Bigelow Church
Nondenominational
415 Washington St.
Portsmouth, OH  45662

Pastor’s Note:

            It seems that a phrase that was intended to communicate one thing has come to communicate something else.  What is that phrase?  Strengthening the Family.   I have recently heard that some in our fellowship have construed this phrase to exclude them from the many wonderful things that are going on.  So, I want to provide some clarification on the use of the phrase. 

            First, Bigelow Church is composed of individuals from many different backgrounds, economic levels, educational levels, spiritual maturity, ages, and marital status (single, widowed, divorced, seeking a mate, etc.).  Second, regardless of the above differences, all who have trusted Jesus Christ as Savior are a part of the family of God (John 1:12-13).  With those two things considered, here is how the phrase Strengthening the Family should be understood:  We are, collectively, the family of God through personal faith and trust in Jesus Christ as Savior, and this family is composed of individuals who are different, and yet similar in may ways (family status, maturity, age, etc.).   

            As a result of this, we hope to see young and old fellowshipping and growing together.  We hope to see those with no physical family members or spouses, connecting with those that become their family in a unique way, in a way that only the Church of Jesus Christ can produce.   We hope to provide an atmosphere where people are appreciated for their uniqueness—physically and spiritually. 

            Please note that this excludes no one.  We, as leaders, are at work seeking to provide an environment that will produce such results.  This will be an ongoing, growing process that will not end until the Lord returns.  Though we have such a responsibility, so too do each of you.  You have to understand what we are seeking to do, and then be a part of it.  In many cases, people don’t feel connected because they have made no attempt to connect.  We each have a responsibility to do our part in connecting.  But, if you are having problems connecting, then see one of the elders who can be of assistance in this matter. 

            There are a number of ways in which you can connect.  Here are a few:  1) Disciple Hour each Sunday morning, 2) Bible Nights each Sunday evening, 3) Agape Fellowship Meals each month, 4) Members Meetings each month, 5) Special meetings whenever we have them, and 6) Special prayer times.