First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Florence, AlaBAma

April 23, 2024

Sunday, April 28, 2024

Scripture:Luke 2:41-51

Jesus:The Teenage Years

MAY OUTREACH

ARC of the Shoals

Let's reach out to Arc of the Shoals. The Arc is a non-profit organization that provides a safe adult day care facility for developmentally impaired individuals. It provides a great environment for those attending while giving their caring families a respite. They also provide 24/7 group homes for those without families or those who cannot be taken care of by their families. There is no fee for the families of those attending The Arc. While there is partial governmental  support for this outreach, they are on a shoestring budget. We are asking you to search your heart and help with their mission

Graduates

If you have a child or grandchild graduating, or if you are graduating, we want to know. We will be honoring all our graduates on May 19. We do not want to leave ANYONE out!!!

Please email or text me the following:

Graduate name,

High school, College tech school, from which they are graduating.

If going to college, what school and Major, if known.

If graduating from College, what’s next?

A Senior photo or current photo!!

REMINDERS:

April 25: All Saints Ministry

April 28: Board Meeting

MAY

Outreach: ARC of the Shoals

May 12: Mother’s Day

May 14: Law Enforcement Luncheon

May 19: Pentecost

May 19: Graduate recognition

May 27: Memorial Day

Florence High School Show Choir Presents:

 Dance the Night Away

Our own Morgan Johnson is a part of this production!! Morgan was asked: How has being part of Connection Show Choir affected your life? “ “It makes me very happy. Meeting new people that are kind and share the same interests as me, always brings me joy. I love my chorus family.”

Congratulations

Congratulations to Caroline and Igor Dyky on the birth of their little girl! She looks just like big Sister Addison! Grandparents are Maryjane & George Hean, great grandmother is Kay Stegall.

Annalise Rae Dyky

Born April 17th, 2024 at 1:56 pm

7 lbs. 12 oz 19 1/2 inches long

Change in Date

We are postponing the church picnic that was scheduled for May. Once we have another date, we will have a notice in the newsletter and sign-up sheets on the bulletin board. Thank you for your understanding.

M. H. Harper Library

 Thomas Harrison

Amy-Jill Levine, University Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies and Mary Jane Werthan Professor of Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School, has dedicated herself to the cause of eliminating anti-Semitic, misogynistic, and homophobic theologies. Levine's career has focused on helping Christians and Jews realize the "Jewishness" of Jesus and on deepening their comprehension of Jesus toward greater interfaith dialogue. In The Misunderstood Jew: The Church and the Scandal of the Jewish Jesus, Levine shows how liberal Christians tend to misunderstand Judaism and the New Testament. Viewing Jesus outside of his Jewish context has promoted a hatred of Jews. The intent of Levine's work is to promote honest dialogue between Christians and Jews toward a greater understanding of Jesus and a greater respect for each other's beliefs. "In the first several chapters, Levine treads familiar ground, discussing Jesus within the context of Judaism and examining how Christianity evolved from a Jewish sect to a gentile church. This information can be found in other, more clearly written sources, but what Levine does very well is discuss Jewish-Christian relations throughout the millennia, even as she provides a context for discussion. Though Levine clearly shows how Judaism has become a scapegoat of Christianity and offers many examples of Judaism's tenets taken out of context by church writers, she is not writing to stir up trouble. What she wants readers to understand is that lifting Jesus from Judaism is not helpful to either group and that there are plenty of ways to focus on similarities. As Levine concludes, 'As different as they are, church and synagogue have... the same destination, whether called... the kingdom of heaven or the messianic age.' " Ilene Cooper, American Library Association. 

LAW ENFORCEMENT LUNCHEON

MAY 14, 2024

Volunteer Servers: Volunteers are needed from 10:00 - 2:00.

(Sign-up sheets on bulletin board)

CAKES for our LAW ENFORCEMENT LUNCHEON

Our Law enforcement and their support staff always compliment the bakers of our church on their wonderful cakes! We are asking for 5 cakes, 9x13. Please sign-up (sheet on bulletin board) if you can donate a cake. Our cakes need to be at our church by 10:15 on May 14, 2024. With allergies, please no nuts or peanut butter. As Always, if you would like to donate to help with the cost of food, you may put a check in the offering plate and mark for: police lunch.

Prayer Requests

New Prayer Requests:

Neal & Carolyn Davis, cousins of Paula Babcock. Neal is in the hospital and is being put on hospice, Carolyn is currently in Mitchell in Rehab.

Christy Schollenberger and family, friends of Tammy Hendrix and Taylor Henderson. Christy has cancer that has progressed. She is currently in Vanderbilt and not doing well.

Continued Prayers: Liz Moore, Kay Stegall, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Mary Beechum,

Lili Holland, Barbara Sharp, Fred McClusky, Mark Miller, Jean Harrison, Paul Holloway, Dr. Ricky Irons, Alex Nelson, James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Patricia & Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Brian Davis, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

April17, 2024

Note From Pastor Matt

Dear church family,

I wanted to tell you how much I have enjoyed being with you. I have been able to have lunch, dinner, strawberry milkshakes, and so much more with many of you when I come in on the weekends. Remember there is a sign-up sheet in the hallway if you would like to have dinner with me when I get there on Saturday. I don’t want any of you to go out of your way and make a dinner at home. So, I am happy to meet you somewhere and pay for it.

          The main reason I started looking for a church is that I wanted a place that I could call home and Christian people I could call family. I truly believe that I have found that. You all have been so good to me, and I am very thankful for it. I hope to continue growing closer to you so that you can trust me and vice versa.

          I am aware that some people (I don’t know who or how many) don’t like where the doxology is in the order of worship. I placed it there very intentionally. That has been the very ancient place in worship where the doxology would go. It is how we express our gratitude for all the gifts that God has given to us and that we give back in the offering. I look over the order of worship and make sure  I think it works and flows well. If you have any questions about it, please contact me. I am very easy to reach.

          I told the search committee that I had a wedding long scheduled for this coming weekend. The wedding reception isn’t until 5:30 in Pevely, MO. It would be very tough to get to Alabama for Sunday. So, I am very sorry that I won’t be with you Sunday, but you’ll be in the very capable hands of Sir Larry Bates.

          Last week. I preached about the “Good Samaritan.” I told you some of the divisions that the Samaritans and Jews had. They were very similar in their religious beliefs and practices. In that scripture, the Samaritan is the one person of everyone to stop and help the beaten man. I was reading more about the Samaritans. They are still a race of people that exists. According to census data, only about 900 Samaritans remain. That means it is up to you and me to show Christian love to people all over the world.

Have a great week.

Sincerely, Pastor Matt

April 17, 2024

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Larry Bates is filling in for Pastor Matt

“Jesus and the Wooly Bullies”

Scripture: John 10:11-18

Graduates

If you have a child or grandchild graduating, or if you are graduating, we want to know. We will be honoring all our graduates on May 19. We do not want to leave ANYONE out!!!

Please email or text me the following:

Graduate name,

High school, College tech school, from which they are graduating.

If going to college, what school and Major, if known.

If graduating from College, what’s next?

A Senior photo or current photo!!

Graduates I have on my list:

1.       Abbey Sanford

2.      Sam Storie

3.      Gracie Ozbirn – have photo & info

4.      Emme Sanders – have photo & info

5.      Annie Champagne

6.      Ella Coussons

7.      Ann Lilly McDaniel – college graduate

😊  Thank you for your help

APRIL OUTREACH

HELP CENTER

Let's reach out to the Help Center for our April Outreach. The Help Center fills boxes of food three days a week to serve the homeless and those that need a helping hand. Each family or individual can receive one box of food per month. They have asked us for monetary donations to help cover the costs of the food they provide. Please prayerfully consider this much needed outreach to our community.

REMINDERS:

APRIL    Outreach: Help Center

April 25: All Saints Ministry will use either

inside or outside area for lunch hour.

April 28: Board Meeting

MAY – Outreach: ARC of The Shoals

May 12: Mother’s Day

May 19: Pentecost

May 19: Graduate recognition

Prayer Requests

Sympathy:

Preston Hillis, brother of Mike, passed away on April 16.

New Prayer Request:

Mary Beechum, sister of Don McCamy has cancer.

Skip Hodges has had covid.

Lili Holland, Claire McCamy’s sister-in-law is having medical problems.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter is in NAMC with Pneumonia.

Fred McClusky, father of Marsha Carter has been in rehabilitation at JW Somner.

Liz Moore is recovering from surgery and doing well.

Mark Miller, son of Myra & John Finch remains in ICU. He now has pneumonia and strep and on a respirator.

Jean Harrison, stepmother of Thomas Harrison is in Hospice care

Continued Prayers: Kay Stegall, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Ann Marie Carney, Forrest Davis, Paul Holloway, Bayleigh Phillips, Dr. Ricky Irons, Alex Nelson, James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Patricia & Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Brian Davis, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

Sunday, April 14, 2024

Scriptures: Luke 10:25-37

Pastor Matthew Ricks

APRIL OUTREACH

HELP CENTER

Let's reach out to the Help Center for our April Outreach. The Help Center fills boxes of food three days a week to serve the homeless and those that need a helping hand. Each family or individual can receive one box of food per month. They have asked us for monetary donations to help cover the costs of the food they provide. Please prayerfully consider this much needed outreach to our community.

Ladies Luncheon

Our next Ladies Luncheon will be on Tuesday, April 16 at 11:15. We will eat at Ichiban Hibachi Grill located in the TJ Maxx shopping center. Please let Lynne Davis or Judy Goode know if you will be attending so that a correct count may be given for seating.

Address: 173 South Cox Creek Parkway, Florence

April 14- All Church Birthday Party!!

Come celebrate all of our birthdays together in one place. Sit with friends who have birthdays the same month as you. Light lunch and dessert will be served!! This was so much fun last year! Hope to see you there!

Dare to Care

Dare to Care will meet on April 14, following the All-Church Birthday Party.

Soup Kitchen, March 30, 2024

Graduates

If you have a child or grandchild graduating, or if you are graduating, we want to know. We will be honoring all our graduates in May and do not want to leave ANYONE out!!!

Please email me the following: Graduate name, High school, College tech school, etc. from which they are graduating. If going to college, what school and Major, if known, and what’s next……AND a photo!!

Please do not forget to send me even the “obvious” people I SHOULD know! Sometimes we all forget 😊

Thank you for your help.

NENON Leadout 2024

Coby Futrell - Junior, Florence High School - Ella Coussons & Annie Champagne - Seniors, Florence High School.

REMINDERS:

April 14: All Church birthday Party after worship.

April 14: Dare to Care will meet following the Church Birthday Party.

April 16: Ladies Luncheon

April 16: Fellowship hall reserved

April 28: Board Meeting

April 11, 18, 25: All Saints Ministry use fellowship hall.

M. H. Harper Library - Thomas Harrison

The Andy and Sandy series of five books, from Caldecott and Newbery Honoree Tomie dePaola and Emmy Award-winning writer for the Muppets, Jim Lewis, is a set of easy-to-read picture books about friendship. These books are perfect for little ones just learning to read on their own. Andy is introduced in the first book, Andy: That’s My Name. Being proud of his wagon full of letters, young Andy is very upset when the bigger kids take them from him to use for themselves. And when they then take the letters that spell Andy's name, he simply cannot bear it, so he takes a strong stand against them. This introduction to Andy is followed by When Andy Met Sandy. Andy is small, while Sandy is tall. Andy is quiet, while Sandy is LOUD. But when these two seemingly opposite children meet at the playground one day, a beautiful friendship is born! This series by the late Christian-author Tomie dePaola is completed by these three titles: Andy & Sandy’s Anything Adventure; Andy & Sandy and the First Snow; and Andy & Sandy and the Big Talent Show.

Prayer Requests

Prayer Update: 

Liz Moore had surgery this week in Huntsville.

Mark Miller, son of Myra & John Finch had emergency surgery on April 7. Mark lives in St. Louis Mo. He has been in ICU and on a ventilator.

Jean Harrison, stepmother of Thomas Harrison is on Hospice care.

Ann Marie Carney, friend of The Henderson and Hendrix families. had a kidney transplant on April 3 and is now home recovering. Forrest Davis, who donated his Kidney for Anne Marie is home recovering.

Blakley, granddaughter of Cameron & Diane Douglas has her tonsils removed.

Patricia Chandler has moved to Spain rehabilitation in Georgia and is doing well.

Continued Prayers: Kay Stegall, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Paul Holloway, Bayleigh Phillips, Dr. Ricky Irons, Alex Nelson, James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

April 4, 2024

Note from Pastor Matt

Well, first, I will not be there this coming Sunday. I am very sorry and will miss seeing each of you. I have a continuing education class that I must do this weekend. I thought I would tell you a little about it and how it might affect you.

A few years ago, I started the Doctor of Ministry program at Lexington Theological Seminary. I really wanted to focus my four years working with Amish spirituality, what mainline Protestants can learn from it, and developing a program to bring Amish spirituality to everyone else. Heck, I could barely find any Amish resources in the school’s library database. Finding primary resources was a nightmare! Even, my advisor and one teacher highly recommended that I do something else because they thought most people would not find it interesting or useful. I was disappointed with my experience there and the failure to undergird my passion for Christian spirituality.

So, I made the decision to become a Spiritual Director. It requires a two-year program of study, practice, and supervision. I don’t get a recognized degree or fancy title like “Dr.” out of it, but I don’t care. I get to learn more about what can help us grow closer to God and I get to actually put that into practice rather than writing a really long document no one other than a doctoral review board would read.

You may be wondering what spiritual direction is. It sounds simple enough. It sounds like being directed spiritually. That is such a poor definition of what it is and what it does. I’ll tell you what Spiritual Direction is not. It is not counseling or therapy. It’s not non-Christian Voodoo. It’s not even Pastoral Care. Spiritual Direction however does share some things in common with all those things (except the Voodoo that is).

So, “What is Spiritual Direction then?” Good question. I’m still trying to come up with a really good answer … especially one that is not fifteen minutes long. Actually, at our class this weekend we are going to have to come up with our “elevator pitch” for Spiritual Direction.

It is an ancient part of Christianity, going all the way back to when the church was being formed largely outside of Jerusalem. It has changed some over the years in the Catholic church. There are some names associated with Spiritual Direction that you may recognize, such as St. Ignatius of Loyola. Since his day, Spiritual Direction went by the wayside especially with the Reformation.

For me, Spiritual Direction is an intentional relationship between two people in which the Director uses various methods to helps the Directee to grow closer to God and discern God’s will in their lives. That is a huge oversimplification, but it’s a start. How about I tell you what a normal meeting between the Director and Directee looks like (typically they will meet once a month or every other week). First, to calm our minds, I invite the Directee to take as much silence as he or she would like and then say, “ok.” This can be time to just breathe or pray. Then, I will pray for our time together. Then I’ll simply say, “What do you bring with you?” In response, you’re free to talk about anything faith related or otherwise. The odd thing you may notice is that I don’t say much. I don’t tell you my thoughts on what you’re saying (although I may really want too sometimes!!). What you will see is that I listen deeply to you. I’m looking in everything you say for where God is and where God is leading us. As my teacher says, I’m looking for the shimmer. When you have finished talking, I won’t give you opinions, directions, or anything else. Instead, I will simply ask a carefully crafted question. You will answer it and then I will ask another carefully crafted question. The cycle repeats again and again as we seek God through this process. At the end of our session (usually about 50 minutes), I’ll bring us to a point of wrapping up. Then, I will take the remaining time we have to teach you a new spiritual discipline or habit. Or we might redo one of your favorites from the past.

In my business, people must pay for this. You all get it for FREE! If you have any questions or interest in doing this, please let me know. We can definitely do it over Zoom.

~Pastor Matt April 3, 2024

Sunday, April 7, 2024 - Special Music Service

Scriptures: John 20:30-31, Acts 1:1-5, Acts 1:6-11

April 14- All Church Birthday Party!!

This Sunday there will be someone in the entryway for you to sign up to attend the All-Church Birthday Party. There is also a place for those who would like to decorate a table and for those who would like to be the dessert provider for a table. This was so much fun last year. Please be sure to sign-up to attend!!

Dinner with Pastor Matt

Want to get to know Pastor Matt? Learn a little more about him and his family? Let him get to know you and learn about your family?

Let’s have dinner with him!!! Pastor Matt comes into Florence on Saturday and would love to have dinner with you around 4:30-5:00 on one of those Saturdays. If you would like to grab a bite and spend some time introducing yourself and telling him a little about your favorite areas of Florence so he gets to know the area, set a time to go eat! A sign-up Sheet is on the bulletin board. Let’s have dinner with Pastor Matt!!

Graduates

If you have a child or grandchild graduating, or if you are graduating, we want to know. We will be honoring all our graduates in May and do not want to leave ANYONE out!!!

Please email me the following: Graduate name, High school, College tech school, etc. from which they are graduating. If going to college, what school and Major, if known, and what’s next……AND a photo!!

Please do not forget to send me even the “obvious” people I SHOULD know! Sometimes we all forget 😊

Thank you for your help

REMINDERS:

April 8-11: Set up for All Church birthday.

April 14: All Church birthday Party  

after worship. Dare to Care will meet following the Church Birthday Party.

April 16: Ladies Luncheon

April 16: Fellowship hall reserved

April 28: Board Meeting

April 4, 11, 18, 25: All Saints Ministry

Ladies Luncheon

Our next Ladies Luncheon will be on Tuesday, April 16 at 11:15. We will eat at Ichiban Hibachi Grill located in the TJ Maxx shopping center. Please let Lynne Davis or Judy Goode know if you will be attending so that a correct count may be given for seating.

Address: 173 South Cox Creek Parkway, Florence

APRIL OUTREACH - HELP CENTER

Let's reach out to the Help Center for our April Outreach. The Help Center fills boxes of food three days a week to serve the homeless and those that need a helping hand. Each family or individual can receive one box of food per month. They have asked us for monetary donations to help cover the costs of the food they provide. Please prayerfully consider this much needed outreach to our community.

Dare to Care

Dare to Care will meet on April 14, following the All-Church Birthday Party.

Prayer Requests

Prayer Update: 

Patricia Chandler has moved to Spain rehabilitation in Georgia.

New Prayer Requests:

Ann Marie Carney, friend of The Henderson and Hendrix families. had a kidney transplant on Wednesday.

Forrest Davis, who donated his Kidney for Anne Marie.

Continued Prayers: Kay Stegall, Lee Todd, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Paul Holloway, 

Bayleigh Phillips, Dr. Ricky Irons, Alex Nelson, James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

Sunday, March 24, 2024

“Before Easter: Beating.”

John 19:1-16

Pastor Matthew Ricks

REMINDERS:

MARCH

Outreach: Safeplace

March 28: Maundy Thursday Service 7 p.m.

March 30: Easter Egg Hunt: 2-4 pm. Please invite your family and friends. **We need candy to fill the Easter eggs. Please no hard candy.

March 30: Soup Kitchen Sign-up sheet on the bulletin board.

March 31: Easter Sunday–Biscuits will be served during the Sunday School Hour.

APRIL

Outreach: Help Center

April 1: Office closed in observance of Easter

April 8-11: Set up tables for All Church birthday.

April 14: All Church birthday Party following worship.

April 16: Fellowship hall reserved-Tonitia Butler

April 28: Board Meeting

April 4, 11, 18, 25: All Saints Ministry will use either inside or outside area for lunch hour.

March 31 - EASTER!

We will provide biscuits for breakfast in the fellowship hall during the Sunday school hour on Easter morning. Remember to come by and have a biscuit before our Easter Service. (There will be sausage biscuits, bacon biscuits and plain biscuits and jelly.)

March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt

for our little ones, grands, and community friends.

2-4 pm at FCC, Florence.

We need your help with Easter Candy for the Egg Hunt the church is having on March 30. Please drop off bags of individually wrapped candy in the fellowship hall by March 28. Please NO HARD Candy. Thank you!!

MARCH OUTREACH

SAFEPLACE

Let us reach out to Safe Place and help domestic violence victims and their children. Domestic violence victims turn to Safe Place when they know they must leave an unpleasant situation.

Safeplace is asking for:

snack foods, paper towels

toilet tissue, Kleenex

dish washing detergent

disinfectant wipes, shampoo

conditioner, deodorant

ladies' hygiene products

wipes, razors

light bulbs, bug spray

sheets (twin or full)

small tote bags

journals

diapers (sizes 4,5,6)

and pull-ups

As always, you may make a monetary donation and place in the offering plate. Please mark “for” Safeplace.

Prayer Requests

Paul Holloway, friend of Ruth & Donnie Haynes is dealing with cancer and other health issues.

Continued Prayers:

Kay Stegall, Lee Todd, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Dr. Ricky Irons, Alex Nelson, Peggy & David Goodlet, Patricia Chandler, James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis,  Jimmy Harlan, Regina Kennamore, Jeanette Wilkinson, Jerry Don Chandler, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

MARCH OUTREACH

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Before Easter: Beating.”

John 19:1-16

Pastor Matthew Ricks

SAFEPLACE

Let us reach out to Safe Place and help domestic violence victims and their children. Domestic violence victims turn to Safe Place when they know they must leave an unpleasant situation.

Safeplace is asking for:

snack foods, paper towels

toilet tissue, Kleenex

dish washing detergent

disinfectant wipes, shampoo

conditioner, deodorant

ladies' hygiene products

wipes, razors

light bulbs, bug spray

sheets (twin or full)

small tote bags

journals

diapers (sizes 4,5,6)

pull-ups

As always, you may make a monetary donation and place in the offering plate. Please mark “for” Safeplace

Easter Flowers

This year for Easter, instead of Calla Lillys, we will have Hydrangeas. The cost will be $32 each, orders will need to be in the church office by March 17 to place our order with the Florist. Please be sure to put Hydrangeas on your check when paying.

**These will be beautiful, planted in your yard following Easter! Order forms are beside the bulletins, outside the pastor’s office.

Ladies Luncheon

 Tuesday March 19 - 11:15 at Romas Italian restaurant in Sheffield. They are next to Stanfield’s (in the old Outback building). Please let Lynne Davis know if you will be attending so seating may be reserved.

REMINDERS:

March Outreach: Safeplace

3-17-24: All Church & All Saints Pot-Luck Luncheon.

3-17-24: Hydrangea Orders due in church office

3-19-24: Ladies luncheon, -11:15 @ Romas Italian restaurant, Sheffield

                 (next to Stanfield’s in old Outback building)

3-24-24: Palm Sunday

3-28-24: Maundy Thursday service – 7 p.m.

3-29-24: Good Friday

3-30-24: Easter Egg Hunt: 2-4 pm.

3-30-24: Soup Kitchen

3-31-24: Easter Sunday 

APRIL

4-1-24: Office closed in observance of Easter Holiday.

4-14-24: All Church Birthday Party

4-16-24: Fellowship Hall Reserved – Tonitia Butler

4-28-24: Board Meeting

REMINDER: POTLUCK LUNCH

Sunday, March 17 - All Saints Camus Group will be joining FCC for church service and a Church wide potluck lunch.

Remember to bring the dish you signed up for. Let’s welcome these UNA students to our church.

March 31 - EASTER!

We will provide biscuits for breakfast in the fellowship hall during the Sunday school hour on Easter morning. Remember to come by and have a biscuit before our Easter Service.

(There will be sausage biscuits, bacon biscuits and plain biscuits and jelly.)

March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt

for our little ones,

grands, and community friends.

2-4 pm at FCC

Florence.

We need your help with Easter Candy for the Egg Hunt the church is having on March 30. Please drop off bags of individually wrapped candy in the fellowship hall by March 28. Please NO HARD Candy. Thank you!!

April 14- All Church Birthday Party!!

A sign-up sheet will be located on the bulletin board to decorate a table.

This was so much fun last year. Be sure to come!!

Florence Camerata

Florence Camerata has a concert on Tuesday, March 19th at 7:00 p.m.

Location:

First Presbyterian Church, Florence

Prayer Requests

New Prayer Request:

Trace Hendrix, husband of Tammy, had surgery on March 12.  

Patricia Chandler is in NAMC following a stroke and heart attack.

Peggy & David Goodlet, friends of George Pinkston. David is dealing with dementia.

Alex Nelson, friend of Robert & Barbara Crittenden, is in treatment at Vanderbilt for cancer

Dr. Ricky Irons, friend of Robert & Barbara Crittenden, is in treatment at UAB.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Continued Prayers: Kay Stegall, Garry Watson, Lee Todd, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: James & Glenda Foster, Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Jeanette Wilkinson, Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

March 6, 2024

Sunday, March 10, 2024

“Before Easter: Trial”

John 18:28-40

Pastor Matthew Ricks

MARCH OUTREACH

SAFEPLACE

Let us reach out to Safe Place and help domestic violence victims and their children. Domestic violence victims turn to Safe Place when they know they must leave an unpleasant situation.

Safeplace is asking for:

snack foods, paper towels

toilet tissue, Kleenex

dish washing detergent

disinfectant wipes, shampoo

conditioner, deodorant

ladies' hygiene products

wipes, razors

light bulbs, bug spray

sheets (twin or full)

small tote bags

journals

diapers (sizes 4,5,6)

pull-ups

As always, you may make a monetary donation and place in the offering plate. Please mark “for” Safeplace

Charlie & Marilyn Highfield Update

Jennifer Highfield updated her Facebook page regarding Charlie and Marilyn, and I thought I would share for those of you who have wondered how they are.

Charlie is now settled at Morning Pointe of Danville Assisted Living. He is doing well and loves the company and activities. Marilyn is going to be moving in with Jennifer sometime in the next couple of months. Jennifer says they will be roomies like Dorothy & Sophia on the Golden Girls!!

Daylight Savings Time

Reminder: Spring Forward ONE hour! Adjust your clocks before you go to bed on Saturday night, March 9.

Ladies Luncheon

 Tuesday March 19 - 11:15 at Romas Italian restaurant in Sheffield. They are next to Stanfield’s (in the old Outback building). Please let Lynne Davis know if you will be attending so seating may be reserved.

Easter Flowers

This year for Easter, instead of Calla Lillys, we will have Hydrangeas. The cost will be $32 each, orders will need to be in the church office by March 17 to place our order with the Florist. Please be sure to put Hydrangeas on your check when paying.

**These will be beautiful, planted in your yard following Easter!

Order forms are beside the bulletins,

outside the pastor’s office.

Board Meeting

There will be a called Board meeting this Sunday, March 10, in the Library, following worship.

REMINDERS:

March Outreach: Safeplace

3-9-24: Daylight Savings time: Spring Forward one hour before bed!

3-10-24 Called Board Meeting in Library, following worship.

3-17-24: All Church & All Saints Pot-Luck Luncheon.

3-17-24: Hydrangea Orders due in church office

3-19-24: Ladies luncheon, -11:15 @ Romas Italian restaurant, Sheffield

                 (next to Stanfield’s in old Outback building)

3-24-24: Palm Sunday

3-28-24: Maundy Thursday service – 7 p.m.

3-29-24: Good Friday

3-30-24: Easter Egg Hunt: 2-4 pm.

3-30-24: Soup Kitchen

3-31-24: Easter Sunday 

APRIL

4-1-24: Office closed in observance of Easter Holiday.

4-14-24: All Church Birthday Party

4-16-24: Fellowship Hall Reserved – Tonitia Butler

4-28-24: Board Meeting

THANK YOU

February 29, 2024

Dear Friends,

The Noles’ family wishes to express our gratitude for all the kindness and prayers you have offered during our Mother’s recent illness and passing. The flowers were beautiful and your presence most appreciated.

Thank you, The Noles

THANK YOU

Dear First Christian Church,

Safeplace would like to thank you so much for your continuing support and help of the families served. Your donations are greatly appreciated and are essential in helping meet current needs.

While needs are great and growing Safeplace provides the services that empower survivors and their children to live in peace. Without you none of this would be possible. Thank You

Sincerely, Safeplace

Thank You

Thank you to everyone who has been saving medicine bottles for the local clinic. They have been delivered and are very appreciative of all we are doing to help. The collection bin remains in the fellowship hall.

Prayer Requests

New Prayer Request:

Family of June Warren, friend of Thomas Harrison, who passed away Sunday.

Trace Hendrix, husband of Tammy, will have knee replacement surgery on March 12.

~~~~~~~~~~

Continued Prayers: Kay Stegall, Garry Watson, Lee Todd, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Lucia Hill, Tia Davis, Regina Kennamore, Jeanette Wilkinson, Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

February 28, 2024

Pastor Matt’s Notes:

As I understand, some of your previous pastors have written weekly notes to you here. There will be times when I do the same and there will be some weeks when I encourage one of the committee chairs or a leader from the church to write something. Sometimes, this will be a place of encouragement. At other times it will be a place to educate you about your faith and how it intersects with the world. I think it would be wonderful to occasionally shine the spotlight on one of our members and get to know them. At other times, this will be a place to maybe pull out a scripture that has been meaningful to me and share it with you. There will be weeks when I will share a little about myself or tell you something that I think is important for our church. In other words, there are all kinds of things that we can do with this space.

This week, I want to tell you some things about myself and some things that are important to us being the church that Christ intended it to be. I’m sure that I will be sharing more in the future as we get to know one another. I like to use bullet points as that helps us move clearly from one thing to the next. So, here we go.

·         I’ll get this out there straight away. I don’t wear suits unless I’m going to a wedding or funeral. Even then sometimes, I will be wearing a robe and stole. I have two suits: a black one and a blue one that just barely fit. I’m a simple person and a suit negates that for me.

·         Once I do get to living in Florence full-time, I will usually work from home or a coffee shop on Monday when I write my sermon and do all my other preparations for the rest of the week and Sunday. Tuesdays and Thursdays are my days to take care of administrative tasks, visit with people, and study. Those two days are the days when I will spend some time in the office. However, I want to emphasize that Jesus didn’t have an office. His office was out with the people of the world … I try to follow that model as well. Friday, I go over my sermon many times and fix things that aren’t working. Then, I record it for a podcast I have. I am off on Wednesday and part of Saturday. Generally, I turn the ringer off on my phone for a few hours in the evening. But I do check it for anything urgent.

·         If you have any questions or concerns about any aspect of how I do my job, please come and talk to me. Going to someone or talking about it with others in the parking lot won’t do us any good. Even worse, it will make us an unhealthy church. We should kindly just go talk to one another. Triangulating is one of the worst things that can happen to a church. It creates distrust, it fosters miscommunication and misunderstanding, it puts up barriers between people who are supposed to be brothers and sisters in Christ, and it becomes wildly tempting to gossip and verbally tear people down. As I have told one of the leaders I don’t listen to anonymous complaints or complains from “people.” If I am told that “people” don’t like something I can’t go talk to them to better understand what’s going on because I have no idea who they are. Even worse I don’t know if this is two people or seventy-six. That greatly affects how things are handled. When Judas betrayed Jesus, Jesus did not go around talking about it to everyone else. He went straight to Judas and received the holy kiss at his arrest. That is a completely different way of dealing with personal differences!

·         As I have told you, I really want to get to know all of you. So, feel free to have lunch or whatever with me. As my old friend Joe used to say, “I eat lunch every day.” That was his way of saying I was welcome with him anytime. The same absolutely goes for you.

·         I’ll give you one random fact that you’ll learn about me sooner or later: I must have my fingernails trimmed and polished every Friday or I am convinced the sermon isn’t going to go well. I am so picky about my fingernail files that the one I have was made in Germany. To top that, I bought an extra one in case they ever stopped selling them. We are all a little weird. Even me.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

In the novel The Apothecary's Daughter by Julie Klassen, Lilly Haswell is the brilliant daughter of the local apothecary. She has an exceptional memory that she applies when working

for her father. In spite of her success as his assistant, since women cannot practice as an apothecary in 19th-century England, Lilly yearns for more adventure and experience than

her life in their small village can supply. Lilly also longs to know the truth behind her mother's disappearance following the birth of Lilly's 

disabled brother, an event which villagers

whisper about, but her father refuses to discuss. The opportunity for a different life comes when her aunt and uncle in London offer to educate her as a lady. Having been exposed to fashionable society and romance, as well as gaining some clues about her mother, Lilly is torn when she is summoned back to her ailing father's bedside. In order to save the family legacy, Lilly will have to make it appear as if her father is still making all the diagnoses and decisions. She finds that the eyes of a competing

apothecary, as well as those of a suspicious scholarly physician, are upon her. At the same time, Lilly finds three men vying for her heart, one of whom has followed her from London. “The Apothecary’s Daughter is another stunning read from Julie Klassen." Christian Review of Books.

MARCH OUTREACH

SAFEPLACE

Let's reach out to Safe Place and help domestic violence victims and their children. Domestic violence victims turn to Safe Place when they know they must leave a bad situation.

Safeplace is asking for:

snack foods, paper towels, toilet tissue, Kleenex, dish washing detergent, disinfectant wipes

shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, ladies' hygiene products, wipes, razors, light bulbs

bug spray, sheets (twin or full), small tote bags, journals, diapers (sizes 4,5,6), pull-ups

As always, you may make a monetary donation and place in the offering plate. Please mark “for” Safeplace

Spring Forward into a round of activities for First Christian Church!

• March 17 - All Saints Campus Group will be joining FCC for church service and a Church wide potluck lunch.  Look for signup sheets on what dish to bring!

• March 30 - Easter Egg Hunt for our little ones, grands, and community friends.  2-4 pm at FCC Florence.  More details coming soon!

• March 31 - EASTER!

•  April - All Church Birthday Party!!                                                                                                                                      

•  May – Mother’s Day and celebrating our Graduates 

More details  on all FCC Activities coming soon (We don’t want to overwhelm you)! March blessings from The Activities Committee

Prayer Requests 

Kay Stegall is dealing with a recurring medical problem and will be having some decisions to make in the near future. She asks for your

prayers."

William Ebrom & Family (brother of Jessica Johnson) lost a baby this past week.

Tammy & Trace Hendrix have both had covid.

Taylor, Sam & Wallace Henderson have all had covid.

Regina Kennamore, sister of Chris Thomas, had heart surgery this past week at UAB. She is home recovering.

Shelia May is in long-term care at home. Please keep her and Lane and the family in your prayers.

Tia Davis’s bone marrow transplant went well.

Garry Watson had a spine injection to relieve pain.

Lucia Hill, friend of Gloria Jones, had brain surgery to place a shunt.

Suzanne Morris will be having a back injection for pain.

Aria Todd is having digestion issues. Prayers for Insurance coverage and new medicines that will help.

Aaron Michael is in Florence Rehab.

Continued Prayers: Robert Crittenden, Lee Todd, Grace Noles, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Jeanette Wilkinson, Jerry Don Chandler, Jimmy Harlan, Jeremy Jennings, James Meredith, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Tia Davis, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

February 7, 2024

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Dear Members of First Christian Church,

I wish to express my deep gratitude for the privilege of serving as your interim minister for the past two and a half years (31 months). It has been an honor and a joy to work with such a dedicated and welcoming congregation. I have been blessed by the relationships I have formed with so many of you, and I will cherish those memories always.

During my time here, I have seen the church thrive in new and exciting ways. I have watched as the congregation has come together to support one another in times of need, and I have been inspired by your commitment to serving the community.

As I prepare to leave, I want to assure you that I will do everything in my power to ensure a smooth transition for the church. I will work closely with the leadership to ensure that all necessary information is passed on to my successor and that the church continues to move forward with strength and purpose.

Once again, I want to thank you for the privilege of serving as your interim minister. I will always cherish the memories of our time together, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Cameron Douglas

 Date to Remember

February 11: Reception for Cameron & Diane Douglas, following worship.

February 11: Dare to Care will meet immediately following the reception.

February 13: Ladies Luncheon

@ Ricks BBQ, Cox Creek.

February 14: Ash Wednesday Service – 5:30

February 18: Week of Compassion offering

February 19: Presidents Day: Office Closed

Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers Performing

The Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers, including several of our church members, will be performing for the Florence Music Study Club, this Saturday, February 10th at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church Chapel on Tombigbee Street. The program will include a collection of old and new songs and the historical origins of each piece. The performance will last about an hour and is sponsored by a longtime group of music lovers in our community.

Hope to see you then.

Rose Faye, Kaye, and Terry

Office Hours

February 12-15

Tammy will be on vacation the week of February 12-16.

Cameron will be in the office on February 13 & 14 if you have a need. If you need anything on the other days, please be sure to contact your Elder.

Tammy will be back in the office on Tuesday, February 20.

February Outreach

Sidney’s Safe Foundation

 Let us work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation: outreach You may place it in the offering tray or box on the wall by the pastor’s office.

In memory of Sidney Carson & her fight against depression, addiction & physical abuse. Sidney’s Safe Foundation helps those in need. "Sidney's Safe!" Foundation ensures that children are fed each week in the Shoals area by distributing bags of food to schools, which are then discretely put in backpacks of students each Friday who need meals over the weekend. ​Sidney’s Safe does this and so much more to make an impact in the Shoals community. SSF is run by Sidney’s sister, Sarah Jennifer Carson.

Thank You

Thank you to Leon Nale, Bill Davis, Joe Miller, and Scott Jackson for all your hard work scraping and painting in the sanctuary. We appreciate your service and love to our church and for keeping our Sanctuary beautiful!

I love the colors from the stained-glass windows when the sun shines through early in the mornings!

Prayer Requests 

Robert Crittenden had hernia repair surgery.

Jeanette Wilkinson, friend of Claire McCamy.

Jerry Don Chandler has started chemo.

Jimmy Harlan, father of Tracy Futrell has moved to rehab.

Grace Simpson had a second cataract surgery on February 6.

Jeremy Jennings, son-in-law of Tammy Hendrix had skin graft surgery last week.

Continued Prayers: Lee Todd, Grace Noles, Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: James Meredith, Sara Fulford, Reverend Dan Barton, Barbara Sharp, Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Tia Davis, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

January 30, 2024

Date to Remember

February 11: Reception for Cameron & Diane Douglas, following worship.

February 11: Dare to Care will  meet immediately following reception.

February 13: Ladies Luncheon

@ Ricks BBQ, Florence Blvd.

February 14: Ash Wednesday Service – 5:30

February 18: Week of Compassion offering

February 19: Presidents Day: Office

Thank You 

Dear First Christian Church family,

Thank you all so very much for your kindness and thoughtfulness during the recent passing of my stepmother, Mary McClusky. Your calls, texts, beautiful cards, and visits during the service meant the world to my family, but even more so to Bob and me. You have been our home and rock for a long time, and times like these remind us of the very reason, brothers, and sisters like you.

With the Love of Christ, Marsha & Bob Carter

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

The Man of the Desert is a 1914 novel by Grace Livingston Hill (April 16, 1865 - February 23, 1947), an early 20th-century novelist who wrote under both her real name and a pseudonym, Marcia Macdonald. Hill wrote over one hundred novels and numerous short stories. Her main characters were most often young Christian-women or women who became Christians within the passage of the story, which is true of this novel. Fleeing the unwanted attentions of an aggressive suitor, wealthy and beautiful Hazel Radcliffe becomes hopelessly lost in the Arizona desert. Weak and weary, she falls from her horse and is left unconscious. However, Hazel is soon found by John Brownleigh, a handsome missionary from New Hampshire who now lives in the desert in service to Native Americans. As he carefully nurses Hazel back to health, a strong but unfulfilled attraction begins to grow between them. John, humble and of limited means, knows he is not a sophisticate of Hazel's society world, so he does not speak of his burgeoning love. And because Hazel feels very unworthy of John and his selfless work, she likewise remains silent. Thus, they part, returning to their lives without acknowledging the growing love between them. Back home with her New York City family and friends, Hazel makes a startling decision: she will take on the daunting journey of doing all that she can to change and become deserving of John's love and his service to God. However, can Hazel do so before it is too late? Over a 100 years ago, Hill wrote within this novel's introduction, "It must come as a shock for youth of today's generation to realize that in my Mother’s Day a decent girl would never consider going on a trip without a chaperone... It may be more of a shock to find that there were young people who knew what standards of right and wrong meant... They found satisfaction and contentment from (their) personal experience of the meaning of the Cross of Jesus Christ in their lives."

February Outreach

Sidney’s Safe Foundation

 Let us work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation: outreach You may place it in the offering tray or box on the wall by the pastor’s office.

In memory of Sidney Carson & her fight against depression, addiction & physical abuse. Sidney’s Safe Foundation helps those in need.

"Sidney's Safe!" Foundation ensures that children are fed each week in the Shoals area by distributing bags of food to schools, which are then discretely put in backpacks of students each Friday who need meals over the weekend. ​Sidney’s Safe does this and so much more to make an impact in the Shoals community.

SSF is run by Sidney’s sister, Sarah Jennifer Carson

Reception

 The membership committee wants to provide this update regarding the reception in the fellowship hall for Cameron and Diane Douglas on February 11th immediately following worship.

We have all the food taken care of on the sign-up sheet and wanted to thank all of you for volunteering. Please come and enjoy this time of showing our sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Cameron and Diane for everything they have done for our church during his time here as our interim pastor.

A card or note basket will be available in the foyer for the next two Sundays for those who would like to participate. We will be giving them to Cameron and Diane on the 11th!

 Thanks so much and we look forward to our time together! The Membership and Activities committees.

Prayer Requests 

Christopher Thomas and family on the loss of his aunt, Betty Schaefer.

Lee Todd, husband of Anna Todd has been battling with a wound on his toe.

Grace Noles, mother of Bob Noles, fell and is at Summitt Rehab. She is 106.

Sara, daughter of Sid Fulford had to have surgery on her elbow.

Melissa Tash, daughter-in-law of Faye Tash, fell and broke her knee cap.

Reverend Dan Barton, friend of Cameron Douglas, is not recovering well after an infection in his spine.

Family of Helen Greer, friend of Thomas Harrison, who passed away due to cancer.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, moved to Columbia Cottage 

Jerry Don Chandler has started chemo.

Jimmy Harlan, father of Tracy Futrell has been in the hospital.

James Meredith, son of Carol & Bob Hill is having blood pressure issues.

Grace Simpson had cataract surgery on January 23, she will have the other eye done on February 6.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Charlie & Marilyn Highfield, Scott Miller, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Tia Davis, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

january 25, 2024

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Anyone You Recognize?

Fred Everybody, Thomas Somebody, Peter Anybody, and Joe Nobody were neighbors, but not the type that most would want to know. They were odd people, troublesome, and difficult to understand. The way they lived their lives was a shame. These men all went to the same church, but most would not have wanted them as parishioners. 

Everybody went fishing on Sundays or stayed home and spoke with his friends. Anybody wanted to worship, but he was afraid that Somebody would speak with him. Thus, guess who went to church - that's right, Nobody. 

Actually, Nobody was the only decent one of the lot. Nobody did the parish census; Nobody joined the parish council. One day there was a call in the bulletin for people to apply for a position as a teacher in the religious education program. Everybody thought Anybody would apply; Anybody thought Somebody would apply. So, guess who applied? You are right - Nobody! 

My friends, let's not be an everybody, somebody, or anybody. Rather, let us truly strive to be a nobody. In such a way we empty ourselves so we can be filled with the amazing power of Christ, who died to set us free and, thus, will always be our brother, friend, and Lord.

I Hope to See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, January 28, 2024 ~ Reverend Cameron Douglas

Sermon: “The Catch”

Scripture: Mark 1:14-20

Date to Remember

February 11: Luncheon for Cameron & Diane Douglas, following worship.

February 11: Dare to Care – 2 p.m.

February 13: Ladies Luncheon

@ Ricks BBQ, Florence Blvd.

February 14: Ash Wednesday Service – 5:30

February 18: Week of Compassion offering

February 19: Presidents Day: Office Closed

Luncheon

Goodbyes & Farewells are never easy, so instead, we are having a Keep-in-Touch Luncheon for Dianne & Cameron on February 11.

There will be a sign-up sheet in the foyer for the next two Sundays. Also, at the table for these two Sundays, there will be a basket to collect all the cards & notes you would like to leave for Diane and Cameron.

Hope to see you there. Membership Committee.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

In Julie Klassen's The Sisters of Sea View, Sarah, Emily, Viola, and Georgianna Summers find themselves left to care for their ailing mother subsequent to the untimely death of their father. With their circumstance being that they have no brother as an heir, their father's Gloucestershire estate and wealth are transferred to a relatively-unknown male relative. Fortunately, the ladies are left with Sea View, their seaside vacation home in Sidmouth, England, because it had been purchased with money from their maternal side. Determined to stay together, eldest-sibling Sarah convinces the others to open their new home to guests in order to make ends meet and to provide for their mother. However, instead of the elderly invalids they had expected to receive as guests, they find themselves hosting an assortment of wealthy couples, handsome men - including a widower father, and at least one unusual widower and his unusual parakeet. Shy Viola wears a veil to cover her facial scar, and she begs to seek employment reading to the elderly and infirm rather than being exposed to the house guests, which leads to its own delicate circumstance. Julie Klassen is a fan of Jane Austen and this very-well-written novel reflects her love of Austen's English literature.

January Outreach

Healing Place

The Healing Place is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit agency in Muscle Shoals. The Healing Place provides grief education and support services to children from low to moderate income families.  Both group and individual services are provided in 49 local schools by Healing Place staff. Services are also provided in the office and groups are held in the evening for children and their family members. The primary counties served by The Healing Place are Lauderdale, Colbert, and Franklin counties. All services are free of charge to the children and families served by The Healing Place. The agency relies solely on donations, grants, and fundraising events. Currently, The Healing Place does not receive state or federal funding. Please reach out to help support The Healing Place with a monetary donation. You may drop in the mail to the church with The Healing Place in the “for” section.

Bereavement Committee

Volunteers Needed 

We are starting a new list for Bereavement meals. This committee provides a meal when there is a need within our church family. Would you like to prepare a dish or make a donation towards the meal? If so, please put your name and phone number on the list posted on the bulletin board or contact Judy Goode 256-483-1650. If you are currently on the list, please go ahead and add your name as well, so we will have an up-to-date list. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Prayer Requests

Reverend Dan Barton, friend of Cameron Douglas.

Family of Helen Greer, friend of Thomas Harrison, who passed away due to cancer.

Charlie & Marilyn Highfield: Charlie is now in a residential assisted living in KY.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, will move to Columbia Cottage 

Jerry Don Chandler was diagnosed with cancer and has numerous surgeries and health issues related to his treatment. 

Grace Simpson had cataract surgery on January 23.

James Meredith, son of Carol & Bob Hill is having some health issues.

Jimmy Harlan, father of Tracy Futrell is in NAMC. He has had pneumonia and other issues.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Scott Miller, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Tia Davis, Jerome Glaister, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Florence, AlaBAMA

january 11, 2024

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The Courageous Heart: Embracing a Christian Lifestyle

Courage is a virtue deeply intertwined with the essence of a Christian lifestyle. It's not just the absence of fear, but the audacity to act with faith despite it. Throughout history, countless figures exemplified courage, none more profoundly than Jesus Christ.

In the Gospels, Jesus personifies courage in its purest form. His entire earthly journey is a testament to unwavering bravery rooted in love, compassion, and a resolute commitment to God's will. He fearlessly challenged societal norms, confronted injustice, and fearlessly spoke truth to power, regardless of the personal risk.

Jesus' life was marked by countless instances where He exhibited remarkable courage. He fearlessly faced temptations in the wilderness, demonstrating the strength to resist worldly allure. He confronted religious hypocrisy, overturning tables in the temple to uphold the sanctity of worship. Jesus boldly stood by the marginalized, offering healing and hope to the sick, oppressed, and outcast, despite societal scorn.

However, the pinnacle of Jesus' courage was His sacrifice on the cross. In Gethsemane, He grappled with the weight of the impending crucifixion, pleading with God in prayer. Yet, His unwavering courage stemmed from obedience and love for humanity. He willingly endured immense suffering, epitomizing selflessness, and surrendering to God's plan for redemption.

Courage in a Christian lifestyle involves speaking truth with compassion, even when it's unpopular, extending forgiveness in the face of hurt, and walking in faith when the path is uncertain. It's about being bold in demonstrating God's love through actions, even amid adversity.

When fear tempts to paralyze, Jesus' example stands as a beacon of hope and strength. He assured His disciples, saying, "Take courage; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). This promise echoes through generations, empowering Christians to navigate life's challenges with steadfastness and unwavering trust in God's sovereignty.

See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, January 14, 2024

Sermon: “Close Encounter of Another Kind”

Scripture: John 1: 43-51

Reverend Cameron Douglas

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent is a novel about prejudice that demonstrates how gossip, fear, and misplaced self-righteousness can escalate into massive persecution and horror. Notably, author Kent is a direct descendant of the real-life Martha Carrier, who is central to this historical-fiction novel.  In Salem4, 1752, Sarah Carrier Chapman, who is weak with infirmity, writes a letter to her granddaughter that reveals the secret she has closely guarded for six decades: how she survived the Salem Witch Trials when her mother, Martha Carrier, did not. Martha Carrier's story is one of courageous defiance and ultimate sacrifice for family, which begins herein more than a year before the trials, as the Carrier family arrives in the Andover community, which is already gripped by superstition and fear. Innocent and unfortunate circumstances are misperceived by the community and soon Martha becomes witness to neighbor becoming pitted against neighbor and friend against friend. The Christian community shuns the family, becoming swept into hysteria and judgment based on speculation and prejudice. As circumstances escalate, more than two hundred men, women, and children are ultimately imprisoned. When Martha is arrested, she attempts to protect her children by asking them to commit an act of heresy... to lie about their mother's true beliefs and actions. A "heart-wrenching story of family love and sacrifice" (USA Today). The New York Times review praised the book as a tale in which “tragedy is trumped by an unsinkable faith in human nature.” 

THANK YOU

Thank you so much for your recent donation to meals on wheels! Our seniors appreciate your continued love and compassion. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without donations like yours! 

With Much Gratitude, Meals on Wheels - Community Action of NWAL

************************

THANK YOU

We appreciate the support of First Christian Church in the work that we do. You support helps provide a centralized, collaborative, community effort that provides victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse with necessary services under one roof and ensures the safety of victims and offender accountability.

We appreciate and thank you for your donation to One Place of the Shoals.

Donna Beck, Executive Director

JANUARY

January 14: Board meeting following worship

January 14: Dare to Care - 2 p.m.

January 16: Ladies Luncheon 11:15 @ Ricks BBQ.

Ladies Luncheon

Our next Ladies luncheon will be on Tuesday, January 16 at 11:15.

We will meet at Ricks BBQ on Cox Creek in Florence. Please contact either Lynne Davis or Judy Goode if you will be attending so they will prepare for enough seating.

Bereavement Committee

Volunteers Needed

We are starting a new list for Bereavement meals. This committee provides a meal when there is a need within our church family. Would you like to prepare a dish or make a donation towards the meal? If so, please put your name and phone number on the list posted on the bulletin board or contact Judy Goode 256-483-1650. If you are currently on the list, please go ahead and add your name as well, so we will have an up-to-date list. Your  help is greatly appreciated.

Prayer Requests

Charlie & Marilyn Highfield: Charlie is now in a residential assisted living in KY.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, has moved to Mitchell Hollingsworth rehabilitation.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Scott Miller, (son of Myra & John Finch), Grace Reidel, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Tia Davis, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

Weather calls for the chance of some snow next week. Nothing like we got the last time we had a good amount. Thought you would like to see this photo taken a few years ago, of our beautiful church in the quiet of the night with the snow! I am sorry, I do not remember who took this to give them credit. But, thanks!!

January 3, 2024

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Year One

We have a tendency to fall in love with anything new. I like new technology. I’m not really a geek. I just like new devices and the newness of what they can now do. It is sort of like out with the old and in with the new. For example, I get a new Apple iPhone, iWatch, iPad, Mac computer as often as I can afford it (which is BTW NOT annually). I don’t know why I like it; I just do. 

We all like just about anything new — and that includes a new year. 

I understand that the Japanese have an interesting way of keeping track of the passage of time. The traditional Japanese calendar is based on the reign period of the emperor. Each time a different emperor begins to rule, a new counting of the years begins, and the period acquires a new name. The calendar starts all over again at "Year One."  For example, in this new year 2024, in Japan it is Reiwa 6. It’s interesting the Bible reckons time in a similar way, as in Matthew 2:1 (NIV) “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem.” 

For our Western world time is reckoned by the coming of Jesus Christ who signaled a break with the past — darkness became light, despair became hope, condemnation became grace. As William Barclay puts it, "Even the calendar tells us that with the birth of Jesus Christ history started all over again." So, this is not "year one" or even "year one hundred." Rather it is year two thousand twenty-four of our Lord. 

And yet there is a sense in which because Christ has come into the world, this year is potentially "year one" for each of us. Year one of a new life. Year one of a new beginning. Year one of a new creation. A new year offers a promise of starting all over again. That's a word of hope. 

It’s a new year, See you Sunday,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, January 7, 2024 ~ Epiphany Sunday

Sermon: “From Chaos to Creativity”

Scripture: Genesis 1:1-5, 26-31

Reverend Cameron Douglas

JANUARY

Jan 7:  Congregational vote on board officers today following worship.

Jan 7: Decorations will be taken down today following worship. Everyone is invited to help.  

January 14: Board meeting following worship

January 14: Dare to Care - 2 p.m.

January 16: Ladies Luncheon 11:15 @ Ricks BBQ on Cox Creek, Florence.

Soup Kitchen

This past Saturday we served 98 plates for take-out and a served meal at First Presbyterian Church.  We had prepared food for over 120 people therefore, about one third of it was left.
As many of you know, there was a fire at Courtview Towers this past Friday. Over 200 residents have been displaced. The Red Cross has a shelter set up at the Mane Room on Pine Street. After consulting, the FCC Soup Kitchen volunteers, which included 3 elders, we delivered the remainder of the food to the shelter at the Mane Room. It was greatly received, and they expressed their gratitude as many of the displaced residents helped us unload.  This donation of food and paper products. We also, took a number of items First Presbyterian Church sent with us. Thanks
to all your generosity and care for your community, First Christian Church has impacted many in need during the end of this Christmas season.  Please be in prayer for this Outreach Ministry as we continue  to do His work in our community.
Rose McGee

First Christian Church

Nominees for 2024

Trustee - Term ends Dec 31. 2026

Tom Lard

Garry Watson

Elders - Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Bob Hill

Connie Lard

John Sutherland

Deryll Banning

Committee Chairs

Term ends Dec 31, 2024

Activities Coordinator - Marsha Carter

Christian Education - Patsy Blasingame

Children And Youth - Laura Aldridge

Community and World Outreach - Carol Hill

Diaconate - Bob Carter

Membership - Suzanne Morris

Personnel - Rose McGee

Property - Leon Nale

Property - Bill Davis

Stewardship - Deryll Banning

Worship - James McCorkle

Treasurer - Tracy Futrell

Bereavement - Judy Goode

Safety and Security - Bob Hill

Board Secretary - Carol Hill

Diaconate -Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Terry McGee

Tracy Johnson

Jessica Johnson

Scott Jackson

Susan Jackson

Bill Davis

Lynne Davis

Love Offering

Scott Miller, son of Myra & John Finch, lost his home and all his belongings to a house fire the week of Dec 11. If you would like to contribute to the love offering for Scott, be sure to note as “Love offering” on the envelope or check.  All donations should be at the church office by January 5.

Thank You

Thank you so much for the donation to the ARC. We will use it for the good of those we support. May God Bless you.

Mike, ARC of the Shoals

Congratulations

Congratulations to Mary Lindsay & David Berrens on the birth of their son, John David. John David

was born on December 19 and weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz. John David is the grandson of Amy & Scott Lovelace.

Prayer Requests

Scott Miller, son of Myra & John Finch, lost his home and all his belongings to a house fire the week of Dec 11. If you would like to contribute to the love offering for Scott, be sure to note as “Love offering” on the envelope or check.  All donations should be at the church office by January 5.

Charlie & Marilyn Highfield: Charlie is now in a residential assisted living in KY.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, is in NAMC, but will be moving to rehabilitation.

Amy Lovelace will be having another heart procedure on Jan. 8, at UAB.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Johnny Faulkner, Grace Reidel, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Rev. Dan Barton, David Hessong, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

Sympathy

Mary McCluskey, stepmother of Marsha Carter, passed away on January 2. Please keep Marsha’s father, Marsha, and the entire family in your prayers.

December 20, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The 12 Days of Christmas

From 1558 to 1829 Roman Catholics in England were not able to practice their faith openly so they had to find other ways to pass on their beliefs. The song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is one example of how they did it. "The 12 Days of Christmas" is in a sense an allegory. Each of the items in the song represents something of religious significance. The hidden meaning of each gift was designed to help young Christians learn their faith.

The song goes, "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me..." The "true love" represents God and the "me" who receives these presents is the Christian.

•  The "partridge in a pear tree" was Jesus Christ who died on a tree as a gift from God.

•  The "two turtle doves" were the Old and New Testaments - another gift from God.

•  The "three French hens" were faith hope and love - the three gifts of the Spirit that abided (Corinthians 13).

•  The "four calling birds" were the four Gospels which sing the song of salvation through Jesus Christ.

•  The "five golden rings" were the first five books of the Bible also called the "Books of Moses."

•  The "six geese a-laying" were the six days of creation.

•  The "seven swans a swimming" were "seven gifts of the Holy Spirit." (I Corinthians 12:8-11, Romans 12, Ephesians 4, 1 Peter 4:10-11)

•  The "eight maids a milking" were the eight beatitudes.

•  The "nine ladies dancing" were nine fruits of the Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23)

•  The "ten lords a-leaping" were the Ten Commandments.

•  The "eleven pipers piping" were the eleven faithful disciples.

•  The "twelve drummers drumming" were the twelve points of the Apostles' Creed.

So, the next time you hear "The 12 Days of Christmas" consider how this otherwise   

non-religious sounding song had its origins in the Christian faith.

Have a Very Merry Christmas and See You Sunday & Christmas Eve!

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, December 24, 2023 ~  Fourth Sunday of Advent

Sermon: “How Can This Be?  ~~ Scripture: Luke 1:26-38

Reverend Cameron Douglas

December

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service – 6pm

Dec 21- Jan 1: Office closed for Holidays. All 2023 contributions must be in the church office no later than December 28.

Dec 30: Soup Kitchen Sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

Dec 30: Fellowship hall reserved: Tonitia Butler.

Dec 31:There will be a congregational vote on the nominees, following worship.  

December Outreach

First Christian Church

Discretionary Fund

The Discretionary Fund of First Christian is used to assist with many ways in our area. With this fund, we are able to assist those who are in need of help, if application guidelines are met.  An assistance form is filled out on each person who requests help, and specific guidelines must be met, (certain organizations resources must be utilized before we help, as well as we cannot have helped within the last 6 months with other assistance). Tammy also works with numerous local organizations to give combined assistance when requested, as available. The need most requested is for Utility assistance.  We also occasionally give vouchers for food items that can be picked up at Food Outlet on Wood Avenue.  During the Holiday Season, Tammy works with several organizations to help when needed by providing Christmas gifts for local families. (These are families who for some reason, did not qualify for the Angel Tree or other organizations Christmas programs.) The Discretionary fund has also helped in various other ways in the local community and even right here in our own church. Your contribution is a wonderful way to allow Tammy to help those in need who reach out when they feel they have nowhere else to turn. You may make a contribution to the Discretionary fund by placing a check in the offering plate, marked for December outreach.

“Come you, that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”  Matthew 25: 34-35

         First Christian Church

Nominees for 2024

Trustee

Term ends Dec 31. 2026

Tom Lard

Garry Watson

Elders

Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Bob Hill

Connie Lard

John Sutherland

Deryll Banning

Committee Chairs

Term ends Dec 31, 2024

Activities Coordinator - Marsha Carter

Christian Education - Patsy Blasingame

Children And Youth - Laura Aldridge

Community and World Outreach - Carol Hill

Diaconate - Bob Carter

Membership - Suzanne Morris

Personnel - Rose McGee

Property - Leon Nale

Property - Bill Davis

Stewardship - Deryll Banning

Worship - James McCorkle

Treasurer - Tracy Futrell

Bereavement - Judy Goode

Safety and Security - Bob Hill

Board Secretary - Carol Hill

Diaconate

Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Terry McGee

Tracy Johnson

Jessica Johnson

Scott Jackson

Susan Jackson

Bill Davis

Lynne Davis

December 31, 2023: There will be a congregational vote on the nominees, following worship.  

Love Offering

Scott Miller, son of Myra & John Finch, lost his home and all his belongings to a house fire the week of Dec 11. This happened during the middle of the night. Thankfully, he was able to make it out, but was burned during the fire and has received medical attention.

First Christian Church will be taking up a love offering for him so he may begin to rebuild what was lost. If you would like to make a donation, you may put it in an envelope and mark it as “Love offering.” All donations should be at the church office by January 5.

Prayer Requests

Scott Miller, son of Myra & John Finch, lost his home and all his belongings in a house fire. Scott was burned in the fire and has gotten medical treatment.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Mary McCluskey, Johnny Faulkner, Grace Reidel, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Rev. Dan Barton, David Hessong, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

December 13, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Love Thy Neighbor - Invite Someone to Church

The season of Advent has arrived with Christmas and the New Year right around the corner. Now is a wonderful time to invite friends, coworkers, family, and neighbors to church.

I’m sure the big question is, “How do I invite someone to our Christmas Eve service?” I have already asked you to be praying about whom to ask to Christmas Eve service and church. Here are some thoughts:

Five Steps to Invite Someone to Church

1. First of all, pray before inviting someone. Seek out God’s guidance and ask the Holy Spirit to prompt you on whom you should invite. If you have someone in mind, ask for assistance from God in this endeavor.

2. Ask the visitor if they would like to go WITH you. Do not throw an open invite, but instead offer to meet them:

• Outside the double glass door main entrance of the church nest to the fellowship hall (and explain which entrance it is.),

• At your home, so you can carpool together,

• Offer to meet in the parking lot and walk in together,

• Offer to meet before or after for a shared meal.

3. Explain what the service and the experience will look like. They may have questions such as :

• What to wear,

• How long the service is,

• What to expect during the service,

• How we take communion,

• Which door should they enter if you aren’t meeting them beforehand,

• Whether are they expected to give.

Take away as much of the unknown as possible, making it less scary to attend.

4. Be by their side as they step into the unknown. Your presence will comfort them and give them the strength to see for themselves what church is really about. Sit with them, introduce them to others, and help them feel comfortable during the service.

5. Finally, follow up. If they attended church, follow up and ask what they thought. Are they interested in attending again? Did they have questions or concerns? Do they know where to start next? Getting them to church is a huge victory, but there is still work to be done.

I look forward to seeing you, and some new faces, throughout the Advent and Christmas season. 

See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, December 17, 2023 ~ Third Sunday of Advent

Sermon: “Witness to the Light”

Scripture: John 1:6-8, 19-28

Reverend Cameron Douglas

STAFF CHRISTMAS GIFTS

With the holiday season upon us, we look to sharing our appreciation for those who give of their special talents-- those who share their love of God with our church family.

If you wish to donate to staff gifts for Christmas, please place your donation in the offering plate, marked “staff gifts.”  

All gifts must be in the church no later than Monday, December 18. Monies received after December 18 will be placed in the savings account to be given out Dec. 2024.   ~Tracy    

December Outreach

First Christian Church Discretionary Fund

The Discretionary Fund of First Christian is used to assist with many ways in our area. With this fund, we are able to assist those who are in need of help, if application guidelines are met.

An assistance form is filled out on each person who requests help, and specific guidelines must be met,

(certain organizations resources must be utilized before we help, as well as we cannot have helped within the last 6 months with other assistance).

Tammy also works with numerous local organizations to give combined assistance when requested, as available. The need most requested is for Utility assistance.  We also occasionally give vouchers for food items that can be picked up at Food Outlet on Wood Avenue.

During the Holiday Season, Tammy works with several organizations to help when needed by providing Christmas gifts for local families. (These are families who for some reason, did not qualify for the Angel Tree or other organizations Christmas programs.)

The Discretionary fund has also helped in various other ways in the local community and even right here in our own church.

Your contribution is a wonderful way to allow Tammy to help those in need who reach out when they feel they have nowhere else to turn.

You may make a contribution to the Discretionary fund by placing a check in the offering plate, marked for December outreach.

“Come you, that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”  Matthew 25: 34-35

Special Offering

On December 17 we will collect a special Christmas Offering. All monies collected will stay in our region. Please note on your check, Special/Christmas offering.

Diaconate

There will be a Deacons organizational meeting on Sunday, December 17, following worship. All current and new Diaconate please attend. Questions, please see Bob Carter. Meet in Library.

Choir Reception

Membership is hosting a reception honoring our choir, in the fellowship hall, immediately following worship on Sunday, December 17.  Please join us to show how much we appreciate all their dedication and hard work.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

'Tis the season to be reading, and here is a novella that will put you in the holiday mood: Lori Copeland's Christmas Vows $5 Extra. Lori Copeland is beloved for her whimsical, folksy style of writing and readers of Christmas Vows $5 Extra will certainly enjoy her trademark humor and warmth. Copeland brings readers a feel-good Christmas story about a young widower and ex-con Ben O'Keefe, who has three hungry children who have hopes of being at Grandma's house for Christmas. However, they get snowed in at softhearted Henrietta Humblesmith's" marrying parlor" for the holidays, and widower Ben has no idea what a special Christmas awaits him and his children. 

First Christian Church

Nominees for 2024

Trustee - Term ends Dec 31. 2026

Tom Lard

Garry Watson

Elders – Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Bob Hill

Connie Lard

John Sutherland

Deryll Banning

Committee Chairs - Term ends Dec 31, 2024

Activities Coordinator - Marsha Carter

Christian Education - Patsy Blasingame

Children And Youth - Laura Aldridge

Community and World Outreach - Carol Hill

Diaconate - Bob Carter

Membership - Suzanne Morris

Personnel - Rose McGee

Property - Leon Nale

Property - Bill Davis

Stewardship - Deryll Banning

Worship - James McCorkle

Treasurer - Tracy Futrell

Bereavement - Judy Goode

Safety and Security - Bob Hill

Board Secretary - Carol Hill

Diaconate - Term ends Dec 31, 2026

Terry McGee

Tracy Johnson

Jessica Johnson

Scott Jackson

Susan Jackson

Bill Davis

Lynne Davis

Ladies Christmas Luncheon

Turtle Point – December 12, 2023

Everyone had a wonderful time! We enjoyed lunch, gifts (Sneaky Santa), and fellowship! We missed those who were not able to attend and hope you will join us in the New Year! Merry Christmas!!

Prayer Requests

Grant Givens, 49-year-old grandson of June Helton, had a stroke. He is home now and going to physical therapy. Grant lives in Nashville.

Johnny Faulkner, neighbor of Bob & Carol Hill is recovering from open heart surgery.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Mary McCluskey, Grace Reidel, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Rev. Dan Barton, David Hessong, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

December

Dec 17: Choir reception in the fellowship hall following worship. Let’s all show the choir how much we appreciate all their hard work.

Diaconate meeting in the library following worship.

Dec 17: Choir Cantata.

Dec. 18: All donations for staff gifts due in the church office.

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service – 6pm

Dec 21- Jan 1: Office closed for Holidays. All 2023 contributions must be in the church office no later than December 28. Tammy will be in the office to enter all contributions and do deposit on Dec. 29.

Dec 30: Soup Kitchen Sign-up sheet will be on bulletin board.

Dec 30: Fellowship hall reserved: Tonitia Butler.

December 7, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Waiting

I don’t know anyone who likes to wait. Whether it is waiting in line, waiting on a package to be delivered, or waiting for a prayer to be answered, waiting is not something we usually enjoy. What we sometimes forget is that there is a great deal of wisdom in waiting. This is why Advent is so important. Advent is a good time to learn about waiting because this season is all about waiting well. For the next few weeks, we sit on the edge of our seats waiting for God to come to us in Christ and transform our lives with his love. In this process of waiting for Christmas, Advent teaches us lessons about why God sometimes makes us wait.

Many of us never learn the wisdom in waiting because waiting is not always fun. That’s why our culture is built around preventing this dreaded task — fast food, faster internet, faster delivery, faster service, call ahead seating, no waiting! We send a text, and we love getting a text back instantly! We go on the internet, and we love shopping and buying with one click. We can find a book we want and press one button and boom it is downloaded and so is our credit card! 

Recently the New York Times published an article stating that we will visit a website less often if it is slower than a close competitor by a quarter of a second. That’s .25 seconds! That’s way too long for any normal person to wait! We don’t like to wait! We want what we want now!

Advent is about waiting. Advent is reminding us that God is patiently waiting too. God’s waiting for you to come to Him. Just like the shepherds and wise men. God is lovingly waiting for you to know him, to commit yourself fully to him, and to follow him where he may lead. I do hope your Advent and Christmas is a good and meaningful one. 

Can’t wait to see Sunday (pun intended, Lol!) and God will make it worth your while. Just look for him, watch and see him in all that you say and do.

See you then, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, December 10, 2023 ~ Second Sunday of Advent

Sermon: “When Did This Start?” 

Scripture: Mark 1:1-8

Reverend Cameron Douglas

REMINDER

Diaconate

There will be a Deacons organizational meeting on Sunday, December 17, following worship. All current and new Diaconate please attend. Questions, please see Bob Carter. Please meet in the fellowship hall.

Celebrate the Christmas Season!

First Christian Church Ladies Luncheon

Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 11:15 a.m.

Turtle Point Yacht & Country Club

1000 Club Drive, Killen, AL 35645 

Menu includes Sliced ham/chicken dressing, Green Beans, Squash Casserole,

Dinner Rolls, And Dessert.   Price is $18.00/person 

Cash or make checks payable to Marsha Carter. 

Sneaky Santa (nice gifts) will be traded for fun.$15.00 gift allowance

STAFF CHRISTMAS GIFTS

With the holiday season upon us, we look to sharing our appreciation for those who give of their special talents-- those who share their love of God with our church family.

If you wish to donate to staff gifts for Christmas, please place your donation in the offering plate, marked “staff gifts.”  

All gifts must be in the church no later than Monday, December 18. Monies received after December 18 will be placed in the savings account to be given out Dec. 2024.   ~Tracy    

December Outreach

First Christian Church Discretionary Fund

The Discretionary Fund of First Christian is used to assist with many ways in our area. With this fund, we are able to assist those who are in need of help, if application guidelines are met.

An assistance form is filled out on each person who requests help, and specific guidelines must be met,

(certain organizations resources must be utilized before we help, as well as we cannot have helped within the last 6 months with other assistance).

Tammy also works with numerous local organizations to give combined assistance when requested, as available. The need most requested is for Utility assistance.  We also occasionally give vouchers for food items that can be picked up at Food Outlet on Wood Avenue.

During the Holiday Season, Tammy works with several organizations to help when needed by providing Christmas gifts for local families. (These are families who for some reason, did not qualify for the Angel Tree or other organizations Christmas programs.)

The Discretionary fund has also helped in various other ways in the local community and even right here in our own church.

Your contribution is a wonderful way to allow Tammy to help those in need who reach out when they feel they have nowhere else to turn.

You may make a contribution to the Discretionary fund by placing a check in the offering plate, marked for December outreach.

“Come you, that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry, and you gave me food, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”

Matthew 25: 34-35

 Special Offering

On December 17 we will collect a special Christmas Offering. All monies collected will stay in our region. Please note on your check, Special/Christmas offering.

M. H. Harper Library - Thomas Harrison

Mrs. Kay Stegall has donated The Year of Living Biblically by A. J. Jacobs in honor of Tonitia Butler for her dedication to teaching Sunday school at First Christian Church. With this book, Jacobs has written a fascinating exploration of religion and the Bible. While he was raised in a rather non-religious family, Jacobs grew increasingly interested in the relevance of faith in our modern world. Thus, Jacobs decided to dedicate himself head-on to the challenge of attempting to obey the Bible as literally as possible for the period of a full year. His primary vows were to follow the Ten Commandments; to be fruitful and multiply; and to love his neighbor, while also obeying the hundreds of less-well-known rules: for example, abstaining from wearing clothes made of mixed fibers; playing a ten-string harp; and stoning adulterers. In response to the question, "Why do this?" Jacobs states in his website (ajjacobs.com), "Well, I grew up in a very secular home (I’m officially Jewish but I’m Jewish in the same way the Olive Garden is an Italian restaurant). I’d always assumed religion would just wither away and we’d live in a neo-Enlightenment world. I was, of course, spectacularly wrong. So was I missing something essential to being a human? Or was half the world deluded? I decided to dive in headfirst. To try to experience the Bible myself and find out what’s good in it, and what’s maybe not so relevant to the 21st century. The resulting year was fascinating, entertaining and informative. It was equal parts irreverent and reverent. It was filled with surprising insights almost every day. (I know it’s not biblical to boast, so, apologies for that)." Amazon's synopsis states that The Year of Living Biblically "will charm readers both secular and religious" and that "Thou shalt not be able to put it down."

December

Dec 12: Women’s Luncheon at Turtle Point. 11:15. Price $18 per person. Gifts will be exchanged ($15 limit)

Dec 17: Diaconate meeting in fellowship hall following worship.

Dec 17: Choir Cantata.

Dec. 18: All donations for staff gifts due in the church office.

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service – 6pm

Dec 21- Jan 1: Office closed for Holidays. All 2023 contributions must be in the church office no later than December 28. Tammy will be in the office to enter all contributions and do deposit on Dec. 29.

Dec 30: Soup Kitchen Sign-up sheet will be on bulletin board.

Dec 30: Fellowship hall reserved: Tonitia Butler.

Congratulations!

Mark & Faye Sanders would like to recognize their  granddaughter, Valerie Grosso. Valerie will graduate on  December 9, after just 3 1/2 years at UNA. The Sanders are so proud and can’t believe her college years went so quickly. She plans to attend Dental Hygiene School in the fall of next year.

Dare to Care

Dare to Care will not meet during the month of December.

The Dare to Care committee would like to ask everyone in the congregation to mail Christmas Cards to our shut-ins or those home sick or in the hospital.

There are Christmas Cards available at the church in the workroom if you need a few.

Let’s cover our shut-ins and sick with our love and let them know they are remembered.

(You can see the names on our Prayer list for others you may want to send a card.)

Congratulations!!

On November 29, 2023, Logan Smith was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success at UNA. Congratulations Logan!

Thank You

Thank you to Skip Hodges, Amy McCorkle and Faye Tash for all your hard work cleaning in the kitchen. The stove looks great!!

Prayer Requests

Ashley & Nathan Tinker and family. The Tinkers 8-month-old daughter Heritage passed away this past week after a short battle with meningitis.

Johnny Faulkner, neighbor of Bob & Carol Hill will be having open heart surgery on Friday.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, is in NAMC. 

Mary McCluskey, stepmother of Marsha Carter is in NAMC.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Grace Reidel, Jeremy Jennings, Brian Davis, Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Rev. Dan Barton, David Hessong, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

——————————————————————————————————————————————————-

November 29, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

What Would You Like for Christmas?

It is always interesting to read what children write. Sometimes they are completely candid. This candor shows in a list someone has made of children’s letters to Santa:

“Dear Santa, 

“Could you come early this year?  I’ve been really super good, but I don’t know if I can last much longer. Please hurry. Love, Jordan.” Now there’s an honest young man.

“Dear Santa, 

“Mommy says that you only bring presents for good little boys. That isn’t fair. (Signed) Brian.” Sounds like Brian has already failed the test for being good.

But the one I like is from Jenny:

“Dear Santa, 

“Please give me a doll this year. I would like her to eat, walk, do my homework, and help me clean my room. Thank you. (Signed) Jenny.” 

I understand Jenny’s Mom has asked Santa for that identical doll. - copied

What would you like for Christmas this year? I’m not sure any one “thing” will do for me. That is to say, I would like for there to be the blessing of hope, peace, joy, and love for everyone around the world and here at FCC. We are all prepared to have a wonderful Advent season in worship and through other church activities (Hanging of the Greens service, weekly Advent Wreath Lighting) and I am truly looking forward to our Christmas Eve Candlelight services. 

Speaking of which, I went through some of my church growth materials and re-discovered an article saying that un-churched people are more likely to come to a church service on Christmas Eve than any other time of the year! Imagine that! Who do you know who is not currently attending a church and you can ask to come with you for our Christmas Eve services? There will be a Christmas Eve service at 6:00. The services will have the Advent Wreath lighting, reading of the birth narrative scriptures, singing Christmas carols and hymns, and communion. Wow, mark that on your calendar and be praying about bringing a guest.

See You this Sunday, the First Sunday of Advent!

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, December 3, 2023

First Sunday of Advent

Sermon: “When Did This Start?”

Scripture: Mark 1:1-8

Reverend Cameron Douglas

 STAFF CHRISTMAS GIFTS

With the holiday season upon us, we look to sharing our appreciation for those who give of their special talents-- those who share their love of God with our church family.

If you wish to donate to staff gifts for Christmas, please place your donation in the offering plate, marked “staff gifts.”  

All gifts must be in the church no later than Monday, December 18. Monies received after December 18 will be placed in the savings account to be given out Dec. 2024.   ~Tracy    

NOVEMBER OUTREACH 

During the month of November, we are also taking donations to go to the FOXG1 Foundation in honor of Aria Perry.

FOXG1 Syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation of the FOXG1 gene, which impacts brain development and function. This severe condition is characterized by seizures, inability to control body movements, and lack of speech. While the spectrum of abilities is quite broad depending on the exact genetic mutation, many of the children cannot walk or talk, and they struggle to communicate their most basic daily needs. It is possible for parents to be carriers, but most cases of FOXG1 are non-inherited and have no family history.

There is no cure for the FOXG1 Syndrome, but with medications, physical and speech therapy, and nutritional support to help manage symptoms and prevent complications, a stable quality of life can be achieved. If you would like to donate, please put “FOXG1” or November outreach in the “for” section of your check.

Celebrate the Christmas Season!

First Christian Church Ladies Luncheon

Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 11:15 a.m.

Turtle Point Yacht & Country Club

1000 Club Drive, Killen, AL 35645

Menu includes Sliced ham/chicken dressing, Green Beans, Squash Casserole,

Dinner Rolls, And Dessert.  

Price is $18.00/person

Reserve your spot with Tammy by Thursday, December 7.

Cash or make checks payable to Marsha Carter. 

Sneaky Santa (nice gifts)

will be traded for fun.

$15.00 gift allowance

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Coby Futrell and all the other students at Florence High School on being inducted into The National Honor Society!

Way to go Coby!!

POINSETTIAS

If you would like to order a Poinsettia, order forms are on the podium by the minister’s office.

All orders need to be in the church office no later than December 11, 2023.

Poinsettias will be placed in the Sanctuary on Sunday, December 24, for both our regular service and our Christmas Eve service that evening. You may purchase a Poinsettia in memory or in honor of someone.  Cost: $17.50 each

December

December 11: Poinsettia Orders due: Order forms are on the podium by ministers’ office.  Cost: $17.50.

Dec 12: Women’s Luncheon at Turtle Point. 11:15. Price $18 per person. Please reserve your spot with Tammy no later than Dec. 7. Gifts will be exchanged ($15 limit)

Dec 17: Diaconate meeting in fellowship hall following worship.

Dec 17: Choir Cantata.

Dec. 18: All donations for staff gifts due in the church office.

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service – 6pm

Dec 21- Jan 1: Office closed for Holidays. All 2023 contributions must be in the church office no later than December 28. Tammy will be in the office to enter all contributions and do deposit on Dec. 29.

Dec 30: Soup Kitchen Sign-up sheet will be on bulletin board.

Dec 30: Fellowship hall reserved: Tonitia Butler.

M. H. Harper Library - Thomas Harrison

Laura Aldridge has kindly donated to our library Earl Irvin West's four-volume set, entitled The Search for the Ancient Order: A History of the Restoration Movement (Volume I: 1849-1865; Volume II: 1866-1906; Volume III: 1900-1918; and Volume IV: 1919-1950) (Call # 286.63 WES). This set of books once belonged to Laura's aunt, Johnnie Gilliland Stewart. The first volume addresses the formative years of the great movement, which resulted in both the Disciples of Christ and the Church of Christ denominations; additional focus includes the lives of some of the great early leaders, with chapters including The Stone Movement and The Campbell Movement. In Volume II, there are chapters addressing such issues as The Society Controversy and The Instrumental Music Controversy. The spread of the movement within our country as well as abroad are addressed in Volume III, with chapters entitled How the West was Won, Below the Mason-Dixon, and The Ministry of Foreign Missions. Also covered within this volume are some Church of Christ colleges, such as Harding and Lipscomb. The final volume (IV) is focused solely on the Church of Christ, with chapters such a The Church's Grand Old Man (T. B. Larimore) and additional missionary chapters (The Dark Continents and Turning Japan to Christ). 

Dare to Care

Dare to Care will not meet during the month of December.

The Dare to Care committee would like to ask everyone in the congregation to mail Christmas Cards to our shut-ins or those home sick or in the hospital.

There are Christmas Cards available at the church in the workroom if you need a few.

Let’s cover our shut-ins and sick with our love and let them know they are remembered.

Prayer Requests

Heritage Tinker, daughter of Ashley & Nathan Tinker. Heritage is 8 months old and is in the hospital with bacterial meningitis.

Jeremy Jennings, son-in-law of Tammy Hendrix, was in a work accident and broke several bones in his foot.

Reverend Tim Clark, friend of Cameron Douglas, 16 yr. old grandson was killed in an ATV accident. Pray for the family.

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha Carter, is in rehabilitation.  

Grace Reidel, friend of Judy Goode, lost her husband and also fell and broke hip. She is at J. W. Sommers Rehab.

Continued Prayers: Bobby Moore, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Jean Harrison, S.J. Cates, Rev. Dan Barton, David Hessong, Brian Davis, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

REMINDER

Diaconate

There will be a Deacons organizational meeting on Sunday, December 17, following worship. All current and new Diaconate please attend. Questions, please see Bob Carter. Please meet in the fellowship hall.

Happy Anniversary!

J.B. and Nancy Webb celebrated their 64th Wedding Anniversary on November 27. Congratulations!!

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November 15, 2023

“When I say I am a Christian,”

written by Carol Wimmer

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost sometimes
That’s why I chose this way”

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble –
needing God to be my guide

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak
and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed
and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
asking humbly to be taught

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
but God believes I’m worth it

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
which is why I seek God’s name

When I say, “I am a Christian”
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I’m love

Poem

Nadine Pate shared the poem: When I Say I am a Christian. I thought it was worth sharing with the congregation.  Pastor Cameron

Celebrate the Christmas Season!

First Christian Church Ladies Luncheon

Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 11:15 a.m.

Turtle Point Yacht & Country Club

1000 Club Drive, Killen, AL 35645

Menu includes Sliced ham/chicken dressing, Green Beans, Squash Casserole, Dinner Rolls, And Dessert.  

Price is $18.00/person

Reserve your spot with Tammy by Thursday, December 7.

Cash or make checks payable to Marsha Carter.

Sneaky Santa (nice gifts) will be traded for fun - $15.00 gift allowance

POINSETTIAS

Poinsettia orders are beginning. If you would like to order a Poinsettia, an order form will be included in your bulletin for the next few weeks on Sundays. Copies are also available on the podium by the minister’s office.

All orders need to be in the church office no later than December 11, 2023.

Poinsettias will be placed in the Sanctuary on Sunday, November 24, for both our regular service and our Christmas Eve service that evening. You may purchase a Poinsettia in memory or in honor of someone.

Cost: $17.50 each

STAFF CHRISTMAS GIFTS

With the holiday season upon us, we look to sharing our appreciation for those who give of their special talents-- those who share their love of God with our church family.

If you wish to donate to staff gifts for Christmas, please place your donation in the offering plate, marked “staff gifts.”  

All gifts must be in the church no later than Monday, December 18. Monies received after December 18 will be placed in the savings account to be given out Dec. 2024.   ~Tracy    

THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON

A time of Thanksgiving is upon us and so is our traditional Thanksgiving luncheon on November 19. The church will provide Turkey & Dressing, Ham, drinks, and rolls. The membership committee is asking everyone to bring a favorite dish or dessert.

Diaconate

There will be a Deacons organizational meeting on Sunday, December 17, following worship. All current and new Diaconate please attend. Questions, please see Bob Carter. Please meet in the fellowship hall.

YARD WORK AND

CLEAN-UP DAY

On November 17 & 18, we will have a church yard clean-up day. We need volunteers to help with clean-up around the church.  If you are able to help outside with general yard work, please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board. Questions, please see Leon Nale.

Chrismon Tree & Decorations

We will be decorating the Chrismon tree and Sanctuary, following worship on Sunday, November 26. Please plan to stay to help Tonitia and the Worship committee so that we will have our church ready for Advent.

Operation Christmas Child

90!

The number of Shoeboxes that were packed for Operation Christmas Child. Our goal was 50. Last year 40 were packed.

This year we packed NINETY BOXES!!! 

First Christian Church YOU ARE AMAZING!!! Think of the smiles you are bringing to 85 children. Thank you for your caring hearts, your love for church and your love for Jesus Christ. ~Marsha Carter

Dates to Remember

Nov. 22-24: Office closed for Thanksgiving holidays

December

Dec. 10: Dare to Care

December 11: Poinsettia Orders due: Order forms will be in your bulletin. Cost: $17.50.

Dec 12: Women’s Luncheon at Turtle Point. 11:15. Price $18 per person. Please reserve your spot with Tammy no later than Dec. 7. Gifts will be exchanged ($15 limit)

Dec 17: Christmas Offering

Dec. 18: All donations for staff gifts due in the church office.

Dec 24: Christmas Eve Service – 6pm

Dec 21- 28: Office closed for Holidays. All contributions must be in the church office no later than December 28. to be counted for 2023. Tammy will be in the office to enter all end of year contributions and do the last deposit on December 29.

Dec 30: Soup Kitchen

NOVEMBER OUTREACH

During the month of November, we are also taking donations to go to the FOXG1 Foundation in honor of Aria Perry.

FOXG1 Syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation of the FOXG1 gene, which impacts brain development and function. This severe condition is characterized by seizures, inability to control body movements, and lack of speech. While the spectrum of abilities is quite broad depending on the exact genetic mutation, many of the children cannot walk or talk, and they struggle to communicate their most basic daily needs. It is possible for parents to be carriers, but most cases of FOXG1 are non-inherited and have no family history.

There is no cure for the FOXG1 Syndrome, but with medications, physical and speech therapy, and nutritional support to help manage symptoms and prevent complications, a stable quality of life can be achieved. If you would like to donate, please put “FOXG1” or November outreach in the “for” section of your check.

Prayer Requests

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha carter is now in Florence Rehabilitation.

S.J. Cates had a double lung transplant on Tuesday, November 14. She is a friend of Pam Watson.

Doris Statom family, close family friend of Jessica & Tracy Johnson and family, passed away on Sunday, November 19.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Wanda Johnson, Brian Davis, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

 ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

November 7, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner
Humility in Action

Dr. Thomas Hilton tells a story of a man with the odd name: Horville Sash. Horville had a very humble job in a certain company, a job in the lowest basement of a building. He was a mail room clerk. As a mail room clerk, there was no one who was lower than he was.

One day he came across a bug scurrying across the floor. Horville may have the lowliest job in the whole company, but he was bigger than the bug! So, he raised his foot to flatten the hapless bug. But this story is a fable, and the bug speaks. "Spare me," said the bug, "and I will grant you your fondest wishes." Horville spared the bug. His reward: a wish. "I wish to be promoted to the second floor." 

And his wish was granted. Zap! He found himself working on the second floor. But wait. Horville heard footsteps on the ceiling of floor number two. A higher level meant higher wages. 

The next day, Horville rose to the third-floor job of sales coordinator. But that didn't end his ambition. He wished for still more promotions. He went to the tenth floor, then to the twentieth--the fiftieth--the seventieth. 

Still, he was not satisfied. Horville was sitting by the indoor pool on floor ninety-six, when he discovered a stairway leading up...to another floor? He scrambled up the stairs and found himself on the roof. At last, he was the highest, the greatest. Finally, content, he headed for the down stairway, when he came across a boy on the edge of the building with his eyes closed. "What are you doing?" "Praying." "To whom?" The boy pointed a finger skyward, and replied, "To God." 

Panic gripped Horville. Was there a floor above him? He couldn't see it, and he couldn't hear any footsteps shuffling around up there. Just clouds. "Do you mean that there's somebody above me? Someone greater than I?" "Yes." 

The bug was summoned. "Make me God. Make me the greatest. Put me in the type of position that only God would hold if he were on earth." The very day, Horville began work in the mail room.

I’ll See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sermon: “Your Faith is Your Fuel”

Scripture: Matthew 25:1-13

Reverend Cameron Douglas

Operation Christmas Child

First Christian Women will pack up the boxes to be mailed on November 14, during our Women’s Luncheon. We still need items to finish filling these boxes. If you would like to bring some items, you may leave them on the table in the fellowship hall by the boxes. Thank you for all your help!

WOMENS LUNCHEON

Our next Women’s luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall here at First Christian., on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.

We will be packing the operation Christmas Child boxes, so they will be ready to be shipped.

*****Our box lunches will be from Honey Baked Ham.

Options available are:

1: Ham Sandwich box lunch

2: Turkey sandwich box lunch

3: Chicken salad box lunch

(Any of the above can be done without bread if preferred) All box lunches include chips & cookie. Cost: $10.29

You will need to provide your own drinks.

Please call the church office to let Tammy know which option you would prefer no later than, Thursday, Nov. 9 by noon, so the orders will need to be called in. .

You may also bring your own lunch of you would prefer.

YARD WORK AND

CLEAN-UP DAY

On November 17 & 18, we will have a church yard clean-up day. We need volunteers to help with clean-up around the church.  If you are able to help outside with general yard work, please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board. Questions, please talk to Leon Nale.

POINSETTIAS

Poinsettia orders are beginning. If you would like to order a Poinsettia, an order form will be included in your bulletin for the next few weeks on Sundays. Copies are also available on the podium by the minister’s office.

All orders need to be in the church office no later than December 11, 2023.

Poinsettias will be placed in the Sanctuary on Sunday, November 24, for both our regular service and our Christmas Eve service that evening. You may purchase a Poinsettia in memory or in honor of someone.

Cost: $17.50 each

THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON

A time of Thanksgiving is upon us and so is our traditional Thanksgiving luncheon on November 19. James McCorkle will be in the foyer on Sunday, November 5, and 12, to get a count of how many will be attending. The church will provide Turkey & Dressing, Ham, drinks, and rolls. The membership committee is asking everyone to bring a favorite dish or dessert.

Dates to Remember

Nov 12: Veterans Day Recognition

Nov. 12: Dare to Care

Nov. 14: Women’s Luncheon – Pack Operation Christmas child boxes.

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

STEWARDSHIP

Stewardship Invitation: You are cordially invited to use some of your Time, Talent, and Treasure to ensure First Christian will continue to be a welcoming sanctuary of God’s peace in our community. ~ Barry Morris

Our annual Luncheon will be held following worship on Sunday, November 19. You should have received your Stewardship letter from the church by mail. Included were a Pledge Card, a Time, Talent & Treasure brochure, a copy of the proposed budget for last year and a letter from our Stewardship Chair, Barry Morris.  If you did not receive this, please let Tammy know in the church office and she will get you a copy of each.

BIRTHDAY
Grace Noles will be 106 on November 11. Due to covid precautions at The Renaissance, there will be a drive by Birthday celebration. Family and friends of the Noles will meet on Friday, November 10 in the parking lot of United Benefits, just past The Renaissance, a little before 2 pm. If you are not able to meet for the drive by celebration, she loves cards!

2023 LIVING VETERANS OF

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 

Deryll Banning – MARINE

Craig Blasingame – ARMY

Jim Blasingame – ARMY

Bill Brackin Jr. – NAVY

Dick Burch - ARMY

Adam Clark – AIR FORCE

Holly Davis Clark – AIR FORCE

Kenn Creitz – ARMY

Wayne Collier – MARINE

Bill Coussons – ARMY

Noah Coussons – AIR FORCE

Bill Davis – NAVY

Julian Englett – NAVY

Don McCamy – NAVAL AIR RESERVE

Leon Nale – NAVY

Jim Noles - ARMY

Robbie Pinkston – NAVY

Bill Simpson – NAVY

Jim Storie - NAVY

Andrew Walker – MARINE

Sam Walker – MARINE

Prayer Requests

Barbara Sharp, mother of Marsha carter is in NAMC.

Continued Prayers: Judy Goode, Tommie Plunk, James McCorkle, Wayne Collier, Mark Sanders, Robert Crittenden, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd. 

Friends and Family of First Christian: Wanda Johnson, Brian Davis, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Butler, Sidney Goldstein, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

Sympathy: Paige Hix, friend of Claire McCamy, passed away on November 1. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers.

————————————————————————————————————————————————————

OCTOBER 31, 2023

Middle East Crisis

Responding with partners to war in the Middle East

Since the Hamas attacks in Israel on October 7, violence and devastation have escalated in the Middle East, with years of political tension and conflict bearing out in the most horrifying and heartbreaking ways. Thousands of civilians have been killed and thousands more injured as the warfare persists. Week of Compassion has been in frequent contact with trusted partners, including through Global Ministries, the Middle East Council of Churches, and ACT Alliance. These partners are in close conversation about immediate needs in Israel/Palestine and the broader region - food, water, shelter, medical care, sanitation - and know there will be many considerations to come regarding a long-term solution and recovery. 

Yesterday, October 17, the world received word of the destruction of the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. A ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, Al-Ahli is a longtime partner through both Global Ministries and ACT Alliance and has a long history of remarkable work. In 2019, Week of Compassion Executive Director Vy Nguyen and Global Ministries Global Relations Minister for the Middle East and Europe Peter Makari gathered there as Al-Ahli was presented with the Global Ministries Award of Affirmation: 

… recognized for its crucial ministry of healthcare in one of the most densely populated and de-developed places in the world. Al-Ahli Hospital has continued to serve the people of Gaza with medical care (often free of charge) in the most trying of circumstances. The courageous medical and professional staff persevere, remaining committed to their calling to provide care and hope, delivered in a spirit of love and service.

In a statement, the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem grieves “the loss of countless lives, a manifestation of what can only be described as a crime against humanity. Hospitals, by the tenets of international humanitarian law, are sanctuaries, yet this assault has transgressed those sacred boundaries."

Our partners are ready to respond with medical relief and community-led initiatives including food, shelter, and sanitation. 

100% of your gifts to Week of Compassion, designated ‘Middle East Crisis’, will be used for responses in the region.

See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

November 5, 2023

Sermon: “Designer Religion”

Scripture: Matthew 23:1-12

STEWARDSHIP

Stewardship Invitation: You are cordially invited to use some of your Time, Talent, and Treasure to ensure First Christian will continue to be a welcoming sanctuary of God’s peace in our community. ~ Barry Morris

Our annual Luncheon will be held following worship on Sunday, November 19. You should have received your Stewardship letter from the church by mail. Included were a Pledge Card, a Time, Talent & Treasure brochure, a copy of the proposed budget for last year and a letter from our Stewardship Chair, Barry Morris.  If you did not receive this, please let Tammy know in the church office and she will get you a copy of each.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON

A time of Thanksgiving is upon us and so is our traditional Thanksgiving luncheon on November 19. James McCorkle will be in the foyer on Sunday, November 5, and 12, to get a count of how many will be attending. The church will provide Turkey & Dressing, Ham, drinks, and rolls. The membership committee is asking everyone to bring a favorite dish or dessert.

Thank You

Dear First Christian Church,

Thank you so much for your continuing support of Safeplace and the families we serve. Your regular donations are greatly appreciated and go a long way toward helping us meet current needs. Your support is literally saving and changing the lives of the families served by Safeplace. While the needs of victims of domestic violence are great and growing, Safeplace continues to provide the services that empower survivors and their children to live in peace .

Thank You, Sincerely, Safeplace

Prayer Requests

Wanda Johnson, friend of Thomas Harrison, prayers appreciated. 

Paige Hix, friend of Claire McCamy, has a brain tumor.

Continued Prayers: Judy Goode, Tommie Plunk, James McCorkle, Wayne Collier, Mark Sanders, Robert Crittenden, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Joe VanDyke, Brian Davis, Dr. Scott Benefield, Carl White, Butler, Sidney Goldstein, neighbor of Barry & Suzanne Morris, Burt Helton, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

Sweet Caroline is a novel by Rachel Hauck, with a large-print copy having just been added to our library. Life has not always been so "sweet" for Caroline Sweeny, who has often sacrificed her personal wants and desires for those of others. Caroline tends to serve others, while taking little time to enjoy the sweeter parts of her own life. Her mother had behaved quite oppositely, however, having abandoned her family years ago. When a friend challenges Caroline to accept an exciting job in Spain, she says “yes” to a new destiny. Before Caroline can even consider packing up her life, she suddenly finds herself the new owner of the run-down Frogmore Café, forcing her to choose between her friends and her future. Adding to the decision-making dilemma is the return to town of her old boyfriend, Mitch O’Neal, presenting her with a second chance at first love. Mitch encourages Caroline to seek God’s desire for her future, a decision that could very well help her discover her true "sweet" life.

Fifth Sunday Breakfast

A very special thank you to Leon Nale, Sam Walker, Bill Davis, Barry Morris, James McCorkle as well as Faye Tash and her son Chuck who provided the fresh eggs for making the Men’s Breakfast such a wonderful success!  The breakfast was absolutely delicious and enjoyed by all who attended.  We appreciate not only the meal, but your time and devotion in making sure we all had an amazing time of fellowship!

BIRTHDAY
Grace Noles will be 106 on November 11.

Due to covid precautions at The Renaissance, there will be a drive by Birthday celebration. Family and friends of the Noles will meet on Friday, November 10 in the parking lot of United Benefits, just past The Renaissance, a little before 2 pm.

If you are not able to meet for the drive by celebration, she loves cards!

YARD WORK AND

CLEAN-UP DAY

On November 17 & 18, we will have a church yard clean-up day. We need volunteers to help with clean-up around the church.  If you are able to help outside with general yard work, please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board. Questions, please talk to Leon Nale.

All Saints Sunday

Each year on the first Sunday of November, the church celebrates the lives of saints. November fifth, we will honor those Saints of our Congregation. A candle will be lit in memory of those Saints.  Each is but a dim reminder of the brightness they brought to our church.

Memories

I feel a warmth around me

like your presence is so near,

And I close my eyes to visualize

your face when you were here,

I endure the times we spent together

and they are locked inside my heart,

For as long as I have those memories

we will never be apart,

Even though we cannot speak

my voice is always there,

Because tonight before I sleep

I have you in my prayer.

By : Louise Bailey

Reverend Dr. Robert Stegall

April 13, 2023

Lorraine Banning

August 27, 2023

Sadricia Wilson

July 28, 2023

Family Members and Friends

Family members and friends that we were notified of:

 The Many that have witnessed to Christ, faithfully served Christ’s people, and in doing so, have shaped our lives.

Dot Holland

June 5, 2023

(No photo available)

Ellen Hall

December 27, 2022

(Grandmother of Tamara Robinson)

Madeline Boyett

January 12, 2023

(UNA student who parked in our lot)

Joe Franklin

January 14, 2023

(High school friend of Tammy Hendrix)

Bryson Green

January 14, 2023

(family friend of Tammy Hendrix)

Shylee Bradford Bevis

September 23, 2023

(friend of many)

Jerry Clark

March 19, 2023

(Cousin of Diane Douglas)

Randall Watts

June 16, 2023

(Lynne Davis nephew)

Sharon Streeter

July 2023

(mother of Crystal Sanders-DIL of The Morris)

Christie Snodgrass McKinnon

September 20, 2023

(Family friend of Grace Simpson, Tammy Hendrix & family)

Harold Moore

September 24, 2023

(Brother of Bobby Morre)

Marcy Davis

September 15, 2023

(Aunt of Faye Sanders & Kaye Fleming)

POINSETTIAS

Poinsettia orders are beginning. If you would like to order a Poinsettia, an order form will be included in your bulletin for the next few weeks on Sundays. Copies are also available on the podium by the minister’s office.

All orders need to be in the church office no later than December 11, 2023.

Poinsettias will be placed in the Sanctuary on Sunday, November 24, for both our regular service and our Christmas Eve service that evening. You may purchase a Poinsettia in memory or in honor of someone.

Cost: $17.50 each

WOMENS LUNCHEON

Our next Women’s luncheon will be held in the fellowship hall here at First Christian., on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.

We will be packing the operation Christmas Child boxes, so they will be ready to be shipped. Our box lunches will be from Honey Baked Ham.

Options available are:

1: Ham Sandwich box lunch

2: Turkey sandwich box lunch

3: Chicken salad box lunch

(Any of the above can be done without bread if preferred) All box lunches include chips & cookie. Cost: $10.29

You will need to provide your own drinks.

Please call the church office to let Tammy know which option you would prefer no later than, Thursday, Nov. 9 by noon, so the orders will need to be called in.

Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993 over 200 million children worldwide have received a box through Operation Christmas child. Of those children, 50 million have committed their lives to Christ!! First Christian Women will pack up the boxes to be mailed on November 14, during our Women’s Luncheon. We still need items to finish filling these boxes.

If you would like to bring some items, you may leave them on the table in the fellowship hall by the boxes. Thank you for all your help!

VETERANS DAY

Veterans Day is November 11, 2023. On Sunday, November 12, we will honor all those who are serving or who have served in our congregation.

If you have come to First Christian recently, or if you have never shared your information with the church office, please do so.  Please contact Tammy in the church office no later than, Monday, November 6, so that she may include your name and branch of Service. We would like to be able to recognize each person.

Dates to Remember

Nov 4: Time Change (turn back your clocks)

Nov. 5: All Saints Sunday

Nov 12: Veterans Day Recognition

Nov. 12: Dare to Care

Nov. 14: Women’s Luncheon – Pack Operation Christmas child boxes.

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

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October 25, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Whose Son Is He?

Perhaps you heard that an ossuary, a burial box for bones, was discovered in Israel not long ago. The limestone box is from the first century. An inscription on its side in the Aramaic language reads, “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus.”

The ossuary has been thoroughly reviewed by scientist and archaeological experts and they have concluded it is “very probable” that this is the actual burial crypt for the remains of Jesus’ brother James. In the book of Acts, James was the first leader of the early church.

What is so breath taking about this artifact is it’s the only reference to Jesus from the first Century. Prior to this there was nothing. The earliest reference to Jesus was a fragment of John’s Gospel from 125 A.D. This ossuary is dated to 63 A.D. Just 30 years after Jesus’ death. This is the closest we’ve gotten to the historical Jesus. What an incredible find.

James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus. That’s what the box says but that is only half the story. The other half is found in Jesus’ cryptic question that I will be exploring with you this Sunday at church (Matthew 22:34-46): What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he?” Let me ask you that question: What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he? Is he the son of Joseph, the brother of James? Or more importantly is he the Son of God, brother of all humankind?

Answer this question and you will be empowered to love God with all you heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as you love yourself.

See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Sermon: “The Great Debates”   

Scripture: Matthew 22:34-46

Dates to Remember

Oct 25: Wednesday Night Supper & Trunk or Treat @ 5:15

Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Breakfast

Oct 31: Halloween

Nov 4: Time Change (turn back your clocks before bed)

Nov 5: veterans Day Recognition

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

THANK YOU

Thank you so much for your recent donation to Meals on Wheels! Our seniors appreciate your continued love and compassion. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without donations like yours!

With much gratitude,

Community Action Agency NWAL

Meals on Wheels

Breast Cancer Awareness month.

If you would like to make a donation, you may place a check in the offering plate and in the for section put: Breast Cancer research. Please remember all those who have been diagnosed with Breast cancer, those in the fight now and those who have been in the past. Please consider donating in honor or memory of someone you know. All donations will go towards research. There are awareness items in the entryway hall for you.

October Outreach --  Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993 over 200 million children worldwide have received a box through Operation Christmas child. Of those children, 50 million have committed their lives to Christ!!

Below is a list of suggested items needed to fill the shoeboxes we will send to children through Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child. Please be sure to read the “Do NOT include list.” All items should be new.

A “WOW” ITEM:

Girls: • Doll • Large toy • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument

Boys: • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument • Large toy truck or car • Other large toy

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS: • Comb or brush • Toothbrush • Washcloth • Fun adhesive bandages • Eating utensils • Nail clipper and file

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: • Pencils and sharpener • Pencil case • Erasers • Pens • Crayons • Markers • Notebooks • Index cards • Calculator • Scissors • Ruler • Glue stick • Small adhesive tape

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES : • Clothing and undergarments • Flip-flops or shoes • Cold weather items • Sunglasses • Bags, backpacks, or purses • Hats • Wristwatch or jewelry • Flashlight • Hair accessories

CRAFTS & ACTIVITIES: • Puzzles • Binoculars • Compass • Chalkboard and chalk • Fishing kit • Jump rope • Coloring books or pads • Dry watercolor set • Playdough • Stickers • Craft kits or colorful rope/twine • Books or picture books

TOYS: • Ball • Frisbee® • Building blocks • Finger puppets • Slinky® • Yo-yo • Magnets • Kaleidoscope • Interactive toys • Other small toys and figures • Toy cars

DO NOT INCLUDE: • Food, candy, or gum • Toothpaste • Used or damaged items • Scary or war-related items • Wearable traditional camouflage • Seeds or organic matter • Liquids • Medication • Money • Breakable items • Matches, fire starters, or aerosols • Knife, saw, or razor blades

Prayer Requests

The family of Linda & Glenn Bevis, on the death of their daughter, Courtney Turner and her son, Nolan Turner.  Also remember Jesse Turner, father of Nolan and Ella. Courteny’s daughter Ella was injured and has a long road of recovery. This was the result of a horrific car accident in Lexington, TN, caused by a drunk driver.

The family of Eddie Joe Brackin of Florence who passed away on October 19. He was a friend of many in our church.

Paige Hix, friend if Claire McCamy, has a brain tumor.

Continued Prayers: Mark Sanders, Robert Crittenden, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Brian Davis, family member of (Grace, Tammy & Taylor), Dr. Scott Benefield, friend of The Carters,  Carl White, brother-in-law of Tonitia Butler Eddy Brackin, neighbor of The Futrell’s Sidney Goldstein, neighbor of Barry & Suzanne Morris, Burt Helton, Bill Huddleston, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Brian Davis, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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October 18, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The Imperfect Pastor (Like Little Ol’ Me, Cameron)

One day, technology may solve the problem of imperfect pastors. In fact, it may become a reality sooner than we think. This year, there was a major religious convention in Germany at which the sermon was delivered by a digital avatar powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

Every two years, there is a convention of Protestant clergy and lay people in Germany that attracts tens of thousands of people. At the convention this year, a theologian named Jonas Simmerlein used ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot, to craft a sermon on “leaving the past behind, focusing on the challenges of the present, overcoming fear of death, and never losing trust in Jesus Christ.” According to Simmerlein, the chatbot delivered “a pretty solid church service.”

One woman who attended the service was displeased, claiming “There was no heart and no soul.” A young Lutheran pastor who brought his youth group said he was “positively surprised how well it worked.” But he also said he missed any sense of emotion or spirituality.

Jonas Simmerlein, the theologian behind the chatbot pastor, says it’s not his intention to replace pastors, but to show them how to use technology to be more productive. For instance, he envisions a day when pastors regularly use artificial intelligence to help them write their sermons. Let me categorically state I, Cameron, DO NOT use AI to write my sermons.  Yeah, very funny, now I’m hearing you say maybe I should. Ha, ha, ha. 

Simmerlein doesn’t see technology replacing spiritual leaders anytime soon. As he said, “The pastor is in the congregation, she lives with them, she buries the people, she knows them from the beginning. Artificial intelligence cannot do that. It does not know the congregation.” (“Hundreds attend church service generated by ChatGPT” by Kirsten Grieshaber, KTLA.com June 10, 2023)

And I’d like to add one more concern to this list: artificial intelligence doesn’t know God. It doesn’t have the Spirit of God guiding and shaping it. No matter how well-organized or relevant its message might be, a chatbot has never wrestled with its faith. Does that matter? So long as it says the “right things” about God, does it matter if the chatbot has never experienced God? It does matter in my book! As imperfect as I am, I still wrestle with my faith and experience the living presence of God from the depth of my soul. As totally imperfect as I am, I am grateful to still be your Pastor. 

See you Sunday, Cameron

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Sermon: “Give to God What is God’s”       

Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22

*Breast Cancer Awareness month.

If you would like to make a donation, you may place a check in the offering plate and in the for section put: Breast Cancer research.

Please remember all those who have been diagnosed with Breast cancer, those in the fight now and those who have been in the past. Please consider donating in honor or memory of someone you know. All donations will go towards research. There are awareness items in the entryway hall for you.

Wednesday Night Supper

and

Trunk or Treat

October 25 at 5:15

**If you have not signed up to bring an item for the dinner or to provide candy/car for trunk or treat, please do today following worship. We do NOT want to cancel, but as of now, we do not have enough people signed up.

Dates to Remember

Oct 25: Wednesday Night Supper & Trunk or Treat @ 5:15

Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Breakfast

Oct 31: Halloween

Nov 4: Time Change (turn back your clocks before bed)

Nov 5: veterans Day Recognition

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

A Note from the Elders

Listed in this newsletter as well as posted on the bulletin board you will now find the Elders' Shepherding Lists, in case that you do not know who your primary elder is. Remember that the lists for Patsy Blasingame, Jeff Futrell, and Thomas Harrison will be reassigned come January 1st, as these three will roll off as elders.

Call me if you have questions. Thomas Harrison

M. H. Harper Library

 Thomas Harrison

In honor of her granddaughter, Samantha Marist, Ms. Arlene Burch has graciously donated a hardcover copy of That Printer of Udell's, a 1902 work of fiction by Harold Bell Wright. Ms. Arlene told me that this book has had a major impact in her life as a Christian. Harold Bell Wright served as a minister before becoming a writer, subsequently creating stories with Christian themes. In this novel, Dick Falkner, who comes from a broken home, sees his father under the influence of alcohol, while also witnessing that his mother is starving to death. After his parents die, Dick seeks employment in the Midwest town of Boyd City, with the belief that "Christians won't let me starve." A printer named George Udell does hire Dick,  and  ultimately both decide to become Christians. Dick becomes a revered member of the faith community due to his public speaking abilities and his sense of optimism.At the conclusion of the book, Dick obtains a political job in Washington, D.C.  At the age of 11, Ronald Reagan read this book, which had been given to him by his mother, a member of the  Disciples of Christ denomination. President Reagan indicated that the book inspired him to become a Christian, having been baptized at his mother's congregation. At age 66, Reagan stated that the book left in him "an abiding belief in the triumph of good over evil."

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

OCTOBER 25 - Starting at 5:00

The next Wednesday Night Supper will be October 25.

This will be a hot dog and burger cookout and will include our annual Trunk or Treat. The Trunk or Treat is an annual way for children to “trick or treat” safely out of the trunks of vehicles in our parking lot. Children do not have to be a member of FCC in order to Trunk or Treat - invite your grandchildren, your neighbor’s children, and your friends’ children and grandchildren. The more children the merrier and the more decorated the trunk the better and more fun for the children!

Decorations can be of a Halloween or Fall nature and candy and treats should be included to hand out. These treats should be individually wrapped, and store bought in order to ease the minds of parents.

You do not need to do a lot to decorate your trunk!  Some simple decorations, a friendly face,  and some candy for the kids to show your love for Christ and our community is all you need!!

Sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board for those who wish to participate in the Trunk or Treat portion of the evening and separate sign-up sheets for those who wish to bring sides and dessert to accompany the dogs and burgers. It should be a ghoulish good time!

They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity - Acts 2:46

October Outreach --  Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993 over 200 million children worldwide have received a box through Operation Christmas child. Of those children, 50 million have committed their lives to Christ!!

Below is a list of suggested items needed to fill the shoeboxes we will send to children through Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child. Please be sure to read the “Do NOT include list.” All items should be new.

A “WOW” ITEM:

Girls: • Doll • Large toy • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument

Boys: • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument • Large toy truck or car • Other large toy

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS: • Comb or brush • Toothbrush • Washcloth • Fun adhesive bandages • Eating utensils • Nail clipper and file

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: • Pencils and sharpener • Pencil case • Erasers • Pens • Crayons • Markers • Notebooks • Index cards • Calculator • Scissors • Ruler • Glue stick • Small adhesive tape

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES : • Clothing and undergarments • Flip-flops or shoes • Cold weather items • Sunglasses • Bags, backpacks, or purses • Hats • Wristwatch or jewelry • Flashlight • Hair accessories

CRAFTS & ACTIVITIES: • Puzzles • Binoculars • Compass • Chalkboard and chalk • Fishing kit • Jump rope • Coloring books or pads • Dry watercolor set • Playdough • Stickers • Craft kits or colorful rope/twine • Books or picture books

TOYS: • Ball • Frisbee® • Building blocks • Finger puppets • Slinky® • Yo-yo • Magnets • Kaleidoscope • Interactive toys • Other small toys and figures • Toy cars

DO NOT INCLUDE: • Food, candy, or gum • Toothpaste • Used or damaged items • Scary or war-related items • Wearable traditional camouflage • Seeds or organic matter • Liquids • Medication • Money • Breakable items • Matches, fire starters, or aerosols • Knife, saw, or razor blades.

Prayer Requests

Brian Davis, family member of Grace Simpson, Tammy Hendrix & Taylor Henderson has a recurrence of colon cancer and has begun treatment.

Continued Prayers: Mark Sanders, Robert Crittenden, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd

Friends and Family of First Christian: Dr. Scott Benefield, fried of The Carters,  Carl White, brother-in-law of Tonitia Butler Eddy Brackin, neighbor of The Futrell’s Sidney Goldstein, neighbor of Barry & Suzanne Morris, Burt Helton, Bill Huddleston, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Brian Davis, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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October 12, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Communication: The Key to Success

A friend of journalist David Halberstam was planning a visit to Japan. It would be his first visit, and he was a little anxious because he couldn’t speak Japanese. How would he communicate with the people he came in contact with?

Since most taxi drivers do not speak English, someone suggested that it might be a good idea to carry with him something bearing the name of the hotel at which he would be staying written in Japanese. That was exactly what he did. As soon as he arrived in Japan, he picked up a box of matches bearing the name and address of his hotel. Then he went sight-seeing.

Afterwards he got into a taxi and did as the friend suggested, he took the box of matches out of his pocket to show the driver where he wanted to go. There were a few awkward moments before the driver understood. Finally, his face lit up. Quickly they sped away. Half an hour later, the taxi came to a screeching halt. The driver turned and beamed at his passenger, pointing out the window. There was only one problem. They had stopped, not in front of a hotel, but a match factory! (Maxie Dunnam, “Pack up Your Troubles” Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1993, pp. 54-55)

Have you ever had an experience like that? Someone will say something and for whatever reason you do not understand. It’s as if they were speaking a foreign language. You want to go back to the hotel and instead find yourself in front of a match factory. It sort of reminds me of the frustration Jesus must have had with the chief priest and Pharisees of the Temple. Getting his point across was trying to say the least. 

Hopefully for us, I believe, Jesus has made it clear what he/God expects and we need to take heed. Let’s read the scriptures (the match box) and end up at the hotel (the Kingdom of God) and not at the factory (wrong place). 

See you (at the right place) Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Sermon: “Dressed for Dinner”       

Scripture: Matthew 22:1-14

Fire Fighter’s Luncheon

Thursday, October 19, 11am – 1pm

First Christian Church annually honors the Florence Fire Department during the month of October. This year the luncheon will take place on Thursday, October 19. We will need 5 9x13 cakes, unsliced, and 6 volunteers to help to set up, serve, and clean-up. Please sign up for either or both, the list in on the bulletin board.  Thank you for your help! Marsha Carter

Breast Cancer Awareness month.

If you would like to make a donation, you may place a check in the offering plate and in the for section put: Breast Cancer research.

Please remember all those who have been diagnosed with Breast cancer, those in the fight now and those who have been in the past. Please consider donating in honor or memory of someone you know. All donations will go towards research. There are awareness items in the entryway hall for you.

October Outreach --  Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993 over 200 million children worldwide have received a box through Operation Christmas child. Of those children, 50 million have committed their lives to Christ!!

Below is a list of suggested items needed to fill the shoeboxes we will send to children through Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child. Please be sure to read the “Do NOT include list.” All items should be new.

A “WOW” ITEM:

Girls: • Doll • Large toy • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument

Boys: • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument • Large toy truck or car • Other large toy

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS: • Comb or brush • Toothbrush • Washcloth • Fun adhesive bandages • Eating utensils • Nail clipper and file

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: • Pencils and sharpener • Pencil case • Erasers • Pens • Crayons • Markers • Notebooks • Index cards • Calculator • Scissors • Ruler • Glue stick • Small adhesive tape

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES : • Clothing and undergarments • Flip-flops or shoes • Cold weather items • Sunglasses • Bags, backpacks, or purses • Hats • Wristwatch or jewelry • Flashlight • Hair accessories

CRAFTS & ACTIVITIES: • Puzzles • Binoculars • Compass • Chalkboard and chalk • Fishing kit • Jump rope • Coloring books or pads • Dry watercolor set • Playdough • Stickers • Craft kits or colorful rope/twine • Books or picture books

TOYS: • Ball • Frisbee® • Building blocks • Finger puppets • Slinky® • Yo-yo • Magnets • Kaleidoscope • Interactive toys • Other small toys and figures • Toy cars

DO NOT INCLUDE: • Food, candy, or gum • Toothpaste • Used or damaged items • Scary or war-related items • Wearable traditional camouflage • Seeds or organic matter • Liquids • Medication • Money • Breakable items • Matches, fire starters, or aerosols • Knife, saw, or razor blades

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

OCTOBER 25 - Starting at 5:00

The next Wednesday Night Supper will be October 25.

This will be a hot dog and burger cookout and will include our annual Trunk or Treat. The Trunk or Treat is an annual way for children to “trick or treat” safely out of the trunks of vehicles in our parking lot. Children do not have to be a member of FCC in order to Trunk or Treat - invite your grandchildren, your neighbor’s children, and your friends’ children and grandchildren. The more children the merrier and the more decorated the trunk the better and more fun for the children!

Decorations can be of a Halloween or Fall nature and candy and treats should be included to hand out. These treats should be individually wrapped, and store bought in order to ease the minds of parents.

You do not need to do a lot to decorate your trunk!  Some simple decorations, a friendly face,  and some candy for the kids to show your love for Christ and our community is all you need!!

Sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board for those who wish to participate in the Trunk or Treat portion of the evening and separate sign-up sheets for those who wish to bring sides and dessert to accompany the dogs and burgers. It should be a ghoulish good time!

They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity - Acts 2:46

Dates to Remember

Oct 15: There will be a quick called Board meeting in the Library following worship today.

Oct 16: Bosses Day

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon @ Champy’s on 2nd St, Muscle Shoals

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon at FCC 11am – 1 pm

Oct 25: Wednesday Night Supper & Trunk or Treat @ 5:15

Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Breakfast

Oct 31: Halloween

Nov 4: Time Change (turn back your clocks before bed)

Nov 5: veterans Day Recognition

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

Prayer Requests

Eddy Brackin, neighbor of The Futrell’s, had a heart attack and is in ICU at NAMC.

Sidney Goldstein, neighbor of Barry & Suzanne Morris, left this week for Israel to serve in the army. He has 4 children and 9 grandchildren there presently. Your prayers for his & his family’s safety are appreciated.

Carl White, brother-in-law of Tonitia Butler & son-in-law of Kenneth & Barbara Butler, is recovering from a stroke.

Laura Hutchenson’s mother suffered a heart attack. She is in Birmingham.

Dr. Scott Benefield, from Lawrenceburg, victim of a hit and run in August, while cycling. He is in need of Prayer. He is a friend of one of Bob Carters employees.

Brian Davis, of Blue Ridge Texas, (family of Grace Simpson, Tammy Hendrix, and Taylor Henderson), had a port placed and began chemo for colon cancer.

Continued Prayers: Mark Sanders, Robert Crittenden, Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Burt Helton, Bill Huddleston, Tia Davis, Mary McCluskey, Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale, Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver, Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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Pastor Cameron’s Corner

What Anger Leaves Behind

There was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.

The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.

Finally, the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there."

The little boy then understood how powerful his words were. He looked up at his father and said, "I hope you can forgive me father for the holes I put in you."

"Of course, I can," said the father.

It's not always anger; it is your actions in general. There are no "fresh starts" in life. There is no new beginning. Forgiveness comes easy for many people but the scars of the past, they never go away. Watch what you do today, because sometimes the price isn't worth the reward (or more explicitly stated: what you gain through your anger isn't worth the damage left behind).          

See You Sunday, Pastor Cameron       

Sunday, October 8, 2023

Sermon: “God’s Quality Control Crew”

Scripture: Matthew 21:33-46

Reverend Cameron Douglas

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Sunday October 1, 2023 - World Communion Sunday

Fire Fighter’s Luncheon

Thursday, October 19, 11am – 1pm

First Christian Church annually honors the Florence Fire Department during the month of October. This year the luncheon will take place on Thursday, October 19. We will need 5 9x13 cakes, unsliced, and 6 volunteers to help to set up, serve, and clean-up. Please sign up for either or both, the list in on the bulletin board.  Thank you for your help! Marsha Carter

Disciples Women’s Fall Retreat News

From the Regional Email this week:

The Disciples Women's Fall Retreat was held September 8-10 at the 4-H center in Columbiana. 30 women participated. We studied God's Wonderful World, fellowshipped with one another, made blankets as a service project, raised money through a silent auction, did crafts, played games, and enjoyed delicious meals and snacks. We had a wonderful time!*If you would like to learn more about becoming a part of The Disciples Womens group, Please talk to Tonitia Butler.

Update

Your prayers have been so helpful! Twin nieces of Leon and Lana Nale that you have been praying for are doing great. Below they are pictured with their big sister. Look how cute!! The twins are now 3 months old!      Collins, Arleigh, Callie

Dance Showcase-Once Upon A time

If your Saturday night is free, Dare 2 Dance is presenting another Showcase at The Ritz, October 7, at 6:00 p.m. There will be a wide range of music & dances and we will be dancing our hearts out. ~ Suzanne & Barry Morris

Dates to Remember

Oct 1: World Communion Sunday

Oct 8: Pastor Appreciation Sunday

Oct 8: Dare to Care

Oct 9: Columbus Day – Office Closed

Oct 10: Board work session at 5:30 pm, in the Fellowship Hall.

Oct 16: Bosses Day

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon @ Champy’s on 2nd St. in Muscle  Shoals

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon - 11am – 1 pm

Oct 25: Wednesday Night Supper & Trunk or Treat @ 5:15

Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Breakfast –No Sunday school this morning.

Oct 31: Halloween

Nov 4: Time Change (turn back your clocks before bed)

Nov 5: veterans Day Recognition

Nov 19:  Thanksgiving & Stewardship Luncheon.

Nov. 22-24: Thanksgiving Holidays. Office Closed.

M. H. Harper Library - Thomas Harrison

In honor of Kay Stegall, a gift presented to the library has been used to add Stormie Omartian's book, The Prayer That Changes Everything, to our library. Stormie Omartian is a bestselling author who has assisted millions of folks in developing a more-powerful prayer life, and with this book she attempts to inspire us to open our lives to the prayer that changes everything, that is, the prayer of praise toward God. If one looks to the Lord's Prayer, it opens with the words, "...hallowed be Thy Name," with hallowed meaning that He is sanctified, consecrated, holy. Omartian reminds the reader that our intimate conversations with God often focus on our immediate needs, concern for others, and direction regarding His will, while praise requires believers to look beyond themselves and their circumstances and place their attention solely on God. Omartian shares personal stories, biblical truths, and practical guiding-principles to reveal the wonderous things that take place when we offer praise in the midst of our difficult circumstances, sorrows, and fears, as well as our abundances and joys.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

OCTOBER 25 - Starting at 5:00

 B.I.N.G.O.!!! If you were unable to attend September’s Wednesday Night Brown Bag & Bingo Supper, you missed the most incredible time! We ate, we laughed, we played BINGO, we raised money for the Operation Christmas Child Project, we learned more about this worldwide project and how it spreads the Word and enjoyed the love of each other all in the spirit of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ! Thank you to those who prepared and brought desserts: Gloria Aday, Arlene Burch, Judy Goode, Amy McCorkle, & Kay Stegall!

The next Wednesday Night Supper will be October 25.

This will be a hot dog and burger cookout and will include our annual Trunk or Treat. The Trunk or Treat is an annual way for children to “trick or treat” safely out of the trunks of vehicles in our parking lot. Children do not have to be a member of FCC in order to Trunk or Treat - invite your grandchildren, your neighbor’s children, and your friends’ children and grandchildren. The more children the merrier and the more decorated the trunk the better and more fun for the children!

Decorations can be of a Halloween or Fall nature and candy and treats should be included to hand out. These treats should be individually wrapped, and store bought in order to ease the minds of parents.

You do not have to go all out to decorate your trunk!  Some simple decorations, a friendly face,  and some candy for the kids to show your love for Christ and our community is all you need!!

Sign-up sheets will be on the bulletin board for those who wish to participate in the Trunk or Treat portion of the evening and separate sign-up sheets for those who wish to bring sides and dessert to accompany the dogs and burgers. It should be a ghoulish good time!

They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity - Acts 2:46

*Breast Cancer Awareness month.

We are also taking donations for research. If you would like to make a donation, you may place a check in the offering plate and in the for section put: Breast Cancer research.

Please remember all those who have been diagnosed with Breast cancer, those in the fight now and those who have been in the past. Please consider donating in honor or memory of someone you know. All donations will go towards research. There are awareness items in the entryway hall for you.

October Outreach --  Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993 over 200 million children worldwide have received a box through Operation Christmas child. Of those children, 50 million have committed their lives to Christ!!

Below is a list of suggested items needed to fill the shoeboxes we will send to children through Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child. Please be sure to read the “Do NOT include list.” All items should be new.

A “WOW” ITEM:

Girls: • Doll • Large toy • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument

Boys: • Soccer ball and pump • Stuffed animal • Musical instrument • Large toy truck or car • Other large toy

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS: • Comb or brush • Toothbrush • Washcloth • Fun adhesive bandages • Eating utensils • Nail clipper and file

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: • Pencils and sharpener • Pencil case • Erasers • Pens • Crayons • Markers • Notebooks • Index cards • Calculator • Scissors • Ruler • Glue stick • Small adhesive tape

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES : • Clothing and undergarments • Flip-flops or shoes • Cold weather items • Sunglasses • Bags, backpacks, or purses • Hats • Wristwatch or jewelry • Flashlight • Hair accessories

CRAFTS & ACTIVITIES: • Puzzles • Binoculars • Compass • Chalkboard and chalk • Fishing kit • Jump rope • Coloring books or pads • Dry watercolor set • Playdough • Stickers • Craft kits or colorful rope/twine • Books or picture books

TOYS: • Ball • Frisbee® • Building blocks • Finger puppets • Slinky® • Yo-yo • Magnets • Kaleidoscope • Interactive toys • Other small toys and figures • Toy cars

DO NOT INCLUDE: • Food, candy, or gum • Toothpaste • Used or damaged items • Scary or war-related items • Wearable traditional camouflage • Seeds or organic matter • Liquids • Medication • Money • Breakable items • Matches, fire starters, or aerosols • Knife, saw, or razor blades

Outreach News for October

First Christian Outreach opportunities are in abundance this fall!

Saturday, September 30, FCC fed the homeless through the Soup Kitchen at First Presbyterian Church. Over 100 meals were served either through those who came to FPC or those home bound who had meals delivered. A huge shout out to Carol Hill for heading up the Soup Kitchen this past month and to those who helped with preparations, plating/ boxing up, serving, and clean up! Also, a thank you to the dessert bakers! The next Soup Kitchen opportunity will be Saturday, December 30.

******************************

During the month of October there are numerous ways you can help with Outreach. On October 19, we will host the Florence Fire Department with our annual Firefighters Luncheon. We will need some cake bakers and a few volunteers to help setup, serve, and cleanup. Signup sheets will be located in the hallway on the bulletin board.

****************************

During the entire month of October and into the first week of November, FCC will be collecting children’s toys, personal necessities, and educational gifts for the Operation Christmas Child Box Outreach. Our goal is to pack 50 boxes this year for children of all ages. Your help in purchasing items is greatly needed and appreciated. There are lists of ideas for you to take with you for each age group and boy/girl needs. In addition, it costs $10/box to ship to the over 100 countries that receive these boxes. The Bingo Wednesday Night Supper helped us raise enough funds to ship at least 35 boxes. Monetary donations are appreciated for shipping and extra items needed to fill the 50 boxes. By the way, a trip to the Dollar Store will meet the majority of the items on the lists!

******************************

Lastly, the month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is not a female only disease. Men can be affected by this disease too. Did you know, according to the CDC, that each year in the United States, 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,100 in men? Check out the display showing the ways you can help raise awareness about the most common cancer (outside of skin cancer) in the United States.

********************************

Activities Director ~ Marsha Carter

He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. - TITUS 2:14

Wednesday Night Supper &

B I N G O

For

Operation Christmas Child Kick-off

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Weekly Disciple Visitor

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

September 27, 2023

Reconciliation

God is like the father in the parable of the prodigal son, who patiently waits for his son, never giving up hope that he will one day return. There is nothing that cannot be forgiven, nothing that cannot be overcome by God's love. A dramatic example of this is the drama played out in chapter 21 of John's gospel. We recall in the early morning hours of Good Friday Peter fulfilled the prophecy that Jesus had articulated at the Last Supper only a few hours earlier. After denying the Lord three times he was devastated and wept bitterly (Luke 22:62). He realized he'd betrayed his best friend. 

After the resurrection, Jesus allowed his chosen chief disciple to redeem his earlier denials for three affirmations of love. John wrote that Jesus asked Peter if he loved him three times. When Peter responded in the affirmative each time, Peter understood Jesus' reason for asking and how reconciliation was in a very real way affected at that moment. Even if we deny the Lord, Jesus will welcome us back with open arms.

As God has been merciful and compassionate toward us, we must be merciful and compassionate to each other. People make mistakes; it is part of being human. Thus, sometimes we will hurt or offend others and others will hurt us. We must move beyond this initial step, admit our mistakes, the errors of our way, our sins, and then we can begin to move forward. 

We cannot live in the past. Holding a grudge against others keeps them at a distance for no logical reason. Can any of us imagine if God acted in such a way with any of us? What would we do if we felt that God was selective in his forgiveness and reconciliation? God's message of love and reconciliation goes out to all people for all times. If we are to be followers of Jesus, then our attitude and actions must emulate what he has taught us. We should never follow the example of the elder boy in the prodigal son story. He held a grudge against his brother and, it seems, his father as well. On the contrary, reconciliation is necessary not only to create harmony, but also to allow us to grow so we can be the people Lord calls us and wants us to be.

From a sermon by Richard Gribble

See You Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, October 1, 2023

Sermon: “Walk the Talk”

Scripture: Matthew 21:28-32

Reverend Cameron Douglas

September Outreach

You may still donate towards our September outreach:  Childhood Cancer Research. A donation will be made to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Organization, who provides funding for research for childhood cancers. If you would like to donate, note on your check Sept outreach or cancer research.

October Outreach

For the month of October, we will focus on two outreach groups:

*Operation Christmas Child

Please see the list on the bulletin board regarding items needed to fill the shoeboxes we will send

to children through Samaritans Purse and Operation Christmas Child.

*Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Please remember all those who have been diagnosed with Breast cancer, those in the fight now and those who have been in the past. Please consider donating in honor or memory of someone you know. All donations will go towards research.

Thank You

Dear Church and Hospitality Staff,

Thank you for the beautiful and thoughtful reception you prepared for my sister, Loraine Banning’s memorial service. You were all so welcoming and gracious, and the food was delicious and comforting. Our entire family is incredibly grateful to the church and each of you for everything done for her service and the reception.  

Yours, Leon Spies

Volunteers Needed

Please consider volunteering to be a driver for those in our church who may need a ride. Sometimes it is a ride to church service on Sunday mornings, or maybe a ride to a function we may be having in the evening. We don’t want those who are not able to drive themselves to miss out on anything. If we have enough people sign up, then we can divide up the days more evenly for when needed.

Dates to Remember

Sept. 27: Wednesday Night Supper

Sept. 30: Soup Kitchen

October

Oct 1: World Communion Sunday

Oct 8: Pastor Appreciation Sunday

Oct 9: Columbus Day – Office Closed

Oct 10: Board work session at 5:30 pm, in the Fellowship Hall.

Oct 16: Bosses Day

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon @ Champy’s

                 2nd St. in Muscle Shoals

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon at FCC 11am – 1 pm

Oct 25: Wednesday Night Supper & Trunk or Treat @ 5:15

Oct 29: Fifth Sunday Breakfast

Oct 31: Halloween

Celebrations!

We want to share your celebrations! Want to brag on your family, your accomplishments? Send a photo with the information to the church email address so we may share in the newsletter! firstchristianflorence@outlook.com

Board Work Session

The Board will have a work session on the constitutional amendment on Tuesday, October 10, at 5:30 pm, in the Fellowship Hall.

Information

Listed below are the First Christian Church currently serving Board Officers, Elders, Diaconate, Committee Chairs and Trustees, if you should need to contact anyone. 

Volunter

If you would like to volunteer on one of the listed committees, please contact that committee chair. Volunteers are always needed and appreciated!

Board Officers

October 2023- December 2024

Board Chair               Bill Davis                  

1st Chair                     Barry Morris            

2nd Chair                  James McCorkle     

Treasurer                  Tracy Futrell            

Secretary                   Carol Hill      

Committee’s and Current Chairs

Christian Ed.                         Patsy Blasingame   

Children/Youth                   Jessica Johnson      

Outreach                               Marsha Carter        

Diaconate Chair                   Bob Carter                

Diaconate Vice-chair          Terry McGee            

Membership Care                Suzanne Morris     

Personnel Head                   Lynne Davis             

Property                                Leon Nale                 

Property                                Bill Davis                 

Stewardship                          Barry Morris        

Worship                                 Tonitia Butler

Diaconate Terms

Head Deacon: Bob Carter

******* 

Tony Cox

Bill Davis

Jessica Johnson

(Serving through 12/31/2023)

******* 

Larry Bates

Bob Carter

Marsha Carter

Amy Lovelace

Mark Sanders

Garry Watson

(Serving through 12/31/2024)

*******

Dick Burch

Arlene Burch

Wayne Schumann

Iris Schumann

Diane Martin

Russ Darracott

Missy Bates

Sarah Cox

(Serving through 12/31/2025)

*******

Junior Diaconate

Coby Futrell

Morgan Johnson

Annie Champagne

Ella Coussons

Current Elders

Patsy Blasingame   

Jeff Futrell               

Thomas Harrison   

(Serving until 12/31/2023)

********

Tonitia Butler          

Doug Evans             

Judy Goode              

(Serving until 12/31/2024)

********

Suzanne Morris      

Barry Morris            

Pam Watson            

(Serving through 12/31/2025)

Trustees

Carol Hill - Term ends 12/31/23

Leon Nale - Term ends 12/31/24

Bob Carter - Term ends 12/31/25

Fire Fighter’s Luncheon

Thursday, October 19 11am – 1pm

First Christian Church annually honors the Florence Fire Department during the month of October. This year the luncheon will take place on Thursday, October 19. We will need 5 9x13 cakes, unsliced, and 6 volunteers to help to set up, serve, and clean-up. Please sign up for either or both, the list in on the bulletin board.  Thank you for your help! Marsha Carter

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

On Sunday, Pastor Cameron referred in his sermon to the life of St. Francis, a man from a family of wealth who gave up everything in service to God and mankind. We thanks to a gift given in honor of Sid Fulford, The Road to Assisi: The Essential Biography of St. Francis by Paul Sabatier, has been added to our library. Originally published in French in 1894, Sabatier’s was the first modern biography of St. Francis of Assisi, and it was a worldwide bestseller. This 2003 edition was published with annotations by Jon M. Sweeney, an author who is editor-in-chief of Skylight Paths Publishing. Chapters within this biography address Francis' youth and his family, the stages of his conversion, Francis' relationship with Sister Clare, the specifics leading to his sainthood, and the last day of his life, among other facts and events. "Sabatier's 19th-century biography still reads like the classic it is." Mark Galli, Author of Francis, and His World.

Kitchen Dishes & Containers

The Kitchen has undergone a Fall Cleaning this week and in doing so—we have laid out numerous unclaimed dishes that are on a table in the Fellowship Hall. These items have been in the Kitchen for over a year now. Please go by and see if any of these items belong to you as we simply do not have the room to store them. We will keep these items out until October 9th and anything unclaimed will be donated to The Help Center as they can be used by those in need. Thanks so much in helping us keep the Kitchen storage area uncluttered. ~The Membership Committee

Sympathy

Christie Snodgrass McKinnon, of Florence, passed away on September 20. Christie was a friend of the families of Grace Simpson and Tammy Hendrix.

Shylee Bradford Bevis, who passed away on September 23 after a short battle with cancer. Please keep all her family in your prayers. Shylee was a friend of many in the Shoals.

Harold Moore, 96-year-old brother of Bobby Moore, passed away on September 24. Mr. Moore lived in Nashville, TN. Please keep all the family in your prayers.

Prayer Requests

Continued Prayers:

Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey,

Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley,

Bill Coussons, George Pinkston,

June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian:

Wanda Johnson, Jerry Trousdale,

Paige Hines, Kathy Vandiver,

Barbara Sharp, Audrey Hubbard,

James Smith, Jerome Glaister,

Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pastor Camerons Corner

September 20, 2023

Forgiveness

I copied the following from a sermon I read about forgiveness. Rev. Lori Wagner entitled her sermon “Avoiding the ‘F’ Word”:

“For many of us, forgiveness feels like the last thing we want to do. We feel bitter. We don’t want to let someone off the hook for causing us terrible pain, loss, grief, or harm. In fact, the very idea of bestowing forgiveness often can make us feel even more angry. How dare someone even suggest that we forgive this terrible person! How can someone suggest that we merely forgive someone who has perhaps caused us a lifetime in therapy or a deeply seated grief or loss? How can anyone expect us to show grace to someone who has harmed us or someone we love? Indignantly, we harbor even more resentment, we keep fueling our anger, we resolve never to let this go. In this case, however, avoidance is the worst thing we can do –for the truth about the “F” word is this: forgiveness is not about giving others a pass, but about caring for ourselves.

“The “F” word is a way of helping us in the process of letting go.

“Why would we want to do that, we say. Why would we want to let go of an anger that feels justified and like a rightful punishment toward someone who has harmed us?

“The simple answer is this: Because anger and resentment are like an infiltrative, insidious brain-eating amoeba that seeps not only into your emotional life but into your physical health. Letting anger and resentment continue to take its course in your life will gradually eat away at your peace, your emotional health, your physical well-being, and your closest relationships, and it may eventually kill you.

“Harboring and sustaining anger within your mind and body is like sentencing yourself to your own living hell. It’s a form of self-torture, a leprosy of the soul. Grudge holding will eat you whole and affect you in every aspect of your life, if you let it fester.”

See You Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Sermon: “Measured Salvation”   

Scripture: Matthew 20:1-16

Reverend Cameron Douglas

What do Shoeboxes, Brown Bags,

& Bingo have in common? 

For over 30 years, Samaritan Purse, has reached over two hundred million children all over the world with the gift of Christmas in a shoebox and the gospel of Jesus Christ!  First Christian Church has had the privilege to participate in this Christ-sharing project each fall for the past few years and look forward to continuing the tradition!

On Wednesday Night, September 27, 5:15 - until,

FCC will kick off the Operation Christmas Child (OCC) collection campaign with a

Brown Bag Supper and All-Church Bingo Night.  Bingo cards will be sold for

$1.00 each and the money collected will be used to offset the costs of shipping the

shoeboxes.  The more Bingo Cards you purchase the more money for OCC and more

opportunities for you to win prizes!

Please bring your own snack supper - drinks, desserts, and paper

products will be provided.  Five volunteers are needed to make

dessert for the evening. Small items for the prize table are also welcome!

Volunteers Needed

Please consider volunteering to be a driver for those in our church who may need a ride. Sometimes it is a ride to church service on Sunday mornings, or maybe a ride to a function we may be having in the evening. We don’t want those who are not able to drive themselves to miss out on anything. If we have enough people sign up, then we can divide up the days more evenly for when needed.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Maggie Owens, granddaughter of Carol & John Sutherland. Maggie was crowned Homecoming Queen for Shoals Christian School on Friday, August 15.

Emme Sanders, granddaughter of Suzanne & Barry Morris was also on the Homecoming Court! Congratulations to both girls!

Homecoming 2023

Myla Sanders, ready for Homecoming at Shoals Christian School on August 15. Myla isthe granddaughter of Suzanne & Barry Morris.

Dates to Remember

Sept. 24: Reconciliation offering

Sept. 27: Wednesday Night Supper

Sept. 30: Soup Kitchen

October 9: Columbus Day – Office Closed

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon at FCC

Oct 31: Halloween

September Outreach

Our September outreach is Childhood Cancer Research. A donation will be made to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Organization, who provides funding for research for childhood cancers. If you would like to donate, note on your check Sept outreach or cancer research. 

**If you would like to read more about what Alex’s Lemonade Stand does for pediatric childhood cancer research, you can go to

 https://www.alexslemonade.org/

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation funded research and treatment that Taylor (Hendrix) Henderson had. Please consider supporting

pediatric cancer research funding, in honor of Taylor and all those children who are or have fought this battle, it makes a difference!

We are reinstating children’s moment and children’s church during Worship service, starting Sunday, September 10th!We are looking for 2 volunteers each Sunday to give our young folks a quick lesson/ activity for approx. 30 minutes. Please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board, if you feel led to teach these enthusiastic young children!  Thanks!

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

Round Robin, from Jennifer Chiaverini's Elm Creek Quilters series, is essentially a story of friendship and loyalty. The quilter friends have begun a Round Robin quilt,  a type of quilt so named because it is stitched by many hands, each taking a section. The quilt is created by sewing concentric patchwork borders around a central block, and this particular quilt is intended as a gift for the quilters' beloved fellow quilter, Sylvia Compson. Yet, as the quilt is passed from friend to friend and its beauty increases stitch-by-stitch, each contributor experiences a personal crisis, a painful truth, or a life-changing choice. The quilt becomes symbolic of the complex and enduring bonds between sisters, friends, mothers, and daughters, and even husbands and wives. This story displays how good intentions can run awry, how feelings can become unintentionally bruised, and how one often cannot know what is best for someone else. Having read a couple of Chiaverini's stand-alone novels, I was curious as to how a book from her series might read, and I found it surprisingly authentic and entertaining.

Pre-School

Guess who started Pre-school! Wallace has started pre-school part time at Kings Kids while Taylor is working.  

Celebrations!

We want to share your celebrations! Want to brag on your family, your accomplishments? Send a photo with the information to the church email address so we may share in the newsletter!

firstchristianflorence@outlook.com

Outreach Organizations

Below is a list of the Outreach organizations we will be supporting for the next year. First Christian supports many local organizations as well as a few national organizations. We are proud of our church and all your continued support! Thank you!

·         All Saints Ministry through UNA (We are one of 7 supporting churches in the Florence area)

·         ARC of the Shoals

·         Breast cancer awareness

·         Childhood cancer awareness (Alex’s Lemonade stand foundation)

·         Empty Medicine Bottle drive: La Clinica Cristiana, Inc.

·         Firefighters Luncheon (Feed the firefighters and support personnel)

·         First Christian Discretionary fund

·         Fox G1

·         Healing Place

·         Help Center

·         Law Enforcement Luncheon (Feed Law enforcement officers and support personnel)

·         Meals on Wheels

·         Operation Christmas Child (pack gift boxes to send worldwide)

·         Pop Tab drive: Ronald McDonal House Charities

·         Safe Place

·         Soup Kitchen (Each month that has a 5th Saturday)

·         Sydney’s Safe Foundation

·         Shoals Christian Football Team (feed the team before one football game in the fall)

·         VOAD of NWAL: Our church is a supporting member that helps during natural disasters.

·         Week of Compassion (We support various areas with WOC, including when there are natural disasters)

PRAYER REQUESTS

Sympathy is extended to Faye and Mark Sanders and Kaye Fleming and family on the death of their Aunt, Marcy Davis. Ms. Davis passed away on Friday, September 15. A memorial service will be held at a later date.   

PRAYERS:

Wanda Johnston, friend of Thomas Harrison, fell and fractured 2 vertebrae.

Jerry Trousdale, former member, (father of Heath) has had some recent health issues.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Paige Hines, Mark Miller, Kaye Thomas, Tia Davis, Kathy Vandiver, Geri Stout, Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

——————————————————————————————————————————————————-

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Costly Grace

I believe one of the more influential Christian books of the twentieth century is Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s The Cost of Discipleship. He died in a Nazi concentration camp shortly before the end of the war in Europe.

In his book Bonhoeffer distinguishes between Cheap Grace and Costly  Grace. “Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ living and incarnate. 

“Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all  his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him. Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock. 

“Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: ‘ye were bought at a price,’ and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.”

Slowly read that again phrase by phrase, think about it and let it sink in. 

See You Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Sermon: “Submit to One Another”

Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21

Board Meeting

Sunday, September 17

Following worship

Dates to Remember

Sept. 17: Board Meeting

September 19: Ladies Luncheon @ Taco Mamas on South Cherry Street. 11:15 am.

Sept. 24: Reconciliation offering

Sept. 27: Wednesday Night Supper

Sept. 30: Soup Kitchen

October 9: Columbus Day – Office Closed

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon at FCC

Oct 31: Halloween

Children’s Church volunteers needed!

We are reinstating children’s moment and children’s church during Worship service, starting Sunday, September 10th!
We are looking for 2 volunteers each Sunday to give our young folks a quick lesson/ activity for approx. 30 minutes.
Please see the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board, if you feel led to teach these enthusiastic young children!  Thanks!

SEPTEMBER OUTREACH CHILDHOOD CANCER RESEARCH

Our September outreach is Childhood Cancer Research. A donation will be made to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Organization, who provides funding for research for childhood cancers. If you would like to donate, note on your check Sept outreach or cancer research. 

**If you would like to read more about what Alex’s Lemonade Stand does for pediatric childhood cancer research, you can go to

 https://www.alexslemonade.org/

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation funded research and treatment that Taylor (Hendrix) Henderson had. Please consider supporting

pediatric cancer research funding, in honor of Taylor and all those children who are or have fought this battle, it makes a difference!

~~Tammy Hendrix  Research helps!

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

The Big Question: Why We Can’t Stop Talking About Science, Faith, and God, by renowned Oxford scientist and religious scholar Alister McGrath, challenges the dogmatism of Richard Dawkins and others, giving the reader the thinking-person's guide to the intriguing relationship between science and faith. McGrath's book is "an accessible, engaging account of how science relates to faith, showing how both can be interwoven to give a rich vision of life." Among his points of discussion is whether one's belief in God and one's search for meaning are too "hardwired" to dismiss science, and also whether science's reliance on what is observed means that there is "nothing beyond the scientific world." McGrath confronts the belief of the New Atheists that science has disproven both God and the value of religion. (Quotes are taken from the book's dust jacket.)

What do Shoeboxes, Brown Bags,

& Bingo have in common?

For over 30 years, Samaritan Purse, has reached over two hundred million children all over the world with the gift of Christmas in a shoebox and the gospel of Jesus Christ!  First Christian Church has had the privilege to participate in this Christ-sharing project each fall for the past few years and look forward to continuing the tradition!

On Wednesday Night, September 27, 5:15 - until,

FCC will kick off the

Operation Christmas Child (OCC) collection campaign with a

Brown Bag Supper and All-Church Bingo Night.  Bingo cards will be sold for $1.00 each and the money collected will be used to offset the costs of shipping the shoeboxes.  The more Bingo Cards you purchase the more money for OCC and more opportunities for you to win prizes!

Please bring your own snack supper - drinks, desserts, and

paper products will be provided.  Five volunteers are needed to

make dessert for the evening.

Small items for the prize table are also welcome!

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED

Please consider volunteering to be a driver for those in our church who may need a ride. Sometimes it is a ride to church service on Sunday mornings, or maybe a ride to a function we may be having in the evening. We don’t want those who are not able to drive themselves to miss out on anything. If we have enough people sign up, then we can divide up the days more evenly for when needed.

PRAYERS

Marcy Davis, aunt of Faye Sanders and Kaye Fleming, is in Glenwood and not doing well. The family would appreciate your prayers at this time.

Jerry Trousdale, former member, (father of Heath) has had some recent health issues. He would appreciate hearing from his FCC friends. Mailing address: 123 Harrington Lane, Killen, 35645

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Paige Hines, Mark Miller, Kaye Thomas, Tia Davis, Kathy Vandiver, Geri Stout, Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————-———-

Who do you say that I am?

Have you ever had an experience that changed your life completely? You can’t not see it or erase it from memory or thought. It is so profound that it shaped your life never to be the same again. A mountain climber said,  "Once you have experienced the peak, your life is never the same."

Friends, once you have come to the point that you truly can echo the words of Peter: “You are the Christ the son of the living God,” your life will never be the same. It is one of those peak experiences. Ask the woman at the well, ask Mary Magdeline, ask Paul, ask Martin Luther, ask Billy Graham, ask somebody in OUR church. 

Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Discover the answer to that and you discover the answer to life. Indeed, daily you answer that question by how you live, and you will live eternally through the consequences of your daily answer. 

Diane and I will be away on Labor Day weekend and Sid Fulford will fill our pulpit this Sunday, September 3. Blessings to you,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Sermon: “The Tarnished Image” – Sid Fulford Preaching

Scripture: Genesis 1:26-31 & Galatians 5:17-21

Follow-Up

It wasn’t long ago that I challenged our congregation to contribute to the Annual Fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Alabama Northwest Florida (and Meridian, MS). You will recall the Annual Fund is vital for the well-being and future of the Regional Church’s ministry and outreach. Generously you gave $700, so I matched it (then a week later we received an additional gift of $30), and FCC Florence was credited with a total contribution of $1,430. Just thought you’d like to know. Pastor Cameron

Dates to Remember

Sept. 4: Church office closed – Labor day

Sept. 8 & 9: The Oka Kapassa Festival – Spring Park.

Sept. 17: Board Meeting

September 19: Ladies Luncheon @ Taco Mamas on South Cherry Street. 11:15 am.

Sept. 24: Reconciliation offering

Sept. 27: Wednesday Night Supper

Sept. 30: Soup Kitchen

October 9: Columbus Day – Office Closed

Oct 17: Women’s Luncheon

Oct 19: Fire Fighters Luncheon at FCC

Oct 31: Halloween

SYMPATHY

Our sympathy is extended to Deryll, Katharine, Jeff and all the family, on the passing of Lorraine on August 27. Lorraine will be missed by all of her First Christian Family. Prayers for the family.

 The Service of Remembrance for Lorraine will be held at FCC on Saturday, September 9 at 11:00 a.m. A reception will be held in the

fellowship hall following the service for you to be able to visit with Deryll and family.

AUGUST OUTREACH

SIDNEY’S SAFE FOUNDATION

Let’s work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation of either SSF or August Outreach. You may place it in the donation box in the hall.

WELCOME

The personnel committee submitted two applicants for our church nursery to the board in a called board meeting on August 20.

The Board approved hiring Karyn Addison. Karen is a Teacher’s Assistant at Forrest Hills school and has experience running a youth and daycare program at a church in the past.

The board also approved hiring our own Coby Futrell. Coby has experience babysitting for many families. She has also helped in the nursery recently with Wallace Henderson.

We look forward to having both Karyn and Coby and growing our nursery and children’s program. They will start on September 10.

Please be sure to introduce yourself!

UPDATE

Suzanne sent a great update on Ragan Morris.

Presently Ragan is working at the Birmingham Country Club with the membership’s children in the day-care program. Suzanne and Barry recently had lunch with her and the family recently and Ragan mentioned that she thought it was amazing that parents trusted her to work with their children. She is a wonderful example of happy, loving, and caring! Your prayers for Ragan continue to work in her life!!

JULY LADIES LUNCHEON AT CHINO’S

 We had such a good lunch and time together in August, that we forgot to take photos! If you have not been to a Ladies luncheon, we would love for you to come and fellowship with your FCC friends!! We always enjoy each other’s time together, and of course great food!

September’s luncheon will be held at Taco Mama’s on S. Cherry Street. Sept 17, 11:15 a.m.

M. H. HARPER LIBRARY

Thomas Harrison

More Large Print books that are coming to our bookshelves are the following from Lori Copeland's and Angela Hunt's Heavenly Daze series: The Island of Heavenly Daze; Grace in Autumn; Warmth in Winter; and Hearts at Home. To the casual observer, the island of Heavenly Daze is comparable to so many others off the coast of Maine. The island is graced with beautiful Victorian mansions and bright wildflowers that line the cobblestone streets. The citizens are sturdy, hard-working folks, most of whom are unaware that the island is not just like the other islands of coastal Maine. At the peak of the small town are seven buildings, each inhabited, according to divine decree, by an angel who has been commanded to guard and assist anyone who crosses their thresholds. Unexpected hijinks and heart-warming results occur when mortals and immortals cross paths, and unaware visitors to the picturesque establishments of Heavenly Daze discover that they have been entertained by angels.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Paige Hines, sister of Amy McCorkle.

Mark Miller, son of Myra & Jon Finch, is doing much better.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Kaye Thomas, Tia Davis, Kathy Vandiver, Geri Stout, Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

ALL SAINTS PRoGRESSIVE DINNER

The UNA All Saints progressive dinner started at FCC with outside games and refreshments. We had a great turnout, and everyone had a wonderful time. 

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Pastor Cameron’s Corner

No Plan “B"

Perhaps you have heard the old story about Jesus appearing in heaven just after his resurrection. Jesus is giving a progress report on all that has happened while he was on earth. Moses is there and he asks him, "Well Jesus, did you leave things in capable hands?"

Jesus responds, "I did. I have left behind Mary and Martha and Peter and the other disciples."

Moses said, "What if they fail?"

Jesus said, "Well, I have established the Church and filled it with the Holy Spirit, and they will carry on."

And Moses said, "What if they fail?"

Came the reply, "I have no other plan."

There's a great tension there. God is at work here in our church First Christian Church, Florence, Alabama, and we've been given the keys of the Kingdom. We have work to do, and Christ calls us to it. The prophet Micah put it this way: "do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with thy God.”

Jesus is counting on us. He has no plan “B” so we will overcome any difficulties as we trust and believe on Jesus and depend on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

See you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, August 27, 2023

Sermon: “Bear One Another’s Burdens”

Scripture: Galatians 6:1-5

MEDICINE BOTTLES

Thank you for saving the medicine bottles  at your church and giving them to La Clinica Cristiana - Free Christian Clinic in the Shoals.  They are open once a month to serve the community.  This month 51 people were served.  About 200 prescriptions were filled in 5 1/2 hours.  Thank you to all the volunteer physicians, nurses, lab technicians, interpreters, and many other volunteers. 

Many people were blessed today. Kelly Parkes

AUGUST OUTREACH

SIDNEY’S SAFE FOUNDATION

Let’s work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation of either SSF or August Outreach. You may place it in the donation box in the hall.

Dates to Remember

August 30: Wednesday night supper: Bring a salad of your choice. Bring your favorite home-made ice cream and join in on the fun competition!

Sept. 4: Church office closed – Labor day

Sept. 8 & 9: The Oka Kapassa Festival – Spring Park.

Sept. 17: Board Meeting

September 19: Ladies Luncheon @ Taco Mamas on South Cherry Street. 11:15 am.

Sept. 24: Reconciliation offering

Sept. 27: Wednesday Night Supper

Sept. 30: Soup Kitchen

THANK YOU

Safeplace would like to thank you so much for your continuing support and help for the families served. Your donations are greatly appreciated and are essential in helping meet current needs. Without your support, our services would not be possible. Thank you, Safeplace

AUGUST WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER &

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

AUGUST 30, 5:15 - 7:00 P.M.

            We are asking everyone to bring their favorite summer salad to share, whether it be a corn salad, chicken salad, tuna salad, pasta salad, or whatever!  FCC will provide rolls, crackers, & drinks. Please sign up on the Activities Board in the church hallway, if you plan to bring a salad and if you know, which kind you plan to bring.

            Make your favorite homemade ice cream and join in the fun, competition, and sharing with your fellow Christians of FCC!  Ice Creams will be set up in order for everyone to have a “taste” and vote (with money) for their favorite one!  Funds raised will go to support the Choir’s music needs!

All salads and ice cream will need to be at the church by 5:00 p.m., Wednesday evening, August 30.

Lorraine Banning: is in home hospice care. Your continued prayers for her and Daryll and the family are appreciated.

Paige Hines, sister of Amy McCorkle, is recovering from surgery.

Mark Miller, son of John & Myra Finch

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Kaye Thomas, Tia Davis, Kathy Vandiver, Geri Stout, Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Just Four Feet 

In a Peanuts cartoon Linus comes running across the beach to Charlie Brown shouting "I can swim, I can swim!"

"Well, I'm glad to hear that Linus, congratulations!"

"Yes sir," Linus says, "If I'm ever aboard an ocean liner and it sinks four feet from shore, I won't have a thing to worry about!"

Isn't that true for most of us? You can read the story in Matthew 14:22-33 about Peter while walking on water in a storm toward Jesus went about 4 feet then began to sink. You and I can go about 4 feet on the power of our own faith, but thereafter we need to rely on the strong arms and hands of our Sovereign Lord. 

Life is too precious to go out on our own. We need one another and God to keep us from sinking in the storms of life. Reach out and find Jesus. 

See you Sunday,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, August 13, 2023

Sermon: “Care for One Another”

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31

AUGUST OUTREACH

SIDNEY’S SAFE FOUNDATION

Let’s work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation of either SSF or August Outreach. You may place it in the donation box in the hall.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

Every once in a awhile I hit pay dirt on my book-hunting excursions! Recently, I found several slightly used large-print hardcover novels for a dollar a piece. I am presently processing these, and they will soon be on the shelves. Below is a preview of some of the acquired novels, some of which are modern inspirational-classics. By the way, when one enters the library, the large-print books are located directly beyond the double doors, behind my desk.

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 20: UNA All Saints Progressive Dinner 5 p.m.

The students who are a part of All Saints Ministry at UNA will begin their progressive dinner here at First Christian church. We will have yard games set up, provide drinks, and fellowship. They will then walk to the next sponsoring church. Let’s encourage these students to be a part of our Christ centered, loving church. Please come and join in fellowship and make connections with these students from UNA.

WEEK OF COMPASSION -- RESPONDING IN MAUI

Children's Disaster Services is responding to the wildfires in Hawaii. Teams of certified volunteers are being pulled together today for deployment soon. They will be working in the shelters on Maui.
​
Take a moment to say a prayer for all the families impacted by these wildfires. Also pray for all the responders providing care, including the CDS volunteers.

Week of Compassion is grateful for our network of partners responding to the wildfires in Hawaii and for the opportunity to support Children's Disaster Services as they prepare volunteer teams, including Disciples, to provide childcare for evacuees.

On a coordination call on Thursday, those partners in Hawaii reiterated that the donation of greatest impact is money - in addition to immediate needs, the economic toll in these areas will be significant, as will be the needs for rebuilding. The emotional and spiritual impacts are also great, especially given the devastating loss of life and cultural and historical items.

We invite those who are giving generously to designate gifts "Hawaii Fires," and 100% will go to assist affected communities. As always, we especially invite you to continue in prayer for our neighbors in Hawaii.If you would like to make a donation towards recovery in Maui, you may put in the offering place. Be sure to put Maui in the for section. 100% of these donations will go directly to recovery.

AUGUST WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER &

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

AUGUST 30, 5:15 - 7:00 P.M.

We are asking everyone to bring their favorite summer salad to share, whether it be a corn salad, chicken salad, tuna salad, pasta salad, or whatever!  FCC will provide rolls, crackers, & drinks. Please sign up on the Activities Board in the church hallway, if you plan to bring a salad and if you know, which kind you plan to bring.

Make your favorite homemade ice cream and join in the fun, competition, and sharing with your fellow Christians of FCC!  Ice Creams will be set up in order for everyone to have a “taste” and vote (with money) for their favorite one!  Funds raised will go to support the Choir’s music needs!

All salads and ice cream will need to be at the church by 5:00 p.m., Wednesday evening, August 30.

Lorraine Banning: is in home hospice care. Your continued prayers for her and Daryll and the family are appreciated.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Kaye Thomas, Tia Davis, Kathy Vandiver, Geri Stout, Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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Enough Is Enough

I just returned from the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Louisville. It was a magnificent event with powerful worship experiences every night. I loved it all. And there were a few uncomfortable things about being in a downtown major metropolitan area. Every time I walked from my hotel to the convention center, about three city blocks, I walked through a homeless camp area. People were sleeping on the street, a few consuming alcohol, everyone was very unkept. It was disturbing, and clear to me at least, that some of the street residents would be better off in a mental health facility. I was approached by one who asked if I had spare change for him to get a bus. I said no and felt guilty because I don’t carry cash anymore. I only carry a credit or debit card.

I like the following illustration by Johnny Dean entitled “How Much Is Enough?” — A few years ago, there was an article in The Christian Century about the problem of homelessness in America. It was a long article, discussing every possible aspect of the problem. And in this long article, this extensive examination of a serious problem, in a Christian publication, not one mention was ever made of the church and what the church could do to help. Homelessness? Sounds like a government problem to me! Send them away, Jesus.

But Jesus says, "No. You give them something to eat. You take care of their needs." And despite the protests of his followers that they just don't have enough to do that, Jesus takes what they have - a lunch basket brought by a small boy, containing only a couple of loaves of bread and some fish. And he blesses it, breaks it, and gives it back to them and - what do you know? - It IS enough!

When Jesus gets something, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it back, it is always enough. I invite you to give him your life and see how he can bless it. 

See you Sunday,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, August 13, 2023

Sermon: “Pray for One Another”

Scripture: James 5:13-16

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 16: Bible Study Class - 7-8 pm

August 15:Ladies Luncheon-Rising Pie Crust Hwy 72

August 13: Dare to Care – 2 pm.

August 20: UNA All Saints Progressive Dinner  The group will start at FCC for yard games & Fellowship.

SYMPATHY

Sharon Streeter, mother of Crystal Sanders passed away the end of July. Crystal is the daughter-in-law of Suzanne & Barry Morris. Please keep the family in your prayers.

AUGUST OUTREACH

SIDNEY’S SAFE FOUNDATION

Let’s work together and reach out to help SSF provide snacks for hungry children in the Shoals.

We are asking for nonperishable, individually packaged, easy-to-eat food such as: jars of peanut butter, jars of jelly, boxes of saltines, Little Debbies, fruit bars, granola bars, peanut butter crackers, pop tarts, microwave popcorn, pop top canned foods like ravioli, beanie weenies or spaghetti.

Collections bins are in the fellowship hall and in the entryway hall. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please make your check out to FCC, and make a notation of either SSF or August Outreach. You may place it in the donation box in the hall.

FIFTH SUNDAY BREAKFAST

We would like to say a huge THANK YOU for all those involved in the Breakfast on July 30!  It was great to have everyone who was able to attend together for fellowship and breakfast!  Thank you to: Leon Nale, James McCorkle, Bill Davis, Sam Walker, Macon Jones, Skip Hodges, Barry Morris, and Garry Watson. Thank you to anyone else we may have missed who helped in any way.

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

In memory of Reverend Bob Stegall, another fine book has been added to the library: With Burning Hearts: A Meditation on the Eucharistic Life by Henri J. M. Nouwen. Within this beautifully-illustrated book, "Nouwen seeks a fuller understanding of the Eucharist through the story of the disciples on their way to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). Like these disciples we, too, come together in our brokenness before God, hear the Word and the profession of faith, and recognize Jesus in the breaking of the bread. From mourning to discernment, from invitation to intimacy, and from community to the charge to go forth and witness: With Burning Hearts calls us to experience all of this journey, to know that what we celebrate and what we are called to live are one and the same." (Quote taken from the book's jacket.) Within this book (p.9) , Nouwen states, "Every day I celebrate the Eucharist. Sometimes... with hundreds of people present. Very few days pass without my saying, 'Lord, have mercy.' Still, I wonder: Do I know what I am doing? Do those who stand or sit around the table with me know what they are a part of? Does something really happen that shapes our daily lives?" 

PRAYERS

Lorraine Banning: is in home hospice care. Your continued prayers for her and Daryll and the family are appreciated.

 Tia Davis, 19-year-old friend of Jodi McDaniel & family, has aplastic anemia.

Kathy Vandiver, friend of Tonitia Butler, is in hospice care at home.

Geri Stout, friend of Thomas Harrison, is undergoing chemo for metastatic cancer.

Kaye Thomas, mother of Chris Thomas.

Christopher Willis, relative of George Pinkston.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, , Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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August 2, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

“One Anothering” 

The phrase "one another" appears numerous times in the New Testament and is often used to convey essential principles for Christian living and community building. These passages emphasize the importance of love, unity, service, and mutual support among believers. Through the phrase "one another," the New Testament presents a beautiful framework for fostering healthy relationships and a strong, vibrant faith community.

For the next six Sundays I will be preaching a sermon series entitled “One Anothering.” One of the fundamental aspects emphasized through the "one another" passages is love. Jesus taught in John 13:34-35, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another." This verse highlights the transformative power of love and how it serves as a defining characteristic of followers of Christ. Demonstrating love towards one another fosters an environment of acceptance, forgiveness, and empathy, promoting unity among believers.

The Apostle Paul encourages believers in Romans 12:10, to "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." This verse exemplifies the humility that should permeate Christian relationships. In Ephesians 4:2-3, Paul urges believers to "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Here, believers are reminded of the importance of preserving unity in the body of Christ. Unity is not uniformity, but a harmonious coexistence that embraces diversity while staying grounded in mutual love and understanding.

My sermon series using the "one another" passages address the profound insights into Christian living and community. They promote a culture of love, unity, humility, service, and accountability among believers. By embracing these principles and incorporating them into our daily lives, Christians can build strong, vibrant faith communities that reflect the heart and teachings of Jesus Christ. As we love one another and live in unity, we become a powerful testimony of God's love and grace to the world around us.

See you Sunday,  Pastor Cameron

Sunday, August 6, 2023

Sermon: “Love One Another” 
Scripture: John 13:34-35

Reverend Cameron Douglas

A Note from the Elders

The elders continue to meet with Pastor Douglas every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. With Tammy's assistance, we have been working on updating our shepherding lists, including adding your birthdays and other information and making some adjustments to the elder assignments of our members.  Most of you will remain under the care of the same elder, with the exception of those whose elders have rotated off  in their service as of July 1st (Amy, James, and Leon). Our new elders are Suzanne and Barry Morris and Pam Watson. While Pam is completing her traveling-nurse duties through October, her folks will be taken care of by the rest of us. Your assigned elders will be reaching out to you soon to advise you about their contact information. Thanks so much to Barry Morris for filling the position of Vice Chair of the elders. Blessings,

Thomas Harrison, Chair of the Elders

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 3: Muscle Shoals schools 1st day.

August 4: Colbert Co. schools 1st day

August 8: Lauderdale Co schools 1st day.

August 9: Shoals Christian 7-12 gr. 1st day.

August 10: Shoals Christian elementary 1st day.

August 10: Florence City schools 1st day.

August 9, 16: Bible Study Class - 7-8 pm

August 15: Ladies Luncheon Rising Pie Crust Hwy 72

August 13: Dare to Care – 2 pm.

August 20: UNA All Saints Progressive Dinner  The group will start at FCC for yard games & Fellowship.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Maryjane Hean on being chosen as teacher of the year at Leighton Elementary school! We are extremely excited for you Maryjane!! Congratulations!

M. H. Harper Library

Thomas Harrison

The Spymistress by New York Times bestselling-author Jennifer Chiaverini is a novel based on a real-life Civil War heroine, Elizabeth Van Lew. Born to slave-holding aristocracy in Richmond, Virginia, and educated by Northern Quakers, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Van Lew was a contradiction of her time. Van Lew’s spiritual and moral convictions compelled her to defy the new Confederate government when her native state seceded in 1861. Covertly pledging her loyalty to President Lincoln, Lizzie's courage never wavered, even as her wartime actions threatened not only her reputation, but also her wealth, her lifestyle, and indeed her very life. Lizzie was determined to remain in Richmond, risking everything to care for Union prisoners of war,  gathering Confederate secrets through her spy ring, and constructing the Richmond Underground. Lizzie orchestrated escapes from the infamous Confederate Libby Prison under the cover of her humanitarian aid, battling obstacle after obstacle. Van Lew’s skills in gathering military intelligence were unparalleled and she benefitted from tapping into Unionists serving as clerks and prison guards within the Confederate government, as well as one free "colored" woman serving within the very home of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. While Van Lew was inducted posthumously into the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame, in Chiaverini’s absorbing tale of high-stakes espionage, this heroine's story finally gets its due. Personally, I consider this book to be well-written, totally absorbing, and compelling.

Sympathy

Our sympathy is extended to Don Wilson and the family on the passing of Sadricia Wilson on July 28. Sadricia had been admitted to a hospice care facility in Huntsville on July 24, following a lengthy battle with cancer. Your prayers for the family are appreciated.

SOUP KITCHEN

JULY 29, 2023

Thank you to everyone who helped in any way to make Soup Kitchen a success this month. We appreciate all the volunteers who cooked, cleaned, served, baked desserts, or contributed towards the cost of the food! Thank you, First Christian family, for continuing to show the love of God to those served by Soup Kitchen.

PRAYERS

Lorraine Banning: Lorraine’s scans came back with new growth; she will not continue treatment and will be in home hospice care. Your continued prayers for her and Daryll and the family are appreciated.

Sharon Streeter, mother of Crystal Sanders is in hospice care with a brain tumor. Crystal is the daughter-in-law of Suzanne & Barry Morris.

Kathy Vandiver, friend of Tonitia Butler, is in hospice care at home.

Geri Stout, friend of Thomas Harrison, is undergoing chemo for metastatic cancer.

Kaye Thomas, mother of Chris Thomas.

Christopher Willis, relative of George Pinkston.

Continued Prayers: Louise Tanner, Scott Dawsey, Aaron Michael, , Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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July 26, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Two Wolves One of my favorite theologians, Mr. Rogers, used to say: “Have you ever noticed that the very same people who are bad sometimes are the very same people who are good sometimes?” It reminds me of a story called, “Two Wolves.” It goes like this: “An old Cherokee once told his grandson about a fight that was going on inside of him. He said it was between two wolves. One was evil: Anger, envy, greed, arrogance, self-pity, gossip, resentment, and false pride. The other was good: Joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The grandson thought about it for a moment and then asked his grandfather, ‘Which wolf do you think will win?’ The old Cherokee replied, ‘The one I feed.’” (Anonymous) Amen to that! I very much like this quote from James Truslow Adams. “There is so much good in the worst of us, and so much bad in the best of us, that it ill behooves any of us to find fault with the rest of us.” Again, I say, “Amen to that!”

I won’t see you this Sunday. I will be at the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

I will, however, be back the following Sunday.

See you the following Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, July 30, 2023

Robbie Peppers - Guest Preacher

FIFTH SUNDAY BREAKFAST

The men of our church are bringing back our “Fifth Sunday Breakfast”!

The men will be cooking, so enjoy fellowship and breakfast with your church family!!

Sunday, July 30, during our Sunday school hour we will be having breakfast. There will not be Sunday school that day, please meet in the fellowship hall.

Soup kitchen is this Saturday, July 29.

First Christian will provide this meal. If you signed up to bring desserts, you may drop them off at the church on Thursday, July 27, or have them at First Presbyterian church by 11 am. If you are a volunteer to help set up, serve, or clean up, please by at First Presbyterian by 10:30. As always you may make a monetary contribution to help with the cost of food. Please leave in the offering plate and note For: Soup kitchen

DATES TO REMEMBER

July Outreach: Soup Kitchen July 29.

Contributions may be made to cover cost of food.

General Assembly: July 28-30

July 30: Fifth Sunday Breakfast

(During Sunday school hour)

AUGUST

August 3: Muscle Shoals schools 1st day.

August 4: Colbert Co. schools 1st day

August 8: Lauderdale Co schools 1st day.

August 9: Shoals Christian 7-12 gr. 1st day.

August 10: Shoals Christian elementary 1st day.

August 10: Florence City schools 1st day.

August 2, 9, 16: Bible Study Class - 7-8 pm

August 15:Ladies Luncheon - Rising Pie Crust Hwy 72

August 13: Dare to Care – 2 pm.

August 20: UNA All Saints Progressive Dinner – meet here for yard games & Fellowship.

HANDY NIGHT

Join the Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers featuring some of First Christian Church’s own, on Thursday July 27th, for an evening of fun and music!! 

Meet at 5:00 at Rick’s BBQ on Hwy 72( by Shoals Creek) for dinner and fellowship.  There will be a block of tables reserved for all of us. Then go to Killen Time on Hwy 72 in Killen for the music at 6:30! 

Tammy will call Rick’s Thursday am to hold tables for our group. Be sure to let her know if you did not sign-up on the bulletin board.

Don’t forget your lawn chairs!!  See you all then!!

Congratulations!!

Thomas Harrison is a great-uncle!! Finn Harrison Harr was born on July 18  at 3:01 AM. He weighed 5 lbs. 14 ounces and is 19.25 inches long. Parents are Stuart and Presley Harr.

PRAYERS

Louise Tanner is recovering at home.

Scott Dawsey is currently in Brentwood facility in Muscle Shoals after having a stroke.

Sadricia Wilson is in a hospice care facility in Huntsville, under the care of Dr. Alan Baggett.

Sharon Streeter, mother of Crystal Sanders is in hospice care with a brain tumor. Crystal is the daughter-in-law of Suzanne & Barry Morris.

Kathy Vandiver, friend of Tonitia Butler, is in hospice care at home.

Christopher Willis, relative of George Pinkston.

Kaye Thomas, mother of Chris Thomas.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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JulY 20, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

God and Three Pennies 

Mother Teresa of Calcutta, India, died as a world-known figure. But who would have ever thought she would have attained such influence when she first began? What did she have to recommend her? A tiny woman, she began with the most meager of resources. Mother Teresa told her superiors, “I have three pennies and a dream from God to build an orphanage.”

“Mother Teresa,” her superiors said, “you can’t build an orphanage with three pennies . . . with three pennies you can’t do anything.”

“I know,” she said, smiling, “but with God and three pennies I can do anything.”

Mother Teresa understood the principle of the seed. It takes very little, but blessed by God, and miracles can occur. This, of course is akin to Jesus’ teaching elsewhere, that faith only the size of a mustard seed can produce an enormous bush. 

That is a constant law in God’s world. You can with God’s vision/mission, your faith and a few meager resources build the Kingdom right where you are. We at FCC Florence ARE with God’s vision, and with our faith and resources building the Kingdom HERE and NOW to glorify God. 

I’ll see you Sunday, Pastor Cameron 

Sunday, July 23, 2023

Sermon: “Good People Can Make Bad Choices

Scripture: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43y 20, 2023

DATES TO REMEMBER

July Outreach: Soup Kitchen (Rose & Terry McGee)

Elders Meet: July 25

July 27th: Handy Night: Meet at 5:00 at Rick’s BBQ on Hwy 72( by Shoals Creek) for dinner and fellowship; then on to Killen Time to hear our own, Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers perform. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board to get a count for dinner.

General Assembly: July 28-30

Soup Kitchen: July 29. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

July 30: Fifth Sunday Breakfast (During Sunday school hour)

SOUP KITCHEN

The next Soup kitchen will be on Saturday, July 29. First Christian will provide this meal. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board for volunteers and for desserts. Please consider volunteering. As always you may make a monetary contribution to help with the cost of food. Please leave in the offering plate and note For: Soup kitchen

HANDY NIGHT

Join the Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers featuring some of First Christian Church’s own, on Thursday July 27th, for an evening of fun and music!!  Meet at 5:00 at Rick’s BBQ on Hwy 72( by Shoals Creek) for dinner and fellowship.  There will be a block of tables reserved for all of us. Then go to Killen Time on Hwy 72 in Killen for the music at 6:30! 

There will be a sign-up sheet, so we know how many plan to come for dinner at Rick’s.

Don’t forget your lawn chairs!!  See you all then!!

FIFTH SUNDAY BREAKFAST

The men of our church are bringing back our “Fifth Sunday breakfast”

Sunday, July 30, during our Sunday school hour we will be having breakfast. The men will be cooking, so come enjoy fellowship and breakfast with your church family. There will not be Sunday school that day, please meet in the fellowship hall.

PRAYERS

Louise Tanner fell and was admitted to Helen Keller. She had surgery on Tuesday to repair a break.

Scott Dawsey is currently in Brentwood facility in Muscle Shoals after having a stroke.

Sadricia Wilson is in need of your prayers.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Barbara Sharp, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Finding Yourself in Jesus

What fills you with God’s abundant life? What will restore your soul? What are the practices that create a song in your heart? What is it, for you, that brings you totally alive?

Every one of us has an answer uniquely based on who we are, how we are growing, and how we are wondrously made. In my house, Diane picks fabric squares and imagines how they fit together to make an intriguing quilt pattern or design. On the other hand, I sit in my Lazyboy office chair, juggling metaphors, scouring the internet and my Bible software program, or reading a book trying to figure out another sermon idea or line of thought. I like it and it’s not really work, although it really is work! It’s who I am and what I do. All of us are wired differently.

There is a lady in our church who has an enormous flower garden; tending it is what gives her life. There’s the man I know who persists in welcoming cast-off puppies at the Decatur animal shelter; they keep him company and he returns the favor.

For some people, it’s running marathons (which I respect but don’t understand) or singing difficult songs (which I do). For other people, it is providing a happy table, where joy is the main course.

For some people, it’s the solitary work of quiet prayer for the needs of the world. For others, it’s translating those prayers into acts of mercy and justice. It gives life to them and to others.

This is what it means to come to Christ and find yourself. In the grace of God, we find what gives us life and we pursue it. And we keep pursuing it, not for the sake of indulgence, but in the pursuit of a greater integration and health. To be a disciple of Christ is to give up all life’s other slaveries and take on the disciplines that heal our souls.

That’s why we keep coming to FCC weekly for worship. For this is where we hear once again how much we are loved, how deeply we are saved, and how greatly the world is kept in hands far more gracious and just than our own.

May you have a blessed Sabbath this Sunday and again and again. I’ll see you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Sermon: “A Fertile Attitude”

Scripture: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

DATES TO REMEMBER

July Outreach: Soup Kitchen (Rose & Terry McGee)

Elders Meet: July 25

Ladies Luncheon: July 18, 11:15 @ Chino’s Café (located in the Hobby Lobby parking lot, Florence)

Handy Night Dinner & Music: Meet at 5:00 at Rick’s BBQ on Hwy 72( by Shoals Creek) then to Killen Time to listen to The Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers.  A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board to get a count for dinner.

Soup Kitchen: July 29. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

General Assembly: July 28-30

SOUP KITCHEN

The next Soup kitchen will be on Saturday, July 29. First Christian will provide this meal. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board for volunteers and for desserts. Please consider volunteering. As always you may make a monetary contribution to help with the cost of food. Please leave in the offering plate and note For: Soup kitchen

M. H. Library - Thomas Harrison

 Another wonderful book has been placed in our  library in memory of Rev. Bob Stegall, with much gratitude to the generous gift giver: A Year with Thomas Merton: Daily Meditations from His Journals by Thomas Merton, with selection and editing by Jonathan Montaldo. This is a collection of 365 daily inspirational and provocative selections from Merton's the journals, which is combined with his art. Accompanying each month is one of Merton's delightful pen-and-ink drawings or one of his elegant black-and-white photographs. While the passages are selected so that the reader is presented each day with a seasonally appropriate and thought-provoking insight or observation, this book can be enjoyed at any pace. In fact, given that this book is available to our church members, the reader even has an extended amount of time to read it. "'Let not your heart be disturbed' came through into my heart as if especially directed to me and I remembered there was no need to be bitter or to worry, or even to notice what appears to me to be senseless in our life here." (p. 141)

A Note from the Elders

Just so that you are well-informed, I want our membership to know that three elders' terms have ended as of July 1st: Amy McCorkle,  James McCorkle, and Leon Nale. We remaining elders want to thank them for their loving, dedicated service. The elders who have assumed their responsibilities are as follows, including assuming their shepherding lists: Suzanne Morris, Barry Morris, and Pam Watson. Please note that while Pam is working as a travel-nurse in the Dakotas until October, we other elders will assist her in helping those under her watch. As I will be serving as Chair of the elders until January 2024, please feel free to contact me if you have questions or concerns.

Blessings, Thomas Harrison

HANDY NIGHT

Join the Cane Creek Cliff Dwellers featuring some of First Christian Church’s own, on Thursday July 27th, for an evening of fun and music!!  Meet at 5:00 at Rick’s BBQ on Hwy 72( by Shoals Creek) for dinner and fellowship.  There will be a block of tables reserved for all of us. Then go to Killen Time on Hwy 72 in Killen for the music at 6:30! 

Don’t forget your lawn chairs!!  There will be a sign-up sheet, so we know how many plan to come for dinner at Rick’s.

See you all then!!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Volunteers are needed to help members who may need a ride to church. There are times when those in our congregation may need a ride to and from church on Sundays, or when we have specials events in the church. Please consider volunteering your time to help those who may need assistance. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board by the office. Thank you for your help.

PRAYERS

Joy Winn, grandmother of Sam Henderson (Taylor & Wallace) has been having health issues.

Scott Dawsey had a stroke and is in Brentwood.

Family of Mark McWilliams, relative of Bob and Marsha Carter, passed July 4 following complications from a car accident. His wife, Shana is recovering from her injuries at home with family.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Collins & Callie Hannah, Christy Wisdom, Martha Murphy, Helen Smith, Nancy Jones, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

JULY 6, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The Tool of Discouragement

There is an old legend about Satan one day having a yard sale. He thought he'd get rid of some of his old tools that were cluttering up the place. So, there was gossip, slander, adultery, lying, greed, power-hunger, and more laid out on the tables. Interested buyers were crowding the tables, curious, handling the goods. One customer, however, strolled way back in the garage and found on a shelf a well-oiled and cared-for tool. He brought it out to Satan and inquired if it was for sale. "Oh, no!" Satan answered. "That's my tool. Without it I couldn't wreck the church! It's my secret weapon!" "But what is it?" the customer inquired.

"It's the tool of discouragement," the devil said.

As I read the scriptures, particularly the gospels, I read of the difficulties that come when committing yourself to live for Jesus a Christian life. When you put your whole self into loving and serving the Lord through the church discouragement happens. But Jesus, the Apostle Paul, John, James, Peter, and other New Testament writers tell us to keep on, Keeping On. Don’t get discouraged. Things happen, but God will see you through.

For that I am very grateful. No matter how I feel God is in control. Satan cannot use that tool (discouragement) to take us down. Jesus said the gates of hell cannot prevail against the faith Peter expressed in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God. So, stay strong, keep the faith, and share the love of God with all you can.

I’ll see you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, July 9, 2023

Sermon: “Yokefellows”

Scripture: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

WELCOME

We would like to welcome Scott and Susan Jackson, longtime friends and family of FCC, joining by transfer of membership from Kingsway Christian Church in Georgetown, TN. Please add their address to your church contacts.

PRAYERS

Joy Winn, grandmother of Sam Henderson (Taylor & Wallace) has been having health issues.

Family of Mark McWilliams, relative of Bob and Marsha Carter, passed July 4 following complications from a car accident. His wife, Shana is recovering from her injuries at home with family.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Collins & Callie Hannah, Christy Wisdom, Martha Murphy, Helen Smith, Nancy Jones, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

M. H. Library - Thomas Harrison

With gratitude to a gift given in memory of Bob Stegall, The Fragment has been added to our library. In this high-stakes historical thriller from master storyteller Davis Bunn, skepticism competes with faith amid the grandeur of post-World-War-I Europe. In 1923, a resilient

Paris is recovering from the ravages of World War I as well as the Spanish

Flu Epidemic. Muriel Ross, an amateur American photographer, has been

tasked with documenting the antiques that her employer, U.S. Senator

Tom Bryan has traveled to France in order to attain. While exhilarated to

have escaped the confines of her parents’ stifling Virginia home, Muriel has

lingering questions as to why the senator has chosen her for this splendid

adventure. Regardless, Muriel soaks up Parisian culture, capturing the sights

and sounds of Paris on her camera, until events take a dangerous turn. Muriel

discovers that the senator is actually on a mission that is far more significant,

and potentially deadly, pertaining to an astonishing historical artifact.

SOUP KITCHEN

The next Soup kitchen will be on Saturday, July 29. First Christian will provide this meal. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board for volunteers and for desserts. Please consider volunteering. As always you may make a monetary contribution to help with the cost of food. Please leave in the offering plate and note For: Soup kitchen

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Volunteers are needed to help members who may need a ride to church. There are times when those in our congregation may need a ride to and from church on Sundays, or when we have specials events in the church. Please consider volunteering your time to help those who may need assistance. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board by the office. Thank you for your help.

BIBLE STUDY CLASS

Taught by Robbie Peppers

Topic: Prayer

July 5 – August 9, - 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Wednesday evenings in the fellowship hall.

DARE TO CARE REMINDER

Dare to Care will meet this Sunday, July 9 at 2 pm.

TACO NIGHT SUCCESS!!!

The  Wednesday Night Taco Supper was wildly successful, and everyone enjoyed the tacos, chips, dip, and homemade desserts.  The fellowship time with our Disciples was incredible and enjoyed by everyone to see each other casually during the week.  

We need to recognize our helpers! A huge thank you to Tammy Hendrix for helping with groceries, set up, cleanup, and the beautiful decorations that gave the fellowship hall a festive feel.  Shout outs to the taco meat providers:  Rose McGee, Grace Simpson, Tonitia Butler, Tracy Futrell, Gail Evans, Iris Schumann, and John Finch.  Lots of love to the dessert makers (yum) - Patsy Blasingame, Faye Sanders, Dianne Martin, Kay Stegall, Sandra Kilgore, Arlene Burch, Claire McCamy.  And last but not least, those who helped with set up and clean up: Arlene & Dick Burch, Terry & Rose McGee, Leon & Lana Nale,  Jessica Johnson, Bob Carter, Diane Martin, Thomas Harrison, Grace Simpson, and others (whose names escape me).  It takes a village to feed this hungry crew! ~ Marsha Carte

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Pastor Cameron’s Corner

True Commitment

There is an amusing but thought-provoking story by Danish theologian Soren Kierkegaard about the difference between making a contribution and making a commitment. The story is set in a small town where the citizens are very proud of their fire chief. He was a pleasant man and well-liked by everyone in town. One day, the fire chief rounded up his brigade to respond to a dangerous fire. But when the fire brigade arrived, they couldn’t reach the fire because all the townspeople were in the way. 

The citizens of this town thought they would come out and help their beloved fire chief. Yet the citizens were only equipped with small squirt guns. As they squirted tiny streams of water at the fire, they commented that they believed in the good work of the fire chief and wanted to make their own contribution to it. 

The fire chief, in a rage, shouts at them, “Get out of here! Fires like this are not for well-meaning people who want to make limited contributions! Such situations demand firemen who are ready to risk their lives in putting out the flames!” 

Kierkegaard is making the point with this story that many people want to contribute to Jesus’ work, but few want to commit to it. There is big difference between a contribution in the church offering plate and a commitment to DO something for the mission and purpose of God’s work in the church. You need to commit yourself to Christian discipleship and not just bring a squirt gun to church. 

I’ll see you Sunday, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, July 2, 2023

Sermon: “Pastor, Don’t Talk About That!

Scripture: Romans 6:12-18

DATES TO REMEMBER

JUNE OUTREACH: Meals on Wheels

June 28: Wednesday Night Supper 5-7 pm. TACO NIGHT!! A signup sheet for Taco meat is on the bulletin board. A donation Basket will be present to offset costs of fixings and drinks. You may also put a donation in the offering plate, marked Taco dinner.

M. H. Library - Thomas Harrison

Melanie Dickerson's The Peasant’s Dream is part the Hagenheim Fairytale Romance series, consisting of several reimagined fairytales written for young-adult readers. This tale focuses on Adela, daughter of the powerful Duke of Hagenheim. Rarely allowed outside the castle walls. Adela seeks temporary freedom one day by sneaking away to the market, masquerading as a peasant. While in disguise, Adela meets a handsome commoner named Frederick who longs to have a career as a woodcarver. Frederick is from a poor farm family, being the sole provider for his family due to his drunkard father, from whom Fredrick often has to defend his mother. Frederick's dream of carving beautiful images into wood becomes a reality when the Bishop of Hagenheim commissions him to carve new doors for the cathedral. As Frederick works on the project, he and Adela meet almost daily, and love ensues, with Frederick having no idea who Adela truly is. As often happens in fairytales, disaster eventually separates the two, who find themselves caught in the midst of secrets and deceptions that are far more dangerous than innocent disguises.

UPDATE

Collins & Callie Hannah, great nieces of Leon & Lana Nale were born 6 weeks early and have been in the NICU in Huntsville. They have grown and done wonderfully. Parents are Brianna & Luke Hannah. They hope to go home this week if all continues to go well. Continued prayers are appreciated. Below is their first family photo!

CONGRATULATIONS

Paula Babcock welcomed her first great-granddaughter on June 23, 2023. Congratulations!! Parents are Andrew and Kelsey Witt.

SOUP KITCHEN

The next Soup kitchen will be on Saturday, July 29. First Christian will provide this meal. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board for volunteers and for desserts. Please consider volunteering. As always you may make a monetary contribution to help with the cost of food. Please leave in the offering plate and note For: Soup kitchen

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Volunteers are needed to help members who may need a ride to church. There are times when those in our congregation may need a ride to and from church on Sundays, or when we have specials events in the church. Please consider volunteering your time to help those who may need assistance. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board by the office. Thank you for your help.

FLORAL ARRANGING CLASS

The floral arranging class taught by James McCorkle was a huge success! We had 21 attend the class. James provided beautiful flowers and taught each of us the correct way to make them look beautiful! Thank you, James, for providing your time and talent to our church!

PRAYERS

Collins & Callie Hannah, great nieces of Leon & Lana Nale, remain in the NICU in Huntsville and are improving wonderfully. Parents are Brianna & Luke Hannah.

Mark McWilliams, relative of Bob and Marsha Carter, was in a serious car accident. He and his wife Shana were both injured. Shana is in Huntsville Hospital; Mark was sent by med flight to Memphis and is in critical condition.

Christy Wisdom, oldest daughter of Tammy & Trace Hendrix is having tests run on June 29.

Martha Murphy, friend of Doug Evans, had surgery.

Randy, Son-in-Law of Dick & Arlene Burch had surgery.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Martha Murphy, Helen Smith, Nancy Jones, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

June 22, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The Eternal Nature of Everything 

We belong to God, and nothing can separate us from Him, not even death. For you see death is not really nonexistence at all. It is the entrance into a new and larger dimension of life with God. 

Living near Huntsville, AL, we all know something about the scientist Werner von Braun. He writes why he believes in immortality:

In our modern world many people seem to feel that science has somehow made such ‘religious ideas’ untimely or old-fashioned.

But I think science has a real surprise for the skeptics. Science, for instance, tells us that nothing in nature, not even the tiniest particle, can disappear without a trace. Think about that for a moment. Once you do, your thought about life will never be the same.

Science has found that nothing can disappear without a trace. Nature does not know extinction. All it knows is transformation!

Now if God applies this fundamental principle to the most minute and insignificant parts of His universe, doesn’t it make sense to assume that he applies it also to the masterpiece of His creation — the human soul? I think it does and everything science has taught me, and continues to teach me, strengthens my belief in the continuity of our spiritual existence after death. Nothing disappears without a trace.

When someone you love dies, remember that. Remember that God is on both sides of the grave and nothing can separate us from Him. God is there, and that’s really all we need to know. 

I’ll see you Sunday,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, June 25, 2023

Sermon: “Good News About Sparrows”

Scripture: Matthew 10:24-39

~ ~ ~

DATES TO REMEMBER

JUNE OUTREACH: Meals on Wheels

June 22: Floral arranging workshop, 5:30-7 pm. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

June 25: Diaconate Meeting following worship. For all current and new Diaconate.

June 28: Wednesday Night Supper 5-7 pm. TACO NIGHT!! A signup sheet for Taco meat is on the bulletin board. A donation Basket will be present to offset costs of fixings and drinks. You may also put a donation in the offering plate, marked Taco dinner.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

Returning, Wednesday, June 28, 2023

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 pm

Fellowship Hall

TACO DINNER

     WITH ALL THE FIXINGS AND DESSERT

Signup Sheet available for Taco Meat Preparers And Dessert Makers.

Donation Basket will be present to offset costs of Fixings and Drinks.

Come dine with your fellow Disciples of Christ and bring a friend!

MEALS ON WHEELS

The First Christian Church June outreach is Meals on Wheels of the Shoals. Meals on Wheels provides human contact and nutritious meals to elderly homebound citizens in the Shoals Area who can no longer shop or cook for themselves. Through monetary contributions, nutritious meals are prepared and delivered to participants three times a week. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, each participant receives one hot meal and one frozen meal. To make a monetary gift please leave in offering tray, marked June Outreach.  If you have a desire to help our Meals on Wheels Team deliver meals, please contact Bob Carter

Floral Arranging Workshop!

REMINDER

Thursday, June 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

First Christian Church Fellowship Hall

Led by our own florist, James McCorkle!

Learn to arrange summer flowers, whether from your garden or from your local grocery. Learn tips and tricks used by florists in creating beautiful arrangements for your home.

Bring a knife for cutting stems (not scissors - James will explain why) and go home with a floral arrangement you have created under the guidance of James! This is a gift from James - no cost to you!

Please sign up on the church bulletin board so James will know how many flowers and vases to have on hand!

DIACONATE

There will be a Diaconate organizational meeting on Sunday, June 25, following worship. This will only last about 30 minutes, but we need ALL current and newly elected Diaconate to attend. We will elect a new Diaconate chair and Vice Chair and set up the schedule for the next year. A copy of Diaconate duties and responsibilities will also be given out. Questions? Please contact Bob Carter.

BIBLE STUDY CLASS

Taught by Robbie Peppers

Topic: Prayer

July 5 – August 9,

6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Wednesday evenings in

The fellowship hall.

A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

M. H. Library

 Thomas Harrison

This 1940’s Remington Rand Deluxe Model 5 typewriter was gifted to the library in memory of Calvin Leon Bennett by his beloved daughter and my dear friend, Ellis Bennett Anderson. This was Mr. Bennett’s personal typewriter upon which he composed a bulletin, Cal’s Pals, for many years. Cal’s Pals contained inspirational anecdotes, quotes, jokes, and scriptures. Across a period of fifty years in Charlotte, NC and within four Church of Christ congregations, Mr. Bennett served as a deacon as well as an elder (Dilworth, Westside, Mountain Island, and Archdale Churches).

CONGRATULATIONS

Central High School has received Eight nominations in seven categories for Stanley Awards! Our own Tonitia Butler is included in these!!

Best Musical Direction

Tonitia Butler

Best High School Musical

White Christmas

(Performed by Central students and musical direction by Tonitia Butler.)

~~~~~~~~~~

We would so like to congratulate Shoals Christian School for receiving 13 nominations for Willy Wonka Jr. Our own Miss Morgan Johnson had a role in this musical.

Congratulations on all the nominees, best of luck!! This year’s Stanley Awards are on August 5, at 7p.m.

Service Dates for

Trustees-Elders & Diaconate

(in preparation for Calendar Year Service Dates)

CLASS of 2023
TRUSTEE: Term Ending 12/31/2023

Carol Hill
ELDERS: Term Ending 12/31/2023

Thomas Harrison
Patsy Blasingame

Jeff Futrell

CLASS of 2024
Trustee: Term Ending 12/31/2024

Leon Nale

Elders: Term Ending 12/31/2024

Tonitia Butler
Doug Evans

Judy Goode

Diaconate: Term Ending 12/31/2023

Tony Cox
Bill Davis

Jessica Johnson

Tracy Johnson

Diaconate: Term Ending 12/31/2024

Larry Bates
Bob carter

Marsha Carter

Amy Lovelace

Mark Sanders
Garry Watson

CLASS of 2025
TRUSTEE: Term Ending 12/31/2025

Bob carter
ELDERS: Term Ending 12/31/2025
Barry Morris

Suzanne Morris

Pam Watson

Diaconate: Term Ending 12/31/2025

Dick Burch

Arlene Burch
Wayne Schumann

Iris Schumann

Diane Martin

Russ Darracott
Missy Bates

SYMPATHY

Randall Watts, nephew of Lynne & Bill Davis, passed away on June 16. He is the son of Lynn’s sister, Avis Burnett. Services were held in Louisiana. Please keep the entire family in your prayers.

PRAYERS

Lorraine and Deryll Banning are home from Houston, she will have a CT scan here. She is healing nicely from her fall and can start to put weight on her leg.

Mary McCloskey, stepmother of Marsha Carter, is in NAMC.

Martha Murphy, friend of Doug Evans, fell and had to have surgery.

Randy, Son-in-Law of Dick & Arlene Burch had to have surgery this past week.

Collins & Callie Hannah, great nieces of Leon & Lana Nale were born 6 weeks early and are in the NICU in Huntsville. Parents are Brianna & Luke Hannah. They continue to improve daily and are up to 3lbs 11oz & 4lbs 1oz. Continued prayers are appreciated.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Mike Hillis, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Helen Smith, Nancy Jones, Kelsey Witt, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

June 14, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

The Healing Power of Touch 

My mother was an ordained pastor and I remember one of her favorite scripture passages was the healing story of the hemorrhaging woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ cloak as he passed by and was healed (Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:21-43, Luke 8:40-56). How could the bleeding woman get the attention of Jesus? Her problem was of a very personal nature, and she did not want to discuss the issue publicly with the disciples. According to Levitic Law, a woman who was bleeding was considered unclean and under law could touch no one. This is only one of many ancient taboos.

She thus devised a plan. Having heard the stories of Jesus' power, she declared: If I but touch the fringe (hem) of his garment I will be healed.” Taking the risk, she reached out from the crowd and touched the garment of Jesus. Immediately he stopped, bolted around, and asked: "Who touched me?" The disciples were taken aback. Was this some kind of rhetorical question? Master, look around, everyone is touching you!

Then Jesus said one of the most mysterious lines in the Bible: "I felt power flow from me." Really, how is that? What exactly happened in that moment? Did the lady drain his battery? It sounds as though he is almost describing a power surge. "I felt power flow from me." Whatever happened the important matter of course is that in the midst of the crowd, He felt the touch of a single person. Don't ever say that in the enormity of the cosmos God cannot care about my concerns and me. Not only does God care, he actually solicits our concerns "Come unto me all ye who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you peace."

“Daughter,” said Jesus, “your faith has made you well.” And, we are told, she was immediately healed. The desperation of her faith thus became the channel that led to her healing. It was in a touch she was healed, and we can still touch Jesus. In fact He will be with us Sunday as we welcome and worship Him during our service. Come, to be touched and healed by Him. 

I’ll see you then,

Pastor Cameron

Sunday, June 18, 2023 ~ Father’s Day

Sermon: “Herding Cats”

Scripture: Matthew 9:35-10:23

~~~

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

Returning, Wednesday, June 28, 2023

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 pm

Fellowship Hall

TACO DINNER

     WITH ALL THE FIXINGS AND DESSERT

Signup Sheet available for Taco Meat Preparers

And Dessert Makers

Donation Basket will be present to offset costs of

Fixings and Drinks

Come dine with your fellow

Disciples of Christ and bring a friend

MEALS ON WHEELS

The First Christian Church June outreach is Meals on Wheels of the Shoals. Meals on Wheels provides human contact and nutritious meals to elderly homebound citizens in the Shoals Area who can no longer shop or cook for themselves. Through monetary contributions, nutritious meals are prepared and delivered to participants three times a week. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, each participant receives one hot meal and one frozen meal. To make a monetary gift please leave in offering tray, marked June Outreach.  If you have a desire to help our Meals on Wheels Team deliver meals, please contact Bob Carter.

Floral Arranging Workshop!

Thursday, June 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

First Christian Church Fellowship Hall

Led by our own florist, James McCorkle!

Learn to arrange summer flowers, whether from your garden or from your local grocery. Learn tips and tricks used by florists in creating beautiful arrangements for your home.

Bring a knife for cutting stems (not scissors - James will explain why) and go home with a floral arrangement you have created under the guidance of James! This is a gift from James - no cost to you!

Please sign up on the church bulletin board so James will know how many flowers and vases to have on hand!

DATES TO REMEMBER

JUNE OUTREACH: Meals on Wheels

June 20: Ladies Luncheon – 11:15 - Claunch’s Café in Spring Park.

June 22: Floral arranging workshop, 5:30-7 pm. A sign-up sheet is on the bulletin board.

June 25: Diaconate Meeting following worship. For all current and new Diaconate.

June 28: Wednesday Night Supper 5-7 pm. TACO NIGHT!! A signup sheet for Taco meat is on the bulletin board. A donation Basket will be present to offset costs of fixings and drinks. You may also put a donation in the offering plate, marked Taco dinner.

DIACONATE

There will be a Diaconate organizational meeting on Sunday, June 25, following worship. This will only last about 30 minutes, but we need ALL current and newly elected Diaconate to attend. We will elect a new Diaconate chair and Vice Chair and set up the schedule for the next year. A copy of Diaconate duties and responsibilities will also be given out. Questions? Please contact Bob Carter.

PRAYERS

Lorraine and Deryll Banning are in Houston, where Lorraine will be having tests run.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Mike Hillis, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Helen Smith, Nancy Jones, Kelsey Witt, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.

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June 7, 2023

Pastor Cameron’s Corner

Solid Rock Living 

An elderly Scottish woman was making her way through the countryside. Each time she came to a crossroads she would toss a stick into the air. Whichever way the stick came down was the direction she went. At one intersection, however, an old man saw her toss her stick into the air not once, not twice, but three times before resuming her journey.

The old man was curious. “Why are you throwing your stick like that?” he asked.

She squinted and replied, “I’m letting God direct my journey by using this stick.”

“Then why did you throw it three times?” asked the curious old man.

“Because” she said, “the first two times He was pointing me in the wrong direction.”

Yeah, well, sometimes we want to listen to God and other times we seek another direction and don’t listen. Remember it’s not God’s fault when we lose our direction, it’s ours for not paying attention.

Jesus said, “Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock; and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock . . .” Let’s start listening to God’s direction for our life and the life of our church. Let’s start building a life on a rock-solid foundation for living.

I’ll see you this Sunday as we listen for God’s direction, Pastor Cameron

Sunday, June 11, 2023

Sermon: “Why Jesus Likes Sinners"

Scripture: Matthew 9:9-13

The Constitution Passed

By unanimous vote on Sunday, June 4, our new church constitution passed. Our committee (Patsy Blasingame, Bill Davis, Tammy Hendrix, & Jessica Johnson) appreciates your input and support during this process.

All glory to God! Thomas H.

Congregational Vote

Sunday, June 4 following worship, there was a vote by ballot for new Board officers, which passed unanimously.

DATES TO REMEMBER

JUNE OUTREACH: Meals on Wheels

June 11: Dare to Care

June 18: Father’s Day

June 20: Ladies Luncheon – 11:15 -Claunch’s Café in Spring Park

June 25: Diaconate Meeting following worship.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

Returning, Wednesday, June 28, 2023

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 pm

Fellowship Hall

TACO DINNER

     WITH ALL THE FIXINGS AND DESSERT

Signup Sheet available for Taco Meat Preparers

And Dessert Makers

Donation Basket will be present to offset costs of

Fixings and Drinks

Come dine with your fellow

Disciples of Christ and bring a friend

MEALS ON WHEELS

The First Christian Church June outreach is Meals on Wheels of the Shoals. Meals on Wheels provides human contact and nutritious meals to elderly homebound citizens in the Shoals Area who can no longer shop or cook for themselves. Through monetary contributions, nutritious meals are prepared and delivered to participants three times a week. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, each participant receives one hot meal and one frozen meal. To make a monetary gift please leave in offering tray, marked June Outreach.  If you have a desire to help our Meals on Wheels Team deliver meals, please contact Bob Carter

DIACONATE

There will be a Diaconate organizational meeting on Sunday, June 25, following worship. This will only last about 30 minutes, but we need ALL current and newly elected Diaconate to attend. We will elect a new Diaconate chair and Vice Chair and set up the schedule for the next year. A copy of Diaconate duties and responsibilities will also be given out. Questions? Please contact Bob Carter.

M. H. Harper Library - Thomas Harrison

With gripping honesty, Lynn Austin has taken pen to paper to relate her personal spiritual struggles during a time of loss and unwanted change. As Austin traces her travels through Israel, she seamlessly weaves events and insights from God's Word, a path that takes her into a renewed passion for prayer and encouragement for her spirit, ultimately leading her to a life that is full of life and hope. Austin recalls in her autobiographical story, "The opportunity to tour Israel came at a good time. For months, my life has been a mindless plodding through necessary routine, as monotonous as an all-night shift on an assembly line. Life gets that way sometimes, when nothing specific is wrong but the world around us seems drained of color. Even my weekly worship experiences and daily quiet times with God have felt as dry and stale as last year's crackers. I'm ashamed to confess the malaise I've felt. I have been given so much. Shouldn't a Christian's life be an abundant one, as exciting as Christmas morning, as joyful as Easter Sunday?"

June Birthdays

3: Tracy Futrell

3: Kathy Walker

3: Russ Coussons

4: Cloie Trousdale

6: Connie Lard

7: Bob Carter

7: Teresa Danley

8: James McCorkle

11: Taylor Henderson

13: Robin Coussons

14: Maggie Storie

17: Nancy Webb

22: Leelee Ozbirn

23: June Helton

25:  Marth Wiggins

26: Sally Franks

30: Steve Carmack

PRAYERS

Adelyn, GG Granddaughter of John, and Myra Finch.

Helen Smith, cousin of Skip Hodges, has unspoken prayer needs.

Continued Prayers: Aaron Michael, Lorraine Banning, Mike Hillis, Judy Goode, Katrina Kelley, Louise Tanner, Bill Coussons, George Pinkston, June Helton, Aria Todd.

Friends and Family of First Christian: Nancy Jones, Kelsey Witt, Barbara Sharp, Tom Catania, Shylee Bradford-Bevis, Karen Clark, Audrey Hubbard, Jack Peck, James Meredith, David Weiss, James Smith, Cathy Vandiver, Sadricia Wilson, Jerome Glaister, Janet Tanner, and Ragan Morris.