If you prefer to print the newsletter, you may download it here: Printable February 2026 . Here is also a printable calendar: February: 02 2026 Calendar
elder’s perspective
“the year of jubilee”
By Ben West, Elder
In Luke 4, Jesus says the Spirit of God has anointed him to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. Here he quotes Isaiah 61 to inform his listeners that He is the fulfillment of the Year of Jubilee from Leviticus 25.
In ancient Israel, God claimed ownership of all the land, yet the land was distributed among the tribes and families of the people of Israel to work and develop and profit by. God also claimed ownership of the calendar. Not only was there a weekly Sabbath, there was also a yearly Sabbath, where the people would work their land for six years and in the seventh year, they would neither plant nor harvest. Both the people and the land would rest, and subsist on the bounty God had already provided.
This seven year cycle would repeat for seven cycles, or 49 years, and on the 50th year, the nation would celebrate the year of Jubilee. During this year, debts would be released and lands would return to the families if they had sold them, so they could produce from them again. The family legacy, honor, and dignity were restored, the bonds of debt-slaves were released, and the people could once again walk and work where their ancestors had. You can see that the Jubilee was quite a cause for celebration!
Or it would have been, had it actually been observed. Sadly, there’s no evidence it ever was. To the contrary, the prophets berated the people and their leaders for neglecting the Jubilee and the Sabbath years. The Jubilee was an economic manifestation of a Theological reality. God implemented systems to keep His people free and prosperous because He loves them and because faithfulness brings a state of blessing. But the people weren’t faithful, and broke the Covenant, and so ended up in bondage and exile.
This is the image that Jesus invoked when he proclaimed the year of the Lord’s favor in his hometown synagogue. He entered a broken world as the fulfillment of an ancient promise. In Him, the debt was removed. In Him, the slave was freed. In Him, the inheritance was restored. The law was intended to produce God’s character in His people, but it failed due to human weakness. What the people failed to do, God was faithful to accomplish.
But He didn’t stop there. The year of Jubilee only came around every half century. Jesus, who IS our Jubilee, is always with us! He can free us from our debt of sin anytime. He can restore us to our community whenever we ask.
And just as the Jubilee brought a return to productivity in the fields, so our Jubilee in Christ prepares us to be productive in the work of His Kingdom. We are at home when we labor alongside Christ to bring in a bountiful harvest.
We find ourselves today at the beginning of a new year. Let’s make 2026 a year that truly showcases the spirit of Jubilee!
Three-part elder roundtable gatherings
Over the past several years, Longview Community Church has been prayerfully strengthening its leadership model and aligning its ministries, structures, and resources with our shared Vision, Mission, and Values. As we move into a season of greater stability and growth, the Elders want to offer an opportunity for open conversation, shared understanding, and mutual encouragement.
To that end, the Elders are hosting three Roundtable Gatherings, each offered twice to accommodate schedules. Together, these gatherings tell one story of how LvCC is living out our calling to be Empowered by Christ, Equip the Saints, and Seek the Lost—while also clarifying what remains unchanged at the heart of LvCC.
Each gathering will focus on one aspect of our life together:
February Sunday 22nd 8:30 – 9:45am Chapel or Tuesday 24th 6:30 – 8:00pm Fellowship Hall
Worship & Governance How worship and biblical leadership shape our life together at LvCC, grounding our structure and practices in a clear biblical model. Elders will discuss their role as spiritual leaders, membership as a shared responsibility, and recent clarifications to our governing documents that support the church’s life and mission.
March Sunday 22nd 8:30 – 9:45am Chapel or Tuesday 24th 6:30 – 8:00pm Fellowship Hall
Discipleship & Community How moving from program-based ministry toward integrated, people-centered discipleship that invites the whole body into active participation through community groups and shared pastoral care. The elders will highlight collaborative leadership practices, and explain related bylaw updates that support a healthier, more engaged church life.
April Sunday 26th 8:30 – 9:45am Chapel or Tuesday 28th 6:30 – 8:00pm Fellowship Hall
Mission & Stewardship How stewarding people, finances, and facilities mobilizes disciples to serve our neighbors and strengthen community partnerships. The elders will also discuss how being good, safe, and established neighbors shapes our outreach and how related bylaw updates support long-term mission and leadership health.
These conversations reflect our mission to share opportunities to experience the presence of God—in worship, discipleship, and through tangible acts of mission.
We encourage you to attend as many sessions as your schedule allows. Your presence matters as we seek to experience the presence of God together. You may use this link Elder Roundtable Sign Up or the printed form at the Welcome Center to sign up.
We are grateful to walk this road with you.
In Christ and for His Church,
The Elders of Longview Community Church
elder meeting highlights
Jay Holland called the meeting to order at 5:07pm. The Elders spent time praying for the prayer cards from Prayer Sunday, followed by discussion of the first three chapters of “The Biblical Role of Elders.”
Jaime Boaglio reported that November was a good month and in the black by about $10,000, mostly due to contributions being up and expenses remaining in line. The YTD deficit at the end of November was still close to $76,000. December was also a good month, with contributions of almost $74,000. The YTD Net Income ended up being about -$32,000.
Jay reported that the new, larger condensate pump will be installed next week. He also said he is planning to work on getting some grants to help cover some of the capital projects, but in the meantime he wanted to confirm the priority order for doing the projects. Dave Hendrickson commented that the new Condensate Pump will need to come out of that fund and suggested we do the projects that maintain the building or grounds first, and hold the more aesthetic or upgrade projects until later.
Patty Howland shared that she and Dave met with conductors Rob Davis and David Walworth and the SWW Symphony board chairman to review this past year’s concerts and discuss plans for next year. There were 311 at the Saturday concert and over 550 at the Sunday one, probably because older people prefer an afternoon concert to an evening one! There was discussion about how to better balance the attendance and/or better accommodate the numbers. They do like the space at LvCC and would like to be able to continue to have the concerts here. The dates for 2026 have been set for December 12 and 13, times to be determined.
Ben West shared that at the last Missions meeting they met with the full team. They discussed reinstating the Mission of the Month with a Missions feature wall in the Lobby displaying missionaries and organizations we support and highlighting one or two each month. They also talked about the “Adopt a Missionary” initiative to get community groups and people of the congregation more involved with our missionaries. He and Lorraine Little shared some about the July mission trip to Uganda which will have an educational focus.
Dave explained there is confusion in the Highlands community between our building and the HNA community center. He asked the Elders to be thinking about potential new names. Dave also shared that because of storm damage in December, the Highlands Baptist congregation (30-35 people) is looking for a place to worship when repairs are made on their building for 4-6 months and they asked about using 20th & Beech. Dave, Jay and Patty met with their leadership at the site and they thought the space would work well. Dave asked them to provide their Statement of Beliefs and evidence of liability insurance before this would happen.
Patty shared that Church Mutual has agreed to provide property insurance for 20th & Beech for $2332 as opposed to the current provider’s cost of $8600! She will try to coordinate to start the coverage on March 1.
The meeting adjourned at 8:10pm, after a brief Executive Session.
lay counselors recognized
During the service on Jan 25, we heard from Elizabeth Jacobsen, Dr. David deVidal, Charlotte Yarbrough, and Dr. Steve Meharg, a few of the Lay Counseling counselors and administrators, who shared about the history and impact of the Lay Counseling ministry over the past 47 years at Community Church and throughout the community. The many volunteer counselors were acknowledged during a slideshow and at a reception following the service. As Steve explained, both in person and in the December newsletter, the Lay Counseling ministry is ending for a variety of reasons, but mainly due to lack of counselors and clients. He shared that he is grateful for the opportunity to have worked with the ministry, and is looking forward to see how the Lay Counseling Center rooms will be utilized to provide new ministry opportunities in the future!
youth news
By Israel Rutherford, Director of Youth
Over the last few weeks, our youth group has been digging into the book of Luke and spending time talking honestly about who Jesus is, how He meets us in real life, and what it looks like to actually trust Him. We’ve had great discussions, thoughtful questions, and moments where students have been willing to speak up and share what they’re really thinking. It’s been encouraging to watch students lean in, wrestle with their faith, and begin to connect what we’re learning on Sundays with their everyday lives.
Looking ahead, we have some exciting things coming up that we don’t want you to miss! Super Bowl Party – February 8 We’ll be hosting a Super Bowl Party on Sunday, February 8 at 3:30pm. This will be a fun, relaxed night with games, food, and plenty of time to hang out together. It’s a great opportunity for -students to invite friends and just enjoy being together.
Alpha Course – On February 15, we’ll be launching a brand-new 10-week Alpha Course. Alpha is a space for students to ask honest questions, explore faith, and have meaningful conversations in a safe and welcoming environment. Whether a student is brand new to faith or has grown up in church, Alpha is designed to meet them where they are. Thank you so much for your continued support, prayers, and encouragement. We’re excited for what’s ahead and grateful to walk alongside these students as they grow in faith and community. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at israel@longviewcommunitychurch.org.
children’s ministry
By Sarah Fix, Director of Children’s Ministry
It has been such a beautiful January weather-wise. I’ve found myself really enjoying the sunshine and mild days, while at the same time feeling the weight of everything happening in our country and around the world.
It can feel overwhelming to keep moving through everyday life—getting kids from school to home, to doctor appointments and sports practices; prioritizing family time; reading aloud for 20 minutes; feeding through the night; changing another diaper; and trying to parent well—while also carrying our own personal struggles and processing events that feel far bigger than our day-to-day lives.
I want to encourage you with this simple verse from John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”I encourage you to talk with your kids about peace. How can we experience peace when so much around us feels uncertain—or even scary? How much more brightly can we reflect the light of Jesus in dark times when we are living from a place of peace rather than fear? My prayer is that God would fill you all with His peace as we navigate complex emotions, challenges, and decisions in this new year.
In January, I have been very busy with lots of brainstorming/planning/praying for summer activities and our year as a whole! Community Kids have been learning all about Esther this month. The story of Esther reveals how God can work through the direst of situations to bring about salvation for His people.
In February, Community Kids will be learning about how throughout the Gospels, people were surprised by Jesus because of the forbidden places that he boldly entered. He ate with sinners, healed the sick, went to Samaria, and brings Lazarus back from death. These stories show us how tenacious and far-reaching God’s love really is.
Just want to say thank you for adopting our check-in system so well and for setting that standard! I’ll continue to improve some signage, etc for that area for new families.
Important dates coming up:
-3/1 Summer Planning after church service in Fireside Room: Family Fun Nights at Community Center (20th and Beech) planning session for any who would like to help plan/volunteer (planning to have three evenings set up similarly to VBS but with families, June 25-27, with a celebration church service and food at that location on Sunday morning). Please come even if you have only a small capacity to help! This will be a time to share the vision, intent, and gather ideas of how we can all come together to make this happen and do it well!
-3/13- Guys’ Pizza and NERF NIGHT- 5:30-8pm all ages 5 and up– bring your dad, grandpa, friends for an epic capture-the-flag-nerf-edition night throughout the whole church! Let me know how many in your party to expect for pizza purposes!
-4/5- Easter Sunday Community Kids bells in service– parents, Sarah will be in contact with you about what time to bring them for a quick run through!
mission of the month: john and carol ragsdale
with transworld radio
By Ben West, Missions Team
John and Carol Ragsdale have been serving with TransWorld Radio since 1996. For 70 years, TWR has been broadcasting the Gospel through its global network of partnerships. Today, it proclaims God’s word in 200+ languages in 190 countries on air, online and on the ground.
Today, John and Carol are stationed in Cyprus, where John serves as a ministry leader for North Africa & Kurdish Ministry. Carol used to be a stay-at-home mom caring for the needs of the family over the years. Now that the children are adults and no longer at home, she is more involved in ministry related to MK (missionary kid) and TCK (third culture kid) care within TWR. She often facilitates a weekly Bible study and helps John in the worship music ministry of the local church. Both of their adult children graduated from Toccoa Falls College and are continuing to move forward with their careers.
John and Carol seek to be a witness for Christ in their family, in the local church, in their community and in their ministry with TWR.
Please pray for John and Carol, that their ministry would continue to bear fruit and bring people into the family of God.
We are honored to partner with John and Carol and to support the mission of TransWorld Radio as they faithfully serve where God has called them.
this and that
There will be a Parents Night Out on Friday, Feb 6 from 5-8pm. Free childcare, dinner and fun will be provided! Sign up here: Parents Night Out or contact Sarah Fix at sarah@longviewcommunitychurch.org.
Alpha!!! Beginning Sunday, February 15th 4-6pm! A 10-week series of sessions exploring the basics of the Christian faith in an honest, friendly, and non-judgmental environment, providing a space for open discussion on life’s big questions. Sign up here: Alpha Sign Up or on the printed form at the Welcome Center!
There will be an Ash Wednesday service in the Chapel on Feb 18 at 6pm.
Join us for the Biblical Missions Bible Study centered on the book When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. This once-a-month gathering will meet in the Journey Room on the third Sunday of each month from 9:00–9:45 AM, offering a thoughtful, Scripture-based approach to understanding missions, compassion, and meaningful help.
Refresh and reflect at the Prayer Retreat for time to discuss and share intention and gratitude for daily prayer, time for personal meditation and reflection, and time to praise God. Join us on February 14th at Mary Ross’ house at 395 Mill Creek Road. The retreat starts at 9:30 am and ends following a short, casual lunch at 12:30 pm. Elder Rob Buckingham will be sharing insights from his journey along the Camino de Santiago. Call Mary at 360-636-3771 for more info and to reserve your place.
Our local FISH ministry is in need of gently used paper or plastic shopping bags that we can use to disperse food for those who call in. If you have a pile that has been building up in the cabinet underneath your sink we would love to put them to good use! Or if you’re at the store and want to spend a couple of cents more to get some bags you don’t really need but know you’ll donate to the church, we would greatly appreciate it. There are various FISH boxes in the lobby, by the kitchen, and in the office entryway. If you can’t find the boxes drop them off in the office.
There will be a Men’s Pancake Breakfast on Feb 21 from 7-9am. This is a regular event on the 3rd Saturday of the month. Start your morning with pancakes and fellowship!
There is a new prayer-focused community group for women called River Sisters beginning on Feb 5 in the Journey Room. This community group will be a place for women who are seeking to develop the mind of Christ to gather, to learn God’s Word, and to pray. Meetings will be on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays from 6-7:30pm. Request to join using the Church Center app here: River Sisters Group . Lorraine Little will be the facilitator. Contact her at lorrlittle20@gmail.com.
If you’re interested in becoming a member at LvCC, you may contact the Church Office to have a membership packet emailed, or you may pick up a printed copy in the office.
Medical Equipment Available If you or someone you knows needs medical equipment, i.e. walker, wheelchair, commode, etc, please contact Roberta Baird at 360-430-8402.
90+ Birthdays This Month
To honor our most senior members and attenders, we will be listing their birthdays each month using the records in our database. If you or someone you know is 90+ years of age and has an upcoming birthday, please contact the Church Office by the 20th of the prior month so we may be sure to include it!
Feb 9 Marilyn Cranston 93
DECEMBER FINANCIALS
YTD CONTRIBUTIONS: $ 485.238
YTD OTHER INCOME $ 39,529
YTD EXPENSE: $ 556,636
YTD NET INCOME: -$ 31,869