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…
a creative, progressive, welcoming, and affirming American Baptist congregation in McMinnville, OR
Church Updates (Page 15)
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…
Treasurer’s Report: January-November 2019 Financial update: Building & Grounds Ministry Team is usually remaining budgeted maintenance funds for a new video security system around the building. A contract with BrilliantNW for $5,425 will be funded out of the 2019 budget. Work will be complete in January. More LED lightbulbs will also be purchased during December…
I’m writing this note from the FBC Social Hall. It’s 2:23 am as I begin typing. Next to me is Ian Sutherland, on Winter Break from his studies at Portland State University. It’s his first night volunteering at FBC’s overnight warming shelter. We’re working the 12-4 am shift. When we took over from the 8…
First Friday Forum Friday, December 6th at 7 pm in the Social Hall Good Vibrations: Benefits of Sound Healing Presenter Rachel Hayward brings the power of sound to her healing work and community drum gatherings to help people better understand how sound can be used to heal and to connect to each other and to…