Clark Lea at Woodmont July 16

Vanderbilt football coach Clark Lea will be in dialogue with Clay to discuss “Culture, Values, N.I.L., and the Landscape of College Football” on Wednesday, July 16, at 6:30 PM in Carpenter Chapel.

Lea has been the head football coach at Vanderbilt since 2021 after previously serving as the defensive coordinator at Notre Dame from 2018 to 2020. Vanderbilt's 2024 campaign marked one of the best turnarounds in the nation and resulted in a Birmingham Bowl victory.  Among his accomplishments, Lea led the team to its first win over the nation’s #1 team in program history, its first win over an AP top-five team in program history, and its first time with wins over Alabama and Auburn in the same season since 1955. Lea’s defense was instrumental in the turnaround as the Dores held opponents to 23.4 points per game on the season, the lowest total by Vanderbilt since 2015 (21.0). 

Click the button below to RSVP!

Worship Night June 24

Our monthly Worship Night is on Tuesday, June 24, at the new time of 6:30 PM in the chapel. This is a 30-minute, full-band, casual service meant to give you a midweek uplift and reset. Come for some encouragement, music, and fellowship! Questions? Contact moriah@woodmontcc.org

Summer Gospel Sing-Along & Potluck Supper continues

One of our favorite summer traditions is back! On Wednesdays in June & July, we will have a gospel sing-along at 5:15 PM in Room 105, followed by a potluck supper in Drowota Hall at 6:00 PM. Bring food suitable for potluck sharing!

Due to enhanced preschool security, the west entrance won't be open until after 5:00 PM. If arriving earlier, use the entrance with the small white bridge facing Hillsboro Pike or the side door to Drowota Hall near the kitchen

I often find myself thinking about the future of Christianity in America. What will the church landscape look like five, ten, or twenty years from now?  In mainline Christianity, denominational decline and statistics have been depressing for quite a while.  Many churches are aging rapidly and having a hard time reaching the younger generations.  If your nursery is empty and your children’s ministry is struggling, that is not a good sign. If attending your church is boring or painful, that is not a good sign. Energy and hospitality are key!  People want to be inspired, not scolded. Some churches are thriving and bucking this trend.  Recent research suggests that many younger people are turning back to faith for meaning. What have growing churches discovered that needs to be shared with the larger culture?

Here are some key observations that represent opportunities for growth and change.  First, authenticity always matters.  Younger generations can sniff out phoniness and superficiality. There has been too much, "Do as I say, not as I do."  Jesus’ followers must act Christian. Churches and church leaders must be honest and transparent about their own flaws and shortcomings.  I once heard a seminary graduate say that the church is at its best when it is honest about its shortcomings.  Pride can affect any institution because it is comprised of human beings.  

Second, experiencing God’s presence is much more important than just knowing about God.  Harvard theologian Harvey Cox says that we are now living in the "Age of the Spirit."  Beliefs, orthodoxy, and creeds don’t really matter if you don’t experience the transforming presence and grace of God in your own life. Real faith transforms both mind and heart. Christ can challenge and change any of us at any stage of life.  

Third, mission, outreach, and community impact is essential.  Young people want to know that the church is willing and ready to serve in the community and make a difference.  This means getting outside the walls of the church.  Too many churches are insulated and self-focused.  Christ calls us to missional living out in the world.  There is a lot of hurt, pain, and poverty that needs to be addressed locally and globally.  

Fourth, those who intentionally create conflict and division in the Christian community need to be confronted.  Churches have always been very slow and hesitant to do this.  Certain people can create drama and conflict behind the scenes, and they need to be called out.  Allowing bad behavior to persist only does damage to the heath of a community.  

Fifth, certain political and social issues must go unresolved. Many churches try to sort themselves politically, but the church should be a place where partisan politics is secondary to the gospel. We should recognize with integrity that there will not be unanimity on certain political and social topics.  How long do denominations want to keep dividing? This does not mean selling out or abandoning scripture.  Energy spent fighting over these things has done significant collateral damage and would be better channeled into love, service, and compassion.  Christians must learn to set an example on how to have civil dialogue on tough issues knowing that there will always be disagreement.  Christianity needs more unity and less polarization.  

Sixth, Judgment must give way to grace.  The church should be a place where everybody is welcome because nobody is perfect.  We all sin and have our flaws.  It’s difficult for people to begin healing and rebuilding their lives if they feel judged and excluded.  Many going through a divorce or separation often stay away from the church when the church should be the first place that helps them recover and get life back on track. Judgement only makes personal pain worse.  Jesus said not to judge and to take the log out of our own eye first.  

Seventh, small groups remain essential for connection and community.  Of course churches cannot mandate this, but small groups (and Sunday School classes) are where growth, formation, and relationships happen. The larger a church gets, the more important small groups are. Nobody can be a Christian in isolation.  It is a religion that happens in community.  Love God, love neighbor.  We find strength and encouragement from others who are dealing with the same problems and challenges in life.  Loneliness is becoming a clear challenge in this digital age.  Many wonder if they have any friends who care.  When small groups are done well, this void gets filled.  

Each of these challenges, if taken seriously, will allow Christianity and the church to thrive for generations to come.

Congregational meeting next Sunday

Our annual congregational meeting and election is Sunday, June 22, at 10:40 AM. Installation of our newly-elected leaders is Sunday, June 29, as part of our 11:00 AM service.

"Lessons We Must Teach Our Children" this Sunday, June 15

Clay Stauffer • “Timeless Values in a Chaotic World” series • Proverbs 22:6, Matthew 21:28-32, & Ephesians 6:1-4 

Our worship schedule this Sunday is:

• 9:30 AM – Informal service in the sanctuary
• 9:40 AM – The Bridge service in the chapel
• 9:40 AM – Middle school service in the youth room
• 11:00 AM – Traditional service in the sanctuary

Please note that our weekly breakfast is taking a break for the summer and will return on Homecoming Sunday, August 17.

New women's Bible study series continues June 12

"Journey to the Heart” Women’s Bible Study is continuing their weekly study on Ephesians: Growing in Christ (Flourish Bible Study) on Thursdays at 10:30 AM in the boardroom all summer long! This is a gathering for women of all ages and life stages who come together to cultivate relationships, foster spiritual growth, and promote Bible literacy. Contact Char Hummel for more charhummel@icloud.com

Additional copies of "Words of Wisdom" booklet available June 15

If you weren't able to pick up your own copy of our "Words of Wisdom" booklet this past Sunday, additional copies will be available this Sunday in the Gathering Hall and in the Chapel Atrium!

Farewell to Sarah Andrews & family June 15

Sarah Williams Andrews has been our beloved piano player at The Bridge since its inception 15 years ago. She and her musician husband Joe were married here at Woodmont, and their children have been faithful members of our Children's Ministry and Grace Notes. 

The Andrews are moving to Virginia to be closer to Sarah's family this summer. This Sunday, June 15, we'll host a farewell reception honoring Sarah's ministry and music at Woodmont immediately following The Bridge in the chapel atrium.

Join us to celebrate this wonderful family and send them off with a loving farewell. 

Engagement & Newlywed Brunch June 21

If you are a newlywed couple or engaged to be married, you’re invited to join us for a brunch to celebrate this very special time in your life! Meet other young couples, enjoy brunch foods, and get to know leaders who will help support you in your new life together here at Woodmont. Reach out to Moriah Domby, our Director of the Young Professionals and Couples Ministries, at moriah@woodmontcc.org or (615) 975-5579 with any questions, click the button below to RSVP!

Sound Bath session June 22

Join our Bridge community for a Sound Bath session on Sunday, June 22, at 1:30 PM in Room 200, led by Mary Clare Pyron. Explore spiritual healing and deep relaxation. There is no cost for this experience. Please come dressed comfortably in loose clothing. 

Singles Fellowship July 6

The Singles Fellowship Group will be meeting at Fat Bottom Brewery (locally owned by one of our members) on Sunday, July 6, from 6-8 PM. This is a gathering for singles in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who share a common interest in serving God and growing in community together. Questions? Contact Todd Pachey at toddpachey@gmail.com

Beth Pattillo speaking at Brentwood UMC potluck July 8

The women of Woodmont are invited to join the women of Brentwood United Methodist Church for a salad supper on July 8 at 6 PM at Brentwood UMC. Our own Rev. Beth Pattillo will speak on “Hope, Hallelujahs, and Happy Endings.” Beth is a minister, writer, coach, and spiritual director. The event will support Ebenezer Pantry, Solana Apartments Pantry, and Vanderbilt Divinity School Pantry. Spend an evening in good company for a good cause and bring a favorite salad, casserole, or dessert to share! Questions? Contact Beth at bethpattillocoaching@gmail.com

Some time ago, one of my organ professors asked me if I knew the secret to being calm in a recital or solo performance. I awaited his answer. He told me simply, "preparation." As I have reflected on it over the years, his answer has stood the test of time. Even as a classroom music teacher, I remember my best days were those when I was prepared and my worst– well, you get the point.

Jesus' wonderful and prophetic parable in Matthew 25 tells of five wise and five not so wise bridesmaids who were on their way to a wedding. All of them, knowing the requirement of light to enter the festivities, brought lamps. Five of them carried extra oil in their vessels and five did not. The bridegroom tarried, so they all slept. At midnight, a cry went out, "The bridegroom comes, go out to meet him!" The foolish bridesmaids begged for oil from the wise, but were refused. While they went to buy more oil, the bridegroom came and those who were prepared went in with him to the wedding and the door was shut.

The parable is generally interpreted as a warning to those who, for whatever reason, assume their standing in the kingdom of God. If oil represents the Holy Spirit and light– salvation, what did the five foolish bridesmaids fail to prepare? They had neglected to cultivate and nurture a relationship with God. A hint to this is given by Jesus at the end of the story, for when the unprepared ladies came late to the door and knocked, the bridegroom simply told them, "Truly, I do not know you." Knowing God takes preparation, intentionality and time. Salvation, though a gift from God, still comes with "some maintenance required."

Are our lights flickering or steady? Do we set aside enough time daily to know Him? For Him to know us? Whenever that day arrives for us to go and meet Him, we can be calm if we have practiced preparation. "And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." John 17:3

Watch Soulful 7 Conversation with Clay & Farrell

This week, Farrell sat down with Clay to discuss his recently published book, What the World Needs Now: Virtue and Character in An Age of Chaos. Their conversation explores how to navigate human existence and maintain hope during a particularly challenging time in history. They talk about the importance of character, truths that you can trust, the importance of resilience, love, and especially a strong faith. Click the button below to watch!

Pastor pens book after Covenant shooting

News Channel 5 ran a piece on May 30 about Clay's book launch - click the button below to watch!

Outreach grants awarded June 5

The Outreach Grants Committee met Thursday night and awarded grants to the following organizations:

A.B.L.E. Youth

Charis Ministries

E.L.I.’s House

The Family Center

First Steps, Inc.

Hope Clinic for Women

Hope’s Bridge

Summer at Woodmont

Photos by Erin Douglas

Operation Backpack for Sponsored Friends in Guatemala

If you would like the Woodmont Youth Team that is traveling to Guatemala on July 5 to deliver a gift to your Unbound sponsored friend, it’s as easy as:

1. Package the items you want to send in a one-gallon zip lock baggie. Gift suggestions are listed below. Please choose lightweight items as we will be carrying about 75 of these gifts with us!

2. Add a letter and a picture of you or your family.

3. Clearly mark the letter with your sponsored friend’s full name and Unbound CH# as well as your name so that this will be delivered correctly.

4. Add $15 cash. We will be purchasing backpacks made by fathers in the Unbound sustainability program. Your gift will go in a backpack and be delivered by Unbound staff in Guatemala.

5. Drop off your package in the Gathering Hall or outside The Bridge on Sunday, June 15, 22, or 29. You can also drop off at the church office no later than Sunday, June 29.

6. Your friend will be so happy to receive this. There is no mail, no Amazon, no UPS in most areas of Guatemala so receiving a gift and a letter is truly an exciting event. Our last backpack project was in March 2024, so your friend will be happy to hear from you again. 

Tips for sending gifts:

- Send items that your friend would like based on their age and gender. Items from Nashville are fun and appreciated.

- Include a letter from your family and a photo. This is received as a special treasure.  

- Small gift ideas include: pens and markers, baseball cap, small games or toys, craft items, comb, toothbrush, bandaids, chapstick, socks, purse, earbuds, yarn, work gloves, reading glasses, sports team t-shirt, stickers. 

No liquids, toothpaste or candy that melts. It must fit in a one gallon baggie!

Thank you for sending your love and well wishes via the Woodmont

Youth!

Clay Stauffer

-  “What the World Needs Now" - Clay Stauffer

-  “The 5 Types of Wealth” - Sahil Bloom

-  “Tim Keller on the Christian Life” - Matt Smethurst

-  “Baptizing America” – Beau Underwood

-  “Thinking Fast and Slow” - Daniel Kahneman “Hope” - Pope Francis

Michael Graham

-  "Come and See: Discipleship in the Gospel of John" - Sherry Brown

-  "Hare Brain, Tortoise Mind" - Guy Claxton

Andra Moran

-  "The Hidden Gospel -- Decoding the Spiritual Message of the Aramaic Jesus" by Neil Douglas Klotz

-  "The Prophetess" by Chelan Harkin 

-  "The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store" by James McBride

-  "Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart" by Brian McLaren 

-  "This Here Flesh" by Cole Arthur Riley 

Roy Stauffer

-  John Mark Comer, "Practicing the Way"

-  William Paulsell, "Let My Prayer Rise to God – A Spirituality for Praying the Psalms"

-  Joan Chittister, "Between the Dark and the Daylight"

-  Jonathan Haidt, "The Anxious Generation"

-  J Phillip Newell, "Christ of the Celts"

Jay Hutchens

-  Ron Chernow, "Mark Twain"

-  Elaine Pagels, "Miracles and Wonders:  The Historical Mystery of Jesus

-  Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, "Abundance"

-  Richard Powers, "Playground"

-  Kimberly Danielle, "The Nine Asks: Creating Safer and More Courageous Spaces"

-  Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Raymond Chang, "Future-Focused Church: Leading through Change, Engaging the Next Generation,and Building a More Diverse Tomorrow"

-  Marc J. Dunkelman, "Why Nothing Works: Who Killed Progress - and How to Bring It Back"

Jerry Johnson

-  "James" by Percival Everett

-  "Challenger" by Adam Higginbotham

-  "Table for Two" by Amor Towles

-  "Atomic Habits" by James Clear

-  "Kingdom of the Poor" by Charles Strobel

Vicki Askew

-  "The Paris Architect" - Charles Belfoure

-  "Rules of Civility" - Amor Towles

-  "A Gentleman in Moscow" - Amor Towles

-  "Gentlemen of the Road" - Michael Chabon

-  "Invitation to Solitude and Silence" - Ruth Haley Barton

-  "Good Apple: Tales of a Southern Evangelical in New York" - Elizabeth Passarella

Farrell Mason

- "God A Minute" by Tracy Fox

- "James" by Percival Everett

- "No Man is An Island" by Thomas Merton

- "Sipsworth" by Simon Can Booy

- "Foster" by Claire Keegan

- "Enchantment" by Katherine May

Calendar

Sunday, June 15

Please note that our weekly breakfast is taking a break for the summer and will return on Homecoming Sunday, August 17.

9:00 AM Grace Notes Rehearsal, Kids' Commons

9:30 AM 21st Century Class, Boardroom

9:30 AM Disciples Class, Room 105

9:40 AM Middle School Service, Youth Room

10:30 AM Sarah Andrews Reception, Chapel Atrium

10:45 AM YP Sunday School, Campbell West

10:45 AM The Life Class, Bay Room

10:45 AM Reflections Class, Room 200

10:45 AM Connection Class, Room 232

11:00 AM Points of View Class, Room 105

3:00 PM Pickleball, Drowota Hall

Monday, June 16

3:00 PM "Geezers" Group, Boardroom

Tuesday, June 17

6:30 PM Alateen (ages 12-19), South Hall

6:30 PM Parents Al-Anon Group, Room 105

8:00 PM AA Meeting, South Hall 

Wednesday, June 18

6:00 AM Roy Stauffer’s Men’s Group, Room 105

7:00 AM Clay Stauffer’s Men’s Group, Boardroom

8:00 AM Men’s Bible Study, Room 105

5:15 PM Gospel Sing-Along, Room 105

6:00 PM Potluck Supper, Drowota Hall

6:00 PM GriefShare, Campbell West

6:00 PM DivorceCare, The Bay Room

6:15 PM Disciples Women's Bible Study, Room 200

6:30 PM Choir Rehearsal, Sanctuary

Thursday, June 19

10:00 AM Sit & Stitch, Gathering Hall

1:00 PM Mahjong Group, Gathering Hall

5:30 PM Handbells Rehearsal, Choir Room

6:30 PM Andra Moran Virtual Vespers, Zoom

6:30 PM Nar-Anon, Room 105

8:00 PM AA Meeting, South Hall 

Friday, June 20

3:00 PM Pickleball, Drowota Hall

Saturday, June 21

10:00 AM Al-Anon, Drowota Hall