Newsletter

Newsletter for week of Apr. 22nd, 2024

The Bicentennial Committee has already completed several projects as we begin our celebration. Thanks to Cissy Holt for designing the beautiful napkins that were used at our pot luck dinner this past Sunday. Cissy also was responsible for designing and installing our impressive banners that are hanging in the Sanctuary. Thanks to Clint Evers for hanging our 10’x10’ welcome sign that hangs above the double doors leading into our church office. Several committee members provided their collaborative input in the sign’s final design. Jane Jennings and Nancy Brewer are working with volunteers in writing a series of historical articles to be released to our local newspapers in the coming weeks. Thanks to Gracie Henson for designing our beautiful Bicentennial Christmas ornaments! Our theme for our celebration is “Looking Back and Moving Forward! Sharing 200 years of God’s Eternal Grace.” Cissy Holt also prepared stickers for our family as reminders that our historic celebration is on-going, and our success is dependent on a concerted effort requiring maximum participation from our entire family. Our opportunity to showcase our church only happens every 200 years. Let us give this our very best effort. Thanks! More surprises are planned for the near future. Stay tuned!

Wednesday Night Supper Vacation Bible School

(May 1st, 2024)

Adults $10 VBS Volunteers, Children & Youth eat free

Hamburgers/Hotdogs

Chips Cookies

Workers: Volunteer I: Bruce & Barbara Edwards; Bill & Sharon Loete; Craig and Mary Meier

The Children/Youth ministries will be having a Pancake breakfast fund raiser on Mother’s Day in the Christian Life Center. The time will be from 9—10 a.m. Please come out and support the Children and Youth and their fund raiser. Thank you in advance for your support!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

VBS is scheduled for the first

4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st

May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

MAY BIRTHDAYS

Mandy Caruso May 1st

Connor Jones May 2nd

Tim Porter May 5th

Jake Shultz May 6th

Kaycee McMahan May 6th

Beth Benson May 6th

Carol Beasley May 7th

Tylie Beecham May 10th

Bryce McMahan May 11th

Randy Brewer May 11th

Chris Phelps May 11th

Larry Thigpen May 18th

Sarah Catherine Trousdale May 19th

Adam Slater May 23rd

Alexa Slater May 26th

Dawn Bradley May 27th

Maria McMahan May 31st

Third grade Bibles will be presented on Sunday, May 19th, at the 10:30 am. Service. Please let Mrs. Tracy know if you have a third grader.

Dear Mary Martha Circle of the United Women in Faith,

Thank you so much for your faithful support of the students of E. O. Coffman Middle School. Your generous support of hygiene supplies are so very appreciated and will be well used by our students. Never have I asked for help and you haven’t answered the call. Thank you again for being part of the village for these students.

In Christ, Beth Lerner

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Jerry Dauer Jerry Godsey Gordon Lewis

Jessica Wood Jim Wood Steve Herring Family

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan Sue Biven

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Brandon White

Brett Holt Patricia Chapman

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Susie De Antonio

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot Marty Crews

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Bob Brown

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susan Beuerlein

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson Mark Brewer

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, April 28th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, May 2nd

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Ushers for Sunday April 28, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

Clint Evers

April 15th, 2024

Be a witness for Jesus Christ

This past Sunday Brother Kent had an excellent message about the importance of “witness”. In Acts 1-8: Jesus implored his disciples to be witnesses in Judea and throughout the Earth. When a family member witnesses to their faith, everyone grows in their faith as they relate the message to their personal Faith Journey. We all profit when one shares the good news of Jesus Christ. One form of witnessing is testimonials. I am in the process of asking family members to consider making about a three minute testimony at the worship services between this Sunday and August 4th, our final day of celebration. I am aware that this may not be in everyone’s comfort zone. That’s okay. We are a diverse family. If this is not your thing, consider inviting a friend, family member or former member to be our guest at the pot luck dinner on Sunday. Talk informally to a coworker about the exciting mission at First Church. Invite and support children who would love to be included in our May VBS activities. Visit an elderly person who would love hearing “first hand” about our 200 years of ministry in Lawrenceburg, and the surrounding areas. Do a favor for disabled people. Buy their groceries, mow their grass, cook a meal, wash their clothes, let them know they are important and loved. We all can be witnesses for Jesus Christ. Our celebration offers us a great opportunity to be the best examples we can be. Let us be the light of Jesus in our community! Stay tuned for more ideas…

The Adventures of the Church Mouse

By Schnozz

Recently there has been lots of chatter about the Lawrenceburg Community Theatre production entitled “Peter Pan Jr.” According to everything I have heard discussed, this play featuring child actors exclusively was a smashing success! Performed in front of packed audiences at the Old Crockett Theatre, the kids literally brought the large audience to their feet with standing ovations for each performance. Our church family was very well represented because five of the star performers were our very own. Clara Lerner, Georgianna Ricaurte, Laia Hughes, Grace Duncan, and Luci Long gave spectacular performances! These beautiful young ladies performed with outstanding grace and poise! Thank you girls! We have bragging rights, and you have put a little swagger in each of our steps. We are so very proud of you for a magnificent job well done!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

Wednesday Night Supper

(April 24th , 2024)

Chicken Alfredo

Salad Garlic bread

Chocolate cake w/choc. icing

Workers: Jerry Thomas (Ken & Nancy Nelson, Dan & Jane Jennings, Mike & Chandra Nelms, Danny & Theresa Puckett; Ann & Bill Akers)

...Thank you to the volunteers who came out and helped last Friday during our yard clean-up day. Your help was very much appreciated!

The SPRC committee will meet on Tuesday, April 23rd, at 5:30 pm. Members of the SPRC committee are Chairperson: Dawn Bradley, Hallie Hoffmeyer, Steve Wright, Judith Whaley, Brian Shultz, Jansen Holt, Tim Spencer, Julie Slater, Ken Nelson, and Lay-Leader, Beth Lerner.

REMINDER: The church Christmas ornaments that were designed to celebrate the 200th anniversary of First UMC will be available at this Sunday’s celebration and also will be available at the celebration scheduled on Sunday, August 4th.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Jerry Dauer Jerry Godsey Gordon Lewis

Jessica Wood Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan Sue Biven

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Brandon White

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Patricia Chapman

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Susie De Antonio

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot Marty Crews

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Bob Brown

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susan Beuerlein

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, April 23rd

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, April 25th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, April 21st, 2024

Jake Shultz & Wyatt Cisco

Ushers for Sunday April , 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Adam Slater

Dwain Bradley

April 8, 2024

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK

As we move into our 200th Anniversary year, Sid James, Chairperson of our Celebration Committee, has a series of events planned throughout the year. The first event is on Sunday, April 21st—we will have one worship service at 10:30 am., followed by a potluck lunch in the Christian Life Center. Representing the Bishop, will be our District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Vona Wilson, who will bring the morning message.

We are giving our choir the morning off, to worship with their families. Special music is provided by two of Rev. Bailey’s former youth members from previous churches. Will Hensley and Adam Wheatly. Will and Adam are professional musicians and singers in Nashville. Will is a studio engineer, singer, who plays multiple instruments, and writes music. Will will be singing a song he wrote for Brett Eldredge, entitled “Holy Water.” Adam will open the service with a solo of “My Hope is Built”, his own arrangement. Both Adam and Will are closing the service with a duet of “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen. Will said they may bring other surprise musicians. Join us for great worship and food as we begin our 200th Anniversary Celebration.

Gearing Up For 200 years Of Ministry

Did you know that First Church is one of the oldest established churches in Lawrence County? In fact, it is indeed the oldest established church in Lawrenceburg that has continued to serve Jesus Christ as a Methodist Church from its very beginning. Sunday, April 21, at 10:30 a.m. will be our official kick off day for celebration! Brother Kent has planned a special worship service featuring our District Superintendent, Vona Wilson, as our speaker, and special music will be punctuated throughout the service. Following the worship service we will continue celebrating with a pot luck meal in the CLC. When we gather for our meal, the preordered souvenir Christmas ornaments will be available for $12.

For the next few weeks leading up to our second celebration on August 4th, volunteers are needed to offer brief testimonials of personal witness of God’s grace (around 3 minutes) during the worship service. Psalms 40 says, “I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly, I do not seal my lips, I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and saving help…” Examples of topics are: Why I am a Christian, How or why I chose First Church to be my family, What I love about my church family, Important events of my life that have solidified my faith, Accounts of what God is doing in my life. How my faith in Jesus Christ has changed my life.

Begin planning for your participation in each of the special dates we have planned. Invite friends and former members to join us in our unique celebration of our service to Jesus Christ!

The Adventures of the Church Mouse

By Schnozz

There is has been a whirlwind of activity on our church campus recently. The money counters show up every Monday morning. They include Larry Thigpen, Jane Jennings, Gracie Henson, Sharon and Bill Loete, Maggie Spencer and Beverly Duke. These dedicated workers rotate shifts and share the important work of counting the Sunday offering. Sandy Lisnak comes every week keeping track of the credits and debits for all the church business. She generates timely reports for the church finance committee. Terri Gobble spends time daily writing checks to pay the current bills. Dr. John Beasley has been chairman of the finance committee on and off for forever and a day overseeing the annual budget. Each person plays an important role making certain that the funds collected by our church family are properly accounted.

On Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 – 11:00 our Loaves and Fishes pantry is in operation. These volunteers include Linda Newton, Mary Meier, Jerry and Martha Jo Gibbs, and Bruce and Barbara Edwards. In addition to serving the public, purchasing food and sundries, and stocking the shelves is a regular time consuming necessity.

Our secretary, Terri Gobble, is always busy directing the daily traffic of members who drop in throughout the day. She prepares the News Letter, activates the Phone Tree, and prepares the programs for the worship services. This work is done with constant interruption of answering the telephone and greeting door knockers who are seeking help.

Tracy Evers is rarely found sitting at her office desk. She is in constant motion as she prepares surprises and Bible lessons for her ever-expanding program for our children and youth. If you have a chance in the next few days, peek into our Fellowship Hall to view the set she is preparing for Vacation Bible School.

I see Beverly Duke every week preparing the altars for our Worship Services. She and Mary Ann Clayton also prepare for our Communion Services. Beverly also sits in for Terri on occasions when Terri is away from work.

And wow! Have you noticed our beautiful church lawn? Jon Brewer and his Legacy Lawn team continue to improve the tall fescue grass. The tall grass makes an excellent cover for me to sneak around and sniff out the news.

I am impressed at how well our church family works together. Our ever increasing pool of volunteers assemble to insure our church functions properly to aid in our worship to God and to serve our community. Many hands make quick work! Stay tuned. More news is on the way! Until next time…

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

Wednesday Night Supper

(April 17th , 2024)

Pizza Night Fruit

Ice Cream Sundaes with cookie

Workers: Friends & Fellowship

Graduating High School Seniors may pick up a scholarship application for the Jackson-McClanahan, UMW-WIF, and May Jones scholarships in the church office. Please fill out and return by Friday, April 19th.

Ken Nelson, and Lay-Leader, Beth Lerner.

The Lydia Circle will meet on Wednesday, April 17th at 1 pm., in the CLC-Parlor. We will discuss Chapter 11 in our study books.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Jerry Godsey Gordon Lewis

Jessica Wood Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan Sue Biven

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Brandon White

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Patricia Chapman

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Susie De Antonio

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot Marty Crews

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Bob Brown

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susan Beuerlein

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, April 16th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, April 18th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, April 14th, 2024

Matthew Meadors & Victoria Meadors

Ushers for Sunday April 14, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

Clint Evers

April 1, 2024

Adventures of the Church Mouse, By Schnozz

(Psalm Sunday Worship)

My goodness! What a supercharged worship weekend! It all began with John Cathey cleaning the sanctuary, making sure that everything was perfect for Sunday’s large gathering. He was cleaning and mopping up a storm. Tracy Evers was dashing in and out so fast I couldn’t keep up. Terri Gobble was also in a hard gallop preparing for Sunday’s service. Pastor Kent was pouring over his sermon with added fervor. I noticed Beverly Duke skillfully preparing the church marque. She maneuvered the letters on the sign like an expert magician making full use of the limited space available. Stacy Odneal Shultz donated a car load of eggs to be used in the giant egg hunt. Janson Holt and Chris Fann hung the banners for the special worship service. As I gazed upon our enormous church campus I witnessed detailed preparation for the Palm Sunday Worship Service! When Sunday morning arrived the parking lot began to fill with children and adults who wanted to be part of the special worship service. Then it began! 43 children began the service with the annual Palm Sunday Parade. It broke last year’s record of 42 children! The ushers and acolytes were in place. Using his hands and feet, Jerry Tipper was skillfully operating the organ. Leslie Hunt was tickling the keys on the grand piano. The Chancel Choir was singing special music. The Wesley Chimes were ringing in the service with special bell music. David Allen was playing chimes, and directing the choir as well as the hymns for the congregation. Dr. John Beasley was anchored at the sound board adjusting the appropriate sound for the sanctuary as well as the radio station. Lay leader, Beth Lerner, opened the service with her usual grace and poise making everyone comfortable and welcomed. While all of this was happening in the sanctuary, the dining room organizers were hard at it preparing the tables, seating, decorations, arranging the food, and serving. This core group of volunteers had been working forever and a day making certain that large groups of people can be served in record time, and then they hung around to clean up after the enormous crowd. The children’s happy shouts of laughter and glee rose to a crescendo as they were invited to commence the egg hunt! Then it dawned on me. It takes an entire church family to hold a spectacular worship event like this. Everyone present had a job as they participated in a unified statement of support indicating what happens here is of utmost importance! The entire congregation raised their collective voices in song and in prayer. As Brother Kent said in his sermon, “The holy spirit blows where it will.” We all felt the presence of the Lord among us today. The Son of God came down to be among us. Yep. That’s what happens when everyone works in unison to serve our Lord, and our mighty God always keeps his promises! My church family made this mouse really proud to be a part of something spectacular. With God’s help, we can do anything! Thanks, everyone! Until next time…

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

Wednesday Night Supper

(April 10th , 2024)

Pancakes

Bacon/sausage Hashbrown casserole

Coffee cake (chocolate chip or orange cranberry)

Workers: Upper Room (John & Carol Beasley, John & Kathy Johnstone, Chris & Kris Fann;

Dwain Bradley, Beth Dube, Brian Winters)

...The Mary Martha Circle will meet on Monday, April 8th, at 5:30 pm., in the Wesley classroom. Gracie Henson has the program.

YARD WORK DAY

In preparation for our 200 year celebration we have scheduled a yard work day for Wednesday, April 10th, at 8:30 am. Please come and bring yard tools. Thank you in advance

MANY THANKS to our Children and Youth ministries, who collected non-food items for the Loaves & Fishes Food pantry during the season of Lent as a challenge. You have provided the pantry with much needed items that will be put to good use! Thank you all again for your generous kindness.

...The UMW Executive Committee will meet on Tuesday, April 9th, at 3:30 pm.

PACKING BACKPACKS AND INGRAM SOWELL ELEMENTARY

On Wednesday, April 10th, Volunteers will meet to pack backpacks at Ingram Sowell Elementary, at 10 am. We need lots of volunteers as there will be four pallets to unload and pack. This will cover through the end of the school year All volunteers are welcome and appreciated!

Dear Church Family:

Once again, the Hurst/Holt family is so grateful for love and prayers shared with us during the myriad of surgeries and follow-ups we have encountered the last few months. The texts, cards, food, books, and shared readings are deeply appreciate ed as we continue to navigate new “normal” and recoveries. What a blessing you have been to us. God bless you all.

Cissy & Jansen Holt and Lanny & Shelby Hurst

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

The Family of Reva Lee Jerry Godsey

Jessica Wood Gordon Lewis Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan Sue Biven

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Brandon White

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Patricia Chapman

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Susie De Antonio

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot Marty Crews

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Bob Brown

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susan Beuerlein

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, April 9th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Thursday, April 11th

Sharon Loete, Bruce Barbara Edwards

Acolytes for Sunday, April 7th, 2024

Max & Luci Winters

Adult Helper: Dawn Bradley

Ushers for Sunday April 7, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Dwain Bradley

Adam Slater

March 25, 2024

Adventures of the Church Mouse, By Schnozz

This past week as I was scurrying around in the church library I came across an interesting journal entry from 1917. It stated, “While Revered M.P. Woods was pastor, Lawrenceburg Station set a record. On four consecutive Wednesday nights three hundred forty-six persons attended prayer meeting. This was the largest attendance in the Tennessee Conference.” (p. 21, History of FUMC by Viola Carpenter) Back in the day, I remember Grandpa Mouse talking about the membership at First Church being more than 600 members. That was when anybody who wanted to be somebody wanted to be part of this amazing church family. Not only was First Church the center of awesome worship to Jesus Christ, it was also the best social gathering in the county. That little snippet of history got me to thinking. Lawrenceburg has grown exponentially during the following 107 years. Yet during that same period of time, church membership has drastically decreased. Why? We could argue that it was before radio and television, organized sports, March Madness, Monday Night Football, upward mobility, and a thousand other ways a person can spend their time. Today more and more people identify themselves as “Christian” but are not affiliated with a church. Hmmm. That tells me that more folks are not reading their Bible. Jesus came among us to establish his church. He expects his followers to make his church the center of their lives. Until next time...

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

Wednesday Night Supper

(April 3rd, 2024)

Hamburger steak Potato wedges

Baked beans Rolls

Brownies w/ice cream

Workers: Wesley class (Brenda Benson, Barbara Brewer, Layde Ezell, Gracie Henson, Judith Whaley, Nancy Moore, Mary Ann Clayton)

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Reva Lee Jerry Godsey

Jessica Wood Gordon Lewis Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan Sue Biven

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Brandon White

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Patricia Chapman

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Susie De Antonio

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot Marty Crews

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Bob Brown

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susan Beuerlein

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson Bro. Kent

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, April 2nd

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, April 4th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, March 31, 2024

Kaycee McMahan

Bryce McMahan

Ushers for Sunday March 31st, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Mike Hardy, Ken Nelson,

Wayne Richardson

March 18, 2024

Adventures of the Church Mouse, By Schnozz

Reporting as a church mouse can be dangerous work. Since many members of our church family would be utterly terrified at my presence I have to sneak around and work primarily behind the scenes. Of course this gives me a vantage point of seeing and hearing what most of you will never experience. I have recently been investigating Keri McMahan and Dawn Bradley who serve as the Acolyte Mothers. My goodness! They surely have a rowdy bunch on her hands! That’s okay folks. Keri and Dawn are capable and seasoned leaders who have served many years assisting our children. The children listened very carefully as they explained the importance of the Acolyte reverently attending their duties during the worship service. They further explained, “As Jesus told his disciples that he was the light of the world, the Acolytes bring his light into the worship service. At the conclusion of the service, the Acolytes carry the light outside so that everyone in the community can experience the magnificent light of Jesus Christ!” They further discussed the importance of Acolytes assisting during the Communion Service. Our children recently assisting are: Alexa Slater, Sammy Evers, Nina and Jake Shultz, Luci Long, Mason, Bryce, Caycee, and Maria McMahan, Liam Bradley, Max and Lucy Winters, Emma Grace Olive, Hunter Ann Phelps, Wyatt Cisco, Landyn and Greyson Gruca, Mathew and Victoria Meadors, Sloane Story, Callie Henson, and Connor Jones. The next time you see the leaders and youth serving in our worship service, brag on them, and thank them for their service. We are very fortunate to have a great wealth of talent and eager volunteers aiding in our worship services, and they need our encouragement! Just in case I may have failed to mention someone serving, just talk about it somewhere on the church campus. There is a very good chance that I will be waiting to sniff out the rest of the story. Until next time…

On Monday morning, March 25th, the Easter cross will be installed on the church yard. If you can help, please contact Beverly. It doesn’t take long but we will need 3 or 4 men. Thank you in advance.

The Nurture Committee is looking for volunteer(s) who would like to write cards to new visitors, shut-ins, or those in our church who are sick. Cards and stamps will be provided along with addresses that would be needed. These do not have to be lengthy notes—this is to let the people know that the church loves and is thinking about the. If you are interested, please contact the church office (Terri) or Carol Beasley. This is another needed ministry in our church.

Wednesday Night Supper

(March 27, 2024)

Pulled Pork Green Beans

Mac & Cheese Baked apples

Biscuits Cupcakes

Workers: Clint Evers’s Gang

This is a picture of the ornament designed to celebrate the 200th anniversary of our church. It is a personalized ceramic ornament 3” in diameter with a gold hanging cord and a gift box. The cost will be $12. This will be a great remembrance of our celebration and make great gifts for anyone affiliated with our church! PLEASE CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE TO ORDER. We will order the bulk number by the 23rd of March. Ornaments will be available for sale at a celebration in April and again in August. Questions? - Gracie Henson 931-xxx-xxxx.

APRIL BIRTHDAYS

Mary Meier—April 1st Keri McMahan April 2nd

Jansen Holt—April 6th Sammy Evers April 9th

Taylor Coffee—April 11th Bob Wedge April 20th

Linda Ledbetter—April 21th Clara Lerner April 30th

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd). The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

DONATIONS are needed for the Church’s Blanket/Blessing Box, located in the parking lot at the back of the sanctuary. Items needed are: Winter items (Hand warmers, Toboggans, Gloves and Scarves). Also, items that are easily opened and easy to handle. Canned items with pop tops, Fruit, and Fruit and granola bars. Individual packs of crackers with peanut butter. Thank you for your help!

LENT CHALLENGE—2024

During Lent, the children and youth are going to bring one item each Sunday, for the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. Items needed are:

Dish detergent laundry detergent

toilet paper paper towels

Shampoo Conditioner

Soap

or any other toiletry items you may wish to donate.

PALM SUNDAY POTLUCK

This Sunday following the 10:30 am. Service, we will have the annual Palm Sunday potluck fellowship meal in the CLC, following by the egg hunt on the church grounds for the children. Everyone is invited and asked to bring dishes to share. Please join us for food, fellowship and fun!

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Jessica Wood Gordon Lewis Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Brandon White

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson Bro. Kent

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, March 26th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Martha 28th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, March 24, 2024

Emma Grace Olive

Maria McMahan

Ushers for Sunday March 17, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Clint Evers, Adam Slater, Adam Glogau

March 11, 2024

Adventures of the Church Mouse, By Schnozz

After arriving last week my mouse family and I have been hearing lots of comments about the Children and Youth Ministry led by Tracy Evers. Wanting to learn more about the upcoming “BE RETREAT” at Camp Cedar Crest, Junior Mouse volunteered to go undercover to see what he could sniff out. Junior easily hid in the giant tote that Miss Tracy carries with her. With the awesome help of Tracy’s assistant, Dawn Bradley, the two leaders gathered the middle school kids, and Junior watched as they piled into two vehicles. Junior reported on the following youth participating: Grace Dunkin, Adelaide and McKenna Matthews, Alexa Slater, Sammy Evers, Sloane Story, Jake Shultz, Liam Bradley, Eli Cone and Wyatt Cisco.

The theme of the “Be Retreat” was “Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus”. The kids learned about JC’s family tree and sang lots of JC praise songs. They played games, ate delicious meals, slept very little and giggled and laughed almost non-stop. It was obvious from all of the deafening chatter and smiling faces the kids knew they were experiencing something of monumental importance! They were connecting with Jesus by the most fun way possible! This middle school group has made a tremendous growth in just one year! Miss Tracy carried only two kids last year. Junior reported he also had a swell time because Miss Tracy had left goody bags to munch on and a “little Jesus” to keep him company in the bottom of her giant tote.

Enthusiasm is contagious, and these kids were exposed to the best kind possible. Thanks to members like Dawn and Tracy this church family is making a step forward in the right direction carrying the banner of Jesus Christ high for all to see!

I’m sure more exciting times are yet to commence. Until next time…

The Lydia Circle will meet on March 20th (Wednesday) in the CLC parlor at 1 pm. Please bring your pledges for 2024. We will be reviewing Chapter 10 in our study books.

Wednesday Night Supper

(March 20, 2024)

Mexican Night—Soft tacos (beef and/or chicken)

Chips with salsa Rice Beans

Chocolate cake w/chocolate icing

Workers: Volunteer II group (Randy & Nancy Brewer, Beverly Duke, Cornelia Wood, Linda Ledbetter and Jerry Gibbs)

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

The Family of Deanna Thigpen

Jessica Wood Gordon Lewis Jim Wood

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb

Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Brandon White

Meredith McCoy McCraw Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson Bro. Kent

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, March 19th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Martha 21th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, March 17, 2024

Sammy Evers & Luci Long

Ushers for Sunday March 17, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

Dwain Bradley

February 26, 2024

The Nurture Committee will meet on Monday, March 4th, at 5:30 pm. Members of the Nurture committee are: Chairperson: Carol Beasley, Beth Lerner,

Tracy Evers, Beth Benson, Leslie Hunt, Bruce and Barbara Edwards, Jeannie Vaughn, Debbie Hardy, Keri McMahan, Tim Porter, Cissy Holt,

Dawn Bradley and Caitlin Winters.

LENT CHALLENGE—2024

During Lent, the children and youth are going to bring one item each Sunday, for the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. Items needed are:

Dish detergent laundry detergent

toilet paper paper towels

Shampoo Conditioner

Soap

or any other toiletry items you may wish to donate.

Wednesday Night Supper

(March 6th, 2024)

Ham Green beans

Mashed potatoes with gravy rolls

Peach cobbler with ice cream

Workers: Volunteer I group (Bruce & Barbara Edwards, Bill & Sharon Loete, Craig & Mary Meier)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd). The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

More details coming!!!!

200TH ANNIVERSARY PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

Tuesday, March 5th

at 5:30 pm.

The Mary Martha circle will will meet on Monday, March 11th, at 5:30 pm. Bonnie Thigpen will have the program.

.The new WIF (UMW) 2024 Reading books have been processed, are on the shelves and ready to be checked out.

...We will host the Lenten service in the Rose Chapel on Wednesday, March 13th, at noon (Community Lenten service). There will be no lunch this year, instead those who attend are asked to bring (non-perishable) canned goods for God’s Storehouse. An offering to the Lawrence County Ministerial Association will be taken at the service.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Gordon Lewis

Carole Cheatwood Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb & Family

The Family of Jerry Hunt Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad Brandon White

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson Bro. Kent

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, March 5th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Martha 7th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, March 3, 2024

TBA

Ushers for Sunday March 3rd, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Ken Nelson, Wayne Richardson

Adam Glogau

March Birthdays

March 1st—Barbara March 6th—Jeanie Godbey

March 7th—Polly Marsh March 9th—Carol James

March 15th—Larry Morris March 17th—Brenda Benson

15th—Wyatt Boston March 19th—Patrick Trousdale

15th—Joe Townsend March 20th—John Benson

March 22nd—Anita Story March 24th—Shelley Boston

March 25th—Bill Loete March 26th—John Benson Phelps

March 27th—Leslie Hunt March 29th—Adam Clayton

February 19, 2024

LENT CHALLENGE—2024

During Lent, the children and youth are going to bring one item each Sunday, for the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. Items needed are:

Dish detergent

laundry detergent

toilet paper

paper towels

Shampoo

Conditioner

Soap

or any other toiletry items you may wish to donate.

Wednesday Night Supper

(February 28, 2024)

Spaghetti Salad Garlic Bread

Fruit Cookies w/ice cream

Workers: Jerry Thomas Class: Ken & Nancy Nelson, Dan & Jane Jennings, Mike & Chandra Nelms, Danny &

Theresa Puckett

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd). The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

More details coming!!!!

ATTENTION: We have several Children & Youth who would like to attend summer Church camp this year. If anyone would like to sponsor one or more of them, please contact Tracy Evers, or you may let the church office know. Thank you!

.The new WIF (UMW) Reading books have been processed, are on the shelves and ready to be checked out.

...The Lydia Circle will meet on February 28th, at 1 pm. In the Parlor. We will be reviewing Chapter 9 in our study guide.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Brandon White Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb & Family

The Family of Jerry Hunt Jerry Gibbs Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Feb. 20th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, February 22nd

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, February 25th

Alexa Slater

Lucy Winters

Ushers for Sunday February 25th, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Clint Evers, Dwain Bradley

Adam Slater

February 5th,2024

On Sunday, February 11th, at 3:00 p.m., Vona Wilson (District Superintendent) will meet with the SPRC. Members of the SPRC are: Chairperson: Dawn Bradley, Lay leay Leader: Beth Lerner, Tim Spencer, Julie Slater, Ken Nelson, Brian Shultz, Jansen Holt, Hallie Hoffmeyer, Steve Wright and Judith Whaley.

ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES—FEBRUARY 14TH

Lenten service at Coleman Memorial UMC at 12 noon.

Tracy will do Ash Wednesday with all Children & Youth, on February 14th, at 5:30 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Following that, all Children & Youth will go bowling at Kingpin Lanes.

Bro. Kent will do an Ash Wednesday service in the Rose Chapel at 6 pm.

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

Early Bird Summer Church Camp registration is open now. Scholarships are available. Please contact Tracy Evers if your child is interested in going.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd). The time will be 5:30—8:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight.

More details coming!!!!

...On Sunday, there will be a short Parsonage committee meeting following the 10:30 am. Service. Committee members are: Sid James, Ken Nelson, Adam Slater, At Large members: Cliff Philpot, Carol James, Bonnie Thigpen, Wayne Richardson, Nancy Moore, Gayle Wright, Gracie Henson and Brenda Benson.

...Beginning Monday, February 12th, we will be accepting items for our Spring Yard Sale. All proceeds go to missions—local, national, and international. The sale is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 16th and 17th, and the next weekend beginning at 7 a.m., each day.

WEST GAINES SCHOOL

COMMUNITY CENTER

FOURTH ANNUAL

SAVE THE SCHOOL BENEFIT

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 24TH, 2024

1:00 PM., $50 PER PERSON

SOCIETY AMERICAN NOSHERIE

2 PUBLIC SQUARE

LAWRENCEBURG, TN 38464

GUEST SPEAKER, JOHN NELSON

MASTER OF CEREMONIES, TOM WILSON

FOR TICKETS CALL

931-242-1954 OR 931-244-4489

The Finance Committee meets on Monday, February 19th, from 5:30—6:30 pm. to work on the 2024 budget. Members of the Finance Committee are: Chair-John Beasley, Jane Jennings, Sandy Lisnak, Adam Slater, Dawn Bradley, Beth Lerner and at large members: Mike Hardy and Scott Beasley.

Also needed: Coats and jackets for all ages to be given away at the Saturday Community meal.

LENT CHALLENGE—2024

For Family ministry—During Lent, Mrs. Tracy is handing out a 6 week take home study called “Letters from Jerusalem”. We would love for all families or anyone that would like a copy to have one. Looking forward to this year’s Lent journey.

LENT CHALLENGE—2024

During Lent, the children and youth are going to bring one item each Sunday, for the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. Items needed are:

Dish detergent

laundry detergent

toilet paper

paper towels

Shampoo

Conditioner

Soap

or any other toiletry items you may wish to donate.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Brandon White Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb & Family

Jerry Gibbs Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Beth Duncan Cissy Holt

Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Feb. 13th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, February 15th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, February 11th

Hunter Anne Phelps

Victoria Meadors

Ushers for Sunday February 11th, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Dwain Bradley

Adam Slater

Jan. 28th, 2024

UPCOMING MEETINGS

The Finance Committee meets on February 6th, at 5:30 p.m.

The Administrative Board meets on February 6th, at 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night Supper

(February 07, 2024)

Pancakes Bacon/Ham Hashbrown casserole

Coffee cake (chocolate chip or orange cranberry)

(Workers: Friends & Fellowship class

SPECIAL MISSION RECOGNITIONS—Each year UMW/UWF recognize and honor people of our church for their devotion, work and love for God and Good’s church. A special gift to the missions of the United Methodist Church has been sent in their honor. This year Linda Newton, Malea Brewer and Chase Brewer are recipients of this honor. God bless you for all you do for our church.

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

Early Bird Summer Church Camp registration is open now. Scholarships are available. Please contact Tracy Evers if your child is interested in going.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

UPCOMING EVENT

The Kelly’s will be singing in the sanctuary on Sunday evening, March 17th at 6 p.m.. Everyone is invited.

...Beginning Monday, February 12th, we will be accepting items for our Spring ard Sale. All proceeds go to missions—local, national, and international. The sale is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 16th and 17th, and the next weekend beginning at 7 a.m., each day.

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Brandon White Darryl Watson Andrew Holcomb & Family

Jerry Gibbs Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes

Beth Duncan Cissy Holt

Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Brett Holt Mark Brewer Sue Bivens

Bridgett Mosley Gattis Michael Assad

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

Larry Bailey Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Lanny Hurst Ron & Mary Randolph

Wayne Clayton Cliff Philpot

Jennifer Robertson Carley Henson

Kade Shultz Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

For Your Information: Updated address for Jim & Teresa Carey

154 Blue Jay Lane; Merritt Island, FL 32953

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Feb. 5th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, February 7th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, February 4th

Maria & Bryce McMahan

****Keri McMahan

Ushers for Sunday February 4th, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Ken Nelson, Clint Evers

Wayne Richardson

January 22, 2024

We will host the Lenten service in the Rose Chapel on Wednesday, March 13th, at noon (Community Lenten service). There will be no lunch this year, instead those who attend are asked to bring (non-perishable) canned goods for God’s Storehouse. An offering to the Lawrence County Ministerial Association will be taken at the service.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

The Finance Committee meets on February 6th, at 5:30 p.m.

The Administrative Board meets on February 6th, at 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night Supper

(January 31th, 2024)

Hamburger steak Potato wedges Rolls

Baked beans Yellow Cake w/Peanut butter icing

(Workers: Upper Room class-John & Carol Beasley, John & Kathy Johnstone, Chris & Kris Fann, Dwain Bradley, Beth Dube, Brian Winters)

...Volunteers will meet on Wednesday, January 31st, at 10 a.m., at Ingram Sowell School, to pack backpacks. All volunteers are welcome and appreciated.

BE RETREAT, CEDAR CREST CAMP 2024

Join us March 2-3, 2024 for Be Retreat at Cedar Crest Camp & Retreat Center. We invite 3rd-5th graders, adults leaders, and volunteers to join us. Please register your group and individuals here:

https://tinyurl.com/BeRetreat2024

We will start on Saturday at 9:00 and end by Noon on Sunday. Please update the form and reach out to Program Director Audrey Jordan if you need to make any registration changes (audrey.jordan@twkumc.org). Updates will be sent as the event approaches. Registration deadline is Monday, February 12, 2024.

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

Early Bird Summer Church Camp registration is open now. Scholarships are available. Please contact Tracy Evers if your child is interested in going.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! VBS is scheduled for the first 4 Wednesdays in May (May 1st, May 8th, May 15th and May 22nd).

This year’s theme is Camp Firelight. More details coming!!!!

From the Pastors Desk,

After way too long away in recovery, I will be preaching this Sunday, January 28 at both the 8:15 and 10:30 services. Thank you for prayers, cards and support.

The Church Council will be having a guest leader and guest preacher next Sunday, February 4 at both services with Holy Communion, Reverend Dr. Rob Martin. Rob is the Assistant to Bishop Bill McAllily. He formerly served as District Superintendent of the Western Kentucky Area, Senior Pastor of Paris First in Tennessee and several other churches. Reverend Bailey will assisting Rob in worship. Following worship, Rob will be joining members of Church Council (any member is welcome to attend and participate) lead by Jane Jennings in the CLC, for a provided lunch, then for about a 1.5 hour session on our church’s future after 200 years of ministry. Our desire is to develop a vision statement for the future. Following with committees meeting in February and March to developing goals to carry out the vision. Rob has tremendous knowledge of the church, to guide us in this process. Please write on the attendance pad if you can attend or call Terri Gobble in the office, so we can properly prepare meals and sitting.

Peace, Kent Bailey

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS

Nancy Moore—02/02/24

Aria Dube—02/05/24

John Cathey—02/08/24

Julie Wright Slater—02/11/2024

Malea Brewer—02/15/2024

Riley Godbey—02/17/2024

Gina Evers—02/25/24

Dwain Bradley—02/25/24

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

UPCOMING EVENT

The Kelly’s will be singing in the sanctuary on Sunday evening, March 17th at 6 p.m.. Everyone is invited.

The United Women in Faith (UMW) Executive Committee would like to thank all the ladies who made the Annual Unit Meeting a success by your attendance, prayers, and support. Our speaker was Charlotte Wilson, who informed us about the West Gaines School Community Center project and how we can best support this project.

Reminder: United Women in Faith (formerly UMW) have placed note cards on tables at various entrances to the church buildings. The cards are $5.00 for each set. Please place the funds inside the envelope provided at each table. Thank you for supporting us!

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

The Family of Druscilla Beuerlein Sue Bivens

Jerry Gibbs Linda Sowell & Beth Barnes Michael Assad

Wayne Clayton Jeff Marston Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Beth Benson Brett Holt Mark Brewer

Brenda Benson Mandy & Libby Jane Cone Bridgett Mosley Gattis

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

JoAnn Johnson Larry Bailey Shane Olive

Sherry Robertson Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Robin Thompson Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Larry Morris Susie Yoder

Jennifer Robertson Jane Philpot Wayne Clayton

Kade Shultz Carley Henson

Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, January 30th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, February 1st

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, January 28th

Kaycee McMahan & Luci Long

Ushers for Sunday January 28, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Dwain Bradley

Adam Slater

January 8, 2024

UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH

The United Women in Faith will have their Annual Unit Meeting on Sunday, January 14th, at 2:00 p.m., in the Rose Chapel? All women of the church are invited to attend.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

The Finance Committee meets on January 16th, at 5:30 p.m.

The Administrative Board meets on January 16th, at 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night Supper

(January 17th, 2024)

Spaghetti Salad

Fruit Garlic Bread

Chocolate Cake with chocolate icing

Workers: Volunteer II Group: Randy & Nancy Brewer

Beverly Duke, Cornelia Wood, Linda Ledbetter,

Jerry Gibbs)

(Workers, please be in the CLC kitchen at 5 p.m.)

...Volunteers will meet on Wednesday, January 17th, at 10 a.m., at Ingram Sowell School, to pack backpacks. All volunteers are welcome and appreciated.

BE RETREAT, CEDAR CREST CAMP 2024

Join us March 2-3, 2024 for Be Retreat at Cedar Crest Camp & Retreat Center. We invite 3rd-5th graders, adults leaders, and volunteers to join us. Please register your group and individuals here:

https://tinyurl.com/BeRetreat2024

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

Early Bird Summer Church Camp registration is open now. Scholarships are available. Please contact Tracy Evers if your child is interested in going.

...Christians Connect meets this Sunday, January 14th, following the 8:15 a.m. service. This month’s gathering is hosted by the Jerry Thomas class (Ken & Nancy Nelson, an & Jane Jennings, Gary & Sandy Lisnak, Sid & Carol James, Larry & Bonnie Thigpen, Mike & Chandra Nelms, and Danny and Theresa Puckett).

PRAYER CONCERNS—(Current Prayer Concerns)

Linda Sowell and Beth Barnes Michael Assad

Wayne Clayton Jeff Marston Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Beth Benson Brett Holt Mark Brewer

Brenda Benson Mandy & Libby Jane Cone Bridgett Mosley Gattis

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

JoAnn Johnson Larry Bailey Shane Olive

Sherry Robertson Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Robin Thompson Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Larry Morris Susie Yoder

Jennifer Robertson Jane Philpot Wayne Clayton

Kade Shultz Carley Henson

Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, January 16th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, January 18th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Ushers for Sunday January 14, 2024

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Ken Nelson

Wayne Richardson

Dec. 18th, 2023

...The Children’s Christmas Special will be Sunday morning, December 24th, at 10:30 a.m. We will have one service on Christmas Eve Sunday, at

10:30 a.m., in the sanctuary.

Christmas Eve Communion 6—9 pm. in the Sanctuary

Come and Go as you like

To the Church Family,

My sincere thanks and admiration to all who are graciously stepping up to minister to Bro. Kent and assist in his church duties during his illness. Special thanks go to Tracy Evers, Terri Gobble, Mitcie & Kevin Cisco, Dwain Bradley, Adam Slater, Tucker Laws, Dawn Bradley, Jodi Long, Beverly Duke and Sid James, and the Lawrenceburg Fire Department. Also, thank you to the church family for your patience and cooperation during this time. It is amazing to see the way the church always responds to a need, whether in the church or outside the church. It makes me thankful to be a part of such a caring church. You have been the hands and feet of Jesus in showing love to Bro. Kent and your church.
Jane Jennings, Administrative Board Chair

...The Outreach Committee of your church thanks all of you for your continued support of the Nicaraguan Education Scholarships for the students of Amatitan, Nicaragua. You have made a remarkable difference in the lives of students, their families, and their community. In an area where very few students were able to continue their educations past elementary school, there are now college graduates in the fields of electrical engineering, agricultural engineering, accounting, teaching, nursing, hospitality and tourism, and others. Thanks be to God for your support. You have been a part of the change in our world. God bless you all.

REMEMBER TO GET YOUR CHRISTMAS CARDS

DOWNSTAIRS BY THE ELEVATOR OR IN CHAPEL ENTRANCE

January Birthdays

Emmery Holt 01/06

Bonnie Thigpen 01/09

Ann Paley Hardy 01/10

Faye Henson 01/15

Brian Winters 01/17

Charlie & Max Winters 01/18

Cornelia Clifton-Wood 01/19

Charlie Brewer 01/20

Neal Ledbetter 01/20

Russ Brewer 01/22

Jakson Gerrard 01/24

Betsy Phelps 01/27

BE RETREAT, CEDAR CREST CAMP 2024

Join us March 2-3, 2024 for Be Retreat at Cedar Crest Camp & Retreat Center. We invite 3rd-5th graders, adults leaders, and volunteers to join us. Please register your group and individuals here:

https://tinyurl.com/BeRetreat2024

PRAYER CONCERNS

(Current Prayer Concerns)

Bro. Kent: Encompass Health Rehabilitation 1000 Physicians Way, Franklin, TN 37067

Wayne Clayton Jeff Marston Beth Duncan

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Beth Benson Brett Holt Mark Brewer

Brenda Benson Mandy & Libby Jane Cone Bridgett Mosley Gattis

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

JoAnn Johnson Larry Bailey Shane Olive

Sherry Robertson Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Robin Thompson Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Larry Morris Susie Yoder

Jennifer Robertson Jane Philpot Wayne Clayton

Kade Shultz Carley Henson

Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Dec. 26th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Dec. 28th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, Dec. 24th

Sammy Evers & Lucy Winters

Ushers for Sunday Dec. 24th, 2023

(10:30 am. Service)

Adam Glogau, Dwain Bradley

Jerry Gibbs

December 4, 2023

December 13th—Volunteers will meet at 10 a.m., at Ingram Sowell school, to pack backpacks.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

Dec. 13th

(Adults $10; School age and under $5)

Menu: Taco Bar, Chips w/salsa, Rice, Chocolate cae w/chocolate icing

Workers: Volunteer I Group (Bruce & Barbara Edwards; Bill & Sharon Loete, Craig & Mary Meier, Tim & Maggie Spencer, Dorothy Booth

We will be hosting the Coffman Choral group that evening as they present their Christmas music. Everyone is welcome.

Holiday Poinsettias

...We are not going to order Poinsettias from the church this year, however, if anyone wishes to purchase a Poinsettia themselves and place it in the sanctuary, you are welcome to do so. We will include a note in the bulletin to honor someone and/or in memory of someone. You may contact the church office if you plan to do that. Thank you.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

The Children’s Christmas Program will be December 24th, from 9:30—10:30 a.m., in the sanctuary. Everyone is invited to attend! Santa and Charlie will be making a special appearance that Sunday.

...Housekeeper/Cleaner available with recommendation from Mary Randolph.

Excellent work! Contact Mary at: 931-629-1124.

...The Mary-Martha Circle will have their Christmas Gathering on Monday,

December 11th, at 5:30 p.m., at Striker’s Restaurant.

...The Lydia Circle will meet for their Christmas gathering on Tuesday,

December 12th, at 11 a.m., at Striker’s restaurant.

Choir Christmas musical and Hand Bells—Sunday, December 17th,

10:30am.—Sanctuary

Dear Sr. Youth Group, Thank you for the Chrismon tree your group placed in the Rose Chapel for the Advent Season. Everyone at last Sunday’s early service was pleasantly surprised and very thankful your group remembered the early service worshipers. Yours in Christ,

Bonnie & Larry Thigpen

PRAYER CONCERNS—

(Current Prayer Concerns)

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson Bro. Kent

Beth Benson Brett Holt Mark Brewer

Brenda Benson Mandy & Libby Jane Cone Bridgett Mosley Gattis

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

JoAnn Johnson Larry Bailey Shane Olive

Sherry Robertson Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Robin Thompson Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Larry Morris Susie Yoder

Jennifer Robertson Jane Philpot Wayne Clayton

Kade Shultz Carley Henson

Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Dec. 12th

Linda Newton, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Dec. 14th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Nov. 27th, 2023

SCHEDULED AND UPCOMING MEETINGS/EVENTS

December 2nd—Children/Youth Fund Raiser on church lawn while we watch the Christmas parade. Featuring Hot Chocolate and Soup. Everyone please come out and support your church and the children and youth!

December 5th—Prayer Shawl ministry meets at 9 a.m.

December 13th—Volunteers will meet at 10 a.m., at Ingram Sowell school, to pack backpacks.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SUPPER

Dec. 6th

(Adults $10; School age and under $5)

Menu: Chicken tenders, Mac & Cheese, Green beans, Rolls, Cookies w/ice cream

Workers: Upper Room: John & Carol Beasley, John & Kathy Johnstone, Kris Fann, Dwain Bradley, Beth Dube, Brian Winters

From Reverend Bailey,

During the Advent Season, continuing through Christmas Eve Sunday, I’ll be preaching a sermon series, each building upon the other:

December 3rd – Scripture Reading - Exodus 2:1-10

Sermon – “Moses: A Child Adrift”

December 10th – Scripture Reading – I Samuel 1:1-8, 19-=20

Sermon – “Samuel: A Burdened Child”

December 17th — (8:15am Service only) Scripture Reading – Genesis 21:1-6

Sermon – “Isaac: A Child Called Laughter”

10;30am Service Christmas Cantata – no sermon)

December 24th – Scripture Reading – Luke 2:15-20

Sermon – “Jesus: A Child of Mystery”

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Bobby Belew—Dec. 1st

Daniel Hunt—Dec. 4th

Tracy Evers—Dec. 12th

Lucy Winters—Dec. 12th

Gracie Henson—Dec. 14th

Heath McKnight—Dec. 16th

Jill Mitchell—Dec. 18th

Jonah Winters—Dec. 21st

Brian Shultz—Dec. 24th

Hud Moore—Dec. 28th

Cliff Philpot, III—Dec. 31st

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS

PROGRAM

The Children’s Christmas Program will be December 24th, from

9:30—10:30 a.m., in the sanctuary. Everyone is invited to attend! Santa and Charlie will be making a special appearance that Sunday.

...Housekeeper/Cleaner available with recommendation from Mary Randolph.

Excellent work! Contact Mary at:

931-629-1124.

Holiday Poinsettias

...The Chrismon trees and decorations have been put up this week. A lot of people notice the Chrismon ornaments but they don’t know the meaning of them. The church office has run off some booklets, which you will see placed with the bulletins in the sanctuary if you would be interested in learning more about the Chrismon ornaments and what they represent. You may notice that the ornaments pictured in this booklet are all needlework ornaments. However, you will notice that the ornaments on the trees in the sanctuary are a mix of handmade as well as needlework.

...The Mary-Martha Circle will have their Christmas Gathering on Monday, December 11th, at 5:30 p.m., at Striker’s Restaurant.

PRAYER CONCERNS

(Current Prayer Concerns)

**(Please let the church office know if someone needs to be added or taken off the prayer

Cissy Holt Beverly Richardson

Beth Benson Brett Holt Mark Brewer

Brenda Benson Mandy & Libby Jane Cone Bridgett Mosley Gattis

Meredith McCoy McCraw Deanna Thigpen Cliff Philpot

Dr. Scott Benefield & Family Joan Emerson Patricia Chapman

Danny Carter Jeff Weeks Susie De Antonio

Carroll & Cathy Curry Jackson Murtha Marty Crews

Bob Brown Susan Beuerlein

Ongoing Prayer Concerns

JoAnn Johnson Larry Bailey Shane Olive

Sherry Robertson Roy Bradley Ed Bryant

Holly Glogau-Morgan Robin Thompson Lanny Hurst

Ron & Mary Randolph Larry Morris Susie Yoder

Jennifer Robertson Jane Philpot Wayne Clayton

Kade Shultz Carley Henson

Fountain of Life Church-Nicaragua

My Service

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Tuesday, Dec. 5th

Sharon Loete, Bruce & Barbara Edwards

Thursday, Dec. 7th

Mary Meier, Jerry & Martha Jo Gibbs

Acolytes for Sunday, Dec. 6th

Kaycee McMahan & Emma Grace Olive

Ushers for Sunday Dec. 3rd, 2023

(10:30 am. Service)

Jerry Gibbs, Ken Nelson

Wayne Richardson