Blaylock Christmas Party

November 28th, 2006 The moving target that we have been calling the Christmas Party is now settled on a firm date [so for all of you that could not make it on the 16th, hopefully this date will work better for you]. Mark your calendars and make plans now to be there for the fun & fellowship! Here are the details: WHEN: December 9th WHERE: Home of Dennis & Kristi Rikard TIME: 5:30 pm CHILDCARE: I am not 100% sure of the details, but child care will be available. [Can someone in the group who knows more about this please send out a message with details, cost, etc?] SIGN UP SHEET: Debra Atkins will have the sign up sheet in class this Sunday. Please feel free to call Debra at 662-429-1966 if you happen to miss the sign up sheet and want to know what you can bring. DIRECTIONS: Here is a Mapquest link with directions from Desoto Hills to the Rikard’s home. Their phone number is 662-781-2445, just in case. Hope to see everyone there!!!

We Owe Him All Our Praise and Thanksgiving

November 19th, 2006 Happy Thanksgiving Week everybody! Our God is so very good and we realize we owe Him all our praise and thanksgiving when we look past all the minor pain and inconveniences we all experience. I do not know about you guys, but I am most thankful that through the gift of Jesus, I am already living in eternity and all the bad stuff here on earth are just temporary speed bumps on my trip to Heaven. Look past your salvation this week and you will see that God has given you much more than you deserve! I really missed being in class and in service this past Sunday…just felt like something was missing in my life not sharing in the fellowship of my brothers and sisters. I hope you had a great turn out and a great class. I was fortunate to be at the Dedication Ceremony so I at least got a little dose of Desoto Hills yesterday!! As of today, I have not seen any of the prayer requests from anyone so I am just going to ask everyone to pray for our class and our church this week that we will all be dedicated to touching the world around us with the love of Christ. That was the theme of dedicating the church yesterday, that we as the church will be dedicated to serving and loving others so that our Lord’s church will thrive and grow and reach others in this community. Pray that our church will hold tight to this dedication so that we can be an effective church for Jesus. And speaking of outreach, I am not sure if any of our recent visitors were back this Sunday but here is a list of those that have been visiting recently. Please make sure that introduce yourself and welcome our new families: Jason & Brandy Dunavant Laura & Chad Montgomery Jonathan & Amye Dean Brad & Shelly Harrison Michael & Lori Albers -mmsalbers@aol. com Bill & Stacie Gill – itchygill@juno. com I look forward to being back in class and service next week and I hope you all have a blessed, fun, & safe Thanksgiving week wherever you may be! Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! ** SPECIAL NOTICES ** Wednesday Nights – The Beth Moore Study on “Daniel” NOW MEETS AT 6 pm, not 6:30. Christmas Party for Blaylock Bunch – I have no idea if this has been worked out yet, but I think the Avent’s have volunteered to host us this year.Tentative date is December 8th, each family will need to bring a 2 liter drink, a food sign up sheet will be passed around, and will need to bring 2 ornaments for the dirty Santa exchange. TV Ministry needs people to operate cameras in the worship services. Please contact Arthur Smith or call the church office at 890-2452 if you are interested. Membership Roll – there is an updated member roll on the Welcome Center table in the Grand Hall. The list was compiled from the commitment cards turned in by those moving from Carriage Hills, as well as those who have joined since coming to Getwell. Please check the list and contact the church office if your name is missing. SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR November 22 – No Wednesday Activities or Classes November 23 & 24 – Church Office Closed December 7 & 8 – “I’ll be Home for Christmas” dinner theater & auction December 17 – “Carols by Candlelight” Adult Choir Musical December 24 – Morning Worship only December 31 – Regular Morning worship schedule, special evening service with “Paid in Full” trio as special guests January 7 – Changing to two worship service, 1st Worship & SS at 9 am; 2nd Worship & SS at 10:30 am Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s 6th Grade Choir – 5:15 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Time – for adults with the pastor at 6 pm Wednesday’s in the Prayer Tower Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s BOOST – Mid Week Youth Service 6:30 pm Wednesday’s in the Attic Power-Aide – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s – a mid-week spiritual boost for adults with curriculum based classes for equipping the saints for the work of the ministry through spiritual maturity PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Bob Benson – Praise for a fun bonding weekend with my youngest son Hunter and for safe travels to and from Atlanta Kelley Benson – praise that her Mom is doing 100% better after having two stints put in heart last Monday HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Mike Mangialardi – prayer for his friend Jim Martin who is having many kidney problems and may have to start dialysis soon Heather Schreiner/Mom – her Mom has been diagnosed with cancer Jay Hasselman – Mom is having pain in her hip that has kept her in bed for 3 weeks, doctors cannot find out what is wrong. She is a teacher and is trying to decide if she should retire or not. Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim is back in the hospital but they still are not sure what is causing his illness and there is still the possibility that it is a hereditary problem that may require that he be put on the liver transplant list at some point. Dee Church/Blac – doctors have found a thyroid problem and will have to monitor closely Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – back in the hospital with pneumonia, continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery from his coma and that the family will be given wisdom for his care in these difficult times. Jeff Cain – Kenny Garrison, Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer PRAYER NEEDS Gary Blaylock – prayer for the class as we grow, that we will minister to those in our class family Cathy Chandler – please continue to keep Jeri Hunter lifted up. Sonja Dickey – seeking to change jobs, pray the Lord will open doors for her Derek Chandler – prayer for Cathy who has been stressing about acceptance to nursing school SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

Good Cooks, Great Atmosphere and New Friends

November 5th, 2006 Was Sunday a great day or what? A full classroom, a full worship service, and a full belly among friends. Does it get much better than that? We had a great picnic at the Adkins house…it has been much too long since we had a social and I forgot how much fun they are. Bill and Debra, thanks so much for opening your home to our class family! The kids seemed to have had a blast, and it was a reminder of how many good cooks we have in this group. I hope we all start getting together more often like that because it is a great atmosphere for us to get to know our new friends that are coming into our family and a chance to catch up on our long time friends. If you were not there, please know that we missed your company and look forward to spending time with you at the next gathering. And speaking of the next gathering, has anyone started making plans for a Christmas Party….anyone want to step up and accept the role as our social coordinator? Let Gary and the class know if you have a heart for this ministry. What a blessing it is to see new faces coming into our classroom! It is even more of a blessing that some of our guests have come more than once [which means I have not run them off....yet!]. If you have a chance, please take a moment to introduce yourself and welcome our new families that were with us this past Sunday:

Brad & Shelly Harrison [1st visit]

Michael & Lori Albers mmsalbers@aol.com

Bill & Stacie Gill itchygill@juno.com

James & Susan Lusk – members who have not been with us for a long time because of James work & school schedule. Welcome home to your class…it is great to have you back!

The Sunday School lesson this week was titled “Live in Relationship, not Rebellion” based on Isiah 1:2-4, 10-20. In life, we have only two directions to go and each direction comes with a set of consequences — living in a right relationship with God or living in sinful rebellion. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. When we choose to live in a right relationship with God, we are able to live in the peace that we are experiencing the meaningful & abundant life that God intended for us. If we choose the path of rebellion, we are simply deserting our loving Father for a life of sin. In right relationship, we experience the fullness of who God is and He is able to continue the work He started in us which is to be a reflection of His son to this lost and lonely world. With rebellion, He leaves us to our own way that will ultimately lead to His judgment. Many people profess God and worship Him with their lips publicly, but they never reach a point where they allow God’s instructions to affect their daily lives at work or in their personal relationships. We cannot have a right relationship with our Lord until we start allowing our Sunday worship time change our Monday workplace behavior. God will bless us in many ways when we commit to a right & growing relationship with Him where we live in reverent fear of Him, walk in His ways, love Him, and worship Him with our lives and lifestyles. Brother James sermon was titled “A Well of a Story” taken from John 4:1-13 based on the story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman at the well. The message was that we need to develop a passion to reach out to the lost world using Christ’s example at the well. That passion must include:

1. A decision not to get bogged down by minor details. Jesus walked away when the argument began about who was baptizing more people – him or John the Baptist – He walked away because there was no kingdom significance to the argument. We also need to avoid meaningless discussion on minor details so we can focus on the mission at hand — reaching out to the lost in our community. As body of Christ, we need to follow Jesus’ example and major on the major things and minor on the minor things.
2. We need to be willing to take detours into uncomfortable places. Jesus was taking a great “earthly risk” by traveling through Samaria and great social risk as a Rabbi speaking to a woman…especially a Samaritan woman who was living a sinful lifestyle. It is important to remember that most people who need Jesus will never go to a church to find Him….that woman did not find Jesus, He found her…just as He found each of us! We need to look for those who need to hear the Good News by taking divine detours, deliberate detours, and sometimes even dangerous & uncomfortable detours.
3. Finally, we need to be willing to make a declaration to God which states “help me to see and seize the opportunities You give me to share my faith everyday”. Only then will you truly be ready to share the living water that springs forth in you with the dry and thirsty world around you!

The greatest quote of the day came during the evening service when Brother James reminded us that “no matter who appears to be in charge, God is always in control”. Whether it was the Israelites in slavery in Egypt, the Christians under persecution in the Roman empire, or you today being tormented by a bad boss, bad relationships, or any other bad situation, it is great to claim this phrase and remember that though that person or authority may seem to be in charge, they are not really in control. I find that very liberating to know the people that seek to bring me harm or make me miserable are not really in control and God will take charge to deal with them in His own time. Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! ** SPECIAL NOTICES ** • Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Time – November 5-15. Brochures are available in the Welcome Center, see Milissa Butcher if you have any questions. • Desoto Hills T-Shirts – for sale in the church office, sample is in the office along with order forms. Cost is $10, available until November 15. See Tracy Hunter if you have any questions. • Membership Roll – there is an updated member roll on the Welcome Center table in the Grand Hall. The list was compiled from the commitment cards turned in by those moving from Carriage Hills, as well as those who have joined since coming to Getwell. Please check the list and contact the church office if your name is missing. SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR • November 11 – Children’s Western Banquet from 6-8 pm for K-5th grade. Sign up sheet is located on the table in the Welcome Center • November 11 & 12 – John Yates [ventriloquist] and Friends • November 19 – Dedication Service at 3:00 pm • Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders • Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s • 6th Grade Choir – 5:15 pm Wednesday’s • GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s • Prayer Time – for adults with the pastor at 6 pm Wednesday’s in the Prayer Tower • Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s • Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s • BOOST – Mid Week Youth Service 6:30 pm Wednesday’s in the Attic • Power-Aide – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s – a mid-week spiritual boost for adults with curriculum based classes for equipping the saints for the work of the ministry through spiritual maturity PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] • Kelley Benson/brother Kevin – God is good! Her brother was moved last Thursday into the Desoto Care Facility next to Baptist Desoto. The family can now easily stop by and check on him, pray over him, monitor his care, and just spend time with him. This is truly an answer to prayer and a reminder that God does hear and works things out in His good time. To God, be all glory and praise for His answer to this prayer!! Thanks to all of you who have been praying for Kevin and we ask that you continue to keep him and all of our family in prayer. • James & Susan Lusk – praise that James work schedule now allows their family to be back in church and that he will be finished with school in April. It is great to have your family back! • Michael Albers – praise that the Lord is already opening doors for him to change job positions at FedEx that will allow him the freedom to spend more time with his family. He had a positive 3 hour meeting the Strategic Planning department and meets next week with the Corporate Auditing team. Pray the Lord will continue to open doors and allow Michael to network with the right people so that he will find a position that will allow him to have more time being the dad and husband his family wants and needs him to be. • Dee Church – the stress and snapping at one another is improving at home. Pray that the Lord will wrap His arms around their home and bring the peace they desire so they can show each other how much they love one another. • Bob Benson in appreciation for Brad Dickey – last Friday, Brad got off early from work and drove home from North Carolina just to take his sons to their last football games of the season. He then turned around and drove back to North Carolina on Sunday to be at work Monday. What a praise that he put himself through that trip just to let his kids know how important they are to him. You’re a good dad Brad…even if you did score lower than anybody else in history on the empathy exam! HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES • Heather Schreiner/Mom – her Mom has been diagnosed with cancer and doctors are concerned that it may be more serious than what they had first suspected. Pray that the Lord will comfort the family and that the next series of tests will help the doctors with the right diagnosis and God given course of treatment that will lead to healing. • Jay Hasselman – Mom is having pain in her hip that has kept her in bed for 3 weeks, doctors cannot find out what is wrong. She is a teacher and is trying to decide if she should retire or not. • Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim’s test show that there is nothing wrong with his liver [Praise!] but they still are not sure what is causing his illness and there is still the possibility that it is a hereditary problem that may require that he be put on the liver transplant list at some point. • Dee Church/Blac – doctors have found a thyroid problem and will have to monitor closely • Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list • Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – Continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery from his coma. • Jeff Cain – Kenny Garrison, Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer PRAYER NEEDS • Lucy Hasselman – prayer that the elections will place people of God in office who support our schools with the tools they need to create a safe and thriving learning environment • Gary Blaylock/sister & family – prayer for his brother in-law & sister [Chris & Dusty Malone], he has been offered a six figure early buy-out from the military but only has 10 years to retirement when he would be guaranteed $40,000 year pension. Sister wants to get family closer to home so they are really struggling with this decision. Pray that God will give them wisdom to know what is best. • Gary Blaylock – prayer for Aimee and their marriage with some struggles she is going through related to her dad an how his health may effect hers • Gary Blaylock – prayer for the class as we grow, that we will minister to those in our class family • Susan Lusk – teaches algebra to 17 year olds at Center Hill, many who have failed multiple times and are apathetic to even trying. She is not getting any support in her parent contacts and is very frustrated with her position. She is asking for prayer for survival through the school year because she knows the second half of the year will be even worse than the first. • Gary Blaylock/Paul & Susan Palmer – Jimmy has been declared ineligible to play basketball at Hernando this year and this has caused a great deal of heartache and confusion for the family on what to do next. Pray that God will comfort them with his peace and guide them with His wisdom to know what is best, not just what is right or wrong. • Cathy Chandler – please continue to keep Jeri Hunter lifted up. • Sonja Dickey – seeking to change jobs, pray the Lord will open doors for her • Derek Chandler – prayer for Cathy who has been stressing about acceptance to nursing school SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH • FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY • Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner • Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law • Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister • Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name • Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name • Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad • Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws • Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers • Dee Church – Jeff/husband • Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law • Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family • Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother • Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” I Timothy 2:1

Chili Dog Believers

October 29th, 2006

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” I Timothy 2:1

Greetings to the Blaylock Bunch from Bob “Chili Dog” Benson. Those of you that were at the Fall Festival will understand that nickname…for those of you that missed it, you really missed a special treat seeing me in plastic restaurant gloves dipping out the chili dogs and pretending I was at a ball game calling “get your hot dogs”. I had a lot of fun and I hope everyone there enjoyed the Festival [and hopefully, I did not give too many people heartburn with those delicious chili dogs This was another great day for our church...another packed Sunday School class, another capacity worship crowd, and a great turnout for the fellowship and fun at the fall festival. There is a certain electricity in the air being part of something new and exciting like the birth of Desoto Hills and I feel truly blessed that week after week I am seeing the Lord's hand on this church. He has already done some wonderful things in the short life of this church and I truly believe the best is yet to come. If you have not caught the fever yet, then I encourage you to get involved, find something to do, find somewhere you can serve and get swept away in the holy flood the Lord is creating through this body of believers. We were blessed once again this week to have many visitors [and returning visitors] in our class family. If you have a chance, please take a moment to introduce yourself and welcome our new families: Sy & Connie Williams Michael & Lori Albers Bill & Stacie Gill Heather Schreiner The Sunday School lesson this week was titled “How can I develop a faith that will endure difficult times?’ based on 2 Timothy 3:1, 10-17; 4:5-8. This week we turned back our clocks, we changed times. We do this twice a year physically but our lives are an ongoing series of changing times…and the focal passages this week tell us that as Christians, we are to expect difficult times. We fight an enemy that wants nothing more than to make our lives on earth hard…Satan cannot snatch us away from Jesus but he can certainly put things in our paths that make us want to give up on life and on the Lord. Paul was teaching Timothy –and us– that Christians will struggle with evildoers and persecutions throughout our earthly lives. The key to being a Christina is that we are to endure our storms and hardships. The Greek word for endurance says we are to bear up under pressure, to remain loyal and steadfast, to be patient and hopeful…to refuse to quit serving our Lord regardless of the difficulties. That endurance comes from building a proper foundation of biblical knowledge and understanding which only comes from burying the Word in our hearts and minds. Paul expected that the heavenly rewards for enduring his hardships were far greater than any difficulties he faced on earth and we should develop that same kind of heavenly and eternal perspective in everything we face. God told us to expect and endure the difficult times to show others that our faith is real and that we have the fullness of a real & eternal life. I hope that whatever challenges you and your family are facing today that you will read through the Scriptures & lesson and be encouraged that God keeps his promise that He is right by your side at all times and you do not have to endure or fight the evil forces of this world alone. Brother James had a great sermon today he called “The Rod” from Exodus 17:8-13. This was the story of the Israelites battling the Amalekites where they were winning as long as Moses held the rod above his head and when he grew weary and the rod begin to fall, they would begin losing. As Brother James said, we need a “stick” to defeat Satan. We need to have a “stick to it” mindset of sticking to taking orders from God, sticking to taking the heat of battle, and sticking together to help one another when the burden gets to heavy. Moses physically could hold the rod above his head for only so long, but when he needed help, others came to help lift his arms so that he could follow the Lord’s command with the help and encouragement of others. Is there someone today you know that could use a little help “holding up their rod” as they strive to serve the Lord but their burden has just gotten a little too heavy for them? I am sure we all know someone that we can encourage by lending a hand to help them as they work to serve the Lord…remember that if God has put us on the battlefield he will not forsake or forget us and he may just send His helping hands in the form of a fellow believer….maybe this week you can be the believer he sends to help someone “hold up their rod”. Keep your eyes and ears open this week for an opportunity to be that helping hand to someone you can touch with the hands of God. For me, the most memorable thing Brother James said in his sermon today was that “we can never follow God in obedience if we are waiting until His orders make sense. Stop asking why and just start saying yes so that God can use you to work His plan”. Are you guilty — as I am — of waiting on a burning bush or complete clarity before stepping out in faith to do what I know God wants you to do? Just as I expect my children to obey and act when I instruct them whether they understand the reason or not, God loves obedience more than anything so we need to act in faith without understanding. Only then will we be able to become all that God wants us to be and be able to enjoy all His promises for us. Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SPECIAL NOTICE! November 5th – Blaylock Bunch Fellowship at the Adkins – immediately after 2nd Sunday School. Theme: PICNIC. Sandwiches, Chips, Dips, Deserts, tailgate snacks, drinks, etc. Call Debra if you have any questions about times or what she needs you to brings: Home/449-1966 or cell 901-289-3048. Address: 2545 Dickens Place Cove – here is a map quest link with directions from Desoto Hills: SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR November 5 – Flu Shots – from 10:30 through and following 2nd Sunday School in church office on 2nd floor. Cost $20. Pneumonia, vitamin B12, and tetanus injections will also be available. November 5 – RA Bike Ride for Missions at Shelby Forest – Contact Greg Dickerson at 349-0206 or 901-831-6486. Leave church after 2nd Sunday School and return by 5 pm. Parents welcome and drivers needed. Bring bike and helmet! November 5 – Desoto Central Elementary Choir – will be singing in evening worship November 11 & 12 – John Yates and Friends November 19 – Dedication Service at 3:00 pm Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s 6th Grade Choir – 5:15 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Time – for adults with the pastor at 6 pm Wednesday’s in the Prayer Tower Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s BOOST – Mid Week Youth Service 6:30 pm Wednesday’s in the Attic Power-Aide – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s – a mid-week spiritual boost for adults with curriculum based classes for equipping the saints for the work of the ministry through spiritual maturity PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Bill & Debra Adkins – praise that the whole family was able to attend church together for the first time in a long time and praise that Joseph is doing so well and will hopefully be walking soon Lori Gilbert – praise that meeting with Cody’s teacher went well this week and that the Lord had worked out everything in advance of the meeting Kelley Benson/brother Kevin Gunn – Lord has kept Kevin in Baptist East with a low grade fever which, once he is well again, should allow him to be discharged to the Southaven Nursing Home near Baptist Desoto. God worked everything out to get Kevin closer to his family without any additional hardship or financial burden to the family. To God be all the Glory!!! HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Heather Schreiner/Mom – her Mom has been diagnosed with cancer and doctors are concerned that it may be more serious than what they had first suspected. Pray that the Lord will comfort the family and that the next series of tests will help the doctors with the right diagnosis and God given course of treatment that will lead to healing. Jay Hasselman – Mom is having pain in her hip that has kept her in bed for 3 weeks, doctors cannot find out what is wrong. She is a teacher and is trying to decide if she should retire or not. Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim’s test show that there is nothing wrong with his liver [Praise!] but they still are not sure what is causing his illness and there is still the possibility that it is a hereditary problem that may require that he be put on the liver transplant list at some point. Dee Church/Blac – doctors have found a thyroid problem and will have to monitor closely Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – Continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery from his coma. Jeff Cain – Kenny Garrison, Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer PRAYER NEEDS Kevin & Dianne Avent – lots of family traveling into town next weekend for Dianne’s parents 50th wedding anniversary, prayer for safe travels Brad Dickey – gone for three weeks to North Carolina for company training. He requests prayer for his travels, for his family in his absence, and he is asking that the class call and check in on Sonja during that period. Cathy Chandler – please continue to keep Jeri Hunter lifted up. Dee Church – prayer for her family that is under a lot of stress with all that has been going on lately. Pray for peace over her home and family. Dennis Rikard – his Mom is in Branson, pray for safe travels Michael Albers – family has made a decision that he needs to seek a new position that will allow him to spend more time at home and with his kids. Pray that God will open doors for that position that will allow this family to serve the Lord by putting him at the head of their home Sonja Dickey – seeking to change jobs, pray the Lord will open doors for her Derek Chandler – prayer for Cathy who has been stressing about nursing school Bill Gill – prayer for short minded people involved in little league sports who are not setting good examples of sportsmanship or team dynamics in the way they behave or treat coaches, competing players, and other parents Kristi Rikard/her brother Chuck & his family – Chuck is a pastor and may be moving his family here to take over a church Paul Palmer – prayer for family Gary Blaylock – prayer for family Bob Benson – continue to pray for guidance in my company and career, and for wholeness in my body, mind, and spirit. Struggling with several issues now and am praying for wisdom that the Lord will reveal His will to me. SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

New Location, Fresh Start

October 15th, 2006

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” I Timothy 2:1

Were you there? Were you able to be there at the first service for Desoto Hills Baptist Church? If not, you missed one of the most powerful worship services I have ever experienced!! The house was packed. As an usher and greeter at the south door, I can tell you we ran out of bulletins quickly and the people kept coming. We moved chairs out of storage and out of class rooms just to make sure everyone had a seat and the people kept coming. The music was uplifting and Maurie Wright and her dad, Randy Jones, brought the house to their feet in celebration with a song about the new Jerusalem. And it was obvious that Brother James was excited about the “Fresh Start” available to us all through our new church home. The collection plates were full of visitor cards and I saw many friendly faces that I have not seen since we left Trinity. The grand hall was swarming with people after the service and smiles were everywhere. What a day…what a glorious day….and what an extraordinary worship service to lead us all on the journey of touching our community for Christ through the family of Desoto Hills. It has been a long time — maybe too long — since I left morning worship feeling as high as I do right now and I hope I can adequately put into words just how jazzed I am about my personal experience as the Lord descended on our church this morning. May we all seek to fulfill the mission God has given this fellowship of believers through this new location. It was good to see a full class room this morning for our first Sunday School time. We were privileged to have Sonja Blair and Steve & Brandy Haynes visiting with us and it was especially nice to have Jay & Lucy Hasselman and Bud & Lori Gilbert back with us. The message today was from I Timothy 6:3-12, I Timothy 6:17-19 and asked the question “How can I learn to be content?”. The world leads us to believe that we will be content in the amount of stuff and money we have, but as Christians, we must recognize that our contentment is based on Christ-sufficiency and not self-sufficiency. God has promised to meet our basic physical needs and anything beyond food, clothing, and shelter is just stuff….so why do we all work so hard to get stuff that we cannot take with us? Our focus needs to be on laying up eternal treasures in heaven where it matters most…not chasing the latest must-have gizmo here on earth. But that is easier said than done, right? We all have that secret desire to be wealthy in earthly terms [bet you bought a Powerball ticket last time it was over $200 million, didn't you...I know I did]. But if you study the focus passage of this weeks lesson, you will learn from our Sunday School book that “our lives are far richer when we honor the Lord and center our lives on Him since one day all our possessions will be gone and all that will last is what is eternal”. The Sunday School book makes some point that each of us needs to consider: The great challenge to modern believers who have so much more than the basic needs of this life, is to have and keep Biblical values and attitudes concerning wealth. What is most important in your life: how much money you have or how much God has of you and your possessions? Your answers to such questions will tell you much about whether you have or have not yet taken hold of contentment. The beauty of this day is how much the Sunday School lesson and Brother James sermon shared in the lesson of contentment. In essence, we as believers must come to the point in our lives that serving Christ is our basis for contentment. Whether it is in our personal lives related to the material things of this world, or as a congregation related to our pretty new building, will we be content in following the Lord’s leadership or will we set out on paths of our own? The sermon today was taken from Joshua 3:1-6 and was simply titled “Fresh Start”. Brother James emphasized that Desoto Hills, like the Israelites, is ready to cross the Jordan River into the promised land into a world of new beginnings. But how do we accomplish all the things God desires to accomplish in this community through Desoto Hills? We cannot be content in the fact that we have now opened the doors for our new building because it is only a shell unless the Lord is present and we are seeking to accomplish His will. Brother James made some solid points to motivate us on this “Fresh Start” that will keep us on track for God: A Fresh Frustration We need the attitude of “I am tired of this” – “this” being the old way We need to not be obsessed with the things of this world [like the Israelites who longed to go back to Egypt where they remembered things being easier] We need to get over “self” being the object of our focus – remember, it’s not about you…it’s about what God desires to accomplish through you [Joshua 3:5] A Fresh Focus In preparation to cross the Jordan River, the Israelites were told to consecrate themselves and follow the Ark of the Covenant wherever it led – the Ark represented the presence of God…are you ready to follow God where he leads? The priority of the Ark was that it was the first thing God instructed to be built as part of the Temple so that the Israelites knew they were in the presence of God and that He was among them The prestige of the Ark was that it was layered inside and out with pure gold as a symbol that God is a holy God who is the same on the outside as well the inside The packaging of the Ark that carried symbols of his concerns for our relationship with him and others — compassion [a jar of Manna]; statement of power to remind who is in charge [Aaron's staff]; and the tablets with the Ten Commandments. The power of the Ark that reminds us that we are here to do His bidding, He is not here to do our bidding. The Israelites recognized that the Ark gave them the power to defeat their enemies but they lost focus and lost the Ark when they forgot that it is not who has the Ark, but who the Ark has [i.e. it is not whether you have Jesus or not but how much of you Jesus has!]. A Fresh Fear We must maintain a reverent fear and respect of our Holy God so that we can approach Him and be in His presence with a right heart God cares more about our attitude in our worship than how we worship…He wants it from the heart! Brother James will continue this lesson next week and I hope you can be there for this message! Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR Fall Festival – Sunday , October 29th from 3:30 to 5:30 at Desoto Hills for both Carriage Hills & Desoto Hills October 22 – Dr. Jim Futral, Executive Director of MS Baptist Convention – preaching in evening service November 5 – Desoto Central Elementary Choir – will be singing in evening worship November 11 & 12 – John Yates and Friends November 19 – Dedication Service at 3:00 pm Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s 6th Grade Choir – 5:15 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Time – for adults with the pastor at 6 pm Wednesday’s in the Prayer Tower Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s BOOST – Mid Week Youth Service 6:30 pm Wednesday’s in the Attic Power-Aide – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s – a mid-week spiritual boost for adults with curriculum based classes for equipping the saints for the work of the ministry through spiritual maturity PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Class – praise for a good turn out and for our visitors today, Steve and Brandy Haynes Dee Church – praise that the Spaghetti Dinner raised $2000 to help her Mom with final expenses for her Dad. Paul Palmer – God is Good! Had his best day ever in sales this past Friday Aimee Blaylock – her Dad was granted disability income plus 2 years back pay this past week at his hearing and the judge ruled in his favor from the bench rather than delaying it for 30 days like the process is normally done Kelley Benson/brother Kevin Gunn – there is a bed open in a Southaven Nursing Home near Baptist Desoto but there are some problems with his admittance due to a lag time in the insurance coverage. Please continue praying that the Lord will bring him closer to the family so the family can better monitor his care and that He will move the bureaucracy mountain that is blocking Kelley from getting him transferred immediately before we lose that open bed. HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Sonja Blair – her Dad is sick with splints in his brain stem and is depressed, not his usual cheerful self Jay Hasselman – Mom is having pain in her hip that has kept her in bed for 3 weeks, doctors cannot find out what is wrong. She is a teacher and is trying to decide if she should retire or not. Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim is waiting for the results of his liver biopsy last Thursday. He has been very sick and his condition may require that he be put on the liver transplant list and it may be hereditary which means it may have been passed to Zack. Keep Amanda & Tim in your prayers. Dee Church/Blac – doctors have found a thyroid problem and will have to monitor closely Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – he is still in Baptist East for now but may have to go back to that awful Ripley Nursing Home where he receives such poor care that he keeps getting pneumonia prior to coming to Southaven . Continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery. Kelley Benson, Mom – Martha Tucker – recovering from back surgery Jeff Cain – friend, Kenny Garrison, has inoperable esophagus cancer Jeff Cain – Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer Bob Benson – having a nerve block in back on Tuesday, pray it will help me feel physically better soon PRAYER NEEDS Steve & Brandy Haynes [visitors] – Unspoken Dee Church – had a rough week last week, the family purchased her Dad’s tombstone yesterday and Monday will be one month since she lost her Dad. prayer as her mom goes back to work this week for the first time since losing her husband Sonja Blair – home has been for sale for 6 months, just put up a for sale by owner and close to an offer. Pray that it will sell if it is the Lord’s will. Lori Gilbert – pray for their children Bud Gilbert – prayer for them as they are building a new home Leigh Ann Baker – continue to pray for the well being of her sister Sonja Dickey – some folks will be moving in with them who are unchurched and have custody of an 8 year old boy from another family member. Pray that they will come to church and see Jesus through the lives of the Dickey’s. Brad Dickey – will be out of town for three weeks beginning the last week of October. He requests prayer for his travels, for his family in his absence, and he is asking that the class call and check in on Sonja during that period. Kenneth Duck – traveling extensively [flying over 9000 miles in September & October]. Pray for safe travels and a safe return. Kevin & Diane Avent – prayer for oldest son, Josh, who lives in Indianapolis and is facing some major decisions between now and the end of the year. SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

Countdown to DeSoto Hills

October 8th, 2006

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” I Timothy 2:1

We are only 5 days away from our first worship service at Desoto Hills Church and I am looking forward to this family of believers gathering on Getwell to experience the Holy Spirit descend on our new church in the same way He descended on Jesus when He was baptized by John the Baptist. For many of you long time Carriage Hills members, you have been waiting for this day long before Kelley and I ever joined your family. For some of you newer members, the wait has been very short. But I hope that whether your waiting period was long or short, that we all share one enthusiasm for our new church home and the ministry opportunities it will bring as we seek to reach the lost and unchurched in new neighborhoods. Emotions. As excited as I am about the new start we will experience on October 15th, I am equally saddened that this past Sunday was, for many of us, our last worship experience at Carriage Hills Baptist. CHBC has been a very special place to me in my personal walk with the Lord and I have experienced a time of growth there that words cannot express. Carriage Hills brought my family out of a difficult time when we left a church home and could not find a new one. This is the first church where I have ever actually found a calling for service [that would be this annoying email system that I am sure causes groans when your inbox shows 5 or so emails from me in one day!]. Brother James was the first preacher my children ever said they enjoyed watching and listening to [thank goodness he never stands still and has a sense of humor!]. And without a doubt, CHBC offered a Sunday School family where we felt loved, welcomed, and was where we wanted to be. Emotions. This past Sunday was a special day in so many ways. A day of mixed feelings between the sadness of saying goodbye and the joy of moving on to something new. A realization that the day would be the last time our church worshiped together as one body and the expectation of the growth we all expect in the body that will be Desoto Hills. But no matter what the ups and downs of the feelings were, there was an underlying joy that God had led us all through this and that we are following His lead in how our church can make a greater impact on this community. I am sad that the chapter has closed on our time at Carriage Hills, but I cannot hide my excitement and enthusiasm by what the future holds. The drive may be shorter to our new church but I think our time of traveling across town and the emotions of this past Sunday have taught me some valuable lessons. First, God stepped out of Heaven to come meet me….the drive across town but was a small inconvenience for me to seek Him. Second, I have to believe that the mixed emotions of leaving one church to go another is similar to what will happen to all Christians when our time on Earth is done. We will be saddened by those we are leaving behind, the regrets of uncompleted dreams, and the memories of missed opportunities. But in the same instance, we will be overjoyed by the prospect of what is to come, what rewards we will receive in Heaven, and the opportunities we will have to see Jesus and worship him face to face. My life experience has been that the sadness of one door closed is quickly surpassed by what lies beyond the next door that opens. I believe this is true for those of us moving to Desoto Hills, and I trust this will be true in my transition to Heaven. Even though we skipped Sunday School this week, I had already read the lesson the week before by accident so I have a pretty fair idea of what Gary taught about. The title of the lesson was “Take Hold of Godliness, How can I be a stronger Christian?” and was taken from I Timothy 4:6-16. We are to receive our nourishment from private and public reading of the word, and we need to train ourselves in godliness the way an athlete trains his body. These are conscious decisions and take effort but they are the only way to develop a character that reflects God. Two phrases in our Sunday School book leaped out at me and they apply to us all whether we choose to serve at Carriage Hills or Desoto Hills. I hope you will takes these statements to heart so the Lord can use you in His way to help reach our community.: “Character is always more important than age in God’s ability to use someone for His work.” “It is not our age or lack of church experience that keeps God from using us; it is our unwillingness to use and develop our God-given abilities for His glory according to His will for our lives”. Looking forward to see everyone on Getweel Road next week! Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SPECIAL NOTICES !!!!!! !!!!!!! CLEAN-UP AND SET-UP AT DESOTO HILLS CHURCH – Every day until October 15th – please call the church office on any day that you can volunteer to find out where they need help and when & where you need to report. Church Office# 342-1772. October 14th – Open House from 3 – 5 pm at Desoto Hills October 15th – FIRST WORSHIP SERVICE AT DESOTO HILLS!!! Desoto Hills Worship Schedule – 1st Sunday School @ 8:30; Worship at 9:30; 2nd Sunday School @ 10:45. Dedication Service – November 19th SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR Fall Festival – Sunday , October 29th from 3:30 to 5:30 at Desoto Hills for both Carriage Hills & Desoto Hills October 22 – Dr. Jim Futral, Executive Director of MS Baptist Convention – preaching in evening service November 5 – Desoto Central Elementary Choir – will be singing in evening worship November 11 & 12 – John Yates and Friends November 19 – Dedication Service Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Meeting – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Debra Adkins – praise that Joseph has come so far and for the NICU [Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit] reunion. COntinue to pray for his development and good health. Kelley Benson/brother Kevin Gunn – doors seem to be opening with Social Security and Medicaid that will allow Kevin to be admitted to a Southaven Nursing Home near Baptist Desoto. Please continue praying that the Lord will bring him closer to the family so we can better monitor his care. HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim is waiting for the results of his liver biopsy last Thursday. He has been very sick and his condition may require that he be put on the liver transplant list and it may be hereditary which means it may have been passed to Zack. Keep Amanda & Tim in your prayers. Dee Church/Blac – doctors have found a thyroid problem and will have to monitor closely Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – he is back in Baptist East Hospital recovering from another bout with pneumonia. Continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery. Kelley Benson, Mom – Martha Tucker – had back surgery this past Saturday, pray for comfort in pain, and a quick recovery period Jeff Cain – friend, Kenny Garrison, has inoperable esophagus cancer Jeff Cain – Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer PRAYER NEEDS Kelley Benson – pray for God’s wisdom and grace for Kelley and her family in making decisions related to the long term care of her brother. These are very hard days on this family, especially when they visit him in the hospital and see glimmers of purposeful movement, eyes tracking them in the room, facial mood expressions, etc. Our faith is in God and we know He is in charge but it is hard to maintain faith and hope when all the doctors bring is bad news, Pray for Kelley and keep her lifted through this difficult time. Aimee Blaylock/Dad Russell Holland – disability hearing, pray he will be cleared to begin receiving disability benefits Dee Chruch/Mom – prayer as her mom goes back to work this week for the first time since losing her husband Gary Blaylock – prayer that someone from the class will step up and take over the outreach ministry for our class. Brad Dickey – will be out of town for three weeks beginning the last week of October. He requests prayer for his travels, for his family in his absence, and he is asking that the class call and check in on Sonja during that period. Kenneth Duck – will be flying over 9000 miles between now and the end of the October. Pray for safe travels and a safe return. Kevin & Diane Avent – prayer for oldest son, Josh, who lives in Indianapolis and is facing some major decisions between now and the end of the year. Bob Benson – prayer for wisdom for the Christian minded leaders in my company on decisions that need to be made related to personnel, for peace and unified goals among the owners, and for opportunities to help us rebuild our sales & income after recently losing our business at The Home Depot. As manufacturers reps, we need prayer that the Lord will bring to us new & profitable factories to represent, and that He will open doors for new business at our existing accounts, as well as accounts that we have not been able to penetrate in the past. SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

Pathway to Heaven

October 1st, 2006

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” I Timothy 2:1

How’s your week going? In spite of any problems, difficulties, disappointments, or aggravations you may have already had in the early part of this week, it is my hope that the Spirit is working in you to enjoy the abundant life Jesus said He came to give you {John 10:10}. No matter our present circumstances, remember that this life is just a pathway to our real home in Heaven…you already have eternal life and victory over Satan’s lies so keep your eye on the prize and you will be free to experience the joy God wants for you! Two weeks!! We only have two weeks before our first worship together at Desoto Hills!!! We are down to the wire and Brother James, Brother Mark, Brother Wayne, and Paul Wardlaw have sent out a call to arms for every available body to volunteer and help get the building ready for our first service. The church body has been asked that if you are available to help on any day, that you call the church office on that day and ask where and when they need workers [or you can simply show up and there will be plenty to do]. This is your chance to add a little sweat equity to your new place of worship. In the garden before His crucifixion, Jesus sweated blood in agony over what He was going to do for you….a little sweat on your brow is but a small token of gratitude for your Salvation in helping prepare His house to reach a new community for worship. For all of us going to Desoto Hills, take this opportunity as a charter member & founder to put your signature on this building for all those generations who will follow us into this congregation. These are truly exciting times and I hope we will all join in to help wherever & whenever we can before October 15th! I do not know about anyone else, but I am really enjoying the new Sunday School book we are using because I find it easier to understand and I think it brings great life application lessons. Our lesson this past week was from I Timothy 1:3-7, 12-20 and was about preparing ourselves against false teachings. Naturally, we all agreed that reading and burying the Word in our hearts is the first line of defense because you have to know what you believe and what the Bible says in order to discern the truth from fiction. There was also much discussion on the fact that a solid prayer life, spending time in the presence of other like minded Christians, and of course church attendance are other ways to suit up with the armor of God. Though it does not specifically pertain to false teachings, the verse from the lesson that stuck with me the most was from verses 15-16 which states: This saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” – and I am the worst of them. But I received mercy because of this, so that in me, the worst [of them], Christ Jesus might demonstrate the utmost patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Each of us has been given mercy and a second chance at a new life on earth, and eternal life in the presence of of God Almighty. I can relate to Paul when I think of what a waste my life was prior to accepting Jesus as my Lord. I also often feel that in the Sunday School class or in the congregation, I could easily be labeled “the worst of them”. But Jesus convicted and changed me and the veil was lifted so that I could see my life for what it was and the Holy Spirit allowed me — through grace and mercy — to believe that Jesus did come into the world save all sinners. I cannot change my past [and luckily God has forgotten about it] but I can certainly strive to become “an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life”. Though I spend most of my time stumbling around like a toddler in my witness, this passage reminds me that I need to study and pray so that I can help future believers understand what is really Truth. I hope we will all remember this lesson and be conscious that the world is watching us and our light needs to shine for Jesus so others can come to know Him through the testimony of our lives. God answered my prayer from last week and He prepared my heart to receive His word from the sermon this week. And it was a good one with Brother James preaching from Revelation 5:1-5 [I encourage you to read these verses before trying to understand the bullet points below]. Brother James helped us understand the importance of Jesus being the only One worthy to open the seven sealed scrolls and that these verses mean that there is a: Documentation Deed – Jesus is about to reclaim ownership of the world that He owned before Creation Declaration – that Jesus is going to deliver wrath and judgment to those who have rejected Him Design – this is an insight in to God’s blueprint of what He has in store for us Invitation Prestigious – the call for the One worthy to open the seals came from not just an angel, but a Mighty angel Penetrating – the call was proclaimed in a loud voice went out everywhere [Heaven, Earth, depths of Hell] Purpose – the call went out and no one was found worthy to remind ALL of creation that Only the Lamb is worthy Realization That you and I are not worthy apart from the grace of God Exhortation Praise that Jesus is able and He is in charge Praise that Jesus is in touch and understands us because He has walked among us Praise that Jesus is indestructible and that He has triumphed Isn’t great to know that our Lord is in charge and we do not need to be in charge of anything except worshiping Him as Lord and Savior? He alone is trustworthy and worthy of our praise and He will work all things to our good and we can claim the following verse as we seek to trust Him with our everything: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SPECIAL NOTICES !!!!!! !!!!!!! CLEAN-UP AND SET-UP AT DESOTO HILLS CHURCH – Every day until October 15th – please call the church office on any day that you can volunteer to find out where they need help and when & where you need to report. Church Office# 342-1772. October 14th – Open House from 3 – 5 pm at Desoto Hills October 15th – FIRST WORSHIP SERVICE AT DESOTO HILLS!!! Desoto Hills Worship Schedule – 1st Sunday School @ 8:30; Worship at 9:30; 2nd Sunday School @ 10:45. Dedication Service – November 19th SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR Fall Festival – Sunday , October 29th from 3:30 to 5:30 at Desoto Hills for both Carriage Hills & Desoto Hills October 22 – Dr. Jim Futral, Executive Director of MS Baptist Convention – preaching in evening service November 5 – Desoto Central Elementary Choir – will be singing in evening worship November 11 & 12 – John Yates and Friends November 19 – Dedication Service Youth Praise and Worship – 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Meeting – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s SPECIAL MEMBER NEEDS Dee Church & Family – her Uncle who is the Pastor of Olive Branch Church is hosting a benefit Spaghetti Dinner this Saturday to help Dee’s Mom with expenses that were not covered by insurance in the loss of her Dad several weeks ago. They hope to raise funds to help with medical expenses and to purchase a headstone for her Dad. Tickets are $5.00 per person and plates can be picked up or you can eat in anytime between noon and 7 pm on Saturday, October 7 at the North Central Electric building on Highway 305 in Olive Branch. PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Kristi Rikard – Garrett has een asking a lot of questions about God and may be ready to accept Jesus. Pray that the Spirit will move to help Kristi and Dennis guide him as he is seeking the Lord and pray for his salvation in God’s perfect timing. Dee Church – her Mom’s test all came back negative HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim is having a liver biopsy this Thursday as a result of his blood tests coming back negative. He has very sick and his condition may require that he be put on the liver transplant list and it may be hereditary which means it may have been passed to Zack. Keep Amanda & Tim in your prayers. Dee Church – she is suffering from exhaustion and insomnia ever since her Dad’s funeral. Please lift her up for God’s peace to give her rest in His care. Dee Church- her Grandmother is in the hospital and family is worried that her condition is related to losing her son [Dee's Dad] Gwen Cain – her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – he is back in Baptist East Hospital recovering from another bout with pneumonia. Continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery. Kelley Benson, Mom – Martha Tucker – will be having back surgery this Saturday, pray for skilled surgeons, comfort in pain, and a quick recovery period Jeff Cain – friend, Kenny Garrison, has inoperable esophagus cancer Jeff Cain – Roger Cryer, Larry Jolly [uncle], Aunt Margie Lackey, and Susan Nunn all have cancer PRAYER NEEDS Kelley Benson – pray for God’s wisdom and grace as the family is facing difficult decisions related to the long term care of her brother. The family has reached a decision to not continue care and allow him to pass away if he gets sick again and if that is what God has planned for Kevin. The family has already begun making arrangements for the funeral service so they are prepared when that time comes. These are very hard days on this family, especially when they visit him in the hospital and see glimmers of purposeful movement, eyes tracking them in the room, facial mood expressions, etc. Our faith is in God and we know He is in charge but it is hard to maintain faith and hope when all the doctors bring is bad news, Pray for Kelley and keep her lifted through this difficult time. Dee Church – Ally is struggling with the loss of her Grand Dad and her father is leaving soon for duty in Iraq. Prayer that the Lord will comfort her in her confusion and pain. Gwen Cain – prayer for safety and fun for Charlene’s class as they travel on a field trip to Nashville this week Jeff Cain – prayer for his nephew, Lane Sims, who is married to a Jewish girl which makes it very difficult to witness to him Gary Blaylock – prayer that someone from the class will step up and take over the outreach ministry for our class. Brad Dickey – will be out of town for three weeks beginning the last week of October. He requests prayer for his travels, for his family in his absence, and he is asking that the class call and check in on Sonja during that period. Brad Dickey – parents will be in town next weekend Kenneth Duck – will be flying over 9000 miles between now and the end of the October. Pray for safe travels and a safe return. Kevin & Diane Avent – prayer for oldest son, Josh, who lives in Indianapolis and is facing some major decisions between now and the end of the year. Bob Benson – prayer for wisdom for the Christian minded leaders in my company on decisions that need to be made related to personnel, for peace and unified goals among the owners, and for opportunities to help us rebuild our sales & income after recently losing our business at The Home Depot. As manufacturers reps, we need prayer that the Lord will bring to us new & profitable factories to represent, and that He will open doors for new business at our existing accounts, as well as accounts that we have not been able to penetrate in the past. SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

Flowing, Abundant, Joy

September 24th, 2006

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone” – I Timothy 2:1

HAPPY TUESDAY TO THE BUNCH! Jesus said He came so that we would have life and have it more abundantly {John 10:10}. I hope this letter finds that everyone is having a week where the Holy Spirit is flowing through you in such a way that you are truly able to enjoy the abundant life and joy that He promised us as His children!! We are down to 3 weeks before the “Multiplication” takes place and many of us will soon be worshiping at Desoto Hills Church. {FYI – for those that do not know, the “Multiplication” is a term that means our one church is multiplying into two buildings so that we can reach even more people in our community}. Over the next few weeks, the church will be sending out SOS calls for helping hands to make final preparations for clean up and move in before our first service on October 15th. Please keep an eye on the church calendar and be willing to serve when & where you can in this call for a little sweat equity in YOUR church. For all of us going to Desoto Hills, we are charter members and founders so make sure you are a part of making the dream a reality for all those generations who follow us into this congregation. These are truly exciting times and I hope we will all join in to help wherever we can! We had a blast in class Sunday and we had a really powerful lesson from the book of Joshua 24:14-28, focusing on 14 & 15 that states “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” As the leader in your home, have you devoted yourself and your family to worshiping God and Him alone? Are you strong enough in your walk with the Lord that you have reached the point where you can tell the rest of the world that it is up to them to choose who they will serve, and confidently stand against the world by telling them you will serve the one true & living God no matter what? Is there anything worldly that is preventing you from courageously trusting and following the Lord even when it is not the popular thing to do? If you are like me, I am sure you struggle with the fleshy & material gods all the time. Money, jobs, material items, kids activities, endless to-do lists, and on and on it goes. Like Paul, no matter how hard I struggle, I find myself thinking about and doing the things I don’t want to do and not doing the things I ought to do. God loved me enough to save me so I can spend eternity with Him….and all He asks in return is a heart committed to worshiping, praising, and serving Him. I hope these verses will remind all of us to commit all our energy to leading our families to follow God and Him alone. I amy fail often in that goal, but when God looks at me, I want Him to see a heart that is struggling to serve Him in the way I lead my life and the way I lead the family he has entrusted to me. I hate to be brutally honest about this, but I have to admit that I did not get as much out of the sermon this past Sunday as I have over the past few weeks. Brother James was once again on fire and funny and a joy to watch and listen to, but unfortunately I had the false gods of to-do lists and work distracting me from the message. {Seems as though I was not able to apply the Sunday School lesson to worship service}. Brother James is still working us through Revelation and the sermon was from 4: 9-11 and the theme of the message was “How to Worship God Today”. I hope that over this week I will prepare my heart to receive a word from the Lord and that I will put on my full battle armor before service next Sunday so that I can hear the full message from our Lord clearly. How are you doing in living out the challenge verse Brother James gave us at the beginning of 2006? Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SPECIAL NOTICES !!!!!! !!!!!!! CLEAN-UP AND SET-UP AT DESOTO HILLS CHURCH – Thursday nights at 6:00 pm until [??] and Saturdays from 8:30 am until [??] October 14th – Open House from 4 – 7 pm at Desoto Hills October 15th – FIRST WORSHIP SERVICE AT DESOTO HILLS!!! Desoto Hills Worship Schedule – 1st Sunday School @ 8:30; Worship at 9:30; 2nd Sunday School @ 10:45. SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR Faith Teams Meeting – Monday, September 11th at 6 pm DATE CHANGE – RA Camp-out – Friday night, September 29th at 6 pm, Mr Greg’s house [5829 Tchulahoma] – Dinner & Breakfast provided. Bring tent, sleeping bags, & flashlight. Activities include Games, Spider Safari, Bonfire with S’mores, and more. Youth Praise and Worship – starts back Wednesday, August 16th at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders Youth Choir – 5 pm Wednesday’s GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm Wednesday’s Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Prayer Meeting – 6:30 pm Wednesday’s Ladies Bible Study – Hall of Faith Study/10 week study of Hebrews 11 – Taught by Peggy Butcher beginning Tuesday, September 5th at 9:30 am. All Ladies are invited to come; sign up sheet on Women’s Ministry Bulletin Board PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Dominick Morreale – prayed to receive Jesus and has been saved!!! Norma called last night and was very excited in her message for this great news and answer to prayer. He will be following up with baptism soon but Norma was not sure which Sunday night they will be doing it. This is truly a praise for Dominick and the whole Morreale family! Debra Adkins – Joseph is now sitting up and crawling and can hear. Continue to pray for him as he works to learn how to chew. Debra Adkins – Angela Moore’s little 4 year old daughter found out that the mole doctors were concerned about is not melanoma. Jeff & Gwen Cain – Congratulations on celebrating their 17th wedding anniversary this past Saturday! HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES Leigh Ann Baker- Sister is not doing well and will probably end up in an in-patient care situation if her condition does not improve Debra Adkins for Tim Vickers- Tim has been very sick and in & out of the hospital…his condition may require that he be put on the liver transplant list Dee Church- Mom is waiting on tests results Gwen Cain- Her cousin Phyllis is on dialysis and has been placed on the Kidney & Pancreas transplant list Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – he has been returned to the nursing home in Ripley, TN which is a huge burden on the family trying to care for him and monitor his care. Pray that soon they will find a facility close to home and continue to pray that God’s hands will astonish the medical professionals with a full and miraculous recovery. Jeff Cain – friend, Kenny Garrison, has inoperable esophagus cancer PRAYER NEEDS Kelley Benson – pray for God’s wisdom and grace as the family is facing decisions related to the long term care of her brother. The family is split at this point as to whether or not to continue treatments or to let him go the next time he is sick. Part of the family is holding out hope that the Lord is not done with Kevin and time will bring His healing power, while the other half has given up all hope. Only God knows the path that the family needs to take and pray that the entire family will seek the Lord in the decisions that must be made and that there will be unity when the time comes to make the difficult decisions about his care. Gwen Cain – another employee has quit and there has been a lot of theft at the school. Pray for her work environment. Paul Palmer – prayer for the family of the DCHS kids involved in the fatal crash with a pedestrian on Goodman this past Saturday night. Gary Blaylock – his business is going through some changes that will increase his operating overhead and cause some hardships for a short time, pray that he and Aimee will trust the Lord to bring them through it. Gary Blaylock – prayer for Dee Church and her family in the loss of her father a week ago. Gary Blaylock – prayer that someone from the class will step up and take over the outreach ministry for our class. Brad Dickey – will be out of town for three weeks beginning the last week of October. He requests prayer for his travels, for his family in his absence, and he is asking that the class call and check in on Sonja during that period. Kenneth Duck – will be flying over 9000 miles between now and the end of the October. Pray for safe travels and a safe return. Kevin & Dianne Avent – Diane’s Mom traveling this week. Prayer for safe travels and a safe return. Kevin & Diane Avent – prayer for oldest son, Josh, who lives in Indianapolis and is facing some major decisions between now and the end of the year. Bob Benson – prayer for my company, decisions that need to be made related to personnel changes, and for opportunities to help us rebuild our sales & income after recently losing our business at The Home Depot. As manufacturers reps, we need prayer that the Lord will bring to us new & profitable factories to represent, and that He will open doors for new business at our existing accounts, as well as accounts that we have not been able to penetrate in the past. SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

The Sunrise Blaylock Breakfast Buffet

August 20th, 2006 If you were not in class today, you missed a great turn out for our first ever Sunrise Service. I was amazed to see that we had a full house and was even more impressed by the amount of food that brought by the class. We should have charged admission fees for the “Blaylock Breakfast Buffet” because we had more food than mouths to possibly eat it all. If you were able to witness our Thanksgiving size smorgasbord, you would be able to understand how the Israelites must have felt each morning when manna covered the ground or when the disciples had leftovers after feeding the five thousand which a few fish and loaves of bread. I know that Gary is grateful for the heart of this class that we are flexible to better meet the needs of this church so thanks to everyone for getting out of bed early and kicking off our new class time schedule with a bang. I had forgotten how many good cooks this class has…when are we going to have a social again? As much as Gary loves football, how about sometime we do a “Sunday After Service Tailgate Party” where we do tailgating foods? Just a thought…any other suggestions from anyone for a party? Have you hear Brother James preach lately? I cannot confirm this 100%, but I personally believe that he is getting really excited about the next few months because he has absolutely been on fire the past few weeks [either that or he is off his meds]. Did you know that they are saying that we will be in the new church in October? I think he must be getting excited that he will soon be preaching in anew church home and that he is feeling the load of the transition coming off him so he can get back to what he is best at…preaching. His message today took us into Revelation 4:1-2 which he referred to as VIP’s — Very Important Passages. Take a moment to read these scriptures so you understand what he meant when he said today that those of us saved in Jesus should be: * Encouraged — that Heaven is a place…not a state of mind or a feeling…and that is is upward thus the command “come Up here” * Enlightened – John said “I looked”…he cooperated with God and accepted the invitation to see Heaven…we also must cooperate God and accept His invitations for salvation, direction, whatever…but we must seek Him * Energized — God is able to take over when we head his direction…all it takes is that first step of faith toward Him I simply cannot do justice to the sermon today by trying to recreate Brother James heart and passion here on paper. All I can tell you is Brother James is bringing very strong messages of hope and encouragement and if that is what you seek t your point of need right now, I encourage you to get into service and hear God’s voice through our pastor. You will be glad you did!! And speaking of taking a step of faith towards the Lord, do you still remember the challenge verse for 2006? Have you made it part of your daily walk? If not, I encourage you to recommit it to memory in your heart and try to live it everyday. We all face troubles, trials, and doubts, but our Lord is faithful to see us through if we try to live this verse out: * Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight:. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SPECIAL NOTICES !!!!!! !!!!!!! * BLAYLOCK BUNCH NOW STARTS AT 8:30 AM * BREAKFAST LIST?? – We were blessed with a lot of food today and as good as it was, it was simply too much. I know Billy Pearce’s class uses a rotating breakfast list where a couple of people each week are assigned to bring something for the class. Any suggestions on how we could work something similar? SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR * Youth Praise and Worship – starts back Wednesday, August 16th at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall for 7-12th graders * Youth Choir – 5 pm starting August 23rd * GA’s & RA’s & Mission Friends – 6 pm beginning August 23rd * Children’s Choir [1st to 5th grades] – 6:30 pm beginning August 23rd * Pre-School Choir [4 & 5 year olds] – 6:30 pm beginning August 23rd * Prayer Meeting – 6:30 pm beginning August 23rd * Ladies Bible Study – Hall of Faith Study/10 week study of Hebrews 11 – Taught by Peggy Butcher beginning Tuesday, September 5th at 9:30 am. All Ladies are invited to come; sign up sheet on Women’s Ministry Bulletin Board * Brother James speaking and Cheryl Pearce singing at the Mayor’s Quarterly Prayer Luncheon – Friday, September 1st – 11:45 am – Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at 393-6939. PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] * Kelley Benson – her brother Kevin is beginning to show some purposeful movements and is tracking voices with his eyes which are both very positive signs in the recovery process. He is getting much better care at Baptist Desoto Hospital. Still praying that whenever he is ready to be discharged that God will open a bed for at the Kings Daughters Home in Memphis for recovery and rehab. This is one of the best facilities of its kind and though we do not have the final word yet, we are encouraged and praying for an open bed and transfer soon. * Cathy Chandler – passed algebra!! * Paul & Susan Palmer – praise that the kids have adjusted to their news schools * Jerry Barham – God answered a major prayer for their family this past week HEALTH CARE PRAYER REQUESTS & UPDATES * Leigh Ann Baker – recovering from having tonsils out this past Thursday. * Kelley Benson, brother Kevin Gunn – making improvements, but we still pray for more progress and a ultimately a full recovery. We believe in a God of second chances and miracles and that He will bring Kevin back as someone useful to His kingdom, but we also pray that the Lord’s will be done and that He uses what we see as an awful situation to His glory and for His purposes to touch the lives of those that care about Kevin. * Kelley Benson, Mom & Sister – her Mom, Martha, is in the hospital in severe pain from what appears to be multiple herniated and bulging discs in her back. Pray for comfort and that she will have compassionate & caring doctors who will help with her pain [since she has mostly had uncaring & self righteous doctors who are a pain so far]. * Gary Blaylock – having back pain and is having an Upper GI scope done on the 29th to determine why he is having so much trouble eating and keeping food down. Pray for relief. * Dee Church – her mother in law is having Gall Bladder surgery on Tuesday. * Mike Mangialardi – friend, Carl Medlin, is having 4 stints in his heart after losing both his oldest and youngest sons in a short period of time * Jeff Cain – friend, Kenny Garrison, has inoperable esophagus cancer * Jeff Cain – friend, Susan Nunn, has a brain tumor PRAYER NEEDS * Cathy Chandler – unspoken, just continue to pray for their family. * Aimee Blaylock – still has not made a decision on job offer, pray for wisdom as she evaluates this opportunity. * Jerry Barham – still struggling with a job offer with a larger company that has been recruiting him for 2 months but they are ready for his decision now. Pray that Jerry will have wisdom in evaluating this opportunity and that he will recognize and have the courage to act upon what God wants him to do. * Paul & Susan Palmer – Jimmy received a threatening phone call from one of his old team mates. Continue to lift their family up…prayer as they go through changes to new schools and the effect that will have on the kids and Paul & Susan * Gwen Cain- one of the main employees at her work is quitting and they were already short handed..pray God will bring a good workers there to SBEC so Gwen will have schedule flexibility to be able to go on field trips * Dennis Rickard – has applied for a new position at his company but has not heard anything yet. * Cathy Chandler – please remember Jeri Hunter in your prayer time * Jeff Cain – a friends teenage son committed suicide * Bob Benson – prayer for business opportunities. The Lord closed the door with my grill business this past week when my company was let go as the sales agents for Home Depot. I firmly believe that there is a season for everything in life and this season is ended and I look forward to see what new opportunities He has planned next. Pray that my partners and I will will make wise decisions for us and our employees in the short term and that Kelley and I will will be wise stewards of our resources during the time of change. Most of all, pray that through His grace, we will be able to trust Him enough to follow where He leads with hearts that believe he is working things out for our good. Amen and amen! SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH * Desoto Hills Set Up Helpers – Please sign up on the bulletin board in the vestibule [between sanctuary & children's SS class stairway]. They are asking for volunteers to be on the list to be called on as needed to help set up the new church. * FAITH TEAMS – includes Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family – prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY * Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner * Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother- in-law * Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister * Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name * Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name * Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad * Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws * Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers * Dee Church – Jeff/husband * Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law * Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family * Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother * Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’ s Dad and his girlfriend

U-Turn Sunday

February 6th, 2006 WOW! Yesterday was truly a “Super” Sunday [and no, not because the Steelers won]. Yesterday was a great day because Brother James preached a great sermon on U-Turns, we had a great lesson in class, and we had a fantastic get together at the Dickey’s for the big game. Yesterday had all the ingredients necessary for a Super Sunday. Brother James brought a tremendous lesson from Revelation 1:12-17 about U-Turns for God. If you read the scripture, it specifically states that John heard a voice behind him and he turned to see where it was coming from. In other words, John made a U-Turn when he heard God’s voice and he turned to see where the voice was coming from…he made a U-Turn to find our what God wanted to say & reveal to him. The lessons we need to learn from these passages are: Turn willingly with a sense or reverence & responsibility to hear what God has to say so that He can reveal to us what He wants to accomplish through us Turn mindfully knowing that God is speaking directly to you Turn completely or you will miss something that God wants to show you Turn properly…with weak knees [v17] and wait for him to speak and send us forth Do you ever get tunnel vision going your own way towards your own goals with such fervor that you cannot hear the Lord? I do!!! Take time this weak to be still and quiet and let the Lord speak to you,….and let your prayer be “Lord, I will make the U-Turns you ask me to make”. We had a great Sunday School class and a great fellowship at the Dickey’s. Thank you Gary for allowing us all to share and learn through the lesson you prepared, and thank you Brad & Sonja for opening your home to us. Everyone had a great time and the only person we were missing was you [and those of you that could not make it were missed!] Last but not least, the church has been challenged by Brother James to memorize a Bible verse and apply it as our church wide theme for 2006 as we move to two Churches. He even made the congregation stand up and recite it yesterday [luckily, I knew it, do you?]. Here is the challenge verse: Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight:. Please keep all of the following prayer needs and requests lifted up for your Sunday School Class Family. Our God does answer our prayers so make sure you take time this week to intercede for your spiritual family. Have a blessed and Spirit filled week! SOCIALS & CHURCH CALENDAR CHILDREN’S CHOIR – 4 years old to 1st grade, started on 02/06 WILD GAME SUPPER / MEN’S MINISTRY – Thursday, February 9th. Bring dishes by 6 pm, meal starts at 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall. Silent Auction to benefit the Youth Choir Tour. SPECIAL MEETING FEBRUARY 12th, 2 pm – Farmington Congregation [those remaining at CHBC] in Fellowship Hall about the future of the week day pre-school program Church Wide Valentine’s Dinner” Wednesday, February 15th, 4:45 – 6:15pm – Spaghetti dinner offered on a donation basis will all monies going to World Hunger Men’s Retreat to Natchez Trace State Park – February 24 & 25 – see sign up sheet and details on church office window VBS Missions Opportunity on Gulf – Friday, May 19 – Sunday May 21 pm -Need 20 people to help with VBS, no cost. See Delayne Morris if interested. LADIES BIBLE STUDIES “The Book of James” – 6 weeks, taught by Peggy Butcher, begins February 7 at 9:30 am. Nursery provided. LADIES BIBLE STUDIES “The Patriarchs” by Beth Moore – 11 weeks, taught by Leigh Ann Baker [also available on Wednesday nights at 6 pm beginning February 8] Nursery Provided YOUTH CHOIR – Meets on Wednesday’s at 5:00 pm PRAYER GROUP AUXILIARIES – Monday at 9 pm; Thursdays at 7 pm PRAISES [Our God is good....ALL THE TIME!!!!] Jerry Sweeting – praise for all he does for the boys in RA’s and that their Bike-A-Thon raised $650 for Emily WIltshire Paul Palmer – praise that he had the privilege of leading Matthew in the prayer of salvation Debra Adkins – her Dad has been taken off the ventilator and she has another chance to talk with him about his salvation Tommy Esposito – visitor to class with Dewayne Eddington Paul Palmer – praise that he had the chance to meet with and confirm salvation with a former boss whom he respects very much HEALTH CARE UPDATES Debra Adkins – Dad was taken off the ventilator Saturday Sonja Dickey – Has TMJ, dog ate her mouth brace, and now she has cracked several crowns causing constant mouth pain. Debra Adkins – praise that Joseph’s eye are doing good and that he will get regular hearing aids instead of implants or surgery PRAYER NEEDS Kelley Benson – prayer for her mom, Martha Tucker, and brother Kevin Gunn, as they continue to struggle with the loss of Kelley’s step dad. Pray also that we will sell her home soon. Norma Morreale – prayer that Dominick’s job situation will improve and that God will make his enemies his footstools and prayer that their home will sell soon. Norma Morreale – unspoken Paul Palmer – facing decisions due to recent changes in his company and other job related situations, pray that he will make the right decisions Dewayne Eddington- Robert, the guy that sprays his yard, was forced out of business by his partner, pray he will get a new company up and running soon Rick & Lori Arwood – for sale of their home Jerry Sweeting – prayer for his friend Jimmy DIckey who took in his grand children, it has really upset his family life, son-in-law is going to parchman and has made death threats, pray that God will intervene int his situation. Praise that Jerry’s friend has accepted and invitation to the Wild Game Supper! Gary Blaylock – pray that God will raise it new teachers and servants for CHBC since so many are leaving to go to Getwell Rod Jeff & Gwen Cain – prayer for their family and marriage Dee Church – prayer for salvation for Jeff Bob & Kelley Benson – prayer for Brittany who is having a very hard time in the loss of her grandfather SPECIAL NEEDS FOR THE CHURCH FAITH TEAMS – next session begins January 17th [with Gary Blaylock, Deanna Gray, and Leigh Ann Baker from our class family participating and stepping out in faith] prayer that they will make an impact on the community and prayer for ease in the learning process Steven & Brandy Haynes and Michelle & Jesus Perez, possible new members for our class age group SALVATION FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY Bob Benson – Neel Rideout/business partner Kelley Benson – whole family + Bryan Petrich/Brother-in-law Paul Palmer – Margaret Ann Ferrez/Sister Susan Palmer – too many to narrow to one name Aimee Blaylock – too many to narrow to one name Gary Blaylock – Mike Mullins/Step Dad Leigh Ann Baker – extended family/in laws Dewayne Eddington – close friends, family, & co-workers Dee Church – Jeff/husband Kristi Rikard – Dennis/Brother in Law Lori Gilbert – Bud’s family Cathy Chandler – Candice & Joey/her sister & brother Norma Morreale – Russ & Joanna/Dominick’s Dad and his girlfriend