SPECIAL EVENTS

Cockman Family in Concert, November 1, during Worship Service beginning at 10am. Covered dish meal to follow in Fellowship Hall.

Operation Christmas Child. Shoeboxes due November 15th. Information folder in Narthex.

"Country Craft Day," November 7th, 8am to Noon, in Fellowship Hall. 

"Booths" are following:

     Mountain Crafts, Christmas Crafts, Country Cupboard, Attic Treasures, God's Country Books, Country Kids, Country Sweets, Mt. Hebron Biscuits

Calendar for the Event:

     Starting October 25 - Handmade crafts, jams and jellies, Attic Treasures and inspirational books may be taken to Fellowship Hall.

     Wednesday, November 4, 8pm - Set up tables in Fellowship Hall

     Thursday, November 5, 1pm to 5pm AND 7pm to 9pm, Fellowship Hall - Final delivery of ALL handmade crafts, canned goods, Attic Treasures and inspirational books. It will be helpful if Donors will put on their items what they think the prices could be so the info can be used for the final pricing. Also putting on the labels of the canned goods a list of ingredients will be useful for those with allergies.

     Friday, November 6, 1pm to 5pm AND 7pm to 10pm, Fellowship Hall - ALL dessert items should be delivered by 10pm.

     Saturday, November 7, 7:30 am, Fellowship Hall. Workers need to arrive.

     Sunday, November 8, 5pm, Fellowship Hall. Country Craft Day Afterglow. Items left from Saturday will be for sale at same prices. After snacks the donors may take home the items they have made or given. OR items may be left for a community sale or items left may be donated to Shoe Boxes or Library. (Other ideas are welcome.)

Other Events:

November 15 - Veteran's Day Service

November 15 - Collection Day for Operation Christmas Child Shoeboxes

November 24, 7pm - Community Thanksgiving Service

December 5, 5pm, Fellowship Hall - Christmas Party for Bible Classes 1 & 2

December 11, 6pm - S.W.A.T. Christmas Party at Parsonage

     

Events:

• It is busy October with festivals, reunions and especially time for final preparations for the "Country Craft Day" to be held November 7, from 8am to Noon, in Fellowship Hall. Many people are working on crafts at home and have been attending workshops at Church. There are two workshops left and they will be October 6th and October 24th. See calendar for more details. 
• The Local Board of Administration is working hard to make plans for projects and to help with the "Country Craft Day." They have a meeting October 4th following Church. 
• Start shopping for the boxes for Operation Christmas Child which are due November 15th.
• Choir practice is being held after Worship Services from now until performance in December.

Special Note:

Blankets for twin beds and size 5 Pampers are being collected for Hephzibah Children's Home. Also don't forget to save those labels and give to Brenda.

Calendar:

October 4, following Worship - Local Board of Administration meeting

October 6, 6:30pm to 8pm - Workshop in Fellowship Hall. Jeannie is leading the making of ornaments

October 9 to 11 - Camp Wesley REFRESH Weekend for S.W.A.T. Group 

October 10 - Morning Glory Festival in Marion

October 11, 2pm to 4pm, Old Fort Depot - Viola Souther's 95th Birthday Party, Drop in to wish her a very happy year ahead

October 16 to 18 - Gene Moffitt Memorial Camping Trip. See Shea if you plan to attend

October 24, 10am to Noon - Worshop in Fellowship Hall. Taylor and Amy leading the making of mesh wreaths. See one of them to learn what you need to bring

November 1, Worship Service with Cockman Family in Concert. A Covered Dish Meal will follow.

November 7, 8am to Noon, Fellowship Hall - Country Craft Day. All sorts of hand made crafts for sale, as well as home made jams and jellies, etc.. Attic Treasures will be for sale, as well as individual servings of desserts plus whole pies and cakes. Mt. Hebron Biscuits and Gravy will be available for donations. Books and Bibles will be given away. And children can make an ornament while their parents are shopping.

November 15 - Veteran's Day Service

November 15 - Collection Day for Operation Christmas Child 

December 5, 5pm, Fellowship Hall - Bible Class 1 and 2 Christmas Party

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September 14, 2015

Updates on Events

"Country Craft Day" on November 7th is now scheduled to start at 8am and will continue until Noon. It is to be held in Fellowship Hall of the Church. Crafts will be for sale, children can make ornaments, individual desserts will be available for donations, whole desserts will be for sale and "Mt. Hebron Biscuits and Gravy" starting at 8am will be available for donations. 

The next craft workshop for "Country Craft Day" will be September 26, when Jeannie will lead the making of tree ornaments. The last workshop will be October 24, when Taylor and Amy will lead the finishing of mesh wreaths already started and a few new ones will also be made.

Special Event

On September 13th, a number of members attended Sunday Evening Worship with Carter and Faye. There was lots of singing led by Freddie, accompanied by Woody, Wallace and the dulcimer players-Kathleen, Helen, Bob, Ann, and Brenda who led them. There were times of reminiscing about the faithfulness of Carter and Faye to God and Mt. Hebron Wesleyan Church. There was laughter and tears when expressions were given about the acts of kindness and dedication the couple had given. Some of their youth group were there to testify about the impact Carter and Faye made on their lives back in the 1960's. 

Events to Come

September 26 - Christian Music Day at Carowinds (S.W.A.T. Youth to attend)

September 26 - 10am to Noon, Fellowship Hall - Craft workshop

September 26 - 6pm. Gospel Music at Crooked Creek Fire Department. Sandwiches and drinks will be offered. This is not a fundraiser but a time for the community to worship together.

October 3 - Octoberfest, Old Fort

October 3 - Allison Reunion starting at 2pm

October 4, 4:30pm, Fellowship Hall - Local Board of Administration Meeting

October 10 - Mountain Glory Festival, Marion

October 9 - 11 - Camp Wesley REFRESH weekend (S.W.A.T. Youth to attend)

October 16 - 18 - Gene Moffitt Memorial Camping Trip

November 1, 10am, Sanctuary - Cockman Family in Concert with Covered Dish Meal to follow

November 7, 8am to Noon - "Country Craft Day" with Mt. Hebron biscuits and gravy also served

November 8, 6pm - Final sale of crafts and items left may be picked up by those who made them, Snacks or possibly desserts made for "Country Craft Day"

November 15, 10am, Sanctuary - Veteran's Day Service 

September 1, 2015

Events to Come:

Hephzibah Children's Home Needs: Blankets for twin beds and Pampers, Size 5. Take to Church as soon as possible.

S.W.A.T. Yard Sale. Please gather yard sale items. You may take them to the Youth Room, upstairs of Fellowship Hall or contact Becky if you need items picked up. The date is September 12 and the location is to be in front of the closed restaurant on Bat Cave Road near McDonald's. 

"Country Craft Day." Plans are coming along for the November 7th fund raising event. Workshops have been held and a number of items for the sale have been made such as sand dollars made into ornaments; silk scarves have been or are being decorated with colors from fruits, veggies and herbs; mesh wreaths for fall and Christmas; angels of raffia and burlap have been made, stars have been made using music pages and candle holders have been decorated. Workshops coming will be: another one to finish mesh wreaths, to make more mesh ones and to make different ones; cork reindeer ornaments, other ornaments and decorations. If YOU are available we NEED YOU at the workshops. There has been good attendance at previous workshops and the help has been much appreciated. We also need all the crafty and artistic people of church to be working on their own projects to have items ready for the big day. Just a little over two months until then. There was a donation of crocheted items made by someone that attended Mt. Hebron Wesleyan Church when she was younger. She learned about the "Country Craft Day" from Dee mentioning the day to her. Thanks Dee.

The Choir and Special Singers had a meeting with Pastor Todd to set our thoughts towards Christmas music and other music to add to worship services. More details will come.   

Remember: 

Fall is approaching fast. If you have a date that needs to be on the Church Calendar, see Pastor Todd with your dates and details. 

Calendar:

S.W.A.T. Youth meet Sunday evenings at 6:00 and Wednesday evenings at 7:00.

"Unshakeable" Praise Band practice on Sundays at 4:30 and Wednesdays at 5:45

Sunday School is at 9:00am

Sunday Morning Worship is at 10:00am

Sunday evening Bible Study is at 7:00pm

Wednesday evening Bible Study is at 7:00pm

September 12 - S.W.A.T. Yard Sale

September 12, 10am to Noon - Workshop for making cork reindeer ornaments for Country Craft Day

September 26 - S.W.A.T. trip to Carowinds for Christian Music Day

September 26 - 10am to Noon - Workshop for making ornaments for Country Craft Day

October 9 to 11 - Camp Wesley REFRESH Weekend (S.W.A.T.)

November 7, 1:00 to 4:00 - Country Craft Day

November 13 to 15 - Gene Moffitt Memorial Camping Trip

August 11, 2015

Previous Happenings:

Vacation Bible School was a success with Jeannie as the leader. Many volunteers helped including a number of youth. The trip to Australia was enjoyable for all who attended. 

Pastor Todd and Becky have enjoyed wonderful times with their family including a beach trip and times at Lake Lure.

Many members have been out and about this summer. Some went to Canada fishing and also got to see some of God's fantastic scenery.

Ongoing Events:

Sunday Mornings: Sunday School at 9:00; Worship at 10:00; Praise Band (Unshakeable) Practice at 4:30; Evening Worship at 6:00; S. W. A. T. (Seeking Wisdom and Truth) Youth at 6:00

Wednesday Evenings: Praise Band Practice at 5:45; S. W. A. T. at 7:00; Bible Study at 7:00

Greta's Sunday School class on "Why I Still Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist" a book by Dr. Frank Turek.

Collecting of Soup Labels for Hephzibah Children's Home. See Brenda for questions and to give your collections.

Upcoming Events:

Youth Yard Sale and Fundraiser will be coming soon. Clean your closets and garages to help yourselves and the Youth. Items may be brought to the Youth Room, upstairs of Fellowship Hall.

For All Ministry Leaders and Sunday School Teachers - Begin planning now for the Fall through Christmas seasons. Dates are already being filled on the calendar. See Pastor Todd with the dates you need and details of your plans.

"Country Craft Day" is tentatively set to be held in Fellowship Hall on November 7, 1pm to 4pm. This fundraiser for the church is to help with construction projects that the Church is planning to do. You are needed to make crafts and Country Cupboard jellies, jams, pickles, etc.. You are also needed to be in charge of a booth; collect your Attic Treasures and God's Country Books.

August 15, Saturday, 10 to Noon, Fellowship Hall - Country Craft Day Workshop - Dyeing silk scarves

August 15, Saturday - S. W. A. T. Hickory Crawdads Baseball game with Concert to follow

August 16, Sunday, 4:30, Fellowship Hall - Local Board of Administration meeting 

August 21, Friday - S. W. A. T. Camp Out at the Parsonage. New Date. You will need your tents and pillows. Then on Saturday, we will be going to Lake Lure swimming.

August 29, Saturday, 10 to Noon, Fellowship Hall - Country Craft Day Workshop - Completing projects needing glue and scissors

August 30, Sunday, During Morning Worship - Back-to-School Sunday to honor our children, youth and teachers as they prepare to go back to school.

July 16, 2015

Events to Remember:

Vacation Church School is coming Wednesday, July 22, to Friday, July 24th, with Commencement Service on Sunday, July 26. Dinner will be at 6PM with activities following. Bring your children, your neighbors' children, and your grandchildren.

Come Alive @8:55 Sunday School Class study in progress is Dr. Frank Turek's book "Why I Still Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist." See Greta

Soup Labels collecting is an ongoing activity for all to help Hephzibah Children's Home. If there are questions, see Brenda

While you are collecting things, search your closets and cupboards for items for the Youth Yard Sale and Fundraiser. Watch for the date of the event to be announced soon.

S.W.A.T. Summer Activities for Youth:

July 19 - "Unshakeable" leading worship

August 15 - Hickory Crawdads Baseball Game with Concert to follow

August 21 - Camp Out at the Parsonage. The next day will be a trip to Lake Lure to swim. Bring tents, pillows, beach items, and $10.

"Country Craft Day" is coming to Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church. The tentative date is November 7, 1pm to 4pm in Fellowship Hall.

The Booths (tables), displaying crafts and more:

Mountain Crafts - handmade items of any type such as bird houses, kitchen hand towels, quilted items, crocheted items, knitted items, wood items, pottery items, etc.

Christmas Gifts - handmade items with Christmas theme such as ornaments, advent calendars, Christmas tree skirts, decorating items, etc.

Country Cupboard - homemade jellies, jams, pickles, etc.

Attic Treasures - small nice second hand items of glass, china, or wood, small tools, decorating items, etc.

God's Country Books - Bibles, study books, inspirational books (ALL TO BE GIVEN OUT AT NO CHARGE).

Country Sweets - desserts to be served with coffee and tea for a monetary donation.

Country Kids - a place where children could make a Christmas ornament while parents are shopping.

Your help is needed NOW in these ways:

1. Volunteer to be in charge of a booth

2. Volunteer to host a workshop to make items for the sale

3. Make items at home for: Mountain Crafts, Christmas Gifts and Country Cupboard.

4. Collect items for: Attic Treasures, and God's Country Books

5. Help with workshop and advertising expenses by giving a donation if you are unable to participate in workshops or in making items for sale.

To Volunteer or help in any way see or call Ann

Summer is almost here. Gardens are growing. School sessions are winding down. Vacations are being planned. And Camps and Vacation Bible School are coming.

Whatever your plans for the summer hopefully God is in the middle of them. 

For Pastor Todd and the Mt. Hebron Wesleyan youth, the camps coming are in their thoughts. Camp Wesley Summer Youth Camp for 12 to 18 year olds will be June 14 to 20. The cost of all meals, accommodations and recreational activities is $85.00. The Kid's Camp for 7 to 11 year olds will be June 11 to 13 with the cost being $40.00. Camp Wesley for others is June 11 to June 21. The main speaker is Reverend Harold Bumby, pastor of High Point's Providence Wesleyan Church. The Worship leader is Scott Bryson, director of Worship Arts for First Wesleyan Church of Kannapolis. On June 16 the Missionary speaker is Reverend Mike Hofer, pastor of Freedom Hill Church in Charlotte. The Camp has trailer hookups available for those with RV's. Meals are available in the Fellowship Center and is open after the evening services for food and fellowship. For information on accommodations and pricing, contact Trent Patterson at 704-437-3060. 

Other Events:

Vacation Bible School, is scheduled for evenings of June 24th to June 26th and Sunday the 28th. To help or have questions please contact Jeannie. Invite children living near you.

District Conference is being held in Hickory from June 22 to 24th. Pastor Todd and Randy Tipton will represent Mt. Hebron.

Come Alive @8:55 Sunday School Class are working  on a book "Why I Still Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist." This is a new study so see Greta to join.

Start accumulating yard sale items as the Youth will have a Yard Sale coming. You may take your donation of "stuff" to the Youth Room upstairs above Fellowship Hall.

"Team Rylie" shirts are available for $10. Wear one to celebrate Rylie's good news and healing. See Pastor Todd or Becky.

Remember to collect soup labels, etc.for Hephzibah Children's Home. See Brenda to learn what to collect and when she wants to send them.

Notes from Sunday Worship, March 22, 2015:

Worship came in different forms this Sunday morning. The overall theme of Faith came from Him Whom we believe in and Whom we seek. First, Karen gave a testimony on her intentional seeking of her Faith. She stated that she is amazed how much her Faith in Jesus has grown because she is seeking His hope for her. She is hoping she will have Faith that amazes Jesus and that she is hoping God keeps His promises just like found in the Bible. Our hope comes from God. She followed her words with a song "Keep Making Me" with its message of asking God to keep helping us to follow Him. Holly then brought her song "What Faith Can Do" which also fit in with Karen's message of seeking Faith and finding it. Pastor Todd's message also spoke about Miracles that come our way. He presented the song "We Won't Be Shaken." Sometimes Miracles come when it  does not add up that they could happen. It is just not humanly possible for there to be a Miracle. BUT with our trust in God, Miracles can happen if we keep our Faith in God. He will do the impossible. For miracles to come: 1. We need to hear His message. 2. We need to seek Jesus. 3. We have to pray regularly. The morning service closed with many prayers being spoken around the Altar and with hands-on support of loved ones. Faith was exhibited in the outpouring of concern and love.

A Note by this blogger:

Hopefully there will now be regular postings for Mount Hebron Weslyan Church. The writer is now home and hopefully the technology grinch will cooperate in the months to come. Spring is coming, Easter is soon to be here, and God's blessings are all around us. Florida does not have Spring come like it does in the mountains. Here it has been lovely to see the spring flowers, blooming trees and the show of greening on the shrubs and trees. 

Announcements:

Mark and his band of workers have cleaned out trees, etc. along the driveway. We thank them that when we come into the back parking lot and Fellowship Hall there is now a nicer open view. 

Wednesday Night Bible Study is continuing on "Living the Christian Life."  The Book of James provided some insight into living one's faith. This is an ongoing study so please plan to attend.

Come Alive @8:55 Sunday School Class Study of the book, "24/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life" begins March 8th. The book will look at the concept of rest and how we need to reclaim it. See Greta to reserve your book for this class.

There is a new list of labels and lids to collect for Hephzibah Children's Home. On April 12, Brenda will be sending your collected items to the Home. Copies of the list are on the vestibule table.

Ongoing Events:

Sunday Nights: S.W.A.T. Praise Band Practice at 5:00
     6:00 Evening Worship
     6:00 S.W.A.T. Meetings

Wednesday Nights: Praise Band Practice at 5:45
     7:00 Bible Study
     7:00 S.W.A.T. Meetings

Upcoming Calendar:

March 29 - Praise Band singing at Night of Worship at First Baptist in Pleasant Gardens
April 2, 7:00 - Community Easter Service at Old Fort Wesleyan. Rev. Johnny Chastain of Old Fort Free Will Baptist will speak
April 4, 4:00 - S.W.A.T. Scavenger Hunt
April 5, 8:00 - Easter Sunrise Service
     8:30 - Breakfast prepared by the men of the Church. Those wanting Breakfast delivered  should contact Pastor Todd or Mark.
     9:30 - Easter Morning Worship
April 10-12 - Camp Wesley REFRESH Weekend
April 19 - District Superintendent, Rev. Jerry Lumston, will be speaking. The Local Board will meet after the service.
April 26 - Church Elections following Morning Worship
May 3 - The beginning of our Homecoming and Spring Revival. Rev. Terry Ivy has accepted our invitation to be the speaker for both. Following Morning Worship there will be a covered dish dinner.
May 16, 2 to 4 - Baby Shower for the baby boy that Adam and Jada are looking forward to joining their family.
May 24, 6:00 - Special Concert by Mr. Joe Collins, well known and accomplished dulcimer player. Following the service will be snacks and drinks. Please bring what you can to share.
June 14-20 - Camp Wesley Summer Youth Camp

Sermon Notes

Pastor Todd

January 18, 2015

"Christ's Most Bold Statement"

Of all the words found in the Bible, John 14:12 has the most bold words, I believe.

Jesus says," . . . anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works . . ."

Jesus is calling us to believe in the impossible!

The Meaning of John 14:12

In most miracles found in the Bible, there is a Human Element. This is where we come into play!

Two Examples:

Joshua 3:8 - The Priests Stepping into the Jordan River

2 Kings 5 - Naaman Dipping himself in the Jordan River

Two Hindrances to God's Miracles

Skepticism - Miracles are NOT Logical!. See John 14:25

Disappointment - Satan's Greatest Tool! see John 20:30-31

The Biblical Proof of God Working through Man

Peter's Shadow - Acts 5:15

Paul's Touch on Handkerchiefs - Acts 19:12

Are you Ready for God to Touch You and Use you?

Acts 19:19

New Posting, January 26, 2015. This posting  is coming by way of Florida by a  novice on "blogging." First, the Christmas Church Season needs to be mentioned. It started with a wonderful "Hanging of the Greens" lead by Candie. A concert by the Friendship Dulcimer Club was enjoyed as was the delicious food. An inspirational cantata was given by the hard working choir which was lead by Valerie. Though the choir had many obstacles before the performance, the words and music reminded the choir and the congregation of God's faithfulness through His Son, whose birth we celebrate. Merrell was missed but Bob stepped in to complete the task with Jeannie. The children and the youth gave a special drama of Jesus' birth. They did great!! The generosity of many donors and those making crafts for the Special Christmas Offering and Silent Auction has given over $5,800 towards the debt of several upgrading projects in process and ones that are planned. The Sanctuary level bathrooms are almost complete.

The New Year: 2015 started quickly with the Pastoral Vote held January 11. The happy results are that Pastor Todd and Becky will be with us for the coming four years. We pray for blessings upon them as our leaders along with the leadership of the Local Board. For the congregation, we are reminded that it takes all working together to make a church worthy of God's direction and blessings. All Ministries were asked to make plans as quick as possible and put their events on the calendar, outside Pastor Todd's office.

A long time missionary, Reese Hurley, came to visit and gave a wonderful program about his path of doing God's work in many places around the world.

Upcoming Events:

Sundays at 5pm - Praise Band, with a new keyboard a great addition given by an anonymous donor
Sundays at 6pm and Wednesdays at 7pm - S. W. A. T. youth gatherings

February 7, 6pm - Sweetheart Banquet by S. W. A. T. "Dinner and a Movie."
February 15, 22 - Come Alive @8:55 Sunday School Class will have "Devine Devices: Devoting your Devices to God." This class is on technology and applications to God directed lives.
March 8 - Come Alive @8:55 Sunday School Class study of the book "24/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life." The book looks at the concept of rest and how we need to reclaim it.

In April the Spring Revival will be held with Reverend Terry Ivy as the leader.

Back to School and more

 Sunday, August 17, will be a big day for Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church.

• During Worship three students will be promoted to the Youth Group and our students and teachers will be sent back to school with our prayers and hugs. The students will receive a gift to remind them that they are special to us. 
• Immediately following worship those interested in membership are to meet with Pastor Todd. 
• At 4pm a Baptism Service will be held in the creek above Carter and Faye Burgin's home. If you are interested in participating in this meaningful and Blessed event please call Pastor Todd. At 6pm our students and teachers will be honored with homemade ice cream and finger foods. There will be games for all ages. It will be a wonderful evening for students and teachers to remember as they head back to the schoolhouse.

For the Youth:

• S.W.A.T. has meetings at 6pm on Sundays and 7pm on Wednesdays.
• The Praise Band has practice at 5pm on Sundays.
• There is a new Sunday School topic entitled "What We Believe: Back to the Basics." This group is a witness to all of us.

Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church is so Blessed by Jesus to have so many young people finding their way to Him.

For the Adults: 

• "Come Alive at 8:55" class is beginning on a new series "Heaven and the Afterlife." The book being studied by James Garlow, a Wesleyan Pastor, is providing very thought provoking ideas.
• The Wednesday night Bible study on Revelation is another opportunity to dig into God's Word. Pastor Todd is digging deep for us to learn more about this book that can be confusing. Most of Chapter 7 was studied on August 13th and on August 20th we will be finish it and go into Chapter 8. Even if you have not been to any of the sessions you are welcome to start your "dig" as each chapter so far has presented different meanings and thoughts with many more to come with each new chapter.

Looking ahead:

• September 20 is the Christian Music Day at Carowinds. Some of the bands to be there are: "Toby Mac," "Building 429" and "MercyMe." More details will be coming but put this date on your calendar.

submitted by Ann King

Busy Summer Days

The trip to the Jungle was great with a number of children attending Vacation Bible School to learn more about Jesus. The staff did a wonderful job of leading the children along their path to becoming dedicated Christians.

July has been flying by since the busy 4th of July weekend. Hopefully the meaning of the 4th of July came into your thoughts and prayers. We are here in America because others searched for another place to live and endured many hardships to find that place, others decided that this new place to live must be free of tyranny and they placed their lives "on the line" to obtain that freedom. In the years since the 1700's many many others have also placed their lives "on the line" to secure the freedoms we now enjoy every day. May God bless America's freedoms!

In the remaining summer days, many will be traveling or enjoying some days free from a "work" schedule. We need to pray for each other's safety and meaningful relaxation. From the "Leaves of Gold" comes this suggestion:

"Neither clocks nor people are of much use when the springs

that ought to keep them going are neglected."

Keep your Bible handy and give it your daily attention. It will keep you going and make your free moments pleasing to God.

Upcoming Events

On Wednesdays, Pastor Todd continues with the Bible Study on Revelation. Please come even if you have not been at other times. As John Quincy Adams said: The Bible is the book of all others to be read at all ages and in all conditions of human life ..."

If you would like to become a member of Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church please contact Pastor Todd. Baptism service will also be scheduled if you would like to be a part of this Holy experience. Pastor Todd will do this for you so let him know if you would like to participate.

On August 3rd, following Morning Worship, the Church Conference will be held to adopt the Budget for 2014-2015. Your presence will be needed for this important meeting. On the same day the Local Board of Administration will meet at 4pm. If you cannot attend please inform Pastor Todd.

"Come Alive at 8:55" class, led by Greta Fletcher, is starting a new study series at Sunday School time. The new study is on James Garlow's book "Heaven and the Afterlife". On July 27th Chapter One was used at an introduction to the study so it is not too late to join the class at 8:55 on Sunday mornings.

The youth group, S.W.A.T., meets at 6pm on Sundays and 7pm on Wednesdays. It is an active group with varied activities. On August 16, they are going to see the Hickory Crawdads baseball team play. Then they are going to Christian concert of "Kutless." The cost is $16 per person. See Amy Deyton by July 30th if you would like to go.

August 17 is going to be a busy day. During morning worship special prayers for students and teachers will be given to send God with them on a safe, productive school year. That evening our students and teachers will be honored with all joining them enjoying homemade ice cream and finger foods. This will be fun evening with games for all and good fellowship.

Looking ahead to September 20 when there will be a trip to Carowinds for their Christian Music Day. Among the bands are Toby Mac, Building 429, and MercyMe. Details will come later.

submitted by Ann King

Recent Happenings

Recently Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church gave their best wishes to two graduates, Kayla Morris and Rylie Lytle. A reception was held in their honor. Their families heard about the Godly impact these two young women have made on the congregation. We pray their futures are meaningful to them and to those they come in contact.

June 16th to the 18th Bob and Brenda Parks attended the District Conference in Hickory. They heard many good and uplifting reports on the Church. They were blessed by services and all they learned.


Those attending Camp Wesley will return home on June 21st. Their Church family is looking forward to the stories of God Happenings they encountered. What a blessing for all who attended and for those who were staff to see Jesus working in their midst.

Upcoming is a Holy trip to the Jungle! Vacation Bible School will start June 22nd and go through the 27th. Snacks will be served on Sunday, the 22nd. Dinner will be served at 6pm Monday through Friday. "Water Day" will be on Friday. Commencement will be Sunday, the 29th, during Morning Worship. The staff is looking forward to trekking through the jungle to help the children learn more about their Friend, Jesus.

Wednesday night Bible study continues on "Revelation." Jessica Tipton ably lead the Wednesday night session last week. In the weeks to come Pastor Todd will bring us insight into more of Chapters 1 through 3. You are welcome to join in on this learning experience about God's Word.

Submitted by Ann King

Celebrating Independence Day

The worship service on Sunday, July 7th, included a celebration of Independence Day. A trio started with The Star Spangled Banner and Fisher lead the congregation in the Pledge to Allegiance. The choir sang If My People Will Pray and shared the following prayer:

Our Heavenly Father, King of Kings, and Lord of all the earth,

As we celebrated our nation's independence day this week, we were reminded that Thomas Jefferson once said: "God who gave us life gave us liberty." We would like to thank you for our bountiful nation and for our freedoms that allow us to live in abundance as one nation under God.

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as his own inheritance. Psalms 33:12

Father, we thank you for our lives and commitment to those who have served and are still serving our country in the military. We ask you to  bless their families. May we never fail to remember these service men and women who have sacrificed for our country's freedom. As we celebrate our nation's independence, let us remember that we are dependent on You for everything in our lives and that You are good and holy and will provide all we truly need if only we will trust You. Remind us what true freedom is and that You and Your Son are the only source. Give us humble hearts and make us eager to know You. Help us to remember that the United States of America was established as a covenant Christian nation and that Christians uniting in Christ is our nation's source of unity. As George Washington, our nation's first president, once said: "It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor."

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

We would also like to pray for this great nation's leaders. May they remember the legacy of faith in You that has passed down from our founding fathers. As Patrick Henry, an early American leader, once said: "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ." Remind our leaders today that the only independence of value is the freedom gained when we trust You for spiritual and physical independence through Jesus Christ.

In my anguish I cried to the Lord, and He answered by setting me free. Psalms 118:5

George Washington once prayed: "Oh, eternal and everlasting God, direct my thoughts, words and work. Wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb and purge my heart by Thy Holy Spirit. Daily, frame me more and more in the likeness of Thy Son, Jesus Christ, that living in Thy fear, and dying in Thy favor, I may in Thy appointed time obtain the resurrection of the justified unto eternal life. Bless, O Lord, the whole race of mankind and let the world be filled with the knowledge of Thee and Thy Son, Jesus Christ."

God Bless America.

Heavenly Father, we ask you forgive the sins of this nation and bring us back to Your path of true freedom. In Jesus' name we humbly pray.  Amen

Sermon title:  Are We Respecting God's Institutions?
Scriptures: Deuteronomy 6:1-25 & Matthew 22:15-22
Sermon Points:

God honors order!

(Deuteronomy 6:1-25)

*It is through order that God established His institutions

The institutions that God ordains in His Word:

1. Home (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)
2. Government (Matthew 22:15-22)
3. Church (The Gospels and Book of Acts)

When these three institutions have their rightful place in our lives, there is order. In this state, we can be free of conflict. But, when an institution oversteps its boundary, loyalty to God comes first. May we each understand our responsibility to God as we live and function in the land of freedom!

Centennial Celebration

On May 5, 2013 Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church celebrated 100 years.

The day was filled with family and friends. Over 200 people joined us that day to enjoy a worship service that included music by the Cockman Family, testimonials and reflections from the congregation, guest speaker Mr. Cockman, and special gifts to families of founding members. Afterwards, we shared a wonderful meal and time of fellowship.

The special day was a result of months of work by the anniversary committee: Wanda Pool, Faye Burgin, Ann King, Rebecca Knupp, Candie McPherson, Brenda Parks, Barbara Walker and Helen Walker. Thank you.

                  
As part of the day, the History of Mount Hebron Wesleyan Church was compiled into a book (available here). You can also access the pictures from the day here.

Christmas Programs

We are excited about the events taking place in celebration of Christmas. On Sunday morning at 10am, December 16th, the choir will be presenting the cantata "Silent Night! Holy Night!" during morning worship.

That evening at 6pm, the youth will be presenting the puppet program "Mary Had a Little Lamb." The program presents the truths of Christmas from the animals' point of view. Come hear from "Tiny", a small spotted lamb who wonders what is so important about being 'unspotted' and learns about the beginning of a larger plan to provide salvation.

We hope you can join us and Merry Christmas.

Treasury of Devotion, 1869

O Eternal Father, help me, I beseech Thee, to bring forth in my life the fruits of the Spirit; the fruit of Love, that I may love Thee above all things, and all others in Thee and for Thy sake; the fruit of Joy, that I may find Thy service my delight; the fruit of Peace, that, pardoned and accepted through Thy mercy, I may repose in Thy love; the fruit of Long-suffering, that I may bear, with patient submission to Thy will, all crosses and afflictions; the fruit of Gentleness, that I may subdue all risings of temper, and take calmly and sweetly all trials and provocations; the fruit of Meekness, that I may forgive freely all who may hurt me either by word or deed, and endure with patience all that may be laid upon me; the fruit of Temperance that I may restrain all my desires, bringing them into subjection in all things to Thy holy will - Amen

devotion submitted by Shirley Arrowood

Do We Need a New Fishing Hole?

Luke 5:4-7

⁴ When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.”  ⁵ “Master,” Simon (Peter) replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” ⁶ And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear! ⁷ A shout for help brought their partners in the other boat, and soon both boats were filled with fish and on the verge of sinking.

The disciples fished all night and caught nothing.  They were tired and frustrated.  Have you ever been tired and frustrated after you tried everything you knew to do and nothing worked.  That is how the disciples felt.  They were tired of fishing and not catching anything. 

Then, Jesus told them to go out deeper, fish in a different place.  Jesus wanted them to go in deeper waters.  Deeper water is scarier.  Is God telling you to do something that is scaring you? We may not feel like we can into deeper water.  We may think we can barely keep our head above water where we are.

So although they had fished all night and were tired & hungry, Peter was willing to try again just because Jesus said to.  Peter said, “if you say so…we’ll try again”.  They trusted Jesus and went into deeper waters.  Deeper water - where they didn’t feel so safe, deeper water - where they had to trust God. 

Can we say, "If you say to do it, I will do it."?  The result for the disciples was the blessing and reward was so great they had to call for help, and both were on the verge of sinking.  Moving to the deeper water not only blessed the disciples, other fishermen got in on the blessing! 

Who else could you bless if you move to a deeper fishing hole??  Is God directing you to a deeper fishing hole??

devotion provided by Freddie Killough

Easter Services

We welcome you to celebrate with us our Risen Lord and Savior on Easter Sunday, April 8, 2012.

• Sunrise Service @ 7:30 am
• Breakfast @ 8:00 am
• Worship @ 9:30 am

This day will include communion, singing, a message, and the "Decorating of the Cross."