EPC Resources
February 14th, 2024 | Newsletter
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Ash Wednesday (February 14, 2024)
• First reading
o Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12
• Psalm
o Psalm 51:1-17
• Second reading
o 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
• Gospel * Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Readings for First Sunday in Lent
First Sunday in Lent
February 18, 2024
Genesis 9:8-17
Psalm 25:1-10
1 Peter 3:18-22
Mark 1:9-15
Lent, February 14th
• Lent begins today and there will be at 6:30 pm service tonight, Wednesday February 14th. Pastor Jane will offer a Lenten service complete with the marking of a cross with ashes on one’s forehead if you so choose. This is done as a way to pronounce the importance of Jesus Christ in your life and to remind yourself and others that it is only through our relationship with Jesus that we will ever be truly complete.
• 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. All are invited but please let Pastor Jane know if you plan to bring any food.
-
Date Pulpit Liturgist
2.11.24 Herring Diana B.
2.18.24 Herring Jan R.
2.25.24 Herring Diana B.
3.3.24 Herring
3.10.24 Herring Barbara D.
3.17.24 Herring
3.24.24 Herring
3.31.24 Herring Karen S.
Pastor Jane and her liturgical helpers
• Thank you if you are one of our volunteer liturgical readers!
• We have three opportunities available in March if you want to fill one of those spots.
• If you wish to be a volunteer liturgist, please send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473- 3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Matthew 26:41 (NIV)
41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Quotes about prayer:
The value of persistent prayer is not that God will hear us, but that we will finally hear God. - William McGill
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise. If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
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 is a list of most needed items:
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
Muchas gracias a todas!
(Many thanks to all!)
There is a collection box in the hall by the children’s classroom.
Tax Help:
• UnitedWay is using our sanctuary to provide free income tax preparation: January 31st – April 10th (for those making less than $70,000).
• 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
Red Cross:
We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum.
• Date: May 31, 2024 (Friday)
• Time: Noon – 5:00 PM
• Announcement will be sent as soon as online sign-ups are live
• Volunteers are still needed to assist Barbara with this, call 615-473-3510 or email epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
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
Crossroads Campus
Building Stability Requires Opportunity And Exposure
That’s the reality for the young people in our community who are working to overcome poverty, homelessness or time in the foster care system. The Crossroads Campus Affordable Housing Program for young adults opened in 2016 as a pilot, model program above our social enterprise pet store in Germantown. It consists of a 4-bedroom unit, with shared kitchen and living accommodations.
Residents referred to the program receive intensive weekly individual case management. Our residents are required to pay rent, both as a means of helping to sustain the program and as part of preparing them for independent living .Residents are referred to us by partnering agencies, including Monroe Harding, Oasis Center, YouthCAN, and the Martha O’Bryan Center.
A unique feature of our program is that we do not impose a time limit on the length of stay. Our experience has been that some of our young people only require a few months with us, while others may need to stay for up to several years, depending upon their individual circumstances.
Residents are required to comply with program rules and to work toward specific education, career and future housing goals as outlined in individualized program plans. These goals are managed through individual weekly meetings.
In addition, residents benefit from supplemental group meetings and training activities to encourage community building, financial literacy, healthy nutrition and other positive daily living skills. Paid job-training is available through our Crossroads Pets program, although some residents work in jobs off site.
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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 special 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 Center
• EPC’s general fund is a separate category that can be supplemented to offset our deficit.
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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
-
We enjoyed dogs (the hot edible kind!) and s’mores last Sunday after church. We really didn’t plan much in advance but the ones who were able to stay had a full meal deal and some good laughs. Special thanks to Terry and Ginia who put it all together. Good job!
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window! Thank you to the following:
• Feb 18 Barb
• Feb 25 - ??
• March 3 - ??
• March 10 - Doug and Sue
• March 17 - Doug and Sue
• March 24 - ??
• March 31 - Karen and Fred
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you. Thank you all so much for your willingness to serve.
-
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
-
Prayer Group every Wednesday at 6 pm
Each Wednesday through April 10th – United Way tax prep workshops 1 pm – 6 pm.
2nd Thursday of each month (except for December) - Rug Hookers meet 10 am – 2 pm.
February 14th: Ash Wednesday service and imposition of ashes, 6-6:30 pm.
February 14: Lectio Divina every Wednesday during Lent 6 - 6:30 with a simple meal@ 6:40 pm.
February 18: Worship Committee meeting after service, every 2nd Sunday.
February 18: Fellowship/Mission meeting 9:30 am in children’s classroom, every 3rd Sunday.
February 19: Session meeting, every 3rd Sunday
-
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.
-
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 and we offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those 10 and over 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.
Special Note: There will be no “children’s church” on Sunday February 11th.
-
It’s time to start prepping for spring gardening. There is a fantastic web site I have found that helps walk you through all you need to know and when you need to do what. Check out seedtime.us if you have any interest in growing your own locally grown organic veggies!
Needed:
• Clean one-gallon translucent milk or ice tea jugs, complete with lids
• Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls.
• There is a box outside by the children’s classroom door for you to place them in.
• Let me know if you want to reserve a plot for this year. We have several spoken for already.
-
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
February 7th, 2024 | Newsletter
-
Transfiguration Sunday (February 11, 2024)
• First reading
o 2 Kings 2:1-12
• Psalm
o Psalm 50:1-6
• Second reading
o 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
• Gospel
o Mark 9:2-9
Lent, February 14th
• Lent begins next week and at 6:30 pm 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 and to remind yourself and others that it is only through our relationship with Jesus that we will ever be truly complete.
• 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.
-
Date Pulpit Liturgist
2.11.24 Herring Diana
2.18.24 Herring Jan
2.25.24 Herring Diana
3.3.24
3.10.24 Barbara
3.17.24
3.24.24
3.31.24 Karen
• Thank you if you are one of our volunteer liturgical readers!
• We have three opportunities available in March if you want to fill one of those spots.
• If you wish to be a volunteer liturgist, please send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473- 3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Prayer and Praise:
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise. If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Missions:
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 is a list of most needed items:
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
(**WalMart had kids coats on clearance on Monday, FYI)
Muchas gracias a todas!
(Many thanks to all!)
Tax Help:
• UnitedWay is using our sanctuary to provide free income tax preparation: January 31st – April 10th (for those making less than $70,000).
• Wednesdays only, by appointment 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Call 615-206-7560 or go online to: Unitedwayfilefree.com
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum.
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
Oasis
We continue to collect donations to help support the Oasis goody bag mission. When you give to this mission, please put “Oasis” in the memo line of your check. The first delivery of goody bags for 2024 will be done in late Feb./early March.
Crossroads Campus
Young Adult Programs: Job Training
We provide young adults with paid job training internships through our Pet Retail Store, Grooming Salon, Animal Care/Pet Adoptions and Dog Treat Bakery. All the proceeds from these services go back into supporting the mission of improving the lives of the youth and animals in the community. Our program participants also receive social work case management and have access to affordable housing.
As part of Crossroads’ mission to help people and animals in our community, our Caring Connections program offers Humane Education classes to students & adults, so they may learn about proper pet care, communication, patience, and empathy for animals and humans alike.
Humane Education can be defined as education that promotes compassion, empathy, and respect for all living beings. It encompasses the intersection of people, animals, and our shared environment. It nurtures compassion in children and adults as they learn to see the world through the eyes of others and gain respect & empathy for those around us. We could all use lessons like this.
-
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 special 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 Center
• EPC’s general fund is a separate category that can be supplemented to offset our deficit.
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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
-
We enjoyed dogs (the edible kind!) and s’mores last Sunday after church. We really didn’t plan much in advance but the ones who were able to stay had a full meal deal and some good laughs. Special thanks to Terry and Ginia who put it all together. Good job!
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window! Thank you to the following:
• Jan – February 11
• Barb – Feb 18
• Doug and Sue – March 10
• Doug and Sue – March 17
• Karen and Fred -- March 31st
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you. Thank you all so much for your willingness to serve.
-
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
-
Prayer Group every Wednesday at 6 pm
February 11th: There will be no children’s church this Sunday.
February 14th: Ash Wednesday service and imposition of ashes, 6-6:30 pm.
February 14: Lectio Divina every Wednesday during Lent 6 - 6:30 with a simple meal@ 6:40 pm
February 18: Worship Committee meeting after service, every 2nd Sunday
February 18: Fellowship/Mission meeting 9:30 am in children’s classroom, every 3rd Sunday
February 19: Session meeting, every 3rd Sunday
-
Christian Education:
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.
• Mollie and Ellie shared the spotlight last Sunday as they were baptized by Pastor Jane. It was both a time of smiles and tears. We vowed, as a congregation, to welcome, guide and encourage them as they travel on their Christian journey.
-
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 and we offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those 10 and over 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.
Special Note: There will be no “children’s church” on Sunday February 11th.
-
It’s time to start prepping for spring gardening.
Needed:
• Clean one-gallon translucent milk or ice tea jugs, complete with lids
• Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls.
• There is a box outside by the children’s classroom door for you to place them in.
• Let me know if you want to reserve a plot for this year.
-
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
January 31st, 2024 | Newsletter
-
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
February 4, 2024
Isaiah 40:21-31
Psalm 147:1-11, 20c
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Mark 1:29-39
-
Date Pulpit Liturgist
2.4.24 Herring Ginia
2.11.24 Herring Diana
2.18.24 Herring Jan
2.25.24 Herring Diana
3.3.24
3.10.24 Barbara
3.17.24
3.24.24
3.31.24 Karen
Thank you to those who have signed up to be liturgists. We are now looking for someone for the first and third Sundays in February and the first four Sundays in March. Won’t you give it a try? – it provides an opportunity to stretch yourself a little, interact with scripture in a different way and connect with God from a new perspective.
If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to:
epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Quotes about prayer: Prayer, then, is a matter of our participating in the life of Jesus Christ.- Michael Casey
James 5:16 (NIV)
16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise. If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Missions:
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 is a list of most needed items:
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
(**WalMart had kids coats on clearance on Monday, FYI)
Muchas gracias a todas!
(Many thanks to all!)
Tax Help:
• UnitedWay is using our sanctuary to provide free income tax preparation: January 31st – April 10th (for those making less than $70,000).
• Wednesdays only, by appointment 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Call 615-206-7560 or go online to: Unitedwayfilefree.com
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum.
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
Oasis
We continue to collect donations to help support the Oasis goody bag mission. When you give to this mission, please put “Oasis” in the memo line of your check. The first delivery of goody bags for 2024 will be done in late Feb./early March.
Crossroads Campus
Young Adult Programs: Job Training
We provide young adults with paid job training internships through our Pet Retail Store, Grooming Salon, Animal Care/Pet Adoptions and Dog Treat Bakery. All the proceeds from these services go back into supporting the mission of improving the lives of the youth and animals in the community. Our program participants also receive social work case management and have access to affordable housing.
As part of Crossroads’ mission to help people and animals in our community, our Caring Connections program offers Humane Education classes to students & adults, so they may learn about proper pet care, communication, patience, and empathy for animals and humans alike.
Humane Education can be defined as education that promotes compassion, empathy, and respect for all living beings. It encompasses the intersection of people, animals, and our shared environment. It nurtures compassion in children and adults as they learn to see the world through the eyes of others and gain respect & empathy for those around us. We could all use lessons like this.
-
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 special 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 Center
• EPC’s general fund is a separate category that can be supplemented to offset our deficit.
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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
-
• February 4: THIS SUNDAY!! The fellowship committee is planning an outdoor get together with a weather-dependent wienies and marshmallow cook-out. It will be a gathering time to catch up with each other as we relax and reset after the craziness part of the holidays.
So the weather was a little warmer last time around but lots of fun still awaits!
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window! Thank you to the following:
• Claire -- February 4
• Jan – February 11
• Barb – Feb 18
• Doug and Sue – March 10
• Doug and Sue – March 17
• Karen and Fred -- March 31st
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you. Thank you all so much for your willingness to serve.
-
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
-
February 4: Communion Sunday
February 4th and 11th: There will be no children’s church these two Sundays.
February 18: Worship Committee meeting after service
February 18: Fellowship/Mission meeting 9:30 am in children’s classroom
February 19: Session meeting
-
Christian Education:
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.
• Mollie and Ellie shared the spotlight last Sunday as they were baptized by Pastor Jane. It was both a time of smiles and tears. We vowed, as a congregation, to welcome, guide and encourage them as they travel on their Christian journey.
-
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 and we offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those 10 and over 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.
Special Note: There will be no “children’s church” on Sunday February 11th.
-
It’s time to start prepping for spring gardening.
Needed:
• Clean one-gallon translucent milk or ice tea jugs, complete with lids
• Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls.
• There is a box outside by the children’s classroom door for you to place them in.
• Let me know if you want to reserve a plot for this year.
-
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
January 24th, 2024 | Newsletter
-
• First reading
o Deuteronomy 18:15-20
• Psalm
o Psalm 111
• Second reading
o 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
• Gospel
o Mark 1:21-28
-
Date Pulpit Litergist
2.4.24 Herring Ginia
2.11.24 Herring Diana B.
2.18.24 Herring Jan
2.25.24 Herring Diana B.
3.3.24
3.10.24
3.17.24
Thank you to those who have signed up to be liturgists. We are now looking for someone for the first and third Sundays in February and the first four Sundays in March. Won’t you give it a try? – it provides an opportunity to stretch yourself a little, interact with scripture in a different way and connect with God from a new perspective.
If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to:
epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Psalm 102:17 (NIV)
17 He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.
Quotes about prayer:
“And so I urge you: carry on an ongoing conversation with God about the daily stuff of life, a little like Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof. For now, do not worry about ‘proper’ praying, just talk to God”. - J. Foster
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
We missed our regularly scheduled missions/fellowship committee meeting because of the snow. We will be making it up this coming Sunday morning, at 9:30 in the children’s classroom. See you there!
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have
had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum.
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
Crossroads Campus
Young Adult Programs: Pet Grooming
Your pets deserve the best! Crossroads was named “Favorite Dog Groomer” in Nextdoor neighborhoods across Nashville!
The professional dog (and cat) groomers treat your pets like family when they visit the Crossroads grooming salon. They prioritize animal safety and comfort while your pets are in their care, and focus on healthy skin and coat maintenance. Their services are tailored to breed appearance and standards, as well as customer preferences and the groomers use high quality products and a gentle touch.
All the proceeds from their professional grooming services go back into supporting their mission of improving the lives of the youth and animals in the community. EPC has committed to donating $25/month in support of their mission to partner homeless pets with homeless youth, giving both an opportunity to grow and thrive together.
Oasis:
We continue to collect donations to help support the Oasis goody bag mission. When you give to this mission, please put “Oasis” in the memo line of your check. The first delivery of goody bags for 2024 will be done in late Feb./early March.
-
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
If you want to make a one-time charitable donation, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project – our year-round mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and to supply goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth ages 18-24;
• The Community Garden – our seasonal mission to grow and harvest fresh produce for the residents of Maple Village and to provide a free gardening opportunity for anyone with a desire to grow their own vegetables.
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
• Or to EPC’s general fund – to help offset our deficit.
-
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window!
• Susie and Doug are providing snacks for fellowship this coming Sunday -- Jan 28
• Barb is signed up for Feb 18 and Karen and Fred on March 31st.
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you.
-
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
-
• January 28: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
• Worship Committee meeting and session meeting were postponed d/t snow. Rescheduled times will be posted.
• January 28: Mollie and Ellie will be celebrating the holy sacrament of baptism today.
• February 11: There will be no children’s church.
-
Christian Education:
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.
• We look forward to celebrating the sacrament of baptism with Mollie and little Ellie during church on Sunday. Please join us as we pledge to raise them up, guide, and support them along their Christian journey.
-
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 and we offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those 10 and over 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.
Special Note: There will be no “children’s church” on Sunday February 11th.
-
It was a SNOW SunDAY! We used the skills we have learned from Covid and put them to good use as we were able to celebrate the Lord’s Day via Zoom. Let us worship together always!
-
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
January 17th, Newsletter
-
• First reading
o Jonah 3:1-5, 10
• Psalm
o Psalm 62:5-12
• Second reading
o 1 Corinthians 7:29-31
• Gospel
o Mark 1:14-20
-
1.21.24 Herring Barbara H.
1.28.24 Herring Karen S.
2.4.24 Herring ————
2.11.24 Herring Diana B.
2.18.24 Herring ————
2.25.24 Herring Diana B.
Thank you to those who have signed up to be liturgists. We are now looking for someone for the first and third Sundays in February and the first four Sundays in March. Won’t you give it a try? – it provides an opportunity to stretch yourself a little, interact with scripture in a different way and connect with God from a new perspective.
If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to:
epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Jeremiah 29:12 (NIV)
12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.
Quotes about prayer:
“Prayer is not an old woman’s amusement. Properly understood and applied, it is the most potent instrument of action.” - Mahatma Gandhi
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Joy offering: The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum. 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
Other Mission News:
Crossroads Campus, a Nashville ministry whose stated mission is “Transforming lives by creating opportunities for individuals facing poverty and homelessness to care for homeless dogs and cats.”
We believe in the healing power of the human-animal bond.
Crossroads Campus. Where people and animals connect.
-
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
If you want to make a one-time charitable donation, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project – our year-round mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and to supply goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth ages 18-24;
• The Community Garden – our seasonal mission to grow and harvest fresh produce for the residents of Maple Village and to provide a free gardening opportunity for anyone with a desire to grow their own vegetables.
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
• Or to EPC’s general fund – to help offset our deficit.
-
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window!
• Richard and Diana are providing snacks for fellowship this coming Sunday -- Jan 21
• Susie and Doug are up on the 28th ;
• Barb is signed up for Feb 18 and Karen and Fred on March 31st.
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you.
-
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
-
January 21: Childrens services start for 2024
January 21: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
January 22: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
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 and we offer a “chat time ” in a safe space for those 10 and over 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.
Special Note: The children’s church program for ages 3-10 will return on Sunday January 21st.
-
This Sunday we will play by ear, checking in with weather and building and grounds regarding the state of the parking lot. If we cannot meet in person, we will have some form of zoom worship at the regular hour of the Lord's Day.
-
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell,
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
January 10th, Newsletter
-
• First reading
o 1 Samuel 3:1-10, (11-20)
• Psalm
o Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
• Second reading
o 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
• Gospel
o John 1:43-51
-
Welcome to 2024! Future Liturgists…We need you! We need liturgists for all of January and February. Won’t you give it a try – it provides an opportunity to stretch yourself a little, interact with scripture in a different way and interact with God from a new perspective.
If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to:
epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Ephesians 6:19-20
19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Quotes about prayer:
Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. - Mahatma Gandhi
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Joy offering: The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum. 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
Other Mission News:
Crossroads Campus, a Nashville ministry whose stated mission is “Transforming lives by creating opportunities for individuals facing poverty and homelessness to care for homeless dogs and cats.”
We believe in the healing power of the human-animal bond.
Crossroads Campus. Where people and animals connect.
-
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
If you want to make a one-time charitable donation, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project – our year-round mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and to supply goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth ages 18-24;
• The Community Garden – our seasonal mission to grow and harvest fresh produce for the residents of Maple Village and to provide a free gardening opportunity for anyone with a desire to grow their own vegetables.
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
• Or to EPC’s general fund – to help offset our deficit.
-
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window! Donuts not guaranteed but they sure look good in the picture.
• Jan has signed up to supply us with goodies this coming Sunday. Thank you Jan. Barb is signed up for Feb 18 but every date up til then is available
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you.
-
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
-
January 14: Congregational Meeting to elect elders for class of 2026.
January 14: Worship committee meeting after church
January 21: Childrens services start for 2024
January 21: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
January 22: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
Special Note: The children’s church program for ages 3-10 will return on Sunday January 21st.
-
The vegetable garden outside looks old and dead but the plans for it inside my head are swirling a million miles a minute. Thanks to the session’s approval, I will be leading an effort to add 3 more 4’ x 4’ plots to the area. If you are interested in working on the garden project, please let me know. This is the time to think, catalog shop and plan your space! Let’s do this!
-
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell,
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
January 3rd, Newsletter
-
Baptism of the Lord
January 7, 2024
First Sunday after the Epiphany
Genesis 1:1-5
Psalm 29
Acts 19:1-7
Mark 1:4-11
-
Welcome to 2024! Future Liturgists…We need you! We need liturgists for all of January and February. Won’t you give it a try – it provides an opportunity to stretch yourself a little, interact with scripture in a different way and interact with God from a new perspective.
If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to:
epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or call 615-473-3510.
-
The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Ephesians 6:19-20
19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Quotes about prayer:
Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. - Mahatma Gandhi
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Joy offering: The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum. 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
Other Mission News:
Crossroads Campus, a Nashville ministry whose stated mission is “Transforming lives by creating opportunities for individuals facing poverty and homelessness to care for homeless dogs and cats.”
We believe in the healing power of the human-animal bond.
Crossroads Campus. Where people and animals connect.
-
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
If you want to make a one-time charitable donation, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project – our year-round mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and to supply goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth ages 18-24;
• The Community Garden – our seasonal mission to grow and harvest fresh produce for the residents of Maple Village and to provide a free gardening opportunity for anyone with a desire to grow their own vegetables.
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
• Or to EPC’s general fund – to help offset our deficit.
-
• Join us for fellowship and a fresh cup of coffee around the kitchen window! Donuts not guaranteed but they sure look good in the picture.
• Jan has signed up to supply us with goodies this coming Sunday. Thank you Jan. Barb is signed up for Feb 18 but every date up til then is available
• If you would like to sign up, there is a sheet on the stand in back. Please pick a date that works for you.
-
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
-
January 7: Communion Sunday
January 7: and remove Christmas tree and building ornaments
January 14: Congregational Meeting to elect elders for class of 2026.
January 14: Worship committee meeting after church
January 21: Childrens services start for 2024
January 21: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
January 22: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
Special Note: The children’s church program for ages 3-10 will return on Sunday January 21st.
-
The vegetable garden outside looks old and dead but the plans for it inside my head are swirling a million miles a minute. Thanks to the session’s approval, I will be leading an effort to add 3 more 4’ x 4’ plots to the area. If you are interested in working on the garden project, please let me know. This is the time to think, catalog shop and plan your space! Let’s do this!
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Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell,
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
December 27th, Newsletter
-
First reading
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Psalm
Psalm 148
Second reading
Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel
Luke 2:22-40
-
12.31….. Sandra
Start the new year off by trying something different - We are now seeking liturgists for January and February, 2024. If you wish to volunteer, please send an email to Barb at or call 615-473-3510.
-
Please plan to stay for a brief congregational meeting after service on December 31st.
This meeting will address the following topics:
1) To approve changes in Rev. Herring’s terms of call
2) To elect a nominating committee for elder elections for the class of 2026
3) To present the budget as approved by the session
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The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
-
Psalm 145:17-19
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.
18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God. -Teresa of Avila
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Joy offering: The amount collected for the Christmas Joy offering was $325.00. The mission committee thanks you for your generosity.
Red Cross:
Partners needed – believe it or not, it takes a small village to host a successful Blood Drive. We are already planning for our 3rd annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We have had two very successful blood drives and we want to build on that momentum. 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
Other Mission News:
Crossroads Campus, a Nashville ministry whose stated mission is “Transforming lives by creating opportunities for individuals facing poverty and homelessness to care for homeless dogs and cats.”
We believe in the healing power of the human-animal bond.
Crossroads Campus. Where people and animals connect.
-
If you are planning to make a year-end charitable donation, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
The Oasis project – our year-round, multi-faceted mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth ages 18-24;
The Community Garden
The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
Or to
EPC’s general fund (to help offset our deficit)
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
-
Stick around after church on Jan 7th, (maybe) and help us take down ornaments, building decorations and take the tree to the pavilion.
Many hands make light work, many mouths make fun work.
-
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
-
January Calendar:
December 31: Congregational meeting directly after service
January 7: Communion Sunday
January 7: Undress and remove Christmas tree and building ornaments
January 14: Worship committee meeting after church
January 21: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
January 22: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
Special Note: The children’s church program for ages 3-10 will return on Sunday January 21st.
Special Note: There will not be any kids message reading or children’s worship service offered on December 24th as both teachers will be out of town.
-
Thrift (pink spring flowering ground-cover) is available to anyone who wants it.
It has been dug up and is on the ground under the tree by the front office window.
There is plenty, help yourself or your friend or your neighbor.
Orange Tiger lily (?) bulbs are also available.
Let Faith know this week if you are interested.
-
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell,
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
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The poinsettias that graced our altar last Sunday were given by the following members of Emmanuel Presbyterian Church
In memory of Pete Halverstadt by Barb Halverstadt
In memory of John G. Doak, Sr. Barb Halverstadt
In memory of Hugh Halverstadt Barb Halverstadt
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clements Barb Halverstadt
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Doak Barb Halverstadt
In memory of Patrick Hilliard Barb Halverstadt
In memory of Austin Hanchey Faith Hanchey
In memory of Matt Wieland Faith Hanchey
In memory of my parents: Jim and Ruth Rawlins Faith Hanchey
In memory of our parents: MJane Kelush, and Doug and Sue Hill
Richard and Mary V. Stanton
In memory of Norris Hoover Anne Kardenetz
In memory of Jerry Stuth Kerri, Derrick and Chloe
In memory of Michael Ross Rosenberg Fred & Karen Rosenberg
In memory of Terry Russell Janet Russell
In memory of Clarine Payne Janet Russell
December 13th, Newsletter
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• First reading
o Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
• Psalm
o Psalm 126 or Luke 1:46b-55
• Second reading
o 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
• Gospel
o John 1:6-8, 19-28
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Litergist’s Schedule:
The rest of 2023 is now covered, thanks to all who serve! We are now seeking liturgists for January 2024. If you wish to volunteer, please call 615-473-3510 or send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
12.17 … Diana
12.24 ….. Darrell
12.31….. Sandra
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Samual Polanco is no stranger to the power of walls.
Especially their potential to exclude.
Polanco, a 2022 graduate of the Menaul School — a PC(USA)-related, grades 6-12 college preparatory school located in Albuquerque, New Mexico — has faced walls his entire life.
Throughout his 19 years, Polanco has known and seen walls, both literal and figurative, that separated him and others from being their best selves.
He credits his experience at Menaul, which he entered as a sixth grader, as being instrumental in breaking down life’s many barriers.
Polanco’s Menaul education was made possible, in part, by gifts to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s Christmas Joy Offering, which helps Menaul provide scholarships to exceptional students. A cherished Presbyterian tradition since the 1930s, the annual offering distributes gifts equally to the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions and to Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color.
“When I first came to Menaul, I felt like the school was made for me because I’d been bullied a lot in elementary school, not only by the students but also by their parents,” he said. “When I came here, I felt free of that — able to explore the ideas I wanted to explore, learn what I wanted to learn and just be myself for once in my life. And that’s what Menaul has done for all of us. We can just be ourselves here.”
And although Polanco’s observation applies to Menaul more broadly, he also intended it as a special nod to his friends and classmates, Abigail Nyase and Michael Hedenberg, with whom he spent five days on the U.S.-Mexico border for the school’s traditional “mission week.”
This past April, the 35 members of the class of 2022 became students and volunteers through Frontera de Cristo, whose mission is to build relationships and understanding across borders.
As Polanco headed into the mission week experience with some fears about Covid — which he had the previous November — he was also understandably concerned about confronting the racist legacy and behaviors evoked by the border wall and the ongoing immigration crisis.
“I knew that this was going to be a difficult trip for me personally because my dad is originally from Mexico,” he said. “And the day we were waiting to get on the vans, there were some jokes being made about the border by some other students in the lower grades. That upset me very much, and I told them to knock it off.”
John Sitler, who teaches Upper School religious studies at Menaul and was a senior adviser to the Class of 2022, praised his three former students, Polanco, Nyase and Hedenberg, as among the top leaders in their class. They — and he — were profoundly moved by what they saw and heard during mission week, especially walking the Migrant Trail to the wall.
“It may sound like a cliché, but one thing that the students got out of the experience of seeing this ‘scar’ on the earth, which seems obvious, is that the most dangerous walls are the walls in our minds,” Sitler said.
Then, citing the school’s relatively new motto, “World Smart Education — Educating Students in Mind, Body and Spirit,” he added, “Menaul being ‘World Smart’ means to break down the walls toward our common humanity.”
Wherever the students saw hate and division, Sitler said they were glad to have an opportunity to connect with others “in person,” especially during mission week.
“Jesus is the model for that,” Sitler said.
• Joy offering to date: $250.00
• If you are donating with a check, please put “Joy Offering” in the memo line.
-
Psalm 145:17-19
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.
18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God. -Teresa of Avila
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Missions:
Oasis:
• We have chosen the Oasis Center to be the recipient of our Christmas giving this year. We’ll sponsor 3 families and will be following Oasis’ suggestion of gifting a $25 Dominoes card, $25 Kroger card & a $25 Amazon card per family. Oasis will pick the families.
• Oasis has also provided us with a list of winter items that would be most appreciated (see below). Sue has decorated the collection box and it is set up in the sanctuary. These items will be delivered just before Thanksgiving. Share your blessings, as you are able, with those less fortunate.
Requested winter Items: (any size)
• Hats, beanies, gloves, hand & foot warmers, blankets, jackets, coats, long-sleeved t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, leggings, chap-stick, and fast-food gift cards.
• The assembly of the goody bags will be done as part of the regular service on Dec 17. The delivery will be December 20th.
• If you wish to contribute to this mission, submit your contribution with “Oasis Project” in the memo line.
Maple Village:
We will be delivering Christmas cookies on Dec 17. This is the day of the “Carols and Cookies” celebration after service so bring cookies to eat and cookies to share with our friends at Maple Village. Cookie delivery will take place when the fellowship time has ended.
Red Cross:
Volunteers needed – believe it or not, we are already planning for our annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We want to build on the last two years of successful Blood Drives and your help is needed. We are seeking volunteers 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 lend a hand, please contact Barb Halverstadt at 615-473-3510 or via email at epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
-
Finance:
If you are in the habit of making year-end charitable donations, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project—our year-round, multifaceted mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth.
• The Community Garden
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
2024 Generosity/Stewardship Campaign:
The deadline for submitting your 2024 Pledge Card was October 29, 2023. If you wish to pledge and have not yet done so, please make your submission by emailing it to epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or epcgenerosity@gmail.com
• Thanks to all who pledged to support EPC for the upcoming year!
• Thanks to all who give to support EPC, whether the giving is pledged or not!
• Thanks to the many who give above and beyond their pledge to support missions, our youth, and all the many things that EPC does with and for our community!
• Thanks to the many who give of their precious resources of time and energy to maintain and improve our worship, facilities, and programs!
• And a special thank you to Pastor Jane for her insightful and inspirational messages each week.
*2024 Budget will be presented to the congregation for a vote on Dec 17th
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• Saturday December 16: Advent Workshop with Dean Victor Judge on Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, 9-2 (RSVP to Jane for lunch). Jane still has one book available if anyone is needing a copy.
• Sunday December 17 we share the holiday spirit with cookies and carols. Bring some to eat and some to share. We will be making our last 2023 visit to the residents of Maple Village as we deliver some Christmas Cookie cheer!
-
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
-
December 10: Worship committee meeting after church
December 10: Second Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10am
December 13: Wednesday evening Blue Christmas Service of Hope and Healing, 6-7pm
December 16: Saturday Advent Workshop with Dean Victor Judge on Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, 9-2 (RSVP to Jane for lunch).
December 17: Third Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10 am
December 17: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
December 17: Assembly of Goody bags during worship service
December 17: Cookies and Carols after service, bring some to eat and some for Maple Village.
December 17: Cookie delivery to Maple Village
December 18: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
December 20: Wednesday evening contemplative Advent practice, 6-7 pm
December 24: Fourth Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, and Lessons and Carols, 10 am.
December 24: Sunday evening Candlelight Christmas Eve service of Christmas Readings and Song, 4:30 pm
December 25: Christmas morning (Monday) brief, contemplative service and lighting of the Christ candle on the Advent Wreath, 8-8:30am, coffee and breakfast items served at 8:40am
January 1: Happy New Year, 2024
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
Special Note: There will not be any kids message reading or children’s worship service offered on December 24th as both teachers will be out of town.
-
Thrift (pink spring flowering ground-cover) is available to anyone who wants it.
It has been dug up and is on the ground under the tree by the front office window.
There is plenty, help yourself or your friend or your neighbor.
Orange Tiger lily (?) bulbs are also available.
Let Faith know this week if you are interested.
-
Presenting Your Slate of Elders
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
December 6th, Newsletter
-
• First reading
o Isaiah 40:1-11
• Psalm
o Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
• Second reading
o 2 Peter 3:8-15a
• Gospel
o Mark 1:1-8
-
Litergist’s Schedule:
The rest of 2023 is now covered, thanks to all who serve! We are now seeking liturgists for January 2024. If you wish to volunteer, please call 615-473-3510 or send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
12-10 … Barb
12.17 … Diana
12.24 ….. Darrell
12.31….. Sandra
-
THE PERFECT GIFT
When Jesus was born among us, he came as a helpless baby destined to bring joy, peace and salvation to his people. This child, God’s Word made flesh — fully human and fully God — became one of us. One with us. One among us. In all of our vulnerabilities, struggles and triumphs, Jesus became one of us —leading us, knowing us, connecting us to himself and to each other, and offering us his gift of eternal life. The perfect gift.
Through the Christmas Joy Offering, we reflect God’s perfect gift to us, with generous support of church leaders among us — past, present and future — who have pointed us to God. We honor and celebrate leaders like retired pastors, church workers and their families who have faithfully guided and led us but who now find themselves in critical financial need. We honor and celebrate emerging leaders like students in schools and colleges equipping communities of color, who develop leadership skills as they pursue their education and prepare to bring their gifts in service to the world God loves so much.
Jesus’ example as a child born to be among us and lead us to eternal life provides a pattern for us to follow as we celebrate those who have led us in the past and will lead us into the future. Through the Christmas Joy Offering, we come together to support past, present and future leaders, embodying God’s perfect gift to us, Jesus Christ.
If you are donating with a check, please put “Joy Offering” in the memo line.
-
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
It is our fervent prayer that this ministry is a blessing to the rest of our EPC family and beyond.
EPC prayer group
-
Missions:
Oasis:
• We have chosen the Oasis Center to be the recipient of our Christmas giving this year. We’ll sponsor 3 families and will be following Oasis’ suggestion of gifting a $25 Dominoes card, $25 Kroger card & a $25 Amazon card per family. Oasis will pick the families.
• Oasis has also provided us with a list of winter items that would be most appreciated (see below). Sue has decorated the collection box and it is set up in the sanctuary. These items will be delivered just before Thanksgiving. Share your blessings, as you are able, with those less fortunate.
Requested winter Items: (any size)
• Hats, beanies, gloves, hand & foot warmers, blankets, jackets, coats, long-sleeved t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, leggings, chap-stick, and fast-food gift cards.
• The assembly of the goody bags will be done as part of the regular service on Dec 17. The delivery will be December 20th.
• If you wish to contribute to this mission, submit your contribution with “Oasis Project” in the memo line.
Maple Village:
We will be delivering Christmas cookies on Dec 17. This is the day of the “Carols and Cookies” celebration after service so bring cookies to eat and cookies to share with our friends at Maple Village. Cookie delivery will take place when the fellowship time has ended.
Red Cross:
Volunteers needed – believe it or not, we are already planning for our annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We want to build on the last two years of successful Blood Drives and your help is needed. We are seeking volunteers 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 lend a hand, please contact Barb Halverstadt at 615-473-3510 or via email at epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
-
Finance:
If you are in the habit of making year-end charitable donations, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project—our year-round, multifaceted mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth.
• The Community Garden
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
2024 Generosity/Stewardship Campaign:
The deadline for submitting your 2024 Pledge Card was October 29, 2023. If you wish to pledge and have not yet done so, please make your submission by emailing it to epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or epcgenerosity@gmail.com
• Thanks to all who pledged to support EPC for the upcoming year!
• Thanks to all who give to support EPC, whether the giving is pledged or not!
• Thanks to the many who give above and beyond their pledge to support missions, our youth, and all the many things that EPC does with and for our community!
• Thanks to the many who give of their precious resources of time and energy to maintain and improve our worship, facilities, and programs!
• And a special thank you to Pastor Jane for her insightful and inspirational messages each week.
*2024 Budget will be presented to the congregation for a vote on Dec 17th
-
December 16: Saturday Advent Workshop with Dean Victor Judge on Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, 9-2 (RSVP to Jane for lunch).
Mark Sunday December 17 on your calendar as we share the holiday spirit with cookies and carols. Bring some to eat and some to share. We will be making our last 2023 visit to the residents of Maple Village as we deliver some Christmas Cookie cheer! The Caroling part of this event is a loosely based function of nibbling on cookies while we remember our favorite Christmas carols and sing loudly to spread the holiday spirit.
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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
-
December 10: Worship committee meeting after church
December 10: Second Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10am
December 13: Wednesday evening Blue Christmas Service of Hope and Healing, 6-7pm
December 16: Saturday Advent Workshop with Dean Victor Judge on Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, 9-2 (RSVP to Jane for lunch).
December 17: Third Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10 am
December 17: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
December 17: Assembly of Goody bags during worship service
December 17: Cookies and Carols after service, bring some to eat and some for Maple Village.
December 17: Cookie delivery to Maple Village
December 18: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
December 20: Wednesday evening contemplative Advent practice, 6-7 pm
December 24: Fourth Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, and Lessons and Carols, 10 am.
December 24: Sunday evening Candlelight Christmas Eve service of Christmas Readings and Song, 4:30 pm
December 25: Christmas morning (Monday) brief, contemplative service and lighting of the Christ candle on the Advent Wreath, 8-8:30am, coffee and breakfast items served at 8:40am
January 1: Happy New Year, 2024
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Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
-
Thrift (pink spring flowering ground-cover) is available to anyone who wants it.
It has been dug up and is on the ground under the tree by the front office window.
There is plenty, help yourself or your friend or your neighbor.
Orange Tiger lily (?) bulbs are also available.
Let Faith know this week if you are interested.
-
Presenting Your Slate of Elders
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music
November 29th, Newsletter
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• First reading
o Isaiah 64:1-9
• Psalm
o Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
• Second reading
o 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
• Gospel
o Mark 13:24-37
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Litergist’s Schedule:
The rest of 2023 is now covered, thanks to all who serve! We are now seeking liturgists for January 2024. If you wish to volunteer, please call 615-473-3510 or send an email to: epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
11.19 … Karen
11. 26 …Jan
12.3 … Ginia
12-10 … Barb
12.17 … Diana
12.24 ….. Darrell
12.31….. Sandra
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Joy offering:
: PC(USA) collects offering to help church's past, present and future leaders
LOUISVILLE
The Rev. Nikki Cooley and Sharon Connole-Key at First Presbyterian Church in Liberty, Missouri. —Photo courtesy Nikki Cooley
Helping our fellow humans improves the health, happiness and often the longevity of those who volunteer. However, the blessing can work both ways, as Sharon Connole-Key can attest as both a recipient of and donor to the Christmas Joy Offering.
“The experience of receiving generosity has empowered me to do for others,” Connole-Key says. Battling advanced thyroid cancer since 2001, she was facing the growing medical bills that come with treating long-term diseases. Like so many Americans, she didn’t know where to turn. “No one should have to choose between food and medicine.”
Sharon sought counsel from her pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Liberty, Missouri. “It is hard to ask for help,” says Connole-Key. Together they found help through the Board of Pensions matching grant and the Income Supplement and Housing Supplement programs, funded by the Christmas Joy Offering.
“This is more than a physical blessing, but a deeply spiritual one for me,” says Connole-Key. Retired after serving as a lay worker for 24 years, she considers her gift a blessing to be shared. “I believe in paying forward by giving and tithing to the Christmas Joy Offering to help someone else. It is truly a gift from God.
”If you are donating with a check, please put “Joy Offering” in the memo line
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Hebrews 5:7
7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
The whole reason why we pray is to be united into the vision and contemplation of God to whom we pray. - Julian of Norwich
You are invited…
The EPC prayer group is a small but dedicated group that meets on Wednesday evenings from roughly 6-7pm. It is a time to open your heart to offer God the praise and prayers of our congregation and those of your own. Barb sends out email requests for any prayers you would like lifted up in the belief that all prayers matter, all prayers are important and all prayers will be heard.
All prayers are kept confidential unless you specify otherwise.
If your request is private or sensitive, you may request that your prayer be limited to Pastor Jane and Barbara. Confirmation emails will be sent affirming that your request was lifted.
As a small church, offering praise and prayers for those who are struggling, no matter the reason, sends a powerful message about the love we share and express for each other. If you feel called to do so, come join us on Wednesday night at 6.
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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Missions:
Oasis:
• We have chosen the Oasis Center to be the recipient of our Christmas giving this year. We’ll sponsor 3 families and will be following Oasis’ suggestion of gifting a $25 Dominoes card, $25 Kroger card & a $25 Amazon card per family. Oasis will pick the families.
• Oasis has also provided us with a list of winter items that would be most appreciated (see below). Sue has decorated the collection box and it is set up in the sanctuary. These items will be delivered just before Thanksgiving. Share your blessings, as you are able, with those less fortunate.
Requested winter Items: (any size)
• Hats, beanies, gloves, hand & foot warmers, blankets, jackets, coats, long-sleeved t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, leggings, chap-stick, and fast-food gift cards.
• The assembly of the goody bags will be done as part of the regular service on Dec 17. The delivery will be December 20th.
• If you wish to contribute to this mission, submit your contribution with “Oasis Project” in the memo line.
Maple Village:
• Bring pies for delivery to Maple Village on or by November 19; they will be delivered on Monday November 20th
We need help please! We have deliveries scheduled on Monday November 20th to both Oasis (winter items, goody bags) and Maple Village (pies). If you are available that Monday (mid?) morning, we could sure use some extra hands. Coordinate with Barb, Ginia or Faith if you can help.
Red Cross:
Volunteers needed – believe it or not, we are already planning for our annual Blood Donation Drive to be held in May 2024. We want to build on the last two years of successful Blood Drives and your help is needed. We are seeking volunteers 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 lend a hand, please contact Barb Halverstadt at 615-473-3510 or via email at epcbusiness9770@gmail.com
-
Finance:
If you are in the habit of making year-end charitable donations, please consider giving to one of EPC’s ongoing missions:
• The Oasis project—our year-round, multifaceted mission to assist the Oasis Center with special needs as they arise and goody bags that are distributed to Nashville’s homeless youth.
• The Community Garden
• The Gateway to Higher Education Scholarship Fund
Financial Support:
If you are not able to attend worship service and still wish show your support for Emmanuel Presbyterian 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.
**We are currently having a problem with the online donation function. We hope to have it corrected as soon as possible. Any year-end donations should be made by mailing a check to the church or sending an online payment through your banking payment function.**
2024 Generosity/Stewardship Campaign:
The deadline for submitting your 2024 Pledge Card was October 29, 2023. If you wish to pledge and have not yet done so, please make your submission by emailing it to epcbusiness9770@gmail.com or epcgenerosity@gmail.com
• Thanks to all who pledged to support EPC for the upcoming year!
• Thanks to all who give to support EPC, whether the giving is pledged or not!
• Thanks to the many who give above and beyond their pledge to support missions, our youth, and all the many things that EPC does with and for our community!
• Thanks to the many who give of their precious resources of time and energy to maintain and improve our worship, facilities, and programs!
• And a special thank you to Pastor Jane for her insightful and inspirational messages each week.
*2024 Budget will be presented to the congregation for a vote on Dec 17th
-
• We enjoy snacks and fellowship each Sunday after service. If you are able to provide goodies at this time, you will be showered with virtual hugs and kisses, maybe even real ones! Check the sign-up sheet by the front door to see available dates.
• Sunday, December 3 we will have the opportunity to bond over some good natured fun while we come together to decorate our Christmas Tree. Plan to stay after church to get things set up “just right”!
• Also mark Sunday December 17 on your calendar as we share the holiday spirit with cookies and carols.
-
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
-
December 3 – December 24: Joy offering collections
December 3: Communion Sunday, First Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10 am
December 3: Stay and decorate the Christmas tree after service.
December 6: Wednesday evening contemplative Advent practice, 6-7 pm
December 10: Worship committee meeting after church
December 10: Second Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10am
December 13: Wednesday evening Blue Christmas Service of Hope and Healing, 6-7pm
December 16: Saturday Advent Workshop with Dean Victor Judge on Claire Keegan’s Small Things Like These, 9-2 (RSVP to Jane for lunch).
December 17: Third Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, 10 am
December 17: Fellowship/Mission/Congregational Care committee meeting, 9:30 am
December 17: Assembly of Goody bags during worship service
December 17: Cookies and Carols after service, bring some to eat and some for Maple Village.
December 17: Cookie delivery to Maple Village
December 18: Session meeting, 6:30 pm
December 20: Wednesday evening contemplative Advent practice, 6-7 pm
December 24: Fourth Sunday of Advent, Service of Worship and Lighting of the Advent Wreath, and Lessons and Carols, 10 am.
December 24: Sunday evening Candlelight Christmas Eve service of Christmas Readings and Song, 4:30 pm
December 25: Christmas morning (Monday) brief, contemplative service and lighting of the Christ candle on the Advent Wreath, 8-8:30am, coffee and breakfast items served at 8:40am
January 1: Happy New Year, 2024
-
Christian Education:
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.
-
Children’s Services:
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 also available for those under 3. We always have two adults with the children and their safety and education is our top priority.
-
Thrift (pink spring flowering ground-cover) is available to anyone who wants it.
It has been dug up and is on the ground under the tree by the front office window.
There is plenty, help yourself or your friend or your neighbor.
Orange Tiger lily (?) bulbs are also available.
Let Faith know this week if you are interested.
-
Presenting Your Slate of Elders
Class of 2023
Theresa Denton, Worship and Polity & Procedure
Jan Russell
Class of 2024
Ginia Wood, Fellowship and Mission
John Denton, Building and Grounds
Class of 2025
Greg Burlison, Personnel
John Sevier, Director of Music