Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries

A Wonderful Dinner

2012-01-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Ober Gatlinburg International Employees Soup Dinner

Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries and Gatlinburg First Baptist Church hosted 80 students from 7 countries on January 8 for a dinner. Soups and rice and beans made up the heart of the menu. Desserts came from our friends in Swainsboro, Georgia First Baptist Church who delivered and served them with the added sweetness of God’s love. The heart of the dinner, however, was in the fellowship created with the students and in the love of Jesus Christ that was shared with them.

These students have come to work at Ober Gatlinburg for the winter season. Their international employer, Wojtek, came from Atlanta to attend –and brought more students who are working in Cherokee, North Carolina. It was an honor to have them there. Wojtek spoke to all of us about the value of this experience. Bill also spoke about making our world better through life connections and gifted responsibility. We have hosted about 10 of these January dinners and all agree this was our best ever! The students loved it and participated through constant music --rising to sing for each other. The volunteers managed it professionally and had time to engage with the students. Our Ober Gatlinburg management friends who came recognized how strong it was. It was a God-blessed night.

Many of the students are active Christians. Many of the students, however, are not Christians. After the meal and program, we walked into the sanctuary and had a holy time of discussion about hearing God’s whisper of love and saying “yes” to that love with your life. We then talked about baptism and Church traditions. Many students sat and simply prayed. It was a lovely experience in a quiet and holy place and moment. We then gave them Bibles in Spanish and Portugese and Polish and English with guides as to how to read the Bible.

Pray with us as we continue in relationship and friendship with these students.

Gifts Given - Gifts Received

2011-12-27T11:29:00.000-08:00

Eleven volunteers helped to hand out gift bags to the Ober-Gatlinburg employees working on Christmas Eve. In return, the employees gave us a gift as they shared their appreciation...

She was so excited to return to work so that she could wear her new red scarf. "It is beautiful and it was a great surprise to receive it while working!"

A supervisor looked at me with depth and sincerity when we handed him his gift. He has worked at Ober-Gatlinburg for many years and has come to expect (...looking forward to...) our annual gift bag delivery. He expressed how treasured these gifts are to him and his team -beyond what is actually within the bag- it is because we recognize and love them.

An international student sent an email later that evening saying "I've learned a lot about how to help people because of the many things you do for us... Thank you again for teaching that a church is not made by buildings, it is made of the people and how God uses them for blessing."

While delivering the gifts to the international students several of them asked where they could find a church for Christmas day. Nine students joined us for worship at First Baptist Gatlinburg as we celebrated the Love which came into our world. On such a blessed day, even the van ride home was a Holy moment as we had conversations about what it means to follow Christ and how to have a relationship with God. The merriest of Christmases!

SMRM Family Photo

2011-11-23T09:37:00.001-08:00

It is that time of year! We are all sending and receiving greeting cards to friends and family. From our family to yours, we say "GREETINGS FROM GATLINBURG!" Cindy Black has done an excellent job again at orchestrating the Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministry (SMARM) Festival of Trees. The city of Gatlinburg is always pleased to showcase the many beautifully (and creatively) decorated trees. We are thankful for each of you and wish you were here to be in our photo. Enjoy your Thanksgiving and have a wonderful Christmas!

Dollywood Chapel featured on local news channel

2011-11-23T08:00:00.001-08:00

SMRM Family, A Quick Note

2011-11-22T07:29:00.001-08:00

SMRM family people are always leading and caring and serving. Here are three contacts from today:
Captain Rebecca Guerich celebrates 17 years of being in the US military today.
Ryan Kirk (Lizzie's husband) is deployed for a year in Kuwait.
Lt. Travis Holloway continues flight training in the US Marines.
I am sure there are others. These three are to be in our prayers now!

The Race Is On!

2011-11-16T05:48:00.000-08:00

At the annual Tennessee Baptist Convention, Bill Black of SMRM challenges Joe Ledford of Chilhowee Area Resort Ministries to a race. SMRM was faster than CHARM!

Kim Huff Margrave and Tracey Shepherd Gholson race Royal Ambassador cars in a SMRM alumni challenge race at the TN Baptist Convention. Kim won!

Above the frost line

2011-11-04T05:43:00.000-07:00

When the scriptures say that Jesus rose early in the morning to meet with God, I have to wonder if it was ever below freezing outside. If so, Jesus might have uttered a brief prayer and quick song from deep within where it was still warm. This weekend brought a stunning snowfall and frost in the higher elevations. A magnificent display of God's creative work blanketed the mountains as the deep fall colors of the lower regions contrasted with the pristine white frost above.

Several guests from LeConte Lodge joined us in an extraordinary sunrise worship at Myrtle Point this past Sunday. We found encouragement in Psalm 30 as we read "... weeping may last through the night but joy comes in the morning." For many of us, we were hurting, we were tired, we were cold. But to be sitting on the mountain point, high above the world bustling below, we experienced the joy of Lord- giving us reason to sing in thanks for His never ending goodness in our lives.

30 Years of SMRM and Outdoor Resorts

2011-09-25T17:30:00.001-07:00

The Biblical text for worship on Sunday, September 25, 2011 was Philippians 3:20: "But we are a colony of heaven..." The surprise was that Outdoor Resorts of Gatlinburg recognized Bill and Cindy for 30 years of ministry with SMRM and with ORG! Together, we celebrated being a "colony of heaven"!

Larry and Joann Swink left us speechless with a surprise appearance!

The meal together lasted an hour --always a good mark of a healthy church in fellowship with good food and joyful conversation!

But we are a colony of heaven: Living as if. In the now and the not yet. Intentionally different. In love with God, with each other, and for others.
Thanks be to God!

Labor Day Tradition

2011-09-05T11:47:00.001-07:00

How did your family spend Labor Day weekend? What would you have done as a family if one of your family members was deploying to Afghanistan next week? Would you have spent your last weekend together for a year on mission for Christ? Would you have honored a family tradition for the last six years and gone on a church mission trip?

Dan, Rebekah, Caitlin, and Emily Burnside came with the youth of Thomson, Georgia First Baptist Church on mission with SMRM for Labor Day weekend. This family has come for six years with the team. (The church has come for 29 years!) Dan and Rebekah are leaders in the church. Caitlin came from Shorter College to meet her family here. Emily is one of the committed youth of the church. They believe in the church's call to mission; in family service together; in SMRM's work of sharing Christ in the Smokies. They believe that this was the best way to spend quality time as a family together. They believe in Jesus Christ as Lord for their family and in sharing their faith.

The Burnside's bring to life the heart and hope of SMRM's core value that "The call to salvation is at one and the same time a call to mission. (Findley Edge)". Dan leaves this week for training and then for Afghanistan for a year. As he said, "I won't be here next year, but I will be back!"

What an honor to have the Burnside's as part of our SMRM family! What an honor to serve with such beautiful Christians! What a blessing for our country to have such a family!
And what a Lord for our lives that loves us so!

O Jesus, keep Dan safe this year and take care of his family. Amen.

Just for the rest of the story, the others from the Thomson group were way cool this year too! You should have seen them making and serving a 10 foot banana split and singing the love of Christ to the good people of Venture Out on Saturday night. Labor Day weekend and its ministry tradition is one of the best moments of the SMRM year!

The Church Growing Beautiful

2011-08-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Church Growing Beautiful

The 2011 Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries summer staff has completed their ministry in our midst. Their individual hearts and group work were strong this summer. Our summer closing celebration focused on responses to guided individual questions posed by Bill Black to each of them. The hope of these questions was to name and actualize the wonderful growth each student experienced this summer. God’s surprising action in the moment, however, was to bless all of us with the beauty of these statements and prayers. The evening became one of worship and giving honor to God as each person shared their summer growth.

This material does not seek to explain the ministries done nor the responses of those around us. It is our personal growth statement.

SMRM’s vision statement concludes with the phrase, “growing the Church through mission involvement.” The Church grows wonderfully beautiful in reading these responses! We (the 2011 summer staff and directors) prayerfully share them with you in the hope that you will go deep into these statements. We invite you to let them suggest your own responses to God’s call for self growth; for making the Church more beautiful.
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Shelby, How does a Christian live, work, and minister in a world that celebrates and encourages “being different?”

“Being different”.
Shelby Newman

This must refer to the Hard Rock Café as the epitome of “different.” Yet this is where I spent my summer. Me, the quiet, reserved conservative Baptist girl from a small Texas town! When I first heard about the job at Hard Rock, it was equally exciting and terrifying. Even Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries’ Director, Bill Black, did not want me in the restaurant –we hoped I would get a job in the “Rock Shop.” Yet God had other plans. He put me right in the thick of things –an expo worker as the mediator between the kitchen and the dining room. This vanilla girl was thrust into a world of flavors!

Yes, different is intimidating –at first. Assimilating into this world took a great measure of courage on my part. But once you are inside, you realize that people are people –no matter where you go. The world I entered could be lonely and harsh. God put me at an intersection of so many different people. Building relationships with so many people may seem hard, but God opened doors for me to know them all on some level. Giving a small hello or a word of encouragement formed a bridge between people. Remembering details and asking about their daily lives or taking advantage of breaks to seek them out led to relationships to enjoy.

I also found a world with little grace. Mistakes were ridiculed and patience was rare. Offering grace to people was the most widespread part of my ministry. Servers knew they could count on me to fix their mistakes gladly and without censure. I remember so many smiles and so many thank you’s! It brings such joy to my heart to have been an extension of God’s love.

As an English major in college, it embarrasses me to say that I cannot adequately find words to describe my experiences. This summer I learned to accept people and love them for who they are. Don’t stare at the girl with purple hair or the guy with tattoos and piercings. Don’t immediately shun the man who tells you he’s lived with his boyfriend for seven years. Don’t judge and frown as profanity, crude jokes, and innuendo fly around you. Don’t file for sexual harassment when your female co-workers slaps you in the rear. Do be Christ’s presence in these moments. Do open your heart to the individual who God loves and who seeks that love without even knowing so. Be a light. Find your own differences. For me, it was continuing to be Christian in attitude no matter how mad or frustrated I got. I knew I could not break that small thing which set me apart. Finally, give love and love will be returned to you. These things I learned. This ministry I did.

Many times this summer I loved my job. The people I met were so often kind to me. I loved going into work every day and seeing who would be there. These were not the intimidating international students from my orientation nor were they the “different” Americans from my first day. These were my friends.

Hard Rock Café’s motto is “Love all, serve all!” Not so different after all.

Shelby’s Prayer of Commitment

Lord,
Thank you for allowing this girl to thrive in a place that is different. Thank you for revealing the people behind and inside those differences. I pray that I will use this experience to seek out others who are different. Do not let my confidence fail.

Lord, You are our Creator and you formed us each uniquely. Thank you for the freedom and ability to express ourselves. Please do not allow me to let prejudice blind me again. I want to show your love and grace to all, no matter their lifestyle.

Lord, you are beautiful. May our differences reflect you!
Amen.

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Chelsi, How do you respond to the SMRM themes of intentional ministry, clarity of purpose, and initiative to accomplish purpose?

Initiative
Chelsi Stevens

At the beginning of the summer I responded to our main themes with panic and nervousness. These themes scared me and seemed to take me miles away from my comfort zone. I had no idea what to do with them and how to apply them to what I would be doing this summer. I worked mostly with children throughout most of the summer and trying to apply these ideas to children had me very worried.

At about week three, though, being intentional is what we started doing with the stories we told the children in day camps. They were not just little baby stories any more. They had depth –as much as you could use on a child’s level—and told more of why we were there.

Clarity of purpose came when talking to the parents of the children about our day camps and why we were here. It also came with canvassing for Sunday services (informing people about upcoming services and looking for ministry opportunities). We had real conversations with people and we were able to let them know why we were with Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries.

Initiative is the worst part of the whole thing. It requires taking a leap of faith and hoping you do not fall on your face. It is a challenge and is the thing that scares me the most. It requires patience and preparation –two things that I am not good at. Through the summer though, I learned to prepare and that patience come through prayer and being in the Word. It has been a process this whole summer that has grown and has helped me overall. I feel my response has come from dread to anticipation to see what will come next!

Chelsi’s Prayer of Commitment

Father God,
Thank you for this summer and the ways you have grown me. Thank you for the gifts that have been shown to me this summer. I pray that I never stop yearning to use my gifts to glorify you and that you only show me ways to glorify you more. Thank you for this summer and all that it has meant to me.
In Jesus’ name. Amen

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Scotti, What is the defining difference between running errands / helping people and ministering to their needs and hopes?

God’s Call
Scotti Simpson

I just recently discovered God’s hope for my life this summer. This summer I determined that God’s hope and my wants are different. I often search for what is coming in the future and God told me to focus on the present time. I spent the first half of the summer searching for ministry jobs in other states, but God had other plans. While I was searching for these jobs, I had an uneasy feeling. God was telling me my place of service was at home.

Ministry to others meant being home in their lives; being present for them; sharing Christ Incarnate –or Christ’s presence to them in that moment. I had to be here for them –not looking elsewhere all the time. I had to use the errand moment as a God opportunity to be real for them.
But I had to be real to myself first.

I fully believe that God uses people to change minds. While working with Bill one day, he began to talk to me about the jobs I had been searching. He advised me to finish school at Jacksonville State University and serve at home. God revealed his calling to me in that conversation. Following God’s calling to me means being flexible and ready to serve in whatever way he may call us. It means being where God wants me to be and not where I want to be. And then I can be the minister; then I can care for those around me.

Scotti’s Prayer of Commitment
Father God,
I thank you and praise you for revealing your call to me. Thank you for allowing to see past my wants and see your calling for my life. For your calling is far greater than my wants. Lord, prepare me to fulfill your calling. Let my heart be open to your calling, my mind eager to serve, and my body able all the days of my life.
In your name I pray,
Amen

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Landon, what has God taught you about focus and discipline in your personal spiritual journey this summer? How does that apply to sharing Christ with others?

Focus
Landon Headrick

God taught me that when you focus on others and help others, he will bless you and your spiritual life. God taught me to be disciplined on when we need to do our devotional sheet (Bill’s note: One of Landon’s ministry assignments was to prepare with one other partner a Sunday worship devotional sheet for the employees of Ober Gatlinburg who had to work on Sundays.) When we focus on that God will bring it all together for the good. The sheet brought a lot of discussion and sometimes not so much, but it was very God directing. It was cool to be able to do something like this. Being more disciplined has made me feel better about sharing my faith with others.

Landon’s Prayer of Commitment

Father,
Thank you for teaching me to be more focused on you and what you want me to do. Also thank you for making me more disciplined in my walk and in sharing my faith in you.
Amen

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Shannon, What did you learn about revealing God’s presence to others?

God’s Revealing
Shannon Johnson

Ironically, I learned this summer that I cannot reveal God’s presence to others. God does this all the time and to everyone who seeks him. I can only share God’s presence that I see and welcome others to seek and discover for themselves. Planning, rehearsing, and imainging will never suffice to reveal the presence of God. In fact, God shows himself in the most unexpected moments when I am not trying. God’s presence is both within a well-developed discussion on spirituality and religion as it is in an act of love and kindness. Revealing the presence of God may even me inviting international college student workers to Bible study and visiting with them consistently.

I am not aware of many was that God has been revealed this summer –but I have learned to trust that is all in God’s hands. He will show people what they need to see. All I can do is to share the love and grace I have been given by God and trust that God will take care of the rest. All that is required to reveal the presence of God is an open heart seeking God, willingness to serve him, and honesty to give him the glory.

Shannon’s Prayer of Commitment

Lord,
You are in control. Thank you for revealing yourself to me so that I may praise your name to others. Continue to reveal your presence to me, to the people that I met this summer, and to the world.
Amen

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Amber, how do you speak God’s grace into someone’s life?

Speaking God’s Grace
Amber Peek

Speaking God’s grace into someone’s life is something I have taken to heart this summer. Many time, I have been asked to speak into someone’s life and that has enabled me to develop it into a habit. As the summer continued, I became more self-conscious about this action and prayed and pondered over the words I would say.

When I was booth sitting for my dear friend C___ at the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, I sold something that cost $75.00 for $19.99 by accident. I felt really bad because she was having a rough week and I tried to pay her back. She did not accept anything and simply forgave me. That Sunday, I was able to speak God’s grace into her life! I was able to express to her how thankful I was and that I learned a lesson of “simple” forgiveness. I got to share a wonderful, holy moment with her.

Speaking God’s grace into someone’s life makes an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to come in and make it special. When speaking from the heart, speaking God’s grace is one of the greatest ministry tools I can use.

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John, Where is there boldness in your Christian life? How has this summer pointed you in the direction of boldness? Where does responsibility fit into boldness?

Boldness
John Baker

Boldness in one’s Christian life can be mistaken many times as arrogance or pride developing within oneself. This is a statement I have believed for a long time as the era of “holier than thou” Christians has been emerging. I have always been the person who is afraid to question someone’s judgment and to step on their toes, but I now realize that this is sometimes needed in the Christian walk. Not everyone’s judgment is always correct and when put in a situation of conversation with an international friend, a boldness is necessary to speak up and make the conversation holy. Many people abuse their holiness but this is where responsibility ties in. One’s approach to boldness does not need to outweigh the given situation but rather should be used to bring people to an agreement. A boldness that contains Christ-like character and is filled with gentleness and self-control is responsible boldness. This is something Christians need to understand and then learn to manage.

John Baker’s Prayer of Commitment

God,
Thank you for teaching me the importance of boldness in this life. Help me to control it and use it as a Christ-like example. Please keep my selfish motives out of the way and use it to glorify you and not myself! Amen!

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Matt, How is ministry relevant to the secular setting of work? Discuss accuracy of heart and hope in Christian life as it encounters the real world.

Ministry in the Real World
Matt Chambers

Ministry should be in every aspect of our lives –job included. Too many times people find themselves stuck in a cycle that revolves around their work. Work is a major aspect of one’s life and if ministry is relevant to one’s life, the biggest part of higher life should revolve around that ministry. Ministry is vital to our life so that we may grow in Christ. If we are not doing what we are called to do, how can we expect to grow in Christ? Ministry is not just important to help those around you, but also to help yourself become closer to God!

In the “real” world, many people consider what we do to be a fool’s errand. Many see that the world is too evil and what Christians believe is not “fit” for this world and it’s morals. At a first glance, this is true. However, as Christians we are called to trust that God is helping us. When we place that trust in God, we become filled full with passion and hope for this world. When we witness God’s providing nature, there cannot be too much heart or hope in our Christian life. We see God for who he is and that he truly does provide. Jehovah Jirah.

Matt’s Prayer of Commitment

Dear Lord,
Thank you for allowing me to understand your purpose and will while serving you. I ask that I will continue to grow and make every part of my life into a ministry. I praise your name in all I do and don’t ever let me stop.
To you be the glory always,
Amen

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Cari, How does a Christian life based on certainty and control interact with a world filled with choices and freedom? What makes ministry authentic in that moment of interaction?

Certainty and Authenticity
Cari Jennings

The greater portion of my life has been based around a search for certainty and striving for control of people and circumstances. For years I simply called this “faith,” “prudence,” and “self control”. I have since realized that all this time, as I began to clamp harder and harder on the reins, that my heart became hard, cold, self-righteous, and fearful.

While on this mission this summer, I have come to begin to understand the ideas that within this frantic struggle for control, I was missing out on the peace and freedom imparted by grace. I was so afraid of trusting that God would guide me if I let go because I had spent so much time tyring to work hard enough and be “good enough” to earn his love and my salvation. I felt that God had burdened me with the responsibility to make sure that I was pious enough to not sin and to keep myself on the right track.

I have since come to understand that one must seek a balance between a life of control and a more laisses-fairre approach. Self control is good; self-righteousness is not. It is good to let go, it is also good to be conscientious. The biggest conclusion I have come to is that my need to control things cannot seep over into others’ lives. I cannot even truly control myself, so I must not try to control other people. Love is not telling people what to do simply because you say so. Love is actively ministering to people through whatever means necessary, regardless of whether they are willing to “obey” me.

Ministry occurs within this interaction whenever the Spirit helps me to let go of the reins, love others simple for why they are, and place them and their needs/wants above my own.

Cari’s Prayer of Commitment
Lord,
May I consider others better than myself. Let me simply be a conduit through which your love, mercy, and compassion can flow. Be my guide. Let me let go and fall freely, only to be caught by your grace.
Amen.

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Jonathan, How do the SMRM character words of Energy / Creativity / Risk fit into ministry?

Character of Ministry
Jonathan Mayo

I can see a clear connection between the words “Energy, Creativity, and Risk” and how they fit into ministry as well as my Christian walk. First off, we as God’s children, are not meant to live in nice, neat, perfectly formed bubbles of safety and comfort, but to get our hands and feet dirty, so that our lifestyle’s may reflect the joy that is n our hearts from knowing Christ. Risk does not mean putting ourselves in blatently dangerous situations, but to hear God’s voice echo in our hearts and to obey those words. God is watching over us, therefore we should continue to live our lives for him no matter what the risks may be. This summer, I have grown tremendously from praying and examining God’s will for me. Many times I thought his path was too difficult, too risky, but I followed it and in the end, I gained more of his knowledge and wisdom.

Creativity ties into risk in many ways. Being in love with music, I have often tried to incorporate different worship styles into many different ministry opportunities that are present to me. If we stay in the same comfortable patterns of our daily Christian walk, how are we going to be able to grow in new and exciting ways and aspects? Creativity speaks to people; it reaches out to them.

Lastly comes energy, the aspect that fuels creativity as well as our joy of knowing God and following his ways. As Christians, we are not meant to dwell in sloth but to use the strength and energy God gives us day by day to complete our tasks and to shine our lights brilliantly for his glory. This aspect affects me personally because many times my laid back, easy going attitude gets the best of me and I do not obtain the energy that has been given to me. This , as well as creativity and risk, will always be words that resound in my mind as I continue my walk with God.

Jonathan’s Prayer of Commitment

Lord, Father,
May we continue to praise you and lift your name above all names. Give us the strength to take risks and live our lives outside of our normal comfort zones. Let us hold nothing back for you, but let our bodies be a living sacrifice for your omnipotent way. May we continue to serve you with every ounce of energy that you have placed inside our bodies and may we thank you for the strength you give us each new blessed day of our lives.
In your Son’s holy name we pray,
Amen

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Jillian, What does the concept of “servant leader” mean to you? How is this concept
applicable to ministry?

Servant Leader
Jillian Moore

I don’t think that the vastness of the concept of servant leadership can completely be explained and grasped by a 20-year-old’s mind or a 150-year-old’s for that matter. Servant leadership is not only the concept of taking leadership roles without incentive and personal gain, but looking at the leadership as a way to give wholly instead of looking at it as a way to rule over. As a servant leader, the needs of others are held in higher acclaim than your own. By being a “leader”, you are to work at it as effectively as possible. How does it apply to ministry? How does it not apply to ministry, really? It a sministry heart not one that holds the will of the kingdom above their own? This is heavily shown by putting the well-being (including spiritual well-being) of others as a priority. That is ministry! It is a beautiful concept with the love of God. It requires not only of you and your heart, but of God and God’s heart.

Jillian’s Prayer of Commitment
Lord,
The opportunities you have had bloom in front of me this summer have been numberless and amazing. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a vessel for you Lord in this area. I praise you for the relationships and friendships, the opportunities to preach your word, the moments of silence in awe of your beauty in nature, and for the pure love that has been given and received this summer. May your work continue to shine here long after I leave.
To you always be the glory,
Amen

Just When I Needed It

2011-07-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

Matt Chambers, SMRM Staff 2011

You know those days where you are completely awestruck by our amazing God? Well, today was one of those days for me. It started off as a normal Sunday morning arriving at work early to pass out a worship sheet with scripture and words of encouragement as well as free donuts for my co-workers. I was sleepy as always- going into my fourth straight 12-hour workday. While handing out the worship sheet I was approached by a co-worker who asked me to give him a Scripture verse he could memorize. I was surprised! I had not been asked this before. I was used to the same routine where they come, take the donut and the sheet, say “thanks”, and move on in their routines.

I was clueless. I had no idea what verse to share with him so I asked him what kind of verse he would like (while praying silently to God to help me with this). My friend told me he just wanted something to help him get through the day. Immediately strength came to my mind so I thought of 2 Chronicles 16:9 which says; “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” I wrote the verse and when I handed it to him he did a fist pump. That was really cool to me! However, what is even more astounding is what happened during my lunch break. While I was eating he came up to me and recited (from memory) the verse I had given him. I was overjoyed to see how committed and excited he was about a Bible verse! We continue to visit so that we can encourage each other to memorize more of the Good News!

This experience has taught me two things. First, scripture memorization is so important. I was at work and did not have my Bible, nor did I have cell phone reception, I couldn’t even pull up an online Bible. I panicked at first and prayed to God, which brings me to my second learning experience. God provided me with this verse when I needed it most and that was proof to me that the eyes of the Lord truly do range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. HE REIGNS!

God Brings The World To Us --With Visitors And With Seasonal Employees

2011-07-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start your day with a series of emails:

Hello, Bill
I'm C____, from China, working for Kodak. I helped you present your gifts at the hall in Millcreek. I was so lucky to get one. Thank God that eight of our Chinese live in Millcreek now. By the way, could you give me a Bible? Because I have been taking part in the church activities you told us about in Millcreek and I'm going to study Bible.

Bill’s response:

Of course we can bring you a Bible! Where in Millcreek are you? And I am honored to hear from you! I can bring it to your house today.

Cherry’s answer:

I got the Bibles now. Thank you so much for them. We share them. I'm going to study Bible seriously and eagerly. Thanks again. You are welcomed to visit our home.

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God’s Word is powerful in its ability to love, to convict, to guide, and to bring hope. Cherry is part of a Chinese group living in Pigeon Forge for the summer with whom we are privileged to share Christ. Her desire for God’s word is strong and we are hope-filled for her and her friends.

Our other Bible study group in Millcreek consists of Mongolians and French students! God has brought the world to us. We are honored to share his Word!

The Beauty Of The Mountains And The Call Of Ministry

2011-06-03T06:18:00.000-07:00

A Moment Of Summer Ministry Orientation From The Top Of Clingman's Dome
Shelby Newman, 2011 Staff Member

The 2011 Smoky Mountains Resort Ministries summer staff recently had the opportunity to view their mission field from two very different perspectives – high on top of a mountain and down in the city on the Gatlinburg Parkway, among the hustle and bustle of the crowds. We hiked 2 miles to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingman’s Dome. For some our twilight hike was challenging; others found it easy. Before reaching the tower at the top, we stopped at an overlook in the trail. Suddenly we were there, fully at home in our surroundings. The problems, joys, and relationships of our homes faded at that moment into the beauty of God’s creation. We gazed out over the slowly sinking sun of the horizon into the fog of the Smokies and pondered God’s power, His beauty, and His love as we sang praises to Him and meditated on His word. In this moment, God reminded us of our mission and purpose for the summer – to take the message of peace, joy, and salvation found on top of the mountain down into the fast, loud, and bright cities full of suffering and lost people. What a wonderful vision for the summer! As we go through our summer orientation, discovering our gifts and strengths, and confronting our weaknesses, this mission remains our heart and our focus. Isaiah 52:7 speaks of beautiful feet on the mountains which bring good news, proclaim peace, bring good tidings, proclaim salvation, and pronounce God’s sovereignty to the valleys below. As the staff begins to build relationships and participate in ministry this summer, we hope to have beautiful feet – beautiful, calloused and sore, from fervently bringing good news, good tidings, peace, and salvation to all we meet.

The "YES" of Missions

2011-05-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Leaving at 6:00AM last Thursday morning, Mobberly Baptist Church of Longview Texas began to answer "yes" to the call of missions. When they arrived at our dorm just after 11:00PM, exhausted and road weary, they continued to answer "'yes'... we will be up at 8:000AM." A team of 15 men and women (including a former SMRM staffer!) came to wash and paint the exterior of our dorm.

Despite the rain cloud that loomed overhead Friday morning, the team said "yes...it is time to begin."
Yes... I can do that job
Yes... we are almost finished... what can we do next?
Yes... we can provide gifts to place in the welcome bags for international students
Yes... we can build shelves in the storage room
Yes... we can replace the boards on the seat of your porch benches
Yes... we can rebuild your picnic tables
Yes... we can replace the carpet on the front porch
Yes... we will surprise Katy and Joey with a baby shower
Yes... we will share our extra food with, listen to, and pray with the neighbors

The task of completing the pressure washing and painting of the dorm seemed too large to complete in 2 and a half days. Yes, we had our doubts. But the even bigger YES was the blessing of God's presence as he enable the team to accomplish not just this task but so much more! This team understands missions as more than doing a project; it is about relationships- living out God's love through words and actions.

Yes... the dorm looks fantastic!
Yes... the summer staff has begun to arrive!
Yes... to God alone we give the glory!

Easter Campground Worship Services

2011-04-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

As beautiful as the Easter Sunrise Service at Ober Gatlinburg was, so too were the campground worship services. I (Bill) led three services at Twin Creek RV Resort, Venture Out, and Outdoor Resorts of Gatlinburg. The first service brought two couples to the office porch. Their spirit and faith made for a wonderful time of sharing. The second service celebrated the start of a new season at Venture Out with a gathering of friends and the decorating of a cross with flowers of love and joy. The ORG service brought the beauty of home and of the Church in this place being made real once again. As I looked at the rows of this congregation, I was blessed by my friends. One such row held three couples: One couple I had the honor of hearing their professions of faith on an Easter Sunday years ago in that very room! Now they are active and mature Christians. Another couple I had the privilege of baptising in the river in Greenbrier! The third couple has been part of our journey with hospital visits and prayers for family. To worship with such Christians in all three campgrounds is the heart of God blessing SMRM and me.

Easter Sunrise Worship

2011-04-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

Ober Gatlinburg hosted the Gatlinburg Ministerial Association's Easter Sunrise Service at 6:00 a.m. on Easter Sunday. Employees of Ober Gatlinburg worked through the night and all morning to host the event. Ministers from six different churches led in the worship. Bill Black and SMRM provided the planning and the coordination between the groups. 850 people came to the top of the mountain to celebrate the resurrection of Christ in worship!

And then God took over!

And we celebrated as the Church and were blessed with the presence of the Risen Lord and with the beauty of God's sunrise!

In My Dreams

2011-02-26T19:43:00.000-08:00

"I only dreamed that I would play futebol against an American team... and on an American field!"

It could not have been more perfect: the weather slightly cold, the field rain-soaked from the night before, and two teams ready to take on an opponent who they only dreamed they might face on the soccer field. It was not about the points scored, nor was it about proving who is the best... it was about bringing the world together to share a passion.

Ober-Gatlinburg winter students from Argentina and Brazil played against a local team of American high school students. After the game we met center field to exchange a little gift with each player as a token to remember this event. But more than receiving an American flag or a ball signed by 15 Argentinian and Brazilian athletes was the gift of God's presence which brought the world together, if just for a brief moment, in joy, love, and acceptance.

Katy and I were thrilled to have all 23 Ober-Gatlinburg students who played or watched the game over to our house for pizza and Guarana (Brazilian soft-drink). Scotti Simpson and his girlfriend, Amber, were a vital part of facilitating this event. Scotti is a SMRM summer staff alumni (2010) and has continued to travel back and forth from Alabama during the winter to help us share God's love with the international students of Ober-Gatlinburg. It is exciting to watch God continue work in and through SMRM.

Winter Mission at Ober Gatlinburg

2011-01-12T22:44:00.001-08:00

On a recent Sunday morning at 7:00 as we gave out our donuts and worship sheets to employees of Ober Gatlinburg, one American lift attendant asked for prayer. We talked and then prayed together with him asking Christ into his life for forgiveness and salvation. We meet weekly now to pray and talk together. Our mission is evangelism.

As much as we like snow it can be painful. One of our friends totaled her car on a snow covered road as she drove to work. We responded to calm her fears, to tell her parents in Moldova, to help her find new housing where she can walk to work, and to pray to God ---“breathe in God’s love, breathe out your fears”. Our mission is ministry.

One of our summer missionaries from 2010 returned to be part of our winter mission work over the holidays. His comment was that “I felt like I had come home. This is the most important thing I do in my life.” Our mission is growing Christians on mission.

At a recent dinner for 85 international students who are working at Ober Gatlinburg, we gave away Bibles in 5 different languages. As one girl took hers, she asked, “when do we have to give this back to you?” My reply was that it was hers forever. She said, “I have never had my own Bible.” We are starting a Bible study for these international employees using their new Bibles. God brings the world to us and our work continues!

Ober-Gatlinburg Host Program

2011-01-04T17:27:00.001-08:00

Christmas Prayer

2010-12-02T19:54:00.000-08:00

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Come with open ears, open minds, and open hearts. Come to receive the blessings God has in store for us this Christmas season.

Pray:

God of hope and encouragement,

I come in the midst of this season of busyness and preparations:

to find a time and space to slow down, to reflect on what my true preparations should be.

I need to prepare my heart to receive the gifts of love and hope.

I need to prepare my mind to focus on your promise that a messiah will come and nothing will be the same.

I need to prepare my spirit: to praise God for prophecy, promises, and preparation;

to find hope and encouragement;

to find peace and joy.

Amen.

Professional Entertainment- Personal Experience

2010-12-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

We do not have to orchestrate moments to pontificate about the "commercialization of Christmas;" instead God beckons us to come to the party. Even in the hustle and bustle of this season we still find God's presence around us. Have you personally discovered the joy of this season? Can you sing with a sincere heart "... joy to the world, the Lord is come!"? Relax, join the celebration!

(Below is an article written for Dollywood Employee's by Chaplain Joey Buck)

At Dollywood we celebrate the sights and sounds of Christmas for two months! This transformation has astonished me. With this being my first year serving as Chaplain for Dollywood I was not sure exactly what to expect. But when our guests enter through the turnstiles each of you definitely help bring to life a winter wonderland- no matter the temperature outside! Like the old carol sings “In the air there's a feeling of Christmas. Children laughing, people passing, meeting smile after smile.” A festive and breathtaking time of year, no doubt.

You sweep the grounds, serve a hot chocolate, entertain with your singing, greet guests with a cheery grin… the days are short, the nights are long… it is cold, your feet hurt, and you are worn out. In the timeless tale, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, the White Witch has laid a terrible spell on Narnia; it is always winter and never Christmas. A feeling all too common to many of us these days.

But the good news is Christmas is coming! These next few weeks (beginning the 4^th Sunday prior to Christmas Day) are traditionally recognized as the period of Advent. The word “advent” simply means “coming”, and the Christmas season is a vivid reminder that not only has Christ come as a little child, but Christ will come again to fulfill the promises of God.

Prophecy, promises, and preparation- all are part of the Advent tradition. They serve as reminders in this hectic season that there is more to prophecy than guessing what is in the package; more to promises than what Santa Clause will bring; more to preparation than cleaning house and putting on a spread for a holiday party. We are called back to the longing, not for a certain present, but for a God who brings about a beloved community of harmony and peace.

Amid your responsibilities as a “professional” on Park, take a moment to prepare your heart and mind to receive God’s gifts of love and hope. This Christmas season, we celebrate Light coming into the world. We celebrate God sending his Son Jesus to show us what God looks like. Make this season a personal experience, look in the middle of the celebrations and find God’s presence.

Journey to Mt. LeConte

2010-11-30T06:53:00.000-08:00

For three years Emily has journeyed to the top of Mt. LeConte each weekend to share in the lives of those who work and visit the lodge. Although she did not always have someone to hike with her, she reflects on the experience and says she was never hiking alone. Click the picture below to watch the sunrise and listen in her own words as she leads worship atop Myrtle Point.

Season of Praise. Season of Thanksgiving.

2010-11-23T19:08:00.000-08:00

Psalm 150 beckons us to offer God praise, with all that we are and all that we have, for His presence and activity in our life. On Sunday evening, November 21, at Dollywood's Robert F. Thomas Memorial Chapel, Chaplain Joey Buck (and his wife Katy and their son), led an expression of praise with the park guests who attended the weekly Sunday worship service.

Praise the Lord... Praise Him with tambourine and dancing... with resounding cymbals... Let everything that has breath praise the Lord... Praise the Lord!

A life lived without praised is no life at all.

Things I learned about Joey / Things I learned about Bill

2010-10-26T16:43:00.001-07:00

Bill Black and Joey Buck recently presented the 2010 Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries annual report to the Sevier County Baptist Association. You can find the printed version of that report on our home page. Our verbal report focused on the things we have learned about each other through working together for a year. Bill spoke of things learned about Joey. Joey spoke of things he learned about SMRM --and Bill.

Bill about Joey:

Consistent: In our selection process interviews, one of the things that impressed all of us was how carefully Joey and Katy spoke of a faith in God that is lived out in family and decisions
--and a desire to share that faith in total lifestyle.

Willing: Joey does not say "no" very lightly. He also accepts the unexpected of ministry with a joyful commitment to fulfill the task. His very first day here, before his clothes and funiture arrived, he willingly went to UT hospital to be with an injured Dollywood employee and her family.

Compassionate: He sees people and enters into their feelings. This compassionate approach grants him a hungry heart to share Christ with others and a style of acceptance that opens many hearts

God-sensitive: He is led by the Holy Spirit. When he reports events and conversations he uses the phrase "Oh Bill, God was with us and ...".

Mechanically blessed: A bonus for us! He has a wonderful ability to maintain or repair just about anything. As he says, "if somebody put it together, I can take it apart and fix it!"

Good to work with: He as adapted to me and to my style without losing his identity, his ministry, his mission. And even better, we are very different.

Fast learner who is dependable to finish all his assignments. We are both excited about finishing our first year --and a whole cycle of SMRM-- so that we can begin to enjoy the added value of understanding.

Says "yes" to call. Joey and Katy have said "yes" to God's call for their lives. This leads to a passion for ministry; it leads to creativity outside the walls of the traditional church style; it leads to commitment to go the distance in relationships; it leads to the celebration of one of Joey's favorite words: Fun. Whether he is preaching at Dollywood, repairing the dishwasher at the staff dorm, sharing Christ with an international college student, teaching a summer missionary the meaning of responsibility, or doing administrative work with me -- his comment is always "this is fun!" Being faithful to your call is simply the most fun you can have as a Christian.

_____________________________________________________________________

Joey about SMRM:

SMRM values volunteers. Our goal is to call out Christians on mission and to enable them to fulfill that call. All volunteers with SMRM have the space and freedom to use the gifts God has given to each person. One example of this would be Candice Coleman, a daughter of Sevier County Baptist Association's churches who is a snowboard instructor and winter worship music leader for us.

Resort missions does not just happen. It is not "play." Every action has purpose and intentionality.

There is a deep rooted vested interest to those who live and work in the resort and leisure community. This is the result of long term trust and involvement.

Bill has expectations that all individuals involved in SMRM are to take it to the next level --operating within the realm of professionalism. This push, this goal, is always there for all of us.

Bill is always looking to be at the creative edge --teaching, leading, and developing others in ministry. SMRM follows the leadership of the Holy Spirit in adapting to the constant changes in the resort industry.

Bill has a gift of teaching, guiding, and mentoring others into ministry. In this year alone we have celebrated Jacob Baccus's work and growth into seminary, one of the best summer staff's in SMRM's long and meaningful history, and my arrival and commitment.

Thanks be to God.
Bill and Joey, co-authors

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair continued

2010-10-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

As we delivered the cookies on Oct 7, one crafter pointed out that he had worked the show for 23 years. He estimated that he had enjoyed about 200 cookies himself! Other crafters were trading with each other for their favorite cookies. Others asked for cookies prepared by specific ladies. One crafter declared with mischievious eyes that she had not received a bag ---as she wiped cookie crumbs from her face! And one couple said that they moved to Gatlinburg last year and opened a shop ---and are attending Gatlinburg First Baptist because of its strong youth program (for their daughters) and because they knew the church through its cookies.

Our outreach at the crafts fair offers:

THE BLESSING

We affirm the crafters as people made in the image of God, the Creator. In the image of this Creator God, the crafters create art and craft. We pray God's blessings on their hands as they bring beauty to life.

THE GOOD NEWS

Cookies! The people of Gatlinburg First Baptist Church and its Missions Committee make 200 decorated bags of homemade cookies. We deliver them as another affirmation of the crafters and their work. This church cares about people!

THE WORSHIP SERVICES

Each Sunday of the show we offer a worship service for the crafters. These services provide an opportunity to celebrate God's love and hear his Word for our lives in the midst of a busy time.

THE VOLUNTEER HOST PROGRAM

Each day of the show, we have two volunteers available to the crafters. Al and Jane Rahn of Georgia have come for six years as chaplains for the show. They booth sit for crafters to provide 30 minute breaks and to speak into the crafters lives. They are booked full all through the show!

THE RESPONSE

As we receive these crafters into this setting and into our lives, we share the love of God and the salvation of Jesus Christ with them. This is truly a God blessed ministry done by so many volunteers.

The Measure of Love

2010-10-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

7 cookies each x 200 crafters x 29 years = 40,600 cookies

How do you measure a gesture of kindness?
We have only begun this year at the annual fall Gatlinburg Craftsman Fair.

2010-09-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries

at the Grand Canyon National Park

Bill Black and Tracy and Jay Hartman took SMRM to the Grand Canyon for four days while attending the national board meeting for A Christian Ministry In The National Parks. Both Bill and Tracy are on the board of this wonderful organizatiion. The meeting provided time for us to enjoy each other (Jana and Jonathon were both there too!) and to enjoy the canyon. Our relationships with ACMNP are central to our mission as they provide access into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These relationships also provide us insights into other expressions of resort minitries. In turn, we speak into practical ministry guidance for the board, since we live with the ACMNP team each summer.

As a side note, we were greeted at the opening banquet by our friend Dave Gable, who was wearing a SMRM staff shirt! Dave and Millie have visited the dorm and SMRM. He is a pastor from California who was serving as interim pastor at the Grand Canyon Community Church. SMRM does get out there --or better, SMRM gets into peoples' lives!

Filing away at the Bunion

2010-09-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

A fantastic day full of friendship, spiritual conversations, life & culture discussions, and sharing the blessings of God. Seven international students came hiking with me to Charlies Bunion. After a wearisome 8 miles (or 12K sounds better...) we made it back to the car and a few of us headed out to dinner. If communication is an art, then why not step into the creative nature of our God; there is much to discover in this canvas!

"No one in my country does this sort of kindness to us." were the words I heard as I was helping them shop for food and sundries. An end to a perfect day? Maybe not perfect, my wife and son are back in Texas so my home was empty when I returned, but being able to share the motive for our kindness sure made my day better!

-Joey Buck

2010 Summer Staff Photos

2010-08-16T09:21:00.001-07:00

Hear--Listen--Receive--Relate--Witness

2010-08-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Our 2010 Summer Staff was one of the best!

Our theme this summer was on personal relationships developed through the process of hearing someone, actively listening to them, and then receiving them as an individual. Hearing leads to listening; listening leads to receiving; and receiving leads to relationship. It is in relationship that witness and ministry takes place.

This year’s staff “got it” using this process. Their interpersonal relationships were powerful in witness for Christ and in ministry. They also “got-most-of-it” (how’s that for a Bill Black phrase?) in terms of intentional preparation, focus, initiative to accomplish purpose, and evaluation on the program side. (For those of you who know me, you know that I expect us to always do more!) They were a joy to work with.

Joey and Katy Buck and our houseparents contributed greatly to this successful summer. Their careful guidance and generous care made life much easier for all involved. This ministry is blessed with staff and houseparents that make the summer possible.

Hear—Listen—Receive—Relate—Witness

I would invite all of us to apply these verbs in evaluative action as we read the following comments:

My greatest joy this summer was seeing how God would make something that I thought would be hard –and make it an easy experience. He has done this time and time again this summer. It deepened my trust in Him.
Victory

I have grown the most this summer in my relationship with Christ. I really have seen myself grow closer to God. I have seen myself grow as a leader for the future.
Tanner

I now have a passion to just love on people for Christ’s sake.
AnnaMarie

The one person I best remember is S____ because I can see his is craving for God’s love –and I got to show him that.
AnnaMarie

SMRM is a family, another home, a God-given experience as well as a challenge I never expected. You can never understand the pull of the ministry until you answer God’s call to serve.
Danielle

My greatest joy was spending time with the international workers and witnessing to them. I found myself laughing, crying, and praying with them!
Scotti

My biggest problem is that I don’t want to leave. I love missions. I love SMRM.
Allison

_________________________

And the other good news is that they are all asking “Is it next summer yet?” “When can we come back?” I’ve been told they even have a countdown clock running!

Thanks be to God for a good summer.
Bill Black

July 8, 2010 A Day In The Life Of SMRM

2010-07-13T07:23:00.000-07:00

A Day In The Life Of SMRM
Bill Black

“That was the best day ever!”
This is the heart hope of most families on vacation: to have a child cry out in excitement or a parent say in contentment: “That was the best day ever!”

July 8, 2010 stands as one of the best days ever in the long and beautiful story of SMRM. It was a day filled with the graces of God and the actions of committed Christians. It was a day of answered prayer matched with touches of love. It was a day of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries at its very best.

Like most great moments of life, it was not planned or expected. It was a day for which we were prepared but not anticipating. July 8 was God’s day –blessed, designed, guided, and empowered. It was a day for us to declare with the Psalmist “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!” (Psalm 118:24)

Most times, we read this verse as a simple affirmation of a happy day, a day of worship and gladness. For us to be able to apply it to July 8, 2010, we must recognize the preparation necessary within all involved and the purpose of a Christian community on mission.

Preparation for such a day comes through:
A Christian community prepared to work together;
Having individual’s spirits responding to the leadership of the Holy Spirit;
Having hearts ready for whatever needs doing;
Having bodies in shape for service;
Recognizing that unexpected events lead to expected opportunities for evangelism and ministry;
Calling out to God throughout the day and trusting God to answer prayers;
Accepting God’s answers and moving forward with the next moment.

The purpose of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries is to reveal the presence of God to those who live, work and play in the Sevier County area of the Smoky Mountains. In the summer, we are a community of faith made up of local volunteers and summer missionaries. This summer’s team of SMRM has been wonderful to work with and strong in their ministry. They have been community. July 8 enabled them to fulfill this best expression of community. Martin Buber writes “Community … cannot occur once and for all time: always it must be the moment’s answer to the moment’s question, and nothing more.” He further states, “…they are community only if they prepare the way to the Promised Land through the thickets of this pathless hour. …A community of faith truly exists only when it is a community at work.” (Seeds Of The Spirit, Wisdom Of The Twentieth Century, pp. 41, 42)

On July 8, SMRM acted as community, as Church, to bring forth God’s grace.

By now you are crying out for me to get on with it and tell you what happened. The day began with standard assignments of two day camps for children in privately owned campgrounds, a van trip to Knoxville for 11 international college student workers to Social Security by Jacob Baccus, and an afternoon and evening of hosting international college student workers at Pigeon Forge First Baptist Church’s LaPuerta (The Door) Ministry Center. One other activity was to be an evening camp for children at Outdoor Resorts of America. For Joey Buck, SMRM Assistant Director and Dollywood Chaplain, it was to be a day off with his family –including parents from Texas and his best friend who surprised him with a visit from Texas. For Bill Black, SMRM Director, it was to be a day of office work and sermon preparation followed by touring ministry sites with our houseparents for the week, Sue and Scott Barber.

At 8:00 a.m., Bill received a phone call from his friend Joanna who is the supervisor of international workers at Ober Gatlinburg. Nine of her students had been in a wreck in their private minivan at 6:30 a.m. that morning as they drove into Gatlinburg after spending a night in a cabin in Pigeon Forge. She knew that one group had been transported to LeConte Medical Center and another group to the University of Tennessee Medical Center Trauma Unit. At least one had been taken by helicopter. With this call, the day began.

As you hear the story of the day, hold onto our declaration: “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24) Listen to the story of God’s answers to prayers and God’s graces and how SMRM responded to the Holy Spirit’s leadings.

Joey Buck and SMRM volunteer Marci Claude went to LeConte Medical Center to identify students and comfort them. Five students were there and the first answered prayer was that none were seriously injured. Most had cuts and stitches, abrasions, bruises, and seat belt burns. (Let me clarify that no alcohol was involved in any of the students and the driver simply lost control on the Spur between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge and hit a boulder on the side of the mountain. –another answered prayer when you pray it. Also, eight of the students are Ukranian and one is Russian.)

Joey met with National Park rangers (the Spur is in the Park) to help with identification, accident statements, and accident citations. The students said later they had never met such “nice police” or such “kind ambulance workers”; “they kept trying to make us laugh and telling us we would be okay” –a grace of God in the midst of a scary situation in a foreign country.

Bill took Joanna and another Ukrainian student (who could be our translator) to Knoxville and UT Medical Center Trauma Unit. God answered our first prayer –about the health and location of one missing student—when we walked into the door of the Emergency Room and were met by her with a policeman who was taking her to the cafeteria with a free meal coupon in his hand. God answered our next prayers when we found the other three students and were assured that they were all going to be okay, with no surgeries or serious injuries. One had a blow to the head and was being kept sedated and would be in ICU overnight but we could talk to him as he came out of sedation through the afternoon –if we could speak Ukrainian, as his English skills were temporarily gone. The others had cuts and stitches, abrasions, bruises, and a severely sprained ankle. Medical prayers were answered and fears were calmed throughout the day.

Here’s where SMRM became a community on mission and God took us:

The afternoon assignment at LaPuerta was accomplished with a minimum staff willing to step out. Other staff went to Ober Gatlinburg to visit with co-workers telling them of their friends and to pray with them. Jacob returned from Knoxville and joined in on this. Still other staff went to LeConte Medical Center with a van to help transport students as they were released. Joey went to the pharmacy for them. Three injured girls were taken to Bill and Cindy Black’s home for 27 hours of rest and watch care –mostly done by SMRM’er Sharrunn Rhone who stayed up and nursed them with tender, God-graced love (She chose to sleep on the floor outside their room’s door so she could hear and respond all night). Houseparent Sue Barber and daughter, Brooke, made food for the students at Ober Housing and those at the Black’s. Brooke was blessed to find them on July 9 morning eating a breakfast of graham crackers with peanut butter and a bowl of fruit that she had made! One SMRM volunteer was to arrive on July 8 afternoon and came into an almost empty dorm. Instead of feeling rejected by not being greeted, he looked at the assignment board and joined Bonnie in preparing for the evening day camp. He joined that team as the best use of his heart and hands. Bill finally left UTMC late in the afternoon with 3 students and returned them to Ober Housing. Joey and Bill spent hours on the phone with Ober Gatlinburg management making sure they were informed and that we were within their proper channels. Jacob went back to Knoxville and UTMC to bring a girl to spend the night with the girl who was admitted (yet another answered prayer that she had no internal injuries) (a boy was also kept in ICU) and to pick up Joanna. That night found SMRM still at work with staff locating, counseling, reading Scripture, and praying with a Turkish boy whose birthday they had all been celebrating (and who felt terribly guilty). At 10:45 pm Sue and Scott led all of us in sharing how we had seen God at work through the day and in prayer for all those injured.

Every need through the day was met by grace. Every prayer was answered by a loving Father. Every action was taken in heartfelt hope. Each phone call Bill made with a request or change in plan was answered with “we can do that –and do it with gladness”. Our daily assignments were done and done well. The crisis needs were handled with God given energy and God blessed grace. Individuals followed the Holy Spirit. All recognized that the day was truly about God and others. Community became real –in action and in service together.

It was the day the Lord had made, we did rejoice and were glad in it.
Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries exists for just such a day!

Such a day does not happen by design or by chance.
It happens because Christians are prepared in heart, body, and spirit.
It happens because we are in tune with the Holy Spirit.
It happens because our hope is with God’s hope for the day.
It happens because the Church is ready.

Two questions stand before us in worship today:

What did you do July 8, 2010?

And, better yet,

What does tomorrow hold for us?

Prepared by Bill Black

Day Camps

2010-06-11T05:38:00.001-07:00

Day Camps have begun!

You can tell from the pictures that this group of SMRM staffers is a high energy and active team!

Even the snack time includes story telling at its best (and most humorous)!

Craft work is serious business and, for this day camp team, each element of the craft (some not pictured) was tied to the Bible story. Tell some story, bring it to life with craft and then put it all together!

2010 Staff Promise

2010-06-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

We ended orientation on June 2 with the sensitivity prayer exercise on the Parkway in Gatlinburg. The staff gathered at Bill and Cindy's with her chocolate chip cookies for further inspiration. We then covenanted together for our 2010 Staff Promise:

O God Our Father,

We covenant with you now to help the world understand

To the visitors to whom I minister I give:
Love, attention, helping hands, the light of Jesus, hope, love as though they were family,
genuineness, authenticity, someone who cares for them in a strange place,
not just Jesus stories but the reason of the story: Jesus Christ

To the employees and locals to whom I minister I give:
Respect and excellent service, support and appreciation, prayers, a shoulder,
confidence that we will be there praying alongside them, learning who they are,
solely give myself as a servant,
a relationship

To those in service with me I give:
Respect, open mind, talents to use in service, love, trust,
knowledge, patience, honest friendship, compassion, love of Christ,
encouragement, hard work

To the Church I give:
Self to be used in every opportunity, prayers, respect, service,
dedication, servant heart, not to be selfish,
hands to serve and mouth that speaks what God says

To myself I give:
Openness, trust and faith in God, a chance for patience,
love, perseverance, self confidence,
time spent with God to grow, self discipline
a promise to let people in
time alone to worship and read so I can grow
open mind, open heart

To You, O Lord, I give:
Everything, my all, love and devotion, obedience, my fear
everything you want me to be with no complaint or question,
my fears and struggles, agape love, servant heart,
totality of my being
this ministry and praise no matter what happens

2010 Summer Staff

2010-06-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

The dorm has come to life!

Our 2010 summer staff has arrived!

And already we have done a night hike into Laurel Falls for the "beautiful feet" Bible study!

This time we added a brief and safe bear encounter --nothing like a night hike with a bear to build TIGHT community!

Orientation is just completed and ministry action has begun!

Can anyone identify the exercise in the second picture? Think personal evangelism!

The SMRM family experience has taken shape with wonderful houseparents and covenant community living. (Here Kay is coached by her granddaughter on how to make brownies!)

We are excited about this summer. Please pray with us as we grow as on mission Christians.

Please pray with us as we seek to reveal the presence of God to those we meet.

Pray for SMRM this summer!

Support SMRM at our Faith Based Partners Baseball Game

2010-05-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

Faith Based Partners of Sevier County
…working together for Food, Shelter, Health, and Spirit.

June 1, 2010

Dear Friends;

Faith Based Partners of Sevier County is working together to develop the means and resources to raise awareness and provide for the needs of Food, Shelter, Health, and Spirit.

Here’s a great opportunity for an evening of summer fun! On Thursday, July 15, 2010 Faith Based Partners of Sevier County invites you to attend Faith and Family Night at the Smokies Ballpark. Your business can treat employees and their families and friends to a night of baseball and be recognized for your contribution to help your community at the same time. We are offering several levels of corporate sponsorship packages and we are sure at least one of them will appeal to your company. The selection is as follows:

The Grand Slam – Cost is $1000. You will receive 135 field level tickets and publicity as a sponsor.
The Home Run – Cost is $500. You will receive 65 field level tickets and publicity as a sponsor.
The Triple – Cost is $250. You will receive 30 field level tickets.
The Double Play – Cost is $100. You will receive 10 field level tickets.
The Relief Pitcher-I cannot attend and need no tickets, but please accept my donation.

In addition to a great evening of baseball you’ll have the opportunity to participate in some other great activities such as between innings games, pictures with the team mascots, and special between innings give-aways. It’s going to be a summer evening of good clean family fun.

Enclosed is a sponsor pledge sheet that you can return to us indicating your willingness to “cover the bases” in Sevier County. We appreciate your help. If you have any questions please feel free to call Bill/Cindy Black at 865-436-4076 or Dick Wellons at 865-908-3153.

In His Service,
Bill Black, Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries, http://www.smrm.org/
Mary Vance, Mountain Hope Good Shepherd Medical Clinic, http://www.mountainhope.org/
Dick Wellons, Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries, http://www.smarm.org/
Steve Streibig, Sevier County Food Ministry, 865-428-5182

__________________________________
PLEDGE SHEET
I’LL HELP COVER THE BASES!

I’ll participate as a sponsor for the Faith and Family Night at the Smokies Ballpark on Thursday, July 15, 2010. Please accept my contribution as I have marked and send my tickets to:
(MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES)
Name:
Contact Person:
Address:
City, State, Zip:
Phone Number:
Email address:

My selection is as follows:
____The Grand Slam – Cost is $1000. You will receive 135 field level tickets and publicity as a sponsor.

____The Home Run – Cost is $500. You will receive 65 field level tickets and publicity as a sponsor.

____The Triple – Cost is $250. You will receive 30 field level tickets.

____The Double Play – Cost is $100. You will receive 10 field level tickets.

_____The Relief Pitcher – I cannot attend and need no tickets but please accept my donation of ________.

Your tickets will be processed and delivered to you by a representative of the Faith Based Partners in advance of the game. Thank you for your participation in this great event.

Please return to Cindy Black
2206 Highland Acres Way
Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

If you have any questions please feel free to call Bill and Cindy Black at 865-436-4076.

In His Service,
Bill Black Mary B. Vance Dick Wellons Steve Streibig

PLEASE MAKE ALL CHECKS PAYABLE TO
THE TENNESSEE SMOKIES

Missions Is Commitment

2010-03-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

First Baptist Church, Lebanon, Tennessee and
Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries

For twenty three years the “Singles Serving The Savior” of First Baptist Church, Lebanon, Tennessee has been a part of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries. It has been a joy to work with Bill and Cindy Black. What a blessing they have been to the ministry in Gatlinburg and to us! Each Memorial Day weekend our group has led worship services in various campgrounds. It is a blessing to worship and fellowship with campers from all over the USA. Some of the campers take time to share what the Lord is doing in their lives. Some have experienced the death of a loved one or are seeking the Lord’s will in their lives. What a great opportunity to share the love of Christ with them! Thank you, Bill and Cindy and the TBC for giving us this opportunity.
Rev. Don McElroy, Associate Pastor, FBC, Lebanon

I became interested in the Smoky Mountain Resort Ministry twenty-three years ago, when I found that there was a need to minister to the campers. The Singles group from First Baptist of Lebanon, Tennessee, were invited to come on Memorial Day weekend to help start the summer camping season. The campers were friendly and interested in having a worship service on Sundays within their own campgrounds. I found out from Bill Black, the director of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries, that many campers receive a blessing and make a decision for Christ during the summer season. It is this knowledge, which keeps me returning each year to kick off the summer camping season for SMRM with First Baptist of Lebanon, Tennessee. I also enjoy the fellowship of the Singles group from Lebanon F.B.C. and Don and Ann McElroy, who coordinate this annual mission trip with Bill Black.
Raymond Hunter

Memorial Day, 2009 was my first opportunity to participate in the mission project FBC does annually with SMRM. The opportunity to visit in the campgrounds reminded me of the “fine folks” that enjoy this vacation lifestyle. I was greeting courteously as I extended invitations to our worship services on Sunday morning; yet some of those people did not know Jesus as Savior and Lord.
God opened the door for me to share Jesus with a man at his campsite. He started asking questions so I jumped right into the opportunity. The man told me he would not be at worship but would send his family. I pray others will continue to water those seeds planted.
As a former camper, I know ho important these worship services are to reach our world for Christ. Thank you to the Blacks, SMRM, TBC, and my church for allowing me to be a part.
Elaine Pearson

Our Memorial Day trips to Gatlinburg are both relaxing and invigorating. We get to see true ministry at work through Smoky Mountain Resort Ministry. It is my privilege to be a part of this ministry. I feel so blessed to be able to use my gifts and talents to share the uplifting message of Christ with campers, if only for the weekend. SMRM ministers to a wide population in the Smoky Mountain Region. This includes believing campers, seeking to continue their worship while enjoying the beauty of the area, the temporary and permanent staff of the resorts, and those who are searching for life’s spiritual answers. This ministry strives to meet not only the spiritual needs but the physical and emotional, too.
Our Gatlinburg weekend also means a time of relaxation and fellowship with fellow singles from my church, FBC Lebanon, Tennessee. This may include taking in a show, driving around the beautiful scenery, or just sitting in the swing on the porch of our cabins. Together the ministry and the relaxation make for a memorable and uplifting experience each year.
David Hunter

Each of these comments about the relationship between FBC, Lebanon and SMRM reveals the heart and hope of partnership mission through commitment.

Don McElroy’s statements show the longevity of relationship. The consistent returning partners and the room for fresh participation demonstrates the commitment to missions necessary for our world to be reached. Raymond Hunter’s words reveal his heart of care for people. Elaine Pearson’s words point to the focused prayers and intentional work needed in resort missions. David Hunter’s approach shows that missions is fun!

Going Deeper With Joey: Missions Call and Lifestyle

2010-03-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

"So many missionaries, intent on doing something, forget that His main work is to make something of them..." -Jim Elliot

Six years ago I was fresh out of college and eager to embrace the challenge of missionary work. Two of these years I was serving with the North American Mission Board as a US/C-2 Missionary in the Rocky Mountains; the remaining four years were invested in Seminary. Being convinced of God’s calling in my life to live a life-style of evangelism and having gained fantastic experiences from the mission field and a seminary education one might reason that I would have learned fundamental basics of the Christian life.

Caught in the excitement of returning the mission field, rejoining the ranks of those in resort & leisure missions, and realizing the fruition of a dream, I was determined to do something great… and do it for the Lord! But just days after arriving in Gatlinburg, even before the moving truck arrived with our household goods, God began to [not so] gently remind me of his purposes. He does not need me to do something great for Him. He is the great I AM.

‘…it was not burnt offerings and sacrifices I wanted from them… Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Do everything as I say, and all will be well!’[1] He requires my obedience. God has opened the door for me and my family to join with Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries and I know incredible experiences are awaiting us in this venture. His main reason for us being here, however, is not for the task at hand. More importantly I am here so that He might make something of me. I am each day to endeavor in every task, in every thought to be conformed into the likeness of Christ so that the Glory of God may be reflected. Service driven, people centered. Jim Elliot understood this principle and it cost him his life.
[1] Jeremiah 7:22-23

Joey Buck: New Assistant Director / Dollywood Chaplain

2010-03-11T08:06:00.000-08:00

Joey, Katy, and Hayden Buck have joined our SMRM family!

Joey is our new Assistant Director / Dollywood Chaplain.

Here are some of his opening thoughts:

March 10, 2010

It has been an exciting three weeks as my family and I have begun our work with SMRM. There are many facets of ministry with which we have already been involved. Just days after our arrival, and before the truck arrived with our household goods, I was called out to the hospital to meet a Dollywood employee family whose loved one suffered a traumatic fall resulting in critical injuries. It is a privilege to be together with the family offering comfort through the assurance of God’s presence, power, and faithfulness. As we continue to watch the Great Physician heal our friend, I know that the ministry to this family is in the sense of love and prayers from all who support this minsitry.

The winter season at Ober-Gatlinburg is nearing the end…but the snow continues to fall! Skiing conditions are great and the conversations with the employees have been even better. As the International students are preparing to say goodbye to new friends and return home, we take the opportunity to visit with them about their experiences in the United States. To so many, the idea of a relationship with Jesus is a new concept. Our lives have demonstrated that being a Christian is more than talk, more than a religious tradition- it is about being open to the love of God and living in the joy of knowing He loves us!

Katy and I quickly unpacked the boxes so that we could open our home to a few students who offered to help us move in. We discovered that “old-school” Nintendo is popular entertainment in Brazil! The students appreciated a good American hamburger grilled on the back porch along with the free internet to check email and catch up with family back home. One-by-one they are leaving to returning home but we are content knowing that they have seen God’s love demonstrated through service and have heard God’s truth through our conversations.

We are glad to be here and look forward to the plans God has for us.
Joey Buck

Ski Ministries At Ober Gatlinburg

2010-01-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

Jacob Baccus followed our gifts of a Sunday donut and a worship devotional sheet with conversations with international employees in the rental room.

And then:

What do ---snow --- 12 degrees --- skis and snowboards --- Sunday --- church bulletins --- hearts turned towards God --- and 19 people --- have in common?

An outdoor worship service at the top of Castle Run at Ober Gatlinburg!

January 3rd’s cold temperatures made for a close circle as we gathered to worship. It was one of our more joyful services as each made the choice to celebrate their love for God in such conditions. Candice Coleman couldn’t play her guitar but she did lead us in praise songs.

The cold also made for a short sermon on Bill’s part!

Thanks be to God for worship that makes us stronger in our faith and gives God praise!

Ober Gatlinburg International Employees Soup Dinner

2010-01-06T17:14:00.000-08:00

SMRM and Gatlinburg First Baptist Church hosted 70 students from 8 countries on January 3 for a dinner. Soups, chili, and rice and beans made up the heart of the menu. The heart of the dinner, however, was in the fellowship created with the students and in the love of Jesus Christ that was shared with them.

These students have come to work at Ober Gatlinburg for the winter season. Many are active Christians. Noel, from the Philippines, is a pastor and in theology school there. When Bill Black called on him to lead in prayer and in thanking God for our night, he prayed with a passionate heart and with tears of joy in his eyes. Many of the students, however, are not Christians. Jacob Baccus shared the wisdom of seeking Jesus in their travels while Bill gave out Bibles in their languages and in English.

Pray with us as we continue in relationship and friendship with these students.

Association of Resort and Leisire Ministers

2009-11-16T06:45:00.000-08:00

The Association of Resort and Leisure Ministers was founded in the early 1990's as a professional development organization for those who do such ministries. Bill was the chair of the organizational committee and the first president. ARLM functions to provide networking, advocacy, skill development, and community for resort and leisure ministers.

The 2009 national meeting took place recently in Branson, Missouri. This meeting was filled with the energy and synergy of preparing for unknown futures through the deep roots the organization enjoys. It was a very hope-filled and strong gathering.

As a new member and as one whom God has called into this ministry expression, Jacob Baccus shares the following thoughts:

I went to the Association of Resort and Leisure Ministers Conference with high hopes but I tried to keep my expectations realistic. I have been to secular and religious conferences of leaders that have not met my hopes and some that have been pretty good but none that exceeded my hopes as much as this conference. It was exciting to be in a room with so many like minded people. These people understood my heart for ministry and meeting people where they are not where I might want them to be. The good thing was while all of these ministers were "outside the box thinkers", they each had their own approach to fulfilling their calling as resort ministers. I realized that the way I carry out my calling may not be the exact same as anyone else but that’s okay because God has called me to something unique. Within this unique calling, however, I felt affirmation that this is the type of ministry I am passionate about. When I heard people sharing from their hearts about why they do what they do it resonated with me.

For example, I was very excited to learn of an individual who was called to serve as a resort minister in an urban setting. I was intrigued as he shared his passion of ministering to the guests of the community while also ministering to the casino workers within that same community. His ministry was diverse with a broad reach. As he was speaking I thought to myself that this is another potential way I could fulfill my calling as a resort minister. He showed this diverse people group how to experience Christ because he involved himself in the passions and work of others while experiencing enjoyment together.

I want to show people the life eternal and abundant that Jesus offers, how better to experience abundant life than having fun along the way. Ministry should be fun and I know that I can be serious about my calling while enjoying myself within that calling. This conference opened new doors and revitalized my passion to serve Christ, to live out my calling to my fullest potential, and to understand the importance of connecting with like-minded people so that others my experience the life Christ offers.

Jacob Baccus leads as interim Dollywood Chaplain

2009-11-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

SMRM is fortunate to have Jacob and Rachel Baccus ministering with us this fall. Jacob is serving as interim Assistant Director / Dollywood Chaplain. Rachel is providing music leadership in our worship in campgrounds and in Dollywood. This couple served on SMRM staff in 2006 and were 2007 team leaders for A Christian Ministry In The National Parks' Great Smoky Mountain ministry team. Jacob's ministry style of taking a personal interest and being wide open to God's leading is a joy to behold. The good people of Dollywood have received him well as he ministers in transition.

Please keep Jacob and Rachel in your prayers this fall. Please keep SMRM out there, too, as we seek for our next permanent chaplain.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair Ministry: Cookies, Crafters, Relationships

2009-10-08T10:27:00.000-07:00

SMRM's relationship with the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair began in 1982 when Cindy worked at the Fair. Her insights led to an outreach to the crafters using bags of homemade cookies prepared by Gatlinburg First Baptist Church. The first time we gave out cookies, three different crafters asked if there was anyone who could come and lead a Sunday worship for them. We began worship that year and have continued through the years. The partnership between SMRM and First Baptist has continued through the years with the cookies coming as a church-wide project of the Mission Committee. The church prepared and helped deliver 225 bags this year. The response of the crafters is heartfelt. One crafter followed Libby W. as she went down the aisles just so he could hear her offer God's blessing to each crafter. Another crafter accepted his bag with the statement that "this is the only show we do where we feel the people of the town love us." Always, the crafters say "thank you" to the Church for thinking of them.

The worship services on Sunday bring about 45 crafters together of a time of praise, prayer, Scripture, and music. The beauty of the worship is in the praise of God and the commitment to gather as God's people. The crafters do not have this opportunity
at most shows and worship with a glad heart with their neighbors.

Another expression of SMRM's ministry at the Fair is that of volunteer booth sitting. Al and Jane Rahn are fifth year volunteers who come for the ten days of the summer show and the 17 days of the October show to minister to the crafters. They provide thirty minute breaks to the crafters (who sign up in a notebook). The notebook schedule is full before the show opens with crafters coming into the office to sign up. Al and Jane ask for prayer concerns the crafters have and speak God's love into each of the crafters on a daily basis.

The July Fair, with its many families, provides us an opportunity to witness through a children's craft booth with free sand art crosses and free face painting. Our summer missionaries share Christ's love with children all through the show.

Sam and Tracy Large, the Fair's owners, utilize SMRM in pastoral care for the crafters and other employees. Their Christian generosity provides for an open relationship with the Fair. We have provided transportation for emergency trips to the doctor, airport, or car repair center. We have prayed and watched with crafters whose home areas were being flooded by hurricanes. We have helped with visiting grandchildren. Through counseling and witnessing we have enabled God to work in peoples' lives with salvation, healing, and hope.

Cookies connect us to crafters and enable us to enjoy relationships. Through these, relationship with Jesus Christ becomes real. Thanks be to God.

Scott Capshaw Resignation and A New Beginning

2009-08-19T07:54:00.001-07:00

A New Beginning…By Scott Capshaw

In 1997, I came to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as a college student working for a summer with Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries. Through that experience, I found my calling in resort missions. Throughout seminary, God kept providing opportunities to communicate the Gospel in leisure settings ranging from the State Fair of Virginia to the 2002 Winter Olympics.

In 2003, Jennifer and I accepted an invitation to serve with Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries. For the past seven years, I have had an opportunity to express my calling to resort ministry as the Assistant Director and Chaplain for Dollywood.

Now, Jennifer and I are in the midst of a new journey. As many of you already know, we have accepted a calling to be Southern Baptist Mission Service Corps missionaries in Alaska. We will be starting a new resort ministry in the community of Girdwood, Alaska.

On Thursday, August 13, we sold our home. My last day of service at Dollywood will be Sunday, September 13. During the fall, we will be traveling in the South and the Southeast raising support for this new endeavor. In late November or early December, we will be moving to Alaska.

Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries and Dollywood have a continued commitment to providing a chaplain for the employees of Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country. Bill Black, Director of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries, has arranged for Jacob Baccus to serve as the interim chaplain. He will complete the remainder of the season. Jacob and Rachel Baccus will bring a fresh perspective with energy and enthusiasm.

Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries is receiving applications for the position of Assistant Director and Dollywood Chaplain. Key members of Dollywood, the Tennessee Baptist Convention, the North American Mission Board, and the Sevier County Association of Baptists will be involved in that process.It will be headed up by Bill Black the Director of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries. (Information about this position and how to apply is posted on the SMRM homepage.) I know and trust that God is in this and that He will provide the next chaplain who will care deeply for Dollywood’s employees and guests.

Jennifer and I will miss each of you. Please know that you have made an impact in our lives. If you would like to join our newsletter to hear about what we will be doing in Alaska or if you would like to consider partnering with us in this new ministry, you can email us at: scottcapshaw@hotmail.com.

SMRM HOUSEPARENTS The Heart of Our Family!

2009-08-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

SMRM has been blessed by God through our houseparents for 30 years. The lineage of these Christian servants is one marked by deep care, generous giving, practical parenting, creative fun, good food, and serious praying. The staffs of SMRM have been fed, guided, disciplined, encouraged, and loved by our houseparents.
God has gifted us with the best of his people on mission through the years (I know better than to start a list because there are too many to name:

When you think of Betty Mears and Mason and Anita Shively, you think of fun and energy. James and Eudora Phillips were Southern cooks who loved with country goodness. Eloise Ogburn made us sit up straight and mind our manners. Patti Hall, her daughter, throws staff dinners and parties with flair and extravagance. Both represent the Christian hope of SMRM. Robin Wilcox Green took her three summers of staff experience in the late 1980’s and now comes to cook and go out on in ministry programs "Telling people about Jesus is why I am here", she says. Joyce and Bill Schofill served food that made all of us be at the table on time with its wonderful flavors. Dorothy, Josephine, and Jeannette love us as grandmothers and teach us how to be family. Tracy and Jay Hartman have managed everything from student crises to broken septic systems –and solved all the needs while cooking and teaching on ministry.

For fifteen years we have enjoyed Jerrie and John Wayne McCrary and Carolyn Shelton. Their two weeks in the middle of the summer have always brought laughter and tables of food and gentle love. Their recent stay was their last as houseparents. The following blessing was shared with them at their closing commissioning. It is a blend of the informational letter we send to each houseparent and some of our responses to their love:

Bill Black: March, 1994 to July, 2009
Scott Capshaw: Jerrie and John Wayne McCrary
Pulaski, TN 38478
Carolyn Shelton
Pulaski, TN 38478
Jennifer Capshaw: Dear Jerrie and John Wayne,Dear Carolyn,

Staff Member: "I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

Staff Member: And Juice, and Hassie Sue (Jerrie), And Sammie Faye (Carolyn) said "Here am I." "We will go."

Bill: Thank you for your commitment to work as a houseparent for SMRM this summer. We are excited to have our staff dorm and kitchen as a vital part of this ministry. Your presence and your work will make a great difference in our missions efforts. Your skills in the kitchen and in creating a healthy family setting for our volunteers are much needed and appreciated. We are looking forward to having you here the dates of June 28 – July 12. We will look for your arrival on the afternoon of June 28. We will have a meal prepared that afternoon that we may ask you to serve in the evening. You would be free to leave after lunch on July 12.

Staff Member: "Commitment" ---A word used so lightly. "Commitment" ---A word that speaks of you and your relationship to God and your call to mission. "Commitment" ---A style of life that you have shown to us in service, care, fun, and family.

Scott: Our houseparents have an important role in this ministry. Your responsibilities include planning and preparing meals for our staff, some grocery shopping (we provide the money), supervising the cleaning of the kitchen and dorm, supervising relationships among the staff, and creating a positive home atmosphere for the volunteers that invites their trust and openness to you.

Staff Member: For fifteen years you have parented here. Your responsibilities have covered all aspects of life. You have done well and you have us as your children all over the world: As Scripture says, "parents are the pride of their children." (Prov. 17: 6)

Jennifer: The meals are scheduled as follows: Breakfast is done individually by the staff with an emphasis on cereal, poptarts, fruit, and juices. Lunch is generally for 10-12 people and consists of a lighter meal: stuffed baked potato, taco salad, small pizzas, soup and sandwich, etc. Supper is a full meal with a balance of meat and vegetables. A late evening snack is always appreciated also. Sunday lunch is also a large meal with guests. There is also a need to help those who cannot be home at mealtime prepare sack meals or save plates for them for later.

Staff Member: The food you have served has enabled us to live as family. The holiness of the serving has enabled us to understand God’s love. The generosity of your giving has enabled us to be strong.

Staff Member: Through you, we have experienced the truth said of the early Church in Acts 2:46 "They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people."

Bill: We anticipate having about 16 volunteers in the dorm this summer. Several of our local staff may sign up for meals in advance also. There will be sign up sheets done for each week to help you prepare but please remain flexible as plans and needs change. There is also a sign up sheet for chores that will help you monitor that situation.

Staff Member: We have two distinct ministry teams living in the dorm this summer. SMRM and A Christian Ministry In The National Parks are similar programs with great students. We will be supervising and housing both teams. Life in the dorm will be under the same standards for all. I have enclosed a staff list so that you will better know how to pray for our staff.

Staff Member: You have cared for approximately 300 staff through your years! You have guided, loved, challenged, encouraged, and celebrated. As this year’s staff, we say thank you for all of us.

Staff Member: Thank you for being who you are as God’s servants and as part of SMRM.

Bill, Cindy, Scott, Jennifer: We love you,

Scott and Jennifer Capshaw,Bill and Cindy Black
All: Thanks be to God. Amen.

2009-08-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

We live in interesting times. We always have, but every day is seems there is more pressure from the outside world. Things get wilder, things get weirder and for some, the pressure grows so much that a complete disillusionment may occur and color the judgment that the world is quickly running down the path of ruin. We may even ask ourselves "Where am I, Lord?" or better yet, "Where are YOU, Lord?"

And that is the primary goal of Smoky Mountain Resort Ministries - a chance to break from the stress of every colliding factor the world is throwing at you and return to your foundations with Jesus Christ. Resort missions is communicating the Gospel to people in a leisure lifestyle setting. The freedom of this ministry requires these focal points:

• People Over Programs
• Grace Over Law

• Urgency and Sensitivity

• Creativity

• Evangelism Over Entertainment

• Earning the Right to be Heard

• Relationships that Enable Hearing

• Initiative to Accomplish Purpose

• Excellence Over Adequacy

• Quality in Materials and Equipment

• Covenant Relationships with Volunteers

• Supervision as Ministry

• Enabling Others to Discover God's Call

• Challenge Over Comfort

• Intentional Missions

• Risk

We offer a wide variety of services and getaway activities, including trips to Dollywood, White Water Rafting, Special Events such as the Fourth of July in Gatlinburg and much more - all of which are designed to replace the stress in one's soul with the reminder of God's true vision for life on Earth. Relax and rejoice.

If you or your family or group would like to talk business, please see our website at http://www.smrm.org/.

We welcome you to our ministry.