WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Judy Caudill 

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#35 "Sing Hallelujah to the Lord"

Children’s Sermon
Passha Huffman  

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Connie
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#220 "Tell Me the Story of Jesus" v. 1, 2
#668 "Doxology" 

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Glen Echols 

Offertory: "Glorious Day"
Pastor Connie, soloist, & Susan Matney, piano 

Scripture Reading: Luke 4:31-44
Jeb Wallace 

Introduction of Speaker
Pastor Connie 

Sermon: "A Day in the Life of Jesus"
Rev. Skip Wallace, BGAV Field Strategist 

SERVICE
Hymn of Invitation
#288 "One Day" 

Announcements  

Sending Song
#667 "As We Go"

Benediction
Pastor Connie

Postlude
Susan Matney 

We invite all to join us for worship on Sunday morning at 10:45 AM in our Sanctuary or online by watching our live stream here. This Sunday we will be welcoming Rev. Skip Wallace, Field Strategist for the Baptist General Association of Virginia, to the pulpit. Come help us give Skip a wonderful, warm Melrose welcome!

Those 50 and older are invited to this month's Living Abundantly After Fifty (LAAF) gathering on Tuesday, October 20 at 10 AM in the Fellowship Hall. The gathering will begin with a musical performance from The Virginian's followed by a time of fellowship. Lunch is a potluck so please bring a dish to share! The Mission Action Project for this month is a collection of needed items for GW Carver Elementary School.

Please bring a donation of the following with you to the meeting:
- Boys' long-sleeve shirts and sweatshirts in sizes 6-12 and some sizes 14-18
- Boys' sweatpants and pants in sizes 6-12 and some sizes 14-18
- Girls' long-sleeve shirts and sweatshirts in sizes 6-18 especially sizes 6-12
- Girls' pants and leggings in sizes 6-18 especially sizes 6-12
- Winter coats for boys and girls in sizes 6-18
- Boys' and girls' underwear in sizes 6-18 with smaller sizes especially helpful

This is a friendly reminder that the church's monthly Business Meeting will be next Wednesday, October 21 at 6:15 PM. This month the proposed 2027 church budget will be discussed and voted on. To the view the proposed budget, please click HERE.

Ready to kick off the cozy season with a little DIY magic? Grab your friends and join us for a fun, creative night of crafting on Friday, October 23 at 5:30 PM. We will be transforming ordinary glass blocks into beautiful fall centerpieces or spooky Halloween decorations!

How it works:
1. Pick your vibe (Autumn vibes or Halloween fun)
2. Choose a custom vinyl design to apply to your block
3. Fill and decorate your block exactly how you want!
Everything you need—the glass blocks, vinyl designs, lights, and filler decorations—will be fully provided. Just bring your creativity (and maybe a friend)! Spaces are limited to 20 so we can make sure we have enough supplies for everyone so make sure to RSVP on the church website!

PLEASE NOTE
We are only providing ONE GLASS BLOCK per person. If you wish to make both a fall and Halloween themed block, please bring an additional glass block with you. Blocks can be purchased at Michaels.

Our Children in Action program is collecting new school supplies and backpacks for their pen pals in Honduras! The biggest need is backpacks but they are accepting all school supplies and all donations can be placed in the bin in the hallway outside the Sanctuary. The last day for donations is October 27!

The "tiny home" that we are building in partnership with Bonsack Baptist Church and Impact Missions is taking shape! We are having another work day this Saturday, October 10 from 9 AM-3 PM and all are invited to join us. The goal for Saturday is to install doors, windows, and vinyl siding.

Everyone is invited to come help- just come to Bonsack Baptist Church that morning and remember to bring work gloves and safety goggles. Lunch is being provided for all volunteers!

Are you interested in helping but can't make it Saturday? There are other work days that take place throughout the week, so let Pastor Mark know if you are interested in working at other times and he can let you know what days work will be going on. You can contact him by emailing mofield@melrosebaptist.org or calling the church at 540-366-6631, ext. 2.

PARKING LOT USAGE ON SATURDAY
Branch is going to be using the church parking lot on Saturday for their yearly Girls Build event. Please avoid coming to the church on Saturday if you can to provide enough parking for them.

In partnership with Family Promise, we will be hosting families at the church October 11-17. During that week, families will have dinner at the church and will be staying in several of our classrooms. This is a wonderful opportunity to serve families in our community that are facing homelessness and give them a safe and welcoming environment to stay with their children.
 
We are in need of volunteers to help us with the following:

• Setting up rooms from 4-6 PM on Sunday October 11, 7:30-9 AM on Sunday October 18
• Providing meals for around 15 from 6-8 PM on Friday and Saturday
• Overnight hosts from 8 PM - 7 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday

If you would like to volunteer for one or more of these opportunities, please sign up HERE.

At this time, Family Promise has 3 families with a total of 11 people in their program. Those numbers can change at any time. Please be in prayer that God will use us and Family Promise to help these families find not only temporary shelter but permanent homes!

Our Children in Action program is collecting new school supplies and backpacks for their pen pals in Honduras! The biggest need is backpacks but they are accepting all school supplies and all donations can be placed in the bin in the hallway outside the Sanctuary. The last day for donations is October 27!

The Sonshine Choir is now meeting on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 AM except for the days that LAAF takes place. They meet in the Choir Room and all senior adults are welcome!

New to the Sonshine Choir? A part of our music and Senior Adult Ministries, this energetic group periodically performs at local nursing homes and will travel to perform at some of our homebound members' place of residence. They use special bells and books to ring and sing their favorite hymns. No music reading knowledge is required. This group meets most Tuesday mornings at 10:30 AM.

Make sure to mark your calendars for this year's Fall Festival on Sunday, October 25 from 4-6 PM. This is our largest community event of the year and it is always a good time! ALL are welcome so please invite friends to join us!

What to expect this year:

• Trick-or-Treating
• FREE hot dog meal
• Face painting 
• Games
• Crafts 
• BINGO

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts
Cathy Craver

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Teresa Wallace

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#489 "Heavenly Sunlight" v. 1

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark 
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#432 "Speak, O Lord"
#433 "I Surrender All" v. 1

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer

Offertory: "Cornerstone"
Pastor Connie, soloist, & Susan Matney, piano

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture reading: Hebrews 4:12-16
Pat Tickle 

Sermon: “Exposed”
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
Hymn of Invitation
#433 "I Surrender All" v. 2, 3, 1

Announcements  

Sending Song
#422 "I Give All to You" v. 3

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

WORSHIP
Call to Center Hearts
Rev. Dr. Connie Cruze

Opening Meditation: "In This Very Room"
Homecoming Choir, John Rausch, soloist, & Susan Matney

Testimony in Song
Josephine Kigazi & Kiele Dudley 

FELLOWSHIP
Congregational Song: #393 "The Family of God"

Greeting and Welcome
Rev. Mark Mofield 

Congregational Song: "Melrose is a Place of Grace"

Children's Sermon
Tabby Adkinson

Testimony in Song: "The Building"
Heather, Kiele, & Remi Dudley & Pastor Connie

Celebrating Our Legacy- The Church Archives
Susan Matney

Our Praise and Thanksgiving: #391 "We Are Called to Be God's People"  

DISCIPLESHIP
Offertory Prayer
Rev. Trice Kasinga

Offertory: "Christians, We Have Met to Worship"
Rev. Wally & Melinda Mayo

Stewardship Moment
Leslie Dixon

Pastoral Prayer
Rev. Brenda Rowe

Testimony in Song: "Fear is Not My Future"
Anna Mullins, soloist, & Pastor Connie, piano

Scripture Reading: Genesis 28:16-17, Mark 5:17, Psalm 100:4
Karen Stephenson

Introduction to Speaker
Rev. Mark Mofield

Sermon: "Moment in Time"
Rev. Larry Sprouse

Hymn of Response: #22 "We Will Glorify"

Announcements & Blessing 

MEDITATION SCRIPTURE
"Jesus looked up to heaven and said, …“I am in them, and You are in Me.  May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that You sent Me and that You love them as much as You love Me.”
- John 17:23 

October Play- Dartball Fellowship
Dartball Fellowship will be meeting for play on Monday October 5 and October 12 at 6:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall. All levels of play are welcome- even those with no experience at all! Snacks to be shared are always appreciated but not mandatory.

Mission Project: Tiny Home Work Day
The "tiny home" that we are building in partnership with Bonsack Baptist Church and Impact Missions is taking shape! We are so appreciative of everyone who has come out so far to help.  There is still a lot to be done, and we can use all of the help we can get!  We are scheduling another work day for Saturday, October 10 at 9 AM.  Everyone who can come help is invited to bring work gloves and safety goggles.

If you would like to help out that day, please let Pastor Mark know ASAP.  There are other work days that take place throughout the week, so also let Mark know if you are interested in working at other times and he can let you know what days work will be going on. You can contact Pastor Mark by emailing mofield@melrosebaptist.org or calling the church at 540-366-6631, ext. 2.

Family Promise Hosting
In partnership with Family Promise, we will be hosting families at the church October 11-17.  During that week, families will have dinner at the church and will be staying in several of our classrooms. This is a wonderful opportunity to serve families in our community that are facing homelessness and give them a safe and welcoming environment to stay with their children.

We are in need of volunteers to help us with the following:

• Setting up rooms from 4-6 PM on Sunday October 11, 7:30-9 AM on Sunday October 18
• Providing meals for around 15 from 6-8 PM
• Overnight hosts from 8 PM - 7 AM

If you would like to volunteer for one or more of these opportunities, please sign up HERE.

At this time, Family Promise has 3 families with a total of 11 people in their program. Those numbers can change at any time. Please be in prayer that God will use us and Family Promise to help these families find not only temporary shelter but permanent homes!

Click the link button below to view this month's Messenger. 

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts
Pastor Connie

Opening of the Word

Call to Worship
"Touching Heaven, Changing Earth"

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark 
 
Our Songs of Praise and Calling
"The Summons" v. 1, 3, 5
#356 "We've a Story to Tell to the Nations" v. 1, 3

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Macie Preston 

Offertory: "People Need the Lord"
Sanctuary Choir 

Sunday School Teacher and Leader Recognition

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Acts 17:1-9
Patty Huffman 

Sermon: “Turning the World Upside Down”
Pastor Mark 

Hymn of Invitation
#371 "Come, All Christians, Be Committed" 

SERVICE
Announcements  

Sending Song
#491 "Shine, Jesus, Shine" chorus only

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

RSVP Now- Homecoming Sunday
There really is no place like home! We are thrilled to invite you, your loved ones, and anyone who has been a part of our journey to this year's Homecoming celebration on Sunday, October 4 at 10 AM. Join us for a special homecoming service where we welcome back Rev. Larry Sprouse, be blessed by special music performances, and hear how God has been working at and through Melrose Baptist.

Following worship we are inviting all to join us for a special homecoming lunch. We are asking those coming to lunch to please RSVP by calling the church office at 540-366-6631 or going online HERE.

Come celebrate our shared history, the blessings of the past year, and the exciting future ahead! 

Update About Our Ministerial Staff Vacancy
We know you're concerned about our progress towards filling this position. Soon, you will be asked to complete a survey that will help us further identify the needs of our congregation as we move forward. In the interim, please share your ideas or suggestions with any of us so that we can include them in our discussions. Please continue to be in prayer for our committee, our congregation and the person or persons who will eventually be asked to join our staff. Thanks!

Your Personnel Committee,
Jeb Wallace
Luanne Meredith
Pat Dillon
Evelyn Harris
Debby Hill
Allen Journell

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts
Joan Batten

Opening of the Word
Jeanne Murphy 

Prelude
Judy Caudill 

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#511 "The Solid Rock" v. 1 & 3

Children’s Sermon
Abby Wilson
 
Our Songs of Praise and Hope
#505 "In Christ Alone" v. 1
#149 "Praise Him! Praise Him!" v. 1 & 2

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Jack Batten 

Offertory: "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)"
Amy Mofield, soloist, & Susan Matney 

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Psalm 145
Jeb Wallace

Sermon: “Die With the Old or Live With the New?”
Pastor Mark 

Hymn of Invitation
#386 "Brethren, We Have Met to Worship" v. 1 & 3

SERVICE
Announcements  

Sending Song
#96 "Great is Thy Faithfulness" v. 3

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Next Tuesday: CBF Virginia General Assembly
We are excited to be the host for the 2026 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia General Assembly on Tuesday, September 22 from 9 AM - 3 PM. This is a great opportunity to come worship with fellow disciples of Christ from all over Virginia, attend breakout sessions on a variety of topics, and hear more about what CBF Virginia is doing now and what they hope to do as they begin their 35th year of ministry. Representatives from different ministry partners will be on site throughout the day to share more about their work as well. Breakfast and lunch are provided for those who attend, and the whole thing is completely free! We encourage you to come for any and all of this special day.  

REGISTER HERE to join us for this special day!

If you would like to help out during the day as a greeter or in the hallway giving directions, please let Pastor Mark know. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity!

Happening Soon: Sunday School Teacher Appreciation Dinner
The Sunday School Directors invite all teachers, co-teachers, substitutes, outreach leaders, and spouses and plus ones to this year’s Sunday School Teacher Appreciation Banquet on Sunday, September 27 at 5 PM. This year’s banquet will feature a special performance by the “Let’s Dance Band” featuring Pastor Connie. Please RSVP by utilizing the flyer in your Sunday School classroom!

Update About Our Ministerial Staff Vacancy
We know you're concerned about our progress towards filling this position. Soon, you will be asked to complete a survey that will help us further identify the needs of our congregation as we move forward. In the interim, please share your ideas or suggestions with any of us so that we can include them in our discussions. Please continue to be in prayer for our committee, our congregation and the person or persons who will eventually be asked to join our staff. Thanks!

Your Personnel Committee,
Jeb Wallace
Luanne Meredith
Pat Dillon
Evelyn Harris
Debby Hill
Allen Journell

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Teresa Wallace

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
Pastor Connie

Responsive Reading & Response
#296 "He is Exalted"  

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#22 "We Will Glorify"
#18 "Glorify Thy Name"

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Mary Gilley 

Offertory: "The Heart of Worship"
Sanctuary Choir 
   
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Romans 14:6-12
Don Slone  

Sermon: “What Are You Doing Here?”
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
Deacon Ordination

Hymn of Invitation
#3 "Worthy of Worship" 

Announcements  

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Linda Altice  

Starting Saturday- Tiny Home Build!
On Saturday, September 12 at 10 AM, we will be kicking off the "tiny home" building project at Bonsack Baptist Church.  Over the course of the next several months, we will be partnering with Bonsack Baptist and other congregations and groups to build a tiny home that can be deployed in the aftermath of a disaster to provide immediate housing for an individual or family who has lost their home.  Whether you are a master craftsman or a willing heart and back, there will be a part you can help with in this project!  We will be asking volunteers to sign up for particular work days as the nature of the project allows for only a certain number of people to be working at any one time.  Future dates will be announced soon, but if you would like to sign up to work on September 12, please let Pastor Mark know ASAP.  Please be in prayer that God would bless our efforts and use this home as a place of rest and healing.

Register now for Creatives Night: Glass Painting!
We invite all ages to join us for a night of creativity and fellowship on Friday, September 18 at 5:30 PM for glass painting. This event is FREE and we will be providing all materials for this night including project ideas and will offer instruction on how to do various techniques. Grab a friend and join us for a night of painting fun!

We are requesting that if you are planning to come to please register on the church website HERE! Registering ahead of time allows us to properly plan enough materials for everyone!

Reminder: Business Meeting Next Week
This is a friendly reminder that this month's church business meeting will be held next Wednesday, September 16 at 6:15 PM in the Sanctuary.

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Judy Caudill

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
Pastor Mark 

Hymn Medley
#393 “The Family of God”
Chorus of #99 "Forever"

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Connie
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#102 "Think About His Love"
"We Praise You With Our Minds, O Lord"

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Stephanie Cook

Offertory
Judy Caudill 
   
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Luke 22:14-20
Pastor Connie  

Sermon: “Remembering Remembering”
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
Prayer of Confession

The Lord's Supper  

Hymn of Invitation: #405 "In Remembrance of Me"

Announcements
   
Sending Song
#389 "Blest Be the Tie" 

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Judy Caudill  

Office Closed Monday
This is a friendly reminder that the church office will be closed on Monday, September 7 in observance of Labor Day. On that day if you find yourself in need of pastoral care, please call the church office at 540-366-6631 and press 2 for Pastor Mark's extension. Leave him a message and he will get back to you as soon as possible.

Upcoming Service Project- Sign Up Now!
On Saturday, September 12 at 10 AM, we will be kicking off the "tiny home" building project at Bonsack Baptist Church.  Over the course of the next several months, we will be partnering with Bonsack Baptist and other congregations and groups to build a tiny home that can be deployed in the aftermath of a disaster to provide immediate housing for an individual or family who has lost their home.  Whether you are a master craftsman or a willing heart and back, there will be a part you can help with in this project!  We will be asking volunteers to sign up for particular work days as the nature of the project allows for only a certain number of people to be working at any one time.  Future dates will be announced soon, but if you would like to sign up to work on September 12, please let Pastor Mark know ASAP.  Please be in prayer that God would bless our efforts and use this home as a place of rest and healing.

Parking Lot Closure
Starting on Monday, September 7-Saturday, September 12, the back church parking lot and Peters Creek Road entrance will be closed for resurfacing. If you plan on visiting the church next week you must use the Northridge Lane entrance and utilize the front parking lot.

We need your thoughts and feedback! 
As we continue to try and keep up with technical advances and current trends, we are going to be evaluating our church communications and media. Through the month of September we will be collecting responses to a quick 10 question survey. All responses will be kept anonymous and will be used to help the church staff discern the future of how our church communicates with each other and our community.

CLICK HERE to take the survey now. Paper copies will be available on Sunday morning on the Welcome Table!

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts

Prelude
Susan Matney  

Opening of the Word

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
Pastor Connie

Hymn Medley
#393 “The Family of God”
#299 "Victory Chant" v. 1 & 2

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark 
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#68 "Holy, Holy, Holy" v. 1, 3, & 4
#72 "Holy Ground"

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Giles Gilley

Offertory: “Like a Dove”
Youth Ensemble, Jacob Barger, Sanctuary Choir, & Susan Matney 
   
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Exodus 3: 1-15
Don Slone  

Sermon: “A Unique Story”
Pastor Mark 

Hymn of Invitation
#67 "Holy is the Lord"

SERVICE
Announcements
   
Sending Song
#297 "Majesty"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Upcoming Service Project- Sign Up Now!
On Saturday, September 12 at 10 AM, we will be kicking off the "tiny home" building project at Bonsack Baptist Church.  Over the course of the next several months, we will be partnering with Bonsack Baptist and other congregations and groups to build a tiny home that can be deployed in the aftermath of a disaster to provide immediate housing for an individual or family who has lost their home.  Whether you are a master craftsman or a willing heart and back, there will be a part you can help with in this project!  We will be asking volunteers to sign up for particular work days as the nature of the project allows for only a certain number of people to be working at any one time.  Future dates will be announced soon, but if you would like to sign up to work on September 12, please let Pastor Mark know ASAP.  Please be in prayer that God would bless our efforts and use this home as a place of rest and healing.

Register Now: CBF Virginia General Assembly 
We are excited to be the host for the 2026 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia General Assembly on Tuesday, September 22 from 9 AM - 3 PM. This is a great opportunity to come worship with fellow disciples of Christ from all over Virginia, attend breakout sessions on a variety of topics, and hear more about what CBF Virginia is doing now and what they hope to do as they begin their 35th year of ministry.  Representatives from different ministry partners will be on site throughout the day to share more about their work as well. Breakfast and lunch are provided for those who attend, and the whole thing is completely free! I want to encourage you to come for any and all of this special day. If you would like to attend, please go HERE and register to attend. If you would like to help out during the day as a greeter or in the hallway giving directions, please let Pastor Mark know. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity!

Invite friends to Homecoming Sunday!
If you have a Homecoming invitation postcard that you would like the church to mail for you, please make sure you put the fully addressed postcard in the baskets to the right of the main Sanctuary entrance by Sunday, September 6.

Click the link button below to view this month's Messenger. 

WORSHIP     
Call to Center Hearts

Prelude
Susan Matney  

Opening of the Word
Willow Spencer  

FELLOWSHIP      
Greeting & Welcome 
Pastor Mark

Hymn Medley
#393 “The Family of God”
#655 “The Family Prayer Song”
# 276 “Alleluia”

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark
 
Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving 
#174 “I Gave My Life to Thee” v. 1, 4
#577 “My Tribute”

DISCIPLESHIP    
Offertory Prayer
Sandy Sloane 

Offertory: “There He Is” 
Evelyn Conner 
   
Pastoral Prayer 
Pastor Connie

As we are led in prayer in unison, the words to The Lord’s Prayer will be appear on screen from Matthew 6:9-11.

Scripture reading: Exodus 2:23-25
Chip Stephenson

Sermon: “Groaning”
Pastor Mark

Hymn of Invitation
#473 “Just a Closer Walk with Thee”

SERVICE
Announcements 
    
Sending Song
#562 “Love the Lord” v. 2

Benediction
Pastor Mark

Postlude
Susan Matney 

This Saturday: Red Cross Blood Drive
Did you know....?

• Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.
• A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood. This can be equal to 100 people donating!
• Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured; they can only come from volunteer donors.

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis—only the second in its history—as blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low.  We are doing our part to care for our community by hosting a Blood Drive this Saturday, August 22 from 10 AM-2 PM but WE NEED YOUR HELP! Our goal is to collect 18 units on Saturday and so far we only have 13 out of 35 appointment slots filled! Please schedule your appointment today!

Sign up to donate by:

• Registering online by going to the Red Cross website here: https://rcblood.org/4bQZ8Zg
• Contact the Red Cross at 1-855-210-1278
• Call Blair at the church office at 540-366-6631, ext. 5 and she can help make you an appointment over the phone. 
• Just show up during the drive! The Red Cross will take walk-ins so if you are not sure about what time you will be free, just come to the church anytime from 10 AM-2 PM and the Red Cross team will be happy to help you.

All those that give during the month of August will receive a $20 e-gift card to Amazon from the Red Cross.

MELROSE MUSIC MINISTRY CELEBRATION THIS COMING TUESDAY
This invitation goes out to-- all present and past members of the Melrose Sanctuary Choir and 2026 Cantata Choir, all present and past members of the Shalom Handbell Ensemble, all who play in our Melrose Valued Players Church Instrumental Group, all who sing and play in Bethesda in IBADA, all youth, children, and counselors who have gone to Eagle Eyrie music camp, and all youth who have played in our Youthfulness Drumming ensemble and all members of the Music and Worship Arts Committee:  Wow! What a gathering of giving and gifted people that IS!  Let’s celebrate the music ministry from January through August as we all get ready for what this fall will hold.  Please join us in welcoming some new friends who are singing with us for the Christmas Cantata as well!  The art and photography of many of our children and youth will also be on display.
 
We will gather on this coming Tuesday, August 25 at 5:30-7:30 PM for a drop-in Potluck meal and fellowship time.  If you are acquainted with dartball, please come show us how it’s done and join in. I am so very grateful for the planning and playing and singing that helps create the tapestry of grace that we see and we hear all year long. Let’s celebrate one another of all ages and welcome new friends to the journey as we head toward Advent and Christmas.
 
Bring your favorite dish or drink to share!

Questions?  Please reach out to Pastor Connie at 865-789-3483.

REGISTER NOW: Creatives Night!
Creatives Night resumes this month on Friday, August 28 at 5:30 PM. The month is an opportunity to paint and decorate your own wooden plant stand. We will show some fun techniques to make your stand uniquely yours! The cost is $10 per person and you can register on the church website HERE.

New to Creatives Night? Creatives Night is a monthly gathering where individuals from all walks of life are invited to join us as we celebrate the creativity that God blesses us all with while also enjoying the fellowship of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Upcoming: Songs and Sweets 
The last Songs and Sweets for this summer will be held on Sunday, August 30 at 6:30 PM in the Sanctuary. This is a great evening to spend time in song and praise together by singing your favorite hymns and then enjoying a sweet treat. Come with a list prepared of the songs you want to sing! No need to bring anything to share- the sweet treat is being provided this month! Just come as you are to sing and enjoy the sweet, sweet spirit as we gather! 

Listen Now: Grace Filled Conversations
Want to hear Pastor Mark's reflections on topics such as the evolution, the afterlife, salvation, and lament? Or, are you finding you need a space to pause and be in the presence of the Lord during your days?

LISTEN TO GRACE FILLED CONVERSATIONS NOW: https://bit.ly/4vYtW1C

WORSHIP   
Call to Center Hearts

Opening of the Word
Keelan Pineda

FELLOWSHIP
Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Connie

Hymn Medley: #393 “The Family of God”, #199 "O Come, All Ye Faithful", & #365 "Song for the Nations" v. 5

Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark

Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving: #361 "We Have Heard the Joyful Sound" v. 1 & 2, #358 "Share His Love" v. 1, #359 "People Need the Lord"

DISCIPLESHIP      
Offertory Prayer
Annie Richerson  

Offertory
Susan Matney

Impact Team Report & Slideshow  

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:47-50
Remi Dudley 

Sermon: "The Secret in the Net"
Pastor Mark 

Hymn of Invitation: "God is Calling Through this Whisper"

MISSIONS
Announcements

Sending Song: #356 "We've a Story to Tell" v. 4

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Coming Up: LAAF
We invite those who are 50 and older to this month's Living Abundantly After Fifty (LAAF) gathering on Tuesday, August 18. This month's meeting will be a feature presentation of an older LAAF dramatic performance that we promise will have you on the floor in laughter! All in attendance are welcome to join the group for lunch at the New Yorker Deli on Williamson Road. This month's Mission Action Project is to bring donations of books for children to benefit Book Net, a local mission that delivers books to children in need in Southwest Virginia.

Reminder: Business Meeting
This is a friendly reminder that our monthly business meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 19 at 6:15 PM in the Sanctuary.

Creatives Night resumes this month- register now! 
Creatives Night resumes this month on Friday, August 28 at 5:30 PM. The month is an opportunity to paint and decorate your own wooden plant stand. We will show some fun techniques to make your stand uniquely yours! The cost is $10 per person and you can register on the church website HERE.

New to Creatives Night? Creatives Night is a monthly gathering where individuals from all walks of life are invited to join us as we celebrate the creativity that God blesses us all with while also enjoying the fellowship of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Help us save lives!
There is an urgent call for blood donations as the nations enters into another supply shortage. To help meet this need we are hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Saturday, August 22 from 10 AM-2 PM. Our goal is 18 units and we need your help to meet that goal. All those that give during the month of August will receive a $20 e-gift card to Amazon from the Red Cross.

REGISTER NOW TO GIVE BLOOD HERE: https://rcblood.org/4bQZ8Zg

LISTEN NOW: GRACE FILLED CONVERSATIONS
We have launched a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." This season we are rotating between episodes that focus on questions that were asked as part of our "The Heart for the Not Yet" sermon series and episodes that offer meditative at home worship experiences.

Listen today by downloading the church app in the Google Play Store or App Store or go to the church website HERE.

WORSHIP   
Opening of the Word

Prelude
Teresa Wallace

FELLOWSHIP
Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Mark

Hymn Medley: #393 “The Family of God”, #8 "Bless the Lord, O My Soul"

Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark

Blessing of the Backpacks

Our Praise and Thanksgiving: #581 "The Sacrifice of Praise", #13 "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" v. 1

DISCIPLESHIP      
Offertory Prayer
Macie Preston 

Offertory: "The Goodness of God"
Kathryn Pankey, solo, & Susan Matney, piano

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:45-46
Jeb Wallace

Sermon: "The Secret in the Pearl"
Pastor Mark 

Hymn of Invitation: #506 "In Christ Alone"

SERVICE
Announcements

Sending Song: #375 "Song for the Nations" v. 5

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

"Through Jesus, then, let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips giving thanks to His Name. " – Hebrews 13:15 

Volunteers Needed: Mission Event at Burlington Elementary 
We are partnering with Genesis United Methodist Church to help provide a hot dog dinner on Tuesday, August 11 for Burlington Elementary School's Back to School Night.  We will be serving from 5-7 PM that evening and will also need some help before 5 PM with set up and cooking. Please pray that this night will be an opportunity to build new relationships with our neighbors and invite others to church!

Help us save lives!
There is an urgent call for blood donations as the nations enters into another supply shortage. To help meet this need we are hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Saturday, August 22 from 10 AM-2 PM. Our goal is 18 units and we need your help to meet that goal. All those that give during the month of August will receive a $20 e-gift card to Amazon from the Red Cross.

REGISTER NOW TO GIVE BLOOD HERE: https://rcblood.org/4bQZ8Zg

MelroseU- Bible Journaling LIVE Recap
Last month we began hosting weekly live Bible Journaling instructional sessions on the Melrose Creatives Facebook group. To make the videos more accessible, we have uploaded all of the videos to the MelroseU webpage on the church website. We encourage you to check out the video series as it demonstrates various techniques to creatively interact with God's Word.

WATCH THEM NOW BY GOING HERE!

LISTEN NOW: GRACE FILLED CONVERSATIONS
We have launched a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." This season we are rotating between episodes that focus on questions that were asked as part of our "The Heart for the Not Yet" sermon series and episodes that offer meditative at home worship experiences.

Listen today by downloading the church app in the Google Play Store or App Store or go to the church website HERE.

WORSHIP   
Call to Worship

Prelude
Judy Caudill 

Opening of the Word

FELLOWSHIP
Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Connie and Pastor Trice 

Hymn Medley: #393 “The Family of God”, "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands", #365 "Song for the Nations"

Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark

Celebration of Ibada Ministry

Our Praise and Thanksgiving: "God is so good", #393 "The Family of God"

DISCIPLESHIP      
Offertory Prayer
Stephanie Cook 

Offertory: "God So Loved the World"
Amy Mofield, solo, Pastor Connie, ASL, and Susan Matney, piano

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:44
Pascal Kasinga and Pastor Trice

Sermon: "The Secret in the Field"
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
The Lord's Supper
  
Announcements

Sending Song: #389 "Blest Be the Tie"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Volunteers Needed: Mission Event at Burlington Elementary
We are partnering with Genesis United Methodist Church to help provide a hot dog dinner on Tuesday, August 11 for Burlington Elementary School's Back to School Night.  We will be serving from 5-7 PM that evening and will also need some help before 5 PM with set up and cooking.  If you would like to volunteer to help with this great mission outreach partnership, please contact Pastor Mark and let him know!

RSVP Now: Single Seniors Banquet
Your Melrose Baptist Church family warmly invites those that are widowed, divorced, or navigating their golden years as a single person to our Single Seniors Banquet on Saturday, August 8, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Hosted by the Deacon Fellowship, this event will feature a lighthearted skit based off of "Gilligan's Island", a delicious complimentary meal, and a time of connection with old and new friends. If you are interested or planning to attend, please RSVP by calling the church office at 540-366-6631 by Wednesday, August 5.

Help us save lives!
There is an urgent call for blood donations as the nations enters into another supply shortage. To help meet this need we are hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Saturday, August 22 from 10 AM-2 PM. Our goal is 18 units and we need your help to meet that goal. All those that give during the month of August will receive a $20 e-gift card to Amazon from the Red Cross.

REGISTER NOW TO GIVE BLOOD HERE: https://rcblood.org/4bQZ8Zg

LISTEN NOW: GRACE FILLED CONVERSATIONS
We have launched a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." This season we are rotating between episodes that focus on questions that were asked as part of our "The Heart for the Not Yet" sermon series and episodes that offer meditative at home worship experiences.

Listen today by downloading the church app in the Google Play Store or App Store or go to the church website HERE.

Click the link button below to view this month's Messenger. 

AS WE GATHER    
Opening of the Word
Jan Jessee

Prelude
Susan Matney

Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Connie

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God” & #26 "Blessed Be Your Name"

AS WE GUIDE     
Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark

Sunday School Promotion Recognition

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #379 "Bring Ye All the Tithes" & #98 "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" v. 1,2

Offertory Prayer
Sheri Tickle 

Offertory
Susan Matney

Song of Testimony: #619 "Sunshine in My Soul"
Just As I Am Choir 

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Call to Scripture: Hymn of the Month- "Seek Ye First" v. 3

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:33

Sermon: "The Secret in the Bread"
Pastor Mark 

An Invitation: #522 "In His Time"

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Sending Song: Hymn of the Month- "Seek Ye First" v. 1

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"He told them another parable, saying "The Kingdom of heaven is like hametz, or leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour until it was all leavened."
- Matthew 13:33

Mark Your Calendars: Songs and Sweets 
Let us join our voices together in song and praise this Sunday at 6:30 PM for Songs and Sweets. Afterwards everyone will go into the Fellowship Hall and enjoy a sweet treat together!

LISTEN NOW: GRACE FILLED CONVERSATIONS
We have launched a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." This season we are rotating between episodes that focus on questions that were asked as part of our "The Heart for the Not Yet" sermon series and episodes that offer meditative at home worship experiences.

Listen today by downloading the church app in the Google Play Store or App Store or go to the church website HERE.

Everyone is invited- Family Movie Night
Come and join us for a night of family fun! We will be showing the 1971 version of "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" in the church Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, July 29 from 6-8 PM. Candy, popcorn, and drinks will be provided! Please bring your own lawn chair, picnic blanket, or sleeping bag(s) to use to enjoy the movie. This is a FREE event and all are welcome so feel free to invite friends! Also, we understand this might be during dinner time so please feel free to bring your own food to enjoy during the movie.

AS WE GATHER    
Call to Center Hearts
Timmy Markham

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Judy Caudill

Greeting and Welcome
Gedeon Kasinga

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God” & #495 "There Shall Be Showers of Blessing"

AS WE GUIDE     
Music and Worship Arts Camp Report

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #524 "Seek Ye First"

Offertory Prayer
Giles Gilley

Offertory
Susan Matney

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Connie

Introduction of Speaker

Anticipating the Word: "Word of God, Speak/Showers of Blessing"
Music and Worship Arts Campers 

Scripture Reading: Genesis 6:13-22
Pastor Connie 

Sermon: "How to Build an Ark"
Rev. John Saunders

An Invitation: #454 "My Faith Has Found a Resting Place" 

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Sending Song: #569 "The Joy of the Lord" v. 3

Benediction
Pastor Connie 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"Everyone who thirsts, come to my water...Seek the Lord while He may be found, call on Him while He is near." - Isaiah 55:1, 6

School Supply drive- deadline for donations is July 19!
Our mission center partners, Keystone Community Center and Friendship House Roanoke, have started preparing for the upcoming school year by collecting school supplies and backpacks for local students. Keystone Community Center is collecting various school supplies from the list below. Friendship House Roanoke is ONLY collecting good quality backpacks this year and have provided a wish list from Amazon HERE.

Donations can be placed in the collection bin located in the Fellowship Hall by Sunday, July 19. Backpacks for Friendship House can be ordered online and sent directly to them. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pat Dillon or Karen Simmons.
 
Supply List

• Wide ruled notebook paper
• Small packs of tissues 
• Bottles of glue or glue sticks 
• Highlighters 
• Spiral bound notebooks- 3 and 5 subject 
• Wide rule composition notebooks
• Pocket and plain folders 
• Markers 
• Colored pencils 
• Pencil pouches/boxes 
• Crayola crayons- 8 color packs 
• Scissors with cover and larger sizes for older kids 
• Index cards
• Graph paper 
• Pencil sharpeners 
• Preschool writing tablets 
• 3 ring binders- 2, 3, & 4 inch

Next Tuesday: Living Abundantly After Fifty (LAAF)
Those 50 and older are invited to this month's LAAF (Living Abundantly After Fifty) gathering on Tuesday, July 21 at 10 AM. This month's meeting will feature a performance by the Joe Bass 40 Years Plus Band. Hamburgers are being provided for lunch but those planning to attend are asked to bring a side dish to share. The Mission Action Project for the month is going to be packing bags for local veterans. Please bring donations of the following for the bags: individual packs of doughnuts, Life Savers, and Little Bites mini muffins.

Please join us- Sweet Fellowship and Promotion Sunday! 
The Sunday School Directors invite everyone to join them for Sweet Fellowship on Sunday, July 26 at 8:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. This is a great way to start your Sunday with coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts while enjoying the fellowship of others. Then join us for worship at 10:45 AM as we celebrate our children and youth who are continuing in their faith journey!

Everyone is invited- Family Movie Night
Come and join us for a night of family fun! We will be showing the 1971 classic "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" in the church Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, July 29 from 6-8 PM. Candy and popcorn will be available for those in attendance! Please bring your own lawn chair, picnic blanket, or sleeping bag(s) to use to enjoy the movie. This is a FREE event and all are welcome. so feel free to invite friends, family members, and neighbors! Also, we understand this might be during dinner time for some so please feel free to bring your own food to enjoy during the movie.

AS WE GATHER    
Call to Center Hearts
Remi Dudley

Opening of the Word
Pat Tickle

Prelude: "Improvisational Praise"
Pascal Kasinga and Pastor Connie

Greeting and Welcome
Jacob Barger

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God”

AS WE GUIDE     
Children's Sermon
Heather Dudley

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #524 "Seek Ye First"

Offertory Prayer
Kiele Dudley

Offertory
Susan Matney

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:31-32
Benjamin Kasinga

Sermon: "The Secret in the Seed"
Pastor Mark 

An Invitation: #456 "How Firm a Foundation"

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Commissioning of Counselors and Campers to Music and Worship Arts Camp

Sending Song: #618 "I've Got Peace Like a River" v. 1

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"For we know that if the tent, our earthly home, is torn down, we have a building from God—a home not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." - 2 Corinthians 5:1

Reminder: Business Meeting Next Week
This is a friendly reminder that next Wednesday, July 15 at 6:15 PM we will be holding this month's church Business Meeting in the Sanctuary.

Listen Now: Grace Filled Conversations 
This week we launched a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." We invite you to listen to the first episode where Pastor Mark discusses the topic of evolution and presents his insights into the idea of evolution within Christianity. Listen today by downloading the church app in the Google Play Store or App Store or go to the church website HERE.

School Supply drive- deadline for donations is July 19!
Our mission center partners, Keystone Community Center and Friendship House Roanoke, have started preparing for the upcoming school year by collecting school supplies and backpacks for local students. Keystone Community Center is collecting various school supplies from the list below. Friendship House Roanoke is ONLY collecting good quality backpacks this year and have provided a wish list from Amazon HERE.

Donations can be placed in the collection bin located in the Fellowship Hall by Sunday, July 19. Backpacks for Friendship House can be ordered online and sent directly to them. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pat Dillon or Karen Simmons.
 
Supply List

• Wide ruled notebook paper
• Small packs of tissues 
• Bottles of glue or glue sticks 
• Highlighters 
• Spiral bound notebooks- 3 and 5 subject 
• Wide rule composition notebooks
• Pocket and plain folders 
• Markers 
• Colored pencils 
• Pencil pouches/boxes 
• Crayola crayons- 8 color packs 
• Scissors with cover and larger sizes for older kids 
• Index cards
• Graph paper 
• Pencil sharpeners 
• Preschool writing tablets 
• 3 ring binders- 2, 3, & 4 inch

I write these words at the start of a significant week in the history of the United States of America – the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the birth of an independent nation called America. Over the years, I have discovered a great interest in reading about the moments and people that shaped the foundations of our nation. As I think about our national “birthday”, the thought I continue to return to is that what makes the celebration so special is that America represented a great experiment. Several of the ideas that would become the pillars of the American experience were, in their time, radical and risky. Perhaps chief among those ideas was the belief that America would be a land of religious liberty, a land where faith was not reinforced or required by the state and its laws. Even in the colonial era, this was not often the reality. Though several of the colonies were established in part by religious groups that had come to America to gain freedom from oppression in Europe, laws were passed by local and colonial legislators that required support of and/or loyalty to a particular denomination of faith, often times under pain of fines and imprisonment.

While certainly not the only voice, Baptists in America were among the loudest voices calling on the new nation that was being formed to reject tying together the forces of the state and the power of religion. Isaac Backus, a New England Baptist pastor, had witnessed the imprisonment of his mother and brother for falling behind on paying the state taxes that
supported the Congregational Church. When Massachusetts adopted a state constitution that would allow the state to apply a tax for the specific purpose of supporting Protestant ministers, Backus tried to try to convince the legislators and the people to remove the troublesome article, saying, “It asserts a right in the people of this State to make and execute laws about the worship of God, directly contrary to the truth which assures us
that we have but ONE LAWGIVER in such affairs.” Here in Virginia, John Leland, a traveling Baptist evangelist, made the case for full religious liberty, saying, “Every man must give an
account of himself to God, and therefore every man ought to be at liberty to serve God in a way that he can best reconcile to his conscience. … Government has no more to do with the religious opinions of men, than it has with the principles of mathematics. Let every man speak freely without fear, maintain the principles that he believes, worship according
to his own faith, either one God, three Gods, no God, or twenty Gods; and let government protect him in so doing.” Backus and Leland were just a few of the Baptist voices crying out for the new “land of the free” to be truly free in matters of faith.

The freedom of religion that is part of the American experience was not necessarily self-evident, as our early history too often shows. What is truly fascinating is that often times these conversations and debates were not between people of faith and atheists, but, such as in the case of Isaac Backus and his family, between one group of Christians and another group of Christians. That is why I find it fascinating that, even as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, I come across Christian leaders and speakers and influences who see fault in the separation of church and state now. Like many religious leaders in the time of Backus and Leland, they believe that Christianity cannot survive in America without state support. It seems there is still a need for the historical Baptist witness that reminds us that Christ did not announce His Kingdom through the decrees of the Roman emperor or the laws of the Herods. Instead, Christ fished with disciples and talked with women at wells and welcomed children and healed the sick and dined with tax collectors. Christ nurtured faith not through the powers of the state but the incarnation of love and grace and mercy and righteousness.

As our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom and independence, let us also celebrate the freedom we have in Christ Jesus to call upon the Lord and to respond to His saving work. Let us nurture the freedom within each soul to encounter the gospel and respond not by force of will but by the choice to love as they have been so loved. This is the heritage and history that defines us and the commission that calls us forward.

- Pastor Mark

AS WE GATHER    
Call to Center Hearts
Alan Malloy

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Susan Matney 

Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Mark 

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God” & #383 "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord" v. 1

AS WE GUIDE     
Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark 

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #524 "Seek Ye First"

Offertory Prayer
Mary Gilley 

Offertory
Susan Matney

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Message in Music: "Bow the Knee"
Amy Mofield 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Don Slone 

Sermon: "The Secret in the Weeds"
Pastor Mark 

The Lord's Supper

An Invitation: #83 "Be Thou My Vision"

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Sending Song: Chorus of #491 "Shine, Jesus, Shine" 

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."
- Matthew 6:33

Coming Soon: NEW Season of Church Podcast 
During our previous sermon series, "The Heart for the Not Yet", we received some questions that we decided needed to be answered. Starting on Thursday, July 9 we are launching a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." The topics include dinosaurs, death, and the afterlife. If you are interested in hearing more about these topics, download the church app today to listen on July 9 or go to the church website here.

Wednesday Night Activities Resuming

• Wednesday Evening Dinner will be at 5:15 PM and we are still requesting that you make a reservation by going to the church website here or by calling the church office. 
• Youth on Mission will be resuming at 6 PM that night. This is a great mid-week opportunity for youth to have a time of Bible study and fellowship.
• Prayer Meeting will resume at 6:15 PM in the Sanctuary.

School Supply drive- deadline for donations is July 19!
Our mission center partners, Keystone Community Center and Friendship House Roanoke, have started preparing for the upcoming school year by collecting school supplies and backpacks for local students. Keystone Community Center is collecting various school supplies from the list below. Friendship House Roanoke is ONLY collecting good quality backpacks this year and have provided a wish list from Amazon HERE.

Donations can be placed in the collection bin located in the Fellowship Hall by Sunday, July 19. Backpacks for Friendship House can be ordered online and sent directly to them. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pat Dillon or Karen Simmons.
 
Supply List

• Wide ruled notebook paper
• Small packs of tissues 
• Bottles of glue or glue sticks 
• Highlighters 
• Spiral bound notebooks- 3 and 5 subject 
• Wide rule composition notebooks
• Pocket and plain folders 
• Markers 
• Colored pencils 
• Pencil pouches/boxes 
• Crayola crayons- 8 color packs 
• Scissors with cover and larger sizes for older kids 
• Index cards
• Graph paper 
• Pencil sharpeners 
• Preschool writing tablets 
• 3 ring binders- 2, 3, & 4 inch

Click the link button below to view this month's Messenger. 

AS WE GATHER    
Call to Center Hearts
Pastor Connie

Opening of the Word
Eileen Karakas

Prelude
Susan Matney 

Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Connie

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God” & #636 "Come, Ye Thankful People Come"

AS WE GUIDE     
Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark 

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #98 "Come, Thou Fount"

Offertory Prayer
Pat Tickle 

Offertory
Susan Matney

Testimony in Song- Just As I Am Choir: #163 "Wonderful Grace of Jesus"

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:1-9,18-23
Darcy Havens 

Sermon: "The Secret in the Soil"
Pastor Mark 

An Invitation: #611 "On Jordan's Stormy Banks"

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Sending Song: #611 Chorus of "On Jordan's Stormy Banks"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"The sower sows the Word."- Mark 4:14

Deacon Nominations
We are extending Deacon nominations one more week. Please make your nomination by picking up one of the paper ballots from an Usher when entering the Sanctuary before worship. Place your filled out ballot in the offering plate. You may also make your nomination online by going HERE.

Coming Soon: NEW Season of Church Podcast 
During our previous sermon series, "The Heart for the Not Yet", we received some questions that we decided needed to be answered. Starting on Thursday, July 9 we are launching a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." The topics include dinosaurs, death, and the afterlife. If you are interested in hearing more about these topics, download the church app today to listen on July 9 or go to the church website here.

Upcoming: Senior Trip to Wohlfahrt House 
The seniors are taking a trip on Friday, July 24 to Wohlfahrt House in Wytheville, VA to see a showing of "Church Basement Ladies." The cost of the trip is $65 per person and payment must be received by the church office to reserve your spot on the bus!

Office Closed Next Friday
Please note that the church office will be closed next Friday, July 3 in observance of Independence Day.

AS WE GATHER    
Call to Center Hearts
Pastor Connie

Prelude
Susan Matney 

Opening of the Word
Dom Havens

Greeting and Welcome
Pastor Connie

Fellowship Song: #393 “The Family of God” & #518 "My Life is in You"

AS WE GUIDE     
Children's Sermon
Pastor Mark 

AS WE GIVE     
Hymn of the Month: #98 "Come, Thou Fount"

Offertory Prayer
Pastor Connie 

Offertory: #89 "Shine on Us"
Justin Broughman, guitar, Jacob Barger, trombone, Donna Tobey, piano, & Susan Matney, organ

Just As I Am Choir: "Bringing in the Sheaves"

AS WE GROW  
Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:10-17, 51-52
Patty Huffman 

Sermon: "Do We Understand the Secret?"
Pastor Mark 

An Invitation: #143 "You Are My All in All"

AS WE GO   
Announcements

Sending Song: #611 Chorus of "On Jordan's Stormy Banks"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude: #143 "You Are My All in All"
Susan Matney 

Verse of the Week
"I assure you, many prophets and godly people have longed to see and hear what you have seen and heard, but they could not." - Matthew 13:17

Songs & Sweets
Come and join us for a night of praise and fellowship on Sunday, June 28 at 6:30 PM! After singing together everyone will go to the Fellowship Hall to enjoy a sweet treat- please bring either cookies or fruit to share.

Coming Soon: NEW Season of Church Podcast
During our previous sermon series, "The Heart for the Not Yet", we received some questions that we decided needed to be answered. Starting on Thursday, July 9 we are launching a new season of our church podcast, "Grace Filled Conversations." The topics include dinosaurs, death, and evil. If you are interested in hearing more about these topics, download the church app today to listen on July 9 or go to the church website here.

Upcoming: Senior Trip to Wohlfahrt House 
The seniors are taking a trip on Friday, July 24 to Wohlfahrt House in Wytheville, VA to see a showing of "Church Basement Ladies." The cost of the trip is $65 per person and payment must be received by the church office to reserve your spot on the bus!