October 26, 2009

Pauline Hall regularly attends the first service of HCN. She is the mother of Dalene Barnett and a long-time resident of Trevecca Towers. At 93 years of age, she is moving to Ohio to live near her son. I will miss Pauline and her kind emails to me regarding preaching. She is an ordained elder in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ.

Congratulations to Heather Miller, a scholarship basketball player on Vol State’s Women’s Team for 2008-2010, who signed last week to play for Trevecca’s Lady Trojans in the fall of 2010. Heather will be reunited with her coach, Gary Van Atta, and her teammate/ sister, K.C. Van Atta. See Heather’s signing ceremony in the glass board in The Center.

Congratulations to Will Miranne who competed with his theatre class from DCA in a one-act “Flowers for Algernon” in the Tennessee State Theatre Festival in Cookeville on Saturday. The team placed first out of six high schools (all large except DCA).

Congratulations to the Fall Softball Team who won their last and only game of the season on Monday, October 19, 2009. Team members were Eric Owens, Brandon Shepard, Seth Alderman, Grant McCoy, Reed McCoy, Daniel Jones, Brian Brinkman, Dalton Winfree, Hunter Steinmetz, Toby Haydel, Philip Caulkins, and Kyle Russell.

A group of very talented ladies from HCN’s Women’s Ministries sponsored the second Seasonal Flair last Thursday evening. Pastor Rondy Smith sang their praises in pastoral staff meeting this morning. These were the women who made it all happen: Rachelle Reigard, Jennifer Neely, Kylee Koon, Kim Vann, Carol Clem, Natalie Lutz, Dottie Brown, Feli Tigabu, Janice Jones, Diane Cater, Jill Satterlee, Traci Hollandsworth, Beth Rouse, Lawana Jones, Stacey Sweeten, Marilyn Keener, and Beth Seaman.

Building One Senior High Students made their annual pilgrimage to Barnes Farm in Livingston, TN, for a fall camping retreat last weekend. Ron Barnes opens his arms, cabin, and family farm to our teens every year and cooks an audacious breakfast for them on Saturday morning. Steve Kelley served as special speaker and Bobby Smith served as chef, both Building One favorites. Chaperones were Pastor Shane Tarter, Carolyn Washing, Brady Plummer, Shaun Lewis, and Rondy Smith. Student campers were Anna-Laura Green, Sophie Green, Ashley Crues, Adrie Brown, Morgan Harold, Katelyn Houge, Christy Fite, Sara Vaden, Clair Burgette, Cassie Hunt, Presley Stinson, Alex Hamer, Jessica Dozier, Daniel Jones, Hunter Steinmetz, Taylor Steinmetz, Lucas Houge, Jonathan Tigabu, Brian Brinkman, Robert Luther, Reed McCoy, Grant McCoy, Dalton Winfree, Justin Jones, Toby Haydel, Eric Owens, Brandon Shepard, Bret Washing, Matt Bastin, Kyle Smith, Josh Cater, Jonathan Mowry, and Thomas Sharpe.

Senior Adults and Friends made their annual pilgrimage to the north Georgia mountains last Thursday through Saturday. Brenda Agee planned and organized the entire event and missed the action due to other responsibilities. We were housed at the Country Inn and Suites in Dalton. We ate both evening meals at Edna’s in Chatsworth. We visited the look-out at Fort Mountain State Park in Cohutta. We shopped and ate lunch in Ellijay and then toured the apple houses down Highway 52. Thanks to Charles and Nancy Jewell for driving their truck to transport our luggage. Thanks to Tommy and Mary Ann Boner for driving/hosting the van. Thanks to the rest of the gang for sharing the fudge, fruit slices, grapes, tangerines, pretzels and whatever else you dreamed of eating: Joy Bradley, Mary Alice Butler, Marsha Shultz, Dot Waffird, Pauline Harbin, Anna Plummer, Billie Ragland, Shirley Maschinski, Betty Willis, Alene Gill, and Carrie Knox. They let me go with them.

HCN’s Fall Fish Fry was big and food was the best yet. The fish was golden fried. The homecut fries and hushpuppies were delicious. The slaw and beans were the perfect sides. Would you believe that none of the fried foods were put in oil until 4:15 PM? How did they cook that much food in that length of time? Wayne McNeese ran the show and recruited his team. These are the people to thank: Jason Vines, Kevin Daugherty, Kris Neely, Dan Scott, Tim Garrett, Tom Stephens, Ken Willis, Paul Stonecipher, J.D. Hisey, Ronnie Marsh, Ken Koon, Jon Nelson, Marty Peach, Kenny McNeese, John Jordan, Phil Stinson, Bobby Smith, Webb Trojan, Glen Detwiler, Ken Elkins, Mike Anderson, Rick Person, Dean Beach, Jonathan Beach, Ricky McNeese. Kitchen workers who prepared all set-ups and food delivery were Pam McNeese, Lisa Anderson, Dianne McNeese, Kylee Koon, Joyce Clevenger, Pam Stonecipher, Kim Vann, Jennifer Neely, Chandler Scott, Jill Satterlee, and Beth Vines. The Genesis Sunday School Class handled all table set-ups and clean-up afterwards. Ken Willis, Glen Detwiler, and Dan Scott provided the wood for the bonfire. I think it would please everyone to know that Beth Vines and some of our young people transported all of the leftovers to the Nashville Rescue Mission. Beth said the mission was excited to receive such amazing food.

Beth Vines serves as the Director of Human Resources at Remarketing Solutions. Currently, there are three jobs posted for immediate need including District Manager, Skip Trace Investigator, and Vice President of Operations. If you are qualified and interested in any of the jobs, contact Beth at 762-2210 or email her at beth.vines@ remarketingsolution.com.

I look forward to Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

October 19, 2009

EverPraise opened both worship services yesterday with voice and spirit. They are eight students from Trevecca Nazarene University presenting the gospel in musical story. The two young men who played guitar and the percussion box are twins: Parker and Jordan Guthrie from Bradenton, Florida. They are freshmen. Their dad and mom are extremely talented musicians who served on pastoral staff with us when the boys were born. What gracious, talented young men they have become. One of our young senior high students posted on Facebook after church that he was switching from drums to box. One of our freshman college students, home for fall break, told me he forgot how much he missed his church.

HCN’s Fall Fish Fry is served this Sunday, October 25, 2009, at 5:00 PM on the west end of the campus. Wayne McNeese, CEO for the cooking team, requests a VIP meeting of all the cooks at 10:00 AM in the Church Kitchen. This is the fifteen minute block for transitions between services. These are the people who make or break the evening. Please be there to receive schedules and information from Wayne. The Fish Fry is a simple all church feast of fried fish, homecut fries, hushpuppies, slaw. The church provides the first courses. Everyone else is asked to bring their favorite dessert and a large drink. Wear outdoor clothes. Dress for cool weather. Bring outdoor games to play and outdoor chairs to sit in. This is not a come play in the gym night. It is a get yourself outside and talk to somebody night.

When a local Church of the Nazarene calls a pastor, the church board does the interviewing, and eventually the church membership (15 years of age and older), does the voting. That vote extends for a term of two years. After two years, the district superin-tendent meets with the church board to determine if the relationship between the pastor and church remains positive. If it is positive, the church board votes to extend the term of service for two, three, or four more years. If it is not positive, the church board discusses ways to resolve conflict with the pastor and may vote to call a vote of the congregation on continued pastoral relations. HCN extended the initial call to me to pastor the church in August of 1995. Two years later, in 1997, the church board extended the call for four years. Another four year call was extended in 2001 and 2005. It is 2009 and time for another evaluation. Dr. Larry Leonard, Superintendent of the Tennessee District, meets with the HCN Church Board on Thursday, October 29, 2009, at 7:00 PM in the Center Parlor. Church Board members are Tony Dozier, Kendell Poole, John Reigard, Aaron Foster, Steve Kelley, Matthew Mullins, Beverly Sharpe, Jennifer Neely, Scott Perkins, John Mannen, Phil Jordan, David Hunt, Brad Houser, Scott Steinmetz, Mike Miranne, Donna Shankle, Marvin Heath, and Kristi Mabry. If you would like to communicate with one of these board members regarding the continuing or discontinuing of current pastoral relations, consult your church directory for phone numbers or call the church office. All of this sounds very negative and makes people nervous and wonder what they do not know. The truth is: there is nothing negative happening and this is simply a required, official announcement. Results from the board meeting will be announced on Sunday, November 1, 2009. We all pray for God’s will to be made known to us.

The Pastoral Staff Team visited with Sam Green this morning at Centennial Medical Center. Sam is having a good day, free from nausea, bored, ready to be on to the next good thing that brings wholeness to his body. He is up and smiling and acting like Sam. Pray that Sam remains free from infections and viruses as his blood counts balance where the doctors desire. Pray for the safety and health of Keli, Anna-Laura, Sophia, and Bella.

Continued thanks are extended to Tammy Tarter, Donny Jackson, and every instrumenta-list, band member, choir member, and praise team member who faithfully provides the ministry of music in Sam’s absence. I believe it is a testimony to the character of the church that we continue to worship and serve and be present during the illness and absence of a talented, gifted brother.

I look forward to Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

October 12, 2009

Congratulations to Andrew Richard Nelson and Katie Nicole Stonecipher who were joined in marriage on Friday, October 10, 2009, at 6:30 PM in the sanctuary of Hermitage Church of the Nazarene. Katie is the daughter of Paul and Pam Stonecipher and the sister of Christy Stonecipher. Christy served as Katie’s maid of honor. The reception was held at the Old Hickory Country Club. Andrew’s groomsmen were the coolest, most attentive group of attendants I have ever witnessed on their wedding day. It was like having seven best men. Katie was a beautiful, jubilant bride. We celebrate the joining of this couple in marriage and the love they bring to share with one another for the rest of their lives.

Congratulations to Sarah Harris on her outstanding accomplishments in the game of golf. She was named “Player of the Year” in the Girls 15-18 Masters Division of the Tennessee Golf Association Junior Tour, winning the year end Tournament of Champions event with a final round of 72. She won the Division 2A High School Regionals (east/middle Tennessee) as an individual and as a member of her DCA team. She won the Division 2A High School State Tournament last week as an individual and as a member of the DCA team. She shot 75-72 (+3) during the two day event. In the process, Sarah was commended for her display of good character, composure, and sports-manship. Congratulations to Sarah Harris, State Champion!

Congratulations to Dan Preston, nominated to become the Chairman of the Tennessee State Kairos Committee. The election is Saturday, November 14, 2009. Dan’s heart is serving the Lord in ministering to prison inmates throughout the southeastern USA.

Jamell Emerson was recognized in second worship on Sunday as he prepares to leave for the completion of his military duty in Iraq. He told me to tell you that your prayers for him have been effective. Four times his squad was attacked at the threat of his life and four times, his life was spared.

Sam Green begins the fifth and last day of his chemotherapy treatment this afternoon and completes it in the morning (Tuesday). The pastoral staff team visited with Sam at lunch. He had an elevated fever and did not feel well. Pray that the chemotherapy destroys the remaining leukemia cells in his body; that Sam stays free of viruses and infections; that he begins to feel better. He could be home by the end of the week for the next waiting period. Follow Sam’s daily progress at www.samandthegreens.com.

Diane Cater placed a wicker basket in The Center Lobby on Sunday for the purpose of collecting dolls for a particular service project. It was there through Sunday morning services but gone by the evening. If you know where the basket was relocated, please call the church office at 847-3335 to let someone know. Thanks.

EverPraise is an eight member, young adult ensemble from Trevecca Nazarene University. The group visits HCN this Sunday to share in the musical section of worship in each service. They will provide the opening song and the offertory before preaching. It is always good to have visitors from TNU. Greet them with me.

There are a series of events just ahead in the life of HCN that would be easy to miss if you do not get them on your calendar NOW. Would you take a moment and look at your schedule and make room?

• Seasonal Flair is a once per year event for ladies where ideas are shared to warm your heart and home for the holidays. It is scheduled for Thursday, October 22, 2009, at 6:30 PM in The Center. I believe in the ladies who are presenting this activity. Cost is $5 with tickets to be purchased in the Foyer and the Lobby.
• Candy Parade is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2009, at 6:30 PM in The Center. It is an invitation for preschool and elementary children through grade 4 to wear costumes (appeal to parents for appropriateness), and to parade through the Center to receive treats from church families. All adults are encouraged to bring candy for 200+ children and to find a chair in the circle to share your goodies.
• Fall Festival Fish Fry is the largest all church social event at HCN. Wayne McNeese leads teams of cooks in preparing fried fish, hushpuppies, and homecut fries outdoors. The date is Sunday, October 25, 2009, at 5:00 PM. The location is the west end of the church campus.
• Heritage Men’s Chorale visits HCN on Friday, October 30, 2009, at 7:00 PM in the Sanctuary. The chorale sings sacred hymns and compositions. It is composed largely of TNU alumni. You will recognize a number of men from the HCN congregation.

I look forward to a return from fall break schedules which keep us scattered. I like routine and I miss you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

October 5, 2009

The preaching series in the biblical book of James ended yesterday. Many of you have talked to me after services; called me on the phone; sent emails to let me know that you listened closely. I am hoping that the mirror in which we saw ourselves in chapter 1 remains with us so that our lives are changed, so that we do not merely listen to the word but do the word. Are you talking to the people who have wandered?

Thanks to the crew of volunteers who continue to supply leadership for music/worship needs in the absence of Sam Green, our Pastor of Worship. Thanks to Tammy Tarter, Bryce Fox, Donny Jackson, John Jordan, Paul Vann, Emily Sullivan, Ricky Gore, Dave Flint, Paul Bolling, Randy Layne, Graham Scott, Jay Barfield, Willard Brinkman, Michael Waller, Worship Choir members. Not one person has told me “no” when I have called to ask for help. Thanks for honoring Sam with your labor. Thanks for making the difference in our worship.

Sam Green had his head shaved last Friday to get ahead of the hair that was letting go due to chemotherapy. His smile remains big. The pastoral staff team visited with Sam and Keli this morning. We wear masks and choke and talk. One way to make a preacher shut up is to make him wear a mask to catch his hot air. Sam has the second bone marrow biopsy tomorrow (Tuesday), to determine if all the leukemia cells are gone. Crazy as it seems, Sam could be back with us in the not too distant future while he awaits the bone marrow transplant. Pray for Sam.

Kris Hostetler deploys on October 20, 2009, for his second tour of duty with the US Army in Iraq. We took the opportunity to pray for Kris on Sunday during second service while he was in town. Connect the face with name you will hear called for the next year.

Congratulations to Bret Washing on his selection to the Middle Tennessee Vocal Association Freshman Honors Choir. There were twenty slots open for freshmen and Bret was the third chosen.

Congratulations to Taylor Gonyea, a member of the 2009 Homecoming Court, at Mt. Juliet Middle School.

Paul Stonecipher led the Room-in-the-Inn organization yesterday for the 2009-2010 season of hosting dates. At this writing, we host on nine evenings. Needs remain for the following items: disposable razors, chap stick, toothbrushes, combs, underwear (L, XL, 2XL), tee shirts (L, XL, 2XL, 3XL).

Tim Garrett called this morning to say his plant is hiring again through the end of October. If you need work, call Tim at 350-7630.

If you see Jill, Gaby or Nick Satterlee at church, your eyes are not deceiving you. They decided they could not live without us and have returned home to Tennessee. Their house is rented for a year so they are living with Franky and Missy Mize. Jill returns as our Wednesday night chef this week. Welcome home. You are loved.

A Baptismal Service is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2009, at 5:00 PM in the sanctuary. In the New Testament Church, all believers were baptized as immediately as possible. Paul baptized in the middle of the night. Stephen baptized on the side of the road. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ and need to be baptized, please call the church office to be placed on the list of candidates.

If you missed someone from worship yesterday, it may be they are out-of-town due to the Wilson County School Break which began last Friday. You may miss them for several more Sundays as the break continues for two weeks. While part of our family is resting and recreating, please know that all things continue full throttle at HCN. I plan to be here each Sunday and it would be nice to see you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard