First B Voice

September 2008

2008-09-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

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

VOICE MARCH 2008

2008-03-01T09:14:00.000-08:00

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

2007-08-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

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

2007-05-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

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

2007-03-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

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.
Anonymous

March 2007

2007-03-02T08:38:00.000-08:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings

By the time you get this in the mail many of you will probably already have heard what I am writing. It was announced on Sunday February 18 at the end of the morning service.
For those of you who were not able to be with us Sunday the 17th, this is the text of the statement that I read at that time to the congregation:
In JRR Tolkien's "Fellowship of the Ring," Bilbo Baggins gathers his relatives for his one hundred and eleventh birthday. Having addressed them all he suddenly vanishes before their very eyes, never to be seen in Hobbiton again.

I am not one hundred and eleven years old and I am not planning on vanishing before your very eyes. If I do, it probably means you have missed the rapture.

But it is no secret that I am not as young as I used to be and it is natural that people would be speculating about when I plan to retire. Some of you have asked me directly and that is perfectly understandable. We all need to prepare for tomorrow before it becomes today.
I just want you to know that with my blessing and encouragement the Board of Overseers has already begun discussing the matter of my retirement and what to do in preparation for that eventuality. We have not agreed on any dates.

Because of the changes that my retirement will bring it is important that we prepare ourselves to face the future wisely. This will require evaluation of whom we are, where we are headed, what we need in order to get there and what the community we seek to reach will look like then. We cannot realistically begin considering whom we might call until these questions have been answered. This process cannot be done effectively in a few weeks or even a few short months. It will take time.

Because we want you to be involved in the process we will be keeping you informed on what we are doing and at the proper times we will be asking for your assistance. Rest assured that in the end you will be a vital part of setting the course for the future.

I want to stress that this not an announcement of my retirement. It is to make certain that you are kept abreast of where we are and to assure you that you will play an important role in the process. This can be a stressful time, but it can be a very fruitful time as well. We ask for your prayers for the board, your patience with one another and your participation in seeking God*s will for the future. By faith in God and strong commitment to one another we can arrive at our destination stronger than when we began.

If you have questions please direct them to me or to our Moderator, Ron Duckworth. We have begun mapping out a strategy and are already gathering information that will help us make this transition as painless as possible.
Please remember that at this point we are not prepared to entertain names or suggestions regarding who might be the next pastor. When the time for that comes we will follow appropriate procedures for examining, interviewing and calling whomever we as a congregation are convinced is God's choice for leading our church family.

I cannot stress strongly enough my appreciation for the privilege of serving you over the last 37 years and look forward to whatever contribution the Lord will allow me to make in the years to come.
Mary Lee and I love you all. We wish the very best for this, our family. God bless you all.

Pastor Jerry

Gone But Not Forgotten
Bob Charter passed away Friday January 28. Bob had been a long time member of First Baptist Church before moving to East Portland. He was 90 years old.

Celia DeRock passed away on Saturday February 20. Celia was the wife of police chief Melvin DeRock who passed away in 1977.

Sean Steinhauer -- some of you who have been here for a long time may remember Mark & Linda Steinhauer. Their son Sean recently died of complications from diabetes at age 30.

NOTES FROM PASTOR HECTOR RODRIGUEZ
Dear Pastor Jerry
There are not enough words to express how grateful I am for your spiritual support. I count on you. I pray that the Lord will continue pouring His blessings upon you.

I thank the Lord for His kindness. He is good to us and He is faithful. I am glad that I can serve Him by teaching and preaching His holy Word. It is a blessing to team up with First Baptist Church to reach out to the lost and make disciples for our Lord Jesus Christ.
I am very thankful for a year full of blessings. We finished the year 2006 with two great services. On December 24, we had our Christmas Eve service, to celebrate the birthday of our dear Lord Jesus Christ. Over 200 people attended, including children. We had a potluck with lots of delicious food.

On New Years Eve, we had a special service, from 8:00 PM to midnight. I baptized a lady and a man. They had been with us for a while, but for some reason, they had neglected their baptism. We also had a dinner at 10:00 PM. After the service Graciela and I went to a home to have fellowship with three families. We went back home by 3:00 AM.

The first and second week of January we had prayer meetings every night at different homes.
We are praying for the ones who are serving the Lord this year as coordinators, children and teen-agers' teachers, ushers and deacons. We are asking for at least three more teachers in order to replace the ones that are not able to continue their teaching ministry. For instance, a lady had surgery on her right foot, she will be absent for at least three months. Another lady resigned because of constant bone pain. Another brother has heart problems and he would rather not have any responsibility this year. One more was chosen to be the men's ministry coordinator.

We are looking forward to celebrating our Hispanic Church Anniversary in March. Gustavo Soto is going to be our guest speaker. He is a missionary working with CAM International, living in Atlanta, GA. He will preach on Friday 24th. The ladies are going to have a breakfast on Saturday and Gustavo will be sharing the Word with them.
On Saturday from 1:00-4:00 PM. we will have a Couples Seminar, and then Saturday at 7:00 PM we will have our evening service for the whole church. We will finish with great joy on Sunday 25th. After the morning service, we will have a dinner and after the evening service, we will have the Church Anniversary cake.

Pray for my wife Graciela, she is in Caracas, Venezuela. She is going to have surgery on Friday February 16th. She went twice to see the doctors here in Hillsboro. However, for some reason, she felt more comfortable going to her country to be treated. I do not know all the details, but it seems to me that it is something related to her colon. She has been in Venezuela since the 18th of January. She will be back home once she feels strong enough for flying. It could be either by the end of February or the first week of March.
Thank you for having us in your prayer list.
With love, in Jesus our Savior
Hector Rodriguez

FAMILY NEWS
Congratulations to Louie and Linda Arnold. Their son Joe and his wife Denise had a new addition to their family. Johan Max Arnold was born February 16. If you ask, Louie and Linda might have some pictures to show.

MISSIONARY UPDATES
Allan and Baska Vance
Missionaries in Portugal
Dear Brothers & Sisters In Christ
Thank you so much for your extra gift at Christmas time. We really appreciate it as it helps to cover our ministry costs. Thank you, too, for your prayers for our ministry here, As you may know, Allan will be stepping down as lead pastor in June. Please remember the church leadership as they seek to replace Allan. Please pray for us as we seek the Lord and His direction for future ministry were not sure what that may look like although it will be centered around evangelism and discipleship. Again thank you for your prayers and gift.
In Him

Dear Friends at Hillsboro First Baptist
Thank you so much for the Christmas gift you sent us. We so appreciate your prayers and support. David and I are progressing in German. We start our next class tomorrow. We are enjoying learning the language and are thrilled to be able to understand some of what people are saying to us!
The girls are doing well in school. They have made friends and seem to be adjusting well. Thanks again for your prayers and support. Blessings,
David, Catherine, Kailyn & Daneille Love

ISRAEL UPDATE
According to Israeli newspaper, Arutz Sheva, Hizbullah continues to smuggle weapons into southern Lebanon, and has surpassed pre-war abilities. Minister of the Knesset Shalom: says, "If so, the war was a failure." Brig.-Gen. Yossi Beiditz, head of the Israeli Defense Force's Intelligence Wing Research Division, agrees that Hizbullah has "returned to its pre-war capabilities, and has even become stronger."

Just a few days ago, Hizbullah terrorist chieftain Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah bragged publicly about the continuing smuggling of weapons into southern Lebanon. "We say this openly; after all, we didn't fight Israel with sticks, but with rockets," he said. "Israel doesn't know where we are hiding them."

As you can imagine, the Israeli people find this disconcerting. Although their determination is strong, many fear that a new conflict will soon erupt meaning more disruption of life and destruction of lives on both sides.
Please pray that Christians and our own national leaders will stand firm in their support of Israel.

Caring and Sharing
Dear First Baptist Church staff and members
We thank you for your kindness, support and help with the service for the loss of our son John.

We appreciate your prayers, helping with the luncheon, and potted flowers.
Sincerely, Jim and Jane Person and Mary Bassir.

Dearest Pastor Jerry & Mary Lee and all the prayer warriors of our church family:
What a journey this has been as we watched Mom conquer so many of her ailments. She was such an amazing example to all of us. Thank you Pastor Jerry for coming to the hospital and being not only an encouragement to mom but to the whole family as we dealt with her passing.
To all of our brothers and sisters who came to her Memorial Service we especially thank you. It was such an uplifting thing to have so many our church family surrounding us as we celebrated Mom*s life. We thank you all for the cards, calls and offers of help to Dad and us. We are learning with the passage of each day that the comfort frOm the Holy Spirit and the prayers of our loved ones do shore us up for the harder times.

Thank you for the plant also. To those on the prayer chain and those who kept Mom and all of us before the throne, we love you all very much. We were so grateful that the Lord took her home soon after her stroke. We rely upon His mercy and the support of loved ones. God bless you all.
Doug & Dawn Stover.

Dear Church Family
We want to thank everyone for all the help and prayers while Nancy was recovering from her broken shoulder.
Dave & Nancy Radmacher

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.
Anonymous

COMING EVENTS
March 1 - Scrapbooking
March 3 - One-day Women*s
conference at Corbin College
March 11 - Heritage Builders
March 12 - 15 NWCBA annual
meetings at Skamania Lodge
March 20 - Scrapbooking
March 27 - Prison Fellowship Mentoring
Workshop
April 1 - Palm Sunday
April 6 - Good Friday
April 8 - Easter Sunday

PARISH NURSING NOTES
Recognize a Stroke!
1. Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on
one side of the body.
2. Sudden dimness or loss of vision, particularly in one eye.
3. Loss of speech or trouble talking or understanding speech.
4. Sudden severe headaches with no apparent cause.
5. Unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness, or sudden falls, especially along with any of the
previous symptoms.

YOU ARE PARTICULARLY AT RISK FOR STROKE IF YOU HAVE:
1. Diagnosed high blood pressure.
2. Diagnosed heart disease.

The warning signs listed above may be temporary, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to almost twenty-four hours. If any of these symptoms occur get medical help right away!

LISTENING THROUGH THE NEW TESTAMENT
On February 25th we launched a six week adventure in listening through the New Testament. Faith Comes By Hearing is an organization that provides audio versions of the scriptures to people groups all over the world as a form of outreach. They have provided us with cd*s in MP3 format that contain the NIV version of the New Testament read in dramatized fashion. These are given to us free of charge with the expectation that at the end of the project we will take a free will offering to assist them in distributing the scriptures around the world.

You can pick up your copy in the church office or following the morning service. Faith Comes By Hearing also provides an mp3 player loaded with the same reading for $29. Through the generosity of an anonymous donor we are able to acquire some of these mp3 players and provide them free of charge to anyone who might not have an mp3 cd player or other device for playing back the New Testament and cannot afford one.

If you are interested please contact Pastor Jerry. Our goal is to have listened through the entire New Testament by Easter Sunday.

Your Pastoral Staff

February Voice 2007

2007-02-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings

In some of my devotional reading I discovered this helpful meditation written by Charles Stanley in his book, 'The Savior's Touch.'

"Do you sometimes wrestle with God over an issue you desperately want solved? The need is urgent, the time is short, your prayers are intense. However, God seems tight-lipped. At times there appears to be an almost inverse relationship between the magnitude of the problem and the clarity of the response from God. The more we want to know God's mind, the less he appears to reveal a solution.

After several such episodes in my life, I came to understand a potent scriptural truth that can unleash the full weight of God's power on one's behalf. Its dynamic meaning became clear only after I had come to the end of my resources. It is the principle of relinquishment.

When I reach my wit's end, when I have prayed as precisely as I know how, followed all the commands I know to obey, sought as much counsel as I though necessary, and still have no clear guidance, I realize I must relinquish the entire situation to the Father. Never have I experienced such peace and such profoundly supernatural answers as when I relinquish the problem to God.

By relinquishment, I do not mean resignation or passivity. I am not suggesting a mind-set that centers on inaction. What I do mean is the cessation of a demanding spirit, the quieting of inner strife, the cancellation of my own agenda, and a complete willingness to settle for God*s provision.

Christ himself is our example as he passionately communed with the Father regarding his death. "My Father, if it is possible may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will" (Matt. 26:39). Jesus knew his mission of redemption was incomplete without the cross, yet he still had to surrender his desires to the Father. It was a prayer of relinquishment, arrived at only after ardent, earnest petition. But what power flowed from the answer --the cross of Christ, the crux of Christianity. Jesus, as always said yes to the Father and the shackles of sin were shattered.

The same principle releases God's amazing answers today. We submit to the Father's plan, whatever that may be. We give the matter over to the love of God and trust him for results that we may or may not like. Whatever the answer, it is from God; and that is all we need to know.*Relinquishing a troublesome matter to God means we have placed the dilemma squarely into the hands of God, whose goodness, wisdom, and power never fail. They are good hands."

How are you doing? Do you find yourself fretting and stewing because you find it hard to turn loose and let God in the pilot*s seat? Co-pilots don*t just sit on their thumbs, nor are we intended to do so. But we have to believe that our fate is in the hands of someone who is far more competent than we are. There is both great freedom and great power in the principle of relinquishment.
Pastor Jerry

CARING AND SHARING

Dear friends,

Thank you so much for the Christmas gift of $80 from your Christmas stocking project. We appreciate your generosity and thoughtfulness. After Christmas we bought a new VCR to replace our old one that was limited in capacity.

I've begun my new job at WorldLink Graduate Center in Portland. Since I can do a lot of the work from home, the schedule is more relaxed. ESL classes on the Portland State Campus have begun on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, with students from Korea, China, Taiwan, and Thailand.

Usually we have some Japanese, but maybe others will come soon. The Friday night coffeehouse has also restarted after the Christmas break, with so many attending last Friday night that it was difficult to find a place to sit.

May God bless our church in the year to come, bringing many new disciples into the Kingdom.

In Christ's Fellowship,

Carmen for the Bryants.

Dear First Baptist,

Recently we heard from WorldVenture that you gave us an extra Christmas gift above and beyond your regular monthly support. Thank you so much for your generosity and your faithfulness.

In Christ,

Scott Montgomery for us all.

THE QUILTED SISTERS

On Wednesday, January 3, eight of us Wednesday quilters delivered 38-40 quilts to Tuality hospital. (A couple of quilts came in at the last minute, and I'm not sure if I included them in the total.)

Joyce White and Amy Kaiser are the two contacts at the hospital, and they are so gracious each time we deliver our load. Out of about 1,000 births at Tuality Hospital each year, we are able to provide around 100 to those families whose babies would otherwise go home with nothing. And Amy says that she reserves the breast cancer patient quilts for those who are going through the most difficult procedures, or for those ladies who really need comfort at the moment.

It gives us great joy to be able to provide this little token of love to others. Included in our labels, we have a poem that mentions Jesus Christ as the one with the answers in life, and also included is James 1:17 which states that: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above." Our prayer is that these words would work in each life that receives it.

Love in Christ,

The Quilted Sisters

(Mary, Jean, Susan, Ruby, Sharell, Patty, Merlene, Terry, Marilyn, and Elsie).

Colligan's Callings

Family Ministries Update:
A new year had begun and we're off to a good start. God has been moving in the hearts of the youth in taking their faith and putting it into action. The Winter Youth Conference was really helpful and encouraging to the people who went. We were blown away again at how God provided through you folks and the wreaths sales. We love that fundraiser and you all are sooooo supportive. Thank you.

We were even more inspired by the challenging messages and discussion at the conference. A few youth really began to think in terms of their "calling" to serve Christ. Be praying that these dreams are encouraged and not lost.

In the Sunday School hour we have been trying to study what the church is all about. We have asked tough questions of ourselves, trying to keep it on ourselves, and the answers are challenging us to change how we live our lives.

This Wednesday we'll be taking a trip to a local rehab center to spend time with the residents. Pray that our hearts are broken with the things that break the heart of God.

Heritage Builders will be beginning this weekend as we dive into the issue of Discipline. What parent doesn't deal with "How do we do this?!?!" We'll be looking at the goal of discipline, why we do it, and venture into bolder leadership in our own lives as parents and in training our kids.

Heritage Builders is heading into completing it's second year as a program for families at our church. It's success depends upon the "other three weeks" when our dinner and time together are not happening. In reality, we are faced with the fact that we cannot live our Christian lives at 177 NE Lincoln St. This is why we pull together, seek each other, and go boldly into the realm of courageous and sacrificial faithfulness.

I believe that all the families are having weeks of great hope and success. I also admit that we all have other kinds of weeks that would require different adjectives to describe. Pray for the families of our church. This is a rough world to raise kids in and God's Word has high standards for us. We are certainly thankful for the Grace of God that called us and sustains us through it all, however.

Please pray that the relationships between the families of our body would grow deep and dependent and Satan would not win in his schemes against us. Also pray that God would call and encourage you (whatever age or stage of life) in your role in the families and family of FBC.

We are planning on camping this summer again. Families and the whole church will be invited. We'll be bidding in March for the camp spot and are hoping for favor from God on that. We*re also planning on pursuing the Bagley Park Lunch Program option again this summer as that gets established through HSD. No dates to report yet. Blessings. Be faithful.Pastor Mark

Israel Update

The Jewish population in Judea and Samaria grew by nearly 6% in 2006, four times the rate of increase a year earlier. According to figures released on Tuesday [January 16] by the Interior Ministry, there were 268,379 Israelis living in the 126 Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria at the end of 2006, compared with 253,748 in 2005--a 5.8% increase. In 2005, there was a growth of less than 2%.

A small part of the latest increase may be attributed to families from Jewish communities that were uprooted from Gush Katif in the summer of 2005 moving to Judea and Samaria. However, spokespersons for the Jewish Communities Council of Judea, Samaria, and Gaza note that most of the nearly 9,000 Jews pulled out of the Gaza Strip have moved into temporary or permanent homes in southern, pre-1967 Israel.

Another factor that may play a minor role in the population increase is the immigration statistics from the English-speaking West. More than 3,000 immigrants from the United States, Canada, and Britain made aliyah [immigrated to Israel] in 2006 with the assistance of Nefesh B'Nefesh. A total of 10,000 Jews immigrated with the organization's help in recent years. Many Western immigrants are known to have familial or religious connections to communities in Judea and Samaria. This in spite of all the negative press and all of the problems related to personal safety.

NIGHT TO HONOR ISRAEL

February 11th

Churches in the greater Portland area are gathering together to show our Jewish friends our support for Israel. Please join us.
When: 5:30 p.m. Sunday February 11
Where: Portland Convention Center
What: Well-known Speakers, special music, special displays
Cost: Tickets are free, but a $5.00 donation would be appreciated.

Missionary Corner

Victor & Carmel Madsen
Uganda

Victor and Carmel have been serving in their first term with World Venture in Uganda for three years now. Due to support needs and the health needs of both Victor's father and Carmel's father, they are taking an early furlough. As of this writing Victor's father is extremely ill and not expected to live much longer. While home the Madsens will also be spending time discovering additional support since they are only at about 83% of their required support.

Uganda is a land of infinite variety. Described as the "Pearl of Africa" by Winston Churchill, Uganda is characterized by rolling green plains, volcanoes and snowy mountain peaks, and impenetrable forests. The country lays astride the equator, yet its average altitude of 3,000 feet above sea level results in a temperate climate. Lake Victoria, on the countrys southern border with Tanzania, is the world's second largest freshwater lake.

Unfortunately, the people of this beautiful country have experienced much hardship. Having achieved independence from Great Britain in 1962, Uganda struggled under the dictatorial rule of Idi Amin in the 1970s. Estimates hold that 1 to 2 million Ugandans died under Amin's brutal reign, ensuing civil wars and tribal battles, and displacement, famine and disease that followed.

One bright note is that after many years of focused effort, Uganda has gone from having the highest known incidence of HIV/AIDS of any nation in the world to among the lowest in Africa.

Factors including a median life expectance of 45 years, over half the population living in poverty, and an average birth rate of seven children per woman, leave Ugandans desperate for encouragement and a hope for the future.

LISTENING THROUGH THE NEW TESTAMENT

On February 25th we will be launching a six week adventure in listening through the New Testament. Faith Comes By Hearing is an organization that provides audio versions of the scriptures to people groups all over the world as a form of outreach. They have provided us with cd's in MP3 format that contain the NIV version of the New Testament read in dramatized fashion.

These are given to us free of charge with the expectation that at the end of the project we will take a free will offering to assist them in distributing the scriptures around the world. You can pick up your copy in the church office or following the morning service.

Faith Comes By Hearing also provides an mp3 player loaded with the same reading for $29. Through the generosity of an anonymous donor we are able to acquire some of these mp3 players and provide them free of charge to anyone who might not have an mp3 cd player or other device for playing back the New Testament and cannot afford one. If you are interested please contact Pastor Jerry. They are on back order but we hope to have them available for the official start of our reading program on February 25.

Our goal is to have listened through the entire New Testament by Easter Sunday.
Your Pastoral Staff

Valentine's Banquet

Date: February 10

Theme: Think About Cruising

Cost: $10 per person.

Tickets are available in the foyer on Sundays or in the church office during the week.

Menu: Prime Rib & Chicken Breast

Speaker: Georgene Rice, talk show host and singer.

You will enjoy her. You don*t need a *date* to come. If you need child care please notify the office or fill out the pink flyer in the church bulletin.

Couples Retreat

Our annual couples retreat is scheduled for Friday, February 23rd 7:00 p.m. to Noon Saturday, February 24th at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Astoria. The speaker will be James Martin and his wife Lynetta. Registration forms are in the foyer or you can call the church office. Registrations must be turned in by February 11th. Treat yourself and your spouse to a special time away. Bob Cruz has guaranteed that the weather will be great, especially if you stay inside.

OCTOBER VOICE 2006

2006-10-06T16:31:00.000-07:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings
As we plan our services toward the end of the year, we want to stress the importance of being instruments of intervention in the lives of those who are struggling. There are many people who are dissatisfied with life and with their own personal version of life. They may immerse themselves in a flurry of activity or try to lose themselves in entertainment or unwholesome behavior. But they will never experience satisfaction through those pursuits.

You and I have the only permanent antidote for the sense of hopelessness or meaninglessness to which people succumb. Probably more than at any other time of the year, the fall and Christmas season sensitizes people to a spiritual component to life. They may not understand it. They misinterpret or misrepresent it, but nevertheless they are seeking for something.

This is a good time to begin reaching out to people around you. Begin early and begin prayerfully. Look for ways to invest yourself in the lives of Christians and non-Christians who are spiritually adrift. Befriend them. Listen to them. Pray that they will share with you something that will open the door to sharing the grace of Jesus Christ. Be prayerful and be proactive. Take time to pray regularly for people. Listen for the opportunities to share and make certain that you are ready to give an answer of the hope that lies within you.
Pastor Jerry

Dear Brothers & Sisters @ First B:
In addition to the beautiful plants sent for Mom's memorial I just want to thank you for being so kind to our family. The hospital visits by Pastor Jerry & the Ragsdales, handling of the reception and all the kind phone calls and cards. We have such a wonderful "family" in the Lord at 1st B and are so grateful for the spirit of love that you wrapped us in during this sad time. Mom is with the Lord and at peace. Thank you all. Rennia Meek.

Dear Friends
We want to thank all who helped paint our house earlier this month. With everyone working together, the job was done in less than four hours. Even though the house is the same color, it is much brighter than the faded color it had become. You helped us accomplish something we couldn*t do for ourselves. May God bless you.
Don and Carmen Bryant

Gone to be with the Lord
Geraldine Acres - passed away Monday, Oct 2, 2006.The Sailors family invites to to attend a Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct 21 ,2006 at Hillsboro First Baptist

THE GRINCH'S CORNER
This is October and fall is about to shower its rainbow of color changes on us. The air will get cooler and before long the fall rains will set in. At the end of the month we will be visited at our homes by costumed creatures, small of stature, holding out bags into which we are required to pour goodies of the toothsome kind. It is our annual contribution to the welfare of dentists the world around.

Some people think it a wonderful adventure for little children to circulate through the neighborhood receiving goodies from people they hardly know. Most people, Christian and pagan alike, see it as a delightful and innocuous holiday. Even the grown-ups get into the act with costumes and parties.

Because of its origins and subject matter some people are extremely reactive to the celebration of Halloween. Are they just narrow-minded spoil sports or are they making a point the rest of us should be considering? Or is there some legitimate ground in between?

It is true that Halloween is deeply rooted in both paganism and Catholicism. For Catholics it is the evening before All Saints' Day.But Halloween was originally a part of the Celtic festival of Samhaim. November 1 served as the end of summer. Herds were moved from summer pastures. According to Celtic lore it was the time when departed souls returned to visit their earthly homes. People set bonfires on hilltops for rekindling their hearth fires and to drive away evil spirits. It was customary to wear disguises so the ghosts would not recognize them. And so such beings as witches, ghosts, goblins, fairies, and demons came to be associated with the day.

When the Romans conquered Britain they added their own festivals commemorating the passing of the dead, and honoring the goddess of the harvest. In the 7th century AD, Pope Boniface IV officially designated May 13 as All Saints' Day. In the 8th century, in order to transform the pagan holiday into a Christian observance, it was moved to November 1. The evening before All Saints' Day became a holy, or hallowed, eve and thus Halloween. But, true to human nature, by the end of the Middle Ages, the holiday became a strange amalgam of pagan and "Christian" observances.

For Protestants, the Reformation essentially put an end to the quasi-religious holiday. However, in Britain especially, Halloween continued to be celebrated as a secular holiday. Along with other festivities, the celebration of Halloween was largely forbidden among the early American colonists as a reaction to the excesses of the state church. In its place Christian settlers developed activities to mark the end of harvest. Some incorporated elements of Halloween into the festivities.

When large numbers of immigrants, including the Irish, came to the United States beginning in the mid 19th century, they brought their Halloween customs with them. In time for most Protestants and non-Christians Halloween ceased to be a serious religious holiday. In the 20th century Halloween became one of the principal U.S. holidays, particularly among children, focusing on a world of fantasies. In the latter part of the 20th Century adults became more active in the celebration with make-up, costumes, and watching movies such as Nightmare on Elm Street. In some ways it seems to have gravitated more toward its pagan origins in recent years, especially since there has been some renewed interest in things of the occult. So what should we do? Rise up in loud protest and pass laws to forbid Halloween? Ignore its more sinister side? The Bible says to abstain from every appearance of evil. How do we apply this principle? There is nothing wrong with dressing up. But how do we dress up? Children, for a brief time, role-play the character that they represent. Do we want them role-playing evil? There is nothing wrong with decorations. But what do the decorations convey? Do they portray good or evil? The scriptures tell us to fill our minds with things that are good and noble. A picture of a witch flying across your window doesn*t really portray what is good and noble. In whatever you do, make certain that the occult and evil are not glamorized. Prov. 14:9 says, *Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is favor.*Should we ban the jack-o*-lantern because it was once used in pagan rituals? An Irish legend tells of Jack, a lazy but shrewd farmer who used a cross to trick the Devil, then refused to free him unless he agreed to never let Jack into Hell. The Devil agreed. When Jack died, he was too sinful to be allowed into Heaven, but the Devil wouldn't let him into Hell. So, Jack carved out one of his turnips, put a candle inside it, and began endlessly wandering the Earth looking for a resting place. He was known as "Jack of the Lantern", or Jack-o'-Lantern.However, in America the carved pumkin was associated with the harvest season in general, long before it became an emblem of Halloween. The poet John Greenleaf Whittier, who was born in 1807, wrote in *The Pumpkin* (1850).

Oh! *fruit loved of boyhood! *the old days recalling,
When wood-grapes were purpling and brown nuts were falling!
When wild, ugly faces we carved in its skin,
Glaring out through the dark with a candle within!

Should we surrender pumpkins because some pagan yahoo chose to desecrate them for demonic purposes? I don't think so. But we must be careful what we portray by what we do.
Pastor Jerry

Introducing....
If you have not met them yet, I would encourage you to get to know James and Jennifer Cameron, our new Director of Worship Ministries. James is a gifted musician whose forte is the French Horn. He has taught choral and band groups at the high school level. He and Jennifer have worked together in worship leading and direction. James is currently attending Warner Pacific College full time. Although he has a degree in music he is working on certification for teaching.

Jennifer is chair of the music department at Warner Pacific. She also is an Assistant Professor of Music at Warner Pacific. Jennifer is an accomplished flautist. We are looking forward to the sweet sounds of the flute augmenting our worship service from time to time.*Both enjoy a broad spectrum of music, all the way from classical music to contemporary, both sacred and secular. We are delighted to have them join us in the growth of new avenues of worship and growth.

MISSIONARY CORNER

David & Catherine Love--Missionaries to Germany
German Visas: We still expect to receive our long-term visas but we are living with uncertainty until they are actually approved. Please pray that they would be approved quickly.

Our shipment: Our apartment is ready for us to move into but we don't have any furniture! Our shipping container is stuck in Bremerhaven, Germany because of customs issues. Normally, our used couches, beds, clothing, etc would be exempt from taxes and import duties. However, since we do not yet have long-term visas the customs officials have no proof that we are staying here long-term. Therefore, in their minds, right now we are importing all of this stuff that we might sell.

Every day that passes we will be charged 35 Euros (~45 dollars) for "storage" of our container at the port until we can get it through customs. To pay the duties and taxes and be done with it would cost nearly $1,300. We are caught between a rock and a hard place right now so please pray that our visa attorney and customs clearing agent will be able to work out a deal with the customs officials QUICKLY! Blessings, David & Catherine Email: david@goshortterm.com

NOTE: They are still waiting on their visas, but their furniture has been released!

Fall Choir Kick-Off
The choir will be starting up again for the year on Wednesday, October 11 at 7pm in the Sanctuary. The ability to read music is not required, so if you love to sing, regardless of ability level, please come and join us.

Dear Church Family,
What a blessing it is to us to be welcomed so warmly into your family! We are very excited by all of the ways that God is moving in this church. It is such an honor to be a part of a family that not only loves God, but expresses godly love to one another so freely!

After years of performing classical music professionally and years of teaching music to high school and college students, it is such an honor to work in a church setting, where everything we do is performed in His sanctuary and specifically for His glory.

Hillsboro First Baptist has many fine musicians and we look forward to providing many musical outlets to provide as many people as possible the opportunity to play and sing music for our Lord.

While many churches are doing away with the choir as a part of the worship service, we are pleased to announce that we still see the value in keeping the choir active in the church. Choirs and groups of singers are certainly mentioned several times in the Bible, and always to serve one purpose to praise God. We are happy to declare that the purpose of the choir at Hillsboro First Baptist will be to bring glory to God and draw attention to our Lord and Savior.

The time for singing on Sunday morning is a special time in any church family. God can use this time for so many important purposes, among them to remind us how amazing and truly worthy of praise He is; to allow us to experience His presence in a powerful new way; to reveal sin in our lives that we might change our ways; and for a time to draw near to god that he might draw near to us (James 4:8).

Music is such an important part of each of our lives we constantly play and hear music in the background as we go about our daily lives. With the invention of the I-Pod and other mobile music devices, you see people listening to music everywhere you look. When we play music for God in the sanctuary, however, our purpose must be so much deeper than merely to entertain or to address personal preferences for a favorite song or style of song. We must plan our songs so that they lead the worshipper to draw closer to God, that God may do His work in us.

It is so tempting for the worshipper to "sit and watch", observing the various elements of song choice, song style, who is singing this week, and the way the other people are worshipping. And then forget our purpose for being in the sanctuary at that moment--to have a one-on-one worship experience between God and yourself.

How easily it is to be distracted during this time, but if we each can take a moment and say a prayer asking God to clear our minds of distraction that we may worship Him, He will be faithful and help us to do so. We can both say from our experiences as worshippers that we have said this little prayer and God has been faithful and freed us to truly worship feel God's presence.

Music has been a divisive issue throughout the entire history of the Christian church, causing much unrest and division. It is our prayer that as we lift our voices in one accord here at Hillsboro First Baptist that our music be the one thing that brings us the closest together, as God intended it to do. *We look forward to meeting each and every one of you, and to see the amazing things God is going to do in this church! See you in the sanctuary on Sunday!
In Christ's Love,
James and Jennifer

VOICE FOR SEPTEMBER 2006

2006-09-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

PASTOR'S PONDERINGS

THE SIZE OF A SOUL
& PLAN "B."

Humans come in all sizes. Goliath was over 9 feet tall. A baby is between 18 and 22 inches long at birth. Caroline Carchami, born in 1815 only grew to a height of 19.5 inches. What do they all have in common? They each have a soul, regardless of their size. The newborn, the dwarf, and the giant each have an eternal soul.

The soul of a person is not physical. It is eternal. It is not bound by time and space the way your body is. So the newborn has just as much of a soul as a 90 year old. Hopefully in the course of 90 years the soul will take on properties it did not possess at conception.

In the most recent development in birth control, science has provided what is known as plan B or the truly morning after pill.

Proponents suggest that there is no reason for anti-abortion advocates to object since the pill prevents a *pregnancy.*

However the issue is not pregnancy, but life. Once again, the focus is misdirected away from the principal issue * when does life begin? When does a person have a soul?

If you believe that life begins at conception, then anything that terminates conception is the termination of a life. Plan *B* may not terminate *pregnancy* because the egg has not implanted on the uterine wall, but it does keep the fertilized egg from continuing to grow. And so it dies.

I sometimes wonder if the problem for some is that they cannot handle the notion of a soul *fitting* inside something as tiny as a fertilized egg. Or perhaps they cannot imagine that a soul can exist when human consciousness as we know it has not yet been established.

But please remember this. According to the scriptures, when our physical bodies die, our souls continue to exist in a conscious state. As Paul states, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

This is further supported by the story of the rich man and Lazarus. After death they both continued to have the power of rational thought even though they no longer had a physical body.

So, the size of the egg is no indication of the size of or existence of the soul. We are dependent upon the Word of God for that. There is no logical place at which to insert the notion of a soul except at conception.

Conception becomes not only the fruit of two human beings, but the hand of God as well. It is wise not to mess with His handiwork.

CONDOLENCES

Maslen Family -- Hazel passed away August 2

Judah Family -- Brad passed away August 13

Ken & Elsie Clausen -- Their Aunt Maggie passed away August 19

David Deatherage -- his wife Sharon passed away August 21

ISRAELI CONNECTION

One of the more troubling things of recent weeks has been a verbal attack by the Latin Patriarch of the Syrian church in Jerusalem against Christian Zionists, people who believe that Israel still has a role to play as a nation in the prophetic plan of God. He wrote:

"Christian Zionism is a modern theological and political movement that embraces the most extreme ideological positions of Zionism, thereby becoming detrimental to a just peace within Palestine and Israel," the Jerusalem [Patriarch's] declaration claimed, calling Christian Zionism "a false doctrine that corrupts the biblical message of love, justice, and reconciliation."

This comes at a time when evangelicals have made some real progress in building strong ties and relationships with the Israeli political and religious leaders.
Replacement theology to which some of the orthodox churches hold, teaches that the Church has replaced Israel and that Israel has no real status as a nation.
This conflict can be very confusing and unsettling to the Jewish community.

VBS IN THE PARK
You may have known it as WACKY WEEK, but it was our version of Vacation Bible School this year. We decided to do it in the park this year to connect with some of our neighbors. And that was an overwhelming success. We had walk-ins from the neighborhood and people from several miles away who just happened to stop at the park. It gave us an opportunity to not only connect with children, but with their parents as well. We truly felt as though we had made a good first start at reaching out beyond the borders of our own church and our own acquaintances.

Each day we had a special activity, crafts, games, lesson, and lunch. We are so grateful for all of you who gave so sacrificially of your time. You made it an especially meaningful time.

MISSIONARY CORNER

Stacy Johnson -- Stacy is serving in a Northern Africa country as a school teacher in a school run by a Christian organization. It is a private school catering to nationals, most of whom are Muslim. Last year Stacy was challenged by teaching Science and Math, subjects that are not in her area of training. This year she will be teaching in the subjects for which she was trained -- History and English.

School has already begun. Stacy enjoys the country and the people. She is blessed to have teacher roommate with whom she gets along very well.

Please continue to pray for her and for her family since they are separated by a continent and an ocean.

HERITAGE BUILDERS FOR THE FALL

Here are the dates for Heritage Builders meetings -- if you have children in your home up through age 18, this ministry is for you.

Sunday Evenings at 5:00 p.m.

September 24 -- True Greatness Questioned (Have you been lied to?)
October 22 -- True Greatness Revealed (Where's The Payoff?)
November 19 -- Building Toward True Greatness (How Do We Do it?)
December 10 -- A True Family Christmas (Making the important impacting)

In bringing the whole household together, we strive to equip families with ideas and tools to build a stronger heritage for future generations. This will impact our lives and the lives of countless others.
Dinner is Served at 5:00 p.m. with program to follow.
(There is no cost to participate. Donations are welcome. but not necessary.)

CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER

"Christmas in October" will soon be upon us! This is our annual Christmas gift collection for the missionaries we support. It is above and beyond our financial support and all of the gift will be given to the missionaries.
Christmas stockings are available for you to pick up today. Please take a stocking for your family and make it a family project to see how the Lord can bless others through you. Fill them with your gifts and bring them back on October 22 and 29.

JOINT SERVICE A SUCCESS

On August 6 we held a joint service and dinner in Bagley Park with our Hispanic brothers and sisters. It was well attended and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves even though it was a very w arm day. Praise the Lord for the great support.

Ladies, here's a great opportunity to get away, get acquainted with other ladies,
and learn some excellent things from the Word of God.

October 6th - 8th
at
Tillikum Retreat Center
Price: $95

Our speaker this year is Carmen Bryant. Our theme is "He Speaks to Me."
You can sign up in the church foyer or pick up a registration form from the church office.

HISPANIC HAPPENINGS

Dear First Baptist Church,
The very busy summer is almost over. All our Camps and retreats for the different ministries are over. We had the youth camp at Mount Timor. The Men went to Lincoln City. The ladies had their retreat at Gearhart; the Children were at our church for an overnight party. They had bible lessons, worship time, food and games. The following day, Saturday they went to Salmon Creek, Vancouver, WA.

We enjoyed, very much the joint service at the park. To me, it was a blessing. In the name of the Hispanic people, I want to say thank you for your friendship. Culture and language divide us, but the Holy "Spirit brings unity to the Body of Jesus. Let's glorify the Name of Jesus Christ together.

From August 17 to August 27, Graciela and I were in Yucatan, Mexico. Francisco Can, one of the members of our church took his family down there to celebrate his daugher's sweet fifteen with grandmas and grandpas, aunts and uncles. He invited us to participate in the service. I preached, and performed the ceremony on August 19.

Food was not friendly to Graciela. She go sick on the third day. After waiting for four days, we had to see a doctor. Her complete recovery came two days after we got home when she started eating her own diet. Does she want to back? You bet! She enjoyed the people’s friendship very much. She could minister to many ladies.

We shared the Gospel with some people on the streets. we also did some home visits.

Alfredo is one of the man that has received Jesus through our Hispanic Ministry. He ahs been with us for about three years. He would like to see his parents become Christians. We went to visit them. It seems that they are interested in knowing more about Jesus. Alfredo shares his faith with them over the phone very often. Pray that a pastor from that area will visit them.

We came back on August 28th. We had a sweet fifteen celebration on September 2econd. The ladies are going to the annual Ladies;' Conference on September 16th. All our Hispanic Baptist congregations are invited. Pray that we have a very good attendance.

In Jesus; Love, Pastor Hector and Graciela Rodriguez.

VOICE AUGUST 2006

2006-08-04T16:04:00.000-07:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings

Note: In light of the recent immigration debate, I thought the following article would be helpful in maintaining a Christian perspective.

Defending the Strangers in Our Midst
The demonizing of immigrants
June 9, 2006
by Chuck Colson

"Did you know that "95 percent of warrants for murder in Los Angeles are for illegal aliens?" Or that "75 percent of people on the Most Wanted List in Los Angeles are illegal aliens"? What's more, "Over [two-thirds] of all births in Los Angeles County are to illegal alien Mexicans on [Medicaid] whose births were paid for by taxpayers."

This is outrageous. Especially since none of it is true! Instead, it's just one example of how, in some ways, we have gone beyond worrying about illegal immigration to demonizing the immigrants themselves. This example came from a widely circulated e-mail that was posted on at least 130 conservative websites. It listed ten "facts about immigration" and gave as its source the Los Angeles Times.Not only was the Los Angeles Times not the source of these "facts," when the paper examined the alleged "facts," none of them withstood scrutiny.

Some of them distorted the data: For instance, approximately 62 percent of all births in Los Angeles County are to Hispanic women. But this number includes American citizens, legal aliens, Hispanics from countries other than Mexico, and has nothing to do with Medicaid.

The so-called "facts" about illegal alien criminality are even worse: They are deliberate misrepresentations or complete fabrications. Unfortunately, this is only the tip of an often very ugly iceberg. The illegal immigration problem is often called an "invasion" that threatens the existence of the United States. Illegal aliens are depicted as part of an effort to "reconquer" the American Southwest. And it's not only illegal immigrants: American citizens of Mexican ancestry are also regarded as part of this plot.

Now, there are a few fringe Latino groups that talk about "reconquista." That is all they are, however: fringe. To judge all Latinos, including illegal aliens, by the words of these groups is as fair as judging all Christians by the actions of clinic bombers or Fred Phelps.

A concern for fairness isn't the most important reason that Christians ought to oppose this demonization of "the strangers in our midst." As theologian T. M. Moore recently wrote on BreakPoint Online, "God defends strangers. He has compassion for those who have left all and risked all to find new lives in a strange country." Moore reminds us that God expects His people's "attitude toward the strangers and sojourners in their midst" to reflect His own concern.

Now, this does not mean that Christians ought not to be concerned about the massive lawbreaking, by both illegal immigrants and those who employ them. We must! The rule of law is a Christian contribution, coming out of the Reformation, and it requires respect for law, just as the Bible does. Nor does it mean that there's one particular immigration proposal that Christians ought to be supporting. What it does mean is that Christians must work to see that the immigration debate generates light instead of heat. We must insist that the illegal-immigration issue be addressed without treating millions of Americans, many of whom have died protecting our country, as a kind of fifth column.

That is the very least we can do if we are obedient to God's command to welcome strangers. And that's a fact I got from the highest possible Source."

Colligan's Callings
The Oddest Conversion?

I was talking with two ladies yesterday. (They shall remain nameless.) We had the oddest of conversations. It wasn't so odd because of who they are, but because of HOW we were talking about what we were talking about. Is this how conversion really takes place?

Here's what I mean. These two ladies want to follow Christ. They say they really want to follow Him. For real. Because they HAVE to. One lady -really for the first time giving-up and giving-in to Christ's rule in her life and the other... finally to own the faith for herself.

What is so odd about this? THERE WAS NO SINNER'S PRAYER! Here's what I mean. You see, in the church we are so used to the "hear a sermon... walk the aisle... accept Jesus as Lord and savior in a prayer" ritual. We are also used to accepting this as "conversion" and going on with our lives and effectively discipling only a fraction of the people who go through that ritual. Rarely do we see a person (or two in this case) truly struggling with God, wrestling with Him, if you will, for years... and then giving into Him to be a loyal follower and disciple.

I told them some things that were freeing to hear because they were truth, but not at all pleasant to hear because they were truth. Now... they must die to themselves and follow Christ. They will have a daily cross to pick up and walk with their loving savior. His promises are amazing to them, but He has asked of them their LIVES.

Now... are you saved? Are you oddly converted? Here's what I mean. Does your life reflect following Christ? (Mt 10:37-39) Death to you, your wants, your selfishness and ALIVE to Him? (Phil 1:21) Have you carried a cross yet today because you are driven to please God who can (and has?) saved your soul?(Phil 2:12; 2Cor 7:15) Can somebody you came across today point out the fact that they "saw you being a disciple?" (Col 4:5,6; Mt 25:40) And at the end of the day can WE (I don't mean to preach here only at you) declare that it was God's grace alone that enabled us to do it, b/c we certainly ain't good enough to please or impress God? (Eph 2:8,9)

Perhaps this "conversion" is not so odd. Maybe it is real? (Mt 19:21) Man, do I love Jesus. I thought older people (like I feel at times) get used to Jesus and what it's like to see Him, know Him, feel Him, and follow Him. I thought it would be... like...nothing new - just who I am now. But that just is not true. I have never seen Christ so real in all my life. I thank Him for that. Even if He is currently asking the hardest things of me as His disciple. Give me grace today, oh Lord, to follow you. Give me Grace to obey and live your life. (Jn 10:10)

*Your thoughts?*
Pastor Mark

Dear Church Family
Thank you for all the nice cards, handshakes, smiles and hugs at my 95th birthday party. I never would have made it if not for Jesus, love and care, my parents, my loving wife and kids and super friends. Newt Thompson

To My Church Family,
A sincere thank you to the many church friends who have given me hugs, cards and support since my son Steven of 46 years died in North Carolina. He had many health problems so now he is free and with the Lord. Thank you also for the potted plant that Linda Arnold delivered from all of you. Bessie Hodson

Dear Church Family,
I appreciate the loving prayers, cards, phone calls and visits from my dear church family for my son Dan in his illness as well as his family. And now he is with Jesus. I appreciate so much your prayers for all our family. God*s blessings Marie Bennett.

To Our Church Family,
We thank you for the beautiful plants and all the cards we received. The loss of our son was so sudden and unexpected. He was a wonderful son. Several of his close friends told us he was the greatest Christian they had ever met. He was always helping someone. Thank you for your love and prayers. May God bless you all. Don & Marilyn Schuman

Thank you so much for your thoughtful letter and for your support. I wish I had written back sooner, but there just always seems to be one more thing to do before bed. Life is tolerable here. I certainly miss being at home with my family, and I really miss all the green that Oregon has. I look forward to visiting Oregon next spring in the May time frame.*Work here is hard and often frustrating. But thankfully we*ve been safe so far and have had no contact with the enemy on his terms. Jim Allen (letter to Louie & Linda Arnold. Jim is in Iraq and is on our prayer sheet.)

WOMEN'S RETREAT

October 6-8

Women's Retreat is fun, refreshing and relaxing. It is a great time to get to know other women better. We also have the opportunity to get closer to God. Here is what Mary Lee Propst has to say about retreat.

How many times have you attended retreat?

Wow! I don't remember. At least 10 times. As long as we have been going to Tilikum and a number of times at other retreat centers over the years.

Why do you attend retreat?

Because I love it. I enjoy the time away from other responsibilities. I enjoy spending time relaxing with and getting to know our women better. And because I know I can count on some quality time of teaching from the Word of God.

What do you enjoy most at retreat?

Being pamperd, including not having to cook. A change of pace from my normal weekend. Strengthening friendships.

What are the grounds like at Tilikum?

The grounds surround a beautiful lake. Plenty of hiking trails, including one that leads to our favorite "Big Swing". Plenty of quiet places to just sit and visit with a friend or meditate by yourself.

What is the food like?

Very good and lots of it. The staff has always been so helpful to provide for special dietary needs.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you have never attended and for some reason haven't been personally invited, here's an invitation from your Pastor's Wife. We always welcome new comers. It is such a great opportunity to get acquainted with the women of the church. You will see us as we really are, not just as we look on Sunday mornings. The Tilikum facility is not your ordinary camp ground bunk house. It is more like a hotel, with only 2-3 per room with private bathrooms for most rooms. Tilikum is only 20 miles from our church, but is definitely out in the country. You will be blessed this year as we have our own Carmen Bryant speaking to us on the topic "He Speaks To Me", learning to listen to God.

Hispanic Update

Dear First Baptist Church

Thank you to all of you for supporting the Hispanic Ministry. Thank you for your prayers on behalf of Graciela, my wife. She spent two months in Venezuela. For one month she was in the hospital and for another month she was recovering and having frequent visits at the doctor's clinic. She came back on April 14th. The doctor says that she has fibromyalgia. Even with medicine, sometimes the pain is terrible. Life has changed a bit. However her spirits are up.

She keeps serving the Lord with all her heart. She helped to coordinate a wedding on June 24th. She coordinated the Ladies' retreat that our church had on July 14-16. We continue working on our weekly radio program. We are on K-Praise 1330 AM every Friday at 9:30 p.m. We appreciate your prayers very much. God is always good. His mercy is forever. We praise and glorify His Holy name Pastor Hector Rodriguez

Are you Young at Heart?

We are looking for new Sunday School Teachers for the 2's & 3's class. This is a wonderful group of kids who are excited to sing and learn about Jesus. It would be wonderful fulfillment for whoever shall fill this position. Currently Alex & Kelly Alvarez have been teaching. Since Kelly is now the Children's Director she is needed elsewhere during the Sunday School hour. Would you please consider yourself as a teacher? Please contact Kelly Alvarez with any questions or inquires. 503-693-0719.

Waveland

2006-07-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

What Happened to July?

2006-07-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering where the July version of the VOICE is. It isn't. The people who work on this were all out of town at the time when it would be assembled and published. In it's place in a short while you will see a posting of some of the pictures from our Waveland trip, and perhaps some commentary. But rest assured that we will do our best to publish the August version of the VOICE, hopefully on time.

June 2006

2006-06-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings

Graduation/Commencement

Two ideas are put together to describe one event. Graduation and Commencement. It's the end of one thing and the beginning of another. The student days are over. Life hasn't ended, although for some it may seem like it. Life has just begun a new phase.All of life is that way. Marriage is graduation from singleness to a married state. What a change! Marriage brings with it a whole new set of obligations and expectations. You may think that once the wedding is over you can relax. But in fact you are just getting started on a life long relationship. Contrary to romantic novels, building a meaningful and fulfilling relationship is work. At times it's hard work.Retirement is not the cessation of existence. It is the graduation from one set of responsibilities to a new set of responsibilities. Retirement? Responsibilities? What are you saying? A promotion at work may liberate you from previous responsibilities. But it also carries with it new and even more challenging opportunities and responsibilities. Anyone who has gotten a promotion knows by experience that you just don't get to sit back and enjoy your new position of honor and power. Your boss is expecting more out of you than anyone ever has before.That's a good thing. Those raised expectations give motivation to expand your horizons.Every phase of life is endowed with opportunities. We either choose to take advantage of those opportunities or we don't. And, when our days here are finally over, we will give an account to the Lord for the way in which we have used the time and opportunities He has given us.This is why Paul charges us to "redeem the time." The path of life that seemed so long at the beginning suddenly seems so short as you approach the other end. It's good for us to do as the Psalmist suggests and "number our days." Make the most of every day for the sake of the Lord. You will never pass this way again.The other day I was talking with one of the people from the youth group I inherited when I came to First Baptist. He recently turned 50. How can that be? Time marches on undeterred in spite of our protests. So, whatever it is that you are graduating from, commence with the next thing that the Lord has on His schedule for you.Pastor Jerry

Israel Today

Egypt's President Mubarak and Jordan's King Abdullah, recently, issued a joint call against Ehud Olmert's planned transfer of vast areas of Judea and Samaria to the control of Hamas.The two leaders met in Aqaba, the Jordanian port city adjacent to Eilat, and warned that one-sided solutions will not help in promoting the peace process or regional stability. They said that Israel must negotiate not with Hamas, but with Abu Mazen, the leader of the Fatah organization.Middle Eastern affairs expert Dr. David Bukai of Haifa University explains that Egypt and Jordan are more concerned about the Hamas terror threat than some of Israel*s leaders. Speaking with Arutz-7, Israel's, Hebrew news magazine, Bukai said that Egypt and Jordan feel that the rise of Hamas was enabled because of Israel's retreat from Gaza. "They fear that if Israel continues to withdraw, Hamas will get even stronger, and will become an even greater threat to Egypt and Jordan," he said. "Jordan and Egypt are threatened by World Jihad terrorism no less than Israel," Bukai explained. "Bin Laden has appointed Musa Abu Zarkawi as the Amir [commander] not only of Iraq, but of the entire Middle East. Egypt is thus threatened by the Al-Qaeda terrorism emanating from Sinai - and this terror can easily reach Israel and Saudi Arabia as well. Jordan, too, knows that Abu Zarkawi - his name indicates that he is of Zarka in Jordan - is interested in taking over Jordan perhaps even more than he wants Iraq. That's why Egypt and Jordan feel threatened.

CHURCH CAMP-OUT

July 28-30

Where and what is Beverly Beach? It is just north of Newport on the Oregon Coast.Beverly Beach is popular for a reason! Like magic, a well-known walkway goes under the highway and emerges to the long expanse of sandy beach extending from Yaquina Head (you can see the lighthouse from here) to the headlands of Otter Rock. When the weather cooperates, kites color the air and whip in the wind. Bring a bucket and build a sandcastle! Surfers often head to the north beach, while folks looking for fossils head south.A few steps from the ocean you'll find the forest-sheltered campground. Giant, wind-sculpted trees and nurse logs surround the campsites strung along pebbly Spencer Creek. There is a Visitors Information Center located near the registration booth where you can also purchase books, souvenirs or educational toys. The children*s playground is located next to the program area. The picnic area is a grassy, tree-lined spot protected from summer winds by a charming yurt group meeting hall. It's hard to believe all this is a few minutes drive from the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Yaquina Head and other prime attractions. So, now is the time to put July 28-30 on your calendar.

FAMILY CAMPOUT

Pastor Jerry has included some information on the campgrounds itself. Take a look. It is a miracle that we got so many spaces by the beach at all! Be ready for a great time. Be looking for official sign up opportunities at the end of May or first week of June. All information on price and options will be made available at that time. This summer is going to be a Summer of the Word for HB (Heritage Builders) families. June 4th is our next HB night where we will kick off the summer and plan ahead for this campout! Yes, the campout is open to all people of our church. Please come and join the families with kids and let's enjoy the company and strength of the whole family of God.

Missionary of the Month

Dave & Ruth Harrison

Dave & Ruth have been serving in China as teachers. Dave recently suffered a heart attack. This has changed their plans for the future. Here's their story.

"Things are falling into place for us as we prepare to return to the U.S. Our daughter Kathleen and granddaughter Joanna are coming to help in June. Our daughter Janet has been looking for a car for us and found one that seems to be the right one to buy. We should "have wheels" when we arrive home in Washington on June 24th. Our daughter Mary is helping with business matters. Thanks for continuing to remember our remaining time at the college. Recent events have changed our plans. We are no longer planning to move to Singapore for the job opportunity with our organization. We will be returning to the U.S. and will take a 6-month Home Assignment to visit as many supporters as possible. After that we will officially retire, but we plan to continue to take some short-term teaching trips, write some materials, and do some cross-cultural training as in the past. We want to learn some technology to help us use online distance learning and teaching. We believe that Father still has some work for us to do."

HEADS UP!

We want to give you a heads up on something exciting. Eileen Straub is pregnant (which I am sure you know), but pregnancy leads to a great many things. With the fact of new baby added to two girls in the family and much to do in the scope of raising a family, Eileen is making the right choice to step down from her position as Children's Director helping me out tremendously. God is faithful and has provided Kelly Alvarez to step up into her place. The month of May has been seeing this transition happening quite well. I am excited about Kelly and working with her. I have complete confidence in her abilities. Pray for the Straub family and the Alvarez family as these changes impact their lives. We will be honoring Eileen and her work in a service in June. Pastor Mark

Colligan's Callings

Someone got saved!!!! Yes, praise God! We had a freshman pray to receive Christ as Savior last week at our Tombstone Party. Thanks to Bob for the dry ice and to Sam for the broken pieces of granite and marble and to Curt for helping Kevin and I out immensely! Most thanks to the youth who have been faithful in bringing friends and reaching out to the people God is putting in their path. Oh that we might all become bolder and bolder about the Savior of our souls. Greatest thanks to Christ for His faithfulness to us! God moved last week as we looked at the inevitable future of us all. Did you know the death rate in Oregon is 100%? When we stand in front of God, what will we have to say? What did our life amount to? What will be written on our tombstone? How about the people around you? Please, live for Jesus, people, and the Kingdom of God! Pray for Alyssa in her new faith in Christ.
Pastor Mark

From a student who manages our youth ministries' weblog info page: Something I wanted to share with y'all. So, today at my school, we had a very interesting chapel. The speaker was telling us about how we need to listen to God (something we all know but don't always do), and he continued to go on about some of the times that he had listened to God and what happened. One in particular stuck out to me. He was playing soccer one day and there was a man that he had just met the week before. He told the man when he met him that he was a youth pastor. But this particular week, the man came up and said to him, "I was raised Hindu but I have no idea what that means. What does it mean to be a Christian?" Now, the youth pastor was going to be late to the youth night if he stayed and talked to him, but he heard God tell him to stay. He then heard God say to describe being a Christian like a hill. "This is what the pastor said. "Being a Christian is like a hill with a cross on it. Everyone in the town below can tell you everything about that cross. But it's a totally different experience when you make the journey to go up that hill, touch the cross and see all the amazing things on the other side that you would have never seen if you didn't go up the hill." "The man then began to cry. After a while of awkward silence, the man told the pastor that he had a dream about a hill with a cross on it a couple days ago but had been confused about why he had that dream. When I heard this story, I wanted to just cry. It's amazing how awesome God is, yet as Christians, we tend to take it for granted. My encouragement to you guys is to not get stuck in the same routine everyday without listening to God. He's talking to you. Wouldn't it be great to hear what your Creator had to say?

Waveland Mission Trip

When we started preparing for this trip we talked about having 20 people go to Waveland to help with the recovery. There were some skeptical that we would have 20 signed up to go. Well, actually more than 20 showed interest, but some are unable to go because of various reasons. However, we have exactly 20 committed to attend. PRAISE GOD.

On May 17th we sent a check to United Airlines to pay for 20 round trip tickets for the group. Vans are reserved in New Orleans to transport the group (and their luggage) the 50 or so miles to Waveland.*They will be staying in very spartan accommodations, but in the lap of luxury compared to when Tom Sauerwein and I were there last fall.*We set as a goal for our fund raising $12,000. We have now reached $10,634. PRAISE GOD.

We do need the balance of the funds to be able to pay for the rental vans, and to give our group a little on hand cash. Those traveling have raised over $4,000 themselves, several still have fund raising projects going on. If you haven't contributed yet, and are willing and able to do so, it is not too late. All contributions are gladly accepted at any time.

(NOTE: SINCE THE ORIGINAL WRITING OF THIS ARTICLE WE ARE NOW OVER $14000 WHICH MEANS WE HAVE MORE THAN REACHED OUR GOAL.

Women's Ministries Cookbook

The Women's Ministries group is publishing a cookbook to help offset expenses for the Women's Retreat next fall. We have well over 200 recipes now. Keep listening for details as to cost and when it will be available. This is an excellent way to add to your recipe repertoire and contribute to a good cause.Thanks to all of you who have contributed recipes and have helped out typing and editing.

LLOYD BARON HONORED

Hillsboro Chamber has chosen Lloyd as this year's Distinguished Citizen Award recipient For years Lloyd has been a major player in providing green space and attractive appointments to Hillsboro's parks. Each honoree received a glass plaque with their name and award. Lloyd also received $500 from the Hillsboro Argus to give the charity of his choice.
As many of you remember, Lloyd was honored nationally for the work that he did on the Rood Bridge Park rhododendron gardens that are now named for him.
We have appreciated his contribution over the years to the grounds and facilities of First Baptist.
Congratulations to Lloyd Baron once again for a job well done.

WAVELAND DIARY

"DON'T FORGET US"

(Diary entry by Mary Perkins)

It is eight months since Hurricane Katrina roared through my hometown and the rest of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It*s hard to believe that it was that long ago, since much hasn*t changed.
Today the puppy and I went for a ride. The weather was getting bad, real windy. The water was washing up on the beach road, which it does when bad weather comes from the southeast. But it was so sad. The beach is just empty. The streets between the railroad tracks and the beach are just flat land. There are some trailers, and some are beginning to rebuild.
But then we went down to Clermont Harbor and Lakeshore, two communities west of Waveland. There, it breaks your heart. There is absolutely nothing. NO structures standing, no rebuilding, few trailers. There are still mounds of debris: roofs from houses, People*s sheds, decks, piers and the special belonging of the owners. Where you do see trailers, you see pieces of furniture up against the trailer, tables with glassware, sliver and other personal items.
The other night I heard Brian Williams from NBC say that people e-mail him and tell him to quit reporting about Katrina. That's over. There are other things going on in the world. Report about that. I am afraid that the country is forgetting us and we do not need to be forgotten. We still need help, and lots of it. Of course, Brian Williams said that NBC is committed to reporting our story and will continue to do so. That made me feel good. And Kathleen Koch with CNN has not forgotten us. She continues to come here and report on what*s going on.
On a lighter note, Friday I got my building permit. What a great day!! Now the task at hand is getting the foundation prepared and the slab poured by June. In June, a group of volunteers are coming to frame up my house -- for FREE!! All I have to do is provide the materials. So, I guess there are some of you out there that have not forgotten us. Thank you so much for your caring and volunteering.

May 2006

2006-05-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Pastor Propst's Ponderings

Waveland -- Why?

On the 30th of April John Sailors asked people to get up and tell why they wanted to go to Mississippi. I plan to go, the Lord willing.

Want to know a secret? Part of me really doesn't want to go. Why? I like my comfortable bed. I take no pleasure in seeing destruction and devastation. I have no particular attraction to human suffering. I don't like hot, humid weather and I certainly don't like bugs that bite.

So, the part of me that likes to be comfortable shrinks from the idea of immersing myself into someone else's troubles. But there is another part of me that feels compelled to go. The love of Christ. Paul speaks of privation and persecutions, beatings and imprisonments, shipwrecks and all manner of deprivation. And then he says, "I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. 2 Cor 12:10"

Just as the love of Christ compels us to tell the good news, so the love of Christ compels us to go where there is need and commit ourselves to the care of others. We are the demonstration of Christ's love to people, some of whom have not yet understood who Jesus is. Jesus said, "And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward." Matt. 10:42

A cup of cold water, something that quenches thirst and refreshes the body, given in the name of Christ is a powerful demonstration of God's love. How much more the efforts to help a person rebuild their shattered life?We will be serving as the goodwill ambassadors of the king of heaven. Money is something any of us can give, even a government agency. But the hand that wields the hammer, that cleans up the debris, that ministers to the person as a person does far more than any government grant can do.

As important as government aid can be in reconstruction, it typically lacks the personal touch. People need a friendly touch, a hand up instead of a hand out. We can provide that. The work we will be doing will not necessarily be ministering to Christians. We will be ministering to people of all stripes.

Here at home, I have the unpleasant task of assisting the police department in the delivery of death notices. I never feel good about going to someone's home and telling them that their loved one will not be coming home. But every once in a while Iam honored to touch the grieving person and help them carry a burden that might otherwise be too heavy for them. It is that same hope of helping that prompts me to go to Mississippi. I know that the others who are planning to go share this burden.You may not be able to go, but you can help those who will go. You can pray for them. You can help them financially. You can make it possible for us to deliver a love offering to the churches we are working with so that the work can go on even after we come home.
Pastor Jerry

*Unlocking TheDaVinci Code*
May 21 - 6:00 p.m.

Where does fact end and fiction begin? Is historical Christianity a fourth century invention? Was the divinity of Christ voted on at the Council of Nicaea? Were Jesus and Mary Magdalene married? *The Da Vinci Code* has grown from popular fiction to cultural phenomenon, inciting controversy on all sides.

On Sunday night, May 21 the CCN network, via satellite will be answering those questions. Lee Strobel, author of the *The Case for Christ,* Mark Mittelberg, Executive Director of Evangelism at Willow Creek Association, and Dr. Erwin Lutzer, Senior Pastor of Moody Church and author of *The Da Vinci Deception* will co-host the event.

Invite your friends. This is a great opportunity to get some discussion going with a person who is asking questions about faith.

Missionary of The Month

Dick Halas

Chaplain with Tuality Healthcare

Dick Halaas serves as chaplain to the patients and employees at Tuality Hospital. He also oversees an extensive volunteer program. For years Dick was a pastor in the Christian Church, but when Ray Holder retired as chaplain, Dick was called to take his place. With his friendly demeanor and quick wit he has been a capable encourager of patients and employees alike. So, when you are in the hospital, you not only can call your pastor to come visit you, you can also ask to talk with Chaplain Halaas. Please remember that under the new HIPPA guidelines, you have to let the hospital staff know that you would be open to a visit from the chaplain.

Colligan's Callings

The Battleship has left the harbor!

The youth group is now a Youth Ministry. You may think, "That's nothing new." Well in some ways you'd be right and in some ways--NOT. You see, we've been talking about the difference between Cruise Ships and Battleships. On these different ships people ask different questions. For example, on a Cruise Ship people ask: "Am I enjoying this?" "When is my next dinner?" "Do I like what I am eating?" "Am I having fun?" "Am I getting my money"s worth?" "What is the next thing I get to do?" These questions are natural and right on a cruise. On a Battleship, the soldiers (seamen) ask much different questions: "What's our mission?" "What's my role in this mission?"

The youth group has decided to go from cruise control to battle-mode.

First, and foremost, is the E-Team, a group of students who want to serve Christ and make our group of youth a ministry.

Second of all, there is the commitment that our gatherings get better and better and the GOSPEL is shared consistently with expectation that new ears will be there to hear.

Thirdly, the students are more and more taking up the role of Prayer-Dare-Share.

In this they pray daily for their friends, dare their friends to join them in pursuing God (via youth group, church, conversations, etc.), and sharing what it means to trust and follow Jesus Christ as they share the gospel with those friends. Sounds like the work ALL Christians have been called to. Oh yeah, great suggestion - youth travel on cruise ships. Great commission - youth accomplish much on battleships.

How does Heritage Builders fit into this concept? I am glad you are curious (or at least I am assuming you are). I have been pushing my agenda now for many months. We CANNOT raise our kids by accident Intentional spiritual growth through discipleship of our young ones is the ONLY way. And there is NO WAY to do it alone. We desperately need each other. Each family/household needs the strength of the others around us. The world "outside" desperately needs us to reach out to them. The lessons, homework, and sheer rhetoric of Heritage Builders' Family Nights is designed to get us off of cruise control Christianity and into battle for the spiritual heritage of our kids' kids and for the people God has put around us entrusting us as their ministers. Cruising creeps in through chaos, decisions, faulty thinking, struggles, and selfishness we all need the growth and challenge of HBN. Blessings to you all. Pray for your youth. Pray for your families. Pray for and join the mission!
Mark Colligan

COMING EVENTS:

May

7 Heritage Builders 5 p.m.
13 Mother/Daughter Tea
14 Mother*s Day Celebration (No Evening Service)
20 Cancer Society Brunch Fundraiser
21 Da Vinci Code Simulcast

June

3 Women's Ministry Bake Sale
18 Father's Day Celebration
21 Promotion/Graduation Sunday
24 Waveland crew leaves for Mississippi

FAMILY CAMPOUT

July 28-30
Beverly Beach, Oregon

Here's a great time to get away, enjoy your family, and enjoy the company of other brothers and sisters in Christ. Bring your trailer, RV, or tepee. Check with Pastor Mark for further details. Watch for future announcements.

WOMEN'S MINISTRY BAKE SALE
Saturday, June 3, 2006

The ladies of First Baptist will be holding a bake sale to subsidize their fall retreat. If you wish to assist by donating some of the ingredients that they will need, please contact Kelly Alvarez. This is a prime opportunity to make it possible for people go who might otherwise not be able. And, of course, purchasing the baked goods is very important as well.

MOTHER/ DAUGHTER TEA
Theme: *Treasures of The Past*
Speaker: Janelle Hoeffner

Janelle is the wife of Mark Hoeffner, Director of CB Northwest. Janelle and Mark have adopted a number of children over the years. Some of them have disabilities. God has used them in significant ways to touch many lives for Christ.

When: Saturday, May 13, 12 Noon
Where: Fellowship Hall
Tickets
10 years & Under -- $5
Over 10 years -- $10

Note: You don*t have to be a mother to come; being a daughter is just fine. Come and enjoy a great time together.

ISRAEL TODAY
NA-ALEH

"And Caleb settled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it." (Numbers 13:30)

It was these words that inspired two dozen pioneering families to "go up" and establish a new
home on a barren hilltop in Samaria at the height of the violence of the first intifada in 1988. They named their new home, "Na-aleh" which means to "go up." Nestled on a beautiful hilltop on the Western slopes of the Samarian mountains, this pastoral community grew and prospered. From the peak you can see the runways of Ben Gurion International Airport and the Mediterranean Sea. Its proximity to the Modi'in region, near the Airport, attracted many families who worked at nearby Israel Air Force Industries.

Today the community numbers some 200 families, with over 190 young children. Na-aleh's diverse population grew very rapidly, with new homes and neighborhoods added to the landscape in a very short period of time. Infrastructure and public works projects struggled to keep pace. With the outbreak of violence in 2000, security needs took precedence and the community has been struggling to make up for lost time.

The community lacks public buildings, such as a synagogue and ritual bath. Children study in neighboring communities. Within the community is a kindergarten and daycare center.The community*s growth and development are a source of pride to the residents, and they wish to strengthen their community with permanent edifices that further stake their claim to the land and communicate their commitment. The residents wish to complete renovations to improve the building that houses their community center and local municipal offices building so that it is suitable for a variety of social and communal purposes, such as a library and classrooms, and comfortable to use throughout the year.

April 2006

2006-04-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

PASTOR PROPST'S PONDERINGS

The Free Will of Man and the Sovereignty of God
One of the developments in theology in recent years has been the notion that God is somehow not privy to all things and that even He might be caught by surprise by the actions of man. The theory goes that in His sovereignty He is always able to adjust for the aberrations of man so that His ultimate plan is not thwarted. In other words, God only guesses at what you are going to do and then He adjusts His plan. Because He is a better chess player, so to speak, He still always wins

I have chosen a section of the story of King Saul to deal with this issue. Before Saul became king, his father's donkeys had wandered off. Saul and his companion were sent to look for them. Being unsuccessful in finding them they became worried that the family might begin to worry about the two of them. So, they decided to inquire of a Prophet or Seer to help them locate the donkeys. Samuel was the prophet to whom they decided to turn. The omniscience and power of God are easily seen in what follows.

Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear the day before Saul came, saying, "Tomorrow about this time I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him commander over My people Israel, that he may save My people from the hand of the Philistines; for I have looked upon My people, because their cry has come to me." And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said to him, "There he is, the man of whom I spoke to you. This one shall reign over My people." Notice that God says, "I will send (to) you."

Now, if the knowledge of God were subordinated to the whimsy of man, this little episode could easily have gone awry. Saul could have changed his mind. Samuel could have chosen to be somewhere else. Someone, anyone, could have interrupted the process. The moment that the LORD tells Samuel what is going to take place the next day, God is on trial. If it doesn't happen, then God is wrong! If He doesn't know all things then His predictive powers are uncertain.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Saul is totally oblivious to the purposes of God. He has had no vision from God. There is no little voice whispering in HIS ear to go to where Samuel is. He has no awareness that God is at work in this series of events in his life. He feels no external compulsion. He is not moving as a robot might. But as sure as there is a God in heaven, he is moving in a direction that serves the purposes of the Lord. And God takes credit for Saul's actions.

But Saul had no idea as to what God was doing. The man thought he was acting on his own volition. But even in his choices he was carrying out the purposes of God. Following this story, and Samuel's anointing of Saul, Samuel, under the authority of the Lord, tells Saul what will happen next. He does so in intimate detail. You can read it for yourself in 1 Samuel 10:1-10.

Here's an important principle - the more variables there are in a given scenario, the more difficult it is to predict the outcome. In this case, the more people that are included in something, the more likelihood that the activities of any given individual or group within that group are unpredictable. Yet, in this instance as elsewhere in scripture, the prediction of God comes true.

This brings me to the conclusion that God's knowledge is perfect and His will is never frustrated by man's choices. Man has the power of choice. But his choices are never outside the scope of God's knowledge nor of His purposes.
Pastor Jerry

LIBRARY CORNER

Linda Arnold is pleased to announce that the library has several new books on the shelves. The newest one is Total Forgiveness by R.T. Kendall. What an awesome book on the difficult and extra rewarding challenge of forgiving, a new frontier for our minds. How could we less than forgive when Christ died to free us from every hidden wrong? This is a book everyone should read.

WATCH OUT FOR WATER IMPOSTERS!

Media sources have recently reported that imposters posing as water employees are trying to gain entrance into people's homes. The Hillsboro Water Department and Tualatin Valley Water District (TVWD) want you to know that although we may knock on your door to ask a few water-related questions, we will never ask to enter your house without a previous appoint-ment. Also, employees of the Hillsboro Water Department and TVWD always drive "E-plate" vehicles and carry identification badges. If someone knocks on your door claiming to be from the water department or the water district, ask to see their ID badge or call and check with Hillsboro (503) 615-6702, or TVWD (503) 642-1511. Leave the person standing outside at the door while you are making your call!

MISSIONARY CORNER

Rod & Angelika Ragsdale -- Cote d'Ivoire
Recently we began a 15 week theological training course at our church in Bouake. We had about 7 students turn up for the first lesson which was simply a test which I had prepared to try to help each student realize where he might need to do some study as we go into this class. The main reason for the class is to help those who want to learn how to better preach and teach the Word of God as leaders in our community. We have an interesting collection of young men, older men and a couple of women who have signed on and have agreed to pay the 250 CFA (approx. 50 cents) per 2 hour class.

We are encouraged by the enthusiasm and interest expressed by the students and their involvement in the life of the church. Pray that the things shared in this class will be useful and helpful to our community here in Bouake and beyond.

We have had some interesting situations that are certain to come to a head as we go through the different aspects for what it is to lead in the church and what exactly it means to teach in the church context. In the words of Alfred Kuen, the teacher is tied to what he teaches. Unlike other occupations, to teach or preach the Word demands a corresponding lifestyle which attributes honor to the One who is the subject of our teaching. To do, or live, otherwise is to neutralize the message and in many cases can bring more harm to the Kingdom than good. As I think about that, I am more impressed than ever of the weight of the task before us.

MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY

Did you notice that our church is growing? We have had a number of babies born in recent months and we have more on the way! Would any one be interested in praying for a baby's first year? Please contact the church office

EASTER IS APRIL 16TH

There is so much planned for this day. It will begin with a "donations only" breakfast being served from 8:00-9:00 and from 9:30 to 10:30 with the first service beginning at 9:00am and the second service beginning at 10:45. The menu will be cheese omelets, pancakes, bacon, sausage, cinnamon rolls, juice and coffee. We encourage you to bring your unsaved friends and family members for Christian family fellowship and to hear how Christ is working in our lives. Also, do you have a story to tell? Have you felt the Lord working in a particular area of your life? We would love to hear from you on Easter. Please speak with Pastors Jerry or Mark about how we can help you share about how you are stepping out in faith and how God is working in your life. We want to hear how God is working in your life because that is how HE is working in our church.

YOUTH NEWS

The green van glided along blissfully just past Seattle and onto Redmond, WA. With a quick stop at Timberlake Church to drop off our gear, a quick swing by Wendy's for "dinner" then we are finally off to Overlake Christian Church for a conference with 2700 students called Dare 2 Share.

It was well worth the effort and travel. God gripped our hearts! In short we learned God's number one calling in our life is to be a 'Loser' for Christ and the Kingdom of God. Matthew 10:39 says: "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." We are to give of our lives in the sharing of Christ with everyone around us. We learned about the "giants" in our lives such as little David's life when he faced off with that giant Goliath. Like David, if we look up to God (specifically the power of the Trinity), we look in to who God has made and gifted us to be, and look out to who God is bringing in our paths to impact with the Gospel we can slay our giants in front of us. When we follow God with no reserve and fear of man, Goliath WILL fall and fall hard! For our youth it simply means this: we are now a youth ministry. Not just a youth group, but a ministry.

We are not here for us alone, but for what God wants to do through us. We started with the '48 hour challenge' which a number of the kids took seriously and engaged friends or family members within 48 hours of the conference with the truth of Christ.

I am truly proud of the youth who are really seeking to lose their life and serve God. Another step has been the recreation of the games room in the upper level of the CE building. We desire a place to "be." We have always been blessed with space and support from the church which we are very thankful for, we are seeking to take advantage of that.

During Spring Break, we inaugurated the room with a movie night which had 5-6 new friends of our students. We watched KONG, ate pizza, shared the Gospel, and had a number of laughs (mainly mocking the film). On to equipping: We will be spending the next few weeks forming and training our "E-Team," short for evangelism team. The truth is it is much easier to do ministry in team than alone.

We will be learning how to help each other out in practical ways. Praying, being accountable, finding answers to hard questions, and improving our youth meetings. We will be learning and taking the D2S challenge of Prayer Dare-Share. Daily prayer for our unsaved friends, Daring them to come to youth group and church with us, and Sharing the Gospel journey with them as their friends after those times together. Pretty basic? Yes, but difficult, as Satan is waging war against our efforts. I would ask that you be in prayer for your youth ministry in a few ways.

First, that the students would not lose sight of their call to ministry and really be bold with their discipleship and faith.

Second, that we would see fruit from our efforts. So often it is easy to lose heart and zeal when you don't see change or God at work, so we all need the encouragement of changed lives. Finally, please seek the Lord about helping out on a regular basis with the youth ministry. There are no age requirements, just heart requirements. Could He be leading you to impact this ministry with your ministry?

Pastor Mark

FOOD PANTRY MINISTRY

The food closet is in need of more items. The following items would be ideal to pack a grocery sack to give for a family of two for one week. Please place the filled bags with your items in the foyer in the food box. There are already a number of rice items, so please do NOT include any at this time. PLEASE, NO glass jars OR perishable items.
Dried potatoes,scalloped, mashed, au gratin

canned meats, ham/ tuna/chicken

canned vegetables

canned fruits

boxes of macaroni & cheese

canned stew with meat

Hamburger helper

Cereal (oatmeal or Corn Flakes)

Spaghetti noodles

Spaghetti sauce (NO glass jars)

Canned soups

Jar of peanut butter

Canned pasta (ravioli, Spaghettios, etc.)

OPTIONAL ITEMS:

Crackers, boxed juice drinks, baby food (non-perishable), flour, sugar, jam or jelly, cake mix, Jell-O, baked beans. If you have any questions please contact the church office.

SMALL GROUPS

Feeling like you need a place to plug in? Or, a place to grow spiritually? Try one of our small groups there are several available. Please check in the foyer or contact the church office.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS
April 16th -- Easter

2 services 9:30 & 10:45

June 24th Waveland Mission Trip

July 28-29th Family Campout @ Beverly Beach

September 22nd & 23rd Quilt Show

October 6th-7th Women's Retreat

HFBC Mission trip to the Gulf Coast

We have over 20 people showing interest in our Mission trip to Waveland, MS. We have booked 20 airline seats and three vans for transportation while there. There will be a fund-raising dinner after Church service on Sunday, April 30th. Please plan on attending, we need everyone's support to make this a success. During the dinner several of those going will be explaining their calling for this trip, we will also be showing before and after slides of several homes in Waveland to show the utter and complete distruction. You will also be able to see what Waveland looked like while Tom Sauerwein and John Sailors were there last fall, plus some of the people they worked with while there. Please contact either John Sailors or Mark Colligan to have your name included on the list. Start praying now.