Go Tell it on the Mountain

Halfway Around the World

2012-02-22T13:14:00.000-06:00

From Mary Margaret Willems:

Bob and I were at the end of our vacation - one week in Beijing, China, then a week in Phuket, Thailand.

We were having our last morning at the pool when I noticed another American couple sitting near us. We had heard some British English along with every other language, but not much "American" that week.

I was in the pool and struck up a conversation with the wife, Linda, who I found out now lives in Williamsburg, VA, but had moved from Ohio.

I mentioned that we retired to middle TN for my husband to work with a ministry there. We chatted some, then Linda asked if I'd heard of Mountain T.O.P. I got goose bumps. There we were halfway around the world and I had started a conversation with someone who had been to MTOP. (Some 15 years ago, however, her former church in Ohio still comes.) I recognized the name, Jerome UMC.

On our way to check out of the resort, we passed Linda and her husband having lunch. We stopped and chatted about this meeting being a "God thing." She had already e-mailed the youth director at Jerome to tell of our encounter.

At Wednesday night Bible Study before our trip our pastor, Von, prayed for our safety and for us to be of service when the need arose. I was thankful for his prayer, but also thought how in the world are we going to serve when we are headed for a fun 2 weeks of new adventure?

As soon as we got home, I couldn't wait to tell Julie of our meeting. In the meantime, I didn't know that the youth director, Denise, had already e-mailed Sam to say that she thought her friend Linda had met Julie's mother. She also said that Linda mentioned that in the five days they spent at the resort, I was the only one that had spoken to her!

God had used me to serve, even on vacation.

Friends Weekend projects are waiting for you!!!

2012-02-07T15:13:00.007-06:00

Where's waldo (aka Smitty)?!?! As you can see the Friends Cabin restroom is coming along nicely but has a long way to go.

Ron Combs and Corey Jewell are preparing the worship center for pillars/footings. The concrete arrives on Wednesday!!!

The Dining Hall wall is getting prepped for sound proofing!!!

The Boys Cabins are waiting to be reconstructed for YSM campers.

Friends Weekend is coming up soon, February 29 - March 4th. These are the projects that we will be working on (and completing this spring). Right now there are 21 Friends signed up. There's still room for you though.

Experiencing God's Love.

2012-01-31T10:13:00.013-06:00

The past two weekends I've had the privilege to go to a couple of youth conferences to promote Mountain T.O.P. The first one, Resurrection, is the youth event for the Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church. I didn't realize that the Holston Conference covered such a huge area. I should've realized when I heard that they had 3 sessions over the course of 2 weekends with about 6,000 youth in each session. Yeah... Crazy! This conference covers from parts of Virginia all the way down to northern parts of Georgia. The second one I went to, Warmth in Winter, is the youth event for the Tennessee Conference of the United Methodist Church. The TN Conference covers Middle Tennessee and isn't as big as the Holston Conference. Warmth in Winter had about 2,000 youth. Thinking back to the youth events I went to in Mississippi, this is still HUGE.

When I first agreed to go to Resurrection I saw it as a weekend trip to Gatlinburg, so I thought it'd be fun. The free time that we spent hanging out in Gatlinburg turned out to be one of the least exciting parts of the trip. Resurrection turned out to be an opportunity for me to take a step back and look at all the reasons that I work at Mountain T.O.P. So many times, I get caught up in the to do lists, projects, and stress of the job and forget that two of our foundational objectives are to develop leadership skills and to actively encourage Christian growth in our participants and staff. I was reminded that the stress of the job doesn't even come close to comparing to the impact that this ministry has on the lives of the people that come in and out of our gates, especially the youth during the summer.

Reggie Dabbs, the main speaker at Resurrection, has a way of connecting with the youth that was obviously a gift from God. He told stories about his childhood and told other stories he made up to get the point across that God loves each and every one of us and nothing we do is going to change that. He also entertained everybody with his Saxophone skills. He shared how he experienced God's love through his foster parents while growing up in Knoxville. He had a way of connecting with his audience that let him be completely upfront and sometimes blunt with them. During the second worship session of the weekend, he asked for all of the adult females to stand in the aisles and look back at their youth. Then, he asked any of the youth that had thought of suicide to stand up (at this point I thought he was crazy because why would a youth that was thinking about that stand up and announce it to the whole place). But they stood up. He then told the women in the aisles to go to the youth and embrace them to let them feel the love of God. The most amazing thing that happened in this worship was watching the whole youth groups gather around the youth that were struggling and surround them with God's love. Many times working at MTOP we experience God's love in many different ways, but when I was watching this outpouring of God's love, it felt different from any other time I have ever felt it before. I felt like I was just looking in at it. I didn't know any of these youth and I had no real connection to anyone in the room. It's absolutely amazing how the Holy Spirit comes into a room of over 6,000 people and touches everyone in such a strong way. Looking around I don't think I saw one person in the room that didn't have a look of loving concern on their face. Almost everyone I saw had tears streaming down their face. Many of the people in the room that I could see were praying for the youth as well. This is the kind of expression of God's love that I am amazed by every time. People who have no contact to the people that are in need of love, but still pour that love on them by praying for them.

I would be lying if I told you that when he first asked those youth to stand up I didn't feel uncomfortable and kind of wanted to leave the room because I felt like it was something that was very personal for them and what could I offer just standing in the back never having met these youth before. But I decided not to and instead started praying along with the others in the room and in the end I experienced the love of God in a new and, at first, uncomfortable way that I never have before and that I never will forget. Experiencing the Holy Spirit in that room reminded me why I have been called to ministry here at MTOP. It's not just to organize projects and make sure people have what they need to complete it, but it's about loving everyone that I come in contact with and even the ones I don't. It reminded me that I am called to share God's love in every way I can think of and even ways that I have never thought of before. As Mrs. Peggy, a woman in my Disciple class, says often, "We have to be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit." Where ever and whenever it happens, I have to be ready to go whichever I'm being led and I have to be ready to share God's love in new ways that I might be uncomfortable with.

This wasn't exactly what I had planned on talking about when I started, but I don't see a problem with going off on tangents, so... back to the original topic.

It was great being able to talk to people about MTOP and what we do. There were many people at Resurrection that had never heard of MTOP before. It was nice to be able to share this ministry that has been so influential in my life with people who had never heard of it.

Warmth in Winter was a little different than Resurrection. People in the TN Conference know MTOP and many of them have been campers. It was nice to see some friends and hear stories of past MTOP experiences. The best part was being able to fly around a big clown fish that said "Quit clowing around come to MTOP" on one side and "We fish for people, come to MTOP" on the other (yes I spelled clowning wrong, but that's because it was spelled wrong on the fish and we didn't realize it for a while). Here is a link to a video Sam took of the fish flying around and some of the people who liked the fish (notice the guy petting it). Big flying fish!

The past two weekends have reminded me that the youth that come into camp aren't just loud and very energetic, but it has reminded me that so many of them are on fire for God and love to share the love that He as freely given to them. That is why it's so exciting that we get to explore God's love in more depth this year with our theme from 1John 3. I saw real love practiced in many ways over the past couple of weekends and I can't even begin to imagine the outpouring of God's love that will come as a result of the youth at those two conferences. But I guess that's not for me to know. God sees every bit of it, and He knows that it is from His Word being shared with those youth from their leaders and the many different opportunities the leaders give their youth to experience and share that love. It also reminded me of what can happen when we don't stand in the way of the Holy Spirit and let It move through us in ways that we can't even begin to think of... until it happens. Praise God.

Why Youth Summer Ministry? - Part 2

2012-01-25T11:32:00.000-06:00

Beautiful thoughts from Elise Low, former summer staff/intern, on the lasting impact a week of service at Mountain T.O.P. has on you and your youth.

Though I wasn't able to attend the Gathering this year, I was able to participate in the 30 Hour Famine with the youth group at Saline UMC. While many were gathered to celebrate another year of ministry on the Mountain, I had the privilege of seeing first-hand the year-round, life-long impact Mountain T.O.P. makes in the lives of youth and adults all the way in the suburban semi-tundra of Michigan. I've heard a lot of Mountain TOP stories from the youth since I've returned to Saline -- after all, who doesn't walk away from a YSM week with a few stories to tell?! Yet, as I spent 30 hours in prayer, service and reflection with these teens, as I watched them plan a worship service, and as heard them share eloquent, powerful words with the whole congregation, I had to step back in awe of my God.

Student after student shared with boldness and authenticity stories of God at work in their lives - overcoming fear, understanding His grace, learning to embrace the humbling journey. One such student shared specifically of God meeting him and transforming him at Mountain T.O.P. one Friday night this past summer, filling him with the love of God in a way He had never known, a love that overwhelmed him, transformed him, and spurred him on. And that transformation did not stay on the Mountain -- it is alive and well in Saline, Michigan. It is alive and well in the hearts of students who go 30 hours without food - joyfully- for the sake of their neighbors and for the glory of God. It is alive in well in the hearts of youth who ask important questions and seek to learn more. It is alive and well in the hearts of students who seek to love not just in word, but in action and in truth.

What a humbling privilege to experience the very real ways that Mountain T.O.P. is truly more than just a vessel for one-week experiences. This ministry matters. But this kind of transformation is the kind of thing that Mountain T.O.P. could never orchestrate. It's the kind of thing the most dedicated youth minister could never orchestrate. It is absolutely the result of God at work. He is at work at Mountain T.O.P. He is at work in the valley below. He is at work in Saline, Michigan. But most of all, He is at work in the hearts of His children. Thanks be to God!

2011 in Review - Executive Director, Ed Simmons

2012-01-18T13:02:00.000-06:00

Mountain T.O.P.’s 36^th year in ministry was successful using any measure. God’s abundant love and message of hope for a better tomorrow was shared in so many real and tangible ways. This ministry represented by the volunteers and staff responded to the challenge given last year to be salt & light for Christ. The result was a gift of joy, peace and comfort to the many individuals, families and businesses that make up our broad service area. We again kept true to our call and fulfilled the vision God has for this ministry.

Below are some thoughts I shared at The Gathering concerning how the ministry responded to God’s call.

Specifically this involved almost 2000 campers from over 100 churches, reaching out to almost 450 families in our service area with 39 staff members. 161 new families were served and 191 children participated in our programs for youth and children (up 16% over 2010).
Julie shared with us the incredible success of our 2011 extending the partnership effort. This program is just a part of how we strive to serve in an ever expanding way within our service area.
Two local churches (Morton UMC & McMinnville FUMC) prepared snack packs for the children in our summer programs
Thanks to Julie Duncan and her involvement in Vision Grundy, MTOP has continued its efforts to be more holistically involved in the community. Our hope is to continue to be involved in helping shape policy & programs that address the systemic issues families face.
In 2011 we reached our goal of having enough tools donated that we will no longer require churches to bring tool shed tools. This is the result of heroic efforts by Ray Jones, Jim & Carol Smith & the Central Illinois Conference, Dan Jacobson and churches leaving their tools behind. Our next goal is to build enough van buckets that no one will need to bring tools to YSM & BreakOut at all.
This year saw the addition of a high ropes course to our facilities. This course was used during Quest.
We successfully transitioned the summer AIM program from Beersheba Assembly to Cumberland Pines. This resulted in a 72% increase in participants from 2010.
We were awarded once again an $80,000 grant from the USDA for Home Preservation which will be used by our AIM and BreakOut programs in 2012 to improve housing in Grundy County. We have now received $210,000 in grants from the USDA HPG Program in the past 5 years.
In December we received a $15,000 grant from the McConnell Foundation in Sewanee dedicated to programs targeting youth in Grundy Co and helping them acquire skills for self-sufficiency and self-confidence.
Under the leadership, guidance, blood, sweat & tears of Sam, all new promotional videos were produced. These videos are getting great feedback from all who see them. They will be wonderful tools for telling the Mountain T.O.P. story and aid in recruiting churches & campers.
In 2011 we faced our most significant financial challenges in five years. The unprecedented drop in YSM campers at final deposit put us in a financial bind and has resulted in us playing catch-up.
The good news is we finished the year with all bills paid. The bad news is we used 2012 camper deposits to meet that goal. The 2012 Budget will need to be reduced by approximately $75,000 to compensate. (You can donate here!)
Our challenges are not unique in the non-profit world. We will overcome this challenge and continue to be a light for Christ to all we encounter.
All was possible this year because each of you and others like you chose to answer God’s call to serve. Thank you for hearing that call and responding in such a glorious manner.
To continue to respond to the needs presented to us, we are adding two new important programs in 2012.
The first is a camp week at Martin Methodist College in Pulaski. We are partnering with the college and Pulaski FUMC to expand our service area into Giles County. Campers and staff will stay and be fed in college dorms and cafeteria. Programming will be split between the church and campus. Our goal was 50 campers and we have already met that goal with 3 churches signed-up.
The second is county-wide day of service this Fall facilitated by MTOP with work being done by the people and organizations within the county. The idea is to help our neighbors help each other.
2012 recruiting for Summer Staff has begun and interviews scheduled.
2012 is shaping up to be another banner year of ministry. Lives will be impacted in a positive way for Christ.

2011 was a wonderful year of ministry. 2012 will be even better. Will you come and be a part of what God is doing in our service area? We would love to talk to you about how you or your church can help. Please contact Sam at sam@mountain-top.org for the many options available for participation.

Why Youth Summer Ministry?

2012-01-11T13:20:00.000-06:00

Awhile ago I got an email from a youth director who attended Mountain T.O.P. for the first time last summer. After reading his thoughts, I asked him a few more questions. I think Slocomb says it all. This is why Youth Summer Ministry at Mountain T.O.P. matters ...

Slocomb Reed and Lexi Romine

"Christ Church Cathedral Cincinnati came to Mountain T.O.P. for the first time this past summer (2010). Our youth group had a bit of experience with other missional home-repair organizations and was attracted to Mountain T.O.P. by the incredible (in some cases fantastical) stories we heard about it from other Episcopal churches in our area. We learned quickly upon arriving at “the mountain” that this ministry was much more than just repairing houses and making people’s lives more physically accommodating.

First, we were impressed by Mountain T.O.P.’s efforts to meet the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of everyone whom they serve. Personally, the most profound experience I had was spending an entire day playing baseball with elementary-aged kids while other members of our YRG team repaired a couple staircases for their parents and grandparents. They entire neighborhood got out on their porches to watch us; a simple game of baseball united the neighborhood. Afterwards, the grandmother of a couple of the kids stopped us to let us know that the kids spend all summer excited to play with the Mountain T.O.P. people who come to serve them (physically, spiritually, emotionally and socially!) and afterwards, spend the rest of the summer talking about how much fun they had with the Mountain T.O.P. kids.

Second, as the brand-new youth director with Christ Church, I most appreciated the opportunity to sit back and observe as the Mountain T.O.P. staff ministered with my youth group. It was the first time that most of my Christ Church Cathedral kids ever experienced contemporary, conversational or experiential worship! And they loved it! Towards the end of the week my youth group, my fourteen- to sixteen-year old kids, came to me telling me that they were spiritually hungry! They were spiritually hungry, and they were experiencing worship that filled them, there on the mountain.

Since last summer we have worked here in Cincinnati to create experiential, conversational and contemporary-style worship opportunities for our youth group. They are now more engaged in our parish community than they have been for years."

Gather Together!

2012-01-10T12:03:00.001-06:00

What a beautiful night of celebrating and reflecting on all God has done and will continue to do through Mountain T.O.P.! Thank you to the 70 people who came to the Gathering this past Saturday at Camp Cumberland Pines! We cannot express how heart-warming and inspiring your presence and passion is to us!!!

For those of you who couldn't come, the evening included a lot of tacky Christmas attire, dinner made by volunteers, dessert donated by the DutchMaid Bakery, a 2011 slide show, a loud, joyful praise time, thoughts on 2011 and 2012 by Rev. Ed Simmons, a 2012 theme revealing and a hopeful concluding prayer for 2012.

We also want to say thank you for contributing to the love offering! Through your gifts, we received $852! And for those of you who don't know, we recently entered into partnership with the Mayhews (Beersheba Porcelain) so that at designated events, we can sell their pottery and receive half the proceeds! Saturday night, we received almost $200 because of your purchases!

Thanks to Kim for an awesome setup!

2011 Reflection space!

YAY former staff for coming!

Share the theme for 2012!!!

"Extre, Extre!!!" Tools!

2011-12-14T15:12:00.009-06:00

We were recently blessed with a very large tool donation from the Central Illinois Conference. Jim and Carol Smith loaded down their pick-up and an 18-foot trailer full of tools and drove all the way from Illinois to Altamont to drop them off. This donation will serve two very important purposes. First, it will supplement our community tool inventory. We have already eliminated the need for churches to bring large community tools, but we know some will get damaged or broken each year, so we will need replacements. This donation will also kick start our next goal: to provide complete van buckets with all the required tools for churches that are new or have trouble gathering such a long list of small tools. This tool donation, along with a $500 gift card we won from Home Depot, will allow us to build up to 10 van buckets. Having those pre-made van buckets will be invaluable to us when groups show up a little unprepared in the tool department. Maybe one day in the near future, churches won't need to bring tools at all!

If you are interested in donating tools or money to help us reach our goal, please email or call Jay to find out what we need most.
931-692-3999
jay@mountain-top.org

Here is a complete list of the tools donated:

95	-1/4” Socket Hand Driver
20-	2ft. Level
3	5-in-1 Painter's Tool
6	Adjustable Wrench
7	Axe
4	Bolt Cutters
9	Brace and Bit
1	Brush Blade
3	Caulk Guns
6	Chalk Lines
6	Chisels
1	Circular Saw
34	Clamps
6	Compass Saw
6	Concrete Edger
2	Concrete Float
30	Crow Bars
26	Drywall Putty Knife
2	Drywall Saw
14	File
26	Flat Pry Bar
20	Hacksaw
7	Hammer-Ball Pein
252	Hammer-Claw
4	Hand Drills
80	Hand Saw
8	Hatchets
6	Hedge Clippers
9	Hex Key Sets
7	Hoe
2	Hoe-Grubbing
4	Household Tool Sets
3	Inside Corner Tool
2	Keyhole Saw
1	Mattock
7	Mini Sledge
7	Miter Saw
3	Nail Puller-Cat's Paw
4	Nail Set
2	Pick
7	Pipe Wrench
4	Plier-Diagonal Cutting
3	Pliers-Channel Lock
3	Pliers-Lineman's
5	Pliers-Locking “Vice Grip”
11	Pliers-Needle nose
27	Pliers-Slip Joint
2	Post Hole Digger
5	Power Drill
10	Pruning Saw
3	Pruning Shears
31	Rake-Gravel
5	Rake-Leaf
2	Rubber Mallet
12	Screwdriver Set
96	Screwdriver-Flat
60	Screwdriver-Phillips
28	Shovel-Flat
80	Shovel-Spade
2	Sledge Hammer
1	Sounding Rod
13	Square-Combination
12	Square-Framing
11	Square-Speed
1	Swing Blade
57	Tape Measures
6	Tin Snips
12	Torpedo Level
3	Trowel-Finishing
2	Trowel-Margin
11	Trowel-Masonry
2	Trowel-Notched
1	Tuck Pointer
17	Utility Knife
1	Wood Rasp

Living like Mary

2011-12-07T10:29:00.004-06:00

I started this Advent season by going back to Luke to re-read the births of John and Jesus. This time, I noticed the responses from Zechariah and Mary when approached by the angel Gabriel. Both were startled, "gripped with fear," "troubled at his words," but Zechariah received a sentence for his retort. After asking the angel, "How can I be sure of this?" The angel answered, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time."

Zechariah, unsure of how this all would be made possible, doubted the angel. Because he wanted to know how, wanted answers, wanted proof, he was silenced until the day Elizabeth delivered.

On the contrary, maybe because the angel told her that Elizabeth would give birth, maybe not... Mary responded this way, "I am the Lord's servant ... May it be to me as you have said."

Now, I don't know about you, but most of the time I respond like Zechariah. I want to know how, or why. I want answers. I want proof. I want to know that what I'm getting into will have a fruitful outcome. That I will succeed. That I will not be defeated. That God will act in a mighty way.

But truthfully, we, of all people, should respond to what God ask us to do like Mary. We should possess the attitude of Mary. This is how Henri Nouwen puts it ...

“Just imagine what Mary was actually saying in the words, ‘I am the handmaid of the Lord ... let what you have said be done to me’ (Luke 1:38). She was saying, ‘I don’t know what this all means, but I trust that good things will happen.’ She trusted so deeply that her waiting was open to all possibilities. And she did not want to control them. She believed that when she listened carefully she could trust what was going to happen.

“To wait open-endedly is an enormously radical attitude toward life. So is to trust that something will happen to us that is far beyond our own imaginings. So, too, is giving up control over our future and letting God define our life, trusting that God molds us according to God’s love and not according to our fear. The spiritual life is a life in which we wait, actively present to the moment, trusting that new things will happen to us, new things that are far beyond our own imagination, fantasy, or prediction. That, indeed, is a very radical stance toward life in a world preoccupied with control.”

Around here, especially at the end of the year, it can be hard to approach each day like Mary. To believe that what seems impossible to us is truly possible through God. Because God asked us to be here, all things are possible. We are Mary every single day, saying, "I am your servant ... May it be as you have said." And with that "yes" comes active waiting, trusting and faith. We must have hope in the words spoken to Mary that night ... "For nothing is impossible with God."

You should know that God does prove that He is moving in this ministry through YOU...

In the 5 truck beds full of tools being delivered to us this Friday from Jim Smith in Mount Zion, IL.
In the $600 given by Carolina Cross Connection, a non-profit ministry just like Mountain T.O.P. seeking to raise their OWN funds right now.
In the $590 given by the Church of the Savior because they responded to us asking to take up a love offering for the ministry.
In the Christmas cards full of hope, joy and thanksgiving for all that Mountain T.O.P. has done in lives of others.
In the registration of new churches for our 2012 programs.
In the volunteers coming this Thursday and Friday to help Doris Bivens move into her home before Christmas.

As we continue in this ministry together, may we live like we believe that all things are possible through God!

Baker Mountain Gets Some Love!

2011-12-06T15:31:00.005-06:00

I know that our main and Mother camp is Cumberland Pines. And, believe me, I do love Pines. Still, as the most recent full time resident and crusader for Baker, I feel moved to give you an update on our satellite camp. We were recently contacted by Leanne Fisher from Caney Fork Electric Co-op asking for a "favor." (I put that in quotes because it was actually a great partnership).

They are in the process of trimming limbs off of electrical lines in the Spencer area and really wanted a place to park the large bucket trucks to save the fuel cost of driving back and forth to McMinnville each day. Of course we wanted to help out, and Leanne made it really easy for us. Without even expressing the need, Caney Fork offered to cut down two damaged and hazardous trees from the property (some of you may remember the lightning incident of Summer '11 when a tree exploded outside the Staff Lodge). I'm so glad that MTOP could partner with Caney Fork and give Baker a little love in the process.

One more random Baker update: Some of you may know our neighbor and pro-bono caretaker at Baker, Elijah Curtis. He is such a gift to us and keeps me informed whenever any sketchy activity or damages occur at camp. He lives with and takes care of his mother who just turned 90 years old last Friday! She still walks with the help of a walker, and definitely has a very quick wit about her. She cracks me up every time I visit. Still, she and Elijah struggle with finances and health each day. He recently sold his prized Camaro convertible to help pay bills. When you get a moment, say a prayer for Elijah and his mother for all that they do for me and this ministry.

A Merry Christmas for the Grundy County Food Bank!

2011-12-06T12:37:00.000-06:00

We received a Christmas Card from the Grundy County Food Bank today. I wanted to share the beautiful words of joy they wrote. It reads,

"If one were to look from the sky, they would surely see a bright shining spot coming from the far corner of Grundy County and that bright spot would be the Grundy County Food Bank. We shine, we glow, and we are ever so thankful for all that we are able to do for the many needy folks of Grundy County and neighboring communities.

However, this would not be possible without the help and support we receive from folks like you. We are forever amazed at the generous and kind people that come forward with monetary contributions, words of prayer and support and continued encouragement to keep the Grundy County Food Bank moving forward day by day, month by month, and year by year.

May you always know that we appreciate what you have done in 2011. Without you, we would not be! From our hundreds of families we serve, the many agencies we help, we say ... Merry Christmas!"

A huge thank you to everyone involved in helping construct a wall at the Grundy County Food Bank this fall! You were the LIGHT for this organization!

Thanks to our Board Members!

2011-12-02T12:54:00.000-06:00

Last night, the full-time staff had the privilege of joining the Board at their December/Christmas party board meeting. I say it was a privilege because it was so nice to sit around the table and see how the Spirit really selected a team of unique, devoted, Mountain T.O.P. lovin' people! I heard wisdom from a former lawyer, a trustee, a few youth pastors, a fundraiser, a construction guru, a devoted camper... the body, with many parts, manifesting in front of my eyes. I felt encouraged in seeing and hearing and feeling just how much Mountain T.O.P. and the mission God has called each of us to plays in our functioning as a team. And I left hopeful, knowing that God has big dreams for us.. that He will help us when the day to day seems daunting and impossible... that He will come for us when we feel defeated, discouraged or forgotten... that He will send others to uplift us and encourage us .. that His mission on this mountain is taking off... that it will continue, even when the money isn't in, or the campers decrease.

Thank you, board members...for your presence, your hope and your passion to further this ministry! We look forward to seeing you at the Gathering on Jan. 7th! ;)

Ask Bigger Questions

2011-11-30T10:14:00.002-06:00

I subscribe to several email newsletters that are published on a bi/weekly basis. Some weeks, I am able to take time to really read an article that catches my eye; other times I might just have to delete the email because I am so overwhelmed with other tasks. This morning, I took a moment to scan the Lewis Center's email (out of Wesley Theological Seminary), and ran across an article that was hugely inspiring.

In it, the author tells a story about a presentation by Steve Jobs to the city council where the new Apple headquarters is located. Instead of being excited about all that Apple was going to bring to the city via taxes, affluence (i.e., more money), and green space, the people asked, "Will we get free Wi-Fi?" To which the author of the article writes,"Most of the time our questions are too small. When faced with great challenge, great possibility, great vision, great people, we tend to ask small questions. Here was Steve Jobs presenting a visionary new project, and the first question was, 'Can we have free Wi-Fi?' Really?"

And that got me thinking about all of us, who hold visions, offer visions, dream about great possibilities in response to being Kingdom children. In offering our visions, people respond to us with the small questions, to which we think really? And unfortunately, I find myself not offering those visions because I'm not sure how others will respond, or if it is the right way to go. It's much easier to meet a challenge when the majority sees the vision.

The article also got me thinking about Advent, and what I am preparing for. Fr. Richard Rohr writes, "'Come, Lord Jesus,' the Advent prayer, means that all of Christian history has to live out of a kind of deliberate emptiness or chosen non-fulfillment. Perfect fullness is always to come, and we do not need to demand it now. This keeps the field of life wide open and especially open to grace and to a future created by God rather than us. This is what it means to be 'awake,' as the gospel urges us (Matt 24.42)!"

In ministries all across the world right now, we are all in a fund raising mode, whether that is for our end of the year finances or for direct services that are in such high need at this time of the year (think heating costs, Christmas presents, homelessness in cold temps) or to capitalize on the Christmas gift-giving frenzy. We are either hold our breath in hopes to make it through the end of the year, or we find ourselves engulfed by overwhelming needs on our door steps. Instead of biding our time until 12/31/11, maybe we need to remember that Advent is the perfect time to keep awake, to let our dreams unfold, to keep the field of life wide open, to as the bigger questions.

The article concludes this way:

"Right now is a time for asking big questions... Big questions open us to unthought-of possibilities. Big questions, as Jobs knew, lead to innovation. Big questions leave room for God and the work of the Holy Spirit. When we are confronted with the limits of our own knowledge and understanding, it is then that we turn to God and others."

Circles of influence

2011-11-28T13:17:00.001-06:00

It's nice to know that there are so many places I can go in the US and be close to a church that has some sort of relationship with Mountain T.O.P. The Sunday before Thanksgiving, I was vacationing with my family in Florida, and I attended church at UMC of the Palm Beaches. A group of youth and adults from this church attended YSM this past summer. It was good to see familiar faces in worship! I always find it a gift to be able to worship with MTOP campers at their home church.

The associate pastor, Jen Harner Sims, grew up in a church that attended MTOP when she was a youth. During the service, Jen spoke about how much MTOP was an influence on her as a youth and then in choosing a vocation in ministry. Even though Jen and I only knew each other through phone calls and emails, I was proud to know MTOP had been such a great influence in her life.

Again, I was reminded of how important our presence is in one another's lives. We never know the influence we might have, or the transformation that the experiences we foster can bring. I am so grateful for the 80+ youth workers who gather together hundreds of youth to come do mission with MTOP. This reminder helps me move beyond the sentimentality of Christmas and the Advent season - that the incarnational ministry in which we participate IS God in the flesh, not just some sweet story that we like to repeat on an annual basis or some mission trip that is fun or cool to be a part of.

I think that one of the best gifts I could receive would be to know that somewhere, along in my past, someone was transformed by knowing Christ through my actions.

The Change

2011-11-16T15:43:00.004-06:00

Claire Schottelkotte wrote this article for her church newsletter, "Redeemer News", for The Church of the Redeemer in Cincinnati, OH. Enjoy!

"Two years ago, I was in the eighth grade, I had good friends, I got along with my brother and sister (most of the time), and I got along with my parents (most of the time). There was one day a week when we wouldn't get along at all. Always the same day. Always Sunday. None of us ever wanted to go to church so we tried everything we could to avoid it. If you woke up early on Sunday morning, no one would move at all, just in case our parents had forgot about church, we didn't want to take a chance of waking them up and reminding them. But they never forgot, and eventually we would have to go. One day my mom came to me and told me about this new mission trip for my age group to the Appalachian mountains and she wanted me to go. I talked to some friends of mine who were also going to go. We got excited for it and I looked forward to it.

The day we drove down to Tennessee was a lot of fun. We played games, sang, talked, and everything was good. We made it to the Roberts' lake house, we swam and hung out, Kyle briefed us on what was to come, and we were all having a good time. We left early to drive the rest of the way to the camp site. The second we actually got to the camp it hit me - I was about to spend an entire week basically at church. I couldn't stand to sit through an hour of church once a week, what made me think I wanted to do this? I don't know anything about religion and I really have no desire to learn. I had totally freaked myself out at that point, and was really concerned with what the week would have in store for me. I was only sure of one thing, this week was not going to be what I was expecting. That, I was right about. By the end of the night my mind had been changed (maybe not quite yet completely because I was still a little iffy on the next day when everything actually started). I got the chance to work on people's houses and help them when they were in need. I built a porch for someone and gave them a person to talk to because many of them do not get a lot of visitors. Also I got to meet new people and make great friends that I otherwise would have never met. By the end of the week I knew that there was a reason that I was there and I knew I would never be the same person.

After anyone goes on a mission trip, almost everyone will say that they got more out of it than they gave. For me, this was more than just an awesome feeling I got from being there. Because of Mountain T.O.P., I really found the importance of religion and what I was missing out on before. Since then, religion has been a big part of my life. Since my first trip to Mountain T.O.P I have really begun to question and strengthen my faith, I have begun to enjoy and explore my faith and without Mountain T.O.P., I honestly believe I would not be where I am. I wouldn't be who I am today, I wouldn't have some of the friends I do, and I definitely wouldn't be standing in front of you now. If I had not been given the opportunity to go on this trip, nothing in my life would be as it is, and I am truly blessed and grateful to be given the chance. Thanks to you, this entire experience was possible for me and many others, and i can't begin to express my gratitude. I want to sincerely thank all of you for your support".

ReFramed

2011-11-11T18:54:00.001-06:00

Over the past 2 days, the Mountain T.O.P. staff participated in ReFrame, a conference for home repair non-profits working in Appalachia. The whole premise of this gathering was to collaborate, share ideas, best practices, wisdom, and information.

Truth be known, I think it's typical to leave conferences feeling drained or overwhelmed. But that didn't happen this time! I think that's because the format of the conference valued the wisdom of every attendee. We relied on the experience and knowledge of the participants in each session. Facilitators were in place to do just that, help guide the conversations.

Not only did we walk away with new ideas, we walked away invigorated by the collaboration. That's really hard to do, spending 7.5 hours in workshops in just over 24 hours. I think the key was that we didn't spend a lot of our time listening to "special" speakers or presentations. Instead, we listened to each other, everyone, no matter if you did 700 projects a year or 5 projects a year. And that made A LOT of difference.

Well,...that, and Jay's performance at the Holiday Inn's Karaoke Klub. I think Bo has the video. You should ask him about it.

All Saints.

2011-11-09T12:49:00.000-06:00

The service on All Saints Sunday was particularly moving. My pastor, Von Unruh, admits that it is his favorite Sunday of the year because ... "On all other Sundays, we focus on God's glory as we offer to God our praise. Rightly so. But on All Saints, we do something we otherwise do only at funerals. We praise the beauty and sanctity of our brothers and sisters in Christ. On this day we say to God, 'See? We really can do this!'...

He continued with this image, "John saw a multitude so vast no one could count it. People were gathering from every nation, tribe, language, and people, filling the whole earth! He saw the holy army of God, men and women of faith whose fight had not been 'against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark work and agains the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms' (Ephesians 6:12). The army was unlike any he had ever seen. They weren't battle-hardened veterans dressed in combat fatigues. They were the blessed martyrs of the church, dressed in white robes. Their sacrificial blood mingled with incense, their lives the aroma of prayer pleasing to God. Dead to the world but alive to God, those saints encircled God's throne, the alleluias they sang God-directed and Spirit-prompted. A countless host found life-giving solace in God's love, life-altering peace in Christ's offering, joyous assurance in the Spirit's presence, strength for their journey to the table, blessed companionship in fellow pilgrims. For two thousand years, through gates of pearl, God's people have streamed unstopped, 'singing Father, Son and Holy Ghost.' Some claim the stream has dried to a trickle in our day, but they're wrong. That stream, now swollen, is a raging overflowing torrent."

What a powerful way to think of all the saints that have entered our lives. What a motivating image for the lives of service we have ahead. What a comforting thought of the ones we have loved and lost.

Von concluded by having us think of how full the pews really are when we gather ... "the dad you loved, still looking out for you; the friend you miss, even after all these years - all white-robed martyrs now - reaching for our hand as we encircle the Lamb on his throne." And maybe it's the same when we gather at Mountain T.O.P. I'd like to think of all that have come before, are here now, and those yet to come, fellowshipping and communing together as we work for the Kingdom.

Volunteers who paved the way.
Volunteers who serve today.
Volunteers who will help move God's plan for this mountain to completion.

Just this past Fall, two Mountain T.O.P. saints passed away. Dennis Mitchell, who participated in AIM for many years during the early to mid 90s and shared his voice at Friday night worship services, and Jim McCaig, a member of Pulaski FUMC. His friend and fellow AIM participant, Shane Woodard, said Jim was a long-time lover and supporter of Mountain T.O.P. And, that he was wearing a fish hook on his jacket when he was buried. To which his wife commented, "He's still fishing."

Perhaps we can visualize these and other Mountain T.O.P. saints gathering around the throne proclaiming, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty..." but also remember that they are still here with us ... fishing for people.

Your overflow is someone else's necessity.

2011-11-04T13:39:00.002-05:00

Kim told me about this Nooma video she watched at church on Wednesday night. There are very powerful thoughts streaming throughout...

Here's a preview:

"...after awhile they started to wonder if they weren't the one who were actually poor."

Here's the video:
(enjoy the Spanish subtitles)

Corner by Rob Bell

Here's a way to help if you're inspired to do so:

Mountain T.O.P. Annual Giving Fund

Disappointment.

2011-11-03T15:56:00.000-05:00

Well, the title sounds a little debbie downer-ish, but I'm not here to be a debbie. The only little debbie I like is the kind you eat. I'm not a fan of other debbies.

Disappointment is an intriguing feeling and I've thought about it today.

I read once that "disappointment can be cured by revamped expectations." I think this can sound harsh, but if you apply it to a situation it makes sense. Think of what disappointment brings about. Frustration. Stress. Tears. Pain... and in situations of great cost, intense suffering. I'm disappointed when I expect someone to do a) or b) for me. I'm disappointed when I want someone to act/work/live a certain way. I'm disappointed when someone doesn't live up to the expectations I have for them in my mind...

And see, at least in some cases, I think we expect too much. We expect without ever telling the other person what it is that we expect... and well, then our expectations are set too high. All to say, maybe disappointment is cured by revamped expectations. In some sense, I control how disappointed I am with a certain outcome.

I think about this a lot in personal relationships with people. What do I expect of my mom, my best friend, my significant other? Is it realistic or is it just what I want? Is it just how I think a mom, a best friend or a significant other should act or did they really let me down? When I am let down or disappointed by one of these people, is it because I expected something different? ...

What I've come to understand through these situations is that God is the only person that will never disappoint us. Never let us down. Never give up. Never respond in a way that isn't out of love.

Just think of these verses in Romans 5:3-5, "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Suffering, that which comes by being disappointed, is met with rejoicing. Why? Because we find joy in the only thing that never disappoints: GOD. He who has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Or, in other words gently spoken to me by a friend, "Love is patient... and He's always up to something beautiful."

Intergenerational.

2011-11-02T15:54:00.002-05:00

I was recently asked to contribute to an article in The Reporter with thoughts on the benefits of intergenerational ministry. It's funny how God brings forth the "selling" points I should be using when talking about Mountain T.O.P. Just one week prior an AIM camper suggested we market AIM by emphasizing the intergenerational experience. (Yes, of course we read the evals!)

Missy Buchanan, author of "Talking with God in Old Age," is a contributing writer to The Reporter. (She's also been on Good Morning America!) We connected partly because she's my boyfriend's aunt. See how connections make a difference!

Anyway, I'll share that link when it's time. For now, I wanted to share about someone who motivates me.

Mrs. Alice Shaw is from Longstreet UMC in Memphis, TN.
Alice is a hard worker, a mother, a good friend.
She likes big bows in her hair.
She is 82.

The Thursday night she arrived this fall for AIM, we had a great talk on the new Fellowship Porch. We talked about her sons, Doc and Richard, and her daughter-in-law, Terrie. We talked about how long she's worked on hospice service (12 years), which she thinks is very therapeutic. And then after about 30 minutes, she reached into her pocket to show me the note she was holding onto. It read, "If you're wondering if your mission on earth is over ... if you're still alive, it's not."

That one note said a lot.

Alice's note indicates a lifestyle of service. Her fearlessness models one. She isn't held back by age or lack of mobility or feelings of inadequacy. If you're alive, serve. Don't succumb to fear. "Fear breeds a deadening caution, a holding back, a stagnant waiting until people no longer can recall what they are waiting for or saving themselves for. When we fear failure more than we love life; when we are dominated by thoughts of what we might have been rather than by thoughts of what we might become; when we are haunted by the disparity between our ideal self and our real self; when we are tormented by guilt, shame, remorse, and self-condemnation, we deny our faith in the God of love." - Brennan Manning, The Signature of Jesus

If you're alive, serve.

It's always a matter of faith.

2011-11-01T14:56:00.004-05:00

I'm constantly inspired by the people who love this ministry and fight for it. This morning I received a phone call from Jim Smith, an adult leader who started bringing Mt. Zion youth a couple of summers ago. Since his first experience at camp, Jim has been a faithful advocate of Mountain T.O.P. It goes to show that when you experience God in a life-changing sort of way, your lifestyle becomes one of giving because of gratitude. For some people that giving comes our way, and for that we are extremely grateful.

Jim called to say that the UM Men of the Illinois conference collected tools for Haiti back when the earthquake hit. With an overwhelming response by the UM church, there are 6,000 pounds of tools without a home. THAT'S RIGHT. SIX THOUSAND POUNDS OF TOOLS. Can you even imagine? Because of the overabundance, the conference is willing to share with organizations that need them. And because of someone who believes in MTOP and understands our need, we will be getting more tools! Jim is even going to check them out, put them in a trailer and bring them down. Wow.

And all of this got me thinking ... at times we aren't sure how it's all going to happen. How will we have enough money to make it? What happens when we don't have anymore money? What if people aren't able to give this year? (Questions I know every non-profit asks at the end of the year.) But the truth is this: God always provides, mostly in ways we don't expect. If you remember, we sent out an October Newsletter that highlighted different ways to give to MTOP. One of them is to provide money for more tools. And well, instead of money, we got tools.

I think what we have to maintain amidst trial is faith. Trust + patience = authentic faith. Or, as someone smarter than me puts it, "Perhaps this is the essence of faith: to be convinced of the reliability of God." - Van Breeman, Called by Name.

I think for as long as God wants people to keep working for Him through our mission, He'll keep inspiring His people to give even more than their weeks/weekends of service. It's not that we sit around saying, "It will be okay." We take action. We give. We do. We fight. We ask. But as long as we're trying to facilitate change, convinced of the reliability of God, we will, in fact, be okay.

Here's how you can help: Annual Giving Fund

Stay Salty . . .

2011-10-27T15:11:00.006-05:00

In Matthew 5:13 Jesus says, "You are the SALT of the earth". Jesus doesn't mean the salt that's in your salt shaker or the salt that keeps your car on an icy road. During the time when Jesus was preaching the Sermon on the Mount salt was highly regarded. The Roman government would even pay the Roman army with salt (that's where our term SALARY came from). Romans were even able to pay the very oppressive taxes with salt. So for Jesus to call us "the SALT of the earth" in essence means "You're important. You matter. You're valuable."

You ARE the SALT of the earth - that does not say "you are the salt of the earth if you do this, or read this, or do this work, or help this person" Jesus said, "You ARE the salt of the earth". There's nothing you can do to make yourself more salty than you already are. But the rest of this verse goes on to say that salt can lose it's saltiness. What are ways that we as Christians can lose our saltiness? Doubt, technology, commercialism, consumerism, guilt, "I'm not good enough" thoughts? Jesus doesn't want us to lose our saltiness. He wants us to be able to be used by him. Did you know that the salt industry claims that salt has 14,000 uses!!! Can you imagine how many uses we can have if we are willing to have God use us??? Me neither!

No matter where we are, on the mountain or in the valley, God will use us if we're just willing!

So let's go out there and STAY SALTY!

Front page, above the fold!

2011-10-26T14:00:00.001-05:00

We made the front page of the Grundy County Herald (10/13/11)!

An Adults In Ministry (AIM) fall weekend Ministry Production Team (MPT) from Weekend 2 was pictured at the site, the Grundy County Food Bank (GCFB). Caption under the picture reads, "Mountain T.O.P. Ministries comes through in a big way". Glen Vanden Bosch, director of the food bank, shared this quote, "They were a wonder to behold and we at the food bank are most grateful for their spirit of friendship and willingness to give of their time for the GCFB. Thank you!"

MTOP has been able to partner with the GCFB in many different ways. They are a great supporter of the ministry here, and we are thankful to Glen and the leadership at GCFB. They are one of a few food banks around the county who seek to provide basic necessities to families who are struggling. Despite his health issues, Glen spends many hours a week picking up food to distribute monthly around Grundy County.

Glen and his team provided hot lunches for the MPT as well as set up visitors to check on them. The MPT built a 70' wall to divide the new food bank building into usable space. We appreciate the opportunity to serve hundreds of families through the partnership with GCFB!

Unique.

2011-10-25T11:34:00.000-05:00

Though every weekend follows the same format, each weekend presents a certain uniqueness. New people, new community, new friendships, new pieces of the project puzzle, new devotions, re-newed faith. Truly, that is the beauty and blessing of this place!

Here are some pictures from Weekend 3 and Weekend 4. Soon, you'll here some reflections from the staff. Please be in prayer for our last and final weekend, which is so crucial for finishing projects/preparing families to weather the winter.

AIM Weekend 3 ...

AIM Weekend 4 ...

AIM Weekend 2!

2011-10-08T08:46:00.001-05:00

It's Fall! There are 60 volunteers from 8 churches and 6 states in camp this weekend. They range in age from 27-78. This weekend alone, they'll put in 976 volunteers hours and add an estimated value of $18,173.12 to eight different homes and the Grundy County Food Bank in rural Appalachia. The furthest group is from Appleton, Wisconsin and the closest is from Brentwood, TN.

Check out how it's going....

The View From Here

2011-09-27T15:39:00.007-05:00

The set-up is underway for the Mountain T.O.P. semi-annual YARD SALE!
Come out to Camp Cumberland Pines this Friday (Sept 30) & Saturday (Oct 1) from 8am-3pm

4 goats, 1 sheep and some peacocks

2011-09-16T14:12:00.002-05:00

The reminder of God's goodness and the joy of working in this place reveals itself through unexpected gifts of kind words, encouragement, letters, phone calls, emails and visits. Two days ago, we received a letter in the mail from Mr. and Mrs. James Teliha. It reads,

Dear Mt. Top,

We would like to thank your organization for your help at our home. In the past I had to crawl up our front steps. A group of your campers build a handrail for me at the front and side steps on June 22, 2011.

Another group painted our shed (7/14/2011) for us since I cannot climb a ladder due to my disabilities. Our shed is used to house four goats and one sheep, plus peacocks in bad weather.

My husband, Jim, age 72 has Alzheimer's and wanted his barn painted. He had built the barn alone without help or a written plan approximately ten years ago before he got sick. Your wonderful group painted the barn on 7/28/11.

Thank you for your help.

Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. James Teliha

And thank YOU to all the wonderful, willing servants of God that helped 430 families just like the Teliha's during the summer of 2011!

What is a Trader?

2011-09-08T10:32:00.001-05:00

One of my good friends shared this video with me last weekend... gave me something to think about...

What is a Trader?

G'bye Elsie (sniff, sniff)

2011-09-01T09:43:00.009-05:00

This morning, we officially bid farewell to our intern, Elise. If you have never had the opportunity to met her, let me just tell you...Elise is one of those people who is always ready to lend a hand. She's the one who follows through, the one you can depend on to get the job done. She's one of those people who make work not seem like work.

This summer, Elise answered countless phone calls and made contact calls to churches coming to YSM. She supported summer staffers, helped out musically, lit candles, and drove van routes. She was the one who stayed late to wash dishes and make sure everyone was safe in bad weather.

Elise is a recent college graduate, which means, yes, she is looking for work. So for those of you who are interested in Elise's more specific skills, here are the details:

She has an uncanny ability to stay calm in nutty situations.
She was one of the only females in the office who could answer technical construction questions. And possibly build a shed with one hand tied behind her back.
She has mad harmonica skillz.
She drives a mini van (This fact might not be helpful in seeking a job, though how many 20-somethings do you know who drive a mini van?).
She has an eye towards professionally produced videos (note: Elise's skills are professional. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about the subjects in her videos).

Elise has given 4 summers in a row to Mountain T.O.P., and the ministry is so much better because of her gifts. Thanks Elise! We love you!

'Ere we goooooo!

2011-08-30T12:48:00.003-05:00

Part of my daily tasks include updating our roster of people who are signed up for the Fall AIM weekends. While the lists can be deceiving, I like to keep my eye on the graph:

It is exciting to think what work will take place between now and November. Here are the stats as of today: we have 191 individuals signed up/reserved space from 10 different states that represent 32 churches from 7 different denominations. For 191 people, we will be putting in 3056 volunteer hours, which is a value of $56,902.72.

Right now we have 5 ongoing major home repair projects, and we are working on qualifying 6 new projects. So, as of today, we are going to help 11 families. $34,000 in Housing Preservation Grant money will be spent, along with 2 projects that will be funded by the families.

That's a grand total of $90,902.72 that we will be investing in homes and lives this fall. While that dollar amount might sound impressive, just think of all of the qualitative value that will be added to people's lives: hope, empowerment, a sense of community, renewed strength to persevere, confidence. It's hard to place a dollar amount on the value of all of that.

Where did you get that food?

2011-08-29T12:16:00.003-05:00

I live for unexpected calls. You know, the kind that not just break up the monotony of your day*, but also leave you in awe of how God orchestrates the ordinary times.

(*On the contrary, one would not describe summer days around here as monotonous, though the atypical-ness can become "normal" in its own respect.)

So, when Glenn, the director of the Grundy County Food Bank, called this summer to tell me that he wanted to share food from Bonnaroo*, I was immediately curious. "Food, from Bonnaroo?" Festival organizers were looking for a way to reclaim the left over food that was professionally prepared and served backstage for performers. Basically, the good stuff!

(*We actually warn our churches who come around Bonnaroo time about the traffic jams and unavailability of rental vans. Talk about crazy: they're not kidding when reports go out that the city of Manchester quadruples during Bonnaroo.)

Here is a short video that focuses on Bonnaroo's sustainability projects, including the food that they donated to Grundy County Food Bank. WARNING: there is a dirty word at 0:48, but it doesn't detract from the overall effect!

Most of the food donated from Bonnaroo ended up going to the homes of individual families in Grundy County, families that the food bank works with on a regular basis. I know people who appreciate the donated jar of peanut butter and loaf of bread. Just think how extravagant a prepared dinner of food like you'd get at a nice restaurant would be, especially when you aren't expecting it? Over 40% of children in Grundy County are "food insecure", meaning at times they don't have access to enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle. 6 of the 7 counties in our service area have moderately high food insecurity rates.

For as much as they throw a kink into our summer logistics, I have to applaud Bonnaroo organizers for re-purposing their resources. For some of us, it's a good meal not gone to waste, for others it's something extraordinary.

Another Day in the Life

2011-08-26T10:37:00.002-05:00

If there are any former Field Managers reading this blog, the image to the left should look familiar: broken trailer full of wood. Bo and I had one of those "classic" field days yesterday, and I thought I would share just to let you know that we're still doing work up here.

Our day began at Baker. There was still an impressive pile of logs left over from the trees we had removed at camp this summer. I thought there was no reason to let them sit and rot when they could be converted to heat for a family this Winter, so we cut up the immovable pieces and started loading the trailer. There's nothing like wielding a chainsaw to get going in the morning. After breaking a good sweat, it was time to shovel dried, rancid paint out of a truck bed liner up and over into the dumpster (tree huggers, don't fret: that is what the EPA told us to do). After we locked up my trailer and turned off the water, Baker was left to rest for the winter.

Of course, we had to stop and say goodbye to my neighbor Elijah. And of course I had to respectively haggle with him to reduce his offer of a full meal down to a piece of cake. We sat and ate our slab of cake covered in strawberries and visited with Elijah and his momma for a minute before heading out to finish a project. Not having to stop for lunch anymore, we drove straight to Centertown to flash a porch roof. Tar on our clothes, feeling good, and the family happy, we headed back toward camp when we were done.

With the mountain in sight, the trailer tire we had worried about all day finally decided to blow out and shred itself, leaving a rubbery trail of destruction. There was only one option. We had to stop on the side of a two lane highway, take the entire wheel off and hope the one remaining tire could support the two tons of logs sitting on top of it. After stopping to rearrange the load twice, we slowly limped back to camp and unloaded.

It was one of those days that would have been miserable if we didn't have each other to share in the misery. Instead, it became a successful day full of laughter and a story we'll remember. That got me thinking that there should really be a book comprised of epic Field (and Program) stories written by past Summer Staff. I know the stories out there. It would be like a "Behind the Scenes of MTOP: Told by the People that Made it Happen" collection of tales. I sometimes forget how often we cheat insurmountable odds and even death to make ministry happen. And it's all too much of a coincidence not to be touched by the hand of God.

We often speak of the field operations being the "What" of the ministry and the programming the "Why". You can't have one without the other. I've never been a huge fan of that clear distinction, seeing as they should be interchangeable and immersed in each other. Still, trying not to get too philosophical, that is what we have to do to in order to reach a generation (myself included) that has become much more self-centered and accepting of the status-quo. If we ask "What are we doing?" or "Why are we doing that?", the reasoning is most likely to see if that thing, trip, or task is worth our time; not if there is a need to be met or if God is calling us to that task. That is why the Mountain T.O.P. model has endured and continued to change lives for 36 years. We are forced to look beyond ourselves and deep into ourselves to discover the crucial questions that will bring us closer to God. Because of this, as staff, we endure sweat, blood, flaming trucks, flat tires, trailers full of garbage and debris, and any other number of filthy, joyful tasks in order to fulfill the call placed upon us to love our neighbors and bring to light the Kingdom God here on Earth.

My job is a privilege.

2011-08-24T10:41:00.004-05:00

During our summer staff closing we did a worship where everyone shared a little story about how God helped fill our cup this summer when we were empty. It was really cool to hear about how God works differently in everyone's lives. I thought it would be nice if I shared how God filled my cup this summer when I was empty.

Working up here full time is very rewarding for sure, but sometimes I get in the mindset of it just being a job. I sometimes forget about why I am here and how this helps expand God's Kingdom. During the last week of the summer we had a retreat group in camp that was working separately from the YSM camp we had going on at the same time. Jay and I were the ones that oversaw the projects and did the running back and forth between projects. About halfway through the week I just finished visiting with a group that was working on a bathroom so I was getting in my truck to go back to camp. I had figured that I could get back and sit and relax for a little bit before I would have to go back out. Well as I was saying bye to the woman we were working with Jay pulled up behind my truck to where I couldn't get out of the driveway. I was stuck. If you know Jay you know it's not going to be a real quick "hey, how's it going, good, see ya later." He stayed for about 15 minutes and talked with the group and then came outside and joined me in talking with the woman we were working with.

It was just the forced stop that I needed to realize why I am here. I get so caught up in the physical need and making sure it is getting met, that I forget to visit with the families and meet the other 3 needs (emotional, social and spiritual). God reminded me that day of why I am here and why I have been called to work on this mountain full time. It is not just so I can help out the groups with meeting the physical needs, it is because He needs me here to talk with the families and get to know them and share His love with them while experiencing His love from them.

O, My Soul, Keep Up ...

2011-08-11T14:33:00.001-05:00

About mid-way through this summer, I went home to Hoover for two nights. On Saturday of that weekend, I went to workout with my brother at a local church gym. My brother, Mike, is a big guy. Big shoulders. Big body. Tall. Ex-football player. (Husky, ain't ya?) Working out with him is no joke. He was on the Hoover High School football team (then Westpoint's, then UAB's). We're talking two-a-days. He was a middle-linebacker and his claim to fame in high school was sacking Tim Tebow (you really shouldn't need a link) when Hoover played Nease on ESPN. Believe it.

Lately, he's fallen out of working out as much as he used to (lucky me), so he's been trying to get back at it. Our day in the gym fell in the "I've only been doing this for three weeks" category. I really can't imagine how bad he'd shame me now.

We started by running on the treadmill (this is what I'm used to). I told him I was going to do two miles and then I'd play around with him on weights. But as soon as I'd completed 1 mile, he was hovering at the back of my treadmill telling me to come on. (I do not like hover-ers.) So I said okay and we headed to the free weights. He took out his phone and started talking about some Nike bootcamp workout videos (bascuse me? what?) and then proceeded to tell me to follow him in lunges around the room. Before I knew it, we were moving from drill to drill with little resting time in between. One second we were lifting ... the next we were doing push-ups... the next we were flinging weights above our heads... the next we were jogging around the room ... up, down, sideways ... whoa.

About 40 mins into the whole bit, I started feeling light-headed. It was right after we switched from a floor drill to a standing one. (I was not trying to whip my hair back and forth, but it felt about the same.) I told him I was going to lie down before I passed out (and I've never passed out... once I came close when Julie and I were riding bikes, but that's a different story. Had to lay down in a gutter then.) So I laid still for a few minutes and then decided I should go get some water. After several other minutes had passed, I told him I was ready to keep going (not a quitter).

As I got back into it, he noticed that I wasn't really breathing in and out like you're supposed to, so every time he didn't hear any air (insert airhead jokes), he would yell, "Breathe."

When I was driving back to work the next day (breaks/real resting are short-lived in the summer), I started thinking about my experience with Mike and how it parallels life with God. When I wasn't breathing, I wasn't sure I could keep going. I got light-headed and was forced to stop. I started questioning whether I could really do it .. whether I could really keep up (with such a beast) ... whether I could cut it. And I think life in ministry (or life with God) is no different. We want so badly to depend on ourselves .. to keep pushing .. to go until we pass out ... to reach the limit and THEN slow down. But the truth is, we can't really keep going unless we breathe. I learned awhile back that the Hebrew word Ruach (get ready, there are sound effects) means breath, soul, spirit of God. And to complete this marathon .. to run this race .. to live life with God ... we must keep breathing in the presence of the Holy Spirit, allowing Christ to fill us up. When I feel overwhelmed, stressed or tired .. unsure if I can really keep doing what I'm doing ... I'm reminded that the Spirit of God is life-giving and to breath it into my day is of utmost importance. I'm not sure there's any other way to survive.

And so, with some breathing and some real rest ... We will make it. You will make it. The power of the Holy Spirit has yet to fail us...

THANK YOU!

2011-08-10T09:39:00.003-05:00

a HUGE thank you to the Summer Staff of 2011We love you Team Touch, Team Winning, Indecisive Sassy Pants, Team Fit & The Sister Wives!
- love your Support Staff

The View From Here

2011-08-01T16:48:00.009-05:00

The last campers drove out of camp on Saturday morning. The summer staff have been cleaning up, closing down and putting away. Camp Cumberland Pines is a different place after 8 weeks of camp. There's lots of empty space - the parking lot is almost vacant, the pavilion has no 9-square game, the major group sites sit empty & the staff offices are quiet. And, the tool shed and the paint trailer get organized.

For all of you that came to Mountain T.O.P. this summer (and spring and fall and any other season) we thank you!!! We couldn't do this ministry without you.

How we measure success...

2011-07-20T11:43:00.003-05:00

By the privileged we have of worshiping together daily in our camps and weekly within the counties we serve.
By the stories of restoration we hear during sharing and around the dinner tables.
By realizing that different doesn't mean wrong, but shows the beautiful, all encompassing bounty of God's creation.
By a child asking if she can live at camp.
By the way churches, who have never met, take care of each other in extravagant ways.
By the examples of servants who daily struggle through heat, exhaustion, conflict, and unsettling circumstances.
By the way children now know that prayer is something you do every morning before you start your day's work and every evening after you've finished, no matter how good or bad you feel.
By the fact that tie-dying or catching fire flies in the field never gets old.
By dreaming what a "life changing experience" and "it's been a great week" can do in the valley below.
By our ability to accept feedback gracefully, and do something about it.
By offering a space for people to experience God, and then being able to step back and let it happen.
By grieving over death and tragedy with the people we serve, and then being able to answer them with hope.
By not having to say anything and still knowing we've said alot by our actions.

What the churches have to say ...

2011-07-17T16:08:00.000-05:00

Check out footage of a YSM Week captured by Christ Church Cathedral in Cincinnati!

Jesse's Day Camp Experience

2011-07-04T16:50:00.000-05:00

Jesse Lee Hargrave is from Winchester, IN and attended Day Camp during Week 3 at Camp Cumberland Pines. Here's her story...

Today I was thinking about all the good memories of Mountain TOP while looking through my friends pictures, and I couldn't help but miss all of them terribly. Especially all of the 6-11 year olds who stole my heart the first day. So i kept tagging myself andsaving picture to my computer and there were some that I wanted to put on my profile, but not enough to put together in a whole album. So for some reason I added a picture of me and Jalie on our last day together at day camp under my album inspiring picutures. But what is more inspiring than all of the youth I met at day camp and at Mountain TOP. We all had this light to us that glowed so bright that God HAD to of seen our hearts shining. During that week at mountain TOP, these kids gave me the idea of God's love. They eachloved me the second we made eye contact and ran up to me asking if we could play before knowing my name. Does God really need an introduction from us? Does he want us to walk up to Him and say," Hey God I'm Jesse and I wanted to know if you could come hang out with me and talk to me sometimes." He wants us to stop whatever we were doing, see Him, and run with open arms ready to build a strong relationship with Him. Another thing I learned was how much he loved us. A couple weeks before Mountain TOP I went to my own church camp where I sort of got the idea of how God loved me even though I am not perfect. But I could not view myself as a perfect creation. With each time I saw myself, I could not help but walk from the mirror thinking I was a mistake. But the truth is. God doesn't even have a glimpse of mistake in His mind. He sees a future in me. And He wants me to walk along side me the whole way. I thank Mountain TOP for all they are doing, but most of all, I want to thank Sarah, Jessie, Bryson, Jaden, Braden, Jalie, Whitney, Evan, Josh, Lucus, Kaitlynn, Elizabeth, and everyone else that was involved with Day Camp. You have truely changed my way of thinking. And you are always in my prayers.

Lots Love,

Jesse Lee Hargrave

Because I love to feel my spirit SOAR!

2011-06-21T11:30:00.006-05:00

Thanks to a partnership with The Adventure Guild of Chattanooga, the new High Ropes Course at Cumberland Pines is now fully operational!!! A retreat group from New Hope Baptist Church of Illinois had the honor of being the inaugural group to take on the new challenge elements up in the treetops, and did they ever soar! They conquered everything from the Giant's Ladder and the Trapeze Leap to the 300 foot zip line--see them in action!

Cookie Face

2011-06-20T12:18:00.000-05:00

On Sunday nights at YSM, the community plays Minute to Win it games! This challenge includes getting a cookie from your forehead to your mouth without using your hands! Check it out ...

Breaking News....

2011-06-09T11:04:00.000-05:00

The filming project for new promotional materials is underway!!!!!!!!!! Believe it ... the MTOP DVD is being updated!

We're ecstatic about this new project. The goal of these videos is to shed light on the needs of the families in the Cumberland Mountains ... to do right by them ... to spread the word of God and all He's doing on this mountain through volunteers, staff, families and community partners ... to illustrate all we CAN do (even in the midst of financial crisis, natural disaster and accessible, affordable, exotic mission trips to Jamaica) to alleviate poverty RIGHT HERE AT HOME IN OUR OWN BACKYARD!

Some of you may remember Nathan Schweinberg from 2007. He served as a Ministry Coordinator at Camp Cumberland Pines. Since then, Nathan finished undergrad at Florida State University and has been living in Nashville as a filmmaker/photographer for Hope Unlimited. When I contacted him a few months ago about helping with this project, he was thrilled. We've had several phone conversations and brainstorming meetings and now it's all really happening!

A little story as to how we encountered the funds ...

Back in March I attended a Global Missions Fair at Heritage UMC in Clearwater, FL. While I was there the missions committee had us fill out an application for donations. On that form, we could tell them about fundraising projects and immediate organization needs. Since we had just kicked off our Capital Campaign, I decided to aim big and throw out a request for money to fund one of the new camp cabins.

About two weeks after my visit, some of the youth from Heritage came for Spring Breakout. And then a few weeks after that I received two checks in the mail... One that matched the EXACT amount I was seeking for the film project! I spoke with Marsha, Heritage's missions coordinator, and she told me about a couple that had given $50,000 to be used in whatever way needed. She wasn't sure what to do with the money... but when she got back from MTOP, she sat down and started writing checks. God had given her a vision of how all the missionaries that attended the conference could have some of their financial needs met through that $50,000 donation.

So, call it happenstance or what you will, but I call it divine. God has provided and we're ready to see what happens! AMEN!

Nathan filming at Fish Camp on Sunday!

Baker Staff is on the MOVE

2011-05-28T09:16:00.007-05:00

Ronnie explaining the fluids to the new staff members
Everyone getting a closer look!!!
You never know what you'll find under the hood of a MTOP truck.
And they're on their way!

Tuesday & Wednesday of Training Week!

2011-05-26T08:31:00.000-05:00

Summer Staff Rocks!

2011-05-23T09:37:00.000-05:00

Excitement!

2011-05-20T17:41:00.002-05:00

Training has started!!!

2011-05-20T16:28:00.003-05:00

The start of MTOP summer staff training!

It's Almost Finished!

2011-04-29T15:44:00.007-05:00

The construction on our high ropes course is almost complete. There's a few more platforms to build and a few more ropes to hang and wires to stretch. The Adventure Guild has been working rain or shine to get this course completed and we're almost there. Enjoy these pictures of the progress.
Looking up from the entrance road - there's 4 elements here!
Looking up from the other side to the platform for the zip-line
Looking back from the end of the zip-line
The Trapeze Leap being constructed (if you look closely you can see the guy hanging in the tree on the left side of the picture)

Ordinary Work

2011-04-29T08:43:00.004-05:00

If you know anything about Mountain T.O.P., you know that we aren't unique. As a matter of fact, we are pretty ordinary. Our mission is borrowed. Our inspiration is borrowed. We are plain people of the Kingdom trying to live out its vision.

Here is a snippet of our history as quoted from the website:
"After serving together at the Hinton Rural Life Center in North Carolina during the summer of 1974, several youth from Blakemore United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tennessee wanted to take their experience into their own 'backyard.' After much prayer and planning, the Mountain T.O.P. dream was born. The backyard turned out to be the Cumberland Mountain counties east of Nashville. In the summer of 1975, the first Mountain T.O.P. camp was held at Beersheba Springs Methodist Assembly in Grundy County. Over 200 participants, representing 12 church families, were a part of this first camp."

Each person who passes through our gates hears the same message: the life-long call of Jesus to "fish for people"(Matt 4.18-20). We love to hear of former MTOP participants who go home and do the MTOP thing in their own "backyard". And countless groups have done just that.

The Starfish Project began as one of these ministries. It's an outreach of Pulaski FUMC (TN), a long-time participant in MTOP's programs. People like Maria Wong and Shane Woodard seek out needs in their church family and community. Every 3rd Saturday, a group of committed adults meets at the church, has a short devotional, and goes to work. Projects are paid for by group members or through another church outreach: Matthew 5 Thrift Store. The proceeds from the thrift store fund missional work, whether that is paying for building materials or an electric bill.

The name, Starfish Project, came from that well known, adapted story about saving starfish, one at a time. Appropriate, when considering how we are viewed by people who think our work is small and insignificant when staring into the face of extreme circumstances. But, oh, how amazing is our Father's love, that not only does he notice the injustices, but also he invites us to participate in making them right.

In a pool of sand and silt a starfish had thrust its arms up stiffly and was holding its body away from the stifling mud.
"It's still alive," I ventured.

"Yes," he said, and with a quick yet gentle movement he picked up the star and spun it over my head and far out into the sea. It sunk in a burst of spume, and the waters roared once more.

The Morning After

2011-04-28T09:03:00.001-05:00

The first of 50 days

2011-04-25T08:23:00.006-05:00

I am an associate member of Tracy City First United Methodist Church (TCFUMC). I've been attending there for most of the time we've lived in Coalmont. I love my church family; I'm always surprised at their constant understanding that during certain seasons of the year, I cannot attend regularly (i.e., every Sunday morning). No matter how long I've had to sabbath other places*, I'm always welcomed as if my absence has been notice. It's nice to be noticed.

*(One if the things I really appreciate about my job is that I get to sabbath regularly at "work". It's built into our ministry DNA. Sabbathing at work is also one of the challenges of my job. Our culture, even in the Church, overlooks the natural, God-given rhythm of work and rest.)

Churches in this area follow the pattern of most rural churches - they are made up of a group of core families who've been attending for generations. Most church affiliations have to do with location that denomination. For instance, I live on Sweeton Hill*, and the church down the road from my house is made up of families who have lived on this hill for generations. Pastors are usually bi-vocational and somehow related to a family in the congregation (who isn't?).

*(When you are from 'round here, you can just say, "I'm from Coalmont." You get really confused looks. People want to know out of which small, close-nit community you come. When I'm in Grundy County and asked where I live, I say "On Sweeton Hill." If you live in a place like Atlanta or Nashville, you know what I mean.)

TCFUMC is in a funny place. We are growing rapidly, which is not the same case of most of the churches in our location, much less our denomination. Average Sunday attendance is getting close to 200. The choir isn't allowed to sit in the congregation anymore because we'll take up seats that could be occupied by visitors or seekers. Last Wednesday there were over 70 children and youth attending evening activities. 70! Even the air conditioning units are having a hard time keeping up. We are in the process of addressing the situation while managing our growing pains.

During "normal" times, there is a constant hum of activity always at TCFUMC- prayer, teaching, feeding*, meeting, coaching, learning, singing, sharing. It comes in all different forms and for all different ages, hopefully accessible to anyone who desires to be a part of the Family.

*(We regularly feed the young people who come to the church - twice a week. Sunday breakfast and Wednesday dinner. It's the Gospel in french toast sticks...or, at least, full tummies so that maybe the Gospel is easier to hear.)

Easter services catapult that normal hum into an even different category. It's the notion that there is "something larger on the inside than there is on the outside", and that something is "bursting forth in glorious light". "There are glad songs of victory in the tents of the righteous: The right hand of the LORD does valiantly; the right hand of the LORD is exalted; the right hand of the LORD does valiantly.I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD."

Working with your Palms

2011-04-21T13:11:00.000-05:00

Last Thursday, Roger Brown (youth pastor at the FUMC in McMinnville, TN) and I had the privilege of speaking on WCPI 91.3. Bill Zeckmann (a state farm agent, church of christ attendee and volunteer radio manager) reached out to Roger to bring Mountain T.O.P. into the station.

Are blurry pictures better than no pictures?

I wasn't exactly sure how being on the radio would go over (first timer, here), but as soon as we started talking it was fun! (I shouldn't admit it, but I didn't even know what radio station it was until I got down there...I assumed it was one of the country stations ...whoops!) The radio station reminded me of a local NPR. We had a 25 minute dialogue that went by really fast. I did expect to talk about Mountain T.O.P. and all of our programs, but I didn't expect to get into some meaningful conversation about poverty in America and Jesus' call on our hearts to work for His kingdom.

One statement that has stuck with me came from Bill. He said, "As you know, the workers are few. How difficult does that make ministry?" I think Roger answered very well in saying that one person can make a difference. It can be discouraging when you need people and they can't commit, but I think it's how you choose to look at it. Maybe the difference is small or local, seems insignificant or doesn't immediately produce fruit .. sometimes the workers are few, sometimes they're abundant. Nonetheless, we are advancing the kingdom. One step at a time, one day at a time, one porch at a time, one conversation at a time.

Saturday, I traveled to Hampton, GA to speak at two churches Sunday morning. Michelle Rawdin, a former YSM camper, is the pastor of LoveJoy UMC and Mt. Carmel UMC. The two congregations work together and several members are already signed up for the AIM Summer Weekend! At LoveJoy, I spoke to 10-12 attendees, only a few of which are capable of coming to the mountain. One man signed up after the service and one woman gave me $50 with a note that read, "Please use this for a small child." (by the way... $50 = 2 scholarships for kids who can't afford to come to one of our children's programs.)

At the next service, I got to show our Home Depot submission and speak about the upcoming trip! Afterwards, we shared lunch together and discussed more details. By the end of that meeting, we had 2 more signed up! One thing that stuck with me from that church service was actually Michelle's children's lesson. She talked about the palms we brought to church that morning.. the branches, but also our hands! Her point was that we can serve Jesus everyday with the palms He's given us.

And as an added bonus, my mom got to meet me ...

For those of you who don't think you have much to offer towards home repair, she's proof that you can make it! Willing hearts... good knees... maybe strong backs? .. that's all we need.

Needless to say, it was a great week for the recruiting and public awareness department :)

High Ropes Course!!!

2011-04-15T15:14:00.006-05:00

Mountain T.O.P. is partnering with The Adventure Guild out of Chattanooga in building a HIGH ROPES COURSE at Camp Cumberland Pines. This partnership has been in the making for quite some time. Last summer the campers at Quest got to experience The Adventure Guild facilitators during the days of rock climbing and rappelling. The high ropes course is currently underway at Mountain T.O.P. and we couldn't be more thrilled.

Here are a few pictures to show the beginnings of building a high ropes course

.

1 Sunday - 3 churches

2011-04-13T12:08:00.009-05:00

This past Sunday Mountain T.O.P. was invited by Shelbyville First United Methodist Church to come be a part of their Missions Fair. I was also invited to speak about Mountain T.O.P. during the morning worship service. After some technical difficulties, the power point presentation was underway. Shelbyville FUMC has lots of friends of Mountain T.O.P. including John Carney and Andy & Edna Lee Borders. Andy Borders cooked a fabulous meal for the Missions Fair which consisted of pork loin, green beans, sweet potato casserole, fruit salad and the most amazing Earthquake Cake for dessert. I definitely should've taken a picture of the plate of food. The people of Shelbyville FUMC love and support Mountain T.O.P. in many ways and we thank you!!!

On Sunday, Ed was asked to speak at Germantown UMC. He was given the opportunity to speak at two different times to a good group of folks. Germantown UMC has been a longtime friend of the ministry. Thank you Germantown UMC for inviting Mountain T.O.P. into your space. Good conversation, good questions, good friends!

This past weekend, I had the privilege of visiting Christ UMC in Plano, Texas. Glen Thorton, a member of the church working on expanding the mission opportunities for the congregation, called in a few weeks ago about AIM. I just so happened to be visiting Fort Worth, so I asked if I could come speak to those interested in hearing more about Mountain T.O.P.

Glen set me up with a projector and meeting space and advertised throughout the sunday school classes. We had a great group of interested people, including the missions coordinator, Linda, youth director, Amanda, and several other church staff members. (Oh, and Linda brought us some dunkin’ donuts and coffee ... mmm!)

It turns out that one of the preachers, Rev. Stacey Piyakhun, attended Mountain T.O.P. as a youth!!! Mark got to hear Stacey preach and we both got to meet her after the service. She fondly remembers building an out house :) and told me that her grandparents noticed something different in her the week she got back from Mountain T.O.P.

I have always felt that part of my personal calling at Mountain T.O.P. is to hone in on the objective to actively encourage the Christian growth of the participants and staff who come to Mountain T.O.P. Stacey’s story reminded me of the HUGE part Mountain T.O.P. plays in the spiritual formation of youth and adults. Her words inspire me to persevere and serve with all my being as we continue seeking God’s spiritual vision for this summer.

All in a Day's Work

2011-04-11T16:02:00.007-05:00

This spring we've had to call on friends of the ministry to help us finish up some projects. This past Saturday was one such "call". In order to get the Friends porch tied into the existing Friends Cabin and to tin the roof we needed a large group of willing folks. With hammers and drills in hand, we took to the roof.

Thanks to Correy Jewell, Eric Saviano, Justin Campbell, Emily Chadwick, Steve Howell, Dave Howell, Melanie & Freddy Moore, DeWayne & Julie Duncan, Ronnie Scissom, Bo Myers, Bob Willems, Jay Koelbl , Kim VanGundy and Ed Simmons!

A little preview of the summer

2011-04-08T17:22:00.008-05:00

Last weekend, the 2011 directors* met at Cumberland Pines for their annual retreat. For support staffers, Directors Weekend is the unofficial start of staff training, the place where we begin assembling the team that will provide the leadership for the summer. It's an exciting time. It's a fulfilling time. It's always an energetic time.

[*One of us was there in spirit. I'm not going to tell you who. Her name starts with a "B" and rhymes with schmetzy.]

For me, the weekend provides a taste of what the summer holds and leaves me craving more. The 6 weeks between this retreat and the summer are long, tedious, and overwhelming for us in the support staff office*. So being able to turn my full attention to one of the major reasons why this ministry exists (to train Christian leaders) is refreshing.

[*We end up wearing half a dozen hats throughout the end of the spring. We still have groups in camp that are requiring our attention. Camp improvement projects are needing to be finished. Final plans for training summer staff are going on. And churches are needing support. If ever you want to come help us, now is the time!]

But the most refreshing part of the weekend is walking away with the feeling that God has placed in our midst the best possible team of people to pull off the work he has laid out for us to do. I find myself humbled to be present with these people who give not just time or talents, but who will give their whole beings to make sure MTOP happens*.

[*And when I say "MTOP happens", I mean that in the sense that we are all here for the same reason Jesus was: for the sake of the world, for those people who need to know his presence.]

I am in awe how God works through the ordinary and practical things to work everything out for the good for those of us he has called. And so, I cannot wait for the summer to arrive...

Did you know?

2011-04-05T10:23:00.002-05:00

Written in the Morton Memorial Memo by Pastor Von Unruh ...

"I recently clicked on the following internet link and discovered that Grundy County is basically the unhealthiest county in Tennessee. Actually, it’s ranked 94 out of 95 counties (http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/tennessee). I wasn’t surprised by what I read, but I believe it is important that we be aware of the situation that exists in the county in which many of us live. In case you’re curious, Marion County is ranked 83. Franklin County is ranked 11. Most of us at Morton Memorial do not suffer from the health factors listed in the study, which means that (apart from us) the county is even more unhealthy.

What factors detail the lack of good health in Grundy County? One out of every five persons in the county is illiterate. Two out of every five children lives in poverty. Barely one out of every four persons in the county ever attended (never mind graduated from) a college. Almost half of all children live in a single parent household. Thirty percent of adults are obese. Family income is so low that two out of every three children receive free lunches at school. Liquor stores are basically three times more common in Grundy County than elsewhere in Tennessee. And so it goes. I don’t even want to think what the statistical figures would be if Mountain T.O.P. had not been present in the county for the last thirty-five years."

We're from Chair-A-Bus-Co!

2011-04-04T10:16:00.000-05:00

SBO Week 5 has kicked off! We have 5 youth and 5 adults from Churubusco, IN (home of the legendary Oscar the turtle!). They are awesome! They arrived to beautiful weather last night. We played in the field, got oriented on camp and their projects, ate dinner and shared a devotional on being the salt of the earth! They also brought items for our Extending the Partnership campaign! And Jay and I got extra t-shirts from the group!

Doin' Work!

2011-04-02T17:24:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Keith McCutcheon, his daughter, Katie (a 16 year old owning a big ole nail gun!), Matt Harrison, Alex Sloan, Reed Bradford, Stephen Wright, and his friend, Ricky for all their hard work on the Friend's Porch roof today!

SBO Week #4!

2011-04-01T16:51:00.001-05:00

We had such an incredible week with some of the youth and adults from Heritage UMC in Clearwater, FL! They are a fun, energetic group dedicated to loving God and His people! This was everyone's first trip to the mountain! They were so appreciative of the staff and worked real hard in-camp and at Doris Bivens' home. This morning at breakfast, they unveiled a sign they made us! We sure hope these guys come back!

2011 AIM Staff!

2011-03-31T10:09:00.000-05:00

Betsy Galbraith - Director - Greenfield, IN

Amelia Millemon - Field Manager - Alton, IL

Rebecca Goltry - Sum+/Kal/Quest Manager - Wichita, KS

Dani Mitchell - Sum+/Kal/Quest Ministry Coordinator - Thompson Station, TN

SBO Week 3!

2011-03-29T10:17:00.000-05:00

SBO Week 3 was incredible!!! We had 17 from the K-State Wesley Foundation in Manhatten, KS, 3 from the UCA Wesley Foundation in Conway, AR and 51 from the H2O church (on Ohio State's campus) in Columbus, OH! Wednesday night, we took some of the college students to Cumberland Baptist! They loved the tight-knit church family and the upbeat singing! Big Don was delighted to see everyone. One of the Spring Breakers even joined the band on the bass guitar! The Spring Breakers graced the church with an old familiar hymn...

Thanks Murfreesboro District UMW!*

2011-03-28T12:20:00.002-05:00

[*This blog post could also be titled: "Reasons Why I Don't Mind Working On Saturdays"]

This past Saturday, Mountain T.O.P. was invited to speak at the Murfreesboro District UMW's A Day Set Apart at Morton Memorial UMC, Monteagle. I got the privileged of speaking since my mother is a member of the UMW at Morton; thought, I wouldn't turn down the offer to talk about ministry. Or to accept a love offering. Or to eat Marge's jello salad*!

[*If you were there, you know exactly what I'm talking about. When Mom invited me to speak, that was my next question: "Will we be having Marge's salad?".]

There were many different churches represented in the 75 ladies who attended the event. When I asked if anyone had heard of MTOP (though I knew a couple in the crowd who are current attendees), about half raised their hands*. I was beautiful how aspects of MTOP's mission fit so perfectly in the theme of the day: how to abide in the peace of Christ while engaged in work. I often tell folks that MTOP's niche is how we strive to hold the spiritual formation aspect of what we do as high as the physical work. Some days, it's so hard to remain in Christ's peace when the world swirls around us.

[*After talking to the group, I had conversations with people who's churches youth had attended, parents of former staff, and those who were interested in adopting MTOP as their local mission. It's hard not to miss all of the doors that are being opened...]

And then came time for the love offering, which was the other reason I was there. MTOP was chosen as the local mission to which the offering would be shared. An overwhelming $900 was given! Earlier during the service, I had shared how MTOP was started by a youth group and that no one should underestimate what a small group of people could do when they are on the same mission. That's exactly what the Murfressboro UMW did!

SBO Week #2!

2011-03-24T13:29:00.000-05:00

SBO is crazy!!! It's been a great (and busy) three weeks on the mountain! Last week (3/13-3/18) we had 3 different programs going on at camp!

1. 35 members participating in a Family Camp - Whites Chapel UMC - Southlake, TX

2. 15 from Teen and Family Services - Houston, TX

3. 5 from Messiah College - Grantham, PA & 9 from Murray State Wesley Foundation - Murray, KY

hot cognition

2011-03-24T10:00:00.000-05:00

I've discovered that around the same time each year, I get to dreaming about Kaleidoscope* workshop leaders. Out of all of our programs, Kaleidoscope seems to be the most challenging, I think, because it is the scariest sounding to someone that hasn't been before. It's especially so if this is a person's first mission trip experience.

special needs children + visual and performing arts + a new environment = "I'm not so sure about that."

[*Kaleidoscope's (KAL) mission is to offer Cumberland Mountain school age children (6-11 years old) with special needs an opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of visual and performing arts. Also, we offer an opportunity for adult volunteers to share their interests and talents in the arts with this special group of children.]

In theory, Kaleidoscope sounds beautiful and extravagantly fun for both the young people and adult leaders. Get down to the nuts and bolts, and a workshop can be overwhelming. To ask so much of our adult participants I feel like we need to make sure the mission and vision of KAL is solid, more than just a cool day care or a performance*. So I find myself around this time each year reading journals and research about arts based education and researching successful arts programs to compare us with them.

[*The week culminates with Friday Celebration, as the children display, share or perform their newly acquired skills in the visual and performing arts. This event highlights the hard work and learning that has occurred throughout their time here. It is a celebration for everyone, including parents and friends!]

I certainly ascribe to the theory that touching one aspect of a person's life will affect other aspects. In other words, teaching children about art at KAL is not just about teaching art.

The creative process may be one in which children gain command of the brush and learn the mysteries of art making. But sustained creativity also places cognitive demands on the learner—wrestling with technique while processing elements of design and intention, facing the public nature of classroom art-making, and making meaning out of critical and supportive comments from peers and teachers. These sorts of demands may be present in other learning experiences, but children may respond more actively and deeply in the art room than in the classroom. The response may add up to what Abelson calls ‘hot cognition’ (1963), which theorizes that all experiences have both a cognitive and affective component and that each of these, in turn, influence and colour the other (1).

There is overwhelming data that children who are in an art program exhibit these things:

dropout rates are reduced
students are more focused and engaged in the classroom
students believe they have control over their future
students are motivated to achieve
students learn to manage risk; are no longer at-risk
students develop skills highly valued in the 21st century workforce, such as creative and conceptual thinking and collaborating with others

Some folks might call these "factors". I think they are practical, measurable ways in which we help the marginalized move in from the margins. And in areas like Grundy County, these factors are much more that just a way out or a changed life; they are transformational across generational lines and family boundaries. All of this reminds me of a quote out of another book I like:

By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that's not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God's grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.

There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit! -Rom 5.1-5

Being Christ followers, the truth of the matter is that transformation happens through grace in any way God sees fit. And those of us who live transformed lives know that it's not an end to itself: a truly transformed life reaches out to offer abundant life (aren't the above "factors" part of the abundant life?) through Christ to all that we meet. That's why teaching art touches every, and I mean every, aspect of a child's life. And I keep thinking about how I believe, without a doubt, that cliche we always use around here: art changes lives.

p.s. Inspired? Interested? We NEED your help. Email me!

[1. Catterall, James S. and Peppler, Kylie A. (2007) 'Learning in the visual arts and the worldviews of young children', Cambridge Journal of Education, 37:4, 543 – 560]

We Won $500!

2011-03-11T16:50:00.000-06:00

In November, Gifts In Kind International announced the Framing Hope Impact Story Contest. Mountain T.O.P. submitted a five minute video portraying how our partnership with The Home Depot and Gifts In Kind International make a difference in our service area. Twenty organizations received a $500 gift card to The Home Depot and the top three videos won $5,000 cash-grants.

Check-out our submission! ... Framing Hope Video

It's Spring Break!

2011-03-10T14:46:00.000-06:00

It might be 37 degrees on the mountain, but it's still spring break!!! Sunday, 4 different college groups kicked off our spring breakout program! ...

14 from the ETSU Wesley Foundation - Knoxville, TN
9 from the College of William & Mary BCM - Williamsburg, VA
8 from the UNC Wesley Foundation - Chapel Hill, NC
23 from the FSU Catholic Student Union - Tallahassee, FL

We've had a BLAST with these students!!! They've shared group morning devotionals, worked in and out of camp during the day and worshipped together in the evening. Check-out a clip from a song the BCM group sang to the kitchen staff!:

Tuesday night we had a stations worship centered on light:

2011 YSM Staff!

2011-03-08T15:30:00.002-06:00

Directors

Kim Fall - Ellisville, MS

Mary-Kate Fisher - McMinnville, TN

Michael Reed - Sycamore, IL

Vincent Vasquez - Austin, TX

Program Managers

Olivia Evans - Thompson Station, TN

Rachel Head - Nashville, TN

Emily Mistrzak - DeRidder, LA

Chelsi Warren - Clarksville, TN

Field Managers

Nick Beegle - Collierville, TN

Hannah Brock - Jackson, GA

Justin Campbell - Collierville, TN

Janey Carman - Terrace Park, OH

Day Camp Manager

Emily Hurst - Nashville, TN

Day Camp Ministry Coordinators

Mackenzie Merry - Franklin, TN

Amber Whittle - Madison, TN

Service Project Ministry Coordinators

Ben Aastuen - Shoreview, MN

Ashley Compton - Sycamore, IL

Kristin Griswold - DeKalb, IL

Thomas Hall - Olive Branch, MS

Miriam Henry - Monroe, LA

Emily Lumpkin - Modoc, IN

Beth Moser - Lake Mary, FL

Matt Parker - Buford, GA

Kevin Parsley - Mt. Pleasant, TN

Melanie Pozuc - Kent, OH

Lexi Romine - Collierville, TN

Matt Sandmann - Cincinnati, OH

Molly Sandmann - Cincinnati, OH

Ginny Severns - Williamsburg, IA

Lizzy Shostak - Marietta, GA

Erin Smith - Marietta, GA

Carly Warner - Germantown, TN

Kendall Wolfe - Brownsburg, IN

Ben Wright - Mt. Pleasant, TN

Friends Weekend Progress - Final Day

2011-03-05T17:29:00.008-06:00

The last day of Friends Weekend brought lots of rain and sogginess. There was still lots of work being done around camp. Here's a few pictures!

New Cabin ended the day with windows installed!

Due to the rain, some folks moved to the warehouse to help organize the donations from The Home Depot.

The new solid wood floor in Peabody is coming right along.

The Friends Cabin porch HAS TRUSSES!!!!

Great job to all of the volunteers who gave of their time and skills to come to the mountain this week and weekend. Rain can't dampen the spirits of these folks.

Thanks everyone!

Friends Weekend Progress - Day 2

2011-03-04T17:14:00.003-06:00

New YSM Cabin in its beginnings

New YSM Cabin Today

Emily and Anita working on the New YSM Cabin

Light of the world

Steve Koelbl doing damage to some shingles

Mr. John working on the Peabody bathrooms

New Peabody Flooring

Gene and Chuck in front of the new Friends Porch yesterday

New Friends Porch today!

Decking on the new Friends Porch!

Friends Weekend Progress - Day 1

2011-03-03T10:23:00.008-06:00

Some of the Friends Weekends folks are here and work has started. Here's the progress so far.

Smitty in the new Peabody bathrooms!!!

The new sleeping rooms in Peabody are getting some drywall hung

Friends Cabin is getting a metal roof - but first the old shingles have to come off.

Friends Cabin is getting a new larger covered porch.

The new girls sleeping cabin is moving right along!

DeWayne and Ronnie missed the last blog - but they are equally as excited as the rest of us!

We're ready for FRIENDS!!!

2011-03-02T11:53:00.008-06:00

The staff is excited! WE'RE READY FOR FRIENDS!!!!

The materials are on site and ready!!!
The food has been delivered!
The projects are awaiting hard workers!!!
The block has been set and the ground is prepared!

WE'RE READY FOR FRIENDS!!!!

Who's the man?

2011-02-25T14:40:00.000-06:00

Gwynne Evans.

Gwynne, from Nashville, TN, first came as a camper to Mountain T.O.P. just last Fall for an AIM Weekend. Since then, he has offered to help us whenever he can. Today, he came to camp to repair a leak in the Lodge kitchen dishwater. Thankfully, we won't have to mop up the floor after we wash dishes anymore! He also fixed a leak in the Girls Bath house. Where would be without handy, willing, skillful men like Gwynne? Thanks!

Growing in Grace

2011-02-23T10:07:00.010-06:00

Every Sunday night Sewanee hosts an informal worship service called "Growing in Grace" in All Saint's Chapel. Growing in Grace is a "come as you are" service of the Word and Sacrament. The tradition of inviting guest speakers from around the country (as well as from the student body and faculty) offers a variety of voices proclaiming the significance of faith in their lives.

This past Sunday, I was invited to speak at Sewanee on behalf of Mountain T.O.P. They asked me to share Mountain T.O.P.'s story and my personal story as it relates to the gospel. And by no coincidence their theme for the semester is "light of the world" (also part of our theme for 2011! Matt 5:13-16).

It is always exciting to speak to a group of people about Mountain T.O.P. There were an even mix of students and community members, some of which already knew about Mountain T.O.P.'s work. The service, rooted in Episcopal tradition, had music, teaching, collective prayers and holy communion.

In preparing for the service, I really tried to listen for what God wanted me to say to that specific group of people. It's easy to share about Mountain T.O.P. and my own faith because the two are intertwined. They could not be separated, as is true for most of you reading. When I was thinking about how God got me here and how he's kept me here, it was enlightening. It's not something I sit down and do (look at my life in relation to my mtop experience which started back in 2000 as a camper). I reflect often, almost daily/weekly on what God is teaching me, but not in such a "big picture" way. The passage that came to mind was the transfiguration. In Matthew 17 we read,

"After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. Just then appeared before them Moses and Elijah. Peter said to Jesus, 'Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters - one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.' While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to him!'"

I thought about how this relates to my life on the mountain. For one, God brought me to the mountain with Him ... while on this mountain, I have seen Him in a new light.. I have seen Him in ways in which I never saw Him before.. also true for these three disciples and for those of you who God has brought to this mountain before. Secondly, even in times when it doesn't "feel" good, I can say to God, "Lord, it is good for me to be here!" And lastly, God has said to me, "This is my Son, whom I love ... LISTEN to him!"

From there, I honed in on two specific lessons I have learned through listening.

1. "Nothing is impossible with God." We've all found ourselves in darkness at some point in our lives. We've had feelings of anger, bitterness, hurt, loneliness, jealousy, greed, selfishness, hopelessness... But what God has taught me is that forgiveness and redemption are possible. In fact, they're imperative. What was once lost can be restored. Maybe not in the way you were hoping it would be, but in a way that is good for you and the other person. Likewise, God has taught me what it means to have a heavenly Father. We can never underestimate listening to God for our worth and value. He alone is trustworthy and He says to each of us, "You are enough."

(For those fighting the abyss... hold on. "After the suffering of your soul, you will see the light of life and be satisfied." Not you might, not maybe, but you will.)

2. Healthy Living. Being a young adult, having left college almost three years ago now, I've learned how to have better balance in my life. I struggled as a summer staffer when I tried to assimilate back into college life. I remember many conversations with my mother about living one life versus living a dualistic one. Somewhere in my head there was life with God and there was "other" life. The struggle then became how to live one life ... for God ... with God ... listening to God ... and make changes to my lifestyle accordingly. What God has done over the past three years is redefine. I had to stop listening to everything around me and sit down with the Bible and search for truth. Through doing that, I developed my own convictions on what it means to live life with God in a healthy way. I discovered I could be fully alive, fully awake and fully engaged in the here and now if I would just allow Him to direct the ways in which I live. Based on this relearning, I turned back to the sermon on the mount and those things Jesus teaches... not gossiping, not judging, giving to the needy ... So whatever struggle comes to mind for you, God says, "You're better than that."

Amen.

Looking Forward While Looking Back

2011-02-17T13:35:00.002-06:00

Matthew 18:19-20

“Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

Each year the Mountain TOP Board of Directors takes a day to continue the process of discerning God’s ongoing plan for this ministry. This year that happens on Saturday. Thirteen very committed and passionate leaders will gather at Cumberland Pines to review the past and seek guidance for the future. This will begin with Sally Chambers – the Board Chaplain, helping us gain a spiritual center and focus. It is so easy for the accountant in me to want to jump right to the business of the Board. Her role is to remind the minister in me that everything we do begins with God and everything is spiritual.

Once we gain our focus, the day will be spent reviewing financial information, approving the 2011 Budget, evaluating all aspects of the ministry & staff, discussing the 2011-13 Capital Campaign and planning for the future. Your prayers for these volunteers and their efforts are needed and appreciated.

Collective wisdom, especially wisdom that seeks God’s guidance and direction is far better than what we as individuals can provide. Jesus is right when we gather in His name and seek God’s will, then anything is possible. That is what we seek for this ministry.

Getcha Some Flooring!

2011-02-16T13:41:00.003-06:00

Last Friday, I went down to McMinnville Manufacturing to pick up 2,500 square feet of donated quality Red Oak hardwood flooring. This donation was made by friends of the ministry who I know would like to remain anonymous. The wood is beautiful and unfinished, and we plan to keep it that way. It has amazing character, so we will probably just protect it with a clear sealant. The picture on the left is actually only half of what we picked up! There will be enough flooring to run throughout Peabody and part of Friends Cabin when we get that far. This donation will help us update our cabins for the AIM program while still retaining that "camp" feel. No doubt, this donation will last for years and serve as a constant reminder of friends of the ministry who believe in this ministry and our mission. Come be a part of our AIM program this Summer or Fall and enjoy our updated facilities while meeting drastic needs of families in Grundy County!

Back on the Plateau Top

2011-02-09T14:18:00.011-06:00

As much as I love this ministry, the truth is that we really aren't on a mountain top. I just got back from my 4th annual ski trip with Jeff Grammer and Ryan Pace to see Betsy Rhulig in Colorado. The Cumberland Plateau doesn't really compare to viewing the world from a Rocky Mountain peak. Still, the common bond that brings us all together every year is our involvement in this ministry. Betsy, Jeff and Ryan are all former staffers and all played a big role in helping Ed transition the ministry in 2005. My gift was sharing the current vision of MTOP with them and explaining all the new programs, buildings, and ideas we have going on at camp. Even though it has been a while since they were on staff, they are still obviously on fire and excited for the mission we continue every day.
Each year, I am struck with wonderment at God's handiwork in that part of the country. We always get up at 5AM the morning we are going skiing to drive the 2.5 hours to the slopes. Watching the sun come up over the mountains as we drive past Denver is a sight without comparison. It's also pretty easy to enjoy the splendor of the King standing on top of a snow covered peak looking down 12,000 feet at a winter wonderland (even if it is -30 degrees!). Days like those make a person happy to be alive. I am rested, reverent, and so grateful for the life-long friends I have because of Mountain T.O.P.! Now. . .back to work!!