The Apostle John writes to us: “The Life appeared (Jesus); and we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life…we proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you may have fellowship with us.”
1 John 1:2,3
Let me share with you what we have seen and heard that you may rejoice and have fellowship/have in common the life Jesus is bringing. I want to share at least a few highlights of where we are seeing Him working. I thank you for your continued prayers and your generous giving. You not only are giving in obedience to His word and getting a great return on your investments. You are also part of changing lives, sharing light in dark places, giving hope to those with limited options. You are a part of making disciples that make disciples that change the world.
Since January of this year we have seen 21 precious souls baptized into the family of God known as JIBC. That represents 15 adults, 1 teenager and 5 children. By the way, at this year’s VBS, we had over a dozen children make first steps toward their professions of faith in Jesus. No doubt God’s grace will see them follow through with these decisions in the near future. Susan Warren is using this year’s generous VBS offering to assist the Florence Crittenton Home for young unwed mothers. We will be building ongoing relationships with this vital community service. Your generous giving above your tithes makes possible the blessings to dozens of young mothers.
One significant ministry that continues to be blessed is Celebrate Recovery. The Sunday of our church anniversary, July 14, had over 60 adults in attendance. They are involved in a Christ-centered 12 Step ministry led by JIBC volunteers. Your support makes it possible to give them the recovery/discipleship materials needed. Kickin Chicken, The Charleston Crab House, Stono Café and our CR Kitchen Krew provide for meals each Sunday night. We have helped train leaders from other churches that will also start Celebrate Recovery Ministries. Our prayer is that one day there will be Christ Centered Recovery programs offered every night of the week.
Your Transition House is full at four residents. Two of them have been there for one year! Wow! Who would have thought that possible? You give so generously to these women individually as well as allowing the church to underwrite this ministry. You are changing lives, helping to set the captives free. To God be the glory.
You pray, you serve, you lead and you give. You make it possible to be a church that is focused externally and not just on ourselves. Of course we have to maintain campus buildings, pay bills and maintain church ministries. Your giving and your attitude allows us to make a difference, to proclaim life, to invite others to share in the sweet fellowship that we enjoy.
Blessings in the Name of Life who appeared…Jesus!
Pastor Tom
