“Go, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit…” Matthew 28:19 NIV
First Baptist Church
Praying for North Korea According to Open Doors USA, a non-profit that has been working for over 60 years in countries where Christians are persecuted and oppressed, North Korea is #1 on their “watch list.” Anyone caught with a Bible, praying or worshiping is quickly shipped off to one of the country’s massive concentration camps.1 Often, as Christians in a relatively safe country, we don’t know how to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters. Open Doors USA suggests 5 verses to use as a start to praying for North Koreans. 1. “And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39) Leader Kim Jong Un has unleashed a storm of persecution on tens of thousands of his own people, including Christians. Pray that the power of Christ will sweep the nation and calm this furious storm. 2. “But Jesus called them to him, saying, ‘Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.’” (Luke 18:16) As in Hitler’s Germany of the 1930’s, children in North Korea are taught blind loyalty to their leader and often report their own parents if they try to pray with them or talk about the Lord. Pray for strength and the Spirit of God to override this brainwashing of the children.
3. “Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.’” (John 4:10) Women in North Korea have it perhaps the hardest, often forced to work in prostitution or forced to marry abusive men. Pray for healing and restoration for them. Cont. on page 3
Thinking Theologically/Harvest Supper……………...…………..…….....………………………….…………………..
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Praying for North Korea cont/Thank Yous………………………………………………………………………………...
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Board Reports/Small Groups..……………..……………………………………………………...…………………………….
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Prayer Partners………………….…………..………………………………………………………………………………………….
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Prayer Concerns/Birthdays/Anniversaries/Library News………………………………………………….……..
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Opportunities to Give & Serve…………………..……..……...…………………………………………..……………….…….
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Church Calendar………………………………………………………………………………………………...……….……..…..…...
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Published monthly by First Baptist Church, 709 Independence St, Pella, IA 50219. All rights reserved.
First Baptist Church 709 Independence St Pella, IA 50219 Rev. Jay Thornton
[email protected] Rev. Kara Krohg
[email protected]
Regular Office Hours: Phone: Email: Website: Admin. Assistant: Custodian:
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Mon - Fri 641.628.3401
[email protected] fbcpella.org Ann Millar Merlin Van Dyk
some simple instructions adapted from Nouwen on how to practice Lectio Divina: 1. Choose a passage of scripture to read aloud, slowly, attentively, once through. Pause for a few minutes to left the passage sink in. Resist the familiar understanding, even of a familiar passage. Allow yourself to hear the story a new. 2. Reread the passage aloud, piece by piece. In a journal, note any questions raised. Again, resist the familiar interpretation. Look for a word or two in the story. Explore the passage the way a child might explore a strange room, in the spirit of curiosity and openness. What word or phrase stands out to you. Write it down in your journal.
Recently, we’ve talked about ways to experience the Word of God on Sunday Mornings. Prayer, listening and occasionally speaking to God, is one of the primary ways we are can till holy ground for God’s Word. One of my favorite writers, Henri Nouwen, says this about prayer:
3. Read the passage a third time. How is that word or phrase commanding your attention? Stay with that word or phrase as long as you can. Meditate on it. Chew on it. Speak it aloud. Is God speaking a personal word to you today? Contemplate the personal word for you today in the written Word. Live today in the joy the Living Word has spoken to you.
“Every time you listen with great attentiveness to the voice that calls you the Beloved, you will discover within yourself a desire to hear that voice longer and more deeply. It is like discovering a well in the desert. Once you have touched fertile ground, you want to dig deeper. This digging and searching for an underground stream is the discipline of prayer.” - pg. 34, Spiritual Direction
If you need help choosing a passage try Luke 4:18-19 or Psalm 40:1-3. Give it a try, I’d love to hear about your expeThere is one particular practice of prayer I find invigorating. riences with this spiritual discipline. It is called Lectio Divina (Latin for Divine Reading). It is a way to pray Scripture so that you can first, discover new dimensions of the specific passage and second, tap into the Grace and peace to you, fertile ground of the voice that calls you Beloved. Below are Pastor Jay
Many thanks to all who helped prepare, serve, and clean up after the Harvest Supper! Many hands make lighter work, and we trust you were blessed in the serving. Another round of thanks to all who bought tickets, came out, and enjoyed the warm food and fellowship! Your support of our mission projects this year is so very much appreciated! We trust you were blessed, and hope to see you all again next year! Arlin Harvey and the Men’s Fellowship
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4. “And Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’” (Matthew 14:28) Pray for empowerment for the North Korean Christians, that they may find each other and draw strength and courage from fellowship. Pray that, like Peter, they would hear the Lord’s call to walk out onto the unknown, keeping their eyes on Him. 5. “And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” (Luke 23:34a) There is blindness and deception in the leadership of this oppressed country. They need God’s forgiveness and freedom to see with the eyes of their hearts. Our prayers are so vital for their spiritual good! We all need the Lord to bring us from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light at some point in our lives (Colossians 1). Pray that God will forgive their sins as well as ours. You may be asking how you can help our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. Praying is first and foremost, as only God can bring to account the atrocities occurring in many places in the world today. You can also give to organizations such as Open Doors USA, Voice of the Martyrs, and others. Often persecuted peoples try to seek refuge in other countries, and the burden can be immense. Giving financially can help feed and clothe them as they try to rebuild lives. Pray and give to missionaries, as well, such as our American Baptist missionaries. They are quite literally Jesus’ hands and feet all over the world! You can read more about North Korea and other “hot spots” of oppression online at https://www.opendoorsusa.org/. 1https://www.opendoorsusa.org/christian-persecution/stories/5-bible-verses-pray-north-korea/? utm_source=OctoberOpenDoorsWeekly&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1710ODW1&utm_source=General+Subscription&utm_campaign=4c7a92b060EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_10_13&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_df4a07f94a-4c7a92b060-175845485
To our FBC family: Just a little update regarding the treatment I have been going through since the discovery of my cancer in May. The prognosis was quite a shock, especially when the doctor advised that without some aggressive action I probably had 3-8 weeks remaining! Since that time I have undergone 18 chemo infusions and will have more scans in a week to determine how all is progressing. The chemo takes a toll on the old body, but fortunately my most severe reaction has been low stamina. Looking ahead, I just keep my fingers crossed and praying! It’s definitely in HIS hands. To Pastor Jay and the many members who have sent cards, dropped by for a visit, called, and continued to pray for me, words cannot express the gratitude I have for all of you. You have helped to make a rough road much smoother. Thank you! Darrell Dobernecker
Thank you! We and our families wish to thank you, our church family, for the cards and gifts in honor of Pastor Appreciation month. We are blessed to be your shepherds, and look forward to what God has in store for us as a church in the coming year! Pastor Jay & Pastor Kara
Thank You one and all who sent birthday cards and wishes as I hit the BIG “80” last weekend. Your thoughtfulness was appreciated very much. Praise the Lord! Darrell Dobernecker
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WORLD MISSION OFFERING
Meeting dates in November: 8th & 29th.
Total received to date (10/22): $1,700
We delivered 3 boxes of items to Children & Family Urban Movement in Des Moines and we packed up some boxes for Crossroads of Pella to be used by individuals and families for themselves or as gifts. We usually deliver this donation early in November.
We will NOT meet in December.
Thank you for your generosity to the Food Shelf’s Thanksgiving Basket drive! We have received 61 cans of jellied cranberry sauce so far! Keep them coming - we need 200 cans by Nov. 15th. Thank you!!!
Remember that new people (any gender) are always welcome! If you have a friend or family member that would enjoy this mission, please invite them to join us. We are glad to teach you if you don’t know how to knit or crochet already! Otherwise, bring any project you are working on. It is inspiring to see new patterns, yarn, and projects and it enlivens our imaginations for new projects to begin.
In the aftermath of the devastation from this season’s hurricanes, American Baptist Home Mission Societies is seeking to raise $1 million in the next 6 months for their OGHS “Rebuilding, Restoring, Renewing Puerto Rico” initiative. Some of the pressing needs in Puerto Rico include bottled water, baby supplies, pain medication, mosquito repellant, and construction supplies. If you feel led to give to this effort, you can make your check out to the church and put “OGHS - Puerto Rico” in the memo line. You can also go online to www.abhms.org and click “Give Now.” 100% of all donations will be used for immediate needs and long-term recovery/rebuilding efforts. No dollars are retained for administrative costs.
Card Ministry for September - 27 birthday postcards, 15 postcards, and 5 other cards sent.
Deacons’ Fund - no funds used in September.
Cards and monetary gifts were presented to Pastor Jay and Pastor Kara in honor of Pastor Appreciation Month at the beginning of October.
Pastor Jay will be on vacation Oct. 30 - Nov 11. During that time, please contact the following if you have a need: Church Office:
641.628.3401
Pastor Kara:
701.412.3280
Gary Cottington:
641.780.0642
But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 John 3:17 ESV
Women, are you looking for a small group to connect with for a little Bible study, fellowship, and prayer? You are invited to attend Search & Grow! We meet the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the church parlor. It’s a great time to come because we are about to begin a new book study, Standing Up When Life Falls Down Around You, by Elizabeth Brown. Join us on Nov. 9th! Questions? Call Lovena Van Haaften at 641.628.3691.
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We have a vital ministry happening between generations at First Baptist Church with our Prayer Partners Ministry. Teens are paired with adults in a relationship built on prayer, fun fellowship, and support. This is so important as young people are making their way in a world that is often confusing, overwhelming, and sometimes hostile to living out the Christian faith. Please be praying for the prayer partners listed below, that they will grow close in the Lord together, share their spiritual walks with one another, and be able to withstand pressures in the world.
Dreyton Vander Werf & Randy Bogaards
Zara Pippel & Dawn Owens
Konner Vander Werf & Bob Owens
Sierra Vander Weerdt & Teri Buitenwerf
Erin Duenwald & Faye Dieleman
Kaleena Van Haaften & Grace Butler
Matthew DeKoning & John Dieleman
Lydia Taylor & Carolyn Scharff
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Dan Arnett
George Luhman
Carol Budding
Bea Mick
Cole Chavez
Jim Morris
Sgt. John Cogley
Lt A J Nunnikhoven
Darrell Dobernecker
Bob Peebler
LCpl Alex Ehler
Khloe Sassman
Joni Felton
Dan & Deb Scaperoth
Ken Heschke
Joel Tietjens
2nd Lt Wesley Hoksbergen
Pte. Matt Vos
The following books and movies were added to the church library in October: Orphan Keeper By Camron Wright Based on a true story! Julia’s Last Hope By Janette Oke (fiction) With All My Heart By June Masters Bacher (fiction)
Miracles for Women By Karen Kingsbury (non-fiction)
Cpl Donny Leget Vision Team:
Susan Sikkema
Maria Bogaards
Kelly Taylor
Jackie Harvey
Rev. Jay Thornton
Tim Lucas
Dreyton Vander Werf
Bob Owens
Chris Viesselman
Look for a good book or movie in the library or narthex this week!
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Konner Vander Werf
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Jason Van Haaften
Nov 7th:
Don & Bev Graves, 31 years
2
Gary Van Wyk
20
Karla Nossaman
3
Carol Budding
21
Gary Cottington
Nov 14th:
Johnnie & Maria Bogaards, 2 years
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Ron Vander Linden
Carolyn Scharff
6
Sally Bruinekool
Liz Vander Werf
Nov 17th:
Jay & Dawn Thornton, 16 years
Nov 21st:
Ken & Kathy De Vos, 36 years
Nov 21st:
Merlin & Verna Van Dyk, 44 years
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MaKenna Van Haaften
22
Albert Rouw
Keith Gates
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Kourtney De Vos
Wanda Vander Werf
Judy De Witt
10
Terry Lenox
Christian Krohg
11
Doug Bogaards
24
Bill Riherd
Molly Viesselman
25
Jeane Nossaman
12
Mary Roush
26
Bill Anderson
14
Shirley Cogley
30
Joshua Pierce
15
Dana Knoll
Pretense By Lori Wick (fiction)
Marriage should be honored by all… Hebrews 13:4 May God bless these marriages with deeper love, forgiveness and grace, health and joy!
Don’t see your birthday or anniversary in the newsletter? Please call or email the church office with your information and it’ll be added to the list!
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Food Shelf Thanksgiving Drive:
November Van Driver:
200 Cans of Jellied Cranberry Sauce by Nov. 15th
Jeff & Liz Vander Werf
**Checks can be made out directly to the Food Shelf**
Ron Vander Linden
628-3906
Van Coordinator: 780-3682
*Greeter Schedule:
September Donations: $420.00 and 121 items YTD: $1,556.00 and 760 items
11/5
Lois Allen & Tami Van Zante
11/12 Stan & Shirley Sneller
Thank you for supporting this important community service!
11/19 Tom & Shannan Duenwald
11/26 Arlin & Jackie Harvey
MEALS ON WHEELS Nov 13-22 There are still a few openings for you to deliver meals to area shut-ins. Please prayerfully consider volunteering with this important community service. Sign up in the narthex, take an instruction sheet, and be sure to leave a cell number if you have one. Thank you!
*Usher Schedule: 11/5
Diaconate
11/12 Arlin & Jackie Harvey Terry & Pam Mitchel 11/19 James & Robin Tietjens Ken & June Hoksbergen
Your Help is Needed
11/26 Doug & Vivian Vriezelaar
There are eleven known veterans within the church family. The goal for Quilt of Valor® Creators is to provide a quilt for each veteran. For each quilt, materials cost approximately $100.00. Will you prayerfully consider making a donation?
Paul & Jan Ostrander *Nursery (please sign up in the narthex): 11/5
Cassidy Bos & Catherine Pierce
11/12 Cassidy Bos & Shelby Sorenson
Currently the Quilt of Valor® Creators have three quilts near completion and presentation is weeks away. We sincerely appreciate the patriotic material donation of cotton fabric in red, white, and blue - plain and patterned, yardage of 1-2 yds are most welcome!
11/19 Cassidy Bos & Shelby Sorenson 11/26 Catherine Pierce (1 more person needed) *If you have a conflict, please switch with someone or find a replacement. Thank you!
Donations can be left in the church office. Questions? Contact Lovena Van Haaften @ 628-3691.
Daylight Savings Time Ends Nov. 5th Don’t forget to turn your clocks back one hour before you head to bed on Saturday, Nov. 4th!
Red Kettle Campaign December 8 - 9 Be watching for sign-ups for our annual Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign! Ring the bell to raise money to help people all over the world!
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First Baptist Church
Sun
Mon
Tue
Every Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Sunday School
7:00 p.m. Youth Group (12th/19th) CONNECT Wed, Nov. 1st Meal: Soup
Service Project: Military Care Pkgs
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6 Communion Sunday
RYE
12
7
14
19 Leadership Council 8:00 a.m. Fellowship Hall in use 2-5 p.m.
26 No Sunday School
20
21
3
8
Quilt of Valor® Creators 1-3 p.m.
15
RYE
9
16
22
10
11
17
18
Search & Grow 7:00 p.m.
Senior Citizen Lunch @ Country Club 11:30 a.m.
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Singles Outing To Humeston 10:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m.
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Office Closed 23rd & 24th
Mary Martha Circle 1:00 p.m.
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Singles Game Day 2:00 p.m.
Sat 4
CONNECT 5:45 p.m. Meal 6:30 p.m. Project 7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal
Deadline for Dec. Trumpeter
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Fri
1-3 p.m.
Quilt of Valor® Creators 1-3 p.m. 6:15 p.m. Handbell Rehearsal 7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal
Mission Board, Trustees 8:00 a.m.
Thu
of Valor® 1 QuiltCreators 2
6:15 p.m. Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. Stitches from the Heart 7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal
Baptist Women’s World Day of Prayer
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Wed
29
30
6:15 p.m. Handbell Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. Stitches from the Heart 7:30 p.m. Choir Rehearsal
Pastor Jay will be on vacation from Oct. 30 - Nov 11. If you need anything during that time, please call one of the following: Church Office Pastor Kara Gary Cottington
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34
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641.628.3401 701.412.3280 641.780.0642
