Published: April 10, 2006 02:46 pm      

Church News week of April 7

Hillcrest Church of Christ

New Bible Class

Special new Bible classes began April 2. The first class is designed for young adults, including college age through ages 30 to 35; (meeting in Room 12). The new class will be 'team Taught' by Russell Lamb, Tom Cheaney and Gary Conner. The class is designed to address their Christian walk, both for singles, as well as married couples, as they meet the challenges of daily living

David Gray, minister, will begin a new study with the adult class (ages 36 through 65), which meets in the fellowship hall covering topics of “Family Living” from a Bible perspective.

The Senior Christian Class, meeting in the chapel, will welcome Troy Edes as their new teacher for this period. Study will be taken from the New Testament. Considering the extremely important role our seniors play in setting an example for the young of our congregation, his lessons will bring new perspective to our walk with Christ.

"Why We Do What We Do"

Continuing with the interesting study, as presented by Minister David Gray, of why the Churches of Christ are a people of restoration spirit, wanting to restore, in our time, the original New Testament Church. In doing so we have begun the study of the 'autonomy' (self-rule) of each congregation of Christians, as did the first century Christian Church.

We covered the topic of the selection of Elders who lead each congregation, according to scriptural examples shown when the inspired Apostle Paul 'appointed Elders in each of the churches he and Barnabas had established.' (Acts 14:23). Elders serve the spiritual needs of the church.

This week, we will discuss Deacons who are appointed to serve the material needs of the local church. The Greek term 'diakonos' is translated from scripture, as 'servant'. This same word is also translated as 'minister'. From these scriptural uses of 'diakonos', we get a glimpse of their responsibilities. A Deacon serves as a servant; as a courier who delivers an important message. But Deacons are also distinguished as a particular group of men selected from within the congregation. They are selected to perform specific ministries for the congregation. Their qualifications are found in 1 Timothy 3.

In the Book of Acts 6, we read where a specific need arose in the church at Jerusalem, which dealt with the fact the widows were in need of food, which was not being distributed fairly. The congregation took their problem to the Apostles to seek advice, (Acts 6:2-4). Although their primary duty to the church was prayer and ministry of the word of God, they were concerned about the welfare of those in need.

Therefore, the Apostles dealt with the problem of delegating this material need to qualified men, who could serve the church and its physical needs. This model offers insight into the purpose of Deacons in the church today.

Next week, please join us again, to learn more of the specific duties of the Deacons of the church and their role, as outlined in Scriptures.

We welcome everyone to join us, this coming Lord's Day, as we study the Bible in our classes, as well as join us in worship at 10 a.m. Sunday. You will find our church home at 1712 East O'Neal Street in Gainesville.



Temple Baptist

“Reaching Out In Love”

Temple Baptist Church welcomes you to come and worship the Lord with us.

Sunday

8:15 a.m. Early Worship Service

9:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages

10:45 a.m. Late Worship Service

3:30 p.m. Youth Worship Team

4:30 p.m. Adult Choir

5 p.m. Conversational Spanish

5:30 p.m. AWANA

6 p.m. Evening Worship

7 p.m. Women’s Ministry Meeting

Monday

6:30 p.m. Easter Drama Rehearsal

Tuesday

9 a.m. Ladies’ Morning Bible Study

6:30 p.m. Easter Drama Rehearsal

Wednesday

5:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Meal

6:30 p.m. Bible Study

6:30 p.m. Women & Co-ed Bible Studies

6:30 p.m. TBYC

6:30 p.m. Children Choir

6:30 p.m. Easter Drama Rehearsal

Thursday

6:30 p.m. Easter Drama Staging

Saturday

10:15 a.m. D.A.S.H., Youth

7 p.m. “More Than Just A Man”

Coming Events

Many people helped with the lunches at the habitat house. Our work crew is down to a few people so we do not need people to bring lunches for the next few weeks. When the work crews get bigger, we will need your help again.

The church office is in the middle of installing a new phone system. If you call and get accidentally disconnected or are sent to the voice mail system, please call back. We appreciate your patience as we work out all the kinks.

Spring Ladies’ Retreat is set April 7-8 at Camp Copass in Denton. Laurie Miracle will share “Battling the Busyness Bugs”. There is a cost. Reserve your space starting March 5, space is limited.

Every year we decorate the church with Easter lilies. You can purchase one in honor or memory of someone, a Secret Pal, or someone special. After the Easter service, you may take them home with you. All information and money needs to be given to Cathey Blakey by April 5.

It is time to start another Youth Lead Team. There are sign up sheets in the Welcome Center.

Annual Men’s Fish Fry at 6:30 p.m. April 7 in the CLC Hall. No charge. Come and bring a friend. The guest speaker will be Allan Crone, weatherman for KXII Channel 12 in Sherman. No sign up is necessary.

The Adult Choir will present the Easter drama “More Than Just A Man” at 7 p.m. April 8 and at 6 p.m. April 9. Come and see how He changed history, one person at a time.

For the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 15, we need you to bring plastic eggs with individually wrapped candy inside. The collection tubs are in the Fellowship Hall and the CLC. We need a few volunteers to come the morning of the egg hunt and hide eggs on the church lawn. See Josh if you would like to help.

We will be taking pictures May 2-6 for our new pictorial directory. If you would like to help with sign-up or calling, please put your name on the list at the Welcome Center.

For any information concerning these programs, contact the office 665-9789 or www.tbcgainesville.org



Mt. Pleasant Baptist

On April 2, 2006, Pastor Lewis Acrey brought an outstanding sermon of God's love for us. Can a Christian ever really know that Heaven awaits him? Yes, because truly saved people never lose their salvation. God gave His best for us because he loves us. His best was his only Son, Jesus

1 Corinthians 3:10-15 instructs Christians to build on the foundation of Jesus Christ. If a saved one has worked for God, he shall receive many rewards. However, if a Christian does not build on the foundation, he will still be saved, but lose rewards.

God has placed solid rocks under us. The first rock is His word in the Bible. God can never lie, and He can do no wrong. Trust Him to keep his promises. To learn more about God's perfect way and His plan for you, read these passages from the Bible: Psalm 18:30, John 10:22-30, Romans 8:35-39, 1 John 5:9-15. These are just a sampling of Biblical verses that emphasize the promises God has made.

Hear about the second rock God has placed under his children next Sunday as Bro. Lew continues with this series of sermons. His next topic explains how a Christian may sin but without enjoyment.

Scheduled Events

Business Meeting at 6 p.m. April 9 with fellowship and snacks.

Easter Sunday Services with Communion on April 16.

Youth Sunday for April 30 is in the planning. Graduating seniors will be honored.

Also in the planning stage is a Wednesday night service for prayer and Bible study.

You are welcome to attend these services. Just look for the little white church with the steeple at 14777 S. FM 372; Valley View, TX 76272. Mt. Pleasant is just a few miles south of the Mt. Springs store. For more information, call 940-637-2371 and leave a message. It will be answered promptly.

Sunday School for all ages begins at 10 a.m. followed by church at 11 a.m. Sunday. Our nursery for ages 3 and younger will be open for both services.



St. Mary’s Catholic

All those attending the Palm Sunday Services on Sunday are asked to come to the gym for the distribution and blessing of the palms. The celebrant will read the Gospel of Mark 11:1-10 telling about Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem.

Jesus’ final entrance into Jerusalem begins with the people recognizing him as King, thus they shouted out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” There was great excitement and wonder as the people welcomed Jesus. The whole city was “stirred to its depths.” It was a triumphant day, for the people have been genuinely touched by Jesus’ presence, and through Him came to know God’s love and forgiveness.

The entry into Jerusalem is also an entry into the passion and death of Jesus. The congregation will enter church together to hear the reading of Christ’s passion from the gospel of Mark 14:1-15,47. In the passion reading, we will hear about the sharing of a final meal, the betrayal of one of his disciples, the denial of Peter who was close to him, the rejection from the crowd that earlier welcomed him, the beatings and mockery Jesus endured, and his death on the cross.

The RCIA elect and candidates are entering into the last stage of preparation for their entrance into the church and the reception of the sacraments of initiation. They will have a retreat beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 9 in the parish hall.

The congregation will enter into the Holiest Week of the Christian Church’s liturgical calendar with Palm Sunday. The Triduum is the peak day of this Holy Week with the celebration of Holy Thursday Mass and Good Friday service at 7 p.m. each night. Easter Vigil is at 7:30 p.m. The Masses for Easter Sunday are at 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and the Hispanic Mass at 1 p.m.

Holy Thursday Mass at 7 p.m. will commemorate the institution of the Holy Eucharist, and Holy Orders. Twelve parishioners will have their feet washed to model Jesus in the Gospel of John to serve others. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will take place from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to keep awake and spend some time with Jesus in prayer as the Eucharist is kept in the repository side altar. The procession at the end of Thursday Mass signifies Jesus’ walk to Mount Olive where he begins his passion.

Good Friday service at 7 p.m. recalls Jesus’ death on the cross. This is the only day of church year that there is no Mass celebrated through the entire Catholic Church. The service is composed of the Passion reading, the veneration of the Cross, and the reception of Holy Communion. On Good Friday, it is good to pause and remember the three hours Jesus hung on the cross. The Stations of the Cross are set for 2 p.m. on Good Friday.

On Holy Saturday, the Easter Vigil, the mother of all vigil according to St. Augustine, will begin at 7:30 p.m. with the Service of Light in front of the rectory. The new fire and the lighting of the Paschal Candle are symbols of the resurrection. The three additional readings of salvation history, the Easter proclamation (Exsultet), the blessing of the water, the baptisms and renewal of one’s baptismal promises, and the reception of the sacraments of initiation also symbolize the resurrection of Christ. It is truly the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection.



First Baptist

"Love Letters from God"

This Sunday Dr. Mark Denison will continue his series of timely messages on "Love Letters from God." This is a great journey on a path of encouragement. We have seen that God is on our side! He loves you and has a great plan for your life! He has created you to be a champion. This Sunday, at 9 and 10:30 a.m., we will study “Love Letter #6 — I'm Enough!”. God's Word offers hope to every person who is battling anything in life. Whatever you do, don't quit!

Join us Sunday, as we share God's answer to life's problems.

Easter Eggstravaganza

This is for kids and their parents! Cooke County's biggest Easter egg hunt starts at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Join us at the church Activities Building for a great time of fun and surprises. Hundreds of children and families will experience the joy of Easter, under the ministry of our children's minister, Rev. Steve Sims. Come hungry, and you won't be disappointed. We have something for everyone. Bring your kids and your neighbor's kids.

This will be one Easter they will never forget!

"God Still Does Miracles"

On Easter Weekend, April 15 and 16, we will begin a journey into the miracle-working power of the Almighty! We will offer three great Easter services this year! Join us at 6 p.m. Saturday or at 9 or 10:30 a.m. Sunday. We will have incredible drama, special music, and a message on miracles.

"God Still Does Miracles" is a new four-part series of messages from our pastor, Dr. Mark Denison. You will discover the ways God wants to bless your life and do a miracle. Do you need a miracle? Join us and see the ways the God of the resurrection can bring life to your problems today!



St. Paul’s Episcopal

The young people of St. Paul's Church School have been very busy during this season of Lent. The curriculum they are studying has taken a different day of Holy Week as their Sunday lesson.

One Sunday they made donkeys from clothes pins. Two for the feet and body and one for the head and ears. They glued eyes and a button nose on the head and a piece of yarn for the tail. Then they cut out felt to represent the garments that the disciples put on the donkey's back so that Jesus could sit on the donkey as He rode into Jerusalem.

They studied the Triumphal Entry and learned that it was the fulfilment of the prophesy in Zechariah 9:9 that says: "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on an ass, on a colt the foal of an ass."

Another Sunday they studied Maundy Thursday and the Last Supper and made cups for the Seder supper that Jesus used to institute the Holy Communion.

Throughout Lent the students have been making and equipping first aid kits. These kits contain bandages, Band-Aids, antiseptic swabs, scissors, cotton wool, and other essentials. These will be distributed to the needy.

You may not have noticed, but the front doors of the church are getting a new coat of paint. Carl and Sandra Ploeger put the first coat of paint on the doors last Friday and a second coat will be coming soon. Carl has been working trying to preserve the doors first before painting.

In March, St. Paul's hosted a minister's prayer meeting at 8:30 a.m. each Thursday. The group has decided to remain at St. Paul's during the month of April. All ministers are welcome to attend.

St. Paul's will host an Easter Egg Hunt after the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Easter Day. The adults will enjoy an Easter Brunch that replaces our usual Third Sunday Covered Dish event. Those attending Easter services are urged to remember canned and packaged food for VISTO.

Lessons

Passion (Palm) Sunday

The Liturgy of the Palms

St. Mark 11:1-11a, Jesus enters Jerusalem

The Liturgy of the Passion

Isaiah 45:21-25, "Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth!"

Psalm 22:1-11, "But as for me, I am a worm and no man."

Philippians 2:5-11, "At the name of Jesus every knee should bow."

St. Mark 14:32-15:47, St Mark's narration of the Crucirfixion

Sunday

The Sunday of the Passion (Palm Sunday)

Palm Sunday Liturgy and Mass 8 a.m.

Coffee Hour 9 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

Youth Church School 10:15 a.m.

Palm Sunday Liturgy and Mass 10:30 a.m.

Coffee Hour at noon

Monday

Women of St. Paul 6:15 p.m.

Tuesday

Bishop's Chrism and Collegiality Mass

St. Vincent's Cathedral 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday

Holy Eucharist 6 p.m.

Maundy Thursday

Holy Eucharist 6 p.m.

Stew Supper 7 p.m.

Holy Watch 7 p.m. - ?

Good Friday

(Office Closed)

Stations of the Cross at noon

Good Friday Liturgy 6 p.m.

Holy Saturday

Altar Guild 9 a.m.

Holy Saturday Liturgy 6 p.m.

Sunday

The Sunday of the Resurrection (Easter Day)

First Mass of the Resurrection 8 a.m.

Coffee Hour 9 a.m.

Adult Bible Study will not meet this Sunday

Youth Church School 10:15 a.m.

Second Mass of the Resurrection 10:30 a.m.

Brunch and Egg Hunt at noon



Valley View UMC

Join us at Valley View Methodist Church next Sunday as Pastor Mark Long continues his series on Authentic Christianity with his sermon “O Jerusalem.” The scripture lesson will be Matthew 23:37-39.

Services are at 11 a.m. Sunday. Youth meet at 5 p.m. Sunday. Ladies Bible study meets from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.



Grand Avenue Baptist

Eddie Ramsey opened the morning worship in prayer.

We wished Julia Allen and Nancy Striplin a happy birthday.

Ann Scivally at the grand piano played a lovely solo arrangement of “The High and the Mighty”, a favorite of Larry Payne's.

Deacons Rick Collett and Al Latham took up the offering while brothers Isaiah and Eric Trail pulled the little red wagon to collect the pennies.

Bro. Bill Black's sermon was from John 3:1-12, where Nicodemus came to Jesus by night to ask questions. When Jesus told him he must be born again, this was not an unfamiliar term to him. Proselyte Jews were commonly called born again so Nicodemus would have understood this term. Jesus likened the results of being born again to seeing the results of the wind blowing, we cannot see the wind, but we can see its results. Today, we search for answers as Nicodemus did.

We will have a business meeting after the evening service Sunday.

Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m. followed by Worship Service at 10:40 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday.

We meet at 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Associate Pastor Benny Strong is leading a study of Proverbs and Associate Pastor Kevin Sandman has the youth get-together.

We welcome you to join us at 600 N. Grand Ave. in Gainesville as we praise and worship a risen Savior.

Divine Mercy Sunday

Divine Mercy Sunday service is set for 2 p.m. April 23 at St. Peter’s Church in Lindsay with Fr. Kyle Walterscheid. Confessions will be heard from 1 to 2 p.m.

There will be no mass at the service.

A special Blessed Image of Jesus, the Lord of Divine Mercy and First Class relic of St. Faustina, will be present for veneration, as well as exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.

Novena and recitation of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for nine days preceding the Feast (beginning on Good Friday). Novena booklets may be obtained at St. Peter’s Church in Lindsay and nearby churches in this area, along with instructions on the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

For more information, call (940) 759-2870.



Vilott Baptist

The annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Fun Day begins at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Kids, be sure to bring your Easter egg basket and be ready to find the colorful eggs. We will have a separate area for the very young children. Lots of Easter eggs will be hidden and ready for the children to find them.

There will be a number of activities, including making kites and kite flying competitions, a small petting zoo, dominos, games, and a story time. Sandwiches and finger foods will be provided. Everyone is welcome, so gather up the kids, the teenagers, grandpa and grandma and come have a fun-filled, family fun day.

The monthly church business meeting will be at 6 p.m. Sunday. All members are encouraged to attend.

Come join us as we begin Easter Sunday with a Sunrise Service at the church at 7 a.m. to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Following the service we will enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by the ladies of Vilott. The regular Sunday schedule of Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. will be observed.

The COPD Support Group meets at 10 a.m. the second and fourth Mondays each month. Contact Linda Kirkpatrick for more information.

The family meal is at 6 p.m. Wednesday. At 7 p.m., the children meet for AWANA, adults have Bible study and prayer time, and an adult small group meets.

A Small Group Bible Study meets at 10 a.m. each Thursday followed by lunch. This is a great time of study and fellowship. Contact Cindy Hill for details.

You are always welcome at Vilott Baptist Church. We are located at 15292 FM 678, 2 miles east of Callisburg. The church telephone number is 665-1629.



Faith Lutheran

Members of Faith Lutheran Church welcome everyone to join us in worship at our regular service at 10 a.m. with the Gospel from Mark 15:1-39.

Sunday School classes are available for children of all ages and Bible Study class is available for adults. These classes begin at 9 a.m. Sunday. For those who wish to arrive at 8:45 a.m. Sunday, coffee, orange juice, doughnuts, and music will be enjoyed.

On this Palm Sunday, Carter Wayne Brown, son of Brendan and Cyndi Brown; Jimmy Dale Smith, son of Jimmy and Tammy Smith; and Rebecca Diane Winter, daughter of Roger and Ronda Winter, will be confirmed during the worship service. A reception to honor the confirmands will be in the Fellowship Hall after the worship service.

In Faith’s church family, John Morris, Arvil Pugh, Julie Steelman, and Caylee Turner will celebrate birthdays this week. We pray special blessings on them.

On Wednesday, April 12, the Ladies’ Morning Bible Study group will meet at 9:30 a.m. and choir practice will begin at 5:30 p.m.

In observance of Holy Week, a Maundy Thursday service will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 13, and a Good Friday service will begin at 7 p.m. Friday, April 14.

Helping Hands of Faith, a mission of Faith Lutheran Church, is located at 719 Smith Street (the old Schmitz Shoe Factory Building). Run by volunteers, the thrift store uses the money made from sales to provide help to charitable organizations such as CASA, Habitat for Humanity, VISTO, Friends of the Family, the Girl Scouts, and 10 area fire stations. Clothing is also sent to Mexico and New Mexico for those people in need. Ladies of the church have sewn turbans for chemotherapy patients; these turbans are offered free of charge. The store hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays. Please stop by to visit with us.

If there is any way that Pastor Scott Sundbye or Faith Lutheran Church may serve you, please let us know. Faith Lutheran Church is located at 1823 N. Luther Lane, which is north of Highway 82, across the highway from Scivally’s East Grocery Store. The church number is 668-7147. Pastor Sundbye’s home number is 612-5552.

Bible Verse of the Week: “He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge.” (Psalms 144:2)



First Presbyterian

The first activity of the First Presbyterian Church of Gainesville is the Prayer Quilt at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 8.

The church is at the corner of Church and South Denton with the Rev. John Hare and Pat Price as pulpit assistant.

The sermon for this Sunday is "Mission Impossible". The service begins at 10:30 a.m. Children's Sunday School follows the children's sermon from the sanctuary. Adult Sunday school is at 9 a.m. and 9:15 a.m.

The Seekers Class at 9 a.m. will be studying a unit on "Living with Creation's Uncertainty" with such studies as "When Tragedy Occurs", “When All Seems Hopeless", "God Responds With Life", "Finding Life's Meaning", and "In God's Time".

On Tuesday is the Lion's Club Board meeting at 4 p.m.; at 4:30 p.m. is the North Central Texas Children's Chorus practice; and at 5:45 p.m. is the North Central Texas Women's Chorus practice.

On Wednesday, the Pra-yers Group meets at 5:30 p.m.; the Congregational Care, the Stewarship, and the Worship & Music Committees will meet at 6 p.m., as well as the Youth Group. Choir is at 7 p.m.

The "Maundy Thursday" Service is at 7 p.m. April 13. Communion will be served followed by the "Service of Tenebrae" during which time the sanctuary will be darkened to remember Jesus' death on the cross.

The Youth Group will go to Six Flags and have a lock-in on Saturday, April 15.

The brand new XYZ Group led by Larry and Connie Glover meets at noon April 20 with a bingo party.

Please call the church office for more information at 665-5153 from 8:30 to noon Monday through Friday or e-mail: fpcgaines@sbcglobal.net or visit at:www.presbyteriangainesville.org.



Mission UMC

We enjoyed our musical guests on Sunday. The Master's Touch, an American Indian group from Oklahoma City came to sing and give testimony for our church.

Others helping in the service were Destiny Eugster, La Donna Mathews, Brent Eugster, Joanne Zippay and Mat Mathews.

Rev. Roslyn Eugster directed Prayer Time and gave the charge to the congregation and benediction. A special time of remembrance and Holy Communion will be observed this Sunday for Palm Sunday. It will be a very special service and everyone is welcome to come join us in celebrating Palm sunday.

Easter Sunday will begin with an Easter egg hunt for the children at 10:30 a.m, and regular worship at 11 a.m. April 23, Rev. Tom Ridlehuber will be our speaker and April 20, Ralph Slader, a motivational speaker, will bring the message. A lunch will follow in the fellowship room of the church.

Mission Church is located at 1305 Culberson St. in Gainesville, and welcomes all visitors to our Sunday School at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. each Sunday. Holy Communion is an open communion and is observed the first Sunday of each month. Re. Roslyn Eugster serves as pastor of the church.



Family Life

Meeting Oral Roberts

Family Life Church Pastors Larry and Kathy Eberhart were honored to be the guests of the legendary Dr. Oral Roberts, founder of Oral Roberts University and worldwide ministry.

By invitation only, Pastors Larry and Kathy were welcomed into his home in California. For more than three hours, Dr. Roberts visited and shared his life with them. He talked about his successful marriage of 66 years to Evelyn and how they maintained such a good relationship and ministered to the millions. He also spoke about how the Lord instructed him to build Oral Roberts University. Dr. Roberts continues to spread the Gospel, and at the age of 88, he also has a new book coming out within months.

At the end of this once-in-a-lifetime session, Dr. Roberts asked each person (in the group of 19 pastors, spouses and businessmen) what he could pray with them about concerning their life and ministry.

Pastors Larry and Kathy sat before him on a stool as he laid hands on them and prayed.

“He has a great sense of humor and passion causing our emotions to go from laughter to crying to laughter,” Pastor Eberhart said.

Pastors Larry and Kathy’s dear friends, Harry and Cheryl Salem (Miss America 1980), organized this wonderful meeting with Dr. Roberts. Harry worked for him for 25 years until he and Cheryl began ministering together. Dr. Roberts said he holds the Salems dear to his heart.

“We will never forget this wonderful honor and opportunity to meet with such a great man of God,” Pastor Eberhart told the congregation after their return. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime event and a childhood dream of Kathy’s.”

Easter Celebration

Family Life Church will begin its Easter celebration Palm Sunday, and Wednesday, April 12, the church will host a special communion service.

At the end of the service, Passover candy treats will be given. Passover begins at sundown on Wednesday.

On Friday, April 14, FLC’s Young Warriors group (kids from the age of 8 to 12) will have a lock-in at the church with a special theme and decorations mirroring the Jerusalem Market Center. There will be special Jewish music, costumes and food centered on the marketplace theme based upon the life and time of Jesus.

On April 15, the Extreme Life Teens will take a trip to Six Flags Over Texas for a day of fun. That evening, they will attend a special concert featuring the band “Mercy Me.”

The Extreme Life Teens recently unveiled the new teen house. Under the direction of teen minister, Penny Wallace, the teen house has been remodeled and decorated. An Open House will be hosted in the coming weeks. Wallace was honored on Sunday, April 2, with a bouquet of flowers and a gift card for all of her hard work and support of the FLC teens.

On April 16, Family Life Church will celebrate Resurrection Sunday, with a special music presentation and sermon in the sanctuary. The Kids Zone children have been taught the meaning of Easter for the past several weeks. On Resurrection Sunday, they will have fun with an Easter egg hunt of more than 400 eggs, followed by the concluding lesson regarding Easter.

Family Life Church Services and Special Groups:

Sunday School Programs: 9:45 a.m. (nursery provided)

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m. (nursery provided)

Wednesday Night Service: 7 p.m. (nursery provided)

Kids Zone (ages 4 to 7): every Sunday morning and Wednesday night

Young Warriors (ages 8 to 12): every Sunday morning and Wednesday night

Extreme Life Teens led by Joe and Penny Wallace (940) 665-7987

Young Adults led by Louis and Sherry Kemp (940) 668-8762

Winning Widows led by Sharon Prestage (940) 668-2427

Firm Foundation Class led by Gary Baldridge (940) 668-7495

Kingdom Now Class led by Vernon Smith (940) 665-7800

Come Worship with Us

Pastor Larry and Kathy Eberhart welcome you to come and worship with the Family Life Church family (905 E. Cloud Street in Gainesville). Our Sunday School programs begin at 9:45 a.m., followed by Praise and Worship in the sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. Our Wednesday night service begins at 7 p.m.



First Christian

You’re invited to “A Time for Alleluia”, First Christian Church’s Easter cantata, at 10 a.m. this Sunday, April 9 at 401 N. Dixon in Gainesville. Join us for this special Palm Sunday service that delivers all the passion and victory of Christ's stirring journey of faith. A nursery is provided for little ones; so don’t miss it. You’re sure to be moved.

Palm Sunday commemorates the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem in the days before his crucifixion. In Jesus’ time, it was a common custom to cover, in some way, the path of someone thought worthy of the highest honor. All of the Gospels affirm that people gave Jesus this honor. Matthew, Mark, and Luke describe people laying their garments and cut rushes on the street. John is the only Gospel to specifically mention palm branches, which is a symbol of triumph and victory. This detail of the palm branches and the scene of the crowd greeting Jesus as he entered Jerusalem by waving palm fronds, and carpeting his path with them, has given the day its name. So let us begin Holy Week by welcoming in our King and Lord, Jesus Christ, on this Palm Sunday.

Holy Week

Maundy Thursday service will begin at 7 p.m. April 13 in the Sanctuary to commemorate Jesus’ last supper. The word "maundy" comes from the command given by Christ at the Last Supper, that we should love one another.

Good Friday 24 hour Prayer Vigil in the sanctuary on April 14

Easter Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 15

Easter Sunday, April 16

7:30 a.m. Sunrise Service

8:15 a.m. Breakfast

9 a.m. Sunday School

10 a.m. Worship with special music by our bell choir

For more information on our upcoming Holy Week activities or our church in general call 940-665-2503, e-mail fccoffice@sbcglobal.net, or log onto www.firstchristiangainesville.com.



First UMC

First United Methodist Church welcomes you to worship with us at 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sundays. Sunday School for all ages is available at 9:45 a.m. Sunday. We are located at 214 S. Denton St. in Gainesville.

This Sunday will be a special day in worship at First UMC. The children will lead us into worship with waving palm branches as we observe Palm Sunday. All children are welcome and encouraged to participate in the waving of palm branches at both worship services. The Chancel Choir will present “Gloria” by Vivaldi, with orchestra accompaniment, in both worship services.

Gwen’s Group will get together Tuesday, April 11 for their monthly outing. They will meet at the church at 11 a.m., then travel to Tioga for lunch at Clark’s Outpost Bar-B-Q. After lunch, Duane and Judy Waskow will lead the group on a tour of Mountain Springs and Lake Ray Roberts. If you plan to attend this outing, please contact Gwen Grove to get your name on the list.

In observance of Holy Week, First UMC will be offering multiple worship opportunities. The Maundy Thursday service will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 13. This service will focus on the Last Supper and the Lord’s Table. Communion will be served.

Good Friday, April 14, we will offer a special viewing and discussion of selected scenes from “The Passion of the Christ” beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Center. At 7 p.m., the Tenebrae (The Service of Darkness) will take place in the sanctuary. This is a brief order of worship featuring the Seven Last Words of Christ.

The children’s Easter Eggstravaganza is scheduled for 1 p.m. next Saturday, April 15 at the home of George and Cindy Bryant. This is more than your typical Easter Egg Hunt… there will be a bounce house, hayrides, a fly-over and “egg drop”, prizes, lots of eggs to hunt, and a visit from the Easter Bunny! In the event of inclement weather, this event will be relocated to the Fellowship Center at the church.

To receive more information about our church or any ongoing activities, please feel free to call the church office at 665-3926, or visit our website, www.fumcgainesville.com.



New Life Bible

For you men who would like to further your Christian walk, at 7 a.m. each Saturday, a small group of New Life men meet at the church to enjoy breakfast together and study God’s word. Just last week they began a study of the “Heart of the Bible-Exploring the Power of Key Bible Passages.”

This small book by John MacAwerthur serves to guide us to great scriptural truths. It may seem early, but just think how your Saturday of “honey do’s” might improve!

Pastor Ben Averitt continues our study in the Book of Ephesians. Chapters 1-3 in Ephesians were all about doctrine; what we should believe.

Now Paul, in Ephesians 4:1-6, urges us to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” The characteristics we need to accomplish Christian unity are in Eph. 2: “Be completely humble, and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” As Christians, we were called to unity in our belief that “there is one body and one Spirit.” Verses 5 and 6, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

Come join us for the Lord’s Supper this Sunday. The table is open to all believers. This is to honor our Lord by following His command “Do this in remembrance of me.”

Children's Ministry

AWANA is a scripture memory club with games, books, counsel time and rewards from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Mark your calendars for the week of June 19 for Vacation Bible School. We will again have a fun and different kind of VBS. Our VBS is in the evening so that the whole family may get involved. This year in our Holy Land Adventure, we will travel back in time to the Bethlehem Village “Where a Savior is Born”.

Teen Ministry

Our youth are challenged to grow in their walk with Christ as they study God's word at 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Junior and senior high youth leaders are Joey and Crystal Anderson, they are teaching a series through the Parables of Christ.

Our youth meet from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at NLBC to enjoy Christian fellowship, to grow in faith and to bring other students along to learn the same. Wednesday the youth are studying from the book Ten Questions to Diagnose Your Spiritual Health by Donald S. Whitney. Does your teen desire a deeper walk with Christ? Would you like your teen to explore this in a fun loving environment? Come join us. Contact John Noblett at 612-2736 for a copy of the book. Pastor Ben Averitt and Ricky Bell are our junior high youth leaders and John and Kim Noblett lead our high school youth.

Women's Ministry

Study covering the book "Created to Be His Help Meet" continues at 7 p.m. Tuesday at NLBC.

Men’s Ministry

Men’s Bible Study meets at 7 a.m. Tuesday at 104 W. Main Street, the law office of Jim Robertson. All men are welcome to this study and are encouraged to bring another man. The book of Daniel is being studied.

Join the men of NLBC at 7 a.m. Saturday for breakfast and for a time of fellowship and encouragement.

Sunday

9 a.m. Please join us for this prayer time as we ask God our Father to glorify Himself through this fellowship.

9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sunday school toddlers through adults. Our adult Sunday school classes are not divided by age. Everyone is welcome.

10:45 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship is a gathering where we celebrate God, His unchanging character and mighty acts. We worship through songs that declare His worth, sound teaching from His Word and genuine fellowship.

Contact Pastor Ben Averitt for information on Community Groups (665-7227).

If you or someone you know needs help with daily living problems, please contact Pastor Ben Averitt, a Nouthetic counselor. It is a form of counseling that believes the Bible is sufficient for all teaching and counseling. (The Greek word noutheteo means to admonish, correct or instruct.) To set an appointment call: 665-7227.

New Life Bible Church is located on Broadway (678) west of the Gainesville State School. We are a Bible-based church that believes the Bible is the inerrant word of God. We study the Bible verse by verse so that we can better understand its meaning in context that it was written. We are conservative doctrinally, but have a contemporary casual worship service. If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Ben Averitt at 940-665-7227.



Calvary Baptist

Sunday

9:15 a.m. Men's Prayer Time

9:45 a.m. Small group Bible Studies

11 a.m. Praise & Worship & Kid's Church

5 p.m. Adult Choir practice

6 p.m. Praise & Worship and Christian All-Stars for kids

Monday

6 p.m. Small group Bible Study led by Wayne Parkhill

Wednesday

10 a.m. Quilting Group

6 p.m. Bible study and prayer and Faithweaver Friends for kids

Thursday

Girls' Nite Out, 6 p.m., first Thursday of each month

Friday

9 a.m. Men's Prayer Time

Men & Boy's Prayer Breakfast

Men and boys will be meeting at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, March 26 in fellowship hall for breakfast and a time of prayer for the revival.

Goodies Available

Members of our Relay For Life Team are serving homemade goodies in the kitchen each Sunday morning before Bible study for a donation to The American Cancer Society. Enjoy some sweets and help out a good cause.

Revival Times

The last services of our revival will begin at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Daniel Cabal from First Baptist in Era will be preaching and Lee Deeds will continue to bless us with his ministry of music.

Easter Egg Hunt

This Sunday following the morning service, there will be a Easter Egg hunt for children ages 4 through sixth grade. All children in this age group are welcome to participate.

Showers of Blessings

There will be a diaper and gift card shower after the evening service this Sunday for John and Clarissa Martin. They are expecting a baby girl in a few weeks.

April Birthdays

Kyle Keith, Margie Nunn and Janice Parkhill, April 3; Lidia LaBorde and Justin Kowalick, April 4; Ruby Gray, April 9; Caleb Rains, April 10; Tasha Bass and Wray Westbrook, April 11; Barbara Chapman, April 13; Frances Covington, April 14; Loran McConnell, April 15; Tyler Simmons, April 19; Lucus Nunn and George Cox, April 23; Drew Alvarado, Bill Moore and Lisa Saddlemire, April 24; and Violet Lemons, April 28.

Calvary Baptist is a church that welcomes all people. What does it mean when we say all? We mean all regardless of ethnicity, regardless of economics, and regardless of education. Why all? God loves all the world so much that Jesus Christ lived, died on a cross and was raised from the dead for all.

Our services are a blend of contemporary and traditional and the atmosphere and dress are casual. Transportation and child care are always available.

Luke Smith is the pastor and Aaron Davis serves as praise and worship minister. The church is located at 900 S. Wine in Gainesville.



Christian Science Society

The subject for our weekly Bible lesson on Sunday, April 9 is “Are Sin, Disease and Death Real?” and will include quotations from the Bible and correlative passages from “Science and Health, with Key to the Scriptures,” by Mary Baker Eddy, our founder, which explains the readings from the Bible from a spiritual perspective.

Our services begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday at 115 East Hird Street in Gainesville. Everyone is welcome.

Testimonial meetings start at 5 p.m. Wednesdays at the same location on the first Wednesday of the month. They will include readings from the Bible and correlative passages from Mrs. Eddy’s works. There may be testimony from those who have received healing by the practice of Christian Science.

Our reading room is always open to all before our services.



First Assembly of God

S.A.L.T.

We have an adult class that meets at 9 a.m. Sundays.

The service and our children’s ministries will begin at 10 a.m. Sunday. We will have S.A.L.T. (Serving And Learning Together) at 6 p.m. Sunday.

There will be a class available for everyone no matter what age you are. We have childcare available in the nursery for the little ones aged up to 3 years.

Team Leadership Meeting

Our next Team Leadership Meeting is Tuesday, April 11. Everyone in a leadership position will need to plan to attend. If you teach a class, sing, play an instrument, are a board member, usher or greeter, youth sponsor, or in the sound room, you are considered leadership.

These meetings are for training, fellowship and promoting unity among the leadership of our church. It gives the leadership one time a month to get together and fellowship and talk about important things going on in the church. There will be a light dinner served to everyone and you may bring your spouse with you.

The Angel Academy provides childcare for us, so we may concentrate on the meeting. If you need more information, please contact the church office during business hours.

Holiday Schedule

The day care and the church offices will be closed Good Friday, April 14 for the Christian holiday. The evening services for Sunday, April 16 will be cancelled.

Ladies Scrapbooking Event

Our next Ladies Scrapbooking event is set from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 18 in the gym. If you are a first time scrapbook fanatic or woud like to know what it is all about, just bring five related photos and we will help you get started.

Bring your favorite snack to share with everyone, if you would like.

There will be no childcare available, so you will need to make other arrangements for your children.

Come and have some fun with us and hang out a while and learn something new or teach us something new about scrapbooking.

Missionettes Girls’ Club

Missionettes is composed of seven grade-level clubs, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, through junior high school. It is a meeting place for girls to bring their friends, gather with other girls who love God, and be mentored by sponsors who care about them.

The Rainbows club, ages 3-4, consists of boys and girls.

We have 23 Missionettes, and sometimes more Missionettes gather from 7 to 8:30 p.m. each Wednesday.

We also have a lot of extra activities during the year. We have an Annual District Sleepover, a campout at Lake Texoma, and we visited a water park with our youth ministries last year.

We have an annual graduation ceremony where the girls are promoted to upper classes, etc. We also crown a “Penny Princess” each year.

If you would like to check out our program, we are located at First Assembly of God, 2205 E. Highway 82 in Gainesville. You may contact us at (940) 665-6720 for more information.

Royal Rangers Boys Club

We have a Royal Rangers Club for boys from prekindergarten until junior high school. We have the Ranger Kids Club for boys from kindergarten to second grade, Discovery Rangers for boys from third grade to fifth grade, Adventure Rangers from grade six to eight and Expedition Rangers from grades nine to 12.

This is one of America’s largest and foremost adventure, camping and mentoring programs.

The Royal Rangers ministry utilizes both fun activities including camping, recreation, first aid, crafts, hobby skills, nature study, sports achievements, awards, trips, world missions, Bible study and much more.

If you have any questions, you may call the church office at 665-6720 for more information.

Angel Academy

Angel Academy offers full time day care for ages 18 months to 5 years that includes a preschool program. We have an after school program for ages kindergarten through sixth grade. We welcome you to come by and see our facility and meet our teachers, or call 612-2815.

LIFT Student Ministries

Caught in a rut? Maybe you need a little inspiration.

LIFT meets at 7 p.m. Wednesdays for friends, video games, dramas and tons of fun.



First Presbyterian Church

of Whitesboro

First Presbyterian Church of Whitesboro welcomes you to join us on Sunday mornings for study and worship. Church School begins at 10 a.m., and morning worship at 11 a.m.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 200 North Union, just off the downtown square.

We celebrate Holy Week beginning with Palm/Passion Sunday. We celebrate Maundy Thursday with a Seder Supper. We celebrate Easter Sunday with a Sunrise Service at Cedar Mills Marina, and a traditional Easter service at 11 a.m. Sunday. Join us for one or all of these Holy Week services.

We host a Women's Support Group which meets at 7 p.m. Mondays. For more information, call us at 903-564-3906, or check our website at www.fpcwhitesboro.org. We are eager to have you join us on our pilgrimage with Christ through the year 2006! Richard Nourse may be contacted at 903-564-3906.



The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

The Stake Youth are sponsoring a Chamber Music Fireside at 7 p.m. Sunday, April 9. There will be vocals, strings, woodwind, brass and piano solos performed by the youth of the Stake and the University of North Texas College of Music students and their faculties. The public is welcome to this special event. The address of the Stake Center in Denton is 3000 Old North Road.

The Priests and Laurels of the church are being treated to a special night on Friday, April 14, "A Shining Night in Paris." Dinner begins at 6:15p.m., the dance starts at 7:30 p.m. and the post prom activities at 10:30 p.m.

Bring the family and come solve the Easter Mystery from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 15 at the Gainesville Chapel, Highway 51 and California in Gainesville. Bring friends and neighbors, especially with children. There will be a potluck dinner, activities for primary children, activities for youth and adults. Nursery will be furnished for ages 1 to 3 years of age. A dessert will be served.

We will be having the first Stake Blood Drive of the year from 2 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 18. There is much need for blood now so please make time to give if you can. The address of the Stake Center is 3000 Old North Road in Denton. If you do not have transportation, we can work something out. Contact in Gainesville is Doris at 940-665-2569.

The Family History Center is open to the public at no charge. Come by and give looking for your ancestors a try. There are various sites you can visit and it may surprise you what you can learn about them. Hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Ring the bell at the back of the church on Tuesdays. The FHC director is Darlene at 665 7791.



Callisburg UMC

Beautiful flowers from the funeral of Bob Raccuglia were decorating our sanctuary. The family left them for us.

Riley Moreland and Alex Knight were acolytes. Ushers were Doyle Smith and Larry Wallace. Barbara Smith read the scriptures and led the Affirmation of Faith.

Hal Dick led Children’s Time. He explained how we need to watch what we say. We should speak the truth and make people feel better about themselves. We should say the right thing at the right time.

We missed the families who were at a national cheerleading competition. We are happy to announce that the Callisburg School Cheerleading Competition Team won their competition. They were also the high point team for the entire competition. We are always proud of our young people.

Betty Henderson was awarded the Community Service Award from North Central Texas College. Betty was given the award for all her volunteer work in the community. We are glad she was recognized for her work.

Rev. Gene Gordon’s message was “The Desert of Guilt.” We each feel guilt about different things. God forgives us our sins. Three ways to get rid of guilt are own it, accept responsibility before God and accept the wonder of forgiveness.

Palm Sunday will be a time for the Confirmation of those in our Confirmation class. This special Sunday marks an important time for the young people being confirmed.

There will be Good Friday services at 6 p.m. Friday, April 14. There will also be a come and go communion from noon to 3 p.m. Good Friday.

Kids for Christ visited Pecan Tree Manor Rest Home and sang for the residents. We enjoyed pizza at Cici’s. Several of our church family are residents there. Rev. Gordon has regular services at Pecan Tree.

Our church is having an Easter Egg Hunt for the children of the community at Parkhill Park at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15. This should be a fun time for everyone.

Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. with worship at 11 a.m. Sunday. We welcome everyone.

Our church enjoyed a fellowship and meal after church services Sunday. The food was great and everyone enjoyed visiting together.



Custer City Baptist

As Easter is fast approaching, Custer City Baptist Church will be showing the movie, “The Passion of the Christ” at 6 p.m. Sunday, April 9 in the church sanctuary. Everyone is welcome to attend; there will be no fee.

On Easter Sunday, there will be an Easter egg hunt between Sunday school and worship service. For information, call Darla Hollandsworth at 665-5676.

The choir will be presenting “Come to the Cross,” an Easter invitation, at 11 a.m. Easter Sunday. The choir is directed by Rocky Roberts. Following the music presentation, Bro. Jeff Lancaster will be delivering the message.

The youth of Custer City Baptist will be having a car wash from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8 in front of the First State Bank on Highway 82 by Home Depot. Proceeds will be applied to the Easter Retreat at Falls Creek in Oklahoma on April 13-15.

Everyone is always welcome at Custer City Baptist Church on FM 2896.



Master’s Touch

Master’s Touch, a Southern Gospel trio, will be at the Eastside Church of the Nazarene at 10:45 a.m. April 9 and at Tabernacle Baptist Church for the 6 p.m. service.

They are an award-winning Native American trio from Oklahoma City, Okla., which includes Carl Willis, Devon Fobd, and Chris Redbird.

Along with their singing, they share their testimonies of how God is working in their lives.

If you need an inspirational uplift, you won’t want to miss these services.

Pastor Hollis Parsons of Tabernacle Baptist and Pastor Mark Jones at Eastside Church of the Nazarene welcome the community to attend these special singing services.

For more information, you may call 665-9460 or 665-3069.



Clements Street MBC

Clements Street Missionary Baptist Church, 623 South Clements Street in Gainesville, welcomes you to Bible study and worship.

On Sunday morning, Pastor Todd Gray will bring the message from the current series of sermons on the Ten Commandments.

Our Sunday school programs for children and adults begin at 9:45 a.m., worship at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday.

Join us for Bible study at 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

Make plans to join us for Easter Sunday worship with a special Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. with a noon meal to follow.

There will be no Sunday school programs April 16 and our evening services have been canceled in observance of this special day.

For more information, you may contact the church office at (940) 665-6310 or e-mail the pastor at todd_gray@hotmail.com.



Pioneer Baptist

Bro. Sammie Hughes opened Sunday’s service at Pioneer Baptist Church by stating that America is still a great and mighty nation. God puts certain people in the position of leadership and the president we now have is a man of God and stands up for the word of God. We are on this earth to glorify God and He is our reason for living. Are we just sitting on a pew Sunday morning, or are we standing up for our Savior?

The Sunday morning message was from Daniel 5. In the scripture text, King Belshazzar was mocking God; actually testing God by using stolen sacred cups to drink wine and toast their idols at his huge feast. During the celebration, the guests and king were having a good time until something happened that terrified them. A human finger began to write on the wall a message that no one could decipher. Daniel, who was known to have divine knowledge, was brought in to interpret this message which translated said that the king’s days were numbered, that he had been weighed in God’s balance and had failed the test, and that his kingdom would be divided and given away. That very night, King Belshazzar was killed, and his kingdom was taken over and divided. Moral: do not challenge God.

The Sunday evening service had a strong message about putting on and keeping on your full armor. How can you do this when you only attend services when you “feel like it”? Now is the hour to stand and show that we truly want to do God’s work.

Easter Sunrise services will be at 6:45 a.m. at the C5P (Clark) Ranch, located on South FM 372. Everyone is encouraged to attend and bring your own chair.

Bible study for adults and the worship group for teens are set for 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

Overcomers meet at 7 p.m. Tuesdays.

The Angel Food Ministries keeps growing and has truly been a successful program. Cornerstone Baptist of Trenton continues to help us with this program of outreach.

Food for thought: Pride goes before destruction and haughtiness before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18 paraphrased)



Hibbit Baptist

Our opening hymn on Sunday, April 2 was “Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine.”

Our Scripture reading was Psalms 119:65-72. We sang the hymn “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.”

Announcements included the business meeting following church.

Easter Sunday

9:30 a.m. Breakfast with sausage, biscuits, gravy, muffins, jelly, coffee and orange juice.

10:15 a.m. Egg hunt

11 a.m. Easter Sunday service

Prayer requests included Bro. Greg Brooks asking for prayer for a friend of his, Danya Shaffer, a 31-year-old teacher who is battling cancer; also another friend, Holley and her father Jack German, who has a lot of medical problems.

We prayed for the Horton family who lost their loved one, the firefighter in Oklahoma who was involved in the wildfire accident.

Brittany Arrington asked for prayer for her grandmother, Betty Lemons, who is having eye surgery. Brittany gave us a praise on her friend, Seth, who we have been praying for in the past. Seth is back at home and back in school after a lengthy stay in the hospital.

Betty Hargrove asked for prayer for her new grandson, Lance, as the adoption is being finalized.

We continue to pray for Rick and Virginia McNairn who lost their daughter, Sherry Graves, recently.

Tutts Harrison asked for prayer for safety of our nation, for wisdom in what to do on the immigration issues, in our community, churches, schools and states.

We are glad to have Jimmie Herbold back after having surgery on her foot and we continue to pray for her recovery.

We praise God for the rain and thank him for our safety in the bad weather.

Bro. Greg led all this in prayer.

The offertory hymn was “Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound.”

Bro. Greg brought our message out of John 3:3-8.

Jesus answered and said to him (Nicodemus), “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

After reading our Bible Scriptures, Bro. Greg led us in prayer, asking for God’s directions as he did many, many years ago.

Bro. Greg titled this message “The Mystery of Being Born Again.”

Bro. Greg says the whole concept of Easter is of redemption and being born again. As we approach Easter, look at your life and what impact you have on the world.

Bro. Greg led us in prayer, asking for guidance as we approach Palm Sunday.

Our closing hymn was “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus.”

Jimmie Herbold closed in prayer.

All are welcome at Hibbit Baptist Church. Our worship service begins at 11 a.m. Sundays. Our pastor is Greg Brooks and associate pastor is Mark Brooks, who will lead services on the last Sunday of every month.

We are located in northeast Cooke County on County Road 115, off of FM 2383, north of Callisburg.