Joplin Baptist Church Newsletter July 2008

First Baptist Church of Joplin, Texas

Submitted July 7, 2008

God bless America! With the celebrations of the Fourth of July behind us, let us commit ourselves to seeking what is good in our country and encouraging one another to live as one nation under God. Though, we often have differences, we still are the United States of America.

Sunday, July 6, was a very blessed day at Joplin Baptist Church. The Youth Missionaries were commissioned to God's service. Youth Ministers James and Heather Van Remmen described the upcoming mission to the Navajo Nation in New Mexico where Youth from Joplin Baptist Church and Patillo Baptist Church, among others, will present Vacation Bible School and Bible studies. The Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church were introduced: Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Derrick Self, Shyloe Wright, Amanda Ogle, and Kathryn Hoadley. The commissioning service ended as all of the congregation joined together with prayers and the laying on of hands seeking God's blessing, providence, and protection for these missionaries and mission. Certificates of Appreciation and Pocket New Testaments were given to each missionary. The Youth missionaries depart from Joplin Baptist Church at 6 a.m. on Friday morning, July 11 and will return on July 19.

The sermon at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, July 6, was "Following Christ: Proclaim Liberty." The text was Luke 4:16-21. This passage proclaims Jesus to be the Christ, the Messiah, The Eternal Son of God. Followers of Christ are to proclaim this good news of God's love in both word and deed.

Mark your calendars. Third Sunday Missions Night will be at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 20 at Joplin Baptist Church. Brother Richard Green will present missionary Alfred Cadena and his family who will discuss missions to Mexico. You are all invited and light refreshments will follow.

Vacation Bible School will be hosted by Joplin Baptist Church each night Monday, August 4 through Friday August 8. The next Fifth Sunday Singing will be at Joplin Baptist Church at 6 p.m. on Sunday, August 31, and all are invited.

Submitted July 14, 2008

What do Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Derrick Self, Amanda Ogle, and Kathryn Hoadley have in common? Actually, they have many things in common. They are the Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church who are on mission to the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. They met up with Youth from Patillo Baptist Church and Agnes Baptist Church only with others in the early morning hours on Friday, July 11. By nightfall they were in the Navajo Nation. The rain met them and has continued. However, the rain has not dampened their spirit or desire to proclaim God's word and show God's love. Throughout the week they will present Vacation Bible School, Bible studies, prayer walks, and activities to share cultures. They are scheduled to return to Joplin by evening on July 19. The church will hear their testimonies and view their DVD of this mission experience at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 27. It is wonderful to see young people with such courage and with such love for others. May God be with them and their Youth Minister Heather Van Remmen.

Freda and Brother Loury Drue Nero along with daughter Crystal Smith and her children Kathryn, Christopher, Adrian, and Mia, joined Freda's mother Francis Reeves and sister Kathy Jenkins with son Wacey at the funeral for Ilene Thetford on Wednesday, July 9. Brother Jimmy Spalding officiated the funeral at Bethel Assembly of God and offered many heartfelt reminisces concerning Ilene, Roy, Alice, and Roy, Jr. during their years of faithful attendance. For many years Ilene shared her faith through the Jacksboro and Jack County papers, as she would place weekly Bible verses. There are few in downtown Jacksboro who have not experienced Ilene's love through her homemade cookies. Ilene is missed but we all know that she is with her Lord Jesus Christ in perfect peace. Prayers go out for Alice and James Glenn at this time of loss.

The sermon at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, July 13, was "Following Christ: Have Victory!" The text was 1John 5:1-5. The victory begins when Christ is accepted as Savior and Lord and the believer is Spiritually born again. It then becomes possible to love God completely and obey the commands to love neighbor and one another in Christ. The victory is complete as Jesus is embraced by faith as Savior, Lord, and Eternal Son of God. This is perfect victory made possible only through God's grace shown through His Son.

Brother Richard Green will host third Sunday Mission's Night at Joplin Baptist Church. The special missionary guests are Brother Alfred and Cruz Cadena, and family. They have a long history as missionaries to Mexico. They will share their testimonies with all in attendance, and refreshments will follow. You are all invited to come and experience this special time.

Vacation Bible School will be hosted by Joplin Baptist Church from August 4 through August 8. More details will follow.

Mark your calendars. The next Fifth Sunday Singing will be hosted at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, August 31, at 6 p.m., and you are all invited.

Submitted July 21, 2008

The Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church have returned safely on Saturday, July 19, from a very successful mission to the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. Derrick Self, Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Amanda Ogle, Kathryn Hoadley, Shyloe Wright, and Youth Minister Heather VanRemmen joined others from Patillo Baptist Church and Agnes Baptist Church to present this yearly mission. See the article in today's Jack County Herald for more details. God is praised for the wonderful work He has done through these young people.

Prayers go out for Charlie Bird who was recently hospitalized. He is better and is back at home. In October Charlie will turn ninety-four years young and he is still "as sharp as a tack." We all pray for his health and strength to return.

Rick Worthington is doing much better after recent illness and injury. Prayers go out for his mother Liz who has had a recent injury.

The sermon at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, July 20, was "Following Christ: Be Thankful!" The text was Colossians 3:17. This simple verse is full of guidance for the happy and successful life. Simply put, all things should be done in the name of Lord Jesus and as though they are being done directly to Lord Jesus while continually thanking God the Father through Christ.

Third Sunday Missions Night, July 20, was a blessing for all in attendance and God was exalted. Brother Richard Green, Director of Adult Missions at Joplin Baptist Church, presented Brother Alfred Cadena, wife Cruz Cadena, daughter Deana and husband Oscar with son Nate, and granddaughter Alex. The Cadena's have been missionaries to Mexico for many years. They share their testimonies, Alex and Deana sang beautifully, and Brother Alfred brought a message of encouragement for the church to be active in missions. Fellowship time followed and several at the church expressed interest in going on a mission trip to Mexico.

The next Fifth Sunday Singing will be at Joplin Baptist Church at 6 p.m. on Sunday, August 31. Refreshments will follow. Please, come and bring a friend.

Vacation Bible School at Joplin Baptist Church is coming up! The theme is "Outrigger Island" and will have Hawaiian flare. Heather VanRemmen can be reached for more details 817-565-3431. Monday night, August 4, through Wednesday night, August 6, the VBS will be at Joplin Baptist Church from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with refreshments each night. A swimming party will be at Runaway Bay on Thursday, August 7, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.. Sunday worship service at Joplin Baptist Church, August 10, will give parents a chance to share their children's VBS adventure. Mark your calendars and get the word out.

Submitted July 28, 2008

Whew! It's hot! Remember when the icey north wind was blowing and the cost of propane was on everyone's minds? Well, those days will return and it will be football season before you know it. It's too bad that we can't put some of this summer heat in cans to open when the cold northers blow.

Our volunteer firemen really deserve praise all the time, especially in this severe heat wave. A fire broke out in Joplin on Monday, July 28, north of the power plant area. The firemen did an outstanding job in containing and ending this wild fire. To all who worked so hard, Joplin Community says, "Thank you!"

Gracie Tanner has not been feeling well and prayers go out for her comfort and for her recovery of strength. Her son Bill stays by her side and tends to her needs.

Melba Weaver along with Sherryl Bowen left for Russia on Wednesday, July 30. Sherryl plans to play piano in the First Baptist Church in Moscow on Sunday, August 3. Melba will be returning to Voronesch and visiting Brother Peter Mireychik in order to aid the building of churches. Prayers go out for their safe travel and successful mission.

Mrs. Vickie McAnear was greatly missed at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, July 27. She was at the bedside of her daughter Misty who was hospitalized at Faith Community Hospital. Prayers go out for Misty, Vickie, and all of the family.

The Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church under the direction of Youth Ministers James and Heather VanRemmen led worship at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, July 27. They showed video of their mission to the Navajo Nation and then each gave personal testimonies. It was a beautiful way to worship God and His awesome presence in the lives of the Youth and those in the mission field. Framed pictures of the Missionaries were given to Derrick Self, Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Amanda Ogle, Shyloe Wright, and Kathryn Hoadley. A picture was given to Youth Ministers James and Heather VanRemmen along with one for the church to mount on its wall of memories. The service concluded with the congregation of about eighty coming by to shake the hands of these blessed young people.

The evening service at Joplin Baptist Church was very special. Alfred Cadena and family returned along with Brother Segovia of Messiah Baptist Church of Ciudad Acuna, Mexico. Brother Segovia came with his wife Isidra, son Moses and his family of Jacksboro, and son-in-law Roberto and his family of Acuna. The service was thrilling. As Brother Loury Drue Nero played piano, Brother Richard Green led the mixed congregations in singing"At the Cross." The blending of the English and Spanish words was absolutely beautiful and reminded the congregation that in the eyes of God we are truly brothers and sisters in Christ. Brother Segovia gave his testimony and praised God for the work being done in Acuna as Brother Alfred translated the words into English. At the end of the service, Brother Segovia and his family came forward to sing Psalm 121 in beautiful acapella harmony.

James VanRemmen, Brian Hensley of Gibtown, and Brother Richard Green will join Brother Alfred Cadena in a missionary trip to Acuna, Mexico from August 1 through August 3. They will be guests of Messiah Baptist Church in Acuna under the pastorate of Brother Segovia. Prayer go out for their safe travel and successful mission for the glory of God.

The next Fifth Sunday Singing will be at Joplin Baptist Church at 6 p.m. on Sunday, August 31. Refreshments will follow. Please, come and bring a friend.

Vacation Bible School at Joplin Baptist Church is coming up! The theme is "Outrigger Island" and will have Hawaiian flare. Heather VanRemmen can be reached for more details 817-565-3431. Monday night, August 4, through Wednesday night, August 6, the VBS will be at Joplin Baptist Church from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with refreshments each night. A swimming party will be at Runaway Bay on Thursday, August 7, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.. Sunday worship service at Joplin Baptist Church, August 10, will give parents a chance to share their children's VBS adventure. Mark your calendars and get the word out.

Submitted July 22, 2008

Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church by Loury D. Nero Praises ascend to God from Joplin Baptist Church! The Youth Missionaries have returned from a very successful mission to the Navajo Nation. Youth Minister Heather VanRemmen led the crew of Joplin Baptist Youth Missionaries consisting of Derrick Self, Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Amanda Ogle, Kathryn Hoadley, and Shyloe Wright. They, along with missionaries from Patillo Baptist Church and Agnes Baptist Church, reached the Navajo Nation late at night on July 11 amidst torrential rains. Each day was filled with Vacation Bible School, Bible Study, prayer walks, fellowship meals, and sharing of cultures. During the mission there were over three hundred fed during the fellowship meals, commodities were given, and each night a bike was given. The main statistic was that there were thirty-six who came to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. It was common for the Navajo to stay late yearning to hear more about Christ. There were many who stated that they were undecided, yet were considering Jesus. The Joplin Baptist Youth Missionaries returned Saturday, July 19, ready for bed rest and warm showers after 8 days of roughing it. They brought back memories that will last a lifetime and have made many friends along with brothers and sisters in Christ. The missionaries are already looking forward to next year's trip. You are all invited to hear and see the experiences that these Youth Missionaries have brought back during the special worship service at Joplin Baptist Church at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 27. 2008 Youth Missionaries of Joplin Baptist Church Derrick Self, Kevin LaFountain, Brianna Adams, Kathryn Hoadley, Heather VanRemmen, Shyloe Wright [Amanda Ogle not in picture]

The History Of Joplin Baptist Church

The history of Joplin Baptist Church was recorded in Jack County History, presented by The Jack County Genealogical Society, published by Curtis Media Corporation in 1985. Mrs. Lillie B. Erwin of Joplin Community wrote this history of Joplin Baptist Church. The roots of Joplin Baptist Church began in Pleasant Times Baptist Church under the shade of a large oak tree two and one-half miles east of Joplin in August of 1882. When the village of Joplin began in 1892, the congregation moved to the village and became known as Joplin Baptist Church. The church bought a lot in Joplin and constructed the church that was used until destroyed by a storm in 1918. The church was soon rebuilt, but was destroyed by fire in 1936. There was an old Methodist church on the top of the hill in Joplin that became the next site of Joplin Baptist Church. It was a two-story building that was bought jointly with the Joplin Masonic Lodge. Under the ministry of Brother Doyle Middlebrooks, the new red church on the hill was begun in 1947, and the community built it. In stages the church has grown as new teaching areas, the Community Room, and eventually the new sanctuary with baptistry were added.

The church has been blessed with a faithful congregation. This congregation is very active in support of missions and fellowship with neighboring churches. The Youth of Joplin Baptist Church, under the direction of Youth Ministers James and Heather Van Remmen, are very active and go on yearly missionary trips to the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. Mrs. Vickie McAnear has been pianist for over fifteen years and Mrs. Virginia Roper has led singing with her beautiful voice for decades. Mrs. Yvette Vaughn is Sunday School Superintendent. Mr. Richard Green is Director of Adult Missions. Under the pastorate of Brother Loury Drue Nero, D.O., all who will come to the little red church on the hill are invited.

125th Anniversary Celebrated At Joplin Baptist Church by Loury Drue Nero, D.O.

History was made as we celebrated history at Joplin Baptist Church on Sunday, August 26, 2007. It was the 125th anniversary of Joplin Baptist Church. It was a day to honor God for His continued blessings on this small country congregation.

The day began with thirty minutes of old-time hymn singing by the choir of Joplin Baptist Church. As the choir sang, a slide show was presented of old pictures of the church and community.

At eleven o'clock, the worship began as Bro. Richard Green led the singing, the children sang a very special song, Bro. Stephen Mock read Scripture, and Bro. Loury Drue Nero led prayers. Statements were received and read from past pastors Gary Post, Doug Hutcheson, Calvin Reynolds, Doyle Middlebrooks, and Jay Van Zandt. Past pastors Billy Rhone of Oklahoma, Garland Walker of Plainview, Texas, and Raymond Franklin of Jacksboro gave statements.

Brother Jack Milligan gave the message based on Matthew 25:40. It is Christ's will that we consider the less fortunate among us. At times we may find ourselves in similar circumstances. As God's love surrounds us, we should show that love to others. Bro. Jack was pastor of Joplin Baptist Church from 1955 to 1956 before serving a full career as Army Chaplain throughout the world.

Bobby Cox, the Director of Missions of Harvest Baptist Association, presented a plaque to the church honoring its 125th anniversary. Bible Encyclopedias were given to all the pastors in attendance and bracelets given to their wives. The wives present were Mrs. Laura Rhone, Mrs. Ruth Walker, Mrs. Irene Franklin, Mrs. Joyce Milligan, and Mrs. Rose Mary Cox.

Brother Loury Drue Nero gave the history of Joplin Baptist Church. The church began under an oak tree two and one half miles east of the present location in August of 1882. After the Joplin township was established, the church moved “downtown” as Joplin Baptist Church. That church was destroyed in a storm in 1918 and was rebuilt only to burn down in 1936. The Joplin congregation joined with the Joplin Masonic Lodge to buy the old Methodist church on top of the hill in Joplin. Under the pastorate of Bro. Doyle Middlebrooks, the present red brick church was begun in 1947. Additional space for classrooms was added in the 1970’s and 1980’s. The Community Room was finished in 1999. The remodeled and enlarged sanctuary was completed and dedicated on December 23, 2001.

After the congregation sang "Amazing Grace," a prayer of rededication was shared. Every family group received a copy of the Scrapbook and DVD Slide Show. Cooper Van Remmen, aged six, was recognized as the youngest member of Joplin Baptist Church. Mr. Charlie Bird, age 92, was recognized as the most mature member.

Over one hundred people congregated in the Community Room of Joplin Baptist Church for fellowship. Jeremy and Jessica Cannon of 4-C's Restaurant served the congregation a fantastic catered barbecue meal with all the trimmings. No one left hungry. The food could not be beat. Their restaurant is at the intersection of SH 199 and FM 920.

Joplin Baptist Church thanks all who attended and all who worked so hard to make this special observance of history successful. Above all the church thanks its head, Jesus Christ, and asks His continued leadership and blessing.

We at Joplin Baptist Church invite all to come by the church between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Monday, Labor Day, for free refreshments served in the parking lot. The church is collecting donations for The Muscular Dystrophy Association during this special Labor Day of Love. Your donations are greatly appreciated. Joplin Baptist Church is located fourteen miles southeast of Jacksboro on SH 199. Our motto is, “Proclaim God’s truth, and show God’s love!”

See pictures of the 125th anniversary by copying the following url and pasting it into your brower.

www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=j7e5zeq.9z3ptb7q&x=0&y=-fxedgg

Love Shown at Joplin Baptist Church On Labor Day by Loury Drue Nero, D.O.

Love was shared with travelers on SH 199 during the First Annual Labor Day Of Love at Joplin Baptist Church in Joplin, Texas on September 3, 2007. From six in the morning until noon free refreshments were offered to all the weary travelers who wished to stop. The travelers were then given an opportunity to donate to The Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Mr. Richard Green, the Director of Adult Missions at Joplin Baptist Church, set up his pavilion, assembled the tables laden with cold drinks, coffee, water, chips, and cookies. Country gospel sweetly filled the air from the CD player. Gospel tracks were prepared to give to all who stopped. With the assistance of the Youth of Joplin Baptist Church, signs were prepared to proclaim this rest stop of love. Church volunteers helped man this station. These volunteers included Mrs. Flo Milton, Mrs. Mildred Graham, Mrs. Connie Milton, Mrs. Bonnie Montgomery, Mrs. Freda Nero, Pastor Loury Drue Nero, and Mr. Bill Tanner.

The Youth of Joplin Baptist Church made this event especially wonderful, Kathryn Hoadley, Brianna Adams, and Mia Smith dressed as cheerleaders caught the attention of every traveler. Adrian Smith, Billy Shipp, and Christopher Hoadley held signs and invited the travelers to stop. When a caravan of vintage automobiles went by, the sound of “ah-u-ga” horns made everyone smile. Trucks honked their air horns and motorcycles revved their engines.

The church was prepared for this Labor Day of Love by the sermon delivered on Sunday, September 2. The sermon was “Following Christ: Love!” The text was 1John 4:7-11. Followers of Christ should love others in Christ-like manner. This expression of love originates with God and is a sign of the true believer in Jesus Christ. Because God loves us so much as to offer His Son Jesus Christ for the sins of all who will believe, all should love one another out of love for God.

Across the nation, the Muscular Dystrophy Association collected over sixty-four million dollars during the Labor Day Telethon. Over three million dollars of that total came from the north Texas area. Of that amount, $1029.98 was collected for the Muscular Dystrophy Association as love was shared at the “the little red church on the hill” in Joplin, Texas on this beautiful Labor Day morning. God is thanked for using this congregation in His service.