Most of all have a very Merry Christmas. May the love of our Heavenly Father fill your hearts with the gravity of His gift to us that Christmas morning.
Our Men's fellowship has been postponed to an undetermined date due to the winter weather. Please look out for the new date.
Also, our Children's program "How Far is it to Bethlehem" has been rescheduled to this Sunday night, December 19th at 6pm. We will have a chili supper prior to the program.
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Don't forget that this Sunday is communion Sunday. We will be taking our 2010 PCA Christmas Offering, as well as, our regular member benevolence offering.
Please remember to bring non-perishable food items, men's winter clothes or shoes, or diapers for the Help center.
Beginning in January, we will not be mailing our church newsletter. You may view it in color on this site. But don't worry, we'll have hard copies in the foyer that you can pick up if you don't have internet access or just prefer a hard copy! To get a closer look at the images double click on the pages until it's large enough for you to view.
We'll be decorating the church and trimming the tree on Wednesday at 10am. Please join us! We'll be having a brunch as well, bring your favorite brunch item!
If you weren't able to get a good look at all we were able to buy for the children of the Nashville Rescue Mission as a result of our Dessert Auction, here is the picture.
Thank you so much for bringing canned goods to our Thanksgiving dinner for the Help Center. If you forgot or were not able to attend, please bring non-perishable items this Sunday and put them in the grocery cart in the foyer.
Also, The Help Center called and is in need of diapers, men’s winter clothes and shoes.If you can donate any of these items, please put them in the grocery cart in the foyer. Gently used clothes are accepted.
I want to remind everyone about our Thanksgiving dinner on Wednesday, November 17th at 6:00pm. The church is providing turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, rolls and drinks. Please bring your side item: Members A-F (vegetables), G-L (starch), M-R (salad) and S-Z (desserts).
Also, while you are preparing your side item, bring a couple canned goods or non-perishable items for the Goodlettsville Help Center. The grocery basket will be out in the foyer.
This Thursday, November 11, Bethany Christian Services is hosting their annual New Friend's Dessert Reception and Silent Auction. I have personally been involved with this event for the last five years, and it is a tremendous organization that not only places children with their forever families, but also ministers to the women who come for help in desperate times of their lives.
So, if you don't have plans for Thursday evening, join us. They have free childcare, though you need to RSVP for that AND there will be great music!
For about a year now I have used this blog to update the women of the church about the goings on in the ministry. It has proven to be very effective, so I thought I'd begin updating you this way as well. I have changed the name of the blog to:
faithprespca.blogspot.com
I will send everyone an e-mail when I have added a new blog.
I wanted to remind you about our Reformation Party this weekend at the Threet's home. I hope you can join us for this fun time of fellowship!
Don't forget about the Dessert auction and special music this Saturday night to raise money for the children of the Nashville Rescue Mission. It's gonna be a great time AND it's for a great cause.
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And don't forget about our Woman2Woman event. This particular event offers free lunch this month, but you do need to sign up! Contact Jennifer Smithfield for further information!
It's been quite a while since our last update, but it's time to get our women's ministry up and rolling again.
For those of you who missed our Fall Kick-off, here is a brief overview of what we discussed:
Our theme for our Women's Ministry this year is SERVICE. We have chosen 1 Peter 4:7-11 as our Bible verse.
____ Natalie Howald is taking over hospitality on Sunday mornings. If you can bring cookies, please sign-up on the sign-up sheet or contact Natalie directly.
Faye Jones is still heading up our meals ministry. If you are able to prepare a meal for those in need, please sign up in the foyer or contact Faye Jones.
Nikki Marsh is in charge of our Prayer chain. If you want to be a part of that ministry OR if you have a prayer request, please contact Nikki.
___ Our Bible Study starts up tomorrow, September 15th from 10a-12p. We are studying Harris Langford's book, Hope in Hard Times, Studies in the Book of Ruth. Peggy Duncan will be leading us and we will have childcare available.
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POWER VERSE:
1 Peter 4:7-11
The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has receive a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. AMEN.
Our Ladies Bible Study is coming to an end. We have two more weeks of our study. Our last study date is May 19th! If you couldn't participate this year, please consider it for next year.
General Assembly is coming up. Please keep your eyes open for ways to both volunteer and participate in this exciting event. Due to the floods the Volunteer Meeting was postponed. Date is to be determined.
Please let me know of any summer things you'd like me to add to the blog. They don't have to be related to church persay. You can include something you're involved in, a local ministry opportunity, a fun family friendly event. Let us know if you are in a play, involved in a farmer's market, know of free or inexpensive events, etc. etc. Just e-mail me at lisaaskATcomcast.net.
We have several opportunities to donate time, money and items. There is no way to help all of them, but try to pick a couple that you are particularly passionate about! You can help in small and large ways!
The Nashville presbytery will be taking a collection for the floods in Nashville.
Our own, Natalie Howald, and her husband are catching a plane to Africa in June. She needs some items to help her mission there.
small stuffed animals
Bibles or devotional items
hard candy
children's vitamins (please no gummies)
$$, make checks payable to Faith Pres with "Natalie Howald to Africa" in memo
Erin Storment is taking a mission trip this summer. If you would like to help, please make check payable to Faith Pres and include Erin "Storment/Mission trip" in the memo.
Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy Center is in need of diapers size 4,5 & 6. Please put them in the crib in the foyer. Also, please pick up a bottle and fill it with change.
Another way to support the Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy center is to participate in the Hendersonville Classic:
Come be a part of an exciting event on this Memorial Day. The Hendersonville Classic is a 5K/10K/ 1 mile fun walk/run that raises funds for the Cumberland Crisis Pregnancy Center. The website www.hendersonvilleclassic.org has details about the race and, as always, you can register online at www.active.com.
These are very challenging times, and I would like to ask you to consider helping us assist women, babies, and families in need by having your friends/associates sponsor you in the race. You can set up a fundraising page at www.active.com/donate/hendersonvilleclassi and email the link to your friends. They can donate online, and all donations are tax deductible. You can also print out a pledge form from the Hendersonville Classic website.
2.) Work Day at the church will be this Saturday, March 20 from 8am-12pm.
3.) Don't forget about the Decorating on a Budget class this Saturday, MARCH 20 at the church from 2-4pm at the house. 4.) A Beth Moore Simulcast Eventwill be held at Temple Baptist in White House on April 2th from 9-3pm. Please click on the link to find out more information.
This Sunday remind the men in your life to attend the Father/Son luncheon at church. Since our men are all Sons of the King, all men of all ages are invited.
The ladies Bible Study will be reviewing chapter 11 next Wednesday.
Be sure to be in prayer for Pastor Richard as he travels to Sri Lanka.
POWER VERSE: Proverbs 3:5-8 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. 8 It will be healing to your flesh[2] and refreshment[3] to your bones.
I have included some FAQ's regarding our spring retreat in March. Please take note that the deadline has been extended until February 14th. WECC is going to be sending me a brochure with more details, if I receive them by Sunday, I'll put them in the foyer!
Frequently Asked Questions:
*Who is invited to the retreat?
ALL WOMEN who are 18 yrs and older. No matter whether you are married, not married, divorced, have kids, no kids, grandmother, etc....ALL WOMEN ARE INVITED!!!
*What are the costs?
If you want to share your room with one other person the cost is $155 per person. If you want to cut costs by sharing (4) to a room, the cost is $110 per person. Prices include room and food expenses.
*What will be the topics discussed?
The Names of God AND who God says we are in light of who He is! Shannon Truss is the speaker!
*How far is Natchez Trace State Park?
About 90 miles WEST straight out I-40 and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to arrive there.
*Will the price be the same if I arrive on Saturday or if I only want to spend one night at the resort?
The cost is the same no matter what night you show up or if you decide to leave early. Sorry, no discount on the retreat (unless someone needs a scholarship). However, a scholarship can only be applied to the (4) room cost of $110 per person.
NOTE DEADLINE EXTENSION *When is the last day to pay?
Sunday, February 14th. Please make check out to "West End Community Church" and give Lisa Ask the check no later than February 14th. Make sure to include "women's retreat" in the note section of your check.
*Who do we contact with questions?
Lisa Ask 615-504-3409 or lisaaskATcomcast.net
*If I want to share a ride with someone, who do I contact?
Lisa Ask 615-504-3409 or lisaaskATcomcast.net
*How do I sign-up?
CLICK HERE and register. Then give check to Lisa Ask made out to West End Community Church.
Good Day Ladies. I hope this update finds you well and blessed.
UPCOMING: *Don't forget to sign up for the Women's Spring Retreat with WECC. The final day to register is February 7th.
*Like last year's Father/Daughter luncheon, we will be having a Father/Son lunch on February 21st. If you are able to help with preparing food or serving, please contact Kim Threet.
BIBLE STUDY: *Our next ladies Bible Study is WEDNESDAY, February, 3rd. We begin Chapter 10 in our lesson on Job. Although we have already been through 9 chapters, you are still welcome to participate. Please contact Lisa Ask if you need the lesson to participate. Light snacks and childcare are provided.
*Nikki Marsh was so kind to set out Bible Reading Plans. If you are looking for a way to get into the word, please pick up a copy in the foyer in the church. There are several options for study.
PLUG IN: If you are looking for a way to plug in, we have many opportunities open. Plug IN!
NEED SUPPORT OR ACCOUNTABILITY: Making Peace with your Past is a support/accountability group for people who grew up in a dysfunctional home. This group is designed for small groups that meet and discuss the content of the book and share similar experiences. Everything is kept very confidential. This course will be offered again this year at FPC (four ladies at FPC completed this course last year). If anyone is interested or would like more information, please call Barbara Harris at 681-7339.
POWER VERSE: We discussed in Bible Study this week about how familiar we are with words such as: mercy, grace, salvation, savior, faith. This week as we study the word, resonate of these words and their meanings.
Titus 3:3-7
3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
March 26-28 Retreat with West End Community Church at Natchez Trace State Park. Deadline for payment and registration is February 7th. Visit westendcc.org/springretreat to register and give me your check so I can mail it in by February 7th.
Bible Study News
We will begin Chapter 9 this Monday. Please join us.
Power Verse
When I saw this verse it made me think of the heartbreaking destruction in Haiti. Here on earth, as we all know, there is destruction, pain and death. But the verse in 2nd Corinthians should give us hope for the eternal things. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, 18 as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
Do you have something to share?
For example: I have difficulty planning meals. By dinnertime I am trying to figure out what to make out of a jar of peanut butter, frozen broccoli and a box of instant rice.I am quite sure that the Iron Chef's could make something dreamy, but me, no. So a friend of mine showed me E-Mealz.com. It is a meal planning site. I've given it a try and so far it works great for me. So if you aren't an Iron Chef either, you may want to take a look at this, too.
All that to say, I would be happy to post factoids, announcements, dates of consignment sales, and other items that would benefit the well-being of our women. Of course, I'd have to review the content and all that jazz, but I am sure you understand.
Well, I am delighted to tell you that on January 23rd (DATE CHANGED TO MARCH) from 2-4 Natalie Howald will be presenting "Decorating on a Budget". We will all meet at the church for this wonderful event. If you haven't yet been to one of our "classes", you are really missing out. So far we have learned about aerobic exercise, mindful eating, corresponding in the 21st century, safety on the internet and smart cooking. If you think we're all sitting around quietly and taking notes, you have the wrong impression of what we're doing.
West End Community Church contacted me about whether or not the ladies of Faith are interested in tagging along with them again on their retreat this year. The retreat is March 26-28 at Natchez Trace State Park.One of my favorite people, Shannon Truss, is leading the series this year. She is teaching "It is not what you are retreating from, but who you are retreating to". To sign up please go to www.westendcc.org/springretreat . Please contact me if you are interested, so I can have a headcount. Deadline is February 7th.
The Women's Bible Study will be doing chapter eight this week. We had much to catch up on and pray for; therefore, we will be discussing the lesson this Monday. Beginning Wednesday, February 3rd we will be changing our Bible Study from Monday to Wednesday. Please join us if you are able.
Scotty Smith will be leading the Taste and See seminar at Covenant Presbyterian in Green Hills on January 21st. For more information, please contact Jennifer Smithfield.
Lastly. I am going to leave you with an inspiring Bible Verse from Job.
Job 19:25-27 25 For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. 26 And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, 27 whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. My heart faints within me!
Monday, January 11 - Bible Study starts back up. We're on Chapter 8. Childcare is provided.
Thursday, January 21 - Taste and See at Covenant Presbyterian from 11-1. See Jennifer Smithfield for carpooling.
Saturday, January 23 - Biblical Womanhood Series, Designing on a Budget. At the church from 2-4pm.
Power Verse Lamentations 3:22-24 22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”
Don't forget about our Faith Presbyterian Cookbook. We have about fifty-five left. We are requesting a $5 donation per cookbook. Load up!