Beloit Friends Demonstrate Creativity in Recognition Float

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 Damascus 9/11 Remembrance
 
 
 Women's Retreat
 
 

Beloit Friends Demonstrate Creativity in Recognition Float

On July 14, 2002, members of the Beloit, Ohio Friends congregation participated in a recognition and dedication service for the local fire department. The department was celebrating 50 years of service to the community, as well as dedicating a new fire station. Each fireperson was recognized for his/her service and presented with a gift pack which included the 9/11 pamphlet "Fallen But Not Forgotten." Among the special guests were village council members, State Representative John Boccieri, and Southern Gospel Artist Lynn Swizinsky. As "host church," Beloit Friends was privileged to provide the music and a challenge to those in attendance.

People were reminded to "Keep God in their community as well as their service to others." They were also challenged to "seek Christ to understand their purpose in life; to find meaning in life; and so that the house they build and labor they perform will not be in vain."

As part of the weekend celebration for the Beloit Fire Department, the church put together a float for the Friday Evening Kickoff Parade. The church chose a theme from the summer VBS: "God's Greatest Show On Earth - Faith, Hope and Love"

The float was also entered in the annual Carnation Days Parade in Alliance (Ohio), where they were awarded first place in the Religious Division and first place for Best Display of Carnations (carnations added to posts after picture taken).

submitted by Pastor Mark Reich,
Beloit Friends Church

Lynn Shreve Remembered

A man who truly loved people and demonstrated the love of Christ. This could describe the life of Lynn Shreve, who went to meet the Lord on December 26, 2002.

In his last full-time ministry position, Lynn served as Piedmont and Virginia District Superitendent for EFC-ER. But, hundreds have been personally touched by his generous, warm spirit, and love for people through the years.

He and wife, Esther, served in a varitey of ministries in Canada, Michigan, Texas, Ohio, and North Carolina for over fifty years.

We are grateful for his life and for his willingness to serve so faithfully. Our prayers are with Esther and his family during this time of loss.

Friends Disaster Service Banquet

How would people respond to a new type of fund-raiser for FDS?

For over 20 years, FDS hosted an annual auction in order to raise money for their ministry. Hundreds donated items, and even more enjoyed purchasing quilts, hand-crafted wood items, produce, baked goods, and more.

In recent years, however, the auction has become more of challenge due to increased regulations and higher expenses.

Although Dean and Freda Johnson loved the fellowship and experience of the auction each year, they began to sense that God was calling them to something else. Shortly after the 2001 auction, plans began for a catered Reunion/Benefit Banquet in lieu of the auction.

The goal for the evening was to celebrate how God has used FDS to minister through the years, to provide a time of fellowship for former volunteers, and to raise funds for future ministry.

Over 270 tickets were sold for the banquet held at Canton First Friends Church on September 7, 2002. The afternoon began with a two hour reception and fellowship time allowing everyone to visit with longtime friends while viewing photos and memorabilia from the hundreds of ministry projects. A catered banquet and short program continued the atmosphere of celebration. The total profit for the evening was over $28,500.

"We are very pleased with the result--the total profit was actually consistent with the total profit received from the auction." explained Dean Johnson.

"We're so thankful that God has blessed this time," added Freda, "and we're tickled to death with the result!"

For more information about FDS, contact Dean and Freda Johnson.