OCTOBER 2013 // www.fb cgso.org // 336.274.3286

fi rst baptist church greensboro

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Emphasizing worship, spiritual development, fellowship, and ministry to our city and our world.

Missions @ fbc

MISSIONS FAIR

Sunday, October 13

Installation Service

October 27 @ 4 pm

2 | Connections

Kelly Stephens, Managing EditorCommunications Directorkelly@fbcgso.org / x223

Gloria Koster, Design ManagerEducation Ministry Assistant

gloria@fbcgso.org / x288

Steve Sumerel, Supervising EditorAssociate Pastor - Adult Learning

steves@fbcgso.org / x233

Teresa Allen, Media Library Directorteresaa@fbcgso.org / x229

Ginny Carpenter, Weekday School Directorginny@fbcgso.org / x240

Steve Cothran, Associate Pastor - Youth/Familiesstevec@fbcgso.org / x235

Dolores Donahue, Administrative Assistant - Financedolores@fbcgso.org / x226

Jane Anne Hayber, Music/Worship Assistantjaneanne@fbcgso.org / x239

Monica Hix, Pastoral Assistantmonica@fbcgso.org / x231

Marty Kellam, Food Services Directormarty@fbcgso.org / x245

Rosemary Kellam, Operations Directorrosemary@fbcgso.org / x225

Kate Kitchen, Homebound Ministry Directorkatek@fbcgso.org / 202-5757

Scott North, Business Administratorscott@fbcgso.org / x222

Steve Pressley, Associate Pastorstevep@fbcgso.org / x231

Virginia Reynolds, Assistant Pastor - Preschool/Childrenvirginia@fbcgso.org / x241

Alan Sherouse, Senior Pastoralan@fbcgso.org / x231

Marion Smith, Facilities Supervisor, x243

Doug Vancil, Associate Pastor - Music/Worshipdoug@fbcgso.org / x237

Terri Vancil, Assistant Pastor - Music/Worshipterri@fbcgso.org / x238

Shelly Worsley, Childcare Directorshelly@fbcgso.org / x293

www.fbcgso.org // 336.274.32861000 West Friendly Avenue

Greensboro, NC 27401

November Connections Deadline: October 21 Email news to kelly@fb cgso.org or bring it to the church offi ce.

October 2013

3 Insight | by Alan Sherouse –Installation Service of Senior Pastor Alan Sherouse

4 FBC Missions Fair –Operation Christmas Child Kick-Off | by Carolyn Clontz

5 Connect with Missions | by Chris Barbee

6-7 Connect with Children and Youth

–An Encouraging Blog for Parents of Young Children –New Books in the Children’s Library | by Teresa Allen

–Children’s Mission Opportunities | by Virginia Reynolds–Fall Family Skate Night | by Virginia Reynolds–Upward Registration | by Tommy Starnes–Youth Events | by Steve Cothran

8 Connect with Adults –Flu Shot Clinic

–PrimeTime October Program –Day Trip to Lazy 5 Ranch –October Adult Access Class Led by Alan Sherouse

9 Connect with Business –September Church Conference Actions

–Good Tax News for Seniors | Hal Koger –August Financial Update

10 Connect with One Another

11 October Calendar –Looking Ahead to November

12 Fall Family Fun Fest Equal Exchange

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the fi eld will clap their hands. (Isaiah 55.12)

October 2013 | 3

BY ALAN SHEROUSE

Installation Service for Rev. Alan SherouseSunday, October 27, 4 pm

An important part of calling a new pastor is the Service of Installation. This service is important because it clarifies and

underscores the pastor’s responsibility to the church as well as the church’s responsibility toward its pastor. This event is important to our congregation and our congregation is important to our community. Because of this, representatives of the faith and civic sectors will be joining us in this important event. The afternoon scheduling of the service allows area pastors and community leaders the opportunity to be a part of this service of worship and celebration. You are invited to this important service in the life of First Baptist. Join us, along with community pastors and leaders, on October 27 at 4 pm. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall for a time of celebration.

As I write to you, Jenny, Jack, Della and I are in the midst of settling into our new house. We’re painting rooms, unpacking boxes, working our way down

the checklist, and trying to find the perfect furniture as we transition from an apartment in Manhattan to 4 bedrooms in Fisher Park. We’re also learning the ins-and-outs of a house that turns 100 next year. Some days, we’re lucky just to find the lights! We love our house. It’s a wonderful place to receive neighbors and friends (old and new), and we love sitting on the porch where we can feel the fall air and listen to the neighborhood sounds of the bells at First Presbyterian, the drumline at NC A&T, and the trains that periodically run through downtown. My friend, Rev. Jonathan Friesen, has said that starting a pastorate at a new church is a lot like moving into a house. In fact, Jonathan’s church – Ellis Avenue Baptist – is located in an old house in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. I have thought about Jonathan’s image multiple times as I’ve simultaneously moved into a new house and a new church. As a pastor, I have been given a set of keys and opened the doors of a space that has been lived in and cared for by so many others over the years. At first, I am feeling my way around in the dark, all the while hoping not to bump into anything or break anything valuable. I’m in the process

of learning the ins-and-outs – the idiosyncracies – of a place that has so many layers of history and heritage. While I’ve lived in other houses before, they are ultimately different than this one I now call home. As I settle into this new home of First Baptist Church Greensboro, there is no more important task on the “to-do” list than to come to know all of you who were here before I ever turned the key. While there will be many casual opportunities to build our relationships in the days ahead, I also want to extend a formal invitation for you to join me in some small group settings over the next months. The deacons are helping to organize a series of “Fireside Chats,” where small groups within our church will gather with me in varying settings for fellowship and conversation for the purposes of knowing one another more and sharing our visions and hopes for our church. Watch for more information about how to be involved in “Fireside Chats” soon. All of us know that there is a lot of good and important work to do in the days ahead. But in the midst of the checklist, I hope you’ll take time to sit and enjoy the sounds and the feelings of this home that we share. We can feel wind rushing through this place, refreshing us. We can hear energetic conversation, stirring music, busy hallways, and echoing play. Taken together, it reminds us that we are home. Before long, I might even find the lights.

A sermon unit on the first moments of Jesus’ ministry, which set a course for

his life and the lives of his followers.September 22

Where to Begin (Mark 1:4-11)

September 29First Trial (Luke 4:1-13)

October 6First Miracle (John 2:1-11)

October 13First Sign of Trouble (Luke 4:14-30)

October 20First Followers (Mark 1:14-20)

Past sermons, including Alan’s first sermon, are available through the church office or on

our website: www.fbcgso.org/sermons

4 | Connections

Operation Christmas Child Kick-Off is Sunday, October 20Start packing your shoeboxes for our Operation Christmas Child church-wide mission project. Along with each box, please include $7 to pay for shipping (checks payable to Samaritan’s Purse). If you do not have time to shop and would like help with a shoebox, we have volunteers who will shop for you! Just bring a check for $27 (made out to FBC with OCC in the memo). Dedication day is on Sunday, November 24 in the Atrium following Worship.

Have you ever heard people say...“I didn’t even know that was happening – wow, I really would have liked to help with that.”

“I just heard on TV that Greensboro Urban Ministry really needs our help. I know our Sunday School can help, but how can I get the word out to others?”

“I keep hearing people talk about MISSIONS…but that term is used differently at my work. What does MISSIONS mean at FBC?”

As Christians, we believe that God wants us to help those in need, and to share the Good News of Christ anywhere and anytime that we can. Our Christian call to MISSIONS comes from Matthew 28:19 where God commands us to go out and make disciples of all peoples…and from Matthew 25:36 where God tells us to clothe the naked, visit the sick, go unto those in prison. Many places in the Bible remind us of the importance of being a Christian missionary, whether you are young or old, rich or poor. First Baptist Church members have a long history of “Doing Missions.” Currently, church members are involved in supporting many, many different organizations, projects, and groups. Individuals choose to travel alone or with a group to a missions site, children prepare breakfast bags for the Winter Emergency shelter, youth work together to help Greensboro Urban Ministries, an offering is taken on Christmas Eve to help a local organization in need…and all are carrying out the work of “Christian Missions.” Want to know more? The 2013 FBC Missions Fair will be held on Sunday, October 13, following the morning worship service. Lunch may be purchased for $6/person (family maximum $20) and a short Business Conference will be held. Tables will be set up around the Fellowship Hall for representatives from more than 30 groups to share their ministries including Divinity Schools, local non-profit organizations who share our mission, and the FBC teams and committees who support missions. Information will be shared in a variety of ways, and you will have an opportunity to sign up to help in the ways that fit your needs and schedule. Come join us for the FBC Missions Fair. You will find ways that you can get involved in Christian missions.If you have questions, contact Steve Sumerel (274.3286, x233/ steves@fbcgso.org ) or Davis Troxler (324.2375/ hamtrox@yahoo.com ).

Get onboard the FBC Missions Fair Sunday,

October 13

Connect with Missions

Come to the Missions Fair and get your ticket to win door prizes! You must be present to win.

October 2013 | 5

Connect with Missions

Greetings from the Barbees in Thailand!BY CHRIS BARBEE

F or those of you who do not know us, we are Chris, Dora, Natalie, and Foster Barbee (well, no one knows Foster yet since he was just born in Thailand last October!). I am the son of Phil Barbee, and stepson

of Laura Lomax, and we have had a special relationship with First Baptist ever since you all invited our worship band to come and play a concert at the church in 2007. Over the last 4 years we have lived and ministered in Thailand, and are honored that our FBC family has supported and cared for us in numerous ways along this journey.

>We live in a little city called Roi Et in the northeastern region of Thailand, called the Isaan region. Here we are blessed to serve as missionaries alongside a Thai foundation. We are working with K-12 students teaching English and music, building relationships, sharing the love of Christ, and worshipping together in a welfare school and several public schools. The vision for this ministry that God has shared with us is quite simple: seek to love Jesus with all of our hearts, and subsequently, live out the Light and Love of Jesus in community with the people of Roi Et, Thailand!

>According to The Joshua Project, the Isaan people of northeastern Thailand are considered unreached. The Northeast boasts a population of over 18 million people, of which 98.1% are Buddhist and only 0.4 % are Christian. The rest of Thailand has close to the same percentage, with some Islam and Hindu presence in certain pockets of the country. So, while the government and the people are officially open and accepting of all religious groups, the number of Christ followers is very small. We have only ever taught one student who had previously attended a church, so we have the incredible honor of being the first face of Christ that most of our students ever encounter. Just today in a classroom at our home school where we live, I had a senior in high school come up and ask me if this Jesus we talked about was a real person! I had the honor of saying, “Well, yes He is, and He wants to bless and transform your life just as He is doing to mine!”

>During the week, we are in and out of classrooms teaching English at the welfare school where we live 2 days a week, and in several other villages from Thursday through Saturday. I teach mostly secondary school (7th-12th grade classes) and music lessons, along with a special class for the teachers of our school, while Dora teaches a few primary and secondary classes, and a violin class in addition to taking care of our two active kids! On Sunday mornings, we help lead a worship time for children and youth from all the schools where we teach in our foundation’s English center. In the evenings on Wednesday, we teach a special class for students who want extra English learning time, followed by a Bible study. This is a youth group-style meeting with about 15 students in our home! It has become the most fruitful ministry time during our regular school calendar year, and in just 5 months, we have witnessed our students begin to respond thoughtfully to questions about scripture, life, and God. Most of these 15 students, along with a few others from other schools where we serve are currently preparing to join us for a 10-day Bible camp in Bangkok from October 12-21. We ask for your prayers over that time and for the students that attend, most of whom are becoming very interested seekers in the Kingdom of God.

>Please also pray as our team is undergoing a personnel change. Dora and I will be taking on more leadership responsibilities as our Thai team leader steps out to pursue other callings in her life. We know our FBC family understands the difficulty of transition, and we are joining you in praying that God does amazing new things in the life of FBC as you welcome your new pastor, Rev. Sherouse, into your family! We can’t wait to meet the Sherouse family when we come to visit you all on December 22. God bless you all!

>Please stay in contact with us on our website at www.powerinmeekness.org . Click the “Register” button on the right side to gain full access to all the content.

New Books in the Children’s Library BY TERESA ALLEN

– Snowmen All Year by Caralyn Buehner– Press Here by Hervé Tullet– Pete at the Beach by James Dean (My First I Can Read Book)– Play Ball! by James Dean (My First I Can Read Book)– I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen (Theodor Seuss Geisel

Honor Book)– Mind Your Manners, B.B. Wolf by Judy Sierra– Duck! Rabbit! By Amy Krouse Rosenthal

The following is a blog entry from I am totally *that* mom. We hope it encourages you on the Sunday mornings when you wonder whether packing up the little ones for church is really worth it.

Dear Parents with Young Children in Church http://www.iamtotallythatmom.blogspot.com/

You are doing something really, really important. I know it’s not easy. I see you with your arms overflowing, and I know you came to church already tired. Parenting is tiring. Really tiring.

I watch you bounce and sway trying to keep the baby quiet, juggling the infant carseat and the diaper bag as you find a seat. I see you wince as your child cries. I see you anxiously pull things out of your bag of tricks to try to quiet them. And I see you with your toddler and your preschooler. I watch you cringe when your little girl asks an innocent question in a voice that might not be an inside voice let alone a church whisper. I hear the exasperation in your voice as you beg your child to just sit, to be quiet as you feel everyone’s eyes on you. Not everyone is looking, but I know it feels that way. I know you’re wondering, is this worth it? Why do I bother? I know you often leave church more exhausted than fulfilled. But what you are doing is so important. When you are here, the church is filled with a joyful noise. When you are here, the Body of Christ is more fully present. When you are here, we are reminded that this worship thing we do isn’t about Bible Study or personal, quiet contemplation but coming together to worship as a community where all are welcome, where we share in the Word and Sacrament together. When you are here, I have hope that these pews won’t be empty in ten years when your kids are old enough to sit quietly and behave in worship. I know that they are learning how and why we worship now, before it’s too late. They are learning that worship is important. I see them learning. In the midst of the cries, whines, and giggles, in the midst of the crinkling of pretzel bags and the growing pile of crumbs I see a little girl who insists on going two pews up to share peace with someone she’s never met. I hear a little boy slurping (quite loudly) every last drop of his communion wine out of the cup determined not to miss a drop of Jesus. I watch a child excitedly color a cross and point to the one in the front of the sanctuary. I hear the echos of Amens just a few seconds after the rest of the community says it together. I watch a boy just learning to read try to sound out the words in the worship book or count his way to Hymn 672. Even on weeks when I can’t see my own children learning because, well, it’s one of those mornings, I can see your children learning. I know how hard it is to do what you’re doing, but I want you to know, it matters. It matters to me. It matters to my children to not be alone in the pew. It matters to the congregation to know that families care about faith, to see young people…and even on those weeks when you can’t see the little moments, it matters to your children. It matters that they learn that worship is what we do as a community of faith, that everyone is welcome, that their worship matters. When we teach children that their worship matters, we teach them that they are enough right here and right now as members of the church community. They don’t need to wait until they can believe, pray or worship a certain way to be welcome here, and I know adults who are still looking to be shown that. It matters that children learn that they are an integral part of this church, that their prayers, their songs, and even their badly (or perfectly timed depending on who you ask) cries and whines are a joyful noise because it means they are present. I know it’s hard, but thank you for what you do when you bring your children to church. Please know that your family–with all of its noise, struggle, commotion, and joy–are not simply tolerated, you are a vital part of the community gathered in worship.

–Away We Go! by Chieu Anh Urban (A Shape-and-Seek Book)–The Kiss Box by Bonnie Verburg–The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? by Mo Willems –That is not a Good Idea! by Mo Willems–First Big Book of Space by Catherine D. Hughes–Deep Sea Dive by Salina Yoon–Predators by Steve Parker–What Will I Be? by Nicola Davies–Reptiles and Amphibians by Simon Mugford–Emergency Vehicles by Penelope Arlon–Puppies and Kittens by Penelope Arlon

6 | Connections

Connect with Children

October 2013 | 7

Connect with Children and Youth

Missions education takes place at two levels: hearing about the people and places in God’s world; and then doing something with that knowledge. ACT on Missions and CBFNC Children’s Missions Day are opportunities to do BOTH. Contact the Children’s Ministry Office to learn more about these opportunities (274.3286, x241 or email Shelly Worsley ( shelly@fbcgso.org ) or Virginia Reynolds ( virginia@fbcgso.org ).

ACT for Missions4th-5th grades: Wednesday, October 162nd-3rd grades: Wednesday, February 19K-1st grades: Wednesday, March 19

ACT (All Christians Together) for Missions is an opportunity for children to take part in missions. Children in grades K-5 will come to church on a Guilford County Schools early dismissal Wednesday and enjoy a time of both hearing and doing. On an ACT for Missions day, participating children arrive at church beginning at 1:30 pm for snack and homework time. We will enjoy time learning about how CBF Field personnel are touching people around the world with the good news of Jesus’ love. We will also be involved in hands-on projects to share with people in the Triad area who need to experience the love of God as well. The afternoon plans will include a field trip to a “missions” spot nearby before returning for dinner and Kids’ Access. Interested adults may volunteer to chaperone, share a hands-on skill or share in our missions focus story. Mark your calendars and plan to attend when it’s your turn.

Reserve your ticket now for CBFNC Children’s Missions DaySaturday, November 16 @ FBC Raleigh

Climb aboard the People mover for a trip to CBFNC Children’s Missions Day. Join us for a one-day event for children in grades 1-5. Come learn about how God treats everyone the same…and we should too! This year’s visiting missionaries are Marc and Kim Wyatt, who minister to refugees, immigrants and international students in Canada. Cost is $10 and registration is due by October 13.

Fall Family Skate Night Friday, October 11, 6-8:30 pm, Gym/Café

Skates, music, pizza and friends are the recipe for our Fall Family Skate Night. FBC families are invited to an evening of fellowship and fun. Enjoy a mix of dinner and games in the Café and skating to the music of “Starnes on 45.” Do you have a young family you would like to introduce to the FBC community? This is a wonderful opportunity in a family-friendly environment to invite them to come and learn more about FBC. Please bring a bag of individually wrapped candy (for the Fall Family Fun Fest) and $3 per person for dinner. Skates are available in both children and adult sizes, or bring your own. Mark your calendar, invite a friend and we will see you at FBC’s Fall Family Skate Night.

Upward Registration begins October 1!BY TOMMY STARNES

Our Upward Basketball and Cheerleading ministry succeeds through the efforts of volunteers who pass out brochures, invite friends and neighbors, coach teams, referee games, and provide concessions, as well as volunteers who sponsor children who might be unable to participate otherwise. If you have any questions about volunteering or registering your children, please contact Upward Director Tommy Starnes: tstarnes@triad.rr.com / 274.3286, x251, or www.fbcgso.org/upward . The registration form is on the website.

Operation Christmas Child Shopping TripsHigh School -Sunday, October 20

We will leave FBC after Youth Choir at 6 pm to go shopping together. Bring $5 to shop at Dollar Tree and Target and enough money for a milkshake at Steak-N-Shake if you don’t have too much homework. Parents pick-up your kids at 7:30 pm at the Steak-N-Shake on Lawndale Drive.

Middle School -Wednesday, October 23

We will head to Target and Dollar Tree during Discipleship. Bring $5 to shop at Dollar Tree and Target and enough money to eat dinner at Steak-N-Shake. Parents pick-up your kids at 7:30 pm at the Steak-N-Shake on Lawndale Drive.

High School RetreatOctober 25-27 in Blowing Rock

High School youth will discover a deeper walk with God on this weekend in the NC mountains. $85 per person covers it all–food, lodging, and an afternoon Saturday of flying through the trees on zip lines! The deadline to sign-up is October 13! Online sign-up: www.fbcgso.org /youth or contact the youth office: 274.3286, ext. 288 or gloria@fbcgso.org .

Horrible Parents Club Sunday, October 6, 4 pm

Have you ever…felt overwhelmed or inadequate? Heard “why can’t you be cool like their parents?” Wondered if you were the only parent who felt this way? Then join us October 6 for the first meeting of the “Horrible Parents Club.” We’ll discover that we’re all in this together and that it’s never as “horrible” as it seems!

Youth Events…

8 | Connections

Connect with Adults

Explore 1st

Sundays, October 6, 13, 20, 27FBC Room 209, 9:15 am

A great way to find out what FBC is all about is our Explore 1st class. You will learn some FBC

history, our Baptist beliefs, meet staff, and connect with others interested in learning about the church. This is for visitors, non-members who are actively participating in the life of FBC, and new members wanting to learn more about our community of faith. Dr. Steve Pressley, Associate Pastor, and Dr. Steve Sumerel, Associate Pastor of Adult Learning, will co-facilitate Explore 1st. Questions: contact Monica Hix in the Pastor’s Office: monica@fbcgso.org / 274-3286, x231.

October 7 program:

FBC’s New Senior Pastor Alan SherousePrimeTime includes–9 am - Ceramics, Gym9:30 am - Prayer Shawl Knitting, 108-A11 am - Bible Study “Prayers of the Bible” with Dr. Pressley, 21812 noon - Lunch, 108.

Reservation deadline: October 3. Sign up online: www.fbcgso.org/seniors or contact Rosemary Kellam (274.3286, x225 /rosemary@fbcgso.org )

Day Trip Scheduled…Everyone is Invited to Go!

Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, NC onTuesday, October 22– The trip to Lazy 5 Ranch costs $15/person. Lunch will be “dutch treat” at the Brick House Tavern in Davidson. The menu includes soups and sandwiches from $10-$12. Leave FBC at 8:30 am and return at approx. 5:30 pm.

To sign up for this trip, contact Dolly Chesson (545.7712/schesson@triad.rr.com ) or Monica Vaughan (323.0335/edwinv550@aol.com ). You may alsosign up online using the “Events” link on the homepage: www.fbcgso.org .

New Wednesday Night Access Class in October

5 Things I’ve Learned Since SeminaryLed by Alan Sherouse Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:15 pm

Alan will lead a study and discussion of some emerging trends in American church life, reflecting autobiographically on his experiences in ministry prior to coming to FBC Greensboro. In 108.

FBC Flu Shot Clinic at FBCSunday, October 6, 12 noon

Fellow member Kathy Troxler, a licensed pharmacist with RiteAid, will be administering flu shots after worship on Sunday, October 6 in 102. Flu shots will be administered (by syringe only) to people 14 years of age and

older. She will bill to Medicare Part B, United Healthcare Medical, Aetna Medical, BCBS of NC, and Tricare. Those insurance companies cover the flu shot 100%. All others would be responsible to pay $29.99 at the time of the shot. The high dose flu shot will also be available at a cost of $55. Medicare covers the high dose for those patients 65 years old and older. Cash or checks made payable to Rite-Aid will be accepted. Contact Rosemary Kellam (274-3286, x 225/rosemary@fbcgso.org ) to schedule your appointment.

October 2013 | 9

Connect with Business

Actions Taken in the September Church Conference

T he monthly Church Conference took place following the worship service

on September 15, 2013. The following actions were taken–Dr. Stuart Allen, Finance Committee chair made the following motions:

• Motion #1: That the expenditure approval requirements for the Major Maintenance/Capital Improvement Fund be amended to authorize the Building and Grounds Committee to spend up to $5,000 per project up to the annual budget allocation amount per year. Action: The motion was approved.

• Motion #2: that all such expenditures will be reported to the Finance Committee, Deacons, and Congregation on a monthly basis.

Action: The motion was approved.

• Motion #3: projects over $5,000 and any amounts over the annual budget allocation will still require approval of the Finance Committee, Deacons, and Congregation.

Action: The motion was approved.

The September Lunch was provided by the High School Youth and families. Your generous support raised over $2,000 for the Mission tour in Romania.

August 2013 Receipts & Distributions Actual Budget Last YearAugust Budget Receipts $111,125 $126,888 $132,020YTD Budget Receipts $1,028,285 $1,095,781 $1,056,258YTD Budget Disbursements $1,149,908 $1,176,601 $1,086,002YTD Differential ($121,623) ($80,820) ($29,744)

Good Tax News for SeniorsBY HAL KOGER

If you are seventy and a half years old or older, this may be useful information. The IRS currently allows you to transfer funds directly from a qualified IRA directly to a church or charity tax free, and still claim the donation as part of

your minimum required distribution. The advantages of making this type of contribution to First Baptist include a reduction in your taxes, since it will not be included as income on your 1099-R, a possible lowering of your tax bracket, and best of all, it will be a simple way to make a one time annual contribution of your tithe. To take advantage of this tax break you must contact the trustee of your IRA and request the transfer directly to First Baptist, since the rules require the donation to be a direct transfer from the IRA to the church or it would not be tax-free. You will have to complete and sign a form provided by the IRA trustee, naming the amount to be donated and the name and address of our church. Then you could call our church office to tell them to expect the donation. They will close the loop by letting you know when the transaction is complete. Now for the bad news: unless Congress acts to extend this benefit to seniors, 2013 will be the last year for this specific tax break. More information can be obtained by reading about the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, or by calling the North Carolina Baptist Foundation (800.521.7334) and speaking to Bill Overby. He is the most knowledgeable person to whom I’ve talked about this issue.

August Financial UpdateAugust receipts were $15,000 below budget and $21,000 less than last August. Year-to-date budget receipts are about 6% below budget. While overall spending is below budget, expenses have still exceeded income by $121,623. Nevertheless, FBC maintains a strong operating cash balance. As mentioned in their recent letter, the Finance Committee will continue to monitor the pattern of receipts to set a responsible budget for 2014. Please remember that you can stay up-to-date with your giving by clicking the “Sign In” button at the top of the church web page at www.fbcgso.org . You can also give one time and regular on-going gifts online at www.fbcgso.org/give_to_fbc .

...for God loves a cheerful giver. 2nd Corinthians 9.7

10 | Connections

October Birthdays 1: Johanna Harris, Mark Miller, Elizabeth Murray 2: Elliott Bennett, Mary Howerton, Isabel McNally, Nate Moore, Cheryl Waynick 3: Richard Beavers, Anne Christian, Bob Kelley, Alexis Petitt, Gerry Pike 4: Kim Carpenter, Ernest Ferris, Jr. 5: Fred Binder, Jr., Joye Brannon, Robin Eatman, Vernon Keen, Nell Wilder 6: Chris Canipe, Laura Jones, Jean Lane, Ed Power, Jerry Thomas 7: Ethan Cole, Landyn Roberts, Dalton Thompson 8: Nancy Ayers, Meganne Gould, Hal Reaves 9: Lee King, Jason Knight, Lorri Wood 10: Anita Cranford, Steve Honeycutt, Christy Jones, Ruby Morris, Jennifer Roberts, Niki Shumaker, William Waters, Carol Wheeler 11: Harold Beavers, Tim Campbell, Carl Carpenter, Chris Hauselman, Lesley-Ann Hix, Courtney Key, Cecil Livengood, Kristen Massey, Virginia Reynolds, Bo Starnes, Graham Thompson 12: Alice Burch, Justin Childs 13: No FBC Birthdays 14: Leah Frost, Carol Stone 15: Kelly Cornett, Mary Krieg, Charlie Pannell, Tommy Starnes, Ken Tutterow, Meredith Twigg 16: Dottie Gordon 17: Erin Beavers, Coyet Bolen, Treva Mabe 18: Gayle Adams, Jack Bennett, Robert Caldwell, Charles Doss, Jim Ellis, Richard Payne, Jilien Steelman, Jacon Webb 19: Lee Royal, Elizabeth Shepherd, Shirley Thompson, Jacob Yaun 20: Robert Ingram, Jack Snow, Christopher Teague 21: Darrell Chambers, Bill Lusk, Linda Wayne, Geoff Waynick 22: Sharon Bennett, William Bennett, Carlee Capps, Randy Macon 23: Rob Godfrey, Cynthia Markham, James O’Bryant 24: Kristie Ellis, Christy Hardy 25: Debbie Bowman, Thomas Smith 26: Marissa Austin, Katie Cashion, Autumn Culbreth, Doris Hardy, Christopher Lyle, Jody Moore, Davis Troxler 27: Matt Greene, David Powell, Ben Turner 28: Charlie Adams 29: Luther Yaun 30: Quint Bradford, Scott Culclasure, Martha Hicks, Jack Swanson, Anita Wilson 31: Lisa Marsh, Bea Kay Powers, Angela Pray, Miller Townes, Richard Wiley

Niki Shumaker 10/10318 Woody, Charlottesville, VA 22904nrs4ly@virginia.edu

Courtney Key 10/11480 Ehringhaus Drive, Koury Hall, Room 311Chapel Hill, NC 27514 /cakey@live.unc.edu

Bo Starnes 10/1116300 Sullivan Hall, Raleigh, NC 27607cstarne@ncsu.edu

William Bennett 10/22Station CB#21229, 601 S. College RoadWilmington, NC 28407/ illwillb42@triad.rr.com

Thomas Smith 10/25206 Adams Street, Apt. 4, Greensboro, NC 27401thmosmith@gmail.com

If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (1st Corinthians 12:26)

Connect with One Another

Bereaved • The family of Frances Lake, on August 29• The family of Earl Lanning, on August 29• Wanda Barnett in the loss of her

brother-in-law, John Lorence, on September 1

• Art Shackelford in the loss of his brother-in-law, Norman Smith, on September 2

• Carolyn Ripley in the loss of her brother, Everett Ellington, on September 3

• The family of Jean Kalpagian, on September 18

• The family of Juanita Lowe, on September 19

• The family of Lib Jessup, on September 22• Brey Curtis in the loss of his

grandmother, Evelyn Curtis, on September 23

Welcome New Baby!Edward Henry CarrBorn: September 5Proud Parents: Heather and Stephen Carr

Responding to the Invitation on September 22

Responding to the Invitation on September 22

Responding to the Invitation on September 22

Lew Drumm By Letter

Amy and Jason KnightBy Statement

(Joshua, Jacob, and Emma Grace)

Alan and Jenny SherouseBy Letter

(Jack and Della)

October 2013 | 11

•Sundays, October 6, 13, 20, 27– Explore 1st. 209, 9:15 am (see page 8)

•Sunday, October 6– Flu Shot Clinic. 102, 12 noon (see page 8)

•Monday, October 7– PrimeTime. 9 am - Noon activities. (see page 8)

• Friday, October 11– Fall Family Skate Night. Gym/Cafe, 6 pm (see page 7)

• Sunday, October 13– Conference/Lunch/Missions Fair. 108, 12 noon (see page 4)

• Wednesday, October 16– ACT for Missions. 1:30 - 5:30 pm (see page 7)

•Sunday, October 20– Operation Christmas Child Kick-Off (see page 4)

•Tuesday, October 22– Lazy 5 Day Trip. (see page 8)

• October 25-27– High School Fall Retreat. (see page 8)

•Sunday, October 27– Installation Service of Senior Pastor Alan Sherouse. Sanctuary, 4 pm (see page 3)

Key: •Adults •All Ages •Children •Seniors •Weekday School •Worship •Youth

Sunday AM @FBC•Bible Study - 9:15 am•Worship - 10:30 am•Guest Reception - 11:45 am (209)

Sunday PM @FBC• Youth Bells I & II, 4 pm•Following Christ, 3:30 pm (begins Oct. 6)•Children’s Bells, 5 pm (begins Oct. 6)•Children’s Bible Drill, 6 pm

(begins Oct. 6)• Youth: MS Discipleship & HS

Choir, 5 pm• Youth Snack Supper• Youth: MS Choir & HS

Discipleship, 6 pm• Adult Bells I, 6 pm• Sanctuary Choir, 7 pm• Instrumental Ensemble

(3rd Sundays), 7 pm

Wednesdays@FBC•Fellowship Meal - Dinner is served between 5-6:30 pm•Kids’ Access - 6 pm•Youth Forum - 6:15 pm•Adult Access Classes - 6:15 pm•Sanctuary Choir - 7:15 pm

Regular Weekly Schedule

Wednesday Fellowship

Meal Menus October 2: Bourbon Glazed Ham, Mac & Cheese, Stewed Apples, Salad Bar // Kids: Corn DogOctober 9: Fried Fish, Cole Slaw, Baked Potato, Salad Bar // Kids: Fish StixOctober 16: Grilled Marinated Pork Loin, Squash Casserole, Au Gratin Potatoes, Salad Bar // Kids: PB&J and Mini CarrotsOctober 23: Baked Spaghetti, Garlic Bread, Salad Bar // Kids: Spaghettio’s with Meat BallsOctober 30: BBQ Chicken, Baked Beans, Butter Poached Potatoes, Salad Bar //Kids: Chicken Toes

October@FBC

The leaves change their colors, but we know that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Heb. 13.8)

Looking Ahead

to November...• Saturday, November 2:

Fall Family Fun Fest, 3 - 5 pm• Sunday, November 3:

All Saints Service of Remembrance• Monday, November 4:

PrimeTime, 9 am - Lunch• Friday, November 15:

Happy Hearts Thanksgiving Dinner, 6 pm• Saturday, November 16:

CBFNC Children’s Missions Day @ FBC Raleigh

• Sunday, November 17: Upward Prayer Breakfast, 8:30 am

• Sunday, November 24: Operation Christmas Child Dedication

• Tuesday, November 26: Thanksgiving Dinner, 6 pm

First Baptist Church Greensboro1000 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27401www.fb cgso.org

NON-PROFIT

ORGANIZATION

US POSTAGE PAID

GREENSBORO, NC

NO. 179

FUN FESTSaturday, November 2 // 3-5 pm On a crisp, clear day every fall visitors–adults and children–are introduced to FBC at our Fall Family Fun Fest. You can help them know that God is alive and that they are loved and welcomed by FBC! We need volunteers to staff games, do pumpkin and face painting, the doughnut bob, as well as just to wander around and smile! We also need help setting up tables and games beforehand and cleaning up afterward. Of course everyone can bring donated bags of Halloween candy and drop them off in the church office. Questions: stevec@fbcgso.org / 274.3286, x235.

Coffee & Chocolate! The High School Youth will be selling delicious coffee, tea, chocolate, and other products from October through the end of November to raise money for their mission trip to Romania. These products are grown by small-scale farmers who are providing for their families, improving their communities, and caring for their land through fair trade. Equal Exchange is making a difference in the lives of small farmers and artisans across the globe.

Questions: Kelly Stephens - sprytwin@aol.com or 288-9183.

Check us out at our Missions Fair

booth! We will have coffee

and chocolate to sample and purchase.