Christ Presbyterian Church (PCA)

Month: August 2019

  • Announcements and Order of Worship – August 30 2019

    Sermon Preview

    Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

    Our summer preaching series on ‘The Parables of Jesus’ will come to an end this Lord’s Day as we complete our look at ‘The Parable of the Good Samaritan’ in Luke 10:25-37.

    Popular expositions of this parable seem to take a common path, arriving at a similar conclusion. It is often assumed that the point of this blessed story is purely an ethical one. That is, the parable is told by Jesus in order to show us that the Gospel is about loving whoever is in our pathway, especially the needy.

    In the hands of more progressive interpreters, the parable is then singularly applied to all types of perceived social maladies, from racism, income inequality, mistreatment of the marginalized and the oppressed, to discrimination in all its forms, and the like. The Gospel, then, is reduced to love, our love for the weak, the needy, and the vulnerable. In the words of the lawyer in the parable, one “inherits eternal life” by loving oppressed people.

    However, such an approach to this parable is unfounded and misses the point completely.  While all would agree that love is central to the Gospel, the popular interpretation of the parable only tells part of the story, and it gets the Good News totally wrong!

    If we take the time to read the parable very carefully, and with the immediate context and the rest of Scripture in view, we see that Jesus is not at all suggesting that the essence of the Gospel is loving others. To the contrary, Jesus is demonstrating the absolute impossibly of earning one’s own redemption by the practice of love!

    This parable, then, destroys a popular assumption about love. Namely, that the love which God requires is easy to supply!

    However, as we carefully trace this story to its conclusion on Sunday, we will discover another truth being taught by our Lord. It is one that will surprise us, alarm us, and render us helpless before our Father’s sovereign grace. But it will also shine the light on something truly amazing!!

    Fall Ministries Begin on September 8

    As you know, next week, September 8, is a big day as it marks the beginning of our fall ministries.

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin that day at 9:15 AM, and there will be classes for all ages.

    We will also resume our Second Sunday Fellowship Lunch after worship on that day (see the announcement from Denise Brown below).

    Then, we will be starting a new Preaching Series that will last for 5 weeks, and will coincide with our Adult Sunday School class.

    While I will write more about this next Friday, let me say that we are going to take 5 Sundays to address, from Scripture, some of the significant challenges that the Church, and our denomination, are presently facing.

    You might recall that last year during our Adult Sunday School hour, the Session conducted a discussion-oriented class on the issue of sexuality from a Biblical perspective. This was in response to the controversy that has recently erupted in the PCA over the matter of same-sex attraction. Since then, some significant and very alarming things have happened in our denomination, such that there is clearly a division among us and our 1600 Churches.

    In prayerfully considering how we as a local body of Christ should respond to the rapidly changing theological landscape in the PCA, the Session has asked me to prepare a series of sermons that will both inform and equip our congregation regarding these issues.

    This five-part sermon series will be entitled, ‘Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: The Image of God in Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Consummation.’ From the pages of God’s inspired Word, we are going to discover the Scripture’s teaching on what it means to be a human being created in God’s image. And we will be specifically interpreting and applying this teaching to the Scripture’s grand storyline of creation, the fall, redemption in Christ, and the consummation.

    Then, within this Biblical framework, we will address the issues that are currently threatening the health and unity of the PCA, including, 1) God’s design and purpose for our bodies, 2) how the fall has corrupted God’s image, 3) the nature of sin and temptation, 4) how our redemption in Christ begins to restore the damaged image of God, and 5) how the image of God is perfected in heaven.

    Please pray for us as we prepare these messages, and as your Session seeks to shepherd the Lord’s Church through the tumultuous days that are upon us. While it is a time for appropriate alarm and prudent preparations, it is also a season to rejoice that God is surely at work, and that His Truth shall prevail.

    I love you all so very much!

    Mike

    Counselor’s Corner:

    On occasion someone will ask me what books I might give to someone struggling with grief and loss.  This is certainly not a bad question at all.  After all, there are a myriad of resources on the issue, many of them having the potential to greatly encourage, describe expectations and provide helpful guidance in the midst of pain. Yet, it is also good for us to consider what books I ought to read as I consider helping those struggling with grief and loss.  In this post, we describe three resources that you might consider reading as you approach family and friends dealing with the pain of loss.

    Upcoming Events:

    September 3, 9 AM – Senior Fellows Breakfast
    September 3, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team B Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    September 3, 6 PM – Women’s Evening Bible Study
    September 4, 10 AM – Women’s Morning Bible Study
    September 5, 11:30 AM – Women’s Potluck Lunch at Timbers Edge Clubhouse
    September 8, 9 AM – Sunday School resumes
    September 8, 12 PM – Second Sunday Fellowship Lunch
    September 8, 4:30 PM – Middle and High School Youth Study
    September 10, 9 AM – Mother’s Morning Bible Study
    September 13, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team A Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    September 14, 7 AM – Senior Fellows Work Day at PCA MNA Disaster Relief Warehouse, Rome, GA
    September 18, 6 PM – Deacons Meeting
    September 20, 6 PM – Marriage Enrichment Evening and Dinner
    September 21, 8 AM – Church Work Day

    Order of Worship:

    You can access this week’s Order of Worship by clicking here

    If you’d like to sing the songs with your family beforehand, the songs for this week are:

    All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name – Hymn 296, vs 1,3,6
    How Deep the Father’s Love For Us
    Come Ye Souls By Sin Afflicted
    All Things New

    Announcements:

    Schedule:

    All regularly scheduled studies and events resume next week. Sunday School for all ages resumes on September 8 at 9:15 AM.

    Children’s Ministry Notes:

    Parents, please register your infant to 12th grader for CPC programming emails/database updates. Click HERE to complete the form for each child.

    For anyone who would like to volunteer in our baby nursery, our Fall semester sign-up is now live. Please click HERE and sign up for a couple of dates for the fall and winter months. Older teens are welcome to serve as well!

    I am in need of two new childcare workers on Tuesday mornings for the moms’ study at 9 am. Time commitment is weekly for 2 hrs (9 to 11 am). Please email Ashley if you are interested in this part-time job!

    Sunday school starts back on September 8th at 9:15. I am working on ordering supplies and recruiting teachers. I still need teachers for the 1st/2nd grade class and the 3rd/4th/5th. We can work out a rotating system if you don’t want to teach full-time. I encourage you to pray about this and serve our precious children in this way. These classes are a joy!

    Save the date for the Reformation Celebration on Sunday, October 27th. More details to come, but contact Amy Drown if you’d like to be involved in the planning.

    Youth Notes:

    Sunday School

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin on September 8, at 9:15 AM.

    • Our Middle School Sunday School Class (grades 6-8) will meet downstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Graham and Sarah Burgess.
    • Our High School Class (grades 9-12) will meet upstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Glen Doughty.

    Sunday Night Fellowship and Bible Study

    On every-other Sunday Night, beginning August 25 from 4:30-6:30 PM, our Middle and High School students will meet at the Church for a time of fellowship and Bible study.

    The nightly schedule will go as follows:

    • 4:30-5:00 PM–Joint fellowship and fun time in the fellowship hall
    • 5:00-6:00 PM–Separate Bible Studies:

    Middle School Bible Study (grades 6-8) led by Pastor Mike and Matthew Elliott

    High School Bible Study (grades 9-12) led by Ken Burnett

    • 6:00-6:15 PM–Joint snack and fellowship time in fellowship hall (parents may pick up their students from 6:15-6:30 PM).

    Check the church calendar and bulletin for Youth Group dates. Visitors are welcome.  If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Pastor Mike or Ken Burnett.

    Birth Announcement:

    Congratulations to the Bryant family, who welcomed a healthy Anna Leigh on Monday. Mom and baby are doing well. Praise the Lord for this wonderful blessing! To take them a meal, click HERE.

    Second Sunday Lunches:

    September 8th will begin our Fall series of after church lunches, scheduled for the second Sunday of each month from September through December.  If you would like to help or have questions please email or text Denise Brown:  niniandjb@gmail.com (256) 698-0475
    Please click the link HERE to sign up for food and service contributions for our September 8th Baked Potato Bar.  Thank you so much for all your help!  I’m looking forward to the fellowship and feasting!

    Marriage Evening Conference:

    Dear CPC Congregation, You are invited to join us for a Marriage Evening Conference on Friday, September 20th!  Our evening will include several large group seminars as well as an optional dinner for those interested.  Our hope is that the evening will be a time of fellowship with others as well as refreshment for you personally and in your marriage.  Registration for the event opens on August 1st and concludes August 31st.

    Speaker: Our speaker is Pastor Nate Shurden.  He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. While in seminary, Nate served at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson in Christian education ministry and as Assistant Editor for reformation21, the online magazine of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Upon graduation, Nate was called to be Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at FPC Jackson where he served for three years. In 2010, Nate accepted a call to Franklin, TN to help plant Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Nate is married to Christy, and they have four young children.

    Dinner: We would invite you to join us for dinner!  Catered by Carrabbas, we will begin serving around 5:45 and conclude our meal around 6:45.  There is no cost for the sessions of the conference.  However, for those attending dinner, a $10 per person donation is appreciated in order to mitigate some of the costs of the food.  Given the limited amount of space, we are currently reserving the dinner portion of the event for members of Christ Presbyterian Church.  Please feel free to invite friends and family to join you for the sessions starting at 7pm!

    Details:

    Christ Presbyterian Church
    Friday September 20th, 2019
    Dinner: 5:45 – 6:45**
    Session One: 7:00 – 7:45*
    Coffee Break: 7:45 – 8:00
    Session Two: 8:00 – 8:45

    *No cost for the sessions
    **A donation of $10 for the dinner is appreciated

    Childcare: There will not be any childcare provided at the church during the event.  However, if childcare is an obstacle for your attendance, please indicate as such on the RSVP in the registration link provided in this email and we will contact you for assistance.

    How Do I Sign Up? To sign up online, please follow the link provided here to register for the event!  Please click here.  We will also have a sign-up form each Sunday morning during the month of August in the foyer.

    Questions: Do you have questions?  Please feel free to email Matthew Elliott at matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org.

    Women’s Fellowship Opportunities:

    The women will continue their “First Thursday” monthly luncheons beginning September 4th. They start at 11:30 am at Timbers’ Edge Clubhouse. Other dates this semester are 10/3, 11/7, and 10/5.

    Our quarterly potluck is on Thursday, October 17th, at 6 pm at the home of Carol Calvert. Anyone is welcome – bring a dish to share if you are able! Or drop in last minute for fellowship.

    The Christmas Brunch for the weekly bible studies is December 4th.

    The annual Ladies’ Christmas Dinner is Tuesday, December 10th, at 6 pm at Huntsville Country Club.

    Mark your calendars for these fellowship opportunities. Contact Denise Scrip for any questions.

    Fall Women’s Bible Studies:

    The women are kicking off their fall bible studies with a brunch  on Wednesday, 8/28, at 11:30 am at the home of Carol Calvert. If you are interested in attending a fall bible study, please join us.

    Two women’s groups will begin meeting on Tuesday nights (6-7:30 pm) starting September 3 and Wednesday mornings starting September 4 (10-11:30 am). We will be doing the Jen Wilkens’ video study “First Peter (A Living Hope in Christ). “It can be ordered from Lifeway.com. Sign up in the Narthex.

    A Moms’ Group will begin studying Melissa Kruger’s book “Contentment” beginning Tuesday, September 10th at 9 AM. Childcare will be provided.

    Hope you will consider joining us in the Fall.

    Church Work Day:

    Church Work Day will be at 8 AM, Saturday, September 21.  We will do landscaping, window/mirror washing and other clean up and improvement jobs. We need lots of helpers (men, women, youth) and some tools. A sign up for both will be in the narthex. A lite breakfast will be served. Don’t miss this opportunity to help beautify our church and enjoy great fellowship.

    Senior Fellows:

    On Tuesday, September 3 at 9 AM  the Senior Fellows will enjoy breakfast followed by a special devotional. We will look at Demon Possession/Influence versus Mental Illness in light of all the awful happenings (like mass shootings) in our country today. Pastor Mike and Counselor Matthew will lead/moderate this session. Wives and guests are welcome to attend. Also both Senior Fellows teams will serve at the Downtown Rescue Mission. Team B will serve on Tuesday, September 3. Team A will serve on Friday, September 13. Each team will meet at 11:15 AM and start feeding at 11:30 AM. Carpools will leave the church at 10:30. On Saturday, September 14 the Senior Fellows will help at the disaster relief warehouse in Rome, GA. Jobs may include building a tool work bench, replacing termite damaged trim, and other needed items. We will depart the Church at 7 AM, and return home 5 PM.

    New Member’s and Inquirer’s Class:

    The next class will be held Sunday September 29, from 2-6 PM with dinner following. It is for all who are interested in Church membership at CPC. Taking the class does not obligate you to join, but is required for membership. Sign up in the Narthex.

    Prayer Requests:

    Healing: Please pray for the health of the following individuals: Jose Luis Rodriguez, Linda Baxter, John Baxter, Bill Cowley, Larrabee Kirkland, Chris Smotherman, Elizabeth Holton, Janet Chou, Ramona Edwards, and Nolan Osmer.
    Expecting: Please pray for the Thoms, expecting in November.
    Ministries: Please pray for the following missionaries and ministries: Seth and Jessica Lewis (Ireland); Steve and Rita Williams (New Zealand); Vinnie and Molly Athey (RUF at UAH); RUF at Alabama A&M; Ken and Angie Burnett (FCA).

    Emails:

    general inquiries: admin@christpreshamptoncove.org
    benevolence needs: benevolence@christpreshamptoncove.org
    counsel and ministry needs: matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org
    men’s ministry: men@christpreshamptoncove.org
    women’s ministry: women@christpreshamptoncove.org
    children’s ministry: children@christpreshamptoncove.org
    youth ministry: youth@christpreshamptoncove.org
    senior fellows: seniorfellows@christpreshamptoncove.org

    Address:

    288 Old Highway 431
    Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

  • Announcements and Order of Worship – August 23 2019

    Sermon Preview

    Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

    If I were to ask you to list five of our Lord’s parables, I believe that each of us would have at least two of them in common on our list. One would be the parable of the ‘Prodigal Son.’ The other would be the parable we are going to be considering for two Sundays, beginning this Lord’s Day.

    It is the parable of the ‘Good Samaritan,’ found in Luke 10:25-37.

    On Sunday, we are going to begin looking closely at this beloved parable, one of the most recognizable stories in all of the world. A story that is revered in virtually every place on the globe, in many cultures, and among many peoples, both believers and unbelievers alike.

    But, as we have noted all along the way in our series of message on our Lord’s parables, these blessed stories were not told in a vacuum. They were given by our Lord in a specific setting. And if we are going to be good students of these parables, it is essential that we not only examine the story itself as told by Jesus, but why He told it, to whom He told it, and even where He was when He spoke it.

    And when it comes to this most honored parable, the necessity of evaluating its setting is amplified considerably. This is why we are going to take our final two Sundays in our parables series to look carefully at this story, beginning Sunday with an examination of its context. Why did Jesus give this particular story? To whom was he speaking? These are very important issues if we are going to really grasp the full measure of the parable’s wonderful weightiness.

    This week, we will consider the drama that precedes the story itself.  You can read about it in Luke 10:25-28.

    Understanding this introduction to the parable is the key to its interpretation. If we neglect this setting, we will interpret the parable of the ‘Good Samaritan’ along purely ethical lines (as is so often done!). We will conclude that the heart of the parable concerns being a ‘good neighbor’ to those in need. But, as we will discover on Sunday, this is only part of the truth! The lesson that Jesus will teach here is much, much bigger than is often assumed!

    A Quick Reminder to Our Middle and High School Youth and Parents

    Our Sunday Evening Bible Studies for Middle and High School Students will begin this Sunday at 4:30 PM.

    Both groups will meet together at the Church for fellowship at 4:30, followed by separate Bible studies from 5:00-6:00.  We will conclude our time with fellowship and snacks from 6:00-6:15.

    Please be in prayer for Ken Burnett who will teach the High School, and for me and Mathew Elliott who will lead the Middle School study.

    Blessings, love, and many prayers to each of you in Christ our Lord,

    Mike

    Counselor’s Corner:

    On occasion someone will ask me what books I might give to someone struggling with grief and loss.  This is certainly not a bad question at all.  After all, there are a myriad of resources on the issue, many of them having the potential to greatly encourage, describe expectations and provide helpful guidance in the midst of pain. Yet, it is also good for us to consider what books I ought to read as I consider helping those struggling with grief and loss.  In this post, we describe three resources that you might consider reading as you approach family and friends dealing with the pain of loss.

    Upcoming Events:

    August 25, 4:30 PM – Youth Bible Study for Middle and High School Students
    September 3, 9 AM – Senior Fellows Breakfast
    September 3, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team B Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    September 3, 6 PM – Women’s Evening Bible Study
    September 4, 10 AM – Women’s Morning Bible Study
    September 5, 11:30 AM – Women’s Potluck Lunch at Timbers Edge Clubhouse
    September 8, 9 AM – Sunday School resumes
    September 10, 9 AM – Mother’s Morning Bible Study
    September 13, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team A Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    September 14, 7 AM – Senior Fellows Work Day at PCA MNA Disaster Relief Warehouse, Rome, GA
    September 18, 6 PM – Deacons Meeting
    September 20, 6 PM – Marriage Enrichment Evening and Dinner
    September 21, 8 AM – Church Work Day

    Order of Worship:

    You can access this week’s Order of Worship by clicking here

    If you’d like to sing the songs with your family beforehand, the songs for this week are:

    To Thee I Come
    I Need Thee Every Hour – Hymn 674, vs 1-3, 5
    Fairest Lord Jesus – Hymn 170, vs 1-3
    How Deep

    Announcements:

    Summer Schedule:

    Christ Pres is on Summer Schedule, which means Sunday School and regular weekly activities are on hiatus. Our weekly time of fellowship begins at 10 AM, with worship beginning at 10:30 AM. Regular weekly activities resume September 3 and Sunday School resumes September 8.

    Children’s Ministry Notes:

    Parents, please register your infant to 12th grader for CPC programming emails/database updates. Click HERE to complete the form for each child.

    Sunday school starts back on September 8th at 9:15. I am working on ordering supplies and recruiting teachers. I still need teachers for the 1st/2nd grade class and the 3rd/4th/5th. We can work out a rotating system if you don’t want to teach full-time. I encourage you to pray about this and serve our precious children in this way. These classes are a joy!

    Southwood has invited us to the Slugs and Bugs concert (Randall Goodgame) on Friday, August 23rd. You can buy tickets HERE.

    Save the date for the Reformation Celebration on Sunday, October 27th. More details to come, but contact Amy Drown if you’d like to be involved in the planning.

    Youth Notes:

    Dear Parents of Middle and High School Students, and CPC Youth,

    I wanted to let you know of our plans for our Bible Teaching Ministry to our students that will commence in just a few short weeks. There are two main areas I want to focus upon.

    Sunday School

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin on September 8, at 9:15 AM.

    • Our Middle School Sunday School Class (grades 6-8) will meet downstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Graham and Sarah Burgess.
    • Our High School Class (grades 9-12) will meet upstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Glen Doughty.

    Sunday Night Fellowship and Bible Study

    Then, on every-other Sunday Night, beginning August 25 from 4:30-6:30 PM, our Middle and High School students will meet at the Church for a time of fellowship and Bible study.

    The nightly schedule will go as follows:

    • 4:30-5:00 PM–Joint fellowship and fun time in the fellowship hall
    • 5:00-6:00 PM–Separate Bible Studies:

    Middle School Bible Study (grades 6-8) led by Pastor Mike and Matthew Elliott

    High School Bible Study (grades 9-12) led by Ken Burnett

    • 6:00-6:15 PM–Joint snack and fellowship time in fellowship hall (parents may pick up their students from 6:15-6:30 PM).

    The full schedule of Sunday night meetings for the remainder of the fall will be released next week.

    Visitors Welcome!!

    Both our Sunday School and Sunday Night Studies are open to all of our Middle and High School Youth. Plus, we encourage visitors to attend as well, especially those who may not know our Lord, or those who are not involved in a local Church.

    I am especially looking forward to making some good connections with our Youth this fall, and I would ask that you begin praying for these ministries and leaders, and each of our young people.

    If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me or Ken Burnett.

    Marriage Evening Conference:

    Dear CPC Congregation, You are invited to join us for a Marriage Evening Conference on Friday, September 20th!  Our evening will include several large group seminars as well as an optional dinner for those interested.  Our hope is that the evening will be a time of fellowship with others as well as refreshment for you personally and in your marriage.  Registration for the event opens on August 1st and concludes August 31st.

    Speaker: Our speaker is Pastor Nate Shurden.  He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. While in seminary, Nate served at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson in Christian education ministry and as Assistant Editor for reformation21, the online magazine of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Upon graduation, Nate was called to be Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at FPC Jackson where he served for three years. In 2010, Nate accepted a call to Franklin, TN to help plant Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Nate is married to Christy, and they have four young children.

    Dinner: We would invite you to join us for dinner!  Catered by Carrabbas, we will begin serving around 5:45 and conclude our meal around 6:45.  There is no cost for the sessions of the conference.  However, for those attending dinner, a $10 per person donation is appreciated in order to mitigate some of the costs of the food.  Given the limited amount of space, we are currently reserving the dinner portion of the event for members of Christ Presbyterian Church.  Please feel free to invite friends and family to join you for the sessions starting at 7pm!

    Details:

    Christ Presbyterian Church
    Friday September 20th, 2019
    Dinner: 5:45 – 6:45**
    Session One: 7:00 – 7:45*
    Coffee Break: 7:45 – 8:00
    Session Two: 8:00 – 8:45

    *No cost for the sessions
    **A donation of $10 for the dinner is appreciated

    Childcare: There will not be any childcare provided at the church during the event.  However, if childcare is an obstacle for your attendance, please indicate as such on the RSVP in the registration link provided in this email and we will contact you for assistance.

    How Do I Sign Up? To sign up online, please follow the link provided here to register for the event!  Please click here.  We will also have a sign-up form each Sunday morning during the month of August in the foyer.

    Questions: Do you have questions?  Please feel free to email Matthew Elliott at matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org.

    Women’s Fellowship Opportunities:

    The women will continue their “First Thursday” monthly luncheons beginning September 4th. They start at 11:30 am at Timbers’ Edge Clubhouse. Other dates this semester are 10/3, 11/7, and 10/5.

    Our quarterly potluck is on Thursday, October 17th, at 6 pm at the home of Carol Calvert. Anyone is welcome – bring a dish to share if you are able! Or drop in last minute for fellowship.

    The Christmas Brunch for the weekly bible studies is December 4th.

    The annual Ladies’ Christmas Dinner is Tuesday, December 10th, at 6 pm at Huntsville Country Club.

    Mark your calendars for these fellowship opportunities. Contact Denise Scrip for any questions.

    Fall Women’s Bible Studies:

    The women are kicking off their fall bible studies with a brunch  on Wednesday, 8/28, at 11:30 am at the home of Carol Calvert. If you are interested in attending a fall bible study, please join us.

    Two women’s groups will begin meeting on Tuesday nights (6-7:30 pm) starting September 3 and Wednesday mornings starting September 4 (10-11:30 am). We will be doing the Jen Wilkens’ video study “First Peter (A Living Hope in Christ). “It can be ordered from Lifeway.com. Sign up in the Narthex.

    A Moms’ Group will begin studying Melissa Kruger’s book “Contentment” beginning Tuesday, September 10th at 9 AM. Childcare will be provided.

    Hope you will consider joining us in the Fall.

    Church Work Day:

    Church Work Day will be at 8 AM, Saturday, September 21.  We will do landscaping, window/mirror washing and other clean up and improvement jobs. We need lots of helpers (men, women, youth) and some tools. A sign up for both will be in the narthex. A lite breakfast will be served. Don’t miss this opportunity to help beautify our church and enjoy great fellowship.

    Senior Fellows:

    On Tuesday, September 3 at 9 AM  the Senior Fellows will enjoy breakfast followed by a special devotional. We will look at Demon Possession/Influence versus Mental Illness in light of all the awful happenings (like mass shootings) in our country today. Pastor Mike and Counselor Matthew will lead/moderate this session. Wives and guests are welcome to attend. Also both Senior Fellows teams will serve at the Downtown Rescue Mission. Team B will serve on Tuesday, September 3. Team A will serve on Friday, September 13. Each team will meet at 11:15 AM and start feeding at 11:30 AM. Carpools will leave the church at 10:30. On Saturday, September 14 the Senior Fellows will help at the disaster relief warehouse in Rome, GA. Jobs may include building a tool work bench, replacing termite damaged trim, and other needed items. We will depart the Church at 7 AM, and return home 5 PM.

    New Member’s and Inquirer’s Class:

    The next class will be held Sunday September 29, from 2-6 PM with dinner following. It is for all who are interested in Church membership at CPC. Taking the class does not obligate you to join, but is required for membership. Sign up in the Narthex.

    Prayer Requests:

    Healing: Please pray for the health of the following individuals: Jose Luis Rodriguez, Linda Baxter, John Baxter, Bill Cowley, Larrabee Kirkland, Chris Smotherman, Elizabeth Holton, Janet Chou, Ramona Edwards, and Nolan Osmer.
    Expecting: Please pray for the Bryant family, expecting in September, and the Thoms, expecting in November.
    Ministries: Please pray for the following missionaries and ministries: Seth and Jessica Lewis (Ireland); Steve and Rita Williams (New Zealand); Vinnie and Molly Athey (RUF at UAH); RUF at Alabama A&M; Ken and Angie Burnett (FCA).

    Emails:

    general inquiries: admin@christpreshamptoncove.org
    benevolence needs: benevolence@christpreshamptoncove.org
    counsel and ministry needs: matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org
    men’s ministry: men@christpreshamptoncove.org
    women’s ministry: women@christpreshamptoncove.org
    children’s ministry: children@christpreshamptoncove.org
    youth ministry: youth@christpreshamptoncove.org
    senior fellows: seniorfellows@christpreshamptoncove.org

     

    Address:

    288 Old Highway 431
    Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

  • Counselor’s Corner: Grief and Loss – Three Resources

    On occasion someone will ask me what books I might give to someone struggling with grief and loss.  This is certainly not a bad question.  After all, there are a myriad of resources on the issue, many of them having the potential to greatly encourage, describe expectations and provide helpful guidance in the midst of pain.  With that being said, I generally encourage others to not give books to those who are grieving.  At least not at first.  There are a number of reasons for this.  Among them, I think that it is first helpful for you to do a little reading of your own — to get down and put on their shoes if you will.  Additionally, there are a number of other things that comforters and counselors can do to help.  And, we might miss these by occupying ourselves with the giving of books rather than first understanding what those things are!  Here a few resources for you to consider reading when coming alongside of others struggling with grief and loss.

    What Grieving People Wish You Knew About What Really Helps (And What Really Hurts)

    Written by Nancy Guthrie, this book is designed specifically for those who want to become better helpers to those suffering.  Guthrie’s vision is not simply that you avoid the things that would hurt.  Rather, she insists that you have the opportunity to provide deep encouragement and support in those times.  Alluding to the death of two of her children, she writes, “Over these years since Hope and Gabriel died, I’ve interacted with many grieving people.  I’ve listened to grieving people talk about their deep disappointment and ongoing alienation from people around them who just don’t seem to ‘get it.’  But I’ve also heard them speak movingly of the unexpected, often simply things people around them have said or done that demonstrated a deep sensitivity to their pain and a willingness to enter into it with them.”  (Guthrie, 13)

    She covers a number of topics including what to say and not say, as well as what to do and not do.  She explores helpful assumptions that we might make regarding those who grieve and also tackles the thorny issue of talking about heaven and hell.  While Guthrie’s book is not an exhaustive treatment of the subject (possibly leaving you with a few more questions by the end of the read), her counsel is clear, frank and quite practical.  This is a great place to start when considering encouraging those who are working through grief and loss.

    Getting to the Other Side of Grief

    Though this resource is specifically about the loss of a spouse, it contains many principles and practices that would be applicable in a number of grief situations.  What is unique about this book is that it is coauthored by a pastor and a counselor who each had lost their spouse.  Throughout the book, they offer complementary perspectives, one from the pastor and one from the counselor on a various topics.  For instance, on the topic of the process of grief, the counselor urges those grieving to consider the myths, tasks, and themes of the grief process.  The pastor, on the other hand, encourages the grieving to consider the One who accompanies us as we “walk through the valley of the shadow of death.”

    Because this work is geared specifically to the situation of the loss of a spouse, the authors discuss a number of issues specifically related to those circumstances.  How should I grieve as a parent?  How do I navigate financial and employment issues?  Should I and how should I consider the prospect of remarriage?  Nevertheless, their treatment of the general process of grief is a valuable resource for those who are grieving, as well as those who wish to help others.  In answering the question of ‘why grieve,’ the authors propose a counter question that functions as a gracious challenge to those working through grief: Because you cannot simply ignore the acute sense of pain in grief, they ask ‘how intentional will you be in the process?’ (De Vries and Zonnebelt-Smeenge, p. 14)

    Job

    Arguably, the book of Job is not primarily about grief or loss or counseling.  Rather, God recognizes the perennial and troublesome questions associated with faith and suffering.  Is God really in control?  Does this God truly love me?  How can a God of absolute power and absolute goodness coexist with the reality of evil and suffering?  Can I trust God?  Yet, the narrative alongside these questions provides us with some helpful clues on how to approach those in pain.

    As you recall, as Job faces the loss of all his wealth and possessions, physical pain, and grief over the death of his family, several ‘comforters’ sit with him as helpers, as counselors.  Their counsel provides little comfort to Job in his pain.  “How then will you comfort me with empty nothings?  There is nothing left in your answers but falsehood.” (Job 21:34)  How might you appreciate that response from someone you are trying to help?  We might be inclined to defend Job’s comforters.  Yet, we would be surprised to see that God himself rebukes them: “After the Lord had spoken these words to Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite: ‘My anger burns against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.” (Job 42:7)

    What might we learn from reading this book, taking note of Job’s counselors?  Let me suggest several things.  First, there exists a priority of listening over speaking.  After having been taught as a child that I have two ears and one mouth, and after having experienced the frustration of not being heard at times in my life, and after going through a counseling program that intentionally instructs the students on listening skills, I am often amazed at how I fail to do this.  James reminds us: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak.”  (James 1:19)  One of my heroes of the faith, Francis Schaeffer, once stated that if had one hour to spend with someone, he would spend 55 minutes listening by asking questions and then spend the last 5 minutes sharing the truth.  (https://www.covenantseminary.edu/francis-schaeffer-the-man-and-his-message/)  There is a unique power that comes through simple, engaged listening.

    Second, suffering is complex.  There is a tendency among Christians to first insist that any human suffering comes from personal sin.  Jesus’ first disciples grappled with Jesus’ astounding claim: “As he passed by, he saw a man blind from birth.  And his disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.’” (John 9:1-3)  Approaching pain, grief, and loss is a sobering, messy, and complicated work.  More often than not, we find circumstances to be mixed, an alchemy of guilt over personal failure, brokenness due to a fallen world, and becoming a victim to injustices happening to us.  Such complexity should lead us to a slow, unassuming and paced approach as we come alongside others in need.

    Zonnebelt-Smeenge Ed.D Susan J. R. N. and De Vries C Robert, Getting to the Other Side of Grief: Overcoming the Loss of a Spouse, (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Books, 1998).

    Nancy Guthrie, What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps, (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway, 2016).

  • Fall Programs 2019

  • Announcements and Order of Worship – August 16 2019

    Sermon Preview

    Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

    Not all of the parables of Jesus are easy to understand or apply. Some are readily interpreted and applied because Jesus Himself gives us the meaning. For example, the parable of the sower recorded in Matthew 13 is immediately explained by Jesus such that there is little doubt about its meaning. And other parables of our Lord are so very simple that no explanation is even needed. This would apply to the parable of the mustard seed (also in Matthew 13), and the parable of the lamp (Luke 8).

    But then, there are some parables that are deeply mysterious, seemingly obscure, and even confusing to us. Such is the case with the parable that we will examine this coming Lord’s Day.

    In Luke 16 we find what has been called the most perplexing of Jesus’ parables, the parable of the dishonest manager (16:1-9). Some even find this parable to be embarrassing for Christians, since it appears that Jesus endorses dishonesty (see v. 9).

    The parable itself is actually quite entertaining, for in it we meet a man who has to think very quickly on his feet in order to get out of a big jam. According to Jesus, he demonstrates the quality of shrewdness, a character trait that, oddly enough, should be found in all disciples (vv. 8-9).

    Despite the apparent difficulties with this story, it is nonetheless aimed primarily at Jesus’ disciples (16:1), and, therefore, it has much to teach us as well. It will be a rich blessing, if not a challenge, to explore this parable together on Sunday!

    Your Help Needed in Children’s Sunday School!

    Ashley Turnbull, our Children’s Coordinator, has two additional needs for children’s Sunday school which begins on September 8th.

    She needs 1 or 2 teachers for the 1st and 2nd grade class and 1 additional teacher to rotate in the 3rd/4th/5th grade class.

    Please prayerfully consider serving the Lord and His Church in this way, and contact Ashley if you have interest in any of these areas.

    I love you all so much!

    Mike

    Counselor’s Corner:

    Grief and loss are experiences that we all will face in this life.  Over the next several posts, I intend to provide a few resources on the topic of grief and loss.  Ashley Turnbull recently attended a children’s ministry conference where she was able to listen to several lectures on the topic.  Her experience in that seminar may provide you with an interest in the ministry of GriefShare, as well as some basic encouragement when dealing with grief and loss for yourself or those you know.

    Upcoming Events:

    August 20, 10  AM- Senior Fellows visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn for defensive training
    September 3, 6 PM – Women’s Evening Bible Study
    September 4, 10 AM – Women’s Morning Bible Study
    September 5, 11:30 AM – Women’s Potluck Lunch at Timbers Edge Clubhouse
    September 8, 9 AM – Sunday School resumes
    September 10, 9 AM – Mother’s Morning Bible Study
    September 18, 6 PM – Deacons Meeting
    September 20, 6 PM – Marriage Enrichment Evening and Dinner

    Order of Worship:

    You can access this week’s Order of Worship by clicking here

    If you’d like to sing the songs with your family beforehand, the songs for this week are:

    I Know Whom I Have Believed – Hymn 705, vs 1-4
    This Is My Father’s World – Hymn 111, vs 1-3
    Dear Refuge of My Weary Soul
    More Love To Thee – Hymn 649, vs 1, 2, 4

    Announcements:

    Summer Schedule:

    Christ Pres is on Summer Schedule, which means Sunday School and regular weekly activities are on hiatus. Our weekly time of fellowship begins at 10 AM, with worship beginning at 10:30 AM. Regular weekly activities resume September 3 and Sunday School resumes September 8.

    Children’s Ministry Notes:

    Parents, please register your infant to 12th grader for CPC programming emails/database updates. Click HERE to complete the form for each child.

    Sunday school starts back on September 8th at 9:15. I am working on ordering supplies and recruiting teachers. I still need teachers for the 1st/2nd grade class and the 3rd/4th/5th. We can work out a rotating system if you don’t want to teach full-time. I encourage you to pray about this and serve our precious children in this way. These classes are a joy!

    Southwood has invited us to the Slugs and Bugs concert (Randall Goodgame) on Friday, August 23rd. You can buy tickets HERE.

    Save the date for the Reformation Celebration on Sunday, October 27th. More details to come, but contact Amy Drown if you’d like to be involved in the planning.

    Youth Notes:

    Dear Parents of Middle and High School Students, and CPC Youth,

    I wanted to let you know of our plans for our Bible Teaching Ministry to our students that will commence in just a few short weeks. There are two main areas I want to focus upon.

    Sunday School

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin on September 8, at 9:15 AM.

    • Our Middle School Sunday School Class (grades 6-8) will meet downstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Graham and Sarah Burgess.
    • Our High School Class (grades 9-12) will meet upstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Glen Doughty.

    Sunday Night Fellowship and Bible Study

    Then, on every-other Sunday Night, beginning August 25 from 4:30-6:30 PM, our Middle and High School students will meet at the Church for a time of fellowship and Bible study.

    The nightly schedule will go as follows:

    • 4:30-5:00 PM–Joint fellowship and fun time in the fellowship hall
    • 5:00-6:00 PM–Separate Bible Studies:

    Middle School Bible Study (grades 6-8) led by Pastor Mike and Matthew Elliott

    High School Bible Study (grades 9-12) led by Ken Burnett

    • 6:00-6:15 PM–Joint snack and fellowship time in fellowship hall (parents may pick up their students from 6:15-6:30 PM).

    The full schedule of Sunday night meetings for the remainder of the fall will be released next week.

    Visitors Welcome!!

    Both our Sunday School and Sunday Night Studies are open to all of our Middle and High School Youth. Plus, we encourage visitors to attend as well, especially those who may not know our Lord, or those who are not involved in a local Church.

    I am especially looking forward to making some good connections with our Youth this fall, and I would ask that you begin praying for these ministries and leaders, and each of our young people.

    If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me or Ken Burnett.

    Marriage Evening Conference:

    Dear CPC Congregation, You are invited to join us for a Marriage Evening Conference on Friday, September 20th!  Our evening will include several large group seminars as well as an optional dinner for those interested.  Our hope is that the evening will be a time of fellowship with others as well as refreshment for you personally and in your marriage.  Registration for the event opens on August 1st and concludes August 31st.

    Speaker: Our speaker is Pastor Nate Shurden.  He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. While in seminary, Nate served at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson in Christian education ministry and as Assistant Editor for reformation21, the online magazine of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Upon graduation, Nate was called to be Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at FPC Jackson where he served for three years. In 2010, Nate accepted a call to Franklin, TN to help plant Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Nate is married to Christy, and they have four young children.

    Dinner: We would invite you to join us for dinner!  Catered by Carrabbas, we will begin serving around 5:45 and conclude our meal around 6:45.  There is no cost for the sessions of the conference.  However, for those attending dinner, a $10 per person donation is appreciated in order to mitigate some of the costs of the food.  Given the limited amount of space, we are currently reserving the dinner portion of the event for members of Christ Presbyterian Church.  Please feel free to invite friends and family to join you for the sessions starting at 7pm!

    Details:

    Christ Presbyterian Church
    Friday September 20th, 2019
    Dinner: 5:45 – 6:45**
    Session One: 7:00 – 7:45*
    Coffee Break: 7:45 – 8:00
    Session Two: 8:00 – 8:45

    *No cost for the sessions
    **A donation of $10 for the dinner is appreciated

    Childcare: There will not be any childcare provided at the church during the event.  However, if childcare is an obstacle for your attendance, please indicate as such on the RSVP in the registration link provided in this email and we will contact you for assistance.

    How Do I Sign Up? To sign up online, please follow the link provided here to register for the event!  Please click here.  We will also have a sign-up form each Sunday morning during the month of August in the foyer.

    Questions: Do you have questions?  Please feel free to email Matthew Elliott at matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org.

    Women’s Fellowship Opportunities:

    The women will continue their “First Thursday” monthly luncheons beginning September 4th. They start at 11:30 am at Timbers’ Edge Clubhouse. Other dates this semester are 10/3, 11/7, and 10/5.

    Our quarterly potluck is on Thursday, October 17th, at 6 pm at the home of Carol Calvert. Anyone is welcome – bring a dish to share if you are able! Or drop in last minute for fellowship.

    The Christmas Brunch for the weekly bible studies is December 4th.

    The annual Ladies’ Christmas Dinner is Tuesday, December 10th, at 6 pm at Huntsville Country Club.

    Mark your calendars for these fellowship opportunities. Contact Denise Scrip for any questions.

    Fall Women’s Bible Studies:

    The women are kicking off their fall bible studies with a brunch  on Wednesday, 8/28, at 11:30 am at the home of Carol Calvert. If you are interested in attending a fall bible study, please join us.

    Two women’s groups will begin meeting on Tuesday nights (6-7:30 pm) starting September 3 and Wednesday mornings starting September 4 (10-11:30 am). We will be doing the Jen Wilkens’ video study “First Peter (A Living Hope in Christ). “It can be ordered from Lifeway.com. Sign up in the Narthex.

    A Moms’ Group will begin studying Melissa Kruger’s book “Contentment” beginning Tuesday, September 10th at 9 AM. Childcare will be provided.

    Hope you will consider joining us in the Fall.

    Senior Fellows:

    On Tuesday, August 20, the Senior Fellows will visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn at 2405 Memorial Parkway SW for defensive training. Plan to arrive by 9 AM. Meet at the church at 8 if you want to carpool. Visitors are welcome Lunch will follow at about 11:30. For more information call 256-503-2853.

    Prayer Requests:

    Healing: Please pray for the health of the following individuals: Jose Luis Rodriguez, Linda Baxter, John Baxter, Pat Galecki, Jim Daughtry, Bill Cowley, Larrabee Kirkland, Chris Smotherman, Elizabeth Holton, Janet Chou, Ramona Edwards, and Nolan Osmer.
    Expecting: Please pray for the Bryant family, expecting in September, and the Thoms, expecting in November.
    Ministries: Please pray for the following missionaries and ministries: Seth and Jessica Lewis (Ireland); Steve and Rita Williams (New Zealand); Vinnie and Molly Athey (RUF at UAH); RUF at Alabama A&M; Ken and Angie Burnett (FCA).

    Emails:

    general inquiries: admin@christpreshamptoncove.org
    benevolence needs: benevolence@christpreshamptoncove.org
    counsel and ministry needs: matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org
    men’s ministry: men@christpreshamptoncove.org
    women’s ministry: women@christpreshamptoncove.org
    children’s ministry: children@christpreshamptoncove.org
    youth ministry: youth@christpreshamptoncove.org
    senior fellows: seniorfellows@christpreshamptoncove.org

     

    Address:

    288 Old Highway 431
    Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

  • Announcements and Order of Worship – August 9 2019

    Sermon Preview

    Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,

    When we consider our Lord’s parable of the prodigal son, our attention is naturally confined to the prodigal himself, the younger son who left his home for a life of reckless abandon in a faraway country. But the story of the younger son who returns home is only about the half of it, literally!

    In Luke 15 the parable of the prodigal takes up a full 22 verses. But the last 8 verses are all about the father’s oldest son. For some reason, the story of this other son doesn’t seem to get the attention that it deserves, and the lessons that we should learn often go unobserved.

    The parable of the prodigal son is really about two lost sons, one a long way from home who eventually returns, and one very close to the father, yet remaining distant and estranged. And despite the apparent differences in their respective stories, the two sons have much in common, at least initially.

    Sunday’s message will be taken from Luke 15:25-32 where the second story in this parable, the story of the ‘second prodigal son,’ is presented by Jesus. I hope you will take time to carefully and prayerfully study these verses.  And as you do, please pray that the Word of our Savior will bear its beautiful fruit in our lives as we hear it proclaimed this Lord’s Day.

    I love you all so very much,

    Mike

    Counselor’s Corner:

    Grief and loss are experiences that we all will face in this life.  Over the next several posts, I intend to provide a few resources on the topic of grief and loss.  Ashley Turnbull recently attended a children’s ministry conference where she was able to listen to several lectures on the topic.  Her experience in that seminar may provide you with an interest in the ministry of GriefShare, as well as some basic encouragement when dealing with grief and loss for yourself or those you know.

    Upcoming Events:

    August 11, 4:30 PM – Psummer Psalms recitation
    August 12, 6 PM – Women’s Book Club Potluck at Timber’s Edge Clubhouse
    August 20, 9 AM – Senior Fellows visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn for defensive training
    September 3, 9 AM – Women’s Morning Bible Study
    September 4, 6 PM – Women’s Evening Bible Study
    September 5, 11:30 AM – Women’s Potluck Lunch at Timbers Edge Clubhouse
    September 8, 9 AM – Sunday School resumes
    September 10, 9 AM – Mother’s Morning Bible Study
    September 18, 6 PM – Deacons Meeting
    September 20, 6 PM – Marriage Enrichment Evening and Dinner

    Order of Worship:

    You can access this week’s Order of Worship by clicking here

    If you’d like to sing the songs with your family beforehand, the songs for this week are:

    How Sweet To Wait Upon the Lord
    Stricken, Smitten And Afflicted – Hymn 257, all 4 verses
    Abide With Me
    In Christ Alone

    Announcements:

    Summer Schedule:

    Christ Pres is on Summer Schedule, which means Sunday School and regular weekly activities are on hiatus. Our weekly time of fellowship begins at 10 AM, with worship beginning at 10:30 AM. Regular weekly activities resume September 3 and Sunday School resumes September 8.

    Children’s Ministry Notes:

    • Each August, I send out a registration for infants to 12th graders in order to update our records for both Sunday school and/or youth programs and events. Even if you do not plan to attend SS, please register. Click HERE to complete the form for each child.
    • Sunday school starts back on September 8th at 9:15. I am working on ordering supplies and recruiting teachers. If you are interested in teaching or team teaching, please contact me. I am in need, and this is an excellent opportunity! Please pray about this with me! It is amazing to be involved each week with these kids!!
    • Southwood has invited us to the Slugs and Bugs concert (Randall Goodgame) on Friday, August 23rd. You can buy tickets HERE.

    Youth Notes:

    Dear Parents of Middle and High School Students, and CPC Youth,

    I wanted to let you know of our plans for our Bible Teaching Ministry to our students that will commence in just a few short weeks. There are two main areas I want to focus upon.

    Sunday School

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin on September 8, at 9:15 AM.

    • Our Middle School Sunday School Class (grades 6-8) will meet downstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Graham and Sarah Burgess.
    • Our High School Class (grades 9-12) will meet upstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Glen Doughty.

    Sunday Night Fellowship and Bible Study

    Then, on every-other Sunday Night, beginning August 25 from 4:30-6:30 PM, our Middle and High School students will meet at the Church for a time of fellowship and Bible study.

    The nightly schedule will go as follows:

    • 4:30-5:00 PM–Joint fellowship and fun time in the fellowship hall
    • 5:00-6:00 PM–Separate Bible Studies:

    Middle School Bible Study (grades 6-8) led by Pastor Mike and Matthew Elliott

    High School Bible Study (grades 9-12) led by Ken Burnett

    • 6:00-6:15 PM–Joint snack and fellowship time in fellowship hall (parents may pick up their students from 6:15-6:30 PM).

    The full schedule of Sunday night meetings for the remainder of the fall will be released next week.

    Visitors Welcome!!

    Both our Sunday School and Sunday Night Studies are open to all of our Middle and High School Youth. Plus, we encourage visitors to attend as well, especially those who may not know our Lord, or those who are not involved in a local Church.

    I am especially looking forward to making some good connections with our Youth this fall, and I would ask that you begin praying for these ministries and leaders, and each of our young people.

    If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me or Ken Burnett.

    Prayer for High School Graduates

    This coming Sunday, August 11 (at the beginning of our service), we will have a special time of prayer for any of our High School Seniors who have graduated this spring. If you are one of our High School graduates, and you will be in attendance this Sunday, please let me know by this Saturday.

    Marriage Evening Conference:

    Dear CPC Congregation, You are invited to join us for a Marriage Evening Conference on Friday, September 20th!  Our evening will include several large group seminars as well as an optional dinner for those interested.  Our hope is that the evening will be a time of fellowship with others as well as refreshment for you personally and in your marriage.  Registration for the event opens on August 1st and concludes August 31st.

    Speaker: Our speaker is Pastor Nate Shurden.  He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. While in seminary, Nate served at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson in Christian education ministry and as Assistant Editor for reformation21, the online magazine of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Upon graduation, Nate was called to be Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at FPC Jackson where he served for three years. In 2010, Nate accepted a call to Franklin, TN to help plant Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Nate is married to Christy, and they have four young children.

    Dinner: We would invite you to join us for dinner!  Catered by Carrabbas, we will begin serving around 5:45 and conclude our meal around 6:45.  There is no cost for the sessions of the conference.  However, for those attending dinner, a $10 per person donation is appreciated in order to mitigate some of the costs of the food.  Given the limited amount of space, we are currently reserving the dinner portion of the event for members of Christ Presbyterian Church.  Please feel free to invite friends and family to join you for the sessions starting at 7pm!

    Details:

    Christ Presbyterian Church
    Friday September 20th, 2019
    Dinner: 5:45 – 6:45**
    Session One: 7:00 – 7:45*
    Coffee Break: 7:45 – 8:00
    Session Two: 8:00 – 8:45

    *No cost for the sessions
    **A donation of $10 for the dinner is appreciated

    Childcare: There will not be any childcare provided at the church during the event.  However, if childcare is an obstacle for your attendance, please indicate as such on the RSVP in the registration link provided in this email and we will contact you for assistance.

    How Do I Sign Up? To sign up online, please follow the link provided here to register for the event!  Please click here.  We will also have a sign-up form each Sunday morning during the month of August in the foyer.

    Questions: Do you have questions?  Please feel free to email Matthew Elliott at matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org.

    Women’s Book Club Fellowship:

    Title of book is Even Better than Eden by Nancy Guthrie. Meets Monday nights starting June 10th from 630-8pm at 2 locations
    Home of Sharon Daughtry 5726 Jones Valley Dr HSV 256-520 0824
    Home of Debi Walker 8538 Sedgebrook SE 256 929-3214
    Aug 12th wrap up potluck fellowship for both groups at the Timber’s Edge Clubhouse at 6 PM

    Golf Tournament:

    Attention Christ Presbyterian golfers! The men’s ministry of Cornerstone Presbyterian has invited us to participate in an upcoming golf tournament and dinner on August 11, 3 pm at the Hampton Cove RTJ golf trail short course. The cost is $45/person, and the winning team will take home the prized Reformer’s Cup, which does not feature any magisterial reformers and may not actually be a cup. We are still looking for some additional players to join in the fellowship. If you would like to participate, please send your response to Ben Calvert at calvert.benjamin@gmail.com.

    Fall Women’s Bible Studies:

    Will begin on Tuesday nights starting September 3 and Wednesday mornings starting September 4. We will be doing the Jen Wilkens video study “First Peter (A Living Hope in Christ). “It can be ordered from Lifeway.com. Sign up in the Narthex. There will also be a study for Mothers studying Melissa Kruger’s book “Contentment” beginning Sept 4 at 9 AM. Childcare will be provided. Hope you will consider joining us in the Fall.

    Psummer Psalms:

    Meet at the church house Sunday, Aug 11, at 4:30 for recitation, pizza, and ice cream. The goal is to encourage one another toward memorizing one entire Psalm each summer, and this year we have some reciting and others singing their chosen Psalm. All are invited to join, whether you have a Psalm to recite or not.

    Senior Fellows:

    On Tuesday, August 20, the Senior Fellows will visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn at 2405 Memorial Parkway SW for defensive training. Plan to arrive by 9 AM. Meet at the church at 8 if you want to carpool. Visitors are welcome Lunch will follow at about 11:30. For more information call 256-503-2853.

    Prayer Requests:

    Healing: Please pray for the health of the following individuals: Jose Luis Rodriguez, Linda Baxter, John Baxter, Pat Galecki, Jim Daughtry, Bill Cowley, Larrabee Kirkland, Chris Smotherman, Elizabeth Holton, Janet Chou, Ramona Edwards, and Nolan Osmer.
    Expecting: Please pray for the Bryant family, expecting in September, and the Thoms, expecting in November.
    Ministries: Please pray for the following missionaries and ministries: Seth and Jessica Lewis (Ireland); Steve and Rita Williams (New Zealand); Vinnie and Molly Athey (RUF at UAH); RUF at Alabama A&M; Ken and Angie Burnett (FCA).

    Emails:

    general inquiries: admin@christpreshamptoncove.org
    benevolence needs: benevolence@christpreshamptoncove.org
    counsel and ministry needs: matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org
    men’s ministry: men@christpreshamptoncove.org
    women’s ministry: women@christpreshamptoncove.org
    children’s ministry: children@christpreshamptoncove.org
    youth ministry: youth@christpreshamptoncove.org
    senior fellows: seniorfellows@christpreshamptoncove.org

     

    Address:

    288 Old Highway 431
    Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

  • Mid Week Announcement – CPC Youth

    Wednesday August 7, 2019

    Dear Parents of Middle and High School Students, and CPC Youth,

    I wanted to let you know of our plans for our Bible Teaching Ministry to our students that will commence in just a few short weeks. There are two main areas I want to focus upon.

    Sunday School

    Our fall semester of Sunday School will begin on September 8, at 9:15 AM.

    • Our Middle School Sunday School Class (grades 6-8) will meet downstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Graham and Sarah Burgess.
    • Our High School Class (grades 9-12) will meet upstairs at the Church house and will be taught by Glen Doughty.

    Sunday Night Fellowship and Bible Study

    Then, on every-other Sunday Night, beginning August 25 from 4:30-6:30 PM, our Middle and High School students will meet at the Church for a time of fellowship and Bible study.

    The nightly schedule will go as follows:

    • 4:30-5:00 PM–Joint fellowship and fun time in the fellowship hall
    • 5:00-6:00 PM–Separate Bible Studies:

    Middle School Bible Study (grades 6-8) led by Pastor Mike and Matthew Elliott

    High School Bible Study (grades 9-12) led by Ken Burnett

    • 6:00-6:15 PM–Joint snack and fellowship time in fellowship hall (parents may pick up their students from 6:15-6:30 PM).

    The full schedule of Sunday night meetings for the remainder of the fall will be released next week.

    Visitors Welcome!!

    Both our Sunday School and Sunday Night Studies are open to all of our Middle and High School Youth. Plus, we encourage visitors to attend as well, especially those who may not know our Lord, or those who are not involved in a local Church.

    I am especially looking forward to making some good connections with our Youth this fall, and I would ask that you begin praying for these ministries and leaders, and each of our young people.

    If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me or Ken Burnett.

    Prayer for High School Graduates

    This coming Sunday, August 11 (at the beginning of our service), we will have a special time of prayer for any of our High School Seniors who have graduated this spring. If you are one of our High School graduates, and you will be in attendance this Sunday, please let me know by this Saturday.

    I love you all so very much, and it is such a joy to be your pastor and brother in the Lord!

    Mike

  • Announcements and Order of Worship – August 2 2019

    Sermon Preview

    Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

    On Sunday we will open the Word of the Lord once again to that familiar and beloved parable of Jesus known as ‘The Parable of the Prodigal Son.’ Of course, we discover it only in the Gospel of Luke, in chapter 15. This Lord’s Day morning we are going to examine what I have referred to as the ‘second act’ of the parable.

    We also need to remind ourselves that this is but one of three parables discovered in Luke 15, each of which Jesus told in direct response to the attitude of the Pharisees and scribes recorded in 15:1, where they “grumbled, saying” of Jesus, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”

    And you will remember that in the first act, verses 11-16, we learned that the boy we know as the ‘prodigal son’ selfishly and foolishly took his share of his father’s estate, and promptly left for a faraway country where he lost every dime he had in wild extravagance and wickedness. Then, at that very moment when his money ran out, a terrible famine hit that country. And this self-centered young man suddenly found himself in an awful situation. Out of money. Out of work. And out of food! And his plight became so very desperate that he found work feeding pigs on a man’s farm. Soon enough, he was so hungry that he gave serious consideration to eating the “pods,” the beans from the carob tree, that the pigs were consuming!

    And you will also remember that this detail, that he worked feeding pigs, signaled to our Lord’s audience that this Jewish boy had descended as low as a Jewish man could go, far down into the abyss of humiliation. This kind of work was seen as an unacceptable occupation, and one completely detestable to the Jews.

    And then, the first act of this parable ends with the sad words of verse 16: “and no one gave him anything to eat.”

    On Sunday we will turn to the next part of this amazing story beginning in verse 17:

    17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ 20 And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.”

    What we find here in these verses is a very good view of two key Biblical themes. The first is the amazing change that took place in the prodigal’s heart, such that he determined to return home in the spirit of repentance. The second is the amazing attitude of the father who welcomes the prodigal home with a heart full of mercy and love.

    I can’t wait to open the Word with you this Sunday!

    All my love and prayers,

    Mike

    Counselor’s Corner:

    Grief and loss are experiences that we all will face in this life.  Over the next several posts, I intend to provide a few resources on the topic of grief and loss.  Ashley Turnbull recently attended a children’s ministry conference where she was able to listen to several lectures on the topic.  Her experience in that seminar may provide you with an interest in the ministry of GriefShare, as well as some basic encouragement when dealing with grief and loss for yourself or those you know.

    Upcoming Events:

    August 6, 9 AM – Senior Fellows Breakfast
    August 6, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team B Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    August 9, 11:15 AM – Senior Fellows Team A Downtown Rescue Mission feeding
    August 11, 4:30 PM – Psummer Psalms recitation
    August 12, 6 PM – Women’s Book Club Potluck at Debi Walker’s house
    August 20, 9 AM – Senior Fellows visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn for defensive training
    September 3, 9 AM – Women’s Morning Bible Study
    September 4, 6 PM – Women’s Evening Bible Study
    September 5, 11:30 AM – Women’s Potluck Lunch at Timbers Edge Clubhouse
    September 8, 9 AM – Sunday School resumes
    September 18, 6 PM – Deacons Meeting
    September 20, 6 PM – Marriage Enrichment Evening and Dinner

    Order of Worship:

    You can access this week’s Order of Worship by clicking here

    If you’d like to sing the songs with your family beforehand, the songs for this week are:

    A Mighty Fortress Is Our God – Hymn No. 92, v.1-4
    Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah
    Have Thine Own Way – Hymn 688 v.1-4
    God of My Life, To Thee I Call

    Announcements:

    Summer Schedule:

    Christ Pres is on Summer Schedule, which means Sunday School and regular weekly activities are on hiatus. Our weekly time of fellowship begins at 10 AM, with worship beginning at 10:30 AM. Regular weekly activities resume September 3 and Sunday School resumes September 8.

    Nursery, Child and Youth Class Registration

    Families, please “register” your infant, child, or youth for the coming year. This will help us as we make plans, buy supplies, and order curriculum. Click HERE to register. Sunday school starts back on September 8th.

    Marriage Evening Conference:

    Dear CPC Congregation, You are invited to join us for a Marriage Evening Conference on Friday, September 20th!  Our evening will include several large group seminars as well as an optional dinner for those interested.  Our hope is that the evening will be a time of fellowship with others as well as refreshment for you personally and in your marriage.  Registration for the event opens on August 1st and concludes August 31st.

    Speaker: Our speaker is Pastor Nate Shurden.  He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. While in seminary, Nate served at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson in Christian education ministry and as Assistant Editor for reformation21, the online magazine of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Upon graduation, Nate was called to be Minister of Discipleship and Young Adults at FPC Jackson where he served for three years. In 2010, Nate accepted a call to Franklin, TN to help plant Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Nate is married to Christy, and they have four young children.

    Dinner: We would invite you to join us for dinner!  Catered by Carrabbas, we will begin serving around 5:45 and conclude our meal around 6:45.  There is no cost for the sessions of the conference.  However, for those attending dinner, a $10 per person donation is appreciated in order to mitigate some of the costs of the food.  Given the limited amount of space, we are currently reserving the dinner portion of the event for members of Christ Presbyterian Church.  Please feel free to invite friends and family to join you for the sessions starting at 7pm!

    Details:

    Christ Presbyterian Church
    Friday September 20th, 2019
    Dinner: 5:45 – 6:45**
    Session One: 7:00 – 7:45*
    Coffee Break: 7:45 – 8:00
    Session Two: 8:00 – 8:45

    *No cost for the sessions
    **A donation of $10 for the dinner is appreciated

    Childcare: There will not be any childcare provided at the church during the event.  However, if childcare is an obstacle for your attendance, please indicate as such on the RSVP in the registration link provided in this email and we will contact you for assistance.

    How Do I Sign Up? To sign up online, please follow the link provided here to register for the event!  Please click here.  We will also have a sign-up form each Sunday morning during the month of August in the foyer.

    Questions: Do you have questions?  Please feel free to email Matthew Elliott at matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org.

    Women’s Book Club Fellowship:

    Title of book is Even Better than Eden by Nancy Guthrie. Meets Monday nights starting June 10th from 630-8pm at 2 locations
    Home of Sharon Daughtry 5726 Jones Valley Dr HSV 256-520 0824
    Home of Debi Walker 8538 Sedgebrook SE 256 929-3214
    Aug 12th wrap up potluck fellowship for both groups at home of Debi Walker
    We will not meet the week of VBS July 15-18

    Golf Tournament:

    Attention Christ Presbyterian golfers! The men’s ministry of Cornerstone Presbyterian has invited us to participate in an upcoming golf tournament and dinner on August 11, 3 pm at the Hampton Cove RTJ golf trail short course. The cost is $45/person, and the winning team will take home the prized Reformer’s Cup, which does not feature any magisterial reformers and may not actually be a cup. We are still looking for some additional players to join in the fellowship. If you would like to participate, please send your response to Ben Calvert at calvert.benjamin@gmail.com.

    Fall Women’s Bible Studies:

    Will begin on Tuesday nights starting September 3 and Wednesday mornings starting September 4. We will be doing the Jen Wilkens video study “First Peter (A Living Hope in Christ). “It can be ordered from Lifeway.com. Sign up in the Narthex. Hope you will consider joining us in the Fall.

    Slugs and Bugs Children’s Concert

    For those of you with younger children, there will be a Slugs and Bugs Children’s Concert at Southwood Presbyterian on August 23 at 6 PM. For more information, click here.

    Psummer Psalms:

    Everyone in the congregation is invited to memorize one entire Psalm this summer, then join us for a recitation at the church, followed by ice cream, Sunday, Aug 11, 4:30pm. “How sweet are your words to my taste…” Psalm 119:103  Recitation can be individual, or together in a group or family. We had a great group last year–young and old sharing God’s word out loud and with conviction. If interested, email darondrown@gmail.com for periodic encouragement and accountability.

    Senior Fellows:

    On Tuesday, August 6 at 9 AM the Senior Fellows will enjoy breakfast, fellowship and a devotional at the Church House. Guests are welcome. Also both Senior Fellows teams will serve at the Downtown Rescue Mission: Team B will serve on Tuesday, August 6, Team A will serve on Friday, August 9. Each team will meet at 11:15 AM and start feeding at 11:30 AM. Carpools will leave the church at 10:30. On Tuesday, August 20, the Senior Fellows will visit Larry’s Gun and Pawn at 2405 Memorial Parkway SW for defensive training. Plan to arrive by 9 AM. Meet at the church at 8 if you want to carpool. Visitors are welcome Lunch will follow at about 11:30. For more information call 256-503-2853.

    Prayer Requests:

    Healing: Please pray for the health of the following individuals: Jose Rodriguez, Linda Baxter, Pam Thomason, John Baxter, Pat Galecki, Jim Daughtry, Bill Cowley, Larrabee Kirkland, Chris Smotherman, Elizabeth Holton, Janet Chou, Ramona Edwards, and Nolan Osmer.
    Expecting: Please pray for the Bryant family, expecting in September, and the Thoms, expecting in November.
    Ministries: Please pray for the following missionaries and ministries: Seth and Jessica Lewis (Ireland); Steve and Rita Williams (New Zealand); Vinnie and Molly Athey (RUF at UAH); RUF at Alabama A&M; Ken and Angie Burnett (FCA).

    Emails:

    general inquiries: admin@christpreshamptoncove.org
    benevolence needs: benevolence@christpreshamptoncove.org
    counsel and ministry needs: matthew@christpreshamptoncove.org
    men’s ministry: men@christpreshamptoncove.org
    women’s ministry: women@christpreshamptoncove.org
    children’s ministry: children@christpreshamptoncove.org
    youth ministry: youth@christpreshamptoncove.org
    senior fellows: seniorfellows@christpreshamptoncove.org

     

    Address:

    288 Old Highway 431
    Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763