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Happy New Year.  Welcome to 2024!  As we begin the new year, we need to look back at 2023 and express gratitude for all the blessings we received.  Our Sesquicentennial Celebration was a huge success.  It was wonderful to look back to our beginning as a church and see what an impact we have had on this community.  The 99th Annual Turkey Supper was also a success.  We had great help from so many in our community.  It is greatly appreciated.  We recorded 765 carry-out meals served.  The largest order from one car was 34 meals!  We had a beautiful Christmas Eve at our morning worship service.  We are still using 5 excellent ministers on a rotation basis but are actively searching for our next permanent minister.  God will provide.

August 6, 2023 – More updates were added to the interior of the church including the first projector and computer purchased in 2007 to allow for pictures, scripture and songs to be shown.  Updates on the basement began in 2011 with a storage room being built, the ceiling replaced and 2 new exterior doors installed.  After new paint on the walls and floors, the glass blocks were installed and the basement had a very bright fresh look.  This work was all completed by 2016.  That year was when we were connected to the Henderson Water District bringing “City” water to our “Little White Church in the Country.”  During this time, updates to the exterior included the lighted cross on the front of the church in 2012 and all sidewalks were completed by 2013.

July 30 – The first baptistry was constructed in the church in 1895.  It was a large tank in the floor of the stage.  When someone was baptized, the pulpit was moved and the carpet was rolled to one side.  At the time a wire stretched across the front and also at the sides.  Curtains were hung there and this made dressing rooms and some privacy coming out of the baptistry.  For over 100 years this served us well.  In 2003 the front of the church got a new look.  The present baptistry and dressing room were completed.  This much needed improvement has been used by many since and we look forward to using it often in the years to come.

July 23 – We have always actively supported many missions through our church.  The Vacation Bible School always collects for a special cause.  In looking through my records, one mission for many years was Ninos De Mexico.  I saw that in 1987 $108.52 was collected and sent to them.  This past week we had Vacation Bible School and our mission was HSHS Children’s Hospital in Springfield.  Our church was very pleased with the generosity of all our children and their families.  $513.48 was collected during the week.   It is our hope that the children who have to spend time there will benefit from the toys this gift will provide and make their stay in the hospital a little brighter.

July 16, 2023 – After the fellowship Hall was completed, it was several years before much else was done.  The air conditioning in the Hall was installed in 1994.  The church walls were paper in 1997 and this paper is still on the walls today.  We had a minister in 2000 that suggested that a cross should be added to the front of the church.  The beautiful wooden cross was hand made and donated by Gary Thomas, a member of the church.  It was installed on October 28, 2000.  What a beautiful addition to our decor.  We have had, and continue to have, so many talented people in our congregation who work every day to keep our Church beautiful.  A special thanks to all of them.

July 9, 2023 – There has been many activities in our Fellowship Hall.   40 years ago, in 1983, construction was completed on the addition.  This addition was made possible with money from the Roy Rush Estate and other memorials and individual donations.   The hall was first used on June 30th for a dinner following the funeral of Clarence Boston, an elder of the church.  Carpeting was installed in the office and classrooms first, but it was a year before all the cabinets were installed along with linoleum and carpet in the main area.  Cabinets were built and paid for by Roscoe Pitchford.   It was 1995 before the center island and cabinets were built by Don Lee.  A special thank you goes out to all who contributed to this remarkable building.

July 2, 2023 – Fifty years ago, on July 1, 1973 Boston Chapel observed the 100th anniversary of the Church.  Dallas Nickel was the minister at that time.  A special service was held with Marion Henderson from Lincoln Christian College as the speaker.  A total of 83 people shared the day with us.

As we look forward to our 150 year celebration, it is our hope that at least that many will return.  We have a noon meal available to all with our special service beginning at 2 PM.  There will be lots of fun following the program with activities for young and old.  Spread the word about our Special Day.

June 25, 2023 – Don’t you love our “One Call” for getting the news out to everyone at Boston Chapel.  In 1980, the Ladies Aid started a prayer chain.  At the time, this worked great because many of the ladies were still “working at home” moms.  There were about 2 or 3 that started the chain, and they were to call a couple of numbers, and then those were to call a couple of numbers until, everyone was notified of the event or need for prayer.  This continued on for many years and for the most part it worked well.  Now most of the calls that go out are left in our voice mail and then we listen to the message at our convenience.  To some extent this is great but don’t you kind of miss the personal touch.

June 18, 2023 – The Ladies Aid group has always found ways to make money for the many projects they fund throughout the year.  In 1974, the idea of a birthday/anniversary calendar was brought up.  Advertising spots were sold to the local businesses and the first calendar was printed.  A copy of the 1977 calendar is on the bulletin board.   I’m not sure how much money was raised but take a look at all the businesses that advertised on this calendar.  In the past 50 years many of these businesses have closed.  One thing to note is that our little church, shown on the top of each month is still active and about to celebrate 150 years.

June 11, 2023 – We have seen many ups and downs in our 150 years of “Praising the Lord”.  On May 15, 1977 the first full time minister was hired.  Mike and Rita Kirk came to us straight out of college.  Our congregation was growing at the time and both Mike and Rita were part of that growth.  During their stay here, the church rented a home for them and they had their first experience as “country folks”.  A Ladies Prayer Meeting was started.  They met every Tuesday afternoon.  They started a youth group of kids in the 6th grade and younger.   A large amount of money was left to the church which inspired the members to start planning for the Fellowship Hall addition.  Records show an attendance of 87 for the 1979 Easter Sunrise Service.

Looking back on all the accomplishment made over the years can encourage us of good things to come.

June 4, 2023 – Summer always makes us think of all the things that can be done to beautify our surroundings.  In July of 1976, one of the most notable improvements to “God’s House” was wall to wall carpeting and new pews.  The pews were a welcome addition because the old seating was wooden theater type chairs that were very noisy and dangerous for small children.  The new pews were originally olive green.  The carpet was also green as that was one of the popular colors in the 70’s.  The pews were reupholstered with the present red in 2009.  The carpet was replaced about 2000.

The last summer improvement, which I think everyone will agree was the most welcomed, was that air conditioning was installed in May of 1979.  With all these comforts, why would anyone need more.

May 28, 2023 – This Memorial Day we recognize all military personnel who have served our country, remembering that “All gave some, and Some gave all” for our freedom.

This also gives us an opportunity to remember all loved ones who have left this earth for their heavenly home.  Many past members of Boston Chapel have been a huge part in the beauty and maintenance of this building.  Because of memorial monies in honor of these people many improvements have been made.  Items as small as new hymnals and Bibles in the holders in front of you, to Communion Sets and collection plates, Flag sets, new carpeting, pews for seating, the fellowship hall addition, new furnaces and air conditioners have all been possible either fully or in part to memorials.  As we celebrate 150 years of worship at Boston Chapel, may we always remember those who came before us and remember all that they gave to us.

May 21, 2023 – As summer draws close, we are planning for Vacation Bible School and Camp.  The first Bible School was held in June of 1966.  The Ladies Aid had purchased little metal folding chairs for the kids so they were all ready to greet the children of the neighborhood.  VBS was held each morning for 5 days.  At the time, most mothers did not have jobs outside of the home so many were available to help.  We tried holding VBS for 8 days instead of the usual 5 in June of 78 and it must have been a success because about 74 attended that year.

MacGomery Christian Service Camp was established in 1973 and Boston Chapel became an official member of that organization.  Over the years, many of the youth from Boston Chapel have attended that camp.  The first record of us cooking at the camp was in 1978 when we served dinner and supper on July 7th and supper on July 26th.  We still support the camp and I am sure we will have some attending again this year.  There is a delicious menu planned for this year when we serve on June 21 and 28.

May 14, 2023 – Mother’s Day has always been special here at Boston Chapel.  The Ladies Aid has always come up with ways to show all the mothers just how special they are.  For the last several years, a plant was given to each mother.  Over the years many Mother-Daughter banquets have been held.   In 1978, the banquet was held by candle light and lantern light.  Because of a severe thunderstorm the power was knocked out and the heavy rain flooded the basement so everything was moved to a garage at the Kessinger home just down the road.  Nothing stops a good party.  One year, I believe it was the late 1990’s,  a picture was taken at the banquet of each mother and daughter.  That picture is very special to me.  Time goes too fast.  Everyone, please take time to create a special moment with your Mom.

May 7, 2023 – Hardwood floors are now the most popular choice for flooring and Boston Chapel has that option below the current carpeting.  In 1967 everyone was excited to get carpeting down the aisles of the church.  This was such an improvement.  Until then, there was a black vinyl runner going down each aisle.  Carpeting was also added to the front hall.  The memorial fund from George and Bessie Arnold (Lorinda Jenning’s grandparents) paid for this improvement with a little help from the Ladies Aid Fund.  The sixties were all about conserving energy and this was when it was decided to lower the ceiling again.  In August of 1968, the current block ceiling tiles were installed.  Everyone thought they were wonderful, but times change and many wish we could go back to the high domed ceiling and hanging light fixtures.  A peek in the attic reveals what the lights and ceiling used to look like.

April 30, 2023 – We all enjoy turning on the faucet and getting hot and cold water.  Until August, 1966, any warm water in the church had to be heated on the stove.  There was a small hand pump on the northwest corner of the basement which we used to fill the sink to do dishes.  At that time there was a large supply of plates, glasses, cups and silverware.  No disposable items were used.  This hand pump was the only water supply to the church.  With much prayer and anticipation, a water system was installed in the basement.  A restroom was also built in the southwest corner.  Until this important upgrade, the outhouse, several yards away from the building, had to be used.

As we look back on the “good old days”, let’s be extra thankful for what we have today.

April 23, 2023 – Over the past years, we have had many Christmas programs put on by the youth of our church.  In 1956, after not having a program for about 15 years, excitement returned with a program put on by both the Sunday School and Church groups.  I don’t remember too much about them, but I can remember my dad, Clarence Boston being in the play.  At that time, the younger kids were given a poem or recitation to learn and one by one they would go up and recite it to the crowd.  Everything was memorized.  After the program, Santa Claus would make a noisy entrance and everyone got a paper bag filled with candy and an orange.

April 16, 2023 – The congregation finally decided that maybe they were getting older and needed help to get into the building.  In 1956, under the direction of Oscar Boston, a handrail was installed on the front steps.  These were simple galvanized pipe threaded together and fastened to the concrete.  If you look at our present steps you can see the holes where they were fastened.  This expense was paid for by the Ladies Aid.  These women worked hard to earn money.   In the history listed in the Girard Gazette, it stated that on August 7, 1941 the annual Boston Chapel fish and chicken fry was held on the church lawn with a total of 773 being served.  There is no record of how much money was raised at that event.

April 9, 2023 – The first Easter Sunrise Service and breakfast was held on April 1, 1956.  LeRoy McGeath was the minister at that time and Bob Knox from Riverton was the guest speaker for the service.  Since then, we have celebrated Christ’s resurrection each year by gathering at sunrise to worship our Lord and Savior.  The breakfast afterwards is always delicious.

When the stained glass was put in above the front doors in 2018, it was a surprise that first Easter morning to see BCCC and 1873 cast on the wall by the rising sun.   If the sun is out today, please look for this and smile as we celebrate 150 years at Boston Chapel.

April 2, 2023 – The 1940’s seemed to be a pretty quiet time for Boston Chapel.  World War 2 was going on at this time.  There is not much written in the record book.   During these 10 years there are 8 ministers listed.  In 1943, Bro Chase of Palmyra preached for a couple of weeks and was paid $6.00 a week for his services.   There were many Sundays when there was not a minister.  Rev Schimer of Modesto began coming to Boston Chapel the first and third Sunday of each month.  He was paid $15.00 per trip.  He stayed until 1953, at which time we started using students from Lincoln Bible Institute.  These were hired for a term of 6 months and usually came on the first and third Sunday.

The church was papered the later part of March in 1951.  The Ladies Aid paid for the paper and the members did the work.  On August 22, 1951 an Ice Cream Supper was held.  The amount cleared from that event was $73.30.  A financial report by the Treasurer on September 7, 1951 showed a balance of $129.33.

March 26, 2023 – 1938 was an exciting year for the church.  Remodeling was completed.  Little Boston Chapel made the news in an article in the Illinois State Journal.  In that article, dated November 28, 1937, money for the remodeling was made in part by a donation of a load of corn by Ernest Defevers to be harvested by the Ladies Aid Group.  Just imagine the horse drawn wagon going through the field with the ladies following and picking corn off stalks.  This all helped pay for the electricity that was installed that year.  The cost of the fixtures was $35.25.  In November 1975, Rural Electric ran an article about this project in the Rural Highlights.    They stated “Rural Electric Convenience Cooperative is proud to serve this thriving rural congregation”.  We still are served by them and have received many prizes given away at their annual meetings.  Linda Peper  was our representative at the meetings for many years and almost always came home with a prize.

March 19, 2023 – Eighty-six years ago, in 1937 new windows with ropes were installed in the church.  These are the windows that we now have.  I can imagine that all the members thought they were beautiful with the textured glass.   They cost $128.52.  There were eight installed.  When the fellowship hall was built, the one in the back right side was taken out.  That year the ceiling was lowered for the first time at a cost of $65.40.  I remember this domed ceiling with beautiful fixtures hanging down.   In the 1960’s everyone started lowering ceilings to save on the cost of heating.  Block ceiling were all the thing so in 1968 the suspended ceiling was installed.  I couldn’t find the cost of that project.

The 13th Thanksgiving chicken dinner was also held that year.  The dinner was served in the church basement.  The profit from the dinner was $60.00.

March 12, 2023 – During the Illinois cold winters, the church was heated with two coal stoves.  One was on the north side of the church, and the other on the south side.  In 1926, a coal furnace was installed.  I can imagine everyone was excited about not having to constantly add coal to the stoves.  I remember a huge round furnace in the basement.  In 1956 the furnace was converted to oil at a cost of $425.00.  I remember the coal storage  area built on the north side of the church.  The records show that additions were dedicated on August 28, 1938, and I assume this storage area was part of that dedication.  It was just a low building and the door to that area was in the basement and if you look downstairs you can see the concrete blocks that closed the entrance off.    In 1968 the big old furnace was removed and replaced with a new gas furnace with money left to the church by Herb Harrison.

March 5, 2023 – On September 26, 1920 during a basket dinner at the church it was decided that the exterior needed a coat of paint.  Uncle Jim Sutherland said he would do the work if the church would furnish the paint and board him.  He must have lived further away because Lee and Fred Boston agreed to board him.  I’m not sure where Fred lived, but Lee lived just 1/2 mile east of the church.  CC Boston started to raise the money.  In a short time the money was raised as everyone gave liberally.  $93.50 was turned over to Lee Boston, the Treasurer at the time, to get the paint.  On October 11, 1920 the work started and was completed on October 17, 1920.  The cost for the paint was $63.35, leaving $30.15 to be placed in the church treasury.  That’s a lot of brushstrokes for one man in 7 days.   (taken from Church Record, Lee Boston, Clerk)

February 26, 2023 – As we look around our beautiful comfortable church, we must remember the days of the early 1900’s when life was much different than today. Imagine entering a cold rough structure to worship.  The interior of the building received an uplifting appearance when the walls were papered for the first time.  In 1910, $58.00 was spent for this project.  Henry Rathgeber did the work.  Seems like that was quite a large amount of money for them to come up with.  It took them another 4 years to save for the first upright piano.  It was purchased in 1914.  I don’t know the amount spent but wonder if it was the same piano I remember my sister Donna and Linda Peper (then Arnold) playing for services.

February 19, 2023 –

Boston Chapel was very excited to lay their first  concrete walks on June 17, 1907.  The work was done by E. A. Gibson with the total cost being $57.55.

The hitch-racks for the horses were put up in 1909.      In December of 1909 the Treasurer’s report was given showing the money received for the year was $281.40 and expenses paid was $278.65, leaving a balance of $2.75.  What faith it took to keep our little church going and prospering.

February 12, 2023 – The Ladies of Boston Chapel have always played an important role in the Church. The First Ladies Aid was organized in 1902 and disbanded in 1910.  It reorganized in 1923 and is still active today.  By special donation from the Ladies Aid,  in 1924 the library table and chairs were purchased for communion.  That year, they also asked permission to put in a basement.  The minister’s wife, Mrs. Teany, led old Kate, Herb Boston’s horse, under the church building for the first timer.  The basement was dedicated November 30, 1924.  The Ladies Aid collected dues from their members at 5 cents a year.  The aid also included several ladies in the area who were not members of the church nor attended the services.  They met once a month in the afternoons and worked on projects, mostly quilts.  They did quilting for others and charged $1.00 per small spool of thread used.  The first Thanksgiving “chicken” Dinner was in 1925 in the new church basement.

February 5, 2023 – As we begin our Sesquicentennial Year, please watch for little tidbits of information from the past.

Information about the first days of Boston Chapel were destroyed in a fire at the home of Lee Boston, an Elder elected in 1907, but a small notebook and a copy of the deed for the land was in another home so we have those.  The land for  Boston Chapel was purchased September 4, 1873 from John G. and Mary A. Smith for $50.00

January 2023 – Plans are currently underway for our Sesquicentennial Celebration for this year.  The kick-off will be February 12th, which is the Second Lords Day of February which has special significance due to the Second Lord’s Day in February 1873, was the date that 81 brothers and sisters in Christ gathered to organize Boston Chapel Christian Church.  We will begin our Morning worship with a short recognition of past members who have shown us their great love for the Lord and passing to generations after them a beautiful building where we can gather to worship.  A wonderful soup and sandwich meal will follow the service.  We hope that many will enjoy this.

Our main celebration will be Sunday, August 27, 2023 beginning with a wonderful lunch at noon.  Special music will be provided by the New Jerusalem Singers during the worship service beginning at 1PM.  Games and ice cream will be available from 2-4PM for all to enjoy.

12/5/2020  As the year is about to come to an end, we have experienced several first for our congregation.  We are now closed for the 3rd time this year due to the increase in numbers for the Covid 19 virus.  Boston Chapel has been closed due to weather, but in looking back through our history, this appears to be the first time that we have closed for extended times.  March 22 began our first closure which ran for 10 weeks.  During that time, Larry Brandon resigned and our search began for a new minister.  After having several guests ministers, we again had to make the difficult decision to close for two weeks, July 26 and August 2.  Beginning September 6, Dan Roseberry became our interim minister and we have welcomed both he and his wife Kathleen to our church family.  We are disappointed that beginning November 22 and for the remainder of the year we will not have in-person services at the church.  Our goal is to be open again on January 17.  In the meantime, Pastor Dan has done a great job delivering his weekly message on Facebook Live.  This also is a first for our Church.  Thank you Pastor Dan for making this possible.  Another first for Boston Chapel was the Carry-out Curbside Turkey Supper.  We served 606 meals in just over 2 hours and had a long line of cars that we had to turn away because we ran out of food.  We cooked the same amount of food as in the past, and were overwhelmed by the support and generosity of the community.  As we celebrate the Birth of Christ Jesus, please remember to give thanks to God for his abundant Love and all the blessings which we have.  Peace and Joy to All!

08/19/2020  Welcome to our newest member of the Boston Chapel Family!!  Kimmy Giganti was baptized by Dan Roseberry on Sunday, August 16.  We have had small but enthusiastic attendance during this pandemic.  Hope to see everyone back soon.  All of our guest ministers have been great and we look forward to each of their visits.  The new Directory and Program book will be out next month.  Be sure to let Janet know if any changes need to be made.  The next Board Meeting and Ladies Aid meeting is scheduled for August 30th.  Everyone please stay safe and healthy!!

06/12/2020  This is Janet.  I will be trying to update you on news from BC3 as Larry has retired.  We are in the process of searching for applicants to fill the ministry position.  We have had Worship for the past 2 Sundays are were very happy to have Dan Roseberry and Bill Burke as Guest Ministers.

I hope everyone will feel safe returning in person to our congregation as we have been social distancing and face masks have been recommended but are not required.

Larry Boston has had his knee surgery and is progressing well.   I am sure he appreciates all the prayers offered for his speedy recovery.

Hope to see you at BC3 this week.

04/18/2020                                    It looks like we and most churches in Illinois will not have face-to-face worship for a few more weeks.   I hope you are missing BC3 fellowship, prayer together, communion and music as much as Peggy and I have been.  Each                                                                 Sunday we have been spending about four hours each Sunday listening and watching Gaither Vocal Band music.  Singing along gives my spirit a big boost.  Every day all of you who make up the BC3 family come to mind.  I’m                                                                 thanking God for each of you, and expect that to be the case as long as my memory remains healthy.

                                                           Wonderful news  that you may have already heard.   William Richard Marshall was born in the last two weeks to Daniel (Enrietta) and Kyle Marshall.  Congratulation, to the Marshall family.  Grandma, Mary Ann Smith, is                                                                        always ready to celebrate another grandchild…. as she should be!

                                                           The first draft of Larry Boston’s autobiography is completed.  Larry will review it this week, and then it will be time for the second draft.  If you get a chance to read it when he has it done with pictures included, you predict that                                                             you will enjoy every minute of it.

04/12/2020                                    Hope all who are Mother’s Day enjoyed contact with your family even if most of it was not within six feet.  Our house was made happy by flowers, a rainbow at 7:50 p.m.  tonight, and communication with our immediate families

                                                          There has been no change in the condition of Mary Ellen Wernsing.  She is not alert and is being ventilated in St. John’s Hospital.  I’m sure you had a call asking for your prayers.  Linda Boston advised me tonight that Mary                                                                    Ellen is to have an electrocardiogram tomorrow to determine if she has any brain activity.  Continue to pray that God will be with her, and that her family will receive strength and guidance by God’s Spirit during this time.

                                                          I know that families like Boston Chapel, are suffering greatly with being blocked from meeting with more than ten people, at least through May.  Hopefully, we can all be together so Peggy and I can say our good bys after almost                                                            eight years of wonderful life in Christ with you.  In the mean time, I join you in praying that a new minister can be found in time for regular worship to begin when the virus leaves our part of Illinois.

                                                          Do not hestitate to call me about illness, of yourself or others.  If you think I might not know about  other prayer needs, give me a call.  The tragic accident this week near Girard was tended by first responder, Adam Boston.  I’m                                                            sure he appreciates your prayers for him, as do those loved ones and friends affected by the fatal collision on Rt. 4.

                                                         As we say, “God be with you till we meet again.”

04/29/2020                                  Boston Chapel News:

                                                         The Ladies of the church have announced that there will be no Lemon-Shake-Ups at Irish Days, if the festival happens in June.  Sandy Webb notified us by one-call phone of why this was necessary.

                                                          Larry Boston expects that the final draft of his autobiogrraphy will be available to his extended family in late summer.  He may have coopies of his book available to you.  I have been editing the book as it is developing,   You will                                                            enjoy reading the farm, family and sports events that have been a part of Larry’s life.

                                                          Peggy and I remain hopeful that we can have worship this month at BC3.  We are praying for all of you, and wishing we could give everyone a hug.  May God give all of us strenth to survive in this time of isolation.

04/21/2020                                  I hope your best friend is Jesus our Lord and Saviour, and you are keeping his company these days.  Since he is our Saviour we have a lot to be thankful for.  One item to think about is that he is with us.  With Covid-19 and the                                                               isolation we have, and social distancing, it is relaxing to know that we are being guided, strengthened and loved by the One who is closer to us than any brother or sister.  This reality makes for good mental health in a time like                                                               this.  Please keep praying for your community, your friends, as well as your family.  There are always people you know who can help you through the challenges at this time.  Do not hestitate to call them.

                                                         From what i am hearing, I expect to see you in mid-May at BC3 worship.  Get a mask (or make one), because I think they will be required for all who are in public gatherings.  We may not be able to hug, or be closer than six feet                                                            for worship, but that is better than what we have had for these past Sundays.

                                                        Peggy and I are well and missing you.  You are in our prayers.

04/15/2020                                 The news:  Larry and Peggy Brandon have resigned as minister and teacher at BC3.  The effective date is six Sundays from now, the fourth Sunday in May.  We made the decision in February and announced it to the church                                                                     leadership last week.  I will miss writing the news in Larry’s Lines, fellowshiping with you , teaching Sunday school and preaching.  However, I celebrated the 55 anniversary of ordination April 5th. I will be 78 in June.  Sadly, I                                                               believe God is directing us in this decision to end my preachig career.  My health and energy and competency to do public speaking has diminished greatly since last fall.

                                                    Today, Mark Jennings is posting the need for a minister at Lincoln Christian University.  The hope is that a young minister, staff member of professor will want to preach long-term as a part-time minister.  If you have someone in                                                          mind, call Mark Jennings or Larry Boston with any contact iunformation you may have.   Six weeks is a very short time to secure a new part-time minister.

                                                    I will  send out a “one call to all 36 persons and families who are connected to Boston Chapel Christian Church.  I regret that I could not give this to  you face-to-face.    To miss fellowship with each other  (through singing,                                                                         communion and offerings) is a challenge to our faith and  spirit.  Since the Lord is our Shepherd and we shall not want, I am sure our needs will be met during this time of financial, social, and spiritual                                                                                                             challenges.  I’m praying for all of you.  I hope you are praying for all of us at BC3.  Remember, in our isolation we remain free in Christ as He promised.

                                                    I am praying that we can worhsip together again before the end of May.  For that to happen the covid-19 virus will need to be greatly diminished.  Keep all those suffering, and all those grieving deaths, in your prayers.  May God                                                              keep you not just for now, but forever in His lovihg hand.   Peggy and I have missed worshipping wiith you.

                                                     Mike Webb had surgery to address an infection in his foot.  The Dr. has told Mike and Sandy that he should be mobile and healthy very soon.  Thank you for your prayers of support for Mike over his last six-months of treatment,                                                            surgery and nealing of his leg, and foot.

04/01/2020                           I hope we don’t have to miss church the entire month of April.  However, it seems that is what we are being directed to do.  In the meantime, we will suffer from lack of communion together.  So far Peggy and I are healthy and self                                                         isolated.  Peggy says it feels like the movie ‘Groundhog.’   Sunday we sang ourway through a songbook.  Peggy played our little organ, and I sang away.  I hope you take time to sing some (or whistle).  Reading the scripture that                                                               records the death burial and resurrection of Jesus, as he brought us salvation and life in place of sin and destruction, is what I plan to do the next two Sundays.  I have enjoyed mowing the yard three times the past ten days.  (My                                                          lawn  service must have over-fertilized it.  The rain didn’t help either).  Fortunately, we live close to three grocery stores who deliver a day or a week after we place an order.  So we are not with other people who might have the virus.

                                                 This week I encourage any of you who need prayer or spiritual support to call Peggy and I.  Our number is 217-726-0912.   I do not have any news this week from BC3, except lets all prayer for each other, and for those in the world                                                         who have the virus, and those who are dying from it.

03/24/2020                         No church at BC3 yesterday per the direction of Gov. Pritsker.  Mark Jennings will be contacting you by phone this Saturday if you attend BC3.  He will inform you as to whether the Sunday service will be held.  I continue to pray that                                                  none of us will get the virus.   Prayers this week are appropriate for all of our senior members (including the preacher).

                                                I heard that Larry Boston’s knee surgery has been postponed due to precations being taken by the hospitial for non-emergency surgeries.  As of today, I am aware that health care workers in many Illinois hospitals have no masks,                                                         gowns, or latex gloves.  My daughter is a hospital pharmist in Sparta, Illinois hospital. Her only protection is to keep washing her hands.  Join me in praying that these supplies get to all our hospitals very soon.

                                                Jigsaw puzzles, putting pictures in albums, eating, sleeping, and watching DVD movies, and wiping down and disinfecting the house are helping me with being housebound.   I missed being in worship yesterday with you who worship                                                  at BC3.  I did find two worship services on TV, but they did not come close to refreshing my spirit as does our special time together each Sunday morning.

                                                I pray that all of you who are suffering will receive healing from God.  I also pray that the virus will not cause major health problems to all of you who read ‘Larry’s Lines.’  God bless you and yours!

03/16/2020                        Larry Boston is expected to be home from Florida today.  BC3 and others have missed him during his extended time down south.  Welcome home Larry!   Cody Boston, Larry’s grandson who lives in South Carolina was at worship at                                                     BC3 yesterday with his father, Brian and Kimmy Giganti yesterday.

                                               Larry Schroeder’s aunt, Norma Jean Killiam of Virden, IL died this past week.  We pray for comfort and strength for all those who mourn her death.  Cindy Schoeder, suffers from lack of oxygen, but was able to play the piano for                                                           worship yesterday.

                                                Bob Simmons, daughter Connie has been a guest in worship at BC3 the past two Sundays.  We are always glad to see her, and so is Bob.  She flies home through Orlando tomorrow.

                                                Kelsey Jennings takes ‘Boards’ (a comprehensive exams) which determine if she becomes a Doctor of Optometry and can continue required clinical education for the degree.  Mark and Lorinda Jennings from Litchfield are her                                                                parents.

                                                As people arrived at BC3 worship yesterday, they each received a wet wipe to use on their hands.  We did not shake hands, or hug, or get too close to each other, but still had a very meaningful worship service.

                                                Have you noticed that the preacher (me) sometimes calls people by their wrong names?  Yes, I am the same age as Joe Biden.  You are so kind to forgive me when I don’t catch myself making a mistake of speach from time to time.   I                                                     remembered after worship that I had called Brian Boston, Ryan, when referring to him publicly yesterday.  Sorry Brian.

                                                 Mike Webb is receiving drugs intrevenously for the next six to eight weeks to clear up infection he developed after knee repair.  Join me in praying for a return to good health soon for Mike.

                                                 VBS planning took a bigh step yesterday when Kara Stieren held a meeting with those who will be making it happen July 13-17.  It’s exciting to imagine how many items the children will provide for the Girard Food Pantry during that                                                   week of fun, games, singing, giving, and learning.

03/09/2019                        Special guests for worship this Sunday were the Fatherlee family from Girard.  We were glad that their son Ethan was home from UIS-E and all five of them could join us..  Keith is the band and choral teacher at North Mac High                                                             School.

                                               Sanddy Webb, Danielle Marshall, Dawn Webb and Jessica Sidwell who are part of BC3 are featured in the Waggoner Theatre starting this past week-end. and for the next two week-emds.

                                               Mike Webb had surgery today (Monday) March 9th for an infection that devoloped in his knee and cause fever.  Pray for Mike and the family for strength to handle this unexpected set-back to his full revovery from surgeries for ijuries                                                from a fall at work last fall.

                                              Linda Boston’s father, Glen Brown is recovering from surgery for a kidney annurism that burst last week.  He is home and recovering well.

                                              Julie Jone’s father who farms near Benton, Illinois is having knee surgery early this week.  All of us at BC3 wish him a good recovery.

                                              Cindy Schroeder had four days of IV’s last week, steroids and is receiving 5 liters of oxygen to help her breathe.  She requestsyour prayers that her health will improve.

03/02/2016                      Mary Ann Smith daughter, Danielle, Marshall and her husband Ryan, are expecting a new baby this year.  We wish Danielle good health and pray that she will have a healthy baby.

                                             40 persons were part of our fellowship at BC3 yesterday.  It was special to greeet seven visitors to our worship.

                                             Camp Mac, a Christian summver camp near Chesterfield in MacCoupin county is busy organizing deans, churches to serve meals, registering campers, and reviewing their consitution for improverments.   All Christia churches from                                                      Alton   to Virden have supportendcnd sent cmapers this camp for many decades.  If you have children ages 8 through high school getting them reistered for this summer camp.  BC3 will assist campers from our community upon                                                            trwirdy.  Support will be up to 100% can be requested.

                                              Bob Simmons is celebrating his 91st birthdaya this week with his daughter from Florida, and his son, Bobby, from Goreville, IL.  Bob gave the offertory prayer for our worship yesterday, and expressed his gratitude to God for the long                                                  life   he has had.

                                              Mike Webb’s injuries from a fall at work have healed except for his ankle which is ‘locked.’  He will be seeing a specialist to get over this last hurdle of healing.

                                              Returning from New York this week were Mary Ann Smith and her sister, Kay Wittington.  They missed the big snow storm that occurred in mid-week up there.  Also, Mark and Lorinda Jennings spent last week-end in Chicago and                                                       enjoyed exellent weather while spending time with daughter, Kelsey.

02/24/2020                     BC3 members who provide comedy theatre in Wagnoner each March, and a wonderful steak dinner, are nearing the end of rehearsal, and gathering of supplies.  The dinner is special due to the giant prime rib steak served and                                                                 prepared as you  request.   I prefere mine well-done.  I don’t know anything about the play we will see, but you can be sure it will be fun and full of energy from the cast.  The Wagoner Community Theater features local people who do                                                  everything from bulding and painting sets, to greeting and serving the wonderful meal each night of the play.  There are no tickets at the door as the event has been sold out  every year fo all nine performances over three week-ends.                                                     The  tickets are distributed by members of the theater prior to the shows.  Each year there are a few tickets available to ‘first-time’ attending persons.  Contact families of Wagoner or Farmersville to get directed to persons with tickets for                                              next year.

                                              Demmy Kemp was a visitor at BC3 worship yesterday.  We loved having her.  I think I was the only person who did not know who she was.  She is a good friend of Sam Stieren.

02/16/2020                      Sunday I learned of those people who have died in the past week or two.  Many members of BC3 are attending funerals this week of loved ones and friends.  Most of those who died have lived long lives.  Several were in their 90’s.   We                                                        are thankful for their long and meaningful lives.  McCoupin County, their neighbors, relatives, and loved ones have been greatly blessed by these special  people.  Your prayers for comfort are important for these famiilies.  Some of us are                                                   blessed to be able to worship together when there is grief amongst us.

                                             April 12th is Easter.  BC3 invites everyone to our early morning service and all you can eat breakfast.  If you are a member of BC3, you are requested to invite your friends and family.

02/12/2020                     Peggy and I arrived home from south Florida Monday afernoon.  We missed the snow and ice here, but enjoyed the 83 degrees at Punta Gorda airport when we started home.  I’m sitting here looking out the window at steady snow on                                                        this Wednesday afternoon.  It is beautiful and if I were a kid I’d be getting my sled out and looking for a hill.

                                           Heaven.’ and I think you will enjoy it.  We did get news in Florida that Wilma Embry had successful heart valve surgery repair last week.  We praise the Lord for answered prayer.  Wilma is the sister of Mary Ann Smith and Kay                                                                    Whitington.  Wilma now lives in Jacksonville.

01/28/2020                    BC3 has a long-time resident, Gene Crouch, who lived and worked much of his adult life in Kanonsas City.  He plans to watch the Superbowl and support his team, the Kansas City Chiefs this week-end.  I won’t be able to join him due to                                                   traveling I am doing this week-end.  Hope your team  wins!

                                           BC3 was full of joy Sunday morning as we welcomed back Mike and Janet Steiren from their trip to Florida, Baby Bristol Waldeck, her sister, Tinley, and her  parents Adam and Alicia.  Kay Whittington whose knee is healing after                                                          surgery and Bob Simmons missed worship due to weather last week.  We were happy to see them yesterday.

                                           News:  Kallie Jones fell into a water meter hole while out in the snow and seriously injured her leg.  She was in worship yesterday, but unable to straighten her leg or put her foot in the correct position.  Join us in praying that she will                                                   heal quickly.  She is participating in her school play that comes up very soon at Carlinville High School.

                                                         Cindy Schroeder was out the hospital where she had been in isolation last week, and at BC3 worship yesterday.  Her lung disease is advanced, but she is of good spirit, still counting her blessings.  This summer she will  not be                                                                  able to be one of our major cooks at Camp Mac.  Those who plan to do two meals this summer at Camp Mac will be hard pressed to replace Cindy.

                                                         Tinley Waldeck at the urging of her grandfather, Greg Waldeck, annouced to Peggy Brandon Sunday that her grandmother, Lauri Waldeck had crashed their car.  Turns out she hit the garage door.  Some minor damage was done                                                           but I don’t know if it was to the car or the garage door or both.

                                                          Can you believe it????? —-  Valentines Day is just around the corner.  This Sunday is the first Sunday in February.  We are just eight weeks from farmers getting into the fields, if the weather cooperates.  BC3 celebrates                                                                              Valentines with a special dinner for all of you who can worship with us on February 9th.  The meal will happen immediately after worship at about 11:50 a.m.  Already all the tables in the Fellowship Hall have been decorated                                                                          with white covers and centerpieces of red roses.   Terry Davis will be our special guest minister a week from this Sunday.  I’m sure he will enjoy the fellowship at this special lunch that is an annual event.   Plan to join us too!

01/22/2020                   Jeremy Jones has a badly damaged shoulder socket due to an accident with a highway truck from which he was unloading asphalt.  Doctors are meeting with him this week to determine what surgery can be done to repair the socket .                                                    Did you know that Tucker Jones is now working part-time at the Cracker Barral restaurant in Springfield.?  He is becoming an excellent waiter.  Look for him when you eat or shop at the restaurant.

                                           Did you know that Camp Mac is preparing already for meals, operations, facalty, staff, and maintenance needed before camp starts in June?  Paxton Sidwell is already excited about being a camper again this summer.  BC3 is a major                                                    supporting church of this Christian summer camp that is located in SW MacCoupin County just west of Beaver Creek State Park south of Carl0nville.   BC3  ladies will prepare and serve three delicious meals at Camp Mac two days this                                                       summer.

                                           BC3 will have a special guest a week from this Sunday.  During worship, he will present the orphan mission work being done in Sierra Leone.  He is the forwarding agent for the mission and visits churches frequently with news of the                                                   mission.  You will  be inspired by the pictures he will show of the mission and the joy that is happening for the children whose parents have diied of AIDS.    He and his family live in Athens, Illinois.

                                           Joyce Jennings, mother of Mark Jennings died last week on Tuesday in Glenco, Alabama a SE suburrb of Gadsdon.  We invite you to join us in prayers for comfort for the family.  Mark and his wife, Lorinda (Peper) were in Gadsdond on                                             Saturday to compete necessary businsss related to his mother’s death.

01/13/2020                    Newborn, Bristol Waldeck joined us for worship at BC3 yesterday.  Bristol’s sister, Tinley, her mom, Alicia, and dad Adam worshiped with grandparents, Greg and Lauri Waldeck.  Because of snow and ice,  some persons missed worship                                              yesterday who would otherwise have been with us in worship.  On Thursday of this week Mike Webb had a fourth surgery on the knee that was badly damaged from a fall at work over three months ago.  He is in good spirits now that he                                               can  put weight on his leg and get walk around the house.  We thank God for hearing our prayers for Mike’s recovery.

                                                   Marvin and Mary Lou Crouch are doing well at South Villa in Chatham.  They enjoy visits — hint,hint.

                                         I counted 37 BC3 people who missed Mary Ann Smith’s meat loaf, delicious smoked ham, spice cake, beans and carrotts, and a variety of pizza’s at pot-luck yesterday.  If you like good food and fellowship join us on the second Sunday of                                              each month after worship.  It is always wonderful!!