1928 Moneta Road Bedford, VA 24523 Phone: (540) 586-8765 Dr. David Walton, Pastor Bedford Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) October 2019 From David’s Desk The other night, I got home late from an engagement, arriving at about eleven o’clock. Now, out where I live, there aren’t any street lights, so it is dark, very dark. Also, at that hour, the normal- ly busy Route 24 that runs behind my house was quiet; no cars passed by. But as I walked to the house, things were anything but quiet. Instead, from across the field in front of my house, I heard the strangest howling I’d ever heard. Long bays were punctuated by yips and yaps, squeals and barks. Though I’d never heard a pack of coyotes before, I knew exactly what I was listening to, and I was intrigued. I stopped to lis- ten, but, after a moment or two of hearing these canines of the night, I grew uncomfortable. I’m not ashamed to admit it, they sounded creepy. Therefore, I did not dilly-dally, I quickly went into the house, shut and locked the door, leaving their baying be- hind. Am I a coward? Perhaps...but on that night, I was a safe one! Fear is an interesting thing. On the one hand, it’s a natural, God-given feeling that comes over us when we’re faced with something...well...frightening. Being a person of faith doesn’t shield us from this either. In scripture, we learn, for exam- ple, the people of Israel were afraid when Pharaoh’s army chased them to the edge of the Red Sea. (Ex. 14:10) The prophet Elijah was afraid of Queen Jezebel when she threatened his life. (1 Kings 19:3) Even Jesus’ disciples were afraid, as a storm threatened to swamp their boat (Mark 4:40), when Jesus was arrested (Mark 14:50), and in the days after the crucifixion (John 20:19) Yet, despite these examples, scripture tells us over and over again not to be afraid. “Be strong and courageous” we’re told, “for the Lord is on your side.” (Joshua 1:9) Even though we “walk through the valley of the shadow of death” we needn’t fear, for God’s “rod and staff, they comfort” us. (Ps 23) And Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid” because “peace I leave with you.” (John 14:27) You know, when we look around the world today, some find there is much to fear. Everything from political turmoil to climate change, troop deployments and more will, if we’re not careful, force us behind locked doors in fear of the future. But this isn’t what God has planned for us; no indeed! We who profess Christ know God’s love is with us in life’s storms. Even more important, God also says, “I know the plans I have for you...plans for your welfare and not harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Such a blessed promise as this, coming from the word of the Lord, is surely enough to chase away any fears we may have...if we will but trust in the Lord. It is said that the phrase, “do not fear” occurs 365 times in the Bible. I don’t know if that’s true, but whether God said it once, or over three hundred times, I do know God’s promises are sure. So, when we are faced with something overwhelming, beyond understanding, or difficult to endure, may we remember the many times God assures us that we will be okay. We truly don’t need to be afraid of anything. Except, perhaps, a pack of wild coyotes at our front door. Yeah...be afraid of that! I’ll see you in Church! A Future With Hope
Transcript
1928 Moneta Road Bedford, VA 24523 Phone: (540) 586-8765 Dr. David Walton, Pastor
Bedford Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
October 2019
From David’s Desk
The other night, I got home late from an engagement, arriving at about eleven o’clock. Now, out where I live, there aren’t any street lights, so it is dark, very dark. Also, at that hour, the normal-ly busy Route 24 that runs behind my house was quiet; no cars passed by. But as I walked to the house, things were anything but quiet. Instead, from across the field in front of my house, I heard the strangest howling I’d ever heard. Long bays were punctuated by yips and yaps, squeals and barks. Though I’d never heard a pack of coyotes before, I knew exactly what I was listening to, and I was intrigued. I stopped to lis-ten, but, after a moment or two of hearing these canines of the night, I grew uncomfortable. I’m not
ashamed to admit it, they sounded creepy. Therefore, I did not dilly-dally, I quickly went into the house, shut and locked the door, leaving their baying be-hind. Am I a coward? Perhaps...but on that night, I was a safe one! Fear is an interesting thing. On the one hand, it’s a natural, God-given feeling that comes over us when we’re faced with something...well...frightening. Being a person of faith doesn’t shield us from this either. In scripture, we learn, for exam-ple, the people of Israel were afraid when Pharaoh’s army chased them to the edge of the Red Sea. (Ex. 14:10) The prophet Elijah was afraid of Queen Jezebel when she threatened his life. (1 Kings 19:3) Even Jesus’ disciples were afraid, as a storm threatened to swamp their boat (Mark 4:40), when Jesus was arrested
(Mark 14:50), and in the days after the crucifixion (John 20:19) Yet, despite these examples, scripture tells us over and over again not to be afraid. “Be strong and courageous” we’re told, “for the Lord is on your side.” (Joshua 1:9) Even though we “walk through the valley of the shadow of death” we needn’t fear, for God’s “rod and staff, they comfort” us. (Ps 23) And Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid” because “peace I leave with you.” (John 14:27) You know, when we look around the world today, some find there is much to fear. Everything from political turmoil to climate change, troop deployments and more will, if we’re not careful, force us behind locked doors in fear of the future. But this isn’t what God has planned for us; no indeed! We who profess Christ know God’s love is with us in life’s storms. Even more important, God also says, “I know the plans I have for you...plans for your welfare and not harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Such a blessed promise as this, coming from the word of the Lord, is surely enough to chase away any fears we may have...if we will but trust in the Lord. It is said that the phrase, “do not fear” occurs 365 times in the Bible. I don’t know if that’s true, but whether God said it once, or over three hundred times, I do know God’s promises are sure. So, when we are faced with something overwhelming, beyond understanding, or difficult to endure, may we remember the many times God assures us that we will be okay. We truly don’t need to be afraid of anything. Except, perhaps, a pack of wild coyotes at our front door. Yeah...be afraid of that! I’ll see you in Church!
A Future With Hope
The second art night of the year yields fun, fellowship
and beautiful artwork.
On September 22nd, BCC hosted its second Art Night; and it was a smashing success! Fifteen folks were on hand as the self-described “Crazy Paint La-dy” (aka: Renee Austin) led the group in creating a beautiful fall scene. Assisting Ms. Austin in leading the class was her talented assistant, Tracy. Under their tute-lage, participants painted a church in a forest with a nearby stream. Some indicated that the painting was a challenge, but the results were beautiful! In addition to their painting, also in BCC fashion, all enjoyed food, fun
and fellowship. A very special thanks is extended to all who brought in delicious treats for all to share. What a fun-filled evening! Thank you to all who came out to paint with the “Crazy Paint Lady!” Submitted by Walt Rivers, Membership Chair and event sponsor.
October has long been set aside to honor the clergy. Here at BCC we are so blessed to have Dr. David Walton, Jr. as our Senior Minister, and Rev. Jim Compton as our Parish Life Minis-ter. Through out the month during wor-ship, various indi-viduals will be sharing testimonials and on Sun-day, October 13th we will cele-brate Pastor Appreciation Day. All BCC’ers are encouraged to show
Art Night at BCC: A Good Time Was Had by All
Above: Rushie Wooldridge shows off a completed painting. At left: Class participants earnestly follow instructions as leader, Renee Austin and her assistant give them painting pointers.
Yard Sale Announced
On Saturday, October 5th from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, if you’re a picker, antiquer, or junker, BCC is the place to be because, WE’RE HAVING A YARD SALE! The
October is Pastor Appreciation Month
their appreciation and support by sending cards of gratitude and words of encouragement to our pastors. Long ago, the Apostle Paul wrote to the Thessalonians saying, “respect those who labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord. Esteem them highly in love because of their work.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) Here at BCC, we are grateful for Pastor David and Pastor Jim. Thank you for all you do, Pastor David and Pastor Jim!
sale will be at the Helen Quarles Memorial Building off of Wells Road. Y’all come as there is something for everyone; household items, tools, toys, clothes, furniture, jew-elry, Christmas items and more! And the prices can’t be beat! You’ll be able to fill a bag for $2 and a box for $5. Wow! Also, if you’ve got stuff to sell, tables are available at the church for a dona-tion to the church. Proceeds from the Yard Sale will benefit the work of the CWF.
October 2019
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
CMF/CWF 6:00 PM
2 Choir 7:00 PM
3
Bible study 10:30 AM
4 5 Yard Sale
8 AM- 1 PM
6 Sunday School
9:30 AM Worship
10:45 AM Regional
Minister visits
7
Hospice
8
9 Choir 7:00 PM
10
Bible study 10:30 AM
11 12
13 Sunday School
9:30 AM Worship
10:45 AM WTB rehearsal
4 - 6 PM
14
Columbus Day
15 16 Choir 7:00 PM
17
Bible study 10:30 AM
18
19 Apple Festival Gross’ Orchard
9 AM
20 Sunday School
9:30 AM Worship
10:45 AM WTB rehearsal
4 - 6 PM
21
22 23 Choir 7:00 PM
24 Bible study 10:30 AM Newsletter deadline
10:30 AM
25
26
27
3 PM
28
29
30 Choir 7:00 PM
31
Halloween
**Please join us for our regular Sunday activities including Sunday School at 9:30AM and Worship at 10:45AM
Elders: Barbara Helms, Dave O’Hara, John Goding (alt.)
Serving in Home: Susan Epperly, Nancy McCoy, Brian Powers (alt.)
Diaconates: Malinda Rivers (6), Henry Love (13), Teresa Love (20), Ruth Fuller (27), Kathy Sharrett (alt.)
The Fellowship/Hospitality Com-mittee is requesting donations of juice boxes and small bottles of water for our Fall Family Festival on October 27th. Please bring these items to the church’s kitch-en and have them marked “Fall Festival”. Thank you in advance for your support.
In other news, we are having a Potluck Luncheon immedi-ately following morning worship service on October 6th to welcome our
new Regional Minister, Rev. Bill Spangler-Dunning who will be
Plans are underway for this year’s annual Fall Family Festival. Last year hundreds turned out for hay rides, trunk or treat, a punkin’ hunt, games, hot dogs and other goodies. This year we’re planning for an even larger event. Scheduled for Sunday, October 27th at 3:00 PM, the Fall Family Festival will have a big tent for music and a picnic area for diners. In addition, planning is underway for a
NEWS FROM AROUND THE CHURCH Plan To Attend the Fall Family Festival
s’mores station, a petting zoo, and door prizes. If you would like to help out, we are in need of folks who will deco-rate their cars and participate in the trunk or treat. Also, as last year, we are in need of pumpkin donations for the pumpkin patch. Donations can be brought to the church begin-ning the week before the event. Volunteer Rally To Be Held On Sunday, October 20th after church, all those participating in
Fellowship/Hospitality Committee
Continuing a long tradition, this year the BCC Christian Men’s Fel-lowship will be selling hot dogs and refreshments at the Gross’ Or-chard Festival on October 19th. This day long festival includes music, food, a petting zoo and, of course, Apple Fritters, Apple Pies, Apple Butter...you name it! Our men (and ladies too) work the event as a fundraiser for the CMF for the various projects they do throughout the year. To cut down on costs, they are seeking dona-tions of canned drinks to sell. Your donations are most appreci-
CMF to Work Gross’ Apple Festival
Walk Through Bethlehem
visiting with us that day. Please bring a covered dish of your choice. The Fellowship/Hospitality Com-mittee will supply the drinks. Hope to see you there! Submitted by Dana Manias, Hospitality Co-Chair
The Walk Through Bethlehem has been rescheduled for December 14-15. For all involved, scripts will be distributed on October 6th with re-hearsals beginning the following Sunday. We are also seeking ven-dors to sell small, inexpensive hand-made crafts. Contact Pastor David or Connie Powers for information. Please be in prayer for this event.
Right: Last year’s Trunk or Treat was very popular with the kids!
the festival are invited to a Volun-teer Rally. The purpose is for us to get together, pray together and get organized for the big day! Finally, all BCC’ers are asked to pray and be present to make sure this year’s Fall Family Festival is the BEST ever.
all, even in our brokenness, to cre-ate beauty in the world. Stewardship letters and pledge cards will be mailed to BCC mem-bers and friends on October 9th. When you receive yours, please prayerfully commit to sacrificially support the ministries of the church. Thank you!
Please Be In Prayer For...
Our Home Bound Members
Eileen Miller 931 Ashland Ave., Rm 111 Bedford, VA 24523
Jean Patterson 30 Monica Blvd., Rm. 209 Lynchburg, VA 24502
Alice Mahone 1437 Belmont Dr. Bedford, VA 24523
Frances Cox 203 Palomino Ln. Bedford, VA 24523
Our Church’s Committee Chairs and Members (Those who volunteer their time to provide leadership need our thoughts, prayers and expressions of encouragement.)
Worship: Connie Powers - Chair, Bailey O’Hara, Barbara Powers, Lillie Coleman, Carol Toms, Karen Cox Hospitality/Fellowship: Dana Manias, Theresa Wood - Co-Chairs, Tina O’Hara, Shauna Saunders, Teresa Love, Rushie Wooldridge Outreach: Susan Epperly - Chair, Robert Pawlas, Tina O’Hara Membership: Walt Rivers - Chair, Malinda Rivers, Dave O’Hara, Rushie Wooldridge Staff Relations: Ed McCoy - Chair, Carlisle Davenport, Larry Wood, Connie Powers, Brian Powers, Susan Epperly Stewardship: Barbara Helms - Chair, Randi Herrick (Treasurer), Carolyn Davenport (Assistant Treasurer), Lillie Coleman (Financial Secretary), Connie Powers (Asst. Financial Secretary), Carlisle Davenport (Trustee) Christian Education: Brian Powers - Chair, Robert Pawlas, Larry Wood Property: Larry Wood - Chair, Charles Taylor, Ronnie Blevins, Ethan Walton, Robert Pawlas, Lynn Orange, Shauna Saunders, Ed McCoy, Henry Love, Johnny Powers, Walt Rivers
Rhonda Cheek (Nancy Compton’s daughter), Edie Martin (former BCC Secretary), Kay Wheeler Cubala, Nina Zaryczny (Joey’s daughter), Rev. E.C. Redmond, Kimberly Farthing (daughter of Charles and Jane Taylor), Frances Cox, Harold Morris, Vicky Motley, Carolyn Deeter, Alice Mahone, Scott Bridges (Stuart Saunders’ brother-in-law), N.A. Boone, Jr. (Kristie Witt’s uncle), Judy Sacco, John Fellows (Jacqueline Hull’s brother), Robert Clark, Sr., Catherine Nance (friend of Kristie Witt), Thomas Witt (Conner Witt’s grandfather), Florine Bernard, Shelly Sigmon and family
Rev. E.C. Redmond 931 Ashland Ave. B102 Bedford, VA 24523
Florine Bernard 1219 Hampton Ridge Bedford, VA 24523
Carolyn Deeter 1919 Forest Rd. Bedford, VA 24523
Thomas Scott 1501 Edley Pl. Lynchburg, VA 24502
Those On Our Prayer List
Feel free to send a note of encour-agement and goodwill. Please let the church know of any updates. Thank you!
Each year, the Stewardship Committee calls us to be faithful in giving of our time, talent and finances. This is especially im-portant as we look to fully fund the church’s budget for the upcoming year. This year’s Stewardship Theme is “Lord Use Us: In the Spirit of Love.” Beginning on Sunday, October 20th and continuing for the next four Sundays, Pastor Da-vid will be teaching messages from both the Old and New Tes-taments about how God uses us
October Will See a Focus on Stewardship Notes of Thanks
“Thank you so much for the many cards and calls of good wishes and prayers this past five weeks….since the surgery last week, the light is beginning to shine at the end of the tunnel!” Rosemary C. Pawlas
Bedford Awakening
A very special thanks is extended to all of those who worked with and attended the Bedford Awakening Revival services. The movement of the Holy Spirit was palpable and lives were changed. Moving forward, let us continue to pray for renewal in our lives.
Stewardship 2019
BEDFORD CHRISTIAN CHURCH (Disciples of Christ) 1928 Moneta Road Bedford, VA 24523
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
October Birthdays
Debra Webb 3 Tamara Davenport 10 Tina O’Hara 11 Craig Coleman 14 John Mitchell 15 Liam Sigmon 16 Kristie Witt 20 Bailey O’Hara 26 Henry Love 27 Mary Boardwine 30
November Birthdays
Chris Sharrett 1 Gerald Dooley 2 John Barrett 5 Bill Sharrett 5 Teresa Love 6
October Anniversaries
John & Joanne Goding 1 Walt & Malinda Rivers 16 Brian & Jennifer Powers 19 Henry & Teresa Love 26
November Anniversaries
Paul Sr. & Lee Orange 2
If you haven’t done so, check out our church’s Facebook page @ Bedford Christian Church. Make sure you “like” it and start following it for all of our latest updates. You can also check our church’s website at www.bedforddisciples.org.
