COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP REPORT TO CONGREGATION

It’s been a long cold winter for everyone (our heating bills are evidence) but the signs of spring are everywhere. The month of March brings the start of Lenten season and Community hosted the first of six Lenten luncheons on March 12. Many thanks to all those who helped. First United Methodist hosted the second one. Other churches participating include First Christian and St. Paul Church of Christ. First Baptist will host a second soup and sandwich luncheon on April 9.
This all leads up to Holy Week. Maundy Thursday services will be here at First Baptist this year and will be open to the public. Community leaders are planning Easter morning breakfast, same as last year. Yes, we’ll have eggs!
Looking ahead, we are planning to do a new family photo directory. Paula has started distributing signup sheets. Signups will begin in earnest in April. Photos will be taken in the month of May by Paula Cox. Hopefully, we can get this directory compiled and printed for distribution this summer. Our last photo directory was published in 2018.
Community leadership is also planning to restart home communion for those who request it. By the way, you might have noticed a small change in communion. We now use a real loaf of bread at the altar.
Your Community leadership team: Tim Willis, Jean Back, Bob Allen, Jeannine Taylor and Jo Johnston.
More from Joanne and Chris ……
Q: What’s your favorite way to unwind after a hectic day?
Joanna- Cuddling on the couch with my Hubby and our 2 dogs, Charlie and Poppy.
Q: If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be and why?
Chris- Scotland or Ireland
Q: Who do you look up to, and why?
Joanna- My faith was shaped by all of you at FBC!! From JoAnn Borland and Judy Beasley as a child, Rev. Marty Carney as a teenager through Pastor Scotty now! I look up to you, First Baptist. You are my church home and family!
Chris- I look up to my Great Grandfather Carpenter for his kindness and his work ethic and ability to take things apart and fix them.

Who will be the next FBC Member in the spotlight?
Have a suggestion, let me know.
People @ First

Kay Fugate had a fall and broke some ribs.
Sue Ann Hale had a fall and broke her arm.
John Daly also broke his arm.
Please pray for complete healing for Kay, Sue Ann and John.
Long time member Nancy Reams passed away over the weekend. Please keep her family in prayer as they navigate this difficult time.
Please remember the Casey Family on the tragic passing of Taeler.
Also, heartfelt condolences go out to Esther Arnold and family on the passing of her sister.
As always, please keep Jackson Redding in prayer.
Dick and Reba Casey
4560 Weybridge St.
Sarasota, FL 34235
Upcoming events
The next Men's Breakfast on will be Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 8:30 am at Garver’s in Monroe.
May 1 Troy Deuth
May 2 Charles Scheibert Sr.
May 2 Chuck Scheibert
May 5 Lucy Griffith
May 5 Nicholas Janney
May 12 Esther Arnold
May 14 Cami Scheibert
May 15 Chris Boggs
May 19 Doug Rose
May 21 Declan Daly
May 26 Joanna Stitt
May 27 Bill Rogers
May 27 Leanne Taylor
May 31 Renee Beasley
Doug & Teri Boggs
May 10 – 45 years
Tim & Ruth Willis
May 22 – 54 years
Charles & Stephanie Nicely
May 24 – 34 years
Lost and found:
We now have two pairs of glasses that have been turned into the office.
Thanks to everyone who sent prayers, cards and well wishes! I’m doing good and recovering well. Love, Kelsie











