From The Elders...

In the fall of 2005, we embarked upon a journey to live life “Beyond Belief.” As you will recall, we defined living Beyond Belief as…

• Moving beyond intellectual knowledge to practicing a faith that “works.”
• Moving beyond words to tangible acts of sacrifice and service.

It is living out the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

If we are growing in our mission—to mature in the faith and be equipped to give our lives away—then over time we will experience authentic life change, and that life change will express itself in Kingdom influence that is tangible, radical and real.

On the following pages you will read some stories from the fall of this past year … “God Stories” of people in this community of faith who are “taking the basket off the lamp” and letting the light, and life, of Christ shine. Their faith is putting calluses on their hands, sweat on their brow, and holes in their shoes.

And, just as God promised, it is putting life in their own hearts.

Read closely and you will not see individuals or a church as much as you will see Jesus manifested in and through His people. For living Beyond Belief is all about His name, His purposes, His plans and His Glory.

That the name of Jesus be lifted up, we endeavor to continue living … Beyond Belief.

Bill Wellons and Lloyd Shadrach