1st sunday after christmas december 28,...
TRANSCRIPT
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11:00 a.m.
1st Sunday after Christmas
Welcome Janice Allen
Prelude Brenda Fleeman
Bringing in the Light Acolytes
Scripture Reading Debbie Huckaby
Matthew 2:1-12 (pg. 681)
Invocation Debbie Huckaby
Opening Hymn UMH 220
Angels From the Realms of Glory
*Affirmation of Faith UMH 881
*Gloria Patri UMH 70
Greeting/Registration of Worshippers Rev. Frank Bernat
Prayer Concerns/Lord’s Prayer Debbie Huckaby
*Offertory Hymn UMH 245
The First Noel
*Offertory Prayer Rev. Bernat
Offertory Special Music Shelli Craig
Mary Did You Know
*Doxology UMH 95
Homily Rev. Bernat
“Wise Men from the East”
Matthew 2:1-12 (pg. 681)
*Closing Hymn UMH 251
Go, Tell It on the Mountain
*Benediction Rev. Bernat
*Choral Benediction UMH 672
God Be with You ‘till We Meet Again (vs. 1)
Postlude Mrs. Fleeman
ALTAR PRAYER
The altar is open for prayer before, during and after
the 11:00 Traditional service. Debbie Huckaby, our
Pastor of Congregational Care, will be available near
the altar should you want someone to pray with you.
ALTAR FLOWERS
The flowers in the Narthex are in loving memory of
Harold Harrison and his parents, Luther and Susie
Harrison. They have been given by Brian, Kelley,
Anne Marie, and Jay Tison.
December 28, 2014
Wise Men from the East Matthew 2:1-12
“In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. And the Lord delivered Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, along with some of the articles from the temple of God. These he carried off to the temple of his god in Babylonia and put in the treasure house of his god. Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials to bring into the king’s service some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility – young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the kings place. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.” - Daniel 1:1-4
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” - Micah 5:2
I. Wise Men & Women Still _____________________.
“A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.” - Numbers 24:7
II. Wise Men & Women ________________________.
“Where is he who is born king of the Jews?” - Matthew 2:2a
III. Wise Men & Women Still ____________________.
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We have seen his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
- Matthew 2:2
“And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
“So here is what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life – your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking around life – and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for Him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out.” - Romans 12:1-2 (MSG)
Answer key: Seek Him; Serve Him; Worship Him
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Prelude Cathy Murch
Greeting Debbie Huckaby
Invocation Debbie Huckaby
*Hymn UMH 245
The First Noel
Praise and Thanksgiving Debbie Huckaby
Pastoral Prayer Debbie Huckaby
Offering/Offertory Cathy Murch
Morning Message Debbie Huckaby
“Wise Men from the East”
Matthew 2:1-12 (pg. 681)
Sacrament of Holy Communion UMH 12
Rev. Frank Bernat
*Benediction Debbie Huckaby
* Please stand
Ushers/Greeters
Shirley Alcorn
Ed Novak
Carol Ward
Welcome! At Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, we are a
community of faith where people meet for a life-changing
encounter with God. Our faith community loves to sing to God
and loves to sing about God. As we join together as one body
with one voice, we invite you to open your hearts and minds to
all that God has in store for you.
To learn more about Bethlehem First United Methodist Church
and discover how you can get connected, visit our website at
www.bigwhitechurch.com.
Today’s Message:
“The Mystery of Christ” | Ephesians 3:1-12
Matt Parker @mattparker21
Welcome Music 9:30 Band
Sweet Melisa
Welcome Wanda Doster
We Pray Wanda Doster
We Worship 9:30 Band
We Three Kings
And All the People Said Amen
Nothing But the Blood
We Give 9:30 Band
Away in a Manger
We Hear Rev. Bernat
“Wise Men from the East”
Matthew 2:1-12
We Respond & Go 9:30 Band
Joy to the World
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December 28, 2014
Church Office Will Be Closed │Untill January 2 The church office will be closed until Friday, January 2nd. Should you have an
emergency or need to speak to someone, please contact one of our Clergy:
Rev. Frank Bernat, Senior Pastor, 770-362-7998
Rev. Matt Parker, Associate Pastor, 404-538-2567
Rev. Michele May, Pastor of Discipleship & Families, 706-201-5063
Debbie Huckaby, Pastor of Congregation Care, 706-296-0665
End of Year Giving │December 31 In the course of year-end tax planning, you may find yourself considering special one-
time donations. There is a growing trend among donors to make contributions to
their favorite organizations online during the final week of the year. As you
contemplate year-end gifts, please keep the church in mind. We welcome your
donations through the giving page on the church website, www.bigwhitechurch.com/
giving.
Per IRS regulations, giving must be postmarked or in the church office by December
31 in order to be tax deductible in 2014. To help easily facilitate year-end giving,
the church office will be open on December 31 from 10:00 AM—2:00 PM.
Ladies Bible Study │January 6 The L.I.G.H.T. Bible Study, Living In God’s Hope and Truth, will resume on Tuesday,
January 6th, at 9:30 in the conference room (# 114). From January 6th through
February 10th, we will take these six-weeks before Valentine’s Day to study and
discuss marriage. All ladies are invited to attend.
Wednesday Night Live Resumes │January 7
5:30 p.m. WNL Fellowship Meal
Adult/Youth @ $6.00 │Children (4-12) @ $5.00 │Family @ $20
Salad Bar Only @ $4.00
6:10 p.m. 2nd-4th Grade Choir (Chapel) │PreK-1st Grade Choir (108)
5th/6th Grade Bridge (129) │ 6th Grade Confirmation Class (127)
6:30 p.m. Youth Small Group Bible Studies (126, 130, 131)
6:50 p.m. PreK-4th Grade Mission Focus (111)
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7:00 p.m. Church 101 is for people new to Christianity, UMC, or Bethlehem First
UMC, or those needing a review of the basic terms of Christianity, basic
beliefs of UMC, or the basic ministry of BFUMC, this class is for you!
We will cover terms, structure and practices of our faith and introduce
participants to a broader understanding of the CHURCH, United
Methodism, and BFUMC (local).
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. │Room 125│Facilitated by Debbie Huckaby.
Adult Choir (119)
Women’s Bible Study is a weekly time for Gals Rejoicing In The Savior.
Join us as we continue the study of Unglued by Lysa TerKeurst. God
gave us emotions to experience life, not destroy it! What do we do
with these raw emotions? Is it really possible to make emotions work
for us instead of against us? Unglued will equip you to: Know with
confidence how to resolve conflict in your important relationships. Find
peace in your most difficult relationships as you learn to be honest but
kind when offended. Identify what type of reactor you are and how to
significantly improve your communication. Respond with no regrets by
managing your tendencies to stuff or explode. Gain a deep sense of
calm by learning how to respond to situations out of your control.
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. │Room 124│Facilitated by Lizzy Sutton.
The Power of a Whisper ~ God still speaks relevant words to His
followers. Learn how to tune your ear towards heaven as He directs
your steps.
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. │Room 124│Facilitated by Rich and Kathy Tuttle.
7:30 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (123)
Financial Peace │January 11 Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University will begin Sunday, January 11th, 5:00-6:30
p.m. in room #124. This 9 week course teaches participants what the Bible says about money
and provides “baby steps” for getting out of debt, investing, and building wealth. Registration
is $100 per family and includes a kit with a lifetime membership to the class. Contact Matthew
or Jennifer Christenberry by January 5th for more information or to order your kit.
[email protected], 706-255-3972. Childcare is provided.
Community Groups Begin │January 11 Community Groups Begin Sunday, January 11th
Community Groups of 8-12 people have been formed and will begin to meet in homes
and here at the church. If you have not yet signed up for a group and are interested, or
would like more information, please contact one of our co-chairs:
Brooke Lewis Slamkova│770-601-4615 │[email protected]
Jeff Edrington│ 404-392-5997 │[email protected]
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New members will receive a name badge. Orders
are placed once a month (between the 10-15th).
Please pick up your name tag off the “name
board” located at the reception desk across from
the Stars Cafe. Thank you.
NEED A NAME TAG?
Please contact the church office
770.867.3727
Please make our new members feel welcome:
Give them a call
Send them a note of welcome
Invite them to sit with you at the Wednesday night
meal
Invite them to your Sunday School class
Greet them on Sunday morning.
Gretchen Hill ................................. 770-963-3158
232 Lucas Way, Statham, GA 30666
Josh and Ally Langford................ 770-864-0269
Ally cell 478-288-6789
(Macy, Emma)
January 4 | Wesley Covenant Renewal
January 11 | Celebration of the Lord’s Baptism
January 18 | Core Values of BFUMC | WINGS Sermon
Series
Worship, Invite, Nurture, Grow, and Serve spells WINGS,
and these are the core values for Bethlehem First. We
believe this abundant life starts with Worship. We
are called to share the Good News by Inviting others
to join us on this faith journey. We want to help you
Nurture Godly friendships and relationships. We
believe we are to continuously Grow in our faith. We
encourage every member to find a place of Service
where they can share their gifts, talents & resources.
January 22 | Barrow County Benevolence Ministries
Food Distribution – Each year, Bethlehem First UMC
sponsors a food distribution through the Barrow
County Benevolence Ministries. This year, we will
distribute food on Thursday, January 22, at 7:45 AM in
the Holly Hills shopping center.
Steve Smith │ [email protected]
February 18 | Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the Lenten season.
March 4-8 | Global Impact Celebration
It’s coming again! Global Impact Celebration will be
held at Bethlehem First UMC. Plan to join us and learn
more about what is happening in missions. More
information coming soon.
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1. Rick Weiman
Ashley Cockfield
2. Rusty & Kelli Herrington (ann)
3. JoAnn Rivera
John Partee
Suda Abbett
Anniston Moss
4. Pam Rose
Georgia McCracken
5. Anna Bagwell
Aly Feggeler
Brett Bagwell
Stephen & Christy Preston (ann)
6. Joel Baggett
Jack Chicote
Trish Johnson
Jay Duke
Hunter Wolford
Charles Harrison
Molly St. Clair
Stefan & Jan Buchanan (ann)
7. Vance Hinch
Liam Manders
Adjoa Serwaa Ansah
Phyllis Austin
8. Catherine Phillips
Trevon Williams
Kelly Autry
9. Donna Hinsey
Mia Lee
Jordan Teal
Rodney & Nance Radford (ann)
Don & Susan Wages
10. Abena Ansah
11. Ernie Griggs
Harriett Harris
Susan Mercer
Kelli Herrington
Keith Sheffield
Susan Davis
12. Coach Connerley
Tina Edwards
William Dunn
Bill Anderson
Brianna Wingard
Robert Smith
Mary Lee Howard
Steve Moody
13. Gabby Monteriro
Hope Reese
Bruce & Lynda Chisholm (ann)
Robert & Meredith Hall (ann)
14. Shary Hamilton
Buggy Truelove
Brenda Pryor
Amanda Padovano
Ron Griffith
Anita Ransom
16. Rebecca Ratz
Megan McCutcheon
17. Jarred Clark
18. Zoey Stafford
19. AJ Szothkiewicz
20. Addison Shaw
Tonya Royal
21. Charlie Nelson
Kimmi Fleeman
Joel Miller
22. Emily Munoz
Adrienne Wages
David Quail
23. Nancy Turpin
24. Bob Howard
Wendy Cornell
25. Meghann Hancock
Angela Moss
Dave & Dolores Eckels (ann)
26. Jessica Young
Dick Morris
Jennie McEver
Maggie Scarborough
Sharon Weiman
Jennifer Rivera
27. Quinn Hilley
Lenell Carr
28. Carole Moddy
29. Nadine Goodman
Clancy Bourbeau
30. Doug Harris
31. Jenny Smith
Paige Howard
Kimberly Whisenant
Allen & Theresa Parrish (ann)
January 21, 2001
The dedication service for this “big white
church,” our 6th building was funded by the
late R. Harold Harrison.
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THURSDAY~ January 1, 2015
Fitness Center Closed
Church Closed
FRIDAY~ January 2
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (1pm)
8:00 a.m. New Year Camp (6pm)
SATURDAY~ January 3
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Family Friendly Zumba (G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SUNDAY~ January 4
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
4:45 p.m. 5th-12th Grade Choir (119)
4:45 p.m. Child Care/Bible Study (111)
5:00 p.m. Youth Group (130)
5:00 p.m. Disciple 1 (127)
5:00 p.m. Disciple IV (124)
MONDAY~ January 5
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
8:00 a.m. New Year Camp (6pm)
9:00 a.m. Zumba (G)
10:00 a.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. HIIT Cardio (G)
6:30 p.m. Covenant Bible Study (127)
7:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
7:00 p.m. UMM Executive Mtg. (128)
TUESDAY~ January 6
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Kickboxing (G)
9:15 a.m. Ladies L.I.G.H.T. Bible Study (114)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:00 p.m. Pump It Up (G)
6:00 p.m. Instrumental Ensemble (C)
7:00 p.m. Contemporary Band Pr. (WC)
7:00 p.m. Zumba (G)
WEDNESDAY~ January 7
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Fun with Crocheting (128)
2:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
5:30 p.m. WNL Fellowship Meal
6:10 p.m. 2nd-4th Grade Choir (C)
6:10 p.m. PreK-1st Grade Choir (108)
6:15 p.m. Spin Mix (UG)
6:30 p.m. Yoga (WC)
6:30 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Bridge (129)
6:30 p.m. 6th Grade Confirmation Class (127)
6:30 p.m. Community Group (125)
6:50 p.m. PreK-4th Grade Mission Focus (111)
7:00 p.m. Church 101 (125)
7:00 p.m. Adult Choir (119)
7:00 p.m. Women’s G.R.I.T.S. Bible Study (101)
7:00 p.m. The Power of a Whisper (124)
7:30 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (123)
THURSDAY~ January 8
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:15 p.m. Zumba (G)
7:00 p.m. 9:30 Band Practice (WC)
7:15 p.m. Power Sculpting (G)
FRIDAY~ January 9
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Pump It Up (G)
9:30 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SATURDAY~ January 10
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Surprise Fitness (G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SUNDAY~ January 11
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
4:45 p.m. 5th-12th Grade Choir (119)
4:45 p.m. Child Care/Bible Study (111)
5:00 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Bridge (129)
5:00 p.m. Disciple 1 (127)
5:00 p.m. Disciple IV (124)
5:00 p.m. Financial Peace (124)
MONDAY~ January 12
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Zumba (G)
10:00 a.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. HIIT Cardio (G)
6:00 p.m. United Methodist Men (FH)
6:30 p.m. Covenant Bible Study (127)
7:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
TUESDAY~ January 13
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Kickboxing (G)
9:15 a.m. Ladies L.I.G.H.T. Bible Study (114)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:00 p.m. Pump It Up (G)
7:00 p.m. Contemporary Band Pr. (WC)
7:00 p.m. Zumba (119)
WEDNESDAY~ January 14
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Fun with Crocheting (128)
2:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
5:30 p.m. WNL Fellowship Meal
6:10 p.m. 2nd-4th Grade Choir (C)
6:10 p.m. PreK-1st Grade Choir (108)
6:15 p.m. Spin Mix (UG)
6:30 p.m. Yoga (WC)
6:30 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Bridge (129)
6:30 p.m. 6th Grade Confirmation Class (127)
6:30 p.m. Youth Small Groups (126, 130, 131)
6:30 p.m. Community Group (125)
6:50 p.m. PreK-4th Grade Mission Focus (111)
7:00 p.m. Church 101 (125)
7:00 p.m. Adult Choir (119)
7:00 p.m. Women’s G.R.I.T.S. Bible Study (101)
7:00 p.m. The Power of a Whisper (124)
7:30 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (123)
THURSDAY~ January 15
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
12:00 p.m. STARS Luncheon (FH)
6:15 p.m. Zumba (G)
7:00 p.m. 9:30 Band Practice (WC)
7:15 p.m. Power Sculpting (G)
FRIDAY~ January 16
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (1pm)
9:00 a.m. Pump It Up (G)
C Chapel
FH Fellowship Hall
G Gym
S Sanctuary
SC Stars Café
UG Upper Gym
WC Worship Center
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9:30 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SATURDAY~ January 17
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Family Friendly Zumba (G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SUNDAY~ January 18
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
12:30 p.m. Family Ministry/Grow (129)
4:00 p.m. 5th-12th Grade Choir (119)
4:45 p.m. Child Care/Bible Study (111)
5:00 p.m. Youth Group (130)
5:00 p.m. Disciple 1 (127)
5:00 p.m. Disciple IV (124)
5:00 p.m. Financial Peace (124)
MONDAY~ January 19
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Zumba (G)
10:00 a.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. HIIT Cardio (G)
6:30 p.m. Covenant Bible Study (127)
7:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
7:00 p.m. United Methodist Women (128)
TUESDAY~ January 20
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Kickboxing (G)
9:15 a.m. Ladies L.I.G.H.T. Bible Study (114)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:00 p.m. Pump It Up (G)
6:30 p.m. Adult Handbells (S)
7:00 p.m. Contemporary Band Pr. (WC)
7:00 p.m. Trustees Mtg. (114)
7:00 p.m. Zumba (G)
WEDNESDAY~ January 21
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Fun with Crocheting (128)
2:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
5:30 p.m. WNL Fellowship Meal
6:10 p.m. 2nd-4th Grade Choir (C)
6:10 p.m. PreK-1st Grade Choir (108)
6:15 p.m. Spin Mix (UG)
6:30 p.m. Yoga (WC)
6:30 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Bridge (129)
6:30 p.m. 6th Grade Confirmation Class (127)
6:30 p.m. Youth Small Groups (126, 130, 131)
6:30 p.m. Community Group (125)
6:50 p.m. PreK-4th Grade Mission Focus (111)
7:00 p.m. Church 101 (125)
7:00 p.m. Adult Choir (119)
7:00 p.m. Women’s G.R.I.T.S. Bible Study (101)
7:00 p.m. The Power of a Whisper (124)
7:30 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (123)
THURSDAY~ January 22
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:15 p.m. Zumba (G)
6:30 p.m. Stephen Ministry Supervision (128)
7:00 p.m. 9:30 Band Practice (WC)
7:15 p.m. Power Sculpting (G)
FRIDAY~ January 23
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (1pm)
9:00 a.m. Pump It Up (G)
9:30 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SATURDAY~ January 24
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Surprise Fit (G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SUNDAY~ January 25
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
11:30 a.m. Hispanic Youth Ministry (124)
1:00 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (SC)
4:00 p.m. 5th-12 Handbells (S)
4:45 p.m. 5th-12 Grade Choir (119)
5:00 p.m. 2-4 Grade Handbell (S)
5:00 p.m. 5th-6th Bridge (129)
5:00 p.m. Youth Group (130)
5:00 p.m. Disciple 1 (127)
5:00 p.m. Disciple IV (128)
5:00 p.m. Financial Peace (124)
7:00 p.m. Healing Service (S)
MONDAY~ January 26
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Zumba (G)
10:00 a.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. HIIT Cardio (G)
6:30 p.m. Covenant (127)
7:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
TUESDAY~ January 27
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Kickboxing (G)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:00 p.m. Pump It Up (G)
6:30 p.m. Adult Handbells (S)
7:00 p.m. Contemporary Band Pr. (WC)
7:00 p.m. Zumba (G)
WEDNESDAY~ January 28
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
9:00 a.m. Fun with Crocheting (128)
2:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
5:30 p.m. WNL Fellowship Meal
6:10 p.m. 2nd-4th Grade Choir (C)
6:10 p.m. PreK-1st Grade Choir (108)
6:15 p.m. Spin Mix (UG)
6:30 p.m. Yoga (WC)
6:30 p.m. 5th/6th Grade Bridge (129)
6:30 p.m. 6th Grade Confirmation Class (127)
6:30 p.m. Youth Small Groups (126, 130, 131)
6:30 p.m. Community Group (125)
6:50 p.m. PreK-4th Grade Mission Focus (111)
7:00 p.m. Church 101 (125)
7:00 p.m. Adult Choir (119)
7:00 p.m. Women’s G.R.I.T.S. Bible Study (101)
7:00 p.m. The Power of a Whisper (124)
7:30 p.m. Hispanic Ministry (123)
THURSDAY~ January 29
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:15 p.m. Zumba (G)
7:00 p.m. 9:30 Band Practice (WC)
7:15 p.m. Power Sculpting (G)
FRIDAY~ January 30
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (1pm)
9:00 a.m. Pump It Up (G)
9:30 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SATURDAY~ January 31
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Family Friendly Zumba G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
Attention Church Leaders: Our annual
leadership training event is scheduled!
Childcare provided. If you are interested in
attending, please contact your committee chair
or call the church office, 770-867-3727. Meet
at the church at 1:30 to carpool.
Athens-Elberton Training Session Sunday, January 11, 2015
2:15 - 5:00 p.m. at Athens First UMC 327 North Lumpkin St.
Athens, GA 30601
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Ministry Assistants
Greeters
8:30 Shirley Alcorn, Ed Novak, Carol Ward
9:30 Lamar Mask, Shane Short
Leon Laske, Sally Anne Short, Shane Short
11:00 Lenell Carr, Gwen Foernsler, Larry Laske, Malcolm
Mercer, Susan Mercer, Michele Powell, Pam Shaw,
Terry Shaw, David Sorrells
Acolytes
Today Montee Flahn, Logan Laske
Jan. 4 Rachel Howard, Maggie Scarborough
Ushers
8:30 Shirley Alcorn, Ed Novak, Carol Ward
9:30 Sherry Mask
11:00 Vance Barnwell, John Bittner, Pete Black, Phil Elam,
Ron Griffith, Morgan Howard, Joel Miller, Nick Moore,
Larry Partee
Jan. 4 Dwight Austin, Charles Autry, Allen Bower, Ron Deal,
John Fleeman, Jeff Kennedy, Lamar Pugh, Don Wages
Prayer Concerns
Members Dec. 14 ~ Jordan Clark, Morgan Howard
Dec. 21 ~ Susan Bittner, Jeff Childs, Gunner Huckaby
Dec. 28 ~ Gina Schulz, Tim Strickland
On-Going ~ Elizabeth Barber, Dianne Beaird, Phil Elam, Harriet
Harris, Carolyn & Charles Harrison, Heather Lee, Mary Nell
Partee, Frances & Leeon Pruett, Hazel Smith, Judy Swanner,
Julia Ridgeway, Rachel Thompson
Non- Members
Dec. 14 ~ Mike Bachler, Betty Griffith, Cameron Skinner
Dec. 21 ~ Mike Atkins, Marlon Cauley, Laila Scott, Louise Scott
Dec. 28 ~ Jeff Folmsbee
On-Going ~ Katie Adams, Megan Godina, Louise Pitts, David
Powell, Mary Willie Thompson
December 21, 2014 Attendance
Sunday School .................................................. 72
Nursery ............................................................. 30
8:30 Service ...................................................... 19
9:30 Orange ...................................................... 48
9:30 Service .................................................... 131
11:00 Orange .................................................... 43
11:00 Contemporary Service ............................ 73
11:00 Traditional Service ................................ 223
Total Sunday Worship ................................. 567
Revenue YTD ................................. $1,004,844.78
Expenses YTD ................................ $1,051,086.49
Different ways you can give to BFUMC:
Offering plate or basket during worship services
Mail in check or drop off at the reception desk.
On-line giving via the church website,
www.bethlehemfirstumc.com/giving
Electronic payments from your banking institution.
Remember BFUMC in your Wills and Trusts.
If you currently donate online for your BFUMC giving and still
want to put something in the collection plate, cards stating that
you donate online are available at the church entrances and
may be placed in the collection basket during the offertory.
Stephen Ministry
CHRISTMAS SEASON:
The joy of Christmas can turn into a time
of painful loneliness and emptiness for
those who have suffered a loss or are
going through a difficult time. But help is available. Our
Stephen Ministers are ready to provide confidential, one-to-
one Christian care. They will listen, care, encourage, pray
with and for you, and support you through the holidays and
as long as your need persists. If you or someone you know is
hurting, find out more about Stephen Ministry by talking
with one of our Stephen Leaders: Jenny Smith, 770-826-
0266 or Kathy Brown, 770-601-7047. Our Stephen Ministers
are there to care!
Our Faithfulness
INCLEMENT WEATHER?
Check for church closings Channel 2, 5 and 11 and church website
www.bigwhitechurch.com
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Week At A Glance C Chapel FH Fellowship Hall G Gym S Sanctuary SC Stars Café UG Upper Gym WC Worship Center
WEDNESDAY~ December 31 New Year’s Eve
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (3pm)
10:00 a.m. Church Office (2pm)
7:00 a.m. Winter Camp (7pm)
9:00 a.m. Fun with Crocheting (128)
Sunday Morning Snacks are enjoyed every week in the Stars Café. When
you arrive, the coffee is made, and there are breakfast snacks available for
your pleasure. If these refreshments are
something you appreciate on Sunday mornings,
then we need you to volunteer to pick up
breakfast finger foods for any Sunday of your
choice. (you can be reimbursed up to $25).
You can talk with Kim Childs or Gabby Luk any Sunday in the Stars Café
before the 9:30 worship service, or send an email to Kim at
WNL Fellowship Meal
Will Resume
January 7, 2015
SUNDAY~ December 28
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
11:30 a.m. Hispanic Youth Ministry (124)
12:30 p.m. Hand & Foot Card Playing (128)
MONDAY~ December 29
Church Office Closed
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
7:00 a.m. Winter Camp (7pm)
9:00 a.m. Zumba (G)
10:00 a.m. Spin & Abs (UG)
6:00 p.m. HIIT Cardio (G)
7:00 p.m. Pickleball (G)
TUESDAY~ December 30
Church Office Closed
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (8pm)
7:00 a.m. Winter Camp (7pm)
9:00 a.m. Insane Surprise Class (G)
9:15 a.m. Ladies L.I.G.H.T. Bible Study (114)
10:00 a.m. Senior Fitness (G)
6:00 p.m. Pump It Up (G)
7:00 p.m. Contemporary Band Pr. (WC)
7:00 p.m. Zumba (G)
THURSDAY~ January 1, 2015
Fitness Center Closed
Church Closed
FRIDAY~ January 2
6:00 a.m. Fitness Center (1pm)
8:00 a.m. New Year Camp (6pm)
SATURDAY~ January 3
8:00 a.m. Fitness Center (12pm)
9:00 a.m. Family Friendly Zumba (G)
9:00 a.m. Yoga (WC)
SUNDAY~ January 4
8:30 a.m. Holy Communion Service (C)
9:30 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
9:30 a.m. 9:30 Worship Service (WC)
9:30 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
10:45 a.m. Hispanic Worship (123)
11:00 a.m. 1st-4th AdventureLand (FH)
11:00 a.m. Adult Sunday School (127)
11:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship Svc (WC)
11:00 a.m. PreK-K DiscoveryLand (111)
11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship Svc. (S)
12:30 p.m. Health & Wellness Ministry (123)
4:00 p.m. 5th-12th Grade Handbells (S)
4:45 p.m. 5th-12th Grade Choir (119)
4:45 p.m. Child Care/Bible Study (111)
5:00 p.m. Youth Group (130)
5:00 p.m. Disciple 1 (127)
Lay Servant Courses │2015
The registration deadline for Lay Servant classes is Thursday, January 1, 2015.
Class fee is $40 and made payable to Athens Elberton District.
Classes will be held on Saturday, January 10 and Saturday, January 17, from 9:00
a.m.—3:00 p.m. at Chapelwood UMC, 100 Janice Dr., Athens, GA 30606.
Mail registration form and check to Shirley Alcorn, 147 Thornbrook, Bethlehem,
GA 30620. Contact: Shirley Alcorn │[email protected]
Quilt Squares for Church in Liberia
Thank you to all who
purchased quilt squares
for the Village of
Hope! The goal is to have
the quilt hanging in our church by
Easter and in the church in Liberia
when it is constructed. If you missed
the opportunity and would still like a
square to honor someone, please
contact Lizzy Sutton at
There is no real deadline. Orders will
be taken until the quilt is made.
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709 Christmas Ave., Bethlehem, GA 30620
770-867-3727 │ [email protected]
www.bigwhitechurch.com
WELCOME, VISITORS AND GUESTS!
We are delighted you have chosen to worship with us today. Please
fill out the attendance register at the end of the pew or as it is
passed.
ABOUT US:
At Bethlehem First UMC, we have a common mission: To make
disciples of Jesus Christ. We offer a loving, nurturing environment in
which to serve and worship Christ, and to grow spiritually. We would
love to have you join us each Sunday.
LEARN MORE:
If you would like to learn more about Bethlehem First UMC,
please visit us on the web at www.bigwhitechurch.com, speak
with a pastor following the service, call the church office at
770-867-3727, or email us at [email protected].
WELCOME, CHILDREN
Childcare is available for newborns through age 4 during Sunday
school and all Sunday morning worship services. Your child
graduates to DiscoveryLand (PreK/K), Room 111, if they are 4, on or
before December 31st. Please use our electronic check-in system
before bringing your child to their age appropriate room.
Newborn to Walking Room 121
Walking to Age 3 Room 110
Age 3 & 4 Room 109
FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE:
Hearing assistance is available for the 11:00 o’clock service in the
sanctuary. Please ask one of the greeters or ushers for a receiver
and they will be happy to assist you.
Restrooms are located in the narthex (front lobby), the Commons
Area, near Room #114, and next to the Stars Cafe.
Our Staff
Rev. Frank Bernat Senior Pastor 770-362-7998 cell [email protected]
9:30 Worship Service This lite-contemporary service is a good way to begin your Sunday morning! Our Praise Band plays a variety of good music including folk, country, rock, and gospel. Our service is spirit-filled and energetic, yet relaxed and welcoming. Dress is casual and the STARS Café is open before and after. Make yourself at home.
11:00 Traditional Worship Service Come and experience the time-honored traditions and practices of historical Christianity in one of the most beautiful sanctuaries in North Georgia. Our sanctuary exudes holiness and the Holy Spirit can be felt as one enters the room. Please enter in reverence but worship with all your heart as we enjoy the great hymns, creeds, and traditions of our Christian faith.
Rev. Matt Parker, Associate Pastor 404-538-2567 cell [email protected]
11:00 Contemporary Worship Service The 11:00 Contemporary Worship Service helps people connect with God and celebrate all that God has done in our lives. The prayer for this worship experience is that those who worship with us may join together in one voice and one prayer as we praise God. Our time of worship includes singing contemporary music and listening to a scripturally based message.
Rev. Michele May Pastor of Discipleship & Families 706-201-5063 cell [email protected]
GROW But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 Through our GROW ministries, persons have opportunities to deepen and grow in their relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Through Bible study, prayer, worship, and small group fellowship, persons are able to understand more fully what it means to love God and love our neighbors. Individuals are able to discover how God has uniquely gifted them to serve, both within and outside the church.
Debbie Huckaby Pastor of Congregational Care 706-296-0665 cell [email protected]
8:30 Holy Communion Service A 30-45 minute worship service meets every Sunday
morning in the Chapel. This intimate service offers
hymns, prayer, message, and Holy Communion. Come
and worship in the Chapel at Bethlehem.
Would you like to join Bethlehem First UMC?
If you have been visiting we hope you will consider joining Bethlehem First United Methodist
Church. You may join by:
1. Transferring your membership from another United Methodist Church
2. Transferring your membership from another denomination
3. Confession of Faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
To learn more about church membership please contact one of our pastors listed above and
say “I want to join the church.”
Our Clergy
Email Addresses: first name. last [email protected]
unless otherwise notated
Audio/Video, Mark Nichols
404-606-7671
Custodian, Jack Chilcote
770.712.7336
Executive Assistant, Karen Whitehead
Finance Director, Nikki Shelton
Fitness/Rec Director, Anissa Sullivan
Music Minister, Karen Smith
Nursery Supervisor, Jennie Etheredge
Office Assistants, Gretchen Hill,
Jennifer Pohl
Organist, Brenda Fleeman
Pianist, Katrina Wilson
Preschool Director
Lizzy Sheffield, 770.867.3724
Security, J.P. Boyd
770.867.9551, [email protected]
Youth Ministry
H.S. ~ Dawn Bradberry, 678-227-1970
M.S. ~ Amy Watts, 404-213-7856