Congregational Care and Family Ministries

(updated 10-30-24)  Friends, It is not the only time we think about blessings and gratitude, but Thanksgiving brings those sentiments front and center. It is a time as we gather with close friends and family that we refocus our hearts and minds on what we’re grateful for, and begin to count those blessings around us. There are so many blessings around me that I have almost lost count. Sometimes I am surprised by all the different ways we are blessed here at BFUMC.  Throughout the newsletter, you will see updates and invitations for a variety of new and established ministries. My prayer is that you will spend time exploring these new opportunities. Here are just a few I want to highlight: 
Sunday School – We have been going BIG this year with our BIG Faith classroom, which begins right after the Children’s Time during our 9:00 a.m. worship. Our November schedule is in this issue.
Youth Group – The Youth Group began on Sunday, October 6 here at church with a CROP Walk in our neighborhood, followed by hot dogs and S’mores. We had nine youth at our first gathering. There are more details of our youth group and the year ahead in this issue.
Eureka! Book Club – We are re-imagining our Book Club in 2025 with movies based on books and some panel discussions sprinkled among our popular book discussions. On November 19, we will have a lively discussion of the book “Fahrenheit 451” by Rad Bradbury. More details are in this issue. 
Thanksgiving Praise & Dinner – We will gather on Wednesday, November 20 to give thanks and celebrate the season with a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. Our Praise time is at 6:00, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Advent Study on zoom – BFUMC and Pennellville will participate together in this seasonal study, which will be held on Wednesdays, December 4, 11, & 18. Sign up in the dining room or office for the study. We will use the book Heaven and Earth by Will Willimon, which is available for $12 at church, or can be purchased at Cokesbury, Amazon or other booksellers. Details are in the newsletter. 
Christmas Caroling & Las Posadas – Sunday, December 22 at 3:00 p.m. – Join us for a fun afternoon of Caroling in the village. This indoor and outdoor event will include singing through the streets of the village in costume, depicting the story of the Nativity and following the popular Christmas tradition of Las Posadas that began in Mexico in 1586.
I hope to see you in many places as we walk together in faith! – Pastor Jeff