We Believe

ChurchA church is more than just a simple place to welcome God into your home and your life. It is a place that should also give you a total sense of security in every way. You should feel better about the community you live in, the world you are a part of, and the neighbors that you walk past each day. Many churches are able to provide this overall sense of being a part of something great, but none more so than Elmwood Chapel and others like it.

What You Will Find in a Church

Church Welcoming NeighborsWhen was the last time you truly felt as though you were not alone? When you find the right church, you will discover a congregation that truly wants you to feel welcomed into their family. They will not care about your past, where you come from, or who you may be. They will simply want to teach you about God and the Bible. This will enable you to grow socially, spiritually, and more.

As an added bonus for you, you will discover a place that you can go to worship without judgment or fear and where you can help your community become a better place for all. This is because many churches today get out into the community to try and help others. Can you think of a better experience than to be a part of something truly good?

It’s a Community Affair

Church Helping CommunityWhat would you do if your neighbors home burned to the ground? Most people, as individuals, would feel as though they could only help so much. However, if you are a part of a church, it becomes the job of the entire congregation to help out that family when they need it the most.
Prayers, money, supplies, and more can all be found within the church for those who need it the most. A family that has fallen on hard times because of injury or some other problem, can turn toward those who devote their lives to being good citizens. A park that is run down and dirty can be saved by the church and its devoted Christians. Food drives for homeless is also a popular thing for churches to get involved with because it helps those people who have nothing.

Are You Ready to Feel the Love?

God is all around us. We have only to look around and allow him to come into our lives and our hearts. To make it easier for you to discover what blessings God provides, you can attend a sermon and then take your knowledge out into the world where you can do good for all.
Most churches have sermons Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings, and Wednesday evening, with other times for special events or occasions. You do not have to attend all the sermons. Your presence is not required, but it is a joyful thing for all to see that you have arrived there. Are you ready to walk into the open arms of the church?

Local Businesses Help Local Charities

In Spring Hill, Florida, local small businesses play a crucial role in supporting the community, particularly when it comes to charity events and disaster relief efforts. These businesses, whether it’s a family-owned restaurant, a retail shop, or service providers like plumbers, often step up during times of need to contribute to charity events, church fundraisers, and relief efforts, making a meaningful impact on the local area. Their involvement helps foster a sense of unity and reinforces the importance of supporting one another in both good times and bad.

Local Church Congregations

Churches in Spring Hill frequently host charity events aimed at supporting local causes, from providing meals to those in need, to raising funds for medical bills, or assisting homeless shelters. Local businesses are often among the first to offer help, whether by donating products, services, or their time. For example, a local plumber in Spring Hill, FL, may contribute by offering free plumbing services to a church that’s hosting a community event, ensuring that the facilities are in good working order without the burden of additional costs. A local restaurant might provide food for a fundraiser, while a retail shop could donate items for raffles or auctions. These gestures, while simple, significantly contribute to the success of these events and ensure that more funds go toward the charitable cause. The involvement of small businesses in charity events also helps to raise awareness about the importance of giving back, inspiring others in the community to get involved.

Disaster Relief Charitable Contributions

When disaster strikes, such as during the hurricane season, local businesses in Spring Hill are often at the forefront of providing assistance to those affected. Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, and the damage caused by such storms can be devastating. Small businesses like plumbers, electricians, and construction companies are integral to disaster relief efforts, offering their services free of charge or at a discounted rate to help affected residents get back on their feet. For instance, plumbers spring hill fl, might offer emergency plumbing services to homeowners whose pipes have burst or whose systems have been damaged during a hurricane. These services are essential for residents to return to their homes safely and comfortably. Furthermore, businesses may donate supplies, such as food, water, or building materials, to shelters and relief centers, helping those who are displaced or in need of immediate support.

Small Business Spotlight

The actions of these small businesses go beyond just offering services—they help foster a strong sense of community and trust. By showing up during times of crisis and charity, local businesses earn the respect and loyalty of their customers. Residents of Spring Hill, knowing they can rely on local businesses in times of need, are more likely to continue supporting these businesses, creating a positive cycle of goodwill. Moreover, businesses that actively contribute to charity and disaster relief set a powerful example of social responsibility for other local enterprises and individuals.

In the long run, the support provided by local small businesses in Spring Hill strengthens the community. It helps create a network of mutual aid, where everyone, regardless of their background or financial status, can find assistance in times of need. Whether it’s through helping with a charity event at a local church or providing critical services during hurricane recovery, these businesses play an indispensable role in the fabric of the community. Their contributions not only make a tangible difference but also inspire a spirit of generosity that brings people together.

Easter Plans For Picnic & BBQs

Easter is a time of celebration and reflection, and many chapels and churches host a variety of events to mark the occasion. One of the most popular ways to celebrate is with an Easter picnic or cookout, bringing together the community to enjoy good food, fellowship, and the beginning of spring. These gatherings often feature outdoor activities, such as egg hunts for children, music, and family-friendly games, all set against the backdrop of a beautiful spring day. The food served at these events typically reflects the festive nature of the holiday, with a variety of traditional dishes and fresh seasonal offerings.

Cookout Plans

Cookouts at chapels and churches during Easter are typically casual affairs, where families and church members gather to share a meal outdoors. Popular foods include grilled items such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken, along with side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and deviled eggs. For dessert, you can expect sweet treats like Easter-themed cookies, pies, and cakes. In many cases, attendees will bring potluck-style dishes to share, adding variety and community spirit to the meal. The church often organizes these events in a way that encourages participation and connection, allowing families to enjoy the day together while celebrating the season.

When preparing for such an Easter picnic, packing coolers for drinks is a must. Given that Easter often falls during the early days of spring, the weather can vary, but it’s usually warm enough to enjoy cold beverages outdoors. A cooler can help keep drinks like water, sodas, iced tea, and lemonade cool and refreshing throughout the event. Depending on the size of the gathering, it’s best to bring a cooler that has sufficient capacity for drinks, as well as space for ice packs to maintain a chilled temperature. It’s also helpful to bring a few extra coolers if you’re contributing food, as this provides additional storage for salads, desserts, and other perishable items.

Bring A Dish Or A Cooler Of Drinks

When it comes to selecting the right cooler for an Easter picnic at a chapel or church, it’s essential to choose one that is durable, easy to transport, and capable of maintaining the cold for several hours. Many people opt for hard-sided coolers, as they tend to offer superior ice retention. According to the review site, Coolers On Sale, brands like YETI, Pelican, and Lifetime coolers are popular for their sturdiness and performance. However, there are many affordable options on the market that also provide great value. For example, coolers on sale from websites like CoolerShop.com or Walmart offer a range of sizes and features, from compact personal coolers to larger, family-sized models with built-in wheels for easy transport.

Lifetime coolers, in particular, are an excellent choice for a spring picnic. Known for their rugged construction and impressive ice retention capabilities, Lifetime coolers come in various sizes, making them versatile for different needs. They are often more affordable compared to high-end brands like YETI, without compromising on quality. Many Lifetime coolers also come with a UV-resistant exterior, ensuring that they stand up to the sun and outdoor conditions without fading or cracking.

Choosing the right cooler for your Easter picnic ensures that everyone stays hydrated and enjoys fresh food throughout the day. By packing carefully and planning ahead, you can help make your church or chapel Easter event a memorable one, kicking off the spring season with fun, food, and fellowship.

Spring Cleaning And Landscaping Refresh At The Chapel

As spring approaches, the community comes together for the annual spring cleaning and landscaping of the chapel and its grounds, ensuring the space is beautiful and welcoming for the Easter season. This tradition not only enhances the chapel’s exterior but fosters a strong sense of unity and pride within the congregation. Volunteers from all age groups and backgrounds gather to scrub, sweep, and tidy up the chapel, transforming it into a fresh and vibrant setting that reflects the renewal and hope of spring. The effort extends beyond just cleaning—there is a focused initiative to improve the landscaping by planting seasonal flowers, shrubs, and trees, which will provide a stunning backdrop for the upcoming Easter services.

Spring Landscaping Project

As part of this landscaping project, popular plants are chosen for their aesthetic appeal and their ability to thrive in the region’s climate. One of the top picks for adding year-round beauty and privacy to the chapel grounds is the emerald green privacy hedge, a hardy evergreen shrub known for its narrow, dense growth. Its lush, deep green foliage provides a beautiful natural barrier, making it ideal for privacy screening along the chapel’s perimeter. These evergreen hedges also add an elegant and refined touch, creating a serene, peaceful environment while acting as a sound buffer for outdoor gatherings.

In addition to Emerald Green Arborvitae, several other plants and shrubs are selected for their vibrant colors and seasonal blooms. Early spring favorites like crocuses, daffodils, and tulips are often planted in flower beds near the entrance to greet visitors with their cheerful colors. These flowers signify new beginnings and renewal, fitting perfectly with the Easter theme. The bright yellow and white daffodils, along with the multicolored tulips, create a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who approach the chapel.

Community Effort

For a longer-lasting visual appeal, community members also focus on planting low-maintenance perennials, such as lavender, daylilies, and hostas. Lavender not only provides a soothing fragrance, but its soft purple flowers add a gentle touch of color to the landscape, making it a beloved choice for the chapel’s gardens. Daylilies are another perennial favorite because of their hardiness and ability to bloom throughout the season. Their bright, bold blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and red provide an eye-catching display. Hostas, with their lush green foliage, are perfect for adding texture to shaded areas and offering a contrast to the brighter flowers.

In addition to flowers, shrubs like hydrangeas and boxwoods are planted to create layers of interest and texture within the landscape. Hydrangeas are popular for their large, showy flowers that bloom in spring and summer, adding bursts of blue, pink, and white to the garden. Boxwoods, on the other hand, provide a classic, timeless look with their neat, rounded shape, and they serve as excellent hedging plants for creating structure and definition in the garden.

Together, these efforts make the chapel’s grounds a beautiful reflection of spring’s renewal. The community’s hard work not only beautifies the space but creates a sacred environment where congregants can gather in peace, reflect on the meaning of Easter, and enjoy the serene beauty of nature surrounding them. As the chapel grounds flourish, it stands as a symbol of the collective effort and shared faith of all those who came together to make it a special place for all to enjoy.

A Table to Feed All

Jesus and riversMany faith gatherings happen in the church and it may be before services or after services on Sunday. It may also be at other times throughout the week and on special occasions. Most of these events end up being pot luck dinners where everyone is invited to attend, sit together, and revel in the joy of their faith among friends. It is a beautiful thing. Coming together in this way. However, it does pose a complication. The church must have a table to feed all who are willing and able to attend these celebrations.

Sharing God’s Love Among Friends

large river tablesPot luck dinners at church serve as a way to strengthen the bonds that can hold a congregation together. However, it also serves to show them that God’s love is there, even when the pastor isn’t talking about Him. These dinners serve as a way to celebrate, rejoice, and come together in every way that matters at that moment. It would defeat the purpose if the church was unable to accommodate all who want to attend. This requires space and often custom made tables that are able to seat not only members, but non-members and of course, plenty of tasty treats.

Is Your Church Table Large Enough?

church gathering in celebration

Your church table should be large enough to give each person there a comfortable space to sit. They will need elbow room. In some cases, you may need to have multiple large tables to accommodate everyone. Either way, a custom table may be something that you should consider before your next church event.

One fantastic idea is to create an epoxy river table or have one custom-built for your congregation. The reason for this is throughout the bible, there is mention of rivers in several areas. This will further strengthen the bonds that you are trying to create within the group and with your faith.

This is further proven by two verses. One, Ezekiel 47:9 states, “And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes.” and Zechariah 14:8, “On that day living waters shall flow out from Jerusalem, half of them to the eastern sea and half of them to the western sea. It shall continue in summer as in winter.”

Can you think of any better way to ensure that Jesus and faith are present during your next church buffet?

Enjoy All You Have in Your Church and Life

Keeping Jesus alive and faith in our hearts is a big part of what churches do for us. The end result is that we should enjoy all that we have in our lives and in our church. This can most easily be done if we come together in celebration of the Lord and all that he provides to us. In Jerusalem, the river was important enough to be mentioned in the Bible. Shouldn’t it also be a part of your life? Your church? Your relationships?

Comfortable Chapel Nursery

inside the chapelNurseries and churches are two institutions that go hand in hand. Parents depend on their church or their congregation. To have parents that are able to attend, chapels need to be prepared for all types of situations. This means having a comfortable chapel nursery where parents feel comfortable sending their kids during sermons.

Why the Nursery is Important

nursery at churchIn a chapel, nurseries are a vitally important part of keeping parents and grandparents in the church. Parents and grandparents won’t attend a service if they worry that their baby may start to cry in the middle of it. They do not want to risk interrupting the service for others in the church. It wouldn’t be considered “polite” to have a baby scream during prayer. Therefore, the easiest thing to do is make it so the babies have a special spot where they can giggle, gurgle, and cry if they need to. The key to further success is to ensure that the small children and babies who use the nursery are kept comfortable so that mom and dad feel good about their choice to leave them there.

It’s a Baby’s Life

chapel nurseryIn the daycare or nursery of a church, you will find a variety of things for babies and toddlers. For newborns and infants, there may be refrigerators for formula, bottle warmers, changing stations for dirty diapers, an endless supply of wipes and extra diapers in case there isn’t some in the diaper bag. These comfort items are necessary to take care of the baby during a sermon. Another area of the nursery may be set up with a circle baby bed for sleepy little ones. These round cribs are very comfortable and may even be large enough to have two babies sleep together if they are still young. This is especially helpful for very young twins.

As a baby becomes a toddler, there will often be another area where they can play with safe toys, color, finger paint, or do other things that older babies can do. They also learn valuable social skills while they are here. In some cases, they will also begin learning about Jesus and singing songs about him, which will prepare them for a Sunday school later on.

Parents and Grandparents Rejoice

The church is a place that should make you feel at peace. The stress of the world should be left at the door. When you are here, you are here to build a stronger community. To learn. To rejoice. To simply be a part of something bigger than you. It does not matter where you are in the world. You can attend a large church or a small chapel. Either way, your kids will be taken care of while you relax in the pews. Enjoy it to the fullest!

Super Sunday School

sunday schoolWhen you faithfully attend church every Sunday, you likely want your children involved. However, not many parents want to have some wiggly toddler sitting next to them during prayer time. This is where Sunday school comes in. It is a separate section of the church, a room or a group of rooms, where children of all ages can go to sit, learn, and play. The value of it as a place to learn should never be underestimated. In fact, we prove that kids can be a part of a Super Sunday School!

What Are Sunday Schools?

sunday school craftsThe first Sunday schools were started in the 1780s in England. The purpose of them at this time was to provide a place for working children to go to learn. Today, things are a little different. It is more an extension of the church. A place where kids can learn about God, Jesus, and so much more depending on their faith. Parents can be listening to the sermon and their children can be safely learning and playing with kids that are about their age.

Is Sunday School a Learning School or a Nursery?

playing at sunday schoolsSunday school fits a lot of needs for the students who come to it. Young infants and toddlers may have the opportunity to play with kids in their age group. This can build valuable social skills. They may learn to share, be helpful, and love God. They may learn simple lessons about him or do crafts that show how much they are loved by God.

Preschool-aged children and school-aged children may learn more. They could learn more valuable lessons about God. They may write, draw, and practice their school subjects while learning. Some kids may even learn how to spell well Montessori, which is fantastic for all young kids. Sunday schools can encourage learning in all types of different ways from religious to school subjects that have nothing to do with Christianity.

The Most Important Lessons Learned

If your church does not have a designated Sunday school program, you should consider trying to get one started. These classrooms go well beyond anything that your child can learn in a daycare or in a traditional school. They teach love, respect, fun, and socialization, but they also prove to your child that God is everywhere. That they are loved unconditionally by Him. That through Him, they can do all things.

Children are all God’s creatures. It does not matter what faith you have, this is an undeniable fact. Sunday schools can help your child see it and feel it. From that, their faith will become as strong as yours and you can feel confident that they are on the right path as they grow.

Alternative Venues For Chapels

prayer outside of the churchSome people religiously visit a church each Sunday to catch the services. They feel that it is the right way to show their faith. However, this is not true. Faith spreads across all venues. You can be outside of the church and still show the full extent of your faith. Have you explored the alternative venues for chapels?

Embrace the World Outside of Church

outdoor church picnic daysWhen it comes to prayer or giving thanks to God, you will enjoy getting out of the church. Many churches and chapels, even, embrace taking sermons outside of the church. This may come in the form of a picnic or a day spent at a local park. It may be visiting a horse park and riding as a group to some secluded spot in the woods. They know that a chapel isn’t the only, place to worship all that God and Jesus have provided to the world. It isn’t even the best.

Events Showing Faith

prayer at events

Think about every event that you have ever attended. Whether you are at a baseball game, rodeo event, or small-town racetrack, a prayer is said before you actually watch the event. This turns every event into a church, of sorts. It may not be a traditional setting, but this does not matter. The point is that everyone listens to the words and takes something away from it. It gives the drivers, bull riders, and game players a blessing. It also gives the spectators one as a thank you for traveling to the venue.
This should make it easy for you to take pleasure in prayer and sermons wherever you are. A Lucas drag boat series or an ancient cathedral. It all holds the same value. It all matters and it can all bring you closer to others.

The Joy of Meeting New Christians

Whoever said, “once upon a time” that you needed to meet in a church and celebrate God’s gifts from behind closed doors was mistaken. They didn’t know or see that God is everywhere. He is within the people. He lives in the trees, the grass, the wind on your face. Not only in the structures that we build to house Him.
When you step outside of the church you have spent your life attending, you have the chance to meet new people. They may share the same beliefs as you, but they may also have unique thoughts that will encourage you to discover more of your faith. It will broaden your mind and maybe enlighten you. This could be one of the greatest things you have ever experienced. Can you think of a reason to not step outside of the box and discover what is there?