SERVICES THIS MONTH

HANG OUT AT THE CARDWELLS’

Keith and Lisa open their back yard to the church family on Sept. 9. Come anytime between 2 and 5 for games, swimming, and hanging out with Swift folks. This is for all ages. Bring a lawn chair and a snack to share. Ice cream and ice will be available. If you want to swim, please bring a towel.

Keith and Lisa live at 900 N. Holly Blvd., Foley.
  

FREE PRAYER, FOLEY

Of course, prayer is free. But sometimes people need an invitation to pray, or someone offering to pray with and for them.

Beginning in September, Pastor Keith will hang out at a local gathering spot offering “free prayer.” Days, times and locations will vary. There will be notification on the “Free Prayer, Foley” Facebook page that will be shared on the church page and Pastor Keith’s personal page.

While anyone is welcome to come for prayer, this is intended for people who might be uncertain or uncomfortable asking for prayer. Sometimes, without a church or religious connection, people don’t know who to ask to pray for them.

Pastor Keith will be in public places with a sign offering “Free Prayer.” He will be there for an hour, more if there’s significant interest on any particular day. He will listen to people’s concerns, pray with them and make available, if they desire, basic information about Swift Church.

How can you be part of this ministry? You can share the weekly location and time. You can pray for Pastor Keith as he meets and prays with others. You can provide location possibilities to Pastor Keith.
  

WORSHIP REPORT
 Greg McNair and Kim Whitchard, elders 

As this is being written, August is winding down and September is almost here. And it’s a bittersweet time — a time when summer is nearly over and new doors of opportunity open up with a new school year. It’s also time for the pace to pick up at our church after Sunday school classes, our choirs and many other church activities have taken a seasonal break.

On Sept. 2, we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at both services. All are welcome at the table to partake of the bread and juice by intinction. Also on that day, there will be a blessing for our labors, whatever they may be. Pastor Jody Beth, Phil Melton and Jane Capsis will lead worship at Live Oak at 1 p.m.

Sept. 9 is a big day — that’s when Sunday school, children’s church and fellowship time will return. The choirs are resuming a busier schedule. A new Bible study on the book of Genesis will start in October on Sunday evenings and Thursday mornings.

Your help is needed in various areas around the church, too. The worship committee is looking for people to serve (starting in October) as acolytes, greeters and nursery helpers in a rotation once about every five weeks. Please see Kim or Greg, your worship elders, if God is leading you to help. We appreciate all who help in any way.

We hope September will bring more of our church family back into the pews on Sunday mornings. It’s not quite the same when you are not with us. We hope your summer has been a happy one with wonderful memories.

Aug. 12 was a special day at Swift Presbyterian Church — backpack blessing and teacher dedication. The worship committee made tags with Bible verses to attach to book bags for our students and teachers. These were presented to them at the blessing of the backpacks and teacher dedication on Aug. 12, three days before the start of the school year in Baldwin County. The tags are a reminder that God is always with them and that their church loves and supports them, too.

Before long the worship committee will meet to start making plans for the season of Advent, Christmas and New Year’s.
  

MUSIC NOTES
 Lisa Cardwell, music director 

The chancel choir will move to its Tuesday night rehearsals on Sept. 11. Rehearsals will begin at 5:45. Throughout the year they will be working on new anthems purchased at the Montreat worship and music conference this summer. The adult handbell choir has started up again for the year. They will play for the 10:00 service on Sept. 23. They also are working on music to play for the Live Oak service on Oct. 7.

Our chime choir (the Joyful Tones) played for the Live Oak residents on Aug. 5. The chimes accompanied the residents as they sang several hymns. This was the first time most of the residents present had heard chimes, and they expressed gratitude to the choir for coming and sharing their time and talents with them. In serving others, we often receive blessings ourselves.

Coming up: On Nov. 4, our chime choir will play for the 8:00 service and the handbell choir will play for the 10:00 service to celebrate Stewardship Sunday. Also, since this is also All Saints’ Day, we will be continuing our tradition of recognizing those saints who have died since last All Saints’ Day. A bell will be rung after each saint’s name is read.

Our Christmas program is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 16, during the 10:00 service. I’m also looking for people who are interested in playing in a beginner handbell group for this service. This group can be comprised of children (second grade) up to senior citizens. Contact me if you or your child is interested. We will rehearse starting six weeks prior to this date.

So you see, there are opportunities in chiming, ringing, and singing all to the glory of God. We hope to have a year of Spirit- and joy-filled worship services.
  

SANCTUARY FLOWER SCHEDULING
Susie Alexander schedules our Sunday flower donations. Please call her to reserve your date.
You can reach Susie at 251-943-4145 or thfairynfoley@gmail.com.
Dates available: Sept. 23 and 30; all of October
  

QUILT RACK NEEDED
If anyone has a quilt rack to loan the craft group, we need one to place in the fellowship hall for September.
Please contact Lee Mansell at 251-232-4775.
Thank you.

‘TWO OR MORE’ FELLOWSHIP LUNCH
Thursday, Sept. 6 • 11:30 a.m.
Gulf Bowl, Captain’s Choice Grill — Juniper Street, Foley
Couples, singles, men, women, first-timers, old-timers — everyone is invited and welcome.
Delicious food, reasonable prices and great conversation. Come and meet new friends.
 

BUTTERFLY GIRLS • GUYS’ NIGHT OUT
Thursday, Sept. 20 • 6:30 p.m.
Cactus Cantina — 3849 Gulf Shores Parkway, Suite 1, Gulf Shores

Please call or text Mary at 251-295-5267 by 4 p.m. that day if you know you’re coming so adequate table space can be reserved. (A few extra chairs will be reserved for any last-minute deciders.) Our group is growing ever since the girls and guys meet at the same place, although we sit and visit together separately.

Come join us this month. Couples or singles are welcome.

Join us and suggest new places for us to try.
  

STEWARDSHIP TAILGATE PARTY
Sunday, Nov. 4, after 10:00 worship

Mark your calendars for a church-wide stewardship tailgate party on Sunday, Nov. 4, after the 10 a.m. worship service. Wear your team colors to worship, and then plan to head to the fellowship hall for some good ol’ food and fellowship. Pork barbecue and rolls will be provided.

It’s only September, but November’s just around the corner. Start checking your recipes now for what sides you might like to bring along — cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans or a family favorite, and of course … desserts. We are suggesting that people with last names beginning with A–O bring a side, and P–Z bring a dessert. But as always, anything you are able to provide will be greatly appreciated. For questions on the fellowship event, contact Pastor Jody Beth, 251-213-6625.

YOUTH REPORT
 Tara Morrow, elder 

■ Wednesday, Sept. 5 — Refuel will meet at the Akinses’.

■ Sunday, Sept. 9 — Youth Sunday school begins at 9 a.m.
        Parent meeting for Montreat information — after 10:00 worship

■ Saturday, Sept. 15 — Youth missions — Hailey Vanbrimmer

■ Sunday, Sept. 30 — GɸG, 4 to 6 p.m.
  

SNACKS WITH SUSAN AND DARYL
 Susan and Daryl Pichoff, leaders 

After taking a break, the class will be starting up again on Sunday, Sept. 9. We will begin the year with Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi by Amy-Jill Levine. This is a six-week look at some familiar stories in a not-so-familiar way. This time we are going to have a book that goes along with the video series ($10; if cost is an issue, we can work it out) and I’ll try to get those out as soon as they are received. If you were thinking about joining a class, this is a great place to start. If I can answer any questions, please let me know and I hope you’ll join us. Contact Susan at tabfanatic@gmail.com or 251-233-9486 (phone or text).
  

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
 Anthony Kaiser and Cheryl Jensen, teachers 

The class is studying 90 weeks through the New Testament in Chronological Order with powerful insights and personal application. The study is by Ron Rhodes. We are halfway though our book and will soon be studying the book of Acts — a perfect time for you to join us. Each week there is a lot to learn. Come and be a part of “growing in Christ” as we study His word. We meet at 9:00 on Sunday mornings in the room 2 in the annex and always have an extra chair set for you.
  

BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP GROUPS
FOR ADULTS AT SWIFT CHURCH

We are blessed to have so many people who would like to be part of Bible study and fellowship at Swift Church. Here is a listing of the groups currently meeting. All of them are open to people visiting and/or joining the group, whether you are a member of Swift Church or not. For more information, contact the leaders or the church office.

Weekly:

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., adult Sunday school class, room 2 in the annex, a chronological study of the New Testament, led by Cheryl Jensen and Anthony Kaiser.

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., Snacks with Susan and Daryl, fellowship hall, led by Daryl and Susan Pichoff; topic varies. The class will resume Sept. 9 with new informative topics.

• Sunday evening and Thursday morning Bible study groups met once each month for the summer, studying Faith, Hope and Love. The book of Genesis will be the next weekly study, starting in October. Interested students are encouraged to begin reading through Genesis during the month of September. Contacts are Pastor Jody Beth and Philip Melton, 251-213-6625.

Monthly:

• Thursdays (first Thursday of month), 11:30 a.m., “Two or More” fellowship lunch at Captain’s Choice Grill at the Gulf Bowl in Foley on Juniper Street. Contact is Lee Mansell.

• Thursdays (third Thursday of month), 6:30 p.m., Butterfly Girls and Guys’ Night Out fellowship dinner at area restaurants, different place each month. Sometimes men and women eat at same restaurant at separate tables, sometimes two restaurants near one another. Contacts are Mary McNair and Susan Pichoff.

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

The Swift Church session met on Monday night, Aug. 20.

✔ We spent some time talking about Pastor Keith’s 2019 sabbatical. (For those who don’t know, the church offers a three-month time of study, rest and renewal for the pastor every seven years. Next year will be seven years since the last sabbatical.)

✔ Pastor Keith talked about an idea to sit once a week at gathering places around town — coffee shops, hospital, etc. — to be available for anyone who desires prayer.

✔ We received report of communion served at Live Oak on Aug. 5.

✔ Received and approved reports from committees of session as well as minutes of previous meeting.

✔ We discussed the delay in the driveway paving: 1.) companies too busy to bid; 2.) bids coming in too high; 3.) bidders not showing up for scheduled appointments. Charlie continues to head this up, searching for solutions with help from Daryl Pichoff from the finance committee.

✔ The church is getting a new phone system. It should be installed in the next few weeks.

✔ We addressed ways to get the fellowship hall cooler. One thing leads to another. A solution is to install two units — one for the fellowship hall and another for the kitchen/restroom area. Concern is there’s little to no insulation and the windows are drafty. Cost of windows, insulation and HVAC units is in the $15,000 guesstimate.

✔ The meeting closed with prayer.
  

MISSION REPORT
 Cathy Rogers and Al Sprouse, elders 

Thank you to all the members of the congregation who generously donated school supplies to Sarah Kleinschmidt’s Elberta School mission. We sent the remaining school donations to Robertsdale Elementary, where Tosha Thomas teaches kindergarten.

The food pantry has been serving an average of 20 families on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Tina Sprouse is requesting volunteers to assist with grocery shopping, picking up food at Catholic Charities and passing out food on the distribution days. Donations of food are appreciated. Food donations that are especially needed are breakfast cereals, peanut butter and jelly, hearty soups, canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas and sauces, canned meats, and powdered milk. Tina can be reached at 251-510-5444.

During September, the Santa Foundation will again be our focus for financial support. The mission committee has set a goal of $1,000 for this mission that supplies toys and clothes to local needy children. Thank you for your consideration in donating to this worthy cause.

We will be concentrating on donations to our food pantry for Thanksgiving food baskets in October and November. In December, we shall focus our efforts to the Presbyterian Home for Children in Talladega.

Jim Runtz and Chuck Carneal deserve our recognition and support for their continued work of clothes collections for the Presbyterian Home. Congregational members can bring items to the church, and they will be held in Pastor Jody Beth’s office for transport to the home whenever Jim or Chuck are going there. There is a menu of items needed by the home in the back of the church for review. Check with Chuck or Jim for when that happens. Thanks to all who find it in their hearts to contribute to our missions.
  

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
 Charlie Hastings, elder 

If you are interested in joining the church driveway committee, please contact Charlie Hastings or Chuck Carneal. We are looking for anyone who is interested in helping coordinate and plan activities involving the widening of the entrance from Swift Church Road.

SERVICES THIS MONTH

HANG OUT AT THE CARDWELLS’

Keith and Lisa open their back yard to the church family on Sept. 9. Come anytime between 2 and 5 for games, swimming, and hanging out with Swift folks. This is for all ages. Bring a lawn chair and a snack to share. Ice cream and ice will be available. If you want to swim, please bring a towel.

Keith and Lisa live at 900 N. Holly Blvd., Foley.
  

FREE PRAYER, FOLEY

Of course, prayer is free. But sometimes people need an invitation to pray, or someone offering to pray with and for them.

Beginning in September, Pastor Keith will hang out at a local gathering spot offering “free prayer.” Days, times and locations will vary. There will be notification on the “Free Prayer, Foley” Facebook page that will be shared on the church page and Pastor Keith’s personal page.

While anyone is welcome to come for prayer, this is intended for people who might be uncertain or uncomfortable asking for prayer. Sometimes, without a church or religious connection, people don’t know who to ask to pray for them.

Pastor Keith will be in public places with a sign offering “Free Prayer.” He will be there for an hour, more if there’s significant interest on any particular day. He will listen to people’s concerns, pray with them and make available, if they desire, basic information about Swift Church.

How can you be part of this ministry? You can share the weekly location and time. You can pray for Pastor Keith as he meets and prays with others. You can provide location possibilities to Pastor Keith.
  

WORSHIP REPORT
 Greg McNair and Kim Whitchard, elders 

As this is being written, August is winding down and September is almost here. And it’s a bittersweet time — a time when summer is nearly over and new doors of opportunity open up with a new school year. It’s also time for the pace to pick up at our church after Sunday school classes, our choirs and many other church activities have taken a seasonal break.

On Sept. 2, we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at both services. All are welcome at the table to partake of the bread and juice by intinction. Also on that day, there will be a blessing for our labors, whatever they may be. Pastor Jody Beth, Phil Melton and Jane Capsis will lead worship at Live Oak at 1 p.m.

Sept. 9 is a big day — that’s when Sunday school, children’s church and fellowship time will return. The choirs are resuming a busier schedule. A new Bible study on the book of Genesis will start in October on Sunday evenings and Thursday mornings.

Your help is needed in various areas around the church, too. The worship committee is looking for people to serve (starting in October) as acolytes, greeters and nursery helpers in a rotation once about every five weeks. Please see Kim or Greg, your worship elders, if God is leading you to help. We appreciate all who help in any way.

We hope September will bring more of our church family back into the pews on Sunday mornings. It’s not quite the same when you are not with us. We hope your summer has been a happy one with wonderful memories.

Aug. 12 was a special day at Swift Presbyterian Church — backpack blessing and teacher dedication. The worship committee made tags with Bible verses to attach to book bags for our students and teachers. These were presented to them at the blessing of the backpacks and teacher dedication on Aug. 12, three days before the start of the school year in Baldwin County. The tags are a reminder that God is always with them and that their church loves and supports them, too.

Before long the worship committee will meet to start making plans for the season of Advent, Christmas and New Year’s.
  

MUSIC NOTES
 Lisa Cardwell, music director 

The chancel choir will move to its Tuesday night rehearsals on Sept. 11. Rehearsals will begin at 5:45. Throughout the year they will be working on new anthems purchased at the Montreat worship and music conference this summer. The adult handbell choir has started up again for the year. They will play for the 10:00 service on Sept. 23. They also are working on music to play for the Live Oak service on Oct. 7.

Our chime choir (the Joyful Tones) played for the Live Oak residents on Aug. 5. The chimes accompanied the residents as they sang several hymns. This was the first time most of the residents present had heard chimes, and they expressed gratitude to the choir for coming and sharing their time and talents with them. In serving others, we often receive blessings ourselves.

Coming up: On Nov. 4, our chime choir will play for the 8:00 service and the handbell choir will play for the 10:00 service to celebrate Stewardship Sunday. Also, since this is also All Saints’ Day, we will be continuing our tradition of recognizing those saints who have died since last All Saints’ Day. A bell will be rung after each saint’s name is read.

Our Christmas program is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 16, during the 10:00 service. I’m also looking for people who are interested in playing in a beginner handbell group for this service. This group can be comprised of children (second grade) up to senior citizens. Contact me if you or your child is interested. We will rehearse starting six weeks prior to this date.

So you see, there are opportunities in chiming, ringing, and singing all to the glory of God. We hope to have a year of Spirit- and joy-filled worship services.
  

SANCTUARY FLOWER SCHEDULING
Susie Alexander schedules our Sunday flower donations. Please call her to reserve your date.
You can reach Susie at 251-943-4145 or thfairynfoley@gmail.com.
Dates available: Sept. 23 and 30; all of October
  

QUILT RACK NEEDED
If anyone has a quilt rack to loan the craft group, we need one to place in the fellowship hall for September.
Please contact Lee Mansell at 251-232-4775.
Thank you.

‘TWO OR MORE’ FELLOWSHIP LUNCH
Thursday, Sept. 6 • 11:30 a.m.
Gulf Bowl, Captain’s Choice Grill — Juniper Street, Foley
Couples, singles, men, women, first-timers, old-timers — everyone is invited and welcome.
Delicious food, reasonable prices and great conversation. Come and meet new friends.
 

BUTTERFLY GIRLS • GUYS’ NIGHT OUT
Thursday, Sept. 20 • 6:30 p.m.
Cactus Cantina — 3849 Gulf Shores Parkway, Suite 1, Gulf Shores

Please call or text Mary at 251-295-5267 by 4 p.m. that day if you know you’re coming so adequate table space can be reserved. (A few extra chairs will be reserved for any last-minute deciders.) Our group is growing ever since the girls and guys meet at the same place, although we sit and visit together separately.

Come join us this month. Couples or singles are welcome.

Join us and suggest new places for us to try.
  

STEWARDSHIP TAILGATE PARTY
Sunday, Nov. 4, after 10:00 worship

Mark your calendars for a church-wide stewardship tailgate party on Sunday, Nov. 4, after the 10 a.m. worship service. Wear your team colors to worship, and then plan to head to the fellowship hall for some good ol’ food and fellowship. Pork barbecue and rolls will be provided.

It’s only September, but November’s just around the corner. Start checking your recipes now for what sides you might like to bring along — cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans or a family favorite, and of course … desserts. We are suggesting that people with last names beginning with A–O bring a side, and P–Z bring a dessert. But as always, anything you are able to provide will be greatly appreciated. For questions on the fellowship event, contact Pastor Jody Beth, 251-213-6625.

YOUTH REPORT
 Tara Morrow, elder 

■ Wednesday, Sept. 5 — Refuel will meet at the Akinses’.

■ Sunday, Sept. 9 — Youth Sunday school begins at 9 a.m.
        Parent meeting for Montreat information — after 10:00 worship

■ Saturday, Sept. 15 — Youth missions — Hailey Vanbrimmer

■ Sunday, Sept. 30 — GɸG, 4 to 6 p.m.
  

SNACKS WITH SUSAN AND DARYL
 Susan and Daryl Pichoff, leaders 

After taking a break, the class will be starting up again on Sunday, Sept. 9. We will begin the year with Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi by Amy-Jill Levine. This is a six-week look at some familiar stories in a not-so-familiar way. This time we are going to have a book that goes along with the video series ($10; if cost is an issue, we can work it out) and I’ll try to get those out as soon as they are received. If you were thinking about joining a class, this is a great place to start. If I can answer any questions, please let me know and I hope you’ll join us. Contact Susan at tabfanatic@gmail.com or 251-233-9486 (phone or text).
  

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
 Anthony Kaiser and Cheryl Jensen, teachers 

The class is studying 90 weeks through the New Testament in Chronological Order with powerful insights and personal application. The study is by Ron Rhodes. We are halfway though our book and will soon be studying the book of Acts — a perfect time for you to join us. Each week there is a lot to learn. Come and be a part of “growing in Christ” as we study His word. We meet at 9:00 on Sunday mornings in the room 2 in the annex and always have an extra chair set for you.
  

BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP GROUPS
FOR ADULTS AT SWIFT CHURCH

We are blessed to have so many people who would like to be part of Bible study and fellowship at Swift Church. Here is a listing of the groups currently meeting. All of them are open to people visiting and/or joining the group, whether you are a member of Swift Church or not. For more information, contact the leaders or the church office.

Weekly:

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., adult Sunday school class, room 2 in the annex, a chronological study of the New Testament, led by Cheryl Jensen and Anthony Kaiser.

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., Snacks with Susan and Daryl, fellowship hall, led by Daryl and Susan Pichoff; topic varies. The class will resume Sept. 9 with new informative topics.

• Sunday evening and Thursday morning Bible study groups met once each month for the summer, studying Faith, Hope and Love. The book of Genesis will be the next weekly study, starting in October. Interested students are encouraged to begin reading through Genesis during the month of September. Contacts are Pastor Jody Beth and Philip Melton, 251-213-6625.

Monthly:

• Thursdays (first Thursday of month), 11:30 a.m., “Two or More” fellowship lunch at Captain’s Choice Grill at the Gulf Bowl in Foley on Juniper Street. Contact is Lee Mansell.

• Thursdays (third Thursday of month), 6:30 p.m., Butterfly Girls and Guys’ Night Out fellowship dinner at area restaurants, different place each month. Sometimes men and women eat at same restaurant at separate tables, sometimes two restaurants near one another. Contacts are Mary McNair and Susan Pichoff.

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

The Swift Church session met on Monday night, Aug. 20.

✔ We spent some time talking about Pastor Keith’s 2019 sabbatical. (For those who don’t know, the church offers a three-month time of study, rest and renewal for the pastor every seven years. Next year will be seven years since the last sabbatical.)

✔ Pastor Keith talked about an idea to sit once a week at gathering places around town — coffee shops, hospital, etc. — to be available for anyone who desires prayer.

✔ We received report of communion served at Live Oak on Aug. 5.

✔ Received and approved reports from committees of session as well as minutes of previous meeting.

✔ We discussed the delay in the driveway paving: 1.) companies too busy to bid; 2.) bids coming in too high; 3.) bidders not showing up for scheduled appointments. Charlie continues to head this up, searching for solutions with help from Daryl Pichoff from the finance committee.

✔ The church is getting a new phone system. It should be installed in the next few weeks.

✔ We addressed ways to get the fellowship hall cooler. One thing leads to another. A solution is to install two units — one for the fellowship hall and another for the kitchen/restroom area. Concern is there’s little to no insulation and the windows are drafty. Cost of windows, insulation and HVAC units is in the $15,000 guesstimate.

✔ The meeting closed with prayer.
  

MISSION REPORT
 Cathy Rogers and Al Sprouse, elders 

Thank you to all the members of the congregation who generously donated school supplies to Sarah Kleinschmidt’s Elberta School mission. We sent the remaining school donations to Robertsdale Elementary, where Tosha Thomas teaches kindergarten.

The food pantry has been serving an average of 20 families on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Tina Sprouse is requesting volunteers to assist with grocery shopping, picking up food at Catholic Charities and passing out food on the distribution days. Donations of food are appreciated. Food donations that are especially needed are breakfast cereals, peanut butter and jelly, hearty soups, canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas and sauces, canned meats, and powdered milk. Tina can be reached at 251-510-5444.

During September, the Santa Foundation will again be our focus for financial support. The mission committee has set a goal of $1,000 for this mission that supplies toys and clothes to local needy children. Thank you for your consideration in donating to this worthy cause.

We will be concentrating on donations to our food pantry for Thanksgiving food baskets in October and November. In December, we shall focus our efforts to the Presbyterian Home for Children in Talladega.

Jim Runtz and Chuck Carneal deserve our recognition and support for their continued work of clothes collections for the Presbyterian Home. Congregational members can bring items to the church, and they will be held in Pastor Jody Beth’s office for transport to the home whenever Jim or Chuck are going there. There is a menu of items needed by the home in the back of the church for review. Check with Chuck or Jim for when that happens. Thanks to all who find it in their hearts to contribute to our missions.
  

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
 Charlie Hastings, elder 

If you are interested in joining the church driveway committee, please contact Charlie Hastings or Chuck Carneal. We are looking for anyone who is interested in helping coordinate and plan activities involving the widening of the entrance from Swift Church Road.

SERVICES THIS MONTH

HANG OUT AT THE CARDWELLS’

Keith and Lisa open their back yard to the church family on Sept. 9. Come anytime between 2 and 5 for games, swimming, and hanging out with Swift folks. This is for all ages. Bring a lawn chair and a snack to share. Ice cream and ice will be available. If you want to swim, please bring a towel.

Keith and Lisa live at 900 N. Holly Blvd., Foley.
  

FREE PRAYER, FOLEY

Of course, prayer is free. But sometimes people need an invitation to pray, or someone offering to pray with and for them.

Beginning in September, Pastor Keith will hang out at a local gathering spot offering “free prayer.” Days, times and locations will vary. There will be notification on the “Free Prayer, Foley” Facebook page that will be shared on the church page and Pastor Keith’s personal page.

While anyone is welcome to come for prayer, this is intended for people who might be uncertain or uncomfortable asking for prayer. Sometimes, without a church or religious connection, people don’t know who to ask to pray for them.

Pastor Keith will be in public places with a sign offering “Free Prayer.” He will be there for an hour, more if there’s significant interest on any particular day. He will listen to people’s concerns, pray with them and make available, if they desire, basic information about Swift Church.

How can you be part of this ministry? You can share the weekly location and time. You can pray for Pastor Keith as he meets and prays with others. You can provide location possibilities to Pastor Keith.
  

WORSHIP REPORT
 Greg McNair and Kim Whitchard, elders 

As this is being written, August is winding down and September is almost here. And it’s a bittersweet time — a time when summer is nearly over and new doors of opportunity open up with a new school year. It’s also time for the pace to pick up at our church after Sunday school classes, our choirs and many other church activities have taken a seasonal break.

On Sept. 2, we will celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper at both services. All are welcome at the table to partake of the bread and juice by intinction. Also on that day, there will be a blessing for our labors, whatever they may be. Pastor Jody Beth, Phil Melton and Jane Capsis will lead worship at Live Oak at 1 p.m.

Sept. 9 is a big day — that’s when Sunday school, children’s church and fellowship time will return. The choirs are resuming a busier schedule. A new Bible study on the book of Genesis will start in October on Sunday evenings and Thursday mornings.

Your help is needed in various areas around the church, too. The worship committee is looking for people to serve (starting in October) as acolytes, greeters and nursery helpers in a rotation once about every five weeks. Please see Kim or Greg, your worship elders, if God is leading you to help. We appreciate all who help in any way.

We hope September will bring more of our church family back into the pews on Sunday mornings. It’s not quite the same when you are not with us. We hope your summer has been a happy one with wonderful memories.

Aug. 12 was a special day at Swift Presbyterian Church — backpack blessing and teacher dedication. The worship committee made tags with Bible verses to attach to book bags for our students and teachers. These were presented to them at the blessing of the backpacks and teacher dedication on Aug. 12, three days before the start of the school year in Baldwin County. The tags are a reminder that God is always with them and that their church loves and supports them, too.

Before long the worship committee will meet to start making plans for the season of Advent, Christmas and New Year’s.
  

MUSIC NOTES
 Lisa Cardwell, music director 

The chancel choir will move to its Tuesday night rehearsals on Sept. 11. Rehearsals will begin at 5:45. Throughout the year they will be working on new anthems purchased at the Montreat worship and music conference this summer. The adult handbell choir has started up again for the year. They will play for the 10:00 service on Sept. 23. They also are working on music to play for the Live Oak service on Oct. 7.

Our chime choir (the Joyful Tones) played for the Live Oak residents on Aug. 5. The chimes accompanied the residents as they sang several hymns. This was the first time most of the residents present had heard chimes, and they expressed gratitude to the choir for coming and sharing their time and talents with them. In serving others, we often receive blessings ourselves.

Coming up: On Nov. 4, our chime choir will play for the 8:00 service and the handbell choir will play for the 10:00 service to celebrate Stewardship Sunday. Also, since this is also All Saints’ Day, we will be continuing our tradition of recognizing those saints who have died since last All Saints’ Day. A bell will be rung after each saint’s name is read.

Our Christmas program is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 16, during the 10:00 service. I’m also looking for people who are interested in playing in a beginner handbell group for this service. This group can be comprised of children (second grade) up to senior citizens. Contact me if you or your child is interested. We will rehearse starting six weeks prior to this date.

So you see, there are opportunities in chiming, ringing, and singing all to the glory of God. We hope to have a year of Spirit- and joy-filled worship services.
  

SANCTUARY FLOWER SCHEDULING
Susie Alexander schedules our Sunday flower donations. Please call her to reserve your date.
You can reach Susie at 251-943-4145 or thfairynfoley@gmail.com.
Dates available: Sept. 23 and 30; all of October
  

QUILT RACK NEEDED
If anyone has a quilt rack to loan the craft group, we need one to place in the fellowship hall for September.
Please contact Lee Mansell at 251-232-4775.
Thank you.

‘TWO OR MORE’ FELLOWSHIP LUNCH
Thursday, Sept. 6 • 11:30 a.m.
Gulf Bowl, Captain’s Choice Grill — Juniper Street, Foley
Couples, singles, men, women, first-timers, old-timers — everyone is invited and welcome.
Delicious food, reasonable prices and great conversation. Come and meet new friends.
 

BUTTERFLY GIRLS • GUYS’ NIGHT OUT
Thursday, Sept. 20 • 6:30 p.m.
Cactus Cantina — 3849 Gulf Shores Parkway, Suite 1, Gulf Shores

Please call or text Mary at 251-295-5267 by 4 p.m. that day if you know you’re coming so adequate table space can be reserved. (A few extra chairs will be reserved for any last-minute deciders.) Our group is growing ever since the girls and guys meet at the same place, although we sit and visit together separately.

Come join us this month. Couples or singles are welcome.

Join us and suggest new places for us to try.
  

STEWARDSHIP TAILGATE PARTY
Sunday, Nov. 4, after 10:00 worship

Mark your calendars for a church-wide stewardship tailgate party on Sunday, Nov. 4, after the 10 a.m. worship service. Wear your team colors to worship, and then plan to head to the fellowship hall for some good ol’ food and fellowship. Pork barbecue and rolls will be provided.

It’s only September, but November’s just around the corner. Start checking your recipes now for what sides you might like to bring along — cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans or a family favorite, and of course … desserts. We are suggesting that people with last names beginning with A–O bring a side, and P–Z bring a dessert. But as always, anything you are able to provide will be greatly appreciated. For questions on the fellowship event, contact Pastor Jody Beth, 251-213-6625.

YOUTH REPORT
 Tara Morrow, elder 

■ Wednesday, Sept. 5 — Refuel will meet at the Akinses’.

■ Sunday, Sept. 9 — Youth Sunday school begins at 9 a.m.
        Parent meeting for Montreat information — after 10:00 worship

■ Saturday, Sept. 15 — Youth missions — Hailey Vanbrimmer

■ Sunday, Sept. 30 — GɸG, 4 to 6 p.m.
  

SNACKS WITH SUSAN AND DARYL
 Susan and Daryl Pichoff, leaders 

After taking a break, the class will be starting up again on Sunday, Sept. 9. We will begin the year with Short Stories by Jesus: The Enigmatic Parables of a Controversial Rabbi by Amy-Jill Levine. This is a six-week look at some familiar stories in a not-so-familiar way. This time we are going to have a book that goes along with the video series ($10; if cost is an issue, we can work it out) and I’ll try to get those out as soon as they are received. If you were thinking about joining a class, this is a great place to start. If I can answer any questions, please let me know and I hope you’ll join us. Contact Susan at tabfanatic@gmail.com or 251-233-9486 (phone or text).
  

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
 Anthony Kaiser and Cheryl Jensen, teachers 

The class is studying 90 weeks through the New Testament in Chronological Order with powerful insights and personal application. The study is by Ron Rhodes. We are halfway though our book and will soon be studying the book of Acts — a perfect time for you to join us. Each week there is a lot to learn. Come and be a part of “growing in Christ” as we study His word. We meet at 9:00 on Sunday mornings in the room 2 in the annex and always have an extra chair set for you.
  

BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP GROUPS
FOR ADULTS AT SWIFT CHURCH

We are blessed to have so many people who would like to be part of Bible study and fellowship at Swift Church. Here is a listing of the groups currently meeting. All of them are open to people visiting and/or joining the group, whether you are a member of Swift Church or not. For more information, contact the leaders or the church office.

Weekly:

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., adult Sunday school class, room 2 in the annex, a chronological study of the New Testament, led by Cheryl Jensen and Anthony Kaiser.

• Sundays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., Snacks with Susan and Daryl, fellowship hall, led by Daryl and Susan Pichoff; topic varies. The class will resume Sept. 9 with new informative topics.

• Sunday evening and Thursday morning Bible study groups met once each month for the summer, studying Faith, Hope and Love. The book of Genesis will be the next weekly study, starting in October. Interested students are encouraged to begin reading through Genesis during the month of September. Contacts are Pastor Jody Beth and Philip Melton, 251-213-6625.

Monthly:

• Thursdays (first Thursday of month), 11:30 a.m., “Two or More” fellowship lunch at Captain’s Choice Grill at the Gulf Bowl in Foley on Juniper Street. Contact is Lee Mansell.

• Thursdays (third Thursday of month), 6:30 p.m., Butterfly Girls and Guys’ Night Out fellowship dinner at area restaurants, different place each month. Sometimes men and women eat at same restaurant at separate tables, sometimes two restaurants near one another. Contacts are Mary McNair and Susan Pichoff.

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

The Swift Church session met on Monday night, Aug. 20.

✔ We spent some time talking about Pastor Keith’s 2019 sabbatical. (For those who don’t know, the church offers a three-month time of study, rest and renewal for the pastor every seven years. Next year will be seven years since the last sabbatical.)

✔ Pastor Keith talked about an idea to sit once a week at gathering places around town — coffee shops, hospital, etc. — to be available for anyone who desires prayer.

✔ We received report of communion served at Live Oak on Aug. 5.

✔ Received and approved reports from committees of session as well as minutes of previous meeting.

✔ We discussed the delay in the driveway paving: 1.) companies too busy to bid; 2.) bids coming in too high; 3.) bidders not showing up for scheduled appointments. Charlie continues to head this up, searching for solutions with help from Daryl Pichoff from the finance committee.

✔ The church is getting a new phone system. It should be installed in the next few weeks.

✔ We addressed ways to get the fellowship hall cooler. One thing leads to another. A solution is to install two units — one for the fellowship hall and another for the kitchen/restroom area. Concern is there’s little to no insulation and the windows are drafty. Cost of windows, insulation and HVAC units is in the $15,000 guesstimate.

✔ The meeting closed with prayer.
  

MISSION REPORT
 Cathy Rogers and Al Sprouse, elders 

Thank you to all the members of the congregation who generously donated school supplies to Sarah Kleinschmidt’s Elberta School mission. We sent the remaining school donations to Robertsdale Elementary, where Tosha Thomas teaches kindergarten.

The food pantry has been serving an average of 20 families on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Tina Sprouse is requesting volunteers to assist with grocery shopping, picking up food at Catholic Charities and passing out food on the distribution days. Donations of food are appreciated. Food donations that are especially needed are breakfast cereals, peanut butter and jelly, hearty soups, canned fruits, canned vegetables, pastas and sauces, canned meats, and powdered milk. Tina can be reached at 251-510-5444.

During September, the Santa Foundation will again be our focus for financial support. The mission committee has set a goal of $1,000 for this mission that supplies toys and clothes to local needy children. Thank you for your consideration in donating to this worthy cause.

We will be concentrating on donations to our food pantry for Thanksgiving food baskets in October and November. In December, we shall focus our efforts to the Presbyterian Home for Children in Talladega.

Jim Runtz and Chuck Carneal deserve our recognition and support for their continued work of clothes collections for the Presbyterian Home. Congregational members can bring items to the church, and they will be held in Pastor Jody Beth’s office for transport to the home whenever Jim or Chuck are going there. There is a menu of items needed by the home in the back of the church for review. Check with Chuck or Jim for when that happens. Thanks to all who find it in their hearts to contribute to our missions.
  

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
 Charlie Hastings, elder 

If you are interested in joining the church driveway committee, please contact Charlie Hastings or Chuck Carneal. We are looking for anyone who is interested in helping coordinate and plan activities involving the widening of the entrance from Swift Church Road.