PNN 4.02.09

127 Bethany Cove Dr.
Pickens, SC 29671
Phone: 864.878.3478
Fax: 864.897.8006
www.scwesleyan.org

But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62 NLT)

PRAYER FOCUS

Church for this week: (3/30/09) Glenville – Ralph and Mavis Campbell

Church for next week: (4/6/09) Glenwood – Roger and Jean Rhoads

Church for the next week: (4/13/09) Golden Grove – Larry and Marci Burke

  • Mrs. Bob Cooley (Norma) has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is undergoing treatment beginning this week. Bob is the Music Pastor at United Wesleyan in Easley.
  • Dr. John Newby, former President of Southern Wesleyan University, has taken a dramatic turn for the worse and is now under Hospice care.
  • Charlotte Bodenhorn had sinus surgery on Tuesday at the Medicus Health Center.
  • Rev. Ray Lewis (Retired) is now in rehabilitation following surgery for a broken hip.
  • Rev. Wayne Tippey (Retired) is home recovering from surgery during which stents were implanted. Rev. Tippey is the father of Mrs. Dale Link (Cheryl).
  • Rev. Michael Stepp (Carlisle) continues to make good progress following his back surgery.
  • Mrs. Herbert Taylor (Carolyn) is continuing her chemo for cancer.
  • Continue to pray for the physical needs of Rev. Darlene Teague.
  • Pray for Mrs. Chet Rowan (Kathy) whose treatment for MS continues.
  • The families of Saul Rodriguez, Jimmy Williams, and Beulah Groves.
  • Brian Hall, son of Richard and Sharon Hall (Eden) who is in Iraq.
  • South Coastal DS Dan Berry and his wife, Shelley http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danshelleyberry.

Congratulations to Rick and Maria Gilbert (Bethany).  Their fourth grandchild, Sara Marie Gilbert, born to Derrick & Sunny Gilbert, arrived on Monday, March 23, at 11:59am.  Sara weighed 7 lb. 14 oz. and measured almost 20 inches in length.

What’s Been Happening

The five inches of rain that fell last week at Table Rock has the nearby stream making sounds I haven’t heard for awhile. I enjoyed some time spent walking/hiking the first of the week and nature’s Spring is certainly coming on strong. In the spiritual realm, Spring can also be the reality as we approach Holy Week with its reminders of the passionate love and powerful faithfulness of our God.

A highlight of last week was a Day Alone with God (spent in a room in the Retreat Center since there was no place to go outside due to the rain). Reflecting, reading and praying while removed from the familiar for an extended time is refreshing. I recommend it.

I met with the district youth nominating committee and cabinet on Monday evening and rejoiced in the commitment and passion of these people who are making a difference. We are certainly blessed to have a corps of quality youth leaders in our district. I also made a trip to Columbia to meet with a prospective pastor, and while there, I was able to spend some time with three very special colleagues . . . Jeff Shipman, Jason Malone and Kyle Estep. Also during the week, I met with a local church nominating committee in addition to some other meetings.

On Friday, Joan and I traveled to Myrtle Beach for the weekend. Joan participated in the district Wesleyan Women Retreat and I had the opportunity to “hang out” with colleagues Dan LeRoy and Ernest Mullins from the NC East District. For the past two years, our SC ladies and the NC East ladies had been having their retreats at the same place at the same time, our districts joined together for this year’s event. Great idea! Approximately 370 attended what has been described as an incredible weekend of inspiration, encouragement and fellowship as speaker Carol Kent shared messages on principles of hope, faith, and spiritual authenticity. Joan and Cynthia LeRoy had the privilege of praying with a young lady who came to their prayer station with some friends and said, “I want to receive Jesus right now!” On behalf of the district, I want to express my sincerest appreciation to Outreach Director Julie Kellett and her committee for their planning, praying and implementation of such a great weekend.

We guys did make an “appearance” on Friday evening, but otherwise enjoyed our own times of fellowship and sharing. These men are precious brothers and cherished friends of mine whose friendship and fellowship is so thoroughly enriching.

On Sunday morning, Jim Townes from the Faith Wesleyan Church picked me up at the hotel for my visit to the church. This visit represented a first for me . . . a visit made with the pastor away. Pastor Scott Smith began revival services at the Old Zion Wesleyan Church in Tabor City that morning, but Lisa and the children were there, which prevented me from straying from my notes too far! This is always such a positive place to worship and share, and this Sunday morning was no exception. The Holy Spirit was present and I sensed that needs were met. It was a special treat to see former pastor Olie Kent and his wife, Elsie, along with several other leftover “snowbirds.” The Kents are precious people and God blessed their ministry in Little River in such a beautiful way. Pastor Scott made it back to the restaurant in time for lunch and an extended sharing/teaching time with the LBA. Joan and I then made our way back to the upstate, visiting briefly with my parents before arriving home and watching a recorded edition of the basketball games played in the afternoon . . . long day and late night!

I do pray that this significant time in the church year will be a blessed season for you and your church. We are looking forward to some sacred times of worship in the upcoming days.

Believing in each other,

Pastor Buddy

News and Information

You are invited to special services at Amistad and Greenville, First during the Easter weekend. These churches have joined together to have special Friday, Saturday, and Easter Sunday Services. “On Friday we will be at Amistad with a service titled Journey to the Cross, which will be in both languages, from 6:30-7:30. Saturday at 6pm we will be presenting the Jesus Film at the G1 main Sanctuary, and on Sunday Morning we will be having a Sunrise Easter Service at G1 at 7:30am with breakfast following the Sunrise Service. We would love to have you or anyone that is not doing something already come out and join these historic services between the two churches.”

– Frankie Rodriguez, Assistant Pastor, Amistad Cristiana

You are invited by First Haitian Evangelical Wesleyan Church of Mauldin to come and celebrate its first anniversary on April 19, 2009, at 2pm. Two services will be held prior to this date. One on Friday, the 17th at 6pm and our first service of Christian Baptism on Saturday, the 18th at 5pm and followed by a regular service at 6pm. You are invited to come and see what God is doing among us. – Pastor Patrick Gué

Human trafficking is the modern-day form of slavery.  Victims of trafficking are subjected to force, fraud, or coercion, for the purpose of sexual exploitation or forced labor.  There are currently over 27 million slaves worldwide, of which over 50% are children.  It is estimated that this 32 billion-dollar industry will soon surpass the use of drugs and alcohol.

Young children, teenagers, men, and women are all victims.  Approximately 600,000 to 800,000 people annually are trafficked across international borders, and thousands are trafficked into the United States.  It is sickening to realize this industry employs people full-time to look for vulnerable victims in North America.

Wesleyan Women announces training to abolish human trafficking:

September 10-12, 2009

The Wesleyan Church World Headquarters in Fishers, Indiana

Who should attend?

Individuals, church and community leaders who are willing to learn and serve as trainers and caregivers of trafficking victims

What is the curriculum?

The curriculum uses a community-based holistic approach to addressing the needs of trafficking survivors, and will be taught by professional trainers.

What will the training cover?

· Defining and understanding human trafficking

· Biblical framework for Christian response

· Trafficking in persons community assessment

· Cultural issues in trafficking and trauma

· A holistic approach to aftercare – understanding the spiritual, physical, psychological, and social needs of survivors

· Combating the demand for commercial sex

What is the cost?

$125 (due with the registration form) This fee includes training, curriculum, meals: continental breakfast (Thursday-Saturday), lunch (Thursday–Saturday), and dinner (Thursday and Friday). Transportation and lodging expenses are not included, but lodging in local homes is available for those coming long distances.  Contact the Wesleyan Women office if you want to stay in a local home.

How do I register?

The following link will take you to the registration form:

https://regserv.wesleyan.org/eventmanager/OnlineRegistration.asp?EventCode=A1F

World Hope International announces new CEO

The Board of Directors of World Hope International has appointed Dr. Karl D. Eastlack as its new Chief

Executive Officer, effective May 1, 2009. The Reverend Dr. Eastlack brings a wealth of leadership experience

from his 22‐year tenure at Eastern Hills Wesleyan Church, Trusteeship of Houghton College, and prior

service on the Board of World Hope International (WHI).

DS Schedule for April

1

ReFocus

4

Golden Grove ReFocus

5

DIV

6

GS/DS Cluster

Central

7-8

SWU Trustees

Central

8, 9

DS Round Table

Lawrenceville, GA

12

Easter

AM

14

Leadership Team

BYF Luncheon

AM

Noon

15-18

Church Planter Assessment Center

TR

17

Hispanic Ministries Advisory Council

19

Healing Waters Dedication Service

Beaufort

21

Nominating Committee

22

Day Alone With God

23

SWU – Dr. Lehmann Service

24-26

District Wesleyan Men’s Retreat

Myrtle Beach

27

FWC/ALIVE Staff Meeting

Central

Quote for the Week

Spiritual leaders are not elected, appointed, or created by spiritual assemblies. God alone makes them. One does not become a spiritual leader by merely filling an office, taking course work in the subject, or resolving in one’s will to do this task. A person must qualify to be a spiritual leader.

– J. Oswald Sanders, Spiritual Leadership

Humor for the Week

A preacher said to a farmer, “Do you belong to the Christian family?”
“No,” he said, “I think they live two farms down.”
“No, I mean are you lost?”
“No, I’ve been here thirty years.”
“I mean, are you ready for Judgment Day?”
“When is it?”
“Could be today or tomorrow.”
“Well, when you find out for sure when it is, you let me know.  My wife will probably want to go both days!”

Buddy Rampey
District Superintendent
South Carolina District – The Wesleyan Church
www.scwesleyan.org

PNN 3.20.09

 
   

Pastor’s News and Notes

March 20, 2009
 
127 Bethany Cove Dr. w Pickens, SC 29671 w Phone: 864.878.3478
 

 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
      for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.
   He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,
      that the blind will see,
   that the oppressed will be set free,
      19 and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come”

                                                                              (Luke 14:18, 19 NLT)

PRAYER FOCUS

 

Church for this week: (3/16/09) Frontline – Jeff and Dana Mahaffey

Church for next week: (3/23/09) Glendale – Frank and Mary Faye Cantrell

Church for the next week: 3/30/09) Glenville – Ralph and Mavis Campbell

 

  • DBA Meeting on March 21
  • Wesleyan Women’s Retreat (March 27-29, Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach, SC)
  • Rev. Wayne Tippey (Retired) had surgery on March 19 during which stents were inserted.  It is hoped that he can go home by the weekend.  Rev. Tippey is the father of Mrs. Dale Link (Cheryl).
  • Rev. Michael Stepp (Carlisle) had major back surgery on March 11 and is recuperating at home.
  • Mrs. Herbert Taylor (Carolyn) is continuing her chemo for cancer.
  • Continue to pray for the physical needs of Rev. Darlene Teague, a situation worsened by a lapse in her insurance coverage.
  • Continue to pray for Mrs. Chet Rowan (Kathy) whose treatment for MS continues.
  • The families of Saul Rodriguez, Jimmy Williams, and Beulah Groves.
  • Brian Hall, son of Richard and Sharon Hall (Eden) who is in Iraq.
  • South Coastal DS Dan Berry and his wife, Shelley   http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danshelleyberry. 

 

We extend our sympathy to the family of Mrs. Lynn Parker, a former pastor’s wife in the South Carolina District, especially remembering her only child, a daughter, Aimee.  The service was held on Wednesday at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley. 

 

What’s Been Happening

I am completing this with my 9-month-old granddaughter, Marlowe, eating some breakfast and “applauding” my efforts as I sit at the dining table.  It is such a delight to have children and grandchildren in the house this weekend.

The last two weeks have been filled with special events and more than the usual amount of travel.  The first of the month brings the ReFocus meetings with the pastors and congregations.  Those who are participating in this resource offered by the district are benefitting tremendously.  We are grateful that we can provide this opportunity for growth and development.

This was followed by a three-day visit in our district by the denomination’s Spiritual Formation team.  A trip to the Myrtle Beach area was very beneficial sf-children-092and well-received and gave opportunity for times of fellowship both there and during the trip coming and going.  Several pastors and some laypersons joined us for a dinner fellowship and sharing on Friday evening.  The SF team visit was capped by the rally at the Greenville, First Church on Saturday. There were 112 registered participants for this time of training, encouragement and inspiration.  Thanks to Steve Pickel for the attached pictures which include the children’s session with Coleen Derr and a general session in the sanctuary.

We used Sunday as a travel day to Indiana for a Tuesday meeting with The Gathering ’11 Advisory Council.  We traveled north of Indy to spend some time in Marion visiting our friends Aron and Cheryl Willis, Joan’s uncle John Harris, and taking a drive around the exploding IWU campus.  On Monday, we were able to spend the day with our daughter and her family who drove down from Michigan.

The meeting with the Council at International Center focused on the schedule, topics for seminars and how we can fulfill the purpose for this event that will bring all the pastors of The Wesleyan Church together in Jacksonville, Florida, in January 2011.  I am grateful to our SC pastors who, in response to my request, provided valuable input in preparation for the meeting.  Especially moving was a letter that I received from one of our youth pastors.  I posted both the letter and my response on my blog this week.  I would encourage you to check it out.

After our meeting in Indy we traveled to Lexington and enjoyed dinner with Dr. Joe Dongell and Asbury student, Elizabeth Bentley and her husband, Trey.  Trey is from the CenterPoint church in Laurens.  The next morning, I was privileged to meet with five more quality Asbury students, some of whom would be available for pastoral service this year.  We arrived home Wednesday night.  Thursday through Saturday included an LBA meeting, funeral home visitation, funeral and Wesleyan Women Nominating Committee meeting. 

My Sunday morning visit was to the Easley, First Church.  (Joan had been sick during the night and stayed home, with the hope that she would be recuperated and able to make the evening schedule.)  This church has become increasingly outward-focused toward their community.  The service was definitely upbeat with a noticeable emphasis on Scripture and God-focused worship, and I appreciated the lunch and the opportunity to meet and share with the leaders in a training and sharing time following.

A quick trip was made back to TR.  Centerpieces and other items were loaded into the car, and although I had assured Joan that the “show would go on without her”, she was feeling much better and so we headed to Greenville for the Growing Pastors’ Dinner that evening. The attendance at this event was excellent with almost 100 pastors and spouses present.  The program included a video presentation entitled, “Spur Leadership” by Mac Richard, a dinner catered by Mutt’s Barbecue, and Joan and I sharing in separate sessions with the pastor and spouses.  My thanks to Joan for her work in organizing this event and making the arrangements.  The “G1” church and pastor Steve Stanley and Kimi and their family were once again wonderful hosts for the second district event within two weeks.  Thanks also to so many of you who made the clean up go so well.  (Pictures from this event are on the district website.)

I want to again express appreciation to Tony for the recent updates on the website.  We are getting increased activity as a result of the new format.  The posting of Dr. Mitchell’s sermons, sessions from the Pastors’ Gathering and the news updates are adding so much to its usefulness.  Our research has revealed that the second highest link being used is the one for the PNN and since there has been some difficulty with its being accessible at times under the old format, it will now be posted on the front page of the website beginning this week.   By the way, the highest request is for the church listing site.  Just a reminder:  if you are not listed there you are missing out.  There is no cost for you to create your own page or to direct users to your church’s website.

It continues to be a blessing to be on the same team with you, our pastors and lay persons, as we live out our commitment to the “transformation of SC and the world through resourcing pastors and multiplying churches”.  Your continued prayers for us and our family are greatly appreciated.

Believing in each other,

Pastor Buddy       

 

News and Information

 

Womens’ Retreat                        March 27-29, 2009            Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

Mens’ Retreat                              April 24-26, 2009                Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

 

Summer Schedule:

            Jr. High Camp                         June 15-19

            Sr. High Camp                        June 22-26

            Kids’ Kamp #1                         July 5-9

            District Missions Rally             July 12

            District Conference                 July 13

            Family Camp                          July 14-19

            Kids Kamp #2                         July 26-30

 

Open Churches:

Golden Grove

 

Items Needed for Healing Waters Wesleyan Church (Beaufort)

The new church at Beaufort, Healing Waters, has moved into the new facility.  They are in need of the items listed below.  Please let the district office know of items you may have so that we can coordinate this project.  There are some items already on hand here at TR and we would like to be able to deliver these and other items you can provide within the next two weeks.  Let’s consider this a “church warming” from the district.  Items already donated have been removed from the list.  Of course, financial donations toward this effort would be welcome as well. We are also in need of a truck that could be used for this.  If you have one, or know of someone who could help with this, please let us know.  We will need to make this delivery no later than the first week in April.  

  • Communion Table
  • Communion Set
  • Stacking Chairs (100)
  • PA Sound System
  • Bibles                                    
  • Multi-media Projector and Screen 
  • Hymnals
  • 2 Flag poles and a Christian Flag
  • Pre-School Furniture
  • Furniture for Sunday School Classes
  • Directory Board for outside

Martha Marie Smith is the state coordinator for the following ministry and we share the information with you:

Caroline’s Promise exists to reclaim hope for orphans by

  • Meeting the physical and spiritual needs of children throughout the world with the hope of those children accepting Christ as their Savior.
  • Providing guidance & assistance to Christian couples living in North Carolina and South Carolina during the adoption process by offering education, resources, financial assistance & prayer support.
  • Educating the community about adoption and the needs of orphans.

There are plenty of opportunities for volunteers, prayer intercessors, and financial giving in this ministry. I invite you to join me in taking part in this grassroots movement and consider getting involved in the 1st Annual Seeds of Hope Banquet to be held April 14, 2009 at The University Dining Commons on the campus of Southern Wesleyan University in Central, SC.  For more information go to www.carolinespromise4u.org or contact marthamariesmith@carolinespromise.net

 

Quote for the Week:

I was reading that “in most mainline denominations, the percentage of pastors above the age of 55 is 50% and the percentage of pastors between the ages of 25 and 35 is around 5%.”   

 

Humor for the Week: I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll be glad to make an exception.      – Hannah Jones (a Facebook post)


 

 
 
 Buddy Rampey
District Superintendent
South Carolina District – The Wesleyan Church
www.scwesleyan.org

PNN 3.20.09

 
   

Pastor’s News and Notes

March 20, 2009
 
127 Bethany Cove Dr. w Pickens, SC 29671 w Phone: 864.878.3478
 

 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
      for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.
   He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,
      that the blind will see,
   that the oppressed will be set free,
      19 and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come”

                                                                              (Luke 14:18, 19 NLT)

PRAYER FOCUS

 

Church for this week: (3/16/09) Frontline – Jeff and Dana Mahaffey

Church for next week: (3/23/09) Glendale – Frank and Mary Faye Cantrell

Church for the next week: 3/30/09) Glenville – Ralph and Mavis Campbell

 

  • DBA Meeting on March 21
  • Wesleyan Women’s Retreat (March 27-29, Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach, SC)
  • Rev. Wayne Tippey (Retired) had surgery on March 19 during which stents were inserted.  It is hoped that he can go home by the weekend.  Rev. Tippey is the father of Mrs. Dale Link (Cheryl).
  • Rev. Michael Stepp (Carlisle) had major back surgery on March 11 and is recuperating at home.
  • Mrs. Herbert Taylor (Carolyn) is continuing her chemo for cancer.
  • Continue to pray for the physical needs of Rev. Darlene Teague, a situation worsened by a lapse in her insurance coverage.
  • Continue to pray for Mrs. Chet Rowan (Kathy) whose treatment for MS continues.
  • The families of Saul Rodriguez, Jimmy Williams, and Beulah Groves.
  • Brian Hall, son of Richard and Sharon Hall (Eden) who is in Iraq.
  • South Coastal DS Dan Berry and his wife, Shelley   http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danshelleyberry. 

 

We extend our sympathy to the family of Mrs. Lynn Parker, a former pastor’s wife in the South Carolina District, especially remembering her only child, a daughter, Aimee.  The service was held on Wednesday at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley. 

 

What’s Been Happening

I am completing this with my 9-month-old granddaughter, Marlowe, eating some breakfast and “applauding” my efforts as I sit at the dining table.  It is such a delight to have children and grandchildren in the house this weekend.

The last two weeks have been filled with special events and more than the usual amount of travel.  The first of the month brings the ReFocus meetings with the pastors and congregations.  Those who are participating in this resource offered by the district are benefitting tremendously.  We are grateful that we can provide this opportunity for growth and development.

This was followed by a three-day visit in our district by the denomination’s Spiritual Formation team.  A trip to the Myrtle Beach area was very beneficial sf-children-092and well-received and gave opportunity for times of fellowship both there and during the trip coming and going.  Several pastors and some laypersons joined us for a dinner fellowship and sharing on Friday evening.  The SF team visit was capped by the rally at the Greenville, First Church on Saturday. There were 112 registered participants for this time of training, encouragement and inspiration.  Thanks to Steve Pickel for the attached pictures which include the children’s session with Coleen Derr and a general session in the sanctuary.

We used Sunday as a travel day to Indiana for a Tuesday meeting with The Gathering ’11 Advisory Council.  We traveled north of Indy to spend some time in Marion visiting our friends Aron and Cheryl Willis, Joan’s uncle John Harris, and taking a drive around the exploding IWU campus.  On Monday, we were able to spend the day with our daughter and her family who drove down from Michigan.

The meeting with the Council at International Center focused on the schedule, topics for seminars and how we can fulfill the purpose for this event that will bring all the pastors of The Wesleyan Church together in Jacksonville, Florida, in January 2011.  I am grateful to our SC pastors who, in response to my request, provided valuable input in preparation for the meeting.  Especially moving was a letter that I received from one of our youth pastors.  I posted both the letter and my response on my blog this week.  I would encourage you to check it out.

After our meeting in Indy we traveled to Lexington and enjoyed dinner with Dr. Joe Dongell and Asbury student, Elizabeth Bentley and her husband, Trey.  Trey is from the CenterPoint church in Laurens.  The next morning, I was privileged to meet with five more quality Asbury students, some of whom would be available for pastoral service this year.  We arrived home Wednesday night.  Thursday through Saturday included an LBA meeting, funeral home visitation, funeral and Wesleyan Women Nominating Committee meeting. 

My Sunday morning visit was to the Easley, First Church.  (Joan had been sick during the night and stayed home, with the hope that she would be recuperated and able to make the evening schedule.)  This church has become increasingly outward-focused toward their community.  The service was definitely upbeat with a noticeable emphasis on Scripture and God-focused worship, and I appreciated the lunch and the opportunity to meet and share with the leaders in a training and sharing time following.

A quick trip was made back to TR.  Centerpieces and other items were loaded into the car, and although I had assured Joan that the “show would go on without her”, she was feeling much better and so we headed to Greenville for the Growing Pastors’ Dinner that evening. The attendance at this event was excellent with almost 100 pastors and spouses present.  The program included a video presentation entitled, “Spur Leadership” by Mac Richard, a dinner catered by Mutt’s Barbecue, and Joan and I sharing in separate sessions with the pastor and spouses.  My thanks to Joan for her work in organizing this event and making the arrangements.  The “G1” church and pastor Steve Stanley and Kimi and their family were once again wonderful hosts for the second district event within two weeks.  Thanks also to so many of you who made the clean up go so well.  (Pictures from this event are on the district website.)

I want to again express appreciation to Tony for the recent updates on the website.  We are getting increased activity as a result of the new format.  The posting of Dr. Mitchell’s sermons, sessions from the Pastors’ Gathering and the news updates are adding so much to its usefulness.  Our research has revealed that the second highest link being used is the one for the PNN and since there has been some difficulty with its being accessible at times under the old format, it will now be posted on the front page of the website beginning this week.   By the way, the highest request is for the church listing site.  Just a reminder:  if you are not listed there you are missing out.  There is no cost for you to create your own page or to direct users to your church’s website.

It continues to be a blessing to be on the same team with you, our pastors and lay persons, as we live out our commitment to the “transformation of SC and the world through resourcing pastors and multiplying churches”.  Your continued prayers for us and our family are greatly appreciated.

Believing in each other,

Pastor Buddy       

 

News and Information

 

Womens’ Retreat                        March 27-29, 2009            Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

Mens’ Retreat                              April 24-26, 2009                Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

 

Summer Schedule:

            Jr. High Camp                         June 15-19

            Sr. High Camp                        June 22-26

            Kids’ Kamp #1                         July 5-9

            District Missions Rally             July 12

            District Conference                 July 13

            Family Camp                          July 14-19

            Kids Kamp #2                         July 26-30

 

Open Churches:

Golden Grove

 

Items Needed for Healing Waters Wesleyan Church (Beaufort)

The new church at Beaufort, Healing Waters, has moved into the new facility.  They are in need of the items listed below.  Please let the district office know of items you may have so that we can coordinate this project.  There are some items already on hand here at TR and we would like to be able to deliver these and other items you can provide within the next two weeks.  Let’s consider this a “church warming” from the district.  Items already donated have been removed from the list.  Of course, financial donations toward this effort would be welcome as well. We are also in need of a truck that could be used for this.  If you have one, or know of someone who could help with this, please let us know.  We will need to make this delivery no later than the first week in April.  

  • Communion Table
  • Communion Set
  • Stacking Chairs (100)
  • PA Sound System
  • Bibles                                    
  • Multi-media Projector and Screen 
  • Hymnals
  • 2 Flag poles and a Christian Flag
  • Pre-School Furniture
  • Furniture for Sunday School Classes
  • Directory Board for outside

Martha Marie Smith is the state coordinator for the following ministry and we share the information with you:

Caroline’s Promise exists to reclaim hope for orphans by

  • Meeting the physical and spiritual needs of children throughout the world with the hope of those children accepting Christ as their Savior.
  • Providing guidance & assistance to Christian couples living in North Carolina and South Carolina during the adoption process by offering education, resources, financial assistance & prayer support.
  • Educating the community about adoption and the needs of orphans.

There are plenty of opportunities for volunteers, prayer intercessors, and financial giving in this ministry. I invite you to join me in taking part in this grassroots movement and consider getting involved in the 1st Annual Seeds of Hope Banquet to be held April 14, 2009 at The University Dining Commons on the campus of Southern Wesleyan University in Central, SC.  For more information go to www.carolinespromise4u.org or contact marthamariesmith@carolinespromise.net

 

Quote for the Week:

I was reading that “in most mainline denominations, the percentage of pastors above the age of 55 is 50% and the percentage of pastors between the ages of 25 and 35 is around 5%.”   

 

Humor for the Week: I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll be glad to make an exception.      – Hannah Jones (a Facebook post)


 

 
 
 Buddy Rampey
District Superintendent
South Carolina District – The Wesleyan Church
www.scwesleyan.org

PNN 3.20.09

 
   

Pastor’s News and Notes

March 20, 2009
 
127 Bethany Cove Dr. w Pickens, SC 29671 w Phone: 864.878.3478
 

 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
      for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.
   He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released,
      that the blind will see,
   that the oppressed will be set free,
      19 and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come”

                                                                              (Luke 14:18, 19 NLT)

PRAYER FOCUS

 

Church for this week: (3/16/09) Frontline – Jeff and Dana Mahaffey

Church for next week: (3/23/09) Glendale – Frank and Mary Faye Cantrell

Church for the next week: 3/30/09) Glenville – Ralph and Mavis Campbell

 

  • DBA Meeting on March 21
  • Wesleyan Women’s Retreat (March 27-29, Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach, SC)
  • Rev. Wayne Tippey (Retired) had surgery on March 19 during which stents were inserted.  It is hoped that he can go home by the weekend.  Rev. Tippey is the father of Mrs. Dale Link (Cheryl).
  • Rev. Michael Stepp (Carlisle) had major back surgery on March 11 and is recuperating at home.
  • Mrs. Herbert Taylor (Carolyn) is continuing her chemo for cancer.
  • Continue to pray for the physical needs of Rev. Darlene Teague, a situation worsened by a lapse in her insurance coverage.
  • Continue to pray for Mrs. Chet Rowan (Kathy) whose treatment for MS continues.
  • The families of Saul Rodriguez, Jimmy Williams, and Beulah Groves.
  • Brian Hall, son of Richard and Sharon Hall (Eden) who is in Iraq.
  • South Coastal DS Dan Berry and his wife, Shelley   http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danshelleyberry. 

 

We extend our sympathy to the family of Mrs. Lynn Parker, a former pastor’s wife in the South Carolina District, especially remembering her only child, a daughter, Aimee.  The service was held on Wednesday at Rock Springs Baptist Church in Easley. 

 

What’s Been Happening

I am completing this with my 9-month-old granddaughter, Marlowe, eating some breakfast and “applauding” my efforts as I sit at the dining table.  It is such a delight to have children and grandchildren in the house this weekend.

The last two weeks have been filled with special events and more than the usual amount of travel.  The first of the month brings the ReFocus meetings with the pastors and congregations.  Those who are participating in this resource offered by the district are benefitting tremendously.  We are grateful that we can provide this opportunity for growth and development.

This was followed by a three-day visit in our district by the denomination’s Spiritual Formation team.  A trip to the Myrtle Beach area was very beneficial sf-children-092and well-received and gave opportunity for times of fellowship both there and during the trip coming and going.  Several pastors and some laypersons joined us for a dinner fellowship and sharing on Friday evening.  The SF team visit was capped by the rally at the Greenville, First Church on Saturday. There were 112 registered participants for this time of training, encouragement and inspiration.  Thanks to Steve Pickel for the attached pictures which include the children’s session with Coleen Derr and a general session in the sanctuary.

We used Sunday as a travel day to Indiana for a Tuesday meeting with The Gathering ’11 Advisory Council.  We traveled north of Indy to spend some time in Marion visiting our friends Aron and Cheryl Willis, Joan’s uncle John Harris, and taking a drive around the exploding IWU campus.  On Monday, we were able to spend the day with our daughter and her family who drove down from Michigan.

The meeting with the Council at International Center focused on the schedule, topics for seminars and how we can fulfill the purpose for this event that will bring all the pastors of The Wesleyan Church together in Jacksonville, Florida, in January 2011.  I am grateful to our SC pastors who, in response to my request, provided valuable input in preparation for the meeting.  Especially moving was a letter that I received from one of our youth pastors.  I posted both the letter and my response on my blog this week.  I would encourage you to check it out.

After our meeting in Indy we traveled to Lexington and enjoyed dinner with Dr. Joe Dongell and Asbury student, Elizabeth Bentley and her husband, Trey.  Trey is from the CenterPoint church in Laurens.  The next morning, I was privileged to meet with five more quality Asbury students, some of whom would be available for pastoral service this year.  We arrived home Wednesday night.  Thursday through Saturday included an LBA meeting, funeral home visitation, funeral and Wesleyan Women Nominating Committee meeting. 

My Sunday morning visit was to the Easley, First Church.  (Joan had been sick during the night and stayed home, with the hope that she would be recuperated and able to make the evening schedule.)  This church has become increasingly outward-focused toward their community.  The service was definitely upbeat with a noticeable emphasis on Scripture and God-focused worship, and I appreciated the lunch and the opportunity to meet and share with the leaders in a training and sharing time following.

A quick trip was made back to TR.  Centerpieces and other items were loaded into the car, and although I had assured Joan that the “show would go on without her”, she was feeling much better and so we headed to Greenville for the Growing Pastors’ Dinner that evening. The attendance at this event was excellent with almost 100 pastors and spouses present.  The program included a video presentation entitled, “Spur Leadership” by Mac Richard, a dinner catered by Mutt’s Barbecue, and Joan and I sharing in separate sessions with the pastor and spouses.  My thanks to Joan for her work in organizing this event and making the arrangements.  The “G1” church and pastor Steve Stanley and Kimi and their family were once again wonderful hosts for the second district event within two weeks.  Thanks also to so many of you who made the clean up go so well.  (Pictures from this event are on the district website.)

I want to again express appreciation to Tony for the recent updates on the website.  We are getting increased activity as a result of the new format.  The posting of Dr. Mitchell’s sermons, sessions from the Pastors’ Gathering and the news updates are adding so much to its usefulness.  Our research has revealed that the second highest link being used is the one for the PNN and since there has been some difficulty with its being accessible at times under the old format, it will now be posted on the front page of the website beginning this week.   By the way, the highest request is for the church listing site.  Just a reminder:  if you are not listed there you are missing out.  There is no cost for you to create your own page or to direct users to your church’s website.

It continues to be a blessing to be on the same team with you, our pastors and lay persons, as we live out our commitment to the “transformation of SC and the world through resourcing pastors and multiplying churches”.  Your continued prayers for us and our family are greatly appreciated.

Believing in each other,

Pastor Buddy       

 

News and Information

 

Womens’ Retreat                        March 27-29, 2009            Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

Mens’ Retreat                              April 24-26, 2009                Springmaid Resort, Myrtle Beach

 

Summer Schedule:

            Jr. High Camp                         June 15-19

            Sr. High Camp                        June 22-26

            Kids’ Kamp #1                         July 5-9

            District Missions Rally             July 12

            District Conference                 July 13

            Family Camp                          July 14-19

            Kids Kamp #2                         July 26-30

 

Open Churches:

Golden Grove

 

Items Needed for Healing Waters Wesleyan Church (Beaufort)

The new church at Beaufort, Healing Waters, has moved into the new facility.  They are in need of the items listed below.  Please let the district office know of items you may have so that we can coordinate this project.  There are some items already on hand here at TR and we would like to be able to deliver these and other items you can provide within the next two weeks.  Let’s consider this a “church warming” from the district.  Items already donated have been removed from the list.  Of course, financial donations toward this effort would be welcome as well. We are also in need of a truck that could be used for this.  If you have one, or know of someone who could help with this, please let us know.  We will need to make this delivery no later than the first week in April.  

  • Communion Table
  • Communion Set
  • Stacking Chairs (100)
  • PA Sound System
  • Bibles                                    
  • Multi-media Projector and Screen 
  • Hymnals
  • 2 Flag poles and a Christian Flag
  • Pre-School Furniture
  • Furniture for Sunday School Classes
  • Directory Board for outside

Martha Marie Smith is the state coordinator for the following ministry and we share the information with you:

Caroline’s Promise exists to reclaim hope for orphans by

  • Meeting the physical and spiritual needs of children throughout the world with the hope of those children accepting Christ as their Savior.
  • Providing guidance & assistance to Christian couples living in North Carolina and South Carolina during the adoption process by offering education, resources, financial assistance & prayer support.
  • Educating the community about adoption and the needs of orphans.

There are plenty of opportunities for volunteers, prayer intercessors, and financial giving in this ministry. I invite you to join me in taking part in this grassroots movement and consider getting involved in the 1st Annual Seeds of Hope Banquet to be held April 14, 2009 at The University Dining Commons on the campus of Southern Wesleyan University in Central, SC.  For more information go to www.carolinespromise4u.org or contact marthamariesmith@carolinespromise.net

 

Quote for the Week:

I was reading that “in most mainline denominations, the percentage of pastors above the age of 55 is 50% and the percentage of pastors between the ages of 25 and 35 is around 5%.”   

 

Humor for the Week: I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll be glad to make an exception.      – Hannah Jones (a Facebook post)


 

 
 
 Buddy Rampey
District Superintendent
South Carolina District – The Wesleyan Church
www.scwesleyan.org
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