TENNESSEE CONFERENCE REVIEW June 11, 2010
Index to articles in the June 11th REVIEW
1. Franklin First UMC and the TOTALLY Unexpected Day,
2. McKendree Village and Hermitage UMC work together to host UMVIM teams
3. Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors(JfON) worker, Katherine Dix-Esquivel, wins award,
4. Inaugural Certified Lay Minister Academy proves to be Spirit-led event
5. Father-son partnership reveals amazing lessons in love, faith,
6. Four Given Ingram Scholarship Awards on May 16, 2010
7. .Bless Be the Tie That Binds
8. Justice for Our Neighbors is a Gift: A UMC.org commentary by Kathryn Spry
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Franklin First UMC and the TOTALLY Unexpected Day
By Brooke Rainey
Franklin First United Methodist Church had a unique experience when the worst flood in the community’s history coincided with their May 2 Commitment Sunday worship service at The Factory in Franklin, TN. The church had been planning for many months to hold this special service as part of their commitment to a new capital campaign: God’s Vision, our Future. On the morning of May 2nd, all plans literally began changing as the flood water rose.
The Franklin First Family Mission Team cancelled a trip to Biloxi, Mississippi, to care for flood damaged homes in Franklin.
Worship was held but the focus changed. In the midst of this disaster the church rerouted a catered breakfast meal to the local Red Cross shelter where over 250 people had been placed after evacuation from their homes. The message from Dr. Lynn Hill changed to the response Jesus would expect from all of us: love one another as you have been loved. The church rallied around its membership via Facebook, Twitter, the website and with the 250 people who braved the waters and showed up for worship.
The process of cleaning and drying a flooded home was time consuming
Franklin First senior pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lynn Hill, reflected on the May 2nd experience; “Starting back in September of 2009 we began planning for a historical worship service at Franklin First United Methodist Church to celebrate our Commitment Sunday for our Imagine: God’s Vision, Our Future campaign for the development of our North Campus facilities. Little did we realize just how historic that day would turn out to be with flooding considered to be the 100 year, the 500 year, and perhaps even the millennial flood. All of the months of preparation, design, and coordination had to immediately be changed. The focus was not to be on the financial goals of new campus development, but on loving and serving people in critical need. This service was indeed historic as it became the launching of a response from Franklin First United Methodist Church to be in ministry in incredible ways. We were reminded that we were to love others as Jesus loves us. In some amazing ways, that is what the faith community at FUMC did and continues to do.”
There seemed to be an endless supply of refuse from flooded homes—here Rachel Luna fills a garbage container.
For the persons that braved the flooding to attend the worship service at The Factory, things became even more dramatic than Hill realized at the time. Church member Vicki Sharber tells what happened from her vantage point in the congregation: “At the end of Lynn Hill’s moving sermon about responding to and loving our neighbors as Jesus would want us to respond, an unexpected occurrence took place before Lynn could conclude the service.”
Tom Overstreet and Ben Johnson at work on a flooded home.
“We could hear the rain begin to fall on the tin roof and the lightning and thunder flashed and popped as Lynn stood before the congregation getting ready give the benediction. Suddenly, water began to gush up out of the floor and that ended our service. People began to pick up their wet feet and dash to drier ground. I thought it to be God giving an ‘Amen’ to Lynn’s sermon and warning us to heed the call. To this day Franklin First certainly has responded to the community.”
More to clean.
Angela Overstreet, a dedicated lay person, took the lead from her home computer and began collecting names of those in need of help and those who were willing to lend a hand. That was Day One.
As this issue of THE REVIEW goes to press the following summary of the congregation’s efforts includes:
• 33 homes clean up completed with 3 still in progress (as of Jun 1)
• 18 others we consulted on
• Total 54 homes entered or assisted
• Over 220 volunteers have emerged from the church to respond to the needs
• Passed out information on FEMA and Flood safety
• Hard Bargain community effort assistance
• Red Cross (providing food for their shelter)
• Flood collection for Centerville, TN
• 61st Ave. UMC – working in the neighborhood; sorting supplies; communication
• We collected furniture and delivered trailers full of supplies for 61st Ave neighbors in their temporary FEMA locations
• 50-70 lunches 3 times/week for work teams. Then daily during the Family Mission Team. Today the lunch team is on standby to prepare and deliver as needed.
• General contact/communication with outside people
• Collaboration with other teams coming into area. Lots of people coming in.
Planning the work for the day
As she continues to lead the response of the Franklin First UMC congregation, Emergency Response Team (ERT) leader Angela Overstreet comments on the response of her fellow church members: “It is only through being faithful, studying and staying in the Word and making a commitment to prayer were we ever able to accomplish all that He has given us to do. God gets all the glory here. The only reason we knew how to respond was because of the faith development that has been happening in our church. It is our blessing and honor to serve.”
Pastor Paul Slentz of Sixty First Avenue UMC – Franklin First did volunteer work in the hard hit area near Sixty First Avenue UMC
A group from the church, the Franklin First Family Mission Team, was scheduled to go to Biloxi, Mississippi, during the last part of May but chose to stay home and work on the homes of two church members in a local neighborhood. Parents and their kids of all ages, plus singles and others, dropped in just to help for the day which showed great love for their church family. Floors were replaced, paint was carefully brushed, and flowers were planted which returned gardens to their former beauty. The church’s Associate Pastor, Vona Wilson, reflected on the situation. “God keeps blessing us with opportunity to help and we are deeply grateful. This is transforming our church family.”
Cleaning surfaces that have held flood waters is a priority—here Carson Stafford and Andrew Hill give the surface a good scrubbing.
As this issue of THE REVIEW goes to press, Franklin First is planning and organizing for long-term recovery. They already had a June 12th Early Response Team training scheduled and expect to have many more in the future.
Flood cleanup in the steamy heat of the day was tiring—here, a group of very tired teens.
Children from First UMC decorated bags for food to be handed out
McKendree Village and Hermitage UMC work together to host UMVIM teams
The thirteen rooms for volunteers are on the first floor, North Wing of the Health Center which was a skilled nursing unit for long-term care. Hermitage UMC remodeled one room in the Volunteer in Mission center as a station where wireless use of computers would be possible.
McKendree Village, in cooperation with Hermitage UMC, is opening a section of its unused space to house UMCOR and UMVIM teams who are coming to the Nashville area to assist with flood relief work. Rev. Alan Black, senior pastor at Hermitage UMC, along with Todd Moore, executive director of McKendree Village, are working together to help persons affected by the flood.
Teams of workers from Hermitage United Methodist Church keep the sleeping rooms clean and supplied with fresh linens. They also provide notepads for the workers, hand sanitizer, toiletries, maps and brochures to help visitors find their way around Nashville and surrounding area.
Hermitage UMC is acting as host congregation, with members working to prepare part of the Health Center wing to lodge 26 flood relief team members in thirteen rooms. A fresh cleaning, making beds, and creating a hospitality room have been part of the church’s service. Hermitage UMC is also helping to provide meals and other supplies as needed.
McKendree Village is excited to be able to offer a portion of its campus for outreach and ministry to the community and to those who are called to serve in our flood-affected neighborhoods. As part of its heritage, McKendree Village is committed to the ongoing work of Christ in the world and welcomes this new opportunity to fulfill that calling.
Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors(JfON) worker, Katherine Dix-Esquivel, wins statewide award
On Friday, May 22nd, Katherine Dix-Esquivel was awarded a 2010 Long-Haul Award by the Tennessee Alliance for Progress. TAP's annual Long Haul awards salute the achievements of outstanding people who work for social, economic and environmental justice in Tennessee.
Katherine Dix-Esquivel receives a 2010 Long-Haul Award from Mark Burnett, Chair of the Board of Tennessee Alliance for Progress
Dix-Esquivel is a volunteer lawyer for Justice for Our Neighbor Program (an advance special of the Tennessee Annual Conference). Justice for Our Neighbors is a faith-driven ministry, welcoming immigrants into our churches and communities by providing free, high-quality immigration legal services, education and advocacy. The ministry was created in response to increasingly complex immigration regulations.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) initiated the program in 1999. Today there are more than 20 JFON programs operating nationwide. Our program in Tennessee began in April 2008.
When Katherine Dix-Esquivel was nominated for the Long-Haul Award it was noted that “Katherine is an attorney, guided by her faith and her commitment to social justice -- she directs the Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors office (under the umbrella of Belmont United Methodist Church) -- providing free legal counsel to immigrants, serving as a mentor to many, going about her work with cheerful passion and enviable earnestness. Never one to take herself too seriously, though the work itself maybe serious, Katherine generously gives of her time and talent, often crediting others for work done.”
Liz Shadbolt, Chairperson of the JfON Board, feels that “Katherine Dix-Esquivel is a major powerhouse behind all that JfON does in Nashville. Thanks to efforts like Katherine’s, we are making a difference in many lives in our community.”
The mission of JFON is four-fold: to provide high quality immigration legal services, to create an atmosphere of welcome for immigrants, to educate others around the issue of immigration, and to advocate for lasting policy change on both a local and federal level.
While in most communities, the monthly legal services clinic serves as the anchor for the JFON project - it is, in fact, the most visible and tangible manifestation of the ministry - it's important to keep in mind that the JFON mission goes beyond improving the wellbeing of individual clients and families to encompass creating a welcoming and supportive community and achieving social justice.
Tennessee Alliance for Progress (TAP) is a think/act tank with a mission to create healthy families and communities in Tennessee. TAP believes in true political and economic democracy, that people should participate in decisions that affect their lives.TAP believes that we need to articulate a hopeful vision for the future based on the idea that we are all in it together, not that we’re all on our own and we’re all out for ourselves. For further information about TAP or to make donations go to the TAP website: http://www.taptn.org/
Inaugural Certified Lay Minister Academy proves to be Spirit-led event
Front lower, left to right: Amanda Diamond, Carol Ann Richardson (New Union UMC), Nita Heilman (St. Bethlehem UMC), Deborah Gregory (St. Bethlehem UMC), David Grace (Bell Buckle UMC).
Second row: left to right: Mary Noble Parish, Dale Wells (Donelson Heights UMC), Gloria Watts-Jones (Columbia First UMC), Beverly Dycus (Wilee’s Chapel UMC), Betty Ann Meriwether (St. Bethlehem UMC), Bud Whipple (Hillcrest UMC), Ruthan Patient (Concord UMC).
Back row: left to right: Susan Padgett, Pat Mathews (Glenwood UMC), Merrily Walters (Gideon UMC), Opal Ransom (Gordon Memorial UMC), Steve Fisher (Epworth UMC), Michael West (Hickory Point UMC), Bill Dowell (Saundersville UMC), Jim Melrose (Bethlehem UMC), James Marks (St. Luke UMC), Erik Augustson (Salem UMC), and James Brewer (Linden First UMC).
The inaugural class for the Certified Lay Minister Academy was held Mary 21-23, 2010, at the Beersheba Assembly. “The Certified Lay Minister Program,” notes Susan Padgett, Director of the Office of Ministerial Concerns, “is intended to enrich the means by which laity lives out their calling in their local congregation and community.”
Twenty persons were in attendance for the inaugural event and they represented six of the seven Tennessee Annual Conference Districts.
Providing leadership for the Certified Lay Minister Academy were the Rev. Susan Padgett, the Rev. Mary Noble Parrish, Director of the Academy, and the Rev. Gayle Watson, Dean in Residence.
Jared Wilson leads a session on worship.
Six persons served as presenters during Academy sessions: the Rev. Amanda Diamond, “Call and Spiritual Gifts”; the Rev. Jared Wilson, “Worship”; the Rev. Gerald Liu, “Preaching”; the Rev. Dr. Vin Walkup, “Leadership and Administration”: the Rev. Dr. Joy Samuels, “Pastoral/Congregational Care”; and the Rev. Deb Smith, “Faith Formation and Discipleship.”
Susan Padgett was deeply moved by the quality of the event and the active participation by all registrants for the Academy: “The weekend was an amazing experience and reaffirmed for me the meaningful ministry in which our lay people are engaged through the churches of the Tennessee Conference.”
Participants were no less excited by the impact of the event. Merrily Walters, Clarksville District, shared her feelings: “I have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit this entire weekend and made new friends in Christ that I KNOW will last a lifetime. I am leaving with the beginnings of a new spiritual plan. Thank you so much!”
Beverly Dycus, Clarksville District, reaffirmed Merrily’s feelings: “I have received fresh insights and ways to more effectively minister . . . the sessions were informative with dynamic leaders offering practical and experienced ways of ministry. I leave Beersheba energized with Holy Spirit inspired ideas.” Steve Fisher, Columbia District, agreed: “The Spirit was alive and present at the Academy this weekend! I have been affirmed in my call to deepen ministry in my local church and in my community.”
Jim Melrose, Columbia District, had a surprise waiting for him: “SURPRISE! I only thought I knew what my ministry direction was. God and the CLM Academy helped point me in the ‘right’ direction.”
And Bill Dowell from the Cumberland District concluded: “The most important thing I learned at the CLM Academy was thinking about and learning all the ways we encounter God and how we share this encounter with others.”
For further information about becoming a Certified Lay Minister, contact the Academy registrar, Gloria Watts-Jones @ 931-209-6510 or watt7@msn.com
Father-son partnership reveals amazing lessons in love, faith
Wheelchair-bound Adam Andrews and father, Dwight, honored at commencementBy Grant Vosburgh*
PULASKI, Tenn. – As his name sounded through the public address system, fellow members of the Class of 2010 immediately rose to their feet in applause, quickly followed by the faculty and staff of Martin Methodist College. Amidst that ovation, Adam Andrews began maneuvering his wheelchair toward President Ted Brown, who waited with two academic degrees in hand – one a Bachelor of Business Administration in sport management and the second a Bachelor of Science in Business with Secondary Licensure (to teach at the high school level). Within moments, everyone in Curry Christian Life Center was standing and applauding a remarkable young man and his inspiring perseverance after a high school football injury had left him without the use of his arms and legs seven years earlier.
Dwight Andrews stoically stood a few steps behind his son, prepared to assist Adam as he received his degrees. It was the very thing he had done each day for the past five years as he had chauffeured the 100-mile round trip from Collinwood, Tenn., to Pulaski and gone to every college class with his son – writing lecture notes, collecting needed books and resources, recording his son’s answers on multiple choice tests . . . whatever assistance the eventual cum laude graduate might need to complete his assignments. The father was even wearing a matching cap and gown as he escorted his graduate through the pomp and circumstance of the May 1 commencement.
Adam Andrews receives his degree from Martin Methodist College president Ted Brown. His father Dwight is standing next to him. A Martin Methodist College Photo.
But now, as he took a step toward the podium to be with his son, a marshal’s outstretched arm gently blocked his way. “Just wait here,” came the whispered instructions. “Dr. Brown has a surprise for you.”
With that, Martin Methodist’s president stepped to the microphone and briefly informed the audience about the second part of this compelling story.
“This is a man who served as academic assistant for his son, attending an estimated 1,720 class sessions with no hope of receiving a degree, but simply to support his son,” Brown said. “Mr. Andrews has been an inspiration to everyone who has seen his unstinting devotion, especially those of us who are fathers or mothers, or who dream of being fathers or mothers. He has been a courageous and poignant figure on our campus for five years, and we will miss him just as we will miss Adam.”
And, with that, Brown conferred an honorary bachelor of science degree to Dwight Andrews.
Now the standing ovation and thunderous applause were tempered by tears all throughout Curry Christian Life Center. Longtime college personnel later said it was the most moving moment they had ever experienced at a Martin Methodist graduation.
Gail Newton, associate professor of business, had witnessed this partnership from the very start of Adam’s college life, and this final scene immediately brought back a wave of emotions and reflections.
“Mr. Andrews is such a devoted father, a very unassuming gentle person to talk with, but a definite strength when it comes to his work with Adam,” she said. “Of course, it was always with Mr. Andrews very content to be in the background.
“Adam and his father have become such a part of the academic routine that they just come into a classroom with all the other students, and you honestly don’t notice anything out of the ordinary,” Newton said. “Adam is usually talking with some other student about some sporting event, yesterday’s scores, that sort of thing. I was lecturing one day in class, just a routine day, and I noticed Mr. Andrews reach over and lightly scratch Adam’s forehead, a simple gesture to us that we take for granted and yet that was a definite moment for me. Very quickly I was reminded what an extraordinary young person and father I have had the privilege to come to know.”
Indeed, whether he’s mastering – and often improving – computer programs that allow him to accomplish a myriad of assignments and tasks, whether he’s coaching the Collinwood middle school football team, or whether he’s taking accurate aim at a rifle range (he’s president of the local chapter of Outdoors Without Limits, better known as O.W.L.), Adam Andrews never ceases to amaze friends and acquaintances.
Yet, while he reluctantly acknowledges that others consider him an inspirational role model – Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher invited Adam to speak at his son’s school in Nashville a few years ago – he certainly doesn’t view himself in that light.
For the son, life goes on and a person finds alternative ways to do what must be done.
“I realized pretty quickly that I can do a whole lot more than I thought I could do,” Adam said. “The way my sister and I were taught by our parents, whether in athletics or academics, you always find a way to get things done, and you don’t settle for less than your best. After 15 years of being taught this everyday by my mother and father, I wasn’t going to let this stop me.
“I’m trying the best I can so that I don’t see myself any different than before. This shouldn’t change my attitude or my work ethic. I know there are things I can’t do or that I’ve got to do differently, but that’s my problem, not anybody else’s,” he said. “I’ll deal with it.”
And his dad is there at his side, each step of the way, whether in a biology lab at Martin Methodist College, a public school classroom as Adam does his student teaching, or, this summer, in the athletic ticket office at the University of North Alabama, where Adam is doing a sport management internship. For the father, there’s nothing heroic happening here; it’s just what a parent does for his child.
The Andrews family photo, standing behind Adam are (from left): his grandmother, Jeanette Calton; his parents, Keddith and Dwight; and his sister, Abby. A Martin Methodist College Photo.
“Adam wanted to go to college, and we needed to find a way for that happen,” Dwight said, explaining that because the family’s insurance came from his wife’s employer, it was more financially feasible for him to give up his job. “I knew it would be hard on him with me being by his side all the time, but he wanted me to go with him.
“Sometimes you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do,” he said. “I’m glad I had the opportunity to do it.”
He also is quick to note that his wife, Keddith, deserves equal credit.
“I don’t have the words to say how I felt when they gave me the honorary degree,” he said. “I almost cried, but I held it back. It was a real surprise – I thought they had given me the cap and gown just so I would blend it with everyone else as I went with Adam through the ceremony. I really appreciated what the college did, but, honestly, my wife should have gotten part of it. She did all the work at home, especially because she had to type all of Adam’s papers, and . . .” he paused to cast a father’s knowing smile toward his son, “he always waits until the last minute to get assignments done.”
The Rev. John Ives, who has been the family’s pastor at Shawnettee United Methodist Church in Collinwood, since July 2003 – nine months after Adam’s injury – sees the entire Andrews family as a role model.
“Had it been Dwight who had the job with insurance benefits, then it would have been Keddith doing this with Adam. She is 50 percent of that equation,” Ives said. “They are a family that definitely loves each other. They are there for each other, 110 percent of the time. Adam’s sister, Abby, has been heavily involved in basketball and summer softball, and they’ve always been there for her, too, getting her wherever she needs to be.”
Indeed, Gail Newton recalls the morning after Abby signed a scholarship to play basketball at Middle Tennessee State University; Adam and his father arrived in class proudly wearing Blue Raider T-shirts and baseball caps. (Following a knee injury and a redshirt freshman season, she has transferred to the University of North Alabama, where she will have four years of basketball eligibility remaining.)
It’s not just the members of the Andrews family who are there for one another, however. As Ives has witnessed over the past eight years, it’s as if the entire Shawnettee congregation and Collinwood community are an extended family.
“This church has offered as much support as they’ve needed . . . and more than what is needed. I can’t tell you how many times the church has responded, financially and beyond, and there have been other people who have had dramatic health issues, and these church members are there for each other, stepping in any way they can,” Ives said.
“The whole Collinwood community is just a tremendously loving community,” he continued. “This is a town of about 1,000 people, and when we held a prayer gathering at their home on the first anniversary of his injury, there must have been 500 people that evening, all standing outside around their house.”
Just as an estimated 1,500 people in Curry Christian Life Center stood on the morning of Martin Methodist College’s commencement, honoring a story of resilient determination, unflagging faith . . . and a love story for the ages.
“A lot of people think it’s amazing what I’ve done,” Adam Andrews said, relaxing at his home three weeks later, his father at his side. “But if you started writing down the names of all the people who have helped, you wouldn’t have enough paper. Family, friends, Martin Methodist College, people we don’t know . . .
“Granted, we’ve not always had the best of things, but we’ve not had the worst of things, either. We’ve always loved each other as much as possible in this family. My mama and my daddy have made their life about their kids, and it’s something God has blessed me and my sister with. Daddy didn’t get paid as if he had been working for himself, and I know it’s put them in a bit of a bind, but they’ve decided that if somebody is going to do without, it’s going to be them, not us,” he said.
Then, as his father forced a small smile and slightly lowered his head – perhaps trying not to become emotional for the second time in three weeks – Adam revealed the most important lesson learned during his Martin Methodist College experience.
“If I ever have kids or if my sister ever has kids, that’s the way we’ll do it, because our parents have taught us that your kids come first.”
*Grant Vosburgh is Director of Communications, Martin Methodist College
Four Given Ingram Scholarship Awards on May 16, 2010
Left to right: R Bill Mitchell, Samatha Stafford, Torri Carver, Rev. Kathie Bowles, Jonathan Goodwin, Kaleb Allen, Shirley Ingram
On May 16, 2010, the Gainesboro First UMC awarded scholarships to four Jackson County Seniors. The scholarships are made available through the generosity of Shirley and the late Rev. Cliff Ingram. Dr. Vin Walkup was our guest speaker and Shirley Ingram gave the children's message. Bill Mitchell and Pastor Kathie presented the scholarship awards. There was a luncheon for the recipients and their families immediately following the church service. We would like to congratulate Jonathan, Torri, Samatha, and Kaleb and wish them the very best as they continue their education.
Bless Be the Tie That Binds
By Lucy Neeley Adams
Summer days bring many different experiences . Children look forward to getting out of school unless they are in the year ‘round system. Families plan vacations. Picnics by the lake or in the park bring happy memories.
However, since my husband is a United Methodist minister, June was a month to move to another church or to stay at the one he was serving. Moving vans were a common thing to see in our driveway after about five years of serving one church. We did this several times and the numerous friends that we have are a great blessing to our lives.
I cherish God’s word in John 13:35 as I remember our years of ministry in local churches. “By this love everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Because we Christians have Jesus in our hearts our love unites us to all brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ.
Ministry was also good for another family. Rev. and Mrs. John Fawcett served a small Baptist church in Waingate, Yorkshire, England in 1722. Church members loved listening to his sermons, prayers and singing hymns together. The Fawcetts were very content.
But one day an invitation came from a church in London for Fawcett to come and be their pastor. It was a larger, more prestigious church with an increase in salary. Everything indicated that this would be a very good move.
The decision was made as they packed their belongings and said their farewells. Fawcett preached his final sermon at the little church on their last Sunday.
Then the unexpected happened. Rev. Fawcett changed his mind. The tie that bound him to this small parish was too strong. His members sorrow and unembarrassed tears convinced him to stay. He remained there for fifty-four years.
History records that “Blest Be the Tie That Binds” may have been a direct response to the expressions of love from his congregation during that one short time of indecision.
When I sing the third stanza of this hymn I remember friends who will always be loved because “we share each other’s woes, our mutual burdens bear: and often for each other flows the sympathizing tear.” Caring love can be expressed with words, but often is expressed with tears.
The story is told of little Billy, who sat on the sidewalk curb with his friends. Since they were all crying, someone stopped to ask what was wrong. One little boy replied, “We’ve got a pain in Billy’s stomach.” Billy will never forget his friends who helped him cry. That is the tie that binds our hearts in everlasting love – God’s kind of love.
Lucy Neeley Adams -- parts taken from 52 HYMN STORY DEVOTIONS
Justice for Our Neighbors is a Gift: A UMC.org commentary
By Kathryn Spry*
JFON. A friend mentioned it to me. It sounded interesting—something about helping our neighbors—and before I knew it, I was totally immersed in helping immigrants get the legal advice they need.
Justice for Our Neighbors is a faith-driven ministry, welcoming immigrants into our churches and communities by providing free, high-quality immigration legal services, education and advocacy.
Photo #14, caption: Kathryn Spry is the Tennessee Justice For Our Neighbors clinic co-coordinator at Hillcrest United Methodist Church in Nashville. A UMNS photo by Ronny Perry.
One Saturday a month, I serve as the coordinator for a clinic in Nashville, Tenn. offered by JFON. I am able to offer hospitality to individuals and families who find themselves in need among strangers. I see volunteers give their time to gather the information needed to help hurting people feel safe. I witness children smiling and laughing while their mother’s face is filled with fear and confusion about her family’s future.
I hear kind words of comfort offered to our clients who are unsure that they deserve our attention and our help. I am surprised that I hear no complaints from those who have to wait for hours to see the attorney who may or may not be able to give them the news they are hoping for. I listen to volunteers who are so pleased to be able to offer their time and attention to these neighbors in our midst.
Justice for Our Neighbors has been a true gift to our community. We have been fortunate to have the assistance of gifted lawyers and dedicated volunteers. Each clinic is different. We may not know what to expect as far as the needs of our clients, but I can always expect the very best support from our volunteers.
Once we were in need of 15 extra volunteers for a special clinic. I was so anxious. Could we pull this off? We were overjoyed to welcome even more than the 15 volunteers we needed! Recently we all shared tears of joy as clients completed processes to be able to travel and visit their families in their home countries again. It reminded us all of how much we take for granted in our own lives.
Refugees are struggling to make a new life for themselves and their families. Many have endured multiple losses as they left the only home they had known to protect their loved ones. Our local churches, along with the support of the United Methodist Committee on Relief, can offer some help to ease their way.
For many years, Micah 6:8 was my favorite scripture. Now, at least one Saturday each month, I get to see my favorite scripture acted out by my neighbors, for my neighbors. “But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously—take God seriously.” (The Message)
*Kathryn Spry’s commentary can be found on the blogsite http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=5733249&ct=8412923
1. Franklin First UMC and the TOTALLY Unexpected Day,
2. McKendree Village and Hermitage UMC work together to host UMVIM teams
3. Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors(JfON) worker, Katherine Dix-Esquivel, wins award,
4. Inaugural Certified Lay Minister Academy proves to be Spirit-led event
5. Father-son partnership reveals amazing lessons in love, faith,
6. Four Given Ingram Scholarship Awards on May 16, 2010
7. .Bless Be the Tie That Binds
8. Justice for Our Neighbors is a Gift: A UMC.org commentary by Kathryn Spry
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Franklin First UMC and the TOTALLY Unexpected Day
By Brooke Rainey
Franklin First United Methodist Church had a unique experience when the worst flood in the community’s history coincided with their May 2 Commitment Sunday worship service at The Factory in Franklin, TN. The church had been planning for many months to hold this special service as part of their commitment to a new capital campaign: God’s Vision, our Future. On the morning of May 2nd, all plans literally began changing as the flood water rose.
Worship was held but the focus changed. In the midst of this disaster the church rerouted a catered breakfast meal to the local Red Cross shelter where over 250 people had been placed after evacuation from their homes. The message from Dr. Lynn Hill changed to the response Jesus would expect from all of us: love one another as you have been loved. The church rallied around its membership via Facebook, Twitter, the website and with the 250 people who braved the waters and showed up for worship.
Franklin First senior pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lynn Hill, reflected on the May 2nd experience; “Starting back in September of 2009 we began planning for a historical worship service at Franklin First United Methodist Church to celebrate our Commitment Sunday for our Imagine: God’s Vision, Our Future campaign for the development of our North Campus facilities. Little did we realize just how historic that day would turn out to be with flooding considered to be the 100 year, the 500 year, and perhaps even the millennial flood. All of the months of preparation, design, and coordination had to immediately be changed. The focus was not to be on the financial goals of new campus development, but on loving and serving people in critical need. This service was indeed historic as it became the launching of a response from Franklin First United Methodist Church to be in ministry in incredible ways. We were reminded that we were to love others as Jesus loves us. In some amazing ways, that is what the faith community at FUMC did and continues to do.”
For the persons that braved the flooding to attend the worship service at The Factory, things became even more dramatic than Hill realized at the time. Church member Vicki Sharber tells what happened from her vantage point in the congregation: “At the end of Lynn Hill’s moving sermon about responding to and loving our neighbors as Jesus would want us to respond, an unexpected occurrence took place before Lynn could conclude the service.”
“We could hear the rain begin to fall on the tin roof and the lightning and thunder flashed and popped as Lynn stood before the congregation getting ready give the benediction. Suddenly, water began to gush up out of the floor and that ended our service. People began to pick up their wet feet and dash to drier ground. I thought it to be God giving an ‘Amen’ to Lynn’s sermon and warning us to heed the call. To this day Franklin First certainly has responded to the community.”
More to clean.
Angela Overstreet, a dedicated lay person, took the lead from her home computer and began collecting names of those in need of help and those who were willing to lend a hand. That was Day One.
As this issue of THE REVIEW goes to press the following summary of the congregation’s efforts includes:
• 33 homes clean up completed with 3 still in progress (as of Jun 1)
• 18 others we consulted on
• Total 54 homes entered or assisted
• Over 220 volunteers have emerged from the church to respond to the needs
• Passed out information on FEMA and Flood safety
• Hard Bargain community effort assistance
• Red Cross (providing food for their shelter)
• Flood collection for Centerville, TN
• 61st Ave. UMC – working in the neighborhood; sorting supplies; communication
• We collected furniture and delivered trailers full of supplies for 61st Ave neighbors in their temporary FEMA locations
• 50-70 lunches 3 times/week for work teams. Then daily during the Family Mission Team. Today the lunch team is on standby to prepare and deliver as needed.
• General contact/communication with outside people
• Collaboration with other teams coming into area. Lots of people coming in.
As she continues to lead the response of the Franklin First UMC congregation, Emergency Response Team (ERT) leader Angela Overstreet comments on the response of her fellow church members: “It is only through being faithful, studying and staying in the Word and making a commitment to prayer were we ever able to accomplish all that He has given us to do. God gets all the glory here. The only reason we knew how to respond was because of the faith development that has been happening in our church. It is our blessing and honor to serve.”
A group from the church, the Franklin First Family Mission Team, was scheduled to go to Biloxi, Mississippi, during the last part of May but chose to stay home and work on the homes of two church members in a local neighborhood. Parents and their kids of all ages, plus singles and others, dropped in just to help for the day which showed great love for their church family. Floors were replaced, paint was carefully brushed, and flowers were planted which returned gardens to their former beauty. The church’s Associate Pastor, Vona Wilson, reflected on the situation. “God keeps blessing us with opportunity to help and we are deeply grateful. This is transforming our church family.”
As this issue of THE REVIEW goes to press, Franklin First is planning and organizing for long-term recovery. They already had a June 12th Early Response Team training scheduled and expect to have many more in the future.
The thirteen rooms for volunteers are on the first floor, North Wing of the Health Center which was a skilled nursing unit for long-term care. Hermitage UMC remodeled one room in the Volunteer in Mission center as a station where wireless use of computers would be possible.
McKendree Village, in cooperation with Hermitage UMC, is opening a section of its unused space to house UMCOR and UMVIM teams who are coming to the Nashville area to assist with flood relief work. Rev. Alan Black, senior pastor at Hermitage UMC, along with Todd Moore, executive director of McKendree Village, are working together to help persons affected by the flood.
Hermitage UMC is acting as host congregation, with members working to prepare part of the Health Center wing to lodge 26 flood relief team members in thirteen rooms. A fresh cleaning, making beds, and creating a hospitality room have been part of the church’s service. Hermitage UMC is also helping to provide meals and other supplies as needed.
McKendree Village is excited to be able to offer a portion of its campus for outreach and ministry to the community and to those who are called to serve in our flood-affected neighborhoods. As part of its heritage, McKendree Village is committed to the ongoing work of Christ in the world and welcomes this new opportunity to fulfill that calling.
Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors(JfON) worker, Katherine Dix-Esquivel, wins statewide award
On Friday, May 22nd, Katherine Dix-Esquivel was awarded a 2010 Long-Haul Award by the Tennessee Alliance for Progress. TAP's annual Long Haul awards salute the achievements of outstanding people who work for social, economic and environmental justice in Tennessee.
Dix-Esquivel is a volunteer lawyer for Justice for Our Neighbor Program (an advance special of the Tennessee Annual Conference). Justice for Our Neighbors is a faith-driven ministry, welcoming immigrants into our churches and communities by providing free, high-quality immigration legal services, education and advocacy. The ministry was created in response to increasingly complex immigration regulations.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) initiated the program in 1999. Today there are more than 20 JFON programs operating nationwide. Our program in Tennessee began in April 2008.
When Katherine Dix-Esquivel was nominated for the Long-Haul Award it was noted that “Katherine is an attorney, guided by her faith and her commitment to social justice -- she directs the Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors office (under the umbrella of Belmont United Methodist Church) -- providing free legal counsel to immigrants, serving as a mentor to many, going about her work with cheerful passion and enviable earnestness. Never one to take herself too seriously, though the work itself maybe serious, Katherine generously gives of her time and talent, often crediting others for work done.”
Liz Shadbolt, Chairperson of the JfON Board, feels that “Katherine Dix-Esquivel is a major powerhouse behind all that JfON does in Nashville. Thanks to efforts like Katherine’s, we are making a difference in many lives in our community.”
The mission of JFON is four-fold: to provide high quality immigration legal services, to create an atmosphere of welcome for immigrants, to educate others around the issue of immigration, and to advocate for lasting policy change on both a local and federal level.
While in most communities, the monthly legal services clinic serves as the anchor for the JFON project - it is, in fact, the most visible and tangible manifestation of the ministry - it's important to keep in mind that the JFON mission goes beyond improving the wellbeing of individual clients and families to encompass creating a welcoming and supportive community and achieving social justice.
Tennessee Alliance for Progress (TAP) is a think/act tank with a mission to create healthy families and communities in Tennessee. TAP believes in true political and economic democracy, that people should participate in decisions that affect their lives.TAP believes that we need to articulate a hopeful vision for the future based on the idea that we are all in it together, not that we’re all on our own and we’re all out for ourselves. For further information about TAP or to make donations go to the TAP website: http://www.taptn.org/
Inaugural Certified Lay Minister Academy proves to be Spirit-led event
Second row: left to right: Mary Noble Parish, Dale Wells (Donelson Heights UMC), Gloria Watts-Jones (Columbia First UMC), Beverly Dycus (Wilee’s Chapel UMC), Betty Ann Meriwether (St. Bethlehem UMC), Bud Whipple (Hillcrest UMC), Ruthan Patient (Concord UMC).
Back row: left to right: Susan Padgett, Pat Mathews (Glenwood UMC), Merrily Walters (Gideon UMC), Opal Ransom (Gordon Memorial UMC), Steve Fisher (Epworth UMC), Michael West (Hickory Point UMC), Bill Dowell (Saundersville UMC), Jim Melrose (Bethlehem UMC), James Marks (St. Luke UMC), Erik Augustson (Salem UMC), and James Brewer (Linden First UMC).
The inaugural class for the Certified Lay Minister Academy was held Mary 21-23, 2010, at the Beersheba Assembly. “The Certified Lay Minister Program,” notes Susan Padgett, Director of the Office of Ministerial Concerns, “is intended to enrich the means by which laity lives out their calling in their local congregation and community.”
Twenty persons were in attendance for the inaugural event and they represented six of the seven Tennessee Annual Conference Districts.
Providing leadership for the Certified Lay Minister Academy were the Rev. Susan Padgett, the Rev. Mary Noble Parrish, Director of the Academy, and the Rev. Gayle Watson, Dean in Residence.
Six persons served as presenters during Academy sessions: the Rev. Amanda Diamond, “Call and Spiritual Gifts”; the Rev. Jared Wilson, “Worship”; the Rev. Gerald Liu, “Preaching”; the Rev. Dr. Vin Walkup, “Leadership and Administration”: the Rev. Dr. Joy Samuels, “Pastoral/Congregational Care”; and the Rev. Deb Smith, “Faith Formation and Discipleship.”
Susan Padgett was deeply moved by the quality of the event and the active participation by all registrants for the Academy: “The weekend was an amazing experience and reaffirmed for me the meaningful ministry in which our lay people are engaged through the churches of the Tennessee Conference.”
Participants were no less excited by the impact of the event. Merrily Walters, Clarksville District, shared her feelings: “I have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit this entire weekend and made new friends in Christ that I KNOW will last a lifetime. I am leaving with the beginnings of a new spiritual plan. Thank you so much!”
Beverly Dycus, Clarksville District, reaffirmed Merrily’s feelings: “I have received fresh insights and ways to more effectively minister . . . the sessions were informative with dynamic leaders offering practical and experienced ways of ministry. I leave Beersheba energized with Holy Spirit inspired ideas.” Steve Fisher, Columbia District, agreed: “The Spirit was alive and present at the Academy this weekend! I have been affirmed in my call to deepen ministry in my local church and in my community.”
Jim Melrose, Columbia District, had a surprise waiting for him: “SURPRISE! I only thought I knew what my ministry direction was. God and the CLM Academy helped point me in the ‘right’ direction.”
And Bill Dowell from the Cumberland District concluded: “The most important thing I learned at the CLM Academy was thinking about and learning all the ways we encounter God and how we share this encounter with others.”
For further information about becoming a Certified Lay Minister, contact the Academy registrar, Gloria Watts-Jones @ 931-209-6510 or watt7@msn.com
Father-son partnership reveals amazing lessons in love, faith
Wheelchair-bound Adam Andrews and father, Dwight, honored at commencementBy Grant Vosburgh*
PULASKI, Tenn. – As his name sounded through the public address system, fellow members of the Class of 2010 immediately rose to their feet in applause, quickly followed by the faculty and staff of Martin Methodist College. Amidst that ovation, Adam Andrews began maneuvering his wheelchair toward President Ted Brown, who waited with two academic degrees in hand – one a Bachelor of Business Administration in sport management and the second a Bachelor of Science in Business with Secondary Licensure (to teach at the high school level). Within moments, everyone in Curry Christian Life Center was standing and applauding a remarkable young man and his inspiring perseverance after a high school football injury had left him without the use of his arms and legs seven years earlier.
Dwight Andrews stoically stood a few steps behind his son, prepared to assist Adam as he received his degrees. It was the very thing he had done each day for the past five years as he had chauffeured the 100-mile round trip from Collinwood, Tenn., to Pulaski and gone to every college class with his son – writing lecture notes, collecting needed books and resources, recording his son’s answers on multiple choice tests . . . whatever assistance the eventual cum laude graduate might need to complete his assignments. The father was even wearing a matching cap and gown as he escorted his graduate through the pomp and circumstance of the May 1 commencement.
But now, as he took a step toward the podium to be with his son, a marshal’s outstretched arm gently blocked his way. “Just wait here,” came the whispered instructions. “Dr. Brown has a surprise for you.”
With that, Martin Methodist’s president stepped to the microphone and briefly informed the audience about the second part of this compelling story.
“This is a man who served as academic assistant for his son, attending an estimated 1,720 class sessions with no hope of receiving a degree, but simply to support his son,” Brown said. “Mr. Andrews has been an inspiration to everyone who has seen his unstinting devotion, especially those of us who are fathers or mothers, or who dream of being fathers or mothers. He has been a courageous and poignant figure on our campus for five years, and we will miss him just as we will miss Adam.”
And, with that, Brown conferred an honorary bachelor of science degree to Dwight Andrews.
Now the standing ovation and thunderous applause were tempered by tears all throughout Curry Christian Life Center. Longtime college personnel later said it was the most moving moment they had ever experienced at a Martin Methodist graduation.
Gail Newton, associate professor of business, had witnessed this partnership from the very start of Adam’s college life, and this final scene immediately brought back a wave of emotions and reflections.
“Mr. Andrews is such a devoted father, a very unassuming gentle person to talk with, but a definite strength when it comes to his work with Adam,” she said. “Of course, it was always with Mr. Andrews very content to be in the background.
“Adam and his father have become such a part of the academic routine that they just come into a classroom with all the other students, and you honestly don’t notice anything out of the ordinary,” Newton said. “Adam is usually talking with some other student about some sporting event, yesterday’s scores, that sort of thing. I was lecturing one day in class, just a routine day, and I noticed Mr. Andrews reach over and lightly scratch Adam’s forehead, a simple gesture to us that we take for granted and yet that was a definite moment for me. Very quickly I was reminded what an extraordinary young person and father I have had the privilege to come to know.”
Indeed, whether he’s mastering – and often improving – computer programs that allow him to accomplish a myriad of assignments and tasks, whether he’s coaching the Collinwood middle school football team, or whether he’s taking accurate aim at a rifle range (he’s president of the local chapter of Outdoors Without Limits, better known as O.W.L.), Adam Andrews never ceases to amaze friends and acquaintances.
Yet, while he reluctantly acknowledges that others consider him an inspirational role model – Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher invited Adam to speak at his son’s school in Nashville a few years ago – he certainly doesn’t view himself in that light.
For the son, life goes on and a person finds alternative ways to do what must be done.
“I realized pretty quickly that I can do a whole lot more than I thought I could do,” Adam said. “The way my sister and I were taught by our parents, whether in athletics or academics, you always find a way to get things done, and you don’t settle for less than your best. After 15 years of being taught this everyday by my mother and father, I wasn’t going to let this stop me.
“I’m trying the best I can so that I don’t see myself any different than before. This shouldn’t change my attitude or my work ethic. I know there are things I can’t do or that I’ve got to do differently, but that’s my problem, not anybody else’s,” he said. “I’ll deal with it.”
And his dad is there at his side, each step of the way, whether in a biology lab at Martin Methodist College, a public school classroom as Adam does his student teaching, or, this summer, in the athletic ticket office at the University of North Alabama, where Adam is doing a sport management internship. For the father, there’s nothing heroic happening here; it’s just what a parent does for his child.
“Adam wanted to go to college, and we needed to find a way for that happen,” Dwight said, explaining that because the family’s insurance came from his wife’s employer, it was more financially feasible for him to give up his job. “I knew it would be hard on him with me being by his side all the time, but he wanted me to go with him.
“Sometimes you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do,” he said. “I’m glad I had the opportunity to do it.”
He also is quick to note that his wife, Keddith, deserves equal credit.
“I don’t have the words to say how I felt when they gave me the honorary degree,” he said. “I almost cried, but I held it back. It was a real surprise – I thought they had given me the cap and gown just so I would blend it with everyone else as I went with Adam through the ceremony. I really appreciated what the college did, but, honestly, my wife should have gotten part of it. She did all the work at home, especially because she had to type all of Adam’s papers, and . . .” he paused to cast a father’s knowing smile toward his son, “he always waits until the last minute to get assignments done.”
The Rev. John Ives, who has been the family’s pastor at Shawnettee United Methodist Church in Collinwood, since July 2003 – nine months after Adam’s injury – sees the entire Andrews family as a role model.
“Had it been Dwight who had the job with insurance benefits, then it would have been Keddith doing this with Adam. She is 50 percent of that equation,” Ives said. “They are a family that definitely loves each other. They are there for each other, 110 percent of the time. Adam’s sister, Abby, has been heavily involved in basketball and summer softball, and they’ve always been there for her, too, getting her wherever she needs to be.”
Indeed, Gail Newton recalls the morning after Abby signed a scholarship to play basketball at Middle Tennessee State University; Adam and his father arrived in class proudly wearing Blue Raider T-shirts and baseball caps. (Following a knee injury and a redshirt freshman season, she has transferred to the University of North Alabama, where she will have four years of basketball eligibility remaining.)
It’s not just the members of the Andrews family who are there for one another, however. As Ives has witnessed over the past eight years, it’s as if the entire Shawnettee congregation and Collinwood community are an extended family.
“This church has offered as much support as they’ve needed . . . and more than what is needed. I can’t tell you how many times the church has responded, financially and beyond, and there have been other people who have had dramatic health issues, and these church members are there for each other, stepping in any way they can,” Ives said.
“The whole Collinwood community is just a tremendously loving community,” he continued. “This is a town of about 1,000 people, and when we held a prayer gathering at their home on the first anniversary of his injury, there must have been 500 people that evening, all standing outside around their house.”
Just as an estimated 1,500 people in Curry Christian Life Center stood on the morning of Martin Methodist College’s commencement, honoring a story of resilient determination, unflagging faith . . . and a love story for the ages.
“A lot of people think it’s amazing what I’ve done,” Adam Andrews said, relaxing at his home three weeks later, his father at his side. “But if you started writing down the names of all the people who have helped, you wouldn’t have enough paper. Family, friends, Martin Methodist College, people we don’t know . . .
“Granted, we’ve not always had the best of things, but we’ve not had the worst of things, either. We’ve always loved each other as much as possible in this family. My mama and my daddy have made their life about their kids, and it’s something God has blessed me and my sister with. Daddy didn’t get paid as if he had been working for himself, and I know it’s put them in a bit of a bind, but they’ve decided that if somebody is going to do without, it’s going to be them, not us,” he said.
Then, as his father forced a small smile and slightly lowered his head – perhaps trying not to become emotional for the second time in three weeks – Adam revealed the most important lesson learned during his Martin Methodist College experience.
“If I ever have kids or if my sister ever has kids, that’s the way we’ll do it, because our parents have taught us that your kids come first.”
*Grant Vosburgh is Director of Communications, Martin Methodist College
Four Given Ingram Scholarship Awards on May 16, 2010
On May 16, 2010, the Gainesboro First UMC awarded scholarships to four Jackson County Seniors. The scholarships are made available through the generosity of Shirley and the late Rev. Cliff Ingram. Dr. Vin Walkup was our guest speaker and Shirley Ingram gave the children's message. Bill Mitchell and Pastor Kathie presented the scholarship awards. There was a luncheon for the recipients and their families immediately following the church service. We would like to congratulate Jonathan, Torri, Samatha, and Kaleb and wish them the very best as they continue their education.
Bless Be the Tie That Binds
By Lucy Neeley Adams
Summer days bring many different experiences . Children look forward to getting out of school unless they are in the year ‘round system. Families plan vacations. Picnics by the lake or in the park bring happy memories.
However, since my husband is a United Methodist minister, June was a month to move to another church or to stay at the one he was serving. Moving vans were a common thing to see in our driveway after about five years of serving one church. We did this several times and the numerous friends that we have are a great blessing to our lives.
I cherish God’s word in John 13:35 as I remember our years of ministry in local churches. “By this love everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Because we Christians have Jesus in our hearts our love unites us to all brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ.
Ministry was also good for another family. Rev. and Mrs. John Fawcett served a small Baptist church in Waingate, Yorkshire, England in 1722. Church members loved listening to his sermons, prayers and singing hymns together. The Fawcetts were very content.
But one day an invitation came from a church in London for Fawcett to come and be their pastor. It was a larger, more prestigious church with an increase in salary. Everything indicated that this would be a very good move.
The decision was made as they packed their belongings and said their farewells. Fawcett preached his final sermon at the little church on their last Sunday.
Then the unexpected happened. Rev. Fawcett changed his mind. The tie that bound him to this small parish was too strong. His members sorrow and unembarrassed tears convinced him to stay. He remained there for fifty-four years.
History records that “Blest Be the Tie That Binds” may have been a direct response to the expressions of love from his congregation during that one short time of indecision.
When I sing the third stanza of this hymn I remember friends who will always be loved because “we share each other’s woes, our mutual burdens bear: and often for each other flows the sympathizing tear.” Caring love can be expressed with words, but often is expressed with tears.
The story is told of little Billy, who sat on the sidewalk curb with his friends. Since they were all crying, someone stopped to ask what was wrong. One little boy replied, “We’ve got a pain in Billy’s stomach.” Billy will never forget his friends who helped him cry. That is the tie that binds our hearts in everlasting love – God’s kind of love.
Lucy Neeley Adams -- parts taken from 52 HYMN STORY DEVOTIONS
Justice for Our Neighbors is a Gift: A UMC.org commentary
By Kathryn Spry*
Justice for Our Neighbors is a faith-driven ministry, welcoming immigrants into our churches and communities by providing free, high-quality immigration legal services, education and advocacy.
Photo #14, caption: Kathryn Spry is the Tennessee Justice For Our Neighbors clinic co-coordinator at Hillcrest United Methodist Church in Nashville. A UMNS photo by Ronny Perry.
One Saturday a month, I serve as the coordinator for a clinic in Nashville, Tenn. offered by JFON. I am able to offer hospitality to individuals and families who find themselves in need among strangers. I see volunteers give their time to gather the information needed to help hurting people feel safe. I witness children smiling and laughing while their mother’s face is filled with fear and confusion about her family’s future.
I hear kind words of comfort offered to our clients who are unsure that they deserve our attention and our help. I am surprised that I hear no complaints from those who have to wait for hours to see the attorney who may or may not be able to give them the news they are hoping for. I listen to volunteers who are so pleased to be able to offer their time and attention to these neighbors in our midst.
Justice for Our Neighbors has been a true gift to our community. We have been fortunate to have the assistance of gifted lawyers and dedicated volunteers. Each clinic is different. We may not know what to expect as far as the needs of our clients, but I can always expect the very best support from our volunteers.
Once we were in need of 15 extra volunteers for a special clinic. I was so anxious. Could we pull this off? We were overjoyed to welcome even more than the 15 volunteers we needed! Recently we all shared tears of joy as clients completed processes to be able to travel and visit their families in their home countries again. It reminded us all of how much we take for granted in our own lives.
Refugees are struggling to make a new life for themselves and their families. Many have endured multiple losses as they left the only home they had known to protect their loved ones. Our local churches, along with the support of the United Methodist Committee on Relief, can offer some help to ease their way.
For many years, Micah 6:8 was my favorite scripture. Now, at least one Saturday each month, I get to see my favorite scripture acted out by my neighbors, for my neighbors. “But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously—take God seriously.” (The Message)
*Kathryn Spry’s commentary can be found on the blogsite http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=5733249&ct=8412923
posted by TN Conference UMC @ 5:12 PM
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