We are a community of believers, united in Christ, who are devoted to proclaiming and obeying the word of God.
Sunday Worship 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM | 1976 Scenic Dr. Fortuna CA

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- Sound Doctrine Conference | First Baptist Church Fortuna
Sound Doctrine in accordance with the gospel. An annual conference held the last week in April. 2026 Registration Sound Doctrine Conference Sound doctrine in accordance with the gospel But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Titus 2:1 - ESV Theology of Worship What is worship? This word is broadly used by different people and religions, but what do Christians mean by the word worship? Even Christians use the word in very different ways. This of course causes all sorts of confusion in the Church. This year’s Sound Doctrine Conference will turn our attention to worship by looking at the biblical theology of worship in four areas (words) of worship. In addition to the four topics covered there will be a panel discussion on Worship in the Local Church. Worship: A Biblical Theology of Worship Sacrifice [Session 1 - Friday] Pastor Jason Hunt : Grace Baptist Church of Eureka Praise [Session 2 - Saturday] Pastor Philip Blazek : Hydesville Community Church Service [Session 3 - Saturday] Pastor Rob Foster : Pelican Bay Church of Crescent City Q&A [Session 4 - Saturday] Worship in the Local Church (Panel Discussion) Pure [Session 5 - Saturday] Pastor John Carter First Baptist Church of Fortuna Register Conference Merch @ Redbubble 2026 Cost $60 Per Household ($30 for Singles) The Sound Doctrine Conference is made possible by the sacrificial giving of FBC Fortuna and generous supporters. If you would like to donate you may do so at the conference or online. Support Friday Night there is a potluck dinner at 6 PM. Saturday lunch is provided. Friday at Noon there is a Pastor's Lunch and Fellowship. There is no child care provided. However children are welcome to attend. The Training Room and Nursery (babies - 4) will be available for parents to use with their children.. The sessions will be available to watch from the Training Room. Did we mention that we love to give away books? Each year we gather together some useful books that promote sound doctrine and godliness. [One set of books per household.] The Sound Doctrine Conference takes place at First Baptist Church of Fortuna 1976 Scenic Dr. Fortuna, CA Google Map On Friday at 12 PM there is a FREE Pastor's lunch and fellowship. This time is open to Men who are currently serving as a Pastor (or Elder/Overseer). After lunch and a time to fellowship with one another a Pastor will bring a word of encouragement and exhortation. Pastor, you are encouraged to attend even if you are not able to attend the main conference. Please register if you plan on attending. Register Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted. 1 Timothy 1:8-11 - ESV PREVIOUS CONFERENCES Sound Doctrine Conference (Creeds and Confessions) - 2025 Sound Doctrine Conference (Love of God) - 2024 Sound Doctrine Conference (Image Dei - Male and Female) - 2023 Sound Doctrine (The Church) - 2022 Sound Doctrine (Godliness) - 2021 Missions Conference (Church Planting Churches) - 2020 Missions Conference (Church History) - 2019 More audio at www.musicatheologica.com Videos on YouTube
- Contact | FBC Fortuna
Let's Chat Have a question or need to talk to someone? Use the form below and a Pastor or Deacon will get back to you. Phone 707.725.2595 Email fbcfortuna@outlook.com Social Media First Name Last Name Email Message Reason for contact General Facility Use Request Biblical Counseling Prayer Request Benevolence Phone Send Thanks for submitting!
- Welcome | First Baptist Church Fortuna
Welcome to FBC Fortuna! We a community of believers who are devoted to preaching and obeying the word of God. Come join us for worship every Sunday at 11:00 AM for Worship. www.fbcfortuna.com 1/6 The Gospel In the beginning... God created everything. Not only did God create everything, but because he is good, he also gave us the law. The demand of the law was perfection. Failure to obey the law perfectly came with the penalty of death, but the reward of obedience was life. Instead of obedience we have each chosen to disobey God's law. The Bad News. We chose to sin. Therefore, sinners, who are condemned to death, are in need of forgiveness of sin and salvation from death (the wrath of God). The Good News (Gospel) Sinners can be forgiven and can be saved from death, their sins, and God’s wrath through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ Jesus alone. Now What? Those who have been saved are commanded to obey the gospel by: Repenting (turn from sins to Jesus) and Confess (make publicly known) your sins. Believe that Jesus Christ is God. Be Baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Commit yourself to a local body of believers (a church). And make Disciples of all Nations. Want to learn more? Then join us this Sunday. We look forward to meeting you. I'm New When We Gather Here's Some Regular times we gather 9:45 AM 60 Minutes Sunday School Our Sunday School program is designed to teach the entire Bible in 3-year cycles. We have age-appropriate for Adults, Youth, and Children. Our children’s classes are taught by teachers who love Jesus and love their students. 5:30 PM Sunday Prayer Meeting {No Meeting on the First Sunday} Prayer is a great privilege given to the people of God. We are promised that he will hear us when we pray and that he will answer. We believe that God is living and good. Therefore, we make prayer a part of regular church life. We prayer to the Father, in the name of the Son in the power of the Holy Spirit. 11:00 AM 90 Minutes Morning Worship Service Our times of corporate worship are centered on the exaltation of the Living God. This includes reading, preaching, and teaching of the word of God as well as prayer, singing, giving, baptism, communion (Lord’s Supper), and time of confession. We encourage family members of all ages to join us to worship together. 6:00 PM 60 Minutes Evening Worship Service {No Meeting on the First Sunday} Our times of evening worship are an opportunity to continue in worship centered on the exaltation of the Living God. Our evening worship has a times of extended prayer, singing, and the preaching of the word First Sunday Potluck Join the FBC family the first Sunday of each month to enjoy a meal together. Please bring enough food to feed your household and to share with others. After the meal the leftovers will be packaged up and delivered to the poor and hungry. Mid-week Small Groups With members from all over the Humboldt County we have established small groups to help minister to each other throughout the week. The purpose of these small groups is to encourage regular fellowship, discipleship, and one-another ministry among the members spread throughout Humboldt County.
- Kids | First Baptist Church Fortuna
JESUS & KIDS Jesus was very clear, kids are important to him and his kingdom. That means that kids are important to us too! This has led us to make some very important decisions on how we function as a community of believers. First, we are a Family-Integrated Church. This means that we try to keep age segregated activities to a minimum. Kids in worship, Bible Study, or any other context is not a problem to be solved. It is a gift to be embraced. Second, we are protective of any child entrusted to us. This means we have set-up some ways to help you as a parent know that we are looking out for both the spiritual and the physical safety of your kids. CHECK-IN & PICK-UP The first time you come you may discover everyone has not met you yet. So to ensure that you leave with the same kids that you brought we check-in every child from birth through 6th grade. Please enter the front of the Main building to check-in your kids. A friendly greeter will be there to help you with this process. Check-in usually begins about 15 minutes before class (about 9:30 AM) and each kid needs to be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of class (before 11 AM). The person who checks-in the child will also need to pick up the child. To speed up the check-in process, please consider providing us with your kid's information in advance by filling out the form below. REGISTER HERE LOOK FOR TAGS When you first arrive you may notice that the teaches have printed tags with their name. Anyone with a "TEACHER" tag is safe to leave your child with. Every person who works with children is a member of FBC Fortuna, has gone through an application process, and has passed a background check. RUNNING LATE We've been there. You're running late because the shoe clogged the toilet and you're not eve n sure you brushed your teeth. That's okay! We have restrooms and no one will notice you eating breath mints like candy. However, we do lock the doors to the t wo-story building at 10 AM. After this time you will need to enter through the main entrance (large brick building with the cross on top). W e want to make sure we are aware of any guests on the church grounds so someone will greet you and make sure you make it to the right class. If you have any questions please contact Lexi (Kids Sunday School Coordinator) or Pastor John.
- Marriage Retreat | First Baptist Church Fortuna
DATE & COST February 14, 2026 | 2 pm - 8 pm Cost: TBA Includes: An Elegant Dinner, a book for him and her, and a chance to strengthen your marriage This retreat is available for couples who are married, or engaged with a date. Join John and Katie Carter as they teach about the high's and lows of marriage in the comfort of their living room. They were married in 2004 and have four boys. They don't have a perfect marriage, but over the years they have learned through Scripture what it takes to have a godly marriage. Format The retreat will consist of multiple sessions where different topics on marriage are discussed. The Bible will be heavily relied upon to guide these sessions. Breaks, snacks, and laughs will abound. Dinner with dessert will be at 6 PM. Registration Space is limited to seven (7) couples (married or engaged with a date). Priority will be given to those who have registered and paid. Children/Babies As a courtesy to other couples and to foster an intimate environment, other plans will need to be made for children and babies. Register
- 4: Serve | FBC Fortuna
How We Serve We are called to serve, not to be served (Matthew 20:26-28; 1 Corinthains 14). In fact, all Christians have spiritual gifts so that they can serve one another. Serving one another is done primarily in our everyday life. However, there are also many ways to serve one other within the church. No Christian should ever wait for an ‘official’ program, position or title before they begin to be obedient to the commands of Jesus to serve. Therefore, these areas of service should be seen as possible entry points to serving others and not as the only way to obey the word of God. “Community” Ministries and Teams The church is a body of believers gathered for the sake of worshiping the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Here are some ways to serve when we are normally gathered for worship. Worship: Psalm reader (men), music/singing, sound board, slides/lyrics, worship guide, baptism assistants, communion. Member Care: visitation & prayer team; hospitality: kitchen, meal trains; safety: a-frames, parking lot, greeters, ushers/security, lock up. “Discipleship” Ministries and Teams Discipleship begins in the home, but there are still many ways to disciple or be discipled. Here are some ministries that facilitate formal discipleship opportunities. Small Groups: Sunday School (teachers, assistants, check-in, etc.), mid-week groups, library, resource table. Ministry Training: elder training, deacons training, families, children, etc. Sound Doctrine Conference: The planning team will announce serving opportunities. “Serve” Ministries and Teams Being part of a community comes with a lot of moving parts. Facilities, Finance, Communication, and Administration teams help ensure that the small details of church life and the responsibilities of having a building are not neglected. Whether you like crunching numbers, posting on social media, moving a heavy object, or dusting, there is always something to do behind the scenes. Although a church does not need a building, we have been entrusted with a building. Therefore, we desire to show excellency in stewarding our facilities to better facilitate ministry and to leave these facilities in better condition for future generations. Finances: Counters, Benevolence, Finance Team. Facilities: Building and grounds, Cleaning, Maintenance, Remodel Work, Quarterly Work Days, aesthetics (decorating), event coordinating (weddings and other facility). Administration: Office, communication, digital content, bulletin boards/signage, calendaring, documents, print media. “Go” Ministries and Teams Evangelism begins in the home. As a church here are some additional ways to continue to share the gospel and support those who are devoted to that end. Visitor Follow-up: cards, emails, phone calls, visits. Evangelism Teams: street teams, “Serving Food. Serving People,” outreach. Missions (Sending/Supporting): Mission Trip (national/international), point of contact, pulpit fill. Sanctity of Life: The church exists to glorify God. Serving others is one way this is done. These opportunities offer different ways to serve as you become steeped in the lives of others. We know that there are many ways and opportunities to serve. We know this because although the harvest is plentiful the workers are still few. Elders The Elders (also known as overseers or pastors) serve primarily through the word and prayer. They also oversee the vision of the church and seek the welfare of the church. Men are considered for the role of Elder based on the qualifications found in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Deacons The Deacons assist the Elders by managing certain physical, material, or service needs of the church. Men are considered for the role of Deacon based on the qualifications found in 1 Timothy 3. These men lead ministry or stewardship teams under the oversight of the Elders. The deacon ministry exists to protect the unity of the church. Kids and Safety All adults working with children are required to pass a background check and participate in regualr mandatory training.
- Resources | First Baptist Church Fortuna
The Classical Christian Education (CCE) minsitry of FBC is for parents and teachers who are passionate about CCE. It exists to (1) propagate Classical Christian Education, and (2) support parents who take seriously the responsibility to educate their children. The CCEIM are a ministry of FBC Fortuna that is open to those outside of FBC Fortuna. RESOURCES We are first and foremost devoted to the Word of God. Nevertheless, there are many resources available to the modern believer. Although these resources generally align with FBC's statement of faith, it is still the responsibility of every believer to be a good Berean and to test the contents of these websites with the Scriptures. Bible Studies ESV Bible (with Study/Language Tools) Bible Hub Treasury of Scripture Knowledge Church Library Online list of books in our Library (Libib) Pastor John's Study & Library Musica Theologica - Pastor John's Sermons and Writings Pastor John's Study (Room 206) Pastor John's Library {These resources are available upon request. Some area available to check-out, others will need to stay in the study. Talk to Pastor John if you have any questions.} Missions and Evangelism HeartCry Missionary Society Joshua Project Wretched Radio Current Events and The Church Founders Ministries The Briefing with Al Mohler Just Thinking 9 Marks Worship Matters Ref Net American Gospel TV Answers In Genesis Church History Hall of Church History Counseling Help Please email fbcfortuna@utlook.com if you need to speak to a pastor. IBCD (The Institute for Biblical Counseling & Discipleship) Homeschool and Classical Christian Education Logos School Logos Press Veritas Press Sanctity of Life Ministries PreBorn Abolition Rising Church Search Church and Family Life Network Fellowship of Independent Reformed Evangelicals (FIRE) Founder's Ministries G3 Ministries Master's Seminary 9 Marks
- Classical Christian Education | First Baptist Church Fortuna
The City on a Hill ministry of FBC is for parents and teachers who are passionate about CCE. It exists to (1) propagate Classical Christian Education, and (2) support parents who take seriously the responsibility to educate their children. The CCEIM are a ministry of FBC Fortuna that is open to those outside of FBC Fortuna. Welcome Are you looking for a better approach to educate your child? City on a Hill is a ministry effort of FBC Fortuna that works with parents to improve in their role and to assist with the education of their children. There are two ways that this is accomplished. First, during the school year, we host bi-monthly Parent Training Classes. Second, we host weekly Co-op Classes. To learn more, continue reading below. To stay in the loop with the different opportunities going on at City on a Hill, email cityonahillcce@outlook.com or sign up and get connected to our community here . City on a Hill A community for parents of homeschoolers, private schoolers, public schoolers, and future schoolers. Homeschool Co-op A cooperation of homeschooling families to help one another educate their children within a Classical Christian Education model. Parent Training Classes Bi-monthly classes for parents who take seriously the responsibility to educate their children and are passionate about Classical Christian Education. Music Recital We are always looking for budding young performers who are being trained in their instrument of choice. If you are interested in performing, please submit your name, grade, instrument, and title of piece to cityonahillcce@outlook.com . Space is limited. You do not need to be a participant of the Parent Training Meetings or the Co-op to perform or to attend. Fall Music Recital | November 22, 2025 – Saturday at 2 PM Spring Music Recital | March 28, 2026 – Saturday at 2 PM The recital will be held at: First Baptist Church of Fortuna 1976 Scenic Drive Fortuna, CA 95540 COAH Homeschool Co-op A cooperation of homeschooling families to help one another educate their children within a Classical Christian Education model. The co-op meets weekly on Tuesdays. Applications Please turn in your application or send it in via email to cityonahillcce@outlook.com . Student Application Deadline: August 5, 2025 Teacher/Tutor Application Deadline: June 24, 2025 Dates & Deadlines Teacher Training: August 5th, 2025 (6:30 PM) Back to CoaH Night: August 12, 2025 (6:30 PM) New Student Orientation: August 16, 2025 (10 AM - 12 PM) FALL SEMESTER BEGINS: August 19, 2025 SPRING SEMESTER BEGINS: January 13, 2026 Registration Fees (Costs) Family with a teacher/tutor $375.00 + books & materials Family without a teacher/tutor $750.00 + books & materials $20 per semester for families only participating in the Reading Hour (K – 2nd) Semester fees can be made in person or online at http://fbcfortuna.churchcenter.com/giving/to/city-on-a-hill-co-op Applications: 2025-2026 Student Application 2025-2026 Teacher Application COAH Co-op Classes 2025 - 2026 (Updated 01/07/2026) Veritas Press: Old Testament and Ancient Egypt (Grades 2-6) Covering events from Creation to The Fall of Egypt, Veritas Press History provides the student with the building blocks to understand a historical timeline. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Omnibus I: Biblical and Classical Civilizations (Grades 7-9) Omnibus I is an integrated approach to history, literature, and theology which focuses on the Ancient World and important contemporary works. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Click here for a complete list of the Veritas Press Omnibus books. Omnibus IV: The Ancient World (Grades 10-12) Omnibus VI is an integrated approach to history, literature, and theology beginning with the Ancient World and covering significant works of modern Western culture. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Click here for a complete list of the Veritas Press Omnibus books. Apologia Biology (Grades 9-12) Covers the first half of the Biology textbook, emphasizing foundational things from the microscopic (cells, genes) to the macroscopic (ecology). Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Apologia Physics (Grades 11-12) Covers the first half of the Physics textbook, applying mathematical equations of the Newtonian Laws for vectors corresponding to an object’s parallel, diagonal, circular, or parabolic course of travel (or in the case of no movement, the object’s inertia). Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Introductory Logic (Grades 7-12) A yearlong introduction to logic utilizing Introductory Logic: The Fundamentals of Thinking Well . Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Technical Drafting (Grades 7-12) Improving dexterity with pencil and drawing board for visualizing and creating objects in 2D orthogonal views, 3D isometric views, 3D perspective views, and with tables, diagrams, assembly instructions, rendering, line weight hierarchy, and technical penmanship also covered. Fall Syllabus IEW: All Things Fun and Fascinating (Grades 3-6) This IEW Level A course introduces structure and style through weekly writing assignments on weird and wonderful subjects. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Logos Latin 1 (Grades 3-6) An introduction to learning Latin, with each weekly lesson including the rigorous study of vocabulary, chants, derivatives, and worksheets. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Logos Latin 2 (Grades 4-6) After reviewing material from Logos Latin 1, this course introduces new chants, grammar concepts, and vocabulary. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Kraken Latin I (Grades 7-9) Introducing fundamental Latin grammar concepts alongside weekly worksheets and memorization, this course equips students to read and translate Latin. Fall S yllabus Spring Syllabus Math Tutoring - Study Hall This is a guided study hall in which students will spend their time quietly studying, completing homework, or asking questions about mathematics. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Primary Arts of Language (Grades K-2) The Primary Arts of Language (PAL) lays the foundation for printing along with an introduction to Story Summaries, copy work with a gentle introduction to basic English grammar, and then moving into composition. Fall Syllabus Spring Syllabus Parent Training Classes Do you need a little more help or encouragement in figuring out this thing called parenting? If so join us for a Parent Training Class. Parent Training Classes are bi-monthly meetings for parents/teachers who are passionate about Classical Christian Education and who take seriously the responsibility to educate their children. Here you'll meet other parents facing the same struggles that you are. You do not need to be a participant in the Homeschool co-op to participate. Be sure to sign-up to get email reminders about upcoming meetings. Schedule 2nd Tuesday of every other month | 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Each Meeting will consist of parts: Bible Study, Lesson, and an open Q&A. There are also rumors of goodies to munch on. September 9, 2025 Topic: Family Driven Faith by Voddie Baucham Jr. (Chapters 9 & 10) November 11, 2025 Topic: Building a Godly Home, Volume I: A Holy Vision for Family Life by William Gouge (Chapter 11) January 13, 2026 Topic: Building a Godly Home, Volume I: A Holy Vision for Family Life by William Gouge (Chapter 12) March 10, 2026 Topic: Building a Godly Home, Volume 3: A Holy Vision for Raising Children by William Gouge (Chapters 1 & 2) May 12, 2026 Topic: Building a Godly Home, Volume 3: A Holy Vision for Raising Children by William Gouge (Chapters 3 & 4) Values Download our complete Mission, Vision, Values, and Doctrine The Gospel of Jesus Christ We believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ as revealed in the New Testament, prophesied in the Old Testament, and proclaimed throughout all of Church history. Narrow Doors, Tall Hallways Narrow Doors, Tall Hallways Male Leadership We believe men are called to lead in the church, the home, and in government. Parental Ownership We believe parents (not churches, schools, or governments) are ultimately responsible for the spiritual and intellectual training of their children. Classical Christian Education Our common model for educating our students with a Christian worldview is through a Classical Christian Education framework. Learn more about the Classical Education by reading Dorothy Sayer's The Lost Tools of Learning . Rigorous Learning We believe that learning is work and therefore should be rigorous (even when it becomes harder in the logic and rhetoric years). Winsomely Passionate Teachers We believe students will learn to love what their teachers love. Parents Who Love to Read and Learn We believe a good education never ends.
- Directions | First Baptist Church Fortuna
A Church on a Hill As you make your way to FBC Fortuna you’ll quickly discover that we truly are a church on a hill. While many churches can be found on major roadways, our church building is located on the top of a hill overlooking the Fortuna. When the weather is pleasant we can even see the ocean just past of Ferndale. This beautiful view comes with a unique driving experience. Directions (Follow the Signs) When heading North on Fortuna Blvd. Take a right onto Rohnerville Rd. at the bend. Then follow the signs up the hill. When heading East on Main St. take a left turn at the bend onto Rohnerville Rd. Then follow the signs up the hill. When Heading West on Rohnerville Rd. take a right onto Newel Dr. Then follow the signs up the hill. (Follow the Signs across from Ray’s Food Place) Once you have found the signs they will take you North onto Newel Dr. You will take your first left. This road will go up a hill and then have a switchback to the right. Going further you will come to a fork in the road. Go left onto Arnold Way. Going up this hill you will take your first left onto Scenic Dr. The church will be on your right. Two-Lots On approaching the church building there will be two parking lots. The first lot you come to has ADA parking spaces as well as visitor and senior parking spaces. This gravel lot is accessible all year long. Our second parking lot is past the church building and is a grass lot. At this time, this parking lot is limited to vehicles with 4-wheel drive during raining days. You can also access the Rohner Park Trail from this parking lot. Double Parking Due to limited parking, on some occasions you may be directed to double parking within our parking lots. In this case a parking lot greeter will direct you to the appropriate spot. In the event you are double parked you will need to be sure to move your vehicles immediately after the service. Again, a parking lot greeter will help direct you out of the parking lot. Street Parking Although there is limited street parking, all street parking should be left open. This will allow us to maintain a good reputation with our neighbors. Alternate Parking If at all possible please consider carpooling with others or even parking at Rohner Park and hiking the trail to come to church.
- Give Online | First Baptist Church Fortuna
SACRIFICIAL GIVING Sacrificial giving is part of being obedient to Jesus Christ. Being faithful stewards is not optional. Our church has an obligation to provide materially for those who labor in preaching and teaching, to support the needs of the poor among us, to care for those in need around us, and to give for the spread of the gospel. In our context we have found that having a church building assists us in our ministry endeavors, therefore we have the further responsibility of stewardship in regards to our building. For the FBC family, sacrificial giving and faithful stewardship includes regular giving for the support of our Elder(s), the support of FBC ministries, and the responsibilities of owning a building. It also includes spontaneous giving as God leads each of us to give sacrificially in our daily lives. GIVE ONLINE STEWARDSHIP CLASS Once a year we offer a six-week stewardship class. This class is meant to equip the participants with the doctrine and practical application needed to better steward the finances entrusted to them.
- Leadership | First Baptist Church Fortuna
Head & Chief Shepherd Jesus is the head of the Church and the Chief Shepherd (Pastor). Under his authority will the church grow and be led. Lead Elder/ Pastor John Carter Serving as the Lead Elder, it is Pastor John's responsibility to Oversee the spiritual health of FBC Fortuna. His responsibility also includes overseeing the preaching and teaching, as well as the vision of FBC Fortuna. You can learn more about Pastor John by going to musicatheologica.com. Elder/ Pastor Steven Fetters Serving as an Elder, it is Pastor Steven's responsibility to Oversee the spiritual health of FBC Fortuna. In addition to pastoral care he is also responsible for evangelism, Sunday School, and communication. Deacon of Worship Services & Communications Ben De Leon To allow the Elder's to remain focused on the ministry of the word and prayer, the worship services deacon serves by helping to manage the administrative needs of the Sunday Morning Worship Services. If you would like to help serve in this area, please contact the worship services deacon. FBC Church Member Every church member is responsible for the health and future of our church. This means no church member can sit back and 'let the professionals' do their job. The Elder's equip the saints for the work of the ministry. Consider this, every book in the New Testament is written to churches, not just Elders. Elder/ Pastor Jon Szabo Serving as an Elder, it is Pastor Jon's responsibility to Oversee the spiritual health of FBC Fortuna. He is responsible for teaching and overseeing pastoral care of the church. Deacon of Finances & Benevolence Vince Braigia To allow the Elders to remain focused on the ministry of the word and prayer, Vince serves (deacons) by helping to manage the finances of FBC Fortuna. Deacon of Facilities Luke Piehl To allow the Elder's to remain focused on the ministry of the word and prayer, Luke serves by helping to manage the facilities. If you would like to assist in caring for the building (cleaning, upkeep, repairs, gardening), please contact Luke.
- 3: Discipleship | FBC Fortuna
Preaching The primary way every believer is discipled is though the weekly expository preaching of the Bible. Preaching is the most common means of grace by which God saves sinners and sanctifies saints. This is why discipleship will be greatly impacted by the amount of time spent under the faithful preaching of the word of God. Sermons Pastoral Discipleship Meetings It is the goal of the Elders to meet with each household at least once a year to check on the spiritual growth of each member. These meetings are meant to strengthen the faith of each member and to help provide direction for further growth. Each meeting is usually scheduled according to household family units on an annual basis. The Membership Interview is your first Pastoral Discipleship Meeting. These meetings usually consist of four questions: What is the gospel? How have you seen the gospel transform your home in the last year? What recent sermons have been most helpful? What questions do you have for the Elders (Pastors)? Prayer Meetings Prayer is a critical part of the Christian walk. Without prayer, we are trying to walk by the flesh and not by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we set aside time specifically for the purpose of praying. At various times our church body will also fast together. This includes when we are considering a new Elder or Deacon, as well as other significant seasons in our church life. The Puritans would often discover future men for ministry based on their prayers offered at prayer meetings. Small Groups Mid-Week Small Groups With members from all over Humboldt County we have established small groups to help minister to each other throughout the week. The purpose of these small groups is to encourage regular fellowship, discipleship, and one-another ministry among the members spread throughout Humboldt County. Further, it is more likely that a person will thrive and last longer in church if he or she is participating regularly in a small group. Sunday School (Adults & Kids) Our Sunday School program is designed to disciple participants in studying and obeying the Bible. We have the following opportunities. Journey through the Bible (JTTB) These classes are meant to survey the entire Bible every three years. Each class is age-appropriate and is studying the same lesson. By having all JTTB classes learn the same lesson, parents are better equipped to continue evangelizing and discipling their children at home. As mentioned previously, it is more likely that a person will thrive and last longer in church if he or she is participating regularly in a small group. Children Classes (Babies – 6th Grade) Our children’s classes are taught by teachers who love Jesus and love their students. Any adult working with a minor is required to fill out an application and pass a background check. Adults and Youth Our adults and youth can pick between the JTTB classes or the Christian Ministry Training Classes. These are also on a three-year cycle. Christian Ministry Training (CMT) At some point every believer must transition from being discipled to making disciples. The CMT modules are an excellent way to prepare for this. These 13-week modules provide a brief survey of the fundamentals of the Christian life and faith. They are meant to provide every member with basic information needed to grow and disciple others in the faith. Although everybody is encouraged to attend, participation is required for all Elers, Deacons, teachers, and ministry leaders. CMT is available for youth and adults during Sunday School. The modules are listed below. Parathou Parathou is the Greek word for the command to “entrust.” Based on 2 Timothy 2:1, Parathou has two types of men in mind. First and foremost, Parathou has churchmen in mind. These are men who desire to pour into the church; men who want to be better equipped to serve God and serve his people. Secondly, Parathou is designed for men who aspire to the office of Elder/Overseer. It must be clearly stated that participation in Parathou is not a guarantee or promise that you will become an Elder. However, it is designed to lead men in that direction. Private Worship, Family Worship. and Spiritual Disciplines Every member must be committed to taking responsibility for his own spiritual growth. This is learned from others but then practiced in private. Therefore, each member should look to find ways to have regular time of Private Worship. This includes time in the word (Read), time praying (Pray), and even time of singing (Sing). These three elements are also useful to incorporate into times of Family Worship. Each household should set aside daily or weekly time to worship together (read, sing, pray). Spiritual disciplines are to be learned and practiced throughout our entire Christian walk. Reading the Bible daily is the most basic spiritual discipline, but there are many others to learn as well. The Corporate Worship, Pastoral Discipleship Meetings, Prayer, mid-week small groups, and the CMT Classes will help every member learn how to grow in their walk with Christ. By spending time in private worship, family worship, and corporate worship, as well as practicing Spiritual disciplines, we ensure that our private life and our public life both reflect Christlikeness. Parent Training Classes These bi-monthly classes are designed to equip and encourage parents who take seriously their responsibility to educate their children. Any and all parents are encouraged to participate (parents of homeschoolers, private schoolers, public schoolers, and future schoolers).




