3-12-14

Greetings my friends and happy hump day!

I hope this message finds you in the middle of a marvelous week. It has been so delightful to receive a taste of spring lately. I feel certain, if we share alikeoutdoor interests, this winter has taken its toll on the spirit. Let’s just pray that we continue to experience some tolerable temps.

Though it seems the high today is going to be in the upper 50s, the forecast is showing the low in the 30s, maybe colder. I know there is a good chance of rain as well. If you are planning on joining the ride tonight, an extra layer under the rain shell will be a good choice of ensemble.

Despite last week’s cold temps and icy patches a great group discyplists came together to deliver meals and supplies to our friends and neighbors on the streets. I was unable to attend last week’s ride but from what I understand God was at work in midtown and downtown Memphis. Over 200 burritos were distributed in addition to loads of water, snacks, candy, socks, gloves, coats, blankets, and some other miscellaneous items. I want to thank the riders who showed up to weather the cold evening and deliver supplies. The compassion of this group is like a bright beacon in a dark room. Also, many thanks to the people who prepared food, gathered supplies, donated funds, and prayed for our organization. Without all of you, we would not be able to fulfill this weekly mission.

There are UBFM fundraisers to come in April. Tickets for our first silent auction will be on sale very soon. Just to give you a heads up, the silent auction will be held at Overton Park Clubhouse, it will be catered by Central BBQ, and BIG City Circus will provide live music! I am still gathering items for the auction. I am open to any donations and ideas for donations that can be auctioned. As of now, we have some running and cycling store gift cards as well as equipment and apparel. And, we have some amazing paintings from local artists. I think we will provide a fun and entertaining event. I hope you all can make it!

This week, in addition to burritos we will be distributing some amazing turkey sandwiches donated by the Jewish Community Center. Also, Green as a Whistle Housekeeping has donated some wonderful care packages that include anything from snacks to toiletries. Many thanks to these organizations for their donations!  

Tonight we will meet at our usual time and location: 7:30 PM, First United Methodist Church, 204 N Second St, Memphis, TN 38105. You are welcome to show up at 6:30 to help with burritos and preparation. We will depart around 8:00 and return in between 9:30 and 10:00. When you do arrive you will be greeted by a group of church members having dinner. Introduce yourself and thank them. I can’t say it enough: we have been so blessed to have this amazing and beautiful facility to work out of. Many thanks to Pastor Andy, William, and the rest of the congregation for allowing us to use the church to meet.

Thank you all for what you do to help and support this ministry. I commonly find myself amazed at the work you all do. Thank you for the continual donations, support, encouragement, physical help, and all of the many prayers you provide. I have been blessed to simply witness this group at work. I know there are good things happening here in Memphis. It is a huge bonus to see some of these things happen through a group of people I call my friends. God Bless you all!

Peace