More Heroes of Faith

About once a month, I try to reflect on an individual or individuals that I appreciated growing up that challenged me in my faith and has been an encouragement in my Christian walk.

This month I want to highlight elders.

What an awesome responsibility it is to be a Shepherd of the Lord’s Church. I never knew what these men and their families had to deal with until I was selected to serve the Central Church four years ago.

I appreciated men like Bill Nagel, Leon Stitt, Frank Boyle, Eldon Howell, Lloyd Lamirand, Bill Rhodes, Mabrey Miller, Elmer Baker, and Leon Shoemaker who sacrificed their time and gave me encouragement and taught me how to be a faithful Christian husband, a loving father and future leader.

These men challenged me and instructed me in God’s teachings.

Today I appreciate serving with five of the finest Christian men that I have ever met. I appreciate Rex, Bill, Roger, Jerry and Gary so much. Each one brings different personalities, and perspectives to the Eldership. We are blessed to have these men!

Who will be included on my list twenty years from now? We need to be “grooming” and “preparing” our younger men for this responsibility. The Eldership of the future will be even more stressful and vital with the problems that the Church will be experiencing as Satan attacks from all sides.

Order of Worship (Sunday, November 19)

Welcome

103 He Has Made Me Glad

797 Lord, We Come Before Thee Now (Verse 1 and 4)

63 I Will Call Upon the Lord

Prayer

Scripture: Hebrews 9:24-26

376 He Paid A Debt (1st Verse Only)

Wonderful, Merciful Savior

Lords Supper

Contribution

Dismiss to Children’s Worship Time

162 All Hail the Power of Jesus Name (Verse 1 and 4)

167 Hosanna

239 In Moments like These

Message Evan Burdan

Invitation 683 I Am Mine No More

Announcements

Closing Prayer

Elders-Deacons Meeting (November 14)

Attendees: Ed McKinley, Mike Farrar, Scott Smith, Gary Souder, Roger Hamm, Jerry Myers, Ron Bruening, Rex Allen, Evan "Sad Texan" Burdan, Kurt Johnston, David Shinn, Joe Todd, Steve Toillion, Scott Smith

Opening Prayer-David Shinn
Scripture- John 1:16.."For from the fullness of His grace have we received one blessing after another."
Treasurer's Report- Ed McCoy (avg. Sunday offering 6,570.83)

Old Business- a) Joe Todd looking into replacing ceiling tiles in auditorium-very expensive; will pursue other suppliers b) Elders challenged Deacons to look for members to help them with their assignments to involve more people/avoid burnout New Business-Roundtable a) Ed McKinley- comprehensive review of proposed 2007 budget; some discussion/changes. We were gratified by the generosity of the whole congregation! b) Mike Farrar asked about plans to finance the new building. c) Scott Smith gave Youth update..Feels strongly we should have a Youth Minister as the first staff person hired. Will work with David Carriger to seek best candidates. d) Ron asks that the Deak of the Week sit in the back foyer during service for security reasons. His efforts in benevolence are noted. e) Steve T showed pictures of the house at 4236 Burlingame for us to think about future use. Thanks to Dean Lonard for mowing lot.

Several items were referred to the deacons for their next meeting. They will decide best action and tell elders their plans. Elders challenged the deacons to help us in 3 areas 1) involvement of the whole congregation, 2) local evangelism and 3) re-claiming some members who are not fully involved.

Closing Prayer-Roger Hamm

Hymn Seven (Unsung)

Rarely do You leave me at a loss for words.
Midwestern wit kicks in and my not-so dusty books
always hold thoughts
centuries saved, cherished, projected. Like flitting birds
darting across sudden blue sky, I always find, when I look,
a perfect idea sought,

the familiar twisted to strange. This morning though, I choke
down an odd roar wanting to warble ugly. I
indeed have reckoned if
it is just as lucky to die as live. I’ve asked why
more than children. Yet, I cannot grasp the little body broken,
the delicate body stiff

when only three years is all her eyes had to blink.
A sweet girl now whispers to You, tugs on what hems
You may
drag down golden avenues. Our empty hearts sink
into platitudes, life’s lessons, amazing grace, forgiven sins
and more muted raging about Your ways.

Michael P. Carriger

Teaching

Ever thought what you might want to do when you grow up? I have been thinking about it for some time. I decided that I wanted to be a teacher at the end of my sophomore year in college. I loved history, I wanted to coach, and I loved being around kids so what better thing to do with my life.

It feels like a million years ago that I had my first classroom in Wichita. In 1986, I taught 35 kids 6 hours a day freshman social studies. On my 7th hour I rested! I would catch my breath and begin planning for basketball and tennis practice after school. Those were the days!

I miss those days. Days where I felt I made a difference because I taught kids not just about American History or Geography but lessons about life. Lessons on how to treat people, how to work as a team, how to problem solve different situations.

If you are deciding what you would like to do as a career, if you love kids and feel like you have the ability to motivate and teach kids, I encourage you to look at a career in teaching. We need good teachers who wish to help mold the new generation of learners. We need good teachers who are not intimidated easily and wish to take a stand and teach what is right and what is wrong in our nations classrooms.

I love what John Wooden says about education……."They ask me why I teach, where could I find such splendid company."

Education is Important!

If you are a school employee....Happy American Education Week!

I shared this with my teaching staff last week:

Mrs. Merv Grazinski of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, purchased a brand new 32-foot Winnebago motor home. On her first trip home, (from an OU football game), having driven onto the freeway, she set the cruise control at 70 mph and calmly left the driver's' seat to go into the back and make herself a sandwich. Not surprisingly, the RV left the freeway, crashed and overturned. Mrs. Grazinski sued Winnebago for not advising her in the owner's' manual that she couldn't actually do this. The jury awarded her $1,750,000 plus a new motor home. The company actually changed their manuals on the basis of this suit (Being from Oklahoma I believe this story 100%).

As we educate our students in the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic we teach other basic skills as well. We teach problem solving skills on a daily basis. It might of helped Mrs. Grazinski.

Enjoy the Thanksgiving break coming up, and please, if you do drive south into Oklahoma please watch out for recreational vehicles, you never know who might be driving.

Elders Meeting Minutes (November 8)

Elder?s Meeting
11-8-06

Present: Rex Allen, Bill Carriger, Roger Hamm, Gary Souder

Opening prayer: Gary Souder

Meeting with Evan Burdan

Discussion on the following:
1. Need for possible small groups one Sunday evening each month.
2. Ways to meet the spiritual needs of the whole congregation while trying to increase our outreach in the community.

It was noted that we presently have the following each month:
1. 4th Sunday Evening Praise and Prayer
2. A group going to Hearthstone on the 3rd Sunday
3. A group of young professionals meeting once each month for food, fellowship, and Bible study in a different home each month

The advantages of having one Sunday evening each month for those who want to meet in homes that evening were discussed.

Regardless of what develops, it was firmly stated there would always be a group meeting at the building to facilitate those that are working in the mornings and those that simply enjoy the fellowship and Bible lessons in that format.

The elders want to complete the long-range goal/vision plans for the congregation and tailor the format for the work and worship around those plans.

Time was devoted to prayer before Evan was dismissed.

Praise and thanks were extended to Evan for the great work he is doing in bringing lessons from God?s Word each Sunday.

Discussion on Christmas Day and evening service:
We will meet as usual Sunday morning. Sunday evening we will meet at 4:00 pm for praise and devotional thoughts. Communion for those that can?t be there Sunday morning will be in the auditorium.

Benevolent needs were discussed and action taken.

A visitor recently had some questions about our worship and activities. We talked about how we can meet with that individual to answer his questions. Sunday evening after services was recommended.

Rex reported that the building committee would be meeting next week with the architect to go over further plans. They have been meeting for several weeks and will have more info for the congregation soon.

Roger will be out of town Sunday. Jerry Myers will be the elder of the day.

Closing prayer: Roger Hamm

Meeting adjourned at 10:15

Quote for the Day

“Nearly all men can stand adversity,
But if you want to test a man’s character,
Give him power”

Abraham Lincoln

Hymn Six (Unsung)

What whispered hopes still smolder for a calmer world—no insurgency
by us or the other them—all famine, foreign and domestic, fed—
diseases done—
the poor brought up from gutter shack, back alley
life—these hopes lie not in forked-tongue men, alive or dead.
No election won

can turn back apple-eating, re-plant Eden, dam the flood.
No tv spot, sticker, button, mass-mailer or yard sign can call
us brothers, sisters, one,
and make it so. I am tired, sick and tired, of mud,
hate-polished, flung, slung. There is nothing in government halls
worth the truth—fully spun.

Let hanging chads fall where they may.
Let touch-screen databases be hacked, corrupted.
As a future full-resident,
Joe Citizen of Heaven, here is what I have to say,
let those with ears hear undisrupted,I’m voting Christ for President.

Michael P. Carriger

Is the Election Over Yet?

My position is very political, but I must avoid being political in most instances. Doesn’t make much sense.

Living and working in a small community, the Superintendent of Schools is always asked their political opinions about candidates and issues. The hard part is placing my endorsement on a certain candidate or certain platform.

Unfortunately, at times, my opinion and decisions influence many individuals and candidates seeking political office and even some elections. I have to really make a conscious effort to understand candidate’s views and personal issues.

On the other hand, my two boys are outwardly “political animals”. They love to debate and discuss the issues. Many times I have to remind them to be careful what you say and do because it could impact me personally.

So on this Election Day who are you going to vote for?

Who are you going to support?

Will they have the moral principles to be leaders or will they just point fingers and bring fear to the average American citizen?

Remember that the Scribes and Pharisees looked “holy and just” but did not have the heart that really mattered.

He Knows My Name

Ever just watch people? I enjoy just sitting in a crowded shopping mall or airport just watching people. So many stories. So many challenging lives. People that are happy. People that are sorrowful. Many differing emotions and situations.

While I was at the airport a couple of weeks ago, I saw a father and his son. The father was placing his 10 year old boy on an airplane by himself to fly him back to his mother for the week. The boy looked very sad. The boy never said a word as the dad kissed his son on the head and sent him on his way. Immediately as the boy got on the plane, the dad got on his cell phone to tell his ex-wife that the boy was on the plane. As the dad walked away the boy turned and looked at his dad. I might never forget that look the boy gave his father as he walked away being left alone to board a plane with 150 strangers.

I was thinking, our Father never walks away from us. He holds our hand and is always as close as we need Him to be.

I am thankful that I have a Father that knows my name. I am thankful that my Father wants to have a relationship with me.


He Knows My Name (I Have A Maker) - Paul Baloche

I have a maker
He formed my heart,
before even time began
My life was in his hands

He knows my name
He knows my every thought,
He sees each tear that falls
and hears me when I call

I have a father,
he calls me his own
He'll never leave me,
no matter where I go

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
and hears me when I call

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
and hears me when I call

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
And hears me when I call
He hears me when I call

Alton Howard

A week ago today one of my favorite Giants of the Faith, Alton Howard passed away. He was known for his hymnal, "Songs of Faith and Praise" widely used in countless churches (Central). Having founded Howard Publishing and being involved in various ministries (especially at the White's Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, Louisiana), he was known as a champion of singing and worship.

I met Mr. Howard at the Tulsa Workshop several years ago and loved hearing his stories about the changes in church music. Thank you Alton, for bringing new worship music to the Churches of Christ. It allowed a new generation to connect with their Heavenly Father.

Closer to You

Ever have an empty feeling?

Ever feel broken, no good, not worth anything?

Ever feel so dry in your spiritual walk that you can’t see or feel God’s loving touch?

I have recently. I have felt complete exhaustion and complete uselessness for about the past six months. With job and family responsibilities, and even church demands.

My body and mind is worn-out, I’m tired. Busyness has worn me out. I have felt empty spiritually. I have felt God was so far and I didn’t know how to reconnect like I should.

As a school superintendent my life is a blur. I go from one meeting to the next, one activity to the next leaving the house at 6:30 a.m. and usually getting back around 10:00 p.m. each evening. Life flies by, what have I accomplished? If it wasn’t for a palm pilot, I don’t know if I could get through life.

Carl invited me to attend the Zoe Worship Conference about 6 months ago. I kept looking for ways to say no, I’m too busy. There’s no way I can be gone from the school district during that weekend.

I believe God was telling me that I needed to attend this worship weekend and get reconnected with Him once again. We needed quiet time with each other. He needed me but I desperately needed Him. I didn’t just need to go through the motions but really worship him with all my heart. I needed to spend time reflecting on what He has done for me and praise Him for it.

I am thankful that God was active and working on my heart that weekend. I needed that time alone with Him to look back and say thank you for loving me; thank you for all the blessings you give me that I don’t appreciate each day; thank you for my family; thank you for your church (especially the Central Family); but most of all, thank you for your Son that gave me the opportunity to have a relationship with You.

This coming Sunday, November 5, we will have an opportunity to worship, as a family, the Creator of the Universe. What a great opportunity that will be.

We must acknowledge our brokenness and bring it to God to be fully healed. Hiding what is broken, or trying to just let it heal itself, will usually only make what is broken, heal improperly. If it’s sin, confess it. If it’s failure, admit it. If it is weakness, acknowledge it. Then ask the Great Physician for help and healing.

When God heals you can offer yourself back to God to be used by Him in His work. Like the boy who brought the loaves and fishes, what we offer may not seem like enough to meet the demand. But when it is offered to the Father, he makes it more than sufficient. He takes what is broken and makes it strongest in the broken places. If you are feeling tired, worn-out, empty or broken, what better place to come for healing than the throne of the living God.

See you Sunday as we draw “Closer” to God!

Elders Meeting Minutes (November 1)

Scripture-John 1:16??From the fullness of His (Jesus) grace we receive one blessing after another.? Praise the Lord!

Prayer-focusing on reclaiming our own sheep-Gary Souder

Old Business-recap of last Sunday service/Tallgrass open house

New business-
a) review notes from planning session, Oct. 12?re-commit to action
b) divide list of members in need of contact re. needs/commitment
c) discussion of Evan sermon direction for Nov-Dec
d) round-table discussion of Sunday, Nov. 5 format; continued support of the Search
program; youth minister candidate

Much discussion of special needs of the sheep, benevolent concerns and meeting needs?.

David Carriger-closing prayer focusing on the hurting sheep.

Respectfully submitted,
Jerry Myers

Hymn Five (Unsung)

Hymn Five (Unsung)

You’ve let me wander staggering, lonely in the crowd.
A thousand faces blur like watercolors on
thin paper. Voices fall
into other voices. I am less a something today—not proud
not gloating, hardly my father’s son, most ambition gone
left to crawl and bawl

and brawl with skeletal dreams of what I still can be,
I think. For Lazarus, You made another day.
Bring the sun up for me.
When another breath seems too troubling, too far away,
inhale and rattle the cosmos to the farthest
star. Give me rest.

Breathe for us both. At three a.m. in the half-light,
the pillow wet, the blankets balled up, all fears rushing,
please appear.
Like that valley years ago, show Your quiet might,
throw muscle onto bone. Churn blood, anxieties hushing.
Tonight, Dream-Restorer, draw near.

Michael P. Carriger

Closer

The theme for the 10th annual Zoe Conference was Closer. How to draw closer to our Father in a world of busyness and turmoil. The following song (Carl introduced at 4th Sunday Praise) was used as the theme for the weekend...

Closer

I am weak but You are strong
Jesus keep me from all wrong;
I'll be satisfied as long
as I walk, O Lord,
close to You

Through this world of toils and snares,
If I falter, Lord who cares?
Who with me my burden shares?
None but You, O Lord,
none but You.

Closer,
Closer,
Closer to You.
Closer,
Closer,
Closer to You.

When my feeble life is o're,
Time for me will be no more,
Guide me to that peaceful shore.
Let it be, O Lord,
close to You.

Closer,
Closer,
Closer to You.
Closer,
Closer,
Closer to You.

Words Traditional
Randy Gill 2006

My Hope Is In You Lord

My heart is aching today for a colleague of mine that I really enjoy working with. She told me and several others that her husband left her last week for a woman 17 years younger. She found out the affair had being going on for over a year.

What do you say?

I think my eyes probably said what my heart was thinking. Tears. My eyes couldn’t holdback the emotion that I was feeling for this individual as she shared her story of a painful situation. She felt no longer wanted or loved.

I’m glad we have a God that will never leave us nor forsake us. He will always be there.

Psalm 42

"AS THE hart pants and longs for the water brooks, so I pant and long for You, O God.
My inner self thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God?

My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, Where is your God?

These things I [earnestly] remember and pour myself out within me: how I went slowly before the throng and led them in procession to the house of God [like a bandmaster before his band, timing the steps to the sound of music and the chant of song], with the voice of shouting and praise, a throng keeping festival.

Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, my Help and my God.

O my God, my life is cast down upon me [and I find the burden more than I can bear]; therefore will I [earnestly] remember You from the land of the Jordan [River] and the [summits of Mount] Hermon, from the little mountain Mizar.

[Roaring] deep calls to [roaring] deep at the thunder of Your waterspouts; all Your breakers and Your rolling waves have gone over me.

Yet the Lord will command His loving-kindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, a prayer to the God of my life.

I will say to God my Rock, Why have You forgotten me? Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

As with a sword [crushing] in my bones, my enemies taunt and reproach me, while they say continually to me, Where is your God?

Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my countenance, and my God."

Life in Perspective

One day a father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the firm purpose of showing his son how poor people live. They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family. On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?""It was great, Dad." "Did you see how poor people live?" the father asked." Oh Yeah" said the son. "So what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father. The son answered, "I saw that we have one dog and they had four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon. We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. We have servants who serve us, but they serve others. We buy our food, but they grow theirs. We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them. With this the boy's father was speechless. Then his son added, "Thanks, Dad, for showing me how poor we are."

Too many times we forget what we have and concentrate on what we don't have. What is one's person's worthless object is another's prize possession. It is all based on one's perspective.

Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for all the bounty we have, instead of worrying about wanting more.

Hymn Four (Unsung)

Rarely, I shake a spear or rattle a honed saber. I
have yet to trench the moat around my suburban home
or throw up bastions in bricks.
My patience stretches long like prairie skies.
I have turned 490 cheeks, chosen not to lob stones,
though bones do break from sticks

and words can still cut deep and crush. In the dark street
my neighbors rumble and boom, clatter and yell.
Morning looms—
no respectful cut-off for them. They hate me
as themselves, uncaring, violent. I know full well
my ire is brimming. I fume.

I wish for Your sudden wrath most nights—
one single sizzling death bolt firing down
from a cloudless
sky. Their house in ruins. All noise stopped. A sight
like a just holocaust in a quiet Kansas town.In those moments, give me sense.

Michael P. Carriger

Look Out, Here Comes the Gen-X Church

I enjoyed reading Evans blog yesterday on Gen-X and the way we do church today. It is obvious that the new generation has some very different ideas about “how to do church”. I am glad they do. If we are to meet the needs of people in the world today, we must change the way we are delivering the message to a generation that cares less about structure and tradition and are more concerned about small groups, informal fellowships, relationship development and the truth of God’s Word.

This generation of 18-35 year-olds meets in coffee shops, warehouses, fast food restaurants, industrial complexes, parks and other convenient places. Church buildings are not one of the most favorite places for Gen-X’ers to meet. It’s a turn off to the majority of Gen-X individuals seeking Christ. Most of them are not associated with denominations because they feel that traditional churches don't have much to offer.

Generation X is the largest the world has ever seen, with a population of approximately 2 billion, including 80 million in the United States. "The young people of today, in 10 years or less, will be the society of the nations. That's why it’s so important to look at current ministry design and implement new outreach strategies that will highlight this groups strengths and needs.

What will we do at Central to help the Gen-X group feel like they are a part of the body?

Everybody Needs Jesus

A patron of our community visited with me last week about the random school shootings across the United States. She has concerns about the troubles of society. How can a man after twenty years of anger and hostility decide to take out all his frustrations on innocent little girls by shooting them one by one in the head?

Evan talked a few weeks ago about that aspect of inner peace that can only be found in Christ.

Would that individual that decided to shoot the Amish girls acted any different if Christ was that inner peace in his life? Would that man that shot and sexually assaulted the girls in Colorado acted differently if he had enjoyed living a Christian life? Would the boy have shot the principal in Wisconsin if he had been active in a youth group with other Christian young people?

I would say we wouldn’t be discussing these evil acts if they would have found Jesus.

We cannot keep our schools 100% safe. We can’t make our shopping malls, airplanes, and skyscrapers 100% safe in a world that has been impacted by Satan and worldly lusts and desires.

All we can do is keep preaching the Good News about Jesus and the true peace He offers all those that accept Him as Lord of their lives.

Order of Worship (October 22)

Order of Worship
Sunday, October 22, 2006

Announcements

Welcome

Call to Worship

Leader: Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belongs wisdom and might.
All: He changes times and seasons, he removes kings and sets up kings;
Leader: He gives wisdom to the wise, and knowledge to those with understanding;
All: He reveals deep and mysterious things;
Leader: He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him.
All: To you, O God, we give thanks and praise.
Leader: Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever.


27 Blessed Be Your Name

72 Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty

24 Blessed Be the Name of the Lord (twice)

39 Awesome Power

Prayer

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:23-25

“For I received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which he was betrayed took bread; 24and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, This is my body, which is for you: this do in remembrance of me. 25In like manner also the cup, after supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood: this do, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me”

335 In Memory of the Savior’s Love

366 By Christ Redeemed

Communion

Contribution

781 Thank You, Lord (During Contribution)

Dismiss 2x2 Class

Lord Take Control Medley
789 Father
790 Lord Take Control
791 On Bended Knee

Message: Evan Burdan

Invitation: 792 My Eyes Are Dry (twice)

Closing Announcements

Closing Prayer

Call to Worship

As we enter into worship, put away the pressures of the world that ask us to perform, to take up masks, to put on brave fronts.

Silence the voices that ask you to be perfect.

This is a community of compassion and welcoming. You do not have to do anything to earn the love contained within these walls.

You do not have to be braver, smarter, stronger, better than you are in this moment to belong here, with us.

You only have to bring the gift of your self, no matter how able; your seeking mind, no matter how busy; your heart, no matter how broken.

Bring all that you are, and all that you love, to this hour together.

Let us worship together.

Erika Hewitt

Elders/Deacons Meeting Minutes (October 17)

Central Church of Christ
Shepherds/Deacons Meeting Minutes
10-17-07

Present:
Rex Allen, Evan Burdan, Steve Shatto
Roger Hamm, Mike Farrar, Joe Todd
Gary Souder, Kurt Johnston, Steve Toillion
Bryan Phillips, Carl Wheeler

Presiding: Roger Reading Titus 2:11-15
Opening prayer: Steve T

Treasurer’s report: Ed McCoy
Average contribution for the year: 6,534.77
Total Assets: 134,276.54

Steve T. suggested we consider separating the building fund from the maintenance work that will be done to the new church property.

Bryan to check on the tax consequences of renting the acquired house for a short period of time.

Joe summarized the deacons meeting last month. They mainly talked about budget items for 2007

Steve T. gave an update on the building committees work. The cost of a dream structure at the new property is over 11 million dollars. Alternative building plans are being looked into that will cut the cost dramatically.

Roger brought up some concerns over too many people giving spontaneous announcements. All agreed that we need to have some guidelines concerning content and frequency of announcements.

Steve T suggested that we change the calendar structure in our News & Notes and bulletin to reflect one continuous calendar rather than individual group calendars.

Kurt expressed some concerns over the rush of serving communion from the back. He felt we need to take time to focus on what we doing and not hurry people who are being served.

Carl said he and the worship committee are working on an interesting service for November 1st when Evan will be out of town.

Joe has a ceiling contractor coming in a few days to fix the ceiling tile in the auditorium. Joe has been picking up people for sometime now and has agreed to expand his route to accommodate an additional family for a while.

Rex reported on the program change for the Search Program. It has been moved to Channel 43 (Fox) on Sunday mornings at 7:30am because of a scheduling problem with WIBW.
Rex brought up the fact that it would probably be better to lead more than one verse for the invitation song.

Roger gave us to summary of the direction the children’s ministry is going and some proposed physical improvements being considered for the nursery.

Gary commended Joe and Mark Cox for the recent carpet laying in one of our classrooms. Comments were made about how so many do so many things behind the scenes that most people don’t know about. Case in point the new paint work in the 2X2 room by Wayne Brown and Ken & Cherie’ Burkhart. It is now a happy room.

Anthony Drieling family needs some help moving next Thursday. 10-26-06

Sharon Easterling is going to do some library work in our building and eventually link our resources to our web site.

Closing prayer: Carl Wheeler

Hymn Three (Unsung)

Thinking about it—not often enough—I forget You.
Though vast (the vastest), always there (the most always there),
I obsess instead
on a conflated mass of endless incidents, a slew
of distractions, and me, ambivalent me, with my Sunday stare
and already dead

attention span. All of this is to say, I know better, but…
I’ve thought You up white-bearded before
robed in light,
a diadem of universes blinding, even in a glut
of dreams, these earthly eyes, and more—
Your might

and mercy mixed as a different kind of father. Still, You may
be all mist and presence. Ineffable bone-deep feeling.
Whichever way
I choose to see and say I know, You merit time. Stay
near me, God, even when I don’t stop another day’s reeling
for one simple, honest hymn today.

Michael P. Carriger

Emotional Blog

I appreciated the positive e-mail comments yesterday from the blog on emotions and worship. Sounds like many in the Church have struggled with this subject for many years.

I often think about the early Church in Acts 2. What was worship like? Just starting out. New, vibrant, fresh, reflective, uplifting, encouraging and powerful because of the resurrection of Christ? I bet they didn't make announcements! I would imagine it was very emotional.

I want a Church where we can be expressive in our worship to our Father. Where hurting people can experience the touch of the Savior. Where those that are happy and thankful can praise God for the positive things happening in their lives.


"I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord; the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together."
Psalm 34:1-3

Emotions

Being raised in the Church of Christ, I was always brought up in a Church that rarely ever showed emotion during the corporate worship time (except at youth rallies).

Although the lively, expressive worship of the ancient Hebrew culture may look outwardly different in many respects from our worship today, there is no indication in Scripture that we should check our emotions at the door when we gather to worship God.

But what should that emotional expression look like? When do our emotions cease being an evidence of a worshiping heart and start becoming a hindrance or distraction? Also, what is the line between wholehearted worship and worshiping our emotions? These are important questions for the people of God. Because we desire to do everything for God's glory, we must seek to understand how our emotions should function in corporate worship.

I am not advocating that everyone has to lift their hands and clap to the songs in worship but I do believe that we might have lost a part of our worship experience that God deserves because we have been so concerned that we might be worshipping like a denomination and have held back the emotional side of us as human beings that God deserves from us in our worship.

When we sing the song “Nearer Still Nearer” it brings tears to my eyes. Thinking about those words to that old 1898 hymn allows me to draw closer to the Creator of the Universe because of His love for me he gave His only Son at Calvary. The tears flow when I think of those words and the Holy God that will shelter me from all harm.We must acknowledge that emotional engagement with God in worship is not an issue of temperament, but obedience to His Word.

Half-hearted worship is no worship at all. Whether we consider ourselves outgoing, reclusive, or somewhere in between, God is to be desired above all things. As we encounter the truth about God in a fresh way, we are to respond accordingly, whether it be in delight, peace, awe, or comfort. These are all natural responses that flow from a genuine relationship with the living God. Emotional expression is not a matter of self, but of mutual edification. Although biblical worship can involve a wide range of emotional responses, we are guided and restrained by the scriptural injunction to behave toward other Christians only in ways that build them up: "Make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification" (Romans 14:19).

My understanding is that in showing love to my brother, I am showing love to God. Our knowledge of God and His grace is meant to inspire a greater passion for Him. Likewise, the experience of joy as we worship God provokes a thirst to know Him better.

No two individuals are affected the same in worship. We all come from different backgrounds, races, parts of the world, and even come to worship with different “baggage” and trials. We all will respond differently in our worship to God based on our emotional being.

We need to remember to love our God with our whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. For the wonders of creation, for the miracle of the new birth, for the sacrifice of His only Son in our place, for the peace of His sovereign care, for the blessing of His Word -- for all these and infinitely more, God deserves our highest, purest, and strongest emotions.

"But the hour is coming, and now is, when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." John 4:23-24

Elders Meeting Minutes (October 11 and 12)

Shepherds meeting notes for October 12, 2006.

A time of prayer. Your shepherds spent most of their time re-assessing how best to achieve the works (goals) that Christ has set out for all of us. Christ's goals for us don't change.so our discussion centered on what is the best way, knowing our resources, strengths and areas to improve, to accomplish our A B C's here at Central. More to come.

Without a doubt your shepherd's best assets are their wives. So we took time to just listen to them and heard from their perspective their thoughts for fully engaging the Central body to be unified in achieving our goals. We felt that was time well spent.so if you have comments on how the Central body can do better, remember, we will always have time to listen. Keep your shepherds in your prayers; we're praying for you.


October 11, 2006 shepherds meeting notes.

Your shepherds took the full meeting time to pray for the Central family in very specific ways and raising members up by name.

This is a brief summary of those prayers.

a.. Jerry - for the wonderful families and members that call Central their family. Also for the families and individuals that have challenges as they just try to do the right thing. He asked that the Father help us all in a special way.

b.. Bill - for the children and young people as they have so many distractions as they try to grow spiritually.

c.. Rex - for the sick, hurting, shut-ins and aging members (so many by name).

d.. Roger - for the active, working members at Central that just get it done.day after day, week after week. He prayed that the workers would not tire and would be encouraged to do more and more. Also for those who are not actively engaged, that they will want to do better and for unity of the church of Christ in Topeka.

e.. Gary - for wisdom, discernment and insight for the shepherds and that God will guide us in His direction.

Please be praying for us as we discuss direction for the Central body.

Worship Music Today

In my lifetime, I have been blessed to see the church go through some much needed changes in the aspect of music style in worship. The contemporary music change in the Church of Christ today, I believe, has encouraged our younger generation to stay within the fellowship. Music is everything with our young people today. It is the fabric of their society. Just talk to teens today, all aspects of their lives are wrapped up in music. From I-Pods to CD's to you name it, music plays an important part in their lives.

How about worship music? I believe God teaches us to sing and make melody in our hearts as He wants desperately for us to give Him our hearts in the corporate worship setting. I am thankful that we have had some leaders in the church today that have written new worship songs that have focused on God and less on ourselves.

Many of the songs written 50 years ago emphasize us instead of God. Go through the older songbooks and see the changes that have taken place.

One of my hobbies is collecting old hymnbooks. As I go through the pages of many older books, I see songs that were written about us and not about God.

Not all new songs are Biblical either. As worship leaders and as worshippers, we need to examine the words of many of the songs that we sing to our Father.

Worship is the highlight of my week. I can't wait to be with my brothers and sisters and have the opportunity as a family to worship our God. I pray that our worship this Sunday will be an opportunity to praise the Creator of the Universe and give Him all glory that He is due. As Josh leads us in worship, sing with all your heart and think about the great blessings He has given all of us as children of His.

Psalm 100
"Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing. Know that the Lord Himself is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. For the Lord is good; His loving kindness is everlasting, and His faithfulness to all generations"

Hymn Two (Unsung)

Hymn Two (Unsung)

October again. Sunflowers cease their brash yellowing show.
Oaks and ashes flicker modestly in cool winds, whipping through town.
Sumac is coming red.
Each Monday more fields turn under—stubble and muted furrows
pressed low to morning skies. The morning heaves with no sound
save our own prayer, whispered, said.

Like the mid-day tolling of an unseen bell, O LORD,
like soft patter of drops on a dry, acrid window,
my meaty heart tightens.
Like roiling clouds, an autumn squall, the grey scud roar,
like the hidden twilight on horizon peeking, trying to grow,
to brim and brighten

another day before another night, First Artist, Fall Creator,
You animate dead flesh, breathe spirit into a tired night-mind.
In me, sunflower and sumac meet.
You wed them in pure autumn union always greater.
Morning forgotten. Day, now through. Even night falling behind—In color and contrast, shape and line, I, Your living landscape, complete.

Michael P. Carriger

1st Century Church or a 1st Century Jesus

I attended a discussion on leadership at the Zoe Conference on Saturday for Elders presented by Dr. John York, a Bible Professor, at Libscomb University. It was very informative and made me think about direction and purpose not only for my personal life, but the Central Family.

One session centered on working with the body and individuals of your church in situations such as divorce, sexual orientation issues, addictions and other deep personal issues.

Dealing with these subjects over the years, many elderships across the country have made decisions and judgments based on the judicial method. Going to the Bible or examining past practice (traditions). Many individuals searching for Christ never believed they had a chance because of past issues in their personal lives. They believed they could never receive the grace and forgiveness that could be found in Christ.

Another ingredient, in any decision-making process, is the need to examine the individual's circumstances. When you look at the relational side of an individual, you begin to realize that the situation might warrant further review and discussion on what might be best for the individual or individuals involved other than just condemnation and throwing the erring brother or sister out in the cold. Did Jesus practice this method? He looked at the individual in light of God’s Word and told them “to go and sin no more”.

I am thankful that I work with an eldership that looks at the individual and tries to help them in all ways possible to understand the situation and the sin in their lives and allow God to change and work on their hearts.

An elder in our discussion group made a comment that I have been constantly thinking about the past two days, “I don’t want to be the Church of the 1st Century, I want to be Jesus of the 1st Century”.

We need to ask ourselves what Jesus would do in situations. What would he do to help individuals battle sin and despair and allow them to rebuild their lives and begin life a new.

He took the time to become involved in people’s lives.

As Evan would say, "ministry in messy."

Zoe Weekend Wrap-Up

It was a great weekend in Nashville. Many things running through our minds after being challenged this past weekend by some of the greatest religious minds of the brotherhood. It was great to see so many York friends and Kevin and Iris Riggs from the group Hallal at the Worship weekend.

Otter Creek was a great worship experience on Sunday. A capacity crowd of about 1,500 filled their auditorium. Great singing and we heard great preaching from my former YC Professor
Dr. Tim Woodroff, minister at Otter Creek.

Carl and I will be sharing blogs in the coming days on the weekend events.

For now a little rest would be nice.

Zoe Conference Update #2

Last night was another incredible worship time. When you have tears flowing down your cheeks because you don’t deserve to be in the presence of the Creator of the Universe you know that it has been a very special time.

As I look back on the weekend, I am thankful for Gods love. That He believed in me enough to offer a sacrifice that one day I can actually be in His presence around the throne worshipping at his feet.

After last night, it’s hard to put into words the feelings and thoughts that I have. I will be sharing some of the lectures, highlights and worship experiences in my blog the next few weeks to describe what we experienced in Nashville.

We will worship at Otter Creek this morning and head back later on today. Please pray for us as we fly back to Kansas.

Zoe Conference Update

Amazing evening of praise!

The Zoe Conference is again a blessing for all those in attendance.

About 1,500 worshipped last night for over 4 hours. Felt like 30 minutes.

Please keep us in your prayers as we head back on Sunday evening.

Zoe Conference

We leave today for the 10th Annual Zoe Look to the Hills Worship Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.

The 2006 Look to the Hills Conference theme this year is Closer.

The theme of being Closer to God is the desire of our hearts and the longing of our souls. The intimacy we seek in many inappropriate places can in truth only be found in the God of heaven and earth.

Please be praying for Carl, Josh, Sharron, Rob and I as we travel and as we seek ways to enhance our congregational worship time.

I am looking forward to three days of worship with about 2,000 people from all over the country.

Elders Meeting Minutes (October 4, 2006)

As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders' Meetings. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/

October 4, 2006

Elder of the Month: Roger Hamm.

Roger led us in prayer.

Items Discussed:

a.. Your shepherds took time to review some preliminary cost estimates for the current proposed building project. The estimates were higher than anticipated and the building committee will want to take another look at the project. Several options were discussed for funding the new facility. You should know that your shepherds are carefully trying to balance "stepping out on faith" with what we can realistically afford. We feel servicing a large debt load is not wise stewardship.

b.. Your shepherds are confident the mission works supported by the Central Church of Christ are worthy of our continued support. The following missions will be receiving the same level of funding for 2007: Barry Bergsten (Prison Ministry); Emporia State University Student Center; Max Dauner (France); Niranjana Rao Mathi (India); Paul Kee; Predisan; Raja Sekhar Mathi (India); Russel Bell (India); Search of the Lords Way; Tallgrass Christian Camp; and World Bible School.

c.. Addition line items will be budgeted for our members who want to go on mission trips. Historically, Central has been able to help its members, usually $500 per person, with the cost of worthy mission trips. $6,400 will be set aside for such trips.

d.. Central family - you should know, Mike Wright has offered to help with any Bible studies you set-up. Thanks Mike!

e.. Your shepherds are planning a work session on Thursday, October 12 to discuss 2007 plans as well as 5-10 year direction. Please pray for your shepherds in this effort.

f.. Men's retreat at Tallgrass coming Oct. 20-21. Encourage all men to attend.

g.. David has been networking with youth ministers in the region as we try to get a feeling for which direction we want to take in our minister search.

Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families.

The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Rex) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.

Meeting concluded at 10:30 p.m.

Hymn One (Unsung)

I am very excited to be sharing with the Central Family each Wednesday a series of prayers, hymns and psalms from my brother Mike Carriger. Mike is an English Teacher/Chairman of the English Department at Lawrence High School, teaches college classes and is a member of the Southside Church of Christ in Lawrence. Mike is only a few months away from receiving his PhD in English from the University of Kansas. Mike will be sharing his inner feelings with us in a variety of modern day psalms.

Hymn One (Unsung)

We glimpse an awful depth. A flim-flam drudge and worry
empty us, past many yesterdays through which we fought, coasted.
Now vacant with a hollow moan—
cars lurch in ant rows. Coffee brews. Din. Red eyes press the screen flicker and hurry
nearer icons, streaming dreams, lists to-do, messages sent, deleted, re-posted.
It’s in our bones,

spreading. LORD, it’s spreading. Arbitrary mechanical progressions—the tick,
the thought, the think, already thought, gained, never-gained—the tock.
Man’s aged-old panic, a life lost.
Some creek once fished. A bike splayed on a front yard—the click,
The freezer’s slice of wedding cake. The dusty veil and lace under bed—the clock.
Hope, regret, fond memory at a cost.

On You, LORD, we lock our eyes. We set our soul’s sweet time.
With finely-tuned precision we simply say take us when,
by and by, You
want, see fit. This rock still spins ever-shaky, warbling, sublime.
We rarely sense the crisis-moment’s jilt, lunge, and creak. It’s then, for service, we ask more days, maybe a few.

Michael P. Carriger

What Is Happening in our Society?

What in happening in our society?

What in the world is going on? It seems that when it rains, it pours. School shootings (Colorado/Wisconsin/Pennsylvania), cop shootings, terrorism, bizarre sexual assault cases...What in the world is going on? Why do tragedies seem to occur all at once?

The most civilized country in all the world has serious problems.

The only way to fix it.......is to place God back in our culture society and way of life.

Mentor

Mentors I have so many special individuals that have shaped my philosophy of life and my faith.

My years at York College were some of the greatest moments in my life. It was a time where, as I look back, some of the greatest thinkers in the Churches of Christ of today were actually just starting their teaching careers and I benefited greatly hearing these individuals on a daily basis. Men like Tim Woodruff (Minister at the Otter Creek Church in Nashville), Mike Westerfield (President of Rochester College), Dennis Lynn (Past President of Cascade College), and James Hinkle (Minister and Counselor in Dickson, TN) just to name a few.

James Hinkle was my Bible professor at York College. James was a great teacher. He was full of energy and excitement. He wrote his own textbooks for his Bible courses. He made God's Word so easy to understand, but so exciting that you never wanted to miss a class. We always sang the same song to start out his class "Come we that love the Lord" and then we prayed. James was always interested in his students. He always took time to listen to concerns and build relationships.

When I returned to York to teach in 1995, I really began to get to know James and his family. James and I always had hit it off because he loved basketball. When I was playing for York he was always one of my biggest supporters. When I returned to York he helped me in many ways as I coached the girl’s programs. He was always there helping in any way possible.

But the most enjoyable time we spent together was what was called "Noon League". This was where the teachers and staff played basketball at lunchtime every weekday. I loved that time of the day. You really get to know people when you’re throwing elbows at former teachers and are also on the receiving end. Sometimes it got so heated (playing with these Bible Profs) we would have to stop and pray and ask God to give us patience and not retaliate against each other. James loved to play. He always played at 100%. He was a good player who was fast and you hated playing against him when he guarded you. He had ways to keep you from getting the ball and you always ended up with scratches and blood pouring from some body part. I liked his aggressive style.

Today, James is a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor at the Walnut Street Church of Christ in Dickson, Tennessee.

James, thank you for making such an impact on my life. You and your family were so kind to Debbie and I just starting out in our married life. Thank you for your Godly teaching, preaching and example that you have been to so many people. You were one of my early mentors that shared a message about Christ that has changed my life. May God continue to bless you and your family in your important ministry.

Order of Worship-October 1

Order of Worship
Sunday, October 1, 2006

Announcements-Roger Hamm

Worship Leader-David Carriger

144 O Worship the King

153 Come, Let Us Worship and Bow Down

66 Doxology

77 Glorify Thy Name

Prayer

Scripture: John 3:14-17

337 Hallelujah! What a Savior

Communion

Contribution

Dismiss 2x2

538 My Hope is Built on Nothing Less

Message-Evan Burdan

Invitation: 567 Restore My Soul

Announcements-Roger Hamm

Closing Prayer

Byron Nelson Dies at 94

Legendary golfer Byron Nelson, a faithful church member, dies at 94

By Bobby Ross Jr.The Christian Chronicle

Legendary golfer Byron Nelson, a lifelong Church of Christ member known as much for his gentlemanly conduct as his 52 PGA Tour victories, died Tuesday at age 94.

Nelson died at his Roanoke, Texas, home, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Richland Hills church.

"We've lost a great man," Abilene Christian University President Royce Money said of Nelson, a former ACU trustee who long supported the university's golf program. "Byron Nelson was a wonderful Christian example whose life had a profound and lasting impact on everyone he met."

Nicknamed “Lord Byron,” Nelson established one of the most enduring records in sports when he won 11 straight tournaments — and a total of 18 — in his remarkable 1945 season.

In an interview with The Christian Chronicle at his home last year, Nelson discussed his commitment to attending services every Sunday and Wednesday night, using a scooter to maneuver his way through the crowd.“I wouldn’t know what to do without being at church,” Nelson, a member of the Richland Hills church, told the Chronicle. “The good Lord blesses me every day.”For Nelson – who is survived by his second wife, Peggy – The Streak more than six decades ago always seemed less important than what he accomplished afterward.For 39 years, he hosted the EDS Byron Nelson Championship, his namesake PGA Tour event. In recent years, the tournament at the Four Seasons Resort in Las Colinas generated more money for charity than any other PGA tournament.In all, it has raised more than $82 million for Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers, which provide education and mental health services for thousands of Dallas area children and their families.“It has become the best thing that has ever happened to me in golf, better than winning the Masters or U.S. Open or 11 in a row,” Nelson wrote in his 1993 autobiography, “How I Played the Game.”The reason: “Because it helps people.”

For those who knew Nelson, that attitude epitomized how he approached life.In the Chronicle story last year, Richland Hills preaching minister Rick Atchley said Nelson played Santa Claus in the church Christmas program and taught a class for teenagers.But Atchley said his favorite memory came soon after Nelson placed membership there.“I heard someone calling my name with great eagerness,” Atchley said. “I turned around, and there was Byron, about 90 at the time, walking between the pews on two canes as fast as he could get to me.“When I asked what the rush was, he said he just wanted me to know how blessed he was by the sermon. That’s pure Byron — not impressed with himself, but letting you know that he is impressed with you.”

When the Hilltop church started in Roanoke several years ago, it had no baptistery. So, when a young couple accepted Nelson’s offer to baptize them, he called a nearby congregation in Justin.“He does not have good knees, but I have seen him take people and baptize them when he didn’t feel terribly good,” James Vinzant, minister of the Alliance church in Justin, said last year. “But he did it because he loves the Lord so much and he loves the church so much.”

Nelson’s Church of Christ roots ran deep.His mother, Madge Allen Nelson, who lived to be 98, was a Bible student and teacher. Raised a Baptist, she became a Church of Christ member at age 18. His Presbyterian father, John Byron Nelson Sr., was baptized in a Church of Christ soon after meeting the golfer’s mother. Byron Sr., who died at 77, later served as an elder at the Roanoke church. Nelson was born Feb. 4, 1912, on his family’s cotton farm near Waxahachie, Texas. By age 11, his family moved to Fort Worth, where a bout with typhoid fever dropped his weight from 124 pounds to 65. Somehow, he survived, but his high fever left him unable to have children.Soon after his baptism at age 12, he started caddying at Glen Garden Country Club. By age 14, he beat another future legend — Ben Hogan — to win the Caddie Championship.Eight years later, while working as a golf pro in Texarkana, Texas, he met a tiny brunette with pretty brown eyes during Sunday school at the Walnut Street church. Louise Shofner, the daughter of longtime church elder D.A. Shofner, would become his wife of 50 years. In his early years, Nelson made barely enough to live. In 1936, he earned $750 by winning the Metropolitan Open. But during the tournament, he couldn’t afford to eat in the clubhouse. Instead, he sat outside, eating a hot dog and drinking a Coke.After that tournament, Nelson was offered $500 to endorse a cigarette called 20 Grand. Never a smoker, he resisted the offer. But needing the money, he finally agreed.“I didn’t realize (that) it meant so much,” he told the Chronicle. “In about a month after the ads broke, I got the worst mail I’ve ever gotten, from Sunday school teachers, from school teachers. ... Well, I was just mortified.”When the cigarette company refused to take back its money, he said, “I toughed it out and I prayed about that more than any one thing. That shows what God will do for you. I promised him that I would never do anything like that again.”

While he played on Sundays, Nelson said he always found a way to attend church services, either in the morning or at night. “People say, ‘How in the world did you go to church?’ And my answer to that is, you can do things that you feel you need to do.”

When Louise died in 1985 after suffering two severe strokes, Nelson was devastated. But soon afterward, he said, God blessed him with a second wife. He had first met Peggy Simmons — 33 years his junior — at a charity golf tournament in 1981.Several years ago, a golf fan looking for Nelson’s ranch near Fort Worth stopped at the Roanoke Church of Christ and asked if the “janitor” knew how to get there. Much to the fan’s surprise, the man sweeping the church floor smiled and replied, “Yes, that’s where I live.”Last year, that story drew a chuckle from the 93-year-old Nelson, relaxing at his ranch house below a framed needlepoint of his winning 1937 Masters scorecard, parakeets chirping in his living room as cattle grazed outside his window.“A small church like that, the members take care of it,” he said simply.

Sept. 26, 2006

Elders Meeting Minutes (September 27)

As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/


September 27, 2006

Elder of the Month: David Carriger

Roger Hamm led us in prayer.

Items Discussed:

Considerable time was spent examining and discussing the Mission work supported by the Central Church of Christ. Budget figures were discussed for the 2007 fiscal year.

Mission Support currently has a budget of $24,080 for 2006.

Current Mission support goes to the following: Barry Bergsten (Prison Ministry); Emporia State University Student Center; Max Dauner (France); Niranjana Rao Mathi (India); Paul Kee; Predisan; Raja Sekhar Mathi (India); Russel Bell (India); Search of the Lords Way; Student Mission Trips; Tallgrass Christian Camp; and World Bible School.

Discussion on possible additions of new mission efforts in Africa.

Elders had a good visit with Peter Manuel from Cape Town on Monday evening at the Lonard’s.

Elders wish to encourage our missionary efforts locally and also worldwide.

Discussion of a World Map being displayed at Central with our WBS and Mission efforts displayed.

Elders discussed the importance of our local mission efforts (Central Youth Ministries).

Discussion of a possible job description for an Involvement Minister.

Elders discussed goals and objectives for 2007. An Elders’ planning/work session will take place on Thursday, October 12 to discuss 2007 plans as well as 5-10 year direction.

Gary Souder led a prayer for God’s direction.

Need a volunteer to take over the laundry ministry. Cleaning of baptistery garments and kitchens towels. If anyone can help with this ministry contact Ruthann Souder.

Men’s Retreat discussed. Encourage all men to attend.

A pager has been given to the Elders for encouragement.

Rex Allen gave a report on a possible series of lessons focusing on “The Family Under Attack”.

Roger Hamm discussed the Children’s Ministry 2x2 Program that will be undergoing change in the near future.

Gary Souder discussed the Senior Saints meeting held on Sunday. Good meeting with many possible service projects and fellowship opportunities for the near future.

Gary Souder informed the group that the Drielings are moving on October 28 and will need some help.

David Carriger gave a brief Youth Committee report on upcoming activities. The York College Night was successful. Discussion on support for Youth in Action was discussed.

Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families

The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Jerry Myers) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.

Meeting concluded at 10:40 p.m.

Worship 24-7

As believers, we are all familiar with the word worship. We are called to worship in a worship service. We are worshipping when we are singing hymns together. We worship Him together in song. Yet, where does worship take place? Is it in a building? Hopefully. But, is this the only place? Is worship synonymous with Sunday mornings?

These are questions that I have wondered throughout my Christian life. Upon reflecting on the Word of God, and the meaning of worship in my own life, I have come to realize that the Scriptural meaning of worship is very different than what I once believed.

In John 4:24 we see that the act of worship is from our spirit. We are told to worship in spirit and in truth. John says that worshippers that worship in spirit and in truth ' are the kind of worshippers that the Father seeks'. Worship of the Almighty God is personal and expressed in many different ways. During his most trying time on Earth, Jesus was worshipping. Jesus worshipped by quoting Scripture in times of trial (John 4: 10). How often do we think of trials as an opportunity for worship? Quite rarely, I daresay. Paul told us to long for suffering (1 Peter 4:13). In times of trial we are taught to worship.

In worship we recognize what Jesus recognized in the desert, what Job recognized during his persecution, and what David recognized in his time of repentance. They knew that the Omnipotence, Omnipresence of Almighty God is UNCHANGING. We must recognize that it is not one's changing circumstances that should determine a heart attitude of worship. It is in times of suffering, as well as in times of blessings, that we are called to worship. The very passing of time signifies change. Yet, God is unchanging. Even though everything else is changing, He is not. Knowing this gives my heart a reason for worship!!

As I look at what Scripture has to say about worship, it is clear that worship is not just something that takes place on Sunday morning. Each day we are given new opportunities to worship the Lord with our lives and hearts.

How much richer our lives will be when we realize that worship is a daily heart attitude, and not just a congregational event. We can worship the Lord with every moment of our lives: be it while we are singing praises in the shower, or, quoting His promises throughout our busy day.

Focusing on the character and love of God will surely give each of us an unceasing motive for worship!

Kristene Diggins

Worshippers of the Cross (Part 3)

As Christians we have a daily victory because of the Cross. So many in our world are looking for true happiness, contentment in worldly ways.

Victory is only found through Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:55-58

55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58 Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

As Christians we have victory. Faith is the victory. The cross gave us victory.

Worshippers of the Cross (Part 2)

Why is the cross hated by several in the world today? Why do they hate the worshippers of the cross (Christians)? Three basic reasons:

1. It’s because of the Power that is found there.

See the Son of God died there to save a world from sin. He took all the filth, burdens and guilt on his back so we could be free from death and destruction. Only Jesus and his Father has that kind of power. Man likes to be powerful. In control. But if you wish to belong to Christ you have to give up that power and rely on him.

Colossians 2 talks about that power:

6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, 10 and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. 11In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, 12 having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.
13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, 14 having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. 15 And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

2. The Commitment That Must Be Made There

Jesus committed everything. He gave His life and we must also. Scares people to give up everything, to give up self.

Recent Newsweek poll was a little surprising. Americans and religion:
92% believe there is a God.
6% do not believe there is a God
2% said they didn’t know if God existed.

Atheism is not the problem in our society. The problem is with the 92% that believe there is a God, the majority do not have a relationship with Him. They have not made a commitment to accept His teaching and commit to live a Biblical lifestyle. God is not present in their lives.

Think about commitment in our society today?

Marriage
Family
Jobs
Respect for Authority
Respect for Self

Many just don’t want to make those types of commitments that must be made in their daily lives.

1 Peter 4:12-19 talks about the price of that commitment:

12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

3. Because it’s the only Hope the World Has

Hope is not found in a job. Not found in stuff. It can only be found in the Cross of our Lord and Savior.

People for the most part put their hope in themselves. They think that is what will carry them through life.

Thousands dieing each hour with no hope. Because they refuse to give up their self centered attitude and accept the cross as the only hope that man has.

I am so glad He was willing to die for us, to take our sins and nail them to the cross. I am thankful for the power and hope we have in Jesus Christ.

Worshippers of the Cross

Latest News: Al Qaeda militants in Iraq vowed war on "worshippers of the cross" and protesters burned a papal effigy on Monday over Pope Benedict's comments on Islam, while Western churchmen and statesmen tried to calm passions. The statement by an umbrella group led by Iraq's branch of al Qaeda came after the Pontiff said on Sunday he was deeply sorry Muslims had been offended by his use of a medieval quotation on Islam and holy war.

I was intrigued by the statement that they vowe "war on the worshippers of the cross". Are those of us that have a relationship with Christ included in that militant statement?

As Christians we don't worship the cross but we do worship the one who died on the cross. The one who preached peace, love, forgiveness, kindness, humility, trust and mercy, He is the One that I want to proclaim the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Strange, the one who preached peace as well as his followers who try to be peaceful being singled out. Why are men so afraid of Jesus? Why are they afraid of his followers?

This will be our theme for 4th Sunday Praise. Hope to see you Sunday Night at Central!

Elders Meeting Minutes (September 20)

Elders Meeting Minutes

As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be distributing minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings on a trial basis during the month of September. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Please give us feedback if you feel this is something that you would like to see continue on a regular weekly basis. Minutes will also be posted on the following web site: http://worshipreflections.blogspot.com/

September 20, 2006

Elder of the Month: David Carriger

Diana Carriger (representing the Building Committee) visited with the Elders about possible building plans for the future Burlingame property. Several questions were asked about building in phases and total square feet. Diana will visit with the architect and then visit once again with the Elders.

Gary Souder led us in prayer for God’s Direction.

Other Items Discussed:

Appreciated Mario Tobias speaking on Sunday evening. He would like to return once again and visit with the Eldership about “Hawks for Christ”.

A report was given on the Youth/Children’s Leadership Ministry Meeting held on Sunday afternoon.

The York College Marriage Enrichment Seminar will be held on September 29-30. Several from Central will be attending. Vans will be taken to the seminar that weekend.

Rob and Sharon Easterling are interested in developing the Church Library for the congregation. They will be making a formal presentation to the eldership at a future date. Would like to see some money set aside in the 2007 budget for expansion of this needed ministry.

The Elders appreciate the amount of time and hard work the Search Committee performed over the past several months.

Men’s Retreat at Tallgrass will be held October 20-21. Kurt is working on a brochure to send out. Mike Farrar is the coordinator of this event.

Bill Carriger discussed the possibility of a High School retreat at Tallgrass in October. Will be visiting with Chris Stewart from Southwest to coordinate dates and time.

The 5th Sunday Singing on October 29 will be held at Tallgrass. Singing will begin at 4:00 p.m. with the Open House beginning at 3:00 p.m.

The storage unit is currently at Tallgrass.

Mission work was discussed. Appreciate receiving the good news of work in India and France on a regular basis. It was decided to send $200 to help with the storm damage in India.

Encourage members to participate in the Monday 4 the Master Program.

Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families

The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Rex Allen) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.

Meeting concluded at 9:40 p.m.

A Nugget

If you can start the day without caffeine; if you can get going without pep pills; if you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains; if you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles; if you can eat the same food every day, and seem happy about it; if you understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time; if you can take criticism and blame without resentment; if you can ignore a friends limited education and never correct him, if you can conquer stress without medical help--then you're probably the family dog.

I Can See

I first noticed that my vision was getting worse when I hit 30 years old and I couldn’t focus very well at stoplights.

I remember driving in Wichita and I thought that stoplight sure is fuzzy. Didn’t really think that I needed glasses.

I made an appointment with an eye doctor and he told me the bad news, I needed glasses for my driving.

Our eyes are such special parts of our body.

Jo Pigg has struggled with her eyesight for a number of years. She has seen countless doctors trying to find ways that her sight might be restored. Even taking special injections so her eyes might improve.

Debbie and I know an older lady named Edna a member of the Church in Osage City that is blind. Amazing what she can do without any sight.

I have had several blind students who have graduated and went on to be great college students and very successful in life.

Sight amazes me. I could never imagine not being able to see a morning sunrise or a sunset over the ocean. Or being able to see Debbie’s beautiful face or the day when my little boys were born.
Being able to see is one of the greatest blessings we have.

I have thought about the story in John 9 for the past few days. About Jesus healing a blind man.

John 9
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind

1As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"

3"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. 4As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."

6Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man's eyes. 7"Go," he told him, "wash in the Pool of Siloam" (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

8His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, "Isn't this the same man who used to sit and beg?" 9Some claimed that he was. Others said, "No, he only looks like him." But he himself insisted, "I am the man."

10"How then were your eyes opened?" they demanded.

11He replied, "The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see."

12"Where is this man?" they asked him. "I don't know," he said.

Great story of a man that Jesus blessed with a great miracle.

What’s sad about the story is the aftermath. What happens next? His friends who should be very excited instead take him to the Pharisees.

13They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man's eyes was a Sabbath. 15Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. "He put mud on my eyes," the man replied, "and I washed, and now I see."

16Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath." But others asked, "How can a sinner do such miraculous signs?" So they were divided.

17Finally they turned again to the blind man, "What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened." The man replied, "He is a prophet."

18The Jews still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man's parents. 19"Is this your son?" they asked. "Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?"

20"We know he is our son," the parents answered, "and we know he was born blind. 21But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don't know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself." 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for already the Jews had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ would be put out of the synagogue. 23That was why his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."

24A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. "Give glory to God," they said. "We know this man is a sinner."

25He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"

26Then they asked him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"

27He answered, "I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?"

28Then they hurled insults at him and said, "You are this fellow's disciple! We are disciples of Moses! 29We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don't even know where he comes from."

30The man answered, "Now that is remarkable! You don't know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. 31We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. 32Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he could do nothing."

34To this they replied, "You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!" And they threw him out.

This man just received the greatest gift one could ever imagine receiving sight. And no one was excited for him. They were too concerned about the petty issues revolving around the miracle.

Jesus now hears about what has happened.

35Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"

36"Who is he, sir?" the man asked. "Tell me so that I may believe in him."

37Jesus said, "You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you."

38Then the man said, "Lord, I believe," and he worshiped him.

39Jesus said, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind."

40Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, "What? Are we blind too?"

41Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.

Sight: For those that can’t see so important. But there is something much worse than being physically blind, and that is spiritual blindness. When people are spiritually blind they do not believe in Jesus or obey him. They have no relationship with Jesus. Those individuals are outside of Christ and can not share in the blessings that he can give us inside a relationship with him. But when people trust in Jesus to save them, they are given "spiritual eyes" to see God’s will for their lives. They are able to see and understand things about the world and about God that other people do not see and understand. Psalm 119:18 says, "Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." We must ask God for help for us to understand his ways more clearly. The good news is that God promises spiritual sight to those that ask for it!

We need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.

Hearthstone/Saturday 4 Savior/ Misc.

The ministry that has now gone on at Hearthstone for the past 8 years has been such a blessing to so many that live at that facility.

Our young people have blessed many residents over the years.

Last night over 35 from Central sang old and new hymns with the residents from Hearthstone led by our young men. I appreciate their servant hearts and willingness to lead praises to our Heavenly Father. Girls you are also a vital part of the ministry.


Thanks to the group that came out on Saturday evening for the Fall Saturday 4 the Savior. Carl and Mike did a great job reminding us about Jesus.


It's easy to just come and worship on Sunday morning. I want to encourage everyone to become a part of the body at Central. So many people have stepped up in so many different capacities in this transition period. God is being glorified and individuals are growing in God's Word. Individuals are praying about new ministries that they can begin or become involved in. Members are looking for ways to reach out. Central is exciting and I hope you become part of that excitement.


Be in prayer for Scott and Angie Smith as they work with our young people and Kathy Hamm as she leads the children's ministry. Encourage these servants daily!


May God continue to bless the work on the corner of Huntoon and College!

Saturday 4 the Savior

"Give Me Jesus" is the theme for our Fall "Saturday 4 the Savior" devotional this Saturday, September 16, at 6:00 p.m. Carl Wheeler will lead us in our worship and my brother Mike Carriger from Ottawa will be the speaker.

Don't forget to bring homemade icecream and desserts.

Give Me Jesus

In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise,
Give me Jesus.

Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.

O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
O, when I am alone,
Give me Jesus.

From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
From depths of sin I cry,
Give me Jesus.

O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
O, when I come to die,
Give me Jesus.

Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.

Give me Jesus,
Give me Jesus.
You can have all this world,
Give me Jesus.
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world,
But give me Jesus.

Copyright © 2002 by Majestic Eagle Publishing Co. Admin. by The Copyright Company. All rights reserved. Used by permission. Published by Worship Today Music Service 1 866-859-7622

Dennis Hogue

I met Dennis in 1982 when Debbie and I had just placed membership at the Emporia Ave. Church of Christ in Wichita, Kansas. I was a junior in college playing basketball for Newman University and had practice on several Sunday evenings and couldn’t attend evening services, but Debbie would always go by herself. Debbie visited with a Deacon at Emporia Ave. named Dennis Hogue one Sunday evening (without my knowledge) and told him that I led singing and could you ask David to lead some time. Debbie knew that I probably would not volunteer.

Dennis asked me the very next Sunday to lead the am worship. He hadn’t heard me, he didn’t know me that well. We had just moved from York College about three weeks earlier. I couldn't believe he had faith in this 20 year old rookie with his 300 member congregation on a Sunday morning.

That began a special relationship that I have had with a man who has been a very special spiritual mentor in my life. Dennis Hogue served the Emporia Ave. Church as the Worship deacon when we arrived in 1982. His family was a great blessing to that church. Dennis was a great worship leader. Not only did he have a great voice, but he had a great heart for worship. He always asked, “ what can we do to enhance our worship to God? What can we do to connect with God even more?” Dennis became my mentor. I watched him and listened to him in class settings and in worship opportunities to find out how to become a better worship leader. It was simple....you had to have a heart to worship God individually before you could ever lead a congregation in worship.

Dennis and his family moved to the Central Church in Wichita after we left Wichita and moved to Conway Springs. He has served that congregation as an Elder ever since. Dennis is battling brain cancer. He needs our prayers.

This man has been very special to me. He has been very special to God. He has been a catalyst for the cause of Christ in Wichita for over 30 years. Thank you Dennis for being that "giant of faith" in my life. You have given me more than I could ever describe. You trusted me. You had faith in me. You saw something that was in me that needed to be brought out. Thank you brother for being my mentor. I love you!

Gladys Dunn

Gladys Dunn was new in town and decided to visit the church nearest her. She liked the pretty auditorium, sincere prayers and the singing, but the sermon just went on and on. Worse, it wasn’t interesting or even relevant. Finally, it was over. After the service she turned to a sleepy-looking man next to her, extended her hand and said, “I’m Gladys Dunn.” He replied, “You and me both.”

9-11

“We come together today to affirm our conviction that God cares for us, whatever our ethnic, religious, or political background may be. The Bible says that He's the God of all comfort, who comforts us in our troubles. No matter how hard we try, words simply cannot express the horror, the shock, and the revulsion we all feel over what took place in this nation on Tuesday morning. September eleven will go down in our history as a day to remember.”

Dr. Billy Graham (9-11 Memorial Service)

Order of Worship-September 10, 2006

Order of Worship
Sunday, September 10, 2006

Welcome

103 He Has Made Me Glad

577 We Bow Down

578 We Will Glorify

Prayer

Scripture: John 6 verses 33 and 35.

286 Wonderful Story of Love (1st Verse Only)

18 Faithful Love

376 He Paid A Debt (1st Verse Only)

Lords Supper

Contribution

Dismiss 2x2

705 A Common Love (Twice)

Message Evan Burdan

Invitation 791 On Bended Knee I Come

Announcements

Closing Prayer

Elders Meeting Minutes (September 6)

September 6, 2006

Elder of the Month: David Carriger
Scripture: Romans 12:4-11
Prayer: Rex Allen

The Elders have been discussing and praying for the past several weeks about the future direction of the Central Church. The transition period between ministers has been a positive and growing experience for the Central Family. Individual members have taken on additional responsibilities in all aspects of ministry. A unified feeling of working together for the cause of Christ is evident here at Central.

The Elders visited with and discussed ministry plans and possibilities with Evan Burdan. The Elders have received very positive comments on Evan’s preaching and wish to continue the format of Evan preaching on Sunday mornings through the remainder of 2006. The Elders discussed with Evan his possible future roles in ministry here at Central.

Before Evan left the meeting, Gary Souder led us in prayer as we asked God to continue to bless Evan as he continues to preach God’s Word to the Central Church.

After much discussion the past few weeks, it was decided to ask Carl Wheeler (Search Committee Member) to contact the current applicants and inform them that at the present time Central will not be aggressively seeking a pulpit minister until after the first of the year. We are looking at possibly changing the ministry position to an Involvement Minister with a job description to be finalized by the end of the year. Also, those that might be interested in the Involvement Minister position are asked to re-apply.

Other Items Discussed:

Discussion on Goals and Objectives for the Central Church to be completed by January 1, 2007 and presented to the congregation.

Discussion on Elders/Deacons Meeting to be held on Tuesday evening.

Update on Youth Ministry. Appreciate the work that Scott and Angie Smith are doing.

Update on the Marriage Enrichment Seminar at York College (several from Central will be attending)

Discussion on Tallgrass Christian Camp. The storage container that is currently at the Burlingame property will be moved to Tallgrass.

The Children’s Ministry program is off and running for the fall quarter. Appreciate Kathy Hamm’s leadership and her committee that continues to work hard serving the needs of our kids. Appreciate the efforts of Angie Smith and Cheryl Newton during the VBS Celebration last Wednesday night.

Discussion on possibly running vans to pick up kids for Bible Class. More discussion at the Elders/Deacons meeting.

The Senior Scholarship program has been well received.

Discussion needed on Benevolence issues for September.

Jim Glass will be teaching Jerry Myers class this coming Sunday.

Elders visited the Burlingame property Saturday morning to look at the house and garage that was recently purchased.

Prayer for Hurting/Sick Members and Families

The Elders spent time in prayer (led by Roger Hamm) for individual family members that are hurting physically, as well as spiritually.

Meeting concluded at 10:30 p.m.

Communication Tool

As an additional communication tool between the Shepherds and the Central congregation, we will be including minutes from our weekly Elders’ Meetings in the News and Notes on a trial basis during the month of September. We hope to keep the Central Family informed of information items that might be of interest in ministry here at Central. Please give us feedback if you feel this is something that you would like to see continue on a regular weekly basis. We will also post the minutes on this blog each week.

Continue to pray for your Central Shepherds!

Plain, Simple, Clear

Sometimes when people communicate, it doesn’t always come across the way they meant it. For instance, check out these ads/headlines that are supposed to be true.

Lawyer says client is not that guilty.

Tired of working for only $9.75 per hour? We offer profit sharing and flexible hours. Starting pay $7-$9 per hour.

Then you have times where you have to guess at what happened, or you would like to know the rest of the story. For instance, look at these ads:

Nordic Track $300, hardly used, call Chubbie.

Snow Blower for Sale: Only used on snowy days.

Free Puppies: Part German Shepherd Part Dog.

2 Wire Mesh Butchering Gloves, 1 five finger, 1 three finger, Pair $15

Aren’t you glad God is clear and does not make us guess what the rest of the story is. He says clearly, things like; "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

Plain. Simple. Clear.

Rich Dolan

Medical Mission Trip

About 4 weeks ago Bill and Diana Carriger invited Craig to help with a Medical Mission Trip this February to Guana, South America. Debbie and I are excited and proud of him that he has decided to go and help with this important ministry.

Below is a letter Craig has written asking for your prayers as well as finicial support for this trip:

August 29, 2006

Dear Family & Friends,

God has given me the opportunity to go on a short-term medical mission trip to Guyana, South America, with VOSH (Volunteer Optometry Services for Humanity) on February 10-19, 2007. This team is affiliated with the churches of Christ. The team I will be working with will serve the poorest of the poor with spiritual and physical health care. Our team will provide free optometry medical care and free eyeglasses to many patients as we minister in Jesus' name.

I am writing to ask you to prayerfully consider joining our team through your support. First, please partner with me in praying for the people we will be serving, for my health and effectiveness as a team member, and for the many details of this mission trip.

Second, please consider supporting me financially for this outreach. The cost of this
ten-day trip is $2000. If you would like to join the team in this way, please make your check payable to Central Church of Christ, and put a note with it that has my name on it and VOSH Guyana Trip. It can be mailed to Central Church of Christ, 1250 SW College Ave., Topeka, Kansas, 66604.

Thank you for praying about being a vital part of the mission team.


Sincerely,

Craig Carriger

Sunday

Order of Worship
Sunday, September 3, 2006

Welcome

147 I Stand Amazed (Verse 1 and 4)
96 I Stand in Awe
100 Holy Ground

Prayer

Scripture: Zechariah 12:10;13:1 (#368 in the book)

325 Boundless Love (Refrain Only)
364 Come Share the Lord

Communion
Contribution

2x2 Class Dismissal

290 Shine Jesus Shine

Message (Evan Burdan)

Invitation 768 Jesus Let Us Come To Know You

Announcements

Closing Prayer

Football Season Begins

Friday Night Lights!

Everyone in small town across America during the fall turns out at the local high school football games. Beautiful fall weather, hot dogs, pop corn, the band, cheerleaders....it starts out exciting. Great expectations for a winning season. And then what happens? About 1/2 of the teams fall quickly because of losing seasons. The high expectations and goals that were set are quickly a thing of the past.

The Christian life is much like that. We have those high emotional lifts that really encourage us and then smack! A discouraging situation, an unkind word, it can change so quickly.

I enjoy the love that is shown at Central. Keep it up, plus as Roger always says, "do it more and more". We need to encourage each other daily. Building each other up. We know will have difficult times in our lives and for our Church family but we ought to be the happiest and most loving people on the face of the earth...........because we have a Savior that gave everything because we couldn't.

Enjoy the opening games tonight. And remember stay positive.....It's a long season!