PASTOR Mark ...

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This has been a time of great adjustment and transition for our family and we want to thank you for your prayers. Scott is settled in Chile and is teaching English six days each week. The experiences he is getting to enjoy are almost as overwhelming as him being so far from us. Matthew began his classes at Union on August 24th. Now, Dottie, Ginger (our puppy) and I are learning to deal with quite a different home environment. But it is an exciting time for us and we are thankful to be able to share it with so many caring people.

We are having great and exciting times at FBC, Bemis as well! Seeing the stirring of the Lord is a wonderful thing. Jesus gave the Great Commission to the church. He declared that as we are going about our lives we are to be Kingdom agents impacting the world by making disciples through sharing the Gospel and teaching all that He has commanded us. He further promised to be with us to empower and strengthen us! The Sunday morning series, “Jesus on the Move,” has opened a window to the Book of Luke that we might look into the days of Jesus on earth and see Him living out the Great Commission principles before us. As He moved from one place to the next, He did so with a Kingdom mindset looking for Kingdom opportunities. He is the perfect example for us as disciples to follow.

You were gracious in your giving during the emphasis in August. Many have given extra while others may have just begun the blessed journey and discipline of tithing. No doubt we will still face challenges in these economic times but supporting the work here at FBCB is certainly a blessing and an investment that will reap eternal rewards. Thank you all as we continue to work together to be good stewards of what God has entrusted us with!

A new church year is beginning September 5th. This would be a great time to tell your Sunday School teacher how much you appreciate him or her. They work hard in order to faithfully teach the Word of God each week and we thank them every one. It would also be a great time to get involved in weekly Bible study if you are not already. Being active in a small group is vital for the spiritual health of a believer. We have classes for everyone! Don’t wait…get started this coming Sunday! We will be glad to see you and our greeters at the door will be more than happy to help you find a class to attend.

God bless you all and we hope to see YOU this coming Lord’s Day!

In His Love,

Pastor Mark