Dear Friends, It’s hard to know where to begin this letter. Everything is changing all around us, and as a church, we’re changing, too. These days feel very improvisational. We’re learning as we go. And the rule of improv, as theologian/Saturday Night Live veteran Tina Fey passed on, is always, “Yes, And.†We take in…
a creative, progressive, welcoming, and affirming American Baptist congregation in McMinnville, OR
Church Updates (Page 14)
Throughout Lent, come Wednesday nights at 7pm to Room 102 to share in discussion centered on Layton Williams’ book Holy Disunity: How What Separates Us Can Save Us. Books are available in the church office (suggested donation of $10). Even if you’re not reading along, this is sure to be a rich conversation about the…
Financial Update: – During January we paid for the 2019 annual inspection of our fire suppressant system plus other maintenance projects completed last fall. – The 150th Major Maintenance fund how has a balance of $21,298 so we are close to the amount needed to cover the repair of the courtyard surface. We still need…
In February, during a worship service, we asked Cynthia Parker, Shelly Sanderlin, Jennifer Scott, and Martha Van Cleave to stand in the center aisle of our sanctuary. We reached our hands toward them and spoke aloud the words we hoped would surround them on their trip to and from Nicaragua and during their work there…
Spring is on its way. Let’s spring our new Vision and Mission statement into the life of our church. Vision: A world where God’s inclusive love embraces and empowers all. Mission: Together, we respond to the call of the Spirit and the teachings of Jesus to learn, love, serve, and seek justice and joy for…
I had what I later described to a friend as “the most small-town-pastor-y of all my smalltown-pastor experiences so far” at a coffee shop the other day. It wasn’t one I usually go to; I didn’t recognize anyone, didn’t know if they were regulars there or first-timers, like me. But after I’d settled into a…
A new year! A new beginning! A new month! Good News! At FBC we are constantly journeying on roads less traveled. We “look behind so we can see ahead.” Doing just that, I want to bring everyone up-to-date on the results of the Semi-Annual Congregational meeting held Sunday, Jan. 12. We gathered for soup, bread,…
Treasurer’s Report: January – December, 2019 Financial update: During our Semi-Annual Meeting on January 12, 2020, the congregation approved our 2020 General Fund budget. If you were not present, please stop by the church office to pick up a copy OR ask to receive a pdf copy emailed to you. Here is a brief summary.…
Dear Friend in Christ, A 6.4-magnitude earthquake shook Puerto Rico at 4:24 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The southwest part of the island received the worst part. Immediately after the seism, the whole island was without electricity. At least one person died, as walls collapsed around the area, and many others were injured. The majority…
Your Leadership Team chairs reported the following, Building and Grounds: the new security system and details about whole building internet access is in discussion Missions: a film and discussion by N. Kristof and his wife in partnership with First Presbyterian is being considered. Faith Formations: A pot-luck and film are coming in January Membership: a…