Dear Franklin Hill Church Family,
As we step into a new year together, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of serving as your pastor. The opportunity to walk alongside you, share in your joys and sorrows, and build relationships within this loving church and the wider community is truly a blessing. Each day I am thankful for the trust you have placed in me and for the warmth and welcome you continue to show.
Recently, I was reminded of an old answering machine message I used at the first church I pastored: “Jesus loves you just as you are, but He loves you too much to leave you that way.” This simple phrase captures the heart of the gospel and sets the tone for our journey together. It is both a comfort and a challenge—God’s Love meets us in our present circumstances, but He also calls us forward, inviting transformation and growth.
This past year has been filled with memorable experiences as your pastor. From quiet conversations over coffee to lively fellowship after worship, I have cherished every moment of building relationships and establishing trust. Together with the session, we are gradually learning how to listen well, to gain a deeper understanding, and ground our ministry on a foundation of Scripture and prayer. These connections, built one conversation at a time, are the heart of our church’s life.
One of the most significant milestones in our church life this past year has been the merger with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Presbytery. This process has been a source of great encouragement, fostering meaningful fellowships and deepening our theological understanding. Through this merger, we have been reminded of the personal importance of embracing God’s plan of salvation for all people. As a congregation, we resonate with the assurance found in John 3:16, recognizing ourselves as the “whosoever” mentioned in God’s Word.
This connection was further strengthened through my travels—twice to Kentucky and once to Tennessee—where I had the opportunity to meet with the leadership of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. These trips also allowed me to participate in the CPC Symposium, where I was able to engage with fellow members from across the country. Being part of this wider body of Christ has been a profound encouragement. It is heartening to know that, even among those we have not personally met, our church is remembered and supported in prayer by brothers and sisters in Christ who truly care for us.
Additionally, I have found great encouragement in witnessing the Holy Spirit’s presence among us. There have been clear confirmations of God’s extraordinary work—seen in spontaneous acts of kindness, in prayers answered in unexpected ways, and in the genuine faith expressed by so many during challenging times. These moments serve as powerful reminders that our lives are woven into a story far greater than our own (His-Story); we are each playing an intentional and meaningful role in God’s Kingdom work. Our involvement in this community and in God’s mission is no coincidence — it is by Divine design.
Throughout our journey this past year as a church family, we have certainly encountered challenges. There have been times of struggle, misunderstandings, and uncertainty. These moments have tested us, but they have also provided important opportunities for growth. In the midst of these difficulties, I am convinced that the Holy Spirit has been present, guiding us and helping us to develop patience, humility, and hope.
The Apostle Paul’s words in Philippians 2:2-6 offer a powerful reminder for us: “Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves, which was also in Christ Jesus….” This scripture encourages us to strive for unity, to practice humility, and to care deeply for one another.
Even when setbacks arise, God’s Word assures us that these difficulties can become opportunities to lean on His grace. As we face challenges together, we are drawn closer as a congregation, learning to support one another and to trust in God’s faithful presence among us.
Looking ahead, I am filled with hope for our future. My prayer is that we continue to nurture the relationships that make our church strong, to seek God’s Will in all we do, and to open ourselves to new possibilities. I am committed to walking this road with you, trusting that Christ will lead us into deeper faith and wider service.
Thank you for your faithfulness and for the ways you encourage and support one another—and me. May we move forward with grateful hearts, confident that God’s love is shaping us continually into the people He desires us to be.
With love and hope, in Christ,
Pastor John
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“You can accomplish more in one hour with God than in a lifetime without him.” —Author unknown
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Scripture Keys to a Joyful New Year
H old fast to your faith (Hebrews 4:14)
A ssemble with the saints (Hebrews 10:25)
P ray earnestly every day (1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18)
P ray for great blessings (Malachi 3:10)
Y ield not to temptation (1 Thessalonians 5:22)
N eglect not your talents and opportunities (Galatians 6:10)
E xamine yourself daily (2 Corinthians 13:5)
W ork diligently for the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Y ield your members to righteousness (Romans 6:11,16)
E xercise yourself in godliness (1 Timothy 4:7)
A im at sinless perfection (Hebrews 6:1)
R edeem the time (Ephesians 5:15, 16)
— Gus Nichols
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Bible Study Wednesday Evenings – 6pm in the Community Building
Choir Practice – Thursday’s at 1pm
You may reach Pastor John at #607-651-4760 or at his.ship@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 6th - Epiphany Wednesday, January 7th – Bible Study - 6pm Thursday, January 8th – Presbyterian Women meeting – 11am Sunday, January 11th – Barnes Kasson – 3pm Sunday, January 11th – Baptism Of The Lord Tuesday, January 13th – Session Meeting - 6pm Wednesday, January 14th – Bible Study – 6pm Monday, January 19th – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Wednesday, January 21st - Men's Breakfast - 8am Wednesday, January 21st – Bible Study – 6pm Tuesday, January 27th – Newsletter Deadline Wednesday, January 28th – Bible Study - 6pm
E-Mail Carolyn White with any praises, joys, or prayer requests (whisperpines@frontiernet.net) throughout the week.
Our church is currently seeking a new treasurer, as Julie has expressed her desire to step away, when a replacement is available. Any interested persons should inform Pastor John or a Session member.