May: A Month Filled with Blessings

Jun 23
4 min read

May was an exciting and memorable month at the Living Church of Five Mile. From fellowship and celebration to powerful preaching and timely reminders from God's Word, the Lord continued to move in our church family in remarkable ways.

☕ Handled with Care

We opened the month by hosting our Southern Ohio District Mother-Daughter Tea Party. It was a wonderful day of fellowship, encouragement, and worship as ladies from across the district gathered together.

Sister Amber Chambers ministered the Word, bringing a powerful message titled "Handled with Care." Using the story of Hagar, she reminded us that even when we feel forgotten or overlooked, God sees us and cares for us. The ladies enjoyed not only a rich spiritual feast but also delicious food and sweet fellowship that made the day truly special.

🎓 Celebrating the Next Chapter

One of the highlights of May was honoring our three high school graduates: Braylin Neylon, Jocelyn Newell, and Dawson Davis.

As these young people prepare to begin a new season of life, our church family celebrated their accomplishments and prayed God's blessings over their futures.

Mission Director Bishop Darryl Gaunce joined us and delivered a thought-provoking message titled "But What About Jesus?" As always, a visit from Bishop Gaunce included plenty of laughter as he took the opportunity to give Pastor White a hard time about being born in what he considers the "lesser" Kentucky county.

🌍 Trusting God With Tomorrow

We were also blessed to welcome back our Pakistan Overseer, Bishop Paulus Masih. His message was a timely reminder in a world filled with uncertainty and anxiety.

He encouraged us not to stress over tomorrow, but instead to place our trust completely in God. After all, God is already present in the days ahead and knows exactly what we need before we ever arrive there.

🔥🇺🇸🎂 A Day of Remembrance, Revival, and Celebration

Pentecost Sunday was truly a special day at Five Mile. It was a day that brought together three meaningful celebrations.

First, we honored Pentecost Sunday and remembered the outpouring of the Holy Ghost that birthed the New Testament Church. We rejoiced in the same Spirit that continues to empower believers today.

Second, we paused to honor the brave men and women of our military who gave their lives in service to our nation. Their sacrifice allows us the freedoms we often take for granted, including the freedom to gather and worship openly.

Finally, we celebrated the birthday of our beloved pastor, Bishop Don White.

Following service, the church gathered for a special meal in his honor. This year's celebration included a surprise that Pastor will never forget. His sisters, Bobbie Rhea and Ruby Ann, arranged for his mother, Earlene, and stepfather, Rich, to attend. Due to health concerns, visits have become less frequent, making their presence even more meaningful.

Pastor was genuinely surprised and overjoyed. Anyone who knows him knows he proudly claims the title of "momma's boy." Watching Sister Earlene smile from ear to ear as she listened to her son preach was a touching reminder of the power of a praying mother. Pastor's salvation was once the answer to her desperate prayers, and seeing him stand behind the pulpit remains one of her greatest joys.

⚔️ Called to Be Soldiers

Pastor White delivered a powerful message titled "Soldiers."

He reminded us that we are called to be soldiers in the Army of the Lord. As believers, we are engaged in a spiritual battle and must be willing to stand firm, fight faithfully, and labor for the salvation of souls. The Christian life is not passive; it requires commitment, courage, and perseverance.

📣 What Is Your War Cry?

The evening service continued the theme of spiritual warfare as Rev. Jeremiah Purdin brought a message titled "What Is Your War Cry?"

Drawing examples from each branch of the United States Armed Forces, he explained the purpose and significance of a war cry. He then turned to Scripture, reminding us how the shout at Jericho brought down seemingly impossible walls and how Gideon's battle cry led to victory against overwhelming odds.

He challenged the congregation with a powerful question: Does our war cry cause the enemy to tremble?

Our praise, our prayers, and our declarations of faith still carry power today.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 What About the Next Generation?

To close out the month, Rev. Sam Byrd brought a challenging message centered on the future of the Church.

His question was simple yet sobering: "What about the next generation?"

He reminded us that what one generation compromises, the next generation often accepts. If we lower our standards, become comfortable with sin, or neglect our walk with God, future generations will inherit those compromises.

The next generation is watching. The responsibility of preserving truth and faithfully passing it on rests with us.

🚀 Looking Ahead

As May comes to a close, June is already arriving at full speed. Excitement is building as we prepare for Vacation Bible School and Kids Camp, two opportunities to invest in the lives of children and young people.

God has been faithful throughout this season, and we believe He has even greater things ahead.

Until next month, may we continue to stand firm, fight the good fight of faith, and hear the words every believer longs to hear: