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.

Let the Other Guys Do All the Work

2007-05-21T22:44:00.001-06:00

Let the Other Guys Do All the Work

By Steve Sonderman

I will never forget my first Promise Keepers conference in Boulder, CO in 1993. What a sight, walking to lunch and seeing all the smoke from the grills frying the chicken and steak. I honestly thought there was a fire on the campus. I guess, in a way, there was!

I will never forget when Bill McCartney lit a single candle, passed it on to Dave Wardell and eventually on to all 50,000 men in the stadium, signifying unity in the Body of Christ. I will never forget the hundred men coming home to Milwaukee energized and equipped to make a difference at their home, church, workplace and world.

Since our first conference in ‘93 we have taken hundreds and hundreds of men to conferences all over the Midwest; Indianapolis, Chicago, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Milwaukee. One of the best parts of these events is that someone else does all the work; all you have to do is show up and allow God to work in the lives of your men. Over the past fourteen years there are a number of things we have learned regarding how to maximize the Promise Keepers experience.

I. Have a Coordinator
Whether you are taking twenty men or five hundred men to a PK conference, you need a coordinator to handle all the details of the trip. This man should be very strong in the area of administration and will need to delegate to a team of men. This team will be responsible for publicity, travel arrangements (bus, plane, car pooling, hotels, etc.), registration and follow-up.

Read the other steps to take to maximize your Promise Keepers experience this summer (and bring a friend!)

Steve Sonderman is Associate Pastor of Men’s Ministry and Leadership Development at Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, WI.

Photo credit

Christian Men Plan October Rally in Washington

2007-05-19T20:10:00.000-06:00

By Nathan Burchfiel
CNSNews.com Staff Writer
May 18, 2007

(CNSNews.com) - Christian organizers on Thursday announced plans for a "sacred gathering of men" in Washington, D.C., in October, almost 10 years to the day after the group Promise Keepers conducted one of the largest rallies in the city's history.

Organizers say the 2007 "Stand in the Gap" (SITG) rally will differ from the 1997 gathering of the same name sponsored by the non-denominational Promise Keepers. The 2007 event, sponsored by the National Coalition of Men's Ministries is expected to attract about a fourth of the crowd that gathered in 1997 and will focus on "interactive elements" rather than Christian speakers and bands.

Although Promise Keepers is not officially involved in organizing or sponsoring the event, several of the coordinators have ties to it.

Read the rest of the article at CNSNew.com

Fling wide the doors...

2007-05-18T00:30:00.000-06:00

Conferences are filling Fast: Register Today at Promise Keepers.

Thursday Meeting Recap!

2007-05-10T23:08:00.000-06:00

As we head into turn two of setting the stage for the Holy Spirit to meet the hearts of men participating in the upcoming Promise Keepers conference season, we covered some ground in the Thursday night meeting.

A new element introduced is the time between 7:15 to 7:28 where we divided into four groups (by badge color). The logistics, administration, Ambassadors & Church/Community teams broke out in separate rooms, enabling captains to confer with the separate teams to bring up to date on any specific concerns or questions

We are encouraging our captains who have made little progress in their recruitment that it's time to move... all of the teams members are here to help and serve, so for all involved, be sure to offer any help or suggestions we can provide. Fundamentally, we are all recruiters.

The sooner we get our teams in order, the quicker we can turn our attention to promotion and church visits to expedite the eventual sell-out we are expecting in Nashville. To date, registrations are being filled at a brisk pace not only in Nashville, but with seven conferences, all are experiencing significant momentum!

We really need to make a major push to get as many people to the Power-Up Rally and Ambassador Training as possible; especially those serving in a leadership capacity need to be there. Encourage your captains to attend whether they have already been Ambassador trained or not. Promise Keepers will be filming the master training DVD which will be used all over the country to raise up a new group of Ambassadors moving forward.

We are punting the meeting on (Thursday) 5-31-07 since the Power-Up Rally and Ambassador Training fall on the following two days. Our next scheduled meeting after that is June 14'th (37 days to conference).

We need your ideas to devise a plan to raise funds for administrative expenses. The two biggest items are postage for the volunteer assignment packet mail-outs and any RAP (registration assistance plan) scholarship needs that Denver makes us aware of (they will administer the plan, but are no longer funding it).

Other needs include recruitment of a Pastoral Relations Coordinator and more specifics regarding the community outreach project in June.

Our special guest tonight was Brad Stine, sharing the platform at all seven Promise Keepers conferences. Brad shared his heart about putting on the full armor of God (and not taking it off!) and how it is a privilege to go to battle with you. For the Executive team, we share the same sentiment: each of you are an encouragement and inspiration not only for the army of volunteers, but blessing the very heart of God.

Please know that each of you are doing an excellent job; God has something very special in store for all of us in July.

Brad also shared about the very first time he spoke a PK men's conference; what it means to be a man and how God has wired men - with masculinity - expressed as to the fullness of Christlikeness.

For more about Brad Stine, visit his blog! -- Brad Stine's Blog Nation -- and his passionate involvement with the ministry of GodMen where being a man, created in Gods image, is celebrated.

Brad Stine talks about GodMen on a KTIS interview (on the second segment) here.

Brad Stine interview with Promise Keepers' Steve Chavis here.

On the web: Brad Stine

This Thursday!

2007-05-07T17:20:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

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 73 days until Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. I look forward to visiting with you about the many exciting new developments since our last meeting on April 19'th.

Please plan to join us this Thursday:

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday May 10, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

We will have a very special surprise guest so you don't want to miss!

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:

Remember that the Luis Palau Nashville Festival will be at the riverfront downtown Friday and Saturday, May 19-20'th with fun for the entire family.

Promise Keepers Nashville Power-Up Rally at The People's Church Friday night June 1'st.

Promise Keepers National Ambassador Training event at The People's Church Saturday June 2'nd.

Let's support our brothers as we seek to reach the men of Middle Tennessee for Jesus Christ.

By His 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

There Is A "Flood'' Coming !

2007-05-05T00:03:00.000-06:00

Editor's note: This email came in and it was appropriate for edification and encouragement, particulary from the heart of a woman volunteering for the conference... permission granted to reproduce in part...

Greetings Friends,

Well it's almost here and my, how the excitement is building in the wake of The "Flood" that is about to hit Nashville and this is a flood that we are looking forward to. I can sense a stirring in my spirit already as we are preparing for this conference. If it is like it has been in years past, then get ready because lives will be turned upside down and inside out for the cause of Christ for the sake of the call.

As I said earlier, God has been dealing with me on some things as of late to get me prepared for what is coming so I have determined in my heart to realign myself with the Word and take my rightful position in Christ.

I think back to a message that was preached at our Campmeeting last year about positioning yourself in Christ and that is so important that we make sure that we are in the position to be used of the Lord when called upon.

I know we have all been extremely busy diligently working in our prospective positions but the Word says "Be not weary in well doing for in due season we shall reap if we do not faint!"

The labor that we go through is worth it if just one soul comes into the Kingdom.

If you are not already involved in the [Nashville Promise Keepers] Conference I spoke of earlier why not consider coming out and being a part of this gathering ?

It will take place at the Nashville Arena on July 20th and 21st. Could use some extra help on the evening of the 19th if you can to help get things set up and ready to go for opening day.

God bless you for all that you do !

Blessings.

Michele

National PK Office will be off-hook

2007-05-04T07:37:00.000-06:00

Don't Panic - The National PK Office will be off-the-hook until Monday at noon

Everyone,

I hope this note finds that all is well with you and yours. Don't forget about our Nashville Leadership team meeting next Thursday, May 10 at Lee Company as we will have a very special guest with us.

As some of you know, Promise Keepers has sold their current building that has served as the home for the ministry for the past 17 years. As of noon today, they begin physically moving out of their office building and into their new facility 20 miles down the road (still in Denver).

This means the phone lines will be off the hook just Friday only - the web site is still functional (and registrations are still being processed!) Internally, the Denver staff may or may not have any internet access or e-mail with anyone that has a "pknet.org" address until hopefully sometime Monday (keep your fingers crossed and pray hard). In naval submariner lingo at least communications wise, we are "going dark" for a few hours.

So, don't panic. All is well; this is just a necessary part of the move.

By His 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

Six major reasons men attend a Promise Keepers conference

2007-04-26T13:14:00.000-06:00

Based on research from exit surveys of PK attendees, there are six major reasons men attend a Promise Keepers conference:

1 – Worship: The PK music engages the heart of man and provides the opportunity to worship in a corporate setting of thousands of other men, which creates a unique, often life changing experience. The vocal range of the songs is pitched toward deeper voices, thus the singing is different than the typical mixed-gender, female oriented church setting.

2 – Fellowship: Taking the time to travel and attend with other Christian men allows men to focus on spiritual matters in the company of fellow pilgrims. The unity of purpose and aligned attitudes of the men accommodates an enhanced awareness of God’s presence. Men, typically isolated, are spiritually and personally refreshed by participating with a multitude of men pursuing their faith.

3 – Speakers: Men need to be challenged and directed without feeling guilty. National authors, leaders and speakers address guys directly, with exceptional candor, often telling personal stories of struggle, defeat and victory. Men want to hear from strong men, and Promise Keepers events, while they are not gatherings of perfect men, do challenge men with authority and integrity to strive to the next level of holiness within the 7 Promises (with the help of the Holy Spirit).

4 – Evangelism: PK offers men the opportunity to bring their sons, family, friends, and co-workers to a “non-church,” non- threatening environment where they can hear the Gospel Message in a masculine context, taking them beyond a desire to just “do better.” Such environments for men to encounter their Heavenly Father and the grace of Jesus Christ are RARE!

5- Connectivity: An innate desire in all of us is to belong to a cause that is bigger than ourselves. PK offers men the opportunity to become part of the greater work of God through the men’s movement.

6 – Experience: The challenge to set aside the time to go, the adventure of the road trip, the magnitude of the event, and the support of wives create a catalytic event, a milestone on life’s journey for men that has a remarkable and lasting impact.

- Rick Wright | Promise Keepers

10 Ways to get your buddy to a PK Event

2007-04-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

1. Buy him a ticket. When you tell a guy that you already dropped some money, he is more likely to come… and you can get a group discount for groups of 10 or more.

2. Tell him you’ll take him to lunch on Saturday afternoon after the conference. Guys almost never pass up a free lunch. We actually decided to end the conference by 1:00 so you can do just that.

3. Ask your buddy if he understands his wife’s heart. When he’s done laughing, tell him we’ve got a whole section on just that. He’ll leave the event with new eyes for his wife, and surprisingly enough, his wife might be attracted to him as well.

4. Show him the promo DVD and give him a brochure. Don’t have one? Call 866.PROMISE and we’ll send you one. (OR view the video here)

5. Take a road trip to the conference. There’s nothing quite like cramming five guys in a car filled with junk food, and great conversation. Map? We don’t need no stinkin’ map.

6. Ask him if he thinks Noah’s Ark is real. He’ll probably say something like “well, not really… maybe. It’s kind of a far-fetched story. I’m not sure what I believe.” We’re not saying that our main speaker, Bob Cornuke, found Noah’s Ark, but we’ll show you some pretty amazing things that will challenge your buddy (and you) to decide…

7. Tell him you’ll buy him a PK hat. It’s not really bribery, because once your buddy experiences PK, he’ll probably want to buy one for himself, and his son, and his cousin, Bruce.

8. Tell your buddy that Reggie Dabbs is the Emcee and that alone is worth the effort.

9. Blindfold him, put him in the car and say, “There are 14,999 guys waiting for you down at the Nashville Arena. It’s my job to make sure you don’t let them down.”

10. Ask him to go with you. (sounds too simple, huh?)

TONIGHT! Promise Keepers Volunteer Leadership Mtg

2007-04-19T07:31:00.000-06:00

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday April 19, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

Larry Whittlesey will conduct our volunteer training!

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.

Virginia Tech | In Memoriam

2007-04-19T07:17:00.000-06:00

Promise Keepers joins a grieving country over the loss of life and injury to others on the campus of Virginia Tech, where evil manifested itself so profoundly. The powerful impact of this horrific event reaches to all segments of society. It stirs various feelings within each of us from compassion and support, to anger and blame, to reflection and thoughts about our own mortality.

Read the rest of the article from Promise Keepers.

In Memoriam Virginia Tech web site.

Pray, Prayer & Praying!

2007-04-16T15:26:00.000-06:00

A note from dave fourman, Prayer Coordinator, Promise Keepers 2007 - Nashville...

Three important prayer topics for your consideration!

1) A “to do” for the Promise Keepers Leadership Team Meeting and Training;
2) Prayer Requests;
3) National Day of Prayer

Promise Keepers Leadership Team Meeting and Training

We would like for you to bring your favorite scripture verse(s), written on a slip of paper or index card, to this Thursday’s meeting (April 19th). In case you are wondering why we are asking you to do this; we like the suspense and will let you know during the meeting. If you are not able to attend the meeting please feel free to email me your scripture verse(s). Example: Psalms 127:1, "Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good." (NLT)

Prayer Requests

We want to insure that the volunteers, leadership, and all things related to the Nashville Promise Keepers event have an appropriate under girding of prayer. [Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6.]

To that end please feel free to email me any prayer requests related to you and your family (health, travel, career, etc). Also feel free to email me if you are aware of any needs related to the event or preparation for the event that you feel warrant prayer. Unless you ask for confidentiality, please assume that prayer requests will be shared with intercessory prayer warriors.

National Day of Prayer

Thursday, May 3rd is the National Day of Prayer. There are a host of different events planned for that day. It would be great as men of faith and Promise Keepers - for participation to be conspicuous in your community with your family and churches.

To find an event in your area, visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org. If you are in downtown Franklin, Tennessee, around midday May 3rd, please join the event at monument square. “Fill the Square with Prayer” will take place there from noon until 1 pm CST.

That’s all for now; see you Thursday!

For His glory,

dave fourman

Prayer Coordinator
Promise Keepers 2007 - Nashville

E-mail at drfourman@aol.com

photo credit: Wayne Armstrong Nashville 2005

Greetings from Larry Whittlesey

2007-04-12T12:40:00.000-06:00

I'm looking forward to coming your way! The Nashville Team is setting the standard for the other teams around the country. Thank you for all you're doing and have already done to make PK Nashville 2007 a success. We want to come alongside of you and your efforts to reach your community. Promise Keepers is just one small part of that puzzle, but we're anxious to be an asset to the local churches in your area. If there's anything we can do to assist you in your ministries, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

I arrive in town on Tuesday night (April 17th), and am hoping to fill my time with meaningful connections across the community. If you know of meetings, ministries, or individuals that I should try to connect with next Wednesday, Thursday or Friday please let me know ASAP.

503-475-1592

E-mail at LarryWhittlesey@pknet.org

My purpose is to learn more about what is already going on in your community and to make sure folks are aware of the PK conference this July. I'm certainly open to any opportunity to help you recruit your volunteers or promote the conference.

God bless you all. You are an incredible group, and it is definitely my privilege to serve with you on behalf of the men who will attend this life-changing conference and the families, churches, and communities they represent. I'll look forward to seeing many of you next week!

Serving the Original Promise Keeper,

Larry R. Whittlesey
Promise Keepers - Event Director
503-475-1592

E-mail at LarryWhittlesey@pknet.org

Next Promise Keepers Volunteer Leadership Mtg April 19'th

2007-04-12T12:27:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

It is an honor and a privilege to serve with you as we prepare to host over 13,000 men for a fresh encounter with the Holy Spirit at the Nashville Arena July 20-21'st. As of today, there are only 99 days until Promise Keepers Nashville 2007. I look forward to visiting with you about the many exciting new developments since our last meeting on March 29'th.

Please plan to join us next Thursday:

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday April 19, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

Larry Whittlesey will be in town to conduct our volunteer training!

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.

Remember that the National Day of Prayer is coming up on Thursday, May 3'rd with events going on all day at Brentwood Baptist Church.

The Luis Palau Nashville Festival will be in town Saturday May 14'th with fun for the entire family.

Let's support our brothers as we seek to reach the men of Middle Tennessee for Jesus Christ.

By His 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

Volunteering - A Real Blessing

2007-04-06T17:26:00.000-06:00

From PK Nashville 2005 Photo by Kerry Woo

"It's contagious."

That's one way to describe being a volunteer at a Promise Keepers men's conference.

"There are a group of eight women from Rhode Island who drove to the Albany, N.Y. event and stayed in a hotel on their own dime, just to be a part of the Promise Keepers volunteer team," said Thom Tougas, Promise Keepers' national director of Event Services. "The year before, they served at the Long Island conference."

On a recent conference call with Thom and his team, two of his lieutenants, Patrick McKinney and Larry Whittlesey, seemed almost giddy over the fun they have organizing legions of enthusiastic volunteers.

Read more of "Volunteering - A Real Blessing" here

RELATED LINKS:

Volunteer Home Page

Volunteer Job Descriptions

Online Volunteer Registration

A Word from PK President Tom Fortson

2007-04-03T14:18:00.000-06:00

April 3, 2007

My wife and I were planning for our vacation this year and we wanted to do something different. A friend suggested “river rafting.” Exploring this option, I discovered that:

Rivers are rated using roman numerals I to VI according to the International Scale of River Difficulty. A river's level of challenge changes with fluctuations in water levels; a river rated Class IV at medium water levels might resemble a Class III river at lower water levels, while at higher levels, it might look more like a Class IV+.

Veteran rafters thrive on class III and IV rivers. Exploring further, I read that when booking your rafting trip, make sure you let the outfitter know your comfort and experience level so they can recommend the right trip for you.

Here is what I also found:

Class I
Easy - Waves small, passages clear; no serious obstacles.

Class II
Medium – Rapids of moderate difficulty with passages clear. Suitable for everyone.

Class III
Moderate – Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks; eddies; rapids with passages clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering.

Class IV
Difficult – Long rapids; waves powerful, irregular; dangerous rocks; boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required.

Class V
Extremely Difficult – Exceedingly difficult, long and violent rapids, following each other almost without interruption;, riverbed extremely obstructed; big drops; violent currents; very steep gradient. Paddlers should have prior Class IV or better whitewater experience.

Class VI
Unrunnable! - Just like it says – Don’t even think about it!

Sometimes in life, God does not give you or me the option of selecting our rivers, the raft, or the people in it. He just tells us to get on board and strap down. He then uses the strong and constant pressures to show us His all-sufficient strength and grace more effectively than if we were just riding on Class I and II. Often, there is no better way to learn rich, deep faith than to experience Class IV and V.

Where are you now? What about Class VI? No way you say! “Don’t even think about it.” Knowing God, if He is going to make you and me more like His Son Jesus Christ and impact more people, expect some runs down life’s river of “Class VI.” If He doesn’t take you, be prepared to encourage someone who has been through this run and could use your helping hand.

Ephesians 3:20-21
Your brother in Christ,

Dr. Tom Fortson
President/CEO

Greetings from Mike Harmon

2007-04-03T08:17:00.000-06:00

Thank you to the Executive Leadership team, all the Ambassadors and soon to be Ambassadors in the greater Nashville area! I hear great things about the team that God has assembled to impact your community and specifically the men of the Nashville/Middle Tennessee region.

Though I have not had the pleasure of meeting you all yet, I wanted you to know I'm praying for you as you serve faithfully, in recruit teams of guys and gals that will make up the volunteer task force for the Nashville Conference.

It is my desire to accompany Chuck Schneider on his next trip into the area. I look forward to meeting you all and serving with you in this great work of GOD!

To say we could not do this massive outreach with out your help is an understatement, we are grateful for your answering the master's call to expand HIS Kingdom by way of PK Nashville 2007! Volunteer networks are essential, as you well know, to any Promise Keeper events success and you all are the critical link to PK and the conduit The Lord uses, through your testimonies and influence in your Jerusalem, in getting many onboard.

Thank you hardly seems adequate to express our heartfelt gratitude. I know your investment of time, talent and treasure, has and will continue to reap eternal dividends in the lives of men and their families for generations to come. I also know this goes up to The Lord as a sweet smelling sacrifice pleasing to HIM, so again THANK YOU!!!

Blessings,

MIKE HARMON

Regional Field Director
- Central U.S. Region -

214-556-1032 - Office
765-506-7933 - Cell

---

Contact Mike via email here

Testimonies From the Road in 2005... Nashville, TN

2007-03-31T23:50:00.000-06:00

Revisiting Promise Keepers 2005:

"The Awakening - An Unpredictable Adventure"

at the Gaylord Entertainment Center, Aug 12-13 2005

Nashville photo by veteran PK photographer Wayne Armstrong
_____

I attended my first Promise Keepers conference in Nashville and had a wonderful experience while there. I learned how to be a better father, husband and Christian. I will be attending more PK conferences in the future. I never thought that 13,000 men could sound that good singing. I was definitely wrong.

Dana
Altoona, AL
_____

I have an incredible testimony to share about this weekend in Nashville. It was just absolutely glorious. The Lord moved and worked in my heart, my soul and my life so much! I was blessed by the Lord to become real close friends in just 2 days with a guy that I didn't know that I rode the bus with. By the time we left last night it was like we had known each other all our lives. God is so good! Glory to his high and holy name! He is worthy to be praised and I love him so much. I thank God for all my brothers in the Lord - what a blessing they are to me. I thank God for Promise Keepers, too. God is using you all in a mighty, wonderful and powerful way and I thank Him and praise Him for that. God bless you all richly.

Darrell
Oneida, KY
_____

Thank you PK for coming to Nashville. I was a volunteer security guard at the event. This was my first visit to a PK event, although it will not be my last. I did not expect to receive as big of a blessing as I received. I was thinking it would be more work than pleasure. I was wrong. I now have a whole new outlook on things, especially my family. I do not have enough room or time to tell you how awesome it was. Please try to take every one you can to this event. You will be blessed by God. On Friday night 100+ people got saved. I have not found out about Saturday yet. I know the altar was filled with twice as many people. Thank you God!

Darrell
Lebanon, TN
_____

This year's conference in Nashville was another one out of the park! We brought 14 guys up from Thomaston, GA and half were first time attendees. This morning (Sunday) one of the guys that come with us from another church called us to let us know that he had called his wife this morning and for the first time in 6 months they were going to church together. We found out while at the conference that they had been separated. This conference touched him like no I have ever seen. To the man God has brought a refreshed awakening into their lives and I am thankful for the new men that have come back to our church family and their families. Great job!

We have 6 more guys going to Orlando and I will be there to help minister to them. Promise Keepers has been a faithful partner to me as a Pastor.

Thank You, and I look forward to PK returning to Atlanta in 2006.

Tommy
Thomaston, GA
_____

I would like to thank three members of your organization. I do not remember their names but they will know who they are. They are from the Hopkinsville, KY area.

On Saturday, Aug. 13, 2005, my family and I were traveling back from vacation in Myrtle Beach. After deciding to continue traveling home (thus not stopping overnight in Nashville), at approx. 6:00pm, we had a blowout on Highway 24. No sooner than we had pulled onto the shoulder, three promise keepers pulled behind our vehicle, changed our tire, gave us directions to the nearest tire store, told us the limitations of the "doughnut spare", gave us a map for reference and basically turned a stressful situation into something positive.

In a world that so much is written about the negatives that exist, it enthuses me to write about the positive influence that your organization promotes. Please keep it up and know that our family is committed to "passing it forward" to the next person that is in need.

Jay
St. Peters, MO
_____

I was at the Nashville event and had spoken to my wife just before the Saturday meeting and she seemed a bit out of it as she is a type one diabetic. I told her to get a bite to eat and I would call her back. Well, in the middle of the first speaker's message I felt that something was just not quite right. I finished listening to the speaker (Buddy Owens: "Hearing God's Voice") on hearing God speak to you. I tried to call my wife and was unable to get her on either phone. Worried, I called information to get my neighbor's phone number to call them as I was about 15 to 20 min from home. Information was unable to find their number so I knew then I was going to have to leave the event and go home as my wife could be in bad shape and my two-year-old daughter may also be up and out of her bed wandering around the house.

I called 911 on my way home and made it home before the ambulance could arrive. I found my wife still in bed and her blood sugar low. My daughter was playing in her room and my neighbor took her as the ambulance arrived. My wife was given some attention by the ambulance and her sugar levels were brought back to a safe level and she was fine.

During the speaker's presentation he talked about having an older person that would hold me accountable. I thought of a man that I work with, and had planned on speaking with him on Monday. Well, after my wife was back to normal my Nextel went off and it was the man I had planned on speaking to on Monday calling me for a computer emergency. I asked if he had a few moments to talk and asked him if he would hold me accountable. He was honored and accepted. I was also able to bring a public school back online the weekend before school started so teachers and administrators could continue to prepare for the first day of school.

I do believe that God was speaking to me that day, and due to what was said by the speaker I was able to hear Him and act upon what God wanted me to do.

Michael
Nashville, TN
_____

I've been attending PK events since 1994. The just-completed Nashville event was one of the BEST! The speakers challenged each of us. My Christian brothers and I talked all the way home, opening up and revealing our hearts to one another in ways that we'd not done before. The Lord has used PK to CHANGE MY LIFE. I praise GOD for the continued good work that is done through PK, drawing men back to a passionate relationship with Jesus Christ!

David
Flemingsburg, KY
_____

I had several people that I work with try to talk me out of attending, and they were Christians no less. I almost had myself talked out of going. I just knew that I was not going to get anything out of it, let alone have a good time.

I am so glad that GOD gave me the strength to resist the temptation to not go! I re-dedicated my life to Christ, to my wife and to my children. Now I know that I can and will be a better husband and father, as well as a Christian. I will definitely attend again. Thank you so much.

Jeff
Sparta, TN
_____

I took my 16-year-old son to the Nashville event this past weekend. What an awesome bonding experience! We laughed, we cried, we worshipped, we prayed, we hugged -- and most of all we TALKED!

Randy
Snellville, GA
_____

I was blessed to attend Promise Keepers in Nashville this last weekend with my younger brother, who is a minister in Kentucky. This was my first time to attend, and at 57 I am a relatively new true believer. This was one of the most powerful experiences of my life and I just wanted to thank the many people who make this ministry work and to let you know I will be a lifetime supporter. Also, I am contacting clients and friends in Raleigh to line up attending with them next year. God bless you real good!

Larry
Nashville, TN
_____

The stage set-up this year was great. The three panels that raised and tilted for the worship time, the side panels with the song words, the panels behind the band - they all worked well, looked good, and were utilized well with all the video and background visuals. An excellent job by the stage design folks this year...

This was my 12th year and 16th conference and I enjoyed it very much. I was able to get about 30 guys from my church to go - most of them for the first time. This was, by far, the largest group I've been able to take over the years. They are all looking forward to next year in Atlanta. It is finally catching on. You guys are doing a great job...

Bruce
Huntsville, AL
_____

I just wanted to write a few things about the PK event this past weekend in Nashville, TN. What an awesome time of worship and refreshing, all the speakers were very open to share their defeats and their victories found in Christ. On Saturday morning I found myself re-commiting my life to Christ in a new way. Then, during the Saturday afternoon sessions, the Lord spoke to my heart and said "Just as you recommitted to Me this morning, you need to recommit yourself to your marriage and to your wife." So when I got back home on Saturday evening, I asked my wife to forgive me and I was recommitting my love to her and to our marriage.

I thank God for you PK - may God bless you and the speakers!

David
Portland, TN
_____

Learn more about attending one of Promise Keeper's upcoming men's conferences! Registration is available online.

We would love to hear from YOU! Tell us your story in the comment section below.

Meeting Recap for March 29 2007

2007-03-29T23:11:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

I have excellent news. As of today, we have surpassed a milestone in paid registrations which puts us past 1/3'rd of the way to being sold-out (and it's not even April yet). We also have 60% of our leadership team in place and ready to go with many more committments to report in the coming days.

*** UPDATE: Recruited!
Our two biggest needs to date are the Administration Recruiting Coordinator and the Logistics Recruiting Coordinator.
*** UPDATED: Saturday March 31

We still do not know about the needs for the retail piece, but hope to know soon. It appears that we will be fully recruited for all leadership positions by the time Larry Whittlesey returns on April 19'th for our Leadership Training; we also may be well on our way to having most of the supervisory positions recruited by then as well.

There was a great time of worship as we welcomed the Holy Spirit's presence with "Here I Am To Worship", "How Great Is Our God" and "How Great Thou Art". Indeed.

After the introductions and worship:

Dave led the prayer time as men gathered in groups of three for the following:

SPEAKERS: Reggie Dabbs, Brad Stine, Bob Cornuke, Adrian Despres, Joseph Garlington, Larry Jackson
MUSICIANS: PK7
NATIONAL STAFF MEMBERS: Larry Whittlesey, Chuck Schneider, Mike Harmon, Tom Fortson
CAPTAINS & INDIVIDUAL TEAMS
OUR WITNESS IN THE COMMUNITY (receptiveness from churches and men's ministry leaders)
PRAY FOR THE PROTECTION AND PRESENCE OF GOD
EFFORTS TO BRING UNSAVED MEN TO PROMISE KEEPERS
SPOUSES AND CHILDREN OF OUR TEAM (Protection, Sacrifice of Time, Putting on Christ)
VACANCIES IN THE VOLUNTEER TEAM (Administrative Recruiting Coordinator/Logistics Recruiting Coordinator)
SERVANT ATTITUDES FOR ALL (Let there be no egos among us)
PERCEPTION OF SPIRITUAL NEEDS OF THE TEAM
UNITY IN THE VOLUNTEER TEAM (May we be faithful to John 17)
GOD'S DIRECTION IN OUR PLANNING (Order our steps and direct our paths)

Tim provided the Volunteer Overview:
Volunteers can register online 2007 Volunteer Registration Form and view the job-descriptions at the PK Website.

Keith covered the Administration Group:
... Volunteer data updates will be provided on a weekly basis to the leaders; status and needs will be posted on this blog to assist in your recruitment efforts. It's important to provide Keith with up to date and accurate Information!

Scott covered the Logistics Group:
... if it can be stacked and packed, it's logistics! Also the scope besides facilities include Special Needs, Transportation, Exhibits, Pipe & Drape, Language Teams, Radio and Headquarters, Ushers and The PK All-Start Team (packets, gate monitors, etc.)

Ingram covered the Community Group:
... which includes a Pastor Relations Coordinator to reach ministers and pastors, the Prayer Team (led by Dave), the Media Team, Marketing and the Food Drive emphasis.

Rick covered the Ambassador Group:
What is an Ambassador? This is a Godly man who is willing to work with a few churches in his area to serve and assist the local church and help resource the Men’s Ministry of their church, and help to connect with PK.
More info on being an Ambassador for PK here!

Keith covered the Volunteer & Leadership Forms:
(The Volunteer Leadership Agreement Form requires your signature and your spouse's signature (if married). Please review it, complete where indicated, and mail the original Attn: Tim to the address on the form.)

There are leadership positions still open in the Administration, Logistics, Community and the Ambassador Groups and key supervisory personnel for those teams that already have leadership in place.

The Ambassador Group captains are in place (EV Team is fully recruited), with concentration needed on the Ambassador Booth Team role.

Note: encourage the guys who aren't Ambassadors to attend the Ambassador Rally and Training on June 1-2 at The People's Church. There are also numerous supervisory positions for Ambassadors in other areas. It's worth noting too that 8 of our 20 team leaders are current Ambassadors.

Note that there is a volunteer hotline number (615-319-7150) displayed prominently on the sidebar to the right. For volunteers, there is an area in the sidebar with the name of each leader (& the team they lead) where volunteers can click on it and generate an out-going e-mail to that leader for questions. The leader will respond or delegate the questions to the appropriate captain for the precise information needed!

Last, pray that God would raise up the right people to lead our teams and for the leadership of Promise Keepers and the planning process going forward.

It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve with each one of you!

By His 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

TONIGHT !

2007-03-26T23:20:00.000-06:00

Note that all important meetings or flashes of important info will ALWAYS be at the top of the sidebar to the right.

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday March 29, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

PK 2007 Promo Video (3:16 minute version)

2007-03-23T22:22:00.001-06:00

Tools to Help Promote Your PK Event
These promotional tools are provided to you for no charge by Promise Keepers, so please feel free to download as much as you need and share it with others that believe in the message PK is bringing to men each year for your local men's ministry or congregational viewing / announcements. There are 30-second, 60-second and 3:16 Full Version available for download at: the PK Promotional Page.

To order a FREE DVD of the promo video, call 1-866-PROMISE (8am-8pm, M-F, MT). Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery.

Be sure to subscribe to the free Promise Keepers Channel on YouTube.com to see these videos and more!

PK 2007 Promo Video (1 minute version)

2007-03-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

I was too young to remember...

2007-03-22T23:55:00.000-06:00

I was too young to remember... my fathers first Promise Keepers, but I vividly remember the day he came home. Everything changed that day.

I could tell before he said anything. I could tell by the way he hugged my mother, and the way he walked into the room, and later, the way he said things are going to be different now.

I probably remember because things were different after that day. They remain different and better to this day.

My mother remembers my fathers confession that he had been a good father but a lousy husband, and his promise that it would get better. It meant the world to her and not just because it turned out to be true, but also because she was a woman of faith, and living with a man of little or no faith was hard on her every day.

After that my dad and brother went almost every year for several years, and it kept getting better.

As a daughter, I was jealous that I couldn't go with them, but I understood that part of what makes Promise Keepers special is the privacy and the fellowship of men; having a message targeted at men, knowing that all the other men are not trying to impress anyone standing next to them because they all know what is really going on. I know that helps, because my father told me it helps, and he is a Promise Keeper. It has made a difference in him for the betterment of our whole family, and I cannot thank everyone involved enough for that.

I am sure this is not the testimonial you were looking for, but I thought it might be nice for the men out there to know that the women who love them, love this program too. We love the difference it makes in you, and we respect it. At least my mother and I do. So, thank you Promise Keepers, thank you for giving my daddy a place to worship with other men in fellowship. And thank you daddy, for going, and...just thank you.

I'm going to try not to cry now, because that is the affect it has had on me.

Casey
La Verne, California

FROM: PK e-newsletter for May, 2005 - Promise Keepers

Photo source: www.kuleuven.be

PK Coming to Nashville - WKRN News Feature

2007-03-20T22:49:00.000-06:00

WKRN, the ABC affiliate here in Nashville (Channel 2) ran a news feature today (3/20/07) about Promise Keepers coming to the Nashville Arena. Produced by WKRN's Faith and Ethics Video Journalist Jamey Tucker, the video and story can be viewed via the viewer "Men Of Integrity Movement Plans To Visit Nashville" at Jamey Tucker's blog - Faith and Ethics.com

Jamey writes:

Promise Keepers is on a smaller scale than it was in the mid-90s when men filled up stadiums around the country to hear real men talk about God, responsibility, character and integrity. The national organization is not as large as it was back then and instead of stadiums, Promise Keepers comes to arenas where they consistently attract 15,000-25,000 men.

Back when PK started, churches pretty much ignored men in the church. Sure, some had a monthly "fellowship breakfast" with a guest speaker and pancakes, but church was absolutely geared toward women folk. PK was the first "men's movement" of this generation.

PK isn't a political rally. You'll find political conservatives and liberals arm-in-arm. Presbyterians, Methodists, Church of Christ, Catholics, Lutherans, Baptists, and Orthodox all worshipping together. It's pretty cool that way.

WKRN - PK Comes to Nashville

A Mandate for Mentoring

2007-03-20T09:47:00.000-06:00

PK Spotlight:
"A Mandate for Mentoring"

This Promise Keepers Spotlight featuring Dr. Howard Hendricks was recorded at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colorado in 1993.

Winners Invest in People

2007-03-16T00:28:00.000-06:00

As we prepare to build our teams to serve at Promise Keepers Nashville, I am reminded of the wisdom of my good friend, mentor, and author, Ed Rowell. In his book, "Go The Distance," Ed shares about the importance of investing in people:

• Winners invest in others because someone invested in them.
• When someone believes in us, before we even believe in ourselves, it changes us forever.
• Winners know that the only investment they can make that will have value in heaven is the investment we make in people for the sake of God's kingdom.
• Winners see people as they could be, not who they presently are.

How to scope them out:

1. Find people who work hard
2. Find people with whom we have credibility
3. Find people who are willing to dream
4. Find people who have influence
5. Find people who value character as well as accomplishment
6. Find people who can work on a team

Ed Rowell is the Senior Pastor of Tri-lakes Chapel in Colorado Springs, Colorado as well as an author and lecturer on the topic of leadership. Formerly, he was the teaching pastor at The People's Church in Franklin, Tennessee.

- Tim Richards

God Wins Every Battle...

2007-03-14T07:51:00.000-06:00

Now a momentary pause for your entertainment...

The retelling of the David and Goliath story set to Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" by "The Apologetix"

Hat tip: Jamie @ Faith & Ethics.com

Next Promise Keepers Volunteer Leadership Mtg March 29'th

2007-03-13T00:33:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone,

It is and honor and a privilege to serve with you as we labor together on behalf of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at this year’s Promise Keepers Conference in Nashville. Words cannot describe how excited and blessed I am to be journeying with you over the next twenty weeks as we lay the groundwork in preparation for the miracle that God is doing in the lives of the men and families in our community. In spite of the storms, many of you were in attendance for our vision casting meeting back on March 1'st.

As we speak, our God is already moving in the hearts of the men He’s drawing near. Our role is simply to create and sustain the best possible conditions through this event for the Holy Spirit to do His work. For those who freely accept Christ gift of grace at Promise Keepers Nashville, their lives and the lives of their families will forever be changed. Marriages and families will be restored, wounds will be healed, and mighty warriors will be gained for the cause of Christ. For many men, it will be an opportunity to make a fresh start, to recommit and refocus to live true to their calling and to reengage in the battle. For still others, the conference will provide a much needed dose of refreshment and encouragement to stay in the battle.

As your local event director, my desire is to cover you and your efforts in prayer, to be a source of aid and encouragement to you, and to provide you with the information and the tools necessary to assist you in your role. My role is to serve you to optimize the effectiveness and results of your work. Many of you served with us in 2005 and recall the awesome move of God that took place. For others, this will be your first time with us to experience the blessing. I look forward to getting to know each of you better, to hear your story, and to be energized by our shared commitment to this awesome ministry.

Everyone, I can’t emphasize enough how important prayer and personal worship time with the Lord will be in sustaining you in the days leading up to the conference. Simply put, we cannot succeed without it. If we labor yet do not grow in our spiritual walk as a result of this shared experience, then we will have truly missed out on God’s best for us.

Our next volunteer leadership team meeting will be held Thursday, March 29'th at 6:30 PM at Lee Company in Cool Springs. MapQuest

At this meeting, we will assemble to worship, pray, and review the job descriptions for each of the leaders of the conference teams. Be in prayer now for where the Lord would have you serve.

You will note the link on the blog to sign up as a volunteer so we can capture your contact information to get you into the database. This blog will be the definitive source for volunteer information and updates for our conference:

Please bookmark: www.PKNashville.blogspot.com

Please direct anyone you know that may have an interest in serving to contact us at our e-mail address: PKNashville2007@aol.com

Don't forget that the early registration deadline for the special $59 admission ends on March 15'th so let the men's ministry leaders in your churches know to save $20/man, they need to order by Thursday.

Let the adventure begin!

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

PROMISE KEEPERS LEADERSHIP MEETING

Thursday March 29, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

Mark Your Calendars!

2007-03-12T09:05:00.000-06:00

Nashville PK guys enter blogosphere

2007-03-12T08:22:00.000-06:00

Promise Keepers has given the Nashville/Middle Tennessee Volunteer Team a shout out on the national home page noting our use of technology (for God's Glory) to inform, inspire, encourage and provide local leadership to the various volunteer teams. These teams under the four main areas - Administration, Logistics, Community and Ambassadors - will be assembling over the coming days.

Look for an announcement this week on this PKNashville blog - and keep not only the Nashville leadership team in prayer, but those teams being assembled in other conference cities - Mobile, Alabama; San Antonio, Texas; Orlando, Florida; Columbia, South Carolina; Cincinnati, Ohio and Fresno, California.

Clap * Clap * Clap* to the guys and gals back at Promise Keepers Denver - we appreciate your support and passion!

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us..." Hebrews 12:1

Speakers Lineups announced

2007-03-08T14:06:00.000-06:00

The speaker lineups are posted for each conference city including Nashville (pictured above)

REGISTER TODAY to take advantage of the $20 Discount* Through March 15 (Thursday)
(Regularly $79, now $59)

* Discount applies to Adult registrations only.

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Steven - Albertville, AL attending last year in Atlanta writes:

This was my sixth Promise Keepers event and, once again, I was amazed by the love and passion for God by Godly men. I was fortunate to take a teen from our church, and he has already decided he wants to to go again next year to Nashville and take his father and brother.

Jack - Ringgold, VA attending last year in Raleigh writes:

I gave my life to Christ at a Promise Keepers event in Lynchburg, Va in 2000. I attended my 6th event this year in Raleigh N.C. That day, I gave my life to Christ along with over 500 other men changed my life forever and to witness 288 men come to Christ in Raleigh this year touched my heart. I'm sure those guys will never forget that day, but they need our prayers! May the Lord continue to bless and work through Promise keepers in the years to come. THANK YOU PROMISE KEEPERS!!

2007 Volunteer Registration Now Open!

2007-03-08T11:43:00.000-06:00

Photo: Kerry Woo

Nearly 800 people ensure the success of each conference in 75 positions.

For detailed job descriptions, click here for areas such as Volunteer Deployment, Registration Help Center, Prayer Teams, Retail, Evangelism, Ushers and more.

There are four methods to register to volunteer at the Nashville conference. Click HERE for the registration page. Mailing or faxing in the form is great, but the online version is more efficent and allows us on the local leadership database team to process your area of choice much faster!

Here's a link for a printable PDF form to print and distribute among your circles of influence.

For more information and FAQ's visit the Promise Keepers Volunteer Page

Tommy - Thomaston, GA volunteering last year in Atlanta writes:

Working as a volunteer gave me a look at the conference from a different perspective than coming to attend for myself. I would encourage anyone to give of themselves at least one time as a servant. I am as tired as I can possibly be but I had the time of my life. I hope to do this again, if given the chance. I was blessed by every man that I was able to meet and talk to from all over the many areas and states. May God continue to bless Promise Keepers and their dedicated staff. Thank You to PK for letting me serve.

Facts and Realities

2007-03-08T08:33:00.000-06:00

FACT: Promise Keepers has reached over 5 million men since 1990 with 89% ministry recognition among evangelicals.

FACT: There are currently over 40 million men yet to hear the PK message and there are over 22 million boys in the "Y" generation.

REALITIES:
There are now over 80 men's ministries nationwide

In Sunday Services: 61% female, 39% male

90% of young men being raised in church will leave

90% of men say they believe in God

83% of men call themselves Christians

Only 33% of men attend church

Few churches are able to establish or maintain a vibrant men's ministry

Men want to meet in:
- Bible studies once per week
- Local communities four times a year
- National conferences once a year

If the man in the house is a Christian, there is a 93% chance the rest of the family will become Christians

Promise Keepers' Vision

2007-03-08T07:58:00.000-06:00

Larry Whittlesey, Promise Keepers' Event Director and Chuck Schneider, National Field Director shared the vision and outlined the 2007 Promise Keepers program and volunteer effort for this year.

One of the key points communicated was engaging the men attending. The mission has not changed: "Promise Keepers is dedicated to igniting and uniting men to be passionate followers of Jesus Christ through the effective communication of the 7 Promises." The vision has been sharpened after seventeen years of ministry since 1990 when PK first began, reaching more than five and a half million men participating at conferences and countless more reached through books, music CDs, multi-media resources, the Internet, satellite and radio broadcasts.

[Promise Keepers has] refocused our message from merely calling men to a life of integrity to now actively calling, encouraging, and equipping men to act on their integrity. We are restructuring our organization to help men not only make the right promises, but to keep them by actively applying biblical principles to their lives and by serving those around them.

VISION: To be the Leading and Most Relevant Voice to Men and Men's Issues World Wide

CLICK FOR MORE

Meet, Greet & See the New PK tonight

2007-03-01T15:43:00.000-06:00

Larry and Chuck discussing Promise Keeper's return to Nashville with Jamey Tucker, WKRN (ABC affiliate) Faith & Ethics reporter. View Jamey's blog at: www.faithandethics.com

Larry Whittlesey, Promise Keepers' Event Director and Chuck Schneider, National Field Director will be holding an introductory meeting for all those interested tonight to outline the Promise Keepers program and volunteer effort for this year. Here's the information:

PROMISE KEEPERS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION MEETING

Thursday March 1, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

Ask a Promise Keeper's Wife

2007-02-26T11:55:00.000-06:00

"If you want to know what's good about Promise Keepers, ask a Promise Keepers' wife."

That's the old slogan of PK from the early days of 1996. It's still true today. PK gives a man the means and opportunity to re-focus on things that are truly important, including his relationship with his wife and kids. The person who is closest to him sees the change.

PK is more than a terrific two-day worship experience. It combines soul-searching with a call to action. Coming back from a PK event, most men re-dedicate themselves to a new level of accountability for their behavior, as well as a commitment to seek God's purpose in their lives.

These things could happen in an ordinary church context, but they usually don't. To really "catch fire" men need to see and feel the energy of God at work in a large assembly of other men. That's what a PK conference does.”

- Central Presbyterian Church, Baltimore, Maryland

“I knew that all the spiritual benefits my husband received at Promise Keepers would overflow to me. How could they not? Is not his honor my honor? His integrity my integrity? Are not his blessings my blessings?”

- Judy, Onova, Iowa

Promotional Resources now available

2007-02-26T09:52:00.000-06:00

There are download camera-ready bulletin inserts and posters now availble for all confrence cities inclusing Nashville. Just select the appropriate conference and then download the PDF file.

Nashville, TN / July 20-21

Available are:

Color Insert (2 MB) | B/W Insert (355 KB) | Poster (4.6 MB)

Challenging Men to be Bold Followers of Jesus Christ

We will be holding an introductory meeting for all those interested this Thursday (March 1) to outline the Promise Keepers program and volunteer effort for this year. Here's the information:

PROMISE KEEPERS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION MEETING

Thursday March 1, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

Amazing Grace - Promise Keepers 1995

2007-02-19T18:29:00.000-06:00

...gospel artist Wintley Phipps explains the origin of "Amazing Grace" and leads an audience full of men singing this honored hymn as presented during the 1995 Promise Keepers conference at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC.

Promise Keepers Nashville 2007 Information Meeting

2007-02-18T21:24:00.000-06:00

Dear PK Friends,

As I’m sure you know Promise Keepers is returning to Nashville at the Gaylord Entertainment Center July 20-21, 2007! It will be my privilege to serve as the Event Director for this National Conference. In that regard, I am coming to Nashville in just two weeks, February 27-March 2, to review the logistic requirements for the event with the venue and to help organize the "Volunteer Leadership Team”.

I have been in contact with Tim Richards, who served as my Assistant Event Volunteer Director in 2005, and several others in the local area in anticipation of this first trip into your area. In addition I have identified and contacted a number of different ministry organizations & Christian businesses in the greater Nashville area, with hopes of establishing some type of connection on behalf of the PK in general, and the volunteer effort in particular. These groups include Christian Businessmen organizations, prayer networks, ministerial associations, denominational district offices, Christian radio stations, and other para-church organizations. If you know of "gatekeepers" within the larger Christian community, or key ministry organizations that PK should connect with, please let me know!!

I would love to meet as many of you as possible during my visit. We will be holding an introductory meeting for all those interested two week from today to outline the Promise Keepers program and volunteer effort for this year. Here's the information:

PROMISE KEEPERS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION MEETING

Thursday March 1, 2007
6:30 – 8:30 PM

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

MapQuest

I will arrive in town late Tuesday night and be staying at the LaQuinta Inn at the airport. Chuck Schneider, our National Field Ministry Director, will be joining me on Wednesday. I am working now on setting appointments for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday to meet with volunteer leaders, pastors, and other community contacts. I'd love to meet with you and/or others on an individual or group basis. Feel free to contact me via phone or email (listed below) and we'll see what we can work out!

Anything you can do to help us get the word out about this meeting would be appreciated. Announce it at your church, forward to this email to others, or make a few calls! We'd love to get a good turnout at this introductory meeting so that we can begin to form both our local Volunteer Leadership Team and our strategy for recruiting. Thank you in advance for your help!!

I know God is putting together something very special in Nashville this year! I hope you'll plan to be a part of the excitement. Please join us Thursday March 1st, if at all possible, and help us get the word out to others. I'm looking forward to visiting your community once again and renewing the relationship we established in 2005!

Serving the Original Promise Keeper,

Larry R. Whittlesey

Promise Keepers - Event Director

email - LarryWhittlesey@pknet.org

phone - 503-475-1592

A Servant Attitude

2007-02-16T19:27:00.000-06:00

Photo Credit: Wayne Armstrong/PK

OUR LIMITATIONS:

He doesn’t calculate what you did in ‘78.It’s not even on the record. Sure, there are lots of reasons why God shouldn’t have called us. But if we are magically in love with Him, if we hunger for Him more than our next breath, He’ll use us in spite of who we are, where we’ve been, or what we look like. I pray that as Christians, we will step out of our limitations into the illimitable nature of who God is. Then our passion for God and our passion to communicate Him will make mincemeat of our limitations.

Author unknown

Welcome to PK Nashville 2007

2007-02-16T16:41:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Promise Keepers Nashville 2007 blog!

This blog will serve as a communication point for the local executive team to rally volunteers; dispense news and information for the upcoming Promise Keepers Men's Conference at the Gaylord Entertainment Center, July 20-21 2007.

Visit the Promise Keepers web site for OFFICIAL information.

Please note that the views or opinions expressed in the comments (moderated) on this blog do not reflect the views or staff of Promise Keepers.

PROMISE KEEPERS is a registered trademark and service mark of Promise Keepers in the United States and other countries.