The Messenger
Children’s Ministry at PassportKids- Wide Open Spaces
In June, a group of FXBG Baptist children spent of four days at camp Their days were filled with joy, discovery, and the presence of God as we explored the theme “Wide Open Spaces.” Each day focused on a meaningful concept A Space of Welcome, A Space to Act, and A Space to Dance inviting children to grow in both faith and friendship.
From heartfelt worship to spirited games and deep conversations, our campers had an amazing time strengthening their faith and building relationships with one another
A huge thank you to our incredible chaperones who made this unforgettable experience possible through their leadership, care, and energy!
Save The Date For Adult Trips This Fall
Lunch at Graves Mountain LodgeOctober 22nd
Overnight Trip to Williamsburg September 23rd-24th
A Pentecost Thank You
A few weeks ago, we celebrated the birthday of the Church on Pentecost. And friends, you responded with generosity and vision for the future
Together, you gave $65,000 above and beyond your regular giving to invest in the life and mission of our church That kind of response is more than financial it’s spiritual. It says: We believe in where God is leading us. We’re all in. I could not be more grateful.
God is clearly at work in and through this congregation And moments like these remind us of the faithfulness that defines this church not just in word, but in action
It’s not every day that you get to serve alongside someone you once led in youth ministry. But this summer, that’s exactly the joy I have as we welcome William Whitehurst as our summer intern. Many of you already know William he grew up in this church, laughing in the hallways, asking good (and sometimes wild!) questions about the Bible, showing up with joy, and always bringing a spirit of curiosity and learning.
It’s been a gift to watch him mature in faith and character over the years, and it’s even more meaningful now to see him exploring what ministry might look like in his life. Below, in his own words, William shares a bit about his journey so far, his hopes for this internship, and how God might be shaping his future.
“Hello, my name is William Whitehurst. I am currently a junior at Old Dominion University, pursuing my bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. I have attended Fredericksburg Baptist Church my whole life and am now interning here. I chose to intern here to gain experience in the field of ministry as I consider how I want to pursue a career in ministry. One of the things I have done so far is help with Passport Kids.
It was a valuable experience to gain insight into what children’s ministry looks like. I have also had the opportunity to lead worship and write the order of serv I also gained experience writing a sermon based on Genesis 1 One of the other things I have done is learn how to plan events from youth/children’s activities to retreats One of the things I did was plan an event for the youth in the fall I will be helping with other youth and young adult events that take place this summer Some of that includes going to Passport with the youth and leading a young adult devotion Another hope I have for this internship is that it will also give me experience in pastoral care. I have gained some experience with pastoral care on a more informal basis while attending Passport Kids. I will also get that experience with the youth when I go to Passport with them. My plan after college, so far, is to explore a career in lawenforcement, whether that involves local, state, or federal law enforcement I also plan to attend seminary and pursue a career in ministry or chaplaincy ”
We are proud of William not only because of where he’s been but also because of where he’s headed His willingness to listen to God’s call and serve with his whole heart is already a gift to our church family. If you haven’t had the chance to get to know him, I encourage you to reach out, say hello, and let him know how grateful we are to be part of his journey.
Let’s continue to pray for William as he listens, learns, and leads We’re better because he’s here
Exciting News from Potter’s House Preschool
In the spirit of growth and forward movement, we are overjoyed to share with you a leadership transition in our Potter’s House Preschool a ministry deeply rooted in the mission of Fredericksburg Baptist Church
Running a preschool like Potter’s House requires more than classrooms and crayons After much discernment, we’ve strengthened our structure by moving to a Collaborative CoLeadership Model a model that affirms our mission and makes space for sustainable, Christ-centered leadership.
Our mission remains the same: To provide a Christ-centered, developmentally rich environment where every child is loved, nurtured, and empowered to grow spiritually, socially, emotionally, and intellectually
Our vision is steady and bold: To be a trusted and transformative preschool in Fredericksburg where faith forms the foundation, curiosity leads to discovery, and every child flourishes in a community of safety, excellence, and joy.
We are thrilled to announce our two co-leaders who will share the leadership of our preschool while continuing to serve as teachers:
Brandi Creel, Personnel & Daily Management Lead Brandi brings over 25 years of early childhood education experience and a deep understanding of leadership and teamwork. Her love for children and her steady, caring presence in the classroom make her an ideal partner to guide our staff and support our families.
“We are committed to ensuring that all families, children, and staff members feel supported, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them” – Brandi
Shanna Gassie, Operations & Licensing Lead Shanna is a lifelong member of Fredericksburg Baptist Church, an alumna of our preschool, a preschool parent, and now a beloved teacher. Her insight into the structure, history, and heart of this ministry gives her a unique and beautiful voice in shaping what comes next
“Having experienced the preschool as a student, parent, church member, and now teacher, I bring a deep appreciation for all this community offers.” – Shanna
Together, Brandi and Shanna embody our culture: Rooted in Love Centered on Christ Committed to One Another
Their shared leadership will continue to build a culture that reflects who we are as a church: collaborative, thoughtful, joyfilled, and grounded in the love of Jesus.
Please join us in praying for them, supporting them, and celebrating this step forward in our ministry to children and families
MEMORIALS / HONORS
Month of June
In Memory Of
Ministry Memorial Fund – for Marion Dietz on her birthday, June 9, given by Gail Hylton
Organ Restoration Fund – for Monica MacIndoe, given by Catherine Ryder for Shirley Onderdonk, given by Francis & Dot Curtis; Rosemary Dodd; Matt Haney; Tom & Joyce Mulcahy; Ruth Ellen Richardson; Sandra Stein; John & Michelle Wood; Bill & Nancy Young; Mary-Martha/Caverlee/Perry Sunday School Class
Benevolence – for Roy Wiltshire on his birthday, June 23, given by Gail Hylton
Children’s Ministry – for Jessica Pierson on her birthday, June 27, given by Gail Hylton
Watering the Roots Capital Fund – for Donald Dodd, given by Rosemary Dodd
In Honor Of
Ministry Fund Pentecost Surprise – for Bev Haney on her 70th Birthday, given by Donna Haney
Watering the Roots Capital Fund – for Jeanne Anderson at Pentecost, given by Jan Pierson
Upcoming Events
Theology on Tap
Tuesday, July 8th, 7-8:30 pm
Theology on Tap is back once a month for the summer! Join us for a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) back at Strangeways Brewing (350 Lansdowne Road) and some engaging conversation about theology and current events Contact Beth for more details at beth@fxbgbaptist org
Young Adult Sunday Brunch
Sunday, July 13 from 12:30-2 pm th
All young adults and college students are invited to Sunday Brunch at Foode! We will meet in front of the church at 12:30 pm after worship and walk over to Foode together for brunch Beth will cover your meal! Sign up by scanning the QR code by July 8th so Beth can make a reservation for our group. Contact Beth Bailey with any questions at beth@fxbgbaptist org
Mission Possible
Wednesday, July 16th, 5-7pm
Join us for a special evening where kids will learn about missionaries and the amazing work they do around the world Through stories, games, and a hands-on mission activity, children will discover how they can make a difference too It’s a night of fun, faith, prayer, and purpose don’t miss it!
Young Adult Sunset Series
Monday, July 21st, 7-8:30 pm
All young adults (college students included) are invited to Sunset Series this summer! Join us for our second Sunset Series at the Silvers' house from 7 to 8:30 pm for dinner, conversation, and a short devotional More details & sign-up can be found by scanning the QR code Please sign up by Thursday, July 17th so we can plan for dinner Contact Beth Bailey with any questions at beth@fxbgbaptist org
Lunch on the James
Wednesday, July 23rd, 9:45am- 3pm
Join us for a day of fellowship and lunch on the James River We will leave the church at 9:45am and travel on the bus to Richmond to enjoy lunch at Island Shrimp Company After lunch, we will make our way to the Sweet Spot Ice Cream shop for a sweet treat Lunch and ice cream will be on your own and we will return to Fredericksburg by 3pm Sign-up by calling the church office or emailing Tammy
High School Ice Cream Social
Wednesday, July 23rd, 7-8 pm
All youth who have just completed 9th through 12th grade are invited to an Ice Cream Social! Come hang out at Blue Cow Ice Cream Co in downtown FXBG from 7-8 pm Beth will cover the ice cream! Contact Beth for more details at beth@fxbgbaptist.org.
Youth Bay Day Trip
Sunday, July 27th, 12:30-7:30 pm
Open to all youth (rising 7th grade to graduated high schoolers)! Join us for a Bay Day Trip to the Bailey Farm on St Clements Bay, MD where we will enjoy time together on the water (boating, tubing, paddle boarding, and fishing) Scan the QR code for more details and to sign up Chaperones are needed! Sign up by July 23rd Contact Beth Bailey at beth@fxbgbaptist org for more details
