Greetings to our Bluffton North church family. 

At the threshold of a new year we thought it wise to give some direction on our plan for Bluffton North services for the month of January. (Keep in mind we make plans based on what we currently know with the understanding plans may change as the situation warrants. Prov 16:9)

Beginning tomorrow, Sunday January 10^th , we are planning a change in the timing and process. The essence of the change includes the addition of a second service, Sunday School classes, a shortened break between services (water and granola bars available), and NO lunch. The specific times are as follows:

UPDATE FOR BLUFFTON NORTH SERVICES – January 10^th (and likely for the next 2 Sundays after the 10^th)

FIRST SERVICE: 9:30 a.m. Doors open / 9:45 a.m. Song Service / 10:00 a.m. Pulpit time / Sunday School for all grades and adult classes

15/20-minute break (water and granola bars available in foyer)

SECOND SERVICE: 11:15 a.m. Song Service / 11:30 Pulpit time / Dismiss at approximately 12:15 p.m.

Both services with live streaming - video (at https://www.blufftonnorth.com/video) and audio (via AC Central)

Continued Cautions! … for all of us. 

• “Safe zone” on both sides of the sanctuary for those who are vulnerable and/or concerned about being infected or infecting others. 
• Stay home if you are symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19, or if you have been asked to quarantine. 
• When you enter the BN church building proceed directly into the sanctuary; the ushers will help if requested, otherwise seat yourself keeping appropriate distancing. 
• Don’t hesitate to move toward the front of the assembly. 
• Masks are recommended as you move within the building; Keep appropriate distancing within the building and in the sanctuary

We appreciate your ongoing patience and prayers as we attempt to be responsible in how we manage our coming together for worship. There is no lack of variety in our opinions and/or convictions, so it takes an extra amount of grace to respect and esteem others who may think differently than we do. These days we are getting some good lessons on how to apply Eph 4:1-3 … “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”.

We trust the Holy Spirit will continue to lead us during these difficult times. God’s blessings to all …

God’s blessings …

Bluffton North Minister Group

Announcements

"A body of believers bound together by our love for Jesus Christ and his Word, reflecting God's love, grace and truth"             

BC and BN is offering another Holy Communion service at 1:00 on Saturday January 23rd at Bluffton North (doors open at 1:00, the service beginning at 1:15). We plan to take additional health precautions with distancing, individual serving containers, and asking that masks are worn during the service. We look forward to a time of remembering, thanking and worshiping our risen Lord. 

GIFT CARD Shower for Jon & Amy (Fiechter) Gerst! In an unexpected turn of events (COVID being one of them), Jon and Amy Gerst will be closing their 8.5 year call to Ethiopia and relocating to Ft. Wayne, IN. This decision has brought peace and grief and they would appreciate prayers as they settle in. They remain full time workers for SIM USA with Jon as the Missional Business Advocate. Let’s welcome them back to the area by showering them with gift cards so they can start setting up their home. Gift card preferences: Kohl’s, Menards, Meijer, Amazon, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Hobby Lobby (note: some of these gift cards can be purchased at Kroger in Bluffton). Please send gift cards to Mike and Shari Fiechter’s address: 6630 E 700 North Ossian, IN 46777. Contacts for card shower: Demeke & Aubrey Dessie (260-273-5882) & Klint & Sarah Fiechter (260-273-0357)

TODAY is the last day to sign up for: Speaker- Katie Miller (ACCFS) on January 16^th for a morning of encouragement for women of all ages from our Bluffton and Bluffton North congregations. This event will be held at Bluffton North beginning at 9:30 AM. She will be speaking on the topic of being “Flawed but Worthy”. There will be a (pre-selected) panel discussion after her presentation. Click here to sign up for virtual or in person attendance or contact Jenna Stoller (273-0328) or Janel Gerber (273-2728) to sign up. 

The 2021 Church-Wide Bible Reading Plan is now available. We will be reading through the book of Matthew and other corresponding passages. A Reading Plan Spreadsheet can be picked up in the east foyer or found on the church website. A more in-depth reading guide is attached in the email announcements. A short survey will also be posted by the reading plans. We would appreciate your feedback. For more information, please contact Blaine Aschliman (braschliman@gmail.com) or Joe Leman (joe_leman@sil.org).

SOS will be starting up again this Wednesday, January 13th at 7:00 at Kingdom Academy for all high school students. If anyone is willing to help with snack please use the following link to sign up https://www.PerfectPotluck.com/WQYW8056 password is SOSSNACK. Thank you for your continued support and prayers! SOS Committee 

The BN mentor program is in need of additional brothers and sisters of all ages, who would be willing to mentor some of our younger people. So many have found this a great blessing to be involved in. We appreciate your support! Please contact Todd or Michelle Gerber with questions or for information.

Christian Care is seeking volunteers to help with daily employee screening efforts from 5AM-8AM during the month of January. Full or partial shifts are available and need filled immediately. Interested parties can call 260-565-3000, or contact Betty Lough at blough@christiancarerc.org.

HarvestCall 2021 Winter Rebuilding Project in Marianna, Florida. Please see the attached announcement file for more information on this service opportunity. 

COVID CONTACT: Stay home from church & social events if you are sick, have sick family members, or have been asked to quarantine. If diagnosed with COVID-19 or have questions, please contact Javon (260-273-1323). All details are kept confidential.

Please pray for this family living abroad: Jonathan & Lisa Ringger

Intercessory Prayer Opportunity:  LetUsPray365@gmail.com