THOUGHTS FROM OUR SENIOR MINISTER
Rev. David Clifford
For those that might not be aware, we have just concluded our Lenten Sermon Series, “God on the Move.” I had challenged both myself and the worship committee in testing a lectionary sermon series idea out. The thought process is that a sermon series gives us a natural beginning and ending in which folks could invite friends to church with them. It seems an easier task to get folks to try out church for four to seven weeks rather than a one-time shot or the rest of their lives. Our plan was to test-run two sermon series through Lent and Easter. I believe our first went rather well.
Next week we will move into our Easter Sermon Series, “Surprise! The Unexpected Acts of God.” This seven-week sermon series will focus on the unlikely, ironic, and surprising stories in the book of Acts. We will start this series next week with a sermon titled, “A Surprising Turnaround” focused on Acts 5:27-32. The series will lead us up to Pentecost, at which time we will celebrate a surprise birthday party for the church (but don’t tell her, it’s a surprise).
Many of us know the excitement and disquiet that comes with the sudden reversal of our expectations. The early Christians, whose stories are told in the book of Acts, have no shortage of surprises as they attempt to live into the way of Christ. The resurrection we just celebrated Sunday sets off a host of unexpected events and changes for Jesus’ followers—even changes within themselves. If our own spiritual lives have come to seem humdrum and every day, these stories will awaken in us a new desire for God’s work in the lives of unsuspecting, ordinary people like ourselves.
As we join together in exploring the journey of surprises over the next few weeks, we will learn the spiritual habit of welcoming an unpredictable God and coming to expect the unexpected. I want to encourage you each to invite someone on this journey with us. You may be surprised by their response. There is someone you know looking for the surprising grace of God in their lives. Our “Surprise!” Easter Series will help us all to expect the unexpected Acts of God in our lives.
I have listed the seven sermon titles and focused scripture readings below so you won’t be surprised by any of them. I look forward to seeing each of you for this wonderful series and being surprised by the friends you will bring with you.
Easter Peace,
Rev. David Clifford
Date Sermon Title Focus Scripture
April 24 A Surprising Turnaround Acts 5:27-32
May 1 An Unlikely Friendship Acts 9:1-20
May 8 (Mother’s Day) An Astonishing Imitation Acts 9:36-43
May 15 An Unexpected Change of Menu Acts 11:1-18
May 22 An Amazing Detour Acts 16:9-15
May 29 An Ironic Escape Acts 16:16-34
June 5 (Pentecost) The Ultimate Surprise Party Acts 2:1-21
Four “Missionaries” Who Make a Big Difference
Rev. David Clifford recently received this letter regarding four members of our congregation who volunteer at the Free Tax Preparation Site of the Housing Authority. This is just one group of the many groups and individuals in our church who voluntarily serve the needs of our community. Congratulations to the four individuals below whose work has been noted and appreciated.
“Hi David,
“You probably already know about this. FCC has four Tax Missionaries that have faithfully volunteered for the FREE Tax Preparation Site at the Housing Authority. Our volunteer season is long, from January 1 training to our last day on April 12. “They are: Barbara Sprague, Dave Sprague, Sandy Deitz, and Sonny Beaven.
“They are among 24 other professional community volunteers that will help 1600 people get their taxes filed for free, and over 2.2 million dollars of tax refund money come into the community.
“It is unusual to have four volunteers from the same church. As a volunteer site coordinator, I appreciate these people’s efforts. This community financial uplift program appreciates the efforts of these First Christian Church members. Way to go, Church!”
Thank you kindly,
Nibby Priest
Henderson Christian Community Outreach
Henderson Christian Community Outreach (HCCO) opened its doors April 4, 2022. Entering through the front doors, you are welcomed by a friendly reception area where you register for your needs. After you register, you proceed into the waiting area where you will start the day with a prayer and devotion. Once you are called you will be interviewed in a private room. The interviewer will then take you to shop for your groceries in a much lager space. To the left of the reception are there is another private room with someone for you to talk to or for those needing prayer. The building also has a much-needed storage room with easy access for deliveries and pick-up of commodities. In addition, there is a conference room and a couple of office spaces for the affiliated with HCCO to use. This is not a place for handouts, but a place to empower people to live a better lifestyle. Our church has volunteers to serve every third Thursday of the month, if you are interested in helping serve God by serving people, please contact Debbie Enyart at 270-860-0168. (Picture above is the new facility for HCCCO located at 509 5th Street.)
COME JOIN OUR WATCH PARTY
Ministries (CWF) Spring Conference. This will take place at our church on April 30, starting at 8:30 am for greeting and lite breakfast. The conference will begin at 9:00am and will be live stream on the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kentucky Facebook page. The schedule includes: worship, music and workshops. It looks like it will be an exciting event! We’re asking any of the churches in District 2, which includes us, that do not have access to internet to come fellowship with us. Lunch will be provided. Please contact Debbie Enyart at (270) 860-0168 if you wish to attend.
Family Fun Night – May 15 5:00-7:00 PM
One of our church’s goals as we move out of the COVID pandemic is to help our congregation get re-connected and re-energize in an attempt to share joy within our community of faith. Our hope is that May 15th Family Fun Night will help us accomplish this goal. We will share great food, fellowship, and fun. Our plan is to share a meal and play Family Feud as a church family. It is sure to be a lot of fun. You can help us by going to the website below or scanning the QR code and answering the Family Feud Survey. Even if you aren’t able to be at the Family Fun Night, you can answer the survey. We need as many responses as possible to play the game. We will also be passing out the survey through the church office and during worship. If you struggle with the website, you can get a hard copy at the church. Your participation is much appreciated. https://fcchend.breezechms.com/form/d44a3e
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Worship Leaders for May: Serving elders are Davis & Barbara Sprague.
An Elders meeting is scheduled for May 9 @ 6:00 p.m. A lite supper will be provided. As an Elder we ask that you please prayerful consider joining this scheduled ministry meeting. An email has been sent out and a letter to follow.
We will have a 2022 Graduate Recognition during worship Sunday, May 15. Please call or email the church office with your graduates’ information.
CWF will be collecting deodorant throughout the month of April. A big thanks to all who support our CWF group and Community Outreach.
