Tuesday, July 01, 2008

You can participate -- “The ‘We Believe’ Radio/TV Show at Belmont UMC” – Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. through August 14th

James Walsh’s award winning radio and television show, “WE BELIEVE,” has come to Belmont United Methodist Church to be the program for “Summer Nights at Belmont” in its 27th year, on Thursday nights this year, beginning June 5 and continuing through the summer until August 14. For several years, the television show has won awards as “Best Religious Programming” and “Best Talk Show” in both regional and national competition among Community Access TV programs. Since 1986, Jim Walsh has hosted his Roman Catholic sponsored show with his permanent guest partner, Belmont’s Richard Shriver.

General Walsh (Assistant District Attorney General for Metro, Retired – and Roman Catholic Deacon and theologian) will show DVDs of the television show, and will actually tape new radio programs at the Thursday night sessions, followed each night with question and answer and discussion time with the class members.

The topic for the summer will be “Ecumenism, Catholic and Protestant” and will explore the beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church and the corresponding beliefs of Protestantism in general and Methodism in specific.

All are welcome and, of course, no fees.

The Thursday evening schedule will be, June 5 – August 14:

7:00 P.M. – Open with singing (as usual)
7:20 P.M. – Viewing the TV Show and taping the Radio Show “We Believe” and discussion
8:40 P.M. – English tea and refreshments (as usual)
9:00 P.M. - Close

"We Believe" appears on Nashville Cable TV Channel 19, 7:00 P.M. each Wednesday, and on WNQM AM Radio, 9:30 A.M. each Saturday, plus many other TV and Radio stations across the country. The radio version also goes all over the world weekly on WWCR Short Wave. Recorded programs are available in DVD and CD.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Tennessee Conference Church makes tax filing less taxing for people needing help

Julian Suggs, a retired pastor who volunteers with Tax-Aide, helps retiree Thelma Mulloy, 76, and her disabled son, Paul, file their income tax forms. UMNS photos by Ronny Perry.

By Eve Annunziato*

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS)--Tax season can be one of the most dreaded times of the year, but one United Methodist congregation is approaching it as an outreach opportunity - an outreach that includes hot coffee and fresh donuts.

West Nashville United Methodist Church is offering a free Tax-Aide clinic every Saturday for three months. The Tax-Aide program, created by AARP, has assisted more than 30 million seniors and low-income people over the past 40 years.

"The doors of this church are always open because we have a real open-door policy," says Sherry Cothran Woolsey, director of missions at West Nashville United Methodist Church. She sees being a part of the Tax-Aide program as in line with the church's purpose.

"Anything that we can do that expresses the mission of the church - love of God and love of neighbor - that's what we're all about," Woolsey says.

Tax-Aide provides tax preparation help to low- and middle-income taxpayers free of charge. The program depends on 32,000 volunteers working at more than 7,800 sites around the United States.

One such volunteer is Julian Suggs, a former pastor who serves as the Tax-Aide district coordinator for the Middle Tennessee area. Suggs and a dozen other certified trained experts work at the West Nashville Church site, giving up 11 consecutive Saturdays to give others a special tax break.

"My wife and I, shall I say, have a healthy discussion this time of year," Suggs says. "She says, 'You know you're working a full-time job as a volunteer.' And, I answer, 'Yes, but I believe in it!'"

Tax picture can change
Suggs, with his upbeat demeanor and friendly smile, walks around the clinic assisting clients, answering questions and speaking with people as they await their turn to see an agent.

The tax picture for retirees can change dramatically in a short period of time, Suggs says. For instance, if the spouse who usually prepares the household taxes becomes sick or dies, filing can become a difficult issue. In addition, he says, paying an accountant or broker can be a budget buster.

"There are very few seniors that understand these complicated affairs," Suggs says. "The elderly, widows and poor income families need help, and I feel fortunate that I've been trained to provide that help. And this is very rewarding. After their forms are all accepted, I have the most wonderful calm and peace that I was able to help people and save them a lot of money."

'A great help'
After filing her taxes at the West Nashville Church, retired factory worker Thelma Mulloy, 76, is no longer fretting and fussing over the process. She is getting her taxes completed electronically and claims she couldn't do this without the help of the experts.

"This would take a chunk out of my Social Security check, which I need for house payments, light bills and water bills," she says. "And I need all the money I can get for my medication, so this is just a great help for me."

"When you don't have a lot of funds coming in every month after you retire, you don't have a job and you live on Social Security, you just don't have the money you would like to have. This just means a whole lot," says client Nira Gamble, 74, of the church's Tax-Aide program. "I think this is wonderful. … I appreciate all of these people."

Tax-Aide client Lillian Richmond, 52, also has a trained financial counselor advising her at no cost.

"I'm all finished with my taxes," she says. "And it was for free - and they serve coffee and donuts, too. You can't beat that. I'm relieved and appreciate it now that it's over with and filed electronically. I don't even have to put a stamp on it!"

More information on Tax-Aide is available by calling (888) 227-7669 or going to http://www.aarp.org/ online.

*Annunziato is a freelance producer for United Methodist Communications in Nashville, Tenn.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Nashville to Observe 10-Year Anniversary of Tornado with World Premiere of New Choral/Orchestral Work

On April 16, ten years to the day that a powerful tornado created a path of destruction through Nashville, singers from East Nashville and the Vanderbilt community, accompanied by chamber orchestra, will present the world premiere of a new work commissioned to observe the storm’s 10-year anniversary and the community revitalization that has occurred in that decade.

The four-movement piece, “The Gardener,” was composed by David Childs, Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music. The performance will be directed by Joseph Lee, Music Director at East End United Methodist Church. The premiere performance will be Wednesday, April 16 at 7:00 PM in the historic sanctuary of & lt; u1:place u2:st="on">East End United Methodist Church, 1212 Holly Street. The concert is free and open to the public and child care will be provided. A community photo and video exhibit will also be on display at the event.

On April 16, 1998, Nashville became the first major U.S. city in nearly 20 years to be struck by an F2 (or larger) tornado in the downtown area. The tornado, which tore through neighborhoods in East Nashville, claimed the life of Vanderbilt senior Kevin Longinotti and caused approximately $100 million in damages. At the center of Nashville’s historic neighborhoods east of downtown, East End United Methodist Church served as the staging area for countless relief crews providing aide and assistance to storm victims.

“The Gardener” was commissioned by East End United Methodist Church and is sponsored by Rediscover East! and East Nashville neighborhood associations, businesses, and individuals.

Note by Jama Bowen: The East Nashville congregation is no stranger to providing assistance to disaster victims.

The church buildings remained virtually untouched by three major disasters which struck the neighborhood over the last century. In 1916, more than 700 homes were destroyed or damaged by a fire which left 3,000 neighbors homeless. Then in 1933, a tornado ripped through the neighborhood killing 37 persons and causing mass destruction. East End Methodist welcomed Eastland Christian Church to hold services in the sanctuary until Eastland’s own tornado damage could be repaired. Sixty-five years later in 1998, another tornado followed a nearly identical path through East Nashville. The only physical change to the main building occurred when the huge wooden doors of the sanctuary were pulled open by the tornado, despite being dead-bolt locked. East End once again shared the sanctuary with another congregation, the Power of Deliverance, whose own church building was destroyed. Through all three of these disasters, East End United Methodist Church played a pivotal role in providing aide and assistance to thousands of victims.

Monday, March 10, 2008

Bethlehem United Methodist Church hosts Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Blessing of the Animals, Saturday, March 22nd, 10:00 a.m.

Nothing rings in springtime quite like Easter. That means two long-standing Bethlehem United Methodist Church traditions are just around the corner and the community is invited. On Saturday, March 22, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on the church grounds at 2419 Bethlehem Loop Road in the Grassland area.

Children will be divided into three age groups to hunt in different areas. At 10:00 sharp the children will burst from their starting gates like Derby race horses - so you won't want to be a second late! Just like the Derby, bonnets are always in style for the ladies! To knock off the early springtime chill, hot coffee and cocoa will be served. If the chill is too intense, the hunt will
move inside the church gym, so plan to come - rain, snow or shine! With a little luck, the children's Sunday School caterpillars will be butterflies by then and ready for release!

Immediately following the egg hunt, all attention will turn to our favorite four legged friends. The Blessing of the Animals is a wonderful Easter tradition at Bethlehem. Held next to the children's playground behind the main building, this outdoor service recognizes all God's creatures and the important place they each hold in our world, as well as our lives. Dogs, cats, horses, birds, gerbils, reptiles and even fish have been blessed in the past. It's a short,
but meaningful, service that will absolutely make your day!

Both of these events are wonderful opportunities to reach out to our community.

The church will provide plenty of eggs, candy and atmosphere to make this a fun Saturday morning Easter event. You are also invited to come back to Bethlehem for Easter Sunday morning services at 6:30 a.m. (Sunrise Service) or 8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.. For more information on either event or other Easter opportunities, contact the church office at 794-6721 or visit www.bethlehemumc.com.

Friday, March 07, 2008

Antioch Church Remembers “The Passion” Through The Seven Last Words

Back in 2004, “The Passion of the Christ” was the hot topic of conversation, as Mel Gibson’s movie made its way through the movie theaters. Four years later, the movie has faded into history, but the subject of Jesus’ arrest, death, and resurrection continues to be on the mind of those persons who call themselves Christian. This is especially true for the people of the Antioch United Methodist Church as they offer a special opportunity to think about Jesus’ death in a special art/prayer exhibit called “The Seven Last Words.”

Throughout the ages, from the earliest days of the church, Christian people have used the week before Easter Sunday as a time of special reflection and prayer on the story of Christ’s passion. This week, called “Holy Week” in some traditions, begins with Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and then follows the subsequent events, including the Last Supper, Jesus’ praying in Gethsemane, his arrest, trial, and crucifixion. Many Christian churches host special worship service during this week.

The Antioch United Methodist Church is likewise hosting special worship services on Thursday and Friday of Holy Week, but they are going a bit farther in trying to help all think about the implications of Jesus’ death. The Seven Last Words is both an art exhibit and a prayer space designed to help persons connect with the story of Christ’s death through artistic interpretations of the last seven phrases that Jesus is reported to say in the hours and moments leading up to his crucifixion. The goal of the event is to help persons think in new ways about the meaning of Jesus for our world today, and participants are invited to come and interactively engage in reflecting on the person of Jesus.

The Seven Last Words will open in conjunction with the Antioch UMC Spring Fling on Saturday, March 15 at 9 a.m. and be open from 8:00 until 6:00 p.m. on March 16, 5:00 until 9:00 p.m. on March 19-21, and by appointment (by calling 832-6248).

The Antioch United Methodist Church is located on Tusculum Rd, just off Blue Hole Rd., in Antioch.

Friday, February 29, 2008

Father of the Bride Heads Down The Aisle April 4-13 Bethlehem UMC Community Theatre

(l to r): Father of the Bride is being staged at Bethlehem UMC April 4 – 13 and stars, Anne Meriwether, Johnny Peppers and Scott Meriwether.

FRANKLIN---The beloved comedy “Father Of The Bride” heads down the aisle into Franklin area community theatre April 4 – 13 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 2419 Bethlehem Loop, just off Hillsboro Road.

Long before “Father of the Bride” was a hit movie, Caroline Francke's adaptation of Edward Streeter's popular novel was a successful stage play. Theatre veteran Dietz Osborne returns to the Bethlehem Players as director of this timeless comedy which revolves around the father, Stanley Banks, learning his daughter is announcing her engagement out of nowhere. He is thrown into a dither as the guest list grows larger each day and the household falls into hilarious turmoil.

“We have a talented and terrific cast who bring this family-friendly production to life. Area actor Johnny Peppers adds depth and humor to the character of beloved curmudgeon Stanley Banks and is ably joined by comedic actress Deborah Robinson. A charming twist to our production is the bride and groom are being played by an adorable, married couple, Scott and Anne Meriwether,” Osborne said. “Anne had previously been on the Bethlehem stage as a teenager in “Meet Me In St. Louis.”

Each year the Bethlehem Players selects a benefiting charity for their productions. This year, donations will be accepted to help underwrite a BUMC Mission Team traveling in July to Cuba to assist the Methodist church in the renovation of an Old Havana building being converted into a seminary to train pastors and other church leaders.

“Father Of The Bride” will be held April 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13 at 7 p.m. with general admission tickets $15.00 Dinner shows are April 8 and 10 beginning at 4:45 p.m. and tickets are $20.00. For reservations, contact the Bethlehem Players at (615) 791-6456, ext. 2 or drama@bethlehemumc.com. Group reservations are available for parties of ten or more.

The Bethlehem Players are celebrating their 11th year of exceptional family entertainment. The Players were started in 1997 by BUMC Music and Arts Director Harry Robinson as a community outreach and a unique version of “church softball.” Since its inception, the Bethlehem Players have successfully staged for packed audiences “Music Man,” “Fiddler On The Roof,” “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” “Steel Magnolias,” “Arsenic and Old Lace”, “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “Neil Simon's Rumors,” and “Bad Year for Tomatoes.” For more information, visit http://www.bethlehemumc.com/.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Father of the Bride Heads Down The Aisle April 4-13 Bethlehem UMC Community Theatre

Father of the Bride is being staged at Bethlehem UMC April 4 – 13 and stars, Anne Meriwether, Johnny Peppers and Scott Meriwether.

FRANKLIN---The beloved comedy “Father Of The Bride” heads down the aisle into Franklin area community theatre April 4 – 13 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 2419 Bethlehem Loop, just off Hillsboro Road.

Long before “Father of the Bride” was a hit movie, Caroline Francke's adaptation of Edward Streeter's popular novel was a successful stage play. Theatre veteran Dietz Osborne returns to the Bethlehem Players as director of this timeless comedy which revolves around the father, Stanley Banks, learning his daughter is announcing her engagement out of nowhere. He is thrown into a dither as the guest list grows larger each day and the household falls into hilarious turmoil.

“We have a talented and terrific cast who bring this family-friendly production to life. Area actor Johnny Peppers adds depth and humor to the character of beloved curmudgeon Stanley Banks and is ably joined by comedic actress Deborah Robinson. A charming twist to our production is the bride and groom are being played by an adorable, married couple, Scott and Anne Meriwether,” Osborne said. “Anne had previously been on the Bethlehem stage as a teenager in “Meet Me In St. Louis.”

Each year the Bethlehem Players selects a benefiting charity for their productions. This year, donations will be accepted to help underwrite a BUMC Mission Team traveling in July to Cuba to assist the Methodist church in the renovation of an Old Havana building being converted into a seminary to train pastors and other church leaders.

“Father Of The Bride” will be held April 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13 at 7 p.m. with general admission tickets $15.00 Dinner shows are April 8 and 10 beginning at 4:45 p.m. and tickets are $20.00. For reservations, contact the Bethlehem Players at (615) 791-6456, ext. 2 or drama@bethlehemumc.com. Group reservations are available for parties of ten or more.

The Bethlehem Players are celebrating their 11th year of exceptional family entertainment. The Players were started in 1997 by BUMC Music and Arts Director Harry Robinson as a community outreach and a unique version of “church softball.” Since its inception, the Bethlehem Players have successfully staged for packed audiences “Music Man,” “Fiddler On The Roof,” “Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” “Steel Magnolias,” “Arsenic and Old Lace”, “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “Neil Simon's Rumors,” and “Bad Year for Tomatoes.” For more information, visit http://www.bethlehemumc.com/.

Directions to Bethlehem United Methodist Church:
Located off Hillsboro Road in the Franklin’s Grassland Community. From Nashville, travel Hillsboro Road south toward Franklin. Turn at traffic light onto Old Hillsboro Road. First left onto Bethlehem Loop. BUMC is located on the right at 2419 Bethlehem Loop. Event night number: 615/582-0554.

Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Singer/Songwriter Sarah Hart Host "Daughters Day of Reflection"; Women's Retreat to Benefit Jacob's Ladder Preschool, April 19, 2008

(NASHVILLE, TN)—Though her career as a singer, songwriter and speaker leads her to travel all over the globe, it is Sarah Hart’s role as mom that has led her to Nolensville, Tennessee. On Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this noted artist and speaker will lead women in a one-day retreat dubbed ‘Daughters Day of Reflection,’ held at Nolensville First United Methodist Church.

‘Daughters Day of Reflection’ will allow women the opportunity to see what makes them unique and yet connected to one another, through reflection on the women of scripture. The day includes extensive study of prominent women of the Bible, snack, lunch and music by Sarah Hart.

Tickets for the event are $25 and are available by contacting Jacob’s Ladder Preschool at 776-7362. All proceeds go to benefit Jacob’s Ladder Preschool at Nolensville First United Methodist Church. The preschool is a non-denominational Bible-based early childhood development center in the community for children ages three to five.

“This is my daughter’s third, and sadly, last year at Jacob’s Ladder,” says Hart. “We have been so blessed to be a part of this program. What Terri and her staff have accomplished with the children and families at Jacob’s Ladder is a gift to our community; this day is just a little ‘thank you’ from my own family!”

“There will be lots of singing, storytelling, and sharing during the Day of Reflection,” she continues. “And every woman who attends should feel refreshed and re-energized after our time together!”

Sarah is currently at work on her latest project, Road to Ohio, slated for a spring release on Centricity Records. A folk recording, described by Hart as “sparse and acoustic”, it is co-produced by Sarah and friend Mitch Dane, known for his work with Grammy Award-winning band Jars of Clay. She also begins a new recording in March of 2008 entitled SaintSong, which will feature the writings of some of the greatest religious thinkers of history set to contemporary music.

Sarah has toured with such contemporary Christian artists as Wes King and Kathy Troccoli, and has performed with numerous other artists such as Newsboys and Randy Stonehill. Her music has appeared on radio everywhere and has been featured on such television shows as Joan of Arcadia and Strong Medicine. Sarah has received six Unity Awards from the United Catholic Music and Video Association for her work, including the 2005 awards for Producer of the Year, Album of the Year and Songwriter of the Year for her third solo project, Into These Rooms.

Hart is the mother of two girls, and makes her home in Nolensville with husband Kevin. In addition to recording three solo albums and numerous compilation projects, she is an award-winning record producer, a founder of the popular all-women singing group Daughters of God, and has been a staff songwriter for major Christian music publishers. She also works with the Tom Tichener Children’s Theater at the Nashville Public Library as a songwriter and performer. To learn more about Sarah Hart, go to www.SarahHartmusic.com.

Jacob’s Ladder Preschool is headed by Terri Anderson, and is a ministry of Nolensville United Methodist Church. The Church is pastored by Rev. Sandy Shawhan, and is located at 7316 Nolensville Road in Nolensville, Tenn. To find out more about Jacob’s Ladder Preschool or Nolensville United Methodist Church, go to www.nolensvilleumc.org or call 615/776-2815.

Friday, September 14, 2007

East End United Methodist Church Celebrates 100 Years on Holly Street with Homecoming Sept. 30

East End UMC's men's Sunday school class seated on the front steps of the sanctuary in the early years.

On a fall afternoon in 1907, the members of East End United Methodist Church, 1212 Holly Street, gathered on the front lawn to dedicate the completion of the brand new sanctuary. It was a bustling time in Nashville and in the nation, then comprising 45 states. Teddy Roosevelt was president, electric trolleys were Nashville’s mode of public transportation, and magician Harry Houdini was all the rage. On Sunday, Sept. 30, 2007, the East End congregation will celebrate the sanctuary’s 100th anniversary with a homecoming event featuring special music, speakers from several generations of East Enders, and a luncheon.

East End Methodist Church was established in 1889, but it soon outgrew the first building it constructed at 1100 Fatherland. In 1905, the congregation purchased the land on Holly Street, in Nashville’s historic East End neighborhood, for $2,500 and funded the $14,000 needed to start basic construction. On October 27, 1907, the sanctuary was complete and a capacity crowd attended worship service and laid the cornerstone.

For 100 years, generations have lovingly cared for the sanctuary, striving to honor its purpose as a house of worship and maintain its historic and architectural integrity. The building combines a Victorian style Romanesque Revival exterior with a Colonial Revival interior. The tower design is taken directly from medieval fortification, including the tower’s arrow slits.

The main stained glass window at the north end of the sanctuary pictures Christ as the Good Shepherd. The window has been attributed by some to the Tiffany Studios. The sanctuary’s pipe organ was purchased in 1912, with philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donating one-half of the needed funds. The unique pipe organ is still used today in all of East End’s services.

East End UMC's pipe organ shortly after it was installed in 1912. It is still used today in East End's services

Over the last century the church campus has grown to include the construction of Sunday school classrooms and playground (1921), parsonage (1923), annex and park (1946), and an additional wing (1950s).

The church buildings remained virtually untouched by three major disasters which struck the neighborhood over the last century. In 1916, more than 700 homes were destroyed or damaged by a fire which left 3,000 neighbors homeless. Then in 1933, a tornado ripped through the neighborhood killing 37 persons and causing mass destruction. East End Methodist welcomed Eastland Christian Church to hold services in the sanctuary until Eastland’s own tornado damage could be repaired. Sixty-five years later in 1998, another tornado followed a nearly identical path through East Nashville. The only physical change to the main building occurred when the huge wooden doors of the sanctuary were pulled open by the tornado, despite being dead-bolt locked. East End once again shared the sanctuary with another congregation, the Power of Deliverance, whose own church building was destroyed. Through all three of these disasters, East End United Methodist Church played a pivotal role in providing aide and assistance to thousands of victims.

To further commemorate the sanctuary’s first 100 years, the church is collecting 100 Prayers of Thanksgiving and 100 Prayers of Hope. Prayers may be sent by email to office@eastendumc.org; mail to 1212 Holly Street, Nashville TN, 37206; or phone 615-227-3272.

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Antioch Church Holds Twentieth Fall Fair

Twenty years ago, the members of the Antioch United Methodist Church were looking for a way to raise a few dollars and reach out to their neighborhood. They came upon the idea of hosting a small "Fall Fair," inviting their neighbors to gather for some shopping and a great meal.

Twenty years later, the members of the church shake their heads at what this event has become. What started out with humble beginnings has become an important community event, bringing almost a thousand people to the church on the first Saturday in October. It has expanded to include a flea market, a farmer's market, a bake sale, both silent and regular auctions of items from all over, a breakfast and barbecue lunch, and a children's carnival area.

The church has had to include parking attendants to help with the traffic, and church members have to park down the street and ride a shuttle bus to leave parking spaces for the guests. "It's really hard to imagine the scope of what we do on that day," said Jay Voorhees, pastor of the congregation. "You really have to experience it first hand."

Voorhees shared that the church sees this as a service to the people of Antioch and South Nashville. "We don't have enough opportunities to gather as a community in South Nashville. We hope that our Fall Fair can be one of those times where neighbors from throughout the Antioch area and beyond gather for fun and fellowship."

However, the reach of this event goes beyond a single day and a single congregation. The Antioch congregation designates almost half of the proceeds of the event to be awarded to service projects and organizations outside of the church. These funds have been used to prepare biscuits for local hunger agencies, build houses for Habitat for Humanity, and support local work with the homeless and needy of Nashville and beyond.

This year will feature a new dress up area for the children. Kids will be able to dress up in costume, get made up, and have pictures taken of them in a variety of outfits. The Antioch United Methodist Church Fall Fair 2007 will be held on Saturday, October 6, from 8:00 a.m. until 2 p.m. More information about the event can be obtained by calling the church office at 832-6248 or e-mail at office@antiochumc.net. The Antioch United Methodist Church is located at 41 Tusculum Rd., near Blue Hole Rd. in Antioch.

Palestine United Methodist Church – 150th Anniversary Celebration, Sunday, September 9, 2007, 11:00 a.m.

In 1857 a group of settlers lived near and around Carrs Creek, on the south side of Springfield, TN. The families were meeting in the homes for Worship on Sundays and found a need to find a place for the community to have a place to Worship. Land was given to a group of men who became the trustees for what was then known as Palestine Methodist Episcopal Church South. On this land was a log structure, which was used for a place to Worship and a school house for the community.

In 1895 a new church was built by the members of the church. The trees that stood on the land were cut and sawed into lumber and the members of the church took on the task of building the church. Though the name has changed to Palestine United Methodist Church, this same building is still used for a place of Worship by the current members today.

On Sunday, September 9, 2007 at 11:00 A.M. we will gather for Homecoming to celebrate our 150th anniversary of the church. Rev. Delwyn Fryer will be our guest speaker for the church service. Rev. Fryer is a former member of Palestine and is now Pastor of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church. His brother, Rev. Jeff Fryer, is now a retired United Methodist pastor. They have both shared stories of their grandfather, Samuel Q. Fryer, a local pastor, and how he preached many a sermon under the old shed that once stood on the church property.

Lunch will be served following the 11AM worship service.

The afternoon will be filled with gospel singing featuring James Marshall, The Mellatones, Jerry and Betty Boyte, Tim and Pam Harris, 4 Praise, Homer Felts and Family, Rick Wilson and Friends and others.

A traditional love offering will be taken this day for the maintenance of the cemetery.

A book of the history of Palestine United Methodist Church, plus a pencil sketch of the church by Leslie Alley will be available for purchase.
Pastor Diane Coppock and current members of Palestine cordially invite all families and friends, past and present to come and celebrate with us on this very special day. The church is located at 2715 Old Hwy. 431, Springfield, TN

Greenville United Methodist Church Annual BBQ-Picnic-Auction Saturday, September 15, 2007

For over 100 years people have come from near and far to experience what may well be the best lip licking barbecue pork/chicken in the Middle Tennessee area. This year will be no exception. A feast of flavors await those who will be dining on hickory smoked pork barbecue, barbecue chicken, fixins, homemade desserts, and drinks that will surely take all hunger pangs sway, and leave you with great memories.

This whole day of activities begin at 8 AM with one of the largest yard sales in the area. At 11 AM everyone's favorite, "The Country Store," opens for business with treasures and goodies for everyone. Also, at 11 AM hickory smoked barbecue by the pound ($7) and Brown Bag Lunch specials will begin. At 1 PM all the fun outside activities begin with inflatable jumps, rides, games, sweet shop, cake walk, and special booths, all designed for every age to have fun.

Auction items, "LIKE YOU CANNOT IMAGINE OR BELIEVE," will be going on. Silent auction items will be from 11 AM - 5:30 PM. The special LIVE Auction will begin at 7:PM. Come early and browse the items and scope out your treasures. The auction always brings in many different items from small to gigantic. You will surely be able to pick up a few and be glad you came

The famous Greenville Barbecue Dinner will be from 4-6:30 PM with air conditioned seating, as well as outdoors. This meal is guaranteed to make your eyes light up and your tummy say "HOWDY!" Prices are $7 for adults and $4 for children. Take out plates will be available from 4-6 PM.

We invite you to come out for the day and experience hospitality, fun, and the best food around. For more information, please call Mark Bowers @ 615-513-3766

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Grace United Methodist Church, Mt. Juliet, Announces second annual Centerfest Christian Music Festival, September 8, 2007

On Saturday, September 8 the second annual Centerfest, Middle Tennessee’s premiere outdoor Christian music festival, will descend upon Mount Juliet from 10 AM to 9 PM.

Centerfest will be a day full of music by nationally and regionally known Christian bands representing many genres of music including rock, pop, hip-hop and metal.

Centerfest will feature both nationally and locally known contemporary Christian bands and artists. Dove Award nominated artist John Reuben (www.johnreuben.com) will headline the festival. Since 2000 Reuben has released six albums on Gotee Records; the first four albums sold over 200,000 copies. Reuben was recently featured on NPR's popular All Things Considered online music feature and his humorous music videos have received several hundred thousand plays on YouTube.com.

Also featured is Arkansas hard rock Tooth and Nail Records artist Spoken (www.spokenmusic.com), a Dove Award nominated hard rock band whose seventh album will be in stores on September 25.

The eclectic KNAPSACKHEROES! will also appear. KNAPSACKHEROES! is a band from the Nashville area who is making a name for themselves with an exciting live show and original blend of pop music. The band is currently in the studio working on a full length CD with producers who have worked with artists including Mute Math, Switchfoot, Faith Hill, dcTalk, Newsboys, Phil Keaggy, David Crowder Band, Rebecca St James, and many others. They have played at Warmth in Winter for the past two years.

Other artists include: Redflecks, Brothatone, The Capture, Salient, Waterside, Natural Habitz, The Last Goodbye, and Spoken Word Praise.

In addition to the music there will be activities for people of all ages, including a kids section with games and other options.

Centerfest will open to the public at 10 am. Music will begin at 11 AM and continue until 9 PM. Tickets are $8 in advance for individuals and $6 in advance for groups of 10 or more. Those tickets are available at www.centerfest.net, and the church office. Tickets will be $10 the day of the event.

Food and drinks will be for sale that day at reasonable rates. No food or drinks will be allowed into the event. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, tarps and lawn chairs.

Centerfest is an interdenominational outreach of Grace UMC meant to serve the greater Middle Tennessee area. All churches, groups, and individuals are encouraged to come.

Centerfest will take place at:
Grace United Methodist Church
2905 N Mount Juliet Road
Mt Juliet TN 37122

For more information on the CENTERFEST Christian Music Festival visit www.centerfest.net.

Friday, August 17, 2007

Walnut Grove United Methodist Church invites everyone to the Kick Off of a week of Revival Meetings -- Friend Raiser Fish Fry, August 25, 5:00 p.m.

AUGUST 25 – 31, 2007 is Revival Week at Walnut Grove United Methodist Church
Belvidere, Tennessee.

Walnut Grove invites everyone to their annual Friend Raiser Fish Fry on Saturday, August 25, to kick off a week of Revival meetings. Food will be served beginning at 5 p.m.

Revival services begin at 7 p.m. on Sunday, August 26, and continue through Friday, August 31. Rev. Matthew Trussell will be the evangelist. Special music will be presented at each service. The performers include The Mountain Top 4 on Sunday, Ralph Morris on Monday, Justin Sims and Quartet on Tuesday, Sarah Anderson on Wednesday, and The Soul Pickers on Thursday.

The church is located at 980 Walnut Grove Road, Belvidere. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Rev. Rickey Wade at 469-4648 or e-mail Jerry T. Limbaugh at jtlimbaugh@usa.net.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

The Outreach Road Show is coming to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, August 23, 2007, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.


For only $39 Per Person
(get $156 worth of resources!)

Spend action packed day (4 hours) that includes:

The Four Laws of Effective Outreach – the nation’s leading workshop on the foundation principles of effective outreach.

Law 1—Create an Identity for Outreach

Law 2—Attracting Visitors

Law 3—Connecting Newcomers
Law 4—Equipping members to be inviters

FREE samples, prizes and giveaways – prizes include FREE subscriptions, convention tickets, product coupons and more.

Interactive discussion – idea sharing and opportunities to network for outreach in your city.

5 creative outreach ideas – gathered from churches around the country – to help our church create something unique for any season.

A sneak preview at the upcoming national outreach campaigns – get a head start on planning your church’s involvement with these unique outreach opportunities – from movies, to television, to city-wide ministries.

Bring Your Team and Re-Fuel the Outreach in Your Church.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

You Heard It Here First: Blakemore Children's Center Best of Nashville Brownie Bake-Off Benefit, Sunday, July 29

1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes in adult and child categoreis!
Enter your BEST BROWNIE and HAVE LUNCH and FUN, TOO
Sunday, July 29, 11:45 a.m.

Bluegrass Music by The Blakemore Boys, and a special performance by magician Scott Tripp

To register for the Bake-off, call 292-5443 or email browniebakeoff@bellsouth.net

God’s Country Bubba Deer Fest, Saturday, August 25th, Crossville First United Methodist Church, starting at 4:30 p.m.

Featuring BBQ & Bologna, Red Neck Olympics, Hunting & Outdoor Vendors

Special guest David Hale from Knight and Hale Game Calls. David Hale and Harold Knight started a game call business in 1971 making turkey calls and waterfowl calls. David came from a Christian family and going to church was natural from childhood. He has been an adult Sunday school teacher and lay speaker for 44 years.

For more information contact Doyle McCoy at 931-335-3030, Wayne Shadden at 931-248, or the church office at 931-248-0333, or the church office at 931-484-3537

Back2School Kickoff, Crossville First United Methodist Church, August 18, 2007, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Youth event, 7th -12th grade, featuring Joseph Jennings and Jeff Streszoff as guest speakers. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. For more information or to register contact Christ Cummings, chris@crossvillefumc.com, 931-484-3537

2007 Chrysalis Golf Tournament, Deer Creek Golf Club, Crossville, Saturday, August 4th

2007 CHRYSALIS GOLF TOURNAMENT

Deer Creek Golf Club
Crossville, TN

Date: Saturday, August 4, 2007
Time: 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Start
Meal: After Tournament
Cost $60.00 each ($240.00 per team)

Meal provided, goody bags, long drive, and closest to the hole prizes, and hole in one prizes.

This is a fun tournament and the monies raised are used to support ministries directed toward youth, families, and the hungry.
Chrysalis and Chrysalis Journey
Youth Prison Ministry
Hunters for the Hungry
The Bread of Life Rescue Mission


Contact Name:
______________________________________________

Phone:___________________________________

Address:_____________________________________________

____________________________________________________

Pllayer #1:___________________________________________________

Player #2:___________________________________________________

Player #3:___________________________________________________

Player #4:___________________________________________________


**Butterfly sponsorships are appreciated and available for $100.00**


Mail application to: Chrysalis Gold Tournament
3019 Seminole Loop
Crossville, TN 38572

For more information, contact
Randy Neal, 931-788-6337
kairostorch@yahoo.com

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Cornersville United Methodist Church gets involved with the community

The Rev. Ray Hartman

Over the past year Pastor Ray Hartman, during his sermons, has
been presenting the concept of being involved with the community.
The idea is that by showing we care we can begin to build relationships
with those around us. He suggested volunteer work, delivering baked
goods to neighbors, having neighbors over for coffee, etc.

Some of the members really took this to heart as they became involved
with city government by being elected to public office. Amos Davis is now our new
Mayor, Carl Moses was elected Alderman, Melissa Peters was a write in
candidate for Alderman, and Doris Arthur had been appointed earlier to fill out
the term of an Alderman who resigned. These folks along with the other members
of the city council can now work together to solve problems and continue to
make our community a wonderful place to live.

Other projects from our church this year:
We passed out over 300 plants to everyone in Cornersville as a gift from our church.
We made 8 Mommy Baskets for the Pregnancey Resource Center.
We made up gift bags for first time visitors along with a new church brochure.
We have chartered a new Cub Scout Pack in the community.