A few weeks ago, Josh preached a sermon summarizing a grouping of Friends (Quaker) distinctives that have been important emphases for our church historically. I followed that up with a sermon about Quaker views and practices of worship. Today, these two sermons have me thinking of another important Friends emphasis that is valuable for us as we follow Jesus together.
Friends have placed virtues like “simplicity” and “integrity” at the center of what it means to be a disciple. One of the ways that this has been expressed has been in truth-telling, and specifically in not swearing oaths. Quakers were known for placing so much weight on telling the truth that they were trusted when they said something, even by outsiders. Even today, if a Friend is asked to swear an oath in a legal setting, they can simply say that they always tell the truth and can affirm that they will speak honestly.
This comes from Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5:33-37 records this:
“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for itis the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
Telling the truth can become complex when it seems to come up against perceived kindness and love. The gray area of “little white lies” can be tough to navigate. “Do I look good in this outfit?” may seem like a different truth-telling than “who broke this lamp?” And these are difficult conversations to unpack in one email.
As far as possible, I believe that we are called to Jesus’ instruction here. Simply say “yes” or “no.” Tell the truth. How might this distinctive among Friends challenge us today? Where do we need to see honesty and truth-telling more prevalent in our own lives? Can we be trusted to tell the truth by those around us? Are we people, as a whole, who are known for being honest?
May God give us the strength to continue to follow Jesus’ words and example and be known as people who tell the truth!
In Christ,
Bobby Kirkpatrick
Christian Faith and Beliefs
Josh will be leading a Christian Faith and Beliefs class at the Bunce household on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. starting tomorrow night.  This class is open to all adults. Whether you’re new to the faith or a more seasoned follower, this class is for you if you’re looking for a community of people who want to journey together in becoming deeper disciples of Jesus. Josh and Marcy and family live at 1303 Yorkshire Dr in Friendswood. We hope you feel welcome to journey with us.
Women’s Bible Studies
Women’s Morning Bible Study will begin on tomorrow, September 4th at 9:00 AM in the Coffee Cafe. We will study from Planted for the next 12 weeks over disciplines of Christian Faith. There is a link to purchase the book below. While purchasing the book is highly encouraged, it is not required to participate. There is also a link to “let us know you are coming” which includes a place to sign up for childcare. We look forward to studying together.
Purchase Planted Here
Let Us Know You’re Coming!
Beginning September 18th, Women’s Evening Bible Study returns and will be studying from Epic of Eden: Jonah. This bible study meets at Susan Tam’s home on Wednesday Evenings at 6:30 PM. If you have questions about the study, you can contact Susan by email.  There is a link to purchase this book below.
Purchase Epic of Eden: Jonah Here
Sunday Evening Activities
While students have been back at Fuse and Core the last few weeks, Kidzone and the Luke Bible Study start back this Sunday night. Kidzone meets in the gym at 5:00 pm and Bible Study meets in the Coffee Cafe, also at 5:00 pm.
Student Ministries Update
Fuse and Core
FUSE is a weekly gathering for 6th-8th grade students that meets Sunday nights during the school year from 6:00-7:00pm. Enter the Friends Center and head to the gym for a time of games, snacks, and a brief Bible lesson.
CORE is a weekly gathering for 9th-12th grade students that meets Sunday nights during the school year from 7:30-9:00pm. Students are welcome to arrive after 7:00pm to hangout before CORE begins. Expect to worship through music, participate in engaging lessons from High School students and adults, and play games. Enter the Friends Center and head up the stairs.
Snacks and Drinks
Each week at FUSE and CORE, we provide a snack and drink. The next time you are at the grocery store, would you be willing to pick up a case of water, some Capri Suns, individual bags of chips, individual bags of cookies, Cheez-its, Rice Krispie treats, or your students favorite snack to share with our youth group?
Donation Sign Up
HS Volleyball Tournament
The Annual High School Volleyball Tournament is set for September 15th 7:00-9:30 PM. Each high school team needs a minimum of 6 players, a team name, and costumes are highly encouraged. Registration fee is a pair of used or new tennis shoes to be donated to Shower Ministry.

Contact Katelyn Sanders if you would be interested in volunteering as a line judge, score keeper, or helping with concessions.
FISD Students
Students at FJH and FHS have the opportunity to gather with friends at school for breakfast and devotions led by local youth pastors starting in September. This before-school opportunity is brought to you by Club One!
What’s Next | FJH | 2nd & 4th Monday each month | 8:00 AMRight Now | FHS | 3rd Tuesday each month | 8:00 AM
Registration through FISD Community Ed is not required to attend but does help ensure that there will be enough breakfast for everyone. Use the buttons below to register for the year!
What’s Next and Right Now Registration
Children’s Ministry Update
In beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1
This Sunday’s bible story was centered around Adam and Eve, and we learned that God will NEVER stop loving us, even when we do something wrong! Together we prayed: Dear Lord, thank You for the rules You have set for me. Even though I might not always understand why You have the rules, I do thank You for when You show me that I am doing what is right. Amen.
Here are some fun ideas for families to do together this week:
• Play a short game of hide-and-seek with your family. Then thank God that you do not need to hide from Him when you do things that are wrong.
• If possible, go to a garden with your family and look at the beautiful things God has made. As you walk, discuss what you think the Garden of Eden looked like. Play “I spy” by saying “I spy something God made on the [name a day of Creation].”
• Talk about ways to say “no” when you are tempted to do something wrong. Thank God for helping you to do what is right and for forgiving you when you do something wrong.
Tweens begins this Thursday, September 5th!
The first Gym Kids is September 6th.
Fall Potluck
There will be Fall Potluck on September 29th after the service. We are excited to gather and share a meal together. There is a link to sign up below, or look for paper sign ups in the Coffee Cafe on Sunday.
Potluck Sign Up
Bell Friends
Bell Friends, bring your lunch on Thursday at 11:00 and let’s enjoy a meal together before beginning rehearsals. Regular rehearsal times are Thursdays 12:30-2:00 PM.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1