This is FaithStation!

This Blog is Moving!

2008-08-20T14:51:00.002-04:00

This blog is moving. You can access the new blog here. This blog will remain for archive purposes, but will not be updated any longer.

IMPACT Virginia! Bluefield Videos

2008-07-01T08:00:00.004-04:00

Here are some videos from IMPACT. Enjoy!

IMPACT Video!

Thursday night video.

This is Deathball!

We're at IMPACT!

2008-06-23T22:22:00.002-04:00

We're at IMPACT Virginia! this week. We're spending the week here in Bluefield. So far things are going well. I hope to post some pictures later in the week. Please keep praying for us!

Youth EnCounter (YEC)

2008-06-05T16:48:00.001-04:00

YEC is Thursday and Friday, July 31-August 1. It is at the Richmond International Raceway again this year. There is big news - Kings Dominion has been added back to the schedule! Sign up begins this Sunday. Cost is $100 ($80 if you have a KD season pass) and includes the conference, hotel stay, a YEC T-shirt, KD pass and an all-you-can-eat dinner for Friday night at KD.

Sign up with your name and T-shirt size on the sign up sheet in the FaithStation room and turn in a $40 deposit by July 11. We will have a car wash fundraiser on July 19 to help lower costs. Click on the YEC banner above for more details about YEC!

Vacation Bible School (VBS)

2008-06-05T16:42:00.002-04:00

VBS is July 7-11 and we need your help! VBS is a great opportunity for children to hear about Jesus and for youth to use their gifts in service! Sign up to be a worker for VBS starts this Sunday!

There will be a mandatory Youth VBS Worker Orientation at the end of FaithStation on Sunday, June 29. If you are or will be age 18 by VBS, you must complete the Protection Policy training that will be offered Sunday, June 29 at 10 AM in Whitten Hall.

We will have after-VBS lunch outings each day, with a special party celebration on Friday! More details will come soon!

Father's Day Contest

2008-06-05T16:29:00.004-04:00

If you haven't done so yet, start thinking now about the Father's Day Contest!

These guidelines will apply:

Do something special with/for your dad (or other special man in your life - grandfather, uncle, etc.)
Take a picture with your dad during the something special you do
Send the picture and a brief description of what you did to me

We'll have a random drawing of all the entries received while we are at IMPACT. The winning dad and youth will both win prizes!

IMPACT Virginia! Commissioning

2008-06-05T16:26:00.000-04:00

IMPACT commissioning will take place Sunday, June 15, during the morning worship service. Please make every effort to be a part of this special time and invite your family to share in the moment as well.

The Perfect Alibi Trailer

2008-05-17T23:32:00.003-04:00

Check out the trailer for Elaine's short film, The Perfect Alibi.

You'll have the opportunity to view the film on Saturday, May 31, at 7:30 PM in Whitten Hall.

Way to go Elaine! (And all the other Westwood youth and college students involved!)

Youth News

2008-05-15T12:25:00.003-04:00

IMPACT Training Begins This Sunday! Our first training session will take place this Sunday at 4:30 PM in the Green Room. Other IMPACT training dates have been set for the following Sundays: May 25 and June 1. Note: there is no training on June 8 as previously advertised - sorry for any confusion this may have caused. Training is mandatory - if you cannot make a session, you must notify Tom Kern as soon as possible. Training sessions will take place from 4:30-6:00 PM in the Green Room.

IMPACT commisioning will take place Sunday, June 15.

Mother's Day Contest! Last Sunday was Mother's Day. We are having a simple contest that all youth are eligible to participate in - do something special with/for your mom and you (and she) can win a prize! Here's what you have to do:
*Do something special with/for your mom (or other special woman in your life - grandmother, aunt, etc.)
*Take a picture with your mom during the something special you do
*Send the picture and a brief description of what you did to me
We'll have a random drawing from all the entries received by this Sunday, May 18 - the drawing will take place that night at FaithStation (you do not need to be present to win). Your something special did not have to take place on Mother's Day - so if you still haven't done something with/for your mom, do it now!

Click here for this week's YS Student Newsletter. This week's issue contains a chapter from Generation Change, a book by sixteen-year-old Zach Hunter, that offers you ideas on how you can make a difference in the lives of others with the simple gift of clothing.

Click here for this week's YS Parent Newsletter. This week's issue has an excerpt from The Parent You Want to Be by Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott. It helps us understand why it's important to celebrate our children.

Upcoming Student Activities - Do you have an extracurricular activity (school or community) that you'd like us to know about? Email Stephen and we'll let others know about what you are doing so they can come out and show you support!

Don't forget to check the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed of all that is happening!

Youth Family Cookout

2008-04-17T16:16:00.005-04:00

Youth Family Cookout
Westwood Baptist Church
Sunday, May 4, 6:00PM to 7:30PM

Your whole family is invited to come celebrate with us at our annual Youth Family Cookout!

NEW THIS YEAR!

New Theme! New Menu! New Location! New Games!

We'll also have our first-ever 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament!

We'll grill up some fajitas and we'll have plenty of chips and salsa as we get an early start on celebrating Cinco de Mayo! Come for plenty of food, fun, and fellowship! Bring blankets and/or lawn chairs!

3-on-3 Tournament Information:

Must have one (and only one) adult on team

Must have at least one female on team

Can have 4 players on team and make two substitutions per game

Baskets count as one point; first team to 5 wins (or whoever is ahead at the end of five minutes)

Single elimination tournament

Winning team gets a prize!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO RSVP!

In the event of rain, we'll still eat and have games/activities in Whitten Hall and we'll reschedule the 3-on-3 tournament for a later date.

The Youth News

2008-04-17T16:08:00.002-04:00

This year for IMPACT Virginia! we will be going to Bluefield. The cost for this missions opportunity is $160. All forms and payments are due THIS SUNDAY! Contact Tom Kern for more details. Forms and money can be dropped off at the church office between 9 AM - 4 PM weekdays or you may give them directly to Tom or Stephen. Forms can be found at the top right corner of the blog.

IMPACT training dates have been set for the following Sundays: May 18, May 25, June 1, and June 8. Training is mandatory - if you cannot make a session, you must notify Tom Kern as soon as possible. Training sessions will take place from 4:30-6:00 PM in the Green Room. IMPACT commisioning will take place Sunday, June 15.

Sunday, May 4, is Senior Adult Day at Westwood. We will help to make it a special day by hosting a special luncheon for the senior adults after the worship service. We'll set-up the fellowship hall, prepare the food (soup, sandwiches, salad, desserts), and we'll serve the senior adults. This is a great way to show your appreciation for the senior adults in the church and to say thank you for all the support they give the youth group! Sign up with Stephen on Sunday or sign up by email.

We'll have our annual Youth Family Cookout on Sunday, May 4th, from 6:00-7:30 PM. We've got some new things this year! Since we'll be close to Cinco de Mayo, we're going to have a Fiesta! - so there will be lots of great Mexican food and games (pinata anyone?) for the entire family! We'll also be meeting at the church this year because we are having our first-ever 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament! Click here to see the details and to RSVP!

Wednesday nights are Church Family Nights. We begin with a meal ($3.50) at 5:30 PM, followed by youth topical seminars at 6:30 PM. Tom Kern is leading our current seminar, "Who Am I When Nobody's Looking?" It is a look at character development - "you can talk the talk, but can you walk the walk?" We meet in the Green Room from 6:30-7:30 PM. Come join in the conversation this Wednesday!

Click here for this week's YS Student Newsletter. Inside this week's issue, you will find a devotional thought called, "Aren't All Religions Basically the Same?" It is taken from My Faith by Kurt Johnston and Mark Oestreicher.

Click here for this week's YS Parent Newsletter. This week, YS President, Mark Oestreicher, helps parents understand the transitions young teens are experiencing.

Remember to check the calendar at the bottom of the blog to stay current with what is happening in our youth ministry!

The Youth News

2008-04-10T15:09:00.003-04:00

Youth Sunday is this Sunday, April 13! We will be leading the congregation in worship. We'll be focusing around the theme of Jesus as the Good Shepherd (Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10). We need the whole youth group to attend this service. Those who are leading/serving (greeters/ushers, offering, children's time, announcements, musicians, prayers, scripture readers, tech team, etc.) need to be in the sanctuary at 10:30 AM to review the service. The Youth Choir will be practicing at 10 AM in the sanctuary.

This year for IMPACT Virginia! we will be going to Bluefield. The cost for this missions opportunity is $160. All forms and payments are due AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! Contact Tom Kern for more details. Forms and money can be dropped off at the church office between 9 AM - 4 PM weekdays or you may give them directly to Tom or Stephen. Forms can be found at the top right corner of the blog. IMPACT training dates have been set for the following Sundays: May 18, May 25, June 1, and June 8. Training is mandatory - if you cannot make a session, you must notify Tom Kern as soon as possible. Training sessions will take place from 4:30-6:00 PM in the Green Room. IMPACT commisioning will take place Sunday, June 15.

Sunday, May 4, is Senior Adult Day at Westwood. We will help to make it a special day by hosting a special luncheon for the senior adults after the worship service. We'll set-up the fellowship hall, prepare the food (soup, sandwiches, salad, desserts), and we'll serve the senior adults. This is a great way to show your appreciation for the senior adults in the church and to say thank you for all the support they give the youth group! Sign up with Stephen on Sunday or sign up by email.

We'll have our annual Youth Family Cookout on Sunday, May 4th, from 6:00-7:30 PM. Since we'll be close to Cinco de Mayo, we're going to have a Fiesta! this year - so there will be lots of great Mexican food and games (pinata anyone?) for the entire family! LOOK FOR YOUR INVITATION SOON!

Click here for this week's YS Student Newsletter. Inside this week's issue, you will find a devotional thought about safe sex called, "What Jesus Might Say to You." It is taken from Conversations with Jesus by Youth For Christ.

Click here for this week's YS Parent Newsletter. Inside this week's issue, you'll find an article from Mark Oestreicher, the president of Youth Specialties, that deals with young teens and their struggle with doubts.

Remember to check the calendar at the bottom of the blog to stay current with what is happening in our youth ministry!

Spring Break Activities!

2008-03-13T11:31:00.001-04:00

DINNER & WIZARDS GAME
Monday, March 17
Meet at Franconia-Springfield Metro at 4 PM.
Dinner at Fuddruckers
Visit Chinatown
Wizards game vs. Atlanta Hawks
Bring money for Metro ($6.65), dinner ($7-$12), and game ticket ($10).
Game ticket money can be a check made out to Westwood.
Pick up at the Metro around 10:30 PM.

LASER TAG
Wednesday, March 19
Meet at Shadowland Laser Adventure Center
in Alexandria (5508 Franconia Rd.) at 4 PM.
Cost is approx. $15 for 2 adventures.
Click here for Shadowland's waiver form - must have to play!
Bring extra money for snack bar (optional).
Pick up from Shadowland at 5:30 PM.

JUBILEE SERVICE PROJECT
Saturday, March 22
Meet at the church at 9 AM.
We'll journey to Bealeton (south of Warrenton) for a service project at Community Touch followed by lunch/hangout time with Cornerstone's youth group.
Come prepared for indoor or outdoor work and be ready to get messy!
We'll return back to the church around 2:30 PM.

Students
Please RSVP to Stephen and let me know which activities you will be attending. Click here for a permission form for the week's events.
Adults
We need chaperones and/or drivers for these events. Email Stephen if you are available to help. Thanks!

HOLY WEEK WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES @ WESTWOOD
Palm Sunday - Vivaldi Gloria - March 16 @ 11 AM
Maundy Thursday Service - March 20 @ 7:30 PM (hangout at Starbucks after)
Labyrinth - March 20 & 21
Easter Sunrise Service - March 23 @ 6:30 AM (Springfield Country Club)
Easter Sunday - March 23 @ 11 AM

Mama Mia's 2008 - "TV Like You Have Never Experienced Before"

2008-02-27T10:47:00.003-05:00

Saturday night's Mama Mia's was wonderful! The hard work of so many people really paid off as over 200 people enjoyed a wonderful spaghetti supper and show. A big thanks goes out to John Freeman, Ariel Goldchain, Wren & Jeanette Meyers, Patti Rothwell, Mark & Ginger Schiffner, Tom Kern, Pam Bryson, Holly Schmitz, and Donna Hill for all their leadership! And an even bigger thanks goes out to all the other volunteers who helped prepare and serve the meal, decorate, plan the show, participate in the show, and clean up afterwards! Without you, Mama Mia's is not possible! The big beneficiary of Mama Mia's (after all the fun had by all) is youth missions! THANK YOU CHURCH FOR SUPPORTING US!

This year's theme was "TV Like You Have Never Experienced Before" and the show centered around Ariel's new PlasmaTron 3D-HD-RV-1000 television. Enjoy these videos of the show!

Introduction to the Show & "Crazy Bunch" Song

Ariel's Mantuary

Oh, No! It's a Re-Run!

Shakespeare, Anyone?

Erin Sings

IBJ Syndrome

Caffeine Cafe

Target Commercial #1

A Book Report on Peter Rabbit

Sweet Smile Toothpaste Commercial

Kids Say The Darndest Things!

Bald Men's Hair Club

Hannah Sings

Ariel Sings(?)

Target Commercial #2

Lassie

Breaking News from the BBC

The Wizard of Oz - "Over the Rainbow"

The Wizard of Oz - "Munchkin Land" & "Follow the Yellow Brick Road"

Melancholy Moonlight Mortuary, Mini-Mart, & All-Night Body Shop Commercial

The Altos "Sing a Song"

I was not able to record all the acts - check church library for complete show.

JUBILEE Retreat Pictures & Videos

2008-02-19T15:17:00.005-05:00

We had a great time at the JUBILEE Retreat! Check out the pictures and videos to see what you missed!

JUBILEE Retreat Theme Song, Give Reviving

After-Dinner Fun with Twitchy!

Marty's Bizarre Eyes!

IMPACT VA! Bluefield

2008-02-14T14:40:00.008-05:00

It's that time again! We are registered for another great week of Impact Virginia!

Impact Virginia! is a coed youth missions opportunity involving teenagers in "hands on" ministry projects in Virginia. Baptist youth from across the state join forces to make an impact on local communities through a variety of ministry projects focusing primarily on home renovation and construction needs of low-income, elderly, or special needs families. Each Impact Virginia session involves from 150 to 300 youth assigned to work teams of 8 - 15 persons. Participants work all day on their sites under the supervision of qualified construction coordinators and other adult leaders. Impact Virginia works with local housing and social service agencies and Baptist Associations to designate priority housing needs. Work includes painting, roofing, cleaning, interior/exterior renovation, and general carpentry. Morning and evening worship celebrations will help begin and end the day of work with the right spirit and attitude. This year we will be going to Bluefield, Virginia. The cost for this missions opportunity is $160. All forms and payments must be turned in by Sunday, April 6. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR EARLY REGISTRATION SPECIAL: SAVE $25 AND PAY ONLY $135 IF YOU TURN IN YOUR FORMS AND MONEY BY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 29! See Tom Kern or Stephen for forms. Forms may also be found on our Google Groups page. NEW! You can also find the forms here (.pdf) and here (.doc).

I'll leave you with this message from Tom. After you read it, I think you'll be as fired up about Impact as I am!

"Just want you to know that I am really looking forward to this IMPACT Virginia! opportunity...

...It gives us a chance to put our faith in action...in plain sight...for the world to see

...It gives us a chance to strengthen our own belief...surrounded by other believers

...It gives us a chance to serve others...as we know we should

...(And, it's great fun)

...But in the middle of your preparation for this week on a construction site...

...Take a moment to think about the Carpenter

...Who travels with us, and

...Who works right alongside each of us

...Our reason for believing."

Famous Couples Party (2008) Pictures

2008-02-14T14:34:00.003-05:00

Famous Couples Party!

2008-02-08T10:54:00.000-05:00

You’re invited to come join in the hilarity at the Westwood Baptist
Youth Group’s NEW AND IMPROVED 8th Annual
Famous Couples Party
February 9, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm

Grab a friend (or two) and dress as your favorite couple (or trio)!
i.e., Green Eggs & Ham, Barbie & Ken, The Blues Brothers, Charlie's Angels, etc.

Be Creative!

PRIZES AWARDED FOR BEST COSTUMES IN SEVERAL DIFFERENT CATEGORIES!
Everyone in costume is eligible for a special door prize!

Food! Fun! Fellowship!

Location: Westwood Baptist Church, 8200 Old Keene Mill Road
Whitten Hall

Can’t find a partner or don’t have time to pull together a costume?
Come anyway!

You won’t want to miss the fun, games and refreshments!

Lenten Devotions

2008-02-07T00:18:00.000-05:00

Youth News

2008-01-31T16:42:00.000-05:00

Make plans now to be a part of our February is for FaithStation Lovers! Week. We'll kick off the week with our annual FaithStation Super Bowl Party on Sunday, February 3. We'll have our regular Youth Dinner at 6 PM, followed by the game! We'll have plenty of snacks and drinks and we'll even have a game table set up for the non-football lovers out there. Also for entertainment, we'll get to watch Jessica throw a pie in Marty's face! At the party, you'll find out who your Secret Sweetie is and you'll get some helpful hints on how to make Secret Sweeties Week an awesome time for all! Secret Sweeties takes place from February 4-8. The week concludes with the Famous Couples Party on Saturday, February 9 at 6 PM. Grab a friend, pick a famous couple, and come dressed as that couple. This is a costume party and prizes will be given in several categories, including best costumes, most original, most creative, and more! Of course, there will also be food, dancing, and games! Make plans now to join us for this exciting week!

SECRET SWEETIES SIGN UP DEADLINE IS TOMORROW!
PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL STEPHEN TO SIGN UP!

JUBILEE Retreat - See Below for Special Discount Information!
All youth are invited to join us on a retreat February 15-17 with Cornerstone Baptist (Warrenton) as we explore the idea of Jubilee. We will investigate how God seeks reconciliation in our relationships locally, globally and environmentally in our world today. On the retreat we will pray, have conversations, and work together to bring jubilee into reality. We'll also have lots of fun! Jon Middendorf will be our speaker and we'll have a guest worship band. We'll be staying at the LivingStone Monastery in Newport News. We hope you can make it! Feel free to bring a friend! The cost of the retreat is $125. A $50 deposit is due Sunday, February 3. Special Discount Available - Save $25 off your total cost if you turn in your deposit on time! Cost includes retreat T-shirt along with all meals, lodging, and activities for the weekend. Financial assistance is available - see Stephen.

Special Ash Wednesday Service
The youth will observe Ash Wednesday in a special service on Wednesday, February 6. The service will be from 6:45-7:30 PM in the sanctuary. This meaningful service of reflection and repentance marks the beginning of Lent. Scripture, music, prayer, and the imposition of ashes will highlight the service. As always, Church Family Night begins with a meal ($3.50) at 5:30 PM. Join us for this special evening!

PlanetWisdom Student Conference Is Coming Soon!
The PlanetWisdom Student Conference is coming to Hylton Memorial Chapel on March 7-8. The cost is $40. The conference will be led by Mark Matlock, Sean McDowell, The Skit Guys, and Addison Road. The theme is Become More and is based on 1 Peter 5:6. This theme of complete surrender to God fits in nicely with this year's youth group theme of "Whatever." Join us for an exciting and unforgettable experience! See Stephen to sign up and/or to discuss financial assistance.

THINGS YOU MIGHT FIND INTERESTING
Tonight, Friday, and Saturday

South County One Act Plays (featuring Scott Morgan and Justin Alderson)
7:30 PM in the auditorium; COST: $7

Friday

Lake Braddock Chorus Silent Auction and Swing Dance
(featuring Erin Donnelly and Andrew Rothwell)
7-10 PM in the cafeteria; Cost: $5 (includes food, fun, and dance lessons)

Saturday

Region One Act Play Competition at Lake Braddock SS

Don't forget to check the calendar at the bottom of the blog for more event information!

"He put a new song in my mouth..."

2008-01-28T13:54:00.000-05:00

In response to our discussion last night at FaithStation, we crafted songs to God that are expressions of our "God moments" - those times in our lives when we know deep in our souls that God is present. As promised, here is mine. If you'd like to share yours, please add it in the comments section.

Your love, O LORD, is beyond words.

When I find myself at the end of my rope;

When I find myself without hope;

When I feel that I am all alone;

You are there.

You are there, in the shadows.

You are there, in the silence.

You are there, in the middle of all the chaos that is life.

In unseen and unexpected ways, O LORD, you make your presence known.

And that makes all the difference.

Thank you LORD.

If only there were words to adequately express your love and your presence.

Thank you LORD.

You are enough.

Movie & Dinner Saturday Night!

2008-01-25T15:16:00.000-05:00

JOIN US FOR A MOVIE & DINNER ON SATURDAY!

DATE: Saturday, January 26

TIME: Meet at 4 PM; Pick up at 7:30 PM

LOCATION: Kingstowne 16 in Alexandria

MORE: Bummed you couldn't go skiing? Come watch Juno with us.

Juno is nominated for best picture this year. We'll get dinner afterwards and talk about the movie over at Johnny Rockets (next to the theatre). Bring money for the movie and for dinner. The movie is rated PG-13. Please bring a note from your parents saying it is okay for you to see the movie. A great review from a Christian perspective can be found here.

RSVP to me so I know to look for you!

Parents and Youth Workers are welcome to join us!

Youth News

2008-01-24T16:30:00.000-05:00

February is for FaithStation Lovers! Week
Sign up this Sunday to be a part of our February is for FaithStation Lovers! Week. We'll kick off the week with our annual FaithStation Super Bowl Party on Sunday, February 3. We'll have our regular Youth Dinner at 6 PM, followed by the game! We'll have plenty of snacks and drinks and we'll even have a game table set up for the non-football lovers out there. At the party, you'll find out who your Secret Sweetie is and you'll get some helpful hints on how to make Secret Sweeties Week an awesome time for all! The week concludes with the Famous Couples Party on Saturday, February 9. Grab a friend, pick a famous couple, and come dressed as that couple. This is a costume party and prizes will be given in several categories, including best costumes, most original, most creative, and more! Of course, there will also be food, dancing, and games! JOIN IN THE FUN BY SIGNING UP THIS SUNDAY OR SIGN UP NOW BY EMAIL!
Sign up for Secret Sweeties by Thursday, January 31!

JUBILEE Retreat

All youth are invited to join us on a retreat February 15-17 with Cornerstone Baptist (Warrenton) as we explore the idea of Jubilee. We will investigate how God seeks reconciliation in our relationships locally, globally and environmentally in our world today. On the retreat we will pray, have conversations, and work together to bring jubilee into reality. We'll also have lots of fun! Jon Middendorf will be our speaker and we'll have a guest worship band. We'll be staying at the LivingStone Monastery in Newport News. We hope you can make it! Feel free to bring a friend! The cost of the retreat is $125; a $50 deposit is due February 3. Cost includes retreat T-shirt along with all meals, lodging, and activities for the weekend. Financial assistance is available - see Stephen.

What's Happening On Wednesday Nights?
Wednesday nights are Church Family Nights. We begin with a meal ($3.50) at 5:30 PM, followed by youth topical seminars at 6:30 PM. Currently, we're talking about dating and relationships on Wednesday nights. Come join in the conversation! We meet in the Green Room from 6:30-7:30 PM. We'll kick each night off with a game and then we'll get down to our discussions. Come this next Wednesday as we explore these topics: Friendship Before Romance, Being the Right Person, and Finding the Right Person. Don't miss it - you might even hear some embarassing stories from my dating days!

PlanetWisdom Student Conference

The PlanetWisdom Student Conference is coming to Hylton Memorial Chapel on March 7-8. The cost is $40. The conference will be led by Mark Matlock, Sean McDowell, The Skit Guys, and Addison Road. The theme is Become More and is based on 1 Peter 5:6. This theme of complete surrender to God fits in nicely with this year's youth group theme of "Whatever." Join us for an exciting and unforgettable experience! See Stephen to sign up and/or to discuss financial assistance.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

New Newsletter

2008-01-18T16:21:00.000-05:00

I sent out the first of our revamped Youth News newsletters this afternoon. I hope you will look at it, read through it, and then send me feedback on it. If you didn't get it, shoot me an email and I'll get you on the list. I'd like to know if you like it, what you think of the new format, any suggestions you have, etc. I'd really like our newsletters to be great communication tools, not just another email in your inbox. So please send your feedback.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T15:14:00.000-05:00

Advent Devotions

2007-12-07T14:31:00.000-05:00

Following The Star

Youth News

2007-12-07T14:21:00.000-05:00

Springfield Gardens Christmas Party – This annual fun, fellowship, and outreach opportunity has been set for 1-4 PM on Saturday, December 8, at the apartment complex on Commerce Street. Last year folks from Westwood helped by bringing goodies such as cookies, chips, and drinks; setting up, serving, and cleaning up; translating; taking pictures; and encouraging families and friends. This is a great family missions opportunity.

This week @ FaithStation: What does true peace really look like?

Youth Choir Cantata Schedule:
*Sunday, December 9 - Last youth choir rehearsal at 5 PM - Don't miss it!
*Saturday, December 15 - Combined choir rehearsal with orchestra at 2 PM in the sanctuary.
*Sunday, December 16 - Be in the sanctuary at 10:30 AM; girls wear black bottoms and white tops; guys wear dark pants, white shirt, and red tie.

Our Progressive Dinner and Christmas Party is set for Saturday, December 15. Meet at 4:45 PM in the Green Room. Wear your most formal dinner/dancing attire. You'll be put in groups, enjoy dinner, and then meet back at the church for the gift exchange and party. Please bring a wrapped gift (no more than $5 in cost - be creative) if you want to participate in the gift exchange. As always, we will also collect canned goods for the food pantry. Sign up deadline is this Sunday, December 9.

FaithStation Road Trip - FaithStation is hitting the road on Sunday, December 16! We'll be attending the "Jazz at the Vespers - Christmas Style" service at Convergence - A Creative Community of Faith. The service will feature Never in Denver, Harp 46, and Convergence musicians. This service is designed and led by musicians. Following the service is a reception in the art gallery. We'll meet at the church at 4 PM and travel over to Convergence in Alexandria. More details to come.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: How does your family decorate your house for the Christmas? Congratulations to Claire and Christina - they are splitting the prize for favorite Thanksgiving memory!

Youth News

2007-11-29T15:55:00.000-05:00

Our annual Christmas Day Camp (Youth Babysitting) is this Saturday, December 1, from 10 AM - 2 PM. This is a service we provide to Westwood parents. Please show up at 9:30 AM if you are going to work the morning shift and at Noon if you are going to work the afternoon shift. You can receive service hours for this activity. Lunch will be provided for you. We still need adult help!

This week @ FaithStation: We will continue our discussion about what scripture says about God's heart for the hungry, poor, homeless, etc.

Springfield Gardens Christmas Party – This annual fun, fellowship, and outreach opportunity has been set for 1-4 PM on Saturday, December 8, at the apartment complex on Commerce Street. Last year folks from Westwood helped by bringing goodies such as cookies, chips, and drinks; setting up, serving, and cleaning up; translating; taking pictures; and encouraging families and friends. You can sign up to help at the welcome center in the narthex.

The Progressive Dinner and Christmas Party is set for Saturday, December 15. Meet at 4:45 PM in the Green Room. Wear your most formal dinner/dancing attire. You'll be put in groups, enjoy dinner, and then meet back at the church for the gift exchange and party. Please bring a wrapped gift (no more than $5 in cost - be creative) if you want to participate in the gift exchange. As always, we will also collect canned goods for the food pantry. Sign up deadline is Sunday, December 9.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: What is your favorite Thanksgiving memory? Leave your memory in the comments for a chance to win free movie passes. Deadline is this Sunday - we will have the drawing at FaithStation!

Youth News

2007-11-21T14:50:00.000-05:00

NO Church Family Night tonight!

NO Youth Choir practice this Sunday!

This week @ FaithStation: We will have a special roundtable discussion on the topic of Thanksgiving. Come join the discussion as we share about what we are thankful for and look at what scripture says about God's heart for the hungry, poor, homeless, etc. After FaithStation, we'll join the church in the "Hanging of the Greens", where we decorate the church for the Christmas season.

Our annual Christmas Day Camp (Youth Babysitting) is Saturday, December 1, from 10 AM - 2 PM. This is a service we provide to Westwood parents. Please sign up Sunday or sign up by emailing Stephen. If you'd like to be a part of the planning team (games, crafts, activities, etc.), please let Stephen know.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: What is your favorite Thanksgiving memory? Tell your favorite memory in the comments and you will be eligible to win two movie passes at the Kingstowne Theatre. We'll have a random drawing on Sunday, December 2, from all those who comment.

Youth News

2007-11-15T15:36:00.000-05:00

There are two fundraising walks you can participate in this weekend: the Help the Homeless Walkathon (Saturday, November 17)and the CROP Hunger Walk (Sunday, November 18).

Both raise money for great causes. See Tom Kern or Holly Schmitz if you are interested in the CROP Hunger Walk.

Don't forget: Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes are due this Sunday, November 18!

The church-wide Thanksgiving Dinner is Tuesday, November 20. Sign up Sunday at the Welcome Center in the narthex. Cost is $3.50.

Our annual Christmas Day Camp (Youth Babysitting) is Saturday, December 1, from 10 AM - 2 PM. This is a service we provide to Westwood parents. Please sign up Sunday or sign up by email. If you'd like to be a part of the planning team (games, crafts, activities, etc.), please let me know.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: What does friendship mean to you?

Youth News

2007-11-02T21:29:00.000-04:00

There will be a short meeting for all Threshold members this Sunday night after FaithStation.

There is a Service Project on Monday, November 5. Meet at the church at 10 AM and bring work gloves and rakes. We'll be done around 2 PM and we'll get lunch together around noon. ADULTS ARE NEEDED TO HELP DRIVE - PLEASE CONTACT STEPHEN!

The Youth Bowling Fellowship will take place Tuesday, November 6. Meet at the Bowl America in Burke at 11:30 AM. Pick up at Bowl America will be at 1:30 PM. Bring money for shoes ($3.40), games ($2.49 each), and lunch. There will be prizes for the best bowler and the worst bowler.

ALIVE! Middle School Conference sign up is ongoing. The conference is November 16-18. Cost is $85. A $20 deposit is due as soon as possible. There will be worship sessions, great speakers, bands, comedians, and more! Sign up deadline is Sunday, November 11! Right now, we have 8 students and adults going!

The Youth Choir is now working on the Christmas Cantata. The Cantata is Sunday, December 16, during the 11 AM service. Please come at 5 PM on Sundays if you want to be a part of the Christmas Cantata.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: What is special about today, November 2?

Youth News

2007-10-26T12:29:00.000-04:00

Due to the wet weather and some scheduling conflicts, Saturday's Corn Maze has been cancelled. INSTEAD, we'll watch a movie at the Kingstowne 16 Theatre. We'll watch The Game Plan. It is rated PG and starts at 7:15 PM. Be at the theater at 7 PM on Saturday night. The movie should be over around 9:15 PM. Drop off and pick up are at the theater. Ticket cost is $9.50 ($8.50 with your student ID). The theater's address is 5910 Kingstowne Towne Center, Alexandria, VA 22315. The first youth that correctly identifies the alter ego and famous saying of the star of this movie wins a free movie ticket. Leave your name and answers in the comments.

ALIVE! Middle School Conference sign up is ongoing. The conference is November 16-18. Cost is $85. A $20 deposit is due as soon as possible. There will be worship sessions, great speakers, bands, comedians, and more! Please let me know by Sunday if you are interested in attending the conference! Right now, we have 8 students and adults going!

There will be a Youth Leadership Council (YLC) meeting Sunday, October 28, after the morning worship service. Lunch will be provided. This meeting is mandatory for all youth who want to be on the YLC. Contact me if you are unable to attend.

The Youth Choir is now working on the Christmas Cantata. The Cantata is Sunday, December 16, during the 11 AM service. Please come at 5 PM on Sundays if you want to be a part of the Christmas Cantata.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: Who's going to win tonight's football game between Lake Braddock and West Springfield?

Youth News

2007-10-12T21:58:00.000-04:00

The funeral service for Keith Gilbert (Leah and Rachel's dad) is at 2 PM tomorrow (Saturday) at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax. Please remember the family in your prayers.

There will be a brief BWA World Youth Conference in Germany informational meeting this Sunday after the morning worship service in Room 18/20. We will discuss trip options, costs, fundraising, etc. If you are interested in this trip, please attend this meeting or, if you are unable to attend, please contact me so I can get you the information.

The Baltimore Blast Christian Youth Night is Friday, October 19. Enjoy an indoor soccer game and a post-game concert with Big Daddy Weave. Cost is $16. The final opportunity to sign up is this Sunday. WE STILL NEED ADULT SPONSORS FOR THIS ACTIVITY!

ALIVE! Middle School Conference sign up has begun. The conference is November 16-18. Cost is $85. A $20 deposit is due as soon as possible. There will be worship sessions, great speakers, bands, comedians, and more! Please let me know by this Sunday of you are interested in attending the conference!

The Corn Maze has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 27. We'll be heading down to Belvedere Plantation to enjoy the corn maze, fun barn, pig races, joust, zip line, and more. Cost is $12. Sign up this Sunday. WE STILL NEED ADULT SPONSORS FOR THIS ACTIVITY!

There will be a Youth Leadership Council (YLC) meeting Sunday, October 28, after the morning worship service. Lunch will be provided. This meeting is mandatory for all youth who want to be on the YLC. Contact me if you are unable to attend.

The Youth Choir is now working on the Christmas Cantata. The Cantata is Sunday, December 16, during the 11 AM service. There are 8 more rehearsals left. Please come at 5 PM on Sundays if you want to be a part of the Christmas Cantata.

Make sure you check out the Youth Ministry Calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the Week: Which school's football team is going to go the farthest in the playoffs this year?

This is FaithStation! (Sunday, September 30)

2007-10-03T11:48:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday we watched the NOOMA DVD Store and talked about anger. I hope you have been giving thought to some of the issues that were raised in the film and discussed in our time together. To help you with further reflection, I've listed the issues below. Please read them and feel free to continue the dialogue by making a comment to this post.

Many people carry around with them a low-grade boiling rage.
Anger is your body's way of telling you that your will has been blocked.
The problem isn't anger; it's what we do with it.
Is our response to anger about us (selfish kingdom) or about something larger than us (divine kingdom)?
Is what we are angry about worth getting angry about?
Has your anger scared you?
Jesus' anger leads to healing and restoration (Mark 3:1-5).
What can we do to ensure that our anger leads to making things better?
What makes you angry?
We were made to give ourselves to a cause bigger than ourselves.
Have you given yourself to a cause bigger than yourself that is making the world a better place? How is it making the world a better place?

Finally, may you find encouragement in these words from Rob Bell at the end of the film:

"May you become aware of your anger. May you learn to channel it, to focus it, direct it into something beautiful. And may it fuel sacred acts of healing and restoration."

Remedy

2007-09-28T17:07:00.000-04:00

Where there is pain, let us bring grace. Where there is suffering, bring serenity. For those afraid, let us be brave. Where there is misery, let us bring relief. Let us be the remedy.

If you haven't already checked out David Crowder*Band's new album, Remedy, do it now!

2007-09-07T17:01:00.000-04:00

Picture this. School has just started...the tension is rising already. You've had a week for the stress level to mount. Your head is already being crammed with useless knowledge. Brain about to burst. UNLESS...you find some way to release all of that tension and unwind. What better way than a good, old-fashioned demolition derby? A uniquely American (REDNECK) sporting event that focuses on total destruction of more than 100 cars, vans, (and sometimes buses), all in an effort by the Silver Hill Lion's Club to raise scholarship money.

Saturday, September 8

COST: $13

Meet at the church at 4:30 PM; return no later than 11:30 PM

Contact Stephen if you are not signed up yet and want to go!

Youth News

2007-09-07T16:57:00.000-04:00

Summit Lake Senior High Retreat is September 21-23! Sign up and pay your $20 deposit by this Sunday, September 9.

Youth Choir begins this Sunday, September 9, at 5 PM, in the Music Suite. Contact Pat Close for more information.

Small Groups sign up has begun! Sign up with Stephen! We will be having a Youth Leadership Council (YLC) small group this year - let Stephen know if you are interested.

Church Family Night (CFN) begins Wednesday, September 12. Dinner is served from 5:30-6:30 PM. Dinner costs $3.50. Reservations must be received in the church office by noon on Monday. Youth activities are from 6:30-7:30 PM.

Awakening Festival '07 is Saturday, September 15, at the Bull Run Park - Special Events Center in Centreville. Featured artists include Toby Mac, Barlow Girl, DecembeRadio, NeedToBreathe, This Beautiful Republic, Mainstay, Ashes Remain, and speaker Tom Davis. There will also be rock climbing walls, gladiator jousting, giant slide, volleyball, and much more! Cost is $15 in advance, $20 at the gate. The group rate is $13 for groups of 10+. Sign up and pay by September 12 if you are interested in going. This is a great event for the whole family!

Open House @ FaithStation is Sunday, September 16, from 6-8 PM, in Whitten Hall. Youth, parents, and youth workers are invited. There will be a catered meal, a presentation about our youth ministry, and we'll worship together! RSVP to Stephen.

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is going to be your best class this semester? Why?

Youth News

2007-08-30T16:24:00.000-04:00

Demolition Derby is Saturday, September 8. We'll meet at the church at 4:30 PM and return back around 11:30 PM. Cost is $17. Not sure? Let's see what Tom has to say: Picture this. School has just started...the tension is rising already. You've had a week for the stress level to mount. Your head is already being crammed with useless knowledge. Brain about to burst. UNLESS...you find some way to release all of that tension and unwind. What better way than a good, old-fashioned demolition derby? A uniquely American (REDNECK) sporting event that focuses on total destruction of more than 100 cars, vans, (and sometimes buses), all in an effort by the Silver Hill Lion's Club to raise scholarship money. Sign up deadline is Sunday!

Summit Lake Senior High Retreat is coming soon (September 21-23)! Sign up and pay your $20 deposit by Sunday, September 9.

Small Groups sign up has begun! Sign up Sunday! We will be having a Youth Leadership Council (YLC) small group this year - let Stephen know if you are interested.

Youth Choir begins on Sunday, September 9, at 5 PM, in the Music Suite. Contact Pat Close for more information.

Church Family Night (CFN) begins Wednesday, September 12. Dinner is served from 5:30-6:30 PM. Youth activities are from 6:30-7:30 PM.

Awakening Festival 07 is Saturday, September 15, at the Bull Run Park - Special Events Center in Centreville. Featured artists include Toby Mac, Barlow Girl, DecembeRadio, NeedToBreathe, This Beautiful Republic, Mainstay, Ashes Remain, and speaker Tom Davis. There will also be rock climbing walls, gladiator jousting, giant slide, volleyball, and much more! Cost is $15 in advance, $20 at the gate. The group rate is $13 for groups of 10+. Sign up Sunday if you are interested in going. This is a great event for the whole family!

Open House @ FaithStation is Sunday, September 16, from 6-8 PM, in Whitten Hall. Youth, parents, and youth workers are invited. There will be a catered meal, a presentation about our youth ministry, and we'll worship together! RSVP to Stephen.

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: How many games are the Redskins going to win this year?

Youth News

2007-08-24T11:48:00.000-04:00

Fantasy Football is back! Do you have what it takes to be crowned champion of the FaithStation Fanatics? If you think you do, let Stephen know and sign up your team before this Monday. On Monday, any remaining league spots will be offered to interested adults.

Summit Lake Senior High Retreat is coming soon (September 21-23)! Sign up and pay your $20 deposit by Sunday, September 9.

Small Groups sign up has begun! Sign up Sunday! We will be having a Youth Leadership Council (YLC) small group this year - let Stephen know if you are interested.

Threshold Meeting this Sunday at 4 PM in the FaithStation Room. Attend this meeting if you are interested in being a part of the worship band team.

Demolition Derby is Saturday, September 8. We'll meet at the church at 4:30 PM and return back around 11:30 PM. Cost is $17. Sign up Sunday! Not sure? Let's see what Tom has to say: "Picture this. School has just started...the tension is rising already. You've had a week for the stress level to mount. Your head is already being crammed with useless knowledge. Brain about to burst. UNLESS...you find some way to release all of that tension and unwind. What better way than a good, old-fashioned demolition derby? A uniquely American (REDNECK) sporting event that focuses on total destruction of more than 100 cars, vans, (and sometimes buses), all in an effort by the Silver Hill Lion's Club to raise scholarship money."

Youth Choir begins on Sunday, September 9, at 5 PM, in the Music Suite. Contact Pat Close for more information.

Church Family Night (CFN) begins Wednesday, September 12. Dinner is served from 5:30-6:30 PM. Youth activities are from 6:30-7:30 PM.

Open House @ FaithStation is Sunday, September 16, from 6-8 PM, in Whitten Hall. Youth, parents, and youth workers are invited. There will be a catered meal, a presentation about our youth ministry, and we'll worship together! RSVP to Stephen.

Make sure you wish all our college students good-bye if you haven't done so already! GOOD-BYE! HAVE FUN AT COLLEGE!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What are you looking forward to most this upcoming school year?

I Am Optimus Prime (well, at least 73%)

2007-08-17T14:14:00.000-04:00

I saw this over at a blog I read regularly and decided to give it a shot. What Transformer are you?

I AM
73%
OPTIMUS PRIME

Take the Transformers Quiz

IMPACT Video!

2007-08-16T21:02:00.000-04:00

Here it is - the long awaited IMPACT video! Also included is the IMPACT Staff Intro video. ENJOY!

Just For Fun!

2007-08-07T15:33:00.000-04:00

Here's the leadership team for the PlanetWisdom Tour taking a little time out to dance! As you watch this, imagine the Church Staff, your Sunday School teacher, and/or your Small Group leader doing this. Wouldn't that rock?!?

Car Wash!

2007-07-21T13:28:00.000-04:00

Raising money for missions and for Youth EnCounter!

Bringing in the customers!

Washing a car!

Another satisfied customer!?!

Goo Games 2007!

2007-07-20T18:17:00.000-04:00

Here are the pictures and a short video from this year's Goo Games. ENJOY!

Summer Snowball Fight!

Summer Youth Happenings

2007-07-20T17:52:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures from some of this summer's happenings: Brown Bag Bible Study, FaithStation, 7th Grade Welcoming Breakfast, Cookie Service Project, and the Outdoor Movie Night. ENJOY!

Youth News

2007-07-19T18:27:00.000-04:00

Goo Games & Picnic tomorrow at the church at 3 PM. Wear clothes you can get messy and bring a towel and change of clothes!

Car Wash Fundraiser Saturday at the church from 10 AM - 4 PM. Bring towels, hoses, scrubbers, brushes, etc. Lunch will be provided! Proceeds go toward Youth EnCounter and the Youth Missions fund!

Old Rag trip is next Wednesday, July 25! Sign up in the FaithStation room.

The next Brown Bag Bible Study will be Thursday, July 26.

Sign up for YEC (August 2-3) with Stephen as soon as possible - space is limited! YEC will cost $75 this year - a reduction in price from the last several years - yay! A $25 deposit is due at sign-up! YEC is ALL-NEW this year! Come be a part of something new, different, and exciting!

L1FE Retreat - August 9-12 in New Jersey. Cost is $30. Deadline to sign-up is Sunday, July 29. Space is limited!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What has been the best part about your summer so far?

VBS

2007-07-18T16:36:00.000-04:00

Here is the Youth performance of Forever at the VBS Family Night Program.

IMPACT VA! Eastville

2007-07-18T14:47:00.000-04:00

Enjoy these pictures and videos from this year's IMPACT! We had a great time in Eastville (Eastern Shore). We had 34 youth and 8 adults participate this year. The theme "Whatever" was excellent and the IMPACT staff did a great job of challenging us this year to live our lives for God in whatever we do! Enjoy!

Youth "Bowling" on our afternoon off!

Youth playing "Steal the Bacon" on our afternoon off!

Even at IMPACT there's time for "Log Tag"!

IMPACT testimonies during report-out in morning worship service.

IMPACT theme interpretation project explained.

If you have (good quality) pictures you would like to add to our yearbook, please email them to me. Thanks!

2007-06-23T22:57:00.000-04:00

ARE YOU READY?!?

NATS Game!

2007-06-23T22:34:00.000-04:00

We celebrated the end of school by attending the Nats game vs. the Detroit Tigers on Monday, June 18. The game was eerily reminiscent of the Spring Break game we attended - except the Nats' 9th inning comeback fell one run short this time!

Riding Metro to the game.

Some of the group waiting for the game to start.

Game action: notice the Detroit base runners - there were too many during the game!

The sad final score!

2007 Graduates!

2007-06-23T22:14:00.000-04:00

Graduate Recognition Sunday - June 10, 2007

Corey Donnelly - Lake Braddock Secondary School

Michael Gillespie - West Springfield High School

Cristina Goldchain - Stonewall Jackson High School

Ryan Moore - Lee High School

Haley Schmitz - Schmitz Institute of Higher Learning

Dustin Wood - W.T. Woodson High School

Caitlin Young - West Springfield High School

Mindy Zhang - Robinson Secondary School

GO SPURS GO!

2007-06-15T23:21:00.000-04:00

IMPACT VERSE/ COLOSSIANS

2007-06-14T07:28:00.000-04:00

This is just a friendly reminder to those going on Impact; remember to read the book of Colossians and memorize the verse (Colossians 3:17). Once you have done that, don't forget to e-mail me so that I can check your name off of the list. My school e-mail is lcgilbert@bluefield.edu. Hope you are having a WONDERFUL last week of school! God bless!

Anniversary Time!

2007-06-06T14:42:00.000-04:00

Randa and I celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary yesterday! Natalie, a former youth and current student at Georgetown College (KY), blessed us with free babysitting for the evening, allowing us to enjoy dinner, a movie, and dessert together! Thanks Natalie!

Natalie with Annie and Allison in the midst of playing some board games. The girls immediately took to playing with Natalie and could barely be bothered with hugs and kisses for Mommy and Daddy as we were leaving!

We ate at Mike's American Grill in Springfield. We had always heard it was a great restaurant, so we decided to give it a try! Randa enjoyed the Filet Mignon and I had the Baby Back Ribs. Our waiter said the ribs were his favorite and I can understand why - they were excellent! Outside we ran into Caitlin, a graduating senior who was celebrating with her grandparents. Caitlin took our picture outside the restaurant. Ainsley accompanied us on this anniversary dinner and was a big hit with everyone!

After dinner, Randa fed Ainsley and we dropped her back at the house and put her to bed so that we could enjoy a movie. We intended to see Waitress, but ended up seeing Gracie instead, due to a change in start times. The movie was good and we had the whole theater to ourselves!

After the movie we swung by the drive-thru at McDonald's and ordered some McFlurries to cap off the evening! All in all, it was a great and relaxing anniversary!

It's Friday - Laugh!!!

2007-06-01T15:37:00.000-04:00

I saw this on the news the other night. It is called "The Dancing Cadet" and it is hilarious!

Youth News

2007-05-31T15:20:00.000-04:00

Graduate Recognition Sunday is June 10. There will be a special breakfast for the graduates at the Abernathy's at 9:30 AM and the graduates will be recognized and will receive their gifts from the church in the worship service later that morning. Parents are invited to join their seniors for a special FaithStation that evening.

IMPACT Training this Sunday! We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM this Sunday and next Sunday, June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

Impact Commissioning Service will be Sunday, June 17. Please attend the service as the church commissions us to be Impact missionaries!

Nationals game on Monday, June 18! Celebrate the end of school by joining us to see a Nats game! Details will come soon!

Brown Bag Bible Study begins on Thursday, June 21, at 12:30 PM. Bring your lunch and Bible and come explore the Bible together! The first BBBS will meet at the Hodge's house. Contact Stephen or Leah for more information and for rides.

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What are you looking forward to most this summer?

Cappies Winners!

2007-05-30T15:13:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to South County for being the big winners at this year's Washington area Critics and Awards Program, otherwise known as the Cappies! South County won four awards (out of 12 nominations), including the award for best musical for Thoroughly Modern Millie. Westwood was represented well in the musical with Justin and Scott performing and Kit, Kayla, and Karianne working hard behind the scenes. Check out the Washington Post article spotlighting South County's big win! Other area schools (West Springfield, Lake Braddock, Robinson, and Thomas Jefferson) also won awards. Check out the Cappies website for the complete list of winners.

KMT's 'The Secret Garden'

2007-05-30T14:51:00.000-04:00

KMT's The Secret Garden was great! Congrats to Justin, Erin, Andrew, Pat Close, Donna Hill, and Pam Bryson for representing Westwood well!

Justin, Erin, and Andrew after Saturday's performance. Justin was Major Holmes, Erin was in the Ensemble, and Andrew was the Spot Light Operator.

Justin and Erin in costume!

Youth Family Cookout Pictures

2007-05-24T16:27:00.000-04:00

Pictures from this year's Youth Family Cookout. Thanks go out to Mike Colley for the pictures!

Mother's Day Challenge Contest Winners!

2007-05-24T15:59:00.000-04:00

Grand Prize Winners:

Haley with her mom walking into Caribou Coffee. The surprise didn't work here, but the manicure and pedicure later on was a pleasant surprise! Haley and Holly won gift cards to Starbucks and the Family Christian Store.

Consolation Prize Winners:Jessica with her mom at Outback Steakhouse for a Mother's Day lunch. They tried to see Spider-Man 3 that day, but had to wait until the following weekend! Jessica and Lisa won a Starbucks gift card.

Don't forget to celebrate your moms every day, not just on Mother's Day!

Youth News

2007-05-24T15:51:00.000-04:00

ATTENTION 2007 High School graduates! Help us recognize you on Graduate Recognition Sunday by emailing me your name, high school graduating from, college attending, proposed field of study, other plans if not college, etc. Also, parents should send pictures (from baby to senior portrait) of their graduating seniors to Marty Freeman. There will be a special breakfast for the graduates at the Abernathy's at 9:30 AM on Sunday, June 10, and the graduates will be recognized and will receive their gifts from the church in the worship service later that morning.

KMT Musical Theater presents The Secret Garden on Friday and Saturday, May 25-26. Performances are held at the John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Annandale at 8 PM. For tickets, contact Donna Hill at 703-628-1340. Support Westwood's own Justin Alderson, Erin Donnelly, Pat Close (Director), and Donna Hill (Producer).

IMPACT Training begins this Sunday! We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM on the following Sundays: May 27, June 3, and June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: Who is your hero? Why?

We Love Working With Youth!

2007-05-23T17:13:00.000-04:00

Leah, Jenny, and I spent Monday and Tuesday in Richmond at the VBMB Summer Youth Ministry Conference. We are pictured here with the main speaker, Laurie Polich. We learned a lot about youth ministry and we are excited about what will happen this summer in our youth ministry and in Jenny's case, with IMPACT! You can't read what my shirt says in the picture, but it says it all: "...there's nothing like youth ministry!" And I'll add: "...there's nothing like youth!" I'm ready for a great summer! How about you?

First-Ever David Crowder Band Music Video!

2007-05-18T13:09:00.000-04:00

From David Crowder's latest blog post: "suppose with me for a moment that this whole time the squirrel were simply a metaphor, what then?" Check out all the posts about squirrels on his blog. ENJOY!

Jeremy Foster Videos

2007-05-18T13:01:00.000-04:00

I used to post short humorous "videos with a message" from Jeremy Foster. Recently, Jeremy has been doing a full-length TV show instead and that is why I haven't been posting any of his stuff lately. If you're interested in checking out his TV show, go here.

Invisible Children Benefit Concert

2007-05-17T18:49:00.000-04:00

Check out this great opportunity to help support Invisible Children!

Youth News

2007-05-17T17:55:00.000-04:00

The Youth Family Cookout at the Gray's is this Sunday from 5:30-7:30 PM.

In accordance with Westwood’s Child Protection Policy we will hold a required annual training session for workers with youth, children, and preschoolers on Sunday, May 20, from 8:30-9:30 AM. If you are currently a volunteer or would like to work with the young people of Westwood, please plan on attending this training session. Training will be held in the main section of Whitten Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Lora Johnson. Youth who are currently age 18 or older or will be by VBS (July 13) need to attend this training as well!

We have two contests running - the Mother's Day Challenge Contest and the She's Back! Contest. The deadline to enter is this Sunday before the Cookout.

ATTENTION 2007 High School graduates! Help us recognize you on Graduate Recognition Sunday by emailing me your name, high school graduating from, college attending, proposed field of study, other plans if not college, etc. Also, parents should send pictures (from baby to senior portrait) of their graduating seniors to Marty Freeman. Thanks!

KMT Musical Theater presents The Secret Garden on Friday and Saturday, May 25-26. Performances are held at the John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Annandale at 8 PM. For tickets, contact Donna Hill at 703-628-1340. Support Westwood's own Justin Alderson, Erin Donnelly, Pat Close (Director), and Donna Hill (Producer).

We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM on the following Sundays: May 27, June 3, and June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

If you are on Facebook or are thinking of joining Facebook, join our This is FaithStation! group by clicking on the link found above.

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is your favorite hobby?

She's Back!

2007-05-16T15:52:00.000-04:00

Guess who decided to be our intern again this summer!?! Let's have some fun: The first person to track Leah down and take a picture with her and the front section of The Washington Post and email it to me wins a Starbucks gift card! GO!

Essay Contest

2007-05-15T17:31:00.000-04:00

The 2007 Religious Liberty Essay Contest, sponsored by the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, is open to all Baptist high school students in the classes of 2007 and 2008. The essay contest asks participants to respond to this quote by The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state. It must be the guide and critic of the state, and never its tool." The grand prize is $1000 and includes a trip to Washington, D.C.

For contest rules and a registration form, please visit www.BJConline.org/contest.

Essay deadline is May 21.

Youth Family Cookout

2007-05-11T14:40:00.000-04:00

Youth Family Cookout

Sunday, May 20

5:30-7:30 PM at the Gray's

All youth and their family members are invited!

FOOD, FELLOWSHIP, and GAMES!

Bring lawn chairs and/or blankets.

Youth News

2007-05-10T14:41:00.000-04:00

There will be NO FaithStation this Sunday. Instead, participate in the Mother's Day Challenge Contest.

If you are on Facebook or are thinking of joining Facebook, join our This is FaithStation! group.

Don't forget about South County Secondary School's rendition of Thoroughly Modern Millie this Friday and Saturday. All shows are $10 and start at 7:30 PM. Suggested arrival time for all shows is 7:00 PM. Please go out to see a great show and support Westwood's own Justin Alderson, Scott Morgan, Kit Alderson, and Kari Alderson!

ATTENTION 2007 High School graduates! Help us recognize you on Graduate Recognition Sunday by emailing me your name, high school graduating from, college attending, proposed field of study, other plans if not college, etc. Also, parents should send pictures (from baby to senior portrait) of their graduating seniors to Marty Freeman. Thanks!

In accordance with Westwood’s Child Protection Policy we will hold a required annual training session for workers with youth, children, and preschoolers on Sunday, May 20, from 8:30-9:30 AM. If you are currently a volunteer or would like to work with the young people of Westwood, please plan on attending this training session. Training will be held in the main section of Whitten Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Lora Johnson. Youth who are currently age 18 or older or will be by VBS (July 13) need to attend this training as well!

KMT Musical Theater presents the Secret Garden on Friday and Saturday, May 25-26. Performances are held at the John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Annandale at 8 PM. For tickets, contact Donna Hill at 703-628-1340. Support Westwood's own Justin Alderson, Erin Donnelly, Pat Close (Director), and Donna Hill (Producer).

We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM on the following Sundays: May 27, June 3, and June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What movie is a 'must-see' for you this summer?

Mother's Day Challenge Contest!

2007-05-09T11:39:00.000-04:00

Sunday is Mother's Day. We will not have FaithStation this Sunday. Instead, you are all invited to participate in the Mother's Day Challenge Contest! Here's what you do:

Spend quality time with your mom or mother figure (grandmother, aunt, etc.).
Take a picture of you and your mom during your quality time.
Email the picture to me with a description of what you did with/for your mom on her special day. This is your entry for the contest prize! Entries are due by May 20.
We will have the prize drawing at the Youth Family Cookout on May 20. The prize will consist of gifts for both the youth and for mom!

Attention Youth Workers/Volunteers!

2007-05-08T17:08:00.000-04:00

To All Youth Workers/Volunteers:

We are going to have a 'friendly' get together for ice cream on Thursday, May 10, at 7:30 PM, at Friendly's in Burke (5761 Burke Centre Pkwy). We'll fellowship together and talk about our upcoming Youth Family Cookout.

If you can't make it Thursday, but want to help out with the cookout, please let me know.

Thanks,
Stephen

Cinco de Mayo!

2007-05-05T21:11:00.000-04:00

Today is Cinco de Mayo! I hope you had a chance to celebrate! Visit here for Wikipedia's article on Cinco de Mayo. MEXonline.com has a good link also.

Out On A Limb!

2007-05-04T14:25:00.000-04:00

Can't you just hear these words next? "Wanna get away? Now you can. Fly Southwest Airlines. You are now free to move about the country."

This is the commecial that the Skit Guys submitted to the Southwest Airlines Commercial Contest and it is airing on TNT throughout the NBA playoffs.

Click here to check out more great videos by the Skit Guys.

Youth News

2007-05-03T17:39:00.000-04:00

If you are on Facebook or are thinking of joining Facebook, join our This is FaithStation! group by clicking on the link under "Cool Links For All."

Don't forget about South County Secondary School's rendition of Thoroughly Modern Millie this Friday and Saturday (and next Friday and Saturday). All shows are $10 and start at 7:30 PM. Suggested arrival time for all shows is 7:00 PM. Contact CeCe Alderson at Cynthia.Alderson@fcps.edu or 703-446-1608 for ticket information. Please go out to see a great show and support Westwood's own Justin Alderson, Scott Morgan, Kit Alderson, and Kari Alderson!

ATTENTION 2007 High School graduates! Help us recognize you on Graduate Recognition Sunday by emailing me your name, high school graduating from, college attending, proposed field of study, other plans if not college, etc. Also, parents should send pictures (from baby to senior portrait) of their graduating seniors to Marty Freeman. Thanks!

In accordance with Westwood’s Child Protection Policy we will hold required annual training sessions for workers with youth, children, and preschoolers during the month of May. If you are currently a volunteer or would like to work with the young people of Westwood, please plan on attending one of the following training sessions: 1)Sunday, May 6, from 9:45-10:45 AM or 2)Sunday, May 20, from 8:30-9:30 AM. Both sessions will be held in the main section of Whitten Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Lora Johnson. Youth who are currently age 18 or older or will be by VBS (July 13) need to attend this training as well!

We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM on the following Sundays: May 27, June 3, and June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is your favorite book? Why?

Squirrels!

2007-05-02T16:53:00.000-04:00

I found this over at David Crowder's blog. It is funny - and so true! Check it out:

Displace Me

2007-05-01T16:49:00.000-04:00

Pictures from Saturday's Displace Me - Washington, D.C. Thanks Haley for the pictures!

2007-04-30T10:56:00.000-04:00

Thoroughly Modern Millie

2007-04-27T12:10:00.000-04:00

Justin Alderson and Scott Morgan

will be performing in South County Secondary School's rendition of

"Thoroughly Modern Millie"

Show Dates & Times

Friday, 4 May, 7:30 pm
Saturday, 5 May, 7:30 pm*

Friday, 11 May, 7:30 pm
Saturday, 12 May, 7:30 pm

Suggested Arrival Time for All Shows: 7:00 pm

*SCSS's 'Cappies' Show

Ticket Prices:
$10 General Admission
$9 Senior Citizen

Pre-Sale Tickets are selling fast -- Order yours today to ensure seating!
Contact CeCe Alderson at Cynthia.Alderson@fcps.edu or 703-446-1608 to order your Pre-Sale Tickets

Please come out to see a great show and support Westwood's Own!

Crew Members include:
Kit Alderson

Make-Up

Kari Alderson

Light & Sound

THE BETTER HOUR Contest

2007-04-27T11:36:00.000-04:00

ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS:

THE BETTER HOUR Contest for High School Students

$10,000 First Prize; $50,000 in total prizes

Cash awards from the John Templeton Foundation

Contest run by The Wilberforce Project

Why? In commemoration of this 200th anniversary of the 1807 abolition of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. Inspired by the vision and character of leading activist, William Wilberforce, and his crusade to end slavery and transform culture.

What To Do: Craft a project that will make your world a better place. Enlist others to help, execute your plan, and document it online.

Project areas include: Modern day forms of slavery, poverty, political or legislative action, education, and/or health. The project should reflect the issues and concerns of the 69 societies founded or assisted by William Wilberforce (listed at www.thebetterhour.com).

Sponsored by: The Wilberforce Project, with cash prizes from the John Templeton Foundation. In addition to an overall first prize winner, there will be prizes for projects in the following categories, and possibly a runner up for 2nd and 3rd place prizes.

At www.thebetterhour.com/tbh/Video2/viewing2.htm watch the trailer for the documentary film, coming in fall 2007 to national television, The Better Hour: William Wilberforce, A man of character who changed the world.

Project Submission: Project presentations will be submitted entirely online and can take a wide variety of creative forms, but only one or the other - moving visual or print, not both. Moving visual, video, and PowerPoint or audio presentations will have strict 5-minute time limit. Written, print, or photographic presentations will have a 1000 word limit AND 5-page limit.

Prizes: A total of $50,000 in cash prize money, which includes the $10,000 first place prize, provided by the John Templeton Foundation.

Final Project Deadline: March 1, 2008. Awards presented in Congress in May, 2008.

Register NOW at www.thebetterhour.com/contest to get full downloadable guidelines and contest rules as soon as they are available. Students are encouraged to register as soon as possible in order to have time to plan and organize, but registration must be made by January 15, 2008 with a final project deadline of March 1, 2008.

The Wilberforce Project 122 W. 14th Street, PMB 331 Front Royal VA 22630

Youth News

2007-04-26T16:50:00.000-04:00

Check out the Westwood Youth Facebook group page: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2327509535

The 'Displace Me' Invisible Children Event takes place this Saturday, April 28, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Check it out online at http://www.invisiblechildren.com/displaceMe. You can sign up online, get information, and get the release form for minors if you are under age 18. Email me by Friday if you want to participate in this event! You may also contact Haley for more details.

Westwood will welcome two singing groups from Bluefield College, Praise Singers and Variations, during this Sunday's worship service. Leah Gilbert is part of both groups. Come and support Leah this Sunday as the Bluefield singing groups lead us in worship!

The Church Family Night Picnic is Wednesday, May 2, at 5:30 PM. If you need to make reservations, call the church office by Monday, May 30.

ATTENTION 2007 High School graduates! Help us recognize you on Graduate Recognition Sunday by emailing me your name, high school graduating from, college attending, proposed field of study, other plans if not college, etc. Thanks!

In accordance with Westwood’s Child Protection Policy we will hold required annual training sessions for workers with youth, children, and preschoolers during the month of May. If you are currently a volunteer or would like to work with the young people of Westwood, please plan on attending one of the following training sessions: 1)Sunday, May 6, from 9:45-10:45 AM or 2)Sunday, May 20, from 8:30-9:30 AM. Both sessions will be held in the main section of Whitten Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Lora Johnson. Youth who are currently age 18 or older or will be by VBS (July 13) need to attend this training as well!

Impact Virginia! forms and money are due this Sunday! We will hold mandatory Impact Training Sessions from 4:30-5:45 PM on the following Sundays: May 27, June 3, and June 10. This training will take place in the Green Room and is for all adults and students going to Impact! Contact Tom Kern for more information!

Please remember this Sunday's FaithStation challenge is to bring someone with you to FaithStation - either a guest or someone who has been absent for awhile!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is your favorite childhood memory? Why?

Stephen's Ordination

2007-04-25T13:18:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all who helped make my Ordination such a special time! Here's some pictures and video of the service - as you can see, it was truly a celebration not only for me, but for the church!

Stephen

Justin and Erin singing Seek and Ye Shall Find.

The Hardest Day Yet (The Viewpoint of a VT Student)

2007-04-24T17:24:00.000-04:00

From Bryce Carter's blog:

Everyone has coped a different way.

Tonight was an entirely different atmosphere. Solemn, quiet, mournful. Candles lit up the area as thousands of flowers are laid about. In front of Burruss on the Drillfield is a mountain of flowers and in front of the breathtaking pile a ring of 33 individual piles of flowers, notes, and other materials.

No, I did not mistype. Each death is remembered, including Cho’s. I am glad, for despite his actions he is a casualty of this mess as well. We all have dark times in our lives; it is unfortunate his consumed others’ as well.

Read the rest here.

As everyone moves on after the terrible tragedy at Virginia Tech, may we always remember to keep praying - for the families of those that lost their lives that day, for those that survived, and for those that have been affected in ways that we cannot imagine by what took place on April 16. May God comfort those who are mourning and may God help us all to understand that which cannot be understood.

FCPS Memorial Ceremony for Virginia Tech

2007-04-20T10:37:00.000-04:00

From the FCPS Office of Community Relations:

Fairfax County Public Schools will hold a memorial ceremony at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 20, at Robinson Secondary School. The ceremony is being held to support FCPS students, graduates, families, and friends who have been impacted by Monday's tragedy at Virginia Tech. The ceremony is open to everyone in the FCPS community as well as to the media. More information will be posted on the FCPS web site when it becomes available.

Youth News

2007-04-19T14:09:00.000-04:00

Westwood Baptist Church will join churches across the state at noon on Friday, April 20, to observe a time of prayer and reflection as requested by Governor Tim Kaine on behalf of the victims, their families, and the students and faculty members at Virginia Tech University. The service, led by ministers from Westwood Baptist Church and Rev. Larry Lee, Pastor of Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, is open to all who would come to share their grief and remember those whose lives have been forever changed by this tragedy.

There will be a candlelight vigil in memory of Leslie Sherman and all victims and survivors of the Virginia Tech shooting at West Springfield High School on Saturday, April 21, at 7:30 PM at the flag pole.

You are invited to Stephen's Ordination Service this Sunday, April 22, at 3 PM. All youth and their families are invited and encouraged to attend the service and the reception that follows. It would mean a lot to me if you are there! There will be NO Youth Dinner or FaithStation that night!

The 'Displace Me' Invisible Children Event takes place Saturday, April 28, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Check it out online at http://www.invisiblechildren.com/displaceMe. Email Stephen if you want to participate in this event!

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is your favorite TV show right now? Your all-time favorite TV show?

Time of Reflection and Prayer for Virginia Tech

2007-04-18T15:33:00.000-04:00

Westwood Baptist will have a time of reflection and prayer in light of the tragedy at Virginia Tech from 6:25-6:40 p.m. tonight (Wednesday) in the sanctuary. In addition, Kirkwood Presbyterian Church has invited our church family to join them for a service at 7:30 p.m. tonight. Anyone wanting to take part in the Kirkwood service is encouraged to slip out of their class at 7:20. Kirkwood is located at 8336 Carrleigh Parkway.

Pray For Virginia Tech!

2007-04-17T13:33:00.000-04:00

We rejoice that all of the Westwood Virginia Tech students are accounted for and okay. Please pray for the Virginia Tech community - especially the families of the victims, those injured, other students, faculty, and administrators.

Inspiration!

2007-04-15T15:40:00.000-04:00

The 111th Boston Marathon is Monday, April 16th. Some of you may be aware of the powerful story of Dick and Rick Hoyt, a father-son team that races together all over the world. Monday will be their 26th Boston Marathon together. This excerpt is from a Sports Illustrated article written in 2005 by Rick Reilly:

Eighty-five times he's pushed his disabled son, Rick, 26.2 miles in marathons. Eight times he's not only pushed him 26.2 miles in a wheelchair but also towed him 2.4 miles in a dinghy while swimming and pedaled him 112 miles in a seat on the handlebars -- all in the same day. Click here to read the rest of the article.

Check out these videos that tell the story of Team Hoyt:

The Story of Dick and Rick Hoyt as they compete in the Ironman Triathlon.

Music video of Team Hoyt (My Redeemer Lives).

Worship Is More Than A Song!

2007-04-13T16:45:00.000-04:00

As we prepare to lead worship on Sunday (Youth Sunday), let us remember that worship is more than a song! Here is a video with the lyrics to a powerful song, Clear The Stage, from worship leader Ross King:

Youth News

2007-04-12T14:37:00.000-04:00

Youth Sunday is this Sunday! Please plan to attend and invite your friends and family as well! Participants (readers, prayers, musicians, ushers, greeters, etc.) need to be in the Sanctuary at 9:30 AM to run through the service. If you want to help as a greeter or usher, please come - we still need several people to help out with these important jobs. The Youth Choir will rehearse at 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary.

Don't forget - we are giving away a prize this Sunday night at FaithStation! Make a comment on the Tuesday, March 27 post for your chance to win!

Stephen's Ordination is Sunday, April 22, at 3 PM. All youth are invited and encouraged to attend the service and the reception that follows. It would mean a lot to me if you are there! There will be NO Youth Dinner or FaithStation that night!

Displace Me, an Invisible Children event, takes place Saturday, April 28, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Look for more details soon! Check it out online at http://www.invisiblechildren.com/displaceMe.

Make sure you check out the calendar at the bottom of the blog to keep informed about upcoming events.

Random Question of the week: What is the Top 5 on your music playlist right now?

Draw Me Something!

2007-04-11T15:24:00.000-04:00

Feeling creative?
Check out Draw Me Something!

Comment with the title of your drawing so we can all check it out! You can check out my awesome 'wesawood house' in the latest drawings section.

71 Days Later...What's Up With This Blog Thing?

2007-04-10T15:46:00.000-04:00

Seventy-one days ago, back in January, I made the first post on this blog. That post was a recap of our Winter Retreat. And we've just kept going forward since then. Before we continue going forward, I figured I better say something about this blog and about myself. First, why this blog? In a nutshell, the reason this blog exists is for communication. My dream is that this blog will become the place to find information about our youth group and the place to join in community discussions using the comment feature. The blog is also a great way to share pictures and videos of us in action! Lastly, I hope that over time, you might get to know my heart a little bit better through this blog. I know I have been blessed to know some of your hearts better through your thoughtful comments.

Second, who is this "Youth Pastor" that makes all these posts? The simple answer is Stephen Gray, the Associate Pastor/Minister with Youth and Children at Westwood Baptist Church in Springfield, Virginia. In addition to being "Youth Pastor", I am a son, brother, husband, father, and friend. I really enjoy my job of working with you(th)! I love watching you grow - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually! I love to see your passion about God and His kingdom! I love to close my eyes and imagine what the future will be like and how you will impact the world! I love walking along with you as we journey together in relationship with Christ.

Third, why call the blog "This is FaithStation!"? FaithStation is our main thing - the one time we consistently meet together for food, fellowship, and worship that is uniquely ours. I think people get a sense of who we are when they visit us at FaithStation - how friendly, open, loving, goofy, and crazy we are! Sunday nights (dinner and FaithStation) show an authentic glimpse of who we are. I hope this blog does the same!

The Tomb Is Empty! He is Risen!

2007-04-08T12:29:00.000-04:00

The Empty Tomb by George C. Gray

First Presbyterian Church, Las Cruces, NM

Join Us On Resurrection Sunday!

2007-04-06T16:45:00.000-04:00

Russian Resurrection icon, celebrating & commemorating the Great Pascha (Easter) (16th cent.)

Join us Easter Sunday morning as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ! There will be a community-wide sunrise service held at Westwood at 6:30 AM. Join us for Sunday School at 9:45 AM and worship at 11 AM. There will be NO evening youth activities on Easter Sunday.

We Are Not Very Good At Bowling!

2007-04-06T15:50:00.000-04:00

We finished off our Spring Break activities with a little bowling this morning. Many people bowled well, but the best bowling competition came down to Mike and one of our guests, Jeff. Mike ended up prevailing with a 142-146 score over two games and the title of best bowler! (Needless to say, we are not very good bowlers as evidenced by the fact that none of the thirteen of us could break 150!) Our competition for worst bowler was more intense. There were three candidates: Scott, Katy, and Jessica. Alas, Scott bowled too well and clearly separated himself from Katy and Jessica. Only two pins separated the two, but in an overwhelming vote (more factors go into worst bowler than just score) Jessica was declared the winner! And, although Kentucky stole away Texas A&M's basketball coach, Stephen was able to hand Clayton two last-frame defeats! Congratulations to all!

Nats Win!

2007-04-05T16:48:00.000-04:00

We attended the Washington Nationals game against the Florida Marlins yesterday afternoon. The game turned out to be great, although it didn't start off that way. The Nats got behind early (again!) and by the middle of the sixth inning were down 6-1. They had not shown too much at the plate until the bottom of the sixth. With two outs, the Nats bats started to come alive. A couple of singles by Dmitri Young and Brian Schneider led to Ryan Church's three-run homer and the Nats were back in the game. Rally caps came out in the eighth and the Nats bats struck again in the bottom of the ninth - a double by Ronnie Belliard, a single by Robert Fick (scoring Belliard), a sacrifice by Felipe Lopez, a single by Kory Casto (scoring Fick), another single by Ryan Zimmerman, a walk by Austin Kearns, and a final single by Dmitri Young (scoring Casto) led to three runs and the 7-6 win - the first for the Nats this season and the first for Nats Manager Manny Acta! All in all, it was a great day at the ballpark!

Check out the pics below:

The gang outside RFK with President Teddy Roosevelt.

The view from our seats as the Nats take the field in the late innings.

Urging the Nats on to victory in the final innings - rally caps!

This is FaithStation! (Sunday, April 1)

2007-04-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

We concluded our study of The 24/7 Experience Sunday night. We observed the student travellers as their journey ended in Los Angeles. In L.A. they met with film producer Ralph Winter (X-Men movies). Ralph shared with them his passion for making movies that ask questions instead of give answers. He also shared how he lives as a Christ-follower in the Hollywood entertainment culture. Our challenge from this last part of the journey is two-fold: how do we interact with culture as followers of Jesus? How can we encourage each other as we each move along the journey of our relationship with Christ? The video ended with the group of students participating in a benediction, in which they were affirmed and commissioned. What would be a good benediction for our group that would be both an affirmation of how Jesus is at work in our lives and a commissioning of our group to be on mission for Jesus? Comment with your ideas and we will use the benediction that develops from your ideas at FaithStation.

Congratulations to John Frazier!

2007-04-03T11:06:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to John for winning our FaithStation Hoops Fanatics March Madness bracket contest! Reggie came in second and I (Stephen) finished third. Check out the "One Shining Moment" video for a recap of this year's tournament. Join us next year for your chance to have the ultimate in bragging rights!

Opening Day!

2007-04-02T12:15:00.000-04:00

Spring is "officially" here - GO NATS!

Greatest April Fool's Day Hoax Ever?

2007-04-01T20:20:00.000-04:00

"On April 1, 1957 the British news show, Panorama, broadcast a segment about a bumper spaghetti harvest in southern Switzerland. The success of the crop was attributed to an unusually mild winter. The audience heard Richard Dimbleby, the show's highly respected anchor, discussing the details of the spaghetti crop as they watched a rural Swiss family pulling pasta off spaghetti trees and placing it into baskets." Click here to read the rest of the article from Museum of Hoaxes.

This hoax is considered by many to be the greatest April Fool's Day hoax of all time because it was one of the first to use the medium of television. For the BBC article about this hoax and a link to the original video, click here. You can check out the YouTube video below (not as good quality as the BBC video).

For a list of the top 100 April Fool's hoaxes of all time, click here.

For more about April Fool's Day, check out this article at Snopes.com.

The Swiss Spaghetti Harvest (1957)