Fine Arts Crunch Time!!

Well, it's here! Ready or not!! Fine Arts is upon us. We've made all the preparations, and it's finally here. We have seen tremendous growth this year. While the numbers are still being finalized, we had dozens of additional student entries and students participating.

It's really sad, but I only got a few quick shots which are not very good. The truth is, we were so busy that I really never had time or energy to take pictures. We had over 600 students and another 500-600 parents and leaders on the grounds in Decatur. As the Fine Arts Coordinator and the 'Conflict Resolution' guy...I had my plate full of rabid...I mean sweet parents and teenagers to deal with. I'm just kidding, of course. While there are many who take Fine Arts VERY SERIOUSLY, all of those I had the privilege of working with were a delight, except for Mrs...oh, nevermind!! The weekend was a fabulous success!! Thanks for all those who were praying for us!!

Jeff Kossack, IYCM District Youth Director w/ Judges

Anthony grabbing a bite to eat before the madness begins!

Gail finishing up the Judge folders

DYD, Jeff Kossack, auditioning for "American Idol"...I mean, Greeting the Judges

Metro South Minister's Meeting

Opera House Restaurant, O'Fallon, ILApril proved to be a very busy month as we had a full schedule of services as well as a host of meetings to attend. While I failed to take pictures everywhere I went, I did manage to get a few shots of the Metro South Section Minister's Meetings.

For those who may not be familiar with Assemblies of God polity; the United States are divided into Districts, usually divided by state lines with a few exceptions, and each district is broken up into smaller sections. The Metro South Section is located to the east/southeast of St. Louis. Our fearless leader (Presbyter) is Pastor Gary Thomas of Troy Assembly of God.

April's meeting was located at the Opera House Restaurant in O'Fallon, IL. There was good attendance...pastors and food, a fine combination! Gail and I try to attend any and all sectional minister's meetings when we are not out of the state. The fellowship is always enjoyable and the camaraderie is invaluable. Here are a few shots from that meeting!!

Presbyter, Gary Thomas giving good sound marital advice to Todd & Angela (LOL)

Pastor Gary Thomas

Easter Sunday ~ First Assembly of God, Jerseyville,IL

Happy Easter to all!! We had the privilege of sharing Resurrection Sunday with the congregation at First Assembly of God in Jerseyville, IL. Jerseyville is located aproximately 25 minutes north of Alton, IL. Pastor Randy Cartwright is the senior pastor.

Whole In One provided a few dramatic elements and special music for this service. It was a great service from beginning to end. Pastor concluded the service with a brief message sharing the 'once and for all' breakthrough that Jesus accomplished through His glorious resurrection.

Pastor Randy, praying for a "Breakthrough" season!!
Gail playing, "But For Your Grace" on her violin!

Palm Sunday, Gurnee, IL

Calvary Harvest Church, Gurnee, IL

Greetings and hallucinations!! Can you believe it's April??? Easter is here already!! It hardly seems possible, but it's true.

Gail and I have been overwhelmed by God's faithfulness and grace. We had the privilege of sharing in ministry this past Sunday at Calvary Harvest Church in Gurnee, IL. Gurnee is situated approximately 40 miles north of Chicago.

It was truly a pleasure to meet and fellowship with Pastor Abbott , the senior pastor. He and his wife have faithfully served Calvary Harvest Church for 21 years. We shared in both morning services and in the evening worship service. While three responded to Christ in the morning, we had the privilege of lingering around the altars Sunday night.

It seems that no matter where God leads us, there are those who truly need God's grace in their lives.

Thank you, Pastor Abbott, for allowing us to share in ministry. You are a blessing to the Kingdom!!

Pastor Robert Abbott

Fine Arts Deadline!!

Well, it is here! The Fine Arts registration deadline. For all those Illinois Fine Arts 'junkies', we will have the schedule posted online at IYCM.com, Tuesday April 25th.

Gail and I have moved our travel trailer to Carlinville until the Fine Arts Festival. So, I'm off to scheduling and the joyous delights of data entry!! Ta-ta for now!!

Precious Friends of Whole In One

Will you indulge me for just one minute?? Thanks! I just had to put this picture online. I recently had the privilege of visiting my best friends, Anthony & Jill Brock. Anthony and I got in trouble...I mean, grew up together in Washington, PA, where the Brock's currently reside. Anthony and Jill have been dear friends and ministry partners of Whole In One. Some of you have already put it together...Yes, MY Anthony Joel's namesake is from his 'Uncle Tony'!

We love you, Uncle Tony & Aunt Jill!!