Latest News of the Greater Nashville Church

More than 550 for SE Campus Retreat

2011-03-02T20:25:00.003-06:00

Read the exciting news and see photo at: http://sechurches.blogspot.com/

Important Announcements for Friday, February 4

2011-02-04T12:07:00.000-06:00

Women's Coffee Postponed --- due to the prediction for more snow on Saturday morning.

Life Group Leaders’ Meeting

There will be a Life Group Leaders’ Meeting Sunday, February 6, immediately after service. No meal will be served so families can attend Super Bowl parties.

Latino Luncheon

There will be a Latino Luncheon on Sunday, February 13, immediately following service in Café 138.

Food Pantry

Items currently needed in the food pantry are: pasta sauces, canned meats, crackers and juices.

Loving and Obeying Together

2011-01-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

The church began a new series on January 16 focused on this theme with all lessons coming from an expository treatment of 1 John. Tom Jones opened the series giving the background of 1 John and the keys to studying the book. Damien Charley then addressed "Fellowship with the Light," and on Sunday, January 23 Keith Davis will speak on "Walking in the Light." All messages are recorded and can be found by going to the audio tap on the front page and then to "Sermons."

Married Couples Enjoy a Great Night

2010-11-15T12:35:00.000-06:00

A special Marriage Night, hosted by Keith and Sharon Davis, was held on Saturday, November 13 at the Music City Sheraton. With the theme, "P.S. I Love You" as the theme Mark and Margaret Hodge shared from their lives, from Scripture and from Mark's counseling training to give the married couples great input for keeping their marriages strong. The word "intentional" is making its way into our church culture, and they emphasized how intentional we have to be about nourishing our relationships. A great dinner with music followed their message.

Sunday, November 21 in Life Groups

2010-11-15T12:30:00.000-06:00

Normally we meet in Life Groups on the fourth Sunday of the month, but this month we will be meeting in small groups on November 21. Then on November 28 we will have an all-church service at the Stardust.

Jerry Finishes the Race

2010-10-11T16:40:00.000-05:00

We are sad to announce the passing of our brother Jerry Capron on Sunday night after several weeks of illness. Jerry faced many challenges and ran courageously the race marked out for us. Sunday night he finished the race. A memorial service to honor Jerry's life and a time support Laurie and the family is being planned and will be announced soon.

Women’s Retreat: Being God’s Woman

2010-09-18T16:46:00.020-05:00

The retreat was an amazing time. Stay tuned for a full report

Beauty. Prayer and Tears in Ecuador

2010-09-17T07:51:00.006-05:00

Last weekend Robert and Yanet Galofre and Chris and Margaret Ziegler went to Quito, Ecuador, to meet Steve and Diane Brown and be with the church celebrating its fifteenth anniversary. Here is the report, first, from the Galofres.and then, the Zieglers. These are amazing and powerful stories. Don't miss the ending!

From the Galofres:

L to R: Yanet, Margaret, Diane, others

On Sunday we went to church and there were many people there. The church is about 150 people and for this special event (the 15th anniversary of the church) they rented a room that could hold 500 people...talk about having faith you say? The room was not only filled but there were people also outside the room and kids...there were so many kids (the church alone has over 90 kids). It was also great to see our brothers and sisters from Tennessee, Texas and other countries that were also there. It was so special to sing worship songs in Spanish and to try to translate not only the words but the heart of so much that was going on for our monolingual brothers there. (smiles)

The teens did two skits and performed a dance typical to Ecuador. Mario and Mireya who lead the church there sang a beautiful duo about our need for God (entailing without Him nothing matters). Steve Brown (or Esteban as he is known in South America) did an inspirational job preaching about how God could use each person if we are willing. At the end of service a sheet was collected from the people visiting who expressed their interest in studying the Bible and 80 people signed up!

When we got back to the home we stayed at we got a taste of Russia because the family we stayed with prepared a dinner typical of their home. It was amazing to see this couple who gave up their comfortable life, language, customs, family, comfort to move from Russia to Quito with two young girls (Gabi 4, Sati 7). It was a priviledge to stay with them and to share our hearts and dreams with one another. Most of the time when we rode together in a car you could hear Russian, Spanish and English being spoken in three different conversations

On Monday we went to the church building for a meeting in a yellow Taxi. It was so cool (according to Jacob since this was the first time he’s ever taken a taxi). Steve did a class at the meeting about the Holy Spirit that was great! Various disciples from the different churches shared great news (we'll have to leave that for another email so that this one does not get too long). We had lunch together and got to have another taste of Quito.

On Tuesday we went to the middle of the world! This is the place where people long ago thought that the equator line ran through. We took pictures with our bodies being in the South, North and middle of the Earth! After that we went to a place called Sitio Intiñan where GPS technology determined that the actual equator line runs through.

Wednesday morning we said goodbye or PAKA to our friends from Russia in Ecuador. This was a priceless experience. Now this weekend leads us to a new adventure in Birmingham where Robert is speaking. Please pray for us (as we unpack and repack) that God will use us powerfully to continue to encourage others as we continue to be encouraged by God and His church.
Robert, Yanet, Jacob and Sarah Galofre

From Margaret Ziegler

It took a lot for me to leave my mama and my babies, but I spent a lot of time making a daily schedule for them and arranging all of their transportation plans to school and activities. Planning and getting food for every meal and every snack. I didn’t realize how good it was going to feel jetting off with my sweetie. We had so much fun talking, laughing, reading and sleeping as we traveled all day.

It’s funny, when you fly over the states, everything is in order, you see streets, highways, rows of houses, and green space. In Quito, it looked like a bowl of salt and pepper. Every building is right up next to another building and the only green space you see is on the mountains or forest areas.

We were met at the airport by Julio and Beatrice a couple who kept Chris on his first trip to Quito. They loved Chris for five years and it felt like they had loved me the same amount of time. They were so happy that we were there. They live in a very nice house with several floors but it is not filled with stuff, just things that are necessary, hmmm.

Chris and Margaret in Andean beauty

They give us their bedroom, they fed us a delicious dinner (I was praying to God that I would be able to eat whatever she cooked for us) and we sat and talked for hours. Well, they talked for hours, I was in awe. Chris was incredible at speaking Spanish. They couldn’t speak any English; I was truly impressed with Big Poppa.

The church has 150 members and it looked like they were all there with their kids at a gathering on Saturday. We were greeted with hugs and kisses, hugs and kisses and hugs and kisses (at least three sets per each person who greeted you). They were so happy to see us, their brother and sister from America, it was a huge deal for them that we were there (for us too!)

There were two sisters who spoke English who I was immediately connected to, Veronica (single) and Kathy (married with two beautiful little girls). Veronica translated for me and Kathy told me that she would take me shopping.

Then I saw Armando, a brother who had stayed with us two years ago when he came to the states for some training. Armando was like family by the time he left our house. Zach and Meg cried when he left. So it was like a dream to see him again and to be where he lived this time. We meet Sophia, his fiancée, who he had told us all about when he had stayed with us. They are getting married in December.

After a time of fellowship, Flavio, who leads the Columbia Bogota Church, did a lesson for the men and woman. Then we split up and Diane Brown, taught a less on to the sisters. I shared about my life with the help of a translator—not as easy as it looks.

We had a big cookout with two roasted pigs that were longer than me! We also had birthday cake and we sang happy birthday to the church. Mario and Mireya Gomez lead the church. Mireya has inoperable colon cancer. When I was asked to go to Quito, I thought, I’ll stay with Mireya so that everyone else can go to all the events. I thought she would be at home in bed or in the hospital and here she was at the picnic smiling, hugging, giving, talking, singing. Our elders had flown down and had prayed for her in May(the weekend of the flood). She was one of the most beautiful women I had ever seen. Someone told me that she had lost a lot of weight but I couldn’t tell. They also told me that she had completed chemo or radiation and would learn the results this week. I couldn’t get over her, I couldn’t keep my eyes off her, she had impacted my life to the core. For the next two days that I was there, she was at everything that I went to

Sunday. The church service was at a very nice facility that they rented with 500 seats. People were standing around the walls. It was a love bomb, kisses and hugs, but now I was remembering faces. One sister, Elizabeth gave me a gift package of delicious candy and she had written a scripture for me out of an English bible, “Be strong, and let us be courageous for our people and for the cities of our God; and may the Lord do what seems good to Him.” 1 Chronicles 19:130.

Robert and Yanet Galofre arrived the night before (also from Nashville); they are fluent in Spanish and English. It was great having her to walk around with me to talk to people. I was also with Diane; she translates the service to me. I connected with another sister who speaks English and talked for a while and exchange email addresses.

The service was great, the teen ministry performed two skits on good vs. evil, and Jesus was the victor. There was also a cultural dance. There were many congregational songs and then Mario and Mireya came on stage and sang a song together. My heart was in my throat, so many things were going on in my mind, I couldn’t believe this woman’s life, she is singing with all her heart. I think about all my complaints, my petty issues and struggles…

Steve Brown preached. He continuously travels to our South America churches and tends to them. When he goes, he comes back and brings pictures of the brothers and sisters and tells us stories about them. He loves them all so much and they adore him. As Steve started talking, he shared how happy he was to be back with everyone, and that the last time he was there Mireya was in the hospital. He then did something that I had never seen him do before in the eight years I have known him-- he wept so hard that he turned around from the audience and bent double. I can’t even explain to you what took place in my heart and then Mireya came on stage and hugged him. I know that I was seeing this for a reason, God doesn’t just do things.

After church was much great fellowship. Eighty visitors filled out cards saying that they wanted to personal study the Bible with the members.

Monday. The church leaders from Venezuela, Columbia, and Peru along the Gomezes began their conference. When Steve shared, he said that it was a dream for him that Chris and I would be there together. Another wow. I later asked him why me? (I could understand Chris) He said that he knew it would be encouraging for the brothers and sisters for me to be there too. This was all too big for me but I’ll tell you, I loved every minute of it.

Before we left with Armando, I gather the sisters and we took a picture. We are saying our goodbyes, (we leave the next morning and won’t see them again). As everybody was hugging and kissing us Mireya hugged me and didn’t let go. I told her how beautiful she is and she looked into my eyes and says “pray for me.”

It is so hard to understand some things, but I trust God.

Now that we are bac in the U.S., we are so in awe of the whole experience, so grateful to get home safely to our precious children, and so grateful my mom and dad were fine. So, today with the kids, I was a little more patience, a little more giving, a little more graceful. I think my heart grew a little bit bigger because of the lives in South America who touched it.

P.S. I just talked to Steve and got the report from Mireya’s doctor’s appointment yesterday: The tumor has reduced in size by 60% and her blood work looks good!! They are going to continue with the treatments. Thank you, Father!!! Please continue to pray for her like she asked, it is powerful.

Auto Needed

2010-09-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

One of our campus ministry interns is in need of a car to use in the ministry. If anyone has one that can be used, please contact Tim Kidwell at twkidwell@yahoo.com.

Kingdom Thoughts Twice a Week

2010-08-30T14:54:00.001-05:00

As we prepare for the fall series "On Earth as It Is in Heaven," Tom Jones will be doing two Mind Change Moments per week (one of Monday and one on Thursday) on the theme of the new book Tom and Steve have finished. This book--THE KINGDOM OF GOD--VOLUME ONE: THE FUTURE BREAKS IN --is recommended reading for this fall during this series.
Books can be preordered for $8 until Sunday, September 5 at the book table,The book will be released on September 20, but you can read or hear Tom's short messages now on this theme by going to http://mindchangeonline.blogspot.com/.

"We Speak Jesus Here"

2010-08-29T19:19:00.006-05:00

There has been a phrase being repeated by many in the Greater Nashville Church this week. On Sunday, August 22, Christina and Damien had several of our children on stage to say something about their Bible classes.
Jacob Galofre, 5, took the mic and said, "In our class we sing Jesus Loves Me because we speak Jesus here." There was an audible gasp of appreciation in the auditorium. Out of the mouth of babes! Jacob nailed it. That is exactly what we want to do: Speak Jesus Around Here! (Jacob is the son of Robert and Yanet Galofre and you can see the video his dad shot by clicking here to go to YouTube. Jacob's comment is at the 3:54 mark.

Pizza Perfect Church

2010-08-29T17:40:00.003-05:00

This report received from Bethany Jones: In my twenty years as a disciple of Jesus, I have been to church services in houses, in parks, and even in basketball arenas, but this past Sunday I had church in a pizza parlor for the first time.

Bethany

Spurred on by an idea from Margaret Hodge, the West Nashville/Bellevue life group had church at Pizza Perfect before they opened their doors to the public at 11 a.m. We had a great time of singing, praying and an interactive message given by Mark Hodge.

With a number of visitors present, after the service, everyone stayed to enjoy pizza and fellowship and the last people left at 1:30 p.m. Instead of meeting at someone's house, it was great to be in our community worshipping God in a creative way. We could certainly recommend this idea to other life groups.

Our Love to Stacey White and Her Family

2010-08-28T22:45:00.000-05:00

From Damien: We are sad to announce the passing of Stacey White's mother, JoAnn Bearden. She passed away Wednesday night at Summit Hospital. Our hearts and prayers are with Stacey, Kelly, Seth and the entire family during this difficult time. Services were held on Saturday. The family is requesting donations instead of flowers to help with the burial expense.The Fund is set up with Regions Bank: 4444 Lebanon Rd (Donelson) Nashville, TN 37122 in the name of Joanne Bearden. The family thanks everyone for the love and support during sad time.

PARENTING WORKSHOP

2010-08-28T07:56:00.000-05:00

The time for the Parenting Workshop on September 11 has been changed. The new time is 3:00PM to 5:30. Please be sure this is shared in the Life Groups on Sunday.

Two New Campus Ministry Interns Announced

2010-08-25T23:23:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday night, August 24, Tim Kidwell, campus evangelist, announced to the church the appointment of Johnny Grant and Nick Lombardi as campus ministry interns.Johnny, a student at Tennessee State, will coordinate the ministry to the different downtown campuses and Nick, a student at Middle Tennessee State, will coordinate the work on that campus with the largest undergraduate enrollment in the state.

Deeper Study: New Heaven and New Earth

2010-08-07T16:51:00.007-05:00

On Sunday Tom's message was on this topic. Copies of a guide to more study were available. If you did not get one, you can download a copy CLICK HERE.

Caracas Excitement

2010-07-29T10:21:00.000-05:00

This report by Robert Galofre. Robert and Yanet (pronounced Janet for us), moved here recently from Portland, Oregon, to be involved in our outreach to South America. They originally planted the church in Caracas in Robert's home country.

Edilberto and Nayiber from Caracas have some good news they want to share with the church here.

After their family waited in Bogota for VISAS for about a year to go live in Venezuela they have now been in Caracas for about 5 weeks.

The church prayed for them and fought to focus their eyes on Jesus when they were waiting for the leaders God had chosen to arrive. They have been so grateful to have them there and for all they have already learned with them there.

Here is one of the many stories that Edilberto was able to share with us about how God has been moving in the hearts of the people in Venezuela and the church.

Edilberto and Nayiber were on their way to a study (train and bus ride to get there) there was a woman who got the news that her home had been broken into. She'd been robbed of a substantial amount of money. Edilberto and Nayiber followed the woman and asked if they could pray with her and also got her contact information. The woman started to study the bible and two Sundays ago she came to church because Edilberto wanted to have the church give money to help her due to her situation. The church of close to 50 disciples was able to collect the highest benevolence amount in the history of the church. The disciples in Caracas are not wealthy but they were moved to give generously by this woman's situation. The woman (Gina) was blown away by the hearts and benevolence of the church. She went home and told her family about it and next Sunday they will travel to Caracas all together to come to church.

Robert's sister who had become a disciple but left the church many years ago as a single woman is now married and about two weeks ago Edilberto and Nayiber started to study the bible with her (Isabel) and her husband (Jose). They have set up to study every two weeks for now. Isabel spoke to Robert about how grateful she is for the help and the bible. Aura (Robert's mom) who is a disciple is super grateful for the love of Edilberto and Nayiber and for their sacrifice to travel the two hours that it takes to get to the city where her daughter lives.

Edilberto wanted to share that the church currently has about 20 studies both within Caracas and beyond. God is doing amazing things and Edilberto asks for our prayers as they continue to work on the harvest for the Lord.

--
Robert Galofre

New Web Presence for Southeast Churches

2010-07-17T11:27:00.001-05:00

Thirty churches across North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee are working cooperatively to built unity and spread kingdom-focused discipleship across these states. A new Web site will keep churches informed of great ways God is working and ways that needs can be met. Visit: http://sechurches.blogspot.com/.

Toy Story 2 -- Nashville Style

2010-06-29T11:38:00.004-05:00

After the Nashville flood, Renee Henry and her husband John, from the San Diego church, brought a trailer load of toys and food across country for us to distribute to flood victims. After unloading their trailer, they went on to Virginia to be with several churches there. This past Sunday, they met Renee’s sister,

Holly, and others and unloaded another trailer load from the churches there! Our cup overflows. This kind of love from brothers and sisters from coast to coast is tremendously encouraging. Our thanks to Renee and John for their great hearts! Let us pray for effective means of distributing these things to those in need. That effort is being led by the Spring Hill Life Group led by Sean and Erin Seay. Holly Schabacker, Renee’s sister, is in that group and playing a key role.

'Cos I'm goin' to Jackson

2010-06-28T13:36:00.000-05:00

Sidney Dockery must have had this Johnny Cash song on his mind for a while. He and his family just moved from Columbia, SC, to Jackson, MS, for the sole purpose of pulling disciples from our fellowship back together and spreading the good news of the Kingdom.

This last Wednesday night the group met for the first time in five years for a mid-week. Sidney reports an air of great excitement and an eagerness to connect with Nashville and see the work flourish. Sidney is currently looking for work so we ask all to be in prayer about that. This news brought great encouragement to Clayton and Renee Parham and others who origianlly went to Jackson with Keith and Sharon Davis. Pray for Jackson

Many Items Needed

2010-06-23T22:42:00.001-05:00

Margaret Zegler is still at work now seeking to help Mrs. Jenkins in Franklin furnish her home after all was lost in the flood. Many will recall that at Mr. Jenkins passed away not long after the destruction of their home. Here is the list of items that are currently needed. If you can help contact Margaret at momssigncompany@gmail.com .

Bedroom

Mattress covers (twin & queen)

Bed spreads (twin & queen)

Sheets (twin)

Blankets (twin & queen)

One dresser

One Lamp for bedroom

Pillows for beds (twin & queen)

Wall pictures

Bathroom

Towels & bath clothes

Toilet seat cover & rug set

Toiletries (soap, lotion, tooth paste, etc.)

Living room

Two sitting chairs (brown leather couch was donated)

Tv stand

Side tables

Lamps

Coffee table

Wall hangings (art, mirrors, etc.)

Table picture frames

Kitchen

Pots & pans

Baking dishes

Silver ware

Dish towels

Clock

Microwave

Staples

Other Wishes

Rocking Chairs for porch

Outside furniture

Final Day of the Retreat

2010-06-16T09:43:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday Tom Jones announced the launching of a new Web presence for the SE Churches. The address will be made public soon.

The morning message was given by Don Burroughs, evangelist in Savannah, GA, and a licensed counselor. He spoke on the importance of helping the weak, the timid and the idle. He put great emphasis on the need for leaders to become great listeners.
The final message was by Jeff Hickman, co-evangelist from the North River congregation in Marietta. Speaking on the retreat theme, "Pass It On," Jeff emphasized pouring ourselves out for people, especially new disciples. His final charge was for all churches to realize what an incredible resource our single disciples are and to give as much emphasis to this ministry as to the others we have convictions about. He announced a meeting for single leaders in Marietta September 10.

Churches who are have affirmed the cooperation agreement selected JP Tynes, Scott Kirkpatrick, and Damien Charley to be the three delegates from the Southeast at this year's ILC in Miami.

At one point in the retreat, Kevin Thompson from Athens led the song "There's a Sweet Sweet Spirit in this Place." That sums up the retreat in Black Mountain. There is a sweet spirit flowing through the churches of the Southeast. We are in a great family.

Day 2 in North Carolina

2010-06-14T21:39:00.001-05:00

At the morning session of the Southeast Leaders Retreat Tim Kidwell and Damien Charley presented a slide show about the Nashville Flood and told other churches how they could be involved in assisting our relief efforts.

The Athens Church presented plans to host the 2011 International Campus Ministry Conference for the Eastern U.S. The tentative date is the week of July 7.

The Athens Church shared about their work in Kingston, Jamaica (see yesterday's report) and Tim from Nashville presented a slide show on the work in South America supported by Mid-South Churches and by Louisville. A brother from Durbin, South Africa, shared about the support of the Fayetteville NC church and the great relationship the two churches have built.

The afternoon sessions were divided into groups for elders & teachers, evangelists, and women's leaders. At the evening session Tom Jones and Sam Laing both addressed the importance of the leader's persoanal walk with God.

The night ended with the selection of delegates from the Southeast for the upcoming meeting in Miami in September of all delegates from churches pledged to cooperation.,

Leaders Meeting in North Carolina

2010-06-13T22:30:00.001-05:00

Barry and Debbie Holt, Tim and Brooke Kidwell, Tom and Sheila Jones, Keith Davis and Damien Charley are in Black Mountain, North Carolina, outside Asheville to attend the Southeast Leaders Retreat with the theme, "Pass it On." On Sunday night there was an extended period of fellowship, then time of worship and prayer before news from around the southeast was shared, including the following:

1. The North River Church had 125 campus students attend their two-week intern program (including three from Nashville.)
2. In one year the new planting at Clemson led by Jarrod and Staci Robinson, formerly in Birmingham, has seen the number of students in their campus ministry grow from 1 to the 27 they will have this fall.
3. 40 teens are going from the Athens Church to conduct a camp for kids in the churches in Jamaica.
4. The Fayetteville, NC, church with a little more than 100 members gave $93,000 today for their special missions contribution!
5.Several churches reported starting new Hispanic ministries.
6. Damien reported from Nashville on the efforts that have been made to reach out to our city in the aftermath of the flood.
Check back tomorrow for more updates.

Volunteers Needed

2010-06-11T23:39:00.000-05:00

Volunteers are needed to help flood victims. Most have been displaced now for 45 plus days. Much is needed to get people back in their homes. Please contact Keith Davis at 473-3294 or Damien Charley at 300-1499 if you can help, and check this site later for more detailed information on what is needed.

Bogota Trip

2010-06-11T23:36:00.000-05:00

Please pray for the following members who have traveled with Steve Brown to Bogota June 10 - 16 to serve at the HOPE clinic: Amie Bates, TimothyBeach, Julie Bellamy, Keely Price, Scott Price, Tyler Moser, Angie Turner and Kaylee Turner.

Generous Gift for Flood Relief

2010-06-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

A check for $3,000 was delivered on Sunday to the Greater Nashville Church by J.J. and Janet Overstreet, representing a collection from disciples in the San Diego area who are part of the Torrey Pines Fellowship. This money will be placed in the flood relief fund and used to help those who are rebuilding their homes and their lives. We are grateful for these Christians and others in other cities who are giving generously so that we might help those who have suffered loss.

What the People Said

2010-06-06T18:50:00.004-05:00

This morning before the message Tom asked everyone to write down one thing others do that make them feel supported and one thing others do that strengthens them. The cards were collected and some were read at the end of the message.

Under supporting, the most frequent response by far was “listening to me,” which was the first point in the sermon and fitting with the links on the previous post. ‘Calling me” and “checking on me” was the next most frequent response. “Praying with me” showed up often on both lists, very often. Acts of service and kindness, words of affirmation, affection, hugs were frequently mentioned as those things that make people feel supported.

Under strengthening, the leading response was “praying with me.” But not far behind was sharing Scripture and giving spiritual advice. Several mentioned things like “discipling me,” “challenging me,’ but answers like “affirming me” or complimenting me” were also given

It is clear that supporting and strengthening each other is crucial to spiritual growth and victories. It is also clear that doing this is not complicated. We can all be used by God in each others’ lives.

As followers of Jesus, we must not wait for others to meet our needs. We must give. But if we all do that , own needs will be met. God blesses those who give.

Developing Your Listening Skill

2010-06-06T00:17:00.002-05:00

Sunday morning in the message on "Supporting and Strengthening," (part of our "Fellowship that Changes Us" series), Tom talked about how important it is that we develop the skill of good listening. He mentioned that we would post some Web sites that would make good reading.

There are dozens of such sites, but here are two that contain practical information:
http://stress.about.com/od/relationships/ht/howtolisten.htm

http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/ActiveListening.htm

Other sites address this issue from an even more Biblical point of view. Here are two of those:

http://mintools.com/listening-skills.htm

http://christian-lifeskills.net/xnlistening.htm

Franklin Flood Victim Dies

2010-06-03T13:12:00.000-05:00

It was reported here shortly after the flood that Margaret Zegler and Melanie Flippin had located a family in Franklin in great need. Mr. Lee Jenkins and his wife had lost the home they had been in for many years. Margaret and Melanie began taking water and ice and other items and talked with Kelly White about the needs in the house; Kelly, Staci and others worked to clear the house out on Saturday, May 8. The Jenkins' adult daughters were most grateful. But then the city of Franklin made the decision that it could not be rebuilt.

Last week the Jenkins made the winning bid at at the auction of another home. As they looked forward to getting back into their own place, Margaret and another friend began planning to find the items needed to furnish the new place. However, on the evening on June 2, Mr. Jenkins died of a heart attack. Margaret and her son, Zack, took a cake to the family and Mike and Melanie brought other food for them.

Margaret and Melanie will continue to monitor the ways we can help this family. Christian compassion has already made a difference and will continue to do so.

Toy Drive Suspended for Now

2010-05-25T22:14:00.001-05:00

At the present time it appears we may have enough toys to meet the needs we have identified. If it become clear that more are needed, you will hear it here. Thanks to all who generously responded. Click on "This Sunday" tab above to see continuing needs.

Pennington Bend

2010-05-22T21:36:00.000-05:00

John Slate and Tom Jone led a team of people who spent several hours in the Pennington Bend area today visiting with owners who had returned to work on their property. Information on recovery and meeting the needs of children during recovery were distributed and notes were made on existing needs. Many homes were not open

Another team led by Sonny Sharp worked for a number of hours on the home of Danielle and Rob Young who were just married Friday night.

TOY STORY -- Nashville: Help Needed!

2010-05-20T06:44:00.002-05:00

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has a handout called "Helping Children after a Flood." On the list is this item: Replace lost or damaged toys and children's books as soon as you are able. The Greater Nashville Church was already asking for donations of new or gently used toys when we received a call from a Donelson church. Churches in our area are working together to meet different needs, so that one might specialize in food and another in clothing, etc. They asked if we would like to take a need, and we said they could make us the toy and book replacement specialists.

Holly Schabacker and her daughter Catlin had already begun a toy drive in Spring Hill, and she agreed to serve as the director of our churchwide effort. Amazingly her sister Renee and Renee's husband John will arrive on Saturday with a trailer load of new toys donated by the San Diego Church and others from that area.

But there will still be a need for more. So we are asking those of you in the Nashville church to bring toys this Sunday and get the word out to others in your neighborhoods. Our campus students will be set up again this Sunday to receive toy and book donations, along with food for the food pantry.

Holly and a committee she will work with will soon be proposing methods of distribution. Let's be praying that this will become God's Toy Story and open the door to many hearts.

Help from Sister Congregations

2010-05-17T17:57:00.002-05:00

In the wake of the flood, other congregations have asked if they can help in any way. A check arrived today from the Las Vegas Church (Thank you, Vegas).

We are seeing more and more the magnitude of the losses here and the cost of displacement and recovery. Any love offerings sent to the Greater Nashville Church will be used to assist many that we will be helping in coming days and weeks.

Such offerings are more than appreciated. They are needed. FEMA came in quickly. The SBA is offering loans, but for most this will leave them still with heavy losses; We appreciate the consideration other churches are giving to taking a special collection. Checks to the Greater Nashville Church can be sent to 2416 Music Valley Drive, Suite 135, Nashville TN 37214. The memo line should say "Flood Relief."

Another Great Report

2010-05-17T10:51:00.003-05:00

See one sister's comment on the difference disciples made.........My friend Carolyn (not her real name) has no children and no family in Nashville. She lives in a big house in North Nashville. She is over 60 and probably won't be sending thanks online. Carolyn's house flooded in several parts. The rest of it sustained water under it so all of the damage is not known yet.

She was frantic and apprehensive when I showed up with 6 disciples on Mother's Day to begin the clean-up and Eddie Wiseman and Al told her that it all had to go(speaking of her water-soaked furnishings).Neither she nor I realized the shock she was still experiencing. Family had come from Memphis to help her. They were immediately grateful and relieved to see someone come to her aid.

As the afternoon progressed and a FEMA representative arrived, we were able to begin moving the thee full rooms, a garage and a shed all full of furniture. By Wednesday, three life Groups: Slates, Pettigrew and Wiseman had completely gutted three rooms and began a loving and supportive relationship with a needy devastated widow who in her words, had never seen such a hardworking dedicated group of people.

We have a long way to go with Carolyn, but I want to thank the many members and Eddie Wiseman for his initiative in organizing a group on Mother's Day and for my husband, Al who gives and supports cosistently. There are still a lot of needs, but please pray for Carolyn to see God in this crisis and that He is continuously glorified as we serve.I am grateful to God for the family he has placed us in...amazing willing and loving believers.

45-day Prayer and Fasting Chain Coming to a Close

2010-05-16T23:00:00.001-05:00

We are rejoicing that Michelle Anderson was restored to her relationship with God and the church on Sunday after being away
for five years. Let's continue to pray for others that are close to a decision to follow Jesus. Those helping us end our 45-day prayer and fasting chain are:

17 -- Troy and Holly Schabacker; Karen Vega-Luna
18 -- Bruce Mackie; Joyce Bulter
19 -- John and Cendie Sadler

Pray that God will make it clear what shape our efforts should take in Phase Two of the Flood Relief. Pray for Eric Omlor and his brain surgery this week.

Life Group Leaders Get Directions for Next Phase

2010-05-16T15:33:00.001-05:00

After services today Damien met with the Life Group Leaders and with work team leaders for flood relief. With most houses cleaned and out and debris and damaged items out to the curbs, it is time to think about the next phase of helping people.

With the help of Sonny Sharp, Damien trained our LGLs who can in turn train their members to go ino the neighborhoods and conduct surveys that will help us know what additional insurance or FEMA help they need, determine other needs while at the same time enable us to share spiritual truths with people and pray with them. Life Group members will be hearing more this week in their groups. Continue to post any needs you are aware of on this site.

Warn those we are helping about scams

2010-05-14T10:56:00.003-05:00

Keith Morrow submitted this important information found on Channel 5 website.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - When a natural disaster hits, scam artists are often on the prowl. "They prey on the emotions of people who want to put the situation behind them as quickly as possible," said Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance spokesman Christopher Garrett.

Officials want flood victims to know con artists or unlicensed contractors may try to win their business.

Homeowners should not let contractors pressure them into making a decision.

"[Homeowners] should remember that they are in the driver seat as a consumer," said Garrett.

State officials said consumers should follow a checklist when hiring a contractor. This includes hiring only a licensed contractor, knowing the contractor's work history, making sure the contractor has proof of insurance and getting a written contractor. Homeowners should also never pay in cash and never pay for the full job up front.

There is also a message to scam artists. "The state is saying we're doing everything we can to make sure people make informed decisions," said Garrett.

Homeowners can check with the Department of Commerce and Insurance to verify a contractor's past at http://verify.tn.gov (615) 741-8307 or contact: Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee: http://nashville.bbb.org/ (615) 250-4222

Christians from San Diego Bringing Load of Toys to Tennessee!!

2010-05-13T20:49:00.001-05:00

A Christian in San Diego heard from her sister in Tennessee (Holly Schabacker) that the Greater Nashville Church was going to gather toys for kids who had lost everything in the flood. Read what she wrote to friends in San Diego:

"Our family leaves California for Quantico, VA on Monday and will be filling a trailer to pull behind our vehicle and deliver to the church building [in Nashville] for these victims. We are asking for any gently used toys that we can give to these families. We will also take any non-perishable food we can collect as well.

"We will be on the [Marine] base Friday afternoon, Saturday we have a yard sale and Sunday we will be at church. Let us know if you can meet us at any of these times or we can pick up.We will also take another load from the friends in VA and NC on my way back through TN at the end of June. So we can organize a time to get the collection together when we get there. Thanks so much!!! Love, The Henry Family"

All we know to say is "Wow, Praise God. What hearts!"

You Go, Kids!

2010-05-12T21:29:00.006-05:00

A 5, 6, and 7-year-old asks their mothers if they could sell lemonade to earn money to give to victims of the flooding. Living in Spring Hill where many residents are not that aware of the damage in Nashville, they set up their stand late Wednesday afternoon with only a hour to be open. In that one hour Canaan Schabacker, Kennedy Grubb, and Chloe Seay made $72 to help the cause; As you can imagine, they were fired up. After we posted this, Carla Grubb added a comment that is too good not to feature right here.

Carla Grubb said...

I want to share just a little more about how inspiring this lemonade stand was.

I watched the kids too little to be by the road while Erin Seay was running the lemonade stand with the 3 bigger kids. Partway through the sale, I took the little ones in a double stroller up to watch their older sisters sell lemonade. It was AMAZING! I have never seen a lemonade stand like this. They were set up at a stop sign and so the cars had to stop, then the kids would run near the car and shout "Lemonade for flood victims!" and hold up their posterboards. (Erin and her daughter Chloe are both hoarse this morning from how much and how loud they shouted!) Kennedy would run up with a jar full of cash and people in the cars would pull out money, then pull onto the side street where the kids would pour cups of lemonade and take it to their cars. It was a drive-thru lemonade stand!

Some neighbors came walking by and their kids wanted to help, too, so many other kids got to join in the fun. Even my 20-month-old was saying "Wa-wa" and getting cups of lemonade to hand out. The kids probably poured about 40 cups of lemonade in the one hour they were there.

The neatest thing about this was that Erin Seay just had the idea 3 hours before our family group was set to meet. The kids had been asking to do a lemonade stand and she thought, "What better to do with the money than this?" Erin told me today that she had been feeling that she wanted to do something to help with flood victims, and to get the kids involved, but she didn't know what to do, because when you have little kids at home, it is very challenging to go and join the clean-up efforts (I've been feeling the same way myself). Erin's heart to throw this together in a matter of hours and for the kids to see how God can work inspires me.

On the way home last night I asked Kennedy, "Do you know how much money a lemonade stand usually makes?" She said, "Yeah, about 2 or 3 dollars." I said, "That's right. Only GOD can make a lemonade stand make $72 in an hour!!"

Food Items to Bring

2010-05-12T00:16:00.000-05:00

With many people displaced, out of work, or experiencing new expenses because of flooding, there will be a greater need for food. This Sunday please bring any of the following items for our food pantry:
Canned vegetables
Canned fruits
Canned meats (tuna, chicken, salmon)
Canned meals (soup, chili, stew)
Canned or dried beans and peas (black, pinto, lentils)
Cooking oil
Pasta, rice, cereal
Peanut Butter

Cans that are rusting or have been exposed to flood waters must not be brought.

Comments from Those Served

2010-05-11T12:58:00.003-05:00

Disciples in the Greater Nashville Church have helped many others outside our fellowship. Some of the comments they have made:

Where have these people been all my life?
When this is over, I want to throw a Barbecue for your church.
I want to make a large donation to your congregation.
We are definitely going to be visiting your church.
Your people are willing to do the dirtiest and hardest work like crawling in the mud under the house to get out insulation. We thought we would have to pay for that.
Beside the hard work, we are amazed at the attitudes people have. Even as we look at our mess, you almost make it enjoyable
If I were an employer, I would definitely hire these guys!.

And Jesus said, "You are the light of the world and the salt of the earth."

Several Updates

2010-05-10T13:42:00.004-05:00

Mold
See the CDC Web site for the need to wear masks when cleaning up where there is mold.Another caution: do not take children into clean-up work sites.
Relief Fund
Contributions to the Flood Relief Fund now total $8,145. A $1,000 came in from a former member.
Margaret and Melanie in Franklin
The elderly gentlemen's house was completely emptied on Saturday. (Thanks Kelly, Stacey, Andrea, Diane and others). Now Margaret and Melanie are looking for furniture that can be used, once repairs are made. Comment here if you can help.
Opportunity to Serve Right Now
Maretha Burkely sent in the following from her officeThe Company I work for, Earthsavers LLC.
(www.earthsavers.org) is running a flood relief route all this week to go around and collect the piles that people are placing outside of their homes. This is a much needed service as the piles are a danger to children that want to play in them as they showed on the news last night, and they also need to be removed for other obvious reasons. I know the city is going to be working to remove these piles too, but we have decided to join them in this endeavor as it is a great one and they could use our assistance. Our need is for more strong hands to run on the trucks.

That being said, if there is anyone who is interested in serving in this way please contact me at office@earthsavers.org . Thanks, love you guys…. Maretha Burkley--- burkleym@bellsouth.net

Interview with Keith Davis from Sunday Service

2010-05-10T12:22:00.000-05:00

The interview Tom conducted with Keith on Sunday morning has been posted on our Website:
Click here.

An Article We May Need

2010-05-10T09:02:00.001-05:00

We are just getting started in our efforts to help our brothers and sisters and neighbors, but eventually we may need this article on what to do counteract volunteer fatigue. If you still need to get involved this one is not for you. http://www.chriscrimmins.com/ (May 8 entry).

Special Offerings in Nashville and Las Vegas

2010-05-09T18:45:00.002-05:00

In addition to our regular contribution today which was for two weeks, the church gave more than $7,000 for victims of the flood. Frank Williams called from Las Vegas to say that $1,900 was given there this morning and that more may be given. We are grateful for this generosity as we seek to meet needs of those in and outside the fellowship.

The interview with Keith Davis concerning the impact on people's hearts of this devastation will soon be posted on our main Website.

Other Ways to Help

2010-05-09T18:42:00.000-05:00

Nicki Brooks sent in these ideas:

HOW TO HELP:

*www.hon.org or call 211 (HON is Hands on Nashville)

*website for people to help people who have items to donate to find people who are in need: http://geniuscog.com

*drop off bottled water, clothing, cleaning supplies to Christ Church 15354 Old Hickory Blvd. Volunteers are needed to deliver items. call 834-6171

*community groups across town started volunteer efforts and fund raisers, www.tennessean.com/floodhelp

*donate to Second Harvest Food Bank

*First Tennesse Bank is matching dollar for dollar donations

*financial donations at www.cfmt.org

*Kroger collecting food and cash

*Wilson County Chamber of Commerce is coord volunteer cleanup effort. To offer help, call 444-5503

May 9, 2010 3:43 PM

How Bad?

2010-05-08T19:43:00.002-05:00

How bad was the Flood of 2010 in Nashville? Here is the comment from one of the country's most respected newspapers:

“The deadly flood that soaked Nashville may become the worst disaster to hit the state since the Civil War, and one of the worst non-hurricane disasters in US history.” --Christian Science Monitor, May 8, 2010

Margaret & Melanie: Report from Franklin

2010-05-08T08:34:00.001-05:00

Margaret Zigler has shared her journal with us from the last few days. Below are some excerpts, showing what we all can do.She and Melanie Flippin just went out and started making a difference.

May 5

We got our phone, Internet and TV back up last night. I was glued to the TV watching the reports of the flood. I had not seen any of it before..
I talked to my police friend this morning and she told me of some areas that I could check out today. Melanie Flippin and I bought water and have them getting cold in the freezer and are going out in a little while to hand them out in places where we see people working. It's going to be a hot day and maybe the cold water will help a little bit.

May 6
Malanie and I went to two neighborhoods yesterday and gave out cold water and donuts. One place had older people and it was a very poor area, they were sitting out in the heat. People had dropped off three cases of water, but they didn't have any coolers or ice to have cold water. I am going to go and buy a cooler and fill it with ice and take it over there when I go out. This area is out of the way and forgotten. As of today, they still have not gotten their walls torn out. Mud is dried on the floors. I only found women working there.

I picked Zach and Meg up from school and we went to a neighborhood in the Fieldstone Farms area called Cottonwood. We rode by houses and Zach handed out water from the window to people who were working. It looked like a war zone. One house had exploded, it looked like it had melted.

Melanie Flippin sent this email today: "Mike, the kids and I went back to the poor neighborhood we visited first on Tuesday. We also went with a cooler with cold water and drinks and rice crispy treats. At the second house we went to, we found Ms. _______ [a teacher for both the Flippin and Zigler kids]. Her parents were hit hard. They were there trying to salvage what they could. It was heart breaking to see the devestation, they had their pictures all spread out on the lawn, all the furniture was destroyed. I ended up leaving all we had with them. I asked what they needed and they said clothes. So I'm going to go to goodwill tomorrow to see what I can find. Let me know about the family your helping maybe we can double up again.

May 7

I went back to see about my two families on Lewisburg Pike by the river (an elderly man and wife and another man). Their situation was very poor to start with, now they have nothing at all. I took cold water yesterday after thinking about that area. They are not getting a lot of attention. Today I took coolers and ice for their water. I found out that they hadn't eaten and I went and got a food donation from Arbys. I told them that I would be back tomorrow with more ice.

I found out that they own their house and do not want to leave it. They leave and stay with their kids at night and come over every morning and wait for help. The man said "I'm not going to live much longer and I just want to stay here."

A family across from Pinkerton park (down the street from us) had all their clothes outside. Chris and I stopped to ask them if we could bring some home to wash for them. They already had it covered, but we got to meet and talk to them.

Zach, Meg and I picked up dinner and carried it to the Adcocks tonight. [Ron and Brenda had considerable damage.] After talking to Kelly White today (our relief team leader), he made a plan to help the family that Malanie and I have been taking ice to. When I took their ice this morning, they were happy to see me. The man said "I was getting ready for it." They are getting use to seeing me everyday (smiles).

Love Offering from the Las Vegas Church

2010-05-07T17:21:00.002-05:00

We received the following announcement which is being made to the Las Vegas Church where Frank and Julie are now serving. We are most grateful for their love and generosity.

Family,
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. (2 Cor. 1:4-5)

The death toll in Nashville, Tennessee continues to rise as flood waters begin to recede. Tuesday, the Cumberland River began to recede as residents who fled their homes over the weekend during the flash floods returned home to find their houses destroyed. Hundreds of people had been rescued over the past few days, and rescuers hoped that no more bodies would be found as the floodwaters receded.

Several cities and towns in Tennessee received more than a foot of rain over two days which broke records in the area. Thousands of homes, buildings, hotels, and Music City attractions were destroyed. Twenty nine people have been reported dead in Tennessee from either from the flash floods, or the storm. Rescuers found bodies floating in the flood waters as they began to recede. 18 people have died in Tennessee, 10 of them were found in Nashville.

By God's grace none of the disciples were hurt or killed. However, many are homeless or have had their homes destroyed by the flood with no flood insurance. After talking with Ernest and Dale today, the GLVC will be taking up a Love Offering this Sunday to send to the Greater Nashville Church along with a card to help comfort those in need.

Please pray and pass the word to the rest of the family about the great opportunity to bring comfort to all who have been hurt by the floods. Remember, this is our family who is in need and will be used by God to comfort thousands!

We love you all!
Frank and Julie

To Churches in Other Cities

2010-05-07T11:27:00.001-05:00

Some have heard that the Stardust Theater was underwater. This is not correct. We had no damage. The water from the Cumberland which covered the Opryland Hotel stopped about 100 yards from us. However, others have asked if they can help in any way. Any love offerings sent to the Greater Nashville Church will be used to assist many that we will be helping in coming days and weeks. Such offerings will be appreciated. Checks to the Greater Nashville Church can be sent to 2416 Music Valley Drive, Suite 135, Nashville TN 37214.

Insurance and FEMA Information

2010-05-06T17:33:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Brett Mehring
This information was sent out to TN 5th District members regarding FEMA and the process of getting assistance.

Step 1 Your Homeowners Insurance may cover some or all of the damage done by the storm. Contact them first.

Step 2 If you have Flood Insurance, it may cover the costs of repairing your home and replacing destroyed belongings. However, it may not cover the cost of staying elsewhere during the flooding or while repairs are made.

Step 3 If you are forced to evacuate your home, staying in a hotel or even with a relative, FEMA Housing Assistance is available to cover some of these costs. You will have to register for assistance with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov or 800-621-FEMA (3362).

Step 4 You may be eligible, through the Small Business Administration (SBA), for a federally subsidized SBA loan. These low-interest rate loans may be up to $200,000 to repair or rebuild your home and $40,000 to replace lost possessions even if you don’t own a small business. You may apply for an SBA loan at DisasterLoan.SBA.gov or 800-659-2955. The SBA will then arrange to come to your home and inspect the damages.

Step 5 If you cannot obtain an SBA loan, you may apply for other FEMA Assistance on DisasterAssistance.gov or 800-621-FEMA (3362). This assistance will only cover costs to bring your home up to a minimally habitable standard. FEMA will (separate from SBA) come to your home to inspect the damages. FEMA assistance is capped at $29,900, including any FEMA Housing Assistance you may have received in Step 3.

Contacts:

Lana Skelo, Staff Attorney
lana.skelo@mail.house.gov

Brenda Wynn, Director of Community Outreach
brenda.wynn@mail.house.gov

Nashville Office Number: 615-736-5295

May 6, 2010 2:24 PM

Steve Brown and Barry Holt Make Emergency Trip to Quito, Ecuador

2010-05-05T18:04:00.001-05:00

Due to the serious illness of Mireya Gomez, the wife of Mario Gomez, evangelist for the church in Quito, Steve Brown and Barry Holt flew there on Friday and returned here on Tuesday. They were able to encourage the church and pray with not only the Gomezes but with many others. Barry will share more on Sunday, May 9.