From your Chaplains, Chapel Parish and Chapel Staff!

See you at PWOC Kick Off - 6 Jan/ 6:30 p.m./ Bldg 136

I Need a Silent Night

I pray you are able to have many "silent nights" during this season and throughout the year. I love the message of this song. I've been blessed with several silent nights this month, as I wait on God for my new personal "word/direction " of 2009.

Yep, a cross post from my personal blog. ::snort::

3rd Sunday in Advent - The Shepherd’s Candle

This child, this babe wrapped in swaddling clothes who was both The Shepherd and The Lamb, was born in the shadow of the cross.

"And in that region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And the angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them...And they went with haste, and found...the babe lying in the manger... And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen...(Luke 2:8-9, 16, 20)"

The Savior had been born. The Messiah, the Christ, had come into the world. The One who carried the hopes of all mankind had arrived. Indeed the shepherds probably understood very little of the glorious meaning of His coming. But there was a certain kinship between the shepherds and Jesus. This child was the Great Shepherd who came to give His life for His sheep, yes, to give His life for the sins of the world. This child, this babe wrapped in swaddling clothes who was both The Shepherd and The Lamb, was born in the shadow of the cross.

It is fitting that the announcement of the Lord’s birth should be given to shepherds. The imagery of sheep and shepherds is repeated many times in the scripture. With this in mind, the following meditations call attention to the imagery of Christ being both the Shepherd and the Lamb.

Monday – John 10:11-15 “I am the Good Shepherd…”
Tuesday – John 1:29-31 “Behold the Lamb of God…”
Wednesday – Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd....
Thursday – I Peter 1:18-21 …a lamb without blemish or spot…
Friday – I Peter 2:24-25 For you…have now returned to the Shepherd…Saturday –Rev 5:1-10 “…I saw a Lamb…”

©2007 M.E.G.

*Note this is written and shared by our PWOC Chaplain Advisor/GAFB'S Sr. Protestant Chaplain (Maj) Michael Goecker.

Quick Glimpse of Conference

Here's a quick glimpse of conference for those who were unable to attend.

Second Sunday in Advent - The Bethlehem Candle

They told him, "in Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: 'And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah: for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.'" (Matt. 2:5-6)

The name "Bethlehem" literally means House of Bread. It was not one of the great cities of the world. It was not even one of the great cities of Israel. It was, in fact, one of the smaller cities. It was known as the "City of David" because it was the home of King David. He was the youngest of eight brothers, the shepherd boy, and the son of a man named Jesse. He was not known for anything, but it is in the wisdom of God that He would select an unknown to be king. It is also in the wisdom of God that He would not choose a great city such as Rome or even Jerusalem as the place the Christ would enter into the world. It was not in a great palace that the King of kings would come. It was not even in the home of a peasant. Instead, the Creator entered into His creation at the little town of Bethlehem, through a virgin named Mary, as a babe lying in a manger.

God constantly uses the littlest and the least to demonstrate His power and faithfulness. The following Scripture readings emphasize this characteristic attitude of God.

Monday - I Cor 1:25-30... God chose what is weak...

Tuesday - Phil 2:5-11 ...but being born in the likeness of men...

Wednesday - II Cor 12:7-10...for when I am weak...

Thursday - Luke 9:45-48...for he who is least..

Friday - Isaiah 9:6-7 ...For to us a child is born, to us a son is given...

Saturday - Luke 1:7 ...and laid Him in a manger...

©2007 M.E.G.

*Note this is written and shared by our PWOC Chaplain Advisor/GAFB'S Sr. Protestant Chaplain (Maj) Michael Goecker.

One More Reason to Attend

Yummm.....join us on 6 December from 1 - 3 and sample this little gem.

We'd love to have visit with you! More information is posted about the tea below this post.

DELIGHT IN THE LIGHT

Take time at the start of this busy Christmas season to celebrate Christ as the Light of the World.

WHAT: Annual Christmas Tea

WHEN: 6 December from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: De'Etta's home (address in Protestant News or email for directions)

BRING:

• a WRAPPED ornament if you would like to participate in an OPTIONAL ornament exchange.
• a tea time or Christmas goody to share

Please RSVP for a general count to De’Etta (949-7184).

NO DECEMBER PROJECT NIGHT

Ladies, I talked with Debbie this morning at church and want to get the word out that there will be NO PROJECT night in December.

Debbie is working on some plans to kick-off next year's Project Nights in January. Stay tuned for details.

All- Time FAVORITE Inductive Advent Study

We've used THIS study for years in our home. I love it. There are coloring sheets for young ones to color. Older students and adults can skip the coloring and do the study on their own. I plan to give the coloring sheets to the young ones as we discuss the week's lesson.

It's meaty, but doable. I would love to print it up for all, but since I'm a bit behind schedule, I'm going to post the link to the FREE download and you can save it and print it out for your family.

Let me know how you use it in your family and what you think. Some years, I've used it for a personal study.

Table Talk - Luke 10:25-37

Bible Study Resumes 2 December! - We'll be discussing Lesson 8 briefly and spending a majority of our time with a Table Talk on Luke 10:25-37.

Ladies, here are a few tips to help you prepare for our Table Talk discussion on Luke 10:25-37. Have fun with this. You are digging out the jewels of the passage alone with God and His word. You can do this!

*Re-read the passage daily until Tuesday. This will work best if you work on it a bit each day. This gives the passage time to "grow on you". It gives you time to meditate on what you are learning. It's o.k. to read ahead and behind the "official" passage. ::snort::

*We begin with OBSERVATION. Don't try to be deep. Answer the easily observed questions. Look for Who, What, Where, When, Why and How questions and answers. Let Scripture interpret Scripture. Jot your questions and answers down on the paper provided, be sure to include the Scripture reference for ease of our discussion. It's FINE to have questions to which you don't find answers. We'll talk about what to do with those pesky questions on Tuesday. You may WANT to make lists of key characters - you may not. Your choice. Do what helps YOU understand the text. Do not RUSH observation to jump to interpretation and application. This is ESPECIALLY important when studying a passage such as this that is familiar to us and often preached about.

*When you are familiar with the text, check some cross references - for instance "Samaritans" - Matt.10:5 - 6, Luke 9:51-57, John 4. Look up "Samaritan" in a concordance (check the tools in the side bar). Jot down any insights you gain into Samaritan....you could do this with any character or question in the passage.

*Do word studies on any word that catches your eye. Often this is the Holy Spirit leading you to an area where you will adjust your understanding of a passage or make a specific application to your life.

*We move on to Interpretation. Take all the easily observed facts, the cross references you've studied, the thoughts the Holy Spirit has quickened as you study, and answer the question, "What does this mean?". What did this mean in the culture, what did it mean to the listeners....?

*The final step for our Table Talk is Application. "What does this mean to ME?" Application is bound to happen daily as you are in the word. It doesn't have to follow step one and two...but as you lay a firm foundation of observation and interpretation, your applications will come clear.

Click here to see more helps for our Proverbs study.

Workers Together for Christ

Hmmm....Did you know that was our PWOC International motto? We exist under the leadership of the local chapel. One of our aims (there are 4 - check 'em out in the sidebar) is to "involve women in Chapel ministries".

This past weekend several PWOC members lived out our motto.

Saturday morning Emma joined De'Etta, Chaplain Goecker and Jared to prepare a hearty breakfast for all who were coming to clean and decorate the chapel for Advent. Those men can really flip those flapjacks. ::snort::

After cleaning up the kitchen, Emma, De'Etta and Chaplain Goecker spruced up the Fellowship Hall for Sunday's Unity Service.

It turned out to be GOOD that all the decorating was finished on Saturday. Flexibility would prove to be key on Sunday. Gas fumes and the Fire Marshall drove the 1000 service from the Chapel. We had our Unity Service in the Fellowship Hall.

Cheryl, Debbie and Emma pitched right in, working around worshippers and dealing with all manner of surprises. Thanks, ladies! As I pulled up with chicken and saw all the people sitting at tables in the Fellowship Hall, my heart sank. When I was told you three were in the kitchen, I knew it was all under control.

The picket fences and pumpkins were so cute we decided to leave them for Wednesday night's Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service and Pie Social. Thanks to Joyce and Dave Moore who helped take apart all the cute decorations which served us well this week.

Working together the load is light - and fun! Thanks to all for all you do to help the chapel continue its mission.

Shoe Boxes!

Amidst gas fumes and potlucks, the good folk of Goodfellow AFB collected ninety-eight shoe boxes. Huh? Why? What are they going to do with 98 shoe boxes? Did you miss this?

These little boxes were filled with gifts, notes and such for children around the world. They're now on their way to NC where they'll be secured and sent to children around the world. Thanks to all who participated in Operation Christmas Child. It proved, once again, to be a fun project for all ages!

NO BIBLE STUDY TONIGHT

We are taking a week off during this Thanksgiving week.

Join us at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall (bldg 136) next Tuesday, 2 Dec. We'll be discussing lesson 8.

If you've been meaning to join us and haven't made it, we'd LOVE to have you pop in!

Our study of Proverbs will conclude on 9 Dec.

Project Night THIS Friday Night

Remember to RSVP to Debbie or De'Etta if you plan on attending this month. Project Nights are cancelled if there are no RSVPs.

Where: Fellowship Hall - Bldg 136

When: 5:00 pm - midnight (come when you can), 21 Nov

Bring: Project to work on (no supplies will be on sale or provided)
Brown Bag Dinner (or grab BK or Subway - some of us will walk over to Subway)
Munchie to share - if you'd like

What: Project night is an adult only evening to work on the project of our choice. Come when you can and stay as long as your schedule allows. If you would like to attend but NEED a project....contact Debbie (email in side bar).

Projects that have been worked on in the past: scrapbooking, Christmas letters, Valentine cards, stamping, card making, quilting, mending.......all work on their OWN project. This is not a class, unless advertised as such.

This is usually held on the 2nd Friday night of the month. Our next night is scheduled for 12 December. POC Debbie.

Collecting all Shoe Boxes ~ 17 Nov - 24 Nov

Woot! The word is that 1800 boxes have been collected at the local drop off point. That's NEARING the 2000 boxes that were given last year. We are on track to double our boxes this year.

If you have a shoe box that needs to be dropped off, you may leave it at the Crossroad Student Center, the chapel during any service on 23 Nov, the chapel office during duty hours, the Fellowship Hall (bldg 136) Friday night between 5 p.m. - midnight or simply get it to De'Etta before Sunday. You may also take it directly to Christian Church of San Angelo, 4064 S Bryant Blvd/ (800)798-7949, by 24 Nov.

This is a fun project. Some have asked if any certain age gets less boxes - older boys and girls. Some have asked if they can fill a box if they don't have $7 for postage - YES. I know that Samaritan's Purse has sent out requests for people to send in money to cover this scenario. YES, you may pay your postage online rather than sliding a check in your box, click here for directions.

Get involved. You'll bless a child and be blessed yourself in the process.

2008-2010 PWOC International Board

We are home! I realize I've not updated for two weeks....a whirlwind week to prepare for conference and a week in Dallas....but I'm BaaaaaaaaCK. ::snort::

I thought I'd share a quick glimpse of the Conference. There will be more photos (as they come in) posted on the Central Region Blog.

Sunday's installation service of the new PWOC International Board was beautiful. The outgoing board members passed their mantels of leadership to the new board members. They were then given a prayer mantle to signify their commitment to pray for the new board.

Some of the outgoing board

2008-20010 PWOC International Board

Brenda Marlin (President)

Lucia Rossman (1st Vice President - Spiritual Development)

Cinky Jones (2nd Vice President - Leadership Development

Melinda Hemphill (3rd Vice President - Communication Coordinator)

Join me in praying for our new board as they begin to choose their teams and transition into their new positions of leadership.

We're Off

Chaplain Goecker and several ladies from our group will be traveling to Dallas for the PWOC International Conference. Please pray for safe travels. Pray for open hearts and minds as we attend workshops, worship and listen to the keynote speaker.

Pray for the selection committees as they select the InternationalPWOC Board for the next two years.

If you want to read more about the conference check out the Central Region Blog. I can't promise but there may be blogs from the conference throughout the weekend.

Calling all Breakfast Divas....

The annual Chapel Clean-up and Decorating extravaganza will be 22 November.

PWOC will be providing breakfast at 8:00 a.m. for those who care to come early and eat. If you'd like to help by serving, making muffins, a fruit tray, a breakfast casserole....contact De'Etta.

Then, join us on the 23rd of November for a Unity Service at 1000 in the Base Chapel (across from the BX).

No Bible Study Tonight!

Enjoy your family day. Happy Veteran's Day.

We will meet again next Tuesday, 18 Nov and discuss Lesson 7.

(Yes, I was supposed to fly out early this a.m. but my flight was cancelled. I'll leave this afternoon.)

Pack a Shoe Box!

The chapel will have two drop off dates for Operation Christmas Child Shoe Boxes. You may bring your box to any service on 16 and 23 November You may also drop of your boxes at The Crossroad Student Center. If you do not attend chapel you may drop your box(es) off at my house (De'Etta). I will make sure it gets to the proper spot.

We have a lot of fun with this project. Last year we all went shopping and we all had creative ideas (flashlights/batteries/pumps/basketballs)....this year money is tighter. I took the younger ones to the Dollar Tree and we found a lot of fun things to pack:backpacks, stickers, purses, ballas, teddy bears, hair things, cars, socks......

We make Shoe Box night a fun Family Night. Here are a few glimpses of our assembly line.

Two footballs? How about one and some other things, Stacia?

Click here to find directions to pack a shoe box. We still plan to make a coloring page for each box. This is really more than a coloring page - it's a letter from you to the child who will receive your box.

We had a blast filling boxes. It's become an anticipated family tradition.

"Work" Verses

Below are New Testament verses on “Man’s Work” and/or God’s interaction with Man’s Work (KJV). This is posted as a resource for those of you who are studying Proverbs on Tuesday Night. You can find more Proverb's Study Helps here.


Mar 13:34 [For the Son of man is] as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.

Luk 13:14 And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.

Jhn 4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. And Jhn 9:4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

Jhn 6:28 - 30 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?

Jhn 17:4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

1Cr 3:13 - 15 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

1Cr 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

2Cr 9:8 And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work:

Gal 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

Phl 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ:

Col 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

1Th 1:3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

1Th 4:11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

2Th 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

2Th 3:12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

1Ti 5:10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

2Ti 2:21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, [and] prepared unto every good work.

Hbr 6:10 For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

1Pe 1:17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:

Rev 22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

PRAYER ENCOURAGEMENT

Below is a prayer encouragement sent out by our regional Prayer Coordinator.

Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way. Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you. 1 Samuel 12:23-24

Ladies,

Our PWOCI International Conference is only ten days away! I have been in prayer for you as you anticipate the great things that will happen during this special time that has been set aside to meet with the Lord.

There are several things for which we need to devote special prayer. There is a formal International Conference prayer calendar, but as a local leader, these are some specifics the Lord has laid on my heart to share with you.

First, please be in prayer for the selection process. The selection committee will meet with ladies who are feeling a call to international leadership. Please pray that they will be blessed during the selection process, and that they will not make any decisions until they are SURE they have heard from the Lord. Also, please pray for the ladies who will be meeting with the committee, in answer to the Lord’s leading. Pray that they will be willing to join the Lord in His work, in whatever capacity He places them.

Next, pray for the worship leader and the speaker. They are coming willing to lead us to the heart of God. Pray that their words, whether spoken, or sung, will be truthful, and filled with grace. Pray that the Lord would bless them as well, as they minister to us.

Lastly, be praying for the ladies from your installation as they attend the International Conference. They may think they are attending to have a really great time with friends (and I hope they do), but more importantly, they need to meet with the Lord. Pray that they will go willing to receive all that the Lord has planned for them. PWOC International Conference is a time when the Lord works in hearts to teach, to purify, to unburden, to confirm, to affirm, and to unify. I pray that you see evidence of these things happening as you watch the ladies in your group.

I will not be attending International Conference this year because of a significant family commitment, but I will be praying for you and look forward to hearing what great things the Lord has done in you!”

With great anticipation,

Kristin (Central's Prayer Coordinator)

Father, Thank you for the opportunity to set aside time with you and with our sisters. We ask that you would show us how to pray in preparation for Fall Focus, and that we would be amazed with how you answer. We love you, and we thank you for Jesus, who is the reason we do what we do. Amen.

Yes, We're Having Bible Study Tonight

We plan to begin PROMPTLY at 6:30 p.m. and finish at 7:30 p.m. so that you can get home to watch election results.

We'll be discussing Lesson 6.

Take note of the new page in the side bar under "Our Page" titled Proverbs: Study Helps. I've put helpful links in one spot for you. You'll also find info I compose for some of the "digging deeper" questions linked here. AFTER we discuss the lesson.

Health Updates!

Bobbie Jo is home and recuperating well. She thanks us for our concern, but has meals well in hand. I think she exlempfies this week's lesson from Proverbs.

GE, Pat's husband, had Triple By-Pass Surgery on Thursday. Please continue to pray for these two PWOC Sisters and their families during these times with "health challenges".

Sharing His Love in the Heartland

The motto of PWOCI Central Region is "Sharing His Love in the Heartland". It is also the title of our new regional blog. Hop on over and check it out. Some of you will recognize yourself in a few shots. The graphic in our sidebar will always take you to the site if you forget the URL.

Our goal is for the blog to be an "informational tool," as well as a "relationional tool." We'll have photos and blurbs of activities from various installations. We'll have contact info for the board and each installation in our region. We'll also ask questions to gather your input, share advice...We hope others will begin to send their photos, their questions, their tips...all to be the foundation of future blog entries.

This is one more way your Board is working to build connection, relationship and ministry in Central Region. Visit and get involved.

November Bible Study Schedule

Our Bible Study schedule this month is a bit out of the norm due to Holidays and such.

4 Nov - YES, we will meet. Vote early. Our prayers are with Emma and Ivey as they help to man the local polls. We will be discussing Lesson 6 - "Get Organized".

11 Nov - This is a Command Family Day, enjoy Veteran's Day with your family. Be in prayer for De'Etta as she travels today, and all our ladies as they prepare to leave on Thursday for PWOCI Conference.

18 Nov - YES we'll have Bible Study. We will be discussing Lesson 7 - "Word Power".

25 Nov - Thanksgiving Break - see you at the Pie Social on 26th Nov.

Remember, there is a calendar at the bottom of this blog with our PWOC calendar kept up to date.

SURPRISE!

So....what do you think of the new fall look? I'm pretty happy to break out of the box. ::snort::

I've moved the calendar to bottom for the time being. In the template change it GREW. I'll play with it later.

Tuesday night ladies: If you are looking for the "One Another" list scroll down to Saturday.

Women's Day Out!

Saturday, we converged at The Pottery Ranch for a DAY OUT! All the ingredients of a successful day out were present: PWOC Sisters, music, conversation....come to think of it the CHOCOLATE was missing. ::snort::

"PWOC" DINNERS

I admitted to Wendy that most often my family has "yoyo" (Your On Your Own) on PWOC nights.

I'd like to change that. It would be fun to create a page with quick recipes and link it in the sidebar. These could be great for Tuesday Night, Project Night, Ladies Nights Out, or for when you're at CONFERENCE in November.

Now, I KNOW what will work....I simply haven't been doing it. ::snort::

Would you leave a comment with your favorite quick dinners listed? Include recipes if the recipe is what makes it quick. If you know my personal email address that will be best to email recipes to - or you could email recipes to gafbpwocpres@yahoo.com - I don't check it as often but it works.

I'll compile the list and any recipes sent and link it in the side bar.

One Another

What does it mean to live in community? How are Christians to interact with one another? In our study of Proverbs this week we seek to answer a few of these questions. Here is a list I discovered from simply typing “one another” into the search engine at Blue Letter Bible (linked under our study links in the side bar). I left out references that seemed to have nothing to do with community. Remember, that a list like this does not display context. If something seems hard to understand – go read a few chapters before and after the reference. The danger of a list like this is “proof texting” – using a verse to prove our point of view.

I plan to prayerfully use this list to evaluate MYSELF and my relationships within the Body of Christ. Where am I doing well? Where can I improve? Do my relationships in the Body of Christ reflect His heart for His children? If not, I must get in line with His Word. Feel free to comment below on any of these “one another” principles; or come prepared to share at Bible Study. (As an aside, I’ll print this list up to hand out at PWOC.) I used the NIV as that is the translation our current Bible Study uses.


Lev 19:11 NIV - " 'Do not steal. " 'Do not lie. " 'Do not deceive one another.

Jdg 20:22 NIV - But the men of Israel encouraged one another and again took up their positions where they had stationed themselves the first day.

Zec 7:9 NIV - "This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.

Mal 2:10 NIV - Have we not all one Father*? Did not one God create us? Why do we profane the covenant of our fathers by breaking faith with one another?

Many instances of discussing things together – here are a couple of examples
Mar 8:16 NIV - They discussed this with one another and said, "It is because we have no bread."

Luk 6:11 NIV - But they were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Luk 8:25 NIV - "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."

Jhn 5:44 NIV - How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God*?

Jhn 13:14 NIV - Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.

Jhn 13:22 NIV - His disciples stared at one another, at a loss to know which of them he meant.

Jhn 13:34 NIV - "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. Jhn 13:35 NIV - By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Act 2:12 NIV - Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"

Rom 12:10 NIV - Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Rom 12:16 NIV - Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.* Do not be conceited.

Rom 13:8 NIV - Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.

Rom 14:13 NIV - Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.

Rom 15:7 NIV - Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

Rom 15:14 NIV - I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another.

Rom 16:16 NIV - Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.

1Cr 1:10 NIV - I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.

1Cr 16:20 NIV - All the brothers here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

2Cr 13:12 NIV - Greet one another with a holy kiss.

Gal 5:13 NIV - You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature*; rather, serve one another in love.

Eph 4:2 NIV - Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Eph 4:32 NIV - Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Eph 5:19 NIV - Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord,

Eph 5:21 NIV - Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Col 3:13 NIV - Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Col 3:16 NIV - Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

1Th 5:11 NIV - Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Tts 3:3 NIV - At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.

Hbr 3:13 NIV - But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
Hbr 10:24 NIV - And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

Hbr 10:25 NIV - Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Jam 4:11 NIV - Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.

1Pe 1:22 NIV - Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.*

1Pe 3:8 NIV - Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

1Pe 4:9 NIV - Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

1Pe 5:5 NIV - Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."*

1Pe 5:14 NIV - Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

1Jo 1:7 NIV - But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all* sin.

1Jo 3:11 NIV - This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

1Jo 3:23 NIV - And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us.

1Jo 4:7 NIV - Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

1Jo 4:11 NIV - Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

1Jo 4:12 NIV - No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

More devotionals can be read here.

Why Vote?

I love my right to vote.

I grew up in countries where citizens have not always had the freedom to vote. Liberia, West Africa.....Philippine Islands under President Marcos.

Years later I was blessed to live in my Grams' hometown. Mike was a minister. I remember many fond afternoons with Grams (went to heaven at the young age of 93). Grams loved to tell the girls and I all about the days when she, as an American woman was NOT allowed to vote. Her passion carried in her voice all those years later. She remembered the first election in which women were allowed to participate. She vowed then and there to vote each and every time the polls were opened. She did. As she aged, driving became hard. I would pick her up and drive her to the polls in the small town where she lived - pop 2700. The poll workers loved to see us coming. I would bring my daughters (6, 4 when this began) to the polls as well. My Uncle and her friends would tease us. It was well-known that our votes would most likely cancel each other's out. That did not matter. We were exercising a hard won right. We voted. We were also passing on the value of voting to another generation.

We have the freedom and the honor to go to our polling places and vote without free of intimidation or recrimination.

I know it is sometimes difficult as miliatary families to get all the "paperwork" in order to vote....but it is so very important. Please take time this year to pray about and then get out and vote.

I thought of Grams this year as I voted...via absentee ballot.

I thought of her legacy when both our older daughters called to share that they were registered to vote (one in AK and one in WA). I think of her legacy when our sons thrill to political discussion.

Happy Voting - whether that be via local polls or absentee ballot.

The Pottery Ranch

Reward yourself for adapting so adeptly to your new fall schedule!

Join us for October's Women's Day Out. PWOC visits The Pottery Ranch on 25 Oct. from 10:30 – noon!

Your price will vary according to the piece you pick. There will be some "TX" type projects you can complete, along with anything else your heart desires.

Instruction and ideas will be available. Enjoy a few hours out with your PWOC friends.

RSVP by 20 Oct. to Debbie @gafbpwocvp@yahoo.com

Need a map?
I know, I know - you aren't crafty! Well....neither am I (De'Etta) and I'm going to be there! C'mon out and have some fun with us!

Don't Miss Out!

October's Project Night!

Join us in the Fellowship Hall on 10 October.

Doors open at 5 p.m. and will close when you are through (or at mid-night).

This is not a craft class. Bring the project of your choice.

This month we request that you bring your own brown bag dinner, and a munchie to share. This is an adult only evening. RSVP to Debbie @ gafbpwocvp@yahoo.com

LOOK WHAT A PCS TO TX WILL DO TO YOU!

I love this photo of Rachel and she has given permission for it to be published. It took a few months. During our June road trip to Fredericksburg, Rachel shared that her friends teased her about turning into a cowboy when she got orders to Texas. I couldn't resist snapping this photo of her in a pink cowboy hat, with a tiara no less.

Rachel's shifts have kept her from joining us much this fall - but join us when you can Rachel!

Our Redeemer Lives

Here's a little treat for those who have been studying Kinsman/Redeemer the last few weeks....and for any others who happen to see this.


Doesn't the song come alive as you consider all the duties, responsibilities and rights of a Kinsman/Redeemer? I pray that your study these past three weeks has breathed new life, excitement and awe into your relationship with Jesus Christ. Bless you for the committment you made to be women of the Word.

We'll be discussing our first lesson of Proverbs next Tuesday night. Contact De'Etta if you need to pick up a manual. We'd love to have you join us.

#1 Way to Know You've Recently PCS'd?

We discovered THE sure fire way to tell if a woman has just pcsd on Friday night!

Can you tell what this is? Tammy opened her bobbin box to find a jumbled mess. She recovered and went on to mend several uniform shirts, shorts, and make several throw pillows.

All that while I simply tore photos out of an album. Hmmm...

Remember, Project Nights are held the 2nd Friday night of most months. You can work on any project you desire...or simply sit and visit. Our next Project Night is 10 Oct.

EDEN IS NOT GOING TO DALLAS ALONE!

Eden will have two traveling companions on her trip to the International Conference. I am NOT one of them as I will be going up a few days early. Can you guess the other two travellers?

Guess right at Bible Study and you may win some chocolate! ::snort::

KUDOS for One of our Own!

Our very own, Ivey, is in the news again! Did you catch the story? I've looked for links but can't find them as of yet. Ivey volunteers with many organizations around town. This week she was recognized by KLST, Channel 5, for her work with the Sheriff's - oh I'm going to slaughter the name - Ivey is a first responder to situations where women have experienced or are in danger of violence. Ivey is their volunteer of the week!

Way to go Ivey! You inspire us.

Eden is going to Dallas!

Eden is our first lady to have registration and money turned in for the International Conference. Will you be next? Check out the sidebar for more info. Contact Debbie (gafbpwocvp@yahoo.com) or De'Etta (gafbpwocpres@yahoo.com) if you have questions or would like to attend.

TODAY is the dealine to contact us. We want to help you attend, if you are feeling tugged to do so.

Will you join Eden in Dallas?

Whine or Shine!

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that you will prove yourselves to be a blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I (Paul) will have reason to glory because I (Paul) did not run in vain nor toil in vain.” Phil 2:14-16

I call the above verses my “whine or shine” verses. Our reactions to responsibilities, circumstances, crises will determine how we are perceived in the world. Do we whine? Do we grumble and dispute? If so, we’ll appear like the rest of our generation.

Do we want to shine in the midst of our generation? Then we simply must decide not to whine. We will begin to shine in our generation as we walk out Paul’s command. We will draw men to HIM because we will stand out…we will reflect His glory.

Join me this week in making a stand to shine and not whine!

De’Etta

To read more devotionals click here.

DALLAS - ARE YOU READY?

What is holding you back from attending the International Conference. Check the side bar for information.

If you'd LIKE to go and need solutions to problems you are encountering as you consider going...contact Debbie (gafbpwocvp@yahoo.com) or De'Etta (gafbpwocpres@yahoo.com). I believe all who attend will benefit.

If the deposit poses a hardship for you, contact De'Etta.

Do you worry about snoring? We'll pass out ear plugs to your roommate.

Are you worried about sharing a bed? We have so few women going we'll put 2 in a room.

Are you worried about waking your neighbor up? She'll not hear you we'll give her ear plugs and an eye mask.

Let us help relieve your fears.

:::DRUM ROLL ::::

By an overwhelming majority you have confirmed what I had thought should be our next Bible Study. We will study Sue Edward's Proverbs Vol 1: Ancient Wisdom for a Postmodern World next. We studied Ephesians with Sue last year and several had requested we do more of her studies.

If you've never done one of Sue's studies, I think you'll be pleased. They are inductive. You are "In DA WORD". However, they are written so that each lesson contains 3 levels of study. The core level will take 15 - 25 min a day. The two deeper levels ask you to do word studies or cross references. In other words we can do an Inductive Study and those of you who have the time and want to dig deep - can dig deep. Those who have less time will still be completing a solidly inductive study.

This study will begin with lesson one being discussed on 30 September. Books will be passed out at Bible Study on the 23rd. If you do not currently attend Bible study and would like to begin with this study, contact De'Etta (gafbpwocpres@yahoo.com) to make arrangements to receive your material.

Be STILL and KNOW That I am GOD

... another lesson in my ongoing year of lessons on surrender

I am a member of our region’s PWOC board. In the midst of trying to catch up from leave, start a new school year, start a new PWOC year/Bible Study, and take care of my duties in the region…….I made a desperate comment to the board. “I’ve decided to skip September in the future.” A dear friend on the board replied, “This sounds like a great homeschool Mom’s motto.” ::snort::

This is a busy season for me. Sept (and Feb) can easily become frenzied. I can begin to feel that I’m slipping, that I’m going to drown in obligations, that I can’t possibly accomplish all that I’ve been called on to accomplish……and in the midst of it all what does my Lord whisper to me during our trysts? In the very time when I’m “focused” (my righteous word for locked like a laser beam on my GOALS), He says to me over and over, “Be STILL and KNOW that I am GOD; I WILL be exalted among the heathen, I WILL be EXALTED in the earth.” Ps 46:10 (KJV)

STILL? Mike has been trying for months to find a time for me to get away for a weekend. He recognizes, as do I in my sane moments that even high energy women need to be STILL.

STILL? Just sit? It goes against the intrinsic definition of SEPTEMBER! STILL?

Still – Hebrew word Rapah – strongs # 7503. We are told that context is important in defining this word because it can mean a variety of things, “become slack, relax, cease, desist, become discouraged, disheartened, weak, feeble, to let it drop, to leave alone, to let go, to forsake, abandon, be lazy”

“Uh God, you KNOW this is S*E*P*T*E*M*B*E*R right? I mean not on YOUR calendar it is Tisrah or something, but in my world this is S*E*P*T*E*M*B*E*R!”

He continues to say, “STILL, De’Etta….KNOW me, I WILL be EXALTED.”

Still…relax, let it drop, leave it alone…..there are times that I need to let it all go…there are times that I’m called to continue my activities but to do it in a spirit of stillness. The NASB translates the phrase as “Cease striving”.

This theme recurred in, “Saturday with Stella’s” a book that explores the metaphor of obedience training of dogs with our relationship with Christ. Mrs. Pittman writes, “To settle goes beyond simply sitting or lying down. A settled dog is on its back, belly exposed, mouth slack, ears flopped. A settled dog is not asleep, but fully awake, aware of its vulnerability, completely at ease with its master. “ P 17. I’ve been working on teaching Beatrix, our dog, to settle. I most often look like the photo of her I tried to capture while she settled. ::snort::

(I’m giving a copy of this book away on my blog.)

“OK, I’m still! NOW what?”

“Know that I am GOD!”

Ah, Yada, I have this imprinted on my checks, from a previous time of study. I get it. As I let it go, as I cease striving, as I go limp in His presence, as I settle; I begin to know God not simply intellectually but I begin to experience intimacy with Him. He is GOD and He WILL be exalted…..my busy activity isn’t totally essential for Him to be exalted. He’s God.

In all my roles, the bottom line is that I WANT HIM to be exalted. I want to reflect well on HIM……so I will be STILL… I will settle and I will experience intimacy with my Lord. This is more essential than any other deadline. He will be exalted in my role as military spouse, pastor’s spouse, regional board member, homeschool teacher, mom, wife, Bible Study teacher, co-op organizer……

I will above all “Be still and know that He is God!”

For more devotionals published on our blog, click here.

ARE YOU SIGNED UP?????

If you haven't signed up for the International PWOC Conference, do so now!

We are looking forward to a great time. In addition to the main sessions, there will be many opportunities to attend workshops that are sure to challenge and bless you. There will be workshops for those in leadership and workshops that pertain to all aspects of being a Christian woman.

I'm hoping to run into ladies from other assignments.

All the info you need is in the side bar. Don't miss out! Remember, if the $100 deposit is a hardship contact De'Etta (gafbpwocpres@yahoo.com).

For more info contact Debbe (phone number in the Protestant News) or email her at gafbpwocvp@yahoo.com . You may also leave a comment below and I'll be sure Debbie sees your name.

This Year's Bible Study Schedule

I am currently inviting input into the "order" that you would like to study our various studies in the upcoming year. If you've not received a list of studies that are planned, and would like to give input, feel free to leave a comment and I'll be sure you get the list.

{De'Etta}

Have We Forgotten?

Seeking Refuge?

"May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have cme to seek refuge." Ruth 2:12

I'm preparing for study tonight. Betsy sent me this photo and it "fits" so well.

That little kitty is such a picture of contentment, rest.....the big dog is surely capable of providing refuge.

May I learn to lay back, relax, listen to His heartbeat....and let him carry the burden.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

WOOT!!!! ANNOUNCING - we have children's ministry. We've always said when there was a need, God would supply a children's program to run at the same time as our PWOC evening Bible Study.

Two young moms expressed a need last week. It was with a bit of trepidation that I began to explore what God was setting in place.

We have a wonderful White Rope who is excited to provide children's ministry for us on Tuesday nights - starting tonight! God is good!

This signifies that our group is growing "demographically". We've been mostly retirees, students and 40 something year old moms - no young children (Well - ahem *I* have a young child - but I have older children too ::snort::). This year we have 3 younger moms - 20 and 30 yo's joining....Exciting times!

I look forward to the start of our first Bible Study - Kinsman Redeemer (read more below) tonight.

If you've not picked up a book and would like to attend - COME! You'll benefit from attending and we'll benefit from interacting with each other. We'll be meeting in the Fellowship Hall at 6:30 p.m.

KICK OFF

A BIG thanks to Debbie and her team for planning and executing our 2008 Kick Off.

Our theme was "Clearing A Space at Jesus' Feet". Our decorations were chaotic and a bit "unfinished". (You can see a bit of the decorations in the background of these photos.)

Debbie started the night by having us introduce ourselves and share what has most recently left us feeling frazzled. A special welcome to our new members: Bobbie Jo, Wendy and Tammy. {There are no photos of our illustrious VP Programs because the photo taken was not very flattering...and she's already been subjected to having her photo on this blog and the International Website numerous times. See? Grace! ::snort::}

Lois led us in worship.

De'Etta made her acting debut....as a frazzled mom with a deployed spouse....


and who IS this obnoxious neighbor???? LOL


The pizza delivery man missed his cue...but we improvised with an Anita Renfroe clip....and more fellowship before dinner. It actually fit the overall theme quite well. LOL

We finished the evening by discussing Mary and Martha...and solutions to our Quiet Time (Tryst) challenges. Thanks ladies, both for sharing your honest challenges and for sharing tips to help others. Goodfellow PWOC is the best! :::sssshhhhh - don't tell:::

Bible Study material was passed out at the Kick off. If you did not get yours, please contact De'Etta or catch up with her on Sunday. The first lesson of Kinsman Redeemer will be discussed next Tuesday at 6:30 in the Fellowship Hall.