The newsletter for St. Mark's UMC in Murfreesboro, TN | | "The Messenger" Online Newsletter | | |
Sisters & Brothers,
In my first newsletter article, I would like to take the time to thank the folks of St. Mark’s for such a warm welcome. Please know that Becky and I appreciate the cards, notes, emails, and in-person blessings we have received. The outpouring of love has been moving, and we have not yet arrived at our welcome celebration on July 12. Again, I am humbled and honored by the love and grace that has been coming our way!
Along those lines, I would like to reiterate what Pastor Tommy said in his last newsletter article, “Long before I arrived, God was at work in this congregation and long after I leave, God will continue to be at work. This church belongs to Jesus Christ. Its strength is found not in one leader, but in the faith, generosity, service, and love of God’s people.” These words are profound, true, and an appropriate reminder during a pastoral transition. It is the Holy Spirit moving in and through the people of God that make the difference in a congregation. In such a very short time, I am already seeing, and I have experienced the faith and love of people called United Methodist at St. Mark’s.
I have missed the life and rhythm of a local church and I am excited to serve and work among you in the name of Christ. May God guide our steps, be a light on our path, and give us the strength and wisdom to follow as the Holy Spirit leads and guides.
God bless,
Rick
| New Sermon Series this Sunday | |
Following Jesus
July 12 — Doing Good (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23)
July 19 — Doing No Harm (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43)
July 26 — Staying in Love with God (Romans 8:26-39)
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St. Mark's Capital Campaign
July 2026
Dear St Marks Family,
I keep noticing something, and I wonder if you have too: the Spirit moves us. Not steadily, like a chart climbing toward a goal but more like water finding its way around obstacles we didn't know were there.
Here's what's true. We've already committed $280,000 toward the $400,000 needed to close out the Sanctuary debt. That's not a fundraising number. That's people saying yes before they fully understood why. I don't know how else to explain it.
$120,000 remains. Close that gap, and we stop paying a mortgage and start funding ministry with that same $10,000 a month for whatever God is already doing in the lives around us (probably more than we've imagined).
Here's what I keep coming back to: faith rarely works backward from certainty. We don't feel ready and then act. We act, and readiness follows. Several of you have told me that's exactly how it went for you. The commitment came first, and God met you in the gap.
So I won't tell you what to give. Only you and God can weigh that. But if you haven't yet made a commitment, would you sit with it this week? Not just because we need the number (we do) but because there may be something waiting on the other side of that yes.
Want the fuller story? We're sharing a short video this Sunday, in the room across from the kitchen. Come find me there.
We act. God provides. Let's keep following where the Spirit leads.
Grace and peace,
Alan Morris
Administrative Board Chair: St Marks
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GriefShare
Almost everyone knows someone going through grief: it might be a friend or a family member, a neighbor, or a coworker. You are encouraged to invite them to GriefShare.
GriefShare is a special weekly seminar designed to help persons rebuild their lives after losing a loved one. St. Mark’s group is led by Cyndy Stone Allen, a deeply caring individuals who has experienced grief and wants to help others through the difficult days ahead. You can learn more about GriefShare here.
GriefShare meetings are on Sundays, 4:00 – 6:00 pm for 13 Sessions beginning August 9th. A brief orientation meeting will be held Sunday, August 2nd, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m., and books will be distributed at that time.
All meetings will be held at St. Mark’s in room 504. Limit 10 participants, open to the public. A materials fee of $20.00 is payable to St. Mark’s UMC by Sunday, August 2nd; assistance is available, please speak to Rev. Touchton if needed.
To register or for more information, visit here or email martha@stmarkstn.org
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MTSU Wesley Pickleball Tournament
Wesley of MT is sponsoring its 3rd annual Pickleball Tournament on August 15, 2026. This recreational tournament has two divisions: "Just for the Fun of It" or "We're a little more competitive". Play begins at 9:30am at St. Mark's UMC. The cost is $50 per team. Please check the website at www.wesleyfoundationmt.org/pickleball-tournament for more information and to register.
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St. Mark's Name Tags
If you want a name tag or need an updated one, please do one of the following: visit the welcome desk, contact the office, or fill out the form linked below.
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What's On Your Mind?
As we plan for upcoming ministries, your church staff would like to hear about what’s on your mind and heart so we can respond to your needs more effectively.
You’re invited to respond to this questionnaire by July 15th:
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New Pastor Meet & Greet!
Children & Youth Families are invited to a special Dinner & Game Night with Rev. Rickey and Mrs. Becky on Wednesday, July 22, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at 2123 Shannon Drive.
The main course will be provided. Please bring a side dish to share. Childcare will also be available. Watch your mailbox for a special invitation arriving later this week, and please RSVP to Hannah by July 17.
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The Orchard
Younger Adults, including current and recently graduated undergraduate and graduate students and early career folks, gather to explore current issues of faith and life, and grow together. The Orchard is a place to be nurtured, to grow in faith, and to bear fruit; all are welcome! This class is led by Trish Clark and meets in Room 502. Contact David Cowan (615) 893-3455 for more information.
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Save the Date: Love Serve Lead Day
Saturday, August 22
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
At St. Mark's United Methodist Church, we believe that one of the best ways to demonstrate God's love is through service to our community. As part of that commitment, you are invited to join in service alongside local nonprofits, community organizations, and our own church family. Registration will occur August 2 - 16. Please click the button for more information about the types of projects available, nursery care, and lunch!
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Welcoming Rev. Rickey Wade
A note from Josh Brown
Experiencing a change in lead pastors is a significant event in the life of any congregation; the Staff/Parish Team, church staff, and many lay people are working together to make this pastoral transition as smooth as possible. You are invited to join in as we welcome Rev. Wade and his family into our church family. Here are a few things you can do in the coming weeks to be an instrument of God’s grace in this time:
1) Pray. Pray for Rev. Rickey Wade, his wife Becky, and their family as they prepare to come to St. Mark’s. Please continue to pray for Tommy, Hillary, and Liliana as they prepare for ministry in a new setting and especially pray that their house will sell soon. Finally, pray for and encourage our staff as they go through this time of change. Together, we can trust that God will work through the decisions and processes of this transition in the best way possible.
2) Lend a hand. If you are willing to lend a hand at one of the special events happening in the coming weeks, please volunteer to Lisa Chappell or Rev. Touchton. Be listening for additional opportunities to help Rev. Wade as he moves into his new office space.
3) Give a gift card. You are invited to give a gift card to your favorite a local restaurant or other local business to welcome Rev. Wade. We will have a basket at his reception to receive your cards.
4) Plan to attend the Welcome Reception for Rev. Rickey and Becky Wade this Sunday, July 12th, after worship. During this reception, there will be some creative opportunities for you and your family to help Rev. Wade and his family feel welcome in our church and community. This will be a special time you won’t want to miss!
Thank you for all you have already done to give your love and support to our pastors and staff. As we continue to move through this time of change, let’s join together to make it a fruitful time full of love and grace.
Josh Brown, Chair
St. Mark’s UMC Pastor/Parish Relations Team
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Milestones and Transitions
We are close to completing many milestones and changes happening in the life of the St. Mark’s church family. Thank you for your faithfulness and participation in each of these celebrations! Please continue to be in prayer for each person and situation involved, as well as our church as a whole.
If you are willing to assist with the celebration listed below, please volunteer to martha@stmarkstn.org.
May God bless St. Mark’s UMC as we continue to move forward for Christ!
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Save The Date:
Sunday, July 12th – Rev. Rickey Wade’s first Sunday preaching at St. Mark’s UMC, Reception following.
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The Parkinson Support Group will meet Wednesday, July 22, at 10:30 in Room 1203. Linda Tackett will share with us some of the spiritual implications of Parkinson.
The Sages will meet July 13, 9:30 AM in Room 503-505. Patti Brison will be there giving us flower arranging tips.
July 30 the SAGES we will stay in town and have lunch at Carrabas at 11:00. There will no bus. But rides will be provided if you need one - see Cindy or Connie.
And remember, each Monday SAGES deliver the Sunday altar flowers to our homebound and nursing home residents.
Our Communion Teams are scheduled to share communion with our homebound friends next on Sunday, August 2 or sometime during the following week.
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A Prayer for those serving in missions
We give thanks for those going to serve at Henderson Settlement in the coming week. Remember, this is a mission of the church, all those who help to fund, provide logistics, provide supplies, offer prayers, physically go, and who lift this work to the Throne of Grace by any means are part of this work and this team. We praise God for all the ways St. Mark’s is the hands and feet of Christ in the world!
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself: We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent in the power of the Spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations. We thank you that in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors, and that in every place your servants call upon your Name; for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours for ever. Amen. (BCP)
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Save the Date! - St. Mark's Community Blood Drive
One of the simplest ways we can share Christ's love with our neighbors is by giving the gift of life. St. Mark's United Methodist Church, in partnership with the American Red Cross, invites you to participate in our Community Blood Drive on Saturday, August 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary Foyer.
Every blood donation has the potential to help save multiple lives, bringing hope to patients undergoing surgery, receiving cancer treatments, recovering from accidents, and facing other medical emergencies. We invite you to prayerfully consider being part of this important ministry of compassion and care.
Please reserve your donation time today by clicking here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=stmarksmboro
Together through this partnership with the American Red Cross, our St. Mark's family can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
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Support the Mission Through Faithful Summer Giving
At St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, our mission of Making Disciples of Jesus Christ continues throughout every season of the year. Even during the slower pace of summer, the ministry of the church remains active through worship, children and youth programs, missions, pastoral care, and ongoing outreach to our community. While schedules change and many families travel during the summer months, the work of the church continues week after week.
Summer often brings a decline in attendance and giving, yet the financial responsibilities of the church remain steady. Ministry programs, mission commitments, staffing, and facility operations continue regardless of the season. Faithful giving during the summer helps ensure that St. Mark’s remains strong, stable, and fully engaged in serving others both within our congregation and throughout the community.
One of the easiest and most convenient ways to continue supporting the mission of the church while away is through our secure electronic giving system. Included are simple instructions for setting up a personal account, along with information outlining the many flexible ways financial gifts may be shared through St. Mark’s. If you have questions or would like assistance finding the giving option that works best for your situation, please contact Buddy Howell in the church office.
Thank you for your continued generosity and for the many ways you help sustain the life, ministry, and mission of St. Mark’s throughout the year!
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Flower Dates Available
The flowers on the altar each Sunday are available to be sponsored in honor of in memory of loved ones. To reserve a date, please call the church office or sign up on the Flower Calendar at the receptionist desk in the church office.
Each bouquet (there are two per Sunday) is $30 which can be paid by placing a check in the offering plate with "Flowers" on the memo line or contacting the church office for other arrangements.
The next available Sundays are:
August 9 (one bouquet)
August 30 (one bouquet)
September 20 (one or both bouquets)
September 27 (one or both bouquets)
Several more 2026 dates are available. Call the church office at 615-893-3455 for more information.
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Upcoming Calendar
Wednesday, July 8
Henderson Settlement Mission Trip - Wesley Van 2018
3:30 p.m. Chair Yoga - RM 1203
Thursday, July 9
Henderson Settlement Mission Trip - Wesley Van 2018
10:00 a.m. Quilting Bee - Banquet Room/Kitchen
10:30 a.m. Knit Together - RM 503/505
6:30 p.m. ACOA Meeting - RM 1203
Friday, July 10
Henderson Settlement Mission Trip - Wesley Van 2018
Office Closed Summer Fridays
10:00 a.m. Bible Study - RM 503/505
Saturday, July 11
8:00 a.m. Food Drive Through - Mission Team Building
8:30 a.m. AA Group - RM 503/505
Sunday, July 12
9:15 a.m. Christian Education
10:30 a.m. Worship - Sanctuary
11:30 a.m. Reception for Rev. Rickey Wade on his first Sunday preaching at St. Mark's - Narthex
2:00 p.m. Sewing Class - RM 503/505
5:00 Youth Messy Night - Philpott Field
Monday, July 13
9:30 a.m. SAGES Meeting - RM 503/505
10:00 a.m. Watercolor Class - Banquet Room
5:30 p.m. Big Book Group - RM 503/505
6:00 p.m. SPRC Meeting - RM 506
Tuesday, July 14
10:00 a.m. Mary Martha Circle - Chapel/RM 502
Wednesday, July 15
10:00 a.m. Staff Onboarding Event - RM 1203
3:30 p.m. Chair Yoga - RM 1203
5:00 p.m. Laity Onboarding Event - Narthex/Kitchen
Thursday, July 16
10:30 a.m. Knit Together - RM 503/505
6:30 p.m. ACOA Meeting - RM 503/505
Friday, July 17
Office Closed Summer Fridays
10:00 a.m. Bible Study - RM 503/505
Saturday, July 18
8:30 a.m. AA Group - RM 503/505
10:30 a.m. Woodworkers Potluck - Banquet Hall
Sunday, July 19
9:15 a.m. Christian Education
10:30 a.m. Worship - Sanctuary
11:30 a.m. Brave Women of Faith - Brunch & Brew Cafe
11:30 a.m. Flying Solo Fellowship Lunch
2:00 p.m. Sewing Class - RM 503/505
Monday, July 20
9:15 a.m. Project Transformation - Meet at Cumberland Presbyterian in Murfreesboro
10:00 a.m. Watercolor Class - Banquet Room B
5:30 p.m. Big Book Group - RM 503/505
Tuesday, July 21
9:15 a.m. Project Transformation - Meet at Cumberland Presbyterian in Murfreesboro
2:00 p.m. Staff Meeting - RM 503/505
12:00 p.m. Youth Lunch & Hike at Stone Door - Van 2018
Wednesday, July 22
9:15 a.m. Project Transformation - Meet at Cumberland Presbyterian in Murfreesboro
10:30 a.m. Parkinson's Support Group - RM 503/505
3:30 p.m. Chair Yoga - RM 1203
6:00 p.m. Children & Youth Meet & Greet with Rev. Rickey & Becky Wade - the Mitchell's
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