FOR THE REST OF US

NEW SMALL GROUP STUDYBEGINNING APRIL 10

Join us in April as we begin our next All-Church Small Group Study, God For The Rest Of Us. Lead by Vince Antonucci, pastor of a Las Vegas Church in the heart of Sin City, this series focuses on real-life people you wouldn’t expect to see sitting mex to you on a Sunday morning. Experience what happens when a church reaches out and asks the question: What if God is not just for the faithful, church-going, or holier-than-thou types? What if God is for the rest of us?

This series will challenge you with these questions: 1) Are you for the people who are forgotten and left out? 2) Are you for the guy who betrayed his wife and left his kids? 3) Are you for the doubters? The skeptics? The atheists?

This study will help you overcome stereotypes and model how to really love people like Jesus does.

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

NOVEMBER 2015

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 11

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 3

MARCH 2016

WRITTEN BY BARB MYHRMAN

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

JOYYOUTHCONQUERORS

EQUALS

PLUS

It started in a casual conversation. JD Hoth, our youth minister, and I were discussing some events that are done for people with disabilities. He mentioned “Prom” types of parties. I said I knew of an event like that in Rockford, but Conquerors (First Baptist’s ministry to adults with disabilities) has not taken on that big of a project, though we have talked about it. “But,” I said, “we do have a gal Conqueror who told me that before she goes to Heaven she wants a ride in a limousine.”

JD’s face lit up. He said, “We could maybe make that happen. Let me think about it and talk to some people. I’ve got a group of youth right now who LOVE to serve.”

He talked to the young ladies in his group and also with a limo service. The next thing I knew, he got back to me and said “We can do this.” We planned to surprise the recipient of the ride after the Conquerors Christmas party December 11th.

After the party on December 11, I asked Tricia Reimer and her mom to meet me in room 33. The high school gals were there waiting. I asked Tricia, “What did you say you wanted to do before you go to Heaven?”

Her mom prompted her, “Your bucket list.”

Tricia answered, “Ride in a limo.”

I had the joy of telling her, “Tonight, Tricia, you are going home in a limousine!!”

The pictures tell you her reaction. She was thrilled. We all walked down the hall to the exit, and there sat the beautiful, long white limo, and Tricia could not believe her eyes.

We took pictures, and all the girls piled in for a ride to a fast food place and then to see some of the Christmas lighting displays. Tricia lives out near Hampshire, so she had a nice long ride. The limo driver was so touched by the event he offered JD the limo free until 2 am – but being the wise pastor he is, he declined the offer.

Tricia’s mom made the comment, “We won’t sleep much tonight.”

It was wonderful to see these two ministries of First Baptist Church come together for this fun and special event. The girls commented how much fun it was to plan a surprise for someone who appreciated it so much.

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

WRITTEN BY JOSHUA HOEGH

On Saturday, March 5, the White Cross Ministry held a work day where several projects were completed. They spent the day cutting quilt squares, assembling school and health kits, and rolling bandages for hospitals in the Congo.

In addition to these projects, many volunteered to work from home on various crafts.

The White Cross would like to thank the many members of the First Baptist Church family who donated items for the health and school kits. The outpouring of donations was overwhleming, and such a testament to the faithfulness of the people here at FBC. As Acts 20:35 commands us, “Remember the words of Jesus...‘It is much better to give than to receive.’” In participating in this collection and the work to assemble and distribute these kits and items, you are acting in direct obedience to God’s call to give to those in need, and to love others as Christ has loved us.

Thank you for your incredible faithfulness and generosity!

THANK YOUFOR YOUR GENEROSITY!

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

C E L E B R A T E

EASTERA T F I R S T B A P T I S T C H U R C H

GOOD FRIDAY|MARCH 25TH @ 7PMEASTER SUNDAY|MARCH 27TH @ 7:30, 9 & 10:30AM

SAVE THE DATESSATURDAY MARCH 26TH - EASTER EGG HUNTYou and your family are invited to join us for the Annual FBC Easter Egg Hunt! It will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, March 26th in the Fellowship Hall and north lawn. Lunch will be provided. The Easter Egg Hunt is a special and fun time for both church families and families from our community. If you are interested in helping make this event a success, there are PLENTY of ways that you can help! Check your bulletin for volunteer information, as well as ways that you can contribute if you’re unavailable to volunteer that day.

SATURDAY APRIL 23RD - TEA & TIDBITSYou are invited to the Annual Tea & Tidbits event hosted by FBC’s Ladies In Fellowship (LIF). They will be meeting on Saturday, April 23rd at 10am. The cost will be $6 for adults, $4 for kids, and a discounted $12 max for immediate family. All ladies are invited to attend! We hope to see you there! More information will be released later this month, so stay tuned!

SPOTLIGHT NEWS SUBMITTED BY CAROLYN WARRICK

DESIGNED TO SERVE – AMERICAN BAPTIST WOMEN of FIRST BAPTIST

SCRIPTURE READING: MARCH ~ DANIEL

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Bible Book for March is DanielDaniel gives us an account of the faithful Jews who lived in captivity and shows us that God is all-knowing and in control of heaven and earth. God will overcome evil and will deliver the faithful who follow Him. Daniel and his friends are examples of dedication and commitment; they served God regardless of the consequences, not giving into pressures from an ungodly society. Daniel served 70 years in a foreign land that was hostile to God, yet he did not compromise his faith in God and God was faithful in Daniels life. Life lessons from the book of Daniel-One day Christ’s kingdom will replace and surpass the kingdoms of this world. Our faith is sure because our future is secure in Christ. Be relentless in our prayers, stay firm in our integrity, and serve God wherever He puts us. Trust God to be with us through any trial and remain faithful to Him. Begin your day in God’s Word as a vital part of your day.

ABWM MONTHLY UPDATE

WRITTEN BY SHARON KEEHLER

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DEBORAH FELLOWSHIP - TUESDAY, MARCH 15Join the ladies of the church at the Deborah Fellowship at 1:00 p.m. in the Memorial Room. Hostesses are Ruby Glenn and Carol Schmidt. Part 2 of the video “Project 231” will be shown. Continuing the story of black people’s escape from the south to Elgin, the video will show the lives of the black people who settled here and their impact on the community. Guest speakers will also provide details of the history of these settlers.

DORCAS FELLOWSHIP - THURSDAY, MARCH 17Dorcas Fellowship meets at 1:00 p.m. in the Memorial Room. Carol Schmidt and Norma Willett are hostesses. The program “Tale of Three Trees” relating to Christ’s life will be given by Artis Whitcomb. For more information, contact Artis at 847-695-0895.

KNIT WITS - FRIDAY, MARCH 18 & APRIL 1The Knit Wits, a ministry of ABW, will meet in the Memorial Room at 6:30 p.m. Join the women for fellowship and crafting to benefit missions. Many beautiful items have been made and distributed by the group. If you are experienced or a beginner and like to knit or crochet join the ladies for a great evening. Contact Pat Reed at 847-289-8761 if you would like more information.

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Pray for our missionaries Ruth Mooney in Costa Rica, Scott and Tan Coates in Thailand, Kristy Engel of Healthcare Relief Resource. Pray that God’s word may be spread and received through their work.

MARCH MISSIONARY SPOTLIGHT - RUTH MOONEYRuth teaches Christian education, written communication and ethics at the Latin American Biblical university that prepares pastors and leaders for churches throughout Latin America. She also works with the Publications Department, editing course materials and books written by the faculty as well as directing the bookstore. Ruth has extensive experience in writing Bible study materials and training Sunday school teachers. She recently directed Ediciones Lumbrera, a ministry of the Federación de Asociaciones Bautistas de Costa Rica. Ruth asks for prayer for a new Bible professor and a new Director of Development for the University. Also for wisdom, patience and love to meet the needs of the students and guide them in their studies and spiritual growth and for effective campaigns to attract more Costa Rican and international students.

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March brings nicer weather and a good time to bring sunshine to our shut-inswith a visit or a card to say we are “thinking of you”.

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

WHO WE ARE

Here at First Baptist Church, our doors are open to everyone, regardless of each one’s personal spiritual journey. Together we are an active, involved and growing community of seekers and believers. As a church, our desire is to reach out with God’s love to all people and help them find and follow Jesus Christ.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:1

So in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

Because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Romans 14:18

Dee BloomfieldHeritage Health355 Raymond Ave.Elgin, IL 20120

Marian HansonRochelle Gardens Care Ctr1021 Caron RoadRochelle, IL 60184

Bette WahlenHeritage Health355 Raymond Ave.Elgin, IL 60120

Mamie WisserTimber LakesAssisted Lvg2521 Empowerment Dr.Apartment 126Springfield, IL 62703

Jim FranzThe Vines at Countryside 971 Bode RoadElgin, IL 60120

Debra HofbauerGlen Lake Terrace Nursing & Rehab Ctr2222 W. 14th StreetWaukegan, IL 60085

David RadloffRosewood Care Ctr2355 Royal Blvd.Elgin, IL 60123

OUR SHUT-INS

NEWSLETTER STAFFJANET RIEHECKY, Editor jr@janetriehecky.com

JOSHUA HOEGH, Design & Layout jhoegh@fbcelgin.com

To submit an article for the newsletter, please send it to Joshua or leave it at the church office. Include photos if you can.

Deadline for articles is the 15th of the month.

If you are not comfortable writing,contact Joshua with your information and he will write it for you.

SPOTLIGHT NEWS

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FBC VISION.

The vision of First Baptist Church is to be a dynamic hub of Christian thought, action, and community where...

_Seeking friends can feel safe to ask tough questions as they investigate the Christian faith and discover answers in their spiritual quest for a relationship with God.

_Those who have experienced brokenness, pain, and loss can find healing and wholeness as offered in Jesus Christ and can be nurtured in their faith in an atmosphere of unconditional love and support.

_God’s Word is communicated in a variety of ways demonstrating its relevance in speaking to the challenges and opportunities of life in the 21st century.

_Everyone is growing in their knowledge and understanding of the scriptures, and in their obedience to them.

_Everyone is connected through meaningful, supportive relationships in small groups and other ministry connections.

_Everyone is growing in the understanding of their spiritual giftedness and is actively engaged in a ministry of sharing their talents with the church family and community.

We seek to grow in our unique role as a church family in the Fox Valley by interacting in the life of the community, ministering to the poor, promoting racial reconciliation, and employing new and creative ways of sharing Jesus Christ with those around us.