Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the fourth edition of Sharing with the Saints in 2025. As we reflect on the final quarter of last year, we are grateful for the many ways the Lord has cared for His people through the faithful service of this congregation. May these updates encourage your hearts and remind you of God’s steady provision and grace among us.

Devotional

Author: Charles Hagan
Text: Psalm 1:1-3

1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2  but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
3  He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

As we kick off yet another new year, we might find ourselves wrapped in the midst of a busy holiday season; worn out from travel, overfilled from Christmas dinners and parties, excited by what we hope this new year will bring (or maybe stressed by it), and many other distractions to busy our minds. Many of you are perhaps embarking on a New Year’s Resolution such as eating healthier in 2026, cold-turkey quits of social media, or working toward a promotion at work, or even reading the entire Bible in a year. In these hurried and busy seasons of life, many items can occupy our mind all at once, while, regrettably, the spiritual matters are left seemingly booted from the memory drive.

Perhaps one of the best refreshers for spiritual growth & improvement lies in the first Psalm. In Psalm 1, we find a simple yet rich recipe for prosperous and steadfast living. The psalmist points to the blessed man as someone who avoids “the counsel of the wicked” but rather finds delight “in the law of the Lord” and as someone who meditates on God’s law day and night (vs 2). That could be seen as an awfully strange concept to a non-Christian, or perhaps even a Christian, given this modern era’s view of the law. The common view, it seems, is that God’s law is mean, capricious, and stale. While the law as a judge is more than we can bear, we see that the law is a revelation of God to what is acceptable and pleasing to Him. If God, in His holiness, banished Adam & Eve from the garden because of sin, then God’s law is our compass back to fellowship with Him, (and by grace through the Lord Jesus Christ!). Psalm 19 tells us “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul” (vs 7) and that His rules and law is more desirable than gold (vs 10). Matthew Henry puts this in applicable thoughts, writing, “We may judge our spiritual state by asking, ‘What is the law of God to us? What account do we make of it?

What place has it in us?’” Dr. Hall pointedly asked in a recent sermon last Fall, “Where does our mind go when it slips into neutral?” All the above questions indeed are helpful in a self-critique of our spiritual state. As concerned as we are in all matters of life with work, relationships, fitness, finances, stress, are we over-occupied in these areas to the point where we are meditating on anything and everything BUT God’s law?

Let us strive for a recalibration of our compass this New Year and to not neglect the things Scripture points us to in matters of importance and value. Let us meditate on God’s law that we may strive in glorifying and enjoying Him forever. For if there is no middle ground between obedience and sin, then we, as a rescued and redeemed people, ought to pursue God’s law by faith with thanksgiving that we are already called children of God, heirs of the promise, understanding that we were created in Christ Jesus for good works.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
We closed the year with gratitude, reflecting on how the Lord continued to bring needs before us,  and how He faithfully provided opportunities to respond with care, wisdom, and prayer. During the fourth quarter, Mercy Ministries received 14 requests for assistance, and we were able to support 9 individuals.

• October: 4 requests, 3 assisted = One case could not be assisted after the individual did not follow through on a scheduled appointment.
• November: 2 requests, both assisted - A quiet but encouraging month where every need brought to us could be met.
• December: 8 requests, 4 assisted -  Several cases could not be supported due to no-shows or circumstances that made assistance unwise at the time.

As always, each request was met with prayer, conversation, and discernment. Even when material help could not be provided, we sought to offer care, counsel, and a listening ear, trusting the Lord to work beyond what we could see.

Mercy Ministry — 2025 Year in Review
In 2025, Mercy Ministries received 65 requests and assisted in 28 cases. Requests that could not be supported were most often due to recent prior assistance, location outside our service area, lack of follow-through, or funding constraints at certain times of the year.

We are thankful for the Lord’s provision throughout the year — for the needs we were able to meet and for the wisdom He supplied when limits required restraint. As we look ahead, we pray for continued clarity, compassion, and generosity as we seek to serve in Christ’s name.

How Can You Help?
If the Lord leads you, we invite you to prayerfully consider supporting the Deacon Mercy Fund. Your giving directly enables us to respond when needs arise, especially in months when requests come quickly or before funds are fully available. Donations can be made via the Onrealm Giving app or by specifying "Deacon Mercy Fund" on your giving envelope. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of those in need within our church and community. Thank you for your continued support!

Service Projects Update – (Diaconate & Congregant Partnership)
The fourth quarter gave us several meaningful opportunities to serve both our church family and the broader body of Christ. Once again, we were encouraged by the willingness, flexibility, and joyful spirit of those who stepped in to help.

Peng Family Move — November 1
Volunteers gathered to help Pastor Paul Peng and Nora Peng move out of their apartment following his sabbatical with us. Furniture and household items were carefully disassembled, loaded, and delivered to multiple destinations, including Grace PCA in Dallas, Phil Schrock’s home, and Goodwill. What could have been a long and difficult day was completed quickly and smoothly — a true example of “many hands making light work.”

Volunteers: Phil Schrock, Charles Hagan, Boobi Mitchell (For her coordination), Justin Giannace, Levi Giannace, and others.

We continue to pray for Pastor Peng, Nora, and the Chinese Christian Church, thanking God for the refreshment and fellowship shared during their time with us.

Reformation & Worship Conference Support — October 16–17
Deacons and volunteers supported the Reformation & Worship Conference by serving as ushers, assisting with evening cleanup, and ensuring the building was secured each night. Their presence helped provide a welcoming, orderly environment for worship and learning.

Volunteers: Charles Hagan, Larry Eller, Justin Giannace, Carter Kinnick, Sammy Mitchell, Ed Buehler, Brady Pritchett, Wiley Pritchett, David Jackson, Jarrod Tepe, and Tom Biondolillo

We are grateful for those who quietly served behind the scenes, enabling the conference to run smoothly and hospitably.

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)

The Buildings & Grounds team continued steady, faithful care of our campus throughout the final quarter of the year. We are especially thankful for Kyle Lipstreu’s diligence and for the many who assisted during moments that required extra hands and coordination.

October

• Completed HVAC planning and finalized system renderings
• Conducted a roof health check and cleared a clogged school-side gutter drain
• Reconfigured Fellowship Hall for school events and church gatherings
• Addressed an A/C overflow, including electrical rewiring, ceiling tile replacement, and cleanup
• Updated elevator and boiler room safety inspections
• Worked with insurance partners to finalize follow-up action plans
• Maintained restroom functionality and supplies
• Special thanks to Peter Ian and Evanda for help with the A/C flood repair, and to Justin and others who coordinated the churchwide cleanup.

November

• Supported Reformation & Worship Conference setup and cleanup
• Managed frequent Fellowship Hall reconfigurations
•  Switched door directional locks for the middle school
• Fixed restroom and nursery-area doors; replaced bulbs and ceiling tiles
•  Updated Trane HVAC coding to restore proper cooling
• Covered vulnerable outdoor piping and addressed pest issues
• Created an on-campus building render binder for future planning
• Additional thanks to Peter Ian for coordinating the inspection and clearing of the foundation and drain lines near the ’87 building.

December

• Set up for WIC Christmas decorations
• Caulking around multiple sanctuary windows
• Toilet flush valve fully replaced in one restroom; parts installed for three others
• Nursery bathroom bulbs replaced
• AED box installed in nursery (awaiting correct pads; temporarily unavailable)
• Wall repair in ’87 classroom after exterior water intrusion
• Vacuum repair, chair dolly repair, and restroom deep cleaning

We are grateful for the many unseen hours invested in maintaining a safe, functional, and welcoming campus for worship, education, and fellowship.

Risk Management Committee Update (Charles Hagan)
Each Lord’s Day, two trained volunteers serve during both worship services to oversee campus safety — watching entrances, nursery areas, vehicles, and general activity. If you see something concerning, please notify a deacon or usher immediately. See email addresses in the table below and use our Instant Church Directory to look up phone numbers.

We are seeking additional volunteers to lighten the rotation frequency.

If you are willing to serve, contact Charles Hagan — achagan88@outlook.com.

For door-access issues, email access@midwaypca.org.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our joy and privilege to serve you in Christ. Thank you for your prayers, generosity, and willingness to bear one another’s burdens. We are thankful for God’s faithfulness throughout this past year and look ahead with confidence to His continued provision.

If you are in need of assistance or would like to serve in any capacity, please do not hesitate to reach out to a deacon or committee chair. May the Lord bless and keep you as we enter a new year together.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the third edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2025. As we reflect on the third quarter of the year, we take joy in sharing the meaningful ways our church has been served and has grown through faithful stewardship. May these updates uplift your spirit and remind you of God’s unwavering grace in our community.

Devotional

Title: How Do We Face The Monster Without Turning Into One?
Author: Cilas Menenez

The death of Charlie Kirk reminds us of a hard truth: when we face hatred and evil, the danger is that we begin to mirror it. The monster outside can awaken the monster inside.

But Scripture shows us a better way.

1. It Is Right to Hate Evil: God Himself is angry with the wicked every day (Psalm 7:11). The Psalms teach us not to suppress righteous anger but to bring it to God. The imprecatory psalms cry, “Break the arm of the wicked” (Psalm 10:15) — not because we are vengeful, but because God alone is just. Our anger finds its proper outlet in prayer (even for righteous penalties to be applied by God's appointed means - see point 3), not personal vengeance.
2. God’s Moral Law Protects Us: We stand firm only when we live under His objective, pre-ordained moral law. This law is holy and keeps us from taking matters into our own hands. It channels our cries for justice into the hands of the Righteous Judge.
3. God Ordained the State for Justice: Romans 13 teaches that civil authorities are “God’s servants for your good.” They are meant to restrain evil and uphold order. Christians must pray for rulers, obey just laws, and call leaders to govern with righteousness.
4. Our Christian Posture: Prayer, Participation, Perspective
   • Pray imprecatory psalms against wickedness, but also prayers of intercession for repentance and mercy.
   • Participate faithfully as citizens, working for truth and justice with integrity.
   •  Keep perspective: this world is not our home. Our true citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).
5. Our Eternal Hope: The world’s hatred is real, but temporary. Those who have died in Christ reign with Him now (Rev. 20:6). One day, Jesus will return to judge in righteousness, and His people will see His face in glory.

So how do we face the monster? By hating evil without becoming evil, by bringing our anger to God in prayer, by trusting His justice, and by anchoring our hope in Christ’s coming Kingdom.

A Prayer:
“Heavenly Father, we grieve the sinfulness of this world. We are angry at injustice, and we bring that anger to You. Keep us from vengeance, yet stir us to cry out for justice. Teach us to long for Your return, when You will wipe away every tear and make all things new. Keep us holy as we wait, for Jesus' sake and in His name we pray, amen.”

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
During the third quarter of 2025, Mercy Ministries received thirteen (13) requests for assistance, and we were able to meet four (4) of those needs. Though not every situation could be supported, we remain thankful that the Lord continues to bring people across our path, giving us opportunities to care, pray, and walk alongside them as we are able.

• July: Was our busiest month, with seven requests. We were able to help one gentleman with grocery support through Kroger gift cards. The remaining requests, however, could not be assisted due to the transition into a new budget year and funds not yet available for distribution.
• August: Two needs were brought forward, and one was supported.
• September: We had four (4) requests, but were only able to help in two cases.

These numbers only tell a small part of the story. Every request represents someone bearing real burdens and seeking help, and behind every "yes" and every "not yet" are prayers for wisdom, discernment, and provision. We continue to ask the Lord to make us faithful stewards and to grow our capacity to serve those whom He brings to us.

How Can You Help?    
If the Lord leads you, we invite you to prayerfully consider supporting the Deacon Mercy Fund. Your giving directly enables us to respond when needs arise, especially in months when requests come quickly or before funds are fully available. Donations can be made via the Onrealm Giving app or by specifying "Deacon Mercy Fund" on your giving envelope. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of those in need within our church and community. Thank you for your continued support!

Service Projects Update – (Diaconate & Congregant Partnership)
We give thanks for the many hands that labored in love throughout this quarter. The Lord continues to bless our congregation with members who are quick to serve, willing to work, and joyful in meeting tangible needs among our church family. Below are several opportunities where service and fellowship came together beautifully this summer and early fall.

Paul Peng’s Family Move — July 26
Volunteers gathered to welcome Visiting Pastor Paul Peng and his family from China as they settled into Citizens Square Villas for their sabbatical. Furniture for the home was generously provided by Phil Schrock, whose basement collections became a blessing to the Pengs as they began their season with us.

Volunteers: Brian Washington & Sons, Phil Schrock, Kyle Lipstreu, Carter Kinnick, and Charles Hagan.

Logan Pritchett Move — September 27
Volunteers came together to assist Logan Pritchett during a household move — a simple act of service, but a meaningful way to care for a brother in Christ.

Volunteers: Kaleigh Morrison, Jack Pursley, Wiley Pritchett, and Evanda Remington & Sons.

Church Work Day — September 20
Ahead of the Reformation & Worship Conference, our congregation joined together for a Church Work Day to prepare the grounds. Dead shrubs were removed, weeds cleared, and fresh wood chips laid throughout several garden areas. It was a day marked by good work, warm fellowship, and shared joy in caring for the place where we gather to worship.

Volunteers: Scott Keesee, Evanda Remington & Sons, Carter Kinnick, Tom & Tommy Biondolillo, and The Washington Family.

? See images below for highlights from these projects.

We are grateful for every hand that lifted, trimmed, swept, hauled, and encouraged. These acts of quiet service are a living testimony of Christ’s love at work in His people.

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)

This quarter brought significant progress in caring for and improving our church campus. We are especially grateful for the diligent work of Kyle Lipstreu, along with several others, whose hands and attention keep our facilities safe, functional, and welcoming for worship and ministry.

July

• Pavilion improvements: top rail replaced, picnic tables stained, four ceiling fans replaced
• Drainage trenches dug in parking areas; fire ants treated
• Restroom repairs and electrical fixes completed
• New dumpster installed; light bulbs replaced across campus
• Pressure-washed the front walkway from 87 sanctuary to nursery + curb from graveyard to pavilion

August

• Steeple fully repaired (See images below)
• Choir room roof section replaced
• Stucco pressure washing completed on the ’09 and ’87 buildings
• School prepared for teachers; classrooms reset; kitchen drainage work continued
• A/C leak repaired; campus fire alarm scan completed

September

• Roof leak addressed; ceiling tiles replaced
• Sanctuary bulbs replaced; light panel reprogrammed.
• Trees and bushes trimmed; pest control scheduled
• Drainage improvements for the elementary playground
• School and classroom maintenance continued
• Boom rental secured at 50% savings, special thanks to Kyle Lipstreu
• Began digital blueprint of campus layout for future planning

We are thankful for the many unseen hours invested in preserving and improving the buildings we worship and gather in. Please join us in expressing gratitude to those who work quietly and faithfully to steward our facilities well.

Risk Management Committee Update (Charles Hagan)
Each Lord’s Day, two trained volunteers serve during both worship services to oversee campus safety, watching entrances, nursery areas, vehicles, and general activity. If you see something concerning, please notify a deacon or usher immediately. See email addresses in the table below and use our Instant Church Directory to look up phone numbers.

We are also seeking additional volunteers to lighten the rotation frequency. If you are willing to serve, contact Charles Hagan — achagan88@outlook.com.

For door-access issues, email access@midwaypca.org.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our joy to serve you in Christ. Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and partnership in mercy, stewardship, and care for one another. May the Lord continue to strengthen His church, that we may shine with holiness, charity, and hope until He returns.

For needs, assistance, or ways to serve, we welcome you to speak with any deacon or committee lead.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the second edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2025. As we look back on the second quarter of the year, it is our joy to share the meaningful ways our church has been served and has grown through faithful stewardship. May these updates uplift your spirit and remind you of God’s unwavering grace in our community.

Devotional
Text(s): Matthew 5:13-16

13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that[a] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Before we recap the 2nd quarter events and updates at Midway Presbyterian Church, we want to look back at a particular sermon given by Dr. Hall on May 18th, “Salt and Light—Not Honey and Shade,” where we dove into Matthew 5:13-16 during Dr. Hall’s series over the Sermon on the Mount. The sermon being referenced in this devotional can be found here.

In a brief review of this sharp application of the believer’s role IN the world, we want to focus particularly on the duty of salt as prescribed by our Lord. Jesus calls us the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Dr. Hall examines in his sermon what that means. Before we review this, though, we are reminded that in Jesus’ call for us to be salt & light, we must understand that the world is in a bad state. A dish needing no amendments is a good dish; salt is not then needed. A room needing no light must be already well lit. Jesus is telling his disciples that the world is not already perfect and holy, but that it is in need of these distinctive amendments: salt & light.

In regard to salt, we see two functions of salt: preserving and seasoning. As a preserving agent, we are “to arrest decay and combat deterioration.” Salt is commonly used as a way to preserve the meat of a dead body for food; therefore, in a sense, bringing life to something without life. In light of this view of the Christian in the world, Dr. Hall puts it in this context: “You are the new soul and new principle of life in a decaying world.”

As a seasoning, salt enhances taste. It makes the bland flavorful. For Christians, “amidst a society of decay, we are to have a characteristic flavoring ministry.” Salt does not sit on top of the food but is mixed INTO the food in order to have its intended effect. We will not accomplish the Great Commission if we isolate ourselves from the world; thus, we are to go out into the world “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matt 28:20a). Furthermore, as salt blends into the world, it also causes pain in wounds. We know and are prepped all throughout Scripture that the message we proclaim will be rejected and cause a stinging pain to those who are perishing. Dr. Hall reminds us that “we are not the honey of the world,” and that “the unadulterated message of God is a biting thing.”

Lastly, if salt does function as intended, if it is not absorbed by its surroundings, it is useless, “thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.” The saltiness cannot be restored. The Christian must retain his Christlikeness. If not, we are warned that instead of preserving and enhancing the world, we might as well be thrown out and trampled underfoot. Let this message stir us up to draw near to Christ and be a bold and powerful witness of His in a dark and bland world, so desperately in need of the salt of God’s Word.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
In the second quarter of 2025, Mercy Ministries received 18 assistance requests. Of these, we were able to support 6 cases (33%), while 12 requests (67%) were unassisted due to factors such as prior recent support, location outside our coverage area, lack of response, or limited available funding.

• April brought 8 requests. We assisted 3, while 5 were unassisted—each either outside our service area or already helped in recent months.
• May also saw 8 requests. We provided support for 3 cases. Of the remaining 5, two could not be assisted, one individual did not respond after showing initial interest, and two are still pending resolution.
• June was quieter, with 2 requests. Unfortunately, we were unable to assist either due to a lack of available funding at the time.

Although not every need could be met, Mercy Ministries continues to serve our congregation and community prayerfully. We remain committed to offering both practical help and the encouragement of Christ’s love wherever possible.

How Can You Help?    
You can ensure that even more needs are met in 2025 by donating to the Deacon Mercy Fund. Donations can be made via the Onrealm Giving app or by specifying "Deacon Mercy Fund" on your giving envelope. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of those in need within our church and community. Thank you for your continued support!

Service Projects Update – (Diaconate & Congregant Partnership)
Service Projects are supported by helping hands from across our church family, not just the Diaconate. Whether you’re handy with tools, strong enough to move furniture, or simply willing to lend your time, we’d love to have you involved. To join Service Projects and be notified of upcoming opportunities, please email serviceprojects@midwaypca.org.This quarter, our deacons and volunteers were blessed with several opportunities to serve members of our church family and community:

• Landscaping at Midway: Angel Tango, Kim Washington, Ed Buehler, Justin Giannace, Wiley Pritchett, Tom & Tommy Biondolillo, and Matt Buehler worked together to weed, prune, and plan future work on partially dead dogwoods and azaleas near Midway Road.
• Assisting the Elder Family: Kyle Lipstreu, Evanda Remington & Son, and Tom & Tommy Biondolillo helped clean a roof and gutters, clear downspouts, and remove ivy at the home of Beth Elder’s brother and sister-in-law as Beth provides full-time care for her sister-in-law during a difficult time.
• Tree Work at the Cooper's: Evanda Remington & Sons, Jake Chandler, Jack Pursley, and Kyle Lipstreu helped remove damaged trees to ensure safety for the Cooper family. See images below.
• Church Picnic: The deacons assisted with the setup and tear-down, making the day a joyful and well-organized time of fellowship. See images below.

We are grateful for all who served with cheerful hearts and willing hands to meet these needs!

Tree Work at the Cooper's

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Buildings & Grounds Committee remains committed to maintaining the safety, functionality, and beauty of our church campus. Through both major repairs and seasonal improvements, we are grateful for the faithful stewardship of those who serve in this ministry. If you notice anything on campus that needs attention, please contact a deacon so we can address it promptly.

Here are a few key updates from this past quarter:

• Repairs and Maintenance:
  • Completed sprinkler and backflow inspections.
  • Repaired pressure washer, hose bib, bathroom stall lock, countertop edging, pavilion railing, and various plumbing issues.
  • Replaced fire extinguishers and re-established proper placement in the kitchen.
  • Treated fire ants and completed general grounds cleanup.
  • Located and repaired a hallway leak near the sanctuary.
• HVAC and Electrical:
  • Completed annual HVAC maintenance; replaced the compressor in the pastor’s office and ordered a new school unit compressor.
  • Addressed lighting issues across the school side and sanctuary panel.
• Roof and Exterior:
  • Coordinated with the roofing contractor regarding steeple shingles and explored using a boom lift to combine repairs with pressure washing.
  • Cleared canopy areas and roof drains of debris for proper water flow.
• Additional Facility Improvements:
  • Installed cutouts for nursery chair safety.
  • Completed flush installation of sign rebar.
  • Organized pavilion maintenance and trash removal.
  • Prepared a fencing plan for the school playground for improved safety.
  • Pressure-washed the picnic tables and replaced the ceiling fans before the churchwide picnic, please see image below.

Thank you to Dan and Kyle, and all who have contributed their time and expertise to keep our campus safe and welcoming!

Risk Management Committee Update (Charles Hagan)
Each Sunday, we keep two able-bodied men from our congregation on duty during both the morning and evening services to watch over the premises. Their role is to ensure the safety of our grounds, nursery, vehicles, and all who gather for worship.

If you ever notice suspicious behavior, please alert a deacon or usher immediately so we can respond appropriately. While we are grateful to live in a relatively safe community, we believe it is wise to take every precaution to protect our church family.

We are also seeking to expand our security rotation so that volunteers can serve less frequently. If you are interested in helping with this important ministry, please contact Charles Hagan (achagan88@outlook.com) for more information.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the current diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the first edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2025. As we look back on the first quarter of the year, it is our joy to share the meaningful ways our church has been served and has grown through faithful stewardship. May these updates uplift your spirit and remind you of God’s unwavering grace in our community.

Devotional
Text(s): Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34:1–14, Mark 6:30–44, John 10:11–18, Revelation 7

During the first quarter of the new year, Pastor Cilas Menezes preached a sermon series featuring the theme of our God as a Shepherd. For the first devotional of the Deacon’s newsletter this year, we are going to feature a recap of Pastor Cilas’ sermon series and the great message received.

The Bible portrays God as the shepherd of His people in its opening and closing books (Genesis 48 & Revelation 7). Through Pastor Cilas’s series, we will see 5 key points and themes weaving together the narrative of God’s unwavering care and guidance throughout Scripture, His shepherding heart and the ultimate expression of a shepherd through Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who leads His people home.

The first sermon was Psalm 23, “The Shepherd in the Beginning: God’s Care for Israel.”  This psalm introduces the classic image of the Lord as a shepherd. David declares that the Lord is his shepherd, and thus, he lacks nothing. God makes him lie down in green pastures, leads him beside still waters, and restores his soul. The themes explored here, such as provision, rest, and peace, are foundational to understanding God’s shepherding nature.
This sermon establishes the theme of God's shepherding care as a continual presence in the lives of His people, beginning with Israel’s patriarchs. It emphasizes God’s provision, protection, and guidance and introduces the personal and intimate relationship God desires with His people.

Next, we explored Ezekiel 34:1-14. “Thus says the Lord God: Ah shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not the shepherds feed the sheep? (vs 2b); Behold, I, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out.” (vs 11)
In this passage, God condemns the corrupt shepherds of Israel, who have failed to care for the sheep, and promises that He will seek out and save His scattered sheep. “I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.” This powerful prophecy shows God’s desire to care for His people directly and His judgment on those who neglect the flock. God’s shepherding is about provision, justice, healing, and restoring what is lost.

The third sermon in the series covered Mark 6:30-44, illustrating “The All-Sufficient Shepherd: Promise Fulfilled in Christ,” a theme of the Shepherd’s Compassion and Consistency. “When He went ashore He saw a great crowd, and He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And He began to teach them many things” (vs 34). In this passage, Jesus enacted the fulfillment of God’s promise to gather His scattered people and restore them. This episode highlights Jesus’ compassion (character) and competency (power) as the God-man to be the divine shepherd who alone can provide for all our needs. This passage further highlights God’s faithfulness to His covenant, care for the weak, and desire to restore His people to a place of blessing and safety.

Fourthly, Pastor Cilas covered Jesus as the Good Shepherd in John 10: 11-18: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (vs 11). In this powerful passage, Jesus declares Himself to be the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep. He contrasts Himself with the hired hand, who runs away when danger comes. Jesus emphasizes His intimate relationship with the Father and with His sheep. He knows them, and they know Him. His shepherding is sacrificial, personal, and eternal. This passage culminates in Jesus’ ultimate act of love and sacrifice on the cross. This sermon introduced the fulfillment of all promises made in the Old Testament regarding God as the Shepherd. Jesus embodies the shepherding role and fulfills it by laying down His life for the sheep.

The culmination of this series of God as our Great Shepherd circles back to Psalm 23 in verses 5 & 6, centering on The Eternal Shepherd and the Future Glory of His People. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever” (vs 6). In this passage, David describes the eternal joy and comfort of God’s people in heaven as dwelling in the Lord’s house forever. There is a clear-cut connection of this passage/idea with Revelation 7, where we read that “the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” This vision of the ultimate fulfillment of God’s shepherding care envisions a place where His people will experience perfect peace, restoration, and comfort forever.
This final sermon ties together the themes of God’s shepherding role in our lives today and in the eternal future. It underscores the hope that, as believers, we are continually cared for by the Shepherd, both in this life and in the life to come. It also emphasizes the completeness of God’s shepherding care, leading us to eternal life and perfect fellowship with Him.

PS: If you’d like to revisit any part of this sermon series—or others—they are available on YouTube (search Midway Presbyterian Church) and on the Midway app.

The officers of your church warmly encourage you to join us for Sunday evening worship at 5:30 P.M., a meaningful time of fellowship and praise to our risen Lord. In addition to our 11:00 A.M. worship service, we are blessed with three other gifted pastors who regularly lead us in the evening service.

We hope you’ll consider making both Sunday School and Sunday Evening Worship a regular part of your Lord’s Day.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
In the first quarter of 2025, Mercy Ministries received a total of 20 assistance requests. Of these, we were able to support 9 cases (45%), while 11 requests (55%) were unassisted due to factors such as prior recent support, distance beyond our service area, or no-shows.

• January saw 5 new requests. We assisted 3, while 2 went unserved—one due to distance and another due to a missed appointment.
• February brought 7 requests. We supported 3, and 4 were not assisted: three had previously received help, and one did not attend a scheduled visit.
• March had 8 total requests. We provided support in 3 cases. The remaining 5 were outside our service range or had been recently assisted.

How Can You Help?
The Mercy Projects are supported by helping hands from across our church family, not just the Diaconate. Whether you’re handy with tools, strong enough to move furniture, or simply willing to lend your time, we’d love to have you involved. To join our Mercy Projects team and be notified of upcoming opportunities, please email; mercyprojects@midwaypca.org. Additionally, you can ensure that even more needs are met in 2025 by donating to the Deacon Mercy Fund. Donations can be made via the Onrealm Giving app or by specifying "Deacon Mercy Fund" on your giving envelope. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of those in need within our church and community. Thank you for your continued support!

Through God’s grace and the faithful giving of His people, we can continue to minister to those in need, reflecting Christ’s love in both word and deed. Thank you for your prayers and support, and may God be glorified in all we do!

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Buildings & Grounds Committee continues to work diligently to maintain the safety, functionality, and beauty of our church facilities. From major repairs to thoughtful seasonal improvements, we’re grateful for the faithful stewardship of those who serve in this capacity. If you notice anything on campus needing attention, please don’t hesitate to let a deacon know. Here are just a few of the many updates and accomplishments from this quarter:

• We partnered with Kim and Angel to remove overgrown shrubs, weeds, and small trees around the property. Kim and Angel generously donated many of the new plants, and we also purchased a few additional ones to complement the landscape. We had great help with planting and relocating plants from Kim, Angel, Bob, Ken, and Carolyn, among others. Many thanks to each of them for their ideas, hard work, and cheerful support throughout the process.
• The heating and cooling unit by Wilson was replaced, and the new projector was installed in the Explorer’s Sunday School room.
• New storage solutions were implemented for both the Youth Room and the Maintenance Office.
• Repairs included a school detention desk, ping pong table, narthex cabinet trim, men’s restroom paper towel dispenser, and multiple school toilets.
• A total of eleven emergency exit signs were replaced, and we’re finalizing a comprehensive labeling system for improved safety.
• Emergency lighting was updated in stairwells, bulbs were replaced across the school, and we unclogged a sink and repaired a urinal.
• Significant work was done to the exterior wall in Mrs. Demars’ room to stop water penetration; temporary repairs and insulation replacement were completed.
• We repaired the exterior door at the nursery entrance and ensured safety measures were in place, including sidewalk repairs and fire ant treatment.
• We’re preparing to repaint sloped curbs for visibility, fence off a portion of the school playground, and inspect the backflow system.
• Layouts for the Reformation Worship Conference were developed for more efficient facility use.
• A deterrent treatment was applied in the organ chamber to reduce the risk of silverfish and rodents.
• We assisted with event setup for weekly services, school events, and special occasions like the Dad & Daughter Breakfast.
• Weatherstripping was added to exterior doors, and Kirkus has been hard at work pruning the crape myrtles.
• Trash service will transition to Trash Taxi starting June 1st.
• We also evaluated lighting across the property and are working with George on options for replacing the parking lot lighting.
• We cleared the church’s detention/retention pond, a necessary task to maintain proper drainage and prevent flooding during heavy rains. Please see the 1st image below
• Several members of our team also came together to help Kayleigh Morrison with her move from Buckhead to Cumberland. Please see the 2nd image below.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the current diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the Final edition of Sharing with the Saints in 2024. In this newsletter, we reflect on the last three months of impactful stewardship and dedicated service to our congregation. As always, we hope these updates encourage you and reaffirm God’s blessings upon our church.

Devotional
Text: Acts 13:16-41

“And we bring you the good news that what God promised to the fathers, this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus, as also it is written in the second Psalm, 'You are my Son, today I have begotten you." (vs 32-33)

In this lengthy passage of Paul's encouraging words to the people in the Pisidian Synagogue, we see a Biblically sound case for Jesus, the Messiah, promised of old. Note three things we will highlight in our examination of Paul's witness to the Jews:

• Paul does not deliver the "good news" by human logic or craftiness of tongue but by using the Scriptures
• Paul has a sound grasp of the Scriptures
• All of what Paul says is in order to point to Christ, and the forgiveness of sins

One thing that particularly strikes me as odd when talking about theological matters with other Christians is how often worldly logic is employed to define what certain scriptures mean or to cope with varying doctrines. When we speak and bear witness about the Lord, we do not need to invent clever phrases or nuanced thoughts. We have God's Holy, inerrant, and infallible Word, from Genesis to Revelation, to support our Faith and the Truth of His promises. Paul gives us a great example here in his exhortation to the Synagogue in Antioch in Pisidia with a brief summary of God's Covenant with Israel and how all of God's work with Israel was leading to this moment of the death and resurrection of Christ, and "to reject Jesus would be to repeat the rebellion."¹ There is no stooping to one's level with worldly discourse or watered-down language here but a plain deliverance of the Word of God, boldly proclaimed. Let this teach us how to give witness to the world.

Tagging onto the first point, we see a sound grasp of the Word of God in Paul's Sabbath speech. Paul, even before his conversion, is well versed in the Hebrew texts, but after his conversion and once he regains his sight, more clearly sees the Scriptures for what they are: "Good news, that what God promised to the fathers, this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus." Additionally,  the Holy Spirit is most surely working through this untimely Apostle; "do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you" (Matthew 10:10b-20). As Carl Robbins recently preached in our evening service during the joint Northwest Georgia Presbytery Worship service (October 27th), we cannot draw upon what we have not heard, "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." (John 14:26). Let this teach and remind us of the importance of consistent public, private, and family worship.

Lastly, the climax of Paul's address in the Synagogue —"that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses" (vs 38b-39). This audience knew the Scriptures given to their forefathers but did not understand them: "Look you, scoffers, be astounded and perish; for I am doing a work in your days, a work that you will not believe, even if one tells it to you."  (vs 41). Paul, ending his exhortation rightly ties all this to Christ: The chosen race of Israel, the exodus, the wandering, the land inheritance, the Judges, King David, the prophets—all this is pointing to the long-expected Messiah. The Prophet whose sandals John was unworthy to untie, our Great High Priest, the King of Kings. He is the cornerstone who the builders rejected and has thus become a stumbling block to the Jews, folly to the Gentiles. Let us strive to seek Christ, point to him in our witness, and sing praise to him, now and forevermore.

¹ Tabletalk Magazine, Wednesday, June 5th 2024

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
As we reflect on 2024, the Mercy Ministry received 70 assistance requests throughout the year. Of these, we were able to assist 44 cases, which represents 63% of the total. Unfortunately, 26 requests (37%) were either ineligible for support or required additional resources beyond what we could provide.

In addition to financial assistance, our service program continued to make a meaningful impact by helping members of our congregation with small tasks around their homes, particularly widows and those in need. This year, we completed a variety of projects, including yard work, minor repairs, and furniture moves for several families.

A Testament to God's Faithfulness
Most of our mercy cases involve families in very difficult circumstances. This December, we were presented with a particularly challenging situation.

A woman, whose husband had recently abandoned her and their three children, faced the heartbreaking reality of being evicted just before or after Christmas. Midway’s Mercy Ministry stepped in to help, but her need exceeded what we normally provide. Moreover, her landlord did not accept partial payments, adding to the urgency of the situation.

In God’s providence, we reached out to the diaconate at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, and they graciously donated the additional funds needed to cover the rent. Together, we were able to keep this family from being evicted for at least another month.

What a blessing it is when brothers and sisters from different churches can come together to meet the needs of others! In the past, we have also worked with Powder Springs Baptist Church and Johnson Ferry Baptist Church to provide support for those in crisis. Praise the Lord for the body of Christ and His provision through His people!

How Can You Help?
The Mercy Projects are supported by helping hands from across our church family, not just the Diaconate. Whether you’re handy with tools, strong enough to move furniture, or simply willing to lend your time, we’d love to have you involved. To join our Mercy Projects team and be notified of upcoming opportunities, please email mercyprojects@midwaypca.org. Additionally, you can ensure that even more needs are met in 2025 by donating to the Deacon Mercy Fund. Donations can be made via the Onrealm Giving app or by specifying "Deacon Mercy Fund" on your giving envelope. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of those in need within our church and community. Thank you for your continued support!

Through God’s grace and the faithful giving of His people, we can continue to minister to those in need, reflecting Christ’s love in both word and deed. Thank you for your prayers and support, and may God be glorified in all we do!

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Buildings & Grounds Committee, together with the entire Diaconate, diligently oversees the maintenance of our church facilities to ensure everything remains in excellent condition. Your input is invaluable, and we warmly invite you to reach out to a deacon if you spot anything that requires attention. Here are a few of our recent accomplishments:

• We installed the new motor for the exhaust fan men's restroom & completed the repairs to the girls' restroom toilet.
• We completed repairs to the boys' locker room stall.
• We ensured that paper products for school and church were ordered and restocked for the rest of the year.
• We replaced some light bulbs in the middle school & gymnasium, and we repaired a door in the school hallway.
• We asked Wilson to come out to finish service work and get the boiler up and running.
• We repaired the lock going out to the playground via a locksmith that we hired as well as repaired the doors by the cafeteria.
• Special thanks to Andrew Wagner, Hogan Gowder, Jack Pursley, and  Clark & Ezra Remington for helping with Kayleigh Morrison’s move. (See 1st image below).
• We appreciate the church members (Angel & Bob Tango, Kim Washington, Carolyn, Becky Lewis, Katie Keel, Jennifer Siewert, Patti Brandenburg, Donna Carter, and Ken Dewhurst) who were able to contribute their time and talents to some very much needed grounds beautification projects. What an energetic group showed up to help! We are very blessed! (See 2nd image below).

Deacon Election Update
We are grateful to God for His continued provision and guidance during the recent Deacon elections. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the parting Deacons, Matt Buehler, Bradley Fish, and Richard Hill, for their faithful service to the church. Your dedication, leadership, and countless hours of service have been a tremendous blessing to our congregation. We pray that God will continue to use you mightily in our church and bless you and your families abundantly.

We also extend a warm welcome to our incoming Deacons, Tom Biondolillo, Larry Eller, and Cliff Miller. We are excited to see how the Lord will work through you as you join the Diaconate in serving His church.

Please note that committee assignments will be updated before the end of January. We ask for your prayers as the Deacons transition into their new roles and continue the work of faithfully caring for the needs of the church and its members.

To God be the glory for raising faithful servants in His church!

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the current diaconate committee chairs listed below.

We are grateful to God for you! Happy New Year!

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the third edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2024. In this newsletter, we reflect on the last three months of impactful stewardship and dedicated service to our congregation. As always, we hope these updates encourage you and reaffirm God’s blessings upon our church.

Devotional
Text: Revelation 18: 3, 9, 15-17a

“For all nations have drunk the wine of her sexual immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed immorality with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown rich from the power of her luxurious living. (vs 3)

And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived in luxury with her, will weep and wail over her when they see the smoke of her burning. (vs 9)

The merchants of these wares, who gained wealth from her, will stand far off, in fear of her torment, weeping and mourning aloud, “Alas, alas, for the great city that was clothed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, with jewels, and with pearls! For in a single hour all this wealth has been laid waste.” (vs 15-17a)."

In the first quarter’s devotional earlier this year, we wrote about where we draw our hope & trust from. How tempting and stressful it can be to fall into the vanity of endless political discussions & debates when we sit on the eve of a presidential election?! The anxiety we may feel from events that unfold politically can be too much and ultimately distract us from God’s faithful Word. However, may this devotional serve to remind us that this nation and this world will pass away and thus echo the call made throughout Revelation; Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints.

Many of our dispensational friends and neighbors will likely talk about recent events and events unfolding currently as a sign of the end times. Who knows the day or the hour, for the Lord says “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mark 13:32). Rather, we are to “Be on guard, keep awake” (Mark 13:33). Pointing to where we are in the timeline of the Second Coming is not what this devotional seeks to provide. Instead, we are pointing out that we live in a sinful generation, in a sinful nation, and in a sinful world. Those whose names are not written before the foundation of the world in the Book of Life of the Lamb who was slain will worship this world and her deeds. It is those who fear disrupting the status quo of power, who remain subservient to merchants and the prevailing ways of commerce, and who view our call for perseverance amidst persecution as foolish are the most fearful during times of uncertainty.

We, like all Christians before us, are living in the middle of a spiritual battle. The temptation of placing our hope and trust in political rulers, commercial enterprise, personal pleasures & worldly relationships is a temptation that all of us face daily. As Dr. Hall recently exhorted to us in his sermon wrapping up Mark 13, we are to always live on guard in full hope of meeting our Creator. We should be wary of long-term planning. We should be in regular communion with our Lord. And we should not be idle—let us labor in divine pursuits—Watch/Pray/Work! For God has revealed to us through his Son, by his Spirit, and through his Word, his plan for the fullness of time—that we should be fellow heirs and partakers of the promise in Jesus Christ!

Let us be reminded by the Apostle Peter that despite the various trials we will be grieved by here on this earth, we are born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this, you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:3-9.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
In the second quarter of 2024, we received 20 assistance requests and were able to support 9 of them, which represents approximately 45% of the total cases. Unfortunately, the remaining 55% of the requests were ineligible for support or required additional funds for assistance. Furthermore, through our service program, which offers help with small tasks around the homes of members of our church, particularly widows, we were able to assist three members with projects in their homes. If you or someone you know could benefit from this service, please contact us at mercyprojects@midwaypca.org.

Did you know?
The Mercy Projects is comprised of helping hands from all across our church, not just the Diaconate. If anyone can help with these projects, please email mercyprojects@midwaypca.org to be added to the distribution list as various projects and needs arise. These needs can vary from moving furniture for a family in need to clearing the yard for a widow to helping beautify our church building & grounds.

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Building & Grounds Committee, along with all the Deacons, continuously monitors our buildings and grounds to ensure everything is in good condition. We greatly value your feedback and encourage you to contact a deacon if you notice anything that needs attention. Here are some of our recent achievements:

• Repaired and stopped a leak in the boys’ middle school locker room.
• Fixed the urinal in the men’s main hallway bathroom.
• Terry Christmas assisted with painting the hallway and sealing the window on the east side of the Narthex.
• Our service company, Trane, repaired the sanctuary’s air conditioning, while Wilson Air fixed the noisy air handler near the pastors’ offices.
• Joe cut back dead shrubs, trimmed around the property, and repaired the two exit doors by the cafeteria.
• Joe and Matt cleared the drainage areas around 87 gutter downspouts.
• We want to give special thanks to Elder Scott Keesee for ordering and installing 3 signs for our church. See the image below.

Lastly, we had asked for your prayers for our facilities manager, Dan Poley. We are happy to report that he has recovered and is doing well. Dan is grateful for all your prayers.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the second edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2024. In this newsletter, we reflect on the first three months of impactful stewardship and dedicated service to our congregation. Through these updates, we hope to encourage you and affirm God's blessings on our church.

Devotional
Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:14

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.

Paul ends his first letter to the church in Thessalonica with a series of exhortations & commands that all churches would do well to pay attention to today. One that is frequently memorized and displayed in homes is verses 16-18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances…” but before he writes to us about these spiritually grounding instructions for ourselves, he gives us instructions on what and how to help others—in our church and our homes. We see four clearly stated instructions:

1. Admonish the idle.
2. Encourage the fainthearted.
3. Help the weak.
4. Be patient with them all.

Admonish the Idle
When admonishing, or reprimanding, we see love being carried out. It can be as simple as a warning or as exacting as discipline. “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives” (Proverbs 3:11-12).
Who are the idle? For the original audience of Paul’s letter, it was those among them relying on others for food and financial support, selfishly exploiting the charity of others in the church. Thus, in Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians, we read a warning against idleness: “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thess. 3:10b).
Are we idle in our work? Idle in our faith? Are our children idle or are we idle to our children? James tells us our faith should be evidenced by our work “Show me your faith apart from your works and I will show you my faith by my works… For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead” (James 2:18, 26).

Encourage the Fainthearted
The command here is to encourage not to sympathize. Today we are inundated with Christian sympathy and that is good in specific situations but we more often need to encourage and be encouraged. We live in a society that has warmly embraced defeat and has negative outlooks on seemingly all things, albeit worldly things. Sympathy is used for situations that are done, over, and final. But we are a church militant, with the hope of being a church triumphant. Whatever setback, challenge, trial, or tribulation we experience as God’s chosen heirs is more of a halftime moment than a post-game sympathy from a father. “Say to those who have an anxious heart, ‘Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you” (Isaiah 35:4).

Help the Weak
Midway has been blessed with a diaconate and church body willing and able to help those in our church and community (and world) with assistance in a myriad of ways: spiritually, financially, giving of time & labor & food, funds for surgeries, and medical care in India and throughout. In James’ letter, he tells us “Religion that is pure & undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans & widows in their affliction” (1:27), in essence, to help & encourage those who are unable to help themselves. Note that the Word doesn’t tell orphans and widows what Paul wrote to the Thessalonian free-loaders who can work but don’t. Paul in addressing the Ephesian elders says “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive,’” (Acts 20:35).

Be Patient with them All
Patience is a virtue! My father told me this millions of times, clearly seeing my youthful haste. As a young father personally, patience is very difficult and doesn’t seem to get much easier with age. But consider what we see in Paul’s description of love to the Corinthian church: “Love is patient and kind;” (13:4) the very first thing we read about love is that it is patient. Consider your children (or as a child), the instruction or discipline given, the encouragement poured into a sad or struggling child, the help and support the way child so desperately needs. After all such energy we pour into our children, we are patient with them because we love them. Are we as the bride of Christ much different? If we are to endure and remain steadfast for the crown of life, is it too much a burden to be patient for the Lord’s work in those in our flock? Our faith ought to be reflected by our patience. For we should never lose sight that “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth” (1 Cor 3:6). May we strive in prayer and in action to serve one another more as a church body, and to build up our church to love to and to good works, encouraging one another more and more!

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
In Q1-2024, we handled 17 cases, assisting 10 of them, which accounts for about 58% of the requests. The remaining 41% either did not follow through or were ineligible for support. Additionally, we refreshed our "2 Men for 2 Hours" program, which helps widows in our church with small tasks around their homes. Three members have already benefited from this program light yard work and maintenance at their houses.We encourage anyone in need of this service to contact us at mercyprojects@midwaypca.org.



Did you know?
The Mercy Projects is comprised of helping hands from all across our church, not just the Diaconate. If anyone can help with these projects, please email mercyprojects@midwaypca.org to be added to the distribution list as various projects and needs arise. These needs can vary from moving furniture for a family in need to clearing the yard for a widow to helping beautify our church building & grounds.

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Building & Grounds Committee, together with all the Deacons, continuously monitors the buildings and grounds for any issues. We highly value your input and encourage you to reach out if you notice anything that needs attention. Please feel free to contact a deacon to report any concerns. Here’s a snapshot of our recent achievements:

• Completed a major roof repair thanks to the Lord’s provision through our well-established Long Term Building Maintenance Fund and our insurance, which covered the cost without needing additional funding. (Please see picture below):

• Built and installed a shelf for pool table accessories, hung pictures, mounted cue and table racks, repaired and touched up walls, replaced light bulbs, investigated the non-working overhead projector, repaired a broken table, and installed a door kick-down.
• Replaced light bulbs, touched up walls, cleaned the storage room by the 4th grade, and replaced light bulbs for the school.
• Built and installed a rack for gym hoops, repaired padding on the basketball backboard, installed door seals to prevent mouse entry, ordered and stocked paper goods, removed balls from the roof, unclogged toilets, attempted to repair the boys' locker room door closer (will need replacement), and replaced light bulbs and repaired teachers' lecterns.
• Power-scrubbed the entire men's bathroom floor, restocked paper goods, replaced light bulbs in various areas, reattached the downspout outside the 87 Sanctuary, assisted Cheryl and Judy with cleaning the choir closet, cleaned carpet stains, adjusted the ice maker, helped with cleaning due to Jean's illness, and conducted a property walk-around for maintenance.
• Performed a routine inspection and filter replacement via our service company Trane AC, with no apparent issues.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Welcome to the 1st edition of "Sharing with the Saints" in 2024. In this newsletter, we reflect on the last 3 months of impactful stewardship of our resources and diligent service to our congregation. Through these updates, we aim to provide you with encouragement and confidence in God's blessings to our church.

Devotional
Text: Psalm 146: 3-7

Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. 4 When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day, his plans perish. 5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, 6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever; 7 who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry.

As we inch deeper into 2024, we get deeper into the noise and chaos of a Federal election. For many, this can cause fear, uncertainty, and even unrest. Soon, if not already, ads will air depicting the other candidate as frivolous, careless, misguided, dishonest, and evil. When speaking with like-minded friends politically, the conversation might sound something like this: “If he wins, that’s the end of the country” or “If we don’t win this, we’ll be left with no choice...”

While the issues at stake are certainly important, and we should absolutely be involved with the democratic process about to unfold, let us ask ourselves, what is our hope? Something that has been a constant prayer in our household comes from the 1st Q&A of the Heidelberg Catechism: “What is your only comfort in life and death?” I’ll let you search the answer on your own terms if you don’t already know it, for the answer is worth searching for and praying on, however, we’ve shared the ending here: “Because I belong to him, Christ by his Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him.” Our trust is not in princes—Praise be to God! We have a salvation that is from the Creator, not the created. We have a God who WILL execute justice and feed the hungry. Our life on this earth is limited with nothing guaranteed, but our life to come is guaranteed, an eternal life assured by Jesus, the guarantor of a better covenant!

We certainly should pray for our elected and non-elected officials, however hard it may be at times (1 Timothy 1:1-3). It is good that we have rulers who do not infringe upon our worship & fellowship, and we ought to give praise to God for this. However, as I listened to Vijay Raju and Jonathan & Rebekah who are serving the Great Commission in India and Lebanon respectively, I was reminded that MOST of the world does not get to enjoy the peace and comfort we get to in gathering together on the Sabbath and publicly worshiping our Risen Savior. Rather, we are reminded by Peter “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you… But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed…Therefore, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.” (1 Peter 4:12-13 &19). Therefore, let us draw our strength and hope, politically and spiritually, not from mortal men, not from political promises or worldly designs, but from the hope of our Great High Priest. “For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.” (2 Corinthians 5:1,5). Let us rest assured, regardless of political outcomes that our help is the God of Jacob…who made heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
Our ministry is dedicated to honoring God and obeying Jesus's teachings to extend aid to those in need while fulfilling the deacon's duties outlined in the PCA Book of Church Order. It is both our honor and privilege to serve our congregation and community with the gifts bestowed upon us. In 2023, we handled a total of 44 cases, with 27 in the first three quarters and 17 in the final quarter. Notably, approximately 30% of these cases were not approved, often due to prior assistance reaching our annual limit.

Did you know?
The Mercy Projects is comprised of helping hands from all across our church, not just the Diaconate. Anyone can volunteer too help with these projects, please email mercyprojects@midwaypca.org to be added to the distribution list as various projects and needs arise. These needs can vary from moving furniture for a family in need to clearing the yard for a widow to helping beautify our church building & grounds. We enjoyed the fellowship of the young and wise alike on Saturday February 24th as the detention pond at the far end of the property was cleared of overgrowth, see the images below in the building and grounds section. Please add your name to the distribution list and see how you can be a part of serving others with your brothers & sisters in Christ. Finally, we humbly request your prayers for adequate funding and divine wisdom in our decision-making processes.

Building and Grounds Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The Building & Grounds Committee, along with all the Deacons, continually monitors the buildings and grounds for issues. We value your input and encourage you to reach out if you observe anything requiring attention. Please don't hesitate to contact a deacon to report any concerns. Here's a snapshot of our recent achievements:

• Completed various maintenance tasks at the school, including light bulb replacements, sink drain fixes, library hole patching, science cabinet repairs, and janitorial supply management.
• Undertook significant projects such as replacing the organ's sump pump, conducting boiler service, performing youth room maintenance, and addressing lighting issues in the downstairs hall and microphone repairs in the 1987 Sanctuary.
• We planned a workday to clear the retention pond area, ensuring substantial cost savings for the church. We will like to say a big thank you to the men who helped to perform this work. Check out images of their work below.

Here are some of our ongoing projects:

• Secured insurance coverage for hail damage to the 2009 Sanctuary roof and is slated for a new roof installation in early April 2024.
• Currently gathering quotes for repainting the hallway from the 1987 building to the 2009 Sanctuary.
• Continuously tending to overgrown shrubs and evaluating planting areas for necessary replanting during the spring and summer seasons.

Lastly, we extend our gratitude to our dedicated facilities manager, Dan Poley, who tirelessly ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations for both the church and the school. If you see Dan, please take a moment to thank him for his hard work!

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

Our church has been blessed with immense mercy from God, enriching us in countless ways. In this Month of Thanksgiving, we're deeply thankful for His overflowing grace. This edition kicks off with a devotional from our Co-Editor, Charles Hagan, and features service reports highlighting the impactful work across different diaconal ministries.

Devotional
Text: Proverbs 23:17-18
Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the fear of the Lord all the day. Surely there is a future and your hope will not be cut off.

Someone told me recently that the part of your brain that triggers thankfulness & gratitude is the same part of the brain that triggers envy & jealousy.  It is suggested that these emotions cannot coexist simultaneously; thus the brain function is either immersed in a state of sin or gratitude. As we approach Thanksgiving and embark on the Advent season, we may find ourselves gathered around the dinner table, prompted to express our thankfulness and gratitude, all the while observing the pervasive pursuit of material wealth and worldly success. In this era, escaping the reminders of worldly prosperity and society's interpretation of success seems nearly impossible. We often find ourselves comparing our lives to those of professional athletes, cultural celebrities, contemplating what could have been and thinking "why not me?!" This comparison may extend to our interactions with co-workers, managers, friends, and neighbors—leading us to question why we haven't received certain gifts, breaks, opportunities or promotions. This constant state of being plugged in too often leads to our thankfulness being unplugged. While we ponder the apparent success of worldly and unbelieving individuals, we may unknowingly deprive the Lord of the thanks He rightfully deserves (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

It is essential to redirect our focus and recognize the blessings within our visible Church at Midway. Throughout the year, we've witnessed remarkable events, such as the return of the Reformation Worship Conference with influential speakers and meaningful fellowship with fellow saints from across the nation and the globe. We welcome numerous visitors weekly, and our Mercy committee has shared the Gospel and provided assistance to many in need throughout our community. We've celebrated recoveries from illnesses, welcomed new members, witnessed substantial improvements to our buildings and grounds, observed the flourishing of our youth programs, and maintained support for approximately 27 missionaries worldwide. Above all, we express gratitude for the dedicated teaching elders who faithfully preach the Word, fostering peace & fellowship among our community of believers. We are thankful for continued and improved health, spiritual nourishment, and our place in West Cobb and beyond.

In conclusion, we are reminded Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Psalm 37 adds The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their heritage will remain forever; they are not put to shame in evil times; in the days of famine they have abundance (18-19). In gratitude, let us reflect on the greatness of our God—the One who led Israel out of captivity, parted the Red Sea, and intervened on behalf of His people. Our God has rescued us from the domain of darkness, ushering us to the kingdom of His beloved Son. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire (Heb 12:28-29).

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
Thanks to God's grace, the Mercy Committee handled 12 cases in the third quarter of 2023, bringing our total for the year to approximately 27 cases. We're continuously seeking individuals to assist with special projects. As mentioned in our note, last quarter, many of our cases are with single mothers, so it would be very helpful if we could get experienced women who can follow up with them to assist them. To sign up, reach out to sammy.mitchell@gmail.com. In addition to volunteering with us, please pray for wisdom for the committee on the right way to handle all circumstances.

Building and Grounds (B&G) Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The B&G committee is responsible for the care and maintenance of the church property. While we achieved a lot in the third quarter of 2023, here are some of the key updates:

• We completed various school repairs and requests including middle school such as:
  • The Installation of  2 portable AC units in 4th-grade classrooms purchased by the school.
  • The repair of the AC units in the gymnasium
  • Ensured the 1908 Sanctuary was clean because the children wait there during car rider pick-up.
• We completed these church repairs:
  • Repaired Air Conditioner Pulley above Pastor Hall’s office.
  • Cut down and cleaned up a large tree branch on the cemetery drive and small tree debris around the exterior.
  • Completed Cilas’ office repair
  • Replaced ceiling tiles where damaged.
  • Repaired ice machine.
  • Treated multiple fire ants in the backfield and around the building.
  • Cleaned carpets in the 1987 Sanctuary and men’s bible study room.
  • Cleaned up the buses, pulled weeds, and cleaned windows with the Youth Ministry. Special thanks to them, please see the images below.

MCCS School Committee Update (David Jackson)
In our last newsletter, we mentioned the committee's efforts to update the school's website. This update is aimed at making sure that our values are effectively conveyed to both prospective and current parents and students. We're thrilled to announce that the new website is now live – please take a look at it by visiting www.midwayschool.org. We are grateful for the school’s staff, students, and their parents, and we are committed to praying for them. Please pray that the Lord would continue to use the school as a ministry that would not simply develop students academically, but develop them spiritually in an environment that seeks to set Christ at the center.

Risk Management Committee (Matt Buehler)
This summer we moved the insurance coverage of the church and school to Brotherhood Mutual, while also enhancing and adding several coverages. This netted over $10,000 of realized savings. We are also currently working on an electronic logging system to ensure better accountability on how our buses are used. We should have more details about this by the next newsletter. We have also been able to recruit more members onto the security team and conducted further training for all those serving on the security detail.  We are thankful to have men willing to serve and for the ability to train for a variety of rare events. Please continue to pray for the Church’s protection and as the world outside continues to become more hostile and unpredictable.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors

Sharing with the Saints (Rom. 12:13)
Author: Midway Diaconate

We are excited to bring back the diaconate newsletter after almost a year since its last publication. In this issue, we will start with a devotional from one of our Co-Editors, Charles Hagan, and will provide service reports from several of our diaconal ministries.

Devotional
Text: Mark 4:1-20
Earlier in the year, Dr. Hall preached on the Parable of the Sower, which many might refer to as the parable of the soils. One thing to love about this parable is that our Saviour breaks this down into a Parable for Dummies in verses 13-20 since many indeed will "see but not perceive, and may hear but not understand."  In this first parable presented to us in Mark's Gospel, we read of a sower spreading seed (God's word, v.14) that falls onto four different types of soil. We learned of four different types of soils, or hearts/minds as taught in the April sermon: A Hard Heart, Shallow Heart, Divided Heart, and ready Heart. Or in the sense of a mind, Dr. Hall relates to a Closed Mind, Confused Mind, Cluttered Mind, and cultivated Mind. "But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold, and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." The Apostle Paul writes in 1st Corinthians "So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth" (3:7), so we should find great comfort that the growth is not of our own work and design but God's. As we hear the Word of God each week as planted and watered by our elders in sermons, by heads of households in our family worship, and in our private devotions, let us pray and rely on the Lord for Ready Hearts and cultivated Minds. Let us pray for God to soften our hearts and to give growth to us, our homes, our church, and throughout the world.

Mercy Ministry Update (Sammy Mitchell)
The Mercy Committee continues to help meet the urgent material needs of our community as we have been able to serve about 15 cases this year. This year we were also able to assist in an international case where a child in India needed funding for surgery, and we were able to help with the funds. The surgery has been performed and the child is now recovering to the glory of God, please see her images below.

We are always on the lookout for folks to help with special projects. Many of our cases are single mothers, so it would be very helpful if we could get experienced women that can follow up with them to assist them. To sign up, reach out to sammymitchell@gmail.com. In addition to volunteering with us, please pray:

1. For wisdom for the committee, as we are not always sure of the right way to handle some circumstances because of the complexity of some situations.
2. For an increase in contributions from the congregation toward our ministry.

MCCS School Committee Update (David Jackson)
The MCCS school committee has been working since the last quarter to address the school’s budget, technology, the development of a new school website, and security. In response to the fatal incident that occurred at the Christian School in Nashville on March 27, 2023, a joint sub-committee comprised of individuals from the school committee, and the Diaconate Risk Management & Security committee was created to review the status of our current security procedures and protocols to ensure the safety of our students and staff. Some of the recommendations from them have been implemented such as training our church admin on emergency lockdown procedures as well as obtaining the help of an off-duty police officer to perform a security audit on the property. Policies for our automated doors, as well as an assessment of permissions and responsibilities, were also reviewed to ensure proper access control and issue resolution.

The committee has also been working to update the school’s website, to ensure that it communicates our values to prospective parents and students. The new website should be released this month. We are grateful for the school’s staff, students, and their parents, and we are committed to praying for them in addition to all that we intend to achieve this year. Please pray that the Lord would continue to use the school as a ministry that would not simply develop students academically, but develop them spiritually in an environment that seeks to set Christ at the center.

Building and Grounds (B&G) Committee Update (Joe Hash)
The B&G committee cares for and maintains the church property. We have been busy with updates and church maintenance and here are some highlights from the beginning of the year.

1. We will start by expressing gratitude for George Taylor's many years of dedicated & faithful service. Following his retirement in March, we brought on board a new Facilities Manager named Dan Poley, who boasts 30 years of experience as a handyman. We appreciate the fact that Dan had the opportunity to shadow George for a week, allowing him to become acquainted with his new role.
2. We passed our backflow inspection/test.
3. We completed approved paint jobs in the school and the 1987 Sanctuary building.
4. We rebuilt and reinstalled our lift station pump motor
5. We completed our fire protection inspection and replaced a couple of fire extinguishers.
6. We completed all the A/C tuneups via Wilson, our A/C vendor.
7. We completed the replacement of the A/C heating package unit for the 1905 building.
8. Recently cleaned up some shrubs around our Midway property with the help of fellow deacons. Please see the images below.

Conclusion
As your deacons, it is our delight and joy to serve you in Christ. If you need help or would like to volunteer in some way to serve our church family, then please do not hesitate to contact any of the diaconate committee chairs listed below.

In Christ,
Deacons Charles Hagan & Dami Adeoye, Editors