December 5, 2011

HCN’s Children’s Ministries presented “Christmas Gifts” from the Lamb’s Club Children and “A King Is Coming To Town” from the His Kids Crew on Sunday, December 4, 2011, at 6:00 PM in The Center. The Lamb’s Club (pre-school) program was directed by Amy Slocum with assistance from Adrie Brown and Rachel Jones. Toddler I Bell Ringers were Liam Boling, Zoie Butler, Addiston Miller, Katie Grace Walvoord, Lanie Kate Jordan, Atalaya Biggs, Gibson Lutz, and Porter Hood. Handbell Ringers were Caeden Boling, Megan Ermshar, Tyler Koon, Harper Kate Miles, Kennedy Plummer, Carson Slocum, and Nicholas York. Speakers were Caeden Boling, Megan Ermshar, Tyler Koon, Harper Kate Miles, Kennedy Plummer, Carson Slocum, Nicholas York, Kyler Kelley, Cole Petroff, Owen Agee, Mercedes Greathouse, Bryan Ermshar, and Seth Stride. Nativity Scene Characters were Mason Beach, Emmy Biggs, Amanda Dillon, Ellianna Gamble, Brandon Helm, Keegan Lutz, Emma Petroff, Lucas Waller, Lucia Greathouse, Cooper Jordan, Emilee Koon, Larry Douglas Pardue, Leyton Plummer, Austin Reigard, Jake Stride, Caroline Walker, and Savannah Szyperski.

Tammy Tarter served as His Kids’ general director, with assistants, Julie Groover and Jessica Agee in music and April Swoner and Kristin Jordan in drama. Robert Sullivan ran sound and lights. Jody Scott and Betty Willis prepared the set. The cast for “A King Is Coming To Town” included Caroline Brasfield, Reid Swoner, Trey McNeese, Johnny Pilarski, Jackson Barfield, Selah Coppedge, Summerlyn Hysell, Carter Poole, Stephen Swoner, Rebecca Eiseman, Eva Harris, Madi Slocum, Regan Perkins, and Bethany Webb. Vocalists included Hutson Miles, Sydney Webb, Kyler Kelley, Parker Hollandsworth, Briley Ruff, Bryan Ermshar, Will Stride, Stephen Swoner, Ashlynn Lounsbury, Regan Perkins, Elizabeth Foster, Brooke Bradley, Victoria Hood, William Dillon, Katelyn Brown, Cole Petroff, Owen Agee, Gracie Lee, Sydney Williams, Dillon Massey, Michael Spraker, David Paddon, Christian Rios, Elizabeth Stinson, Gant Brasfield, Camille Reigard, Miranda Spraker, Preston Davis, Brenae Fox, Mercedes Greathouse, Hannah Holderby, Alexi Baltz, Gabby Rouse, Alex Sullivan, Rebecca Eiseman, Madison McNeese, Annalee Poole, Isabella Stinson, Alyssa Mannen, Bethany Webb, Tristan Lee, Breelyn Ruff, Seth Stride, Ian Rouse, Ava Davis, Mia Agee, Dakota Biggs, Eva Harris, Ethan Foster, Abby Reigard, Madi Slocum, Brooklyn Fox, Lyric Gray, and Mary Dillon. I think if you count, there were sixty plus children in the production.

Pastor Carol Waller said people wrapped boxes, herded animals, practiced lines, painted signs, fluffed trees, hung a set, ran power point, invested in the lives of children. Thanks to all parents and children and directors who allowed the rest of us to listen and to see.

Thanks to the Genesis Sunday School Class for providing set-up and for receiving and preparing the food for the rest of us. Thanks to all who brought food to feed our guests. Thanks to the Senior High B1 Students who broke down the chairs and tables and assisted with clean-up.

Steven and Ginger Magee moved with their children to Middle Tennessee from Colorado last year. They brought with them a great desire to begin a teen Bible Quiz program at HCN and they have. Their sons, Taran, Josiah, Daniel, and Nolan were joined by Bryce Poole in this first year, quizzing on the book of Hebrews. In several weeks, I and II Peter will be added to the mix. Half way through the Tennessee District season, Bryce and Nolan have placed in the top five for novice quizzers. Taran, Josiah, and Daniel have placed consistently in the top sixteen quizzers. Daniel and Josiah competed in a national tournament last weekend in St. Louis. In the November meet, one of the HCN teams took second place in the meet. Congratulations to these quizzers and to their dedicated coaches who make the difference in their team effort.

Thanks to Gant Brasfield and Dillon Massey who lighted Advent candles during worship services on Sunday, December 4, 2011, at HCN.

Thanks to Betty and Ken Willis, Keli and Sam Green for using their superb decorating skills over the last two weeks to decorate the church for Advent. Keli and Sam set up the Christmas tree in the Center Lobby. Betty and Ken then relocated the tree so that the crèche could be moved to the corner of the Lobby. Betty has hung banners, hung wreaths inside and outside, prepared bulletin boards for silk screens and stars. Her fingerprints are lots of places around the church.

Do you ever buy a paper from one of the homeless vendors on the streets around Nashville? In the most recent issue of The Contributor, December 2011, Ray Ponce De Leon has written an article about the Trevecca Physician Assistants program and their ministry to the clients at Mercury Courts. He cites Robin Jewett as the coordinator of the effort as she teaches at TNU. Turn to page 4 and read.

This Sunday’s schedule follows regular times and Sunday School. There is a preaching service at 9:00 AM in the Sanctuary and the Worship Choir presents their annual Christmas musical at 10:15 AM in the Center. This gives options to what you want to see and hear. Diane Cater directs the LiveWire (middle school students) Ministry in a drama at 6:00 PM in the Center. Bring pasta and pizza, desserts, and drink to this fellowship. We will get our food first, be seated at tables, and watch the program.

I look forward to singing with you on Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

November 28, 2011

Thanks to Max Andrade, Doug and Christy Gold, and Bill Manley, for sharing pieces of their lives during Sunday morning worship yesterday. For five to six years, I have selected three or four people from the congregation to tell their stories on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. I attempt to ask people who are relatively new to the congregation and who have experienced significant life events in the past year. I think it is easy to attend worship week-after-week and to believe that everyone else has a smooth life. It helps to know that we all have tough places and times of struggle. It took great courage for each person to stand and speak. I appreciate your investment in both services. Thanks to Billie Ragland for overseeing the preparation of communion for each service.

Congratulations to Max Andrade and Jennifer Lee who were baptized in a 5:00 PM service on Sunday, November 27, 2011, in the Sanctuary. Pastor Shane Tarter interviewed and baptized Max and Pastor Rondy Smith interviewed and baptized Jennifer. We rejoice in their declarations of faith and their receiving of the sacrament.

The New Life Sunday School Class began the Room-in-the-Inn season at HCN on Saturday, November 26, 2011, by hosting ten homeless men in our facilities. HCN Director Paul Stonecipher served as transporter to and from the downtown center. Ray Render and Jody Sweeten served as overnight chaperones. Ronnie Marsh, Kendell Poole, Tony Dozier, Darlene Miranne, Tammy Poole, Stephanie Gamble, Stacey Sweeten, Charlotte Rose, Judy Shepard, Ginger Magee, Pam Stonecipher, Mike Miranne, and Lisa Kelley prepared the evening and breakfast meals and the take-away lunches; set up tables and televisions and bed cots; offered washers and dryers and showers for personal needs. They treated our guests with courtesy and dignity. Jesus said whatever was done to and for these men was done to and for him. Think about that for a while. Thanks to the New Life Class for representing all of us.

The B1 Senior High Men set up the tables and chairs on Sunday night in The Center. Lisa Anderson and Pam McNeese led the hard work in setting up the serving tables. Thanks for your service. Thanks to everyone who brought soup, salads, desserts, and drinks. The people at my table enjoyed the great variety. Thanks to Tyler Koon for bringing in the light for the Advent candles.

This Sunday, December 4, 2011, at 6:00 PM, HCN Children present their Christmas program and musical in The Center. We always have lots of guests so we need lots of food to serve. Bring a tray of sandwiches or veggies or fruit and finger food desserts. Deliver your food to a kitchen window and service will be set up in the hallway.

Each Sunday in worship, we pray for a significant list of soldiers by name. Those names represent sons, grandsons, friends, neighbors, co-workers. Some of the soldiers are on their first tour of duty. Some of the soldiers are on their fourth tour of duty. What sacrifice. Our specific request in prayer is that God will return each soldier safely to his or her family. I have one request of you. When you know that a soldier has returned stateside, would you notify me or the church office. I am listing the names here: Ryan McDaniel, Micah Terry, Jeff Holland, Brandon Hanks, Eric Lathrop, Jeremy Binkley, Matthew Muniz, Michael Resendez, Jamie Nicholson, Dylan Booher, Ron Ray, Nicole Rollis, Jeff Worley, Kevin Thomas, Josh Samuels, Derek Thornhill, Shawn Crofutt, Clint Hale, Allison and Brian Murray, Sean Clymer, Ricky Lutz, Kurt Kile, Jason Schlee, Matt Clouse, Sawyer Smith, Jamie Hazel, Caleb Cook, Jamie Barber, Robert Pizzatola, Thomas St. Thomas, Dan Hansmeier, Mike Berman, Anton Hoffman. If you know someone who has returned, please call.

The Thanksgiving Offering for world missions totaled $8,125 for the month of November. Thank you for your participation, prayer, and thought.

The Mission Africa ’12 Team is reaching critical schedule points in its venture. Shot regimes must be completed. Passports must be secured. Rosters must be finalized. Strange as it may seem, there are always a few people who really want to go and wait until the last months to join the team. If you are one of the people who is holding back, it is time to identify yourself. In the month of December, minimal deposits must be made for those registering for the trip and in the month of February, all monies must be paid for airfare. We are getting near the point where we could not add people if we wanted. So, now is the time. We still have room for you. Are you supposed to go on this mission?

It is possible that you have no direction to go on this mission but you feel drawn to assist someone else in participating. I know several young people and several adults who could use your help. Talk to me if you are interested. The end of the year is a good time to give for tax credits.

Quite a few college/university students were present in worship on Sunday. They were home for Thanksgiving. I had an opportunity to speak to several and to tell them how much I had missed them. They told me how much they had missed church and how they had enjoyed worship on Sunday. One young man told me it would only be two to three weeks and he would be home for Christmas and back in church. I look forward to him being home with us.

I look forward to all of us being home.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

November 21, 2011

I hope Psalm 100 is still ringing in your ears today. It was not the lectionary scripture for Sunday but it was the scripture from which I was led to preach. One family posted on facebook that they are memorizing it for Thanksgiving and may make its recitation the ticket for pumpkin pie. Our lives are not our own. We belong to God. “It is he who made us and we are his.”

The Thanksgiving Meal last evening looked delicious. The tables were full. Thanks to the turkey and ham cookers: Bill Lowe, Pam McNeese, Shelley Flint, Ginger Magee, Rachelle Reigard, Cathy Preston, Lisa Anderson, Angela Manley, Ruthann Terrell, Miriam McMillan, Carol Waller, and Sandra Hunt. I know at least three ladies who made dressing: Betty Willis, Pam McNeese, and Barbara Parrish. Thanks to everyone who provided the fixings, the salads, the vegetables, the bread, the desserts, the drinks. Thanks for the good company. Thanks to the New Life Sunday School Class for handling set-up and break-down for the event. Great teams are required to make the church work. Thanks to Lisa Anderson and Pam McNeese for setting up and cleaning up the serving tables.

The Weekend Bake Sale led by Diane Cater was an attempt to raise money to alter Hunger for Children. Over $600 was raised from the HCN parking lot on Saturday. The total edged closer to $1000 from the Lobby on Sunday. We will give you totals next week and the route the money takes to make a difference for kids.

Upwards Basketball Evaluations take place on Monday and Tuesday, November 27-28, 2011, from 6 to 8 PM in The Center. It is not too late to register online or by picking up a form at the HCN offices. Pastor Ken Jewett directs the ministry.

Reid Swoner, Maxwell Mullins, and Grant Phelps’ B-Gray Team won their State Champion-ship Game in Brentwood and Preston Phelps’ CCC Team won their State Championship Game.

I know grandparents who traveled from Kansas City to attend the games. Congratulations.

For weeks, I have written to you regarding the Thanksgiving Offering for world missions. I have attempted to offer multiple reasons for supporting the 700 plus Nazarene missionaries in 150 plus world areas. If specifics are your thing, I offered the support of our own missionaries, Spencer and April Baggott, who serve with their three children in Rwanda. The Baggotts are members of HCN. Giving to missions in the month of November totals $6,337. It is not too late to participate in this offering. Someone who will be out of town this weekend handed me their mission offering on Sunday night and asked if I would put it in the plates this coming Sunday. How close could we get to $10,000?

Like you, I am thankful this year for my family, the health and safety of my family, my church. I am thankful for the pastoral staff team with which I work week-after-week. I am thankful for you. The Wednesday night class I teach is currently studying a newly published book by Gordon MacDonald entitled Going Deep. Two weeks ago, the lesson contained an elevator story. The simple message was: if you were on the first floor in an elevator and were traveling to the thirtieth floor, what would you tell someone about your church in that amount of time. I asked the pastoral staff team that question last week and these are some of the words they used: healthy, Spirit-filled, Spirit-led, intergenerational, non-threatening, genuine love for people, relationships with Jesus, challenges for life, young people, energetic worship, pastoral, longevity of staff, community, missional, eclectic, biblically based, relevant, hospitable, fluid, trust, future-driven, family oriented. I know all those words take longer than thirty floors but that included seven people sharing. What would you tell someone in that elevator? What are you thankful for regarding your church this Thanksgiving?

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

November 14, 2011

Congratulations to Kyle Smith, a Mt. Juliet High School Senior, on signing a baseball scholarship with Vanderbilt University on Thursday, November 10, 2011. Congratulations to Sarah Harris, a Donelson Christian Academy Senior, on signing a golf scholarship with the University of Kentucky on Monday, November 14, 2011.

Jordan Marlowe and Stephen Swoner play on the same team in the Mt. Juliet Youth Football League: Mt. Juliet C Black. They had an undefeated season and were division champs in their age group. On Saturday, November 12, 2011, they played at Brentwood’s Crockett Park in State Playoffs for the Tennessee Youth Football Association. They remain undefeated and were crowned TYFA State Champions. The team goes to Knoxville to play in the Battle at the Rocky Top Football Tournament. Stephen is the quarterback, punter, kicker and receives both kickoffs and punts. Jordan plays offensive and defensive tackle and is on the kickoff and receiving team. Congratulations to both young men.

Tennessee District TNT for Sports met at HCN on Friday and Saturday, November 11-12, 2011. More than 300 young people attended the opening worship service on Friday night in the Sanctuary. HCN Senior High Students served as hosts and hostesses, which often meant they were doing dirty work. They picked up and emptied trash around the building and even plunged toilets and mopped floors in restrooms. Does that impress you as much as it impresses me? Ben Mabry and Jonathan Mowry made the Senior High Ultimate Frisbee Team. Nolan Magee placed 2nd in Junior High Table Tennis. Daniel Magee placed 3rd in Middle High Table Tennis. Bryson Fox placed 4th in Middle High Table Tennis and Bryson’s Basketball Team took 3rd place. Hannah Jackson placed 2nd in the 5K run. Kenzie Eiseman placed 3rd in the 5K run. Chandler Scott and Marileigh Mabry made the Girls’ Soccer Team. Congratulations to the individual and team participants.

Simon Kiendi is a Kenyan who works in volunteer service for World Servants. For the last two missions to Kenya, Simon has become a beloved brother to our HCN teams. He takes care of us and we return his care with deep affection. Simon visited in second service on Sunday, November 13, 2011. He is in the states visiting his son who lives with his family in Texas. He was so moved by the privilege to share worship with us on Sunday that when given an opportunity to greet the congregation, he could only weep and lay his head on the pulpit. John and Rachelle Reigard hosted the 2008, 2010, and 2012 Mission Africa Teams at their home on Saturday, November 12, 2011, so everyone could renew and make new friendships with Simon.

Smoke on the Mountain debuted at HCN on Sunday, November 13, 2011, at 6:00 PM in The Center. Diane Cater dreamed and directed the production. Actors and vocalists included Lamar Bradley, Beverly Sharpe, Suzanne Karr-Herring, Shelley Flint, Ronnie Thompson, Will Miranne, and John Jordan. Blue Grass Musicians included Michael Waller, David Flint, Bill Fleming, Rich Herring, Graham Scott, Chuck Cline, and Lucy Cline. I received this email this morning which I will alter enough to protect the identity of the writer. “I cried my eyes out at the altar this morning as I grieved for loved ones. I reluctantly went to the Sunday evening performance of “Smoke” because I was despondent and so weary from fatigue—but that performance made me laugh with all my might and relieved the stress in my body. It also relieved some of the stress in my mind because, after all, laughter is the best medicine. The performers were excellent and my daughter almost fell out of her seat laughing at Shelley’s signing. Great music and joy lifted the burdens of this old battered heart. I love my church.” I personally asked everyone at the staff table this morning if they had ever flown a June bug. It is with great sadness that I report only Rondy Smith and I had done so. Not everyone is as culturally rich as we are. We take so much for granted. Thanks for the June bug theology, Beverly. Were there 400 people present on Sunday night?

This Sunday, November 20, 2011, is the Sunday before Thanksgiving. It is also the evening when our congregation gathers to eat a Thanksgiving meal. We will begin to prepare our plates at 5:00 PM in The Center. We need six families to prepare a turkey and six families to prepare a ham. We need some families to prepare dressings. The rest of us need to prepare a salad or vegetable, a dessert, and bring a large drink. If you will prepare a turkey or ham, please call the church office at 847-3335 and put your name on a list. We need to know ASAP. Thanks.

Thanksgiving Offering envelopes were included in last Sunday’s bulletins and will be included in this week’s newsletter mailing. The envelopes are to help us remember our participation in the offering for world missions. I have written you for weeks about the possibility of making a sacrificial offering for missions. November is the time. I hope you are thinking and praying and planning.

Samaritan’s Purse sponsors Operation Christmas Child each year in hopes of providing joy to underprivileged children at Christmas. Shoe boxes are filled with recommended and age appropriate gifts that are then distributed to children in need. This is the week for collecting the boxes. 94 boxes are ready for delivery from HCN. Thanks to Jody Brown for leading the project.

I look forward to Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

November 7, 2011

Trevecca’s Homecoming Activities filled up last Friday and Saturday, November 4-5, 2011, on the hill. Daniel Smith, a senior class representative to the court, was crowned Homecoming King. Anna-Laura Green and Toby Haydel represented the freshman class as princess and prince. Michelle Arend Plummer was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring her career as a scholarship volleyball player. We are proud of all of these HCN honorees.

Building One’s Senior High Students traveled to Livingston, Tennessee, to the famous Barnes Farm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, November 4-6, 2011, for their annual fall camping retreat. There were sixty-eight students, eleven chaperones, and four hosts and hostesses. Ron, Illona, Gatha, and Mike cooked breakfast each morning including eggs, biscuits, French toast, omelets, sausage, bacon, etc. Shaun Lewis, assisted by Scott Perkins, cooked the barbecue for Saturday night. Jared Bouton served as chaplain speaker. Chaperones included Steven Magee, Gloria Maphet, Sarah Joe Bouton, Aaron Foster, Julie Foster, Katie Bridges, and Gregg Trotter. Pastor Shane Tarter served as the big boss. Retreaters included Adrie Brown, Alex Houser, Allyson Huffman, Andrew Vines, Avie Joyce, Caleb Foster, Chase Buscherfeld, Christopher West, Colby Wilcock, Corey Miranne, Ben Mabry, Emily Paddon, Evan Hollingsworth, Grant McCoy, Haylee Fee, Hannah Burnette, Hunter Steinmetz, Jackie Kuiack, Jared Mannen, Jessica Perkins, Jessie Joyce, Jonathan Mowry, Jonathan Silvernail, Josiah, Magee, Josh Cater, Josh Elkins, Kaitlin Hunek, Kelli Rose, Kevin Helm, Levi Carlton, Lisa Schwabauer, Max Andrade, Madison Trotter, Paige Ronsen, Rachel Thimell, Reed McCoy, Renee Lancaster, Robby Amity, Robert Luther, Ryann Amity, Ryan Mahoney, Sadie Dillon, Sara Drummond, Sara Matthews, Sarah Griffith, Sarah Burnette, Sophie Green, Stephanie Owens, Taylor Clark, Taylor Gonyea, Taran Magee, Torrey Cheney, Trevor Hunt, Will Choe, Will Fleming, Zack Duncan, Philip Calkins, Paige Hood, Daniel Jones, Brad Mullins, Hunter Batty, Nathan Curtis, Rachel Jones, Cameron Woodfin, Colby Earls, Mikey Jacobi, and Bonnie Baker. My friends on facebook raved about the experience. These are some of their posts: “unparalleled in its awesomeness,” “friends, serenity, and God,” and “amazing.” Hunter Steinmetz told me the only thing he did not like about it was it was his last time to go. He is a senior. No electricity. No running water. No indoor plumbing. One john. In the middle of the woods on a privately owned farm. Sleeping in tents in 40 degree weather. And they loved it.

Upwards Flag Football Teams and Cheerleaders played their last games at HCN on Saturday, November 5, 2011, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. They played under the lights set up under the gracious direction of Robert Sullivan (without whom there would be no lights). Coaches, officials, and volunteers for the season included Kristi Dozier, Gabby Satterlee, Keely Dozier, Ashley Wallace, Steve Stride, Steve Webb, Craig Cardwell, Dwayne Wright, Lindsey Miller, Maddy Rouse, Derek Brinkman, David Tigabu, Rick Brown, Wade Williams, Paige Ronsen, Caitlyn Taylor, Janelle Lake, Greg Ruff, Jonathan Beach, Valerie Marsh, Lamont Price, Tonya Williams, Chip Jackson, Troy Wood, Logan Frye, Richard Rouse, Beth Rouse, David Silvernail, Phil Stinson, Ray Render, Sheri Render, Grant Render, Ronnie Thompson, Jody Sweeten, Rob Mathias, Michael Mathias, and Mark Washing. This list does not reflect the parents who stepped in as substitute coaches, kept the fields mowed, provided snacks, or extended hospitality to the many guests we had each week at our games. Congratulations to Pastor Ken Jewett on leading and organizing a successful season. Now, on to basketball.

Congratulations to Reid Swoner, Maxwell Mullins, and Grant Phelps, on their season in the Charlie Daniel’s Tennessee Football Alliance. The Mt. Juliet Boys Grey Team earned a 7-1 regular season, two play-off wins, and head to the championship game in Brentwood this Saturday, November 12, 2011. Preston Phelps and Zachary Gonyea played on the Mt. Juliet Triple C Team with a 7-1 record, two play-off wins, and head to their own championship game in Brentwood on Saturday.

If you watch the Today Show on NBC in the mornings, you are familiar with the annual sketches of “Where In The World Is Matt Lauer?” Well, this is the week that Matt Lauer is traveling to a different place every day. And the male vocalist singing the “Where In The World Song” is Paul Vann. Listen and brag to your neighbors and coworkers.

Thanks to all of the Veterans reading this letter who have served in a branch of the United States Military. Thanks for your service and sacrifice. Thanks for your courage. We commit ourselves to continue to pray for the safety of those on active duty.

The next two Sunday nights in November are BIG at HCN.

• This Sunday, November 13, 2011, features the musical “Smoke on the Mountain” directed by Diane Cater. The actors and actresses are all our own and they are fabulous. The event begins at 6:00 PM in The Center.

• The next Sunday, November 20, 2011, features the All Church Thanksgiving Dinner. This meal begins at 5:00 PM. We need six families to cook a ham and six families to cook a turkey. The rest of us need to bring a vegetable, a salad, and a dessert. If you will volunteer to prepare a ham or turkey, call the church office at 847-3335 and put your name on a list with Jody, Joy, Billie, or Betty.

I know I may be in the minority, but I love when Daylight Savings Time ends. I love the extra hour on Sunday morning. I loved it last night when it was 9:00 PM and it seemed late. It is 4:15 PM right now and it is already getting dark outside. It reminds me of when I was a kid and no one had heard of Daylight Savings Time.

I hope you are considering giving a Thanksgiving Offering to World Missions. I have attempted over the last month to help us consider some of the reasons why we should give. You might give simply because you are thankful.

I am thankful to serve as the pastor of HCN.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

November 1, 2011

Mel Parkhurst died on Thursday evening, October 27, 2011, at St. Thomas Hospital. Mel was a member of HCN since 1998. There are lots of special stories about Mel. Bethel Church of the Nazarene was born from prayer meetings, one of which was held in Mel’s family home. Mel loved Bethel Church and her people. He married Linda when she was a young teenage girl and he was just discharged from the Navy. They were married 58 years. Mel was a clown and loved to do magic tricks. He loved to meet people. He had pictures of himself with David Copperfield, Reba McIntyre, and Al Gore. He loved to travel, to swim, to camp, to grow roses, to cook for other people. His brother and his sons said he never cussed, never used tobacco, never drank alcohol of any kind. Linda said his mother was an old prayer warrior who prayed for Mel continuously. He and Linda knelt at the corner of the front altar in first service during pastoral prayer on the last Sunday of his life. His memorial service was held at HCN on Monday, October 31, 2011, at 11:00 AM. His life began in the church and the church was the last place his body left before he was carried to the cemetery. We extend our arms and love and care to Linda, who survives Mel. The Early Christians and Faith Builders Sunday School Classes were asked to serve as honorary pallbearers for Mel. At the close of the service, they formed an honor guard of sorts that extended out of the sanctuary and through the foyer to the hearse. It was very moving.

Congratulations to Hunter Steinmetz, a senior at Mt. Juliet High School, selected for the DAR Citizenship Award. His counselor reports he received the most nominations from the faculty.

Congratulations to Daniel Smith, one of the senior representatives elected to the Trevecca Homecoming Court for King. Congratulations to Anna-Laura Green, the single representative for the freshman class to the Trevecca Homecoming Court for Queen. Congratulations to Toby Haydel, the single representative for the freshman class to the Trevecca Homecoming Court for King. All are members of HCN.

More than fifty men and young men ate breakfast together and listened to Dr. Steve Stride on Saturday, October 29, 2011, from 7:00 to 8:30 AM in The Center. Thanks to Brian Biggs for arriving early and running all the audio visuals. Steve talked to us about the profound effect of violence in the home in comparison to other types of abuse. Thanks, Steve. Thanks to Jill Satterlee for preparing the great breakfast.

The Fall Fish Fry held on the west end of the campus on Sunday, October 30, 2011, at 5:00 PM showed the refined planning of Wayne McNeese to begin frying all food items around 4:45 PM. Every item was hot and crisp and fresh. Although Wayne has lots of help, it is help that he recruits and he carries the load on his shoulders. Thanks to the following cooks: John Jordan, Ken Elkins, Glen Detwiler, Tim Garrett, Dan Scott, Ken Willis, Dean Beach, Paul Stonecipher, Tom Stephens, Rick Person, Ricky McNeese, Bobby Smith, Kenny McNeese, Ken Koon, Webb Trojan, Bill Jackson, Jonathan Beach, Marvin Heath, and Bill Groover. Thanks to the following prep and kitchen workers: Diane McNeese, Kylee Koon, Pam McNeese, Dot Waffird, Lisa Anderson, Rose Baker, Treila Garrett, and Julie Groover. Thanks to the Early Christians Sunday School Class for providing set-up and clean-up.

Hosting for Room-in-the-Inn begins at HCN on Saturday, November 26, 2011, with the New Life Sunday School Class. Each Adult and Teen Sunday School Class has an assigned evening to host through the winter months. Check with Paul Stonecipher for your assignment. If your heart has a special place for ministering to the homeless and you would be interested in assuming a learning role for directing the Room-in-the-Inn program at HCN, Paul is interested in training and passing the torch.

HCN participates in lots of venues for giving to mission projects. We support orphans; send volunteers to India, Peru, Kenya, Bulgaria, Romania; involve ourselves in right-to-life ministries and recovery ministries; serve and host the homeless; visit in nursing homes; and on and on. The very large investment in missions that we carry year after year is the support we share with Nazarene churches around the world for 750 plus career missionaries serving in 150 plus world areas. Our portion approaches $60,000 every year. There are hundreds of ways to look at this amount of money but one way is to consider that we fully fund and support our own missionary family, Spencer and April Baggott, who serve in Rwanda with their three children. I would think it takes $60,000 per year to house, feed, insure, and care for the Baggott family. Thanksgiving and Easter are great times for Nazarenes to sacrificially give to world missions. Our Radical adventure challenges us to sacrifice your money for a specific purpose. Involve your family. Talk about the contribution. Allow your children to sacrifice their money. Use this as a teaching moment. Please consider this opportunity. The more I learn about the world and the need for a faithful witness for Christ, the more I want to give to missions in ways that matter.

Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, November 6, 2011, at 2:00 AM. That means that you gain back the hour you gave up last Spring. So, before you retire to bed this Saturday evening, November 5, 2011, turn your clock BACK one hour and get extra sleep.

Thanks to Daniel Smith and Jake Resor, senior pastoral ministries students at TNU, who read the text and led in the Lord’s Prayer in last Sunday’s worship services. Thanks to Hunter Steinmetz, Grant McCoy, Reed McCoy, Ben Mabry, Kyle Peterman, Christi Fite, Sophie Green, and Anna-Laura Green, all high school and university students who served on the second service Praise Team last Sunday. You inspire me.

There are lots of large activities going on around the church this weekend. It is Trevecca’s Homecoming. It is the Senior High’s Barnes Farm Retreat. I hope you plan to include worship at HCN in your activities. I personally think it is a great place to be.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

October 24, 2011

Congratulations to the ten believers who were baptized into Christ and the church on Sunday, October 23, 2011, in the 5:00 PM service. Each made a public confession and followed after Christ into the baptismal waters. I baptized Sara Drummond, a senior high teen. Pastor Carol Waller baptized five elementary children: Elizabeth Stinson, Isabella Stinson, Dakota Biggs, Jonathan Pilarski, and Stephen Swoner. Dr. Bryce Fox baptized his daughter, Brenae Fox, and a father, mother, son: Eric Ni, Susan Ni, and Raymond Ni. The sacrament provided a true opportunity to hear stories of faith and to celebrate.

Congratulations to the Mt. Juliet Middle School Girls Soccer Team who are the 2011 undefeated District Champions and District Tournament Champions. Team members who either call HCN their home church or visit frequently with teammates are Savanah Collins, Morgan Houser, Hannah Jackson, Marileigh Mabry, Chandler Scott, Sarah Carter, Corinne Cheatham, Julian Duggan, Kendell Rice, Katilyn Bender, and Karah Sharpe. Marileigh was injured in a fluke accident moments before the championship tournament game and was unable to play. Her previous contributions to the team’s success were acknowledged by still bei

ng chosen all-tournament.

Congratulations to Alex Gray, student at McGavock Comprehensive High School and a member of the McGavock Marching Band. On Saturday, October 22, 2011, the band was named Reserve Grand Champions at the Contest of Champions held at Middle Tennessee State University. They also took second place honors in the Extra-Large Classification. They were the second highest scoring band in the state of Tennessee.

Pastor Eddie Witkowski led LiveWire (middle school) Students on a camping retreat to Fall Creek Falls last weekend, October 21-23, 2011. They not only survived the coldest weekend of the year but thrived in the wilderness. Chaperones were Kevin Davenport, Jake Pilarski, Jonathan Paddon, Ginger Magee, Adrie Brown, Eddie and Yana Witkowski. Retreaters included Carson Davenport, Teddy Joyce, Joel Jones, Daniel Magee, Cameron Davenport, Josh Pilarski, Keegan Brown, Nolan Magee, Jacob Paddon, Bryce Poole, Matthew Helm, Shelby Jackson, Isabella Green, Kristin Paddon, Kenzie Eiseman, Catherine Mann, Becca Waller, Sarah Helm, Maddy Rouse, Hailey Gold, and Kailey Perkins.

Pastor Ken Jewett led a LEAP Hiking Trip for Trevecca Students last weekend, October 21-23, 2011. Students included HCN peeps Anna-Laura Green, Shelby Bowman, Chelsea Hardy, Cassie Hunt, and Vera Pendergraft.

There are four significant events I need to talk with you about that arrive in the next seven days.

· The first is the Candy Parade on Wednesday, October 26, 2011, at 6:30 PM in the HCN Center. Bring 200 pieces of candy to give and come and sit and share with the children of our church and community. Children from infants through grade 4 are invited to dress up and take a candy walk. Bring a bag/sack/container.

· The second is the Seasonal Flair Event for Women on Thursday, October 27, 2011, at 6:30 PM in the HCN Center. Tickets are $6. Highlights include fellowship, shopping at vendors booths, crafty ideas, taste and take recipes.

· The third is the Men’s Breakfast on Saturday, October 29, 2011, from 7:00 to 8:30 AM in the HCN Center. Jill Satterlee cooks and serves breakfast from 7:00 to 7:30 AM. Dr. Steve Stride, HCN member and a licensed clinical psychologist, speaks from 7:30 to 8:30 PM. If you have an opportunity, register your intention to attend with the church office at 847-3335 or hlplummer@aol.com.

· The fourth is the Fall Fish Fry on Sunday, October 30, 2011, at 5:00 PM on the west end of the HCN campus. It is the largest and most popular social of the year. The menu includes freshly fried fish, French fries, homemade hushpuppies, slaw, and white beans.

Families are asked to bring a large drink and a dessert. There are twenty cookers ready to go. Wayne McNeese still needs volunteers who would serve as food runners from the fryers to the serving tables. Send a message to the church if you would like to help.

My good friend, Daron Brown, attended second service yesterday with his wife, Katie, and children, Kendall, Parker, and Macy. He is the pastor of the Waverly Church of the Nazarene and in the midst of a sabbatical. Daron attended HCN as a student at Trevecca in the 1990’s and as an intern for one semester. He is a contemporary of Matthew Mullins and Chuck Seay. It is my biased opinion that Daron is one of finest graduates of the TNU School of Pastoral Ministry and that the school should find a way to clone him.

Approximately one month ago, I wrote about the possibility that you would consider a significant offering for world missions at Thanksgiving. It is a long-standing tradition in the Church of the Nazarene for gifts to be given for missions at Thanksgiving and Easter. The Radical Series in progress in the HCN Sunday School has five particular challenges: pray for the entire world; read through the entire Bible; sacrifice your money for a specific purpose; spend your time in a specific context; commit your life to a multiplying community. Could I ask that you consider sacrificing your money for a specific purpose to be fulfilled in a Thanksgiving Offering for world missions? There is a generation of young men and women from HCN who sense a specific call to serve God in global missions. We guarantee there will be a place for them by giving now and continuing to give. Spencer and April Baggott, members of HCN, currently serve as missionaries in Kigali, Rwanda, with their three children. Please pray and think and ask God for direction regarding this investment.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

October 17, 2011

Congratulations to Jason and Katie Waffird on the birth of their daughter, Harper Grace, on Saturday, October 8, 2011, at 10:41 PM at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. Harper weighed 7.8 lbs and measured 19.5 inches in length. She is the granddaughter of Rusty and Brenda Waffird; the niece of Jarrod and Emily Waffird; the cousin of Chandler Waffird; the great-granddaughter of Dot Waffird. We give thanks to the Lord for a safe delivery and a healthy baby girl.

Today is the first day back in the office after two weeks of vacation. If you have missed the pastoral letter, it is not because you were ignored. I want to recognize the significant ministry of preaching offered by Shane Tarter and Ken Jewett in my absence. I have received emails from many of you telling me what wonderful messages each man delivered. I am delighted at your reports and the good news that God is at work dispensing his gifts. Bill Stricklin told me there is quite a stable of preachers on this pastoral staff. I agree. Thanks to Rondy Smith and Carol Waller for providing support ministry during worship services.

It would not be a bad time to mention that October is the month designated for pastoral appreciation. If you value the ministry of Rondy Smith, Carol Waller, Sam Green, Ken Jewett, Shane Tarter, or Eddie Witkowski, send them a note or card and tell them. Praise provides lots of encouragement to continue on the way. I highly value each of these women and men.

Rhea McCoy is the single mother of three young adult men while she works as an employee of an international airline flights. Rhea left a voice mail message last week saying she was getting ready to leave for a flight to New Dehli but wanted to call and comment on the church marquee message: “O God of Second Chances, here I am again.” She said she has read that message on our sign through the years and thanked God it was up again reminding her of God’s grace and love. I hope it works the same for multitudes more.

I received a facebook message on Sunday from Luke Coffey in Australia. Luke was an exchange student who lived with Bobby, Donna, and RJ Shankle some years back. He is now graduated from the university and has a government job. He wrote to tell me that he is listening to the sermon podcasts on the HCN website and has received great encouragement from them. He said he lives in a culture with little to encourage spiritual life but that God is doing a work in his own life. I find it interesting that the Holy Spirit is speaking and reaching through marquees and podcasts even when we are unaware. Rhea’s message and Luke’s message made me genuinely glad. When you think the darkness is overwhelming, remember that God’s light is piercing into places you and I know not.

Could I make an appeal to all men in the church that stretches from middle school age to senior adulthood? I would like to personally invite you to a breakfast on Saturday, October 28, 2011, from 7:00 to 8:30 AM in The Center. The cost is a donation. I want you to eat and I want you to listen to my friend, Dr. Steve Stride. I want you to listen to Steve because I believe he has lots of relevant things to say to us. Steve is a licensed clinical psychologist who is a real person. He is a husband and an involved father of three boys. He coaches his son’s football team. He has played on the men’s softball team for the last two years. He and Leisha, his wife, serve their time as volunteers in all of the preschool areas. Steve is also a serious Christian. He believes that his faith informs every area of his life and actions. As pastor, I have asked Steve to address some issues that I believe will help us personally and with our families. If you plan to attend, would you call the church office at 847-3335 or email me at hlplummer@aol.com. We need some estimate for food preparation. I hope you will give some thought to this.

Twelve years ago, I was diagnosed with adult onset diabetes. It was an early diagnosis and I am very fortunate that to date, I have no damage to major organs, eyes, or legs and feet. For eleven years, my blood sugar stayed in complete control depending on varying medicines and insulin shots. In the last year, by blood sugar has changed and has become unpredictable. I have a great endocrinologist who cares about me and has monitored my health closely. Five years ago, he began to talk to me about weight loss surgery. He told me I would need a surgery that would address serious and long-lasting weight loss. I laughed at him. I told him I could never do that. In the last year, I began to talk to him about a less invasive procedure and he told me I should really consider gastric bypass. Six months ago, I began to jump through the hoops at Centennial that prepared me for the surgery. On Monday, October 3, 2011, at 8:00 AM, I had the gastric bypass procedure that alters my eating for the rest of my life but particu-larly over the next six to nine to twelve months. I will lose a significant amount of weight so that is why I am giving you this information. If you think I am sick and dying, I am not that I know of; as a matter of fact, I am getting well. I did not intend to tell you more than you wanted to know. Forgive me if I did.

I know that school breaks have seriously affected our attendance over the last weeks. I am hoping that this Sunday gets us back on course. I am aware that there is a Titan game at home at noon. There is a 9:00 AM service in the sanctuary if you are interested. I look forward to seeing you. I am grateful to serve as your pastor.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

September 26, 2011

Congratulations to Eric Owens, freshman at Belmont University, elected to the forty member Congress in the Student Government Association. He is one of twenty students chosen for the Freshman Leadership Program.

Congratulations to Robin Jewett, instructor in the Physician Assistant program at Trevecca Nazarene University. Physician Assistants must recertify every six year by taking a long and difficult exam (PANRE). A passing score is 379. A score of 720 places the student in the top one percentile. Robin scored an 800 which is beyond extraordinary.

Congratulations to Michelle Plummer, elected to the Trevecca Nazarene University Athletic Hall of Fame, to be inducted at Homecoming Ceremonies in November. Michelle was a scholarship volleyball player at TNU from 2000-2003. She is a graduate of Trevecca and the graduate research program at Vanderbilt Medical School. She serves as the assistant coach of Girl’s Volleyball at St. Cecilia’s High School and is the mother of three preschool children.

Dr. Sam Green led the Hermitage Worship Choir in two morning worship concerts in The Center on Sunday, September 25, 2011. Vocalists included Lisa Anderson, Jo Apple, Melody Beach, Dorinda Biggs, Joy Bradley, Joyce Clevenger, Kristi Dozier, Julie Foster, Beth Fox, Anna-Laura Green, Keli Green, Wendi Harrison, Traci Haydel, Marvin Heath, Traci Hollandsworth, JoAnn Jackson, Ken Koon, Pam McNeese, Herb McMillan, Miriam McMillan, Lindsey Miller, Anna Plummer, Ruthann Ring, Beverly Sharpe, Bobby Smith, Kari Snyder, Ken Stegall, Tammy Tarter, Jenni Thompson, Jim Trease, Paul Vann, Brenda Waffird, Jami Walker, Joe Walker, Deborah Walter, Misty Webb, and Betty Willis. Band members included Jay Barfield, Paul Bolling, David Flint, Donny Jackson, Patrick Lake, Randy Layne, Graham Scott, and Michael Waller. I think it should be noted that Michael Waller played knowing he was going to his father’s wake in the afternoon and memorial services today. The concerts exalted the Lord Jesus Christ by declaring his name, his saving work, his attributes. What a tremendous display of talent and energy.

Kristi Mabry, Hermitage Missions President, and the Missions Council presented the Missions Fair in The Center on Sunday, September 25, 2011, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. The Team who made it happen included Jared (co-leader) and Sarah Jo Bouton, Jeremy and Heather Michael, Donna Shankle, Amy Walvoord, Jenn Neely, Matthew Mullins, Marvin Heath, Bev Mitchell, Ken Jewett, Jody Scott, and Adrie Brown. Helpers who assisted in the action included Kris Neely, Shane Tarter, Hunter Steinmetz, Reed McCoy, Daniel Jones, Chase Wheeler, Josh Cater, Ben Mabry, Robert Luther, Eddie Witkowski, Christine Helm, Jill Satterlee, Marilyn Jordan, Miriam McMillan, Ken Elkins, Kim Vann, Jill Sweigard, Kailey Perkins, Hayley Gold, Marileigh Mabry, and Shelby Rose. Multiple and diverse agencies opened their displays and tables and offered opportunities for mission in the neighborhood and around the world. One mission leader told me our church was the first Nazarene Church to invite her agency to a fair. A Room-in-the-Inn executive told me Hermitage Church was the church homeless men plead to be put on their list because of how they are treated. He had great words to say about Paul Stonecipher, the HCN director of Room-in-the-Inn. An estimated 300 people attended the fair.

Thanksgiving may seem far away to you, but I want to talk to you about something that has been a part of my Thanksgiving for decades: the Thanksgiving Offering for World Missions. Since I was a child, the Church of the Nazarene has received special offerings at Thanksgiving and Easter for world missions. These days, those offerings support 702 missionaries in 156 world areas, sharing the gospel. It supports 175 compassionate ministry centers in the United States and Canada to care for underprivileged and hurting people. 10.6 million people have accepted Jesus because of the sponsorship of the Jesus Film and 27,769 churches have started because of them. 10,205 children in 79 countries are supported through the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Child Development Fund. 54 Nazarene Schools provide education in 34 countries. Hermitage Nazarenes give between $55,000 to $60,000 to the World Mission Fund each year. Most of the time, we do that in catch up fashion in May and June. Would you begin to think about and pray about the possibility that you would give an offering for missions at Thanksgiving time? I will talk to you more as Thanksgiving gets closer.

I have not written it this year so here goes. Fall officially arrived last Friday, September 23, 2011. It is my favorite season and I think the favorite season of most people I know. It has its own distinct smell and wardrobe and colors and foods. I know it brings a lot of rain but I like rain too. And, as if you needed more, the farther you get into the fall, the sweeter the collard greens taste. When God renews the earth, I am hoping I get a lot of fall.

I know that the Wilson County School break begins this weekend and extends into the next three weekends. That means lots of people are going out-of-town. If you are in-town, I hope you will make it your business to attend Sunday School and worship. I look forward to seeing you and being with you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

September 19, 2011

Welcome to the eleven newest members of Hermitage Church of the Nazarene: Doug, Christy, Hayley, and Jack Gold; Jessica, Kailey, and Regan Perkins; Bill and Angela Manley; Andy Myers; and Stan Stocki. They were born in New York, Germany, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Their church backgrounds are Southern Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, and Nazarene. They are students, bank officers, CPAs, and retirees. Each person brings their own spiritual gifts to this local body and we celebrate who they make us. They belong to us and we belong to them. They are committed believers in Jesus Christ and his church.

On Thursday, September 15, 2011, Trevecca Nazarene University honored three women. First, they honored Dr. Nina Gunter with the recognition of a service award to women in her honor. Second, they presented a national service award to Senator Elizabeth Dole of North Carolina. Third, they presented a servant leadership award to a TNU student who exemplifies all of the qualities of Dr. Gunter and Senator Dole. The recipient was Vera Pendergraft, a student who calls HCN home while in Nashville. Congratulations to a very deserving Vera. Vera was a member of the Immersion Mission Teams in Eastern Europe last summer.

Congratulations to Trevecca’s newly elected freshman class officers who attend HCN. They are Brian Brinkman, president; Anna-Laura Green, chaplain; Chelsea Hardy, communications; Cassie Hunt, student services.

Eighty plus middle school students packed onto the property of Isaac and Morgan Houser last Saturday, September 17, 2011, in the evening. They were there for a bonfire (I heard it was 10 feet tall); for food (I heard there was chili); for a game of the underground church (can Eddie really scream that loudly?). Everyone posted great reports on the FB page. If I had names, I would post. I think they want to remain incognito (underground church and all).

Chuck Seay served on the HCN pastoral staff for ten of the last fifteen years. He now serves the Sheffield, Alabama, First Church of the Nazarene, as senior pastor. Chuck, Jennifer, and Jack were on vacation last Sunday and decided to spend the morning at HCN. We love the Seays and rejoice at the good ways God is using them in Alabama. It was good to give them a squeeze. My, how Jack has grown.

Jamie Stanfill came to second service on Sunday, September 18, 2011. It was his first Sunday out of prison in several years. People in that service prayed with Jamie and his family on the Sunday before his incarceration. Jamie thanked them for their prayers at the mic. Now, he is about the task of rebuilding his life with vows to stay clean and close to the church. Encourage Jamie when you see him.

There will be a Called Church Board Meeting this Sunday, September 25, 2011, at 4:00 PM in the Parlor. The board needs to be informed and discuss a positively important issue.

Dr. Sam Green directs the Center Worship Choir and Band this Sunday, September 25, 2011, in their Annual Fall Concert entitled “You Reign.” The first concert begins at 9:00 AM in The Center. The second concert begins at 10:30 AM (notice this is thirty minutes later than usual). The schedule is an attempt to give time to exit and to enter the buildings and parking areas. Special events always provide opportunities for us to invite our unchurched neighbors, friends, coworkers, family, fellow students to church with us. Take a risk and invite someone. What do you have to lose? What do they have to gain?

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

September 12, 2011

Congratulations to Jerrod and Emily Waffird on the birth of their daughter, Chandler Elizabeth, on Sunday, September 11, 2011, at 9:15 PM at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. Chandler weighed 7 lbs 3 ozs and measured 19 ½ inches in length. She is the granddaughter of Rusty and Brenda Waffird; the niece of Jason and Katie Waffird; the great-granddaughter of Dot Waffird. We give thanks to the Lord for a safe delivery and a healthy baby girl.

Donnie and Angela Dillon presented their daughters, Jessie Rae and Amanda Gale, in dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday, September 11, 2011, in the 9:00 AM service in The Sanctuary. The girls were joined at the altar by their siblings: Sadie, Lila, William, Donnie, and Mary. Pastor Carol Waller carried Amanda for the blessing journey and I carried Jessie. We bless the Lord who has blessed Donnie and Angela with children to love and nurture in His ways.

Matthew and Sabrina Keener presented their daughter, Andrea Cherlyn, in dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ on Sunday, September 11, 2011, in the 10:15 AM service in The Center. Andrea was joined at the altar by her brothers, Trace and Levi; grandparents: Jerry and Marilyn Keener, Paul and Cheryl Cote; aunt and uncle, Julie and Aaron Foster; cousins: Caleb, Lydia, Ethan, and Elizabeth Foster. I carried Andi for her blessing journey and her toes were a favorite feature. We bless the Lord who has blessed Matthew and Sabrina with children to love and nurture in His ways.

Congratulations to Hayley Fee elected by the MJHS Student Body as the 2011 Homecoming Queen. Hayley was crowned during the Homecoming Football Game on Friday, September 9, 2011. She was escorted by Ben Mabry. Ben is the President of the MJHS Marching Band. Both are HCN Seniors. Anna-Laura Green was the 2010 MJHS Homecoming Queen.

Second service yesterday broke the routines of scheduled order. Young people came to the altars to pray at all sorts of irregular times and their courage opened up opportunities for the rest of us to pray. As the Holy Spirit steered the service, I tried to keep us out of the way. I watched all four altars fill front and back twice and people seated on the steps of the platform. Then I watched people move out of their front seats so their chairs could become places of prayer. In the midst of the wonder, I forgot that new members were waiting to be received at the close of worship. I can only ask for forgiveness and a promise to check with each of you for a new schedule.

Paul Vann brought his friends to church last Saturday night. They provided the show for the Grounded in Hope Benefit and they were sensational. They sang gospel, patriotic, country, Elvis, Patsy Cline, Tina Turner, Neil Diamond and whatever else floated your boat. For years, they provided the show on the General Jackson. This night, they sang and played so a team of twenty to twenty-four people from HCN could go to Africa in June 2012. Thanks if you bought a ticket to the benefit or donated a service or item to the silent auction. Thanks to John Reigard who was the mastermind behind the event and to Teresa Vines, Traci Hollandsworth, and Jody Scott who provided organizational support. The 2012 Team (still forming), includes John Reigard (leader), Traci Hollandsworth, Kim Vann, Valerie Marsh, Phil Stinson, Jody Sweeten, Robert Angle, Justin Angle, Rachel Jones, Adrie Brown, Teresa Vines, Andrew Vines, Gregg Trotter, Madison Trotter, Dan Scott, Richard Rouse, Max Andrade, Deborah Kuiack, Jackie Kuiack, Betty Willis, Anna Plummer, Howard Plummer.

The HCN Worship Choir and Band presents their Fall Concert, “You Reign,” on Sunday, September 25, 2011, in two services at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM in The Center. We initially planned for one service but realized we cannot all fit into one seating. So, please plan for your family to attend one of the services and invite your unchurched friends and neighbors to come with you. Dr. Sam Green directs the choir and band. Sam reminded us on Sunday that it was two years ago he received his first diagnosis of acute leukemia and only one year ago that he passed out on stage to go through round two. This year is a celebration of complete remission for Sam, for his family, and for us.

I am grateful to God for you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

September 6, 2011

Rain, wonderful rain has soaked Middle Tennessee and made our once brown lawns think about turning green again. It encouraged some of us to stay in bed a little longer on Labor Day Monday and then held us inside to do generally whatever we felt like doing. It was kind of like a snow day. I took my two year old grandson, Leyton, out on the front porch last night to show him the rain and to talk about all the sounds it makes in the trees. He then refused to let me return indoors. I do respect whatever captures the attention of a two year old child.

Pastor Ken and Robin Jewett provided the lunch for college students on Sunday, hosting forty-five people. Are you interested in assisting in this monthly venture? Volunteer with Ken at ken.jewett@gmail.com.

The Labor Day Cookout turned into an Eat-in because of the rain. Wayne McNeese plowed through his own physical ailments to lead Kenny McNeese, Ricky McNeese, Ken Koon, Paul Stonecipher, and Phil Stinson in grilling the hamburgers and hotdogs. Lisa Anderson, Pam McNeese, and Kylee Koon prepared the sliced tomatoes, onions, and condiments. The Set-up and Clean-up Crew came from the Faith Builders Sunday School Class and included Jim and Brenda Agee, Jeanette Flatt, Myrna Sisco, Mary Alice Butler, Wendell and JoAnn Poole. Thanks to everyone who produced the side dishes, salads, desserts, and drinks.

The Grounded in Hope Benefit Concert with Paul Vann takes place this Saturday, September 10, 2011, at 7:00 PM in The HCN Center. Tickets cost $25 for general admission and $50 for reserved seating. All proceeds support the cost of sending the Mission Africa Team to Kenya in June 2012. A Silent Auction is also available in The Center Lobby. I made a quick list of some of the products and services included: photo sessions with Valerie Marsh; floral arrangements by Keli Green; coffee products from Dan Scott; photos by Reed McCoy; Babysitting by Anna Waller; computer tech services by Philip Lutz; tutoring sessions for grades 1-5 by Beverly Mitchell; pies, cakes, cookies, banana puddings by excellent HCN bakers; Titans tickets; St. Louis Cardinals tickets; Titan hats; Dale Earnhardt Photo/Frame; Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Photo/Frame; Predators Tickets; Windtree Golf Course twosome; Riverside Golf Course twosome; Grand Ole Opry tickets; Ipod products; car details; massage; A New Day Salon cut/style; Stylemaster’s haircut/style; Tangles Salon Gift Card; Two Roads Band CD; Campbell Hausfield power wash; Walk-in bathtub; crocheted products (hat, scarves, purse, bride/groom); Wildhorse gift package; Needham’s Nursery; car wash kit; homemade jellies; paintings; fleece throws; smoke detectors; Gibson hoodies and hats; Goodyear gift card; Scenty candles basket; Christmas scrapbook; large tote bags; Avon gift baskets; gift cards from Longhorn, Shagor, Fulin’s, El OK Corral, Courtney’s Restaurant and Catering, La Hacienda’s, El Chico’s, Chili’s, The Corner Pub, Outback. Please do not be mad with me if I did not include something you donated. The omission was not purposeful. I took fifty tickets to sell. I need help.

Graham Scott, Andy McCormick, Anna-Laura Green, and Christi Fite regularly contribute to The Center Worship Band and Vocal Praise Team on Sunday mornings. They are college students. Hunter Steinmetz, Ben Mabry, Sophie Green, Grant McCoy, and Reed McCoy sing in the Vocal Praise Team. They are Senior High Students. I watch them and listen to them and think about how proud I am to know them and how gifted they are. It requires a great deal of courage and faithfulness to stand up in front of the church week after week. Thanks.

Senior Adults and Friends gathered for our monthly pot luck luncheon last Friday. The variety of foods was incredible and the company was just as good. Our meetings conclude with spiritual conversation. I ask a specific question and everyone shares their own personal answer. On Friday I asked for people to share a memory of the season of fall. The stories were remarkable. When we were finished, one of the ladies told me that her mother would call her when she got home and ask what we had to eat and what was the question this month and what did people say. I was moved by the power of a simple lunch to take on life that fed the spirit of another. I told another lady what was just spoken to me. And she told me when she got to her parent’s home that afternoon, they would ask her the same questions. I forget how rich my life is. Do you?

The tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001, is this Sunday. That seems appropriate to me. Ten years after terrorists flew airplanes into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in NYC, into an open field in Pennsylvania, into the Pentagon in Washington, DC, our country and our world remain forever changed. God, on the other hand, is the same. Psalm 27:1 says: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” As we recognize this tenth anniversary this Sunday, may we exalt the Lord who is the source of our strength and security.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

August 22, 2011

I sat at my dining room table at 5:00 AM on Sunday morning and listened to the hard rain and thunder and lightning storm outside. At one point, the thunder rumbled so loudly and deeply that it rang the crystal glasses inside the china cabinet like bells. I was impressed. In some crazy way, I felt God was speaking to me. We need a little mystic in us.

Pastor Ken Jewett invited the College/University Crew to join him rafting on the Ocoee River last Friday evening, Saturday morning. Those who accepted were Lauren Lavery, Ky Bailey, Rebecca Sharpe, Derek Brinkman, Taylor Haydel, Matt Follis, and Michael Follis. I have seen pictures and there were several dips in the water. I will not name them.

Pastor Shane Tarter invited Senior High Students to join him for a Lock-In at HCN on Friday, August 19, 2011. Chaperones who joined him were Treila Garrett, Teresa Vines, Sandra Hunt, Marla Houser. Students included Hunter Steinmetz, Nathan Brown, Connor Allen, Kiana Gonzalez, Blair Stanton, Dillon McCabe, Aren Edwards, Nathan Curtis, Robert Luther, Chris West, Daniel Jones, Sarah Burnette, Hannah Burnette, Allyson Huffman, Madison Trotter, Kelli Rose, Caleb Foster, Blake Propes, Max Andrade, Kevin Helm, Hardie Chambers, Stephanie Owens, Sara Drummond, Jacqueline Winstead, Brandon Shepard, Drew Fraley, Matt Bastin, Trevor Hunt, Eddie Hunsberger, Joshua Elkins, Isaac Thompson, Ryan Mahoney, Jackson Hollinshead, Jessie Raines, Kelsie Craighead, Jessica Perkins, Rachel Jones, Reed McCoy, Sergio Myers, Chase Buscherfeld, Morgan Harold, Jonathan Mowry, Lucas Houge, Hannah Garrett, Hayley Fee, Emily Paddon, Hunter Batty, Toby Haydel, Maya Mansour, Savannah Wilson, Nahall Yousef-Zaden, Naseem Yousef-Zaden, Dylan Thomson, Matthew Kelley, Austin Twelly, Julian Turner, Brett Frashier, Jesse Yates, John Gutman, Marley Gibson, Thomas Waldrop, Robby Amity, Philip Calkins, Brandon Smith, Taylor Gonyea, Jackie Kuiack, Sara Matthews, Jessie Joyce, Avie Joyce, Sarah Griffith, Parker Lawrence, Corey Miranne, Brad Mullins, Justin Woodfin, Rachel Thimell, Travis Dakhil, Peter Murray, Jonathan Silvernail, Ryan Youngs, Levi Calton, Will Choe, Wes Gibson, Blake Escue, Brian Brinkman, Josh Cater, Taylor Clark, Katelyn Houge, Alex Houser, Jonathan Smith, Ryann Amity, Halle Raines, Taylor Vines, Zach Austin, Connor Drape, Justin Angle, Haley Richey, Erin Conway, William Fleming, Josh Johnson, Evan McDaniel, Andrew Vines, Ben Mabry, Nathanael Jackson, Chris Presley, Daniel Allen. If you count, there are 105 names. There were 107 students. This is what happens when the church provides a safe place for young people to be together with food and their friends. A PS to this paragraph is I am a member of a message board on facebook that Senior High Students post to regarding announcements and questions. Yesterday afternoon as I sat in my office waiting for an appointment to arrive, I read this on the message board: “Hey, can anyone get me to church tonight. I will give gas money.” I remembered when I was a teen and needed a ride to church on Wednesday or Sunday night and the people I depended on to pick me up and take me home. Shane told me our kids took the initiative last night to make a sign-up sheet for helping to get this friend back and forth to church.

Senior High Students recently elected a student council for their Building One Team. Seniors elected are Hunter Steinmetz, Reed McCoy, Ben Mabry. Juniors elected are Josh Cater, Sophie Green. Sophomores elected are Jessica Perkins, Rachel Jones. Freshmen elected are Caleb Foster, Jonathan Silvernail. The council has held its first meeting to organize and to begin implementing ministry.

Pastor Rondy Smith coordinated a Newcomers’ Luncheon after second service yesterday morning. The luncheon gives new families an opportunity to meet pastoral staff and for pastoral staff to meet new families. I am always amazed at who I do not know. I had previously met one person. The families who were brave and courageous and made time to meet us were Patrick and Janelle Lake and their children, Zack, Ariana, Elijah; Michael Hraba and his daughters, Katelyn and Haley; Wade and Tonya Williams and their children, Cade and Sydney; and Stan Stocki. Two of the four families first connected with the church through Upwards.

One of the newcomer families asked about a membership class opportunity. I have scheduled two: Tuesday, September 6, 2011, from 7:00 to 8:15 PM and Saturday, September 10, 2011, from 9:00 to 10:15 AM. You only need to attend one and there is no pressure to join the church after attending.

Last Wednesday evening, Jared Bouton brought one of his childhood friends to church with him. His friend’s name is Sawyer. Sawyer was home on a two week leave from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. Jared told me he prayed for Sawyer every week when we pray through the soldier list. Jared prayed that when Sawyer came to visit that it would be on a church night. It was. They came to the class I teach in the Parlor. We are finishing the first Radical book. Afterwards, people swamped Sawyer and his wife telling them we were going to pray for him for the rest of his tour of duty. Jared said Sawyer was honored and somehow he felt honored. He wrote: “I was so happy to be a part of a church that is loving, caring, and an amazing example of Christ to someone not a regular within our walls.” You never know when opportunities will come your way to take care of someone for Jesus.

I am glad I know you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

August 15, 2011

Congratulations to Brady and Michelle Plummer on the birth of their son, Nolan William, on Tuesday, August 9, 2011, at 7:33 PM at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee. He weighed 7 lbs 10 ozs and measured 21 inches in length. Nolan is the brother of Kennedy and Leyton; the grandson of Howard and Anna Plummer; the nephew of Kelly Plummer and Roger King; the great-grandson of Sue and Darvin Dobbins; the great-nephew of Bobby and Rondy Smith; the cousin of Daniel and Kyle Smith. We give thanks to the Lord for a safe delivery and a healthy baby.

Congratulations to Sarah Jo Bouton who officially graduated from Belmont University on Saturday with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Sarah Jo is the wife of Jared Bouton. She is employed by STAR Physical Therapy in Mt. Juliet.

All five of our Trevecca Student Immerse Missionaries have returned to the USA from twelve weeks in Bulgaria and Romania. Jake Resor, Daniel Smith, Preston Hunt, Michael Follis, and Graham Scott greeted the second service congregation on Sunday, August 14, 2011. Welcome home. You were missed. We are proud of you.

Seventy-eight Middle School Students participated in a Lock-In at HCN on Friday, August 5, 2011, under the leadership of Pastor Eddie Witkowski and Pastor Carol Waller. They were assisted by Yana Witkowski, Patty Daugherty, Jake Resor, Katie Scott, Katelyn Hogue, and Aaron Foster. Middle School Students included Joel Daugherty, Evan Gibson, Logan Evans, Evan Flint, Nick Satterlee, Gabi Satterlee, Nate Martin, Tanner Cheatham, Corinne Cheatham, Shelby Rose, Brianna Post, Chandler Scott, Kailey Perkins, Abby Elkins, Olivia Garrett, Cameron Davenport, Carson Davenport, Carly Earnhardt, Anthony Mannen, Lacey Remmert, Logan Remmert, Logan Brooks, Jonathan Smith, Nathan McLaughlin, Michael Mathias, Ben Thompson, Shelby Thompson, TJ Hysell, Annie Cater, Keegan Brown, J.D. Hall, Isaac Houser, Morgan Houser, Bella Agee, Bryce Poole, Joel Jones, Cade Williams, Jacob Brown, Holly Barfield, Nick Groover, Marileigh Mabry, Chelsea Rhodes, McClain Remus, Hannah Gastley, Madeline Scholl, Emma Montague, Grant Reigard, Teddy Joyce, Bella Green, Danielle Wylomans, Jordan Sweeten, Eddie Mahoney, Evan Gamble, Mason Greenwood, Adam Shelton, Grant Render, Morgan Follis, Maddy Rouse, Lydia Foster, Trace Tignor, Cole Jackson, Shelby Jackson, Anna Waller, Sara Waller, Becca Waller, Mikayla Wurth, Ashley Wallace, Hannah Dubin, Keely Dozier, Josh Pilarski, Austin Waller, Ashlee Harrison, Nolan Magee, Daniel Magee.

Eleven College/University Students served the evening meal on Monday, August 8, 2011, at the Nashville Rescue Mission. The group included Morgan Harold, Katelyn Houge, Heather Miller, Katie Scott, Ben Griffith, Braden Maphet, Jasmine Stiles-Barnes, Jessica Long, Rebecca Sharpe, Anna-Laura Green, Jake Resor. They were led by Pastor Ken Jewett.

The Church Board met on Sunday, August 14, 2011, for their monthly session. Motions passed include the restructuring of pastoral staff titles, assignments. Carol Waller’s title changes from Pastor to Families with Children to NextGen Pastor. Carol retains her role in leading children’s ministries but assumes oversight roles over children, youth, and college ministries. Ken Jewett focuses on College Ministries and adds leadership for Upwards Sports Ministries. Eddie Witkowski assumes leadership for Middle School Ministries.

Wendell and Sheila Marlowe have a son, Patrick, who is an inmate in a federal prison. In the last six months, Patrick was relocated from a federal facility in one state to a federal facility in another state. What initially appeared good for Patrick was not good. He is isolated and sinking physically and emotionally. Wendell and Sheila have just returned from a visit. Patrick has hope for something that might help his situation. If you are interested in helping, contact Wendell at wendell.marlowe@live.com. Patrick is a child of this church and a member.

Remember when your dad or mom gave you the lecture about turning lights on and off in the house? Well, we need the lecture. If you are passing by a room or the sanctuary and no one is present, would you make it your business to turn off the lights? It surely would help the church electric bill which was especially high last month.

Numbers are interesting to me. Lance Waller told me when he counted attendance in The Center for second service he went to the second floor and looked down. He said Senior High Students seated 20 people on 15 chairs. I think my area seated 3 people on 5 chairs. Lance suggests we follow the Senior High model. Carol Waller reported in pastoral staff meeting this morning that there were 22 students in Sunday School in the 5th Grade Class. You know that large Senior High Group we enjoy? There is another wave just behind them.

Two young adult women who suffer from Huntington’s disease are sisters and members of the HCN community with their husbands and children. This Thursday, August 18, 2011, at 7:00 PM, Melissa Darnell will provide a learning opportunity about Huntington’s at HCN. Melissa is a cousin of our sisters and the caretaker of her dad and aunt. Both sisters have given permission for this meeting. If you need more information, contact Carol Waller at waller.cw@gmail.com.

We failed to publish this in last Sunday’s bulletin.

I look forward to singing with you on Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

August 8, 2011

Congratulations to Bill Manley and Angela Draper who were joined in marriage on Tuesday, August 4, 2011, at 4:00 PM in the Hermitage Church Sanctuary. The ceremony was so private that we had to pick up witnesses on the way to the sanctuary. Traci Haydel and Matt Follis served as witnesses and Matt signed the papers. I was pleased to preside.

Congratulations to Brad Mullins who made the Mt. Juliet High School JV Baseball Team last week. Brad has just returned to Middle Tennessee from Oklahoma with his brother, Travis, and parents, Paul and Wendy.

Thanks to all of the servants who do most of the hard work every time we have an all church social. Last Sunday afternoon, Wayne McNeese led the cooking team with his son-in-law, Ken Koon. Lisa Anderson, Pam McNeese, Kylee Koon, and Traci Hollandsworth prepared the onions and tomatoes and condiments. Chris Lewis and Caleb Foster set up all the tables and chairs. Thanks to everyone who brought the extras of salads, desserts, and drinks.

Dr. Sam Green planned and rehearsed an evening of music with the Praise Team and Worship Band that followed our meal. The vocalists included Christi Fite, Anna-Laura Green, Sophie Green, Suzanne Karr Herring, Keli Green, Dorinda Biggs, Paul Vann, Hunter Steinmetz, and Sam. The instrumentalists included Michael Waller, Donny Jackson, Andy McCormick, Randy Layne, David Flint, Jay Barfield, Ben Tyler, Paul Bolling, and Josh Sinclair. The talent and spirit of the service was amazing. I heard and witnessed much joy and celebration.

The Radical Together Experience began on Sunday, August 7, 2011, in the Sunday School hour with middle school through adult classes participating. Early Christians decided to meet at 7:50 AM instead of 8:00 AM to give ten extra minutes of discussion. What are you bringing to the table that requires change for you?

Two young adult women who suffer from Huntington’s disease are sisters and members of the HCN community with their husbands and children. Many people in the congregation want to know more about the disease and how to help the families. On Thursday, August 18, 2011, at 7:00 PM, Melissa Darnell will provide a learning opportunity at HCN. Melissa is a cousin of our sisters and the caretaker of her dad and aunt. Both sisters have given permission for this meeting. If you need more information, contact Carol Waller at waller.cw@gmail.com.

Last week, when I reported that Dr. Rondy Smith and Pastor Carol Waller preached at HCN while I was away on vacation, I made a major error. I wrote that Carol Waller was Carol Smith. It was somewhat of a joke on staff because sometimes people mistake Rondy and Carol for each other. I apologize. It will not be my last mistake.

I am glad I know you.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

August 1, 2011

Anna and I have taken two weekends in a row as vacation time to rest and refresh. We could not afford to get too far away as grandbaby number three is scheduled for arrival. During the two weeks, our son, Brady, was involved in an accident in Bowling Green, KY, which totaled his car and left him to kick his way out of a window. He has bruises and a very sore back but no broken bones or head injuries. We are grateful and fortunate.

Dr. Rondy Smith filled the pulpit on Sunday, July 24, 2011, as she told the story of her Radical Sabbatical. The whole church is joining Rondy in the process as Adult and Youth Sunday School Classes begin the study of Radical Together this Sunday, August 7, 2011. Pastor Carol Smith filled the pulpit on Sunday, July 31, 2011, as she told the story of The Generations. Carol had the HCN Generations of Youth to come to the front for a prayer of blessing before dismissal in second service. Both of these women are gripped with conviction for where God leads them and how he wants them to lead in their ministry assignments at HCN. I am very proud of each pastor and the excellence with which they led morning worship services. Thanks to Pastor Ken Jewett who taught the Early Christian Sunday School Class on both July 24 and July 31, 2011.

There are three special musical events coming to HCN in the next eight weeks and each possesses a distinct personality and purpose. The first is scheduled for this Sunday, August 7, 2011, at 6:00 PM in The Center. It has incubated in the heart of Dr. Sam Green. It is a worship and praise experience entitled, “Renew Your Mind,” and led by the praise team and worship band. It is not about watching. It is about participating. You want to come at 5:00 PM and eat and then help us to rearrange the chairs so that we might sing and praise the Lord.

The second is about others. If you were present in The Center Lobby on Sunday, you witnessed a wall of work by Betty Willis, Anna Plummer, and Jody Scott. The wall tells a story of how Kenya became a place of calling to members of the HCN family, beginning in 2006. It includes the construction of an orphanage; life for 26 orphan girls; protection for the property; dreams for a community well; feeding a community starving from drought. The wall ends by telling you there is a benefit concert and silent auction planned for Saturday, September 10, 2011, entitled “Grounded In Hope.” The purpose of the event is to raise funds to send a new team to Kenya in June 2012. Entertainment for the evening features vocalist Paul Vann. Tickets are $25 and $50. This benefit was approved by the Church Board. Like the meetings of the 2006 team which dreamed the 2008 trip into being, the meetings planning the 2012 trip are empowered by the Holy Spirit. I sat and watched each take form and was amazed.

The third is the Annual Fall Concert with music from Prestonwood Choir entitled “You Reign.” The date is September 25, 2011, at 10:00 AM in The Center. We looked at all of the stats from previous years and decided this is the one event we can do together in one great big morning. It will be fun to fill the house. Would you reserve the morning?

Jake Resor landed safely in Nashville, TN, last night following a summer of mission in Bulgaria and an automobile wreck which dislocated his hip. His hip is now relocated and he is on a month of crutches. Dr. Tim Green chaperoned Jake home. We look forward to seeing and hearing from Jake. The other eighteen missionaries return in several weeks.

Kyle Smith is in Lakeland, Florida, this week playing in the East Coast Pro Showcase. 150 high school baseball players from 6 regions make up the rosters of 6 teams. The percentage of draft picks to MLB teams from the 2010 showcase is huge. Previous players include Josh Hamilton and Brian McCann.

I am glad to be home and look forward to worship with you on Sunday.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard

July 18, 2011

Congratulations to Lauren Shepard on qualifying for the Spring 2011 Dean’s List at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Lauren is a double major in English and Women’s Studies.

Mike Miranne’s finish at the Boston Marathon on April 8, 2011, is recorded in the Summer 2011 Treveccan. Mike wore a Trevecca Cross Country shirt and made it into the Where in the World Section.

Matthew Helm competed with the Donelson Blue Devils in the 12U Cal Ripkin State Tournament. The team went undefeated and Matthew batted .571 with a .714 on base percentage. They represent Tennessee in regionals in South Carolina at the end of the month.

Pastor Ken Jewett led the College Class last Wednesday, July 13, 2011, in service at Catholic Charities Refuge Warehouse. They sorted contributions for refugees who are new to Nashville and setting up housekeeping. Servants were Rebecca Sharpe, Katie Scott, Katelyn Houge, Cassie Hunt, Timmy Porter, Eric Owens, Jonathan Tigabu, and Will Miranne.

Missionaries Jay and Teanna Sundberg visited HCN on Wednesday, July 13, 2011, speaking in a combined service of adults, Senior High and Middle School Students in The Center. The Sundbergs were the host missionaries for our TNU students in Bulgaria and Romania this summer. Home on furlough, when they return to Europe, they will serve in Hungary. The offering received for them at the close of service totaled $551.55. Thanks for giving.

Early Christians prepared the beans, potatoes, and cornbread that fed the Poverty Dinner diners. I asked for volunteers last week and they signed up on Sunday morning. Barbara Parrish reminded me that I needed people to help set up and serve and clean up and so class members came early and stayed late to do that. Arch Dobson called from vacation last week to say that he would be out of town on Sunday and he needed me to put in $20 for him. I did. The giving reports this week read that $160 was given for the Poverty Dinner, but that is only money that came through the offering plates in services. Add $1,673 which was given at the head of the serving lines. So far, the total is $1,833. All of those monies will go through World Servants to buy grain, rice, and beans for people in Kali Market, Kenya.

I told you several weeks ago when my watch stopped that I realized people no longer wore watches. They tell time by their cell phones. Well, my cell phone stopped so I bought another watch. Actually, I bought two Timex watches, one with a black band and one with a brown band. Then, I bought another cell phone. My new three month Timex black band watch has already stopped. So, I have bought a $12.99 black band watch from Target. I do not know the brand nor do I care. I am over status symbols.

Words to remember from Sunday: incomparable, merciful, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love, faithful, resilient, reliable. I hope you are remembering to ask God the question: Who is like you?

I look forward to the return of school and the return of some regularity in worship. I miss you when you’re gone.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Howard