Month: October 2022

“When Jesus girded Himself with a towel to wash the dust from their feet, He desired by that very act to wash the alienation, jealousy, and pride from their hearts. This was of far more consequence than the washing of their dusty feet. With the spirit they then had, not one of them was prepared for communion with Christ. Until brought into a state of humility and love, they were not prepared to partake of the paschal supper, or to share in the memorial service which Christ was about to institute. Their hearts must be cleansed. Pride and self-seeking create dissension and hatred, but all this Jesus washed away in washing their feet. A change of feeling was brought about” ( DA 646).

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I hope many of you enjoyed the church bonfire last Sabbath night. I was so pleased to see how many of you came to fellowship with your brothers and sisters. The Bradford family led us in music and singing and John Moldovan, SAU theology student and our current extern, reminded us about the faith and courage of our Adventist pioneers. Our social committee arranged a great outdoor dinner. Thank you all for making this a very special time for our church family. Personally, I was very blessed.

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The Pathfinders are collecting non-perishable food items to help those in need during the Thanksgiving season. If you would like to donate food, please bring it to the fellowship center by October 29. Thank you!

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The Samaritan Center needs volunteers on the fifth Sabbath of the quarter with moving donated items inside the warehouse. If you are interested in helping, come to the warehouse about 30 minutes after the sunset this Sabbath. Your time and your help will be sincerely appreciated.

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Happy Sabbath!

pastor Peter

There is great joy in serving people. If you feel the need to establish your dignity and earn respect, show your humble spirit in kindness and willingness to serve. Jesus said’ “… the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28)

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Women’s ministry had a great fall event last week. Summer Bradford messaged me saying that they had a lot of fun and made over 40 quarts of homemade applesauce. It was a great way to connect. Here are a few photos from Summer:

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Nearly 1500 Pathfinders from the Georgia-Cumberland Conference attended the Southern Union Pathfinder Camporee at Camp Kulaqua in Florida. We are proud of our young people! This camporee helps Pathfinders make connections, not just with other young people but also with their Heavenly Father. Thank you, David Reynolds and your team, for your leadership in this important ministry. I am glad everyone came back safe and happy. I saw many posts on Instagram from our Pathfinder club members. Here is a quote from David: “The Pathfinders had fun in the sun as they participated in honors and activities during the Union Camporee in Florida. We had several pinewood derby cars rank high. Kids enjoyed pin trading and swimming, long lines and good food. A huge thanks to the staff and support of parents!”

Here are a few photos shared by Mike Haughee and David Reynolds:

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Two weeks ago we celebrated Anberlyn Higg’s baptism. Anberlyn is a student at OAKS. Pastor Matthew was studying with her and officiated the baptism.

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Our Cereal Barrel is running low. Julia Easter is seeking your support of this excellent community outreach opportunity.

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This Sabbath night you are invited to participate in our Fall Bonfire event. We’ll start with music and singing, followed by food and games. Bring your whole family or come on your own. It is a great place for the young and not so young … Everyone is welcome!

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Last week, nine of us, including a 5-month-old and a 3-year-old, ventured to Maine. We rented a house outside of Belfast, ME and spent a few fabulous days together. I am so blessed to have a loving family that sticks together. The weather was absolutely wonderful. We explored the nearby coastal towns, watched the fishing life at local harbors, celebrated Dasha’s birthday, climbed a mountain (including the baby), suffered from muscle pain the next day, and returned filled with unforgettable memories. Here are a few photos from our trip. (Four members of our family couldn’t join us on this vacation.)

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I feel totally humbled by the kind cards and text messages I have received showing your appreciation and support. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I do not deserve your gracious love.

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I hope you’ll have a blessed Sabbath day!

Peter

“You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Luke 12:40). Are we getting terrified when we read these words of Jesus? Should we? I am pretty sure Jesus does not want us to be nervous at the thought of His coming. He loves us and He counts us as His friends. He is getting ready to be reunited with His family (John 14:1-3). Are you?

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Last Sabbath a hundred and fifty volunteers from our church participated in a fun event. We were packing meals for the children around the world suffering from starvation or malnutrition. The whole process was well organized. I could see young children working right next to their parents and grandparents. It was truly a Sabbath day filled with good deeds. (Matthew 12:12). This event was planned and promoted by Lucas Patterson. Thank you, Lucas!

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During the first service this Sabbath we’ll celebrate Anberlyn Higgs baptism! What a joyful event for our church and for the Higgs family.

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This Sabbath everyone is invited to join our church potluck after the second service.

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Here are two big events that need to be on your calendar for this month:

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Happy Sabbath,

pastor Peter