PK Nashville - 2007

INTEGRITY IN ACTION - ONE PINT, ONE CAN AT A TIME

2007-08-10T21:23:00.000-06:00

“We’ve spent a lot of time helping men understand what integrity means,” said Dr. Tom Fortson, president and CEO of Promise Keepers. “Now it’s time to show our communities what men of integrity act like.”

Promise Keepers has continued its practice of local food drives at all of its “Energizing Men of Integrity” event venues in 2007. On Friday night, emcee Reggie Dabbs reminds the men to bring as much food as they can carry on Saturday morning for local faith-based food banks, and it’s happening!

So far in 2007, nearly 17,000 pounds of food has been collected at the doors of Promise Keepers arenas.

Summer is a difficult time for community service organizations, as supplies run low and regular donors are away during the summer. This affects both food banks and blood banks, which have especially lean stores due to summer accidents and the need for emergency blood supplies.

Cooperating with the local chapters of the American Red Cross and Florida’s Blood Centers, 135 units of blood has been donated by Promise Keepers attendees already this summer.

Way to go, guys! Keep it up.

Thank You For Your Service

2007-08-04T23:41:00.000-06:00

Dear Team PK Nashville,

In the two weeks that have passed since Promise Keepers Nashville 2007, I have wrestled with how to adequately say thank you, thank you, and thank you for the final time as we experienced an incredible weekend of fellowship and friendship. Then, I realized that although the conference has passed, what took place will live on from here throughout the rest of eternity as evidenced in the changed lives of the men and their families, and the multiplied lives that will be touched all because you cared enough to love them and serve them. The final word for this conference, like other Promise Keepers conferences, is the indelible Word of God that was written into the hearts of thousands of our friends and neighbors in Middle Tennessee, so many for the very first time.

The numbers were incredible…………..148 new brothers written into the Lamb’s Book of Life………..176 rededications to continue the journey and re-engage the battle as Christ followers…………. numerous prayer requests that were lifted up in the Prayer Room, the Prayer Booth, and on commitment cards received by our evangelism team……….over 2 tons of food gathered to serve the homeless and destitute of our community through Second Harvest Food Bank…………..58 pints of life giving blood to the Middle Tennessee Red Cross…………..over 800 volunteers selflessly giving of their time and talent to provide the over 9,000 men and boys in attendance a fresh new encounter with Jesus Christ.

But as you know, the numbers do not reflect everything that is worth counting. The conference brought thousands of us together in a new sense of Christian community and knit our hearts together cross-culturally and cross-denominationally. The power of that unity strengthens us to continue the battle for men’s souls well after the lights have gone off, the crates have been loaded, and the trucks have left for future destinations. The saving message of the Gospel, that Christ has instilled in our hearts, calls us to greater service to usher in the coming of His Kingdom.

The conference was a refreshing and reverberating call to discipleship. I think I can speak for many more than myself when I say that Promise Keepers jolted me out of my everyday religious comfort zone and reminded me of the revolutionary call of Jesus Christ. It was a call to prayer, a call to the power of prayer, a call to the necessity of prayer. The conference was a call to leave ourselves and to touch others. Never are we as strong as when we are on our knees before a Holy God in confessing that apart from Him, we can do nothing.

There are many who say that after 17 years, the impact of Promise Keepers is waning. To those who are merely observing from the outside as armchair spectators and scribes of history, Promise Keepers is described as a ministry whose better days are behind it and whose run has come to its inevitable conclusion, like all other religious fads that come and go. Yes the crowds are smaller and the dates are fewer, but don’t ever mistake the impact this move of God has had and will continue to have in our lives and in the lives of all who have been touched by it………over 6 million men and counting.

If Coach Mac were writing this, he would be the first to give God the glory. I am thankful that God allowed me to witness His power in the ministry that is Promise Keepers. No matter what the future holds for PK, whether it moves forward in its present form or if God turns the page to an exciting new dawn, don’t be discouraged that it has passed, but rejoice because it has happened.

So it is with humble gratitude that I thank you for your willingness to be the eyes, ears, feet and loving arms of the Father during the months before and after those miraculous two days.

But it is not over! The final word is not written. The lasting impact of Promise Keepers has just begun because many of you are continuing to allow God to use you to touch your community. God is continuing to reap the harvest planted during the past five months. The ripple effects are still moving through Middle Tennessee, adding daily to the growing family of God. May we continue to allow God to use us for His glory.

Because He came and is coming again, to Him be all honor and glory forever and ever! Let us toss our crowns before the throne of Jesus Christ! For He is worthy!

By His abundant grace,

Tim Richards
Assistant Event Director & Volunteer Staff Representative
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007
Mobile (615) 319-7150 Home (615) 302-3606
E-mail at PKNashville2007@aol.com

Nashville PK Energizes Fathers, Sons, Brothers

2007-07-27T20:57:00.000-06:00

9000 men donate blood, food for local charities

Nashville, July 23, 2007 – At Promise Keepers in Nashville this past weekend, 9,000 men connected over issues of adventure, truth, life and death, brotherhood and the mystery of women. They left the Sommet Center prepared to engage their families, workplaces and communities with a practical and visible Christian faith. Dr. Tom Fortson, president and CEO of Promise Keepers, challenged the attendees to put their faith into practice. “Promise Keepers began as a movement, and is now a movement with a mission. We want to help men demonstrate integrity in action.”

Notes and quotes from the event

Integrity Music’s PK7 and worship leader Stephen Newby tuned up the crowd with up-tempo praise and worship music throughout the event. The 2007 collection of music Promise Keepers is called Energizing.

As the book world celebrates the final installment in the Harry Potter series, Nashville-based politically incorrect comedian Brad Stine took on witches. “School kids in Washington had to cancel their Halloween costume party because a local member of Wicca was offended by the stereotype of pointy hats and brooms. Don’t they have a potion for that?”

Citing 2006 research on the decreasing number of friends in the U.S., Bishop Joseph Garlington (www.ccop.org) addressed “The Significance of Connecting with a Few Other Men.” “We are a part of the whole, and we won’t function apart from the whole,” said Bishop Garlington.

Bishop Larry Jackson helped men understand the “Heart of a Woman.” “She wants your ears, men. So many arguments are caused when you try to solve the problem before you have heard the problem.”

Community Impact

On Friday afternoon, fifty-eight (58) productive units of blood were raised in the lobby of the Sommet Center. The Tennessee Valley Region of the American Red Cross organized the blood drive, and 50 men were first-time blood donors.

On Saturday morning, Nashville conferees and church vans brought cases and cases of food to the arena. The 4,780 pounds of food filled a truck from Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee and restocked the shelves during typically lean summer months.

Friday at Sommet Center

As a professional adventurer, Bob Cornuke (http://www.baseinstitute.org/) admits many people don’t understand his work. “When you look for Noah’s ark, people think you have tin foil wrapped around your head and you’re looking for the mother ship,” he says. But Cornuke isn’t just chasing adventure. He says he’s out to prove the accuracy of scripture. In looking for the shipwreck of the Apostle Paul, an event described in detail in the Book of Acts, Cornuke says, “The precision of scripture is amazing. If you follow its clues, you won’t just find fantastic objects. You’ll find it’s a roadmap for life.”

Chair-throwing evangelist Adrian Despres tackled hypocrisy among Christians. “Evidence number one of being a Christian is your love, joy and peace,” Despres said. “The other evidence is the conviction of sin.” Among those raised in a Christian home, 176 men rededicated their lives to Jesus Christ. Another 148 men, young men and boys made first-time decisions to follow Jesus Christ with their whole lives.

from Promise Keepers

Promise Keepers Nashville 2007

2007-07-21T20:41:00.000-06:00

Men Gather 9500 Strong for Promise Keepers at the Sommet Center...

Many thanks for the hard work from all of the volunteers - hundreds of women, youth and men gave of their time to facilitate the third stop on the seven conference schedule... more to come!

Click here to visit the Nashville 2007 Flickr set for more photos!

* PARKING UPDATE for Volunteers *

2007-07-20T06:25:00.000-06:00

LifeWay Christian Resources has generously offered our volunteers the free use of three of their parking lots during the conference. Parking is at your own risk and neither Promise Keepers nor Lifeway Christian Resources is responsible for any damage or theft regarding your vehicle or personal property. In order to honor their generosity and not abuse the privilege, please adhere strictly to the directions below:

NORTH LOT – corner of 10’th Ave N & Church Street

(Available all day Friday and Saturday - first come, first served)

FROST LOT – between 8’th & 9’th Ave at Commerce St

(Available after 4 PM on Friday and all day Saturday – first come, first served)

10’th Ave Visitor’s Lot – corner of 10’th Ave & Commerce St

(Available after 4 PM on Friday and all day Saturday – first come, first served)

PLEASE DO NOT PARK IN THE BOOKSTORE PARKING LOT (BROADWAY & 10’TH)

Please place the placard below in plain view on your dash board and pencil in your mobile number in case of emergency!

----------------------------

PROMISE KEEPERS VOLUNTEER

Mobile Phone # ___________________

Please remember to bring your volunteer liability form so we can speed you through volunteer check-in and onto your assignment. Please be sure to show up 30 minutes before your shift assignment. Thank you for your service and sacrifice to reach the men for Jesus Christ.

Proudly serving with you,

Tim Richards
Assistant Event Coordinator
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007

In just a few hours...

2007-07-20T05:52:00.000-06:00

Schedule & Important Details

2007-07-20T04:47:00.000-06:00

Schedule & Important Details

Things You Need to Know

Conference Times*
Friday - Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
Friday - Program runs 6:30 - 10:00 p.m.
Saturday - Doors open at 7:30 a.m.
Saturday - Program runs 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

*All times are approximate.

There is no box lunch provided on Saturday

Wear your wristband to the event. It is required for entry. It’s mostly waterproof, so you can shower with it on (please).

Parking fees will be determined by each parking facility. We encourage you to carpool to save on parking costs. Public parking may be limited.

Men with special needs will find reserved areas at the events that are wheelchair accessible.

Spanish language translation is provided at all events. Spanish language headsets are available at no charge at the arena.

ASL interpreters will be provided at all events. For more information, please call Promise Keepers Customer Service at 866-PROMISE (8:00am -8:00pm, M-F, MT).

There are no refunds on registrations. If you are unable to use your registration, please consider donating it to a local church.

If you lose or forget your wristband you will be required to pay a replacement fee of $5.00.

For specific conference information and updates, or for additional registrations, please call 866-PROMISE (8:00am - 8:00pm, M-F, MT).

Theme T-shirts, Worship CDs and other PK merchandise are available for purchase at each conference.

What should I bring?
A Bible, pen, a friend and an open heart.

What should I not bring?
Coolers, cans, glass or plastic bottles, umbrellas, tape recorders, or video cameras. Professional photo/video equipment must have media credentials. Due to heightened security at most venues, backpacks, briefcases, etc. may not be allowed. Visit your venue’s website for specific information on prohibited items.

On Saturday morning, bring non-perishable food items (hey, bring a case even!) for a local Christian food bank.

*** Registrations are Non-Refundable ***

What can happen in fifteen days?

2007-07-06T00:01:00.000-06:00

Within the next fifteen days, there's quite a flurry of activity surrounding the conference. It's hot outside, there are lots of emails flying around, databases to reconciled, paperwork to file and phone calls to make to finish out the extraordinary volunteer effort by the local volunteer team. But take some time to rest and see what God is up to.

What is God up to? - With your prayers, He is stirring the hearts of men to boldly pursue Jesus Christ. To this day, God is still using Promise Keepers, not because Promise Keepers is great, but because God is.

Here's a testimony from a first timer from the Promise Keepers' conference in Anaheim. Let this be an encouragement to all - your efforts and most importantly your prayers do make a difference!

I had never before attended a PK event prior to this last weekend. I was invited by my brother-in-law who has been to quite a few of these events.

During the last couple of months, I have made some life-changing decisions. I recently left the career that I was involved in for the last 6+ years with nothing planned to fill that void with. I also began attending church regularly for the first time since I was a child. I needed to make a change in my life in quite few ways if I intended on keeping my family together and keeping my health. My brother-in-law and a few other friends that are Christians have provided me with great support.

I arrived on Friday evening not really knowing what to expect. The first speaker really hit home with me because, I too am a military veteran. I never served during a time of conflict, but I related to everything that he was saying. When his son-in-law came out, this really hit home. I too came from an abusive and broken family. This is what led me to the military at the age of 17. Hearing what they had to say sent me the message that this is where I needed to be this particular weekend.

The rest of the speakers and entertainers were equally inspiring and taught me a lot about myself. I am a newly devoted man of Christ and am very thankful for the invitation that was made to me to be part of an amazing weekend. I became very emotional several times throughout the weekend and am forever grateful for what I went through. I am greatly looking forward to next years event here in L.A. Thank you PK for a great GOD filled weekend.

Fernando
Simi Valley, CA

Promise Keepers Nashville !

2007-07-02T09:18:00.000-06:00

Promise Keepers opened its 17th year of conference ministry at the Mobile Civic Center on the Gulf Coast of Alabama.

Read more about the conference in Mobile here

Got friends sitting on the fence whether or not to attend the NEARLY FULL Nashville conference? Send them (and view for yourself) the new Interactive WebBrochures.

View the Nashville WebBrochure here and pass it along.

It's a quick way to tell your friends, family and church members about the upcoming PK conference...

Meanwhile, the Nashville Leadership Team is finalizing all of the logistics and ministry opportunities to ensure a suberb conference experience!

There is still time to volunteer by registering on the right sidebar by clicking on VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION... just indicate Nashville as the conference city; there are a few spots needed for retail on both Friday and Saturday. This slot is ideal for women of all ages to catch a taste of the Promise Keepers conference experience that husbands, fathers, sons and brothers are passionate about!

Volunteer today and we'll get you in the system immediately as we will be sending out volunteer packet information this week!

Any questions? Just use the Leadership eMail Contacts links or Promise Keepers LINKS on the right sidebar.

The Prayer of Paul

2007-06-28T17:54:00.000-06:00

A prayer composed from the prayers of Paul in Ephesians 1 & 3, Philippians 1 & Colossians 1

O Lord, with praise and thanksgiving, I come before you - the God of my Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father - and I ask for a Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that I can know you intimately. I ask, too, that you will illuminate the eyes of my heart so that I can know the hope to which you are calling me - the hope that is my glorious inheritance in the saints - and so that I can know the tremendous power that is available to me as a believer.

I ask also that from your store of glorious spiritual riches you will strengthen my inner man with power so that Christ can live in me by faith. I pray that I will have the superhuman ability, together with all the Christians who are rooted and established in love, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. I want to know that love by experience-the kind of love that surpasses knowledge - and I want this so I can be filled in all of my being with God himself. I realize, too, that there is a Spirit in me that is able to do beyond all I can ask or imagine. Lord, may that Spirit arise in me and bring glory to Jesus!

I pray that as I experience a fresh revelation of your love, Lord, that this love will mature in me and grow more and more in knowledge and wise insight. May I be able to recognize the highest and the best and to live blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ.

Lord, in all of this, let me see things from your point of view, something I can do through the spiritual insight and understanding you have promised to give me. Above all, let my outer life bring credit to you and let me bring joy to your heart by bearing true Christian fruit.

I ask this in the wonderful and powerful name of Jesus and I thank you that no weapon formed against me or the fulfillment of this prayer will be successful.

Amen.

Profile of a Team

2007-06-27T13:33:00.000-06:00

As July 20 -21 rolls around the corner, it is important to not only stay in a posture of prayer, but to team together as one cohesive unit to set the stage for the Holy Spirit to bring about salvation and awakening to every man attending.

As we begin to team together, here are some wisdom nuggets from unknown sources. As leaders, it is always helpful to do a self check as we "shamelessly recruit" and assemble our various teams -

Profile of a Team

• Works toward a common goal
• Develops its members’ skills
• Efficiently uses its time and talents
• Embraces the diversity of its members
• Is committed to continuous improvement
• Builds morale internally
• Performs effectively and produces results
• Accepts praise and criticism
• Cooperates rather than competes
• Maintains a positive attitude toward everyone’s ideas
• Stays on task
• Uses resources wisely
• Communicates openly
• Teaches and learns from one another
• Resolves conflicts effectively
• Welcomes challenges
• Shares pride in its accomplishments
• Celebrates successes

Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.

And keep in mind always: the Lord doesn't ask about your ability, only your availability; and, if you prove your dependability, the Lord will increase your capability.

THIS THURSDAY! Promise Keepers Leadership Meeting

2007-06-27T08:04:00.000-06:00

I want to take this opportunity to share with you what an amazing job you are doing to prepare your teams for Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. Most of our teams are at or nearly approaching full recruitment.

Can you believe June is almost over? As of today, there are only 24 days until Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. I look forward to visiting with you about the many exciting new developments since our last meeting on June 14'th. Based on where we are by this Thursday, it is entirely possible that this could be our last meeting at Lee Company as a leadership team before we gather the night before the conference.

Please plan to join us this Thursday:

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday June 28, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

THE LEE COMPANY
Training Room
331 Mallory Station Road, Franklin, TN 37067
Cool Springs area

MapQuest

Join us for an inspired time of worship and prayer, along with important volunteer information and briefing regarding your assignments, last minute leadership needs, and other issues as we prepare for the conference.

Be sure to bring a check for your leadership team golf shirts (if you want one). Orders are due to Ingram Howard this Thursday night.

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

Promise Keepers Nashville Volunteer Commissioning Service at The People's Church Thursday night July 19'th, 7 PM - 8:30 PM.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve with each and every one of you.

Grace & peace,

Tim Richards

Assistant Event Director & Volunteer Staff Representative
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007
Mobile (615) 319-7150 Home (615) 302-3606
E-mail at PKNashville2007@aol.com

Be a Man of Prayer!

2007-06-22T14:17:00.000-06:00

Here is a great resource from the Promise Keepers website – As we round third base and head into the home stretch for the Promise Keepers conference, it is important to stay “prayed up”… Don’t lean on the Prayer Captain to do it for you or your pastor, or your wife –

Take the lead and have a simple conversation with God today… (and clear the clutter off your passenger seat of your car, so He can have a place to sit!)

“Cast all your cares on Him, because He cares for you!”

"I am a man of prayer." (Psalm 109:4)

In every great movement of God in history, two factors have been present:

1) God placed in the hearts of His people a hunger and thirst for Himself.
2) God poured out a spirit of prayer upon His people.

A movement of God has never come by man-made methods. You can’t promote or advertise a move of God. You can’t organize or manipulate a move of God. You can’t work it up you can only call it down. Revival is a sovereign, sudden, selective, and supernatural movement of the Spirit of the Living God. "Not my might, nor by power, but by My spirit, says the Lord of Hosts." (Zechariah 4:6).

We are in a battle! (Ephesians 6:10-12). And we have been chosen to be on the front lines of that battle. Prayer is the mightiest force in the universe, and our most powerful weapon to win great victories.

The church has always gone to battle on the knees of its prayer warriors, especially on the knees of its praying men.

• Praying men are God’s chosen leaders.
• Praying men always feel a need to be alone with God.
• Praying men have a desperation for God.
• Praying men have a longing, a hunger and a thirst for God.
• Praying men have an insatiable desire for the power of God.
• Praying men long to see the glory of God.
• Praying men are the productive workers for God.
• Praying men receive His direction to do work for His glory.
• Praying men are the energizing force in the church.
• Praying men are the determining element in revival.
• Praying men keep God’s Spirit full force in His church.
• Praying men pour into His church spiritual forces to protect her from materialism.
• Praying men win victories, rout the enemy, and defeat the foes of the Gospel.
• Praying men are the ones who attack "the gates of hell."
• Praying men are the ones who raise God’s banner in the very camp of the enemy.
• Praying men are fearless.

Nashville Radio Spots now available!

2007-06-21T11:07:00.000-06:00

Promise Keepers has created radio spots in the MP3 format that can be used in church services. Each is tagged with city-specific information. Click the link to listen or you can right-click and select 'Save Target As' to download the file.

There are varying formats in length - listen for them to appear in drive time and various talk, sports and Christian stations here in Middle Tennessee.

Photo credit overstated.net

Earning an M.B.A.

2007-06-20T22:59:00.000-06:00

Dave Thomas

Dave Thomas, founder of the Wendy’s Restaurant chain, illustrates the learning value of humility in his book WELL DONE: THE COMMON GUY’S GUIDE TO EVERYDAY SUCCESS. He writes, "I got my MBA long before my G.E.D." He continues, "I even have a photograph of me in my MBA graduation outfit -- a snazzy knee-length work apron. I guarantee you that I'm the only founder among America's big companies whose picture in the corporate annual report shows him wielding a mop and a plastic bucket. That wasn't a gag" he continues. "It was a case of leading by example. At Wendy's, MBA does not mean Master of Business Administration. It means Mop Bucket Attitude. It's how we define satisfying the customer through cleanliness, quality food, friendly service, and atmosphere."

Dave Thomas got his G.E.D back in the 1990's, having dropped out of school when he was 15 years old. But he got his M.B.A. when he was 11 years and was baptized and began his journey of following Jesus. He truly took on the role of a servant, even though he was a multi-million dollar executive of a fast-growing restaurant chain. He said that Christianity was more than just a doctrine you talked about on Sunday morning. In fact, his advice was: "Live your faith. Don't wear it on your sleeve; roll up both sleeves and do something about it."

Do you have an M.B.A.? Is your attitude like that of Jesus? Are you rolling up your sleeves and doing something about your faith?

"For everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled, and he who humbles himself shall be exalted."

Dave Thomas

Dave Thomas Bio (pdf)

The Unselfish Side of Prayer

2007-06-19T23:17:00.000-06:00

We spend a great deal of time in every planning meeting with prayer and a worship time -

Tonight, I was reading J. Oswald Sanders' book (and I quote) re:

A great portion of Paul's prayers dealt with intercession - the presentation of the personal needs of others at the throne of grace. This is the unselfish side of prayer. Paul was constantly praying for his converts and churches.

Intercession does not have in view the overcoming of the reluctance of God, but in the claiming of the mercies of Christ on behalf of others who are in a bad situation. The spiritual development of his flock was the lifeblood of Paul's experience, as we see in his prayers of intercession.

Others, dear Lord, Yes, others,
This all my prayer shall be;
Help me to live for others,
That I may live like thee.

It was the experience of Henry Martyn that during times of spiritual dryness and depression - and who doesn't have such experiences? - he often found "a delightful revival in the act of praying for others, for their conversion or sanctification, or prosperity in the work of the Lord."

Every man at the Nashville Promise Keepers conference (and we are expecting no less than a sold out event - in every sense of the word) will truly be the blessed ones as recipients of your collective intercession and volunteer efforts.

Think of all the changed lives; the families affected that will be set in motion July 20 -21... Do you recall the first time you went to a Promise Keepers event? Someone volunteered, someone prayed over the seat that you sat in... someone "shamelessly recruited" because they knew by faith the payoff of a changed life... make that call, send that eMail, shamelessly recruit to build your teams...

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 2Cor 9:12-14

Others, dear Lord, Yes, others,
This all my prayer shall be;
Help me to live for others,
That I may live like thee.

Blessings –

Kerry

May The Joy of the Lord Be Your Strength!

2007-06-18T21:21:00.000-06:00

Remember when there was a big hole in the ground just a little too close to 1st Baptist Church? Opened in 1996, as the Nashville Arena and formerly known as the Gaylord Entertainment Center (now the Sommet Center), this building was built with the music and sports fan in mind. Great acoustics, sight lines and a economic boost to downtown, God had His plans in mind as well!

Think about all the events and expressed prayers that have taken place in the area - notably in 1885 when Nashville riverboat Captain Thomas Green Ryman was converted by southern evangelist Sam Jones and decides to build a tabernacle - Union Gospel Tabernacle (later to be renamed the Ryman Auditorium) - to serve the city's revivals.

At the Sommet Center, many God-glorifying events have taken place - they include the Promise Keepers Clergy Event, which was the largest gathering of clergy ever in Nashville, Women of Faith, Focus On the Family's Renewing the Heart, Jubilees, The Gathering, Passion Ministry, The Southern Baptist Convention and now, Promise Keepers returns yet again for an encore from 2005 and 2001. The theme back in 2001 was “Turn the Tide: Living Out An Extreme Faith.” Promise Keepers founder Bill McCartney said the current culture is pulling men away from faith in God. Instead, McCartney said, an extreme faith is required to represent Christ to families and communities. Joe White portrayed a Roman cross-builder, constructing a 12-foot cross on stage. Thousands responded by tacking handwritten confessions to the cross.

We had the honor to see what God did in August of 2005 at “The Awakening - An Unpredictable Adventure” as Promise Keepers marked its 15th year of conference ministry - It was a crowning achievement to an incredible year as over 3,300 gave their hearts to Jesus for the first time, while thousands of others came forward to rededicate their lives during the twenty city confernce season.

“And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” - Paul’s Letter to the Church at Rome, chapter 13, verse 11 (NIV).

Now with thirty days in, we are ready for A Flood: Let the Adventure Begin!

In your volunteer efforts, every phone call made, every email sent, every encouraging word spoken, every point of action completed and every prayer uttered will set in motion what God wants to do in the hearts of men July 20 - 21. Is it a lot of work? Sure it is! But keep in mind as you are volunteering and recruiting for your teams, there are men in churches and the marketplace doing the hard work as well of inviting their brothers, fathers, sons, coworkers and neighbors to attend the conference as well!

If you look carefully Friday afternoon in the surrounding parking lots, you may spot some skid marks of tennis shoes of men who are hesitant to attend! Rest assure, it will be worth it! 1 Timothy 2:3-7 "...God our Saviour, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."

So stay focused on the assignment that you have been entrusted with, delegate! delegate! delegate!, set the tone as a servant leader, shamelessly recruit, stay encouraged and lean on the Lord as the conference date draws near. One key to remember is watch your sleep levels as well - get plenty of rest - "when fatigue walks in, faith walks out."

- May the joy of the Lord be your strength!

Kerry

Nashville Promise Keepers Prayer Points

2007-06-18T21:11:00.000-06:00

As we reflect on Promise Keeper's theme for the 2007 conferences “The Flood,” we are reminded that it is in prayer that walls begin to fall. Acts 16:25-26 tells us that Paul and Silas prayed unto God and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. It is impossible to explain the power and effectiveness of the New Testament Church without reference to prayer.

Prayer has been the vital link of sustaining this movement among men and within the body of Christ. God is calling the church to pray! Will you accept the call?

Prayer is a confession of our dependence on God and our obedience to His word. “By prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Phil 4:6)

Prayer! It is obedience!

Prayer! It builds our faith!

Prayer! It shows our dependence on Almighty God!

Allow the following prayer points to serve as a guide in your personal devotions, share it with your prayer group, or enlisting the entire church congregation to concert in this effort of prayer.

Let’s Pray!

How to Pray for Our Speakers and Promise Keepers Leaders

• The anointing of the Holy Spirit
• Protection from oppression or attack
• Health and happy family life
• Strength and vitality physically
• Close walk with the Savior
• Vulnerability to God and man
• Overflowing joy from the Lord

Prayer Suggestions for Men Attending the Promise Keepers’ Nashville Men’s Conference

• Preparation of each man by God
• Conviction of the Holy Spirit over sin
• Openness to the Lord for salvation
• Restoration for the fallen and hurting
• A strong representation by minority men
• For wives and families of each man
• For safety in travel, blessed fellowship

ALWAYS PRAY FOR YOUR PASTOR !

Prayer Suggestions for the Promise Keepers’ Nashville Men’s Conference

• That Almighty God will fill Gaylord Entertainment Center to capacity with whom He wants to be in attendance
• Blessing upon the 800 plus volunteers, supervisors and leaders
• Excellent weather for the week of July 15 - 21
• Smooth coordination of all logistics
• Translation team
• ASL interpreters for the deaf

and...

for the Holy Spirit to bring about Salvation, Reconciliation and Revival through Jesus Christ.

Nothing but the blood...

2007-06-18T20:49:00.000-06:00

Promise Keepers (PK), the international ministry to men, continues to mobilize men for local impact at its 2007 conferences by hosting blood drives at four arenas this summer. Last year, Promise Keepers attendees donated 213 units of blood at PK events.

The American Red Cross is proud to announce it is teaming up with Promise Keepers at select venues around the country for the second consecutive year. The Red Cross hopes that a large number of the men who come to town for worship, fellowship and inspiration will be inspired to take time out of their busy weekend to donate blood and help save lives.

Men of all walks of life and faiths will descend on Nashville, TN for the Promise Keepers conference on July 20, and everyone is invited to donate blood. Every presenting donor will receive a specially designed American Red Cross/Promise Keepers t-shirt (pictured below.)

"Men of today are caught in a flood of information, images, and schedules."
- www.promisekeepers.org

The same can be said about the public when it comes to donating blood. The American Red Cross hopes the message of helping save lives is not lost in the flood of information most Americans are under every day. Hopefully the opportunity to give blood will plant a seed in everyone’s mind that they can take home with them and continue to help save lives throughout the year.

The blood drive will take place on Friday, July 20 at the Nashville Arena from 3:30pm - 7:30pm. Please schedule a blood donation appointment online at www.givelife.org using sponsor code PromiseKeepers19. You will be asked to create a profile and you will receive an email confirmation.
You may also call 1-800-826-6239.
Eligibility questions may be posed at 1-800-GIVE LIFE.

Every two seconds someone in American needs blood. The need for blood reaches far beyond what you see in headlines: cancer, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, premature babies, burn victims and many other everyday situations require blood transfusions. Chances are everyone knows someone who has been afflicted with one of these health challenges. If all eligible blood donors would give on a regular basis, blood needs would be a thing of the past.

To be eligible to donate you must be healthy, at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and not have given whole blood in the past 56 days or a double red cell in the last 112 days. There is no upper age limit. You may not give blood if you have received Red Cross notification asking you not donate. Please bring ID or your donor card.

Via:
Drue Hackney
American Red Cross
Donor Recruitment Representative
http://tnvalley.redcross.org/

This Thursday!

2007-06-12T06:09:00.001-06:00

It is an honor and a privilege to serve with you as we prepare to host over 14,500 men for a fresh encounter with the Holy Spirit at the Nashville Arena July 20-21'st. As of today, there are only 39 days until Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. I look forward to visiting with you about the many exciting new developments since our last meeting on May 10'th.

Please plan to join us this Thursday:

Promise Keepers Nashville Leadership Team Meeting
June 14, 2007 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

THE LEE COMPANY
Training Room
331 Mallory Station Road, Franklin, TN 37067
Cool Springs area

MapQuest

Volunteer Hotline: (615) 319-7150

Join us for an inspired time of worship and prayer, along with important volunteer information and briefing regarding your assignments, available leadership and supervisory positions, and other issues as we prepare for the conference.

COMING ATTRACTIONS:

Promise Keepers Nashville Volunteer Commissioning Service
at The People's Church
Thursday night July 19'th.

Grace & peace,

Tim Richards

Assistant Event Director & Volunteer Staff Representative
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007
Mobile (615) 319-7150 Home (615) 302-3606
E-mail at PKNashville2007@aol.com

Next Promise Keepers Volunteer Leadership Mtg June 14'th

2007-06-04T19:07:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

Before I forget...

Our next leadership team meeting will be at the Lee Company in Cool Springs on Thursday night, June 14'th at 6:30 PM. Larry Whittlesey will be in town as we make final preparations for the conference.

We only have two (2) more meetings after this next one before the conference is here: Thursday June 28'th and Tuesday, July 17'th, both at Lee Company. Our Volunteer Commissioning Service will be at The People's Church on Thursday evening, July 19'th at 7 PM.

Some of you aren't reading your e-mails as I've put this info on the end of the last five I've sent. Unfortunately, some showed up Thursday night only to discover that we were not meeting May 31'st. So FYI.....I promised not to bombard you with e-mail, but the ones I send are important and need to be read so you don't miss out on any important information. As always, the blog is your go to source for the latest volunteer information.

I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you how much I appreciate the job you're doing in preparation for Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. We had an awesome time of praise and worship for PK PowerUP and a very informative and inspirational Ambassador Training on Saturday.

For those of you who missed, PK speaker James Ryle (Coach Mac's team chaplain and pastor) was on fire as he addressed the attendees Friday night. We had a rare opportunity Saturday as we were addressed via video by Dave Morrow ("Why Men Hate Going to Church") and in person by Steve Sonderman, pastor of Elmbrook Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and one of the foremost authorities on building and sustaining vibrant men's ministry in the entire country. His was the first book I bought after PK Break Down the Walls in 1996 as I had answered God's call to lead the men's ministry at Forest Hills United Methodist. It was truly a privilege to get to meet him.

The latest registration numbers for Nashville and Cincinnati percentage wise are neck & neck at #1 and #2! I think we’ll both sell out, but it would be awesome if we did it first. Look for radio spots to begin airing in the next few weeks on WLAC, The Rock, 104.5 The Zone, WayFM, and The Fish.

Judge Ash is working on finalizing a community service project as both a team building exercise and a way to promote visability (i.e. TV/Newspaper) for the conference which will most likely be the last weekend in June. There will be more info to follow as it becomes available.

We're well on our way to having our teams, though some are struggling more than others to make progress (I won't call you out, but please redouble your efforts.) Our goal has always been to be fully recruited by Larry's last visit (June 14'th), but I feel the June 28'th meeting is both more realistic and attainable. Please do not make the mistake of waiting to contact those on your prospect list as their schedules are filling up rapidly as well. You may find yourself a day late and a dollar short.

As always, I am here to serve you. Let me know if there's anything you need and we will do our best to provide it.

You are the best team anyone could ask for and it is a privilege to serve with each and every one of you.

Grace & peace,

Tim Richards

Assistant Event Director & Volunteer Staff Representative
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007
Mobile (615) 319-7150 Home (615) 302-3606
E-mail at PKNashville2007@aol.com

Please plan to join us next Thursday:

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday June 14, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

THE LEE COMPANY
Training Room
331 Mallory Station Road, Franklin, TN 37067
Cool Springs area

MapQuest

PowerUp! a photo recap...

2007-06-01T22:23:00.000-06:00

Service Begins with The Peoples Church Worship Band

Your Grace is Enough

James Ryle – (Conference Speaker – Founder, Truthworks Ministries)

...delivers a general overview of the Flood Conference

Men today are caught in a flood of information, images and schedules. It’s tough to filter out the noise and distill down to the essence of “who is God and what has he got to do with me?”

Personal Testimony – Mark Pagan

Pastor Alan Pace of The People’s Church leading corporate and small group prayer...

Chuck Schneider sharing about Ambassador Information & Saturday Training Promo Info...

How Great is Our God

Promise Keepers Team: L-R: Promise Keepers VP of Marketing - Rick Wright, National Director of Field Ministry - Chuck Schneider, Eastern U.S. Region - Hal Taylor, Field Director, Western U.S. Region - Bob Gay, Field Director, Central U.S. Region - Mike Harmon, Field Director. Not pictured: Dave Vega - Ambassador Ministry

TONIGHT! Power-Up Rally & Ambassador Training

2007-06-01T00:14:00.000-06:00

TONIGHT! - We've been pretty buzzed about the swirl of activity and the accomplishments thus far that the Lord has been gracious with all of the leadership team, captains, supervisors and countless volunteers who have answered the call to serve!

Take advantage of TWO separate resources beginning tonight & Saturday (June 1 & 2) at The People’s Church to not only catch a fresh vision, but also to introduce your key men, leaders of men and pastors to the mission of Promise Keepers!

Promise Keepers’ mission is to ignite and unite men to become passionate followers of Jesus Christ through the effective communication of seven promises to God, their fellow men, family, church and the world. Promise Keepers’ vision is simply put in three words: “Men Transformed Worldwide.”

POWER-UP RALLY

TONIGHT! Friday evening | June 1, 2007 | 6:45 pm – 9:00 pm

Who Should Attend the Power-Up Rally ?

Join us for an evening of live worship led by Michael Hill and The People's Church worship band, PK speaker James Ryle, PK North American Field Director Chuck Schneider, and PK VP of Marketing Rick Wright.

Hear inspiring testimonies of how God has used Promise Keepers to shape the lives of men and families for all eternity. Promotional materials (bookmarks, posters, DVD's, etc...) will be available for you to take back to your church and other churches in your community to promote awareness for the conference. Bring your men, your pastor, your family, in short, anyone who is a supporter of Promise Keepers and come join us for an inspired evening of worship and fellowship.

AMBASSADOR TRAINING

Saturday morning | June 2, 2007 | 8:00 am – 3:30 pm

Who Should Attend the Ambassador Training ?

• Ambassadors
• Men’s Ministry Leaders
• Pastors
• Men interested in becoming an Ambassador in their community

A PK Ambassador is the connective link between Promise Keepers, the local church and community leaders for men’s ministry ideas, resources and encouragement!

Ambassador Training Highlights:

• PK – Moving Ahead (Conference & Content)
• Exciting PK Videos
• Church Contact Ideas
• New Men’s Ministry Ideas
• PRAYER
• Pre-Conference Training
• Community Support Ministry

For walk up registration or for more information, please contact Ambassador Recruiting Coordinator... Rick Lee or 931-380-1752

- or - E-mail at PKNashville2007@aol.com

Ambassadors, by attending this special and new Ambassador Training rollout, we want to make sure that you are:

... Equipped ... Prepared ... and Excited to encourage other men to experience what you have seen and heard.

A $15 suggested donation covers the cost for the training and an Ambassador Manual, however, we will not turn anyone away, we want to build an army to do God’s work. So join us, bring your brother who may not be an Ambassador and maybe he’ll catch the vision along with you, and together help win men to Christ.

Lunches will be available at a nominal cost.

The People’s Church
Mack Hatcher Parkway at Highway 96
Franklin, Tennessee 37064
615-794-2812

MAPQuest Link

Directions: From the North, take I-65 South to Franklin Highway 96 exit, Turn right onto Highway 96, after the fifth traffic light, The People’s Church will be on your left. Enter on the east side of the building through the middle doors.

From the South, take I-65 North to Franklin Highway 96 exit, turn left onto Highway 96, after the sixth traffic light, The People’s Church will be on your left. Enter on the east side of the building through the middle doors.

FYI - NO Leadership Meeting Tonight!

2007-05-31T08:12:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that there is NO leadership meeting tonight (Thursday May 31st) normally held at the Lee Company.

We yielded the date to make room to allow everyone to attend the two important events - PK-PowerUP and Ambassador training - leading up to Promise Keepers Nashville 2007 coming up tomorrow night and Saturday, June 1'st & June 2'nd.

Read the post below for all the details!

PK Power-Up & Ambassador Training in one week!

2007-05-25T22:46:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone,

Just as a reminder, I want to share with you two important events leading up to Promise Keepers Nashville 2007 coming up next weekend, June 1'st & June 2'nd. Attached are invitations to both which provide detailed information regarding times and directions.

The first event, PK Power-Up (Friday night June 1'st at 6:45 PM at The People's Church) will serve as our springboard into the last 50 days leading up to the conference on July 20-21'st. Join us for an evening of live worship led by Michael Hill and The People's Church worship band, PK speaker James Ryle, PK North American Field Director Chuck Schneider, and PK VP of Marketing Rick Wright.

Hear inspiring testimonies of how God has used Promise Keepers to shape the lives of men and families for all eternity. Promotional materials (bookmarks, posters, DVD's, etc...) will be available for you to take back to your church and other churches in your community to promote awareness for the conference. Bring your men, your pastor, your family, in short, anyone who is a supporter of Promise Keepers and come join us for an inspired evening of worship and fellowship.

The second event, PK Ambassador Training (Saturday June 2'nd at 8 AM also held at The People's Church) is a vital training event that will equip you to become a bridge builder in your community between Promise Keepers and local pastors/men's ministry leaders in laboring to build the kingdom.

This event is special in that the whole training will be captured live on tape, to be utilized as THE training DVD for future Ambassador trainings around the country. That's right, your mug will be preserved for all posterity as hundreds of future ambassadors are impacted by your contributions and questions gleaned from watching you on this DVD that you will take part in on Saturday. Lunch and materials will be provided. I've attached a link - Ambassadors Responsibilities - which explains more fully about the Ambassador Program which will answer many of your questions.

Even if you've been Ambassador trained (whether current or inactive), there is a tremendous amount of new information that will be shared regarding PK's new direction, focus, and strategy for reaching the men that I'm sure you'll want to hear about. (Please confirm you plans to join us by notifying our: Ambassador Recruiting Coordinator... Rick Lee
E-mail at mailto:richardlee1@charter.net

At the end are two links to maps for directions to The People's Church.

In addition, our next Promise Keepers Nashville Leadership Team Meeting will be Thursday night June 14'th at 6:30 PM at Lee Company.

The next 60 days are crucial to our efforts to prepare to host a sold-out arena of 14,500 men on July 20-21'st. Those men are counting on us to provide the optimum atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to do His work. Your participation in these two events will energize and equip you to further the Lord's work through Promise Keepers to reach the men of our community for Jesus Christ.

Can we count on you to join us?

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend and thanks to all of those patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom to preach the Gospel.

Blessed to be a blessing,

Tim Richards

Assistant Event Director & Volunteer Staff Representative
Promise Keepers Nashville 2007
Mobile (615) 319-7150 Home (615) 302-3606
E-mail at mailto:PKNashville2007@aol.com

The People’s Church
Mack Hatcher Parkway at Highway 96
Franklin, Tennessee 37064
615-794-2812

MAPQuest Link

Directions: From the North, take I-65 South to Franklin Highway 96 exit, Turn right onto Highway 96, after the fifth traffic light, The People’s Church will be on your left. Enter on the east side of the building through the middle doors.

From the South, take I-65 North to Franklin Highway 96 exit, turn left onto Highway 96, after the sixth traffic light, The People’s Church will be on your left. Enter on the east side of the building through the middle doors.