Lime Springs United Methodist Church
Our Sunday School lesson continued to focus on the Hebrew names of God found in the Holy Bible. This Sunday we studied Jehovah Sabaoth, “The Lord of Hosts.”
Bro. Shannon brought the morning message from Galatians 6:24 entitled “Anger is One Letter Away from Danger.” He started the message by sharing three illustrations in which people allowed their anger to make them do, think and say things that were not proper.
Bro. Shannon reminded us that being angry is not a sin. An example is when Jesus became angry with the money changers in the temple but was without sin. However, when we allow our anger to take root inside our hearts, then the letter “D” may be added, and anger turns to danger. We too may do, think and say things that are not proper. This letter “D” can be found in the story of the Prodigal Son of Luke 15 by focusing on the elderly son. This son became angry at his father for welcoming his younger brother home and fully restoring him without punishment. His anger turned to sin because of a distortion of his vision, values and virtue.
Bro. Shannon examined each of these distortions and showed how they can add a “D” to our anger to become danger. We are all encouraged to examine our lives, and if you find anger with any distortion, seek God’s intervention to remove it before the sun sets tonight!
Our evening Bible study focused on the Holy Spirit and miraculous gifts.
Happy birthday to Ricky Burnett.
Happy anniversary to Cebo and Tammy Craig.
We invite everyone to join us for worship at Lime Springs. Our service times are as follows: Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.; Sunday morning worship at 11; evening Bible study at 5; and Wednesday night prayer meeting at 6:30.
For more information, please call 755-6356.

Christ Independent Methodist Church
On this beautiful Sabbath Day, Dr. Mac Stinson brought us an inspiring sermon based on the storms of life. His scripture was from Mark 4:33-41.
He also shared personal information with us concerning his daughter Anne, a medical doctor living in Cullman whose home was barely missed by the tornado that ravaged that North Alabama town.
The entire past week was a contrast between tragedy and joy; tragedy accounting for the numerous tornadoes that ravished our state. Many people left in its wake lost every material thing that they owned just hours before a killer tornado struck their area.
Contrast our tragedy with the Royal Wedding in Great Britain attended by the largest crowd of people ever recorded as attending any event there. Their joy in celebration was obvious so that even with an ocean separating us, it was still fun to join in their celebration vicariously and wish this young couple every joy.
As we study the teaching of our Lord, we find that he often taught using parables. Since many people in that time could not read, nor did they own books. His parables taught by using examples of things with which they were familiar. Just prior to today’s scripture text, Jesus had just told the parable of the mustard seed (Mark 4:30-32).
Mark makes this clear in 4:33-34 when he says, “And with many parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.”
Then Mark relates the story of the disciples crossing over the Sea of Galilee when a storm arose and they awoke Jesus from his sleep because the rough water was putting their little boat in danger of sinking. Mark tells us, “He rebuked the wind and said unto the sea, ‘Peace be still,’ and the wind ceased and there was great calm.”
Although they had followed him for some time, they said among themselves, “Who is he that the winds obey him?”
Be much in prayer for Everette Bagby and wife Robbie. He is still critically ill.
Remember the family of Larry “Pop” Cobb who passed away this week. He was the son of J.O. and Margie Cobb.
Pray for Dwight Sammons, Wilma Ellison, Dell Moody, our pastor Dr. Mac Stinson, and pray fervently for all of those whose homes and lives were ravished by the recent tornadoes.
Remember little Israel and God’s favorite people.
Our Bible study of Revelation is Wednesday at 6:45 p.m.
Beginning Sunday night, May 1, we began a DVD presentation of the Holy Land entitled, “That the World May Know.”
Have a blessed week.

Bethany Baptist Church
We have so much to be thankful to God for. It was a blessing to be able to be able to have services but it was with heavy hearts for those who suffered loss of loved ones and property in the recent tornadoes.
We appreciate having a visitor in our services; we extend our warmest welcome to her and hope she will come back. Jean Gray and Elaine Staton sang “My Tribute.” Bro. Steve brought us a good message on “The Great Commission” taken from Matthew 28:16-20.  The Lord’s churches have a mission to accomplish:  To make disciples (teach them); to mark disciples (baptism), and to mature them (grow them to bear fruit).  If our church does not have converts, we are not carrying out the great commission.
Sunday night Bro. Steve’s message was “What Is In Your Hand?”  His text was Exodus 4:1-5.  God demonstrated to Moses He would use what he had in his hand. Applying this to our work for the Lord, God asks us to use what we have and what He gives us (time, talents, treasure).  If one says “I’m too young” – then give Him your youth and energy; if one says “I’m too old” – let   Him use your experience and wisdom; if one says “I don’t have youth and energy or experience and wisdom” —then give him your heart.
Prayer List:  Lillian Burkhalter, Ellen Gray, Ernestine Hatch, our servicemen and women, Larry Miller, Billie Neeley, Pvt. Josh Peppers, Jesse Wallace, James Bixler, Barbara Neeley.
See you Sunday!

New Salem Baptist Church
The past Sunday was homecoming for New Salem, and the attendance for the services were excellent. The Coleman “Remix” Family were special guests. This group did an outstanding job of ministering with music. We would recommend them to any church or organization seeking a family group to sing and minister.
The Rev. Tom Hilyer brought a brief but timely message on the subject of “The Glorious Future of the Believer.” He chose Psalm 17:15 for his text, leading the believers to know that we shall live again and we shall see Jesus and be truly satisfied when we see and become like him. Knowing that Christ has already prepared a glorious home for us, Rev. Hilyer challenged the unbeliever to leave their sin and put their trust in Christ as personal Savior.
This Sunday is Mother’s Day. A special day is planned to recognize all mothers present. Danielle Easterling will be our guest speaker at the 11 a.m. worship hour. Mrs. Easterling is an associate in her church with a heart for ministry to family and children. We invite you to share this special day with us.
A very special thanks goes out to all the present and former members of New Salem for their labors of love. The working together was a beautiful example of God blessing his family and leading them into greater things for him.
You are always welcome at New Salem, and it would be an honor to have you worship with us any Sunday.

Friendship Baptist Church
Bro. Ken’s (Daniel) message was from Genesis 3:8-9 and titled, “Where Are You?” We can’t hide from God. He knows us and he knows where we are. Relationships with family changes as does the relationship with God. They both should grow stronger.
After the morning service, we enjoyed lunch with Bro. Ken and Susan in our fellowship hall.
Bro. Raymond Powell sang “My House is Full.”
Bro. Ken returned Sunday evening, and his sermon was from Matthew 14:22-34 and titled, “Get Out of the Boat.” We need to listen to God’s plan for our life. He knows what we are going through. Let him lead you. He can work in our lives; we just need to let him. God is always on time.
After the evening service, Bro. Ken Daniel was chosen to be our new pastor.
We will hold a church picnic next Saturday. We will meet at the church at 9:30 a.m. or at the pavilion at Oak Mountain State Park at 10 a.m.
On May 14 at 6 a.m., we will leave the church to go to the Collinsville Flea Market.
Prayer requests: The McCalls, our church, Amy and Joe Clipston, Irby and Kay Fanning, Benny Headley, tornado victims, Lucille Price and the Cortornio family.

Bethsalem Baptist Church
Our morning service began with lots of great songs. Our children learned that Vacation Bible School will be held June 6-10.
For special music, the Celebration Choir sang “He Has Been Faithful To Me.”
Bro. Brad preached from Job 1:18-21 on “The Storms of Life: Pray, Share and Serve.”
We were blessed to have Bill and Jessica Fulmer joining our church.
During the evening service, our Celebration Choir led us in worship followed by a message by the pastor.
Wednesday night is family supper at 5:45 p.m., followed by choir practice for all children at 6:45 p.m. and prayer meeting for adults.
Pray for all the people in storm areas, as well as Charles Bryant, Gene Mims, Dylan Collum, Kyle Pack, Chris and Sonja Cox, Nell Mims, Hunter Moore, Betty McGee, Jim Beck, Cassie Patterson, Dee Dee Nicolau, Charles Owens, Mandy Mims, Wylladean Burns, Bo Gun, Paul Green, Barbara Neely, Larry Mays, James Moore, our missionaries, all un-churched families, those who have lost loves ones, and Japan.
Happy birthday this week to Carol Smith, Candy Bradberry, Jessica Fulmer, Ray Hollon, Daylin Baker, Elaine Hayes, Rebecca Lovett, Buddy Green, Ryan Spigener, Tricia Lilianthompson and Aimee Dobbs.
Happy anniversary to Frankie and Carol Smith (32 years) and Chad and Jessica Jones (three years).
Monday, May 9 the men’s softball team will participate in their mid-season tournament.
Our mission is to share Jesus Christ with others to help them connect into his family to develop the habits of a disciple and to discover their place of ministry in order to center their life on Christ.
Come worship with us. Tell someone about Jesus.

Mt. Carmel No. 1 Baptist Church
As we gathered in the House of God Sunday we were truly thankful for the grace and protection that God showed to us during this past week. We also came with heavy hearts for all that were affected so greatly by the storms that ripped through our state last Wednesday. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all. Don’t forget that we are having a drive to collect items to be sent to the relief effort. We will be collecting through Sunday, May 8.
Our Sunday morning service was opened with special music by Lillie and Rebeka Jones singing “Who Am I.” Bro. Derrell sang “I Just Love Old People” in honor of all our senior adults on this Senior Adult Day. He stressed the fact that senior adults have so much wisdom to share if only given a chance.
His morning message was taken from Philippians 3:12-21 and titled “Never Too Old to Stretch.” He wasn’t talking about stretching physically but spiritually. Even though circumstances may be against you as the years pass, you can still press toward the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Paul encourages us to forget about the past and stretch forward. If we aren’t careful, we limit ourselves to what we can do when we think we are too old.
Sunday evening’s message was “Getting the Clay out of the Way” taken from Mark 2:1-12.
A big thank you goes out to Laura Liveoak for all the work she put into our Relay For Life campaign. Thanks to her and many others we had a very successful drive.
Don’t forget that our services on May 15 will be at the Confederate Memorial Park. We will have service at 10 a.m. in the old church building followed by lunch under the pavilion and games for everyone. We are looking forward to this special time.
On May 7, Chad Foshee will be honored with a celebration of his graduation from Jacksonville State University. This will be in the church fellowship hall from 6-8 p.m. His family invites all to come help him celebrate.
Our church softball team has a game on Thursday, May 5 at 8:30 p.m. and Friday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Come support them.
If you do not have a regular place of worship, you are always welcome to join us at Mt. Carmel No. 1. Sunday School starts at 10; morning worship 11; Discipleship Training 5; Sunday evening worship 6 and Wednesday service at 7 p.m.

Cedar Grove
Methodist-
Protestant Church
What a week! We have been sad, we have been blessed! The tornados were devastating, and Chilton County was blessed to have had no more damage than it did.
And to hear on the news that the world’s worst terrorist is no more!
We had two wonderful services Sunday.
Brother David Bullard dismissed us into our Sunday School classes. Brother Gary Hubbard taught us about “Jesus and the Sabbath,” and the lesson came from Matthew 12:1-14. Golden Text: “It is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days” (Matthew 12:12b).
My how things have changed. Years ago there was a blue law; all the stores were closed on Sunday. I believe the drugstores in Clanton would alternate Sundays to be open, so one could get medicine. Many, many things have changed.
Brother Alton Russell opened the worship service with prayer. After several congregational songs, Sam Price sang “I Know What Lies Ahead” and Bro. Gary Hubbard sang “Because You Prayed.” The altar filled.
Happy birthday to Dennis Thompson and Douglas Scott.
We have so many on our prayer list. Special prayer is requested for Derek Gray and all others that have their names on our prayer list. Please pray for all the tornado victims; so many lost their lives and homes.
Brother Jeff Carroll preached a wonderful message entitled “Whirlwind.” His text came from Jeremiah 26:31-33, Jeremiah 23:19 and Job 30:1-9.
Brother Gary Hubbard sang the invitation song, “He Didn’t Throw The Clay Away.”
The evening service was spectacular with a larger crowd than usual. Brother Gary Hubbard sang the special, “Your Cries Have Awoken The Master.”
Brother Heath Vines preached a great message entitled “What a Friend We Have In Jesus” and his text came from Proverbs 18:10-24. Brother Chris Cleckley sang the song of invitation, “Now My Lifesong Sings” followed by “Amazing Grace.” The altar filled; we had the largest anointing service afterward that I can remember having. So many had problems, and some were standing in for someone not able to be there. Someone stood in for the tornado victims. It was wonderful, you could feel the presence of God.
We are looking for new people  every service and are getting some but we still don’t have a full house. Come on out and join us. We have Bible study on Wednesday night, and we’re studying the book of Romans.
Sunday we begin Sunday School at 9:45. Sunday night we have Brother Heath Vines bringing the message; it starts at 5:30 p.m.
For more information, call 646-2390.
“The Lord will fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace” (Exodus 14:14).

Walnut Creek United Methodist Church
Our call to worship was “This is the Day” followed by the hymn “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” and the invocation by our pastor.
As the children gathered, Bro. Tony spoke to a large group of little ones. He asked them to sing “Jesus Loves Me” and explained that those were the most important words they would ever hear.
Debra Florea read the scripture from Psalm 16:7-9 and our Affirmation of Faith No. 888.
The choir special was “He’s Alive” followed by the hymn of preparation “I Know Whom I Have Believed” and special music from Lisa Abbott, “His Eye is On the Sparrow.”
During his message, Bro. Tony told us his theme word for May was going to be “Expressions” based on Acts 3. He said, “We should allow God into our hearts; it will make a difference on our faces.” In the same way, there are expressions of the Body of Christ.
God already knew about those terrible storms. God allowed it to happen — why here and not there, I do not know. What is just as real is, what will be our response to it? Of all the help that is coming, the greatest response should be from the Body of Christ. Peter and John did that — the beggar asked for money, but what they gave him was the greatest expression of all, far greater than the healing — an eternal gift , not a temporary one but the gift of salvation — an expression of hope. A gift which is good; not one that only appears good.
A special congratulations to the Walnut Creek softball team; they are not just winning a ballgame but representing the church well. We are proud.
Walnut Creek is collecting bottled water and non-perishable food items for the tornado victims.

Mars Hill Baptist Church
Sunday was a bittersweet time. We are thankful that we had been spared, and special prayer is needed for the ones in the path of the storm.
Our sermon came from Psalms 29:4 and focused on the voice of God. It would seem that God has spoken.
Our homecoming will be May 22. We have two wonderful groups coming to sing. We look forward to the fellowship of old friends and relatives that we don’t get to see often. Personally, I look forward to the wonderful food that will be served at lunch. Each good cook seems to outdo the next one. Truly, the ladies at Mars Hill are world class cooks.
Will you continue to help us pray for the sick and injured, not just from our church and your church but all over our state?
Our Vacation Bible School is taking shape. We still need helpers and teachers. If you can help, please step up.
“The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace” (Psalms 29:11).
Come join us in worship at any time, you are always welcome at Mars Hill.

Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church
Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and victims of the devastating tornados this past week. Members of our own congregation were impacted by these storms. A lovely tribute was presented in song, not only for the victims, but for all of us.
After this special part of the service, Tootsie and Percy Scott sang a wonderful song entitled “When He Was on the Cross, I was on His Mind.” Brother Glenn Walker gave a message on “Problems that Can’t be Solved.”
Our Sunday night service will be a study on Mark for the next 16 weeks.
Congratulations to our men’s softball team. The women’s softball team has been practicing in anticipation for their season to start. Visit www.gbgm-umc.org/mountpisgahumc for more information.