Tennessee Conference Review

Electronic Version of The Tennessee Conference Review a publication of The Tennessee Conference - United Methodist Church

Thomas Nankervis, Editor

Monday, January 18, 2010

TENNESSEE CONFERENCE REVIEW January 22, 2010

Articles in the January 22nd Edition of THE REVIEW

1. Volunteering at Sager-Brown Depot is powerful experience for Columbia District Team,
2. A prayerful reflection by Mary Loraine Davis, Gallatin First United Methodist Church.
3. Conference Preteen groups provide gifts of warmth, concern to West Nashville children.
4. The Abundant Life, From the December 2009 issue of Our Journey, Life and Ministry of the Oliver Family in Malawi.
5. Pulley, Eagle Scout mentors ‘at risk’ children
6. Are You Thirsty? A Meditation by Cinde Lucas
7. Dr. Melodie G. Galloway new Musical Director of Junaluska Singers
_________________________


Volunteering at Sager-Brown Depot is powerful experience for Columbia District Team



The Columbia District team stands by the bayou. From left to right Mary Loraine Davis, Tom Nankervis, Carla Nankervis, Stella Rhodes, Joe Bell, Helen Petty, Dawn Yelverton, Donna Higginbotham, and Martha Duncan.

A team of nine persons from the Tennessee Conference journeyed to Baldwin, Louisiana, to provide volunteer services at the UMCOR Sager-Brown Depot from January 3-8, 2010. The team was organized by the Columbia District of the Conference with the Rev. Gary Wedgewood, pastor of Riverside UMC, Columbia, as team leader. At the last moment Wedgewood faced a surgical procedure and couldn’t make the trip. The Rev. Donna J. Higginbotham assumed the role as team leader. Other Columbia District persons making the trip were Joe Bell, Dawn Yelverton, Helen Petty, Martha Duncan, and Stella Rhodes. Joining the team from other districts were Tom and Carla Nankervis, Nashville District, and Mary Loraine Davis, Cumberland District. Davis, Gallatin First United Methodist Church, was recognized by the Sager-Brown staff for having served as a volunteer for each of the last five years.


Stella Rhodes holds up a t-shirt that could be the motto for Sager-Brown.

But the ten team members were not the lone representatives of the Volunteer State—they brought with them the Conference Pick-Up Truck pulling a VERY heavy trailer full of cleaning buckets (formerly known as “flood buckets”) as well as a mixture of kits including the much needed health kits. These kits were assembled by a number of congregations within the Conference.


A work crew begins to unload the Tennessee Conference trailer. Joe Bell is second from the right.

Greeting the delegation at Sager-Brown were long-term volunteer Bob Snell, and Sager-Brown staff person, Barbara Snell—two Tennesseans who made the whole facility seem like “home”.

Many tremendous moments for Sager-Brown volunteers


Volunteers Karen and Fred Peter stand in front of the load of blankets and health kits that will be delivered within four blocks of their home in Chula Vista, California.

There were tremendous moments—one was when a couple from Chula Vista, California, realized that the final stop of the truck bearing a load of blankets and health kits being sent for ministry along the Mexican border was - - Chula Vista, California - -and the address was just four blocks from where the couple lived.

Or that the young brunette who worked so long and hard on both health kits and school kits—and at the same time providing loving leadership and guidance to persons much her senior--was a thirteen-year-old eighth grader.

And the Depot itself was an inspiration. Rows of cleaning buckets, floor to ceiling. One would think that the supply would last forever—but if disaster strikes it is an eye opening to realize that the total supply could be shipped out in several days. In addition there were boxes of other kits piled high – Kits containing ten blankets, boxes of medical kits, birthing kits, layette kits, sewing kits, and school kits. There were also large boxes containing supplies to create the kits.


Holding hands and praying for each shipment as it is about to leave the Depot is a strong tradition.


A truck-load of supplies—whether they be cleaning kits destined to help flood victims, or health kits making it possible to promote good health in time of crisis, or school kits for youngsters that could not afford the supplies needed for quality education—never leaves the warehouse without staff and volunteers gathering around to pray for the shipment and the persons that will be given the gift of hope when the supplies arrive at their destination.

Re-inspection of each kit sent to Sager-Brown makes certain that every item is present, and there is nothing that will prevent shipment across national borders. UMCOR supply kits have become known for supplying needed help without attempting to proselytize the intended recipients.

In the sewing room persons work on cloth bags for school supply kits as well as blankets for infants. Second from left is Martha Duncan, third from left is Donna Higginbotham.

The goal is to make certain that everyone receives the loving help they need no matter their religious persuasion . . .which is more crucial than promoting the faith, country, or organization that prepared and sent the kit. As needs arise, whether it be to help stamp out malaria through the Nothing But Nets campaign or dealing with a disaster in Asia the United Methodist Church partners with other groups (Including the National Basketball Association, or Islamic equivalents of the American Red Cross) - -whatever it takes to get help to needy geographic areas fast and with little or no waste of tendered assistance.

 Long term volunteers assume a great deal of responsibility in working with volunteer groups. From the left Tennessee Conference’s Bob Snell, Jerry Wiese, Shirley Wiese, Loren Woolson, Rita Woolson, and Jan Pettit

Sager-Brown Depot constructed on land owned by the United Methodist Women


 Newly sewn school kit bags are brought to the loading area to be filled with supplies. Left is Tennessean Helen Petty.
The Sager-Brown land and facilities have been owned for many years by the United Methodist Women and its predecessor organizations. For years, from 1867 until 1978, the buildings and land were used as a school for African American youngsters. In 1978 the school closed because of desegregation. It went vacant for the next 14 years and there were no serious offers to purchase the site. In 1992 Hurricane Andrew hit the Gulf Coast and UMCOR received permission to re-open Sager-Brown. It soon became apparent that the site was well situated to become an international distribution center—it was equal distance to the ports in both New Orleans and Houston, and U.S. Highway 90 and Interstate 10 provided good truck access to much of the United States. UMCOR started the construction of the Sager-Brown Depot on the Women’s Division property. The Depot with its immense storage capability was opened in 1996. In 2007 a new full-equipped sewing room was added so that school bags, baby blankets and the like could be made by volunteers.

Sager-Brown Reaches out in love to the community




Worship time is important at Sager-Brown. Dawn Yelverton (3rd from left, front row) led group reflections of our time together; Donna Higginbotham (4th from left) was a co-celebrant for the communion service. Other Tennesseans in the photo are Joe Bell ((5th from left), and Helen Petty (back row).


Sager-Brown Depot is not located in affluent suburbs. In St. Mary Parish, home to Sager-Brown, there is a higher unemployment percentage than in much of the nation and a higher percentage of persons living below the poverty level. According to the latest statistics the village of Baldwin has about 28.1% of families and 31.8% of the population below the poverty line, including 45.3% of those under age 18 and 22.8% of those age 65 or over. The general population has been decreasing in number since before the 2000 census. All of this before the latest severe storms and the ongoing financial recession. Things may be even worse in 2010. UMCOR and the Sager-Brown staff are reaching out to the communities in the St. Mary Parish, mainly by helping families and individuals restore housing that has been damaged by weather, or damaged continuously over time because residents could not afford to make repairs. As this article goes to press over 90 homes are on the waiting list for repairs, and hopefully construction teams from around the country will see the need for reaching out with loving hands to help our “brothers and sisters” in St. Mary Parish.

Testimony from volunteers
Testimony from volunteers shows the impact serving at Sager-Brown can have on individuals and teams of workers from across the U.S.


Sommer Ferguson, the youngest volunteer at age 13, strongly recommends the Sager-Brown experience for teens.

“I had a really good time at Sager-Brown! It was really fun and I would like to come back. I was the only youth among older adults, and I still made lots of friends working in the depot packing health kits. UMCOR and Sager-Brown make me feel proud for being a United Methodist knowing what all they do.”
“It was a very good time with friendly people plus good, homemade food, and nice rooms – not to mention the bayou outside the window! It was a very enjoyable mission trip and I hope to come back with a group of friends.” Sommer Ferguson, 13 years old, 8th grader, Kansas East Conference

“I have just returned from my first trip to Sager-Brown. What a blessing I received from this experience. Meeting new friends, fellowship and doing Gods will to help others. I must admit I didn't know what to expect. I was not disappointed. UMCOR Sager-Brown is a well organized machine with a wonderful staff and a friendly environment. Last week we worked on health kits and I also had the wonderful task of sewing up my first baby gown. What a wonderful feeling it was to know a small helpless baby would be wrapped in a new little gown and blanket. Much love and a prayer was poured into that little blanket. May God bless all the volunteers who are such a huge part in making this all happen. To my new UMCOR friends, thanks for the wonderful time. I'm already looking forward to next year.” Stella Rhodes, Lobelville United Methodist Church, Columbia District.

“I am humbled and thankful for the opportunity to volunteer at Sager-Brown. Words are inadequate to express my feelings; but Micah 6:8 sums this experience up for me—‘and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.’” Jean Reynolds, Kansas East Conference.

“Awesome! It’s just a great feeling to work together for the benefit of those less fortunate.” Gordon Reynolds, Kansas East Conference.

“When you go to Sager-Brown there is a place for every God given talent to be used. No experience necessary. There is also training for long term volunteers; which I plan on taking in the near future.” The Rev. Donna Higginbotham, Columbia District

“UMCOR Sager-Brown is a sacred place! It is very motivating and rewarding to connect your giving with the process of shipping out supplies and knowing every pencil, every bag, and every band-aid truly makes a difference.” Alice and Terry Langehenning, West Texas Conference.

The things I appreciate the most about volunteering at Sager-Brown:
+”Working on health kits in the Depot in harmony with others, good times!”
+”The wonderful, generous, helpful staff at Sager-Brown.” Fred Peter, California-Pacific Annual Conference

Would you like to be a Sager-Brown Depot volunteer?


Participants all agreed that the professional staff at Sager-Brown made everyone feel like family. Far right Tennessee’s Barbara Snell.

Want to volunteer as an individual, a married couple, a team from a local church or district? Contact Sager-Brown Depot by email to learn about the next opportunity for you or your team to become Sager-Brown volunteers – volunteers@sagerbrown.org or call toll free at 800-814-8765. If you or your team has construction skills/interests mention this when you make contact. To download a manual detailing the Sager-Brown experience and registration information go to the Sager-Brown website http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/work/sagerbrown/. On the right side of the home page you will see a listing for the manual, “Know Before You Go, A Manual for Volunteers at Sager-Brown.” Click where it says download. There is also a listing for a DVD on the work of UMCOR Sager-Brown—Depot of Hope. Click on the words “Watch Now! to view the DVD.

The Columbia District is planning to send a team to Sager-Brown from January 2-7, 2011. If you are interested in joining the Columbia District team, contact the Rev. Gary Wedgewood, gary.wedgewood@comcast.net



A prayerful reflection on Sager-Brown by Mary Loraine Davis, Gallatin First United Methodist Church


Mary Loraine Davis wears a pin signifying her attendance for 5 different years

I come to this mission site once again
to be your total servant, dear God.
My desires and wants are put aside,
‘tis only your voice I want to hear.
Now allow me to be able
to respond to the tasks you give me to do.
The time spent here will flee so fast!
But while here let me do my best at work,
fellowship, and meditation.
I must use my talents to help others and reach out across the globe to help those
that aren’t getting their daily needs met.

This mission, named Sager-Brown, can touch human lives
by sending out survival goods for daily and disaster needs.
These kits, cleaning buckets, blankets, health items, clothing
sent out from the Depot, are shipped away with a blessing
to travel miles to reach those who are in need of God’s love.
One can hear about UMCOR and give and send their prayers
and be so glad there is such a mission that exists.
I have just completed my 5th visit here
And each time I leave, I want to return again
I encourage all to come and experience it for themselves.

Conference Preteen groups provide gifts of warmth, concern to West Nashville children


                                                                                Creating great fringes is important.

Laura Feliciano, Hispanic Local Pastor at West Nashville United Methodist Church, and Patty Smith, Conference Director of Children and Family Ministries, got into a conversation that turned out to be God-inspired. Laura shared that there were many children in her community that needed gloves and scarves this winter to keep warm. Patty had a possible solution—perhaps several churches in the conference had pre-teen groups that would be willing to make scarves. There would be no knitting required. And certainly some churches could find gloves – even gently used gloves – to donate.






Everyone focused lovingly on the task at hand



Patty made contacts and Springfield First and Franklin First United Methodist Churches stepped forward. Both felt their kids would enjoy being involved in preparing scarves to be given out at West Nashville United Methodist Church on Christmas Eve morning, December 24th.


Close attention to detail by the Springfield First preteens

In the January 8th edition of THE REVIEW we showed photos of scarves being made by Franklin First preteens (The 2nd hour Tween Sunday school class) and being delivered to the Annual Conference Office. The Springfield First preteens (The Faith Travelers) finished their scarves a few days after Franklin First—with the same loving concern.

Happy Springfield First UMC Faith Travelers are pleased with their work

Laura Feliciano calls the breakfast party at West Nashville on December 24th a Theophany, “God with us! We were filled with God’s love and presence among us and no word better describes what we felt that precious morning than ‘Theophany.”

“Even though we were prepared to receive around 50 people, that number was considerably revamped. It was Godly! He provided for everything, including chefs and food.”








Young actors portray Mary and Joseph during “Breakfast in Bethlehem” while Laura Feliciano shares the Christmas story.





Patty Smith shares the new scarves: “Remember this as God’s love always with you.”


“There was such a great joy in the air at the “Breakfast in Bethlehem,” Feliciano continued in her narrative. “The Nativity Story was told, and Patty Smith led every parent in the process of draping scarves around the necks of each child (and spouse as well). As the scarves were handed out Patty noted that we were to ‘remember this as God’s love always with you.’
“My goodness. It was so emotional to see parents draping scarves around their children’s necks; and the couples, as they shared scarves with one another, were sealing the scene with kisses and hugs. Everybody was so happy!

Parental draping of the scarves was meaningful to children and parents alike.


                                                                  A gift accepted with eyes of wonder


 Gift of the scarf was often an emotional experience

Special thanks to Michelle Johnson from Springfield First and Sarah Carty and Becky Peeler from Franklin First UMC for working with their tweens to craft handmade scarves and also for the additional donation of gloves, hats, socks, etc.


 A larger than expected crowd meant that extra help in the kitchen was much appreciated.


Thanks also to those persons who helped cook breakfast—Patty Smith and her crew, Sheri Kimble and her friend from China who came by to visit and stayed to help. We also have deep appreciation for my friends and co-workers at the General Board of Discipleship and the Upper Room who made donations of food—Alma and Migdiel Perez, Theresa Santillan, Rev. Victor Perez, Deana Frederick, and others.






Even the dads took part in the draping of scarves








                                                                                                     The food was wonderful




The Abundant Life
From the December 2009 issue of Our Journey, Life and Ministry of Oliver Family in Malawi. Reprinted here by permission.



Jeff and Pastor Xaviour Chikwatu, pastor of Madisi Circuit.

Belmont United Methodist Church has had a lengthy relationship with the United Methodist Church in Malawi—at Christmas 2008 the church raised enough money so 16 villages could construct church buildings. At mid-year in 2009, living out a decision made early in the year, a young Belmont couple Jeff and Kara Oliver sold their home and moved to Malawi with two young children to serve as missionaries for a year. Here they reflect on their decision.

We came to Malawi seeking the abundant life – a life of joy, fulfillment, meaning and vocation. Somehow in Nashville we had not found it, or maybe more accurately, had not been disciplined enough to realize it. We longed for a life where our education, gifts and passions were used in direct service to others. When we began to seriously ask God where that intersection was and became open to any possibility, God led us to Malawi.




Carter demonstrates how to play "Duck Duck Goose". Children all over Malawi now know how the game is played thanks to Claire and Carter.

So, six months into this journey have we found the abundant life? Has stripping our lives of material possessions and voluntarily giving up luxuries like consistent water, electricity and fuel enabled us to feel the firm foundation beneath it all? Has leaving our family and friends been worth the experience of Christian fellowship we have experienced here? These are difficult questions to answer just days before Christmas when we feel the absence of all these things so keenly.

Claire proudly catches a chicken.

There were many times that one or more of us felt like we couldn’t move forward. The exhaustion and discomfort and frustration have been so high that we couldn’t possibly meet our commitments. But as we moved through each difficulty to another church visit or another worship service we were always surprised by wonder and filled with joy.

In August, we wanted to cancel the fourth church visit of the day but we drove over the bumpy dust road, grumbling the whole way only to be received with the most life-giving and Spirit-filled singing we had ever encountered. In October, after a grueling month of travel no one wanted to go to church but as we sat at Galilea UMC we were inspired. In November, after traveling for hours with eight people in the Rav4, we were greeted with such enthusiasm and warmth that we didn’t want to leave even as it grew dark.


The Women's Tailoring Program at Mzuzu United Methodist Church. The program is empowering this group of women with new skills to start tailoring businesses.

These moments have been pure grace, in-breaking of the Kingdom that we were privileged to witness. The people of Malawi live this paradox of daily scarcity and blessed abundance with such grace and hospitality.

I don’t know if we have fully realized the abundant life for ourselves but living in the midst of others who have is changing us, making our minds and spirits more porous, enabling the abundance to seep in.






Carter places a sticker on a young girl in Balaka, Malawi. The kids are a part of the ministry here too.





Jeff and Carter kayaking on Lake Malawi. We work hard and play hard! Time to rest is both important and necessary.

We have always maintained that the abundant life is available and being lived in the USA and in the very congregation from which we came. It’s just that we had built such a shell of comfort around us that we couldn’t access it, or it us. This journey is quickly dissolving that shell. Now the scarcity and the abundance wash over with all their power, sometimes leaving us dazed and wiping the salty tears from our eyes and other times providing amazing refreshment. Both extremes can be intimidating and thrilling. But we are constantly buoyed by the Spirit, Community and love of God at work in the world.
Support


Praise and worship at Zawadi UMC in Balaka, Malawi.

If you would like to support our ministry in Malawi financially, send donations to: Advance GCFA, P.O. Box 9068, GPO, New York, NY 10087-9068
Make checks payable to "GBGM". Memo line: "Advance #982465, for Jeff & Kara Oliver.

You can also support Jeff and Kara’s ministry by ordering some of Jeff’s best photographs. Jeff has recently launched a photo site and is selling some of his work to help raise funds.
http://photos.oliverville.org/


Presented Good Samaritan Award by United Methodist Men
G.R. Pulley, Eagle Scout mentors ‘at risk’ children
Reprinted from the winter 2010 issue of UMMen, the quarterly magazine of the General Commission on United Methodist Men. Used here by permission

Editor’s Note: The Good Samaritan Award is pesented by the General Commission on United Methodist Men to young people between the ages of 12 and 19 who demonstrate the attributes of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Recipients may be nominated by a pastor, scout leader, youth minister or any adult member of the church. Visit the "resources" section of GCUMM.org for details about the award.


G.R. Pulley, an Eagle Scout who recently received a Good Samaritan Award, takes a break on a Scout hike.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. G.R. Pulley was awarded the Good Samaritan Award for his work with children at the Salvation Army Magness-Potter Community Center, a Red Shield Family Initiative in which over 20 social-service providers assist at-risk families.

A member of Blakemore United Methodist Church, Nashville, Tennessee, G.R. has annually given more than 50 hours of community service in addition to four years of service on Warmth in Winter and Summer Sizzler program teams.

At age 13, he became the first member of Troop 17 to achieve the rank of Eagle and has since earned Bronze, Gold and Silver Eagle Palms. He has also received four 50-miler awards for hikes at Philmont Scout Ranch and Double H High Adventure Camp. He is now attending Tennessee State University on a football scholarship.

G.R. is the son of Scoutmaster Russ Pulley and the grandson of George Bass, former president of Blakemore UM Men.



Are You Thirsty?
Meditation by Cinde Lucas*
From Cinde Lucas’ email meditations. Used here by permission.


Cinde Lucas
When I'm really thirsty the one thing I desire most is a tall glass of ice cold water because nothing else satisfies like water. Likewise, when our spirit and soul become dried out and thirsty, we need to drink from the well of Living Water that God offers us.

How exactly do we drink from God's well of living water? Well the first thing we must do is recognize that we need it! Just like there are lots of things to drink to satisfy our natural thirst, there are many things that we can turn to in hopes of quenching our spiritual thirsts. Some turn to dangerous things like alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, or even cutting themselves; some become shop-aholics; some overeat; some become obsessed with perfection in everything they do; and some become depressed and just give up. All of these are symptoms of the thirst that is deep within us.

When Jesus met the woman at the well in Samaria in John 4, He knew that she needed more than just a pail of water. The life she was living was not a happy one. She was an outcast, living in sin, and hopelessly wondering from one dead end relationship to the next. She thought that if she could stay away from the mainstream of life, her misery would go unnoticed. But Jesus saw her in her misery and made a special trip just to meet her.

The truth is that Jesus saw every single one of us in our misery too. That's why He humbled Himself and came to earth. He lived a sinless life, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to show us that in all things we could trust Him to deliver us from evil. He gave His life as a living sacrifice and shed His blood so that we could receive forgiveness from all of our sins and become joint heirs with Him (Romans 8:17). His death opened the way for all of mankind to receive Living Water from the throne of God's grace so that we would never be thirsty for the ways for the world.

Unfortunately, the devil and the world have deceived us by making the water from their wells seem more desirable and accessible. We have turned away from our Creator and drank from the empty wells of lust, greed, and pride. Just like the woman at the well, we've had many affairs with other "gods" that haven't delivered what we had hoped they would. The graven images of the world are collapsing all around us and we are discovering that we are still thirsting for the truth that will set us free.

Jesus said that when we become weak, weary and heavy laden to come to Him and He will give us rest (Matthew 11:28). He said that He would freely give living water to all who would come and drink from His well (Rev. 21:6 & 17). You see the best that the world can offer us is ways to cope with our thirst, but these ways will never quench our parched lives. But the water that Jesus offers us not only satisfies our present thirsts, it actually becomes a well of living water inside of us that multiplies and grows within us so that we have a continual supply of Living Water!

Are you tired of drinking from the wells of man? Are you ready to turn from your old ways and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in paths of righteousness? The blood of Jesus has opened the way for you to come boldly into the throne room of God and ask Him to forgive you and receive help in your time of need (Hebrews 4:16). When you confess your sin, He is faithful to forgive you and restore you to right fellowship with Him (1 John 1:9). Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. He desires to give you Living Water that will refresh, restore and renew your soul. He has good plans for you and He wants to empower you to fulfill them. Apart from Him, you will continue to struggle and be thirsty. But when you align yourself with Him and live according to His way, God Himself will make all your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-8).

So I want to encourage you to examine your life. Are you really satisfied with where you are and what you're doing? Is your life producing good things? Are you experiencing an overflow of joy and peace? If not, then perhaps it's because deep down you are thirsty for the Living Water that only Jesus can give you. Turn and come back to Him and allow Him to fill you to overflowing with the fresh Living water of God's love for you!

Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive me for drinking from the wells of the world. I am tired, worn out and extremely thirsty for You. Fill my cup with Your Living Water and cause it to multiply and overflow in my life. I want to experience Your River of Living water in my life so I will never be tempted to draw from any other well again. In Jesus Name, Amen.

*Cinde Lucas is a Tennessee Conference evangelist, writer, song writer, performing musician, and Director of Overflow Ministries. Author of S-Words for LIFE! Take Up the Sword of the Spirit which is the Sword of God (Eph 6:17); and performing artist on a number of CDs including The Gift Goes On, I Am Blessed; This Thing Called Life; Live In Me; You Are The Door, and When I Pray. Contact her through her email address
cindelucas@hotmail.com or her website http://www.cindelucas.com/



Dr. Melodie G. Galloway new Musical Director of Junaluska Singers


Dr. Melodie G. Galloway

LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. – Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center is pleased to announce Dr. Melodie G. Galloway as the new Musical Director for the Lake Junaluska Singers (LJS) beginning January 1, 2010.

Dr. Galloway holds a Master’s degree from Florida State University in Vocal Performance and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting from the University of Greensboro. Her experience as a conductor and soprano soloist includes opera, oratorio, musical theatre, and a professional vocal ensemble, where she has been a soloist in Russia, Estonia, Ireland, England, and Spain. She is in regional demand as a conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. Her work in research includes two international conference presentations and an article written for the peer-reviewed UK journal, Studies in Musical Theatre, to be published in the January 2010 issue.

“We welcome Dr. Melodie Galloway to Lake Junaluska. As a former Lake Junaluska Singer, we are confident that Dr. Galloway will honor and strengthen the Junaluska Singers with her talent and direction,” said Jimmy L. Carr, Executive Director of Lake Junaluska.

Galloway is a Lake Junaluska Singer Alumna, having sung for several seasons. She has also served as a LJS accompanist, soloist, choreographer, and as the agent for orchestra personnel for LJS concerts.

“Dr. Galloway brings to this position a significant personal history with the Lake Junaluska Singers, a distinguished career as a soloist and choral and orchestral conductor, and a rich background in The United Methodist Church,” commented Roger Dowdy, Director of Ministry at Lake Junaluska.

Currently Dr. Galloway is an assistant professor in music at the University of North Carolina Ashville, directing the University Singers, the Chamber Singers, and Studio 18 - an advanced vocal jazz ensemble, and she is the Coordinator of Vocal Studies. After a busy performance schedule this season, the UNCA Chamber Singers have just returned from their third annual invitation-only performances for the Holiday Open House Celebrations at the White House and for the Wounded Warriors at Walter Reed Medical Center.

“Directing the Junaluska Singers represents a lifelong dream for me. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with this premiere ensemble and carry on the Singers’ and Dr. Draper’s incredible legacy of ministry and outreach through inspired, beautiful choral music,” said Galloway.

For a full biography and more information about Dr. Galloway, visit http://www.lakejunaluska.com/melodie-galloway/

Saturday, January 16, 2010

TENNESSEE CONFERENCE REVIEW January 8, 2010

Articles in the January 8, 2010 Issue of THE REVIEW



1. Two Preteen groups provide gifts of warmth and loving concern
2. Warmth in Winter is almost here—register your youth now for a life changing adventure, January 29-31
3. Tennessee Conference Announces At-Risk Children and Families Grant Funds
4. Cookeville District Completes Year of Lay Speaking Schools
5. SpouseConnect: blogsite established for the spouses of ministers
6. Kudos to Learning Express Toys
7. In two new resources Bishop Job seeks to create praying congregations
8. Boot Camp “Antorcha” – starting new Hispanic Faith Communities
9. Salvus Center provides medical services to uninsured working residents of Sumner County
10. Prayer garden coming together
11. Join the Spring Breakout at Mountain T.O.P. (Tennessee Outreach Project)!

_______________________




Two Preteen groups provide gifts of warmth and loving concern

In a conversation with Patty Smith, Conference Director of Children and Family Ministries, Laura Feliciano, the local pastor for the West Nashville Hispanic Ministry, revealed a tremendous need in her community—there were many children that needed gloves and scarves to keep warm this winter. As Laura and Patty continued to chat, Patty recalled a Christmas Eve service she had attended in 2008. Kids from the children’s ministry had made scarves and handed them out as people arrived for the worship service. It was powerful to see small children drape their homemade scarves around the necks of moms, dads, and grandparents. Everyone, young and old, grinned as they received their special gift. The pastor spoke about how the baby Jesus was wrapped in a blanket. She then made the connection to the scarves by saying as you wrap this scarf around you, remember the gift of God's Son and his great love for you.


Connectional system connects kids to Christ and each other! Scarves made by Franklin First pre-teens are brought to the conference office by Becky Peeler and Sarah Carty. From right to left Mary T Newman, Becky Peeler, Susan Padgett, Brad Fiscus, Sarah Carty, and Patty Smith.

“What if some of our preteen ministries,” Patty wondered, “could make scarves for these children--with no knitting involved? And, then what if some of our churches could find slightly used gloves to donate?” An email request went out to key people and the leaders of two pre-teen groups—at Franklin First and Springfield First United Methodist Churches—felt their kids would enjoy being involved.


2nd hour Tween Sunday school class at Franklin First displays the fruits of their labors from a Saturday Connection Fellowship event.. The tweens felt so good about what they had accomplished at Connection, they also made ornaments for some Assisted Living Center residents and collected many items for The Bethlehem Centers of Nashville.

Patty sent out some simple directions:

“Here's how the scarves are made—

• Purchase a few yards of patterned, colorful fleece fabric.
• Make a scarf pattern out of paper or cardboard.
• Kids trace the pattern on the fabric.
• Kids cut out the scarf and fringe the ends. Voila!


With pattern firmly in place one Franklin First tween prepares to cut fringes for the scarf on which she is working


On the morning of December 24, scarves, displaying the love of Jesus this Christmas season and made by loving hands at Franklin First and Springfield First, were given to kids at a special West Nashville UMC community breakfast.

And Patty sent a note of thanks to the leaders and preteens who made the scarves: Hi Angels, Thanks for partnering with the West Nashville UMC Hispanic Ministry to reach children for Jesus. This is truly evidence of God at work. Thanks you for being beautiful blessings in the lives of so many.” Patty


Warmth in Winter is almost here—register your youth now for a life changing adventure, January 29-31


The one and only crazy dance guy, Don Washburn

Year after year Warmth in Winter remains a pivotal event in Tennessee Conference youth ministry—as the new generation church leaders are enriched spiritually, energized, encouraged to bond with other young people from around the conference, and made aware of Christ’s love and uplifting presence in an often-times chaotic and despairing world. And year after year Warmth in Winter remains the largest gathering in the Tennessee Annual Conference including the yearly sessions of Annual Conference.

Your youth need to register before January 20, 2010, to receive the best rate, $55; but there is a “Hope It’s Not Too Late Rate” for registrants after January 20th but before the absolute deadline of January 25th for $65. Be sure to include a health/registration form for each youth and adult attending.

The 2010 Warmth in Winter is built on the theme “Going the Distance” and will be held January 29th – January 31st at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center, Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

There are a number of reasons why local church youth – from churches with only a few youth to congregations with many—should attend:

Pocket Full of Rocks
Exceptional music and worship leadership featuring Pocket Full of Rocks. This Dove nominated band finds its roots deep in the church. Their unique sound and engaging style helps all experience what it means to worship passionately. The members of PFoR are Michael Farren, Alisa Farren, David Rollins, Jody Crump, and Ryan Riggins.

Oh, and did we mention the Battle of the Bands. Each District in the Tennessee Conference will select a youth praise band to compete in the Battle of the Bands competition at Warmth in Winder during free time – and there are many other exciting free time opportunities in and around the convention center.


Guest Speaker, the Rev. Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil, a dynamic and prophetic speaker who ministers at conferences, on college campuses and in churches around the world. Her life mission is to “Inspire every mind and ignite every heart.” Through her speaking, teaching and writing, Dr. McNeil boldly declares a vision that unites people from every tribe and every nation.

Group activities led by the “Crazy Dances” guy, Don Washburn.

Lilly Lewin, nationally known Sacred Spaces and experiential worship space developer and author will design a Sacred Space for the weekend as well as teaching workshops on space design.

Exciting workshops on a variety of topics—each participant will attend two workshops. A listing of workshops will be available at http://tnumcyouth.org.

Two opportunities to contribute: l. The Youth Service Fund (Last year $10,000 was contributed during Warmth in Winter). This money goes to youth groups for service projects; 2. Canned goods and paper goods will be contributed for a supply drive for two pantry ministries to help the needy.

Resource area which will include representatives from mission trip organizations, youth ministry resources, colleges, and much more. This will also include on on-site Cokesbury store.

A brochure detailing daily schedule, registration procedure, possible housing arrangements, and a great deal of additional information can be downloaded by going to the website http://tnumcyouth.org and scrolling down the page to click on the words BROCHURE AND POSTER. And just below the link to the brochure is another link to the REGISTRATION FORM.



Tennessee Conference Announces At-Risk Children and Families Grant Funds


Dec. 4, 2009 – Patty Smith, Director of Children and Family Ministries for the TN Conference, today announced that the At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant Review Team invites proposals for faith-based ministry programs that directly engage children from birth up to and including age 12 from various ethnicities and demographics who are at-risk in Tennessee. A total of $25,000 will be awarded.


At-risk children are defined as children in one or more of the following circumstances: living at or below poverty level, from single-parent households, temporarily homeless, abused or neglected, having documented special needs, orphaned, or displaced suddenly by unforeseen, sudden situations (tornadoes, hurricanes, fire).

Grants will support programming or projects tailored to at-risk children and families targeted by local churches and other faith-based United Methodist initiatives.

The programs/projects should:

Help children at-risk know, love and follow Jesus.

Provide faith-based and Scriptural solutions to conditions/circumstances that place these children at-risk.

Contain intentional strategies to minister to and equip children and families who are at risk with the necessary tools to be successful.

At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant Review Team encourages programs/projects that:

Focus on intentional outreach and evangelism with specific follow up and plans for integration into the life of the local church. Programs/projects should reach a specific at-risk community that exists within close proximity to the local church.

Make faith development central to the program/project. Competitive proposals will have a team of leaders and volunteers whose expertise and passion is tailored to the particular needs of the project and the curriculum and/or design of program is Scripturally-based. The lead pastor of the applicant’s church should play an active role in shaping the project’s goals, implementation, and outcomes.

Collaborate with other churches to extend the reach of the project. Applicants are encouraged to capitalize on the connectional structure of the United Methodist Church and work with other churches to design and implement a multi-site or multi-church program or project as a means of increasing project resources (human and financial) to reach more at-risk children and families.


At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant Review Team will conduct two Grant Writing Seminars to help potential applicants compose grants for submission.

These workshops will be held at the Conference Office located at 304 S. Perimeter Park Drive 37211 on Tuesday, Jan 19, 2010 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 6, 2010 from 10-11:30 a.m. Interested At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant applicants are encouraged to attend these sessions. Please contact Mary T Newman at mtnewman@tnumc.org or 1.800.403.5795 to confirm your attendance. Further information about the grants and what should be included in a grant proposal can be found at the web address: http://www.tnumc.org/-_M_I_N_I_S_T_R_I_E_S_-/At-Risk_Children_and_Family_Grants/

Important Dates for the At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant

Grant Writing Seminars: Tuesday, Jan 19, 2010 and Saturday, February 6, 2010.
Grant Submission Deadline: Friday, March 5, 2010
Grants Awarded: Thursday, April 15, 2010

For additional information on the At-Risk Children and Families Fund Grant, contact Patty Smith at psmith@tnumc.org or 1.800.403.5795.



Cookeville District Completes Year of Lay Speaking Schools
By Holly Neal


Clarkrange UMC hosted the spring Lay Speaking School

The Cookeville District had an eventful year equipping Laity through Lay Speaking Ministries. Clarkrange UMC was host for the Spring Cookeville District Lay Speaking School. The Basic Course had 9 students and was taught by District Superintendent Jay Archer, Conference Director of Lay Speaking Ministries Betty Jo Forkner and Cookeville District Director of Lay Speaking Ministries Holly Neal. Pastor Welch taught the advanced course “Lay Speakers Grow Spiritually Through Daily Discipline” with thirteen completing the course.

Participants in the McMinnville Lay Speaking School

McMinnville UMC was host for the Fall Lay Speaking School. Twenty-five students participated in the Basic Course becoming Local Church Lay Speakers. Host Pastor Rev. Steve Angus led the Advanced Course “Lay Speakers Lead In Worship” with 15 participants. Six students completed the Advanced Course “Justice in Everyday Life” led by Certified Lay Speaker Ed Camera.

Eleven students took part in the Monterey UMC advanced course

The year concluded at Monterey UMC with 11 students taking part in the Advanced Course “From My Heart to Theirs” taught by Pastor James Johnson.



SpouseConnect: blogsite established for the spouses of ministers
By Kathy Armistead*


SpouseConnect was started because pastors’ spouses too often feel lonely, disconnected, and frustrated, and have no one they can openly, honestly share these feelings with.

Not long ago, I was at a gathering of other ministry spouses. Because we have known each other for years, the conversation quickly deepened beyond the usual, “Hi, where does your spouse serve?” One friend, in particular, shared how lonely being a minister’s spouse had been for her. Sadly, the rest of us agreed. But we also shared how there had been other spouses who mentored us and introduced us around. Mine was Mary Morris. But we felt that much of the mentoring was now lacking.

When I got home, frankly I got a little angry. Why does it have to be that way?

Well, you know, it doesn’t. So I started thinking about what to do about it. When I got to work on Monday, I approached my colleague, Jessica, also a pastor’s spouse, who is so much more computer savvy than me. Amazingly, she had similar thoughts. The end result is this blog.

We hope you will find some inspiration in the writings of other ministry spouses, and find people you connect with here. Feel free to join in on the conversation by commenting on posts that strike a chord.

Can I remain anonymous? Sure. We hope this will be a safe space for you to be yourself. If you feel safer commenting anonymously, that’s fine! Just click “Anonymous” when commenting.

Are there any rules here? Yes. No personal attacks. No inappropriate language. Be kind. This is the Internet, after all, so use good judgment.

What if I have questions? Contact the general SpouseConnect e-mail address at spouseconnect@gmail.com. The URL for the spouseconnect blogsite is: http://spouseconnect.blogspot.com/

As people intimately connected to the Church, we see the very best and the very worst of people. The purpose of this blog is to help bring out the very best as we live faith, shout hope, and love one another.

*Dr. Kathy Armistead is the spouse of the Rev. Charles (Skip) Armistead



Kudos to Learning Express Toys – Madness to Meaning

Ever been caught up in a parent marketing frenzy of "Beenie Babies", "iPods", "Tickle Me Elmo", or "Wii"? If not, you are one of the lucky few! Finally, someone found a way to take that frenzy and turn it into an effort of kindness for children who might not have the latest "hot" toy. In fact, if not for the good folks at Learning Express Toys in Franklin, Tennessee....these children might not have any toys at all. The result of their experiment was pretty amazing!

Just over six weeks ago, when the Christmas shopping war began, Learning Express Toys received their first shipment of Zhu Zhu Pets. They began to think of ways in which they could put these coveted toys to use in fundraising for local philanthropies. That's when they conceived of an innovative promotion to approach their loyal customers in a partnership effort to donate toys to non-profit agencies in the Nashville area who help support children and families who are struggling. The idea was to take a toy that was highly sought after and make it available for purchase with $50 donation of toys to children in need.

They developed the promotion, choose two non-profits related to children and families in need, advertised, and leaned forward to see what would happen! The two agencies that they chose to support this year were: BRIDGES of Williamson County and Miriam's Promise. BRIDGES (Building Recovery & Individual Dreams & Goals through Education & Support) offers help to the children and families who participate in their program. Miriam's Promise is a counseling and adoption services agency who assists pregnant women experiencing unplanned pregnancy, single moms, adoptive families and incarcerated women and their children.

Most customers who came in to participate in the promotion had not heard of Zhu Zhu Pets but were thrilled to easily purchase a funny little furry pet along with their receipt for their tax deductible donation! It is heartwarming to note that even in this season of craziness; there are those who find a way to offer their community a means to "give" without regard to what they will "receive". Kudos to Learning Express for finding a way to bring out the "best" in their customers and for offering them something "warm" and "fuzzy" in return!



In two new resources Bishop Job seeks to create praying congregations

When You Pray: Daily Practices for Prayerful Living by Rueben P. Job, Retail: $10.00.


This is an invaluable guide for people who want to start a daily prayer practice, discover ways to pray, and find spiritual practices that fit their individuality.

Used as a companion resource to Becoming a Praying Congregation, this book will give pastors, their team, and the congregation a shared context of prayer for the next year.

Each 4-page weekly segment includes:

Daily Scripture and prayer
A brief essay and a collection of quotes

The readings are linked to the Revised Common Lectionary to follow the worship and curriculum in congregations that use the lectionary, but can be used in churches that don’t use it.


Becoming a Praying Congregation with Rueben P. Job, Retail: $39:00.


Becoming a Praying Congregation is designed to reach the entire congregation through a variety of tools and ideas to encourage prayer as a way of life.

With an introduction by Bishop Rueben P. Job, Becoming a Praying Congregation explores new ways to incorporate meaningful prayer in worship and work to develop a unifying language that stimulates conversation about prayer.

Tools include:

Authentic help from leaders in congregations with active prayer ministries
Worship planning helps
Prayer activities
Planning ideas for Sunday school or small groups
Guidelines for building or reviving a prayer ministry team
Help for special services
DVD-Rom with art for worship and planning and other printable resources

Contributions from pastors, authors, and other thought-leaders move this twelve-month initiative through the entire congregation. The contributors include: Betty Shannon Cloyd; Sally Dyck; Pamela Hawkins; Andy Langford; Sally Langford; Joe E. Pennel; KC Ptomey; Rev. Becca Stevens; and others.

Churches participating in the program may visit http://www.becomingaprayingcongregation.com/ to connect with other churches.


Boot Camp “Antorcha” – starting new Hispanic Faith Communities
By Joaquin Garcia

Twenty Hispanic pastors and lay leadership from the Tennessee Conference attended the “Boot Camp”

Twenty pastors and lay persons from the Tennessee Conference participated in the Basic Training “Boot Camp” on starting new Hispanic Faith Communities with Jim Griffith November 17-19 in Atlanta. Not only was the training very helpful, but it was a great experience to interact with 80 other Hispanic pastors and leaders. Some highlights from the meeting were:

+ To fulfill the Great Commission and along with the Great Commandment as we start new Hispanic ministries
+ To understand that methods used in other countries or with other racial ethnic groups to start new faith communities cannot be transplanted to a unique situation in the present context as we start new Hispanic ministries.
+ To identify and be sensitive to a diversity of cultures and sub-cultures in the context where we are starting a new ministry.
+To develop a Ministry Action Plan for the 7 days of the week no just for one day of he week.
+ To establish goals about the number of persons to contact every week, “and it has to be many more than 24”!

Along with the training on how to start new “Antorcha” small neighborhood cell groups and then learning how and what it takes to start new Hispanic Faith Communities, the foundation for Hispanic Ministries has been well established in the Tennessee Conference in order to launch into the next stage.

The economic recession has affected our lifestyles, but the ministry of Jesus Christ must keep on. Building the Kingdom of God cannot be put on hold, nor reaching the Hispanic community that keeps growing, and now is the largest racial ethnic group in the United States. “We cannot be silent for such a time as this!”

Though some have talked about the number of Hispanic persons diminishing, [and there may be some isolated instances], the “Report Card” from the School Boards which goes to the Federal Government, shows that the student population has changed very little, and in some cases has inched up. That means that if there is this number of children in the schools, there are a significant number of adults behind those numbers. Let us remember that children and youth are our priorities, and Hispanic children and youth are not an exception.

“We cannot be silent for such a time as this!”



Salvus Center provides medical services to uninsured working residents of Sumner County

The mission of Salvus Center, Inc., is to be a faith-based health center that seeks to reclaim the Biblical and historical commitment to care for those who are sick and in need so they might experience wholeness, wellness, and healing.

Salvus Center was founded to address the lack of affordable medical care for uninsured, working residents of Sumner County, Tennessee. Area specialist physicians and hospitals work with Salvus to provide medical services when there is need for care that is beyond the scope of Salvus Center’s services.

The first Salvus Center clinic opened in Gallatin on March 20, 2006 and, through August 2009, the clinic has had 6,878 patient visits. In order to make services more accessible for residents of Hendersonville, a second clinic was opened in July 2008 at 107 Imperial Boulevard in Hendersonville. Patient visits at this site total 1,757. The Salvus Center vision is for all residents of Sumner County to have access to health care.

Patients pay for office visits on a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.


Dr. Ted Hill, M.D.

Dr. Ted Hill, M.D.,an ordained Deacon in the United Methodist Church, is founder and Medical Director of SALVAS, a medical service for the working poor. Donations to this special ministry can go to Salvus Center, Inc., 556 Hartsville Pike, Suite 200, Gallatin, TN 37066.

Walter Brueggemann writes about two things that make up prophetic vision – that divinely inspired insight and foresight that can bring healing change. The first thing that makes up prophetic vision is “criticality,” the ability to recognize the world’s pain.

The second element is hope, which is the recognition of the world’s possibilities. It is this combination of the critical eye and the hopeful heart that brings change. “We at Salvus,” notes Dr. Ted Hill, M.D., “certainly can see and feel and experience first-hand the pain of the world of those without health care. But we also have hope, not in the health care system per se but in that which is fueled by our faith—a faith that cares enough to work for possibilities that bring healing, wholeness and wellness. The challenge is to figure out how to break through to get other people’s attention—individuals who can help us bring hope and needed change. It is often the stories we tell of pain, yet hope, that enable us to communicate our values to others. The stories of our patients is the reason for hope.”


Prayer garden coming together
From the Marshall Tribune, Wednesday, November 18, 2009, used here with permission.
By Karen Hall, Staff Writer

A unique project is taking shape in a field beside one of Marshall County's rural churches.

The Prayer Garden at Farmington United Methodist Church - also known as "The Little Church at the Crossroads" - started just over a year ago with two maple trees planted to honor veterans. Next came a bench dedicated to the memory of Brenda Scott.

"I love flowers and I wanted to do something," said church member Edith Watkins. Her husband, Mike, weed eats and trims the garden.

"It's a wonderful project," enthuses the church's pastor, Rev. Leland Carden. "It's a spiritual oasis that people can visit to rest, meditate and pray. It's unique for this area."

"We used to leave the church unlocked," Watkins said. "Nowadays you can't do that." The garden, in the field between the church and Shelbyville Highway, provides a place for people to find peace at any time during their busy day.


“In the Prayer Garden. From left to right, Pattie and Dave Friedrichs, Edith Watkins, and the Rev. Leland T. Carden

It has been created entirely from donations, and centers on a birdbath, with stepping-stones in the shape of a cross leading up to it. There are numerous statues, shrubs, and trees, and several benches. Every item in the garden is labeled with the name of the person it memorializes or honors. In spring and summer there are colorful flowers. The garden's location in the middle of a field means that there is plenty of room to expand.

Watkins thanks Amy Potts from the Lewisburg Garden Center and Landscaping on 5th Avenue for guiding them as to what plants would do well in the open field.

A project for next spring is a gazebo, say Watkins and Carden.

Carden compliments the Farmington UMC, where he recently became pastor after retiring from the First United Methodist Church in Lewisburg.

"For a small congregation, they're very active; there's a lot of ministry being carried out here," Carden said.

The church runs the Robert Mason Center on Holly Grove Road, where people in need can get clothes and household items. The Department of Human Services and the Red Cross refer people there, and so far over 1000 people have been helped in 2009.

Names on the plaques in the prayer garden include Vanessa Gold Rush, Martha Brown, Brenda Scott, Clayton Russell, Mary V. Watkins, Sadie Tillman, Andrew and Frances Williams, Bro. Larry and Miss Sue Pedigo, Mrs. Robert Mason, Dale Friedrichs, Bill Gold, Kim Brugmann, Dorothy Thomas (three benches - one from each of her daughters), Kayla Mathis, Josh Hoppus, Bill Lowe, Maude Mette, Avery Badgett, Wade Jett, and Clyde and Elizabeth Whaley.


Join the Spring Breakout at Mountain T.O.P. (Tennessee Outreach Project)!

Mountain T.O.P., an interdenominational service project ministry dedicated to home repair in the Cumberland Mountains of Tennessee, is currently seeking participants for its Spring Breakout Program. Groups can choose their own dates mid-Feb through mid-April to spend two days working on Major Home Repair projects (roofing, remodeling, interior/exterior work) and two days helping out with camp renovations. This option is great for youth groups, college ministries or adult groups looking for a service project during the Spring months. No previous experience is necessary.

Dates: Mid Feb – Mid April

When: Arrive Sunday night, leave Friday morning

Cost: $200/person (all meals included)

For additional fees, campers can go caving, hiking, and/or through our low ropes challenge course!!

Feel free to visit our website: mountain-top.org. Check out our calendar for available dates. Please contact sam@mountain-top.org for more information or call (931) 692-3999