Archive for October 2008

A Good Look at Missions

Play now A Good Look at Missions, Pastor Harv Meppelink, Sunday, 10-26-2008

Text: Matthew 24:14


Matthew 24:14 “And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then shall the end come.”

 

The heart of the Gospel is revealed in the story of the Cross.  John, in his writings, so clearly spells it out.  Man is a sinner.  He cannot save himself from his sin.  God loves man, but cannot accept his sin.  When man calls on God in faith and faith alone, God forgives and keeps on forgiving man’s sin, and promises him a home in heaven for eternity as a means of building an eternal relationship.

 

Imagine yourself in front of a cabinet makers work bench, and having a conversation with the tools that lay on it.

 

“Saw, why don’t you saw?” 

            Response: “By myself?”

 

“Sander, you lay there lazy like, why don’t you sand?”

            Response: “By myself?”

 

“Electric drill, you’re like new!  Why don’t you drill?”

            Response: “By myself?”

 

“And you, paint brush, why don’t you put a coat of paint on the house?  You know it needs to be finished!”

            Response: “By myself?”

 

Each tool had the same answer—

 

“I need a Master Craftsman–I’m just one small piece of equipment in the role of craftsmanship.”

 

 And in chorus, they all sang out:

 

“We are all your servants—just put your hand to us, and we will show you what we can do!”

 

And, after leaving the church one day this week, my spirit cried out to God, “Lord, make us willing to be a tool in your hand.  Send us a revival.”

 

“And I will send my Holy Spirit to help you get over your insecurities and to empower your words, and to make them real to their hearts, and many will hear and believe!”

 

 

 

I.              CAN WE FULFILL THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH?

 

The Apostle Paul stated in Acts 20:22-24   And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there.  I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me.  However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

 

I consider my life worth nothing to me. 

 

I want to answer the question, “How long has the Assemblies of God  (AG) been working in missions?”  In the very original minutes of the first meeting of ministers who joined together to work together in missions in the early 1900’s, even before the first organizational meeting which later became the General Council of the Assemblies of God, it reads:

 

“We commit ourselves to HIM, for the greatest evangelism task the world has ever seen.  We pledge our hearty cooperation.  We cooperate with the Lord of the harvest.”

 

We live in the year 2008, 94 years later.  In retrospect, we can see two things that took place in the fellowship in those early years.  We are living in the days our fathers dreamed of.

 

·        There was a continuous revival at home in America, as new churches were raised up all over the countryside of the American landscape.  We now have more than 12,000 churches in America.

 

·        There was a feverish commitment to missions overseas.  Missionaries would board ship in those early days, fully aware that they may never see their relatives again.  Many did not come home — ever, giving their lives to the work of missions.

 

The AG has commissioned more than 1862 missionaries, 600 missionary associates, numerous MAPS workers (very short term), into 158 countries.  Some of these countries cannot be placed on a printed list for security reasons.

 

In the Middle East, we have a vibrant church in Jordan (300). In Asia, we have a powerful missionary church in Hong Kong.  In Africa, Nigeria 700 AG church, with 3.5 million adherents. In Malawi, 1500 churches, Burkina Faso, 2500 churches, Tanzania, more than 1000 churches.  In Eurasia, Russia, we had 65 churches in 1990; in 1999 we now have 1300 churches.

 

In Latin America, there is phenomenal growth.  Over 500 million evangelicals and Pentecostals now.

 

AND STILL, THE NEED ALWAYS PRECEDES US.  IT IS OUT AHEAD OF US!  The world needs Jesus.

 

 

 

II.           DO YOU NOW SEE THE VALUE OF MISSIONS?

 

MAT 16:26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?

 

Do you now see why, right here in LEOMINSTER, we have a center of the Bible, where the word of God is taught Sunday morning?

 

Do you see why, right here in LEOMINSTER, we have set up ministries, where the presence and word of God is felt each and every day through dedicated workers?  Do you see why we have discipleship on Sunday night?

 

Who needs this hassle?  Who needs this organizational work?  Who needs the headaches of a church?

 

The answer from God is reflected in the value of a soul!  The value of a soul!

 

WHAT IS MISSIONS?  Missions is a sending forth, a sending forth of men with authority to preach, and administer the sacraments.

 

A MISSIONARY is one devoted to missions, the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

 

A MISSIONS ORGANIZATION is a group of people dedicated to the purpose of sending men forth who are committed to the purpose of preaching the good news about Jesus, and is willing to support those who go to another land for that purpose.

 

What is the purpose of Leominster Assembly of God?  First it is to WORSHIP GOD.  Secondly, it is to edify and disciple fellow believers.  Thirdly, we are here to evangelize the world: at home and abroad!

 

Our record shows that we give to missions, we pray for missionaries, we listen with apt attention to the reports of victory from around the world.  The flags that adorn this room are not there for decoration.  We are sending men and women into those countries to win the lost, and disciple new believers.  We must never lose sight of this vision.  WE must never become a social club, without this higher calling!  We have done well.  But the need is greater!

 

III.         MY PERSONAL TESTIMONY

 

At age 17, I was in business for myself, under the mentoring of my father.  I raised money for my education on the college level.  Since I grew up on the farm, my business was custom hay baling.

 

God blessed our business venture.  We earned a good profit.  I came face to face with giving for the furtherance of His Kingdom.  Do I tithe?  Do I give to missions?

 

This is what I learned as I went along!  Tithing is recognition of the sovereignty of our Heavenly Father.  I learned that God owns the hills and the cattle on the hills, and we as believers are but stewards of what He has given us. 

 

In Malachi 3, the Word of God declares, “Bring all your tithes into the storehouse…”  What is tithe?  It is ten percent of income.  What is it for?  It is to show that we recognize God’s owner ship and our stewardship of what we have in the way of things we have under our name.  We are to bring it, the tithe,  into the storehouse, the church!

 

But what about missions?  It was to be above the tithe, given to further the Gospel around the world, as in Matthew 28, “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel….”

 

It has worked for me for sixty years now.  My wife and I have never missed a meal through the years.  All of our bills are paid, with the exception of a small mortgage on our house.  We have been so blessed, a result of recognizing God in our finances.

 

Do you want to live with bills paid?  Catch the vision.  Then give, for we cannot receive from God if we do not give to God over and above what He requires…over and above the tithe. However,  I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

 

I conclude.

 

Matthew 24:14 “And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then shall the end come.”

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS 10-26-2008

WELCOME TO LEOMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF GOD

  • Welcome Center ~ Just inside our main entrance you will find friendly assistance, maps, and literature about LAOG.
  • Bulletin ~ Our weekly bulletin provides up-to-date information about what is happening at LAOG.
  • Web site ~ Check out www.laog.org for up-to-date information about ministries and staff, bulletin, calendar, sermon notes, etc.
  • LifeLine TV ~ Sunday services are aired on local access TV. Schedules are available at the Welcome Center.
  • LifeLine ~ WFGL 960 AM (1:15/6:00 AM, 5:15/9:00 PM, M-F)
  • Van Service ~ Call 978.534.1190 x19 for a ride to the Sunday morning services. Please call no later than Thursday.

OCTOBER 26, 2008 - MISSIONS CONVENTION

  • WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 and 11:00 AM
    • PARADE OF NATIONS
    • Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ (Youth Chapel)
    • Pastor Harv Meppelink begins our Missions Convention  “A Good Look at Missions” (Matthew 24:14)
  • CHRISTIAN EDUCATION, 10:00 AM, Classrooms & JA School
    • Overview of Fall 2008 classes is located at the Welcome Center.
  • PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY, 1:00, Pastor Mark’s office
  • CHRISTMAS CHOIR REHEARSAL, 2:00 PM, Sanctuary
  • Choir meets at 2:00 PM; Band meets at 3:30 PM
  • YOUNG ADULT GROUP, 4:30 PM, Youth Chapel
    • Young adults, 18 to mid-20s, study the Word, get assistance with life purpose planning, and pursue a life fully dedicated to the Lord.
  • YOUTH MINISTRIES BIBLE STUDY, 6:30 PM, Youth Chapel
    • Young people, ages 12-18, are encouraged to explore God’s Word and come to understand its relevance and power for them today!
  • 6:30 PM—Missionaries Roberto and Carla Marroquin
    • Come and hear what God is doing in Latin America!
    • Note: We will not be having Sunday Night Discipleship tonight so that everyone may attend our Missions Convention.

THIS WEEK

  • MONDAY
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)
  • TUESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)
    • 6:30 PM   English for All Nations
    • 7:30 PM   Christian 12-Step (Room 205)
  • WEDNESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Missionary Dr. Earl Creps
    • Children: BGMC Banquet  with Don  Butera (Fellowship Hall)
  • THURSDAY
    • 9:30 AM   A Place to Grow (Fellowship Hall)
    • The Power of a Praying Woman
    • 6:30 PM   A Place to Grow (Fellowship Hall)
    • The Power of a Praying Woman
    • Fresh Start Divorce Recovery Group
    • 7:00 PM   Worship Practice (Sanctuary)
  • SATURDAY
    • 4:00 PM   African Fellowship (Onos’ home)
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)

UP & COMING

  • ANGEL TREE—This year we will again have the opportunity to give Christmas gifts to children who have a parent who is incarcerated. In November we will have the names of the children and some information. David and Maria Litalien are the coordinators.
  • SUNDAY NIGHT DISCIPLESHIP will continue after the Missions Convention.  Beginning November 9 the new book for “Pathway of Discipleship” will focus on “How to Grow in Christ’s Character.”  Enjoy the missionary challenge this week and prepare your heart to once again delve into the Word of God together on Sunday nights from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.   Newcomers are welcome!  Regulars are urged to continue!
  • CHILD DEDICATION SERVICE (November 23). If you want to have your child dedicated (11:00 AM service), please fill out an application card (located at the Welcome Center) and turn it in.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • ESL is in need of another aid/helper. Please call Rita if you are interested.
  • Voter Guides. Presidential and state representative voter guides are located at the Welcome Center.
  • The African Fellowship prayer has been changed to the first Saturday of each month, 4:00 PM, 27 Winter Terr., Fitchburg.
  • Operation Christmas Child. Stop by the display in the foyer for a sign-up form, brochures, and shoeboxes.
  • Baker Needed for ESL. Someone is needed to bake a sheet cake every month as the school celebrates the ESL students’ birthdays. All supplies would be paid for by ESL. If you can help, please call Rita.
  • The Truth Project DVDs For Sale. These DVDs are now available to everyone for just $75. To purchase your set, please see the church treasurer, Denise Shatos, or call her at 978.534.1190, ext. 12.

SMALL GROUPS

  • HOMETEAMS
    • Fliers for HomeTeams, home discipleship small groups, are located at the Welcome Center (directions included).
    • Seekers of Light—men (every other Sunday, 3:00 PM—Nov. 2).
    • In Line with the Word (Tuesdays, 6:30 PM). Led by Sally Dyer, Lunenburg.
    • Christians in Action (Tuesdays, 7:00 PM).
    • Branches of Messiah (Wednesdays, 6:30 PM—Oct 22, 29).
    • Women of Faith (Fridays, 10:00 AM).
  • THE TRUTH PROJECT
    • Jim and Ginny Sullivan are hosting this DVD series at their Leominster home on Thursday nights.
  • WOMEN ~ A Place To Grow
    • The Power of a Praying Woman (every Thursday except third, 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM). DVD series, Fellowship Hall.
    • Fresh Start Divorce Recovery (every Thursday except third, 6:30 PM). Led by Charline Crocker, Fellowship Hall.
    • Koinonia (third Thursday of the month, 9:30 AM, 6:30 PM). Potluck brunch or dinner, Fellowship Hall.
  • ONCE-A-MONTH FELLOWSHIPS
    • Ministry of Joy (first Saturday of the month, 12:00-2:30 PM).
    • African Fellowship (first Saturday of the month, 4:00 PM). Led by Manny and Beatrice Onos, Fitchburg.

WAYS TO SERVE

  • Van Ministry. Drivers are needed—especially for first service. Please see Simon Adu or call the church office.

TAKE THE LAND UPDATE

  • Original Loan Amount:  $600,000
  • Paid Down from Church Budget:  70,982
  • Total Offerings, 6/07 - 10/08:  103,829
  • Current Loan Balance:  425,189
  • Average Monthly Offerings:  6,199
  • At an average $9500 extra applied each month, the loan should be paid off by August 2011.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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A WORD FROM PASTOR HARV

“And this Gospel of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then shall the end come (Matthew 24:14). Today we will be asked to open our hearts to missions and look at the heart of God who gave His Son to redeem a sinful world. This is a highlight of the calendar year, for we not only see and hear missionaries’ reports but we will be challenged to pray and give to spread the gospel worldwide. Open your heart to the Lord today, as we rejoice together.
Pastor Harv Meppelink

Hear God’s Voice

Play now #332, Hear God’s Voice, Pastor David McIntosh, Sunday 10-19-2008

Not So Easy series:
Text: Matthew 11:15

ANNOUNCEMENTS 10-19-2008

WELCOME TO LEOMINSTER ASSEMBLY OF GOD

  • Welcome Center ~ Just inside our main entrance you will find friendly assistance, maps, and literature about LAOG.
  • Bulletin ~ Our weekly bulletin provides up-to-date information about what is happening at LAOG.
  • Web site ~ Check out www.laog.org for up-to-date information about ministries and staff, bulletin, calendar, sermon notes, etc.
  • LifeLine TV ~ Sunday services are aired on local access TV. Schedules are available at the Welcome Center.
  • LifeLine ~ WFGL 960 AM (1:15/6:00 AM, 5:15/9:00 PM, M-F)
  • Van Service ~ Call 978.534.1190 x19 for a ride to the Sunday morning services. Please call no later than Thursday.

OCTOBER 19, 2008 - PASTOR APPRECIATION DAY

  • WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 and 11:00 AM
    • Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ (Youth Chapel)
    • Please designate your Take the Land offering.
    • We honor our pastors and their families today.
    • Pastor Dave McIntosh continues the Not So Easy series: “Hear God’s Voice” (Matthew 11:15)
  • CHRISTIAN EDUCATION, 10:00 AM, Classrooms & JA School
    • Overview of Fall 2008 classes is located at the Welcome Center.
  • CHRISTMAS CHOIR REHEARSAL, 2:00 PM, Sanctuary
    • Choir meets at 2:00 PM; Band meets at 3:30 PM
  • YOUNG ADULT GROUP, 4:30 PM, Youth Chapel
    • Young adults, 18 to mid-20s, study the Word, get assistance with life purpose planning, and pursue a life fully dedicated to the Lord.
  • SUNDAY NIGHT DISCIPLESHIP (SND), 6:15 PM, Fellowship Hall
    • Each Sunday evening, fellow Christians gather to discuss essential truths Jesus taught His disciples. Join us!
  • YOUTH MINISTRIES BIBLE STUDY, 6:30 PM, Youth Chapel
    • Young people, ages 12-18, are encouraged to explore God’s Word and come to understand its relevance and power for them today!

THIS WEEK

  • MONDAY
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)
  • TUESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)
    • 6:30 PM   English for All Nations
    • 7:30 PM   Christian 12-Step (Room 205)
  • WEDNESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Family Night
    • Rainbows (girls & boys, 3 up to K)
    • Girls Ministries (grades K-8)
    • Royal Rangers (boys’ clubs, K-12)
    • Adults and Youth: John Negron
  • THURSDAY
    • 9:30 AM   A Place to Grow (Fellowship Hall): The Power of a Praying Woman
    • 6:30 PM   A Place to Grow (Fellowship Hall):
    • The Power of a Praying Woman
    • Fresh Start Divorce Recovery Group
    • 7:00 PM   Worship Practice (Sanctuary)
  • SATURDAY
    • 4:00 PM   African Fellowship (Onos’ home)
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)

UP and COMING

  • Prayer Shawl Ministry (October 26). Please note that the group is not meeting on the third Sunday this month. See you next Sunday in Pastor’s office. Contact Alice Stacy: astacy@juniper.net.
  • Ministry of Joy Thanksgiving Celebration
  • (November 1). All adults are welcome to join in this great time of fellowship, worship led by Ron Crocker, games, fun, and food. If you plan on attending, please call Rita at 978.534.4742 for what you are to bring as it is a planned menu. See you then!
  • Disability Ministry Workshop (November 8). Joni and Friends Greater Boston wants to equip you to go “Through the Roof”…not letting obstacles stop you…persistently working to make it possible for people with disabilities to encounter Jesus. Pick up a brochure at the Welcome Center if interested in finding out more.
  • Child Dedication Service (November 23). If you want to have your child dedicated (11:00 AM service), please fill out an application card (located at the Welcome Center) and turn it in.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • Operation Christmas Child. Stop by the display in the foyer for a sign-up form, brochures, and shoeboxes.
  • Voter Guides. Presidential and state representative voter guides are located at the Welcome Center.
  • Baker Needed for ESL. Someone is needed to bake a sheet cake every month as the school celebrates the ESL students’ birthdays. All supplies would be paid for by ESL. If you can help, please call Rita.
  • The Truth Project DVDs For Sale. These DVDs are now available to everyone for just $75. To purchase your set, please see the church treasurer, Denise Shatos, or call her at 978.534.1190, ext. 12.
  • ESL Workers. The following were inadvertently omitted in last Sunday’s bulletin: Joanna Bowolick, Maria Litalien, Lilian Mbiyu, and Linda Powell. Thank you for your help in the ESL ministry each Tuesday!

SMALL GROUPS

  • HOMETEAMS
    • Fliers for HomeTeams, home discipleship small groups, are located at the Welcome Center (directions included).
    • Seekers of Light—men (every other Sunday, 3:00 PM—Oct 19).
    • In Line with the Word (Tuesdays, 6:30 PM). Led by Sally Dyer, Lunenburg.
    • Christians in Action (Tuesdays, 7:00 PM).
    • Branches of Messiah (Wednesdays, 6:30 PM—Oct 22, 29).
    • Women of Faith (Fridays, 10:00 AM).
  • THE TRUTH PROJECT
    • Jim and Ginny Sullivan are hosting this DVD series at their Leominster home on Thursday nights.
  • WOMEN ~ A Place To Grow
    • The Power of a Praying Woman (every Thursday except third, 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM). DVD series, Fellowship Hall.
    • Fresh Start Divorce Recovery (every Thursday except third, 6:30 PM). Led by Charline Crocker, Fellowship Hall.
    • Koinonia (third Thursday of the month, 9:30 AM, 6:30 PM). Potluck brunch or dinner, Fellowship Hall.
  • ONCE-A-MONTH FELLOWSHIPS
    • Ministry of Joy (first Saturday of the month, 12:00-2:30 PM).
    • African Fellowship (last Saturday of the month, 4:00 PM). Led by Manny and Beatrice Onos, Fitchburg.

WAYS TO SERVE

  • Van Ministry. Drivers are needed—especially for first service. Please see Simon Adu or call the church office.

TAKE THE LAND UPDATE

  • Original Loan Amount:  $600,000
  • Paid Down from Church Budget:  70,982
  • Total Offerings, 6/07 - 10/08:  103,094
  • Current Loan Balance:  425,924
  • Average Monthly Offerings:  6,248
  • At an average $9500 extra applied each month, the loan should be paid off by August 2011.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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A WORD FROM PASTOR DAVE

First John 3:24 states, “Those who obey his commands live in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.” The Bible reveals in this one verse the practical and spiritual relationship we are to have with God. We see the harmony of obedience to the teachings that Jesus gives us (His commands) with the witness of the Spirit that dwells inside of us. As we worship the Lord together, be sensitive to the practical message God has for your life today along with the ever-present need to be “Spirit-touched.” May God richly reward you as you hunger and thirst for Him!

Pastor David McIntosh

A Hungry Heart

Play now #331, A Hungry Heart, Pastor Mark Boucher, Sunday, 10-12-2008

Text: Matthew 5:1-6

ANNOUNCEMENTS 10-12-2008

Welcome to Leominster Assembly of God
Welcome Center ~ Just inside our main entrance you will find friendly assistance, maps, and literature about LAOG.
Bulletin ~ Our weekly bulletin provides up-to-date information about what is happening at LAOG.
Web site ~ Check out www.laog.org for up-to-date information about ministries and staff, bulletin, calendar, sermon notes, etc.
LifeLine TV ~ Sunday services are aired on local access TV. Schedules are available at the Welcome Center.
LifeLine ~ WFGL 960 AM (1:15/6:00 AM, 5:15/9:00 PM, M-F)
Van Service ~ Call 978.534.1190 x19 for a ride to the Sunday morning services. Please call no later than Thursday.

OCTOBER 12, 2008 - SOLEMN ASSEMBLY

  • WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 and 11:00 AM
    • Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ (Youth Chapel)
    • Pastor Mark Boucher will bring a message from the Word: “A Hungry Heart” (Matthew 5:1-6)
  • CHRISTIAN EDUCATION, 10:00 AM, Classrooms & JA School
    • Overview of Fall 2008 classes is located at the Welcome Center.
    • No adult classes will meet today. We will remain in the sanctuary to seek the Lord on this day of prayer and fasting.
  • SUNDAY NIGHT DISCIPLESHIP (SND), 6:00 PM, Fellowship Hall
  • SND will meet from 6:00 to 7:00 tonight and then will join in the Solemn Assembly service at 7:00.
  • YOUTH MINISTRIES BIBLE STUDY, 6:30 PM, Youth Chapel
    • The youth will meet as regularly scheduled in the Youth Chapel at 6:30. At 7:00 they will join in the Solemn Assembly service.
  • YOUNG ADULT GROUP, 7:00 PM, Sanctuary
    • The young adults will not meet this afternoon at 4:30. They will join in the Solemn Assembly service at 7:00.
  • SOLEMN ASSEMBLY SERVICE at 7:00 PM
    • Join us tonight for this special service as we worship and seek the Lord together and share in Communion. As we draw near to God, He will draw near to us.

THIS WEEK

  • MONDAY
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)
  • TUESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Prayer for Israel (Prayer Room)
    • 6:30 PM   English for All Nations
    • 7:30 PM   Christian 12-Step (Room 205)
  • WEDNESDAY
    • 6:30 PM   Family Night
    • Rainbows (girls & boys, 3 up to K)
    • Girls Ministries (grades K-8)
    • Royal Rangers (boys’ clubs, K-12)
    • Bless Israel Night
  • THURSDAY
    • 9:30 AM   Koinonia (Fellowship Hall)
    • 6:30 PM   Koinonia (Fellowship Hall)
    • 6:30 PM   Church Board Meeting
    • 7:00 PM   Worship Practice (Sanctuary)
  • SATURDAY
    • 9:00 AM   Enrich Conference (Worcester)
    • 7:00 PM   Prayer (Prayer Room)

UP & COMING

  • Koinonia (October 16). The Thursday women’s groups will enjoy the monthly potluck brunch at 9:30 AM or dinner at 6:30 PM. All women are invited. Come on out for a great time of fellowship and sharing. Siomara Nadreau will be speaking. Please sign up in the foyer if you plan to attend.
  • Enrich ’08 Church Ministries Conference (October 18). It’s not too late if you want to attend the 2008 district conference and workshops. Cost is now $25. Contact the church office ASAP to register (978.534.1190).
  • Child Dedication Service (November 23). If you want to have your child dedicated (11:00 AM service), please fill out an application card (located at the Welcome Center) and turn it in.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  • Baker Needed for ESL. English for All Nations is looking for someone who could bake a sheet cake every month as the school celebrates the ESL students’ birthdays. All supplies would be paid for by ESL. If you can help, please call Rita or the church office.
  • The Truth Project DVDs For Sale. These DVDs are now available to everyone for just $75. To purchase your set, please see the church treasurer, Denise Shatos, or call her at 978.534.1190, ext. 12.
  • Thank You … to all who participated in the BGMC Walk-a-thon by walking or sponsoring someone to walk. Children’s Ministries is very close to reaching their goal for 2008!

MINISTRY HIGHLIGHT

  • A new year has begun for English for All Nations (ESL). The school has registered 69 students from 14 countries and is still growing! Thanks to: Bobbie-Jo Riehle and Flavia Oliveira for helping at registration; Lori Nogler and Dara Esposito who are so faithful with the snack purchase and preparation; and all those serving as aides and helpers. Special thanks to the teachers: Lisa Beauregard, JoAnn Boehm, Tony Joseph, Sona Klimowicz, Bernadette Oinonen, Rita Trainque, and Theophilia Afful. We’re believing God for another great year—blessed and fruitful!

SMALL GROUPS

  • HOMETEAMS
    • Fliers for HomeTeams, home discipleship small groups, are located at the Welcome Center (directions included).
    • Seekers of Light—men (every other Sunday, 3:00 PM—Oct 19).
    • In Line with the Word (Tuesdays, 6:30 PM). Led by Sally Dyer, Lunenburg.
    • Christians in Action (Tuesdays, 7:00 PM).
    • Branches of Messiah (Wednesdays, 6:30 PM—Oct 22, 29).
    • Women of Faith (Fridays, 10:00 AM).
  • THE TRUTH PROJECT
    • Jim and Ginny Sullivan are hosting this DVD series at their Leominster home on Thursday nights.
  • WOMEN ~ A Place To Grow
    • The Power of a Praying Woman (every Thursday except third, 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM). DVD series, Fellowship Hall.
    • Fresh Start Divorce Recovery (every Thursday except third, 6:30 PM). Led by Charline Crocker, Fellowship Hall.
    • Koinonia (third Thursday of the month, 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM). Potluck brunch or dinner, Fellowship Hall.
  • ONCE-A-MONTH FELLOWSHIPS
    • Ministry of Joy (first Saturday of the month, 12:00-2:30 PM).
    • African Fellowship (last Saturday of the month, 4:00 PM). Led by Manny and Beatrice Onos, Fitchburg.

WAYS TO SERVE

  • Van Ministry. Drivers are needed—especially for first service. Please see Simon Adu or call the church office.

TAKE THE LAND UPDATE

  • Original Loan Amount:  $600,000
  • Paid Down from Church Budget:  70,982
  • Total Offerings, 6/07 - 9/08:  102,240
  • Current Loan Balance:  426,778
  • Average Monthly Offerings:  6,292
  • At an average $9500 extra applied each month, the loan should be paid off by August 2011.

Sunday services are recorded for broadcast purposes on local access TV. Please be aware that your image may be recorded. If this is a problem for you, please speak with an usher.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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A WORD FROM PASTOR MARK

In the Old Testament, national emergencies prompted the sounding of trumpets (rams’ horns). People everywhere would drop what they were doing and gather together to pray and decide what to do. The prophet Joel proclaimed, “Blow the trumpet in Zion, declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly (2:15). When we planned today’s fast day a few months ago, we had no way of knowing there would be a crisis in America at this time. This is a time of stress and fear … and great opportunity to share the hope of Jesus! Will we, His people, urgently seek Him at this time? Or will God’s warning be wasted as we “sleep in the light”? May we rise to new heights as we fall on our knees, crying out to God for those who so desperately need Him.

Pastor Mark Boucher

Watch and Pray

Play now #330, Watch and Pray, Pastor Mark Boucher, Sunday 10-05-2008

Not So Easy series:

Text: Matthew 26:36-46