Cook's United Methodist Church

March 2025 Newsletter

We exist to make followers of Jesus Christ who love God and others.

According to Merriam-Webster, Lent is “[that] period of fasting and regret for one’s sins that is observed on the 40 weekdays from Ash Wednesday to Easter.” And, that time is upon us. (The date for Easter is the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox; that’s why the date is ever-changing.)

Counting backward from Easter Sunday, the historical Church has chosen the 40-day season of Lent to represent its name (Lent, from Old English, means ‘a lengthening’ not only of the day, but also - for Christians - the lengthening or deepening of our relationships with God and with one another.) These 40 days also echo the time Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness, enduring temptation by Satan before beginning his public ministry. 

Again, historically, there are three traditional foci of Lent: prayer, fasting and service/giving that offer us a path toward stronger relationships. In essence, we grow closer to God in our covenant relationship through reflection, service and prayer. In these practices, there are two levels of sacrifice. Practicing the three pillars are sacrificial acts in and of themselves because the shift in when and how we pray, fast and serve requires a shift in time spent doing other things. In a similar vein, the fasting or “not doing” makes space in our lives so that intentional, obedient “doing” can deepen or increase. Reflection, repentance, reconciliation.

As a Lectionary Church (more on this in the April newsletter) we are observing Year C in the three-year cycle, so the gospel of Luke is our focus this year. Did you know that in Luke’s gospel there are more teachings and stories that are set around the table than in any other gospel? Just think about it: 

● the woman who washed Jesus’ feet at the Simon the Pharisee’s dinner party 

● the miracle of water-to-wine at the Cana wedding 

● The calling-down of Zacchaeus from the tree so Jesus could eat with his family 

● Eating with the marginalized and sinners 

● The Last Supper 

● Choosing the lowest seat at the table 

Jesus taught and told stories around the table and those experiences/lessons echo God’s call in Christ to be hospitable and to include rather than exclude, to create community through loving (and consistent) fellowship, and to intentionally trust in God’s provision for all we need. 

Though not recorded in the gospel of Luke, Jesus introduced himself this way: I AM the Bread of Life. The Bread of Life will be the focus of our reflection and prayer and service during the Lenten season here at Cook’s. 

As we move toward Ash Wednesday (March 5) and the beginning of this powerful season, we hope that you’ll plan to join us for: 



● A Service of the Imposition of Ashes (Wednesday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m., Sanctuary) 

● Use the Bread of Life Lenten Devotional Guide (made available March 2) throughout the season

● The Practice of Fasting practice/small group (Wednesdays, 630 p.m., March 12 through April 2 - please sign up by emailing Rev. Sandra) 

● Watch for details regarding other Practice small groups in later Lent (April newsletter) 

● Watch for details regarding worship opportunities in later Lent (April newsletter) 

We are praying for this approaching season to be one of deep discovery and joy for each participant and for the local church/Church as a whole. No doubt, we will be changed as we practice the Way of Jesus together. And, may we remember that Jesus is daily bread not cake for special occasions.

Sandra

The Common Table

Rev. Sandra will pick up the tab for what wets your whistle

You are always free to stay however long you want and can.

There is no agenda; YOU bring the questions, celebrations, beefs,

and burdens and we will share them.

Love will hold us together no matter what.

Come to one or both, invite a friend, meet a new friend, just come! 

Tuesday, March 11 at Corner Pub, 6:00 pm

4136 N. Mt. Juliet Rd.

Tuesday, March 25 at Billy Goat Café, 10:00 am

3690 N. Mt. Juliet Rd.

Men of Cook’s – How Is It With Your Soul?

That is a modern paraphrase of a question John Wesley often asked (well, except for the “Men of Cook’s part) when beginning his gatherings.  His actual question was “How does your soul prosper,” but it seems to me that both questions are important.  Taking stock of where you are spiritually is the first step in answering questions like “How do I get better,” and “How do I get more holy.”

If you’d like to talk more about this, or meet regularly to talk about anything with a group of Christ-following men, we’re thinking about starting up a Men’s Small Group at Cook’s.  It’s not necessarily intended to be a Bible study or a Sunday School class – it can be whatever we want it to be.  If you’re curious, or interested, please respond to Mike Haughey or Monica at your convenience.  

Daylight Savings Time Begins

Sunday, March 9

BOOK CLUB

It's never too late to join the book chat! Our next book will be "Between Two Kingdoms," by Suleika Jaouad. Mark your calendar for May 13, 5:30pm at Calabria. We'll see you there!

Update to Facebook Live Videos

Facebook is updating their policies concerning live videos. This will impact Cook's in the length of time previous live videos will be stored, deleting them after 30 days. You will still be able to watch Facebook Live videos (worship services, Wilmore Wednesdays, etc.), but after 30 days the videos will be automatically deleted. If you are looking for a video older than 30 days, those should still be available on our YouTube channel (unless copyright restrictions do not allow us to publish a video to YouTube). 

SALT (Serving at the Lord’s Table)

UNSWEETENED CEREAL; CANNED SOUP & SALTINE CRACKERS (4 sleeves to a box) 

All donations can be left in totes in back hall.

Samaritan Fund  

The dollars in this fund are used to help those in our community with immediate needs. The money used to fund this account comes from donations left on the altar rail during communion.

Communion Sunday  

We will be celebrating the sacrament of Holy Communion on Sunday, March 9, 2025. If you will be worshipping/celebrating with us from home, please gather bread (or tortillas or crackers, etc.) and juice (if you don't have grape, any juice or liquid will suffice) enough for everyone in your household. We look forward to celebrating God's grace in this very special way.

Backpack Program

The Backpack program supports our neediest children. Students are supplied with food items to bridge the weekend gap during the school year.  The Church at Pleasant Grove sponsors the Backpack Program for 5 schools in our area and they need help stocking their shelves. Items requested are: Instant Oatmeal Packages; Individual Mac & Cheese; Pudding Cups (non-refrigerated; Ravioli, Spaghetti-O's; Granola Bars; Fruit Cups; Applesauce; Juice Boxes (avoid those with lots of sugar). All donations can be left in the totes in back hallway.

Home Centered

Miriam Appleby,

Dot Creasman,

Gladys Pennington,

Norman & Ruby Walker

Concerns:  Cecily Agee; Gary Alford; Calloway; Franklin; Penny Franklin; Boots Mabb’s nephew; Hoss Peterson. Unity & Faithfulness of Cook's UMC

Caregivers Coffee Connection

A Caregivers Support Group meets the third Wednesday of the month at 1pm in Cook’s UMC Youth Room. Our purpose is to surround each other with support and friendship as we encourage the journey of a Caregiver by offering respite and support. If you or someone you know would benefit from a loving time of encouragement or just a place to meet and have conversation, please know you are welcome to meet with us. If you have any questions, call Judy at 615-417-9002.

NEXT Meeting Wednesday, March 19 @ 1pm.

Fellowship Donuts

Volunteers needed to bring donuts for our fellowship time (between first service and Sunday School). There is a sign-up sheet on the wall next to the donut table across from the coffee pots by friendship hall. 4-5 dozen needed each Sunday and must be here by 9:15am. Keep your receipt to be reimbursed by the office. Tax exempt forms available in the office.

Sunday, March 2, Girl Scouts 2-4pm (Youth Room)

Tues., March 4, Solitude Small Group @ 3pm (home of Amie Vaughan)

Wednesday, March 5, Ash Wednesday Service @ 6:30pm (Sanctuary)

Wednesday, March 5, Fasting Small Group @ 7:15pm (Youth Room)

Sunday, March 9, Finance Committee @ 3:30pm (Lamplighters)

Sunday, March 9, Church Council @ 4:00pm (Youth Room)

Tues., March 11, Solitude Small Group @ 3pm (home of Amie Vaughan)

Tuesday, March 11, Common Table @ 6:00pm (Corner Pub)

Wednesday, March 12, Fasting Small Group @ 6:30pm (Youth Room)

Sunday, March 16, Men’s Club Breakfast @ 7:45am (Youth Room)

Tuesday, March 18, 2^nd Tuesday @ West Elementary @ 6:30am

Wednesday, March 19, Caregivers Connection @ 1pm (Youth Room)

Wednesday, March 19, Fasting Small Group @ 6:30pm (Youth Room)

Tuesday, March 25, Common Table @ 10am (Billy Goat Café)

Tuesday, March 25, Staff Meeting @ 11:45am (Library)

Wednesday, March 26, Congregational Care @ 10:00am (Lamplighters)

Wednesday, March 26, Fasting Small Group @ 6:30pm (Youth Room)

Friday, March 28, Friendship Hall Reserved

Saturday, March 29, Boy Scouts Spaghetti Fundraiser (Friendship Hall)

Fridays from 4am – 7am Kitchen Reserved for UMM

Wednesdays @ 7pm Choir Practice (Seekers Room)

Last 2 Tuesdays of month @ 7pm Women’s Ensemble (Seekers Room)

Mondays @ 9:30am Bible Study (Youth Room)

Thursdays @ 6:00pm Boy Scouts (Youth Room & Shine Room)

Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays @ 6:00pm TKD (Friendship Hall)

Tuesday & Thursdays Oliver Academy 7:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Are You on Facebook?  

You can help us spread Cook's news! It's easy: first, be sure to "Like" Cook's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/cooksumc/). Then keep your eye out for announcements, inspiration, and invitations to worship. When they show up in your FB feed, "Like" or "Share" the posts. The more who do, the more people see it, even if they're not yet members and/or don't “Like” the CUMC page. Have photos from a church event or something you want to promote on social media? Send info/photos to Alison Nash or the church office.

In Person Giving An offering plate is passed around during traditional worship service in the sanctuary and an offering basket is available at the back of the Friendship Hall during "The Well" worship service, or you can drop your offering off by the church office during regular business hours.

Online Giving You can give online at www.cooksumc.org or text cumc to 73256.

Standard text message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text HELP to 73256 for help. Text STOP to 73256 to cancel.

Electronic Bank Draft If you are interested in this easy and convenient way of giving, please contact the church office.

Mailing Address: PO Box 397, Mt. Juliet TN 37121

7919 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet TN 37122

615/449-2574

www.cooksumc.org

Sunday Schedule

8:45am Traditional Worship (Sanctuary), Facebook Live & YouTube

10:00am Sunday School

11:00am "The Well" Service (Friendship Hall), Facebook Live & YouTube