Is EBC more like a bag of marbles or a bag of grapes? When it comes to how we relate to one another, the church can be viewed in one of two ways.
It can be like a bag of marbles. You throw a bunch of marbles into a bag, and they will impact each other. They will ricochet off each other. But when you take them out of the bag, each remains intact, distinct, and individual. When we as a church function like marbles, we get together on Sunday morning, worship together, and hear the Word of God together. Then following the benediction, we go our separate ways, and everyone is still the same as when they arrived.
The church can be like a bag of grapes. Put grapes into a bag, apply a little pressure, and the grapes break open and all their flavors get mixed together. The grapes “influence” the others and become one. They will never be the same individual grapes as when they began.
The marble mentality grows from individualism. Individualism is totally foreign to the New Testament church. It is totally foreign to the way God created us. We were made for relationships. We were made for family.
God never intended for us to live the Christian life on our own. It is God’s design for us to grow in the context of Christian community. Growth comes as we press up against each other and the juices of our lives as we do life together.
As your pastor, my heart for you is that you develop deep friendships. You have heard me say before that not only should we be a friendly church, but a church that makes friends. Only to a certain point, can we program this. We can provide opportunities for you to make connections, but it is on you to follow up on those initial points of contact to make friendships that flourish.
Here are some ways you can deepen friendships here:
Linger or come early for the coffee time between services (10:15-10:45).
Attend a community group.
Serve in ministry.
Invite someone to join you for a meal, or dessert, or coffee, at a restaurant or in your home.
Include others in something you are doing already (walking, hiking, exercising, some hobby or interest, etc.).
Be intentional in developing friendships. And remember, these will be forever friends.
Can’t wait to see you this Sunday. Don’t forget about the pies and presentation by Sam Huggard (EFCA New England District Superintendent) this Sunday night @ 6:00 downstairs in the fellowship hall.
Blessings to you, Pastor Brian
Looking Forward
Sermon Direction
Upside-Down Wisdom and Power
1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Link to This Sunday Worship Service
Aspire Baby Bottles
Some baby bottles are still available on the fellowship counter so if you were not here last Sunday you can still pick one up.
Pie Social for the EFCA Meeting
We are looking for a handful of volunteers to bring a pie. If you would like to donate a pie, please email the office at office@ebclaconia.com.
The Five Benefits of Joining the EFCA With Sam Huggard
Sam Huggard, District Superintendent of the Evangelical Free Church of America, will be joining us for a special informational night on Sunday, May 15, 2022 at 6pm in the Fellowship Hall. Sam will present and unpack the five benefits of joining the EFCA. Pie will be served. For a preview of the five benefits, please check out this resource: https://
Couple’s Breakfast
Mark your calendar for a couple’s breakfast on Saturday, May 21st.
Kingdom Marriage Series
Do you desire to tap into the power of God as you seek God’s perspective and purpose for your marriage? Kingdom Marriage is a 6 week video series you won’t want to miss. It begins on May 22nd at 9:00 AM in the fellowship hall.
Baby/Child Dedication
There will be a baby/child dedication on May 22nd. If you are interested in hearing more on this, attend the informational meeting on May 15 at 10:15 (between services) in the fellowship hall.
Local Outreach Opportunity
The local outreach team is sponsoring a spring cleanup day this June. This is a way to serve your unbelieving neighbor, friend, family member. Two ways you can help: 1. Pass on the name of someone you have contacted who could use some practical help. 2. Show the love of Christ through service by participating in the spring cleanup day in June (date to be determined). Stop by the ministry counter for more information or to sign up.
On Goal soccer Camp is Coming Soon!
This coming Sunday, May 15th is On Goal Sign Up Sunday! As the host church of On Goal, we are looking for volunteers to support camp needs.
Don’t forget to register your k-9th grade children for On Goal Soccer Camp! Camp Dates: June 28th – July 2nd at Leavitt Park, Laconia. Register your child today to secure their spot. Register at: https://www.ongoal.org/