Weekly Prayer – May 31, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 31, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

Ah … summer! Thank you, God, for the season of summer vacation! Even for those who are not ‘in school,’ there seems to be an energy in the air. A spirit of relaxation, a spirit of exploring, a spirit of anticipating good things! Thank you for this shift in our spiritual atmosphere! 

We also know how quickly high expectations for a season can be dashed by one small thing. So we pray for realistic expectations! We pray for patience and for understanding! May family gatherings be nurturing …. May visits between grandparents and grandchildren be life-giving to both …. Give parents the courage to be honest with their children about budgets and expenses … give us the eyesight to see the beauty and joy in front of us ….  

We put so much pressure on ourselves to make everything ‘picture perfect.’ Keep us mindful of the people around us and that your grace that abounds. You love us as we are; may we extend that same grace to ourselves and others. 

We pray for our Bishop and the District Superintendents this weekend as they prepare for Holston Annual Conference on Sunday. May our clergy and lay members be inspired and renewed as they worship, pray, and fellowship together. We thank you for this church, gracious God. We thank you for the worship that happens on Sunday mornings in the nave and online and how it connects us to each other through the week. 

May the words we speak and sing on Sundays, transform our very beings throughout the week. 

We pray for …

  • The families of all those involved in the crash at the corner of Henley & Main today.
  • A son who is beginning chemotherapy for colon cancer. So far, he has tolerated it well. Prayers for the next six months that this treatment brings healing.
  • A wife (and new grandmother) recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Chemo treatments begin soon. Prayers for healing.
  • A friend who is having to move to Arkansas to be with family. Prayers for safe travels and prayers for discernment about next steps and how long. Prayers for peace about the future.
  • A family who is grieving a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother who brought joy to all! Thankful for peaceful passing into Light Eternal and for the JOY she gave and leaves behind!
  • A joyous and safe Parish Youth Choir Tour; prayers for all of the singers and leaders. May they be a blessing to all they meet!

We offer thanksgivings for …

  • Those who loaded ‘food buckets’ and got them to Cokesbury UMC this morning. Praying for the families in Zimbabwe who will receive them in a few months.
  • Being able to attend grandchild’s graduation; thankful for good health to travel.
  • Healthy pregnancy; prayers for little ones as they grow!
  • Prayers of thanksgiving for the medical technology and all the tests and advances that reveal better information sooner; but also prayers as people process the information. Prayers for discernment and guidance for doctors and all who interpret information for us.

We continue to pray for …

  • A young father who will have surgery on June 8 to remove abdominal tumor; prayers that this surgery plus the chemotherapy brings healing to his body. Prayers for him and his family.
  • A friend who had been hospitalized; prayers for healing from MRSA.
  • A young woman whose husband’s funeral was Sunday. They held a funeral for their infant son three years ago. Lord, in your mercy ….
  • A mother and wife in the hospital with pneumonia; prayers for oxygen levels to increase. 

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Senior Spotlight – Rachel Duncan

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One of our favorite things about the spring semester each year is celebrating our graduating seniors.  Welcome to the Senior Spotlight series for the graduating class of 2023!  Our seniors answered interview questions earlier this semester and it has been so much fun learning their answers! Check back in each week to get to know our seniors better and help to cheer them on as they wrap up high school and prepare for their next steps.

Meet Rachel Duncan!

What high school are you graduating from?
West High School
What are your plans for next year?
I plan to go to UT and study Plant Sciences with a minor in Design Studies.
What is your favorite bible verse?
Philippians 4:8-9
If you could choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A breakfast burrito with green chile
If you could give some advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t overthink things
What are your top 3 favorite movies?
My Cousin Vinny, While You Were Sleeping, The Quiet Man
What is your top book recommendation?
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot
What is your favorite Church Street memory?
The scavenger hunt we did at mad in the city last summer
What are you most excited about going into the next season of your life?
Taking interesting classes and meeting new people!
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Summer Update 2023

Weekly Schedule: 
Worship – Sundays, 8:30AM & 11:00AM
Sunday school – Sundays, 9:45-10:45AM
Bible Study – Wednesdays, 10:00-11:00AM

Hello friends! What a JOY it was to serve alongside so many of you during MAD in the City last week. I cannot really put into words how special the week was. Thank you for serving with generosity and enthusiasm. I’m so proud of you and grateful to be in ministry with you.

If you want a look at what MAD was all about, click below to see the photo album!

This week, our schedule is light. But join us for Bible Study! And we lift up all our students who attend year round schools who are returning to their regular schedules over the next couple of weeks. You can do it!

  • Bible Study – Wednesday from 10:00-11:00. Join Jenny on the porch as we continue our Wesley Prayer Challenge.

MAD Photo Album

Looking Ahead

Mark your calendars for these exciting upcoming events! As always, if you have any questions, contact Jenny!

July 25 – Hang Time (5:00 PM in the Youth Area)

August 6 – Smokies Game (2:00 PM at Smokies Stadium)

August 13 – Promotion Pep Rally (9:45 AM in the Gym)

August 20 – Confirmation Orientation (9:45 AM in the Youth Are)

August 20 – Youth Kick-Off (5:00 PM in Parish Hall)

August 27 – First NightLife (5:00 PM in the Youth Area)

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Senior Spotlight – Alana Johnson

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One of our favorite things about the spring semester each year is celebrating our graduating seniors.  Welcome to the Senior Spotlight series for the graduating class of 2023!  Our seniors answered interview questions earlier this semester and it has been so much fun learning their answers! Check back in each week to get to know our seniors better and help to cheer them on as they wrap up high school and prepare for their next steps.

Meet Alana Johnson!

What high school are you graduating from?
West High School
What are your plans for next year?
Double Majoring in Musical Theatre and English at Western Carolina University
What is your favorite bible verse?
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
If you could choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Stefano’s Pizza and Cinnamon Sticks
If you could give some advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t value other people’s opinions over your own happiness
What are your top 3 favorite movies?
Love Simon Booksmart Brave
What is your top book recommendation?
One Last Stop
What is your favorite Church Street memory?
8th grade choir tour in New York
What are you most excited about going into the next season of your life?
Making new friends
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Weekly Prayer – May 24, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 24, 2023

Rev. Andy Ferguson

Fire-giving God, on the day before long-ago Pentecost, 

You looked down on all you had created: 

     –a universe beyond measure, 

     –a world of sustained beauty and productivity, 

     –creatures great and small. 

You looked down on the followers of your Son: 

     –hiding for fear of their lives, 

     –hopeless in the face of the Cross and his crucifixion, 

     –trying to comprehend the news that the Savior Son again lives — resurrection! 

In the days before Pentecost… 

 

Most days, just now, it seems that we still live in the days before Pentecost, 

     As if your Spirit Fire did not fall to empower believers like us. 

In countries across the globe, families still hide 

     for fear of war outside their doors. 

     –In Ukraine, Syria and sub-Saharan Africa death fills the air. 

     –Let them breathe freedom again at the falling of the Spirit’s Fire. 

Families up and down Central America live in hopelessness today: 

     –Gangs of criminals make their lives a living hell, 

     –Corrupt governments look the other way in the face of injustice, 

     –Jobs in their home countries are impossible to find and keep. 

We struggle to comprehend how lives are changed now that the Savior Son lives. 

     He was raised on long ago Easter, so why is life still fragile? 

     Why is chatter about the Resurrection reserved for graveyard ceremonies? 

     What does that long-ago Pentecost mean for this world? This time? This day? 

 

 Fire-giving God, as you sent tongues of fire to fall on disciples long ago, 

     Send fire again to fall on all who still believe. 

Set us on fire for the Savior Son, Jesus the Christ, 

     That we might be part of building a world 

     Of such peace that the warriors will lay down their arms in awe. 

     That those who watch their children suffer will see a new day dawning. 

Give us such an experience of the Spirit falling 

     That we too must run to tell what God has done, 

     That we might live in Pentecost hope as they did. 

We pray in the name of Jesus, who sent the Spirit Fire after him. Amen. 

We pray for ….

  • Third graders who are having a difficult time this week; prayers for parents. Please God, help our teachers not feel judged.
  • A niece who has been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Bless her in her work (chaplain with hospice patients) as she deals with her own struggles.
  • Caregivers who feel torn in so many directions; prayers of thanksgiving for those who understand.
  • A safe delivery of baby boy
  • God’s peace while waiting on medical procedures and results
  • A member waiting on diagnosis in hospital; prayers for doctors as they find the right protocol
  • A dear friend who is battling so many demons; pray that he will listen to God’s Voice.
  • Families going through all of the transitions of graduation and moving up and leaving home
  • Safe travels for a son who is moving today; grateful for supportive and loving parents to help!
  • A member in hospice care and her husband who cares for her; strength for both.
  • A family friend who has been in hospital for ten days; praying that the surgery yesterday to remove MRSA infection is successful and will bring healing.

We continue to pray for …

  • The precious child at Children’s Hospital who has had ups and downs since his tracheotomy. Prayers for weary parents. Lord, in your mercy, provide tangible signs of hope and healing.
  • A member recovering after surgery
  • Clarity from doctors and patience while we wait for a medical answers and direction
  • A young wife as she and family prepare for funeral of husband this weekend

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …..

  • Summer vacation! Please let everyone have a good summer! 
  • Our church family
  • The joy a new baby brings

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Senior Spotlight – Sara Logan Cada

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One of our favorite things about the spring semester each year is celebrating our graduating seniors.  Welcome to the Senior Spotlight series for the graduating class of 2023!  Our seniors answered interview questions earlier this semester and it has been so much fun learning their answers! Check back in each week to get to know our seniors better and help to cheer them on as they wrap up high school and prepare for their next steps.

Meet Sara Logan!

What high school are you graduating from?
West High School
What are your plans for next year?
Tennessee-Knoxville with a major in supply chain management!
What is your favorite bible verse?
Proverbs 3:5-6
If you could choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
So hard, but I’m gonna have to go with spaghetti and meatballs
If you could give some advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t let other peoples opinions dictate who you are!
What are your top 3 favorite movies?
Batman, Cinderella, and 10 Things I Hate About You
What is your top book recommendation?
A Night Divided
What is your favorite Church Street memory?
Singing Wagon Wheel during MAD in the City! I can still remember the chills
What are you most excited about going into the next season of your life?
Making new friends and being able to further my faith in a new environment!
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End of the Year Reflection

Almost Summer!

It’s hard to believe this school year is coming to a close and summer is nearly here. We have lots of exciting things going on this summer — MAD in the City, Operation Backyard, Bible studies, Hang Times. But before we jump right into what is next, let’s take a moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the year we are finishing.

Here are some questions to help you look back and practice gratitude for all God has done this school year.

  1. Where have you experienced growth this year?
  2. Can you think of a time when you experienced peace even though your circumstances were stressful? What was that like?
  3. How has your faith changed since August?
  4. What are you thankful for that happened this school year? Pause and make a list. And add to it as things come to mind over the days ahead.
  5. What is something you are hopeful about in the summer ahead?

If you would like to reflect alongside the Psalms, here are some recommendations:

  • Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd
  • Psalm 27 – The Lord is My Light and My Salvation
  • Psalm 46 – God is Our Fortress
  • Psalm 61 – Lead Me to the Rock
  • Psalm 80 – Restore Us, O God
  • Psalm 91 – My Refuge and My Fortress
  • Psalm 95 – Let Us Sing Songs of Praise
  • Psalm 103 – Bless the Lord, O My Soul
  • Psalm 139 – Search Me, O God, and Know My Heart

More details for summer are coming. But for now, let us pause, pray, and praise. God is good and worthy of our worship.

Grace and peace,

Jenny

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Senior Spotlight – Reese Wineland

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One of our favorite things about the spring semester each year is celebrating our graduating seniors.  Welcome to the Senior Spotlight series for the graduating class of 2023!  Our seniors answered interview questions earlier this semester and it has been so much fun learning their answers! Check back in each week to get to know our seniors better and help to cheer them on as they wrap up high school and prepare for their next steps.

Meet Reese Wineland!

What high school are you graduating from?
Webb School of Knoxville
What are your plans for next year?
Attending the University of South Carolina
What is your favorite bible verse?
1 Peter 5:7
If you could choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chili
If you could give some advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Keep pushing forward and don’t give up!
What are your top 3 favorite movies?
1. Clueless 2. Legally Blonde 3. Howl’s Moving Castle
What is your top book recommendation?
Truth Be Told by Sue Divin
What is your favorite Church Street memory?
SLA 2022
What are you most excited about going into the next season of your life?
Meeting new people and discovering my interests.
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Senior Spotlight – Kitely Sherman

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One of our favorite things about the spring semester each year is celebrating our graduating seniors.  Welcome to the Senior Spotlight series for the graduating class of 2023!  Our seniors answered interview questions earlier this semester and it has been so much fun learning their answers! Check back in each week to get to know our seniors better and help to cheer them on as they wrap up high school and prepare for their next steps.

Meet Kitely Sherman!

What high school are you graduating from?
Hardin Valley Academy
What are your plans for next year?
Agnes Scott College: majoring in Political Science
What is your favorite bible verse?
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
If you could choose one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Anything my mom makes!
If you could give some advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t rush the growing up
What are your top 3 favorite movies?
Little Women (2019), Tangled, Knives Out
What is your top book recommendation?
The Year of Magical Thinking
What is your favorite Church Street memory?
Joining youth group in 6th grade :,)
What are you most excited about going into the next season of your life?
Meeting new people and places to love!
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Weekly Prayer – May 17, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 17, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

O God of Alpha and Omega, God of Beginnings and Endings and Beginning Again, we can hear the strains of Pomp and Circumstance in the air and see mortarboards being tossed towards the heavens. Students are relieved and giddy; parents are relieved and tearful. Whether the graduate is a three-year old moving up to Pre-K or a young adult receiving a hood, we are grateful for your presence in their lives and in ours.  

When we move through milestones – and what is sometimes harder – watching children move through milestones, we take time to give thanks for the ways you have been with us along the way. 

The month of May brings memories and hopes and always a bit of heartache. We pray for teachers who have done their very best this year. We pray for teachers who wish they could do more and for teachers who are wondering if they still have the spark. We pray for those who teach and lead at colleges and universities; institutions which used to be places for exploration and hard questions but are now under such scrutiny. We think of students for whom school is their safe place and for others who are already dreading next school year. O God of Compassion, put the right people in paths of those who need to hear an encouraging word.  

Some joyously celebrated Mother’s Day last week and others were grieving. You know all the stories, O God. You know the desires and the disappointments and the celebrations. We pray for new mothers who are hoping for so much and for older mothers who long for their children. Mother’s Day and Decoration Day and Memorial Day … so many opportunities for celebration and honoring precious memories. We are grateful. But we are also human and know that we can break one another’s heart; and yours. Forgive us when we do not reflect the grace that you bestow. 

Fill the world with the hope that swells when we hear bands play at graduation! A drumroll and the crescendo of the horns opens our ears and hearts and spirits to possibilities. The signs of “congratulations” and balloons we pass in the neighborhood make us want to start over and do better. Forgive us when we look back with regret; fill us with “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow!” May we see your blessings all around us and be thankful! 

There are many concerns, O Lord! Church members have poured out their heart knowing that there is strength and healing when we say the words, “please pray for me…” So, in the newness of spring and the glory of your presence, we offer thanks for the gift of prayer. 

We pray for …..

  • A son who has had legal issues for the past several years; finally having a court date this week. Prayers for resolution.
  • Our high school seniors .. may all of them continue to listen to God’s plan for their lives. May they walk in their faith and be mindful of the blessings they are!
  • Friends who have asked for prayers – friends who are struggling with health or financial or relationship issues
  • That we would stay healthy and full of your purpose for these times.
  • A husband who is struggling with grief over his father’s death. Prayers that he can find his way and know God’s calming presence. Prayers for employment that fills his soul with happiness. 
  • A member who asks for good mental and physical health – for clarity. Prayers as she faces knee replacement surgery that she not be filled with worry and anxiety. Prayers for peace.
  • A young wife whose husband died unexpectedly this week; prayers for peace about the future.
  • Couples who are going through difficult times
  • Parents who are trying to balance all the things!
  • A family who is grieving the loss of a dear pet

We offer thanksgiving for ….

  • Successful surgery for the child with tracheotomy; thankful he and his family are adapting and growing in love. Prayers now for increased muscle strength and that he can get off of the vent.
  • Grandparents who were able to visit a granddaughter who has come through difficult surgery
  • Members of the Congregational Care Committee; thankful for the cards and letters and contact they ensure for homebound members.
  • Healthy grandbabies delivered!

We continue to pray for ….

  • Those who are grieving
  • A dear mother in rehab
  • A newborn in NICU – thankful for weight gain!

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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