Newsletter

December 2024

The Journey is Part of The Gift

As we enter the CHRISTmas season we are coming into one of the three largest gift giving seasons rivaled only by Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.  This season probably presents the greatest challenge as far as finding the perfect gift because with this holiday we usually have more than just one person to provide a surprising, personal, and useful gift.  Some people travel many miles to try to find that perfect gift, spending much time in thought and energy to try to find that unique and memorable present.

The greatest gift of all came to us from GOD in the form of a man.  Jesus came from a position with The Father and took on the form of servant to be our sacrifice.  GOD traveled through time and space to give us the perfect gift.  It fits, it is what we need, it is perfect for each of us.

Truly Jesus is the perfect answer for all our needs.  Isaiah 9:6 puts it like this, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  He came so far for us.

Pray For

Phyllis Adams, Paul Bess, Larry Hubbard, Annie Nixon, Lewis Simmons, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Aby Shrewsberry, Anastasia Steenbergen, Sharon Steinmetz, Billy Vance, Sharon Scroggs Walpole, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, Unspoken requests and Missionaries, National leaders, our country, law enforcement and our military.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know You are a big and all-powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus’ precious name we pray.  Amen

December Birthdays

1   Chyenne Long

4   Emily West

7   Jane Ellen Shirley

7   Jerry Scott

7   Derek Neeley

12  Sheila Neal

15  Bob Cody

17  Kenneth Robertson

22  Helen Charton

24   Billy Vance

28  Donna Weatherly

29  John Criddle

M&M Christmas Story

As you hold these candies in your hand and turn them, you will see…

The M becomes a W, an E, and then a 3.

They tell the Christmas story it’s one I’m sure you know.

It took place in a stable a long, long time ago.

The E is for the East where the star shone oh so bright.

The M is for the Manger where the baby Jesus slept that night.

The 3 is for the Wisemen bearing gifts, they say they came.

W is for Worship, Hallelujah, Praise to His name.

So, as you eat these candies or share them with a friend,

remember the Spirit of Christmas and never let it end!

Merry Christmas

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

June 11, Nolen & Wanda Owen

June 26, Doug & Jeanie Scroggs

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

May, 2023

Visitors Welcome

Signs often announce, “Visitors Welcome” but should they really be necessary? Hopefully when a visitor gets inside the door, if not before, he/she is made to feel welcome. We are blessed to have visitors often and the fact that many return is evidence that they feel at home or at least welcome when they pass through.

It is a blessing when they feel comfortable enough to share their talents and abilities with us. We have had some very pleasant surprises from our visitors and even have had some stay extra to enjoy time with us. When we have visitors we pray that they leave as blessed from being here as we are blessed to get to worship with them.

We are encouraged by these words from the writer of Hebrews 12:1-2, “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Remember you may be entertaining an angel, or you may be the angel someone needs to see today.

Pray For
Phyllis Adams, Paul Bess, Erica Byers, Annette Couch, Mary Ann Eades, Danielle, Keith & Family, Denise Head, A.B. Hundley, Dot King, Joe the Barber, Lawrence Henley, E.Kaye Jones, Lewis Simmons, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Jay Scroggs, Anastasia Steenbergen, Sharon Steinmetz, Harley West, Coe Wilson, Donna Weatherly, Unspoken requests & Missionaries, National leaders & our country.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of
blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday

May 3, Brooklyn Lankford
May 15, Jeremy Crow
May 23, Lily Young
May 24, Sherri Crow
May26, Ellen Robertson
May 27, Abigayle Curtis

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

April, 2024

The Resurrection

Today we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. On Friday nearly 2000 years ago, Jesus had been placed in a borrowed tomb. His disciples, the ones closest to Him, were confused and probably shaken to the core by the loss. Their thoughts took them back over the past three years and the journey they had taken with Him. The lessons they had learned as they walked by His side probably replayed through their minds and conversations throughout the
weekend.

Even the fact that He had warned them of His death was no doubt little consolation to them as Jesus’ body lay in the grave. Every emotion each of us feels during a time of grief was going through their minds. You can imagine how the stress of the grief process literally drained the strength and desire to get out and go on from the disciples. When they were still in the deepest throes of despair because of the loss of their best friend, strange news came from the graveyard. The ladies who had made the trek to the tomb to put the burial spices on the body of Jesus had an exciting revelation to share with them. The tomb was empty, He was not there, He was alive.

That news changed everything, not just got the women, and the disciples, but for all of mankind.  He is alive, He is risen!

Bro Bill Scroggs          

Prayer Concerns

Phyllis Adams, Annette Couch, Mary Ann Eades, Dot King, Joe the Barber, Lawrence Henley, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Matt Steinmetz, Sharon Steinmetz, Lewis Simmons, Donna Weatherly, Jay Scroggs, Anastasia Steenbergen, Danielle Morgan and Keith Steenbergen, Denise Head, Harley West

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with our friends and family as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen

March Birthday
March 31, Reta Scroggs

April Birthdays 
April 8, Jeanie Scroggs 
April 9, Ken Andrews 
April 18, Stan Shirley
April 20, Annie Rozivka
April 25, Darla Criddle

April Anniversaries

April 6, Ken and June Andrews

April 16, Bob and Anna Cody

Why Did Jesus Fold the Napkin?

Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection?
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded and was placed separate from the grave clothes. Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and I don’t know where they have put him”. Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn’t go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus’ head was folded up and lying to the side.

Was that important? Absolutely!  Is it really significant? Yes!

In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it… The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished. Now, if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, “I’m done.” But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because……….. The folded napkin meant, “I’m coming back”.

He is Coming Back!

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

March 2024

Isn’t It Funny

Isn’t it funny that when the temperatures rise from the thirties to the mid fifties it feels like spring is here. And when we have a day or two in the fifties to sixties that drops to the forties we think winter has returned. When our temperatures soar, so do our spirits, thinking we are ready for warmer weather. As temperatures dip closer to freezing gloom sets in and many curl up with a blanket and shiver dreaming of icicles hanging from roofs, trees, and noses.

In about a month or so the temperatures will stabilize, and the mercury will climb toward the hot side and many again will not be satisfied. Isn’t it funny that our perspective many times are not exactly reality? Fortunately, our climate has enough changes to keep it interesting. It is funny that one man’s cold is another’s comfortable.

One man’s comfortable is another’s too hot! Since we can’t change the weather, we might as well enjoy it, or at least get used to it. The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:7-8, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.   And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”

Bro. Bill Scroggs

Prayer Concerns

Phyllis Adams, Sue Castle, Helen Charton, Annette Couch, Katie Driskell, Mary Ann Eades, Linda Jones, Dot King, Joe the Barber, Lawrence Henley, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Lewis Simmons, Sharon Steinmetz, Donna Weatherly, Jay Scroggs, Sherry Sawyer, Anastasia Steenbergen, Danielle Morgan and Keith Steenbergen, Nancy Donovan.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with our friends and family as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday

March 6, Gwyn Gasaway

March 20, Patti Vance

March 31, Reta Scroggs

Happy Anniversary

March 5, John and Darla Criddle

March 19 Frank and Lily Young
March 28, Clayton and Linda Jones

BIBLE QUIZ

1. Finish this proverb: “Where there is no vision, …”____________________________
See: Proverbs 29:18
2. “And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh” Gen 37:19 Who is the dreamer
in this verse?____________________________________
See: Genesis 37:19
3. Finish this Proverb: “Labour not to be …”___________________________
See: Proverbs 23:4
4. Complete this verse: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth…..”
________________________________
See: Isaiah 52:7
5. Complete this verse from Job: “…for the price of wisdom is ………….”_____________
See: Job 28:18
6. Who does God call: “…my firstborn, higher than the kings of the earth.”?_____________
See: Psalms 89:27
7. Who said, “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.”_________   
See: Philippians 3:7
8. Who said: “Come now, and let us reason together…though your sins be as scarlet, they shall
be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” ___________    
See: Isaiah 1:18
9. What does Paul call the Galatians? ___________________
See: Galatians 3:1
10. Who begins their book with: “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath
spoken…” ___________________  
See: Isaiah 1:2

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

February 2024

Sweetheart of a Deal

When was the last time you received a love letter? When was the last time you wrote your spouse or boyfriend or girlfriend a love letter? (Texts do not count) Can your spouse, girlfriend, or boyfriend remember your last love letter and the details it contained?  Was it intimate, or general info that could have had the name changed and sent to someone else?

God wrote you (me/us) a love letter. Sprinkled throughout its pages are sweet nothings He wants us to know and remember. His letter to us is filled with intimate things He wants us to find. Even now, His Word is as fresh as the day He gave the truths to each of the characters we find in His letter. The Bible is His love letter to each of us.

 e can start in Genesis and work our way through The Revelations and find clues and invitations He has hidden just for us. He made us in His own image. He knew us even before He formed us in our mother’s womb.  He has dripped messages throughout The Bible letting us know His thoughts are on us constantly. He lets us know He will not leave us nor forsake us–no matter what. He lets us know that He has left the Holy Spirit to lead, comfort, and guide us in our trials and temptations.

Then, in our search of Scripture, we find the most quoted verse, or maybe the second-most quoted verse (right behind Ephesians 6:1: “Children, obey your parents”) John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  The sweetheart of the deal is that He loves us (me) in spite of ourselves. If you don’t believe me, re-read His love letter to you.

Bro. Bill Scroggs

Prayer Concerns

Phyllis Adams, Sue Castle, Helen Charton, Annette Couch, Katie Driskell, Mary Ann Eades, Linda Jones, Dot King, Joe the Barber, Lawrence Henley, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Lewis Simmons, Sharon Steinmetz, Donna Weatherly, and Bill and Coe Wilson,

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with our friends and family as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday

Feb. 1 Ann Vance

Happy Anniversary
 Feb. 1, Kenneth and Ellen Robertson

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

January 2024

Happy 2024!

Happy New Year! It is a time of new beginnings and an opportunity to look forward to the blessings that are in store for us. Yes, there is a world of blessings in store for each of us if we are willing to open our eyes and see them. True, we can find trials, wars, wickedness and trouble if that is what we want to see, or we can see GOD’s love, protection and provision all around us if we desire to see that.

This year will be like years in the past, it will be what we make it.  The apostle Paul gives these words of encouragement in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the LORD always, again I say rejoice.” While that is not always the immediate reaction, but James 5:11 gives us this reminder, “Behold we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the LORD; that the LORD is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.”

The writer of Psalm 1:1-3 (CSB) puts it this way, “How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path of sinners, or join a group of mockers! Instead, his delight is in the Lord's instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. He is like a tree planted beside streams of water that bears its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.”

Happy New Year!

Bro. Bill Scroggs

Prayer Concerns

Phyllis Adams, Sue Castle, Helen Charton, Annette Couch, Katie Driskell, Kelly Dutton, Mary Ann Eades, E. Kaye Jones, Dot King, Joe the Barber, Lawrence Henley, Tracy Reed, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Louis Simmons, Sharon Steinmetz, Donna Weatherly, Harley West. and Bill and Coe Wilson

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with our friends and family as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday 

January 2, Frank Young 
January 4 Gina Sellers
January 21, Matt Steinmetz

Happy Anniversary

January 13, Beau and Sharon Steinmetz

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

November, 2023

For Such A Time As This

There has never been a time like the days in which we are living. You are
the one to influence your children, grandchildren and even great grand-
children for those of us already blessed with such. We have friends,
neighbors and co-workers that God has put in our path. Those we call
friends have even been placed in our pool of acquaintances to help make us
into servants He needs us to be for our other friends and neighbors.
Maybe He has even placed us in the path of some challenging folks. I would
not necessarily address them as enemies, just difficult friends. The apostle
Paul in Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood.”
Now I have many weird and difficult acquaintances, but I would not say they
are my enemies. I reserve that level for powers and principalities in places of
darkness that are enemies of God my Heavenly Father.
Even though we wrestle not against flesh and blood peculiar friends are here
to help shape us into being more like Christ. Remember not only are they in
your life, but you are in their life for a purpose. Live for HIM so HE can live
through you.

Happy Birthday 
Nov. 6, Phyllis Adams 
Nov. 15, Greg Gasaway 
Nov. 18, E.Kaye Jones
Nov. 29, June Andrews

Happy Anniversary

Nov. 6, Wayne &Phyllis Adams

Nov. 25, Cecil & E.Kaye Jones

 Nov. 25, Jerry & Barbara Scott

A Birthday Dinner

There will be a spaghetti dinner on Nov. 19th in honor of E. Kaye Jones as she celebrates
her 75th birthday. Please see Linda Jones if you want to help with this celebration.

TONIGHT

Fifth Sunday Singing will begin at 5 o’clock tonight! We will have special
guests and this event will be followed by a rib-dinner by Uncle Doug and
friends. Come and enjoy!
****************************************************************************************************

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

October, 2023

The start of the final quarter of the year! As with any game it is not over
until the end of the last quarter. Also with most games, there will be some
surprises before the end of the game/year. We are just completing the Dixie
Jackson Missions Offering for state missions and have been blessed to have
exceeded our goal. To have exceeded the goal is a blessing not just for the
money, but for the mission opportunities that can be completed for our
state.

Now we ‘get’ to participate in the Annual Conway County Care Center’s
Harvest Food Drive. We have been tasked with collecting fifty containers of
oatmeal. They service 350 families per month in Conway County with food
baskets as well as other ways of helping folks.

Then creeping into November, we will begin our Lottie Moon Christmas
Offering for international missions. It is hard to believe we are this close to
the time of celebrating Christmas. We are reminded in John 4:35, “Say not
yet, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto
you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to
harvest.”

Truly, time is short for 2023. The harvest for this year is at hand. Yet it is
not time to sit down and rest. We are reminded in Hebrews 12:1, “Let
us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Let’s finish strong!

Happy Birthday

October 23  Doug Scroggs

Happy Anniversary
October 12 Bro. Bill and Reta Scroggs

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

August, 2023

The Last of Summer

Creeping into August we are anticipating warm weather and dry days. We might even
say it will be very close to what we saw in July except probably much drier. With the
warmer drier weather, we see crops maturing and the feeling of school and football
season approaching. As always, we habitual Razorback fans are looking forward to a
victorious season. Hopefully we will not be disappointed.

The last of the vacations with the children will be taken and memories will be finalized
for this vacation season. Some final vacations might be delayed until the heat breaks
and temperatures are more bearable. Our last holiday of the summer, (Labor Day) will
soon be marked off the schedule and we will start hoping for nicer temperatures. It is
also the season for our Dixie Jackson State Missions Offering. This is a special offering
to me, as some of our building funds came from grants and loans as a result of these
offerings. All four churches I attended, including the three I have pastored have been
recipients of funds from Dixie Jackson Offerings. I am proud to say, all of these
churches have more than given back through the offerings of these funds. The Bible
reminds us in Luke 6:38, Give and it shall be given unto you.” Thank You GOD, let the
droughts end and the blessings continue to fall on us.

Bro. Bill Scroggs

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Anna Cody, Mary Cody, Pearl Cody, Reta
Dutton, Mary Ann Eades, Brian Hubbard, EK Jones, AJ Pitts, Wesley Robinson,
Annie Rozivka, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Abby Schewsbury, Loren Silva, Jane Ellen Shirley,
Sharon Steinmetz, Lillian Tousley, Harley West, Bill Wilson. Unspoken requests and;
Missionaries, National leaders and our country.

Happy Birthday

July 30 Cylinda Curtis 

August 1, Ariel Morgan
August 1, Easton Morgan
August 3, Jeffrey Curtis
August 6, Beau Steinmetz
August 10, Coe Wilson
August 11, Karen Long
August 18, A.B.Hundley
August 25, Bill Wilson
August 30, Nolen Owen

Happy Anniversary

August 6, Bubba & Patti Vance

August 22 Jerry & Helen Charton

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

June, 2023

Is Summer Here, or Is It Just Getting Hot?

The month of June is the official start of summer, and it is beginning to look and feel like it is
already here. I mean I like some spring and temperate weather, but we don’t always get our
desires. It's not just the weather, but have you noticed the chatter back and forth over the
budget, politics, books, gender confusion and many other topics that can elevate the
temperatures in a room. With our presidential elections over a year away we can only imagine
the chaos, confusion and other discord that will heat up over the next year. Our weather goes
in cycles, it is a shame that many of the challenges of this world don’t cycle away as easily.
The writer of Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for
every matter under heaven.” GOD changes and controls the seasons of weather, and whether
we understand or not, HE also controls everything else in this world. HE also controls the
hearts of kings, turning them whichever way, HE wishes (Proverbs 21:1). Just as we sometimes
we have to wait for the seasons to change and bring us sunshine and rain, I am waiting for GOD
to squeeze some of those hearts of kings to give us some relief down here.

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Jerry Charton, Mary Ann Eades, Daphne
Higginbotham, EK Jones, AJ Pitts, Wesley Robinson, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill
Scroggs, Abby Schewsbury, Loren Silva, Jane Ellen Shirley, Sharon Steinmetz, Phyllis Taylor,
Lillian Tousley, Bill Vance, Harley West, Bill Wilson. Unspoken requests, Missionaries,
National leaders & our country.

Our Prayer
Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all
powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and
loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday

June 10 – Anna Cody

June 18 – Wanda Owen

June 20 – Bro. Bill Scroggs

June 21 – Linda Jones

June 29 – Sharon Steinmetez

Happy Anniversary

 June 11, Nolen & Wanda Owen 

June 21, Bill & Coe Wilson 

June 26, Doug & Jeanie Scroggs 

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

May, 2023

Maybe

As Spring has come into focus with storms and a record level of moisture
this year, hopefully the weather will settle down and let our flowers and
crops burst forth. This week was supposed to be our last cold snap, known
as Blackberry Winter, so let the sunshine in!
Seasons come and seasons go without us being able to change them to our
preferences. As much as many of us would desire to manipulate the climate
to our liking, we can make very little difference. The truth is that my
preferences would trample on yours, and vice versa. Since your way could
be better than my way, I am content to let GOD be GOD and looking back I
believe HIS way is better than I could have come up with.
GOD, in Isaiah 55:8 tells us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.” 
As GOD took care of HIS servants in Isaiah’s day, He is still capable of caring
for us today. Going from spring headed toward summer, maybe, just maybe
we can look forward to the sun on our backs and shining on our faces seeing
HE is still on HIS throne caring for us.

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Jerry Charton, Mary Ann Eades, Daphne
Higginbotham, Rick Raney, Wesley Robinson, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill Scroggs,
Abby Schewsbury, Loren Silva, Jane Ellen Shirley, Sharon Steinmetz, Phyllis Taylor, Lillian
Tousley, Harley West, Bill Wilson. Unspoken requests and Missionaries, National leaders and our
country.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all
powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and
loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday
May 3, Brooklyn Lankford
May 23, Lily Young
May26, Ellen Robertson
May 27, Abigayle Curtis

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

April 2023

April Showers

 The surprises that come with April showers are hopefully May flowers.  With April showers, many times in the spring are storms, which I don’t think many of us need any more.  One of the blessings we are going to enjoy this year is the celebration of The Resurrection!  The date for the celebration varies from March to April each year, and I for one, like an April celebration because it is warmer and the sunrise is after seven o’clock instead of six o’clock.

I love the celebration of the Resurrection because it is the culmination of all of God’s purpose in sending HIS Son, Jesus, to the earth, fulfilling prophesy and completing the redemption process for mankind.  When all that was necessary for the process to be finished it is time for the celebration spoken of in John 3:16 when Jesus said, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

That my brothers and sisters is a celebration of “Victory in Jesus!

We Lift Up In Prayer

Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams. Paul Bess, Sam Cody, Mary Ann Eades, Daphne Higginbotham, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Abby Shrewsbury, Loren Silva, Jane Ellen Stanley, Sharon Steinmetz, Phyllis Taylor, Lillian Tousley, Harley West, Bill Wilson.  Unspoken requests and missionaries, Natgional leaders and our country

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know you are a big and all powerful God, that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus name we pray.  Amen

Happy Birthday

4/8 Jeanie Scroggs

4/9 Ken Andrews

4/18 Stan Shirley

4/20 Annie Rozivka

4/25 Darla Criddle

Happy Anniversary

4/6 Ken and June Andrews

4/16 Bob and Anna Cody

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

March, 2023

Marching On!

Wow as we find our temperature creeping into the seventies, we feel we may have
begun to enter spring. The warmer weather makes us want to shed the jackets and
put something into the ground. The buttercups and other early spring flowers
beckon for us to jump into the gardening season. However, the looks may be
deceiving. We have had snowstorms into March before and we know there possibly
can be some more cool weather as well as the storms that come as the weather
transitions from cold to hot.

As the weather gets warmer and spring is around the corner our attention is drawn
to Easter and our Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for North American Missions.
This year’s motto is: United: Called To Be One. That is a good strategy for
basketball, football or whatever team you are on. We live in a world of dog-eat-dog
competitions but think what happens when we work together.  
The scripture for this season of offering is these words from the apostle Paul, “If
there be any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same
way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.” Philippians 2:1-
2 (CSB).

Let us lay aside the jealousies and pettiness that keeps us from working together
for GOD and HIS Kingdom.

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Barry Carter, Sam Cody, Mary Ann Eades, Cindy
Griffith, E Kaye Jones James Meadows, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Loren
Silva, Alice Simmons, Sharon Steinmetz, Phyllis Taylor, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Donna
Weatherly, Harley West, Bill Wilson. Unspoken requests & Missionaries, National leaders &
our country.

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all
powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and
loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday 
March 6 Gwyn Gasaway 
March 20 Patti Vance 
March 31 Reta Scroggs 

Happy Anniversary

March 5 John and Darla Criddle

March 19 Frank and Lily Young

March 28 Clayton and Linda Jones

2023 Annie Armstrong Easter Offering

“United: Called to be One” is the theme for this year’s Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for

North American Missions. The Annie Armstrong Missions Offering emphasis is not just an
opportunity to give our money, but an even greater opportunity to impact our neighborhoods
and communities with the wonderful news of God’s involvement in our lives. All of us are
painfully aware of the lost condition of people with whom we bump shoulders every day. These
lost people are our neighbors – people right down the street from our houses. They need to
know of the hope we have in Jesus Christ.

Working together we can be difference-makers in sharing the Gospel across our land. The
suggested dates for this emphasis are March 5 – 12, 2023. During this Week of Prayer for North
American Missions, consider how you can make a Kingdom impact by praying fervently, giving
sacrificially, and going intentionally to work alongside our Southern Baptist missionaries to do
our part in sharing God’s powerful message of hope and forgiveness.

Annie Armstrong is the missionary for whom this Offering was named. She was very involved
in missionary work and led the creation of the Women’s Missionary Union. The annual Easter
mission offering was established in the Southern Baptist Churches in 1895 and came to bear her
name in 1935.

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

February, 2023

February Just a Little Month?

After a busy last quarter of the year with thanks Giving and CHRISTmas, we
made it to New Year’s Day and then survived the cold month of January.
Even though we only had a little cold weather and some form of winter
precipitation, we survived and have (almost) arrived at the little month of
February.
With only twenty-eight or twenty-nine days and in the last part of the winter
you might think it of relatively little or no significance. But hold up… Are we
going to forget the single most celebrated weather forecasting day of the
year, Groundhog’s Day? And what about the fourteenth, Thanksgiving Day
for our sweethearts, Valentine’s Day?
All my life this small month has been important to me and our family. Mom
shared a birthday with the groundhog on the 2 nd of the month, and Dad’s
birthday is on the thirteenth which means every six to eight years he gets to
celebrate on Friday the Thirteenth. This month is so important that every
four years it is given an extra day to make up for the deficiency. Every
month as well as every day is important and apostle Paul reminds us in
Philippians 4:4 with these words, “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I
say rejoice.” Oh, have you heard? February is Ann Vance’s birthday month?
If not, stay tuned you will! Another reason to rejoice!

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Barry Carter, Sam Cody, Mary Ann
Eades, Cindy Griffith, Dot King, James Meadows, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott,
Bro. Bill Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family. Sharon Steinmetz, Phyllis Taylor,
Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, Bill Wilson.
Unspoken requests & Missionaries, National leaders & our country.

Happy Birthday Ann Vance February 1

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

January 2023

Happy New Year

Once again, we have finished a pass around the sun and are beginning a new year. As I was
staring at the newest calendar and the date of 2023, I came to the reality that we are fast
approaching one fourth of this century being completed. I remember when we were looking
forward to celebrating the 200th anniversary of the United States. Now forty-six years have
passed since that milestone. I remember in the nineteen eighties someone had predicted a
massive earthquake occurring along the New Madrid fault in northeast Arkansas that would
affect the Mississippi river and much of eastern boundary of Arkansas. Most of us can
remember twenty-three years ago when there was a scare concerning the calendar rolling over
to the year 2000.
It seems each decade and even each year has its own challenges and opportunities. What will
we face in this new year? Will this be the best year yet? It can be the best year yet, and for
some people it will be. How our day, month and year turns out will at least in part be because
of how we choose to approach it. The best way to begin and to continue is found in Matthew
6:33 where Jesus says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these
things shall be added unto you.”
Whatever comes our way, GOD will be with us and lead us through it. He will not be stunned or
surprised by whatever comes our way as Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same
yesterday, today and forever.”

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Paul Bess, Barry Carter, Sam Cody, Mary Ann Eades, James
Meadows, Gloria Renfroe, Annie Rozivka, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley
Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, Bill
Wilson. Unspoken requests, Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National
Leaders and The USA.

Our Prayer Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful
God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-
kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen

Happy Birthday 

Jan. 2 Frank Young
Jan. 4 Gina Sellers
Jan. 21 Matthew Steinmetz

Happy Anniversary

Jan. 13 Beau and Sharon Steinmetz 

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

December 2022

The Mission

The journey to Calvary (not even Bethlehem) began in the garden, and not even the
garden of Gethsemane, but the garden of Eden. Jesus’ trip to Bethlehem and ultimately
the cross of Calvary became necessary because of Adam and Eve’s sin in the garden
of Eden. The Method of redemption required a, sacrifice. GOD in HIS infinite wisdom,
compassion and mercy made ready the perfect lamb, HIS own Son.
The trip from Eden to Bethlehem was preceded by a Messenger. The angel Gabriel was
sent by GOD to Mary to announce to her the special favor she had with the Lord (Luke
1:26-28). The Message was received by Mary and ultimately Joseph as he loved Mary
and listened to the messenger sent to him. Mary rejoiced as she began to understand
her role in the mission of GOD and said in Luke 1:46-47, “My soul doth magnify the
LORD, and my spirit hath rejoiced in GOD my Saviour.”
The Method, the Messenger, and the Message was part of the Mission of GOD to bring
salvation to each of us. “For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten
SON that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life” (John
3:16).

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Anna Cody, Connie (from Stix), Mary Ann Eades,
Agatha Gasaway, Chester Head, James Meadows, Gloria Renfroe, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill &
Reta Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Donna
Weatherly, Harley West, Unspoken requests, Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement,
State and National Leaders and The USA.

Our Prayer Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday

Nov. 29 June Andrews Nov. 29 Stephanie Engledowl
Dec. 1 Chyenne Long Dec. 7 Jane Ellen Shirley
Dec. 7 Jerry Scott Dec. 15 Bob Cody
Dec. 17 Kenneth Robertson Dec. 22 Helen Charton
Dec. 24 Bill Vance Dec. 29 John Criddle

**************************************************************************
Ariel, Our Girl !
Ariel Morgan, sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” in Church for our Veterans Day celebration. She first
sang the song as a solo without music. She then led the congregation in singing the first verse. Great
job!

This eight-year-old has been chosen to be a part of the Mighty Pups Choir from Morrilton Elementary
school. Forty students were chosen from the 2nd
and 3rd grades. They are required to memorize all the words and music to all of
the songs and to sing a cappella. Ariel was really proud that the choir was invited
to sing at Dickey Stephens Park. More occasions include nursing homes, the State
Capital and others. What a wonderful experience these children are having and a
special “Hats off” to the teacher leading this group.
For our church music, twin brother, Easton, joins Ariel.
Two of their favorites are “I’ll Fly Away” and “Victory In
Jesus”. We are so proud of both of them and look
forward to hearing them sing every chance we get! It is fun to
watch the foot tapping, hand clapping expressions, too!

The Mighty Pups Choir will be singing at the State Capital
December 6th . This event is open to the public.

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

November, 2022

November

Twenty-twenty-two is trickling down. We only have a couple of months until we get to tear off
the last day of the calendar. But… there is a lot of time left to cover in these months. We have
several days of celebration in November and leading up to our celebration of the birth of our
LORD and Savour, Jesus CHRIST. The trouble is it is all going to fly by as has 2022. I am
reminded of our Dixie Jackson motto for this year, “While it is Still Light.”
There are still sixty-one days left ahead to work while there is still light. In reality, there are only
sixty-one days until 2023. This is not the time to put on the brakes, but to run through the finish
line. We have been blessed with some victories this year, but again it is not the time to rest,
but time to embrace the task(s) ahead. There has been much done, but plenty of opportunity
for all in the days ahead. And guess what, next year promises to have challenges of it’s on.
Remember these words from the writer of Ecclesiastes 9:10, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to
do, do it with all thy might.” This is a word to the living, because time is short.

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Anna Cody, Connie (from Stix), Mary Ann Eades,
Stephanie Engledowl, Agatha Gasaway, Kay George, Chester Head, James Meadows, Gloria
Renfroe, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family,
Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Patti Vance, Duke Walker, Donna Weatherly, Harley West,
Unspoken requests, Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National Leaders
and The USA.

Our Prayer Dear Lord, it
seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful
God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-
kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday
Nov. 2 Danny Engledowl
Nov. 6 Phyllis Adams 
Nov. 15 Greg Gasaway 
Nov. 18 E Kaye Jones 
Nov. 29 June Andrews
Nov. 29 Stephanie Engledowl

 Happy Anniversary

N0v. 6 Wayne and Phyllis Adams

N0v. 25 Cecil and E, Kaye Jones

Nov. 25 Jerry and Barbara Scott  

**************************************************************************

Thanksgiving Proclamation, 3 October 1789
Thanksgiving Proclamation [New York, 3 October 1789]
By the President of the United States of America. a Proclamation.
Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will,
to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor—and whereas both
Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me “to recommend to the People of the
United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful
hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to
establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”
Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted
by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent
Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be—That we may then all unite in rendering unto
him our sincere and humble thanks—for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country
previous to their becoming a Nation—for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable
interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war—for
the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed—for the peaceable and
rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety
and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted—for the civil and religious liberty
with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in
general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.
and also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great
Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech him to pardon our national and other transgressions—to enable
us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and
punctually—to render our national government a blessing to all the people, by constantly being a
Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed—to
protect and guide all Sovereigns and Nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us) and to
bless them with good government, peace, and concord—To promote the knowledge and practice of
true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us—and generally to grant unto all
Mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as he alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand at the City of New-York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.
Go: Washington

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

October 2022

October

October is an exciting month and even now retailers are setting up displays for
Christmas and crowding out the fall celebrations. Of course, there are pumpkins and
pumpkin spice ‘everything’ is creeping up everywhere. This week I even learned at
least one store has a display for Egg Nogg, or as my granddaughter says, ‘Christmas
milk.’ As we push the holidays together there is a danger of missing the celebration on
October 23 rd as well as other dates of importance. If you can find them, you may want
to get your turkey for Thanksgiving, however they may still be available for Christmas
since it is forecasted for the birds of choice to be six dollars a pound.
With the rush and fuss of retailers in a hurry to get ahead of the competition we need to
follow suit and start giving thanks so as not to miss Thanksgiving and not to mention
missing the reason for the season in December. The best way to get ahead and stay
ahead is to follow these words of the apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In
everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Mary Ann Eades, Stephanie Engledowl, Agatha
Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway, Kay George, The Hale Family, Chester Head, Belinda & Herb Martin,
Gloria Renfroe, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz
Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Patti Vance, Duke Walker, Donna Weatherly, Harley West,
Unspoken requests, Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National Leaders
and The USA.

Our Prayer Dear Lord, it
seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all powerful
God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-
kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different
illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday 
October 23 Doug Scroggs 

Happy Anniversary

October 12 Bro. Bill and Reta Scroggs

**************************************************************************

WHO DID IT?
I Know many people who are GIVERS.  That is, they get JOY by
performing the little projects that make a difference for people
like me to enjoy. 
I love driving into the new parking lot and thinking how many skills you must have to oversee
Such an undertaking for the CHURCH.  Instantly I focus on the grounds and see how
Perfectly they are kept and all the weed eating, and bush trimming  I think they are of the
JONES clan.   I even saw someone weeding the flower bed!   I know she doesn’t feel well, but
her JOY is the flowers and my ungreen talent praises God for her.
There are other secret givers to  caring for the plants and  their expertise is so appreciatedd
WHO took on  changing the Altar flower arrangements and the banners that remind us of our 
 purpose as the seasons change?
WHO takes the money offerings to the bank?  WHO takes out  the trash for pick up?   Who
keeps track of flag protocol?  I SALUTE YOU!!
What about the beautiful informative bulletins that keep us on the right track?  And Who
Keeps up with the official business of Petit Jean First Baptist Church?   Did you see who took
the donated groceries to the Oppelo Food Bank?
Who passes out those beautiful bulletins?  It is her JOB and she is dedicated to the cause!
WHO sends those encouraging cards to give us a boost when we are facing trials, surgery,
Or so many other events in our lives?   Nothing like bringing a smile during difficult times!’ 
Have you got your new Church Directory?  So much time and effort  on keeping us  lined up
For pictures, and making sure you give the right information.   A collective effort of ???
WHO DID THAT?
Do you know who fixed the Leaking Baptistry and  the Leaking commode?  Who is in charge of
LEAKS around here?  WHO?  Did you meet the heating and cooling man to let him in for
maintenance?
And, that new mailbox, very shiny!
Did you say Breakfast?  Who provides a cooked breakfast not only for the congregants, but
The whole community?  Sunday morning Coffee?  Those life changing desserts, Who made
That?   Don’t Forget the GRITS!
Hats off to YOU ALL!  
No one can do ALL these things, but collectively as a Church Family we work and grow
Together!  God directs us to give of ourselves  to his Glory!  NOW I am sure I have missed 
A few folks so volume two will catch you doing your thing for the Glory of God!  
It’s the family!  That’s WHO!

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

September, 2022

The Last Third

There are only four months left in 2022 or do you say, “There are four months left in 2022!” Too many times we become a glass half empty person instead of being grateful for what we have in our cup.  We still have the whole season left in our football year. We still have three very important holidays (Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day) left in the months ahead.

We are blessed to already have reached our goal for The Dixie Jackson State Missions Offering and look forward to our Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions.

However, before we jump too far ahead, we need to remember this year’s Dixie Jackson slogan, “While It Is Still Light,” based on the verse John 9:4 that says, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”

I/We must recognize the truth of these words of Jesus in John 4:35, “Say not ye, There are four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

No matter how much is left we must work while it is light.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  We Lift Up In Prayer 

 Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Mary Ann Eades, Stephanie Engledowl,   Agatha Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway, Kay George, The Hale Family, Chester Head, Belinda & Herb Martin, Gloria Renfroe, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Jay Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Patti Vance, Duke Walker, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, Unspoken Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National Leaders and The USA.

Our Prayer                                        

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday                               

September 11,  Barbara Scott                               

September 22,  Bubba Vance

Happy Anniversary

  September 5, Bill & Ann Vance

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

August, 2022                                                                                                                                          

Oh Boy! Back To School!

I know we have seen some nice hot weather and as August approaches we have some things to which we look forward. Bands start rehearsing and football practices begin even in the hottest of weather.  And we all know what that brings, back to school sales and then school begins. Some students have been looking forward to the new school year while others have dreaded the very thought ever since the vacation began.

Some youngsters miss it so much they are even playing school with their siblings and or their dolls and stuffed animals. While this may look like play, GOD may be working in the hearts of some of these children to call them to be teachers.   By the same token HE may be calling some who are playing with their dolls and stuffed animals to be nurses, doctors, veterinarians and some are learning how to become a nurturing Mom or Dad.

The more seasoned we become the more we know learning starts earlier (in the womb) than most people think and lasts long after we graduate from school.  Since we know school never ends we must remember these words from James 1:5, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of GOD, that giveth to all men liberally, and up braideth not; and it shall be given him.” Oh, Boy! Back to school! I know I must ask daily.  

 Bro. Bill Scroggs

We Lift Up in Prayer

Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Mary Ann Eades, Agatha Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway, Kay George, Chester Head, Gloria Renfroe, Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Jay Scroggs, Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Patti Vance, Duke Walker, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, Unspoken Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National Leaders and The USA.

                                                                           Our Prayer                                         Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday                               

August 1  Ariel Morgan                                                                       

August 1  Easton Morgan                                                                   

August 3  Jeffrey Curtis

August 6  Beau Steinmetz

August 10  Coe Wilson

August 11 Karen Long

August 25  Bill Wilson

August 30  Nolen Owen                                                             

Happy Anniversary     

August 6  Bubba & Patti Vance

August 22  Jerry & Helen Charton

Honoring Wayne Adams     Army Veteran  1964-1967

By the Conway County Piecemakers

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

July, 2022                                                                                                                                       

The Blessing of Freedom

Contrary to popular beliefs (of today) our country was formed using Christian principals. Many of our ancestors came to America for the freedom to worship as they pleased. GOD blessed America over and over again during the infant stages of our history and throughout the growth and maturity of our nation.  As our nation evolved from a fledgling pioneer country to a world power and as we became more affluent, we changed from “eating our bread by the sweat of our brow” (Genesis 3:19), to seeing how few hours we can work to enjoy leisure and recreation.

The wise writer of Psalm reminds us, “Blessed is the nation whose GOD is The LORD, The people HE has chosen as HIS own inheritance.” In our rush for leisure we have become a nation who has left off seeking GOD. With our freedoms many are seeking no god instead of loving and worshipping GOD. We have gone from being a righteous nation to being a more wicked nation. Proverbs 14:34 reminds us, “Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.”

Our blessings have become a curse to our nation. We must follow 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”  May we choose to seek GOD so HE can bless America  again.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Bro. Bill Scroggs                                                                                                                                

We Lift Up In Prayer                                                                            

Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Mary Ann Eades,   Agatha Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway, Kay George, Chester Head,  Henry Jones  Mari Pruitt, Gloria Renfroe,  Barbara Scott, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Jay Scroggs, Jane Ellen Shirley,  Loren Silva, Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley,  Billy Vance,  Patti Vance,  Duke Walker, Donna Weatherly, Harley West, The Family of Ernestine McCabe, Unspoken requests,   Missionaries,  Military & Law Enforcement,  State and National Leaders and The  USA.  

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus’ precious name we pray. Amen.

    Birthdays                                 

     July 17      Wayne Adams

     July  21     Clayton Jones

      July  23     Danielle Morgan

       July  30     Cylinda Curtis

Changes Coming To FBCPJ

 Our newly expanded parking lot is still under construction.  Weather conditions in early June caused a delay in progress.  We will continue to look forward to it’s completion.  The other projects being considered at this time are a new and updated sound system and an electronic sign to be placed in front of the church to announce special events. 

The Heart of Happiness

We often witness the good things that happen to us as causing us to be “light-hearted”. When we’re light-hearted, we’re happy and we see the world in a totally different perspective than when we’re blue.  If you think about it, it’s not the world that changes so much it’s our thinking.

The things that bring you sustainable joy become your treasures, they become a moment in time that you long to return to over and over again.  They are the experiences that help you believe in God’s plans for the greater good in your life.  Your thoughts help to generate the atmosphere of possibilities and cause you to bow your head in prayer.

Treasure the things that bring you great joy today and give God the glory for the pleasures and the treasures  He has put before you.  He is faithful to you wherever you are, whatever you might think.

Lord, help me see the good things you have provided for my happiness today.   Amen

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean
“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

June 2022

JUNE?
Wow! It is hard to believe we are two years away from being locked down by COVID19. Every
few days, weeks or months, it seems like we are closer to getting back to normal, then a new
challenge pops up and we are not even sure what that looks like anymore. Sometimes it even
seems that someone or something does not want things to run on an even keel.
Since the pandemic we have had marriages and even a new Great-granddaughter approaching
her ‘two’s’ and the opportunities that will bring. Looking back fifty years ago in the month of
May I met Reta and life has never been ‘normal’ again, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The month of June is the official start of Reta’s retirement. When the new year came and we
were making plans for this, June seemed a long way off. Like the past fifty years, time flew
while we were having fun. Every section of our lives can be divided into ‘seasons’ that GOD has
brought us to and will bring us through. The apostle Paul in Romans 8:28 reminds us that, “we
know all things work together for good to those who love GOD and are called according to HIS
purpose.” One thing we can be sure of is that December also will be here probably before we
know it.
Bro. Bill Scroggs

We Lift Up In Prayer
Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Amanda Falls, Agatha Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway,
Kay George, Chester Head, Lawrence and JD Henley, E.Kaye Jones, Mary Pruitt, Gloria Renfroe,
Kenneth & Ellen Robertson, Jeanie Scroggs, Bro. Bill and Reta Scroggs, Jay Scroggs, Loren Silva,
Smiley Family, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley, Billy Vance, Patti Vance, Harley West,
Unspoken requests, Missionaries, Military & Law Enforcement, State and National Leaders
and The USA.

Our Prayer
Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow. We know You are a big and all
powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs. Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and
loving-kindness. Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different

illnesses and problems. We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them. In Jesus’ precious name
we pray, Amen

Happy Birthday!
June 10 Anna Cody 
June 18 Wanda Owen 
June 20 Bro. Bill Scroggs 
June 21 Linda Jones
June 29 Sharon Steinmetz

Happy Anniversary

June 11 Nolen & Wanda Owen

June 21 Bill & Coe Wilson

June 26 Doug & Jeanie Scroggs

Changes Coming To FBCPJ

As you arrived at church yesterday or today, you must have noticed the beginning of
our new expanded parking lot. This space will provide us with more than twice the
space we currently have. A new drive will also provide you with a way to exit the
parking lot without passing right next to the crowded side door. It is all going to be nice
and a step forward for our church.

Our Congratulations To Reta

Thanks to the encouragement of many of our educators at First Baptist Church Petit Jean,
Reta is hanging up her whistle and lanyard. Even this week she has ‘temporarily’ lost her
keys.
Her career began actually in 1972 when she met and tried to teach me. While she wanted to
become a teacher following into the footsteps of an Aunt and Uncle that she admired, she
became distracted because of finances going to Business College. After our girls were born
Reta raised them as well as a gaggle of neighborhood and church kids. She taught Suday
School and Mission classes as well as Children’s Choir at church and community Children’s
Choir.
Her work with the Community choir led to her first long term substitute position which
opened other opportunities. Another long term choir substitution opened the door for Reta
to go into child-care for the choir teacher as well as Courtney. The choir teacher had
another child and another on the way and I encouraged Reta to take a Pre-K position at
Southside Batesville so she could get a break sometimes.
When we moved to Conway Reta started working at the Head-start Program and as time
went on she was able to get a position with the Conway ABC Pre-K program in 2006. She
has enjoyed her career impacting not only 3–5-year old’s, but the parents and new teachers
and other educators that have come across her path.
 Reta has a couple of books she has written and will be working on getting them published.
She will surely miss the students, but will still have her hands full working on the first
project she started… Me.

Bro. Bill Scroggs

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

May, 2022

You Might Need An Umbrella

For the past two months you could almost rubber stamp that prediction. You also could add to that several days, a jacket could be handy. Now moving into May, guess what? Rain is forecasted for at least six of the next seven days. If the March and April showers are any indication of our May flowers this ought to be a bumper year. Fortunately, the temperatures have warmed up and we can only hope for a few weeks of nice weather before our summer scorchers settle in.

All of the storms on our horizon can’t be fended off with boots, slickers and umbrellas. We are entering the primary season of our politics and there is so much hot air being expended it could lead to a long dry spell. There is so much lying, confusion, deceit, sin and downright orneriness, we had better get prepared.

The answer to our current situation is found in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land.”

God help us to listen and become obedient to YOU.

Bro. Bill Scroggs

CHURCH  DIRECTORY

For the next few Sundays Doug Scroggs will be making or remaking pictures for a new Church Directory.  If you prefer, your picture in the current directory can be used again.  We request that each family (members, and frequent guests) have a picture in the new directory.  We consider all of you a part of our church family.  Pictures will be made in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings from 9 to 9:30 and after church.  If this time frame does not work for you, other arrangements can be made.  See Doug.                      

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

April, 2022

 Showers of Blessing

April showers bring May flowers… however our March showers have helped to bring our April flowers and we are grateful for the blessings we have.  While there is plenty to be discouraged and down about, we can all still find plenty to praise GOD and rejoice for. We are two years past the closing down of churches due to the COVID19 virus and even now there is much confusion about what happened and what is going on.

Looking back, we can see the faithfulness of GOD and the obedience of HIS children in HIS church here on the mountain. GOD has never allowed HIS church here to have want. In fact, HE has blessed us here at First Baptist Church Petit Jean to not only be taken care of, but also to bless others that had needs that came to our attention as well as blessing others through our three mission’s offerings, (Annie Armstrong, Dixie Jackson and Lottie Moon.)

The writer of Ezekiel 34:26 says, “I will make them and the places around My hill a blessing. And I will cause showers to come down in their season; they will be showers of blessing.”  Yes, there have been showers of blessings.

 Bro. Bill Scroggs                                                                   

We Lift Up In Prayer

Phyllis Adams, Wayne Adams, Barry Carter, Rettie Jean Cody, Amanda Falls, Agatha Gasaway, Gwyn Gasaway, Chester Head, E.Kaye Jones, Tommy Merrit.   Addison Payne,  Mary Pruitt, Gloria Renfroe,  Jeanie Scroggs, Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Loren Silva, Steinmetz Family, Lillian Tousley,  Patti Vance, Marvin VanEchaute, Harley West,  Unspoken requests,  Children around the world, Missionaries,  Military & Law Enforcement,  State and National Leaders and The  USA.  

Our Prayer

Dear Lord, it seems like our prayer concerns continue to grow and grow.  We know You are a big and all powerful God, and that You can meet each of these needs.  Thank you, Lord, for Your mercy, grace, and loving-kindness.  Please be with each of these, our friends and family, as they struggle with their different illnesses and problems.  We ask an extra measure of blessing for each of them.  In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen.

Happy Birthday!

April 7, Agatha Gasaway

April 8,  Jeanie Scroggs

April 9,  Ken Andrews

April 20  Annie Rozivka

April 21  Daniel Weatherly

April 25  Darla Criddle

Happy Anniversary!

April 6  Ken & June Andrews

April 16  Bob & Anna Cody

EASTER  POTLUCK  LUNCH

On Easter Sunday, April 17^th, we will have a potluck lunch in our Fellowship Hall.  Everyone is invited to stay and enjoy the food and fellowship.  There is a sign-up sheet on the piano by the south exit. 

Annie Walker Armstrong

July 11, 1850 – December 20, 1938

Annie Armstrong was a lay southern Baptist denominational leader instrumental in the founding of the Woman’s Missionary Union.  In 1934, WMU recognized her lifetime of work by naming the annual Easter offering for home missions in her honor.  Thus, the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering was born with every dollar going to support missions work throughout the U.S. and Canada.

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

March 2022

Pray, Pray, Pray

As we finish Ann Vance’s Birthday month, we watch her and her sister by another mother EK, each welcome a great grand to compound next year’s celebration.  We had two ice, snow, sleet and freezing rain events. The month ended with Russia attacking the Ukraine and shook up the world as if our country needed one more thing in addition to inflation and other uncertainties.

Our friend, Phil Chapman, joined the heavenly chorus on Wednesday the 23^rd. Each of us probably has at least one favorite “Phil story” and most likely half involve him being a challenge to Miss Linda.  I loved singing in the choir with Phil. At one time he was 50% of the men’s section. When we got to playing too big Miss Linda would look at us with her ‘School Marm’ look and Phil would peer over his glasses and say, “I love you, Linda!”  That would melt her heart but, he knew he had better straighten up (at least for a minute.) We didn’t need to lose another good man, but we were blessed to know him. Thank you, Miss Linda, for sharing Phil with us.

Pray for Wayne as he continues to wait, to wait, to wait…  Pray for these new babies brought into the world for a time such as this. Pray for those dealing with the ice and the effects of it. Pray for the citizens of Ukraine and the world as this moment of confusion is all around us. Pray for Miss Linda and their family and friends during this time of loss.

Remember to pray as Jesus did in Matthew 6:10, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Wouldn’t that be terrific?

Bro. Bill Scroggs

Visionary Meeting

February 20, 2022

 A Visionary Meeting of First Baptist Church of Petit Jean was held at 5 o’clock on February 20 , 2022.  This was a follow-up of the January 23, 2022 meeting. The following 19 members were present:  Bro. Bill & Reta Scroggs, Bob & Anna Cody, Nolen & Wanda Owen, Jeanie Scroggs, E.Kaye Jones, Ann Vance, Clayton & Linda Jones, Bill & Coe Wilson, Gwyn, Greg, & Agatha Gasaway, Shawana & Daniel Weatherly and Bubba Vance.  The meeting was opened with prayer worded by Nolen Owen.   

Bro. Bill went over and explained the items on the list with little or no discussion.  The group settled on three topics for consideration at this time.  Improving the sound system was a high priority for a large number of people.  Daniel Weatherly will work on this project to include modern technology in all areas including help for the hearing impaired.  He will call on a professional to evaluate our facility for better sound quality and have the proper equipment installed.  This project may include audio and visual set up in the fellowship hall and classrooms.

Interest was shown in the topic for an electronic sign to be installed in front of the church.  Anna Cody will lead this project with several volunteering to help her. 

The third project for consideration is to increase our parking space.  Bro. Bill asked the men “to put their heads together” to come up with a workable plan.  This would include land West of the existing parking lot or land North of our church building.  If this requires the parsonage to be moved, make a decision on where.

The meeting ended with the reading of a Bible verse by Bro. Bill and prayer. 

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

February 2022

How Do You…

How do you celebrate life?  Life is not just celebrated by the years you have lived, but by the life you have put into your years.  Ann Vance likes to begin her celebration on the first day of her birthday month, if possible, a few days early.  She crams more life into a day than many folks put in a week or month.  Since her birth date is the first, she gets a head start.  

My mother was born on Ground Hog Day and as we would ask her if she had seen her shadow, she would always say, “I didn’t look”.  Mom loved life and was grateful for the five years GOD gave her after she found out she had liver cancer.  The writer of Psalm 90:10 tells us, “The days of our years are threescore and ten, and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years.”  In her last few months, she expressed how she had a good life and was glad to celebrate her 81^st birthday.  We even laughed about it being her “Mighty First” birthday. 

Now Dad who will be 91 on the 13^th of February will be commemorating the day by trying to figure out how we can get the garden tilled so we can get certain crops in the ground.  I think the key in life is to enjoy each day in our own way, celebrating and rejoicing in each day.  “Let everything that hath breathe rejoice praise the LORD.  Praise the LORD. (Psalm 150:6)                                                                                                                                               

Bro. Bill Scroggs

First Baptist Church of Petit Jean

“Come to the Mountain for His Word”

January 2022

Where Does This Road Go?

The other day I was turning onto a familiar road and instead of the normal sign, it said ‘555.’ Now as I have been on 67 and 167, I am afraid one day when giving directions I might use one of the previous designations to the same place and some folks might think I have lost my mind.  The truth is when asked where does highway 555 go I could correctly respond the same place highway 67 did.  

As we look down the highway of 2022 there is a lot of uncertainty that we will be facing.  However, no matter how many twists and turns we find we can be sure GOD has our best interests at heart.  Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares The LORD. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and future.”

Whatever direction this year takes us, we can be assured that we are not alone.

 Bro. Bill Scroggs

What is Faith?

Faith is one of those words that is commonly used but not always understood. Some of that confusion comes from the many different ways the word faith is used in everyday conversation; a quick look at Dictionary.com shows seven different uses! One common way that people use the word faith is to refer to belief in something despite lacking any evidence for it. But is that what the Bible means by faith? The answer is a resounding no! So, when the Bible uses the word faith, what does it mean?

The closest that the Bible comes to offering an exact definition is Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” From this particular passage, we see that the central feature of faith—confidence or trust. In the Bible, the object of faith is God and his promises. A clear example of this is Abram’s encounter with God in Genesis 15. In response to God’s promise of countless descendants, Abram “believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness” (Gen 15:6). Commenting on this, the Apostle Paul writes, “No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised” (Romans 4:20-21). Thus, faith means putting your trust in God and having confidence that he will fulfill his promises.