NO. 14
A Note From Pastor Rick
Dear Church Family,
Like many of you, I am eagerly anticipating the arrival of spring! This new season serves as a beautiful reminder of renewal and new life.
I am excited to announce the launch of a new sermon series titled Prayer Care Share, beginning on March 9th and concluding on April 6th. We will celebrate a special Friend Day on April 6th, where we invite our friends to join us for worship. Throughout this sermon series, we will explore a simple plan designed to help us reach others with the Gospel. Perhaps you are like many Christians who desire to be effective in evangelism. You want the Lord to use you in leading others to Christ, but you may feel unsure about where to start. The good news is that the Bible presents a straightforward and timeless approach that has proven effective for thousands of years. This method has worked across the globe, and I believe it can work for you, too. As a church may we be committed to bringing the Gospel to our family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Together, we will pray for them, care for them, share the Gospel, and disciple those in our community.
Grace and peace, Pastor Rick
A Note From Pastor Eric
T he Power of Prayer
Prayer isn't just a core value here at Violet; prayer is one of the most powerful tools we have as believers. It is through prayer that we communicate directly with God, we are able to thank Him for all He's done, lay our hearts before Him, seek His guidance and experiencing His peace. Scripture tells us in James 5:16 that “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective,” reminding us that prayer is not simply a daily check box, but a way for us to access the transformative power of God. Jesus taught us to pray, showing us prayers significance through His own prayers in Matthew 6:9- 13, and He promises in Matthew 18:20 that “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them.” Prayer unites us with God and with others, making it a lifeline for anyone who calls themselves Christian. Let us be reminded of His promise in 1 John 5:14-15: “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” Would you join us at Violet for a Night of Prayer & Worship on March 4th at 7pm? This will be an evening to come together as a church family, lifting our voices in worship, praying for each other, the church, our community, our state, our country, and the world. I hope to see you here!
Pastor Eric
Please join us every Tuesday night from 6-7PM in the VioletCafé as we meet to pray.
Please join us on Tuesday, March 4th at 7:00PM in the Worship Center for a meaningful time of guided prayer and worship.
A Note From Pastor Brian
The Power of Community in the Life of the Local Church
"The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community." ― Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community
Are you dreaming of community or loving the person around you to develop community? This quote by Dietrick Bonhoeffer applies so much to each of us today. I realize I often sound like a broken record or someone harping on the importance of doing life together with others, but it is one of the most important things that the body of Christ can do to share Christ with those around us. John 13:35 reminds us of this fact: "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." I have been in the front row watching groups in our church family live out these very words, from caring for each other in sickness, laughing and rejoicing in life's triumphs, and going into the valley together when group members are dying. I spoke to a VioletGroups member the other day who said, "We talk about doing life together, but our group is learning about death as well." This was such a powerful testimony. Isn't it true that it is in death that we do ‘Life Together’?
Are you in community here at Violet? Would you like to be? We have groups that meet throughout the week. Would you like to gather some friends and start a group? I would love to help!
Are you interested in joining or hosting a VioletGroup? Click here.
Men’s Mission Trip
Men, it’s that time of year again where we prepare for the mission trip to South Dakota (May 3-9, 2025). This year we are planning on helping finish two houses as well as building a bathhouse onto the large building on the ranch. This is a great time of fellowship and spiritual growth as we serve the Lord in practical ways on the reservation.
Click here to register
Disaster Relief
Our Disaster Relief Team at Violet continues to grow. There is a state training event at FBC Waverly on Saturday, March 29th. Even if you currently cannot commit to deploy for a week- long time, there are opportunities for day trips in-state. I encourage you to sign up for the training.
Click here to learn more
Stowe Mission
Come serve with us on March 14th! Volunteers are needed to help warm food at Violet and also to transport to and serve food at Stowe Mission of Central Ohio.
Volunteers are needed for the following: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Warm food at Violet 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Transport food to & serve food at Stowe Mission
Click here to volunteer
2025 Violet Women’s Retreat Let Go, Love Well, Live Inspired! March 28th (check in 4pm) thru March 30th (check out 11am) The Berlin Resort, Millersburg Ohio
You are warmly invited to the 2025 Violet Women’s Retreat being held Friday, March 28th thru Sunday, March 30th, at The Berlin Resort, Millersburg Ohio. Women’s Ministry at Violet hosts many events throughout the year including local one and two day live simulcasts with incredible speakers like Beth Moore and Priscilla Shirer. But - our annual retreat in Amish country is a very special opportunity to intentionally get far away from our busy lives for a time of teaching, prayer, worship, and lots of awesome fellowship & fun with your sisters in Christ. There will be plenty of time to explore Amish country, shop, and just relax! Let Go, Love Well, Live Inspired! That’s our theme for the retreat and for women’s ministry in 2025, gleaned from Philippians 3:13-14: No dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and stretching forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Guest speaker Dr. Tammy Smith will once again bless us with incredible teaching on letting go of the past, embracing today and God's unconditional love for us, and living inspired to run our own race and make an impact for the Kingdom of God! Below is the total cost per person for the retreat. This includes two night's lodging, breakfast and supper each day, and coffee and tea service throughout each day. Registration is available through the Church Center app. Please contact Karen Bramlish at karenlynn8966@yahoo.com should you need assistance, have questions or need additional information! Hope to see you there!
Standard Queen Room 1 person in room $293
2 sharing a room $147/per person 3 sharing a room $98/per person 4 sharing a room $74/per person
Deluxe Queen with Balcony 1 person in room $313
2 sharing a room $157/per person 3 sharing a room $105/per person 4 sharing a room $79/per person
Queen Suite 1 person in room $393
2 sharing a room $197/per person 3 sharing a room $131/per person 4 sharing a room $98/per person
Click here to register
Hey guys, let's chow down and hang out at our monthly Men's Lunch Group! Join us every first Friday of the month at noon at Rooster's in Pickerington. Good food, good laughs, good company. Don't miss out!
*Please register by the Wednesday before, so we know if we need to reserve a room.
Click here to register
Men, join us Saturday, March 22nd at 4pm for a fun time of basketball, fellowship, and FOOD! March Madness will be on the TVs! Food is provided , but we encourage you to bring a friend and a snack to share! Let's watch some games together!
Click here to register
Want to know more about
Our NEXT STEPS Gathering & Lunch is for everyone, whether you want to make an initial connection with Christ and His Church, reconnect, or strengthen a connection you’ve had for years. NEXT STEPS is an interactive gathering that will help each attendee personalize their growth pathway. It serves as a great introduction for anyone who is new to the Violet family. However, it also offers resources that can help anyone grow in their walk with Christ and spread God’s love in our community and world.
This session is offered March 16th at 12:30 PM. The lunch provides a casual opportunity to meet some of Violet's pastors and ask any questions you might have.
To help us be faithful stewards of church resources as we make arrangements for food, we request that you register by the Wednesday before the gathering. Late registrations and walk-ins are always welcome.
Click here to register
J.O.Y. at Violet (those people 50 years old and older) group will be meeting every third Saturday of the month in the VioletCafé for J.O.Y. in the Morning Prayer Fellowship. We'd love for you to join us! Donuts will be provided. If you have questions or prayer requests, please contact Chris Bennett at (614)570-8701 or Mark Painter at (614)264-0462.
Click here to register You are invited to join us for a delightful evening at the J.O.Y. at Violet (Just Older Youth - those people who are 50+) Spring Fling on April 5th at 6:00pm in the VioletCafé . We will enjoy a fun game night and engaging conversations. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with others in the group. We look forward to a great turnout! Bring your favorite games and join us for subs, chips, dessert, water, and coffee. The only price of admission is contributions to help the kids in our community. Please bring food items for the H.O.P.E. at Violet food pantry such as Peanut Butter (regular size), Ramen noodles, Tuna or chicken cans or pouches, or protein bars. Let's nourish others while nourishing ourselves. We can't wait to see you there!
Click here to register
Meet a Worship Team Member
Hi, I'm Mike. My wife, Jana, and I have attended Violet since 2013. We were drawn in by the preachings of Pastor Rick and Pastor Brian, and the welcoming attitude of the people. I've been serving on the worship team since 2014. Our worship pastor at the time, Pastor William, found out from my wife that I played guitar, and wasted no time in recruiting me to serve on the worship team. I eventually conceded and agreed to tryout. I remember being late for my tryout because Rick saw my guitar and dragged me into an impromptu bluegrass session. I started playing guitar in high school, but laid it down because college, work, and raising a family took all my attention. It wasn't until I received the encouragement from my family that I decided to pick it back up. Because of them, I would like to pass along the gift of worshiping God on stringed instruments to the younger generations. If anyone is interested in guitar lessons, please contact me or Pastor Michael.
mjr2021@protonmail.com michaelw@violetchurch.com
March Madness is Upon Us!
For the past decade, Overflow Youth Ministry has held its annual March Madness Challenge. The winner takes home the highly sought-after chocolate trophy (and the pride of winning)! This year, we have decided to open the March Madness Challenge to our entire Violet family! This is a great way to connect with people at church. There is no money involved, and you could take home the chocolate trophy! To join the fun, simply go to ESPN.com and click “Fantasy” and then “Men’s Tournament Challenge.” You will be able to create a free account and then fill in your bracket. You can enter your bracket into the “Overflow Youth Ministry” group using the password “Authentic.” Please reach out to Pastor Keith with any questions (keithh@violetchurch.com). Let the games begin!
Hey there, high schoolers! Join us for an exciting evening of delicious food and shopping at Polaris on March 16th. We'll be meeting at Violet at 4 pm and heading to Polaris for a fun-filled time. Don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to hang out with friends, enjoy a tasty dinner, and shop 'til you drop! Details: Date: March 16th Time: 4:00 pm (Meeting at Violet) Location: Polaris Mall Return: 7:30 pm (Back to Violet) Remember to bring money for dinner and anything you might want to purchase. Let's make lasting memories and have a blast together! See you there!
Click here to register The Junior High Youth group will meet on Wednesday, March 19th from 7:00 to 8:15 PM in the youth room. We will play a fun game, have a snack, and then explore God’s Word about a topic that is important for Junior High Kids. We will then discuss these issues in groups.
Click here to register
Overflow Youth Retreat
The 2025 Overflow Youth Retreat is in the books! We had 60 members of our youth group get away for the weekend to go offline and to connect with God and others in a deeper way. Our Jr. High students heard messages from Pastor Brandon Sherr (Pastor Keith’s son-in-law) from Shoreline Church in Willoughby, Ohio. He led our Jr. High students in a deep dive into the characteristics of God. Pastor Sam Romine from Redemption Church in Johnstown taught our High School group from the book of Mark on the theme of “Examine Your Heart.” The Overflow Youth Worship Team opened each session in worship. As always, there was no shortage of fun! These retreats are a valuable opportunity for our group members to take their next steps in the relationship with Christ while deepening connections with others in the group. Please pray that our students and leaders will be able to implement the life changes that God revealed to them at the retreat! God is still changing lives! - Pastor Keith
During the month of February, VioletKids learned about God’s deep love for us! Our Bible stories revealed to our kids how God loves us first, God loves us best, God loves us more, and God loves us always! Our February scripture memory verse says, “God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him” (1 John 4:16b).
Our February VioletKids event was Father/Daughter Dance 2025! With such an amazing community turnout last year, we knew we had to bring it back for the second year in a row! We ran with the “Valentine’s Day” theme with lots of hearts, balloons, a DJ, a take-home heart craft, and yummy Valentine’s treats. Thank you to all those who served at this event. What a memorable night it was for many fathers and their little girls!
I am excited to share that our children’s ministry is growing and adding new kids to our classrooms regularly! If you have a heart for babies, littles, or school-aged kiddos, there is a place for you on the children’s ministry team. Through our weekly Bible stories and classroom activities, it is our heart that the kids who come through the doors of our church would feel welcomed, loved, accepted, and that they belong here! When you choose to invest in a child’s life, you are choosing to partner with God in His Kingdom work. If we are willing to help these kids to feel welcomed and loved and accepted, then we are paving the way for them to freely come to their own relationship with Jesus! Our children’s ministry verse is 1 Timothy 4:12, which says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” We want VioletKids to know that they are “never too young” to have a relationship with Jesus and live out their faith! If this news excites you in any way, or you are feeling led to join the church in this mission, I would love to connect with you and see how you could be a part of this team. We really are better together! You can reach me by email at chelseap@violetchurch.com.
-Chelsea Poole, Children’s Director
Events & Volunteers Did you know that all the events that take place at Violet could not happen without YOU faithfully serving?! On February 1st, we had a Father-Daughter Dance here at Violet and I am so thankful for the men who helped set up and the Women’s Ministry and youth who helped serve at this event. Thank you for helping make this year’s dance another great time for so many in our church and community! Did you know that every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood? Several times a year Violet is a host site for Red Cross Blood Drives. In February, we had our first one of the year. We need people to help set up the tables and chairs as well as greet at the door for each blood drive that Violet hosts. If you are interested in learning how you can help at a future blood drive, please reach out to Jim Barber. On Saturday April 5th, Violet will host a HUGE community Easter Eggstravaganza at Sycamore Creek Park and we need your help! First, we need to start collecting Easter Eggs and Candy - our goal is 5,000 eggs! We have a collection bin in the resource hub and appreciate anything you can donate. Next, we will need a LOT of people to serve at this event- please sign up to help! All registered volunteers will receive a Violet t-shirt to wear at the event so sign up today to get your size!
If you have any questions, please let me know.
Jamie McCleese Event & Volunteer Director jamiem@violetchurch.com
You are invited to Violet's Easter Eggstravaganza! Please join us for this family-friendly event on April 5th from 10:00-11:00 AM at Sycamore Creek Park in Pickerington!!
Family-Friendly Event!! Egg Hunts!! Giveaways!! Door Prizes!! Sorso Coffee will be available!! We'll have $2.00 off coupons for Sorso Coffee available for the first 250 people.
Egg Hunt Schedule as follows: 10:00 AM 0-2 years old 10:15 AM 3-5 years old 10:30 AM 6-8 years old 10:45 AM 9-11 years old Sycamore Creek Park Covered Bridge Ln, Pickerington, OH
Near the Playground, Ninja course, and Pickering Shelter Overflow parking at City Hall and Pickerington Senior Center Rain or Shine!
*All children must be supervised by the adult who brings them at all times. Registration is not required to attend this event. You only need to register if you're volunteering.
Donations Needed: Individually-Wrapped Candy & Plastic Easter Eggs
https://www.violetbaptistchurch.org/easter-eggstravaganza/
Marketing & Communications
Are you a part of a VioletGroup? We want to celebrate and document all the wonderful moments and memories shared within our community. Whether it's a VioletGroup gathering, a special event, or a meaningful discussion, we encourage you to capture these moments through photos and videos. By sharing your photos and videos with us, you not only help preserve these memories but also inspire others in our community. Your snapshots can showcase the bonds of friendship, the joy of fellowship, and the growth experienced within your VioletGroup. To participate, simply take photos and videos at your VioletGroup meetings and events. Capture the smiles, the laughter, the learning, and the togetherness. Then, share them with us by emailing them to rachels@violetchurch.com. Your submissions may be featured on our website, social media, or shared during church services to highlight the vibrant community we have at Violet.
Don't let those special moments fade away - capture them and share them with us to spread the joy and connection found within our VioletGroups.
We look forward to seeing your memories come to life through your lens. Thank you for being a part of the VioletGroups community and for sharing your stories with us.
Together, let's capture the moment and celebrate our VioletGroup memories!
Rachel Stone Marketing & Communications Director
Links
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