Chandler F.U.M.C.
by Linda G. Keeling

"Don't think only of yourself. Try to think of the other fellow, too, and what is best for him." 1 Corinthians 11:24

We often believe as Christians that our lives should center on the Church and Church family, with limited opportunities for association with others from different religions or even those with no beliefs. Think of the number of churches that are including in their building plans, gyms, family entertainment centers, pools, even bowling alleys. While there is nothing wrong with these activities within the Church's program, does it really serve the mission of a Church by reaching out to those who do not believe? Remember, Jesus spent a significant amount of his time with those who were considered sinners. Even Paul taught that "If someone who isn't a Christian asks you out to dinner, go ahead, accept the invitation if you want to." (1 Corinthians 10:27). For as Christians we are to live a life dedicated not only to helping others, but to demonstrate through our own lives how wonderful it is to worship Christ and to follow his teachings.

Last Sunday the congregation was blessed with a performance from the Angelus Ringers, under the direction of Mrs. Lou Griffin. The members of the bell choir this year are Linda Pinson, Jill McGill, Deanna Pollard, Debbie Taylor, Mary Mire, Marla Pollard, Tina Burch, Barb Cade, Nancy Martin, Diana Keesey, Natalie Smith, and Tom Jones. In honor of Veterans Day, they played "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," which is the official hymn of the United States Navy. They were accompanied by Patti Long, on the keyboard. The second selection, "Just a Closer Walk with Thee" featured a guest soloist on the clarinet, Mrs. Michelle Stuckey, a member of the BHS band staff.

Plans are developing for the Nativity program, with live performances from both our volunteers and the animals. No camel, so far. The Nativity walk will require over 30 individuals, so be sure to sign up if you would like to participate. The program will be December 2nd and 3rd, from 6-8 p.m., and will be available for the whole community.

Remember the Charge Conference, where the Church reports, both the fiscal and program activities of 2007 to the District, will be held November 25 at 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. Church members are welcome to attend.

Sign-up for the Summer U.M. Army Camp is now. The camp will be the week of June 22, 2008. Adult space will be determined by the number of youth participation. Please call Kyle McGill if you have any questions.

The "Nothing but a Net" mission was a huge success. Marla Frederick reported that the youth from Chandler Methodist Church had raised over half of the total district amount. We should be proud! The number of people that will be protected from the deadly malaria, just from our Church alone, will be over 13 hundred people (4 to a net). That's good!

Happy Anniversary to: Freddie and Janice Cade, George and Becky Grantham, Chris and Billy Martin, Cliff and Mary Mire, Daniel and Dorothy Newsom, and Allen and Deanna Pollard. "A man without God is trusting in a spider's web. Everything he counts on will collapse." Job 8:14

Happy Birthday to: Dinah Hockman, Jeanette Irwin, Dan Saxon, John Adkins, Liz Killough, Patti Long, Diana Keesey, Christie Tallant, Daniel Herron, Callie Crossley, Maleri McHam, and Joseph Cherry. "Mere man is as likely to be wise as a wild donkey's colt is likely to be born a man!" Job 11:12

Thought for the Week: Have you heard the joke? "Want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans." God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end." Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, 11