Prayers of the People - Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

A Time for Every Season
What’s your favorite season of the year? Are you renewed by the blooming buds of spring? excited by the
vacation times of summer? enriched by the changing colors of fall? recharged by the refreshing winds of winter?
Yes, each season offers its own rewards. But which season is your favorite?
As you journey through these pages, you will encounter different “seasons.” These are also exciting and
enriching.
As you enter the season of dreaming, tell God your hopes and dreams. Pray for the names on these
pages and ask God to bring their dreams to reality as well. Ask God for clarity of vision and intentionality of
mission. Dream great dreams; pray boldly.
As you enter the second season of becoming, pray that God will give you opportunities to be formed
more deeply. Pray that God will help you and the folks mentioned in this guide grow and mature to become
even more the presence of Christ in the world. Ask God for the courage to prepare spiritually for some of what
may have come from your season of dreaming. Be formed more deeply in God; pray boldly.
During the final season of being, pray that God will give you and all mentioned in this prayer guide
the energy to live out your dreams. Pray that we have been formed deeply enough to be bold enough to make
dreams come into reality. In this season, pray that all of us will engage God’s Spirit for God’s kingdom, on Earth
as it is in heaven. Attempt great things for God; pray boldly!
Pray faithfully and consistently in each of these prayer seasons and calendar seasons!
Bo Prosser
Coordinator of Missional Congregations
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Introduction
The Seasons of Our Lives
“Praying through the Christian year offers us the opportunity to embrace God’s dream,
to connect intimately with God in spiritual practices that shape and form us
and to act in compassionate ministries that transform our world.”
God had a dream and acted on that dream with
amazing creativity and love. With the rhythm
of evening and morning in place, God placed
plants and animals in a beautiful garden, to be
cared for by God’s ultimate creation: man and
woman, created in God’s own image. Walking
in that garden with God must have been a
delightful experience with all nature living in
harmonious relationship with God.
But life in this wholesome setting was
not to be. Disobedience brought an end to
paradise. Darkness, pain, and evil took over the
garden.
Nevertheless, God has pursued a
relationship with humanity and has had
the highest aspirations for all of creation.
In redreaming the dream, God sent Jesus,
God’s own Son, as a means of forgiveness
and reconciliation. God’s dream lives on as
we accept God’s love, follow Jesus, and share
God’s love with the world around us. We
become part of God’s good news.
From the beginning, as God set the sun
and moon in the sky, the world has moved in
a rhythm marked by days and nights, seasons
and years. While our busy lives are often ruled
by calendars and clocks, as followers of Jesus
Christ, our lives are also guided by the seasons
of the Christian year.
Even as January 1 marks the beginning
of the calendar year, the season of Advent is the
beginning of the Christian year as we anticipate
the celebration of Christ’s birth. Christmas
Day is followed by Epiphany, Lent, Easter,
Pentecost, and the season of “ordinary” time or
Kingdomtide.
Praying through the Christian year offers
us the opportunity to embrace God’s dream,
to connect intimately with God in spiritual
practices that shape and form us and to act in
compassionate ministries that transform our
world. Over the next 12 months, this guide will
encourage us to pay attention to the rhythms of
our lives: the days and months of the calendar
year, the seasons of the Christian year, and
the seasons of our spiritual lives that allow us
to embrace God’s dream, grow closer to God
through spiritual practices, and share God’s
love with those around us.
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Prayers of the People
Using the Guide
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Prayers of the People is a yearlong guide to prayer.
We invite you into the heart of God and into the
hearts of those servants seeking to follow God
through real and practical ministries. As you pray,
you are not alone, for you join in the community of
Fellowship Baptists seeking God’s guidance for their
lives, their churches, their communities, and the
world.
Personal Prayer
Spend time daily praying through the suggested
exercises highlighted at the beginning of each
month. Read and reflect on the weekly Scripture
text and seek to connect its meaning to the prayer
request that follows. Gaze at the photographs,
paying attention to facial expressions, physical
environments, and other details. Allow the photos
to capture your attention and inform your prayers.
Ask God how you might be inspired by the featured
ministries.
Small Group Prayer
Use Prayers of the People in mission groups, in
Sunday School classes, in prayer groups, and
in committee or team meetings. In stillness and
silence, invite group members to become aware of
the Spirit of God in their midst. Begin by reading
the Scripture listed each week. Allow for a moment
of silence before reading the prayer request. Call
participants to a time of prayer. This may be done
in a variety of ways, with a single person voicing a
prayer, with several people responding, or by simply
allowing each person to pray silently.
Family Prayer
Families will enjoy using Prayers of the People at
mealtimes, at bedtime, or during a weekly family
worship time. Begin with a parent or older child
reading the Scripture each week. Spend time asking
curious questions about the photograph. Wonder
about the depicted scene. Then have another family
member read the prayer request or use the content
to invite conversation. Finally, close by voicing a
prayer. If a Web address is listed, consider exploring
the ministry or situation further as a family.
Worship
Create a “Mission Moment” once a month in
corporate worship. Share the story of a church
starter, field personnel, or chaplain/pastoral
counselor highlighted in the prayer guide and voice
a prayer. Or consider using the content to shape a
children’s sermon or a prayer station.
Children’s Missions Classes
One week of each month of Prayers of the People
features a ministry that is also included in CBF’s
missional formation resources for preschoolers
and children, Form and Spark. Missions teachers
will enjoy sharing the pictures and prayer requests
in their classrooms and making connections with
the lessons. Share copies of Prayers of the People
with parents and families of children to encourage
follow-up after the lesson. For more information,
visit www.thefellowship.info/missionseducation.
On Your E-reader
Visit www.thefellowship.info/Missions/Pray/Prayersof-the-People-ereader
to get a copy of Prayers of the
People for your Kindle, Nook, or other e-readers.
More Prayer Resources
To receive more detailed and current prayer requests
from CBF field personnel, visit www.thefellowship.
info/pray. Subscribe to Prayer Associates to receive
monthly print or e-updates. Download copies to
share with others.
To Order More
Contact The CBF Store at www.cbfstore.info or
770.220.1660 to order more copies of Prayers of
the People. Include in welcome packets to church
visitors and display on magazine racks.
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September–December: Dreaming
“May you be made strong with all the
strength that comes from his glorious
power, and may you be prepared to endure
everything with patience, while joyfully
giving thanks to the Father, who has
enabled you to share in the inheritance of
the saints in the light. He has rescued us
from the power of darkness and transferred
us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, in
whom we have redemption, the forgiveness
of sins.”
—Colossians 1:11–13
As God’s people, we are called to follow Jesus and
to redream God’s dream. We try to imagine the
world as God sees it, a world in which all creation is
in tune with God’s love. Jesus came, as God’s Son,
to demonstrate that love through his humble birth,
his life of compassionate service, his cruel death
on a cross, and his glorious resurrection. He carried
forth God’s dream and fulfilled God’s purpose: to
reconcile humanity to God’s own self and to teach
his followers how to live so that we might continue
God’s dream.
We seek to be all that God created us to be
as individuals—loved by God, gifted for building
up the kingdom of God, and called to acts of
compassion, justice, and peace. We seek to develop
communities of faith for God’s purposes—learning
and growing together, worshipping, and witnessing
God’s love.
During these months we experience renewed
energy and commitment with new beginnings.
We are reminded of God’s dream as we remember
those who have nurtured our faith. We count
our blessings and give thanks. We anticipate and
celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, bringing
gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love.
September: Hope
“But those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.”
—Isaiah 40:31 NIV
September brings “back to school” preparations and memories. Whether preparing children for their first school
experience or the next grade, sending a high school graduate off to college, or simply remembering our own
school days, September brings an air of excitement and hopeful anticipation. Preparations for new beginnings
and new experiences fill the air.
Anticipation is woven through the unfolding story of God’s people. The Israelites hoped for deliverance
in spite of bondage, abuse by enemies, wilderness wanderings, exile, occasional lapses into disobedience, and
periods of discontent and apathy. They longed for God’s dynamic presence and called on God for strength to
endure when hope faded. While they sometimes lost sight of God’s dream for redemption, God’s steadfast love
and vision for reconciliation prevailed.
Sometimes we have experiences similar to those of the Israelites—pain, suffering, wandering,
disobedience, discontent, and apathy. It seems that God’s dream for the world is illusive. We, too, hope for
deliverance and a fresh start. We long for God’s abiding presence that gives us strength to walk, to run, and
sometimes to soar like eagles.
This month reflect on the new beginnings in your life. Pray, with gratitude, for the hope you have in
Christ Jesus. Thank God for God’s love and faithfulness. Ask God for renewed energy for your spiritual journey.
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September 1–8 September 9–15
“But those who look into the
perfect law, the law of liberty, and
persevere, being not hearers who
forget but doers who act—they will
be blessed in their doing.”
—James 1:25
“Happy are those whose help is the
God of Jacob, whose hope is in the
LORD their God, who made heaven
and earth, the sea, and all that is in
them; who keeps faith forever.”
—Psalm 146:5–6
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Student.Go provides opportunities for university students to go “beyond their culture, beyond their comfort zone,
and beyond themselves” as they serve alongside CBF field personnel and partners all over the world. The ministries
in locations such as Miami, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Uganda, China, and Romania allow students to
experience how God has uniquely gifted them for service. Pray for students serving this fall that they will be fully
present in each moment and that they can both be the presence of Christ and see Christ in those among whom they
serve. Pray also for students who have finished a summer of service as they process their experience and how God
will use that experience to shape them for the future. Visit www.studentdotgo.org to learn more.
Crossroads Community Church (CCC) is a three-and-a-half-year-old church start located in the Interstate 64 corridor
between Charlottesville and Richmond, Virginia. The church began as a small Bible study group led by Bruce and
Susan Hunter. After studying and worshipping in homes for eight months, Crossroads leased the CCC Worship
and Mission Center with a vision for helping people on their journey back to God and has grown into a diverse
congregation of 70 active participants. The church endeavors to make the love of God visible through ongoing
community service in three bordering counties. Pray that the congregation stays attuned to the Spirit’s leadership
and focused on God’s vision. Pray that persons might respond to the invitation to become a part of God’s kingdom
and mission. Visit www.ccc4mission.org to learn more.
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September 16–22 September 23–30
“The snares of death encompassed
me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on
me; I suffered distress and anguish.
Then I called on the name of the
LORD: ‘O LORD, I pray, save my
life!’ Gracious is the LORD, and
righteous; our God is merciful.”
—Psalm 116:3–5
“Who is wise and understanding
among you? Show by your good
life that your works are done with
gentleness born of wisdom.”
—James 3:13
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CBF-endorsed chaplain Kim Sheehan serves at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, where she ministers among
patients, families, and hospital staff. Rooted in the loving ministry of Jesus as healer, Baptist Hospital is committed to
serving all persons, especially the poor and vulnerable. The hospital is a 683-bed facility with the busiest emergency
room in town and medical, coronary, neurosurgical, and neonatal intensive care units, where more than 14,000
surgeries are performed annually. Sheehan’s ministry reaches out to patients at both the beginning and the end of
life. Each year 7,000 babies take their first breath at Baptist Hospital and 450 patients take their last. Pray for the sick
children, their families, those in intensive care, those facing surgery, and those facing the loss of a loved one. Pray
also for the staff as they provide care to the sick and live out the values of service and dedication.
Transitions are always difficult and fraught with opportunities for failure, but the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s
history has always been ripe with the chance for growth. As CBF enters a transitional period in which the arc of the
past will be interrupted by change, we say good-bye to Executive Coordinator Daniel Vestal and prepare to receive
CBF’s next leader and reorganize the structure of the Fellowship. Pray for these transitions and what they mean.
Ask God to guide CBF churches, field personnel, staff, and all other partners in these days where every decision is
important. Pray that God will grant wisdom and guidance to the Executive Coordinator Search Committee, members
of the Coordinating Council, and all officers who work alongside the CBF staff.
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September Birthdays
Month October: Title Peace
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1 Terry Eddinger, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
1 Milton Snyder, Milledgeville, GA (CH)
1 Dan Stallard, Woodbridge, VA (CH)
1 Ralph Stocks, Romania (FP)
2 Bob Coons, Owensboro, KY (PLT)
2 Ruth Cuellar, Newnan, GA (PLT)
2 Dennis McDuffie, Atoka, TN (CH)
2 Sara Moran, Greer, SC (CH)
3 Jenny Jenkins, Haiti (FP)
3 Ann Owen, Viera, FL (CH)
4 Monique Criddell, Waco, TX (CH)
4 Vicki Lumpkin, Greensboro, NC (CH)
4 Shirley Massey, Chapel Hill, NC (CH)
5 Eddie Aldape, India (FP)
5 Kelly Belcher, Spartanburg, SC (CH)
5 Becky Brannon, Gainesville, GA (CH)
5 David Brown, France (FP)
5 David D’Amico, Emeritus (FP)
5 David Julian, Dublin, GA (CH)
6 Carla Cherry, Dublin, OH (CH)
7 Martha Harper, Madison, MS (CH)
7 Lee Hendricks, Greenville, NC (CH)
7 Lita Sample, San Francisco, CA (FP)
8 Kirk Hall, Pineville, KY (CH)
8 Trey Lyon, Atlanta, GA (FP)
9 Jutta Cowie, Haiti (FP)
10 Timothy Brown, Dublin, GA (CH)
10 Nancy Campbell, Hickory, NC (CH)
10 Keegan, 2009, Los Angeles, CA (FPC)
12 Bryan Lake, Cumming, GA (CH)
13 Andrew Gee, Marietta, GA (PC)
13 Alan Redditt, Georgetown, KY (CH)
13 Richard Morris, Lebanon, PA (CH)
13 Scot McCosh, Hope Mills, NC (CH)
14 Bart Grooms, Birmingham, AL (PC)
14 Priscilla Howick, Jacksonville, FL (CH)
14 Stephanie Moore, Maryville, TN (CH)
15 Rebecca Holmes, 1992, Europe (FPC)
15 Brandy Mullins, Manvel, TX (CH)
16 Dick Allison, Hattiesburg, MS (CH)
16 Christopher Harrell, 1993, Kenya (FPC)
16 Karen Heistand, Charlottesville, VA (CH)
16 Byron Johnson, Twenty-nine Palms, CA (CH)
16 Charles Leggett, Lawton, OK (CH)
17 Angela Clark, Matthews, NC (CH)
17 Jean Craddock, Lexington, KY (PC)
17 George Rossi, Columbia, SC (CH)
18 Susan Barnett, Green Valley, AZ (CH)
19 , daughter, North Africa (FPC)
19 Wanda Ashworth Valencia, Homestead, FL (FP)
19 Larry Baker, Commerce City, CO (CH)
19 Josiah Maas, 2007, Belize (FPC)
20 David Bluford, Lenoir City, TN (CH)
20 Renée Owen, Marietta, GA (CH)
20 Tanya Parks, Slovakia (FP)
20 Kenneth Walker, Frankfort, KY (PC)
21 Laura Bridges, 1992, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
21 Mark Flores, Lynchburg, VA (CH)
21 Phil Owens, Marietta, GA (CH)
22 Kim Chafee, Virginia Beach, VA (CH)
22 Josh Reglin, Tahoka, TX (CH)
22 John Robbins, Maiden, NC (CH)
22 Becky Shoaf, Atlanta, GA (CH)
23 Donna Seay, Bryson City, NC (CH)
24 William Stewart, Yukosuka Naval Base, Japan (CH)
25 Gabe Orea, China (FP)
25 Angel Pittman, Miami, FL (FP)
26 Randy Brookshire, Greenville, SC (CH)
26 Sunny Mitchell, Milwaukee, WI (CH)
26 Keith Parker, Brevard, NC (PC)
26 Beth Sexton, Lincolnton, KY (CH)
26 Lynwood Walters, Gainesville, FL (CH)
26 Gloria White, Pearland, TX (PC)
27 Cathy Anderson, Kennesaw, GA (CH)
27 Currian Cole, 2002, Spain (FPC)
27 Peggy Johnson, Hurst, TX (CH)
28 Renate Kruklis, Braselton, GA (CH)
29 John Harris, Pelham, AL (PC)
30 Paul Douglas, Ft. Belvoir, VA (CH)
30 Rebecca Wyatt, 1992, Canada (FPC)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the
throne of David and his kingdom.”
—Isaiah 9:6–7
God envisioned a world of peace for all of creation. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God and were banished
from the garden of Eden, God set about redreaming the dream. God raised up leaders and prophets to prepare
God’s people for a Messiah who would bring about a kingdom of peace. The prophet Isaiah described this
kingdom in terms of the natural world: “The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the
kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them” (Isa. 11:6).
Earthly kings and kingdoms could not fulfill God’s vision of peace. God sent Jesus, Prince of peace, as a
new kind of king for a new kind of kingdom.
Peace is more than the absence of war or conflict. Peace exists only when there is forgiveness,
reconciliation, love, justice. Imagine God’s dream: all nature thriving in harmony and beauty; nations at peace
within their own borders and with other nations; communities working together in unity of purpose, caring for
one another and working for justice for all; congregations worthy of being called “the body of Christ”; families
founded on love and mutual respect; individuals at peace with themselves, with God, with one another, and
with all creation.
As you pray this month, ask God for peace in your own life, and then ask God to reveal where you can be
a peacemaker—offering forgiveness, reconciliation, love, and justice.
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October 1–8 October 9–15
“I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O
LORD, singing aloud a song of
thanksgiving, and telling all your
wondrous deeds.”
—Psalm 26:6–7
“Let your work be manifest to your
servants, and your glorious power
to their children. Let the favor of
the Lord our God be upon us, and
prosper for us the work of our
hands—O prosper the work of our
hands!”
—Psalm 90:16–17
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People from Serbia, the Czech and Slovak Republics, Bali, the United States, Germany, India, and New Zealand come
to Bali, diverse in culture and faith, to study the arts or build a life. Many come seeking a spiritual connection on
the fabled island, but after a while, they look for community. CBF field personnel Jonathan and Tina Bailey minister
through the arts to people of all faith, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds living in Bali. Whether through music,
painting, dance, exhibitions, or concerts, art brings people together and offers them the space to build community
across religious, ethnic, and personal boundaries. Residents form relationships and meet one another’s physical and
spiritual needs. They share spiritual journeys where Christ is found. Pray that residents of Bali will find their life in
the God of grace, love, and peace. Learn more at www.thefellowship.info/jonathantina.
No page at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, gets CBF-endorsed chaplain Reagan White’s
heart racing faster than an emergency alert. In the emergency room many families face the worst day of their lives
as medical personnel fight to save their loved ones. Parents stand thunderstruck as they watch doctors working
feverishly to pull their child back from the brink of death. In these moments, when strands of hope begin to fade,
many families cry out for answers or understanding. Where no suitable answer exists, White and other chaplains
offer assurances of God’s continuing love. Pray for God’s continued work in often-desperate circumstances at Cook
Children’s Medical Center. Pray for Reagan White as he ministers among the hurting and hopeful alike.
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October 16–22 October 23–31
“O LORD, how manifold are your
works! In wisdom you have made
them all; the earth is full of your
creatures. Praise the LORD!”
—Psalm 104:24-35c
“Then Jesus said to him, ‘What do
you want me to do for you?’ The
blind man said to him, ‘My teacher,
let me see again.’ Jesus said to him,
‘Go; your faith has made you well.’
Immediately he regained his sight
and followed him on the way.”
—Mark 10:51–52
Cornerstone Baptist Church began in 2005 as a Bible study in the home of Charles and Gwen Brown. In August of
that year, the Brown family began to minister among new Christians and those who had disengaged the church.
Through prayer and discernment, the Bible study grew into a church of 65 members. Cornerstone currently worships
in Snellville, Georgia, in a building purchased in October 2011. Since acquiring a worship space, the church has been
successful in offering activities and discipleship opportunities for adults, youth, and children. Pray that Cornerstone
receives direction as it seeks to hire a minister of families and serve the surrounding community. Pray that church
leaders will serve with a strong sense of commitment, energy, and compassion.
Dawnings is the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s newest initiative for developing and discerning a strategic
lifestyle for your church. This is not a program or a book, however, but a strategic approach to being and doing
church. Dawnings uses the Christian calendar to inform an ongoing vision, to deepen formation, and to move to
engagement. In each church context Dawnings uses congregational leadership and a congregational coach to form
meaningful ministries. Pray for churches that are already moving into this lifestyle and vision. Pray for church
leaders who are guiding this process. Pray that CBF will continue to seek God’s leadership in serving Christians and
churches. Visit dawnings.thefellowship.info to learn more.
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October Birthdays
Month November: Title Joy
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1 Tina Bailey, Southeast Asia (FP)
1 Ron Craddock, Evans, GA (CH)
1 Jonathan Davis, Spring, TX (CH)
2 Maha Boulos, Lebanon (FP)
2 Keith Holmes, Netherlands (FP)
2 Rebecca Reynolds, Bulverde, TX (CH)
3 Jonathan Bailey, Southeast Asia (FP)
3 Matt Norman, Greece (FP)
3 Lucy Vick, Cincinnati, OH (CH)
3 Gene Vincent, Fairview, TN (CH)
4 Matthew Eddleman, Travelers Rest, SC (CH)
4 Dennis Herman, Raleigh, NC (CH)
5 Gwen Brown, Grayson, GA (PLT)
5 Jo Ann Hopper, Emeritus (FP)
5 Gregory Thompson, Oakwood, GA (CH)
5 David White, Johnson City, TN (CH)
6 James Layman, Kirkwood, MO (CH)
6 Jerry Richards, Apex, NC (CH)
8 Melissa Kremer, Rome, GA (CH)
8 Robb Small, Geismar, LA (CH)
9 Sarah Carbajal, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
10 Joseph Boone, Cold Spring, KY (CH)
10 Nomie Derani, Little Falls, NJ (FP)
10 Beth Duke, Smithville, TN (CH)
10 Amber Hipps, Gadsden, AL (CH)
10 Jay Martin, Woodland Park, CO (PC)
10 Tina Woody, Spartanburg, SC (CH)
11 Laura Senter, Everett, WA (CH)
11 Sing Yue, Bakersfield, CA (CH)
12 Ben Newell, San Antonio, TX (FP)
12 Greg Sink, Kileen, TX (CH)
13 Bob Newell, Greece (FP)
13 John Painter, Charleston, SC (CH)
13 Fran Turner, South Africa/Zambia (FP)
13 Gretchen Watson, Louisville, KY (PC)
14 Jeffrey Payne, Fairfax, VA (CH)
14 Kathy Reed, Hot Springs, AR (CH)
15 Bruce Guile, Mexico, MO (CH)
15 Denise Ryder, Greenwood, IN (CH)
16 Karen Black, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
16 Betty Drayton, Sumter, SC (CH)
16 Gregg Drew, Wiesbaden, Germany (CH)
16 Greg Greason, Kansas City, MO (CH)
16 Monty Self, Little Rock, AR (CH)
17 David Fambrough, Todd, NC (CH)
18 Will Bridges, 1998, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
18 Hank Demous, Opelika, AL (CH)
18 Danny Garnnett, Irmo, SC (PC)
20 Carl Brinkley, Fayetteville, NC (PLT)
20 Annette Ellard, Louisville, KY (FP)
20 Chuck Hawkins, Pearland, TX (CH)
20 Brian Krohn, Newport News, VA (CH)
20 Luke Langston, Durham, NC (CH)
22 Keith Cooper, Lubbock, TX (CH)
22 Paul Robertson, Sugar Land, TX (CH)
22 Missy Ward, Uganda (FP)
22 Michael Williamson, Clinton, MS (CH)
23 Adele Henderson, Greenville, NC (CH)
23 Carl Price, Lebanon, TN (CH)
23 Michael Weaver, Knoxville, TN (CH)
24 Ben Collins, Deland, FL (PLT)
24 Wes Monfalcone, Casselberry, FL (CH)
24 Robert Powell, Lubbock, TX (CH)
24 Rick Ruano, N. Miami Beach, FL (CH)
25 Doug Cobb, McGregor, TX (CH)
25 Suzie, Thailand (FP)
26 Dean Dickens, Dallas, TX (FP)
26 Doug Dickens, Indian Trail, NC (PC)
27 Robert Carter, Virginia Beach, VA (CH)
27 Terrell Moye, Riviera Beach, FL (CH)
28 Marilyn Menges, Coronado, CA (CH)
28 Jim Travis, Durham, NC (CH)
29 Sam Scaggs, Dublin, GA (CH)
29 Troy Todd, Sneads Ferry, NC (CH)
30 Richard Brown, Troutville, VA (CH)
30 Hazel Thomas, Houston, TX (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is
born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”
—Luke 2:10
November is filled with many opportunities to experience joy. The month opens with All Saints Day. We
pause to remember faithful family members, friends, and spiritual leaders who have gone before us. We reflect
on those who shared their faith, guided our early steps toward God, and encouraged our spiritual growth.
Thanksgiving Day serves as a reminder that gratitude for all God’s gifts is appropriate everywhere, every day,
and in every season. As the month comes to a close, we move into the season of Advent.
The seasons of the Christian year follow the life of Jesus, beginning with joyful preparation for his birth
during Advent—a word from Latin meaning “to come.” This season calls us to worship both privately and in
community. Prophetic Scriptures and inspiring music enhance our observance of these days of preparation and
anticipation. Advent reminds us that Jesus came, is with us, and will come again. We realize once again that
God gives us another chance as God’s dream is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. We sing, “Joy to the world, the Lord is
come!”
This month, reflect on the people in your life who have nurtured your faith. Write a letter of thanksgiving
to God, naming those you remember and noting how they encouraged you in your spiritual journey. Choose one
or two who are living and write them a note of gratitude and appreciation.
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November 1–8 November 9–15
“Jesus answered, ‘The first is,
“Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God,
the Lord is one; you shall love
the Lord your God with all your
heart, and with all your soul, and
with all your mind, and with all
your strength.” The second is this,
“You shall love your neighbor
as yourself.” There is no other
commandment greater than these.’”
—Mark 12:29–31
“Praise the LORD! Praise the
LORD, O my soul! I will praise the
LORD as long as I live; I will sing
praises to my God all my life long.”
—Psalm 146:1–2
20
Earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, landslides, and hurricanes have turned many lives and livelihoods upside down.
Trauma and turmoil come to those who lose their homes and way of life, and the fabric of society is shredded. Often
families and villages relocate to safer locations. Following an earthquake in October 2010, many residents of the
Mentawai Islands were displaced to jungle relocation camps. Working with a network of Baptist and NGO partners,
CBF field personnel Cindy and Eddy Ruble facilitate disaster relief in Southeast Asia, rebuilding homes and schools,
providing clean water and health services, training in ecological farming techniques, and promoting economic
recovery. Pray for the safety and recovery of those affected by disaster in Southeast Asia as well as for the Rubles’
relief work. Learn more at www.thefellowship.info/Ruble.
More than 26 percent of Florida households speak a language other than English, and each year more than 11
million people from outside the U.S. come to Florida. The 2010 census revealed that 58 percent of Miami residents
were born in another country, making it the first city in the world in which the majority of the population was
foreign born. Embracing this diversity, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Florida opened its borders in 2010 to include
ten churches from the Bahamas and Puerto Rico. In 2012, Florida’s Fellowship Baptists renewed their covenant
partnership with Baptists in Eastern Cuba. Pray for the pastors, church leaders, church planters, CBF of Florida
staff, and CBF field personnel who daily minister among the world’s people residing in the Sunshine State. For more
information about CBF of Florida, visit www.floridacbf.org.
21

November 16–22 November 23–30
“And let us consider how to
provoke one another to love and
good deeds, not neglecting to meet
together, as is the habit of some,
but encouraging one another, and
all the more as you see the Day
approaching.”
—Hebrews 10:24–25
“Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is
not from this world. If my kingdom
were from this world, my followers
would be fighting to keep me from
being handed over to the Jews. But
as it is, my kingdom is not from
here.”
—John 18:36
22
Grace and Main Fellowship is a nontraditional Christian community located in Danville, Virginia, devoted
to discipleship and intentional service among the homeless, near homeless, poor, and addicted communities
downtown. By focusing locally and spending 100 percent of donations on direct service—with no funding going
toward overhead, buildings, or salaries—they are able to help dozens of local leaders undertake new and creative
ventures designed to advance the kingdom of God. Among their chief leaders are CBF field personnel Jessica and
Joshua Hearne. Pray that Grace and Main will continue to grow and flourish in its setting and that city leaders will
make good decisions about the care of Grace and Main’s beloved downtown. Visit www.graceandmain.org to learn
more.
Tourism, fast pace, and cultural diversity describe the urban hub of South Florida. It is a place of contrasts where
wealthy high-rises compete with modest homes, and the expensive vehicles of the affluent share the road with the
common modes of transportation. Set against this background, CBF-endorsed chaplain Rick Ruano ministers among
all types of people through a ministry of listening and reconciliation with God at a crucial time in people’s lives.
Many come to this part of the country to retire and eventually must face the reality of death. Often these people have
distanced themselves from their faith and from God. As a hospice chaplain, Ruano walks with those individuals in
their journey back to God as they allow God’s love to penetrate the last days of their lives. Pray for those in hospice,
that they may experience peace, reconciliation, and love in their final days.
23

November Birthdays
Month December: Title Love
24
1 Lynne Mouchet, Johns Creek, GA (CH)
2 Karen Alford, Southeast Asia (FP)
2 Mark Elder, Spartanburg, SC (CH)
2 Brad Holmes, Gaffney, SC (CH)
2 Jesse W. Hunt, Ft. Drum, NY (CH)
2 Mickie Norman, Leland, NC (CH)
2 Ryan Yaun, Wetumpka, AL (CH)
3 Michael McCawley, Elizabethtown, KY (CH)
3 David Reid, Boise, ID (CH)
3 Jeffrey Ross, Virginia Beach, VA (CH)
4 Cyndi Abbe, Waco, TX (PLT)
4 Eric Maas, Belize (FP)
4 Mark Westebbe, Waynesboro, VA (CH)
5 , North Africa (FP)
5 Michka, 1992, New Jersey (FPC)
5 Cameron Gunnin, San Antonio, TX (CH)
5 Clyde Waters, Columbia, SC (CH)
6 Emerson Byrd, Fort Bliss, TX (CH)
6 Jeff Lee, Macedonia (FP)
6 Meghan McSwain, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
7 Craig Butler, Sugar Land, TX (CH)
7 Pat Coley, Sugar Grove, WV (CH)
7 Mike Graham, Asheville, NC (FP)
7 Roland G. Kuhl, Round Lake Beach, IL (PLT)
7 Zachary Morrow, 1995, Aledo, TX (FPC)
7 Jeffrey Porter, Statesville, NC (CH)
8 Mark Weiler, Greeley, CO (CH)
9 Debby Bradley, Owensboro, KY (CH)
9 Charles Seligman, San Antonio, TX (CH)
9 Audrey Wilson, Durham, NC (CH)
10 Kevin Crowder, Fredericksburg, VA (CH)
10 Angela Lowe, Lawrence, KS (CH)
10 Ralph Mikels, Jr., Seymour, TN (CH)
10 Jim Smith, Atlanta, GA (FP)
11 Phoebe Angel, 2010, Belgium (FPC)
11 Scott Blair, San Antonio, TX (CH)
11 Dana Durham, Sacramento, CA (CH)
11 Mike Langston, Blythewood, SC (CH)
11 Victor Perez, Knoxville, TN (PLT)
11 Troy Petty, Palmyra, VA (PC)
11 Bert Sanders III, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
11 Steve Sweatt, Birmingham, AL (PC)
12 Michael Cox, Elizabethtown, KY (CH)
12 David Cromer, Lancaster, VA (CH)
12 John Lepper, Crestwood, KY (PC)
12 Caroline Smith, South Africa (FP)
13 Shelia Earl, Macedonia (FP)
13 Earl Martin, Emeritus (FP)
13 Gail Smith, Hillsborough, NC (CH)
13 Cindy Wallace, Carpentersville, IL (CH)
14 Katie Anderson, Louisville, KY (CH)
15 Cris Avila, Newnan, GA (PLT)
15 Marcia McQueen, Eden, NC (CH)
16 Edwin Hollis, Odenville, AL (CH)
16 Anita F. Snell, Emeritus (FP)
17 Chuck Strong, Olive Branch, MS (PLT)
17 Elizabeth Thompson, Littleton, CO (PC)
17 Cade Whitley, 2004, Spain (FPC)
17 Dylan Whitley, 2004, Spain (FPC)
18 Elaine Greer, Frankfort, KY (CH)
18 Kristin Long, Richmond, VA (PC)
18 Pam Magee, Mendenhall, MS (CH)
18 Kat Spangler, Shelby, NC (CH)
19 Will Kinnaird, Keller, TX (CH)
19 Nancy Stephens, Georgetown, KY (CH)
20 Chuck Christie, Loganville, GA (CH)
20 Kevin Park, Bellingham, WA (CH)
21 , Turkey (FP)
21 Fred Madren, Indianapolis, IN (CH)
22 Becky Smith, Atlanta, GA (FP)
24 Will Barnes, Savannah, GA (CH)
24 Carol Lynn Brinkley, Fayetteville, NC (PLT)
24 Peggy Gold, Durham, NC (CH)
24 Will Manley, Johnson City, TN (CH)
25 Gary Batchelor, Rome, GA (CH)
25 Tony Biles, Richfield, NC (CH)
25 Robert Cooke, Selma, NC (PC)
25 Ed Farris, Topeka, KS (CH)
25 Brad Hood, Knoxville, TN (CH)
25 Sue Smith, Fredericksburg, VA (FP)
25 Lee Weems, Pineville, LA (CH)
26 Carol Fletcher, Athens, GA (CH)
26 Blake Hart, Chile (FP)
26 Michael O’Rourke, Lawton, OK (CH)
26 Charles Reynolds, Spring Lake, NC (CH)
27 Macarena Aldape, India (FP)
27 Butch Branscome, Charlotte, NC (CH)
27 Saul Burleson, Atlanta, GA (CH)
28 Ronald King, Midland, GA (PC)
28 Abigail Parks, 2004, Slovakia (FPC)
28 Mark Tidsworth, Chapin, SC (PC)
28 Joel Whitley, Spain (FP)
29 Shannon Binkley, 1993, De Soto, KS (FPC)
29 Paul Mullen, Clemmons, NC (CH)
29 Duewayne Tullos, Clinton, MS (CH)
30 John David Hopper, Emeritus (FP)
30 Lucas Pittman, 2003, Miami, FL (FPC)
30 Peter Stephens, Georgetown, KY (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him
shall not perish but have eternal life.”
—John 3:16 TNIV
Jesus said of his first followers: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more
abundantly” (John 10:10 KJV). Long before December, we are bombarded with society’s idea of Christmas
with marketing and consumerism grabbing our attention everywhere we turn. At this season many confuse
“abundance” with Jesus’ promise of “abundant life.” Contemporary followers of Jesus are challenged to balance
the cultural version of Christmas with the spiritual significance of the birth of Jesus and the abundant life of
hope, peace, joy, and love—the real gifts of Christmas.
As we remember God’s amazing demonstration of love, our hearts are warmed, and generosity is
encouraged. As gifts are given and received, God’s people are reminded that the greatest gift is Jesus. In Jesus,
God’s dream of love and reconciliation continues. We are challenged to live out that dream by following God’s
self-giving example in our relationships with others.
This month, prayerfully consider giving the gift of yourself to someone on the margins of society. Serve
in a homeless shelter. Have a conversation with someone at a soup kitchen. Go to a retirement center and visit
someone who doesn’t get any visitors.
25

December 1–8 December 9–15
“Make me to know your ways, O
LORD; teach me your paths. Lead
me in your truth, and teach me, for
you are the God of my salvation; for
you I wait all day long.”
—Psalm 25:4–5
“And this is my prayer, that your
love may overflow more and more
with knowledge and full insight to
help you to determine what is best,
so that on the day of Christ you
may be pure and blameless.”
—Philippians 1:9–10
26
The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship supports more than 135 field personnel partnering in God’s mission and serving
in remote villages as well as large cities around the world. Across five continents, CBF personnel are constructing
wells for Ethiopian communities without clean water, partnering in recovery efforts for Japanese communities
devastated by tsunamis, serving the homeless population of North Carolina, and more. While some field personnel
generate their own funding, many rely completely on support from churches through the Offering for Global Missions
to sustain their work. The goal for the 2012–13 offering is $4.8 million. Pray that God will continue to work through
the generous gifts and compassion of CBF churches and bless their stewardship of resources. Pray that field personnel
will continue to embody Christ among those they serve. Visit www.thefellowship.info/give to give or to learn more.
In July young people attending Bible colleges across China will graduate and move on to places of service. Many will
go to areas which are unfamiliar to them yet have a great need for trained pastors. In Sichuan Province the regional
Bible college graduates around 30 students each year. A province of 100 million people with 300,000 Christians,
however, needs more ministers serving among the population. CBF field personnel Bill and Michelle Cayard work
with the registered church in China facilitating new churches and training pastors and lay leaders. Pray for the
young people who are graduating and moving on to a new phase of life. Pray for those who will leave their families
and friends to serve in areas of need. Ask God to give the Bible college teachers and administrators a vision for
increasing the number of pastors trained each year.
27

December 16–22 December 23–31
“And you will say on that day:
Give thanks to the LORD, call on
his name; make known his deeds
among the nations; proclaim that
his name is exalted.”
—Isaiah 12:4
“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies
the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in
God my Savior, for he has looked
with favor on the lowliness of his
servant.’”—Luke 1:46-48a
28
John and Nancy Wade Norwood planted Heights Church in January 2012 in the historic Heights neighborhood of
Houston, Texas. The Heights is a diverse urban neighborhood that is full of life, and Heights Church hopes to reflect
both the diversity and energy of its neighborhood. The mission of the church is to minister holistically to the people
of this community and to be faithful in proclaiming the gospel. Heights Church currently has 45 regular members,
most of whom have never been active in church before. Pray that Heights Church will be able to guide members to
Christian maturity and identify leaders and workers for the future of the church. Visit www.heightschurchhouston.org
to learn more.
CBF-endorsed chaplain Susan Harthon serves as a pastoral educator in Vidant Medical Center’s Clinical Pastoral
Education program in Greenville, North Carolina. CPE students often bring extensive ministry experience from other
areas of service and are discerning a call to chaplain ministry. Here CPE students expand and enrich their pastoral
care skills, gain the education required to become board-certified chaplains and provide interfaith spiritual care for
patients in crisis as well as families, staff, and the community. The interfaith chapel in which they often work is a
calm, peaceful environment for reflection, prayer, and restoration of body and spirit. Pray for the Clinical Pastoral
Education students and for all who seek to grow in their ministry of caring, compassionate pastoral care. Pray also
for healing in the patients, families, and staff among whom they work. To learn more visit www.vidanthealth.com.
29

December Birthdays
January–April: Becoming
30
1 Tori Wentz, Fredericksburg, VA (FP)
2 Connie Madden, Kirkwood, MO (CH)
3 Rosemary Barfield, Jeffersonville, IN (CH)
3 Ed Beddingfield, Fayetteville, NC (PC)
3 Rachel Gunter Shapard, Jacksonville, FL (CH)
3 James Heath, Dry Prong, LA (CH)
3 Shane McNary, Slovakia (FP)
3 Gennady Podgaisky, Ukraine (FP)
3 Jim Tillman, Swansboro, NC (PLT)
3 David Wilson, Chapel Hill, NC (CH)
4 , Jordan (FP)
4 Jose Albovias, Louisville, KY (CH)
5 Chuck Gass, Gainesville, FL (CH)
5 Kenn Lowther, Columbus, OH (CH)
5 Chris O’Rear, Nashville, TN (PC)
5 Judith Powell, Whiteville, NC (CH)
6 Mickael Eyraud, China (FP)
6 John Norwood, Houston, TX (PLT)
7 Phil Hester, Emeritus (PLT)
7 Ed Wilder, Jacksonville, FL (CH)
8 Stephanie, Los Angeles, CA (FP)
8 Tommy Deal, Dalton, GA (CH)
8 Edward Erwin, Pensacola, FL (CH)
8 Virginia King, Columbia, SC (CH)
8 Donald Kriner, Canton, GA (CH)
8 Robert Pitts, Greenville, MS (PLT)
9 Julie Brown, France (FP)
9 Wayne Hyatt, Spartanburg, SC (PC)
10 Cecelia Beck, Shelby, NC (FP)
10 Beth Roberts, Raleigh, NC (CH)
10 James Williams, Montgomery, AL (CH)
13 Tom Cleary, Emeritus (FP)
13 Rick Landon, Lexington, KY (PC)
13 Scott Lee, Auburn, AL (CH)
13 James Stillwell, Lexington, KY (PC)
13 Robin Sullens, Dallas, TX (PC)
15 Anna Anderson, Scotland Neck, NC (FP)
15 Craig Cantrall, Louisville, KY (CH)
15 James Close, Louisville, KY (CH)
15 Sheree Jones, Greensboro, NC (CH)
16 Cayden Norman, 2000, Greece (FPC)
16 Ina Winstead, Emeritus (FP)
17 Perry Carroll, Anderson, SC (CH)
17 Josh Smith, South Africa (FP)
17 Ronald Wilson, Northport, AL (CH)
18 Joel DeFehr, Oklahoma City, OK (CH)
19 Anna-Grace Acker, 2005, Uganda (FPC)
19 Bernard Morris, Chester, VA (CH)
19 James Palmer, Pensacola, FL (CH)
20 Robert Brasier, Silver City, NM (CH)
20 Emily Jane Clark, 2008, Philippines (FPC)
20 Larry Glover-Wetherington, Durham, NC (PC)
20 Jan Thompson, Cornelia, GA (CH)
20 Alan Willard, Blacksburg, VA (PC)
21 Bethany McLemore, Roanoke, VA (PC)
22 Eli Williams, 2011, South Africa (FPC)
22 Sarah Wofford, Mooresville, NC (CH)
23 Frances Brown, Surfside Beach, SC (PC)
23 Robert Elkowitz, Cumming, GA (CH)
23 Stephen Ivy, Indianapolis, IN (CH)
23 Hal Lee, Clinton, MS (CH)
23 Mary Lois Sanders, The Villages, FL (PLT)
23 Linda Strange, Denton, TX (CH)
24 Michael Carter, Dallas, TX (CH)
24 Phuc Luu, Houston, TX (CH)
24 Bogdan Podgaisky, 1997, Ukraine (FPC)
25 Taylor McNary, 1993, Slovakia (FPC)
26 Scottie Stamper, Charlotte, NC (CH)
27 Larry Austin, Fredericksburg, VA (CH)
27 Steve Clark, Louisville, KY (FP)
27 Gail Davidson, Orlando, FL (CH)
28 Claudia Forrest, Cordova, TN (CH)
28 John Halbrook, Pound Ridge, NY (PC)
28 Mitch Holbrook, Berea, KY (PC)
28 Cynthia Jordan, Conover, NC (CH)
29 Maner Tyson, Waterbury, CT (FP)
29 Art Wiggins, Triangle, VA (CH)
30 Shay Crenshaw, Raleigh, NC (CH)
30 Revonda Deal, Emeritus (FP)
30 James Garrison, Arden, NC (CH)
30 Kenneth Kelly, Black Mountain, NC (CH)
30 Ramona Reynolds, Orlando, FL (CH)
30 Lex Robertson, Spokane, WA (CH)
31 Nathaniel Newell, 1998, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
31 Pamela Rains, Wynne, AR (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“I have been crucified with Christ;
and it is no longer I who live, but it
is Christ who lives in me. And the
life I now live in the flesh I live by
faith in the Son of God, who loved
me and gave himself for me.”
—Galatians 2:19b–20
A new year brings a season of growth. In the cold,
dark winter months, nature appears to be sleeping.
Actually new life is developing, preparing to burst
forth in glorious profusion as spring arrives. We
experience similar periods of growth in our spiritual
lives. Times of silence and solitude—even times of
darkness and pain—deepen our relationship with
God, renew our commitment to God’s dream, and
prepare us for ministry.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are
works in progress. The Holy Spirit brings about
transformation as we make ourselves available
through spiritual practices. We are formed in
Christ’s image as we worship, practice the
disciplines of the Christian faith, and engage in
ministry and mission experiences.
Faith is awakened, supported, and
challenged in relationships readily available in
congregational life. Every part of congregational
life is an opportunity for faith formation: Bible
study, worship, ministry opportunities, mission
groups, choir rehearsals, small-group meetings—
even committee meetings! As individuals learn and
grow in faith, congregations are transformed and
communities are changed. God’s dream becomes
reality through the church, the body of Christ.
These months begin in the darkness of winter and
end with resurrection and new growth.
31

January: Silence and Solitude
January 1–8
“Be still, and know that I am God!”
—Psalm 46:10
“Of this gospel I have become a
servant according to the gift of
God’s grace that was given me by
the working of his power.”
—Ephesians 3:7
32
Waking early to a snow-covered landscape is a winter treat! Predicted or not, the dawning of a “snow day”
reveals a world of silent stillness and pristine beauty, and a beautiful gift of silence and solitude.
While silence and solitude are frequently mentioned as important spiritual disciplines, they are often
the most challenging to practice. Activity and noise fill our lives. Family and work responsibilities allow little
time for solitude. Imagine getting away for a solitary retreat, even for 24 hours, and “fasting” from television
and radio, the Internet, magazines and newspapers, and the electronic gadgets that entertain us. Even then it is
often a challenge to quiet our minds and still our noisy hearts. It takes effort, planning and discipline to place
ourselves alone and silent in God’s presence long enough to hear and respond to God’s voice.
The Gospels indicate numerous times when Jesus needed and wanted to take a break from his active life
of service. He often chose solitude—to pray, to rest, to prepare for ministry, and to face his death. His example
encourages us to make space and time for silence and solitude in the daily, monthly, and annual rhythms of our
lives.
This month set aside a day for solitude and silence. If you can’t get away, make a retreat at home. “Fast”
from your favorite media. Rest. Read Scripture and devotional resources. Take a walk and enjoy the winter
landscape. Pray.
Ali was leaving a concert when a young American Christian approached him with a greeting in Persian, a smile,
and some literature. The two formed a relationship, and Ali began coming to the local Afghan and Iranian Christian
Fellowship where CBF field personnel minister among Persian speakers. He enjoyed the warm fellowship, became a
diligent student of the Bible, was baptized into the life of the church, and now serves on the worship team. “I’m very
thankful for everything that is happening,” Ali says. “I’ve made many friends and now I can freely talk about my
belief and even invite friends to church. When I first read John 1, I realized that Jesus Christ is Lord and comes into
our lives with the good news.” Pray that God will continue to work in Ali’s life as well as the Afghan and Iranian
Christian Fellowship. Visit www.persianwo.org to learn more.
33

January 9–15 January 16–22
“But now thus says the LORD, he
who created you, O Jacob, he who
formed you, O Israel: Do not fear,
for I have redeemed you; I have
called you by name, you are mine.”
—Isaiah 43:1
“How precious is your steadfast
love, O God! All people may
take refuge in the shadow of
your wings. They feast on the
abundance of your house, and you
give them drink from the river of
your delights.”
—Psalm 36:7–8
34
Susan Rogers is a church planter and founding pastor of The Well at Springfield. The church meets in a rented cafe
and event center in the heart of the historic Jacksonville, Florida, neighborhood and is striving to be a missional
presence. They participate in the life of the community and gather for weekly worship and Bible study. They also
collaborate with other community groups to serve those in need in the community. While there is a wonderful
pioneering spirit and evidence of new growth in the neighborhood, much work remains to be done to bring unity,
restoration, and hope. Pray that they will continue to develop an identity of openness to all people and will be a
source of God’s reconciliation and healing. To learn more about The Well at Springfield, visit
www.thewellatspringfield.org.
Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community employs two full-time chaplains. In 2011, CBF-endorsed chaplain
Beth Roberts joined Phyllis Mayo, Springmoor chaplain for 20 years. This continuing care retirement community
located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is home to 600 residents living in a variety of settings. Chaplains seek to offer
spiritual guidance and emotional support to residents and their families as well as 500 staff members. In addition,
they provide worship experiences and facilitate groups for discussion, support, and spiritual growth. Pray that God
will empower these chaplains to discern the spiritual needs of the Springmoor community and to serve in ways that
bring honor to God. Pray that the Springmoor community experiences the fellowship, hope, and love of Christ.
35

January 23–31
Month January Birthdays
36
“For just as the body is one and
has many members, and all the
members of the body, though
many, are one body, so it is with
Christ.”
—1 Corinthians 12:12
Laxman was a fisherman, and his family worked on the docks of Mumbai cleaning fish and prawns. In 2003 he
followed God and became a fisher of people. Using Jesus’ model of discipleship, Laxman was one of the 12 that his
pastor Shankar trained to become a leader in the church. Today Laxman is training his second batch of leaders,
but it is not easy. He has been beaten twice and threatened often, but his only concern is that every person hears
the word of God. Twenty million Banjara in India are marginalized, and CBF field personnel Eddie and Macarena
Aldape are working to restore them. In ten years this group of Banjara believers has grown from 20 to more than
2,000. Pray for the Banjara Gypsies of India that the nets may continue to be full and for many other leaders such as
Laxman, whose only desire is to tell others about the love of Jesus.
1 Sam Bandela, Atlanta, GA (FP)
1 Christina Pittman, Summerville, SC (CH)
1 Andy Cowie, Haiti (FP)
2 Gabriella Newell, 2002, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
2 Jon Parks, Slovakia (FP)
2 Tammy Stocks, Romania (FP)
3 Christopher Bowers, Powhatan, VA (PC)
3 Bill McCann, Madisonville, KY (CH)
3 Meilyn Norman, 2001, Four Oaks, NC (FPC)
4 Joshua Hickman, Newnan, GA (CH)
5 Richard Durham, Mount Pleasant, NC (CH)
5 Charles Kirby, Hendersonville, NC (CH)
5 Kevin Lynch, Spartanburg, SC (PC)
5 Calvin McIver, Sacramento, CA (CH)
5 Linda Serino, Memphis, TN (CH)
6 Larry Hardin, Topeka, KS (CH)
7 Denny Spear, Dunwoody, GA (CH)
8 Rachel Hill, Shelby, NC (CH)
8 Gerard Howell, Lexington, KY (CH)
8 Ethan Lee, 2009, Slovakia (FPC)
9 Bill Cayard, China (FP)
9 Paul Hamilton, Lodge, SC (CH)
9 Patrick Moses, Mansfield, TX (PLT)
9 Jonathan Myrick, 1994, Kenya (FPC)
9 Bella Smith, 2010, South Africa (FPC)
10 Melody Harrell, Kenya (FP)
10 Kenny Sherin, Columbia, MO (FP)
11 Chris Carson, Fayetteville, NC (CH)
11 Ed Waldrop, Augusta, GA (CH)
12 Neil Cochran, Greenville, SC (CH)
12 Larry Connelly, Decatur, GA (CH)
12 Scott Smallwood, Englewood, FL (CH)
13 Dianne McNary, Slovakia (FP)
13 George Pickle, Marietta, GA (CH)
14 Randy McDaniel, Floyd, VA (PLT)
14 Maxine Moseley, Olive Branch, MS (CH)
15 Keith Ethridge, Yorktown, VA (CH)
15 John Foxworth, El Paso, TX (CH)
16 Merrie Grace Harding, 1995, Orlando, FL (FPC)
16 Fran Graham, Asheville, NC (FP)
16 Jerry Hendrix, Abilene, TX (PLT)
16 David Hormenoo, Durham, NC (CH)
16 Mary Lynn Lewis, San Antonio, TX (CH)
16 Michelle Smith, Pemberton, NJ (CH)
17 Anjani Cole, Spain (FP)
17 Aaron Norman, 2005, Greece (FPC)
17 Glenn Norris, Sherwood, AR (CH)
17 Neal Sasser, Suffolk, VA (CH)
18 William Beaver, Fort Benning, GA (CH)
18 Jeanell Cox, Smithfield, NC (CH)
18 Bill Cubine, Louisville, KY (CH)
18 Justin Nelson, Mount Airy, NC (CH)
19 Kaelah-Joy Acker, 2008, Uganda (FPC)
19 Jackie Ward, Goshen, KY (CH)
20 Marcia Binkley, De Soto, KS (FP)
20 Marshall Gupton, Smyrna, TN (CH)
20 Kevin Morgan, Pisgah Forest, NC (CH)
20 Paul Tolbert, Clayton, NC (CH)
21 Jim King, Fort Belvoir, VA (CH)
23 Richard Atkinson, Bastrop, TX (CH)
23 Mark Williams, South Africa (FP)
25 Mich, New Jersey (FP)
25 Cyndi Levesque, China (FP)
25 Chris Nagel, Houston, TX (CH)
26 Sandy Hale, Lebanon, NH (CH)
27 Darrell Bare, Boone, NC (CH)
27 Ben Sandford, Portsmouth, VA (CH)
27 Eric Smith, Willow Park, TX (CH)
28 Chuck Ahlemann, Des Moines, IA (CH)
28 Griselda Escobar, Tyler, TX (CH)
28 Kristen Long, Morgantown, WV (CH)
29 Darryl Jefferson, Charlotte, NC (CH)
30 Hal Ritter, Waco, TX (PC)
31 Rebecca Andrews, Irving, TX (CH)
31 John Manuel, Dupont, WA (CH)
31 Paul Smith, Oakland, TN (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
37

February: Sacred Reading
February 1–8
38
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
—Psalm 119:105
Ash Wednesday comes in February and opens the season of Lent. Many Christians devote more time to spiritual
practices as a way to prepare for Holy Week and Easter. Sacred reading (lectio divina in Latin) is an appropriate
and meaningful practice for this season that involves reading Scripture in a devotional manner. While serious
Bible study is an important part of our spiritual practices, sacred reading brings the Bible to life in a personal
way.
Sacred reading follows a simple pattern that can be used by individuals or small groups. Begin by
choosing a brief passage of Scripture, perhaps a psalm or part of a Gospel. Start with a few moments of silence
and prayer, asking for God’s presence and openness to God’s Word. Read the text slowly, taking note of a word
or phrase that seems to get your attention. Reading the text again, reflect on the feelings and emotions that arise.
In the third reading, pray, asking God to reveal the meaning of the feelings you have experienced. After the
fourth and final reading, you may wish to record your thoughts and/or prayer in a journal. In a group setting,
individuals may choose to share their thoughts after each reading. Reflecting on the experience throughout the
day allows God to continue to reveal God’s will and calling, to shape us in Christ’s image and to prepare us for
sharing God’s love.
This month take time at least weekly to practice sacred reading as described.
“And if I have prophetic powers,
and understand all mysteries and
all knowledge, and if I have all
faith, so as to remove mountains,
but do not have love, I am
nothing.”
—1 Corinthians 13:2
Unemployment, crime, abandoned houses, and educational deficits mark the neighborhood in Northeast Shelby,
North Carolina, where Cecelia Beck, one of CBF’s field personnel, works among those who have been marginalized.
By building relationships with her neighbors, Cecelia is learning their needs and seeking to help meet those
needs. Children are a priority, as many live in single-parent households and require extra attention in encouraging
them to discern their identity, educational goals, and future. Cecelia provides Bible studies, monthly “Fun Blasts,”
community meals, and hospitality in her home to share the love and hope of Christ. Pray for the Northeast
Shelby Weed and Seed neighborhood and its children, as their hopes, dreams, and safety are hindered by their
environment. Visit www.thefellowship.info/beck to learn more.
39

February 9–15 February 16–22
“Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and put a new and right spirit
within me. Do not cast me away
from your presence, and do not
take your holy spirit from me.”
—Psalm 51:10–11
“For there is no distinction between
Jew and Greek; the same Lord is
Lord of all and is generous to all
who call on him.”
—Romans 10:12
40
At Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women in Troy, Virginia, women are filled with shame for past mistakes and
feelings of worthlessness from a lifetime of abuse or addiction. Mothers are separated from their children and are
striving to better themselves amid harshness, ever paying the price for an instance of poor judgment on the worst
day of their lives. Among these women, CBF-endorsed chaplain Julie Perry listens to their stories and shares God’s
longing to heal them. Pray that God will continue to work at Fluvanna Correctional Center where Perry experiences
the challenge and joy of participating in that work. Pray that she receives direction and wisdom in this ministry.
Pray for the women, that they may be open to the healing and transformation God intends for them and that they
may find love in a desperate place.
Carrie and Nathan Dean, along with their son Oliver, live in Edgewood, a diverse neighborhood approximately two
miles east of downtown Atlanta. They are working to turn the tide of a post-Christian culture in their community,
helping people discover and experience the good news of Jesus. They started Edgewood Church in October 2010.
On any given week their work includes attending neighborhood meetings as local school council members for
elementary and middle schools, planning events that will connect people with one another and God, overseeing
volunteer renovations of their building, visiting regular church attenders, hosting neighbors, discipling, mentoring,
and writing sermons. Please pray for the Deans’ safety and that God’s Spirit will plunge into the community of faith
at Edgewood Church with the good news of Jesus. Visit Edgewood Church at www.edgewoodchurchatlanta.org.
41

February 23–28
Month February Birthdays
42
“Brothers and sisters, join in
imitating me, and observe those
who live according to the example
you have in us.”
—Philippians 3:17
Javier Benitez is pastor of Iglesia Bautista Misionera Roca Fuerte in Pittsboro, North Carolina. He also serves as leadercoach
for Companerismo Cristiano Emmanuel, CBF of North Carolina’s Hispanic Ministry network. With the help of
his wife, Alma, and a leadership team of Hispanic ministers, Javier trains pastors and lay leaders in evangelism and
discipleship ministries. Each year the network sponsors five events for men, women, youth, and families that reach,
train, and send workers to start new faith communities. They are currently nurturing seven new church starts and
planning an eighth for North Raleigh under the leadership of Pastor Pablo Ernesto Hernandez. Pray for Javier, Alma,
Pablo, and this network of Cooperative Baptists who are faithfully and effectively reaching a growing population of
newcomers to the United States. For more information visit www.cbfnc.org/Missions/HispanicMinistry.aspx.
1 Susan Collins, Stone Mountain, GA (CH)
1 Carrie Dean, Atlanta, GA (PLT)
1 Brad Jackson, Springfield, OH (CH)
1 James Touchton, Ithaca, NY (CH)
2 Joe Alverson, Nicholasville, KY (CH)
2 John R. Fogarty, Freeport, FL (PLT)
2 Jaisis Orea, 2002, China (FPC)
2 Dianne Otwell, Dunwoody, GA (CH)
2 Terry Tatro, Louisville, KY (CH)
3 Richard Dayringer, Grove, OK (PC)
3 William Elliott, Lexington, KY (CH)
3 Philip Whisnand, McAllen, TX (FP)
4 Thelma Chambers-Young, Oklahoma City, OK (CH)
5 Arley Hughes, Saint Mary’s, GA (CH)
5 Joanna Tarr, Norfolk, VA (CH)
7 Lauren Efird, Cary, NC (CH)
8 Biju Chacko, Morrisville, NC (CH)
8 C.J. Wehmiller, Murrayville, GA (FP)
9 Andy Cooper, Greenville, SC (CH)
9 Joe Lentz, Biloxi, MS (CH)
9 Elizabeth Milazzotto, Louisville, KY (PC)
9 Willie Smith, Fredericksburg, VA (CH)
10 Karen Estle, Indianapolis, IN (PC)
10 James Rentz, Spartanburg, SC (PC)
10 Sam Southard, Naples, FL (PC)
10 Cynthia Thomas, Houston, TX (CH)
11 Lauralee Estes, Northport, AL (PC)
11 Katee Harris, Rose Hill, NC (CH)
11 Ann Miller, Arlington, TX (CH)
11 Will Runyon, Maryville, TN (CH)
11 Rick Stevenson, Shelbyville, TN (CH)
12 Mera Corlett, Louisville, KY (CH)
12 Sasha Zivanov, St. Louis, MO (FP)
13 Dianne Swaim, North Little Rock, AR (CH)
14 Roger Bolton, Conyers, GA (PC)
14 Charla Littell, Burlington, NC (CH)
15 Tolly Williamson, Decatur, GA (CH)
17 Nancy James, Haiti (FP)
17 Ryan Wagers, Salisbury, NC (CH)
18 Edward Fleming, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
18 Jean Pruett, Charlotte, NC (CH)
20 Timothy Doremus, Mt. Washington, KY (PLT)
20 Amanda Ducksworth, Columbus, MS (CH/PLT)
20 Younsoo Park, Aiea, HI (CH)
21 Rebecca Church, Louisville, KY (CH)
21 Linda McComb, Clinton, MS (CH)
21 Jeffery Thompson, Gainesville, GA (CH)
23 Gene Murdock, India (FP)
23 Michelle Wildes, West Columbia, SC (CH)
24 Edwin Badillo, Levittown, Puerto Rico (CH)
24 Danny Tomlinson, Belton, TX (CH)
25 Lindell Anderson, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
25 Rick Foster, Lynchburg, VA (CH)
25 Mira Zivanov, St. Louis, MO (FP)
26 Rodney Craggs, Louisville, KY (CH)
26 Zeke DeLozier, Bogart, GA (PC)
26 Sheryl Johnson, Richmond, VA (CH)
27 Lori Myrick, Kenya (FP)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
43

March: Fasting
March 1–8
44
“But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,
so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret;
and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
—Matthew 6:17–18
The season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and continues for 40 days, excluding Sundays. It is a time for
self-examination and reflection as followers of Jesus prepare their hearts for the somber events of Holy Week
and the celebration of the resurrection on Easter Sunday. The spiritual discipline most often associated with Lent
is fasting.
While fasting usually means doing without food for a period of time, it can also mean giving up a
specific food item, a habit, or a time-consuming activity. The 40-day period of Lent is an opportunity to “let go”
of some behavior and to reflect on how it controls us. Giving up some habit or activity provides time to replace
it with a spiritual practice that helps us grow in the image of Christ. Jesus encouraged his followers to fast
and to do it in a manner that does not attract attention. Whatever we choose as a Lenten discipline or spiritual
practice, Jesus cautions about our making it a big deal in front of others.
The season of Lent calls us to sacrifice something of ourselves. It reminds us of the sacrifice Jesus made
on our behalf and the challenge to become more like him.
Prayerfully consider observing a 24-hour fast from food during Lent. Helpful guidelines are available in
Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. Or fast from something else that tends to control you.
“O God, you are my God, I seek
you, my soul thirsts for you; my
flesh faints for you, as in a dry
and weary land where there is no
water.”
—Psalm 63:1
Sangrawee is the host of La Masion Mathieu d’Montreal ministry where she lives with and welcomes refugees who
have fled their homelands in search of peace and a new life. Sangrawee believes God brought her to Canada from
Thailand so she would find her way and experience truth. During her difficult relocation, her marriage failed and,
with it, the right for her daughter to live with her. In her struggle a Christian friend gave her an invitation to church,
a Bible, and a word of hope. Now she tells her family and friends in Thailand often about her ministry and hopes
to return one day as a missionary among her people. Partnered with Sangrawee, CBF field personnel Kim and Marc
Wyatt are working in Canada to create welcoming communities and strategies for befriending and sharing the
gospel with refugees and immigrants.
45

March 9–15 March 16–22
“So if anyone is in Christ, there is
a new creation: everything old has
passed away; see, everything has
become new!”
—2 Corinthians 5:17
“Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like
the watercourses in the Negeb. May
those who sow in tears reap with
shouts of joy.”
—Psalm 126:4–5
The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship assists those called to all types of ministry. For those pursuing a call to church
planting, CBF offers an online cohort twice a year. The cohort facilitates community among potential church planters
while helping them discern their particular call to ministry. In addition, church planting candidates participate in an
annual exploratory conference for more intensive training. Pray that these candidates will realize they are not alone.
Pray that they will discern God’s call and receive the necessary support to follow through with reaching others with
the gospel. To learn more about CBF church starts, visit www.thefellowship.info/Missions/Network/Church-Starts.
CBF-endorsed chaplain Ron Craddock serves as chief of Chaplain Services at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical
Center in Augusta, Georgia. Through his position Ron leads a staff of five full-time staff chaplains, four full-time CPE
resident chaplains, and a support assistant. Ron and his staff work to provide for the spiritual needs of all veterans
and active duty members that receive care from the VA Medical Center. Pray that God will change hearts, strengthen
lives, and make families whole again through God’s love and presence. Pray also for the pastoral care offered by the
chaplains at Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, that all veterans will receive physical and spiritual healing.
46
47

March 23–31
Month March Birthdays
48
“I give you a new commandment,
that you love one another. Just as
I have loved you, you also should
love one another.”
—John 13:34
The vast majority of unreached people groups live in the Middle East and Asia. CBF ministry teams are actively
sharing the gospel with the least evangelized and most marginalized people in countries such as Jordan, Lebanon,
India, Indonesia, China, Malaysia, and Thailand. In many of these countries, conversion to Christianity is illegal or
damaging to social and family relationships. Pray for new believers as they seek to share their newfound faith in
the face of alienation and hardship. Pray for protection and creativity for CBF field personnel as they advocate for
individuals caught in human trafficking, translate the Scriptures into new languages, plant new churches, conduct
evangelistic meetings, and carry out other ministries among the marginalized people of the Middle East and North
Africa. Visit www.cbfinternationals.com to learn more.
1 Vicki Hollon, San Antonio, TX (CH)
1 Brent Peery, Conroe, TX (CH)
1 Chris Scales, Lubbock, TX (CH)
2 Michael Patterson, Harker Heights, TX (CH)
2 Laurice Rogers, Hodgenville, KY (PC)
2 Glenn Williams, Louisville, KY (PC)
3 David Bosley, Vienna, VA (CH)
3 Carolyn Hicks, Belmont, NC (CH)
4 Ed Lemmond, Athens, TN (CH)
4 Jane Martin, Emeritus (FP)
4 Kevin Traughber, Paducah, KY (CH)
5 Buddy Corbin, Asheville, NC (CH)
5 Donnie Marlar, Rochester, NY (CH)
6 Ronnie Adams, New York City, NY (FP)
6 Bekah Hart, Chile (FP)
6 Chad Hawkins, Pearland, TX (CH)
7 Duane Binkley, De Soto, KS (FP)
7 Wade Rowatt, Louisville, KY (PC)
8 Marian Boyer, Nottingham, MD (CH)
8 Isaac Pittman, 1999, Miami, FL (FPC)
9 Stuart Collier, Vestavia, AL (CH)
9 Michelle Norman, Greece (FP)
10 Dean Akers, Fort Benning, GA (CH)
10 Joshua Ballew, 1992, China (FPC)
10 Cindy Bishop, Piedmont, SC (CH)
11 Julia Flores, Lynchburg, VA (CH)
11 Rebekah Newton, Concord, NC (CH)
11 Genene Nisbet, Louisville, KY (PC)
11 Beth Ogburn, Oklahoma City, OK (CH)
12 Kenneth Bentley, Carbon Hill, AL (CH)
12 Jameson Williams, Shelby, NC (CH)
14 Mary Beth Caffey, Lewiston, ME (PLT)
14 Wayne Lanham, Forest, VA (CH)
15 Mary van Rheenen, Europe (FP)
17 Mary Gessner, Madison, AL (PC)
17 Joel Sturtevant, Frankfort, KY (CH)
17 Blake Traynham, Richmond, VA (CH)
18 Dodie Huff-Fletcher, Louisville, KY (PC)
18 Denny Jones, Atlanta, GA (CH)
18 Gregory Qualls, Mooresboro, NC (CH)
18 Beth Riddick, Fredericksburg, VA (CH)
18 David Robinson, Newport News, VA (PC)
19 Jennifer Bordenet, Orlando, FL (CH)
19 Kim Schmitt, Fayetteville, GA (CH)
20 Anna Allred, Asheboro, NC (CH)
20 Cynthia Corey, Brunswick, GA (CH)
20 William Hemphill, Stone Mountain, GA (CH)
20 Tom Sanders, The Villages, FL (PLT)
21 Walter Jackson, Louisville, KY (PC)
21 Alan Melton, Waynesboro, VA (PC)
23 Andy Overmon, Mustang, OK (CH)
24 Edgar Berryman, Chicago, IL (CH)
24 Michael Gross, Roswell, GA (CH)
24 Kevin Quiles, Canton, GA (CH)
24 Mark Spain, Canyon Lake, TX (CH)
24 Todd Walter, Inman, SC (CH)
24 Sara Williams, South Africa (FP)
25 Jade Acker, Uganda (FP)
25 Bryan Cottrell, Sahuarita, AZ (CH)
25 Gary Nistler, Columbia, SC (CH)
27 Ken Chapman, Jefferson City, MO (CH)
27 David Gladson, Pendleton, SC (CH)
27 Amy Karriker, Great Falls, MT (CH)
27 Joshua Witt, Jefferson City, TN (CH)
28 Aaron, Los Angeles, CA (FP)
28 Lynda Schupp, Flower Mound, TX (CH)
28 Megan Whitley, 2002, Spain (FPC)
29 Phil McCarley, Charles Town, WV (CH)
30 Phyllis Borchert, Oakridge, TN (CH)
30 John Emmart, Stoughton, WI (CH)
30 Layne Rogerson, Winterville, NC (CH)
31 Dale Cross, Lawrenceville, GA (CH)
31 Larry Davidson, Goshen, AL (CH)
31 William Davidson, Wetumpka, AL (CH)
31 Tim Madison, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
49

April: Spiritual Guidance
April 1–8
“I pray that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
so that you may lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work
and as you grow in the knowledge of God. May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from
his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving
thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.”
—Colossians 1:9–12, adapted NRSV
“The LORD is my strength and
my might; he has become my
salvation.”
—Psalm 118:14
50
Many Christians—longing for a deeper relationship with God, wanting to be held accountable in prayer, and
seeking to discern God’s direction in their lives—look to someone for guidance. Spiritual directors are gifted and
trained to serve in this way.
A spiritual director is primarily a guide or companion on the spiritual journey, one who is committed
to listening as another shares practices of prayer and other spiritual disciplines. Believing that God is actively
present with them, the director helps another fellow believer to notice how God is communicating with them,
leading them, and calling them to a deeper relationship with God.
The celebration of the resurrection on Easter Sunday is a significant day in the lives of those who follow
Jesus. We are challenged to maintain the Lenten disciplines and spiritual practices as we continue our spiritual
journey beyond that day and to share the message of Easter with others. A spiritual guide can help us with that
challenge and may pray for us as Paul prayed for the people at Colossae, encouraging us as we continue to be
formed in Christ’s image.
This month meet with a trusted Christian friend to share confidential conversation about your practice of
prayer and other spiritual disciplines. Pray for each other. Consider meeting regularly for spiritual conversation
and prayer.
Ilir was denied work in Albania and now works construction in Athens, Greece. He is bright, but poverty inhibited
any formal education beyond high school. Yet Ilir always has a book in his pocket, enjoys discussing politics and
has excelled in the English as a Foreign Language training at PORTA, the Albania House in Athens overseen by
CBF field personnel Bob and Janice Newell as well as Matt and Michelle Norman. Because Ilir’s family remains in
Albania, he calls PORTA his “family.” With the economic distress in Greece, Ilir now has little work, but when he
has the money to purchase a Metro ticket, he comes to PORTA seeking companionship, whether or not his class
is meeting. Pray that Ilir finds work opportunities and that PORTA will continue to be a place of belonging and
reconciliation for Albanians. To learn more, visit www.anotherdayalongtheway.wordpress.com.
51

April 9–15 April 16–22
“When they had finished breakfast,
Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon
son of John, do you love me
more than these?’ He said to him,
‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love
you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my
lambs.’”
—John 21:15
“My sheep hear my voice. I know
them, and they follow me.”
—John 10:27
On April 27, 2011, a massive tornado ripped across Alabama. The world read about Tuscaloosa and Birmingham but
nothing about small towns like Hackleburg in northwest Alabama. Although CBFResponds quickly established relief
efforts in major cities, it also sought other areas of service. Along with many on-the-ground partners, CBFResponds
is helping residents of Hackleburg regain order in their shattered lives by assisting in rebuilding a community. The
tornadoes left one Hackleburg resident, Miss Betty, without her apartment, possessions, or insurance, upon which
CBF personnel responded by building her new home. Pray for CBFResponds as it continues to help those with the
greatest need and least resources. Visit www.thefellowship.info/cbfresponds to learn more.
Synago Church in Richmond, Virginia, planted and co-pastored by Nelson Taylor and Erin Spengeman, may be a
small, quirky congregation, but it is big on love, laughter, and openness. Named from the Greek word for “gathering
together,” Synago seeks to gather unlikely people and passions, fusing them into a new way of being church. As a
church for those who grew up in church but left in disillusionment, Synago seeks to create safe spaces for seekers
to ask questions and doubt, connect faith with music, and pray for one another. Pray that Synago receives guidance
from God as well as resources to support the church and its blossoming music center. Pray that seekers in Richmond
will find a home at Synago.
52
53

April 23–30
Month April Birthdays
54
“Let them praise the name of
the LORD, for his name alone is
exalted; his glory is above earth
and heaven.”
—Psalm 148:13
Each day the men and women of the United States Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command work
across 39 states and five continents to influence and impact government officials at the highest levels. Yet they may
live next door to you. While CBF-endorsed military chaplain Scot McCosh serves as the pastor of Mount Pisgah
Baptist Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina, he also ministers among these citizen soldiers of the U.S. Army
Reserve, reaching out with the grace of the gospel and managing nearly 40 seminary students training to become
chaplains. Pray that these influencers might themselves be influenced by the good news of Jesus. Pray for military
chaplains and for the citizen soldiers in your neighborhood with whom they work, that they may experience God’s
love and grace.
1 Frank Dawkins, Greenville, NC (PC)
1 Jennifer Dill, Charlotte, NC (CH)
1 Greg Smith, Fredericksburg, VA (FP)
2 Christie McTier, Dearing, GA (CH)
2 Leonora Newell, San Antonio, TX (FP)
2 Wayde Pope, Crestview, FL (CH)
3 Marjorie Avent, Daniel Island, SC (CH)
3 Jay Hogewood, Baton Rouge, LA (CH)
3 Charles Mason, Mansfield, OH (CH)
3 Michele Norman, Four Oaks, NC (FP)
3 Wayne Sibley, Pineville, LA (CH)
3 Thomas Wicker, Salado, TX (CH)
5 Darcie Jones, Columbia, SC (CH)
5 Eddy Ruble, Southeast Asia (FP)
6 Steven Mills, Hendersonville, SC (CH)
7 LaCount Anderson, Scotland Neck, NC (FP)
7 Tricia Baldwin, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
7 Nathan Dean, Atlanta, GA (PLT)
7 Bonnie Hicks, Woodstock, GA (CH)
7 Mary Timms, Hawkinsville, GA (CH)
7 Mary Wrye, Henderson, KY (CH)
9 Olen Grubbs, Hixson, TN (CH)
9 Jim Pruett, Charlotte, NC (PC)
9 Jessica Hearne, Danville, VA (FP)
9 Steve Vance, Charlotte, NC (CH)
10 George Hemingway, High Springs, FL (CH)
10 Ben Hodge, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
10 Alan Rogers, San Diego, CA (CH)
11 Geoffrey Bailey, Leavenworth, KS (CH)
11 Laura Broadwater, Louisville, KY (CH)
11 Steve James, Haiti (FP)
12 Ryan Clark, Philippines (FP/PC)
12 Andy Hale, Clayton, NC (PLT)
12 Beverly Hatcher, Winston-Salem, NC (PLT)
13 Steve Sullivan, Little Rock, AR (CH)
14 Kerri Kroeker, Lakeland, FL (CH)
15 , Turkey (FP)
15 Jeff Flowers, Evans, GA (CH)
16 Kaitlyn Parks, 2006, Slovakia (FPC)
16 Kay Wright, Virginia Beach, VA (CH)
17 Allison Hicks, Middlesboro, KY (CH)
17 David Jones, Newberg, OR (CH)
18 Cyrus Bush, Pfafftown, NC (CH)
18 Ray Cooley, Wallingford, CT (CH)
18 Nathan Solomon, Swansboro, NC (CH)
19 Michael Lee, Hendersonville, NC (CH)
19 Michael Lee, Asheville, NC (PLT)
19 Jack Wehmiller, Murrayville, GA (FP)
20 , North Africa (FP)
20 David Chan, Houston, TX (CH)
20 Susan Stephenson, Edmond, OK (CH)
21 Richard Dorsey, Albuquerque, NM (CH)
22 Judith Grace, Temple, TX (CH)
22 Lucas Newell, 1997, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
22 Barry Pennington, Blue Springs, MO (CH)
23 David Kolb, Lexington, NC (CH)
24 Brenda Atkinson, Greenville, SC (CH)
24 Daniel Bucur, Minot AFB, ND (CH)
24 Rhonda Gilligan-Gillespie, Wichita, KS (CH)
24 Laura Mannes, San Antonio, TX (CH)
24 Travis Smith, Forest City, NC (CH)
24 Leslie Stith, Liberty, MO (CH)
25 Connie Graham, Fitzgerald, GA (CH)
27 Pat Davis, Baton Rouge, LA (CH)
27 Carter Harrell, 1995, Kenya (FPC)
27 Pete Parks, Williamsburg, VA (CH)
28 Gary McFarland, Charlotte, NC (PC)
29 Ted Dougherty, Winston-Salem, NC (PC)
30 Charles Wallace, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
55

May–August: Being
May: Being Community
56
Asked about the most important
commandment, “Jesus answered,
‘. . . You shall love the Lord your God
with all your heart, and with all your
soul, and with all your mind, and
with all your strength.’ The second is
this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as
yourself.’”
—Mark 12:29–31a
As we capture God’s vision of reconciliation and as
we seek to grow in Christlikeness, we are called to
work for the transformation of the world. We want
to invest in others’ lives, sharing God’s love and
being the presence of Christ in the world.
The Day of Pentecost, 50 days after Easter
Sunday, marks the birth of the church and opens
the season of Kingdomtide. During this season we
learn more about what it means to be the body
of Christ and what Christ calls us to do. We give
generously out of our resources to support God’s
work in the world. We offer our time and energy
in acts of compassion. We develop relationships
so that we can meet real needs. We learn about
the underlying causes of hunger and poverty and
become advocates for change.
We are not alone as we capture God’s
dream, seek to become like Christ, and work to
make Christ real to those around us. We have
power beyond ourselves in the Holy Spirit. We pray
with the apostle Paul:
“Now to him who by the power at work
within us is able to accomplish abundantly
far more than all we can ask or imagine,
to him be glory in the church and in Christ
Jesus to all generations, forever and ever.
Amen” (Eph. 3:20–21).
“When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven
there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.
Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were
filled with the Holy Spirit.” —Acts 2:1–4
“They [those who heard Peter’s message and were baptized] devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching
and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” —Acts 2:42
Fifty days after Easter Sunday, we celebrate Pentecost, a significant day in the Christian calendar. The
incarnation became real and personal to the followers of Jesus at Pentecost. The Holy Spirit, in the form of wind
and fire, transformed ordinary disciples into courageous witnesses. The New Testament book of Acts relates the
amazing circumstances of Pentecost and describes the church at Jerusalem that grew out of that experience. The
early Christians were encouraged and strengthened as they came together for study and prayer and fellowship.
Faithful followers of Jesus continue to experience the Holy Spirit: God dwelling within them. The Holy Spirit
gives direction and courage, comfort and hope, companionship and peace. Ordinary people become faithful and
courageous witnesses, eager to share the good news of God’s love.
Participating with a community of faith is important for Christians. Learning and growing with fellow
believers is a vital part of the spiritual life. Healthy congregations encourage, support, and challenge our faith
as we study Scripture, pray, worship, and serve with others. We are encouraged to work together as we share
God’s love within our community of faith, the community we live in, and the global community.
This month use your congregational pictorial directory or other resource as you pray for your community
of faith. Pray for the Holy Spirit to empower your pastor, staff, and members as you share God’s love in acts of
ministry and mission.
57

May 1–8 May 9–15
“Jesus answered him, ‘Those who
love me will keep my word, and
my Father will love them, and we
will come to them and make our
home with them.’”
—John 14:23
“God put this power to work in
Christ when he raised him from the
dead and seated him at his right
hand in the heavenly places.”
—Ephesians 1:20
58
In addition to working among the Afghan community in Fremont, California, one of CBF’s field personnel Fran
Stevenson and her husband Pete are now on the move. Encouraged by Crossroads Church, the Stevensons founded
Mobile Ministries, a missional partnering ministry. In June 2011, Mobile Ministries traveled to Homestead, Florida,
where the Stevensons worked with Open House Ministries, a holistic neighborhood center that provides a free
health clinic, sponsors a 12-step program, provides an emergency food pantry, and runs an after-school program
for children and teenagers. The couple taught classes and took part in Bible studies, sharing stories of Afghan
immigrants, as well as fixed storm doors and electrical failures. Pray that God will keep the Stevensons’ vision
strong and provide wisdom and guidance as they travel to bless other missionaries and develop new relationships.
CBF-endorsed 1st Lt. Chaplain Christina Pittman serves the 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Joint Air Base in
Eastover, South Carolina. The pilots of the F-16 and mission support were recently deployed to Afghanistan
and other assignments overseas. Pray for the airmen returning from deployment as they reintegrate into their
communities, families, and full-time civilian jobs. Pray for the new course, Spiritual Resiliency, and for the Strong
Bonds retreats for airman and their families. Pray for Christina Pittman as she ministers among the mission support
units alongside her chaplain assistants as well as for the three worship services in which she leads music and
frequently preaches. Pray that God will grant her wisdom as she gives support to leadership and brings a religious
perspective.
59

May 16–22 May 23–31
“Very truly, I tell you, the one who
believes in me will also do the
works that I do and, in fact, will do
greater works than these, because I
am going to the Father.”
—John 14:12
“Let love be genuine; hate what is
evil, hold fast to what is good; love
one another with mutual affection;
outdo one another in showing
honor.”
—Romans 12:9–10
60
Wherever you are in the world, parents love their children and long to provide for them. Throughout Kenya, meeting
even basic needs such as nutritious food, clean water, education, and primary health needs is simply out of reach for
many parents. CBF field personnel Melody and Sam Harrell work along with communities in the eight provinces of
Kenya to build sustainable frameworks of community practice that will enable children six years old and under to
have a chance at healthy and happy lives. Pray for these centers and that the people on the ground will be affirmed
in their vision, even though barriers such as drought, disease, and poverty are often harsh realities. Pray also that
the children who benefit will grow strong in joy and find their places of blessing in the world. Visit
www.thefellowship.info/harrell to learn more.
The Clayton community is located outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, and holds diverse groups of people familiar
with Christ and those disenfranchised by the church. Mosaic, a community of believers led by Andy Hale, desires
to create a sense of belonging for all people, whether they are seeking discipleship or have yet to enter into God’s
story. Each week children, students, single adults, couples, and single parents meet for worship, Bible study, softball,
community gardening, and other community groups. Pray that God will move in the Clayton community and that
Mosaic connects with the diverse groups of Clayton as they break ground on an array of new ministry opportunities.
Pray that Mosaic will be faithful and obedient to God’s kingdom vision. For more information on Mosaic, visit
www.mosaicclayton.com.
61

May Birthdays
Month June: Being Title Missional
62
1 Michael Coggins, Navarre, FL (CH)
1 Katherine Higgins, Mint Hill, NC (CH)
1 Bob Whitten, Springfield, VA (PC)
2 Cathy Cole, Aiken, SC (CH)
2 Stephen Murphy, Honolulu, HI (CH)
2 Deborah Reeves, Austin, TX (CH)
2 Matthew Sherin, 2004, Columbia, MO (FPC)
2 Lynn Walker, Chickasha, OK (PLT)
2 Terry Wilson, Mt. Pleasant, SC (CH)
3 Leah Harding, 1992, Orlando, FL (FPC)
4 Johann Choi, Durham, NC (CH)
4 Gary Metcalf, Kingsport, TN (CH)
4 Skip Wisenbaker, Atlanta, GA (CH)
5 Austin, 2004, Thailand (FPC)
5 Jimmy Cole, Spain (FP)
5 Bruce Gourley, Bozeman, MT (PLT)
5 Karen Long, Birmingham, AL (CH)
6 Carol Dalton, Swannanoa, NC (CH)
6 Steve Smith, Liberty, MO (CH)
7 Jennifer Lyon, Atlanta, GA (FP)
7 Dora Saul, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
8 Stanton Cheatham, Madison, MS (CH)
8 Rusty Elkins, Edmond, OK (CH)
8 Bruce Hunter, Troy, VA (PLT)
9 Rich Behers, Lakeland, FL (CH)
9 Evan Bridges, 1995, San Antonio, TX (FPC)
9 David Harding, Orlando, FL (FP)
9 Leigh Jackson, Austin, TX (CH)
10 T.J. Cofield, Princeton, NJ (CH)
10 Jane McKown, Hendersonville, NC (CH)
11 Larry Ballew, China (FP)
11 Robbi Francovich, Emeritus (FP)
11 Jonna Humphrey, Ruther Glen, VA (CH)
11 Cy Miller, Shelby, NC (CH)
12 Charles Admire, Sanford, NC (CH)
13 Tracy Dunn-Noland, Hereford, TX (CH)
13 Samson Naidoo, Garland, TX (CH)
14 Scott McBroom, Charleston, SC (PC)
14 JoAnne Morris, Louisville, KY (CH)
15 Paula Settle, Eastern Kentucky (FP)
16 , daughter, North Africa (FPC)
16 Dewey Bland, Inverness, FL (CH)
16 Steven Harris, Salem, VA (PC)
16 John Reeser, Sautee Nacoochee, GA (CH)
16 Alex Ruble, 2001, Southeast Asia (FPC)
17 Jennifer Call, Salem, VA (CH)
17 Robert Duvall, Lawrenceville, GA (CH)
17 Nell Green, Houston, TX (FP)
17 Filip Zivanov, 1998, St. Louis, MO (FPC)
18 Wayne Hill, Greenville, SC (PC)
18 Ciera Maas, 2003, Belize (FPC)
19 Gwyen Driskill-Dunn, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
19 Becky Schultheiss, Elyria, OH (CH)
20 Micah James, 1994, Haiti (FPC)
20 Julie Perry, Charlottesville, VA (CH)
21 Pat, New Jersey (FP)
21 Laley Norman, 2005, Four Oaks, NC (FPC)
21 Ron Winstead, Emeritus (FP)
22 Jon Ivy, Tuscaloosa, AL (CH)
22 Gabe Lyon, 2005, Atlanta, GA (FPC)
22 Steven Unger, Twenty-nine Palms, CA (CH)
23 Cheryl Adamson, Conway, SC (PLT)
23 Polly Barnes, Brandon, MS (CH)
23 Jared Neal, Atlanta, GA (CH)
23 John Schumacher, Smyrna, GA (CH)
24 Cindy Clark, Philippines (FP)
26 Hunter, Thailand (FP)
26 Valerie Hardy, Loganville, GA (CH)
26 Gerry Hutchinson, Culpeper, VA (CH)
27 James Gilbert, Deville, LA (CH)
27 Nelson Taylor, Richmond, VA (PLT)
28 Hardy Clemons, San Antonio, TX (PC)
28 Laurel Morrow, 1992, Aledo, TX (FPC)
30 Randy Ridenour, Norman, OK (CH)
30 Winston Shearin, Jacksonville, NC (CH)
31 Kelley Woggon, Louisville, KY (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded
you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
—Matthew 28:19–20
It’s a familiar scene for most congregations. A group gathers at church to pray together, board a bus or vans,
and leave for a mission trip experience—with prayers, hugs, and well-wishes from others in the congregation.
The summer months are prime time for mission experiences and for Christ-followers to live out the
imperative of “the Great Commission.” They are opportunities not only to share our faith but also to have our
own faith strengthened and matured.
Capturing God’s dream and seeking to be shaped in the image of Christ, we are compelled to move
outside the walls of the church building and outside ourselves to share God’s love. Opportunities are plentiful
in our communities and around the world. Many congregations partner with CBF field personnel to offer
continuing support for their ministries. They develop relationships and go regularly to share God’s love.
While mission experiences are often seasonal, being “missional” means that we join in God’s dream for
reconciliation and redemption, not just when we are part of a mission experience but whenever and wherever
we have opportunity.
Pray for God to use groups who are “on mission” during this month. Encourage your Sunday school class
or other small group to participate in a hands-on mission experience in your community.
63

June 1–8 June 9–15
“Am I now seeking human
approval, or God’s approval? Or am
I trying to please people? If I were
still pleasing people, I would not be
a servant of Christ.”
—Galatians 1:10
“Happy are those whose help is
the God of Jacob, whose hope is
in the LORD their God, . . . who
executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry. The
LORD sets the prisoners free.”
—Psalm 146:5, 7
64
Habibe is the director and head teacher at the Future of the Family Kindergarten in Skopje, Macedonia. This small
school provides the educational needs of Albanian and Roma children, many of whom have never seen a pencil and
who would not be able to attend public school without the preparation kindergarten provides. Along with a daily hot
meal, 40 children are nurtured each year with learning, love, and understanding. CBF field personnel Arville and
Shelia Earl advocate for the kindergarten and serve among the families changed by its ministry. Pray for Habibe,
that God will provide wisdom and direction as she teaches and leads her students. Pray that these children and their
families will continue to find hope and encouragement in the relationships established through the kindergarten.
Visit www.earlfamily.blogspot.com to learn more.
Zipporah’s heart beats for teenagers. Her family has deep roots in the delta of Phillips County, Arkansas, and has
witnessed the heartaches that exist in this region. Thirty percent of the population lives below the national poverty
line; and of those, 40 percent are under the age of 18. In an area constantly receiving outside aid, Zipporah is
passionate about teaching local youth to serve one another, their community, their state, and their world. She teaches
them to give their time, talent, and energy to God’s creation, even though they have little. Zipporah’s family, along
with church partners and volunteers, is mentoring several young men and hoping to start a construction skills
group. Pray for Zipporah as she continues to build relationships and for Together For Hope, Arkansas, as it resources
Zipporah’s passion for youth and service. To learn more visit www.togetherforhopear.com.
65

June 16–22 June 23–30
“I will instruct you and teach
you the way you should go; I will
counsel you with my eye upon
you.”
—Psalm 32:8
“For you were called to freedom,
brothers and sisters; only do
not use your freedom as an
opportunity for self-indulgence, but
through love become slaves to one
another.”
—Galatians 5:13
66
This year, Fellowship Baptists will gather in Greensboro, North Carolina, for a time of close-knit community and
communion at the 2013 General Assembly. Each summer, the assembly is a formative time of fellowship and
worship, of learning and doing, of renewal and inspiration. Members of the steering committee commit a year of
planning each session, conversation, workshop, speaker, resource and meal that makes up the gathering. Many other
staff members work diligently all year to bring the experience together. Pray for all who travel, serve and plan. Pray
for all who attend, that their encounter with God and others will shape them for continued service where the most
neglected and marginalized see the presence of Christ in the Fellowship Baptists they meet. For more information
visit www.thefellowship.info/Assembly.
For much of its history, Atlanta has nursed the deep wounds of racism and income disparity. Recent gentrification in
Southeast Atlanta has created two parallel communities that often meet only in church, community events, or acts
of crime. In partnership with Park Avenue Baptist Church, CBF field personnel Jen and Trey Lyon minister among
the Grant Park community by supervising a free after-school program for fifth through tenth graders that focuses on
leadership development. In addition, they provide housing for mission teams and mission immersion experiences to
expose and educate congregations about homelessness, poverty, and education. Pray for Jen and Trey as they work to
educate and encourage young leaders. To learn and serve through mission immersion, visit their Web site at
www.urbanvillageministries.org.
67

June Birthdays
Month July: Being TitleAdvocates
68
1 Thong Lun, Houston, TX (CH)
2 John Carter, Nashville, TN (PLT)
2 Susan Hunter, Troy, VA (PLT)
2 Terry Jackson, Lorena, TX (CH)
2 Gary Sparks, Tyler, TX (CH)
3 Susan Arnold, La Grange, KY (CH)
3 Rachel Brunclikova, Czech Republic (FP)
5 Stacy Sergent, Mt. Pleasant, SC (CH)
5 David Smelser, Lucedale, MS (CH)
5 Kody Witt, Raleigh, NC (CH)
6 Erskine Alvis, Black Mountain, NC (CH)
6 Wayne Bruner, Augusta, GA (CH)
6 Linda Cross, San Antonio, TX (FP)
6 Todd DeLaney, Alexandria, VA (CH)
6 Greg McClain, Lillington, NC (CH)
6 Norberto Prado, Oak Ridge, TN (PLT)
7 Kiersten, 2006, Los Angeles, CA (FPC)
7 Diana Place, Tucson, AZ (CH)
7 Butch Stillwell, Candler, NC (CH)
7 Diann Whisnand, McAllen, TX (FP)
8 Larry Lawhon, Front Royal, VA (CH)
8 Janice Newell, Greece (FP)
8 Randy Parks, Sparta, NJ (CH)
8 Clay Porter, Stanton, TX (CH)
8 Joseph Primeaux, Pensacola, FL (CH)
8 Jeromy Wells, Great Falls, MT (CH)
9 Michelle Cayard, China (FP)
9 Richard Poindexter, Indian Trail, NC (CH)
9 Patricia Taylor, Tuscaloosa, AL (CH)
9 Doug Wiggington, Pineville, LA (CH)
10 Rob Edwards, Norfolk, VA (CH)
10 Cindy Goza, Little Rock, AR (CH)
10 Michael Osment, Martin, TN (CH)
10 Kim Wyatt, Canada (FP)
11 Joshua Hearne, Danville, VA (FP)
12 Brady Lanoue, Schertz, TX (CH)
13 Richard Forest, Louisville, KY (CH)
13 Kim Thompson, Columbia, SC (CH)
14 Chaouki Boulos, Lebanon (FP)
14 Tracey Lopez, Springfield, VA (CH)
15 Jack Brown, Dublin, GA (CH)
15 Robbin B. Mundy, Fairview, NC (PLT)
15 Melissa Whaley, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
16 Kimberly Emery, Ovilla, TX (CH)
17 Linda Jones, Winston-Salem, NC (PLT)
18 Bill Hayes, Bogart, GA (CH)
19 Alicia Porterfield, Wilmington, NC (CH)
20 Tim Johns, Swansboro, NC (CH)
20 Jeff Lancaster, Cartwright, OK (CH)
20 Cherry Moore, Bryan, TX (CH)
20 Lonnie Turner, South Africa/Zambia (FP)
21 Jim Cook, Salisbury, NC (CH)
21 Susan Harthon, Indianapolis, IN (CH)
21 Jeff Hoppe, Riverside, PA (CH)
21 Ken Lake, Fort Mill, SC (CH)
21 Adam Page, Kingsport, TN (CH)
22 Kirk, Thailand (FP)
22 Sharon Eldridge, Smithfield, NC (CH)
22 Joanne Henley, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
22 Brenda Lisenby, China (FP)
22 Jessica Prophitt, Palmetto, GA (CH)
23 Andrew, 1998, Thailand (FPC)
23 Sarah Ballew, China (FP)
23 David Lowe, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
23 Helen McNeely, Emeritus (FP)
24 Robert Fulkerson, Tulia, TX (CH)
25 Franklin Duncan, Atlanta, GA (CH)
26 , North Africa (FP)
26 Michael Ferguson, El Paso, TX (CH)
26 Denise Jacks, Birmingham, AL (CH)
26 Kamille Krahwinkel, China (FP)
26 Otto Mazzoni, York, PA (CH)
26 Tim Myrick, Kenya (FP)
27 Roger Dobbins, North Charleston, SC (CH)
27 Alicia Lee, Macedonia (FP)
28 Michael Brainerd, Carlisle Barracks, PA (CH)
28 Mark Judd, Elizabethtown, KY (PLT)
28 Roger Rich, Lexington, SC (CH)
28 Scott Sterling, Whispering Pines, NC (CH)
29 Kevin Adams, Louisville, KY (CH)
29 Jeni Cook, Poquoson, VA (CH)
30 Stan Campbell, Nashville, TN (CH)
30 Margaret Guenther, Richmond, VA (PC)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“He has shown all you people what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.”
—Micah 6:8 TNIV
The local soup kitchen needs canned goods and other supplies. And we fill the boxes at church. Clothes are
needed for the thrift store. And we purge our closets. Donations are requested for a homeless shelter. And we
write generous checks.
These real needs are met from our abundant resources. We act out of mercy and generosity but perhaps
with little sacrifice. It takes a deeper commitment of time and energy to help prepare and serve meals at the
soup kitchen, to work at the thrift store, or to spend a night as a volunteer at a homeless shelter. Face-to-face
contact with those we want to help gives us opportunity to listen to their stories, hopes, dreams, fears, and
challenges. We begin to catch glimpses of the harsh realities of life for those who live on the margins of society.
Many individuals, congregations, and communities express an increasing desire to do more than simply
provide handouts that provide temporary relief. As we learn about the reasons underlying hunger, poverty, and
homelessness, we join with others and work toward long-term solutions and wholeness for all.
This month, do some research regarding bills before Congress that will improve and expand cost-effective
measures to provide hungry people with resources they need to feed their families and earn a living. Write a
letter to your representatives in Congress encouraging them to support these measures. As we participate in
compassionate ministries, let us seek ways to address the justice issues as well.
69

July 1–8 July 9–15
“He said to them, ‘The harvest is
plentiful, but the laborers are few;
therefore ask the Lord of the
harvest to send out laborers into
his harvest.’”
—Luke 10:2
“All the paths of the LORD are
steadfast love and faithfulness, for
those who keep his covenant and
his decrees.”
—Psalm 25:10
Future of the Family Kindergarten in Skopje, Macedonia, serves the poorest Albanian and Roma families in
the community of Cair. These children are socially and economically disadvantaged and face insurmountable
educational challenges. But the kindergarten has become a place of hope for these families that desperately want
their children to succeed in public school and have a better life. Pray for CBF field personnel Alicia and Jeff Lee as
they expand the ministry to include education to children with special needs that are unfairly excluded from society.
Pray for them as they advocate on behalf of the children and families that struggle to meet their daily needs. To learn
more about the Lees and their work in Macedonia, visit www.thelittleleefamily.blogspot.com.
Each July the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship provides a camp-style retreat for the teenage children of field personnel.
These “Third Culture Kids,” also known as TCKs or MKs, look forward to this time of fun and fellowship. When
they come together, they find that their lives are not odd and do not require explanation. They are family to one
another. Through the retreat CBF provides the TCKs with fun as well as a place to ask questions about faith and life.
The retreat is a safe place to play, cry, laugh, and dream. To cap off the week, campers go to Prom, which is the only
one many of the field personnel children will attend in their high school career. Pray that these TCKs grow in their
own faith and identity as they navigate being American by birth but citizens of the world.
70
71

July 16–22 July 23–31
“O LORD, who may abide in your
tent? Who may dwell on your holy
hill? Those who walk blamelessly,
and do what is right, and speak the
truth from their heart.”
—Psalm 15:1-2
“He said to them, ‘When you pray,
say: Father, hallowed be your
name. Your kingdom come.’”
—Luke 11:2
72
Fifty thousand Afghans live in the San Francisco Bay Area, making it the largest concentration of Afghans living
outside of Central Asia. Many are refugees who, having fled their country because of war and persecution, come
to the United States impoverished, hoping to build a better life for their families. CBF field personnel Lita and Rick
Sample mobilize local churches to provide food, meet material needs, teach English and develop friendships with
Afghans. The Samples host Afghan Friendship Gatherings during which Afghans can meet and fellowship with
Christians. Pray for the Afghans, that God would provide for them the things they need and they would be open
to love and serve among their neighbors. Pray for the Samples as they build relationships and minister among the
Afghan residents in the bay area.
Samaritan Ministry estimates that 33 million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS. Addressing the epidemic,
CBF field personnel Nancy and Steve James provide medical care to the HIV/AIDS community in northern Haiti,
where doctors struggle to access medication. In addition, field personnel Fran and Lonnie Turner and Caroline and
Josh Smith ensure the care and education of those affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Africa. In the U.S., Ronnie
Adams serves in New York AIDS service centers offering pastoral care to the AIDS community through support
groups, Bible studies, hospital visitation, and education. Pray for those living with HIV/AIDS as well as the families
who have lost loved ones to AIDS. Pray for the continued work of ministers and field personnel working with the
HIV/AIDS community. To learn more, visit www.thefellowship.info/AIDS.
73

July Birthdays
Month August: Title Being Christ
74
1 Debra Walters, Lawrenceville, GA (CH)
2 Steven Smith, Houston, TX (CH)
3 Nathanael Ballew, 1994, China (FPC)
3 Ken Cook, Pinson, AL (CH)
3 Elizabeth Ellis, Crestwood, KY (PC)
3 Brenda Lee, Williamsburg, VA (CH)
3 Ascanio Peguero, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
4 Rachel Coggins, Navarre, FL (CH)
5 Coy Callicott, Spartanburg, SC (CH)
5 Jeff Fryer, Murfreesboro, TN (CH)
5 Julie Maas, Belize (FP)
5 Amy Moore, Atlanta, GA (CH)
5 Bob Potts, Emeritus (FP)
6 Shelah Acker, Uganda (FP)
6 Sam Harrell, Kenya (FP)
6 Debbie Kubo, Arlington, TX (CH)
6 William Womack, Columbia, MO (CH)
7 Barbara Dail, Greenville, NC (CH)
7 Steven Flowers, Waynesboro, VA (PC)
7 Paulo Orea, 2005, China (FPC)
7 Julie Rowan, Washington, DC (CH)
8 Sherman Buford, Montgomery, AL (CH)
8 Renato Santos, Miami, FL (CH)
8 Steve Sexton, Lenoir City, TN (CH)
8 Robert Summers, Lexington, KY (CH)
9 Miriam Dakin, Lynchburg, VA (CH)
9 Amanda Miller, Spartanburg, SC (CH)
10 Whitney Edwards Russell, Whiteville, NC (CH)
10 Tiffne Whitley, Spain (FP)
11 Allie McNary, 1995, Slovakia (FPC)
11 Steven Shaw, Norfolk, VA (CH)
12 , North Africa (FP)
12 Christopher Morris, Winston-Salem, NC (CH)
12 Stacey Pickering, Laurel, MS (CH)
12 Mark Podgaisky, 1999, Ukraine (FPC)
14 John Deal, Emeritus (FP)
14 Denise Massey, Lilburn, GA (CH)
15 Jean Randolph, Swannanoa, NC (CH)
15 James Tippins, Fernandina Beach, FL (CH)
16 Michelle Greer, Hot Springs National Park, AR (CH)
16 Mark Hart, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX (CH)
17 Caleb, 1996, Thailand (FPC)
17 Wayne Boyd, Gaithersburg, MD (CH)
17 Cindy Meadows, Roanoke, VA (CH)
17 June Pearse, St. Louis, MO (CH)
17 Carolyn Sears, Shelby, NC (CH)
17 Kimberly Sheehan, Nashville, TN (CH)
18 Timothy Hunter, Gatesville, TX (CH)
18 Tom O’Neal, Charlotte, NC (PC)
19 Lyde Andrews, North Charleston, SC (CH)
19 Steven Hill, Knoxville, TN (CH)
19 Jason Pittman, Miami, FL (FP)
20 Errol Simmons, Hattiesburg, MS (CH)
21 , daughter, Turkey (FPC)
21 Peter Arges, Durham, NC (CH)
21 Susan Lanford, Wichita Falls, TX (CH)
21 Twyla Nelson, Jackson Springs, NC (CH)
21 Matthew Pogue, Atlanta, GA (CH)
21 Keith Tekell, Beaumont, TX (CH)
21 Walter White, Arlington, TX (CH)
21 Lavonia Winford, Atlanta, GA (CH)
22 Steve Abbe, Waco, TX (PLT)
22 Dorothy Potts, Emeritus (FP)
22 Bonnie Reedy, Lumberton, NC (CH)
23 Butch Green, Houston, TX (FP)
24 Glynn Ford, Reston, VA (PC)
24 Laurel Link, Winston-Salem, NC (PC)
24 Ronald Oliver, Goshen, KY (CH)
26 Scott Jensen, Saint Joseph, MO (CH)
26 Richard Min, Carrolton, TX (CH)
26 Rick Sample, San Francisco, CA (FP)
26 Erin Spengeman, Richmond, VA (PLT)
27 Diana Bridges, San Antonio, TX (FP)
27 Peter Ott, San Diego, CA (CH)
27 Sandra Smith, Moore, SC (CH)
28 Emily, 2000, Thailand (FPC)
28 Daniel Fairchild, Goldsboro, NC (CH)
29 Michal Patrik Brunclik, 2006, Czech Republic (FPC)
29 Jay McNeal, Richmond, VA (CH)
29 Wayne Morris, Lawton, OK (CH)
29 Karen Morrow, Aledo, TX (FP)
29 Martha Crocker Strong, Olive Branch, MS (PLT)
30 Paul Byrd, Birmingham, AL (CH)
30 James Francovich, Emeritus (FP)
30 Garnett White, Midlothian, VA (PC)
31 Amber Blackwell, Inman, SC (CH)
31 Cindy Thorpe, Greenwood, SC (CH)
31 James Tille, Lakewood, WA (PC)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into
his image with ever-increasing glory which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
—2 Corinthians 3:18 TNIV
We come to the close of a year of praying through the days and months and the seasons of the Christian year.
We have remembered and redreamed God’s dream of hope, peace, joy, and love. We have practiced spiritual
disciplines that help form us in the image of Christ. We have listened to God’s voice calling us to share God’s
love at home and around the world.
James Bryan Smith, in The Good and Beautiful Life, describes what we know as the Sermon on the
Mount (Matt. 5–7) as “the greatest sermon given by the greatest person who ever lived.” In this familiar
passage, which begins with the Beatitudes, Jesus teaches his followers about the kingdom of God and invites us
to join in a vibrant, loving, joy-filled relationship with him.
The seasons of the year often mirror the seasons of our spiritual journey. We capture God’s vision,
practice spiritual disciplines that shape us in the image of Christ so that we can dream along with God, and then
we respond in actions that help transform the world. We learn, we grow, we act, and we are able to do infinitely
more because of God’s Spirit within each of us!
Thank God for the seasons of the year, the seasons of the Christian calendar, and the seasons of your
spiritual life. Pray that you will continue to capture God’s vision for the world. Keep practicing the spiritual
disciplines that shape and form you in God’s image. Pray for opportunities to be the presence of Christ.
75

August 1–8 August 9–15
“So if you have been raised with
Christ, seek the things that are
above, where Christ is, seated at
the right hand of God.”
—Colossians 3:1
“Our soul waits for the LORD; he
is our help and shield. Our heart
is glad in him, because we trust in
his holy name. Let your steadfast
love, O LORD, be upon us, even as
we hope in you.”
—Psalm 33:20–22
76
Missy Ward, one of CBF’s field personnnel, serves as the refugee women’s advocacy coordinator in Kampala,
Uganda, at the Center of Hope. This community center for refugees seeks to share the love of Christ through
community and empower refugees with life skills. As coordinator, she is developing a ministry project that assists
women and girls affected by violence in Kampala based on community advocacy, education, vocational training,
and a temporary shelter. Please pray for safety, healing, and transformation for the hundreds of women and girls in
Kampala who are affected by violence. Pray for Missy as she continues to raise support for her ministry among the
women of Kampala. For more information, visit www.missyinuganda.com.
In 2011, CBF West hosted a block party at Iglesia Bautista Amistad in Douglas, Arizona. The Spanish-speaking
church used this event as an opportunity to connect to its surrounding community. Joseph commented, “This
church has been lonely for the last six months, but today it looked like God was in our hearts.” Pastor Luis said: “We
understand we are not alone in the vision. We understand we are a big family from other places working together.
No matter the language, we are on the same team. When we work together, we can help change people’s lives.” Pray
that God will move in the Douglas community and that residents will be open and receptive to the gospel. Pray for
CBF West as they embrace partnership and continue to create relationships across all boundaries. Visit
www.cbfwest.org to learn more.
77

August 16–22 August 23–31
“Restore us, O LORD God of hosts;
let your face shine, that we may be
saved.”
—Psalm 80:19
“The LORD works vindication and
justice for all who are oppressed.”
—Psalm 103:6
78
Through the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s Member Care and Wellness Program, professional counselors and
health-care providers volunteer their time to keep CBF field personnel and their families physically, emotionally, and
spiritually healthy. They also provide resources when field personnel and their families experience an emergency
or crisis. Pray that our field personnel remember to take time apart for their own prayer and study as they share
God’s love with others. Pray that they find rest so they can continue to serve, to play, and to work. Pray also for the
volunteers who walk faithfully with CBF field personnel in this process.
Rina worked in an open-air market selling vegetables, and Norita worked as a maid cleaning houses. Both girls came
to Malaysia with dreams of earning money and helping their families, but both became trapped in modern-day
slavery. Both worked 16-hour days, seven days a week without freedom. Rina had not been paid in over a year. She
ran away five times and each time was brought back and beaten. Norita said nothing but bore burn marks on her
arm. Approximately 2.4 million people are victims of human trafficking worldwide and are illegally traded for the
purpose of forced labor. Pray that God and the church will empower CBF field personnel who work to fight human
trafficking. Pray for the recovery of the victims. Join the anti-trafficking effort by connecting with the CBF Justice
and Peacemaking Mission Community. Access human trafficking resources at www.cbfinternationals.org.
79

August Birthdays
80
1 Steven Safreed, Fayetteville, GA (CH)
1 Stephen Saunders, Live Oak, TX (CH)
2 Mike Beach, Knoxville, TN (CH)
3 Mina Podgaiskaya, Ukraine (FP)
3 Scott Uzzel, Marietta, GA (CH)
3 Mary Ellen Yates, Louisville, KY (PC)
4 Hannah, 1999, Thailand (FPC)
4 Mark Pruitt, Martinsburg, WV (CH)
4 Diane Stamey, Clyde, NC (PC)
4 Matthew Wysocki, Fort Gordon, GA (CH)
5 Mary, Thailand (FP)
5 Susan Allen, Midway, KY (CH)
5 John Henson, Shreveport, LA (PLT)
5 Ronald Howard, Tuscaloosa, AL (CH)
5 Donald Lederer, Indian Trail, NC (CH)
5 John Oliver, Durham, NC (CH)
6 Larry Hamm, Greenwood, IN (CH)
6 Deborah Jenkins, Novato, CA (CH)
7 Merrie Harding, Orlando, FL (FP)
7 Vernon Westenbroek, Columbia, MO (CH)
8 Janée Angel, Belgium (FP)
8 Ellen Holmes, 1992, Europe (FPC)
8 Robin Robinson, Spring, TX (CH)
8 Jon Wyatt, 1995, Canada (FPC)
9 Elizabeth Sample, 1998, San Francisco, CA (FPC)
10 Dawn Hood-Patterson, Fort Worth, TX (CH)
10 Elliott Sample, 2004, San Francisco, CA (FPC)
10 Nicholas Wright, Waco, TX (CH)
11 Robbie Byrd, Fayetteville, NC (PC)
11 Justin Murphy, Leesburg, FL (CH)
11 John Norman, Four Oaks, NC (FP)
11 Karen Rector, Mayport, FL (CH)
11 Robert Townsend, Nathalie, VA (CH)
13 Clyde Angel, Indianapolis, IN (CH)
13 Rodney Bolejack, Denton, TX (CH)
13 Thomas Dougherty, Mechanicsville, VA (PC)
13 Cathy Hollon, Union Springs, AL (CH)
13 Wayne Maberry, Alturas, FL (CH)
13 Johnny Taylor, Plano, TX (CH)
14 Maurice Graham, Richmond, VA (PC)
14 Roy Moritz, Elizabeth City, NC (CH)
15 Daniel Shadix, Prattville, AL (CH)
16 Don McNeely, Emeritus (FP)
17 Joe Moffitt, Wetmore, CO (CH)
17 Susan Rogers, Jacksonville, FL (PLT)
17 Anna Sample, 2001, San Francisco, CA (FPC)
18 Ben Craver, Albuquerque, NM (CH)
18 Fran Stevenson, Fremont, CA (FP)
18 Brickson Sam, Charlotte, NC (PLT)
19 Kaela Ruble, 1998, Southeast Asia (FPC)
20 Joyce Cleary, Emeritus (FP)
20 Reid Doster, Madisonville, LA (PLT)
20 Jim Ivey, New Albany, IN (CH)
20 Barbara Marshall, Petersburg, VA (CH)
21 Inetta Taylor-Shuetz, Lubbock, TX (CH)
21 Alice Tremaine, Corbin, KY (CH)
22 Doug Brown, Franklin, IN (CH)
22 Daniel Hix, Maryville, TN (CH)
22 Ana Podgaiskaya, 2001, Ukraine (FPC)
23 Mike Bumgarner, Norman, OK (CH)
23 Keith Little, New Bern, NC (CH)
23 Allen Williams, Cross Cut, TX (FP)
23 Richard Woodall, Memphis, TN (CH)
23 Marc Wyatt, Canada (FP)
24 Timothy Boschen, Waynesboro, VA (CH)
24 Craig Klempnauer, Hewitt, TX (CH)
25 Arville Earl, Macedonia (FP)
25 Robert McMillan, Oklahoma City, OK (CH)
26 Cindy Ruble, Southeast Asia (FP)
27 Carson Cole, 2001, Spain (FPC)
27 Jim Kirkendall, Biloxi, MS (CH)
27 Randall Walton, Lynchburg, VA (CH)
27 Verr Dean Williams, Cross Cut, TX (FP)
28 Hattie Jackson-Harris, Montevallo, AL (PLT)
29 Pam Foster, Haslet, TX (CH)
30 , son, North Africa (FPC)
30 Christiana Liem, Houston, TX (CH)
30 Karen Sherin, Columbia, MO (FP)
31 Karr La Dickens, Dallas, TX (FP)
31 Michael Pimpo, Grayslake, IL (PLT)
31 Cecelia Walker, Montgomery, AL (CH)
CH = Chaplain
FP = Field Personnel
PLT = Church Planter
FPC = Child of Field Personnel
PC = Pastoral Counselor