News

Visions for September and October 2011

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 11:00:19 -0400

Pastor’s Notes for Sept/Oct 2011

Sunday, September 25 – A business meeting will be held following worship. This is mandated by our Constitution for regular updates and any matters needing to be tended. Please plan to be present. A light lunch will be served to keep body & soul together.

Sunday, October 2 – World Communion Sunday. We launch a month long emphasis on mission and will be using the theme of the World Mission Offering: “Live the Word – Proclaim the Word – Be Transformed.”

Sunday, October 9 – There are two special opportunities. The first is the CROP Walk. Walkers and sponsors are both needed. The second is the Cluster’s Annual Banquet in the evening. More information is available in later pages.

Sunday, October 16 – Reid Trulson, Executive Director of International Ministries will speak at FBC – and a potluck luncheon will follow for Q & A. Do plan to be here!

Other notes:
• Are you “back to church” yet? I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love summer. I grieve its passing every year. It’s not easy to shift gears. However, life is real! Toward that end, I invite you to take seriously your relationship to our faith community. Make it a point to attend regularly. Let your fellow members count upon you to make this fellowship vital in worship, fellowship, mission and education. Approach your church responsibilities with at least the same commitment we expect of one another for work, school, and other group commitments.
• Many thanks to those of you who have been “catching up” with your financial contributions which lagged over the summer and especially with the cancellation of services during Hurricane Irene. We’ve already made up a portion of the budget shortfall reported as of September 1 (a bit more than $5,470 as seen on the next page.) We’ll update our status at the business meeting on September 25.
• Several of you have asked whether we’ll be doing theater outings again this year. Plans have not yet been put in place, but the answer is “yes”! Watch for these opportunities. A list is being developed and will be made available soon.
• Many thanks to the Trustees and to all those who have helped to tend the water issues in the sanctuary the past several months. We hope to the get the water damage resulting from the clogged drain of the air conditioner repaired soon with the assistance of our insurance. The tower also needs attention given the huge deluge which resulted from the heavy, heavy rains. Please be patient as we get all this tended.
• Welcome to Jane Gruen who has joined our staff as church custodian as of September 1, and many thanks to Moonlight Cleaning Service which has tended our building needs for these past several years until we made this transition

See you in church,
Fully Inclusive . . . Community Friendly . . . Mission Based

Christian Education Nancy Unruh and Debra Brauner
Chairperson of the Board, Susan Heinz

Mission Statement for the Board of Christian Education:
Our mission is to support one another in our journey to know God. (Revised February 12, 2011 by the Board of Christian Education)

Rally Day Sunday, September 11, 2011
A great time was had by all! Thank you to everyone who helped in anyway to make the day enjoyable! Keep Your Eyes Open For Some Fun Fall Activities To Be Announced

“Sunday’s Cool Classes” Began September 11!
Children’s classes will meet in the Nursery Room.
• Moms and Dads, you are invited to join your little one in the Nursery Room as infants through 4-year-olds engage the Bible stories through songs, stories, and play.
• Elementary students ages 5 through 10 follow the scriptures used in worship each Sunday through age-appropriate readings and  activities.
• Pastor Marsh will lead the youth in a small group discussion of Listen to the Children, Conversations with Immigrant Families. This class will begin on September 25 and will include youth from CCLU and Zion’s UCC as well as FBC. Please speak to the pastor for more information.

The Adult Bible Study meets at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning.
Don't miss the chance to join the lively and insightful discussion. Come engage the scripture through Journeys curriculum. Explore with the group the following topics:
Sept 18 Proverbs 10-14 Learning from the Contrasts
Sept 25 Proverbs 25 Being a Good Neighbor
Oct 2 Proverbs 28-29 The Practice of Justice
Oct 9 Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:20 Life Under the Sun
Oct 16 Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:14 Youth and Aging
Oct 23 Song of Solomon 4:8-5:1a The Ecstasy of Passionate Love
Oct 30 Matthew 5:1-12 God's Wonderful, Wonderful News
Nov 6 Matthew 5:17-26 Reconciliation
Nov 13 Matthew 5:43-48 Is Jesus Asking the Impossible?
Nov 20 Matthew 6:5-15 Jesus Teaches Us to Pray
Nov 27 Matthew 6:25-34 Steer Your Life toward God
Additional student books are available on the table in Echo Hall or in the adult classroom.
The Secret Place is available in Echo Hall for friends and members to take home for use in personal devotions. Please consider placing a contribution in the white box to help defray the cost of making this material available.

Redner’s Receipts!
We are looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Please place your receipts in the box on top of the mission steps in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education Youth fund.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team will meet September 27 at noon. John Shilling and Debra Brauner will share impressions of the June meeting in Shillington where they met members of other Prayer Shawl Ministry teams and the originators of this special ministry. Come see photos of the event and look through the newly published pattern books. Anyone desiring directions for knitting or crocheting shawls may contact Debra Brauner.

There is a place for disciples of all ages, infants through adults!

Associate Pastor’s Notes Rev. Mary Etta Mest
Bible reading Guide: The 4th Quarter Reading Guide, “Walk With God Through His Book in a Year,” is available in Echo Hall. Are you still reading Moses or have you moved to Daniel or even Jesus? If you haven’t reached Jonah, how about skipping there? Jonah was sorry that God saved a nation! This is the same Jonah who spent three days in the belly of the big fish. Definitely jump ahead! What does Jonah have to do with Jesus? The third day?

Habitat for Humanity Natalie Rogers
The re-store store on 433 Foundry Road in W. Norriton will be holding a Handi-man/woman Fall Festival, on Saturday, October 15, from 10:00am to 3:00 pm. There will be activities for the children, tool demonstrations and booths from various businesses. If you would like a booth (there is a fee) call Kim at 610-278-7720. Please see the flyer on the bulletin board.

Missions Terryl Marsh
World Mission Offering
Sunday, October 2nd is World Wide Communion Sunday and the kick off for the World Missions Offering. The WMO is the denominational offering the helps to support the American Baptist Churches’ International Missions program. Theme of the offering is “Live the Word – Proclaim the Word – Be Transformed,” and it will be received throughout the month of October.

As part of our celebration of mission, we are honored to have the Rev. Dr. Reid Trulson, Executive Director of ABC’s International Ministries coming to FBC on Sunday, October 16th. He will be preaching during our regular service. Also, he will join us for a pot-luck lunch to tell us about the work of International Ministries and how our offering dollars will be used. Plan to be at church to meet Dr. Trulson.
 Throughout the summer, FBC worked with Zion’s UCC to provide bag lunches for the homeless on Sundays at Zion’s. As was reported, because of Dept. of Health rules the lunches could contain prepackaged foods only. Though this limited the options for the bag contents the recipients expressed gratitude for the meal. About 20 bags were handed out each week. We thank everyone who helped supply, pack and distribute the lunches. A decision will be made in the next week on whether or not to continue the project though October.
 The CROP walk is October 9th. Please see Mary Etta Mest for sign-up information.
 We have received our annual White Cross request. The money portion will be going to support our mission work in India. There has been an American Baptist mission presence in North East India since 1836. A sign-up sheet for the items listed in the quota will be in Echo Hall.
 On September 8, another 97 pounds of food was donated to the Cluster pantry by FBC. Approximately another 40 pounds of cleaning products, diapers, and household supplies was given. In 2011 FBC has donated @745 pounds of food which puts us directly on track to meet our goal of giving 1200 pounds of food this year. The committee has 2 requests regarding this mission effort.

￢ First, the food and household items are weighed separately. If possible, could you please put your food and household donations in different bags to assist with the delivery and weigh-in process.
￢ Second, the Cluster Outreach Center receives donations on weekday mornings. If you have a couple of free hours one morning a month we could use help taking the food to the Cluster. It is not a difficult job, but it does require a car and the ability to lift and carry bags (sometimes heavy) several feet and over stairs. Please speak to Terry Marsh or Jane Gruen if you might be able help.

White Cross Kathy Purington
We have received our White Cross quota for 2011-2012. This request is divided into three parts – 1) items needed for a particular National Ministries’ agency, group home or the like 2) monetary support for an overseas organization/s supported by International Ministries and 3) White Cross Gifts of the Heart - Baby, Health and Schools Kits.

1) The National Ministry we have been asked to support this year is the Valley Christian Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Valley Christian Center provides many services for the people in their community. These services include; tutoring and training programs, bible studies, summer camp, recreational activities, assistance to the homeless and seniors, providing holiday meals as well providing lunches/snacks for those attending their many programs.

We have been asked to provide some of the supplies that keep these programs going. These supplies include - toys, clothing, toiletries, craft and school supplies. The complete list and sign-up sheet can be found in Echo Hall. For prompt delivery, all items are needed by 10/23/11. These items can be placed on the Missions Steps in Echo Hall.

2) We have been asked to send $300.00 to support health care in India. American Baptist Churches support many Christ - centered health ministries in India. These White Cross funds will provide medical supplies and services to those in need of medical care. The requested $300.00 has already been sent from the Mission Fund.

3) White Cross collects and distributes health, baby and school kits (called ‘Gifts of the Heart.’) These kits help with ongoing developmental programs or when natural disaster strike communities around the world. Items needed for the kits are listed below.
Baby Kits – cloth diapers, t-shirts, washcloths, gown/sleepers, diaper pins, sweaters/sweatshirts and receiving blankets
Health Kits – hand towel, washcloth, comb, nail clippers, bath size soap, toothbrush and band-aids
School Kits – blunt scissors, spiral or tape-bound pads of 70 sheets - 8 1/2 x 11 inch rule paper, 12 inch ruler, pencil sharper, pencils, full size eraser and crayons (24 count).

Donations for these “ Gifts of the Heart” can also be placed on the Missions Steps in Echo Hall thought September and October. Monetary donations can be placed in the offering plates and marked for “White Cross”. Once materials are collected, we will need help to assemble these kits. Stay tuned to this newsletter for that date.

Thanks to all for your continued support of the White Cross Ministries.

Cluster Notes
The Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities 2nd Annual Banquet on Sunday, Oct. 9. Please join us for an entertainment-filled evening at the Sunnybrook Ballroom honoring the achievements that the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities has accomplished over the past year and to support their annual fundraising appeal. The program will feature the children's choir, “Voices of Hope” and an adult choir, formed from area churches, directed by Teri Hoffman and accompanied by Dr. Myra Forrest. Tickets are $25.00 and include dinner and entertainment. For tickets see Polly Fine or Ruth Chonka. Our goal this year is 4 tables.
 Volunteering at the Cluster: Please call Vicki Bumstead (610-970-5995) to offer to volunteer and learn when you may be trained. Client appointments are made by calling the same number.

Donations for the Cluster: Please continue to bring donations of food and diapers to First Baptist on the “Mission Steps.” Size 3 and larger diapers, hygiene items, toiletries & laundry detergent are especially needed. Plastic and paper bags are also needed.
Golf Tournament: The Cluster continues to search for a Golf Tournament Chairperson. The date is May 10, 2012. If you fit this job, please call George Bell at 610-327-0206.

The Crop Walk is scheduled for October 9. Think about walking or support for walkers. 25% of the donation goes to the Cluster. Walker envelopes are available from the office or see Doris.

Where to Turn for Help: The TriCounty Community Network (TCN) sponsors First Call - a place to start when you need help. Call 610-705-3301 if you need health and social services - housing assistance, financial help or support as a single parent. A trained person will assit you to find the best local organization to assist you. (Www.TCNetwork.info, www.busyteens.org and www.dvresources.org)

Trustees Mike Heinz
The plaster damage caused by the AC in the sanctuary is still under review by the insurance company; we expect the damage to be covered but the hurricane seems to have delayed processing of claims. The more recent damage, caused by the hurricane, is unlikely to be covered because the main reason for the damage is that the church tower is simply badly designed. Additional damage was caused by clogged gutters (clogged because we can't reach them without a 30' ladder and someone willing to do the work). The issue is currently under review. Other problems we are tracking are:

1. The stonework on the roof and tower needs more repointing work - the keystone on one side of the tower is sliding out of place.

2. The sump pump beneath the basement of new fellowship hall has failed, contributing to the flooding of the hall during Irene. We are going to snake out the drain pipe to see if it is still usable or if we will need to find another solution.

3. A heating valve has failed, sending continuous heat to the adult sunday school room.

Diaconate Ruth Chonka
Our Board met on August 21 after taking a little time off during the month of July.

Ron Favinger met with us as he had expressed a desire to become a member of First Baptist Church. He has been attending our church regularly for the past year or more. Upon his profession of faith in Christ he was received into our fellowship on Sunday, September 11. God bless you, Ron.

Some of you may not know that Rev. Mary Etta Mest is regularly presenting a Sunday morning message on WPAZ (1370). It is a broadcast from 9:45 to 10:00 am and is called “Scripture Coming Alive” by Rev. Mary Etta, Associate Pastor of FBC, Pottstown, PA. Our board voted to help support this ministry through the Trego Fund which stipulates that it is to be used to bring the gospel message to those who are unable to attend the services of the church.

A couple of weeks ago when our service was canceled due to the storm, I had the privilege of listening to the broadcast, which was very inspirational. We hope our shut-ins may be blessed by tuning to this program whenever possible.

On September 4th we had a wonderful gathering of God’s people from about 6 churches in the grove at Shenkel UCC. The speakers were inspiring, and the choirs uplifting, with a time of good fellowship and refreshments afterward.

Elderberries Luncheon June Matthews
It’s that time again for our Elderberries to meet and reunion after a long hot summer. Mark your calendar for tomorrow, September 19th and gather at 12 noon at the VIP Diner on High Street for some chuckles. It will be a special happy time of “catch-up.” We look forward to seeing you.

Gnosis Fellowship
Gnosis Fellowship is having a rummage sale on October 25th. We welcome all clothing and articles!

Visions for March and April 2011

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:50:53 -0400

Pastor’s Notes

Yes, we’re in the midst of Lent already! The Sunday this will be published is the second Sunday of Lent, and I urge you to take the opportunity to participate in this special season.

Every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. and every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. you’re invited to a special Lenten Study/Reflection Session. It’s based on a book written by Sarah Parsons called A Clearing Season. You’re invited to participate whether you’ve attended so far or not.

After that, it will be Holy Week! Palm Sunday is on April 17. Our regular Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) service will be on April 21. This is our annual observance of the Last Supper, and it will take place in Echo Hall. Then on Good Friday there are two opportunities. One is the annual Prayer Walk around the community of Pottstown. It begins at 10:30 on the lawn between Zion’s UCC and Emmanuel Lutheran Church. At 12:00 p.m. there will be a traditional observance of the Seven Last Words of Jesus at Bethel AME Church on Beech Street.

The Easter Egg Hunt for our children is scheduled on Saturday, April 23, at 10 am. There is more information in the Christian Education report later in this newsletter.

On Easter morning we’ll have our annual potluck Easter breakfast, followed by the Easter service at 10:45 a.m.

Meanwhile, if you’d like to place a lily in our worship service in memory or in honor of someone, those orders must be placed by April 17. On Easter we will have our annual Easter breakfast as well as special service at the regular time of 10:45 a.m.

An additional note:

The Staff Relations Committee is distributing a questionnaire for the evaluation of the pastoral ministry staff. The initial distribution is in your mailboxes in Echo Hall this Sunday, March 20. The envelopes not picked up there will be mailed after March 27. We want to get feed back from active members and participating nonmembers as to how this ministry format is working. Once we get the feedback by April 10, the results will be collated and made ready for an upcoming congregational meeting to be discussed, making sure we’re on the same page together.

See you in church!

Opportunities For Service, Education and Fellowship
• ￢ Community Meal Volunteers for FBC at Christ Church (First Monday of each month, with tasks from 10 am through 1 pm). See John Forrest for more info.
• ￢ Transitions Support Group, every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:30 pm. This is a support group for those who are going through transition relative to bereavement, job loss, divorce, or any other such life change.
• ￢ Shepherds Meeting, second Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. See Mary Etta Mest for more info.
• ￢ Bible Study, second Tuesdays at 2:30 in the Blue Bird Room, led by Mary Etta Mest.
• ￢ Communion at Manatawny Manor (Second Thursday of each month at 2:00 pm). You are invited to assist.
• ￢ Prayer Shawl Group (Fourth Tuesday at noon. Bring a bag lunch.) Talk to Debra Brauner for more info.
• ￢ Love in Action Tour by Habitat for Humanity, hosted by FBC (Usually Second Saturday at 9:30 am). An introduction to the work of Habitat in Pottstown and all are welcome. (None this March or April however.)
• ￢ Narcotics Anonymous (Every Saturday at noon and 6:00 pm, and every Monday at 7:00 pm)
• ￢ Choir Rehearsal (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)
• ￢ Work Day at the Church (Every second Saturday of the month. No matter your age or skill level, there is something to be done. See Michael Heinz for more info.)
• ￢ Adult Study Class (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)

Christian Education
“Our mission is to empower people of all ages to know God and one another.” (Developed and adopted by the Board of Christian Education)

The Adult Bible Study meets at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning. Come engage the scripture through Journeys curriculum. Explore with the group January’s theme - ‘A Future for God’s People” through the eyes of the prophet Isaiah and February’s theme – “Jesus, The Promised Servant-Leader” through the words of the writer of the Gospel of Mark.

March 20 1 Timothy 4:6-16 Prepare for Leadership
March 27 1 Timothy 5:1-8, 17-22 Worship Inspires Service
April 3 2 Timothy 2:8-15 Remembering Jesus Christ
April 10 Jude 17-25 Praise Builds Us Up
April 17 Mark 11:1-11 Hosanna!
April 24 Matthew 28:1-17 Christ is Risen!

Children’s classes will meet in the Nursery Room.
• Moms and Dads, you are invited to join your little one in the Nursery Room as infants through 4-year-olds engage the Bible stories through songs, stories, and play.
• Elementary students ages 5 through 10 follow the scriptures used in worship each Sunday through age-appropriate readings and activities.
• New! Starting January 16th for Middle and High School Students -World religions discussion held in the Library.

There is a place for disciples of all ages, infants through adults! Join us on this faith journey.

The Spiritual Direction Group will no longer be meeting on a monthly basis, but there will be other opportunities for retreat and spiritual discernment. Please check Visions and the Sunday bulletins for new offerings.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team will meet on March 22 at noon. Please bring a lunch! To date, 31 prayer shawls have been blessed by the congregation and distributed to members and friends for a variety of reasons: illness, moving, experiencing difficult circumstances, or celebrations of births or milestone birthdays. All are welcome to attend the gathering and participate in this meaningful ministry whether you are experienced or are interested in learning how to knit or crochet.

The Secret Place is available in Echo Hall for friends and members to take home for use in personal devotions. Please consider placing a contribution in the white box to help defray the cost of making this material available.

Easter Egg Hunt – Saturday, April 23 – 10:00 a.m. Bring your friends and family and join us for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt! Come hear a story, make a craft and join the fun searching for eggs and other goodies! Enjoy some light refreshments after the activities. You won’t want to miss the fun! Donations of pretzels, cookies and juice are needed for the Easter Egg Hunt. If you are able to donate any of these items, please speak to Sue Heinz or Nancy Unruh or label them “For Easter Egg Hunt” and place them in the kitchen before April 23rd.

Redner’s Receipts! We are looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Please place your receipts in the box on top of the mission steps in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education fund.

Half-Price Sale!! Did you forget a gift for someone on your Christmas list? $5.00 will get you a beautiful calendar and back in your forgotten relative’s good graces! Calendars are still available for purchase. See Nancy Unruh or Sue Heinz to get the last of these beautiful calendars!

Member Support
Cluster News
The Cluster Capital Campagn continues to make progress! We have reached the $800,000 mark. The goal is $1,000,000. They say the last stretch is the hardest. Let’s watch and pray. The new location at 57 N. Franklin Street is expected to be ready in June 2011.

A second full-time person has been named at the Pottstown Cluster Outreach Center. The title is Programs Manager and Amy Rossman has been hired. They are now looking for a new case worker.

Feinstein Matching Funds
Once again in March and April the donations given for the Cluster will be matched by the Alan Shawn Feinstein fund. Mr. Feinstein gives $1,000,000 to be shared by non-profit organizations across the nation. The more we give during March and April the more of the million dollars we will receive. Food contributions are included in the calculations. Please make out any donations to First Baptist Church and place in the collection plate, specifying it is for the cluster, and it will be forwarded in time for the funds to be counted.

Walk with God through His Book
Do you like to read about romance? Do you like to read about history? Genealogy? Puzzling happenings? Miracles? The Holy Spirit weaving in and out? Conflict? Resolution? Comfort? Guidance? Sorrow? Joy? All of this and more can be found in the Bible! Grab a reading guide and your favorite Bible. If we fall behind the schedule, not to worry! Just keep reading. Eventually, we will finish just in time to start again. The April, May June reading guide will soon appear.

Habitat for Humanity
Love in Action Tour is held on the second Saturday of the month at 9:30 am. Come and find out about Habitat. All are welcome.

Elderberries Luncheon
The Elderberries meet at the VIP Diner on the third Monday of each month at 12 noon. Please plan to join them for lunch, fellowship and an exchange of stories. The Elderberries Fellowship is open to all seniors of FBC – and their friends!

Worship & Evangelism Board
The W/E Board is wanting to raise awareness of our church in public places, so that’s why they had a presence at the Pottstown Funfest program on Thursday, March 17. Other venues in town are being considered. A number of locations in our building are also being looked at for placement of literature racks and bulletin boards to make information about the church available to community groups that come and go from the building.

While Charles Golden is out of town for the next several months until this fall, Drew Kurtz will oversee the ushers. Sam Ziherambere has been designated as the Board’s liaison with the Mission Committee

Several “bring-a-friend” days are being planned for this summer – with June 12, July 10, and August 14 tentatively set. There is also a desire to plan another joint service with Bethel AME Church in the near future.

Diaconate Board
Members of First Baptist prepared and served the Community meal at Christ Episcopal Church on March 7th. Thank you to all who help with that project. We will miss Charles and Karen Golden as they will be leaving soon to go to their shore home, but appreciate their help when they are with us. We will need other volunteers to take their place.

At our Board meeting in February we discussed some of the duties and responsibilities as Deacons of the church. And will continue in the coming months to work on this goal to put into practice the thoughts and ideas for the betterment of our congregation.

We seek God’s guidance and direction in all we do, that it may be acceptable to Him.

The Board again voted to take part in the Feinstein Challenge by donating $1000.00 this month to the Cluster. All food donations are also counted toward this challenge. The latest word on the renovations at 57 N. Franklin Street is that work is progressing very well. Financial help is still needed, and while right now they have an adequate supply of food, donations of other grocery items such as all purpose cleaners, dish liquid, paper towels, toilet paper, bar soap, shampoo and tooth paste are needed.

Missions
America for Christ Offering
The America for Christ Offering is the second of the four American Baptist Churches Offerings which FBC consistently supports. This offering is a means of supporting the missions which take place in the USA and Puerto Rico. These mission outreach programs include: Children in Poverty, Chaplaincy Programs, Volunteer Ministries, Student Campus Ministries, Evangelism & New Church Planting and Intercultural Ministries like Refugee Resettlement Initiatives (e.g., Burmese), Immigration Concerns and Advocacy and Gender and Cultural Conferences for Church Leaders.
Our support for this offering allows us to show our compassion for those in need in our own country. Our giving goal is $500.01 and envelopes can be found in the pew racks. Thanks to those who have already given.

Tools of Hope and Blanket Offering - April 10, 2011
The Blankets + Offering will be collected Sunday, April 10th. This Church World Service Offering is used to provide blankets, tents and medical supplies to meet emergency needs. It also funds the long term demands of recovery and rehabilitation by providing care for traumatized children, rebuilding homes, schools, and food security by providing seeds, tools, fishing equipment and training. Envelopes for this offering will be distributed shortly. With our support, the Tools and Blanket Program will continue to Blanket the World with Love. Our goal is $500.25!! I wonder where my old quilt is ??

Cluster Updates - Food Pantry and Easter Baskets
While the Cluster’’s food pantry continues to accept food, of particular need this month are the following cleaning and personal hygiene products – laundry and dish washing detergents, all purposes cleaner, paper towels, toilet paper, bar soap, toothpaste and brushes, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner.

As noted last month, our goal is to give 20 Easter Baskets for area children. We already have the baskets and Easter grass, but are in need of items to fill them. Requested items are: wrapped candy, coloring books/crayons, sticker books, 2.5-3 oz chocolate rabbits, small stuffed animals, inexpensive toys such as jump-ropes, balls, pocket-size cars, yo-yos etc. We need all items by March 27th . Our goal is to assemble the baskets after church on Sunday, April 10th. If you can assist, please speak with myself or any member of the Mission Committee. We welcome your donations and help.

Homeless Shelter for March
The Homeless Shelter run by Ministries at Main Street and housed at Zion’s UCC this month has a need for socks for men and women, underwear for men and women, cases of bottled water, deodorant (solid and roll-on). If you can help with any of these items please bring them to the church office or call Zion’s UCC at 610-323-3637.

Habitat for Humanity(HFHMC)
Habitat for Humanity hosted a new Family Orientation in Norristown on 3/12/11. One of the main goals is to find a partner family for 408 Beech Street, Pottstown. It is possible that a second Orientation may be offered, in Pottstown, sometime in April or May.

Habitat will have a booth at the Housing Fair on Saturday, April 9 at Plymouth Whitemarsh School from 10 am to 3 pm. Workshops on various subjects including credit, electricity, mortgages and repairs are offered throughout the day. Door prizes, including an ipad will be chanced off.

Trustee Board
John Schilling has decided that he is unable to serve on the trustees board. If you are interested in joining the board, please contact Michael Heinz.

In addition, we are looking for someone to join the investments committee to oversee the management of our invested funds. This is not a burdensome position, since we are using a professional stockbroker (Janey Montgomery Scott) to handle the day to day transactions. The committee provides overall monitoring of the state of the funds and the investment policy that JMS must follow.

The committee has reviewed the updated fees for using the sanctuary but there are still a few changes to be made. Please contact Michael Heinz for more information.

Visions for January and February 2011

Sun, 2 Jan 2011 12:16:29 -0500

Pastor’s Notes for January/February 2011

So what’s in the cards for this year? That’s often how we approach the new year – figuring that fate is what governs our lives. But consider the genius of the “serenity prayer” – “God, grant me the serenity to accept that which I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

However the cards are dealt – by God, by others, by chance, by evil, by whatever – how about we focus on what part WE have to play in this drama of life this year? That’s the spirit of discipleship to Jesus.

May that be the spirit of the Martin Luther King service we co-sponsor at the Hill School today at 3 p.m. (Sunday, January 16). May that be the spirit of our Stewardship Campaign this Epiphany season. May that be the spirit of our review of ministry opportunities as we “shake out” the realities we encounter for the year ahead. May that be the spirit of all we do together this year in terms of worship, education, fellowship and mission.

In that same spirit I thank you for taking our plans seriously this past year to avert financial crisis. If we had done nothing, we would have accumulated significant deficit upon deficit. Instead, you responded to the Deficit Reduction Campaign, surpassing the goal. You responded to the Seasonal offering appeals and met the goal. We erased the deficit with which we ended 2009 and began this year with a surplus. Now we have the opportunity to take a fresh look at putting a sustainable and creative plan together for 2011.

It wasn’t necessarily “in the cards” – but it was certainly in the faithfulness by which we played them.

See you in church!

Opportunities For Service, Education and Fellowship
• Community Meal Volunteers for FBC at Christ Church (First Monday of each month, with tasks from 10 am through 1 pm). See John Forrest for more info.
• Transitions Support Group, every other Tuesday at 6:30 pm. This is a support group for those who are going through transition relative to bereavement, job loss, divorce, or any other such life change.
• Shepherds Meeting, second Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. See Mary Etta Mest for more info.
• Bible Study, Tuesdays at 2:30 in the Blue Bird Room, led by Mary Etta Mest.
• Communion at Manatawny Manor (Second Thursday of each month at 2:00 pm). You are invited to assist.
• Prayer Shawl Group (Fourth Tuesday at noon. Bring a bag lunch.) Talk to Debra Brauner for more info.
• Love in Action Tour by Habitat for Humanity, hosted by FBC (Usually Second Saturday at 9:30 am). An introduction to the work of Habitat in Pottstown and all are welcome.
• Narcotics Anonymous (Every Saturday at noon and 6:00 pm, and every Monday at 7:00 pm)
• Choir Rehearsal (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)
• Work Day at the Church (Every second Saturday of the month. No matter your age or skill level, there is something to be done. See Dave Trexler for more info.)
• Adult Study Class (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)

Christian Education
“Our mission is to empower people of all ages to know God and one another.” (Developed and adopted by the Board of Christian Education)

The Adult Bible Study meets at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning. Come engage the scripture through Journeys curriculum. Explore with the group January’s theme - ‘A Future for God’s People” through the eyes of the prophet Isaiah and February’s theme – “Jesus, The Promised Servant-Leader” through the words of the writer of the Gospel of Mark.

KFC can take on a whole new meaning on Sunday Morning when it becomes Kids for Christ! Come join KFC at FBC!

Children’s classes will meet in the Nursery Room.
• Moms and Dads, you are invited to join your little one in the Nursery Room as infants through 4-year-olds engage the Bible stories through songs, stories, and play.
• Elementary students ages 5 through 10 follow the scriptures used in worship each Sunday through age-appropriate readings and activities.
• New! Starting January 16th for Middle and High School Students -World religions discussion held in the Library.

There is a place for disciples of all ages, infants through adults! Join us on this faith journey.

The Spiritual Direction Group will no longer be meeting on a monthly basis, but there will be other opportunities for retreat and spiritual discernment. Please check Visions and the Sunday bulletins for new offerings.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team will meet on January 25 at noon. Please bring a lunch! To date, 27 prayer shawls have been blessed by the congregation and distributed to members and friends for a variety of reasons: illness, moving, experiencing difficult circumstances, or celebrations of births or milestone birthdays. All are welcome to attend the gathering and participate in this meaningful ministry whether you are experienced or are interested in learning how to knit or crochet.

Did you learn your 3 R’s? (No, not readin’, ritin’, ‘rithmetic! We’re talking about Remit Redner’s Receipts!) We are looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Please place your receipts in the box on top of the mission steps in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education fund.

The “Birthday Party for Jesus” was held on December 4. It was a fun time for the children as well as the parents. As the children entered they were greeted by Sue Heinz and handed a “Happy Birthday Jesus” goodie bag with a “Happy Birthday Jesus” pencil. Each child brought a baby gift which they presented to Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve. The children sang songs under the direction of Deb Brauner. They went from station to station making craft items prepared by Nancy Unruh. They were able to take home 6 crafts to decorate their homes for Christmas. Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by Ruth and Dave Endy. We ended the event with a song and a “Happy Birthday Jesus” cake.

At our Christmas Eve Service the children presented their “White Gifts” to Baby Jesus. As they came to the front of the sanctuary with their gifts, Mary Heinz blessed the congregation with her beautiful voice and sang, "What Shall I Give to the King." Then Braylon Kuhn, Trevor and Tyler Unruh, Tyler Trexler and Brittany Endy honored the Lord with their sweet singing and made the service even more special.

The Twelfth Night Fellowship Event - Star of Wonder Program, January 5th at the Boyertown Junior High East Planetarium was well attended by FBC, Zion’s, and Trinity churches and members of the community. We packed the house with 81 people! Many thanks go to Mr. Peter Detterline, Planetarium Director, who presented an inspirational and informative program for our group. He brochure from that night has the Planets program dates wrong. They should be 1/28 & 1/31.

Half-Price Sale!! Did you forget a gift for someone on your Christmas list? $5.00 will get you a beautiful calendar and back in your forgotten relative’s good graces! Calendars are still available for purchase. See Nancy Unruh or Sue Heinz to get the last of these beautiful calendars!

Member Support
Bible Study: If you would like a little “Light” study please see Rev. Mest.
Join us for a Communion Service every 2nd Thursday at Manatawny Manor on the second floor.

Special “signature” fundraiser. The Cluster Fundraising Committee is looking for both contributors and solicitors (someone who gets a signature and $25 from ten people for this cause.) This money will be used for operating expenses at the Cluster. These signatures will appear in the Mercury on or near Valentine's Day on a double-page spread. If you would like to help, tell Rev. Mest. 
The permits for 57 N. Franklin Street have worked themselves through the permission path in the borough. It is time to begin the interior building.

“Walk With God Through His Book in a Year” is a long name for a Bible-reading guide. It can be an ambitious goal or the guide can be stretched by ignoring the suggested dates and reading at your leisurely pace. The first quarter guide is printed on yellow and is on the tables at the entrances to the Sanctuary.

Shepherd’s Meeting every second Tuesday at 1:30 pm in the office.

Habitat for Humanity
Love in Action Tour is held on the second Saturday of the month at 9:30 am. Come and find out about Habitat. All are welcome.

Elderberries Luncheon
The Elderberries meet at the VIP Diner on the third Monday of each month at 12 noon. Please plan to join them for lunch, fellowship and an exchange of stories. The Elderberries Fellowship is open to all seniors of FBC – and their friends!

Worship & Evangelism Board
We welcomed Drew Kurtz to the board at our meeting on Jan. 8. He was elected to fill the seat completed by Bruce Gould in December and who has moved across the state.

We continue to work on the process and needs for the announcement sign in front of the church. Ruth Endy has been changing the sign week by week.

Charles Golden is coordinating the ushers. We are still looking for volunteers for this position.

The worship planning committee for Lent will soon be meeting. Please see Marvin if you would like to on the committee.

We are attempting to develop various ideas for church growth. Anything we come up with will be shared with the Steering Committee so that all the boards can consolidate ideas. If you have any ideas please see any member of the board.

A statement was developed for use on the website of the YES coalition which provides a directory of churches who are intentionally inclusive in regard to sexual orientation. FBC is now listed on two websites along with FBC contact information.

Diaconate Board
We are happy to welcome Joyce Bagiraneza to our Board this month. She replaces Barbara Kurtz whose 2nd term expired at the end of December. We thank Barbara for her faithful service on the Board during her past two terms, and have missed her presence with us after she fell and had to have hip surgery.

In December our Board supplied goodies and other items to make up Gift Bags for our shut-ins and home-bound people. We want them to know they are in our thoughts and prayers.

Tom Corliss and Maricarmen Trexler have been attending the Pastor’s membership class, and they have met with the Diaconate Board in preparation for becoming members of FBC. We are pleased that they have decided to join our church and wish them God’s richest blessings.

Missions
RMMO Offering – Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering. During the month of January we will collect for the RMMO. This American Baptist Offering is a means of thanking and assisting over 3,000 retired American Baptist ministries and missionaries and their widowed spouses. That our gift makes a difference can be noted in the following thank you letters from RMMO recipients:
• “This week Elaine and I received your gift offering. It came just in time to cover a home improvement necessary to enhance access much needed in our advancing age! We are glad for your contribution of this annual American Baptist ministry.”
• “For years, we were on the giving side and now the role is reversed. But our Lord is so good to us. Thank you for caring and remembering our 50 years in the three American Baptist Churches.”
• “We want to thank all responsible for the ‘Thank-you’ gift. It came just as we had exceeded our yearly prescription allotment. Receiving the check lifted our spirits knowing God is so good - and so is our ABC family”

The RMMO provides a tangible means to thank those who have so faithfully served by helping others. Special RMMO envelopes can be found in the pew racks. Let’s send a clear message of Love and Gratitude to our ministers and missionaries for their years of service. Our 2011 goal is $400.00

Cluster and Cluster Food Challenge.
Thanks to all for achieving our 2010 goal of 1,000 lbs of food donated to the Cluster ! We know we will repeat and exceed this amount in 2011. While all food /house hold products are needed, the following are of particular need; paper towels, toilet paper, stews, jelly, canned vegetables and fruits, oatmeal and spaghetti. The Cluster is also in need of diapers, pull-ups, clothes for newborns to size 4t, blankets, small electric heaters and adult coats and caps. Please continue to place these items on the Mission Steps in Echo Hall.

Souper Bowl of Caring – Sunday February 6th
FBC will join many churches by participating in the Souper Bowl of Sharing by collecting canned soups and monetary donations to help alleviate hunger in our community.

The idea of Souper Sunday started in 1990 as a youth-led movement to help hungry and hurting people around the world and was inspired with this prayer : "Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup to eat."

Since then, an extraordinary $70 million has been raised for soup kitchens, food banks and other charities in communities across the country. In addition, hundreds of thousands of youth have experienced for themselves the joy and satisfaction of giving and serving, inspiring people of all ages to follow their generous example.

Canned soups and monetary donations will collected during the morning worship service on February 6th and will be given to the Cluster. All types of canned soups will be collected; low sodium and lite soups are of particular need.

Thanks to all to gave food items requested for the Cluster Christmas boxes. Thanks also to those who donated toys for the Cluster and for the Williams’ Christmas Meal and Toy Distribution held on Christmas Day at FBC.

A big THANK YOU for your support of the 2010 Missions Projects and Offerings.

Trustee Board
John Schilling has decided that he is unable to serve on the trustees board. If you are interested in joining the board, please contact Michael Heinz.

In addition, we are looking for someone to join the investments committee to oversee the management of our invested funds. This is not a burdensome position, since we are using a professional stockbroker (Janey Montgomery Scott) to handle the day to day transactions. The committee provides overall monitoring of the state of the funds and the investment policy that JMS must follow.

The committee has reviewed the updated fees for using the sanctuary but there are still a few changes to be made. Please contact Michael Heinz for more information.

Visions for November & December 2010

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 12:34:36 -0500

Pastor’s Notes for November & December 2010
Advent begins on Sunday, November 28! This marks a new season, a new year, and a new worship series. The worship theme for this year’s Advent season is:

“Looking for Something More?”

Has Advent and Christmas become the “same old same old” for you? Or, does it come and go, leaving you wondering what it was all about? If so, this series is for you. Come join your FBC Family in worship. These are the preaching themes we’ll follow:

Nov. 28 “Looking for Something More in Gabriel”
Dec. 5 “Looking for Something More in Mary & Joseph”
Dec. 12 “Looking for Something More in the Inn”
Dec. 19 “Looking for Something More in Jesus”
Dec. 26 “Looking for Something More in the Shepherds”
Jan. 2 “Looking for Something More in the Wise Men”

The “candle steps” tradition continues. Week after week you are invited to bring a candle of your own choosing with which to share your own joy or concern. Of course, candles will also be provided at the church as always. Every Sunday following the service the hot chocolate and cookies tradition will continue to be shared in Echo Hall.

On Christmas Eve we’ll gather for our candlelight service at 7:30 in the Sanctuary. You’re invited to bring “white gifts” again this year. White gifts are baby items wrapped in white tissue to present to the Christ Child. They will then be shared with our neighbors in Pottstown through the Cluster Outreach Center.

We also have the opportunity this season to gather a special offering for the support of the Lowerys doing mission work in the Congo on our behalf. Special envelopes will be in the pew racks.

On Sunday, December 5, we gather for a Christmas Luncheon after worship. The fare will be potluck, and there is a sign up list in Echo Hall so we can plan appropriately. The church will provide meat, beverages and table ware.

Prior to the Luncheon on Dec. 5, there will be a brief business meeting (our regular December business meeting) in order to act upon nominations for officers and a provisional budget for 2011. We expect the meeting to be brief so we can get on with the festivities.

On Sunday, December 19, we’ll have our annual “Soup ‘n Santa” event following worship. All are invited – but especially our little ones who will be looking for Santa.

There’s also talk of having a Twelfth Night Party on January 5 – the evening before Epiphany or “Kings’ Day.” Details have yet to be formulated, but it’s likely to be an informal time with games, songs, and the sharing of traditions surrounding this last night of the Christmas Season.

Meanwhile, many thanks to those who have contributed food and money for the Pottstown Cluster at Thanksgiving. The food is for the regular Food Pantry or the special annual Christmas Box Distribution. The money is for the Building Campaign of the Cluster for the refurbishing and general preparation of the new home of the Cluster at King and North Franklin – which was previously the American Legion building.

See you in church!

Opportunities For Service, Education and Fellowship

• Community Meal Volunteers for FBC at Christ Church (First Monday of each month, with tasks from 10 am through 1 pm). See John Forrest for more info.
• Transitions Support Group, every other Tuesday at 6:30 pm. This is a support group for those who are going through transition relative to bereavement, job loss, divorce, or any other such life change.
• Shepherds Meeting, second Tuesday of the month at 1:30 pm. See Mary Etta Mest for more info.
• Communion at Manatawny Manor (Second Thursday of each month at 2:00 pm). You are invited to assist.
• Prayer Shawl Group (Fourth Tuesday at noon. Bring a bag lunch.) Talk to Debra Brauner for more info.
• Love in Action Tour by Habitat for Humanity, hosted by FBC (Usually Second Saturday at 9:30 am). An introduction to the work of Habitat in Pottstown and all are welcome.
• Narcotics Anonymous (Every Saturday at noon and 6:00 pm, and every Monday at 7:00 pm)
• Choir Rehearsal (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)
• Work Day at the Church (Every second Saturday of the month. No matter your age or skill level, there is something to be done. See Dave Trexler for more info.)
• Adult Study Class (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)

Christian Education (Nancy Unruh and Debra Brauner)
Mission Statement for the Board of Christian Education: “Our mission is to empower people of all ages to know God and one another.” (Developed and adopted by the Board of Christian Education)

How do you describe God?
There’s a children’s project on www.kidssundayschool.com by LeeAnn and Craig that asks kids to make a dictionary that describes what they know about God from A to Z. Each page has a different letter, but each begins with the phrase “God is…”

The Adult Bible Study meets at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning and through the month of November they too are discovering ways to describe God from A to Z through reading the Psalms. Come engage the scripture through Journeys curriculum and discover with the group how: God is Awesome, God is Forever, God is Deliverer, and God is All-Knowing.

KFC can take on a whole new meaning on Sunday Morning when it becomes Kids for Christ! Come join KFC at FBC!
Children’s classes will meet in the Nursery Room. Moms and Dads, you are invited to join your little one in the Nursery Room as infants through 4-year-olds engage the Bible stories through songs, stories, and play.
Elementary students ages 5 through 10 follow the scriptures used in worship each Sunday through age-appropriate readings and activities.
Middle School Youth meet in the library each week and use a variety of tools and discussion starters to learn Bible truths and ways to apply those truths in their everyday lives.
High School and Post-High Students are invited to meet with the pastor for some discussion based on the DVD series, NOOMA and a new series titled 24/7.

There is a place for disciples of all ages, infants through adults!
Join us on this faith journey.

The Spiritual Direction Group will no longer be meeting on a monthly basis, but there are other opportunities for retreat and spiritual discernment. Advent Angels Declare God’s Glory is a mini-retreat experience being offered on December 10 & 11 at Drawing Nearer Studio, 1675 Yarnall Road in Pottstown. The Friday evening session offers a candle lit walk through the labyrinth and an opportunity to create a window mandala or luminary. Saturday offers a morning labyrinth walk and a chance to create greeting cards. For more information visit www.drawingnearer.com. If you are interested in attending one of the sessions, contact Debra Brauner or Nancy Unruh before December 1.

Advent Devotional Booklets will be available on the First Sunday in Advent, November 28, in Echo Hall on the table outside the sanctuary. These booklets may be taken home for use in your personal devotions.

Soup ‘N Santa is scheduled for Sunday, December 19th immediately after the worship service. Please bring a can of vegetables to add to the soup. Santa will visit and hear the wish lists of the kids of all ages. Pictures will also be taken.

Youth Grades 6-12
Winter Retreat with Youth of Zion's
January 14-16

Camp Kenbrook, Lebanon, will be the site of the 2011 Winter Retreat. Kenbrook has a great gym and game room, neat hiking trails and terrific food! Make plans to join us! Informational fliers, permission slips, and medical forms will be available on the table in Echo Hall on December 5.

Please register by placing a completed permission slip, medical form, and a $10.00 deposit in Debra Brauner's mailbox inside the church office by December 26. Call Debra Brauner at (610) 283-0292 for more information.

Busy Bags are in Echo Hall at the entrance to the sanctuary. These activity bags are for children to use during the worship service. They are cute and filled with all kinds of Christian goodies to keep our young parishioners busy and learning during worship

The Secret Place is available in Echo Hall for friends and members to take home for use in personal devotions. Please use the donation box if you are able to make a contribution to help defray the cost of this material.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team meets November 25 at noon. “May the one who receives this shawl be cradled in hope, kept in joy, graced with peace, and wrapped in love.” (Janet Bristow – 2000) These words accompany every prayer shawl that has been completed, blessed, and sent with love to each recipient. If you would like to participate in The Prayer Shawl Ministry, you are invited to attend the next meeting on November 25 at noon. Please bring a lunch! All are welcome whether you are experienced or are interested in learning how to knit or crochet.

Did you learn your 3 R’s? (No, not readin’, ritin’, ‘rithmetic! We’re talking about Remit Redner’s Receipts!) We are looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Please place your receipts in the box on top of the mission steps in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education fund.

One-Size-Fits-All Christmas Gifts! The Sunday school children are selling God’s Creation wall calendars for $10.00 each. Profits from the calendar sales will benefit both CCLU and the Sunday school. Look for our display table in Echo Hall!

Wow! Thank you to all who donated bags and bags of treats for the costumed kids who visited FBC’s table at the YMCA on Friday, October 29 for a safe night of trick-or-treating. We gave away 500 postcards with church information and oodles of treats to the community kids!

It’s a Party
“Happy Birthday Jesus”
Saturday, December 4, 2010
11:00am - 1:00 pm

Come share the wonderful story of Christ’s birth, make a Christmas craft, and stay for a light lunch! And of course, there’ll be a birthday cake for Jesus with plenty for all to share! If you are able, please bring a baby item (shampoo, diaper wipes, ointment, etc.) to honor the Christ child. That item will be given to a family in need.

Sponsored by the Board of Christian Education

Are your discipleship needs being met? Do you need a special group? Do you need a mentoring relationship? Are you ready for a “re-membership class”? Are you wanting a Bible study group that is not presently scheduled for the time you are available? Or, is there a fellowship group that would be meaningful for you? If so, please speak to Nancy, Debra or Marvin. We want to meet the needs that you have and will do what we can to make it possible.

Member Support (Rev. Mary Etta Mest)
Have you filled out your congregational profile page and turned it into the Diaconate yet? Please do so as soon as possible. You may place it in the offering or in the box located in Echo Hall.

The New Cluster Outreach Center. During the CROP Hunger Walk, we stopped to see the shell of the future Pottstown Cluster Outreach building. The vision for the finished interior is in the drawing stage, with bids submitted for the work to begin. Please pray that the permit travels through the necessary borough channels to become official so that work may begin.

On second Tuesdays, Shepherds are invited to gather for prayer for FBC members. If you are not a Shepherd you are still welcome to join us for prayer. December 14 at 1:30 p.m.is the next gathering.

On second Thursdays, you are welcome to join us for a Holy Communion Service at Manatawny Manor at 2:00 p.m. on the second floor. You may assist or you may just worship. The residents are very friendly and welcoming. December 16 at 2:00 p.m. is the next opportunity.

Houck & Gofus Funeral Home invites you and your family to participate in our 9th annual Holiday Memorial Service, Sunday December 5, 2010 at 4:00 pm (Registration begins at 3:15 pm). 955 N. Charlotte St, Pottstown. RSVP by December 4 at 610-323-8220.

Habitat for Humanity(HFHMC) Natalie Rogers
Love in Action Tour is held on the second Saturday of the month at 9:30 am. Come and find out about Habitat. All are welcome.Elderberries Luncheon
The Elderberries meet at the VIP Diner on the third Monday of each month at 12 noon. Please plan to join them for lunch, fellowship and an exchange of stories. The Elderberries Fellowship is open to all seniors of FBC – and their friends!

Diaconate Board Ruth Chonka
The Board met on October 31 after the service with 4 members present. We met and had an interview with Freda Rush who desired to become a member of FBC. Freda has been attending our services for several months, and we are happy to welcome her into our fellowship. She received the Hand of Fellowship on Sunday, Nov 7.

All Board members have been contacted to give their vote to make our annual donations from the Bailey Fund to the following organizations: Baptist Childrens Services, Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army and Baptist Peace Fellowship. The donation to the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities was made in April.

The Community meal was served at Christ Episcopal Church the first Monday of the month. Many thanks to all who helped. They were John & Myra Forrest, Charles & Karen Golden, John Shilling, Ken Murray, Ruth Molzen, Hannah Gruen and Ruth Chonka.

Missions (Kathy Purington)
Cluster
We are now collecting items needed by the Cluster to prepare their Holiday Food Boxes. We have committed to 24 of each of the following items - sweet potatoes ( 24-40 oz. can), brown sugar ( 1 pound box), jellied cranberry sauce ( 14 oz. can) and black olives ( 10 oz. can). To help ensure we collect the numbers needed, a sign-up sheet is placed in Echo Hall. These holiday items need to be at the church by 11/28/10 for timely delivery. In addition, we need five 10-12 lbs turkeys. These turkeys may be placed in the church’s refrigerator by 12/19/10 for timely delivery to the Cluster.

In addition to the holiday food items, the Cluster continues to accept all food donations. Of particular need are baby wipes, laundry detergent, toilet paper, dish detergent, pet food, canned vegetables, jelly and peanut butter.

All food donations can be placed in the Mission’s area in Echo Hall.
Thank you for your continued support of the Pottstown Cluster.

Thanks for World Missions Offering
Thanks to all for exceeding our $500.00 giving goal for the World Mission Offering. Over $900 was collected this year and 25% of our collected amount will be sent directly to missionaries Jill and Mike Lowery.

This American Baptist Church Offering is the primary fundraiser for International Ministries and supports over 1,800 short and long term missionaries in over 70 countries.

Toys, Toys & Toys
We will be collecting toys through Christmas. They will be distributed for use by the Cluster Toy Program and the Williams Christmas Dinner and Toy Give Away (reminder, the Williams event is held at FBC on Christmas Day). You may place your new and unwrapped toy in the Sanctuary near the baptistry. If you wish to give, but can not purchase a toy, a monetary gift can be placed in the offering plate marked “ Toys ” and a toy will be purchased for you to give.

Trustee Board (David Trexler)
The Board of Trustees welcomes John Schilling to the Board. John expressed an interest in serving on the Board. John will be completing the term of Jim McNaney. John’s experience will compliment the talents of those serving on the Board.

The Board of Trustees has determined it is necessary to raise the rates associated with the use of FBC facilities, resources and staff. While some details remain to be worked out, the new rates will be shared with the congregation at the December meeting and will take effect in January.

Couple Sells Mansion, Gives 1/2 to Charity

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 09:02:18 -0400

Couple Sells Mansion, Gives 1/2 to Charity

Visions for September & October 2010

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 13:40:17 -0400

Homecoming 2010
Mark the date now – Sunday, October 24! After worship we’ll join in a fellowship meal for a time of reunion and celebration. Plan to be here, and help pass the word to make this a time of reunion for those both far and near.

Pastor’s Notes for September & October 2010
The current worship theme is “A Time for Connecting: Come, Grow, Love.” Many thanks to the Mission Committee who has served as our worship planning committee for this season. The church covenant will be front and center throughout this time, and the preaching themes are:

• Sept. 19 “We Believe in Jesus Christ”
• Sept. 26 “We Consecrate Ourselves”
• Oct. 3 “We Will Live Together” (World Communion Sunday and beginning of World Mission Offering.)
• Oct. 10 “We Will Share” (CROP Walk and the Cluster’s Kick-off Banquet for the Capital Fund Campaign.)
• Oct. 17 “We Will Pray”
• Oct. 24 “We Will Show Up” (Homecoming Sunday! Dinner to follow worship.)
• Oct. 31 “We Pledge Ourselves”
• Nov. 7 “We Will Live”
• Nov. 14 “We Will Live to God’s Glory”
• Nov. 21 “Called into Service” (Our annual Sunday of thanksgiving and remembrance....)

An enlarged copy of our Church Covenant is being prepared as a visual focus for this series. As we progress, all church members will be invited to sign this framed document as a witness to their understanding and commitment. Have you taken note of the church covenant lately? Are you aware of what we agree to as members of First Baptist Church?

Looking ahead to December, we have a wonderful opportunity for fellowship. A block of tickets to “A Christmas Carol” has been set aside for members of Pottstown churches who would like to attend together. The date is Saturday, December 11, 8:00 pm. We’ll also have the use of a room for fellowship and refreshments from 7 till 7:45 and they'll hold our seats so we don't have to worry about getting there early to get good ones and be seated together. Tickets are $21/adults; $19/students and seniors (65+); and $13/kids (12 and under). This group rate will apply to tickets ordered and paid for by November 14. So, if you’d like to be part of this, it’s probably wise to think ahead. A sign up sheet will be in Echo Hall to get advance reservations. Last minute people will probably still be able to get tickets, but will need to buy them on their own at the regular rate directly from the box office. Many thanks to Bonnie Moore of Shenkel UCC who has coordinated this for the Pottstown Clergy.

Christian Education (Nancy Unruh and Debra Brauner)

Mission Statement for the Board of Christian Education:
“Our mission is to empower people of all ages to know God and one another.” (Developed and adopted by the board of Christian Education)

The Board of Christian Education wishes to express its gratitude to all who helped make the September 12th Pancake Breakfast a sweet success! What a great way to kick off a new year of fellowship and faith formation! Those helping were Deb Brauner, Ken Murray, Marian Valerio, Jane Gruen, Polly Fine, Rick Unruh, Doris Stutzman, Rita Paez, Lois Hayer, Ruth Endy, Marvin Marsh, Nancy Unruh & All the Board of Christian Education, Thanks to all who came out to enjoy!

Sunday School gets into full swing September 19, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Children’s classes will meet in the Nursery Room.
• Moms and Dads, you are invited to join your little one in the Nursery Room as infants through 4-year-olds engage the Bible stories through songs, stories, and play.
• Elementary students ages 5 through 10 will follow the scriptures used in worship each Sunday through age-appropriate readings and activities.
• Middle School Youth will meet in the library each week and use a variety of tools and discussion starters to learn Bible truths and ways to apply those truths in their everyday lives.
• High School and Post-High Students are invited to meet with the pastor for some discussion based on the DVD series, NOOMA and a new series titled 24/7.
• Adults engage scripture through Journeys curriculum. The theme for the fall quarter is The Inescapable God. The focus will be on the books, Exodus and Psalms.

There is a place for disciples of all ages, infants through adults! Join us on this faith journey.

Have you filled out your congregational profile page and turned it into the Diaconate yet? Please do so as soon as possible. You may place it in the offering or in the box located in Echo Hall.

Member Support (Mary Etta Mest)
CROPWalk - Sunday, October 10 - 1:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of First Presbyterian Church on Evans Street (behind Manor Care)
1. Walkers – ask Doris Stutzman for a sponsor form.
2. Walkers are to find sponsors, and if possible, receive their money before the walk. Make checks payable to First Baptist Church.
3. Walkers, bring your sponsor sheet and the money/checks, if possible, to the Fellowship Hall of First Presbyterian on the day of the Walk and give them to Mary Etta.
4. Walk the short or long route. This year the route includes the new Cluster Building at 57 N. Franklin St. as a rest stop/open house.
5. Thank you, walkers.
6. People wantingto contribute to the CROPWalk may be a sponsor for someone or may place a check (made payable to First Baptist Church and write CROPWalk in the memo line) or cash in an envelope and write CROPWalk on the outside and place it in the offering plate before or on October 10. Thank you very much for doing that!
7. Our Pottstown Cluster receives 25% of the total money contributed to the Pottstown CROPWalk. The other 75% is used world-wide, through Church World Service, to alleviate hunger and other urgent needs.
8. T-shirts, caps and Totes are available for sale. Please see Mary Etta, Sue Heinz or Doris Stutzman.

Shepherds Monthly meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Thanks for your attendance.  Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities Capital Campaign The goal of the Capital Campaign is gathering money for the renovations to the interior of 57 N. Franklin Street and for expanding current programs as well as starting new programs with the goal of preparing individuals to use all of their God-given talents to become confident, self-supporting contributors to society. 1. Capital Campaign Delegate Luncheon on Tuesday, September 14 around noon at Emmanuel Lutheran Church at Walnut and Hanover Streets
2. For the public, a Capital Campaign sacred rejoicing event on Saturday evening, October 9 at one of the Pottstown School buildings (more information soon)
3. Open House at 57 N. Franklin Street on Sunday afternoon during the CROPWalk; you are welcome to go to the Open House without being part of the CROPWalk.
4. For the public, a Capital Campaign Dinner at Sunnybrook on Sunday evening, October 10. Cost is $20.00 per person; emphasis will focus on the congregations which were instrumental in the start of the Cluster in Pottstown, especially honoring Father Wilford Penny, the past rector of Christ Episcopal Church on High Street.
5. You may contribute to the Capital Campaign without attending any of these events. Simply place your contribution in an envelope (checks made payable to First Baptist Church with a note on the memo line that this money is to be used for the Capital Campaign of the Cluster) and place it in the regular offering plate during a worship service.

Elderberries Luncheon
Calling all Elderberries! It is time to reunion for the Fall season. Mark September 20 on your calendar for a lunch date of fellowship, a few chuckles and catch-up with one another. We’ll meet at the VIP Diner on High and York Streets at 12 noon. Please plan to join us.

Habitat for Humanity (Natalie Rogers)
• A new family Orientation was held on 9/11/10 at 1-3 p.m. at the Sidney Pollack House, 450 High Street, Pottstown. Prospective partner families heard how the program works and heard from a homeowner on her experiences. A chance to see 408 Beech Street followed.
• The Woman's Guild is hosting a fundraiser on Sunday, 9/19/10 of a Bocci tournament in Conshohocken at 10 a.m. See the HFHMC website at www.habitatmontco.org or call (610) 278-7710 for details.
• On Saturday, 9/25/10, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., the ReStore will have it's Grand Opening. Games, prizes, activities for all age groups will be offered to celebrate this green way of recycling building materials and furniture!
• Boscov's Friends Helping Friends shopping passes are also available at $5.00 for store discounts on shopping on Tuesday, 10/5/10. However, if you simply want to support HFHMC, you can buy a ticket and Natalie will put your entry in for the drawing of a TV, diamond pendant and other prizes!
• HFHMC's Woman's Build is hosting a Beef & Beer on 10/9/10 and a Motorcycle & Classic Car Poker Run on 10/16/10.
• The Love In Action tour will be held at FBC on 10/9/10 at 9:30 a.m. New volunteers will have a chance to learn how HFHMC works and then tour the jobsite at 408 Beech Street. There will be a Habitat table at the Schuylkill River Festival that afternoon until 4:00 p.m.

Missions (Kathy Purington)

World Missions Offering
This year’s World Mission Offering theme is “Be Surprised by Walking in Different Shoes” which is in part inspired by Philippians 2:1-7. In this passage, we are called to follow Jesus’ example and to be mindful of the needs of others. Like Jesus, we are called to take on the very nature of a servant; to humble ourselves, to understand and care for others. To do this, we must enter into others reality, into their world - we must walk in their shoes !!

By walking in other’s shoes, our focus is not on our differences, but our similarities and on the realization that we are all God’s people. All are called by God to become aware of others and take on the Christ-like nature of a servant. It is in this way, we heed God’s call to put others first and transform the world.

Giving to the World Mission Offering is one way we can Respond to God’s Call to Serve and Transform. Please take this opportunity to “Walk in Different Shoes”. You may be surprised by how good and the enlightening the walk can be; for both body and soul.
Giving envelopes can be found in the pew racks. Our goal this year is $500.00.

On Going Support for the Lowery’s
As mentioned FBC will be providing on going support for Jill and Mike Lowery whose mission work is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There, Jill is involved in mission education, women's ministries and youth work. Mike is a professor and administrator at the Pastor's Institute in Kikongo. He teaches New Testament and prepares pastors for rural ministry in the Bandundu region of Congo.  
Our spring gift of almost $1,800 helped the Lowery’s return to the Congo this summer. Our on going support will help Jill and Mike remain in the Congo as they answer God’s call found in the Great Commission; “ Go, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the Age”. Giving envelopes for the Lowerys can be found in the pew racks.

Cluster
To date, FBC has collected 685 lbs - we are almost at our 750 lb goal. Let‘s reach that soon and aim to exceed our goal by 50% and give another 325 lbs of food. With the holidays approaching, exceeding our goal will really help those in need in our community. Items can be placed on the steps in Echo Hall for delivery to the Cluster.

White Cross
We have received our White Cross quota for 2009-2010. This request is divided into three parts – 1) items for a National Ministry, 2) monetary support for International Ministries and 3) White Cross Gifts of the Heart.

First, our National Ministry is the Baptist Children’s Services ( BCS). BCS provides emergency shelter and residential care to over 450 at-risk boys and girls per year. Displaced children are referred to BCS by Youth and Family Services agencies in our surrounding counties. Our gifts for the Baptist Children’s Services include clothing, towels and toiletries.

Second, we have been asked to send $250.00 to support health care in the Democratic Republic of Congo. American Baptists contribute to the health care in the Congo by supplying educational materials for nurses and doctors as well as providing hospital supplies. Our $250.00 gift has already been sent from the Mission Fund and will be used to provide health care for those in need in the Congo.

Third, White Cross collects and distributes health, baby and school kits. These kits help with ongoing developmental programs or when natural disaster strike communities around the world. Items needed for the kits are listed below.
• Baby Kits – cloth diapers, t-shirts, washcloths, gown/sleepers, diaper pins, sweaters/sweatshirt and receiving blankets
• Health Kits – hand towel, washcloth, comb, nail clippers, bath size soap, toothbrush and band-aids
• School Kits – blunt scissors, spiral or tape-bound pads of 70 sheets - 81/2 x 11inch rule paper, 12 inch ruler, pencil sharper, pencils, full size eraser and crayons ( 24 count )
While all items are being collected, of particular need are baby sleepers, baby sweaters or sweat shirts, bath size soap, round-tip children’s scissors, small pencil sharpeners, adult toothbrushes, nail clippers and spiral or tape-bound pads of 70 sheets - 8 1/2 x 11 inch rule paper. If you can provide any of these items, please place then on the Missions Steps in Echo Hall and mark for White Cross.

Diaconate (Ruth Chonka)
The Board met with Willibrord Bagiraneza, husband of Joyce Ziherambere Bagiraneza, for church membership and he was given the Right Hand of Fellowship on Sept.12. We are happy to welcome him to our congregation. God bless you, Will.
Our August board meeting was held on Tuesday, the 24th, so that Marvin and Mary Etta could attend. We were grateful for their presence and input on various subjects and discussions.
The Deficit Reduction campaign has gone very well and we are way over the goal of $10,000. That’s wonderful! Praise the Lord!
Mary Etta brought us up to date on the progress of the Cluster’s new building and the beginning of the Capital Campaign to raise funds for completion of the renovation.
We continue to try to make contact with names on our membership list to encourage their coming back to church, and to the special Homecoming Celebration on Sunday October 24. A dinner will follow the morning service, so we hope to have a good turnout for that day. Not only for that day, but every Sunday starting this fall!

Using the Stair Trak

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 07:45:37 -0400

New Photos

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:42:06 -0400

Check out the Photos page for pictures from the 2010 VBS!

Visions for June, July and August, 2010

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:46:37 -0400

Summer Schedule began Sunday, June 6
Worship will be at 10 a.m. from now until the Sunday after Labor Day. Regular Sunday School classes will be in recess during this whole time as well.

Pastor’s Notes for June, July and August 2010
• Please note the “Deficit Reduction Campaign” to begin in July. We ended last year with a $4,500 deficit, and we anticipate at least a deficit of $5,500 this year – even with boards being asked to freeze their spending as much as possible. We’re not the only ones experiencing the effect of this recession. Please help to overcome the shortfall. An average of about $150 per “giving unit” would meet the goal.
• An invitation from FBC has been extended to churches in Pottstown to put together another worship event in the park this year. (Remember the one we did about six years ago? It was a beautiful experience.) About six or seven have responded positively so far. As soon as something definite shapes up, we’ll pass the word.
• Summer worship outside has received a pretty positive response – especially for our own yard. (We’ve been doing an informal survey during worship over the past few weeks.) The W/E Board will determine soon just what days we’ll plan to worship this way.
• All summer long the W/E Board is providing a “lemonade stand” after worship to encourage fellowship following worship. Linger a while and get to know one another.
• More fellowship events like the excursion to “Ragtime” are in the works. Keep your eye out for the announcements.

Christian Education Nancy Unruh and Debra Brauner

Don’t miss

“Earth Rhythms – Livin’ In the Rhythm”
First Baptist Church Lawn
King St.
Thursday, June 17 – 7:00 p.m.

This special program features an array of African drums and rhythm instruments creating a global community of sound! Everyone has the opportunity to get involved in the performance! Please bring lawn chairs!

Please note these changes for the Summer months:
• Sunday school and Children’s Church will take a short recess over the summer! The last day Sunday school classes will meet and Children’s Church will be offered is May 30. Church Nursery will still be offered during the service. Please join us for worship over the summer and be refreshed and ready for a new year of Sunday school and Children’s Church again in the fall.
• The Spiritual Direction Group will not meet again until September. Please continue to read the devotions in “May I Have This Dance” over the summer months. If you would like to participate, please contact Debra Brauner to order a book.
• The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team will not meet again until September. Please keep knitting or crocheting over the summer. Newly finished prayer shawls may be brought to the office at any time. Prayer shawls are distributed whenever there is a need. If you would like directions for creating a prayer shawl, contact Debra Brauner at (610) 283-0292 or debrauner@comcast.net. Plan to meet with this active ministry team when we reconvene in the Fall.
• The Secret Place is available in Echo Hall for friends and members to take home for use in personal devotions. Please consider placing a contribution in the white box to help defray the cost of making this material available.

Redner’s Save-a-Tape Receipts
We’re looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Place them in the box on top of the mail slots in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education fund.

Spend a while on the Nile! VBS 2010
EGYPT –– Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace

This year we will partner with Zion’s UCC to offer Vacation Bible School to the children of both congregations and the community. VBS will be held here at FBC from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, June 21-25. Double the kids, double the excitement! Mark you calendars now and plan to join us as we experience Joseph’s incredible faith journey!

If you are interested in helping with music, crafts, snacks, or as a group leader, please speak to Nancy Unruh, Sue Heinz, or Debra Brauner. A VBS Staff Luncheon and Training will take place at FBC on Sunday, May 16 after the worship service. Come meet the folk from Zion's who will be partnering with FBC to offer VBS this year and learn about the VBS program.

When School is Out -- Camp is On!
Day Camp at Men-O-Lan
August 14-15
For children that have completed 1st -8th grades. Registration forms will be available July 4th! Remember the fun we had last year? Let's do it again! And invite a friend!

In-Town Mission Project
August 1-6, 2010
Representatives from FBC, Trinity UCC, St. Paul's UCC, and Zion's UCC have been meeting since January to plan another In-Town Mission Project. (Look for the article in the Pottstown Mercury about last year's work camp- it's on the bulletin board outside the office) The dates for the project this year are Sunday, August 1 -- Friday, August 6. Teens entering sixth through twelfth grades are invited to participate. There is no cost to participate in this week-long event. Last year, Joshua Norman and Debra Brauner participated. If you would like information about housing, food, work projects, and activities, please speak to Joshua or Debra. There will be an information night at Trinity UCC on June 6, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Youth and parents are welcome to attend. We are looking for work projects. If you can recommend a site, please contact Debra Brauner. Jobs should be suitable for teens to complete. We need additional adults to supervise and chaperone. Adults do not have to commit to the entire week. Whatever time you can give will be appreciated. We are also looking for members willing to serve dinner at their home to a small group of teens and adults (8-10) one evening during the week and to allow participants to shower there. If you are interested in participating or available to help in any way, please speak to Debra Brauner at (610) 283-0292.

Member Support Mary Etta Mest
“Senior Boxes" is a new program which is available at various food distribution centers including our Pottstown Cluster Outreach Program. Seniors who qualify financially may register at the Cluster Outreach Center, 137 Walnut Street, Pottstown, 610-970-5995, clusterpantry@verizon.net, or www.pottstowncluster.org . To register in person, the hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon every day. We have application forms in our First Baptist office. Please ask Doris Stutzman or Mary Etta Mest. The boxes are distributed monthly.The next Shepherd Meetings will be held Tuesday, August 10, at 1:30 and/or 7:00 pm. The plan is to pray for our sheep in the belief that praying in a group is even more powerful than praying individually. Time will be available to make suggestions for refining this ministry. Please feel free to tell your Shepherd of any personal, or not so personal, concerns you may have for which we can pray during our Shepherd meeting. You may ask for your name to be withheld. If you are not a Shepherd but are interested in becoming one in the future, speak to Marvin Marsh or Mary Etta Mest.

Cluster News: Do you like to make old things new? We have the perfect job for you. Wear Gloves, sturdy shoes and a mask. The new Cluster building at 57 N. Franklin Street is waiting for you. Interior walls are being removed and the debris needs to be hauled out to the trash bins. Call Lylly Smithson at 610-970-5995 to volunteer. Clusteroperations@verizon.net.

Thank you if you are an official prayer partner for the Cluster Prayer Ministry. If you would like to be one, tell Mary Etta Mest at 610-659-2775 or 610-754-7762 x5 (no charge from Pottstown)or use mestme@aol.com or leave a note in my First Baptist mailbox. We believe that each individual prayer makes a difference! Join a 40-member team. What a difference! Is Pottstown ready?  
Thank you for whatever you are doing for the people of Pottstown through the Cluster; from preparing and serving a meal one Monday a month to bringing diapers (sizes 4,5 & 6) or a jar of jelly or jam to go with the peanut butter, to praying. Your contribution counts and makes a difference.
 Elderberries Luncheon
An Elderberries Luncheon is scheduled every third Monday at the VIP Diner at 12 noon. Everyone is invited. Please sign up with June Matthews or Barbara Kurtz. This is open to all senior members and friends of the church. Come join in the fun!

Have you filled out your congregational profile page and turned it into the Diaconate yet? Please do so as soon as possible. You may place it in the offering or in the box located in Echo Hall.

Prayers for Solana Beach Choir
Remember Gayle Hall and the Solana Beach choir and their trip to Hungary, Ukraine, & Russia, this summer. Their first two events are in Budapest, Hungary on the 26th and 27th of June.

Habitat for Humanity Natalie Rogers
Work is underway by the volunteers at 408 Beech Street, Pottstown. When you drive by, look at the "ugly duckling" because in a few months, it will become a "beautiful swan"!! Love in Action Tours is a pre-requisite to volunteering at the jobsite. Tours begin at 9:30 a.m. with a short video and then we tour the jobsite. Interested participants are to pre-register at HFHMC (610) 278-7710. The next Love in Action Tour will be on August 14 at 9:30 am.

Missions Kathy Purington
White Cross - Gifts of the Heart
The White Cross “Gifts of the Heart” are the health, baby and school kits sent to help with ongoing developmental programs or when natural disaster strike communities around the world. In January, FBC send 90 of these kits to be distributed where needed. Due to the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile earlier this year, we extended our collection of the items needed for these kits.

Last week, 25 more health kits were assembled and sent to the distribution center in MD. These health kits include the following items – hand towel, washcloth, comb, nail clippers, bath size soap, toothbrush/paste and band-aids. Many thanks to those who gave items and money to enable us to send more of these kits.

RMMO - Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering
During the month of June, we are collecting for the RMMO. This offering provides a tangible means of thanking retired American Baptist ministers/missionaries for their years of ministry. Our 2010 goal is $351.00.

Special RMMO envelopes can be found in the pew racks. Let’s send a clear message of Love and Gratitude to our ministries and missionaries for their years of service.

Cluster
In early May, another 45 lbs of food was collected for the Cluster. This year, FBC has donated 275 lbs of food to the Cluster.

The Cluster is still in need of following items; tuna, peanut butter, plain oatmeal and low sodium soup as well as diapers and baby wipes. Please give what you can this summer to help those in need in our community !!

Safe Church Task Force Terryl Marsh
The Task Force has three sub-committees. One is addressing the issues of the physical plant, the second is working with the information regarding staff screening, hiring and training and the third is handling the identification, reporting and handling of incidents. In addition, Mike Heinz has agreed to consult to the Task Force regarding computer safety. Each of the sub-groups has drafted policies and related to their areas. Now we are working on combining the drafts into a coherent single document. Because of the detail needed particularly with the procedures regarding the different programs and populations using the building as part of the FBC and from the community it was decided to develop a comprehensive policy with separate guidelines. The work is continuing with the hope of having a document ready for review by the Steering Committee and counsel in June and over the summer.

Diaconate Ruth Chonka
Charles Washington will give Teri Hoffman a list of favorite songs from the member profiles. I’m sure many of our congregation will enjoy singing some of the old favorite hymns. As for the member profiles, we encourage anyone who has not returned theirs, to please do so as soon as possible.

Our church hosted the Cluster Delegate luncheon and meeting on Thursday, June 3rd. Many thanks to all our people who had a hand in the preparation of the Fellowship room and the bringing and serving of food. During the meeting we heard from the Director of the Cluster, Barbara Wilhelmy, of the progress being made at the new building, with the help of many volunteers. She asked that we let our congregations know that they are in need of volunteers to help with the demolition of the interior of the building. All interested volunteers can contCT Lylly Smithson at the outreach Center or at clusteroperations@verizon.net.

The community meal was served on Monday June 7.

Rev. Mary Etta Mest and a board member have recently visited several of our church members who are hospitalized, and also at Manatawny Manor.
Mary Etta led the communion service at Manatawny Manor on Thursday June 10. Anyone is welcome to help with these services on the second Thursday of the month.

Our board recently discussed the need to encourage more regular church attendance and new membership. We also need to come up with new ideas to supplement our finances. With more thought, prayer and discussion, hopefully, we will be able to set some goals to work toward.

Gnosis Fellowship
The Gnosis Fellowship recently voted to donate $1,000.00 from their Rummage sale profits to the building fund of the church. We thank them for their hard work.

Opportunities For Service, Education and Fellowship
• Community Meal Volunteers for FBC at Christ Church (First Monday of each month, with tasks from 10 am through 1 pm). See John Forrest for more info.
• Spiritual Direction Group (First Mondays every month at 7:00 – but on recess now till fall). Contact Nancy Unruh.
• Depression Support Group, Every other Tuesday at 6:30 pm
• Communion at Manatawny Manor (Every second Thursday of the month at 2:00 pm in the second floor activity room)
• Prayer Shawl Group (Fourth Tuesday at noon. Bring a bag lunch.) Talk to Debra Brauner for more info. Next meeting in September, but you can be introduced to the shawls on an individual basis before that.
• Love in Action Tour by Habitat for Humanity, hosted by FBC (Second Saturday at 9:30 am). This is an introduction to the work of Habitat in Pottstown and all are welcome.
• Narcotics Anonymous (Every Saturday at noon and 6:00 pm, and every Monday at 7:00 pm)

Visions for May 2010

Wed, 12 May 2010 19:07:35 -0400

Pastor’s Notes for May - June 2010

Sunday, May 23, is Pentecost – the third great
holiday of the church year. If it weren’t for Pentecost,
we’d not be bothering with either Christmas or Easter.
Pentecost is the day which Scripture celebrates as
the Birth of the Christian Church when the Spirit
descended upon the disciples who were gathered
for the Jewish observance of Pentecost.

I’ll say it again. I wish the merchants and the card companies would catch on and commercialize the day. That way perhaps the church would remember what an important day it is! All of which is to say: See you in Church on Sunday, May 23 – Pentecost! (Remember to wear RED.)

Summer Schedule begins Sunday, June 6

Worship will be at 10 a.m. from then until the Sunday after Labor Day. Regular Sunday School classes will be in recess during this whole time as well.

Other notes:
• If you have a graduate (high school, college, grad school, trade school, or whatever) please let the church office know as soon as possible.
• Welcome to Ruth Endy who began as Assistant to the Pastor for Building Ministry and Mission on May 3. Contact information: 610-970-8376 or FBCRuth@comcast.net.
• Thanks to Ruth Cottrell, we’re still collecting “Pennies for Pipes.” A huge jug is in Echo Hall where you can place your change as a way for contributing to our heat repairs. This continues through Christmas.

Christian Education Nancy Unruh and Debra Brauner
We invite everyone to join us each Sunday morning for Sunday school and worship. There is a place for disciples of all ages from infants to adults, to join us in this faith journey!
• Mommy, Daddy, and Me Class for infants to two-year-olds+ and their parents.
• Cokesbury’s Rock Solid curriculum is for children aged 3-10 years with separate classes for 3-4-year-olds and 5-10 year olds.
• Students in Middle School share in discussions based on a series of books titled Caffeine and Christ, Caffeine and Commitment, Caffeine and Character, and Caffeine and Confusion by Steven Case.
• High School and Post High students view and discuss a video series titled NOOMA.
• Adults explore a different topic each week in Judson Bible Journeys for Adults. For those unable to meet with the class on Sunday morning, copies of Journeys are available on the table in Echo Hall for anyone wishing to take them home for personal use.

Topics are:
May 9 “Distinguishing Truth from Empty Deceit” (Col. 2:1-19)
May 16 “Unity in Community” (Col. 3:12-17)
May 23 “Accountable in Community” (Philemon 8-18)
May 30 “Tempering Discernment with Mercy” (Jude 3-7; 19-25

Please note these changes for the Summer months:
• Sunday school and Children’s Church will take a short recess over the summer! The last day Sunday school classes will meet and Children’s Church will be offered is May 30. Church Nursery will still be offered during the service. Please join us for worship over the summer and be refreshed and ready for a new year of Sunday school and Children’s Church again in the fall.
• The Spiritual Direction Group will not meet again until September. Please continue to read the devotions in “May I Have This Dance” over the summer months. If you would like to participate, please contact Debra Brauner to order a book.
• The Prayer Shawl Ministry Team will not meet again until September. Please keep knitting or crocheting over the summer. Newly finished prayer shawls may be brought to the office at any time. Prayer shawls are distributed whenever there is a need. If you would like directions for creating a prayer shawl, contact Debra Brauner at (610) 283-0292 or debrauner@comcast.net. Plan to meet with this active ministry team when we reconvene in the Fall.

The Secret Place is available in Echo Hall for friends and members to take home for use in personal devotions. Please consider placing a contribution in the white box to help defray the cost of making this material available.

Redner’s Save-a-Tape Receipts
We’re looking for your Redner’s Save-a-Tape receipts. Place them in the box on top of the mail slots in Echo Hall. Redner’s will donate 1% of sales to our church. These funds are deposited in the Christian Education fund.

Spend a while on the Nile! VBS 2010
EGYPT –– Joseph’s Journey from Prison to Palace

This year we will partner with Zion’s UCC to offer Vacation Bible School to the children of both congregations and the community. VBS will be held here at FBC from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, June 21-25. Double the kids, double the excitement! Mark you calendars now and plan to join us as we experience Joseph’s incredible faith journey!

If you are interested in helping with music, crafts, snacks, or as a group leader, please speak to Nancy Unruh, Sue Heinz, or Debra Brauner. A VBS Staff Luncheon and Training will take place at FBC on Sunday, May 16 after the worship service. Come meet the folk from Zion's who will be partnering with FBC to offer VBS this year and learn about the VBS program.

When School is Out -- Camp is On!
Day Camp at Men-O-Lan
August 14-15
For children that have completed 1st -8th grades. Registration forms will be available July 4th! Remember the fun we had last year? Let's do it again! And invite a friend!

In-Town Mission Project
August 1-6, 2010
Representatives from FBC, Trinity UCC, St. Paul's UCC, and Zion's UCC have been meeting since January to plan another In-Town Mission Project. (Look for the article in the Pottstown Mercury about last year's work camp- it's on the bulletin board outside the office) The dates for the project this year are Sunday, August 1 -- Friday, August 6. Teens entering sixth through twelfth grades are invited to participate. There is no cost to participate in this week-long event. Last year, Joshua Norman and Debra Brauner participated. If you would like information about housing, food, work projects, and activities, please speak to Joshua or Debra. There will be an information night at Trinity UCC on June 6, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Youth and parents are welcome to attend. We are looking for work projects. If you can recommend a site, please contact Debra Brauner. Jobs should be suitable for teens to complete. We need additional adults to supervise and chaperone. Adults do not have to commit to the entire week. Whatever time you can give will be appreciated. We are also looking for members willing to serve dinner at their home to a small group of teens and adults (8-10) one evening during the week and to allow participants to shower there. If you are interested in participating or available to help in any way, please speak to Debra Brauner at (610) 283-0292.

Member Support Mary Etta Mest
The zoning variance for 57 North Franklin Street has been granted to the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities! We thank God for this decision. Now the creativity and work can move forward. Thank you for your prayers. A Capital Campaign will begin very soon. Thank you for everything you do for the people of Pottstown through the Cluster.

The Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities (PCRC) needs someone to learn the system of the treasurer for PCRC. The person would assist our present treasurer this year to learn the process and then become the treasurer starting in January, 2011. This is a volunteer position which would take a few hours a month. If you think you may qualify and are interested, please tell Mary Etta or call Barbara Wilhelmy at 610-970-5995.
 “Senior Boxes" is a new program which is available at various food distribution centers including our Pottstown Cluster Outreach Program. Seniors who qualify financially may register at the Cluster Outreach Center, 137 Walnut Street, Pottstown, 610-970-5995, clusterpantry@verizon.net, or www.pottstowncluster.org . To register in person, the hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon every day. We have application forms in our First Baptist office. Please ask Doris Stutzman or Mary Etta Mest. The boxes are distributed monthly.  The next Shepherd Meetings will be held Tuesday, August 10, at 1:30 and 7:00 pm. The plan is to pray for our sheep in the belief that praying in a group is even more powerful than praying individually. Time will be available to make suggestions for refining this ministry. If you are not a Shepherd, feel free to tell your Shepherd of any personal, or not so personal, concerns you may have for which we can pray during our Shepherd meeting. You may ask for your name to be withheld.
Active members and active non-members are included in our Shepherd program. We have recently adjusted the "flocks." Many of you have the same Shepherd as you did in 2009. A few of you may have a new Shepherd. A few of our previous Shepherds became ill. If you are not a Shepherd but are interested in becoming one in the future, please speak to Marvin Marsh or Mary Etta Mest.
 Elderberries Luncheon
An Elderberries Luncheon is scheduled every third Monday at the VIP Diner at 12 noon. Everyone is invited. Please sign up with June Matthews or Barbara Kurtz. This is open to all senior members and friends of the church. Come join in the fun!

Have you filled out your congregational profile page and turned it into the Diaconate yet? Please do so as soon as possible. You may place it in the offering or in the box located in Echo Hall.

Prayers for Solana Beach Choir
Remember Gayle Hall and the Solana Beach choir and their trip to Hungary, Ukraine, & Russia, this summer. Their first two events are in Budapest, Hungary on the 26th and 27th of June.
Habitat for Humanity Natalie Rogers
Work is underway by the volunteers at 408 Beech Street, Pottstown. When you drive by, look at the "ugly duckling" because in a few months, it will become a "beautiful swan"!! Love in Action Tours is a pre-requisite to volunteering at the jobsite. Tours begin at 9:30 a.m. with a short video and then we tour the jobsite. Interested participants are to pre-register at HFHMC (610) 278-7710. The next Love in Action Tour will be on August 14 at 9:30 am.

Missions Kathy Purington
RMMO Offering - Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering.
During the month of June, we will collect for the RMMO. This American Baptist Offering is a means of thanking over 3,000 retired American Baptist ministers/missionaries and their widowed spouses for their services. The offering also provides emergency or financial assistance - such as roof and boiler repairs/replacements, making a home wheelchair accessible, paying for wheelchairs and other medical, dental and prescription expenses.

That our gift makes a difference can be noted in the thank you letters. One recipient of the RMMO wrote “Many thanks to American Baptist congregations for the “Thank You” check again this year. What a blessing to be thought of by our churches, and especially so in this year of high economic distress in our country.

The RMMO provides a tangible means to thank those who have so faithfully served by helping others. Special RMMO envelopes can be found in the pew racks. Let's send a clear message of Love and Gratitude to our ministers and missionaries for their years of service. Our 2010 goal is $351.00.

Cluster
To date, we have collected 275 lbs of food towards our 2010 Food Challenge of 1,000 lbs for the Cluster. The Cluster is still in need of the following items: tuna, peanut butter, plain oatmeal and low sodium soup as well as diapers, baby wipes, laundry and dish detergent.

Thank-You for Supporting the Blankets + and Baby Manna Offerings
In April, $450.00 was collected for the Blanket + Offering. This offering is used to help cope with the initial demands of disasters such as the earthquakes in Haiti and Chili as well as funding recovery and rehabilitation. On Mother's Day, $219 was collected for 'Baby Manna.' This provides food and formula for needy infants in the Philadelphia Region. Thanks to all for your on-going support of these two offerings !!!

Safe Church Task Force Terryl Marsh
The Task Force has three sub-committees. One is addressing the issues of the physical plant, the second is working with the information regarding staff screening, hiring and training and the third is handling the identification, reporting and handling of incidents. In addition, Mike Heinz has agreed to consult to the Task Force regarding computer safety. Each of the sub-groups has drafted policies and related to their areas. Now we are working on combining the drafts into a coherent single document. Because of the detail needed particularly with the procedures regarding the different programs and populations using the building as part of the FBC and from the community it was decided to develop a comprehensive policy with separate guidelines. The work is continuing with the hope of having a document ready for review by the Steering Committee and counsel in June and over the summer.

GuideOne Insurance, FBC's company, has produced a bible study program under the title of "Becoming Faithful Stewards of God's Gifts." The Task Force worked with Marvin as a worship planning committee for the Easter season leading to Pentecost (4/11 - 5/23/10).

A Cancer Prevention Study
will be conducted by the American Cancer Society in the Pottstown area this year. This is their third study. Anyone between the ages of 30-65 who has never been diagnosed with cancer and is willing to commit to the long term study (20 - 30 years) can participate. You can begin your volunteer work at this years Relay for Life event on June 5 -6 by completing a brief survey and giving a small amount of blood. Participants will be asked to complete a more detailed survey and periodically over the years, will receive surveys sent to their homes to update that information. More information at www.cancer.orgcps3.

Gnosis Fellowship
The Gnosis Fellowship will meet on June 1 at 12:30 pm. Bring a sandwich; dessert will be provided.

Want a Chance to honor a Veteran?
Please come out and join members of the American Legion at 8:00 AM on Saturday, May 22 at Highland Memorial Park and help to place flags at the gravesites of our veterans. There are more than 1900 gravesites that are in need of flags. It is a big job and any amount of time you can give, be it an hour or two is greatly appreciated. Please help if you are able. You may meet Legion members to receive instructions and flags at the Veteran's section of the cemetery (Corner of State St. and Reynolds Ave.) It is suggested that you wear some kind of waterproof boot. Even if it hasn't been raining the grass is extremely wet at 8 AM.

“Music on the Green”
Pottsgrove Community Band Concert
Monday, June 7, at 7:00 pm
(Rain date -- June 14)
Zion's Church Lawn, 100 Hanover St., Pottstown

Earth Rhythms - Livin' in the Rhythm
Thursday, June 17, at 7:00 pm
First Baptist Church Lawn

Please bring lawn chairs!

Both concerts are being co-sponsored by both Zion's & FBC

If you would like to be a music sponsor ($5.00 donation) or music patron ($10.00 donation), Donation forms will be included in the May 16th and 23rd bulletins and may be returned with your donation to Doris Stutzman.

Father's Day Booklets
It's time again for our annual Father's Day booklets - an opportunity for honoring fathers and special men who are living and remembering fathers and special men who are no longer with us. Each listing is one dollar, and there will be plenty of booklets printed for you to share with those whom you have listed or others who would appreciate the thought. The deadline for submitting names is Sunday, June 13, but the earlier your names are submitted, the more helpful it is for getting the project together. This is part of our annual fundraising budget. We realized nearly $400 toward the regular church budget with Mother's Day.

Opportunities
For Service, Education and Fellowship
Community Meal Volunteers for FBC at Christ Church (First Monday of each month, with tasks from 10 am through 1 pm). See John Forrest for more info.
Spiritual Direction Group (First Mondays every month at 7:00 - but on recess now till fall). Contact Nancy Unruh.
Depression Support Group, Every other Tuesday at 6:30 pm
Communion at Manatawny Manor (Every second Thursday of the month at 2:00 pm in the second floor activity room)
Prayer Shawl Group (Fourth Tuesday at noon. Bring a bag lunch.) Talk to Debra Brauner for more info. Next meeting in September, but you can be introduced to the shawls on an individual basis before that.
Love in Action Tour by Habitat for Humanity, hosted by FBC (Second Saturday at 9:30 am). This is an introduction to the work of Habitat in Pottstown and all are welcome.
Narcotics Anonymous (Every Saturday at noon and 6:00 pm, and every Monday at 7:00 pm)
Choir Rehearsal (Every Sunday at 9:30 am).
Work Day at the Church every second Saturday of the month. No matter your age or skill level, there is something to be done. See Dave Trexler for more info.
Adult Study Class (Every Sunday at 9:30 am)
Invitation to bring someone to worship (Every Sunday)