My Book of the Month for January is How We Learn to Be Brave by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde. Bishop Budde is the ninth bishop of the Episcopal Church of Washington D.C and served as Interim Dean of the Washington National Cathedral from 2016-2017. In her book, the Rite, Rev. Budde writes a beautifully inspiring reflection on faith, courage, and divine purpose. In this heartfelt work, Bishop Budde invites readers to embrace the journey of becoming who God calls them to be, encouraging a courageous faith rooted in trust and love. Throughout her book, Bishop Budde reflects on her own experiences regarding faith, loss, and personal transformations. Bishop Budde shows the reader that a life of bravery isn't about fearlessness but about embracing scary moments with faith and an open heart. It's a call to lean into vulnerability and take bold steps in our spiritual and everyday lives, knowing that God walks alongside us every moment.

One of the most compelling aspects of Budde’s writing is her emphasis on courage as an active choice. She asserts that bravery isn’t a trait reserved for the extraordinary few but a muscle we all can develop through our daily decisions. She challenges us to step out of our comfort zones, show up as our most authentic selves, and trust that our journey is part of a greater divine plan. By leaning into our faith, we find the courage to pursue what God has in store for us, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. It’s a wonderfully affirming message for anyone unsure or hesitant about stepping into their calling.

Bishop Budde’s warmth and wisdom are palpable throughout the book, making it an enjoyable and enriching read. Her approach is down-to-earth and spiritually uplifting, creating a space for readers to reflect deeply while feeling encouraged and empowered. How We Learn to Be Brave is not just about courage in the traditional sense; it’s about embracing God’s vision for our lives with joy, faith, and authenticity. It's a celebration of the bravery that comes from living with purpose, and a reminder that, by trusting in God's love and guidance, we can truly become the people we are meant to be.

Pastoral Letter

“Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” [Jesus] said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

-Matthew 22:36-40 NRSV

Dear Beloved in Christ,

I, like many, often struggle to love everyone, even more so those I would loosely associate as my “enemies.” I admit that I do not always succeed in embodying Christ, especially when times are uncertain and supplies seem scarce. I would instead like to stew in my own “right-ness,” and hide behind the wall I’ve made for myself rather than brewing in God’s “righteousness.” Despite my constant failure, God’s spirit challenges me every moment to live my life and my faith in God’s sacrificial and abundant love.

In each Gospel, Jesus challenges us with a radical concept: to love God and our neighbors as ourselves. He teaches that true discipleship isn’t about seeking revenge or holding grudges but about embodying grace, kindness, and forgiveness. In a world that often tells us to fight back or seek justice in our own way, Jesus calls us to follow a different path—one of self-sacrifice and trust. “If you love those who love you, what reward do you have?” Jesus asks (Matt 5:46). The call to love is not easy, but it leads us toward the heart of the Kingdom of God.

I often think of the story Stone Soup, where a stranger passes through a mistrusting and stingy town. She is constantly rejected by the hungry and mistrusting townspeople, who don’t have enough to share or, if they do, are unwilling. But rather than giving up, the traveler has an idea. She walks into the town center and shouts, “Come and try my delicious stone soup!” “What is stone soup?” The curious townspeople asked. With a smile, the traveler explains, “It’s the most amazing soup ever! It will solve all your problems. You only need a pot, water, and a big stone.” The people were skeptical but intrigued by this.

As the traveler begins preparing the soup, she takes moments to taste the magic soup and, after every taste, says, “This is delicious, but it needs something more to be perfect.” At each moment, with the utterance of this phrase, the curious townspeople would start to pitch in, beginning to contribute what they have—potatoes, carrots, corn, and even spices. Each addition makes the soup richer, more nourishing, and more flavorful. Soon, the entire town, friends and enemies alike, gather around, watching and tasting. Together, they have created something far greater than any one person could have done alone.

The Stone Soup story reminds me that love works much the same way. When we come together, each offering what we have, even when we think we have little to give, we can create something beautiful and life-giving. The townspeople started with nothing but a stone, but by self-sacrifice and trusting in their neighbor, they were able to feed everyone and bring about a moment of reconciliation. Jesus calls us to love one another in the same way and watch God’s love transform us and the world around us.

Let’s live out the radical love Jesus models as we walk in faith. Just as the townspeople came together to create something out of nothing, let’s look for opportunities to offer kindness, grace, and forgiveness, especially to those who may seem difficult to love. In doing so, we become guests at the table of God's love and find ourselves transformed. May we embrace the opportunity to give rather than retaliate, to forgive rather than condemn, and in doing so, find a deeper and more fulfilling life in Christ.

Peace and Love,

Rev. Tory Shane Dillard (March 2025)

YOUTH RETREAT AT BEERSHEBA SPRINGS

UNITED METHODIST ASSEMBLY

6TH—12TH GRADE

JUNE 13TH—15TH, 2025

PLEASE SIGN UP WITH MS. TRACY

Mission Statement planning meeting on Tuesday, March 25th, from 5:30—6:30 pm. Whoever wants to be part of this is welcome to come.

Mark Your Calendars: On April 13th, Palm Sunday, we will have one service at 10:30 am. This is also Confirmation Sunday, and we will honor seven Children/Youth who have gone through the Confirmation classes. Following the 10:30 service, we will have a church-wide picture made, outside, if weather permits (we encourage everyone from both services to make a special effort to be here that day). We will also have a Fellowship meal in the CLC, followed by an egg hunt for the children.

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, March 18th, 2025

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, March 20th, 2025

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

We are in need of already stuffed Easter eggs for Palm Sunday. You may want to look at Oriental Trading as they have eggs that are already stuffed. Thank you all!

...The Mary Martha circle will meet on Tuesday, March 18th, at 10:00 am. In the CLC-Parlor. Judith Whaley will have the program for March.

...The Lydia Circle will meet on March 18th at 1 pm., in the CLC-Parlor. We will review Chapter 2 in our Study guide. Please bring your pledge to help support the ministries of Women in Faith.

Acolytes for Sunday, March 16th, 2025

Hunter Ann Phelps & Maria McMahan

Ushers for Sunday, March 16th, 2025

(10:30 am. Service)

John Benson

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

The Family of Dola Holt Jimmie Lou Nichols (Amy Henson’s mother)

Wayne Clayton Brenda Benson

Marilyn McAfee Jerry Gibbs Betsy Phelps & Family

Tonya McClenic Darryl Kerr Beth Duncan

Marty Crews Bob Brown Beverly Richardson

Susie De Antonio Cheri Harris Patricia Chapman

Jackson Murtha Jeff Weeks Michael Assad

Susan Beuerlein Joan Emerson Andrew Holcomb

Meredith McCoy McCraw Carroll & Cathy Curry Danny Carter

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Hazel Perry Roy Harlan Ed Bryant

Warren & Barbara Webster Roy Bradley

Larry Bailey Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Jennifer Robertson Gordon Lewis

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

Newsletter for week of Feb. 24th, 2025
Did You Know…

(February 2025)

Did you know that Liturgy plays a significant role in the life of the United Methodist Church? Just like many Christian traditions, liturgy provides a structured way to commemorate and engage with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The liturgical calendar, beginning with Advent and concluding with Pentecost, connects believers to sacred events through cycles of worship, prayer, and reflection. These observances, rooted in ancient Christian traditions, offer opportunities for spiritual growth and more profound encounters with God’s grace.

The word "liturgy" comes from the Greek term leitourgia, meaning "public worship" or "service." Although the English term arose during the Reformation, the practice dates back to the early Christian era, when believers gathered weekly on Sundays to partake in communal worship, communion, and teachings. Over time, the church formalized these practices, establishing seasons like Lent, Advent, and Easter, emphasizing key aspects of Christ’s life.

Early Christians adapted Jewish traditions, such as the Sabbath, by shifting the holy day to Sunday. By the 4th century, the church had developed a full liturgical calendar that included fasting periods before significant feasts, such as Lent (40 days of penance before Easter). These seasons are often marked by distinctive colors like purple, red, white, and green, helping the faithful prepare spiritually for significant events, including Christ’s birth (Christmas) and resurrection (Easter).

The liturgical year also includes celebrations like Epiphany, which commemorates Christ’s revelation to the Gentiles, and Pentecost, which marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. These seasons not only highlight pivotal moments in Christian history but also provide a framework for believers to reflect on their faith and grow spiritually. Over centuries, the calendar became an essential part of the church's rhythm, with each season encouraging devotion and penitence.

Historically, many denominations like Methodism have distanced themselves from traditional liturgical observances. Influenced by figures like John Wesley, early Methodists stripped down many of the church's seasonal celebrations, focusing instead on Sunday worship. However, in recent decades, there has been a renewed interest in embracing liturgy. Younger generations, in particular, seek meaning in these ancient practices, recognizing their ability to deepen spiritual life and strengthen connections with the broader Christian community.

Wednesday Night Supper—(March 5th)

(Adults $10 Children/Youth-$5)

Tacos (Beef or Chicken)

Rice Beans Chips with Salsa or Cheese Dip

Ice Cream Sundaes

Workers: Wesley class (Layde Ezell, Gracie Henson, Judith Whaley, Nancy Moore, Mary Ann Clayton, Cornelia Wood)

...The UWF Unit meeting has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 9, at 2:00 pm., in the Rose Chapel. All UWF officers are asked to attend. All women of the church are cordially invited to attend this meeting. Our speaker will be Rachel Enriquez, Case Manager from the Center of Hope. An offering will be taken for the Center of Hope. We hope to see you there!

...We will host the first Noon Lenten service on Ash Wednesday, March 5th. A sandwich lunch will follow the service. Everyone is invited to attend.

YOUTH RETREAT AT BEERSHEBA SPRINGS

UNITED METHODIST ASSEMBLY

6TH—12TH GRADE

JUNE 13TH—15TH, 2025

PLEASE SIGN UP WITH MS. TRACY

...Third grade bibles will be presented at the 10:30 am., worship on Sunday, March 9th. Please let Mrs. Tracy or the church office know if your child is in 3rd grade.

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

Barbara Brewer—03/01

Carley Henson—03/03

Lawson Slater—03/05

Jeanie Godbey—03/06

Polly Marsh—03/06

Carol James—03/09

Theresa Puckett—03/10

Brenda Oliver—03/11

Sloane Story—03/14

Joe Townsend—03/15

Wyatt Boston—03/15

Brenda Benson—03/17

Patrick Trousdale—03/19

John Benson—03/20

Anita Story—03/22

Shelley Boston—03/24

Bill Loete—03/25

John Benson Phelps—03/26

Leslie Hunt—03/27

McKenzie Slater—March 28

Adam Clayton—03/29

We are in need of already stuffed Easter eggs for Palm Sunday. You may want to look at Oriental Trading as they have eggs that are already stuffed. Thank you all!

...Beginning in March, the church plans to go to a more digital format. If you have an email, we will use that to send you the church newsletter. Now, if you have been getting a paper copy, we will continue to send that to you, however, if you are willing to have the newsletter sent to your email, we would appreciate being able to do so. Thank you for your cooperation with this.

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, March 6th, 2025

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Ushers for Sunday, March 2nd, 2025

(10:30 am. Service)

Jerry Gibbs

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

...The Prayer Shawl ministry will be on Tuesday, March 4th, at 9:00 a.m. Anyone who would like is invited to join the group for knitting, crocheting and fellowship.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Chris Webb Brenda Benson Darrell Kerr

Marilyn McAfee Jerry Gibbs Betsy Phelps & Family

Josh Bolin The family of Sarah Bowden Threet

Tonya McClenic Cheri Harris Beth Duncan

Marty Crews Bob Brown Beverly Richardson

Susie De Antonio Danny Carter Patricia Chapman

Jackson Murtha Jeff Weeks Michael Assad

Susan Beuerlein Joan Emerson Andrew Holcomb

Meredith McCoy McCraw Carroll & Cathy Curry

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Dola Holt

Hazel Perry Roy Harlan Ed Bryant

Warren & Barbara Webster Roy Bradley

Larry Bailey Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Jennifer Robertson Gordon Lewis

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

February 17, 2025

This month’s Theologian is Saint Valentine, who is often remembered as the patron saint of lovers, but his life and actions go beyond romantic associations. During the Roman Empire, Valentine lived in a period when oppressive laws sought to control personal freedom and the expression of love. The emperor, Claudius II, had enacted a law prohibiting young couples from marrying, believing that single men would make better soldiers. As a Bishop of Rome, Valentine saw the injustice and inhumanity in such laws and defied them, secretly performing marriages for young couples. His actions demonstrated a profound commitment to humanity and stood against the Empire’s interference in matters of the heart.

Valentine's call to justice was rooted in his belief that love was a sacred and fundamental human right that the laws of Government should not deny. By officiating weddings for young lovers, he not only opposed the emperor’s decree but also risked his safety to support the union of individuals based on love. This defiance reflected his understanding of God’s law, prioritizing compassion and the dignity of human relationships over the authority of oppressive rulers. His refusal to comply with Claudius's unjust law showed his courage and willingness to act in the name of God’s vision of love, even at a significant personal cost.

Eventually, Valentine’s resistance led to his arrest and execution, but his legacy endures as a symbol of the enduring power of love and justice in the face of oppression. His story serves as a reminder that true love is not just an emotion but a force that calls for justice, compassion, and the defense of human rights. Saint Valentine's life encourages individuals to resist unjust systems and stand up for what is morally right, even when faced with harsh consequences. His actions continue to inspire people to seek justice in their own lives, championing love and equality above all. As United Methodists, we are called to focus on the call of God’s eternal love above all things. United Methodists must follow John Wesley's “Three General Rules (To Do Good, To Do No Harm, and To Stay in Love with God) to live a more Christ-like life. May we follow Saint Valentine’s example and strive for love even at great personal cost to ourselves.

Wednesday Night Supper

(February 26th, 2025)

(Adults $10 Children/Youth-$5)

Chicken Alfredo Salad Garlic Bread

Lemon Icebox pie

Workers: Volunteer II group (Randy & Nancy Brewer, Beverly Duke, Linda Ledbetter, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs)

YOUTH RETREAT AT BEERSHEBA SPRINGS

UNITED METHODIST ASSEMBLY

6TH—12TH GRADE

JUNE 13TH—15TH, 2025

PLEASE SIGN UP WITH MS. TRACY

...Third grade bibles will be presented at the 10:30 am., worship on Sunday, March 9th. Please let Mrs. Tracy or the church office know if your child is in 3rd grade.

MARCH BIRTHDAYS

Barbara Brewer—03/01

Carley Henson—03/03

Lawson Slater—03/05

Jeanie Godbey—03/06

Polly Marsh—03/06

Judy Benson—03/07

Carol James—03/09

Theresa Puckett—03/10

Brenda Oliver—03/11

Joe Townsend—03/15

Wyatt Boston—03/15

Brenda Benson—03/17

Patrick Trousdale—03/19

John Benson—03/20

Anita Story—03/22

Shelley Boston—03/24

Bill Loete—03/25

John Benson Phelps—03/26

Leslie Hunt—03/27

McKenzie Slater—March 28

Adam Clayton—03/29

We are in need of already stuffed Easter eggs for Palm Sunday. You may want to look at Oriental Trading as they have eggs that are already stuffed. Thank you all!

...Beginning in March, the church plans to go to a more digital format. If you have an email, we will use that to send you the church newsletter. Now, if you have been getting a paper copy, we will continue to send that to you, however, if you are willing to have the newsletter sent to your email, we would appreciate being able to do so. Thank you for your cooperation with this.

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday,Feb. 25th, 2025

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, February 27th, 2025

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

Liam Bradley & TBA

Ushers for Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

(10:30 am. Service)

Jerry Gibbs

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

John Cathey & Family

John Johnstone Jerry Gibbs The Family of Daniel Clifton

Brenda Benson Gracie Henson Josh Bolin

Betsy Phelps & Family Chris Harper Elizabeth Harper

Tonya McClenic Cheri Harris Beth Duncan

Marty Crews Bob Brown Beverly Richardson

Susie De Antonio Danny Carter Patricia Chapman

Jackson Murtha Jeff Weeks Michael Assad

Susan Beuerlein Joan Emerson Andrew Holcomb

Meredith McCoy McCraw Carroll & Cathy Curry

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Dola Holt

Hazel Perry Roy Harlan Ed Bryant

Warren & Barbara Webster Jerry Gibbs Roy Bradley

Larry Bailey Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Jennifer Robertson Gordon Lewis

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua