May 2, 2025 - NBBC's Spirit-Led Growth and Vibrant Fellowship

Zoe Willows

Alright, so this Sunday, New Bethel Baptist is diving into John 21— "Empty Nets." Have you read that, Samuel?

Samuel Rivers

Oh, absolutely. It's where Jesus meets the disciples after the resurrection. They're out fishing, uh, coming up empty...and then, boom, He tells them to cast their nets on the other side. It's, it’s such a powerful story about faith and trust.

Zoe Willows

Right, and it ties so perfectly with NBBC's core values. Like, the whole spiritual growth thing has that "try again, but with faith" energy. I mean, those twenty-first century fishing struggles are so relatable, don’t you think?

Samuel Rivers

Haha, I don’t know if our struggles involve literal nets—but yeah, it hits home. We’ve all had seasons where—where we put in the work but feel like nothing’s happening. Pastor Dianna always has this way of connecting stories like that to life today.

Zoe Willows

Exactly! And pairing that with coffee before service? Genius. But seriously, have you ever had one of those "empty net" moments, like—a time where you kept trying, but nothing seemed to click?

Samuel Rivers

Oh, plenty. One that stands out…it was during my youth ministry days. I—I had been working so hard to reach this one kid. Just wasn’t sure anything was getting through. And then, months later, he shows up, totally lit up with this newfound faith. So often, the growth we hope for—

Zoe Willows

—doesn’t show up right away.

Samuel Rivers

Exactly. It reminds me why reflective services, like the one planned this week, are so critical. They—that space to pause, process, and trust that God’s moving, even when we don’t see it yet.

Zoe Willows

Totally. And speaking of reflection, how about the book club digging into Richard Rohr’s "Falling Upward"? It feels like the whole church vibe lately is this cool mix of let’s grow spiritually and let’s meet life where it’s at.

Samuel Rivers

Definitely. Rohr does this deep dive into how faith evolves, especially in our later years, when we’ve experienced life’s ups and downs. It’s kinda like NBBC isn’t just about Sunday services—it’s about creating a space for every stage of the journey.

Zoe Willows

That’s the thing, isn’t it? Whether you're searching, thriving, or, you know, re-casting your net, there’s something here for everyone. Falling upward— literal spiritual glow-up vibes.

Samuel Rivers

Haha, glow-up indeed. But seriously, it’s comforting to know there's a place where we can talk about these things, grow together, and rediscover faith in new ways.

Zoe Willows

For sure. And these discussions don’t just happen in books or sermons—they show up everywhere at NBBC. It all ties back to that vision of spiritual growth, family, and compassion.

Zoe Willows

Speaking of showing up and growing together, how about the Blood Drive tomorrow? It’s such a beautiful example of how this community lives out its values—not just in words, but in action.

Samuel Rivers

Absolutely. It—it’s inspiring to see the way people prioritize giving back. Blood Drive, the Community Breakfast—it’s truly a reflection of the heart of NBBC.

Zoe Willows

Right? And speaking of breakfast, mark those calendars for tomorrow and June 7th. I mean, food and fellowship, Samuel. Does it get better than that?

Samuel Rivers

Haha, not much. Those breakfasts are a perfect example of how sharing a meal can build stronger connections. It’s one of those simple acts that carries such deep meaning.

Zoe Willows

Totally. And if you need reasons to hang around NBBC during the week—get this—you’ve got Yoga on Saturdays. Free yoga. In a church. Now that’s inclusivity.

Samuel Rivers

Haha, definitely. It’s more than just inclusivity. It’s about offering physical spaces for people to, uh, refresh and reconnect—mind, body, and spirit.

Zoe Willows

True, but let me tell you, my last yoga attempt? Humbling. Downward Dog? More like Downward Disaster.

Samuel Rivers

Haha, well, it’s a journey, right? And that’s what NBBC is all about—creating spaces for everyone, whether you’re a yoga pro or, well...

Zoe Willows

...a work-in-progress. Got it. But it’s not just Yoga—we’ve got the Euchre Club, too. I don’t even know the rules, but it sounds like a blast.

Samuel Rivers

It is. Games like Euchre bring such a joyful spirit of connection. It’s another way NBBC lives out that vision of, uh, family and acceptance.

Zoe Willows

Okay, but let’s talk about this Meijer Simply Give Campaign. Because you can literally help people just by picking up a card and shopping. Did I get that right?

Samuel Rivers

You did. It’s such a simple way to support God’s Bounty, our local food pantry. And the best part? Every purchase gets matched by Meijer, doubling the impact. It’s compassion in action.

Zoe Willows

That’s amazing. So, grab a card from Meijer or the church office, and boom, instant good deed.

Zoe Willows

Alright, Samuel, speaking of ways this community gets together, let’s dive into the Annual Ladies Banquet on May 10, because a celebration from noon to 2:00 sounds like an absolute vibe.

Samuel Rivers

It really does. This banquet isn’t just a meal—it’s a chance to celebrate the incredible women of the community and to connect in such a meaningful way. Everyone’s welcome, and honestly, it’s one of those can’t-miss events.

Zoe Willows

Okay, but can I just say, a ticketed event in a church that’s open to everyone? That’s inclusivity on, like, a whole new level.

Samuel Rivers

Absolutely. And the best part is how these events make everyone feel like they belong. If anyone’s on the fence, I’d just say—go for it. Reach out to Ruth Ann Mills for a ticket. You won’t regret it.

Zoe Willows

Love it. And right after that, we’re rolling into Movie Night on May 17 with "The Forge." A coming-of-age story that doubles as a faith journey? Count me in.

Samuel Rivers

Yeah, it’s got everything—a relatable lead character, Isaiah, trying to figure out his future, and how faith and life decisions intersect. Watching that together as a community? It’s powerful storytelling at its best.

Zoe Willows

So what you're saying is, grab some popcorn and watch lives change. Literally. Love it.

Samuel Rivers

Haha, something like that. But it’s more than just the movie. It’s the conversations that happen after—the, you know, shared reflections that make the experience even richer.

Zoe Willows

That’s the magic, right? Whether it’s a banquet, a movie, or a little questionable Euchre skill—I feel like NBBC finds a way to make all of it meaningful.

Samuel Rivers

Exactly. It’s not just what we do; it’s how we do it—as a family, with acceptance and compassion, and always anchored in faith.

Zoe Willows

Well, on that heartfelt note, that’s a wrap for today’s episode of "What’s Up NBBC." Thanks for hanging out with us!

Samuel Rivers

And don’t forget to check out those upcoming events. Whether you’re sharing a laugh, a meal, or a moment of reflection, there’s a place here for you.

Zoe Willows

Until next time, keep spreading the love and living the vision. See ya!

Samuel Rivers

See ya!