Announcements & Newsletter

Announcements & Newsletter Information

Any questions concerning these activities please call the Church Office at

770-957-9890

Click Here to read a Fantastic Article about our Church and Pastor Dudley Rose

Life Lessons From the Table - Recipes to Feed the Body, Stories to Nourish the Soul...140 pages; 54 mini-chapters centered on Biblical, Church and home mealtimes; 36 recipes; $15.

Click Here to read about (and order) Rev. Dudley's new book "Life Lessons"

STEPHEN AND MARY LIZ CONCLUDING THEIR MINISTRY AT MPC

A FAREWELL FLING honoring the Ingrams, thanking them for their faithful ministries and

bidding them God's best, will be held at a luncheon in The Anchor, Sunday, June 1st.

ANNUAL SUPPER CLUB MIX-UP

Do you ever wonder what the person in pew next to you is really like? Join Supper Club and find out!! Supper Club, small, casual adult dinner groups that gather monthly, share food, fellowship and fun. It's for singles or couples, host at your own home or at a restaurant (Dutch Treat). You don't even have to host at all. Each group has a captain that helps keep things moving and organized. New to Supper Club this year is the availability of alcohol-free groups. If you are interested in participating in the next year of gatherings, please sign up at the Church Office, watch for tear-offs, or contact Tim Wirt (770-914-2093; twirt2@hotmail.com). Please make sure to note your choice of alcohol-free, traditional or no preference.

REVIVAL PRESBYTERIAN STYLE! September 19th - 20th

Friday: Dinner...Gospel Singing...Worship

Saturday: Breakfast...Small Groups...Youth and Children Programs...Service Project

Sunday: One worship Service, 10a.m. (Church School hour has not yet been decided)

Guest Preacher: The Rev. Dr. Gary Charles, Atlanta's Central Presbyterian Church

BLESSING OTHERS IN JESUS’ NAME

A husband and dad, with two children in the Henry County school system, took his own life. With no insurance because of suicide, MPC’s Kindness Fund contributed $1,400 toward funeral costs

Presbyterian Women’s Annual Birthday Offering, benefiting the rebuilding of a Presbyterian Church’s weekday school in New Orleans that was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, received $1,044

Relatives of a MPC member lost all their possessions in a house fire. Our Deacons assisted with a $400 gift credit card

Through Dudley’s volunteer ministry as a trained and certified Chaplain with the Henry County Police Department, $400 from the Kindness Fund endorsed the “Shop With A Cop” program that has officers take disadvantaged young people shopping for essentials

Kindness Fund, administered by Rachael, in April supported 13 area families / individuals with $6,077 to help pay utility, rent, medical bills, etc.

Men’s Fellowship Breakfast group (second Saturday monthly, 8-9a.m.) forwarded a gift of $375 to Haven House Shelter for Battered Women and Children whose Thrift Shop was damaged by fire

Friendship Circle sent $600 in Walmart gift cards to Lucinda Wirt’s niece, whose family lost everything in an apartment fire

Enlist in the Coin War! Change, etc., is being collected in jars near the Church Office to buy books for St. Philippe School, Trou Jacques, Haiti

Relay for Life fight against cancer luncheon April 27th, led by Bob and Nola Crane, Sherri Gamble and the youth / parent team, Jack Candy in the kitchen and Julie Garcia (Deacon’s Congregational Care Committee) produced $1,575.

THANK YOU!

FROM THE CHURCH MAILBAG

Dear Friends,

Thank you to all our church family for the gift of your caring support to Jerry and me during my illness. What a blessing McDonough Presbyterian Church has been to us.

Gratefully, Kaye Repp

Dear Church Family,

Thank you so much for the memorial gift you gave to the Methodist Home for Children in memory of my father. The cards and prayers are a great source of comfort to me.

Thank you again for all your support. Love, Lynn Lowrey

Dear McDonough Presbyterian Church Family,

Thank you for the cards, phone calls, prayers and visits before and after my recent eye surgery. I can now clearly see how important you are to me and my family

Greg Hammonds

Dear Friends In The Faith,

The shower of cards following my mother's death, with beautiful and loving handwritten notes, touched and comforted me and my family in a profound way.

With Great Appreciation,

Dorothy Rose

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Building Houses, Building Hope

GOLF TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER

Tuesday, May 13th, 9:30a.m.

Eagle’s Brooke Country Club, Locust Grove

Contribution: $500 (Foursomes) $125 (Individual)

Meet Legendary Golf Pro, Jerry Pate

Specifics from MPC’s Cara Welch: 770-477-2367 or

carawelch@schabitat.org

CHANCEL FLOWERS

Created by Cyndi Israel; New Pricing: Two Sanctuary vases, $65...One Communion Table arrangement, $40

Those who already have signed up at the $40 per two vases are not expected to pay the increased cost...Dates are available on the Flower Chart in the Church Office.

CHANGEONELIFE, INC.

The Mother's Milk Project is offering Mother's Day cards in several different styles.

Original artwork is done by Chris Seckinger, Olivia Seckinger, Maggie Gansel and Mary Liz Ingram. Money collected will go to provide formula for AIDS

infected mothers in Kenya.

DEACON’S LOCAL MISSION PROJECT FOR MAY

Eyeglasses, hearing aids and cell phones are being collected. They will be forwarded to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation in Decatur where the glasses and hearing aids are reconditioned and distributed to those in need locally or outside the country, and cell phones are sold for parts / scrap and proceeds used to fund surgeries, etc. Collection boxes are available throughout the Church buildings.

P.S. April’s local mission project, helping with repairs at A Friend’s House, was supported by Todd Harvey, Bob Crane, Bo Dyess, Sally Hale, Patrick Healy, Rachael Knoll and Peter Thornton.

ELDER EMERITUS

MPC’s creative new way of honoring ordained spiritual lay leaders in our congregational life.

Session’s guidelines, established March, 2008:

nominated by family or friends; (2) elected by Session; (3) minimum age, 65 years; (4) at least 20 years of service to MPC as an Elder; (5) deceased or alive; (6) will not again be elected as an Elder in active service; (7) recognized at a worship Service with a Certificate of Appreciation presented to Elder or next of kin; (8) plaque, with names of Elders Emeritus, will be placed in Heritage Hall; (9) may be asked to represent MPC at Presbytery meeting and to serve as Honorary Pallbearers at Elder’s funeral Services (with the family’s permission). Please forward nominee’s names to Dottie Wise, Clerk of Session: wisemove@bellsouth.net or 101 Ben Horton Drive, McDonough, Ga. 30253, or to the Church Office.

GO-GO'S (55+ years)

The May 15th trip is to Barnsley Gardens in Adairsville. Lunch will be on the grounds (on site restaurant). The church bus will depart at 8:30. Questions welcomed!Robbie Robinson, Coordinator (770-957-2503).

CHILDREN'S CHOIR SPRING CONCERT

Including Youth Handchime Choir

Sunday, May 4th, 3p.m., The Anchor.

Sacred (African Spirituals) and Secular

(American folksongs, Broadway hits).

Araminta Montague, Director

Childcare available: 2:45-4p.m.

PENTECOST ANNUAL OFFERING

Received At Worship May 11th

The Pentecost Offering supports mission with children at risk, youth and young adults through the following ministries:

Congregational ministries on behalf of children at risk (40%)

General Assembly ministries with youth and young adults (25%)

Advocacy at the denominational level on behalf of children at risk (10%)

PC(USA) Young Adult Volunteer opportunities (25%)

MOTHER'S DAY BREAKFAST

Sunday, May 11th, 9-10a.m., The Anchor

Pancakes and toppings, bacon and beverages

Adults: $5 Children (10 and younger): $3

Benefits Youth Summer Mission Trips

DEBT REDUCTION CAMPAIGN

The Journey of Faith continues;

Commitment Sunday: May 4th;

Goal: eliminate our $335,000 short-term loan;

Pledge cards available at worship.

NEW NURSERY STAFF

(Director and Assistants) have been hired! As soon as the background checks have been completed, MPC's Christian Education Committee will introduce them to us.

MAY'S BIRTHDAYS

1 - Greg Cannon, Gene Minter

2 - Will Snipes, John Wadsworth

3 - Tyra Crowe, Larry Day, Suzette Rainer,

Ryan Siegel, Arloia Walton

4 - Rodney Bowler, Celeste Crane, Reese Kilgallen

5 - Regenia Lindsey

6 - Arch Brown

9 - Emerson Elliott, Angie Ross, Todd Schmidt

10 - Marjorie Lacy

11 - Kyle Bowler, Evan Hammonds, Lisa Snipes

12 - Dorothy Beaty, Brooke Becker, Loretta Davila, Phil Smucker

13 - Jimmye Hammonds

14 - Kathi Lee, Jeff Upchurch, Kiefer Wirt

15 - Jane Dickerson, Joel Rowan

16 - Krista Safrit, Dee Sullins, Samantha White

17 - Jamie Nading

18 - Jessica Darwin, Sally Hale, Prue Sutton

19 - Bruce Dickerson, Harriet Reedy,

Aubrey Robinson, Fritzie Schrade

21 - Brad Lundstrom, Lisa Tush

22 - Karen Campbell, Lauren Harris

23 - Madison Creath, Micah Creath, Jessica Kilgallen, Connie Kirkpatrick, Matt Portwood

24 - Katlyn McBrayer

25 - Tom Green, Melissa Malcom, Amanda Standard

26 - Gene Babb

27 - Tucker Hammonds, Patrick Healy

28 - James Withers

29 - Lauren Cook, Bob Crane, Mary Jane Portwood

30 - Peggy Minter, Bill Reit, Mary Emma Shanahan, Rita Steele

31 - Lily Kowall

From Here Down is the April Newsletter

CHILDREN'S CHOIR SPRING CONCERT

Under Araminta Montague's inspired direction the thirty-

voice Choir will offer sacred and secular music, including

American folksongs, African Spirituals and Broadway hits;

Sunday, May 4th, 3p.m., The Anchor.

RECYCLING T-SHIRTS

Saving Grace Presbyterian Women’s Circle solicits the t-shirts you no longer wear but don’t want to throw out, especially those with logos (colleges, vacation spots, concerts, etc.) as a fundraiser benefiting Relay for Life fight against cancer.

LOCAL MISSION SERVICE DAY

Saturday, April 5th; meet at the Church at 8a.m. and go either to A Friend's House to do odd jobs or Haven House to paint. For details, contact Todd Harvey, Deacon, 678-583-9024; tmharv@earthlink.net

THANK YOU

SERVPRO of Henry and Spalding County, a franchise owned by MPC's Danny and Patti Brown (employees include Heather Anglyn and Eric Schwadron) spent a day cleaning the mats in The Anchor at a greatly reduced rate;

A group of MPC men, led by Tim Wirt, hosted 20 men March 30th from Atlanta's Presbyterian Clifton Shelter for dinner, activities and fellowship;

Jack Candy, after years of serving us well as Head Usher and provider of Sunday morning's Coffee Fellowship, is retiring;

David Shedd teaches a group of 40 in the 13 session Debt Free In The Kingdom ministry using Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University Biblically based video presentations;

Kelly and Kathi Lee (L & M Business Forms) are producing, at a reduced rate, printed material for Mike Griffin's ChangeOneLife, Inc.'s Mother's Milk Project which will bless babies of HIV-positive mothers in Kenya with infant formula through Presbyterian missionary Dr. Salvador de la Torre;

Our website is being updated and enhanced by Kim Griffin and Julie Garcia in cooperation with Roger and Patricia Pack;

Chancel Choir and musicians again helped assure that our Lenten, Holy Week and Easter worship experiences were meaningful spiritual encounters with the Holy One;

Deaconfs Congregational Care Committee, guided by Julie Garcia, Dee Sanders and Mike Wigington, treated about 300! to a first-class Palm Sunday luncheon and children's Easter Egg Hunt;

Marchfs Blood Drive, a Deacon's ministry led by Rick Berry, yielded 41 pints;

Tom Wise recently concluded two years of dedicated service on an Administrative Commission representing Presbytery's Committee on Ministry with an area Presbyterian Church that was experiencing conflict;

Johnny Rucker (The Rucker Agency) donated, on behalf of MPC, two ping-pong tablesto A Friend's House.

DEBT REDUCTION CAMPAIGN - A JOURNEY OF FAITH CONTINUES

Commitment Sunday, May 4th, 2008

Campaign Chairs: Elders Rod Meadows, Johnny Rucker and Buddy Welch; Treasurer, Lewis Robinson

Amount Of Our 2004 Expansion And Renovation Program: $3,498,517

Amount Paid , To Date, Through Journey Of Faith Contributions: $2,318,119 (Thank You!)

Current Indebtedness: $335,000 (Short-Term Loan), $844,398 (Long-Term Loan)

Goal Of Our New Three Year Debt Reduction Campaign: $400,000

Not Equal Gifts But Equal Sacrifices

Imagine what God-pleasing ministries we can expand once the short-term loan payments are eliminated!

Share God’s Gifts - Serve One Another

"As each has received gifts from God, use them for one another

as good stewards / trustees of God’s manifold / varied grace."

(I Peter 4:10)

FROM THE CHURCH MAILBAG

Rachael Knoll, Kathi Lee and Beth Williams came to my home and presented me with an exquisite pink shawl Beth knitted. My shawl is special as it has been blessed by Dudley and the children of the church. I lost my husband in December and my shawl has been a great source of comfort in that when I wrap it around me (which is often) it is indeed like a warm hug. I wish there were words to tell you what it has meant to me. Your remembering me is such a beautiful act of Christian compassion and love.

God Bless Each Of You, Ann Eldridge

MPC Church Family,

Thank you so much for your care, concern, and support during the past 18 months of my dad's illness and death. Your prayers have kept us lifted up to God. The love of Jesus and friends like you have made it easier to meet lifefs challenges. We appreciate the cards, the calls, the food, the visits, and the continuing Christian friendship.

Yours in Christ, Debra, Danny and Josh Brown

and The Paul Davis Family

PONDERABLE

(From Frederick Niedner, Chair, Theology Department, Valparaiso University; in

Christian Century magazine)

The two Marys who visited Jesus' tomb carried a burden. They had witnessed Golgotha's horror and surely wanted to say something. They couldn't get close, however, because soldiers were guarding Jesus' tomb lest anybody get in - or out. Frightened officials had dispatched them. What were the officials afraid of? Body snatching and a phony resurrection story, said the official troop requisition. Maybe they were also afraid that the young Teacher might reappear. What if He did? Was He dangerous? Might He harm someone - the priests who had condemned Him or the officials who had executed Him, perhaps? What would He say if He rose from the dead?

Jesus' disciples had their own reasons for not wanting to see Him again. They had fled, leaving Him to face death alone. Would Jesus say, Well, how nice to see you guys! Where have you been? Peter, do you know Me this time?"

Fear Not, the angel said to the Marys. "You won"t find Him here. Go, tell His disciples and hurry to Galilee. There you'l see Him" They left with great joy, Matthew says, but fearful too. Did they really want to see Him? What would He say?

They soon find out. Jesus met them and immediately said, "Xairete!" This multipurpose word, like shalom or aloha, means, "Hello, good-bye," even, "What's up?" At root however, it means, "Rejoice!" "Rejoice! Tell My brothers to meet Me."

My brothers! After all that transpired, we are still a family! He hadn't come back to get revenge or condemn anyone. No, He returned to gather His family. Our sins and betrayals died with Him. He took them to His grave and now He's come back without them!

With a single hymn let us strike out joyfully for Galilee: "The Lord is risen! Alleluia!"

NEW NURSERY DIRECTOR

Interview are being conducted to employ Jodi Blevins’ replacement. Stay tuned!

MPC PRESCHOOL ACADEMY

In March our students learned John 3:16 and once they memorized it, they added a cross with their name on it to the large cross in the hallway. The children enjoyed learning about Jesus and how He gives us new life.

A trailer is located across from the playground to receive used clothes, towels, sheets, etc. Please keep us in mind when you are doing your spring cleaning. The money raised will aid the Preschool in better serving the children.

We are now registering children for the 2008-2009 school year. There are spaces available for ages 1 - Kindergarten. If you or someone you know is interested in touring the school and / or registering for next year, please contact Melissa Mobley. The school is also in the process of hiring teachers and paraprofessionals for the coming year. Resumes and questions about the positions can be directed to Melissa Mobley or Kelley Sparks (770-957-9890).

REVIVAL - PRESBYTERIAN STYLE!

An exciting and creative weekend at MPC, September 19th - 21st. Guest Preacher, Dr. Gary Charles (Atlanta’s Central Presbyterian) on the theme, “The Church in Oz - Signs of a Vital Congregation." Meal times, small group seminars, children’s and youth events, “change of pace" music, a service project.

Interested in helping plan details of the celebration? Please be in touch with Dudley.

CONFIRMATION I RETREAT

Fifth graders spend April 26th at Calvin Center with Mary Liz, Director of Children’s Ministry, on a day long event as a significant part of their spiritual development in the unique two-part Confirmation training (Confirmation II is offered for 9th graders) she and Stephen created.

Simultaneously, Dudley will meet with the young people’s parents to continue the discussion of their responsibilities in the process (the parents gather each Sunday with Chris and Beth Gansel as part of the Confirmation I curriculum).

MONEY TALK(S)

Youth Group Pancake Breakfast yielded $600 toward summer mission trips… _ One hundred Bible, $515 (English, Spanish and Chinese) were gifted to those in prison… _ Annual One Great Hour of Sharing Offering: $1053... _ Fourth Grade Sunday School “Noisy Offering” mission project March 9th produced $137... _ March’s expenditure from the Kindness Fund, $4,905, assisted 9 area individuals / families with utility, rent, medical and food bills.

JR. HIGH CIVIL RIGHTS PILGRIMAGE

Our nation is greatly in debt to those men and women who marched, protested, suffered violence and died for racial equality in America. April 18-20 our Jr. High Youth led by Stephen Ingram, Director of Youth Ministry, and accompanied by chaperones, will honor these heroes by taking a pilgrimage to Montgomery and Birmingham, tracing the steps of Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr.; visit MLKfs parsonage; the corner where Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat; the churches where the Civil Rights Movement began and where it was solidified when four little girls were killed in a hate-based bombing.

DIANNE CARDELL

2008 Presbyterian Women’s Lifetime Membership Recipient

Unlike many of us, Dianne grew up in the Presbyterian tradition and specifically in McDonough Presbyterian. She and Don lived in town and, for a while, didn’t have a car to drive to Timberridge Presbyterian where the rest of their relatives attended Services, so they walked to MPC (which was in downtown McDonough at the time) and the whole family became devoted members of this church.

Our Lifetime Membership Recipient has given of herself in many ways. She is a Deacon, active in Sunday School, and a driving force in the Early Risers Presbyterian Women’s Circle, having many a 7a.m. breakfast at her home and annually hosting the Christmas brunch. A lover of the seniors in the church, Dianne bakes for, and visits, those in need and is wonderful about sending cards. She is one of God’s angels who likes to fly well under the radar so that many don’t even begin to know all the wonderful ways she serves. She and Don have been active in the Blue Denim Supper Club for many years. She says this is a great way of getting to know a lot of the new folks in our church.

She participates in numerous community activities, often serving with the Lion’s Club through her husband’s involvement. The Shingleroof Campgrounds would not be the same without the Cardells. Dianne is there each year to provide a hot meal or a bed. She has also completed more than one successful career with local employers and is known and loved by many in this town.

Dianne is extremely family focused and constantly helps her daughters with the grandchildren and at the same time assisting her parents on a daily basis...all the while remaining a superb Christian spouse.

One could not ask for a better friend. (Prepared by Wilma Miller)

GO-GO’s (55+ years):

Robbie Robinson has arranged a grand overnight excursion to Asheville, NC, including visiting the Biltmore Estate; depart on the Church bus Friday morning, April 18th, return Saturday night; details from Robbie: 770-957-2503 (home), 678-300-9788 (cell), or robi2503@bellsouth.net.

From Here Down is the March Newsletter

PRISON MINISTRY

(From The Presbyterian Outlook, a nationally distributed magazine of our Presbyterian Church; January, 2008)

Michael Nance is an inmate on death row in the State prison at Jackson, Ga. As part of the ministry of McDonough Church in McDonough, Ga., the head of staff, Dudley Rose, and church members Rita and Bob Steele, regularly visit Michael. Converted and baptized in prison, he recently asked to become a member of the church. Special arrangements were made through Ed Albright, executive presbyter and stated clerk of the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, to receive him. Michael contributes to the life of the church by praying daily for the congregation, tithing the money he receives, and contributing his original artwork for use by the church.

MPC'S PRESCHOOL ACADEMY

Melissa Mobley, Director 770-957-9890

(12 months - K5)

Current enrollment: 85

Teachers and administrators: 20

2 openings for 2s on M/W; 2 openings for 2s on T/Th; 5 openings for 2s on Friday

5 openings for 3s M-F; 2 openings for 3s M/W/F...9 openings for 4s M-Th...11 openings for 5 day kindergarten

Also Needed: a good, used copier

New MINISTRY UNDERWAY

Knitting shawls as the group practices the presence of God; Wednesday, 6:45p.m.; the shawls are presented to members and friends of MPC as a lovely gift reminding the recipients that the Lord is with them at all times; details from Beth Williams (770-957-2076) and Cyndi Israel (770-954-1774).

YOUTH MINISTRY

Sr. High Camp Calvin Retreat: March 8-9... March 26th: Sr. High serve at the Food Pantry;

Jr. High enjoy game night in The Anchor... Wednesdays (6:30p.m.) Bible Study theme: Jesus asked, Who do you say that I am?

Sr. High Mission Trip: June 14-20; Memphis, TN; theme: social justice; partnering with Idlewild P.C.

Jr. High Mission Trip: July 13-18; Louisville, KY; theme: Presbyterian missions through our denomination's national office.

MOWING MINISTRY

MPC's 2008 Operating Budget would be helped immensely if a group of volunteers mowed the Church lawns occasionally between April and October (we pay a lawn service $1,000 per month!). Elders Bob Crane (rcrane.rcspecialty@mindspring.com; 770-914-8683) and Chuck Standard (770-954-9511; kilroys@gmail.com) will be delighted to hear from you.

FROM THE CHURCH MAILBAG

My cousin, Randy Trowell, is home safe and sound from his second tour in Iraq. Even better news is that he will be stationed in Columbia, SC. Thank you to everyone who prayed for his well-being. Please continue to pray for Randy's brother (and my cousin), Cale Hunchusky, who should be home from Iraq by the end of April.

Your prayers mean so much to my family and me. Deric Garcia

Dear Friends,

It's a great honor and pleasure to be a part of such a caring church family. T.P. and I very much appreciate your prayers, cards, phone calls, visits and food. We feel so blessed because his health has improved so much. God surely had a part in it. T.P. is anxiously and patiently waiting for spring when he can return to his favorite beach. Life is good and we are so appreciative.

Much love, Willene Stewart

CONTACT INFORMATION REQUESTED

The Deaconfs Congregational Care Committee would like to keep in touch with our college students and military personnel serving away from home. Please contact the Church Office (770-957-9890) and give Laura Wigington his / her name and address.

MPC'S COMPUTER SPECIALISTS

Roger and Patricia Pack do a wonderful job maintaining our Church website. Recently Alyssa Standard, Chuck and Rayna's 7th grade daughter, created an informational program about our congregational life to be displayed on the monitor near the Church Office. Willing to share similar talents with your Church family? Let Laura know, please, and we all will be grateful!

CHURCH OFFICER'S ANNUAL RETREAT A SUMMARY

The 2008 Elders, Deacons, MPC's three clergy and Stephen Ingram, Director of Youth Ministry,

gathered at Presbytery's Calvin Center Friday evening through Saturday afternoon, February 8 - 9th.

Session members accepted the following Committee responsibilities for 2008:

Dottie Wise (Clerk); Rita Steele (Associate Clerk); Beth Healy and Danny Brown (Christian Education);

Bo Dyess and Angie Ross (Global Missions); Cyndi Israel, Elaine Hopkins and

Birgitta Upchurch (Worship and Evangelism); Bob Crane and Chuck Standard (Church Property);

Rod Meadows, Buddy Welch and Johnny Rucker (Administration, which includes Personnel, Finance and

Stewardship); Jessica Gansel, Youth Elder, is available to all Committees as a consultant.

Deacons, with Moderator Dee Anglyn, will carry out their ministriesunder two major Committees: Congregational Nurture and Local

Missions.We had an invigorating discussion of the recent book participants read in preparation for the

Retreat: Christianity for the Rest of Us -How the Neighborhood Church Is Transforming the Faith, byDiana Butler Bass.

It is expected that some of the insights will bearhelpful fruit in MPC's life.

Two Elders, representing the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta's New Church Development Commission, presented us with an opportunity

to take the lead in assisting Presbytery organize a new church in the Locust Grove area.

We endorsed the idea with pledges to: invite members

and friends of MPC who feel led by God's Spirit to volunteer as short-term missionaries

to help in the early development of the new congregation; (2) provide $25,000 over a period

of time as seed money for the salary of the Organizing Pastor.

The spiritual leaders of MPC accepted Dudley's idea of a Revival - Presbyterian Style,

a special weekend (September 19-21...hurry back from fall school break!) with Guest Preacher,

The Rev. Dr. Gary Charles ( Head of Staff, Atlanta's Central Presbyterian Church,

on the theme The Church in Oz - Signs of a Vital Congregation ), small groups,

children / youth activities, meals, music and a service project.

As productive as our time was, of equal significance was the bonding resulting from the fun and fellowship of being together.

The Retreat concluded on a perfect note: worship led by Jessica Gansel and Laura Lowrey, our Youth Elder and Deacon.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

(Youth Mission Trip Fundraiser)

Sunday, March 2nd

9-10a.m., The Anchor

Adults / Youth, $5

Children under 10 years, $3

Pancakes, assorted toppings,bacon and beverages

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING OFFERING

Received Palm Sunday

March 16th in special pew envelopes.

Supports Self-Development of People, Presbyterian Disaster

Assistance and Presbyterian Hunger Program

KINDNESS FUND

Souper Bowl of Caring Offering ($372) benefited the Fund that in February assisted 9 area individuals / families

with $2,412 to help pay rent, utility, food and medical bills.

Your special gifts to the Fund are appreciated, and please Jesus

PALM SUNDAY (March 16th)

LUNCHEON AND EASTER EGG HUNT

Noon in The Anchor Family Life Center

Ham, bread and beverages provided; please bring the following according to your last name's initial: A-G, a hot side dish or casserole; H-L, dessert; M-R, salad and S-Z, vegetable parents, provide one dozen filled eggs (no chocolate, please) per child up to grade 5; place in appropriate box near The Anchor. Please RSVP on the bulletin tear-off or by calling the Church Office.

CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

For the safety of our children, and a quieter Wonderful Wednesday dining experience in The Anchor, will you offer to take a turn supervising the young ones from 6:15-6:45p.m. on Wednesdays by keeping an eye on them on the playground or in a room while they watch a video? Beth Healy, Elder (678-289-5704; bethhealy@bellsouth.net), will appreciate your offer.

Applications for the paid position of Nursery Director are being received. Jodi Blevins, who has filled this position magnificently, is retiring. The job description and salary are available through the Church Office.

DEBT FREE IN THE KINGDOM

A 13 week course ($93 per family) by Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University; Biblically based video presentations teaching how to beat debt, build wealth and give like never before! Begins March 11th, 7p.m., in the Good News Classroom (near the Church Office).

EASTER LILIES / KINDNESS FUND

Orders for lilies ($10 each), and/or gifts to the Kindness Fund in memory / honor of loved ones, are being received on Sunday bulletin tear-offs or by calling the Church Office. Deadline: March 16th.

PICTORIAL CHURCH DIRECTORY

(on a wall in the long hallway ): Robbie Robinson, Deacon, is available most Sunday mornings by the Directory to update or add your photo. Please help your Church family put names and faces together.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE:

an MPC Deacon sponsored ministry; Monday, March 17th, 2-7p.m.; appointments: www.givelife.org or call Rick Berry, coordinator (678-583-6742).

February Newsletter From Here Down

SAFE DRIVING COURSE

The AARP Driver Safety course will be conducted in the Good News Sunday School classroom on Wednesday and Thursday, February 20 and 21, 1-5p.m. Cost is $10 (and you will save on your auto insurance premiums!). Questions or registration, please call Bob Williams, 770-957-2076.

SHORT, SWEET AND SIGNIFICANT

Elders and Deacons Annual Retreat, Calvin Center, February 8th-9th;

Presbytery of Greater Atlanta meeting, February 23rd; Dudley, Rachael and Elders Bob Crane, Birgitta Upchurch and Angie Ross represent MPC;

Men’s Fellowship Breakfast, February 9th, 8-9a.m.;

Presbyterian Women :

Annie Ola Sudderth Circle, Tuesday, Feb. 12, 1p.m., Parlor

Saving Grace, Thursday, Feb. 21st, 7p.m., at Teressa Staten’s

Friendship Circle, Tuesday, Feb. 26, 6:15p.m. at Tracey Patterson’s

Early Riser’s, Thursday, Feb. 28th, 8a.m., Chapel area

Go-Go’s (55+ years):

We have rescheduled our tour of the Fox Theatre for February 21st; leave the church on the bus at 8:30a.m.; tour is $5, bring money for lunch. Questions? Call Robbie Robinson, Coordinator (770-957-2503);

Kindness Fund in January assisted 8 local families with $3,509 to help pay utility, rent, food and medical bills;

Youth Ministry:

Feb. 2nd: Sr. High trash pick-up, 10a.m., lunch and Whirlyball

Feb. 3rd: Souper Bowl of Caring

Feb. 8-10: Confirmation II Silence and Solitude Retreat, Calvin Center;

Children’s Ministry:

Feb. 3rd: 2nd graders and parents meet with Beth Healy in the tiled room of the Chapel area, 9:40a.m. for a

Milestone workshop on Devotions and Family Time

Feb. 3rd: 5th grade Confirmation I begins with a youth/parent meeting in the Chapel, 9:40a.m.

Adult Christian Education:

Six Sunday School classes available (9:40a.m.)...three Wonderful Wednesday courses (6:45-7:45p.m.)...Tuesday noon Bible Study (“Revelation).

CHANGE ONE LIFE

Dear MPC Family,

I am pleased to report that 20,000 pill boxes have been sent to Kenya to help AIDS patients receiving anti-retroviral treatments through the Christian Health Assoc. of Kenya. Dr. Salvador de la Torre, a Presbyterian missionary in Kenya, said that the pill boxes are critical to helping AIDS patients maintain good pill management and adherence to treatment.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support for this AIDS Alive Project. The total cost for manufacturing and shipping the pill boxes was just over $10,000. We learned a great deal in this process including that it costs us almost as much to ship the pill boxes as it did to purchase them and that shipping overseas is a strictly regulated activity including special pallets and TSA (Transportation Security Administration) approval.

Please pray for the people in Kenya living with HIV and those impacted by the recent post-election violence.

Sincerely,

Mike Griffin, President, ChangeOneLife, Inc

PANCAKE BREAKFAST YOUTH FUNDRAISER FOR SUMMER MISSION TRIPS

Sunday, March 2nd --- 9-10a.m.

The Anchor

$5 for Adults and Youth

$3 for Children 10 and under

Bacon, Pancakes with assorted toppings,

beverages. Reservations a must! Please see the bulletin tear-offs or the sign-up sheet in the Church Office.

PONDERABLE

(From the 2006 book, “Summerall - On and Off the Air" by Pat Summerall, former pro football player, sportscaster and recovering alcoholic)

Following the intervention that took me to treatment, and after my initial five-day rant, I grew gradually more receptive to the counselors. Instead of trying to manipulate the situation, I began participating in the meetings with the feeling that I might as well learn something while I was there.

The Betty Ford Center is a top-of-the-line addition facility, but they keep some of the accommodations intentionally sparse. They only give you two books to read - the Alcoholics Anonymous book and the Bible.

I read the AA book a few times and put it aside. But I kept coming back to the Bible. To my surprise I found it engrossing, like some codebook to a world I’d heard about but never delved into . Since the days of Sunday School at the First Methodist Church in Lake City, FL, I’d had no exposure to the Bible.

There were guys on some of my pro teams who talked about being Christian, and the Catholic players would often go to Sunday Mass together. But I had little to no interest in religion. Professional football teams are as steeped in the jock mentality as any group you’ll likely encounter, and, back then, it was almost a sign of weakness to talk seriously about God or faith.

At the Betty Ford Clinic, it was an entirely different environment. Religion and faith and the teachings in the Bible are integral parts of the recovery program. So there was no avoiding it, and after the first week or so, I was actually intrigued by it.

My anger and my desire to drink disappeared. I began to feel more human. I found myself taking an active role in the sessions. Before long, I was leading some of them. A light was coming on. Never much for introspection, I was being forced to look at life as I never had before.

NURSERY MINISTRY

MPC’s outstanding ministry starts with our youngest members. The Nursery Program needs volunteers to care for the children in our infant, toddler and three-year-old rooms. Whether you have children in the nursery now, have used the nursery in the past or might use it in the future, we need your help!

We aren't just babysitting - we are sharing God’s love. Please join us by signing up on the calendar in the nursery for the Sundays that work for you

.For additional information, please contact Beth Healy, Elder (678-289-5704) or Jodi Blevins, Nursery Director, (678-583-2913).

MEN’S CHURCH LEAGUE SOFTBALL

If you are interested in playing on MPC’s team this year, please contact Matt Kilgallen (770-954-0640).

FROM THE CHURCH MAILBAG

McDonough Presbyterian leads the way in supporting The Food Pantry’s ministry, and all of us thank God as we thank you! In 2007 we served 28,358 needy Henry County residents, including 12,683 children under 18 years and 1,623 senior citizens. We are grateful for your faithful support.

Donna Crumbley, President

The Tabernacle of God Ministries thank you for opening your doors to provide us a place to worship. We were honored to have your Chapel for use as a developing congregation, and will always remember McDonough Presbyterian with thanksgiving.

Debby Harvey, Pastor

I would like to thank all of those who supported our fundraiser for Relay for Life fight against cancer, Saving Grace team. The ticket sales for the Christmas Wreath was a great success and the winner was Judy Davis. Judy and John thought the wreath looked so nice in the lounge area above the sofa that they graciously donated the wreath to the Church to be used in years to come. Thanks again to everyone!

Nola Crane Co-Chair for Henry County Relay for Life 2008

Thanks so much for the food brought to the house the day of Glynda’s funeral. McDonough Presbyterian is a wonderful church. Glynda and I both felt comfortable there.

Milton Wroten

Dear Friends,

Your prayers, cards, calls and visits have been such a special blessing to Ed and me since my surgery in early December. I send my love and a prayer that God’s love will bless each of you in some very special way as you have blessed us. I’m so very thankful for McDonough Presbyterian Church.

Susy Booker

We wanted to thank our wonderful church friends for your continual support during J.B.’s illness and at the time of his death. Maybe you baked your favorite dish, dropped by for a visit, made a phone call or perhaps whispered a prayer to God. Your cards, flowers, food from the Women of the Church or the gift of the Men’s “Ensemble” at the Service were all tender gifts of kindness. You have touched our hearts and given us strength to face each day.

Blessings and love,

Martha Russell and family

Dear Church Family,

Doug’s nephew, Ryan Debacker, has returned safely from military duty in Iraq. We thank God as we thank MPC for your prayer support.

Gratefully, The Doug Laverty Family

"DEBT FREE IN THE KINGDOM"

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University is a

biblically-based, video-driven small group study

that teaches families to beat debt, build wealth

and give like never before!

THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU IF

Your credit cards ARE your emergency fund.

Your dog responds to the name “Ebay."

You have to sell your house to put your kids through college.

You’re intrigued by the word “plasectomy."

You want to know what God says about money.

Stocks, Bonds and Mutual Funds are friends you haven’t met yet.

A Ministry of McDonough Presbyterian’s Session

Information Meetings

Sunday, February 24th after 11a.m. worship or

Tuesday, February 26th, 7p.m.

Good News Classroom

(Near the Church Office)

CHURCH LOAN RE-STRUCTURED

Of the four banks who offered proposals, McIntosh State Bank’s was the most advantageous to MPC.

LONG TERM LOAN: $900,000

6.2% fixed interest rate for term of loan;

120 month term (monthly payments, principal and interest) based on 30 year amortization (any unpaid principal and interest payable at maturity (ten years);

No closing costs or fees;

In lieu of security, MPC executes a negative pledge on all real property owned.

SHORT TERM LOAN, $335,000

6.05% fixed interest for term of loan;

48 month term (monthly payments, principal and interest);

Collateral: same as long term loan.

2007 ANNUAL REPORT, Highlights

MISSION :

(“Serving Others Beyond Sunday Morning"): first annual Alternative Christmas Gift Bazaar yielded $7,750 to support ChangeOneLife, Inc., LaGonave (Haiti) mission, Hands of Hope Free Christian Medical and Dental Clinic, Haven House Shelter for Battered Women and Children, Helping In His Name Food Pantry, Thornwell Home and School for Children, A Friend’s House, Rivers of the World...Relay for Life (American Cancer Society) brought recognition for a Church Youth Group raising $10,329 (the largest amount in Henry County), as well as the most raised by a church and third most of all organizations in Henry County ($21,140)… ChangeOneLife, Inc. (“Healing and Hope on The Web") fundraiser featuring “Forever Plaid" produced $5,500...Ten person mission team served Christ and residents of Haiti...Annual Stewardship of Time and Talents Fair...Deacon sponsored blood drives yielded more than 300 pints...Our facilities used by three developing Churches and eleven groups from the community...Kindness Fund assisted area residents with nearly $60,000 to pay utility, rent, food and medical bills.

MUSIC:

Chancel Choir Easter and Christmas cantatas; A Joyful Ring Handbell Choir; awards to our Children’s Choir in competition at Six Flags Over Georgia; New Youth Choir; Cherub Choir.

STATISTICALLY:

35 new members (13 by Re-Affirmation of Faith, 17 by Letter of Transfer, 5 by Affirmation of Faith); 6 transfers to others churches, 19 placed on the Inactive Roll, 30 removed due to inactivity… Baptisms: 15 (2 adult, 9 infant, 4 children)...Births: 7...Deaths: 8

YOUTH AND CHILDREN’S MINISTRY:

Beach and ski retreats...lock-ins...fundraisers...children’s Sacraments workshop...Vacation Bible School...Confirmation I (5th grade) and II (9th grade)...mission service projects...youth Elder and Deacon elected...Rally Day...Youth Sunday...Gregory Shedd, Eagle Scout...Sunday School...Youth Group study themes: “A Year of Hope; A Life of Service”…“Learning from the Monastic Lifestyle” …“ Being a Disciple in a Dot.Com World” Children’s study themes: “Following Jesus’ Footsteps" “Believing Jesus Lives" “Stewardship”…“David, the King”…“Prayer and Thanksgiving."

FINANCES:

Special financial gift from Burt and Mary Blackmon...house deeded to MPC by Fran Foster… Operating Budget 2007 Surplus: $71,000...2008 Budget: $740,000 ($10,000 designated to additional local and global mission projects in 2008)5Preschool Academy fundraisers and contributions produced $18,471… Building Fund indebtedness: $1,229,392.

ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION:

Sunday School themes: “Tackling Tough Topics” “How Do You Know God’s Your Father?"…“Jesus’ Original Disciples” “If You Want to Walk on Water, You Have to Get Out of the Boat”… “A New Community in Christ” “Big Christianity"…“Getting Acquainted with Your Bible” “Personal Finance from a Christian Perspective"…“Committed to Doing Right” " St. Augustine for the Armchair Theologian"… “The Ministry of Paul” “The Gospel of John"…“Unbinding the Gospel - Real Life Evangelism” “God Created a People” Wonderful Wednesday themes: “Tackling Tough Topics”...“Return of the Prodigal Son"…“Discovering the Bible” (Kerygma) “Finding God in the Questions"…“Bible Studies at the Movies” “Knitting Into the Mystery"

WORSHIP:

Renewal of Marriage Vows...Dialogue sermon with Jeff Alvey, a Jewish convert to Christianity… Seder Meal Service...Stations of the Cross...Daybreak Communion...U2-Bono Liturgy...Jill Shedd’s Christmas dialogue message...Youth Sunday...Jane Robinson’s “From Dinner to Death"...Community Sunrise and Thanksgiving Services.

AND:

Blue Denim Supper Clubs...Resurrection Garden begun...Presbyterian Women...Men’s Breakfast...Go-Go’s (55+)...Empty Nesters...Annual Officer’s Retreat...Dudley’s book published...Wonderful Wednesday meals, including A Provencal Dinner.

January Newsletter From Here Down

KINDNESS FUND

Special gifts from generous members and friends made it possible for Rachael, on behalf of MPC, to assist 12 area families in December with $6,101 to help with utility, rent and food bills, along with Christmas gifts for children. Thank you!

ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Sunday Church School, 9:40a.m.; six adult classes are available.

Wednesdays, 6:45p.m., beginning January 9th; (Dinner available, 5:45-6:45p.m., January 9th and 23rd; a committee of Deacons and Elders, meeting with Rachael, are working on a plan to make Wednesday meals available weekly beginning in February);

Dudley’s discussion group on the Apostles’ Creed, the Sacraments, Ten Commandments and the Lord’s Prayer (using the 1998 Study Catechism of our Presbyterian Church);

Rachael leads, on Wednesdays, 6:45p.m., an in-depth 14 week Kerygma study of The Book of Revelation- Visions for the Church in Crisis($20); the same material will be discussed with Rachael at noon (bring a sack lunch) on Tuesdays beginning January 8th.

SHORT, SWEET BUT SIGNIFICANT

Men's Breakfast, Saturday, Jan. 12th, 8-9a.m.

Presbyterian Women:

Annie Ola Sudderth Circle, Tuesday, January 8th, 1p.m. in the Parlor.

Saving Grace, Thursday, January 17th, 7p.m., Olive Garden on Jonesboro Road.

Friendship Circle, Tuesday, January 22nd, 6:15p.m., Melissa Mobley's home.

Early Riser's, Thursday, January 24th, 8a.m., Chapel area.

Men's League Basketball:

Jan. 21st, 9p.m.

Jan. 28th, 8p.m.

Feb. 4th, 9p.m.

(Tim Wirt, Captain, 770-914-2093)

Fair Trade Coffee is available for purchase in the Church Office along with Dudley's book;

Have you remembered the Church in your will?

Did you find a way to thank those who lead our

music ministry for their beautiful gifts at worship in December?

BLOOD DRIVE

A Deacon’s Ministry: Monday, January 14th, 2-7p.m. Please contact Rick Berry (678-583-6742) or visit www.givelife.org for an appointment. During 2007, MPC’s Blood Drives contributed more than 300 pints of blood to the Red Cross! Thanks to all who contributed.

PONDERABLE

Jesus is, Mark 6:46 tells us, in the hills praying while the disciples are in a boat during a storm at sea. Where is Jesus when life’s storms hit us? Praying for us. What are we to do in the storm? What the disciples did. We row. Mark 6:48 says they rowed most of the night…they ‘struggled hard’ to row the boat. The word ‘struggled’ is elsewhere translated ‘tormented.’ Wasn’t easy. Wasn’t glamorous.

Much of life is spent rowing. Getting out of bed. Fixing lunches. Turning in assignments. Changing diapers. Paying bills. More struggle than strut. More wrestling than rest.

You thought marriage was going to be a lifelong date? You thought having kids was going to be like babysitting? You thought the company that hired you wanted to hear all the ideas you had in college? Then you learned otherwise. The honeymoon ended. The IRS called, and the boss wanted you to spend the week in Muleshoe, TX.

Much of life is spent rowing. But at the right time, God comes. So don’t bail out. Don’t give up. Don’t lay down the oars. God is too wise to forget you, too loving to hurt you. When you can’t see Him, trust Him. Jesus is praying a prayer that He Himself will answer.” (A Gentle Thunder -Hearing God Through The Storm, Max Lucado, 1995)

MONEY TALK(S)

Annual Christmas Joy Offering: $390;

Alternative Christmas Gift Giving Bazaar

yielded $7,750 to help local and global missions supported by MPC;

Christmas Eve Worship offering benefiting the Kindness Fund: $2,615;

Pledges and anticipated receipts for 2008 result in an Operating Budget totaling $740,000 ($60,000 less than 2007)…Congregational Meeting is called for noon, Sunday, January 27th, to act on the proposed 2008 compensation (salary packages) for Dudley and Rachael;

Hands of Hope Free Christian Medical and Dental Clinic was blessed by a gift from MPC of $4,425;

FROM THE MAILBAG

To Our Dear Family,

Words fail to convey how grateful our hearts feel for all you have done for us since Deena broke her leg. Your visits, calls, cards, prayers and food have all been wonderful and a true blessing as we learned to adapt to a new way of living. This injury has really shown us how deep the love of our church family runs. It feels like a warm blanket wrapping us in love and we are forever grateful.

Chris, Deena, Olivia, Jacob and Emily Seckinger

Dear McDonough Presbyterian Church,

Our family cannot thank you all enough for the amazing and loving generosity we experienced through your Church’s Kindness Fund. God’s love shines through souls such as yourselves, singing of God’s presence and purpose for His creation. We will always remember and cherish the blessings we have received, and always remember to share God’s love and blessings with others as you have so graciously shared with us. We thank you all deeply for your love, support, generosity and prayers for our family. God Bless and Merry Christmas!

Robert, Misty, Ariel and Jared Cochran

Dear Secret Santa,

What an amazing gift you have given to my family! Never in a million years would I have dreamed that I would be a recipient of holiday charity. But I’m truly grateful for your generosity. Now my children won’t have to question whether Santa exists. More importantly, we’re reminded that God exists through wonderful people like you.

We thank everyone for all their prayers, cards, meals and visits. You will never know how much they mean to us!

Gratefully, Paul and Judy Alfele

YOUTH MINISTRY

Jr. High Night Owls Sleep Over at the Church: January

25th, 7p.m. - January 26th, a.m.; $15;

Confirmation II (9th graders) Vespers at the Monas-

tery, Conyers, GA; January 26th; please bring money

to pay for dinner; depart from the Church at 4p.m., return about 8p.m.;

Sr. High ministry at the Food Pantry, January 30th;

leave from the Church at 6:45p.m.;

Jr. High Game Night; The Anchor Family Life Center;

January 30th, 6:45p.m.

"DEBT FREE FOR THE KINGDOM”

More than 70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Over 35% of Christian marriages end in divorce,

and money problems are the number one cause. Financial Peace University has a long history of helping

families successfully confront these problems head-on. The program is a biblically based

accountability curriculum that teaches you to manage God’s money and resources in a Godly way.

It empowers you to eliminate debt, build wealth, and give like never before.

On average, families reduce their debt by $5,300

and save $2,700 in 91 days. MPC will offer the course beginning March 11,

and two preview / information sessions will be available: Sunday, February 24th after 11a.m.

worship, and Tuesday, February 26th at 7p.m.Both will be held in the Good News Classroom.

Reserve a spot be calling the church office or

contact David Shedd with questions (770-957-

7117; david_shedd@hotmail.com).

To see pictures of our Christmas at the Stable Click Here

To see pictures of the Sock Hop held at Church Click Here

A big thank you to Kimberly Bowler for all of the pictures

from the functions at Church

Click Here to see the pictures of the Chili Challenge