Today, I was afforded the rare opportunity to address the Oak Ridge District Ministers meeting of the United Methodist Church. The topic was domestic violence.
I only noticed two pastors leave before my talk. Considering the tight schedules that some pastors keep I think that' s an accomplishment.
Several pastors told me that they looked forward to hearing my talk about domestic violence. This was before the meeting.
Once upon a time, pastors and domestic violence did not go together. Thankfully, times are changing. This wonderful group of ministers is proof of that.
May God grant them open ears, open hearts and open minds as they minister to victims within their congregations. May He also bring healing and health to the families that are locked in the viciousness of domestic violence.
Showing posts with label Baileyton United Methodist Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baileyton United Methodist Church. Show all posts
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Friday, April 25, 2008
Baileyton UMC Comes Through Again!
When the folks at Baileyton UMC make a commitment to help they go beyond the extra mile! Today they arrived with two truck loads full of clothing, accessories, household items and more. They had a yard sale fundraiser. Some things didn't sell. Those items that did not were loaded up and delivered to us.
We, and our clients, appreciate their generosity.
Again, we couldn't do it without you.
Our hats are off to Baileyton UMC and to all the people there!
We, and our clients, appreciate their generosity.
Again, we couldn't do it without you.
Our hats are off to Baileyton UMC and to all the people there!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Baileyton United Methodist Church Burns; Hope Rises from Ashes
At Baileyton United Methodist Church in Greene County, Tennessee the physical reminder of 100 years of memories was wiped away in a matter of moments. The fire that destroyed the church's main sanctuary is said by a WBIR news report to have been started by a bad furnace.
Many of you will recall that just a short time ago I posted a happier message about Baileyton United Methodist. They were kind enough to hold a clothing drive to help us here at Hope for Healing.Org. We remain grateful for their help.
When we drove to pick up the clothes I couldn't help but be impressed by the loving care the members had taken to preserve the century old building.
Sitting in a historic rural area Baileyton UMC serves as reminder of an era where little white churches dotted postcard perfect landscapes. The landscaped grounds around the little white church were well tended. An inviting picnic area sat off to the side of the driveway next to a children's play area. Although unused at that moment, you could imagine little voices calling out to each other in child's play. In the distance, East Tennessee's Appalachian mountains added poetic splendor on that sunny autum day. All around you God's handiwork beckoned you to sit aside your worries and embrace the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Now, little remains of this little spot of tranquility except a pile of rubble.
Or does it?
Through the faith of the members of Baileyton UMC we are reminded that The Church is more than a building. A church is strenth, compassion and a love for God that is carried through the hearts and minds of its members. It is a mirror that reflects to the world the love of Christ. You can never contain that in building nor destroy it by fire.
As we pray for the members of Baileyton United Methodist Church let us also remember to rejoice for the foundation of faith that will allow them to rebuild and reach out to the world for another 100 years and beyond.
Many of you will recall that just a short time ago I posted a happier message about Baileyton United Methodist. They were kind enough to hold a clothing drive to help us here at Hope for Healing.Org. We remain grateful for their help.
When we drove to pick up the clothes I couldn't help but be impressed by the loving care the members had taken to preserve the century old building.
Sitting in a historic rural area Baileyton UMC serves as reminder of an era where little white churches dotted postcard perfect landscapes. The landscaped grounds around the little white church were well tended. An inviting picnic area sat off to the side of the driveway next to a children's play area. Although unused at that moment, you could imagine little voices calling out to each other in child's play. In the distance, East Tennessee's Appalachian mountains added poetic splendor on that sunny autum day. All around you God's handiwork beckoned you to sit aside your worries and embrace the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Now, little remains of this little spot of tranquility except a pile of rubble.
Or does it?
Through the faith of the members of Baileyton UMC we are reminded that The Church is more than a building. A church is strenth, compassion and a love for God that is carried through the hearts and minds of its members. It is a mirror that reflects to the world the love of Christ. You can never contain that in building nor destroy it by fire.
As we pray for the members of Baileyton United Methodist Church let us also remember to rejoice for the foundation of faith that will allow them to rebuild and reach out to the world for another 100 years and beyond.
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