Two receive water baptism

Red Run News -- December 27, 2009

On our final Sunday service of the year, we welcomed many visitors. Michelle Sensenig led us in singing. Earl and Liz Martin read the Scriptures for us. The choir sang "Star of the East." Ellen Martin played Christmas music during the prelude and the offering.

James Weber and Luke Witmer were baptized with water upon the confession of their faith in Jesus. Assisted by deacon Randy, Pastor Melvin administered the baptism. Pastor Carl had a message from the Christmas story in Luke 2 with a special emphasis on our response to the coming of the Savior, "There is room in my heart for you, Jesus."

Due to the snow cancellation last week, we had two stories for the children this week.Tina Mickley talked about being born again and told the story of the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Willis Burkholder told of the marvels of God's creation. He also quoted a poem that he had memorized as a child -- "When the frost is on the punkin" by James Whitcomb Riley.

We have a New Year breakfast scheduled for next Sunday, January 3. This will be between the Sunday School class and the church service.

Christmas program delights all ages

Red Run News -- December 13, 2009

The annual Christmas program at Red Run was a delight as people of all ages participated in the music and dialogue. The children sang and presented through puppets the characters in the Christmas story. We enjoyed singing carols and listening to instrumental music, including the songs by the chimes choir. Thanks to all who led out in this.

On Sunday morning, Kevin brought a message on the preaching of John the Baptist. The good news means that we recognize our own sin and give our lives to the Lord Jesus.

We are thankful for the safe return of Glenn Stauffer on Monday, December 15. Glenn had been doing scientific research in Antarctica.

We look forward to the service on December 20. There will be a breakfast between Sunday school and the church service. We are planning for the baptism of Luke Witmer and James Weber. This can serve as a reminder to all of us who have said "Yes" to Jesus.

On Saturday evening (December 19), we are planning to carol in Adamstown. Park in the driveway at either Mel and Ruthie's home or Kevin and Letitia's home at 6:30 p.m.. Then we will carol in the surrounding neighborhood.

Choosing the path of peace

Red Run News -- December 6, 2009

A lovely snowfall on Saturday reminded us of the approaching winter season. This morning we enjoyed a fellowship breakfast between Sunday School and the church service.

In the adult Sunday School class, David Erb reminded us that the genealogies in the Bible invite us into the spiritual experiences of those who have gone before us.

Bob Sauder led us in singing beginning with "Guide My Feet" accompanied by Letitia Weaver on the piano. The choir sang "Love Came Down at Christmas." Dawn Martin told the story of how Bonnie prayed and made some good choices about the person who was stealing gas from her truck. We can choose the path of peace instead of seeking revenge.

Ken Sensenig had a message on preparing for Jesus. At just the right time, God sent Jesus. Rome had established a stable empire with good systems of transportation and communication. The Jews with a messianic hope were meeting in synagogues throughout that world. so the stage was set for Jesus to be born and the Christian church established. As Elizabeth, Zechariah, Mary, and Joseph, we can have hearts that are receptive to Jesus.

Next Sunday, December 13:
A fellowship meal will follow the morning service. The Christmas program will be at 7 p.m. at the church. Plan to come and invite others as we look forward to this time together.