the Tidings
Taming the Tongue
I remember when I was seven years old, I had the opportunity to go to Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus at the Mid-South Coliseum. I was mesmerized by the elephants as they paraded around the ring, picked people up with their trunks, and stood on command. These huge beasts, if they were to get upset, could easily stampede and cause great harm and death. And, yet, they were completely tame. It took a lot of time, energy, and courage on the part of the trainer to accomplish such a feat. But all of that is easy compared to controlling the tongue, and not nearly as important.
“The tongue has the power of life and death,” says Proverbs 18:21. So, our speech, and the way we use our words, is no simple matter to be glossed over. As with everything else in life that belongs to God, we should learn to give our speech over to the Lord. I think, in the passage from James, we need to look at three aspects that we can learn concerning the importance of our words.
The Book of James says: “If anyone is never at fault in what he or she says, that person is perfect, able to keep one’s whole body in check.” To control one’s speech, one must be able to control one’s heart. And if a person’s heart is perfect, that person is perfect. James is saying that one’s speech is a spiritual matter. It takes dependence on God for a person to discipline one’s speech. James further makes the point by comparing our speech to a bit in the mouth of the horse, controlled by another. In the same way, God must be in control of our words we speak out loud, and words we use in social media.
Consider that, at Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles in tongues of fire. Speaking in tongues of other people, they proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ. The first thing the Spirit controlled was their speech. Why should we expect anything different?
The Apostle Paul said, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Eph. 4:29) He also wrote: “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather there should be thanksgiving.” (Eph. 5:4) And Jesus said, “The things which come out of the mouth come from the heart, and that is what defiles a person.” (Matthew 15:18) Our speech is a spiritual matter, and our words have the power to hurt or heal. Take care to tame the tongue.
Thank You to Susan Crowson
We share the news that Susan Crowson, our Director of Elder Care Ministries, will be leaving us at the end of February. She will be moving to East Tennessee to be closer to family. Susan has been with GUMC since July of 2023 and has brought a wealth of experience and compassion in her work with us. Seeing the position as more than a job, she has served with a zeal for ministry. We are very thankful for her dedicated work and ministry, and we wish God’s blessing in this new chapter of her life.
As Susan moves, we will receive Rev. Linda Gabriel and Richard Mattox, who will work as an Elder Care Team. Their information will be shared in the March Tidings.
Tim Carpenter Senior Pastor
Executive Minister
Rev. Dr. Scott Alford | salford@germantownumc.org
Executive Minister
In Isaiah 6:1-8, Isaiah was participating in an ordinary worship service a service very similar to those in which he had been in before, when he encountered God in such a way that allowed him to see with new eyes. This encounter with God enabled Isaiah to see himself for who he was. He writes, “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips.” Through this encounter with God, Isaiah felt forgiven and reconciled. God spoke and said, “Your guilt is departed and your sin is blotted out.” But that encounter with God didn’t end there, because it also empowered Isaiah for service. God was asking the seraphs in attendance who should be sent out, and Isaiah didn’t miss a beat and responded with, “Here I am; send me.”
Isaiah’s encounter with God was powerful; it was meaningful; and it was inspirational. It was something unplanned, unrehearsed, and uncontrollable, because God’s Spirit can in no way be programmed or controlled. Just as the wind blows where it chooses, so it is with God’s Spirit. Where have we encountered God in our lives?
I think of the movie “Pleasantville.” Pleasantville is a black and white community where people literally have to learn to live in color. Each person is transformed, or colorized, by discovering the passions within them which have either been repressed or ignored in order to maintain the status quo, the familiar, and the comfortable.
I think this has a lot to say to us about the ways in which we respond to our encounters with God; to the ways in which we are transformed by taking risks and by embracing a sometimes frightening process as we are confronted with who we are and then offered forgiveness and sent into the world with new eyes and new opportunities for service. Where have we encountered God, and where have we allowed God to colorize us?
If we’re honest with ourselves, we will have to admit that we sometimes resist our encounters with God. We will have to admit that we are often reluctant to accept the new vision and new direction God offers us. because, if we fully embrace our encounters with God, we will be forced to look at our misplaced priorities, our prejudices, our complacency, and our sin.
When we stand in the presence of the Lord of hosts and have an encounter with the divine, we have to echo the words of Isaiah: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a person of unclean lips and I live among a people of unclean lips.” We don’t like to do that. However, when we do, what we find is not punishment and judgment, but rather mercy and forgiveness. We hear the words, “Your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.”
That’s why we can fully embrace our encounter with God and accept the freedom and new life and new direction we are offered. With this forgiveness and transformation, we are colorized and energized. We are empowered and sent forth as a new creation with the assurance that we “have received a spirit of adoption” that we have God’s “Spirit bearing witness with our spirit,” testifying that we are God’s children (Romans 8).
Rev. Dr. Scott Alford
Rev. Mimi White | mwhite@germantownumc.org
Sundays | 11:00 am
Owings Life Enrichment Center
This month at Prism we are still in our series: “All About Forgiveness.” There is nothing more powerful that I can share with you than this following excerpt on forgiveness from one of my recovery books: How Alanon Works for Families and Friends of Alcoholics
“If we are truly in pursuit of a sense of inner peace that will help us deal with and enjoy whatever life brings, we must improve the way we interact with others. This doesn’t mean we close our eyes to the unacceptable or tolerate the intolerable. […] It simply means that we cultivate the ability to look beneath the surface. By shifting our focus away from the objectionable behavior and looking more deeply, we recognize a part of every human being that remains untouched by disease, the part of each of us that deserves unconditional love and respect regardless of the circumstances. It is equally possible to appreciate this quality in those whom we do not know as it is in someone with whom we hope to spend a lifetime. This is what forgiveness is all about. We don’t forgive the actions another person has chosen because it was never our job to judge the other person in the first place. Instead, we forgive when we acknowledge our common humanity with everyone, even the person we feel the most entitled to condemn. In this sprit, we can even forgive ourselves, no matter what we have done or how guilty or shame-filled we may feel, we too, deserve love. Forgiveness is no favor. We do it for no one but ourselves. We simply pay too high a price when we refuse to forgive. Lingering resentments are like acid eating away at us. […] Although we may despise what others have done, if we keep in mind that everything we are now trying to do has the goal of healing us, we are bound to decide that the best thing we can do for ourselves is to forgive.”
We don’t need to know an alcoholic for this to apply to us all – all human beings need to practice forgiveness to be healthy. We hope you will join us for this series on Sundays at 11 am in the OLEC and invite others to join you too!
Rev. Mimi White
Generosity
Ways to Give
We continue to receive estimates of giving for 2025, and it’s never too late!
We give generously because God has given (and still gives) generously to us.
• Cash and Checks - Given in the offering plates or mail
• Electronic Giving - See below
• Venmo: @GermantownUMC
• Text: “GIVE” to 901-910-1220
• Automatic Bank Drafts - Organized through your personal bank or the church office
• Required Annual Distributions from IRAs/Stock TransferOrganized through your broker
• Wills and Estate Planning - Organized through your attorney to designate the church as one of the beneficiaries
Go to our church website www.germantownumc.org and click on “Give”. Electronic Giving: 2025 Estimate of Giving
If reading this digitally, click here to give
Scan to Give
For help with any of these options, contact Sharon Panis in the church office.
Graham Heard, Finance Chair
Hospitality
Donna Haley, Hospitality Chair (Traditional) | dmhaley_99@yahoo.com | 901-487-8205
Jennifer Predmore, Hospitality Chair (Prism) | jenn_38138@yahoo.com | 901-230-1116
derived from a Latin word "hospes" meaning host, hospitality has its roots in ancient history. Ancient Greeks used the word "xenia" to define the sacred rule of hospitality: generosity and courtesy shown to guests and others to create a feeling of WELCOME.
The very concept of hospitality is grounded in , and at GUMC we it when you let us you with a welcome, some cookies, and a cup of coffee. And...
...we really it when you pay it forward and extend and a warm welcome to others.
Yolanda Toney | ytoney@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216
“Sodeeplydowecareforyouthatweare determinedtosharewithyounotonlythe gospelofGodbutalsoourownselves,because youhavebecomeverydeartous.”
~1Thessalonians2:8
“Churchistheplaceof weddings,births,and deaths.Itisaplacewhere wecanbeinvolvedas communitytohelprejoice andheal.”
Coping with the Death of a Loved One
March 3, 2025 | 10:30 am or 6 pm Room 339
Death comes to us all, whether it is the death of others or our own. Yet, we shy away from talking about it. While, as Christians, we understand that death is not the end, it does leave those behind experiencing a unimaginable void. Whether we experience personal loss or someone close to us does, it is helpful to have ways to cope or to support others. Grief is different for everyone. Some adjust as they go through the five stages of grief in the classic order, while others do not experience the five stages of grief in any particular order. Some do not experience the five stages at all. However grief is experienced, we have tools to support you.
Join us for Coping with the Death of a Loved One on Monday, March 3, at 10:30 am or 6:00 pm, in the main building, room 339. There is no cost, just register online at germantownumc.org to attend. (Both sessions will be the same.)
You will have an opportunity to listen or discuss, and to come away with some ways to cope with grief and to support others who are grieving. Yolanda Toney, Director of Care Ministries & Certified Lay Minister certified in Grief Care, will facilitate the seminar.
CLM Yolanda V.C. Toney Director Of Care Ministries
Care Ministries
Yolanda Toney | ytoney@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216
Are you being called from the pews into the mission field?
• Prayer Ministry - Join a team of volunteers who arrive 30-45 minutes before worship to pray throughout the church for all who enter the sanctuary before worship begins. The team also prays with the pastors. New members are welcome.
Contact Ruth M. King, 901-233-7495 or ruthmking@bellsouth.net.
• Welcoming First-Time Visitors - GUMC welcome bags, with information and cookies, are provided for firsttime visitors. Volunteers may occasionally bake, phone, and/or deliver welcome bags to guests’ homes or meet on Sunday at church.
Contact Sue Myers, 901-756-7919 or joelmyers1@comcast.net.
To serve in the following ministries, Contact Yolanda Toney, 901-754-7216 or ytoney@germantownumc.org:
• Grief Ministry - Commit to stay in touch with a person, who has suffered a close familial loss, for a year. Regularity of contact would be determined by the person affected by the loss and you. Contact might include calls, notes, or visits.
• Note/Card Writing Ministry - Once a month or less, you will write notes to assigned persons. Adults, youth, and children may contribute to this ministry.
• Calling Ministry - Monthly or bi-monthly (determined by you) you will call assigned persons to check in with them. These people may be ill, shut-ins, or may be absent from church for several Sundays.
• Meal Ministry - Occasionally persons or families may appreciate a meal during a difficult time. You would make the meal or purchase a meal and deliver it.
Churchwide
Join us on February 16 for a joyful gathering as we reflect on our service to the church and community in 2024.
Department leaders will share stories of lives transformed last year, inspiring us to continue God's mission with renewed passion to carry into 2025.
Music Ministry
Rev. Todd Wilson, Minister of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org
Music Ministry Hymnathon Fundraiser
Saturday, Feb. 8
Beginning at 8 am In the sanctuary
In June of 2024, several GUMC musicians attended Music and Worship Arts Week at Lake Junaluska, NC. This weeklong event offers daily worship, led by master musicians, liturgists, and preachers. The week also offers daily rehearsals for handbells, children's and adult choirs, and helpful seminars for church musicians. A result of attendance has been enriched worship artists, of all ages, from whom GUMC benefits. Let us be thankful for these participants! Another result is an interest in going again and taking more people, this time. Thus, the need for a fundraiser, as we seek to grow our very own worship artists and church music leaders.
• Sponsor choir members as they sing the entire hymnal in one day!
• The GUMC congregation is invited to come and sing at any point during the day, with other acts of participation available.
On February 8, we will offer a Hymnathon, a sing-through of one stanza of every hymn in the United Methodist Hymnal. Participating choristers will solicit sponsorships, and flat-rate gifts will be accepted. For example, Susanna Wesley level of support will be $100, Charles Wesley level of support will be $250, and John Wesley level of support will be $500. John was a righteous dude! You may sponsor your favorite choir member at $5 per hymn sung. If that choir member sings 500 hymns your support level would be $2500! Or perhaps a nickel per hymn sung is more doable for you. No worries, every choir member can gather more than one sponsor.
You, dear GUMC church member, will also be able to participate by dropping in throughout the day to sing along. You may stop the Hymnathon proceedings to request your favorite hymn to be sung, for a small fee, of course. However, anyone present has the option to re-stop proceedings, for a small fee, and cancel your request. “I Stand Amazed in the Presence” might get a little pricey! While I'm braced to be alone for a few hymns, my prayer is that you'll see this as a chance for fellowship that you won't want to miss. My goal for this fundraiser is $10,000. Every penny will be used to defray expenses related to attending Music and Worship Arts Week at Lake Junaluska. Any funds over and above the $10,000 will go to the Dell Harriman Music Endowment Fund.
Music Ministry
Rev. Todd Wilson, Minister of Music | twilson@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216
Join us for
Ash Wednesday Evensong
March 5 at 6:30 pm
in the GUMC sanctuary
EAsh Wednesday is a special day on our Christian Calendar. I’m grateful that we observe the many dates on our calendar that act as trailheads, marking a path to the season ahead. In this case, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of our Lenten journey. I pray you’ll be in attendance as we enjoy Ash Wednesday Evensong, a service that allows us to embrace the liturgy of our evening service from the Book of Worship and the Imposition of Ashes.
Older Adults
Luci Cromer, Chair | 901-755-0803 | luci2@comcast.net
AARP Smart Driver Course
Germantown United Methodist Church and AARP will present the “AARP Smart Driver Course,” the nation’s largest driving refresher course. This 8-hour course is scheduled for March 20 and 21 from 9 am-1 pm. Successful completion entitles participants to a discount on their auto insurance premiums for three years. There is no driving test or written exam. Register early, because the class will be closed at 28 participants. The results of taking these classes have been proven class participants have fewer accidents and tickets.
March 20 and 21 | 9 am-1 pm
WHERE: Room 339 in the Ministry Center.
WHEN: Thursday and Friday, March 20 & 21, 2025, 9 am-1 pm.
COST: $20 fee for AARP members ($25 for non-members) payable to AARP RESERVATIONS: Call George Coleman at 384-3581 DEADLINE FOR RESERVATIONS: Reservations will be taken until class is full.
The objectives of the course are to help you:
• Be independent, safe, and confident while on the road.
• Keep up with changes so you don’t put yourself and others at risk.
• Learn state-specific information throughout the course.
• Focus on areas such as roundabouts, pavement markings, stop-sign compliance, red-light running, and safety issues such as speeding and seatbelt and turn-signal use
Check your calendars and register now. Your check is your ticket to this class.
Older Adults
Luci Cromer, Chair | 901-755-0803 | luci2@comcast.net
Don’t Forget the February Brown Bag Lunch Program!
Matt Thompson, CEO and President of the Memphis Zoo, will present “The Future of the Memphis Zoo.” This presentation will be on Friday, February 7, 2025, in the fellowship hall. The program starts at 11 am with lunch at noon. Bring your own sack lunch; the church will supply the beverages. Call Luci Cromer, 755-0803, for more information. No reservations are needed.
There will be a crossing guard on West Street to help with overflow parking.
Learn about Planning for Long-Term Care at the March Brown Bag Lunch!
What do you think of when you hear about long-term care? Insurance policies, illness, disability? Long-term care is a range of services and supports you may need to meet your or someone you care for personal care needs. At some point in our lives, about 60 percent of people will need assistance with things like getting dressed, driving to appointments, or making meals. Planning is critical, but many people are not sure what is covered by insurance, and people are often misinformed about what is covered by Medicare. Professional help can save time, money, and stress. Matthew Rhoads is going to tell us how to become more knowledgeable and find resources that can help as we plan for long-term care at the March Brown Bag Lunch Series, an adventure in learning sponsored by the Older Adult Council.
TOPIC: “Planning for Long-Term Care”
SPEAKER: Matthew Rhoads, Attorney-at-Law, Douglass & Runger, PLLC
WHERE: Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall
WHEN: March 7, 2025. Program starts at 11 am; lunch is at noon. COST: FREE the church will supply beverages. RESERVATIONS: No reservations are needed. Just bring your sack lunch and enjoy the program and the fellowship. QUESTIONS? Call Luci Cromer, 901-356-0584.
**There will be a crossing guard on West Street to help with overflow parking.**
Friday Bridge Group Has Openings for New Members!
The weekly Friday Bridge Group meets in the Huddle from 10 am-2 pm for party bridge and fellowship. No partners are needed; just bring a sack lunch or a potluck dish to share. Contact Kay Lindamood, 901-754-6033, for more information.
Park in the east parking lot (Germantown Road side of the building) and go to the entrance under the portico. Press the button on the speaker box, and someone will buzz you into the building
Older Adults
Luci Cromer, Chair | 901-755-0803 | luci2@comcast.net
XYZs Attend Lenten Preaching Series in March!
As part of our observance of Lent, we are going downtown to hear Mihee Kim-Kort, an ordained Presbyterian minister, agitator, speaker, writer, and slinger of hopeful stories about faith and church. In 2021, she was named one of Center for American Progress’s “21 Faith Leaders to Watch.” She is co-pastor, with her spouse, of First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis, MD and a doctoral candidate in Religious Studies at Indiana University. After lunch, we will tour one of the oldest existing churches in Memphis, St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral. While the congregation dates to 1857, the present English Gothic Revival structure was begun in 1898, Join us for a private tour of this beautiful cathedral and learn the impressive history of this congregation.
WHERE: Calvary Episcopal Church and St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral
WHEN: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
COST: $5 per person plus lunch on your own
DEPARTURE: 10 am from OLEC parking lot. (Be there by 9:45 am)
RESERVATIONS: Call Luci Cromer, 901-356-0584, Gretchen Blair, 755-0797, or Garnet Brenneman, 754-3711. You must make your reservation before paying.
DEADLINE
FOR MONEY and RESERVATIONS: Wednesday, February 19
XYZs Learn About Weather and Nature in April!
Join us for a spring trip as we learn about the outdoors in several ways. We are going to have a private tour of the National Weather Service Forecast Office at Agricenter International. We will learn what the office is, what it does, and why. We will see the equipment used and learn about the various warning systems. After the tour, we are going to eat lunch at Coletta’s, which has been a mainstay on the Memphis Italian dining scene since 1923. On the way home, we will stop at Ducks Unlimited, founded in 1937, to conserve, restore, and manage wetlands and habitats for waterfowl. It also works to reverse the decline of wetlands and create wetlands that will support waterfowl populations. We are going to learn how DU does it and continues to get more people involved. Come with us to explore these two organizations that are just around the corner from Germantown.
WHERE: Agricenter International and Coletta’s Restaurant
WHEN: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
COST: $18 per person includes tours and lunch.
DEPARTURE: 9:15 am from OLEC parking lot. (Be there by 9 am)
RESERVATIONS: Call Luci Cromer, 901-356-0584, Gretchen Blair, 755-0797, or Garnet Brenneman, 754-3711. You must make your reservation before paying.
DEADLINE FOR MONEY and RESERVATIONS: Tuesday, March 11
St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral
Elder Care Ministry
Susan Crowson, Director | scrowson@germantownumc.org
Dear GUMC family,
| 901-758-6508
As I relinquish my position as Director of Elder Care Ministries this month, I am ever so grateful for the opportunity to serve our older members together. Your love and honor for them is palpable. Sunday School classes, teams of volunteers, children, and staff with all sorts of responsibilities have been attentive to them. Many of our elders express appreciation for their church family reaching out to them to comfort, to pray, to encourage, and to love them with visits, flowers, communion, shawls, musical programs, practical helps, enriching educational socials, cards, and calls. Those unable to physically attend in person know they have not been forgotten and feel connected to the church they have loved and been dedicated to for decades. GUMC has a sweet “Spirit in the Lord,” and one in which I treasure to have been a part. I appreciate each of you so much and hope we can connect as time passes.
We are moving to the Smoky Mountains in Maryville TN, Knoxville area. I'd love to meet folks you know in that area! Please encourage them to reach out to me.
With heart-felt love, Susan
The Beautiful Impact of Sanctuary Flowers
As a sponsor for sanctuary flowers, your donation serves to adorn the altar during worship and is then used by the Elder Care Ministry to serve an even greater purpose.
After the Sunday worship services, those beautiful flowers are separated into smaller bouquets to be delivered to GUMC members. Each week, the donation of sanctuary flowers directly blesses ten different people, every week of the year.
• Six individuals, who receive the flowers and are blessed by these gifts of love
• Two members, who lovingly serve by delivering the bouquets
• One volunteer, who uses their creativity when arranging the bouquets
• One Elder Care Director, who has the untold joy of determining to whom they are given
The beauty of our sanctuary flowers makes a beautiful impact with the Flower Ministry. You may honor or remember a loved one, celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or simply adorn our sanctuary with your gift of flowers..
For more information, click here to be directed to our church website, or scan the following QR code. You may also call Lisa Bell at 901-753-3100.
Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF)
Stephanie Adams, President | women@germantownumc.org
February Speaker Luncheon
February 11, 2025 | 11:30 am
Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall
It is with joy that we welcome Reverend Martha B. Wagley back to Germantown United Methodist Church. Rev. Wagley will be our Germantown United Women in Faith luncheon speaker on February 11, 2025, at 11:30 am in the Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall. All women are invited to join us for a catered meal, warm fellowship, and an inspirational message.
Rev. Martha B. Wagley, Pastor Emerita of Memphis First United Methodist Church, retired in 2009 after 29 years of ministry. During her tenure at the church (2002–2009), she guided the congregation through the aftermath of the tragic 2006 fire that destroyed its historic sanctuary.
Rev. Wagley previously served the UMC as Director of the Board of Ordained Ministry, supporting candidates entering the ministry. She also served as Senior Pastor at Germantown UMC (1995–1998) and as District Superintendent in Dyersburg, overseeing ministers in Tennessee and Kentucky (1989–1995). She led St. Matthew UMC, Springdale UMC, Mason UMC, and Braden UMC earlier in her career.
A Memphis native, Rev. Wagley graduated from Treadwell High School, earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis, and completed her Master of Divinity at Memphis Theological Seminary in 1980, graduating summa cum laude. She was a trustee at the seminary for eight years and delivered its commencement address in 1997.
Rev. Wagley is deeply involved in the community, holding leadership roles with the Memphis Ministerial Association, Downtown Churches Association, Downtown Neighborhood Association, and Mayor A.C. Wharton’s Faith-Based Council. She co-chaired the 2006 International Clergywomen’s Consultation, marking the 50th anniversary of women’s ordination in the UMC, and was a delegate to multiple UMC General, Jurisdictional, and World Methodist Conferences. Her accolades include being named one of “50 Women Who Make a Difference” by Memphis Woman Magazine in 2006 and graduating from the Leadership Memphis Executive Program in 2010.
She continues to serve in retirement, teaching at Memphis Theological Seminary and volunteering at First United Methodist Church. She and her husband, Jerry, enjoy life in downtown Memphis and international travel. They have two sons, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
Rev. Wagley reflects on her journey with gratitude, saying, “It has been a blessing to serve Jesus Christ through the United Methodist Church these 47 years since I was ordained, and I am grateful for all the opportunities God has given me and my family.”
Please make your reservation and payment of $12 by noon on February 6, 2025
Two methods to register:
• Credit card online at https://www.germantownumc.org/sign-up-events/
• Check payable to “GUWF,” memo “February Luncheon,” deposited in the GUWF drop box outside the Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall.
Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF)
Stephanie Adams, President | women@germantownumc.org
Spring/Summer GUWF
Children
s Consignment Sale
Shop Friday and Saturday, April 4 5
It's that time of year! Clean out the closet, rummage through the attic, and sort through the garage for children's clothing, furniture, toys, baby equipment, and more. GUWF Children's Consignment Sale registration is now open! Visit ConsignGermantown.com to review guidelines and details. All proceeds from this sale benefit GUWF missions. It's a 36-year tradition of community outreach!
Can't consign? We love donations! Coordinate with us up to two weeks in advance of the sale to donate your gently used items. We will price and tag each item, with 100% of the sale price going to local missions! You will receive an early consignor shopping pass in return, along with a thank you letter as your receipt for tax purposes. Please be sure your donated items have an approximate value of more than $40.
Email info@ConsignGermantown.com for more information.
We also need volunteer help and have many shifts available! Volunteers who work at least four hours get to shop early at the Thursday pre-sale event. We have a tremendous need for volunteers on Saturday afternoon. Since the Prism worship service uses the OLEC on Sundays, we will need lots of hands to help us sort through unsold merchandise and get the gym back in order. This GUMC Day of Service opportunity will have two threehour shifts, 12:30 - 3:30 pm and 3:30 - 6:30 pm. Those who work both will be eligible for the earliest pre-sale shopping time.
Click here to sign up for a volunteer shift or scan this QR code with a mobile device.
Our consignment sale serves as a wonderful outreach to the community, drawing people into our church from all over the Mid-South as consignors, shoppers, and volunteers. Join us and help make a difference. Thank you for your support!
Continued...
...Continued
Germantown United Women in Faith (GUWF)
Stephanie Adams, President | women@germantownumc.org
Important Dates
Consignor Registration Deadline/Inventory Entry
Tuesday, April 1 at midnight
Refer to the website for complete information about accepted merchandise and consignor instructions.
Consignor Drop Off
Wednesday, April 2, 5-8 pm and Thursday, April 3, 8 am-1 pm
Private Pre-Sale
Thursday, April 3, 5:30-8 pm
Volunteers who work eight or more hours or both Day of Service shifts on Saturday (only six hours) may shop at 5:30 pm. Those who volunteer four or more hours may shop at 6 pm. Consignors may shop at 6:30 pm.
All women are invited!
Public Sale
Friday, April 4, 8 am-3 pm
Public Half-price Sale
Friday, April 4, 5-8 pm and Saturday, April 5, 8 am-1 pm
Consignor Pick-up Saturday, April 5, 6:30-8:30 pm
Tuesday, February 25 | 6:30 pm
Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall and the chapel
Join us for this cherished annual event where we prepare our hearts and minds for the season of Lent.
We will begin with a meaningful time of fellowship while enjoying desserts and coffee in the Fellowship Hall. We will then proceed through candlelit hallways and convene in the chapel for special music and a time of reflection and devotion. Contact Chesley Porteous, chesleyporteous@gmail.com, for more information.
While the event is free, space is limited to 100 women. Register online here or scan the QR code with a mobile device. Free preschool childcare is available upon request.
All women are welcome to participate in Germantown United Women in Faith events. If you are looking for the camaraderie of Christian women, fellowship while serving others, and the opportunity to make lifelong friends, consider joining one of GUWF’s many circles (small groups). For information about GUWF, contact our Membership Chair, Chesley Porteous, at chesleyporteous@gmail.com.
Adult Education
Mary Groh, Director | mgroh@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216
Reading the Old Testament Through Jewish Eyes
Tuesdays, February 11 – April 1 (skipping February 25)
6:30-7:30 pm
Facilitator: Terry Aust
Cost: $12.00
In this DVD study by Rabbi Evan Moffic, we will explore the Torah the first five books of the Hebrew Bible and highlight points of interest to Christians. We will learn about the role of the Torah in Jewish worship and practice and explore the key themes of each book, guided by the wisdom of Jewish interpreters through the centuries. Join us in this study of the Torah and find rich new insights into the biblical story. Discover how the Torah can be a source of wisdom, truth, and transformation in your life.
Women’s Bible Study Starting in March!
The Gospel of John Savoring the Peace of Jesus in a Chaotic World
Wednesdays, March 5 – April 23 9:45-11:45 am, via Zoom
Facilitator: Chesley Porteous
Cost: $23.00
In this 7-session study, author Melissa Spoelstra will encourage you to slow down and linger with the Living Word. As you turn the pages of John’s Gospel, you’ll be challenged to take on the posture of a learner understanding that the peace Jesus offers is not an ease of circumstances, but a stillness of the soul. As a result, you’ll grow in intimacy with God and learn to live, serve, and rest in God’s peace.
Adult Education
Mary Groh, Director | mgroh@germantownumc.org | 901-754-7216
Monday Monthly Book Group 2025
4th Monday of the Month
10:00 am 12:00 pm Room 338
February 24
Little
Ashley Bristow
There is no need to register. Just purchase the book (or check out from the library) and join us for a spirited discussion!
For questions, please contact Mary Groh.
March 24
April 28
Germantown United Methodist Church welcomed Ashley Bristow into membership on Sunday, January 12, at our Prism worship service. She joined by Restored by Affirmation of Faith.
Cindy and Barry White
Germantown UMC welcomed Cindy and Barry White into membership on Sunday, January 19, at the 11:00 traditional worship service. They joined by transfer of their memberships from Maples Memorial UMC, Olive Branch, Mississippi. Todd Wilson is their Welcome Friend.
When asked what about GUMC made them want to become a part of our church community, they replied: "We were attracted, first, to the top-notch adult/chancel choir program and, especially, by Director, Todd Wilson. We were also impressed by the very large children’s ministries (even though our children are both middleaged adults.) Finally, we were impressed by the many ministry and adult programs and activities. Everything is very well organized. The congregational energy is palpable.”
The
Village of Booklovers by Nina George
Bloomsbury Girls
by Natalie Jenner
The Women by
Kristen Hannah
Missions
Anne Fritz, Chairperson | clarissafritz@att.net
Through Christian community and faith-based relationships, we help meet the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of all people we encounter.
Mountain T.O.P.’s service area encompasses the South Cumberland plateau region of Appalachia. Its goals are to:
• ALLEVIATE substandard housing, providing direct services and organizational support that addresses the severe housing issues in the area;
• HEAL by promoting healthy lifestyle choices;
• DEVELOP solutions with community partners to create holistic and sustainable growth;
• LEAD by promoting growth among the community, participants, donors, and staff; and
• EDUCATE by providing and sustaining lifelong learning among all age groups.
Most GUMC members have heard of Mountain T.O.P., because the church has been going there since 1979, when six youth went with Mrs. Jolly for the first time. Some of you, your children, and grandchildren may have been on summer mission trips to help with home repair. Others may have gone for a weekend in the spring or fall as part of Adults in Ministry (A.I.M.)
Mountain T.O.P. has a variety of programs. During week-long missions in the summer, youth and adults complete home repair projects or serve as mentors in Day Camp. Adults in Ministry seeks to bring adults together to complete vital structural repairs and renovations of local homes that would not be possible otherwise. Mountain T.O.P. also is available for retreats and long service weekends in the spring.
Mountain T.O.P. began in 1975 when a youth group, led by George Bass from Blakemore United Methodist Church, in Nashville, TN, decided to put their faith into action. They spent that first summer working with families, meeting expressed needs, and making repairs to homes. Germantown United Methodist volunteers joined them in the summer of 1979 and have been going for the last 46 years.
“I thought that this would just be a fun week with friends. While it was, it also changed my relationship with God for the better.”
- 2023 Mission Camper
In the mid 80’s, under the leadership of Richard Stewart, our youth director, the groups got larger and larger until, in 1991, we had 97 volunteers, so we had to split into three different camps. What an era! While, recently, GUMC and Mt. T.O.P. have not had the participation of the 80’s and 90’s, we have continued to support and participate in Mountain T.O.P. every year. Our Adults in Ministry team of six to eight volunteers, lead by Linda Colebank, Scott Thurner, and Doug Warner, has been going for over 30 years and enjoying every minute of their time on “The Mountain”.
GUMC’s Scott Thurner, Linda Colebank, and Doug Warner Adults in Ministry at Mountain T.O.P. (2014)
...Continued
Missions
Anne Fritz, Chairperson | clarissafritz@att.net
John Pearson has joined the group regularly over the last 10 years or so. Also, Steven Solomon has been critical to the success of this mission, as he has served two 3-year terms as President of our Board at Mt. T.O.P. He started as a youth under Brian Hailey’s leadership.
Brian Hailey played an important role as the leader of a YRG (Youth Renewal Group) that made trips to Mt. T.O.P. in the 90’s and 2000’s. Brian was a dedicated leader for Mt. T.O.P., and, for several years he would go to Jimmy Whittington Lumber, get a trailer full of donated lumber, and take it to “The Mountain” for us all to use in home repairs.
In 1999, GUMC built a cabin at a new Mt. T.O.P. camp on Baker Mountain. This was built in honor and memory of Lindsey Preston, a dedicated Mt. T.O.P. participant, who died in a car wreck in 1997. Her parents, Bob and Dena Stout, led a group of twenty-five volunteers (pictured below), who got the floor structure, walls, and rafters up in the cabin on the very first day of work!
It has been said that a good preacher will bring six to eight people to Christ in a year, while a week at Mountain T.O.P. serving and sharing your love will bring about 15 to 20 of the 100 people in camp to accept Christ in their lives.
Mountain T.O.P. 1999 - GUMC volunteers built a cabin in honor of Lindsey Preston, a youth who died in a car wreck two years prior.
“It has been a humbling experience serving another community in need. Each time I come, I'm inspired to be more mindful of planting seeds at home, serving, and being fishers of people.”
- 2023 AIM camper
Brian Hailey (far right) and his youth renewal group posing with a homeowner and recipient of their hard work and service. (2006)
If you would like GUMC to keep your ICE contacts on file with your membership information, fill out this form located on our website and return it to the Welcome Center. To access this form, click here or scan the following QR code.
Germantown United Methodist Preschool (GUMP)
Sarah Sutton, Director | ssutton@germantownumc.org
GUMP hopes that your new year is off to a wonderful start! We have had a great beginning of our second semester and continue to serve families with an ageappropriate curriculum enhancing all developmental domains. GUMP strives to serve all of our friends and support each family through the journey of early education. We are thankful for our dedicated and highly qualified teachers!
This month our classes began our unit on “Matters of the Heart.” It is so fun to see our dramatic play areas transformed to hospitals, dentist offices, veterinarian clinics and more. Our classes discussed community helpers and all the ways that they help us. Our older friends talked about different careers and their interests. Another topic was our own heart and ways to take care of ourselves to promote healthy habits. Most importantly, our friends learned about kindness and love. In chapel, they discussed God’s love for us and how we share that love with others. We love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:19)
We have continued with our social emotional learning class for our 3-5 year-olds with Ms. Kailey. This class is an interactive story time based on the series A Little Spot of Feelings, by Diane Alber. As a part of typical child development, our friends can have big feelings such as happy, sad, angry, and worry. For our older preschoolers, we talk about more in-depth emotions such as confidence and empathy. These books provide our young readers and listeners easy explanations and realistic strategies to understand emotions and apply coping strategies to everyday life. The colorful illustrations and age-level examples help give our little friends ways to identify the feelings they encounter and an appropriate way to manage them. Our classes look forward to Ms. Kailey’s SEL lessons, and our classrooms teachers can carry over the concepts with The Little Spot of Feelings book collection provided for each classroom.
GUMP is currently accepting applications for enrollment for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. Our current families have recently completed enrollment, and GUMP is now accepting applications from families in the community. If you or someone you know is interested in visiting or attending GUMP, please call our preschool office at 901-753-3109. Part of the enrollment process includes parents and their potentially-enrolling child coming for a parent/child meeting. During these meetings, families learn more about our preschool and determine if we are a great fit for your family. We love meeting families and sharing what GUMP has to offer.
Children’s Ministry
Natalie Adkinson, Director | nadkinson@germantownumc.org
Janelle Crist, Assoc. Director, Nursery | jcrist@germantownumc.org
Hayley Heard, Assoc. Director, Elem. | hheard@germantownumc.org
WOW (Worship on Wednesdays)
Wednesdays, through March 12 | 6-7:30 pm | Fellowship Hall (not meeting March 5 due to Ash Wednesday service)
For preschoolers through 5th grade. Dinner for elementary school students will be served at 6 pm in the fellowship hall, followed by engaging activities to recharge our hearts and spirits. Preschoolers meet in the Hamilton Nursery for dinner and fun! Registration is required, so we can plan for food. Register online by each Tuesday at noon!
Dates to remember:
March 5 – Ash Wednesday service (No WOW)
March 12 – Last WOW for spring semester
April 19 – Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 – Easter Sunday
June 2-6 - VBS 2025
Children’s Ministry
Natalie Adkinson, Director | nadkinson@germantownumc.org
Janelle Crist, Assoc. Director, Nursery | jcrist@germantownumc.org
Hayley Heard, Assoc. Director, Elem. | hheard@germantownumc.org Registration is now open for these popular summer children’s events!
To register online, click here or scan the following QR code.
Is your child a budding actor/actress? Does he/she love performing in front of others?
Join us for Music & Arts Camp!
Music & Arts Camp
Week 1
“Let’s Rock!”
June 23-27 | 9 am-3 pm
For kids entering 2nd - 6th grades in Fall 2025
Children will meet each day to prepare for a performance for parents/families/friends at the end of the week. The children will perform “Let’s Rock!”, a musical that reminds us that the Christian life is not a solo act; we are all the body of Christ. Ms. Cheryl McClurg is the director for this camp.
Children will be provided with scripts, props, & costumes. They will bring their own lunch each day. This camp is limited to the first 25 children signed up. The cost is $150/child. Scholarships are available by contacting Natalie Adkinson.
Elementary Mission Camp
July 7-11 | 9:30 am-3 pm
For kids entering 5th and 6th grade
In this hands-on camp, we will explore three specific types of mission: inner-church mission, urban mission, and rural mission. Each child will have a chance to experience different types of work, hopefully creating an appetite for missional work. Some days we will make our lunches here at church, and other days we will explore some Memphis eateries. We will finish each day with some seriously fun gaga ball or other games at Prescott House. Space is limited to the first 24 children registered. Cost is $150/child (which includes all activities, transportation, food, and a T-shirt.)
Music & Arts Camp
Week 2 “A Play in a Manger”
July 28—Aug 1 | 9 am-3 pm
For kids entering 2nd - 6th grades in Fall 2025
Children will meet each day to prepare for a performance for parents/families/friends at the end of the week. The children will perform “A Play in a Manger,” an over-the-top, down-toearth musical about the simple truth of Jesus’ birth. Ms. Cheryl McClurg is the director for this camp.
Children will be provided with scripts, props, & costumes. They will bring their own lunch each day. This camp is limited to the first 25 children signed up. The cost is $150/child. Scholarships are available by contacting Natalie Adkinson.
Youth
Chloe Granberry, Director of Middle School & Confirmation | cgranberry@germantownumc.org Caasi Grove, Director of High School Ministries | cgrove@germantownumc.org
Chillax Middle School Lock
-in
This past December, we had a blast at our annual middle school lock-in, Chillax! Twenty-three middle schoolers participated in this annual event. We started out the night with Chick-fil-a, then piled into vans to go see “Mufasa” at a movie theater. After the movie, we headed to Putt-Putt Golf and Games for laser tag and arcade games until two am, before ending up at the OLEC for traditional lock-in
After an entire night of fun, a youth “sacks out” while waiting for parent pick-up in the morning.
fun! We played video games and basketball and ate loads of snacks and sweets. Fun was truly had by all, even those who didn’t quite stay up the entire night. [gumc
youth]
Element Kickoff
In January, we had a blast at our Element Kickoff! We enjoyed tacos, a three-on-three basketball tournament, a photo booth, a friendship bracelet-making station, and a board games station. We are so excited for Element this semester, and we’ll continue to have lots of fun and community throughout the new year!
Chloe Granberry,
Grove,
Discovery Weekend February 21-
23
Discovery Weekend is coming soon! This fun and inspiring annual event takes place on campus at Germantown UMC and is planned by the high schoolers for the middle schoolers.
During the course of the weekend, high school students will give talks and lead small groups, Sunday school classes provide meals for the kids, and we will worship together. It really is our biggest retreat of the year, and the whole church comes together to support and pray for our kids.
Registration for Discovery Weekend is available on the church website. To register, click here or scan the following QR code. Registration deadline Feb 17
We need all the help we can get for this amazing weekend. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Chloe or Caasi!
Pickleball at the OLEC
Please
Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC)
Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org
Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org
Workouts for New Moms
Exercise with your child!
(Women without babies are always welcomed to any of our class offerings!
Monday 9:30-10:45 am
(alternates between Stroller Barre and Strides 360)
Stroller Barre®
Stroller Barre® is a 60-minute stroller workout that improves your posture, stability, and mobility while strengthening your body from the inside out! Reconnect with your body, increase flexibility, and find the inner strength you need for motherhood.
Strides 360®
Increase your endurance and speed to sprint through mom life with Strides 360®! Come play with your mom friends, with or without the stroller, during this 60-minute, heart-pumping workout that will energize you for the rest of your day!
Wednesday 9:30-10:45 am
Friday 9:30-10:45 am
Stroller
Strides®
Stroller Strides® is a 60-minute total-body workout with strength, cardio, and core training, all while engaging with the little ones in a stroller! You’ll leave class feeling strong, empowered, connected, and energized no matter your stage of motherhood.
Monday 6:15-7:15 pm
Body Boost®
Body Boost® is a 60-minute mom-only workout that is challenging, empowering, and energizing. By combining cardio, strength, core training, and meditation, you will leave this workout refreshed and recharged for all that comes with motherhood.
Wednesday 6:15-7:15 pm
Body Ignite®
Body Ignite is a mom-only strength workout that targets every muscle in your body. This easy-to-follow program will increase your metabolism, athleticism, and ability to lift, lunge, and push everything mom-life throws your way!
Discount for church members. Email memphis@fit4mom.com for more info!
BALL.ATES WITH CAMI
your body
Join us on Mondays at 9 am for a ball.ates class to sculpt your body. This challenging class will energize you for the new year. Reserve your spot today!
Text Cami at 901-831-1061 to join us.
Germantown Martial Arts
Tuesdays and Thursdays
Ages 12 and up
Beginner class at 5:45 pm
Advanced class at 6:45 pm
Call Ralph White (901-490-1410 ) or David Porteous (901-846-6851) for more information.
9-10 am
Ball.ates (DR)
9:30-10:45 am
Stroller Barre (DR)
3:30-4:30 pm
Gentle Yoga (DR)- Al Walton
Owings Life Enrichment Center (OLEC)
Gordon Kelly, Director | gkelly@germantownumc.org
Kimberly Marsh, Assistant Dir. | kmarsh@germantownumc.org
Exercise Class Schedule February 2025
10-11 am
Walk Fit (DR) Judy Pearson
9:30-10:45 am
Stroller Strides (DR)
2-3 pm
Vinyasa Yoga (DR)-Al Walton
3:30-4:30 pm
Gentle Yoga (DR)- Al Walton
10-11 am
Chair Class (DR) Judy Pearson
5:00-6:00 pm
Vinyasa Yoga (DR) Al Walton
6:15-7:15 pm
5:45 pm Beginner
Martial Arts (DR)
Body Boost (DR) 6:45 pm Advanced Martial Arts (DR)
Check out these other classes we offer:
Gentle Yoga
Mon & Wed 3:30-4:30 pm
Senior fitness
Tues/Thurs 10-11 am
Vinyasa Yoga
Mon 5-6 pm & Wed 2-3 pm
6:15-7:15 pm
Body Ignite (DR)
5:45 pm Beginner
Martial Arts (DR)
6:45 pm
Advanced Martial Arts (DR)
Open Play Gym Time
Mon: None Tues/Thurs: 12-4:30 pm Wed: 12:30-3:30 pm
Please note: Free play time is for church members only.
All guests can purchase a $10.00 day pass.
Follow our Instagram page, @olecgermantown, to keep up with all the latest happenings at the OLEC.
9:30-10:45 am
Stroller Strides (DR)
Class Locations:
Weight Room—WR
Dance Room DR Upstairs Room UP
Group Exercise Classes and Personal Training are available at the OLEC. Contact Gordon Kelly or Kim Marsh for more information.
Germantown United Methodist Church
2331S.GermantownRd
Germantown,TN 38138
901-754-7216 www.germantownumc.org
Editor’sNote: The deadline for submitting articles for Tidings is the 10th of the prior month. Submissions received after this deadline are not guaranteed to run.
