May 2006 Scroll

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2006 SPORTSMAN’S BANQUET

From The Desk of Pastor Matthews . . .

Hightower Highlights . . .

YOUTH NEWS

What’s New in Our Library

HEART SISTER BRUNCH

The Burnett’s Christmas Breakfast

LADIES’ BANQUET

SWEETHEART BANQUET

APPRECIATION 

Christian Animal Life

2006 SPORTSMAN’S BANQUET by Molly Barrow

Saturday night in the gym, March 4th, marked another blessed time had by all walks of Christian sportsmen and hunters!  They were reminded once again of the joy that’s experienced while being out in God’s magnificent outdoors.  Around 135 men and 2 ladies (grampaws, paw-paws, daddies, young men, young boys, and wee boys) enjoyed the awesome treat and good ol’time listening to Steve Chapman’s pickin’ and grinnin’.  A deer hunter extraordinaire, Steve had everyone laughing out loud at his hilarious joke telling, funny skits, and storytelling.  He was also tugging at our hearts and tear ducts through his beautiful guitar strumming, melodious singing, and beautiful life testimony. My husband, Ralph, and our son, Christian, noticed lots of visitors—some from previous banquets and lots of new folks.  Some of the many, many really, really nice door prizes, (to name just a few), was a single barrel shotgun (won by Morris Elam), a cool fold-up hiking staff (won by Eric Morrison), a basketball (won by Charles Logan Shoaf), and a nice hatchet Christian won! Nick Matthews and Adam Byerly displayed their musical talent on stage performing the Turkey Song.  Mounted game trophies were some awesome; striped and large mouth bass (Shane McCullough and Russ Gobble), coyote, fox (Todd Wallace & Eric Morrison) and European mounts, bear, moose, and elk antlers (Tim Temple), etc., etc.  Greg Mize was gracious enough to bring for display some mounts belonging to his father, Vann Mize, very beautiful trophy mounts!  (I apologize in advance to the rest of you guys who brought mounts, I failed to mention—can’t remember who you are, sorry bout that).  (Women!)  And for the best part, scrumptious food varied on the “wild side” from quail, crappie, stripers, venison, and wild boar, etc., etc.—-to the “not so wild” local BBQ, potato salad, green beans, slaw, desserts, etc., etc. The gym Decorating staff was Ralph Barrow, Christian, (and me), Roger Comer, Eric Morrison, Vance Milton, Tim and Adam Byerly, and our illustrious Chip Norris. Thank you Adam, for climbing like a monkey up the basketball goals to tie off all the foliage and live trees that adorned the back wall.  Most of the "real men" (ha-ha) stayed after words to assist in the cleanup.  Huge thanks again go to Roger Comer, Dwight Brodar, Ralphie Barrow, and Chip Norris.  I enjoyed manyning Steve's sales table and getting familiar with all his (and his family's) many CDs, videos, and books.  His wife, Annie, of thirteen years (and mother of two grown children, Nathan and Heidi) was unable to come.  An accomplished recording artist and author in her own right, they have had family life as the theme of their lyrics since they began singing together in 1980.  As Dove award winning artists, their schedule sends them to over 100 cities a year to present a concert that features songs from over fifteen recorded projects.

From The Desk of Pastor Matthews . . .by Frankie Matthews

As you know, recently we have had a growing number of new members. (reference the listing in the new members section)

Edith brought me a “Census Report” from our computer membership program which was very interesting.

I have listed only one section of the many breakdowns from that report which shows the makeup of our church. 

 Age                       All names in Database        Percentage

Breakdown                     Totals                           Total

0-5                                     38                             5%

6-10                                   43                             6%

11-15                                 43                             7%

16-20                                 32                             5%

21-25                                 27                             4%

26-30                                 31                             5%

31-35                                 43                             7%

36-40                                 33                             5%

41-45                                 25                             4%

46-50                                 27                             4%

51-55                                 33                             5%

56-60                                 34                             5%

61-65                                 30                             5%

66-70                                 19                             3%

71+                                     109                         19%

567

I suppose that many inferences can be gained by the above data, the fact that we have a “balanced” congregation, that we have a large population of those 70+ years young. I guess what I noticed first is that we have well over 200 members who are habitually absent from the Sunday services. If we had 75% of our members present our attendance would be over 425 each Sunday. If we broke that number down into two worship services that would be 212.5 per service. (I wonder who the .5 would be?) We could easily accommodate those numbers in our current seating and parking. Summer vacation time is approaching, which every Pastor is aware means lower attendance. (I agree that everyone needs a vacation, including the Pastor.) Do you remember what we taught during our stewardship emphasis? What is required in a good steward? Faithfulness! Let me do two things with the space I have. First, let me encourage you to be faithful in your church attendance. Not just so that we have numbers (although numbers represent people). Not just so that our attendance records look good, but because faithfulness in church attendance reflects faithfulness as a steward of our God given time and hopefully personal growth and maturity. Not just time growing old but growing up (spiritually). Second, let me encourage you to call your friends and fellow members and encourage them to be in church on Sunday. Who knows, it might just be that call and your encouragement that your “brother” needs to be in church on Sunday! The Bible admonishes us to love and encourage one another not for numbers sake but for Christ sake!

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Hightower Highlights by Dan Hightower

What a blessing to serve the Lord. Everyday when I get up I never know what I will be doing that day. I can have the most well laid out plans for the day and a to-do list a mile long but when you work with kids you have to be ready to be flexible. I spent many hours planning all the details of the Jog-a Thon. I’d been watching the weather everyday and the rain was to be gone. So I didn’t have a back up plan for rain. I got up on jog-a-thon morning and heard the rain. In a quick teachers meeting we regrouped and pulled off a jog-a-thon in the gym, FLEXIBILITY, and a great group of teachers. That’s what we have here at Sheets. May 8-12 is teacher appreciation week here at SMCS. If you have time write the teachers a note and let them know that Sheets Memorial Baptist Church appreciates all they do.

 I received a note from an alumni and former Sheets Memorial member last week. “Those four years at Sheets (9^th-12^th) were the most important years of my life. They shaped who I am today… I am thankful for Mr. Williamson making me get down on my knees to pray and for him making us pray for our future soul mates in life. I pass that on to my kids at school (she's an elem. school teacher in the county) and I will to my daughter as well. I am thankful for “Senora Shoal” and her Espanola, because I have a student who speaks no English this year. I’m thankful for Mr. Goodrich -period-HE’S FANTASTIC! There are too many examples to name…”

What a blessing to serve the Lord here at Sheets Memorial. The missions emphasis, the school ministry, the youth ministry, the ladies ministry, Sunday school ministry and the teaching of God’s word from the pulpit to every walk of the ministry-what will God be able to do through this ministry- What will God be able to do through you here at Sheets.

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YOUTH NEWS by Ethan Woodward

At some churches youth pastors constantly bemoan the fact that they feel separated from what goes on in the main body of the church. A lack of interest from the overall church body in what the youth do as well as a perceived disconnection is a very common frustration for many youth pastors. Youth pastors regularly express sentiments similar to one youth pastor who, when referring to the church body, said “They are not real interested in the youth and do not really care what I do as long as I keep them busy and prevent them from causing trouble around the church.” If not addressed, this sentiment can quickly cultivate an “us against them” attitude - an attitude that most would recognize as hazardous and unhealthy.

Thankfully, the opposite is clearly true here at Sheets Memorial. Although this was apparent long before the past few months, the way the church wholly supported the youth in their mission’s trip only confirmed what was evident before. Many of you gave above and beyond by buying a ticket to a fundraising meal, donating to the garage sale, or giving directly to one of the youth. This generosity enabled several young people to participate in a mission’s trip that God may use to radically change a life. This high level of involvement sends a vitally clear message to our young people: You are part of our church and we will support you. Not only that, but many of you frequently offer to help in one way or another: bringing in baked goodies, donating supplies, helping out at a youth activity. Often, offerings like these come from people with no direct familial connection with the youth group and once again, this shows everybody that you consider the youth to be an important part of Sheets Memorial Baptist Church. For some, this may seem like a 2 plus 2 question but as was afore mentioned, sadly many churches do not consider their youth in this light.

In any church, a “separate church” mentality is something that must be guarded against at all costs, whether it be small group Sunday School classes, ladies bible studies, or youth groups. ENDZONE Youth Ministries is not an independent ministry operating as its own little church. ENDZONE Youth Ministries is just one of the many ministries of Sheets Memorial Baptist Church and therefore will continually strive to be involved in the many varied aspects of church life. Thank you for your support of the young people here at this church. It does not go unnoticed by them or by me. 

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What’s New in Our Library

   Please accept my appreciation for your many gifts to the library.  You are invited to take advantage of the numerous books that provide good reading and information.

Lee Wrenn, Librarian

HEART SISTER BRUNCH

February 4, 2006

As a result of a couple of behind the scenes ladies the fellowship hall was beautifully decorated for the Heart Sister Brunch on Saturday morning, February 4, 2006.  This is a special time each year when the ladies gather to reveal who their secret Heart Sister has been for the past year.  This is a special secret to the ones involved because someone special to you has been praying for you and doing special little things for you each month during the past year.  You may have a low day and receive a card or a special little something to say “Have a good day, I’m praying for you.”  This just seems to help you get through the day and maybe even help you to be a blessing to someone else and lift them up.

After a delicious brunch of special goodies (that none of us needed), we had a special speaker, Sylvia Waters, who told us what the Heart Sister ministry meant to her.  Her words were very encouraging.  Then - - - - the secret was revealed. We found out who that special person for the past year had been.  Sometimes you have made a “wise” guess and know who she was, but most of the time it is a surprise. Thanks for the ladies that have participated in the “Heart Sisters” in the past and have been an encouragement to other ladies to join with us.  It is a lot of fun to keep a secret for a year and still be special to that secret person.

We look forward to having a lot more of you ladies “join up” and have fun being a blessing to a special lady for a year.

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 The Burnett’s Christmas Breakfast by:  Mildred Coppley

 There is much to be said about country ham, sausage, eggs, grits, hot biscuits and gravy.  It’s that southern meal we all loved, before those health reports and ugly rumors about clogged arteries.For some reason, I saw trust and faith that no harm would result, as 35—40 good Sheets Memorial Baptist ate their fill, Saturday morning, December 3rd, in the cafeteria.  After all, it was the Burnett’s Christmas gift to the Seniors.  (and a real good gift).  Much appreciation goes to the Burnetts, Juanita, Druid, Linda Myers and others.  Who ever  was in that kitchen early for all the preparations.

 LADIES’ BANQUET by:  Mildred Coppley

On April 29th at 6:00 P.M. the annual Ladies Banquet was held in the Fellowship Hall.  Approximately 96 attended the spring event. Family groupings filled many of the tables.  Pat Shoaf continues to show her gift of coordinating these events.  Beautiful decorations enhanced the expectancy of a well-planned evening.  The catered meal of chicken, pork and vegetables was well-prepared.           Pat opened the evening by expressing appreciation for all who assisted in the planning and work of the banquet. Tammy Everhart was in charge of distributing door prizes of the floral arrangements at each table. Martha Temple introduced our speaker, Renee’ Scheidt, who knows how to connect with her audience.  She is a member of the National Speakers Association and holds a Master of Church Music degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.  Widowed at 32, she raised two daughters.  She is now remarried to Mel Melton and resides in North Carolina. Renee’ Scheidt was a dynamic speaker with a memorable message touching many hearts as she expressed her own tragic experiences and thoughts of “What God Can Do When You Go To Him In Your Brokenness.!” Apreciation, again, goes to Pat Shoaf and all who assisted her.

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SWEETHEART BANQUET  by:  Mildred Coppley

Heart Notes of Hope

Valentine Day was always a special day at my house.  I can’t recall a time when there was not a large “mushy” “I love you” card, along with a wonderful box of chocolate candy waiting for me on the kitchen counter.  That lasted for 46 years. I’m sure there were many of you at the Sweetheart Banquet with precious memories of cards, candy or special dates with a loved one no longer with you.  Those were good memories and helped us to celebrate Valentine Day, 2006. Fifty plus seniors and younger couples attended the annual banquet, Saturday evening, February 11th, held in the fellowship hall.  Beautiful red and white decorations reflected traditional colors and theme of love.  Aromas from the kitchen announced the preparations of a meal fit for a roomful of hungry sweethearts.

Pastor Frankie Matthews presided as Master of Ceremonies.  He expressed appreciation to Dennis and Elsie Brunette, David and Juanita Myers, David and Linda Myers, Lewis and Jean Brown and Kenneth and Jan Cline, who provided the meal and decorations. After the meal, Pastor Matthews entertained by reading humorous antidotes and jokes relating to marriage, love, etc. Music for the evening was provided by Brian and Stephanie Weer.  Stephanie presented a beautiful medley of love songs, accompanied by Brian on an electric key board. Brian played a selection of songs, challenging the audience to “Name That Tune.”  Prizes were awarded.  Elsie Saul recognized the most tunes. Ralph and Eva Shaw were awarded a prize for being married the shortest length of time.  Other prizes were given to the couple married the longest. Dorcas and Mildred received a prize for best dressed. 

If the truth was known, the prizes were awarded for the courage to wear the red hats presented to them several months ago by Pastor Matthews and Edith. The weather was not the best that night with rain and snow.  However, the banquet was a most enjoyable occasion with an appreciative group of Sheets’ folks, looking forward to next year.

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APPRECIATION

Brian Weer, accompanist, choir, narrators and sound technicians  for a great Easter Cantata!!!! 

Amos Fritts & Roy Berrier a special thanks for assistance unloading supplies for Berea’s S.S. Class Christmas Tea. 

Special Thanks to Men’s Wide Awake Class for the generous fruit bags given to widows and widowers. 

Special Thanks to Southern Lunch      for donating the slaw at the Stewardship Banquet. 

Special Thanks  to Dan Hightower & his cooking crew who donated their Sunday afternoon & all the ingredients for the delicious potato salad & baked beans for the Stewardship Banquet.  Also to James Paul & trustees for the power point presentation—Gary Koontz for setting up sound—Ralph, Molly & Christian for decorating & Chip Norris & helpers for setting up tables & chairs.  And to everyone who brought desserts & those who stayed to help tear down tables, etc. 

Special Thanks   to all who helped in getting ready for the Sportsman Banquet. -Setting up, sound checks, decorating, cooking food, providing door prizes, etc. 

Special Thanks   to Jimmy & James, Charles & Carole Shoaf & Greg Moretz & anyone else who has volunteered their time to help with renovations.  Which has saved the church thousands of dollars!

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Christian Animal Life

I know that Charles Darwin was wrong when he advanced his theory of evolution—- even he admitted it before he died.  But honestly, some Christians today often remind me of animals.  For instance:

Some churchgoers seem as stubborn as mules about helping at church, as sly as a fox in business dealings, as busy as bees in spreading gossip, but as quiet as a mouse in spreading the Gospel. They have eyes like a hawk in seeing a mote in another’s eye, but are as blind as a bat in seeing their own faults.  They are as eager as a beaver about picnics, but as lazy as a dog about prayer meetings, and as mean as snakes when things don’t go their way.  Many are night owls on Saturday night, but bedbugs on Sunday morning.  They are as slippery as eels on Sunday afternoon, and as scarce as hen’s teeth on Sunday night.  

Does this sound familiar?  

The only reason anyone would act like the animals I described above is because of spiritual immaturity.  Many act like babies because they are “babies in Christ,” or worse yet, they are unsaved.  In either case, the answer is Christ.  First, trust Him for salvation, and then look unto Him for direction and spiritual growth.  Christians, like sheep, often wander and go astray.  Christ the Good Shepherd will show you the way because He is the way!  (John 14:6)  --Courtesy of WHPE

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