first edition newsletter - septmber 28, 2011

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A Newsletter Publication of First United Methodist Church, Jackson, Tennessee FIRST EDITION September 28, 2011 | Volume 10 Issue 16 jacksonfumc.org SEEKING GOD | KNOWING CHRIST | SHARING HIS LOVE FIRST EDITION Our Journey... Now What? Directions to Horton Farm: 1490 Mifflin Road. Take E. Chester east from the Church and go about 3 miles to the intersection of E. Chester / Beech Bluff Rd. and Mifflin Rd. This is the intersection where East Trinity United Methodist Church is located. Take a right at the 4-way stop and go 5.5 miles to Horton Farms sign, American flag and driveway are on the right. Stay on the asphalt, drive for 1/3 mile and you’ll be there. UMM Fall Fish Fry Tuesday, October 4 • 6:00 p.m. at David and Laurie Horton’s Farm All men and women are invited Fish, hush puppies, slaw and trimmins’ provided by the men. Women, please bring your favorite homemade desserts! Reservation suggested by Noon Friday, September 30. Call the church office at 422-4002. Questions? Contact Robert Hopper, UMM President, 217-7635 or [email protected] FISH IF YOU WISH!!! Annual Giving & Capital Improvements John Yarbrough Chairman Hopefully, you have received in the mail the publication “Our Journey... Now What?” I am sure that as you reviewed the publication you were both proud of our accomplishments, yet surprised at the condition of some of our church building and grounds. We need to make these improvements so that our church and grounds will be more appealing to visitors and our members. As you read through it and look at the pictures, try to imagine... ...the sounds of children playing in the new indoor playground. ...visitors getting information at the new welcome center ...improvements to Clayton Hall that enhance First Awakening and all events in that wonderful space. I encourage you to read and reflect on your commitment to 2012 Annual Giving and Capital Improvements.

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Page 1: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

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

FIRST EDITIONSeptember 28, 2011 | Volume 10 Issue 16 jacksonfumc.org

SEEKING GOD | KNOWING CHRIST | SHARING HIS LOVE

FIRST EDITION

Our Journey...Now What?

Directions to Horton Farm: 1490 Mifflin Road. Take E. Chester east from the Church and go about 3 miles to the intersection of E. Chester / Beech Bluff Rd. and Mifflin Rd. This is the intersection where East Trinity United Methodist Church is located. Take a right at the 4-way stop and go 5.5 miles to Horton Farms sign, American flag and driveway are on the right. Stay on the asphalt, drive for 1/3 mile and you’ll be there.

UMM Fall Fish FryTuesday, October 4 • 6:00 p.m.

at David and Laurie Horton’s FarmAll men and women are invited Fish, hush puppies, slaw and trimmins’ provided by the men. Women, please bring your favorite homemade desserts!Reservation suggested by Noon Friday, September 30. Call the church office at 422-4002. Questions? Contact Robert Hopper, UMM President, 217-7635 or [email protected]

FISH IF YOU WISH!!!

Annual Giving & Capital Improvements

John YarbroughChairman

Hopefully, you have received in the mail the publication “Our Journey... Now What?”I am sure that as you reviewed the publication you were both proud of our accomplishments, yet surprised at the condition of some of our church building and grounds. We need to make these improvements so that our church and grounds will be more appealing to visitors and our members.As you read through it and look at the pictures, try to imagine... ...the sounds of children playing in the new indoor playground....visitors getting information at the new welcome center...improvements to Clayton Hall that enhance First Awakening and all events in that wonderful space.

I encourage you to read and reflect on your commitment to 2012 Annual Giving and Capital Improvements.

Page 2: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011 page 2

Sympathies• Sympathy is extended to Frances

Spencer and family in the death of her sister Kathleen (Kay) Cates in Birmingham, AL.

• Sympathy is extended to Frances Pipkin in the death of her brother Bill Case, Sr.

• Sympathy is extended to Alice Eblen and family in the recent death of her sister Delois Mullins in Henderson, Kentucky.

• Sympathy is extended to Pat Goodpaster and family in the death of her sister Dixie Ann Ross in Kentucky. Ms. Ross is also the aunt of staff member Bobbie Mays.

Greeters for Sunday, October 2Jan Hetzler, Laurie Horton, Scott

& Rhonda Murray, John & Patricia Fortner, Les Jaco, Alan & Molly

Rheney, Carolyn Vaughan, John Mays, Emmett Barker

Greeters for Sunday, October 9John & Carolyn Yarbrough, Jev

Vaughan, Chris & Pam Carothers, Greg Milam, Roger & Kelly Murray, Georgia Whitten, Ryan & Molly Roy,

Jim MatthewsIf you are unable to greet, please find a replacement.

Greeters

CONFIRMAND READERS

Alden Cardwell - October 9My name is Alden Cardwell. I am easy to get along with. I love my family, my dog, and playing sports. I enjoy sushi, peanut butter cups, and coke. My favorite series of books is Harry Potter and my favorite movie is Uncle Buck. I attend the University School of Jackson. My favorite subject is history. I have been at FUMC for one year and look forward to becoming a member of the church.

Kylie Adams - October 2My name is Kylie Madison Adams. I am the daughter of Gregg and Tracy Adams. I have one 9 year old brother, Drake, who is in the 4th grade, and a dog named Daisy. I am 11 years old and in the 6th grade at Medina Middle School. I am on the cheerleading squad and play percussion in the band at school. I also love gymnastics, which I have been taking since age 6 and have been on a competitive team for the last two years. I’m looking forward to confirmation this year. I’m grateful that Aunt Sue is one of my leaders and am excited about growing in Christ together.

FUMC Kids’ NewsProverbs 22:6 - Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Oct 2nd 10:00 a.m. Gathering & Sunday School

Oct 5th 5:30 p.m. Angel Choir Practice 6:00 p.m. Children’s ProgrammingOct 9th 10:00 a.m. Gathering & Sunday SchoolOct 12th 5:30 p.m. Angel Choir Practice 6:00 p.m. Children’s ProgrammingOct 16th 10:00 a.m. Gathering & Sunday SchoolOct 19th 5:30 p.m. Angel Choir Practice 6:00 p.m. Children’s ProgrammingOct 23rd 10:00 a.m. Gathering & Sunday School 5-6:30 p.m. Kids Who CareOct 26th 5:30 p.m. Angel Choir Practice 6:00 p.m. Children’s ProgrammingOct 30th 10:00 a.m. Gathering & Sunday School

Sunday School ends at 10:50 a.m.Please pick up your child in his/her classroom.

Oops! Correction to the Bio ofCharles Lambert Byrd, September 25

“I am 11 years old and attend the University School of Jackson as a sixth grader. I have been on the honor council, play the trumpet, and play football for the Bears. Some of my interests are pitching in baseball, the Lego Club and building with Legos, playing X-Box and Wii, biking, and playing with my dog, a boxer named Big-boy. I also enjoy watching football and the military channel with my dad. When I was 2 months old, on my dad’s birthday, Dec. 19, I was baptized in this church. My sister Courtney is a sophomore at Ole Miss and my parents are Joe and Anita Jo Byrd. I’m excited about confirmation and learning more about my faith this year.”

Planting Faith

Page 3: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011 page 3

The Upper Room Sunday School Class

is excited to host guest teacher,

Joey Williams, Through October 11

The class will also host a get-together at Pam and Mike McCarty's house, 95 Alta Vista Drive, September 18th at 6 p.m.

Everyone welcome!Pam and Mike will provide the meat. Class members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

College Life Class

Sundays Room 107

10 a.m. All college students and recent graduates are always welcome!

Questions? Contact David Hollis at [email protected] or 422-4002

Save the DateSaturday, October 22nd

In honor of 'Make A Difference Day' join hands with others across Jackson to improve our community. Meet in the FUMC gym for a light breakfast at 7:15 a.m. and depart at 8:00 a.m. to serve at a local worksite until around noon. Sites include Southside High School, RIFA, Salvation Army, and Aspell Recovery Center.

Spend your morning making a difference!

ShareFest 2011

Mission Notes

Orientation Meeting for All Leaders of Groups

Interested in Hosting “Room in the Inn”Thursday, October 6th

6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Family Life Forum Class, Rm. 116

Any group that is interested in hosting a session is asked to send at least one person to this meeting. Even if groups have hosted before, it is vital that they attend as there are new policies and procedures this year to discuss. The orientation will be conducted by staff from Area Relief Ministries so it is an ideal time to bring any questions about the program.

Apparel OrdersAvailable for Pickup Sunday, October 2

Stop by Disciple Hall

12:00 NOON - 1:00 PM

You’re invited!

Lunch ($7.00) & ProgramOctober 7, 2011

Clayton HallSpeakers:

Kyle Spurgeon, President/CEO of the Jackson Chamber of

CommerceChris Berryman, Sr. Project Manager of TVA Economic

DevelopmentCary Vaughn, Regional Director,

Southwest Region Business Development Division for TN Topic: “Jackson Regional

Partnership”

Page 4: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011 page 4

The Dream Center: October Mission

Focus

October Mission Chest Needs: • Toilet paper• Paper towels• Laundry detergent• Bleach• Feminine products• Cleaning products• Diapers (all sizes)• Baby wipes

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

Youth Church League

Basketball2012

Sign up NOW!Sign up at gym office

or e-mail [email protected]

Sign up deadline: November 18, 2010

Registration/Jersey Fee: $60.00*(* $25.00 reimbursment with

returned jersey at end of season)

Teams:1. Boy’s High School 2. Girl’s High School

3. Boy’s Middle School4. Girl’s Middle School

Coaches needed See Marilynn for info!

Games start January, 2012Season ends mid-March

WEFWednesday Evening Fellowship

Dinner 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.$6 Adults, $3 Children, $20 Family Maximum

Classes/Activities 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Spiritual ParentingThis 11-week class empowers parents to be the primary nurturers of their childrens’ faith. Families will be transformed as they learn how to create space for God-encounters in everyday life.Book Fee: $10 (optional) • Rm. 112 (Followers) Leaders: Ryan & Molly Roy, Tim & Inge Poole, Chris & Kelly Nye, and Daryll & Jenny McGuire.

Study of I Samuel: One Who Hears GodStudy the life and times of one of Israel’s great leaders and prophets in this 11-week study. Interested in knowing more about a book of the Bible that has inspired poets and authors from William Shakespeare to William Faulkner? Rm. 116 (Chapel) • Leaders: Dan Camp & Cecil Kirk

Being Prayer: Prayer in the Moving, Prayer in the MakingIn this interactive class, participants will explore kinesthetic, embodied prayer as a way of enlivening and deepening their relationship with the creative and creating God who made us, who loves us, and who moves through us without ceasing. Class members will take a look at how they are already moving and making their prayers, and learn new ways to deepen their relationship with God through simple creative activities and movements. Mezzanine • Leaders: Andrea Woods & Tharon Kirk

LEARN • CONNECT • GROW

Stewards of Creation: A Scriptural Study of SustainabilityThis 6-week course explores the connections among scripture, theology, and creation stewardship. Participants will receive a framework for their own understanding and actions regarding these issues which affect us all. Rm. 114 (former Emmaus Class) Leaders: Phillip Ryan & David Hollis

Ten Things Jesus Never Said - NEW CLASS BEGINS OCT 19Mike Butler will lead a five week class based on the book Ten Things Jesus Never Said by Will Davis Jr. Rm. 114 (former Emmaus Class) Leaders: Mike Butler

Financial Peace University CANCELLED

Page 5: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011 page 5

Adult OpportunitiesContact Pam Jaco, [email protected], 422-4002

October 15 2:00 p.m.Orpheum Theatre

• Cost: $124, includes charter bus, premium orchestra seating, lots of fun!

• Dutch treat supper after the play.

• Leave from church at 11:45 a.m.Please call the church office,

422-4002, to reserve your ticket.

February 18, 2012 2:00 p.m.

Orpheum TheatreExperience the music and story of our “hometown hero”, Carl Perkins, along with Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash.

A once in

a lifetime

ROCK & ROLL

ADVENTURE

Cost: $105. Includes charter bus, theatre ticket, and “a-whole-

lot-of-shaking!”Tickets now available for purchase. Call the church office, 422-4002, and reserve yours.

Program 11:00 a.m. • Luncheon 12:00 noon • Clayton Hall • $6.00 per personTo make reservations, call the church office at 422-4002.

Deadline for reservations is 9:00 a.m. Monday, October 17.

“The South Did This to Me”Johnson has covered the South for over 30 years as a newsletter reporter and columnist.

Reserve your spot now!

Nationally syndicated columnistRheta Grimsley-Johnson

December 8-9 SAVE THE DATE!Come experience the famous “Rockettes Christmas Spectacular” followed by a night at the glorious Opryland Hotel decorated in all its holiday splendor. Next day, lunch and sightseeing in Historic Franklin.

Leave all the driving to us - transportation on a chartered bus provided.

Reserve your spot today... Call Pam at 422-4002 or email [email protected]

Friday, October 21

Christmas at Opryland

Hoteland Rockettes

Christmas Spectacular

plus Historic Franklin decorated for Christmas

Page 6: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011 page 6

Weekly Opportunities

Sunday, October 2 Senior High Canoe Trip 9:00 AM Communion First Awakening Service 10:00 AM Sunday School Newcomer Class 11:00 AM Communion Traditional Service 5:00 PM “Current” UMY Cookout

Monday, October 3 10:00 AM Moms on Monday 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball 6:30 PM Task Force on Women’s

Ministry 7:00 PM Boy Scouts - Troop 12 7:30 PM Men’s Basketball

Tuesday, October 4 11:30 AM Key Leaders Meeting 1:00 PM Staff Meeting 4:15 PM Zumba 6:00 PM United Methodist Men

Cookout

Wednesday, October 5 10:00 AM Pastors Bible Study Invitation to Presence 3:30 PM WINGS (Witnessing IN

God’s Sanctuary) 3:30 PM WEF Open Gym 5:00 PM WEF Dinners City Wide 5:30 PM Angel Choir Practice 5:45 PM Confirmation Class 6:00 PM Good News Choir Practice Children’s WEF

Programming First Samuel Study WEF

Class Prime Ringers Spiritual Parenting WEF

Class Stewards of Creation WEF

Class WEF Recreation Program

“Being Prayer” 6:30 PM Celebration Singers Practice 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal

Thursday, October 6 4:15 PM Zumba 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball 6:30 PM Room in the Inn Orientation

Friday, October 7 12:00 PM First Friday Forum

WELC

OME New Members & Anyone Interested

You are invited to attend the

Newcomer ClassSunday, October 210:00 - 10:50 a.m.

Clayton Hall Conference Room

Music NotesDarian Krimm, Director of Music and Worship Arts

Wesley Sunday School Class

invites anyone interested!

Joy Krimm presents

Marion Anderson“An Incomparable Lady”One of the finest contraltos of her time

Sunday, October 1610:00 AM

FUMC Sanctuary

Want your newsletter by e-mail?

To subscribe to e-mail newsletters, go to jacksonfumc.org and click the envelope icon shown here.

The newsletter may be viewed as a PDF at jacksonfumc.org (just click the purple button) or as an interactive document at issuu.com/fumcpublications

Page 7: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011

page 7

Weekly Opportunities

Saturday, October 8 No Events Scheduled

Sunday, October 9 9:00 AM First Awakening Service 10:00 AM Sunday School 11:00 AM Traditional Service 5:00 PM “Current” UMY

Monday, October 10 10:00 AM Moms on Monday 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball 7:00 PM Boy Scouts - Troop 12 7:30 PM Men’s Basketball

Tuesday, October 11 7:00 AM UMM Bible Study 1:00 PM Conference Report Meeting 4:15 PM Zumba

Wednesday, October 12 10:00 AM Pastors Bible Study 10:00 AM Invitation to Presence 3:30 PM WINGS (Witnessing IN

God’s Sanctuary) 3:30 PM WEF Open Gym 5:00 PM WEF Dinners 5:30 PM Angel Choir Practice 5:45 PM Confirmation Class 6:00 PM Good News Choir Practice Children’s WEF

Programming First Samuel Study WEF

Class Prime Ringers Spiritual Parenting WEF

Class Stewards of Creation WEF

Class WEF Recreation Program

“Being Prayer” 6:30 PM Celebration Singers Practice 7:00 PM Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal

Thursday, October 13 4:15 PM Zumba 5:30 PM Sr. Olympic Basketball

Friday, October 14 11:00 AM Grandmother’s LAP (Love

and Praise) Group 6:00 PM Cornerstone Pentecostal

Church - Lock In

Saturday, October 15 10:00 AM Member Birthday Party

(McGuire) 11:30 AM “Memphis The Musical” at

the Orpheum

Memorials & Honoraria

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Mary Cates (Sister of Frances Spencer) Peggy Jimerson

Dixie Ross (Sister of Pat Goodpaster; Aunt of Bobbie Mays) Jim & Ida Holmes

Elizabeth Patterson (Mother of Donna Ellis) Dianne & Charles Taylor Sandra & Bill Perkins John & Barbara New Sylvia Evans Bill, Kaye & Dorothy Doak Janis & David Fite (Pastors’ Fund) Alan & Betsy Dement (Capital Improvement)

Mary Arthur Parish (Sister of Thomasine Witherspoon) Jimmy & Elaine Ward Betsy Babb (Pastors’ Fund) Edyth Worthy Pat & Jim Scott

Barnett Scott (Husband of May Scott) Sylvia Evans Betsy Babb (Pastors’ Fund) Pat & Jim Scott Emmett & Barbara Barker (Pastors’ Fund) Bubba & Carolyn Walker Lowell & Mary Ann Stonecipher Patty & Don Lewis Bert & Ann Blair Parke Dr & Mrs. James M. Wilson & Family Bill & Peggy McGuire Frank & Darleen Lawrence Dick, Susan, Elliott & Sarah Cabot Morris Bruce & Dottie Dorris Dorotha Holcomb West Tennessee Healthcare Nancy & Rodgers Menzies Dr. & Mrs. Rex Amonette & Staff of Memphis Dermatology Clinic Mr. & Mrs. James Boswell Mrs. Alicia B. Franco Mrs. Molly B. Allen Peggy Albright Greg & Esther Milam Walter Mischke Dr. John Nelson

Lee Powers Fite (Brother of David Fite) Upper Room Sunday School Ann & Ernest Lawrence Dianne & Charles Taylor Sandra & Bill Perkins

Harrell Elliott Betsy Babb (Pastors’ Fund) Walter Mischke

Zena Western (Mother of Marilyn Jackson) Dr & Mrs. James M. Wilson & Family

Kathryn Fonda (Mother of Kaye Hill) Betsy Babb (Pastors’ Fund) Dr & Mrs. James M. Wilson & Family Frank & Darleen Lawrence Dorotha Holcomb Walter Mischke Terri Townsend Marty & Al Noles (Pastors’ Fund) Woody & Eliza Forbes

David Tipton (Brother of Sue Harvey) Betsy Babb (Pastors’ Fund) Pat & Jim Scott Dr & Mrs. James M. Wilson & Family Frank & Darleen Lawrence Greg & Esther Milam Woody & Eliza Forbes Dr. John Nelson

Margaret “Bitsy” Woodson (Sister of Reba Dudley) Bubba & Carolyn Walker Mr. & Mrs. James Boswell Mrs. Alicia B. Franco Mrs. Molly B. Allen

Jerry Barrix (Husband of Phyllis Barrix, Father of Jerry Barrix) Walter Mischke

Hugh Stanton (Brother of Ida Holmes) Walter Mischke

Erlyn WebbJohn Townsend Mr. & Mrs. James Boswell Mrs. Alicia B. Franco Mrs. Molly B. Allen

Page 8: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011

Youth Programming “The Current”

Wednesday & Sunday, 5:00-7:00 p.m.

BARF in the Hay (Bring a Real Friend!) 7th-12th gradesOctober 30

page 8

Paint, talk, scrap book, laugh, knit, snack, collage, draw, sew,

talk, snack, CREATE!

6-10 PMMezzanineSeptember

30Bring a snack to share.

Come and go as you like!

Contact Marilynn Eblen at [email protected]

Altar Guild MemorialsThe FUMC Altar Guild is now accepting memorials and honoraria for use in decorating the church during the Advent season. If you would like to make a gift in memory or honor of a loved one, please mail or bring your contribution to the church office by Friday, December 2. Names will be listed in the Christmas Newsletter, December 14, and the Sunday bulletin, December 18. Please mark your check “Christmas Decorations” and include a note with the name(s) as you would like them to appear. Contributions may be sent to: FUMC, Attn. Charlene Barnett, 200 S. Church St., Jackson, TN 38301. If you have any questions, please call Charlene at the church office, 422-4002 or email [email protected].

Women’s MinistriesWomen’s Brown Bag Bible StudyFridays starting October 7

12 noon - 1:00 p.m.The Queen Bees

Meet in the Sunroom

2732 Highland AvenueJoin us on your Lunch Break for a time of refreshment and renewal. Women of all ages and stages invited!

Moms On Mondays • 10:00 am - NoonBring your children to play in the church gym and

enjoy the company of other MOMs!No reservations necessary

Invite your friends and enjoy the fellowship!

Women’s

Brown

Bag

Bible

Study

NEW

Adult Sunday School Leaders Huddle

Wednesday, October 19th 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.

Room 102 (Good Goats)We will discuss new curriculum offerings and what support/training would be helpful. Please contact Tricia Odom, 422-4002 to RSVP.

Want to E-Mail Your Sunday School Class or Other Group?1. Visit www.jacksonfumc.org and Click Member

Login (top right corner).2. First visit? Go to Need a login? Click here, a pass-

word will be emailed to you. 3. Returning user? Enter your e-mail address or user-

name and password.4. On your home page, find the heading “My Groups”

For the desired group, click the drop down list under “action” and select “Group E-mail”.

Click the “Go” button next to that group.5. Compose your message and click “Send Message”

Page 9: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011

FUMC Oklahoma Mission Trip - A Visit to Cookson CenterPart 2 of 2 by Tharon Kirk

On Saturday, our group attended the 59th Cherokee National Holiday which was held in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. The Cherokee Nation sponsors this holiday which is a celebration of their heritage and history. Meri, our missionary, gave us some suggestions as to what we might enjoy and explanations as to what we might see. The event is a weekend affair but we were only able to take in some of the Saturday events.

During the morning, the main event was a parade. We drove in to Tahlequah thinking that we were late. Not to worry - things run on Indian time which means when everyone is there and ready, something begins. So, we were early and had a chance to wander around the square and visit the booths. Most of us got free tee shirts, water bottles, and free bottles of water. It also provided an opportunity to talk with people and observe as we waited in line. People came from throughout the region. Many told me that they come every year. The parade finally began with a prayer and was led by the Cherokee Honor Guard carrying the various flags of the US, Oklahoma, and Cherokee Nation, etc. The Honor Guard was composed entirely of Cherokee (men & women) who have served in the US Military. One of the men had to be a WWII veteran. We were to see this Honor Guard more than once during the day!

We returned to the Center to eat lunch and cool down a bit as it was extremely hot and dry there. The minute we crossed into OK., there were signs saying that the region was under a burn ban. During the afternoon

page 9

we went to the Cherokee Cultural Center. There we visited a replica of an 1850s Cherokee village. It was very much like any 1850s village as the Cherokee adapted to the White Man’s culture quite rapidly. Docents who were dressed for the period demonstrated how things were done in that time. Then we toured a traditional Cherokee village which demonstrated how the Cherokee lived prior to the coming of the White Man. Additionally, there were Cherokee demonstrating various traditional skills. Some of us also viewed the judged art exhibit which showcased various art media.

After leaving the cultural center, we made our way to the cultural grounds where the Pow Wow was being held. We arrived in time to see some gourd dancing before the supper break. Cecil enjoyed an Indian meal hosted by the Cherokee Gourd Society. We found seats in the bleachers where we would not be facing the sun and enjoyed watching the crowd and dancing participants arrive. We saw more gourd dancing and got a better look at the drummers and singers who sit in the middle of the arena and really control what happens. At 8:00 p.m. the Grand entry began. Everyone who was going to be dancing or had done some dancing came into the arena to the drums and singing. Traditional dress was worn by the participants. It was a very colorful, awe-inspiring sight and it took a long time to get everyone in. We observed some of the social dancing during which many people were honored . We had hoped

to see the competitive dancing but we were so tired and it still had not started by 9:00 pm so we left that for another trip.

On Sunday, we attended church at Canterbury Chapel in Vian. Meri has pastored this church for a number of years. It is a 12-Step Church. We were there on Communion Sunday which is also potluck Sunday. Rather than throw out our leftovers, we turned them into dishes that we could carry to the potluck. The church was

very warm and welcoming. We were made to feel very at home right away. Almost everyone who is a member of this church is in some type of recovery. Many have spent time in prison. But these were obviously persons who have experienced redemption and who are making a difference in their community and families now. It was very uplifting and inspiring to worship with them and visit over lunch.

Here are some observations the group shared with one another based on our experience: 1) The Cherokee are a very patriotic people. We were to see this over and over at each event we attended. There was great pride in the service that the Cherokee Nation has given to the U.S. A. We found this especially touching as the U.S.A . has not always been fair with the Cherokee people as evidenced by their history. 2) The Cherokee have a strong spiritual base. Each event we attended began with prayer and it was obviously not perfunctory prayer but one sensed a real passion and love for God. 3) Older persons and children both are very honored. In the parade and in the dancing, it was the elders and the children that were honored. 4) Giving is an important aspect of life as a Cherokee. We saw this in the dances when people were honored; in the way we were received at the church; and in the stories that we heard. 5) We came away glad that FUMC helps support Meri’s work. She is very gifted and has a very obvious love for those with whom she lives and works. We saw lots of evidence of how God has used her and the Center to bring His love to many who feel forgotten and hopeless. We hope to share some of the stories we heard in the coming weeks. When we go to Cookson again, I hope you will plan to go. You won’t be sorry and you will come away blessed!

Page 10: First Edition Newsletter - Septmber 28, 2011

First Edition September 28, 2011

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDJACKSON, TENN.PERMIT NO. 116

jacksonfumc.org

Sunday Morning Worship

200 South Church StreetJackson, Tennessee 38301 Address Service Requested(731) 422-4002

A Stephen Ministry Congregation

A Safe Sanctuaries Congregation

First United Methodist Church

SEEKING GOD | KNOWING CHRIST | SHARING HIS LOVE

Traditional Worship ServiceSanctuary • 11:00 a.m.

First Awakening Contemporary Worship Service Clayton Hall • 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School

10:00 a.m.

Facebook.comFUMC Jackson TN

Twitter.comtwitter.com/jacksonfumc

SundayOctober 9

SundayOctober 2

“Gain All You Can” Dan Camp, preaching • Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30

“Save All You Can”David Hollis, preaching • Scripture: Luke 12:13-21

Next newsletter publication is October 12

SEEKING GODKNOWING CHRISTSHARING HIS LOVE