NO. 20
A Note From Pastor Rick
Dear Church Family,
Life is filled with uncertainty—unexpected challenges, shifting circumstances, and questions about the future. In the middle of it all, we need something steady to hold on to. That’s why God has given us His promises. Throughout Scripture, God offers words of hope, strength, and grace that meet us in every season of life. His promises aren’t empty guarantees or wishful thinking. They are trustworthy, time-tested truths that anchor our faith. And the best news of all? God always keeps His Word. This fall, we’re beginning a new series called “Promises”. Each week we’ll open the Bible and rediscover one of God’s powerful promises for His people. These promises bring encouragement when we’re weary, peace when we’re anxious, and confidence when life feels uncertain.
Join us in September as we learn to rest, trust, and stand firm on the unshakable promises of God.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Rick
A Note From Pastor Eric
What a month it has been at Violet! I can’t help but pause and give thanks for the way God continues to move both inside our church walls and out in the community. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen God’s hand at work in powerful ways, through worship services and sermons, through baptisms that reminded us of new life in Christ, and through so many ministries that reached people right where they are with the love of Christ. From children learning about Jesus in VioletKids, to youth events and worship, to our VioletGroups and service opportunities throughout Pickerington and central Ohio, God has been transforming lives! I’m especially grateful for how you, the body of Christ, the Church continue to serve faithfully. Whether greeting at the doors, teaching a class, leading a group, or sharing Christ’s love in the community, you are living out what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. These moments remind us that the church is not a building, but God’s people on mission together. As we look ahead, I couldn’t be more excited about the coming month and the fall season. Fall always brings with it new energy, kids back in school, families settling into rhythms, and a fresh opportunity to grow deeper in our faith. We’ll be preparing for a season of ministry where God is sure to open new doors. Let’s keep leaning in, expectant that He will do more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
Thank you, church, for your love, your prayers, and your commitment to Loving God, Loving Others and Making Disciples!
Pastor Eric
Violet Township will begin construction at the Milnor Road and SR 204 intersection on August 11, 2025. During this initial phase, drivers can expect some flagging operations and traffic delays in the area. Please note that the intersection is scheduled to close completely on September 8, 2025. The project is expected to last approximately 50 days, but the timeline is weather dependent and subject to change.
A Note From Pastor Brian
Broken Record
Have you ever felt like a broken record? Some of you reading this may not realize where this term came from. Vinyl records are making a comeback, so the term may again regain its meaning.
The term comes from a scratch happening on a vinyl record, which would cause the record to get stuck and play the same line over and over again.
Okay, now that I have your attention, this is how I feel when I talk to you about VioletGroups and the importance of being in one. I know what you're thinking: here he goes again...
VioletGroups are important because being in community is important. Throughout Scripture, we see the importance of being in biblical community, most importantly, for our discipleship and growth as followers of Christ.
So please help me fix my record and get into a group this fall!
Click here for a report on Disaster Relief Ohio
Chanku Waste Ranch Dental Hygiene Mission Report
Serving on the Wellness Team at the Chanku Waste Ranch in South Dakota this year has been a year of seeing answered prayers and blessings. As per usual on this mission trip, I believe I received far more than I gave. God is so good. Serving on the Ranch as a Dental Hygienist provided me an opportunity to care for those who lack availability to proper dental care due to logistics or financial reasons. I was blessed to see kids from the camp during the week as well as people around the area from Pine Ridge. I could see growth in the patients I’ve seen over the past two years in the following ways: reduced fear and anxiety regarding what to expect with treatment, and increased knowledge in how to care for their own oral health. Many knew all the right answers regarding proper care. One even asked for another toothbrush due to theirs being lost but promised they would do better now that they have a toothbrush again. :-) Seeing sealants and other dental work that had previously not been done, we are making a difference! I had the privilege of seeing adult patients from Pine Ridge and the surrounding area to hear the excitement they have about sharing their culture and future. How appreciative they were to have care provided to them. I was able to make connections in the community this year and can’t wait to go back to reconnect. As I was leaving, I learned a new word for goodbye in Lakota: Toksa akhe (See You Later!). I look forward to seeing my new friends later in 2026. I was able to meet and work with a dentist from Rapid City who had a beautiful heart for the people and kids there, as well as hear the news of additional dentists and hygienist volunteers coming in September and October. I was also able to meet a college student who is from Pine Ridge and is working at the Wellness Center learning dental assisting. Seeing her joy in learning new skills reminds me of my hope to one day no longer be needed because the clinic will be receiving care from those at the reservation. Until that day comes, if you are in the dental field and would like to participate, please let me know. There will be a meeting to discuss next year's trip on October 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Franny, the local stuffed animal comforter, will be waiting for us at the ranch. Thank you for your prayers and continued prayers for the upcoming year.
Debbie Griffith
Franny
More Photos from Debbie’s Trip
“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” - John 12:32
What a great weekend the men of Violet had this August as we gathered together for the 2025 Men’s Retreat. Our theme for the weekend was Lift Him Up: Christ over Everything as we spent time ‘pressing pause’ on our busy lives and reflecting on the grace, power, and sufficiency of the cross of Christ. We learned that Christ is not only over everything but He changes everything. We serve a God who is not only transcendent but also near. In the Gospel of John, we read of a promise of Christ that when He is lifted up, He will draw all people to Himself. Referring to His death, the act of being raised from the earth on a wooden cross, Jesus promised that this act would have consequences. That is, although Jesus died once, He would continually call all people to Himself as a result. As He was lifted up for us over 2,000 years ago outside of Jerusalem, may we lift Him up in our lives as He draws us and others to Himself.
If you were unable to attend, we invite you to join us in 2026 on August 7th-9th for next year’s Retreat.
In Him, Jon Camp Men’s Ministry Leader
The seasons are changing and I’m loving it. If you’re a little old-school like me, you’re from the generation of freshly sharpened pencils and new Trapper Keepers! Back-to-school time was always so exciting, finally getting to wear my new school shoes and school clothes! Whether you’re headed back to school, have kiddos or grandkids headed back, or you’re starting your first year of retirement, the transition to a new season is here. Life is full of transitions. Some are major and significant, and some pass without us even noticing. In recent years, I’ve been praying that God would help me embrace every season, every transition, and squeeze out every bit He has for me in that season, even the hard parts. I’m really looking forward to the opportunities we have at Violet to walk through this new season together! We have several wonderful events coming up this fall and winter, and I’m praying this is the season you decide to jump in and join us. September 27th, 9 am-4:30 pm: Beth Moore (simulcast). This all-day event will be full of praise & worship, laughter, and powerful teaching with the sole purpose of seeking after Jesus! The cost to attend is only $10 and will include a continental-style breakfast, coffee, tea, and ice water throughout the day, and light snacks. We’ll be on our own for lunch.
October 5th, 5:30 pm: Fall Women’s Ministry Dinner. Great food, laughter, fun fall craft, and a surprise or two.
November 9th: Operation Christmas Child - Shoebox folding and luncheon (right after 2nd service)
December 14th: Women’s Christmas Celebration and Luncheon (right after 2nd service)
Please reach out anytime if you’d like to talk, assist with any events, have a great idea for a fellowship opportunity, or just pray together!
Be Blessed!
Love, Karen Bramlish
Women’s Ministry Leader karenlynn8966@yahoo.com 614-557-3598
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Grief is a journey, and we all go through it at some point in our lives. It is never easy losing a loved one, and I know this all too well.
My name is Laurie Walsh, and in the last several years, I have lost my husband, my brother, my mother-in-law, as well as many other close relatives. After losing my brother and watching my mom grieve for the loss of her son, I felt the Lord lead me to do something to not only help her but also to help others who have lost those near and dear to them. It was then that we went and spoke with Pastor Brian to see what we could do to help those who are grieving not only in our church but in our community. Pastor Brian then searched and found Grief Share. Grief Share is an adult-based, Christ-centered program that guides individuals after the loss of a loved one, whether it be a family member or a friend. It is a 13-week session with three parts: Video Session, Small Group Discussion, and a Participant Guide. It will not take away your grief; however, it will help you navigate through losing your loved one. If you are struggling in your grief, I recommend that you try Grief Share. We do two 13-week sessions on Wednesday evenings every year, one in the fall/winter and one in the winter/spring. If you would like to know more about Grief Share, please feel free to reach out, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
Laurie Walsh lulu31968@aol.com (614)946-6448
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Please join us every Tuesday night from 6-7PM in the VioletCafé as we meet to pray.
If you would like to respond in obedience and be baptized by immersion, sign up today and a pastor will contact you. Baptism symbolizes the believer’s faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior; the believer’s death to sin; the burial of the old life; and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Jesus Christ.
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Come serve with us on September 12th! 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
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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 September 21st 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.
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Men, join us in the VioletCafé after the second service on Sunday, September 28th at 12:30 PM for a special lunch with Dr. Jeremy Westbrook, Executive Director of the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio.
Dr. Westbrook will share an encouraging update on what God is doing across Ohio and how you can be a part of it.
Lunch is provided - just register, so we can plan for you!
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Fall Festival Game Night for J.O.Y. at Violet (that stands for Just Older Youth - those people 50+)! Join us for a night of laughter, games, and fellowship on Saturday, November 1 at 5:00 PM in the VioletCafé! We’ll enjoy a casual dinner of pizza or subs along with coffee and water—all for just $5 per person.
We’ll have plenty of games and cards ready to go, but feel free to bring along your favorite to share with the group. It’s the perfect way to kick off November with friends, fun, and lots of smiles!
A Note From Pastor Keith
Three Generations of Men Gather at the Violet Men’s Retreat
I have been attending the Violet Men’s Retreats since they began many years ago. I love that the retreats provide time away from my routine to worship God and hear from Him in a new way. I am also grateful for the opportunity that the Men’s Retreats give for me to spend an extended amount of time with the men of Violet. I must admit that one of my favorite aspects of the Men’s Retreat involves having high school and college guys there to interact with the older men from our church. In the past few years, we have had 8 or 9 high school and college-aged guys attend the Men’s Retreat. This year, we had 18! It was wonderful to see these younger guys worshipping and listening to God’s Word alongside of the older men of the church. Activities like the Euchre tournament, corn hole, basketball, fishing, and sharing meals allow the younger men to connect with the older men of a church in a fun, non-threatening way. This also provides a wonderful opportunity for dads to share this experience with their high school or college-aged sons. Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation will declare your works to the next and proclaim your mighty acts.” Our Violet Men’s and Women’s Retreats provide an opportunity for adult church members to formally and informally mentor the younger leaders at Violet who will lead our church into the future. The next time a Violet Men’s or Women’s Retreat comes around, would you consider investing a weekend to make a Kingdom impact?
Keith Hurt Next Gen Pastor
The Overflow Class of 2032 Has Arrived!
August marks the beginning of a new school year for the students in our church. This is also the time of year that we promote our upcoming 6th grade class from VioletKids to the Overflow Youth Ministry. We make it a point to emphasize and celebrate this important rite-of-passage for our students. We want our upcoming 6th graders to know that they are a welcome addition to the Overflow family. This year’s 6th grade class will be our Overflow graduates in 2032! They recently celebrated their Overflow debut by playing the “Toostie Roll Game.” This game involves spreading hundreds of Tootsie Rolls on the floor and having students pick up one each time they have completed the item in question (broken a bone, gone to Disney, own Crocs, etc..). We have begun “Move Up Sunday” with this game each year for the past 18 years! We also take time to go over the mission statement of Violet Baptist and Overflow Youth Ministry so the new students understand the intentional ministry nature behind everything we do as a youth group. “We exist to see generations of students transformed through authentic discipleship to move from consumers to producers of ministry.” We welcome our new students to join us in this process of becoming someone who makes a Kingdom impact. Finally, we like to conclude our “Move Up Sunday” by having fun together! The Junior High Group went to lunch after church on Sunday, August 17th and then went to the Get Air Trampoline Park in Pickerington. It was wonderful to see our new students having fun and experiencing the unity and authenticity that exists in our youth ministry.
Please pray that the Overflow Class of 2032 will become all that God has designed for them to be!
Keith Hurt Next Gen Pastor
August was a great month for VioletKids!
The Elementary students were excited to learn how they are designed for a purpose while the Preschoolers learned God has a plan for them! They learned these truths as they studied the life of Joseph. Their memory verse was “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10) Coming soon: An amazing new Sermon Resource for families! It will include discussion questions and conversation starters that you can use throughout the week to continue the conversation about what you and your child learned on Sunday. You can find this resource on the VioletKids page of our website or on the Church Center app.
There is a place for you in VioletKids’ Ministry! Serving Opportunities: Sunday morning at both hours Sunday evening in Gopher Buddies or Olympians
There will be more information coming about Gopher Buddies and Olympians as we build our team of volunteers. If you would like to serve on Sunday mornings or Sunday evenings, please let me know and we will get the process started! On a personal note, it has been such a blessing to join the Violet family. I have loved getting to meet so many of you, and I look forward to meeting more of you. Thank you for the warm welcome for me and my family!
In Christ alone, Jen Hunt Children’s Director jenh@violetchurch.com 614-260-2670
Click here Please join us in the VioletCafé for a lunch and training on Sunday, September 14th from 12:30- 2:00PM. Lunch will be provided. Please register by September 10th, so we know how much food is needed. This training is for current volunteers and youth helpers in VioletKids AND for anyone interested in serving in VioletKids.
Please see Jen Hunt, if you have any questions.
*No childcare will be provided for this training.*
Community Impact
This month, we’re excited to welcome several groups that meet in the building throughout the school year.
Pickerington Local Schools offers a service-learning program where high school students serve as mentors and academic supporters for younger learners in elementary schools. High school students (juniors and seniors) meet at Violet every Monday during the school year and the rest of the week they are placed in elementary school classrooms to provide support and mentorship to younger students. LifeWise Academy will be at Violet on Wednesdays. LifeWise Academy offers Bible education for public school students during school hours. LifeWise provides a program that any community can implement to reach students with the gospel.
CBS (Community Bible Study) is a group of women that meets every Thursday during the school year from 9:45- 11:45am. This year CBS is studying Psalms.
Thursday evenings, Pickerington Parks and Recreation continue to offer two classes: Self-defense class and a Zumba class. For more details, check out their website.
We’re also looking for door greeters on Thursday nights for the Parks and Rec classes. If you’re available, even just once or twice a month, please let me know! The time commitment is from 5:45 PM to 7:45 PM.
As always, if you’re looking to get involved and serve, I would love to connect with you! I am looking forward to all the exciting events this fall. If you have any questions or need help getting plugged in, please reach out to me!
Thank you, Jamie McCleese
Community Impact Director jamiem@violetchurch.com
TRUNK OR TREAT 2025 OCTOBER 22nd FROM 6-7:30PM!!
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FREE Family-Friendly Event!! FREE Hot Dogs!! FREE Popcorn!!
FREE Candy!! FREE Games!! FREE Crafts!!
FREE Pumpkins!! DOOR PRIZES!!
RAIN OR SHINE!!!!
OCTOBER 22nd FROM 6-7:30PM!!
*No Registration Necessary*
https://www.violetbaptistchurch.org/trunk-or-treat/
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VIOLET FAMILY, WE NEED YOU!!!!
As our community joins us for fun and fellowship at Trunk or Treat 2025(October 22nd from 6-7:30PM), we need your help. From grillers and parking lot attendants to game hosts and craft helpers, there are a variety of ways for you to sign up to serve God and others.
Plus, we needs trunks - LOTS OF THEM!! We're hoping for 80!!! And CANDY!!! Lots of candy!!
To sweeten the deal, we'll have prizes to be awarded for the Best Trunk Decoration and Best Group/Family Costume!!
Please sign up today to help!!
A Note From Pastor Michael
Worship Shaped by God’s Word
When many of us think of worship, we first picture music—the songs we sing together on Sunday. But true worship is not defined by a style, a song list, or even a moment in a service. True worship begins with God Himself, and it is His Word that shows us who He is and how we are to respond. Romans 12:1 tells us to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Worship is much more than singing—it is the offering of our whole lives to God. And we learn how to offer ourselves rightly by looking to Scripture. God’s Word teaches us His character, reminds us of His saving work through Christ, and shows us how to respond in obedience and gratitude. When we gather on Sundays, Scripture calls us to sing, pray, confess, and listen to God’s Word together. These are not random activities—they are responses guided by the Bible itself. Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.” Our worship is shaped by God’s Word so that it is directed toward Him and built up for the good of His people. So what is worship? It is the continual rhythm of hearing from God through His Word and responding with our lives—with our songs, our prayers, our service, and our obedience. Worship is not about what we invent, but about how God has revealed Himself and how He calls us to respond.
This month’s practice: Before you sing or pray, take a moment to anchor yourself in Scripture. Let God’s Word lead your worship, and you’ll find that your heart and life are drawn closer to Him.
Click here We will be taking a group of 18-25 year olds to CrossCon26 in Louisville, KY on January 1-3, 2026. The ticket price is $139 and the deadline for registration is September 16th. We are looking forward to this amazing opportunity.
Please watch this PROMO VIDEO to learn more about CrossCon26.
Marketing & Communications
As we step into September, it feels like a fresh new season is upon us—school is back in session, schedules are filling up, and here at Violet, ministry opportunities are in full swing. This is such a great time to connect, grow, and share the love of Jesus with one another and with our community. The Marketing & Communications ministry exists to help keep you informed, inspired, and connected. Whether it’s through the monthly newsletter, social media, posters, or Sunday announcements, the goal is to make sure you never miss a chance to worship, serve, or gather with your church family. If you’re leading a ministry or planning something special in your VioletGroup, we’d love to help you spread the word! Sharing the who, what, when, and where of your event makes it easier for people to join in and invite others along.
As the leaves begin to change and the air cools, let’s remember that every season is a chance to grow in Christ and to share His light. Stay connected, stay encouraged, and let’s keep building community together.
With joy, Rachel Stone Marketing & Communications Director rachels@violetchurch.com
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