NORTHSIDE NOTES - June 12, 2013 |
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A Pastoral e-pistle by Rev. James Lamkin
"Summertime...and the Preachin' Ain't Easy"
I thought it was a good idea.
I thought it was a good idea to invite the Sunday morning Church School classes to offer one (that's ONE) question each on the topic, What Does the Bible Say About...?
I thought it would be a fun (that's FUN) way to form a refreshing July-August sermon series. It would be fitting for the restful, playful, lazy, hazy days of summer.
I thought folk would ask things like: "If 'Jesus Wept' is the shortest verse in the Bible, what is the longest?" Or, "Where is 'God helps those who help themselves?'"
But, I thought wrong.
It's like that parable that Jesus told about casting a net into the ocean. You pull in a wide assortment of interesting fish. Plus, a tire or two and an old boot.
In response to my invitation, multiple topics have rolled-in.
One wants to know about the relationship between technology, medicine, ethics, and theology.
Another asked about the complexities of the Christian Doctrine of the Atonement.
Somebody asked if there are any dinosaurs in the Bible?
In addition, there's a question about disciplining children, another about impatience and tolerance, one about miracles, also angels, plus the pursuit of happiness.
There were three questions on one topic: What happens in the after life? And no, it wasn't just senior adults who are cramming for finals who asked that one. Our children's Church School Class asked it, as well.
And, as you would expect, the "End Times," make a cameo appearance among the ideas. (Where is my copy of Late Great Planet Earth anyway?)
All of this to say: I've got some studying to do! I've pulled books off my shelves which haven't seen the light of day since Baby Greek class. A dust cloud rose over my Keil and Delitzsch (don't worry if you've never heard of it).
I'm busy reading and praying and consulting and studying. I've enlisted Mike Gregg and Steve Sheeley to preach twice, to give me some relief. I will give them the two-part mini-series on the question: "Do All Dogs Go to Heaven," submitted by our cat lovers.
Actually, I am excited about the summer. The sermon series begins July 7 and goes to Labor Day. I appreciate all of the ideas and questions. Whatever else preaching is, it is a conversation between the preacher, the text, and the congregation.
Within this rich texture, preaching occurs. Honored, am I, to share it with you. |
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Artist in the Narthex
Ruth P. Kramedjian
June 16, 2013
This simple intentional Practice became a Meditative Practice. I began to look more closely at the rituals in my daily walk, my daily work, my daily interactions, and I began to practice more gratitude for the richness of these small holy insights. And so on the Monday after Easter Sunday, I listened for the end of this challenge and found that I would miss looking thru the small stuff. What I have learned is that I need a Meditative Practice. It may change from season to season, but it will probably always involve some kind of visual-art intention. From the most mundane to the most glorious, these photos speak about that need, and I present them for your reflection.
For 50 years, I have been making some kind of art: drawings, abstract paintings, quilts, silver and gold jewelry, handmade paper, handmade books, photographs, collage. I believe that all of these art endeavors have enriched my life. Through creative actions I have come to know bits and pieces of who I am and something about what is important on this life journey.
Looking Thru The Small Stuffis a portfolio of small photos that began with a challenge from Cindy Bell: what could daily art intention look like for the Season of Lent 2013? The criteria that I set for myself was simple: a photo recorded with the iPhone camera; a photo made daily during the Season of Lent; search for the holy in the small stuff of my everyday life; listen for the text that would inform the visual or sometimes the reverse. |
Missions in June
It's that time of year again! Well, no, it's not Advent or Christmas--nor is it Christmas in June--but it's that time of year when we Northside Drivers get hands-on with our missions. I guess you could call it Missions in June! We ask for your good thoughts and prayers as we go...
To NYC (June 8-15, 2013). As you read this article, some of the youth are with me in New York City. We are again working with our Alliance of Baptists friends at Metro Baptist Church, and this year, we are also working alongside some of our "youth-in-laws" from Milledge Avenue Baptist where my wife Kristy is the Associate Pastor. From serving meals in soup kitchens and bagging groceries in food pantries, to putting on work gloves and helping with the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, we are right now in the midst of doing the kind of good work that Northside Drive values.
And to Taliaferro (June 16-21, 2013). Some of the same folks who are in NYC this week will turn around and head to Taliaferro next week. There we will learn, we will grow, and we will play.
Pray for us as we go to meet God and people out in the world--that we might change and be changed in the experience. |
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Summer Adult Church School
The Future of Faith in a Changing World
Sundays at 9:30 AM, June 2-August 25
In the Fellowship Hall
The world is changing and many faith communities are struggling to understand and adapt to a shifting culture. What are these shifts and how are they impacting churches? What does the Bible have to say? How do we navigate this unprecedented change?
Experts from congregational and academic backgrounds will explore these questions with captivating presentations, powerful demographics, and dynamic dialogue. Join us every Sunday in the summer for an exploration of the future of faith in a changing world.
Sessions Include:
June 16 - Dr. David Garber
Moses, Jesus, and Superman
June 23 - Dr. Steven Sheeley
What do we do with Scripture now?
June 30 - Dr. Larry McSwain
The Crisis in the American Church
July 7 - Holiday: No Session
July 14 - Dr. David Bell
Youth and Religion:
Adolescent Religious Experiences in the 21st Century
July 21 - Dr. Larry McSwain
The Changing Face of America:
Demography
July 28 - Dr. David Garber
It's the End of the World as We Know It:
Culture's Obsession with Apocalypse
August 4 - Dr. Larry McSwain
Amazing Grace:
How Can We Be So Different and Not Kill One Another?
August 11 - Dr. Steven Sheeley
Worshipping in "Spirit and Truth"
August 18 - Dr. Rob Nash
Who Moved the Equator? Finding Church in the 21st Century
August 25 - Panel Discussion
Being a Fruitful Church in a Changing World |
NDBC Book Club  |
Family Lunches after Church
Join with other NDBC families for after-church lunches. Everyone is invited for a time of fun and fellowship together! We hope to see you there.
June 23 - Potluck in Fellowship Hall
July 21 - Zoe's Kitchen
August 18 - Potluck in Fellowship Hall
For more information contact Amanda Gregg at amanda_agd@yahoo.com. |
Pastor's Wednesday Morning Bible Study
We meet weekly from 10:30-11:30 AM, thru June 26 (with the exception of June 18), in the church's Conference Room. We study the texts selected in the Revised Common Lectionary for the next Sunday. Large print editions are available each week and for the upcoming week. Discussion is deep and lively. All are invited. |
Mike's Memos 
New CareNotes for You!
Have you noticed the CareNotes display rack near the front doors in the Narthex? If not, stop by and look. CareNotes are pamphlets designed to provide information and words of care to people who are hurting, confused, or in need of guidance. These publications give special emphasis to grief, illness, and family issues. The Deacons of NDBC have provided this resource as a way to give care and support to the church's members. The writers for CareNotes are people who have struggled with these tough subjects. Other contributors are therapists, pastoral ministers, chaplains, and health-care educators. The CareNotes in the Narthex give detailed information about family matters, intense grief, and caring for loved ones who are sick and dying. Take a moment on Sunday and browse this new collection. You might find a pamphlet that makes a difference in your life. |
| Deacon Profile
Ruth Kramedjian lives in Vinings with her husband Armand in a newly restored home on the river. She joined NDBC in 2007 because she loves the wonderful community of faith that is open to question and learning about how to grow into a fuller faith/walk with God. She enjoys her two sons, their wives and 5 grandchildren who all live in Virginia. Ruth's interests include art, gardening, hiking and music.
Ruth's Deacon Families are:
Allen & Conda Abbott
John & Ginger Cooper w/Paxton & Chance Cooper
Tim & Jada Getsay w/Emily Getsay
JB & Virginia Gilbert
James Gilbert
Mike & Amanda Gregg w/Annaleigh & Beatrice Gregg
Stella Herndon
Amy Hurst w/Calvin & Charlotte Dalke
John & Susan Isakson
w/Charley & Janie Joyner and Jack & Riley Isakson
Jackie Mitchell
Howard & Joyce Raley
Laura Seay
Dick & Wilma Underwood |
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"What Does the Bible Say About...?"
Summer Sermon Series
with Rev. James Lamkin
July 7-September 1
in the Chapel |
A Note of Thanks
Dear Northside Drive,
Some of you know me, some of you do not; and for those who do not, I am the son-in-law of Marshall and Cheryl Dewell and the husband of Allyson. I wanted to thank you as a congregation for all the thoughts and prayers that you have been sending me and my family's way during the past seven weeks of my radiation treatments. This week I finished my treatments, and I am now cancer free. When I first came to Northside I was just a guest, but then I got married in your church and felt more comfortable; but now I feel as if Northside Drive is my second church home and you are my second church family.
2 Samuel 22:47 reads, "The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted!"
Northside Drive has great things on the horizon and it will be great to see what the Lord has in store. Again thank you for all the thoughts and prayers.
Jason Bretch |
Up-Coming Triple E
NDBC Member, Tom Vander Ven, will be one of the presenters at Triple E in Fall 2013. Recently, his newest book was published: [Enter Ghost]. It is available in paperback. To order the book, visit enterghost.wordpress.com, where you will find excerpts of text, as well as examples of the artwork, created and edited by Cyndi Vander Ven. Over his career, his poems appeared in several journals, and twelve of his plays were produced regionally. He co-authored A Campus Becoming (2010), on the early years of the Indiana University South Bend campus. Through stories, essays, poems, and plays, the book explores human desire and fear in childhood and in the face of aging, retirement, and mortality. |
Gas Turned Off for the Summer!
May 31-September 3, 2013
As a cost savings to the church, the gas is turned off in the Spring and turned back on in the Fall. This is part of the summer savings program with Infinite Energy. We will have an electric water heater for use during those months. |
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Come join us on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 PM, in Room #207, the Parlor, to knit or crochet a prayer shawl. If you are not sure how, no problem, there will be plenty of people to help you get started. This group is open to anyone who would like to join! For more information call Susan Harlan at 770-377-3869. |
 NDBC Preschool
Camp HopScotch
Let's explore together with Northside Drive Baptist Church Preschool's Camp HopScotch! Five (5) fun-filled FULL week sessions, each with its own theme. All sessions include worship, music and movement and art. Camp HopScotch is staffed by NDBC Preschool teachers whose goal is to provide your child with a safe, exciting camp experience. The camp is open to children 12 months through 12 years of age. Visit our website at ndbcpreschool.org/summerprogram for more information. |
Church Week
- TTWL Week -
SUNDAY, June 16, FATHER'S DAY
9:30 AM - Summer Church School
11:00 AM - Morning Worship
TUESDAY, June 18
11:30 AM - ROMEOS Luncheon
1:00 PM - Book Club
WEDNESDAY, June 19
7:00 PM - Prayer Shawl Ministry
THURSDAY, June 20
7:00 PM - TNT |
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INDEPENDENCE
HOLIDAY
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4th of JULY
WEEKEND
The Church & Preschool
offices will be closed
in observance of the
Fourth of July weekend, Thursday & Friday, July 4 & 5, 2013. |
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THIS SUNDAY'S
LECTIONARY TEXTS
June 16, 2013
I Kings 21:1-21a
Psalm 5:1-8
Galatians 2:18-21
Luke 7:36-8:3 |
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PASTOR'S
CHURCH GROWTH
TIP OF THE WEEK
Have a "Something wonderful happened in our church the other day...," sentence ready for the next party if someone asks you, "Where do you go to church?" |
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This Week's
TENDER LOVING
PRAYER (TLP)
List*
Mary Dutton
Ray Griner
Herry Humphries
Raymond & Bernice Jones
Josh & Anne Maust
Nancy F. Davis
*The TLP is a Diaconate ministry. Each week's list contains the names of three NDBC senior adults, plus two or three others who are facing a difficult time. If you would like your name placed on our rotating TLP list, please give the church office a call. |
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JUNE
BIRTHDAYS
Steve Konenkamp - 1
Jolene Thomas - 1
Barney Moore - 3
Nancy Elaine Davis - 4
Jackie Poole - 5
James Gilbert - 6
Myrtie Cope - 8
Maria Schroeder - 8
Graham Mudd - 10
Larry Prince, Jr. - 10
Rose Hidlay - 15
Naomi Lewis - 17
Gene Hill - 18
Deborah Oakley - 18
Joleen Neel - 18
David Fletcher - 21
Barbi Avery - 22
Dorsett Davis - 24
Joann Warmack - 26
Steven McAllister - 26
Lisa Bridges - 26
Jim Nicol - 27
Michael Harbin - 28
Anne Maust - 29
Lois Pickering - 30 |
| ROMEOS
(Retired Older Men
Eating Out)
Every 3rd Tuesday of the month from 11:30 AM-1 PM.
A time to visit with friends,
tell stories and eat good food (bring your lunch money)!
Piccadilly Cafeteria
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"TNT"
(Thursday Nights Together)
People of all ages from NDBC meet
at 7 PM every
Thursday night for dinner.
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YOUNG ADULT:
SMALL GROUP
SUNDAYS
The young adult small
group reads a book each
month on various faith-
related issues. We meet
on the third Sunday of
the month at 6:30 PM for
discussion and then go
off campus for dinner
together. The small
group meets in the
Undercroft. Email Zach Bay to sign up.
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YOUNG ADULT
UNPLUGGED EVENTS
Young Adult Unplugged
evenings. These are
casual dinners at our
homes where Mike will
bring the main course and
everyone else brings a
side item. They are on
Friday nights once a
month at 7 PM. If you
are interested in attending
an Unplugged event contact
Zach Bay for more details. |
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YOUTH LUNCH AFTER CHURCH
The NDBC Youth meet every 2nd Sunday after church to have lunch together. For more information contact Zach Bay at zach@northsidedrive.org.
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YOUTH
Encore! is a once a month
youth event on either
Sunday afternoon or
Sunday evening. We focus
this time on fellowship,
discussion, and/or
mission service.
Contact Zach Bay
with questions. |
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THE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS BOOK
A copy of the book is in the Narthex for previewing and the cost is only $30. To get your copy, call us at 404-237-8621 or email the church. |
Wi-Fi is now available in the educational building as well as the Fellowship Hall and youth area.
The network is: ndbcwireless The password is: northsidedrive. |
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NORTHSIDE NOTES
ARCHIVES
Did you miss an issue
of our Northside Notes?
to read more. |
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THE PAPERLESS PINNACLE
The Pinnacle is emailed
as a link to the
congregation and is
available on the
church website at
www.northsidedrive.org.
If you would prefer not to
receive the Pinnacle by
U.S. mail, please call
404-237-8621 or email us
to let us know. |
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NORTHSIDE DRIVE STAFF
Rev. Dr. James Lamkin
Pastor
Rev. Mike Gregg
Minister of
Educational Life
Rev. Zachary Bay
Maddox Pastoral
Resident
Paul Fletcher
Director of Music
Jeff Harbin
Organist
Rachel Sherron
Children's Intern
Rose Hidlay
Business Manager
Renee Gamache
Administrative
Assistant
Vanessa Johnson
Preschool Director
Richard Willingham
Custodian
Gregory Colson
Director Emeritus
of Music |
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