SOUTH GEORGIA ADVOCATE – FEBRUARY 16 EDITION
Aldersgate UMC has powerful partnership with weightlifting ministry
By Kara Witherow, Editor
A unique partnership between a Savannah United Methodist Church and a former member of the U.S.
Women’s Weightlifting National team has grown into a powerful ministry.
Aldersgate UMC, located in the heart of East Savannah at the corner of Pennsylvania and Tennessee
Avenues, is a small, urban, neighborhood church. In the past 50 years, what used to be a blue-collar,
middle-class community has transitioned. Crime, gangs, and violence had increased and there were two
shootings in the neighborhood just last month.
The congregation knew they had to do something to help protect area children and give them a safe
haven.
At the same time, former competitive weightlifter Kerri Goodrich was on the hunt for a building large
enough to house Performance Initiatives, Inc., the ministry she founded that had quickly outgrown her
garage.
The church had space and wanted to help the community. Goodrich needed space and had a ministry
that was reaching troubled kids.
It took a few months to hammer out the details, but for the past eight years, Performance Initiatives, Inc.
has had a home in Aldersgate UMC’s Family Life Center.
“It’s been a very unique partnership and a very successful partnership,” Goodrich said.
The ministry uses fitness and athletics – specifically weightlifting – to educate and mentor youth and
children. It serves 40 to 50 kids each day, five days a week.
“I like it because it ministers beyond Sunday mornings,” said Aldersgate UMC pastor Rev. Ben Gosden.
“Through this ministry, the church touches their lives five days a week.”
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Most of the children served by Performance Initiatives come from “complicated” homes, said Rev.
Gosden, who tutors students one day a week, and the ministry is a safe place for them to go after school.
The ministry runs from 3:30 p.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students, most who are 7 to 12
years old, are tutored and receive help with homework before their fitness training sessions. Leadership
and life-skills classes are also offered, and kids participate in a Bible study on Wednesday afternoons.
Healthy dinners are provided for those who stay beyond 5:30 p.m.
Aldersgate UMC members volunteer at Performance Initiatives, serving as mentors, tutors, and
handymen. They have developed friendships with the students and now see some of them during Sunday
morning worship services.
“We have kids who come to church with no parents whatsoever. They walk here,” Rev. Gosden said.
“We’ve built relationships with them and they come, and there’s a growing sense of love and
responsibility that we owe it to these kids to reach out to them.”
Aldersgate UMC’s partnership with Performance Initiatives is just one way the church is reaching out
into the community. The congregation hosts a weekly meeting of Narcotics Anonymous; a weekly
meeting of Hagar Ministries, a new women’s support ministry; and is in the process of forming a new
Boy Scout troop.
These are fresh expressions of the congregation’s love, faith, and willingness to go where God is calling
them.
“I’m a big fan of the church being open five or six days a week,” Rev. Gosden said. “It’s a great
reminder that discipleship is supposed to be more than just one day a week.
“The question the church has to ask is, ‘where is God moving and how can we join in?’”
2015 Lenten photo a day project
Lent, the season of the Christian Year that is typically observed as a time of simple living, prayer and
fasting leading up to Easter, begins on Ash Wednesday [February 18, 2015]. Many spend the time in
self-examination and reflection as modeled by Jesus in Matthew 4: 1-11 where he prayed and fasted for
40 days before beginning his ministry.
What happened during those 40 days of fasting and praying in the wilderness? Our friends at the Upper
Room say that maybe Jesus needed some time with God to sort through the major changes happening in
his life. Maybe he needed a break from family, friends and his regular routine in order to see God [and
himself] more clearly. Maybe he sought more time with God as he searched for direction and answers to
the question that we, too have from time to time: “What are you calling me to do, God?”
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As we journey through this season of Lent, some will choose to give up something. Some will go about
their lives as if it was ordinary time. Some will choose to be more reflective. Whatever your practices
this season, will you join this photo-a-day challenge and share with the community how you perceive
each word or phrase for the day? No explanation needed, unless you want to. After all, a picture is worth
a thousand words. Tag us on your instagram photos with @rethinkchurch or on twitter
[@umrethinkchurch] with #rethinkchurch and #40days. We'd also love to share your photos on
our Pinterest board, so tag us there, too.
You don't have to be a great photographer. This project is more about the practice of paying attention
and being intentional, than it is using the right filter or getting the perfect shot [though we encourage
you to get creative!]. If you don't have instagram or twitter, we'd still love for you to share your photos.
Just share them on your facebook page and tag us, or post them on our facebook wall.
Need a daily reminder? Sign up to receive a text or email here.
Let’s start this 40-day journey together, sharing glimpses of our lives with one another. Let this be an
intentional time, even for a few minutes a day, to pause, remember and reflect.
So how do you connect to this project online?
Facebook
Twitter [#rethinkchurch #40days]
Pinterest
Instagram [#rethinkchurch #40days]
Tumblr
March 2 deadline for resolutions
March 2 is the deadline for all Resolutions to be considered by the 2015 session of the South Georgia
Annual Conference. The Resolutions Committee will consider only those resolutions received by March
2.
Resolutions should be sent to Rev. Wayne Moseley, Chair, 10 Timber Trail Suite #101, Richmond Hill,
GA 31324 or [email protected]. A copy should be sent to Rev. Craig Hutto, Conference
Secretary, PO Box 420, Waynesboro, GA 30830 or [email protected]. A digital copy should
also be sent to Mrs. Kara Witherow at [email protected].
Standing Rule 3.1.4. RESOLUTIONS AND PETITIONS
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Resolutions from individuals or churches to the Annual Conference shall be referred to the Committee
on Resolutions and shall be signed by at least five persons unless coming from an Administrative
Board/Council.
Petitions to the General Conference of The United Methodist Church from individuals, churches and
Annual Conference Committees/Commissions/Boards/Agencies, etc., which desire Annual Conference
endorsement shall be referred to the Committee on Resolutions.
Typed copies of the resolutions and petitions shall be sent by the established deadline to the Chair of the
Committee on Resolutions and the Secretary of the Annual Conference. (See 3.3.3 for more
information.)
Standing Rule 3.3.3. COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS
A Quadrennial Committee on Resolutions shall be named for the Annual Conference. It shall be
composed of seven persons: three clergy and three laity, and a District Superintendent as Chairperson.
The Committee on Nominations shall nominate the Committee, and the Conference shall elect. All
resolutions from individuals or churches to the Annual Conference shall be referred to this Committee
and shall be signed by at least five members unless coming from an Administrative Board/Council.
Petitions going to General Conference through the Annual Conference shall be referred to this
Committee. Action by the Conference upon the report of the Committee shall come no later than the
next-to-the last day. Copies of resolutions shall be sent by the established deadline to the Chair of the
Committee on Resolutions and the Secretary of the Annual Conference. The Committee shall receive,
study and report on each Resolution to the Annual Conference with a recommendation to: "Concur",
"Non-concur", "Revise", or "Refer". Resolutions coming to the conference after the established deadline
will require the suspension of the rules to be properly before the conference. Also, the resolution
presenters are responsible for printing 1200 copies for distribution. These late resolutions shall be
distributed after the rules have been suspended and no later than the day before action is to be taken.
(See 3.1.4 for more information.)
2014 Statistical Tables now available online
The 2014 Statistical Tables are now available to be filled out online at http://ezra.gcfa.org/login.aspx.
Conference website now open to receive election submissions
The conference website is now open to receive information from those interested in serving on the
General Conference and Jurisdictional Conference delegations.
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The Conference elections policy calls for the site to include a provision for personal contact information,
appointments served, and leadership positions held in the conference and district by clergy. Interested
laity will be provided a space to put personal contact information, local church membership, occupation,
and whether they are a youth, young adult or adult.
All persons interested in serving may submit a statement up to 100 words concerning their interest,
issues and qualifications to be considered as a potential delegate.
Laity interested in serving will have a deadline of March 31 to submit their information for inclusion in
a printed booklet that will be mailed with the Book of Recommendations and Reports in early May. The
website will remain open through the Annual Conference session for other laypersons to declare their
availability. Lay persons declaring their willingness to serve after March 31 will not be included in the
printed booklet, but will be able to speak during the time allotted to meet “candidates” during the laity
session.
Events in the South Georgia Conference – 2/16/2015 edition
Scouting Ministry Specialist Training – Feb. 21
A joint North Georgia and South Georgia Conference Scouting Ministry Specialist training for all scout
leaders and adults interested in promoting scouting is set for Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at Trinity UMC in
Warner Robins. The training is for those wanting to be trained as BSA and GCUMM Scouting Ministry
Specialists, Scouting Coordinators, or Chartered Organizational Representatives. If you are interested in
attending this training, please email Roger Boan, Scouting Ministry Specialist, at [email protected] to let
him know. Snacks and drinks will be provided during the day, but attendees will be responsible for their
own meals. The training will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will end around 3 p.m. The list of classes and more
details will be sent out by email well in advance of the training. Please send an email now to ensure you
receive the training details.
Kingdom Builders Sunday – Feb. 22
The Office of New and Revitalized Congregational Development looks for gifted and passionate leaders
who are able to lead new or revitalizing congregations on the path of transition. The desire is to “make
and train disciples of Jesus Christ.” When you invest with NRCD, 100% of your gift goes to enable us to
plant a new church or bring radical transition and growth in an existing congregation. Your partnership
with NRCD makes a difference in the lives of people all across South Georgia. Please consider joining
in this ministry and become a Kingdom Builder! Click here to download a Kingdom Builder support
form.
Clergy Sexual Ethics Workshop – Feb. 26
A Sexual Ethics Workshop is scheduled from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015, at
Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. According to the Conference Sexual Ethics policy, this
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workshop is required every three (3) years for any person serving under appointment by the bishop
(clergy, local pastors, extension ministers, appointed lay speakers). Cost is $35, which includes lunch
(collected at the door). Checks can be made payable to South Georgia Conference. To register, click on
the link below. For questions, email [email protected]. Please note that spouses and lay
employees who are not appointed by the bishop are not eligible to attend the workshop.
28th Annual Open Door Classic Walk and 5k Run – March 7
The 28th Annual Open Door Classic Walk and 5k Run is a fundraising event benefiting Open Door
Community House in Columbus, Georgia. 5k registration begins at 7 a.m., race starts at 8 a.m. Fee for
5k is $25 before and $30 the day of the event. Registration for the walk begins at 8 a.m. and the walk
starts at 9 a.m. All registered participants will receive an Open Door Classic t-shirt.
“Audit is NOT a Four-Letter Word!” webinar – March 12
Think your church doesn't need to do an audit? Think you are too small or don't have enough assets?
Think because you can't afford to hire a CPA that a Local Church Audit is out of reach? Think again!
Audits are mandatory, and you CAN do this! Join in on the free webinar, Thursday, March 12 at 7:30
p.m. Register here!
Join the Journey: “Eastside” Confirmation Retreat – March 13-15
Designed for students in the fifth grade and above, the “Join the Journey” Confirmation Retreat will
provide churches of all sizes an opportunity to connect with others through worship, study, and
fellowship. The event, held at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island, will also include large group
gatherings around the church seasons and breakout sessions with topics of grace, United Methodist
History and United Methodist lingo as well as a "Holy Club" highlight. The deadline to register is Feb.
20. Click HERE to register online for Join the Journey EAST at Epworth By The Sea.
North & South Georgia Joint Clergy Spouse Retreat – March 13-15
Clergy spouses are invited to set sail on a wonderful trip to Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island
for the joint Spouses Retreat for the South Georgia and North Georgia Conferences. This three-day
adventure will be filled with faith, fun and laughter as we gather together under the direction of Cruise
Directors Mary Varnell and Susan Unkles. With Jesus as our captain and all hands on deck this is sure to
be an exciting retreat. Grab your life jacket and come sail away with us! Visit
www.sgaumc.org/clergyspouses for more information.
One Great Hour of Sharing – March 15
One Great Hour Of Sharing (fourth Sunday in Lent) enables the United Methodist Committee on
Relief to reach out through worldwide ministries of food, shelter, health and peace. A special offering is
taken on this day to support humanitarian aid through the United Methodist Committee on Relief
(UMCOR). You can be assured that when catastrophes cause suffering, your church, impelled by Jesus'
love and compassion, will be in the lead to ease the pain. Gifts to the One Great Hour of Sharing
offering underwrite UMCOR's "costs of doing business." That helps them keep their promise that 100
percent of every other gift you make to a specific UMCOR project can be spent on that project - not on
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home office costs. To learn more about UMCOR or to order resources to promote the offering,
visit www.umcor.org or call 888-346-3862. Click here for resources to help promote this offering in
your local church.
UMW Spiritual Growth Retreat – March 20-22
The United Methodist Women of the South Georgia Conference will host their annual Spiritual Growth
Retreat March 20-22, 2015, at Epworth By The Sea on St. Simons Island. Visit www.sgaumc.org/umw
for more information.
Leadership Growth and Development
FOCUS ON THE VISION
DENISE WALTON
In his book “Servant Leadership,” Robert Greenleaf defines two kinds of leaders. Strong natural leaders
are those who try to take control, make decisions, and give orders in any situation in which the find
themselves; they have a need to be in charge. Strong natural servants, on the other hand, will assume
leadership only if they see it as a way in which they can serve.
Ken Blanchard, in his book “The Heart of a Leader,” states, "I want to be led by strong natural servants
because they are willing to use whatever leadership style – directive, supportive, or some combination –
that best serves the needs of those they are leading. Blanchard reminds the reader the primary biblical
image of servant leadership is that of a shepherd. The flock is not there for the sake of the shepherd; the
shepherd is there for the sake of the flock.
"Servant leadership is more about character than style," Blanchard writes.
How does your style of leadership affect the day-to-day ministries God has called you to serve?
In what ways are you seeking to grow and develop in your leadership?
I invite clergy and laity to share leadership development ideas by emailing me at [email protected].
Share upcoming conferences, mentoring, books or other leadership opportunities. We will share your
responses in an upcoming Advocate article.
Rev. Denise Walton serves as the Assistant to the Bishop for Connectional Ministries. Contact her at
[email protected].
Remembering my baptism
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PATHWAY TO HIS PRESENCE
B.J. FUNK
On the first night of Winter Camp Meeting at Epworth By The Sea, Bishop King asked us if we still had
our Baptismal Certificate. He said that as he has grown older, his baptism has also grown in meaning.
Immediately, my mind went back to scenes from my childhood as I sat on Mama’s bedroom floor and
asked the question she heard me ask every year on my birthday.
“Is this the year, Mama? Is this the year I get to open the preacher’s letter to me?”
“Not yet,” she would answer. “But it won’t be long.”
Sometimes she would open the large cedar chest in her room and let me take the envelope out and look
at it. I was so curious to see what was inside. All I knew was that our minister gave my mama this letter
for me to open when I reached a certain age, and that he gave it to her the day I was baptized as an
infant.
With every year, the envelope carried more mystery. I could feel something inside. What was it? I
examined the envelope carefully, waiting for the big day when I could open it. Finally, on my 13th year,
Mama handed the envelope to me and said, “Now.”
I was not disappointed. Inside was a letter written by the pastor who baptized me. He talked about the
significance of my baptism, and that one day I would be ready to accept Christ as my personal Savior
and join the church. The rose, placed on the altar that day to commemorate my baptism, had long lost its
scent and its color, but to me, it looked just about perfect.
It’s hard for me to describe the deep appreciation I have for that letter and the rose. They both say to me,
“You matter to God and to the Body of Christ. On the day of your baptism, your parents and your
church promised to teach you about Jesus, so that one day you could know Him for yourself.”
That happened. My parents took this vow seriously. I enjoyed years and years of Vacation Bible School,
Sunday school, Youth Fellowship programs, morning and evening services and Wednesday choir and
then supper. The day came when I knew that I wanted Jesus to be my Savior and also my Lord.
What about you? Have you remembered your baptism lately, that beautiful time when your parents
acknowledged that you did not belong to them, but instead, to God? Have you touched your forehead or
the top of your head in holy recognition of that wonderful moment when God whispered, “You’re
mine,” and your parents whispered back, “He’s Yours.”
Like Bishop King, as I grow older, my baptism ripens in meaning, like a green banana that receives its
best color after a certain amount of time has passed. I am humbled and awed over what took place on
that Sunday morning so long ago, and I am so thankful to God that I had parents who cared not only
about my physical needs but about my spiritual ones, as well.
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Since humans are limited in our understanding of spiritual matters, there is no way I can adequately
describe what my baptism means to me. I certainly was unaware of that touch of water on my head when
it happened, but I understand now the significance of that moment, and I will shout from the rooftops
that something did indeed happen. A holy mystery occurred as my mama held me at the altar of our
church. It was not a magical moment; not a moment that made the front page of our local newspaper. No
photographer was paid to snap our picture. To most people in church that day, it might have been just
another baptism.
But, to me, it was a holy miracle, a divine interacting of God with my spirit, an interactive conversation
between God and my parents, a commitment from my congregation to seriously enter into the training of
my heart with Christian teaching.
It was the day God said, “I adopt you,” and my parents’ signature on my certificate said, “Let it be so.”
How thankful I am, how rich I am, how blessed I am for my baptism.
The Rev. B.J. Funk is associate pastor of Central UMC in Fitzgerald. Email her at
[email protected].
In times of grief
By Dr. Hal Brady
Since our daily newscasts show so many grieving people and since I have just finished reading about the
death of legendary North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith, I want to address the subject of grief.
Grief has been defined as “the natural response to any loss.” The key word is that it is natural. There is
an orderly process people go through in dealing with grief. This process is nature's way of healing a
broken heart. And keep in mind that there are no short cuts, no magic words or magic cures.
It is the same way with the healing of a broken bone. If a person breaks a leg the physician puts a cast on
the leg. Then, for an extended period of time, the physician instructs that crutches be used to keep the
pressure off the leg. No one suggests that the time be shortened or that the crutches not be used.
Do you know how long the average person grieves? According to those who study such things, the
process lasts about two years. Sometimes it lasts longer, sometimes it may be a little shorter, but two
years is the average. This means that it lasts much longer than most of us realize, and it is full of peaks
and valleys.
For a moment, let’s focus on the various stages of grief. It will help us in our understanding to name
them. But as we consider these various stages, we need to keep in mind that there is no smooth transition
from one stage to another. These stages overlap and we make progress and fall back throughout the
healing process. One day we get better and another day we get worse, and that is altogether normal.
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The following are the stages:
Shock. That's when the news first comes: “I can't believe it.”
Numbness. In a dazed condition, we try to absorb the shock.
Emotional Relief. This is the time when tears of laughter or another kind of emotional expression breaks
through.
Depression or loneliness. At this point in our grief, we feel isolated and cut off.
Guilt. Most of us deal with a measure of guilt. If I had just done this or that, things might have been
different.
Recovery. We commit ourselves “to start living again and rebuilding our lives.” The mark of faith and
victory is the ability to go on.
After the loss of his mother, Henri Nouwen observed, "I had to fight the temptation 'to get back to
normal' too soon.”
Now, in times of grief there are several things we can do to help ourselves. First, we can remember that
God heals through time. There's an old saying that “time heals,” and it does. God often uses time to heal
our sorrows. Second, we can keep our spiritual disciplines. When I first received the heavy news that my
father had died, for several days I didn't feel like spending quiet time. But I kept to my daily disciplines
of quiet time anyway, and from it I received an added source of strength. Third, we can stay involved in
fellowship with others. So much of our healing comes through the gate of fellowship – fellowship with
family, friends, religious institutions and others. Fourth, we can move forward! In essence, grief is like
riding a bicycle. The only way to keep your balance is to go forward. If we stand still, we will topple
over. And fifth, we can trust God! So where can we go to find the strength we need to face life, death
and grief? We cannot find the strength we need by looking back at the sorrows of the past and asking
why.
The biblical character Job didn't find the answer there. Job found the answer in the whirlwind when he
was encountered by God. Job simply could not fathom the mystery of why things happen, but he could
sense God's presence through all his experiences.
On hearing of the drowning death of his son in the Rio Grande River, Bob Buford, businessman and
author, was walking along that river as frightened, he said, as he had ever felt. “Here's something you
can't think your way out of, buy your way out of or work your way out of. Here's something you can
only trust your way out of.” And I appreciate the helpful way Ellsworth Kalas, noted preacher and
teacher of preachers, put it. Dr. Kalas said, “That our trust is not so much in God’s promises, though that
is an integral part of it, but in God’s character. Thus, in our grief, we people of faith trust in the character
of God and Father of Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “In the world you have tribulation (grief). But be of good
cheer (courage), I have overcome the world” (John 26:33).
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Dr. Hal Brady is a retired pastor who continues to present the Good News of Jesus Christ and offer
encouragement in a fresh and vital way though Hal Brady Ministries.
Clothed and ready
Quarter: Acts of Worship
Unit 3: Stewardship for life
Sunday school lesson for the week of Feb. 22, 2015
By Helen & Rev. Sam Rogers
Scripture: Ephesians 6: 10-20
The motto of the Boy Scouts is “Be prepared!” That was also Paul’s last word to the Christians in
Ephesus.
Ephesus was a major seaport in Asia Minor (today Turkey). Tradition holds John took Mary, the mother
of Jesus, to Ephesus after the crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus to fulfill the instructions
of Jesus about her from the cross. Ephesus was one of the seven churches addressed in the book of
Revelation. Paul spent several years there in his missionary work. The long-standing pre-eminence of
the community of faith there is important to remember. As with the rest of the New Testament, the
message to one church was shared with all. We may safely assume these words were a “last will and
testament” of Paul to the churches he founded and nurtured.
The writer identifies himself as “an ambassador in chains.” With these words Paul declares a prisoner is
what he is, but the ambassador for Christ is who he is! His work for Christ is not diminished by his
physical limitations. The work goes on!
What is that work? To be prepared to fight the good fight against the forces of evil. Paul identifies the
leader of those forces as the “devil.” Some may be uncomfortable with the idea of a personal devil, but
the reality of evil is undeniable. Moreover, Paul wants us to know the evil against which we struggle is
systemic and cosmic.
“Our struggle is not against enemies of flesh and blood,
but against the rulers, against the authorities, against
the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the
spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (vs.12)
Impersonal evil is manifest in our world today: prejudice, religious conflicts, racism, political
dictatorships, corporate irresponsibility, environmental destruction – and the list goes on.
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With such a fight on our hands, we could easily be discouraged, but take heart! The war has already
been won! The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ has assured us of the ultimate victory.
Years ago at Winter Camp Meeting at Epworth By The Sea, William Sangster, the wonderful English
Methodist preacher said in a sermon: “The devil is beaten – but doesn’t know it! Poor devil, poor devil!”
However, the individual battles continue. For the battle, Paul wants us to know the strength and power
available to us in the Lord. (vs.10) God’s gift is power, given as grace, not self-generated, and with the
power come the tools needed for the battle
The list of equipment Paul uses metaphorically is the familiar battle clothing of a Roman soldier. Paul
was seeing these men every day, and all the citizens of the empire saw them everywhere they went. As
we are writing, the TV is filled with scenes of soldiers walking the streets of Paris, armed and ready.
Similarly on our trips to Israel, we have witnessed Israeli soldiers in battle garb, prepared for the worst.
Let’s note at the beginning, most of the “armor” is defensive – to protect the warrior from injury.
Standing up, the soldier lifts the tunic (outer clothing) and binds it with a belt around the waist so the
soldier may move freely, unencumbered with unnecessary restraints. In another context, Paul uses the
phrase “gird your loins.” The belt or girdle is “truth” – the same truth Jesus spoke about in John: “You
shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.”
Next, the breastplate is fastened in place. Like today’s bullet-proof vest, the breastplate was to protect
the most vital organs of the body from a fatal wound. And what protection this affords in the battle with
evil! The righteousness of God, imputed to us by Jesus on the cross, covers us and enables us to survive
in an evil environment.
Interestingly, Paul follows with the proper foot-wear. Historians give credit to the boots the Roman
legionnaires wore for their success in conquering the Mediterranean world. Walking great distances and
fighting long and tiring battles required good boots. The same is true today. One of the hard lessons
learned in WWII in the Battle of the Bulge was the American soldier did not have proper winter footwear. The Christian shoes are to enable us to carry the good news God has made peace with sinful
humanity possible through Christ.
“With all these take the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of
the evil one.” (vs. 16) Vividly, Paul records how the battle goes with a hailstorm of arrows raining down
on the troops in battle. Faith is our shield in front or overhead, and this absolute trust in God enables us
to overcome. “When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie, my grace all-sufficient shall be thy
supply.”
Two final pieces of equipment: The helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit. Salvation is not only
forgiveness of past sin, it is strength to conquer present and future sin as well. We must never look only
backward to when we were “saved,” but look forward, knowing we are being saved every day.
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Lastly, there is the sword, the only offensive weapon we have. Paul declares the sword to be the Spirit –
the very Word of God. How did the soldier carry his sword? It was attached to the belt! The Belt of
Truth – the Sword of the Spirit – the Word of God! WOW! We are equipped fully to do the work of
fighting the battles! For us the Word is both the living Word – the “logos” (John 1:1), and the written
word – the scriptures. We remember vividly sword drill in VBS (Vacation Bible School) when we were
given Bible verses to find quickly. That was training never to be forgotten!
Are you “clothed and ready?” Paul adds one final important admonition. We are to pray always.
Remember Unit 2 – “Learning to Pray?” Prayer is to be done for “all the saints” – the church, the Body
of Christ in the world. Paul also says prayer is personal – pray for me! Yes, even the great ambassador
for Christ needed prayer. We all do! Life’s circumstances are precarious. We can’t always escape. We
are called to stand firm and live faithfully. Put on the whole armor of God. Growing up in Valdosta
FUMC, we often sang:
“Whisper a prayer in the morning, whisper a prayer at noon,
Whisper a prayer in the evening: to keep your heart in tune.”
Helen and Rev. Sam Rogers are a retired clergy couple. They can be reached at [email protected] and
[email protected].
The Lamb of God
Sunday school lesson for the week of March 1, 2015
By Dr. Hal Brady
Scripture: John 1:29-34
The theme of the 14 lessons for the third quarter is “The Spirit Comes.” According to Dr. Jerry Sumney,
professor of biblical studies at Lexington Theological Seminary and series writer, the focus is on God’s
work through the Holy Spirit to empower disciples to live their faith. With that exciting focus, the first
unit is composed of five lessons that center on “The Pledge of God’s Presence.”
John’s Gospel Account of Jesus’ Baptism
Before we begin, however, it is important to realize that the Gospel of John is distinctive. While
Matthew, Mark and Luke, known as the Synoptic Gospels, register Jesus talking a lot about the kingdom
of God, John seldom mentions it. The writer of John’s Gospel chooses instead to concentrate on the
identity of Jesus as the One sent from God. This is significant as we focus on the writer’s understanding
of Jesus as “The Lamb of God.”
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John the Baptist had been baptizing in the Jordan River. In the previous scripture, the Baptist had
refused titles that might be applied to a Messiah and had identified himself as the person who prepares
the way for someone greater than himself.
The writer of John’s Gospel wants to make the distinction between John the Baptist and Jesus clear.
Indeed, he wants Jesus to be seen as superior to John.
Our scripture lesson picks up the story of John the Baptist the day after he questions about his own
identity. We are not told whom the Baptist is addressing because the important issue is that the Gospel’s
readers hear it.
The initial thing John the Baptist says about Jesus, beyond the obscure affirmation that Jesus is greater
that he, is that Jesus is “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Have you
ever thought about what must have been involved in that declaration – for the Baptist and for his
hearers? Scholars inform us that for centuries Israel had known all about the sacrificial lamb. They had
learned about it first from the story of Abraham, who was the father of their nation. At God’s command,
Abraham had gone up the mountain to sacrifice his son, Isaac. On the way, Isaac had asked Abraham,
“Father…The fire and the wood are here, but where is the lamb? Abraham answered, “God himself will
provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son” (Genesis 22:7, 8). And God did!
Israel had also known about the lamb as a result of the institution of the Passover. This had to do with
Israel’s preparation for their departure from Egypt. On that occasion, the blood of the lamb on the
doorposts of the houses was the sign for the angel of death to past by (Exodus 12:1ff). Additionally,
these Israelites knew that daily in the services of the temple, that lambs and goats were sacrificed. They
knew that in every instance the sacrifices meant the death of an innocent substitute in place of the one
who had sinned.
It was on this basis that John the Baptist came along and exclaimed, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes
away the sin of the world.” The Baptist recognized that the sacrifices were to be fulfilled in Jesus and
that he would bear our sin as Isaiah had stated: “Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our
diseases…he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for iniquities; upon him was the punishment
that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed” (Isaiah 53:4,5).
So, John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the One who willingly gives himself for the sins of the people.
Note that this Lamb gives himself not only for the sins of Israel, but for the sins of the whole world.
From the very beginning, the writer of John’s Gospel has the universal effectiveness of the death of
Jesus in mind.
A second element of this identification of Jesus is also important. John the Baptist states in verse 30 that
Jesus is greater because “He was before me.” Scholars remind us that “Before me” means that the One
incarnated as Jesus existed before John the Baptist (John 1:1, 2), who was born before Jesus in the
Gospel of Luke and is assumed to be older. Thus, in these two verses, the writer of John’s Gospel
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affirms two key things about Jesus: as the Lamb of God, he does away with sin, and he can do this
because he is the One through whom God made the world.
There is still another significant element here in the identification of Jesus. John the Baptist pointed to
the fact that Jesus is the giver of the Spirit. The Baptist said, “I, myself, did not know him, but the One
who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the
One who baptizes with the Holy Spirit (John 1:33). John the Baptist is saying that the purpose of his
ministry of baptizing with water is finally to make the identity of Christ known to others. The Baptist
goes on to say that he saw the Spirit descend on Jesus as a dove. While the other Gospels tell us that the
Spirit descended on Christ at his baptism, the writer of John’s Gospel speaks only of the coming of the
Spirit.
The point is that Jesus has the Spirit of God in ways that others do not. Jesus has a role in the unfolding
of God’s plan that prophets such as Joel looked forward to (Joel 2:28,29; same verses quoted in Acts
2:17,18 on the Day of Pentecost). Thus, Jesus Christ is the mediator of the Spirit, of the presence of God
in the lives of those who follow Him. John the Baptist says that what he has seen demonstrated that
Jesus is the Son of God. He represents God and God’s purposes to the world.
Insights Renewed
1. John the Baptist’s claim for believing in Jesus is a direct revelation. Our grounds for believing in
Jesus are scripture and the witness of the church. We also have the experience of God in our
lives mediated to us in Christ.
2. Christ is the mediator of the Spirit, the One who brings the power of God to us.
3. John’s baptism has value because it is a sign of repentance, a demonstration of the person’s
commitment to live for God and to receive forgiveness.
4. The baptism that comes from Jesus is quite different. Rather than being an act of something the
baptized does, Jesus brings a baptism in which God is the primary actor. Christ baptizes
believers with the Holy Spirit, which brings the presence of God into the deepest levels of our
lives.
5. It is clear that New Testament writers expect that everyone who has joined the Christian
community through baptism will have the Spirit living in them.
6. Whatever else, baptism itself is a symbol of the beginning of a new life lived in the presence of
God and with the help of God.
Our Baptism
Baptism is essentially something that God does!
When things were rough and he needed encouragement for his faith, Martin Luther would put his finger
to his forehead and say, “I’m baptized.” This is to say, “God loves me and always has and that God
loves me and always will…”
Baptism tells us who we are!
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When we ask in desperation, “Who in God’s name am I?” As someone observed, “Baptism has the
water running down our faces and words saying, “You are, in God’s name, royalty.”
Baptism inaugurates our own ministry!
It is Jesus’ baptism that inaugurates his ministry. It is our baptism that inaugurates our ministry.
Action Plan:


Discuss the testimony of John the Baptist concerning the identity of Jesus.
In what ways are class members living out their baptismal covenant?
Dr. Hal Brady is a retired pastor who continues to present the Good News of Jesus Christ and offer
encouragement in a fresh and vital way though Hal Brady Ministries.
Jesus promises an Advocate
Sunday school lesson for the week of March 8, 2015
By Dr. Hal Brady
Scripture: John 14:15-26
How often we repeat the third article in the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in the Holy Spirit…” yet
numbers of us are hazy by what we mean. We do not understand the potential of our own confession.
Chapters 14-17 of John are acknowledged as the “Farewell Discourse.” The Farewell Discourse is part
of John’s story of the Last Supper. At the conclusion of the supper and just prior to their departure for
Gethsemane, Jesus explains to the disciples that he is about to leave them. He will no longer be in their
midst as they have experienced him during his ministry. But he assures them that they will not be alone.
God will be with them and so will Christ, though in a different way. Thus, our scripture lesson today is
the first explanation of the coming of the Spirit in the Farewell Discourse.
Obedience is not an option!
Having just told the disciples he is leaving them, but giving assurance that he will be an advocate for
them before God, Jesus now tells the disciples how they must respond. Jesus says, “If you love me, you
will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). This directive is made clear in three more verses of this
lesson (14:21, 23, 24).
Jesus has declared his love for his own, demonstrated his love for his own and commanded his own to
love one another. Now, for the first time in John’s Gospel, he speaks of their love for Him, “If you love
me,” he says, “you will keep my commandments.” In other words, you will live a life of love.
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In reality, there is only one true test of love, and that is obedience or faithfulness. Running all through
John’s Gospel is an uncompromising connection between love of Christ and obedience to Christ. How
did Jesus demonstrate his love for God? He obeyed God. How did Jesus want these disciples to
demonstrate their love for him after he was gone? By their obedience! And the same is true for Jesus’
disciples today.
John links loving Christ and obeying Christ’s commands, together. The way to show love for Christ is
by obeying his commands.
What about obedience to Christ? As far as his commands go, Jesus does not have a simple list in mind.
The writer of John’s Gospel does not intend that we search back through the Gospel to find particular
commands. Rather, John wants us to orient our lives toward the will of God as it is seen in Christ. We,
as disciples, are to conduct the whole of our lives in the way Christ lived his life. Consequently, both the
words and the life of Jesus set the pattern of living that we can identify as the “commands” of Jesus.
It has been pointed out that we can best understand this notion of obedience within the context of our
own relationships. We know that relationships come with expectations. These expectations sometimes
impose a burden, but one we find acceptable because of our love for the other person. These
expectations may come in the form of avoiding certain behaviors or taking up new ways of acting. But
adhering to these expectations becomes a way of showing respect and love for the other person. The
“commands” of Jesus are expectations that come from One who loves us. And they are not just what
Jesus wants for us, but what he knows are best for our lives.
So, why is this previous discussion important? It is important because the presence of Christ in
believer’s lives demands that these persons live the proper kind of life. If they live in this way, Christ
promises them another Comforter. In essence, the Spirit will fill the void left by the presence of Jesus in
the lives of those who keep his commands.
The Spirit as Advocate
The NRSV translation says that Jesus will send another “Advocate,” while the CEB translation states
that Jesus will send another “Companion.” Scholars tell us that the Greek word, Parakletos (often
transliterated “Paraclete”) here in John’s Gospel can mean a number of things. It comes from a verbal
root that describes someone “called alongside” or someone “called in to help.” It may describe One who
encourages others or gives them comfort. But it may also designate someone who advocates for others.
The CEB translates the term as it does because the Spirit keeps the disciples from being left alone. The
Spirit serves as the continuing presence of God among the disciples.
But the Spirit also serves another function. God’s Spirit is the “Spirit of truth.” The world does not
recognize or accept the Spirit because it does not recognize the truth about Christ and the knowledge of
God he brings. According to Jesus, the Spirit will embrace the community of believers so that they will
understand Christ and experience the renewing presence of God. After his departure, Jesus will be
present to his disciples in a way the rest of the world cannot perceive. The people who obey his
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commands are the ones Christ will continue to be with. The promise of the continuing presence of Christ
in the Spirit is contingent on the proper responses to the gift of salvation.
The Spirit as Assurance
As Jesus informs the disciples that he is leaving them, he also informs them that he will not be absent
from them. He will be present with them through the Spirit as another Paraclete (someone “called
alongside to assist”). It is the Spirit, as “Helper”, that gives believers assurance of the presence of God in
their lives.
Scholars suggest that the writer of John’s Gospel expects the readers to experience the seeming absence
of Christ in different ways. Therefore, this word from Jesus provides significant encouragement. Jesus
makes it clear that despite what the outward circumstances may look like, or even feel like, believers are
not alone. God has not deserted them. If they remain faithful, God promises to be with them.
As Bishop Paulo Lockman, President of the World Methodist Council observed, “We are not alone, it is
not feeling or seeing, but having faith in Jesus’ promise that he will always be with us.” And not only is
God present with us (believers) now, but the Spirit gives assurance of our continuing and future life with
God. It is the Spirit in our lives, as “Helper,” that renews and grows this confidence.
The Spirit as an Aid in Discernment
We are reminded that when John calls the Spirit the “Spirit of truth” (14:17), he means that the Spirit not
only possesses God’s truth, but also communicates that truth to believers. And this promise of the
presence of the Spirit of truth (the interpreter of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection) reaches beyond the
immediate circle of disciples to the church itself. Granted, the church has sometimes turned a deaf ear to
the voice of the Spirit, nevertheless, Jesus promises that the Spirit will continue to assist the church in
discerning the word and will of God. That’s the thought in verse 26 when it states that the spirit will
teach them “everything” and remind Jesus’ followers of all that he taught.
The late Henri Nouwen helps us here. Among other things, he says, “Spiritual discernment comes from
the spirit of God. The human side is the concentrated effort to create sacred time and empty space, as
well as concrete structures and boundaries, where God can speak to us.”
In conclusion, it should be deeply encouraging to us, both as individuals and as the church, that God
continues to labor within us and among us. Thanks be to God!
Action Plan:


In terms of the Holy Spirit, discuss the importance of obedience.
What does Jesus tell the disciples about the Holy Spirit?
Dr. Hal Brady is a retired pastor who continues to present the Good News of Jesus Christ and offer
encouragement in a fresh and vital way though Hal Brady Ministries.
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OBITUARIES
Rev. Joseph Aaron Kelley
Joseph Aaron Kelley, 80, went home to be with Jesus on February 3, 2015.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Grace Kelley of 54 plus years; three children, Kathi Renee Walker
(Scott) of Bolingbroke, Traci Dawn Gonzales (Larry) of San Antonio, and Bethani Grace Berlanga
(David) of San Antonio; five grandchildren, Brian Walker, Brendan Walker (Rachel), Kyle Gonzales
(Alisha), Joey Gonzales (Kisa), and Skylar Gonzales, and two great-grandchildren, Sofia Gonzales and
Jase Gonzales; and several nieces and nephews. He is also
survived by his brother, James Kelley, Jones County. His caregiver, Jamie Robillard, was also very
valuable with his assistance and care for Joe for the past year and a half, and we do appreciate him very
much.
Joe's parents, William Lazarus Kelley and Sara Boone Kelley; three brothers, Paul, Henry, John, and
son, Joseph Aaron Kelley, Jr., preceded him in death.
Joe was a United Methodist minister and served churches in the Macon, Americus, Statesboro,
Thomasville, and Valdosta districts of the South Georgia Conference, and participated in a ministerial
exchange with a minister in Jersey, Channel Islands, Great Britain. He also served for a time as a
Chaplain for Reidsville prison. The South Georgia Conference honored Joe and churches at three
different times with the Church of the Year Award. He was a veteran with the Army National Guard,
and was the host for a public television station called "Macon Now" for a few years. Joe received
degrees from colleges at Andrew, Ga. Southern, Ga. Southwestern, Ga. Tech, and Emory Divinty
School in Atlanta.
Joe's body was dedicated to Med Cure for medical research. He had been an invalid for a number of
years without a definitive diagnosis and the family hopes research might help others with similar
symptoms.
A service honoring his life was held at Liberty United Methodist Church at 6511 Houston Road,
Saturday February 7, at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a rescue group for animals of your choice or the Building
Fund of Liberty United Methodist Church, 6511 Houston Rd 31216.
Family can be contacted at the home or by email: [email protected]
Rev. William Lewis Oliver, Jr.
South Georgia lost a valuable citizen, father, educator, and minister on February 4, 2015, when William
Lewis Oliver, Jr. (Bill) passed away. Bill was born on December 26, 1930, in Cairo, Georgia, to William
Lewis and Sara Bray Oliver, both deceased. He graduated from Cairo High School in 1948, attended
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Emory Junior College at Valdosta, Georgia, in the fall of that year. Afterwards, he attended Emory
University in Atlanta, but his education was interrupted when he saw the need to join the United States
Air Force Reserve at Dobbins AFB in Marietta, Georgia. On March 10, 1951, his unit was activated into
full-time service during the Korean War. He was stationed for approximately a month at McDill AFB,
Tampa, Florida, but he received his basic training at Ramey AFB in Puerto Rico. He was a member of
the 55th and 72nd Reconnaissance Technical Squadron, which provided aerial surveillance of Korea for
the US military. In Cheyenne, Wyoming he was selected to serve as Administrative Aide to
Commanding Officer, Colonel Abraham E. Wayshak, one of the military’s most respected specialists in
aerial photography.
Bill returned to Emory University after his discharge, and in the spring of 1954, he graduated with a
major in Political Science and a minor in Journalism. At Emory he made life-long friendships as a
member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, for which he served as Rush Chair.
His work experience included a year of work at Northside Furniture Company in Atlanta and an eleven
year partnership with his father in their family-owned business at Trend Shop in Cairo, Georgia. While
working at Trend Shop, he met his wife, Naomi Glenn, whom he married on November 8, 1958. Bill
and Naomi had two children, Anne Marie and William Lewis Oliver, III (Lew).
In August 1966, Bill began working as a vocational counselor at Florida State University in Tallahassee,
Florida, and in 1974 he became FSU’s first Director of Cooperative Education in the Division of Student
Affairs. In November 1974, after an earlier spiritual calling, he and Naomi both received a simultaneous
call to ministry. He left his job at FSU and began preparation for ministry, attending the summer Course
of Studies program at Candler Theological Seminary, Emory University. From 1975 until 1977, he
served as pastor of the Metcalf-Bethpage charge of the United Methodist Church. Shortly afterwards, he
also was asked to become Executive Director of Vashti Center in Thomasville, Georgia. In 1978, he
took his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, with a minor in Human Systems (Psychology), from Florida
State University. His dissertation topic was Doak E. Campbell, Educator. Dr. Campbell was a former
president of Florida State University.
In 1984 Bill was appointed pastor of the United Methodist Church of Califon, New Jersey, where Naomi
began attending Graduate School at nearby Drew University. Bill also served as Director of Pastoral
Care at Glen Gardner Geriatrics Center, later known as Hagedorn Geriatrics Center. The Olivers
returned to Georgia, and Bill served as pastor of the Mt. Vernon-Ailey-Long Pond charge.
In August 1990, Bill was asked to become the first Executive Director of a ministry to service Mentally
Challenged individuals, which was to become Wesley Glen Ministries of Albany, Georgia. As a result of
Bill’s strategic presentation to the Board of Directors of Agape Village, they were convinced that their
52 acre facility should donated to Wesley Glen.
After retiring in June of 1996, from June 1997 to June 2000, Bill served as pastor to the Cairo Circuit
(Bold Springs, Woodland, and Friendship UMC) from June 1997 until June of 2000. The following year
he was appointed as pastor of the Baconton United Methodist Church.
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Bill’s outstanding qualities were his dedication to God and his desire to serve others, wherever God
chose to place him. He had an out-going nature and a kind and gentle spirit. He encouraged people to
believe in themselves. He was always excited about new ideas and changes which would forward the
cause of Christ. He also had a special ability for leadership and a charisma with people, sensing their
needs and elevating them to new heights.
Bill was fun-loving and humorous. He enjoyed new adventures and the great outdoors, especially hiking
in the mountains or surfing the waves at the beach. He cherished family picnics, cookouts, and holiday
get-togethers. He was an avid gardener, patiently nurturing his tender seedlings and cuttings, much as he
cared for his flock. He was a weather enthusiast. Perhaps his greatest pleasure might have been tracking
an imminent storm.
Bill is survived by his wife Naomi; their two children, Anne Marie Oliver and William Lewis Oliver, III
(Lew); three granddaughters, Elizabeth DeRoselle Oliver, Anna Kerem Oliver-Steinberg, Isabella
Oliver-Steinberg; a brother, Desaussure Ford Oliver; two nephews, Ford, and Wes Oliver; a niece, Kate
Oliver Maine (Bill); two first cousins, Joan Sykes, and Carolyn Broce (Fred); and other relatives.
Services were held on Friday, February 6, 2015 at the Cairo United Methodist Church Social Hall,
Cairo, GA. A second memorial service was held on Sunday, February 8, 2015, at Nacoochee United
Methodist Church. The family received friends on Sunday, February 8, 2015 in the Nacoochee United
Methodist Church sanctuary.
Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Vashti Center, 1815 East Clay Street, Thomasville,
Georgia 31792; Wesley Glen Ministries, 4580 North Mumford Road, Macon, Georgia 31210; or to
Regency Hospice, 236 South Main Street, P. O. Box 494, Hiawassee, Georgia 30546.
Rev. Hugh Lester Waldorf
Rev. Hugh Lester Waldorf age 76 of Forsyth passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, in his
home surrounded by family. A Celebration of Life was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 14, 2015,
at Forsyth United Methodist Church. Burial services were held at 3:00 p.m., at Liberty United Methodist
Church Cemetery, 6511 Houston Rd., Macon, GA. 31216. The family greeted friends from 6:00 p.m.
until 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 13, 2014, at Monroe County Memorial Chapel. The Rev. Steve
Waldorf, Rev. Ken Stephens, & Rev. Darris Baker officiated.
Hugh was preceded in death by his parents William & Annie Laurie (Lester) Waldorf, brothers Billy
Waldorf, Terry Waldorf, & nephew Michael Greek. He was born in Macon GA. on July 17, 1938.
Hugh was a retired Ordained United Methodist minister having served 5 churches over the course of 30
years; they included Liberty Hill UMC, Bloomfield UMC, Dixon UMC, First St. UMC, & Ingleside
UMC. He is currently a member of Forsyth UMC. He also retired from Robins AFB in 1994 after 36
years of service as an Electrical Engineer.
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Education included Lanier High School (1956), Georgia Institute of Technology (1962), & Emory
University School of Theology (1980). Survivors include his wife of 54 years Judy (Wilson) Waldorf;
son Mark (Sandy) Waldorf, daughter Laurie Ann (James) Smith, son John (Sherry) Waldorf, son Chris
Waldorf; sister-in-law Barbara Greek, 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, 3 nieces, & 2 nephews.
Hugh was also known as "Granddaddy" to countless children, foster children, & friends. A few of his
many interests & activities included mission work, Hospice Chaplain, woodworking, gardening,
marathon runner, camping, hiking, Boy Scout leader, hunting, coaching his son's baseball teams &
pitching for the church softball teams.
Memorial contributions may be made to Forsyth UMC, 68 West Johnston St. Forsyth, GA. 31029 or
Alzheimer's Disease Research 22512 Gateway Center Dr. Clarksburg, MD 20871.
(www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers)
Retired Clergy Birthdays – March
3/01 – Ralph Bailey: 9650 Lehigh St.; Savannah, GA 31406
3/01 – Charles Whatley: 2153 Bold Springs Rd.; Ochlocknee, GA 31773
3/02 – William Whipple: 2247 Eastway Rd.; Decatur, GA 30033
3/02 – Gene Yates: 154 Saint Clair Dr.; St Simons Island, GA 31522
3/03 – Richard Bishop: 292 Timberwind Dr.; Byron, GA 31008
3/03 – Thomas Williams: 1072 Lee Rd. 292; Smith’s Station, AL 36877
3/04 – Irie Cyree: 4402 Bridgewater Dr.; Phenix City, AL 36867
3/05 – Tim Paulk: 104 Lee Rd. 2153; Salem, AL 36874
3/06 – Ellison Whitt: 443 Les Smith Rd.; Ellaville, GA 31806
3/08 – Jarrell Lillard: 253 Paul Lockley Rd.; Lyons GA 30436
3/08 – Hugh Shirah: 139 Lee Road 554; Phenix City, AL 36867
3/09 – Grover Bell: 333 E. 53rd St.; Savannah, GA 31405
3/14 – Charles Rooks: 600 East 12th St.; Tifton, GA 31794
3/15 – Brenda Iglehart: P.O. Box 351; Woodbine, GA 31569
3/16 – Joel Dent: 1819 Pine Forest Cir.; Dublin, GA 31021
3/16 – Truett Leveritt
3/16 – Vance Mathis: 305 Jasmine Way; Bonaire, GA 31005
3/17 – George Durham: 844 Woods Hole Cr.; Statesboro, GA 30461
3/17 – David Seyle: 304 Causton Harbour Dr.; Savannah, GA 31404
3/18 – Tom Oliver: 511 Victory Dr.; Waynesboro, GA 30830
3/19 – James Snell, Jr.: 1590 Piney Grove Rd.; Loganville, GA 30052
3/20 – Ronnie Culpepper: 2848 Sue Mack Dr.; Columbus, GA 31906
3/20 – Dan MacMinn: 95 Harding St.; Waverly Hall, GA 31831
3/21 – Delia Steffen: 128 Cambridge Way; Macon, GA 31220
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3/22 – Beverly Flowers: 390 Brook Hollow Dr.; McDonough, GA 30252
3/23 – Jimmy Pennell: 2257 S. Lakeshore Dr.; Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
3/28 – Hal Brady: 36 Lullwater Estate; Atlanta, GA 30307
3/30 – Allen Brooks: 535 Hendley Cir.; Nashville, GA 31639
Scripture Readings – Feb. 16
February 18
Ash Wednesday
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
Psalm 51:1-17
2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
February 22
First Sunday in Lent
Genesis 9:8-17
Psalm 25:1-10
1 Peter 3:18-22
Mark 1:9-15
March 1
Second Sunday in Lent
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
Psalm 22:23-31
Romans 4:13-25
Mark 8:31-38
March 8
Third Sunday in Lent
Exodus 20:1-17
Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
John 2:13-22
MAYBE SO …
Dear Editor,
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We “stepped into the 20th Century” here at Utmost United Methodist Church – some of the younger
members requested Internet service throughout the building.
The Venture Sunday School Class sent the proposal asking that WiFi be made available, and said they
would fund its installation. Will Notley went to the meeting of the Trustees because he knew it would be
on the agenda.
Will immediately spoke against it. “We don’t need that wifey (sic) mess in this church building,” he
said. “It is the work of the Devil! Don’t y’all read the newspaper? Just look at all the heartache and
problems it brings about.”
Mr. I. C. Clearly said, “Will, most of us understand that with each new venture there are negative as well
as positive sides. Fire, which is not new, is an example. It can injure and destroy as well as help and
entertain. How it is used makes the difference.”
Barry Tone, our choir director helped to carry the day. “Just as we have an alarm system in the church,
we will have Internet protection controls,” he said. “Our youth and children’s music program could
greatly benefit from a good wireless connection.”
After thorough discussion, the motion passed.
Until next time…
Homer Heardmore
Rhodes Crossing, Ga.
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