July 26, 2024

Dear Peachtree Road Family,

I hope you are well. The Olympics are set to begin in Paris, and we have been using this time as an opportunity to remember the spiritual lessons we learn from Olympians. The Apostle Paul often used sports as illustrations in his letter to the churches in the first century. We already have considered three of these:

Press on toward the goal – Romans 3:3-11

Training makes a difference – I Timothy 4:6-16

Play as a team – Romans 5:1-5

On Sunday, we will bring our “Summer in the City” series to a close as we consider one more lesson: “Pass the Baton.” I hope you will participate in worship this Sunday as Josh Miles preaches. In preparation for the message, please read II Timothy 4:5-8. 

The three hymns we are singing on Sunday are ones that are designed to draw us closer to Christ in worship and praise:

  • How Firm a Foundation
  • I Will Call Upon the Lord
  • He Lives

The day’s choral anthem will be an arrangement of “Amazing Grace” sung by Schola Cantorum. In addition, at the close of the service Mary Allison Hamby and Meredith Howard will sing an arrangement of “Softly and Tenderly.” We are so blessed to have talented musicians to lead us in worship!

You are also invited to join your friends on the front lawn of the church after each service for lemonade and cookies. I hope you will worship either in person at one of our services at 8:45 am, 10:00 am, or 11:15 am or online at www.prumc.org. 

In the spirit of watching the Olympics, the Men’s Ministries of Peachtree Road UMC is sponsoring a family barbeque this Sunday in Grace Hall with the Olympics showing on the big screen. You are invited to join your church friends from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm to watch the competition and enjoy delicious smoked pork and good fellowship. There is no charge, but you are asked to register here to help the men prepare the right amount of food. For more information, contact Rev. Geoff Beakley at geoffb@prumc.org.

Now is the time to consider participating in a Fall Bible Study Group. As we seek to grow together in God’s grace, we find that studying the scriptures and reflecting upon them with others nurtures our faith, deepens our theological understanding, and fosters community. No matter how much or how little you already know of the Bible, spending time studying God’s word can be transformative. We are excited to offer a dynamic new season of Bible studies featuring rock-solid foundations such as Disciple Bible Study, as well as fresh new offerings from clergy and lay leaders that will challenge and encourage you! Complete class details will be coming soon. Save the date for online registration, opening August 15, and plan on gaining a deeper understanding of God at work in us this fall.

Finally, let me suggest two opportunities for those looking to become better connected at Peachtree Road UMC:

  • Tour the church campus on Sunday, August 18, 10:00 am, Grace Hall. Whether you are new or still trying to find your way around, please join us for a tour of the campus and a brief overview of the ministries and offerings at Peachtree Road. For more information, please contact Brittany Charron at brittanyc@prumc.org.
  • Tea with the Clergy on Sunday, August 25, 12:30 – 2:00 pm, Hospitality Suite. Get to know our church and ministers better at this casual afternoon gathering. Our clergy will answer questions, share their vision, and help you connect to areas of interest within the church. After conversation wraps up, those who wish to take the next step in membership may join in a brief service. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Brittany Charron at brittanyc@prumc.org.

I hope that you will continue to enjoy these days of summer with loved ones. Please pray for the ministry of your church as we pray for you. 

Grace and peace, 

Bill