TENNESSEE CONFERENCE REVIEW December 25, 2009

Stories in the December 25th issue of THE REVIEW

“You will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger” (Luke2:12) –two stories of local church advent/nativity celebrations–
1. Holy Land Inspires Artist to create background mural and script for McKendree UMC Christmas Dramatization.
2. "And It Came To Pass" is a unique exhibit of Nativity Scenes and Christmas Angels hosted each year by Tullahoma First UMC.
3. Sara Finger named Administrative Assistant, Nashville Area United Methodist Foundation.
4. Cabinet Announces Mid-Year Appointments.
5. United Methodist Minister Fred Cloud Receives Human Rights Award
6. Fred Cloud has dedicated his life to creation of a healthy society—Cloud responds after receiving the award.
7. Mustard Seed Grant Provides Meals for Clay County Children.
8. The True Message of Christmas by Lucy Adams
9. The Penny by the Rev. Pat Freudenthal
10. Christmas 2009 Greetings from missionary Cherie White to Supporting Churches & Friends.

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“You will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger” (Luke2:12)

Holy Land Inspires Artist to create background mural and script for McKendree UMC Christmas Dramatization

]Mary prays after her visit from the angel Gabriel

On December 13th, McKendree United Methodist Church, presented a dramatic retelling of the first Christmas in word, song, and strong visual imagery. The original drama was written by church member and artist, Buford Winfrey, who also painted a 16 foot mural of Bethlehem and made full-size animals for the Bethlehem scenes. Nancy Clymer, church member and local actress, directed the drama, and Anthony Mangin directed the Chancel Choir and soloists in Christmas arrangements.

Writer and scenic artist Buford Winfrey is seen with McKendree senior minister Stephen Handy and drama director Nancy Clymer.

Artist Winfrey has been featured in major exhibits of his works, but probably few of his works of art seem to have meant as much personally as the background mural of Bethlehem, and his retelling of the Christmas story. Prior to the December 13th presentation of the Christmas Celebration, Winfrey shared with the McKendree United Methodist Church congregation what they could expect visually from the dramatization:

Thoughts about the Christmas Celebration:

“I hope everyone can attend the presentation next Sunday at 5:00 p.m. I promise that you will have a ‘visual’ Christmas celebration.

The choir and soloists shared the Christmas story in song

“All of this began actually several years ago when my wife Patsey and I traveled to Palestine with one of our former pastors, Billy Craighead.

“There is nothing that one can see or hear about the Holy Land that can prepare you for this trip. It is not only the sights, but the sounds, smells and tastes that captivate you and cause you to feel in some way to connect with the Biblical stories that we grew up with. In the presentation, I created a large mural of Bethlehem. I could not have done it without seeing for myself the ancient war torn land on which our Savior walked.

Grandfather tells the Christmas story to his grandson

“I remember standing outside the hotel on the Mount of Olives one late evening after the sun had barely gone down over the city of Jerusalem beyond the Brook Kidron below. As I turned to the east, the town of Bethany clung to the ancient hillside bathed in a faint misty glow across the valley. Just like the town of Bethlehem to the south, I saw vineyards, olive trees, rock walls, rocks everywhere. Patches of dim lights appeared as dots on the horizon. Land scarred by centuries of wars and bloodshed. When I did my mural for the background, I could still see and feel the night air, hear the sounds of Jerusalem and smell the musty Mediterranean breeze.

The wise men and shepherds gather at the stable

“People still go there to die for it is the place where it all began; the journeys of Abraham to David and finally to our Master where he gave his life for our sins. Come see the mural and Mary and Gabriel, the shepherds with their sheep, the angels, the Wise Men from the east on the camels and finally the little child in the manger. The choir will sing the traditional carols that we all love and you will, I hope, feel the ancient land and in your heart and take a journey to Bethlehem.”




"And It Came To Pass" is a unique exhibit of Nativity Scenes and Christmas Angels hosted each year by Tullahoma First UMC

While Christmas has become a vastly secular holiday, Christians the world over rejoice at the 2000 years ago birth of a child, whom they believe to be the Christ. In an effort to capture the mystery of that holy night, the nativity scene or crèche has become an integral part of the Christians' Christmas tradition.

For six years First United Methodist Church in Tullahoma, Tennessee, has hosted an exhibit of nativity scenes and a multitude of Christmas angels. Over 500 of these keepsakes have rendered a display which has been enjoyed by hundreds of visitors from the community and surrounding areas. Bathed in candlelight, fragranced by fresh evergreens, and reverberating with the echoes of harp strings, the event is more than a mere display-it is a sensory celebration of the Christmas season. The early December event displays nativity scenes, angels, and religious art pieces owned basically by persons in the Tullahoma area—but each year the exhibit broadens and persons outside the immediate area have begun to share special nativity sets.

The items on display are all different -- some are whimsical, some crafted individually by gifted artisans, some are contemporary and others created many years ago. A special international section shows nativity scenes from different cultures around the world. One nativity scene depicts the entire community of Bethlehem with dozens of citizens spread around the community and looking skyward in great puzzlement. All items share interpretations of the story of the birth of Christ as told in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Size of the sets runs from intricate and tiny to relatively large. And depending on when persons view the display, whether from an answer to a question or overhearing comments made by others, one will soon discover that each of the nativity sets, art pieces, or Christmas angels has a history.

A small crèche, described by Jeanne Honeycutt* as “holding an impish holy family and topped with a star bobbling unpredictably on a pencil-coil wire,” has been to Pakistan and Iraq several times with two military sons in one family—reminding them of home and of the birth of the savior. The crèche, which is displayed with two miniature American flags, is about to return to the Middle East due to redeployment of one of the sons. “In a world turned upside down by evil men with evil intentions,” Honeycutt notes, “one searches for answers, for assurance, for hope. Perhaps a whimsical, miniature nativity set with a star wobbling precariously on top can point the way.”

This impish crèche has accompanied two brothers on journeys to Pakistan and Iraq.

*Quotes are from a colorful hardbound book published by Tullahoma First UMC, And It Came To Pass, which describes the exhibit in photo and word. Narratives in the book are by Jeanne Honeycutt, one of three persons compiling items for the display each year and then arranging them into a meaningful display. The other two persons are Emily Thoma and Nancy Thompson.

Various countries were represented in the International section—here is a manger scene from Nigeria.

Sara Finger named Administrative Assistant, Nashville Area United Methodist Foundation

The Nashville Area United Methodist Foundation has a new Administrative Assistant, Sara Finger. Sara works with Rev. Dr. Vin Walkup (President of the Foundation), with Tiffany Raines (Administrator of the United Methodist Development Fund of TN/KY), and with the churches and individuals who have funds at the Foundation.

Sara Finger

Sara brings a banking, customer relations, sales, and lifelong relationship with The United Methodist Church into this position. She comes to the Foundation from an area bank, having most recently been a Branch Operations Manager. Previously she has been a sales associate for a firm in Knoxville, a clerk at one of our state parks, and a bookkeeper, Personal Financial Manager for a firm in Nashville.

Sara is a graduate of Murray State University and grew up in churches in the Memphis Conference. She is the daughter of Tim and Anita Pafford; Tim is a retired local pastor in the Memphis Conference. She is married to Jarrod Finger, an architectural project manager.


Cabinet Announces Mid-Year Appointments

Bishop Dick Wills and the Tennessee Conference Cabinet have announced several mid-year pastoral appointments effective February 1, 2010. All of these are appointments to senior minister positions. They include Michael Williams from Hendersonville 1st UMC to West End UMC, Don Hutchinson from Springfield 1st to Hendersonville 1st, Fred Hembree from St. Mark’s (Murfreesboro) to Springfield 1st, Craig Goff from Cook’s UMC to St. Mark’s, Lee Stevenson from Mt. Zion to Cook’s, Patrick Woolsey from St. Andrews (Nashville) to Mt. Zion, and Noreen Adams to St. Andrews. David Adams is being appointed to the Bell Buckle Charge effective January 1.

Other recent appointments include: Joe Bowers to Santa Fe, David Rowe to Thompson Station, Michael Hillstrap to Bethel, Charla Tague to Buffalo (also serving Whitwell), Eric Richardson to Zion Hill, Larry Burke to Westmoreland, Mike & Amy Rayson to Palmyra, Patrick Martin to Cumberland Heights UMC, Stephanie Nulty to Cumberland City Chg, Michael Teston to Eno and Oak Grove, Joseph Finn to Sycamore, Charlie Overton (Deacon) to Hillcrest, Stephanie Dunn (Deacon) to Calvary, Tom Gildemeister as Director of Development and Alumni Affairs for Candler School of Theology, and Carol Cavin-Dillon as interim lead pastor for Christ UMC.


United Methodist Minister Receives Human Rights Award

Fred Cloud sits with Inez Crutchfield, another winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Human Rights.

On Thursday, Dec. 10th, in the Nashville Main Public Library there was a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The meeting was free and open to the public.

One feature of the celebration was the presentation to Rev. Fred Cloud of the "Lifetime Achievement Award for Human Rights." Cloud, a member of the Tennessee Annual Conference since 1946, served pastorates for 7 years (Nashville, Clifton. Bell Buckle, and New Providence.) In1953 he was appointed to the Editorial Division of the General Board of Education to edit curriculum for young adults, serving there for 14 years. During the time of his editorial work, he helped to develop indigenous Christian materials in Southeast Asia and the South Pacific; and he lectured at a World Conference on Curriculum in Switzerland in 1964.

In Feb., 1967, Cloud was chosen as Associate Director of the newly-formed Metro Human Relations Commission; the Executive Director for 3 years was Warren N. Moore, from Memphis. In 1970, Moore left to pursue a graduate degree, and the Commission elected Cloud to be Executive Director; he worked at this task for 20 years, 1970 to 1990, at which time he retired. During his time of service, the Commission succeeded in getting Fair Employment, Fair Housing, and Affirmative Action laws passed--the first in the State of TN.

Fred Cloud receives his award from Shirley Sims-Saldana, Compliance Services Manager of the Metro Human Relations Commission.
He and Moore also helped to start a Human Relations Commission in Chattanooga; and Cloud helped the Mayor and Council of Birmingham to pass an Affirmative Action law.

In 197l, Cloud was elected Vice President of the International Assn. of Human Rights Agencies; and in 1972 he was elected President of the National Assn. of Human Rights Workers. In this role, he secured from the Ford Foundation a grant to train human rights workers in 12 southern states.

In preparation for retirement in 1990, Cloud earned a D.Min. degree from Vanderbilt Divinity School. He then taught for 15 years at American Baptist College, 8 years at Scarritt Bennett Center, and 1 year at Vanderbilt Divinity School. For 10 years (1990-2000), he edited the JOURNAL OF INTERGROUP RELATIONS. Currently, Cloud is Chair of the TN Fair Housing Council (10 years), and Chair of the World Cultural Exchange (2 years).

Cloud has been an associate member of Edgehill United Methodist Church for 42 years, where he and his wife sing in the choir. Cloud married Barbara Dickerson from Michigan when she was at Scarritt College on furlough from missionary service in Japan. They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. The Cloud family includes two adult children Amanda Karen Cloud and David Bliss Cloud, both living in Nashville.



Fred Cloud has dedicated his life to creation of a healthy society

Editor’s Note: Fred Cloud responded to the presentation of the award with comments on why he continues, long after retirement, and with some health issues, continues to work diligently in the whole area of human rights internationally, nationally, in the State of Tennessee, and in Davidson and surrounding counties.

Fred Cloud used the TIME magazine issue entitled “Decade from Hell” to indicate why he, a clergyman who retired in 1990, is still actively involved in working for human rights

I’d like to share with our total audience what “keeps me on the case.” TIME Magazine for December 7th—just 3 days ago—printed on its cover in large type “THE DECADE FROM HELL.” They were talking about the 10 years from 2001 to 2010; and they were talking about the United States. In human terms, what constitutes HELL?

First, war is Hell.
Second, hunger is Hell.
Third, homelessness is Hell.
Fourth, having no health insurance is Hell.
Fifth, being unemployed for an extended period is Hell.
Sixth, having an inadequate education is Hell.

Persons suffering from several of these hellish conditions often slip into despair and clinical depression. Suicide rates are up in the military, in colleges, and among homeless and unemployed persons.

What is the answer? What can keep persons of goodwill “on the case” rather than slipping off into a private, hedonistic existence?

There are millions of caring Americans addressing these six major problems, these six “gateways to Hell.” They form SUPPORT GROUPS in order to make a major impact on these problems. Here is an important sample from Nashville and surrounding counties: MANNA and Second Harvest Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, The Tennessee Justice Center, The Tennessee Health Care Campaign, Tennesseans for Fair Taxation, The Tennessee Fair Housing Council, The World Cultural Exchange, Affirmation, Mountain T.O.P.

The human rights agencies in both city and state levels work diligently year-after-year to eliminate discrimination and help build a just and equitable society.

These programs and agencies built a NETWORK of caring and committed citizens, who feel mutually supported and joyful at every breakthrough toward a healthier society. That, in brief, is what “Keeps me on the case.”

Mustard Seed Grant Provides Meals for Clay County Children

During the summer of 2009 Clay County Tennessee’s only United Methodist congregations received a Mustard Seed Grant from the Tennessee Conference to help fund the purchase of food items used to provide back pack’s for elementary age children in the county. Only two United Methodist congregations remain in Clay County Tennessee; Campground UMC in the Cumberland District and Celina UMC in the Cookeville District. Because of recent work in the Five Practices Fruitful Congregations and in the area of Risk Taking Mission and Service each congregation recognized a need for mission and service to the community. Contact was made and the congregations met to discuss the idea. Both churches were aware that according to census data, the number of school age children eligible for free or reduced price lunches was greater than 55%. Everyone agreed there was a great need for feeding children during the summer season when a nutritional meal received during school may not be available. The need was thought to be greater in city limits and this thought proved to be the exact opposite. Over seventy-five families flocked to Campground UMC to participate in the back pack distribution each week while about fifteen families participated at Celina.

With the help of the laity of the local churches, community businesses, the District committees, and the Conference Mustard Seed Grant, we were able raise over $1500 toward this activity. The goal of the project was to provide a backpack with a minimum of six meals for elementary age school children. Using single serve and easy open packs, the children received nutritious breakfasts, lunches and snacks.

With the help of the Mustard Seed Grant, each church helped to make a difference for the children served. Each church enjoys a renewed sense of community and their part in it. All of us are thankful that we are a connectional body of believers with ties to our districts, our conference, and to the support and of grants like the Mustard Seed Grant. Thank you for awarding our churches a Mustard Seed Grant!


The True Message of Christmas
By Lucy Neeley Adams, from 52 Hymn Story Devotions, http://www.52hymns.com/

Walking slowly from the church, we lifted our candles high into the darkness of the night. What a beautiful sight to behold. Those little lights were a symbol of the true message of Christmas as they glowed from our church lawn. God sent the Light of the world to us thousands of years ago. So we sang with gusto , "Go Tell It On The Mountain."

"Go tell it on the mountain.
Over the hill and everywhere.
Go tell it on the mountain.
That Jesus Christ is born."

A pretty little girl with red fluffy earmuffs and long blond hair walked in front of me. She eagerly ran over to the big manger scene and called to her mother, "I hope we can always keep the baby Jesus here ‘cause I love him."

We all smiled and nodded in agreement. That simple statement had captured a much greater truth than the child understood. We know what is supposed to happen when the manger scene is packed away. We are to keep the baby Jesus in our hearts forever and continue to tell the Good News of his birth and what happened after his birth.

Therefore the beloved Christmas carol, "Go Tell It On The Mountain" is much more than a Holy birth announcement. Once we proclaim that he was born , the third verse reveals the purpose of that birth:

"Down in a lowly manger
The humble Christ was born.
And God sent us salvation
That blessed Christmas morn."

How awesome was the glory of that blessed Christmas morn! It unfolded into the earthly ministry of that tiny Baby. The powerful story of His birth continued into the powerful story of his life , crucifixion and resurrection. There is much to go and tell on the mountain and everywhere.

The first printing of this carol was in 1907. It had been originally sung by the slaves on plantations and sometimes the words and tunes varied. John W. Work, III explains those differences in his book, AMERICAN NEGRO SONGS AND SPIRITUALS (1940). The Fisk University professor of Nashville, Tn. stressed that "many of them were passed down from generation to generation, and after much singing, the texts and melodies varied from place to place. But the same gospel message was always proclaimed."

The next generation of the musically gifted Work family, John W. Work, IV, describes the very heart of the African-Americans who gave the world the eloquent spirituals. He says, "Through enduring trials and hardships and in spite of their enslavement, many of these Africans, who had been forced to come to America, knew the love of Christ. With God in their hearts, they composed and sang the inspirational and wondrous spirituals".

One of those ‘wondrous spirituals', "Go Tell It On the Mountain," became a favorite when the Fisk University Jubilee Singers included it in their world-wide concerts in the 1800's. For those of us who sing this beloved Christmas carol, the gospel message is definitely proclaimed. We are actually singing the dynamic command from God's word: "Go and make disciples of all nations...." (Matthew 28:19)

We thank God for His words to ‘go and tell' all the wonder of your purposes for Christmas. In most birthday celebrations, we focus on the one we celebrate for a short while. But with Jesus, we continue to focus on other events of his perfect life. We grow to love him more and more through his teaching, preaching and healing on earth for three years. With his crucifixion and the glory of his resurrection, we are caught up in the continued majesty of his life. The one who receives him as Lord and Savior is redeemed for eternity. We have much to go and tell on the mountain and everywhere.


The Penny
By the Rev. Pat Freudenthal, from the December CCF newsletter. Used here with permission.

In my office a lone penny is taped to a sheet of memo paper. It has been hanging my office for quite some time. It is a very special penny to me. It is not special because of its monetary value, although every penny counts at Community Care Fellowship. It is not special of its date or any markings on the penny. This penny is special because of how I received it.

One day a young girl of about 3 years of age came into CCF with her mom to eat lunch. She was a gorgeous child with big brown eyes and a lovely sweetness to her face. I greeted her and her mom, but the little girl hid behind her mother. This started our relationship.

Over the course of several months the little girl first began by smiling, then waving, and eventually she would come running up to me with arms open wide. We would talk and she would give me a big hug before jumping down from my lap and skipping off to get a meal with her mom. One day the little girl came running in, stuck out her pudgy little hand and said, “Here!” I took the gift and was humbled by her generosity. In her precious hand was a solitary penny. I tried to give it back to her but she was resolute in her choice to give to me. Her mom explained that she had found it and immediately said, “Give to Ms. Pat”.

I’ve kept the penny to remind me of the power of simple grace. In this one moment this little girl demonstrated generosity, awareness of others, and simple, straight forward love. This one penny reminds me to be a good steward of all of God’s gifts and that a simple act of kindness can stretch into a wellspring of action.

God has entrusted CCF with all kinds of pennies over the last 25 years. Some pennies have the names and faces of our guests. These pennies come into CCF worn, dented, and scared. It is our job to help these pennies to find restoration and renewal. Some pennies come to CCF as volunteers and staff. These pennies are the same as the guest pennies expect that their wounds may be better covered and their stories demonstrate different choices. Some pennies have the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse side, while others are “wheat pennies”. But, they are pennies, too, and need community and a place of service. I am grateful for all the pennies that come our way at CCF.

I am also very grateful for monetary pennies people have given over the years. It is amazing what a small donation can do for a person when it is used for the glory of God. It is amazing to see how God can change lives for just a few cents. For 39 pennies a person can have a plate of food at CCF. For 200 pennies a person is afforded a shower at CCF. No penny is misused or ignored that comes to us at CCF. All pennies are valuable to CCF!

In order for CCF to continue to affect the lives of men, women, and children, we need your pennies to carry us into the future. As we approach the end of the year, the gap between expenses and revenue has widened. All the while more and more people need our help in order to survive. Please join us in offering dignity and respect to those in need by making a contribution to Community Care Fellowship.

May the One who honored a widow who gave two copper coins shine in your hearts this holiday season.



Christmas 2009 Greetings from missionary Cherie White to Supporting Churches and Friends

What a wonderful and renewing time these 3 ½ month of church visitation have been!

It has been good to reconnect with many of you, to make new friends and see that God is at work everywhere and I am deeply grateful for your support. The news from the U.S about increased troops to the Middle East, conflicting viewpoints on health care reform and a lack of reform in immigration laws is very discouraging to us in Latin America. To see that many of you in the U.S. are concerned from a Christian standpoint is encouraging.

Cherie White, a Board of Global Ministries missionary supported by churches in the Tennessee Conference, meets with CCOM Director Loyd Mabry while on her visitation trip from Mexico City.


In these months of visitation I have shared about the Mexican reality and the Methodist Seminary where I serve in Mexico City. Mexico is a beautiful and very diverse country culturally, linguistically geographically, in terms of biodiversity, and many other aspects. Yet, at the present time we are experiencing a violent drug war, epidemic levels of violence towards women, and a 60% poverty level that expels people to the U.S. for job reasons. Justice is a key word for economic, political and gender reasons.

Hence, the words of the prophet Isaiah 32:17 are important reminders of God’s call to us as we remember the coming of the Prince of Peace: And the effect of justice will be peace, and the result of justice, quietness and trust for ever.

I am not first to say it, but how true that there can be no peace, unless there is justice for all, and once again Isaiah’s words are my vision for a reality which I hope is not too far away: They shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.

My vision for the future Methodist ministers that will come forth from our seminary is that they be God’s presence in the world guiding their churches beyond their four walls, making theirs the words of the prophets, which are exemplified and fulfilled in Jesus’ ministry. As Jesus came to show us the meaning of being the Prince of Peace, we too must follow by our example through words and deeds.

May this Christmas and the New Year be ones of joy, health, challenges, and awareness of the world around the corner and way beyond. May you creatively carry out acts of justice, so that peace on earth can lead to goodwill for all of God’s people.

Peace with justice
Cherie R. White
Apartado 20-392
01001 Mexico, D.F.
Mexico
E-mail: velwhite@gmail.com

The Dr. Gonzalo Baez Camargo Seminary of The Methodist Church of Mexico where I serve has two Advances approved by the General Board of Global Ministries, which cover critical needs for us:
Baez Camargo Seminary Scholarships Advance # 10528B
Baez Camargo Seminary Advance # 3020734 (for books for the library & to update the computer lab)


I know the economic situation in the U.S. is difficult at this time, but these are ways to further support the preparation of ministers for the church in Mexico.


Thank you,
Cherie R. White, GBGM Missionary Code # 05068Z

TENNESSEE CONFERENCE REVIEW December 11, 2009

Articles in the December 11th issue of THE REVIEW

1. Advent: “There Will Be Signs . . . a meditation by Loyd Mabry based on“ Luke 21: 25-36”
2. Town of Bethlehem Speaks at City Road Chapel UMC in Madison
3. Warm someone with your heart this Christmas—Seven-year –old girl collects coats for the homeless
4. Donelson Christian Academy Provides Needed Support for Community Care Fellowship
5. “4 the People” Extends Helping Hand in Time of Need—A group of lay people combine their gifts and passion to reach out to fellow church members and the community in a time of economic uncertainty and lay-offs.
6. Annual Homecoming Fish Fry strongly promotes Tennessee State University Wesley Foundation
7. Murfreesboro/Cookeville District Youth Lay Speaking Retreat
8. Hear – Discern – Respond – Go, Exploration 2009, Nov. 13-15, Dallas, Texas—18 Martin Methodist College students attend
9. “Lunch and Learn” Highlights Local Church Applications of Windows 7
10. Two new books by Tennessee Conference authors—Rita Hays and Terry Carty prepare books crucial for this decade.

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Advent: “There Will Be Signs . . .” Luke 21:25-36

Advent begins a time of preparation, a new church year, an opportunity to refocus on what really matters in life. The Gospel lectionary passage for the First Sunday of Advent reminds us that there will be signs all around us. Currently, the signs of the economy are mixed. Some are positive and many are negative. Some signs warn us while others prepare us for what is ahead. Some guide and some inform. Signs are all around us. The question is how do we interpret these signs?

Advent begins with the end in mind. Advent affirms and proclaims who controls history. Advent offers us the assurance that God is active in our midst. In the midst of the multitude of signage, the Gospel of Luke proclaims that we should stand up and raise our heads. Our redemption is drawing near. We are told to be alert and on guard. Look for God’s activity. We are called to pray for strength to escape all the things that will take place and be prepared to stand before the Son of Man.

Our past, our present, and our future are held together by God’s gracious activity. We need not fear. There is a future that is under God’s control. Yes, the signs we see may look like a bleak mid-winter but spring is coming. The celebration of the birth of Jesus stands as an everlasting sign that God is in control. There is reason to hope.

In the midst of the uncertainty of the present let us not lose sight of the future. There is reason to rejoice. There is reason for hope. Immanuel, God is with us!

In Christ’s love,
Loyd Mabry



Town of Bethlehem Speaks at City Road Chapel UMC in Madison

Rev. Ray Newell portrayed the city of Bethlehem as a hooded figure with a veiled face. Photo by James Fullerton

The First Sunday in Advent, City Road Chapel UMC had a special guest--the Spirit of Bethlehem, portrayed by City Road’s pastor, Rev. Ray Newell. “Being a whole town was a bit of a stretch over the biblical individuals I’ve portrayed in the past, but it was fun,” Newell reported. “I’ve found these dramatizations help people gain a new perspective on the Bible. Its characters become more real and personal.”

As children completed the “Hanging of the Greens” and seasonal hymns were sung, Rev. Newell slipped out. Shortly, returning in his place, came a figure clad in a hooded robe, his face obscured by a golden veil. The apparition spoke to the congregation: “I am the spirit of Bethlehem. I seldom reveal myself to you sons and daughters of Adam. Your lives are so short.”

Bethlehem told of its rich history, spanning 12,000 years. Its importance in the Bible began with the patriarch Israel burying his beloved Rachel there. Bethlehem remembered Boaz’s redemption of Ruth, which led to David’s birth. David’s young life, the dents his sling stones gave to the walls of the town, how he took his stand between his flock and any threat, and his leaving town to fight with Saul were all recounted. Bethlehem sadly told how David forsook Bethlehem for Jerusalem when he became king. Only Micah’s prophecy that the true king would be born in it gave Bethlehem hope. But then the Babylonians destroyed it. “How could a new anointed king ever be born in the midst of these empty streets?” Bethlehem cried. “I would have to be raised from the dead to new life for the promise to come true.”

Church member Randy Chance enjoys the service with his grandson, Easton Hurley. Photo by James Fullerton


The congregation learned that life did come again as the exiles returned. Bethlehem waited for centuries for God’s promise to come true. Now it was filled with life as people poured in for the census. Newell’s ‘Bethlehem’ recognized Joseph walking toward it, with a very pregnant young woman at his side. “From the strained look on her face, I would say she’ll give birth tonight. You kind of learn these things after a few thousand years,” he pondered as they find shelter in a cave stable. “With each new child born within me,” Bethlehem confided, “I always find hope for the future.” With light shining from above and the angels singing, Bethlehem dared to believe, “Maybe this baby boy will be the one to fulfill all our hopes for life.”

Following the service, many young people of the congregation reacted generously with “Cool” and “Awesome” to this different kind of sermon. One member, Jean Irwin, said that some of her friends came just to hear this presentation. Jim Havron, another member, commented, “The role of Bethlehem served as a wonderful metaphor for Christ’s life—the need for sacrifice and renewal.” Not everyone felt comfortable with the unconventional service, but most affirmed that this was “a wonderful way to start Advent.”

City Road Chapel, located at the corner of Gallatin Road and Neely’s Bend in Madison, worships at 8:00 and 10:00 Sunday mornings. For more information about the church, please visit cityroadchapel.org.



Warm someone with your heart this Christmas
By Sandy Baxter

A very happy Gracie Bryan

I love writing good news stories. Children have the biggest hearts, they are not yet jaded by the world and only want to do what is right. Such is the story below. This is the story of a seven year old girl in our community by the name of Gracie Bryan who decided that she wanted a way to….. in her own words…. “Warm somebody with your heart”. Thus, she came up with the idea of collecting coats to be taken to the homeless at the Rescue Mission in Nashville. Friends and family including her church family brought coats to the Triune United Methodist Church and they were delivered to the Rescue Mission before Thanksgiving. Thirty-nine coats were collected. You don’t have to be rich or powerful to make a difference and you don’t even have to be an adult. Oh, if we all could keep the kind and gentle hearts and minds of children as we grow older. Bless you Gracie and now we all know that you have a big warm heart. The story really does not end here. Gracie could not have literally done this alone. It would be hard for a seven year old to ask this of the church, so she asked through her Mother. She is definitely smart for her age, but she does not have a drivers license yet. So it took the agreement of the parents, and the church to make this happen when some good people, ready and willing to help, make a little girl’s dream come true. The ideas of children are often our best. Gracie is the daughter of Rhett and Amy Bryan, Arrington, Tennessee.


Donelson Christian Academy Provides Needed Thanksgiving Support for Community Care Fellowship

Waiting to greet our families: front row Elizabeth Garapic (girl in white shirt and hat); (second row) Jessica Patino (After School director), Nathan Hunter (DCA student), Tara Holt (After School teacher), Rebecca Garapic (parent), Andrew Hunter (DCA student), and Lalia Click (DCA teacher and member of the CCF Board of Directors).

At about 1:15 pm on Friday, November 20, a bus and a pick-up truck from Donelson Christian Academy pulled into the parking lot of Community Care Fellowship. Inside the bus besides the faculty and students were 75 Thanksgiving food boxes, boxes of canned goods. The truck was loaded with frozen turkeys.

DCA student Nathan Hunter assists Daniel Mumaw, Nancy Webb Kelly member, to car with food boxes. Daniel was providing a Thanksgiving meal for 12 homeless people on November 26.


The families of DCA had held their annual food drive and Community Care Fellowship was the recipient of their efforts. Each food box had the complete fixings for a Thanksgiving meal for four people. The food boxes were distributed to families of Nancy Webb Kelly UMC, the Dare to Dream After School program, and others in the neighborhood. The additional food was given to CCF to help with its ministry of feeding the homeless and nearly homeless.

DCA student Katie Garapic and After School Director Jessica Patino helps Kemp Bailey load Nancy Webb Kelly member Pearl Washington’s car with food boxes.






“4 the People” Extends Helping Hand in Time of Need
By Carol Bumbalough*
A group of lay people combine their gifts and passions to reach out to fellow church members and the community in a time of economic uncertainty and lay-offs.

Career Transitions Support Group has been meeting at Brentwood UMC for many years – helping individuals sharpen job-seeking skills and providing support during a vulnerable time. Since this past fall when our nation’s economy plummeted, Career Transitions has proven its worth to the hundreds of jobseekers who have come looking for help. Although they attend for job-related help, what they find when they arrive are caring people who offer help in many other ways – thanks to the efforts of a group of laypeople who came together to consolidate the many avenues of help our church is already providing in a ministry they call “4 the People.”

“4 the People” Volunteers and staff person Kaye Harvey. Bottom row from left: Rev. Kaye Harvey, Lonnie Liston, Buddy Benedict; Second row: Sean Anderson, Mike Davis, Tom Gillem; Back row: Rev. Wynn Batson, Joe Tiratto, Hal Bumbalough


“We got started with the idea of helping those in the Career Transition Support Group with their struggle of job loss,” said Sean Anderson, one of the leaders of “4 the People.” “The idea blossomed after two friends were discussing the possibility of sharing a meal with a family who may be in need due to an extended job loss and job search. From there, many volunteers stepped forward to bring together the information for the “Tools for Tough Times” list.”

“Tools for Tough Times” is a readily-accessible resource which details opportunities for support currently offered by various groups within the church ranging from spiritual support (pastors and Stephen Ministers) to emergency financial and food assistance through our Missions & Outreach Department. The list has even been expanded to include a list of “ReadyResources” detailing all support agencies within our area that can be accessed confidentially via the www.bumc.net website.

“When one door closes, a window opens,” remarked Anderson. “And for some people, this is the window. God tells us to ‘not grow weary in doing what is right.’ Our hands are God’s hands used for each other and in God’s name.”

Anderson finds that being involved in “4 the People” has allowed him to see Christ reaching out through others. “The opportunity to serve God is a privilege – the opportunity to serve others is a responsibility. I’m blessed to be a part of this project and offer my ability to serve him, but also humbled by watching others give tirelessly of themselves for the benefit of someone in need.”

“4 the People” has helped many people through financial assistance, food, job placement and spiritual counseling. But what Anderson finds most amazing is watching God’s people come together for a common purpose and utilizing their spiritual gifts – whatever they may be. “The pastors are pastoring, the Stephen Ministers are ministering, the Andrew Ministers are welcoming,” he said. “Job coaches are teaching, leaders are leading, and others are using their gift of giving. When people use their spiritual gifts in a way that God needs, it not only fulfills the needs of the recipient but it also fulfills God’s desire that his children use the gifts they are given.”

To find out more about “4 the People” – how you can volunteer your gifts or how you can access the resources -- go to www.bumc.net and click on “Tools for Tough Times.”

*Carol Bumbalough is Assistant to the Executive Pastor, Brentwood United Methodist Church


Annual Homecoming Fish Fry strongly promotes Tennessee State University Wesley Foundation

Cedric Foley, Fish Fry Organizer takes a moment to pose with Newtonia Coleman, fellow board member

The Wesley Foundation at Tennessee State University celebrated Homecoming on Saturday, November 7th, with their Annual Fish Fry. Over 800 people purchased the delicious food which included fish sandwiches, hot dogs, and beverages—all of which had been prepared by a team of dedicated volunteers. Cedric Foley, chair of Finance for the Wesley Foundation Board and organizer of the Fish Fry, noted that 130 pounds of fish had been purchased for the event and all of it sold out by the end of festivities as did the hot dogs and drinks.

Wesley Foundation students Marcus Maclin and James Henderson working alongside another volunteer to erect the Fish Fry tent.


The Fish Fry demonstrated the hospitality and safe haven offered year 'round at the Wesley Foundation. TSU alumni, faculty, and students were invited in to show how the United Methodist Church provides for spiritual growth and development on the university campus.

Batter up! Rev. Shirley Renee Franklin prepares the fish for frying

Though dedicated Board members and friends prepared and served the food, an equally dedicated group of Wesley Foundation students served as hosts. Wesley Foundation students also were stationed on the Wesley Foundation float in the TSU Homecoming Parade and passed out fliers telling about the Wesley Foundation. At the end of the day both Board members and Wesley Foundation students were pleased with the results of their labors – definitely a day well spent.


Murfreesboro/Cookeville District Youth Lay Speaking Retreat

Participants at the Lay Speaking Retreat

Beersheba Springs Assembly was the perfect setting for the first Murfreesboro/Cookeville District Youth Lay Speaking Retreat. Presenters for the weekend were Conference Youth Director Brad Fiscus, Certified Lay Speakers Krislyn Durham and Tom Wright (Coordinator of Lay Speaker Training, Murfreesboro District), Ann Benson, Murfreesboro District Director of Lay Speaking Ministries, and Holly Neal, Cookeville District Director of Lay Speaking Ministries. The Spiritual Director for the weekend was Rev. Bryan Brooks with Worship leader Bob Brown and Crossville First UMC youth praise band Alpha and Omega. Delicious meals were lovingly prepared by Tracie Bennett and Mary Ann Rumley. Offering encouragement to participants during the weekend were Cookeville District Superintendent Jay Archer, Cookeville District Youth Coordinator Roger Brown, and Conference Associate Lay Speaking Director Betty Jo Forkner.

Outdoor meditation and discussion could be a bit chilly

Sixteen youth and two adults from the Cookeville District and thirteen youth from the Murfreesboro District became Local Church Lay Speakers while two youth and one adult who were already Local Church Lay Speakers became Certified Lay Speakers.

The weekend was a blessing to all that participated and plans are underway for another joint venture for next year.



Hear – Discern – Respond – Go, Exploration 2009, Nov. 13-15, Dallas, Texas
Submitted by the Rev. Laura Kirkpatrick, Martin Methodist College Campus Minister

Back Row (left to right): Alex Abernathy – First UMC Pulaski, Amy Novakoski – Virginia Conference, Uziel Hernandez – Lafayette Hispanic Fellowship, Claudet Hernandez – Smithville Hispanic Fellowship, Yesenia Perez – Memphis Conference, Karen De La Paz – Memphis Conference, Liliana Hernandez – Smithville Hispanic Fellowship, Courtney Lancaster – North Alabama Conference, Sarah Eighmy – Dickson First UMC; Middle Row: Ashlee Kirkendall – North Alabama Conference, Katie Dobbins – North Alabama Conference, Philip Galyon – Holston Conference, Jessica Martin – Chapel Hill UMC/Cumberland, Ricardo Hernandez – Lafayette Hispanic Fellowship, Kevin Crawford – Christ UMC, Josiah Po’e – Belmont UMC; Front Row: Cedrick Nkulu – Democratic Republic of Congo UMC, Carlos Santos – Lafayette Hispanic Fellowship. Not pictured: Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Brad Fiscus, Rev. John Purdue, Rev. Laura Kirkpatrick. Photo by Joaquin Garcia.

“Exploration Bound” was the theme as 18 Martin Methodist College Students, from 4 countries and 6 Annual Conferences departed campus on Thursday, Nov. 12. The students were led by Rev. Joaquin Garcia – Tennessee Conference Director of the Hispanic/Latino Academy, Rev. Laura Kirkpatrick – MMC Campus Minister, Brad Fiscus – Director of Tennessee Conference Youth and Young Adult Ministries, and Rev. John Purdue – pastor of Smithville UMC. After a few bumps at the start, the crew of 22 safely traveled to Dallas, Texas, for Exploration ’09, sponsored by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

Upon arrival, students met new friends, worshipped with more than 800 other Explorers, and participated in small groups, led by first-year seminary students following the Exploration theme of Hear-Discern-Respond-Go. On Saturday, the students attended workshops such as, “How Do I know I am Called?”, “What Does It Mean to be a Deacon?”, “What Does It Mean to be an Elder?”, and “Getting Involved in Cross-Cultural Ministries”. Students also conversed with representatives from the 13 United Methodist Seminaries, as well as representatives from the General Board of Global Ministries and General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

Worship was an important part of Exploration 2009. (Right to Left) Kevin Crawford, Josiah Po’e, Alex Abernathy, Katie Dobbins, Philip Galyon. Photo by Joaquin Garcia.

As we made the 13-hour trip back to Pulaski, several of the students reflected on the trip, and here are some of their responses:
Exploration ’09 Responses

• Kevin Crawford – Senior from Christ UMC: “I ended up not defining my calling but defining my beliefs on calling and arrived to the conclusion that God gave us the gift of life to choose what we want to do [as we] make disciples and to love God, our neighbor, and ourselves.”

• Amy Novakoski – Senior from the Virginia Conference starting at Garrett-Evangelical Theological in January: “Attending Exploration allowed me to better understand the opportunities available in ministry. I also enjoyed meeting others who will be colleagues in ministry.”

• Carlos Santos – First Year from the Lafayette Hispanic Fellowship: “It was a good experience, and I have learned that there are lots of opportunities to serve God through the UMC.”

• Liliana Hernandez – First Year from the Smithville Hispanic Fellowship: “I learned there are so many ways in which you can help others and preach the word of God!”

• Cedrick Nkulu – First Year from the Congo: “I saw the Mississippi River; I saw Dallas; I even met someone from my hometown in Congo! I love the United Methodist Church!”

• Courtney Lancaster – Junior from the North Alabama Conference: “My small group was great…It was good to meet people more like me…Worship was refreshing and beautiful. I loved learning about the General Board o of Global Ministries. I was very interested in hearing about their opportunities.”

• Uziel Hernandez – Junior from the Chapel Hill Hispanic Fellowship: “I had a great time at Exploration. I met very interesting people, and it was a lot of fun! I learned many things and being there confirmed the path I am following for ministry. Thanks be to God for everything!”

• Karen De La Paz – First Year from the Memphis Conference: “…I have gained …a better understanding of what the “call” is... I have also learned more about God, and the will to follow wherever I am needed.”

• Yesenia Perez – Senior from the Memphis Conference: “All I can say is that it was an amazing experience! It opened my eyes to see that there are so many ways in which we can serve God. I am so thankful I got the opportunity to attend Exploration because I met so many wonderful people.”

• Claudet Hernandez – Junior from the Smithville Hispanic Fellowship: “At the beginning of this trip, I thought, ‘God is going to tell me what my calling is.’ The truth is, God did not specifically tell me what my calling is, but he let me know I can do so many things and ‘I can do it through him’, Philippians 4:13. I also learned I don’t need to be ordained in order to serve God. This weekend really opened my eyes to see the many different ways in which I can serve and glorify God. As youth we are often told ‘we are the leaders of tomorrow,’ but I learned ‘we are the leaders of today’ and that we can start serving God in our everyday life by simply giving a good testimony, sharing the change God has made in our lives. The worship and workshops were amazing, and I got to hear a diversity of worship songs!”

Several students also commented that Exploration helped them clarify their call either to ordained or lay ministry. Of the 18 Martin Methodist College students participating, six students are absolutely certain they are called to ordained ministry. While others are still discerning their call and vocation, all of the students are returning knowing they have the opportunity to “continue the ministry of Christ for the transformation of the World” in everyday life.

As we return, we are extremely grateful to those who helped make this trip possible. These people include:

+ The generous scholarships from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for Exploration,
+ West End UMC and Edgehill UMC for sharing their vans,
+ Sharp Motor Company, of Pulaski, for assisting us with a last minute van,
+ The financial support of the Connectional Ministries of the Tennessee Conference and the Cal Turner, Jr. Center for Church Leadership at Martin Methodist College,
+ Mark Hagewood, MMC Faculty and Exploration Design Team Member, who encouraged several students to attend, and provided a tremendous worship experience, as well as
+ Our drivers – Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Brad Fiscus, and Rev. John Purdue.

Thank you, each of you, for showing our students the blessings of “connectional ministry”!


“Lunch and Learn” Highlights Local Church Applications of Windows 7

Microsoft “Windows7” is the newest operating system, released in October of 2009, for many computers in local United Methodist Churches.

After lunch and informal conversation the workshop participants listened to an explanation of why Windows 7 is a vast improvement over previous Windows operating systems.



The all new Windows 7 contains many improved capabilities required to help church offices work effectively and know that information on the computer is protected.

On November 17, 2009, Information Systems of the Conference Council on Connectional Ministries had its first workshop to help local churches make the best use of newest technology. “Lunch and Learn for Secretaries and Pastors,” held at the Tennessee Conference Center, focused on Windows 7 and led participants to understand the features of Windows 7, how to obtain the program inexpensively, and how to use the program even on older computers. To make a point computer presentations during the overview were using Windows 7 which had been installed onto a computer that was over 10 years old.

Questions from participants were an important part of the workshop.

The workshop was co-sponsored by: the Tennessee Annual Conference and New Horizons Computer Learning Centers

Presentations were made by Bill Freeman, Daniel Mills, and Johnathan Rose.

“And the winner of the next $500 scholarship is . . .” Bill Freeman holds a basket filled with registrant’s names as the next winner is selected.

After presentations by leadership, persons were invited to ask questions – and after the question and answer period responded to all questions and concerns, participants were invited to actually sit down at one of six computers set up for the event and actually try the new program. A drawing of names resulted in four different people being awarded $500 scholarships for application training of their choice in events held at the New Horizons Computer Learning Center in Nashville

At the end of the workshops individuals could sit down at a computer and try out Windows 7

Johnathan Rose was available to help tutor anyone needing an explanation of Windows 7 operation. Here he assists the Rev. Judi Hoffman.



Skip Armistead, pastor at Hilldale United Methodist Church, and a former Director of the Conference Council on Ministries, was enthusiastic about the workshop. “This was a quality presentation of practical information that we can use to enhance local church ministry.” “This type of experience,” noted Armistead is a good way apportionments can provide training to enhance the ministry of every local church.”



Two new books by Tennessee Conference authors

Two members of the Tennessee Conference have recently had books published that are already assisting local congregations in ministry to children, families, and youth.

Rita B. Hays, Deacon and Associate Pastor at Connell Memorial United Methodist Church, has shared important insights in her book The Most Important Space in the Church (The Nursery). The 2009 release was published by Discipleship Resources.

Terry B. Carty, Elder in the Conference and Director of the National Youth Workers Movement, is co-author of the new Abingdon book, Five Practices of Fruitful Youth Ministry (A Youth Leader’s Guide), with Missouri Conference Bishop Robert Schnase, bestselling author of Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations.

The Most Important Space in the Church (The Nursery)

Many books have been written on the ways to help your nursery become a safe and excellent environment . . . This book will move us beyond these issues to affirm the ways the nursery can model for the entire congregation some of the church’s most important tasks.

A strong children's ministry is the foundation for the future vitality of any church — whether it's a small family community or a robust neighborhood church. In The Most Important Space in the Church, Rita Hays emphasizes that evangelism and spiritual formation begin in the nursery. It's there that many visitors first interact with church members and experience an outpouring of warmth and acceptance — known as radical hospitality.

Building a rich, spiritually rooted ministry with children and their families creates a faith formation pattern that lasts beyond nursery days.

Hays presents both theological groundwork and practical applications for strengthening any church's ministry, beginning in the most important space — the nursery.


Five Practices of Fruitful Youth Ministry (A Youth Leader’s Guide)

The Five Practices are the fundamental activities that are so critical for the formation and growth of all faith communities, including youth ministries, that failure to perform them in an exemplary way leads to decline. Inviting and welcoming others, prayer and worship, Bible study and learning the faith, serving others, and giving back—these are essential elements for youth leaders to teach, model, and develop.

Ten ready-to-use sessions teach the fundamentals of Christian living. Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-Taking Mission, and Extravagant Generosity—these five practices, designed to shape both heart and mind, will help youth grow in their discipleship as they transform the world.

The Most Important Space in the Church, The Nursery is available through Discipleship Resources, P.O. Box 340003, Nashville, TN 37203-0003, www.discipleshipresources.org. The paperback sells for $14.00, ten or more copies $11.90 each. Five Practices of Fruitful Youth Ministry is available from Cokesbury, retail price is $7.00.