The Messenger – July 2020

Dear Church Family,

I have learned the hard way that I am never as strong as I think I am. Like you, I am a work in progress, often taking two steps forward and three steps back. Sometimes I can be the most self-disciplined person you have ever met, the Rock of Gibraltar of self-control. I can go for years without holding a grudge or holding my tongue with people I know with no problem at all. But when someone cuts me off on the road, then all my self-discipline goes out the window in a flash.

Knowing how quickly I’m capable of failing , I’m never going to say for a second, I’m above any sin. I am human as everyone else. Truth be told, we all are. We are all capable of falling short in anyway at any time, and we have to recognize our weaknesses and defend ourselves against attacks from the enemy of sin.

Acknowledging your weakness is the first step toward true strength. And true strength is what is needed in this world today. You are only as strong as you are honest, and if you really want to rely on God, then you must not deceive yourself about your flaws.

This month I think we should focus on building a secure defense system and build habits pleasing to God. Paul writes in 1Corinthians 3:10 “By the grace God has given to me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.” With Gods help we can build stronger relationships including forgiveness and restoration. Like a house is being renovated, some parts have to be torn down before the new design can take shape. You are God‘s masterpiece even when you can’t see the transformation.

Please pray with me…. Lord thank you for tearing down the old sinful ways of my heart and building a strong foundation anchored on you and your word.

In His Service,

Pastor Joe

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sunday School – 8:15 AM in the Community Building

Choir Practice Every Thursday at 1:00pm (Postponed until further notice)

You may reach Pastor Joe at 570-465-7303 or his cell #570-267-4570

Every Thursday Pastor Joe will be at the church from 2-4pm if you need him

Wednesday, July 1stHappy Canada Day!

Saturday, July 4thHappy Independence Day!

Thursday, July 9thPresbyterian Women’s meeting – 11am

Wednesday, July 15thMen’s Action Group meeting – 8am

Tuesday, July 21stSession Meeting – 10am

Tuesday, July 28thNewsletter Deadline

We have been thoroughly blessed by the thoughts and prayers of you all. You have supported us in more ways than you can know and we greatly appreciate that. Each of your many cards and calls brighten the day. The help here, doing the many things we can no longer do well for ourselves, makes living here easier and more pleasant. All things considered, we are really doing well. Taking care of minor and or unexpected medical concerns often interrupt our plans for the day! But doesn’t that happen to us all for one reason or another? We are grateful for all we can do. We are most grateful for the consistent love and caring you, of that beautiful Franklin Hill, have extended to us for all of these years. You all make this world a better place. We are fortunate to know and be known by you. We pray continued blessings on each one. With our Love, Chase and Connie

The children of Rev. John Dabback are asking for cards to be sent to John to help celebrate his 90th birthday on 1 July, 2020. Rev. Dab back was the pastor of Franklin Hill and Hall stead for 24 years. Please share in the outreach to John by sending cards to: Rev. John Dab back, Box 113, Surplussing, PA 18853.

 Clara Singer loves to receive cards Her address is: Barnes Sassoon SNF, 2872 Turnpike Street, Susquehanna, PA 18847 Room #211

 Gwen is asking for burned out, old style, light bulbs - the kind that look like the incandescent of days of old, for her craft projects.

This month there have been numerous changes to the operations with our friends in Kenya.  They sent us a video of their fish pond operations. They are raising catfish and Tilapia and feeding them locally sourced grasses and vegetables.  They also have a mushroom project using ovuova mushrooms, as well as their vegetable farming projects.  Each student is required to pick a project to focus on. Now the Corina virus changes school requirements. They had all shut down and will re-open in Sept. But they need more clean water, desks, toilets, masks, sanitizers. They appeal humbly for support so they can purchase, and build equipment. THANK YOU!  Then Julia, his wife, came down with the flu, and they must continually be alert for Malaria flare ups. This all makes their missionary work very challenging. They are always very grateful for all the support and assistance that we continually provide.        By Jim Koestler

 Prayer ShawlsIf you know of anyone in need of a prayer shawl, please let Carolyn White know.

 Men’s Action Group ***For help with small projects for church family and neighborhood, please call Pastor Joe Travis at #570-465-7303 or email him at joetravis@live.com

 Loose Change Offerings ( coins and bills)

1st Sunday – Local Missions

2nd Sunday – General Fund

3rd Sunday – Kenya/Rev. Malabo

4th Sunday – General Fund

5th Sunday – Trehab Local Food Bank (whenever there is a 5th Sunday)

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