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September 2008

It's been a while.

Please forgive us that some of the information in this issue is a little dated. We have not been able to publish the Voice for a few months. Every attempt will be made to publish on a regular schedule from here forward.

Combined Worship Serviceheld Sunday, August 17, 2008

Wow! God is so in control!
Remember Saturday, August 16th? It was very very hot in Hillsboro. 104 degrees! Then on Monday, August 18th it was so very gray and stormy! But between these two weather peaks God sent us a soft and tranquil day.
Sunday, what a beautiful day it was. We were at Bagley Park to enjoy a morning of song and spoken Word of God. Together the two congregations of Hillsboro First Baptist Church gathered under a green canopy of tall trees. Floating of smiling folks greeting one another was a cloud of tantalizing, and spicy smells. Several men were already grilling meat for the picnic that was to come later.

The recently renewed city park was redolent with bright flowers and happy children. Drifting away, into the neighborhoods, could be heard the joyful songs of praise led by musicians from both congregations.

That day we actually heard six sermons. First Hector spoke in Spanish and Elisabeth translated into English. The second Pastor to speak was Andy Baxter with Hector as his translator, for our third and fourth sermons. Sermons five and six were by Pastor Mark with Humberto translating. By this time the children had been released to their own activities.
Everything had been well planned and the morning went smoothly. Both the Hispanic and English churches were pleased by the response to the opportunity to spend this time worshiping together.

Finally: It was time to eat and our anticipation and expectations were well rewarded.
It was a to good day, good people and our great God. A perfect formula.


Adult Sunday School:
August was a time for our teachers of adult classes to take a break. All adult classes were combined and met in the Sanctuary at 9:30 AM each Sunday morning.
Adult Sunday School classes will return to regular schedule on September 14th.


Sunday service Listening

Sunday sermons can be heard online. For online listening on the internet during the week go to WWW.HFBCH.org
If you would like a CD of the entire service you may pick one up in the church office or request one be mailed to you.

Hospice of Washington County
Can you, will you, assist with Hospice? If so contact: Anne Caravone
Coordinator of Volunteer and Bereavement Services 900 SE Oak Suite 202
Hillsboro Or 97123
(503)648-9565
fax (503)648-1282
anne@hospicewc.org

Women's Ministry Page

Women's Ministries are in the planning stages of several events. We look forward to serving you through these opportunities. Perhaps you would like to be involved in some of the preparations. We are always pleased to receive your offers to volunteer.

The Quilt Show is October 3-4 2008. If you would like to be included among the many volunteers needed for this event, please see Elsie Clausen or Pat Brown.

The Silent Auction fund raiser was a hit last year. Many of you asked us to do it again this year. We heard you and have it on the calendar for November 2, 2008. More details coming soon.

We are currently putting together the Retreat Committee for our May 1-3 2009 retreat. If you are interested in participating in the planning of this retreat, we would enjoy your ideas. Please see Janice Connell.

Thank you to Pat Brown and Colleen Ware for the exquisite Princess Dessert. We had a great time. The decorations were beautiful, the desserts were tasty, and the little princesses were delightful. We enjoyed the testimony of Lyndsay Tappert and a special Princess story told by Liz Colligan.

It is not too late to sign up for Secret Sisters. The program is going so well that we want to include all who are interested. There are application forms on the table in the foyer. Please give your completed application to Terah Wiser or Janice Connell

Can you think of two words that go together well and define FUN? They are Pajama and Party. Watch for more details

Women's Ministries Team Contact Information Email Address -hfbcwm@comcast.net
Director - Janice Connell - 503-844-9653
Prayer Coordinator - Kathy Livingston - 503-693-8374 Finance - Colleen Ware - 503-649-7714
Pat Brown - 503-543-5475
Letha Johnson - 503-640-6816

Choir is Beginning

Choir will be starting again Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 7:00 PM come on out and help us make a "Joyful noise unto the Lord". For more information contact James Cameron at 123jdc@gmail.com Shower singers or opera virtuosos welcome

Dear Friends of First Baptist
As you know, Nancy Radmacher recently went home to be with the Lord. His gain, our loss. More importantly Dave's loss, and he is struggling. He could use some company and encouragement. Dave's memory isn't very good these days, but he misses his church family along with Nancy and he needs us to come along side in any way we can and be there for him. So, if you're able, please do what you can. Dave lives at Jennings-McCall in Forest Grove at 2221 Oak St. Apt. #411, phone 503-359-5055.
We had dinner with Dave not too long ago and it was such a treat to spend time with him. He keeps talking about how much he misses Nancy and he clings to the phrase, "One day at a time, Lord Jesus, one day at a time." So, if you're able to go out and visit Dave that would really be an encouragement to him.
Evenings are especially hard I think. His daughter, Susan, lives here in Hillsboro, and it's also good to call her to check on his schedule as he doesn't always remember when he's going where. Sue can be reached at 640-6986.
Thanks in advance for what you'll bring to a brother in need. The impact of Dave and Nancy Radmacher is immeasurable. They gave years and years, money and time to do amazing things here on the corner of 2nd and Lincoln. Now it's our turn.
Doug & Dawn Stover

Gone But Not Forgotten

Dear Church family
Thank you seems so inadequate to express the gratitude I feel for all the cards, flowers, monetary gifts and meals eaten at restaurants that were provided in the loss of my daughter and Paula's sister, Laura Shinn.
I am especially grateful to the women who came to the memorial service when there was a princess dessert going on at the church at the same time.
I also appreciate Pastor Jerry coming to the service.
Again, thank you for everything.
Shirley & Paula Lane

Appreciation Pot Luck

Sunday, September 21st
In the Fellowship Hall after the morning service, to show our appreciation to Russ Ragsdale & Dave Miller for their service to our congregation. John & Carol Ragsdale will also be present to share information with folks interested in their ministry. What to bring: A—J salad and K—Z main dish. Cakes will be provided.

Coming Events

Heritage Builders Kickoff
Sept. 14th at 5:00 P.M.
Parenting in the trenches... do you have everything you need? Households with kids 0-18 Spend time with other families. Menu: Salad bar, Garlic cheese bread, brownies & ice cream. Donations appreciated

2009 Pictorial Directory
Photos will be taken on Nov. 11th & 12th. We are in need of volunteers to help with organizing and calling to remind our members of their scheduled times.
Please contact Shirley Mickelson in the church office if you would like to help.

Small Groups
Looking for a connection? Looking for a place to grow? Try one of our small groups. For more info, call the church office at 503-648-0525 or visit us online at www.hfbch.org

Prayer Chain
Call Vivian Miller at 503-615-0298 and/or Bill Zielsdorf at 503-648-9024. No prayer request is too small, and we know that prayer will provide "comfort in chaos". Don't hesitate to call. We want to be praying for each other.

Our Church Library
Located in the C.E. Building there are lots of wonderful books for all ages. It is there for you to enjoy. Please come and encourage others to come and check out a book.
Your Library Staff.

Are you interested in volunteering with Washington County Hospice?
Below is information about two upcoming classes
being offered.

WHAT: Washington County Hospice Volunteer Training Call 648-9565 for information or to

register
WHERE: Tuality Health Education Center 335 SE 8th Ave Hillsboro, OR 97123
COST: FREE... but pre-registration is required... Call 648-9565

VOLUNTEER TRAINING: Do you want to give back to your neighbors and community? Hospice of Washington County will present a seven-session, 24-hour hospice training course on September 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, and 25 from 6:30 — 9:30 PM and all day, 9 am to 4 pm, on Saturday, September 20. The classes are taught by healthcare professionals for anyone interested in volunteering their time to care for and support patients and their families during the final stages of a life-limiting illness. Volunteers can help with direct care of patients, bereavement work with grieving families, clerical work in the office, public relations in the community, and planning and guidance work as members of the board of directors. There is no fee but pre-registration by September 9 is requested. For more information or to pre-register call the hospice office at 503-648-9565 or email anne@hospicewc.org.

Washington County Hospice and Tuality Hospital Foundation will co-sponsor Surviving the Loss, a free six week grief support group providing a safe environment to share your grief and learn new ways to cope with the loss of a loved one. Call 648-9565 to register: classes held :
Tuesday s 6pm — 7:30 pm October 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, November 4th, and 11th
Wednesday s 10:30 am to noon October 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, Nov 5th &12th

Thank you for helping us to let others know about these classes
Anne Caravone - Coordinator of Volunteer and Bereavement Services

Community Care Day

Despite the 100 degree plus heat approximately 75 people from First Baptist Church, Calvary Chapel, and Intel convened on Century High School to do grounds clean-up and beautification. But because of the heat a hearty group started at 6:00 AM and wrapped up their shift just as the others were arriving at 9:00 AM.
With one exception the entire list of priority items was completed. The estimate is that 95% of the scheduled work was accomplished. One section of planters did not have bark dust spread on it; a few more people would have made the difference.
I know from personal conversation with the principal at Century that the work is very much noticed, and appreciated by the staff, parents and students.
In addition to the school clean-up we filled 33 bags with school materials for grade school children. This, along with the clean-up work, was a great statement as to what Christians working together can do for the community.
Thanks to all of you that participated, as a Church we are already scheduled for next year. John Sailors

WHAT IS STONES-GLO?

Christ made apprentices. (Mt, Mk, Lk, Jn)
Christ commanded us to make apprentices. (Mt 28:18-20)
The Word of Christ has instructed us how to do so. (Deut 6:4-9; Ps 78:1-8; Eph 4:11-16; Col 3:16; 1&2 Tim; Titus)

It is a goal of the youth & family ministries of HFBC to train children in Righteousness in such a way that they follow Christ with the whole of their lives.

This training comes through apprenticeship.
First and most powerfully - through the parents.
Second & importantly - through other more mature Christians.
The youth ministry of HFBC seeks to create the space for these apprentice relationships to happen in an even more effective way.

Since Heritage Builders began over three years ago, more and more parents of First Baptist have grown in their level of ownership of raising their children spiritually. A result was a few parents and adults asking questions about the youth ministry and how it works.

The result of these questions is STONES-GLO.
STONES-GLO is simply an approach to ministry that trains, equips, and provides for Christian apprenticeship to happen in more life on life contexts.
It employs focused Biblical teaching that favors deeper over wider learning.
It depends on 1-1 and 1-2 relationships with believers of the local body engaged in intentional apprenticeship. Therefore it depends on numerous adults who are spiritually more mature to make it success
It allows for learning to happen experientially through avenues of interest, interaction, and smaller groups. It is designed to make application of following Christ the priority of what we do.
Broad strokes of the structure: (please do not assume "regular" = once per week)

Regular (approx: twice per quarter) gatherings of all the kids and most of the adults involved for an activity/outing/event that provides fun and friendship, but introduces the teaching that will be walked thru and lived out in the following months.

Regular outings/gatherings with gender based and age appropriate smaller groups to dive deeper into & experience current Biblical teaching.

Regular 1-1 or 1-2 apprenticeship relationships following up on teaching and personal following of Christ.

Leadership:
The head leadership of STONES-GLO is Pastor Mark Colligan with current leadership team members Rich & Michelle Finn and Kelly Alvarez. More are to come... you very well could be that more.

Definitions:

APPRENTICESHIP:
We are using this term because the term discipleship has too many preconceived meanings to it that keep us from communicating clearly. An apprentice is someone who is being trained by another in a specific skill or art. Christ commands us to make disciples who obey Him and what He said to do. Those who are mature train those who are learning, and all keep growing.

STONES:
Family camp started a "tradition" you might say where young boys found 5 stones – now they need to earn them. The stones are not limited to 5 alone, but each would stand for a masculine value/character trait/growth step/rite of passage etc. This first year we will focus on Courage and literally pound that into the ground. Other themes for the future could be: brotherhood, strength, service, accountability, integrity, sacrifice, selflessness restraint, self control, compassion, devotion, commitment, respect, etc. \

STONES simply put is men teaching boys what it means to be a man who follows Christ.

GLO:
"Girls Living Out-loud." The training of girls to see, through the lens of scripture, the world as it has been presented to them. Learning how to understand, navigate, and follow Christ in the midst of that fallen world. Girls will seek to follow Christ and develop a theme of servitude as they explore ways to serve others individually or even community wide. GLO simply put is women teaching girls what it means to be a woman who follows Christ.
1-1 or 1-2 discipleship relationships:
Intentional mentoring relationships between the more mature and the less mature in their following of Christ in life. These relationships are individual, do not follow the same structure for each set, are extremely dynamic, and are the true backbone of this ministry. It is the closest example to what we see Christ doing in scripture with His disciples.

Age/grade Span:
This ministry is aimed at the 5th grade level and older through High school.

CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER
Our special Christmas offering for our missionaries will be in October once again. It will begin the first Sunday of October and continue through the first Sunday of November. Last year we were able to send a good gift to each of our missionaries and workers at home and abroad. Plan ahead now and be prepared to participate in this special gift to those who are carrying the Good News to people in places we, as a church, cannot go. You may place your gifts in the "gift box" in the church auditorium from October 5 through November 2 or you may send it in to the Church Office marked for "Christmas in October."

TWR MISSIONARIES VISITING
John and Carol Ragsdale, and their children , Jean-Marc and Nicole, have returned for a short home assignment following the completion of their third term of service at the African headquarters of Trans World Radio in South Africa. After packing up their home in Kempton Park, near Johannesburg, they left for the U.S. arriving in Cary, North Carolina, on August 14. Following a few days briefing at TWR headquarters they flew to Tampa, FL, to visit Carol's parents, Mel and Kathy Carter (retired missionaries with the Christian and Missionary Alliance).
They will spend three months in Hillsboro from September 10 through December 12. Most of their time will involve traveling around the Northwest visiting supporters and speaking in churches. They will be Speaking here on September 21 during the morning service and enjoying the potluck meal following. Come join us on September 21 and hear how God has been working in lives around Africa.

VOICE JUNE 2008

Virginia Groman Memorial

Greetings from Tom Groman
As you can imagine with the loss of my constant source of encouragement, best friend, the love of my life, my wife of 52 years and mother of our children these have been the hardest two months of our family's lives and we are still grieving. However, God has shown me what He wants me to do in the near future. Thus I have some information I would like you to pass on to the Missions Commission And the Church body as a whole. As you may remember Virginia and I had been raising money to help the Church in Huauchinango, Puebla buy land for a church building and to see the Church built. They are a 10 year old, mostly poor congregation of 70 believers who are meeting in a 15x20 foot small two care garage. They have raised $7000.00 and we, with the help of others, have given another $7,000.00 or so. Praise the Lord.

They have found an excellent lot 52' wide by 65' deep, but they need another $15,000.00 which I am giving them, to buy the land. The land is in a housing area of school teachers & there is no other church in the whole area. A great location. During the next two months I need to raise at least $50,000.00 to build the church. I plan to leave about the middle of July & I will stay there overseeing the construction until the building is completed. In the past week God has raised up over $13,000.00 which only leaves $37,000.00 or so to go. The building is going to be dedicated to the memory of Virginia. During the funeral for her, over $1000.00 dollars came in with cards saying in memory of Virginia & I thought, as did the Church family, what better memorial could be built for her than the church we wanted so much to see built in Huauchinango, the town of 17,000 people where we started out working in 1967. Which has now grown to over 100,000 people. Anything the Church & individual church families can do would be greatly appreciated individuals and the church could send their checks to :

Dayton First Baptist Church
300 Flower Lane
Dayton, OR 97114-9740

In the "FOR" area on the check write: Virginia Memorial Building Fund.
At the end on the year they will send you a tax deductible receipt.

May God richly bless you all, in His love,
Tom Groman



THANK YOU
Thank you for keeping is in your prayers and for supporting us in our ministry at Springdale. Keep praying for our church! (and us too, of course)
Love,
The Madsen Family

QUILTS DELIVERED
Last Wednesday a group of us went to Taulity to deliver our quilts. Becky and Amy were most gracious and very excited about the 17 quilts that we spread out on the tables. While enjoying ocffee and treats with Amy and Becky they told us a few stories of the ladies who receive these. One story was about one quilt that was larger than all of the others and it was given to a mom who had two young girls. The quil was large enough to wrap around all three of them as they would snuggle together while mom was recuperating from treatments. And one young lady returned after about a eyar and a half for a cancer that returned, and with her she had brought the quilt she received her first time in the hospital.

It's with great contenment that we deliver these gifts as we know they bring a measure of comfort to those who are either going through very tough cancer treatments, or for babies who might otherwise go home with nothing at allo wrapped around their little bodiews. We are so blessed to be able to provide this comfort to others.

Thank you for your encouragment and support.
The "Quilted Sisters"
Mary, Merlene, Jean, Susan, Patti, Elsie, Ruby, Mary Helen, Marilyn and others

A FATHER'S DAY POEM

When Father Was a Kid
I wish I'd been livin' when my father was a kid.

The kids I knew in my day couldn't do the stunts he did.

We kids were sort of useless and were always gettin' sick,

And father said that none of us was worth a blooming lick.

One day we had measels and the next day had the hives,

And we always had skinned ankles for unlucky ducks and dives,
But father, he had nothin', why he never caught a cold,

And worked twice as hard as we did, when he wasn't half as old.

He had not fruit nor candy, and he had no Sunday clothes,

He had one shirt and overalls, and big shoes with copper toes.

He jumped up in the mornin' with no time to stop for prayers,

And he buttoned up his spenders, as he scampered down the stairs.

He had the chickens watered, and he had the horses fed,

When kids like those he fathered, were still snoozin in the bed.
Now that's the way my Dad told it, and he told it every day;
So I s'pose was true as gospel, as the preachers like to say.

Yet what sort of made me wonder, and what kind'a puzzled me,

Was he never seemed the hustler, that he said he used to be,
When I knew him why for sleepin' he was just as bad as us,

And when mother called him early, he made just as bad a fuss.
But it tells us in the Bible how the old Apostle Paul,

Says things he used to love to do he don't do now at all.

So, now since good apostles found the changing right,

Perhaps Dad changed his method when he got his second sight.

Perhaps it seemed religious when my Dad became a man,

To put away those kiddish trifles and try a better plan.

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Dear friends at First Baptist,
I thank you for your generous gift sent for Christmas. I used your money toward the purchase of an easel that is multifunctional. It is a whiteboard background that is also magnetized which will help a lot with my teaching and other meetings.

Since most of my students are younger it always helps to work out things together or have plenty of review. I truly think this board will help us do this better than just working things out on my small lap chalkboard. (Also, not nearly as messy as the chalk, "dustless" really
doesn't exist here.

With the beginning of a new, school year starting this week for the Argentines, it seems things
are starting to get into more of a routine. Even though many of my students study according to the US schedule (with some necessary adjustment) it is a bit easier for them when their friends are also studying. Otherwise their friends are wanting to play in the afternoon and stay up really late. That can be hard on my students who want to join their friends.

I look forward to using my new board with my students this next week. It fits right into my back seat! Thank you for all you do to allow me to be here.

In Him

Barbara Bentley

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Many thanks to whom ever puts together "The Voice" for us each month. It is informative and very interesting!
Bessie Hodson

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WOMEN'S MINISTRIES

COMMUNICATION

Our new email address was set up for your convenience. Its purpose is two-fold. One reason Is for us to receive your thoughts and ideas. We would enjoy hearing from you. Do you have an idea for an eveNt? Do you have an evaluation of a past event? Is there something you would like to share on the Women's Ministries page of The Voice? The second reason is expediency in communication from the Women's Ministries Team if needed."

Please let us know if you would like to be added to our distribution list by sending your email address to hfbcwm@comcast.net.

We don't want to miss you if you do not have emai. To be included in communication from Women's Ministries, simply let one of the team members know of your interest so we can include you on our calling list.

Secret Sisters Kickoff

There are (at the time of this writing) thirty four Secret Sisters. Seventeen were able to join us
for the kickoff. It was a great time. There was giggling, fellowship, games and refreshments. Most of the fun came when we were able to reveal who has whom as their Secret Sister.
It is never too late to get in on the fun. If you are interested in being a Secret Sister, fill out the form in the foyer and give it to Torah Wiser or Janice Connell. We’ll get your sister assigned as soon as possible.
The Secret Sister table is located In the foyer near the loveseat. You may place cards and items for your secret sister on the table. Be sure to watch for items your sister may have left for
you. We don't want to leave them on the table too long.

Tyler Grace Tappert Shower

There were 25 women in attendance. The decorations were very nice and the cake was adorable. We played a couple of games and enjoyed the fellowship. Tyler was her usual
cute self. She loved the attention and the beautiful new clothes and gifts. Ws not too early to tell that Tyler was born to shop.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Timberlake Vacation Bible School

June 23-28th

Make it and take it craft fair

When: June 28th

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

There is sure to be a fun even for everyone. Think harvest party, but...instead of pumpkins and cold, summer and art. Mark your calendars, you want to miss it.

Mother/daughter bake-off

3rd-8th grade girls and their moms are invited to come to the church lounge on June 21st at 10 a.m. We will make cookies to share with the congregation.

Princess Dessert

All women and girls are invited. We are all Princesses of the King, Saturday, June 7th at 2:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. The cost is $3.00 for Princesses 12 & up and $2.00 for Princesses 11 & under. No childcare will be provided.

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Come Meet the New Couple

What: Open house/wedding reception

When: Sunday June 8th

Time: 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Where: Dave & Debby Anderson's home

49651 NW Clapshaw Hill Road

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All Church Family Camp

Family camp wll be July 11th through the 13th

Sign up by June 29th

VOICE MARCH 2008

THE VALUES OF OUR CHURCH
With transition in mind, Hillsboro Baptist has had to pay a lot of thought to what we are look­ing for in a new pastor and what direction we want to head in. With this in mind, the church came up with some very important values. - Your Board of Overseer's

We hope and delight in His word because it is an enduring, faithful, guide to life and because it testifies of Him whom we love.
The Word of God is foundational to our faith and our church. The scriptures were given to man by God and are our primary source for knowing His character and His plan for our lives both individually and corporately. Many promises are made in Scripture to those who hear and do the Word. The teaching and application of the scriptures will play the central role in our church structure and our church gatherings and will be our primary guide for decisions.

We value living together in hope, commitment, love and encouragement, growing together spiritually as a covenant community.
Our Covenant Community promises to support and encourage one
another in the development and expression of our faith in Christ. We seek to live and worship in harmony, always hoping for the best from each other, and giving the best of ourselves, to the glory of God. We commit to show love, accountability and forgiveness to one another. Our Covenant Community is merely a part of the Community which is the body of Christ.

We value spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people.
In obedience to His commandment and in response to His life laid down we accept the personal and corporate responsibility of reaching out to individuals and to the world.
We are each accountable for this ministry of the church and are a part of a body called to this unified effort. We seek to use clear, genuine and effective communication of the Gospel through the way we live each day and the words we use with all people. Because of the
importance of this work, we must grow in our burden for the lost as we spend the time,
energy, and finances God has given us to reach out to the lost. We will be bold and
creative in our efforts to reach all peoples by praying, pursuing relationships, working together, and sharing our lives.

We value personal spiritual growth.
Personal Spiritual Growth is a key element of any dynamic relationship with the Lord. Followers of Christ are called to deepen their connection with God through prayer, studying the word, and living by faith. Co-worshippers in this church also share the responsibility for each other's spiritual growth.
The Church has the
responsibility to provide an environment and ministries where individuals are supported and encouraged to grow spiritually.

We value dependence upon prayer.
We believe that the Christian's only true source of strength is God Himself. Because of the person and work of Jesus Christ, we can approach the throne of Grace with
confidence to find help in our times of need. Our struggle is a spiritual one. Prayer is one of the strongest parts of the armor of God and is the most powerful way that we can engage the struggle. Often it is our only way. The work of prayer is both an individual as well as
corporate endeavor. We pray on our own. We pray together. Christian work is only effective when there is a dependence upon prayer.
We value fellowship with the Hispanic congregation.
Our proximity to and history with the Hispanic congregation offers us a unique opportunity for relationship. As part of our commitment to covenant
community, we will make conscious efforts to deepen our relationship with the Hispanic congregation. As God leads, we will seek and support ways to actively participate in each other's lives and ministries.

UPDATE ON LIZ COLLIGAN'S HEALTH
For a brief stint a few years back, I relived my Jr. high days. I could have gotten into ninjitsu and all things Ninja... but I chose to go with magic. Contrary to the wishes of my evergrowing fan base to bring back my mullet and to wear a lot more purple on a day to day basis, I went with simple slight of hand stuff. No mirrors, smokes, levitations, or water escapes... just cards, cups & balls, and coins. Without revealing any hidden secrets, I'll let you know that you can purchase just about anything tricky. Including all kinds of non-normal coins. However, I never came across a coin with only one side. There was always the other side. (Interestingly enough, you could never see both sides at once... oh sure you could use a mirror - but it just ain't the same! Try talking to and truly relating with your wife only looking at her in a mirror!) I digress...

Yesterday was a really difficult day for us. Downright horrible at times. Even if it was Sunday and us fine church-going people gathered with a whole lot of believers and worshipped the Liv­ing God together in various forms (the worship, that is - not God). Tears and emotions spilled out for us both. True frustration, Physical pain - certainly more for Elle than me. Feisty kids that drove us crazy, and disappointment that things, times, people, etc were just not what we wanted them to be. That was one side.

The other side of the coin was always there. Occasionally it would flash by in our view and we'd have a moment of joy, hope, rest, conviction, peace, and the like - but in comparison to the seemingly BIGGER side of the coin, it was like someone has tossed our coin in the air and we got mere split second glimpses of the hope. Nevertheless, that other side was there. Not sure what God was doing with us all day, or all week for that matter... but it's been a wild ride (not positive wild like Space Mountain or a black diamond run at Veil - the other kind of wild).

Still people served us. Again we were given a basket of washed and folded laundry (the folded part is the most meaningful). Again someone washed the floors of our house. Again people ate at our table and we went and ate at theirs (thanks Tappert clan). And someone even changed out my fuel filter (Bob, I still owe you for that... how much?!) And we are thankful.

All this to bring you to the point that this week - NO CHEMO. Sweet words. Elle gets a BYE. No drip. No sit. No poke and soak. No endless plastic bags strapped to rolling poles. A week off to enjoy a drug free life (almost). Things are going really well on the cancer front in the sense of diagnosis... but it is really starting to wear on my sweet wife. Be praying for her. For strength, For en­ergy, For the grace to see that other side of the coin.

BTW... yesterday ended well. Very well. I guess the toss was "Tales."
This update is from February 11th.

To find more recent updates please go to www.elizabethcolligan.com

Easter is Coming!
Good Friday Service
March 21st at 7:00 pm. March 23rd

Easter Morning Breakfast
Breakfast will be served from 8:00 am to 9:30 am

Be sure to invite a neighbor or friend
Price is donation only

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR — FROM THE JOHNSONS IN TAIWAN

Dear friends at First Baptist,
How humbled we were to receive the very generous Christmas gift from you. God is so faithful to provide when we have needs, and we were able to pay some unexpected bills on our house in Hillsboro. We are really looking forward to sharing and talking with you when we come home later this year.
“This is the best class I've ever taken!" That was a comment from one of the guys in the Men of Honor class after finishing the final oral review board. Dwight got to create and teach a class for 20 guys on God's ideal for men. It was a challenge and a blessing to invest in these stu­dents. Meanwhile, Beckie continues to help young moms, working in the clinic and having extra dinner guests each week.
We hope to reconnect with you state-wide this year. We are starting to look at housing and car options. Please pray with us about these details as well as spending our time where we can make a difference in the lives of people who live in the US.
Beginning on June 6th, our address and phone will be:
240 NE 20th Place Hillsboro, OR 97124
(You can see our on going updates at www.johnson-taiwan.net)
In Him,Dwight, Beckie and Malia



Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Lord at H.F.B.Ch.,

We have had a good time ministering to these dear folks here in Harbor/Brookings. We have been with them for nearly a year, but we will have to leave for home on the day after Easter next month. We are praying that they will be much closer to finding a new pastor very soon. That will be a real treat when God sends him, and we know that God will send them just the right person.

A week ago Sunday, the Lord laid His Spirit on two gentlemen in the church and
they came forward to receive Christ. That was very exciting!

We thank you so very much for picking up our support. We are so grateful for your
help.

In Serving Christ,
Phil & Judie Thompson

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

Women's Ministries would like to hear your ideas. We plan to have a page in The Voice each month with items of interest to women. What would you like to see on this page? Please help us give our page an interesting name that expresses the focus of our ministry. You may submit you suggestions to Janice Connell @ 503-844-9653 or byHisgracejc@comcast.net.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works and glorify your Father in heaven. " Matthew 5:16

What do others see in your life that would attract them to Christ? Is your light shining?
This month’s challenge is to be aware of God's light in you and let it shine each and every day.

THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO...
A new ministry is coming our way. It will be exciting, fun and encouraging. Watch for more details to be revealed soon. This is something that you will not want to miss.
Our next exciting Women's Retreat will be in the spring of 2009. In the meantime, watch for alternative activities in 2008.

OUR NEW WOMEN'S MINISTRY DIRECTOR —
JANICE CONNELL

Janice Connell is a native Oregonian, born in Astoria. She has been married to Mike for 37 years. They have two children and six grandchildren.
Janice has the complete collection of "I Love Lucy" dolls, and enjoys cozy afternoons watching her original I Love Lucy series DVD's with her granddaughter Mackenzie. Other hobbies include travel, fun with grandchildren and going to the movies with her sister Carol. Her favorite color has been orange for as long as she can remember, but she is now leaning toward red. Her favorite flowers are Carnations of every color and variegation. Since giving her heart to Jesus in the sixth grade, she has always been involved in her church by participating in different ministries and activities. She loves to plan and organize special events. Women's Ministries is dear to Janice as she has a heart for women and for serving God. She has served the women at HFBC for nearly three years and brings experience and compassion to her new role as director of Women's Ministries team, having served in that role at an-other church.

Favorite scripture verses include "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, 0 LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer" (Psalm 19:14), and "...love the Lord your God and walk in all His ways and keep His commandments and hold fast to Him and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Joshua 22:5b) Her goal is to do just that. Love the Lord, serve Him, and be pleasing in His sight.
Janice welcomes your thoughts and ideas regarding Women's Ministries and would love to hear from you.

HERITAGE BUILDERS
For those of you who have never been to Heritage Builders, it is a ministry that focuses on families raising their children with purpose and intention.

Currently, we are learning (and teaching our children) what it means to be an ambassador of Christ. Our children of all ages have learned what "ambassador" means and how important it is that we reflect what it means to be a Christian. Pastor Mark keeps us on track with homework that allows us to do activities with our children between our monthly visits that really hits home. I encourage any family that has not had a chance to experience Heritage Builders to stop by.

Our last meeting in February we celebrated the Chinese New Year, complete with Chinese food, beautiful decorations that really transformed the room (by Michelle Finn), and parting gifts that are all part of the Chinese New Year tradition.

We discussed what it means to represent our Lord and practical ways to do that and the sometimes difficult ways to reach out to or relay our faith to others around us. It was comforting to a lot of people that we all have fears or obstacles when it comes to sharing our faith with others who are still in the dark, but that we all also know how important this role is.
We continued to discuss what our families will be doing in May, when we will have HB in our own homes instead of church. Who will we choose toinvite into our homes? What will we choose to do? These are all things that we continued to pray about.

Our homework this month is to pray with our children at least weekly about the people that God has placed in the path of our families. There are many people that will cross our paths and it is a very nice reminder how important we are to show the world around us what the love of our Lord looks like. It can be an easy thing to forget sometimes.
Heritage Builders will meet again March 9th at 5pm.

Sarah Karadimos

AUGUST VOICE

Pastor's Ponderings


Seventeen years ago, the members of First Baptist Church sponsored first one and then two more families from Ukraine. The Tolokovoys came to us as a family of a mother, father, and nine children. Dan & Janice Joner were so gracious to house them when they first came. Al Olson and many others worked hard to help them with transportation, housing, schooling, social security, welfare appointments, etc. In time they settled in and became a part of American life. They naturally gravitated to the Russian community in Portland, but continued to have contact with our church.

Aleksandr, the father came to the US with some pretty severe medical problems. For seventeen years he was able to fight them off. But on July 4, 2007 he lost the battle. How ironic that a man who escaped from the oppression of the Soviet Union was liberated from a body that no longer served him well on Independence Day.

Mary Lee and I were honored to attend his funeral on July 8. The church in Portland was packed to the walls with people from the Soviet Union. For 2 hours the ministers and others shared how Aleksandr had impacted their lives. According to one of the pastors when he left Ukraine, Aleksandr took the reins of the church and served as its pastor. Another woman related that she was able to come to the US because of the support and encouragement of the Tolokovoys and Aleksandr in particular.

We had little idea of the far reaching effects of our willingness to take in people from another culture and help them integrate into the American culture. Christ is so impressive in his workings. Who knows where an act of kindness may eventually lead?
Mat 25:31 "When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.
Mat 25:32 "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.
Mat 25:33 "And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
Mat 25:34 "Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
Mat 25:35 'for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;
Mat 25:36 'I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'
Mat 25:37 "Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?
Mat 25:38 'When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
Mat 25:39 'Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?'
Mat 25:40 "And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'

Could I suggest that the same is true of the Tuesday Market? It is a great place to do even the smallest and simplest acts of kindness that may resound to the glory of God in the future. God has given me the opportunity every week to talk to someone. On a couple of occasions I have been able to have a really heart-to-heart conversation with someone. At other times I have had opportunity to build relationships with people. It has been a very encouraging experience.

Please consider how God might use you in this ministry for the rest of the summer.
Pastor Jerry


Caring & Sharing
Dear Church Family
Thank you for the lovely pot of flowers you gave us, as well as the cards of sympathy. It is always a sad time when lose a loved one, but having a church family like you is a blessing that gives comfort to us.Love in Christ, Bill & Patti Zielsdorff

Dear Friends at First Baptist
We want to thank you so much for the cards, flowers, calls and meals after Oleta's recent surgery. She is recovering well but has months of physical therapy in front of her.John and Oleta Sailors

Quilts & More
Once again we were pleased to be able to deliver quilts to Tuality Hospital. Our Wednesday "Quilted Sisters" carried in 30 baby quilts and 15 larger quilts for breast cancer patients.

Amy Kaiser, who is Tuality's breast health coordinator, was there to greet us, along with many other ladies who themselves work with the babies. One of the gals told us about a young couple who were leaving the hospital with their newborn, and the mom asked if she could take the quilt with her. Seeing that they had nothing for the baby at that point, they said absolutely yes. The dad had tears in his eyes realizing it was being given to them for their precious baby. As they had over 1,400 births last year, our few are at least helping out the families who really don't have anything for their new one.

Praise God that we can provide a little something for them. If you'd still like to join us, please call me any time to find out more details. We have some who sew, and some who come to tie or iron. You don't have to know how to quilt or even sew. We still meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday every month, even through the summer. We do have a few field trips, so be sure to call if you're thinking of joining us.

We have several of our new ladies asking questions about our faith, and many of the questions are very specific. We've been asked how we accepted Christ, why we have such peace in our lives, and many other thought provoking questions. Please pray for their souls, praising God for their willingness to take time to help us.

Thank you for all your encouragements along the way,
Your Quilted SistersMary, Susan, Patty, Ruby, Merlene, Cheryl, Jean, Marilyn, Sine, and Elsie (and others from time to time)Elsie Clausen 503-647-5177

Congratulations
Bill & Yinan Brassfield were married on July 7. Yinan has just recently come to the U.S. from China. Bill is a software engineering contractor. Make sure to congratulate them and make them feel at home.

Adult Sunday School Class
During the month of August we give our regular teachers a breather and bring the classes together for some special teaching. This summer we are going to touch on some of the challenges that face us as Christians in a world that is not Christian. How do we maintain our faith and our testimony in a world that doesn*t necessarily share our values? Below are listed the topic we will be covering, using a variety of speakers. We are not intending to solve the world's problems. But we are trying to discover how to respond as a Christian.
August 5 -- Global Warming & Christian Responsibility Jerry Propst
August 12 -- Being A Christian In The Workplace - Fred Johnson & Ron Duckworth
August 19 -- The Ethics of Stem Cell Research - Glenn Hoerr (Pastor from Harvest Community Church)
August 26 -- Immigration & Christian Responsibility - Senator Charles Starr
September 2 -- Church: Community or Congregation? - Mark Colligan

Hispanic Church
God is Great. It is a joy and a privilege to serve Him. Our church has been doing great. He has blessed us very much.We as a church celebrated our 21st ANNIVERSARY in March. We had a guest speaker and special music for the last weekend of March.After that, we took advantage of several special occasions to reach out to our friends.

For example, on Thursday, May 10th, we celebrated Mother's Day with an evening service and dinner. The men organized a wonderful service. They enjoyed doing the cooking for the ladies. Over 200 people came. We preached the Word, worshiped the Lord and thanked Him for our dear mothers. God touched people's hearts. On Father's Day, Sunday June 17th the ladies organized the service. We had more people than we were expecting. More than 250 people showed up, including children. I invited a friend that I have been praying for. He came along with his wife and his two little boys. Let us pray for his salvation. His name is Leonardo.

June, what a busy month! On the last week we had our VBS. We made an effort to extend the invitation to children that do not attend any church. Pastor Owen from Timberlake Church, in Redmond Washington, has been doing the VBS for several years. Instead of taking his group to Mexico, they come to Hillsboro to do missionary work among the Hispanic children and the migrant workers. I praise the Lord for their commitment. This year the youth pastor, Steve, from Cleveland, Washington, with some of his members and Pastor Mark Colligan and his group, joined pastor Owen to do the VBS. We picked children up in Beaverton, Aloha, Cornelius, Forest Grove and Hillsboro.

Once again, Pastor Owen sent the fifth and sixth grade to my place under Pastor Steve's, guidance. Five children received Jesus as their Savior. During the evenings we went to the Migrant camps to preach the Gospel. I praise the Lord for the sixteen people that made profession of faith. In one of the camps I found a man who received Jesus last year. He said that his life was a mess, but since he received Jesus and started reading the Bible, his life has changed. He is not drinking alcohol any more and he is taking care of his family. Because these people are in the area for only a couple of months, it makes it harder to follow them up. We just trust that the Lord will continue working in their lives.

On July 7th, the ladies had their annual ladies Conference in Gladstone, Or. This was a good time to have fellowship and encouragement among the ladies from different churches.

On July 21, we had a special activity for children, at my home. Some ladies will sell pupusas (Salvadorean food) to raise some money for the children ministry.

My wife Graciela, and the ladies ministry coordinators from our church will be assisting the new church in Newport to have their first Ladies Conference in September.

We are planning our family camp for August 17th and 18th. We are praying for and we are expecting at least 100 people.

Praise the Lord for the ministry in the city of Cornelius, which is only ten minutes from our church in Hillsboro. On August 4th I will have the privilege of preaching during the installation service for the first pastor. We were praying for the servant of the Lord who will lead the church to grow. One of the members, that was with them since the very beginning and used to attend our church in Hillsboro, has accepted the nomination. Pray for him as he will start his ministry as a pastor. His name is Jose Bardales. He and his wife, Blanca Bardales, have two boys. One is seven years old and the other is only three months old. He is taking this ministry a part time basis, because he works full time for the Forest Grove, Post Office.

Humberto Iboy one of our first members in our church, moved to Corvallis, two hours South of Hillsboro, for work. The Lord is using him in a new church that is starting in Albany, very close to Corvallis.

Our mission in Portland is still looking for a Pastor. The former pastor had to go back to Peru, his home country, because Immigration did not extend his visa. Pray for Mario and Betty Gonzalez, who were members in our church in Hillsboro, as they try to help the church in this time of transition.*We praise the Lord for our weekly broadcast. We are pleased when people tell us that our program is a blessing to them.

Finally, I appreciate your prayers on behalf of my wife. She went to Venezuela to visit a physician in January. On February 24th, she had surgery. Part of her colon was removed. She had two tumors. Praise the Lord the doctor did not find any cancer. In March I traveled to Venezuela to bring her back. The trip back to Oregon was very painful for her, but praise the Lord, she has recovered. For more than six months, she could eat almost nothing, but now her digestive system is functioning excellently. She still has fibromyalgia; but with the Lord's blessing and as an answer to your prayers, she is handling it very well. Some days she has too much pain, but most of the time she is very active.May the Lord bless youPastor Hector

CB Northwest Men's Roundup
September 7-9
Camp Tadmor
Theme: *God as author and director of your life*
Speaker: Donald Miller, author of Blue Like Jazz
Special Guest: John MacMurrayDon & John are co-authors of : To Own a Dragon
It is the true story of a young man*s personal journey of coming to terms with growing up without a father. It begins when Don moves in with the MacMurrays and is exposed to a family with a committed father. For Dads and those who never had one, To Own a Dragon is at once both challenging and a healing balm to read.
Music: *Warren Barfield
Comedy: *Bob Smiley*

If you are interested in going, you can pick up a registration form from the church office, or check with Steve Wood.
Registration before August 17th costs $90, meals included.
Registration after August 17th costs $100. meals included
Registration without meals costs $60

SPECIAL THANKS
Pastor Jerry, Marry Lee, and friends at First Baptist,
Thank you so much for the extra gift you sent last month! We will apply it to the airline tickets we bought so we could return to attend Stacie's graduation from Seattle Psacific. I remember years ago when Pastor Jerry encouraged me (Beckie) to attend Seattle Pacific and now it has become a tradition in our family. David and Stacie have both attended there as well. Daniel will be a sophomore there this fall.
We look forward to seeing you all next spring when we will be coming back for home assignment.
In Him, Dwight, Beckie, & Malia JohnsonMissionaries to Taiwan

CHRISTIANS IN THE CORPORATE WORLD
The following article was in Columbia Community Bank's letter to clients. It features Fred Johnson in its summer issue. Thought you might enjoy it.

"Fred Johnson, Columbia Community Bank's executive vice-president and chief credit officer, celebrates 30 years in banking this September. He began fresh out of college with First Interstate Bank (now Wells Fargo), where he continued for 21 year before joining Columbia Community Bank. He was onboard with CCB 'since day one,; working among the four-person team that opened the bank in 1999. Asked why he made the move to CCB, fred said, "It was a real opportunity to return to the roots of commercial banking.l..providing personal, face-face service to clients I know, in t he community where I began."

Today, Fred oversees the lending arm of Columbia Community Bank, a department that includes approximately 20 people In the early days, however, Fred was the loan approval department. "I took applications, reviewed financial performance, mad the loan decision and prepare the documents,' he said with grin.
Fred is a life-long Oregonian. He and his wife, Letha, were married the same week Fred started his banking career, and they have three grown children scattered throughout the states and abroad. He is actively involved in the Hillsboro Community Foundation, Hillsboro Rotary Club, Community Action Organization, and First Baptist Church. He also enjoys musician interest he pursues by playing and conducting."

Fred currently serves on our Board of Overseers, working in cooperation with James Cameron in the area of Worship.

COMING THIS FALL!!!

WOMEN'S RETREAT - This is the time to mark your calendar for this fall. Women's retreat will have a new look and a new place. Insteard of October, the retreat will be held in November. the dates are November 9-11. Watch for more details.

CHOIR RETURNS -- Beginning in September, James will be starting up the choir again. We are looking forward not only to singing for church services from time to time, but also preparing music for a special Christmas presentation. Come join us. We'd love to have more people participate.

HARVEST PARTY -- October 31 there will be a harvest party for kids and grown-up kids. Food, games, etc.

HERITAGE BUILDERS --Yes, Heritage Builders will be starting back up after a summer break. So, if you have children 18 and under and still at home, come join us as we work together on strengthening our relationships within families.

MAY VOICE 2007

Pastor Propst's Ponderings


There is a lady in scripture who breaks all the stereotypes of what it means to be a mother.
We don't know much about her family. We know that she was married and that she had children. But her claim to fame was two-fold. She was a prophetess. In other words she spoke for God. God used her to communicate with the people of Israel from time to time.*She held court outside under a palm tree. The people of Israel came to her for counsel and for decisions about matters. She was an Old Testament version of Judge Judy with just a tad more spiritual insight than the honorable Judge Judy usually delivers.

If people had a question about God, they came to her. If they had a dispute with a neighbor, they came to her men and women alike. She, along with one of Israel's generals was successful in delivering the country from the murderous hand of Jabin, one of the kings of Canaan. In fact the general refused to go to war against the enemy unless she accompanied him. So she did. And they won a decisive victory that day. The woman? You know her as Deborah.

Here was a woman of spiritual acumen. She could decipher and judge matters of great importance between people. She had an ear for the voice of God. She was not afraid to do whatever the Lord required of her. She served in a sense as commander-in-chief of the Jewish army while General Barak served as commander in the field. She was bold enough to speak out and even to chide Barak for his timid ways. She was as fierce as she could be when it came to dealing with the enemies of God.

Never let it be suggested that women in the Old Testament were quiet, shy, and retiring. Many of them were women, strong of purpose and bold enough to do whatever God expected of them. I'm certain that when she needed to be she could be as tender as any mother. But it is possible to be mentally tough and maternally tender at the same time. Strength of character is a trait that all women should possess whether they are mothers or not. But if we are to guide our children in the ways of God, we all need to have a strong character and a well-developed commitment to truth and honor.
Happy Mother's Day
Pastor Jerry

WHAT ABOUT VIRGINIA TECH?
I don't think any of us can fully fathom the tragedy that took place on that campus on April 16. Perhaps one of the helpful things was what our president said when asked about whether this should prompt us to think about stricter gun control laws. He said that now is the time for healing for hurting people and that there will be plenty of time later to discuss those things. I agree. Too much commentary, finger pointing, and speculation detracts from the real need of the hour -- compassion and understanding for those who have been left behind. Fellow students, school officials, parents, brothers and sisters, loved ones, all are immersed in a sea of emotions that swing first one way and then another. Even though by the time you read this the rush of news will have passed, the need for compassion and understanding is just as real now as it was the day after the shootings. Continue praying that God will send people into the lives of the survivors who can be the most help and encouragement to them.

CONGRATULATIONS




The Finns are parents again. Bethany Rose was born Thursday, April 12 at 4:07 p.m.





FAREWELLS
Muriel Wood - (April 9) - age 89. From 1959 to 1964 Russell Wood served as pastor of First Baptist Church. This was a time of significant growth in the church with many new members being added. It was also the time when the CE building was built. Muriel, his wife, served as church secretary and as one of the adult Sunday School teachers. She was known for her gracious spirit and for her attention to detail. Together she and Russell served our church family well. The Lord was pleased to take her home to be with Him in April. We appreciate the legacy she and Russ left behind.

“I WEAR HER PEARLS ON MOTHER’S DAY”

“Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The LORD do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me.” Ruth 1:16-17.

This passage is quite often misunderstood as being spoken between a man and wife. But, as the book of Ruth bears out, it is the love story of a mother- and daughter-in-law. Naomi and Ruth are beautiful examples of loyalty, friendship, and commitment – to God and to each other. For almost 32 years I had the honor of being the daughter-in-law to Kay Stover. Ours was a relationship built upon the firm foundation and the shared experience of loving a Stover man. She taught me volumes about not only loving her son, but lessons about the grace of God that can only be passed down from one generation to the next. Lessons that I will one day teach my son’s wife and will do so with a fondness in remembrance of a woman that stood in a league of her own. She was definitely my Naomi and I her Ruth.

Kay Janet Stover was born May 26, 1936. I was born April 10, 1957 and married her third son, Douglas Edward on August 28, 1976. She was so happy on our wedding day. I remember looking over at her as I walked up the isle and she was clapping and smiling from ear to ear. My Mom, to the contrary, was crying and looking forlorn as she was losing her eldest of five children. My Mom couldn’t envision her life without me there on a daily basis and my Mother-in-law was embracing the very same feelings. She couldn’t envision her or her son’s life without me in it too, and she would teach me lesson upon lesson on the meaning of true love.
Kay Stover eloped with her high school sweetheart when she was 15 years of age. She came back Mrs. Robert Stover and didn’t look back for one single moment. Their families were sufficiently shocked and Grandma Stover even thought she could have their wedding annulled, bringing her son back into the fold. Grandma& Grandad Lewis, on the other hand, had the presence of mind to accept their new son-in-law as their own and to see their daughter as his wife. After all, regardless of their youth, they were married, had consummated their marriage, were man and wife in the eyes of God and she was now a Stover. Delbert & Anne Lewis knew the Lord and knew that the road that their daughter walked was, indeed, one that they could only view from afar. They had acquired a son-in-law over the weekend and Kay began her journey that would affect the lives of many.

When I became a Stover in August of 1976, I knew very little about being either a wife or a Stover. These are lessons that I would learn as God molded me into the woman that He wanted me to be. These are lessons that could only be learned as I sat at the feet of my mother-in-law and truly listened to what she was saying. I watched her live her daily life in communion with God and her husband. I did indeed, take her people on as my people, and have embraced all things Stover since Day 1. As I stepped away from my family and cleaved onto my husband and his, I would begin a journey that would be a love story chosen for me in my mother’s womb.
This past January 28th Mom went home to be with the Lord after years of living with numerous diseases and frailties. It was during these years that I learned the most about Mom and the journey that God had us walking together. For the last 10 years of Mom’s life we had the honor of having her and Dad live here on our property with us. These have truly been anointed years as God continued to bless our lives, marriages, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and used saw His will accomplished in our lives. On the afternoon of January 28th upon entering Mom’s room at St. Vincent’s Hospital I saw my husband, her third-born giving his Mama lovin’. When he was done I asked him to leave the room for a moment and let me talk with Mom alone. As I held Mom I reiterated to her the commitment I’d made to her over 31 years ago. “Where you go, I will go. Where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people and you God, my God.” I went on to give her the reassurances that only a Ruth can give to her Naomi. Within five minutes of my sharing precious moments with Mom, I called Doug back into the room and she looked at both of us, shed a tear and slipped, graciously and tenderly, into the presence of our Lord.

Each morning I still arise and look out my windows for her. One of my favorite sights to see here on our homestead was Mom & Dad walking up the driveway hand in hand. I still stand in my bedroom and my eyes still look for her to be weeding or planting her flowers. My heart, body and soul still yearn for the lessons that only she could teach me. I hunger for her presence and find my only peace and solace to be found in knowing where she now resides. Peace and perseverance are also found in the 31 years of lessons taught to me so lovingly. This Easter must have been one for the text books in Heaven as their choir was joined by one of our Father’s truly Beloved.

As I await the next chapter in this story, it is with great honor that I reflect on the story of Naomi and Ruth this Mother’s Day. It is with great honor that our children and grandchildren will reflect on the story of Kay and Dawn. We are two women who loved one another and their husbands to the end. So, when you see me in church this Mother’s Day sporting some pretty pearls, think of our Kay Janet and join me in giving thanks for generational love. Turn to your daughter- or mother-in-law and seek God’s will for your own love story found in a shared last name.
I miss you Mom – Happy Mother’s Day!


Missionary Corner
Dave & Catherine Love
March 2007
Dear Friends, Six weeks ago we stood at the southernmost tip of Gibraltar and peered across the water to catch a glimpse of the mountains of N. Africa. Through the fog that hovered over the Mediterranean Sea we could faintly see the silhouette of the mountain range. Turning back toward the north we could see the Rock of Gibraltar in all of its glory. Between us and this amazing monolith was another striking monument.

This monument was man-made and reminded us of why we are here in Europe. The place of worship pictured here reminds us that there is a great diversity of people and religions here in Europe and that millions of unsaved people still need to hear the Good News.*During our trip to Spain we were also reminded that short-term workers, supporting long-term personnel, can have a significant impact in reaching the people that call Europe home. For example, friends of ours who are working to reach N. Africans realized that up to one million Europeans' travel back "home" to visit N. Africa every year. Our friends have excellent resources for sharing the love of Christ with these people but the task of making contact with them is monumental. Recently our friends were given 8,000 copies of the Jesus DVD and 8,000 N.T's for distribution. There is no way they could distribute all of these resources by themselves; however, with the assistance of four short-term teams this summer at least 8,000 people and their families will have the Truth in their hands. In 2008 they hope to host six to eight teams that will assist them in making contact with even more of these travelers.

Coming Events

May 6 Heritage builders
May 12 Wedding - Margie Helms & Daniel Novak
May 13 Mother*s Day
May 22 Cruz Baby Shower
May 26 -- Ladies spring tea
May 27 Memorial Day Sunday

SPOTLIGHT ON ISRAEL
A fire breaks out in your electric box and flames start licking their way towards your backyard gas grill. You race for the phone and call the emergency number posted on the refrigerator, your heart pounding furiously. Never again will you take emergency services for granted.

The city of Neve Zuf was founded in 1977, one of the first communities to be established in Samaria. There are over 200 families living in Neve Zuf today, with more on the way. Neve Zuf*s members are active in all areas of public life. It boasts well-developed social, religious and community infrastructure.

But travel to and from Neve Zuf is quite hazardous. Often roads are closed, isolating the community even further. This puts a burden on the community's regional medical emergency teams and firefighters. Shooting incidents are common on the main road. Local emergency medical care is a vital service that cannot be compromised. New, up-to-date equipment is needed for their Rapid Response Emergency Rescue Team and for their Fire Rescue Squad. These brave pioneers of Neve Zuf are not going anywhere. They want to stay right where they are, building for future generations. They need help in continuing this life-saving community service.

PARISH NURSING

Stay Healthy Strategies

There is no cure for a cold or flu. Rest and treat your symptoms while your body fights off the virus. Good hygiene habits are essential to protect yourself from getting and spreading viruses.

Keep In Mind The Following

Wash your hands. Viruses can survive for hours; the more often you wash your hands the less likely you are to get sick. Cover your cough. If you don*t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hand. Don't touch your face. Germs spread when you touch your eyes, nose or mouth.

Practice healthy habits. Eat right, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest and exercise. Stay home when you are sick.

PODCAST

If you missed a morning service and would like to hear the message, you can do one of three things.
1) You can ask for a tape of the service. That may take a week for us to provide.
2) You can ask for a CD of the service in either audio or mp3 format. In audio format you will get part of the service and all of the message. In mp3 format you will get all of the service including the message.
3) Or you can go online and listen to or download the message. The simplest way to go online is to access the church website which is http://www.hfbch.org/ and then click on *podcast.* Follow the directions and enjoy.

WEBSITE
Just a reminder to check our website at hfbch.org for updates and access to pictures, links to other helpful sites, etc.

LISTENING THROUGH THE NEW TESTAMENT

Many in our congregation just completed listening through the New Testament in 40 days. As a result of our special offering we were able to send over $600 to further this work in other countries. Below is news from Ghana about the work there.

Faith from the Field:
Testimonies from the Konkomba of Ghana
In 2006, Faith Comes By Hearing colporteurs (sellers of religious books) in Ghana started 774 Audio Bible listening groups in villages and communities where Konkomba is spoken. Listeners explain in their own words that - through hearing - their lives have changed. David from Kponkong: "When my pastor told me that I should not commit adultery or be drunk, I did not believe him. But through listening to the Audio Bible, I heard all about drinking - which is bad. So I believe it and stopped drinking." Mr. Kwame from the Kponkong Baptist Church: "I heard from the Faith Comes By Hearing in my mother tongue which spoke against [idolatry]. FCBH has helped me to stop worshipping idols and now I have put my trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I have vowed never to repeat such things again." Mr. Wassah from Bachado explained that through the Audio Bible listening program, his community was able to organize members to form a church. The community had a church building before, but it collapsed. Since then, it was difficult to bring the people together to worship - until FCBH was introduced. Now many people have accepted the Lord and joined to establish a church!

To our Precious and Dear Church family
We thought we understood love before, but after this weekend at the reception and the Sunday Service the eyes of our hearts were overwhelmed with the new fresh expressions of love that are experienced once in a lifetime. Your gifts, your words, your tears, your hugs touched our souls and left a wonderful mark that shall never vanish. It has been the delight of our lives to be with you and to serve with you in advancing the Kingdom of Christ. Each of you are precious in the eyes of the Lord and likewise to Merrilee and me. This is not goodbye for ever! We will be back often to escape the sweltering heat and to see you again. It will be a treat to have you visit us also. Thank you for a wonderful 27 years and for a wonderful weekend. We will cherish the beautiful myrtle wood clock and when we look at the time, our thoughts will be drawn back to our brothers and sisters at Hillsboro First Baptist Church.
Frank and Merrilee Carpenter


To My Church Family,
I have been cooking for Heritage Builders for the last eighteen months. It has allowed me to serve the young families in our church as I witness them grow in our Lord. I come from a fairly large family of six kids. When I was a child we always had our evening meals around a large table in the kitchen. My mom was a great cook and our meals were made from scratch. Mom didn't even know what a box cake was. I can remember growing up thinking how great this time with my family was. I could not understand why my friends' families didn't do this.

When Pastor Mark came to me and shared his idea for Heritage Builders I was thrilled that he was going to incorporate into this ministry the family meal. He had already asked Scott Straub to do the cooking so I offered to help Scott. As things changed and Scott couldn't continue I knew this was where God wanted me. I believe with all my heart that Pastor Mark is on the right track. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this wonderful ministry. I would like to say thank you to my crew: First my John, without his support and understanding I would be unable to continue. Mary Lee Propst, what a joy it is to serve with you. Marsha Matthews, I miss you. Chuck & Eileen Campbell, always there ready to jump in and help. Roger & Kathy Livingston, Roger is my taste tester he always gets the first bite! Kathy, you are such a hard worker and a true blessing to know. Troy Clubb, always a smile and a helping hand. For the last few months Bailey Babcock and Genny Gregory have been so eager to learn and help. These are the people that make sure everything comes together and is on the table by 5:15P.M. You are the best crew I could hope for. Thank you so very much for all your help and encouragement.

Our All Church Family Campout is June 15th - 17th. I am really looking forward to the chance to cook for the rest of our Church Family. This is going to be a great time of getting to know one another better as we worship, play, eat and spend a wonderful weekend together. Please pick up your registration slip from the table in the foyer and join us. Yours in Christ, Shirley Mickelson

WOMEN'S ACTIVITIES

CBNW WOMEN'S CAMP AT CAMP TADMOR
July 20-22, 2007
Another opportunity for you ladies who enjoy a mid-summer camping experience is the annual Women*s Camp at Tadmor. We would love to see a good group attend this year. You have the choice of bringing your own RV or tent or staying in one of Tadmor's cabins. The speaker this year, Robin Jones Gunn is a favorite author and speaker. Brochures are available in the church foyer. Contact Mary Lee Propst at 503-648-6272 with any questions.

LADIES' FALL RETREAT
November 9-11 Ladies, mark your calendars now for our annual retreat. We are pleased to announce that we have a new location for our retreat this year. We will be going to Christian Renewal Center in Silverton, Oregon. It is in a very picturesque setting located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains adjacent to Oregon's beautiful Silver Falls State Park. For those of you who have internet access, you can get a good look at the retreat center online at http://www.christianrenewalcenter.org/. We hope you will be able to join us this year as we spend some quality time away together for this weekend in November. More details to follow. Anyone desiring to assist in planning this retreat may contact Janice Connell at Janice.Connell@vwcredit.com or at 503-844-9653.

APRIL 2007 VOICE

Pastor Propst's Ponderings
Do you ever wonder if your prayers have any impact?

Recently I was with a group of pastors up at Skamania lodge for a CB Northwest Board meeting. Our chairman asked that we pray for the wife of Pastor Bob Zachary. Bob passed away from leukemia a few months ago.

Apparently his wife is having a difficult time dealing with Bob's death. So we took time to pray for her. About a week later I met with a group of pastors in Hillsboro to spend some time praying. Pastor Rich Jones was relating how he had been up at OHSU visiting his mother, Vivian, who is dying. While he was there another pastor from our area dropped in to talk to him and pray with him.

After that pastor left, a woman came up to Rich and asked if the pastor was Baptist and if so, was he Southern Baptist or Conservative Baptist? Rich told her he was Southern Baptist. The woman related that her husband had been a Conservative Baptist pastor. Come to find out, it was the widow of Bob Zachary.

There in the hospital that day, God answered our prayer by bringing counseling, encouragement, and prayer to her through another pastor. It was such an encouragement to me to see how the Lord was answering our prayer without our knowledge.

How many other times does that happen but we don*t get the feedback? Never get discouraged over what seems to you to be unanswered prayer.

God is under no obligation to answer according to our timetable. It may be that long after we have forgotten about it; our prayer is still having its impact as God continues working in the life of someone for whom we have prayed.

I think that in eternity we will be so surprised at the way in which even our most feeble prayers have had profound influence on someone. We are so dialed into the instant gratification philosophy, that if we don't see the answer to our prayer in a short time, we assume that nothing has happened.

I am reminded of the people who patiently prayed day after day for years in the temple in anticipation of the coming of Messiah. Simeon said it best upon seeing the baby Jesus. Luke 2:29 "Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word;Luke 2:30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation".

I wonder how many other people had prayed and gone off not really expecting their prayers to be answered. Luke tells us that "men always ought to pray and not lose heart."

Now I must admit that sometimes intercessory prayer is not a very glamorous pursuit. It takes time. You find yourself carrying burdens other than your own. You do not see instant response. And you can't hear angels singing in the background. Still, God has promised that those who will devote themselves to this discipline will receive great reward, in time. No, make that in eternity.
Pastor Jerry

New In The Library
Here is some fresh reading material for your enjoyment. Drop by the library and check it out.

Safely Home By Randy Alcorn
Irresistible Revolution By Shane Claiborne
Southern Storm By Terri Blackstock

We also have about 5000 other books for you to peruse. Come, see.

Caring and Sharing
Dear Church Family
We both want to thank each one who has prayed for us this year of 2007. Ron is on the road to real recovery and healing well.

Thank you, Pastor Jerry, Pastor Frank for coming to see Ron when he was in the hospital. That was so encouraging for both Ron and I. God has been good and faithful through all of this and has met all of our needs.

Thank you all who sent cards to Ron in the hospital and at our home.
Betty & Ron Berg


Dear Women,
Thank you for the beautiful cuddly blanket. Everyone comments on it and I love to show it off. Grant also likes to snuggle in it. We appreciate your generosity and your love of Christ. Keep spreading the joy.
Katherine & Family

Easter Celebration

It looks like some good things are coming together for Easter weekend.
At 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 6, James has scheduled a String quartet and the choir to provide music appropriate to the occasion. We will have communion and some other very meaningful segments to the service.

From 8:00 * 9:30 a.m. on Easter Sunday morning we will be serving breakfast in the Fellowship Hall and, in the parking lot.

At 10:00 a.m. we will be celebrating the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The theme will be, Ready For Resurrection. James has scheduled flute, saxophone, trumpet, and trombone as well as the choir for a great time of celebration. Bring your friends and family.

Missionary Corner
Dwight & Beckie Johnson
Morrison Academy -- Taiwan

"Just tell the girls how guys think."
With those instructions Dwight presents in Morrison*s "Women of Worth" high school Bible class each semester on the topic of how men and women are different.

One primary resource is "For Young Women Only: What you need to Know About How Guys Think" by Shaunti Feldhahn.

Later this semester he will be presenting to the seniors on the positive and negative influences of the Internet. Beckie watches 8-month old Julian a couple of days each week for a friend and works in the school health clinic every Wednesday. Thursday mornings she hosts "Moms in Touch" in our home to pray for our school, including staff and students. She also serves on the school's faculty housing design committee as we begin building a new staff apartment building.

Malia is loving school but is also looking forward to being home (stateside) this summer to see Stacie (big sister) graduate from SPU and to see family and friends. She has become an avid reader and continues to improve with her viola and school subjects. Horses remain her first love. She keeps life fun!

Coming Events
April
1 Palm Sunday
5 Scrapbooking
6 Good Friday Service
8 Easter Breakfast & Celebration service
15 Heritage Builders
17 Scrapbooking
22 Frank Carpenter Speaks
27 Kids' Drive-In Theater Nite

Frank Carpenter's New Position
As most of you now know, the man we have lovingly called "Pastor Frank" for over twenty five years is saying goodbye to Oregon and moving to Arizona.

He has taken a position with Center for Arizona Policy, an organization with ties to Focus on the Family. CAP seeks to bring a strong moral influence to the public life of the state of Arizona, much in the same way that Faith and Freedom Foundation is attempting to do here in the Northwest.

Frank will be working to develop prayer ministries among churches in Arizona, working with pastors and other religious leaders. He will be involved in the day to day operations of CAP and will be spending less time at the state capital in Arizona than he has in Oregon.

The political climate in Arizona is far more open to the kind of ministry that Frank will be involved in than is true here in Oregon.

Although we are disappointed to see him make this move, we understand and wish the very best for him.

Frank will be speaking on Sunday morning April 22nd and will be moving to Arizona some time in late May.

Please keep them in your prayers as they make this momentous transition.

SB2, What Does It Mean?
On Wednesday, March 21, the Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 2. Now, most of the time, we wouldn*t devote space to a piece of legislation. But this law does have significant consequences for the church.

The bill provides homosexuals unique protection under the law as a special class. The law ostensibly provides them with further protection against discrimination in employment, housing, etc. The bill as it reads before going to the House for a vote does provide exemption for churches. But here are the concerns.

First, it gives no exemption for individuals who may have strong religious convictions. So a private party who would object to having two homosexuals cohabit in a rental he or she owned has no exemption.

Second, any operations run by a religious organization that are not central to their primary religious mission would not be exempt. So, a coffee house, bookstore, or other venture could come under scrutiny, depending on the circumstances.

Third, only bona fide religious organizations are exempt. But the bill does not define what "bona fide" means. According to testimony on the floor of the senate, legislators are relying on other government agencies to define "bona fide." But most of those define the term on the basis of administrative rules. For instance, if I understand the process correctly, the IRS can define a non-profit most any way it wishes without relying on legislation to do so. A change in administrative rule could change the criteria for what constitutes a non-profit organization. So, "bona fide" could be changed so as to require the church or religious institution to declare homosexuality a valid lifestyle or lose their tax exempt status. Those that did not would no longer be bona fide and so would no longer be exempt under SB2. That may be an extreme example; maybe not.

The point is, any definition based on administrative rule rather than on statute can be changed with little review and even less notice.

Furthermore it is not certain how para-church religious organizations such as Luis Palau Evangelistic Association or Pregnancy Resource Centers would be affected by this law.

Some are also concerned that this possibly opens the door for a flood of lawsuits. When someone is fired with cause they could claim that they were fired because of their sexual preference, thus leading to a further clogging of the legal system with litigation.

Lastly, Senator Bruce Starr stated that this bill is a solution looking for a problem. I tend to agree. Section 1 of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution affords to all equal protection under the law.

Having said all that, I must reiterate that although certain sexual behaviors and lifestyles are condemned by Scripture, every man or woman who has not received Christ is to be treated with respect. Although the consequences of alcoholism, prostitution, drugs, promiscuity, theft, sexual perversion etc. are more obvious and abhorrent, sin is still sin in the eyes of God no matter how respectable the individual. Christians have no right to discriminate in sharing the love of Christ or in preaching the gospel.

Cherishing the Church Family
Call one of the flock once a week. Send a card to a church member once a week.Make enough dinner one night a week to take a helping to someone alone. Choose someone who lives close. That makes it easier. Have your kids help deliver. Letting them see smiles for serving starts a life-long idea. We all have microwaves so you could deliver it the next day.
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