The Transformational Journey: From Conception to the Crown The Christian Journey The Christian journey is an ongoing process — a pilgrimage that has always been part of the walk of faith, from Abraham to Jacob, from Isaac to Moses. God has continually moved His people on a pilgrimage toward the Promised Land. Through it all, God was shaping a people for Himself. Every step along the way held the potential to be an instrument of transformation. Each trial was an opportunity for growth, and every enemy threat became an occasion to grow stronger in the Lord. Walking with Christ We are invited to journey through life with Jesus Christ and to be continuously changed by the power of His presence. Being a Christian is immeasurably more than right belief, acceptable behavior, or effective service. It is saying “yes” to daily fellowship and empowerment with the Lord. We are destined for the bridal chamber, and every day presents an opportunity to encounter the One who loves us like no other. The Goal The goal is to become Christ-possessed — fully surrendered, transformed, and empowered by His Spirit. Pastor Doug PRAYER CONCERNS Jody Shumway, Gloria, Sue Feller, Becky Aquilo and Steve Keiger. Please pray for protection over our children and grandchildren. Please pray for the homeless and for those battling depression, anxiety, stress, mental illness and addictions. Pray for our Nation and our US Military Men and Women. Pray for Pastor Beggs & Family and for our Church Family. ALL SAINTS DAY We will be celebrating the lives of Tom Feller, Bob Haines, Karl Kuntze and Dale Lepley. Sunday, November 1, 2026 FINANCIAL UPDATE There are a couple of things about churches •They offer opportunities to invest your time •They offer opportunities to invest your money Many of us would rather give money when time is scarce, but the people of Aldersgate always seem to rise to the occasion when there is work to be done (and a leader will come forth) Money is another thing, in both quantity and the timing of the gift. As small as our congregation has become, we have always seemed to meet our capital needs and operating expenses. Both are important and necessary. During my tenure here, giving tends to be easier for our capital projects than for our operating expenses. While I was the church Treasurer, I used to say that our people have the funds to take on most any project. The problem is, that those funds are usually in our pockets. Here is the good news. Look at the projects that are currently underway and fully funded: 1.The refurbishment of the fellowship hall and downstairs floorcoverings. 2.The resurfacing of the driveways and parking areas. It is so encouraging to the trustees to move forward on needed work, when the money to do so is readily available. Weekly giving to the general fund can be another story, especially during the summer months. The church operating costs are very regular in terms of payroll, utilities and maintenance. The summer lull in giving is noticeable, but not horrible. Our expenses go on even when we are going “off”. Year to date our operating expenses are running about $4,000 ahead of our general fund giving. While that is less than 3% of our budget, it will keep us financially stronger, if we can hit our budget by the year’s end. Are you able to help in this last half? Often December generosity translates into a balanced budget, but when it doesn’t a depletion of our reserves makes up the difference. What part of our revenue shortfall can you play in the few months ahead? Bob Graham Finance Chair Upcoming Movie Night Friday Evening – September 25 7:30 p.m. “God’s Not Dead” Bring your own chair for a night under the stars Drinks and Snacks will be provided In case of rain – we will be inside SERVING IN THE MILITARY Stateside - Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Drago Overseas – Army Colonel Robert Greiner CHECK OUT ALL THESE ITEMS TO KEEP IN MIND! Please continue to bring in non-perishable food items for our Blessing Box at Aldersgate. Items that are the most popular are the individual packets of Breakfast Cereal, Crackers or Protein Bars, Macaroni & Cheese, Ramen Noodles. Also containers (with pull tab lids) such as Soups, Stew or Meats, etc. As always thank you for your continued support. Clothed in Righteousness has an ongoing need for the following food items: Canned Meat and Soups with pull-top lids, Mac-N-Cheese, Ramen Noodle Bowls, Protein Bars, Apple Sauce (individual serving containers work the best). The Basket for these items is on the table downstairs close to the stairway. The SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER issue of the Upper Room Devotionals, both large and small print, are now available on the table in the Narthex. When you are here at the church, please remember to take one for yourself and/or a copy to share with someone who would enjoy receiving it. Any new or changed addresses, phone numbers (cell or landline) or E-mail addresses that you would like to share with the church office are always welcomed, as it keeps the lines of communication open with your church family. Thank you. Also, be sure to check the Upcoming Events on the back page of the Newsletter and mark your calendars accordingly. Mark your calendars to attend this Fun Event. Sunday, October 25 from 3p.m. – 5p.m. games and inflatables Cider, Donuts and Treats!!! Bible study will resume on Monday, September 14. All are welcome, please consider attending. MISSION FOCUS During the month of September we will continue to support Marlington Schools by collecting clothing. Pants and leggings, underwear and socks for boys and girls, sizes 5T up to 14. Also needed are Clorox wipes and tissues. Additional information for the month of October will be forthcoming. Thank you, Your Mission Team September/October 7 – Shirley Tournoux 24 – Debra Graham 26 – David Bossert 27 – James Carroll 28 – Dave McAlister 17 – Tom & Tara Wright 8 – Sue Feller 10 – Joseph Battershell 16 – Ron Devies 18 – Richard Battershell 18 – Jenna McNeil 22 – Claire McAlister 29 – Rob Graham 4 – Curtis & Diana Dunn 10 – Ron & Barbara Devies Please let the church office know when there are updates to be made to this listing. We like to keep it as accurate as possible. Thank you.