I am writing a newsletter so this month I want to be newsy in my letter. For the category of small congregations we are doing fine. Our financial picture looks good and we are spiritually better than average. (That doesn't mean anyone should quit giving. "Fine" will turn into "not so fine" real soon). Where we lack the numbers, of people, we excel in determination and spiritual health. We are committed to the doctrines of the New Testament Church. We are also committed to being a light to the community around us. We have seen some visitors come and go and some dear ones have come back again, more than once. We appreciate those who are trying to help us keep the doors open, the lights on and the truth of the gospel preached. It would truly be a shame if we could not continue here in this location. God provides and He has helped us through the hard times. We can only rely on Him for the future.
    This past year has seen the unfortunate turmoil in the Preacher Wilson's marriage and his retirement. He has seen health and personal problems that prompted him to retire although we know his heart is in the ministry of the word. I'm sure he is still doing whatever he can to promote the preaching and teaching of the word of God. This past year has also seen some turmoil in the pulpit as Community Christian Church of Christ sorted out those suitable to serve as preaching minister of the church. Although we love all and have concern and compassion for all we concede and conclude that what is most important from the pulpit and podium is dedication to the truth of the word and consistency in presenting that truth. How could we fulfill the great commission Mat.28:18-20, or love God and his people I John 5:1-3 if we didn't preach the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
    This past year has been a year of ups and downs for my family and me. We are pleased to be able to serve the Lord at a place where the people believe and respect the word of God, and believe in "One Lord, One faith and one baptism." We are blessed in the respect we have gotten in this ministry. On the other hand, this past year has also seen a pay cut and benefit cutback at the airline where I have full time employment. The airline took a Chapter 11 bankruptcy (reorganization) but, from what I have read, came out of it too soon. They may either be headed for another bankruptcy or some other major shakeup. I ask for prayers that what ever may happen God will grant the church, my family and myself the ability to overcome the difficulties quickly. Even though I have worked for this airline for over 21 years I would take an early retirement and work for the church full time. I don't get any money at my age if I did retire though. I just need enough support from friends of the ministry to do that. I am willing to continue with the ministry either way as long as people understand, because it is such a small congregation; I will have to continue to work full-time outside the ministry. This has an effect on ministry functions and services because of the time involved in outside work. Not too long ago I was out of town on company business and had to suspend Wed. night services. Working midnight shift, 10 hours a night Wed. through Sat. night (getting off between 6:00 and 7:30 Sun. morn.) doesn't help either. I sure do get tired on Sunday mornings. We just hope and pray the company stays in business and stays in Roanoke, I find suitable employment or that we can get the support we need. Otherwise it will mean a hardship for this ministry with the congregation here at Community Christian Church of