A Newsletter Publication of First United Methodist Church, Jackson, Tennessee

June 12, 2013 | Volume 12 Issue 11 jacksonfumc.org

SEEKING GOD | KNOWING CHRIST | SHARING HIS LOVE

FIRST EDITIONFIRST EDITIONDOWNTOWN JACKSON

2013 Annual Conference Reappointments

Welcome Back Pastors!Dan Camp, Sr. Pastor David Hollis, Associate PastorMary Beth Bernheisel, Associate Pastor

Jackson First United Methodist Church and Andrews Chapel Campus begin exciting new chapter!

Starting July 7, 2013, there will be three Sunday Worship Services:

8:30 a.m. Andrews Chapel Campus - 3820 Brownsville Rd., Hwy 708:55 a.m. First Awakening Service- Clayton Hall11:00 a.m. Traditional Service- Sanctuary

Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Andrews Chapel • 10:00 a.m. Jackson FUMC

As one body in Christ, everyone is invited to participate in one of these worship services this summer. Be a part of a Sunday School class and together be “the light of the world!”

Combined Worship

June 3010:00 a.m. Sanctuary

“Pillars of Cloud and Fire” Liturgical dancers “Ballet Rejoice”

Lunch in the Gym following worship service

9:00 a.m. Sunday School

Combined Childrens’ Sunday School lesson

in Clayton Hall

HAPPYFATHER’S

DAY

JunE 16

New Feature FOR THE FIRST EDITIONUse the handy removable “Calendar of Events” for your home or office

Beginning with this issue, The First Edition Newsletter will be published monthly. Next publication will be July 10.

Andrews Chapel Grounds Work Days

Beginning Friday, June 21

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Bring tools

Lunch, water, & Gatorade provided.

First Edition June 12, 2013

FUMC Celebrates Two New Sunday School Classes

As we continue to strive toward a goal that everyone at FUMC would belong to a small group, we rejoice that new opportunities to do so abound.

A new class called “The Well” is being led by David and Marilynn Eblen and meeting in Room 114. The class started during Advent and has flourished in the weeks and months since.

Newly Formed Sunday School Class “Friends in Faith” meets in Room 104 and is off to a great start! Greg Stuart taught the first lesson this week from the book by Jimmy Moore “Yes, Lord, I Have Sinned But I Have Several Excellent Excuses” The first class “social” will be Saturday, June 15th – for an Evening of Music “Live at the Barn”. Bring an appetizer and lawn chairs and the class will sit together as a group. Email Pam Jaco (pam@jacksonfumc.org) if you will be attending, and we will reserve some space together.

WELCOME NEW CHURCH FAMILY!

William and Elly Riley joined FUMC on June 2, transferring their membership from other Methodist churches. They have a daughter, Maggie. William is an agricultural supply salesman and Elly is a physician at UT Family Practice in Jackson, TN. Their sponsors are Dave and Julie Bratcher.

Bob and Becky Sadowski joined FUMC on June 9, transferring their membership from another denomination. They are both retired educators. Their sponsors are John and Carolyn Yarbrough.

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The newly formed FUMC Historical Preservation Committee is looking for old photos, documents, china plates, antiques from the church, newspaper clippings, and any other FUMC memorabilia. Want to donate? Contact Jerry Smith, 426-2230 or Betty Morris, 668-5820.

FUMC now has additional parking behind the church

Enter through back parking lot and exit onto Chester St.

Please do not block entrance

Come and be blessed... bring a co-worker or friend!Weekly Wednesday Noon Worship Service

with Holy Communion in the SanctuarySinging • Scripture • Prayer • Reflection

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June 17-219:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

K-5th Grade

There’s still time!Sign up today!

Kids’ Music Day Camp

Mini Fest 2013

$75 per childRegister at jacksonfumc.org

or call 422-4002

July 8-11 • 9:00 a.m. - NoonPreschool-5th Grade

How would you like to be a part of VBS? Training sessions offered each Sunday in June (except 30th) 12:00-12:30 p.m. in the church library. We will explore the different stations and daily schedule. A great way to find out where you can be plugged in.

Sign up your child today in the church lobby or jacksonfumc.org

An Epic Adventure Awaits!

VBS

POW!

Parents On Wednesdays

-

Every Wednesday in June 9am-Noon

Open Gym for the Kids! Fellowship for the Parents!

Experience the FUN of teaching Preschool

Sunday School!

July 7, 14, 21 & 28

If interested, contact Alyssa, amcloughlin@jacksonfumc.org or

422-4002

Summer Fun Days2nd/3rd Grades

June 25 • Pool Party at the Tubbs10 a.m.-Noon

4th/5th GradesJune 27 • Movie: Epic

Time: TBD

Each event will meet at the set location

FUMC Kids’ NewsAlyssa McLoughlin, amcloughlin@jacksonfumc.org

Would you be interested in having your child participate in Parents Day Out at FUMC?

It would operate two days a week from 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. for children ages 8 weeks-5 years of age.

If you are interested, please complete a "Kids at First" card (in church lobbies), complete the online survey (http://svy.mk/ZHdFgj password “fumc”), or contact Ashley Taylor (mspacman1@gmail.com) or

Lauren Harrington (leph0104@gmail.com).

First Edition June 12, 2013 page 4

Adult Council of FUMC presents...

France Magnifique Departing April 24, 2014

...come experience “April in Paris”

“France Magnifique” Tour includes Paris • Seine Dinner Cruise • Normandy • French Riviera

Omaha Beach • Amboise • Winery Tour • TGV Train Avignon• Aix-en-Provence • Nice • Monaco

Tour includes:• 12 glorious days in France• Airfare • 15 meals• Door to door service from FUMC to airport.

Questions? Contact Pam Jaco at 422-4002 or pam@jacksonfumc.org

Adult OpportunitiesPam Jaco, pam@jacksonfumc.org

Join us for an Evening of Music

Live at the Barn!Saturday, June 15 • 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Bring your picnic and enjoy music under the stars by:David Smith, Ann Alece & Company, Allison &

Jeremy Tubbs and more at The Nelson’s Barn 99 Hickory Glenn

Donation $15Tickets: 616-0023

A Benefit for the Morgan McCarty Scholarship Foundation

July 29-August 1SEJAOA Association of Older AdultsLake Junaluska

Platform Speaker: Missy Buchanan – co-author of the book, “My Story, My Song: Mother-Daughter Reflections of Life and Faith” with Robin Roberts and her mother, Lucimarian.

• Other preachers and speakers include Dr. Richard Gentzler, Jr; Bill Carr

• Bible study led by Bishop William Morris

• The Lake Junaluska singers will be the entertainment as well as the Lake Junaluska Centennial Drama team

If enough people attend from the Memphis Conference, we will charter a bus.

For more details, please call Pam Jaco (422-4002) or go towww.lakejunaluska.com/wisdom-and-grace

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4:00 PM Youth Splashdown

Monday, June 24 9:15 AM Staff Prayer 12:30 PM Hub Club Gym time

Tuesday, June 25 7:00 AM Men’s Weekly Bible Study 10:00 AM 2nd/3rd grade Childrens

Summer Fun Day 10:30 AM Note Writing Ministry 12:30 PM Hub Club Gym time 4:15 PM Zumba

Wednesday, June 26 9:00 AM P.O.W. Parents on

Wednesday 12:00 PM Mid-Week Downtown

Worship Service 5:30 PM Soul Sisters prsents: A Book

Club

Thursday, June 27 6:30 AM Youth Mini-Mission Weekend

(offsite) 8:00 AM 4th/5th Grades Summer Fun

Day 4:15 PM Zumba 5:30 PM Missions Team

Friday, June 28 No Church Events Scheduled

Saturday, June 29 10:00 AM Birthday Party in Gym

Sunday, June 30 - Combined Worship 7:30 AM Band Rehearsal 9:00 AM Sunday School 10:00 AM 5th Sunday Combined

Service/Baptism 11:00 AM Fifth Sunday Lunch 4:00 PM Youth Splashdown

Monday, July 1 9:15 AM Staff Prayer 12:30 PM Hub Club Gym time 1:30 PM General Staff/Planning

Session 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball

Tuesday, July 2 7:00 AM Men’s Weekly Bible Study 12:30 PM Hub Club Gym time 4:15 PM Zumba

Wednesday, July 3 12:00 PM Mid-Week Downtown

Worship Service

Thursday, July 4 - Independence Day Church Offices

Closed

Friday, July 5 & Saturday, July 6 Gym in use

Sunday, July 7 - Friday, July 12 Youth Week

Sunday, July 7 - Communion Sunday 7:30 AM Band Rehearsal 8:30 AM Andrews Chapel Service 8:55 AM First Awakening Service 10:00 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Traditional Worship Service

Monday, July 8 - Thursday, July 11 9:00 AM Kingdom Rock - VBS

Monday, July 8 9:15 AM Staff Prayer 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball

Tuesday, July 9 7:00 AM Men’s Weekly Bible Study 4:15 PM Zumba

Wednesday, July 10 11:15 AM Faithful Folders for

Newsletter 12:00 PM Mid-Week Downtown

Worship Service

Thursday, July 11 4:15 PM Zumba 5:30 PM Higher Education Team 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic

Basketball

Friday, July 12 11:00 AM Grandmother’s LAP (offsite)

Saturday, July 13 No Church Events

Scheduled

Monthly Calendar of Events

Calendar subject to change. Please call the church office, 422-4002 or check the calendar at jacksonfumc.org

Sunday, June 16 - Father’s Day 7:30 AM Band Rehearsal 8:55 AM First Awakening Service 10:00 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Traditional Service 12:00 PM Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Youth Missions (leave)

Monday, June 17 - Friday, June 21 9:00 AM Kids Music Camp “Mini-

Fest”

Monday, June 17 9:15 AM Staff Prayer 10:00 AM Rebekah Circle Meeting

(offsite) 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball

Tuesday, June 18 7:00 AM Men’s Weekly Bible Study 4:15 PM Zumba 6:00 PM Stephen Ministry Cont. Ed.

Wednesday, June 19 9:00 AM P.O.W. Parents on

Wednesday 12:00 PM Mid-Week Downtown

Worship Service 6:00 PM Soul Sisters presents:

Picassos and Pizzas 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Party

(offsite)

Thursday, June 20 4:15 PM Zumba 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball

Friday, June 21 5:30 PM Music Mini-Fest

Performance & Reception

Saturday, June 22 12:00 PM Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Youth Missions (return)

Sunday, June 23 7:30 AM Band Rehearsal 8:55 AM First Awakening Service 10:00 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Traditional Service/Baptism

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Memorials & Honoraria

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Laurice Long (Mother of Loyce Ann Frankland) Dick Nunn Sunday School Class Frances Spencer Elaine Dooley Phyllis Armstrong

Amy Maddox (Mother of Sandra McKnight, Sister of Helen Spalding)

James & Suzanne Barnes Alice & Carl Kirkland Jim Hicks Linda & Walter Mischke Ann Murchison Spalding Family – Helen, Greg & Martha Jo Ray & Liz Bryant Ed & Gayle Crocker Ernest & Ann Lawrence (UMCOR - Oklahoma) Pat Goodpaster Suzanne & Hunter Welles (Missions) Herron & Betty Morris (Capital Improvements) Nancy & Larry Brooke Woody & Eliza Forbes (Pastors’ Fund) Chuck & Patsy Camp Mary Ann & Lowell Stonecipher Larry & Beverly Lowrance Debra & Mark Owen Brenda Alexander (Capital Improvements) Greta Hitchcock

Paul Gurley (Father of Paula Butler) James & Suzanne Barnes Alice & Carl Kirkland Jim Hicks Nancy & Larry Brooke Mona & Chuck Miller (Capital Improvements) Jim & Sharon Matthews Inez Burke Tom & Sally Rainey Chris & Pam Carothers (First Awakening Music) Frances Spencer Tommy Cozart & Family Bob & Kay Carney Debra & Mark Owen Brenda Alexander (Capital Improvements) Ella & Gary Williamson

Ed Spencer (Husband of Frances Spencer) Alice & Carl Kirkland

Anne Boswell (Mother of Alicia Franco; Sister of Grailyn Brooks) Jim Hicks Ernest & Ann Lawrence (UMCOR - Oklahoma) Suzanne & Hunter Welles (Missons) Herron & Betty Morris (Capital Improvements) Nancy & Larry Brooke Woody & Eliza Forbes (Pastors’ Fund) Mary Ann & Lowell Stonecipher Allycin & Greg Alexander Bobbie Edwards Lina & Fred Bowyer Charles & Betsy Cox (Pastors’ Fund) Frances Spencer Jimmy & Sally Wallace Jessica Webb Young & Jonathan Webb Lauren Webb, Anthony Switter & Ellis Webb-Switter Bettie Graves Mr. & Mrs. W. M. Hazlehurst Peggy Mandle Ellen Caldwell Bryan & Jennie Allison Ed & Marion Martin (UMCOR – Oklahoma) Brad & Beverly Denton Jennifer & William McClelland (UMCOR) Mona & Chuck Miller (Capital Improvements) Lucy & James Taylor Doris Freeman Tom & Hope Voegeli Patricia Stegall Gene & Joyce Smith (Andrews Chapel) Jim & Sharon Matthews Carlin Diffee Phyllis Armstrong Brenda Alexander (Capital Improvements)

Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Boswell (Parents of Alicia Franco) Alice & Carl Kirkland Ann Murchison Inez Burke Tom & Sally Rainey Alan & Betsy Dement (Capital Improvements) Mary Jane Woodruff

Bill Crowe (Brother of Margaret Harrison) Ann Murchison Tom & Sally Rainey

Velma Frazier (Mother of Beverly Denton) Mona & Chuck Miller (Capital Improvements) Brenda Alexander (Capital Improvements) William Nace (Husband of Roanne Nace) Inez Burke Bob & Kay Carney

Bennett Tillman (Husband of Jo Ellen Tillman) Tom & Sally Rainey Bob & Kay Carney

Carol Armstrong Frankland (Wife of Walter Frankland, Jr.; Sister-in-law of Phyllis Armstrong) Ernest & Ann Lawrence (UMCOR - Oklahoma) Carlin Diffee Inez Burke Frances Frankland & Family

Carolyn Watlington (Mother of Jennie Longmire) Tom & Sally Rainey

Judge Phil Harris (Father of Suzanne Welles) Alice & Carl Kirkland Inez Burke Tom & Sally Rainey

Dr. George DodsonDr. Barnett Scott Woody & Eliza Forbes (Pastors’ Fund)

IN LOVING HONOR OF

Laura Hymers – Confirmation Mona & Chuck Miller (Capital Improvements)

Kathryn & Tyler Swindle – On Their 50th Wedding Anniversary James & Anita Swindle Charles & Betsy Cox (Pastors’ Fund)

Laura Frances & Bill Burnett – On Their 60th Wedding Anniversary Charles & Betsy Cox (Pastors’ Fund)

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First Edition June 12, 2013

First United Methodist Church

“The Current” YouthUnless otherwise noted, all events are open to rising 7th graders

through rising college freshmen.

page 7

Paul and I want to thank everyone for the kindness and concern shown during my recent illness. While in the hospital most of the Spring, I never felt alone, as I could literally “feel” people praying for me.

All of our Church family at First United Methodist Church prayed, sent cards, notes (the art of wrting a handwritten note is not gone), flowers, balloons, stuffed animals, food, visits as well as calling me on the phone to pray for me and with me daily. Our family at FUMC also spread the word that prayer was needed, which I received from people all over the United States.

Complete strangers from different religions, races and backgrounds prayed for me and it worked. How humbling it is to have people pray for you. It is a “God-thing” full of grace and so powerful. Such humility gave me trust in God and the strength I received was through all at FUMC praying for Paul and me.

We trust God will take care of everything, including my weaknesses such as patience. Already God has worked through some brilliant doctors to help me.

My Dad, John Murray, often calls from Little Rock to remind me to read Matthew 10. The whole chapter, he says, “covers all the bases” and there is “no need to worry”. I encourage everyone to re-read Matthew also. Paul and I both urge you all to become organ and tissue donors. May God continue to bless us all.

Thank you FUMC family!Paul & Lisa Rice

“Thank You” to FUMC Members and Staff for honoring me on my 20th year of employment. It has truly been a pleasure to work here. There have been many changes, time has passed quickly and I continue to enjoy it all. Thank you for welcoming me and for giving me the opportunity to serve you.

God bless you all.Charlene Barnett

Appreciation

When I am weak, then I am strong

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

youth week

July 7-12, 2013Cost: $150

Register by: July 1jacksonfumc.org • 731-422-4002 mbernheisel@jacksonfumc.org

GUEST SPEAKER

JOSH VEGORS

BAND

OHIO AVENUE

What is Youth Week?Youth Week is a ministry of First United Methodist Church for rising seventh graders through rising college freshmen. The mornings consist of Bible study and work projects throughout the city. The afternoons and evenings consist of recreation, fellowship, and worship time. The week culminates in an overnight trip Thursday and Friday to the Ocoee River. This is the highlight of our youth ministry year. Young people return year after year because of the bonds they make together, the lessons they learn from the work that they do, and the wisdom they glean from worship and study times. Join us!* The safety of our young people is our top priority, and so

we take great care to ensure that there are plenty of great chaperones, appropriate sleeping arrangements, and more-than-adequate security at all times.

STRONG2013

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First Edition June 12, 2013 page 8

Wanda’s Health TipsGuest columnist: Luke Wright, M. D.

FUMC FOUNDATION“The gifts you make in your estate plan continue to carry the love and grace of God across time. Consider how you might make a lasting gift and leave a legacy for your Church.”

To learn about FUMC’s Foundation and Planned Giving, contact Jim Scott, Chairman. 668-4775 or e-mail patandscotty@aeneas.net

Restricting Salt (Sodium) in Your DietMany people have been advised to limit their salt intake, but it is important to realize that what is meant is reducing SODIUM intake. I like to give five rules of thumb to identify sources of sodium in our diet.

The first rule of thumb is to realize that anything that comes in a can or has been heavily processed has a lot of sodium in it. Look at the small print on the label! Generally, fresh and frozen foods are lower in sodium, but beware of the “flavor enhanced” meats that are actually brined, (salted) before being sold to you. You cannot wash that sodium out, contrary to popular belief.

The second rule of thumb is the grandmother rule. My grandmother was a good cook, and she helped me learn to cook, but I am not sure she thought water would boil without salt in it. It will. So learn to leave it out in cooking. Yes, I watch the cooking shows for fun, too, and I know they are always throwing hands full of salt into the dish, but it is not necessary.

The third rule of thumb is the mother rule. As a kid, we said the blessing, passed the salt, and then it was time to eat. While I think the first step is essential, the second is not. Leave the salt shaker off the table.

The fourth rule of thumb is to watch out for the obviously salty foods: potato chips, pretzels, condiments, etc.

The fifth rule, which is usually the surprise, is that dairy products, with the exception of eggs, are loaded in sodium. Now I do not recommend dry cereal in the morning, but a half glass of milk is better than a whole glass of milk. Have trouble believing it because

milk does not taste salty? Think of it as cheese.

You say food tastes awful without salt? I say it is because your tongue has gotten numb to a high salt intake that it tastes that way. The trick is to reprogram your taste buds. To do that, I recommend taking advantage of the fact that most of us cannot tell the difference between sour and salty. Use lemon juice and vinegars to spice up the taste of food. When I was a kid, vinegar came in two kinds: white and apple cider. Now there are a lot of choices. Be creative and experiment. Besides losing a couple of pounds will probably improve your health, too.

Use other spices to jazz up the taste of food, but remember, use onion and garlic, or at least the powder, not onion salt or garlic salt. What about salt substitute? Most of these are about 50% sodium chloride, so most folks end up doubling the amount and not really avoiding sodium. I suggest you try the approaches mentioned here—you will probably be more successful.

What is the goal? It depends upon your particular health issue, but mostAmericans are eating between 10 and 20 grams of sodium daily. Effective sodium restriction would usually mean 2-3 grams daily. You can see this is an enormous reduction. While you may not be able to get all the way to goal on the first try, keep at it, and you should see improvement in your blood pressure, fluid retention, or other problems related to high sodium intake.

SAVE THE DATE!Summer Wednesday Evening

Fellowship (SWEF)churchwide gathering

Barnyard Activities in Gym and Back Parking Lot• Farmyard Petting Zoo

• Popcorn Bar• “Moosical” Chairs

• Herd the Cattle

Farm Supper Cost: $6 adults, $4 children,

$20 family maximum

Barnyard Bash

July 246-8 PM

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JUNE MISSION FOCUS

Youth Town is a Christian residential treatment center committed to helping troubled teenage youths and their families.

June Mission Chest Needs (for boys ages 12-17): • white t-shirts • white socks• underwear/boxers • athletic shorts• tennis shoes sizes 9, 10, 11, 12

These items may be placed in the Mission Chests located in the church lobbies through the end of June.

Thanks FUMC for Praying, Giving, Feeding, & Building On May 29th, many from FUMC gathered at the completed Habitat for Humanity house at 972 East College St. for a time of prayer and dedication. The crowd attempted to squeeze into the living room but spilled over into the kitchen and a hallway. Such a tremendous presence represented the entirety of the Giving Up for Habitat project in which over 250 people participated by praying, giving, feeding, and building. As I reflected during the dedication on words from the sixth chapter of Luke about the wise building on the rock, I shared my true belief that from start to finish this project has been covered in prayer and led by God’s Spirit.

Our prayers continue for Shanda and Antonio as they make their house a

home. We presented them with a family bible and a beautiful work of art which Pam Chambers painted during one of our worship services. The artwork depicts the symbol used during our “Extraordinary Living” sermon series. Everyone who has participated in the Giving Up for Habitat project has embodied extraordinary living and serving.

Shirley Maniss, who helped lead the prayer team, wished to thank all those who committed to praying eagerly and regularly. She was overwhelmed at the response and we give thanks that prayers continue. We also wish to thank Robert and Tamara Hill for hosting the celebration gathering on the evening of the house dedication. Their hospitality was a window into what we hope the Crayton home at 972 East College St. will offer soon.

Support Youth Town by VolunteeringOn Saturday, July 13th, the annual Jackson Charity Horse Show will take place here in Jackson. Volunteers are needed to help with face-painting, leading pony rides and assisting with a silent auction. This is an opportunity for Sunday school classes and other groups to volunteer as a group. Volunteers are needed for two-hour shifts beginning at 5:30 PM. This is a fun, family-oriented event which supports a most worthwhile cause.Questions? Contact Cynthia Wright @ (731) 293-8411For more information about Youth Town: http://www.youthtown.net/

Mission NotesDavid Hollis, dhollis@jacksonfumc.org

Can You Help?Habitat house owner, Shanda Crayton, is in need of living room and bedroom furniture and drapes or curtains to furnish her new home. Window measurements are:• 30 ½” x 58” (2) • 29 ½ x58”(5) • 33 ½ x34 (1) If you have items to donate or to sell that you think she might be interested in, please email a picture to Bettye Labry at elabry3154@charter.net. Questions? Contact Bettye at 664-3154.

JULY MISSION FOCUS

July Mission Chest items: Aspell Recovery Center• disposable razors• shaving cream• tooth paste • tooth brushes• deodorant• shampoo

Celebration Gathering

Ribbon cutting

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SoulSisters

Becca StevensChaplain, St. Augustine’s at Vanderbilt; Author; Founder, Magdalene House & Thistle

Farms (www.thistlefarms.org)

SAVE THE DATE! AUGUST 24

Women’s Brown Bag Bible StudyJune 28 • Noon-1:00 PM

Bring your lunch and enjoy an hour of devotion and fellowship the 4th Friday of each month.

Consider it a special gift to yourself!111 - Murray Guard Drive, Suite B, Conference Room

SAVE THE DATE!

January 25-26, 2014

Women’s Retreat

June 26 • 5:30 PM • FUMC LibraryCome ready to discuss and share your

thoughts on this month’s book:“Unbroken”

by Laura HillenbrandBooks available at Books-a-Million, The Book Lady, and Amazon.com

SoulSisters

Book Club

Women’s MinistriesSoulSisters

Mary Beth Bernheisel, mbernheisel@jacksonfumc.org

Men’s Bible StudyEnjoy a cup of coffee and discussion

Meets every Tuesday7:00-7:45 a.m.

Room 206, Clayton Hall Conference RoomLeader: Dave Bratcher

Men’s Ministries

First Edition June 12, 2013 page 11

Witness in God’s Sanctuary (WINGS) is a ministry that teams up with Arlington Elementary School to work with several 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders. More than just tutoring, WINGS is an opportunity to be a Christian and spiritual mentor while encouraging academic success.

The story that follows, written by one of FUMC’s members, is yet another of transforming lives, offering Christ to a hurting world and discipleship as a lifestyle.

A SPECIAL GIRL IN A SPECIAL PROGRAM

by Shirley Maniss When someone first approached me about being in the WINGS program, I hesitated. A retired teacher, out of the classroom for seven years, I wasn't sure that I still "had it." Plunging ahead, I was assigned a fourth grader as my first student. It was wonderful being a teacher and a mentor again! We worked together for two years, and then she moved out of state. The following year, I wanted another older student, since my background in education had all been in secondary fields. I knew Jack Page from the program, and that he had an older sister. The only thing I knew about her was through Mike and Nan Simmons who had been Jack's tutors, and were close to the family, and that they had helped Jack, along with other members of the Family Life Forum Sunday School class. Through discussions with Nan and Ann Woodall, our WINGS program director, I learned that Samantha, Jack's sister, did need some help in school, so I asked to work with her this year. Ann did the necessary paperwork, and soon Samantha and I met. So began a great experience with a precious young lady that I am so proud to now to call my "young friend!" In the next few weeks, I became better acquainted with Samantha and was able to help her academically. We studied chemistry,

the periodic table, equations, mathematics, English, and some history. She began to improve and her grades began to rise. She was very quiet and soft-spoken, except when she broke into laughter at one of my mnemonic devices (my crazy tricks of learning.) One

problem continued to plague her, though. She was very shy and soft-spoken. Speaking up in class was very difficult for her and giving any kind of oral report was just too much. We worked each Wednesday on oral presentation and projecting her voice and speaking much louder. Little by little, she began coming out of her shell. Sometimes, our room sounded like a drama class. "Raise your head, Samantha, and make eye contact with your audience. Speak louder!" When she finally did, I squealed with delight! Ann Woodall had asked Samantha to help her set our dinner table on Wednesdays and help with other behind-the-scenes chores, while the other younger students were having "play time" in the gym. She responded well and did a good job. Later, Ann asked her to help set up for devotion and, eventually, to present a part of devotion. This was a "big mountain to climb" for our shy girl. She and I worked on her presentation during part of our study time each week. The first time she presented loudly, clearly and "with feeling", she got a standing ovation from all the teachers! Watching her big smile was a sheer joy to all of us! On a personal basis, Samantha proved to be a very strong young girl. Like a "young mother" to Jack since he was a little boy, together they live with their father, John, in a little white house on Hollywood. John and Samantha take care of the house, laundry and cook the meals. Jack also helps with chores. Through sharing family pictures that are in their living room, family pride shows when they point out each relative and tell how they are related. Samantha lost her beloved grandmother this year, the woman she was probably closest to in her life. All our hearts ached for her, and both Nan and I knew we wanted to spend more quality time with her. Holidays became a special time for all of us this year. At Halloween, Samantha decorated her front porch with pumpkins and gourds. Pretty artistic, that gal!

At Thanksgiving, Samantha and I planned

our individual family dinners together. We agreed on everything but dessert. I stayed with the old standby, pumpkin pie, but Samantha wanted sweet potato pie and asked if I had a good recipe. Well, now anyone who knows me, knows that was a joy! Cooking and baking are not only my hobbies; they are my passions! At Christmas, we again planned our menus together, shopped for Christmas hams, and planned which Christmas cookies we wanted. A wreath for the door and a poinsettia made the planning complete. What fun! Spring came, and Samantha was very interested in getting her drivers' license. So, in preparation, I got her a drivers' manual and we incorporated that into our study time. Meanwhile, Samantha was becoming quite a good little teacher in the devotional time. She held her head up, read loudly and clearly, and really got the children involved. My pride in this special girl continued to grow. Her concentrated study and good study habits got her to the Honor Roll during the last semester. Her grades were high enough that she didn't have to take final exams. We celebrated the end of the school year by going out for Mexican food with Jack. This summer, Samantha continues to help her father at home, to babysit to make some extra money, and together the family is raising a vegetable garden in their yard. Last week, we took a trip to the Memphis Zoo with the WINGS group. Other summer plans are to go to a movie or have lunch, maybe do some cooking together, and even learn to make freezer strawberry jam! We both love shopping, so some "retail therapy" might also be in order along with some swimming fun, too. Next year, Samantha plans to finish her high school education in an accelerated program at JCM, called Bridge Academy. Afterwards, she plans to enroll at Jackson State to pursue a course as a radiology teachnician, and, ultimately to apply this toward her nursing electives. (She may be taking my blood pressure, someday!) At any rate, you can be sure that I will be at her graduation, with a big smile and possibly, a small tear. As for me? I plan to go back to WINGS this fall, remembering a very special young lady named Samantha, and praying that God will bring me another precious child to teach.

WINGSWITNESS IN GOD’S SANCTUARY

First Edition June 12, 2013

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDJACKSON, TENN.PERMIT NO. 116

jacksonfumc.org

Sunday Morning Worship

First United Methodist Church200 South Church StreetJackson, Tennessee 38301 Address Service Requested(731) 422-4002

A Stephen Ministry Congregation

A Safe Sanctuaries Congregation

DOWNTOWN JACKSON

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Sunday, June 16 Father’s Day

Sunday, June 30

Sunday, June 23

Sunday, July 7

8:55 a.m. First Awakening10:00 a.m. Sunday School11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship

9:00 a.m. Sunday School10:00 a.m. Combined Worship in the Sanctuary

8:55 a.m. First Awakening10:00 a.m. Sunday School11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship

Andrews Chapel Services:8:30 a.m. Worship Service9:45 a.m. Sunday School

“Wilderness Food“ Mary Beth Bernheisel, preaching

Scripture: Exodus 1:8-17“The Story” Chapter 4

Dave Bratcher, preaching

“Wandering“ Mary Beth Bernheisel, preaching

Scripture: Deuteronomy 1:19-33• “The Story” Chapter 6

“When It’s Time to Start Over“ Dan Camp, preaching

Scripture: Genesis 45:1-11, 50:20 “The Story” Chapter 3

“Pillars of Cloud and Fire“ Dan Camp, preaching

Scripture: Exodus 13:17-22 “The Story” Chapter 5

The flowers in the Sanctuary are placed in loving memory of George A. Smith, Bettye Fox Smith and Suzanne Hopfer by Jack A. Smith and Family.

FUMC Services:8:55 a.m. First Awakening10:00 a.m. Sunday School11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship