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September 4, 2025
Do you like vanilla ice cream? In 1953, Baskin Robbins launched the iconic “31 Flavors” concept and logo. Thirty-one because that represented a different flavor for every day of the month, whose founders believed ice cream should be a daily treat. Over the years, Baskin Robbins has created over 1,400 flavors including variations of vanilla ice cream (French vanilla, vanilla bean, homemade, old-fashioned) while classic vanilla remains a favorite on the menu. This has prompted the question by flavor profile connoisseurs, “Why would anyone choose vanilla when there are so many exhilarating flavors available?” Because vanilla is not the absence of something. It is something.
Likewise, peace is not simply the absence of conflict. True peace is something. It is the presence of compassion, respect, fairness, and forgiveness. The same is true of kindness. Genuine kindness is the presence of compassion, humility, meekness, patience, generosity toward others, consideration. “Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)
Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit of God. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22) Kindness is manifested in many ways, like in a pair (or many pairs) of shoes, a smile, a word of encouragement, extending hospitality, sitting and being present with someone. “Let your kindness be known to all people. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5) Thank you for allowing the goodness of God to shine through you.
We have embarked on a journey in a Year of (Intentional and sometimes Unexpected) Kindness. This Sunday, September 7, is a day we are encouraged to invite a person or persons to any of the four worship services. There just may be a little surprise of sweetness added to this special day to be shared all around – for all ages.
"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." (attributed to Aesop)
Keep sharing and spreading kindness, reflecting the active love of Christ. Here are some opportunities to do just that:
September 7, Year of Kindness – Invite a person or persons to any of the four worship services.
Youth Group Opportunities:
September 5, Middle School Lock-In, 9 PM – 7 AM, Family Life Center
September 7, Youth Group “Bring a Friend” Sunday – 5 PM – 7:15 PM – Family Life Center
Sunday School Teaching Opportunities on a weekly or once a month basis are available for grades 6-12, 10-10:45 AM. Materials are provided. Contact Brandy Streett for more information (brandys@belinumc.org; 843.385.1676).
September 14, Epworth Children’s Home Work Day Offering received to support the ministry of caring for children, youth, and families for 126 years.
September 14, Starting Point, 10 AM in Room 11 in the Family Life Center. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Belin Memorial, prepare to become a member, and meet or connect again with some of the ministry leaders, age-level ministry directors, and pastors.
September 22, Community Basketball League registration opens. You can register your child by going on the NOW page or by clicking HERE. For more information, please contact Sherri Henderson (sherrih@belinumc.org).
Fall Festival & BBQ volunteer forms are available in the Family Life Center, church office, and online. T-shirts ($20/each) and tickets ($15/each) are available for purchase in the Family Life Center and church office.
Shalom,
Sandra
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