Ministry Update – Philippians Series, Volunteers, Outreach, Young Adult Meeting

We are continuing our study in the book of Philippians. So far, we have made it through the first two verses in four sermons. We will not progress so slowly in the future, but I felt it appropriate to teach on pastors (“bishops”) and deacons the last two Sundays. I am hoping that the Lord may allow us to appoint some deacons sometime soon.

I am continually amazed at how willing the folks of Downham Baptist are to serve and to volunteer in the church. After the service today, we had training days for the crèche workers and the stewards and greeters. Many people had good ideas about how we can be more friendly, more effective, and work together more fully as a body.

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to do some door-to-door evangelism in our community. It was good to chat with several local people including an older gentleman who is a Jehovah’s witness. I am grateful to share some of the gospel with him, and for one new lady who visited the church today after having received a leaflet a few months ago.

This year, we did not have enough adult helpers to run our normal Friday youth meeting for all ages, so this year we are meeting more informally with the older young people (ages 15 and older). That has been a lot of fun the last two weeks. I am encouraged with what the Lord is doing in their lives, and I enjoy hanging out with them each Friday. This past week, we looked at Ecclesiastes 1 and the vanity of everything without God.