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Monday Prayers is a weekly e-mail message from Jim Choomack including, prayer requests and lectionary/confessions readings for the week. if you would like to subscribe to this weekly mailing, please send an e-mail to Jim Choomack

We had a lovely weekend in Greensboro, North Carolina. Saturday evening we attended a concert of the Eastern Music Festival Orchestra -- my daughter Ann plays flute/piccolo. After an opener by Edvard Greig, we heard the wonderful Greig Piano Concerto. After the intermission we heard another favorite of mine -- the First Symphony of Gustav Mahler. By the time this symphony comes to its conclusion every one in the orchestra is playing for all they are worth -- including the piccolo. It is loud, shrill, and the piece would be missing something very important if the piccolo were not there. I just love that my daughter played that part -- or should I say "role" in the musical tableau.

In the Bible the Church is compared with the human body, each member playing in a particular part in harmony with every other part to the end that the body will function appropriately. I think that the symphony orchestra offers a similar analogy to how the Church functions best in its mission that entails pleasure for both God and God's people throughout the Creation. There are several things at work here.

First, these orchestra members are experts, even virtuosos, in their own right. Like most members of the Festival orchestra, my daughter Ann has both bachelors and masters degrees in flute performance. They practice between 6-8 hours a day and usually have a coach- mentor to make sure they don't drift into bad habits and, therefore, inferior performance. They have to keep themselves at the top of their game, so to speak, because they never know when they will be called upon to perform -- and they never know where they will be called to go.

Second, after all this arduous individual labor, the symphony musician must then give up all personal ambition and ego, and sit in subjection to both the conductor and play in sympathetic harmony with the other musicians. While there are times for solo and ensemble performances, there are also times for silence while your musical partners take the lead. One can only imagine how difficult this can be at times, and yet it is so necessary if the orchestra's performance is to captivate and delight the audience as this orchestra did for us on Saturday evening.

Third, there is a bigger picture behind that performance. An orchestra, or a music festival, has a life that extends far beyond a particular performance. It is noteworthy that the orchestra -- and guest artist -- pack up everything and travel two hours to Boone, NC where they perform the program again on Sunday evening. Behind the wonderful performances are people who raise money, pay bills, write paychecks, arrange programs, and move the orchestra from place to place. Like everything else, an orchestra has a stated "mission," and all the means to carry that mission into reality.

Finally, most of these people, including my daughter, are teachers/mentors of others. That is, they pass their good gifts and talents to the next generation of musicians.

I hope you can see the implications for the Church. Obviously, the Church is more than a collection of well-meaning individuals. We are called by Jesus himself to "master" our faith. We are called to love God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength; we are called to love neighbor as self, to learn Scripture, singing, prayer, and good deeds. Likewise, we are called to be subject to one another out of love for God and love for God's mission in the world. We are to receive every stranger as a potential friend and ministry partner. We are to be ready to use these disciplines as empowerment for doing what God wants us to do -- and when/where He wants us to do it.

In the end, like the musician we must open ourselves to young disciples. These people may be younger in age, or metaphorically younger -- those who are new/young in the Faith. As you work through your devotions this week, I challenge you to put yourself in the orchestra -- and see where it all goes.

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. I hope you will continue in prayer for the Augusta Korean Presbyterian Church and for our work on the Presbytery-appointed Administrative Commission. Things are getting very challenging at the moment, and we need your prayers.

2. 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday we have Toastmasters at the Greensboro church. We are still recruiting members. Hardly a week passes that I don't hear somebody say, "I just can't get up in front of people. . . This is your opportunity -- to do so with a friendly group. Please don't hesitate another week. Come join us.

3. Pray for the Restoration Committee of the Greensboro church as it assesses needs and plans for future building renewal -- and mission renewal.

4. The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance service (PDA) represents one third of our One Great Hour of Sharing offering. PDA has committed significant funds to 28 presbyteries that have been affected by disasters this year. More than half of these disasters involve the floods or tornadoes. You can visit http://www.pcusa.org/pda/ or simply write a check to your church, earmarked for PDA flood relief. Of course -- we must pray!

5. Prayers for the Sick:, Peter Barney, Terri Buhrow, Catherine Choomack (just moved to a nursing home in Connecticut), James Corry, Payton Duncanson, Tom La Polla, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley, Jan Swaney, Karen Talley, Annie Tabler, and Kathryn Arnold Wolf. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

6. Let us pray for President Bush as he leads our country. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

7. Pray for our young people -- and their schoolteachers. Pray for refreshment -- and anticipation!

8. Please pray for the continuing search for peace and order in the world – especially our troops that are on the ground -- and their families here at home. Further, let us pray for those who have been seriously wounded and whose lives will be affected for as long as they live.

9. Let us pray for the PCUSA -- our new General Assembly Moderator, Bruce Reyes-Chow and Stated Clerk, Gradye Parsons. Let us pray for our sister congregations in Northeast Georgia Presbytery -- for our General Presbyter Ken Meeks and the rest of the Presbytery staff.

10. Let us pray every day for the communities in which we live. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us to "Seek the welfare of the city, for in its welfare you will find your own." When you pray for your community -- your gifts and talents are bound to follow -- for the benefit of all. Let us pray especially for our children as they prepare to go back to school -- also, for teachers and administrators as they continue their preparations. We must do this together!

11. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care.

Genesis 29:15-28; Psalm 105:1-11, 45b or Psalm 128:1-6; Romans 8:26-39; Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52

The Daily Lectionary follows a two-year cycle (as opposed to a three-year Sunday Lectionary cycle) of Bible reading. If you are interested, please visit http://www.pcusa.org/devotions/lectionary/index.htm where you will find readings for each day OR, better yet, you can subscribe to a daily e-mail reminder of the readings.

Stephen Jackson –Greensboro -- July 27, August 3; Union Point -- August 10, 17

So much happens at the lake shore. For those of us who live in the Lake Oconee area," the Lake" denotes a geographical location, a socioeconomic culture, a recreational area, a bustling business community, a weekend/seasonal residential community, and a place full of relative newcomers with all the same challenges that confront the rest of the human family.

Yesterday morning we heard the Parable of the Sower. Don't forget that Jesus told the story after settling everyone down on the lake shore. No doubt this was a place of sheer beauty -- but it was also place of physical and spiritual need. If you go back through the Gospels, you never see the word "lake" or "lake shore" without experiencing a special work grace, healing, feeding, or some other life giving activity.

After church yesterday our young people went out to the lakefront home of Erwin and Ruth Gettys for an afternoon of water sports and table fellowship. The afternoon started a first rate, ground drenching thunderstorms that lasted about 90 minutes. Not to be denied, the members of the group sat inside the house and played games like Charades -- a group favorite. All the while, they had their noses on the window glass waiting for the first sign of a break in the weather.

When lifeguard Susan Spearman declared that conditions were safe, they were in the water -- and in Erwin's speedboat before you could say "don't run on the dock." Erwin towed inner-tubes and other such flotation devices are on the lake for about 90 minutes until everyone was either pretty tired -- or very hungry. By the way, I had taken my scooter down the steep slope to the lake. Because the grass was wet I had to be careful coming back up.

To no one's surprise, everyone was so hungry that they did not wait for me to come back for the blessing. They just sang one that we often sing on Sunday evenings:

They sang with such gusto. . . As we ate, the table was full of laughter, good-natured teasing (a wonderful display of affection), and heard reports of how this summer was going -- and how everyone was looking forward to being back together as a group when school starts. When we finished there were hugs all around -- especially for Erwin and Ruth who opened their home -- and provided a joyful time with table fellowship. As you've heard me say many times, so much good happens when the Church gathers at the table.

As part of your devotions this week, meditate on hymn #378. See if you can find some new images of the lake shore as a place where Jesus meets us -- and changes us.

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. Next Sunday Reverend Martha Starnes will preach for the Greensboro church. Carole and I will be in Greensboro, North Carolina at the Eastern Music Festival and a concert by pianist Andre Watts (Greig's Piano Concerto, to be specific). Our youngest daughter, Ann, plays in the orchestra and is a member of the Festival staff.

3. Pray for the Restoration Committee of the Greensboro church as it assesses needs and plans for future building renewal -- and mission renewal.

5. Prayers for the Sick:, Peter Barney, Terri Buhrow, Catherine Choomack, James Corry, Payton Duncanson, Tom La Polla, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley, Jan Swaney, Karen Talley, Annie Tabler, and Kathryn Arnold Wolf. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

7. Pray for our young people -- and their schoolteachers. Pray for refreshment -- and anticipation!

11. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care.

Genesis 28:10-19a; Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24; Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

Martha Starnes --Greensboro -- July 20; Jim Choomack Union Point -- July 27, August 3, Greensboro -- August 10, 17

Stephen Jackson –Union Point -- July 20; Greensboro -- July 27, August 3; Union Point -- August 10, 17

Dear friends,

Carole and I had a lovely week of vacation in Tennessee . We started in East Tennessee with Carole's family (Scott-Clark) reunion at her brother's house. As expected, this was a great time to reconnect with the family through a shared meal, singing and dancing, recollections of the past year, and acceptance of the changes. As expected, at every reunion we remark that "someone" is not there -- "someone" has experienced a life-changing event -- "someone" looks rather old. If we were left only with recollections of the past and lament in the present, the family reunion would become a real "downer." As always -- thank God for Sunday!

On Sunday morning the gathered in the Lansing Presbyterian Church for worship -- Homecoming Sunday. Lansing is a very small community in the hills of Tennessee about 30 miles east of Oak Ridge . Years ago it was a railroad stop with a full-service passenger station. Carole's grandfather, John Scott, was stationmaster for the Sunbright community further down the line. He boarded the train every Monday in Lansing and returned on Friday. In Lansing he raised his family. This is where Carole spent many happy days during the summer -- especially Vacation Bible School at the Lansing Presbyterian Church. These were formative years for Carole's mother, her aunts and uncles, cousins -- and for her. I really love to hear the stories every year.

What was noteworthy about the worship service was that there were no costumes -- or even mention of the "old days." On the sanctuary walls, however, there were permanent displays of pictures from the span of the 20th century, and even a few from the 19th century. But the worship service was definitely 21st century. I was especially impressed with the "choir." A group of 8-10 adults -- and a couple of children -- came up out of the congregation and sang an introit, an anthem, and a closing that were definitely "21st-century." We sang "Faith of Our Fathers," but the sermon was definitely about today. I came away from the service thinking about tomorrow -- and even next week, when I would return to the Greene County parish and my regular pastoral activities.

Oh yes, the next day we traveled to Lebanon , Tennessee where I served as pastor for 11 years. Since my injury I have had a love/hate relationship with water -- especially swimming pools. What was supposed to be pleasant and therapeutic was for me painful and even something to be feared. I don't know what exactly was wrong but I know that being in the water was a miserable experience. Well, what do you know? I got in my father-in-law's pool Tuesday morning -- and I absolutely loved it. I was able to walk on the bottom without assistance. I laid over a float and, kicking my legs, navigated all over the pool. I got out of the water and was not the least bit cold. It was fabulous! I weighed in every day -- sometimes twice.

There is a lesson here. Although we must tip our hat to the past, real-life begins when we open ourselves to the future -- and try things that were previously assumed to be difficult, painful, or even impossible. I, for one, am excited about the next challenge. It should be a breeze!

Good to be back,

Jim

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. If you would like to read a report from the recent General Assembly meeting, you can find two places for official details. The first, of course is the PCUSA website (http://www.pcusa.org/ga218/) and, second, a pastoral letter from our General Presbyter Ken Meeks (http://www.negapby.org/). Check it out -- as always, there are controversies, challenges, and reasons to rejoice in God's great work among us and through us.

2. We are still having great fun at Toastmasters -- 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Greensboro church. We are still recruiting members. Hardly a week passes that I don't hear somebody say, "I just can't get up in front of people. . . This is your opportunity -- to do so with a friendly group. Please don't hesitate another week. Come join us.

3. The Union Point session will meet at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9.

4. On our way home from Tennessee we stopped to visit Annie Tabler and her parents, Tim and Cheryl, at the Shepherd Center . Annie is being treated in the Acquired Brain Injury unit. Considering the extent of her injuries, she looked very good. She has a long way to go, but we are grateful for her progress -- and, as always, for the power of united prayer.

5. Please continue to pray for the Augusta Korean Presbyterian Church and its search for a new pastor. I continue to serve on the Administrative Commission that had been appointed by the Presbytery to assist in this process. It has been a long and difficult journey, but the search committee is making progress. Please pray for the Pastor Nominating Committee, and for us on the Commission, as we give advice and counsel.

6. The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance service (PDA) represents one third of our One Great Hour of Sharing offering. PDA has committed significant funds to 28 presbyteries that have been affected by disasters this year. More than half of these disasters involve the floods or tornadoes. You can visit http://www.pcusa.org/pda/ or simply write a check to your church, earmarked for PDA flood relief. Of course -- we must pray!

7. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Payton Duncanson, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), Rosemarie Otis, Karen Talley, and Annie Tabler. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

8. Let us pray for President Bush as he leads our country. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro , and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

9. Please pray for the continuing search for peace and order in the world – especially our troops that are on the ground -- and their families here at home. Further, let us pray for those who have been seriously wounded and whose lives will be affected for as long as they live.

10. Let us pray for the PCUSA -- and our new General Assembly Moderator, Bruce Reyes-Chow. Let us pray for our sister congregations in Northeast Georgia Presbytery -- for our General Presbyter Ken Meeks and the rest of the Presbytery staff.

11. Let us pray every day for the communities in which we live. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us to "Seek the welfare of the city, for in its welfare you will find your own." When you pray for your community -- your gifts and talents are bound to follow -- for the benefit of all. Let's never stop praying.

12. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care responsibilities.

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary:

Genesis 25:19-34; Psalm 119:105-112; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

Readings from the Book of Confessions.

Monday: Westminster Confession: 6.161-6.168 Tuesday: Westminster Confession: 7.278-7.287

Wednesday: Confession of 1967: 9.36, 9.48-9.52 Thursday: A Brief Statement of Faith: Lines 1-6

Friday: A Brief Statement of Faith: Lines 58-64 Saturday: Study Catechism Q 67-78

Sunday: Apostles Creed

Worship Schedule:

Jim Choomack -- Greensboro -- July 13, 20; Union Point -- July 27, August 3, Greensboro -- August 10, 17

Stephen Jackson –Union Point -- July 13, 20; Greensboro -- July 27, August 3; Union Point -- August 10, 17

As I write this morning, the 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA is meeting in San Jose, California. Since the Fourth of July is coming up, I remind you that being a Presbyterian is really more about form of government than it is about doctrine. This is not to say that doctrine is unimportant -- but for today it is enough to know that our beloved Republic was formed on a Presbyterian foundation. That is, we are not a democracy -- government by the masses. We are not a monarchy -- we have no king/queen. We have a representative form of government in which we elect men and women of character and talent, and empower them to govern on our behalf. When they perform acceptably we elect them again. When they perform poorly, we vote them out of office. So, we have an orderly "revolution" every few years. This is a very Presbyterian.

Our Constitution says that we are governed by Ministers and Elders in graduated governing bodies. Sessions are made up of Ministers and Elders; Northeast Georgia Presbytery (one of 173) is made up of Minister Members and Elders, elected by sessions; the Synod of South Atlantic (one of 16) is made up of Ministers and Elders, elected by presbyteries; and finally, the General Assembly, made up of Ministers and Elders elected by presbyteries.

What we have is NOT a hierarchy. Just look at it! Decision-making comes from the grassroots. The Assembly meets every two years to consider the church's business -- much of which comes from church sessions through their respective presbyteries. Additionally, missionaries are commissioned, the Constitution is amended, and social issues are addressed. Certainly, there is conflict -- but we pray that it is the kind of conflict that ultimately produces just and godly actions as we care for God's children throughout the world.

Oh yes, each Assembly elects a Moderator. This person has been first elected as a commissioner (Minister/Elder) by his/her presbytery -- and nominated by the same. The Moderator presides over the weeklong Assembly -- no small task, given that there are nearly 800 persons with privilege of the floor! The rest of the two years he will speak all over the country and throughout the world -- an opportunity both to speak for the Church, and to listen to the Church.

Our new moderator is The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow, the 39-year-old pastor of the Mission Bay community Church in San Francisco. You can visit the Mission Bay Church at http://www.missionbaycc.org.. This is "an innovative new church of San Francisco Presbytery that was recently named winner of a 2007 Sam and Helen Walton Award for outstanding new church development." The congregation is predominantly under 40 -- many members had been previously unchurched.

Nothing is too hard or too wondrous for God. If the church steps out in faith rather than clinging to survival, to be more intent on being faithful than on being right, to be together based on our common covenant in Jesus Christ rather than by property or pensions, then we will be able to live into a future in which we are a vital and vibrant presence in the world.

The moderator is part of the so-called "emerging church "that focuses on reaching unchurched people -- young people. There is much more to be said about this -- but it will have to come later. For now, here are some characteristics of the "emerging church." They are people who:

1. Who take the life of Jesus as a model to live (life as spiritual journey). 2. And who transform the secular realm. 3. As they live highly communal lives. 4. Welcome those who are outsiders. 5. Share Generously. 6. Participate. 7. Create. 8. Lead without control (unity in diversity). 9. And function together in spiritual activities.

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. I will be on vacation beginning on Thursday of this week. We will be in and out of town -- part of the time in East Tennessee that Carole's family reunion. We are really looking forward to a break. Reverend Gloria Jennings will lead worship at Union Point in my place. NEXT WEEK THERE WILL BE NO MORNING PRAYERS!

3. On Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. the Restoration Committee will meet at our home for a follow-up gathering. Please pray for these men and women as they work on Church's buildings and grounds.

4. This coming Saturday at 9:30 a.m. there will be a Workday at the Greensboro church. Jimmy Moore as a list of inside/outside projects -- we will meet rain or shine!

5. The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance service (PDA) represents one third of our One Great Hour of Sharing offering. PDA has committed significant funds to 28 presbyteries that have been affected by disasters this year. More than half of these disasters involve the floods or tornadoes. You can visit http://www.pcusa.org/pda/ or simply write a check to your church, earmarked for PDA flood relief. Of course -- we must pray!

6. Let us offer our thanks for our General Presbyter, Ken Meeks and the Presbytery staff.

7. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Payton Duncanson, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), Rosemarie Otis, Karen Talley (some real good news), and Annie Tabler (also good news). Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

8. Let us pray for President Bush as he leads our country. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

10. Let us pray for the PCUSA -- and our new General Assembly Moderator, Bruce Reyes-Chow. Pray for the Assembly meeting in San Jose, California this week and for the commissioners from Northeast Georgia Presbytery. You can track Assembly activities at www.PCUSA.org.

12. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care responsibilities.

Jim Choomack -- Union Point: June 29 (Gloria Jennings), July 6; Greensboro: July 13, 20

Stephen Jackson –Greensboro: June 29, July 6 (Jerry Weber); Union Point July 13, 20

This Saturday the 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA will convene in San Jose, California. Ministers and elders from 173 presbyteries will come together for a week of worship, fellowship, prayer, and discernment with respect to the many domestic and global issues that present themselves to our Church. As always, strong-minded special interest groups will be pushing their agendas, and the news media will pick up on one or two major conflicts.

Mostly, the General Assembly is a gathering of the family -- God's family. In the very heart of the call for the Assembly is the following challenge to pray:

The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

We tend to think of our Church's future in terms of "votes" and divisive "issues." Likewise, we tend to think of our local church's future in terms of fixing up the bricks and mortar in hopes of getting a few more members to help to pay for the bricks and mortar. I want to offer a different image of the future.

J. Edwin Orr quotes Dr. A. T. Pierson Colin "there has never been a spiritual awakening in any country or locality that did not begin in united prayer." Doctor Orr continues,

Not many people realize that in the wake of the American Revolution (following 1776-1781) there was a moral slump. Drunkenness became epidemic. Out of a population of five million, 300,000 were confirmed drunkards; Profanity was of the most shocking kind. For the first time in the history of the American settlement, women were afraid to go out at night for fear of assault. Bank robberies were a daily occurrence.

What about the churches? The Methodists were losing more members than they were gaining. The Baptists said that they had their most wintry season. The Presbyterians in general assembly deplored the nation's ungodliness. In a typical Congregational church, the Rev. Samuel Shepherd of Lennos, Massachusetts, in sixteen years had not taken one young person into fellowship. The Lutherans were so languishing that they discussed uniting with Episcopalians who were even worse off.

These days there is much hand-wringing in the Church -- especially about how individuals or groups "out there" are the reason for our decline. It has never dawned on us that we are in a state of decline because of our own unwillingness to pray. By "pray" I do not mean simply to ask God for favors and stuff. The kind of prayer that precedes revival involves

Pleading with God for the world; and finally -- a relentless study of God's world,

It is impossible to imagine what a revival might look like in a church. It is our sinfulness, locally and at the General Assembly level, that makes us think we can engineer the Church into its future. The truth is that God's reviving work will shake us to the core, and send us places we cannot begin to imagine. This is why I am encouraging you to put aside all of your positions, viewpoints, and biases. Put them aside and pray for a God-hungry broken heart. This is the beginning of every kind of revival!

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. Tomorrow there will be a special "blessing" the Minnie G. Boswell Memorial Hospital as it becomes part of the St. Joseph's Hospital system. Archbishop Atlanta Wilton G. Gregory will preside at the service of blessing. I will be present as a member of the local chaplain's organization

2. The women of Greene County Presbyterian Parish will meet for a summer luncheon at Filet's in the Publix shopping center at 12:00 Saturday June 21. All women of the church are invited. If you haven't already responded that you will attend, please call Harriet Bryant or Karen Grigg by Thursday. Hope to see you there.

3.. If you are looking for some great fellowship, a lot of fun, and opportunity to improve your public speaking, join us for Toastmasters -- 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Greensboro church. We are still recruiting members. Hardly a week passes that I don't hear somebody say, "I just can't get up in front of people. . . This is your opportunity -- to do so with a friendly group. Please don't hesitate another week. Come join us.

4. It is not too late to get in on the study of the Gospel of John -- 9:45 a.m. (Greensboro) and 10:00 p.m. (Union Point). We will be using the "Disciple" series once again. Please let me know if you want to participate. Student study books are available at each church. Please come join us for good fellowship and fresh learning.

5. Let us give thanks for the successful Mexico Work Mission that has just concluded. We look forward to a good report from our own Susan Spearman.

6. Pray for the 218th General Assembly meeting in San Jose, California beginning on Saturday. You can follow streaming video of many Assembly events by visiting www.PCUSA.org.

7. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Payton Duncanson, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), and Rosemarie Otis. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

8. Let us pray for President Bush as he leads our country. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

10. Let us pray for the PCUSA -- and General Assembly Moderator, Joan Gray. Pray for our upcoming General Assembly meeting in San Jose, California, and for the commissioners from Northeast Georgia Presbytery. Also, let us offer our thanks for our General Presbyter, Ken Meeks and the Presbytery staff.

12. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care responsibilities.

Monday: Heidelberg Catechism: 4.065-4.074 Tuesday: Heidelberg Catechism: 4.075-4.085

Wednesday: Second Helvetic Confession: 5.020-5.022 Thursday: Second Helvetic Confession: 5.023 -5.028

Friday: Second Helvetic Confession: 5.169-5.177 Saturday: Second Helvetic Confession: 5.178-5.184

Jim Choomack -- Greensboro: June 22; Union Point: June 29 (Gloria Jennings), July 6; Greensboro: July 13, 20

Stephen Jackson –Union Point: June 22; Greensboro: June 29, July 6 (Jerry Weber); Union Point July 13, 20

This week's Christian Century carried an article by Barbara Brown Taylor entitled Failing Christianity, in which she talks about a course she teaches at Piedmont College entitled, Introduction to World Religions. Of course, everyone should take a class like this because the world's religions are on our doorstep. Mosques can be seen in many of our large cities, and even in some smaller communities. Likewise, there is a huge Hindu temple in Duluth, Georgia.

Given the nature of the crisis in Iraq -- tension between Shiites and Sunnis -- it behooves all of us to become familiar with the broad strokes of these religious traditions. And so, Ms. Taylor carries out her noble task of teaching young people about world religions. As a result, she says, "Students who complete the class say they feel more at home in the world. They are less easily frightened by religious difference. They are more informed neighbors, better equipped to wage peace instead of war."

What she discovered, however, was how little her students knew of their own Christian faith. Most of them have been members of churches since infancy, but demonstrated very small understanding of their history, theology, and basis for Christian practices. After working their way through several days of new learning, Ms. Taylor discovered something of a consensus: when they try to put what they were learning about Christianity at school in to the 'drawers' they had gotten a church, there was no room for the new information -- not because the drawers were full but because they had different labels on them. . . The Church drawers are labeled 'Favorite Bible Passages,' Personal Commitment to Jesus Christ,' 'Summer Mission Trips,' and 'What My Church Means to Me.'

As new information comes your way, she asks, "What happens to your Church drawers once you realize there are hundreds of other churches with just as many drawers of their own?" Here is where real faith and excitement begins. There is both information and experience far beyond what we have always thought and always practiced. This is not merely change for the sake of change; it is change because the Holy Spirit opens to us new vistas that challenge our faith and extend our horizons for service in Jesus' name.

I am often surprised and dismayed when lifelong Christians (Presbyterians) tell me that they don't know anything about their faith. I am usually at a loss for words -- mostly because such a lack of knowledge contributes directly to a weak and powerless church. I hope you understand that Christianity is not a "simple" religion. There are no easy 1-2-3 schemes for being a good Christian. We become "rooted and grounded" in Christ through daily discipline with the Scriptures, prayer, fellowship, singing -- and a level of study that increases the number of "drawers" in our lives.

You heard me say many times that we are not saved by information. However, it is that new information -- new learning -- that enriches us and provides for us "stories" that make us interesting, compelling, and more attractive ambassadors for our Lord and King.

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. Shortly, I am off to Atlanta for my semiannual doctor's appointment at the Shepherd Center. This is often a long, challenging day, but I always look forward to renewing friendships and encouraging current patients.

2. Please continue in prayer for our Mexico Mission partners who are building three homes this week. Early reports are very positive. Pray for our own Susan Spearman as she helps coordinate and organize the work teams. Mostly, pray that their lives will be joyful in the service of the Savior.

4. The Greensboro session will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday of this week. Stephen Jackson will serve as moderator -- while I fulfill a speaking engagement with the Walker United Methodist Church.

6. NEXT SUNDAY we will begin a study of the Gospel of John -- 9:45 a.m. (Greensboro) and 10:00 p.m. (Union Point). We will be using the "Disciple" series once again. Please let me know if you want to participate. Student study books are available at each church. Please come join us for good fellowship and fresh learning.

7. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Harriet Bryan, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Ruth Crutchfield on the death of her son, Jane Epps' family on the death of her sister, Sue (also Mildred Burke's daughter (, Billy Goss, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), Dot Key, and Rosemarie Otis. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

8. Let us pray for President Bush as he leads our country. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

12. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care responsibilities.

Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7); Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19; Romans 5:1-8; Matthew 9:35-10:8 (9-23)

Monday: A Brief Statement of Faith: Lines 54-57 Tuesday: The Book of Order G-3.0401 a and b

Wednesday: The Book of Order G- 3.0401c and d Thursday: Study Catechism Q 10 and 62-66

Jim Choomack -- Greensboro: June 15, 22; Union Point: June 29, July 6; Greensboro: July 13, 20

Stephen Jackson –Union Point: June 15, 22; Greensboro: June 29, July 6; Union Point July 13, 20

A few shingles blew off our house about two weeks ago. Our roofer just finished repairing them. After he finished we had a long talk -- mostly about church work and how he was active in the youth ministry of his church going back many years. He was, at the same time, a joyful a joyful Christian -- and a joyful roofer. I do not know this man very well, but it is very evident that his faith in God overshadows everything else in his life.

On Saturday I had a great visit with Susan Spearman. Susan is serving as "registrar" for a mission trip to Mexico with Constructores Para Cristo , a Christian missionary organization that helps build houses in impoverished areas in and around Piedras Negras, Mexico. Piedras Negras is in the state of Coahuila, one of the 32 states in Mexico, just across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas, which it is in turn about 150 miles southwest of San Antonio. Seventy five men and women (including young people) will spend two days on the road each way and five days putting up three homes for lower income families in collaboration the local Presbyterian community.

When Susan talks about his ministry her face lights up with joyful anticipation; I imagine that her countenance will be even brighter when she returns. You might ask why someone needs to go to Mexico, when there is so much need here in Greene County. The answer is simple. Whether we go, or whether we stay, when we do something, in Jesus' name, for someone else, we are filled with joy and our spiritual lives grow commensurately.

The moral here is that we grow in our faith only as we give ourselves away. As we give in acts of loving service for others, we reflect on them in a group environment -- and everyone is blessed. You see, it is what happens on mission trips, in the evening that really makes the difference. Here is where we share our experiences, share the Scriptures, and pray together. The Scriptures are, after all, missionary documents -- that involve sending God's people on a journey for God and with God to do God's work. This is powerful stuff!

One last thing: yesterday Habitat for Humanity of Greene County dedicated a new project -- not just a new home build, but a Habitat Village. Located behind Cotton's Corner, this village will be comprised of 15 homes that will be built by volunteers over the next 3-5 years. Here again, there was another expression of joy and hopefulness. Karen Grigg and I represented the Greensboro church. In addition, there were people from numerous churches across the county. And again, the air was filled with joyful anticipation of what is to come. The two new homeowners were with us -- and they shared with us to bear hopeful anticipation.

So -- there are three building projects, and three important words: joy, hopefulness, and anticipation. What is going on in your spiritual life these days? Are you longing to be filled with God's Spirit? Are you longing to know more of God in your life? If the answer to the first question is, "Nothing much"; and if the answer to the second two questions is "No," then you need to start (actively) doing something for someone else -- in Jesus' name. Think about it! Pray about it! Then -- do it!

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. Please pray for Susan and her 75 workers who will be leaving for Mexico on Friday. Pray especially for them as they drive -- even for such mundane things as finding gas that is less expensive! Mostly, pray that their lives will be joyful in the service of the Savior.

2. If you are looking for some great fellowship, a lot of fun, and opportunity to improve your public speaking, join us for Toastmasters -- 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Greensboro church. We are still recruiting members. Hardly a week passes that I don't hear somebody say, "I just can't get up in front of people. . . This is your opportunity -- to do so with a friendly group. Please don't hesitate another week. Come join us.

3. On Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., there will be a special planning committee meeting at the Choomack's for members of the Greensboro congregation. We will be looking at both physical (building) needs and programmatic concerns for the present and future needs.

4. The Parish Council meets for its monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. -- at the Union Point church.

5. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Harriet Bryan, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Ruth Crutchfield on the death of her son, Jane Epps' sisters Sue, Billy Goss, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), Dot Key, and Rosemarie Otis. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

6. Let us pray for President Bush and for those who contend for the office in elections later this year. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.

7. Please pray for the continuing search for peace and order in the world – especially our troops that are on the ground -- and their families here at home. Further, let us pray for those who have been seriously wounded and whose lives will be affected for as long as they live.

8. Let us pray for the PCUSA -- and General Assembly Moderator, Joan Gray. Pray for our upcoming General Assembly meeting in San Jose, California, and for the commissioners from Northeast Georgia Presbytery. Also, let us offer our thanks for our General Presbyter, Ken Meeks and the Presbytery staff.

9. Let us pray every day for the communities in which we live. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us to "Seek the welfare of the city, for in its welfare you will find your own." When you pray for your community -- your gifts and talents are bound to follow -- for the benefit of all. Let's never stop praying. Let us pray especially for the young people are graduating from Greene County High School and Nathaniel Greene Academy. It's

10. Please pray for your pastors as we pray for you and prepare for public worship, nurture, and pastoral care responsibilities.

Monday: Second Helvetic: 5.240-5.251 Tuesday: Westminster Confession: 6.140-6.148

Wednesday: Confession of 1967: 9.01-9.05, 9.22 Thursday: Confession of 1967: 9.31-9.42, 9.48

Jim Choomack -- Union Point: June 8, Greensboro: June 15, 22; Union Point: June 29, July 6

Stephen Jackson – Greensboro: June 8, Union Point: June 15, 22; Greensboro: June 29, July 6

Today is Memorial Day. Yale University history professor David Blight writes that the first "memorial day" was observed in 1865 by freed slaves at the historic Charleston race track, the site of a former Confederate prison camp -- and a mass grave for Union soldiers who had died while captive. The freed slaves re-interred the dead Union soldiers from the mass grave to individual graves, fenced in the graveyard and built an entry arch declaring it a Union graveyard; a very daring thing to do in the South shortly after North's victory.

On May 30 1886, or thereabouts, the freed slaves returned to the beautify graveyard with flowers they had picked from the countryside and decorated the individual gravesites, thereby creating the 1st "Decoration Day". A parade with thousands of freed blacks and Union soldiers was followed by patriotic singing and a picnic. It is interesting that in the South the holiday has been called "Decoration Day." In the north, where I was raised, we always had a big parade, patriotic displays -- and a big picnic!

The holiday has morphed with each new war to the year 2008 in which we remember, with thanksgiving, those who have given their lives for their country as recently as this week. In the United States of America we celebrate our many freedoms -- including the freedom to vigorously protest war in principle -- and specific wars in particular. Every Sunday in the Prayers of the People we pray for peace -- we pray that all wars may cease for ever.

At the same time, we must never forget to be grateful for those who gave their lives in the service of their country. Whether these wars are justified, or even popular, is irrelevant. We must be grateful. We must observe Memorial Day thoughtfully and reverently. Memorial Day is not a day for flag-waving, as much as it is for head-bowing -- and even tears.

Today, I hope you will say a special prayer of thanksgiving when you see television or other news media images of fallen soldiers or military cemeteries. That you are free to do this is in part the direct result of men and women who laid down their lives on fields of battle in various places. I hope you enjoy the day!

For Your Prayers (Many of these prayer requests, especially those further down the list, appear every week. They are the substance of regular prayer.)

1. Say a special prayer today, thanking God for someone specific who died in the service of their country. I know I can think of several from my high school and college classes who did.

3. Northeast Georgia Presbytery (our Presbytery) is in partnership with our neighbors, Cherokee, and Greater Atlanta presbyteries through a New Church Development Commission. This Commission plants new churches in our area without regard to Presbytery boundaries. Let's not forget that one of the main purposes of a presbytery is the organization of new churches -- evangelism! Rev. Pam Driesell, pastor of the Oconee Presbyterian Church in Watkinsville is serving as chairperson.

4. Prayers for the Sick: Donna and Derek Alderman and their son Tyler, Peter Barney, Harriet Bryan, Terri Buhrow, James Corry, Ruth Crutchfield on the death of her son, Jane Epps' sisters Sue, Billy Goss, Jo Kenny's grandson, Sidney Kelley (Shirley Haynes' son), Dot Key, and Rosemarie Otis. Pray also for our members living in retirement and nursing homes who appreciate not only prayers, but cards and visits: Margie Simpson, Mildred Burke (MG Boswell Nursing Home); Jean Dolvin, Owen Scott (Greenpoint Nursing Home), Delle Scott, Martha Scott, Dorothy Spilsbury -- all at Willow Run.

5. Let us pray for President Bush and for those who contend for the office in elections later this year. Locally, let us pray for our governor, and the mayors of Union Point and Greensboro, and the councils/committees/staff person's who support their work on our behalf. Scripture requires this of us.