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Pastor's Page

Posted on June 20, 2008 ...

     I use a favorite expression when I am especially pleased and proud of the work of North Cleveland Baptist Church: That is our church at its best! Vacation Bible School Week is always one of those "church at its best" times for many good reasons...including:
Participation: Each year I am impressed with the sheer number of people who sacrifice their time and talents to this good ministry. Approximately 100 adults and youth were on campus every morning this week to teach, lead, and serve. Others who could not be here sent food, made financial contributions, and especially prayed for us.
Fellowship: Our Bible School structure mixes up our people in different ways. Through VBS people in our congregation get to know folks they may not usually meet in their usual church routine. In short, we get to know each other better.
Introductions: We will enroll well over 200 preschool and elementary age school kids in VBS this year. That is three times as many children as attend with us on a Sunday morning. No other event in our church gives us so broad an introduction to new homes.
Learning: During the 15 hours of VBS, these young lives hear 5 Bible stories, 4 mission stories, and will learn 4 new songs honoring Jesus. The fact is, for many of these children, Vacation Bible School will expose them to more Biblical truth than they otherwise may receive for many months to come.
Evangelism: Every year, boys and girls are reached for Jesus through Vacation Bible School. After sharing the salvation story with the older children, I have an individual conversation with every child that indicates he or she prayed to trust in Jesus. Letters are sent to their homes affirming these decisions. 
Outreach: On Sunday night, June 29, following a brief worship time at 6:00, we will send teams out to drop off packets from our church to the homes of VBS families with no local church affiliation. Afterwards, we will meet back at the church for ice cream. Lots of help in is needed. Sign up on this Sunday's registration form. You're the Best. Jay
Pastor's P.S. Remember the Special Business Meeting regarding our Building plans scheduled for after worship this Sunday night. Two weeks ago on Sunday evening, our church voted to pursue doing both a new building and renovating existing areas. A proposal to enter into a contract with a building contractor is expected to be presented this Sunday night.