The Baptist Men's Ministry invite everyone to start their morning with a home-cooked breakfast this Sunday, November 8 at 8:30 AM. This is a wonderful way to start your morning before Sunday School or Sunday morning worship! We will be honoring our veterans. Come join us! 

Our mission partners Rescue Mission of the Roanoke Valley, Keystone Community Center, and Friendship House Roanoke need our help as they prepare to help those in need.

Here is how you can help:
1) Scan the attached graphic from the Rescue Mission and see which of their needs you can help meet. If you are able to help or have any questions, please reach out to Karen Mullins!

2) The Melrose WMU groups are collecting food for Keystone Community Center and Friendship House for their Thanksgiving food boxes. A full list of needed items can be found on the church website HERE.

The Sunday School Leadership invites all to join them for a Sweet Fellowship on Sunday, November 15 at 8:30 AM. This is a fun time of coffee, doughnuts, and conversation before Sunday School and Sunday morning worship!

The Personnel Committee would like to ask that you please complete a brief survey to help them identify qualities and characteristics that would be important considerations in the hiring of a new associate minister. You can complete the survey online or pick up a paper copy of the survey from the Welcome Table outside of the Sanctuary. Paper surveys can be returned to the little church in the hallway outside of the Sanctuary. The Personnel Committee asks that all surveys be completed by November 8. Thank you for your time and consideration of these questions!

The majority of the Melrose staff will be away next week at the BGAV Annual Meeting. Due to that the office hours on Monday-Wednesday will be from 8:30 AM-1 PM.

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts 

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Susan Matney

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#390 "Bind Us Together"

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark  

Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#105 "Grace Greater than Our Sin"
#104 "Amazing Grace" v. 1

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer

Offertory: "Christ Be Our Light"
Susan Matney

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: Amos 5:18-24
Jeb Wallace

Sermon
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
Hymn of Invitation
#529 "Change My Heart, O God"

Announcements  

Sending Song
#667 "As We Go"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." - Psalm 51:10

List of needed items:
Bagged rice (not instant)
Bags of beans
Oil
Canned fruit
Canned veggies- corn, green beans
Pasta sauce
Cereal
Oatmeal
Flour
Sugar
Evaporated milk
UHT milk
Non-gelatin dessert mix
Boxes of instant potatoes
Pancake mix (just add water)
Pancake syrup
Dish-washing liquid
Instant Jello (not pudding)
Saltine crackers
Peanut butter (plastic jar)
Jelly (plastic jar)
Granulated sugar
Aluminum foil
Cans of soup
Turkey or chicken gravy mix
Chicken or turkey flavored stuffing
Laundry detergent
Instant hot chocolate 

This Sunday, November 1, we will celebrate All Saints Day as a church during worship at 10:45 AM. On this day, as in many other Christian churches, we will remember those fellow church members who have gone on to be with the Lord in Heaven in the last year as well as other family members and friends we may be remembering on this day. The point of All Saints Day is not to remember that someone died; it is to remember the impact and influence their life had and continues to have on our lives. It is also a call to consider that we are given gifts and opportunities to be a blessing to others in our lives. We are called to be saints!

This is also a friendly reminder to set your clock back on hour Saturday night! We would hate for you to not be on time for church!

Dartball Fellowship will only be meeting for play once this month on Monday, November 2 at 6:30 PM. As always, all levels of play are welcome as well as snacks to share!

Melrose's dedicated team of volunteers have finished putting together the boxes for Operation Christmas Child, and anyone is welcome to pick up their boxes! Boxes can be found on the table outside the Sanctuary. Collection Sunday for packed boxes will be on Sunday, November 22!

The Personnel Committee would like to ask that you please complete a brief survey to help them identify qualities and characteristics that would be important considerations in the hiring of a new associate minister. You can complete the survey online or pick up a paper copy of the survey from the Welcome Table outside of the Sanctuary. Paper surveys can be returned to the little church in the hallway outside of the Sanctuary. The Personnel Committee asks that all surveys be completed by November 8. Thank you for your time and consideration of these questions!

Pastor Mark has been summoned to federal jury service for the period of November 2, 2026 to February 26, 2027. If called to serve on a jury, he may need to be out of the office for extended periods of time, and will also be limited as to when he can receive or respond to phone calls or requests for assistance. During this season, if you need assistance, we ask that you please call the church office (540-366-6631) instead of calling Mark. Thanks!

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts
Pastor Mark

Opening of the Word

Prelude
Teresa Wallace

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#308 "Glorious Is Thy Name" v. 2

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark  

Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#595 "For All the Saints" v. 1, 5

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Pat Tickle 

Offertory: "Grace"
Sanctuary Choir 

All Saints' Day Remembrance

Song of Remembrance
#598 "Find Us Faithful"

Prayers of the People
Tom Tickle 

Scripture Reading: Revelation 7:9-17
Don Slone

Sermon: "Practicing for the Throne Room"
Pastor Mark 

The Lord's Supper

SERVICE
Hymn of Invitation
#276 "Alleluia" 

Announcements  

Sending Song
#389 "Blest Be the Tie"

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

 "…Since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also get rid of every weight and entangling sin. Let us run with endurance the race set before us…"
- Hebrews 12:1 

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

WORSHIP    
Call to Center Hearts
Heather Dudley

Opening of the Word
Melissa and Chabelo Pineda 

Prelude: "Agnus Dei (Lamb of God)"
Sanctuary Choir and Keelan and Kiele Dudley, handbells 

FELLOWSHIP     
Greeting & Welcome
#393 "The Family of God"
#555 "I Love You Lord" v. 1

Children’s Sermon
Pastor Mark  

Our Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving
#523 "Here Am I, Send Me" 

DISCIPLESHIP     
Offertory Prayer
Jack Batten 

Offertory: "God in This City"
Amy Mofield, soloist

Congregational Response
#537 "Lord, Here Am I" v. 1

Pastoral Prayer
Pastor Mark 

Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
Patty Huffman

Sermon: "What Does Jesus Look Like Through Me?"
Pastor Mark 

SERVICE
Hymn of Invitation
#363 "Let Others See Jesus in You" 

Announcements  

Sending Song
Chorus of #364 "Send the Light" 

Benediction
Pastor Mark 

Postlude
Susan Matney 

"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
- Isaiah 6:8

This Sunday, October 25 from 4-6 PM we welcome our church family and community to join us for our Fall Festival. This is one of our largest and most fun family events of the year!

Things to do during the event:

• Trick-or-Treating
• FREE hot dog meal
• Games
• Face Painting
• Crafts
• All Saints Remembrance 

Sunday School Decorating Competition
All of our Sunday School classes who are planning to participate on Sunday and hand out candy are encouraged to decorate their room for a friendly little competition. The Melrose Youth will be walking around looking at all of the rooms and deciding which one is the best decorated. The winner will receive a ribbon to display in their Sunday School classroom. Please remember that classes are being asked to supply their own candy this year but we will have extra candy on hand in case a class' supply is depleted.

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 continuing their collection for new school supplies and backpacks for their pen pals in Honduras! While all school supplies are appreciated, the biggest need is backpacks. The CIA had a goal to collect 50 backpacks for their friends, and they are halfway there! All donations can be placed in the bin in the hallway outside the Sanctuary. The last day for donations is October 27!

Melrose's dedicated team of volunteers have finished putting together the boxes for Operation Christmas Child, and anyone is welcome to pick up their boxes! Boxes can be found on the table outside the Sanctuary. Collection Sunday for packed boxes will be on Sunday, November 22!

The Personnel Committee would like to ask that you please complete a brief survey to help them identify qualities and characteristics that would be important considerations in the hiring of a new associate minister. You can complete the survey online or pick up a paper copy of the survey from the Welcome Table outside of the Sanctuary. Paper surveys can be returned to the little church in the hallway outside of the Sanctuary. The Personnel Committee asks that all surveys be completed by November 8. Thank you for your time and consideration of these questions!

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.