The Blackwood Brothers Quartet was formed in 1934 with brothers Roy, Doyle, James and Roy’s son, R.W. Although the group would not contain any brothers after 1950, the quartet with James as the enduring nucleus, would go on to become the best-known quartet in the history of gospel music.

In 2002, James Blackwood moved on to his eternal reward, but his son, Jimmy (James Jr.) continues the 75-year tradition. The group today consists of Wayne Little and Randy Byrd, acclaimed the best tenor/bass combination in gospel music and Brad White baritone and piano showman. The result is one of the best quartets you will ever hear!

On Sunday, November 1, 3:00 p.m. we will remember those who have gone on before us to be with the Lord.  Not just family members are urged to attend. This memorial service will be a service of worship for both those in our church family and wider community.  This will be a special opportunity to remember those we remember and miss, especially as we enter the holiday season.  A reception will follow in the fellowship hall at 4:00 p.m.  Call the church office if you would like transportation to this meaningful time of worship.

Remodeling Proposal for Front of Worship Center

Current

On November 8 our church will meet to discuss and decide on this redesign that will significantly increase the amount of space.  This will allow more room for drama, music, preaching & teaching, and special programs.

Just a reminder that this Sunday, October 25, we will have Miss Iowa, Anne Michael Langguth, as our special guest in the 10 a.m. worship.  Among her talents is the violin and she will be sharing several songs with us.  You will be blessed as Anne shares her talent to glorify God.  So come join us for worship this Sunday, and bring a friend!

1.  Our Midweek Fellowship kicks off Wednesday, September 9 with supper at 5:30 and adult and children’s activities to follow at 6:00 p.m.  Let’s enjoy getting together again in this “back from the summer” event.

2.  There will be a baptism as part of our Sunday morning 10 a.m. worship on September 13.  Wah Moo, an 18-year-old, young man has accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior and will proclaim that through believer’s baptism.  The Karen choir will be singing during this part of the service.  This will be an inspiring event you don’t want to miss.

3.  The Men’s Fellowship Breakfast is “back from the summer” with a special trip to the Iowa Machine Shed for breakfast on Saturday, September 12.  As you may know, the Travel Channel rates this restaurant as one of the best in the country for breakfast.  The food’s great and the fellowship is even better. Meet at the church at 8:30 a.m.

4.  We continue to have visitors in our 10 a.m. Sunday morning worship.  Some leave contact info while others don’t.  If you get the chance send an email or note of welcome to Brandin Smith.  (smith.brandin@yahoo.com or 1837 -31st St A, Moline IL 61265).

5.  Our next Singspiration will include great ole time hymns as well as more contemporary choruses.   Also, several will be doing special numbers.  If you have a special number to share, let us know SOON.  All are welcome for this wonderful time of praise and fellowship on Sunday evening, September 27 (time to  be announced).  If you need a ride let us know.  We’ll even come pick you up!

Your pastors, Flint and Deb

As we gear up for the new church year, let us share a few reminders:

1.  Please come out and ENJOY our Friday night Drive-in movie.  We’ll have some special features along with the main show, The Sandlot, a movie classic about one summer in the life of a group of 12 year old boys who love to play baseball at the sandlot.  We’ll watch the movie in the PARKING LOT of the church from our cars with our car radios tuned in to the movie that will be broadcast on a specific frequency.  The youth will also be selling hot dogs, pop corn, soft drinks, and candy.  All the proceeds for the night will go to support youth mission trips.

2.  Our Wednesday night activities will resume on September 9.  Be looking for details in the bulletin and via announcements.

3.  Please be in prayer for our church as we approach the fall.  This is a crucial moment as we seek to move forward with God’s vision for our church.  Pray specifically that Christ will guide his body to work together for his glory with sensitivity to His leading.

Here are a few updates:

1.  This Saturday evening, June 20, we’ll show the film Fireproof: Never Leave Your Partner Behind.  Come see this inspiring film about marriage love and commitment.  Dinner will be served at 6 pm to be followed by the film.  Please make reservations by Thursday, June 18 by calling First Baptist Church Office (309-762-4581).  All are welcome.  Bring a friend!

2.  Our new Middle School Student Ministry kicks off this Sunday, June 21 with morning Bible Study at 8:45 am.  David and Michelle Graham will lead  this exciting ministry for grades 5 – 8.  Evening events will start on Sunday, June 28 at 6:30.  Come see the newly decorated Middle School Student Ministry Room, along with the new student game room with new Ping Pong, Air Hockey, and Rod Hockey (like foosball) games.  It’s sooooooo much fun!  Students, come hang out!

3.  Speaking of the new Student Ministry Game Room – come take a look.  This is for the students of our church, although I have a feeling that adults may try to check it out.  Our student ministry has planned an exciting summer calendar.  Many thanks to the leadership of Nicole Monson, our fantastic summer youth intern from Augustana College.  Nicole – you go girl!

4.  Son Rock Kids Camp has been a smashing success.  Our church has been packed with the energy of our campers all week.  Many thanks to Pam Crowe, Becky Layman and a fantastic staff of adults and teenagers.  Thanks for making this happen.  Son Rocks ROCKS!

Pam Crowe, Michelle and Aleya Graham

Sandy Claerhout teaches health

These crafts look good enough to eat (like Hershey's Chocate!).

5.  One last thing:  For the months of June and July, Praise Team Practice will move to 5:15 pm on Tuesday evenings.  This will allow those on both the Praise Team and the Softball team to do Praise Team at 5:15 and Softball at 6:30.

A few updates:

1.  The Kids against Hunger presentation, Wednesday,  June 10, 7 pm is for all but we especially want to encourage our mission board, the American Baptist Women, and the Wednesday night Bible study to attend.  This will be an information sharing time by John Kessler, local coordinator for Kids against Hunger.  Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about a way your group can impact starving children around the world.

2.  Beginning Monday, June 8th through Thursday, June 11th will be the Vacation Bible School Work Days.   Please help out in preparing crafts, getting supplies ready, painting posters and signs, etc.  Hours are 10 am to 3 pm.  No one will be turned away!

3.  Be thinking of who you might bring with you to Dinner and a Movie, Saturday, June 20 at 6 pm.  Fireproof : Never Leave Your Partner Behind is a film about marriage commitment that will encourage and inspire.  Make plans to join us and bring a friend.

4.  Remember softball will begin this Monday night, 6:30 pm at Riverside UMC field besides Hy-Vee on the Avenue.

5.  Our brown bag lunch and prayer time continues on Thursdays from noon to 1 pm.  Come enjoy this time of fellowship and prayer together.  We meet in the Seekers Classroom.

Youth Ministry Intern, Nicole Monson

Here are some updates:

1.  Introducing Nicole Monson, our summer youth ministry intern!  Nicole is a religion major from Augustana College with a calling and passion for youth ministry. As well, she has valuable experience working with youth.  Her personal motto is Acts 20:24, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me–the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” She will be building on the ministry of  Dave Mattison and Willie Phillis – devoted leaders who have served for many years in this area.  Let’s welcome Nicole and get behind her as she helps lead this vital part of our church’s ministry.  She starts tomorrow, May 31.

2.  Hey, check out the article in today’s Dispatch about the screening of Consuming Kids at our church tomorrow evening, Sunday, May 31.  The link is http://qconline.com/archives/qco/display.php?id=442045&query=Commercialization.  Be sure and bring your soup, salad or sandwich at 5 pm.  We’ll start the movie at 5:45 to be followed by a panel discussion led by Dr. Doug McCollum, psychologist, and your co-pastors.

3.  Flint and Debbie had a wonderful experience at the seminar, “Reaching People Under 40, while Keeping People Over 60″, led by Dr. Eddie Hammett, church growth consultant.  It was held at First Baptist, Bloomington and had 70 plus pastors and church leaders participating.  In the weeks to come, we’ll be sharing with you some of the things we learned.

4.  Upcoming Children and Youth Ministry Activities:  (a) Sunday, June 7, Youth led worship and graduate recognition; (b) Vacation Bible School kick-off on Sunday, June 14, 2-4 pm with VBS from Monday to Friday, June 15-19, 9-12 noon.  Please register your kids and invite others!

5.  Fireproof your marriage begins Saturday, June 20 with viewing of the movie at 6 pm, Fellowship Hall of our church.  Dinner will be at 5 pm with tickets for $5 each.  Childcare will be provided.  Please sign up in church office and invite a friend who would benefit from being a part.  Fireproof classes will start Sunday, June 21 and continue for 6 weeks.