Presently, the leaves and the rain are falling from the sky and covering the ground here in Arkansas. It's a beautiful sight! Their testimony testifies to an even more significant down pouring; God's steadfast love and faithfulness to His people. As we look back at the month of October, that is what we realize; God has been faithful, merciful, and relentlessly loving. 

To begin, we had been eagerly anticipating the Parenting Conference which Mickey Connolly was to be leading in our church and we were not disappointed. I would like to draw attention to a few ways in which the Lord met us during this conference. 

Firstly, Mickey and Jane brought with them so much love, joy, and encouragement. Our church was so excited to see them again. They served us the entire weekend as they pursued meetings with the pastors and their families, joyfully attended our tailgate event, and faithfully stewarded the teaching time. The content of Mickey's teaching on parenting left us inspired and provided for us categories of consideration in how to faithfully shepherd our children. 

Secondly, our church served in a way that I have never seen before. The ways that God has gifted members of this church was put on full display. For example, Lynda Hicklin, Barbara Root, and Sandy Goeke sprung into action as they artistically decorated the church building for the event. It was breathtakingly beautiful; both their decoration and their hearts to serve. In addition, they arranged a welcome package for Mickey and Jane that adequately communicated our appreciation of them. Pictures of the event will be posted below. 

Next, we shared in the celebration of marriage of two church members; Caleb and Alyssa Washburn. We love these two and it was an honor for me (Matt) to be able to officiate their wedding. Once again, we witnessed our church serve in ways that brought our hearts satisfaction and joy. It was the kind of serving that was self-sacrificing and thus God glorifying. 

For example, Kolbi Shock generously offered to serve by doing makeup for all the ladies in the wedding party; the Mular family arrived early and stayed late to set up and tear down for the event; countless families pitched in to provide a meal during the reception; Zach Taylor and Stephen Tatem ran sound and DJ'd the reception; and Hannah Stinson served as a wedding planner. Honestly, that is just a few of the ways in which members served during this event. It was beautiful to see God's people love God's people. 

This month was also huge for Hannah Stinson and Bri Bowerman and their efforts to minister to the international students at the University of Arkansas. If you are unfamiliar with their ministry, it's quite the story! They both felt that the Lord was burdening their heart for international students and as they began to seek opportunities to serve on the campus, the Lord opened the door with the BCM.

The BCM told them that they had everything in place for someone to minister to the international students but were lacking the people to lead the mission. Then comes Bri and Hannah! Wow! Their gatherings on Thursday nights have been growing rapidly. For example, over 20 people showed up for their last meeting. Well done, ladies! We are praying for you. 

And lastly, we held another membership information meeting this month. What this means is that God is growing the church. We are astonished at what He is doing and the wonderful saints that He is adding to our fellowship. We are afforded the opportunity to watch Him build His church. Is he not the best builder? He is the most efficient with resources, the wisest one to bestow gifts and roles, and the most courageous leader. 

Our response is simply: "Lord, thank you for letting us play a part in your mission in Arkansas and the world. Please do not stop what you have obviously begun!"

Thank you again for reading this months newsletter. We love you and thank God for you. 

Your pastors and friends,

Matt, Zach, and Tim