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PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

May 18, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

HONOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE THIS SUNDAY

Sean Haynes is New Hope’s graduate of 2012. Sean studied electronics at Lebanon High School and will be enrolling at Cumberland University on a scholarship. While at Cumberland he will major in computer gaming. We will be honoring our graduate Sean this Sunday May 20, 2012.

It is rare that we have only one graduating from high school this year. That is OK, because Sean is very special. He was born and raised in this church. He was baptized in infancy in this church, and became a child of the covenant. He confirmed his baptism by making his own profession of faith and taking the vows of the covenant. His father and mother, Robbie and Karen, were raised in this church. They met each other and married in this church. His maternal grandparents, Jimmy and Elizabeth Reynolds, are long time members of this church. In fact, Elizabeth’s mother, Lora Bentley, was a member of this church, so that makes Sean a 4^th generation member. His paternal grandmother Mary Jo Haynes is a long time member of this church, as was her husband before his death. With the way we move around in today’s world, it is becoming far less often that kids go all the way from birth through high school in the same church. It is beautiful when it happens, from one generation to another.

Ascension Sunday

“Ascension may be one of the most under-celebrated events in the church’s life” (Eugene Peterson, in “Practice Resurrection”

After Jesus rose from the dead He lived on earth for 40 days. People who loved Him saw Him at various times and in a number of places. He restored their faith. He assured them that they were forgiven. He told them what He wanted them to do. On the fortieth day from resurrection He went back to heaven. (Since 40 days after Easter is on Thursday, in our case last Thursday, most churches celebrate Ascension on the Sunday after, which this year is May 20)

Ascension reminds us that Christ sits on the right hand of God even to this day, and will forever. He intercedes for us to the Father. The Father has given him all power. One day he is ‘gonna’ come back to earth, claim his own, and destroy evil forever.

Wow!!! It would seem that the church would pay more attention to Ascension Sunday. We celebrate the birth of Christ (he came down from heaven to save us). We celebrate his resurrection (He has given us a whole new life of victory, even over death). These are great events in salvation history.

But what about Ascension? It ranks right up there with any other event in salvation history. By the Ascension God takes the birth, the death, and the resurrection right up there beside the Father, on His right hand. The Christ who came down lower than we are by descending into hades after death, is back on the throne, pleading for us sinners before the Holy God.

From that stance He is one day a ‘commin after us’. Yes, o yes. “He ascended into heaven, sittith on the right hand of God, from thence he shall come to judge the living and the dead.”

Actually, Ascension is better positioned to be celebrated by the average Christian than is Christmas or Easter. Those two holidays have become so commercialized and invite so much in the way of secular customs that have little to do with the real meaning. The world calls no attention to Ascension Sunday. No need for decorations, material gifts, new clothing. It is pretty bland, except when you realize what it really means for your soul. He is Lord of Lord, King of Kings, reigning over the whole universe, our Savior. Let us celebrate his Lordship this Sunday.

With our People

- Elizabeth Reynolds had a bad fall at home last Friday. Thought it was broken bone, but now they say it is that the shoulder ball was pushed up into the joint, and still not sure what the treatment will be. Will see another orthopedic doctor Monday. It is very uncomfortable and we pray that the doctor will know Monday the treatment. Her arm is in a sling.

- Savanah Curtis will work at a life-guard this Summer.

- Joyce Burrow is flying to Dallas Texas tomorrow to attend the 90^th birthday celebration for one of her sisters. One of her daughters and a granddaughter are going with her. She will be back Monday.

- My arthritis, which lay dorment after last June’s surgery until now, has come back bad in my left hand and right foot. Left hand so swollen I have to leave off my wedding ring, so don’t get alarmed, I ain’t going anywhere. Looks like I will have to go back on that expensive medicine called Enbrel.

- Rose Lawrence has been having some medical problems, but hopes to be back in church this Sunday.

- Kathy Binney is back in town after being gone for several weeks on a work assignment.

- My first cousin by marriage died this week. Andrea and my cousin John McCright had been married 53 years. She has been going down for more than three years, after a heart attack and a stroke.

SUNDAY’S COMING UP

May 27

- Memorial Sunday

Will honor by name those in the congregation who are serving or have served in the Military.
We remember especially those who have died in the defense of our country, and others who are serving or have served in the military. Please send me the names and information of friends or loved ones who are presently serving in the military, and especially those who are presently in war zones or are headed that way. I have last year’s list….let me know of changes

- Pentecost Sunday

- Adam Jonathan Brown, son of Brittany Brown, will be baptised

Adam’s grandparents are inviting the entire congregation to celebrate Adam’s first birthday as follows

INVITATION FROM THE BROWN’S

Bill and Kelly Brown would like for New Hope to come celebrate Adam’s first birthday on 5/27. Everybody has been so supportive of Brittany and Adam through this first year and we would just like to thank you for that. We would like for folks from New Hope to not bring gifts, you all have done more than enough already. Please just come celebrate with us. – the Browns

You’re invited to celebrate with us!!!

It’s Adam’s 1^st Birthday.

We’d like for you to join in on the fun.

Where: Charlie Daniels Pork Pavilion 4

1100 Charlie Daniels Parkway

Mt. Juliet TN 37122

When: 5/27 1:30-3:30 pm

What: Food and fun for all ages!

Please RSVP with count and children ages to Kelly Brown

Email: kbsquared@thegeekyfish.com

mobile: 615 830 9368

We look forward to seeing you there

June 3

- Communion Sunday

- First Day of Synodic Youth Camp at Crystal Springs

I am lonesome to see you and anxious to worship with you. 85 people worshiped with us last Sunday. Bring someone else with you this Sunday. It is a privilege and a responsibility to do so. Pastor B

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

May 11, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST THIS SUNDAY BEGINNING AT 9:00 AM IN FELLOWSHIP HALL

- Provided by the men of the church to honor our mothers and enjoy a church wide fellowship.

- We invite every member of the congregation to join in this festive occasion.

- There will be no Sunday School this Sunday.

- Our thanks to Bobby Thompson for heading. Call him at 429-5671 if you have any questions

Sermon at 10 o’clock worship: “THE THREE SEASONS OF MOTHERHOOD”

- The message is informed by several passages of Scripture. If you can take time to read these selections ahead of time the message may mean more to you.

- Psalms 139:13-16; Deut. 6:6-8, 20-25; I Samuel 1:21-28; Psalm 131; Luke 2:41-52

- The children of the church will pass out the roses for the Mothers during children’s time, and Pastor will say a special prayer for those mothers who currently have children in their homes, and another prayer of blessing for those whose children are grown and gone.

————————-

KEEP DATE OPEN FOR 200th ANNIVERSARY

SEPT. 16

PUT ON YOUR CALENDAR “Bicentennial Celebration” on Sunday September 16, 2012. We are planning an all day celebration on the church grounds. We are going to need every member of this congregation doing your part if we are going to pull this off in the manner such an occasion deserves. We even asked the Titans to play out of town that Sunday, all the way to San Diego, and to not start the game until 3:15, as their way of respecting this important event. Thanks for their cooperation.

Use the website which is as usual on our heading on the top of our page. Robbie does a good job keeping this attractive.

- Want to get an early glimpse of the Sunday Worship Bulletin you will find it on the web after mid morning on Saturday.

- If you miss getting the pastor notes or want to look up something from past issues, go to the website.

- If you want to get information about our church programs and beliefs to share with a friend you are inviting, get it from the website, or direct him/her to the website.

- Want to get latest news about what is going on in our denomination, go to our website and click on the link to the denomination.

- Want to find a location and address of any CP Church in the world, you can get the directory from the denominatinal link.

- Want helps for your study group. You can get information about CP Resources.

- And all this is just a beginning. Our web site is one of the most useful tools we have. Use it.

SESSION TUESDAY NIGHT

- As usual, every one of the six elders were present, along with the session clerk, Mary Ann Smith, and Youth Pastor Brad Unland, and myself. (CON’T ON BACK)

- We had several deep prayers for people connected with our church and their kin who are going through trying times.

- We prayed serously for the effectiveness of our church in fulfilling its mission as the Body of Christ.

- We made some adjustments in the way we serve communion to children’s church. When we start the song preceeding communion an elder will signal them to come into the sanctuary for the communion service. (the CP Church invites all believers to partake in communion. Many parents teach their children that they need to wait until they have made their professin of faith and have been baptised before taking communion. Othe parents carefully teach their baptised children what the communion means, and when they seem to understand, allow them to partake. Our denomination says that is OK. It is the parent’s call)

- The Treasurer’s Report shows our monthly offerings

January $7066
February $6727
March $5943
April $7054
Total this year $26790. Average per month $6698
Budget needs per month (without van) = $6667

- Estimated cost of Van $500 per month for payment, insurance, maintenance, fuel. This means we will need nearly $500 per month increase in offerings to stay even with budget. Pray that we make it, and give a little extra if you can.

- We are getting close to purchasing a van, which will be a tool in increasing the fellowship among us.

- Heard a very good report from presbytery, made by Jimmy Reynolds, our representative

- Approved money for deep cleaning for the nursery

- Light fixtures to light our outside sign have arrived and will be installed soon.

- With sadness put in the minutes the death of Wayne Horton, April 12.

- Began deep assessment about the growth of our church and how to make our church healthier and more effective. Creating a stronger “Culture of Hospitality” is high on the list. Plans will be fleshed out at next meeting.

INVITATION FROM THE BROWN’S

Bill and Kelly Brown would like for New Hope to come celebrate Adam’s first birthday on 5/27. Everybody has been so supportive of Brittany and Adam through this first year and we would just like to thank you for that. The invite is attached and we will print a few out and put them on the table in the narthex for those who don’t deal with email. We would like for folks from New Hope to not bring gifts, you all have done more than enough already. Please just come celebrate with us. – the Browns

You’re invited to celebrate with us!!!

It’s Adam’s 1^st Birthday.

We’d like for you to join in on the fun.

Where: Charlie Daniels Pork Pavilion 4

1100 Charlie Daniels Parkway

Mt. Juliet TN 37122

When: 5/27 1:30-3:30 pm

What: Food and fun for all ages!

Please RSVP with count and children ages to Kelly Brown

Email: kbsquared@thegeekyfish.com

mobile: 615 830 9368

We look forward to seeing you there

With Our People: Patty Tomlison is recovering from pneumonia

——————-

Sunday will be a great day. Don’t miss it. Pastor B

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

May 4, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

2012 VBS!

We will have a quick VBS meeting in the fellowship hall following this Sunday’s worship service. We want to assign everyone to all the spots and begin getting them the information they need to work in VBS. The meeting will last no more than 15 to 20 minutes.

The dates as of now are July 9th – 13th! Thanks Brad

2012 Camp Dates

Crystal Springs Camp is proud to be accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA).

Crystal Springs Camp is located about 10 miles southeast of Fayetteville, Tennessee, near Corder’s Cross Roads, between Kelso and Flintville, Tennessee. The camp was built around Crystal Springs Lake, which is fed by a group of cold water springs. A pier and dock extend into the lake for fishing and boating purposes. The highlight of any camper or visitor is the view of the island at the upper end of the lake that has a white cross, which is lighted at night and reflects beautifully during any worship service.

Some reasons why our children and youth should consider going to Camp at Crystal Springs

CS is owned and operated by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
It is a Cumberland Presbyterian tradition. CP’s have been going there for many, many years. My own children, who are in their 50’s now, will tell you that some of their fondest memories of their childhood and youth years happened at Crystal Springs Camp
Many church camps are available, but Crystal Springs is the only one that is staffed by Cumberland Presbyterian pastors, youth pastors, and outstanding lay people.
It is not sectarian, but the “flavor” is Cumberland Presbyterian, enhancing experiences our kids have at New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
CS attenders will form many close friendships with other Cumberland Presbyterians in our area, and will have a chance to keep alive those friendships at Presbyterial Youth Retreats and other gatherings throughout the year.
CS is a fine upscale campsite due to the money and labor that has been contributed through the last many years.
CS is managed by Brent Wills, one of the finest young ministers in our presbytery — former youth director at the Lebanon Church and now pastor of Jerusalem and Mt. Tabor Churches near Murfreesboro.
The rates are unbelievably low, compared to other church camps. That is because it is partly underwritten by our presbytery, which our church contributes to through the Presbyterial budget. (We pay that whether any of our kids go or not.)
In addition to that, New Hope Church, pays ½ the fee for all children and youth who regularly attend our church.
A bunch of our own going to camp together greatly enhances their sense of community amoung themselves, and increases their participation in the youth activities back home.

CAMPS THIS YEAR

Synodic Camp (Entering 10th Grade-2012 Graduates)

June 3-8th

Jr. High Camp (Entering 7th Grade—9th Grade)

June 10-15th

Junior Camp (Entering 4th-6th Grades)

June 24-29th

Church Camp Forms are available from Brad Unland

The fees, including meals, lodging, recreational, materials, and insurance for the Junior and Junior High camps are: $160 for early registration if in by May 31…..$175 after that.

Our people may invite guests, but the ½ fee is available for regular attenders at our church only.

——–

SUNDAYS IN MAY

Sunday, 6^th – Holy Communion: Sermon on Eph. 6:4. “LEADING THE LITTLE ONES IN THE WAY OF THE MASTER”

Children’s Church led by Brad Unland. Ben Spicer will do special music.

Sunday 13^th, Mother’s Day. The men of the church, headed by Bobby Thompson, will prepare breakfast to honor our mothers. The entire church is invited to come. 9:00 AM. No Sunday School.

Sunday 20th – Senior Day. According to my records Sean Haynes is our only high school graduate this year. If there are others, let me know.

Sunday 27^th – Adam Johnathan Brown, son of Brittany Brown, and grandson of Bill and Kelly Brown, will be baptized. It is also Pentecost Sunday.

———

The Church Session monthly meeting will be at 6:30 next Tuesday, May 8. All session meetings are open to any member of the congregation unless previously announced otherwise.

VOLUNEER OPPORTUNITIES

We are looking for someone with computer skills that would come to the church office on Mondays to enter attendance data in Fellowship One. Talk to Brad Unland or Kelly Brown about what would be required. Kelly will conduct the training.
We need another lady to come and work with Mary Ann Smith in the office for 3 hours on Thursdays. Brad and I are usually here on Tuesdays, but Thursdays are a little lonely and she could use some help.
In fact, we could use two volunteers for 3 hours in the office Monday – Thursday. Many Ann comes on Tuesday and Thursday, it would be good to have two ladies on Monday and Wednesday. If you would like to do this on one or two days let me know. Nice fellowship, and work that will help do some light office work, and to have someone “present” at the church.
We also need one person to be in charge of “storage” – a person who knows where everything is, will keep up with the contents, and to be able to help people find what they need when they need it. This person would need to be available by phone most days.

Thanks to Ray Jones, Bill Brown, and Jimmy Reynolds for taking turns mowing the church lawn.

Sunday will be a great day. Don’t miss it.

Pastor B

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

April 27, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

This Sunday Worship

Sermon: “Growing Up in the Fellowship of Believers”

Eph 4:15-16; John 17:21-23; I John 1:3, 6, 7; Acts 2:44-47; Phil. 3:8-11

Ben Spicer is on vacation and Karen Aigner will lead the music. Rebecca Butler will do the special music. Brad Unland will do the children’s sermon.

HEIRLOOMS

While cleaning out the closets in the church buildings we came across a number of car license plate ads for the church. The message is “We Attend New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 7845 Coles Ferry Pike, etc.” A nice line drawing picture of the old sanctuary before it was replaced by our present sanctuary. The picture makes them a little outdated, but some of you may want one or more for souvineers before we put them away. They will be on the table in the narthex the next two Sundays; then we will put them away until bi-centennial Sunday in September. Some of our visitors then may want one.

WILSON COUNTY DAY OF PRAYER NEXT THURSDAY

WHAT = WILSON CO. DAY OF PRAYERWHO = Everyone! Patriotic concert at 11:30 to 12 Noon

WHEN = Thursday – May 3, 2012 - Speakers from 12 Noon to 1 PM

WHERE = Wilson Co. Courthouse - Front steps – Lebanon, TN

WEBSITE = http://www.WilsonCountyDayOfPrayer.com

FACEBOOK = http://www.Facebook.com/WilsonCountyDayOfPrayer

SPEAKERS INCLUDE:Grand Ole Opry Member – Charlie Daniels

US Congresswoman – Diane Black

TN State Senator Dist 17 – Mae Beavers

TN 40th District Rep. – Terri Lynn Weaver

TN 46th District Rep. – Mark Pody

City Of Lebanon Mayor – Philip Craighead

City Of Mt. Juliet Mayor – Ed Hagerty

City Of Watertown Mayor – Michael Jennings

Host of the “Bridges” TV show – Monica Schmelter

Mt. Juliet City Manager – Kenny Martin

In 1988, Congress passed legislation setting the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer, and each year the president signs a proclamation relating to the event. This year, the National Day of Prayer is May 3. If you’d like to learn more about this annual emphasis, or find out about related events in your state, visit NationalDayOfPrayer.org.

With our People

- Karen Crowder had cataract surgery last Tuesday. Went well.

- LeeAnn Crosslin had surgery on her arm Friday morning. Did fine, came home same day.

- Karen Aigner’s brother’s Funeral Home, Matthew’s in Columbia, TN, burned down last week. No one was hurt but it is a great loss.

- Katie Dickson, a student at Tennessee Tech University, is national vice president for Delta Tau Alpha, which is the national honors ag society. As a member of this organization she is in the top 20% of TTU according to GPA and number of hours taken. She recently just got elected as an agriculture ambassador at TTU and hold office for 4-H, FFA, Block and Bridle, ag council, ag business, Lambda Alpha Sigma, and Kappa Delta. Wow! She is busy.

- Thanks to Jimmy Reynolds for representing our church at the Spring Meeting of Presbytery held in Cowan, Tennessee Thursday of this week.

SUNDAYS IN MAY

Sunday, 6^th – Holy Communion

Sunday 13^th, Mother’s Day. The men of the church, headed by Bobby Thompson, will prepare breakfast to honor our mothers. The entire church is invited to come. 9:00 AM. No Sunday School.

Sunday 20th – Senior Day. According to my records Sean Haynes is our only high school graduate this year. If there are others, let me know.

Sunday 27^th – Adam Johnathan Groves, son of Brittany Brown, and grandson of Bill and Kelly Brown, will be baptized. It is also Pentecost Sunday.

——–

Murfreesboro Presbytery Cumberland Presbyterian Women are meeting at the Murfreesboro Church tomorrow, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. This is for representatives from each of the 40 something churches in this area. At the present time we do not have a CPW at New Hope. A few Sundays ago several women from the presbyterial organization attended our church to encourage us to have a women’s group. Joyce is interested in this and plans to attend tomorrow’s meeting.

———-

Sunday is almost here. I can hardly wait. Hope to see each one of you then.

Pastor b

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

April 20, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

My Mama

When I was a kid nothing much kept us from showing up for anything that was going on at our church. I remember that when something unexpected came up at home and it was going to be difficult for us to go to church, and we were considering not going, Mama would say, “But there’s such a few of us…..” That usually decided it. We went. She didn’t want those who were there to be embarrassed by how many weren’t there. True, it was a small church, smaller than ours, and every absentee was greatly missed.

But that concern mom had registered with me and has gone with me the rest of my life. When people commit to a body of believers, we have an obligation to support each other. We feel bad if we let someone down. We think of the person who spent lots of time preparing a lesson or a ministry and many of those he/she expected didn’t show up. It takes a little of the energy and enthusiam away from him. He is going to be less likely to take on an assignment next time around. When such disappointments occur regularly in a body of believers, there is a drain on spirit and energy that is hard to overcome. I have seen youth leaders enter a job with lots of energy and enthusiasm, and people don’t show up, and little by little they have lost their “fire”. I have seen Sunday School teachers, committee chairpeople, ministry leaders, have the same experience.

Early on in my preaching career I preached a revival for Klahr Rainey at First CP Church in Dallas. Klar closed every service with, “Lord keep us faithful to You and to each other.” He was a seasoned pastor and he knew how the church is affected when people let each other down in the work of the Lord.

Mama, you were right. It would have to be awfully bad for us to miss church. We didn’t want to let others down. Let that spirit be for New Hope. We want to encourage each other in the work of the Lord. We want to build up spirit, enthusiasm, and motivation. When we see a little fire burning in the heart of someone else, we want to fan it, not snuff it out. We need to stir each other up to good works.

CHURCH BULLETIN BLOOPERS
Child care provided with reservations.
My joke is easy and my burden is light.
I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirty and you gave me drink
Please welcome Pastor Don, a caring individual who loves hurting people.
Overeaters Anonymous meeting will be held at 8 pm in the large room.
A worm welcome to all who have come today.
Women’s Luncheon: Each member bring a sandwich. Polly Phillips will give the medication.
If you choose to heave during the Postlude, please do so quietly.
Sign-up sheet for anyone wishing to be baptized on the table in the foyer.
Newsletters are not being sent to absentees because of their weight

My best blup was many years ago when I put in our newsletter

“We are looking for someone to lead the sinning for our revival” I had 200 applications. What a difference an “n” instead of a “g” makes

————

Attached is an update on the old word document Directory – the first since July of last year. Please make additions and changes in your listing via my e-mail, mail, or write on attendance register this Sunday. We will have a more complete directory later.

My Family

My daughter Pam, her husband Wendell, and their grown son, Todd, are taking off tomorrow to South Africa, to visit their daughter and sister, Whitney, who is working on an advanced degree in Cape Town. Whitney seems to have a passion for needy people, especially children, in Africa. She is a beautiful and well put together 28 year old young lady. She grew up with more than enough of this worlds goods, yet she seems not to be focused on money. She has pursued several ministries and research and extra schooling adventures with little or no pay in between semesters in college, and jobs in DC, to make enough money to support herself. She loves family, and maintains many wholesome friendships from many parts of the world. Todd is two years out of college with a degree in mechanical enginering, and a good job in his field in Nashville. A few months ago he decided it was time to move away from home, and he and two other guys rented a house together. He and his parents brought us supper the other night to visit with us and relieve Joyce from cooking (we ate several other meals with the leftovers).

Tim’s son, John-Michael, will be 20 years old tomorrow. He is a fine young man and is working toward his college degree at UT Knoxville. My youngest son, Steve, has never married, and has struggled with medical problems most of his adult life. He called yesterday just thrilled to death with his new job. He seems happy.

Suffer me to tell you about my children and grandchildren. It is good to have a nice church like ours to be a part of. It is even more wonderful to have kids and grandkids to love and to be loved by.

Most of all, my wonderful wife, Joyce, who is my ideal companion in this my final leg in life’s journey. Life is good.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER

Don Reeves in his “Letters to the Lord” weekly column for the Scottsboro, Al. newspaper, often refers to some lesson he remembers from his Sunday School teacher in a CP church in the tiny town of Troy, Tennessee, during his growing up years. It is amazing that this Pastor/College Teacher who is now in his 70’s remembers good lessons from his Sunday School teacher of long ago. They are often one sentence gems of wisdom for living. They are a part of what has shaped his very productive life.

As I thought about that a fews days ago I wondered why more people are not standing in line to teach children in Sunday School. If one wants to have a meaningful life, one that will bless people for all their lives, and beyond their own life, then there are few things one can do to better fulfill that than teaching children in Sunday School. I have read other stories of similar intent.

One is about Dwight L. Moody, one of the great evangelists of a century or so ago who was led to Christ by his Sunday School teacher. Once the child, Moody, had moved far across the city and stopped coming to Sunday School. This Sunday School teacher missed him, and went to great efforts to cross the city, look up the child, re-establish contact with him, and eventually lead him to the Lord.

My Papa was also my boyhood Sunday School teacher. Since those boyhood days I have been blessed by many great teachers. But none of them taught me as much about the Bible and how it applies, as did my father, although he had only a 7^th grade education.

No greater opportunity to make a difference than teaching a child in Sunday School.

(By the way, those who don’t know it, Don Reeves once pastored New Hope Church, while he was in seminary at Vandy. He is my good friend from way back.)

——–

Do you know who we are at New Hope Church? We are the Family of God. I’m honored to serve with you in God’s household. Pastor B.

Update on Raymond Bay (part of an e-mail I just received from Mary Lou)

Raymond is having a better day today. However, we have had a busy week with doctors’ visits and etc. During a doctor’s office visit they found his heartbeat was extremely low and sent him to ER for tests. Was there most of the day Wednesday. They did various tests in regard to his heart and also to his reflux problem. No sign of a heart attack but is wearing a heart monitor today. Hopefully he will be up to normal in the next few days. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. Mary Lou

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. VERNON BURROW

April 13, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

WELCOME TO MEMBERSHIP MARY BROWN

Mary Brown has been a regular participant in our church for some time now. She came forward last Sunday to move her membership from another fine church in our area. Her listing for the directory is: Mary Brown, 6010 Bluewater, Lebanon 37087. Birthday (8.5). She lives under the same roof with her sister, Nancy Cotrell, and Nancy’s husband Reen Cottrell, and their two childrren, Casie Cottrell and Cole Cottrell. Their home phone is 449-5183. We have Mary’s permission to include her cell phone 474-8379. Casie comes to Sunday School and Worship most Sundays, and Reen, Nancy, and Cole come some of the time. Shared E-mail: nancyrmoss@aol.com.

MY THANKS TO EACH OF YOU FOR MAKING THE PAST WEEK END THE BEST EASTER EVER

The 155 in worship on Sunday was the largest in recent memory.

The Tenebrea service, which many say is the most meaningful service of the year, had a special impact this year, due to the outstanding job all of the leaders did.

The Easter Egg Hunt was more than a church easter egg hunt – it was an activity we sponsored for the entire community. Many people from our geographic area who don’t come to our church brought their children and there was a sense of “community” It was a celebration day. No count was taken, but I would guess somewhere in the neighborhood of 150 people attended. Many of you worked especialy hard and long hours to make this happen. Our special thanks to our across the street neighbors, Brian and Brandy Tomlison, for allowing us to use their huge front yard for the hunt. And to our own Scott and Rachael for use of their front yard and entrance, and to Scott for getting the county sherriff’s office to furnishing two cars, and another volunteer officer to work with Sccott, for making safe crossing of Coles Ferry Rd. from the church grounds to the “hunting” grounds. Well, I could go on and on thanking people. Like Brads extended family coming and working, Judy Fields bringing her horses, Robbie Haynes for getting the inflatable outfit which gave the children great joy.

Then Easter Sunday. You invited guests from near and far. You brought food for the breakfast. The greeters and the ushers did an outstanding job, and I have heard many comments from our guests about how much they felt welcomed and at home. The adult, children, and youth choirs. Those ladies who took care of around 15 small children, and for those who helped Brad in children’s church, which included about 30 kids. It seems to me that we had a record number of lilies. The old rugged cross provided by Michael King, that served us well at Tenebrae, and then was transformed with flowers and clothes to represent resurrection on Sunday. Wow! What a day. Thank you.

With Our People

Joyce Burrow has to go through another of those awful test next Monday. The iron IV’s have her blood count back up and she feels much better, but we still have to find out where the blood is coming from, and what is making her so short of breath.
Wayne Horton passed from this life Thursday afternoon. His body took a beating before it was left behind when his spirit ascended to heaven. I could read his lips Wednesday when he smiled and said, “I am ready to go”, and pointed toward heaven. Here is his obituary from the funeral home. “Wayne Horton passed away on April 12, 2012 at age 58. The family will be receiving friends at Sellars Funeral Home in Lebanon from 4-8 p.m. on Saturday and from 1 p.m. until the service on Sunday. The chapel service, conducted by Pastor Vernon Burrow, is 4 p.m. Sunday, April 15, 2012. Interment in Wilson County Memorial Gardens. Family will serve as Pallbearers.
Survivors include son Johnathan Dwayne (Summer) Horton; mother: Pauline Horton; siblings Brenda (Hale) Moss, Lisa (Jeff) Dickson, Darlene (Andy) Garrett, and Jerry Horton; grandchildren: Owen Horton and Macy Horton; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by father John Horton Jr., brother Jimmy Horton Sr., and uncle Oliver Pirtle.”

WEDNESDAY EVENING SMALL GROUPS – MAKE THE ENDING GOOD

We have two more Wednesdays, the 18^th and the 25^th, to complete our Spring Series of small groups that meet Wednesday evenings while the youth are having their weekly worship. The attendance was in the 40’s the first several weeks. Then came spring break in public schools followed by a lot of extra services and activities connected with Easter, and the past weeks the groups have been poorly attended.

Now, I am asking you to make a special effort to attend these last two meetings. Let’s end with a bang. Even if you didn’t join a group at the beginning the first part of February, the last two Wednesday studies and activities can stand on their own and you will get good out of them.

Small groups are one of our program waves of the future. They are the place where you get an enhanced sense of belonging, where you get to know each other better, where you learn through practice of accountability, where you find a sense of “place” in the fellowship, where you grow in grace in a community of Grace.

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Church, insisted that all members of his church be a part of a small group. He referred to his small groups as “watching over one another in love”. Without those small groups the Methodist Church would not be what it is today. Every church I know that is growing and doing well has a strong program of small groups.

So come, and get a taste these last two Wednesday nights. 6:00 to 7:00 at the church. A light supper is served at 5:30.

We hope to have a small group program this Fall. We need your encouragement.

SESSION NOTES (April 10, 2012)

- Prayers for members with special needs

- Commended very good turnout for work day at the church

- Reviewed the activities surrounding Easter. Noted the many good things, appreciations, and notes for improving next year’s Easter activities.

- Encouraged a higher percentage of members who feel a sense of responsibility for the activies planned for the church, and support for each other in the various ministries

- Referred the lighting for the sign back to the sign committee to make some additional detailed plans

- Elected Jimmy Reynolds to represent our church at the meeting of Presbytery April 26 at Cowan, TN

- Placed the name of new member Mary Brown on the church roll.

- Credit cards given to church staff members, with the understanding that pastor will review all monthly expenditures and place them in proper budget category before giving them to the treasurer for payment. Others spending money for church purposes should turn in the bill(s) to the treasurer along with a form stating what they are used for, for either payment or re-inbursement.

- Treasurer’s report for month of March presented and accepted. Copies are available upon request.

- Still working to select a church van.

- Property Ministry Team is getting bids for sealing and striping the parking lot.

Pray for the preaching of the Word this Sunday…..Eph. 5:1-20 “Maturity in Love and Worship”

Pastor B.

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

VERNON BURROW

April 5, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

Short note. It is 3:10 PM Thursday and I want to get this in the mail by 5:00 today so that everyone is reminded about the three windows of oppertunity to honor God during the forty one hours from 7:30 PM Friday until 11:15 AM on Sunday

GOOD FRIDAY

Here is what was sent to the newspapers: New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church offers a “Service of Tenebrae” on Good Friday, April 6, beginning at Sundown7:30 PM. This service originated in the early years of the Christian Church. Its purpose is to re-create the emotional aspect of the passion story. Readings from the gospel will recount the events that led to the crucifixion. Hymns and special music will be in keeping with the growing sadness as the tide of public opinion turned against Jesus. The lights will gradually be lowered until there is complete darkness and we remember His dying for us. A special “rugged cross” has been erected for this service, and there will be a time during the service for “nailing” our sins and sorrows and burdens to the cross. After the darkness, Holy Communion will be observed, and is open to all Christians. The service will be led by Pastor Vernon Burrow. The music director is Ben Spicer. A nursery will be provided for small children. The church is located at 7845 Coles Ferry Pike, Lebanon, TN.

The old rugged cross has been erected for the sanctuary again by Michael King. Karen Aigner will join Ben this year in providing special music. I will finish the order of worship later this evening and will e-mail to those of you who have special responsibilities in the service.

NEW HOPE’S GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY SATURDAY EASTER EGG HUNT

Here is what was sent to the Newspapers:

NEW HOPE/OKLAND COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT SATURDAY @ 12 NOON

Children Ages 1-ll are invited to New Hope/Oakland Community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 7 @ 12 Noon. The hunt is sponsored by the New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church and will be held across the street from the church located at 7845 Coles Ferry Pike. There will be inflatable’s, Bunny face Painting, Horseback rides, Hot Dogs, Popcorn, and drinks. Prizes will include two $50 eggs and two $20 eggs. For more information go to www.newhopecpchurch.com

Many people have been enlisted to do special things. There will be a place of service for everyone who is a part of the New Hope Church in offering this size egg hunt for the community. So come on to help with the set up before, and the clean up afterwards. Be on hand to welcome our guests from the community, as well as to share in the joys of our own children.

SUNDAY BIGGESTS EASTER EVER

Here is what was sent to the Newspapers:

Pastor Vernon Burrow will preach on “When Death Lost Its Sting” at the New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church this Sunday. The Message is based on I Corinthians 15:55, “O Death, where is thy sting”. The children choir and the youth choir will sing. Children’s Church for those 3 years old through the 6^th grade will be conducted by Youth Pastor, Bran Unland. Nursery will be provided for children under three years old during worship. Worship begins at 10:00 AM. Guests are invited to join us for a continental breakfast between 9:15 and 9:55 AM.

Since we are going to need many of us to carry out a worship service that will honor God by putting on the best service we can possibly put on, and to make all our guests to feel perfectly at home, (con’t next page)

The service of preparation 8:30 – 9:15 will be for our workers at the big service and anyone else whose schedule will not fit for the 10:00 AM Service. The service will include the Easter Sermon, plus a song or two, and a time for prayer for the big service to follow.

A continental Easter breakfast will be offered from 8:00 until 8:30, and again from 9:15 – 9:55. Bring foods for whichever time you can. Bring food to the fellowship hall. These are times for Easter fellowship among ourselves and our guests.

With Our People

Connie Spears is home from surgery. Her body is cancer free.
Wayne Horton made it through a long, long surgery at Vanderbilt, and is in surgerical ICU, rm. 9657. I visited again with him this afternoon. He greeted me with a big smile, writing to me “I didn’t expect to be here today”. The surgery was that serious.
Joyce Burrow had a colonoscopy this morning. Thank God, there was no sign of cancer. The doctors have new options for treatment that will help her get well.

Looking forward to a great week-end.

Pastor B.

PASTOR NOTES…

NEW HOPE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH…

VERNON BURROW

March 30, 2012

Church web: www.newhopecpchurch.com Pastor e-mail: vernonburrow@comcast.net

HOLY WEEK:

- Christ was welcomed – Palm Sunday

- Christ was crucified – Good Friday

- Christ Arose! – Easter

PALM SUNDAY/PASSION SUNDAY – April 1

- Sunday School at 9:00, as usual, teachers arrive at 8:45

- Worship

Children will lead in the “Waving of the Palms” at the beginng of the service, followed by their moving to the office complex for children’s church
Choir will provide special music
Pick up extra “calling cards” to use in inviting people to Easter Worship
Sermon: “Dying to Live” based on Eph. 4:17-32, esp. vs. 22 “…put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;” + vs. 24 “and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Also, John 12:23-24 “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me…”
This service will include Holy Communion

Wednesday evening – April 4

Youth worship and small groups beginning 6:00 PM, preceeded by light meal at 5:30

Friday April 6:

Tenebrae – the service of darkness – at Sundown (7:30 PM)

- 7:00 – Those who have leadership roles in this service arrive at church for instruction

- 7:15 – Everything is in order so there is no last minute hurry as people are coming in and finding their seats

- 7:30 - Tenebrae service of “darkness” begins. Sanctuary as “bare” as can be. Serious content here. The gospel lessons are from Matthew this year – his version of the events leading up to the death of Jesus. Included will be the ceremony of “nailing to the cross” burdens, sin, guilt, pain, or anything else that needs to be left at the cross, notes to be burned after the service. It is an atmosphere where we may for a little bit feel some of the pain of Jesus. Holy Communion will be observed near the end. After the service a burning of the sheets that name the toxic stuff we need to get out of our system and leave them there. This service is part one of a two part worship service. Tenebrae is centered in the crucifixion, Easter is centered on the Resurrection – they belong together. You can’t have one without the other.

Saturday April 7

New Hope/Oakland Community Easter Egg Hunt

Who: Sponsored by New Hope Church

What: Community Easter Egg Hunt for Ages 1-11

When: Saturday April 7th @ 12:00 pm

Where: Coles Ferry Pike across from New Hope Church

Prizes: two $50 eggs and two $20 eggs with much, much more -

Inflatables, Bunny face Painting, Hot Dogs, Popcorn, and drinks.

For more information go to www.newhopecpchurch.com

How you can help. This is not the usual church Easter Egg Hunt. We are doing this for the community. It will be big. We need lots of help.

Check with Lee Ann Crosslin for the Easter Egg Hunt itself. Lee Ann asks everyone who can to bring to church this Sunday: Candy-Filled Eggs, or Individually wrapped candy to use in the Easter Egg Hunt.
Check with Brad Unland for crowd management, banners, food, etc.
Check with Robbie Haynes for inflatable’s, etc.

Easter Day April 8

10:00 AM – The great service. This is the service with all the bells and whistles. Procession of the lilies and flowers on cross, re-appointing of the chancel (from Good Friday bareness, etc.) It will take a lot of people to put this one on — greeters, people arranging for the grand entry of the lilies, refurbishing the sanctuary, nursery, parking lot attendants. Our regular workers will be doing this for others. The great service is the best time to bring your guests.
Early Service 8:30. 45 minutes. The same sermon as at 10 o’clock, but not all of the other elements of worship. This service is designed primarily for those who will be working at the 10 O’clock service, so they may have an Easter worship experience and will be free to concentrate on helping our guests in the full length service. Of course, any can choose this service if they like. Or, if you can’t make the “great service”, come to the 8:30 service.
8:00 – 8:30 and 9:15 – 9:45 – A time of fellowship in the fellowship hall and/or the narthex with light breakfast foods. You may bring foods at 8:00 or 9:15.

Remember about these Holy Week services and activities: We are not attending a service someone else is putting on. We are putting on a service that will be very meaningful for our guests. Think first about them, and the whole experience will seem better for ourselves. We need the help and support of all the members of this congregation.

With Our People

· Connie Spears will have surgery on Monday, April 2
· Wayne Horton will have surgery on Wednesday, April 4
· Joyce Burrow will have more tests on Thursday, April 5.

ANNOUNING MISSSION WORK TRIPS TO THE PHILLIPINES AND GUATEMALA

My good friend and veteran leader of many mission work trips, Sam Suddarth, has sent out the following email:

“I have dates for the Philippines!! October 16-30, 2012 is the window. Missionary Daniel Jang will welcome us there!!

The project is to help close in their church building, which now is not much more than a lean-to.

Please pray that God will provide affordable airfare and those He calls will accept His calling.

Today, the airfare is $1610. It is 30 hrs. to get there and 30 hrs back, unless we find another route and fare, so pray pray pray pray pray!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have a couple of people already interested, a group of 10 would be FANTASTIC!!!

I am also working on Guatemala, to work at a clinic, a medical team is needed and the clinic needs painting. Again PRAY!

yiC Sam”

If you might be interested in either of these two mission work trips, Sam’s email address is: 4him@thegraceteam.org

May God richly bless you, John Lovelace

We are entering the: the “big” week of the year. Join me in praying that Jesus Christ will be glorified. Pastor B.

EASTER LILY ORDER FORM

Name: _____________________________________Phone _____________________________

Number of Lilies___________ @ $8.00 each = $____________________

In (memory/honor) of: ____________________________________

(circle one)

In (memory/honor of: ___________________________________

Place this form and payment in offering plate this Sunday

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