Sunday, January 16, 2000
Sunday, January 16, 2000 |
The 2000 membership at the Fayetteville First Baptist Church are able to participate in any number of opportunities offered by the church. Though the congregation dates back to 1828, it has grown and prospered along with the county and offers such varied programs as choirs, missions and mission trips, Bible studies for all age groups and a drama team, to name a few. The Rev. Glenn Stringham is the church's pastor for seniors. Among the various senior activities offered, one can participate in Wednesday morning Bible studies (they are currently studying I and II Thessalonians), there is an exercise group three days a week and a group that visits local nursing homes. One seniors group just meets for lunch and to discuss any special needs of home-bound seniors; another group just meets for lunch, period, and there is one very special group, “The Nifty Nineties,” and yes, you have to be at least 90 years old to belong. There are 14 over-90 members in the church and six of those are still very active. The church also sponsors a singles mission, which plans programs for those who have never married, are single parents or are divorced. One program in particular is for single parents in which a car care service is provided, consisting of oil and filter changes, and checking the car's fluids, hoses, belts, tires and brakes. An extensive music program, led by the Rev. Steve Hester, is provided for all ages, ranging from the toddlers through the seniors. There are hand bell choirs and a small orchestra. Drama teams — one for youths and one for adults — provide not only entertainment at various programs but also are called upon by the senior minister, the Rev. Frank Ellis, to help him make a point. One of the mission programs the church is proud of is the venture to New York City each spring. At least 70 to 80 members go, each paying their own expenses, and the group will include youths and seniors. They will participate in such activities as teaching Vacation Bible School, conducting a basketball seminar, various construction work, putting on a dinner theater or holding block parties in a park, at which they feed as many as 700 people. The church pays for the supplies/materials needed. Completing the staff are the Rev. Jim Battles, who leads the youth ministry, and the Rev. Chris Perkins, who leads the families with children ministry. Between these five pastors, the church offers ministries for the whole family. Sunday morning services are at 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. The church can be reached at 770-461-8378. Its Web address is www.fayettevillefbc.org.
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