This issue starts off with a nice picture to illustrate the theme scripture. Ken Pagaard writes an article titled "The Gospel" to start the issue.
This article is basically a discussion of evangelism. Ken is quite correct in stating that there seemed to be a new emphasis on evangelism. The first few years of community were essentially evangelistic. Community started as a means to help the people that had been won to Christ to have a protected place to grow. But as we began to have more and more people with severe problems (emotionally, mentally and addictive) we concentrated more on healing those we had rather than reach out for more.
The Billy Graham Crusade was a major event, and we were involved at many levels. I was the coordinator for Lay Men's work in the South Bay. I had to contact the pastors to elicit their cooperation and receive lists of their key laymen. Then we arranged training for ushers, counselors etc. It was a big job. I might add that I was "roped" into this position by Clay Ford -- I didn't really volunteer.
Secondly was the "Here's Life Campaign." This was an outreach through the use of advertisement and phone outreach.
Ken's warning about having a shallow interpretation of evangelism was well taken. The Great Commission was to make disciples -- and we really did take this seriously.
Ken continues with the exhortation that we are to evangelize so that we can build the church. In salvation we receive much, but Jesus also demands much. When we share the gospel we must honestly present both sides to the person we are evangelizing.
Tim Pagaard brings another McFoone strip with another truism -- we seek God because that is the way we are made -- not out of obligation.
On this page, Ken concludes his article.
Even though Larry was not the "Professional Director of Christian Education," he did fulfill that function (among several others). He writes about the issue of discipleship with the children. Mary Fountain is the wife of Dave Fountain. Dave was a chaplain in the Navy -- a Commander. Dave and Mary were in the church for several years and then moved to Fallbrook. Finally the moved to Florida and I don't know of their current status. Incidentally, Dave's brother, Dan, is the missionary doctor in Zaire that pops up in OLT from time to time.
"If My People" is continuing. This was a very successful ecumenical ministry at that time.
This is another example of our work with children. The whole church was really involved with them. Our young artists were very good at working with our children.
This is an injunction to pray for our country. While this is always timely, note the date of the issue; it is no accident in 1976 that we are praying for the country and singing the musical "If My People."
The "In the Family" section is always interesting to me -- it brings back memories. Joe Marone was one of the leading guys in the early coffee house days. He was badly injured in an automobile accident. He passed away a number of years ago.
The banner is advertising the House of Abba on Saturday Nights.
Brenda Smith (Gire) always drew delightful pictures of animals and children. I believe that she is still in FBCCV. She lived at Westby Household for several years at the same time as our family. When we left Westby, Brenda moved with us.
Shelly Hendrickson (daughter of Glee Blasingame) was a teenager when she wrote this poem. She is now an Elementary School Teacher and still lives in the area. Once again, I believe that she attends FBCCV.
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