Congratulations Kayla!

Congratulations to Kayla Simpson, who won the Gold medal in her division at the FCCLA State Competition this week. Kayla will compete with her partners, Whitney Mount and Becky Lee, at the Nationals in Orlando, FL in July.

In Loving Memory of Mary L. Pritchett...

1.24.1928-3.25.2008

Whenever I’m asked to describe who Jesus is for me, I think of Mary. To be in her presence was to know what it is to be a beloved child of God. Mary had the gift of holy hospitality. Her home felt like being home, being where you belong, being where you were meant to be. Enter with an unsettled soul, and Mary soon calmed the stormy waters. Bring dis-ease of spirit, and she offered you the peace that passes understanding. No matter how you came, you left having been graced by her gentle voice, her insightful discernment, her empathetic compassion, her wise counsel, and unconditional acceptance. She saw in you more than you could see. You felt she looked at you through the eyes of Jesus. Still waters run deep and Mary ran deep. Mary knew how to listen to you, because she knew how to listen to God. Conversation with Mary felt like prayer. Eating vegetable soup with her at her kitchen table was holy communion. As was being included at the dining room table with her family for Easter dinner. When we left Martin, Mary gave us a wood bread box. Taped to the bottom was a key to her back door. If home is where your heart is, we knew with Mary that we didn’t need a key, for it was always open.

Mike Ripski

For Mary Pritchett, in the Fullness of God's Kingdom

There is a light inside this very room

that glows with soft and reassuring beams

Although the lamp that held it once is gone

and hidden in the earth,to me its seems

shadows still melt before its subtle power.

This fragile lantern lit the psalmist's page

where plaints and praise from God's Davidic sage

yet move through spirit lips into our ears.

Thus, with newness of heartand heaven my goal,

a borrowed brightness from undying source

awakes the sleeping harp within my soul.

Bob Peckham, 3/29/08

Any memorials may be made to Martin First United Methodist Church.

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Morgan Wade and Ashley Grimes who participated in the Miss Martin Pageant on Saturday evening. Morgan was named Miss Martin 2008 and Ashley was named First Maid. Great job girls!

Women's Enrichment Ministry Event Coming Up!

Martin First United Methodist Church is sponsoring a SPRING WOMEN'S ENRICHMENT MINISTRY event on Saturday, April 12th, 2008 from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm. This event is a time to "Celebrate You" as women thorugh mind, body, and spirit. Kellye Cash Sheppard, former Miss America, will be our guest speaker. She will share her inspirational message through words and song. Lunch will be served. Tickets are available at the church office (587-2689) through April 8th. Come join us for an enriching day!

Welcome to our church family!

Welcome to our church family:

Sydney Gilliam, Lakyn Bell, Katie Moore, Annabelle Cormia, Hallie Butler,

Sean Jackson, Paul Richards, and Ryan Austin

Confirmation Class 2008

Confirmation Retreat

Our eight confirmands, some of their mentors, Brother Bill and Becca headed to Lakeshore for a final retreat where they learned all about the church year! If you want to know anything about Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, or Pentecost just ask our Confirmation Class, they are certified EXPERTS! Ha Ha! Special thanks to our mentors, Brother Bill, and the great staff at Lakeshore UMA for a wonderful retreat.

Lakyn Bell's Baptism

Lakyn Bell was baptized Saturday, March 15th, at McCabe UMC. Thanks again to McCabe and Rev. Jimmy Carter for allowing us to use their facilities!

Brother Bill and Lakyn preparing for her baptism.

The Bell family was present in full force in support of Lakyn's decision.

snowcross at sunrise

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Congratulations John and Mary Margaret Chester

Congratulations to church members, John and Mary Margaret Chester, recepients of the National Young Farmer and Ranchers Excellence in AgricultureAward . They received a brand new truck Tuesday from Taylor Automotive.

Mary Anna loves "HER new truck"!