The Spire

December 8, 2014

Volume 43, Issue 32

Hanging of the Greens, The Tasting Party & Special Music featuring
Franklin Willis, the Orchestra & Woodmonts Chancel Choir

Child Dedications - December 7th

9:30 a.m. - Harper Jolie Hysmith with parents

Joel & Lindsey Hysmith & Clay Stauffer

In This Issue
Articles and Columns:
Clay Stauffer & Farrell Mason 2
Justin Gung
3
Andra Moran & Carla Schooler 4
...
5
Walk Thru Bethlehem
Woodmont Youth
6
Woodmont Kids
7
In & Around Woodmont & News 8
Bulletin Board
11
Upholding Our Church, back cover

11:00 a.m. - Mary Randall Drinnon with

parents Randy & Jennifer Drinnon

Core Values

December 5th, Woodmonts Christmas Concert hosted by The Bridge

Mission Statement
Growing Disciples of Christ by
Seeking God,
Sharing Love
and Serving Others.

eludehcS tuO kcehC emutsoC BTW

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THIS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14th 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm

13 rebmeceD , yadseu T yb denruter eb ot era semutsoC

Those who attend this weekends 11:00a.m. Worship Service are invited to Walk Thru Bethlehem before it opens to the public!

A Great Woodmont Tradition

We have talked a lot this year about what it means
to be a missional church a community of believers
that have been sent into the world to spread the love of
Christ. Being a missional church is very different from
just going to church. It involves recognizing that the
church is not simply a place or building but a people
called to serve in the world and to embody the love of
Christ. The church is not just a place where we come to
consume but its who we are. Its what we do. Its how
we live. This Sunday December 14th, we will continue an incredible Woodmont
tradition that is now over 30 year old Walk Thru Bethlehem.

Walk Thru Bethlehem is a missional way for us to spread the true joy
and meaning of Christmas to a world that often forgets what this season is all
about. Walk Thru Bethlehem has its roots back in 1983 when a young girl named
Elizabeth Ann Keith (daughter of Mary Keith, sister of George Keith) had a dream

of putting on a live nativity scene at South Hall. Tragically, she was killed in a
car accident in 1988, but her legacy has lived on as that live nativity scene has
grown and grown over the years to become one of Nashvilles great Christmas
traditions. On Sunday, we will welcome thousands to Bethlehem and help them
experience what it might have been like centuries ago when Christ was born in a
stable because there was no room for him in the inn. Sadly, there are still many
who have no room in their hearts for Christ at Christmas. It is our goal year after
year to remind our community of what Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus
Christ, God coming into the world in human form. Walk Thru Bethlehem takes a
lot of work and planning year after year, but it is one of the best things we do as a
church. Thanks to all those who work so hard to make this possible. Never forget
how many lives we are able to touch on this one special day.Heres to another great
year of experiencing the Christmas miracle that fills our hearts with peace and joy!
Yours in Christ,

Theres Something About Mary

The curtain opens to reveal a young maiden
dressed in a crisp white shift with a pale blue head covering.
Her cheeks are flushed, her eyes held in rapt attention at
the winged figure standing before her. The audience holds
its breath. They are witnessing the great turning point in
the saga of salvation. A young boy pinches himself in the
front row and turns to his sister, Are you seeing what Im
seeing? Believing what Im believing?

Heavens finest, the Angel Gabriel, formally addresses the maiden as,
The Favored One, and announces that she has been chosen to
carry Gods son. The plucky young girl does not demure, but
instead challenges the Archangel, How can this be? You can
see that Gabriel is impressed by her inner strength. His voice
is tender, yet assertive, Nothing will be impossible with God.
Mary does not blink. Her soul chooses to believe. Here I am,
Lord. The crowd erupts, Hail Mary, Full of Grace. The Lord is
With You.

You have to love that God chose a woman to be
the heroine of his Christmas love story! And it all began with
a simple Yes. Theres just something about Mary that makes
me want to say yes too!I often wonder if my soul doesnt lean
on the side of the Catholics. Who doesnt crave to find refuge
in a mothers unconditional love? The debate will continue
regarding the truth of the Virgin Birth, the Immaculate
Conception, the Assumption, and Marian Apparitions. For me, true faith is not
afraid to walk hand in hand with the Mystery.

Again, I confess, Theres something about Mary. Maybe its the
profundity of a mothers love that resonates deep within me. The idea that ninemonths pregnant she would ride on the back of a donkey a great distance and
then endure the birth on a hay-dusted floor full of swine. Next, the new mother
is forced to flee her home and family for a foreign land to protect her babys life.
For years it was Mary who witnessed her son transform before her eyes, babe
to savior. It was also the Madonna who wept as the worst of humanity tore her

son down---blood, bone, and dignity.We know from the Book of Acts that Mary
continued on. Ask any mother who has lost a child the kind of courage that it
takes to live on in their absence. Mary was resourceful, resilient, and faithful even
when it appeared she had lost everything. Shes a saint because she defied the
world and proved the Divine-worth of her soul.

The Catholic Catechism makes it very clear that Mary is not to be
worshiped. Although crowned Queen of the Heavens, Mary will always be the
handmaid, a flesh and bone servant of God, like you and me. And yet she is
more than that. To be the mother of God required crazy courage, reckless trust,
insatiable love, and a mothers sacred heart. There is a reason
God chose Mary to be the heroine of the Christmas story. If
there was ever a soul that could teach us how to live in hope, it
is Mary.
We can look to Mary for comfort, inspiration, guidance,
and an empathetic ear. Christians for over two millennium
have sought her protection and consolation. But we can also
follow her lead and say yes. Most of us, men and women, would
consider it ludicrous, near impossible, only by a miracle, that
God would choose one of us lowly to birth something holy into
the world. But then why do we celebrate Christmas every year?
Saint Augustine said, A birth is always happening. Thats
the miracle of Christmas!
The curtain rises again. This time it is you and me on the
stage. The Angel Gabriel calls to us, Gods Favored Ones, and
then announces that God has chosen us, you and me, to birth light, hope, justice,
forgiveness, and most importantly, love into the world this Christmas. It wont
be easy, laments the Angel. Theres hardly any room in the inn of skepticism
and self-absorption. Your palms begin to sweat. In the corner of your eye you
notice the gilt star cresting the dark night sky. The Angel whispers to your soul,
Do not be afraid. For nothing is impossible with God.
Welcome to Christmas!
Love,
Farrell

pg 2

Who Knew the Wise Men Drove Food Trucks?

For several years, Ive enjoyed playing the role of a Wise allowed to cast a vote and the charity that receives the most votes will receive all
Man in Walk Thru Bethlehem. Standing aside folks like John of the money donated by the food trucks. Thats not just pretty cool. Thats really
Gibson and Tate Rich, Ive donned a robe and met children cool.
and adults alike at the stable. Of course, the Wise Men are In the end, when its all said and done, several things will happen:
famous because they came from afar and bore gifts for the
The food trucks will do a very good day of business, providing lunch for
Christ child. To this day, they are models of both humility
hundreds of shoppers in Green Hills.
and generosity: humility in bowing before the child and
Hundreds of toys will be collected for the Last Minute Toy Store and local
generosity in offering their gifts in loyalty and love.
children who may not otherwise receive a Christmas present will receive one.
Children across the globe will be given tangible
This year, a group of extremely wise
business owners have formed a special partnership
On Saturday, December 20, some of help and real hope: the hope of the gospel.
with Woodmont Christian Church to spread the spirit Nashvilles best-loved food trucks will be Every Woodmont child will have the awesome
chance to help another child somewhere in the world.
of Christmas throughout the world. On Saturday,
December 20, some of Nashvilles best-loved food stationed in the Woodmonts parking lot. In addition, children will have the feeling that
their voices really do matter in a world that often
trucks will be stationed in the church parking lot.
seems so adult, i.e. the world of the church.
Theyll serve lunch to hungry shoppers or anyone else wanting a hot, delicious
Parents and children will sit around kitchen tables and living rooms and talk
meal. Theyll collect toys for the Last Minute Toy Store, a local charity that makes
about those in need, what can be done for them, and why we should help.
sure that children in need get a bit of Christmas joy. And those who donate toys
One charity will receive a wonderful, unexpected Christmas present.
will be given a discount on their meal. Sounds pretty cool, huh?
All three charities will enjoy great publicity and increased awareness of their
Well, just wait, cause it gets even better.
work in the world.
The food trucks are donating a generous percentage of their sales to
God will be glorified and his kingdom will be seen upon the earth.
a ministry of the churchs choosing. Let me repeat: Theyre donating this money
Friends, this December, lets prove that you dont have to don a robe
not to the church, but a ministry of the churchs choosing. And exactly who in
the church will decide who receives this donation? The staff? The elders? The in order to be wise. The children of the church will be wise boys and girls as they
deacons? No. The children. Thats right. The children of the church will decide who direct gifts to other children across the world; local shoppers will be wise in
giving toys to needy children within our own fair city; and food truck operators
receives this wonderful Christmas present.
will be wise in making a generous donation to a good and godly cause.
How?
Who knew the Wise Men drove food trucks?
A ballot is posted on the Woodmont Kids website - click below to
vote or visit http://tiny.cc/FoodTrucksWCC. The ballot contains three separate
charities. In their own unique way, these charities minister to children across the
world and provide them with the hope of the gospel. Every child of the church is

CLICK HERE TO VOTE OR VISIT

CLICK
HERE TO VOTE!
www.WoodmontKids.com

page
pg 33

Twenty five years ago today, I was riding the train

home from my school in Frankfurt, Germany. I sat next
to my sister, joking with several of my classmates who
lived in our neighborhood.
At the Mainkur Bahnhof stop, a kid from our
school jumped on the train shouting, Havent you
heard? Theyve done it! The wall is down! The wall has
fallen!
He was, of course, referring to the Berlin Wall-the Iron Curtain which seperated Western Europe
from the Eastern Bloc. Many families had been
divided with its construction in 1961. Wed been on class trips to see it, and
my own family had toured the Berlin Wall Museum which had exhibits of brave
escapes from the east side of the Berlin Wall. On the west side, the Wall was
covered with bright graffiti, some of it beautiful, some of it crass. You could
shop souvenir stands and find postcards with Mauer Kunst (wall art), and
buy tshirts silkscreened with an image of the sign in front of the wall that read
End of the British Sector. You are forbidden to proceed beyond this point. It
was a bustling place. Tourists came from all over the world to see the Berlin
Wall, to have lunch in its shadow, buy some trinkets, learn about its history.
On the east side, there was nothing.
Miles of flat, grey concrete were lined with East German soldiers, governed
by the Soviets. They wore drab, stiff uniforms and scowls, and carried machine guns.
How incredible it must have been for them to be just feet away from freedom; to see
the excess and commercialism just on the other side of the wall as they patroled.
When that kid jumped onto our train hollering about the wall falling,
none of us believed him. It seemed impossible. There had been division for
nearly 30 years, and although politicians and social justice advocates had worked
quietly in the background for much of that time, Germany had accepted that the
Berlin Wall was just one of those things that was a fact of life.
Earlier that same year, my father sat across from a young woman on
a train. As the conductor came by gathering tickets, he informed her that her
ticket required a zuschlag-- an extra fee. She handed him the money, and as
he walked away, she began to cry softly. My father asked her what was wrong.
It turned out she was an East German citizen who was on a travel pass to visit
her family in the West. To insure that she would return, she was not allowed to
bring her young daughters or husband on her trip to visit her aunt and uncle in
the west. She was only allowed 20 Deutsche Mark to travel with, and most of the
money was now in the train conductors pocket.
Over the next few hours on the train, Geoff Moran and Martina Lange
struck up a friendship, and several months later, our family was invited to visit the
Lange family in East Germany. My dad was able to get special military clearance for us
to cross the border only because he was an officer and a chaplain. When he applied for
a pass, his Army colleagues were confused: Why would you want to go there?

We piled into the family station wagon with suitcases packed with
some gifts for the Langes. The Soviet guards were far from friendly as they
searched our car. One of them suggested a bribe to my father. He declined. One
false move, one mistake, and we would have all been in a lot of trouble.
Everything in the East was grey. The buildings were dirty, the streets were
bare. All of the cars were the same. Trabants. Drab little cars that were made of a
reinforced cotton resin. Can you imagine a car without a metal body? There were no
billboards, no advertisements in shop windows, everything was dusty and plain.
When we arrived at the Langes home, a modest apartment building,
their little girls came running down the stairs to meet us. Mama! Guck! Ist ja ein
Luxus-wagon! The littlest girl was pointing at our station wagon, Mama, Look!
Its a limousine. My sister and I stared at each other, amazed and embarrassed.
We had a wonderful visit with the Lange family. They shared all they
had with us, including a whole pile of jokes about East Germany. The jokes were
funny, but tinged with sadness:
How can you use a banana as a compass?
Place a banana on the Berlin Wall. East is where a bite has been taken out of it.
It was only about six months after our family trip to visit the Langes
that I sat on that train coming home from school. We all teased the boy who
insisted the wall had fallen. No one believed him.
My sister and I walked home from the train stop and found my mother
sitting in front of the television watching ARD, the German news channel. She
had tears running down her face.
It was true.
All night, we watched celebrations on tv: people climbing over The
Wall, running across the border with suitcases, people crying, laughing, dancing.
The next morning at school, there were about 15 new kids in our class. Their
clothes were nothing like ours, and they were visibly uncomfortable in our bright
classroom, surrounded by cheerful backpacks and pockets full of candy, pencils
and cartoon character shaped erasers.
The Wall was taking a beating. People on both sides were attacking
it with everything from chisels to sledgehammers, pounding the division into
souvenirs. Never again. We heard these words over and over.
My youth group from church traveled to Berlin, each of us with a hammer
in our suitcase. We beat out our own piece from the Wall. Mine sits on my desk now.
The media began reporting about the Mauerspechte-- the Wall
Woodpeckers.
Maybe this is how we are to deal with division.
We chip away at it until it can no longer stand.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is choosing

gifts. I tried to pay attention to small details about
my friends and family throughout the year so that I
could surprise them with something unexpected. I
love it! However, there are always those people for
whom it is hard to buy. My best friend of 15 years is
one of those people. Weve been friends for so long
now that were practically sisters and I have given
her every little personal gift imaginable. But a funny
thing happened this year; we bought each other very
similar gifts. I know this already because its the type
of gift that requires reserving a spot on your calendar.
Life is busy and sometimes we dont get as much extra time as we did as young
women and college roommates. So we are giving each other the chance to share
an experience.

I think this is one of the reasons the old hymn, In the Bleak Midwinter,
has become one of my favorites over the past few years. The poet, Christinia
Rossetti, understood this desire to give the perfect gift. She ponders what she
may have given the infant king as a shepherd or a wise man but in the end she
brought all she had to give, her heart.
In this season of hustle and bustle I remind you to remember that giving
of YOU may be the best of all. Culture has made this season one full of consumerism
and materialism but sometimes the greatest gift you can give someone is the
precious gift of time. Looking for the perfect gift? What can you give?
Give your heart.

- Andra Moran

page
pg 44

- Carla

WTB Costume Check Out Schedule

Dates/Times at the Mansion:

Read Thru Bethlehem Before You Walk

Wednesday, November 20: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Walk Thru Bethlehem is an event that leaves visitors asking questions about every facet of life in
Sunday,
24:clothing,
9:00
a.m. religious
- Noonpractices, animals, political leaders,
BethlehemNovember
including the food,
language,
daily work,December
relationships, etc...
the answers
your questions before visiting by reading
Sunday,
1: Discover
9:00
a.m. -toNoon
Walk
Thru
Bethlehem
s
event
encyclopedia.
It
is
a
collection
of practical information - a small
Wednesday, December 4: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
library that, when Reading Thru Bethlehem before Walking Thru Bethlehem, will enrich your
experience tremendously.
Learn
about Hebrewby
phrases,
Roman Soldiers,
Rag Dolls, Potter
Costumes
are to be
returned
Tuesday,
December
31 sts Shop,
Olive Press, Living Creche, Fish Maker, Basket Shop and so much more!
To access the documents visit Walk-Thru-Bethlehem.com/page/volunteer-resources-shop.
Look for the list of shops and resources on the webpage and click the links - each one is a download-able pdf.

See you in Bethlehem!

Setting Up an Entire City in a Few Days? Its Not Too Late to Help Out with WTB!
SPECIFIC NEEDS:
Meal Provided During Set-Up and Tear Down on Monday, Dec. 15th: Lunch for 25+
Snacks - For during set-up and tear down (Dec. 10th-16th)
If you are interested in helping out with the above, please contact Pam Hardin atpamhardin92@gmail.com or (615) 641-2287.
Want to Volunteer This Week? Just Come By the Mansion at Woodmont - Theres Something for Everyone!
We need help with light organization and lifting to the heavy stuff - building shops, walls and, well, Bethlehem!
Between 8:30 am until about 6:00 pm FEEL FREE to come by and let Sara or Rebecca know youre there - thank you!
Already Signed Up for WTB? Please Double Check Your Assignment Online!
If you are a volunteer for WTB please check your assignment by visiting walk-thru-bethlehem.com/page/volunteer-schedule. If you are helping
with set-up or tear down, please check the schedule by visiting walk-thru-bethlehem.com/page/volunteer-schedule-setupteardown.
If your role/time/place is incorrect, please contact Steve Smith at steve@sska.com or 615-414-5899.
Last Costume Check Out Date/Time at the top floor of the Mansion is Dec. 10th, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
WTB Costume Returns
Costumes should be returned clean and on hangers with head ties in the provide bag.
Costumes are to be checked back in on one of the following dates:
Dec. 21 from 9-12 Jan. 4 from 9-12 Jan.7 from 5-7 Jan. 11 from 9-12
Costumes are brought back to the mansion at the bottom of the stairs.
They will be checked back in and carried upstairs for you.
If you are unable to make a check in date, place your costume on the rack in the mansion.
Lets make sure all costumes are returned and accounted for this year.
Nominating Committee 2014

In November, the Board approved the members of the Nominating Committee and nominations will be accepted between now and the end of
January. This year, we will be electing one Treasurer, three At-Large Board Members, Five Elders, and Twenty-Five Deacons. Please be giving
your thoughtful consideration to individuals you would like to see serve in these important leadership roles. This is a very important process in
the life of our church and this group has a challenging task ahead. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. There are always many more
candidates than available positions. The members of the 2015 Nominating Committee are:

Karen Conrad
298-3735

Pete Kyne
377-4773

Alan Sowell
373-3417

e: karenconrad@comcast.net
e: pcadhain@comcast.net
e: asowell@howardtatelaw.com

Jonathan Farmer
297-5943

Scott Holley
804-9375

Denise Sesler
480-9085

e: sholley@bassberry.com
e: denisesesler@comcast.net

Jane Clay Meadors

665-2507

e: janemeadors@comcast.net

Jeremiah Weeden-Wright

e: jfarmer@joneshawkinsfarmer.com
206-356-4502 e: jeremiah.weedenwright@gmail.com
Laura Dovan 279-9182 e: laura_dovan@yahoo.com
pg 5

New Addition to the Youth Wing!

Woodmonts Youth Group recently defined their Mission and Vision Statements as well as their Core Values. Each statement and value was defined and mutually
agreed upon by youth group members. These statements and values serve to express the groups purpose and beliefs, and to remind the community of the Christs
love for all people that resides in each one of us. They also reflect and strengthen the Mission, Vision and Values of Woodmont Christian Churchs congregation.
The Mission, Vision and Core Values were installed on the Youth Wing 30 foot wide wall - yes, ON the wall. Please visit the Youth Commons to check out this
permanent and indelible addition.

Exam Study Hall in the Youth Wing December 16-19

Free hot chocolate, snacks, and WiFi! The youth wing will be available from 9am to 5pm on December 16-19 as a quiet place to study for midterm exams.
Feel free to join other students from the youth group as we support each other during this stressful time of year. Whether you are studying in the youth
wing or at home, you will all be in our prayers!

JUBILATION at Hanging of the Greens, 11/30 and The Bridge Christmas Concert, 12/5

pg 6

Who Knew the Wise Men Drove Food Trucks?

For several years, Ive enjoyed playing the role of a Wise allowed to cast a vote and the charity that receives the most votes will receive all
Man in Walk Thru Bethlehem. Standing aside folks like John of the money donated by the food trucks. Thats not just pretty cool. Thats really
Gibson and Tate Rich, Ive donned a robe and met children cool.
and adults alike at the stable. Of course, the Wise Men are In the end, when its all said and done, several things will happen:
famous because they came from afar and bore gifts for the
The food trucks will do a very good day of business, providing lunch for
Christ child. To this day, they are models of both humility
hundreds of shoppers in Green Hills.
and generosity: humility in bowing before the child and
Hundreds of toys will be collected for the Last Minute Toy Store and local
generosity in offering their gifts in loyalty and love.
children who may not otherwise receive a Christmas present will receive one.
Children across 14th
the globeatwill9:30
be given
This year, a group of extremely wise
SUNDAY SCHOOL, December
amtangible
business owners have formed a special partnership
On Saturday, December 20, some of help and real hope: the hope of the gospel.
CLASS foodTEACHERS
awesome
with Woodmont Christian Church to spread the spirit Nashvilles best-loved
trucks will be Every Woodmont child will have theLESSON
chance
to
help
another
child
somewhere
in
the
world.
of Christmas throughout the world. On Saturday,
Claire
Drowota,
Clay and Porter Meadors,
stationed in theStars
Woodmonts
parking
lot.Jane
Sunday,
December
14th

In
addition,
children
will
have
the
feeling
December
20, some of Nashvilles
best-loved food
Athat
Katy and Mike Dieckhaus
their voices really do matter in a world that D
often
trucks will be stationed in the church parking lot.
9:30
a.m.
Children's
Moment
seems so adult, i.e. the world of the church.
Theyll
serve lunch
to hungry
shoppers or anyone
else wanting a hot, delicious
Griffith,
Pandas Becky
Parents and
childrenChristi
will sit Williams
around kitchen tables and living rooms andVtalk
meal. Theyll collect toys for the Last Minute Toy Store, a local charity that makes
9:45
a.m.
Sunday
School
about those in need, what can be done for them, and why we should help.
sure that children in need get a bit of Christmas joy. And those who donate toys
E
Joy
One Jackson,
charity willKim
receive
a wonderful, unexpected Christmas present.
Sheridan
will be given a discount on their meal. Sounds pretty cool, huh?
Frogs
11:00Well,a.m.
Church
All three charities will enjoy great publicity and increased awareness ofNtheir
just wait, Children's
cause it gets even better.
work inWhite,
the world.Heather Glasgow
T
food trucksWTB
are donating a generous percentage of their salesMonkeys
to
Betty
1:00The
p.m.

God
will
be
glorified
and
his
kingdom
will
be
seen
upon
the
earth.
a ministry of the churchs choosing. Let me repeat: Theyre donating this money
Friends, this December, lets prove that you dont have to don a robe
not to the church, but a ministry of the churchs choosing. And exactly who in
in
order
to
be wise. The children of the church will be wise boys and girls as they
theOur
churchChildrens
will decide who
receives this
The&staff?
The elders? The
Ministry
is donation?
Growing
Weve
direct
gifts
to other children across the world; local shoppers will be wise in
deacons? No. The children. Thats right. The children of the church will decide who
Added
a
NEW
Class
Puppies!
giving
toys
to
needy children within our own fair city; and food truck operators
receives this wonderful Christmas present.
Puppies Class
-18
month
olds
through
young
2
s
will
meet
will
be
wise
in
making a generous donation to a good and godly cause.
How?
Who knew the Wise Men drove food trucks?
in RoomA134
3 year
old Pandas
classroom),
ballot(formerly
is posted the
on the
Woodmont
Kids website
- click below to
taught
by Tami
Buchanan, Bonnie Burks,
andcontains
Lucy Meador.
vote or visit
http://tiny.cc/FoodTrucksWCC.
The ballot
three separate
charities.
In their own unique
way, these reach
charitiesout
minister
to children
across the
We
are attempting
to personally
to parents
of all
world and provide them with the hope of the gospel. Every child of the church is

children eligible for this class, but for more information,

please contact Childrens Minister Justin Gung at jgung@
woodmontcc.org or Sarah Drury at 383-6551. The 3 year
olds (Pandas class) is moving across the hall toCLICK
room 131HERE TO VOTE!
- same teachers, same children, just a different room. No
other classes are affected.

pg 7

Visitation Group
Woodmonts Visitation Group meets Monday December 15th at 10:00
a.m. in Room 200. Everyone is invited to join!
Woodmont Member, David Sartor Receives High Honors
Middle Tennessee Composer and Conductor David P. Sartor is one of only
five American composers chosen nationwide as an Honored Artist of The
American Prize. The American Prize competitions are unique in scope
and structure, designed to recognize and reward the best performing
artists, ensembles and composers in the United States. Honored
Artists are individuals who have proven themselves to be musicians of
sustained excellence over a number of seasons as contestants in the
national competitions. In the past three years, Sartors compositions
have earned prizes in the Chamber Music Composition and Choral
Music Composition Divisions, and have also achieved Finalist status
five times in the Orchestral, Band/Wind Ensemble and Chamber Music
Composition Divisions. Congratulations!
Woodmonts Book Club
Gayle Hughes will lead a discussion of Edith Whartons book, ETHAN
FROME, on Tuesday, January 20th at 10:30 in Room 107. However, we
will meet in the Youth Wing at 10:30 on Tuesday, December 16th for our
annual SWEET AND SWAP.
Bring a wrapped book and a plate of goodies. See you on the 16th.

Our 2015 Stewardship Chairs are Thom and Kathy Patten

GETTING THE LOVE YOU WANT COUPLES WEEKEND WORKSHOP

Jan. 16-18, 2015 Presented by Jeannie Ingram, M.A., and Rod Kochtitzky, M.Div.
This is an intensive two-day workshop for married and unmarried couples to rediscover
the joy and spiritual potential of being together while using their relationship for
personal change and growth. The workshop is based on Imago Relationship Therapy
developed by Harville Hendrix, Ph.D., and Helen LaKelley Hunt, authors of Getting the
Love You Want: A Guide for Couples and Marriage Made Simple.
This workshop is especially helpful to couples who...
Need a weekend to focus on their marriage away from all distractions, including home,
family and work, are beginning a relationship they want to last, seek a deeper, richer
relationship with a partner, have experienced conflict and want to understand the
underlying reasons, are in a difficult relationship and want to resolve conflicts, have
considered separation or divorce, and want to decide if the marriage or relationship
can be saved.
Partners will learn:
Why they were attracted to each other, why some of their personal expectations of
marriage are not met, how to identify the true sources of conflict in the relationship,
how to use conflicts as pathways to closeness, healing and growth, how to create
the security and closeness for a lasting marriage, how to break through illusions
and projections, how to end destructive cycles-communicate in constructive ways,
how to manage intense feelings; anger, jealousy and distrust and how to focus on
maintaining love and stability rather than arguing to view their partner with greater
compassion and understanding to regain the joy, fun and closeness in the relationship.
Visit http://jeannieingram.com/ for more information or to REGISTER!

Congratulations to Curt and Grace Johnson on the birth

of their daughter, Margaret Ann Johnson, on November
13th. Proud big sister is Hannah Grace and very proud
grandparents are Pam and Al Richardson.

Thom and Kathy with their sons John and Daniel

The Season of Advent...Please Join Us for These Special Events

Morning Worship ~ December 21st in the Sanctuary
9:30 a.m & 11:00 a.m. Join us for Special Christmas Music
by The Chancel Choir & The Woodmont Consort

Christmas Eve - December 24th, 2014 Worship Services ~ 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
This early family Christmas Eve Service is designed to welcome children of all ages. All the normal signs of young
children are present. Movement, outspoken voices, excitement and enthusiasm can be expected. Included in the service
are carols, scriptures, candlelight, and the telling of the Christmas story, all to help us recall the true reason we celebrate
Christmas. Featured musicians are Catie & Jeremy Pratt & Grace Notes. Traditionally, the children bring, as their gift to
the baby Jesus, a can of food to be donated to the hungry in Nashville.
7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.
Please join us for "Lessons and Carols" at 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.
Gary Musick, Sarah Huffman, the Norris Twins, Liza Musick and Brooke Huffman will be the featured musicians at
7:00 p.m. Our Chancel Choir at 11:00 p.m. will feature Catie Pratt singing "Oh Holy Night" and Shelby Strickland singing
"Carol of the Mother. Both services will conclude with a candlelight communion celebration of the birth of Jesus.
pg 9

New Morning Worship Sermon Series This January

Jesus: His Life, Mission, and Message

Focused on the Gospel of Matthew

Sunday School at Woodmont

Sunday School Classes - 9:30 a.m.

Disciples Class - 9:30 a.m. in Rm 105
This is a lecture and discussion class focused on the Scriptures and how
they speak to our lives today. This class is led by Dr. Roy Stauffer, who has
nearly 40 years of experience in ministry and theology.
Challenge Class - 9:30 am - Rm 200
This adult class discusses contemporary issues from a Christian perspective using a variety of formats including lecture / discussion, small
group discussion, guest speakers, video lectures, and member reports.
Upcoming topics are:
December 21: Discussion of Jesus and Sepphoris, led by Bob Herrick
December 28: New Years Brunch, coordinated by Bob Herrick
Young Adult Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. in the Boardroom
This class offers an open forum for in-depth reading and discussion of
scripture.
Spiritual Journeys Class for Women - 9:30 a.m. in The Bay
This class addresses the practical and spiritual needs of the woman of
2014 in a most unique way. Warm and confidential friendship, fresh
innovative lectures, real life application, retreats, special workshops all
combine to bless and develop the soul for further discipleship.

Sunday School Classes - 11:00 a.m.

Reflections Class - 11:00 a.m. in Rm 200
The Reflections Class is a Bible and issue based class that thrives on
discussion and group participation. Participants explore important
questions of the Christian faith.
Spiritual Journeys Class (co-ed) - 2nd Hour - 11:00 a.m.
This class is a coed confidential group dedicated to sharing its experience, strength, and hope based upon the twelve steps of life in Christ
and spiritual principles for more abundant living.
Pathways Class - 11:00 a.m. in the Boardroom
Throughout the year we will watch video lessons and host speakers who
share their insight and perspective on the challenges facing the modern
Christian family including marriage, prayer, and growing our faith. Come
join us!
Points of View Class - 11:00 a.m. in Room 105
Randy Smith and Beth Patillo are teaching a series of classes on Marcus
Borgs book, The Heart of Christianity: Rediscovering a Life of Faith. It is
a lively, interactive class that will both challenge and affirm your beliefs
in Christianity. All Woodmont members and visitors are welcome.

Wildly Popular Speaker Returns to Woodmont in January

Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, Professor of New Testament and JewishStudies at Vanderbilt will be backagain in January. Dr. Levine has just written a new book
on theParables of Jesus. Woodmont members are invited to attendher lectures at Congregation Micah on January 6 - The Prodigal Son,January 13 The Good Samaritan, and January 20 - TheLaborers in the Vineyard. On Sunday mornings, January 4 and 11, Dr. Levine will bespeaking at Woodmont
at 9:30 am in Room 105. Topics: January 4 - Whats Going On in the Middle East?andJanuary 11 - The Parables of Jesus.

New Classes in 2015 - More Information on Dates. Times and Locations Coming Soon!

Discovering Your Spiritual Type - This class will be led by Allen McDonald and will focus on why you sometimes feel your spiritual needs are being
nourished and why, at other times, you feel empty inside. The class will help you understand your spiritual type and thus how it is nourished.
Understanding the Israel-Palestine Conflict - This class will be led by Michael McRay, Adjunct Professor in Forgiveness and Reconciliation, Restorative
Justice, Israel-Palestine, and International Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University. Mr. McRay received his Masters Degree in Conflict Resolution
from Trinity College in Dublin at Belfast (an interesting place to learn).
Celtic Spirituality - This class will be led by Roy Stauffer and will introduce participants to what is known as Celtic Spirituality. In a time when
dramatic changes are taking place in Western Christianity, this ancient Celtic Spirituality offers a fresh stirring of the Spirit among us and a deeper
understanding of God for us. What did Pelagius and the Celtic Church teach in contrast to Augustine and the Roman Church? Come and find out.
Faith and Film - This class will be led by Clay Stauffer and will look at movies which have Christian and spiritual themes.
pg 10

Opportunities at Woodmont

Prayers for our Church Family

Sunday, December 14th - Third Sunday of Advent

New Concerns:
Walk Thru Bethlehem Sunday
Jean Akers, 891 S. Walnut Street, Apt. 267, Anaheim,CA 92802. Phone : 657-220-4019
9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School
Continuing Concerns:
9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Worship Services (11:00 a.m. attendees go to Barb Vial, sister of Beth Sowell, Colorado
WTB before it opens to the public)

Jan Goans
1:00 p.m.
Walk Thru Bethlehem (DH)
Mary Hofwolt, sister of John Hobby
2, 3, 4, 5 p.m. The Bridge Lessons & Carols (Sanc on the Sara Farrar, Green Hills Rehab
hour)
Donnie Creighton, Stallworth
6:15 p.m.
Hanging of the Greens (Sanc)
Dr. Lindsey Cooper
The Tasting Party
7:30 p.m.
Military:
Monday, December 15th
Jeremy Watson, son-in-law of Doug and Terri King, Middle East
10:00 a.m.
Visitation (200)
Kevin Baird, son of Malcolm and Debbie Baird, Liberia
The Geezers (BR)
4:00 p.m.
Those Serving Abroad:
Tuesday,December 16th
Womens Prayer Group (C/S)
9:00 a.m.
Courtney Valk, Peace Corps, Republic of Georgia
9:45 a.m.
Womens Bible Study - The Psalms (200)
Sympathy To:
10:30 a.m.
Woodmont Book Club (Youth Lounge)
Mike and Deborah Lovett on the death of Mikes mother, Virginia Lovett, on Monday, DeWednesday, December 17th
cember 8th in Brentwood, TN. A memorial service will be held at Mike and Deborahs
6:15 a.m.
Mens Small Group 107)
home on Saturday, December 13th. Virginias ashes will be interred in Austin, TX.
Mens Bible Study (105)
7:00 a.m.
Jean Akers and family on the death of Jeans daughter-in-law, Donna Akers, on Decem
Younger Mens Bible Study (BR)
ber 7th in Chattanooga, TN. Funeral services will be held at Brainerd United Methodist
5:30 p.m.
Grace Notes Kids Choir (Kids Commons)
Church on Tuesday, December 9th in Chattanooga.

JYF Kids Club (Kids Commons)
6:30 p.m.
Choir Practice (Choir Room)
The family and friends of Walter G. Elliott who passed away Saturday, November 29th

Stephen Ministry (107/LIB/CS/YW)
in Nashville.Funeral services were held on Friday, December 5th at Mt. Olivet, Nashville.
Thursday, December 4th Library Workday

The Elders of Woodmont Invite You to Join Them in Prayer for:

Continued prayers for Walk Thru Bethlehem an incredible ministry to our community! The prayer of a righteous person has great
power in its effects (James 5:17).
Societal calm, meaningful dialogue and resolution in Americas continued racial unrest.
High School and College students completing final exams and the teachers grading them!
Those in the Philippines whose homes and lives were ravaged by Typhoon Hagupit may God comfort the bereaved and protect
the emergency workers!

The SeaSon

Advent
of

2014

pg 11

Non Profit Org.

US Postage Paid
Nashville, TN
Permit # 1204

Woodmont Christian Church

3601 Hillsboro Rd. Nashville, TN 37215
www.WoodmontChristian.org

The AdvenT SeASon - SpeciAl evenTS

AT

WoodmonT ThiS Weekend

p.m.

December 31 st

Walk Thru Bethlehem

This Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Those who attend this weekends 11:00 a.m. Worship
Service are invited to Walk Thru Bethlehem
before it opens to the public!

Join us for Special Christmas Music

by The Norris Twins & Emily & Rob Webb

11:00 a.m

The Chancel Choir will perform Bethlehem

by Thom McHugh & Emily & Rob Webb

There will be no 5:15 p.m. Bridge Service this Sunday due to Walk Thru Bethlehem - Instead, visit the
Sanctuary every hour on the hour (2:00, 3:00, 4:00 and 5:00 p.m.) for lessons and carols hosted by The Bridge.

WALK THRU BETHLEHEM SUNDAY

BY OUR PRESENCE AND OUR GIFTS
DEACON SCHEDULE - Dec. 14th
Communion
Prep: Peggy Burrham
Date
Sun. School
Total Atd. Operating
Service
Coordinator:
9:30 - Jonathan Farmer
November 16th 362
798
$30,659
11:00
- George Keith
November 23rd 306
827
$37,023
Video
Camera:
9:30
Nicole Clayton
November 30th 323
838
$22,868
11:00 - Ann Rising
December 7th 364
983
$56,232
9:30 a.m.
11:00 a.m. The Bridge Lessons
WORSHIP SERVICES - Dec. 14th, Third Sunday of Advent
Mike McConnell Cynthia Beck and Carols in the
on the
9:30 and 11:00 a.m.
Terri McConnell Patricia Taylor Sanctuary
hour from
Clay Stauffer, Preaching
David Reynolds Jade Forlidas 2:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m.
Walk Thru Bethlehem Sunday
John Weldon
Mike Wright
Doug Schoerke
Sermon: Christmas Joy
Hope
Walker
Tim
Perry
Stuart Lackey
Scripture: Micah 4:1-4, Luke 2:1-20
Laura Dovan
Nick Forlidas
Jennifer Lackey
Betty McHugh Katherine Hartle David Stewart
NO 5:15 p.m. BRIDGE WORSHIP
Chris Smith Barbara Sullivan
DUE TO WALK THRU BETHLEHEM

ELDERS SERVING - Dec. 14th

9:30 a.m.
Chip Phinizy
and
Wendell Brown
11:00 a.m.
Anne Mitchell
and
Pete Kyne
Pat Malone - Hospital
The Bridge Lessons and Carols
in the Sanctuary on the hour from
2:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m.

Rich Sanderson

WEEKLY PRAYER PARTNER:

Collierville Christian Church

WOODMONT CHRISTIAN CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Clay Stauffer, Senior Minister

Dr. C. Roy Stauffer, Minister of Adult Education & Church Life
Rev. Trey Flowers, Minister of Youth & The Bridge
Rev. Justin Gung, Minister of Children & Congregational Care
Thom Schuyler, Director of College, Young Adults, Missions & Outreach
Farrell Mason, Minister of Family Life & Pastoral Care
Andra Moran & Stephen Daniel King, Creative Directors for The Bridge
Carla CJ Schooler, Minister of Jr. High Youth
Tallu Quinn, Director of TNFP
Michael Graham, Director of Music Ministry
Sarah Huffman, Accompanist
Sara Koppelman, Communications Director
Chris Beck, Finance Manager
Sam Marsh, Property & Housekeeping Manager

Topher Endress, Childrens Ministerial Intern

Mary Clare Pyron, Parish Nurse & Small Groups Coordinator
Rebecca Vaughan, Receptionist
Joe Badawy, Housekeeping
Hannah Ott, Youth Ministerial Intern
Ben Saunders, Youth Ministerial Intern

Martha Duff, Director of Preschool

Linda Whitson, Staff Administrator
Steven Austin, Housekeeping
Shirley Taylor, Housekeeping
Nancy Holmes, Childrens Ministry Assistant