Metairie Baptist Missive — September 30, 2015

“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

          On Sunday, we were able to bring our study of Hebrews to a close as I preached the last sermon in the series on this letter. We were challenged to “continuously offer up a sacrifice of praise to God.” (Heb 13:15) Have you spent this week praising God for who He is and for the salvation He has provided for you, thanking God for His work in your life, and exhibiting your changed life through doing good for others – all as a part of offering up a sacrifice of praise? I encourage you to start each day with praise and to allow that habit to spread throughout your day as you continuously praise God!

I am thankful for the election of our four new deacons: Jim Brunson, Andrew Burns, Ken Koban and Errol Wilken. On Sunday, Oct. 11, we will have a Deacon Ordination service for Andrew and Ken (Jim and Errol have previously been ordained). This is a special time in which the church sets aside these men for the ministry and calling of being a deacon. Make plans to be a part of this service on Oct. 11 at 5:00 p.m. The ordained men are invited to be a part of the ordination council that afternoon at 4:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us for a reception given in their honor immediately after the ordination service.

I missed being with you on Sunday night. Business Meeting/Church Council is always one of my favorite meetings as we think forward about the ministry of Metairie Baptist.  A special thanks for Alan’s leadership throughout the meeting while I was traveling to Birmingham.

One of matters discussed at the meeting was the Fall Festival.  I am particularly excited as we approach this ministry opportunity. Each year we host the Fall Festival for our community as a safe way for them to enjoy Halloween and as a way for us to demonstrate in a tangible way our love for them. Begin now to pray for the event – and make plans to help! We will have trunk or treat, free food, and inflatables for the children. The Fall Festival will be on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. [The good news – this is a Saturday night which is followed with our being able to set our clocks back that night an hour and gain an extra hour of sleep!] You’ll have the opportunity to begin to sign up to help this week during our morning worship service by means of the tab in the bulletin. In addition, we will be providing flyers in the near future for your to utilize as you invite your friends and family.

We are sensing God’s direction in several areas of ministry opportunities. For those of you who were at the Business Meeting/Church Council, you heard of an opportunity to get involved in an international mission trip. We realize that not everyone will be able to go, but as an entire church we can support this trip and participate in one way or another. I encourage all of you to pray about God’s leadership in your life regarding this matter. If you would like more information, feel free to either contact me or the church office so we can get you in touch with Dale Garvin who is providing leadership for this ministry opportunity.

Our studies continue tonight. Join us at 6:10 p.m. for encouragement and direction in your walk with Christ. If you have been a part of the study, make continued attendance a priority! If you haven’t been able to join the studies yet, make tonight your first night – you are more than welcome and encouraged to join us. God is doing a great work in the studies. Each week I personally find myself challenged to become more like Christ, reminded of some areas of my life on which I need God’s help as He refines me, and encouraged by the mutual fellowship with others who are on the journey. These MasterLife studies have been some of the most meaningful studies in which I have had the opportunity to participate. God is utilizing them for life change!

I find it hard to believe that Christmas is coming upon us quickly! Don’t forget that Carol would like to invite you to be a part of the upcoming Christmas worship experience. Her invitation follows: It’s almost Christmas!  Yes, it’s that time of year again, when we begin rehearsals for the adult choir Christmas music.  We’ll be introducing the Christmas music for this year on Saturday, October 3.  We’ll listen to the music and rehearse from 10 am – noon in the choir room and then have lunch together in the fellowship hall.  You’ll also receive a book and listening CD at that time.  We would LOVE for you to sing with us!  If you can, please let Carol know you’ll be singing, so she can be sure to have enough books and CDs on hand and enough good food for lunch on the 3rd.  Don’t miss out!  And if you can’t join us on the 3rd, beginning on October 7th we’ll also begin using the first 15-20 minutes of each Wednesday choir rehearsal (more as we get closer to Christmas….) to learn Christmas music.  That means you don’t have to stay for the whole rehearsal if you’re only singing Christmas music.  So, please come and join us!

Our network and internet have been restored at the church! A special thanks to Jeff Aldridge for his many hours spent trying to resolve the myriad of issues. Please express your thanks to Jeff!

May God bless you today with a deeper understanding of His love for you as you live for Him!

On the journey,
Thomas

— Thomas Strong III, Ph.D.
Senior Pastor
Metairie Baptist Church
401 Codifer Blvd.
Metairie, LA  70005
504-835-2611
thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive — Sept 23, 2015

“The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!”

Psalm 97:1

               Good morning! I have great news for you – “The Lord reigns!” As you walk through this week, I pray that you’ll find great joy in knowing that He continues to reign and nothing will change that. Not only does that cause us to rejoice, but this fact causes us to find courage to live the life that God has called us to live. Remember: “The Lord reigns!”

I have felt God’s stirring over the past weeks and am excited about His working at Metairie Baptist. I am also thankful for your faithfulness in following after Him in your daily walk and in your corporate walk as a part of the church. Join me in continuing to pray consistently for God’s working in and through Metairie Baptist. Let’s keep our eyes open with anticipation for what God is going to do next!

We welcomed Patrick Weaver as the Minster of Youth on Sunday. I am thankful that God has brought him to MBC and that now God has led him join to our staff. Join me in praying for Patrick and Leah. Also, join me in praying for our youth – we have a great group of youth!

In the days ahead, consider these reminders:

*Church Council/Business Meeting is this Sunday night (Sept 27) at 5:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. One of the key items that will happen during the meeting is the election of new deacons who will serve for the next three years. The Deacon Selection Committee has met, considered, and prayed concerning these nominations. In addition, they met with those who are new to the deacon ministry at MBC. During the meeting, they heard the testimonies of these men as well as discussed with them in detail the expectations of a deacon. After those interviews, the committee made a decision to nominate the following men to serve as deacons for the upcoming year: Jim Brunson, Andrew Burns, Ken Koban, and Errol Wilken. You’ll have a chance to affirm this nomination as you vote at the Business Meeting on Sunday night.

*Originally we had planned (and announced last week) that we would be having a meeting for all members of all committees this Sunday. That meeting has been postponed until next month and, therefore, will not meet this week.

*We have had to adjust several meetings/events in our October schedule.

1. The Deacon’s Meeting will take place the first Sunday of October at 5:00 p.m. – October 4.
2. The Deacon Ordination will take place on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. The Deacon Council will meet prior to the ordination at 4:00 p.m. A reception will be held immediately following the ordination service for the new deacons.
3. A Deacon Banquet is being planned for October 18 immediately following the morning worship service. More information will be forthcoming regarding this.
4. The Church Council/Business Meeting will take place on Oct. 25 at 5:00 p.m. This will be a great time as we finalize all the plans for the Fall Festival.

*Don’t forget that the Fall Festival will be on Saturday, Oct. 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. You will be hearing more about the details of how you can help in the upcoming weeks. Make plans to attend and help us get the word out to your friends and neighbors.

Carol wanted me to remind you that with the fast approach of the Holiday Season comes an opportunity for you to participate in the Christmas worship presentation. Here is a note from Carol: It’s almost Christmas!  Yes, it’s that time of year again, when we begin rehearsals for the adult choir Christmas music.  We’ll be introducing the Christmas music for this year on Saturday, October 3.  We’ll listen to the music and rehearse from 10 am – noon in the choir room and then have lunch together in the fellowship hall.  You’ll also receive a book and listening CD at that time.  We would LOVE for you to sing with us!  If you can, please let Carol know you’ll be singing, so she can be sure to have enough books and CDs on hand and enough good food for lunch on the 3rd.  Don’t miss out! And if you can’t join us on the 3rd, beginning on October 7th we’ll also begin using the first 15-20 minutes of each Wednesday choir rehearsal (more as we get closer to Christmas….) to learn Christmas music.  That means you don’t have to stay for the whole rehearsal if you’re only singing Christmas music.  So, please come and join us!

Our network at church has been down for a couple of days. If you have attempted to email someone and have not had a response, it is perhaps for that reason. Feel free to call the office if we can be of any help – 504 835 2611. (By the way, many of us are accessing our email outside of the church network so we are checking emails as well).

I look forward to seeing you tonight and Sunday. I am rejoicing – “The Lord Reigns!” Enjoy your first day of Fall.

On the journey,
Thomas

Metairie Baptist Missive for Sept. 16, 2015

“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

Good morning!  Have you enjoyed the nice weather these last few days?  It has been refreshing – and greatly appreciated at our house because they have been repairing our AC!  We have tremendously enjoyed being able to have the windows open with the cooler breeze blowing through the house.

While enjoying the weather, I have watched the news of all that is taking place around us and my heart remains heavy.  The Syrian refugee crisis is simply heart breaking to me.  To hear of the number of people who are dying while trying to find a future home which is safe causes great sadness.  Then we also hear of their difficulties of getting to a new place where they can be taken in as refugees.  The pictures of families and especially children are embedded in my mind.  In addition, I have been thinking of the families who lost loved ones during the flash flood yesterday in Utah.  On top of that, there is crime and the loss of life in our city and around the world, not to mention the continual safety threat to our police officers.  Honestly, in times like this it is tempting to simply throw up one’s hands and surrender.  Thankfully, we serve a God who is bigger than all these – and so I encourage you to continue to pray.  Pray for God’s intervention, for the protection of individuals, for right thinking of all those involved, and for the salvation of the lost.  Ultimately, God is the only one who can provide a way through these challenging times – and we know that He is able!  Don’t lose heart, but be more determined to turn to Him!

I trust you are making plans to join us tonight for our small group studies.  We will begin at 6:10 p.m.  Though the studies have started a couple of weeks ago, they are all designed for you to come as you are able.  If you haven’t been able to attend as of yet, it still is not too late.  For those of you who have been in attendance, don’t forget to make attendance a priority – each week contains important teachings that God can use to shape your life.

On Friday night (Sept. 18) beginning at 7:00 p.m., we will be hosting a Family Movie Night for all the church family as well as your friends and neighbors.  Make plans to invite those around you and join in a time of fun and fellowship.  Feel free to bring a comfortable folding chair or a blanket to sit on so you can enjoy the movie!

Saturday (Sept. 19) will be our Helping Hands Day beginning at 8:30 am.  This ministry provides help to those in our church who need minor things done around the house such as weeding a flower bed or changing light bulbs.  In addition, minor work is done around the church if time allows.  A lunch is provided at the conclusion of the time for those who give of their time and effort in Helping Hands.

Remember that our Business Meeting/Church Council has been pushed back one week.  Instead of this Sunday, the meeting will take place on Sept. 27.  This will allow the Deacon Selection Committee to complete their work so we can vote on the election of new deacons.  The list of those being nominated for new deacons next year will be found in the bulletin this Sunday.

Would you continue to pray about God’s using you in the ministries of Metairie Baptist?  Currently we have needs in several areas:  Helping with the Children’s Ministry particularly on Wednesday night, helping with Extended Teaching Care on Sunday morning during the worship service, helping with the homeless ministry particularly in the preparation of the meals on Saturday.  If you would like more information about these, please respond to this email or call the church office.  Many of these opportunities involve only helping occasionally, such as once a month.  Please join us in praying about support for these very important ministries of MBC.

Do you have any knowledge of networks or websites?  We are looking to bolster our support of the media ministry at MBC.  You can contact Carol Wilken at carol.wilken@metairiebc.org or 504-835-2611.

I have been praying for you – and look forward to seeing you soon.  As always, don’t hesitate to let us know if we can be of any help or if we can pray specifically with you about any matters.  I am grateful to be on the journey with you.

Pressing forward,

Thomas
—Thomas Strong III, Ph.D.
Senior Pastor
Metairie Baptist Church
401 Codifer Blvd.
Metairie, LA  70005

504-835-2611

thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive for Sept. 9, 2015

¹ Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
² I will praise the Lord while I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.
³ Do not trust in princes, In mortal man, in whom there is no salvation. ⁴ His spirit departs, he returns to the earth; In that very day his thoughts perish.
⁵ How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, Whose hope is in the Lord his God, ⁶ Who made heaven and earth, The sea and all that is in them; Who keeps faith forever; ⁷ Who executes justice for the oppressed; Who gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets the prisoners free. ⁸ The Lord opens the eyes of the blind; The Lord raises up those who are bowed down; The Lord loves the righteous; ⁹ The Lord protects the strangers; He supports the fatherless and the widow, But He thwarts the way of the wicked.
¹⁰ The Lord will reign forever, Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the Lord! (Psalm 146)

I have consistently found encouragement throughout the past weeks in the great truth that our God reigns! No matter what happens, God is still sovereign. As the Psalmist stated, “The Lord will reign forever!” I trust you’ll find great comfort, encouragement, and consistent hope in our God who reigns eternally!

Last week we got off to a great start with our small group studies on Wednesday night. The entire purpose of these groups is to challenge us in our daily lives to become more like Christ. Join us tonight at 6:10 as the studies continue. If you weren’t able to join us last week, it isn’t too late – you are more than welcome to join us.

*A group for men and women will be led by me in Room 200. We are studying “MasterLife: The Disciple’s Victory.”

*A group for men will be led by Mitch Mares in the Room 123. This group will be studying “MasterLife: The Disciple’s Personality.”

*A group for women will be led by Terry Dickson and Betty Frechette in the Parlor. The women will be studying “MasterLife: The Disciple’s Cross.”

I honestly believe that if you invest your time in these studies that God will use them to change your life. Over the past months, I have seen that very thing happen – so join us on the journey.

Consider these matters as you prepare for the weeks ahead:

*We are needing individuals who can help with our children’s ministry, particularly on Wednesday night. Would you be willing to help regularly or occasionally? You can contact Leah at Leah.Weaver@metairiebc.org or call the church office.

*Immediately following the morning worship service (Sept. 13), I would like to meet with the parents of the youth in the Parlor to talk about the steps we are taking with the youth ministry and to receive input as well. The meeting will be brief in order to allow you to enjoy lunch with your family.

*A Family Movie Night has been planned for Sept. 18 in the Fellowship Hall. More details are coming but mark your calendars so you can join the church family in a night of fellowship.

*Helping Hands has planned a work day for Saturday morning, Sept. 19. This is an opportunity to be involved in helping some of our church family with matters around their house that need attention. If you are able to help or would like more information, you can contact the church office. Janie will make certain your information/questions get to Linda Bordelon. In addition, if you are one of our senior adults and would like to request some assistance, please contact the church office. You can reach Janie at 835-2611 or office@metairiebc.org.

*The Business Meeting/Church Council for September has been pushed back a week. We will meet on Sunday night, Sept. 27, at 5:00.

Thank you for praying diligently and for giving sacrificially to the church throughout the past months. As mentioned previously, we were in a tight place financially. God’s provisions and your response have provided a very positive month for Metairie Baptist. Continue to pray and continue to give! From my heart I want you to know that I am thankful for your faithfulness in all you do. We are looking forward to the opportunities of ministry that are in the days ahead.

On the journey,
Thomas
—

Thomas Strong III, Ph.D.
Senior Pastor
Metairie Baptist Church
401 Codifer Blvd.
Metairie, LA  70005
504-835-2611
thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive for September 2, 2015

Good morning!  I trust you are having a great week and encountering each new day as an opportunity to know God better and to be used by Him.  After a challenging week last week, I am reminded of His faithfulness in walking with us.  Thank you so much for your prayers and for your many expressions of support and encouragement.

We had an absolutely wonderful time on Sunday afternoon at the picnic.  I enjoyed just listening – there was an incredible buzz as everyone was enjoying the fellowship with one another.  A great crowd attended and there was without question plenty of food.  It was fun to watch the children enjoy their time on the waterslide, the adults engaged in conversation, and all experiencing the fellowship. Thanks to those who helped plan, brought food, helped with the set up, and helped with the cleanup.  A special thanks to Jan Kokemore for her tremendous effort in planning and organizing the event.

Tonight is the night!  We begin our small group meetings tonight as we start MasterLife.  The purpose of all these studies is to help us grow in our relationship with Christ.  Avery Willis originally developed the MasterLife process to encourage those on the mission field who had accepted Christ to grow in their relationship with Him.  But it quickly became a process that was used around the world.   Personally, I first participated in MasterLife when I spent a year in Detroit as a missionary through the Home Mission Board (now North American Mission Board) where I ministered to college students at Wayne State University.  God used the study to change my life radically.  [By the way, I discovered on Sunday that Clarice Starr’s brother was instrumental in the development of MasterLife as he worked with Avery Willis. He was also instrumental in the spread of the process to other countries after the development!  We have an MBC connection!]

Make plans to join us tonight – there will definitely be a group that you can join.  All the groups will begin at 6:10 p.m.  Signs will be throughout the church to help you find the location of your study.  If you are uncertain which one to attend, we will be glad to help you – just find myself or one of the staff.  Also, if you haven’t signed up yet, you are still welcome (more than welcome!) to come.

*A men’s group will be led by Mitch Mares.   They will be studying “MasterLife: The Disciple’s Personality.”

*A women’s group will be co-led by Betty Frechette and Terry Dickson.  Their study is entitled, “MasterLife: The Disciple’s Cross.”

*A group for both men and women will be led by me.  We will be studying “MasterLife: The Disicple’s Victory.”

Make plans to join us each week as we seek to become more like Christ in our daily walks.  Throughout Scriptures, we are reminded of the importance of gathering together for encouragement in our walks with Christ.  God never intended for us to try and live for Him in isolation.  Fellowship and mutual encouragement is important.  These studies will provide both that time of fellowship and encouragement for your walk!

We need your help!  As we gather together for our groups tonight, our youth, children, and preschoolers will be meeting as well.  We need some who will volunteer to help with the children, whether every week or on a rotation basis.  Would you consider helping?  You can find out more by contacting the church office at 504-835-2611 or office@metairiebc.org.  Also, you can contact Leah Weaver who provides direction for the children’s ministry at leah.weaver@metairiebc.org.  Pray with us that God would raise up those who will give of themselves for the sake of our children!

Make plans to join us Sunday.  We have a great day of worship and baptism planned.  My intention is to continue to examine some of the final verses of Hebrews.  I trust that God has used these sermons to both convince and convict us!

Praying for you especially today.  I am grateful to you and grateful for your continued walking with Christ.  Be faithful!

On the journey,
Thomas

Metairie Baptist Missive for August 19, 2015

“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

Thank you for your prayers over the past few days – they have been busy!  We are in Faculty Workshop at Leavell College/New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as we are preparing for the new academic year.  Tomorrow we welcome the new students to campus – and then classes begin on Monday!  I am looking forward to this year as I do each year.  I greatly appreciate your prayer support as I fulfill that portion of God’s calling on my life.  This semester I will be teaching two exegetical classes —  New Testament Interpretation: Romans and New Testament Interpretation: Acts.

I am also overwhelmingly thankful for the opportunity to be your pastor.  The past 10 plus years have been challenging in many ways but fulfilling in most every way.  Thank you for your prayers – you have no idea how much the prayer support means to me as your pastor and to our entire staff.  I am grateful to minister alongside each one of them and look forward to embracing the days ahead as we seek after God’s ministry in and through Metairie Baptist.

By now, you may have heard that Daniel Guagliardo has resigned from our staff as the Minister of Youth and is taking on a new ministry opportunity in another city.  He and Sarah will be moving on August 31 so you will want to use the days ahead to express your appreciation to him for his ministry.  We are grateful for Daniel’s ministry at MBC over the past years.

Join me in praying for our youth as well as they walk through these days of transition. These days are always challenging but we have in place individuals who can keep the ministry moving forward.  In addition, pray for us as we seek after the next Minister of Youth.  God is leading and for that we are thankful!

We have been anticipating the Church Family Picnic for a long time – and now it is almost here.  Don’t forget to sign up to be a part of the picnic on Sunday, August 30, at 4:00 p.m.  The final plans are being made – and your help is needed.  Sign-up sheets are in the Orion Foyer – you can sign up to attend and indicate what you are bringing.  Also, you can sign up to help with the set-up, the serving, or the tear down phase of the picnic.  Please utilize this opportunity as a chance to invite friends and family members to experience the joy that is felt at Metairie Baptist.  We

are going to have a cake baking contest and a water slide for the children to add a little more excitement to the event!

In two weeks we will begin our new Wednesday night studies.  Please make plans to join us for one of our MasterLife courses.  Each of these studies is designed to challenge you in your walk with Christ.   A men’s group, a women’s group, and a mixed co-ed group will be offered.  These will start the first week in September and last until Thanksgiving – so make plans to join in this time of study and growth.

Join us tonight as we continue our study.  I will be talking through the final days of Paul’s third missionary journey, as well as his trip to Jerusalem which led to his arrest.  We meet in the Sanctuary at 6:10 tonight.

Don’t forget to bring cookies for the new students at seminary.  Each year we hand out cookies to welcome the new students.  If you are able to bake some, please place them in baggies containing two or three cookies – and bring them by the church tomorrow (Thursday) before noon.

Be certain of my prayers for you.  I look forward to seeing you tonight.

On the journey,
Thomas

Thomas Strong III, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor

Metairie Baptist Church

401 Codifer Blvd.

Metairie, LA  70005

504-835-2611

thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive for August 12, 2015

Metairie Baptist Missive

August 12, 2015
“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

Where did the morning go? I guess it went to the same place as the summer went! Time continues to march forward – that happens without our input. The one opportunity for input that we have is how we use the time. I challenge you to be wise in your use of time today and to use your time for His honor!

I was grateful for the opportunity to celebrate Ray Pace’s life this week. He was a great man whom God used in so many ways to encourage me and everyone who came in contact with Him. I trust that we will all be challenged by the way he lived his life – and that we would consistently remember that we are “blessed” even as Ray did throughout his entire life. Join me in continuing to pray for Jeannie and the family.

As pastor, I have the opportunity to see many people who minister behind the scenes. I wanted to express my gratitude for a group of ladies who consistently work behind the scenes without notice to provide an incredible ministry. Each time we experience a death within the church family, a group of ladies mobilize immediately to develop a plan to provide for the family during these times. This week, this group of ladies provided a breakfast for all who attended the visitation and memorial service. In addition, they went the extra mile to provide box lunches for some who were driving across the Causeway to the burial. I was one of those who was the recipient of their kindness – and it meant a great deal to me. Thank you to these ladies who give of their time and demonstrate their kindness/compassion to many. [By the way, I would call their names but out of fear of leaving someone out, I will refrain. Of course, Lillian Bowser is the one who takes the lead in this ministry!]

Don’t forget about our study tonight! We will continue to look at the Life of Paul. Last week we had the opportunity to think through Paul’s visit to Athens and Corinth on his second missionary journey. Tonight we will look at the beginning of his third missionary journey and will highlight his impact on the city of Ephesus and Corinth. Join us at 6:10 p.m. in the Sanctuary for this time together.

Sunday is going to be a great day at Metairie Baptist. Sunday School/Bible Study begins at 9:15 a.m. As I mentioned on Sunday, this is a great opportunity to connect with others and to understand better the Scriptures so that they can be applied to life! If you haven’t been attending, we will be glad to help you find a place in Bible Study on Sunday morning. After Sunday School, we will have a time to worship together. This week I am preaching from Hebrews 12. The choir will be singing, and we are going to continue our time of prayer emphasis during the service.

On Sunday night, we will meet at 5:00 for our Business Meeting/Church Council. You are all invited to attend this time – it is meant to be a time for the entire church family to come together. We will be discussing matters such as the finances of the church and hearing reports from committees as we anticipate the upcoming year. In addition, you will have the opportunity to provide input or to ask questions. This truly is a family meeting so come join in the discussion!

Our Family Picnic is taking place on August 30 at 4:00 p.m. If you haven’t made plans to attend, plan now to come and join us. You can sign up on the bulletin tab on Sunday morning, by means of the sheet in the Orion Foyer, or by calling the church office. When you sign up, indicate what side item you will be bringing so we can be prepared. A water slide is going to be provided for the children. In addition, we will be having a cake baking competition among the men – and we will all be able to enjoy the entries into the competition! Invite your friends and family to join you as we just enjoy being together.

Many of our students and teachers have returned to school this week. Other will begin classes soon. As a church, we have made a commitment to pray for them. Some of you committed to pray individually for them by picking an “apple” with their name on it during our breakfast. Continue to pray and ask for God’s blessings on their lives as they walk through this school year. Pray for encouragement in their lives and for them to be mindful of God’s working in their lives. Pray as well for their impact and witness upon the schools they attend.

I look forward to seeing you tonight and Sunday!

On the journey,
Thomas

thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive for July 29, 2015

Metairie Baptist Missive

July 29, 2015
“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

Good morning! I missed being with you on Sunday and throughout last week. We are now home in New Orleans and reflecting on a great trip. I always enjoy spending time with Mom and hearing all that is happening in her life. I am thankful, especially, to hear of her continued love for missions and involvement in a number of mission opportunities. Jana and I enjoyed catching up with my sister and her family as well. In addition, it was nice to experience a little break from some of the routines of life – but I am ready to embrace those routines now!

This Sunday is going to be an exciting time together at Metairie Baptist. 

*First, we will have a breakfast to kick off the Sunday morning beginning at 8:30 a.m. and lasting until Sunday School starts at 9:15 a.m. This is a great time of fellowship and will also be a time when we commit to pray for our students and teachers as they head back to school.

*Our children will be promoting with many going to their new classes on Sunday morning during Sunday School. Pray for the children and the teachers who invest in their lives through the ministry of Sunday School.

*We encourage all to begin our new Sunday School year in Bible study – if you haven’t been before or haven’t been in a while, join us for Sunday School/Bible Study which begins at 9:15 a.m. If you don’t know which class to attend, we will be available to help you find the right place.

*During our morning worship service, we are having guest worship leaders. Jason and Lauren Waggoner will be leading us on Sunday. They are a dynamic young couple with a heart for God and a gift from Him for leading in worship. Join us at 10:30 a.m. for our time of worship. In addition, Melissa Jackson will be singing before I preach on Hebrews 10. It is going to be a great time together at Metairie Baptist.

Join Us In Praying for Our Students

Your help is needed! We are seeking the names of students and teachers so that we can pray for them throughout the year. If you have a student or teacher in your home or know of one for whom we can pray, please contact the church office at 504-835-2611. You can also email by sending a note to office@metairiebc.org. During the breakfast on Sunday morning, you will have an opportunity to make a commitment to pray for a student throughout the upcoming year. What a great opportunity we have to invest in the lives of our students and teachers by praying for them throughout the year.

Church Picnic!

Don’t forget that the church picnic is planned for August 2 at 4:00 p.m. We are going to enjoy a time of fellowship that afternoon at the church. You will have an opportunity to sign up in the weeks ahead, but we encourage you to make plans now to attend. Sign-up sheets are available to indicate your attendance and to indicate which side dish you are planning on bringing. The men are going to have a “bake off” – so men, begin to find those recipes and make those plans now! We will all enjoy the bake off entries after the judging has been completed. In addition, we are having a waterslide for the children to be able to have some extra fun and stay cool! Invite your family and friends as well – just sign them up as they agree to come so we will know how much chicken to purchase!

“The Life of Paul” Continues Tonight

I look forward to seeing you tonight as we continue our study of Paul’s life. Tonight we will look at the beginning of his second journey, particularly his encounters in Philippi and Thessalonica. We will begin tonight at 6:10 p.m. in the sanctuary.

Prayer Request

I have asked the church to join me in praying for our continued steps into the future. We have reached a time in our ministry when our budget is very tight. We are definitely not at the point of an emergency but we are watching expenses to make certain that we don’t place ourselves in a position to hinder the ministry. Would you pray with me that God would give guidance and that individuals would continue to give sacrificially to the ministry out of grateful hearts for all that God has done?

I find it hard to believe that the summer is almost over. The fact that the children are heading back to school is a reminder that the days continue to move forward. Let’s be found faithful in using every day for His honor! I look forward to seeing you tonight.

On the journey,
Thomas

thomas.strong@metairiebc.org

Metairie Baptist Missive for July 8, 2015

Metairie Baptist Missive

July 8, 2015

“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

I trust you had a great July 4^th weekend.  The weekend was a great time to remember the blessings that God has given us here in the United States. I was reminded that some of the things we complain about greatly are the results of freedoms that we enjoy – and others around the world could never imagine experiencing the blessings we experience daily.  Let’s join together as a church family to be certain that we give thanks to God for His blessings and that we utilize those blessings as opportunities to be used by Him in this world in which He has placed us.

Centrifuge

I want to encourage you to continue to pray for our youth at Centrifuge. I have heard daily updates from Daniel and all things are going well.  They are actively engaged in regular Bible study, worship, fellowship, and fun.  Sometimes we forget these various components complement each other; camp reminds us that they do!   Today is their last full day at Centrifuge.  Pray that God would continue to speak.  Pray that each encounter with the youth would be leading to a life change moment as the Spirit works in their lives.  Pray for the adults present; remember that they have made sacrifices to be present.  I am praying that God would speak to the adults/chaperones to encourage them in their walks.  We look forward to their return on Thursday.  We also look forward to hearing of God’s work in their lives.

Family Movie Night

Family Movie Night is a little over a week away (July 17)!  Make plans to join us as we come together just to experience a good time of fellowship.  The movie will be “Despicable Me.”  If you have seen it already, come and enjoy it with us. If you are like me and haven’t seen it (but have heard about it often), now is the chance to see it.  While watching the movie, we will have time together as a church family.  I was asked what ages are invited to this event.  The Answer:  Everyone who is alive is invited!  Come and join us.  This is also a great event to which you can invite your family and friends.  Family Movie Night is Friday, July 17 in the Fellowship Hall.

“The Life of Paul”

Join us tonight for our Bible Study on the “Life of Paul.”  Last week we studied how the Holy Spirit set apart Barnabas and Paul for a missionary journey.  Come and relive the journey with us as we examine Acts 13 and 14.  You will quickly realize that being a missionary is a great life, but it is also a very challenging life.  In addition, you will discover that with God’s help, Paul persevered in faithfulness.  You will be challenged by this study.  We begin at 6:10 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

“Deacon Nominations”

Please remember that we are currently receiving nominations for those who will serve as deacons for the next three years.  Ballots were available in the bulletin on Sunday, will be available in the bulletin this Sunday, and are available in the church office.  After prayerfully completing the ballot, you can return them to the box outside of the church office.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday.  We will continue to work our way through the letter to the Hebrews. This week we will be looking particularly at Hebrews 8.  Take some time to read through it before Sunday as you begin to prepare yourself for Sunday.  I have been praying that you would be challenged by our consideration of Hebrews over the past months – challenged to remember that Jesus truly is the great High Priest who had made the necessary sacrifice for us and intercedes continually on our behalf.  Join me in praying for God’s Spirit to move among us during the service on Sunday as we strive towards holiness and obedience.

On the journey,
Thomas

Metairie Baptist Missive for July 1, 2015

“So the world will know, the saved will grow, and the church will go.”

Can you believe that it is July already? With the dawn of July, we suddenly discover that half of 2015 is now over. We can’t go back and recover any of the past days but we can determine that we will capture each day ahead. Now is a good time for that mid-year check-up. How are you doing in your walk with Christ? Are you growing to be more like Him in your life/walk, thoughts, and actions? Are you consistently spending time with Him? Are you seeking to tell others about him through your conversations and passing out TrueLife cards? Are you being used by Him in the ministry of MBC? Are you intentionally helping someone grow in their walk with Christ by investing in someone’s life? Pray, give consideration of your life, and make those decisions today to utilize the days ahead for His glory! Paul reminds us, “As you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, so walk in Him . . . .” (Col. 3:6)

Sunday was a great day at Metairie Baptist. We are thankful for an effective and a meaningful time during Bible study/Sunday School. At MBC, we have some of the finest teachers who diligently study and consistently practice the Word of God. We are also thankful for a great time of worship and Bible study during the morning worship service. The presence and working of the Spirit was obvious. Thanks for your attentiveness and patience as we studied through the first verses of Hebrews 7 and explored the comparison of Jesus and Melchizedek. We are also thankful for John and Kathy Occhipinti who felt God calling them to move their membership to MBC and plant their lives here! In addition, we are thankful for a great Business Meeting/Church Council. I love how we can come together to talk through not only the business of the church but, even more so, the ministry of the church. The council time reminds me of the truth that the church really is made up of individuals, each of which is uniquely gifted with insights and gifts. We made some plans for the future and talked through many issues including:

*For the sake of ministry continuity, August 2 will be promotion Sunday this year. We are going to begin with a breakfast at 8:30-9:15 during which time we will begin praying for our students as they prepare to begin school.

*We rescheduled the Family Picnic for August 30 – to be held at the church. Included in this time will be an opportunity for our entire church to enjoy great fellowship and the children to enjoy water slide fun! The men of the church are going to participate in a cake baking contest!

*A Family Movie night is going to be held in the Fellowship Hall on July 17. More details will be coming but the purpose of this night is for ALL the family of MBC to join together for a great time of fellowship. This will be a wonderful time to invite family guests, especially those who came during VBS. The move is still to be determined but will be targeted toward our younger ones so all present can enjoy the night (even though targeted for the younger ones, it will also be a movie that all will enjoy).

*A mission project to encourage the teachers at a local school was discussed with plans to implement possibly in November – more details will be coming!

*In September, we will begin MasterLife small group studies for all adults on Wednesday night.

*Education and outreach ministry teams are being developed to strengthen these ministries at MBC.

*We are in need of support help for our preschool and children’s ministry. If you can help in Sunday School (either weekly or sporadically) or in Extended Teaching Care during the morning service, please contact the church office to leave a contact number and someone will return your call with more information.

*We are praying for someone to oversee the Samaritan Ministry. If you are interested in knowing more, please contact either Mitch or myself.

*Our children will be leaving for camp on July 20. Please join me in praying for them as they begin their preparations. Also, if you would like to sponsor a child for camp or help sponsor a child, please let Leah Weaver or myself know.

We discussed a great deal at the council meeting — if you missed it, make plans to join us next week to be a part of the discussion.  I left the meeting encouraged and challenged. I am encouraged by all that God is doing, especially as we considered the wonderful week of VBS. I am challenged as I look into the future and want to make certain we grasp every opportunity that God presents to us.

Youth Centrifuge Trip

Our youth will be leaving on Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. to leave for Jackson, MS where they will be attending Centrifuge. Please join me in praying for our youth and the leaders. This is always an exciting time of great encouragement and fun. Pray that God would provide safety for travels and while they are there. In addition, pray that each person present would be aware of God’s working and that there would be a willingness to respond to His working. Continue to pray for Daniel as he leads the youth ministry at MBC!

Wednesday Night Bible Study Continues Tonight!

Join us tonight as we continue our study on the “Life of Paul.” Tonight we will begin looking at Acts 13 as the Holy Spirit calls out Barnabas and Paul to begin the first journey of spreading the word and establishing new churches. You’ll be encouraged in your walk so bring your Bibles and join us tonight in the sanctuary at 6:10 p.m.

Many will be traveling this weekend for the celebration of July 4^th. Whether you travel or stay at home, let’s covenant to pray for each other that we would demonstrate a consistency in our walk with Christ throughout the weekend. For those of you in town, I look forward to seeing you at Metairie Baptist on Sunday.

On the journey,
Thomas
–Thomas Strong III, Ph.D.
Senior Pastor
Metairie Baptist Church
401 Codifer Blvd.
Metairie, LA  70005
504-835-2611

thomas.strong@metairiebc.org