September 2024 - Newsletter for Franklinton Baptist Church

Homecoming 2024 – A Message of Gratitude and Praise!

September 15, 2024

“It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because I have you in my heart, and you are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and establishment of the gospel.” Philippians 1:7 (Christian Standard Bible)

Dear Beloved Members of Franklinton Baptist Church,

As we embark on the month of September, I am compelled to express my heartfelt gratitude and praise to the extraordinary individuals who comprise our church family. For 166 years, we have stood steadfast on the foundation laid by our forbearers, built on the pillars of love, loyalty, sacrifice and service. This month, we honor our rich heritage and continue to respond to the divine call to ministry that has been entrusted to us.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have cultivated a vibrant and unique Baptist Church, characterized by a diverse array of ministries that have profoundly impacted countless lives! While we cannot quantify the spiritual transformations that have occurred, we know that lives have been redeemed, comforted, and challenged through our collective efforts to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

We rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn, all because our Savior has called us to care for one another. We boldly believe that God has gathered us for a purpose greater than ourselves, for His glory and honor.

In my 7 months here, I have experienced unparalleled encouragement and joy in our shared ministry and journey. As we approach the Homecoming celebration, we are not only deepening our faith but also continuing our sacred work, knowing that it will persist beyond our lifetimes. I am reminded of the poignant prayer attributed to Winifred Holtby, who wrote: “God give me work ‘til my life shall end and life ‘til my work is done.”

I extend my sincerest appreciation to each of you for your remarkable dedication and willingness to serve. May we persist in our noble endeavors, knowing that our labor is not in vain? One hundred sixty-six years have been a testament to God’s faithfulness and I thank Him for each of you.

In the eternal fellowship

Dr. Richard Childress

Upcoming Guest Speakers at Franklinton Baptist Church

To ensure a seamless transition and maintain uninterrupted worship, guest speakers have been scheduled for the Sundays Dr. Childress is unavailable. These commitments were made prior to his call as bi-vocational pastor at Franklinton Baptist Church allowing us to plan ahead and secure the following guest speakers for the specified dates.

Dr. Childress will be out of the pulpit on the following Sundays:

September 1– guest speaker Reverend James Keating

September 29 – guest speaker Reverend James Keating  

Homecoming Speaker

We are pleased to announce that the Rev. Steve Kegley will be our guest speaker for Homecoming on September 15. Rev. Kegley served as Minister of Music at Franklinton Baptist Church back in the late 1980's. Rev. Kegley is Senior Pastor at Hopewell Baptist Church in Madison, Florida. He has served in ministry for 50 years, and we are thankful for the opportunity to have him lead our Homecoming service this year. We hope you will make plans to join us for Homecoming!

Patrick's Musical Passages

Jesus said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 18:3). Mathew Henry notes that children approach Christ in a very unique way. They are not influenced by resources, achievements or accomplishments. Jesus gave us the greatest example of humility in His obedience to the will of God and service to others. (Phil. 2:5-8) John Sammis wrapped this idea into a wonderful hymn, “Trust and Obey”.

Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet.

Or we’ll walk by His side in the way.

What He says we will do, where He sends we will go;

Never fear, only trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way

To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

The Ministries of Franklinton Baptist Church

You're Invited

The gospel group "Unashamed" will be our guests on September 29 at 5:00 P.M. We will collect a love offering during the service. We hope you will attend and bring a friend!

Staff

Dr. Richard Childress, Pastor

Patrick Woods, Music Director

Cheryl Hollar, Secretary

Danny Fuller, Custodian

Kay Mendenhall, Nursery Attendant