Do I give attention and time to the outreach, ministry, and service needs of others? • Do I consider making financial contributions to my church a joyful act of worship? As we give focus to our stewardship practices during November, ask God to show you His vision of how you might grow in your ability to sow generously.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, 43, October 29, 2009


How can I learn more about FBC and her ministries? Meet FBC! is beginning a second session November 8. Meet FBC! is a class for young and median adults (average age 20s-50s) that will gather each Sunday to meet our ministerial staff and learn more about our church. This class is geared towards adults who have been visiting or are new members of our church. However, if you are not “new” but are still interested in hearing more from a particular minister, please join us in room 241A beginning November 8. You can be a part of any or all the classes, although if you are still finding your way at FBC, you’ll not want to miss any of the sessions! Together, we’ll meet others in this same journey and learn more about the ministries of our church! Our first three ministers will be Pam McDaniel, Dr. David Hull and Mike Pearce. For additionally details, please contact the Adult Ministries Office.

Women of FBC are invited to

tea and a show of fashion from the past 200 years.

Sunday, November 15, 2009 at noon

$10.00 per guest/ticket Tickets will be sold at the East Entrance

and in the Fellowship Hall on October 28; November 1 and 4; and November 8.

Seating is limited - get your tickets early!

WOMEN ON MISSION

On Tuesday, November 3, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 118, Rodney Duncan, missionary to Malaysia, will share with us about his work there. Rodney is a relative of Jo Pryor and is on state-side assignment. You are encouraged to come hear him.

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Syble & John Noblin in the loss of her uncle, John Fuller Angela & Mark Seanor in the loss of her stepfather, R.I. Dillard Doris Sneed in the loss of her brother, Walt Bishop

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Madelyn Bussey, Towry and Dee Jacks, and Billie and Rod Moak. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

FBC STITCHERS

Our stitching group will meet again on Thursday, November 5.

1:00- 4:00 p.m. at the CLC.

October 30, 2008


Last Sunday night our Orchestra led us in a beautiful concert. Hundreds of folks gathered in the Sanctuary for a special evening of Mendelssohn and a jazzy Big Band sound. Many thanks to Billy Orton and all of the musicians who made it a special night! Another big thanks to all of you who invited your friends to come with you to the event.

November is a month with a different kind of special event each Sunday night. The schedule for the month is below. I hope that you can join us for these opportunities to worship and learn. November 8 Deacon Ordination Service 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary Ordination service for Myrna Boyd and Heinrich DuBose-Schmitt November 15 Testimonies of Thanks 5:00 p.m. in the Chapel

Our Pastor will use various Psalms to prepare us for the season of Thanksgiving. Members of the congregation will have an opportunity to share personal testimonies of thanks.

November 22 Church Thanksgiving Dinner 5:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall

The church family gathers for a covered dish Thanksgiving Dinner and worship. We will celebrate the Lord’s Supper around the tables.

November 29 Missions Mosaic 5:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall

Our season for emphasizing missions around the world will come to life with video stories of missionaries and their work across the globe.

Sunday, November 8

New Message Series: “Whosoever Sows Generously”

Stewardship Emphasis

Sermon: “Sowing and Reaping” II Corinthians 9:6-11



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir anthem:

“Pilgrims’ Hymn”

December 18, 2008 November 5, 2009

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary

Deacon Ordination Service

Myrna Boyd and

Heinrich DuBose-Schmitt, newly elected deacons,

will be ordained.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 8 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Worship Helpers,4’s WEE Area 9:30 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/316 2:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Stephen Ministry/114 3:00 PM Stu. Min Team/Stu Office 4:00 PM MOPS Set-up/118 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 4:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM

Monday, November 9 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM

Tuesday, November 10 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, November 11 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Discipleship Comm/117 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Thursday, November 12 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:00 PM

Friday, November 13 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Saturday, November 14

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach Perry County – First Baptist Mission Development As a part of my sabbatical leave I recently visited with Frances Ford, Director of Seeds of Hope in Perry County. One of my objectives in visiting with her was to expand our mission work in Perry County. We already have a wonderful mission presence with the leadership of Gordon Perry and the over 50 hard-working volunteers we have every June in that area. The work now mainly focuses on construction and clean-up, sorely needed in that area. Now is the time to expand our work there with more opportunities for families and individuals using their own personal gifts to minister to that area. We are planning to offer more diversity of projects and ministry needed in Perry County. We also will provide complete arrival and departure flexibility to fit your schedule. We can schedule you over the weekend, for two days in the middle of the week, or any combination that fits your time frame. Ms. Ford was most helpful in providing excellent support for any project we are interested in. Now here is your part. Set aside a day, two days, or any number of days for you and your family or you as an individual to go to Perry County this coming June. Our week, including both weekends available, is Friday, May 28 – Sunday, June 6. Gordon’s crew work days are Sunday, May 30 – Friday, June 4. Whatever gift you have we can plan a special project around it. The needs are many so let’s dream a little about how we can minister to Perry County. Watch for an interest meeting early in 2010 to talk about possibilities. Perry County Thanksgiving Project One project that Ms. Ford is working on now is providing Thanksgiving boxes for families in need. If you would like to help, a list of food items is shown below. I will deliver these items to Perry County on behalf of First Baptist. The deadline for bringing food will be Wednesday, November 18. Please place all food items in the big blue box near the east entrance. Items needed: Canned items — green beans, cranberry sauce, peas, corn, peach or apple pie filling, canned fruit, yams. Box items - stuffing mix (turkey or chicken), instant potatoes, rice, dry peas or beans, mac and cheese. Meat - frozen turkey breast. Fresh turnip or collard greens Three Projects for Your Group. Planning your class or department mission projects? Here are some ideas I have information on needs for Christmas for the residents at the Partlow Developmental Center for people with intellectual disabilities. These residents have no family or outside support and there are many ways to minister to them. The Rock Family Worship Center sponsors a meal and worship service for the homeless each month. During the cold months they provide blankets, coats, and gloves. If you would like to collect any of these items or volunteer at the Rock’s monthly event let me know. We have gotten word that Baptist Student Center (BSC) at UAH is in need of new or gently used furniture in their center. If your group would like to buy or donate chairs or couches for them let me know. Foster Care Alliance is recruiting support for children in foster care sponsors for Christmas. Contact 535-4675 for more information. See Mike Pearce for other ideas for your mission work.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 8 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Worship Helpers,4’s WEE Area 9:30 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/316 2:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Stephen Ministry/114 3:00 PM Stu. Min Team/Stu Office 4:00 PM MOPS Set-up/118 4:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Deacon Ordination/Sanct 5:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM Monday, November 9 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM Prayer Partners/Parlor 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM Roundtable 1/242 12:00 PM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM Tuesday, November 10 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM Fashion Show Comm/242 4:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM HAP/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM Wednesday, November 11 Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Cradle Roll/Off Site 11:30 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Bldg Comm/114 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Quarterly Business Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift -Off/309-310 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Thursday, November 12 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Stewardship Volunteers/241 9:00 AM The Vine Board/Parlor 11:30 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Mommy Time/Parlor 6:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM Friday, November 13 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM MOPS Steering Comm/Library 9:00 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM LCT Retreat/FH,Sanct,241,141 6:30 PM Saturday, November 14 Flower Arranging/140 8:00 AM-2:00 PM LCT Retreat/CR,141,241,Sanct9:00 AM-11:00 PM Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM Fashion Show Set-up/141,FH 12:00 PM-5:00 PM

FYI Menu

Wednesday, November 11

Adults Grilled Chicken

Broccoli w/Cheese Sauce Mashed Potatoes - Dessert

Salad




STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 5—November 1, 2009

Year -to-Date Goal: $370,595.00 Offering:

This Week $107,950.33 YTD $353,868.02


ATTENDANCE November 1, 2009

Sunday School



The Children and Staff of the Alabama Baptist

Children’s Home cordially invite you to

Open House to express our appreciation

for your prayers and support Sunday,

December 6, 2009 2 to 5 p.m.

1404 16th Avenue, Southeast Decatur, Alabama

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR CHILD? So...what do you want for your children when they grow up? To be happy, to be financially successful, to have a loving stable relationship with a spouse and children, to be fulfilled in their work.... How is that different from any other family on your street, in your neighborhood or at your school? The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:32-33, “Only people who don't know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father in heaven knows that you need all of these. But more than anything else, put God's work first and do what he wants.” If you are a Christian, your first and foremost desire for your child should be that they have a deep and abiding love for Almighty God, an unshakable foundation based on the Word of God and an intimate personal relationship with His Son Jesus, the Christ. … “Then the other things will be yours as well.” Stephen Covey in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, lists as habit 2: Begin with the end in mind. “Begin with the End in Mind means to begin each day, task, or project with a clear vision of your desired direction and destination, and then continue by flexing your proactive muscles to make things happen.” “Begin with the end in mind” for a Christian parent means that every day you create opportunities to help your child become more Christlike. You will take seriously the command found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9... “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” An old Chinese proverb says, “Unless we change our direction, we are likely to end up where we are going.” Which direction are you going?


SCRAPBOOKING The next scrapbooking event will be held on Friday, November 20, at the CLC. Please contact Kay for more information or to sign up, 828-2700 or [email protected]. Did you know... ...that the American Heart Association recommends that adults do moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for at least 30 minutes 5 days out of the week, or vigorous-intensity aerobic activ-ity for at least 20 minutes 3 days out of the week? The AHA also recommends that adults engage in maintaining or increasing muscular strength and endurance (weight or resistance workout) at least 2 days each week as a part of a healthy lifestyle. (For more info, please visit http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200013) Just because it’s getting cold and rainy outside doesn’t mean that you can’t get in your exercise. The FBC Christian Life Center offers a walking track, a basketball court and racquetball court, and many aerobic and weight lifting machines indoors for your convenience. Don’t let the weather keep you from maintaining a healthy exercise routine!

Poinsettias It is time to place orders for poinsettias to be used during the Christmas season. These may be given in memory of or in honor of someone. Forms are available at the welcome centers and in the Church Office. Cost is $8.50. Deadline for returning forms with payment to the Church Office is Sunday, November 22.

Women of FBC are invited to tea and a show of fashion from the past 200 years.

Sunday, November 15, 2009 at noon $10.00 per guest/ticket

Deadline to purchase tickets is this Sunday, November 8.

Bicentennial Water Color Prints Available

We have a limited number of the water color prints depicting the five churches from our 200-year history. These prints are available for those who were unable to attend the Bicentennial Weekend events in June. These are copies of the beautiful portraits now hanging in the East Entrance hallway that were painted by local artist Ed Starnes. The prints are 8x10 and ready for framing. If you live out of town I will get the prints in the mail to you at no charge. If you live locally we can arrange a time for you to get the prints from me at the church. Please call or email me at the information below. These prints will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Patty Atherton Phone: 256-881-3139 Email: [email protected]

* * * * *

Bicentennial Note Cards

Note cards depicting the Bicentennial portraits of our five churches, done by artist Ed Starnes, are now available for sale. Each set has 2 copies of each of the five prints (10 cards total). Cost is $5 (cost of production) . Note cards will be for sale on Sundays before and after First Fellowship in the Fellowship Hall and in the East entrance and also on Wednesday evenings. Contact Scott Boothe (882-9877, [email protected]) with any questions.

God’s Example of Generosity

It’s probably one of our first lessons in life—and one of our hardest: learning to give to others. With constant guidance from parents and siblings, we struggled to share what we had, namely our toys or

the occasional candy bar, with those around us. As if that wasn’t painful enough, we were also reminded that we needed to do it with a good attitude. Sharing isn’t just a one-time lesson for kids; it’s a lifelong lesson for all of God’s children. And instead of getting simpler over the years, sharing seems to get more and more difficult. The older we get, the more “possessions” we have to potentially be asked to share. We have time, talents, skills, finances, wisdom, strength—and so much more. With so many resources to draw from, generosity seems to get compli-cated. Not only do we need to choose what to share, now we have to discern things like: to whom, when, how, how much, and for how long should our gen-erosity be given? Thankfully, our heavenly Father still guides us in how to be-come the cheerful givers He loves. It all starts with a simple heart decision to give (2 Corinthians 9:7). God desires us to sow seeds of faith, hope and love and He will bring the growth.

Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us of how God sets the example of generosity by His gift of salvation by grace to us. 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. How will you respond to God’s call to sow seeds on his behalf? Adapted from “Lessons in Sharing” by Janine Perry, Christianity Today.


The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 45, November 5, 2009


“Journey” A New Bible Study

Fellowship Group Sundays

9:15 a.m. - Room 241-E

Led by Wayne Hostetter and Tom Houser

This new Sunday School class is designed to be leader-led discussions, focusing on practical application of Biblical truths, relationship-building and outreach. Open to anyone not currently enrolled in a Sunday School Class.

For more information about this class, please contact Betty Lunsford at 881-8278 or Jean Houser at 880-2174.

* * * * * * * * * First Baptist Church Presents…

Colorado and the Rocky Mountains

May 15 - 23, 2010 $699 PER PERSON, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY…

* Motor coach transportation * 8 nights’ lodging including 4 consecutive nights in scenic Colorado * 14 meals: 8 breakfasts and 6 dinners * Visit HISTORIC MANITOU SPRINGS at the foot of famous PIKES PEAK * Visit the UNITED STATES OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER * Tour the GARDEN OF THE GODS * Visit the UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY * See COLORADO'S "NATURAL WONDER" - the ROYAL GORGE * and much more

Contact the Adult Ministry Office for more information.

Family Matters

No new members or deaths to report.

FELLOWSHIP CLUB

Friday, November 13 10:00 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Program

Huntsville Hospital - Madison Complex

(Plans and Dreams)

Speaker: Burr Ingram

Menu

Chicken Pot Pie, Fruit Salad, Roll, Dessert

Call Bert Gover, 536-8317,

for reservations.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Hugh Dudley and Harold Chandler. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


Whoever sows generously . . .

The landscape gardener looked surprised. "Will you say that again, ma'am?" The lady-of-the-house waved a hand to include the several-acre woodland she was having landscaped. "I want a picture of how it will all look when it's finished--fish pond and rose garden included. Could it look like this sketch in Better Homes and Gardens?" "Hard to say, you know," the man said....... "We're dealing here with living things. I can show you a pattern, I guess, but these things grow. Okay? So you're going to have to keep on planting, cultivating, and trimming. Who's to say what it will look like some day? It's just never going to get finished growing!" ... "I had no idea I was hiring a philosopher," [my friend] said over coffee. "But that little speech reminded me that growth doesn't stop when we reach our full height."

Citation: Julie Masters Bacher in The Quiet Heart. Christianity Today, Vol. 34, no. 12.

We are talking about sowing generously in our stewardship emphasis these days. Plants, gardens, ploughs and seeds greeted us as we came to worship on Sunday. Remember the lesson of the garden – we are supposed to keep on growing! We never are finished. Instead God wants us to continue our growth until we become more and more like Jesus. Are you growing in your stewardship? Have you moved beyond the level of generosity that you had five years ago? More important than the growing of a church budget or the church membership rolls is the growth of Christians. One way that we can measure our growth is by the way we are expanding in generosity. Maybe we need to talk about this. Let’s do that on Sunday morning as we consider the topic “Giving and Laughing.” Bring your Bible and your smiles to church as we talk about the fact that “God loves a cheerful giver.”

Sunday, November 15

Message Series: “Whoever Sows Generously”

Sermon: “Giving and Laughing”

II Corinthians 9:6-11 Themes: Joyous Giving



Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Young Musicians will sing

and ring handbells. Anthem by Sanctuary Choir

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Chapel

Testimonies of Thanks

Our Pastor will use various Psalms to

prepare us for the season of Thanksgiving. Members of the

congregation will have an opportunity to share personal testimonies of thanks.


Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 15 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Worship Helpers, 4’s/WEE 9:30 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Ladies Tea/Fashions/FH 12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Testimonies of Thanks/Chapel 5:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM

Monday, November 16 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM Educ. Music Assoc. of 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Ala. Baptist Conv/FH,CR,118,Sanct Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Tuesday, November 17 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM CWJC Graduation Rehearsal/Chapel 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, November 18 WEE Book Fair/WEE Hall 7:30 AM HAP Training/241 9:00 AM Precept Bible Study/342 9:00 AM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Trustees/117 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift-Off/309-310 6:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Personnel Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM Thursday, November 19 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM WEE Book Fair/WEE Halls 7:30 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM Choose Life Staff/Parlor 10::00 AM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM Bldr’s A Fellowship/118 4:30 PM

Friday, November 20 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM WEE Book Fair/WEE Hall 7:30 AM Hix Birthday Party/Parlor 2:00 PM Saturday, November 21 Huntsville Music Study Club 7:30 AM-1:00 PM 2nd Flr, Sanct, Parlor


December 17th – 7:30 pm December 18th – 7:30 pm December19th – 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm December 20th – 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm

Tickets will be available beginning November 30. It is not too early to plan your late December activities! For instance, WHICH presentation(s)

of the Living Christmas Tree are you planning to attend? And, which ones are you planning to provide tickets for your friends, neighbors, and associates? The sound of this year’s choir is incredible. Their music is inspiring. The overall musical impact of the Tree is quite remarkable as over 200 musicians sing and play their hearts out for the glory of God and in celebration of the most blessed event of all, the birth of Christ. Plan NOW to attend this year’s LCT! Dates to note— November 13-14 LCT Retreat at FBC Friday night session 7:00-8:45 pm Saturday morning session begins with snack breakfast at 8:30 am November 15 Youth Choir rehearsal (important) November 22 Men’s Ensemble sings for Thanksgiving Banquet (5 pm) December 6 Hanging of the Green (morning) LCT Construction (Afternoon) Story and Song (Chapel): 4:30 p.m. — A service for families with children, celebrating Christmas through the Nativity narrative with familiar carols. 6:00 p.m. — A contemplative service, celebrating the Christmas story with readings and music to direct our attention to the coming of the Messiah, and further, to the Second Coming at the End of the Age.

December 7-8 Decoration of the Living Christmas Tree (come and help!) December 13 Advent Worship Service in the evening (led by our youth)

(Continued on page 5)

Sowing Generously Update: Did you know that FBC just sent a Care Package to all of our college students? Yes, your tithes and offerings through our church budget shipped 80+ packages to hungry and sleep-deprived students.

Here are what two students said… "Thanks so much for the care package!! It made my day :)" "Hey Jamie! Just wanted to let you know that I got the care package from the church! It was great!! Thanks so much!! :)"

Thank you for sowing generously into their lives and stomachs (even if you did not know you were doing so!).


FYI Menu

Wednesday, November 18

Adults Beef Stew

Mexican Cornbread Dessert

Salad






This Week $60,990.56 YTD $414,858.58


ATTENDANCE—NOVEMBER 8, 2009

Sunday School



LOST A very valuable and sentimental wood-carved ball point pen, tan with dark blotches. Was left on pew cushion in our Sanctuary on Sunday morning, November 1. If found, please call Tom Owen, 536-8136.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool Have you thought about The Practice of WORSHIP and the PRESENCE of CHILDREN? James H. Ritchie, Jr., says in his book by this name that we are always in rehearsal as we attempt to practice worship. This is such a reminder for us as we prepare to welcome the children from our 4-year-old Sunday School classes into our worship service. Their parents are nervously thinking about how those around them will react to their curious children. It is our hope that you will remember, once again, to be excited about worshiping our God. We can learn as much from them as they are learning from us. The wide-eyed wonder they have at singing a song of praise that they know, excitement as they see their older siblings sing in the choir, helping to pass the offering plate, being allowed to help hold the hymnal or Bible, shaking hands with those around them in welcome, bowing their heads to pray to the God who loves them even more than their parents. Have you taken the time to begin to think of ways to help them feel welcome as they enter into worship? The parents are praying for their children but also for you as they prepare for this huge step in their child’s spiritual journey – I hope that you are also preparing your hearts to encourage and accept their excitement as God does, with love and delight! Remember that Worship is the central act of the gathered community of God- this includes children!

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AKA – Parents’ Night Out! December 4, 2009 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Babies – Kindergarten in Main Building 1st – 6th Grade in CLC NEW POLICY – payment required to secure reservation. $5.00 per child/$15.00 max Deadline for reservations: November 22, 2009

Care Packages ready for shipment

January 17-18 Sunday & Monday of MLK, Jr Weekend at Seek Adventures Camp in Hazel Green Cost: $25.00 a person / $100 max a family

Includes Sunday afternoon & Monday on the Ropes Course, Meals Sunday night and Monday lunch, and worship on Sunday night.

Preparing to Sow Seeds of Generosity: Much as a farmer prepares the soil, we must prepare our hearts to respond to God’s call of generosity. Generosity is more than a check written to the church or a day spent on a service project. It is a relation-

ship, a relationship with God and with others through which we administer His Grace. In 1 Peter 4:10, we are called to use the gifts we have received to serve others “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faith-fully administering God's grace in its various forms.” Just as God’s gift of grace to us is unconditional, our response of generosity should also be unconditional. God clearly cares about our motive for giving and serving. In praising the widow’s gift of a mite, Christ showed he is more interested in motive than amount. Our stewardship emphasis verse reminds us that “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” How do we prepare our hearts to make the transition from conditional to cheerful giving and serving? Cheerful giv-ing begins when we recognize that God designed giving back to Him with our time and money as a form of worship to bring us closer to His overflowing provision. Have you cheerfully prepared the soil to carry out the work God has planned for you?

CHURCH THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION Sunday Evening, November 22

5:00 p.m. - Fellowship Hall

Our church will provide the turkey, dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls, and drinks. Members are asked to bring side dishes of salads, vegetables, casseroles, and desserts.

LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE PARKERS

Soon there will be many guests here attending the LCT presentations. One of the first people they encounter will be one of the “Parkers.” Guests regularly comment on the friendliness and helpfulness of the parking team. To volunteer to be a member of the LCT parking team contact Hunter Hoskins at [email protected] or 256-776-5619.

Bicentennial Note Cards

Note cards depicting the Bicentennial portraits of our five churches, done by artist Ed Starnes, are now available for sale. Each set has two copies of each of the five prints (ten cards total). Cost is $5 (cost of production) . Note cards will be for sale

on Sundays before and after First Fellowship in the Fellowship Hall and in the East Entrance and also on Wednesday evenings. Contact Scott Boothe (882-9877, [email protected]) with any questions.

Music and Worship (Continued)

Halogen, a 5-man contemporary a capella Christian band, will be performing at a benefit concert at Trinity United Methodist Church on Saturday, November 21, at 7:00 p.m. Afton Miller, the daughter of one of the band members, is 21 months old, and just recently underwent surgery to remove her right kidney and a large tumor. Her prognosis is good, but these things are very expensive and require constant follow-up examinations. All proceeds from this concert go to helping the Miller family defray the cost of Afton's treatment and future care. Please plan to attend this fun-filled concert and donate generously to help this little girl and her family.

From The Messenger, January 24, 1952………..

SOME CHRISTIANS

Some Christians are like wheel-barrows---not good unless pushed. Some are like canoes---they need to be paddled. Some are like kites---if you don't keep a strong hold on them they will fly away. Some are like kittens---they are more contented when petted. Some are like footballs---you can't tell which way they are going to bounce next. Some are. like balloons---full of wind and likely to blow up unless handled carefully. Some are like trailers---no good unless pulled. Some are like buzzards---they get hold of a stink and come quickly. Others are filled with the Holy Spirit---Thank God for These!

-Selected.

Perry County Thanksgiving Project A reminder that we are collecting food items for Thanksgiving boxes to be delivered to needy families in Perry County. If you would like to help, a list of food items is shown below. Mike Pearce will de-liver these items to Perry County on behalf of First Baptist. The deadline for bringing food will be Wednesday, November 18. Please place all food items in the big blue box near the east entrance. Items needed: Canned items — green beans, cranberry sauce, peas, corn, peach or apple pie filling, canned fruit, yams. Box items - stuffing mix (turkey or chicken), instant potatoes, rice, dry peas or beans, mac and cheese. Meat - frozen turkey breast (place in Kitchen freezer) Fresh turnip or collard greens

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 46, November 12, 2009


How can I learn more about FBC and her ministries? Meet FBC! has begun a second 12-week session. You are invited to be a part of the class. Meet FBC! is a class for young and median adults (average age 20s-50s) that will gather each Sunday to meet our ministerial staff and learn more about our church. This class is geared toward adults who have been visiting or are new members of our church. However, if you are not “new” but are still interested in hearing more from a particular minister, please join us on Sunday mornings at 9:15 AM in room 241A. You can be a part of any or all the classes, although if you are still finding your way at FBC, you’ll not want to miss any of the sessions! Together, we’ll meet others in this same journey and learn more about the ministries of our church! Ministers scheduled for the next two weeks are: Nov.15 David Hull Nov. 22 Mike Pearce. For additional details, please contact the Adult Ministries Office ([email protected]; 428-9403).

You are cordially invited to attend the graduation ceremony for Christian Women’s Job Corps® of Madison County, Inc.

Sunday, November 22 at 2:00 pm

First Baptist Church, Chapel 600 Governors Drive

Reception immediately following

LIBRARY INFORMATION

Beginning December 1 our Church Library will have new Wednesday hours. They are:

Wednesdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 5:00.p.m. The opening times for Sundays will remain the same.

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Josh Alford 1404 Spartan Plz Apt B Huntsville AL 35808-1356 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Brenda & Jim Miller in the loss of her mother, Flora Carter Michelle & Mark Reavis in the loss of her mother, LaRue Bloir OUR NEWEST Graeme Clark Williams, son of Haylea and Chase Williams, 2606 Calumet Drive SE, Brownsboro, AL 35741, born November 4, 2009.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Jack and Kitty Sisco, Doris J. (Bishop) Sneed, and Jimmy and Linda Thompson. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Eagle Scout Project

Our member, Allan Morgan, is finishing his Eagle Scout Service Project which was collecting old and tattered US Flags from around the city. He and Troop 70 will be conducting a flag retirement ceremony at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, on the UA Huntsville campus at the flagpoles near the Shelby Center (off of Sparkman Dr.). Allan invites all of those who have turned in flags, those who have helped him with his project, and all veterans who are members of FBC. All are welcome! He has collected over 110 flags. If you have questions call Allan at 880-1544 or email at [email protected] (underscore between david and toni).

October 30, 2008


“Whoever Sows Generously. . .” These words are our theme for the church stewardship emphasis this year. Last Sunday we studied how laughing and giving go together. We have included a printed copy of my message from last Sunday for you to review as you make your preparations for Commitment Sunday. I hope that you will approach the filling out of your Commitment Card with prayer and

thanksgiving. Let God guide you to be a gardener who “sows generously.” As we bring our Commitment Cards to worship we will talk about “Abounding and Thanking” as our theme for this week. Sowing and reaping leads to giving and laughing which produce abounding and thanking! Sunday night is a time to express our thanks to God during our church dinner. Bring a covered dish and join us at 5:00 p.m. for a time of fellowship, worship, praise, and thanksgiving. The evening will conclude with an observance of the Lord’s Supper around the tables. The night promises to be a special one for us all. During the week of Thanksgiving we will not have a Fellowship Supper or Prayer Meeting, so I hope that you will let Sunday night be the event that leads you into a wonderful holiday week. As you prepare for Thanksgiving you may enjoy the following words by Eugene Peterson:

Is wonder-induced gratitude the most fundamental of human responses, the emotion most congruent with life? Johnny Bergman was a young man in my congregation. He and his wife were enthusiastic participants, but then the weeds of worldly care choked their young faith. They acquired children; they became suddenly wealthy and their lives filled up with boats and cars, house-building and social engagements. They were in worship less and less frequently and then not at all. After a two-year absence, on a bright winter Epiphany Sunday, Johnny was there again. Surprised to see him, I said, "Johnny! What brought you to worship today?" He said, "I woke this morning feeling so good, so blessed, so alive -- so created -- I just had to say thank you, and this is the only place I could think of to say it adequately. I wanted to say it to Jesus." --Eugene H. Peterson, "Birthing," Christian Century, January 6-13, 1999, 27.

Join us this Sunday as we come say our thanks to Jesus! I pray that you will have a wonderful, joyous Thanksgiving. I am most thankful to be your pastor.

Sunday, November 22

Sermon: “Abounding and Thanking” II Corinthians 9:6-11

Themes: Blessing, Abundance, and Thanksgiving

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Music by Youth Band


Sanctuary Worship—10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir -

“There shall a Star from Jacob come forth” (Mendelssohn)

FBC Orchestra will play.


Thanksgiving Dinner and Lord’s Supper

Music by Men’s Ensemble

Members are asked to bring side dishes of vegetables, salads, and desserts.


Ministry Calendar

STAFF NEWS

Hope Davis officially began as our full-time Ministry Assistant in the Adult Ministries Office November 11. Hope works closely with Pam McDaniel (Minister to Young & Median Adults) and Mark Seanor (Minister to Experienced Adults). Hope is typically the first person you will talk to when contacting the Adult Ministries Office. Her duties will involve providing support for all the Adult Sunday School classes and posting attendance. A typical week will involve multiple mailouts and the entering of information into our church database, and answering many phone calls. Her technical

gifts, love for people, as well as her attention to detail are already appreciated by those who have met and worked with her. Feel free to stop by the Adult Ministries Office (first office on your right coming from the East Welcome Center) and welcome Hope to the staff at First Baptist Church.

Sowing Seeds in His Name - Our Grateful Response God’s commandment to give is clear – we are told in Malachi 3:10 to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse and watch to " see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” However God desires more than just tithing of our financial resources. Matthew 23:23 reads “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices. …But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former” (Matthew 23:23). Jesus’ primary point, of course, is to criticize the scrupulous tithing of even a few herbs grown in the back garden if it is at the expense of fundamental issues of justice, integrity, and mercy. But one might have expected Jesus to say, “You should have practiced the latter, and let the herbs take care of themselves”—or some thing equally dismissive. Instead, he says, “You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” There are a myriad of opportunities for service in our church and in our community, opportunities to develop long-term relationships within one area of service or to apply your spiritual gifts through multiple areas of service. The stewardship displays around our church this month highlight existing areas of service and contain information on how you can administer God’s grace through a relationship of Christian generosity. How you have chosen to worship God through your financial commitments and service commitments? What seeds will you sow in his name this Stewardship Sunday? Adapted from “Are Christians’ Required to Tithe?” by D.A Carson.

‘Tis the Season for Praying and Giving Please join us. Tuesday, December 1 10:00 a.m. - Room 118

Focus on Hungary, Ukraine, and the Dominican Republic

Thursday, December 3 11:15 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Speakers: Michael & Hope Stephens, Missionaries to North Africa/Middle East

Lunch will be provided by members of Women on Mission.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 22 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Worship Helpers,4’s WEE Area 9:30 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM CWJC Graduation/Chapel 1:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Thanksgiving Dinner/ 5:00 PM Lord’s Supper/FH

Monday, November 23 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM WEE Thanksgiving/107,114 9:00 AM MOPS Setup/118 9:00 AM MOPS/118 9:00 AM WEE Thanksgiving/107,114 9:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM Tuesday, November 24 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct,241 6:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM

Wednesday, November 25 No activities Thursday, November 26 Thanksgiving Day Offices and CLC Closed Friday, November 27 Offices and CLC Closed Saturday, November 28 No activities. Dominican Mission Team - November 21-28

A 25th Anniversary Living Christmas Tree ornament has been created as a keepsake for this special year of celebration. The 4-inch silver ornament has a silver ribbon for hanging and comes in a black v e l o u r b a g . Ornaments will be a v a i l a b l e f o r

purchase beginning the first Sunday of Advent, November 29th. They will be sold on Sundays in the East Entrance after First Fellowship and before and after the 10:30 a.m. worship service. They will also be available in Fellowship Hall at the Wednesday night supper. Cost is $7 each.


We all know that one of the best things about Thanksgiving is all the delectable food! While we should have every reason to celebrate God’s blessing and abundance in our lives by sharing in several servings of scrumptious sustenance, all this food-eating doesn’t do much for our waistlines. So after you’ve spent a day or two enjoying food, fellowship, and more food over the Thanksgiving weekend, rest assured that the Christian Life Center gym

and exercise areas will be open and waiting Monday morning just for you! This holiday season, remember to eat, drink, and exercise all for the glory of God! (1 Cor. 10:31)

CLC Holiday Hours In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Christian Life

Center will close at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25, will remain closed through the weekend, and will reopen at

8:00 a.m. on Monday morning, November 30. Enjoy the holidays!

FYI Sunday, November 22

Thanksgiving Meal and Lord’s Supper

Turkey, Dressing, Cranberry Sauce, Rolls, and Dessert will be furnished.

Members are asked to bring side dishes of vegetables, casseroles, and desserts.

NO WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEAL

OR ACTIVITIES.

STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week # 7 - November 15 Year-to-Date Goal: $500,905.00 Offering:

This Week $131,136.12 YTD $545,994.70


ATTENDANCE—November 15, 2009

Sunday School Preschool 83 Children 138 Students 122 Adults 709 Brookdale—Regular Attenders 22 New Members 3 Visitors 25 TOTAL 1102


Have you voted yet?

The Huntsville Times has opened the voting for "Best Holiday Event" and the Living Christmas Tree is one of the choices. Here is the link to cast your vote: http://blog.al.com/breaking/2009/11/vote_for_your_favorite_holiday.html Pass the word!

Children’s Ministry Cindy Russell, Minister to Children GOING TO CHURCH I love to sleep in late. In fact, I consider it a real treat not to set the alarm clock. Saturday is our traditional day to sleep in, even if sleeping is just until 6:30; it’s a matter of mind set. However, Sunday’s have never been days to sleep in at our house. In fact, when the children were small we might even get up 15 minutes earlier than necessary, just to make sure we were on time. Why? Because we go to church on Sunday. I don’t always crawl out of bed eagerly on Sunday mornings, but we always get up and go. You don’t have to go to church to be saved or even to worship the Lord, but I believe church is very important. It has al-ways been a priority for our family for several reasons: I want to show God He’s a priority. It just doesn’t make sense to say, “God, I really appreciate all the things you’ve done for me and all the blessings You’ve given me this week and I hope You’ll be with me next week, but I just can’t make it to church, today. I know You’ve set this day aside for us to worship You, but I’ve just got better things to do.” We are commanded to make the Lord our number one priority. Sadly, we’re sinful and we rarely make Him number one in our lives. But going to church is a small way to show God that we do want to make Him our priority. Matthew 22:37: “Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’” Worship You don’t have to go to church to worship the Lord. You can and should worship Him with your whole life. But scheduled time set aside to worship the Lord with other Christians has special value, too. Sometimes it is accompanied by warm fuzzies and sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it’s something deeper that you may only realize the significance of later. Worship is work, not just something to make us feel good. Wor-ship is a sacrifice we make that pleases the Lord, but it also benefits our spirits. Ro-mans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - This is your spiritual act of worship.” Psalm 34:9: “Worship GOD if you want the best wor-ship opens doors to all his goodness.”

http://blog.al.com/breaking/2009/11/vote_for_your_favorite_holiday.html



Special Days and Holiday Suggestions For Those Who Are Grieving

From “Understanding Losses and Grief” by Cheri Rogers

Special days and holidays can be stressful even when things are going well, but when you are grieving they can be especially difficult. Grief issues can resurface. What should be a joyful time can be a time of deep sadness. Perhaps the following suggestions will help you get through this time with less pain. 1. Focus on the reason for the day or season Christmas is the birthday of Jesus. Meditate on His birth, the journey to Bethlehem. On Thanksgiving Day, your anniversary, or birthdays count your blessings for the good years you celebrated together. 2. Acknowledge your feelings. 3. Have a plan for times that you know will be difficult. Don’t hesitate to do something different and new. Change can be good. Making new traditions and memories can also be helpful. 4. Spend time with people who are uplifting and supportive. 5. Do not allow yourself to go into a month-long “woe is me” pity party. 6. Praise God for everything you can possibly think of: health, sight, hearing, family, friends, etc. God is near as we praise Him (Psalm 22:3) 7. Attend functions that have been meaningful to you in the past. Focus on the good memories you and your loved one shared. 8. Attend a function that you have wanted to attend, but your loved one was never interested in attending. 9. Do something for someone else. Giving to others will warm your heart. Donate gifts or money in your loved one’s memory. 10. During Christmas bake goodies for others who may not have the time that you have during the holiday season. 11. Volunteer to serve meals at a local shelter. Take care of yourself. Set aside time daily with your Heavenly Father. He will restore your soul.

Remember: All members of your family will also be missing your loved one. Share memories knowing that listening helps.

COME HELP DECORATE THE LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE Monday, December 7, 9 til 1 and 6 to 8 Tuesday, December 8, 9 til 2 and 6 til 8

Wednesday, December 9, 9 til 2 Lunch and childcare provided for the 9 til 2 work sessions. Sign up in Sunday School or call or email Kristen Jobes at 698-6754,

[email protected]

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS James & Alice Mason 1509 Fell Ave NE Huntsville AL 35811-2009 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Al & Deborah Mason in the loss of his mother, Anna Mason Janie Tidwell in the loss of her niece, Winona Turner

Thanks Thank you notes have

been received from Ester Dyar, Pheroba Ann Thomas (former staff member), Mary Ann & Bob Prince,

and Kitty B. Sisco. These have been placed on the bulletin board across from

the Church Office.

Church Library Closed Wednesday, November 25

Upcoming Benefit Concert:

Halogen, a 5-man contemporary a capella Christian band, will be performing at a benefit concert at Trinity United Methodist Church on Saturday, November 21, at 7:00 p.m. Afton Miller, daughter of one of the band members, is 21 months old, and just recently underwent major surgery to remove her right kidney and a large tumor. Her prognosis is good, but these things are very expensive and require constant follow-up examinations. All proceeds from this concert go to helping the Miller family defray the costs of Afton's treatment and future care. Please plan to attend this fun-filled concert and donate generously to help this little girl and her family.

“Giving and Laughing” 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Stewardship Emphasis “Whoever Sows Generously. . .”

November 15, 2009

David W. Hull

A mother was preparing her young child for church. After making sure that the clothes were

on right and the Bible was in hand, she gave the child a quarter to put in the offering plate. Then, with a loving smile, she gave the boy an additional nickel to keep for himself. After church that day

the mother noticed that her young son still had the quarter in his hand. She asked him why he had

not put it in the offering plate during the worship service. He replied, “The Bible says that God loves a cheerful giver. I knew that I would be more cheerful if I kept the quarter and put the nickel

in the offering plate instead!”

We can laugh at that story but if we are honest most of us would admit that laughter and

giving seldom go together. We seem to have the understanding of the little boy that we will be more cheerful if we keep all that we can and give away as little as we can. This feeling is especially

true right now in these tough economic times. Surely it will make us more cheerful to hold on to

what we can accumulate, won’t it? It may sound a bit strange, but today I want to talk about how laughter and giving go together.

I.

Laughter and giving go together when we have the right attitude about giving. The attitude that we have about giving our money to God determines a great deal about the emotions that we

experience while we are giving. Sometimes our giving is motivated by the wrong perspective.

Some people think of giving to God as being like a tax payer. They view the tithe as a form of religious income tax. They are afraid that any stewardship sermon will come across as a decree

for more taxation and they guard their wallets and put up their defenses about such a measure. I

know we all understand the need for government to have taxes that raise financial support for

services, but I don’t know many people who just love to pay taxes and do so with laughter in their hearts. Taxes are not a voluntary contribution but are mandated by government. There is no fun in

that. As long as we see stewardship as some kind of ecclesiastical taxation there will be no

laughter to accompany our giving. Sure, we may put some money in the offering plate along the way but our mindset will be like the little boy who felt he would be more cheerful if he could keep

more than he gave.

Others think of giving to God in terms of being a consumer. They think of giving to the church as a means of buying the service or ministry of the church. If there are good programs,

worship, and fellowship that a family can experience they are willing to chip in some money to pay

for the expenses of such a ministry. This attitude of the consumer sometimes causes more joy in

giving as long as the product received is favorable. However, when worship begins to lose its stimulation or when programs do not seem to be meeting needs or when someone has hurt your

feelings in the church, it is easy for the consumer giver to simply look for another “ministry store” from which to purchase religious services. Any joy from this consumer mentality is often

temporary.

The Apostle Paul offers a better image for us to consider. He describes the Christian steward

as a gardener. Paul was trying to collect an offering from the church at Corinth to be used for the Christians in Jerusalem who were suffering severe economic hardships. The Corinthians had

committed to give some money but had not yet made good on their pledge. Paul was gently

reminding them of their commitment and encouraging them to make this gift. He did not want them to think of this gift as a tax, but he did want them to give willingly and voluntarily (v.5). He

was not trying to extort or exact money from them but was trying to motivate them to have the

right attitude for giving. He encouraged his readers to think of giving in terms of planting a garden (v. 6). The principles of agriculture also apply to stewardship. When you sow sparingly you can

expect to reap sparingly. No one can plant only a few seeds and expect an overabundance of

harvest. However, when the gardener is generous in planting the seeds then the harvest has a much greater chance of being bountiful.

There is a certain joy that comes with gardening. One can see how seeds or little plants that

are set out can grow in their bounty over time. Anyone who works with flowers or crops gets a

sense of satisfaction for seeing this kind of growth. Paul is encouraging his readers to think of this offering in terms of being a gardener. He wants them to give as they have “made up (their) mind”

but he does not want them to give “reluctantly or under compulsion” (v. 7, all Scripture references

are from TNIV unless otherwise noted). The word “reluctantly” could literally be translated “out of pain”. Paul did not want them to give with a pained looked on their faces and agony in their hearts.

Instead he reminded them that “God loves a cheerful giver” (v. 7). The word cheerful in Greek is

hilaron. Can you tell what English word we get from that? Paul is saying that if we approach giving like a gardener our generosity can even be hilarious! Yes, there can be great laughter as we give of

our gifts when we think of that as planting seeds to be harvested in the Kingdom of God. This

perspective on giving is much different from that of a taxpayer or a consumer. The gardener is willing to sacrifice something of himself or herself in a faithful contribution to God realizing that

God will allow the gift to grow and be used for his glory. We are not just paying a tax or buying a

service we are planting seeds for kingdom growth in the hopes that the life and spirit of Christ will be reproduced in our own lives and throughout our church and community. The joy that is caused

from this kind of giving will actually lead to laughter!

Several years ago a tremendous earthquake hit the state of Alaska. Following that tragedy

the Governor’s Office received many letters demanding government support for individuals who had suffered greatly. One letter, however, was very different. It came from a ten year old boy

living in the Midwest. He had heard about the terrible event and the people in need so he wrote a

letter of encouragement and enclosed two nickels. He went on to say, “If you need more, please let me know.”

What a wonderful spirit of generosity! Of course the state of Alaska needed much more

than two nickels but this little boy had an understanding that he was planting some seeds of compassion and help. He was not just paying a tax or buying a service, instead he was a gardener

throwing his seeds into the fertile soil of human need. When we can catch that spirit in our giving

we not only will bring a smile to the face of those in need, we will bring laughter into our own

minds and hearts.

II. Laughter and giving go together when we understand God’s provision for giving. Our giving

to God does not depend on our own resources alone. Paul reminded the Corinthians, “And God is

able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (v. 8). This is an amazing provision! The one to whom we give is the

one who provides for our giving. Paul goes on to explain this when he writes, “Now he who

supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness” (v. 10). There is a wonderful factor at work here.

The more we are willing to turn loose of material possessions, the greater God is able to provide for

our very needs. This does not mean that if we give generously God will make us wealthy. There is

no promise that you will be blessed with a new car in your driveway just because you increase your giving to the church. Hear me clearly on that. However, God does promise that you cannot out-give

him with your stewardship. He will provide for you in abundance without fail.

There is a trick to this however. You can only experience this provision of God when you are willing to increase your stewardship. That is why stewardship is so important. It is a way of

strengthening our faith in God. Only as you are willing to give up something will you realize just

how much you can depend upon the resources of God and as this happens your faith grows stronger and your laughter increases. God doesn’t need our money but he does desire our

faithfulness. One way that he can see our faith in action is when we are willing to turn loose of our

own control of material things and trust in him for the provisions of life. Does this mean that we sit around and do nothing and wait for God to take care of us? Of course not! God honors hard work

and he wants us to take our part in gaining the necessary supplies of life. But it does mean that

God offers to us wonderful opportunity to trust him as we give of our gifts to him.

God has given us a plan. In Malachi 3:8-10 the plan is described as tithing. Simply put, a tithe is 10% of our income. More importantly, it is a tangible way to trust in God. Maybe that is why we

put those words on our money – “In God We Trust.” Not only is this plan for us to give 10% to God,

but tithing is when we give the first tenth of what we make to God. We give not just if the amount happens to be left over when all of the bills are paid. We start by making a priority statement with

our finances. Do you truly trust in God? If you have never tried tithing, then I would say your words

have a hollow ring to them. Tithing is God’s plan for us to have a tangible, real way to express our trust in him.

If tithing is God’s plan, what is the purpose for such a plan? Simply, God wants us to depend

on him. Jesus taught us about this purpose. As soon as Jesus challenged his disciples to bear fruit,

he immediately told them about God’s provision which accompanies that challenge. His promise was, “I am the vine, you are the branches, those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit,

because apart from me you can do nothing…if you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for

whatever you wish and it will be done for you” (John 15:5-7, NRSV). God expects great things from us but he never expects us to do this on our own. He wants us to connect our lives to his

bounteous provision so that the fruit we bear is not produced on our own but is a product of our

faith in Christ. So it is with living, so it is with giving.

As you prepare to fill out your Commitment Card and bring it to church next week, I want to

offer you a challenge. Give ten percent of your income back to God through his church. At first

that may seem challenging and scary. However, remember that God offers his provision to those who are willing to step out with this ninety percent of your income with the help of God than it is

to live on one hundred percent of your income without the provisions of God. Why not try tithing

for the next year? Put that down on the Commitment Card as a commitment of your heart. Begin to earnestly trust God to provide you with the resources that you need for living. You may begin to

see how a greater reliance upon God’s provisions draws you in closer contact with your Lord. Then

you will never want to give up what you have begun. Laughter and giving do go together when we understand God’s provision for giving.

III.

Laughter and giving go together when we receive God’s blessing. Giving is not just a way to

strengthen your faith; it is a way to increase your pleasure. I realize that this goes against much of what we hear in our world. The prevailing message is for us to keep as much as we can and spend

it on ourselves. However, God’s Word to us comes through the Apostle Paul who said, “And God is

able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (v. 8). Do you see what he is saying? God not only takes care of our

basic needs when we trust him in stewardship but he enriches us in such a way that we overflow

with thanksgiving to God. Not only does he supply the needs that we have but he allows us to experience blessings which produce thanksgiving in great abundance. “You will be made rich in

every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will

result in thanksgiving to God.” (v. 11)

A minister was encouraging his congregation to be faithful stewards. He said, “The Lord has

done so much for each of us. Each of us should be willing to give a tenth of our income.” One

enthusiastic member was caught up in spirit of generosity that he stood and exclaimed, “A tenth

just isn’t enough! We ought to give a twentieth!”

That man may not be very good at math but he had the right spirit in his heart because he

had come to know the blessing of God which accompany our giving. He knew about “every

blessing in abundance.” Do you? Those blessings lead to the laughter of feeling God’s pleasure.

IV.

Do laughter and giving go together? I have done my best to begin an answer to that

question. Actually, only you can answer it for yourself. This week you will have a chance to place your answer on a Commitment Card that will be a tangible expression of your trust in God.

Remember, God is more interested in developing Christians than he is in simply raising budgets.

Christian stewardship helps us to connect our life to Christ just as a branch connects itself to the true vine. Stewardship allows us to bear fruit for Christ as we take the approach of a gardener to

plant kingdom seeds with our material possessions.

As you consider what you will give to God through the coming year I do not ask you to “give until

it hurts.” Paul said that he did not want gifts to come “reluctantly” or “out of pain.” Instead let me encourage you to give until you laugh! “Whoever sows generously” . . . will laugh greatly! After all,

God does love a hilarious giver.

First Baptist Church ● 600 Governors Drive ● Huntsville, Alabama 35801 ● 256-428-9400 ● www.fbchsv.org

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

As we approach the holy season of Advent and Christmas, remember that we come together as a church during the month of December for one worship service each Sunday morning at 10:30 in the Sanctuary. Just as families travel and get together for visits over the holidays, we will change our

usual patterns in order to worship together for the month. This Sunday, November 29, will be the last First Fellowship worship until we begin again on January 3. Our Bicentennial Celebration concludes during the seasons of Advent and Christmas. The anniversary theme of “Footprints” will lead us to celebrate the birth of Christ during these holy days. Surrounding the coming of the Messiah were characters that leave their imprint on the story of Christmas and on our lives. As we make our way to Bethlehem and beyond, we will trace the path of these footprints that were left along the way. Listen again to the wondrous story of Christmas and consider how these footprints of old can continue in our lives this year. Message Series: “The Footprints of Christmas” November 29 “Touched by an Angel” Luke 1:26-38 December 6 “The Gift of Blessing” Luke 1:39-45, 56 Hanging of the Green December 13 “In Defense of an Innkeeper” Luke 2:1-7 December 20 “The Road to Bethlehem” Luke 2:8-20 December 27 “The Eyes of Hope” Luke 2:22-40

Sunday, November 29 First Sunday of Advent

New Message Series: “The Footprints of Christmas”

Sermon: “Touched by an Angel” - Luke 1:26-38

First Fellowship 8:15 a.m. - Fellowship Hall

Music from A20


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary Choir anthem—

And the Glory of the Lord (from Messiah) - Handel


Missions Mosaic Our season for emphasizing missions around the

world will come to life with video stories of missionaries and their work across the globe.

December 18, 2008 November 25 2009

WEEK OF PRAYER ‘Tis the Season

for Praying and Giving Please join us.

Tuesday, December 1 10:00 a.m. - Room 118

Focus on Hungary, Ukraine, and the Dominican Republic Thursday, December 3

11:15 a.m. - Fellowship Hall Speakers: Michael & Hope Stephens,

Missionaries to North Africa/Middle East Lunch provided by members of Women on Mission.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, November 29 First Fellowship/FH 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Sanctuary Worship 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 5:00 PM Missions Mosaic/FH 5:00 PM Men’s Bible Study/115 5:00 PM Youth Choir Snacks/241 6:00 PM Student Fun Night/Off Campus 6:00 PM

Monday, November 30 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Tuesday, December 1 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Lehman Bible Study/342 9:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Week of Prayer/118 10:00 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, December 2 LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Christmas Moment/Parlor 10:00 AM-9:00 PM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM “Hanging of the Green” Reh.Sanct 5:00 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Y.A. Small Grp/107 5:30 PM Building Comm/114 5:30 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Orchestra/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift-Off/309-310 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM LCT Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Library 7:00 PM Thursday, December 3 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL Classes/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM WEE Ministry Christmas Party/118 6:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM Friday, December 4 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Parents’ Night Out/WEE Area 6:00 PM Saturday, December 5 Fellowship Club Day Trip 7:00 AM Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern DATES TO NOTE ~ December 6 Hanging of the Green (morning) LCT Construction (Afternoon) Story and Song (Chapel): 4:30 p.m. ~ A service for families with children, celebrating Christmas through the Nativity narrative with familiar carols. 6:00 p.m. ~ A contemplative service, celebrating the Christmas story with

readings and music to direct our attention to the coming of the Messiah, and further, to the Second Coming at the End of the Age.

December 7-8 Decoration of the Living Christmas Tree December 13 Advent Worship Service in the evening (led by our youth) December 17-20 Living Christmas Tree A wonderful opportunity for outreach…

December 17, 2009 7:30 PM

December 18, 2009 7:30 PM

December 19, 2009 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM

December 20, 2009 3:00 PM* and 5:00 PM

*Abbreviated presentation for younger children.

Visit our website at www.fbchsv.org to reserve your FREE tickets today.

…invite someone this week!

* * * * * * COME HELP DECORATE THE LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE !!

Monday, December 7, 9 til 1 and 6 to 8 Tuesday, December 8, 9 til 2 and 6 til 8

Wednesday, December 9, 9 til 2

Lunch and childcare provided for the “9 til 2” work sessions. Sign up in Sunday School or call or email Kristen Jobes at 698-6754,

[email protected]


Introducing the Interactive Student Prayer Room

In the Student Ministry area of our church facility, we have just completed creating a prayer room for students and others to use. The room has four stations for prayer. One is the Cross Wall. One large cross centers the wall with others made by students hanging around it. Across from the crosses is a Petition Wall where students can put prayer requests and praises on a bulletin board. Materials are also provided for PrayerGrams to be written to other people. A third wall is Scripture Wall with Psalm 46:10 for meditation. A Bible and chair are provided for reading and meditating on scripture. The fourth wall is the World Map Wall for prayer towards missions and God’s message of love in Jesus Christ to be spread to all people. You are always welcome to tour the Prayer Room and the Student Ministry space. As you do, or if you cannot, please pray for the spiritual growth of our students.

Cr

FYI Menu

Wednesday, December 2

Adults Hamburger Steak

Mashed Potatoes/Gravy Green Beans - Roll

Salad






This Week $58,045.99 YTD $604,040.69


ATTENDANCE— November 22, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services


(Cont’d from column 1) WORSHIP TOGETHER During the month of December, we will not have two worship services but will worship together in the Sanctuary at 10:30. Because of the special services that will be helping us to celebrate Advent, there will be visitors who will also come. Please move over, make room, be welcoming and be thankful that we are many during this month! Remember that young children will be participating and they will be watching and waiting for you to help them feel welcome! At this time when we are expectantly waiting for THE baby, may we expectantly welcome all who enter here.

Preschool Ministries Joy Moore, Minister to Preschool PREPARING OUR CHILDREN FOR ADVENT (based on Online Ministries article by this name)

The first and most important thing we can do to prepare our children for Advent is to prepare ourselves. After all, if we are impatient and crabby - pressured by all the busyness of this season - we won't be very good at teaching our children anything about quiet, expectant waiting. If they never hear us talk about what we long for from the Lord, how will they learn about this kind of longing? And, if they hear "the coming of Jesus" talked about at church, and perhaps at school, but never hear us talk about the meaning of the coming of Jesus for us, what kind of message will we be giving them?

Of course, our children will be watching us and listening to us - what we say and do, and what we fail to say and do. So, the first thing we can give our children is our own commitment to enter Advent as deeply as we can. We want to clear our own spirits so that we can be present to theirs. The graces we receive can be the graces we share with them.

To talk with our children about our own religious experience doesn't mean we have to know all kinds of "theology" to "teach them," nor does it mean we have to "dumb it down" to ridiculously simple terms. We don't have to "burden" children with the burdens we bear. We just have to find the right time and place to talk with them about our faith.

We don't have to criticize everything in our contemporary culture's preparation for and celebration of Christmas. But, what we tell them about Advent will help temper the materialism and consumerism involved in the marketing of Christmas to children.

We can tell this story to our children in so many ways. We can let them tell us what it means to them. Through all this conversation, the message will come through. During these weeks of Advent, we want to look forward to celebrating His coming so that we can live our lives as an example to others because He came to set us free - free from our sins and free from death itself. Celebrate Advent and the story of the Christ Child with your children and you may find that you will celebrate with a more joyful heart this Christmas!

(Continued on next column)

Upcoming Student Ministry Dates

December 13 Student Night at Christmas—5:00 PM Lead congregational worship in the Chapel Student Christmas Party—6:00 PM At the home of Blake & Kyle Reasons

January 17-18 Student & Parent Adventure Retreat

February 7 Souper Bowl of Caring—AM Super Bowl Party—5:00 PM in the CLC

March 13-17 Spring Camp

April 16-18 Mission Madness Weekend

May 22-23 Graduate Weekend

June 26—July 5 Summer Mission Trip to Waterbury, CT and Philadelphia, PA

Cross Wall

Petition Wall

World Map Wall

Scripture Wall


Early Adult Ministries Pam McDaniel, Minister to Young and Median Adults

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU From FORUM, a Young Adult Bible Study Group at FBC

Forum meets on Thursday nights for Bible study, prayer, conversation, and fun! Are you a young adult who would like to have information sent directly to you about Forum’s activities each week? Contact [email protected]. We want you to KNOW what is happening and KNOW that you are invited to join in!

First Baptist Church 2009 History Book

FOR KIN, OLD FRIENDS…... ... what could be better for Christmas than a copy of the handsome new history of First Baptist, at 200 years the oldest such church in Alabama. Offspring of members, resident and non-resident, and old friends of Huntsville and our storied, trail-blazing past, would cherish the gift. And the $20 price is right, too, 20 per cent less than actual cost. Books will be on sale in the East Entrance beginning on Sunday, November 29, at 10:30 a.m. or contact Jim Harrison at e-mail: [email protected] or Phone: 882-8655.

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Pete & Debbie Coulter 95 Amherst Dr Lacey’s Spring AL 35754-4141 Penny Marie Wymer 8341 White Flagg Ln SE Apt 2008 Huntsville AL 35802-4606 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Sharon & Gary Porier in the loss of her mother, Jean Graves Ralph & Lynda Romero in the loss of his brother, Manuel Romero Joan & Bob Warren in the loss of her brother, Charles Costner

Thanks

A thank you note has been received from Mary V. Davis (in appreciation for our TV ministry). This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

LIBRARY INFORMATION

Beginning December 1 our Church Library will have new Wednesday hours. They are:

Wednesdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

and 4:00 p.m. - 5:00.p.m. The opening times for Sundays

will remain the same.

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Our family was together over Thanksgiving. Emily and Andrew came home and we enjoyed hours of eating, talking, laughing, and enjoying one another. We traveled together to see my parents and to share the joy of Thanksgiving with them. The family gathering was wonderful.

My kids have their own lives, jobs, and homes in Louisville and Birmingham. I am glad that they are settled, happy, and making valuable contributions in other places. During most of the year we do not see each other. However, it is great when the scattered family can get together. This December, First Baptist Church is going to have a Family Gathering. We will move out of our normal Sunday routines to provide opportunities for the entire church family to come together for worship and fellowship. Each Sunday morning in December there will be one worship service at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Think of this as a Family Gathering at Christmas. For those who regularly attend the First Fellowship Worship this will be outside of the normal routine. Hopefully, the experiences of our Church Family coming together during this Holy Season will be as rich and rewarding as those trips that we make to see members of our own family during the month. When January arrives, we will resume the normal schedule of two morning worship services. One thing that our family did over Thanksgiving was to put up the Christmas decorations around our house. Of course, the whole family does not need to be together in order for decorations to be displayed. But it surely is more fun that way! We decided that while we were together the house would be decorated. This Sunday morning we come together as a church family and decorate the Sanctuary. We call this Hanging of the Green. The music of children, youth, and adults will add meaning to the beautiful symbols of the season that will adorn the room. As we consider “The Footprints of Christmas,” my message will focus on the relationship of Elizabeth and Mary (Luke 1:39-45, 56) and is called “The Gift of Blessing.” I hope that you will join us this Sunday morning as our family gathers for the Hanging of the Green. As I said four paragraphs ago, “It is great when the scattered family can get together.”

Sunday, December 6 Second Sunday of Advent

Hanging of the Green

Sermon: “The Gift of Blessing” Luke 1:39-45, 56


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m. Note: During the month of December

there will be only one morning service.

12:30 p.m. - Sanctuary Construction of the Living Christmas Tree begins.

4:30 p.m. - Chapel

Story and Song

A service for families with children, celebrating Christmas through the Nativity narrative

with familiar carols.

6:00 p.m. - Chapel

Story and Song

A contemplative service, celebrating the Christmas story with readings and music to direct our attention

to the coming of the Messiah, and further, to the Second Coming at the End of the Age.

December 18, 2008 December 2009

Ministry Calendar Sunday, December 6 Library Open 9:00—9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM “Hanging of the Green”/Sanct 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM LCT Workers/140 12:00 PM LCT Construction/Sanct 12:30 PM Stephen Ministry/118 3:00 PM Youth Band/ Reh/309,310 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR,Sanct,343,140 4:00 PM Children’s “Story & Song”/Chapel 4:30 PM LCT Workers/242 5:30 PM Contemplative “Story & Song”Chapel 6:00 PM Monday, December 7 Women’s BSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM LCT Construction/Sanct 8:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Hallelujah Choir Fellowship/118 9:00 AM Staff Brunch/Parlor 10:00 AM Hallelujah Choir/CR 10:30 AM LCT Workers/FH 11:45 AM BSF/Chapel,Parlor,3rd Floor,Chapel 5:00 PM Deacons/118 6:00 PM Tuesday, December 8 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM LCT Construction 8:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Ministers’ Mtg./Parlor 9:00 AM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Mtg./Parlor 10:30 AM Faith Dev. Staff/Parlor 11:00 AM LCT Workers/FH 11:45 AM Music Staff/Parlor 1:00 PM A20 Rehearsal/FH 5:00 PM HAP Board Mtg/241 6:30 PM Boy Scouts, Trp. 70/312 7:00 PM

Wednesday, December 9 LCT Construction 8:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM WEE/Chapel 9:30 AM Library Open 10:00 AM—1:00 PM Cradle Roll/Off Campus 11:30 AM Library Open 3:00—5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM M&M/2nd & 3rd Floors 5:20 PM Men’s Study Group/118 5:30 PM YA Small Group/107 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM LCT Orchestra/Parlor/Sanct,141 6:00 PM Lift-Off/309-310 6:00 PM LCT Pre-Dress Reh/Chapel 6:30 PM LCT Reh/CR 7:00 PM Thursday, December 10 Men’s Fraternity 6:00 AM Moms in Touch/Parlor 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor & FH 9:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Daybreak/FH 5:00 PM Forum/107 6:30 PM Fisher SS Class Fellowship/118 6:30 PM Friday, December 11 Men’s BSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM MOPS Steering Team/Library 9:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Entrance 9:00 AM—5:00 PM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Wedding Reh Dinner/118 3:30 PM Sisco-Payne Reh/Chapel 6:00 PM Saturday, December 12 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Sisco-Payne Wedding/Chapel 3:00 PM

Missions and Outreach Mike Pearce, Minister of Missions and Outreach The Season to Invite Your Friends Part of the Easter to Easter Challenge for this year is to actively invite the person or family you are building a relationship with to some event. One of the best events for inviting friends to our church is the Living Christmas Tree. I hope you will pray and consider who you need to invite this year. I would suggest you make the invitation a possible fellowship time either with your family or as an individual. Plan to meet them before or after the performance for a meal or dessert. If you meet them before the event it will help them find their way much easier into the sanctuary and to find a good seat. Make a plan now to create a nice invitation to give to your friend in the next two weeks. You may want to pick up tickets ahead of time to give to them or to put them into a written invitation. If you make it a special invitation it is more likely that they will accept it and attend. Perry County Mission Report The leadership and volunteers asked me to send back their thanks to First Baptist Church members for the recent food donations. We were able to take down a truck load of food and turkeys. And with the money donated to this cause we were able to buy several more turkeys down in Perry County. I was very impressed with their organization and the large number of volunteers they had on hand to help with the distribution. Thanks for your good support. Don’t forget to plan to go to Perry County in early June to serve a week or just two days. You will receive a blessing out of serving in a very needy area. Watch for a January interest meeting.

LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE PERFORMANCES Thursday, December 17 - 7:30 PM Friday, December 18 - 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 19 - 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM Sunday, December 20 - 3:00 PM* and 5:00 PM *Abbreviated presentation for younger children.

Tickets are available at our East Entrance.

Visit our website at www.fbchsv.org to reserve your tickets today. …invite someone this week!

COME HELP DECORATE THE LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE !!! Monday, December 7, 9 ‘til 1and 6 ‘til 8 Tuesday, December 8, 9 ‘til 2 and 6 ‘til 8 Wednesday, December 9, 9 ‘til 2

Lunch and childcare provided for the “9 til 2” work sessions. Sign up in Sunday School or call or email Kristen Jobes at 698-6754 or [email protected]


CLC Holiday Hours

In observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, the Christian Life Center will follow these hours in December & January:

December 23 – close at 1 pm

December 24—December 27 – closed December 31 – close at 1 pm

January 1—3 – closed

We will resume our normal weekly hours beginning January 4.

FYI Menu

Wednesday, December 9

Adults Chicken Divan - Corn Casserole

Green Beans - Dessert



Kid’s Meal


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 9 - November 29, 2009


This Week $42,589.06 YTD $646,629.75


ATTENDANCE—NOVEMBER 29, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services


FELLOWSHIP CLUB Friday, December 11


Program: Christmas customs from

around the world

Box lunch from McAllister’s

Reservations are needed by December 4.

Call Bert or Kay Gover at 536-8317

Children’s Ministries Cindy Russell, Minister to Children Advent Family Worship Guide Worship guides, calendars and stickers are available on the table outside the Childhood Ministries Office. Pick up your copies this week so that your family may fully participate in Advent devotions designed “just for them.” Remember….we worship as The Family of First Baptist in one service during the month of December. See you in the Sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. Hanging of the Green Sunday morning, December 6 Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m. Be sure to participate in this service as a family. We will prepare the Sanctuary for the Advent and Christmas season. Your children will have an opportunity to use the skills they practice every Wednesday night, by leading in worship through song. Story and Songs Sunday evening, December 6 Chapel - 4:30 p.m. A service designed with the young child in mind. We will hear the story of Christmas reinforced with object lessons and familiar Christmas carols. Chapel - 6:00 p.m. - A service of quiet contemplation for the Advent of the Christ. Footprints to Christmas Sunday, December 13 Sanctuary, 10:30 a.m. Children will have an opportunity to present and dedicate the “Shoeboxes” prepared in GA’s and RA’s. Again, an opportunity for our children to lead us in worship and the mission of caring for others. Help reinforce what they are learning in Wednesday missions education by participating in this service. The Children’s Tree Sunday, December 20 Sanctuary, 3:00 p.m. A Living Christmas Tree designed especially for young children. The program is much shorter, incorporating the selections that will most likely be enjoyed by children and eliminating the traditional narration. The atmosphere is very casual where keeping the kids quiet is definitely not required. Christmas Eve Communion Thursday, December 24 Sanctuary, 5:00 Come celebrate Christ’s birth as The Family of First Baptist, in this Christmas Eve tradition.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 48, December 3, 2009


How Do We Know If We Have The Flu or just a Cold?

Eugenia Graves

“Yet I said to myself, ‘This is my sickness, and I must endure it.’’ Jeremiah 10:19 NIV During this time of year we often wonder if the upper respiratory infection we have is a cold or the flu. Here is a chart to help determine which it is: Cold Symptom Flu Pretty rare Fever Usually present Slight body aches & pains Aches Severe aches & pains Uncommon Chills Fairly common Fairly mild Fatigue Moderate to severe Develop over a few days Sudden Symptoms Rapid onset/ 3-6 hrs. Hacking & productive Coughing Dry and nonproductive Common Sneezing Uncommon Common Stuffy Nose Uncommon Mild to moderate Sore Throat Uncommon Mild to moderate Chest Discomfort Often severe Fairly uncommon Headache Very common

Unlike colds, flu can lead to complications like pneumonia,

especially in the old, the young, and those with serious health issues. Viruses are transmitted by contact with objects that the infected person has touched after coughing or sneezing. Germs can be transmitted 1 day before symptoms appear and up to 5 days after getting sick.

Stay healthy by eating well, exercising regularly, getting plenty of rest, and practicing good hand washing. If you have a cold or the flu, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or elbow when coughing/sneezing, avoid people while ill, wash your hands after coughing/sneezing, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

If you are ill, stay home; don’t share your germs. Treat your symptoms by hydrating yourself, getting plenty of rest, gargling to moisten a sore throat, drinking hot liquids to relieve nasal congestion, taking a steamy shower to clear nasal passages, applying hot or cold packs to congested sinuses, using an extra pillow when sleeping to relieve congestion, and avoiding travel by air. If you are healthy, share Jesus’ love by taking the sick one the standard chicken soup or fluids and caring for the children.

(Source: Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.com)

Family Matters

CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Family and friends of our member, Doris Bentley, especially to her daughter, Charlotte & Roger Schlittler, her grandson, Will & Christi League, her great-grandchildren, Bentley, Wills, and Betty Jean League, and her niece, Gail Clever Roger & Debbie Howard in the loss of his father and Heather and Hayley Howard in the loss of their grandfather, James Howard Buddy Sizemore in the loss of his sister, David & Barbara Sizemore in the loss of his aunt, and Sarah and Peter Sizemore in the loss of their great-aunt, Joyce Clark Bill & Glenda Weatherly in the loss of his mother, Elizabeth Weatherly

SNACKS FOR OUR LCT WORKERS

The Living Christmas Tree is truly a church-wide project. You can help by providing

snacks for the workers during the construction and decorating of the tree. Construction starts on Sunday, December 6, and will continue with decorating until Tuesday, December 8. You may bring your snacks to the Music Ministry Office on these days.

Stewardship Commitment Update Following our day of commitment on November 22, we have received a total pledge of $2,196,288. This represents 53% of our total budget of $4,150,000. Please be reminded that your financial commitment matters – to your spiritual growth and in support of the ministries of First Baptist Church. There is still time to make a commitment; there are cards available throughout the church. Call the Finance Office at 428-9417 should you have any questions.

Thanks A thank you note has been received from Tom Jobes. This has been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

October 30, 2008


Our worship theme during Advent this year is “The Footprints of Christmas.” We are learning about people who made their footprints on the path that led to Bethlehem. We are also talking about how these footprints of faith can continue in our lives. But what if the footprints of Christmas never found their way to your door? What if you knew nothing of Bethlehem, a manger, shepherds, angels and Jesus? Advent is not

just a time for us to tell the story again and again to ourselves. It is a time to give so that others around the world can hear the story for the first time. December is our month for the World Missions Offering. You have the opportunity to select either the Lottie Moon Christmas offering of the Southern Baptist Convention or the Global Missions Offering of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. The offering is used to support missionaries who leave their footprints in places throughout the world that we can never go. Whichever channel of mission giving you choose, please know that your participation in this World Missions Offering puts hands, feet, and voices to the words and songs of hope, peace, joy, and love that we offer in our worship during Advent. Your giving allows the “footprints of Christmas” to encompass the entire globe. Your packet of stewardship envelopes contains an envelope for each offering. Additional envelopes are available around the church. Choose the one that you want to support and be generous as you give. Jesus brought the grace of God to us as he came to the earth to live and die for us. Certainly we can bring our mission gifts in generous gratitude so that the wonderful good news can be shared with the entire world. This Sunday morning we will have a special offering time during our worship service when we can put feet to our giving as we bring forward our mission gifts and our shoe boxes to be placed in the manger as a gift to God. December is also a very important time for us to bring our tithes and offerings to be used by God for the ministries of First Baptist Church and for missions around the world. I realize that the global economic turmoil may impact the giving of some this December. Others may be able to give more generously this year in light of the financial blessings you have received in recent months. With faithful year-end giving we can meet this challenge and be in a position to move ahead with mission and ministry in 2010. I encourage all of us to bring our mission gifts for these wonderful special offerings. I challenge all of us to complete our stewardship commitments for 2009 through generous support for the ministries of the church. Thank you in advance for giving so that the footprints of ministry and mission can continue long after the Christmas decorations have been put away.

Sunday, December 13 Third Sunday of Advent

Sermon: “In Defense of an Innkeeper”

Luke 2:1-7


Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Music from the Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, and Adult Handbell Choir

Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. - Chapel

“STUDENT NIGHT AT CHRISTMAS”

Student-led worship service

December 18, 2008 December 10, 2009

THE LIST

A sacred journey from Christmas to Easter

Read details

in this Messenger insert.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, Dec. 13 Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Worship/Sanct. 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM Explore the Bible/Parlor 1:00 PM Youth Band/309-310 3:00 PM Girl Scout Ceremony/Chapel 3:00 PM Youth Choir/CR, Sanct., 343, 140 4:00 PM MOPS set-up/118 4:00 PM Student Night @ Christmas/Chapel 5:00 PM Student Christmas Party/Reasons’ Home 6:00 PM Orchestra/Parlor 6:00 PM LCT Gathering/FH 6:00 PM LCT Dress Reh./CR, Sanct. Chapel 6:30 PM

Monday, Dec. 14 WBSF Leaders/FH 4:45 AM LCT Tickets/East Welcome 9 AM-5 PM MOPS/118 9:00 AM WEE Reh./Chapel 10:00 AM BSF Classes/3rd FL, Parlor, Chapel 5:00 PM LCT Tech Crew/Sanct. 5:00 PM CODA/140 6:30 PM Venture Scouts/313 6:30 PM

Tuesday, Dec. 15 Spiritual Formations Grp./Par. 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Piano Tuning/Sanct. 8:30 AM-12 PM LCT Tickets/East Welcome 9 AM-5 PM WEE Ministry/Chapel 9:30 AM Staff Christmas/Off Campus 12:00 PM Toastmasters/342 12:00 PM HYO/140, 141 5:00 PM A2O/FH 5:00 PM LCT Tech Crew/Sanct. 5:00 PM Boy Scout Trp. 70/312, 343 7:00 PM Rocket City Chorus/114 7:00 PM

Wednesday, Dec. 16 LCT Construction/Sanct. 8 AM-12 PM LCT Tickets/East Welcome 9 AM-5 PM WEE Reh./Chapel 9:30 AM Head Inj.-Sm. Places/327 10:00 AM Library Open 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Library Open 4:00-5:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Men’s Study Grp. 118 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp./107 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Liftoff/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra/Sanct., Parlor, 141 6:00 PM LCT Warm-Ups./Chapel 6:30 PM LCT Dress Reh./Sanct. 7:00 PM

Thursday, Dec. 17 Men’s Fraternity/FH 6:00 AM Moms in Touch 8:00 AM LCT Tickets/East Welcome 9 AM-5 PM LCT Orch./Parlor 5:30 PM LCT Parkers/241 6:00 PM LCT Choir Assembly/FH 6:30 PM LCT/Sanct. 7:30 PM

Friday, Dec. 18 WEE LCT/Chapel 11:00 AM LCT Orch./Parlor 5:30 PM Ivey-Walker Reh./Chapel 5:30 PM LCT Parkers/241 6:00 PM LCT Choir Assembly/FH 6:30 PM LCT/Sanct. 7:30 PM

Saturday, Dec. 19 Ivey-Walker Wedding/Chapel 11:00 AM LCT Parkers/241 3:00 PM LCT Parkers/241 3:00 PM LCT Choir Assembly/FH 3:30 PM LCT/Sanct. 4:30 PM/ and 7:30 PM


LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE PERFORMANCES Thursday, December 17 - 7:30 PM Friday, December 18 - 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 19 - 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM Sunday, December 20 - 3:00 PM* and 5:00 PM *Abbreviated presentation for younger children.

Tickets are available at

our East Entrance. Visit our website at

www.fbchsv.org to reserve your tickets

today. …invite someone this week!


FYI

Menu Wednesday, December 16

Adults

Chili/Baked Potato Raw Vegetables w/Dip

Crackers Dessert



STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Week # 10 - December 6, 2009 Year-to-Date Goal: $795,140.00 Offering:

This Week $126,701.82 YTD $773,331.57


ATTENDANCE December 6, 2009

Sunday School


Worship Services Sanctuary Worship 1158

Year-End Contributions:

The offices of FBC will close on December 31 at 5 pm. Therefore, contributions to be posted for 2009 should be received in the Finance Office by December 31. Of course, any donations post-marked by December 31 will also be counted. If you have any questions, please contact Alison at 428-9417 or [email protected].

**Remember that stock gifts, IRAs, and other appreciated securities are a great way to donate! Call Alison if you have questions.

Sunday, December 13 6:00 PM at the home of Blake & Kyle Reasons

ALL Students (Grades 7-12) are invited to come for food, lots of crazy fun, and Christmas bag packing for children at University Place Elementary School.

Students need to bring $10 to help pay for the Christmas Bag Project.

Sunday, December 20 9:15—10:15 AM in the CLC

Come for a good time of catching up with friends, a short reflection, and some great food!



FBC SPECIAL ADULT MINISTRY The Special Adult class members at FBC participate in worship each Sunday by watching the broadcast of the service together in the patio room of the Christian Life Center. Volunteers from our church family come and watch the broadcast with us to provide friendship and support to our members. Are you available to come one time every three months to worship with us? If you are interested in sharing in this ministry, please contact Sherron Culpepper at 533-3359 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Family Matters WELCOME NEW MEMBER

Fletcher Canup 102 Preserve CT Madison, AL .35758-3661 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY

Beverly & Bobby Miller the loss of her father and Todd Miller in the loss of his grandfather, Vernon Beard, who died today in Indianola, Mississippi.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Betty Lankford, Angela Seanor, Vivian Yarbough, Betty Lunsford, and Bob & Joan Costner Warren, These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

First Baptist Church 2009 History Book

FOR KIN, OLD FRIENDS... ... what could be better for Christmas than a copy of the handsome new history of First Baptist, at 200 years the oldest such church in Alabama. Offspring of members, resident and non-resident, and old friends of Huntsville and our storied, trail-blazing past, would cherish the gift. And the $20 price is right, too, 20 per cent less than actual cost.

Books will be on sale in the East Entrance each Sunday in December before and after the 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary service or contact Eva Geiger at e-mail: [email protected] or Phone: 883-1504

2009 Advent Devotional Book “The Living Christmas Tree… Silver Anniversary”

Daily advent devotionals, written by our church members, Available Online at

WWW.FBCHSV.ORG, and a few more paper copies in our welcome

centers. You are encouraged to pick up a copy and let these moments of devotion draw

you closer to The Child of Christmas.

THE LIST

A Sacred Journey from Christmas to Easter

First Baptist Church Huntsville, Alabama

I have always enjoyed the music of Johnny Cash. In fact, the very first concert of popular music that I ever attended was when my parents took me to a Johnny Cash concert at the Kentucky State Fair for my twelfth birthday. About that same time my Dad and I would watch the Johnny Cash show on television together.

A recent newspaper article caught my eye. It seems that this icon of country music had made a list of 100 Essential Country Songs and passed it down to his daughter Roseanne many years ago. She has now recorded twelve of them in a recording called “The List.” From the experience of the father comes a list that has now been interpreted by the child and has been shared with the larger community. I saw possibilities for the church in what I was reading, so I asked my Dad to make a list.

For the last sixty years my Dad has been preaching and teaching the Scriptures in churches, seminaries, and colleges. His work as a biblical scholar, pastoral preacher, and administrative leader gives him a unique perspective to offer a list of 100 Essential Scripture Passages. You will find his suggestions in this brochure. I believe that your spiritual journey will be enriched by giving thoughtful and prayerful study to these passages from the Bible.

Here is a suggestion for a special season in the life of First Baptist Church. As we begin a new century in our history with the dawning of 2010, I call each one of us to a time of renewal and commitment. I encourage you to do the following:

1. Begin on the day after Christmas and read one passage per day. Let these words of Scripture lead you into a time of prayer. Discuss what you are reading each day with family and friends. The 100 passages will take you from the day after Christmas until Easter. If we all set out on such a journey, this would make an enriching time of spiritual renewal as we move into the next chapter in the history of our church.

2. Select twelve passages that you would like for us to use as the focus of worship during the season of January until Easter. You can make these selections by circling your choices on paper forms that can be placed in boxes around the church. What passages would you like to hear as the basis for messages in our worship services? Let me know what you are thinking. We will receive your suggestions through January 3.

3. Join us for a worship message series called THE LIST that will begin on January 10. I will preach on the twelve passages that have been most requested by the church. Our worship together as a community will hopefully strengthen our private devotions and daily reading over these months.

I am most grateful for THE LIST provided by my Dad. I invite you to make a sacred journey through these verses in the hope that we will all be blessed by the music of God’s grace.

David W. Hull

100 Essenti

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100 Essenti

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Scripture

Scripture

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Passages

Passages

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100 ESSENTIAL SCRIPTURE PASSAGES

William E. Hull

In the summer of 1973, the legendary folk singer Johnny Cash handed his eighteen year old daughter Rosanne a sheet of yellow lined paper on which he had listed “100 Essential

Country Songs.” Discussing with his daughter the launching her own musical career, he

had become alarmed at the songs she didn’t know, and so he set about to identify the

best of what he had spent his life singing to leave as a legacy lest this heritage be forgotten.

At first Rosanne laid the list aside as she forged her own vocational pathway. It lay forgotten in a box of memorabilia until she happened upon it in 2005. Soon her fans

began to ask when she was going to record the songs selected by her father, a

suggestion she at first rejected in order to concentrate on her work as a songwriter. Finally her husband convinced her to begin the project and now we have the hit CD

appropriately entitled “The List” containing twelve of the songs that her father had

chosen.

Borrowing from the concern of Johnny Cash that at least “100 Essential Country Songs”

not be forgotten, is it not infinitely more important that at least “100 Essential Scripture Passages” not be forgotten? Just as Cash looked back over a lifetime of singing to

make his musical selections, so I have looked back over a lifetime of teaching and

preaching the Bible to make my scriptural selections, the results of which you see below.

Admittedly my choices are personal, but if you think of passages more meaningful to

your spiritual life than the ones I picked, make substitutions and eventually the list will

become yours rather than mine. But how can only 100 passages containing 2,184 verses do justice to the totality of Scripture with 31,101 verses? Here the idea behind the word

“Essential” is to provide a core comprising only seven percent of the Bible’s total content

in the hope that mastery of these pivotal passages will inspire you to study all the rest!

Even a summary effort such as this can be facilitated by a systematic plan, so let me

suggest one for your consideration. These 100 passages average twenty-two verses each which can be read carefully, thoughtfully, and prayerfully in ten minutes or less.

Surely you can budget that much time each day for one of these passages even when

the hectic pace of life competes for attention at every moment. I have arranged the passages in their biblical sequence so that reading them consecutively will give some

sense of the sweep of Scripture. An ideal time to begin this journey is on the day after

Christmas 2009. Read one passage a day for 100 days without interruption and you will

finish on Easter Sunday, 2010. This is the finest legacy I can offer. And it is yours for the taking.

1. Genesis 1:1 – 2:3

2. Genesis 3:1-24

3. Genesis 18:1-15

4. Genesis 28:10-22; 32:22-31

5. Genesis 42:1-5; 43:1-9; 44:18 – 45:5

6. Exodus 2:23 – 3:15

7. Exodus 20:1-17

8. Joshua 1:1-18

9. Judges 7:1-23

10. 1 Samuel 3:1 – 4:1a

11. 1 Samuel 17:1-11, 32-54

12. 1 Kings 8:22-30, 54-61

13. 1 Kings 19:1-18

14. Ezra 9:5-15

15. Nehemiah 8:1-12

16. Job 38:1-18; 40:1-9; 42:1-6

17. Psalm 8:1-9

18. Psalm 23:1-6

19. Psalm 32:1-11

20. Psalm 51:1-17

21. Psalm 73:1-28

22. Psalm 90:1-17

23. Psalm 139:1-24

24. Proverbs 2:1-22

25. Proverbs 3:1-35

26. Proverbs 8:1-36

27. Isaiah 6:1-8

28. Isaiah 35:1-10

29. Isaiah 40:1-31

30. Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

31. Jeremiah 7:1-15

32. Ezekiel 37:1-14

33. Daniel 6:1-28

34. Hosea 1:2-9; 3:1-5

35. Hosea 11:1-11

36. Amos 5:4-24

37. Jonah 1:1-10; 3:1-10

38. Micah 6:1-16

39. Habakkuk 2:1-14

40. Malachi 3:1-12, 16 – 4:6

41. Matthew 3:13 – 4:22

42. Matthew 5:1-16

43. Matthew 6:1-18

44. Matthew 25:31-46

45. Matthew 28:1-20

46. Mark 2:1 – 3:6

47. Mark 4:1-34

48. Mark 8:27 – 9:8

49. Mark 11:1-24

50. Mark 14:22-42

The List

51. Luke 4:14-44

52. Luke 10:25-37

53. Luke 15:1-32

54. Luke 23:33-49

55. Luke 24:13-35

56. John 1:1-18

57. John 3:1-21

58. John 6:35-65

59. John 11:1-44

60. John 13:33 – 14:27

61. John 17:1-26

62. John 20:1-31

63. Acts 2:1-47

64. Acts 9:1-30

65. Acts 15:1-35

66. Acts 20:17-35

67. Romans 6:1-23

68. Romans 8:1-39

69. Romans 12:1-21

70. 1 Corinthians 12:4-27




74. 2 Cor. 5:11 – 6:10

75. Galatians 5:13 – 6:10

76. Ephesians 2:1-22



79. Philippians 2:1-18

80. Philippians 3:4 – 4:1

81. Colossians 1:3-23

82. 1 Thess. 4:13 – 5:11

83. 2 Thess. 3:1-3

84. 1 Timothy 6:2b-19

85. 2 Timothy 2:1-19

86. Titus 2:11 – 3:8

87. Hebrews 4:14 – 5:10

88. Hebrews 11:1-40

89. Hebrews 12:1-29

90. James 2:1-26

91. James 1:26-27; 3:1-12

92. 1 Peter 1:13 – 2:10

93. 1 Peter 3:8-17

94. 1 Peter 4:7-19

95. 2 Peter 1:2-11

96. 1 John 4:7-21

97. Revelation 1:9-11; 2:1-29

98. Revelation 3:1-22

99. Revelation 5:6-14; 19:1-10

100. Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5


The List

October 30, 2008


Hours and hours of preparation have gone into this week. The time for the 25th Anniversary of the Living Christmas Tree has now arrived. As I write these words at the beginning of the week my heart is filled with anticipation for what will happen through the witness of the Tree in just a few days. Perhaps by the time you read these words you have experienced again the wonder of music, lights, and the beautiful story of Christmas. My

thanks and great appreciation go out to all of the hundreds of folks who make this event possible. Now our thoughts turn to Christmas Sunday and to Christmas Eve. This Sunday morning our journey to retrace the Footprints of Christmas will take us to “The Road to Bethlehem.” This road bears the footprints of the shepherds who came to the stable “to see this thing which is come to pass.” It also has the prints of shepherds who left the manger “glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen.” The footprints are facing in two directions – those that came to worship and those that went to tell the story. Christmas should always move us in these two directions. We will talk about this road to Bethlehem on Sunday. I hope that you will join us for worship.

Christmas Eve is the special night that concludes the Advent season. On this night we will have a Christmas Eve service at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. This worship experience will be a Candlelight Communion Service for the entire congregation and their guests. Just as we have all gathered together in one worship experience for the Sundays of Advent, we will conclude the Advent season with one service together as a Church Family on Christmas Eve.

Looking Ahead to the Holiday Schedule of Activities Sunday, December 27 – On this Sunday after Christmas we will meet for Sunday School and then worship together at 10:30. I will conclude our Advent/Christmas worship theme by looking at the footprints of Simeon as we think about “The Eyes of Hope” (Luke 2:22-40) There will be no evening activities on this Sunday night. Wednesday Night Activities – We will not have any church activities on Wednesday, December 23 or December 30. A full schedule of programs for all ages will begin again on January 6. . Sunday, January 3 – We return to two morning worship services on this first Sunday of the New Year. There will be no evening activities on this night. The regular Sunday night schedule of activities for adults, youth, children and preschool will begin again on January 10. I hope that you will have a joyous Christmas season as we celebrate the birth of Christ.

Sunday, December 20 Fourth Sunday of Advent


Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sermon:

“The Road to Bethlehem” Luke 2:8-20

Special Guest: Jane Holloway, soloist

3:00 p.m. Abbreviated LCT Program for Children

5:00 p.m. - Final LCT Presentation

* * * * * Sunday, December 27

Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sermon: “The Eyes of Hope”

Luke 2:22-40 No evening service or activities.


Christmas Eve

Candlelight Communion Service Thursday evening, December 24

5:00 p.m. - Sanctuary

The Messenger will not be published

the week of Christmas.

Ministry Calendar

Sunday, December 20 Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Worship/Sanct. 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM LCT Parkers/241 2:00 PM Orchestra/Parlor 2:30 PM LCT Children’s Program/Sanct 3:00 PM LCT Choir Assembly/FH 4:00 PM LCT Performance/Sanct 5:00 PM

Monday, December 21 No scheduled activities Tuesday, December 22 Spiritual Formations Grp./Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess./242 7:00 AM Boy Scout Trp. 70/312, 343 7:00 PM

Wednesday, December 23 No scheduled activities

Thursday, December 24 Church Offices and CLC closed Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion Service/Sanct 5:00 PM

Friday, December 25 Church Offices and CLC closed

Saturday, December 26 No scheduled activities.

AT HIS FEET Intercessory Prayer Ministry Team

Sing to the Lord, all the earth, proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. The Lord is great and greatly to be praised. 1 Chronicles 16:23-25a


Thursday, December 17 - 7:30 PM Friday, December 18 - 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 19 - 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM Sunday, December 20 - 3:00 PM* and 5:00 PM

*Abbreviated presentation for younger children.

Christmas Mini-Concerts

(15 minutes prior to presentation)

Thursday Evening ~ Brass Band of Huntsville Friday Evening ~ HCC Chamber Chorale

Saturday Afternoon ~ The FBC Big Band Saturday Evening ~ Soloist

Sunday Afternoon ~ HC3jr Sunday Evening ~ The Brotherhood

(Men’s Chorus from First Missionary Baptist, Blue Spring)

Thanks

Thank you notes have been received from Catherine Hereford (National Children’s Advocacy Center,

June Young, and Sharon and Gary Porier,

These have been placed on the bulletin board across from the church office.

Recreation Lee Deutschendorf, Ministry Intern The Christian Life Center and Recreation Ministry staff would like to wish you a blessed holiday season this year, filled with laughter, good food, fellowship, and great celebration because “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!” In observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, the Christian Life Center will follow these hours in December and January:

December 23 – close at 1 pm December 24—27 – closed December 31 – close at 1 pm January 1—3 – closed

We will resume our normal weekly hours beginning the week of January 4. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year !!!

FYI

No meal or activities on December 23

and December 30

STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week # 11—December 13, 2009


This Week $84,777.71 YTD $858,109.28


ATTENDANCE December 13, 2009

Sunday School

Preschool 83 Children 130 Students 127 Adults 695 Brookdale-Reg. Attenders 24 New Members 1 Visitors 21 TOTAL 1081

Worship Service Sanctuary Worship 1117

Year-End Contributions

The offices of FBC will close on December 31 at 5 pm. Therefore, contributions to be posted for 2009 should be received in the Finance Office by December 31. Of course, any donations postmarked by December 31 will also be counted. If you have any questions, please contact Alison at 428-9417 or [email protected]. **Remember that stock gifts, IRAs,

and other appreciated securities are a great way to donate!

Call Alison if you have questions.

LADIES’ BIBLE STUDY "Esther, It's Tough Being A Woman"

by Beth Moore

Beth explores the book of Esther and shows us how very contemporary and applicable the story of Esther is to us today.

Begins Tuesday, January 12 10-week DVD study

9:00-11:00 a.m. - Room 342 There will be optional shared leadership of this class. Contact Donna Lehman ( [email protected] or 536-9003) if interested so books can be ordered.

There is the possibility of child care, so please let Donna know if you have this need.

CANADA MISSION INTEREST MEETING

Wednesday, January 6 4:45 - 5:30 p.m.

Room 140 “Meet and Eat”

Topics: Possible locations, ministries, travel, accommodations, cost, etc.

Contact Don Newman, 881-6572, for more information



The Power of the Story Using Bible Stories

for Reaching and Reclaiming People

This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.“ Matthew 13:13

Easter to Easter Challenge Sponsored by the Experienced Adult Ministry

Open to All January 10 –12, 2010

Story Witnessing is a unique customized approach to evangelism. It is a skill-based process for sharing the Gospel in a more effective personalized manner. This approach begins with listening first to their story so you can understand the person’s perceived needs. But how well do we really listen to their stories? Most of the time people share a surface story. By developing good listening skills, then you will be able to hear the “real” story behind the surface story. Story-listening skills provide a way for us to interpret the “parables,” metaphors, and thematic material that people share. After using story-listening skills which give us ears to hear, then the next step is to choose a Bible Story that matches their story. This gives individuals the ability to identify with the Bible story and discover the answers that God has for them. Story Evangelism is a way to demonstrate God’s love and concern for the person as an individual. Sunday Lunch and a workbook will be provided. Registration deadline for this workshop is Wednesday, January 6. To Register: Call the Adult Ministry Office- 256-428-9403

Family Matters CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Brian & Kris Goodwin in the loss of his father, Craig & Karin Goodwin in the loss of his father, and Andrew, Abby, and Madelaine Goodwin in the loss of their grandfather, Sam Goodwin Beth & Stan Hardy in the loss of her aunt and Emma Hardy in the loss of her great-aunt, Eileen Appleton Joe & Frances Jones in the loss of his brother-in-law, Alan & Pam Jones in the loss of his uncle, and Angela & Bobby Sentell in the loss of her great-uncle, Tom Irwin Robert & Ann McMillan in the loss of his cousin, Carol Robinson Virginia & Earl Noe in the loss of her brother, Teresa & James Bailey in the loss of her uncle, and Glenn & Terri Brown in the loss of his uncle, Chester Brown Family and friends of our member, Helen Terry Schoper Jo Ann & Jim Splawn in the loss of her brother-in-law, Max Murray Former FBC member, Eddi Vinson, in the loss of her husband, James Vinson Cathy & Barton Warren in the loss of her mother and Wilson and Beeson Warren in the loss of their grandmother, Dorothy Wilson Gary & Jennifer Willoughby in the loss of his great-uncle and Olivia and Evan Willoughby in the loss of their great-great-uncle, Jerry Davis

October 30, 2008

First Thoughts

David Hull, Pastor

Happy New Year! As the beauty of Advent and Christmas fades away, the promise of a new year is before us with hope and possibilities. Let me encourage you to take part in opportunities for learning, growth, and spiritual renewal as the New Year begins.

This Sunday morning we return to two worship services in our normal schedule. I will preach a sermon called “Flight Training” from Deuteronomy 32:11-12. We will think about how God prepares us to fly in the year that lies before us. (There will be no evening activities this Sunday night.)

I encourage you to participate in “A Sacred Journey from Christmas

to Easter.” Read one of the passages from “The List” of 100 Essential Scripture Passages developed by my Dad. These daily readings will take you from the day after Christmas to Easter Sunday. In addition, I would love for you to select the passages that you would like to be the focus of our worship services. Beginning on January 10, I will preach on the twelve passages that have been most requested. Let me hear from you. This Sunday, January 3, is the last day to turn in your requests.

Notice the Foundations for Life offerings (elsewhere in this

newsletter) that will be provided on Sunday nights beginning January 10. Many different courses will be taught for all ages in the church. Find the one that is best for you and join us on Sunday nights. I look forward to teaching Romans with those who would like to join me on this learning journey.

Finally, we are offering a very special training course that I would like

to invite you to attend. “The Power of the Story” will be taught by Margaret Slusher, President of LeadPlus. As a creative means for personal evangelism, she will share with us how to listen to a person’s story and then how to share a matching biblical story. We will learn about “story-listening” skills and “story-telling” skills. This is offered through our Experienced Adult Ministry but is open for everyone in the church. The class meets on Sunday afternoon, January 10, and then 9:00 – 5:00 on Monday and Tuesday, January 11-12. This is a rare opportunity to learn about critical communication skills that can be used in

evangelism. I encourage you to participate if you can.

Sunday, January 3

Sermon: “Flight Training”

Deuteronomy 32:11-12

First Fellowship - 8:15 a.m. Fellowship Hall


Sanctuary Worship - 10:30 a.m.

No evening service or activities.


LADIES’ BIBLE STUDY

"Esther, It's Tough Being A Woman" by Beth Moore

Beth explores the book of Esther and shows us how very contemporary and applicable the story of Esther is to us today.

Begins Tuesday, January 12 10-week DVD study

9:00-11:00 a.m. - Room 342

There will be optional shared leadership of this class. Contact Donna Lehman ( [email protected] or 536-9003) if interested so books can be ordered.

There is the possibility of child care, so please let Donna know if you have this need.

Ministry Calendar Sunday, January 3 First Fellowship 8:15 AM Library Open 9:00-9:15 AM Sunday School 9:15 AM Library Open 10:10-10:45 AM Worship/Sanct. 10:30 AM Library Open 11:40 AM-12:00 PM NO EVENING ACTIVITIES

Monday, January 4 BSF Classes/3rd FL, Parlor, Chapel 5:00 PM Tuesday, January 5 Spiritual Formations Grp/Parlor 7:00 AM Tues. Morn. Intercess/242 7:00 AM Ministers’ Mtg/Parlor 9:00 AM Staff Mtg/Parlor 10:30 AM Music Staff Mtg/Parlor 1:00 PM Boy Scout Troop 70/343 7:00 PM

Wednesday, January 6 Library Open 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Library Open 4:00-5:00 PM Young Musicians Handbells 4:00 PM Supper/FH 4:45 PM Canada Missions Mtg/140 4:45 PM M&M/2nd, 3rd Fl 5:20 PM Men’s Study Grp. 118 5:30 PM Stewardship Comm/115 5:30 PM Y.A. Small Grp./107 5:30 PM Building Comm/114 5:30 PM Prayer Meeting/FH 5:45 PM Liftoff/309-310 6:00 PM Orchestra Reh/141,Sanct. 6:00 PM Youth Snack/312 6:30 PM Sanctuary Choir/CR 7:00 PM Finance Comm/Parlor 7:00 PM

Thursday, January 7 Men’s Fraternity/FH 6:00 AM Moms in Touch 8:00 AM ESL/1st Floor,FH 9:00 AM Forum/107 6:00 PM

Friday, January 8 MBSF Leaders/Parlor 4:45 AM Reg. Van/WEE 6:30 AM MOPS Steering Team/Library 9:00 AM Fellowship Club/FH 10:00 AM Couple Time/FH 5:00 PM

Saturday, January 9 Korean School/3rd Floor 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Music Planning Mtg/Parlor 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

AT HIS FEET Intercessory Prayer

Ministry Team

The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone. 2 Timothy 3:16-17


Music and Worship Billy Orton, Minister of Music and Worship Elizabeth Hostetter, Associate Minister of Music and Organist Amanda Allen, Minister of Children’s Music and Missions

Music Ministries to Note in 2010

Sanctuary Choir Mid-Winter Retreat— January 29-30 on-site at FBC

Preparation of Spring and Easter Repertoire, including some Bluegrass music Come and sing with us!

FBC Orchestra Concert— Sunday afternoon, February 28, at 5:00 PM Joined by the orchestra from Dawson Memorial Baptist Church of Birmingham

Huntsville Chamber Music Guild & Greater Huntsville AGO Organ Competition— March 13, noon Followed by a masterclass with Paul Jacobs

Music for Holy Week— Maundy Thursday, April 1 Good Friday, April 2 Easter Sunday, April 4

Alvy Powell, Bass— Premiere soloist from the United States Army Chorus Singing in 10:30 AM Worship at FBC on April 18

Bluegrass and Stained Glass— May 16 at 5:00 PM

Featuring Sanctuary Choir and Bluegrass Band

Music for Children and Youth Choirs— Young Musicians trip to Atlanta in February Youth Choir ministry presentations Spring and Summer Music and Missions Recognition Service on May 2 Summer Music Camp July 12-16

FBC Hymn Festival Sunday evening Fall 2010 (September or October) Led by Al Travis (Organist, Broadway Baptist Church, Ft. Worth, TX)

The 2010 Living Christmas Tree Kickoff on the Wednesday after Labor Day Presentations on December 16-19

* * * * *

Thanks to our “FBC Stitchers”

A special thanks to our “FBC Stitchers” who lovingly made the extra capes that were needed for this year’s Living Christmas Tree. Your talents and

your willingness to do this are greatly appreciated.


January 17-18 Sunday & Monday of MLK, Jr. Weekend at Seek Adventures Camp in Hazel Green Cost: $25.00 a person / $100 max a family

Includes Sunday afternoon and Monday on the Ropes Course, Meals Sunday night and Monday lunch, and worship on Sunday night

Teen-Proofing - Six-Week Course for Parents of Teens Begins Sunday, January 10, 5:00 p.m. - Room 342 Facilitated by John & Elaine Dickson See details in the insert in this newsletter

FYI

Menu Wednesday, January 6

Adults

Chicken & Dumplings Fried Okra Cole Slaw

Roll - Dessert


(Reservations for salad must be turned in by noon on

Wednesday.)


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #12 - December 20, 2009


This Week $78,794.99 YTD $936,904.27


STEWARDSHIP REPORT Week #13 - December 27, 2009


This Week $41,340.55 YTD $978,244.82



SAVE THESE DATES! January 11, 2010 MOPS January 14, 2010 Mommy Time January 24, 2010 Family Dedication January 25, 2010 MOPS February 5, 2010 Parents’ Night Out February 8, 2010 MOPS February 18, 2010 Mom Dinner February 22, 2010 MOPS

LOOKING AHEAD TO SUNDAY NIGHTS Beginning on Sunday night, January 31, and continuing for four Sunday nights in February, please join other parents in studying together Parenting by THE Book by John Rosemond. Video and discussion based, this is practical parenting for all parents. Please call the Childhood Ministries Office, 428-9411, or e-mail [email protected] to reserve a copy of the book. Childcare for Babies – 2’s and Bible teaching for 3’s – kindergarten is ongoing for Sunday nights. Activities are also available for school- age children.

Other Upcoming Student Ministry Dates

February 7 Souper Bowl of Caring—AM Super Bowl Party—5:00 PM in the CLC

March 13-17 Spring Camp

April 16-18 Mission Madness Weekend

May 22-23 Graduate Weekend

June 26—July 5 Summer Mission Trip to Waterbury, CT and Philadelphia, PA

Foundations for Life on Sunday Night (January 10 - April 25)

Foundations ± Begins January 10 ± Fellowship Hall Led by Dr. David Hull The Letter to the Romans has played an important role throughout Christian history in the renewal of individual believers. In this letter, the Apostle Paul gives us an understanding of God that has a deep foundation and that soars to great heights of faith. The book is one of the “mountain top” experiences of the entire Bible. Each Sunday night we will explore the richness of Romans and hope that this in-depth study will lead to renewal in the minds and hearts of those who participate.

Youth Choir ± Sundays at 5PM ± Choir Room

Story Evangelism ± January 10 - 12 ± Room 118 Led by Margaret Slusher, MME, MCM, President of LeadPlus The Power of the Story...Using Bible Stories for Reaching and Reclaiming People. Story Witnessing is a unique customized approach to reaching the lost. During this two and a half day workshop we will develop story-listening skills that will provide a way for us to interpret the "parables," Metaphores, and thematic materials that people share. This workshop will be led by Margaret Slusher, the developer of this story-matching approach. Registration deadline will be Wednesday, January 6th. To register, contact the Adult Ministry Office - 428-9403; [email protected]. How will they hear unless we tell? How will they listen to what we share unless we first listen to them? They want to be heard!

Financial Peace University ± Begins January 10 ± Parlor Facilitated by Hunter & Alison Hoskins This course teaches families and individuals how to handle their money through biblical, common sense principles and small group accountability. As people walk through FPU together, marriages are healed as couples get on the same page about money, parents learn how to teach their children about money, singles are kept accountable to responsible money management, and relationships within the church grow.

Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage ± Begins January 10 ± Room 111 Facilitated Bob & Cherry Saint This marriage-enhancement class is offered for all couples married for any length of time – newlywed to golden anniversary plus! Using a DVD format, we will watch as Mark Goungor, a highly entertaining speaker on the topic of marriage and family, uses a candid and comedic approach to teach marriage principles. Small-group discussion will follow the DVD presentations. You are invited to join us and let the power of laughter, useful information, and conversations with other couples add strength to your marriage! To register contact the Adult Ministry Office - 428-9403; [email protected]

Women’s Bible Study ± Begins January 10 ± Room 107 Prayer – Does It Make Any Difference? Facilitated by Pam McDaniel and various class members Using Philip Yancey’s book on prayer as a guide, we will explore questions about prayer: What is prayer? Is God listening? Does it make any difference? How can I grow deeper in my prayer life? The class format will include watching DVD segments, class conversation, and some at-home supplemental Bible study and prayer journaling. Women of all ages and life stages are invited to participate! Please contact the Adult Ministry Office by January 3 so that the appropriate number of study guides can be purchased. Cost: $5.00

Stretch Out Your Hand… Exploring Healing Prayer ± Begins January 10 ± Room 141 Facilitated by Eugenia Graves This study explores the basic understanding that healing prayer is more than getting well from an illness… it is part of a beautiful and dynamic process leading to the wholeness that God wills for us. Please contact the Adult Ministry Office - 428-9403; [email protected] by January 3 so that the appropriate number of study guides can be purchased. Cost: $8.50

Teen-Proofing ± Begins January 10 ± Room 342 Facilitated by John & Elaine Dickson How capable is your child in making a decision? Here is the second part to that question, how capable are they in making a responsible decision? Now ask, how are you equipping them to make responsible decisions? This 6-week course will study John Rosemond’s book to help enable parents in “fostering responsible decision making in your teenager.”

Parent Talk Time ± January 10 – Grades 5 & 6; January 17 – Grades 1 & 2; January 24 – Grades 3 & 4 ± Room 108D Facilitated by Cindy Russell

Parenting by the Book ± January 31 - February 21 ± Room 108D Curriculum: Parenting by the Book by John Rosemond Facilitated by Joy Moore Using the Bible as his basis, John teaches that parenting is leadership. This study will help you know how to put your leadership to work for your child’s benefit as well as your own. There are seasons to parenthood, just as there are seasons to the raising of crops. According to John, if we do what’s required in each season success is pretty much guaranteed. Cost: $10.00

Children’s Bible Drill ± Begins January 10 ± Grades 4 - 6 ± Rooms 225 & 226 Led by Debbie Howard Helps children explore God's Word and prepare for Bible Drill by learning Bible books, verses and key passages. They will study the history and people of the Bible, discover how God's Word applies to their lives, and prepare for an exciting Bible Drill!

Bible Skills and Thrills ± Begins January 10 ± Grades 1 - 3 ± Room 227 Led by Barbara Sizemore Helps children to develop Bible skills. By participating your child can learn Bible skills through games, crafts, drama, puzzles, music, and other fun activities. The children will develop a foundation of Bible knowledge including Bible books, verses and key passages.

Love Dare ± Begins March 7 ± Room 111 Facilitated by Bob & Cherry Saint

Visionary Parenting ± Begins March 7 ± Room 108D Facilitated by Cindy Russell Designed to help parents capture a God-sized vision for their family. These lessons will inspire you to be the parent that God wants you to be, and you will learn new practical tools that you can put to use right away. Visionary Parenting will inspire and equip parents to impress the hearts of their kids with a love for God along with a wide variety of other parenting resources.

Women’s Bible Study ± Begins March 7 ± Room 107 Curriculum and Facilitator TBD

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PERIODICAL 600 GOVERNORS DRIVE HUNTSVILLE, AL 35801 The MESSENGER (USPS 591-280) is published weekly except the week of Christmas by First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Periodical postage paid at Huntsville, Alabama 31801-5178. POSTMASTER send change of address to THE MESSENGER, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801. Volume 61, Number 51. December 31, 2009


EARLY ADULTHOOD MINISTRY Dates to Note:

January 7 FORUM resumes…Young Adult Bible Study & Discussion Group

January 8

COUPLE TIME GAME NIGHT… because giving time and attention to the marriage relationship is important

January 7

MEN’S FRATERNITY resumes

January 10 THIRTYSOMETHINGS…New Single Adult Group begins

January 10

LAUGH YOUR WAY TO A BETTER MARRIAGE begins on Sunday nights WOMEN’S STUDY: PRAYER begins on Sunday nights

January 14

MOMMY TIME FELLOWSHIP…caring for the “me” in “mommy!”

March 5-6 MARRIAGE RETREAT…Fireproof Your Marriage

To sign up or for more information, contact the Adult Ministry Office,

[email protected]; 428-9403.

Loving, Serving, and Growing in 2010 and beyond!

Family Matters

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Noah Darby 360 Douglass Rd NW Huntsville, AL 35806-2216 CHRISTIAN SYMPATHY Jane Harrington in the loss of her sister, Lorraine Burnett Sallie & James Keith in the loss of her aunt, Anna Frances Moore Gordon and Pat Perry in the loss of his sister, Sarah Echols. She was the aunt of Elaine (John) Dickson and Rebecca Perry, and the great-aunt of Jeremy, Christopher, and Patrick Dickson. Kenneth Stevenson in the loss of his wife Jo Stevenson.

Thanks Thank you notes have been received from Dr. Ann Roy Moore, the Bill Weatherly Family, Jane Harrington, Elaine Dickson & Christian Women’s Job Corps, Vanessa Steger, and Betty Jane Tilghman.

These have been posted on the bulletin board across from the Church Office.

Weekday Early Education Ministry Menu December 2009

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

1 Snack: Cheese and Crackers/

Juice French Toast Sticks

Sausage Orange Juice 1/2 Banana Milk


2 *Snack: Mandarin Oranges/

Butter cookies/Water Chicken Fingers

Macaroni and Cheese Brussell Sprouts Roll Cookies

Milk Snack: Cookies/Juice

3 *Snack: Cinnamon Toast/

Juice Lasagna Broccoli

Roll Pears Milk Snack: Snack Mix/Juice

4 Snack: Graham Cracker /

Cream Cheese / Juice Meat Loaf

Mashed Potatoes Green Peas Roll Vanilla Pudding Milk

*Snack: Sugar cookies/Juice

7 *Snack: Cinnamon Toast/Juice

Chicken Pot Pie Roll

Peaches Milk Snack: Goldfish/Juice

8 Snack: Pretzels /Bugles/Juice

Steak Nuggets Rice Green Beans Roll Cookie Milk

Snack: Bananas/Vanilla Wafers Water

9 *Snack: Mandarin Oranges/

Butter Cookies/Water Ravioli

Green Salad Toast Pears Milk


10 Snack: Cheese/Saltines/

Juice Chicken Fingers

Mashed Potatoes Turnips Roll

Banana Pudding Milk Snack: Cereal Mix/Juice

11 Snack: Cinnamon Grahams/

Juice Ham and Cheese Sub

Chips Carrot Sticks w/ Dip (Goldfish and Cooked Carrots

for younger children) Applesauce Milk

*Snack: Blueberry Muffins/Juice

14 Snack: Puffed Corn/Juice Chicken and Bowtie Pasta

Spinach Roll

Mandarin Oranges Milk Snack: Cookies/Juice


Hamburger / Cheese (pickles / condiments)

Carrot Sticks w/ Dip (cooked carrots for younger children)

Tater Tots Bananas Milk Snack: Apple Slices/Cheese

Water

16 Snack: Oreo Cookies/Juice

Pizza Green Salad

Pears Milk

Snack: Snack Mix/Juice

17 *Snack: Peaches/Butter

Crackers/Juice Chicken Nuggets Mashed Potatoes

Broccoli Roll Chocolate Pudding Milk Snack: Graham Cracker Cream Cheese/Juice

18 Snack: Cheese Crackers/

Goldfish/Juice Ham

Okra Sweet Potato Patty Cornbread Cookie

Milk *Snack: Chocolate Chip

Cookies / Juice

21 Snack: Cheese and Crackers/Juice

French Toast Sticks Sausage Orange Juice

1/2 Banana Milk Snack: Cookies/Juice

Half Day Closed

22 *Snack: Applesauce/Cinnamon

Grahams/Water Spaghetti

Green Beans Garlic Toast Chocolate

Pudding Milk

Snack: Puffed Corn/Juice

Half Day Closed

23 Snack: Pretzels / Bugles / Juice

Taco Salad w/ lettuce, tomato, salsa

(no corn chips for younger children)

Cornbread Applesauce Milk Snack: Bananas/Vanilla Wa-

fers/Water

Half Day Closed

28 Snack: Snack Mix/Juice

Sausage and Shells California Blend Vegetables

Roll Pears Milk Snack: Rice Krispie Treat / Juice

Half Day Closed

29 *Snack: Vanilla Pudding Butter Crackers/Water

Chicken and Dumplings Green Peas Roll Peaches Milk

Snack: Pretzels/Bugles/Juice

Half Day Closed

30 *Snack: Biscuits / Jelly / Juice

Beef Stew Cheese Toast Applesauce

Milk Snack: Cookies / Juice

Half Day Closed

31 Snack: Bananas/Vanilla

Wafers/Water Pizza Green Salad

Mandarin oranges Milk Snack: Cereal Mix/Juice

Center Closes at 3:00

24

Center Closed

25

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Center Closed

*Provided by kitchen

** Due to the supplier, there may be some substitutions. **

THE LIST

A Sacred Journey from Christmas to Easter

First Baptist Church Huntsville, Alabama

I have always enjoyed the music of Johnny Cash. In fact, the very first concert of popular music that I ever attended was when my parents took me to a Johnny Cash concert at the Kentucky State Fair for my twelfth birthday. About that same time my Dad and I would watch the Johnny Cash show on television together.

A recent newspaper article caught my eye. It seems that this icon of country music had made a list of 100 Essential Country Songs and passed it down to his daughter Roseanne many years ago. She has now recorded twelve of them in a recording called “The List.” From the experience of the father comes a list that has now been interpreted by the child and has been shared with the larger community. I saw possibilities for the church in what I was reading, so I asked my Dad to make a list.

For the last sixty years my Dad has been preaching and teaching the Scriptures in churches, seminaries, and colleges. His work as a biblical scholar, pastoral preacher, and administrative leader gives him a unique perspective to offer a list of 100 Essential Scripture Passages. You will find his suggestions in this brochure. I believe that your spiritual journey will be enriched by giving thoughtful and prayerful study to these passages from the Bible.

Here is a suggestion for a special season in the life of First Baptist Church. As we begin a new century in our history with the dawning of 2010, I call each one of us to a time of renewal and commitment. I encourage you to do the following:

1. Begin on the day after Christmas and read one passage per day. Let these words of Scripture lead you into a time of prayer. Discuss what you are reading each day with family and friends. The 100 passages will take you from the day after Christmas until Easter. If we all set out on such a journey, this would make an enriching time of spiritual renewal as we move into the next chapter in the history of our church.

2. Select twelve passages that you would like for us to use as the focus of worship during the season of January until Easter. You can make these selections by circling your choices on paper forms that can be placed in boxes around the church. What passages would you like to hear as the basis for messages in our worship services? Let me know what you are thinking. We will receive your suggestions through January 3.

3. Join us for a worship message series called THE LIST that will begin on January 10. I will preach on the twelve passages that have been most requested by the church. Our worship together as a community will hopefully strengthen our private devotions and daily reading over these months.

I am most grateful for THE LIST provided by my Dad. I invite you to make a sacred journey through these verses in the hope that we will all be blessed by the music of God’s grace.

David W. Hull

100 Essenti

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ssential

100 Essenti

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Scripture

Scripture

Scripture

Scripture

Passages

Passages

PassagesPassages

100 ESSENTIAL SCRIPTURE PASSAGES

William E. Hull

In the summer of 1973, the legendary folk singer Johnny Cash handed his eighteen year old daughter Rosanne a sheet of yellow lined paper on which he had listed “100 Essential

Country Songs.” Discussing with his daughter the launching her own musical career, he

had become alarmed at the songs she didn’t know, and so he set about to identify the

best of what he had spent his life singing to leave as a legacy lest this heritage be forgotten.

At first Rosanne laid the list aside as she forged her own vocational pathway. It lay forgotten in a box of memorabilia until she happened upon it in 2005. Soon her fans

began to ask when she was going to record the songs selected by her father, a

suggestion she at first rejected in order to concentrate on her work as a songwriter. Finally her husband convinced her to begin the project and now we have the hit CD

appropriately entitled “The List” containing twelve of the songs that her father had

chosen.

Borrowing from the concern of Johnny Cash that at least “100 Essential Country Songs”

not be forgotten, is it not infinitely more important that at least “100 Essential Scripture Passages” not be forgotten? Just as Cash looked back over a lifetime of singing to

make his musical selections, so I have looked back over a lifetime of teaching and

preaching the Bible to make my scriptural selections, the results of which you see below.

Admittedly my choices are personal, but if you think of passages more meaningful to

your spiritual life than the ones I picked, make substitutions and eventually the list will

become yours rather than mine. But how can only 100 passages containing 2,184 verses do justice to the totality of Scripture with 31,101 verses? Here the idea behind the word

“Essential” is to provide a core comprising only seven percent of the Bible’s total content

in the hope that mastery of these pivotal passages will inspire you to study all the rest!

Even a summary effort such as this can be facilitated by a systematic plan, so let me

suggest one for your consideration. These 100 passages average twenty-two verses each which can be read carefully, thoughtfully, and prayerfully in ten minutes or less.

Surely you can budget that much time each day for one of these passages even when

the hectic pace of life competes for attention at every moment. I have arranged the passages in their biblical sequence so that reading them consecutively will give some

sense of the sweep of Scripture. An ideal time to begin this journey is on the day after

Christmas 2009. Read one passage a day for 100 days without interruption and you will

finish on Easter Sunday, 2010. This is the finest legacy I can offer. And it is yours for the taking.

1. Genesis 1:1 – 2:3

2. Genesis 3:1-24

3. Genesis 18:1-15

4. Genesis 28:10-22; 32:22-31

5. Genesis 42:1-5; 43:1-9; 44:18 – 45:5

6. Exodus 2:23 – 3:15

7. Exodus 20:1-17

8. Joshua 1:1-18

9. Judges 7:1-23

10. 1 Samuel 3:1 – 4:1a

11. 1 Samuel 17:1-11, 32-54

12. 1 Kings 8:22-30, 54-61

13. 1 Kings 19:1-18

14. Ezra 9:5-15

15. Nehemiah 8:1-12

16. Job 38:1-18; 40:1-9; 42:1-6

17. Psalm 8:1-9

18. Psalm 23:1-6

19. Psalm 32:1-11

20. Psalm 51:1-17

21. Psalm 73:1-28

22. Psalm 90:1-17

23. Psalm 139:1-24

24. Proverbs 2:1-22

25. Proverbs 3:1-35

26. Proverbs 8:1-36

27. Isaiah 6:1-8

28. Isaiah 35:1-10

29. Isaiah 40:1-31

30. Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

31. Jeremiah 7:1-15

32. Ezekiel 37:1-14

33. Daniel 6:1-28

34. Hosea 1:2-9; 3:1-5

35. Hosea 11:1-11

36. Amos 5:4-24

37. Jonah 1:1-10; 3:1-10

38. Micah 6:1-16

39. Habakkuk 2:1-14

40. Malachi 3:1-12, 16 – 4:6

41. Matthew 3:13 – 4:22

42. Matthew 5:1-16

43. Matthew 6:1-18

44. Matthew 25:31-46

45. Matthew 28:1-20

46. Mark 2:1 – 3:6

47. Mark 4:1-34

48. Mark 8:27 – 9:8

49. Mark 11:1-24

50. Mark 14:22-42

The List

51. Luke 4:14-44

52. Luke 10:25-37

53. Luke 15:1-32

54. Luke 23:33-49

55. Luke 24:13-35

56. John 1:1-18

57. John 3:1-21

58. John 6:35-65

59. John 11:1-44

60. John 13:33 – 14:27

61. John 17:1-26

62. John 20:1-31

63. Acts 2:1-47

64. Acts 9:1-30

65. Acts 15:1-35

66. Acts 20:17-35

67. Romans 6:1-23

68. Romans 8:1-39

69. Romans 12:1-21





74. 2 Cor. 5:11 – 6:10

75. Galatians 5:13 – 6:10




79. Philippians 2:1-18

80. Philippians 3:4 – 4:1

81. Colossians 1:3-23

82. 1 Thess. 4:13 – 5:11

83. 2 Thess. 3:1-3

84. 1 Timothy 6:2b-19

85. 2 Timothy 2:1-19

86. Titus 2:11 – 3:8

87. Hebrews 4:14 – 5:10

88. Hebrews 11:1-40

89. Hebrews 12:1-29

90. James 2:1-26

91. James 1:26-27; 3:1-12

92. 1 Peter 1:13 – 2:10

93. 1 Peter 3:8-17

94. 1 Peter 4:7-19

95. 2 Peter 1:2-11

96. 1 John 4:7-21

97. Revelation 1:9-11; 2:1-29

98. Revelation 3:1-22

99. Revelation 5:6-14; 19:1-10

100. Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5


The List

2009 Messengers

Documents

Transcript of 2009 Messengers