Baptist                               

   February 2012                  

•EASTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH • 3212 JAMES ST. • SYRACUSE, NY 13206

www.EastwoodBaptistChurch.org    Phone # 315-463-1930

“I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way – a voice of one calling in the desert, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. – Mark 1:2-3

Those were the words spoken about John the Baptist who called people to come out to the wilderness to be baptized in the Jordan River, to prepare the way as God’s kingdom was coming near in Christ Jesus. God has spoken to many people in the desert throughout human history. Moses and the people traveled 40 years in the desert. Prophets and patriarchs spent time in the desert. It was a welcome place. Malcolm Muggeridge writes:

“What the wilderness offers is its emptiness and barrenness…and silence. Not a tree or a street, not a building, not a telegraph pole, not a road or vehicle in sight. Nothing to suggest human habitation, apart from an occasional skinny sheep and goats, or vultures flying through the sky. So in the wilderness, the world seems far away…All the
habitual pursuits of the ego and the appetites are suspended.

I love the wilderness because, when all these pursuits of the mind and body have been shed, what remains…is an unencumbered soul, with no other concern than to look for God.”

Lent is a time for stripping away all that encumbers us so that we might fully devote ourselves to God. We take a walk in the desert, so-to-speak, listening afresh for his still small voice.

But the desert can also be a place of danger and hardship. Jesus entered the desert only to be tempted. Deserts are hard places to live. The environment is not conducive for life. For many, life can feel like a wilderness journey. In this season of lent, we remember that Jesus walked a wilderness road. In the 1970’s, I remember an old song that went like this:

Jesus walked this lonesome valley.

He had to walk it by Himself;

O, nobody else could walk it for Him,

He had to walk it by Himself.

We must walk this lonesome valley,

We have to walk it by ourselves;

O, nobody else can walk it for us,

We have to walk it by ourselves.

You must go and stand your trial,

You have to stand it by yourself,

O, nobody else can stand it for you,

You have to stand it by yourself.

This Lenten season we will walk with God in the desert, together, aware of the risks, but preferring to listen for His voice, calling to us in the wilderness, so we won’t be ever alone again.

WORSHIP HIGHLIGHTS FOR FEBRUARY 2012

Feb  5              SERMON ON THE MOUNT: Light of the World

Matthew 5:14-16

Communion Sunday

Commissioning for the Mission Trip

Soup R Sundae – Luncheon to benefit our camping program for children & youth

MISSION TRIP TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – February 11-18

Feb 12             GUEST: Rev. John Buskey, Outdoor Ministries ABCNYS

Feb 19             TELL ME THE STORIES OF JESUS          John 12:20-21

LENT BEGINS!

OUR COOPERATIVE LENTEN SEASON THEME:

Walking with God in the Desert

Once again, we will be collaborating during Lent with the Onondaga Hill Presbyterian Church, First Baptist in Manlius, Chittenango Presbyterian Church, and First Baptist, Syracuse in Jamesville. We will be sharing common messages each Sunday, common study groups, and this year, a common Ash Wednesday worship service at the First Baptist Church of Syracuse in Jamesville.

Feb 22             ASH WEDNESDAY at First Baptist Church, Syracuse – Launching Lenten Series

For those of us who seek to live as God’s people today, it is essential that we understand the stories of Scripture as more than ancient history. The ancient stories of the Bible describe God and define the faith walk of his people. God’s people come to know him by what he does, not by attempting to define him with precise doctrine. God’s people come to live the way he desires by remembering, retelling, and reliving his great redemptive acts.

Like the ancient Hebrews, we need deliverance from bondage. We need to be amazed by God’s power. We need to respond to his voice. As we wander through the deserts of our lives, we need to set our feet firmly on the foundation of depending on God and living by his every word. Their story is our story.

The desert is one of the richest and most helpful images of the Bible. In the hardship and struggle to survive in the desert, we find a metaphor for surviving the desert experiences of heart and soul. We realize that life moves from one desert experience to another. The heat of suffering during these times can be overwhelming. We may be weary and thirsty and find little or no refreshment. And yet, God is with us. He is our provider and our protector, and he will give us just enough. While no one looks forward to the desert experiences of life, knowing that in the heat of those desperate times God will provide just enough is hope enough to live significant and purpose-filled lives.

Is your church or congregation going through a difficult times? Either corporately, or in their individual lives? The loss of loved ones? Unemployment? Crisis’s of faith? During these desert times, it’s easy to think God has disappeared. In this whole church experience, spend four weeks on what you and your congregation can learn through desert times and discover that it’s only when we are totally dependent on him that we find God is closer than ever.

Feb 26             FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT: Walking With God in the Desert –      Why Me?

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MISSION TRIP

• FEBRUARY 11-18 (Saturday – Saturday)

• Douglass Dowty, Bonnie Miner, Phyllis &      Paul Bailey

• Cooperative trip with Emmanuel Baptist Church      of Albany and the sponsoring church, First Baptist, East Greenwich, Rhode      Island.

• Ministry with Haitians in the Dominican      Republic: Health Clinics in the small sugar cane villages (bateys) and      construction on the Good Samaritan Hospital in La Romana.

Join us in prayer during the 9 days of travel and ministry!

• Safe travel to La Romana and health while      serving.
• Many will come and be ministered to with the      clinics
• Days of work on the hospital will be fruitful
• God will take the opportunity to strengthen our      faith as we seek to encourage the faith of the Haitians.
• Opportunity to meet with our missionary partner      – Kristy Engel

We’re collecting:

            Used Eye Glasses       Children’s Tylenol

Follow our adventure through regular “Eastwood UPDATE” emails throughout the week.

Coats for Kids Campaign a Success!

We worked to collect winter coats and winter wear, especially for children, and give it all away on Sunday, January 22^nd. Many thanks to: Doug Dowty, Carol Sampson, Bob Sampson, Laurie Hadlick, Darlene Long, and the rest of the Mission Church Learning Experience Team.

SAMARITAN CENTER TRIP - On Sunday, January 8, 30 members of Eastwood Baptist Church (child, teen, and adult)  went to the Samaritan Center to cook, serve, and clean up dinner which included sloppy joes, macaroni and chef salads, fruits, and cookies.  The meal and companionship were very much enjoyed and appreciated by the dinner guests.  The many EBC hands did, indeed, make light work.  Thank you again, one and all, to those who helped make the day special to those in need in our community.

YOUTH OVERNIGHT – Once again this annual event included the hiding game: Man (& Woman) Hunt

NEW ACCOUNTING AND CHURCH MANAGEMENT PROGRAM – In an attempt to simplify and organize our financial and membership records, we are switching over to a program called Power Church Plus. Thanks to Joe P., Barry, Tom, Margaret, Brenda N., Marilyn, and all the rest!

ANNUAL MEETING was Sunday, January 29th. In an attempt to broad the audience, we will officially begin the meeting as worship begins. Commission Reports will be given during the service and we will reflect our call to ministry from Jesus “You are the salt of the earth”. The meeting will continue downstairs following the service with a Brunch prepared by our Boy Scout Troop 7. If you would like a copy of the Annual Report, dedicated to Ed Kimbrell, pick one up at church or call the office and we’ll mail you one.

REMEMBERING IN PRAYER

Hal DeWolf is recuperating in Cooperstown from surgery.

Amy Wentling, Norma Tippett’s mother died peacefully at Van Dyne on Saturday.

Marilyn Sinclair is much improved at the Iroquois for rehab

Domincan Republic Mission Trip Feb 11-18

DEACONS RETREAT was Saturday, January 28th from 9am – Noon.  Following a brief time of worship, there was training on: Serving Communion, Assisting in Baptism, Finding Your Way around the Kitchen, and AED training.  Our guests were from the Missio Church (meets at Palace) who came to address how they work to develop Christian disciples in their congregation. In a related activity, our Deacons worked on the new annual theme for 2012 on the Spiritual Life.

EASTWOOD BAPTIST HISTORICAL NOTE: “On Sunday morning, January 23, 1927, services were begun in the house of Eastwood Hose Company 2, 117 South Edwards Ave, with attendance of 68. The first Sunday School classes were held on the same day, with an attendance of 54.”

PASTOR’S SCHEDULE CHANGE AGAIN – In an unexpected change in the teaching schedule at OCC, Pastor Bailey will be generally out of the office teaching on Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning with the start of classes, January 23rd. (Not Tuesdays and Thursdays as previously announced).

ADULT CLASS -JOURNEY THROUGH THE PSALMS–   The Adult Class will explore many types of psalms with a video featuring Pastor Mary Lou’s Old Testament professor.  You are invited to share in the discussion or just listen at 9:30 am in the Lounge.  Each session is complete in itself.

COMMISSION ON EDUCATION – Soup R Sundae is approaching quickly  (February 5 following worship).   If you would like to show off your culinary abilities, now is the time!  We need a variety of soups.  If you lack culinary talent (like Darlene), you can bring in ice cream or sundae toppings.  If you are interested, please contact Brenda Mertz 699-9206 or Carol Walczyk 676-2165

EBC WOMEN’S GROUPS – We are having a Valentine Tea on Feb. 12^th from 1-3 pm in Titus Hall.

Please come and join us for tea and sandwiches + dessert.  If you have a favorite tea cup, please bring it.  A Love Gift Offering will be taken.   Please invite your friends, Relatives and daughters 4 yrs. and older.

“But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it…to prepare God’s people for works

of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we reach unity in the faith…”

– Ephesians 4:7, 12,13

Hands Across the Neighborhood

In last January’s newsletter, I wrote about an annual theme the Deacons chose for this past year, 2011. The purpose of an annual theme is to give direction and focus to the church’s ministry over the course of a year. The theme becomes a guide for well-established programs and a stimulus for creating new ministry.

In 2011, Eastwood Baptist worked on the theme: Hands Across the Neighborhood

The year included:

• A Series of Sunday morning messages on Becoming an Inviting People
• Hosted the Mission Church Learning Experience training events. Our church participated and the team is currently presenting a project proposal in 2 stages.
• 10-12 participated in the Earth Day Clean Up that included the Midler/James intersection
• Several members started attending the Eastwood Neighborhood Assoc. Meetings
• Don Devito became an active member of the Memorial Committee of the ENA and the committee meets at EBC monthly
• A small crew helped clean up Sheridan Park in preparation for the 9-11 Ceremony with several EBC attenders.
• Pastor worked with a committee to clean up the Rigi St Apartment building, including shrub work with Scout leader Ed      White.
• Hosted the James St Methodist men at a winter men’s breakfast with Pastor Roosevelt Baum
• Exchanged worship with James St. Methodist Church on Independence Day & Labor Day weekends.
• Hosted the Community Thanksgiving Service

As we look back, there were many initiatives taken with our existing programs (Example: men’s dinner, worship); as well as new efforts (Example: ENA connections, MCLE). Many of these endeavors will be continuing. It has been a good year and we have learned many things.

But an annual theme is meant to give focus for one year. This is a new year. And an annual theme  addresses one aspect of church life, but there are many other areas that can be explored. Our Deacon discussions on a new annual theme have been moving in the direction of a spiritual life theme.

Teach Us to Pray

When our church first met on January 9^th, 1927 in the Palace Hall, they closed the service with a decision to continue worshiping. But the first event was to start a Thursday night prayer meeting. In the early church, the disciples and followers were told by Jesus to stay in Jerusalem and they prayed (Acts 1:14). We could learn & practice prayer.

 Experiencing God

Over the course of a year, we could try to create a variety of opportunities for the congregation to experience or encounter God. The Gospels are filled with people whose lives were changed because of an encounter with God.  Events could include: Small group events, Dramatic depictions, a transforming film, worship events, guests who can lead us in spiritual exercises (labyrinth, spiritual direction,), retreat, prayer events, healing service, trip to Millennium Theatre, Study Richard Foster’s book on spiritual disciplines, trip to Samaritan Center)

Opening God’s Word

Contemporary Christians are continually accused of being biblically illiterate. Over the course of a year, the church could focus on knowing God’s Word in worship, small groups, classes, memorizing scripture, competitions, guest Bible teachers, etc.

Know What You Believe

Spend a year going back to the basics. Offer the Alpha Series of lessons on Christian beliefs, conduct small groups on the historical beliefs of the Christian church, learn what “others” believe, or examine Baptist beliefs.

At the Deacon’s retreat on January 28^th, we will be picking a direction. If you have some thoughts, pass them on to one of the Deacons this month.

PASTOR’S SCHEDULE for 2012

In light of the 2012 budget reductions, Pastor Bailey will be teaching more this year at Onondaga Community College. While some changes will not be noticeable (not serving on the Center for New Americans Bd, the Iroquois Assoc.’s Youth Team, or coordinating Eastwood Clergy activities), the most visible changes may include:

• Generally not at church on Tuesdays &  Thursdays
• Reduced visitation schedule

In June, the congregation will meet to approve a budget for the second half of 2012. At that time, we will know more about our financial status.

Worship Highlights for January 2012

January 1                NEW YEAR’S DAY

• Agape Meal & Worship in Titus Hall
• Gather around tables to feast on God’s Word and the Lord’s Supper

January 8               SERMON ON THE MOUNT: The Preaching Begins

• Matthew 4:12-25
• Dedication & Recognition of Leaders
• Samaritan Center Trip

January 15              SERMON ON THE MOUNT: Blessings

• Matthew 5:1-5
• Youth Overnight (Fri)
• Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend

January 22              SERMON ON THE MOUNT: And More Blessings

• Matthew 5:6-12

January 29              SERMON ON THE MOUNT: Our Church’s Calling

• Matthew 5:13-16
• Annual Meeting Sunday
• Deacon’s Retreat (Saturday AM)

YOUTH SLEEPOVER –

When: January 13^th 7 pm, pick up 8 am Jan. 14^th.  Who:  Grades K-12 (5 yr olds need a parent to stay the night).  Please bring a snack to share and $1.00 for breakfast.

What to bring:  sleeping bag & pillow & games

Location:  Titus Hall

COMMISSON ON MISSIONS

Get your new year off to a great start!  On Sunday, January 8, 2012, members of Eastwood Baptist Church will prepare, serve, and clean up dinner at the Samaritan Center, 310 Montgomery Street, Syracuse.  Most helpers will need to be there by 12:30 and all will be done by 3:00.  The volunteers so far include: The Stoddard’s, Gayle Vinette, Bonnie Miner, Ralph Long, Laurie Hadlick and the youth group, Phyllis Bailey, Madeline Kimbrell, and Brenda Mertz.  There are many simple jobs to be done, and many hands make light work. You will need to bring hat hairnet to serve food, comfortable shoes, EBC t-shirt if you have one, apron if you would like one.   If you would like to join us or need more information, please contact Doris Stoddard at 682-5652.
Those signed up to cook: Ralph Long, Bonnie Miner, Gayle Vinette, Stoddard’s will meet at EBC parking lot at 10:20 and carpool to Samaritan to cut down on number of cars needing to be parked.

ADULT CLASS -JOURNEY THROUGH THE PSALMS

Starting Jan. 8 the Adult Class will explore many types of psalms with a video featuring Pastor Mary Lou’s Old Testament professor.  You are invited to share in the discussion or just listen at 9:30 am in the Lounge.  Each session is complete in itself.

RMMO (Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering)

THIS YEAR’S THEME – REMEMBER WITH LOVE – GIVE WITH GRATITUDE

During January we will be receiving the RMMO offering.  Since the Great Depression of the 1930s, American Baptist congregations have contributed to special offerings to provide financial support to retired ministers and missionaries and their widowed spouses.  The Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering was established in 1977 to continue this tradition.  The recipients have used this money for everything from medical, dental and prescription expenses to home repairs and groceries.   Enclosed please find contribution envelope.  Please remember those who have served.  Our goal is $1,000.  Thanks.

Merry Christmas! … What’s Christmas time to you but a time for paying bills without money; a time for finding yourself a year older, and not an hour richer; a time for balancing your books and having every item in ‘em through a round dozen of months presented against you? If I would work my will … every idiot who goes about with “Merry Christmas,” on his lips, should be boiled with his own pudding, and buried with a stake of holly through his heart. – Scrooge

We know that not everyone likes Christmas. It is hard to believe that once there was a time without Christmas. By the end of the 1700’s, the celebration of Christmas had almost disappeared from common practice. Centuries of celebrations by northern Europeans had faded. Why? In the 17^th century, the English Puritan Christians actually outlawed Christmas feasting. In the following century, Reformed Christians believed that you should only do what the Bible says and there is no Christmas feast in the Bible. And what about the bad behavior? Reverence Henry Bourne of Newcastle declared that Christmas was “a pretense for Drunkenness, and Rioting, and Wantonness”.*  The decline of Christmas may have been more an issue of urbanization. Families seeking work during the industrial revolution came to the cities and left their cultural traditions at home. Poverty was widespread. Few had the money or time to spend on Christmas. It was 1843.

That fall, Charles Dickens took a trip to Manchester to visit his sister Fan and her 2 frail, sickly sons. He spoke at the Athenaeum, an institution for the poor in that area. He was greatly moved. It was October and winter was nearing. He started to write. Dickens would later refer to it as a spiritual experience. The result was the short story, A Christmas Carol. It went to press two months later and before long the story was being read, told, and dramatized in Europe and North America.

That story about Ebenezer, Tiny Tim, and Bob Cratchit had the effect of resurrecting the celebration of Christmas. In 1988, the Sunday Telegraph of London gave the long deceased Charles Dickens the title, The Man Who Invented Christmas. It described families modestly and respectfully celebrating the holiday. Turkeys were introduced in the story as a Christmas food. The tale modeled for readers the idea caring for the poor should be a Christmas activity. Today, Christmas would not be Christmas without at least one viewing of A Christmas Carol.

Is it a Christian story? While Ebenezer clearly undergoes a transformation of spirit and the good guys are all committed church folks, interestingly, Charles Dickens had a mixed view of Christianity. A Christmas Carol does not mention Christ as the prime mover of change in Scrooge’s life. Dickens’s Christmas has no Christ. He was a man with a devout faith, but on his own terms. (In fact, Charles Dickens had a secret book, The Life of Our Lord.  It was not allowed to be published until 1934, 85 years after his death.  He wrote it in 1849 and would read it to his 10 children as night. He wanted his children to be familiar with Jesus.)  Actually, it was the organized church that Charles Dickens didn’t like. Well, that and the inequities of society. His critique of the wealthy and leisure class can be seen in his book, David Copperfield. He would have fit into the current camps protesting Wall Street. His sympathy with the poor is weaved through most of his stories. He was drawn to Christ, though, especially when the scriptures told of God’s love for the lost and downtrodden. He had experienced poverty in his own life.

Of course, the real “Man Who Invented Christmas” is God incarnating in Jesus Christ.

And the Word became flesh and lived among us,

and we have seen his glory as of a father’s only son,

full of grace and truth.

John 1:14

But the themes of Christianity are woven into Dickens’s familiar tale and so we will be holding a series of Advent Studies on the Christian themes in “A Christmas Carol” on Wednesdays at 10am & 7pm. Come watch part of the film and then join us as we turn to the scriptures and find Christmas again.

(*Details in this article are drawn from articles by Stephen Rost & Mark Roberts, based on Les Standiford’s book, The Man Who Invented Christmas

Worship Highlights for Advent & Christmas

Nov 27
Hanging of the Greens – During & After Worship
FIRST SUNDAY of ADVENT
Letters from Bethlehem – Mary
Hanging of the Greens Luncheon after worship – Bring a dish to pass

December 4              
Communion & New Member Sunday
SECOND  SUNDAY of ADVENT
Letters from Bethlehem – Shepherds

December 11   
Children’s Pageant Sunday – The Good News Flash
THIRD SUNDAY of ADVENT
Letters from Bethlehem – Angels
Reception following worship

December 18  
Choir Cantata – “Night of the Father’s Love”
FOURTH SUNDAY of ADVENT
Letters from Bethlehem – Wisemen
Congregational Meeting – Elections & Approval of 2012 Budget

December 24
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE – 7pm

December 25  
Christmas Morning Service

January 1               
Agape Meal & Worship in Titus Hall
NEW YEAR’S DAY
Gather around tables to feast on God’s Word and the Lord’s Supper

COMMISSION ON EDUCATION invites you to the yearly Christmas pageant on December 11^th during service.  Come join the fun as the Eastwood Baptist kids perform the drama “The Good News Flash”.

COMMISSON ON MISSIONS  -Get your new year off to a great start!  On Sunday, January 8, 2012, members of Eastwood Baptist Church will prepare, serve, and clean up dinner at the Samaritan Center, 310 Montgomery Street, Syracuse.  Most helpers will need to be there by 12:30 and all will be done by 3:00.  The volunteers so far include: The Stoddards, Gayle Vinette, Bonnie Miner, Ralph Long, Laurie Hadlick and the youth group, Phyllis Bailey, Madeline Kimbrell, and Brenda Mertz.  There are many simple jobs to be done, and many hands make light work.  If you would like to join us or need more information, please contact Doris Stoddard at 682-5652.

WEDNESDAY STUDY GROUPS will meet in the morning 10 am and evening 7 pm in the Library to compare scripture and the classic story – A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Begins November 30th

HOLIDAY BASKETS – Again this year we will be preparing food baskets for the Holidays.  Please leave your donations at the rear of the sanctuary (non-perishable foods) in the bins.  Suggestions:  potatoes, apples, canned pie filling, piecrust mix, rolls, and canned products.  Money donations to help with the cost of meat will be appreciated.  Thanks!

BLESSED SACRAMENT OUTREACH PROGRAM – Parish Outreach is planning for their Thanksgiving and Christmas Distributions, and are in need of volunteers – to help please contact Janice at 437-4462 or 437-3394.  Thanks!

• Christmas Set-up                     Friday, Dec. 9^th 5 pm – ?
• Christmas Distribution            Saturday, Dec. 10^th 8 am – 1 pm

ADULT CLASS – JOURNEY FROM NAZARETH TO BETHLEHEM WITH ADAM HAMILTON–The Adult Class invites you to share this Advent adventure in Israel.  Explore what we know and don’t know about Joseph on Dec. 4.  On Dec. 11 we’ll visit Biblical sites along the way from Nazareth to Bethlehem.  On Dec. 18 see what a real manger in Jesus’ day looked like and consider the theological significance of the visit of Jewish shepherds and Gentile magi.

Israel may be a chosen nation with chosen people, but God also chose every other person in the Middle East as well. God loves the Jewish people, but He also loved and died for every other person in the other nations as well.

October is our month to think about how much God does love the whole world, people from every nation, even ours. It is clear that the world is getting smaller, we are ever more dependent on other nations, and people from ever country are coming to our door step, often having learned about the Christian faith and want to see what it really looks like. This month I encourage you to pull out a map or globe, read a little more about other nations, ask someone about their homeland. It will bring the world closer, the way God does.

 Worship Highlights for October

October 2                                       World Communion Sunday

• LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: Having Enough
• 10:30 Worship Service (9:30am Classes for all ages)
• Exodus 12:31-42, 50; 16
• World Mission Offering Begins

October 9 

• LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: Government Leaders
• Daniel 6 & I Timothy 2:1-2
• World Mission Offering Continues

October 16                                     Baptism Sunday

• LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: Faith & Doubt
• Acts 8:26-39; Acts 16:16-34; Romans 7:14-25
• Compassion Sunday Brunch following worship

October 23            

• GIVING GUEST:  Rev. William Carlsen
• Operation Christmas Child begins

October 30 

• GIVING GUEST
• Fall Fun Day after worship
• Association Meeting – Hillview Community Baptist – Baldwinsville 2-5pm

HARVEST DINNER

Will take place on Saturday, October 22^nd 5-7 pm in Titus Hall.  Turkey and all the fixins’ + dessert.

• Adults – $9.00
• Seniors – $8.00
• Children 6 thru 12 – $5.00
• 5 and Under FREE

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD:

It may seem to early for Christmas, but October is the month to fill the shoeboxes for OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD.  You can fill a shoe box you may have at home or use one that is from the organization.  Remember that shoe boxes that are wrapped will be opened for inspection, so the cover must be removable.  Donations of gifts or money may be contributed if you are unable to fill a box.

FILLED BOXES SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO THE CHURCH DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF NOVEMBER.  DEDICATION OF THE BOXES WILL BE SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20^TH.

•Suggested Gifts:  Toys, small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, small Etch A Sketch, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky, etc.

•School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, coloring books, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, etc.

•Hygiene items;  toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, comb, washcloth, etc.

•Other: hard candy, lollipops, mints, gum, sunglasses, flashlights with extra batteries, ball caps, socks, T shirts, toy jewelry, hair-clips, watches, small picture books, etc.

PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

Used items, toy guns, knives or other war-related items, Chocolate or perishable items, Liquids of any kind (shampoo, lotion, bubbles, etc.), Medicines of any kind (vitamins, cough drops, etc., Breakable items (mirrors, china dolls, etc.)

SCULL-CRAFT CALENDARS FOR YEAR 2012

will be available to buy at the same price as last year.  Shipping/handling costs have increased, but we are not raising the price.  $6.00 per calendar.  Payment at the time of the order would be appreciated, with check made out to Helen Stone.  Deadline for order is Oct. 30.

WORLD MISSION OFFERING –

During October we will be giving to the World Mission Offering.

The 2011 World Mission Offering theme, Live the Word . Proclaim the Word . Be Transformed celebrates global evangelism, exemplified by the inspiring efforts of our committed global Christian partners.  The movement toward Jesus in strong throughout the world. October 2^nd   celebrates World Communion Sunday with the World Mission Offering.   Enclosed please find envelope for giving.  Our goal for this offering is $1,000.

Thank you in advance!

GARAGE SALE –

Start getting your treasurers together. Our semi annual garage sale will be October 7^th 9-4 pm and October 8^th 9-11 am (Bag Sale).

Set up is Wednesday, Oct. 5^th and Thursday October 6^th.  If you can help, please call Ralph Schrack (463-6418) or the church office (463-1930).

As a church, we head into the fall, building, shaping, and creating in a flurry of activity. What are we building? Some very special Sundays are planned. Many small groups are starting and restarting. Our children’s programs are evolving. Homecoming Weekend is September 24 & 25^th. You can see the shapes emerging.

We have an idea about what we are making. But a church is a living organism, the Body of Christ, and while we have plans and goals, we are also asking God the question: “Whatcha building?”

We believe that God’s Holy Spirit is at work in us. “…for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:13. There is an expectation that God can do more than we think or imagine. “Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever.” – Ephesians 3:20. There is a common saying: “God is not finished with you yet.” It applies to churches as well. Come and see the marvelous things the Lord is doing.

Inside this newsletter, you will want to take note of several things:

• Homecoming Weekend Letter with invitations to:
• Sunday Worship with our New Hymnbooks
• Saturday morning Men’s Breakfast
• Saturday evening Daughter’s Dinner
• Can We Call You Survey? – Many ways to serve
• Worship Times for Sept 4^th (11:00am) and Sept 11^th (10:30 am service with 9:30am classes)
• Beginnings

See you in church! – Pastor Paul Bailey

GENEROUS THOUGHTS

All of us know the story of the Good Samaritan. In fact, this is probably one of the best known stories world-wide. We’ve all read it as Jesus presented it, as an answer to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” It is a story of kindness and of love. Yet it can also be seen as a story of the appropriate attitude toward material possessions.

The robbers in the story live by the idea that “what’s yours should be mine.” They want what somebody else has and will use any means to get it.

The priest and the Levite in the story are governed by “what’s mine is mine.” They have worked hard for their possessions, and are not prepared to give them up.

The Samaritan believes “what’s mine is yours as you need it.” Even at great expense and inconvenience, he is willing to share what he has.

It’s clear which of these attitudes Jesus endorsed. What have you shared today?

A stewardship reminder from ABCUSA

Worship Highlights for September

September  4
WORSHIP CELEBRATION WITH JAMES STREET METHODIST  at Eastwood Baptist,  Pastor Bailey and Pastor Baum will bring the message: The Gospel Blimp

• 11am (SPECIAL TIME)                 Matthew 4:18-25
• Communion will be served
•  Combined Choir meets at 10:30am

 10:30am WORSHIP BEGINS September 11th

September 11
LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: World Events

• 10:30 Worship Service (9:30am Classes for all ages)
• 10:30am  Lamentations 1 & 3
• Education Sunday & Choir Begins
• Staff Recognition Sunday
•  Mission Fair and Coffee Hour after Worship
• Wear Red, White, and Blue

 September 18
LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: Health & Wholeness

• Joshua 1:1-9
• Dedication of Teachers & Presentation of Bibles
• Child Dedicaton

 September 25
HOMECOMING SUNDAY
LIVING CONFIDENTLY in UNCERTAIN TIMES: Future Plans

•  Genesis 12 & 15
•  Bring a Guest & Meet Some Friends
•  Dedication of New Hymnbooks
•  Reunion Reception following the service

______________________________________________

WOMEN’S COUNCIL
The Women of the Church are looking for individuals or groups to share their special talents by assisting with the Inspiration Table in the rear of the Church.  Please see Donna Price to find out what months are available.

WHITE CROSS BANDAGE ROLLING
All women are invited to come to the Church on the 2^nd Wednesday of each month at 10 am beginning on October 12^th to help roll bandages for our White Cross Quota.  Please come and enjoy the company of your church family.  Bring your own scissors and a bag lunch and any clean sheets if you have them.

COMMISSION ON EDUCATION
Launch Sunday for Christian Education will be Sept. 11, 2011 starting at 9:30 am.  We will have a prayer walk through the Christian Education rooms starting at 9 am on September 11, 2011.

Teacher dedication and Bible presentation will be on September 18, 20

WHY?  MAKING SENSE OF GOD’S WILL – Adult Education on Sundays

Adam Hamilton is back with reflections on some questions many Christians ask.  You are invited to explore various perspectives with the Adult Class at 9:30 am in the Lounge.  Each session is complete in itself and does not require any homework.

• 9/11   Why do the innocent suffer?
• 9/18   Why do my prayers go unanswered?
• 9/25   Who Can’t I See God’s will for my life?
• 10/2   Why God’s love prevails

MIRIAM CIRCLE:
Will not be meeting in Sept.  The first fall meeting will be held on Wed. Oct. 5^th at 11 am at Tony’s Restaurant.

OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD:
With back to school sales, now is a good time to buy small items for the shoe boxes which will be collected in early November.

PECAN AND CANDY SALE will be through September.  Order blanks are available.  We were notified the cost of pecans has increased by $2.00.

SAVE THE DATE FOR A GOLDBUG PARTY scheduled for September 29^th at 6 pm in the Church Lounge.  This is an opportunity to earn some money for yourself and for the church by selling any gold jewelry (broken or otherwise) you don’t want.  It’s interesting to watch the appraisals.  Those who attended our successful party in June enjoyed the fellowship and snacks as well as making some money.  More information will be available.  You may want to invite some of your friends.

SCULL-CRAFT CALENDARS FOR YEAR 2012 will be available to buy at the same price as last year.  Shipping/handling costs have increased, but we are not raising the price.  $6.00 per calendar.  Payment at the time of the order would be appreciated, with check made out to Helen Stone.  Deadline for order is Oct. 30.

THE DAUGHTER’S DINNER will be on September 24, 2011 at 6 pm in Titus Hall.  It will be a roast pork dinner.  Ticket prices are $13.00 for adults, $6.50 for children 6-12 and FREE for children 5 and under.  Reservations need to be made by September 18, 2011 by calling the church Office at 463-1930 or Brenda Mertz at 699-9206.  Entertainment by Light of the World ballet group.

Tickets will be sold on September 4^th during coffee hour and September 11^th during coffee hour.

Men’s Bigger Breakfast!

“Imagine the power of thousands of men worldwide simultaneously raising their voices in praise and prayer – be a part of that power.”   Saturday, September 24, 2011. 

 Men from Eastwood Baptist are inviting men from the surrounding churches to joins us for a

 “Bigger Breakfast” at Eastwood Baptist

Saturday – September 24^th – at 8am

3212 James Street – Syracuse

Baptist Men in the United States and Canada will be joining Baptist Men in Europe and Africa on September 24, 2011, for a “somewhat” simultaneous men’s breakfast. Begun in the United Kingdom in 2008, Baptist Men from across England gathered in churches, homes, and restaurants at 9 a.m. for breakfast and more. Besides sharing a meal, The Bigger Breakfast became the forum for challenging men to focus on their role as spiritual leaders.

Reservations can be made by calling the church office:  463-1930 or email:  ebcabc@twcny.rr.com

Junior & Senior High Youth

Saturday, September 17^th

9am – 1:30pm

On September 17th, there will be a Day of Service in the Syracuse area for Junior & Senior High youth.  We’ll meet and finish at Fay Road Baptist Church, Syracuse – but we’ll head out to different worksites during the morning hours. Call Laurie Hadlick if you can go!

INVITATION to CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

As a believer in Jesus Christ, you are invited to become a member of the Eastwood Baptist Church congregation. Our congregation is composed of members and non-members, seeking to be a community, the Body of Christ in the world.  Church membership is an important way of establishing our commitment to a worshipping community of disciples of Jesus Christ. If you have been thinking about becoming a member, please speak to Pastor Bailey. A membership orientation with the pastor and the Membership Commission will help answer questions.

Membership usually follows one of these paths:

• Baptism by immersion, or
• Transfer of membership from another Christian Church, or
• Experience, the personal declaration of faith in Christ.

INVITATION to BAPTISM

Several times a year we extend an invitation to youth (6th grade or older) and adults to declare their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism by immersion. The early Christians, after gladly receiving the Gospel, were baptized to publicly be counted among the followers of Christ. Baptism is on outward demonstration of an inward decision.

• Christians follow Christ’s example (Mt. 3:13-17)
• Christ directed us to be baptized (Mt. 28:19)
•  Baptism is a way to make your faith public (Acts 2:41)
•  Baptism is a visual picture of the Christian life (Romans 6:4)

Speak to Pastor Bailey of your interest or questions.

On the July 4th weekend, Eastwood Baptist and James Street Methodist will be sharing worship together for that one Sunday. (James Street Methodist will come here September 4th.)

• YES – There will be no service at Eastwood Baptist because we will all be at James Street.
• YES – Both Pastor Bailey and Pastor Baum will share the service and sermon and communion.
• YES – The time is 11am (Pastor Baum has to conduct worship in Minoa before coming to Eastwood.)
• YES – If you would be willing to sing in a combined spontaneous choir, come at 10:30am.

Summer Series on Solomon

King Solomon!

What does the name bring to mind?

Wisdom?

Riches?

Dividing babies?

Proverbs?

Ecclesiastes?

Song of Solomon?

This summer, we will be studying the life of this ruler of Israel, the last king of a united kingdom.

Frederick Buechner writes in his book, Peculiar Treasures, that Solomon…

Was a product of the scandalous liaison between King David and Uriah’s wife Bathsheba

Was brought up in that hot-bed of oriental intrigue

Spent his formative years under the thumb of his beautiful but conniving mother

Was the first of the big time spenders

Put up a Temple in Jerusalem that had to be seen to be believed…

and the amount of gold they used to

            trim it inside and out would have bankrupted Fort Knox

Had 699 or more wives…the daughter of Pharoah was not his only wife

Was famous for his great wisdom

He was a man of contradictions and I hope you can join us in the journey through his life.

WORSHIP HIGHLIGHTS FOR SUMMER – 9:30am Worship Hour Begins July 10^th

• July 10    SOLOMON:  If You Only Had One Wish, I Kings 3:1-15
• July 17   REV. CHUCK KELLER
• July 24   SOLOMON: Building Temples, I Kings 5,6,8
• July 31   SOLOMON: If My People…, 2 Chronicles 7:11-16
• August   7  SOLOMON: What’s the Worst that Could Happen?, I Kings 9:1-9, Communion Sunday
• August  14  SOLOMON: Leaving Good Impressions, I Kings 10:1-13
• August  21  SOLOMON:  Riches and Other Distractions, I Kings 10:14-29; 11, Ecclesiastes 2
• August  28  SOLOMON: If You Had It To Do Over Again, Ecclesiastes 12
• Sept 4, 11am    WORSHIP CELEBRATION at Eastwood Baptist, James Street Methodist Church joins us for worship, Communion Sunday, Choir Practice at Eastwood Baptist at 10:30am

 COMMISSION ON EDUCATION –

 Nursery:  Volunteers needed and appreciated for nursery during worship.  Sign up on door.  Thank you for your help!

Sunday School Note:  Children Kindergarten and older will remain in church during worship this summer.  Activity packs will be provided during children’s time in worship.  These packs contain bible focused activities, age appropriate.

WHO’S IN THE PEWS PHOTO SESSION COMING JUNE 26.

We Missed You!
Well, the first round of photo gathering produced a total of 44 family pictures sporting 84 people. We consider this a good start, but we are definitely missing too many of you to make it a success. So this is an all-points bulletin for those missing to:

•  Email a picture to the office at ebcabc@twcny.rr.com. Be sure to include the names of those in the picture from left to right
• Bring in a picture to the church office for us to scan. Be sure to include the names of those in the picture from left to right
• Come to the library after church on Sunday, June 26 and let us take your picture.

The purpose of the pictorial is to help us put names with the faces we see in and around church- a way to get to know each other better. Please do your part to make this a successful project.

Thanks and God bless.

Membership Commission

SPECIAL MUSIC –

Chung Hee Lee, our choir director, is looking for person/persons for the summer to be willing to participate (on Sundays) in the special Music segment for the worship service.  Please call Chung Hee Lee or church office + there is a sign up sheet in the choir room, if you can participate.  Thank You!  Special Music will be performed during the summer months.

EASTWOOD BAPTIST NURSERY SCHOOL & PRE-K  -

Spread the word, Registrations are being accepted for the Fall 2011-2012 school year.  We offer child centered, individualized learning in small classes.  Thre3e and four year olds will benefit from the caring and Christian environment.  To find our more, check the website <EastwoodBaptistChurch.org> or call the church office 463-1930.

Let the little children come to me…for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.- Matthew 19:14

Children are not the future of the church. They are the church today. – My friend Ellen

On June 12^th  we celebrate Children’s Sunday, a time to honor the gift of being a child. I hope you can be there to encourage our children and remember your own childhood.   Jesus tells us that our faith can be compared to childlike trust. Out of deference to what has become one of the rainiest seasons on record, the children will be presenting a dramatic version of Noah and the Ark. Animals, faith lifting songs, a flying dove and even a few jokes will be included. You won’t want to miss it.

How do children learn about the Christian faith? Or more specifically, what can they learn about the Christian faith? Last fall, Christian Ministry Magazine  included an article on how children grow spiritually in the various growing seasons.

Babies and Toddlers

“The stage of infancy may seem simplistic to adults; however, it’s a vital first step in spiritual growth.”

Joyce Meyers points out that infants bond with the caregivers who look after their physical and emotional needs. Consequently, children learn trust from those closest to them. Trust is a foundational concept for any kind of growth to take place. When the church properly provides a safe and caring environment, infants are allowed to experience the first step of having a faith of their own. Also, caregivers can start using the language of faith – songs, prayers, visuals. What can we do?

• Read and talk to little ones about God and Jesus
• Tell children that Jesus loves them
• Imitate religious behavior
• Pray with them

Preschoolers

“Unlike their younger counterparts, preschool children are able to understand something exists, even if they can’t see it”.

Gigi Schweikert tells about the day she was teaching preschoolers that Jesus lives in your heart. One student asked, “How does he fit in there?”  Preschoolers are literal thinkers. At this stage, they can pick up knowledge in unexpected places and times. “Preschoolers learn on the go.” At any moment, they can take in an observation. They need to see Christians who value and respect them.

Elementary-Age Kids

“This life stage is one of the most fertile times for planting seeds of faith that can be nurtured to bear fruit through an entire lifetime.”

 If you have early memories of church, they most probably go back to this stage of childhood. At this age, there are lots of questions. Elementary children are fleshing out the details of their faith. Julia Roat-Abla notes that it is important “to let them become familiar with the language and symbols of our faith; it’s as equally important to define those things, use language all kids can understand, and answer their questions without impatience.” The greatest needs at this stage include:

• Reality and Answers to Real Questions
• Understanding Christian Language and Symbols
• Developing Morality and Empathy

Preteens

“Preteen development can be summed up in one word: change.”

Patrick Snow writes: “They change physically, emotionally, socially, and …intellectually.” They no longer accept something because someone says it. They like to do life their own way. They want to experience, test, and interact with faith on their own. They want to grapple with the deeper questions. It is at this stage that they start to own their own faith.

On Sunday, June 12^th , join us for worship as we continue to teach our children well!

(For the complete article:        http://www.childrensministry.com/articles/growing-season)

SPECIAL MUSIC – Chung Hee Lee, our choir director, is looking for person/persons for the summer to be willing to participate (on Sundays) in the special Music segment for the worship service.  Please call Chung Hee Lee or church office + there is a sign up sheet in the choir room, if you can participate.  Thank You!  Special Music will be performed during the summer months. 

COMMISSION ON EDUCATION –

• Children’s Sunday is June 12^th.  Please bring your children at 9 am on the 12^th so they can practice for the play.
• Graduate recognition is June 19^th.  Please come and celebrate with our graduates and please let the office know about your graduates.
• Children’s Ministry ends June 26^th.  Nursery care will be provided during the summer (5 and under).  Volunteers needed!

CHURCH PICNIC – Sunday June 12^th will be the Eastwood Baptist Church Picnic immediately following church services here at the church.  Chicken, Hot Dogs, buns and Fruit salad will be supplied.  Those who can, please bring a dish to pass.  Games will be organized for kids and you are invited to bring lawn games, outdoor chairs and plenty of sunshine that only you can bring and share.  This is a great opportunity to get to know each other better.

CAMPER SCHOLARSHIPS – Anyone interested in attending Camp Pathfinder or Camp Vick can apply for scholarships by contacting Brenda Mertz or Carolyn Walczyk or the Church Office.

GRADUATES –

Shelby Cadiz – Graduating from James Dewitt High School where she was on the Deans List all semesters and a member of the National Honor Society.  She is planning to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC where she will study Interior Design.

Alyssa Crowell – Graduating in August  LeMoyne College – Physician Assistant Program

Tanner DeWolf – Graduated from Morrisville College with a Degree in Renewable Technology.  

Chaz Foland –Graduated from SU-BA Degree in Finance from Whitman School of Business and a BS Degree in Economics from the School of Arts & Science.  Chaz has accepted a job with JP Morgan Chase as an analyst in NYC.

Casie Kimbrell –Graduated from Clarkson with a Masters in Business. 

Jessie Kimbrell – Graduated from SUNY Canton in Business.  Will be attending SUNY Brockport Nursing Program in the Fall

Rob Lemos – Graduated from MIT/Sloan – Administration: Entrepreneurship Management and Innovation with a Masters in Business

Peter Neeves – Graduated from University of Buffalo, Master Degree in Education

Kelley Pendergast – Graduated from St. Joseph University, Philadelphia, PA with a BS Degree in Business

Andrea Sargent – Graduated from LeMoyne College with MA in Accounting – CPA Program

Emily Stoddard – Graduating from Fayetteville-Manlius High School.  Enrolled at The School of Art and Design in the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University.

Alison Wood – Graduated from University of Buffalo – Bachelor in Arts/Sociology

July 3rd Combined Worship Service at 11:00am at James Street Methodist

On the July 4th weekend, Eastwood Baptist and James Street Methodist will be sharing worship together for that one Sunday. (James Street Methodist will come here September 4th.)

YES – There will be no service at Eastwood Baptist because we will all be at James Street.

YES – Both Pastor Bailey and Pastor Baum will share the service and sermon and communion.

YES – The time is 11am (Pastor Baum has to conduct worship in Minoa before coming to Eastwood.)

YES – If you would be willing to sing in a combined spontaneous choir, come at 10:30am.

New Hymnbook Dedications Almost Complete!

We have 150 hymnal gifts so far towards our goal of 180. If you still want to make a gift, use the form below and send it in this month. We will place the order in July for a September 25^th dedication in worship on Homecoming Weekend.

Worship & Rejoice is Hope Publishing’s most up-to-date hymnal available. This extensive collection of 749 titles contains all the essential traditional hymns, plus over 100 of the top contemporary worship songs. With the diverse needs of today’s church in mind, the editors have included the best new hymns from today’s hymn writers, multicultural and global songs, spirituals, ecumenical songs and Taize titles. The broad scope of Worship & Rejoice makes it the richest resource available for blending different styles of music together in one service. www.worshipandrejoice.com

 “I feel sure that the one who has begun his good work in you will go on developing it until the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6 Phillips Translation

As the disciples shared in a glorious day of resurrection joy on the first Easter morning, their work did not end, but continued with the spirit of Christ in their hearts. The good work that God has been doing in our lives continues as well and “will go on developing…”  Please look with anticipation to the weeks ahead. Our Board of Deacons has been working on a number of fronts.

Celebrate Communion Sunday is May 1^st!

Why do we celebrate the Lord’s Supper and what does it mean? On Sunday morning around 9:30am, you are invited to gather in the sanctuary for an educational experience on communion. Open to all people and ages, we will consider the story behind Lord’s Supper and hope to answer questions. During the morning service, we will share in the communion meal.

Who’s in the Pews?

It started out as a new way to make a pictorial directory. In this digital age, we can make a directory of the faces you see each Sunday (and those who are home) just by collecting the photos and printing our own. Then the Membership Commission suggested it be a way to meet people and it started to take off. For the first three Sundays in May, we will be wearing name tags and asking you to meet the familiar strangers you see in church. It may mean moving seats, bringing friends, and having your picture taken in the library. Join us!

Child Dedication Statement

Printed in this newsletter is our statement of beliefs and practices regarding Child Dedication. This completes a series of statements that include Membership, Baptism, and Communion that the Deacons have been working on over the last year. The statements will be published in a booklet form over the summer. In 2011, the Deacons will be reviewing our Church Covenant that has been in place for about 50 years; considering the wording, content, and use of the document in the life of the church. A copy of the current covenant is found inside the cover of each hymnbook.

Work Day at Eastwood Baptist Church –

Please meet on May 14^th at 9 am to help clean up around the church (inside and outside)  Thanks!

Communion Sundays with James Street Methodist:

July 3^rd & September 4^th 11 am

As we reach into our neighborhood this year, we will have two opportunities to worship together this summer with our brothers and sisters at James Street Methodist Church. On the first holiday weekend,

July 3^rd, we will meet at the Methodist Church and on September 4^th, they will join us at Eastwood Baptist. Pastor Bailey and Pastor Baum will share in the worship services together and we will share in the Lord’s Supper.  Prior to the service, those willing to join in a spontaneous choir will meet at 10:30am in the host church for practice (no robes and no experience necessary).  Plan on making those holiday weekends memorable by joining in these unique services.

American Baptist of NYS Restructure 

Our field minister, Tom Hast, will be completing his service as field minister as of June 30^th, bringing an era to an end. Field ministry staff are being eliminated in favor of a less costly model. (Read about the big changes in the enclosed article.)

Hands Across the Neighborhood

That’s our theme, and in addition to preaching about it earlier in the year, we have formed a Mission Church Learning Experience Team to start the process of identifying a need we can meet in our community. The Team went to the orientation event and is scheduled to begin training on June 4^th. The end goal is a specific project.

10:30am WORSHIP HIGHLIGHTS FOR MAY

• May 1              CELEBRATE COMMUNION SUNDAY  “ Behind the Table”  I Corinthians 11:17-34, “Who’s In the Pews?”  Begins  [A Communion Learning Experience will be held at about 9:30am]
• May 8              MOTHER’S DAY  “Love Languages”   Ephesians 4: 1-7; 11-16
• May 15            WOMEN’S SUNDAY   “In the Potter’s Hands”, Jeremiah 18:1-6; Psalm 138:8  GUEST: Christy Brownell, Staff Member, ABCNYS & Extreme Team Missionary, Coffee Hour following Worship
• May 22            LIVES OF THE DISCIPLES: “Whatever Happened to Peter?” Teacher Appreciation Sunday
• May 29            LIVES OF THE DISCIPLES:  “Whatever Happened to Judas?” Memorial Day Weekend

SAVE THE DATE –

Annual Spring Meeting of the Iroquois Association will be held Sat. May 21, 2011 at United Church of Auburn.

MORE ROB BELL:

The Adult Class will view and discuss more of Rob Bell’s provocative Nooma DVDS May 8,15, and 22.  Come to the Lounge at 9:30 am to wake up your heart and mind with Bell’s challenging faith questions.  Each session is complete in itself.  May 22 will be the last Adult Class until September 11.

CAMPER SCHOLARSHIPS –

Anyone interested in attending Camp Pathfinder or Camp Vick can apply for scholarships by contacting Brenda Mertz or Carolyn Walczyk or the Church Office.

GRADUATES –

If you have anyone graduating this year, please let the office know so we can recognize him/her.  Graduate Sunday is June 19^th.

Thanks

WOMEN’S SUNDAY –

May 15^th Christy Brownell will be preaching and coffee hour will follow service.

GARAGE SALE –

Start getting your treasures together – Our semi–annual Garage Sale will take place on May 6^th & 7^th.  Help is needed to set up on Wednesday May 4^th and Thursday May 5^th.  Also need help for sales on Friday May 6^th 9-4 and Saturday May 7^th 9-11 am.  Saturday help is needed to clean up.  Please call Ralph Schrack at 463-6418 if you can help.  Thanks!

Needed – paper grocery bags.

PLEASE ONLY RESALABLE ITEMS.
 

WHO’S IN THE PEWS

Ever wonder what that person or family’s name is who sits “in the other pew”. Well, it’s time for a new pictorial directory for the church so get your smiles ready. The plan is to have the pictorial directory available to those who want it printed or send it electronically via pdf to those who prefer it that way. One or two copies will hang out in the back of the church so you no longer have to guess or dodge someone’s name- just look it up!
It would also be good to update your contact information with the church (the yellow cards in the church pew are a good way to do this). Though the pictorial directory will only be pictures and names, we do keep an up to date listing of member and friend information. Of particular interest is your email address since there is a great deal of communication happening between the church and members, and member to member via email these days.

We would encourage everyone to wear a name tag supplied by the church on the first three Sundays in May.  Keep your ears open for details, but we will also be asking you to sit in a different place for just one Sunday.

Pictures will be collected in one of three ways:

1. On the first three Sundays in May, Barry and Sharee will be available to take your picture after church in the library.
2. Bring in a picture and we will scan it for you into an electronic copy.
3. Send us a JPEG file that you would like of you or your family and, though we reserve the right to decline using a photo, we will generally use whatever you want as long as it is appropriate. Pictures can be emailed to ebcabc@twcny.rr.com.

Thank you and God Bless.

Membership Commission

Eastwood Baptist Church Core Beliefs and Practices: Child Dedication

Biblical Context

• Humans bear the image of God from birth (Genesis 1:27)

• The Bible gives examples of parent(s) presenting their children for dedication.

1. Samuel – Hannah presented Samuel after he is weaned (I Samuel 1:21-28)
2. Jesus – Mary & Joseph presented Jesus several days after the birth, in connection with circumcision and naming the child (Luke 2:22-24)
3. Jesus informally blesses children (Mark 10:13-14)

• Jesus compares the life of a child to God-like characteristics. At one point in Jesus’ teaching, he compared the Christian faith to being like a child.

“Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven”.

Matthew 18:3,4

• The Bible describes several situations that give us some understanding regarding God’s view of children.
1. The disciples were preoccupied with the crowds who had come to see Jesus and in their efforts to protect him from unnecessary interruptions; they tried to keep the children away. Jesus noticed and quickly said, “Let the children come to me…”  and blessed them. (Matthew 19:13-15)
2. Mothers brought their babies & children to Jesus so he would touch them (Luke 18:15-17)

•  There are no instructions in the Bible regarding the practice of child dedication equivalent to those instructions given regarding communion and baptism.

Constitution & Bylaws – There is no mention of Child Dedication or its equivalent.

Tradition

• Child Dedication is traditionally celebrated in a morning worship service.
• The family is given a certificate and a white rose.  (A red rose is given at birth.)
• The congregation is asked to dedicate its support.

Child Dedication Understandings

• Child Dedication is a simple act of prayer for a child and the child’s family.
• We dedicate children in recognition that each child is a gift from God.
• The religious ceremony is a time in the worship service when parent(s) or family members present themselves and their child, or children, to God in the presence of the congregation. 
• The ceremony is performed during a worship service because we believe the church family dedicates itself, in an appropriate way, to support the child and family in the child’s spiritual development.
• In the ceremony, parent(s) present their child to God, praying for protection and guidance, as well as expressing thankfulness for the child’s life.
• While the role of “godparent” does not have a specific status in Baptist churches, we recognize that some families may designate such a role for cultural or legal reasons.
• We believe that children may be dedicated in worship, regardless of church membership and without an expectation of church membership.
• While Child Dedication may occur when a child is an infant, Child Dedication is not equivalent to baptism or church membership.
  

Our Child Dedication Practices

• When a family desires Child Dedication, the Pastor should be contacted for a meeting to explain its meaning.
• Child Dedication may be celebrated during any worship service convenient to the family and church.

• Family members and friends are welcome to stand with the child and immediate family as a visible expression of support.
• A certificate and white rose is given to the family.
• As a guideline, an outline of the ceremony may include these four main parts:

1. Presentation of the Child

    What name have your given your child?

    Why do you want to present your child for dedication?

2. Dedication of the Family

As you present your child to the Lord today, do you promise, with the help of Almighty God, to care for _____________________ in a manner honoring unto God, to encourage and pray for your child, and to raise your child so that he/she may have the opportunity to know the love of God shown in our Savior, Jesus Christ?

3. Response of the Congregation (This would be worded to fit the family situation.)

 As witnesses to this promise, do you, family, friends, and congregation, promise to also be part of God’s larger family for ________________________, encouraging faith and supporting this family in the days to come?

4. Moments of Prayer

                                                                                                            (Approved April 12, 2011)

Letter from the American Baptist Churches, NYS

April 28, 2011

Dear Friends:

We are writing to inform you of a significant change in the way ABC/NYS has recently served its churches.  At its April meeting the ABC/NYS Board of Mission approved a new executive staffing model that continues our Region’s commitment to serve the needs of local churches with assistance in pastoral searches, emergency needs, conflict mediation and resolution, and in congregational transformation and renewal.  This new model, when fully implemented will include the following executive staff positions:

1)      a full-time Executive Minister

2)      a full-time Associate Executive Minister

3)      a region-wide volunteer Regional Enhancement Team

4)      a team of volunteer Pastors to minister to the pastoral care needs of our Region’s clergy

As a result, our current field ministry staff, all of whom have been serving on a part-time basis, will conclude their responsibilities to ABC/NYS on June 30, 2011.  Rev. Dr. Tom Hast, Rev. James Meek, Rev. George Norton, and Rev. Dr. Robert Shoesmith will receive an additional one-month severance.  Rev. Dr. John Buskey will continue full time:  serving 75% with Outdoor Ministries and 25% dedicated to other region assignments.  It is also important to note that our Outdoor Ministries facilities and programs are currently being evaluated by the American Baptist Institute of Camp and Conference Ministries.  A report from the evaluation team is expected by early fall.

To begin to implement this new executive staff model, Rev. Jane Lang has been employed as the full-time Interim Associate Executive Minister.  Jane is already at work recruiting, training, and deploying this new Regional Enhancement Team.  We intend to have a team in place as soon as possible to provide a seamless transition from our current staffing structure to our new staffing model.  Jane will serve until a new full-time Executive Minister is called.  At that time, Jane intends to retire.

Please know that these decisions have not been easily made.  Much prayer and soul-searching has been involved.   In making these decisions, we have tried to address two critical issues:

1)      How can ABC/NYS continue serving our churches in meaningful ways?

2)      How does ABC/NYS live within its budget limitations?

We believe that recruiting, training, and deploying a team of equipped leaders to serve as our Regional Enhancement Team is key to the success of this new staffing model.  In the next few weeks, association leaders from across the region will be consulted to seek their input on developing this Team.  The continued support of our churches is essential as we seek to be good stewards of the people and monetary resources with which God has blessed ABC/NYS.

We covet your prayerful support as we move ahead during this important time of transition.  Please contact us if you have any question that we can answer about our new executive staffing model.

Rev. Lynn Sullivan                             Rev. Dr. Wayne M. Paulsen

ABC/NYS President                          Interim Executive Minister of Administration

Every year, Easter Sunday appears on a different place in the calendar depending on the full moon and the Spring Equinox, but always between March 22^nd and April 25^th.   This year Easter is one of the latest and while Lent is appropriate for the dreary days of March, Easter promises the warmth of Spring and the new life we celebrate in Jesus Christ.  May Christ appear to us all as we come and honor the season.

WORSHIP HIGHLIGHTS FOR LENT & EASTER

April 3       PRODIGAL GOD: The True Elder Brother

Luke 15:1-6, 25-32, Communion Sunday,  Believer’s Baptism  (Spring Fun Day for families & children after worship)

April 10    PRODIGAL GOD: Feast of the Father

Luke 15:11-32,  Coffee Hour

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COMMISSION ON EDUCATION

Spring Fun Day all kids invited  – pre-k through 5^th and families April 3^rd after service – lunch will be provided.

LENTEN EXPLORATION OF 24 HOURS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD

Come to the Adult Class to view sites associated with the last day of Jesus’ life.  Adam Hamilton will guide our step by step journey:

• April 3    The Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane
• April 10  Condemned by the Righteous and Jesus, Barabbas, Pilate
• April 17  Torture, Humiliation, and Crucifixion

Please join us in the Lounge at 9:30 am.

A HAITI THANK YOU

Thank you for your generous support of our mission trip to Haiti. Hopefully, you had a chance to see the pictures or hear the stories. If not, one of us is usually carrying around the photo album and we’d be glad to tell you more. (Some pictures are on the website) Paul & Phyllis Bailey

COMING IN MAY

Photo Directory Sundays begin!

• May 1              Celebrate Communion Sunday Learning Experience
• May 6-7         Garage Sale
• May 13            Daughter Banquet
• May 14            Work Day at Church
• May 14            Iroquois Association Mtg in Auburn
• May 15            Women’s Sunday with guest Christy Brownell
• May 20-22     Pathfinder Youth Retreat

Hymn singing has had a bumpy ride throughout the life of the church. At various points, it was virtually banned or left to the professionals only. Isaac Watts “broke the ice” with the introduction of singing Psalms from the Bible. The singing of hymns was not officially approved in the Church of England until 1820. As it was introduced, a common method of singing was “lining out”. A leader would read a line and then the congregation would sing it in response. As you can imagine, it took a long time to sing a hymn, let alone the fact that many hymns had a dozen or more stanzas. There was no continuous flow to the music. Hymnbooks were expensive and many did not know how to read, so it was a good alternative. As the decades passed, publishing became more cost effective and literacy increased. Hymns slowly grew in popularity through the work of Charles and John Wesley, the growth of the Sunday School movement, and the spread of revival and camp meetings.  In 1700, there were few English hymns. By 1800, hymnbooks were everywhere.

The first hymnbooks were only words. The first American hymnbook to join tunes with texts didn’t get published until 1831. In fact, most hymns started out as scripture or poems that were later set to music. Hymnbooks would eventually become partners to the Bible. Even today, the Burmese often carry their own Bible and hymnbook to church each Sunday. At Eastwood, we have two hymnbooks and a Bible in each pew. It is hard to imagine meaningful worship without hymns to accompany the scriptures.

As today, changes regarding singing in church have always met with controversy. There have been debates over whether hymn singing profaned worship, debates over the content of the lyrics, and debates over the quality of the singing, Some tunes may have originated in saloons, for example. The Wesleys were concerned about brawlers and brayers. In 1861, John Wesley wrote advice on singing that included:

1. Learn these tunes before you learn any others; afterwards learn as many as you please.
2. Sing them exactly as they are printed here, without altering or mending them at all; and if you have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon as you can.
3. Sing all. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. Let not a single degree of weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing.
4. Sing lustily and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, than when you sung the songs of Satan.
5. Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, that you may not destroy the harmony; but strive to unite your voices together, so as to make one clear melodious sound.
6. Sing in time. Whatever time is sung be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it; but attend close to the leading voices, and move therewith as exactly as you can; and take care not to sing too slow. This drawling way naturally steals on all who are lazy; and it is high time to drive it out from us, and sing all our tunes just as quick as we did at first.

Other concerns arose, as well. There was the fear of the music leading to irrational enthusiasm. Today, technology has led to other changes. Screens and projectors are common. Songs are sung in unison, rather than in parts. There may come a time when hymnals will be obsolete all together.

John Wesley’s last instruction for singing is the real reason we sing. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing him more than yourself, or any other creature. In order to do this attend strictly to the sense of what you sing, and see that your heart is not carried away with the sound, but offered to God continually; so shall your singing be such as the Lord will approve here, and reward you when he cometh in the clouds of heaven.

It is in this context that the Worship Commission is enthusiastic about introducing the congregation to a new hymnbook:

Worship & Rejoice is Hope Publishing’s most up-to-date hymnal available. This extensive collection of 749 titles contains all the essential traditional hymns, plus over 100 of the top contemporary worship songs. With the diverse needs of today’s church in mind, the editors have included the best new hymns from today’s hymn writers, multicultural and global songs, spirituals, ecumenical songs and Taize titles. The broad scope of Worship & Rejoice makes it the richest resource available for blending different styles of music together in one service.    www.worshipandrejoice.com

Why a new hymnal? Our current blue hymnal was published in the 1970’s. The music selections do not include the last 40 years of new music. The red hymnal is even older. Many of the blue hymnals are falling apart and the supply in the sanctuary is dwindling.

Why this hymnal? Here’s what the Worship Commission and our Music staff concluded:

• It is one of the most recently published – 2006
• It includes almost 200 more hymns than our current book and includes our most loved hymns from both the red and blue hymnals
• The print is a little larger
• The music is generally in a key that is more easily sung.
• It includes a selection of more contemporary songs, as well as new hymns set to familiar tunes.

What is the plan? Our goal is to order the hymnbooks over the summer so they will be introduced in the fall of 2011. We would like 180 – 200 hymnbooks at a cost of $15 per book. Here is the cost breakdown:

Hymnbook                  $12.95

Postage                        $  1.50

Additional Items     $    .55 (Dedication plates, organist resources, etc.)

TOTAL                       $15.00

We would like to offer the opportunity for the congregation to contribute hymnbooks; and if desired, have a dedication plate placed on the inside of each donated hymnbook. Currently, the memorial funds of Jack and Helen Gaffield can cover up to 130 hymnbooks. You can use the form below and send it in with the appropriate amount anytime over the next few months.

Thank you for joining us in making “joyful sounds’ to the Lord!

2011  LENTEN SCHEDULE

The season of Lent has its roots in the practices of the early Christian church. Potential converts went through a period of fasting for 40 hours before their baptism on Easter. Over time, the 40 hour fast became 40 days of prayer, fasting and contemplation. The weeks prior to Easter continue for us as a time for reflection on our life with Christ. Consider make some of these events part of your contemplation this year.

ASH WEDNESDAY – March 9^th at 7pm

Lent begins with a service of confession and repentance. Originally a service for Christians who had fallen into serious sin, the church continues the practice so as to prepare all Christians for this holy season of reflection. The service includes scripture and songs that allow us to renew our relationship with God, and if one desires, to receive a symbolic mark of ashes on the hand.

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES

Beginning Sunday, March 13^th, we will begin a study of the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Luke 15. Using the resources of Timothy Keller and his study entitled, The Prodigal God, each Sunday will examine the parable from a different perspective.

The People Around Jesus

Two Lost Sons

The Elder Brother with Guest: Rev. Scott Kavanagh

The True Elder Brother

The Feast of the Father

WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY – Eastwood Baptist Library 7pm

Following each Sunday’s presentation, you are invited to join in a further discussion of that week’s theme that will include a short video reflection by Timothy Keller and further study of Luke 15.

COMMUNITY LENTEN LUNCHES – Wednesdays beginning March16th

Time: Noon to 1 pm

Location: The Reformed Church of Syracuse

In an effort to gather as Christians for weekly reflection, you are invited to join in a Lenten Lunch series at The Reformed Church of Syracuse at 1228 Teall Ave (Corner of James & Teall).

We gather in the fellowship hall for a simple meal of soup and bread, followed by a brief time of worship at the tables.

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Deacon’s Retreat Open to All!

On March 12^th from 9am to Noon, the Deacons invite any interested folks to join in a morning of reflection on the missional church and our theme for the year: Reaching Across the Neighborhood. Come early for breakfast pizza and coffee.

9 am     Opening Worship

9:15     Tom Hadlick – Demographics of Eastwood

10:00   Pastor Neil Strong – Missional Church Approach to Church Ministry

11:00   Case Study

EDUCATION COMMISSION -
March 13^th the Education Commission invites you to the Thank You Lasagna Dinner for camp scholarships.  Join us after worship for some incredible lasagna.  Also, there will be a presentation by Paul & Phyllis Bailey on their experiences in Haiti.

GENEROUS THOUGHTS – Habit of the Heart

By Richard M. Jones, Retired Deputy Executive Director of National Ministries, American Baptist Churches USA.

Robert Bellah’s exceptional book, Habits of the Heart, traces the ways in which people commit themselves to what they value, which becomes close to being, for them, their religion.

In our experience of giving to God’s church and mission, there was no conscious sense of saying a tithe is what we give – no more, no less – because it is the biblical starting point.

Rather, our “habit of the heart” became a habit because the need we saw and the commitment we felt.  Only after that was there a realization that a tithe helped to set a beginning point.

This “habit of the heart” began during our first pastorate when we made $3,000 a year.  It continues today.  Habits are not bad if they are habits of the heart – for the revise of Matthew’s verse is also true:

“where your heart is, there will your treasure be also.”

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AMERICA FOR CHRIST OFFERING 2011

The Theme this year: Touching Lives, Transforming People

AMERICA FOR CHRIST gifts support Christ-centered ministries that touch lives and transform people across the United States and Puerto Rico–through evangelism training, church renewal and discipleship resources, volunteer disaster response plus initiatives that fight poverty and so much more.

As we read the gospels, we are presented with a loving Lord as someone who does things, not someone who did things.  One of the greatest dangers of Christianity is to think of Jesus as someone to be remembered, instead of someone to be met and experienced.  As the church in the 21st century, our calling is to help people see the power of the risen Christ in action today. Our goal for this ministry is

$1,000 – 50% of monies go to America for Christ, 25% to the Center for New Americans, 25% to the Samaritan Center.  An envelope is enclosed.  Thanks!