We had about 45 people stay for our VBS Planning Meeting last Sunday evening. We are still just in the early and beginning stages of planning and organizing our VBS. Future meetings to plan some more and work sessions will be announced. If you were not able to attend the meeting, but would still like to be involved, there is a sign-up sheet on the table in the foyer for you to sign up under the areas of work in VBS that you would be willing to be involved. Please continue to consider how you can become personally involved in helping in this tremendous teaching program and evangelistic outreach. For this to be a successful VBS it will require much work from so many as we teach these children and lay a proper foundation hopefully for their future Christian faith. And thank you all for your willingness to commit and help out in this ministry! Working together, with the help of God, we can accomplish great things for His glory through this effort. If you do have any questions, comments, or ideas, please let me know. I am thankful for all of the many members who help contribute in the work of the Lord here at Central. And please begin now to mark your calendars for our VBS on July 11-15.

It was good to be able to spend some time on the campus of Oklahoma Christian during their annual lectureship program earlier this week. These are such beneficial opportunities and I appreciate being able to attend. I believe several of our members attended with several ladies taking advantage of the ladies' program on Tuesday. To me, one of the highlights of lectureships is always getting to see many preachers and elders, and other friends.

This first month of the year has brought a number of deaths to our congregation, both our own members and members' families. Death is always a constant reminder that life is brief and fragile. (James 4:13-17). Fresh is the impression that now is the time to live right, do right, and be right. We are saddened by these losses but we are encouraged in our faith and hope. We do not grieve as those who have no hope. (1 Thess. 4:13)

--Robert--

We rejoice in the baptism of Marla Miller after Wednesday evening services last week. Marla is the daughter of Cheryl Miller.

We extend our very best wishes for a long and happy marriage to Sarah and Billy Lawerance. Sarah and Billy were united in marriage on Saturday afternoon. They will be residing at 2324 Faith Blvd., Shawnee, OK 74804. Billy is the son of Bill and Diane Lawerance.

The elders have recently approved a $1,000 contribution to assist tsunami victims in Thailand. This is being done through the Broken Arrow Church that oversees mission work in Thailand.

We would like to thank you with all our hearts for the wonderful shower, all the gifts and cards, and the group gift, and especially for Betty [Emery], Mary [Kelly], and Rita [Romberg] for putting it all together for us.

We love you all, Billy & Sarah Lawerance

Gertrude Andes is seriously ill and had to go from a room to ICU for two days last week. When the Gospel Guide was prepared, she had returned to room 305 at Unity Health Center.
Bob Hardin was discharged from Oklahoma Heart Hospital on Friday of last week. He is expecting to have a defibrillator implant soon.
Bill Fleming had to spend several hours in ER at Unity Health Center over the weekend.
Eddie Morris remained in critical condition in ICU at Baptist Medical Center at publication time.
Sarah Smith's sister, Sherry Ann Nevels, is in critical condition in coronary ICU at Norman Regional Hospital. Sarah urgently requests your prayers.
Delbert Knight went home for a brief time last week and then had to be readmitted to Norman Regional Hospital. He lives in Stratford and is the brother of Ann Bivins and Vonda Merrill.
Millie Riley returned home from the hospital several days ago.

Another young soul was added to the church last week. Marla Miller was baptized into Christ after services Wednesday evening. We are all very happy with Marla's decision to walk in Christ's footsteps. Remember her in your prayers as she begins her new journey.

I made a mistake last week. Hannah Farris is on the Shawnee Swim team this year, not running track. Why is the swim season in the winter/spring? Anyway, our tracksters had their first meet last Saturday at the Expo Center. Courtney, Ryan and Austin were all there showing their school spirit.

I had the privilege of watching Sean Parman play basketball last week. Sean plays ball on the sophomore team for Shawnee, He played a great game and scored 5 points, draining a 3 pointer at the game ending buzzer. Way to go Sean!

The calendar for February is on the bulletin board for any parents who seem to never see one. There is one thing on the calendar that I want to bring to your attention. The OC Youth Forum/Spring Sing isn't until March 5^th, but the Spring Sing tickets need to be purchased in advance. I need to know if you're planning to go by next Sunday, then I'll need your $12 by Feb. 16^th. The price includes a day at the college with lunch being provided and Spring Sing. If you have any questions about the Youth Forum or Spring Sing, just ask!