Dear Members and Friends of the Dalton First United Methodist Church -
 
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
 
17th century theologian, Francois Fenelon wrote, "Silence promotes the presence of God, prevents many harsh and proud words, and suppresses many dangers in the way of ridiculing or harshly judging our neighbors... If you are faithful in keeping silence when it is not necessary to speak, God will preserve you from evil when it is right for you to talk."

My Lord, I know that I make my living with the high calling of speaking about you.  But I also know, Lord, there are times I speak when I would be more faithful to be quiet.  There are times when I speak, that I speak my agenda, not yours Lord.  Lord, teach me the wisdom of knowing when to speak and when to be quiet.  Lord, teach me how to speak with your heart when I speak.  In Jesus' name.  Amen.

Kathy and I are excited about sharing with you this Sunday evening in an important part of our church's music ministry:  The Smiley Gregg Concert.  This Sunday night, 5:00pm here at Dalton First UMC.  Hope to see you there.

In addition, next Monday night starts our neighborhood meetings where Kathy and I will gather in different homes over the next two months - twenty-one of them so far - to share a little bit more about ourselves, listen to you share about yourselves and talk about our beloved Dalton First UMC.  If you have not received an invite, you will in the next few days.  If that doesn't happen, simply call the church office and we will get that corrected quickly!  We are looking forward to talking with you.  Special thanks are sent out to Deck Cheatham and all the hosts for their willingness to work on this important ministry.  Kathy and I want to know you.

Beginning this week, you will hear and receive several messages about our upcoming Consecration Sunday.  On Sunday, September 20, Dr. Malone Dodson will be our speaker.  I prayerfully and humbly ask you to open your hearts to this journey.  I know "Stewardship Stuff" can be done poorly and without respect for people.  We promise you that our Stewardship Ministry at Dalton First UMC operates by the highest biblical and ethical standards.  I always call stewardship the last spiritual journey people make - learning the joy of giving.  Come join us during this journey toward Consecration Sunday.

I'm still figuring things out.  The other day I just went from room to room in the church just looking in and checking things out.  What a wonderful building we have for ministry.  When the updates to Famber Hall and the Youth Lounge are completed, it will be even better.  The new carpet looks great, too.  And there are plumbing upgrades that you and I can't see but they do enhance our property and thereby our ability to do ministry.  The Trustees and others have done a great job - as well as those who have gone before us. 
 
God bless.
      
See you Sunday!