J U LY 2026
With Christ at the Center
VO LU M E S S N O. 7
CONNECTIONS
We had the best week during Vacation Bible School: Snowball Mountain Challenge! Many thanks to everyone who helped make this week a success. We can't wait to see you all again for VBS next summer!
From the Minister for Adult Discipleship A Summer Rhythm of Rest and Fellowship — As we enter the month of July, I want to take a moment to express deep gratitude for the many faithful volunteers who make our Faith Formation ministry possible. Week after week, our teachers prepare lessons, welcome classmates, facilitate discussions, and create space where folks of all ages can grow in their relationship with God and one another. Their commitment is a tremendous gift to our church family. Their dedication also reminds me of a key Baptist principle rooted in 1 Peter 2:1-5, that “we are pastors to each other.” Church does not simply happen on its own; it thrives when ordinary people share their gifts, time, and care with one another. Through teaching, listening, encouraging, and serving, our Faith Formation leaders help nurture the spiritual life of our congregation. Please join me in expressing appreciation for the ways these teachers invest themselves in the life and ministry of our church. As in years past, our Faith Formation classes will not meet during the month of July. This brief
pause provides our teachers and volunteers with a well-deserved opportunity to rest, travel, spend time with family, and enjoy a slower pace during the summer season. Just as Sabbath rest is an important part of the Christian life, taking time to step away from regular responsibilities allows us to return refreshed and renewed for the ministry ahead. During July, everyone is invited to gather each Sunday morning at 9am in the Crouch Fellowship Hall for breakfast and fellowship. These summer breakfasts provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with one another in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Whether you are a longtime member, a new attendee, or simply visiting, you are warmly invited to enjoy fresh coffee, bacon, and other breakfast favorites. The cost is only $5 per person, and children eat free. One of the great blessings of church life is the relationships we build with one another. During the busyness of the year, our schedules can often make it difficult to enjoy unhurried conversations. These July breakfast gatherings will offer us a chance to
slow down, share a meal, catch up with friends, meet new people, and strengthen the bonds that unite us as a church family. Summer often brings a different rhythm to our lives. While some activities pause for a season, our calling to love God and love one another continues. This summer, you are encouraged to remain engaged in worship, prayer, service, and fellowship. Faith Formation classes will resume in August, and we look forward to another year of learning, spiritual growth, and discipleship together. Here’s wishing you and your family a wonderful, safe, and refreshing summer. I’ll see you at Sunday breakfast!
Rev. M. Blake Kendrick Minister for Adult Discipleship SERMON TEXTS THIS MONTH July 5 Zechariah 9:9-12 July 12 Genesis 25:19-34 July 19 Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 July 26 Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52