I don’t know if you’ve heard of the supposedly true ghost story from South Carolina. This is how it goes. It supposedly happened a couple of years ago outside a little town in the low country of South Carolina, and while it sounds like an Alfred Hitchcock tale, it’s real. It’s least that’s what the author claimed when I read it.

This guy on the side of the road was hitchhiking on a really dark night in the middle of a thunderstorm. Time passed slowly and no cars came by. It was raining so hard he could hardly see his hand in front of his face. Suddenly he saw a car moving very slowly, approaching him, headlights off, and appearing ghostlike in the rain. It slowly crept toward him and stopped.

Wanting a ride really bad, the guy jumped in the car and closed the door, only then did he realize there was nobody behind the wheel. The car slowly started moving and the guy was terrified, too scared to even think of jumping out and running.

The guy then saw that the car was slowly approaching a sharp curve, still too scared to jump out. He started to pray, begging for his life to be spared. He was sure the “ghost car” would go off the road and end up in the marsh, and he would surely drown. Right at that moment though, just before the curve, a visible hand appeared through the driver’s window and turned the steering wheel, guiding the car around the bend.

Paralyzed with fear, the guy watched the hand reappear every time they reached a curve in the road. Finally, the guy scared nearly to death, had all he could take and jumped out of the car and ran to town.

Wet and in shock, he went into the first gas station he came to, with a quivering voice he told everyone about the experience he had just had. A silence enveloped and everyone got goose bumps when they realized the guy was telling the truth and was not just some nut.

About half an hour later two guys walked into the gas station, dripping wet, obviously they had been out in the storm for a while, and looking at the guy that had been telling the ghost story, one of them said, “Look Bubba, there’s the idiot who rode in our car when we were pushing it in the rain.”

You understand, what sometimes appears to be reality – isn’t reality.

Sometimes we need our eyes opened to what is really going on.

Sometimes all we see are the problems, or the difficulties, or the battles – without seeing what God is doing and we need our eyes to be opened.

There’s a little story in the Old Testament about the prophet Elisha and his servant. The king of Aram was approaching and Elisha’s servant was scared out of his gourd. The king and his army of chariots, horses, and battled tested warriors had surrounded the city.

Defeat looked inevitable. How could they possibly stand up to such a fierce and well-trained army? The servant was scared, like probably any of us would have been, if we had been there that day.

This is when the story gets good. It says:

“When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots surrounded the city. ‘Oh, my lord, what shall we do?’ the servant asked.

‘Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered, ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’

And Elisha prayed, ‘O Lord, open his eyes so he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.’ (II Kings 6:15-18)

I know some of you are in the midst of some battle, and all you can see is the enemy and how it appears that he has you surrounded. I am praying that your eyes might be open so that you might see what God is doing and how He is protecting you.

I’m praying what Paul prayed for the Ephesians when he wrote:

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead…” (Ephesians 1:18-20 NIV)

And so I’m praying for you. I’m praying that you will see that person as Jesus does. I’m praying that you will not only see the circumstances you’re in, or the battle you’re facing – but you will see God’s army that is protecting you from all harm. I’m also asking that you would pray for me, so that my eyes might be open also. I need to see God’s soldiers and chariots of fire that are in the hills, in greater number than the enemy.

DID YOU KNOW???

We have some students who are excelling in track this year. Breanna Cambre has qualified for the state meet in the high jump; Easton Bush has qualified for the state meet in the 100 meter and the 4 X 200 Relay, and Connor Burger qualified in the 4 X 100 Relay (came in 4th in the State) and also qualified in the 4 X400 Relay. Way to go!

NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTION – is right around the corner, Friday evening, June 15. On Sunday, May 20 and 27, you can sign up to be a volunteer in one of the many areas, your help will make this outreach event successful. You are needed! Sign up at the Information Center. You can also pick up your registration form for the 5K, which benefits Hope School.

Sojourn House Change for Change – pick up a baby bottle at the Information Center, fill it with change and bring back to the church by May 27th. Donations provide free service to victims living at Sojourn House.

Ladies Bible Study – Starting Thursday, June 7th and going through August 23rd. The morning group will meet in Room #106 at 10:30, the leaders will be Dara Voss and Peggy Tripp; the evening session will meet at 6:30 in Room #106 and the leaders will be Dara Voss and Susie Powell. They will be studying the book Women of Purpose by Cynthia Heald. Sign up at the Information Center so a book can be ordered for you. The cost of the book will be $10 and will be ordered on May 24th.

Sunday School Promotions – Our children will be promoted to their next class on Sunday, June 3rd, at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. A light breakfast will be served. After the ceremony the children will be dismissed to their classroom with their new teacher.

Graduation Recognition Day – Is anyone graduating from college ort receiving an advanced degree this year, if so we’d like to recognize you along with our high school graduates on Sunday, June 3rd. Please contact the church office. If you are having a reception or open house for your high school or college graduation and you are inviting the church family, please let Jean in the office know the time and place and she will publicize it in the bulletin this Sunday and next.

Baptism – Anyone who is interested in expressing their faith through baptism should contact Pastor Fred. As part of our Worship gathering on June 3rd we will be celebrating new faith through baptism.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

You are also invited to join Men Who Pray at 6:30 a.m. Thursday mornings at the altars of the church.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Beef Taco Salad with Tortilla Chips & Toppings, and Dessert. Please note the Café Mosaic Family Wednesday Dinner will take a summer break. The last Wednesday evening meal will be served on May 30th. The meals will begin again on Wednesday, September 5th.

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

This coming Sunday, May 20th, our wonderful nursery volunteers are Michelle Hunt and Stephanie Bolt with the infants, and Greg, Brenda, and Sarah Harris with toddlers, and Mindy Palmer is the floater. This Wednesday, May 16th, our nursery will be staffed by Janice and Brenna Young. Thank you!

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

Teen Car Wash – Saturday, May 26, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at One Stop Auto in Chatham. All proceeds will benefit the teen program to help them with camps, trips, activities, etc. These kids to a great job of washing cars! Let’s support them!

Middle School Small group Summer Schedule

June 10 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Treasure Hunt – meet at Church & end up at the Botts’ home

June 24 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Swim Party at the Sanguedolce

July 28th – Saturday – 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. St Louis Zoo – Bring a sack lunch and meet at church

August 5 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Game Night at the Botts’

Teen Mystery Trip – If you’re planning on going on the Teen Mystery Trip you must contact Pastor Jay to get your name on the list. If you’re attending Teen Camp (June 25-29) the deposit for both is $150. Final payment is June 1.

Upcoming Events:

May 16-19 – Celebrate Life at ONU, Kankakee

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Trudy Fleming Tucker’s father, Jim Fleming, made the transition to heaven yesterday afternoon, continue to remember the family in prayer

Sue McGill father has also passed away – remember the family in prayer

Janet Gille as she continues to recover from open heart surgery

Fran Herwehe is at Regency Nursing Home for rehab

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Shelia Leggett

Dorcas Chandra

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Press play below, download the file (instructions below), and/or subscribe to our podcast.
Podcasting Instructions:
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2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

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4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

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To Listen Right Now:

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Now that I’m a grandpa I think about these things a little more often and remember when.

Let me tell you the moment I felt the full force of parenthood.

You know the old nursery rhyme, first came love, then came marriage, then came the discussion of the baby carriage. Of course I was open to the idea, especially when I considered my role in launching the effort. Somehow, though, during the nine-month expansion project, the reality of fatherhood didn’t dawn on me. Even when we brought Nathan home, it still hadn’t kicked in what being a father meant. When he woke up crying at night, Teri was out the bed in a flash with all of her maternal instincts in high gear – so I learned to sleep through his middle of the night outbursts, and later could sleep through Teri’s sharp elbows. When I fed him, and bathed him, and played with him, and even changed a few diapers, I thought it was new and fun; he was cute, I loved him, but the responsibility of parenthood still didn’t click for me.

But there was a very distinct moment when I realized I was a dad, and I also realized what that really meant. Nathan was about six weeks old, and Teri and I loaded up the stroller and the diaper bag and all the other junk you have to take with you whenever you go somewhere with a baby.

We were going to the mall. I don’t think we were even shopping. We were just going to walk around. At one point we stopped and sat down and a total stranger walked up to us and asked if she could see our baby. As new, first time parents we, of course, were proud to show off the cutest baby in the world; and the very first baby who didn’t look like Winston Churchill for the first three months of his life.

We made some small talk with this stranger. She told us how adorable he was, and we couldn’t agree more. She asked us how old he was, and where he was born. And we really didn’t think much about it – it seemed like normal conversation to us. But then she asked if she could hold him. I knew she couldn’t outrun me. She seemed very nice. It didn’t enter my mind that there was even a possibility of danger. And so we allowed her to hold our baby. As she held Nathan she told us she had given birth to a son, but he had died soon after birth, and then she said, “My son looked just like your son.”

She handed Nathan back to us, opened up her purse and pulled out a picture of her son. And she was right. Her son looked exactly like Nathan. Both Teri and I were creeped out just a bit because the resemblance was so strong.

Well, the stranger went her way and we went our way – but we talked about how weird that encounter was, and how much her son really did look like Nathan.

We then quickly forgot about it and just went back to all of our normal activities of our busy lives. Sunday came, we went to our church. We left Nathan in the nursery, enjoyed Sunday school and worship, and then went to pick Nathan up from the nursery.

As we approached the nursery…we saw her…the stranger from the mall. She was standing outside the nursery, and looking through the window at all the babies. And let me tell you in that very moment the reality of being a father kicked in with full force.

I thought, we thought, “What is she doing here? Is she going to try to steal our baby?”

And this never-before-experienced fear rose up in me – not a fear that would make me run away – but a fear that would make me fight to the death if necessary to protect my child.

It was in that very moment I finally realized what it really meant to be a father. It was in that moment I realized fully the responsibility that went with being a dad.

We picked Nathan up and went home. Teri and I talked about it later and we couldn’t remember if when we talked to this woman at the mall, we had mentioned which church we attended. And because the church we attended was rather large, there was the slim possibility that she attended the same church we did, and we just weren’t aware of it. But we didn’t really think that was the situation.

We never confronted her or accused her of anything. And we never saw her again at our church, maybe because we moved back to Michigan about a month later. But let me tell you we lived on red alert for that month. We told every person who worked in the nursery our story and our concerns – and warned them to make sure they gave the babies only to their parents, which of course is what they already did. We told other parents. We kept Nathan with us from then on when we went to church.

Now I don’t know if that woman had any evil intent. Maybe just looking at Nathan helped her deal with her own great grief. I hope that was the case.

But you understand I was going to do everything in my power to protect my son. And it was in that moment that I realized what it really meant to be a parent, with all of the responsibility that goes with it. It was in that moment I realized I would give up anything, everything, even my own life, if that is what was necessary, to protect my son.

We all understand no parent worth his or her salt, can sit still while his or her child is suffering, or is in danger, or is making harmful decisions. And let me tell you, just in case there’s a slight chance you don’t know this: You never stop being a parent, no matter what the age of your child. You never stop wanting to protect your child.

In this week leading up to Mothers’ Day, I want to thank all of you moms (and dads) who have loved and protected, and have run to that hurting child, no matter what their age.

You are our heroes!

DID YOU KNOW???

Church Board Meeting (new and re-elected board members) tonight at 7:00 p.m. for an organizational meeting and time of prayer, meeting in the sanctuary.

Zone Mission Rally – David and Marquita Mosher from Malawi will be at the Auburn Church of the Nazarene this Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Teen and children in attendance will have their name in a drawing for one half off camp scholarship.

Sunday, May 13th is Mothers’ Day and we will be recognizing all Moms in our Worship Gathering on that day.

CPR and First Aid Class – Become certified in CPR and First Aid by attending the class being offered here at the church on Saturday, May 12th, 9:00 a.m. $5 donation covers the cost of the class and the Certification Card. The certified instructor is Tom Hiatt. Please RSVP by calling the office or by seeing Tom.

Sunday School Promotions – Our children will be promoted to their next class on Sunday, June 3rd, at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. A light breakfast will be served. After the ceremony the children will be dismissed to their classroom with their new teacher.

Graduation Recognition Day – Is anyone graduating from college ort receiving an advanced degree this year, if so we’d like to recognize you along with our high school graduates on Sunday, June 3. Please contact the church office. Also, if you are planning a reception for your graduate, please call the office and give Jean the information so she can put it in the bulletin.

Baptism – Anyone who is interested in expressing their faith through baptism should contact Pastor Fred. As part of our Worship gathering on June 3rd we will be celebrating new faith through baptism.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Chicken Salad, Potato Chips, Salad, and Dessert

Mother’s Day Cinnamon Rolls In honor of our mothers, this coming Sunday, iced cinnamon rolls will be offered at $1 each from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. in the Family Life Center.

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Ladies Monthly Craft Night – Saturday May 12th- RSVP to Tricia Ballweg Barrington by Friday, May 11th if you’d like space for the craft night, 5:00 – 10:45 p.m. No fee, bring your own snacks and beverages.

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

This coming Sunday, May 13h our wonderful nursery volunteers are Stefan Bladen and Lisa Houston with the infants, and Nicole Montalbano and Kyle Shaughnessy with toddlers, and Shelby Sarginson is the floater. This Wednesday, May 9th, our nursery will be staffed by Lisa Houston and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

KUDOS

Dear Church Family: We’d like to thank you for the lovely flowers, cards, and all the prayers we have received during my mother’s illness and passing. We appreciate your kindness and support during the past two years. God was present in her home during her final days and I will be forever grateful for His peace and comfort to her and our family. Thanks again and God bless. Julie Duncan and family

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

Middle School Small group Summer Schedule

June 10 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Treasure Hunt – meet at Church & end up at the Botts’ home

June 24 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Swim Party at the Sanguedolces’

July 28th – Saturday – 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. St Louis Zoo – Bring a sack lunch and meet at church

August 5 – Sunday – 5:30-8:30 Game Night at the Botts’

Teen Mystery Trip – If you’re planning on going on the Teen Mystery Trip you must contact Pastor Jay to get your name on the list. If you’re attending Teen Camp (June 25-29) the deposit for both is $150. Final payment is June 1.

Up Coming Dates:

May 13 – Mothers’ Day

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Darin Burdinsky dad passed away – funeral will be

Janet Gille as she recovers from open heart surgery

Fran Herwehe is at Regency Nursing Home for rehab

Mary Alice Hunt – as she recovers from a heart procedure

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Shelia Leggett

Dorcas Chandra

Last Wednesday, April 25th, was the 30th anniversary of the first day I stepped behind a pulpit as a pastor and delivered a sermon. Now I, of course, had preached before that time. I had preached in my home church. I had preached in many different classes in college and then in seminary. I had preached in the church I had done my field training (kind of like student teaching). But on April 25, 1982 when I stepped behind the pulpit at Marlette Church of the Nazarene, in Marlette Michigan, a little farming community in the “thumb” of the state, it was my first sermon as pastor.

On that Sunday we had 55 in attendance and the offering that Sunday morning was $307.10. Two things stand out in my memory from that very first Sunday as a pastor. One happened at the very end of that first sermon. Kitty-corner from the church was the community tornado siren. And everyone from Marlette was used to the siren going off at 12:00 noon, every day, every single day. I don’t know if they used to let farmers know it was lunchtime; I don’t know if they just loved having their eardrums shattered every day at noon. But everyone from Marlette knew about the siren going off at noon and had gotten used to it.

Well, at that point I wasn’t “from” Marlette, so I didn’t know about the siren. And no one at the church mentioned to me that at precisely at noon the siren would begin to blare. So, here I was this rookie, green-as-could-be-preacher, preaching my first sermon to them, and while I knew the congregation was used to getting out at noon, I didn’t really think they’d mind if I went over just a bit. So, as I was winding down the sermon, just about to call us to prayer, the clock struck noon and that siren began to blare. And by blare, I mean ear shattering, windows rattling, not able to hear anything at all until it had stopped.

It was so loud, and so unexpected that I thought it was the last trumpet announcing the return of Jesus. My heart raced. If I hadn’t have been 25 years old I might have had a heart attack. And I learned a valuable lesson that very first Sunday. Never again, in the three and half years I would serve there as pastor, never again, did I ever miss finishing the sermon, the prayer, and the altar call by noon.

The other thing that happened that Sunday morning was when I first walked up the steps of this little white framed, country church. It was the very first time I had ever walked into a church as a pastor. In a couple of hours I would preach the first sermon I had ever preached as a pastor.

Very early on that Sunday morning, I went all by myself into the sanctuary of that little church and did for the first time what I have done almost every Sunday now for 30 years. I began to pray for the people that would be attending the church service on that Sunday morning. At that point I didn’t know them by name, so I just prayed generally for them.

Today, I know you by name, and so every Sunday morning, long before you ever walk through the doors of the sanctuary I have prayed for you. I have lifted your name and your family to the Lord. I have asked the Lord to speak to you during our worship gatherings.

And on that particular Sunday morning 30 years ago, I prayed something like, “Lord, I’m really scared. I’m not sure I can do this preaching thing. You’re going to have to take the feeble, stumbling attempt of this green, rookie pastor, and do something, because I’m not capable of doing this Lord.”

I then got up from praying and I just started walking around the inside of the church. It didn’t take me very long because the church was so little. But as I walked to the back of the sanctuary, I opened up a door that I thought was a closet, and I saw this thick, old, rope hanging down. I looked up and realized there was great big, old bell in the steeple of this old country church, and this rope is what you pulled to ring it.

I thought to myself, “That is so cool!” I grew up in the city, where we didn’t have churches with bells in their steeples. And if any of them did have bells they certainly weren’t rung early on a Sunday morning.

As I looked up at this old bell, I wondered if they still rung it on Sunday mornings. I couldn’t wait for the first person to show up so I could ask them, “Do you still ring the bell?”

Well, Dale Showers, the Sunday School Superintendent, was the first to show up that morning. I said, “Dale, do you still ring the bell to tell people it’s time to come to church?”

And he said, “Absolutely.”

I said (I felt like a little kid) a bit too excitedly, “Can I ring the bell?”

He looked at me like, “You’re our new pastor?” But he said to me, “Sure.”

So on April 25, 1982 at about 9:30 in the morning I grabbed that old rope and yanked on it, and

continued to yank on it for about three or four minutes minutes. And the crystal clear ringing of that bell began

to resound and ripple through the airwaves of that small town. Everyone could hear it, and everyone new it was time to go to church. And people began to come out of their houses and make their way to their different churches in town.

Today I realize that while our church doesn’t have a bell to ring; and even if it did and we rang it would probably just irritate people…not invite them to church. But I realize my job as pastor is still being the bell ringer. For 30 years by the sermons I preach and the life I live, I think I’m supposed to ring the bell and call people to Christ. And while I’ve had many times over these past 30 years when I’ve really questioned whether I was ringing the bell effectively, I still know that’s exactly what God has called me to do.

If you’ve been in my office you know I have a large bell on a stand in there. It’s there to simply remind me to be a bell ringer.

The truth is each one has a part in making us the church God has called us to be. Not everyone can be a bell ringer, but everyone, every Christ follower has a part in making us the church God wants us to be.

Are you doing your part?

DID YOU KNOW???

This coming Sunday, May 6th is “Baby Day!” We will take time during our Worship Gathering to recognize those families with children under 4 years old and to lift them in prayer as they fulfill this awesome responsibility as parents.

Sunday, May 13th is Mothers’ Day and we will be recognizing all Moms in our Worship Gathering on that day.

CPR and First Aid Class – Become certified in CPR and First Aid by attending the class being offered here at the church on Saturday, May 12th, 9:00 a.m. $5 donation covers the cost of the class and the Certification Card. The certified instructor is Tom Hiatt. Please RSVP by calling the office or by seeing Tom this week.

Sunday School Promotions – Our children will be promoted to their next class on Sunday, June 3rd, at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. A light breakfast will be served. After the ceremony the children will be dismissed to their classroom with their new teacher.

Graduation Recognition Day – Is anyone graduating from college ort receiving an advanced degree this year, if so we’d like to recognize you along with our high school graduates on Sunday, June 3. Please contact the church office.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Barbeque, Macaroni & Cheese, Potato Chips , Salad, and Desser

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Ladies Monthly Craft Night – Saturday May 12th- RSVP to Tricia Ballweg Barrington by Friday, May 11th if you’d like space for the craft night, 5:00 – 10:45 p.m. No fee, bring your own snacks and beverages.

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

Baptism – anyone interested in being baptized should call the office. We will have a baptism after the Morning Worship Gathering on Sunday, June 3rd.

KUDOS

Thanks to everyone who did community service this last Saturday. Our children’s wing, landscaping, light replacements are all completed as a result of your hard work and sense of community. Special thanks to Pastor Gregg’s teen small group for preparing the most delicious breakfast for us before we set out to do our community projects!

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

Acts of Service – tomorrow. Teens leave the church at 5:30 to serve Contact Ministries. They will return at 7:30 p.m.

Up Coming Dates:

May 6 – Baby Day

May 13 – Mothers’ Day

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Fran Herwehe is at Regency Nursing Home for rehab

Mary Alice Hunt – will have a heart stent put in Thursday

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Darin Burdinsky’s dad – lung cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Shelia Leggett

Dorcas Chandra

Janet Gille – chest pains & heart cath tomorrow

Either today or Thursday would have been Teri’s mom’s 91st birthday. It’s not that I don’t remember which is the proper date; I just don’t know which is the right date.

Mary made her grand entrance into heaven in March of 2009. But we’re not sure which day she was born. You see for all of her life Mary had celebrated her birthday on April 24th. She told everyone that was when her birthday was. That was date on her driver’s license. That was the date that Teri and her sister always called their mom and sang her “Happy Birthday.” That was the date, whoever she was living with or by, would take her out to lunch or dinner to celebrate her birthday.

But after her passing and all the arrangements had to be made, which included getting her birth certificate from the county in Tennessee where she was born, they discovered that her birth certificate was dated April 26th, 1921. So, they really don’t know which date is correct.

They know she was born at home. They know that April 24, 1921 was a Sunday. They don’t know if a doctor helped to deliver her or whether a midwife did. They don’t know if there was a delay in doing the paper work because she was born on a Sunday which may have caused the discrepancy. They don’t know if her parents got it wrong and told Mary the wrong date.

We’re not sure how it happened but for 87 years Mary had celebrated her birthday on April 24th, while her birth certificate said she was born on April 26th.

This is one of my favorite “Mary Stories.”

Teri’s mom, when we lived in Michigan, lived at an independent living place called The Inn on Cass Lake. They had all these activities right there that the people could join in and get to know one another. They had Bible studies, and exercise classes, game night, and movie night. Just a wide range of activities. And at some these activities they could win, what I think they called, “Inn Dollars.” And then, ever so often they’d have an auction where they could buy with their Inn Dollars a number of different things.

Well, before Christmas this one year they were going to have one of their auctions. Mary had stockpiled quite a few Inn Dollars. She hadn’t used them for anything and she decided she’d go to the auction. She looked over what they were auctioning off and really didn’t see anything she was interested in, but she decided she stay for the auction anyway.

There was one resident who had bought a number of things already, and then a Santa Claus door hanger came up for auction. I guess it was something you could hang on the door of your apartment. And this one little old lady was bidding, and then the one who had already bought a number of things also got into the bidding. Well, it was real obvious that this frail little old lady, for whatever reason, really wanted that Santa Claus door hanger. But this other lady just kept bidding higher, and higher. In fact, she kept bidding until this other lady obviously didn’t have enough Inn Dollars to make the next bid. And by the look on her face, you could just tell she was so disappointed, and the other lady sat with a smug look on her face, like she had just won the fight of her life.

It was right then that Mary decided she had found a good way to use her Inn Dollars. So for the first time she put in a bid, it was more, than the second lady had. Mary walked up to get her Santa Claus door hanger, and then she immediately walked over to this little old frail lady and handed it to her. And big ole tears began to run down her cheeks, she was so happy.

Now I have no clue why a Santa Claus door hanger could be so important to her, but you can bet every time she saw Mary after that, she saw someone that was clothed in kindness.

Who is it in your life that needs to see you clothed in kindness? A family member, a friend, or how about an enemy?

Paul wrote to the Colossians, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12 NIV)

So, no matter what day you were born, why not be a “doer” of the Word and “do” a kind thing today for someone.

DID YOU KNOW???

Ignite Weekend! Is coming. This week! THIS WEEK!!

April 27, Friday 7:00 p.m. James Wang sharing his testimony

April 28, Saturday **8:30 Breakfast together (be sure and sign up or call this office so we know how many to cook for)

9:00 Service Projects

6:30 p.m. Overcoming the Ashes at Centrum Café

April 29, Sunday 10:30 Worship Gathering – Rev. Walter Woolford from Trinidad and Tobago preaching

6:00 p.m. “Courageous” movie will be shown

Canned goods will be collected at all events and will be donated to Contact Ministries.

Annual Elections – All those who are members of Springfield First and are at least 15 years of age are eligible to vote before the morning Worship Gatherings this Sunday, April 29th. Sample ballot is available for viewing in the foyer.

The Easter Offering for missions and “Giving for Others” will remain open through the month of April. Ask the Lord what He would have you to give so you can be a part of taking the Gospel to every nation and make Christ-like disciples. This foundational principle of giving for others helps us fulfill our mission as a church.

CPR and First Aid Class – Become certified in CPR and First Aid by attending the class being offered here at the church on Saturday, May 12th, 9:00 a.m. $5 donation covers the cost of the class and the Certification Card. The certified instructor is Tom Hiatt. Please RSVP by calling the office or by seeing Tom before Sunday April 29th.

Sunday School Promotions – Our children will be promoted to their next class on Sunday, June 3rd, at 9:30 a.m. in the gym. A light breakfast will be served. After the ceremony the children will be dismissed to their classroom with their new teacher.

Graduation Recognition Day – Is anyone graduating from college or receiving an advanced degree this year? If so we’d like to recognize you along with our high school graduates on Sunday, June 3. Please contact the church office.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Chicken and Noodles, Garlic Bread, Salad, and Dessert

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Ladies Monthly Craft Night – Saturday May 12th- RSVP to Tricia Ballweg by Friday, May 11th if you’d like space for the craft night, 5:00 – 10:45 p.m. No fee, bring your own snacks and beverages

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

This coming Sunday, April 29th our wonderful nursery volunteers are LaVon Nelson and Kathy Hedden with the infants, and Joyce Workman and Mike DeClue with toddlers, and Mindy Palmer is the floater. This Wednesday, April 25th, our nursery will be staffed by Lisa Houston and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

Mystery Trip Parent Meeting – This Wednesday at either 5:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. in room #106. Mystery Trip and Camp deposit of 50% is due May 1st. Balance will be due June 1st.

Upcoming Dates:

April 27-29 “Ignite Weekend!”

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Jim Gille’s brother is in the hospital and his brother’s wife passed away last week.

Fran Herwehe is at Regency Nursing Home for rehab

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Darrin Burdinsky’s dad – lung cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Shelia Leggett

Dorcas Chandra

Wally Groesch

Press play below, download the file (instructions below), and/or subscribe to our podcast.
Podcasting Instructions:
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2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

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4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

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They’re right!

They told me it would be this way, and they were right. There’s nothing like it. There’s nothing better. It is great being a dad, but it is grand being a grandfather. They put the “grand” in the word father. Instantly, from the moment I met Connor on Monday, April 9, I fell in love with the little guy. I won’t bore you with the details about how he is the cutest, smartest, most athletic, most musically gifted, and the most artistic child ever; suffice it to say he is.

I know he doesn’t know who I am, but he captured my heart when I would cuddle him close to my chest and he would soon fall asleep. Teri said, at six weeks old he just liked the warmth of my body and hearing a strong heart beat. She ‘s probably right, but I convinced myself it was because grandpa was holding him.

It was amazing the smiles he had for his Aunt Ashley. Ashley has never-ever been a baby person, but for some reason this baby seemed to adore her and was able to capture her heart as he would smile at her.

And how quickly he captured Teri’s heart. He was fussing and crying and being a bit colicky one morning, as babies have a tendency to be. Dad was at work; mom was getting ready for the day; Aunt Ashley couldn’t console him this time; Grandpa’s warm body didn’t seem to satisfy him; and so Grandma came over swooped him up in her arms and began to sing a nonsensical song to baby Connor, and instantly, I mean instantly, he stopped crying and began to snuggle in close to his grandma. He had already captured her heart before that amazing moment – but from that very second I could tell he had his grandmother wrapped around his itty-bitty finger.

I did recently read a third grader’s description of a grandmother. This is what he wrote:

A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own. She likes other people’s little girls and boys. A grandfather is a man grandmother. He goes for walks with the boys, and they talk about fishing and stuff like that.

Grandmothers don’t have anything to do except to be there. They’re so old they shouldn’t play hard or run. It is enough if they drive us to the market where the pretend horse is, and have lots of dimes ready. Or if they take us for walks, they should slow down past things like pretty leaves and caterpillars. They should never say, “hurry up.”

Usually, grandmothers are fat, but not too fat to tie your shoes. They wear glasses and funny underwear. They can take their teeth and gums off.

Grandmothers don’t have to be smart, only answer questions like, “Why isn’t God married?” and “How come dogs chase cats?”

Grandmothers don’t talk baby talk like visitors do, because it is hard to understand. When they read to us, they don’t skip or mind if it is the same story over again.

Everybody should try to have a grandmother, especially if they don’t have a television, because they are the only grownups who have time.

Now, probably not one thing that third grader wrote about his grandmother would apply to Teri; the words wouldn’t apply but the spirit behind the words would, for he was describing someone who loved him unconditionally, and made time for him.

You may not have a grandchild yet, but you have an opportunity to love your family unconditionally right now; and give them the time they need right now; and be there for them right now.

By the way, I want to apologize for killing the Easter Bunny on Easter Sunday. I’ve heard of preachers who have preached against the Easter Bunny, but I have never heard of one who killed the Easter Bunny. But this past Easter as I approached the driveway to the church, “very early in the morning while it was still dark,” a suicidal bunny darted from the shoulder of the road; and while I tried to hit the brakes and swerve to avoid it, I was not successful as I heard the dreaded thumpity-thump. So, I am the guilty one. If you missed out on an egg hunt, or no candy was delivered to your house you can blame me. I killed the Easter Bunny.

DID YOU KNOW???

Are you a prayer partner? You can be one by simply going to our website (SpringfieldFirst.com), click on the Prayer Request link on the right column under Ministries. Once on the site, you will be asked to enter your name (small letters only and no space between your name; i.e. fredprince) then enter your password, and type in the security measure (third). Now you are a prayer partner. You can then enter your prayer requests. Also, an automatic prayer request will come to your computer from the site (soulembraced@gmail.com) any time a prayer request is made by anyone. If you have any questions about this, call Jean Pickett in the office, and she’ll help you get set up.

Ignite Weekend! Is coming. April 27-29 mark it on your calendars now!

April 27, Friday 7:00 p.m. James Wang sharing his testimony

April 28, Saturday 8:30 Breakfast together

9:00 Service Projects

6:30 p.m. Overcoming the Ashes at Centrum Café

April 29, Sunday 10:30 Worship Gathering

6:00 p.m. “Courageous” (the movie will be shown)

Annual Elections – All those who are members of Springfield First and are at least 15 years of age are eligible to vote before the Morning Worship Gatherings on April 22nd and April 29th. Sample ballot is available for viewing in the foyer.

The Easter Offering for missions and “Giving for Others” will remain open through the month of April. Ask the Lord what He would have you to give so you can be a part of taking the Gospel to every nation and make Christ-like disciples. This foundational principle of giving for others helps us fulfill our mission as a church.

Teen Car Wash – Come to One Stop Auto Shop in Chatham this coming Saturday, April 21st, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and get your car washed by our teens. Proceeds will benefit our teen ministry.

CPR and First Aid Class – Become certified in CPR and First Aid by attending the class being offered here at the church on Saturday, May 12th, 9:00 a.m. $5 donation covers the cost of the class and the Certification Card. The certified instructor is Tom Hiatt. Please RSVP by calling the office or by seeing Tom before Sunday, April 29th.

Men’s Softball League – will play their first game at Calvary Ball Diamond on Jefferson Street this Friday, April 20th. If you are interested in being on Springfield First’s team, contact Rob Young at 652-9870.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Hamburgers, Baked Beans, Chips, Salad, and Dessert

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

This coming Sunday, April 22nd our wonderful nursery volunteers are Kristi Lamb and Susie Jaynes with the infants, and Keith Nelson and Shelby Sarginson with toddlers, and Mindy Palmer is the floater. This Wednesday, April 18th, our nursery will be staffed by Janice Young and Mindy Palmer. Thank you!

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

Car Wash – April 21, One Stop Auto in Chatham, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Upcoming Dates:

April 27-29 “Ignite Weekend!”

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Fran Herwehe is at Regency Nursing Home for rehab

Mary Alice Hint – Memorial Hospital with breathing difficulties

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Darin Burdinsky’s dad – lung cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Shelia Leggett

Dorcas Chandra

Bob Gille

Bonnie Hester

Press play below, download the file (instructions below), and/or subscribe to our podcast.
Podcasting Instructions:
1. Open iTunes
2. Go to the “Advanced” menu and choose “Subscribe to Podcast“
3. In the box that pops up paste:

http://www.springfieldfirst.com/?feed=podcast

4. Click on “OK”
5. Springfield First Church of the Nazarene Sermon Podcast will show up in your podcast list.

To Download and Save to Your Computer:

Right click here and choose “save target as” or “save link as”, depending on your browser.

To Listen Right Now:

Press the “play” button below.

The Bible says the Kingdom of God is like a merchant looking for a fine pearl. (Matthew 13:45) When he finds the pearl of real worth he sells everything he has to buy the pearl.

We understand that Jesus is the pearl of great price.

We understand we, that would be you and me, are the merchants.

So when we find Jesus it costs man everything.

In Jesus we discover joy, peace, security, contentment, victory, worth, value, and eternal life.

We marvel at such a pearl and say, “Oh, I want that pearl. How much does it cost?”

And the seller says, “It costs dearly.”

“Well, how much?”

“It’s very expensive.”

“Well, do you think I could buy it?”

“Of course, anybody can.”

“How can anybody by it, if it’s so expensive?

And the seller says, “It costs you everything you have. Therefore anybody can have it, you just have to give God everything.”

“Okay, I’ll buy it.”

“What do you have?”

“Well, I have $10,000 in the bank.”

“He’ll take that. What else do you have?”

“Well, not much. I’ve got a few dollars in my pocket.
“How much?”

“Well, let me see. 20, 40, 50 100, $120.”

“Okay, that’s fine. What else do you have?”

“I don’t have anything else, that’s all.”

“Where do you live?”

“Well, I live in my house.”

“Oh, He’ll take that too.”

“You mean my house? If He has my house I suppose I’ll have to sleep in the garage.”

“Oh, He’d like that also.”

“Well, if I give Him my garage, I’ll have to sleep in my car.”

“How many cars do you have?”

“Two.”

“Good, He’ll take both of them.”

“Wow! You’ve taken everything. I have nothing left.”

“Oh, are you alone in the world?”

“Well, no I have my wife and two kids.”
“Oh, He’ll take those too.”

“You mean He’s going to take my wife and two kids? I have nothing else. I’m alone.”

“Oh, He’ll take that too.

Have you really given everything, I mean everything, to Him?

He is the Pearl of Great Price. Are you ready to give your all to experience His all?

On Easter Sunday, April 8th, we will begin receiving our Easter Offering for missions and “giving to others.” This is a foundational principle that helps us fulfill our mission as a church. It’s an opportunity to give of our resources to help others hear the “Good News of Jesus.” The Church of the Nazarene worldwide has grown from 1.4 million in 2009 to 2.1 million (and still growing) today. We are making a difference in our world! Ask the Lord what He would have you give to our ever-increasing responsibility to take the Gospel to every nation and to make Christ-like disciples.

DID YOU KNOW???
Easter Services:

Friday, April 6 – 7:00 p.m. Good Friday Service – Communion Served

Sunday, April 8 – 8:00 a.m. Early Combine Easter Service with Auburn, Sherman and Trinity Churches of the Nazarene

9:00 a.m. Breakfast together

9:30 a.m. Children’s Sunday School will be meeting

10:30 a.m. Resurrection Celebration Worship Gathering

Sunday, April 15, Rev. Corey Jones, pastor of Crossroad Tabernacle Church of the Nazarene, in Fort Worth Texas will be preaching in our Worship Gathering.

Ignite Weekend! Is coming. April 27-29 mark it on your calendars now!

April 27, Friday- 7:00 p.m. James Wang sharing his testimony

April 28, Saturday – 8:30 Breakfast together

9:00 Service Projects

6:00 p.m. Overcoming the Ashes at Centrum Café

April 29, Sunday 10:30 Worship Gathering

6:00 p.m. “Courageous” (the movie will be shown)

Blood Drive – Wednesday, April 11th, will be our next Blood Drive from 3:00-7:00 p.m. See Pat Fowler for an appointment or just drop in.

Men’s Fellowship Hour –All men are invited to come to join Men’s Fellowship Hour at 6:30 p.m. Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and acts of service is the agenda. Meets in Room #105. Invite your friends to join with you.

Wednesday Night Ministries: Caravan, MERGE, Velocity and the Prayer Gathering at 6:30 p.m. Dinner from 5:00-6:00 p.m. This week’s menu is: Baked Ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, and dessert

Children’s Easter Egg Hunt begins at 6:30 p.m. Bring a basket for the eggs you find.

Are you in need of special prayer? Is there someone you know who needs prayer? Our Prayer Gatherings on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. is meant to be a time when we can expectantly bring those needs to God, why not join with others and see how God can transform that very situation you’ve been praying about.

Lee School Supply List – for this school year is: pencils, wide-lines paper, markers, crayons, glue sticks (no bottles), and pocket folders. There are boxes in the foyer for your generous donations for our school partner.

Cans for Kidz – The Children’s Ministry is still collecting aluminum cans to help update their ministry area. There are rubber containers at either end of the building for your donations. Thanks you for your continual support of Children’s Ministries.

This coming Sunday, April 8th our wonderful nursery volunteers are Bonnie Patterson with the infants, and Mindy Palmer with toddlers, and Kaleb Buchanan is the floater. This Wednesday, April 4th, is our Easter Egg Hunt.

Our “Happy Meals Team” is still looking for a few good people. On the second Sunday afternoon of each month, people gather in the church kitchen to help prepare and deliver a meal to the Ronald McDonald House and Helping Hands Shelter. There is a need for more people to join them, whether it’s helping in the kitchen, supplying ingredients, or donating money to buy groceries for the meals. These community ministries have come to depend on a meal once a month to help out families who have a real need. Contact Pastor Fred or Jim and Janet Gille, or Dave Buchanan if you would like to help serve our world through this important ministry.

CHILDREN MINISTRIES

Easter Egg Hunt, this Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.

District Quiz in Roxanna, April 14th; Quiz Wrap Up Party, April 15th

There are several openings in our Children’s Ministry for those who love children and want to help tell the story of who God is and all He has done, and then have a great impact on the next generation. On Wednesday evenings for one hour 6:3-7:30 p.m. there are ministry opportunities – if you’d like to help out contact Dawn McLain at 217-381-8801, or see her at church, usually in the Kidz Zone.

TEEN MINISTRY

No Momentum until April 13th!

Parent Meeting for Mystery Trip & Camp: April 25 Come either at 5:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.

Up Coming Dates:

April 4 – Wednesday – Kids Easter Egg Hunt

April 6 – Good Friday Service

April 8 – Easter Services

April 14 – Ladies Quarterly Craft Connection

April 14 – Ladies Day at ONU

April 15 Rev. Corey Jones preaching in our Worship Gathering

April 27-29 “Ignite Weekend!”

June 4-7 – Teen Mystery Trip

June 15 – Neighborhood Connection and 5K

June 25-29 – Teen Camp at Table Rock Camp

July 6-12 – District Assembly and Campmeeting

July 15-19 – Vacation Bible School

PRAYER REQUESTS……….

Those listed in Sunday’s bulletin and:

Fran Herwehe is at St. John’s Hospital

Julie Maltas’ mom – colon cancer

Darin Burdinsky’s dad – lung cancer

Pat Sherf (Mindy Palmer’s dad)

Sylvia Palmer (Brian Palmers’ mom) – cancer

Jim Bolt’s dad- cancer

Barb Kinman

Sheila Leggett

Sharon Hiatt

Dorcas Chandra

Wally Groesch