Castle Christian Blog

Gayle Surgery Went Well

2012-01-26T17:38:00.002-05:00

Gayle Darragh has asked us to tell everyone thank you for all the prayers. Her surgery went well and she is recovering.

Please don't forget to bring DRYER SHEETS this week!

ALSO, we are going to have a special service this week. It will be one you won't want to miss. Join us as we celebrate the Lord's Supper with Jesus!

Prayer request and valuable information

2012-01-17T16:39:00.002-05:00

Karen Turner asks that we put Bill's mother, Martha Turner, on our prayer list. She had surgery on the 12th and had part of her lung removed because of lung cancer. She's been in ICU since the surgery as her blood pressure dropped and her sodium levels are low. They also suspect she might have pneumonia. Please remember Martha and her children, Patty, Larry and Bill.

Doris Richardson wanted everyone to know that Dollar General has 2 quart bottles of detergent for $1.00. She said it's located right in the front of the store on the right. Clark Howard had recommended their cleaning products and she went and checked it out. This information might come in handy for our current support drive.

Judy Ware's brother

2012-01-12T09:01:00.003-05:00

Judy and Tim made if home safely, but got news this morning that her brother has passed away. They're heading back out to Missouri so please pray for their travel and for their family. Judy asked that everyone know how much your prayers and support have been appreciated.

Don't Forget Detergent Sunday

2012-01-05T09:40:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone,

Don't forget that this Sunday we are collecting detergent for those in our community who cannot afford it. Specifically we are supporting the local Boys' and Girls' homes which often receive clothing donations, but also need donations of daily supply type items.

So, please bring laundry detergent--SPECIFICALLY detergent labled HE (High Efficiency).

Thanks, and see you Sunday!

Jason

Sunday's Meal

2011-12-22T09:29:00.002-05:00

From Trish Earhart:

"If you are planning on dropping off or helping to serve: food, water, or juice (small bottles) please email (tricia@earhartbunch.com) or call Tricia (678) 794-8760. Our needs are cases of water, cases of small bottles of juice, any food dishes particularly things that travel in to-go boxes well, rolls, potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, desert items. Again keep in mind many meals will be delivered in to-go containers.

We have posted our flyers all around town and delivered them to the individuals receiving food at the First Christian Food Bank as well as many others. In our efforts to bless others, so many have offered God's blessings to us for what we are desiring to do. So far it has been a bit like the Crosswalk where folks are just inspired by the idea that people are interested in loving and serving others. People standing in line for food and warm clothes saying, "God Bless you -- to me", it just doesn't get much better than that.

I know for certain that we have a list of 75 people to serve and our goal is 200. "

We will try to begin serving at 1:30 pm. This should give you time to run home after church, eat lunch and heat (if needed) whatever you are planning on bringing. We'll need people to make deliveries, box up "to go" meals and people to serve those that might come to the facility. Does anyone have a CD player they could bring so that we might play Christmas music as people eat or as we work, whichever the case may be? Please let Trish know of your plans and level of participation.

Judy Ware's brother

2011-12-12T12:29:00.002-05:00

Judy has asked for prayer for her brother and his family. He has taken a turn for the worse and things are looking pretty bleak. Please pray for his situation and the people touched by it.

Big Day Tomorrow

2011-12-09T12:59:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder of the church activities for tomorrow:

Men's prayer breakfast at Golden Corral at 9:00 a.m.

Fireman Appreciation - at the church at 11:00 a.m. Bring your baked goods

Women's Christmas Celebration - Anne Foster's home at 2:00 p.m. Bring a dessert and let Anne know if you're planning on attending so she can make plans for supplies for the ornament making. 678-965-6743 or mdtoga@yahoo.com

Arrangements for Dick Richardson's service

2011-12-05T20:27:00.002-05:00

Dick's service will be at Ingram's tomorrow at 6:30 pm. Visitation will be from 5:00 until the service. Also, Doris has agreed to accepting some food for the family. Since this is late notice there is no time to organize so if you want to bring something please bring it to Ingram's tomorrow and Ben will make sure it gets to Doris' home.

We have lost him

2011-12-03T10:44:00.002-05:00

Doris says that Dick passed away peacefully at 8:48 last night. She said he just went to sleep. Arrangements will be posted as soon as they become available.

Church Events

2011-12-02T15:04:00.002-05:00

There are many upcoming events to mark on your calendars this month.

December 10, 2011 - 9:00 a.m. - Men's breakfast at Golden Corral.

December 10, 2011 - 11:00 a.m. - We will gather at the Kiwanis Building in order to create our baskets for the firefighters of Forsyth County. If you signed up to bake two dozen cookies or cupcakes or brownies or candies, bring them to the Kiwanis Building at 11:00. We'll make the platters and deliver them to the fire stations. We still need some volunteers to make deliveries so the sign up sheet will be at the church again this Sunday. It's also not too late if you want to add your baked goodies to this event. Just sign up this Sunday.

December 10, 2011 - 2:00 p.m. - Ladies' Christmas get together at Anne Foster's home. There will be ornament making, karaoke and desserts (please bring a dessert if you can). Please RSVP to Anne at 678-965-6743 so she can plan for how many supplies to have available.

Kathie Copeland's mother

2011-11-11T13:03:00.002-05:00

Kathie has asked for prayer for her 85 year old mother, who fell yesterday and broke her right hip. The doctors have put off surgery until tomorrow because of her age and history of heart problems. Her name is Irma Mathews. Please pray for Kathie's mother and for Kathie. Hospital waits can be so very tiring.

Dick and Doris Richardson

2011-11-10T10:10:00.001-05:00

Dick was admitted to Northside Hospital in Atlanta yesterday. He is declining rapidly and hospice is being arranged for him. Please keep Dick, Doris and their family in your prayers.

Updates and reminders

2011-11-03T08:55:00.005-04:00

Dick and Doris were very touched by the card and flowers and wanted everyone to know that they missed us and appreciate the show of love and support.

Don't forget Patti, Hannah and Sarah in the coming weeks as they adjust to life without Dan. They'll still need our love, prayers and support.

Move your clocks back this Saturday night or you'll be sitting in the parking lot waiting for an hour before church begins and it's COLD now.

See you Sunday morning.

Services for Dan Fuller

2011-10-24T12:50:00.000-04:00

Funeral services for Dan Fuller will be on Wednesday, Oct. 26. Ingram Funeral Home. www.ingramfuneralhome.com, 210 Ingram Ave., Cumming, GA 30040. 770-887-2388. Visitation from 3:00 to 6:00 and service at 6:30. Dan will be cremated. In lieu of flowers, we request a donation to one of our two favorite (and worthy) charities: Armor 4 Troops Foundation, www.armor4troops.org, 1426 Town Lake Pkwy, Suite 102-222, Woodstock, GA 30189, 770-592-8714 or Safari Club Int'l GA Chapter, www.gasci.org, Safari Wish Program, 1108 Van Buren Rd., Barnesville, GA 30204-3176, 770-757-2369.

Update on food for the Fullers

2011-10-24T10:55:00.003-04:00

Here's what we have so far. As you can see we still need some "fillers" for Wednesday lunch (potato salad perhaps or potato chips) some additional desserts, tea or cokes. Let me know what you can do. Thanks, Jan

Tonight (have items at church parking lot on Monday 10/24/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

Chicken/dressing casserole
Sweet potato soufflé
Squash casserole

Tuesday lunch (have items at church parking lot on Monday 10/24/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

Lasagna
Salad
Bread

Tuesday night (have items at church parking lot on Tuesday 10/25/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

Pot Roast
Mashed Potatoes
Salad
Dessert

Wednesday lunch (have items at church parking lot on Tuesday 10/25/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

BBQ Pork Roast Sandwiches

Wednesday night (have items at church parking lot on Wednesday 10/26/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

Anne Foster

Thursday lunch (have items at church parking lot on Wednesday 10/26/2011 by 5:00 p.m.)

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Food for the Fuller family

2011-10-24T08:25:00.002-04:00

There will be folks coming in from out of town for Dan's service and Patti could use some help with feeding them. If you are able to make a dish or two for the Fuller family, please let Jan Abernathy know via email ben_a@bellsouth.net or at 770-889-1526.

Jan will need to know what you plan to prepare and when you can have it ready. We'll try to arrange a pickup time at the church parking lot each evening at 5:00 p.m. and Jan or anyone that wants to can make the delivery to Patti.

This evening will be covered with a chicken/dressing and a sweet potato casserole. If you can have a vegetable or salad dish and a dessert for tonight, let Jan know ASAP.

Please keep this family in your prayers.

Dan Fuller

2011-10-23T00:47:00.002-04:00

It is with heavy heart that we must inform you of the sudden passing of our Christian brother, Dan Fuller. Dan suffered a massive heart attack on Saturday, 10/22/2011 around 9:00 pm. He would have been 55 on Tuesday.

Arrangements will be posted when they are finalized. Please pray for Patti, Sarah, Hanna and Ziggy in their sudden loss.

Damian Darragh

2011-10-19T14:41:00.001-04:00

Damian had to have an emergency appendectomy. Please pray for his complete and uneventful recovery. He is doing well at this point.

Prayer request and help request

2011-10-18T20:33:00.002-04:00

From Judy Ware:

To my Castle Christian family: Please pray for Hollis tonight as he is fighting pneumonia still. This is the young man we have been praying for. .. he needs your prayers now.

Also, does anyone know how to reach Victoria Taylor? She visited our church several times when we were at the Duluth location and we're not sure if she knew of our move to the Kiwanis Building. If you happen to know how to reach her, would you please let Ben or Jason know? Thanks and don't forget to be in prayer for Hollis and his family.

First Christian Food Pantry

2011-10-16T22:03:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone,

Today Roger requested prayer for the First Christian Food Pantry, which is having difficulty keeping up with the need of those coming to them for help. He also suggested that beyond prayer, we also take it upon ourselves to help. Please bring non-perishable food items this Sunday, such as cans, boxed food, etc. for the First Christian Food Pantry. This is a great way for us to express the kingdom teaching we've learned from Jesus these past few years!

Jason

Dick Richardson

2011-10-07T09:29:00.001-04:00

Got an email from Doris this morning and Dick is in the hospital with pneumonia. She said he is very, very sick. Don't know which hospital, but please be in prayer for this sweet couple. We'll make updates as we can.

Prayer request

2011-08-31T08:45:00.004-04:00

Anne Foster has asked for prayer for a family that she knows through the school where she works. Their car was hit by a truck yesterday morning and the children were seriously injured.

Please lift this family in prayer as well as the truck driver.

Debbie Whigham / Sherri Schoolcraft

2011-08-29T16:49:00.002-04:00

Debbie's grandson was involved in a boating accident and missing for several hours. Update from Debbie: "I received word from my son, Chris, a little while ago that they had gound Trevor Aaron Jones, my grandson. Please keep Amy, Chris, Noah, Emily and the entire family in your prayers for awhile. Thank you God for bringing this child into our lives but I guess you needed another sweet soul to be with you. I love you, Trevor, and I will miss you more than words can say!"

Also many of you may remember Brooks and Sherri Schoolcraft. Sherri's brother, Ray Chaffin, was killed in a motorcycle accident this past Sunday.

Please keep these people in your thoughts and prayers.

Last Sunday at Our Current Location AND Stuff that has to GO!

2011-08-26T21:29:00.004-04:00

Just a reminder that this Sunday is our LAST at our current location. NEXT Sunday we will be meeting at the Kiwanis building at the park in Cumming.

We have several items in the back of the sanctuary at church that need to go. There are some folding tables, a television, many plants, some furniture, etc. We are asking if any of you want it to just make a donation (whatever you can afford).

If you think you might want something at the church, please bring the largest vehicle you have this Sunday so you can take it with you. Also, we may need to do some physical work after church, so come dressed down!

Thanks and see you Sunday!

Jason

Update on Dick Richardson

2011-08-21T18:19:00.002-04:00

Prayers are in order for our brother, Dick Richardson. He has developed an infection in the urinary tract and the stent that was put in may have to be removed. Please pray that the infection will clear readily and that the stent will be able to remain in place. Also, as a side effect from the chemo, he has some numbness in his left hand. Please ask that this may resolve. Doris reports that overall they are doing well and are thankful for the prayer support.

Prayer request

2011-08-17T09:53:00.001-04:00

Anne Foster's mother was admitted to the hospital yesterday with two blood clots in her lung. Please remember her and her family in prayer.

Men's Breakfast This Saturday

2011-08-04T11:46:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone,

I forgot to mention that we had planned a men's breakfast this Saturday at 9:00 at Golden Corral.

Avon Connelly

2011-08-04T09:54:00.001-04:00

Avon fell and broke her arm. She will be seeing a specialist today to see if surgery is going to be needed. Please keep Avon in your prayers.

IMMEDIATE PRAYER NEED

2011-07-29T09:05:00.002-04:00

Mike Earhart's mother is in the hospital possibly with internal bleeding issues. She is undergoing an MRI at the moment and Mike has asked for prayer. Let's join together and raise Mrs. Earhart in prayer.

Church Meeting

2011-07-27T00:39:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone,

Those of you who were at church Sunday and participated in our church meeting learned about our new opportunity. We've been learning about Jesus' mustard seed kingdom and that he challenges us to be a very different kind of church--one that looks insignificant next to the world's ways of measuring what is successful.

Part of that meeting was devoted to an opportunity we have to move to another location. This one is a little smaller and a little more humble than the place we are in. It is also much more cost-effective and affords us the opportunity to use what resources we have more wisely--to minister more effectively to those around us. The opportunity is to move to the Kiwanis building at the downtown park in Cumming.

If you were at the meeting we announced that we would not be able to take the prime time slot on Sunday, but would have to meet at a different time. However, that has changed! We now will have the building from 9-12 on Sunday mornings! We will also have it on Tuesdays and Saturdays for our men's meetings.

There was more discussed, such as the mustard seed worship model and mustard seed leadership structure. I hope to have the entire discussion uploaded on our podcast for any of you who missed it very soon. Please check back on our website for more details. I hope to have it updated very soon.

I admit, even though it doesn't make sense to folks who haven't been as immersed in the gospel as we have, I'm more excited about these changes than I've been about any we've made thus far at Castle. We're on the cusp of doing something very...insignificant! Very mustard seed...very kingdom.

Breakfast at the Castle

2011-07-21T09:46:00.002-04:00

Anne Foster has graciously volunteered to set up tables each week for us to resume our fellowship breakfast time together. Everyone is encouraged to bring a dish or two for the weekly meal. Tables will be set up in the back of the sanctuary for that purpose.

Update on Alan Whigham

2011-07-20T09:23:00.002-04:00

From Debbie Whigham:

Alan is now in room 4107 @ NE GA Medical Center in the Inpatient Rehabilitation part. His improvement has slowed some but hopefully being there it will pick back up. Visitors can come Monday - Friday between 4-8 pm and anytime on the weekend. Thanks for the prayers and please continue to pray for a speedy and complete recovery. Thanks!

Special Church Meeting

2011-07-11T20:44:00.003-04:00

We will be having a special church meeting during the service on Sunday, July 24. Please plan on being in attendance!

Thanks!

Jason

Prayer request

2011-07-11T12:52:00.002-04:00

Karen Turner has asked for prayer for her mother and step-father, Bill and Betty Jo Singletary. Bill is in the hospital and undergoing some heart testing. The Cardiologist suspects he has a blockage. Let's pray for our brother and sister in Christ.

IMMEDIATE PRAYER NEED

2011-07-08T11:53:00.002-04:00

From Debbie Whigham:

Alan was admitted into ICU @ Northside/Forsyth this morning. He has had a stroke that is affecting his right side. They are watching him very closely because he has a bleed in his brain that cannot be operated on very safely. They are trying to take care of it with medication at this time. He is in room 2016.

Special Announcements

2011-06-15T10:15:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone,

Trish wanted me to tell you that Mikey Earhart is graduating from high school and Lanier Technical College this weekend. The ceremony and celebration are at 6:30 pm this Saturday at the Earhart ranch. Everyone is welcome.

Also, don't forget about the men's breakfast this Saturday at 9:00 at the Golden Coral in Cumming.

Thanks,

Jason

Urgent Need for God's Ministry in LaGonave

2011-06-01T13:27:00.003-04:00

Hey Castlers,

Talked to Laura Dalla yesterday and she said the ministry is in need of one more sponsored child to make budget this month.

It only costs $50 a YEAR to sponsor one child. That needs to be paid up front.

If you can sponsor a child in Bela Vie, please make a check out to God's Ministry in La Gonave and send it to 1730 Hampton Pass, Douglasville, GA 30134. Write "sponsorship" in the memo line.

OR you can go to the website ( http://godsministryinlagonave.org/Resources.html ) and donate online. Just be sure to specify in the message area that it is for a sponsor. Anything not specified as a sponsor will be considered a general donation.

Also, if you sponsor a child, please let me know and I will contact Laura. She will send a picture of the child you are sponsoring by email.

Thanks for considering this!

Jason

Guest Speaker

2011-05-15T21:51:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone,

I just wanted to tell you all about two special treats we will be having the next two weeks.

First, Laura Clancy Dalla is in town and will be with us NEXT SUNDAY (the 22nd) to share more about her ministry in LaGonave. I gave her the $1000 that we raised from the Crosswalk and she wanted to come and tell us about the ministry.
My good friend Josh Stucki is going to come the following weekend to visit me. I haven't seen him in about 5 years, and am looking forward to our visit. One of the reasons I am glad he is coming is that he has agreed to preach that Sunday (the 29th). Josh is a great guy, great friend, and a wonderful speaker and I am just thrilled to share him with you and you with him.

Thanks everyone! See you next Sunday!

Jason

Prayer and Praise

2011-05-10T16:59:00.003-04:00

From Larry and Susan Deckard:

'Tillman Jace Deckard was born today (5/9/20110) at 1:53 PM, weighing 8 lbs 2 ozs and 22 inches long. Adam said, 'I have my starting center' and with Trevan as his starting "Point Guard", I figure they need three more for their 'starting five'. Momma, dad, big brother and baby are all strong and healthy."

From Debbie Whigham:

Her good friend, Beverly Salisbury, passed away this past Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. Debbie asks that you remember Beverly's family in prayer.

Ben Abernathy in Hospital

2011-05-03T15:07:00.001-04:00

Let's be in prayer for Ben Abernathy. He is checking into the hospital today for pneumonia.

Also, I've heard that Dick Richardson is restarting chemotherapy.

Be praying for both of these and so many more who are suffering.

Jason

2011-04-22T09:44:00.003-04:00

Cross Walk THIS WEEK!

2011-04-17T14:12:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone,

An UPDATE: I said in church today that we would start at 4:30. However there are some folks for whom that time is too late. So rather than leaving at 4:30, we will be leaving at 3:30.

We'll be leaving from the same place: the Tyson parking lot downtown.

Don't forget to keep looking for people to sponsor us in this endeavor to raise funds for God's Ministry in LaGonave.

Thanks, and we hope to see you there!

Jason

Dick Richardson's surgery today

2011-04-06T16:55:00.003-04:00

Dick is back home and being cared for by his favorite nurse (Doris). All went well as his care has been returned to the urologists. Please continue to lift this family in prayer.

Dick Richardson's surgery

2011-04-05T16:26:00.002-04:00

Just got word from Doris that Dick's surgery has been moved up to tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. at the main Northside Hospital campus. Please be in prayer for them and try to remember Dick tomorrow morning at 10:00.

Update on Dick and Doris Richardson

2011-04-04T14:13:00.002-04:00

Dick's cancer has returned and there is a mass in his bladder. The doctors are going to be placing a stent in his bladder this Friday. Doris asks for prayers as there is concern with the anesthesia and his emphysema. This should be an outpatient procedure and hopefully he'll be able to return home the same day. Please be in prayer for this upcoming procedure and remember our Christian family members, the Richardsons each time you talk with God in prayer. It was great to have the Chapmans back with us this past Sunday, but don't forget to remember Barbara in your prayers as well as she continues to recover.

Cross Walk Update

2011-04-02T22:42:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone,

Just a reminder that our Crosswalk is Good Friday, April 22. This is only about 20 short days away.

We've collected, thus far, about $200 in online donations. It's pretty easy for people to donate online. We have several links directly from our website to the God's Ministry in LaGonave website and the donate button.

Please be working to find sponsors for this important ministry!

Jason

Foster Family Service Update

2011-03-29T14:22:00.001-04:00

Got this update on Anne about Mike Foster's father's ceremony.

On Thursday, March 31st from 4 to 7 pm, there will be visitation of family and friends. On Friday, April 1st, there will be a memorial service at 2:00. These will be held at The Roswell Funeral Home. Thank you. Anne

Mike Foster's Father Update

2011-03-28T22:08:00.001-04:00

Just got word that Mike Foster's father, Buford, passed away this evening around 9:45. Please be praying for the family. We'll let you know when we get word on service info. Jason

Update on Mike Foster's Father

2011-03-26T17:34:00.001-04:00

The family has learned today that there is extensive bleeding in Mike's father's brain and will be moved to a hospice facility. Please pray for Mike's father and the family.

Prayer need

2011-03-25T17:20:00.001-04:00

From Mike Foster:

Just wanted to pass along that my Dad had a stroke last night and is at North Fulton Hospital. The outlook in not good. He has lost most of the movement in his right arm and most of his speech. Please keep him in your prayers.

Bible Study Ideas

2011-03-21T14:36:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone,

I'm planning on re-instituting our Wednesday evening Bible study. I've asked around and it looks like a late start would be good--perhaps around 7:00 pm. I'm looking at starting this in April.

If you go to our blog (click here) there are is a survey about the possible topics. I have two ideas.

Idea 1 would be a fairly in-depth, but devotional, study of the book of James (one of my favorite books). This would involve some online content through the week and would be fairly interactive. It would be a "listening post" style exercise, where we have some exercises through the week and meet together to talk about them and reflect on the passage.

Idea 2 would be a much more scholarly type of thing. I'm interested in doing a class on interpreting the Bible. I teach a class on this at Atlanta Christian College. If we do this one, we may be required to purchase a book and do homework. This one would be more involved, but would definitely be worth the time.

Please go to the blog (click here) and let me know ASAP!

Jason

Bake Sale Reminder

2011-03-18T14:43:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone,

Don't forget our bake sale to support the Cross Walk and God's Ministry in LaGonave this Sunday!

Bring your baked goods and prepare to take some home!

Jason

Daylight Savings Time

2011-03-11T09:33:00.002-05:00

SPRING AHEAD MARCH 13, 2011. Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday morning at 2:00 a.m. Turn your clocks ahead by one hour before you go to bed Saturday night, otherwise you'll be late for church and you'll be missed.

Happy Day

2011-03-09T18:37:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday Jason and Jack Benny on their 39th birthday and Christian (not on his 39th)
Happy Birthday to you

AND MANY MORE!!!!

Sung to the tune of Happy Birthday with a really long third line.

Cross Walk Email

2011-03-06T14:45:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone,

I was talking to a couple of folks after service today about the Crosswalk and saying that I'd already been able to raise a little money by sending an email to the people I work with at the college. They asked that I send everyone what I put in my email. So here it is! I recommend pasting the content below into your own email and sending it to people you know. You can also change it to suit your own contacts better.

Hello friends and colleagues,

Two years ago my church, Castle Christian Church, started an event called the “Crosswalk.” On Good Friday we take turns carrying a large cross through downtown Cumming. It is a way for us to literally live out Jesus’ command to “pick up our cross and follow.” It also leads well into our Easter celebration on Sunday. We carry the cross through town, stop at the end, take communion, have a devotional service, and commemorate Jesus’ crucifixion by nailing nails into the cross. On Easter, we celebrate the empty cross and the empty tomb. It’s been covered by the local newspaper both years. This year will be our third year.

When we started we decided we don’t just want the event to be symbolic. We want to also bear a real burden for the world. So each year we’ve used the event to raise money or resources for a community need. The first year we benefitted HomeAid Atlanta. The second, a sister church’s food bank. This year we want to benefit God’s Ministry in LaGonave.

God’s Ministry in LaGonave is a ministry involving Laura Clancy-Dalla, a friend of our church. Laura is now a missionary in Haiti, married to YBene Dalla. They are currently working to build a school for the children of Belle-vie on the Haitian island of LaGonave.

I’m writing to you to ask you to consider sponsoring me in the Crosswalk. We are trying to raise around $3000 for this exceptional cause. If you’d like to sponsor me, just respond to this email and let me know. You can also go directly to this website: http://godsministryinlagonave.org/Resources.html and click the “donate” button to sponsor us online. In that process, I’m told there’ll be an opportunity to indicate that you are sponsoring me in the crosswalk.

To learn more about our event and our goal go to: http://castlechristian.com/good-friday-cross-walk/. Thank you for considering sponsoring me!

Thanks!
Jason

Updates

2011-03-05T17:30:00.002-05:00

Judy Ware asks for prayers for her brother, Jim Carter. He is now facing an infection in his foot and bone with possible amputation of that foot. Her brother is very discouraged and needs our prayers.

Jeff Hollis is back in the hospital with three blood clots in his lungs following surgery for the kidney cancer. They have also discovered a "spot" on his lung. Jeff and Leslie need prayer as well.

Cross Walk

2011-03-01T09:51:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone!

I want to encourage you to begin raising money for God's Ministry in LaGonave, our Crosswalk beneficiary this year.

One easy way to ask folks to donate money is to send people a link to our Crosswalk page on our website and ask them to donate whatever they would like to that ministry using one of the links on that page. That link is http://castlechristian.com/good-friday-cross-walk/. When they donate they'll be able to enter "cross walk" on the paypal form.

Also, don't forget to pick up copies of the sponsor sheet that you can take with you. These are in the back of the worship area at our church. We only have a few short months to reach our goal of $3000 for the school in Bela Vie.

This Sunday

2011-02-24T09:45:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone,

I just want to send out a message about this coming Sunday. I'm planning a special message--different from the normal style and a lot more introspective. I'm hoping that many of us who've been through so much of this Matthew series will be there because we're going to ask some really important questions.

ALSO: don't forget to pick up your crosswalk info this Sunday and get started finding sponsors for this year's event!

Thanks!

Jason

Cross Walk This Year

2011-02-07T09:40:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone!

I just want to update you on the status of the Cross Walk. This year we're going to support God's Ministry in La Gonave. Our goal is to raise money for the new school in Bella Vie.

I'm including a link to Laura Dalla's new website. People can donate via the website. Also, this Sunday we'll have handouts and sponsor sheets for you to take.

Here is the website: http://www.godsministryinlagonave.org. You can also go to our own website http://www.castlechristian.com and click the "Cross Walk" link to get to Laura's website.

Thanks!

Jason

Urgent Prayer Request

2011-02-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

Got this from Kathy Umberger today:

I talked to Bonnie Ford today, she asked to please put the Armes in our Prayers. Travis Armes and his wife are expecting a baby boy in 5 mos and they have just learned he has two holes in his heart. They are praying that these holes will close on their own. For those that do not know the Armes, Gary, Travis' father was the Sr. Minister at First Christian when most of us attended.

Please remember the family in your prayers.

Carry in meal for the Deckards

2011-02-03T11:40:00.002-05:00

APPRECIATION CARRY IN MEAL FOR LARRY AND SUSAN DECKARD: Next Sunday, 02/13/2011 following our morning worship service, we will show our appreciation and love for the Deckards as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

Anne Foster (678-965-6743) has graciously agreed to coordinate the event. She will need help with set up and clean up as well as providing food for the meal. If every family will bring enough to feed their own family, there should be more than enough food. This includes a main dish and side dishes. Anne will provide the drinks and a cake.

This is not a good-bye, but rather, a thank you to the Deckards for their sacrifice, dedication and service to the Lord.

Michael Foster's Father Update

2011-02-01T20:58:00.000-05:00

Got this message from Lorie today:

Michael called me today around 1pm and said his dad made it out of surgery and everything went well. He's in recovery. He thanked everyone for their prayers.

Lorie Short's Uncle

2011-02-01T14:01:00.000-05:00

Just got this update from Lorie:

My uncle's having surgery today. They were supposed to start at 5am. It will probably take most of the day. He's having a valve replaced and 2 stints replaced/fixed that are blocked. Mom went to the hospital yesterday and saw Aunt Catherine. She was in a daze, she said. Mom will go by tonight and see how things are going. Thanks for all your prayers. His name is Edward Washburn and the surgery is at a hospital in Spartanburg, SC.

Pics from our Children's Dedication Sunday

2011-01-31T20:32:00.002-05:00

Prayer Request for Lorie Short's Uncle

2011-01-30T18:28:00.000-05:00

Got this today from Lorie:

Please pray for my Uncle Edward. He's 80 yrs old, has a defibrillator/pacemaker, & just found out he has a bad valve that needs replacing. He has to have this done. They're doing the surgery Tues or Wed. He's been in the hospital since Fri, when his defibrillator kept going off. This is my uncle that I am closest to. He & Aunt Catherine practically raised me during high school in NC. He's my mom's brother-in-law. Thank you.

Lorie

A Note from Laura (Clancy) Dalla

2011-01-30T15:23:00.003-05:00

Many of you will remember Laura Clancy, who came to tell us about her mission to Haiti several weeks ago. This year our Cross-Walk will benefit her ministry in La Gonave. She sent me this email and asked me to communicate it to you:

Hey y'all!! I am back in the states until Feb 18. I was hoping to come up to visit you all again before going back but time will not permit. Thank you all so much for your prayers and for the monetary support that has come through your church. I am almost finished with our web site and will be adding your church as one of our supporters. I really can't thank you enough. I am now happily married and my husband is well and sends his love and thanks, too, as I have told him about you.

Please keep praying for my health and for the provision for this Feb. trip. Wilto will be coming this time and my nurse friend Sue. She has much needed meds that she is bringing. But more than anything we need to have between $800 and $1000 to buy the land to begin building the new school. This plot of land will be big enough for the school, clinic, and the orphanage!! We have three weeks until we leave and I am believing in God for this miracle. I am confident that we will have our 501 c 3 status this year, but if any of you feel like giving for the land you may continue to give through your church. We are reaching out to everyone that we can for this immediate request and every little bit will help. I would like to come back to see you all when I return in May or April. If you haven't found me yet on face book please do. I have many great pictures up now. I also have pictures of all the children for sponsorships!! Glenn says hey too!!!!! Thanks again and I love you all. May God bless you more and more!!!

Love,

Laura Dalla

Please write "Land" in the memo line of the check!!

God's Ministry in La Gonave, Inc
1730 Hampton Pass
Douglasville GA 30134

Save the Date

2011-01-20T11:36:00.003-05:00

We're having a special dedication ceremony on Sunday, January 30 for several children who have been and are involved with our church. It's going to be a special Sunday!

Jason

Jeff and Leslie Hollis

2011-01-19T17:51:00.003-05:00

Many of you remember Jeff and Leslie Hollis. Jeff is having outpatient surgery in the morning to remove 4 to 6 kidney stones from his left kidney. He has asked for prayer. After a week with a stint, the doctor will determine if the left kidney is healthy enough for them to proceed with the removal of a cancer from the right kidney that was discovered.

Please remember our brother and sister in Christ as you pray.

Update on Dick Richardson

2011-01-17T21:05:00.001-05:00

From Bud and Betsy:

Just heard from Doris. Dick is still in the hospital and doesn't know when he can come home. Doris has been staying down there with him, but came home last night. They got the blood stopped yesterday and he sat up on the edge of the bed for the 1st time. He seemed a little stronger and appetite improved. They are thankful for the prayers and offer of meals, but don't want any meals. Also requested again, no visitors.

Prayers needed

2011-01-13T08:33:00.002-05:00

Dick Richardson is back in the hospital still suffering with bleeding issues. Please remember Dick and Doris as you pray.

Mike Foster's father had to postpone his visit to the specialist because of the road conditions. Mike asks us to remember him in prayer too as his father's heart condition remains a threat.

Please lift these families in prayer every day.

Good news from Doris

2011-01-09T18:19:00.001-05:00

From Doris:

Hey! Got Dick home, lunched, & he had a shower and got into clean clothes and clean bed and looks like he is off to dreamland. All for now, have so much catchup to do.

Bye for now,

Doris & Dick

Update - Dick Richardson

2011-01-08T04:13:00.002-05:00

From Doris:

Hi everyone. Dick has been bleeding heavily from the bladder since last night, filling a depend to soaking every 30 min. Our Urologist's nurse called this morning wanting a report on Dick and when I answered all her questions she said, "Honey, you need to hang up and dial 911 and tell them to take Mr. Richardson to the nearest hospital." So here came the fire truck & ambulance and my next door neighbor, Julie, in her pajamas and she told me that I was not driving down to the hospital. She dashed home, put on clothes & drove me down. Of course Dick and I waited forever. Got in there at 9:30 and the Dr. didn't get in there until 5:30 this afternoon. Don't really know anything yet. They are keeping him overnight and may keep him longer but the Dr. thinks he may give him a blood transfusion tomorrow and I hope they do to give him a boost. He is just not up to visitors, hasn't had any sleep for several nights and will nap every chance he gets.
They have him on all kinds of monitors so I felt like he was being watched close enough that I could come home.
Bye for now, Love, Doris.

Immediate Prayer Need

2011-01-07T10:22:00.001-05:00

Dick Richardson is experiencing extreme weakness this morning and Doris has called 911 for him. Please pray for this couple and we'll issue updates as we obtain them.

Update on Dick Richardson

2011-01-04T17:46:00.002-05:00

It turns out Dick did not have a bladder infection, but rather, a broken blood vessel, which they cauterized. They found out today that Dick's PSA jumped from 14.53 to 68.28. They fear that perhaps, the cancer is back. Surgery would be risky with Dick's breathing problems. Doris asks for prayer.

Let's pray for them both.

Barbara Chapman and Dick Richardson

2011-01-02T17:42:00.002-05:00

Reports from Barbara Chapman tell us that she is gaining strength each day and even managing some walking from her hip surgery.

Doris informed us that Dick has developed a very severe bladder infection. She was able to get him to the doctor's office on Friday and they immediately put him on antibiotics. He is doing somewhat better, but he will be seeing a Urologist this week to make sure there is nothing more going on.

Please remember these lovely couples of our church in your prayers.

Brent Eichler

2010-12-30T16:11:00.002-05:00

Brent has had to have several surgeries on that cyst at the tip of his spine referred to as "Jeep Seat". He has had two surgeries already in Afghanistan and then was flown to Germany for more surgery, then back to Maryland for even more surgery. He is still in extreme pain and the wound is not closing up properly. Dennis and Susan have brought him home, but he is unable to have visitors at this time. However, prayer is always appreciated. Susan will be taking him back to Ft. Campbell in a couple of weeks.

Please remember this family in your prayers and let's ask for Brent's healing.

Instructions for The Place Service Opportunity

2010-12-28T22:56:00.001-05:00

We are on their website calendar: http://www.theplaceofforsyth.com/calendar.html

Whoever would like to participate please be at the Place no later than 11:00 if you'd like to serve and 12:30 if you'd like to help clean up. We have plenty of chicken, rolls, and salad. I know that someone is bringing a couple of gallons of sweet tea and someone else will be bringing a couple of vegetable dishes. Please bring whatever you would like to share with the folks that come for a noon time meal. We are going to pick up some deserts from BJ's unless someone calls me and says they'd like to bring desert. We raised enough money to purchase deserts so no worries! See you there.

Tricia

Dec 26 Weather

2010-12-25T19:03:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone,

It's been a pretty white Christmas evening! Of course, that means that the roads might be fairly slick in the morning. Here's the current plan:

We're planning on HAVING SERVICE on December 26. If you feel the roads are not safe where you live, please don't try to trek out. However, if you can make it to church, we are still going to have church!

Thanks!

Jason

Death of Eddie Taylor

2010-12-17T11:36:00.001-05:00

Kathy Umberger sent me this. Many of us know Eddie Taylor and his family.

McDonald Funeral home will receive friends and family on Saturday from 5-9pm
The funeral will be at Mountain Lake Community Church on Hwy 9 at Coal Mountain on Sunday at 3:00

Please keep the Family especially his daughters, Kendra Rich and Seneca Taylor.

Christmas Meal Help

2010-12-14T10:31:00.000-05:00

Trish is requesting help for the Christmas meal at the Place on 12/29. If you can help, please contact her.

Thanks!

Jason

Upcoming Stuff!

2010-12-12T16:14:00.002-05:00

Hey gang,

With the holidays in full swing, there are a few items we need to keep everyone updated on.

The New Life Church is having a New Year's party that we are invited to attend. It will last well through the night--until 4:30 AM! Of course, you can stay as long as you like. They've invited us and it sounds like it would be a great time.
We are still needing volunteers to help clean the building. The worship area needs vacuuming. Even if you can only volunteer once a month, we still need the help. Please contact Sherry Lizotte if you can help.
We are planning on having a church meeting in January, on the 16th to discuss a new budget, focus for the church, this year's Cross Walk event, and some new items. Please plan on being there for that.

Thanks everyone for a great Sunday!

Jason

New Christmas Series

2010-12-04T15:06:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone,

Just a note that we're doing a different series for Christmas during December. I've got a message planned for tomorrow that I'm really excited about.

Hope to see you there!

Jason

Update on Dick Richardson

2010-11-29T15:57:00.002-05:00

From Doris Richardson:

"Dear Ones,

Just wanted to give you an update. Dick is finally getting back on his feet, just couldn't stand and could just walk a few feet. Don't know why his legs took on so much weakness. He seems to be over the pneumonia, but we are being very cautious. He has been taking limited exercise but runs out of breath so fast, but he gets his breath and goes right back to it. We can sure see improvement as he doesn't have to use the shower bench anymore and can do more walking and climbs the stairs a couple of times a day. Of course, he has to sit down then and get his breath. Anyway, we feel better about him. We miss all of you and hope to be back next Sunday if the weather isn't awful. Hope all is well with everyone there."

Let's don't forget Dick and Doris in our daily prayers.

Updates

2010-11-11T10:46:00.002-05:00

DICK RICHARDSON:

Dick came home yesterday and is doing much better.

LAURA YOUNG (OMA):

Oma, too, is doing much better and they are looking for her to be released from the hospital today.

Please continue to pray for these families as our loved ones continue to heal.

This Sunday

2010-11-10T23:16:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone,

Just a reminder that we have a special Sunday coming up. Two of my students are going to come and share with us news of their ministry and work in Haiti. Laura Clancy and Glenn Wise will be sharing pictures and testimony about their work there.

Please plan on coming for this special message!

Thanks,

Jason

Oma - Laura Young and update on Dick

2010-11-10T13:29:00.001-05:00

FROM KATHY UMBERGER:

Talked to Betsy and she said Oma is in the hospital. She was admitted last night for test, possible heart, and they will keep her for one more night in Northside Forsyth. At this point, Betsy did not need anything. Please keep Oma, Betsy and Bud in your prayers. Please put this on the Blog

Let’s all be praying for Oma. Such a sweet Christian woman and everybody needs their Oma hug at least once a week.

DICK RICHARDSON:

He is doing much better and may even come home tomorrow. Please continue to lift him and Doris in prayer.

Dick Richardson

2010-11-09T09:55:00.002-05:00

Just got word from Doris that Dick began running a very high temperature over the weekend and yesterday he was taken by ambulance to Northside - main campus. He has pneumonia. He has been give a heavy duty shot and is feeling somewhat better, but needs lots and lots of rest. They ask for prayer on Dick's behalf and please hold off on any visits for the time being. Thanks to Todd for driving Doris down and taking her back today. Their son is coming in today to help out.

We'll give you updates as we receive them. Pray for this beautiful Christian couple that we all love so much.

Pray for the Fosters' Family

2010-11-06T14:52:00.003-04:00

I just got word that Cathi, Anne Foster's sister, passed away this morning. Please be in prayer for their family.

The funeral is Wednesday Nov 10th at 1 o'clock. Anne said her mother has been in the hospital for pneumonia and a blood clot in her lung. She was released today and has come home. She wanted to say thank-you to everyone for your prayers.

Jason

Final Reminder

2010-11-05T15:08:00.003-04:00

Don't forget to turn your clocks BACK tomorow night. If you forget and come early, go ahead and warm up the building for the rest of us and start the coffee.

Prayer request

2010-11-03T23:27:00.002-04:00

Anne Foster's mother is in the hospital with pneumonia and was also diagnosed with diabetes. They have started her on some medications, but they don't know how long she will have to be in the hospital.

Also, Anne's sister's condition is getting worse each day. She began have trouble swallowing today so they feel the end is very near now. The family asks that you keep these requests in your prayers.

Update on Jason

2010-10-27T21:36:00.003-04:00

Well, the doctors decided it was Type II Diabetes instead of Type I. For those who may not know, that is a much better diagnosis for Jason. His sugar came down relatively fast so the doctor let him go home with a promise that he will follow up with a doctor tomorrow.

Please continue your prayers for him as there are adjustments ahead in his life.

Ben and Jan

IMMEDIATE PRAYER NEED

2010-10-27T17:33:00.003-04:00

We've just hung up talking with Jason and he has asked for prayer. He has been diagnosed with Type I Diabetes and will most likely be admitted into the hospital until they can get control of his sugar levels.

Please don't bombard the hospital by rushing down there. He is still in the emergency room right now and does not yet have a room. Ben is on his way down to be with Jason and we will give updates as quickly as we get them.

Please pray for our minister and brother in Christ.

Thanks,

Ben and Jan

Update on Judy Ware's brother

2010-10-27T13:49:00.001-04:00

From Judy:

My brother was able to go home last night and is resting comfortably. Thanks to everyone for their inquiries and prayers. He personally asked me to thank each of you who lifted him up in prayer.

Special Sunday

2010-10-26T16:12:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

On Nov. 14 we're going to have a special guest. Laura Clancy, who has talked to us before, is going to share an update on her ministry in Haiti, and her plans. She will share her testimony, and also an update on what is happening with her ministry there, and current issues in Haiti.

Please plan on coming to listen to Laura! I'm looking forward to hearing her again.

Jason

Prayer Request

2010-10-25T23:39:00.002-04:00

Got this prayer request from Suzanne Campbell.

Please ask everyone in our church family to be praying for Larry and his family, his Mom (Allie Beasley) passed away today! She was 93! Larry is the baby of seven.

Let's be praying for Larry and his family.

Jason

New baby Titus

2010-10-24T14:51:00.001-04:00

Shaun and Kate Titus have welcomed their new baby girl into the world this morning (10/24/2010) at approximately 12:30. We don't have any more information as to weight and name yet, but she is an adorable little girl with a head full of black curly hair. Mom and baby are doing well here at the Northside Forsyth Hospital campus.

Update on Judy Ware's brother

2010-10-17T20:18:00.002-04:00

From Judy:

Jim is being moved to ICU due to acute renal failure. All of the drugs they are giving him to combat the infection, congestive heart failure, gout, etc. , have weakened his kidneys further. Blood has been found in Baton Rouge and being transported to Covington now. His is scheduled for a transfusion today. We are praying all will go well and he will not have any further complications from that transfusion as has happened before with the antibodies he tends to build up.

I have not hear a prediction on the outcome of all of this, but I know just enough to know this is not a good situation for him and don't know that he is strong enough to undergo dialysis for very long. I appreciate your concerns and prayers.

Prayer request

2010-10-12T21:15:00.003-04:00

Please lift Judy Ware's brother, Jim Carter in prayer. He is back in the hospital with Congestive Heart Failure. Judy also asks that we remember her cousin, Lanell Hart, who is undergoing Open Heart Surgery tomorrow, October 13, 2010.

Romans 12: 12

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Parking This Sunday AND Greeter Sign-Up

2010-10-07T08:15:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone!

Just wanted to remind everyone that because there is still a church meeting in the school behind our new church location, parking will be a little crammed for a few more weeks. The good news is we are able to park in the grass next to the building. So, assuming it's not rainy on Sunday, we should be good to park there.

Also, one of the New Hope folks mentioned that if we park straight instead of diagonal (even though the lines are diagonal), we can fit more cars in.

A great idea from this past week was to have a "Greeter" ministry. We had VERY good numbers this Sunday and already had some new folks visit the church! I will have a sign-up sheet this week for official greeters--people who can stand in our vestibule and welcome folks every Sunday.

Thanks, everyone, and we'll see you this Sunday!

Jason

It's Friday, but SUNDAY'S COMING!

2010-10-01T21:57:00.004-04:00

Maybe you've heard this classic sermon from Tony Campolo about Jesus' resurrection and what it means to us. He says this over and over in that sermon. Well, it's a bit out of context, but it's Friday and our first Sunday worship service in our new location is coming this Sunday. So many from our church have worked tirelessly to set up the seats, set up the sound, paint, clean, fix things up, move stuff and so much more! I can't help but feel it's going to be really, really great.

SO, I want to encourage you...especially if you haven't been to church with us for a while, to expect great things and to come experience this exciting step with us!