 Last week, our Director of Youth Ministries (Engagement), Kayla Cave, shared a devotional based on Acts 2:42-47. As soon as I began reading that first verse - Acts 2:42 - I was immediately transported back eleven years to when we first began our work of planting a new church in the Collierville area. Acts 2:42 served as the focus verse for our launch team as we began planting a network of house churches in our town – meeting for dinner, study, and Communion in people's homes, witnessing the fruit that God was bringing to harvest, guiding those first faithful followers from Peace Tree to plant new seeds by starting house groups in new neighborhoods in order to reach new people for Jesus. But it had been some time since I had read past the 42nd verse to see what it has to say about the Christian community, about the ways in which we can use our resources or sell our possessions in order to serve others, and the way in which those Early Christians lived in harmony together by holding everything in common. I was reminded that the Early Church wasn't interested in amassing more "stuff" or building a 5,000 seat sanctuary; they were more interested in reaching more people with the love of Christ in smaller more personal ways. They met for worship in public places and experienced CHURCH by sharing meals with one another in their homes. This experience of authentic Christian community is what allowed the Church to grow - it wasn't a slick marketing campaign, a grand prize giveaway, or a glossy postcard listing the times that their group gathered for praise & worship that won the hearts and minds of the people. Real relationships are what drew newcomers to connect with the Early Christians, and perhaps there is a lesson in this type of authentic community for us today. So, I invite you to read Kayla's original devotional below. Afterwards, you'll see several prayer prompts for the upcoming week. Thank you for journeying with us during this important time in the life of our congregation. God bless you! +Pastor Kris Roof “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” - Acts 2:42-47 (New International Version) This month’s theme for the Roots is cultivation (lol, get it?). We’ve talked about cultivating our faith and our culture, and with our church-wide meal happing tonight (that I’ve been affectionately calling family dinner), I want to talk about cultivating our community. Community is an integral part of who we are as humans and believers. Without a support system, it’s hard to survive. I know I wouldn’t be able to survive without mine. I am a very careful community cultivator. I don’t let just anyone into my close circle. It may sound cynical at face value, but I do firmly believe that God will send people my way that I can trust to be my closest advisors and accountability peers. That is also not to say that I am not a willing and eager participant in my bigger community. In fact, I have a fierce pride in being a member of my community. I find that there is beauty and importance in both. It is crucial for us to cultivate both the tree and the flower. We cannot flourish fully without them. God will give you people in your life, some for a few seasons and some for good. Take those relationships with love and grow in God. Kayla Cave Director of Youth Ministries - Engagement August 31 - Acts 2:42 includes four main components for the Christian gathering: study of Scripture, fellowship with neighbors, sharing a meal/Communion, and prayer. If a congregation only did these four things (i.e. they had no music, no children's moment, no offering moment, no formal sermon from a priest or pastor BUT they learned together, ate a meal, laughed and prayed with each other), would you consider their gathering to be a "church service" or a "worship service" - why or why not? September 1 - Today is 901 Day in the Mid-South! What are some ways you can cultivate community? Who is the last neighbor you shared a conversation with on the front porch? Which of your neighbors could benefit from a greater sense of community today? September 2 - The Early Christians devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles. What is your favorite verse of Scripture? What is your favorite book of the Bible? What does devotion to the apostles' teachings look like in our modern times, and are you living that out? September 3 - Another way to conceive of the Early Christians' "fellowship" is to think about "life together." Who are the people in your life who you would consider as part of your "fellowship" or your circle of friends? How often do you pray for them and for their families? September 4 - The "breaking of bread" or the common meal was foundational for this Early Christian community in Acts. How do you prefer to break bread with your friends or fellow believers: at a restaurant, in a church fellowship hall, in your home, on the patio in your backyard, or from some other location like a coffeehouse, in the bleachers during a football game or band competition, or from inside your car at a drive-in? Does the location of the meal affect the type of fellowship you get to share with others? September 5 - Prayer is the final core value for these Early Christians who have experienced Pentecost and are baptizing new believers in Jerusalem. How often do you pray to God? Do you only pray when you need something from God? Do you pray when you're celebrating a major milestone or blessing in your life? Are you in need of prayer today and you'd like to share a prayer request with us? September 6 - During these 40 Days of Prayer & Discernment, have you begun to re-think what Church can look like or feel like? What would you consider are the foundational elements for any congregation to have if they are to be the Church?  This week's Coffee with Kris & Harry will be held at Cafe 127. Feel free to drop by between 10:00am and 12:00 Noon for conversation & prayer.“He joins and holds together the whole body with its ligaments providing the support needed so each part works to its proper design to form a healthy, growing, and mature body that builds itself up in love.” -Ephesians 4:16 (The Voice)  Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the very first clergy meeting for the newly formed Southwestern District of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church. It was an uplifting two hours of fellowship, worship, and learning spent at First UMC of Jackson, TN with fellow colleagues who serve other congregations in local church ministry throughout the Volunteer State. Our new District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Jathnaiel Cavitt, shared a message with us which was based on Ephesians 4:1-16, and he used the imagery of a tapestry being woven together to help connect our thoughts to the scripture. We were reminded that before the act of weaving can begin, tension between the strands must first exist. I know that during this time, we may feel tense or anxious about the next steps we will take as a church family. But I trust that God will work in the midst of that tension, that God will weave together a new thing amongst us, and that God will bind us together in love - that we might consider ourselves interwoven by grace. And I pray that we may open our hearts and minds to discover this type of interwoven grace beyond the walls of our church building - to count ourselves as one strand in the great tapestry of our District, our Conference, our Denomination, and yes - the Kingdom of God here on this planet. Dr. Cavitt shared something at the very beginning of his message that has stuck with me: “The strength of the Church is not merely within us, it’s also between us.” We know from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians that the power of the Holy Spirit flows through us, but we have also seen how the Spirit brings different congregations together to address common goals, to supply scholarships for deserving students, to provide disaster relief for communities in need, and to speak out against injustices and evil which exist in our world. It may be cliché to state that we are “stronger together” - various political campaigns and corporate advertisements have used this language as well. But with the power of the Holy Spirit flowing through us, and the grace of God weaving us together, we truly are stronger, better, and more faithful when we work together and worship Jesus as the one who transforms our independent strands by weaving us into a beautiful tapestry. As we journey through these 40 Days of Prayer & Discernment, I ask that you consider the spiritual gifts and talents found within our faith community. How is God using us to build up the Kingdom of Heaven? After you've given that some thought, look around our city to other places of worship and ask how God not only works within us but also between us. +Pastor Kris Roof August 17 - Ephesians 4:11-12 states: So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up... Which of these roles do you most closely identify with - Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, or Teacher? August 18 - Before the act of weaving can begin, tension between the strands must first exist... What tension or anxiety are you currently feeling? How might God work to create something beautiful in the midst of that tension? August 19 - Consider all the gifts and skills found within our faith community - what does it mean for each part to work to its proper design? What can we achieve together when each member of our body fully utilizes their God-given talents? August 20 - How is God at work between the churches in our town? What opportunities exist for us to partner with other congregations towards a shared goal or ministry? August 21 - As a United Methodist congregation, we belong to a larger connection and network of local churches throughout our denomination. How have you or your family been impacted by that connection of shared resources and ministry? August 22 - What does the phrase "Stronger Together" mean to you? Have you seen this idea lived out - if so, what role did you play in the effort? How can we be more faithful together? August 23 - What do you imagine is God's desire for Peace Tree? How can we live into God's preferred future for our congregation? This week's Coffee with Kris & Harry will be held at Carrington Oaks Coffeehouse. Feel free to drop by between 10:00am and 12:00 Noon for conversation & prayer. This past Sunday, I joined several leaders from our congregation's Leadership Team to host a State of the Church information meeting. During the meeting, we updated church members about recent successes in ministry, vital partnerships with fellow non-profit organizations which we've formed in the last couple of years, and shared how the reach & impact of our congregation extends beyond the walls of our church building. We also received a clear and honest report from our treasurer regarding our church's finances, operating budget, and a potential forecast as we look ahead to the remainder of 2026. If you're a member of our congregation but you missed attending this in-person session and you would like to view this video, please request a link by emailing me at [email protected]. Near the end of the gathering, I shared my hope for our faith community to enter into a season of prayerful consideration, conversation, and thought. Starting today, August 12 and lasting through Sunday, September 20, we will engage in 40 Days of Prayer & Discernment. I encourage you to return to this blog every Monday between now and September 20 for devotionals and prompts guiding you in meditation and prayer over different areas of ministry found within our church family. I trust that the Holy Spirit will speak to us through this exercise to help bring into focus which programs, physical assets, and strategic partnerships are important and necessary to our core mission to "Love God by Loving Others." I also want to make myself available for phone conversations, video chats, and one-to-one meetings. Every Monday, I will be in the church office from 10:00am until 2:00pm. Feel free to drop in unannounced or call ahead if you'd like to see me or any of our staff. Dr. Durbin and I will also be available at several coffee shops throughout Collierville on Tuesday mornings from 10:00am until 12:00 Noon. We welcome any questions, comments, or reflections about our current situation as a church body, and we'd love to hear your ideas for innovation and fresh expressions of faith. You can RSVP to these in-person coffee meet-ups on our Facebook page, or simply swing by for a cup of joe and conversation. Our schedule during these 40 Days of Prayer & Discernment is as follows: Aug. 18 at Carrington Oaks Coffeehouse Aug. 25 at Levee Coffee & Creamery Sep. 1 at Café 127 Sep. 8 at Donut Hutt Sep. 15 at Starbucks (S. Houston Levee) We want to dream up and imagine possibilities that push beyond what might be considered standard procedure or some sort of protocol copied from a business playbook. Instead, we want to live into God's preferred future for our congregation. As we consider the level of giving & tithes each family can commit to placing in the offering plate this year as well as the various uses of our church building and vital partnerships we can create with other congregations, non-profit organizations, and outside groups who desire to utilize our space, I pray that God will provide focus and clarity for our next steps as a church family. So, today I invite you to read the passage of Scripture printed below and consider the ways in which our young people are leading us as a congregation. What gifts and talents do they possess? How are they not simply the "Church of Tomorrow," but rather the "Church of Today?" After reading this passage, scroll down to read prompts for the different days of this week. And if you haven't already, watch the faith witnesses shared by our children & youth from our July 26 worship service linked below. Thank you for your support! I look forward to joining you in person and in spirit during these next 40 Days of Prayer & Discernment. May God bless you and the people of Peace Tree! +Pastor Kris Roof And don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity. 1 Timothy 4:12 (The Message) August 12 - Psalm 8:2 comments on how the praise of God by infants & children who gurgle choruses and shout songs are able to drown out the talk of enemies. How have you witnessed infants, toddlers, and young children praising God with their songs, shouts, and cries this past month? August 13 - How important is it for tweens and teens to experience short term mission trips like Mountain T.O.P. or Rio Bravo? What is different about traveling to another place to engage in mission work versus volunteering here at home? August 14 - Is God calling you to get Safe Sanctuary trained and background checked so that you may begin volunteering in the Nursery, with Peace Tree Kids, or with the Roots youth group? August 15 - How have the young people of our faith community helped teach you about faith and trust in God? What example have they set with their words, demeanor, love, faith, and integrity? August 16 - Is God calling you to provide a meal for one of the Wednesday night youth meet-ups this semester? If you do feel led to provide a meal for these students to enjoy, will you also consider sticking around to break bread in the fellowship hall and spend time with our teens, adult volunteers, and church staff?  Friends in Christ,
Our country is more divided than ever. For several years now, I have spoken with you and my previous conferences about these deep divisions and the painful ways they affect our communities, our churches, and even our families. In recent days, these divisions have again been laid bare. It is our understanding that the National Guard will soon be deployed into Memphis, Tennessee. In our conference, as across our nation, faithful people hold differing views about this development. For many, this raises concerns about escalation, fear, and mistrust between communities and those called to protect them. We must acknowledge that such moments can deepen existing divides and stir strong emotions, even among those who worship side by side. This past week, we witnessed the tragic shooting of a well-known political activist while in conversation with college students. And once again, our nation mourns yet another school shooting - this time in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado. These events grieve us deeply. They also have the power to widen the distance between us if we are not careful. As United Methodists, we have historically stood against injustice in all its forms. Our faith compels us to speak truth, to pursue mercy, and to act with courage. Yet just as importantly, our Lord Jesus Christ calls us to be peacemakers. In a world of anger and suspicion, we are to be instruments of peace. I implore you, therefore, to live into this calling. Reach across the lines that too often divide us - political, racial, geographic, or even denominational. Sit down with someone who does not look like you, vote like you, or pray like you. Listen with compassion. Extend grace. Refuse to let the story of our nation be written only in terms of hatred and violence. Our laity and clergy are called to be spiritual leaders in their communities, modeling the way of Christ through prayer, presence, and action. It is a conference discipleship priority and therefore of utmost importance. How might you take responsibility for changing the narrative of this country? How might you bear witness to the reconciling love of Christ in a broken and weary world? The apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This is both a challenge and a promise. It is a challenge because peace requires effort, sacrifice, and humility. But it is also a promise, because when we take even small steps toward peace, God multiplies them for the sake of the Kingdom. May God grant us the courage to stand for justice, the patience to listen across divides, and the wisdom to be instruments of peace. And may the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in these days. Memphis Mayor Paul Young stated in his September 12 News Conference for everyone to come together regardless of our differences. He encouraged the Memphis community to be laser-focused on continuing the good work that has been done over the last two years in moving Memphis to becoming a great city. May we United Methodists become laser-focused by loving God, loving people, and seeking to be a peacemaker. Use your voice, your influence, and your presence as God leads you. With hope and prayer, Bishop David Graves Resident Bishop Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference  On Monday, April 25, 2022, I had the honor of praying the invocation for the Board of Mayor & Aldermen Meeting at Collierville Town Hall. Below is the prayer that I offered for our leaders, our town, and for all those in attendance. Please join me on this National Day of Prayer as we consider all of our elected officials and ask that God would give them the wisdom needed to serve all people under their care. Almighty God, as we continue to celebrate the holy days of Ramadan, Eastertide, and the days following Passover, we come to you as a town made up of many different people and many different faiths. As decisions are made tonight which will impact the lives of all our citizens, remind us that our community is like a body, made up of different parts. Some are young and some old, some with every need met and others requiring assistance, some can trace their lineage and connection to this town back several generations and others have just moved in. Every part of this body is important, and some parts of the body that seem the weakest or least honorable in the eyes of the world are actually the most important and necessary in your eyes, dear Lord, since each member of this body has been placed exactly where you want them. When we understand our town in this way, then we might begin to see each other as indispensable, where each person and each family is needed to make our community whole and strong. Guide the work of our elected officials, O Lord, so that they might tend to the needs of all citizens, so that the parts of Collierville which are the most at risk might be the most protected and shown the greatest care. Allow us to live in harmony with you and one another. And empower us with your Spirit to seek justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, of Hagar and Ishmael, of Jesus, Peter, and Paul. It’s in your Name, we pray. Amen.   Welcome to our Outdoor Worship Service! We’re so happy that you’re with us this morning at Peace Tree. Please “love thy neighbor” by wearing a face covering whenever moving from your vehicle to the East Lawn (you may remove your mask once stationary and distanced from others).
Individually packaged Communion packets are available at the Welcome Table along with face masks and hand sanitizer. Please be aware of your proximity to others outside of your family and maintain a safe distance from other groups on the East Lawn. If you have a prayer request, email [email protected]. For more information about Peace Tree and our ministries, please visit www.peacetree.church and follow us on social media (@peacetreeumc). God bless you and Happy Pentecost! Opening Prayer O God, the Holy Spirit, come to us, and among us; come as the wind, and cleanse us; come as the fire, and burn; come as the dew, and refresh; convict, convert, and consecrate many hearts and lives to our great good and to thy greater glory; and this we ask for Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen. Light the Fire VERSE 1 I stand to praise you But I fall to my knees My spirit is hungry But my flesh is so weak CHORUS Light the fire (Light the fire) In my soul (In my weary soul) Fan the flames (Fan the flames) Make me whole (Make my spirit whole) Lord, you know (Lord, you know) Where I’ve been (Where I’ve been) So light the fire in my heart again! VERSE 2 I feel your arms around me As the power of your healing begins You breathe new live right through me Like a mighty rushing wind CHORUS (x2) Breathe on Me, Breath of God VERSE 1 Breathe on me, breath of God Fill me with life anew That I may love what thou dost love And do what thou wouldst do VERSE 2 Breathe on me, breath of God Until my heart is pure Until with thee I will one will To do and to endure VERSE 3 Breathe on me, breath of God Till I am wholly thine Till all this earthly part of me Glows with thy fire divine VERSE 4 Breathe on me, breath of God So shall I never die But live with thee the perfect life Of thine eternity The Baptismal Covenant Brothers and sisters in Christ: Through the Sacrament of Baptism we are initiated into Christ's holy Church. We are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit. All this is God's gift, offered to us without price. Today, we present: Lucy Brooks Lowrance for baptism. On behalf of the whole Church, I ask you: Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of your sin? If so, say, “I do.” Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves? If so, say, “I do.” Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord, in union with the Church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races? If so, say, “I do.” Will you nurture this child in Christ's holy Church, that by your teaching and example she may be guided to accept God's grace for herself, to profess her faith openly, and to lead a Christian life? If so, say, “I will.” Do you, as Christ's body, the Church, reaffirm both your rejection of sin and your commitment to Christ? We do. Will you nurture one another in the Christian faith and life and include this child now before you in your care? With God's help we will proclaim the good news and live according to the example of Christ. We will surround this child with a community of love and forgiveness, that she may grow in her trust of God, and be found faithful in her service to others. We will pray for her, that she may be a true disciple who walks in the way that leads to life. Pour out your Holy Spirit, to bless this gift of water and she who receives it, to wash away her sin and clothe her in righteousness throughout her life, that, dying and being raised with Christ, she may share in his final victory. (HOLY BAPTISM) Now it is our joy to welcome our new sister in Christ. Through baptism you are incorporated by the Holy Spirit into God's new creation and made to share in Christ's royal priesthood. We are all one in Christ Jesus. With joy and thanksgiving we welcome you as a member of the family of Christ. As members of Christ's universal church, will you be loyal to Christ through The United Methodist Church, and do all in your power to strengthen its ministries? If so, say, “I will." As members of this congregation, will you faithfully participate in its ministries by your prayers, your presence, your gifts, your service, and your witness? If so, say, “I will.” We give thanks for all that God has already given you and we welcome you in Christian love. As members together with you in the body of Christ and in this congregation of The United Methodist Church, we renew our covenant faithfully to participate in the ministries of the church by our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service, and our witness, that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit VERSE 1 There’s nothing worth more That will ever come close Nothing can compare You’re our living hope Your presence VERSE 2 I’ve tasted and seen Of the sweetest of loves Where my heart becomes free And my shame is undone Your presence, Lord CHORUS Holy Spirit, you are welcome here Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for To be overcome by your presence, Lord VERSE 1 VERSE 2 CHORUS (x2) BRIDGE (x4) Let us become more aware of your presence Let us experience the glory of your goodness CHORUS Offering If you’d like to support the work of Peace Tree, please visit peacetree.church/give on your mobile device. You can also place your offering or tithes in the plates as the Ushers walk by your area. If you have questions about our missions, ministry, and upcoming renovations as we transform our building into a center for our community, then please visit peacetree.church/connect and fill out our online form. Thank you for your generosity! Kids Time with Mrs. Connie Scripture Lesson | Romans 8:22-27 We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Message | “A Spirit of Hope” Rev. Kristofer Roof Holy Communion INVITATION Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Therefore, let us confess our sin before God and one another. CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Hear the good news: Christ died for us while we were yet sinners; that proves God's love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven! Glory to God. Amen. THE PEACE Let us offer one another signs of reconciliation and love. THE GREAT THANKSGIVING The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise. It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, almighty God, creator of heaven and earth… And so, with your people on earth and all the company of heaven we praise your name and join their unending hymn: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Holy are you, and blessed is your Son Jesus Christ. By the baptism of his suffering, death, and resurrection you gave birth to your Church, delivered us from slavery to sin and death, and made with us a new covenant by water and the Spirit… And so, in remembrance of these your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, we offer ourselves in praise and thanksgiving as a holy and living sacrifice, in union with Christ's offering for us, as we proclaim the mystery of faith. Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again. Pour out your Holy Spirit on us gathered here, and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the body and blood of Christ, that we may be for the world the body of Christ, redeemed by his blood. By your Spirit make us one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory, and we feast at his heavenly banquet. Through your Son Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy Church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and for ever. Amen. THE LORD’S PRAYER And now, with the confidence of children of God, let us pray: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory for ever. Amen. BREAKING THE BREAD AND GIVING THE CUP Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf. The bread which we break is a sharing in the body of Christ. The cup over which we give thanks is a sharing in the blood of Christ. PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION Eternal God, we give you thanks for this holy mystery in which you have given yourself to us. Grant that we may go into the world in the strength of your Spirit, to give ourselves for others, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Burning in My Soul VERSE 1 There is power, power Here in this hour, this hour We’re all together, together Waiting here as one CHORUS Hear the sound from heaven A mighty rushing wind We’re calling for revival God let your fire fall again It’s burning in my soul It’s burning in my soul VERSE 2 All your sons and your daughters Dreaming the dreams of their fathers Seeing the signs and the wonders The Kingdom of God CHORUS BRIDGE I cannot contain it, this fire inside I cannot contain it, so let it shine I cannot contain it, this light of mine CHORUS VERSE 1  On Monday, August 24, I had the honor of praying the invocation for the Board of Mayor & Aldermen Meeting at Collierville Town Hall. Below is the prayer that I offered for our leaders, our town, and for all those in attendance. Please join me in praying for all our elected officials, that God would give them the wisdom needed to navigate these trying times.
God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, God of Hagar and Ishmael, God of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus... We pray to you this night seeking guidance and wisdom, asking for you to reveal your path, for our town, state, and nation. We pray that you might direct the hearts of our Mayor and Aldermen, just as you channeled streams of living water within the hearts of your people. As Israel’s kings sought out the wisdom and counsel of prophets, may our leaders attentively listen to the prophetic voices you lift up this evening. Reveal to us brave visionaries who speak up and speak out on behalf of your people and draw our attention to the least of these, for we know that whatever we do for the least of these we in truth do for you, Lord. Help us to hear the concern of parents as their children return to school, show us the faces of those who have struggled financially over the last five months, and offer us solace as we mourn for the lives of those lost to COVID-19 as well as systemic and institutional racism. Remind us of this fact which theologian Tom Oden shares, “We do not live a solitary existence as if in an individualistic bubble, but in a community called to social accountability. The sin we knowingly do contributes to the burden of sin dispersed through the whole society.” Almighty God, we repent of our sin and the sins of our fathers; may we seek out your preferred future, and may you flood our atmosphere with oceans of justice and rivers of righteousness. You are a good and loving God, slow to anger and quick to love. Bless my neighbors and bless this meeting, so that right and equitable relationships might be built, that wisdom would be proclaimed as each tongue speaks justice and truth. We pray for this and much more in the name of the one true God: Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer. Amen. 
The following is a transcript from a video I streamed earlier today via Facebook Live. Contained in this article are helpful links and updated information for how Peace Tree is continuing to address COVID-19 concerns in our community. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns. God bless!
+Peace and Love from Pastor Kris Hey friends, I wanted to give y’all a quick update on how our faith community is currently addressing coronavirus concerns as we look ahead to the month of May. The last time I went LIVE over Facebook with an update, it was Friday, March 13 - that’s a little over 6 weeks ago. To put things into perspective, back on March 13, there were only two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Shelby County. With more testing being made available in the weeks since then, health officials quickly discovered that community transmission had occurred, and as of April 28 in Shelby County alone, there are 2,320 confirmed cases of COVID-19 including 45 deaths. Friends, now more than ever, we need to practice healthy habits, we need to remain at home if possible, and if we do go to a public place for work, or to pick up groceries and meals from local restaurants, or for any other reason, then we need to wear cloth masks or other face coverings to protect ourselves and others. For six weeks now, Peace Tree has encouraged our members to stay at home. We’ve gathered together as an online community through a number of different methods. We’ve premiered worship videos on Sunday morning at 10AM Central across three sites: YouTube, Facebook, and our church website: peacetree.church. We’ve also been hosting online Bible studies on Wednesday nights at 7:30 Central using Facebook Live. We have a dial in prayer call every Thursday at 2:00. House Groups have been keeping in touch with Zoom meetings, emails, group text messages, and phone calls. Our United Methodist Women circles and Peace Tree Kids have been calling and writing letters to our home-centered members, and our Congregational Care Team and church staff have done an excellent job of keeping us connected as well. Many of you watching this video may already have a church home, and we hope that you’re staying connected to your church family. But for those of you who don’t currently have a faith community, or for those who haven’t attended church in some time and are looking for a comfortable, casual way of getting plugged in, I invite you to check out Peace Tree. We’re continuing to foster community using these online opportunities and we’ve had friends and family members join us from places near and far including Arkansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, Amsterdam, the Philippines, and Hong Kong just to name a few. Search for Peace Tree on Facebook and YouTube: I think you’d enjoy all the people you’ll meet during a Wednesday night Bible study, a Sunday morning worship service, a Tuesday night Book Club gathering, or during a Thursday afternoon dial-in prayer call. Back on March 13, the president declared a national emergency. He also proposed a 15 day plan for slowing the spread of COVID-19. That original 15 day plan got extended through the end of April. And now, there are guidelines from the White House that governors, mayors, and community leaders are referencing when making decisions regarding a phased re-opening of our cities, counties, and states. Our church’s leadership team is staying up-to-date on what local health officials and government leaders are advising, and we’re also looking to our denominational leaders, specifically our conference bishop and our district superintendent. On Friday, Bishop Bill McAlilly shared a blog post with United Methodist pastors stating that it’s in the best interest of the churches we serve in Middle Tennessee, West Tennessee, and Western Kentucky for public worship and other in-person gatherings to remain suspended through May 31. We at Peace Tree agree with the Bishop’s decision and we will continue to gather online and stay connected through mailed cards and letters, email blasts, social media posts, Zoom meetings, telephone calls, and Facebook Live videos. In these unprecedented times, the act of physically distancing ourselves from one another is an act of love. Doing so helps us protect ourselves and our families, it demonstrates care and concern for our neighbors (especially those who are most susceptible to this virus), and it could literally help save lives. If you’re isolated and you need someone to talk to, you can always reach out to me - message me directly over Facebook or Instagram, or email me at [email protected]. If you have a prayer concern, send it to our Congregational Care Team at [email protected]. If you need to contact our office staff, then email [email protected] or call 901-286-5532. Lastly, if you’d like to financially support our online ministry, then text the word PEACE to 77977 or visit peacetree.church/give. I leave you with a thought from Psalm 82. In this Psalm, God is presented as the supreme Judge, and God is examining all of those who are in a position of responsibility. They were commissioned to defend the weak, to stand up for the powerless, to uphold the cause of the poor, and to deliver those who are being exploited. Friends, all of us, in some degree or another, hold a position of responsibility. Throughout every community around the world there live individuals who are immunocompromised, those who have underlying medical conditions, and those who suffer from chronic disease. They are your grandparents, your parents, your neighbors, your best friends. I’m staying home to help keep them safe, so that one day, I can see them again face to face. Remember to thank our frontline health care workers, our first responders, grocery store employees, restaurant owners, and other essential workers who are risking their health in order to keep society functioning. Wash your hands often, stay home as much as possible, and if you do go out in public, then please cover your mouth and nose with a mask or face covering. Stay in touch. Share the good news of Jesus. Be the good news by helping those in need. And remember that Church Can Happen Anywhere. Thanks for watching and God bless!  Photo by Joshua Rawson-Harris on Unsplash We are in an unprecedented time as we deal with COVID-19 and adjust how we go about our normal activities. There are many changes happening, and this can overwhelm our capacity to cope. The news media continually monitors the spread of this virus, government officials regularly put out new community restrictions, events are being cancelled, stores cannot keep shelves stocked with basic supplies, and some friends are losing their jobs. All of this leads to an increase in stress, anxiety, depression and/or grief during a time of uncertainty and social distancing. People handle situations like this in different ways. Some may be more irritable, some may be more emotional and cry, and still others may isolate and close themselves off from their loved ones. We need to remember there is no right or wrong way to navigate or cope with stress and that everyone is doing their best. The good news is that you are not alone even while social distancing. Having a connection with others is innate in each human being. All of us need to know we are valued and loved. It can be challenging to stay connected when we are supposed to limit our exposure to others, but it is not impossible. Here are few ways you can stay connected with others:
Along with staying connected to others, remember to practice self-care in order to regulate and handle the stress associated with issues related to COVID-19. There are many ways to practice self-care. A few examples include:
Amid uncertainty, please know you are unique and amazing. There is no other person like you who can fill your shoes. Be a courageous person…talk with someone about how you feel and what you are experiencing. If you want someone who will talk with you and help you find resources, the people of Peace Tree are here to assist. You can start by messaging our Congregational Care Team at [email protected] or by filling out the Prayer Form on our Connect page. Hang in there! We will get through this together. HELPFUL RESOURCES Behavioral Health Safety Net Insurance for those without mental health insurance and do not qualify for TennCare. (further details can be provided) -Contact Leigh Ann Pray by calling 615-804-7164 Memphis-Area Food Curbside and Pick-Up Options via I Love Memphis Blog: https://ilovememphisblog.com/2020/03/memphis-restaurants-offering-curbside-pickup-and-takeout/ United Way Community Response and Recovery Fund https://www.unitedway.org/recovery/covid19?utm_source=homepage&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=covid19&utm_content=learnmore# Memphis Food Industry Emergency Worker Assistance GoFundMe organized by Edible Memphis https://www.gofundme.com/f/memphisfoodworkers Talkspace Coronavirus Resource Hub https://www.talkspace.com/blog/coronavirus/ Free Resources for Mindfulness and Meditations https://www.calm.com/blog/take-a-deep-breath?utm_source=lifecycle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=difficult_times_nonsubs_031720 RELIEF FUNDS AND ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE https://www.cfgm.org/give-now/covid-19-regional-response-fund/ MEALS FOR SENIORS Members of City of Memphis Senior Centers will still receive a daily meal from their respective seniors. Members registered to receive MIFA meals can opt to pick up their meal from the center they attend or have it delivered using the van service. Members at other senior centers have the option to pick up their meals at their respective center for their regular nominal fee.  Leigh Ann Pray has worked in mental health in Tennessee for over 20 years. She has a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and is a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist. During her career, she has worked as an In-home Counselor, a Case Manager, a Case Management Supervisor, a partial hospitalization Program Director, a Director of Quality Assurance and Training, a Chief Clinical Officer and a West TN Regional Director. Leigh Ann has been a part of implementing trauma informed care with Foster Parents, as well as developing trauma informed curriculums for clinicians. She has trained counselors, therapists and community partners on a wide variety of topics such as effective discipline, communication, trauma informed practices, and many more. She was a cohort leader with the National Council for Behavioral Health, in a collaboration to create trauma informed communities. The Collaboration focused on creating sustainable trauma-competent environments to allow children and families to thrive. Leigh Ann has spoken at events in multiple states on topics such as secondary traumatic stress, cross generational trauma, how to create trauma informed communities and trauma informed foster parenting. Leigh Ann believes in empowering people to identify and develop their strengths and abilities so they can maximize their potential.
The following article was shared by Pastor Kris during Vision Sunday on January 26, 2020 which concluded our "2020 Vision" sermon series. Architectural designs and concept art were shared with our congregation at a special meeting following the 10AM worship service that day. During the meeting, church leaders guided table discussions as we dreamt and imagined how a potential building renovation would impact our ministry and extend our missional outreach into the community.
If you'd like more information about the renovation proposals, please visit us in person at 9315 E Shelby Dr and pick up a copy of our FAQ document. You can also take a look at the design boards displayed in the main lobby with images of the entrances, hallways, chapel, and signage. Questions? Email us at [email protected]. These are exciting times! God is at work with the people of Peace Tree, and we have sought to live into God’s vision for our growing congregation. What began in the summer of 2015 as a dream for a new church led by a church planter with a launch team of 12 people, soon became a network of house churches which met in neighborhoods, apartments, and restaurants touching dozens of lives. Our mission was simple back then, and it remains our focus to this day: To Love God by Loving Others. As a new church plant, we sought to love those who had left the church for one reason or another, to welcome back those who had fallen away from the community of faith, and to reach those who had never been exposed to Christianity or encountered Jesus in their lives. Instead of asking people to “come to church,” we worked tirelessly to “take the Church to them,” and to “meet people where they are.” We accomplished this through community events and weekly House Groups. As God grew Peace Tree during the course of our first year, our church leaders saw a need for a Sunday morning worship service. 
“Church Can Happen Anywhere,” so we decided to rent space in a non-traditional location for our Sunday morning Large Group Worship Celebration - we believed this would make us more approachable and that it would clear any hurdles for individuals who were weary of walking into a traditional church building. After considering the YMCA at Schilling Farms, Collierville Schools, and the Malco Collierville Towne Cinema, the best value for our money was the local movie theater.
The Malco Collierville Towne Cinema provided us with a large lobby to greet families and neighbors, Safe Sanctuary compliant classrooms for our Nursery and children’s church, and an auditorium that could seat over 250 people comfortably. The staff was wonderful and we included them as fellow team members. The Sunday morning worship service introduced us to people who had not yet encountered Peace Tree, and it also welcomed others who could not attend a mid-week House Group. These individuals came with talents, gifts, and ideas for new monthly gatherings like Family Fun Night and Book Club. They helped us live out our core values: Love All, Serve All, Live Together, Follow Christ. 
The Malco Collierville Towne Cinema was planning a number of renovations and this ultimately caused us to move locations to the Malco Forest Hill Cinema in Germantown. New families discovered us because of the change in location, and we saw the number of people involved in House Groups and Sunday morning Large Group steadily grow.
We were pushing up against our maximum capacity in the Malco Forest Hill Cinema during big worship services (Easter, Christmas Eve, Founders’ Day, etc.) and we started looking for a larger space to rent that would also be accessible during the week for other programs and ministry opportunities. We looked at buildings and office suites that other churches had previously occupied - one in an office park and another off of Highway 72. We toured spaces that were available for lease in shopping centers and at Carriage Crossing. We even found an online listing for a church building & parsonage in Collierville priced at $2 million. God continued to grow our church and we continued to look for a new home, and that’s exactly when the pastor of CrossRoads Church reached out to me about a potential church merger. The Peace Tree Leadership Team proposed the “baby step” of renting the gym from CrossRoads while their congregation continued meeting in the chapel with their pastor continuing to serve the CrossRoads congregation. But after meeting with the lay leaders and committee chairs from CrossRoads, it was clear that they wanted to merge with Peace Tree. 
During the merger process, we learned a lot about CrossRoads - how many of its members had once been part of St. James UMC and decided to move out to Collierville and re-charter as CrossRoads Church, how the people of CrossRoads worshiped in a warehouse for several years while the building on Shelby Drive was constructed, and how worship took place in the gym while the chapel was being built. Wherever we go, God is already there! So whether we gather for worship in a warehouse, a movie theater, a coffee shop, someone’s home, a chapel, a gymnasium, or a restaurant - we know that God is with us. Since we shared the same spiritual DNA with this sister congregation, we decided to proceed with the church merger. The leaders of Peace Tree emphasized our desire to renovate the building, updating signage, replacing carpet, painting the walls, and transforming the chapel into a space that could function in many different ways, welcoming community organizations and outside groups into our sacred space. 
CrossRoads had opened their doors to outside groups in the years leading up to the church merger. The YMCA had hosted Y Camps in the children’s wing during the summer months; fitness classes, team sports, and pickle ball take place inside the gym; and Cub Scout Pack 37 was chartered and continues to meet inside the building.
We hope to build upon this important work and to open the doors of this church facility even wider. There is so much potential for this space, and there are plenty of opportunities to reach new people whom other churches have missed in the past.
I had absolute trust that the church merger would help our congregation grow and that moving into this building would give us a safe space for individuals and families to call home - and by all accounts, that’s exactly what’s happened.
I believe that the proposed renovations will extend our reach into this community and the surrounding areas. As we take our next faithful steps together, I hope you’ll pray for me and for our church family as we continue to seek God’s vision for Peace Tree. +Peace and Love from Pastor Kris |
Peace Tree
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Sundays at 10:00 AM (doors open at 9:30 AM) Peace Tree at Shelby Drive 9315 E Shelby Dr Collierville, TN 38017 Office Hours Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. |
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Peace Tree UMC 9315 E Shelby Dr Collierville, TN 38017 |