Category: MidweekMessage

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #293

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #293. It is going to be a wild and wooly week for many of you. I hear from both teachers and students that this last week of school is filled with activities, mixed with a bunch of relief. Grad parties, the final OVMS baseball game and a final soccer match at the Sports Complex tops the list. However, after this week there are still at least 2-3 weeks left for baseball and soccer at the Sports Complex. Jo & I have seen a lot of weary parents the past couple of weeks. But I’m guessing they will do it all again for their kiddos.

IN THE “LET’S CELEBRATE WITH THEM” DEPARTMENT:

This past Sunday we acknowledged and celebrated with our high school and college graduates.
Some of you may have not been able to make it so I thought I would highlight them one more time here.

HIGH SCHOOL

• • • Alli Anderson-OVHS
    • Hannah Bixler-OVHS
    • Caleb East-Homeschool
    • Carter Hayden-Edgewood
    • Meilynn Hess- Homeschool
    • L.J. Jenkins-OVHS
    • Cammie King- OVHS

COLLEGE

• • • Kristi Arnold-IU
    • Bryer LeCocq- IU
    • Klaudia Stahl- USI
    • Katie Wood- Purdue
    • Kloee Wood- ISU

Congratulations to all of you for a job well-done! May God have His hand on you as you move into the future. “Be strong and courageous.”

KEEP THIS DATE IN MIND!

Next Wednesday, May 27th, is our next church family pitch-in starting at 6:00. We look forward
to seeing you there!

YOUTH NEWS

• • • Jo and I attended the final concert put on by the music department of OVMS and OVHS.
      Several of our young people were in the different choirs.
    • From OVMS 7th grade: Amelia Biggs, Rusti O’Neal, CJ Wood, and Cooper Wood
    • From OVMS 8th grade: Cecelia Arnold
    • Valley Beat: Rusti O’Neal, CJ Wood, and Cooper Wood
    • Valley Soundwaves: Charli Wood
    • Sweet Pizzazz: Keely Wills
    • Rusti and Cecelia both received awards. Rusti: Best Dancer, Cecelia: Best Vocals
    • It was good to see Bella Madorin Sunday. She came to support Charli. Bella participated in our youth programs before moving away. She still attends Hilltop Camp with Charli.
    • Jo and I have enjoyed seeing so many of our young people taking an active part in sports. I found out that Izzy Chambers, Boston Groomer and Haven Mosier are playing soccer at the Sports Complex. Haven’s brother, Kane, is playing baseball.

BOOKS TO STRETCH YOUR MIND AND HEART:

In the last MM, I mentioned that I put some books that were in my office in the church library (where the coffee is on Sunday mornings). Last week’s books focused on the Special Needs Ministry of a church. Since we are on the ground floor here at OVCF on getting one started they were especially relevant to those interested. I have picked a different type of book this week to highlight. They are of a much more sensitive nature, but certainly are very appropriate for the day and time in which we live.

SUICIDE
An unpleasant subject to be sure but one we are faced with more and more. What do we say?
What do we do? How should we react? These books give some insight into those questions.

• • • Hope Always-Dr. Matthew Sleeth. Dr. Sleeth is a former ER physician and chief of hospital medical staff who resigned to teach, preach, and write about faith and health. This 2021 book was very helpful on how to be a force for life in a culture of suicide.
    • Fear Gone Wild– Kayla Stoecklein’s husband was a pastor who suffered from mental illness and took his own life at the age of 30. Deeply personal and emotional, this book helped me understand mental illness and its effect in a deeper way.
    • Grieving a Suicide– Albert Y. Hsu-This is a deeply personal account of college professor, Mr. Hsu, and how he found comfort, answers and hope in the wake of his father’s suicide.

PRAYERS REQUESTED:

By the time you will be receiving the next MM, Aaron and Sonia Clausman will be on their way to her home country of Pakistan for both a family reunion (and their first in person time with Brielle) and also some mission work. They will be leaving May 26th and return June 16th. During their time in Pakistan they will be visiting the slums where the Gospel has not been taken, as well as sharing hygiene material with the slaves. Their desire is to share the Gospel with a thousand people while there and to baptize as many as possible before they return. This coming Sunday in the second service, we will be praying for them specifically. But you can pray for them NOW! Any support can be directed to them as well.

This coming Sunday I will be continuing my series on The “Perfect” Christian with a sermon from James 1:19-27 entitled Have To or Want To? Do we serve because we have to or because we want to? I look forward to sharing the Word with you on Sunday. Know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #292

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #292. Sunday was a special day for the ladies. I hope you took the time to let the woman in your life how important she is to you. Wife. Mother. Grandmother. Aunt. Daughter.😊 And I hope this week is treating you well.

SUNDAY IS GRADUATE RECOGNITION DAY!

We have a number of high school and college graduates to recognize this year. I’m thinking it is the most that we have had in the past few years. I will include a list of all the graduates with their plans for the future in next week’s MM. Meanwhile, please plan to be here for second service (10:45) to celebrate their achievements with us.

SEVERAL PEOPLE RECEIVED SOME RECOGNITION THIS WEEK!

• • We will start off with one of our young people, Charlotte Pavich. Charlotte’s picture was included in Friday Fun Facts that Kris Samick puts together for S-OCS during the school year. Charlotte ran a 5k for Girls on the Run Club, which is sponsored by the Y. Charlotte is a 3rd grader at Patricksburg Elementary, and the daughter of Joe & Emily Pavich. Way to go Charlotte! Keep up the exercise and good work!
  • Our very own Tiffany Kropack represented H&R Block by speaking to the Economics class at OVHS on taxes. Is this a new take on “The TaxMan (Woman) Cometh”?
  • Caleb Hutchison was officially awarded District 5 Conservation Officer of the Year. His wife, Amanda, wrote a glowing tribute to him on Facebook. She wrote: “Being named District 5 Conservation Officer of the Year is such an amazing honor and there is truly no one more deserving of this award. This job isn’t just something he does; it is truly who he is! His love for what he does shows in everything he does. Whether he’s on duty or off, he’s always looking out for others and serving his community! But what makes me the most proud as his wife isn’t just the award, it’s the man behind it! Congratulations
    babe! I love you so much!” I see Caleb at the Y from time to time and I can concur with Amanda that he loves his job; he loves his wife; and he loves his two children, Addi and Owen (even though Owen won’t share his Goldfish or Cheetos with me). 😊 I remember many years ago when I first met Caleb and as he took the test to become a Conservation Officer he said, “Pastor Bill. This is the job I have wanted all my life.” I’d say this award proves his love for his job. Congrats, Caleb on a job well done!!

ONE MORE TIME (FOR NOW)

I mentioned in last week’s MM that I have plans to start Route 66 (just called 66 by many) in September after school starts. 66 is a tour through all 66 books of the Bible. We generally take one book a week and hit the highlights, enough to familiarize you with the contents of the book and its integration into the whole Biblical narrative. We meet on Wednesday nights from 6-7:00. We also take breaks for holidays, special occasions, and the summer. I hand out materials each week for you to keep for future reference. I just wanted to put a “bug in your ear” so you can be thinking about being a part of this class. I’ll bring it up again in about a month or so and then look for a sign-up sheet Diana will set out on the info table. I will remind you again.

FROM THE “IT NEVER HURTS TO BE INFORMED” DEPARTMENT:

I did something last week in the office I had never done before: I went through my books and looked for certain subjects and then placed those books in the church library. In all honesty, I have a lot of books, so much so that I no longer have a place for them. They sit sideways on top of other books, so I decided to put them to good use and make them available to you to borrow and read. Over the next couple of MMs, I’m going to highlight a set of books by subject so you can see what there is to read. If anything should happen to me or should I retire, there is a destination already designed for my library (and no it is not a presidential one that requires a multi-million dollar building to house it). 😊 Until then though, I simply feel I cannot keep it to
myself. All I ask is that you sign the book out and then please bring it back when you are done.
Here you go:

IN THE BIG “YAY!” DEPARTMENT:

Bowen Matthew Wyatt made his appearance on Thursday, April 30th. He weighed in at 7lb 11oz and measured 19.9 inches long. Congratulations to Brayton and Zoe Wyatt on their new addition. Older sister, Hazel, is so excited to have a younger brother! {Becca Anderson announced this past Sunday that a meal train will be set up for them beginning next week. Make sure you check out the church’s Facebook Group for more info and to sign up}.

SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY:

• • Accessible Church-Sandra Peoples- A Gospel-Centered Vision for including people with disabilities and their families. This has been very helpful as we have begun laying the groundwork for a Special Needs Ministry (SNM).
  • Unbroken Faith– Diane Dokko Kim- Spiritual recovery for the special needs parent. When her first son was diagnosed with autism and ADHD/ADD at age 2, Diane struggled personally, professionally and spiritually. It led her to a deeper walk with Christ and to start as a disability ministry consultant.
  • The Accessible Church-Kerri-Ann Hayes (not to be confused with the first book listed). This helpful book shows how a church can be a welcoming place for a child/family with a special-needs child.
  • Same Lake Different Boat– Stephanie O. Hubach- Coming alongside people touched by disability. It helps churches/individuals rethink and relearn how to support others.
  • Boundless Hope for every child-Kim Botto-This has been one of our go-to books for our ministry plan. Kim lives and ministers to special needs families in Cincinnati.

FROM THE “YOU CAN HELP” DEPARTMENT:

Every year, starting on Mother’s Day, New Beginning Pregnancy Resource Center has their Change for Life fundraiser. They ask you to take a baby bottle (on the info table), fill it with change, cash or a check and return it by Father’s Day. You may also donate online through their Facebook page or website:

newbeginningsowen.org

We invite you to help support this vital ministry. OVCF supports it on a monthly basis.

This week’s message is Tripped by Temptation from James 1:13-18. I look forward to continuing this series on James with you. See you then, if not before. Know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #291

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #291. I hope you are having a great week! It is always interesting to me how life changes from week to week, or maybe even day to day. Chances are good this week will look nothing like last week, unless, of course, you have kids playing ball. I was speaking to some parents this past Thursday at the ball field and they are there E.V.E.R.Y night! In their case, 3 children playing on 2 different teams every night of the week. I remember a scene from a movie where the main character got in his vehicle and said, “Home” and it drove him there. I think many parents could say, “Ballfield” and their vehicle could automatically drive there.😊 At the same time, I love the parents’ involvement in their kids’ lives. Spending time with your children is never a lost activity.

SPEAKING OF YOUTH AND BALL GAMES:

I have a few more young people playing ball:

• • Berkley Groomer is playing 6U softball
  • Abi Wiegand is playing Tball for Elite Electric
  • Gannon Wiegand is playing 10U baseball
  • Alex and Ethan Koons are playing 10U baseball
  • Auggie Wood is playing flag football, but also 10U baseball
  • {Note: Abigail, Alex, Ethan and Gannon are Erich and JuliAnne Wiegand’s grandchildren}

IMPORTANT AND BIG STUFF TO KNOW!

May 5, 2025 we hired Hannah Pendleton on a part-time basis to be our Children’s Director, focusing on our children in the nursery through 6th grade. She has done a phenomenal job as Pastor Ryan has mentored her. She has come into her own and is making some welcome changes to the rooms, as well as investigating different options for curriculum, among other improvements. She has also taken the reins of the Special Needs Ministry and is slowly working on getting that up and running. (It is not an easy task).

In her spare time, 😊, she is also a nanny to a family in Bloomington. She spent this past weekend away on a solo camping trip. It was very much needed. This Wednesday, May 6th, the staff is celebrating with her by taking her to her favorite place to eat for lunch: Chick-fil-A. (We tried for China Star but found out she is not a big fan of Chinese food, but we won’t hold that against her).

CONGRATULATIONS ON YEAR #1 HANNAH!
WE ARE GLAD YOU ARE PART OF OUR TEAM!!

Let her know how much you appreciate her and the work she is doing for the children at OVCF.

IN THE BIG “YAY!” DEPARTMENT:

Bowen Matthew Wyatt made his appearance on Thursday, April 30th. He weighed in at 7lb 11oz and measured 19.9 inches long. Congratulations to Brayton and Zoe Wyatt on their new addition. Older sister, Hazel, is so excited to have a younger brother! {Becca Anderson announced this past Sunday that a meal train will be set up for them beginning next week. Make sure you check out the church’s Facebook Group for more info and to sign up}.

SOMETHING TO PRAY ABOUT THIS MONTH:

We have three couples expecting babies this month:

• • Sarah & Will Schneider are to have their little one this coming Sunday. That would give new meaning to Mother’s Day!
  • Caleb & Gabrielle Corder are to have their little one on the 29th.
  • Adam & Cecilia Fox (Scott & Heather Herrington’s daughter and son-in-law) are also due this month.

SOMETHING HELD OVER FROM LAST WEEK:

Aaron and Sonia Clausman (and Brielle) will be returning to visit her native Pakistan and do mission work from May 26-June 16. While there, not only will Sonia’s parents get their first glimpse of Brielle in person,  they also have plans to do some mission work. They will be visiting the slums where no one goes. The Gospel has not been shared with them due to the distance to get there and also the funds which are needed to do so. They also want to bless the women with hygiene material. These women are slaves with no education. They have asked prayer for the team as they travel and for their efforts while there. Their desire is to share the Gospel with a thousand people while there and to baptize as many as possible before they return. Prayers and support would be greatly appreciated.

SOMETHING FOR YOU TO PONDER:

I know it’s probably early to be thinking about this, but then again, maybe it is never too early to put something before you to consider. If there has been one question which I have been asked over the past month or so more than just about any other question, it is this: Do you have a Wednesday night Bible study? The answer has been “No.” I took a much-needed year off (after almost 10 straight years) from Route 66 (just called 66), but I am considering offering it again. For those who might be wondering what it is, Route 66 is a study through the 66 books of the Bible. It is an overview of every book. We meet from 6-7:00 each Wednesday night (except for holidays, summer break and other rare occasions). It takes about 2 years to go through the course. I’m letting you know so you can think about it. In a month or so I will have Diana put out
a sign-up sheet to gauge interest. It will start in September after Labor Day.

CHANGES ARE COMING to the MM! During the summer the MM will be every other week instead of every week. Still the same great content (AHEM) but less often. 😊

As I mentioned Sunday, I began a series on the book of James called The “Perfect” Christian. I spoke this past week about trials. My sermon Sunday is titled The “Perfect” Woman. Just so you know…I plan to explain the word “perfect” in James 1:4, but then speak about some ladies who are examples of that word. I look forward to sharing it with you. Until then…know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #290

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #290! I hope you are having a fantastic week! We will be in May by the end of this week and rumor has it there might be a teacher or two or three (as well as students) who are counting down the days. I was chatting with one of our graduating seniors and asked her if she was looking forward to being done. Her dad was standing there and he said, “She has a countdown going.” She promptly pulled out her phone and told me however many days, hours, and minutes were left until she was done. I’d say Alli Anderson is ready for graduation.😊

SPEAKING OF GRADUATION:

Every year we honor our high school and college graduates with special recognition. This year is no different. If you are a high school or college graduate, or the parent of one, would you please make sure Pastor Ryan, Diana, or Hannah know? We have set Sunday, May 17th as the day to celebrate our graduates during the second service.

DON’T FORGET THIS!

You will get this MM on Wednesday. Just a little reminder that our monthly church family pitch-in is tonight at 6:00. Come join us, share some laughter and get to know your church family a little better.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU & GOOD NEWS:

This past Saturday evening was the initial kick-off event for a new group for families with children 6th grade and under called SPROUTS.

• • • The meal was provided by the church and many ladies came through in helping make it successful. I will not mention names because you should know me by now. I will surely omit  someone. 😊So please just accept a huge group “Thank you” from all those who were there.
    • A special thanks to Alli Anderson, Eliza Chambers, Carolyn Myers, Hannah Pendleton, and Aasha Srinivasan for helping with taking care of the kiddos while the adults talked about what they hope to see. Pastor Ryan also made an appearance to support the helpers and spend a little time with the kiddos. They all shared a meal together and then the children had some fun time of their own.
    • The initial expected attendance was 22 adults and 32 kids. With a few last minute cancellations due to schedules, we still had 48 there. WOW! What a great turnout and the input received was welcomed.
    • The next scheduled get together is June 27th at Robert & Becca Anderson’s. More info will come as we get closer to that date.

YOUTH NEWS:

And those baseball/softball schedules just keep on coming!

• • • Dax Bell is playing 8U baseball.
    • Kalia Keene is playing 12U Softball.
    • Easton Elliot is playing T-Ball. (Patience mom and dad!) 😊
    • Trevor Floyd plays bass for our worship team. This past Tuesday night he was in the OV Jazz Night. Lucas Guy (son of Matt & Tiara) played in the OVMS Jazz Band. We are proud of you both!
    • I failed to mention Sunday morning to pray for Christian Wells. Jenna, his mom, said he decided to ride his bike without a helmet and take on the steepest hill on the property. Sister Emmy found him. Multiple stitches later he made it home and is recuperating. Jenna said it could have been worse and is grateful for God’s protection and grace over Christian. Amen to that!
    • Please continue to pray for Annie Wisely (Kathy’s granddaughter/ Daniel and Emmaly’s daughter). She had surgery Saturday and developed a reaction to the medication and is now back on IV  antibiotics. Another surgery is scheduled for today (Wednesday). She will be in Riley until they get things figured out.
    • Minnie Pendleton, Hannah’s cousin, is 10 years old. She has been diagnosed with aggressive leukemia. She will be in Norton’s Children’s Hospital in Louisville for a month for treatment and then have 2 1⁄2 years of chemo.
    • Pray for Brayton, Zoe and Hazel Wyatt. Zoe is having a C-section today! Pray that Bowen makes a healthy entrance into the world and for a good recovery for Zoe. We will do a Meal Train for their family soon! Please watch for that information! 😊
    • A PRAISE! Julie Allen says her new grandson is 3 weeks old and doing great. He was in NICU for 8 days to get his breathing figured out, but now he is totally healthy and at home.

SPECIAL REQUEST:

Aaron and Sonia Clausman (and Brielle) will be returning to visit her native Pakistan and do mission work from May 26-June 16. While there, not only will Sonia’s parents get their first glimpse of Brielle in person,  they also have plans to do some mission work. They will be visiting the slums where no one goes. The Gospel has not been shared with them due to the distance to get there and also the funds which are needed to do so. They also want to bless the women with hygiene material. These women are slaves with no education. They have asked prayer for the team as they travel and for their efforts while there. Their desire is to share the
Gospel with a thousand people while there and to baptize as many as possible before they return. Prayers and support would be greatly appreciated.

I concluded my two month series on The Road to the Other Side last Sunday when I spoke about death and heaven (the ultimate ending). This Sunday I will begin a new series I’m calling The “Perfect” Christian. We will be studying the book of James during this time. This Sunday my message is Troubled by Trials from James 1:1-12. I look forward to sharing it with you. If I don’t see you out and about, I look forward to seeing you Sunday. And…as always…know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #289

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #289. I hope you are having a great week and the rest of the week gets even better.

IMPORTANT UPCOMING EVENTS:

1. First up is the SPROUTS meal this coming Saturday from 5-7:00.

• • • • Purpose: to connect families with children 6th grade and younger. The goal is to provide friendship and fun for those families.
      • RSVP to Becca Anderson (812.360.7419 or via Facebook Messenger if you would like to attend (for food planning only).
      • Future get-togethers are planned at the Anderson compound for cookouts, discussion and just getting to know others in similar stages of life.
      • Help is still needed with food. {contact Becca for up to date info}

2. Second is this coming Sunday. The Special Needs Ministry (SNM) is still in the birthing stages but is moving ahead. I mentioned in last week’s MM that a person has been asked to lead the SNM. Since this is a volunteer ministry we have given this person time to pray and think through this commitment.

• • • • To help facilitate this person’s decision and to also get a good look for ourselves, Hannah Pendleton (our Children’s Director) has been in touch with a person from Northside Church in New Albany, where they have an active SNM. This coming Sunday, Pastor Ryan, Hannah and the other person will be making their way to Northside for a personal visit and observation. Please be praying for their safety on this trip but also an eye-opening and solidifying visit.
      • Starting a ministry like this is not a quick thing nor is it an easy one. We want to do it right and this is just one step into making it vital to OVCF and to our community.

3. Third, is the church family pitch-in on Wednesday, the 29th at 6 PM. I would love to see
you join us for some great food, a ton of laughter, and some great fellowship.

YOUTH NEWS:

I feel like there ought to be a drumroll since there is so much going on with our young people. I’d like to remind you that I can only put in this MM what I know. 😊 (Sort of makes sense doesn’t it?) Here is what I have for this week: (not in alphabetical order)

• • • • Cecilia Arnold and Tad Nicholson were both recognized for being on the all A’s Honor Roll for the 3rd quarter at OVMS.
      • Kale Hatton was recognized for being on the A/B Honor Roll at OVMS for the 3rd quarter.
      • Lucas Arnold was on the A/B Honor Roll for the 6th grade.
      • Marci Arnold was on the A Honor Roll for the 2nd grade
        (Cecilia, Lucas and Marci are the grandchildren of Melissa Arnold. I won’t say she is a
        proud grandmother…but she did give me their names and awards!) 😊
      • Alethea Humble, an 11 year old student from Mrs. Harrison’s 4th grade class (Clay City) has earned an incredible honor through her submission to the International Violin Competition Art showcase. I’m going to let the words of her teacher, Mrs. Staci Shafter, Clay City Art Teacher, tell you the story: “She created a striking black-and-white pencil drawing of a violin-choosing to stand out by going a different direction than her peers. She even left it untitled, letting the work speak entirely for itself. Her artwork was first selected to represent Clay City Elementary as the top piece from her grade. From there, it went on to compete at the state level, where Alethea was named the Indiana Regional Winner out of 120 student entries. From hundreds of submissions, she advanced even further-earning the prestigious Hadley Matthew’s Grand Award Winner distinction, an honor given to only 30 students worldwide. On Sunday, May 3rd, Alethea will be formally recognized, receiving her award, prize winnings, and having her artwork featured in a traveling international exhibit. We are incredibly proud of Alethea’s creativity, courage to be different, and the hard work that led her to this moment.” All I can say is, “WOW!” Way to go, Alethea!! Alethea is the daughter of Wade and Sarah Stoliby.
      • Rumor has it Marla Lippert got her first turkey this past Sunday when she went hunting with her dad. She drew the line on plucking it and dressing it though. 😊 Congrats, Marla!

IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR!

We need your help! Every year we have been blessed by those who see it as a ministry to help by mowing the church grounds. An added bonus is there is even less to mow with the new addition. 😊 We provide a ZTR mower, trimmer and gas for those who would like to help. There is a sign-up sheet at the info table if you would like to help us. If you have any questions please contact Pastor Ryan or Diana.

IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR (X 2)!

We consider it an honor to recognize our high school and college graduates. OVCF is proud of each of them and want to show them that we are. If you are graduating from high school or college this year, please give your name to Pastor Ryan or to Diana. Graduate Sunday will take place on May 17th during our second service.

Because Diana edits this I know she will either dislike me a lot or tell me to delete this section of the MM. But since she calls me “Boss” (she is “Lady Boss”), I have final say over what goes in the MM. 😊 This Wednesday is Administrative Professionals Day. We missed celebrating last year and I can’t even remember why. But not this year! Diana and I started working at OVCF the same time-November of 2005-and we have been through quite an adventure together! Every year her responsibilities have increased, especially as the church has grown. She is a vital cog in the wheel of making OVCF efficient, especially in the office. Her responsibilities ramped up even more with the new addition and all it has entailed. So Wednesday, the four of us-Pastor Ryan, Hannah, Diana, and I-will be going to China Star to celebrate Diana. I’m honored to have served with her the past 21 years.

This Sunday my series on The Road to the Other Side concludes with The Satisfying Savior. I will
be looking at death and heaven-the eternal “other side.” Starting May 3rd I’ll be preaching a
series on James called The “Perfect” Christian. I look forward to seeing you Sunday. Know you
are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #288

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #288. I hope you are having a great week so far. Last week gave us a great foretaste of Spring, but also reminded us we live in Indiana.😊

YOUTH NEWS:

• • Alli Anderson and Aubrey Mangia are on the OVHS track team.
  • Coach Tom Mangia told me that he has several boys from the church on his team: his son, Jordan; Draven Stahl; Winston and Barrett Zigler.
  • I’m guessing there are more boys and girls playing ball this summer. Please let me know so I can include them and Jo and I can attend.
  • Keaton Jackson, the young man we have prayed for and has gone through cancer treatment, is practicing and will soon be able to play for the Clay City Eels High School baseball team.
  • Tad Nicholson was chosen as a True Patriot for the middle school this past week. When I asked his mom what that is she said, “Teachers choose a student that they feel shows the following characteristics: Perseverance, Academic Excellence, Tenacity, Character, Loyalty and Respect.” He was chosen by Matt Beckwith who says, “He always comes ready to do his best and to lead by example.” I think mom and dad were sorta proud (as well they should be). Way to go Tad!!

MORE ABOUT THAT NEW MINISTRY:

In an effort to connect families who have children in the Grade 6 and younger group, SPROUTS has been started. (In case you are wondering, the name is a take-off of Pastor Ryan’s two groups for teens: Deeper and Roots). Here are the details:

• • Kickoff event: Dinner on April 25th from 5:00-7:00 PM at OVCF.
  • Purpose: to provide friendship and fun for the families in that age group
  • RSVP to Becca Anderson at 812.360.7419 or through Facebook Messenger
  • Future get-togethers are planned to be at the Anderson homestead for cookouts, discussion and getting to know others with common interests and future ideas.

We need help though!

• • As I said last week in the MM, busy moms and dads need a night out so the meal is going to be provided by the church. We could sure use your help in pulling that off. Here is the menu:
    • • Spaghetti
      • Red and/or white sauce
      • Garlic bread
      • Salad
      • Fruit and/or veggie tray
      • Dessert (cookies are fine)
      • Drinks (iced tea or lemonade)

There is a sign-up sheet on the info table if you would like to help provide any of the above items. At this point we have no idea how many to expect.

• • Childcare will be provided by an adult with help from the teens.

SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY UPDATE:

Several months ago I talked about and wrote in the MM that we were looking into starting a Special Needs Ministry (SNM) at OVCF. I’d like to bring you up to date on where we are at.

• • Hannah Pendleton and I asked parents who were interested in a SNM to attend a meeting to get ideas and to gauge interest in the ministry. The response was phenomenal! Some great ideas were shared.
  • A person has been asked to lead the SNM. We have given this person time to think, pray and decide since it is a big undertaking and would be a volunteer position initially. No decision has been made as of this writing.
  • One of the valuable approaches to any ministry, especially one starting out new, is to check around and see what other churches are/are not doing. Hannah has done just that. On Sunday, April 26th, she, Pastor Ryan, and the other person will be visiting Northside Christian Church in New Albany to see their SNM in action. Please pray for a good, eye-opening and God-honoring visit.
  • In the meantime, keep praying about this ministry!!

NEW BUILDING UPDATE:

Many have asked how things are going and what is next. Here is some information in a nutshell:

• • End of March: we paid JL Benton $42,295 for spray foam insulation, AV wiring, platform edit, and electrical rough-in
  • This month: we will owe approximately $24,840 to JLB for blown-in (attic) insulation, hanging drywall, their fees.
  • Next to be done: HVAC. The elders are finding out the details for a total cost to finish our  project.

BOOK TO CONSIDER READING:
With all that is going on in our world ideologically, it is absolutely essential that we know what others are thinking so we can use the truth of God’s Word to counteract what we hear. I mentioned Sunday that I finished reading Transformed by Kyla Gillespie last week. Transgenderism is a “staple” in our daily diet so it is important to know what goes through the mind of those who want to change their gender. If you want to know or you know of someone who is struggling with gender dysphoria or is considering this radical life change, you need to read this book.

My series on The Road to the Other Side will finish on Sunday, the 26th. I have been working on the next series…one on James I am calling The “Perfect” Christian, which will begin May 3rd. I’ll tell you more in the next MM. Until then, my sermon Sunday is The Show-Me Savior and the Scripture will be from I Cor. 12:12-27. I look forward to sharing it with you Sunday. Until then…know you are loved.
Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #287

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #287! It is good to have you join me as I try to give an overview of our church family and all that is happening. Thanks for taking the time to read this edition.

Our educator prayer focus this week is Tom Arthur and Duane Potts, Principal and Assistant Principal at OVMS. Pray for wisdom and direction as they lead the students and faculty.

NEW MINISTRY TO START!!

Last Thursday a group young ladies/mothers met with Becca Anderson and me to talk about starting a new ministry. Several of the young mothers have asked both Becca and me about a small group Bible study so we decided to put our heads together and consider a meal and ask some of the mothers to help. There were 6 moms there and we had a great discussion with some good ideas. Here is some information:

• • Name: SPROUTS
  • Who is it for? Connecting families who have children 6th grade and younger.
  • Kickoff event: Dinner on April 25th from 5:00-7:00 PM at OVCF.
  • RSVP to Becca Anderson at 812.360.7419 or through Facebook Messenger
  • Purpose: To provide friendship and fun for the families in that age group.
  • Future get-togethers will be at the Anderson homestead for cookouts and discussion and getting to know others with common interests, which could include small group studies.
  • Much thanks to Eliza Chambers and Aasha Srinivasan for providing childcare during the
    meeting.

HOW YOU CAN HELP!

The meal on April 25th is going to be provided by the church. Busy moms and dads need a night out! 😊The menu is:

• • Spaghetti
  • White sauce
  • Red sauce
  • Garlic bread
  • Salad
  • Fruit tray
  • Veggie tray
  • Dessert
  • Drinks
  • Ice

There will be a sign-up sheet on the info table this Sunday if you would like to help provide any of the above items. We have no clue yet how many to expect but will keep you informed.

• • Childcare will also be provided by some of our teens.

YOUTH NEWS!

• • Congratulations to Rachel East upon making the high school cheer squad!
  • Double good news for Draven Stahl this week! First, he passed his i-Read test. That means no summer school and moving up to 4th grade. Second, he was also chosen as a Top Cat for his 3rd grade class.
  • Garrett Brinson (grandson to Brad and Tara Brinson) was chosen as a Top Cat for his 3rd grade class! Both Draven and Garrett are in Mr. Wright’s class.
  • Both Kale Hatton and Tad Nicholson made the OVMS baseball team. Congrats to you both!
  • Congratulations to Dane Stahl-he was recognized as MVP for the OV freshman basketball team and also received Most Improved for the JV team!

LET’S TALK RESURRECTION SUNDAY!

• • Enough thanks cannot be passed around to everyone who helped Saturday and Sunday. I will not try to list people because there were so many I know I will miss someone. We had men and women who helped get chairs at Abram Farms, set up all the chairs, move equipment, return chairs, carry chairs from the addition to the old auditorium, make coffee, staff the coffee bar and treat tables, greet people, pass out bulletins, direct traffic, provide shuttle rides, welcome people, and just make this old pastor’s heart happy watching the church be a home to people.
  • If I may brag a bit: I’m proud of Jo for doing the Power Point. She had to redo much of it on Saturday afternoon but worst of all for her was having to sit up front. 😊
  • I’m thankful for the teachers and nursery workers who gave themselves to the kids under their care. No one really knows what you all did in your service for Jesus.
  • Now for the stats:
    • • Attendance (includes children’s programs): 410 (yes, you read that right!)
      • Offering: $6,367.29 (divided among the missions we support in the amount of $578.84 per mission group). In addition, $1,165 was given designated to the Building Fund.
  • We are evaluating the day to see what we did right, what we might need to change, and how to make things better. We are just so appreciative of you coming and enjoying the day with us.

Don’t forget that we will be back to our regular schedule in the place we have been meeting for the past 14 years (we remodeled in 2012 in order to meet where we do). My message this Sunday will be The Sending  Savior from Matthew 28:16-20 and Acts 1-2. It is the start of something big as Jesus leaves His followers with a challenge; they see it fulfilled; and that same challenge is for us today. I look forward to sharing it and seeing you Sunday. Until then…know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #286

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #286! By the time you get this we will be  right in the middle of what is considered the final week of Jesus. I hope you have taken the time to contemplate what this week means in the life of the Christ-follower. Stay tuned later in this MM for special information about Resurrection Sunday events.

Pray this week for Robert Boltinghouse and Jake Steinmetz, principal and assistant principal of OVHS as our educators of the week.

Here is something I don’t get to tell too often:
I typically spend some time each MM telling you about our young people and some of their awards, exploits, etc. Very seldom have I had the opportunity to share with you about a college student. Here is one straight from her mom:

Annalei Dow dives for the University of Minnesota. During her sophomore season she earned qualifying scores to attend the NCAA Zones (there are 5 of these Zones competitions across the country) at Texas A&M a couple of weeks ago to compete at the NCAA Division 1 National Championships. Only 11 girls qualified to move on in the Platform event from this meet. She earned that privilege! This past weekend (the weekend of the 15th) she competed in the NCAA championships held at Georgia Tech. The stage HUGE. She was one of only 81 divers from across the US to quality for this event. The talent was amazing and it was incredible to watch. Unfortunately, as a sophomore, she let her nerves the get the better of her. Although she didn’t accomplish her goal (finish in the top 25) she still performed well and placed 38th in the nation! At the end, she told us her goal was just not to finish in last place. 😊She walked away from her memorable week with an amazing experience, fun memories with her teammates, a huge accomplishment and great learning lesson to work towards next year! We are so proud of her dedication throughout these years. She has spent countless hours practicing, managing her time and learning to deal with pressure of being a D1 athlete. Oh, as well, she does a great job of balancing her schoolwork. She earned a spot on the Big 10 All-Academic Team with a GPA of 3.94! Although the result was not exactly what we hoped for, we are so proud of her and her accomplishments.

I bet you couldn’t tell that Chad and Terri are proud of Annalei.😊 Well done Annalei! I’m excited to see her GPA! That is phenomenal work!

Here is another of our young people to notice!

• • Congratulations to Meilynn Hess! She is the 2026 Owen County Art Guild Scholarship recipient! She is being honored at the Art Guild this Saturday, April 4, from 2:30-4:30. Refreshments will be served. Take a few moments to honor Meilynn this Saturday.

Here is another event worth celebrating! Congratulations to Abigail Clausman and Cole Brown upon their baptisms at the YMCA this past Sunday. Abigail has been attending ROOTS and is the sister to Elijah and Aaron. Sonia is her sister-in-law.

HERE IS YOUR SOURCE FOR ALL THINGS RESURRECTION SUNDAY!

• • We are excited to tell you that our Resurrection Sunday services will be in our new addition.
    There will be one service at 10:00.
  • The children’s programs (Nursery through Grade 6) will meet as usual in their current classrooms.
  • We want you to know that Sunday will be “rough.” The addition is not finished. Carpet is not on the floor. The HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work is not finished. The stage is not finished. (See what I mean by “rough”?) We will have a screen but not TVs for better viewing. So we are going to need your patience and understanding to make this work.
  • We will have some propane heaters to warm the building but please dress appropriately.
  • There will be Power Point and a live stream.
  • HERE IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP!
    • • We will need help moving 150 chairs from Abram Farms to our building. We will start at 10:00 on Saturday at Abram Farms.
      • After Sunday’s service we will need help taking them back.
      • We will need help moving chairs from our current building and setting them up in the addition on Saturday morning (again at 10:00).
      • We will need help moving worship equipment to our new addition and taking it back afterwards.
      • Because our parking space is limited, if you can help by parking at either Henry Holsters (building to the north of our property) or Abram Farms, that would be appreciated.
      • We will also need help shuttling people from Henry Holsters and Abram Farms and then taking them back after the service. If you are willing to help, please talk to Pastor Ryan.

ABOVE ALL WE ASK THAT YOU BE PATIENT WITH LESS THAN IDEAL CONDITIONS. LET’S JUST CELEBRATE THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS AND PRAISE GOD THAT WE CAN DO THAT IN OUR NEW ADDITION.

• • One more important item: for the past several years we have been giving our Easter offering to the missions we support. That will NOT change. Unless designated, all offering this Sunday will be given to missions. God has blessed us tremendously and this is our opportunity to say thanks to Him by blessing others. God has always been good to us and has always provided for our needs. This also gives us a chance to bless others who are taking the message of Christ to people we will never be able to reach.

As expected, my message Sunday will be on the Resurrection of Jesus, entitled The Surprising Savior from John 19:38-20:10. I look forward to celebrating with you this Sunday. Until then, know you are loved more than you realize.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #285

Hello, everyone! After taking a break last week for Spring Break and being gone for several days, it is good to be back with you. I hope you had a good week off and had a chance to travel or relax (or both). Needless to say, it is back to the ‘ol grind. I want to say a big THANK YOU to Tom Mangia for preaching for me this past Sunday. I hear that my job is in jeopardy. 😊 I’m so glad Tom was willing to fill in for me while I was gone. He also helped Pastor Ryan out after his crazy week. So “Thanks, Tom” from both of us.

DON’T FORGET!!

This Wednesday, March 25th is our church family pitch-in starting at 6:00. We also plan to open the door into the new addition for you to take a peek around if you would like.

A NOTE FROM HANNAH:
I asked Hannah Pendleton, our children’s director, to write something for this week’s MM. She knows the subject much better than I do and I thought it wise to let her tell you about something special. Here are Hannah’s words:

• • • In remembrance of Jasmine St. John and her love for books and little ones, “Jasmine’s Little Library” has been created and is located in the Preschool classroom. The shelves contain books highlighting Bible stories, forgiveness, loss, special needs, and other topics. These books are resources made available for you to borrow. I just ask that you message me with the title of the book you are taking. 😊You may contact me at 812.821.7360 or hannahpendleton3896@gmail.com

Jasmine did love books. She had obtained “home library status” (which means she had 1000+ books) and was a teacher in our Preschool classroom. Parents, make sure you check out that book shelf and the books available!

YOUTH NEWS:

• • • This is from the department of “It never seems to stop” i.e. Pastor Bill getting something wrong in the MM. I mentioned in MM#284 that Charli Wood sang in the 8th grade choir. I was wrong on both counts. First, she is in 9th grade. (First head slap). Second, she is in the Owen Valley Soundwaves show choir! (Second head slap). Sorry, Charli!😄
    • Congrats to Tad Nicholson! Tad was awarded the Team Player Award for the 8th grade boys’ basketball team.
    • Congrats also to Amelia Biggs! She was awarded the Mental Attitude Award for the 7th grade girls’ basketball team.
    • Many of you do not know Keaton Jackson, except by name only. Keaton has fought cancer since he was 7 years old and most recently was on our prayer list as he went through another battle. His mother, Jessica, texted me a picture of Keaton receiving the Academic Achievement Award from Clay City High School for 2026. Fighting cancer, studying from home, and earning this achievement is worthy of mention.

WORTH CELEBRATING: Congratulations to Gavin and Jenna Wells & family. Their adoption
of Gwendolyn (Zara) was official on Monday!! 😄

BUILDING UPDATE:

Much has been happening the past couple of weeks! Here is a brief wrap-up of everything with some news about the future:

• • • The stage/platform has been modified to give additional seating.
    • Spray foam insulation of the walls is completed.
    • Plumbing, electric, HVAC and AV/internet wiring have all been roughed in.
    • Drywall is to be hung (but not finished) and insulation will be blown in starting this week.
    • WE WILL STOP AT THIS POINT! (See below)

What does all this mean?

• • • It means the adults will be meeting in the new addition for one service on Resurrection Sunday morning. The young people will continue to use the current facilities as they normally do. We will have some electricity, but no plumbing or HVAC. We will use some propane heaters to heat the facility but I suggest you dress appropriately.
    • We are grateful to Abram Farm for allowing us to use some of their chairs for the morning.
    • We are also grateful to Henry Holsters (business behind McCormick’s Creek Rehab and Abram Farm (if needed) for extra parking. If the weather is dry, some may try parking on the east side of our parking lot where the future parking expansion is planned.

So…why stop at this point? We said all along we would only do what we can with cash in hand. Since we don’t want to deplete our Building Fund, we are stopping to replenish it so we can finish the addition. Some things cost more than expected. Some adjustments had to be made along the way. The elders and Building Team members have been aware of everything as we have proceeded and it has been decided to wait to finish things (like drywall, the nursery, and the bathrooms). We will proceed as money is available.

Just so you know: I had a big change of plans this past weekend. Jo & I did not go to PA to celebrate my brother, Rob’s 50th anniversary in the ministry. Gwendolyn’s adoption took precedence in my heart and mind; and since Tom was already preaching for me, we decided to visit our family in Ohio. We missed being with you Sunday. This coming Sunday my message is The Sin-laden Savior. We sometimes hear people talk about the Passion of the Christ. What exactly does that mean? Find out Sunday. I do look forward to seeing you. Until then…know you are loved.

Pastor Bill

MIDWEEK MESSAGE #284

Hello everyone and welcome to Midweek Message #284. I hope you are having a good week and the effects from turning the clock ahead have subsided. Tami thought Jo and I were a little crazy (she called me a cheater) because we went to bed just a little after 8:00 Saturday night. Besides it having been a long week and weekend (a wedding in Brown County Park shelter) on Saturday, I knew I had to get some sleep! So, yes, I cheated. 😄

Let me remind you to pray for our educators of the week: Brittany Green (Principal) and Aaron LaGrange (Assistant Principal) at SES. I assured them we would be praying for them.

YOUTH NEWS DEPARTMENT:

• • • I made my first mistake all year (ahem!) in last week’s MM. When I mentioned Hudsyn Biggs’ team won their 9U division, I failed to mention that Winston Zigler is also on that same team. Sorry Winston! Please don’t go all hockey on me. 😄(He and his brother, Barrett, are playing hockey for the first time. They love it from what I hear!).
    • Congratulations to Akaydia Beckwith. Grandpa David posted on FB that she qualified for NBHA Worlds to be held in Georgia in July! Akaydia has become quite the accomplished barrel racer. As her grandpa David said, “Cowgirl Up!”
    • Jo & I attended the OV Fine Arts Festival this past Sunday at OVHS. We saw Trevor Floyd perform in the Indoor Drumline Program and also the Big Band performance in the café. Several of our other young people also performed in the concert (which we missed). Charli Wood sings in the 8th grade choir. Cooper, her brother, sings in the 7th grade choir. Sadly, Rusti O’Neal woke up sick Sunday morning so she was unable to participate. Am I missing any others who were in the OV Fine Arts program? Please tell me so I can include you in the next MM.

I SUPPOSE YOU ARE WONDERING DEPARTMENT:

Many of you may or may not have heard Pastor Ryan’s announcement about the inspection on our addition. Here is where we are:

• • • Our contractor and the OC Building Inspector were here last Friday. We passed inspection. That means the rough in of our plumbing, HVAC and electricity have all been okayed.
    • What’s next? That gives the “Go” to insulation and drywall being hung.
    • Here is what we hope: When those two get done, if we can get the minimum of electricity and one furnace, we are in hopes of meeting for Resurrection Sunday in the new addition. It will be for just this one time, but what a day of celebration that would be! As I said Sunday morning, keep up to date with the progress as we get closer. We will do everything possible to stay current with you.
    • If we are unable to meet in the addition and have only one service, we will meet as we do now and have two services. 😄

FROM THE “CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?” TO THE “HERE IS THE INFO” DEPARTMENT:

Becca Anderson is the head of the New Baby Care Team and has gathered the following information. I have been given permission to share it and the moms have given her permission to share it also:

• • • Sonia & Aaron Clausman-Brielle Eve was born March 4! 😊
    • Lexie & Logan Britton- Archer Patrick was born on March 10! 😊
    • Lily & Keaton Zufall- Due 3/12. Lily is the granddaughter of Melvin and Rosie Bault.
      Expecting a boy.
    • Beth & Billy Allen- Due 4/1. Daughter-in-law and son of Julie Allen. Expecting a boy.
    • Zoe & Brayton Wyatt- Due 5/5. Expecting a boy.
    • Sarah & Will Schneider- Due 5/10. Expecting a boy.
    • Gabby and Caleb Corder- Due 5/29. Expecting a girl.
    • Cecilia and Adam Fox- Due 5/31. Scott & Heather Herrington’s daughter and son-in-law.
      Expecting a girl.
    • Cassie & Westin Linville- Due 6/1. Expecting a girl.
    • Katie & Jacob Manyik- Due 6/20. Expecting a girl.
    • Stevie & Justin Chandler- Due 6/27. Jason & April Chandler’s daughter-in-law and son.
      Expecting a boy.
    • Jenn & Chris Zigler- Due 8/1. Expecting a surprise!
    • Tiffany & Bob Kropack- Due 8/29. Expecting a boy.

That oughta load down your prayer list for a while. That nursery in the new addition will sure
get a warm welcome!

• • • One addition (no not a forgotten mama and baby) 😊OVCF is blessed with growing families (as you can see)! We realize our mamas sometimes need a quiet space and privacy with their babies. We have created a Mother’s Room that may be accessed via the library/coffee bar area. When we move, more space will be created in the addition. If you have any questions, please see Becca Anderson or Diana Markland.

WOW! That was some kind of list wasn’t it? Every one of those babies and their mamas (as well as dads and siblings) matter to us. Why? Because they matter to God. That is what families do. They care. Whether an expected or newborn, someone in the final stages of life, or anywhere in between, people matter. It is important for each one of us to make people feel like this is home. I have heard from several who have found a home here at OVCF after searching for a while. That is not just me, or the staff. That is every one of us choosing to be involved in making others comfortable. Thank you for doing that.

Spring Break next week=no Midweek Message!

My sermon this week is The Sorrowful Savior and we will be with Jesus in the Garden. You can find the struggle in Mt. 26, Mk. 14, and Lk. 22. Please consider reading ahead in preparation for the message. I will see you Sunday. Until then…know you are loved.

Pastor Bill