FIRST WORD March 2019
First Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Frank D. Tucker, Senior Pastor
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ** 712 RANDOLPH ST NW, WASHINGTON, DC ** REVEREND DR. FRANK D. TUCKER, SENIOR PASTOR
The month of March is an unpredictable time. It comes in like a roaring lion and goes out gentle as a lamb. Like a cold winter snow storm followed by the warm breath of spring. Or it may be a combination of both simultaneously. For me, it has been the gloom of death and the joy of birth. The 8th of March one year ago brought the transition of my wife, First Lady Brenda Tucker. Just three days later was her birthday. We celebrated her homegoing on March 16, 2018, followed by my birthday the very next day, March 17. What a challenging emotional roller coaster. Without the sure Hand of God guiding our every movement, our journey would be insecure and uncertain. Because He lives in us, we are confident that “all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord.” This year, on the second Sunday (March 10), our time will change to Eastern Daylight Savings Time. On the same day, in a major innovation, First Baptist will change our time of worship. This conversion will be in two parts: We will move to one Worship Service on Sundays. The service will begin at 10:00 A. M. The Church School will be each Sunday from 8:45 A.M. to 9:45 A.M. Please share this information with fellow members and friends. On Sunday, March 17, 2019, at 10:00 A.M., the Church will celebrate with the Pastor his 80th Birthday. The celebration will be a Praise and Worship Service followed by a Fellowship
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Hour. Each member is asked to give $80 on that day for the Elevator Fund. Envelopes will be available for you to place your special contributions in. The elevator project proceeds under construction. We expect the project to be completed during late spring. Let’s make a special effort to support the fundraising efforts. All of us will be blessed by this improvement. Our Officers Day will be held on Sunday, March 24, 2019 at the 10:00 A.M. Worship Service. All officers are expected to be present. Our preacher will be The Reverend Joel Limerick. Let’s all be present to support our officers and share in a collective expression of appreciation for the work they do. On Saturday, March 30, 2019, our Christian Education Ministry will be sponsoring a special workshop on Church Vision. The workshop presenter will be The Reverend Dr. Norman Tate. The leaders of the church ministries are expected to be present. Members who wish to participate in the future of our church are encouraged to share in this visionary workshop. We are grateful to God for all He is doing for each of us and the entire First Baptist Family. His blessings abound. He is restoring employment, healing the sick, comforting the bereaved and rescuing the lost. Only you know what He is doing for you. Let us continue to give Him the praise. He deserves all of our commitment and faithfulness to Him. When we surrender to Christ, we are guided and protected by the Power of the Holy Spirit.
Happy 80 Birthday celebration th
Reverend Dr. Frank D. Tucker Dear Friends, You are invited to help us celebrate the Pastor’s "80 Years of Wisdom" at a Fellowship Reception on Sunday, March 17, 2019 immediately following the 10 A.M. worship service in Ida Clark Hall. A gift of $80.00 is suggested as an adequate gift for the Pastor. Of course if you’d like to give more, you can. Your gift of $80.00 will be used for the “Elevator Fund” in honor of Pastor Tucker. He will be greatly appreciative of your generosity and thoughtfulness. Special envelopes are available for you to place your gifts in. Please make checks payable to: First Baptist Church – memo: Pastor’s 80th Birthday. For proper accounting and acknowledgement of your gift, please give your envelope to Deaconess Yvonne Harris or Deaconess Naomi Rembert. Thank you for your previous support of the Elevator Fundraising Project. As you can see around you, the work has begun and within a few months, you will be enjoying the fruits of your sacrifices and generosity. In the meantime, do know we need your continued financial support for this meaningful project. May God bless you richly,
Deacon LeRoy Bagley, Sr. Chairman of the Elevator Fundraising Project Page 3
“FINDING FREEDOM THROUGH SACRIFICE, STRUGGLE AND KNOWING OUR HISTORY” By The Reverend Donald Robinson and Deacon Bruce Roberson Civil rights activist, author, lawyer, scholar and founder of “Trans Africa,” Randall Robinson, wrote a seminal book entitled, “The Debt.” The book focuses on the building, empowerment and positioning of America as a dominate world power using the blood, sweat, tears and sacrifices of African-American slaves. In this powerful and controversial book, Randall Robinson makes a case for the enormous debt America owes to Africans and African Americans for the incalculable damage blacks have suffered and continue to suffer as a result of nearly two hundred and fifty years of slavery and segregation. Well over a century after the end of slavery, black Americans are still poorer, less educated and earning less than their white counterparts. Statistics reveal that they lag behind whites in nearly every area of mainstream American life. In Robinson’s view, this great divide cannot be bridged, or our racial problems solved, until two things happen: 1) America must accept responsibility for the grievous wrong that has been committed against Africans and African Americans; 2) and take steps to redress that wrong. Meanwhile, African Americans need to arm themselves with a more comprehensive awareness of their ancient history and a fuller recognition of their ongoing contributions to our nation and the world. Moreover, if we push the proverbial envelope further, we could say this present generation of African Americans also owe our ancestors a tremendous
“debt” for leaving us a better world than the one they were born in. Having said that, one of the first things we can do is to address this “indebtedness” is to strive to be morally sound, spiritually rich, professionally poised, physically fit and financially “Debt Free” people! On Saturday, March 16, 2019 (from 9:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M.) join the First Baptist Church Men’s Ministry, as we host a special breakfast meeting regarding, “Finding Freedom Through Sacrifice and Struggle.” We will view part two of a comprehensive documentary regarding our history and heritage. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to learn about your great history. Let us make a commitment to know our history and to pay the “Debt” we owe God, our families and countless persons who believed in us enough to leave the world a lot better for us than it was for them!
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First Baptist Church 712 Randolph Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 Reverend Dr. Frank D. Tucker Senior Pastor
2019 Christian Education Spring Institute Offers a Workshop on
The Power of Vision Based on The Power of Vision: Discover and Apply God's Vision for Your Life & Ministry by George Barna
Facilitated by Reverend Dr. Norman Tate Saturday, March 30, 2019 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ida Clark Hall Continental breakfast will be served
Deaconess Sherón Spann, Chairperson Reverend Nancy Knight, Minister of Christian Education Page 5
“SHARING IS CARING” By Sister Colleen SweaTt & MEMBERS OF FBC MISSIONARY MINISTRY Scripture Romans 12:6, 1 Corinthians 7:7; 1 Timothy 4:14, 1 Peter4:10-11 Reflection – Have you ever admired someone for his or her abilities? Have you ever taken the time to think about what God has gifted you with? In what ways can gifts be shared? Prayer – God, help me to become better at utilizing the gifts and talents you have given me. Give me the desire to use what I have for your glory. Then provide me with the strength I need so that I will not be ashamed to use my gifts and talents boldly for YOU! What would be the point of knowing how to draw and no one sees your art? What would be the point of knowing how to cook and no one ever eats your food? What would be the point of paying for a movie ticket and you don’t watch the movie? None of the above situations make sense. So, why have a gift that God gives you and not use it? Better yet, why have a gift from God and not use it to minister and make our Heavenly Father proud? We must realize, spiritual gifts should be used to benefit the kingdom of God. We cannot be selfish and hide the gifts God has given to us. We must remember to give back to God what he has given to us. Just like when you have an after school or weekend job, you pay your tithes. God allowed you to get a job and He allows your employer to have money to pay you. So, give back to God what is His. The same is true when it comes to spiritual gifts. We must give back to God, that which has come from God! If you are good with children, volunteer in your church nursery. If you are a people person, help encourage someone who is down. Use kind words to help someone in difficult times.
It’s not just about what gift you have; but how you use your gift. Even as a teen, you have probably found yourself in a situation where you had to console a friend because a relative died or because they failed a math test. You may have even tutored someone in a subject that comes easy to you. It’s possible you have been a leader in student council and planned extra-curricular events. These are all examples of spiritual gifts which are being put to use in everyday situations. It’s the little things that make a big difference. Use the simple, everyday tactics to do the extra–ordinary. Touching the lives of people through words can make a big difference. Even being a leader is a gift. Take a chance on the person God created you to be. Challenge yourself to step out on faith and use your gifts to reach others. Make your Heavenly Father proud by giving Him Glory as you use the gifts He has given you. As missionaries, we continued to reach out to families, friends, and neighbors who are in need. Remember, on the first Sunday of each month we would like for you to join us at Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home. Your presence will make a big difference in the life and well-being of the residents there. Please remember the missionaries meet every 4th Saturday @12 Noon of each month at FBC. Please come out and join us. Remember God Loves Us, as you enjoy this new month of March!
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“YOUTH NEWS, YOU CAN USE” By Sister Kareema Robinson
Believe What You Feel On a certain day, a teacher said that he had an exercise for his class to try. We were to stand, facing away from our classmates, and fall backward, relying on one another to catch us. Most of us were uncomfortable with this exercise and we couldn’t let go for more than a few inches before stopping ourselves. We laughed in embarrassment. Finally, one student, a thin, quiet, darkhaired girl whom I noticed almost always wore bulky, white fisherman sweaters, crossed her arms over her chest, closed her eyes, leaned back and did not flinch, like one of those Lipton tea commercials, where the model splashes into the pool. For a moment, I was sure she was going to fall on the floor. At the last instant, her assigned partner grabbed her head and shoulders and yanked her up harshly. “Whoa!” several students yelled. Some clapped. The teacher finally smiled. “You see,” he said to the girl, “you closed your eyes.” That was the difference. Sometimes you cannot believe what you see. Therefore, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them too – even when you're in the dark. Even when you're falling. Wise Words For Our Youth You are in a world of prejudgment, but you can still redefine yourself. Don’t ever let anyone question your blackness — it’s not their right. Success is not only through fame and fortune, but hard work and integrity. Page 7
Athletes and entertainers are not the only aspiring role models — search for mentors and role models in your community and elsewhere. Being light or dark-skinned makes you no better or inferior than another person. Boys, it’s okay to express your emotions; and girls, it’s okay to exercise independence. Education is and will always be essential — no matter what career you choose. Words are stronger than fists. Use them more. Let your inner beauty be shown through your personal creativity, not just from pop culture. You are smart and entitled to happiness; just like anyone else in the world. A big shout out and congratulations to George Hancock who was chosen to perform his original poem, “Will It Ever End?” at the Frederick Douglass Birthday Celebration, held on February 16th. Please congratulate him when you see him On the second Sunday in March we will be celebrating Girl Scout Day with our troops leading the 10:00 A.M. Worship Service. Our troops continue to provide an opportunity for our girls to build courage, leadership, confidence and character to enable them to make the world a better place. And if you haven’t already done so, do pick up a few boxes of those delicious Girl Scout cookies. Thanks and appreciation to all who joined our youth and youth leaders on our first annual Snow Tubing Trip that was held Saturday, February 23rd. An awesome time was had by all, who traveled with us to Lewisberry,
“YOUTH NEWS, YOU CAN USE” (CONT’D) Pennsylvania. In addition to snow tubing, some of our group also had the opportunity to participate in zip lining.
Parents: We know your children are doing awesome things in school and the community. Please let us know so we can share their accomplishments with our church family. Forward information to Sister Kareema Robinson. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift that’s why it’s called the present. Page 8
“ANNUAL OFFICERS’ DAY” MARCH 24, 2019 DEACON, DEACONESS AND TRUSTEE MINISTIES “TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THINE HEART AND LEAN NOT TO YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING, IN ALL THY WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AND HE WILL DIRECT THEY PATH” (PROvERS 3:5,6) On this “Annual Officers’ Day,” we the officers and members of the First Baptist Church (FBC) seek to grow in spiritual maturity and in partnership with our beloved Pastor and Members. As Deacons, we are pleased to provide leadership and support to our church through Worship, Discipleship and Fellowship. We further commit ourselves to faithful study and to share the Word of God with every member. We will actively participate in Bible Study, Prayer Service and all related activities of the church. Because of Christ, the Board of Deacons has accomplished many great things including the cultivation of countless spiritual advisors for our circle ministry. We have done this by going out to visit our sick and shut in, as well as the bereaved. We also feed the hungry and assist the homeless with lodging. The Deacon Board is always looking for good men, who are willing to render service for the Lord and their church. Additionally, The Board of Trustees also plays a vital role in the life our church. They transact all purchases, facilitate the maintenance on all church properties and conduct all of the financial and the legal matters of our church. They also provide outstanding leadership for our church, as they diligently move forward with the implementation of improvements which ensures high productivity and optimum utilization of all of our facilities. They are also active in Worship, Bible Study, Community Concerns, as well as the Prayer Service. The Deaconess Board is also a significant blessing to our church. They serve faithfully and work alongside of our Deacons. They dutifully nurture souls, as they teach, counsel and cultivate members through their compassionate leadership. The Deaconess also help prepare souls for Baptism and assist the Deacons as they serve the Sick and Shut In. They also assist with the preparation of the Communion elements. They disciple, nurture and train all of our Junior Deaconesses. Moreover, they help feed the homeless, they work with the Outreach Program and provide spiritual guidance to families in need who come to the church for help. Whatever task that is set before them, they accomplish it efficiently and with great pride. The Deacons, Deaconess and Trustees of FBC are happy to do whatever they can to enhance the progress and well-being of our church. They serve with great joy and gladness, therefore we are most grateful for their continued support, sacrifices and service. We are grateful to have all three Boards giving of their service to First Baptist Church. Join us on the 24th of March during the 10:00 A.M. Worship Service, as we praise and worship the great things God is doing in the lives of “HIS” servants. The Reverend Joel Limerick, Associate Pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church will be our guest preacher.
Prepared By Reverend Donald D. Robinson Page 9
“CHOOSING THE HIGH ROAD DURING BAD TIMES” By Brother Kevin Shamblee Making good choices during difficult times may prove to be tough for some. For others, despite many obstacles, setbacks or mistakes, the right road is the only direction to take. Take for instance the story of Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, who was sold by his brothers into slavery. He became a prisoner and eventually a high political official under Pharaoh in Egypt. As his story continued those same brothers who did harm to Joseph, later came to Egypt and received his help during a time of famine in Canaan. Joseph chose the high road during very bad times. Under the direction and protection of Joseph, all of Jacob’s offspring and servants multiplied and prospered during a significant famine season. As four hundred years have transpired in our text from the book of Exodus, other heroes have been catapulted into the forefront. These new stars of the story are the midwives. In Old Testament times, the midwives helped women during childbirth, as well as until the mothers became strong enough to care for their child on their own. This story of Joseph’s success and Jacob’s offspring changes to one of despair. Pharaoh wanted to kill Jacob’s offspring. He wanted the midwives to do his dirty work. The women, who chose the high road of helping to deliver these babies, were now asked to destroy all of the newborn boys. It seems as though there are often people who make it very tough for us to choose the high road. When we try to do the right thing and prosper, there are always others who wish to destroy our success. There are others who are banking on us to give up and fall into a life of sin. It seems there is always opposition to the plan of God in our lives.
God wants us to do? This is a tough question to answer, especially, when the conflict is with those in authority (i.e. bosses). The conflict is even greater when those closest to us or our peers are in opposition to what God wants us to do. Just imagine the pressure the midwives felt as they defied the commands of Pharaoh. The answer is always best pursued when we take the high road. This road is always difficult, especially in tough times. Having said that, a greater question learned from the heroism of the midwives is “how do we stop the pressures of passions of life from altering our commitments to God?” From the story of the midwives, these answers come to mind: These include: Our faith in God; Our remembrance that pressure only makes us stronger and; The assurance that God will deal well with us, while we travel on the high road of His will. Faith is often demonstrated because the midwives feared God and chose the high road. Pressure is demonstrated because the babies multiplied in spite of the many attempts to destroy them. In the end, God dealt well with the midwives. During the month of March, as we continue to celebrate our “Pastor’s Birthday,” this is an excellent opportunity to begin a journey on the high road, as we deal with life’s obstacles, setbacks or mistakes. The high road is found through faith, prayer and commitment. Let’s enjoy the high road together!
How and when do we decline the request of others when it conflicts with our belief in what
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FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH HEALTH MINISTRY
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March 2019 Events (All Service Will Begin At 10:00 A.M.)
Communion Sunday - March 3, 2019 Youth Sunday - March 10, 2019 MEN’S EMPHASIS SUNDAY AND REvEREND DR. FRANK D. TUCKER’S Birthday CELEBRATION - March 17, 2019 OFFICER’S SUNDAY - March 24, 2019
GUEST PREACHER THE REVEREND JOEL LIMERICK, ASSOCIATE PASTOR, PILGRIM BAPTIST CHURCH 2019 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION SPRING INSTITUTE WORKSHOP SATURDAY - March 30, 2019 Palm Sunday and Missionary Sunday March 31, 2019
First Baptist Church 712 Randolph Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 (202) 541-5000 ~ Fax: (202) 291-2565 Email: fchurch@1fbc.org