SAVE THE DATE 
for our GO Sunday on April 26th. Our GO partners, Santi and Jackie Olortegui will be joining us for our service followed by a Pot-luck lunch. The Olortegui's serve college students in North Carolina at Elon University through Pathway ministries. Santi is also currently the pastor for Spanish ministries at Iglesia Shalom. Please bring a dish to share at our potluck.




LOST AND FOUND
Please check downstairs in the fellowship hall entry way where the lost and found is located. We have collected many items! Thanks!

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

April:
Psalm 139:14
May:
Ephesians 4:32

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

For our Sunday service and for Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For the Sargent’s who will be traveling to Florida from April 14 to April 22. 

Pray for the people that come to our Food Pantry. Everyone that comes is very thankful to the Church for having the pantry. We have 12-15 different individuals coming when we are open.

Pine Brook Camp is having a Craft Weekend for Women this weekend. Faith-Focused General Sessions will begin and end each day with an inspiring message from God's Word! Pray for those who attend that do not know Jesus.

Pray for our North Central Collective church partner Bethany Bible Chapel in Gardner and their senior pastor, Ruben A. Cabrera.

Our ministry focus this week is the Diaconate. Bob Jablonski (chair), Pete Diemand, Justin Hunting, Charlie Abbott, Mary Burek, Millie Postema, and Dan Bartlett.

Our GO Partner of the week is Mike and Grace Stafford. Continue to pray for Grace's health. Mike will continue to travel to Rivers of Mercy when groups are coming to do projects.

For Matthew Jackman. They still haven't heard back about a date for a surgery on his arm. This is an update from Tonia on Wednesday: "We had an appointment today with the pain clinic, and she's going to send a message to the surgeon to see what's up. I'm not sure what's going to happen because his back is so painful and isn't healing because he keeps getting the hiccups. I don't think we can move him to get him to Boston while his back is so bad. I guess we're going to have to at least wait until I get back home and then go from there." Tonia and Kayleigh are traveling to Italy on Tuesday.

April
1 – Norma Hunting
8 – Marina Leonovich
12 – Janice Abbott, Magnolia Sargent
14 – Michael Stafford – Gabe & Lily’s son
16 – Hal Black
23 – Bob Jablonski
24 – Matt Abbott
27 – Dom Rice
28 – Jessica Bartlett
29 – Emily Cobb
30 – Nikki Stafford

Easter Services
Join us tomorrow night at 6:00pm (April 3rd) for our Good Friday service. We will have a joint service with Green River Bible Church at NLBC. Together Lets remember and rejoice in our Savior's love as displayed on the cross.
Our Sunday Resurrection Day celebration will include a breakfast at 8 am, followed by our service at 10. Prayerfully consider who you could invite to hear the good news!

Thank you!
A big thank you to all who ordered Easter flowers! If you ordered a flower, please remember to pick them up after the Sunday morning service. Your name will be on a tag in the back of the flower.


LOST AND FOUND
Please check downstairs in the fellowship hall entry way where the lost and found is located. We have collected many items! Thanks!

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

April:
Psalm 139:14
May:
Ephesians 4:32

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

April
1 – Norma Hunting
8 – Marina Leonovich
12 – Janice Abbott, Magnolia Sargent
14 – Michael Stafford – Gabe & Lily’s son
16 – Hal Black
20 – Pam Williams
23 – Bob Jablonski
24 – Matt Abbott
27 – Dom Rice
28 – Jessica Bartlett
29 – Emily Cobb
30 – Nikki Stafford

NLBC Parents
Children's Ministry will be putting together Easter Kits with activities for families to use at home together during the week leading up to Easter. We'd love to know how many to prepare, so if your family would like a kit, please text Mariah Jackman to sign up at 413-522-8014.

Easter Services
This year on Good Friday (April 3) we will be having a joint service with Green River Bible Church at NLBC. Please plan to join us at 6 pm to remember and rejoice in our Savior's love as displayed on the cross.
Our Sunday Resurrection Day celebration will include a breakfast at 8 am, followed by our service at 10. There are signup sheets on the back bulletin board for food.
And please prayerfully consider who you could invite to hear the good news!

LOST AND FOUND
Please check downstairs in the fellowship hall entry way where the lost and found is located. We have collected many items! Thanks!

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

March:
Jeremiah 29:11
April:
Psalm 139:14
May:
Ephesians 4:32

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

March 
29 – Celeste Ziemba

April
1 – Norma Hunting
8 – Marina Leonovich
12 – Janice Abbott, Magnolia Sargent
14 – Michael Stafford – Gabe & Lily’s son
16 – Hal Black
20 – Pam Williams
23 – Bob Jablonski
24 – Matt Abbott
27 – Dom Rice
28 – Jessica Bartlett
29 – Emily Cobb
30 – Nikki Stafford

NLBC Parents
Children's Ministry will be putting together Easter Kits with activities for families to use at home together during the week leading up to Easter. We'd love to know how many to prepare, so if your family would like a kit, please text Mariah Jackman to sign up at 413-522-8014.

Easter Services
This year on Good Friday (April 3) we will be having a joint service with Green River Bible Church at NLBC. Please plan to join us at 6 pm to remember and rejoice in our Savior's love as displayed on the cross.
Our Sunday Resurrection Day celebration will include a breakfast at 8 am, followed by our service at 10. There are signup sheets on the back bulletin board for food.
And please prayerfully consider who you could invite to hear the good news!

LOST AND FOUND
Please check downstairs in the fellowship hall entry way where the lost and found is located. We have collected many items! Thanks!

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

March:
Jeremiah 29:11
April:
Psalm 139:14
May:
Ephesians 4:32

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

4 – James Leonovich
5 – Rachel Cobb
7 – Mike Stafford
15 – John Burek
16 – Yashua Stafford
17 – Lexi Bartlett, Lily Strafford
18 – Emily Leonovich
19 – Chris Johnson, Derek Postema
20 – Noah Hunting, Sue Tidlund
21 – Amber Wahlstrom
23 – Lin Diemand
24 – Tim Hunting, Kayleigh Jackman
29 – Celeste Ziemba

NCC Covenant Signing
This past November, at our annual meeting, our church voted to join the North Central Collective (NCC), a group of churches partnering together to strengthen our churches and advance the kingdom of God in our region. To make our partnership official, the Elders of our church along with representatives from our partner churches will be signing the NCC covenant agreement during the service on this Sunday March 15th. The statement will be read aloud by Pastor Dan and then signed by the elders, signifying our partnership for the work of the Kingdom. We are so thankful for this partnership and look forward to all that it will bring in the future! For more information about the NCC please visit https://northcentralcollective.com/

Thank You!
Thank you to everyone who attended the Joni and Friends Launch Party and for the many ways you have supported this ministry. Joni and Friends exists to share the love of Christ with individuals and families living with disability, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead to serve together. If you would like more information about volunteering this summer or to learn how you can get involved, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413) 522-8014 or jackmanmariah@gmail.com

Easter Services
This year on Good Friday (April 3) we will be having a joint service with Green River Bible Church at NLBC. Please plan to join us at 6 pm to remember and rejoice in our Savior's love as displayed on the cross.
Our Sunday Resurrection Day celebration will include a breakfast at 8 am, followed by our service at 10. Please see Judy Todd for items to bring.
And please prayerfully consider who you could invite to hear the good news!

LOST AND FOUND
Please check downstairs in the fellowship hall entry way where the lost and found is located. We have collected many items! Thanks!

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

March:
Jeremiah 29:11
April:
Psalm 139:14
May:
Ephesians 4:32

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

4 – James Leonovich
5 – Rachel Cobb
7 – Mike Stafford
15 – John Burek
16 – Yashua Stafford
17 – Lexi Bartlett, Lily Strafford
18 – Emily Leonovich
19 – Chris Johnson, Derek Postema
20 – Noah Hunting, Sue Tidlund
21 – Amber Wahlstrom
23 – Lin Diemand
24 – Tim Hunting, Kayleigh Jackman
29 – Celeste Ziemba

Joni and Friends Launch Party
Join us tomorrow March 8th right after service! We’re excited to welcome special guest Traci Johnson, who will share what this incredible ministry is all about, and her story of how it has touched her life. She will also be sharing how you can be part of making a difference through upcoming opportunities like Family Retreat this summer and beyond. Be inspired and discover how God can use you through this ministry!  Pizza and dessert will be served, so bring your appetite and stay after church to celebrate all that God is doing!


NCC Covenant Signing
This past November, at our annual meeting, our church voted to join the North Central Collective (NCC), a group of churches partnering together to strengthen our churches and advance the kingdom of God in our region. To make our partnership official, the Elders of our church along with representatives from our partner churches will be signing the NCC covenant agreement during the service on Sunday March 15th. The statement will be read aloud by Pastor Dan and then signed by the elders, signifying our partnership for the work of the Kingdom. We are so thankful for this partnership and look forward to all that it will bring in the future! For more information about the NCC please visit https://northcentralcollective.com/

Sara’s Lift Donations
Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, all donations towards the lift project collected during March and April will be matched (up to $10,000)! This is an incredible opportunity to make some serious headway to this needed addition and we are beyond thankful. Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute!

Memory Verses

March:
Jeremiah 29:11

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

4 – James Leonovich
5 – Rachel Cobb
7 – Mike Stafford
15 – John Burek
16 – Yashua Stafford
17 – Lexi Bartlett, Lily Strafford
18 – Emily Leonovich
19 – Chris Johnson, Derek Postema
20 – Noah Hunting, Sue Tidlund
21 – Amber Wahlstrom
23 – Lin Diemand
24 – Tim Hunting, Kayleigh Jackman
29 – Celeste Ziemba

At our 2025 Annual Meeting this past November, the Elders proposed to our church members, and the members voted to approve, that we would join what is called the North Central Collective (NCC). The NCC is "a collective of like minded churches who purpose to establish a Gospel presence that leads to Gospel proclamation in our region." In other words, churches partnering together in the Gospel to advance God’s kingdom, following the model we see in the churches of the New Testament.
One of the key ways such a partnership achieves this goal of the spread of the gospel is through intentional training of leaders and emerging leaders in partner churches. What does that mean for us? First, this means more in-depth and expanded internship/training opportunities for young guys pursuing ministry. Being a part of the NCC means the pastors partnering together to train leaders, not just us doing it alone. As their home church, we would be the main place of training, but this partnership allows us to utilize the other pastors and their skills, gifts, talents, experience and specialties to come alongside these young guys as well in helping to raise them up in ways we could never sufficiently do on our own. Being a part of the NCC allows our church to offer in-depth and impactful ministry training right here!
More than just these young guys, I, Pastor Dan, receive and will continue to receive a direct investment in my ministry growth. As your pastor, it is my job to navigate the best pathways for growth, care and discipleship for our church and to continue growing in how to do this most wisely. I can take online courses, which I do. I can read books, which I do. I can meet with other local pastors, which I do. But the NCC provides personal, intentional interconnectedness, a group of pastors partnered, covenanted together, to care for, encourage, mentor, train and be there for one another day after day. By meeting together regularly, intentionally developing personal relationships and walking through pastoral ministry together with one another, this provides a level of training and accountability, really a ministry life-line, that no online training or book could ever do! Which is why we are so thankful for this opportunity for our church. We are so thankful our church approved this new thing; which we know can be hard! But what a blessing to be able to say we are seeking to partner together as best we can to see God’s kingdom advanced around and through us at NLBC! 
We would like to address some possible questions or concerns some people may have. Most importantly, being part of the NCC requires no changes in the church structure, bylaws, assembly, day-to-day operations. This is not like a denomination where they have authority over us or control over our building, ministries, budgets, etc. For most people in the church, it will be church as usual. One of the biggest things that will be seen by all is the fellowship and training opportunities, as the NCC plans events for the partner churches, things like men’s and women’s retreats (and as a partner church, Pastor Dan is on the board of the NCC and therefore takes a direct part in planning these events!). But this partnership does not directly impact how we as a church function and operate as an independent church.
As we have announced, on Sunday the 15th, during the service, we will have a brief time where we will make this partnership “official.” Some people have expressed concern with the idea of signing a “covenant.” This is simply a formal expression of a relationship, just like church membership. The covenant signing is merely making official and formal the partnership we already have. Below is the actual wording of it that will be read by one of the Elders that Sunday, and, alongside some of the pastors from the NCC, we will sign together on behalf of NLBC.
We as Elders are thankful for this partnership and the opportunity to advance God’s kingdom within and through NLBC. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Pastor Dan (pastor@nlbcma.org). You can also learn more about the NCC at www.northcentralcollective.com
 
In Christ,
 
The NLBC Elders 
 
North Central Collective Church Partnership Covenant
Believing we have been brought together by God's divine providence to partner together, as churches we commit today to this Covenant Partnership.
We will work and pray for the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace
We will walk together in brotherly love, as becomes the members of Christian Churches, exercise affectionate care, and watchfulness over each other, and faithfully admonish and entreat one another as occasion may require
We will not forsake the partnership of our churches work together in the progress of the gospel, nor neglect to pray for ourselves and others
We will rejoice at each other's happiness and endeavor with tenderness and sympathy to bear each other's burdens and sorrows
We will work together for the continuance of a faithful evangelical ministry in this church partnership, as we sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline, doctrines, and work in strengthening one another as needs may arise.
We will contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the partnership and the spread of the gospel through all nations
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen.

NCC Covenant Signing
This past November, at our annual meeting, our church voted to join the North Central Collective (NCC), a group of churches partnering together to strengthen our churches and advance the kingdom of God in our region. To make our partnership official, the Elders of our church along with representatives from our partner churches will be signing the NCC covenant agreement during the service on Sunday March 15th. We will read the covenant aloud and then sign it together, signifying our partnership for the work of the Kingdom. We are so thankful for this partnership and look forward to all that it will bring in the future! For more information about the NCC please visit https://northcentralcollective.com/

Congregational Meeting & Potluck
Please join us after the service this Sunday March 1, for our quarterly congregational meeting and potluck. Bring a dish to share and come hear an update from the ministries of our church!
All members are highly encouraged to attend as we will be voting on the assistant treasurer position. Dan Leonovich has volunteered, and the Elders are recommending him to the members for this position. This role requires a vote of the church members, so please prayerfully attend this meeting to vote. Thank you!

Save the Date!  
You’re invited to our Joni and Friends launch party next Sunday, March 8th right after service! We’re excited to welcome special guest Traci Johnson, who will share what this incredible ministry is all about, and her story of how it has touched her life. She will also be sharing how you can be part of making a difference through upcoming opportunities like Family Retreat this summer and beyond. Be inspired and discover how God can use you through this ministry!  Pizza and dessert will be served, so bring your appetite and stay after church to celebrate all that God is doing!

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can also check the church website; a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday (2-22-26) totaled $5,004.11. Designated gifts were as follows: $700 Rivers of Mercy, ROM and $470 Mike/ Grace ROM.

Memory Verses

March:
Jeremiah 29:11

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

February
27 – Jaxson Bartlett
28 – Joy Parsons, Alina Tricolici


4 – James Leonovich
5 – Rachel Cobb
7 – Mike Stafford
15 – John Burek
16 – Yashua Stafford
17 – Lexi Bartlett, Lily Strafford
18 – Emily Leonovich
19 – Chris Johnson, Derek Postema
20 – Noah Hunting, Sue Tidlund
21 – Amber Wahlstrom
23 – Lin Diemand
24 – Tim Hunting, Kayleigh Jackman
29 – Celeste Ziemba

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
James 1:17

NCC Covenant Signing
This past November, at our annual meeting, our church voted to join the North Central Collective (NCC), a group of churches partnering together to strengthen our churches and advance the kingdom of God in our region. To make our partnership official, the Elders of our church along with representatives from our partner churches will be signing the NCC covenant agreement during the service on Sunday March 15th. We will read the covenant aloud and then sign it together, signifying our partnership for the work of the Kingdom. We are so thankful for this partnership and look forward to all that it will bring in the future! For more information about the NCC please visit https://northcentralcollective.com/

Congregational Meeting & Potluck
Please join us after the service on Sunday March 1, for our quarterly congregational meeting and potluck. Bring a dish to share and come hear an update from the ministries of our church!
All members are highly encouraged to attend as we will be voting on the assistant treasurer position. Dan Leonovich has volunteered, and the Elders are recommending him to the members for this position. This role requires a vote of the church members, so please prayerfully attend this meeting to vote. Thank you!

Save the Date!  
You’re invited to our Joni and Friends launch party on Sunday, March 8th right after service! We’re excited to welcome special guest Traci Johnson, who will share what this incredible ministry is all about, and her story of how it has touched her life. She will also be sharing how you can be part of making a difference through upcoming opportunities like Family Retreat this summer and beyond. Be inspired and discover how God can use you through this ministry!  Pizza and dessert will be served, so bring your appetite and stay after church to celebrate all that God is doing!

NCC Covenant Signing
This past November, at our annual meeting, our church voted to join the North Central Collective (NCC), a group of churches partnering together to strengthen our churches and advance the kingdom of God in our region. To make our partnership official, the Elders of our church along with representatives from our partner churches will be signing the NCC covenant agreement during the service on Sunday March 15th. We will read the covenant aloud and then sign it together, signifying our partnership for the work of the Kingdom. We are so thankful for this partnership and look forward to all that it will bring in the future!
For more information about the NCC please visit https://northcentralcollective.com/

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can also check the church website; a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday (2-15) totaled $4,751. Designated gifts were as follows: $300 Rivers of Mercy, $100 Mike/ Grace ROM, and $45 Food Pantry. 

Memory Verses

February:
Primary - Matthew 22:37
Juniors - Matthew 22:37-39

March:
Jeremiah 29:11

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

1 – Jean Willmann
2 - Caleb Hall
5- Kevin Howe
14 – Vera Urgina
15 – Steve Adams, Gavin Slaymaker
16 - Amy Hill
20 – Michelle Bamnjo, Hudson Sargent
22 – Robin Stafford, Keziah Bamnjo
23 – Linda Jablonski
27 – Jaxson Bartlett
28 – Joy Parsons, Alina Tricolici

Congregational Meeting & Potluck
Please join us after the service on Sunday March 1, for our quarterly congregational meeting and potluck. Bring a dish to share and come hear an update from the ministries of our church!
All members are highly encouraged to attend as we will be voting on the assistant treasurer position. Dan Leonovich has volunteered, and the Elders are recommending him to the members for this position. This role requires a vote of the church members, so please prayerfully attend this meeting to vote. Thank you!

Thank you from the Jackman’s 
Matthew and his family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love for his 19th birthday. He read every comment in the cards from church and had a really nice birthday.

Save the Date!  
You’re invited to our Joni and Friends launch party on Sunday, March 8th right after service! We’re excited to welcome special guest Traci Johnson, who will share what this incredible ministry is all about, and her story of how it has touched her life. She will also be sharing how you can be part of making a difference through upcoming opportunities like Family Retreat this summer and beyond. Be inspired and discover how God can use you through this ministry!  Pizza and dessert will be served, so bring your appetite and stay after church to celebrate all that God is doing!

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can also check the church website; a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $4,825.25. Designated gifts were as follows: $300 Mike/ Grace ROM, $300 Sara's Lift, $200 Rivers of Mercy, and $20 Food Pantry. 

Memory Verses

February:
Primary - Matthew 22:37
Juniors - Matthew 22:37-39

March:
Jeremiah 29:11

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

1 – Jean Willmann
2 - Caleb Hall
5- Kevin Howe
14 – Vera Urgina
15 – Steve Adams, Gavin Slaymaker
16 - Amy Hill
20 – Michelle Bamnjo, Hudson Sargent
22 – Robin Stafford, Keziah Bamnjo
23 – Linda Jablonski
27 – Jaxson Bartlett
28 – Joy Parsons, Alina Tricolici

Homeschool Group Science Fair,
You are invited to stop by the Classical Conversations science fair this Tuesday afternoon to check out one of the projects our homeschool group has been working on and help celebrate the hard work of the Challenge A class. 3-4pm in the Fellowship Hall!

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can also check the church website; a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

For Men Only Support Group
We are all well aware of the constant pressure and temptation toward immorality in the world around us. This is particularly acute for men which is why a new support group has been started in the NCC (a collective of churches in our area of which NLBC is a part). For Men Only (FMO) provides a confidential place of acceptance dedicated to the study of a Christian curriculum with an end goal of healthy sexuality.
We know life can be hard, and that you or someone you know needs the support we are offering. Don’t wait and attempt to gut it out alone. Let us help. For more information or to register for FMO please Josh Massie jmassie14@gmail.com.

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this Sunday (2-1-26) totaled $5,166.97. Designated gifts were as follows: $200 Mike/ Grace ROM, $200 Rivers of Mercy, $20 Food Pantry, and $25 Connor Japan Trip. 

Memory Verses

February:
Primary - Matthew 22:37
Juniors - Matthew 22:37-39

March:
Jeremiah 29:11

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

1 – Jean Willmann
2 - Caleb Hall
5- Kevin Howe
14 – Vera Urgina
15 – Steve Adams, Gavin Slaymaker
16 - Amy Hill
20 – Michelle Bamnjo, Hudson Sargent
22 – Robin Stafford
23 – Linda Jablonski
27 – Jaxson Bartlett
28 – Joy Parsons, Alina Tricolici

Valentines Packets 
All families with children ages 3-12 please grab a "Valentine activity pack" in the back of the sanctuary after the service. Inside are activities for families to grow in their faith, plant scripture in their hearts and have fun together! One pack per family please.

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can can also check the church website; a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

For Men Only Support Group
We are all well aware of the constant pressure and temptation toward immorality in the world around us. This is particularly acute for men which is why a new support group has been started in the NCC (a collective of churches in our area of which NLBC is a part). For Men Only (FMO) provides a confidential place of acceptance dedicated to the study of a Christian curriculum with an end goal of healthy sexuality.
We know life can be hard, and that you or someone you know needs the support we are offering. Don’t wait and attempt to gut it out alone. Let us help. For more information or to register for FMO please Josh Massie jmassie14@gmail.com.

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $5,534.43. Designated gifts were as follows: $20 Food Pantry, $88 Family Night, $805 Rivers of Mercy, $495 Mike/ Grace ROM, $1,100 Sara's Lift. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For Connor Lafleur as he continues his trip to Tokyo to find connections for his future ministry there.

For Maghen Samal and her family. Her dad, Steve, is now on hospice and is declining.

Ella Bartlett has a routine doctor's appointment in Boston on Wednesday.

For our nation, its leaders, and all of the unrest in various places, particularly Minneapolis.

Pray for unbelievers in our lives, especially those within our families.

For the Boron family. Pastor Ted Boron's wife, Janet, passed away recently. The Boron's adult daughter needs full-time care which Janet had been doing.

Our Ministry of the Week is the Social Committee. We coordinate the food for any church events where food will be served. Janice Abbott and Judy Todd are co-chairs.  Members: Edith Black, Rachel and Emily Cobb, Joann Drumgool, Jeff, Heather, and Sam Kaminski, Nikki and Robin Stafford, Aaron, Stacey, and Ella Tidlund.

Our church of the week is the Congregation of Grace in Turners Falls and their pastor, Verne Williams.

For the underground Iranian church. For those who are persecuted for their faith.  For spiritual awakening in Iran. That Christ's love would transfer the hearts of mullahs and government leaders.
For our Global Outreach partners:

January
30 - Rita Deyo

1 – Jean Willmann
2 - Caleb Hall
5- Kevin Howe
14 – Vera Urgina
15 – Steve Adams, Gavin Slaymaker
16 - Amy Hill
20 – Michelle Bamnjo, Hudson Sargent
22 – Robin Stafford
23 – Linda Jablonski
27 – Jaxson Bartlett
28 – Joy Parsons, Alina Tricolici 

Church Cancellations
In the event we have to cancel church due to inclement weather, an email will be sent out before 8 am. You can can also check the church website, a banner announcement will be posted on the home page. www.nlbcma.org

For Men Only Support Group
We are all well aware of the constant pressure and temptation toward immorality in the world around us. This is particularly acute for men which is why a new support group has been started in the NCC (a collective of churches in our area of which NLBC is a part). For Men Only (FMO) provides a confidential place of acceptance dedicated to the study of a Christian curriculum with an end goal of healthy sexuality.
We know life can be hard, and that you or someone you know needs the support we are offering. Don’t wait and attempt to gut it out alone. Let us help. For more information or to register for FMO please Josh Massie jmassie14@gmail.com.

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $5,870.25. Of that amount designated gifts were as follows: $300 Rivers of Mercy, $200 Sara's Lift, $115 Food Pantry, $100 Mike/ Grace ROM, and $25 Connor's Trip (Japan). 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

For our Sunday service and for Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For Connor Lafleur as he continues his time in Japan. He has made a great connection with the Tokyo Bible Church and Pastor Shiro Nakayama.

For our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. 

For Marion and Jimmy Browning and Kevin Howe, who have returned to college studies. Kevin is seeking God's will about whether he should stay on as staff at the Planted Program.

For those dealing with ongoing health issues: Danielle Buonaugurio, Bob Tidlund, John Burek, Matthew Jackman, John Drumgool, Carl McConchie, Steve Samal, Tina LaClaire, Alison Burek, Paul Burek, Ella Bartlett, Lucas Hunting, Charlie Buonaugurio, and Juliana Jackman. Pray for their caregivers as well.

For our senior members: Jean Willmann, Charlotte Abbott, Edie Field, Fay Bennett, Joy Parsons, Bill and Karen Czerwonka.

Our GO Partner of the week is the Bengali Christian Ministry. Bengali Christian Ministry seeks to mobilize, train, and support Bengali Christian leaders in Kolkata and the state of West Bengal in India, and to support word and deed local ministries in Kolkata and West Bengal.

Our church of the week is the Greenfield Russian Evangelical Baptist Church.

Our ministry of the week is the Special Needs Care Team which exists to come alongside individuals and families impacted by disability to intentionally support them in growing and becoming active followers of Jesus Christ.  Members are:
Mariah Jackman (chair), Mary Burek, Andrea Garvey, Tonia Jackman

3 - Bob Tidlund
7 - Dan Leonovich
11 - Emily Brownlee, John Drumgool
13 - Rob Rice
14 - Aliyah Bartlett
22 - Andy Howard
23 - Kathy Burek
24 - Matthew Jackman
28 - Charlotte Abbott
30 - Rita Deyo

Membership Class
Are you interested in learning about membership at NLBC? Are you already a member but would like to a refresher or learn more about what it means to be a church member? There will be a 5-week membership class starting January 18th during the Sunday school hour. This class is open to all but only those who have been baptized as believers and are over the age of 12 can become members of NLBC. If you are interested in joining the class please let Dan Sargent know. Thank you!

New Praise Song
There will be a new song showing up soon during praise and worship. Click on the link below to familiarize yourself with it.
https://youtu.be/KF5knxzkCVw

For Men Only Support Group
We are all well aware of the constant pressure and temptation toward immorality in the world around us. This is particularly acute for men which is why a new support group has been started in the NCC (a collective of churches in our area of which NLBC is a part). For Men Only (FMO) provides a confidential place of acceptance dedicated to the study of a Christian curriculum with an end goal of healthy sexuality.
We know life can be hard, and that you or someone you know needs the support we are offering. Don’t wait and attempt to gut it out alone. Let us help. For more information or to register for FMO please Josh Massie jmassie14@gmail.com.

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $4,160.03. Designated gifts were as follows: $300 Rivers of Mercy and $20 Food Pantry. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

That God knows our names and cares deeply about each of us.

That Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For Connor Lafleur as his trip to Japan continues. Connor feels that he will be able to work with the Tokyo Bible Church as a ministry partner. His time at Tokyo Bible Church will be ending and he will be moving to a different section of Tokyo to see where he might be able to start a church plant sometime in the future.

For John Burek as he recovers from a broken hip. He is home and having physical therapy.

The 52nd anniversary of Roe vs Wade is January 22. The 53rd annual March for Life is being held on January 23 in Washington, DC.

For the women attending the scrapbooking retreat at Pine Brook Camp this weekend.

Pray for the membership class that will be starting Sunday: for those taking the class, as well as Pastor Daniel as he leads it. For wisdom through the process of membership for the Elders and potential members.
For the Bunnell and Williams families.  Amy's dad, William Bunnell, passed away recently.

For Charlotte Abbott as she continues to recover from her hospitalization due to heart related issues.

For the teens and kids with ongoing health concerns:  Ella Bartlett, Lucas Hunting, Matthew Jackman, Juliana Jackman, Michael Stafford-Gabe and Lily's son), and Charlie Buonaugurio. Pray for their caregivers as well.
Pray for our country.

Our ministry focus this week is the Children's Ministry.  The NLBC Children's Ministry continues to work towards supporting the families of our church in the responsibility to raise their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.  Pray that God would give the children of our church a genuine and lasting faith in Christ that would transform their hearts and lives. The team members are Kris Bartlett (chair), Mariah Jackman, Tonia Jackman, Edith Black, Jessie Sargent and Jami Bartlett.
Our church of the week is the Providence Moldovan Baptist Church in Greenfield.  The pastor is Simon Placinta.  Also pray for the Providence Christian Academy run by the church.  
Our GO Partner of the week is Mike and Grace Stafford.  While Mike's health issues have been taken care of, Grace continues to deal with ongoing health problems.  Pray for wisdom in discerning God's leading for their future at Rivers of Mercy Children's Home.
For our Global Outreach partners:

• Bengali Christian Ministry
• Mike and Grace Stafford
• The Kimballs
• Springfield Rescue Mission
• Rivers of Mercy Children's Home
• PathWay College Outreach Ministries-Santiago and Jackie Olortegui

3 - Bob Tidlund
7 - Dan Leonovich
11 - Emily Brownlee, John Drumgool
13 - Rob Rice
14 - Aliyah Bartlett
22 - Andy Howard
23 - Kathy Burek
24 - Matthew Jackman
25 - Glenn Gangne
28 - Charlotte Abbott
30 - Rita Deyo

Membership Class
Are you interested in learning about membership at NLBC? Are you already a member but would like to a refresher or learn more about what it means to be a church member? There will be a 5-week membership class starting January 18th during the Sunday school hour. This class is open to all but only those who have been baptized as believers and are over the age of 12 can become members of NLBC. If you are interested in joining the class please let Dan Sargent know. Thank you!

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/


Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Offering
2026 Budget - Yearly $193,802
                       - Weekly $3,727

Offering - The offering for first Sunday of the New Year (1-4-26) totaled $3,185.73. Designated gifts were as follows: $370 Food Pantry, $300 Rivers of Mercy, and $150 Sara's Lift. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

That we are members of the Kingdom of God.

That we are taught from God's Word every week.

That Jesus is with us every step of every day.

For the love and care we have for each other in our church family.

3 - Bob Tidlund
7 - Dan Leonovich
11 - Emily Brownlee, John Drumgool
13 - Rob Rice
14 - Aliyah Bartlett
22 - Andy Howard
23 - Kathy Burek
24 - Matthew Jackman
25 - Glenn Gangne
30 - Rita Deyo

Membership Class
Are you interested in learning about membership at NLBC? Are you already a member but would like to a refresher or learn more about what it means to be a church member? There will be a 5-week membership class starting January 18th during the Sunday school hour. This class is open to all but only those who have been baptized as believers and are over the age of 12 can become members of NLBC. If you are interested in joining the class please let Dan Sargent know. Thank you!

Joni and Friends New England Family Retreat 2026 
Joni and Friends Family Retreats are an incredible opportunity for families affected by disability to rest, connect, and be encouraged in a loving Christian community. These retreats offer meaningful worship, biblical teaching, fun activities for all ages, and built-in support so the whole family can truly enjoy time together. Applications for 2026 Family Retreats will open in January, and spots fill up very quickly!!  New England Retreat Dates & Locations: •June 7–11 New England Family Retreat 1 – Adult Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 9–13 New England Family Retreat 2 – Kids Week Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center Greenfield, New Hampshire •August 17–21 New England Family Retreat 3 – All-Ages Week Hume New England Monterey, Massachusetts If you have questions or are considering attending, please reach out to Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) She would love to connect with you, answer any questions, and help you get the information you’ll need when registration opens. To learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreats, visit: https://joniandfriends.org/family-retreat/information-for-families/


Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $3,865.28. Designated gifts were as follows: $220 Food Pantry and $75 Mike/ Grace ROM.
For the year (2025) total monetary giving was $207,028 while our budget was $190,624. In addition to these designated gifts totaled $48,929. Included in this amount was $29,145 for missions, $4,580 for Food Pantry, and $10,872 for Sara's lift. The remainder was for various other designated items. As a church we have been blessed by those who have given monetarily in supporting the church and the various outreaches of NLBC.

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken
Sparkling water
Chunky clam chowder
Canned mixed fruit
Canned pears
Sweetened Applesauce
Gravy

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

Happy New Year! Praise God for His provisions through the last year.

That we have eternal life and a home in Heaven.

Danielle had her last chemo treatment on December 30. Rich and Charlie were able to be there with her, and Charlie helped his mom ring the bell!

Pastor McConchie is home recovering from pneumonia and a cellulitis infection in one of his legs.  

3 - Bob Tidlund
7 - Dan Leonovich
11 - Emily Brownlee, John Drumgool
13 - Rob Rice
14 - Aliyah Bartlett
15 - Mary Dumas
22 - Andy Howard
23 - Kathy Burek
24 - Matthew Jackman
25 - Glenn Gangne
30 - Rita Deyo 

Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday (12-21-2025) totaled $6,805.53. Designated gifts were as follows: $1,600 Sara's Lift, $470 Mike/Grace ROM, $500 Rivers of Mercy, $85 Family Night, and $20 Food Pantry.

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

3 - Judy Todd, Justin Hunting, Becky Cobb
8 - Connor Bartlett
12 - Don Robinson
20 - Trevor Jackman
21 - Lori Black
22 - Hannah Brussel
25 - Seth Bartlett
28 - Millie Postema 

Christmas Eve Service
Join us on Christmas Eve at 6:30pm as we worship our Savior and the Light of the World together!
Who could you invite to hear the good news that Jesus was born?


Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Ministry Opportunities
We have some areas of service and ministry within the church that need to be filled. Would you pray about how you could help?

• Assistant Treasurer: We are looking for an Assistant Treasurer to help with the finances of the church. You must be a member to serve in this role. Please see Derek Postema with any questions about the position.
• Social Committee: We are also looking for anyone interested in serving on the Social Committee. This would involve helping with events including set-up, take down, prep, etc. This role is open to all, please see Judy Todd or Janice Abbott with any questions.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday (12-14-25) totaled $5,631.38 of that amount designated gifts were as follows: $50 Mike/ Grace ROM, $65 Food Pantry, and $250 Sara's Lift. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

JESUS is the Reason for the Season. Praise God for His wonderful plan that brought Jesus to Earth and that He saved us from the penalty of sin and death and now He sits at the right hand of God and is our intercessor to the Father.

That our God is a good and gracious King.

That we are taught from God’s word every week and that we are able to have Bibles in our possession.

For the fun and fellowship at Family Night this week.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For those missing loved ones during the holidays.

For all the details of the Christmas skit that will be taking place during the service on Sunday morning to come together.

For Connor Lafleur as he prepares for his trip to Japan, Australia, and Washington State. He will be leaving on December 31st. Pray that he will be able to get all the final details of the trip worked out.

Steve Samal (Maghen's dad) fell and broke his hip and needed surgery. Pray for his recovery and wisdom for Maghen and the family for best treatment and care.

Danielle did not have her last chemo treatment this week because she wasn't feeling well last week and her oncologist decided to delay treatment. She is looking forward to spending time with Rich and Charlie over the Christmas break.

For Mike and Grace Stafford as they seek God's plan for the next steps in their ministry at ROM.  Pray for more staff at ROM. Pray for Emmis and Kristin as they run the ministry. Pray for more financial support as costs for everything have risen and the funds are short every month.

Pray that any visitors during this Christmas season will understand the true meaning of Christmas and their need for a Savior. Is there someone you can invite to our Christmas services?

For those dealing with ongoing health issues: Danielle Buonaugurio, Bob Tidlund, John Burek, Matthew Jackman, John Drumgool, Carl McConchie, Steve Samal, Tina LaClaire, Alison Burek, Shelley Snow, Paul Burek, Ella Bartlett, Lucas Hunting, Charlie Buonaugurio, and Juliana Jackman.  Pray for their caregivers as well.


Our ministry focus this week is prayer meeting.  Prayer meeting is at 7 o’clock on Wednesday nights. A devotional is given by Pastor Daniel or one of the other elders. Then praises and prayer requests are shared and there is a time of prayer.

Our church of the week is Garden Chapel in the Middletown/Lancaster area of Pennsylvania. Pastor Mark Brussel leads the congregation.

3 - Judy Todd, Justin Hunting, Becky Cobb
8 - Connor Bartlett
12 - Don Robinson
20 - Trevor Jackman
21 - Lori Black
22 - Hannah Brussel
25 - Seth Bartlett
28 - Millie Postema 

Christmas Eve Service
Join us on Christmas Eve at 6:30pm as we worship our Savior and the Light of the World. 


Flower Arrangements
The flower arrangements on the communion table are in memory of Sara Robinson.


Hello parents of children at NLBC!
We wanted to invite your children to participate in this year's Christmas skit which will be held during the church service on Sunday, December 21st. The skit this year is a very simple narrative of the Christmas story as told in Matthew and Luke and the youth group teens will be narrating and acting out each part. We'd like to invite the rest of the children to participate by dressing up as young shepherds, sheep and angels for the manger scene. We'll have helpers available to get the kids up on the stage and back down again. The play will end in a song that the cast, kids and congregation will sing together.
Our first step is to find out which children would like to participate, and if so, what they'd like to dress up as: Shepherd, sheep or angel. We plan to try costumes on the children during church on Sunday December 14th, then send the costumes home in a bag so they can wear their costumes to church on Sunday the 21st. We'll have designated seats for kids and their families at the front of the church.
Please text (413) 230-9419 or email Kris Bartlett: bartlett.kristine@gmail.com by Wednesday the 10th if your child would like to participate or if you have any questions. Thank you!  


Church Family Movie Outing 
Join us for a special church family outing to see David, the new film from Angel Studios. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a powerful biblical story together and invite friends or neighbors. Date: Thursday, December 18th Time: 6:50 PM Location: Cinemark Theater in Hadley. Snacks and treats will be provided. Tickets can be purchased through the Cinemark website or through Angel Studios at:
https://www.angel.com/tickets/david/showtime/598197738/seats/map
Contact Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) or Tonia Jackman (413-325-5238) for questions and to let them know you're coming. Please let us know if you would like to join but have a financial hardship that would keep you from joining, we would love to help! We hope you’ll join us for this fun night out!

Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Ministry Opportunities
We have some areas of service and ministry within the church that need to be filled. Would you pray about how you could help?

• Assistant Treasurer: We are looking for an Assistant Treasurer to help with the finances of the church. You must be a member to serve in this role. Please see Derek Postema with any questions about the position.
• Social Committee: We are also looking for anyone interested in serving on the Social Committee. This would involve helping with events including set-up, take down, prep, etc. This role is open to all, please see Judy Todd or Janice Abbott with any questions.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $4,013.03. Designated gifts were as follows: $500 Sara's Lift and $20 Food Pantry. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

That Jesus came to redeem us, and we will spend eternity with Him in Heaven.

For all of God‘s creation, including each of us.

That God answered Connor Lafleur’s prayers about a smooth transition of leaving his job at UMass as he prepares for full-time ministry.

Two new volunteers have signed up to help at the Food pantry! Nikki Stafford and Deb Burek.

For the gingerbread house event we had on Sunday and all the creative houses that were decorated. Thank you to Jessica Bartlett for being in charge of the event this year and anyone else that worked on the event.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel who will be preaching.
Pray that any visitors during this Christmas season will understand the true meaning of Christmas and their need for a Savior.

3 - Judy Todd, Justin Hunting, Becky Cobb
8 - Connor Bartlett
12 - Don Robinson
20 - Trevor Jackman
21 - Lori Black
22 - Hannah Brussel
25 - Seth Bartlett
28 - Millie Postema 

Flower Arrangements
The flower arrangements on the communion table are in memory of Sara Robinson.


Hello parents of children at NLBC!
We wanted to invite your children to participate in this year's Christmas skit which will be held during the church service on Sunday, December 21st. The skit this year is a very simple narrative of the Christmas story as told in Matthew and Luke and the youth group teens will be narrating and acting out each part. We'd like to invite the rest of the children to participate by dressing up as young shepherds, sheep and angels for the manger scene. We'll have helpers available to get the kids up on the stage and back down again. The play will end in a song that the cast, kids and congregation will sing together.
Our first step is to find out which children would like to participate, and if so, what they'd like to dress up as: Shepherd, sheep or angel. We plan to try costumes on the children during church on Sunday December 14th, then send the costumes home in a bag so they can wear their costumes to church on Sunday the 21st. We'll have designated seats for kids and their families at the front of the church.
Please text (413) 230-9419 or email Kris Bartlett: bartlett.kristine@gmail.com by Wednesday the 10th if your child would like to participate or if you have any questions. Thank you!  


Gingerbread House Decorating!
Don't forget to decorate your gingerbread house this Sunday right after church at 11:30am. No Sunday School. If you did not sign up for a house you can still join for a pizza lunch and fellowship.
Pizza will be provided by the church with the help of the Social Committee and will be around 12:30.
Please bring candy to share for the "community candy" table and then any specialty candies you might want for your own! This is a free church sponsored event, but candy donations are helpful.

Marriage Tune-Up Webinar 
December 10th All married couples are invited to a free, 45-minute online “Marriage Tune-Up” on Wednesday, December 10 at 8:00 p.m. (ET). This practical, faith-based workshop will be led by Willie Batson, the same marriage coach who led the recent Joni and Friends marriage retreat attended by four of our NLBC couples. Willie Batson is a Christian marriage coach and longtime pastor with decades of experience teaching, counseling, and guiding couples toward healthier, Christ-centered relationships. He blends biblical wisdom with simple, practical tools to help couples understand each other better, strengthen communication, and build a lasting friendship rooted in faith. During this webinar, Willie will introduce helpful “preventive maintenance” habits along with the Better Love and 5 Love Languages assessments for those who want a personalized plan for continued growth. Format: Live online via Zoom Date/Time: December 10, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. (ET) Cost: Free For more information or to register, visit: https://williebatson.com/marriage-tune-up-webinar/
Questions: contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014

Church Family Movie Outing 
Join us for a special church family outing to see David, the new film from Angel Studios. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a powerful biblical story together and invite friends or neighbors. Date: Thursday, December 18th Time: 6:50 PM Location: Cinemark Theater in Hadley. Snacks and treats will be provided. Tickets can be purchased through the Cinemark website or through Angel Studios at:
https://www.angel.com/tickets/david/showtime/598197738/seats/map
Contact Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) or Tonia Jackman (413-325-5238) for questions and to let them know you're coming. Please let us know if you would like to join but have a financial hardship that would keep you from joining, we would love to help! We hope you’ll join us for this fun night out!

Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Ministry Opportunities
We have some areas of service and ministry within the church that need to be filled. Would you pray about how you could help?

• Assistant Treasurer: We are looking for an Assistant Treasurer to help with the finances of the church. You must be a member to serve in this role. Please see Derek Postema with any questions about the position.
• Social Committee: We are also looking for anyone interested in serving on the Social Committee. This would involve helping with events including set-up, take down, prep, etc. This role is open to all, please see Judy Todd or Janice Abbott with any questions.
• Food Pantry: There is need for another volunteer for the food pantry. Let Rob or Karen Rice know if you are interested.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering -The offering for this past Sunday (11-30-25) totaled $3,971.03. Designated gifts were as follows: $120 Food Pantry and $200 Mike/ Grace ROM. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

Jesus’ life and death brings us life, hope, and salvation. He gave all He could give for each of us. Thank you Jesus!

Danielle Bounaugurio continues to do well with her chemo treatments. Her last treatment is December 17!

Thank you to everyone who decorated the church for Christmas!

For the beauty of God’s creation covered in snow.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel who will be preaching.

For Alison Burek who will be having surgery on December 8th to remove the cancerous spot on her kidney.

Pray that any visitors during this Christmas season will understand the true meaning of Christmas and their need for a Savior.

Pray about who you could ask to come with you to one of our Christmas services.

Sunday is the second Sunday in Advent. The Candle of Peace is lit.

For those dealing with ongoing health issues: Danielle Buonaugurio, Bob Tidlund, John Burek, Matthew Jackman, John Drumgool, Carl McConchie, Steve Samal, Tina LaClaire, Alison Burek, Paul Burek, Ella Bartlett, Lucas Hunting, Charlie Buonaugurio, and Juliana Jackman.  Pray for their caregivers as well.

For our senior members: Jean Willmann, Charlotte Abbott, Edie Field, Fay Bennett, Anna Jean Marsh, Joy Parsons, Bill and Karen Czerwonka.

Our ministry focus this week are the men’s and women’s discipleship groups.

Our church of the week is Erving Congregational and their pastor Vic Miller.

Our Global Partner of the week is Lee and Lauren Browning. Pray for them as Lee steps down from Ethnos ministry and seeks to find work and help Ethnos transition his roles.

For our Global Outreach partners:

• Bengali Christian Ministry
• Lee and Lauren Browning
• Mike and Grace Stafford
• Springfield Rescue Mission
• The Kimballs
• Rivers of Mercy Children's Home
• PathWay College Outreach Ministries-Santiago and Jackie Olortegui

3 - Judy Todd, Justin Hunting, Becky Cobb
8 - Connor Bartlett
12 - Don Robinson
20 - Trevor Jackman
21 - Lori Black
22 - Hannah Brussel
25 - Seth Bartlett
28 - Millie Postema 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We hope this message finds you rejoicing in our King this week. As we begin our new sermon series tracing the storyline of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, we wanted to recap our foundational starting point: understanding who God is as our Creator King and what that means for how we live today.

Summary:
The sermon explored the opening chapters of Genesis, revealing that the entire Bible is about God, the sovereign King, and how His creation is meant to relate to Him. Just as we wouldn't start watching Romeo and Juliet in the third act, we need to begin at the beginning of God's grand narrative to truly understand the Christmas story we'll celebrate in a few weeks and every other part of Scripture. Through Genesis 1-2, we discovered three crucial truths: God simply IS (He is self-existent and needs nothing), we are His creation (made in His image and belonging entirely to Him), and we have been given a mandate (to live in complete dependence on Him, seeking His will in all things). This has profound implications for our spiritual lives today: we don't exist for ourselves or to define our own purpose. We exist to know God, worship Him, and follow His will as He has revealed it to us in His Word and supremely through Jesus Christ.

Takeaways:
- God is the self-existing, self-sufficient King who created everything out of nothing by His word alone. He didn't create because He needed us, but freely chose to make creation as a visible expression of His kingdom. This means our lives aren't about us, they're about Him.
- Being made in God's image means we belong to Him completely, like a coin stamped with the king's image. We are not our own. Our existence is a continual reminder that we came from God, belong to God, and live in God's kingdom under His loving authority.
- Our purpose in life is to continually seek God, know Him through His Word, and follow His will in dependence on Him. Life becomes confusing and broken when we try to define ourselves apart from our Creator. True meaning and wholeness come only when we are God-centered in all we do, which is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ.

This week, we encourage you to reflect on these questions: Do you truly know your King and Creator through faith in Jesus? Are you living to know Him more and follow His will? In what ways have you been trying to define life on your own terms rather than His? Bring these questions before the Lord in prayer, confessing where you've confused the roles of creature and Creator, and ask for His grace to walk as you were made to walk: in fellowship with Him.

May you find joy this week in knowing that the transcendent God who spoke the universe into existence has made Himself known to you and pursues relationship with you through Christ.

In His service,
The Elders at NLBC

Gingerbread House Decorating!
Sunday December 7th right after church at 11:30am. No Sunday School. Please sign your family up for a house (1 house per family/household) no later than Sunday November 30th. These houses are made to order based on those who have signed up, so if you have not signed up by November 30th then unfortunately you will not have a house to decorate, BUT you can still join for a pizza lunch and fellowship.
Pizza will be provided by the church with the help of the Social Committee and will be around 12:30.
Please bring candy to share for the "community candy" table and then any specialty candies you might want for your own! Please contact Jessica Bartlett 413-626-3497 or use the sign-up sheet in the back of the church to "order" a house. This is a free church sponsored event, but candy donations are helpful.

Marriage Tune-Up Webinar 
December 10th All married couples are invited to a free, 45-minute online “Marriage Tune-Up” on Wednesday, December 10 at 8:00 p.m. (ET). This practical, faith-based workshop will be led by Willie Batson, the same marriage coach who led the recent Joni and Friends marriage retreat attended by four of our NLBC couples. Willie Batson is a Christian marriage coach and longtime pastor with decades of experience teaching, counseling, and guiding couples toward healthier, Christ-centered relationships. He blends biblical wisdom with simple, practical tools to help couples understand each other better, strengthen communication, and build a lasting friendship rooted in faith. During this webinar, Willie will introduce helpful “preventive maintenance” habits along with the Better Love and 5 Love Languages assessments for those who want a personalized plan for continued growth. Format: Live online via Zoom Date/Time: December 10, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. (ET) Cost: Free For more information or to register, visit: https://williebatson.com/marriage-tune-up-webinar/
Questions: contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014

Church Family Movie Outing 
Join us for a special church family outing to see David, the new film from Angel Studios. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a powerful biblical story together and invite friends or neighbors. Date: Thursday, December 18th Time: 6:50 PM Location: Cinemark Theater in Hadley Snacks and treats will be provided. Tickets can be purchased through the Cinemark website or through Angel Studios at:
https://www.angel.com/tickets/david/showtime/598197738/seats/map
Contact Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) or Tonia Jackman (413-325-5238) for questions and to let them know you're coming. Please let us know if you would like to join but have a financial hardship that would keep you from joining, we would love to help! We hope you’ll join us for this fun night out!

Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.

Ministry Opportunities
We have some areas of service and ministry within the church that need to be filled. Would you pray about how you could help?

• Assistant Treasurer: We are looking for an Assistant Treasurer to help with the finances of the church. You must be a member to serve in this role. Please see Derek Postema with any questions about the position.
• Social Committee: We are also looking for anyone interested in serving on the Social Committee. This would involve helping with events including set-up, take down, prep, etc. This role is open to all, please see Judy Todd or Janice Abbott with any questions.
• Food Pantry: There is need for another volunteer for the food pantry. Let Rob or Karen Rice know if you are interested.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering -The offering for this past Sunday, (11-23) totaled $3,790.53. Designated gifts were as follows: $150 Sara's Lift, $123 Food Pantry, $500 Rivers of Marcy, and $395 Mike/ Grace ROM.

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

We have so much to be thankful for. Praise God for all the blessings that He has given each one of us.

That God is with us every moment of every day.

For the Holy Spirit who guides us.

For the Thanksgiving Eve service where we praised our great God in song and testimonies together.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

For John Burek, who fell and broke his hip. 

For those missing loved ones.

For our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ.

Donald Robinson is now in Florida for the winter.

For those dealing with ongoing health issues: Danielle Buonaugurio, Bob Tidlund, John Burek, Matthew Jackman, John Drumgool, Carl McConchie, Steve Samal, Tina LaClaire, Alison Burek, Paul Burek, Ella Bartlett, Lucas Hunting, Charlie Buonaugurio, and Juliana Jackman.  Pray for their caregivers as well.

For Connor LaFleur who continues to seek and confirm God's calling to serve full time in Japan. He will be traveling to Japan in January to spend time with church leaders and potential church planting mentors.

Our ministry focus this week is the Keep the Fire Lit (KTFL) group led by Jim and Cindy Browning.

Our church of the week is Moore's Corner Church and their pastor, Michael Grant.

Our GO Partner of the week is Mike and Grace Stafford.  Mike and Grace are home for a couple of months while they seek God's guidance on whether to continue to serve at Rivers of Mercy Children's Home.

29 – Candace Jernigan
30 – Olivia Hunting

DECEMBER

3 - Judy Todd, Justin Hunting, Becky Cobb
8 - Connor Bartlett
12 - Don Robinson
20 - Trevor Jackman
21 - Lori Black
22 - Hannah Brussel
25 - Seth Bartlett
28 - Millie Postema 

Dear Church Family,

We hope this email finds you growing in grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Here is a follow up on our recent study of Paul's letter to Philemon, a brief but powerful book that reveals how the gospel transforms everything it touches.

Summary: 
The sermon explored how Paul's personal letter to Philemon about his runaway slave Onesimus is far more than ancient correspondence—it's a blueprint for how Christ's transforming power works through our whole self and out into our whole world. We discovered that true transformation doesn't stop at salvation but flows outward in concentric circles: from transformed individuals, to a transformed church community, and ultimately to transformed societies. Paul's wisdom in addressing the slavery issue wasn't through political force or rebellion, but through the radical power of the gospel to change hearts, relationships, and eventually entire cultural structures. This has profound implications for how we live out our faith today—not keeping our salvation under a basket, but allowing Christ to transform everything about us for His glory and the good of those around us.

Takeaways:
- Our faith in Christ must become "effective"—salvation is just the beginning, not the end goal. We are called to continual sanctification, growing more like Jesus in every area of our lives, motivated by living "for the sake of Christ" rather than checking a box for heaven.
- The church is a radically transformed community where worldly barriers, class distinctions, and social divisions are demolished. We are called to see each other as beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, serving one another humbly as Jesus served us, regardless of background or status.
- Lasting cultural transformation happens not through political activism alone, but through the gospel changing individuals who then live as salt and light in every sphere of life—our homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods—spreading the good news so others can be transformed by Christ as well.

As you reflect on this message this week, ask yourself: Where is the Holy Spirit calling me to deeper transformation? How can I more intentionally invest in our church family? And who in my sphere of influence needs to hear about the transforming power of Jesus Christ?
Let's continue to pursue Christlikeness together, for His glory and the transformation of our world.

In Christ,
The NLBC Elders

Thanksgiving Eve Service
Join us next Wednesday Nov. 26 at 6:30 pm for our annual Thanksgiving Eve Service. Take time out of the busy holiday prep to praise our great God together!

Church Family Movie Outing 
Join us for a special church family outing to see David, the new film from Angel Studios. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a powerful biblical story together and invite friends or neighbors. Date: Thursday, December 18th Time: 6:50 PM Location: Cinemark Theater in Hadley Snacks and treats will be provided. Tickets can be purchased through the Cinemark website or through Angel Studios at:
https://www.angel.com/tickets/david/showtime/598197738/seats/map
Contact Mariah Jackman (413-522-8014) or Tonia Jackman (413-325-5238) for questions and to let them know you're coming. Please let us know if you would like to join but have a financial hardship that would keep you from joining, we would love to help! We hope you’ll join us for this fun night out!


Gingerbread House Decorating!
Sunday December 7th right after church at 11:30am. No Sunday School. Please sign your family up for a house (1 house per family/household) no later than Sunday November 30th. These houses are made to order based on those who have signed up, so if you have not signed up by November 30th then unfortunately you will not have a house to decorate, BUT you can still join for a pizza lunch and fellowship.
Pizza will be provided by the church with the help of the Social Committee and will be around 12:30.
Please bring candy to share for the "community candy" table and then any specialty candies you might want for your own! Please contact Jessica Bartlett 413-626-3497 or use the sign-up sheet in the back of the church to "order" a house. This is a free church sponsored event, but candy donations are helpful.


Joy in the Journey – Special Needs Moms Group 
Are you a mom of someone with special needs? You’re not alone. Joy in the Journey is a monthly online video chat group where mothers come together to share their burdens, pray, and encourage one another with others who truly understand. Join us as we find hope, strength, and joy together in the journey God has placed before us. For more information or to join, contact Mariah Jackman at 413-522-8014.


Food Pantry
There is need for another volunteer for the food pantry. Let Rob or Karen Rice know if you are interested.


Ministry Opportunities
We have some areas of service and ministry within the church that need to be filled. Would you pray about how you could help?

• Assistant Treasurer: We are looking for an Assistant Treasurer to help with the finances of the church. You must be a member to serve in this role. Please see Derek Postema with any questions about the position.
• Social Committee: We are also looking for anyone interested in serving on the Social Committee. This would involve helping with events including set-up, take down, prep, etc. This role is open to all, please see Judy Todd or Janice Abbott with any questions.

Offering
2025 Budget - Yearly $190,624
                      - Weekly $3,666

Offering - The offering for this past Sunday totaled $7,453.03. Designated gifts were as follows: $345 Food Pantry, $300 Sara's Lift, and $50 Mike/ Grace ROM. 

Our Food pantry has had an increase in clients and we could use help monetarily.


Needs:
Chunky Soups
Beef Stew
Bar hand soap
Cereal
Snack items
Brownie mixes
Cookie mixes
Olive Oil
Nuts
Pumpkin Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
Dressings
Jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Baked Beans
Applesauce
Jelly (Not Grape)
Canned Chicken

Anything is welcome, but these are the biggest needs.

Thank you to all the people that have donated to the pantry.
The Food Pantry will be open every 1st and 3rd Monday from 6-7pm
Donations can be left in the foyer or in the hall outside the Food Pantry

That we are sons and daughters of God the Father.

For God's inspired Word, the Bible.

Thank you to everyone who will be serving in some capacity in our church in the coming year.

The group that went to Rivers of Mercy Children's Home gave us testimonies about their time at the orphanage during Family Night this week.

Sam and Nikki Stafford have their occupancy permit and they're moving into their new home.

Dottie Webb's cataract surgery went well.

Mike and Grace are home on a break from ROM! 

Remember to count your blessings and be thankful for all God has given to you.

For our Sunday service and Pastor Daniel, who will be preaching.

Pray for Mike and Grace as they seek to discern God's will for their future.

Mary Dumas passed away this week. Pray for comfort for her family and loved ones.

For the four couples from NLBC who are attending the Joni and Friends Marriage Getaway this weekend.

Pray for the ministries of our church and those who are involved in them: the Prayer Chain, the Praise Team, the Food Pantry, KTFL (Keep the Fire Lit (the young adult Bible Study), our Sunday School classes, the children's choir, the Men's Discipleship Group, the Women's Discipleship Group, our Children's Ministries, the ministry to the deaf, the Special Needs Care team and our Youth Group. Be in prayer for other ways that we can have effective outreach in our community.  

Our church of the week is Community Bible Church in Northfield and their pastor Ben Emberley. Ben is also involved with the Small Town Summit organization which helps pastors throughout New England.

Our ministry focus this week is our Youth Ministry. The goal of the Youth Ministry continues to be the creation of a Christ-centered environment where teens can grow in their faith, deepen their knowledge of God, and strengthen relationships with one another--allowing "iron to sharpen iron".  We are so blessed to have an amazing group of teens in our church. Youth Ministry leaders are Dan and Marina Leonovich, Mary Burek, and John and Joann Drumgool.  

Our Global Partner of the week is the Rivers of Mercy Children's Home. The most recent list of prayer requests are:  Provision to meet their financial needs. The amount they receive in donations every month does not meet their expenses. Emmis and Kristin would like prayer for wisdom and direction as they lead the ministry. Pray for unity, love, patience, and humility for the staff as they deal with difficult situations. Emmis and Kristin's son Joel is doing a discipleship training with YWAM for 5 months. Pray for spiritual growth in the teenagers at ROM.

1 – Bill Czerwonka
6 – Isabella Bills, Jeff Jackman
8 – Amanda Brownlee
14 – Karen Czerwonka
23 – Caleb Bartlett
24 – Jimmy Browning
26 – Paul Burek
29 – Candace Jernigan
30 – Olivia Hunting

Dear Church Family,

This Sunday we reflected together on Paul's closing words in Colossians 4:7-18.

Summary:
The sermon explored how every single member of Christ's church has been called and empowered to walk in a central and vital role—no exceptions, no insignificant people. Through Paul's intentional greetings to specific individuals, we discovered that God has designed the church to function through the faithful obedience of all believers, not just a gifted few. This passage calls us to reject the lie that our contribution doesn't matter and instead embrace the truth that Christ has equipped us to display the gospel through three specific callings: pursuing relational unity, fervent prayer, and intentional encouragement.

Takeaways:
- Relational Unity: We are called to pursue intentional, loving relationships that cross social and ethnic lines, displaying the gospel truth that Christ has united diverse sinners into one family. This includes the hard work of forgiveness when brothers and sisters disappoint or hurt us, just as Paul modeled with Mark.
- Fervent Prayer: Prayer is not a gift for a few but a calling for all. Like Epaphras who "struggled" and "worked hard" for the church through prayer even from prison, we are all equipped to labor extensively for one another's spiritual growth through consistent, heartfelt intercession.
- Intentional Encouragement: We are called to personally come alongside one another—asking meaningful questions, remembering what others are going through, following up, and building each other up. This doesn't require professional counseling skills, just loving curiosity and a willingness to say something encouraging, as Paul instructed the church to do with Archippus.

As Francis Schaeffer reminds us, "There are no little people and no big people in the true spiritual sense, only consecrated and unconsecrated people." The question before each of us is simply this: Will we take up the calling Christ has given us? Will we walk as He has saved us to walk?

Let's be a church that displays the beauty of the gospel through our unity, our prayers, and our encouragement of one another.

In Christ,
The Elders of NLBC