THIS IS US: FSBCAMDEN

 

Tis the Season to Serve

When we head in to the holidays as a church, there is so much excitement about getting to serve our community in a special way.

What a blessing to see the church come together.  It began at Trunk or Treat in October as Kasia put together a wonderful night. The Church was then to be able to offer another great meal for Thanksgiving.  Joetta and Wendy planned so well with a committed group of volunteers. To be able to partner with Williams Blvd. Baptist in Kenner, Louisiana after Hurricane Ida has been a real blessing.That came as we were being part of Operation Christmas Child once again and 226 boxes later.  Amy Circle McIntosh and her girls with over 100 of those.  What a ministry! 

Recently we had a guest come and the need was recognized for a new winter coat and immediately the Men's Sunday School Class met the need.  We have watched our funeral hospitality team led by Regina and Don Bridge continue to bless families who have lost loved ones with a wonderful meal. (Will do it twice this week) We have lost nine members since September. (Malcolm Paxton, Norma Woods, Dick Fritzsche, Troy Sullivan, Gene Sandlin, Darold Chaney, Majorie Crouch,and this week Raleigh Melton and Elaine Vivian.)  Pray for all of these families and those spending their first Christmas with an empty seat at the table. Thank you all for never complaining when it comes to helping those who are grieving. Only when we are in their shoes, will we understand the importance of the blessing this ministry is. Roy and Cathy keep our food pantry stocked and we were blessed by National Trail and Preble Shawnee with donations this year. These ministries represent us. FSBCamden.

We have had generous gifts given, some from folks who don't attend wanting to help others have a better Christmas. We are now getting ready to collect items for the Buckets of Joy for our Shut Ins.  This was a ministry that began a long time ago with Dorothy Holland and Edith Colclasure, then Nancy Coon, making something special to pass out to those unable to get out. Betty Clevenger has been so faithful over the years to not forget those at home.

Then  it comes to a crescendo as we give to Lottie Moon to help support International Missionaries in a Victory March on Dec. 19th.  Our goal is 6,033. (Oh Yes...Bob and Keith will be ready for treat bag Sunday!)

Marcia working hard with all three choirs for Christmas, Kasia, her Team, and the Youth continue to get stronger and stronger, Amber Rogers doing a great job as our  Nursery Ministry Director with a dedicated team, and Terry Moore and her team faitfhfully leading Children's Church each week.

Faithful folks doing sound and video, along with a worship team leading us weekly.  Ron Super and a group of faithful teachers leading each week. Safety team faithfully serving each week. Linda managing our prayer chain and keeping us focused. Judy faithfully managing the office doing such a great job.

Jay and Donna keeping our buildings looking great. The Decorating Team  decorated so beautifully for the season!

Why mention names, as often I don't?   Because this represents all of us.  Serving the Lord through His church.  When we all desire to have our focus upon Jesus, we don't compete against one another, but team together. We partner together to serve for His glory. So when someone leads, amen.  When someone serves, amen. When a trashcan is emptied, amen.  It is not who does it, but that it gets done. This is us.  This is who God has called us to be.  Servants for His glory.

Why did Jesus come?  He told us in Luke 19:10 ^"  for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
He chose to come as a servant and models that for us. One group I haven't mentioned are the Deacons.  They are the picture of servants. Their wives as well are behind the scenes many times serving for us.

Christmas time is a busy time as many will be helped because you are part of a church desiring to serve and to share the hope that comes only in Jesus.

We will help many this Christmas that you won't hear about, but we represent you.  Remember, it is always the season to serve.