the BridgeBuilders

Join Us!

2010-05-01T06:20:00.000-06:00

Grand Opening: May 2, 2010

After years of praying, searching, and building, we are happy to announce the Grand Opening of our new location on May 2, 2010. The facility at Houston Levee is truly built for community and ministry. Bring a friend and join us as we celebrate on May 2nd!

WHEN: May 2, 2010
9:00 a.m. Sunday School
10:15 a.m. Worship

Prayer Requests 3/21

2010-03-22T17:19:00.001-06:00

- those searching for Christ and those of us trying to help
- Laura's grandfather, John- very sick, in and out of hospital, pray for his soul/salvation
- Laura's parents- to seek Christ and desire healing (in life, in their marriage)
- Mom Ivey- pray for peace for her and guidance for Bill and Cathy and her care
- Shappley's nephew, Lathan, leukemia
- Rudy- out of town for 6 weeks
- still praise for Ashley's dad's job and Rudy's job
- Ben Pinckley, Iraq/camp Taji, pray for: his safety, his spirit, for a heavy issue he is faced with
- Gena, woman JD works with was injured by her grandson. Pray for her comfort, recovery
- Lauren Setzler- chemo for leukemia
- Carrie and Baby Presley
- Seth + family's transition to Louisville

Prayer Requests 2/7

2010-02-13T11:31:00.001-06:00

- Ann King- heavy treatments this week

- Jenny- fighting off a cold

- Jenny and David- God's guidance, and blessings on our family through all going on (Ann and wedding)

- Liz LaVelle- migraines- healing and answers

- Nita Fuller- healing- back pain

- Martha Kee- healing- brain cancer- starts treatments soon

- Arlana, Savannah, Ian- agape kids and caregivers; decision

- Seth and Carrie and Colt traveling to Louisville next weekend to start looking at houses

- Seth and Carrie about to put our house on the market in the next few weeks.

- Baby Presley Portis to continue to grow healthy

- Pat Davis' passing- cancer- funeral was 2/3

- Ben Pinckley- shipping to Iraq

- JD's niece Katie going through some things- that she would be open to support from family

- Shappley's- nephew Lathan has leukemia

- medical team from LeBonheur in Haiti- seeing 200+ patients a day and doing surgeries

- Rebecca Ellis's Dad, prayers for him to continue recovering and to gain physical strength back

REMINDERS

2010-02-13T10:51:00.002-06:00

Please remember to complete the Spiritual Gifts Profile and bring it to class tomorrow (Feb. 14). This is a great way to discover your God-given gifts how you use them to glorify Him! See link in previous post.

I now a lot of us are busy, but Bridgebuilders is an important piece of the Highland family. There are a lot of great upcoming opportunities for growth, study, and fellowship!

Act Like Men Breakfast

WHEN: Sunday, February 21, 7:30am

WHERE: Grad School Hospitality Room

TOPIC: "Being Christ"

Wednesday Night Studies

Womens's Study: Priscilla Shirer’s “Discerning the Voice of God”

WHEN: Begin Wednesday, February 17, 7:00pm

WHERE: Harding Academy

This is a 7 week DVD study. If you joined us last spring for the first Priscilla Shirer, you know you’re in for a treat! Priscilla’s studies are very similar to Beth Moore. Workbooks with daily homework are recommended but not required. Please sign up and purchase workbooks ($11) this Sunday morning.

Men's Study: John Eldridge's "Wild at Heart"

Ministry Fair

WHEN: Sunday, February 21, during Sunday School

WHERE: Harding Academy

Learn about Highland's ministries and find the best fit for your talents and passion.

Prayer Requests 1/17

2010-01-19T08:27:00.002-06:00

Spiritual Gifts Profile - http://www.churchgrowth.org/cgi-cg/gifts.cgi?id=501116 . Please complete the profile, print a copy of your results and bring to class on Feb. 14.

Please be in prayer for the following:

-Lauren Setzler-friend of Ryan and Laura's with leukemia
-People of Haiti
-Leslie and Martha's brother, Scott
-Sarah Shappley's nephew (leukemia) and his family
-Sara Garner's parents and their financial situation
-Ann King-chemo treatments start Tuesday
-blessings in every step of this process
-Wisdom and insight for David and Jenny as they are being blessed by caring for Ann
-Becca's dad, Bob Robertson, hospitalized after falling. He is having some neurological problems. Pray for healing and for his doctors.

-Pat Davis (cancer)-Pray that the doctors will target cancer type for specific treatment and chemo
-ECS-pray for this time of re-enrollment
-Ben Pinkley, JD's cousin-will ship to Iraq/Pakistan at the end of the month. Pray for his spirit and protection, as he has a wife and two children who he will be leaving.

Spiritual Gifts Profile - IMPORTANT!

2010-01-17T07:49:00.003-06:00

The Spiritual Gifts Profile is online here. You can click on it and take the profile. Invite all your class members to do the same. After you take the profile it sends a copy of the computed results to your email account. Every class member can print this and bring it to class on Feb. 14th. PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO DO THIS!

Upcoming Social Events

2009-12-04T09:19:00.002-06:00

December 10 - 6pm Cookie Swap. See this post for details.

December 13 - Christmas Class Potluck Dinner 5:30, eating at 6. A food sign up list is circulating via Carrie. Please email her with questions or to sign up for food, or just to let her know you are coming but can't bring anything (you're still welcome and we want you to come!)

December 18 - Zoo Lights. Please email me or comment below if you and family plan on attending.

Prayer Requests 11/29

2009-12-04T09:16:00.002-06:00

-Ann King-health concerns
-Arlana, Savannah, and Ian-the LaVelle's foster babies. Specifically pray for the Eli family, who are fostering the children, as well as the birth parents. Pray that the best decisions will be made for the children.
-LaVelles-God will guide and bless all activities in our home and family-peace
-family of Misty George, a friend of Josh, Cason, and Randi, who died over the weekend. She left behind 3 young children.

Praise for the sale of Stacey's parents home in Louisville. Prayer for continued renewed relationships and allowing God's leading.

Praise for Seth's acceptance into dental school!

Praise for Carrie's good ultrasound and healthy baby GIRL!

Praise for the sale of Stacey's parents home in Louisville. Prayer for continued renewed relationships and allowing God's leading.

Zoo Light NIght

2009-11-24T09:19:00.002-06:00

If you are interested in joining other Bridgebuilders families for a Zoo Light night on December 18 please comment below. For a group of 20 or more, a discounted price of $6/person applies. If you currently have a Zoo Membership, your regular discounted price of $5 will apply. Children under 2 are free. If we do not have at least 20 interested people we will still plan on going, however the non-member price will be $7/person.

For more information on Zoo Lights features click here.

Cookie Swap 2009

2009-11-23T09:09:00.009-06:00

When: December 10, 6:00p until

Where: Stacey Meredith's Home - email for directions/address

Get out those recipes and mixers! This is so much fun every year and I know I'm not alone when I say it's one of the holiday events I look forward to the most!

Details: Come ready to sample and judge

1. You'll need to bring a plate of cookies (or bite size dessert) (one for each participant - as of today we have 21) for tasting and judging. No slice and bake please.

2. Bag or package approximately 4 cookies for each participant. Attach the recipe to the bag.

3. Please email me the name of your cookie beforehand (will remain secret until the night of the event) so I can make the name/number signs for the anonymous tasting table. (I am not a judge!)

Tips:

Look for recipes that make approx 3 dozen. You'll be fine with three times the recipe.

Use a cookie scoop to be sure you get the amount of cookies you expect out of your dough.

Packaging your cookies and freezing them usually works with most recipes so you should be able to work ahead.

Don't wait until the night before to bake or you'll pull your hair out!

Prizes will be awarded for the following:
1. Best Overall
2. Best Taste
3. Most unique
4. Prettiest (includes the presentation on the tasting plate)
5. Best Packaging

We've got a two time winner in our midst! Will she make that a Triple Crown? We'll find out December 10!

Note - if you would like the recipe booklet from last year's event, please email me or comment below. I'll be finishing a PDF booket this week.

Prayer Requests 11/22

2009-11-23T08:51:00.000-06:00

Carrie and Seth- first ultrasound on wed. Find out sex. Pray for a healthy baby.

- Robert Hill- graduated from HS with Jean; his wife died last week after a 5 year struggle with breast cancer. She was only 30 and left behind a 5 year old daughter, as well as her husband.

- Lavells- Arlana, Savannah, and Ian- the Eli family- that God will direct what's best for the children. That God will do whatever it takes to bring us all close to Him. Our children too.

- Coker family- father/husband killed in MVA

- That we can continue to find ways to bless Bill's mom in ways that bring quality to her life.

- Merediths- praise for good meeting my brother had yesterday. Continued prayers for brother and family.

- Meredith's traveling to SC this week

- For all those traveling for the holidays to have safe travels.

- Matt and Laura traveling to FL this week; haven't seen Laura's family since April and getting a little nervous. Pray we would continue to be spiritually intentional with our relationships with them

- prayers for the families at LeBonheur who will be spending the holidays in the hospital.

Happy Thanksgiving! Give thanks to God!

Christmas Potluck Dinner

2009-11-17T17:37:00.002-06:00

Look for an email this week from Carrie for our class Christmas potluck dinner! There will be a sign up for all the various things we'll need. If you know that someone in our class is not getting Bridgebuilders' email, please have them email Leslie (email on side bar under Reach Groups.) to be added to the list.

The class party will include an ornament exchange and lots of delicious homemade goodness! We're looking forward to it and hope you are too.

Stacey & Carrie

Upcoming Social Events

2009-11-15T17:00:00.002-06:00

December 10 - Cookie Swap
List of those who will be participating and guidelines to follow in an email. Please invite your friends. This a great outreach opportunity for our class. You also don’t have to bake to be a part of the fellowship. We always need judges!

December 13 - Class Christmas Potluck & Ornament Exchange
This year’s class Christmas fellowship will be a pot-luck dinner. I'll post again with details on how many entrees, veggies, sides, etc. W

December TBA - Zoo Lights Group
Zoo Lights at the Memphis Zoo has expanded it’s footprint to include Teton Treck and the Northwest Passage. It’s sure to be a magical evening. Group rates are $6/person for those who do not have a zoo membership. For those who do, your regular membership of $5/person applies. Please comment or email me if you're interested. We are considering December 18 or 19.

Prayer Requests 11/15

2009-11-15T16:54:00.003-06:00

Sorry I missed putting last week's on here. I've listed them below this post.

- Thomas Neely (4 yrs old) is having a biopsy on a mole that will be removed from his cheek this week. (Amanda + Matt Neely)

- Praise for improvement in health of Shannon and Zoe (Bill & Cathy's daughter and granddaughter)

- Praise for Mrs. Ivey's improved health (Bill's Mom)

- Those couples experiencing marriage problems or going through divorce

- Thanks for successful Dynamic Marriage Class (10 couples)

- Please pray for Ian, Savannah, and Arlana that they will be alowed to be in a permanent family soon. Blessings and strength on the Eli family to who is fostering all 3 - with possibility of adoption

- Dan LaVelle - apply for grad school, interview Thursday

- Ann King - health questions

- Sean Prince - health issues

- Ashley's dad - looking for a job + the other request not posted here.

- Stacey's Aunt Gwen Beauford was killed in a car accident Friday. Please pray for Sid, her husband and her sons Tommy, Kevin and Don. Please pray that my parents can help comfort them during this time. Please pray for my mother as she ministers to her sister's sons through this.

- Continued prayer for the Bynums (Stacey's parents and brother/family) that their business would glorify God, that they would be blessed by this work, and that they would continue to rely on God to meet their needs during a very stressful time. Prayer that my parents will find a renter for their home in Louisville.

- Ben Pinckley - possible deployment

- Pray for the Bridgebuilders - that we would grow closers as a class and community

11/8

Meredith's friend Jessica's husband in Iraq
- Darrien Bonner- 10 y.o. at Lebonheur (not doing well)
- Shappleys- Ccontinued prayers for nephew, Lathan, and praise that he is responding very well to chemo so far. Also, my sister-in-law's (Lathan's mom) dad died yesterday.
- Merediths- Stacey's uncle- Quad bypass; JD's Grandmother- No Parkinsons but treated for depression; Stacey's Brother Todd- struggling financially; Stacey's mom and dad- sale of home- pray for good appraisal.
- Shannon's health/Cathy helping; Bill and Cathy being apart; Mom Ivey

Cookie Exchange/Swap

2009-11-09T14:55:00.002-06:00

It looks like Thursday, December 10 is winning out. We (Carrie and I) are really excited about this year's exchange. In case you don't know, she and I are officially the social planners of our Bridgebuilders Class.

Some things in the planning are our annual Christmas Dinner. Several of you have mentioned you'd love a Potluck and Ornament exchange this year and we've heard you. We'll announce the date asap, but we're looking at December 13.

Also, we've priced Zoo Lights for a group. If you've never been you'll want to. Even if you don't have kids it's so pretty and magical looking! The Zoo has expanded the footprint of Zoo Lights to include the Northwest Passage and Teton Trek. For a group of 20 or more, admission is $6/person. Kids under 2 are free. If you have a Zoo Membership, it is your regular Membership discounted price of $5/person.

2010 Cookie Swap

2009-11-04T19:05:00.006-06:00

Are you ready for some holiday competition? Get out those mixers, measuring cups, cookies sheets, and aprons. It's time for our annual Cookie Swap. How many years has it been now?

We've had some real contenders in years past including Leslie Jerkins, two time overall winner. It just might be your year to be crowned as the Cookie Queen! Heh. And yes, we will have several categories this year too!

Please comment below and let me know if Tuesday, December 8 or Thursday, December 10 works better for you. Majority will rule.

Instructions, details, and recipe book from last year's event to come....

I'll be checking for your comments!

Feed-a-Family Sacks

2009-11-04T13:14:00.006-06:00

Help a family enjoy a Thanksgiving meal this holiday. If you were not able to pick up a Feed-A-Family Sack at the Welcome Center last Sunday it is not too late. Just fill your own paper sack with the items listed below and return the filled bag on Sunday, November 22.

Please put your $10.00 check to MUM in the designated baskets that will also be on the stage.

Feel free to decorate the bag!

2 cans of corn
2 cans green beans
Stuffing Mix
1 can cranberry sauce
Bag of Rolls
Pie Crust Mix
Canned Pie Filling

$10.00 Check to MUM (will be used to purchase the turkey)

Help others have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

Holiday Social Events

2009-11-04T07:54:00.004-06:00

We are currently working on some ideas for December class social events. If you have any ideas, please email me ispydesigns at mac.com.

Some of the ideas include The Cookie Swap, Zoo Lights, and of course, our annual class Christmas Dinner.

Upcoming Events:

2009-11-04T07:50:00.002-06:00

11/7/2009 HeartLight 2009
Agricenter Memphis, TN

TIME:
Tour 1: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM, Tour 2: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Reserve your time now (includes dinner, tour and program), seating limited to 500 per tour.

ABOUT POWERLINES:
This year’s HeartLight event, “Powerlines,” will be a uniquely engaging and interactive experience. Through an experiential tour, guests will be introduced to real-life experiences taking place in our community, and the exciting new ways we have planned to bring help and hope to children and families in at-risk neighborhoods. Powerlines will move, challenge and energize attendees around the need to help children and families in Memphis.

COST/INFO:
Cost is $75 per ticket. Please contact 901.323.3600 for reservations or questions. Sponsorships are also available. Dress is business casual.
For information on tickets or sponsorships for the HeartLight event, call 901.323.3600.

11/9 Seasonings
This is such a great opportunity to get to know some spiritually mature or "seasoned" ladies who can be wonderful mentors and encouragers. The topic of this Seasonings event will be "Making Family Memories." If you need any more info, feel free to shoot me an e-mail at jeanbostic at hotmail dot com. Look for the sign up sheet again this coming Sunday.

11/14 Crafts with Lou Anne

Saturday, November 14
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
5565 Shelby Oaks Dr.

Back by popular demand, we'll be creating Decorative Ice Buckets! Bring $16.50 and decorative baubles (beads, jewelry, ornaments, etc.). Sign-ups are required at the Reflections Table.

Prayer Requests 11/1

2009-11-02T07:49:00.001-06:00

Please be in prayer for the following. Please comment below to add more prayer requests/praises/words of encouragement.

- Jenny- sick today

- Jenny's foster brother Lloyd and Brenda need prayers re: health, legal and job issues

- David- travel next weekend

- Laura's friend- pregnant and having a threatened miscarriage, on bed rest; pray for wisdom, comfort, health

- Sarah and Taylor's nephew Lathan, diagnosed with leukemia

- Ashley

- Darrien Bonner- 10 y.o. patient at LeBonheur, inoperable heart condition, not doing well, will probablly not make it to Christmas

- Seth- dental school interviews; upcoming acceptance day

- Randi and Anne in NYC

LaRose Trunk or Treat

2009-10-25T15:22:00.001-06:00

Don't forget:

LaRose Fall Festival

WHEN: October 30, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: LaRose Elementary
We're going to celebrate with our friends at LaRose by hosting a Trunk or Treat at their school. If you would like to help coordinate this event, contact Josh Ray at 901-312-3485 or jray23@mac.com.

Trunk or Treat Tonight

2009-10-25T15:10:00.003-06:00

With the 2009 - 2010 year already in full swing we hope to keep this blog updated on a more reglar basis. I (Stacey M.) will be adding various items to this blog to keep everyone updated on the happenings in our class and at Highland.

Tonight is Trunk or Treat at Harding Grad School!

WHERE: Harding Graduate School
5:30 p.m. Cookout
6:00 p.m. Devotional
6:15 p.m. Parade of Costumes
6:30 p.m. Candy Give-Away

Join us for a fun time of fellowship, candy, and kids!

Help the Nichols Move!

2008-06-11T09:50:00.005-06:00

Hey everyone!

This is just a reminder that Matt and I are moving this Saturday, June 14. We are going to start at 9am. We will have food and drinks.

For their address/directions, check the class email or contact Kristin (cell # below).

It may be a little crowded for parking by our apartment since we are at a dead end and there will be a large moving truck in our driveway. You can park anywhere on the street as long as you aren't blocking someone else's driveway. If you get lost, my cell phone is 931-273-6445.

Thanks!

Kristin

Have No Fear!

2008-06-10T09:50:00.001-06:00

The BridgeBuilders blog will be back up soon. Sorry for the months of non-updating!

Baby Ying!

2007-11-16T11:36:00.000-06:00

Hairong and Joseph Ying have birth to a sweet little girl on Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm. She was 7 lbs 13 oz & 20 in long. They named her Elizabeth Grace. They are at G'town Methodist, probably coming home today.

Ethan

2007-10-30T09:12:00.001-06:00

PLEASE pray for Ethan this morning! The bad news has been abundant recently:
Here is the latest:

October 30- Day 263 1st Update/ 6:56am [Ben] URGENT PRAYER REQUEST! Ethan has now been seizing (a seizure) for an hour and 40 minutes non stop. After thirty minutes, he began running the risk for brain damage if oxygen is limited to the brain. I am not sure when I can update again, I need to get back to holding his hand and comforting him. He is shaking uncontrollably, but we both agreed it was important to get you guys praying. If the seizures do not subside, Ethan will not be eligible for further CHEMO treatment. Please hit a knee (literally). PRAY HARD! PRAY NOW! And Please BeLIeVe... PRAYER WORKS!!!

Class Emails

2007-10-30T09:11:00.000-06:00

Several people have requested to be added to the class email list recently or have indicated that they haven't been receiving emails. If you've been experiencing difficulty, my advice is to go to www.googlegroups.com, sign in, click on the Highland BridgeBuilders' group and click on "edit my membership" on the right sidebar.

If you receive abridged or digest versions of the email, those are sometimes delayed (though I have no clue why). The most reliable way to receive emails are to choose the "email" option. While this can be annoying when girls are signing up to bring meals, etc, it is also the best way to receive an email (such as the one Nick sent out about class on Friday) immediately as it is sent.

Another option, if you just can't stand the amount of emails, is to check the google groups page daily. Each email that is sent out is posted as a "message" in the discussions portion of the homepage. You can see the most current emails that way as well.

Again, to access that BridgeBuilders' google groups page, you can either go to www.googlegroups.com, sign in, and click on our group on the right side of the page OR you can go directly to the homepage website (it will probably prompt you to sign in): http://groups.google.com/group/highlandbridgebuilders

Also, if you know of anyone that would like to receive our class emails, you are welcome to invite them into the group without going through me. Simply go to the BridgeBuilders' google groups homepage, and click on "invite members"...I'm not sure if everyone has the "Add members directly" option, but that's what I always choose to directly add members to the list. "Inviting" a person to the group will send them an email giving them an option to join the group.

Ok, hope that helps everyone out! I'm happy to help with any problems--just wanted to let you know what you have access to!

- Jesse

Important Dates in October

2007-10-02T13:16:00.000-06:00

Baby Girl Shower for Randi Shirley:
Sunday, October 7 (2-4pm) @ the Smeltzer's

Bridal Shower for Ashley Hodge:
Sunday, October 14 (2-4pm) in the Fellowship Hall

BridgeBuilders Fall Party:
Sunday, October 14 (5pm) @ Priddy Farms (Bartlett)

Couples Baby Shower for Hairong & Joseph Ying:
Saturday, October 20 (details TBA)

And NOW, check out our class calendar through our blog or by searching "Highland BridgeBuilders" within the public calendars on Google Calendars!

Fall Party

2007-09-25T10:15:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

This is just a reminder that our fall party is scheduled for October 14 at 5pm. We are having it at Priddy Farms in Bartlett. The cost is $18 per couple/family. This includes hotdogs and fixins, drinks, and s'mores. We will go on a hayride and pick pumpkins. There is also a great play area for kids as well as a train ride. Bring your cameras because there are places to take great family photos. You may want to bring chairs to sit in as there are not many picnic tables. If you have any questions, please email Kristin Nichols (kristinnichols1031@yahoo.com) or Jean Bostic (jeanbostic@hotmail.com). Also, feel free to invite friends who are not members of our class. This would be a great outreach opportunity.

Website for Priddy Farms:
www.priddyfarms.com

Thanks,
Kristin Nichols

Help the Ellises!

2007-09-18T10:52:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, Marcus and I are in the process of moving into our new home. Along with moving into a new home comes crying out for help from our friends. We plan to move on Saturday, September 22 and can use all the help we can get. We would like to start around 9am and we will gladly provide breakfast and lunch (probably some really healthy items such as donuts and pizza!) If any of you could help, it would be greatly appreciated!! You can email or call to let us know if you can help, or you can just show up!

Please check the email for address & phone information.

Thanks,
Rebecca

Meals for the Stephenson's

2007-09-18T10:22:00.000-06:00

Tommy & Selena Stephenson are now proud parents of TWIN BABY BOYS! Jesse & Luke were born on Thursday, August 30 at 5 & 6 lbs respectively. Let's shower this family with meals and help, as they are sure to making a double adjustment to their new life of parenthood!

Check the email for address & phone number details.

**DIETARY RESTRICTION: Selena can't have bell peppers!**

Wednesday, September 12:
1. Meredith

Friday, September 14:
1. White
2. Nichols

Monday, September 17:
1. Jennifer Swymn

Wednesday, September 19:
1. Jean Bostic
2. Anne Nowlin

Friday, September 21:
1.
2.

Monday, September 24:
1. Carrie Portis
2. Amanda Neely

Wednesday, September 26:
1. Jenny LaVelle (no partner needed)

Friday, September 28:
1. Jesse Faris
2.

Sunday Morning Breakfast

2007-08-28T12:36:00.000-06:00

The Nowlin, Faris, Nichols Reach Group is in charge of breakfasts for the month of August. We are going to pitch in a little cash and let Rudy & Ashley continue to bring donuts since they invited the owner of Gibson's donuts to their wedding and all. :)

Here are some additions we'll be providing--just wanted to give everyone a heads up!

Couple who will keep the back ledge clean & tidy:
(Clean it off the first week before breakfast, and then clean it off after breakfast each week during the month)
1. Gearson

Couple who will bring tasty coffee and brew it each week:
1. Kristen & Alex

Couple who will bring coffee fixin's, and keep up with them:
(Make sure they get refrigerated or stored away from bugs)
1. Faris

Couples who will bring a healthy alternative/supplement for one week:
(Ex: fresh fruit, breakfast casserole, bran muffins, etc.)

9/2:
Ivey

9/9:
Nichols

9/16:
Meredith

9/23:
Ying

9/30:
Nowlin

Wednesday Evening Girls Bible Study

2007-08-28T12:32:00.000-06:00

For those of you who are interested in getting back to our girls bible study on Wednesday nights then we will begin on September 12th in our BridgeBuilder's classroom. If you already have the book the Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis then please bring that. We will do an overview on Chapter one and can all decide if that is something we are interested in reading for our study. If not then we are open to suggestions! Hope to see you gals there.

- Amanda Neely

Baby Girl Shower for Randi Shirley

2007-08-28T12:19:00.000-06:00

I’m sure by now you’ve heard the news,
the mother-to-be is not singing the blues.
In fact PINK is the color of this celebration,
because a little GIRL is her new expectation!

Please join us in helping shower Randi Shirley with girly gifts on October 7 from 2-4 at the home of the Smeltzer’s. Check the email for their address & phone number.

Welcome Baby Henley!

2007-08-27T08:54:00.000-06:00

Well another precious, healthy baby has arrived! Henley Bradford Robertson was born on Thursday at 9:46 p.m. and weighed 7 pounds 11 ounces. She was 20 inches long and as cute as can be! We will start bringing them food this Monday the 27th. Check the email for their phone # & address!

Monday 8-27
1. Anne Nowlin
2. Jesse Faris

Wednesday 8-29
1. Beth Abraham
2. Jean Bostic

Friday 8-31
1. Stacey Meredith
2. Leslie Jerkins

Wednesday 9-5
1. Kate Lareau

Friday 9-7
1. Angie Conway
2. Danielle Ridley

Monday 9-10
1. Jenny LaVelle

Wednesday 9-12
1. Rebecca Ellis
2. Cathy Ivey

Friday 9-14
1. Brooke Ray
2. Ashley White

Monday 9-17
1. Carrie Portis
2. Amanda Neely

Reach Group Kick-Off

2007-08-21T08:35:00.000-06:00

Reach Group Kick-Off
August 26,2007 5PM
Location: LaVelle’s House-2975 Mallard Ln., Germantown, TN

Sign up to bring something!

Chips

Neely
Ellis
White
Ivey

2 liters (2 each)

Bostic
Ying
Geerson
Portis

Cups

LaVelle

Plates

Nowlin

Napkins

Nowlin

Dessert

Meredith
Johnson
Kink/Hodge

Non-carbonated drinks (lemonade, tea, etc.)

Faris
Irwin

Ice (2 bags)

Nichols

A New Sunday Morning Breakfast System

2007-08-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

First: A big THANK YOU to Ashley and Rudy, who have faithfully supplied us with donuts each Sunday morning for months on end!

Providing Sunday morning breakfast snacks is a responsibility that we would like to share as a class, and Amanda Neely (being the brilliant woman that she is) has drawn up a rotation for each Reach Group to be in charge of breakfast for a month.

Take a look at the list below and be thinking about which weeks within your Reach Group's month that you could help out! (Reach Group leaders can pass around sign-up sheets or talk about a plan for their particular month at our kickoff meeting next Sunday.)

And the next time you see Ashley & Rudy, give them a big hug and thank them for the way they've quietly served us each week for the past year!

September- Faris/Nichols/Nowlin RG

October- Neely/White RG

November- Abraham/Smeltzer RG

December- Faris/Nichols/Nowlin RG

January- Neely/White RG

February-Abraham/Smeltzer RG

March- Faris/Nichols/Nowlin RG

April- Neely/White RG

May-Abraham/Smeltzer RG

Help the Smiths Move

2007-08-16T08:59:00.000-06:00

Well, the time has come and we are on the verge of heading out of Memphis. We have a big truck and need some hands to help us get it loaded. We will start at 8:00 Saturday morning and hope to knock it out quickly. If we’re not done by about noon, we’ll stop for lunch, probably take a break during the heat and finish up in the evening. If you are available, even if it is only for an hour, stop on by. We’ll take whatever help we can get. Also, we’re sharing the truck with our teammates (we’re all heading to Tyler together) and they live at Harding Grad. They will need some help getting their stuff from the grad school to our house to be loaded, so we’ll need a pickup or two.We appreciate any of you that are able to come. We will have the standard donuts (and Peruvian coffee) for breakfast and pizza for lunch. If you would drop us a quick email to let us know you’re planning on coming, we’ll make sure we have enough for everyone.

Thanks!
Kyle and Larissa

Abrahams Needing Childcare!

2007-08-13T08:14:00.000-06:00

Hi Class!

We are really enjoying our new baby boy, Wesley. He is doing great so far and his mom and dad really appreciate the delicious meals you all are bringing.

In the midst of our joy, we have been told that the daycare facility at Le Bonheur where we planned on taking him is full and won't have a place for him after all. We are very disappointed about this and sadly, were not prepared for the news. We are now exploring other options for him.

I wanted to see if anyone in the class knew of anyone they would trust who is looking for an opportunity to care for a child in either their or our home. My hours that I would need someone would be Monday through Friday, 7 - 4:30 or 5. My hours can be more flexible in the afternoons if needed on a day-by-day basis. If you know of anyone interested, you can give them my phone number, and I can give them more information. (Check the class email for phone #/email)

Thank you and we appreciate your prayers in this as well.
Beth

The Smiths are Having a Sale!

2007-08-08T13:11:00.000-06:00

Kyle and Larissa Smith are having a carport sale this Saturday and need more stuff to fill up the driveway and attract shoppers. If anyone wants in on the action, you are welcome to come sell some things. This way you take advantage of what advertising will already be done. Just come make some money! If interested, call Kyle or Larissa --refer to the email for their cell numbers.

Reach Group Sign-Up

2007-08-06T10:01:00.001-06:00

Here are the current Reach Group sign-up lists:
(email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org to add your name to the list!)

Matt Neely & Brad White:
1. Teresa & John Rippy
2. Matt & Jessica Hart
3. Marcus & Rebecca Ellis
4. Joey & Kristin Crawford
5. Seth & Carrie Portis
6. David & Jenny LaVelle

Scott Abraham & Matt Smeltzer:
1. Tate & Sarah Eble
2. Russell & Amber Johnson
3. Ashley Hodge & Rudy Kink
4. Josh & Jean Bostic
5.
6.

James Nowlin, Nick Faris, & Matt Nichols:
1. Kristen Edwards & Alex Hamilton
2. Stacey & JD Meredith
3. Sean & Laurel Geerson
4. Bill & Cathy Ivey
5. Tommy & Selena Stephenson
6.

If you're interested in joining Jonathan & Leslie Jerkins' reach group, please email lesliejerkins@gmail.com.

Abraham Baby

2007-07-31T10:49:00.000-06:00

Scott and Beth had a baby BOY on Sunday night while we were partying with the Stephenson's. Wesley Scott was born around 6:30 Sunday night and weighed 6 pounds and 15 ounces. He was 21 inches long! They are at Methodist Germantown but will probably leave sometime today. Beth's mom will probably stay the rest of the week so just call them at home if you want to stop by. I am going to go ahead and start the food list and then will bring it to class on Sunday. We will start bringing food next Monday (8-6). Please give them a call before bringing food. Check the email for their phone number & address or email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org for the info.

The following sign-up list will be updated regularly (the newest info will be in orange):

Monday 8-6
1. Jesse Faris
2. Leslie Jerkins

Wednesday 8-8
1. Jean Bostic
2. Stacey Meredith

Friday 8-10
1. Casey Robertson
2. Ashley White

Monday 8-13
1. Anne Nowlin
2. Kristin Nichols

Wednesday 8-15
1. Cathy Ivey
2. Rebecca Ellis

Friday 8-17
1.
2.

Monday 8-20
1. Jenny LaVelle
2. (no partner needed)

Wednesday 8-22
1. Amanda Neely
2. Carrie Portis

Friday 8-24
1. Ashley Hodge
2. Laura Smeltzer

Reach Group Leaders Meeting

2007-07-25T14:42:00.001-06:00

To all BridgeBuilders Reach Group Leaders for the coming year:

We will have a quick planning meeting following Sunday School class THIS SUNDAY, July 29th. It will take about 15 minutes. For anyone who is available after that brief meeting, we’ll head over to the Lenny’s next door and eat and discuss some more.

If you can NOT come to the brief 15 minute meeting, please let Jesse know by this Friday, July 27.

Thanks!

Class Leadership

2007-06-25T13:29:00.000-06:00

Thanks to everyone who brought items for the brunch this past Sunday!
Here are the names from the sign-up for leadership positions:

Reach Group Leaders
Abraham
Neely
Faris
Irwin
Smeltzer
Portis
Nichols
Nowlin
White

Service Coordinator(s): [this position is still open!]
Class Activities Coordinators: Kristen Nichols & Jean Bostic
Greeting/Follow-Up Coordinators: Neely/Ellis
Spiritual Coordinators: Faris
Fellowship Coordinators: Stacey Meredith & Leslie Jerkins

If you would like to help with any of these areas, please email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org.

Brunch Fellowship

2007-06-20T10:57:00.000-06:00

This Sunday, we'll have a brunch fellowship as we discuss some class leadership opportunities. Please see the left sidebar for more information about leadership opportunities. In the meantime, we'll have a quick and easy sign-up for a few brunch items for our class.

* Post a comment or respond to the email to sign-up. The blog will be updated as items are chosen. *

Any type of Breakfast Casserole:
1. Jean Bostic
2. Katie Land

Biscuits/Bagels:
1. Anne Nowlin - Bagels
2. Leslie Jerkins - Biscuits

Donuts/Cinnamon Rolls:
1. Larissa Smith - Cinnamon Rolls
2. Smeltzers

Fruit:
1. Jesse Faris
2. Stacey Meredith

Coffee (you're welcome to use the coffeemaker in our classroom):
1. Matt Neely

Juice:
1. Marcus & Rebecca Ellis

Plates/Napkins:
1. Kristen Crawford

Forks/Spoons/Cups:
1. Abrahams

Email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org if I'm missing anything and we'll add it to the list!

Help the Smeltzers!

2007-06-18T13:10:00.000-06:00

Matt & Laura Smeltzer need help moving this Saturday. Here's a message from them:

We are moving this Saturday, June 23 into our FIRST house! I think it's time now that we are owners of 5 bicycles, 3 unicycles and Laura's wardrobe. That alone takes up a whole house.
We could really use some help on Saturday, the more people can help the faster it goes! We'll plan on having coffee and donuts at 9:30 am at our apt., and then plan to get started at 10am with loading the truck. Shortly after we'll drive out to Mud Island and unload. We'll have pizza for lunch and a free unicycle lesson for all who are interested by Matt- juggling will cost you extra though. Thanks so much for those who have already volunteered, and would you mind emailing us again just to confirm?

* Matt & Laura's address & phone numbers have been removed for security reasons, but you can email Laura at the email address below, email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org, or check the class email for information. *

Thanks again, we REALLY appreciate it. Laura's parents would have loved to come help, but her dad has moved her about 4 times in the last 6 years in the middle of the summer up and down 3rd story apts and he's just getting old:)...well not to mention the plane ticket up here was a little pricey! And Matt's parents are moving themselves and remodling this weekend and can't come. So all the help we can get is MUCH appreciated!

Laura's email- lkaz15@aol.com

Thanks!!
Laura and Matt Smeltzer

Ray Food Sign-Up

2007-06-18T09:59:00.000-06:00

Josh and Brooke Ray have just brought home their daughter, Sophia Yenenesh, from Ethiopia. As they adjust to having a baby in their family, let’s help smooth the transition by providing dinners for them.

The spots are officially full! Check your email, call Larissa Smith, or email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org for their home address, phone number, and/or questions. Thanks for your willingness to pitch in--It means a lot!

* To sign up: Comment on this post or respond to the class email. This post will be updated to reflect the new sign-ups. (Updated material will be in orange) *

Monday, June 25
1. Mitzi May
2. Jean Bostic

Wednesday, June 27
1. Nick & Jesse Faris
2. Kristin Nichols

Friday, June 29
1. Leslie Jerkins
2. Bethany Stover

Monday, July 2
1. Anne Nowlin
2. Katie Land & Mandi Burke

JULY 4 – Skip

Friday, July 6
1. Beth Abraham
2. Jenny LaVelle

Monday, July 9
1. Larissa Smith
2. Kyle Smith

Wednesday, July 11
1. Carrie Portis
2. Meredith Portis Irwin

Friday, July 13
1. Casey Robertson
2. Ashley White

Neely Food Sign-Up

2007-06-13T09:41:00.000-06:00

The food list for the Neely family is now full.

If you didn't get to sign up for food, but still would like to bring some, just call the Neely's.

Call them before you come. (I haven't added the phone # for security purposes, but it was included in the email, or you can email jesse.faris@highlandcc.org if you need it.)

Go ahead and write your date on your calendar and make sure and communicate with the person you signed up with.

Thanks for signing up to do this service!

Monday, June 25
1. Kristin Nichols
2. Jean Bostic

Wednesday, June 27
1. Sara Garner
2. Randi Shirley

Friday, June 29
1.Stacey Meredith
2. Tommy & Selena Stephenson

Monday, July 9
1. Rebecca Ellis
2. Anne Nowlin

Wednesday, July 11
1. Carrie Portis
2. Heather May

Friday, July 13
1. Jesse Faris
2. Jenny LaVelle

Monday, July 16
1.Leslie Jerkins
2.Bethany Stover

Wednesday, July 18
1. Danielle Ridley
2. Angie Conway

Friday, July 20
1. Larissa Smith
2. Beth Abraham

Bart & Mitzi May

2007-06-13T09:36:00.000-06:00

Bart & Mitzi May shared this past Sunday that they will be leaving Highland--their last Sunday to worship with us will be June 24. We are so thankful for Bart's leadership in the BridgeBuilders class and the hard work he has put into teaching and leading Reach Groups. Mitzi has been such an important part of the Children's Ministry at Highland, and has helped our kids in so many ways. Please make sure you let the Mays know how thankful we are for helping lead our class. We will miss you Bart, Mitzi, and Parker!

Baby Neely

2007-06-06T11:39:00.000-06:00

Charles (Charlie)Adam Neely was born Friday, June 1st at 2:08. He weighed 8lbs and was 20 1/2 inches long. Congratulations, Neely family!

Big Brother/Big Sister Program

2007-06-06T08:51:00.000-06:00

A message from Carrie Portis:

I just got off the phone with Sharon Singleton and we are finally ready to get the Big Brother/Big Sister program together! If you singed up a few months ago, you will find your name at the bottom of this email with your "little" bro or sis. If you did not sign up to help, we would still LOVE for you to come and meet the kids and just hang out for pizza one night.

We are planning on having a Meet and Greet at Ci Ci's pizza off of Highland/Poplar on Friday night, June 22 at 6:30 p.m. Sharon is off on Friday's and wanted to come, so that is why we went with a Friday night. If you are a big brother/sister, please try to rearrange your schedule to be there! If not, you may want to try to find someone to come in your place so that your little brother/sister isn't left alone.

I talked with Sharon and told her we would cover the cost of the pizza. I haven't called CiCi's yet for a price quote, but I would love to start collecting money from the class to help cover this. Ci Ci's is not expensive, so if everyone gave $1 or $2 I would think that would be plenty? I'll try to send a basket around Sunday, but if I forget, start giving me your money. Or, if you KNOW for sure you are going to be there, you can just pay for your little's once you get there. Whatever is easiest. I just don't want Sharon to end up paying for all the kids.

Once you get there, we will mingle for a minute, find our littles and then get in line with them for pizza. We will see how it goes, but I'd love it if you could talk to your little about their favorite activities and maybe start to make a plan for picking them up once a month (or more if you'd like) for a fun day/night. Maybe the movies, the zoo, to play basketball, or just to go eat at their fave place are all ideas. Sharon will be there too so bring your calendar and hopefully yall can work out some times to do things with your little.

Email me if you have questions. And, please email me back to let me know if that date is good for you!

If you can't do this, please try to find someone else that will be willing to take over your Big Bro/Big Sis position. You can even share your position with a spouse or friend.

Thanks so much!

Carrie Portis

Assignments:

Bart/Tommy- Brandon Powell- he is in jail right now, but in need of prayers, visitors, cards, or all of the above. I place you with him before I found out about him being in jail. You are welcome to talk to Sharon about what he might need, or help Josh and Rudy with their boy. I am going to get the class to write notes to Brandon, so if writing notes is not your thing, that's ok.

Josh/Rudy- Jeremy Moore, 9 years old

Leslie Jerkins- April Sledge 17 years old In need of prayers for direction. She just graduated and is starting college and needs encouragement.

Jesse Faris- Ashley Jackson- Needs help with Algebra (not that you have to be that person, Jesse, just info about her)

Randi Shirley- Jerica Cole 13

Beth Abraham- your girls I had your paired up with went back to live with their Dad. You are welcome to help any of the other girls.

Upcoming Baby Showers

2007-05-30T14:49:00.000-06:00

Co-ed Baby Shower for Scott and Beth Abraham
Friday, June 15th at 6:30 pm at the White's

Baby Shower for Casey Robertson
Saturday, June 16th 11:00 am at Billy and Holly's mother's

Call Ashley White if you have questions: 454-9822

This Wednesday

2007-05-29T10:57:00.000-06:00

BridgeBuilders Girls:
Glenda Kiser's class came to a close last week--she did a wonderful job this series teaching Highland women about the Old Testament tabernacle and how it relates to our prayers.

Let's plan on meeting to pray together this week. Room 127 (the BridgeBuilder's classroom) See you there!

(Guys: Same subject, same place)

End of the Year Party

2007-05-23T13:41:00.000-06:00

What a great time of fellowship we had at the BridgeBuilders End of the Year Party. First off, a huge thank you to Amanda Neely for planning and coordinating this great event. She always does a fantastic job in planning our class social functions. Also, Matt gets kudos on executing his wife's plans as Amanda was attacked by a horrible virus that weekend(I hope the Neely household is feeling better). With well over 30 people attending along with a couple of dogs, it was good to just relax on a beautiful evening and enjoy a great potluck meal. Just some highlights for me from the evening include: My son holding his bottom as he ran to the porta potty, throwing football with the guys and waking up the next day to a sore arm, throwing football with the guys and realizing Randi Shirley could throw better than all of us, and I can't leave out Jenny Lavelle's famous cookies (Mmmmm). Thanks to everyone that attended and those that weren't able to make it, you were definately missed.

-Bart May

Calling All BridgeBuilders...

2007-05-22T12:25:00.001-06:00

(Per Larissa Smith's excellent suggestion...)

Give us an update!

What's new in your life?
Any prego ladies?
Engaged couples?
Job/School changes?

Also, what can we be praying about for you & your family?