Christmas Eve

Before you get to the food, gifts, and celebrating that is part of Christmas, don't forget one thing. Worship is the core of Christmas; the central character is Christ.

To help all of us worship Christ, which is the true meaning of Christmas, Hannaford will conduct two Christmas Eve services. The services are scheduled for 4:00 and 5:15 pm on December 24. These candlelight services will direct all of our attention to Christ and afford us the opportunity to truly worship Him. We will do this before the food, gifts, and family celebrating.

Don't miss this special time to truly invest your hearts in the Reason for the Season. Bring your entire family and friends on Christmas Eve, 4:00 or 5:15 pm, for a time for Christ.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Update on the Philippines

The death and destruction in the Philippines has been massive. We are relieved that family members of Felix Cobarrubias living in the Philippines are safe, although they incurred great damage to their property and possessions. The Hendersons (missionaries stationed in Manila) are also safe. We praise God for the good reports from both of these families.

As a church family, we must commit to pray for those affected by the disaster. I want to encourage each of you to pray for the needs of those affected and comfort for the friends and families of those who lost their lives. The Hendersons have shared about what their mission team is doing to provide relief for the people of the Philippines.

Next Sunday we will have a time of prayer and an update on the relief effort. We will also take an offering to help with relief efforts. Please consider how you can help. I hope to see you Sunday.

Pastor John

You Don't Want to Miss our Conference!

Pastor Ken Hutcherson of Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland, Washington spoke during both morning services yesterday. Pastor Hutcherson played football in the NFL for the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, and Seattle Seahawks. He also won a college football national championship as an All-American linebacker with the Alabama Crimson Tide. He is a tremendous speaker and was an encouragement to all yesterday.

Pastor Hutcherson will be joined tonight by Comedian Daren Streblow and Pastor Bryan Hughes of Grace Bible Church in Bozeman. The evening sessions on Monday and Tuesday begin at 6:15 pm. Nursery and children's activities are provided both evenings. A Pie Fellowship will conclude the conference on Tuesday evening. Each family is asked to bring a pie to share. We strive to end the evening sessions at a time to allow families to get their children home and to bed at a reasonable time.

I trust you will make sure to be here for this special event.

Pastor John

School is Starting - Remember our Teachers

I know that each one of us can look back to teachers and professors who have greatly impacted our lives.  Although my school years are quite a ways behind me, I still feel the impact that many of my teachers have had upon me.  Hannaford Street has many teachers, coaches, and school staff who have poured their lives into the next generation.  This Sunday, August 25, we want to recognize these people and pray for them as they prepare for the 2013-2014 school year.  I encourage you to regularly pray for our teachers and the impact they have upon our children.  

Pastor John

This Hope @ Hannaford

Hannaford is in store for an exciting treat this Sunday, June 9. Performing in both morning services is the vocal quartet, This Hope. They are a men's vocal group from Atlanta, Georgia. Carol and I had the pleasure of hearing these men perform at the Moody's Pastors' Conference in Chicago two years ago. They are very gifted. I know you will enjoy them as well.

So make sure you put this Sunday morning's church service, June 9, on your calendar. It is a great opportunity to have these very talented men bless us here in Montana.  I hope to see you Sunday.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Let's Fellowship

If you are not in a home group, you are encouraged to join one. I have several new groups who need people. People who would like to host a home group would be welcomed with help from me to start one. You could also expect help with details of what to do and people for your group.

Home groups provide a great opportunity to be encouraged, supported, and strengthened spiritually. We all face tough times. A home group holds the potential to provide the needed support for you. Be intentional and connect with a home group.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Let's Pray

The purpose statement of Hannaford is Connecting people with God and each other. It is critical that we remain focused and steadfast on fulfilling this purpose as best we can. In connecting people with God, one key ingredient is prayer. We can infuse all the human effort possible and miss our objective. However, if we put our shoulder to the wheel and put a priority on prayer, we can achieve something wonderful for God.

I encourage all of you to join us each Sunday morning in the Fellowship Room at 8:30 am for prayer. This group prayer meeting is led by the elders and is for everyone in the church. This is a huge benefit for the morning service. Collectively we call on God to bless the services of the day. Won't you come and help us connect people with God through the morning services?

Pastor Dick Crosby

More than the Average Joe

This Sunday, April 14, we begin a new series of messages - nine in all - on the Old Testament man, Joseph. It is a series that Americans and Hannaford people need to hear.

In America, we used to hear phrases like be the best you can be. However, why strive for more or better; the government will take care of you. However, those are rare today. There seems to be a move toward why strive for more or better; the government will take care of you.

We need to obey the Bible which says I can do all things through Christ or whatever you put your head to do, do it with all your might.

Joseph was a man who excelled in his walk with God and in his daily occupation. He was not your Average Joe which is the theme of the next messages.

This Sunday the topic is on The Reward of Revenge. That reward is not what most people think it is. You can use this message in the days to come when you are mistreated. Come and learn how God can help and bless you through these trials. Learn how to be more than the Average Joe.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Living Beyond...

At Hannaford we are in a seven week series entitled, Living Beyond... People have been challenged by what the first church did in comparison to what Hannaford is doing. We do some things in a similar form, but we have changed from that church's approach in other areas. Is that good or bad? You need to hear the series to find the answer.

This Sunday's message is Living Beyond Isolation. America, believe it or not, is filled with many lonely people. Churches have lonely people in them. Hannaford has people attending that are lonely. What are the dangers of loneliness, and how can those dangers be eradicated? This is a message you need to hear—if not for your benefit, then to be armed with the information to help the lonely people you meet.

I look forward to seeing you this coming Sunday. There is no better place to be on Sunday than in God's house—especially during these tumultuous days.

Pastor Crosby

Mizpah Update

We are excited about a possible light at the end of the tunnel concerning the septic system at Mizpah. There is a new style of system which should allow us to place the septic in the area near the lodge. The lodge location helps us overcome groundwater and creek problems which prevented us from placing the system on the edge of the playing field. This week we are meeting to consider our next steps. Please pray for wisdom in decisions, approval of the system, and the funds necessary for the design and installation of the system.

Pastor John

After a month of not preaching—a month that allows a change of pace—I am back. Being back is a good thing; it is where I belong and feel at home.

This Sunday I intend to preach a message on Rabbit Trails. It touches a subject that is really important to all of us. Sunday is God's day. I hope you join us for worship of God; honoring God is vital. God can be honored in many different ways and at many different locations; but how much more fulfilling it is, as believers, to gather together in our house of worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). I pray I will see you this Sunday.

What's on My Mind?

In May Carol and I were in Chicago for a conference. One evening we ate dinner in the Hard Rock Cafe. The food is usually very good. The constant music being played in concert with the videos caused me to feel uncomfortable.

Shortly after we were in the auditorium of Moody Bible Institute. We found ourselves listening to over 1,000 men singing praises to God. My spirit was at home!

In July Carol and I were with a group of people celebrating the birthday of one person. Everyone was enjoying themselves eating, drinking, and talking. There was a lot of beer and constant music that the world enjoys. After we left, Carol played a CD of a men's quartet singing Christian music. Immediately our spirits were at ease and uplifted.
 

If you are a believer, is your appetite directed toward the verbal and musical messages of this world or of messages to praise God? The choice speaks volumes about your current relationship with the God who created and saved you. Beware of the kinds of appetites you develop.

What is Ahead?

There are at least two key activities coming soon. On the late afternoon of August 26, we will host an outreach event at Hannaford. You will not want to miss it.

On September 24 & 25, we host our annual Pastors' Conference. Pastors from Montana and other states are invited as well as our own congregation. It is always a great time.

Pastor Dick Crosby

What is on the horizon?

During the month of July, an opportunity is given to allow the church to hear other voices from the pulpit. Each person does a great job and brings a different perspective and delivery.

This Sunday, Mike Pouliot from BattleZone ministries, will be preaching. Mike is a native of Helena who now ministers out of California. You will thoroughly enjoy his message and ministry presentation.

What is on my agenda?

One project that is on my agenda for July is further progress on our outreach ministry. The task of effective follow-up and discipleship ministry is a sizeable assignment. I hope you will pray for me as I make progress in this area. The reaching of people for Christ is most urgent.

On Easter many people made the decision to accept Jesus as their Savior. A note of encouragement is that many of these people are attending church.

What is around the corner?

Pastor John and I are in the initial planning stages of presenting a series of messages on Last Things. This world is rapidly changing and moving toward what the Bible says will occur in the last days before Christ returns. Christians need to be aware of what is taking place, not for the satisfaction of curiosity, but for a deeper sense of the shortness of time on this earth.

Pastor Dick Crosby

What is on my heart?

From the perspective of many the future of America looks dire. The economy, terrorism, and a fluid morality that appears to be in decline are troublesome issues to me. However, there is one thing that we should fear even more; and I will share some of those thoughts this Sunday. With God's help I believe we can change course. The message is from Psalm 23 which I call Running on an Empty Tank Down the Wrong Road.

What is on the horizon?

• This coming Sunday is Graduation Sunday. We will honor those who have achieved various levels of academic success.
• Summer is nearly upon us, and many children's activities are scheduled at Hannaford. Check our website, www.hannaford.org, for details.
• It is a few months away, but the Fall Bible Conference is taking shape. This year the Network of Praise will co-sponsor the conference with us. It is hoped that this will expand our conference and in turn reach more pastors.

What is on my mind?

• A Purpose Plan was begun for our church some time back. On Easter Sunday we launched that plan and are currently developing it toward a more workable plan.
• Our next big step will be on August 26. The details will be shared in weeks to come. I have a heart to reach the lost of Helena, and together we can do that with the blessing of God.
• I am currently weighing other outreach opportunities. Pray for wisdom as I ponder these and other ideas to reach Helena. God may open a door or say, "Nice thought Dick, but not now."

Pastor Dick Crosby

I have been concerned about the nonbelievers in Helena and Hannaford's effort to reach them. A church needs to be proactive in trying to reach the lost. It needs to disciple, train, and prepare them to do the same. This is the great commission that we as believers have been given to reach, teach, and do it again repeatedly.

A plan of action designed to help our church achieve that goal has been developed. The pastors, elders, and deacons have read the plan and provided valuable input. However, I want a cross-section of people from the church to read through the plan and become involved in a study group to make it as inviting and Hannaford-friendly as possible.

I value the views of all ages. The cultural ideas of the younger generations are often different than mine. Input from those in their mid-thirties or below is also very important. Please consider helping; your perspective will be valued.

If you would like to join this study group, please contact me for a copy of the plan.

Pastor Dick Crosby

A New Time, A New Series, and A New Pastor

Changes are occurring this week at Hannaford. One change is temporary, another about three months long, and one is long term. The temporary change is the TIME CHANGE. This coming Sunday is the annual Daylight Savings time change. Set your clocks AHEAD on Saturday night so that you will not be late for church. You won’t want to miss this Sunday!

The three month change is the length in which we expect a new message series on Moses to take. This is a very practical series that will help everyone. Moses is called by some the greatest man among mere men in the whole history of the world. This week you will hear a personal story from one of our men that will be encouraging.

The long term change is Worship Pastor, Ed Melendez. After several months of praying and searching, God brought an excellent worship leader to Hannaford. If you had the opportunity to be here in January when he visited, you know what I am talking about. We welcome Ed and look forward to his ministry at Hannaford.

Angie Luchau has filled in as Worship Coordinator for the last four months. She has done a great job as coordinator; we are thankful for her faithful service.

So set your clocks ahead, expect to be challenged, and worship with us in way that will encourage you.


Pastor Dick Crosby

Summer Children's Schedule

Come and join the fun!

While we are still waiting for all the snow to melt, we can look forward to the warm days of summer. Our summer activity dates have been set. The grades listed below are the grades students will be entering in the fall.

Vacation Bible School, June 13-17. Join us as we learn about Psalm 139.  Children age 4 to 6th grade.

Drama Camp, June 27-30. Students will prepare a musical that they will perform on Thursday evening for family and friends. Children 2nd grade and up.

Junior Camp, July 6-9. A great adventure at Mizpah as we learn about God in a spectacular setting. Students in 4th-7th grade.

Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar. We are also looking for volunteers to help in each event.

Pastor John Fenlason

Worship Pastor Candidate

Edward & Jessica Melendez

This Sunday, January 9, promises to be an exciting one for sure. Edward Melendez will be here from California to interview for the Worship Pastor position. Edward will lead the morning worship.

Searching for a staff position is difficult and time consuming. It becomes an exciting time when we narrow our search down to a single person and have an opportunity for the Hannaford family to meet him. Edward will be accompanied by his wife and two children.

Edward, in addition to his musical abilities, is very proficient in computer skills and has graphic design capabilities. He could be an excellent addition to our staff.

Please don't miss this occasion to meet Edward and experience worship under his leadership. I hope to see you Sunday.

Pastor Dick Crosby

Farewell

Church Family,

It is with mixed emotions I compose this letter, both heavy heartedness and joy and excitement for what the future may hold.

About three weeks ago I received a call from a very close friend and mentor to come and serve with him in ministry in Grants Pass, Oregon. After a visit to him in July of this year with the purpose of consulting on some audio/video for a building remodel (during which I led the church he pastors in worship), they created a worship pastor position. He expressed the desire for me to fill that role. Julia and I have been praying for weeks about this decision, and we have decided to accept the calling and move to Oregon to serve the Redwood Christian Church as their worship pastor. Our last Sunday with you at HSBC will be October 31st.

Please know that this was not an easy decision for us. We have made several good friends here, my ministry is thriving at Hannaford, and we were looking forward to many years of service to you and the Lord at Hannaford Street Bible Church. However when God calls (and this may be difficult to understand if you have never served in vocational ministry), you can either fight it as Moses did at first at the burning bush or accept it (no matter how difficult it may be), embrace it, and trust God that He knows what is best for us.

We are not running from anything or anyone here at HSBC. I have searched for many reasons to say no to God in this matter, but His calling is persistent. The non-spiritual side of me cringes at the thought of having to move AGAIN for the sixth time in four years, starting over in ministry, being even farther away from immediate family in Indiana, and leaving our dear friends in Helena. Every time I pray about it, I am getting a green light from the Holy Spirit; it has become evident that God is pursuing us in this calling.

Our time at HSBC will remain in our hearts as a blessing. Your generosity to our family, both as church and individually, has truly been an incredible blessing from God! We will treasure the friendships we made here for our lifetimes, forged in the fire of ministry! We pray God’s richest blessings on you and on HSBC. You are doing a wonderful work in Helena; we have been privileged to be a part of it.

If you have any questions or just want to talk, please feel free to e-mail me (jonwimp@gmail.com) or give us a call (202-6034).

Be blessed and be a blessing!

Jonathan Wimp

Opportunities and Challenges

The fall always generates new schedules largely because of school for the kids. Vacations are generally over, and the routine begins for all of us. This is usually the time when people get back into the routine of church. That also means the church begins many of its programs, such as AWANA, MOPS, and new Bible studies.

To help generate a renewed schedule in church, this Sunday is National Back to Church Sunday. We ask everyone to make every effort to be in church this Sunday, September 12, and bring a friend. This is a great opportunity.

The immediate challenge is one of a financial nature. We sent a notice to everyone asking for an extra financial gift by this coming Sunday. The spring and summer have been taxing on the church budget. Giving has been down to the point of putting some of our ministries in jeopardy.

We need your prayers and gifts concerning this matter. This is your church; we are frugal in the use of church finances. But in these desperate times in our world, the church needs to be stronger than ever in proclaiming the message of Jesus.

Please take advantage of the opportunities and help shoulder the challenges here at Hannaford Street.

Dick Crosby, Senior Pastor

I hope that everyone in America would understand that this nation was established primarily for religious freedom. We have been blessed for over 250 years to be able to worship without government interference. That liberty is celebrated on the fourth day of July each year.

This year that date falls on a Sunday. We will celebrate our freedom in a variety of ways.

• Morning begins at 9:00 a.m. with a full breakfast. People whose last names begin with A-M are asked to bring a fruit dish; N-Z are asked to bring a breakfast meat dish. In addition, pancakes will be served.
• Some patriotic venues will be presented to remember our
  great country.
• ONLY ONE service will be held this Sunday! Both first and second services will meet at 10:00 a.m.
• Scott Yebba will bring a message that promises to challenge.
• It should be a packed house with excitement and
  great preaching.

I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we celebrate our religious freedom. If you are unable to attend on Sunday, please plan to come Thursday evening at 6:30.
 
Dick Crosby