It is hard to believe that we are now in 2024. It seems it was 2023 just a month ago. When I look back, I think of what has happened over the past twelve months. We have experienced within our congregation the loss of family, friends, and members. At the same time we have seen new birth. We have seen members moving out of the area. And we have seen new members and baptisms. Our sanctuary is now equipped with a new video and sound system. We are now better able to broadcast worship to those in the sanctuary and provide worship to, by way of Facebook Live, those that cannot worship in person. In July you called me to be you pastor.
We have become more visible to the community. In October we participated in the town Fall Crawl by setting up a table where information and candy were handed out to those that stopped by. In late November we decorated a town lamp post. In December we walked in the Christmas parade handing out candy canes and information about our church. Just a few weeks ago we presented a living nativity outside in front of the church.
Our First Christian School continues to grow. Enrollment is up and the Sonshine Station continues to provide day care for children in the community. With little exception, twice a month, the school continues to hold chapel where the students participate, receive award certificates for achievements, and listen to a brief message.
2024 should prove to be a great year in the life of First Baptist Church. We will continue on the path to bring the good new of Jesus Christ to those we come in contact. We will do this by following the teachings of Him through our words, actions, and missions. We will press on towards the goal.
Hosea 6:3
Let us know, let us PRESS ON to know the Lord; his appearing is as sure as the dawn; he will come to us like the showers, like the spring rains that water the earth.’
Philippians 3:12
Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I PRESS ON to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.
Philippians 3:14
I PRESS ON towards the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.
In 2024, let us all PRESS ON towards the goal of spreading the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In His Name,
Pastor John