First Word
First Baptist Church Naples
July 25 & 26, 2009
Sunday, August 9 Night of Praise 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel
This special night of praise will feature our Worship Choir and Orchestra. Invite a friend and join us for this special night of worship as we present our favorite songs from this past season.
Dedication of the New Athletic Field 7:30 p.m. 4HG -- For His Glory!
After the special Night of Praise, join us over on the brand new athletic field as we have a special time of dedication 4HG!
Short-Term Missions with Long-Term Fruit This very week is a time when three different mission teams are away sharing the gospel and serving the Lord. Carol Shelford, Diana Vanderhoff, and Julie & Taylor Baumgardner have been ministering to orphans and teaching English in the Dominican Republic. Carol has been there many times. Our college and early twenties Bible & Life Group ministry is on a mission trip in eastern Kentucky in the Appalachians doing backyard Bible clubs. Fifteen young adults and leaders are in Lynch in a poverty-stricken area. Lonniet and Belinda Reilly, Southern Baptist missionaries, have seen over 1500 decisions there. Our group will stay at their “Solomon’s Porch” doing various ministries, including construction of a youth camp. Terry and Angie Burken are some of our Great Commission Connection missionaries and have “Club 180,” which ministers to youth and children. My wife, Janet, Shannon Moore, and Jim Powers are leaving this weekend for Kaduna, Nigeria. This is a city of 1.5 million, half of whom are Muslim. Janet and Shannon will be teaching in their annual Pastors’ Wives Conference and expect at least 800 pastor’s wives to attend. This is a first for that area. They can help their husbands to reach the 50 million unsaved in that region. Janet will be teaching from the theme “Higher Ground” from Colossians 3:1-4, while Shannon will teach from the book of Esther. We are praying for God to open doors of ministry for Jim and count on his missions experience, strength, and wisdom. There is a huge undercurrent of unrest in that part of the world, and we are trusting the Lord for their safety and for long-term fruit and results. I praise the Lord for how He has sustained Janet in doing the same ministry in India and now here even though she has had a condition of heart trouble. Pray for these teams and the many others who will go out from our church as a part of the Great Commission, including a team from Les Dickson’s class in August as they do backyard Bible clubs among the needy mountain folks in the Branson, Missouri area.
Guest Reception
There is a guest reception in the Commons immediately following the Saturday night and Sunday morning worship services. Come and meet Dr. Wicker.
Living Christmas Trees Drama Auditions Drama auditions for the 2009 Living Christmas Trees are coming in August. You may pick up your packet beginning this weekend in the Commons. For more details, please call the music office at 596-8600 x229.
Benevolence Fund Your Benevolence Fund is at work as a helping hand to those in financial crisis.
“For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you took care of Me...Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, thirsty and give You something to drink?’ And the King will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me’.” Matthew 25:35-37 and 40 The Benevolence Fund is a helps ministry of First Baptist Church Naples providing funds to those in financial crisis (such as loss of a job) where the church may help with such things as electric bills, food, or rent to keep someone from going homeless. We mainly help church members, but also help those that walk in our door needing assistance. Funds come from donations that you, the church, give designated to the Benevolence Fund. This is then distributed through the Benevolence Committee made up of 8 members and a staff person. Over the past twelve months, we have helped people in need with a total of $69,112.89. Credits received amount to $45,288.38. We are currently experiencing an increased demand for help as many members have lost their jobs as a result of construction industry cut-backs. As a result, we are getting close to being out of funds. You can help by making a one-time gift to First Baptist Church Naples and noting “BN” in the memo area of your check. Would you also consider making a regular gift to the Benevolence Fund each time we have communion? If you have any questions, you may call Pastor Roy Fisher at 596-8600 x265 or ask any of our Benevolence Committee members: Bill Smith, Fred Klaucke, Kerry Rard, Keith Langham, Howard Williams, Carol Shelford, Lorita Pardue, or Linda Williamson.
Experiencing
GOD
Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Worship Center, Men’s Ministry and Women’s Ministry meet together around tables organized by Bible and Life Group. Workbooks are on sale in the Lighthouse Bookstore.
Janet’s Summer Reading Club Ladies, once again this year, join us for a precious time of book discussion with our Senior Pastor’s wife, Janet Wicker. This year promises to be even more exciting and rewarding than last year. All books are available in our bookstore. Light refreshments will be served at all meetings.
August 25 at 7:00 p.m. in the Commons
“Five Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter” by Vicki Courtney
This brand-new book has been selected to help moms who are desperately trying to talk with their daughters about sensitive issues in a godly way. It will cause you to focus on helping your daughters understand that they are more than what people see on the outside and they do not need to grow up so fast. You will learn how to dare your daughter to be virtuous. Janet is happy to announce that Karen Head will be joining her for the last session of our Reading Club on August 25. We have added the book “Your Boy: Raising a Godly Son in an Ungodly World” also by Vicki Courtney. This book will do for moms of boys what the other book “Five Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter” will accomplish for moms of girls. Because both their needs are unique, we will discuss these books in separate groups that night. As you parent and guide a young boy to become a young godly man, this additional book will encourage you, challenge you, and help your son avoid the pitfalls of cultural pressures. See the Lighthouse Bookstore to purchase this book, and add it to your summer reading schedule.
Lighthouse Cafe Don’t forget some of our regular summer favorites Ice-spressos (regular or light), Edy’s ice cream, Smoothies, Lattes, Cappuccinos, Espressos, etc.
Lighthouse Bookstore
Need that special gift but short on cash? Our entire stock is on sale for 10%-30% off! Stop by today and save!
Important Announcements Worshipful Atmosphere
It is our desire that Jesus be the focus in our worship services. Therefore, in consideration of others desiring to worship with limited distraction, we ask each person to do the following: - Please turn your cell phone off or set to vibrate. - Please remain in the worship center (except in the case of emergency) once you have entered to worship. - Should your child become unsettled or noisy during the worship service, please take your little one to the Fellowship Hallway or preschool ministry area in the Education Building where you can comfortably watch the service on a television monitor. Thank you for helping us maintain a worshipful atmosphere for everyone!
Invest Your Life
Invest your life in something that will outlive you! Teachers and assistants are needed to serve with young children starting the end of August on Wednesday nights, Saturday nights, and Sunday mornings. You will have fun and make a difference in the lives of children and their families. For more information, please call Beverly in the Preschool Office at 596-8600 x351.
New Arrivals
Marshall Thomas Smith was born July 14, 2009 to Brad and Laurie Smith. Marshall weighed 7 pounds and 5 ounces, and measured 21 inches long. Big brothers are Mitchell, Matthew, Michael, and Mason. Emmett Thomas Jansen was born July 20, 2009 to Matt and Sarah Jansen. Emmett weighed 7 pounds and 9 ounces, and measured 20 inches long. Big brother is Deacon.
Couples Wanted
Looking for a fulfilling ministry to share with your spouse or soon-tobe spouse? When husbands and wives serve together in the Preschool Ministry, the benefits to them and to the children they serve are amazing! Just ask Buddy & Gail Smith, Dean & Shenna Burdette, Rob & Sandra White, Ron & Becky Langford, Carmen & Luis Rodriguez, Bob & Dottie Plamondon, Ron & Millie Lee, Gary & Jane Bueltel, and Jim & Kristy Breuler...just to mention a few. These couples teach preschoolers and love it! Join us in impacting the church of the next generation, today! For more information, please call Beverly at 596-8600 x351. Training and support provided.
Family Death
If an immediate family member passes away, please call Vada at 596-8600 x268 and give her the information. This information will then be placed in First Word the following weekend.
60th Wedding Anniversary
Bob & Ellie Hardman celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 23, 2009. Congratulations Bob & Ellie!
Online Giving is Available
Online giving is available on the First Baptist Church website at www.fbcn.org. On the home page, click on “Giving” and follow the instructions to make contributions to FBCN and FBA. The Finance Office will be glad to assist you at 596-8600 x255 for Carmen (FBCN) and x256 for Cindy (FBA).
Celebrating a 50th, 60th, or 70th Anniversary?
Please call Vada at 596-8600 x268 to give her the date of your 50th, 60th, or 70th wedding anniversary to be announced in First Word.
Personal Contact Information Update
Has your email address changed recently? Have you just moved? Did you change jobs or cell phone numbers? We would like to update our records. Please send personal contact updates to
[email protected] or call 596-8600 x463.
Planning on Getting Married?
The Marriage Savers program will help you have a healthy marriage and will enhance your relationship. It is a requirement here at FBCN and involves a premarital inventory and a mentor couple who will meet with you for six sessions. Please contact Pastor Roy Fisher at 596-8600 x265 for an appointment.
Parents of Preschoolers
The weekend of August 29 and 30 will be “Promotion Weekend” when your child will move up to their new class for the 2009-2010 school year.
Parents of Kindergartners
On Saturday and Sunday, September 12 & 13, we will be hosting a “Kindergarten Bible Presentation” event for your child. Dr. Wicker and Miss Beverly will present each child with their own NIV Discoverer’s Bible during both worship services. Please make your reservation no later than September 2nd by calling the Preschool Office at 596-8600 x360.
Christmas in July
Operation Christmas Child is already accepting items for the shoe boxes that go to needy children throughout the world. Please take advantage of the summer sales and start shopping for toys, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, washcloths, school supplies, t-shirts, socks, underwear, and sandwich size baggies. If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, please call Jody at 591-1895.
First Baptist Church Naples Garden Club
The purpose of the Garden Club is to glorify God by beautifying our church campus, thereby ministering to our church family and to the Naples community. Garden Club meetings are for anyone interested in learning to garden in our SW Florida climate, and everyone experienced in garden planning and maintenance. Our next meeting is Sunday, August 9 at 12:30 p.m. in the Commons (1st floor by the lobby stair case). We will accept new ideas, donations to purchase flowers, and schedule volunteers for watering our container gardens. Refreshments will be served.
FBCN Employment Positions Available
First Baptist Church Naples is currently accepting applications for a Manager of the Lighthouse Bookstore. Qualifications for this position include retail experience in point of sale knowledge and strong computer skills. Multi-tasking and people skills are required. Qualified candidates for this position may go online to www.fbcn.org to retrieve an application to print, complete, sign, and forward to the Human Resources office. Applications are also available at the church office Monday-Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Homebound Ministry
We are thankful to the Lord for those who visit and minister to our homebound people, week by week, month by month. We refer to our members as “C.I.A.” (Christians in Action). This is a vital ministry. One day, we may be in that same situation and it means so much to those who are visited that FBCN lovingly cares for them. Should you have an interest in this ministry, please contact Pastor Roy Fisher at 596-8600 x265 for more information.
Blood Drive
Our next blood drive will be Wednesday, August 5 in the FBCN parking lot. The times are from 1:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. For more information, or to set up a specific time to give blood, please call Karen at 513-7665.
Holding on to H.O.P.E.
(Helping Others through Pregnancy Encouragement) This new ministry offers Christ-centered support and encouragement to married women who are struggling with the pain of infertility challenges, including primary and secondary infertility, pregnancy loss, early infant death, and adoption loss. This group of women will meet monthly for a time of prayer, discussion, and encouragement from God’s Word and other Christian supplemental materials. If you find yourself in need of H.O.P.E., please join us on Thursday, August 13 in the Discipleship Center, Room DC108 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Sue Gonzalez at
[email protected] or call the Women’s Ministry office at 596-8600 x241.
Christian Business Owners and Professionals
Have you seen the online business directory for church members’ businesses and professions? Go to www.cbopnaples.com to join and/or to look for Christian businessmen and women you can contact for needed goods and services. We have plumbers, accountants, realtors, cleaning services, doctors, photographers, insurance agents, general contractors, handyman services, tile contractors, air conditioning contractors, landscapers, and a whole lot more! And it is expanding everyday!
5th Annual C2 (College & 20’s) Retreat
Come join us on July 31 at 6:30 p.m. through August 1 at noon in the Student Center and learn some practical ways to apply God’s teachings as you head off to college or the workforce. We will also have lots of fun, food, fellowship, and play laser battle. For more information, please call Steve Hayes at 596-8600 x266 or Terry Cole at 572-3316. Cost is $10.00.
Upcoming Events Saturday, July 25 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Worship Service/Worship Center KidzTown Children’s Worship/DC120 Hispanic Worship Service/Chapel Bible and Life Groups/Various Rooms on Campus
Sunday, July 26
8:15 a.m. Bible and Life Group for 60+/DC107 9:30 a.m. Worship Service/Worship Center 9:30 a.m. KidzTown Children’s Worship/DC120 10:00 a.m. Romanian Bible Study and Worship/Modulars 3 & 4 10:00 a.m. Vietnamese Bible Study and Worship/DC220 11:00 a.m. Bible and Life Groups for All Ages/Various Rooms on Campus 12:30 p.m. Hispanic Worship Service/Student Center 5:00 p.m. Romanian Baptist Mission/Modulars 3 & 4
Monday, July 27
7:00 p.m. Men’s Open Basketball/Gym
Tuesday, July 28
7:00 p.m. The Vine College & Career Service/Student Center
Wednesday, July 29
4:45 p.m. Wednesday Night Family Meal/Gym 6:20 p.m. Wacky Wednesdays Children’s Ministry/DC120 6:30 p.m. Combined Men’s & Women’s Ministries “Experiencing God”/WC 6:30 p.m. Middle School Ministry/Gym 6:30 p.m. High School Ministry/Student Center 6:30 p.m. Worship Choir Rehearsal/Choir Room 7:00 p.m. Hispanic Bible Study/Modulars 2, 3, and 4 8:00 p.m. Worship Orchestra Rehearsal/Worship Center
Thursday, July 30
6:00 p.m. Celebrate Recovery/Student Center
Friday, July 31
6:30 p.m. College & Career Retreat/Student Center
Beach Baptisms
Theresa Amato Samantha Bruntjen Larry Gould Brett Hansen Matthew Heuerman Michael Heuerman Jeff Heuerman Paul Heuerman
Vilma Kovar Justin Kovar Michael Kovar Amanda Lines Emily Lines Tina McIver Lindsey Paul Eduardo Ramos Nancy Trieu
Last Weekend Decisions For Christ Profession of Faith Adam Amor
Baptisms See Previous Page for List
Worship Attendance July 18 & 19
Membership by Letter Debra Gould Bradd Konert, Jr.
Saturday Night Total Sunday Morning Total
995 1,500 2,495
Bible & Life Attendance
Financial Stewardship 2008-2009 Operating Revenues July 1, 2009 - July 19, 2009 Budget Actual Variance $358,330 $334,964 -$23,366
July 18 & 19
Saturday Night Sunday 8:15 a.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m. Home Groups
Total
742 15 756 103
1,616
Next Week Deacon of the Week July 27 - August 2
Roger Sparling & Jeremy Rearden
If you need assistance, please call the church deacon hotline at 800-732-9573. For Spanish, call 601-6051.
Dr. Wicker on the Radio You can hear Dr. Wicker every day at 1:00 p.m. on 91.5 Kingdom FM WJYO. Dr. Wicker is also on WSOR 90.9 FM at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday evenings, and on Praise FM 89.5 at 1:30 p.m. Sunday afternoons.
Wednesday Family Meal Meat Loaf, Mashed Potatoes, Vegetable, Garden Salad, and a Dessert Advance tickets may be purchased in the Lighthouse Cafe at any time for $4.50, or $18 for a family of 5 or more. At the door it is $5.50 each, or $22 for a family. The alternate meal is a choice of pizza or hamburger.
Bookstore Hours Monday Tuesday & Thursday Wednesday Friday Saturday Sunday
Closed 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Closed 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Cafe’s Summer Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Wednesday Friday Saturday Sunday
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m./4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Closed 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Sermon Notes
Did you miss last weekend’s worship service and wish you had some way to view it? Are you seasonal and wish you could be part of our worship services while you are up north? You are just one click away from being able to watch all of our previous worship services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s easy! Just go to...
www.fbcntv.com
and then simply click on the worship service you wish to watch (either the previous Saturday night or Sunday morning). If you prefer to watch one from previous weeks, just go to the tab on the left column that says "past services" and then click the service you wish to view. It’s that simple!
Pastoral Staff Dr. Hayes Wicker....................................................................................................... Senior Pastor Miguel Cruz.....................................................................................Hispanic Congregation Pastor Greg Davidson....................................................... ......Associate Pastor/Evangelism & Discipleship Beverly Day................................................................................... Director of Preschool Ministry Nathan Dooley.......................................................................Associate Pastor/High School Ministry Dr. Roy Fisher................................................................................ Associate Pastor/Pastoral Care Nathan Gaddis....................................................................................................Worship Associate Steve Hayes....................................................................... Associate Pastor/Single Adult Ministry Forrest Head...............................................................................................Senior Associate Pastor Jim Hill........................................................................ Director of Single Parent Family Ministry Lewis Howard......................................................................................Associate Pastor/Education Shannon Moore............................................................................... Director of Women’s Ministry Doug Pigg...................................................................Associate Pastor of Church Administration Tom Rider..........................................................................Associate Pastor/School Administrator Larry Rigley......................................................................... Associate Pastor/Children’s Ministry Dr. Todd F. Stearns................................................................Associate Pastor/Worship and Music Kevin Van Duser........................................................... Associate Pastor/Middle School Ministry
Church Office 3000 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples, FL 34109 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Church Receptionist.......................................................................................................... 597-6057 Enter ext. # for direct connection...................................................................................... 596-8600 Lighthouse Bookstore....................................................................................................... 449-4488 First Baptist Academy Naples.......................................................................................... 597-2233 24-Hour Prayer Line........................................................................................... 597-PRAY (7729) Church Email........................................................................................................
[email protected] Church Website..........................................................................................................www.fbcn.org