American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware Page 1

Notes & News, thoughts & ViewsFor ABCoPAD ChurChes From

regioNAl exeCutiVe PAstor reV. FrANk FrisChkorN

Volume 31, NumBer 7/8/9 July/Aug/sePt 2019

Greetings in the LORD!

Standard Father’s Day gifts are, in no particular order: ties, coffee mugs, key chains, t-shirts and the always-popular team-related barbeque apron. My daughters had something different in mind for me this year...they decided it was time for dad to have a Fitbit. Maybe it was because they wanted me to be able to better monitor my health. Maybe it was because Carolyn already had one and they thought I was feeling left out. Whatever the reason, my faithful Pulsar has now been relegated to the top of my dresser and the Fitbit accompanies me wherever I go.

I have to admit, this little gizmo tells a lot more than time. Just by looking at the screens on the face of the watch, I can see what my heart rate is, how many steps I’ve taken, how many steps I’ve climbed, how many calories I’ve burned, and if that’s not enough, it even lets me know how well I sleep each night!

I’ve only been wearing the watch for a few months now, but it has helped me be more conscious of my health, which makes my daughters smile.

☺

The question that comes to my mind, though, is this. Am I equally as concerned about my spiritual health as I am about my physical health? I look down at my watch and see the state of my physical heart as it beats in my chest—how sensitized am I to the state of my spiritual heart for God?

As we move into this fall, I pray that you will join me in a quest to get heart healthy—to be people that long for a heart that beats for the cause of the King, and reflects His Heart in all that we do.

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-25

Longing to be more like the Father,

Frank

American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware Page 2

Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Johnson Regional Pastor with Congregations 888-687-0883 jjohnson@abcopad.com

Meetings that don’t lead to ministry are a colossal waste of time!

There are a lot of church meetings this time of year. Committees meet to gather nominations. Boards meet to put together the annual faith-based budget. Teams meet to plan for the upcoming sacred season.

Meetings are not a game! Meetings matter! They are imperative! They are powerful! The problem with many meetings is how they are managed. I am all in favor of meetings, IF they are productive during, and produce something after. Meetings should serve three purposes – Inform,

Interact, Initiate. Jesus did these same three (Luke 10:1-3).

Some people see meetings as actual ministry. They are NOT! Meetings are the actual means to ministry.

Here are the elements of life changing meetings:1. Meetings should, MUST, begin

with prayer, and not a short perfunctory prayer at the beginning and an even shorter one at the end. I suggest “Tithing the meeting time.” Front loading a tithe of the time a meeting will be held, six minutes for every hour. This can either be done in total up front, 12 minutes for every two hours or can be done six minutes for each hour. There is no use us talking to each other until we have

been both intentional and intense about first talking to God. No one has sat around more tables longer, through all the years, in the life of our local churches than God.

2. Meetings should, MUST, have a fixed and predetermined length, which is defined at the get go, in conjunction with the prayer tithe. Meetings should not be seen as interrupting necessary work but as necessary work. People will likely have things to do before the meeting and efficient people after the meeting, so respect people’s time and they will give you the time. Meetings should start and stop on time, or even earlier.

3. Meetings should, MUST, have a prepared agenda that is shared ahead of time. It doesn’t have to be exhaustive and for sure, shouldn’t be exhausting. The agenda should connect members with the “needs to...” People will know what they are in for, and prepare them mentally and spiritually for what they will talk about. The agenda shows that the group isn’t meeting for mere meeting sake.

4. Meetings should, MUST, be used to align vision. That assumes a vision is in place. Do plans complement or clutter the vision of the congregation? This will ensure that there are not competing priorities and that we just aren’t doing for doing sake. We want to be sure our efforts are hitting the mark.

5. Meetings should, MUST, conclude with action (verb) statements that make a statement. These are clear “who is doing what in what specified time frame?”

Any organization can have a meeting. Church meetings of any kind should, MUST, be different.

They cannot just be focused on getting the fiscal business of the church done—paying the bills and maintaining the property. Take the time to include an element of discipleship and spiritual growth. Ministry impact in our lives and in the lives of others, the ultimate reason (the why) we should be meeting, should always be the ultimate goal (the what).

American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware Page 3

Rev. Mark Mahserjian-Smith Regional Pastor for Mission and Communication 570-435-2001 msmsmail@abcopad.com

Over this past Labor Day Weekend, the news was dominated by Hurricane Dorian. Initially

expected to strike Puerto Rico, Hurricane Dorian turned and then slammed into the Bahamas, causing catastrophic devastation and even loss of life. Leaving the Caribbean Islands, the forecast predicted the storm would move over Florida, causing that entire state to brace for impact, but then it was North Carolina (while still recovering from Hurricane Florence) that was in the crosshairs of Hurricane Dorian. The humongous and powerful, slow moving storm left a path of destruction in its wake that will require months and even years of recovery.

In the past, the primary way we as American Baptist helped those in need following a disaster, was to quickly release funds from our One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) resource. If the disaster was international, International Ministries would oversee the disbursement of relief money, and the American Baptist Home Mission Society would direct national OGHS resources. In the past, a message would be sent out requesting donations to OGHS to help in a specific area. While the primary donation window for OGHS takes place mostly between May through July, special offerings would be received for disasters happening any time they hit. Often a church family would take up a “special” offering to help with a specific disaster and send that offering in via their normal monthly mission giving, earmarking that donation for a specific OGHS need.

Over the past 5 years, this model of relief has changed. With new communication tools along with new ways to make contributions, International Ministries (IM) and the American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) can often speak directly to donors via email, website or social media. Along with communicating the need, donors are now encouraged to give directly to OGHS via an online contribution or a check sent to IM or ABHMS. Some might think donations will reach areas of need faster if contributions are sent directly to IM or ABHMS instead of through the monthly mission giving of a local church, but in fact donations made through your local church are processed within a month and are available for relief efforts very quickly.

Along with making an online gift through IM or ABHMS, ABCOPAD can receive your online disaster relief contribution, and in most cases, give your local church credit/recognition for the gift. ABCOPAD has been using online giving since 2006. It is quick and easy to make a donation through ABCOPAD’s online giving platform, where you can direct your gift exactly where you want it to go. It is hard to believe, but ABCOPAD is on pace to process about $100,000 in transactions, most of them for missions in 2019. A donor can simply go to our website, www.abcopad.org, click the donation tab and quickly make a contribution.

As always, donations for disaster relief should be over and above your regular contributions. All to often, donors shift their current giving to donate toward disaster relief which is disastrous for local churches or ministries like ABCOPAD. We see significant giving to help with disaster relief only to watch regular giving plummet, causing budget nightmares. When giving to disaster relief the donations should be “new money” and not the old adage “Robbing Peter to pay Paul.”

While many people want to make a financial contribution to help following a disaster, for a growing group in our Region there is a desire to actually go to a disaster area to work directly in the relief efforts. Already, following Hurricane Dorian, I have received phone calls and email messages asking when ABCOPAD will be sending a mission team to serve in the Bahamas. With this in mind, ABCOPAD has its own Disaster Relief Fund. Contributions can be made directly to ABCOPAD’s Disaster Relief Fund, knowing those contributions will assist mission teams from ABCOPAD serving as the hands and feet of Jesus. Not only can an individual or church give to OGHS, but donations can be made to ABCOPAD that will help brothers and sisters in this Region actually go and serve. In 2019 alone, eight teams have gone to North Carolina, Puerto Rico and New Jersey to do Hurricane Disaster Relief. When you give to the ABCOPAD Disaster Relief Fund you make it possible for teams from our own Region to serve. Our Region is filled with generous and caring individuals and churches who have always responded to help those in need following a disaster.

As you can see, there are many ways to give and to help. If you have questions or need additional explanations, please know I am happy to help. Thank you for being such a great partner in ministry and for all you do to support mission.

God Bless.

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American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware Page 5

News From our Associations

AbingtonCongrats to Pastor Gary Joe Eaches and his wife Jenn. Newlyweds, they had a “Sharing of Vows” celebration at United, Scranton. Pastor Gary and Jenn were married earlier this spring and wanted to share their joy with family, friends and the church family with this special worship service and reception.

Also at United, Scranton, a very successful VBS program (the first time United, Scranton held a VBS in many, many years). Kids from the surrounding community attended the event and had a great time. Along with VBS, Student Ministry gatherings (including a praise band from Gettysburg and a Christian comedian) were held in the evenings, making each day full and faith focused.

BeaverMany friends gathered at the Celebration of Life service for Rev. Cindy Swogger at FBC, Sharon. It was a moving tribute to a caring and compassionate leader who was loved by so many. Pastors John and Josh Trojak led the service with testimonies being given by colleagues, family and friends about the countless ways that Cindy lifted up the importance of family, her love for children, but most importantly her love for her Savior in all she did. The sanctuary that was full and overflowing attests to the

impact this dear servant of God had on all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

BradfordAt East Smithfield there are many visible reminders that they are not alone. Throughout the church, flags from nations around the world remind folk that the church is comprised of a huge crowd, too large for anyone to count, from every nation, tribe and people. And they all shout with a great roar: “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!” —Revelation 7:9-10

CentreMount Zion Missionary, Altoona is celebrating their 146th Anniversary with a Church Revival—Working Together for God’s Purpose—on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 12 and 13, featuring: Rev. Dr. Melvin Baber; Sunday Anniversary Service led by Pastor Keith Moore; followed by the afternoon service where Rev. Gary Jones will bring the Word. Anyone who needs revival from the Lord is welcome!

Central UnionFor two years, on Tuesday evenings, Encuentro Latino, Coatesville has met at the ASC in Thorndale to play soccer with a growing group of adolescent men and women, and then spends time sharing the Word of God and listening to the Gospel of

Jesus Christ. Between 60-80 participants come each week. It’s been a rewarding ministry watching God at work.

“Help for today … hope for tomorrow” Oct. 18-20, 2019, held at FBC, Kennett Square will explore the special role that faith, hope and love play in recovery from chemical dependency. Whether you are struggling with substance use yourself or walking alongside someone who does, one thing holds true—there is always hope and help available. The cost is $10, and includes lunch and refreshments on Saturday. Conference facilitator will be Rev. Donald Coombs, Jr., EdD, an experienced educator and counselor specializing in addictions and associated disorders. Rev. Coombs will share what he has learned through education and experience working with those struggling with substance use disorder. For more information, go online to ksqfbc.com/conference.

Kudos to Tom Clark, a member of Parkesburg, who received the 2019 Layman of the Year Award during the 2019 ABMen’s Retreat at Shippensburg University.

Vision Fellowship, Malvern (aka FBC, Malvern) placed the spotlight on Pastor Bob and Sharon Stradling with a reception on July 14, to honor them on their 35th wedding anniversary! Congratulations!

Sue Wilson RadelPastor, Forest Baptist ChurchRegional Ministry Associate for Women in Ministry, ABCOPADsradel@abcopad.com

It is hard to believe we have said goodbye to summer, and are saying hello to falling leaves,

cooler temperatures and all things pumpkin! In the midst of delighting in Autumn, I invite you to join me as we “Retreat to the Mountains” for a time of fellowship in a beautiful mountain lodge! We will gather at Camp Krislund, a Christian conference center nestled in the mountains of central Pennsylvania. There, we will enjoy devotions, times of prayer and rest, and some delicious home cooking! I hope you will join us. As always, if you have any questions or would like assistance, please call me at 814-577-9022.

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Upper Merion celebrated the installation of their new pastor, the Rev. Samuel Geiger. Pastor Brad Lacey from FBC, Conshohocken brought the charge to the pastor and Rev. Frank Frischkorn had the pleasure of bringing the charge to the congregation. Pastor Bob Coats, a mentor for Sam for a number of years, led in the prayer of installation.

French CreekWho’s sleeping? FBC, Franklin, recently held a youth work day sleepover, and at 1:30 a.m.—dodgeball erupted!

FBC, Greenville is very involved in their local community. Pastor Jeff Landfried reports on the recent Home Town Mission event that took place this summer. The congregation showed up in force to do mission projects throughout the Greenville community, including serving individual homeowners with projects at the houses.

HarrisburgWest Shore, Camp Hill put on a musical drama camp at their church this summer, with two performances of The Wizard of Oz. The week included games and crafts, as well as important life lessons (Pastor Greg talked with campers about how we, like Dorothy, are always longing for something or someplace else.) There were lots of rehearsals and, of course, a great show. Amazing volunteers worked all week (and many weeks prior) to make musical theatre camp a success. Sixty kids heard, saw, and experienced the Gospel through this creative ministry.

Oil CreekCenterville Community celebrated its 150th Anniversary. Focused on the theme, “Rooted in faith,” they used the symbol of a tree with exactly 150 lights on it to represent their 150 years, and 15 smaller candles surrounding it to signify the decades. For the last 15 Sundays they have rehearsed the history of each decade of their existence during worship. They also had a “thumbprint tree” where they asked each of the participants in the weekend to share their name and thumbprint to symbolize leaves on the tree.

Pittsburgh BaptistFBC, Monroeville is approaching its third anniversary of their diaper ministry, where they distribute diapers to needy families in their community. When first started in

Nov. of 2016, they served seven families (11 children) with 550 diapers. Last month, they served 97 families (192 children) with over 8,700 diapers. Diaper distribution takes place on the third Saturday of every month. It has been a rewarding way to serve Christ! However, their ability to meet the diaper need is becoming increasingly difficult. Government assistance programs like WIC and SNAP do not allow for the purchase of diapers, and parents are hard-pressed to keep their children in dry diapers. Most daycare centers will not accept children without a supply of disposable diapers for the child.

They are asking you to pray for this vital ministry, and if you could possibly help them with a diaper collection in your own church, please contact Randy Gray at 412-901-8726 or Pastor Tom Pesci at 724-525-2007 with any questions. On behalf of the babies who benefit, thank you!

Ten MileThe Jefferson congregation is pleased to announce that Brendan Byham has been voted in as the new pastor. An ABCOPAD welcome to Brendan and his wife Rhetta!

TiogaMiddlebury bade farewell to Pastor Stan and Sue Gill as they departed for Florida. The church family expressed deep gratitude for their leadership, pastoral care and Christian love. There was both joy in celebrating all the church has accomplished through the partnership of pastor and congregation, but also sadness knowing this stage of the church’s ministry is coming to a conclusion. The congregation now begins its search for their next pastor.

Welsh WyomingSeven people made public professions of faith along with sharing their favorite Bible verse at Immanuel, Edwardsville. Rev. Jim Quinn had the privilege and joy of baptizing these seven people all dedicating their lives to Jesus. It was simply awesome seeing so many people, young and old professing their faith in Jesus and becoming new partners in ministry. Individuals shared their favorite Bible verse, were immersed in baptism, and emerged from the water as disciples of Christ. A wonderful morning in Edwardsville.

Other Items of InterestDon’t forget to check out our website often at www.abcopad.org!

Regional Ministry Associates for Student MinistryChris Hamilton: chamilton@abcopad.comMandi Pascarella: mpascarella@abcopad.comJosh Trojak: jtrojak@abcopad.com

FB Group: www.facebook.com/abcopadym/

Fall Student Ministry GatheringsSept. 24 • 6:30 p.m. • Leading Students and Ourselves Through ChangeOct. 29 • 6:30 p.m.Nov. 26 • 6:30 p.m.

A new school year is here and once again we are calling all those who care about our younger generations, to gather online to support each other in our desire to impact youth for Christ. Our discussion for September will be focused on leading students and ourselves through change. We all go through change and so do our students. How do we lead our students through the ups and downs of life and take care of ourselves in the process? We will look at this questions and others at the next gathering. So come and bring your questions and be a part of the conversation. Keep an eye on our Facebook group and ABCOPAD emails for connecting info. We would love your questions ahead of time, so email us with your best ones! Looking forward to meeting together again!

Multi-church Lock InJoin us at FBC, Lansdale, for a multi-church lock-in Friday and Saturday, Oct. 11 and 12. The cost is $30 per person and the registration deadline is Sunday, Sept. 29.

Chris Hamilton, Assistant Pastor for Youth Ministries, First Baptist Church 700 N. Broad St. • Lansdale, PA 19446 Office: 215-855-3457 • Cell: 570-404-1600

American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware Page 7

OCTOBER 2019 DEADLINE:

Items to be included in the Oct. issue of Notes & News need to arrive by 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 3.

Please send all material to Denise Veselicky. Mail: ABCOPAD • 159 N. Bellefield Ave. • Pittsburgh, PA 15213-2609 Email: dveselicky@abcopad.com • Phone: 888-687-0883 • Fax: 412-687-3941

Thank you! Donna L. Schneff, designer • deeschneff@gmail.com

Disaster Relief ABC/NJ held a mission trip to continue Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief in the Manasquan area. ABCOPAD was also well represented, with team members from Hatboro, Montandon and Hughesville. The team partnered with others from New York and New Jersey to help those still struggling with recovery long after the storm.

Leadership Learning Community (LLC)Each year the LLC— led by Rev. Robert Rice (ABCOPAD Regional Ministry Associate for LLCs and lead pastor at Muncy Baptist Church)—takes in a baseball game at a different stadium. This year it was off to Cleveland to enjoy watching the Cleveland Indians take on the Texas Rangers. The team left Muncy around 7 a.m. to drive to Cleveland and enjoy a full day at Progress Field. So far the LLC has taken in games in Baltimore, Washington DC, New York (Mets), Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Boston and now Cleveland. While these trips have been great fun, the road trips have provided wonderful opportunities to talk about ministry, family life and personal life, and to simply bond together as partners in ministry.

The Artistry of the Almighty

2018 2019United Mission Basics $38,755 $24,623Love Gift $1,489 $1,183Partners in Ministry $17,884 $18,914

Annual Offerings AFC $1,630 $553 WMO $2,165 $2,980 RMMO $847 $235 OGHS $13,006 $14,444

The cumulative comparison figures United Mission Basics is behind through Aug. 2019 by ($13,281) The decrease in United Missions (includes UMB and Love Gift) amounts to ($11,170) less in actual dollars, that ABCOPAD received through Aug. AFC is ahead by $3,254. This increase amounts to $954 more in actual dollars, that ABCOPAD received through Aug. Partners in Ministry is behind ($19,283) through Aug.