The month of July has been interesting to say the least. Hot, humid days has been the norm for our area, and we are longing for rain and cooler weather. However, in spite of the weather we have been revived spiritually by the preaching and music at Pleasant Hill last week. Our children who went to camp report a spirit-filled fun time. Great-grandson, Jadon, attended camp with Clear Branch young people last week. I am ready to hear those reports. July is a time when family enjoys remembering the past and making memories for the future. My family enjoyed being together and enjoying the time with each other. Sarah Beth and Rebekah drove from Knoxville. Rebekah begins law school in August, and we will not see a lot of her this first year. She is going to be in our prayers, however, so we know she is going to be fine.

Congratulations, Emily DeLoizer and J. B. Cameron on the birth of Benjamin Ridge Cameron born July 21. He weighed 7 pounds 5 ounces and was 21 inches long. Proud grandfather, Nathan Cupit and great-grandmother, Doylene Cupit are welcoming this little one as well.

Please join the Union Church Community as we come together in prayer for our nation each day at noon. We are praying for the election and problems we are seeing and hearing about that are results of leaving God out of our lives. I enjoyed a candidate for one of our county offices at my home last week. It was refreshing to hear this man talk about problems with our education system and solutions to those problems. We need more Christian administrators and teachers who will take a bold stand to be faithful to God and people. Of course, children have always been and continue to be my focus on how I vote and my priorities. It is nice to know there are people who still haven’t given up on our children.

Our prayers include Melissa Sandifer who has back problems and my sister, Jeanne Hornback who had knee replacement last week.  Keep praying for revival to happen in our communities and spread across our nation.

Mark Dever talks about our churches’ involvement in one of his quotes: “I define the local church as a togetherness and commitment we experience that transcends all natural bonds—because of our commonality in Jesus Christ.” Scripture teaches us that the community that matters is the community built by God. So in this summer slump, may we head back to church and get involved in the Lord’s business in our communities.

Have a happy week.

If you have any Union Church area news to report, contact Erlene Hudson at (601) 786-3079 or e-mail ehudsonb@aol.com.