Father-Daughter Dance this Sunday
Our favorite annual tradition is back! The Father-Daughter Dance is this Sunday, Feb. 2, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This is for fathers, grandfathers, uncles, etc., and daughters of all ages. To make sure that we have everything we need, click the button below to RSVP.
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"The Enneagram, Love, & Relationships" is next Wednesday
Woodmont is hosting a special Valentine’s event featuring Hunter Mobley as we ask the question, "How can the Enneagram enhance our love maps?" on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 6:15 PM in Carpenter Chapel with dinner beforehand at 5:30 PM.
If you're planning to attend, click the button below to RSVP!
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Last chance to submit nominations
We are wrapping up our leadership nomination process this week. If you haven't already, submit your nominations now! Click the button below or email yours to amber@woodmontcc.org.
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Busyness Stifles Spiritual Growth
by Clay Stauffer
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Many of us have been reading and studying John Mark Comer’s book Practicing the Way to go along with our current sermon series. In the book, Comer says, “The call to apprentice under Jesus is not a call to do more but to do less. It’s not addition but subtraction.” Many people have a hard time with this concept. Comer later continues, “The elephant in the room is that the vast majority of us have far too much going on to ‘add’ Jesus into our overly busy schedules” (pg. 60). Comer makes the case that if you want to go deeper in your faith, you will have to carve out the time to do it.
We live in a culture that rewards busyness, multi-tasking, production, accomplishment, and getting things done. Many times, when we ask somebody how they are doing, we hear a common refrain – “I’m so busy, just running around like crazy.” Is this a good thing?
Busyness is not compatible with spiritual growth and deeper reflection. In American culture, we laud achievement and accomplishment while frowning upon laziness and complacency. Most people who achieve success tend to have a hard work ethic and a proactive personality that takes initiative. Every person has a different capacity.
Presbyterian pastor and author Eugene Peterson articulates it this way in his memoir: “The cultural conditions in which I am immersed require a kind of fierce vigilance to guard my vocation from these cultural pollutants so dangerously toxic to persons who want to follow Jesus in the way that he is Jesus. I wanted my life, both my personal and working life, to be shaped by God and the scripture and prayer.”
George Buttrick taught at both Harvard and Vanderbilt Divinity Schools and was the pastor of Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City. Buttrick intentionally reserved his mornings for study, prayer, and sermon preparation. He would only take meetings and appointments in the afternoon. He maintained this schedule over the course of many decades. He knew the importance of setting clear boundaries.
Many in our culture will say they want to grow spiritually and in their faith, but if their weekly or daily schedule is closely analyzed, no time is reserved for this to happen. One activity leads to another and then to another. Some have a hard time saying no because they are people pleasers. Yes, Americans are a busy people, but what are we busy doing? Many of the things that zap our time are not as important as we think.
Leadership expert Ron Heifetz talks about the importance of finding “sanctuary,” which he describes as “the mental or physical haven to which one can intentionally retreat to create space for reflection and renewal.” Sanctuary allows us to take a step back from our specific context to do self-care and to assess our own physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual state. Unfortunately, many in our culture do not have a place or method of finding sanctuary. Many turn to alcohol, drugs, shopping, and social media to cope with the stress of a busy life. This is not the same as taking time to grow and mature.
Intentional time must be set aside for prayer, stillness, study, and reflection. Busyness is what we know and often what we resort back to. Meanwhile, our spiritual lives suffer and we stay exhausted. Comer says, “Many of us are operating at a dangerous level of tired.” Guarding time to be still and quiet on a daily basis is healthy and will enable us to live meaningful and more balanced lives.
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"Living Generously, Selflessly, Authentically" this Sunday, Feb. 2
Clay Stauffer • Matthew 6:19-24 & I Timothy 6:6-10 • "The Life-Changing Way of Jesus” series
Our schedule this Sunday is:
- 8:30 AM – Continental breakfast in the gym
- 9:30 AM – Informal service in the sanctuary
- 9:40 AM – The Bridge service in the chapel
- 11:00 AM – Traditional service in the sanctuary
- 4:00 PM – Father-Daughter Dance in the gym
No youth activities on campus this Sunday due to the youth ski trip
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Woodmont Lenten trip to Montgomery legacy sites April 5-6
As part of Woodmont's upcoming Lenten class series, the newly formed Prison Ministry and Woodmont's Racial Bridges Ministry are co-hosting a unique overnight reflection trip to Montgomery Alabama on April 5 & 6 to tour the Legacy Museum, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park.
Collectively known as the "legacy sites," these artistic experiences tell the 400-year story of America's unique and tragic history with race also highlighting the intersection of race and incarceration. The critically acclaimed Legacy Museum features first-hand historical accounts, interactive content, cutting-edge technology, and a world-class art gallery.
The group will be leaving Nashville by chartered transportation at 7:00 AM on Saturday, April 5, and returning late evening on Sunday, April 6.
Hotel room costs are expected to be in the $200 range, plus meals and transportation. More details regarding the schedule and costs will become available once the group knows the number of participants. Scholarships are available.
Questions? Contact Rhonda Philippi at rhonda.g.phillippi@gmail.com
To indicate interest or request more information, click the button below!
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Presentation on health maintenance at CWF Feb. 4
Our next CWF (Christian Women's Fellowship) meeting will feature a presentation on health maintenance by Dr. Porter Meadors on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 11:00 AM in Carpenter Chapel. RSVP for lunch by calling the church office at (615) 297-8563.
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Connection Fair & Superhero Sunday
Sunday, Jan. 26 • Photos by Erin Douglas
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I don’t know when I’ve ever felt more joy than I did on Saturday, January 18th when Anne Mitchell helped me throw a 100th birthday party for Pat Nichols. Looking at the unparalleled joy on Pat’s face when she entered the board room and found about 40 people singing “Happy Birthday” is something I’ll never forget.
I’d been telling Pat for several years now that I was counting on her to be the first church member (and Sunday School class member) I’ve ever had who reached 100. She kept saying she doubted she would be. And, to be honest, before Christmas, she wasn’t feeling that well and when I said, “The big celebration is getting closer,” she said, “I don’t want to live that long.” That she wasn’t feeling so good became clear when she went into the hospital over Christmas with double pneumonia. But after Christmas, as she was recovering at Woodcrest and feeling better with a good physical therapist, she had that sparkle back in her eyes and I could tell she was excited about her birthday.
Originally, I had been talking with Pat’s daughter Janet about a small celebration that wouldn’t last very long so we didn’t wear her out. Maybe a half dozen people, balloons, birthday cake, and singing “Happy Birthday.” But as the date grew closer, word spread. Other members from her Sunday School class, her CWF circle, and the Visitation Committee who had been visiting Pat regularly, and Pat’s family members from across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama said they wanted to come.
Woodcrest wanted to discharge Pat on her birthday, but she said, “Oh, no. I need to go home the day before so Janet can wash and cut my hair and help me get ready for the party!” So she went home the day before.
At the party I asked Pat three questions:
#1 – Is there a secret to your longevity?
Pat said: “Marry the right person.”
#2 – What is life all about?
She talked about life’s ups and downs but what gets you through is your faith, family, and friends. That was obvious as her party was at her church and the room was filled with family and friends. And it’s been her family, specifically her daughter Janet, who has taken such good care of her that has helped her reach this milestone.
#3 – What’s been the best part of the past century?
Pat said: "Having a place you call home, and having babies."
Then we had a prayer giving thanks for her wonderful life and praying for her continued health, cut the birthday cake, and said we all looked forward to 101.
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Watch Woodmont members sing "Happy Birthday" to Pat on Saturday, Jan. 18 | |
HERO winter food drive wraps this Sunday
Let's make the winter a little warmer for Metro students by filling the HERO pantry!
The HERO Program supports MNPS students who lack an adequate, regular, nighttime residence, providing basic necessities to ensure school readiness. The HERO Pantry provides food to students and families on a short-term, emergency basis. Primary food pantry clients are students living without kitchen access, and the list and Amazon shopping link below reflect these microwave-friendly choices.
Do you like to shop? You can purchase items from this list and bring them to Denise Sesler in the Gathering Hall between the 9:30 and 11:00 services on Jan. 26 and Feb. 2. Do you like to shop online? You can visit https://a.co/eFe0kE6 to purchase items and have them shipped directly to the HERO Pantry! Our goal is to have all purchased items delivered to HERO on or before Feb. 7. LET'S DO THIS WOODMONT!
Questions? Contact Denise Sesler at denisesesler@comcast.net or 615-480-9085.
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Karen Allemang at Woodmont
Karen Allemang, Development Director for Unbound, was our "superhero for the day" this past Sunday as she shared the impact that Woodmont is making in Guatemala by sponsoring children, building homes, and providing financial support.
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Attend The Mountaintop Feb. 22
Woodmont's Racial Bridges Ministry invites you to a performance of The Mountaintop at TPAC Andrew Johnson Theater. The play is “a gripping re-imagination of what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night on earth could have been.”
The play runs from Feb. 14 to Feb. 22 and our group will attend the matinee performance on Sat., Feb. 22. The ministry will also host a presentation and discussion about the play and playwright on Monday, Feb. 10, open to all.
Contact Karen Woolridge karenwoolridgewwc@gmail.com or Bob Faricy faricy@comcast.net if interested.
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Enneagram workshop with Suzanne Stabile & Hunter Mobley Feb. 28 - March 1 | Join us for a unique and immersive workshop that blends the ancient wisdom of the Enneagram with contemporary contemplative practices. What tools do we have on board for healing? Healing physically? Healing spiritually? This experiential journey will guide you to a deeper understanding of your personality type, its strengths, and its potential challenges. Click the button below to check out all the details and register! | | | |
Peace, Presence, & Grace retreat Feb. 28 - March 2
Give yourself the gift of a time away to reconnect with God, the source of peace, presence, and grace in our lives. Join Beth Pattillo and Sandy Smith at the beautiful St. Mary’s Retreat Center in Sewanee, TN for a weekend of reflection and renewal. The group's time together begins with dinner on Friday, Feb. 28, and concludes with morning worship on Sunday, March 2. Registration fee includes housing, meals, and facilitation for the weekend. The spring 2024 retreat filled up quickly, so register now!
Click here to register today!
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Quick financial summary
July 2024 to December 2024
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Thank you, Woodmont!
Dear Woodmont Elders, Women’s Prayer Group, staff, and friends,
Thank you so very much for the cards, calls, prayers, and overall support you provided me and Christy while we grieved my mother’s passing. It was a challenging time, but with your love and support, we had a wonderful anchor and church home to lean upon. The last few years have been difficult, but I’m thankful I was able to spend quality time with both my dad and mom during their final years and indeed their final days. I feel blessed their last moments were peaceful and with family. Thank you all for your kindness and compassion.
God bless,
-Wendell & Christy Brown
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Calendar
Sunday, Feb. 2
Youth Ski Trip
9:00 AM Grace Notes Rehearsal, Kids' Commons
9:30 AM 21st Century Class, Boardroom
9:30 AM Disciples Class, Room 105
10:45 AM The Life Class, Bay Room
10:45 AM Reflections Class, Room 200
10:45 AM Connection Class, Room 232
11:00 AM Points of View Class, Room 105
3:00 PM Pickleball, Drowota Hall
4:00 PM Father-Daughter Dance, Drowota Hall
Monday, Feb. 3
3:00 PM "Geezers" Group, Boardroom
6:30 PM Leadership Woodmont, Campbell West
Tuesday, Feb. 4
10:00 AM CWF Board Meeting, Room 200
11:00 AM CWF General Meeting, Carpenter Chapel
12:00 PM CWF Luncheon, Drowota Hall
6:30 PM Alateen (ages 12-19), South Hall
6:30 PM Parents Al-Anon Group, Room 105
8:00 PM AA Meeting, South Hall
Wednesday, Feb. 5
6:00 AM Roy Stauffer’s Men’s Group, Room 105
7:00 AM Clay Stauffer’s Men’s Group, Boardroom
8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study, Room 105
5:30 PM Fellowship Dinner, Drowota Hall
6:00 PM GriefShare, Campbell West
6:00 PM DivorceCare, The Bary Room
6:15 PM Hunter Mobley "Enneagram, Love, & Relationships," Carpenter Chapel
6:15 PM Disciples Women's Bible Study, Room 200
6:30 PM Choir Rehearsal, Sanctuary
Thursday, Feb. 6
10:00 AM Sit & Stitch, Gathering Hall
10:30 AM Journey to the Heart Women's Bible Study, Boardroom
1:00 PM Mahjong Group, Gathering Hall
5:30 PM Handbells Rehearsal, Choir Room
6:30 PM Andra Moran Virtual Vespers, Zoom
6:30 PM Nar-Anon, Room 105
8:00 PM AA Meeting, South Hall
Friday, Feb. 7
Room In The Inn
3:00 PM Pickleball, Drowota Hall
Saturday, Feb. 8
Room In The Inn
10:00 AM Al-Anon, Drowota Hall
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Prayers for our church family |
SYMPATHY TO:
- Bob & Jeanne Partridge on the death of Bob’s brother, Dick Partridge, on Jan. 23
- The family of Joe H. Bandy, Jr., who died on Jan. 24. Service is Friday, Feb. 21, at Mt. Olivet Funeral Home and Cemetery with visitation at 1:00 PM, service at 2:00 PM, and interment at 3 PM.
- Mart Sesler on the death of his stepfather, Edward Moore, on Jan. 27
IN THE HOSPITAL:
- Sarah Rollins (10-year-old daughter of Clark & Lyndsey Rollins) - hip surgery Jan. 28
- Walter White
- Peggy Bruce
CONCERNS:
- Becky Griffith
- Wilbur Sensing
- Luann Brent
- Connie Schmutz
- Roland Reed - automobile accident
- Tom Reidy - hip replacement
- Rosemary Weldon
- Mike Murphy
- Rick Clark
CONTINUING PRAYERS FOR:
- John Carpenter
- Mary Cummins
- R.W. Groom
- Emily Bond Leaman
- Cass Meeks
- Lee Moss
- Kris Stewart
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Jan. 5: $314,732
Jan. 12: $23,370
Jan. 19: $65,822
Jan. 26: $80,953
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Growing disciples of Christ by seeking God, sharing love, and serving others. | | | | |