March 20th, 2024 | Newsletter
Let’s read together!
As Holy Week approaches, let’s prepare our hearts and minds with a rich, brief read: Jon Meacham’s The Hope of Glory.
RSVP to Jane at janemherring@gmail.com if you want to attend Tuesday night zoom discussion.
Use “HOPE OF GLORY” in the subject line.
Pages 74-99 on Tuesday, March 26 at 7pm
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Don’t forget to open the newly added attachment to see Sunday’s order of worship
Lenten Wednesdays: Lectio Divina at 6pm and simple Lenten Supper at 6:30 -
Sign up to bring a simple supper of soup and bread, or beans and rice - something easy to share.
From 6-6:30 we will read and contemplate scripture.
At 6:30 we will gather around the table for a simple supper, customary for Lent.
Please sign up for one of the Wednesdays in Lent to bring a simple supper for sharing: email janemherring@gmail.com
March 13, 20, or 27.
Also:
Looking to Holy Week:
Maundy Thursday Supper of the Lamb: We will gather at EPC on Maundy Thursday, March 28th at 6:30. John and Terry Denton provide lamb and we all bring side dishes and desserts. It is a beautiful time together and I encourage all to attend, truly a church family occasion. We break bread together, have a brief liturgy of prayers and readings, and share memories and stories. Just as Jesus gathered with his beloved disciples, we gather ourselves up in His presence to break bread and remember.
Good Friday, March 29th at 6:30: We gather in the sanctuary for a quiet, contemplative service of Word, Prayer, and Lamentation, acknowledging the continuing ramifications of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world.
Bring the burdens of your heart and put them upon the cross of Jesus Christ at this Good Friday service.
Bring fresh flowers to place on the cross on Easter Sunday and we will see this same cross flower as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord.
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READINGS FOR THE COMING WEEK
READINGS FOR THE COMING WEEK
Liturgy of the Palms (March 24, 2024)
• Psalm
o Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
• Gospel
o Mark 11:1-11 or John 12:12-16
Liturgy of the Passion (March 24, 2024)
• First reading
o Isaiah 50:4-9a
• Psalm
o Psalm 31:9-16
• Second reading
o Philippians 2:5-11
• Gospel
o Mark 14:1-15:47 or Mark 15:1-39, (40-47)
Lenten Wednesdays: Lectio Divina at 6pm and simple Lenten Supper at 6:30 -
Sign up to bring a simple supper of soup and bread, or beans and rice - something easy to share.
From 6-6:30 we will read and contemplate scripture.
At 6:30 we will gather around the table for a simple supper, customary for Lent.
Please sign up for one of the Wednesdays in Lent to bring a simple supper for sharing: email janemherring@gmail.com
March 27.
Looking to Holy Week:
• Maundy Thursday, March 28th at 6:30 Supper of the Lamb at EPC:
o John and Terry Denton provide lamb and we all bring side dishes and desserts.
o We break bread together, have a brief liturgy of prayers and readings, and share memories and stories
o Just as Jesus gathered with his beloved disciples, we gather ourselves up in His presence to break bread and remember
• Good Friday, March 29th at 6:30 in the sanctuary:
o We will have a quiet, contemplative service of Word, Prayer, and Lamentation, as we acknowledge the continuing ramifications of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world.
o Bring the burdens of your heart and put them upon the cross of Jesus Christ at this Good Friday service.
• Easter Sunday March 31:
o Bring fresh flowers to place on the cross on Easter Sunday and we will see this same cross flower as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord.
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Litergical readers and schedule notes
Date Pulpit Liturgist Notes
3.24.24 Herring Sara or Greg B. Presentations by Greg B. and by EPC children
3.31.24 Herring Karen R. Easter
4.7.24 Herring Sandra H Communion
4.14.24 Herring Mark S.
4.21.24 Herring Darrell H.
4.28.24 Herring Karen R.
5.5.24 Herring Ginia W. Communion
5.12.24 Herring Barb
5.19.24 Herring
5.26.24 Herring
1. Thanks to all the liturgy volunteers!!!
2. It is so nice to be able to give Pastor Jane and John advance notice of the liturgist schedule, it helps them so much in their service planning.
3. We have 3 slots in May left to fill. Won’t you give it a try? – its fun, allows you to stretch yourself a little, helps interact with scripture in a different way and connect with God from a new perspective.
4. If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
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The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
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Luke 6:27-28 (NIV)
27 “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
Quotes about prayer:
Prayer is not monologue, but dialogue; God’s voice is its most essential part. Listening to God’s voice is the secret of the assurance that He will listen to mine. ~ Andy Murray
You are invited…
During the Lenten season, the EPC prayer group gathers on Wednesdays after the Lectio Divina service and supper to lift the prayers of the congregation and others. Come join us for reflection, followed by fellowship and then prayer. What more could you ask for!
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
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OGHS
One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is a significant initiative within the Presbyterian community. For 75 years, it has allowed Presbyterians to extend God’s love to our neighbors in need across the globe. This program addresses critical issues such as disaster relief, hunger prevention, and community development. Below is a small sample of the help that’s been offered:
1. Three Programs Supported by OGHS:
o Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA): Provides initial disaster response and ongoing community development, ensuring safety, sustenance, and hope for affected individuals.
o Presbyterian Hunger Program (PHP): Works to relieve hunger by distributing food and seeds, impacting 22 countries.
o Self-Development of People: Empowers communities to break free from poverty and oppression.
2. Your Impact:
o PDA has granted $3.1 million in the United States and 35 countries.
o PHP has given 90 grants in 22 countries, distributing over 55,000 pounds of seeds and seedlings for farming.
o 228,318 Gift of the Heart Kits and Blankets have been distributed.
o 291 certified PC (USA) Earth Care congregations contribute to caring for creation.
o 875 chickens were distributed in Guatemala and Colombia.
o A $5,500 grant supported small farmers in South Sudan.
o 105 women became self-employed in Malawi.
o 872 Presbyterian congregations purchased eco-palms for sustainable forestry and livelihoods.
o 152 people regained their land in Sri Lanka.
3. How to Participate:
o Typically received during Lent, each gift to OGHS supports hunger relief, development, and disaster assistance.
o Your contribution makes a difference in the lives of those in need. 100% of what is donated will go to the Mid-Tennessee Presbytery to be sent where it is needed.
OASIS
Great job EPC – 159 Goody Bags assembled! Delivery will be on March 21st and Oasis is thrilled because their stock was running low. Huge thank you to all of you who participated.
159 Goody Bags – March 2024
ALSO THIS…
Volunteers needed for GOSH DARN GRAVEL GATHERING
Saturday 3/30/24…This three-day gravel cycling event in Hickman County, TN is back for the seventh year with proceeds benefiting Oasis Bike Workshop! Volunteers will receive an event t-shirt, post-ride meal, and non-transferable free entry to next year’s even. They are also welcome to camp out on Friday or Saturday night. Tasks range from greeters, and registration help, to bonfire keepers and aid station volunteers. Use this link for more information and click the contact button: www.oasisbikeworkshop.org
Bike check-in and rider registration
AND THIS
East Nashville Beer Festival needs volunteer help
April 23, 2024 from 11 am- 2:30pm or 2pm – 5:30 pm
Contact Felisha at fbaquera@oasiscenter.org
Nueva Vida:
A request has come in for help from our Hispanic neighbors at Nueva Vida, a church we have partnered with in the past. They operate a food pantry that provides other necessities as well. Think of this as a Lenten “give to” item instead of a Lenten “give up” item. The following starred items are the most needed:
*Diapers (both those for children and for adults) *Feminine hygiene products
*Laundry detergent and fabric softener
Cooking oil
Rice
*Red beans, black beans
*Tortilla corn flour
*Cornmeal
Beds of all sizes
Powdered milk
Warm weather gear - coats/hats/gloves/warm socks
There is a collection box outside the children’s classroom. Thank you so much for helping us meet this need.
Tax Help:
• Note the additional date option below -
• United Way is using our sanctuary to provide free income tax preparation: January 31st – April 10th (for those making less than $70,000).
• There are appointments now available on Saturday March 23
• Wednesdays only, by appointment 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Call 615-206-7560 or go online to: Unitedwayfilefree.com
• Pass the word to others who might be interested
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Red Cross
Blood Drive update:
We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum. There is an attachment of a Red Cross Blood Drive flyer you can share on the front page of this email.
Date: May 31, 2024 (Friday) Time: Noon – 5:00 PM
sign up is now live, donor sign ups are needed
go to: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time
1. Key in zip code: EPC19
2. Click on : “Emmanuel Presbyterian Church” then choose your time slot
We need your ideas, we need your creativity, we need your networks. We are seeking collaborators for a variety of tasks in the months leading up to and on the day of the Blood drive, including:
• People with social media savvy to help make a plan for getting the word out
• People with creative skills to help develop flyers, messaging, and thank you tokens
• People with extensive networks that can help recruit donors
• People willing to help on the day of the drive to check in donors, make sure donors are offered thank you tokens, help place signage and help with clean up. If you are willing to be a partner in this meaningful mission work, please contact Barb Halverstadt at 615-473-3510 or via email at epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
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Financial Support:
As you may have noticed from our lengthy Mission section, we are involved in many projects in multiple ways. Some of our funding comes from the budgeted mission or other committee funds and some of it comes through specially designated funds from members or previous members of our congregation. If you would like to donate additional funds for a specific program, checks can be made to the following ongoing missions of EPC.
Community Garden
Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship
Crossroads Campus
Maple Village
Special Music Ministry events
Oasis
Please note on the memo line of your check which mission you intend to support.
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Church, you can contribute in the following ways:
• Online–send an electronic payment, your bank can help you set this up if you have questions.
• By Mail – our mailing address is EPC, 9770 Hwy 96, Nashville, TN 37221
• Through EPC’s website www.epcnashville.com or www.epcnashville.org Simply click on the “GIVE” button, then the “donate” button, to donate via PayPal or debit/credit card. This can be a one-time donation or can be set up as a monthly donation, although currently, this is not working, see below.
In regards to the PayPal online donation function:
We now have access to the PayPal account which was part of the problem, but we still must get the donation button function working again on our website. Frustrations and aggravations are duly noted. If it helps any, they are equally shared by others.
Current donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function. (Or in person, wink, wink)!
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One of our upcoming fellowship and worship activities will be the Supper of the Lamb. The other is the weekly zoom reading of John Meacham’s book,The Hope of Glory. See below for details on both events.
Looking forward to Holy Week:
Maundy Thursday Supper of the Lamb: We will gather at EPC on Maundy Thursday, March 28th at 6:30. John and Terry Denton provide lamb and we all bring side dishes and desserts. It is a beautiful time together and I encourage all to attend, truly a church family occasion. We break bread together, have a brief liturgy of prayers and readings, and share memories and stories. Just as Jesus gathered with his beloved disciples, we gather ourselves up in His presence to break bread and remember.
Good Friday, March 29th at 6:30: We gather in the sanctuary for a quiet, contemplative service of Word, Prayer, and Lamentation, acknowledging the continuing ramifications of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world.
Bring the burdens of your heart and put them upon the cross of Jesus Christ at this Good Friday service.
This same cross will flower on Easter morning as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord.
Easter Sunday: We gather for our 10am Worship Service in great gladness to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Special music, the flowering cross, Easter tidings and treats.
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Last Tuesday was the second of three Tuesday night Zoom group discussions of Jon Meacham’s The Hope of Glory.
Come on in to the Zoom Room @7pm. Check your email for link to enter on Tuesdays.
I hope folks will have questions and comments, but please feel free to join in for just listening.
We are a richly varied community and benefit from each other’s thoughts and experiences, whether they are similar to our own or very different - part of the beauty of being the Body of Christ together.
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Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window!
Thank to the following:
• March 24 - Claire
• March 31 - Karen and Fred
• April 7 - Marilyn
• Aoril 14
• April 21
• April 28
• May 5 - Barb
• May 12 – Claire
• If you would like to sign up, there is a list on the table next to the entrance/exit door from the sanctuary. Please pick a date that works for you. Sign up and if you remember, it is helpful to let me (Faith) know.
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Communication:
Welcome Visitors! We are excited to call your attention to, and encourage you to visit, our upgraded website! Go to www.epcnashville.com or www.epcnashville.org for all your questions. Cut and paste one of these sites in your browser. If you can’t find it there, try the options below.
• Visits with Pastor Jane Herring must be by appointment.
• Reach out to Pastor Jane on her church phone (call/text) 615-818-9727 or email at janemherring@gmail.com about what it means to be baptized, to be confirmed in the church (if you have already been baptized), to join the church or any other questions you might have.
• General EPC email can be sent to epcnashville@gmail.com (be aware that multiple people have access to this email account.
• If you ever have any questions about anything dealing with EPC’s finances or other business topics, email your question or request to epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
• Email announcements for the Sunday bulletin to janemherring@gmail.com
• Email Information or corrections for the weekly newsletter to frhanchey@gmail.com
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Ongoing:
Worship Committee Mtg every 2nd Sunday after service
Mission/Fellowship Committee Mtg every 3rd Sunday 9:30 am…that’s this Sunday!
Session Mtg every 3rd Monday
Each Wednesday through April 10th – United Way tax prep workshops 1 pm – 6 pm.
Lectio Divina every Wednesday during Lent at 6 pm with a simple meal@ 6:30 pm.
2nd Thursday of each month (except for December) - Rug Hookers meet 10 am – 2 pm.
Collecting Lenten “gifts of love” for the Nueva Vida community through end of March.
March 24: Palm Sunday
March 24: Garden plot building after church in pavilion
March 28: Maunday Thursday
March 29: Good Friday
March 30: Volunteer to help at the Oasis fundraiser: the Gosh Darn Gravel Gathering
March 31: Easter
June 9-15: Montreat Youth Conference
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Inquirers of all ages:
• Please reach out to Pastor Jane about what it means to be baptized, to be confirmed in the church (if you have already been baptized) or to join the church.
• Lent begins next week on Wednesday February 14th. Pastor Jane will offer a Lenten service complete with the marking of a cross on one’s forehead if you so choose. This is done as a way to pronounce the importance of Jesus Christ in your life.
• After the Lenten service is complete, there will be a meal served and a short Lectio Divina which is comprised of short bible readings, contemplation and a time to listen to what has turned out in past times to be deep meaningful conversations. At 7 pm there will be a short simple meal served.
• Please let Jane know if you are willing to bring one of the Lenten meals for sharing. You can reach her at 615.818.9727.
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• The children, big and small, (all those under 18!) are invited to participate in a special practice time for something being planned on Palm Sunday. If possible, I need parents to allow their children to come to the kid’s classroom when Jane finishes her sermon, sometime during the offertory til the end of church. Thank you.
• At Emmanuel we offer a “kid’s message” during the early part of the worship service, followed by a “children’s church” in the kid’s classroom for those up to 10 years old or still in elementary school. The message is a short story that usually has some sort of lesson related to it and in children’s church we usually discuss the story in more depth and follow it with a craft or activity that helps the story (and the lesson!) sink in.
• A nursery is available for those under 3.
• We offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those over 10 who want some time to share what is on their mind.
• We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
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Hats off to John D for stepping up and agreeing to pick up the lumber and building the requested new garden boxes. That gives all the rest of y’all an excuse to go home and relax after next Sunday’s service.
The kids still need items to keep doing preliminary plantings and to prep for future gardening success. If you have any of the following, we could use them. Please put on a table in the pavilion.
clear 2-liter soda bottles with lids 1½ quart ice cream containers
½ gallon milk jugs (clear or not) w lids any 2’ or 3’ pieces of scrap gutter
old pool noodles of any length Large yogurt or sour cream containers
more toilet paper rolls odd or left-over mismatched socks
Thank you.
Success! Elizabeth’s tiny little tomato sprout. I bet it will produce the best tasting ones you ever ate! It will go in the garden after temps are consistently warmer.
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Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
Class of 2026
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell