Well On The Road To Recovery!

Wednesday was a huge day for me and my broken ankle!

This was my first post-op visit with my surgeon. We arrived at his office and I had to have my original cast/splint removed. This was a very tender procedure, the cotton was stuck to my leg because of the stuff they cleaned my leg with, on top of that my leg was greenish yellow. The cleaning process was rubbing alcohol. Very cold and it felt GREAT!

After the cleaning it was time to remove my staples. The final count was 6 staples on the inside of my ankle and 15 on the outside. I'm not going to lie to you the staple removing was painful. I felt like I was getting stung by bee's - I hate that feeling!

After the staples I was on my was to x-ray. That was not too bad just uncomfortable. Why is it the x-ray tech always want you to put your self in positions that if you could manage to get into you would not need an x-ray???? One of the deep questions of life!

Next was the meeting with my Doctor. I was shown my x-rays and was told that my leg was healing so well that the breaks were hard to locate. My Doctor had to actually point them out to me. Part of the reason for this was the great work of my Doctor and lots of screws, pins and a plate. Two big screws in the large leg bone and a plate with six smaller screws and pins. See the photos and if you click on them I think they will enlarge.

Bottom line was that I was NOT given a plaster cast but a WALKING BOOT. Thereby proving that my healing is moving forward and by my next visit in January I'm to be walking without and assistance of my walker or crutches. Oh, Yea, I can drive! I feel almost human again.

Stay Tuned!

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Live From Clear Lake

Things are getting better here, I think!

Last Friday I got to have a play date with couple of friends. One called and asked if I could go to "Denny's" for coffee if he would pick me up. Lynn said YES & Praise The Lord! I'm thinking she was just glad to get rid of me for a while. I had a great time out on the town (at Denny's?!) and returned around noon. I was worn out but did have fun!

I have been able to get to some of the kids home basketball games. They are doing very well.

Sunday found me preaching at our church. The set-up was a bit different with me sitting in a chair with a table in front of me. It was a bit weird at the beginning but became very comfortable; it was kind of like a fireside chat. And NO I did not flip out of my chair while preaching as some had postulated!

I have my first post-op Doctors visit on Wednesday, I'll keep you posted as to what the next few weeks will hold.

Until then,

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Not So Quick Update - Shotgun #1

Well, by now most of you already know that I fell last Tuesday (12/4/2007) while deer hunting and broke both bones in my leg just above my ankle. That is the short version, here are the details:


I arrived at the farm where I hunt just before 9 AM after I drove a bus route and proceeded to put on the many layers of clothing needed to sustain warmth while sitting in a tree stand. That being accomplished I started to walk toward my stand. I got about 20 yards from my car when my right foot slipped on the ice. Trying to maintain my balance I torqued my body to the right and felt my left ankle literally explode!

Falling to the ground with a loaded firearm is not for the faint of heart! You must protect the gun and keep it pointed in a safe direction. After hitting the ground, pushing the gun away and taking inventory of any other physical damage I realized that other than my ankle I was in good shape. And yes, I know that round is a shape!

My next thought was that I needed two things: help & warmth. I always carry my cell phone with my when hunting so I called Lynn and told her to call 911 and get me some help because I was in serious trouble. Next I began crawling on my right side the 20 yards back toward my car where I knew the engine would still be warm and I could try to ease under the front end of the car for warmth.

After what seemed like forever, Philip arrived. He heard Lynn talking to me and jumped into our van and drove out to help me. He took care of my gun and other hunting equipment, making sure that it was stored properly, but most importantly he was there for me to talk to, that helped me to remain calm!

Mason City Fire Rescue arrived and began to get me ready for transport. Once on the gurney, the medics started walking toward the rescue unit. One of the medics said "Is the truck moving?" The answer was yes! Having parked on an incline, on pure ice, as we approached the truck it was slowly sliding away from us down the hill! Quickly securing the unit and loading me in we were on our way to the hospital in Mason City.

At the hospital it was determined that I was going to need surgery to properly set and repair my leg/ankle. I as of yet have no details as to the number of plates, screws & pins used to fix me up, hopefully I'll know more after my appointment with my surgeon in a couple of weeks.

That is the basic story ... but if you know me, there are a number of funny parts that I left out or this post would be just too long. I'll post more stories in the very near future!

Thanks for all of your notes and prayers!

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Quick Update - Shotgun #1

Saturday was the beginning of the first shotgun deer season in Iowa. I hit the deer stand at about 6 AM and it began snowing/sleeting/freezing rain at about 6:43.

By 9 AM I was covered in 2 inches of "Wintery Mix" and quite miserable! I had not seen one deer in 3 hours and with the weather turning very bad I chose to head in ands wait to see what the afternoon might bring.

The afternoon brought even more "Wintery Mix" with the addition of rain and heavy icing. No way was I heading back out.

More to come........

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

So Much To Be Thankful For!

Wow, What a wild few days!

Thursday of course was Thanksgiving Day and that included a flying trip trip to Des Moines. We left Clear Lake at about 7 AM and arrived at my Mom and Dads at about 9:30 AM following a stop in Ankeny to hook up with Daniel and Maggie.

We all arrived at my folks to find that we were not the first one's to arrive. Soon the others began to file in, in short order . It was a great crowd, all the siblings were there except my big bro (I missed your help w/ the turkey!).

Once again my Mom outdid her self with the turkey. It was again perfection! Everything else that was great as well and it was the usual Thanksgiving spread. We ate our meal at about 12 noon, and everyone was stuffed like we were the bird!

After a little football and conversation the exodus began and slowly the family began to leave for other celebrations. The Clear Lake contingency pulled out around 3:00 and stopped again in Ankeny to pick up Lynn's Mom and bring her to Clear Lake for the rest of the holiday weekend. We got home in time to head over to a friends home and watched the film "Amazing Grace". A great movie that I really enjoyed it ... I would recommend it to you!

Friday for some was a day for shopping or relaxing or in the case of my running buddies in North Iowa - a great day for hunting! For me Friday was another day in the office because I was to drive that afternoon to Iowa Falls for a basketball scrimmage and I wanted to spend a bit more time in the study so no shopping, no hunting.

I picked up my bus at about 2 PM and fueled up and left for Iowa Falls at 2:30. Upon arrival in Iowa Falls I met up with Pastor Hill and went out for coffee then back to the High School to watch the scrimmage. When the scrimmage was over I returned to my bus only to find that because the alternator was shot the bus was DOA! I had to call for someone to drive down to get us and what was a quick trip to Iowa Falls turned into an all evening albatross! We finally got home around 9 PM. What a LONG DAY!

Saturday found our family driving to Southwest Iowa for the wedding of a family friend. Long trip, almost four hours both ways but worth every minute to spend time with our friends. The wedding was very nice and the bride was beautiful. I really enjoy getting to see our friend in the Cumberland/Massena area. We got home around 8:30 in the evening got all settled in to watch another movie only to have the electric go out for about 2 hours! A perfect ending to a crazy day!

Enough for now,
Pastor Steve

Archery Season - Part 2: He Shoots, He Scores

Today at 3:33 PM my archery season came to a screeching halt when I arrowed a really nice 8 point buck.

This is the biggest deer I have ever harvested and the special kicker is that I took it with my bow.

I spotted the deer coming across a picked soybean field at about 300 yards out. The deer came in and presented me with a 20 yard broadside shot. The gory details are that I got a lung shot and which left a good trail, easy to follow. The deer went about 150 yards before piling up in some brush.

Hunting the rut ... nothing could be better! I saw 4 shooter bucks on Thursday afternoon and I knew the deer where in the area I'm just thankful that I had the opportunity to take a deer of this caliber! Praise the Lord!

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Faulty Theology Leads To Faulty Thinking

One of the many blog I read is titled "The World From Our Window". One of three men who regularly contribute to this blog is Mike Hess. He wrote this:

"The statistics are read over and over to us again - 3,000 churches closing their doors each year, armies of pastors leaving the ministry each year either due to sin, spiritual burnout or church negligence. Parishioners not sharing their faith with their neighbors, being anemic with their knowledge of Scripture, wanting the church to adopt the philosophy of "relevance", turning to secular and unbiblical secular psychology to diagnose their sin problems and eventually relying on meds and newfangled ideas concerning human behavior instead of dealing with the core issue of sin. Problems are there and it is not difficult to take notice. What is happening? Where did we go wrong?

For starters let me just say that all is not lost. The resurgence of [edit] young fundamentalists/evangelicals has had an enormous impact on a younger generation being absolutely convinced about the sufficiency and authority of Scripture and the absolute sovereignty of God. Many have also become disillusioned with the "felt needs" and "self-esteem" approach to church programs that mislead others into thinking that they are in need of a greater self-image and a greater self-worth.

However, many of the weaknesses that we see today in the lives of the average evangelical American church goer is not a result of fewer programs, less contemporary music or their felt needs being neglected. I would submit that most of this is the natural result of a solid theological ground work not being laid in the believer's life.

ALL OF LIFE IS CENTERED ON THEOLOGY!!! What we believe about God is essentially the most significant aspect of our lives. That alone is the core of who we are. Not our possessions, charisma, social standing or influence. Hence, when we neglect this all important subject, then we naturally neglect the most instrumental tool in growing our people in Christ and having them "rooted and built up in Him".

A poor theology is evident on how a Christian handles the problems of life. A poor theology is exposed in how many believers today look for churches - their needs being looked at first instead of their gifts being given and offered to a local body of believers. A poor theology is reflected in a marriage where the roles of both husband and wife are confused and misplaced. A poor theology becomes evident when young people have the idea that fun is a means of becoming godly and will somehow prepare them for the inevitable trials that life will bring their way. A poor theology is buying into the mindset that a secular based (with Christian icing) 12 Step program can replace the biblical model of progressive sanctification that depends on the Holy Spirits guidance and power and the absolute sufficiency of God's Word.

All of this to say that we need to be encouraged to NOT run from God-centered theology and somehow keep that for the intellectually qualified. No, this is for EVERYONE! Get yourself a good systematic theology. Make it a part of your devotional life and let a God-centered theology give you an unquenchable thirst for God Himself."

Pastor Steve says:

Biblical Christianity is not something that we pull out on Sunday and stow away the rest of the week. If you claim the name of Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, that relationship MUST impact every aspect, every moment of your lives.

I have been challenging the folks in our church that we must work out our theology to its logical conclusion. So many people have theology that, taken to it's logical conclusion, is nothing but a house of cards. It falls apart and leaves them empty. Trial and tragedy come into their lives and there theology tells them that they don't have enough faith or its bad karma or just offer it up for penitence. Where is the hope in that?

Faulty theology leads to faulty thinking. What say you?

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Bus Driver Training

Last week I was required, by State law, to attend a 3 hour Annual Training for School Bus Drivers. It was your standard watch a video, discuss as a group and then walk through a test over the material.

Here are a few of the questions that we had to try to figure out:

1. TRUE or FALSE If the gates remain down after a train passes through a railroad crossing with more that one set of tracks, it is a malfunction and you can safely go around the gates?

2. TRUE or FALSE Trains have steering wheels, so they can swerve to get out of your way.

3. TRUE or FALSE Kids pushing your buttons can be a major safety problem.

4. TRUE or FALSE You should always steer clear of road rage.

5. TRUE or FALSE The shape and color of a sign have nothing to do with the information that the sign is trying to provide to the driver.

6.TRUE or FALSE Milepost markers can be a handy reference if your bus breaks down.

7. TRUE or FALSE Exhaust fumes all vehicles carry major health risks, especially for children.

I found some of these to be funny and others to be just obvious. Does the average person really believe that trains have steering wheels? If so, we're in deeper trouble than I thought!

Pastor Steve

It's Offical - Susan PASSED Drivers Ed.

Friday evening Susan had her final drive time and received her completion certificate and it said she passed drivers education.

I rode with her to her final drive time and she did a very good job!

I'm very proud of her!

Pastor Steve

A Note From My Brother & An Update For You

I received a note today from my brother in Florida informing me that I'm not blogging enough.
Well excuuuuuuuuuse me!

Ok the truth be told I do leave too many days between my blogs and I will try try do better.

In the spirit of blogging a bit more ....

Archery season is in full swing in Iowa and I have been out a few times. As of today I've not harvested my deer but I did take a nice sapling. I had a real nice 6 point buck come in and I just flat peaked after releasing my arrow.

In golf you must keep your head down as you swing through the ball, no "peeking" to see where you ball is going. In archery you must hold on your target until the arrow impacts, even the slightest movement or "peek" will cause the arrow to fly erratically. So I nailed a sapling!

In other news Amy and Susan attend a formal dinner, called the Black Tie Event, in the Des Moines area sponsored by the Iowa Association of Regular Baptist Churches Youth Committee. There were about 120 teens from all over the state and they enjoyed a formal dinner and then a number of activities. From all reports, everyone had a great time!

Philip did not go to the Black Tie Event, he had the opportunity to go to the Scholarship Weekend at Faith Baptist Bible College. The college is awarding about $75, 000 to the incoming freshman class. We are waiting to see if he will receive a reward letter. The weekend involved a number of interviews as well as some general sessions with all of the kids together.

That ought to bring you up to date. Until the next time...

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

And We're Done

The Ventura Vikings bowed out of the play offs last night at the hands of the Armstrong/Ringstead Mustangs. Bowed out seems almost too mild, perhaps "given the bums rush" would be a better description!

You could blame it on any number of factors, a very physical final season game and a very short turn around. Boys who were just flat tired, sore and emotional shot. A team who just was not prepared for the juggernaut that was the A/R Mustangs.

But the best commentary was given by our Mason City Globe Gazette: "It didn’t take Armstrong-Ringsted long to turn the lights out both literally and figuratively on Ventura in a first round eight-man playoff game Tuesday night.

The Mustangs (9-1) scored 21 first quarter points on their way to a 55-20 win.

Armstrong-Ringsted avenged a 21-13 loss to Ventura (8-2) from earlier in the season.

“They were a different team,” Ventura coach Mike Horstman said of Armstrong-Ringsted. “We knew they’d make some adjustments against us, but we didn’t think we wouldn’t be able to run the football at all.”

Armstrong-Ringsted completely shut down Ventura’s offense in the first half, holding the Vikings without a first down until the two minute, 55 second mark of the second quarter.

“The offensive line wasn’t getting a lot of great blocks, and they were getting through,” Horstman said. “When you can’t run, it makes you one-dimensional and then they were able to go after the quarterback.”"

The bottom line is that the Ventura Vikings were just beaten by a better team.

Now, as for the Vikings and their overall season ... CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

These boys took a program that was very ones beating pole and won 8 straight games this season . These boys got to the playoffs for the first time since 1989.

The Ventura Vikings finished this season 8-2! Boys, you have nothing to hang your heads about, be thankful for the opportunities this year afforded you!

Pastor Steve

Not What We Had Scripted

I'm a bit behind on the update but you know how it is.

The Ventura Vikings suffered their first loss of their season last Thursday night at the hands of the NE Hamilton Trojans. The final score was 56-24.

The Vikings played the worst game of their season. 7 turnovers of which 4 of 5 fumbles lead to short field touchdowns and one interception was returned for a touchdown as well. When you spot a team 5 touchdowns you've created a hole that is very difficult to climb out of!

The 8 man playoffs begin this Tuesday and has Ventura heading to Armstrong/Ringstead; a team that we defeated in the regular season.

More to come!

Pastor Steve

Ventura Vikings Are 8-0

The Ventura Vikings are 8-0 in their quest for an Iowa 8 Man football title.

Last Friday evening the Vikings played the team from Clarksville and put a 71 to 0 beat down on them. But perhaps the best moment of the night was late in the 4 quarter when one PHILIP COX caught a pass on about the 5 yard line, juked the defender and walked into the end zone for the final touchdown in the final regular season home game of his senior year!

Huge congratulation to Philip and to the Vikings of Ventura! BTW, Philip is #16 in the picture.

The next big test for the Vikings will be this Thursday when they travel to Blairsburg, Iowa and play NE Hamilton in the final regular season game of the year. The key to this is that both teams are undefeated and the NEH team are the defending Iowa 8 Man State Champions. Win or lose the Vikings are in the playoffs and are poised to go deep in the playoffs. I'll keep you posted!

Pastor Steve

A Champion Is Crowned

It is my pleasure to announce that Daniel Cox has won the first annual BBQ contest at the Nevada Baptist Church.

Daniels entry was a Pork Shoulder Roast, seasoned, cooked and smoked to perfection!

Great Job Daniel!!!

Pastor Steve

26 Years Ago Today

Today is a very special day for me.

26 years ago this evening, in the missionary bedroom in a pastor's house in Wisconsin I accepted God's Free gift of salvation and received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior.

This is without a doubt the best decision I have ever made. I'm not going to try to tell you that my life has been nothing but a bed of roses, but I would not trade one minute of it for anything. Walking with God has been the greatest adventure that I could have ever imagined.

In the fall of 1984 I choose 1 Timothy 1:16 as my live verse; "However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life."

Thank you Lord for drawing me to You!

Pastor Steve

PS: If you would ever be interested in the full version of the story of my salvation just let me know I love to tell the story!

Now This is Funny!!!

Back in the Blogging Saddle Again

Just when you thought you had heard the last of me ... I'm back!

As you know we've been walking through the aftermath of Lynn's brother's death. This has been a time of real spiritual growth as it has caused us to continue to work out our theology toward its logical conclusion and it has truly been a blessing.

In the midst of all of that , we know that life goes on.

Susan has just completed her final youth deer season and again we did not score a deer. Not for lack of opportunity, just didn't seal the deal...YET! The Iowa law has changed and Susuan will be able to use her tag in later seasons! She is looking forward to another opportunity to BLAST Bambi.

Susan has also begun her quest entitled "DRIVERS ED"! She is getting her class time in and some driving time with her Mother. If you need to ask "why her Mother and not her Dad?" You don' t know me very well! Lynn has done all the driving with our kids and they have all risen up and called her blessed!

Philip is playing JV football for the Ventura Vikings and really enjoying his games. He plays safety on defense and wide receiver on offense. He plays very well! The Vikings varsity team is 5-0 and having a really great year!

Amy is home now trying to decide what she wants to do before she invests any more time and money in her college education. Right now she is working as a part-time teachers aid in the Clear Lake Community School District and she is really waiting for a full time position to open up.

Daniel and Maggie are living in Ankeny and going to school full time and working as much as possible. I could not be more proud of them.

Lynn and I just keep moving forward, serving the Lord together and constantly seeking His perfect will for our lives.

Well that's the update more to come real soon ... I promise!

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

PS: Thanks for all of the birthday wishes!

Second Article About Lynn's Brother's Accident

Motorcyclist killed in head-on crash

ROSE COOPER
County Editor

A Kentucky man was killed when the motorcycle he was riding was struck in a head-on crash involving three vehicles Saturday afternoon on U.S. 50 in Dodson Township, Highland County.

Fatally injured in the crash was Kevin A. Coulter, 49, of Burlington, Ky., who was riding a 2005 Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide motorcycle, according to the Wilmington Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).

Coulter was wearing his helmet at the time of the crash, which occurred at approximately 4:07 p.m. Saturday

Coulter and another vehicle, a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup truck, driven by Randall Sanders, 51, of Lebanon, were traveling westbound on U.S. 50, according to the OSHP report.

The third vehicle, a 1998 Dodge Ram 3500 pickup truck driven by Curtis E. Adams, 18,

of Lynchburg, was eastbound on U.S. 50.

"Mr. Adams failed to maintain assured clear distance ahead and swerved to the left to avoid striking a stopped vehicle in the roadway," said Sgt. Ed Mejia, assistant commander of the Wilmington OSHP post. " He (Adams) then went left of center, striking the motorcycle driven by Coulter and the Chevrolet pickup truck driven by Mr. Sanders, head on."

Coulter was pronounced dead at the scene by a flight nurse from Miami Valley Hospital Care Flight.

Sanders and Adams were not injured.

"While this crash remains under investigation, alcohol does not appear to be a factor in this crash," Mejia said.

"While these types of crashes are tragic, nearly all of them are preventable," Mejia said. "We continue to strongly encourage motorists to slow down and pay close attention to their driving habits and drive defensively."

Tragedy In Lynns Family

From a human perspective a senseless and tragic accident has claimed the live of Lynn's older brother Kevin Coulter.

Kevin was killed last Saturday evening on his way home from a motorcycle rally in Ohio. Here is a link to a newspaper article:

http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2007/09/02/biker.html

From a better perspective, Kevin was called home to the side of his Savior. Kevin asked Christ to save him in 1992.

In a time of real tragedy and tears it is a comfort to know that our God in in control and even when we don't understand and as why - we can trust the sovereignty of God!

That's all for now,

Pastor Steve

Not What They Were Expecting

Whale harpooned, hauled in by Japanese boat in front of whale-watching tourists

SAPPORO -- Eco-tourists on a whale-watching vessel, looking forward to observing the mighty creatures in their natural habitat, were instead greeted by the sight of a harpooned whale being dragged in by a Japanese whaling vessel on Friday.

At about 10:44 a.m. on Friday, a whale was spotted spraying water from its blowhole near a whaling boat, about 3.5 kilometers away from the whale-watching vessel off the coast of Hokkaido's Shiretoko Peninsula. But when the vessel approached, the passengers on board found that the whalers had harpooned the Baird's beaked whale, and it was hauled in by the whaling boat about 20 minutes later.

About 20 passengers on the whale-watching vessel looked on, voicing their pity as the whale was captured. A French woman who was on the vessel with her husband reportedly said the experience made her feel ill.

There were two other whale-watching boats nearby, but one of them left after a child started crying.

The 46-year-old captain of the passenger vessel was disappointed by the incident, which took place about 14 kilometers east of Rausu Port in Hokkaido.

"It's my job to show people whales and it's the whalers' job to catch them, but I wonder how this can be avoided," he said.

One of the two whaling companies operating the whaling ship, meanwhile, filed a protest against the whale watching vessel with the Rausu town government.

"The passenger boat approached us, which was extremely dangerous. We think this could be considered dangerous sailing, and we want you to issue a warning," the protest said.

This reminds me of the seals that were rescued from an oil slick and nursed back to health in California. On the special day when the seals were to be released back into the wild, bus loads of school children & a marching band were brought in to see the seals regain their freedom. The seals were released into the water and as they were swimming out they were devoured (eaten) by a whale. All of this happened right in front of the children, the marching band and the horrified teachers. Children & teachers were crying, the tree huggers just stood there in shock.

OOPS!

Welcome to the real world!

Pastor Steve

Theological Baffonery

Obama attends church service in New Orleans.

(CNN) — Speaking to Sunday church congregants in New Orleans, Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama invoked Jesus' Sermon on the Mount days before the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

"Getting ready to talk to you today, I recall what Jesus said at the end of the Sermon on the Mount," Obama said at New Orleans' First Emmanuel Baptist Church. "He said, whoever hears these sayings of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on a rock."

"The rains descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house. But it did not fall, because it was founded on the rock," he continued.

That rock, he said, was a principal of brotherhood exemplified by the church during Hurricane Katrina — but not the federal government. (emphasis added by PSC)

"Something was wrong in America. Our foundation wasn't built on the rock," he said.

Obama blasted local, state and federal response to the storm, and touched upon ingredients necessary for the city's rebuilding, namely more employment opportunities for residents to rebuild, community-based law enforcement to tackle the city's crime epidemic, and improved health care.

President George Bush and several presidential candidates plan to visit New Orleans this week to commemorate the hurricane's anniversary.

Obama spent Saturday in Miami, where he brushed aside criticisms of running his campaign on the intangible platform of hope, calling himself a "hope monger," and proposed easing travel restriction with Cuba.

– CNN Political Desk Editor Mark Norman

Wow That is very interesting Biblical Theology. Unique interpretation --- NOT EVEN CLOSE!! But what do we really expect from any ploitical candidate! 'Nuff said.

Pastor Steve

You Can't Fix Stupid!

Iowa wideouts Douglas, Bowman suspended after arrest

---

ESPN.com news services

A year after the lack of a respectable passing game saw the Iowa Hawkeyes drop out of Big Ten title contention, the school announced that sophomore wide receivers Dominique Douglas and Anthony Bowman have been suspended indefinitely by the team following an arrest on Sunday.

The two wideouts were arrested and charged with unauthorized use of a credit card, but were later released by authorities on their own recognizance.

Douglas, who led the team in receptions (49) and receiving yards (654), was charged with making more than $2,000 in purchases to credit cards belonging to two other people, Johnson County District Court record said.

The felony charge is punishable by five years in jail and a fine up to $7,500.

In a statement issued Monday, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz announced the two would not participate in any team activities.

"The accusations are serious and, if proven to be true, are extremely disappointing for everyone associated with the University of Iowa and our football program," Ferentz said. "As always, we will work with the appropriate individuals and entities on and off campus as this matter works its way through the legal system.

"As is often the case in matters of this nature, I am aware of inconsistencies in what may or may not have taken place. We need to let the legal process run its course."

Iowa finished a disappointing 6-7 last year, losing in the Alamo Bowl to Texas, and will open the 2007 season Sept. 1 against Northern Illinois in Chicago.

Another Day In My Life & The Value Of Good Friends!

On the way to Daniels wedding in Nevada we stoped at Story City to get some cool drinks before arriving at the Church.

When we returned to the van it would not run! My diagnosis was that the fuel pump was shot. After everything I could think to do was done I called Pastor James Reynolds and had him come get us. Pastor James tried everything he knew and we left the van and headed off to Nevada.

After a few phone calls I had a guy from Eldora come and tow my car and fix it. At 8 AM on Saturday he called to say I was right and my fuel pump was DOA. However, he had replaced it and it was ready to be picked up.

The problem was that I was just a bit busy on Saturday and had no time to retrieve my van from Eldora. Problem solved - my very good friend Nick Oliver said he was willing to go after the van and bring it back to Nevada.

Nick took off and found the van just as the mechanic said it would be. Nick gets in and the van started with no problem ... except that none of the electrical wass working. No power windows, no A/C, no turn signals.

Now this is not a problem that we have not had before. All you have to do is turn the van off and start it again, no big deal. However, Nick does not know this and he can not reach any of us because we've all ditched our cell phones because of teh wedding.

So Nick drives our van from Eldora to Nevada, approximately 45 miles, in nearly 100 degree weather in a van with no A/C and the windows up! To say the least he was hot in more ways than one when he arrived at the church in Nevada.

Words can not convey my thankfulness to Nick for his help on Saturday or how bad I feel about the way things worked out. Good friends are hard to find and I about lost one on Saturday!

Thanks again Nick and I owe you HUGE!!!

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Cox

Dan and Maggie's wedding was last Saturday and it was truly a blessing.

There were a ton of friends and family there and everyone was so excited for Dan and Maggie's future.

the wedding went off without a hitch! Although there were moments, like Daniel jumping the gun on the "I DO's" and the Pastor getting all choked up and crying. I gave the kids the same bit of advice that was given to me on my wedding day and that was this: No matter what happens; 30 minuets after you start you will be married!

Now that they are back, I can tell you that Dan & Maggie honeymooned in Colorado. Word is they had a wonderful time and are glad to be back home in Ankeny!

Back From Senior High Camp

Greetings All!

I'm back from a great week of Senior High Camp! God blessed and we give Him the glory for a number of life changing decisions.

I had a great group of guys in my cabin, two from Perry, one from Council Bluffs, one from Nevada & Philip from Clear Lake.

Everyone had a great time - thanks for your thoughts and prayers!

Vacation Bible School

VBS is in the books for this year and what a week it was!

As a Pastor I'm so thankful for the folks in our church that are willing to do whatever it takes to make ministry a success.

Our theme this year was Bethlehem Village published by Group. The program was very good and the idea of setting up our church basement as the Bethlehem Village worked very well. We had a bakery, farmers market, toy shop, perfume shop, music shop, mosaic shop, coin store, a census taker and a dye shop. We had a village begger, High Priest, blind begger, and a Roman Centurion.

What a great week! Praise the Lord!

Pastor Steve

Rain Glorious Rain

We are dry in North Iowa! We are in dire need of rain and the showers of blessings came yesterday!

Last evening the storm clouds rolled in and when the wind and rain were over I had 9/10ths of an inch of rain! PTL!!

This is a good start and I'm hoping for more - the forecast looks good!

Pray for rain and carry an umbrella!!!

Pastor Steve

Jr. High Camp 2007

Jr. High Camp is in the books for 2007 and it was a fantastic week! I feel so privileged to have been a part of the week.

This year the 9th graders were kept in Jr. High and were party of "Springboard" which was used to help them realize the importance of right relationships with parents, teachers & peers. The teens responded very well and seemed to really enjoy the week.

The evening speaker was Pastor Stephen Moore, who did a great job with the Word of God! God saw fit to draw 20 young people to Himself and many others made dedication decisions. Missionary Henry Johns was the morning speaker for the 7th & 8th graders, Dave Callison handled the mornings for the "Springboarders".

As for me, I was the boys Dean. We had a great week with very few matters that the dean would need to be involved. It was an honor and privilege to be asked to have this position. Thanks to Pastor James Reynolds.

Pastor Steve

Are We Done? - We're DONE!

Daniel and Maggie are getting married on August 11th and it seemed so far away - until today.

Let me back up a bit, when the news of the future nuptials was released I knew that Lynn would need to get a new dress and some shoes. Oh! I was sooo mistaken. With in the last few weeks I was informed I needed to get a new suit ... new shirt ... new tie ... and more than likely new shoes.

Friday morning Lynn suggested that we head over to the mall and check out the suit separates at JC Penney's. They had nothing that I was interested in and a very small selection too boot. On a whim we ventured into Mooreman's, a men's clothing store uptown Mason City. There we found a very nice charcoal suit, it was a bit out of our price range but our only other option was a trip to Des Moines. With gas at almost $3.00 a gallon, we decided to go local.

That logic all changed on Saturday morning, Lynn suggested that we load up Amy & Susan and head out to the outlet mall in Medford, Minn. The ides was that we might be able to find Lynn's dress. She had found a dress in a catalog but they were sold out of her size and we were now back to square one.

We arrived at the store and Lynn must have tried on 15 or 20 dresses. By the time we finished she decided on a beautiful dress for the wedding and a wonderful casual outfit for the rehearsal dinner. Shoes were purchased and we headed back to Clear Lake. Following supper we headed to Mason City for the last few items. At about 9:30PM we walked out of the last store and I look at Lynn and said, "Are we done?" She replied, "we're done!"

I have know since last Christmas that the wedding was coming, but the reality is beginning to settle in. Daniel is getting married. Wow!

Pastor Steve

4th Of July In Clear Lake

As Iowa goes there is only one place to be on the 4th of July and that place is CLEAR LAKE!

The day begins with the best parade in the state. This year was no exception! The only wrinkle was that the "Billary Road Show" was in town and the former President and his wife were walking in the parade, that in its self really bogged down the process in the beginning. They were the 5th or 6th unit in the parade and they were just creeping alone with the heard of protection, media and them pretending to enjoy the experience.

Sidebar: Bill Clinton got some serious WHITE hair! Dude was glowing in the sunshine! Almost hurt your eyes to look at him. This morning on "Fox & Friends" they compared him to Bob Barker!!! What a riot!

Once the "Billary Road Show" got off the main stage the parade was off and running. And as always everyone had a great time. Now I need to mention a special thanks to Ivan and Brenda for letting us invade their yard for the parade and a special thanks to all who brought goodies! Patty, your caramel pecan rolls were excellent, my new favorite!

After the parade we headed back to the house for a bit of lunch and to begin preparations for the cook out at John and Mary's. This year the Cox's brought marinated chicken breast & the fixing's for Italian sausage sandwiches. Good food and great fellowship!

After supper we made our way to the church and then walked down to the lake front for the annual 4th of July fireworks display. Clear Lake has a great fireworks show every year and this year was no exception. The local paper said that there was $50,000 worth of fireworks this year and it was an incredible show! The concussion from the really large shells was powerful, you literally could feel the shock wave.

After the fireworks we headed back to the church for the final activity of the day. Waiting for the inevitable car accident at the corner by the church. If you have ever been to the Clear Lake Baptist Church you know that it is located on a weird configured intersection. Now before you get all "your sick waiting for an accident" on me; you need to know that there has been an accident at that corner the past two years and this year we were prepared and ready to call for the police if needed. The good news is that there was NO accident this year and everyone behaved themselves and got through safely! There were still plenty of close calls and near misses but in the end ... all was safe on our corner!

What a great day! Time spent with friends, remembering the price of our political freedom, enjoying food, fun & fellowship. At least that's the way I see it!

They Stole My Shopping Cart!

A week ago last Saturday Lynn, Amy & I were at Wal-Mart. We were doing the little family shopping thing and picking up just a few items we needed before Lynn & I headed off to the national GARBC conference in PA.

We were having a great time laughing and carrying on as we are want to do from time to time. Amy and Lynn spent over 20 minutes looking for new sunglasses, just the perfect ones that they really liked. I picked up some dog food and other assorted items. Then the girls wanted to look for flip flops. (Their new favorite past time!)

Not wanting to be left out on a chance to harass and irritate my favorite ladies I parked my cart out of the way of traffic and wondered over to the shoe department. After a wonderful time of pestering I left to retrieve the cart but someone STOLE MY SHOPPING CART!!!!!

At first I though that Amy took it but we caught up to her and she did not have it. We looked everywhere and no cart! Then we had to get another cart and start the hunting and gathering process all over again. As you can imagine there were no sun glasses that were as perfect as the first set!

I was so fired up! Who would steal a shopping full of stuff? What would you do with the stuff that you didn't want? What are the odds of walking into Wal-Mart and finding the random shopping cart with everything that you were going to purchase to begin with ????? What kind of person does these things!?!?!?!?!?

For the record we NEVER found our cart. Lynn and Amy got to the point that it was way more funny that I was so steamed and then they started laughing at me and my attitude. Why could they not see that this was NOT funny. They laughed at me the rest of the evening...so unfair! No one cares but me. I WANT MY CART BACK!!!!

I need a nap -

Pastor Steve

Fathers Day 2007

Sunday was Father's Day and I was thrilled to have all our kids home for the weekend.

The kids arrived on Friday evening along with Lynn's Mom Carol.

Saturday began with a bike ride around Clear Lake. My wonderful wife gave me a new bike for father's day! The crew for the bike ride included Dan, Maggie and me, a trip of around 14.5 miles. We stopped half way and had a friend, Charlie, join us for the second half of the ride. We also made a stop at the Baptist Camp. After a hardy breakfast with the entire family ... all seven of us! Amy and I took off for Mason City for a Father's Day shopping trip. Amy wanted to get me a new bird bath. We looked and looked and finally settled on the very first one we looked at! I really like, it's heave and looks really nice to boot!











Amy and I picked up a load of fire wood for my fire pit and then we got ready to have company for supper. For the last two Saturday evenings we have invited any of the full time summer staff at the Baptist Camp to come over for a cookout. This is a Bring Your Own Meat and Soda event and the young people seem to really enjoy the the down time. Supper was followed by games and the evening broke up around 10 PM.

Sunday was a great day at Church. Sunday lunch was Chicken on the grill and it was very good. Philip, Susan, Dan and Maggie all gave me cards. Philip's and Susan's were hand made and very thoughtful and cute. Philip's was printed on the computer and he printed it backwards. He said it was because I'm left handed but I'm not sure!?!?!?

The folks at the Clear Lake Church were very happy to see the kids again. Daniel & Maggie were able to be here for a wedding shower at the church. We had a fellowship supper and service all together in our evening service time. It was a very special time for Daniel and he was very emotional as he spoke and thanked everyone for their ministry in his life over the last 12 years.

It was a very emotional evening and a real blessing for Daniel, Maggie and Lynn and I. The time to say goodbye and with Dan's car loaded to the gills the group rolled out for Ankeny and Oskaloosa.

All in all it was a great father's day! Thanks to my kids for making me feel very special. I love you all very much!!!!

I remain,
Pastor Steve

Special Camp Photos

Special Camp - That's A Wrap!

Well Special Camp closed with a bang!

We changed our schedule and the camper were on their way home by 1 PM on Friday afternoon. This was done for a couple of reasons, first the group homes were having to send someone to pick up the campers on Saturday which usually meant overtime pay. Good for drivers - Bad for group homes. Second, some group homes forgot to send someone and we had camper on the grounds until as late as 2 PM on Saturday's. Third, the camper are worn out by Friday morning. And fourth, the counselors are tired as well.

Friday morning saw the last of the pontoon boat rides that were postponed earlier in the week because of wind and rain. So every camper that wanted a ride on the pontoon boat was able to get that ride!

Bible class time, craft time and counselor/camper time was completed on Friday before noon and lunch followed. After lunch we held our final chapel service with Pastor Garry Moore. He did a great job all week not just with the campers but also challenging the counselors and staff as well! Praise God for Pastor Moore's ministry!

Special Camp 2007 is in the book. Done and done! A very special thank to all who make camp possible, with out your help there is no way we could do the things that God allows us to do and accomplish!

I'm already looking forward to Special Camp 2008 - "The Rescue Zone"

That's A Wrap,
Pastor Steve

Special Camp Update - Friday

Another very windy day at special camp. there was the threat of rain and storms but God saw fit to let everything move North and East of us and we have a very sunny day!

The weather was perfect for our second softball game of the week and I'm sorry to report that the counselors LOST for the 12 year in a row! We'll just have to keep trying ... we almost always win the Monday, but never the Thursday game! We will just have to try harder next year!

Last evening was the banquet for the campers and those who want to can get dressed up in their best and come to supper. The dinning hall staff serves everyone their food and it always a very special meal. This year we had ham w/ pineapple, green bean casserole, cheesy potatoes, fruit salad and apple pie cake. It was wonderful!

Following another great preaching service with Pastor Garry Moore, we had our awards chapel. Every camper and staffer gets a ribbon for being at special camp and other ribbons are give for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, in our "special games". Softball throw, long jump, short run and long run. Everyone really enjoys our "special games".

That's it for now - A wrap up report is yet to come!

Pastor Steve

Special Camp Update - Thursday

All is well at special camp!

We had a wonderful day on Wednesday, the rained high winds came but the afternoon turned off rather nice. Still very windy but the campers were able to get outside and enjoy the day.

The service went well and there was one man who professed Christ, so we are very excited!

Today we have beautiful sunshine but the wind is still ripping! At this time we do not know if we will be able to open the waterfront on the lake. The campers love to ride the bumper boats so please pray the winds die down!!!!

Thanks for all your prayers!

More to come.......

Pastor Steve

Special Camp Update-Wednesday

Yesterday was a great day the weather was perfect and the campers had a lot of fun.

The pool and lake front were open and so the bumper boat were getting a workout! The pool was a bit cold but the camper who braved the water thought it was worth the effort.

Last night just after the evening service there was one camper who received Jesus as personal Savior! P.T.L.!!! This makes all the work of the staff & counselors worth every bit of effort!

Continue to pray for Special Camp! Today looks like a rain day with some thunder boomers and high winds. Special campers are not great fans of thunder storms - so keep us in your prayers!

More reports to come....
Pastor Steve

Special Camp is Underway!

Special camp got underway this morning with a counselors meeting at 9 AM and camper registration at 10AM!

Please Pray for a very productive week and that God would do a great work in the campers and counselors lives!

More to come....

Pastor Steve

Memorial Day Weekend

The Memorial Day Weekend got off on a bit of a sad note as we celebrated the life of one of our friends father who passed away. Visitation on Friday and funeral on Saturday. Psalm 116:15 tells us "Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints." Thank God for His Word!

Saturday evening was spent fishing on Clear Lake with Philip and the fishing was good! We caught a good number of fish and had a great time together. While on the dock, the special speaker for our Sunday services came by for a chat , we visited for a bit and we headed home to do a bit of fish cleaning.

Memorial Day Sunday was a big day at the CLRBC. Our special speaker for the day was Jason Nightingale of Wordsower Ministries. Jason Nightingale is co-founder of Wordsower International. Jason teaches and exhorts through dramatic recitation of entire books of the New Testament or large portions of Scripture from memory. Their ministry, founded in 1974, donates most of its proceeds to raise support for and awareness of orphans and widows in West Africa.

Sunday in Clear Lake Jason ministered from the Books of 1 John, 1 & 2 Peter as well as the Book of Revelation. 1 John included an allegory of a house that reflected Jason's spiritual journey. 1 & 2 Peter were give in relation to the parable of the sower and the soils found in the gospels. The Book of Revelation stands on its own!

It was a wonderful day and everyone had a great time. What a blessing to sit and HEAR the Word of God in a dramatic way!

Memorial Day for Lynn and I began with breakfast out with friends from the church. We had a blast, we love getting together with folk from the church and just rejoicing in the Lord.

The bulk of our Memorial Day was spent out at the Stephenson's for an all church picnic. We arrived just about 1PM and left for home sometime after 10 PM.

The day was filled with sqinny ball, games and lots of just sitting around and visiting. Jason Nightingale and his wife were able to stick around and enjoy the day with us and they seemed to really enjoy getting to know our folks here.

Dan and I fired the grill about 4 PM and supper was ON! Everything from T-bone steaks, Pork Chops, Venison, Fish, Chicken, Brats, Dogs and Burgers. What a spread! If you left hungry from this fellowship it was your own fault.

Following the meal Jason offered to speak the scriptures to us before they would have to leave and we hardily agreed! Jason spoke the first 5 chapters of the Gospel of John interspersed with commentary and application. It was tremendous!

Overall a great weekend and one that will not soon be forgotten!

That's the way I see it,
Pastor Steve

PS: We also celebrated Lynn's Birthday!

Together 24 Years

This past week Lynn and I celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary.

This got me to thinking, we met in high school and dated for 5 years before getting married. We've know each other for 29 years. Is that even possible? It truly seems like yesterday that we were playing Frisbee under the 9th street via duct (one of our first dates). Is it possible that I could be married for 24 years and have 4 wonderful children, all of whom love the Lord and desire to walk with Him?

The answer is YES.

But the truth is that it is only by the grace of God. I'm so thankful that God saw fit to bring Lynn and I together. It was through her influence that I heard the good news of the Gospel and received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. Our journey together has not always been easy or fun, but our goal has been consistent - Walk with and Serve our Lord. She is my best friend and I'm so thankful and blessed to have her in my life.

That is the way I see it!
Pastor Steve

Valley Fish & Cheese Market

One of the side benefits of the hunting trip to NE Iowa is a quick trip across the river to Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin and a stop at the Valley Fish & Cheese Market.

The fare of the market is smoked fish, but the menu does not end there. You can get jerky there, carp jerky, catfish jerky and turtle jerky. Another great item is the frog legs! Smoked fish is lead by the catfish and carp but you can also get smoked sturgeon. My favorite is the smoked catfish.

The market is also know for their selection of Wisconsin cheeses. They have about anything that you could need or want, my favorite is the hot pepper cheese. It is great and really snappy!

If you ever get the chance to get over to Prairie du Chien you have to make a stop in at the Valley Fish & Cheese Market.

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Hunting In NorthEast Iowa

Rolling out of Clear Lake at about 9 PM on the 13th of May, I was headed to a long awaited hunting trip to NE Iowa. The fare of the trip was first and foremost the elusive timber ghost also known as the Eastern turkey, followed closely by a search for morel mushrooms and if time and weather permit, a bit of stream fishing.

I rolled out on Monday morning at 4:15 AM and headed for the woods. Just in the edge when I heard my first turkey and started to close the distance. Being a novice at this discipline I quickly bumped this bird and never heard from him again! So goes the adventure of turkey hunting. Not hearing another bird within 2 miles, I headed for breakfast at about 9 AM. Breakfast on this trip is at as little joint in Garnavillo called Thoma Dairy Bar Cafe. The food here is very good. My standard breakfast is a couple of eggs over medium, sausage patty, toast and sometimes hash browns w/ onions. Of course there is always coffee!

After a great meal and stories of how everyone else did on their morning hunts, it's back to the timber and the patient wait for an appearance of a long beard. One of the keys to turkey hunting seems to be the weather. Monday's weather was not really conducive to good hunting. Very hot and VERY windy. What this did was really make for a long afternoon & early evening. I finally rolled out of the timber at about 7 PM after seeing nothing and sweating profusely.

The highlight of Tuesday's hunt was breakfast! I got up at 4:15 AM to a light rain which continued all stinking day except during the afternoon where is poured for about an hour! Some of the other guys I was with saw some birds but not me ... I saw no turkeys.

Wednesday was another story. Back into the timber at O dark thirty and I began another stalk on a gobbler. After about thirty minutes, this noisy gobbler went silent. So I worked my way back to my regular spot and sat quietly and just watched the hay field in front of me. I saw deer and had one buck walk within about 6 to 9 feet of me, so close that I could hear him breathing! What a rush ... That is a close encounter of the timber kind! I also saw a fox and a coyote as well as a couple of hen turkeys but not long beards.

Because of commitments back home I needed to leave right after breakfast on Wednesday. Following a royal feast, I said my goodbyes to the hunting party and headed West for Clear Lake.

This is my third year and I'm still looking for my first turkey. That's why it is called hunting and not killing! My time will come but in the mean time the trip was great, the company was awesome and I'm already looking forward to next year!

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Adventureland Rally 2007

Saturday was the state youth rally at Adventureland for 2007! The rally was sponsored be the Southeast Iowa Pastor's Fellowship and was a great success!

The rally was excellent and the speaker did a great job handling the Word of God. There were many decisions made for Christ and to that I say to God be the Glory!

Adventureland is adventureland ... not much ever changes and I find myself riding less and less rides and doing more and more visiting. I guess I'm old! This year I only rode one roller coaster but the real reason was because of the crowds. There was a lot of people at the park this year!

For the first time in a lot of years the weather was fantastic! Sunny and a high in the upper 80's. In the most resent years we endured cold, damp and rainy weather. This is the first year in I'm not sure how many that I actually wore shorts to the park. I don't bust out these big white legs very often - so it really had to be great weather.

Saw bunches of folk that I know and got in some great visiting time with many. Amy Cox was able to attend and we spent most of the day with her. She and Lynn tried to soak me on the log ride and that little project backfired all over Lynn! HAHAHAHA! Don't mess with the KING!

All in all a great day with good friend just hanging out and having fun!

I'm leaving shortly for a days to go on a hunting trip. Hunting turkeys, mushrooms & getting in some small mouth bass fishing. Report to follow!

I Remain ,
Pastor Steve

Walking Through the Hard Times with Friends

I was saddened beyond belief on Sunday evening when one of my best friends call to let me know that his oldest son had died in a canoing accident on the Iowa River just south on Iowa Falls. Steve & Cindy are doing well and using this as an opportunity to see God goodness and grace, resting in the peace that passes all understanding.

Jonathan David Hill - April 29, 2007

Jonathan D. Hill, 26, of Iowa Falls, Iowa, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2007, at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital, Iowa Falls. Funeral services for Jonathan Hill will be 1:00 pm Thursday, May 3. 2007, at Bethany Lutheran Church, Iowa Falls, with Pastor James Ackerson officiating. Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, Iowa Falls. A time of Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 pm Wednesday at the Linn's Funeral Home, Iowa Falls. Memorials may directed to the family c/o his parents: Steven and Cynthia Hill, 1015 1st Avenue North, Iowa Falls, Iowa 50126. The Linn's Funeral Homes Iowa Falls Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements. Jonathan David Hill was born October 11, 1980, at Cedar Falls, Iowa, the son of Steven and Cynthia [Peters] Hill. He graduated from Iowa Falls High School with the class of 1999. He attended Ellsworth Community College for a years and a half. He was employed as a laborer with Mulford Steel Fabricating, Hampton, Iowa. He was a kind and gentle soul who had love for all. Jonathan Hill is survived by his parents: Steven and Cynthia Hill of Iowa Falls, Iowa; one sister: Sarah Hill of Ankeny, Iowa; two brothers: Luke Hill of Ankeny, Iowa, Matthew Hill of Iowa Falls, Iowa; his maternal grandparents: Marvin and Patricia Peters of Blue Springs, Missouri; and his maternal great grandmother: Louise Peters of Kansas City, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents: Francis and Margaret Hill.

I Remain,
Pastor Steve

Pastor Steve's Dad & Counselor Training

I wanted to post an update on my blog about my Dad. Dad is doing much better! I stopped by to see him the other day and he was getting around the house very well. He is still very tired and has a long way to go but he is home with Mom and they are very happy.

Thanks to all who were praying for him ... keep it up!

April 27 & 28 were the dates for counselor training at the Iowa Regular Baptist Camp. About 150 people showed up for the retreat and it was a very profitable time. The keynote speaker this year was Pastor Bob Fields from Illinois. As always Pastor Fields did a fantastic job with the preaching of the Word. Very convicting and very challenging.

The workshops that I attended were very well done. One that I attended was hosted by Pastor Scott Owen and was on the use of questions in counseling. The idea is that as we talk to people and try to help them work through their problem we should ask pertinent questions. One statement that Pastor Owen made was that "questions tweak the conscious and accusations harden the will". As you think about is I know I would rather have someone ask me a thought provoking question rather than just assume they know my thoughts and motives.

I had the chance to get together with almost all of my Special Camp staff at the retreat. I used it as an opportunity to make sure that we were all on the same page with the teachers, crafts and counselors. As usual everyone was on top of their game and had everything ready to go. My staff makes me look good!

I remain,
Pastor Steve