Spring?? SFCOG updates for 3/3

Sunday is coming, and Spring is on the way!

 

Do you love Spring?

(It feels like it keeps coming and going away again)

 

According to various polls, Spring is the #2 favorite season (Fall is #1).

It would seem that the older you are, the more likely it is that you love spring.

 

In Nature, Spring is all about New Life, Renewed Purpose, Restored Strength, and Life prevailing over Death.

 

These are also some of the themes we find in Romans chapter 8, which we will begin studying this weekend as we start a new series entitled,

“What New Life Looks Like.”

 

 

Romans 8 is all about the assurance that we have for New Life through Jesus, and the way it grows within us by His Holy Spirit.

 

Last month we studied what it means to Abide with Jesus, In Step with the Spirit. Expanding upon these themes, in the letter of Romans, Paul helps Christians to understand the truth of the Gospel and how to live out our faith in Jesus.

 

Chapter 8 is at the Center of this letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the early church in Rome, and it is a chapter with many well-known verses that are not always considered in full context. It’s packed full of important and memorable statements, but they all build to make a bigger case.

 

That brings me to what is Perhaps the best-known statement in Romans 8: verse 28—

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

 

As we will see, this verse can serve as the turning point on which this whole chapter (and book) hinges. But as with all scripture, the beauty of this verse is best appreciated in context with the rest of the verses around it.

 

It’s sort of like the difference between a flower in a pot, and a full garden in bloom:

 

Which would you prefer? Give me the Garden! Scripture in context help us to get a more complete picture of “what new life looks like.”

 

We will take our time working through this whole chapter in the weeks to come, but this weekend we will consider some background, and specifically focus on Romans 8:28, asking the question: what does it mean for someone to be “Called according to His Purpose?”

 

Instead of just pondering that question in theory, we will also hear from two people who have recently had the opportunity to consider what it means to actually live this out in practice!

 

Two of our young leaders had the chance to attend two different retreats offered by our denomination that helped them to consider matters related to being called by God for a purpose, and I’ve asked them to come and share their experiences with you!

 

As we learn about “what new life looks like” in others, my prayer is that we will each be challenged to continue growing and advancing along the path of discipleship as we abide in Jesus and keep in step with the Spirt, to the Glory of God our Father!

 

 

This Sunday

As a part of our Sermon time, we will hear reports from Victoria Kalp who participated in the CGGC Pulse Retreat and from our contemporary worship leader, Jonathan Scott, who attended the Camp YoliJwa Young Adult Retreat.

 

We will be offering our “Get Connected” class this Sunday at 9:45. This is a great way to learn about our small groups, Sunday School classes, and other ministries that we offer to help you study God’s Word, get to know people, find community, and grow in faith. This class will be offered in room 104 (next to the church library, adjacent to the sanctuary).

 

To help you prepare your hearts for worship this week, check out the songs we plan to sing together:

 

8:30 –The choir will lead us in step with the Spirit towards exaltation of our Heavenly Father with a variety of Hymns:

719 “Children of the Heavenly Father”

585 “Be Still and Know”

3 “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty”

390 “Spirit of God Descend upon My Heart”

 

11:00 –The Contemporary Worship team will share some songs praising God for what he’s done through Christ:

“Forever Reign”

“Grace Alone”

“Yet Not I but Through Christ”

“Christ be Magnified”

 

NEW! Jon has put together a Spotify playlist featuring a variety of songs we sing on Sundays at 11:00. Enjoy!

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7E8YRF1NCIGbFoMNYNPn9K?si=ZivXqX5MRWe3nIDG1nx_qw&pi=u-Y90v2ygGSTKK

 

 

Upcoming Opportunities

This Sunday Afternoon (March 3) from 2:00-4:00, we have reserved the Gymnasium at Camp YoliJwa for some Kickball! This is open to people of all ages and it would be a wonderful opportunity to invite some friends and neighbors who may not attend worship on Sunday Mornings to get to know some people in our church family in a fun way. Feel free to come and cheer us on, even if you don’t intend to play. It’s also a great opportunity to check out the Camp facilities if you haven’t done so before (summer camp registration will be open soon, and scholarships are available).

 

You are all invited to our first Fellowship Meal in the newly renovated Cross Roads Station fellowship hall!

It will take place on Sunday, March 17^th, at 12:15 (following the 11:00 worship service). We will be providing baked spaghetti, garlic bread, and drinks, and we will invite each family to bring a salad or desert. Sign Up sheets are located in Sunday School classes and around the building to RSVP for planning purposes.

 

Grief Share

A new season of the Grief Share ministry is beginning tonight (Thursday, February 29) in the Annex from 6:00-8:00 and will meet every Thursday through May 23. Grief Share features biblical, Christ-centered teaching that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. The video seminar features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people, followed by a small group discussion about what was viewed.

 

Many grieving people find they are only beginning the work of healing when friends or family have returned to their daily life routines. Too often people, including Christians, tend to stuff their grief instead of allowing it to do the God-given work for which it is intended. Don’t allow fear of what others may think to keep you from what could help you.  Confidentiality is very much a part of this program.

 

You will find encouragement, comfort and help. No matter what the cause of your loved one’s death, this is an opportunity to be around people who understand what you are feeling.   You will learn how to recognize the symptoms of being stuck in grief and that you do not need to live in bondage to certain emotions. You will learn valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future.

 

We do not want you to walk this journey alone.  To learn more, feel free to contact the church office at 717.532.8421.

 

Women’s Ministry Secret Sisters

If you were unable to attend the Secret Sister Party last Sunday, but would still like to participate in this ongoing prayer ministry, we would like to give you the opportunity to exchange names and be matched with a secret sister for this coming year. To be a secret sister, all you need to do is pray for your secret sister throughout the year. You may also secretly send cards and give small gifts if you like.  Remember, someone will be praying for and thinking about you too! If you would like to submit your name and receive a name, contact secretary Sonja Shively in the church office (secretary@shipfcog.org).

 

Men’s Bible Study

We had 17 men come out for the Men’s Alliance Bible Study which began this week! It will continue to meet on Monday evenings at 6:30 in the Annex, and all men are welcome to attend (even if they are not involved in MA on Saturdays). The first series will feature the book No More Excuses: Be the Man God Made You to Be by Tony Evans. The study book can be purchased at this link: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/no-more-excuses-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005843170

 

 

Senior Ministry Highlights

• The brunch for Widows, Widowers, & Singles (age 50+) that was postponed due to winter weather has been rescheduled for this Saturday, March 2 at 10:30 in the Annex. Come join in for some food and fellowship!

 

• The annual Good Friday Luncheon provided to Senior Citizens (60+) by the Busch Trust Fund will be taking place in the Cross Roads Station fellowship hall on March 29 at Noon. Sign-up sheets will be located in the Sunday School classes. Please Register by March 22 for planning purposes.

 

 

Children & Youth

• Our children’s ministry is preparing some special Easter activities for kids and families on Saturday, March 23. More details coming soon!
• Our Youth Retreat is taking place at Camp YoliJwa on March 8-10. Registrations are due!

 

 

Let us all live according to God’s purpose!

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Helpful Links:

Website (shipfcog.org)

SFCOG Facebook

Online Messages (shipfcog.org)

Online Giving (shipfcog.org)

Care Groups & Sunday School Classes

 

*Weather Alerts/ Schedule Changes (shipfcog.org)*

 

Weekly Order of Worship and FYI Newsletter (updated over the weekend)

shipfcog.net/site/shipfcog/shipnews/index.html

Prayer update

Dear Family,

 

Jane Chamberlin’s surgery went well this morning.  She will be staying at least one night in Chambersburg Hospital.

 

Jim and Sharon Dick are recovering from Covid.  Sharon is also battling some additional health concerns as well.

 

 For His Glory,

 

Pastor Gary

 

Pastor Gary

 

 

Gary Hornbaker

Shippensburg First Church of God

Pastor of Visitation and Discipleship

Church Phone: 717-532-8421

 

Please pray!

Dear Family,

 

Please pray for Jane Chamberlin who is having surgery this morning.

 

Jack Mellott’s viewing with be on Wednesday, February 28 at 10:00 at the Fogelsanger-Bricker Funeral Home followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00.

 

“Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.  To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”  Ephesians 6:18

 

 

 For His Glory,

 

Pastor Gary

 

Pastor Gary

 

 

Gary Hornbaker

Shippensburg First Church of God

Pastor of Visitation and Discipleship

Church Phone: 717-532-8421

 

Please pray!

Dear Family,

 

This morning God called Jack Mellott to Himself to his eternal home.  Jack fought the good fight and persevered until his homegoing.  He would have been 98 years old next Saturday.  Please pray for Nancy and the other family members as they grieve.  Thank you for caring.

 

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”  Psalm 116:15

 

 For His Glory,

 

Pastor Gary

 

Pastor Gary

 

 

Gary Hornbaker

Shippensburg First Church of God

Pastor of Visitation and Discipleship

Church Phone: 717-532-8421

 

Help! SFCOG Updates for 2/25

Sunday is coming, and Help is here!

 

 

Do you need Help?

 

Some of our youth and their leaders had the opportunity to help a member of our congregation this week with some yard clean up after the winter storms. It’s always encouraging to see our church family helping one another!

 

 

You can find help in all forms if you go looking for it…

-Every website has a “help” page where Frequently Asked Questions are answered.

-Most large employers have a Tech Support Help Desk.

-Look on the back of your Credit Card or your Insurance Card and you will find a number to call for help from Customer Service.

-The Beatles have not 1 but 2 songs about ‘Help.’            

 

We must all recognize that we need some help sometimes …and more importantly, we all need God’s Help!

 

Jesus tells us that that Help from God is closer than we could have ever imagined – If we believe in Jesus, then God’s Holy Spirit is living in us! There’s no need to call a phone number, log on to a website, or go to a priest. God’s Spirit is Abiding in you!

 

We’ve been studying what it means to remain or abide in Jesus, the True Vine, as He identifies himself in John 15.

This weekend we will focus on the Holy Spirit who actually Remains in us also!

 

Jesus says in John 15:26--

“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”

 

Previously in John 14:16 &17 he said,

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.”

 

Jesus himself states that it is the Spirit of Truth that He has given us truly lives “with” us and will be “in” us to give us Help from God! When Jesus says the Spirit “lives with you” he’s using the very same Greek word referring to how we are to Remain, Abide, or Dwell in Him, the True Vine.

 

Just as Jesus says we are to “Abide” in Him, He also states that the Spirit of God “Abides” in us!

 

Take comfort in the fact that there is nowhere we can go where we are beyond the help of God’s Holy Spirit—the “Advocate” whom Jesus has sent to help us!

 

In his book, Help is Here, Max Lucado points out that the Spirit overcomes physical restrictions:

“Jesus limited himself to a physical body. He could be only one place at one time. The Holy Spirit, however, is unlimited. He can be everywhere all the time. Jesus was a regional force; the Spirit is a global force. There is no place that he is not!”

 

Max Lucado then quotes Psalm 139:7-8—

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”

 

The Holy Spirit is always abiding with us, ready to help us, as we also abide in Jesus. What help do you need from God today? He has given us an advocate, a helper, a counselor who is always available and more than able to meet our needs.

 

This Sunday

We will celebrate Baptism in both worship services this weekend! 3 individuals will be taking this step of faith and publicly declaring their commitment to Jesus:

• Christopher Adams
• Gloria Erickson
• Connie Killinger

Let us pray for them and encourage them as they mark this milestone of faith, and let’s Give God Glory for the wonderful things he is doing in their lives!

 

To help you prepare your hearts for worship, we’d like to start sharing a glimpse of the worship songs we plan to sing together. Feel free to add them to a playlist or open up the family hymnal at home to contemplate the words we will use to praise our God—

 

Our 8:30 Music will feature a medley of songs about the Holy Spirit, including a verse or two from a few favorite hymns such as:

-“The Comforter Has Come”

-“Holy Spirit, Thou Art Welcome,”

-“Come, Holy Spirit,”

-“Breath on Me, Breath of God”

 

The 11:00 Music team will share some Contemporary Worship songs of celebration:

-“Glorius Day”

-“Build Your Kingdom Here”

-“No Longer Slaves”

-“Who You Say I Am”

 

 

Women’s Ministry Secret Sisters

The Secret Sister Party is being held this Sunday, February 25, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. in Crossroads Station.  All ladies are invited to attend!  Even if you were unable to sign up on one of the sign-up sheets, you are welcome to come and participate. 

There will be games and light refreshments.  Also at the party, any ladies who participated last year will get to find out who their secret sister was this past year, and all the ladies in attendance will get to exchange names and start new secret sisters for this coming year.

To be a secret sister, all you need to do is pray for your secret sister throughout the year, and you may also send cards and give small gifts.  Remember, someone will be praying for and thinking about you too!

If you have any questions, contact Glenda Bistline, Deb Booz, or contact the church office.

 

Men’s Bible Study

Men’s Alliance will be starting a more in-depth Weekly Bible Study on Monday evenings at 6:30 beginning on February 26^th in the Annex. All men are welcome to attend (even if they are not involved in MA on Saturdays). The first series will feature the book No More Excuses: Be the Man God Made You to Be by Tony Evans. The study book can be purchased at this link: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/no-more-excuses-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005843170

 

 

Senior Ministry Highlights

• The brunch for Widows, Widowers, & Singles (age 50+) that was postponed due to winter weather has been rescheduled for next Saturday, March 2 at 10:30 in the Annex. Come join in for some food and fellowship!

 

• The annual Good Friday Luncheon provided to Senior Citizens (60+) by the Busch Trust Fund will be taking place in the Cross Roads Station fellowship hall on March 29 at Noon. Sign-up sheets will be located in the Sunday School classes. Please Register in advance for planning purposes.

 

Outreach Opportunities

On March 3, Next Sunday Afternoon from 2:00-4:00, we have reserved the Gymnasium at Camp YoliJwa for some Kickball! This is open to people of all ages and it would be a wonderful opportunity to invite some friends and neighbors who may not attend worship on Sunday Mornings to get to know some people in our church family in a fun way. Feel free to come and cheer us on, even if you don’t intend to play. It’s also a great opportunity to check out the Camp facilities if you haven’t done so before (summer camp registration will be open soon, and scholarships are available).

 

Children & Youth

• Our children’s ministry is hosting a night of Kids Bingo Games for children and their families this Saturday (February 24^th) from 6-8 in the lower level.
• Our Youth Retreat is taking place at Camp YoliJwa on March 8-10. Registrations are due next Wednesday (February 28^th)

 

Prayer Update

Please add the following to your prayers as they are facing sickness:

-Jim and Sharon Dick

-Dana and Glenda Rotz

 

 

Let us Abide in Jesus, knowing that His Holy Spirit Abides in us!

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Helpful Links:

Website (shipfcog.org)

SFCOG Facebook

Online Messages (shipfcog.org)

Online Giving (shipfcog.org)

Care Groups & Sunday School Classes

 

*Weather Alerts/ Schedule Changes (shipfcog.org)*

 

Weekly Order of Worship and FYI Newsletter (updated over the weekend)

shipfcog.net/site/shipfcog/shipnews/index.html

 

 

 

 

 

Secret Sister Party this Sunday

Hello Church Family,

This is a reminder that the Secret Sister Party is being held this Sunday, February 25, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. in Crossroads Station.  All ladies are invited to attend!  Even if you were unable to sign up on one of the sign-up sheets, you are welcome to come and participate. 

 

There will be games and light refreshments.  Also at the party, any ladies who participated last year will get to find out who their secret sister was this past year, and all the ladies in attendance will get to exchange names and start new secret sisters for this coming year.   To be a secret sister, all you need to do is pray for your secret sister throughout the year, and you may also send cards and give small gifts.  Remember, someone will be praying for and thinking about you too!

 

If you have any questions, contact Glenda Bistline, Deb Booz, or the church office.

Thanks,

Sonja

 

Church Secretary

Sonja Shively

Shippensburg First Church of God

Email Secretary@shipfcog.org

Office Phone 717.532.8421

 

SFCOG Prayer Updates

Hello Church Family,

 

We celebrated together this weekend, but we also want to remember to hold one another in prayer throughout the week.

 

We ask you to join in prayer for Dana Rotz, brother-in-law of Bob and Linda Commerer. Dana has been hospitalized with an infection related to diabetes. Dana’s wife, Glenda, has also been facing some health concerns as well.

 

Continue to remember Bill Grove in prayer as he recovers from a skin condition, and others from our congregation who have been confronted with illnesses or challenges of various kinds.

 

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

Romans 8:26-27

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

Signs of Life - SFCOG council highlights and updates for 2/18

Sunday is coming, and there are many Signs of Life to Celebrate!

 

 

This week as I was walking through my snowy backyard, I noticed that even in the wintry cold, I could tell new life was getting ready to emerge. There are buds on the trees. The green tips of the perennial flowers are starting to work their way up out of the frozen ground. The days are even getting longer. The hope of New Life in spring is unstoppable and lifts the spirits!

 

What makes you feel alive? What gives you hope and makes you feel energized? What makes you want to celebrate? What makes you to say, “it’s a good day!” What causes you to Praise the Lord?

 

Maybe…

-Time w/ family & friends?

-Completing a project?

-Recognition?

-Seeing someone else accomplish something?

-Time in nature?

-Getting away by yourself?

-A favorite hobbies?

-Helping someone else?

 

All of those things might be cause for celebration!  These are “signs of life” and “Fruitfulness.”

 

We have much to Celebrate as a church family! This weekend we are welcoming new members, and we are dedicating CRS to the service of the Lord. We will spend time thanking God for what he has done in and through many different people! Next weekend we will observe Baptism. Each week, children and youth and adults are learning about how to live for Jesus. We are beginning new ministries and Bible Studies, and planning new opportunities to Love God, Love His Family, and Love our Neighbors.

 

All of these “signs of life” find their source in Jesus, the “True Vine” and creator of life!

 

This month, we are considering what it means to Remain in Jesus, the True Vine.

 

In John 15:1-8, Jesus says, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

 

Growing “new life” and “fruit” takes time and care. It requires submission to the gardener. Sometimes pruning is required in our own lives to help bring about the healthiest fruit possible. As we celebrate what God is doing in our church family, we will also consider all of these ideas on a personal level this weekend. How do you remain connected to Jesus so that you may bear fruit?

 

It is my prayer that we will continue to abide in Jesus, growing more and more “to the Father’s glory” so that we may “bear much fruit, showing ourselves to be disciples of Jesus.”

 

February Council Meeting Highlights

The SFCOG Council gathered on Tuesday evening for the monthly meeting. Several ministry opportunities were discussed. Here are a few highlights to share with you:

• Prospective New Members were approved by the council prior to formal installation this Sunday.
• The Personnel Committee has finished revising and updating job descriptions for all current committees and leadership roles, and they have been approved by Council.
• An updated committee list was discussed and approved for 2024.
• Further updates were shared regarding Cross Roads Station financing, and usage guidelines and procedures for the new facility were discussed.
• Some upcoming special events and ministry strategies were discussed, including community outreaches, church fellowship possibilities, and appreciation opportunities.

 

Cross Roads Station Celebrations!

 

This Sunday (1/18) at 9:45, we will devote our full Sunday School hour for a time of celebration and prayer to give thanks and dedicate Cross Roads Station to the Lord’s Service! Our hope is to have as many people together as possible for this time of prayer, from both services and from all age groups. Prayer and praise will be the main focus, but we will also share some details about the project, some stories, and some financial updates. There will be time for fellowship before and after as well.

 

Families with children, we encourage you to sit together (please note, there will be no separate Children & Youth Sunday School classes so that we can all be present for this milestone). Please enter through the front doors if possible, to prevent congestion at the rear entrance and prioritize that  entryway for people with mobility difficulties (all doorways are ADA handicap accessible).

 

Outreach Opportunities

Our Outreach Committee is considering hosting a Wild Game Dinner this Spring and would like to gauge your interest. There will be sign-up sheets in the Sunday School classes and the Gathering Place where you can indicate if you would attend, and also if you would like to help with planning or maybe even provide wild game meat for the cause!

 

We are still collecting donations for the Circle of Love ministry.  They are in need of any size of these items:

• shampoo
• body wash
• conditioner
• shaving cream
• ladies' deodorant
• toothpaste (please note: NO TOOTHBRUSHES are needed at this time)

Collecting will continue through this month in a container in the vestibule of the Sanctuary, closest to Cross Roads Station.

 

Men’s Alliance Update

Men’s Alliance will be starting a more in-depth Weekly Bible Study on Monday evenings at 6:30 beginning on February 26^th in the Annex. All men are welcome to attend (even if they are not involved on Saturdays). The first series will feature the book No More Excuses: Be the Man God Made You to Be by Tony Evans. The study book can be purchased at this link: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/no-more-excuses-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005843170

 

Our Keel Tribe Men’s Alliance group has helped to launch two new tribes in our local area! Pray for these new groups now meeting in Scotland & Chambersburg, and praise the Lord for this growing ministry! All men are welcome to come on Saturdays at 7:00 behind the American Legion in Shippensburg for a work out and time of Bible Study.

 

 

Senior Ministry Highlights

• This Saturday, February 17, there will be a special brunch for Widows, Widowers, & Singles (age 50+) at 10:30 in the Annex. Come join in for some food and fellowship!

 

• The annual Good Friday Luncheon provided to Senior Citizens (60+) by the Busch Trust Fund will be taking place in the Cross Roads Station fellowship hall on March 29 at Noon. Sign-up sheets will be located in the Sunday School classes. Please Register in advance for planning purposes.

 

Prayer Update

Please keep Amy Culbertson’s family in prayer, as they are mourning the unexpected loss of Amy’s cousin, Mark Weaver, who passed away while shoveling snow this past week.

 

 

Let us live to the Glory of God the Father, bearing much fruit, and showing ourselves to be Disciples of Jesus!

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Helpful Links:

Website (shipfcog.org)

SFCOG Facebook

Online Messages (shipfcog.org)

Online Giving (shipfcog.org)

Care Groups & Sunday School Classes

 

*Weather Alerts/ Schedule Changes (shipfcog.org)*

 

Weekly Order of Worship and FYI Newsletter (updated over the weekend)

shipfcog.net/site/shipfcog/shipnews/index.html

 

 

 

 

SFCOG Cross Roads Station Prayer Service 2/18/24 at 9:45am!

You are ALL Invited to a very special time of prayer and thanksgiving!

 

 

This is so exciting that I wanted to send a special email just to be sure everyone hears the good news!

 

***Sunday, February 18th at 9:45, we will devote our full Sunday School hour for a time of celebration and prayer to give thanks and dedicate Cross Roads Station to the Lord’s Service!

 

Our hope is to have as many people together as possible for this time of prayer, from both services and from all age groups. Prayer and praise will be the main focus, but we will also share some details about the project, some stories, and some financial updates. There will be time for fellowship before and after as well.

 

I do want to apologize for the somewhat last-minute change to our usual schedule, but as the finishing touches have been completed and the desire to fully launch into using the space continues to grow, we felt it best to proceed in a rather expedient fashion to bring the whole church family together to celebrate and pray over this wonderful milestone that we have waited for a long time to see!

 

Also in March, we hope to host our first all-church fellowship meal in Cross Roads Station after our morning services. A final date is still being determined, but we can begin to look forward to gathering together as a church family to share a meal for the first time in the new Fellowship Hall very soon!

 

Praising the Lord with You All,

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Remain in Love - SFCOG Updates for 2/11

Sunday is coming!

 

 

This weekend we consider two special things that have something in common – they both require you to remain committed!

(pay attention to that word, “Remain”).

 

On Sunday we will hear an update from our Cub Scouts, and we will also be looking towards Valentine’s Day.

 

One of the most exciting parts of Scouting is earning Merit Badges! If kids remain involved in the pack, they can learn so much cool stuff and earn lots of neat merit badges. The leaders of our Cub Scout Pack make it easier for the Scouts to earn badges by offering opportunities to work on the requirements for the badges, especially If they remain connected and committed to the pack.

 

Next week, we will celebrate Valentine’s Day. This is a special day to celebrate connections with people we love.

Here’s the thing about relationships—between a husband & wife, or anyone important to you—if you want your Love to continue to grow and flourish, you have to stay connected. You must spend quality time together, share some interests, and value the same things. It’s important to remain friends.

 

The same is true about our connection to God—if we want to know God and experience his blessings and peace, if we want to truly follow Jesus into the adventures that he has for us, we have to stay connected. We must remain committed to Jesus.

 

Our theme verse for this month is John 15:4—

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

 

“Remain” - That word has a lot of meaning packed into it, as we will see throughout this new series that begins on Sunday. The King James Version uses the word “abide.” The Greek word is “menó.” It conveys the ideas of staying with, dwelling in, waiting on, or being permanently connected to and dependent upon Jesus.

We will begin by focusing on one important and timely aspect of Jesus’ message:

 

LOVE.

 

Jesus says in John 15-9-17,  “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. 17 This is my command: Love each other.”

 

Jesus showed us the full extent of God’s love for us, by laying down his life for his friends. Notice this means he calls us friends! If we give him our lives in how we live, remaining connected to Him, then God’s Love can overflow into the world around us, as we obey his command to “love each other.”

 

 

Cross Roads Station Celebrations!

 

***Next Sunday at 9:45, we will devote our full Sunday School hour for a time of celebration and prayer to give thanks and dedicate Cross Roads Station to the Lord’s Service! Our hope is to have as many people together as possible for this time of prayer, from both services and from all age groups. Prayer and praise will be the main focus, but we will also share some details about the project, some stories, and some financial updates. There will be time for fellowship before and after as well.

 

Also in March, we hope to host our first all-church fellowship meal in Cross Roads Station after our morning services. A final date is still being determined, but we can begin to look forward to gathering together as a church family to share a meal for the first time in the new Fellowship Hall very soon!

 

This Sunday

• This Sunday is Scout Sunday! Each week, we host over 60 Cub Scouts as they learn to ‘do their best to do their duty to God and country, and to help others.’ In both services, we will hear some brief updates about the scouting program, and scout families are being encouraged to attend. Let’s encourage these children and families and show them a warm welcome!

 

• Get Connected will meet this Sunday at 9:45. It will meet in Room 107 next to the Gathering Place on the first floor. Get Connected is an opportunity to learn about our Sunday School Classes, Care Groups, and other Small Groups and Ministries that are offered here at SFCOG. It’s a great way to learn more about our Church Family and how you can be involved!

 

Outreach Opportunities

Our Outreach Committee is considering hosting a Wild Game Dinner this Spring and would like to gauge your interest. There will be sign-up sheets in the Sunday School classes and the Gathering Place where you can indicate if you would attend, and also if you would like to help with planning or maybe even provide wild game meat for the cause!

 

We are still collecting donations for the Circle of Love ministry.  They are in need of any size of these items:

• shampoo
• body wash
• conditioner
• shaving cream
• ladies' deodorant
• toothpaste (please note: NO TOOTHBRUSHES are needed at this time)

Collecting will continue through this month in a container in the vestibule of the Sanctuary, closest to Cross Roads Station.

 

Circle of Love also wishes to extend a word of thanks to our congregation for giving our Christmas Eve offering to their ministry! Your generosity is helping to meet real needs here in Shippensburg.

 

Men’s Alliance Update

Our Keel Tribe Men’s Alliance group has helped to launch two new tribes in our local area! Pray for these new groups now meeting in Scotland & Chambersburg, and praise the Lord for this growing ministry! All men are welcome to come on Saturdays at 7:00 here in Shippensburg for a work out and Bible Study.

 

Men’s Alliance will also be starting a more in-depth weekly Bible Study on Monday evenings beginning on February 26^th. All men are welcome and encouraged to attend (even if they are not involved on Saturdays).

 

Senior Ministry Highlights

• We are hoping to resume the Living Stones senior ministry (for people age 50+). If you would like to be involved on a planning team for this ministry, please contact Pastor Gary ( visitation_and_discipleship@shipfcog.org ).

 

• Next Saturday, February 17, there will be a special brunch for Widows, Widowers, & Singles (age 50+) at 10:30 in the Annex. Sign-Up sheets may be found in your Sunday School classes. Come join in for some food and fellowship!

 

• The annual Good Friday Luncheon provided to Senior Citizens (60+) by the Busch Trust Fund will be taking place in the Cross Roads Station fellowship hall on March 29 at Noon. Sign-up sheets will be located in the Sunday School classes. Please Register in advance for planning purposes.

 

Children & Youth Updates

Our Children and Youth Ministries have some special events planned in the near future, including games and Easter activities for Children and their families, and a Youth Retreat at Camp YoliJwa in March. Keep these events and their leaders in your prayers, and watch for more information from our Children and Youth departments!

 

Key Notice

As part of the final steps of the Cross Roads Station renovation project, the locks on all 3 of our buildings have been updated. We’ve learned that some existing keys may still work, but some may not (the electronic fobs should all still work). Please contact the church office or talk to one of our trustees if you feel you will need an updated key. We encourage you to stop by the church office during normal office hours (M-F 9-3) prior to a time when you might need access to the building to check your old keys.

 

 

I pray that God continues to reveal to you how much He Loves You and the World as you seek to live for Him!

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Helpful Links:

Website (shipfcog.org)

SFCOG Facebook

Online Messages (shipfcog.org)

Online Giving (shipfcog.org)

Care Groups & Sunday School Classes

 

*Weather Alerts/ Schedule Changes (shipfcog.org)*

 

Weekly Order of Worship and FYI Newsletter (updated over the weekend)

shipfcog.net/site/shipfcog/shipnews/index.html

 

 

 

Please pray!

Dear Church Family,

 

Please join us in praying for Jane Chamberlin who is having surgery tomorrow morning.

 

“But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.”  Malachi 4:2

 

 For His Glory,

 

Pastor Gary

 

Pastor Gary

 

 

Gary Hornbaker

Shippensburg First Church of God

Pastor of Visitation and Discipleship

Church Phone: 717-532-8421

 

'For God so loved the World...' SFCOG updates for 2/4/24

Missions Sunday is coming!

 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

 

John 3:16 is perhaps the most well-known verse in the New Testament, but how often do we stop to consider the full context of this verse, including its implications for ourselves Personally, and the world Globally?

 

 

 

This weekend our Compelled to Serve committee will present Missions Sunday. Phil Schiavoni will be sharing an update about his ministry to College Students through Coalition for Christian Outreach, and bringing a message from the Gospel of John: “ A Fresh Look at the Most Familiar Passage”. Learn more about Phil and his Ministry here: Philip Schiavoni - CCO | Campus Ministry (ccojubilee.org)

 

There will also be a combined Sunday School hour featuring reports from missions in the Dominican Republic by the Negley family and Paige Smith.

 

Cross Roads Station Celebrations!

With the completion of the renovation project, we are planning some opportunities to dedicate this new space to the Lord’s Service! On Sunday, February 18^th, we will have an opportunity to gather in the new fellowship hall for a prayer service. More details will be shared soon, but please plan to join us in prayer on that morning!

 

Also in March, we hope to host our first all-church fellowship meal in Cross Roads Station after our morning services. A final date is still being determined, but we can begin to look forward to gathering together as a church family to share a meal for the first time in the new Fellowship Hall very soon!

 

Upcoming Events

 

• This Sunday afternoon, all are invited to go to Camp YoliJwa for their annual Winter Picnic, featuring family friendly activities starting at 3:00, a meal at 4:00, a presentation about our National Parks at 5:00, and devotions led by Pastor Rodney at 6:00. The camp is providing hot dogs, and each family is asked to bring a side dish such as salads, desserts, or snacks. You can learn more at Winter Picnic — Doubling Gap Center, Home of camp YoliJwa.

 

• Get Connected will not meet on the first Sunday of February (2/4), but it will be rescheduled for February 11. Get Connected is an opportunity to learn about our Sunday School Classes, Care Groups, and other Small Groups and Ministries that are offered here at SFCOG. It’s a great way to learn more about our Church Family and how you can be involved!

 

• Next Sunday is Scout Sunday! Each week, we host over 60 Cub Scouts as they learn to ‘do their best to do their duty to God and country, and to help others.’ In both services, we will hear some brief updates about the scouting program, and scout families are being encouraged to attend. Let’s encourage these families and show them a warm welcome!

 

• Our next Baptism service is scheduled for February 25^th. If you or someone in your family is considering this important step of faith, please sign up in the Gathering Place or respond to this email by February 18.

 

• “A Weekend to Remember” is coming to Hershey on February 9-11. This is a wonderful time to strengthen your marriage and experience a weekend away.  You can save $100 if you register as part of our Church. You can register at this link: Weekend To Remember Marriage Retreat - FamilyLife®  --When registering, we ask that you use the following code: ShippensburgFirstChurchofGod (no spaces). By using this code, the church receives a free couple registration for every five couples registered, and you receive the $100 discount. There are some free registration spots available. If you would be interested in utilizing a free registration, please let us know!

 

Senior Ministry Highlights

• We are hoping to resume the Living Stones senior ministry (for people age 50+). If you would like to be involved on a planning team for this ministry, please contact Pastor Gary ( visitation_and_discipleship@shipfcog.org ).

 

• On February 17, there will be a special brunch for Widows, Widowers, & Singles (age 50+) at 10:30 in the Annex. Come join in for some food and fellowship.

 

• The annual Good Friday Luncheon provided to Senior Citizens (60+) by the Busch Trust Fund will be taking place in the Cross Roads Station fellowship hall on March 29 at Noon. Sign-up sheets will be located in the Sunday School classes. Please Register in advance for planning purposes.

 

Outreach Collection Opportunity

We are collecting donations for the Circle of Love ministry.  They are in need of any size of these items:

• shampoo
• body wash
• conditioner
• shaving cream
• ladies' deodorant
• toothpaste (please note: NO TOOTHBRUSHES are needed at this time)

Collecting will continue through January and February in a container in the vestibule of the Sanctuary, closest to Cross Roads Station. Thank you for sharing with our community!

 

I pray that God continues to reveal to you how much He Loves You and the World as you seek to live for Him!

 

Pastor Rodney Bistline

Shippensburg First Church of God

seniorpastorbistline@shipfcog.org

 

 

Helpful Links:

Website (shipfcog.org)

SFCOG Facebook

Online Messages (shipfcog.org)

Online Giving (shipfcog.org)

Care Groups & Sunday School Classes

 

*Weather Alerts/ Schedule Changes (shipfcog.org)*

 

Weekly Order of Worship and FYI Newsletter (updated over the weekend)

shipfcog.net/site/shipfcog/shipnews/index.html