Because He Lives - Wheatlandmbcwheatland.org/downloads/April Newsletter 2011.pdf · we gave thanks...

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THE MEMORIAL MESSENGER Memorial Baptist Church exists to glorify God; and is committed to helping each individual understand that they are truly loved by Him, accepted by His followers, and offered life-changing hope in Jesus. Memorial Baptist Church 202 19 th Street Website: www.mbcwheatland.org Phone: (307) 322-3236 Wheatland, WY 82201 E-mail: [email protected] Because He Lives Because He Lives Because He Lives Because He LivesJoin us as we celebrate the Greatest Event in all History… The Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ ! Discover a taste of community, and friendly people who love the Lord. Please be comfortable… no need to dress to impress. This is your personal invitation to spend Easter Sunday with us here at Memorial Baptist Church… Doors open at 9:00 a.m. on Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011. Meet and Greet…snacks and coffee will be served. Small Bible Learning Groups for all ages at 9:45 a.m. A well-supervised Nursery will be provided for the little ones. Praise and Worship Celebration at 11:00 a.m. Plan to remain after Worship for a wonderful Easter dinner for everyone. Invite your friends, relatives, and neighbors! Memorial Baptist will furnish baked ham. Please bring side dishes, breads, and desserts. Please call us at 322-3236 if you have any questions.

Transcript of Because He Lives - Wheatlandmbcwheatland.org/downloads/April Newsletter 2011.pdf · we gave thanks...

THE MEMORIAL

MESSENGER Memorial Baptist Church exists to glorify God; and is committed to helping each individual understand that they are truly loved by Him, accepted by His followers, and offered life-changing hope in Jesus.

Memorial Baptist Church 202 19th Street Website: www.mbcwheatland.org Phone: (307) 322-3236 Wheatland, WY 82201 E-mail: [email protected]

Because He LivesBecause He LivesBecause He LivesBecause He Lives…………

Join us as we celebrate the Greatest Event in all History…

The Resurrection of our Lord and Savior,

Jesus Christ!

Discover a taste of community, and friendly people who love the Lord.

Please be comfortable… no need to dress to impress.

This is your personal invitation to spend Easter Sunday with us here at Memorial Baptist Church…

� Doors open at 9:00 a.m. on Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011. � Meet and Greet…snacks and coffee will be served. � Small Bible Learning Groups for all ages at 9:45 a.m. � A well-supervised Nursery will be provided for the little ones. � Praise and Worship Celebration at 11:00 a.m. � Plan to remain after Worship for a wonderful Easter dinner for everyone.

Invite your friends, relatives, and neighbors!

Memorial Baptist will furnish baked ham. Please bring side dishes, breads, and desserts. Please call us at 322-3236 if you have any questions.

So Much to CelebrateSo Much to CelebrateSo Much to CelebrateSo Much to Celebrate………… We may not remember it “like it was yesterday”, but it was a day that will always hold special memories for us. September 7, 2008 was

approximately 31 months ago. The Sunday morning air was cool and refreshing as we gathered with a sense of excitement mixed with uncertainty. We prayed together, thanked God and worshipped, we rejoiced; and together, as we pulled the ropes tethered to an old plow, we

broke ground. That morning, we put things in perspective by reading Deuteronomy 16:11,

“It is time to celebrate before the Lord your God at the place He chooses for Him Name to be honored.” After breaking ground, we filled small containers with soil to keep as a reminder of what God had done; and then we gave thanks for all the ways we believed He would continue to bless us.

This was the culmination of a long process and an awesome answer to many sincere prayers of the people of MBC. It was also the beginning of much more. What a thrill it is to be part of what God is doing here in the

lives of those He dearly loves! If you’re new at MBC since that ground breaking day, please know that we joined hands around the outline of the proposed building that morning and prayed for you, too.

Though some of the details were unsettled, it was a great time of celebration. As we went forward in faith, ideas continued to form, visions were focused, gifts and offerings were given, blessings received. We marveled as God continued to graciously respond to the faithfulness of His people. When we began to grasp

and surrender to God’s will, He blessed us tremendously. Brown Church Development built our new facility, and it went up so quickly that it was the talk of the town. We were surprised at how quickly things progressed and by how wonderful it looked. (Remember the open house and the tours?) What great times of continued

unity and blessing! In April, 2009, after so much hard work, dedication, and sacrifice, “the day” arrived. We celebrated our first

service early that Easter morning with a meal together. Just what you’d expect from us! Breakfast was followed by an awesome time of celebration and worship of the Lord Jesus.

The “Celebration before the Lord your God” is just beginning! This Easter, we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, as well as the second anniversary of moving into this great new building. We’ll have great music; we’ll worship the Lord; and we’ll have the customary meal after our morning worship. But, this year, we’re

going to celebrate continued blessings from the Lord – and we’re going to burn our mortgage!! In case you haven’t heard, due to tithes and offerings both large and small, our note at the bank was paid in full before our second anniversary in this building. Thank you to everyone who has helped us through prayer,

sacrifice, support, and labor. May the Lord continue to be glorified! Thanks be to God…there is no more debt! We are blessed. Join us this Easter as we “Praise God from

Whom all blessings flow.” “How good it is to sing praises to

our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him.” (Psalm 147:1)

We are blessed, because we are loved.

Pastor CraigPastor CraigPastor CraigPastor Craig

Ellen’s Ellen’s Ellen’s Ellen’s ““““Wish ListWish ListWish ListWish List””””

A missionary serving in Zambia with the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, Ellen Ruiz is the daughter of our own Jack & Ruanne Miller.

In the photo at left, Ellen is seen “getting acquainted” with some of the wildlife native to her part of Africa.

Ellen is in charge of the “Guest House” in her area, where anyone visiting the mission compound comes to stay. Many times, missionaries come from out in the

field to stay at this facility to rest and to replenish their supplies. Ellen’s work involves responsibility for the safety and scheduling of the guards, the housekeepers, and all those who work at the Guest House.

Ellen relates that life in her new environment is very interesting and much different than what we are accustomed to here in the United States. There are many food and personal care items, which we take for

granted, that are unavailable to Ellen.

This is Ellen’s “Wish List” of items, which would certainly be helpful to her and her friends…

Lipton Decaffeinated Tea (family-size bags) United States First Class “Forever” Stamps

Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix

Lubriderm Lotion Herbal Essence Shampoo Herbal Essence Conditioner

Muffin Mixes (no chocolate, please)

Dryer Fabric Softener Sheets Cornbread Mixes

Pasta Meals

Seasoning Packets: Spaghetti, Meatloaf, Taco, Beef Stew, Pot Roast, and Chicken Graham Crackers

Graham Cracker Crumbs

Ziploc bags (quart and gallon sizes) Dove Ultimate Go Fresh Revive Deodorant

Gatorade powder (single-serving packets in any flavor except fruit punch – can be found at Walmart)

Country Time drink mixes (single-serving packets) Propel Fitness Water Mixes (individual powder packets – single servings)

During the month of June, Ellen’s mother, Ruanne, and her niece, Ophelia, will be traveling to Zambia for a visit with her. Ruanne tells us that it is much more

economical to pay for an extra piece of luggage, filled with items which Ellen needs, than to have them shipped to her. If you would like to contribute any of

the above items to Ellen, you may drop them off in the church office in a plastic tote labeled and reserved for that purpose. If you have questions, please contact Ruanne or the church office.

Remember that, each year, the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions goes to support

missionaries just like Ellen throughout the entire world.

Vacation Bible School

Scheduled for June 12-16 Theme Verse: “So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message of Jesus Christ.” Romans 10:17 (HCSB)

Theme Motto: Hear It! Believe It! Connect It!

Our VBS Director, Lu Lay, reminds everyone to get ready for our “Big

Apple Adventure…Where Faith and Life Connect”, coming up in a mere 10 weeks! This year, we will be “traveling” to the “Big Apple” (New York

City) to discover “Where Faith and Life Connect.” As kids explore the big city, they

will learn how to step out in faith and connect with Jesus – sharing the message of Christ with their world. There will be great music and worship, Bible learning, missions, imaginative crafts, fun snacks, and rousing recreation for all kids ages 3

years through 6th grade!

Attention, Adults & Teens…would you enjoy assisting with this year’s Big Apple

Adventure? Soon, Lu will need to confirm teachers and helpers for each area. Don’t miss this great opportunity to reach out and touch young lives for Christ! Watch your church bulletins for the next VBS Volunteers Meeting, and plan to get involved. Feel

free to contact Lu Lay or the church office to add your name to our list of workers!

Successful spring break mission trip!

Pictured above are some of the adults and children from Memorial Baptist Church who spent part of their

Spring Break (March 25-27, 2011) assisting the Risen Son Baptist Church in Thermopolis, Wyoming, in preparing their “Messiah’s Mall” Food Pantry for operation. They painted the walls of the food pantry and helped in other ways, as well. Special thanks to Ruanne Miller for sharing this photo.

“Jesus Christ cannot forget us; we have been graven on the palms of His hands.” -- Lois Picillo

“The stone was rolled away from the door, not to permit Christ to come out, but to enable the disciples to go in.”

-- Peter Marshall

Calling All Women… Let’s Celebrate

Those April Birthdays! “A woman is like a teabag. It’s only when she’s in hot water

that you realize how strong she is.” -- Nancy Reagan

Does having a relaxed lunch with friends of all ages sound like

something you would enjoy? You have the opportunity to do just that…on the second Monday of each month, as the women who attend Memorial Baptist Church meet to celebrate with those having birthdays! This is your invitation to attend! You will find a warm welcome among

this group!

Date & Time: Monday, April 11, 2011 at 12:00 noon Location: Big A Restaurant, 1553 South Street

Birthday Cake provided by: Judy Huffaker April Flower: Sweet Pea or Daisy April Birthstone: Diamond

Those celebrating April birthdays are: Charlene Johnson (April 4)

Chery Walsh (April 8) Joanne Mason (April 15)

Ruanne Miller (April 17) Becky Benton (April 23)

Stacey Benson (April 24) Saundra Horblit (April 26) Sherry Muchmore (April 27)

Judy Horton (April 29) Joan Smith (April 29)

If you are celebrating a birthday in April, and your name is not listed above, please contact Carol at the church office. We truly don’t want to miss anyone! If you would like transportation, or just need further details,

please telephone the church office at 322-3236.

Speedy Brownies A yummy recipe from the Taste of Home website,

and offered on the dessert table at our February “Night under the Tuscan Stars” banquet…

2 cups sugar

1 ¾ cups flour ½ cup baking cocoa

1 teaspoon salt

5 eggs

1 cup canola oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate

chips

Directions: • In a large bowl, beat the first seven ingredients. Pour into a greased 13x9x2-inich baking pan.

Sprinkle with chocolate chips. • Bake at 350º for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan

on a wire rack. Yield: about 3 dozen.

“Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing yet had been done.” -- C.S. Lewis

Stories behind the Songs…

“He Lives”

“He is not here; for He is risen, as He said.” Matthew 28:6a

“Why should I worship a dead Jew?” That question – and a dreadful radio sermon – inspired this hymn.

Alfred Henry Ackley was born in Pennsylvania in 1887. He showed great promise as a child, and his musician-father personally tutored him before

sending him to New York City to study music. From there, it was on to the Royal Academy of Music in London. Alfred then returned to the States to attend Westminster Seminary in Maryland, and he was ordained into the Presbyterian ministry in 1914. After pastoring a church in his home state of Pennsylvania, Alfred was called to a congregation in California.

It was there in 1932, that Alfred met a Jewish man to whom he began witnessing. But the man resisted the Christian faith, saying, “Why should I worship a dead Jew?”

That statement played on Alfred’s mind as he prepared his Easter Sunday message. Rising early to prepare for the day, Alfred flipped on the radio as he shaved, and was astonished to hear a famous liberal

preacher in New York say: “Good morning – it’s Easter! You know, folks, it really doesn’t make any difference to me if Christ be risen or not. As far as I am concerned, His body could be dust in some Palestinian tomb. The main thing is…His truth goes marching on!”

Alfred wanted to fling the radio across the room. “It’s a lie!” Alfred exclaimed. His wife rushed into the bathroom to see why he was shouting. “Didn’t you hear what that preacher said?” Alfred replied.

That morning, Alfred preached with great vigor on the reality of Christ’s Resurrection, and he did the same at the evening service. But later that night, he was still stressed over his friend’s question and that

morning’s radio sermon. “Listen here, Alfred Ackley,” his wife said at last. “It’s time you did that which you can do best. Why don’t you write a song about it, and then maybe you’ll feel better?”

Alfred went to his study, opened the Bible, and re-read the Resurrection account from Mark’s Gospel. A

thrill went through him, and he began writing the words to “He Lives.” A few minutes later, he was at the piano putting it to music, not dreaming it would become one of the church’s most triumphant Easter hymns. -- excerpted from Then Sings My Soul by Robert J. Morgan

“I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today; I know that He is living, whatever men may say; I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer, And just the time I need Him, He’s always near.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way.

He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives: He lives within my heart.”

-- words and music by Alfred Henry Ackley

Our Newest MembersOur Newest MembersOur Newest MembersOur Newest Members…………

The Memorial Baptist Family would like to extend a warm welcome to several new members who have joined us thus far in 2011. Coming to

us by promise of letter from their former churches are: Dr. E.R. and Jackie Cagle

and

Gary, Lisa, and Dylan Applegate We are thankful for all of them, and look forward to many years of fellowship in the Lord’s service here at Memorial Baptist. If you have not already met our new members, please introduce yourself to these

wonderful folks, and make them welcome!

Dear Church Family, Thank you for the cards, the lovely plant and especially for your prayers. My surgery went very well and I feel much, much better. I do appreciate your concern and support. Praise God for my return to good health. Linda Patterson

Dear Church Family, During a time like this we realize how much our friends and relatives really mean to us. Your expression of sympathy will always be remembered. “Thanks” seems so small for all you all did for us. We can’t imagine not having a church family at a time like this. We do, so much, appreciate all of you. Thank you, too, for the veggie trays and the use of the church building. Thank you for that beautiful floral tribute! Love in Christ, Duane, Judy, and family

To my dear family at Memorial Baptist, Thanks so much for the card and the prayers! My surgery went well; now for the 4 months of recovery. I would appreciate your continued prayers for healing. I had excellent results from the first surgery and am hoping and praying for the same the second time. God bless you, Linda Herman

Our Thinking… His Promise… It’s impossible. All things are possible. (Luke 18:27)

I’m too tired. I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28-30) Nobody really loves me. I love you. (John 3:16) I can’t go on. My grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

I can’t figure things out. I will direct your steps. (Proverbs 20:24) I can’t do it. You can do all things. (Philippians 4:13) I’m not able. God is able. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

It’s not worth it. It will be worth it. (Romans 8:28) I can’t forgive myself. I forgive you. (1 John 1:9) I can’t manage. I will supply all you need. (Philippians 4:19)

I’m afraid. I have not given you a spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7) I’m always worried and frustrated. Cast all your care upon Me. (1 Peter 5:7) I haven’t enough faith. I’ve given everyone a measure of faith. (Romans 12:3)

I’m not smart enough. I give you wisdom. (1 Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5) I feel so alone. I will never leave you or forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5) …submitted by Richard Eliason

April Birthday & Anniversary CelebrationsApril Birthday & Anniversary CelebrationsApril Birthday & Anniversary CelebrationsApril Birthday & Anniversary Celebrations

1 – Howard Bise, Linda Herman, Derrick Lockman 3 – Lane Peasley 4 – Caitlin Grant, Charlene Johnson 6 – Pat Cullen Josh Evans 8 – Chery Walsh 10 – Meghan Brix, Matt Evans, Viviana Hollister 14 – Luke Knott, Haylie Louthan 15 – Joanne Mason

16 – Marion Jester 17 – Ruanne Miller 18 – Christopher Chason, Clay Grant, Khody Snyder 21 – John Burns, Sheldon Harnish, Matt Loveland 23 – Becky Benton 24 – Stacey Benson 25 – Christine Italiano 26 – Dale & Reneé McKain (A), Saundra Horblit 27 – Sherry Muchmore 29 – Joan Smith

Just around the Corner Just around the Corner Just around the Corner Just around the Corner in in in in MayMayMayMay…………

1 – Trey Johnson, Mick & Vicki Mickelsen (A) 3 – Lane Peasley 4 – Shelby Sterling 6 – Glenn Chance, Judy Huffaker 7 – Duane & Sherry Muchmore (A) 9 – Chris & Elaine Chason (A), Ken & Amber Grant (A) 10 – Raegan Harnish 11 – Kayla Boughton, Matt Goertz 18 – Duane Huffaker, Kevin Johnson 19 – Catherine “Kitty” Evans 20 – Juanita Boaz, Lizette Lopez

23 – Kirby Cagle, Robert Lowder, Darlene Palmer. Alan & Misty Snook (A) 24 – Melody Chason, Seth DeWitt 25 – Rex & Peggy Johnson (A), Ruby Lockman, Josh Loveland 26 – Braiden Harnish 27 – Walt Thornton 29 – Grace Battershell, Travis Fertig 30 – Bonn Boyd, Leslie Louthan, Travis Witt

Do we have your birthdays and anniversaries on our list?

Please call us at the church at 322-3236, and tell us your special day(s)!

How to Live LongerHow to Live LongerHow to Live LongerHow to Live Longer!!!!

In George Burns’ book, Wisdom for the Nineties, he gave “ten don’ts for a long life”… Don’t smoke…don’t drink…don’t gamble…don’t eat salt…don’t eat sugar…

don’t eat fats…don’t over-exercise, don’t over-eat, don’t under-eat, don’t play around.

Author’s Note: You may not live longer, but it will seem longer!

-- from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Retirement by Paul W. Powell

Please feel free to telephone the church office at 322-3236 if you would like to have us join with you in prayer for a need.

Sympathy: The Family of Helen Brecht The Family of Casey Cormier The Family of Bill Ellis The Family of Glenna Huffaker The Family of David Johnson Laurie Moede (loss of mother) Dick & Pat Morrison (loss of Dick’s brother) Stephanie Mote & Family (loss of grandmother and uncle) The Family of Harold Steeley

Health & Other Needs: Abby (Ellings’ granddaughter) The Applegates Kelly Atterbury Jeffrey Bailey Derek Barton Dena Becket’s father John Benton’s parents Candace Boersma’s father The Brix Family Bill Brooks (friend of the Hattons) Fern Burke (Maudie Louthan’s sister) Dr. E.R. & Jackie Cagle Ray Carlson Carol Ann (friend of Linda Fabian) Glenn Chance Clint Chason Christa

Ron Coleman (friend of Dorthea & Char) Floyd Cowell Sally Craig (Bonnie Terrell’s cousin) Bill Dawson Louie DeBeery (friend of Dorthea Henderson) Richard Eliason Samantha Evans Kelly Farris Carlie Fraher (grand niece of Doris Soule) Darlene Franke Decklun Garwood Glenn (Lu Lay’s father) Mae Guild Dalen Gunter Misty Hale & Dakotia Miken Harnish’s cousin & family Chase Harrison (friend of Evelyn Kessinger) Linda Herman Ehren Hunter, wife, and baby Riley Christine Italiano Joe & Clara Lou Johnson Karina (Bonnie Terrell’s niece) Kathy Kirsten (daughter of the Terrells) Ramona Knott Henry Korell (Shari DeWitt’s grandpa) John & Terri Krause (Sylvia Louthan’s relatives) Patty Levine (niece of Ruby Lockman) Merl Lockwood Beverly Luchsinger Tammy Martin Matt & Todd (Roxie Wickam’s sons) Joanne Mason Mark McClimon (Dawn Brix’s cousin) Jill McCormick (friend of Sue Baker)

Barbara McGuire Jack Miller Ed Morris Stephanie Mote’s step-mother Vincent Paustin (Roxie Wickam’s grandson) Trigg Peasley Bryan & Michelle Peed & Debby (friends of the Louthans) Louise Roberts Ellen Ruiz Pat Russell Cindy Rutherford (Judy Huffaker’s relative) Shelly Schultz & girls Delmer Sheeley (Scott DeWitt’s uncle) Don Sherard Mona Sherard Linda Snook Gary Snyder Brett Spiker (Russells’ son-in-law) Tamara Spohn Sue & David (Sylvia Louthan’s relatives) Butch Terrell’s son Terrells’ granddaughter Freddie Lou Weldon Piper Whitney Paul Wiley (Larry Elling’s brother-in-law) Scott Woolsey Yuki & Family (in Japan) Zavier (Shelley Sterling’s cousin)

Military: Matt Anderson Ben (Morin’s son USAF) Sam Ethridge & his troops (Craig’s cousin’s husband) Chris Evans Dane Griffin Karen Hamden’s brother Roy Hitt Brandon Johnson Duane Messner Landon Tyson

April – May – June

2011

April 3rd

Lauri Palmer & Hannah Battershell

April 10th

Melissa & Lane Peasley

April 17th

Stephanie Mote & Sierra Cain

April 24th

Miken Harnish & Khrysie Snyder

May 1st

Lu Lay & Jae Reynolds

May 8th

Amber Grant & Pierce Peasley

May 15th

Nancy & Kirby Cagle

May 22nd

Lauri Palmer & Hannah Battershell

May 29th

Melissa & Lane Peasley

June 5th

Stephanie Mote & Sierra Cain

June 12th

Miken Harnish & Khyrsie Snyder

June 19th

Lu Lay & Jae Reynolds

June 26th

Amber Grant & Pierce Peasley

“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’” (Matthew 19:14)

Weekly Opportunities at MBC... At Memorial Baptist, we have many opportunities for Bible Study and fellowship for the entire family.

We invite you to join us as we learn and grow together! (Please see enclosed calendar for any schedule changes.)

Sunday Mornings: (9:45 a.m.)

Sunday School for All Ages: Nursery

Preschool Class

1st – 3rd Grade Class 4th – 6th Grade Class

Youth

Adult Class Options include: Senior Adult Class

Adult I Class

Adult II Class Family Room Quest Discussion Group

Morning Worship Service: (11:00 a.m.)

Nursery provided.

Sunday Evenings:

Children in Action – 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Youth Discipleship – 6:00 until 7:00 p.m.

Adult Bible Study – 6:00 p.m.

(Country Club Living worship 4th Sundays at 3pm) (Business Meetings second Sundays at 7:00 p.m.)

Mondays:

High School Lunch at MBC – 11:50 a.m. (every Monday school is in session)

Bible Study at Country Club Living – 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday Evenings: (7:00 p.m.) Ladies’ Bible Study (in recess until fall)

Wednesday Mornings: (9:00 a.m.) Ladies’ Bible Study (in recess until fall)

Wednesday Evenings: Choir Rehearsal – 5:30 p.m.

Youth Bible Study – 6:00 until 7:00 p.m.

Home Bible Study, 195 Hightower Rd. – 6:30 p.m. (in recess until fall)

On Announced Friday Evenings: Youth “Hang Time” – 6:00 until 9:00 p.m.

(Check enclosed calendar for dates…not held on nights of WHS home sports activities)

Memorial Baptist Church 202 19th Street Wheatland, Wyoming 82201