Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene, Hagerstown Indiana

Sunday, October 16th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:21:00 +0000

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and everyone that loves is born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:7) .

Welcome each other in Christlike love.

Jesus loved the church and gave His life for her to make her holy and clean without fault, washed by God’s cleansing word.

Christ mission was to the world but more important it was to the church. Like Jesus' early disciples the church is made up of flawed people who made their share of mistakes and mishaps.

The history of the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene over 90 years has included some not so great moments of fussing and feuding. Any church has its hypocrites who do not live up to the standards. But just as with any organization there are those who are lazy, dishonest, and who bring shame to the name of a business. So has the church suffered, and so has Jesus suffered for the church and gave His life for her.

But also you will find in the church some of the greatest people who ever walked in shoe leather. These are true saints who fought the good fight of faith, maintained their integrity, and lived a truly transformed and holy life.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

A young man called his mother and excitedly announced that he had just met the woman of his dreams. Now what should he do?

His mother had an idea: "Why don't you send her flowers, and on the card invite her to your apartment for a home-cooked meal?"

He thought this was a great strategy, and a week later, the woman came to dinner. His mother called the next day to see how things had gone.

"I was totally humiliated," he moaned. "She insisted on washing the dishes."

"What's wrong with that?" asked his mother.

"We hadn't started eating yet."

NEWS:

Children Quizzers went for their first Bible quiz yesterday at Indianapolis. They came home with bronze, silver and gold ribbons. They are mastering the book of Matthew. They meet every Sunday and Wednesday evening for study. Quizzing is one of the church's greatest tools for making Christlike disciples.

Prayers at the altar continue 8:00 p.m. each Monday. You may write your requests on the yellow card and place it in the offering plate. Prayer is the real work of the church for God's will to be done.

'Happiness is Serious Business' is our discipleship study on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. This study looks at the things that guarantee our happiness through Jesus' beatitudes.

Meekness is the present beatitude studied. Jesus' values are so much different than the world's.

Osborne Books Party is this Friday, October 21, 6:30 p.m. in the OutPost. This is for purchasing gifts for Christmas. The free books we receive will go to needy children. See Lori or Carol for more info.

Sunday School pony cart rides are planned for next Sunday following the church service. Everyone plan to attend Sunday School for this fun event.

Trunk O' Treat is planned for Saturday, October 29, in the church parking lot. This has been a fun time for our church to treat the children of the community. Plan on having a car trunk full of treats that will be a blessing.

Joe & Lois Rosolino are moving to New Jersey this week. They will be missed but never forgotten.

PrimeTime Event for our adult seniors is Thursday, Nov. 3, with the Perry Singing Family. The cost is $17 including a great meal. See Pastor if interested. The deadline is this Monday for a number from our church.

Baptismal Service is rescheduled for Sunday, Nov. 6, 6:00 p.m. We will have a combined zone service for the baptisms. Please see Pastor.

Hallelujah, it’s a sale! - outing to the Edinburg Outlets on Saturday, November 12^th. The church van will depart around 9 a.m.

'Engage the Word' Join us in a 40 day journey in reading main scripture passages from Genesis to Revelation. A reading chart provides a planned guide for individuals and family reading.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Nancy Williamson at 489-4898.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Oct. 16: All Church Pitch-in Fellowship

Teen Gathering, 7:00 p.m.

Fri. Oct. 21: Osborne Books Party, 6:30 p.m.

Sun. Oct. 23: Sunday School Pony Cart Ride

Sat. Oct. 29: Trunk O' Treat, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Sun. Nov. 6: Missionaries Samuel & Lumae Yangm

Church Board 'eat & meet'

Baptismal Service at Southview, 6:00 p.m.

Sat. Nov. 12: Hallelujah Sale Outing

Sun. Nov. 13: Christian Cavaliers singing group.

Sunday, October 2nd, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:08:00 +0000

Welcome on this first Sunday of October to worship the God of Fall beauty. Greet each other in the beauty of Christian friendship.

Jesus loved His disciples and didn't want them to forget why He came. He became close friends to them but wanted them to know His mission was to sacrifice Himself.
Today many Christians all over the world will take the Lord's Supper to remember the offering of Jesus' blood and body. And we are part of that great and wonderful family of God.
For 90 years the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene has continued the mission of Christ to a lost and needy community and world. They worked hard, prayed, believed, and witnessed to God's way of holiness.
As we take the Lord's Supper we participate with those who preceded us and wait for us at the wedding supper of the lamb.
Time is short and the day is far spent. We must work the work of Him who sent Jesus. People need the Lord. They hunger for heart holiness. Only in Christ are all our needs met. Let us live life to its fullness in Christ.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22
Bob was an unlucky sap. Having just spent megabucks on a skydiving class, he dove out of the airplane and pulled the ripcord. The chute emerged, tangled, and he cut it free. He then pulled the cord on the reserve chute, and it also was tangled. He prayed to his God and looked down to the ground below. To his amazement, a woman was coming up with equal velocity."Hey, you know anything about parachutes?" he shouted to her, as they passed by. The reply: "No... you know anything about Coleman stoves?"

Children enjoyed pizza and a movie last Friday with 27 boys and girls watching the movie, The Secret of Jonathan Sperry. Everyone had a great time.
Thank you, Carol and Lori, for organizing this.

Prayers at the altar continue 8:00 p.m. each Monday. Write your requests on the yellow card and place it in the offering plate. Prayer is the real work of the church for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Nancy Williamson at 489-4898.

Alabaster received a great offering of $227.54 last week. Your gift goes to building church buildings, health clinics, parsonages, and missionary equipment.
We celebrate the giving of Alabaster to missions as Mary Magdalene did by pouring the precious and expensive alabaster ointment on Jesus' feet.

Final Financial Statement for September reflects building, church bus, and unemployment compensation insurances. It is a big chunk of change but 'Praise the Lord' we were able to pay the whole annual premium.
'God is GOOD' and we are very grateful for your faith giving to advance the Kingdom of God through the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene.

Happiness is Serious Business is our discipleship study on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. This discipleship study looks at the things that guarantee our happiness through Jesus' beatitudes.
This Wednesday we'll study the beatitude of meekness. Jesus' values are so much different than the world's.

'Engage the Word' Join us in a 40 day journey through reading the scriptures for personal and family benefit. Reading the Word of God four times a week or more will have a significant impact on your world view, attitudes, and habits. Be sure you receive your reading schedule. There is a special plan for those with children.

Baptismal Service has been rescheduled to the first Sunday in November. Other churches on the zone have baptismal candidates. We will have a combined zone service for the baptisms.

Thank you, Thank you, Frank, Rex, Monty, Kerry, and Bob for installing a new water fountain, installing seven window shades, and removing a baseboard heater. "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven," said Jesus.

Joe & Lois Rosolino will be moving to New Jersey this month. We will miss this special couple. They have really endeared themselves to our hearts. We will never forget them. Keep them in your prayers as they make the final preparations to move October 17.

Church Calendar:
Sun. Oct. 2: Church Board 'eat & meet'
Tue. Oct. 4: Prayer with the Yorks, 10:00 a.m.
Sat. Oct. 8: Installation Service of our new district superintendent, Dr. Ron Blake, at the Camby Campground

Sunday, July 17th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:01:00 +0000

We welcome each of you to worship.

God loves you and we pray you’ll experience this love here today.

Spiritual insomnia

Studies show that most Americans don’t get adequate sleep.

Whether an overcrowded schedule or insomnia is to blame, the short- and long-term effects are alarming. It’s tough to maintain a healthy mind and body when you’re sleep-deprived.

Likewise, we require sufficient, regular quiet time and rest with God to stay spiritually healthy. Even Jesus needed time alone with God. If Jesus withdrew to deserted places to pray, how much more we need to spend time alone with God. It will transform us.

Jesus' time on The cross deserves Our attention and devotion. His cross is the supreme

expression of His love for us. "We love Him because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

NEWS -

Softball games are going quite well this summer with a good time of fellowship while enjoying the good weather and the health. But we sure could use more hallelujah cheerleading.

Phil, Karen, Pat, Sabra, Derek and others have worked hard to field our two teams.

Nettle Creek Faith Community Night is set for next Sunday, July 24, at the Richmond River Rats baseball field. The VIP gates will open at 4:00 p.m. for an pre-game inspirational concert. The game begins at 6:00 p.m. with the Richmond River Rats playing the Chillicothe Paints. Half of the ticket costs will go for the fundraising of Habitat for Humanity work in Hagerstown.

See Pastor Ames for the $5 tickets. This would be a excellent event to invite a friend to join you for a time of friendship.

Remember to pray for those traveling this summer.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Nancy Williamson at 489-4898.

Thank you, for faithfully bringing God's tithes and your offerings into the storehouse of the Lord. Without your stewardship our church could not minister in this community and could not provide a facility for worship and discipleship. "To God be the glory."

Tyler Brookshear has been deployed with the Marines to Afghanistan. We're sure he would like to receive correspondence from his hometown. Tyler is Karen Ferriell's cousin. Contact Pastor Fannin for his new address:

Church Calendar:

Fri. July 22: Richmond Softball, Diamond 2, 7:00 p.m.

Sat. July 23: Williamsburg Softball, 11:30 a.m.& 12:45 p.m.

Sun. July 24: Community Faith Night with the Richmond River Rats and a Gospel Concert, 4:00 p.m.

Fri. July 29: District Missionary Convention, 7:30 p.m.

Sat. July 30: District Missionary Convention, 8:30 a.m.

Sun. July 31: District Assembly Ordination Service, 5 p.m.

Mon. Aug. 1: District Assembly, 8:30 a.m.

Sunday, June 26th

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 14:40:00 +0000

Happy Father’s Day! We affirm the importance of good fathers on earth as we worship our perfect Father in heaven as his beloved children.

Like father, like child

As we celebrate Father’s Day, we likely see traits in our dads (or other father figures) that we hope to be known for ourselves: integrity, gentleness, a great sense of humor, a love of learning, a humble spirit.

Amy Grant’s song “Father’s Eyes” tells of a young girl who wants nothing more than for others to recognize her father in her. “When people look inside my life, I want to hear them say, ‘She's got her father's eyes.’”

The heart of the song centers on wanting others to recognize the eyes of her heavenly Father in her life.

What characteristics of God your Father are reflected in your eyes, heart and life? And what godly qualities would you like to cultivate?

May others see our heavenly Father in us!

NEWS --

Today is Father's Day. This special day recognizes the all-important role a father has in the life of his family. In a day when this role is diminished and being replaced by governmental social programs, family life in our culture is disintegrating. The father's role in the life of the family is crucial for the success of our children and the life of our society's basic building block- the family.

The success of our society depends upon the leaderships of our fathers in the family.

Vacation Bible School was this past week with about 70 kids attending and 14 staff workers. For five days the kids heard Bible stories, played sports, ate snacks, and memorized scripture.

Thanks to the all the VBS staff who worked with the children. You helped them to have a great and memorable week learning the things of God and providing the Mission to Meet A Risen Savior.

Church camp this summer for our children is July 5 - 8. It cost $135. If you would like to help send a camper, mark you donation 'children's camp'.

Thank you, for your faithful giving this summer. Without you our church would not be able to minister in this community and provide a place of worship to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Nancy Williamson at 489-4898.

Church Calendar:

Sun. July 3: From Olivet Nazarene University "All Things New"

Sunday, June 19th

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:36:00 +0000

Today as we celebrate the “birthday” of the Christian church, we rejoice that the gospel is proclaimed in many languages. Welcome!

In the Christian calendar today is remembered as the Day of Pentecost. This day comes from the Jewish festival that commemorates God’s giving the Law of Moses to the Israelites 50 days after they escaped from slavery in Egypt.

Just days after the risen Jesus ascended to heaven, Jesus' (Jewish) disciples gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate the Old Testament Feast of the First Fruits. At this occasion God transformed them by giving the Holy Spirit, as He’d promised. The disciples saw something like flames among and on them, heard a rushing wind and began speaking in many languages. The foreign pilgrims in Jerusalem heard about Jesus in their native tongues.

Today churches celebrate the Day of Pentecost as the birthday of the Church. On this day in Jerusalem God baptized the waiting disciples with the Holy Spirit. Peter testified in Acts 15:9 that their hearts were purified by faith. On this occasion Peter preached his first sermon with a boldness that Christ was the Messiah. Three thousands souls were saved that day and brought into the church.

NEWS --

Church camp this summer for our children is July 5 - 8. It cost $135. If you would like to help send a camper, mark you donation 'children's camp'.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone

Congratulations, Chris Holt, on your graduation from high school. It was a long journey but you made it.

Chris's graduation ceremony is today at New Castle High School beginning at 2:00 p.m.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

Great Grammar

Teaching junior high school English, Melissa emphasized to the class about the importance of having nice clean margins on their papers.

One seventh-grade boy said in his essay that he was sorry to write in the margarine.

When she graded his paper, Melissa added a little note next to his that said, "Maybe next time you will do butter."

Palm Sunday, April 17th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:58:00 +0000

We now enter the 6^th week of the Lenten Season. This last week of Jesus' life is also called Holy Week.

Jesus began this week riding a young donkey into the gates of Jerusalem. Most everyone greeted Him with loud shouts of "Hosanna, Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord." The religious regulators were upset with such an uproar from the crowd of people who knew Jesus and His healing among the poor, ill, and crippled. It was only appropriate to celebrate His coming.

Things went from bad to worse as the week progressed. With Jesus' popularity the Jewish rulers planned to do away with this rising star. Little did they know that their hate-filled plan only advanced the kingdom of God's mercy and grace to the entire world.

Today the followers of Christ all over the world celebrate Jesus' victory. But the week before His resurrection Jesus' life and the lives of His followers entered a terrible tribulation. This week let's make time to remember the horrific sufferings of Christ for our sins.

Easter or Resurrection Day celebrates the victory God gave His Son Jesus over death, hell, and the grave. Our Sunday morning celebration service at 10:30 includes special music from our children and adults. Let's pack out our church sanctuary with 150 in attendance.

Our SonRise Service begins at 8:00 a.m. followed by a pitch-in fellowship breakfast at the OutPost beginning at 9:00. Sunday School will not meet that day.

Heaven's Gates and Hell's Flames will be presented by Richmond New Creations this evening beginning 7:00 p.m. Church van will leave 6:00 p.m.

Thursday Tenebrae Service 7:30 p.m. commemorates the extinguishing life of Christ in His last days before the crucifixion.

Children's Easter Egg Hunt is this Saturday at 2:00 p.m. We need tons of candy. Both Day Care and Church children enjoy this fun time. Please bring your candy anytime this week.

The world’s largest piñata was built in Philly and stuffed with 8,000 lbs. of candy. A wrecking ball was used to crack it open- we will not do this.

Easter Sunday is the most celebrated day of the year for Christians. After Christ arose from the dead, He told His disciples to go to the ends of the earth with the Good News message to forgive sins, remove guilt, and restore a relationship with God as our heavenly Father.

Our church has always believed in this mission. Our goal is to receive $1,000 to support our church in world-wide evangelism. Plan to give as God as given to you with an offering for compassion and self-denial.

Good Friday Community Service is hosted by New Testament Church of the Christ beginning 7:00 p.m.

Film: The Passion of Christ by Mel Gibson will be shown next Saturday at the church, 7:00 p.m.

Easter Lilies have been a wonderful way to remember our cherished loved ones. You may bring an Easter lily plant to display in the church sanctuary along with a card listing names which will be read in memorial next Sunday.

Relay for Life is an American Cancer Project to help fund the fight against cancer. Lori Sturgeon has signed-up our church as a team to participate in a 24-hour relay on May 21-22 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. See Lori Sturgeon for more info.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Floyd Sanders at 489-4898.

Church Calendar:
Sun. Apr. 17: Lenten Season- Palm Sunday
"Heaven's Gates and Hell's Flames" 7:00 p.m.
Thu. Apr. 21: Tenebrae Service, 7:30 p.m.
Fri. Apr. 22: Good Friday Service, Hagerstown New Testament Church of Christ, 7:00 p.m.
Sat. Apr. 23: Children's Easter Egg Hunt, 2:00 p.m.
The Passion Movie, 7:00 p.m.
Sun. Apr. 24: SonRise Service, 8:00 a.m.
Fellowship Breakfast at OutPost 9:00 a.m.
Resurrection Celebration Service, 10:30 a.m

Sunday, March 20th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 17:27:00 +0000

“We’re glad you’ve come to worship Jesus as we anticipate a time of reviving in the Lenten season, the time of reflection before Easter."

Ash Wednesday begins the 40 days of the Lenten Season that precedes the last week of Jesus' life on earth.

Denying oneself for 40 days is one way to help us appreciate Christ's life of self-denial. This exercise is not just a ritual but one of taking time to refocus on the life of Christ as the suffering servant giving Himself for us.

Last week's sermon focused on Jesus' temptation to take the short cut. Turning stones into bread would have temporarily satisfied Jesus' hunger. But bodily cravings are never reason enough to side-step God's way. Jumping off the temple peak would have been a great showing, but Jesus' ministry was not about the razzle-dazzle and hype that attract many people. The devil promised Jesus the world if He would but bow down and worship him. But the devil is not God, but only a fallen and cursed angel. Only God is worthy of our worship, love, and allegiance. There are no shortcuts serving God. Only God's way.

Jesus chose to empty Himself of all His glory by denying Himself and depending totally upon God the Father's supreme love and power. Jesus' way of life was not poplar then and is not poplar today because it requires genuine passion and purity of heart to serve the God of everlasting mercy and grace.

What can we deny this week to take time to attend the revival service in order for God to wash away our uncleanness and burn away our sin?

District Children Bible Quiz-off was yesterday. We had seven children to participate: Austin Lutz, Jacob Tackett, Jordan and Jadelyn Sturgeon, Amanda Turull, Kristen Lotz, and Ashley and Nick Grimes. They won ribbons and trophies. Jordan and Jadelyn will go on to the next level of district quiz on April 9.

Mark Lowry will be at Indianapolis First Church, Saturday, March 26, 6:00 p.m. Go online to order your $20 or $25 ticket. http://indynaz.org/609909.ihtml

Spring is coming. Softball is anticipated. Indicate your interested by signing the softball sheet on the foyer bulletin board of which team you want to play on. We need to know which league we're able to field a team.

Our Gideon Speaker, Bob Wonsetler, received $266 from our love offering last Sunday.

Thank you for supporting a ministry that distributes God's Word in over 190 countries across the globe.

Alabaster Offering is still coming in. To date $362.35 has been received for the purchase of property and facilities for missionary work.

Our Melvin Messer went home to be with his Lord last Wednesday. He had a cardiac arrest in the hospital recovering from a fall that broke six ribs last Sunday. Calling is from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Waskom's Funeral Home in Cambridge City. Funeral Service is Monday 11:00 a.m. at Waskom's. Pray for Susie and her family during this difficult time.

52^nd Rural Urban Banquet is set for April 9^th at the high school cafeteria beginning 5:30 p.m. Joshua's Vision Quartet is the entertainment along with a meal, door prizes, and the Good Neighbor and Friend Award. See Pastor for your $5 ticket.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Floyd Sanders at 489-4898.

Secret Sisters are now signing up. See Lanelle.

How many herbs and spices make up the secret blend used in Colonel Harland Sanders' Original Kentucky Fried Chicken Recipe?

Answer : Colonel Harland Sanders first introduced the world to the taste of his Original Recipe Kentucky Fried Chicken in 1939. Featuring a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, news of the Colonel's tasty chicken spread quickly, and by 1964 he had opened more than 600 Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurants. The Colonel's secret recipe is locked away in a safe in Louisville, Kentucky, and only a handful of people have ever been allowed to view the recipe.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Mar. 20: Revival with Dr. Nelson Perdue Begins
Sat. Mar. 26: Mark Lowry at Indianapolis First Church
Mon. Mar. 28: Nettle Creek School Spring Break Begins
Sat. Apr. 9: 52^nd Rural-Urban Banquet, 5:30 p.m.

1 John 1:9“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, February 6th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Super Bowl 45 has finally arrived. For the Steelers and Packer fans it is a special event that a couple of months ago they thought never could happen.

Who are you rooting for? Thanks to Phil and Karen for hosting a place for those who wish to gather for some football family fellowship. Also, bring something to eat.

Advertising during the game is most amazing. One would not think we are in a recession when a 30 second advertisement will cost $3 million. This doesn't even include the cost in producing the clip. Fox network used discretion in its ads.

Fox chose not to run an ad depicting a porn star getting excited about her husband cheating on her. Fox was accused of being biased. Well, there is nothing wrong with judging or discernment that Jesus called "… righteous judgment" (John 7:24).

We need righteous judgment to discern in doing the what is right. Our not-so-super economy stemmed from the moral failure of greed and trying to outlive our means. The re-birth of our nation will begin with a spiritual re-birth. As church people let's not take for granted those spiritual avenues upon which our nation was founded and our souls need. Above the culture roaring, let's root for God's values.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

The husband bought his wife a piano for Valentine's. A few weeks later, the daughter asked the dad how her mother was doing with the new piano.

"Oh," said the dad, "I persuaded her to switch to a clarinet."

"How come?" the daughter inquired.

"Well," he answered, "because with a clarinet, she can't sing."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

After a recent college basketball game, the coach spotted a cell phone lying on the floor. He picked it up and handed it to one of the referees, saying, "Here's your phone."

"What makes you think it's mine?" the ref asked.

"Easy," the coach replied. "It says you missed 13 calls."

News and Events:

Sunday School is made up of disciplers of Christ. They study faithfully the Word of God; they understand God’s will for their lives; and they apply what they learn.

Don't you wish that just going to church is all that it takes to get to heaven. Or just believing in Jesus is all that is required. God has something greater than just church attendance and easy believe-ism.

God wants us to become a true disciple of Jesus. Jesus told His disciples, “… go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

The purpose of Jesus' coming was to bring God's lost creation into a rich relationship with Himself and with family, friends, and neighbors. Now that is living!

Financial Peace University classes continue this Monday, 7:00 p.m. -weather permitting. We had a great first session. It's still not too late to start.

See Monty for more information. These series of classes are well worth the financial peace that we desperately need in this troubled times.

Mark Lowry will be at Indianapolis First Church, Saturday, March 26, 6:00 p.m. Go online to order your $25 or $20 ticket. http://indynaz.org/609909.ihtml

Alabaster Offering is that special gift that our church will receive Sunday, Feb. 23, for the missionary ministry of purchasing and building facilities.

Thanks to Richard Meyer, John Sutton, and Daniel Gabbard for cleaning the ice from the parking lot. In some places the ice was almost 2" thick.

The 50^th Wedding Anniversary of our district superintendent, Dr. Ted and Beverly Lee, is Friday, February 18. The district asks each church to send cards for this special occasion. Please sign the church's card. There is an open house Saturday, February 19, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Camby Campgrounds.

FYI Rubber bands were first made by Perry and Company of London in 1845.

The shoestring was invented in England in 1790. Prior to this time, all shoes were fastened with buckles.

If you are right-handed, you will tend to chew your food on the right side of the mouth. If you are left-handed, you will tend to chew your food on the left.

Good news for those who follow folklore traditions. Any Hoosier groundhogs looking for their shadow today would need a pick axe in order to break the ice to get out of their holes. Therefore, Spring should be right around the corner.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Floyd Sanders at 489-4898.

Church Calendar:
Mon. Feb. 14: Valentine's Day
Sun. Feb. 20: Alabaster Sunday

Sunday, January 9th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:43:00 +0000

“Welcome in the name of Christ. Your presence increases our joy as we praise our loving Savior.

May every blessing be yours. "

What God can do with nothing?

Martin Luther said, “Since it is God’s nature to make something out of nothing, we must become nothing before God can make something out of us.”

Adelaide A. Pollard, a 20th-century poet, made the same point in the hymn

“Have Thine Own Way”:

Have Thine own way, Lord!

Have Thine own way!
Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.” Only those who realize their spiritual poverty are eligible candidates for God’s kingdom.

News

Children Bible Quiz Study is 6:00 p.m. each Sunday. Next quiz invitational is Saturday, January 15.

Worship and Wonder Service is focusing on living out the "Lord's Prayer" 6:00 p.m. today.

All pray-ers gather 6:30 p.m. each Monday at the church and pray for your needs. List your requests on the yellow Welcome to Worship card and place in the offering plate or give to Marj, or Pastors Bob or Dave.

Mandy's Mission Study for children meets each Wednesday, 6:00 p.m.

Small group discipleship this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. is studying Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.

2011 Church Directories are available.

Sunday School is made up of disciplers of Christ. They study faithfully the Word of God; they understand God’s will for their lives; and they apply what they learn.

A great goal for 2011 is to become a disciple of Christ. Just believing in Jesus is not enough to make it to heaven. Jesus told His disciples, “… go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Jesus may return this year of 2011. Let’s be prepared. Also a fair question to ask: "What are we doing now will make a difference one hundred years from now?"

Financial Peace University will help get your finances on firm footing according to biblical principles.

Next Sunday morning and Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. there will be a preview of the course offered. Classes will begin two weeks later. See Monty for info.

Hagerstown Faith Housing is for senior rental assisted living. If you know of anyone interested, phone Floyd Sanders at 489-4898.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Jan. 9: Financial Peace University Preview

Mon. Jan. 10: Financial Peace University Preview 7:00pm

Sat. Jan. 15: Children's Invitational Quiz #3, 10:00 a.m.

Mon. Jan. 17: Martin Luther King Birthday Observance,

Sat. Jan. 22: Family Movie Night 7:00 pm.

Sun. Jan. 23: Baby Dedication of Kenly Ferriell

Wed. Jan. 26: Zone Indoor Campmeeting begins at Richmond First with Nazarene Evangelist Gary Bond

Sunday, November 28th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 19:56:00 +0000

“On this first Sunday of Advent, Lord, our hearts turn to your most precious gift, Jesus Christ. Help us eagerly anticipate his coming."

Advent, which means “the coming,” is the season of the church year when Christians prepare to celebrate Jesus’ birth.

In anticipation of Christmas, many decorate their homes and their churches.

One symbol used is the Advent Wreath (pictured above). The five candles on the circle of evergreen symbolize that Jesus is the Light of the World — He brings light and life to a dark world. On each of the four Sundays of Advent, a new candle is lit. As the light grows brighter, so do our hope and joy.

Each of the five candles stands for different aspects of the coming of Christ. Each Sunday a different family will light a candle to help us focus on a specific meaning of Christ.

Preparing for Christmas at church and home is a joyful tradition that draws family members closer to God and each other.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

Steve ran into John while shopping at the mall the other day in front of one of the jewelry stores. Noticing a conspicuously small gift wrapped box in his hand, Steve asked if it was a gift for his wife Martha.

John told Steve, "With Christmas coming up, I asked Martha what she wanted and she said, "Oh, I don't know just give me something with lots of diamonds in it.

"So what did you get her?" Steve asked.

John smiled with his reply, "I bought her a deck of poker cards."

News and Events.

Children Bible Quiz Study is today at 5:30 p.m. with Mandy and Vicky.

Mandy's Mission Study with the children meets each Wednesday, 6:00 p.m.

All pray-ers gather this Monday 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary and pray for your requests.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team practice at 7:00 p.m.

Men's Prayer Breakfast is next Saturday December 4th beginning at 8:00 a.m. We meet to pray in the church then fellowship around eggs, bacon, biscuits and gravy.

Hagerstown Christmas Shop on Perry Street is now open for the season. See Carol Bullock for more info. She has some great buys.

WEF+ stands for World Evangelism Fund Plus. From its founding the Church of the Nazarene to the present has always taken serious the words of Jesus to go into all the nations to make Christ-like disciples. We support our missionaries with our prayers and finances.

Due to the present economic times funds for missions have been more of a challenge.

Our goal is for everyone to give $10 per person for a Thanksgiving Offering. So far we rejoice to have received $580 towards our goal of $700. This money will go directly to missions to help make-up an anticipated $6 million shortfall. Let's experience God's Word: "Live generously and graciously toward others the way God lives toward you" (Matthew 5:48).

The repair of our church waterline was $4,171. Thank you for giving so far $2,503 toward the cost of the project. Mark your gift "waterline."

Christmas Day will soon be here. Our church with other organizations is helping so that every family may have a joyous Christmas. Please check the list for items you wish to buy for the families our church is responsible.

Operation Christmas Child needs help in preparing the millions of shoe box gifts. Dr. Greg Hellwarth is taking a team on Dec. 7, to Charlotte, NC, and returning on Dec. 10. See Pastor for more info.

Hagerstown Faith Housing has one and two bedroom apartments with limited rental assistance for those who qualify. Appliances, weekly trash service, and central air provided. Phone Floyd Sanders, 489-4898.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Nov. 28: First Sunday of Advent
Mon. Nov. 29: Financial Peace University, 7:00 p.m.
Fri. Dec. 3: Hagerstown Hometown Christmas Begins
Sat. Dec. 4: Men's Prayer Breakfast, 8:00 a.m.
Ladies Day to Edinburg Shopping Mall
Sun. Dec. 5: Church Board, 'eat & meet'
Fri. Dec. 17: Amazing Angels Christmas Program
Sun. Dec. 19: Children's Christmas Program
Tue. Dec. 21: Community Service of Hope and Remembrance, 7:00 p.m.
Thu. Dec. 23: Christmas Caroling
Fri. Dec. 24: Family Christmas Communions
Sat. Dec. 25: Christmas Day
Wed. Dec. 29: NYI District Teen Holiday Event
Fri. Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Service
Sat. Jan. 1: New Year's Day

Sunday, November 21st, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:48:00 +0000

“Welcome to Thanksgiving worship. Together, let us express our sincere gratitude to God, the giver of every good and perfect gift."

An Episcopal minister, Robert Shahan, was recovering in a hospital after heart surgery. He rang for the nurse and asked her to please bring him some ice.

“I have a choice for you,” the nurse said. “You can either have a new BMW or some ice chips. Quickly, he said, “Ice!”

The nurse replied, “Don’t ever forget that.”

Shahan says that was a good reminder of the importance of life’s little things. Now he tries to always be thankful — even for such common things as ice or a glass of water.

THANKSGIVING

“There are three kinds of giving:
grudge giving, duty giving and thanksgiving.
Grudge giving says, ‘I have to’;
duty giving says, ‘I ought to’;
and thanksgiving says, ‘I want to.’
The latter comes from a full heart.
Thanksgiving is an open gate
into the love of God.”
—Robert N. Rodenmayer

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

A turkey farmer was always experimenting with breeding to perfect a better turkey. His family was fond of the leg portion for dinner and there were never enough legs for everyone. After many frustrating attempts, the farmer was relating the results of his efforts to his friends at the general store get together. "Well I finally did it! I bred a turkey that has 6 legs!"

They all asked the farmer how it tasted.

"I don't know" said the farmer. "I've never been able to catch the thing!"

Why did the turkey cross the road?

…It was the chicken's day off.

What kind of music did the Pilgrims like?

…Plymouth Rock

NEWS:

Children's mission study will not meet this Wednesday but will continue next week.

All pray-ers gather each Monday 6:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary and pray for your requests.

Wednesday evening activities are canceled for families to prepare for the Thanksgiving festivities.

The repair of our church waterline was $4,171. Thank you for giving so far $2,486 toward the cost of the project. Mark your gift "waterline."

Community Thanksgiving Service is hosted by Sugar Grove Community Church this evening 6:00. Church van leaves a little after 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Shop is now open for the season. See Carol Bullock for more info. She has some great buys.

WEF+ stands for World Evangelism Fund Plus. From its founding the Church of the Nazarene to the present has taken serious the words of Jesus to go into all the nations to make Christ-like disciples. We support our missionaries.

Due to the present economic times funds for missions have been more of a challenge.

Our goal is for everyone to give $10 per person for a Thanksgiving Offering for November 21. This money goes directly to missions to help make-up an anticipated $6 million shortfall. Let's experience God's Word: "Live generously and graciously toward others the way God lives toward you" (Matthew 5:48).

Thank you, Marj, for movie night with The Perfect Stranger. Spiritual truths were greatly emphasized and inspired in a modern day setting.

Financial Peace University helps get your finances or firm footing according to biblical principles. Monty will give more info.

Church membership is open for those who have accepted Christ as their Savior and decided to follow Jesus as their Lord. Pastor Fannin appreciates talking to those who desire membership in the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene.

Church Calendar:
Sun. Nov. 21: Thanksgiving Offering
Community Thanksgiving Service, 6 p.m.
Thu. Nov. 25: Thanksgiving Day
Sun. Nov. 28: First Sunday of Advent
Mon. Nov. 29: Financial Peace University, 7:00 p.m.
Fri. Dec. 3: Hagerstown Hometown Christmas Begins
Sat. Dec. 4: Men's Prayer Breakfast, 8:00 a.m.
Ladies Day to Edinburg Shopping Mall
Sun. Dec. 5: Church Board, 'eat & meet'
Fri. Dec. 17: Amazing Angels Christmas Program
Sun. Dec. 19: Children's Christmas Program
Tue. Dec. 21: Community Service of Hope and Remembrance, 7:00 p.m.
Thu. Dec. 23: Christmas Caroling
Fri. Dec. 24: Family Christmas Communions
Sat. Dec. 25: Christmas Day
Wed. Dec. 29: NYI District Teen Holiday Event
Fri. Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Service
Sat. Jan. 1: New Year's Day

Sunday, October 10th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 20:39:00 +0000

“God is worthy of our worship and praise. We welcome Him and His love with all those whom He has created and redeemed in Christ."

Tomorrow is observed as Columbus Day. He set sail from Europe on August 3, 1492. He writes, "It was the Lord who put into my mind (I could feel His hand upon me) the fact that it would be possible to sail from here to the Indies… There is no question that the inspiration was from the Holy Spirit, because he comforted me with rays of marvelous illumination from the Holy Scriptures…"

After the longest voyage ever made out of sight of land, Columbus discovered the new world on October 12, 1492. He understood this voyage was in fulfillment of God's purpose prophesied in Isaiah. Columbus writes, "Isaiah goes into great detail in describing future events and in calling all people to our holy catholic faith… For the execution of the journey to the Indies I did not make use of intelligence, mathematics or maps. It is simply the fulfillment of what Isaiah had prophesied." Columbus was an evangelist.

Columbus writes about his experience with God: "I am a most unworthy sinner, but I have cried out to the Lord for grace and mercy, and they have covered me completely. I have found the sweetest consolations since I made it my who purpose to enjoy his marvelous presence."

Columbus experienced heart holiness with the single purpose of enjoying God's presence and purpose.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

After the death of a never married 94-year old spinster of his church, the pastor was given a note from her personal belongings. In the woman's handwriting were specific instructions for her funeral service. Along with the suggestions for Scripture readings and music were the following orders:

"There will be no male pallbearers. Since they wouldn't take me out when I was alive, I don't want them to take me out when I'm dead."

Thank you, Monty, Pastor Dave, Rex, David, and Phil, for painting the doors, coating the blacktop, recovering the ditch, and pressure washing the buildings at yesterday's work day. Looks great!

All pray-ers will gather this Monday 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary and pray for your requests.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m.

Children's mission study is each Wednesday evening at 6:30 with Mandy Davis.

Improve Your Service is the district event for all Sunday School, Missionary, and Youth workers at New Castle First Church Thursday, October 21, 7:00 p.m.

The repair of our church waterline was $4,171. So far you have generously given $2,009 toward the cost of the project. Mark your gift "waterline."

Church is in need of a caretaker to clean the church sanctuary and Outpost on a weekly basis. Please see pastor if you're interested.

Trunk O' Treat provides an alternate way for our trick-or-treaters to have a fun evening on Halloween night, Oct. 30. We need volunteers to bring their car trunk full of treats to the parking lot so the kids can go from trunk to trunk. If you wish to provide a trunk, place your name on the list in the foyer. You can also wear a mask or just use your own face. The time will be from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Along with Paco there will be live animals present complements of Kevin Roger's mother.

Joshua's Vision Contemporary Gospel Trio are planning to be with us in the Sunday morning worship, Oct. 24. They are great gospel singers. They have fun in what they do. You will enjoy their ministry.

Laymen's retreat is set for October 29-31. This is a great weekend retreat for our lay people on the district. No ministers are allowed. Our church has had a terrific group to go, and they have a lot of fun along with the spiritual impact upon their lives.

See Monty for registration. Deadline is October 19.

Collingsworth Family will be the featured guest singers at the district PrimeTime event at Indy First Church, Thursday, November 4, beginning 6:30 p.m. The cost is $17. We have already ordered the first 10 tickets. This includes an evening meal and the featured singing. You may place your $17 in the offering plate and mark it "PrimeTime." Let's have a good turnout.

Recycle your computer printer cartridges Bring your used printer cartridges to the church and place them in the white box in the foyer. These are cashed in for church and daycare office supplies.

Church Calendar:

Thu. Oct. 21: District Event at New Castle First
Sun. Oct. 24: Joshua's Vision, 10:40 a.m.
Fri. - Sun. Oct. 29-31: Laymen's Retreat
Sat. Oct. 30: 'Trunk O' Treat' 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Thu. Nov. 4: Collingsworth Family, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 16:43:00 +0000

“With a heart full of joy we worship and enjoy our family of fellowship together. Everyone is welcome to experience God’s family love."

"Home Sweet Home" resonates with those who have been absent from their families for a period of time, especially, those who have served in our military. The famous radio commentator Paul Harvey always said that this is not one world. He probably meant that there are values and actions expressed or experienced in other parts of the world that are completely foreign to our way of living and understanding.

This is also true for all who have lived sin's life. In the slavery and control of sin people do things that are completely foreign to the human condition. Words are said and deeds are done to the embarrassment of what is decent and respectful. This so alienates us from one another that life fills itself with feelings of rejection and isolation.

Christ came to change our alienation. Even while we were dead in our sins Christ died for us. His death and resurrection gives us the hope of a new life and new family. No longer do we have to be the slaves of a sinful nature that separates us from God and one another.

Hear the words of Jesus, "Come to Me all of you who are tired and weary. Learn of Me. I am meek and lowly. I will give you rest and peace and will invite you to belong to a home where you are welcome and where you belong."

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

Sometimes the newspaper editor has a tough time picking titles for an article, for example:

Patient at Death's Door -- Doctors Pull Him Through

Diaper Market Bottoms Out

Stadium Air Conditioning Fails -- Fans Protest

Teacher Strikes Idle Kids

Autos Killing 110 a Day -- Let's Resolve to Do Better

20 Year Friendship Ends at Altar

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures

If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It may Last Awhile

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges

Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead

Hoodlebrink/Houghton Fundraiser last Friday raised $1,300 for each family. Thank you Nikki, Nancy, and Dave for preparing three roasters of spaghetti.

Children's Bible Quizzing continues today at 5:30 p.m. This is an excellent program to help children learn and understand the Scriptures. Last Sunday they had eight children and three workers.

NYI Teens will gather this evening, 7:00, with Allan and Derek. Our teens enjoy this time of fun, food, and fellowship in Jesus' name.

Pray-ers will gather this Monday 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary and pray for your requests.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m.

Website http://HagerstownNazarene.org

Children's mission study is given by Mandy Davis each Wednesday beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Outside Church Workday is set for next Saturday. Monty would like many to help with several jobs around the church and parsonage.

Seth, Jasmine, and Kathie are moving to Texas very soon. Seth has been promoted to a corporate level job within his company. We wish him and his family the best. They will be very much missed.

The repair of our church waterline was $4,171. So for you have generously given $1,682 toward the cost of the project. Mark your gift "waterline."

Our alabaster gift received was $313,57. Thank you for helping support our missions work to buy land, building material for churches, parsonages, health clinics, and equipment with this offering.

Church is in need of a caretaker to clean the church sanctuary and Outpost on a weekly basis. Please see pastor.

See Monty for registration. Deadline is October 19.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Oct. 3: NYI Youth Gathering with Allan

Sat. Oct. 9: Outside Church Workday

Thu. Oct. 21: District Event at New Castle First

'Improving Your Serve'

Fri. - Sun. Oct. 29-31: Laymen's Retreat

Sun. Oct. 31: 'Trunk O Treat'

Thu. Nov. 4: Collingsworth Family, 6:30 p.m.

Proverbs 27:1“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, September 26th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Englishman Robert Raikes, born in 1735, was a Christian who saw unschooled children working six days a week in factories and mines. On Sundays, children roamed the streets, often getting into trouble. Most didn’t know how to read or write and knew nothing about Christ or the church.

As Raikes labored to reform England’s prison system, he noticed that many children were imprisoned. He arranged for halls and homes to be used for educational purposes on Sundays, the one day children didn’t have to work. He found volunteers to teach reading, writing and math, as well as the Bible and Christian beliefs.

The first Sunday school class was held in July, 1780. Amazingly, by 1788 some 250,000 children were attending such schools. This occurred despite some people’s opposition to the education of lower-class children.

Countless boys and girls have attended Sunday school classes since then, thanks to Raikes, who brought Christ’s light and love to children around the world.

Children's Bible Quizzing is over the book of Samuel today at 5:30 p.m. This is an excellent program to help children learn and understand the Scriptures.

Pray-ers will gather this Monday 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary and pray for a multitude of requests.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m.

Children's mission study is given by Mandy Davis each Wednesday beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Next Sunday our church board will 'eat & meet' following the morning service.

The repair of our church waterline was $4,171. Last Sunday you gave $1,252 toward the cost of the project. Let's reach this goal. Mark your gift "waterline."

Our alabaster gift so far received is $265.27. This monetary gift purchases land, building material for churches, parsonages, health clinics, and equipment for our missionaries. We'll receive your alabaster gift to the end of the month.

Seth, Jasmine, and Kathie are moving to Texas very soon. Seth has been promoted to a corporate level job within his company. We wish him and his family the best. They will be very much missed.

Seth has developed our sight and sound system for several years. There is a lot to it. We need others to step in and continue this ministry. He will lead a training session for those who are interested following this morning's worship service.

Hoodlebrink/Houghton Fundraiser is set for next Friday at the elementary cafeteria. This community event is supported by area churches and businesses to help these families in their medical bills. Our church is providing two roasters of spaghetti. Let Pastor know if you can prepare a roaster. The church will purchase the ingredients.

Laymen's retreat is set for October 29-31. This is a weekend retreat for our lay people on the district. No ministers are permitted. Our church has had a great group to go, and they have a lot of fun along with the spiritual impact upon their lives.

Deadline for registration is October 19. This has been a neat time for couples

Collingsworth Family will be the featured guest singers at the district PrimeTime event at Indy First Church, Thursday, November 4, beginning 6:30 p.m. The cost is $17. We have already ordered 10 tickets. This includes an evening meal and the featured singing. You may place your $17 in the offering plate and mark it "PrimeTime."

Church Calendar:

Sat. Oct. 2: Men's Prayer Breakfast
Fri. - Sun. Oct. 29-31: Laymen's Retreat
Thu. Nov. 4: Collingsworth Family, 6:30 p.m.

September Finances
MONTHLY GIVING	Received Last Sunday the 19^th	Received So Far For The Month	Budget For The Month
Tithes and Offerings	2,552.28	5,679.89	6,000.00
Building Fund Loan	95.00	479.00	696.89
Missions Alabaster	50.50 260.27	174.03 265.27	500.00 500.00

Matthew 6:33“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

September 19, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:28:00 +0000

"[God] works on us in all sorts of ways. But above all, He works on us through each other.

[People] are mirrors, or 'carriers' of Christ to other [people]. Usually it is those who know Him that bring Him to others. That is why the Church, the whole body of Christians showing Him to one another, is so important. It is so easy to think that the Church has a lot of different objects — education, building, missions, holding services. ... The Church exists for no other purpose but to draw [people] into Christ, to make them little Christs. If they are not doing that, all the cathedrals, clergy, missions, sermons, even the Bible itself, are simply a waste of time."

"The Son of God became the Son of man for no other purpose than the sons of men may become the sons of God. It is even doubtful… whether the whole universe was created for any other reason." — adapted from C.S. Lewis

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

An efficiency expert concluded his lecture with a note of caution. "You don't want to try these techniques at home." "Why not?" asked somebody from the audience."I watched my wife's routine at breakfast for years," the expert explained. "She made lots of trips between the refrigerator, stove, table and cabinets, often carrying a single item at a time. One day I told her, 'Hon, why don't you try carrying several things at once?'" "Did it save time?" the guy in the audience asked. "Actually, yes," replied the expert. "It used to take her 20 minutes to make breakfast. Now I do it in seven."

Thank you, Monty, for supervising the project to replace the main water line to the church.

Thank you, Chris, for taking the ladies to the district Ladies Day in Indianapolis.

Prayer Gathering meets every Mondays 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Come and pray.

Children's Bible Quizzing over the book of Samuel is today at 5:30 p.m. with Mandy Davis and Shawn and Vicky Tackett directing.

This is an excellent program for children to learn the Scriptures.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m. Anyone interested can join in the practice.

Children's mission study is given by Mandy Davis each Wednesday beginning at 6:30 p.m.

See-You-At-The Pole is set for this Wednesday, September 22, beginning 7:00 a.m. at the elementary and the high school.

Alabaster Giving is today. This monetary gift purchases land, building material for churches, parsonages, health clinics, and equipment for our missionaries. We'll also receive donations to the end of the month.

Religion Is Good for Humanity
According to a new Family Research Council study, religious practice in the home has a significant, positive effect on a child's level of academic achievement. The study showed that the grade-point average of students involved in religious activities is 14 percent higher than those not involved. It also shows that religious students spend more time on their homework.

Church Calendar:

Wed. Sep 22: See-You-At-The-Pole
Fri. - Sun. Oct. 19-21: Laymen's Retreat
Thu. Nov. 4: Collingsworth Family, 6:30 p.m.

Joel 2:23“Be glad, O people of Zion, rejoice in the LORD your God, for he has given you the autumn rains in righteousness. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, September 12th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 18:25:00 +0000

“With rejoicing we welcome you to worship.

It pleases our heavenly Father for His children to be gathered in His house on the Lord's Day."

The story is told of a teen boy tending a flock of sheep near his home in Jerusalem. One large sheep made a break for it climbing up the slope away from the rest of the flock. The lad left his flock and began chasing the bull-headed sheep. He yelled, threw rocks, swung his staff, until he caught up and grabbed the sheep. He whacked the sheep with his hand a couple of times and dragged the whining sheep back down the hill. As he neared the flock the errant sheep gave up on its resistance and joined the fold.

Many times a pastor has had the similar job of searching those who have 'made a break.' Sometimes he's successful, sometimes not.

This reminds us of the Good Shepherd who comes seeking after us when we try to 'make our break.' If understood correctly the Good Shepherd allows scolding and chastisement to come our way trying to beckon us back to the fold. He relentlessly pursues until we realize the error of our ways and return to the flock with a restored relationship with the Good Shepherd. Jesus said that there is a big party in heaven over one returning than over 99 righteous.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

A police officer answered a call from the local Catholic Convent about a strange object circling overhead.

When the officer arrived, he asked the Mother Superior what kind of object it was. "I really can't say," she replied, "But Sister Elizabeth says she knows exactly what it was. Do you want to speak with her?"

"That's ok, I'm in a hurry," said the officer, "I'll just put it down as a nun-identified flying object."

Thanks to all who made a great time of fellowship last Labor Day Weekend church fellowship. The children loved the slippy slide as the adults loved the grilled hamburgers and hotdogs. Thanks, Don, for setting up the game activities.

Thanks to Allan, Carol and all who helped Derek with Wednesday's fundraiser at Farmer's Market. His goal is to raise $999 for his NYC (Nazarene Youth Congress) trip to Louisville, KY, next July.

Thank you, Monty, for a great Saturday with our teens. They weren't able to do the tubing due to the weather. But they bowled, ate pizza, and watch an inspirational movie.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m. Anyone interested can join in the practice.

Children's Bible Quizzing over the book of Samuel begins today at 5:30 p.m. with Mandy Davis and Shawn and Vicky Tackett directing.

This is one of the best programs the church has for children to learn the Scriptures.

Prayer Gathering will meet this Monday 8:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary to mainly pray.

Alabaster Giving is next Sunday, September 19. This monetary gift purchases land, building material for churches, parsonages, health clinics, and equipment for our missionaries.

Marj Shepherd and work & witness team will present their ministry event in Haiti. There are lots of pictures showing their work with the Haitians.

Children's mission study will be offered by Mandy Davis each Wednesday beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Ladies District Event is set for next Saturday. The ladies will travel to Gracepointe Church of the Nazarene. They will depart 7:00 a.m.

The following school supplies are needed for Shepherd Community Children: colored pencils, construction paper, crayons, folders, makers, pencils, pens, regular lined paper, and glue sticks.

Total NYI Youth Rally is set for next Saturday, September 18, with Allan beginning at 7:00 p.m. All teens are invited to participate in this youth event.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Sep 12: National Grandparents Day

Sun. Sep 12: Church Board Meeting

Sat. Sep 18: District Women's Ministries Event

Sat. Sep 18: Total NYI Youth Rally with Allan

Sun. Sep 19: Marj's Haiti Trip Presentation

Alabaster Offering for Missions

Wed. Sep 22: See-You-At-The-Pole

Sun. Sep. 29: NYI Youth Gathering with Allan

Fri. - Sun. Oct. 19-21: Laymen's Retreat

Thu. Nov. 4: Collingsworth Family, 6:30 p.m.

Have a blessed day!

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 17:24:00 +0000

Remember to share the FB page with your friends.

1 John 4:16“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”

Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

Sunday, September 5th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:55:00 +0000

On this Labor Day weekend, it’s hard not to think about how unemployment has affected many people in our communities and churches. Congregations with unemployed members have a calling to help however they can.

Some churches provide job fairs; some have regular meetings to help unemployed people cope. Some churches provide food and other necessities. Those who can should hire an unemployed brother or sister in Christ at a fair wage. The entire congregation should pray regularly for unemployed people.

Christians who’ve lost their jobs should know they still have work to do. The church always needs volunteers, and unemployed people can serve the Lord and help the church’s mission.

Charles Wesley made every Christian’s “work” clear in his hymn “A Charge to Keep I Have”:

A charge to keep I have, a God to glorify,

A never-dying soul to save and fit it for the sky,

To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill;

O may it all my powers engage to do my Master’s will!

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

A police officer answered a call from the local Catholic Convent about a strange object circling overhead.

"That's ok," said the police officer, "I'll just put it down as a nun-identified flying object."

A never-dying soul to save and fit it for the sky,

To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill;

O may it all my powers engage to do my Master’s will!

Thanks to all who helped Derek with yesterday's car wash. He's working to attend NYC (Nazarene Youth Congress) in Louisville, KY, next summer. Dominique, Cheyenne, Hayley, Chris, and Pastor helped Derek wash 12 cars and trucks. His goal is to raise $999 for his trip.

Please see the sign-up sheet to bring baked goods to sell at the Elementary Farmers Market this Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m. Anyone interested can join in the practice.

Children's Bible Quiz is one of the best programs the church has for children to learn the Scriptures. This year they will study the book of Samuel from the Old Testament. They will start next Sunday.

Prayer Gathering will not meet this Monday because of Labor Day holiday. We'll meet next week.

Thank You for your faithful giving to the ministry of the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene. We were able to come out ahead for the month of August.

National Grandparents Day is next Sunday. All grandparents are to submit pictures of their grand-children for the congregation to guess. This will be fun.

Church Board will 'eat and meet' next Sunday following the morning worship service.

Teen tubing is planned for next Saturday, September 11. We will leave the church at 11:00 a.m. and travel to Connersville for tubing with a cookout afterwards. Then on to Richmond for bowling. We will return to the church for pizza and movies. We'll sleep at the church Saturday night, eat breakfast Sunday morning, and attend bible study and church. Bring a change of clothing suitable for church on Sunday.

This is for sixth grade through college freshmen.

The cost is $25 for the tubing and bowling. A couple of dollars is needed for snacks at the bowling alley.

Donations of hamburgers, hotdogs, buns, drink and pizza is appreciated at our departure time. We're expecting 12 to 20 to attend. -Monty Sutton

Church Calendar:

Mon. Sep 6: Labor Day

Wed. Sep 8: Farmer's Market Fundraiser

Sat. Sep 11: Teen Tubing with Monty, 11:00 a.m.

Sun. Sep 12: National Grandparents Day

Sun. Sep 12: Church Board Meeting

Sat. Sep 18: District Women's Ministries Event

Sat. Sep 18: Total NYI Youth Rally with Allan

Sun. Sep 19: Marj's Haiti Trip Presentation

Alabaster Offering for Missions

Wed. Sep 22: See-You-At-The-Pole

Sun. Sep. 29: NYI Youth Gathering with Allan

Final August Finances
MONTHLY GIVING	Received Last Sunday the 29^th	Received For The Month	Disbursed For The Month
Tithes and Offerings	1,690.50	6,559.70	5,120.59
Building Fund Loan	30.00	654.00	696.89
Missions	55.00	570.25	626.65

Sunday, August 22nd, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:20:00 +0000

“No good thing will the Lord withhold from those who walk with Him” (Psalm 84:11) . Welcome! Your presence enhances the joy of all who walk with the Lord.

A Scottish preacher, Arthur John Gossip said in a sermon title "What Happens at Calvary," “At the cross we understand what God means when he talks of loving us, begin to take it in that there is nothing that he will not do, no sacrifice he will not make, no suffering that he will shirk, if only he can help us. ‘He loved me,’ said Paul, standing upon Calvary and gazing in a stunned way at the cross, ‘I who was a persecutor, and a blasphemer, and injurious, and yet he loved me and he gave himself for me.’ And with that [Paul’s] heart broke, and the old life was gone.”

If we like Paul look at the cross, we will begin to understand the enormous price it cost God to love us. There is a price tag on our salvation. Forgiveness is not free. It cost God His best to forgive our sins. It cost God His Son to the mockery of human depravity to deliver us from the disastrous tragedy of our evil. Only God's love can do what nothing else can.

We can bring the atoms of our sin to the cross where they are smashed.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine” Proverbs 17:22

A fly was buzzing along one morning when he landed on the handle of a lawnmower. A little boy on his way to school tripped on the sidewalk, spilling his lunch. He picked himself up, put his lunch back in the bag and went on. But he missed a piece of baloney.

The fly flew over and started eating the baloney. He ate so much that he couldn't fly back. So he waddled across the lawn, up the wheel of the lawn mower, up the handle, and rested.

There was still some baloney laying there on the sidewalk. With instinct he tried to fly but was so full that he fell and went splat!!, killing him instantly.

The moral of the story: "Don't fly off the handle when you are full of baloney.

Our Assistant District Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Jewell met with the church board for Pastor Fannin's review. The board gave Pastor Fannin a vote of confidence that extends his ministry in the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene for four more years.

Small group discipleship is each Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Praise team singers practice at 7:00 p.m. Anyone interested can join in the practice.

Recycle your computer printer cartridges Bring your used cartridges to the church and place them in the white box in the foyer for the fundraiser. These are cashed in for church and daycare office supplies. Every little cartridge helps.

Men's Night Out is set for Thursday, August 26^th. They will have supper together and then explore the antique tractors and gas engines. Somehow men are attracted to these mechanical machines.

Back to School for college students is now in progress. Joshua Funkhouser has left for Purdue. Cierra Andecover is leaving for Olivet this Thursday.

Teen Gathering is planned by Allan for this evening beginning at 7:00 p.m. There will be plenty of pizza and pop. Allan will lead the group in devotions with fun activities. This is for sixth through 12^th grades.

Children's Bible Quiz is one of the best programs the church has for children to learn the Scriptures. This year they will study the book of Samuel from the Old Testament.

Seven ladies went to the Women of Faith Friday and Saturday. They had a blast and came back renewed in the Spirit of the Lord.

Prayer Gathering begins this Monday 8:30 p.m. for those who wish to spend time to pray at the church for their special needs and intercede in behalf of others. Prayer requests may be written on the yellow Welcome to Worship cards and placed in the offering plates or given to the Pastor.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Aug. 22: Teen Gathering, 7:00 p.m.

Mon. Aug. 23: Prayer Gathering 8:30 p.m.

Thu. Aug. 26: Men's Night Out at the Tri-State Gas Engine Show in Portland

Sat. Aug. 28: Richmond Softball Tourney, 8:00 a.m.

Sunday, July 25th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 02:46:00 +0000

When the church goes viral

It is bad news when you or your computer catches a virus. Your immune system kicks into overtime to fight off the germs that seek to destroy your heath. You go out and buy an anti-virus software package to destroy the malicious program that takes over your computer. But catching a virus is not all bad.

In the market place products sold are first advertized. We're inundated with commercials on TV. Signs and billboards are sprinkled along the highways. There are more advertisements in books and magazines than the magazine itself. But some products market themselves. Customers so happy with their merchandise market it themselves through word of mouth. In other words, it goes "viral."

Jesus created the Viral Church. The early church was the first viral network to expand the kingdom of God among family and friends. Each person who experienced the Kingdom of God expanded the kingdom through telling the good news to others. Let's pray that the church goes 'viral' today.

NEWS

Marjorie Shepherd is back from Haiti. She worked and witnessed for a week. She is tired but inspired by the work God did through their medical team. Keep them in your prayers as they recover from their hard work.

Small group discipleship is Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Worship team lead singers practice at 7:00 p.m.

Softball Games This Week:

Friday, July 30, Richmond Diamond 1, 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 31, Williamsburg, 11:30 p.m.

Hagerstown Faith Housing has 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with limited rental assistance for those who qualify. Appliances, weekly trash service, and central air provided. Phone Floyd Sanders, 489-4898.

District Missionary Convention begins this Friday, July 30 at Camby Camp. Those representing our church include Pastor, Melissa, Nikki, Tim, Nancy, and Margaret. The Convention continues Saturday.

District Assembly begins Sunday, August 1, at 5:00 p.m. Those representing our church include Pastor Fannin, Pastor Ames, Mellissa, Allan, Kevin, Derek, Carol, and Kathie with Diana as an alternate. The assembly continues Monday morning at 8:30 a.m.

Kudos to Carol, Leslie, Judy, and Pastor for re-arranging the Sunday School rooms furniture and cleaning the carpet. Bunches of time were spent.

Church Calendar:

Fri. July 30: NMI Convention 7:30 p.m.

Sat. July 31: NMI Convention 8:30 a.m.

Sun. Aug 1: District Assembly 5:00 p.m.

Mon. Aug 2: District Assembly 8:30 a.m.

Sat. Aug 7: Men's Prayer Breakfast

Sat. Aug 14: Ladies Day at Trader's World

July Finances

MONTHLY

GIVING

Received Last Sunday the 18^th

Received So Far For The Month

Goals For The Month

Tithes and Offerings

1,414.00

4,076.70

6,000.00

Building Fund Loan

59.00

488.00

696.89

Missions

75.00

182.50

300.00

Sunday, April 18, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 17:22:00 +0000

In his poem “A Psalm of Life,”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote:
Life is real! Life is earnest!
And the grave is not its goal;
Dust thou art, to dust returnest,
Was not spoken of the soul.

Christians believe in eternal life because:
•We trust that the God who created us won’t abandon us when our hearts stop. Will God allow us to become mere dust or fodder for worms? Surely not. We can believe in a life to come because of God’s eternal love for us.
•We trust Jesus, God’s Son, who said, “In my Father’s house there are many mansions. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” (John 14:2, NRSV). Death is only a change of residence, a move to our eternal home.
•We trust that we will be raised from the dead and live, just as Jesus died and was resurrected. We simply finish the last chapter of this life and start the new book called eternal life.
All praise be to God!

Small group discipleship is Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Worship team lead singers practice at 7:00 p.m.

The Henry County Special Olympics are looking for volunteers. The event is May 15^th with opening Ceremonies at 8:45 a.m. Contact Pastor Dave if you are interested in helping. Sign-up sheets are in the foyer.

Recycle your computer printer cartridges Bring your used cartridges to the church and place them in the white box in the foyer for the daycare fundraiser. These are cashed in for church office supplies.

Softball games will begin soon. Our church will play in two leagues: Richmond and Williamsburg. See the sign-up sheets on the foyer bulletin board. The cost is $20 per league.

We have received $973 for world missions. The world needs to hear the good news of Christ. Help us reach our goal of $2,000 for our missionary work across the globe.

Vernon and Myra Baumer lost their house to fire last Thursday night. They live east of the intersection of State Routes 1 and 38. They lost everything. If you wish to donate to this family to help them with immediate needs, mark you donation “local family.”

Teen 30 Hour Famine is April 30 and May 1. The teens will experience the feeling of the homeless. Allan Bullock will announce the details and service projects.

Unchurched consider themselves Christian A new study, released this week by The Barna Group, shows that millions of Americans do not attend church, and that a large majority of those who stay home on Sunday consider themselves to be Christian. The research revealed that:

In the past six months, 28% of the adult population has not attended any church service or activity. When children are included, this translates to more than 100 million people.
In the United States, 83% of all adults identify themselves as "Christian."
Of those who have not attended church for at least six months, 61% label themselves "Christian."
Two-thirds (68%) of the Christians who do not attend church hold a biblical view of God, but only one-third (35%) agree that the Bible is totally accurate in all the principles it teaches.

Past studies of those who do not attend church have revealed that one of the main reasons for not attending is the painful experiences endured within the local church. A previous study shows that 37% of unchurched Americans said they avoid church because of bad past experiences in the church or with church people.

April Finances

MONTHLY

GIVING

Received Last

Sunday the 11^th

Received So Far

For The Month

Goals For

The Month

Tithes and Offerings

1,181.73

2,266.40

6,000.00

Building Fund Loan

149.00

444.00

696.89

Missions

Easter Offering

69.00

10.00

151.00

742.00

200.00

2,000.00

Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Jason E. Johnson) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:23:00 +0000

We are Easter People

Though the English word “Easter” comes from the name of a pagan feast in England, the celebration itself has no pagan roots. The Christian Easter is rooted in an actual datable event: the resurrection of Christ in the year 30 A.D.

The first celebration of Easter was not a yearly event but a weekly one. To the early Christians every Sunday was a mini-Easter. After Jesus’ death on the cross He first appeared to his fearful disciples on a Sunday. When Jesus reappeared to the disciples the following Sunday, doubting Thomas was there and fell to his knees exclaiming, “My Lord and my God!”

Jesus told Thomas, “You believe because you have seen Me. Blessed are those who haven't seen Me and believe anyway” (John 20:29). Christ died for us and was raised to new life! Believe and be saved, and become as blessed as an apostle.

The evidences of Jesus’ resurrection surround us. The early church thrived in the city where Jesus was put to death and now thrives around the world.

Jewish Christians began the Sunday worship. Though Saturday was the written-in-stone worship day for the Jews, the resurrection of Christ eventually caused Sunday to become the Christian worship day.

Changed lives are the greatest evidence. Any person can encounter the resurrected Christ by admitting they have a broken relationship with God, by believing Christ died to restore that relationship, and by confessing Jesus as Lord of their lives. Only believers know the reality of Christ. Receiving Christ brings hope and a new beginning that is beyond this world.

Thanks to all who helped with the Easter Egg Hunt with the boys and girls. They had a great time with plenty of candy and prizes.

The cost of teens going on to Celebrate Life at Olivet is $85. Make your check to the Hagerstown Church of the Nazarene and mark it “Celebrate Life.”

Secret Sister Sign-Up is underway. A new list is in the process of being created. Please see Lanelle to get your sign-up forms for your new secret sister.

Small group discipleship study is this Wednesday at 6:30 p.m..

Praise Team Singers practice Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

Easter Lilies have been a wonderful way to remember those loved ones we cherished. Give Pastor Fannin the names that your Easter Lily represent.

Church Board will ‘eat and meet’ next Sunday at the parsonage. Be there or be square.

Today is Resurrection Easter Sunday We are glad to have family and friends to make this a great Sunday celebrating the Lord’s resurrection.

An offering for missions is one way we celebrate the resurrection of Christ. The world needs to hear the Good News. Christ mandates us to “make disciples of all nations.” Our goal is $2,000 for this offering.

A new study released by the Barna Group reveals that a majority of Americans see Easter as a religious holiday, but fewer identify the resurrection of Christ as the underlying meaning. From February 7-10 of this year, 1,005 adults were interviewed by telephone regarding their opinions relating to Easter and what the holiday means to them. The research discovered that:

Two out of three Americans (67%) view Easter as a religious holiday.
Only 42% link Easter to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
2% say that Easter was about the "birth of Jesus."
3% describe Easter as a celebration of spring or a pagan holiday.
8% say that Easter means nothing to them or that they do not celebrate the occasion.

The study also revealed that 73% members of the Boomer generation (age 45-63) were more likely to describe Easter as a religious holiday than other age groups, 66% of Busters (age 26-44), 58% of Mosaics (age 18-25). It seems the younger the generation the less they realize the message of Easter.

The resurrection of Christ means that all that Jesus believed and taught to His disciples is true. The resurrection is reality. Inviting the resurrected Christ into our hearts gives us a new and true sense of meaning in life. Without Him we are nothing.

Church Calendar:

Sun. Apr. 11: Church Board ‘eat and meet’

Final March Finances

MONTHLY

GIVING

Received Last

Sunday the 28^th

Received

For March

Disbursed

For March

Tithes and Offering

1,360.00

5,746.00

5,765.49

Building Fund Loan

49.00

581.00

696.89

Missions

Easter Offering

57.00

5.00

296.26

231.00

296.26

231.00