PASTOR'S UPDATE MARCH 24, 2023
Happy Friday, Friendship Family!
Greetings in the great name of Jesus!
Do you know you can find strength in His name?
There will be moments when your faith falters, when you’re lonely or exhausted or just plain sad. There will be moments when grief grabs ahold of you and crumbles you to the ground, where all you’ve believed feels empty, and when each breath feels like a chore. But in these moments, you will find redemption and power in His name. The name of Jesus is the most powerful name there is.
God gave Jesus the “name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). Why is this name so powerful? Because of the sacrifice, He made—living a perfect life, dying a sinner’s death, and His resurrection. Jesus made way for all of humanity to be saved and made right with God: “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13; cf. Acts 4:12).
When we talk about the name of Jesus, we are talking about Jesus Himself, His character, and the things He does. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, God gave Him the most powerful name of all time. Philippians 2:8–11 says:
Greetings in the great name of Jesus!
Do you know you can find strength in His name?
There will be moments when your faith falters, when you’re lonely or exhausted or just plain sad. There will be moments when grief grabs ahold of you and crumbles you to the ground, where all you’ve believed feels empty, and when each breath feels like a chore. But in these moments, you will find redemption and power in His name. The name of Jesus is the most powerful name there is.
God gave Jesus the “name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). Why is this name so powerful? Because of the sacrifice, He made—living a perfect life, dying a sinner’s death, and His resurrection. Jesus made way for all of humanity to be saved and made right with God: “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13; cf. Acts 4:12).
When we talk about the name of Jesus, we are talking about Jesus Himself, His character, and the things He does. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, God gave Him the most powerful name of all time. Philippians 2:8–11 says:
“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
The name of Jesus compels us to worship Him and bring glory to God. Each person will one day come face to face with Jesus and have to confess that He is Lord. In the moments where you feel overwhelmed, stressed, and stretched, if you choose to follow Him, He will guide you away from the heartbreak, the loneliness, the death, the loss, the most challenging moments of your life, and back into His arms.
AMEN!
AMEN!
Now on to the announcements…
HOLY WEEK
FUTURE NOW INITIATIVE
We also want to thank those who have already started to give for our FUTURE NOW INITIATIVE. This month (March), we request that you submit your PLEDGE FORM and begin making your pledges.
On the pledge form, please indicate your planned pledge amount and your frequency of giving. Again, if you have the printed form, please put your total pledge amount on the KICK STARTER LINE. Then tell us, on that form, whether you will give your pledge over 12 months or 15 months. Lastly, please tell us the frequency of your giving, whether you will give weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly (as a one-time gift). Also, the form is available online HERE.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED
Also, I need an Executive Assistant. I will admit we do not offer the highest salary. Still, we offer a great work environment, medical benefits, a retirement package, and the satisfaction of working in a Christian environment and making a difference for the Kingdom of God. Qualified individuals should be highly organized, have problem-solving capabilities, and be willing to get things done! If that’s you or someone you know, please apply on our website HERE!
TEACHER'S MEETING
To all Bible Teachers and LEAD Graduates, our 1st Quarter Teacher’s Meeting will be held tomorrow, March 25th, at 10 a.m. at the church in the multi-purpose building. We invite you to join us as we share and receive your feedback on what’s happening in Christian Education Ministry. Refreshments will be provided so if you are unable to attend, please inform Sis. Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima, so they may plan, accordingly. We look forward to seeing you and to our time together.
To all Bible Teachers and LEAD Graduates, our 1st Quarter Teacher’s Meeting will be held tomorrow, March 25th, at 10 a.m. at the church in the multi-purpose building. We invite you to join us as we share and receive your feedback on what’s happening in Christian Education Ministry. Refreshments will be provided so if you are unable to attend, please inform Sis. Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima, so they may plan, accordingly. We look forward to seeing you and to our time together.
SINGLES MINISTRY CHAT-N-CHEW
Have you faced difficult situations, experienced loss, or had to make life-changing decisions? The reality is we have all had experiences that caused a shift, whether physical or emotional. But despite these sometimes unexpected circumstances, there is hope to rebuild with clarity and faith while navigating life in the New Normal.
Join us for a virtual fellowship on tomorrow afternoon, March 25, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Our guest speaker, Sis. Tanya Whiteside of The Whiteside Group, and a beloved member of Friendship Baptist Church, will lead the discussion and share with us on how we can Find Joy In The Unexpected! Register HERE. Don’t Delay…Register Today! We look forward to seeing you there!
Have you faced difficult situations, experienced loss, or had to make life-changing decisions? The reality is we have all had experiences that caused a shift, whether physical or emotional. But despite these sometimes unexpected circumstances, there is hope to rebuild with clarity and faith while navigating life in the New Normal.
Join us for a virtual fellowship on tomorrow afternoon, March 25, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Our guest speaker, Sis. Tanya Whiteside of The Whiteside Group, and a beloved member of Friendship Baptist Church, will lead the discussion and share with us on how we can Find Joy In The Unexpected! Register HERE. Don’t Delay…Register Today! We look forward to seeing you there!
CHILDREN’S EASTER PROGRAM
Easter is coming and we are bringing back the children's Easter Program on Easter Sunday between 8 am and 11:30 am Service! Over the next few weeks, children will be given an Easter speech in their Ex-Hour or Small Group class during Children's Worship. Teachers are helping students prepare during Sunday class time, so please be sure your child is in attendance.
BIBLE STUDY CLASS
If you’re seeking an adult Bible Study class to attend during the week, you’re invited to join a new study on the Book of Acts. This in-person class meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Carrington Building and is taught by Deacon Toreno Winn. This study recently started (two sessions held), and new members are welcomed! Register to attend: The Book of Acts Bible Study
LEAD ACADEMY
We are excited to announce the start of our 2023 Leadership Excellence and Development Academy (also known as LEAD), beginning on Thursday, April 20th at 7 p.m.
LEAD Academy is for all existing and aspiring leaders. Of note: We especially desire and welcome young adults, as well as those aspiring to lead to participate. Holding a current leadership role or title within the church is not required for you to participate in this educational offering. Our desire and goal is to develop existing and future church leaders.
This course will offer meaningful discussion, readings, training videos, mentorship, etc., and will be approximately 50% in-person and 50% online. Aspiring and existing leaders are encouraged to prayerfully consider joining us starting Thursday, April 20th. Registration will be available starting next week. Should you have questions regarding the program, please contact our Christian Education Leadership team, Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima Curry.
This course will offer meaningful discussion, readings, training videos, mentorship, etc., and will be approximately 50% in-person and 50% online. Aspiring and existing leaders are encouraged to prayerfully consider joining us starting Thursday, April 20th. Registration will be available starting next week. Should you have questions regarding the program, please contact our Christian Education Leadership team, Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima Curry.
- Wednesday, April 5th ~ Holy Week Revival at Christ Our Redeemer ~ Irvine, CA ~ 7pm (Pastor Curry Preaching & Friendship Choir Singing) ~ Time TBA.
- Thursday, April 6th ~ Maundy Thursday Service @ Friendship @ 7:30pm
- Friday, April 7th ~ Good Friday Service ~ Christ Second Baptist ~ Long Beach, CA~ 7pm (Pastor Curry Lecturing & Friendship Choir Singing ~ Preacher: Dr. Marcus Cosby (Houston, TX) ~ Time TBA.
- Sunday, April 9th ~ Resurrection Sunday ~ Three Services ~ 5:30am, 8am, & 11:30am
- Friday, April 14th ~ Post Resurrection Sunday Concert ~ Peace Tour (Cinque Cullar) ~ @ Friendship @ 7:30pm
FUTURE NOW INITIATIVE
We also want to thank those who have already started to give for our FUTURE NOW INITIATIVE. This month (March), we request that you submit your PLEDGE FORM and begin making your pledges.
On the pledge form, please indicate your planned pledge amount and your frequency of giving. Again, if you have the printed form, please put your total pledge amount on the KICK STARTER LINE. Then tell us, on that form, whether you will give your pledge over 12 months or 15 months. Lastly, please tell us the frequency of your giving, whether you will give weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly (as a one-time gift). Also, the form is available online HERE.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED
Also, I need an Executive Assistant. I will admit we do not offer the highest salary. Still, we offer a great work environment, medical benefits, a retirement package, and the satisfaction of working in a Christian environment and making a difference for the Kingdom of God. Qualified individuals should be highly organized, have problem-solving capabilities, and be willing to get things done! If that’s you or someone you know, please apply on our website HERE!
BIBLE READING GROUPS
Is it your goal to read God’s Word this year? If so, we invite and welcome you to join a Bible Reading Small Group. Starting next month, we will once again offer several Bible Reading Small Groups. These groups are designed to promote reading a Bible plan in community with others and accountability. As you may recall, we offered Bible Reading Small Groups last year-over 100 members of Friendship informed us they completed at least one of the reading plans. To God be the glory!
Information on how you can join a Bible Reading Group is coming soon. Would you consider serving as a Bible Reading Small Group facilitator? Volunteers are needed and appreciated; no experience or completion of Teacher’s Training is needed; we’ll gladly provide the tools you’ll need to serve as a facilitator. If you’re willing, please contact Sis. Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima Curry.
Is it your goal to read God’s Word this year? If so, we invite and welcome you to join a Bible Reading Small Group. Starting next month, we will once again offer several Bible Reading Small Groups. These groups are designed to promote reading a Bible plan in community with others and accountability. As you may recall, we offered Bible Reading Small Groups last year-over 100 members of Friendship informed us they completed at least one of the reading plans. To God be the glory!
Information on how you can join a Bible Reading Group is coming soon. Would you consider serving as a Bible Reading Small Group facilitator? Volunteers are needed and appreciated; no experience or completion of Teacher’s Training is needed; we’ll gladly provide the tools you’ll need to serve as a facilitator. If you’re willing, please contact Sis. Le Shon Archer or Lady Karima Curry.
HEALTH SEMINAR
Second Baptist Church, in partnership with the Association of Black Cardiologist, Friendship Baptist Church, Johnson Chapel A.M.E. and Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. churches is hosting a series of ten community-based heart health educational sessions.
These sessions began on Tuesday, January 24th. They are held weekly on Tuesdays, and three more sessions are left. Sessions go from 7pm until 8pm weekly. The sessions cover “Knowing Your Risk for Heart Disease.” Participants will learn about risk factors for heart disease. Specifically, the sessions will cover the following:
MEN NEEDED @ FOOD PANTRY
Attention, Men of Friendship. We need you! We need men to help us pick up donated food from area stores and other sources to serve those with food insecurity. There has been an increase in pick-ups from stores and other sources. We need pick-up drivers on Mondays and Fridays between 8:00am and 10:00am. This does require some mild lifting. Please contact Gloria Banks or Rev. Felton Christian at the church if you can assist during these times. You can reach Rev. Felton Christian HERE.
BEREAVEMENT COMMITTEE
We also need individuals to serve on our Bereavement Committee, assisting bereaved families at funerals during the repast. Losing a family member can be one of the most difficult and painful experiences a person will go through. Having a solid support system of friends and other family members is essential during such devastating times. If you are interested in serving, please contact the church office.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Make sure to follow us on our social media pages for upcoming content. For Facebook, that’s Friendship Baptist Church. For Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, it’s @wearefriendshipchurch.
These sessions began on Tuesday, January 24th. They are held weekly on Tuesdays, and three more sessions are left. Sessions go from 7pm until 8pm weekly. The sessions cover “Knowing Your Risk for Heart Disease.” Participants will learn about risk factors for heart disease. Specifically, the sessions will cover the following:
- How to control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
- How to prepare healthy food, particularly African American dishes
- How to be more physically active, have a healthy weight, and quit smoking
MEN NEEDED @ FOOD PANTRY
Attention, Men of Friendship. We need you! We need men to help us pick up donated food from area stores and other sources to serve those with food insecurity. There has been an increase in pick-ups from stores and other sources. We need pick-up drivers on Mondays and Fridays between 8:00am and 10:00am. This does require some mild lifting. Please contact Gloria Banks or Rev. Felton Christian at the church if you can assist during these times. You can reach Rev. Felton Christian HERE.
BEREAVEMENT COMMITTEE
We also need individuals to serve on our Bereavement Committee, assisting bereaved families at funerals during the repast. Losing a family member can be one of the most difficult and painful experiences a person will go through. Having a solid support system of friends and other family members is essential during such devastating times. If you are interested in serving, please contact the church office.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Make sure to follow us on our social media pages for upcoming content. For Facebook, that’s Friendship Baptist Church. For Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, it’s @wearefriendshipchurch.
General Church things to remember:
Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV
2 Cor 13:11: Philp 4:6-7; Psalm 4:8; 2 Thes 3:16; Col 3:15
✔️ The entire Bible,
✔️ The Pentateuch (or the first five books of the Old Testament),
✔️ The entire Old Testament,
✔️ The Gospels (or the first four books of the New Testament),
✔️ The entire New Testament, and
✔️ Psalms and Proverbs (3 times)
Continue to Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, and Stay Connected!
God loves you, and so do I!
In His Service,
Rev. Kenneth C. Curry, Jr.
Your Pastor
- 2023 CHURCH THEME:
Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV
- MARCH PRAYER FOCUS:
2 Cor 13:11: Philp 4:6-7; Psalm 4:8; 2 Thes 3:16; Col 3:15
- BIBLE READING
✔️ The entire Bible,
✔️ The Pentateuch (or the first five books of the Old Testament),
✔️ The entire Old Testament,
✔️ The Gospels (or the first four books of the New Testament),
✔️ The entire New Testament, and
✔️ Psalms and Proverbs (3 times)
- WEEKLY HEALTH WALK
- IN-PERSON EX-HOUR: We invite you to stay after the first service or come earlier for the second service to attend Ex-Hour in person. Remember, we have two adult classes meeting in person on campus and a Young Adult Class. They meet as follows:
- Adult Class One (Sanctuary): The team teaching in the Sanctuary includes Lady Karima Curry, Pamela Jones, Deacon Demetrius Linebarger, Melanie Porter, Vivian Randolph, & Deacon James Shelby
- Adult Class Two (Carrington Building Room 217): The team teaching in the Carrington Building Room 217 includes Le Shon Archer, Deacon Rick Archer, Karen Ammons, Gwen Matthews, and Rev. Phil Yoder
- Young Adults Class (Carrington Building Rooms 207-208): This class is designed for those aged 18-35.
- EX HOUR: Virtual Ex-Hour meets weekly on Sundays via ZOOM. Join us for class at 10am via this link HERE.
- YOUTH EX HOUR: Our in-person youth Ex Hour takes place during our designated EX Hour time in the Multipurpose Building. Parents, please encourage your students to join youth teachers for this biblically fun opportunity to learn God’s Word, connect with others, and grow.
- CHILDREN’S EX-HOUR: As stated in previous weeks, our Children’s ExHour is back and meets on Sundays at 10am in the Multipurpose Building. Parents, please note you must check in and check out your children weekly for Ex-hour.
- MOMMIES WITH BABIES: We have our Mommies with Babies class simultaneously during EX-Hour in the Multipurpose Building. Mommies with two years old and younger children are invited to this EX-HOUR class and are encouraged to bring their children with them! Come for encouragement, community, and growth! Amen!
- WEDNESDAY Prayer Day: Join us each Wednesday for Prayer. We pray at 6:30am, 12pm, and 6:30pm. To connect with our prayer services, please follow this link HERE or dial in at +1 (413) 418-4274 and use the PIN 287683504#.
- FBC FOOD BANK OPEN: The FBC Food Bank is OPEN with a new drive-thru system where our clients will receive a pre-packaged food box and a bag of groceries. The Food Bank’s hours of operation are Tuesday - Thursday, 2:30pm-4:30pm.
Continue to Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, and Stay Connected!
God loves you, and so do I!
In His Service,
Rev. Kenneth C. Curry, Jr.
Your Pastor